Palmer chuckled and shook his head at his friend’s extremely immodest statement, shaking his head, but kept quiet while the three made arrangements to examine Thaddeus’s gloves.
It was a little strange looking, the three of them standing in a circle like they were about to summon a demon or something, in the middle of a church no less, and he still couldn’t get over the fact that Thaddeus was allowing someone to put his arm around him. He shot Christian a raised eyebrow before turning back to the sensing trio. The psychometric trio.
Could be a good band name. Or a bad joke. Three psychometrists walk into a bar, and the bar says ‘ouch, what’d you do that for?’
Schooling himself to pay attention just in case someone lost their head or something, he listened as Theodosia began muttering. That was pretty cool; the girl managed to sound quite a bit like Thaddeus. He grew concerned, though, when Thaddeus went a few shades lighter than his already pale skin and stepped back, clumsily for him. He moved to his feet, ready to give a hand if needed, but it seemed Alfarinn had him just fine and the blonde was coming around again.
He remained standing as Theodosia walked past him to sit down, still concerned his friend would tip over at any moment, but he gave the Evenhet a smile in passing.
“You certainly were. Quite a show you put on, with the voices and everything. Very impressive…”
He gave Thaddeus another look, frowning, but the blonde seemed to be recovering acceptably well and, typical nightsman, was likely brewing over the new information.
Theodosia really had done a good impersonation of Thaddeus, and he found himself focusing on the things his friend had said over the last few months. He wondered how Thaddeus felt about some obviously personal remarks being spoken in front of others and hoped it wasn’t a cause for too much discomfort. Most of it was nothing clear, and what was left was nothing new, save the comment about the cost of his existence.
He’d really had no clue Thaddeus felt that way.
Then, of course, there were the different voices at the end, which he would agree were quite disturbing. If a little girl could send shivers up his spine with that statement he could only imagine what the real thing must have been like. And if it wasn’t clear before, Palmer was all the more certain that Thaddeus needed him here, whether the nightsman could admit it or not. After all, someone still wanted the little guy dead. He nearly smirked at that thought, knowing even in the midst of all of this that ‘little one’ comment would grate something fierce.
“Just looking at you makes me want to sit down. Think off your feet, Thaddeus, you look like hell.”
Forgive us our trespasses(private)
Christian nodded to the priest as he passed through into the main hall of the church. He liked churches and always felt a peace in them. Once he stepped inside, especially in the older ones, there was a sense of being out of time and space. You could be anywhere in the world or no where and it did not matter. It was one of the few places he could relax though the current events did little to put his mind at ease.
Humans had died and though it was an unlikely possibility some of his clanmates could have met their end in the flames. It had not happened but it -could- have happened and that was enough to put him on edge.
Alfarinn mentioned on the way to the church that he and Thaddeus intended on buying the place and living there. This did not sit well either, how could they protect their elder if he was spending so much time away from the Towers? He knew the man was capable of taking care of himself and if he were just any other vampire Christian would not be concerned for his safety but Alfarinn was a bigger target than it seemed the blonde sometimes realized. Certainly the man understood that many of the Anantya and almost all of the Tacharan would not be opposed to one of the Elders of Evenhet going up in flames? They might even be persuaded to help. That did not even touch on the clanless that had many who wanted to see any of the established clans fall out of pure spite, so it seemed.
This Thaddeus was Anantya. What should he make of that? Other than his elder had completely lost all of his sanity. His empathy told him they had feelings for each other. That is when he could sense anything from Alfarinn and the man was not closed off like a blank slate. It did not take an empath to read his leader's expression, however, and the fact that the feeling was returned by the Anantya was the only thing that kept him from physically trying to shake some sense into the Norseman.
He turned to the two men and raised his hands palms up in question. Well?
Palmer
18 years ago
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Nodding to Palmer, Christian watched the scene in front of him as the three began to sense the objects. He could monitor their well being through his own senses and have a fairly accurate idea of what kind of information they were getting from the colours in their auras.
With him concentrating so hard on his psychometry, Alfarinn was less guarded emotionally and mentally. He could watch his elder's feelings clearly as they changed from respect to amusement to love and then anger and protectiveness.
It was interesting watching the the colours of the auras in front of him accompanied with Theo's words. It added sense to them in a way that created a whole picture even for someone without psychometry.
He wondered briefly who Thaddeus wanted to go to and if Alfarinn was the one who stopped him. It relieved him to know they had spent time discussing their strategy and did not simply charge in blindly. With this thought Christian found himself frowning absently at his elder who seemed to make a habit of jumping into things where those he cared about were concerned.
The voice inflection changed and Christian sat up straighter, if such a thing were possible. He was a very good mimic much like Theo and for him that skill came through observation. He tried to place the accent with which she now spoke and found it mixed. It sounded educated but with so few words spoken it was difficult to truly tell.
The next voice was harsh and he wondered how Theo managed to do so well with it being as small as she was. The words though immediately caught his attention. There was no mistaking who the tall one was out of the pair in front of him. If he had not believed Alfarinn was risking his life in this venture of his, he would have now. Alfarinn had said they had faced Lykaios and that he was now dead. He was the one with the gloves.
But this was not finished and he did not know who else was involved.
He had been musing but looked up as Theo sat down next to him. He noticed she was the one -with- the gloves. There were likely far too many prints on them now to try and find any of the unknown individuals and if they were correct in believing that it was an Anantya then they had a limited database on file. Evenhet had gone out of its way to record the fingerprints of known Anantya from social functions and other meetings. A wine glass here, a plate there, a vase. It was a tedious and ongoing process and if the person guilty in this situation were not a well known Anantya or not in Nachton in the recent past then they would have been out of luck in any case.
He raised his eyebrows slightly at Palmer's comments and then turned to the blonde pair standing in front of him.
"It would probably be for the best unless you are one of those who finds pacing a creative stimulus."Â?
Raising his eyes to Alfarinn, the barest of smiles played at the corners of his mouth before he leaned back in the pew and waited for them to explain what they saw. From the rare glimpse into the emotions of the Norwegian it appeared Thaddeus was going to be around for a long time. It was probably a good idea to get to know him.
With him concentrating so hard on his psychometry, Alfarinn was less guarded emotionally and mentally. He could watch his elder's feelings clearly as they changed from respect to amusement to love and then anger and protectiveness.
It was interesting watching the the colours of the auras in front of him accompanied with Theo's words. It added sense to them in a way that created a whole picture even for someone without psychometry.
He wondered briefly who Thaddeus wanted to go to and if Alfarinn was the one who stopped him. It relieved him to know they had spent time discussing their strategy and did not simply charge in blindly. With this thought Christian found himself frowning absently at his elder who seemed to make a habit of jumping into things where those he cared about were concerned.
The voice inflection changed and Christian sat up straighter, if such a thing were possible. He was a very good mimic much like Theo and for him that skill came through observation. He tried to place the accent with which she now spoke and found it mixed. It sounded educated but with so few words spoken it was difficult to truly tell.
The next voice was harsh and he wondered how Theo managed to do so well with it being as small as she was. The words though immediately caught his attention. There was no mistaking who the tall one was out of the pair in front of him. If he had not believed Alfarinn was risking his life in this venture of his, he would have now. Alfarinn had said they had faced Lykaios and that he was now dead. He was the one with the gloves.
But this was not finished and he did not know who else was involved.
He had been musing but looked up as Theo sat down next to him. He noticed she was the one -with- the gloves. There were likely far too many prints on them now to try and find any of the unknown individuals and if they were correct in believing that it was an Anantya then they had a limited database on file. Evenhet had gone out of its way to record the fingerprints of known Anantya from social functions and other meetings. A wine glass here, a plate there, a vase. It was a tedious and ongoing process and if the person guilty in this situation were not a well known Anantya or not in Nachton in the recent past then they would have been out of luck in any case.
He raised his eyebrows slightly at Palmer's comments and then turned to the blonde pair standing in front of him.
"It would probably be for the best unless you are one of those who finds pacing a creative stimulus."Â?
Raising his eyes to Alfarinn, the barest of smiles played at the corners of his mouth before he leaned back in the pew and waited for them to explain what they saw. From the rare glimpse into the emotions of the Norwegian it appeared Thaddeus was going to be around for a long time. It was probably a good idea to get to know him.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn held Thaddeus closer to him when his companion swayed. He slid his arm down around Thaddeus's back to give him support, finding comfort in the gesture himself. They had some idea, from going through Lykaios's home, of what they would sense but this was more personal and sinister.
The apartment they had searched held the every day trappings of a heartless killer and that was unpleasant enough but these gloves belonged to Thaddeus; they held good memories and had been an intimate part of his companion's wardrobe. Perhaps it was odd to think of gloves in such a way but he felt it was so. Thaddeus wore them everywhere when they were out, he would no sooner walk out without his gloves than he would a shirt or pair of pants. So when his partner walked into the apartment and slowly removed the gloves from his hands, it was a private matter, intimate and even sensual. These people who taken his lover's gloves had violated that and it disturbed him in some ways more than the very obvious threats on their lives.
Hearing Lykaios's unmistakable inflection from Theo's voice was unnerving even though it was something he had been personally prepared for. He knew the voice and knew how her abilities worked but still, there was a difference between knowing a thing and taking part in it.
The real question was could they learn anything useful from this or did it only serve to prove to the few others in the room that this situation was very real and very dangerous. From the tiniest glimpse of expression he had seen from Cris, Alfarinn could gather that there was little doubt about the gravity of the matter as far as the Security Cheif was concerned.
He had a feeling he was going to have a five foot six blonde shadow. Alfarinn chuckled to himself, they would look like quite the trio, him following Thaddeus about and Crispin following after him. If he were not mistaken though he wouldn't be the only person tailing Thaddeus around Nachton. Palmer seemed very protective of his friend. It was was very reassuring and Alfarinn also found the man very likable in his own right.
Turning to Theo, he caught her words and tone and smiled at her.
"You were remarkable. It was disturbing but that does not imply you were less than amazing, quite the opposite. It was very accurate, Theo, Thank you."Â?
Seeing Cris's slight grin and the veiled remark about his own pacing habits, Alfarinn thought it would be best to be seated before he gave himself away. Palmer looked as though he would be happier with Thaddeus taking a seat as well so Alfarinn slid into a pew in front of his clanmates and reached out a hand for Thaddeus. They would have to turn to converse with the others but that was not uncomfortable for the short term that they were likely to be here.
The apartment they had searched held the every day trappings of a heartless killer and that was unpleasant enough but these gloves belonged to Thaddeus; they held good memories and had been an intimate part of his companion's wardrobe. Perhaps it was odd to think of gloves in such a way but he felt it was so. Thaddeus wore them everywhere when they were out, he would no sooner walk out without his gloves than he would a shirt or pair of pants. So when his partner walked into the apartment and slowly removed the gloves from his hands, it was a private matter, intimate and even sensual. These people who taken his lover's gloves had violated that and it disturbed him in some ways more than the very obvious threats on their lives.
Hearing Lykaios's unmistakable inflection from Theo's voice was unnerving even though it was something he had been personally prepared for. He knew the voice and knew how her abilities worked but still, there was a difference between knowing a thing and taking part in it.
The real question was could they learn anything useful from this or did it only serve to prove to the few others in the room that this situation was very real and very dangerous. From the tiniest glimpse of expression he had seen from Cris, Alfarinn could gather that there was little doubt about the gravity of the matter as far as the Security Cheif was concerned.
He had a feeling he was going to have a five foot six blonde shadow. Alfarinn chuckled to himself, they would look like quite the trio, him following Thaddeus about and Crispin following after him. If he were not mistaken though he wouldn't be the only person tailing Thaddeus around Nachton. Palmer seemed very protective of his friend. It was was very reassuring and Alfarinn also found the man very likable in his own right.
Turning to Theo, he caught her words and tone and smiled at her.
"You were remarkable. It was disturbing but that does not imply you were less than amazing, quite the opposite. It was very accurate, Theo, Thank you."Â?
Seeing Cris's slight grin and the veiled remark about his own pacing habits, Alfarinn thought it would be best to be seated before he gave himself away. Palmer looked as though he would be happier with Thaddeus taking a seat as well so Alfarinn slid into a pew in front of his clanmates and reached out a hand for Thaddeus. They would have to turn to converse with the others but that was not uncomfortable for the short term that they were likely to be here.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus leaned gratefully into Alfarinn, though he focused on regaining his own balance enough to stand without feeling vaguely awful. Palmer didn’t appear to be fooled in the least and practically ordered him to sit down, and once he gave his friend a rather insulted glare, he did just that.
He did –not- look like hell. On his worst day he –still- looked good and he personally felt that Palmer could stick that in his pipe and smoke it. Christian’s comment mellowed him some, however; it would seem the security chief had him pegged, though at the moment he honestly wasn’t feeling much like walking about. Still, it was somewhat amusing.
He realized as Alfarinn brought them both to a pew that he had apparently said the wrong thing to Theodosia, though he wasn’t quite sure of how to repair his offense other than to perhaps try to be a little more optimistic. Given what they had just heard that seemed a touch unreasonable to expect but they were in this pretty deep and he didn’t see why not. He closed his eyes for a moment, gathering his thoughts and leaving the last of the aftereffects of sensing behind him.
“I don’t believe there’s anything we need to hear again. Thank you though.” While it was a touch uncomfortable to think out loud under the circumstances, especially as he was falling into the habit of exchanging thoughts mind to mind with Alfarinn, he thought for Palmer’s sake at the very least he should voice what was on his mind. If Christian and Theodosia thought he was an idiot he supposed he could deal with that at a better time. He turned to face the group, angling himself closer to Alfarinn.
“We’ve learned a little from this. While we’ve been seen in public after our confrontation with Lykaios, only a small handful of people knew that we would be together beforehand.” He frowned at that thought. “I realize word can travel but I just don’t think there would have been time to hear the news, formulate a plan, and carry it out if they didn’t get the information first hand or very close to it. Unless someone is acting as a consistent informant.” He shrugged lightly. “I suppose I could be wrong but I tend to feel this narrows down the scope.”
His thoughts continued on but he had reached the limit of what he was comfortable speaking about and trailed off, sending to Alfarinn instead.
[I’m not by any means ignoring the person who knew the most.] He looked up at the ceiling for a moment, then over at Alfarinn. [I just don’t want you to think I’m going to faint dead away if you mention Sorin.]
He gave a light smile to soften the statement and turned to the rest of the group once more.
“I suppose we keep going.”
He did –not- look like hell. On his worst day he –still- looked good and he personally felt that Palmer could stick that in his pipe and smoke it. Christian’s comment mellowed him some, however; it would seem the security chief had him pegged, though at the moment he honestly wasn’t feeling much like walking about. Still, it was somewhat amusing.
He realized as Alfarinn brought them both to a pew that he had apparently said the wrong thing to Theodosia, though he wasn’t quite sure of how to repair his offense other than to perhaps try to be a little more optimistic. Given what they had just heard that seemed a touch unreasonable to expect but they were in this pretty deep and he didn’t see why not. He closed his eyes for a moment, gathering his thoughts and leaving the last of the aftereffects of sensing behind him.
“I don’t believe there’s anything we need to hear again. Thank you though.” While it was a touch uncomfortable to think out loud under the circumstances, especially as he was falling into the habit of exchanging thoughts mind to mind with Alfarinn, he thought for Palmer’s sake at the very least he should voice what was on his mind. If Christian and Theodosia thought he was an idiot he supposed he could deal with that at a better time. He turned to face the group, angling himself closer to Alfarinn.
“We’ve learned a little from this. While we’ve been seen in public after our confrontation with Lykaios, only a small handful of people knew that we would be together beforehand.” He frowned at that thought. “I realize word can travel but I just don’t think there would have been time to hear the news, formulate a plan, and carry it out if they didn’t get the information first hand or very close to it. Unless someone is acting as a consistent informant.” He shrugged lightly. “I suppose I could be wrong but I tend to feel this narrows down the scope.”
His thoughts continued on but he had reached the limit of what he was comfortable speaking about and trailed off, sending to Alfarinn instead.
[I’m not by any means ignoring the person who knew the most.] He looked up at the ceiling for a moment, then over at Alfarinn. [I just don’t want you to think I’m going to faint dead away if you mention Sorin.]
He gave a light smile to soften the statement and turned to the rest of the group once more.
“I suppose we keep going.”
Palmer
18 years ago
Palmer looked down and gave a smirk at Christian’s comment about pacing, remembering back to a conversation he had with Thaddeus in a hotel lobby in Charleston. He’d finally told his clanmate to stand still and –look- at him when speaking. Thaddeus seemed genuinely contrite but within minutes he was pacing again.
Now his friend looked so offended by the comment about his appearance that it was almost funny. He considered amending his statement but decided anything he said on the subject would carry that trace of amusement. Not exactly the way to sound sincere.
When Alfarinn guided Thaddeus over to a bench, Palmer could hardly help but smile a little. You think you know a guy…Thaddeus was certainly full of surprises. While the nightsman wasn’t exactly climbing all over the Evenhet, they were genuinely affectionate together. That probably did his friend some good. Once seated Thaddeus seemed a bit more himself and Palmer wondered just how carefully he was choosing his words. There were doubtless parts of this tale the nightsman didn’t want to tell but whether it was important or merely private remained to be seen.
He sighed a little when Thaddeus explained a little about where they were; he understood that they had to continue on but something about his friend’s outlook worried him. It took him a moment to place his concern but when he did he pointed one finger at his friend.
“You say things like that right after hearing about….who gets to kill who and ripping out throats….” He ran his hand over his head. “You can’t just...just because you’re smart, just because you know a little more than you did before…people can still hurt you, it worries me when you talk like that.”
He knew he was ranting and supposed that was his version of pacing around the room. However, if he knew Thaddeus at all, he knew his friend was trying to think right now and was likely oblivious to everything else anyway. That’s why he needed Palmer; to keep him from wandering into open pits of fire like that woman at the ball. Thaddeus was intelligent and observant, but he could also be too single minded, too stubborn to take proper care for himself.
It was hard to imagine someone genuinely wanting Thaddeus dead; not just put out of the way for knowing too much, but honest to god wanting him dead. That didn’t mean it wasn’t so, though, and bright as his clanmate was, he tended to think everything could be fixed if he had just a little more information.
“Does Mai know what you’ve been up to?”
Palmer could see Thaddeus keeping this information from the Elder for the sake of not wanting to be a bother or out of some protective instinct, but he hoped for otherwise.
Now his friend looked so offended by the comment about his appearance that it was almost funny. He considered amending his statement but decided anything he said on the subject would carry that trace of amusement. Not exactly the way to sound sincere.
When Alfarinn guided Thaddeus over to a bench, Palmer could hardly help but smile a little. You think you know a guy…Thaddeus was certainly full of surprises. While the nightsman wasn’t exactly climbing all over the Evenhet, they were genuinely affectionate together. That probably did his friend some good. Once seated Thaddeus seemed a bit more himself and Palmer wondered just how carefully he was choosing his words. There were doubtless parts of this tale the nightsman didn’t want to tell but whether it was important or merely private remained to be seen.
He sighed a little when Thaddeus explained a little about where they were; he understood that they had to continue on but something about his friend’s outlook worried him. It took him a moment to place his concern but when he did he pointed one finger at his friend.
“You say things like that right after hearing about….who gets to kill who and ripping out throats….” He ran his hand over his head. “You can’t just...just because you’re smart, just because you know a little more than you did before…people can still hurt you, it worries me when you talk like that.”
He knew he was ranting and supposed that was his version of pacing around the room. However, if he knew Thaddeus at all, he knew his friend was trying to think right now and was likely oblivious to everything else anyway. That’s why he needed Palmer; to keep him from wandering into open pits of fire like that woman at the ball. Thaddeus was intelligent and observant, but he could also be too single minded, too stubborn to take proper care for himself.
It was hard to imagine someone genuinely wanting Thaddeus dead; not just put out of the way for knowing too much, but honest to god wanting him dead. That didn’t mean it wasn’t so, though, and bright as his clanmate was, he tended to think everything could be fixed if he had just a little more information.
“Does Mai know what you’ve been up to?”
Palmer could see Thaddeus keeping this information from the Elder for the sake of not wanting to be a bother or out of some protective instinct, but he hoped for otherwise.
Theodosia
18 years ago
Theo gave a slightly mollified shrug and grinned at Palmer, thinking perhaps he’d like to hear more, but it seemed no one did. Oh well. The Anantya was agitated, the voices could tell her that much without even trying. Perhaps another time.
Paul was once again listening more closely than she was as the men continued talking, though she perked up a little when Thaddeus mentioned continuing on. Maybe they wanted her to look at something else? Perhaps they could ask more directly; otherwise her headache might just be too much to bear. Tonight had been upsetting and she was perhaps getting to the end of her rope, but then an idea occurred to her.
Very quietly, she stretched out on the pew, keeping her head below the arm rest on one side. She was willing to bet the men were too distracted to remember she was there for long, and maybe soon they would leave and she would get to sleep in a church. Paul expressed some measure of doubt for this plan but she thought it was a good one.
Paul was once again listening more closely than she was as the men continued talking, though she perked up a little when Thaddeus mentioned continuing on. Maybe they wanted her to look at something else? Perhaps they could ask more directly; otherwise her headache might just be too much to bear. Tonight had been upsetting and she was perhaps getting to the end of her rope, but then an idea occurred to her.
Very quietly, she stretched out on the pew, keeping her head below the arm rest on one side. She was willing to bet the men were too distracted to remember she was there for long, and maybe soon they would leave and she would get to sleep in a church. Paul expressed some measure of doubt for this plan but she thought it was a good one.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
With Thaddeus seated next to him, Alfarinn felt he was better able to concentrate on figuring out the information the gloves might have told them. Odd as that might seem, he supposed a part of him needed to know his partner was close in order to leave his mind free to wander. He placed his hand in Thaddeus's lap, collecting his companion's hand in his own.
A glance at Theo made him grin; they should let her sleep. He could pick her up and carry her to the limo later. She seemed worn out from the evening's events.
Turning back to the others, he said.
“From the images I saw one of the sets of hands that picked up the gloves appeared older. Most vampires seem to be turned in the prime of their lives or younger.”
At this he smiled briefly at his equally youthful appearing partner before continuing.
“How many older vampires in Anantya could there be? It is possible that it was human but still that would narrow it down to your few humans in the Manor. They were picked up from the library.”
Alfarinn frowned at the additional information that Thaddeus pointed out.
[Sorin is not old but there were two sets of hands. Could we have another accomplice?]
He explained for the others his thoughts as well. [/i]
“The older set of hands handed them to a younger pair. This pair is the one that handed them to Lykaios and the one who knew we were together. Both sets appeared male, though I admit sometimes that is hard to tell.”
Sighing inwardly, he brushed his thumb gently across the inside of Thaddeus's palm.
[I think we have no choice but to give them the information we have. It is for the best that they are as prepared as we can make them.]
He would trust Palmer because Thaddeus trusted him. His companion had done so with his own clanmates several times now and he felt confident in doing the same.
“Thaddeus is right in being optimistic, I think this does narrow things down. The people who knew that we were together at this time that I can remember and who are male would be Artemis, Simon of the Tacharan, Sorin, Talon, I believe his name was and Rupert might have deduced such a thing as well. Can you think of any others?”
That narrowed their list of suspects down considerably especially if you took out Rupert who would not have been around at the time of Emma's death and had no reason to have a stake in their lives and Artemis and Simon both of whom he knew and trusted. He felt that he could not afford not to mention them if he were being fair and he wanted to do his best to be objective since Thaddeus was trying so hard to be as well.
“Are there those among that bunch that we can rule out completely? Someone inside Anantya could have brought the gloves to those on the list outside of them. I will add that Artemis's creator is Anantya and like me, he was once one himself. I am not certain why he would need the gloves however; we asked for his aid earlier and he gave us tracking devices for our purposes. That being the case he could have easily designed it to monitor us as well or even planted a new one. Oddly in this, I believe his expertise rules him out. Rupert is human and therefore not likely to have a motive unless he's working for someone else.”
He decided to stop there and go back to make sure that his reasons seemed sound to the others.
Looking up in surprise at Palmer's reaction to Thaddeus's decision to keep going, he couldn't help but smile a bit.
“Oh he can and he most likely will. The determination of a Grey is a difficult thing to cross so I've found. He'll not be alone though and I think all of us can manage to keep all of us safe. Or I'd hope so anyway.”
A glance at Theo made him grin; they should let her sleep. He could pick her up and carry her to the limo later. She seemed worn out from the evening's events.
Turning back to the others, he said.
“From the images I saw one of the sets of hands that picked up the gloves appeared older. Most vampires seem to be turned in the prime of their lives or younger.”
At this he smiled briefly at his equally youthful appearing partner before continuing.
“How many older vampires in Anantya could there be? It is possible that it was human but still that would narrow it down to your few humans in the Manor. They were picked up from the library.”
Alfarinn frowned at the additional information that Thaddeus pointed out.
[Sorin is not old but there were two sets of hands. Could we have another accomplice?]
He explained for the others his thoughts as well. [/i]
“The older set of hands handed them to a younger pair. This pair is the one that handed them to Lykaios and the one who knew we were together. Both sets appeared male, though I admit sometimes that is hard to tell.”
Sighing inwardly, he brushed his thumb gently across the inside of Thaddeus's palm.
[I think we have no choice but to give them the information we have. It is for the best that they are as prepared as we can make them.]
He would trust Palmer because Thaddeus trusted him. His companion had done so with his own clanmates several times now and he felt confident in doing the same.
“Thaddeus is right in being optimistic, I think this does narrow things down. The people who knew that we were together at this time that I can remember and who are male would be Artemis, Simon of the Tacharan, Sorin, Talon, I believe his name was and Rupert might have deduced such a thing as well. Can you think of any others?”
That narrowed their list of suspects down considerably especially if you took out Rupert who would not have been around at the time of Emma's death and had no reason to have a stake in their lives and Artemis and Simon both of whom he knew and trusted. He felt that he could not afford not to mention them if he were being fair and he wanted to do his best to be objective since Thaddeus was trying so hard to be as well.
“Are there those among that bunch that we can rule out completely? Someone inside Anantya could have brought the gloves to those on the list outside of them. I will add that Artemis's creator is Anantya and like me, he was once one himself. I am not certain why he would need the gloves however; we asked for his aid earlier and he gave us tracking devices for our purposes. That being the case he could have easily designed it to monitor us as well or even planted a new one. Oddly in this, I believe his expertise rules him out. Rupert is human and therefore not likely to have a motive unless he's working for someone else.”
He decided to stop there and go back to make sure that his reasons seemed sound to the others.
Looking up in surprise at Palmer's reaction to Thaddeus's decision to keep going, he couldn't help but smile a bit.
“Oh he can and he most likely will. The determination of a Grey is a difficult thing to cross so I've found. He'll not be alone though and I think all of us can manage to keep all of us safe. Or I'd hope so anyway.”
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian watched Theo lay down on the pew next to him. She was very forthright, and though unconventional in her mannerisms at times, he found her a very refreshing change from the intrigue that he dealt with constantly.
[Theo, You may rest your head in my lap if you like. I believe it is somewhat more comfortable than the wooden pew. I can wake you up if they need you again. Is that alright?]
He waited for her answer and then listened to the information that the other two pyschometrists gleaned from the gloves. Christian raised his eyebrows slightly when Alfarinn mentioned his best friend and cohort in many crimes but it was an objective view. To that end he added.
“Not necessarily. If this Lykaios demanded an object for his own purposes that would leave Artemis as a potential suspect. There are many of us who would prefer to rely on our own talents to accomplish a goal instead of having faith in another.”
He turned at Palmer's objection and thought the man had good sense. Was Thaddeus also the kind to go charging into something on his own? If that were the case then he was dubious about his abilities as a moderator to Alfarinn. However even two of a like mind was probably better than just one going into the unknown alone.
Nodding at Alfarinn's statement, he waited for the answer to Palmer's question before adding more.
((OOC: Permission granted to poke about in Theo's head ))
[Theo, You may rest your head in my lap if you like. I believe it is somewhat more comfortable than the wooden pew. I can wake you up if they need you again. Is that alright?]
He waited for her answer and then listened to the information that the other two pyschometrists gleaned from the gloves. Christian raised his eyebrows slightly when Alfarinn mentioned his best friend and cohort in many crimes but it was an objective view. To that end he added.
“Not necessarily. If this Lykaios demanded an object for his own purposes that would leave Artemis as a potential suspect. There are many of us who would prefer to rely on our own talents to accomplish a goal instead of having faith in another.”
He turned at Palmer's objection and thought the man had good sense. Was Thaddeus also the kind to go charging into something on his own? If that were the case then he was dubious about his abilities as a moderator to Alfarinn. However even two of a like mind was probably better than just one going into the unknown alone.
Nodding at Alfarinn's statement, he waited for the answer to Palmer's question before adding more.
((OOC: Permission granted to poke about in Theo's head ))
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus intertwined his fingers with Alfarinn’s and listened to his explanation, keeping quiet as he didn’t see anything he should add. Sighing inwardly at the thought of another accomplice, he sent:
[And the conspiracy grows.]
He tried not to squirm when Alfarinn started naming names, but in spite of being slightly uncomfortable he decided it was better to explain now. There was a part of him that simply didn’t want anyone to know the thoughts that were passing through their minds, that was deeply concerned they were very wrong, and these weren’t casual accusations they were making. Even contemplating that it could be Sorin was weighing on his conscience and having others know the direction of their thoughts was somewhat difficult. He had considered getting Palmer alone at some point to explain…but then he had every intention of writing his friend and that had never really happened either. Still, he was concerned about how the huntsman would take the news, perhaps even moreso than he was worried about Alfarinn’s clansmen knowing.
[You’re right, that is probably best.]
More to forestall any immediate objections, he went through the list of suspects, considering whether there was anything else to add and then evaluating each option.
“I don’t think Cyrus had an opportunity to see us together, though he was around that evening. I do agree that Artemis does not seem likely. Christian has a point and perhaps there might be a motivation effective enough to persuade him to conspire with a murderer if it were just myself involved, but once Alfarinn got involved that idea becomes less likely. I don’t, however, know much about his past in Anantya.”
He would admit he was still considering Artemis and would probably end up asking Alfarinn some uncomfortable questions, but that could wait until he’d given the matter a little more thought.
“Simon… I can’t begin to imagine that man’s agenda. To his credit, he did help us at no little personal risk. Or at least that’s one way of looking at the situation.
Simon was another theory he wouldn’t let go of just yet, though the scenario with him would have to be deeply convoluted. And then there was Sorin.
“Sorin may have had the most…insight.” Well, aside from Morrigan and Mai, but he sure as hell wasn’t about to say the Elder of the Rose had masculine hands and Mai was Mai. “This entire thing just seems so…malicious, and Sorin and I have always gotten on.” He rubbed absently on his chin, not looking at anyone in particular now. He realized he was understating matters when it came to Sorin but anything more really did seem too personal to discuss. He was half tempted to say that murdering someone’s creator and then cultivating a genuine, or at least very convincing friendship with said person, letting that last on for three hundred years, then plotting to kill them was just sick, too perverse for anyone to consider, but he doubted such sentiment would go over well and they had probably crossed the ‘too sick’ line some time ago.
“Talon I know more by good reputation than personal experience. He did arrive the same day the ring was found, however.”
That was all he could really say about Talon; they would need more information.
“It is possible Rupert picked up the gloves. Perhaps someone else on the staff; the sense I got was familiar, it may have been someone I’m…” he paused, recalling his earlier words “…used to. While I agree he may not be the accomplice…it is possible he is connected in some way. That he would give the gloves to anyone but myself is extremely odd in my opinion; the butler is discreet. He certainly would not have told anyone about us in passing; if he did, it was intentional. Handing over the gloves…well if it was him, that is at best odd behavior and at worst malicious.”
Feeling it was best to let Palmer speak his peace, he still could hardly help but smile a little when Alfarinn explained the Grey determination. Palmer already knew this of him but it was warming to be understood.
[Look at you, Mr. Grey.]
Even so, he had to sigh inwardly at his friend’s implications. Perhaps there was a time when he would risk life and limb for information with little regard for the consequences but the years had changed him since they had worked together. Sometimes he thought he might be a weaker Nightsman for his caution, in fact, but that was better than a dead Nightsman. Playing roulette might have seemed like a good idea in the past but he’d left that way of behaving behind quite some time ago.
“We’re in a crazy situation; that is what it is, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to do anything crazy in response.” He looked up at Alfarinn for a moment before continuing. “Up to this point we’ve done what we had to, as carefully as we possibly could and with not a little planning.”
He smiled in understanding at Palmer’s question, nodding his head.
“Yes, Mai knows.”
[And the conspiracy grows.]
He tried not to squirm when Alfarinn started naming names, but in spite of being slightly uncomfortable he decided it was better to explain now. There was a part of him that simply didn’t want anyone to know the thoughts that were passing through their minds, that was deeply concerned they were very wrong, and these weren’t casual accusations they were making. Even contemplating that it could be Sorin was weighing on his conscience and having others know the direction of their thoughts was somewhat difficult. He had considered getting Palmer alone at some point to explain…but then he had every intention of writing his friend and that had never really happened either. Still, he was concerned about how the huntsman would take the news, perhaps even moreso than he was worried about Alfarinn’s clansmen knowing.
[You’re right, that is probably best.]
More to forestall any immediate objections, he went through the list of suspects, considering whether there was anything else to add and then evaluating each option.
“I don’t think Cyrus had an opportunity to see us together, though he was around that evening. I do agree that Artemis does not seem likely. Christian has a point and perhaps there might be a motivation effective enough to persuade him to conspire with a murderer if it were just myself involved, but once Alfarinn got involved that idea becomes less likely. I don’t, however, know much about his past in Anantya.”
He would admit he was still considering Artemis and would probably end up asking Alfarinn some uncomfortable questions, but that could wait until he’d given the matter a little more thought.
“Simon… I can’t begin to imagine that man’s agenda. To his credit, he did help us at no little personal risk. Or at least that’s one way of looking at the situation.
Simon was another theory he wouldn’t let go of just yet, though the scenario with him would have to be deeply convoluted. And then there was Sorin.
“Sorin may have had the most…insight.” Well, aside from Morrigan and Mai, but he sure as hell wasn’t about to say the Elder of the Rose had masculine hands and Mai was Mai. “This entire thing just seems so…malicious, and Sorin and I have always gotten on.” He rubbed absently on his chin, not looking at anyone in particular now. He realized he was understating matters when it came to Sorin but anything more really did seem too personal to discuss. He was half tempted to say that murdering someone’s creator and then cultivating a genuine, or at least very convincing friendship with said person, letting that last on for three hundred years, then plotting to kill them was just sick, too perverse for anyone to consider, but he doubted such sentiment would go over well and they had probably crossed the ‘too sick’ line some time ago.
“Talon I know more by good reputation than personal experience. He did arrive the same day the ring was found, however.”
That was all he could really say about Talon; they would need more information.
“It is possible Rupert picked up the gloves. Perhaps someone else on the staff; the sense I got was familiar, it may have been someone I’m…” he paused, recalling his earlier words “…used to. While I agree he may not be the accomplice…it is possible he is connected in some way. That he would give the gloves to anyone but myself is extremely odd in my opinion; the butler is discreet. He certainly would not have told anyone about us in passing; if he did, it was intentional. Handing over the gloves…well if it was him, that is at best odd behavior and at worst malicious.”
Feeling it was best to let Palmer speak his peace, he still could hardly help but smile a little when Alfarinn explained the Grey determination. Palmer already knew this of him but it was warming to be understood.
[Look at you, Mr. Grey.]
Even so, he had to sigh inwardly at his friend’s implications. Perhaps there was a time when he would risk life and limb for information with little regard for the consequences but the years had changed him since they had worked together. Sometimes he thought he might be a weaker Nightsman for his caution, in fact, but that was better than a dead Nightsman. Playing roulette might have seemed like a good idea in the past but he’d left that way of behaving behind quite some time ago.
“We’re in a crazy situation; that is what it is, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to do anything crazy in response.” He looked up at Alfarinn for a moment before continuing. “Up to this point we’ve done what we had to, as carefully as we possibly could and with not a little planning.”
He smiled in understanding at Palmer’s question, nodding his head.
“Yes, Mai knows.”
Theodosia
18 years ago
Theo had closed her eyes and was mostly tuning out the chatter around her, finding she was getting quite comfortable. In spite of the turn of conversation simply being in a church was relaxing.
Then Christian sent to her and she realized she wasn’t being quite so sneaky as she thought. She might have known better anyway. His plan was a good one, though, and she signaled her agreement by scooting over and resting her head on Christian’s leg.
This was indeed much more comfortable, and her eyes dropped heavily as the voices began to blend into white noise.
Then Christian sent to her and she realized she wasn’t being quite so sneaky as she thought. She might have known better anyway. His plan was a good one, though, and she signaled her agreement by scooting over and resting her head on Christian’s leg.
This was indeed much more comfortable, and her eyes dropped heavily as the voices began to blend into white noise.
Palmer
18 years ago
Palmer rested his chin in his hands as Thaddeus and Alfarinn explained what they had seen and started running with threads of ideas. He was starting to feel slightly up to speed now and his sympathy for his friend only increased as he learned more about what they had been going through. Thaddeus, however, seemed to be wasting little time on feeling sorry for himself. Perhaps the boyfriend helped with that; this whole situation could be so demoralizing.
He indulged in a brief daydream in which Thaddeus's mood had something to do with him showing up, but didn't kid himself too much.
As usual when dealing with a lump sum of information, Palmer grew chatty while he processed.
"You know, I came -this- close to meeting Simon. Only there was the explosion and whatnot. Did get the opportunity to meet some Tacharans though, lovely bunch, quite charming really. I'm afraid I behaved like a complete cad though, leaving so abruptly..."Â?
Realizing he was doing what Thaddeus would call 'getting started, he considered the rest of the list and the lovebirds' analysis of each name. They were both taking this so...logically. That, to Palmer, was strange behavior, though he supposed it was typical nightsman to be calculating. Even so, it was somewhat shocking to so calmly make up a list that included names on both sides. He was particularly surprised that Thaddeus did not more ardently defend Sorin, but then that seemed to be the only sign that there were real feelings involved in all of this; both Alfarinn and Thaddeus were showing a willingness to look toward their own, and even Christian was contributing his thoughts on a clanmate. The Evenhet Security Chief seemed to be quite a ray of sunshine...but Palmer thought he seemed decent. He personally thought that adding one's own Elder to the list might be a little much for the sake of objectivity and wondered if Thaddeus would have such an easy time of things if Palmer had been in the know as well.
In any case, Palmer supposed that was what made him a better fit for the Order of the Hunt. He ran on instinct, felt the moment, took what he saw and ran with it. Objectivity, fairness, logic and reason entered into it when needed but they weren't the laws he lived by. Thaddeus tended to think those things were infallible at times and maybe they would be if the world were fair. Even so, his friend -had- good instincts even if he didn't always trust them.
"All right. What does your gut tell you?"Â?
He shook his head at Thaddeus's mention of plans, though he smiled a little too.
"Yeah, you know so much."Â? His grin broadened. "Did these plans of yours ever include the words 'create a diversion?' Because 'hey, look over there' isn't really a plan, you know."Â?
Maybe he shouldn't tease Thaddeus right now but he knew -he- could use a mood lightener.
"Seriously, though, what did you have planned next?"Â?
He indulged in a brief daydream in which Thaddeus's mood had something to do with him showing up, but didn't kid himself too much.
As usual when dealing with a lump sum of information, Palmer grew chatty while he processed.
"You know, I came -this- close to meeting Simon. Only there was the explosion and whatnot. Did get the opportunity to meet some Tacharans though, lovely bunch, quite charming really. I'm afraid I behaved like a complete cad though, leaving so abruptly..."Â?
Realizing he was doing what Thaddeus would call 'getting started, he considered the rest of the list and the lovebirds' analysis of each name. They were both taking this so...logically. That, to Palmer, was strange behavior, though he supposed it was typical nightsman to be calculating. Even so, it was somewhat shocking to so calmly make up a list that included names on both sides. He was particularly surprised that Thaddeus did not more ardently defend Sorin, but then that seemed to be the only sign that there were real feelings involved in all of this; both Alfarinn and Thaddeus were showing a willingness to look toward their own, and even Christian was contributing his thoughts on a clanmate. The Evenhet Security Chief seemed to be quite a ray of sunshine...but Palmer thought he seemed decent. He personally thought that adding one's own Elder to the list might be a little much for the sake of objectivity and wondered if Thaddeus would have such an easy time of things if Palmer had been in the know as well.
In any case, Palmer supposed that was what made him a better fit for the Order of the Hunt. He ran on instinct, felt the moment, took what he saw and ran with it. Objectivity, fairness, logic and reason entered into it when needed but they weren't the laws he lived by. Thaddeus tended to think those things were infallible at times and maybe they would be if the world were fair. Even so, his friend -had- good instincts even if he didn't always trust them.
"All right. What does your gut tell you?"Â?
He shook his head at Thaddeus's mention of plans, though he smiled a little too.
"Yeah, you know so much."Â? His grin broadened. "Did these plans of yours ever include the words 'create a diversion?' Because 'hey, look over there' isn't really a plan, you know."Â?
Maybe he shouldn't tease Thaddeus right now but he knew -he- could use a mood lightener.
"Seriously, though, what did you have planned next?"Â?
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Smiling slightly as Theo turned and rested her head in his lap, Christian gently pulled stray strands of hair back away from her face before resting a hand lightly but protectively across her shoulders. She was not so young as she appeared and he was not one to forget her age, in fact, he felt something of a special tie to Theo who had essentially lived through the same years as himself. Though she was from a different part of the world and they met later, Theo always seemed to him a co-representative of 'their time' in ways those vampires older could not be. Alfarinn, as a present example, was from another era altogether and simply passed through their's; it did not hold the special significance of human existence to the elder.
He listened to Thaddeus conjecture on Artemis's innocence and wondered at the willingness to draw feeling into the equation. Instincts were a good tool in the heat of a situation but they were fallible as far as he was concerned. While they had time to try to sort things out through logic it would be best to do so. He knew though that Alfarinn's empathy brought forth a less objective view than his own but in some ways it was more certain so perhaps there were reasons for Thaddeus's methods that he was not aware of.
...or perhaps clearing Artemis of the crimes allowed Sorin some measure of innocence as well. Betrayal by a friend was one of the cruelest non lethal wounds a person could inflict upon another but this unknown enemy wanted to end their lives in a very real and very permanent way.
He frowned thoughtfully at the mention of the butler and added someone checking up on that to a mental to do list.
"Though you might be correct about both men, I believe for your own safety that you both should keep contact to the people on this list to a minimum unless we can find more certain evidence of their innocence. You said this was in connection to your creator's death. Is there any of those mentioned that would have benefited in her murder?"Â?
This is where Artemis looked less guilty in his eyes; what possible use could the inventor have in the death of some Anantya? He would still not rule out Artemis. The man had his secrets and his ties to the other clan. Perhaps it was possible that Thaddeus's creator was a rival or a threat to Artemis's own? He might have taken it upon himself to keep Morrigan safe or was asked to do so as an outside member less likely to be suspected.
Christian nodded in acceptance of Thaddeus's willingness to be level headed and practical in the situation and felt no more admonition towards caution needed to be added. That the Asian elder knew of the situation was interesting and he was curious how she fit into this equation. To his limited outside knowledge, Mai rarely involved herself in things save to take decisive action. What was she likely doing? Or did she merely sanction Thaddeus's search and Alfarinn's aid?
He listened to Thaddeus conjecture on Artemis's innocence and wondered at the willingness to draw feeling into the equation. Instincts were a good tool in the heat of a situation but they were fallible as far as he was concerned. While they had time to try to sort things out through logic it would be best to do so. He knew though that Alfarinn's empathy brought forth a less objective view than his own but in some ways it was more certain so perhaps there were reasons for Thaddeus's methods that he was not aware of.
...or perhaps clearing Artemis of the crimes allowed Sorin some measure of innocence as well. Betrayal by a friend was one of the cruelest non lethal wounds a person could inflict upon another but this unknown enemy wanted to end their lives in a very real and very permanent way.
He frowned thoughtfully at the mention of the butler and added someone checking up on that to a mental to do list.
"Though you might be correct about both men, I believe for your own safety that you both should keep contact to the people on this list to a minimum unless we can find more certain evidence of their innocence. You said this was in connection to your creator's death. Is there any of those mentioned that would have benefited in her murder?"Â?
This is where Artemis looked less guilty in his eyes; what possible use could the inventor have in the death of some Anantya? He would still not rule out Artemis. The man had his secrets and his ties to the other clan. Perhaps it was possible that Thaddeus's creator was a rival or a threat to Artemis's own? He might have taken it upon himself to keep Morrigan safe or was asked to do so as an outside member less likely to be suspected.
Christian nodded in acceptance of Thaddeus's willingness to be level headed and practical in the situation and felt no more admonition towards caution needed to be added. That the Asian elder knew of the situation was interesting and he was curious how she fit into this equation. To his limited outside knowledge, Mai rarely involved herself in things save to take decisive action. What was she likely doing? Or did she merely sanction Thaddeus's search and Alfarinn's aid?
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn listened but could offer no real statement on the list. Artemis was not guilty, he knew it and him very well and that was a thing he was certain on. Nor was Simon, though that was a less a certain thought; it was still what he felt to be true. There was, in all of the list, only one person that his empathy had given him evidence of having the capacity to commit murder and come out of it with a full night's sleep. Sorin had that sort of conscience. The man was able to act well. He had been ruler of his world and maker of his own rules since nearly his human birth. If anyone could convince himself that his need was great enough to justify the act, it was the current Elder of the Night.
That did not prove Sorin guilty. It only made him the most likely suspect in Alfarinn's mind and so he kept silent until his speaking could be of some use.
Instead he noted with a smile that Theo had crawled over to Christian's lap and now appeared to be happily sleeping while they discussed plots and murder. The two of them were an odd pair, one so full of intrigue and the other so honest. They looked almost like a father and daughter the way they were situated and it was touching. Alfarinn felt a slight swell of pride at his wonderful clanmates and their willingness to support what must seem like a crazy situation that Evenhet need not be involved in.
That brought his attention back to Thaddeus, -his- family. He smiled and blushed a little at the mental retort and the reminder that he would soon, or perhaps for all intents and purposes was already, a Grey as well. Looking down at their hands, he was overwhelmed by how fast things were moving in their personal lives, overjoyed and blissfully happy and how odd that was to be such things in the midst of complete mayhem. He supposed though that his life had be more often chaos than not and Thaddeus's life had its intrigues and hardships as well. Their happiness was likely always going to be a counter point to something going on. It seemed at once so very close and so far away that they would one day be calling this very church a home. In the count of days it was a very short span of time; in the count of experiences and hardships to overcome, he had no idea just how much there was yet to come.
Palmer brought forth mention of a plan and asked about Mai. He noted with some amusement that his companion's statement was rather simply put. She knows. In the case of the Elder of the Hunt though that was all that might be reasonably said. How much she knew, only Mai truly knew. What she thought of it all, was kept to herself as well. It was her way.
"We still have leads to follow. An earlier sensing had led us to an apartment across from the House of Pain. There are only so many of those. We believe we'll find clues to our accomplice there. It would seem that some of the Anantya staff might need to be questioned. If one of you would be so kind?"Â?
Alfarinn smirked inwardly at Thaddeus
[Or you could risk me stealing away your butler and let me talk to Rupert. I wanted to again anyway.]
That did not prove Sorin guilty. It only made him the most likely suspect in Alfarinn's mind and so he kept silent until his speaking could be of some use.
Instead he noted with a smile that Theo had crawled over to Christian's lap and now appeared to be happily sleeping while they discussed plots and murder. The two of them were an odd pair, one so full of intrigue and the other so honest. They looked almost like a father and daughter the way they were situated and it was touching. Alfarinn felt a slight swell of pride at his wonderful clanmates and their willingness to support what must seem like a crazy situation that Evenhet need not be involved in.
That brought his attention back to Thaddeus, -his- family. He smiled and blushed a little at the mental retort and the reminder that he would soon, or perhaps for all intents and purposes was already, a Grey as well. Looking down at their hands, he was overwhelmed by how fast things were moving in their personal lives, overjoyed and blissfully happy and how odd that was to be such things in the midst of complete mayhem. He supposed though that his life had be more often chaos than not and Thaddeus's life had its intrigues and hardships as well. Their happiness was likely always going to be a counter point to something going on. It seemed at once so very close and so far away that they would one day be calling this very church a home. In the count of days it was a very short span of time; in the count of experiences and hardships to overcome, he had no idea just how much there was yet to come.
Palmer brought forth mention of a plan and asked about Mai. He noted with some amusement that his companion's statement was rather simply put. She knows. In the case of the Elder of the Hunt though that was all that might be reasonably said. How much she knew, only Mai truly knew. What she thought of it all, was kept to herself as well. It was her way.
"We still have leads to follow. An earlier sensing had led us to an apartment across from the House of Pain. There are only so many of those. We believe we'll find clues to our accomplice there. It would seem that some of the Anantya staff might need to be questioned. If one of you would be so kind?"Â?
Alfarinn smirked inwardly at Thaddeus
[Or you could risk me stealing away your butler and let me talk to Rupert. I wanted to again anyway.]
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus raised one eyebrow at Palmer’s offhand remarks directed at Simon and the Tacharans, but said nothing. His friend liked everyone and there were few people that didn’t like him back, though Thaddeus suspected that Palmer wouldn’t warm up to Mathias if he were aware of the Tacharan’s clan history.
Christian weighed in on the information given and Thaddeus found that either he was getting used to the security chief’s way of speaking or else the Evenhet had mellowed his tone a little. It was hard to say for certain. He answered, he hoped, frankly enough for the man’s liking.
“Emma was an important woman.” He offered up a slight smile. “You’ll forgive me if I’m covering things you already know. Sorin succeeded her, though I don’t know how expected that was. I am not certain of what the others on the list might have had to gain from her death; I suppose I could contrive political reasons but I think those theories would be worth what we paid for them. I believe during her time she did not shy away from controversy…she was a very brave woman in her convictions.”
He looked down, smiling in admiration, and Theodosia caught his eye. God, they were all tired, and seeing her only made him more aware of that. Stacking all this on top of the main ordeal of this particular evening might be demanding too much of anyone but he was grateful for the help from his and Alfarinn’s respective friends.
He was a little surprised at his friend’s next question and frowned slightly in answer. He honestly had no idea of how to respond to that, which disturbed him a little. Shouldn’t he feel something? Some outraged defense of one person, some deep seated knowledge that this one was the one? He truly didn’t.
Rolling his eyes at Palmer’s crack on his planning skills, he considered how on earth to answer the huntsman’s question. Meanwhile Alfarinn was explaining their next step, which thankfully bought him a little time and provided him with some sort of answer even if it wasn’t what Palmer was looking for.
“The only thing my gut is telling me is that we’re closing in. That we’re going to solve this, even if it takes one small step after another. Beyond that, it’s as Alfarinn said; we have the apartment lead and some questions to ask.”
He frowned, both at Alfarinn’s sent comment and the suggestion to question the staff.
[I don’t doubt your ability to get an answer when you need one…I suppose I give Rupert’s discretion a good deal of weight but you might give a try.]
Christian weighed in on the information given and Thaddeus found that either he was getting used to the security chief’s way of speaking or else the Evenhet had mellowed his tone a little. It was hard to say for certain. He answered, he hoped, frankly enough for the man’s liking.
“Emma was an important woman.” He offered up a slight smile. “You’ll forgive me if I’m covering things you already know. Sorin succeeded her, though I don’t know how expected that was. I am not certain of what the others on the list might have had to gain from her death; I suppose I could contrive political reasons but I think those theories would be worth what we paid for them. I believe during her time she did not shy away from controversy…she was a very brave woman in her convictions.”
He looked down, smiling in admiration, and Theodosia caught his eye. God, they were all tired, and seeing her only made him more aware of that. Stacking all this on top of the main ordeal of this particular evening might be demanding too much of anyone but he was grateful for the help from his and Alfarinn’s respective friends.
He was a little surprised at his friend’s next question and frowned slightly in answer. He honestly had no idea of how to respond to that, which disturbed him a little. Shouldn’t he feel something? Some outraged defense of one person, some deep seated knowledge that this one was the one? He truly didn’t.
Rolling his eyes at Palmer’s crack on his planning skills, he considered how on earth to answer the huntsman’s question. Meanwhile Alfarinn was explaining their next step, which thankfully bought him a little time and provided him with some sort of answer even if it wasn’t what Palmer was looking for.
“The only thing my gut is telling me is that we’re closing in. That we’re going to solve this, even if it takes one small step after another. Beyond that, it’s as Alfarinn said; we have the apartment lead and some questions to ask.”
He frowned, both at Alfarinn’s sent comment and the suggestion to question the staff.
[I don’t doubt your ability to get an answer when you need one…I suppose I give Rupert’s discretion a good deal of weight but you might give a try.]
Palmer
18 years ago
Palmer raised his hands, palm up, when Thaddeus gave him a snippy look. He did, after all, have the higher ground here and was graciously choosing not to rub it in. Considering that had been one of Thaddeus's brilliant plans oh so long ago.
The fact that it had worked was neither here nor there, unless it was to highlight Palmer's excellent diversion making skills.
He nodded in agreement with Christian; these guys needed to keep a low profile. What on earth they were doing going to parties and the like was beyond him. The security chief's next question, however, gave him pause. Thaddeus was probably right, a murder like this, hell, an assassination, could have roots in a variety of things. He wasn't sure what had changed in the Order of the Night since Sorin took over, but figured taking a look at Emma and Sorin's different platforms might lead them somewhere.
It just figured that history would turn out to be helpful and was glad that would be Thaddeus's gig and not his, even if the nightsman didn't think that was a strong thread to follow. The blonde would still be thinking about it, no doubt.
Meanwhile, there was Thaddeus's answer to his own question to puzzle over. He didn't like to suspect that his friend was being less than forthcoming in such a serious situation but wasn't sure what else to think when the nightsman fed him some party line. What was going on in that pale little head?
He brightened when Alfarinn explained their next step; here he could be useful and that was comforting.
"Some of the Tacharans I was talking to mentioned the House of Pain. Popular club I guess? And investigating apartments, interesting...did you have a way of gaining entry in mind?"Â? One could hope disguises were involved. He flashed a grin at the request for volunteers. "I'm the man for that. See, I can stick close to the truth when I ask around. I really am Palmer Calhoun from Charleston, South Carolina, and I really do want to see my dear friend Thaddeus Grey and hear all about how he's doing, what he's up to, find out what in God's name he did to his hair..."Â?
He held up his hands in a placating gesture, glad the only things to throw in here were hymnals and bibles, and Thaddeus would never throw a book.
The fact that it had worked was neither here nor there, unless it was to highlight Palmer's excellent diversion making skills.
He nodded in agreement with Christian; these guys needed to keep a low profile. What on earth they were doing going to parties and the like was beyond him. The security chief's next question, however, gave him pause. Thaddeus was probably right, a murder like this, hell, an assassination, could have roots in a variety of things. He wasn't sure what had changed in the Order of the Night since Sorin took over, but figured taking a look at Emma and Sorin's different platforms might lead them somewhere.
It just figured that history would turn out to be helpful and was glad that would be Thaddeus's gig and not his, even if the nightsman didn't think that was a strong thread to follow. The blonde would still be thinking about it, no doubt.
Meanwhile, there was Thaddeus's answer to his own question to puzzle over. He didn't like to suspect that his friend was being less than forthcoming in such a serious situation but wasn't sure what else to think when the nightsman fed him some party line. What was going on in that pale little head?
He brightened when Alfarinn explained their next step; here he could be useful and that was comforting.
"Some of the Tacharans I was talking to mentioned the House of Pain. Popular club I guess? And investigating apartments, interesting...did you have a way of gaining entry in mind?"Â? One could hope disguises were involved. He flashed a grin at the request for volunteers. "I'm the man for that. See, I can stick close to the truth when I ask around. I really am Palmer Calhoun from Charleston, South Carolina, and I really do want to see my dear friend Thaddeus Grey and hear all about how he's doing, what he's up to, find out what in God's name he did to his hair..."Â?
He held up his hands in a placating gesture, glad the only things to throw in here were hymnals and bibles, and Thaddeus would never throw a book.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian nodded and noted with an easing of some of his earlier tension that they did have a plan of sorts or a list of things to check further into at the very least.
So Thaddeus was the child of Emma the previous Elder of the night. He had been reasonably certain this was so from this conversation and ones in the past with Alfarinn about the lack of leads in the murder of his friend but having the Anantya mention it helped him place things and himself in order. They were willing to share their information, the both of them with both clans and though he had no delusions that there had not been discussion amongst them prior to this or even things they might keep hidden, he felt better for knowing they were sharing equally.
"That then does not narrow down our search but broadens it as it is possible any of the people, save the staff, could have had political or personal reasons for wanting her out of the way."Â?
Christian was feeling suddenly appreciative of Grisha's non political stance. The old man was a historian and book collector. He loved his hobbies and minded his own business, many times cautioning Chris to do the same. It was a comfort to know that though he put his own life at risk, Grisha was reliable constant that he had reason to believe would be there for his entire life.
He looked at Palmer when he volunteered to go to the House of Pain and then glanced at Thaddeus. Did they know what sort of club they were speaking of? Christian left that place up to those agents better suited to fitting in, such as Alfarinn. He personally felt he looked stiffer than board and constantly distracted. It was a tactical nightmare and the music gave him a headache. With a quiet sigh of long suffering patience, he also offered his assistance.
"If you feel that it would be fruitful to search the House of Pain then I can accompany you."Â?
So Thaddeus was the child of Emma the previous Elder of the night. He had been reasonably certain this was so from this conversation and ones in the past with Alfarinn about the lack of leads in the murder of his friend but having the Anantya mention it helped him place things and himself in order. They were willing to share their information, the both of them with both clans and though he had no delusions that there had not been discussion amongst them prior to this or even things they might keep hidden, he felt better for knowing they were sharing equally.
"That then does not narrow down our search but broadens it as it is possible any of the people, save the staff, could have had political or personal reasons for wanting her out of the way."Â?
Christian was feeling suddenly appreciative of Grisha's non political stance. The old man was a historian and book collector. He loved his hobbies and minded his own business, many times cautioning Chris to do the same. It was a comfort to know that though he put his own life at risk, Grisha was reliable constant that he had reason to believe would be there for his entire life.
He looked at Palmer when he volunteered to go to the House of Pain and then glanced at Thaddeus. Did they know what sort of club they were speaking of? Christian left that place up to those agents better suited to fitting in, such as Alfarinn. He personally felt he looked stiffer than board and constantly distracted. It was a tactical nightmare and the music gave him a headache. With a quiet sigh of long suffering patience, he also offered his assistance.
"If you feel that it would be fruitful to search the House of Pain then I can accompany you."Â?
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn thought that he could go into an in depth exploration of just why Thaddeus believed he was persuasive, perhaps even test this with various mutually entertaining suggestions at a later point.
[Thank you for your faith in my talents, Beloved.]
He smirked inwardly though he found it was hard to keep it from showing.
Palmer mentioned the knowing of the House of Pain and Alfarinn marveled at the man's quick ability to get information and socialize with apparently anyone. He was not surprised thate the Tacharan were discussing the place, however; it seemed to be a favorite of many of their kind.
[He would make an excellent Nightsman from what he's shown. ]
He wondered how Palmer ended up in the Order of the Hunt and assumed there were other talents and inclinations the man had yet had the occasion to show.
Crispin looked like he would have rathered someone said he go into hell and back but he offered to aid in a search of the nightclub.
[Should we let Cris off the hook and tell them that there is likely no need to search around in the House of Pain itself?]
He was also not opposed to prolonging the potential misunderstanding knowing that the Security Chief would be glad to hear that it was not necessary.
The comment about Thaddeus's hair did take him by surprise. He was not certain what was so wrong with the longer length though he would admit that he appeared to be personally biased on the issue. In Thaddeus's case he thought his companion looked wonderful no matter how he chose to wear his hair and seeing it tousled when Thaddeus woke up next to him was probably his favorite.
[Thank you for your faith in my talents, Beloved.]
He smirked inwardly though he found it was hard to keep it from showing.
Palmer mentioned the knowing of the House of Pain and Alfarinn marveled at the man's quick ability to get information and socialize with apparently anyone. He was not surprised thate the Tacharan were discussing the place, however; it seemed to be a favorite of many of their kind.
[He would make an excellent Nightsman from what he's shown. ]
He wondered how Palmer ended up in the Order of the Hunt and assumed there were other talents and inclinations the man had yet had the occasion to show.
Crispin looked like he would have rathered someone said he go into hell and back but he offered to aid in a search of the nightclub.
[Should we let Cris off the hook and tell them that there is likely no need to search around in the House of Pain itself?]
He was also not opposed to prolonging the potential misunderstanding knowing that the Security Chief would be glad to hear that it was not necessary.
The comment about Thaddeus's hair did take him by surprise. He was not certain what was so wrong with the longer length though he would admit that he appeared to be personally biased on the issue. In Thaddeus's case he thought his companion looked wonderful no matter how he chose to wear his hair and seeing it tousled when Thaddeus woke up next to him was probably his favorite.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus raised one eyebrow at Alfarinn, suspecting his lover was being sarcastic, but brought his attention back to the group before sending:
[I really do, you know. And you’re right; Palmer would have been a great nightsman. He brings a good angle to the order of the hunt though, and that’s what he wants to be doing so I suppose it all works out.]
Christian’s assessment regarding motive was quite accurate and he nodded in agreement, though it was a frustrating conclusion.
“I suppose going by motive only makes perfect sense in hindsight; we have other directions we can take at least.”
He wasn’t particularly surprised that Palmer volunteered to query the staff, and the huntsman really did have a reasonable cover for asking around at the Manor.
Then his friend had to go and mention the hair, temporarily driving other thoughts out of his mind. He had a moment of indignant sputtering before he cooled off and schooled his expression to complete indifference. Leaning over to speak ‘quietly’ in Alfarinn’s ear, he said:
“Poor man’s jealous. Hair envy. Terrible thing, really.” He gave Palmer a look that was clearly intended to incinerate something. “He deserves our pity.”
He rather held the opinion that what Palmer deserved was a good box on the ear but kept that ungracious thought to himself, instead answering Alfarinn’s query and Christian’s concern.
“We’ve looked at the House of Pain a couple of times now; I don’t know that another trip is really needed.” He shrugged lightly. “I suppose it couldn’t hurt to try to make a contact in the staff there as well but that might arouse more suspicion than it’s worth it to be helpful.”
[I really do, you know. And you’re right; Palmer would have been a great nightsman. He brings a good angle to the order of the hunt though, and that’s what he wants to be doing so I suppose it all works out.]
Christian’s assessment regarding motive was quite accurate and he nodded in agreement, though it was a frustrating conclusion.
“I suppose going by motive only makes perfect sense in hindsight; we have other directions we can take at least.”
He wasn’t particularly surprised that Palmer volunteered to query the staff, and the huntsman really did have a reasonable cover for asking around at the Manor.
Then his friend had to go and mention the hair, temporarily driving other thoughts out of his mind. He had a moment of indignant sputtering before he cooled off and schooled his expression to complete indifference. Leaning over to speak ‘quietly’ in Alfarinn’s ear, he said:
“Poor man’s jealous. Hair envy. Terrible thing, really.” He gave Palmer a look that was clearly intended to incinerate something. “He deserves our pity.”
He rather held the opinion that what Palmer deserved was a good box on the ear but kept that ungracious thought to himself, instead answering Alfarinn’s query and Christian’s concern.
“We’ve looked at the House of Pain a couple of times now; I don’t know that another trip is really needed.” He shrugged lightly. “I suppose it couldn’t hurt to try to make a contact in the staff there as well but that might arouse more suspicion than it’s worth it to be helpful.”
Palmer
18 years ago
Palmer frowned a little at Christian's remarks regarding motive. It really was too easy to get on the wrong side of someone, and hell, this whole thing could just be completely senseless.
Running his hand proudly over his bald head, he smirked in response to Thaddeus's accusations of envy.
"Oh, don't get your pants in a bunch, it's a good look for you. I just can't get over the fact that Thaddeus Grey -let his hair grow long-. I just assumed that was all you had when you were turned..."Â? He pretended to peer closely at Thaddeus for a moment, a devilish smirk giving him away. "...but wait...is that really your hair? Or did someone get a weave?"Â?
He couldn't help but be a little disappointed that the House of Pain looked like a no go, though he reasoned there might be time for that at some point.
Frowning at that thought as he realized he was thinking as though he were staying in Nachton for some time instead of a brief business trip, he rested his elbows on the back of the pew and looked up for a moment, reconfiguring.
"I don't mind going if you guys think it's a good move...I just realized, I'm going to have to call home."Â? He looked back at the group and gave Thaddeus a wink. "Tell them I'm going to be up here for a while. I'll leave the real reasons out of it of course."Â?
Running his hand proudly over his bald head, he smirked in response to Thaddeus's accusations of envy.
"Oh, don't get your pants in a bunch, it's a good look for you. I just can't get over the fact that Thaddeus Grey -let his hair grow long-. I just assumed that was all you had when you were turned..."Â? He pretended to peer closely at Thaddeus for a moment, a devilish smirk giving him away. "...but wait...is that really your hair? Or did someone get a weave?"Â?
He couldn't help but be a little disappointed that the House of Pain looked like a no go, though he reasoned there might be time for that at some point.
Frowning at that thought as he realized he was thinking as though he were staying in Nachton for some time instead of a brief business trip, he rested his elbows on the back of the pew and looked up for a moment, reconfiguring.
"I don't mind going if you guys think it's a good move...I just realized, I'm going to have to call home."Â? He looked back at the group and gave Thaddeus a wink. "Tell them I'm going to be up here for a while. I'll leave the real reasons out of it of course."Â?
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian did his best to not look relieved when Thaddeus mentioned the House of Pain was not necessary. He could figure that it had been a while since Palmer and Thaddeus had seen each other and the good natured ribbing seemed part of the 'catching up' process that most friends went through in the presence of others especially.
He nodded and looked at the couple in front of him.
"Perhaps we can be of service to you then when you check out these apartments. I gather that we are keeping this amongst ourselves as there are suspects on both sides of the clans at this point."Â?
Working with a new team was always trial, not knowing how people are going to respond to things or their expertise made the situation more difficult but Palmer had seemed to be calm under pressure if the situation in the Mayor's mansion was any indication. Despite his joking and teasing here, it would seem he could be all business when it was needed.
"Did you have a method for searching these apartments planned out?"Â?
He could get surveillance equipment if needed or work out a way inside the buildings if they did not already have one. It would be easier with his own team and going above board but wishing it were so wasted time they did not have.
He nodded and looked at the couple in front of him.
"Perhaps we can be of service to you then when you check out these apartments. I gather that we are keeping this amongst ourselves as there are suspects on both sides of the clans at this point."Â?
Working with a new team was always trial, not knowing how people are going to respond to things or their expertise made the situation more difficult but Palmer had seemed to be calm under pressure if the situation in the Mayor's mansion was any indication. Despite his joking and teasing here, it would seem he could be all business when it was needed.
"Did you have a method for searching these apartments planned out?"Â?
He could get surveillance equipment if needed or work out a way inside the buildings if they did not already have one. It would be easier with his own team and going above board but wishing it were so wasted time they did not have.