In Nomine: Los Angeles (IC)

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-19, 08:10 AM (ISO 8601)

Haralambos ruminates on what he's seen as he stands nearby Hanna's house. Not directly in front of it of course, but with his hearing he can hear enough to know if anything bad happens.

Selena is important, he's pretty sure. Maybe she's a demon using the mob and thinking he's a Soldier of Heaven. Maybe she's a spirit. Or maybe she's just a tad bit in the know. Hmm... if she's human, she seems to be an agent of Lust, whether knowingly or not. Confronting her and, if she's not on their side, killing her, seems good. He's pretty sure Madman Harry could probably do that in tune with the Symphony.

And Hanna's nightmares. Didn't Ramiel say Malcolm wasn't sleeping, either? She was one of the Five, he was sure now. Once again, he felt chafed by the edicts that they couldn't just tell humans what was going on. Haralambos liked being a Seraph, but he wished he could attune to a person like a Cherub without the cacophony his Song of Attraction made.

As is, he stays put.

Spoiler: Also IC, if nothing eventful happens beyond the bombing. To help get to the proper timeline. Ignore if something important comes up

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Haralambos hears the sound and almost starts to dash out to investigate, but then hesitates. Someone should be protecting Hanna.

He tries to trace in his mind where the explosion came from. After a minute of focused thought... Southward, it seems... huh, so not towards Lee's shop, so probably not his Superior showing up. He hesitates between flying off to investigate and staying to protect Hanna, but decides to stay. If he thought it was Lee doing something big, he'd go there and kill the demon after its Prince left. But he wasn't great at investigating, and any demons causing the mayhem probably already fled.
...is that smoke? Harry's wanted to kill that fire demon, but the fiend probably fled already.

Feeling a tad frustrated and bored, he calls his friend Khalil.
If gets him: "Hey, it's Harry. You okay, man? That sound just now wasn't you, was it? From last night's meeting, seems something big and Bad is up. Oh--and I got to kill a Soldier earlier today. That was fun."
Actually, he leaves the same thing as a message if he gets voicemail.
He's hoping the source isn't Khalil, but it wouldn't be the first time either one of them made some noise in town.

Since he's talking on a phone -- something he noticed makes humans more easily ignored -- he walks closer to Hanna's house, keeping an ear out for her, too.

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-19, 06:32 PM (ISO 8601)

Early Morning
Khalil Dhali

Spoiler: OOC

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From a PC perspective, I know that Sarah has the Corporeal Song of Healing – which, while the mechanics of an overdose are a bit open-ended, I’d rule that in this case it would make sense that such a song would be helpful.
From an NPC perspective, both Mercy and Solomon also have the Corporeal Song of Healing – though Mercy is stronger in Songs than Solomon is.
Alternatively, as you stated, clinics or hospitals.
It would entirely depend on whether or not Khalil wants to keep Kaitlin’s condition on the down-low. From a role perspective, admittance to a hospital for a drug overdose could be a way of shedding more light on what she’s been up to. Plus if the emergency room staff feel she’s a danger to herself, they could hold her for a while.
Then again….it also makes her easier to find.

Also, from a time-line perspective, once you decide on what route to take for treating Kaitlin (he’d at least know that Sarah has a job she can’t just step away from at a moment’s notice, unfortunately), we’ll accelerate to around 10:00 AM and gloss over the specifics of the treatment. Regardless, Kaitlin is currently safe thanks to the single-mindedness of Khalil and his devotion to the ideals of Gabriel.

Feel free to write up a quick blurb about what Khalil is doing with Kaitlin, and then go ahead and skip ahead to when – I assume – he returns to his office for the next day? Or do whatever he wants instead, but he succeeded (like everyone did) on hearing the explosion of Brighton House, which means that you can include your response to Haralambos in the next post as well after he calls you.

Sorry if that’s a bit rambling and complex, but I’m trying to synchronize the timeline for the players.

The man with the turtle-necked shirt just continues to smoke idly as Khalil blows him a kiss and winks in his direction before driving away.

As he’s driving, Kaitlin murmurs softly in her sleep. Most of it is illegible, but Khalil picks up a couple words and names amidst her drug-fueled dream-ramblings. Of note, Kaitlin mentions the name Madison, the name of her brother Justin, and repeats ”I’m sorry” several times, voice thick with a whimpered, hidden sorrow.

They drive for a little while, and as they do Khalil can feel a glorious crescendo in the Symphony – and he knows that the Sun has finally crested the horizon, hidden behind storm clouds though it may be. The flush of essence rising within him is, as usual, a wonderfully rapturous feeling.

Much of the city would be starting to stir at this point, and while most emergency rooms are open all night, clinics would just be opening now.

Not to mention that both Sarah and Mercy would be starting work soon. Both of which were skilled in the healing arts.

* * * * *

ELLINGTON and WOLF, LLP
10:00 AM

Sarah

Bethany smiled a small, strained smile as Sarah returned to the office. Even from here, the plume of smoke rising from the fire at Brighton House was visible through the pouring rain pattering against Sarah’s office window.

It was obvious to Sarah that Bethany was comfortable with her – she felt safe with the Bright Lilim – but the ongoing drama had taken a toll on the girls emotional state of mind. She takes the offered card with a quick glance, before tucking it into her purse with the intention of putting Sarah on speed dial when she gets home.

”Oh, um...yeah. She dropped me off and went to grab a coffee and finish off an essay for her political science class. She’s supposed to meet me back here in….” Bethany glances at her phone for a moment “About ten minutes or so?”

With a small wave, Bethany excused herself and stepped out of the office to make her way to the elevator. She was already calling her friend and letting her know she was finished and ready for a pick-up.

Meanwhile, Claire had risen from her chair and smiled at Sarah. ”Poor girl. It’s a shame what she’s going through.” She shook her head, and made a few small adjustments to something on the screen of her tablet before turning towards the door. ”I’ll have the minutes from your interview today drafted and sent to you by the end of the day Miss Summers. Is there anything else you need me to put together for you today?”

Claire was an extremely capable paralegal, and Sarah knew she’d have meticulous notes put together – and likely would even added annotations about nuances that many would miss, such as the emotional state of Bethany and other little details that could go a long way towards helping make a solid case.

Beyond what Sarah needed to accomplish with Bethany and her dealings with Blackwater, there were some significant problems that seemed to be brewing on the horizon. She had the impression that Los Angeles was about to become significantly more dangerous – and perhaps contested – in the coming weeks.

Currently, as far as Bethany goes – the most compelling lead that Sarah has is the sleek, black card for the escort that offered to help the young woman: Selena Carter.

* * * * *

HOLLYWOOD ARTS HIGH SCHOOL
10:00 AM

Ramiel

Mrs.O’Donnell gives a pleased hum of acknowledgement at Sam’s quick-thinking concern for his friend, and simply waves a hand towards the door before returning her attention to the classroom and continuing her lessons for the day.

Ramiel would catch a glimpse of stilted rage and interrupted malice upon Agatha’s face as she glares proverbial daggers towards him, but it is likely of no real concern to the Cherub.

When the two of them make their way out of the classroom, Malcolm leans heavily upon Ramiel’s shoulder for support – and he can feel the tremors wracking the students body as his mind and body rebel against the hideous sight he’s seen.

Malcolm ends up sitting on the floor, back against some lockers with his head buried between his knees. The Cherub can hear the ragged breathing begin to slowly calm as Malcolm sorts through the traumatic experience.

”Thanks dude.” He whispers hoarsely after a few moments. ”What the **** was that, man? Like something out of a nightmare…..but I’m not sleeping, am I? This **** is real?”

Spoiler: OOC

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If Ramiel wants to tell Malcolm the truth, go for it. If he wants to be deceitful or try and spin the tale into something a little different, please make a Fast-Talk roll (or the appropriate skill default otherwise).

* * * * *

EAST ORCHARD STREET, EAST COMPTON/LYNNWOOD GARDENS
10:00 AM

Haralambos

The rumbling discordant sounds that echo through the Symphony are large, and in Haralambos’ experience it usually means that the damage done was significant. Soon, even from his current locale, Harry can see the plume of dark, oily smoke rising on the distant horizon from the fire – though the context would likely remain intangible.

While his call connects to Khalil, and Harry begins his slow stroll towards the house with Hanna sitting on the porch, he realizes she’s singing softly to herself.

The sound is unbearably sweet and Harry immediately thinks back to those most honored of Angels who perform the Trisagion around the Throne of God. It takes a moment or two for Harry to place the song the pretty red-head is singing – a song he’s heard in the past on the radio called Stay by the mortal singer Rihanna.

Hanna certainly does the song justice, and the way her voice dances across the words makes Haralambos feel a bit funny – like his heart, safely ensconced in Heaven, is tugging at him. For some reason, he feels a strange watery grief grip his heart and he blinks away a sudden, unbidden tear.

Though Haralambos exists to fight The War, and doesn’t usually preoccupy himself with much beyond that – even he would realize that she is special, as her voice alone was able to stir great emotion in the Angel.

* * * * *

TETHER of FLOWERS
10:00 AM

Jathiriel and Malchiel

Mercy gives an acknowledging nod to Malchiel wanting to check out Thatch’s home before they check out coffee shops. It’s a wise idea. Leave it to an Elohim to cut to the chase.

When Jathiriel rises, Mercy smiles that warm, sunshine-filled smile of hers and makes room for him when Jathiriel joins her at the sink to help with the dishes. The Seneschal doesn’t push him for information on whom he wants to petition; she knows he’s being truthful when he lets her know that he’ll share that information later.

She listens to his whispered words to her with a calm, but unreadable expression on her face. Her eyes linger for a moment on the sponge, and she bites back the sudden urge to gently tease him about what such an innocuous corporeal object could have done to deserve such punishment. Maybe there was some sort of parallel between the sponge and Jathiriel and his opinion of his on situation.

”I don’t believe that you were complicit Jason. I honestly don’t believe you were even privy to whatever this plot is – at least, not knowingly. What I DO believe, is that I’m not the only one who would believe you. Sarah would, for starters, and if Sarah does you can bet that Adele would as well.” She giggles softly, and nudges him with her shoulder. ”Three isn’t too bad, and I could make a case that Solomon that would believe you too. He’s big on putting his faith in people. It’s a start, anyhow.”

She drops her own dish rag onto the countertop and pulls the drain on the sink, letting the hot soapy water begin to drain with a gurgle. She turns to face him fully, and rests one of her freshly dried hands on his shoulder gently, as she is wont to do.

”You are right, Jason.” Mercy tilts her head thoughtfully. ”The Word of Revelation is about shining the Light on secrets and revealing things that others try to hide, but that does not make them infallible. It is very possible that Thachael was mistaken. But as much as you may not like my answer, Jason, I truly don’t believe he was.”

Mercy holds a hand up to stave off any sort of rebuttal from him before it could even begin, and takes a hold of his shoulders firmly to turn him bodily to face her before the sink.

She meets his eyes with an intense stare that still holds boundless compassion despite the heaviness of the subject matter at hand.

”Jason. I know you’re scared, I really do. You’re facing a lot of open hostility, and barely veiled suspicion. I want to ask you a question. If you can look me in the eye, and answer me honestly then I won’t ask you to do this. I won’t ask you to get involved any more than we have to. You can stay here and work in the Tether for as long as it takes to help you find yourself again. The word of a Seneschal carries some weight with the Council. Enough weight that unless you’re looking to petition someone like Laurence or Dominic, it should be more than enough to weigh in your favor.” Mercy seems genuine, and uncharacteristically serious when she makes this statement to Jathiriel.

”Can you tell me….without a shadow of a doubt….that you are absolutely sure that there is no way that Kronus hasn’t had you ensnared you in some twisted game of Fate? In all the time you served the Pit? You’ve been free of his machinations that entire time? I promise you I’m not saying that you knew…but if there is even the slightest chance that he’s somehow had you dancing to his own tune before you cut the strings and found me? If there is some chance that you can help stymie a dark Fate, isn’t it worth trying? For answers? For love and selflessness?”

Mercy’s smile took a sad turn, as she leaned in and brushed her lips across his cheek with gently before stepping away from him. ”Some of us may be heavy-handed in our methods, Jason, but remember that the only thing that makes us different? Demons were selfish enough to try and impose their will on the Symphony instead of trusting that – despite everything – there is a purpose to all this.” Mercy gestures slowly around her – as if to imply, well, everything.

The moment between the two of them is broken with the announcement from Malchiel that Sopholael – the resident Angel of Destiny – was just snuffed out.

Mercy gaped in horror at the news, her attention turned from Jathiriel for the moment as a few tears spilled down her cheeks.

”Oh, Sopholael…..” She murmurs between sniffles, wiping at her eyes weakly. ”It was at Brighton House, wasn’t it Malchiel? How many students were killed? Oh, God…..such needless violence!” She all but hisses, a glowering anger suddenly simmering under her perky, bright countenance.
It’s a stark and sudden reminder – seeing that anger – that even a Servant of Flowers is capable of having thorns when pushed.

”If a Demon has made an outright attack on and another Angel – especially a servant of Yves – then this isn’t an abstract plot anymore. The Forces of Hell are making a bid for something.”

Mercy shakes her head in frustration and steps over to Malchiel, and rests her hands on her hips. ”It’s a good idea that you both be out and on the move. The Tethers will be likely targets if this escalates even further. Jason, Malchiel. Please…” Her voice has descended into a whisper. ”Be careful. I can’t bear to lose any more friends.”

**Anyr** · 2018-04-20, 04:33 AM (ISO 8601)

Sarah waved goodbye to the departing actress. Poor girl. Claire echoed that thought aloud. The contract negotiator returned the sympathetic smile of her paralegal.

"At least she doesn't have to go through it alone. As for other tasks, could you check for a 'Victor' on the Blackwater personnel lists? I know that that's a long shot. Even if Bethany remembered his actual name, he might well be off the books. But we have to explore every lead. Thanks as always, Claire."

Claire would make a fine lawyer some day. And unlike her Angelic boss, she'd probably be one for the rest of her life. This Role was just the latest in a long line. Sooner or later, Sarah would move on to something else: Like a stockbroker, or a salesperson. How did humans cope with having only one lifetime? They burnt so briefly, yet so brightly. It was a privilege to be among them.

Right now, one particular human needed her help most of all. Sarah picked up her bag, and motioned towards the door.

"Right, I'm going to pay a visit to Selena Carter. Hopefully she's not fussy about appointments. Call me if you need me!"

Next stop: L.A's most intriguing escort company.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-20, 08:01 AM (ISO 8601)

Spoiler: Talking to Khalil

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I'm guessing we can RP this as a side-scene if we want. I'll pick up after getting off the phone. We can assume Harry gave Khalil a summary (with many details left out) of last night's meeting.

By the way, Haralambos also has Corporeal Song of Healing, albeit just at rank 2. I'd rather you not call him for healing this girl, though, to keep from messing up the timelines. If you use a clinic, you could use a fake name and stay guard, saying you're her grandfather or something like that. Not sure of legal ramifications for when/if they find out that's not true.

Harry gets distracted from his friend at the girl's singing. It was sweeter than Malcolm's, but... was that a tear? He'd cried in pain, and at the loss of friends, but not like this.
"...hey, buddy. I think I should go. Pretty sure it's nothing bad. Probably something good. But... I'm sure I've found one of the Five. Call me if you need me. Maybe we'll hit up Lee later."

He wipes away the tear and starts looking around, to see if anyone or anything is also listening. Malcolm was watched by demons, and this girl might be as well.

He decides to call Sarah as he scopes out the area. Maybe she'd have some insight on the more fancy aspects of town. Again, leaves a message if can't reach her.
"Sarah, it's Harry. I saw that Serena person last night at the Pits -- y'now, the escort? -- with one of those Russian sisters. I fought a Soldier working for the Russians, and Serena seemed... well, maybe to notice something. Was looking at me odd. Do you know if she's... more than a normal person? I'm thinking of hiring her to see what she is. Any idea how I could reach her?
Also, I got offered a job by the Russians. Gonna turn it down. The brainy one's bad, but not a fiend. Younger one stinks of lust, though, from what I've heard. I'm hoping to talk to her and see what she is. You ever deal with them?"

Spoiler: @ Anyr

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Hoping to do a little transfer of info while you drive to Serena's. Also, good way for Harry to be told to stay away if you don't want him stepping on your PC's toes.

I hope this doesn't seem too metagamey, or at least it's the helpful type. IC, Sarah does seem the most likely to know how to reach a high-society person.

**XIII** · 2018-04-21, 02:57 AM (ISO 8601)

Khalil called Solomon (apologizing for calling at such an hour) and explained the situation to him and requesting aid for Kaitlin, even including the bit about the turtleneck man. Khalil's car twists and turns through the streets on the way to allies and aid, his faithful VW Bug sounding more like a sputtering tractor than any car. Kaitlin's whimpering made Khalil's heart sink into his stomach, "Shhhh, you're safe now. Nobody can hurt you with Khalil around."

Another day, the sun had rose, he took a deep breath, "Praise Gabriel." Khalil basked in the feeling of another day beginning, his inner fire burned strongly.When he was satisfied that nobody was following, he finally stopped at their destination. Thanks be to Gabriel, that could have been sooo much worse.

Khalil contacted Justin and asked for his address, he would be personally bringing Kaitlin home. Khalil was interested in building rapport with the parents, he was not finished with Kaitlin and would need to gain their trust . The child needed guiding light.

I wonder how she's doing right now.

Khalil sat in the boiler room of his office, taking in the intense heat from the churning furnace. Any human would have struggled to breathe under the oppressive waves of roaring fire as he stood in front of the open hatch. Khalil was in his own personal heaven.

When would it be acceptable to visit?

The phone rings, it's good ol' Harry. After Harry catches Khalil up on the meeting, Khalil tells Harry about his night. "Thachael is gone... That's some heavy stuff, Harry. I guess I'll get cracking on this case immediately, where do we start? Listen, I'm really worried about this girl, Harry. I think I'm gonna play guardian angel for a bit with this one, I just can't let it go. Also pretty sure an infernal spotted me on my way out. Hopefully he gets stupid and comes after me."

Spoiler: OOC

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In the interest of being all caught up, I'm just go ahead and be as brief as possible. Does Khalil live in/above his office Jessica Jones style? Or does he have a place of his own? Sleeping in the boiler room would make sense for the heat source. We could spruce it up! Would Khalil have heard the dissonant note from striking the human?

**seatyger** · 2018-04-21, 10:25 AM (ISO 8601)

TETHER of FLOWERS
10:00 AM

Originally Posted by Erulasto

Mercy gaped in horror at the news, her attention turned from Jathiriel for the moment as a few tears spilled down her cheeks.

”Oh, Sopholael…..” She murmurs between sniffles, wiping at her eyes weakly. ”It was at Brighton House, wasn’t it Malchiel? How many students were killed? Oh, God…..such needless violence!” She all but hisses, a glowering anger suddenly simmering under her perky, bright countenance. It’s a stark and sudden reminder – seeing that anger – that even a Servant of Flowers is capable of having thorns when pushed.

"By God's Grace, only a few. The explosion was in the library," he noted calmly; while Malchiel found the loss of innocent life as distasteful as Mercy did, he also understood that each soul was lovingly cradled and comforted by God himself in their final moments. Such was the New Covenant between the Creator and His children.

”If a Demon has made an outright attack on and another Angel – especially a servant of Yves – then this isn’t an abstract plot anymore. The Forces of Hell are making a bid for something.”

Mercy shakes her head in frustration and steps over to Malchiel, and rests her hands on her hips. ”It’s a good idea that you both be out and on the move. The Tethers will be likely targets if this escalates even further. Jason, Malchiel. Please…” Her voice has descended into a whisper. ”Be careful. I can’t bear to lose any more friends.”

"We will, of course," he answered before turning his attention to the Balseraph. "I hope you drive; I'm woefully out of practice and would rather not rely on public transportation for this endeavor."

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-21, 06:16 PM (ISO 8601)

HALO SUITES PENTHOUSES

Sarah

Spoiler: OOC

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As far as the phone call with Harry goes, I’m okay with you guys communicating especially for the sake of game-flow and whatnot. The nuances of the timing could be considered the trickiest part, but in this case we can assume that the call was made before Sarah arrived at Selena’s penthouse.

The car ride hadn’t taken overly long, despite the miserable weather. The wind had bitten at Sarah as she stepped from her car and a young man in the claret velvet uniform of a valet approached her to find parking. Despite the sheltered overhang that kept the rain from soaking her through, she felt the wind keenly as it caressed her hair. Memories of Adele sprung to mind, unbidden, as she knew the Ofanim would have absolutely loved this weather – to the point that she would have untied her hair just to feel Janus’ fingers run through her tresses.

The Halo Suites Penthouses were some of the premier real-estate along Hollywood Boulevard. Three buildings, each over eleven stories in height with almost the entire exterior wrapped in mirrored glass that caught the light and allowed them to shimmer like radiant pillars. Each floor of these towers held only three suites, and from Sarah’s brief investigation, each ran upwards of two million dollars to buy. The view had to be phenomenal for that price.

Selena Carter usually ran her business from her home on the tenth floor of Tower B. A check on her personal website indicated that at this time of day she was usually home to take visitors and appointments – and since her schedule was posted on the site as well, Sarah seemed to have come at a fortuitous time. Selena was not only home, but free for the next couple hours.

A door-man in a tailored black suit and tie stood just inside the small foyer – all granite and crystals – and he gave her a small nod of greeting as she approached the bank of three elevators that rose up the center of the tower.

The elevator ride up was swift, and she could barely feel its movement – so smooth and advanced it was. During the brief ride up some rather wonderful classical music was playing – in this case, Sarah recognized it at Mozart’s Moonlight Sonata.

The tenth floor was a large circular hallway wrapping around the trio of elevators. The floor was granite tile and the walls were covered from ceiling to floor in painted murals and black slate vases held gorgeous bouquets of flowers between each of the three large, solid mahogany doors.

1002. This was the suite. From just beyond the door, Sarah could hear the tell-tale sounds of a John Coltrane album – Ballads, circa 1963 jazz saxophone, if Sarah recalled correctly.

With a rapping on the door, there was a distinct lack of change for a heartbeat or two before suddenly the volume decreased on the album and a soft, distinctly feminine voice that dripped with allure and sensuous promise called through.

”It’s open. Make sure you take your shoes off when you come in.”

Beyond the heavy wooden door was a sprawling, open penthouse. The floor was tiled in soft bamboo planks, and the area immediately within the doorway – as well as the visible kitchen – were tiled in polished slate. The interior walls were all a light, charcoal grey color and the exterior wall was just glass as far as the eye can see. The glass could tint on command, but presently allowed as much light in as the dreary, rainy sky would allow.

Immediately inside was the living room, which was lowered into a wide depression and filled with red and black leather couches around what appeared to be a cobbled stone fireplace and chimney that was open to all sides with the couches around it. Within, a large fire crackled to chase away the dreariness of the day.

A massive flat-screen television sat nearby, next to an antique record player – from which the jazz music softly played. While currently unused, there was a covered Jacuzzi on the balcony and several reclining lawn chairs folded up and tethered in the corner.

Leaning against the granite countertop of an island at the edge of the kitchen and the living room was a woman who certainly looked the part of a high-priced escort. She was fit, but curvy in all the right places – with a red button-down silk blouse and a knee-length black pencil skirt that accented her physique perfectly. She had long blonde hair that seemed to actually be a scintillating mix of blonde hues that gave the silken locks a shimmering quality – from platinum to deep honey gold. She held a thin-stemmed glass in her hand filled with a wonderfully spicy smelling red wine. The rim of her glass held the slightest smudge from her cherry-red lipstick.

When Sarah stepped inside, she smiled charmingly.

”You’re not one of my regulars.” Sarah felt more than saw Selena rake her gaze appreciatively over her. “Pity.”

* * * * *

SENTINEL INVESTIGATIONS
10:00 AM

Khalil Dhali

Spoiler: OOC

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So, in this particular case I’d say that it’s entirely your call. I have absolutely no problem with you keeping an office and a residence separate, though even a good PI isn’t going to necessarily be rolling in a high-class penthouse. Nothing says you couldn’t have an apartment in an older building that you’ve turned into an office as well – like Jessica Jones, as you say – but I’d say you should have a fireplace in the very least. C’mon. Gabriel would totally hook you up.

On the point of a dissonant note, I would agree with JeenLeen that your role would very likely give you the chance to cover it up. Basically, if it makes sense to be something that a normal PI would do, the Symphony won’t always complain if you do it.

As Jeen said though, go ahead and roll Corporeal Forces + Role on the d666 to see if it does make a note. Even if it does, it’d be a really small blip in the grand scheme of things – but the roll could always get noticed or an unfortunate Intervention.

Solomon was more than happy to help when Khalil called, and he met the Malakim in a McDonald’s parking lot where he had assisted in easing some of the physical symptoms that Kaitlin was going through. He had told Khalil, with a sad voice, that the young woman had a very hard road ahead of her and that many of her hurts were not simply corporeal. He had let Khalil know he was going to meet with Mercy, Jerichael, Malchiel and a new friend named Jathiriel shortly at the Tether.

Solomon had warned Khalil that, with the news of Thachael’s death, had come a revelation and the news of a potential ally in the form of a repentant, renegade Demon of Kronos. This Jathiriel took the mortal name of Jason, and was – for the moment – to be kept safe and unharmed, as there was a strong implication that he was integral to the unravelling of this mystery and it would not do them any good to have his vessel killed and him sent back to the Pit before he could find the Light again.

When Justin answered Khalil at the door of his house in an upscale neighborhood, there was only Justin’s own little car and Khalil’s in the driveway. Once again, the absentee parents had vanished off to whatever flight of fancy caught their interest and were blissfully ignorant of the trauma their children were going through.

Just had been overwhelmingly thankful, tearing up as soon as he laid eyes upon his little sister and helping bring her in and settle her onto the plush couch.
The young man had proceeded to offer more money to Khalil in gratitude for saving his sister, though at the stern indication that she was not entirely saved yet, Justin seemed to deflate and nod his head sadly. He agreed without hesitation that he would like Khalil to keep an eye on Kaitlin until she had recovered.

Justin had even offered to have Khalil over for breakfast in a day or two to have Kaitlin meet him when she was back on her feet, and so they could have a sort of….intervention.
Justin actually broke a smile when he mentioned he made a mean bacon and eggs.

Now, nestled against the warmth of the boiler, Khalil felt the sin and the ichor of his visit to Oblivion burning away under the caress of Gabriel’s fiery dominion.

It’s not long after Khalil receives his call from Harry that the Symphony erupts a ways away with a discordant cacophony. There was a plume of black smoke rising on the horizon as Brighton House burned.

His phone rang again. It was Solomon.

When the Malakim had answered, the Cherub of Faith spoke immediately.

”Khalil, we may have need of you soon. A Demon attacked Brighton House. They blew up the library with Sopholael and a number of students inside. It was an incendiary, so I’m suspecting a Servant of Belial. We may need to fight Fire with Fire. Jerichael and I are going to meet at the Howitzer shortly. We’ve asked the Seneschals to stay close in case this is a precursor to a larger attack. Do you have the time to meet us?”

* * * * *

EAST ORCHARD STREET, EAST COMPTON/LYNNWOOD GARDENS

Haralambos

The call to Sarah, conveniently enough, seemed to catch her right before she arrived at the penthouse that Selena Carter called home.

When Harry turns his attention back to Hanna, he suddenly catches movement out of the corner of his eye. An honest-to-god herse drives up – painted a vile shade of puce and bearing upon its side the logo of Mr.Lee’s All-you-can-eatery.

Harry could scarcely believe his luck, as the driver’s side door pops open and out steps the most corpulently rotund man he’s ever seen. He has to weigh over four-hundred pounds. He’s still in his chef’s garb. It’s none other than Mr.Lee himself. He waddles up to the house that Harry had destroyed the Imps in nearby. He’s not even halfway up the walk before he starts yelling about inconsiderate, incompetent little goons. The yelling is so loud that he jowls warble grotesquely and even Hanna stops her own thoughtful singing, and stands on the porch to glance at the fat Asian man making his way up to the other house.

She looks about as disgusted as Harry feels.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-21, 06:47 PM (ISO 8601)

A wide grin grows on Harry's face.

He glances towards Hanna, approving of her disgust but anxious about her seeing him attack. What if he wants to show himself as a friend later?
Well, things are limited, aren't they?

He walks, somewhat casually, towards the house Lee nearing, glancing inside the hearse to see if it has a driver or anyone else who might come to Lee's aid. Regardless of what he sees, he walks forward. As he walks, he activates his Resonance on Lee, just in case the demon says anything.

If Lee enters the house, Harry follows at a rush and slams his fist into the back of the fiend's bloated head. But if Lee starts to return to the car or sees Harry approaching, he starts the fight outside, sorry for Hanna's sake but prioritizing the War.

As he feels his fist hit flesh, he snarls, albeit quietly to not draw outside attention, "You stink of gluttony. Time to die and return to your master."

In the back of his mind, he really hopes that, of the Songs that cowardly pig knows, the Celestial Song of Motion isn't one of them.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

@ Anyr: let me know what Sarah shares about Serena. Harry would say that, if she is an angel or spirit and it helps, she's welcome to share what he is.

Resonance
(2d6)[8] @ 8
(1d6)[2]

Move Silently, in case you want it for him approaching without trying to draw notice. Ignore if it's not needed.
(2d6)[3] @ 10
(1d6)[5]

Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: (2d6)[3]
Damage: (1d6+2)[6]
Is there any bonus for a surprise attack? If yes, please add the end result to my damage check. Here's hoping his Vessel is low and I can stun him with a heavy damage roll ^_^

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-21, 07:35 PM (ISO 8601)

Originally Posted by JeenLeen

A wide grin grows on Harry's face.

He glances towards Hanna, approving of her disgust but anxious about her seeing him attack. What if he wants to show himself as a friend later?
Well, things are limited, aren't they?

He walks, somewhat casually, towards the house Lee nearing, glancing inside the hearse to see if it has a driver or anyone else who might come to Lee's aid. Regardless of what he sees, he walks forward. As he walks, he activates his Resonance on Lee, just in case the demon says anything.

If Lee enters the house, Harry follows at a rush and slams his fist into the back of the fiend's bloated head. But if Lee starts to return to the car or sees Harry approaching, he starts the fight outside, sorry for Hanna's sake but prioritizing the War.

As he feels his fist hit flesh, he snarls, albeit quietly to not draw outside attention, "You stink of gluttony. Time to die and return to your master."

In the back of his mind, he really hopes that, of the Songs that cowardly pig knows, the Celestial Song of Motion isn't one of them.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

@ Anyr: let me know what Sarah shares about Serena. Harry would say that, if she is an angel or spirit and it helps, she's welcome to share what he is.

Resonance
[roll0] @ 8
[roll1]

Move Silently, in case you want it for him approaching without trying to draw notice. Ignore if it's not needed.
[roll2] @ 10
[roll3]

Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
Is there any bonus for a surprise attack? If yes, please add the end result to my damage check. Here's hoping his Vessel is low and I can stun him with a heavy damage roll ^_^

Lee makes it into the house slowly, but eventually he makes his way into and promptly see's the blood stains on the floor that were spilled from the Imp after Haralambos struck it with the 2x4.

The Djinn wasn't given a chance to turn around or even squawk his surprise before Haralambos' fist bashes the Demon in the back of the head with a meaty crunch and sends him staggering forward with the force of the blow. The Seraph was remarkably light on his feet and the Djinn was particularly obtuse.

Lee turns about on stubby legs and snarls, his jowls rippling and spittle flying from his large mouth.

"When I'm done putting you down like the lapdog you are, I'm going to enjoy eating you for second breakfast!"

The Djinn releases a flash of Infernal essence, and his stubby fingers shift and twist into razor-sharp, but gnarled talons.

He bellows a loud roar, his mouth distending into an inhuman shape as row upon row of lamprey-like teeth undulate within his gullet.

Lee darts forward with surprising speed for his bulk, though not gracefully - more like a stampeding hippopotamus and rakes a claw forward towards Harry.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

I'm going to shake things up for this and actually show the rolls for this, since we're looking at your first honest-to-god fight with a Demon.
For transparency, Lee has Numinous Corpus: Claws/2 (+2 Accuracy, +2 Power), Fighting of 1, Strength of 8 and 3 Corporeal Forces.

[roll0] TN 14
[roll1] +2 Power

EDIT: I rolled again in the OOC channel.
(2d6)[7]
(1d6)[4]

Lee has a Dodge skill of 1, Agility of 4 and no acrobatics, giving him a Dodge TN of 5. Since you are a Seraph of War, Lee cannot dodge unless he Full Dodges - which he's not doing at the moment.
Let's see what Harry can do.

EDIT: I knew I shouldn't have previewed before I posted.

**XIII** · 2018-04-21, 10:05 PM (ISO 8601)

McDonald's Parking Lot

Khalil greeted Solomon warmly, "Salam, brother. Thank you for coming, I've never had much of a healer's touch. She will have my flame to light the way out of the dark. My task is not finished until she is saved, that was the contract I made with her brother." Khalil cleaned the blood off himself as Solomon went to work, "Got a little messy, I should have held back more. Either way, the man will be fine after his nose and lip heals up."

"A rebel, eh? I can't say I cross paths with any. By the time I knew Sarah she was already one of us, plus it's different with her. I don't know how to feel about this, but I promise to refrain for burning him as long as he seeks the light."

Justin and Kaitlin's Home

Khalil greeted Justin with a big smile, "Special delivery." Khalil attempted to make it seem difficult for him to move Kaitlin, he was just an old man after all. He kept his anger pushed down when he didn't find worried parents scrambling to find their daughter. He would have a talk with their parents one day. "She's not out of the woods, Justin. At the risk of sounding like a anti-drug commercial, addiction is a disease. We have to be here for her, care for her, and when need be stop her from harming herself again. If we don't she'll end up back where she was. Justin, I only barely made it in time to save her. Any later and she could have been gone, taken, or worse. Kaitlin comes first from now on, everything else comes second. You have my number, don't hesitate to use it." Khalil stroked his mustache pensively in between thoughts, "I don't need your money, I've already been paid. I will take you up on breakfast though. Let me know when she wakes up, especially if she gives you trouble." Khalil grabbed Justin by the shoulders and smiled, "You're a good brother, a good man. We can do this."

Sentinel Investigations

Khalil basked in the heat, offering prayers to Gabriel as he relaxed in it's purifying embrace. He could not stop thinking of the brother and sister, he prayed for peace and healing on their behalf. Talking to Harry had given him a lot to think about, he prayed for guidance for them all. Khalil jumped up at the disturbance in the symphony. By Gabriel, what was that? Khalil picked up the phone...

Khalil listened intently to Solomon. His fists clenched as he listened. By the time Solomon was done Khalil felt the fire inside him raging to be released. "I'll... Be right there."

Please let it be one of Belial's scum. Oh, please.

**Anyr** · 2018-04-22, 07:34 AM (ISO 8601)

While driving through the rainy streets, Sarah heard a phone ringing in her bag. The ringtone sounded different from usual. This wasn't her expensive, top of the line phone. It was the cheap, disposable one. Despite appearances, the latter had a more important role. She took one hand off the steering wheel in order to rummage in her bag. Such poor road safety! Adele's reckless driving had rubbed off on her. Sarah managed to extract and answer the phone without any major vehicular disasters.

Originally Posted by JeenLeen

"Sarah, it's Harry. I saw that Serena person last night at the Pits -- y'now, the escort? -- with one of those Russian sisters. I fought a Soldier working for the Russians, and Serena seemed... well, maybe to notice something. Was looking at me odd. Do you know if she's... more than a normal person? I'm thinking of hiring her to see what she is. Any idea how I could reach her?
Also, I got offered a job by the Russians. Gonna turn it down. The brainy one's bad, but not a fiend. Younger one stinks of lust, though, from what I've heard. I'm hoping to talk to her and see what she is. You ever deal with them?"

...Huh. Sometimes the Symphony could be quite blatant. Not that Sarah was complaining. 'Coincidences' like this were gifts. Harry had certainly stumbled upon some interesting information. And as usual, he approached it in an endearingly straightforward way. The mental image of him dating/interrogating Serena was hilarious. Maybe Sarah could spare him some embarrassment.

"I don't know much about the sisters. Ellington and Wolf doesn't generally seek business with the Russian mob. I do know exactly how to reach Selena, though: Because I'm on my way to meet her right now. She's a witness in one of my cases. I've never heard of her being involved in the War before. But I'll definitely keep an eye out for celestial influence. If I spot any, I'll let you know."

Soon enough, Sarah was looking up at Selena’s home. It made quite a first impression. She checked her reflection in these towering mirrors that touched the sky. She wanted to make a good first impression too. The building's interior continued to impress. Every part through which Sarah passed, from the lobby to the elevator to the corridors, was exquisitely crafted. She actually felt a bit guilty for enjoying it so much. This place was a symbol of needless extravagance. But Sarah couldn't resist drinking it in. Bright or not, she was still a Lilim. And the best was yet to come.

A wooden door opened to reveal the apartment beyond; Along with its owner. Sarah had learnt not to stare too much at beautiful humans. They tended to take it badly. In this case, though, she had a feeling it would be all right. Her eyes roamed the full length of Selena Carter: Not in a lustful, lecherous way; But rather, in the manner of someone sincerely admiring a work of art. Naturally, she took particular interest in the eyes. What Needs swam within them?

Spoiler: OOC

Show

I'll stop here for now: Just in case the Need/most desired trade affects Sarah's approach.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-22, 08:05 AM (ISO 8601)

Originally Posted by Erulasto

"When I'm done putting you down like the lapdog you are, I'm going to enjoy eating you for second breakfast!"

The Djinn releases a flash of Infernal essence, and his stubby fingers shift and twist into razor-sharp, but gnarled talons.

He bellows a loud roar, his mouth distending into an inhuman shape as row upon row of lamprey-like teeth undulate within his gullet.

Lee darts forward with surprising speed for his bulk, though not gracefully - more like a stampeding hippopotamus and rakes a claw forward towards Harry.

Harry's smile grows wider as the idiot chooses to fight. A real challenge! It feels like ages since he's fought an actual demon who knows how to fight!

As the brute rushes forward, Harry sees with delight that the fight shouldn't be too hard. The beast is strong, but slow. That means Harry's Forces, toned to fight on this realm, probably outbalance his enemy. Excellent!

Harry moves with ease to dodge the claws, ignoring any blood that starts to flow if they reach him. In reply, he deftly swivels and lands a kick against the bloated one's ribcage.

With the second round of combat, Harry lets out a musical cord as he moves his hands intricately, before smashing his open palm into the creature's leg, hoping to snap it in half. As he touches, he tries to attune his body to Lee's garment, to better track him should he flee.

"I heard you blubber on your phone about the pretty witch. Wanna give me her name so I kill her next?"

Spoiler: "It's time rumble!!!"[/spoiler

Show

EDIT: yes, great rolls. No damage from his claws. Also, remember I'm wearing Kevlar.

Combat Round 1: includes dodging his first claw rake. Or did he get to attack in the 'surprise round'?

Dodging:
Acrobatics TN 10: (2d6)[6]
Check: (1d6)[5]
Dodge TN for intervention: (2d6)[7]
Check: (1d6)[5]

Combat:
Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: (2d6)[3]
Damage: (1d6+2)[6]

Combat Round 2:
Trying Corporeal Song of Attraction on his pants:
Sing TN 8: (2d6)[4]
Check: (1d6)[4]
I don't think there's a bonus with Songs for touching, but if there is, please apply it appropriately. Celestial Song would be more useful, but seems way too likely to fail to be worth casting in-combat.

Dodging:
Acrobatics TN 10: (2d6)[6]
Check: (1d6)[5]
Dodge TN for intervention: (2d6)[9]
Check: (1d6)[4]

Combat:
Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: (2d6)[4]
Damage: (1d6+2)[3]

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-22, 06:51 PM (ISO 8601)

EAST ORCHARD STREET, EAST COMPTON/LYNNWOOD GARDENS
GLUTTONOUS SAFE-HOUSE

Haralambos

Spoiler: OOC

Show

I had forgotten the Kevlar, thanks for the reminder.

Also, no, he didn’t get to attack in the surprise round, but I figured I’d save time by getting his action in already, though technically it should have been Harry attacking, then attacking again (as his Agility is way higher than the fat Demon’s). So what I’m going to do to mitigate that is only make actions for combat round 2 in this post since Lee already acted for round 1. Hope that’s not as needlessly complicated as it sounds in my head.

The corpulent Djinn rakes his claws through the air that once held the Seraph of War - and while they don’t achieve Lee’s purpose of eviscerating his opponent, they do rend wicked gouges in the drywall and awful 50’s flower-print wallpaper. Whether Lee is too enraged to notice or care, Harry already hears the rippling and echoing disharmony at the destruction the Demon is causing.
This could get noisy.

When Harry lands the kick to Lee’s side, he feels bone fracturing under the impact and the Djinn squeaks out a sound of pain. It’s like kicking a sandbag wrapped in jell-o, and Harry can see the spreading ripple of across the fat like a still pond disturbed by a pebble.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

I believe there is no way to resist the Celestial Song of Attraction, so I’m proceeding under that assumption. I’m assuming you only spent one Essence to invoke it.

Haralambos is able to intone the music of his Song, and feels the essence coil itself around the Djinn and imprint itself upon him. For the next four hours, Haralambos will be able to track Lee if the grotesque Djinn of Gluttony tries to flee.

Lee snarls in impotent rage as the Song settles upon him, and lunges towards the Seraph again. This time, the peal of essence upon the Symphony is heard as Lee attempts to utilize one of the disgusting gifts that Haagenti provides, but the shocked look of horror on his bloated face is perhaps indicative that his Superior is presently unhappy with his performance.

The shock of this failure seems to drag the Djinn into a moment of stunned indecision.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Well, that roll was a bust. Oh well! Maybe he can bite you next time. Hehe

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-22, 08:06 PM (ISO 8601)

BRIGHTON HOUSE

Khalil Dhali

When Khalil arrives, Brighton House is surrounded by a veritable wall of flesh. Officers of the LAPD stand in the torrential rain with water-resistant overcoats worn to help stave off the elements. They’re keeping the passerby’s away and helping to herd the evacuated students of Brighton House to safer climates.

Several large fire trucks are parked nearby, the firemen rushing around while they work ceaselessly to contain the blaze – though, fortunately, the weather is doing an admirable job by itself. It’s obvious to Khalil that the fire was simply the byproduct of a more directed and targeted attack. With the weather: rain saturating the building itself, that the fire would not likely have spread far on its own. Instead, the incendiaries were used to wholly consume the library and everything in it.

Jerichael stood next to Solomon across the street, a bright yellow umbrella held in Solomon’s hand to keep the rain away from the two of them. Jerichael had added a leather jacket to his tank top and stone-washed jeans, and Solomon had his hair down and some soot staining his cheek. Both looked deeply troubled.

The Library at Brighton House was tended by a kind soul – Sopholael, an Elohite Servant of Yves – and he did not deserve such an end, and while he would awaken eventually in Heaven, the students consumed in the blast would not get a chance to achieve their own Destinies, and instead be recycled back into the Symphony to try again.

Jerichael didn’t speak when Khalil arrived, he simply gave Khalil a grim nod of acknowledgement. Solomon however, smiled wanly at his friend.

”Oh, how I wish it were under better circumstances to see you again Khalil.”

**Anyr** · 2018-04-23, 06:09 AM (ISO 8601)

A single glance can change so much. One moment, Sarah was walking confidently into the room; And the next, she was frozen in place. Selena's eyes had ensnared her. The Needs within them were...unexpected. In an instant, half of Sarah's plans for this meeting collapsed. Unless she constructed some metaphorical scaffolding, the other half would be next. She had t-Wait, how long had she been staring? Move, idiot!

With an effort, she forced herself back into motion. Hopefully Selena was used to people getting lost in her eyes. Sarah let out an embarrassed cough as she bent down to remove her shoes. Time to get back into 'lawyer mode'.

"*Ahem*. Selena Carter? My name is Sarah Summers. I'm a contract negotiator, representing Bethany Caulfield. You met her recently at the Rhapsody in Red. A group of Blackwater agents were trying to recruit her. Do you remember?"

Outwardly, she just seemed a bit flustered. Inwardly, her mind was racing like Adele on an open road. Reading Selena's Needs was like downing an emotional cocktail. Sympathy, fear and anger warred for dominance within Sarah. This woman was the architect of many people's pain: Including her own. She silently begged for something that might not even be possible. Sarah could already see a dozen ways in which helping Selena could go disastrously wrong.

But she'd try anyway. It was the right thing to do.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-23, 08:16 AM (ISO 8601)

Speaking to Sarah

Harry is surprised to hear Sarah's words, and he lets it show fully in his voice, tinged for concern for his fellow celestial.
"Wow. That's something. Well, just be careful. I'm not sure what she is, but she seems something even if she's human.

If you can, let me know what you find out. And let me know if you want me to stay away from her, or try to read the Truth from her. I'd be glad to help ya, but I don't want to mess up your plans."

The Fight with Lee

Harry's face grows annoyed at the disruptions Lee is adding to the Symphony. Whatever happens here, Harry does not want to draw attention to Hanna's home. Unfortunately, those claws seem too sharp for Harry to just sit and take it. But his expression is replaced with a smile as he feels the new senses of the demon's location swirl in his mind.

Seeing the stunned expression on the demon's face, Harry decides to try to end the fight faster.

He spins and slams his elbow into the demon's face~~, Singing a deep baritone as he moves. Unfortunately, nothing happens beyond the wasted Essence and the elbow's hit.~~ Harry quickly kicks backwards to avoid whatever the demon tries in reprisal. With childish glee overpowering his disappointment at his Singing, Harry goads on the demon.
"I figured you might be as stupid as you look, but I didn't think you'd be as stupid and weak as you look."
He follows it up with another kick to the leg and more footwork to avoid the creature's counters.

Although the fight is fun, the undulations of Lee's flesh, and the sickly feeling of his fist indenting it, make the fight slightly nauseating as well. Harry misses his longsword. ~~And his tail.~~

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Yes, one Essence for the Song. Since my check digit was 4 and I also have the Corporeal version of the Song, I get +1 check digit for 5 hours total, right? (I hope it doesn't matter, but want to make sure I got the rules down right.)

I didn't 100% follow what you said about fixing the combat rounds, but I think I got it and it sounds good. I'll keep rolling. I guess 2 more rounds, and see what changes. Harry's hoping to goad Lee's pride, to keep him fighting.

Essence Left 8/9
Damage taken: 0

Round 3
Dodging:
Acrobatics TN 10: (2d6)[8]
Check: (1d6)[3]
Dodge TN for intervention: (2d6)[4]
Check: (1d6)[4]

Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: (2d6)[3]
Damage: (1d6+2)[5]

Round 4
Dodging:
Acrobatics TN 10: (2d6)[4]
Check: (1d6)[5]
Dodge TN for intervention: (2d6)[11]
Check: (1d6)[6]

Fist/Kick
TN check for intervention: (2d6)[5]
Damage: (1d6+2)[6]

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-23, 05:05 PM (ISO 8601)

HALO SUITES PENTHOUSES

Sarah

When Sarah managed to shake herself free of the reverie and shock she was likely feeling, it seemed that – while Selena was most likely used to people staring at her – it hadn’t gone unnoticed.

The gorgeous blonde wore a pleased smirk on her ruby-red lips, and an elegant brow was quirked with amusement. When the shoes had been left behind, Selena gestured for Sarah to join her in the living room on one of the leather couches while she provided her professional spiel.

”Oh yes. Bethany. Pretty young thing. Such a bright future.” A shadow of a scowl passed across her features, displeasure showing plainly for a moment before it seemed to settle back into a distantly amused façade. ”It would be a shame to waste her talents under someone like Blackwater employs. They are leeches, suckling at the blood of the innocent and leaving husks of wasted potential.” Selena took another sip of her wine, before a soft laugh rose past her lips. ”Where are my manners? My apologies, Miss Summers. May I offer you a glass of wine? A cooler? I can whip you up something stronger if your tastes run a bit more….adventurous.” Selena moves to a tall wine-rack along one of the walls of her kitchen, where Sarah catches a glimpse of several vintages worth hundreds of dollars, and a couple bottles of scotch and brandy that appeared to be in the original bottles they were brewed into during the Civil War.

Regardless to whether Sarah acquiesces to the inquiry about a drink, Selena eventually tilts her head – still wearing that amused smirk – and settles onto a couch across from Sarah. She crosses her legs daintily upon the couch, and smooths out the black fabric of her skirt with an almost disinterested fashion.

”How may I be of…service…to you today, Miss Summers?” There was a coy glimmer in her eyes. She was certainly enjoying her time with an apparently flustered corporate lawyer.

**XIII** · 2018-04-23, 07:57 PM (ISO 8601)

Khalil parked his bug nearby and walked around the scene, absorbing all the details he could. His eyes scanned the policemen for familiar faces, hopefully someone who would spill the beans on what they know so far. The flames reflected off Khalil's eyes as he observed and analyzed, eyes that betrayed the youth of the soul within. He never liked the rain, the old man adjusted his tweed newsboy cap and wool coat uncomfortably. At least the rain is doing some good.

Khalil approached the two angels, "Jerichael. Solomon, likewise. I am eager to get to work, what do we know?"

Khalil imagined Sopholael and the innocent souls inside burning, screaming, attempting to flee. He had no doubt Sopholael did all he could here before burning away, that is if his vessel was not destroyed in the initial explosion. Khalil decided his rage would only be sated by visiting the same fate on those responsible for this.

**Anyr** · 2018-04-23, 10:35 PM (ISO 8601)

Sarah flopped down upon the comfy leather couch. Her professional persona was already in tatters. She had no hope of seeming cool and detached now. So she decided to go for 'nervous young businesswoman with a crush' instead. Instead of sitting still, she fidgeted noticeably in her seat. And despite apparent efforts to the contrary, her eyes kept wandering over Selena. Hopefully that'd provide a convincing excuse for her tension: Because that part wasn't an act. Sarah really was scrambling to cope with this situation. For now, she just focused on her original purpose.

"Wine? Thanks, but I'd better not. As for your (*ahem*) services, I'd like you to be an official witness. Blackwater recruited Bethany Caulfield using unethical and illegal tactics. At the moment, though, it's her word against theirs. If you'd agree to testify on her behalf, we can free her from Blackwater's clutches."

After which, Selena would presumably try to ensnare Bethany in her clutches. Sarah could see so many problems on the horizon. She'd just have to deal with each as it came.

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-24, 04:35 PM (ISO 8601)

EAST ORCHARD STREET, EAST COMPTON/LYNNWOOD GARDENS
GLUTTONOUS SAFE-HOUSE

Haralambos

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Yes, five hours for the duration. My apologies for not including it in the last post. I was going off memory for some of it while I was having a coffee break. Hehe

Sorry for any confusion with the post about fixing combat rounds. I realize I didn’t even make a lot of sense to myself. Regardless, I think we’re on track at the moment.

Round 3
Mister Lee! Claw Attack! Go!

(2d6)[3][1](4)
(1d6)[2]

Had Lee the foresight or information that would have allowed him to identify that the nimble man he had engaged in combat was a Servant of War, he perhaps wouldn’t have been overly eager to continue the fight with Haralambos. He knew he was losing, at least in some part of his corruption-addled mind, but the hunger for the flesh of this Angel was beginning to overpower what little sense of self-preservation that this corpulent Djinn had.

He went down to a knee roughly, with a sound much like that of a stuck and wounded boar, after Harry’s kick shattered his kneecap. The Djinn, teeth grit against the pain while spittle and what appeared to be bile from his ravenous gullet dripped down his chin, pushed himself back up and took another wild swing at the Seraph.

The Djinn was seething as, once again, the Seraph had avoided his wicked talons. The sounds of sweaty exertion mingled with snarls, and rabid grunts filled the house as, once again, his claws rent the wall behind Harry - this time shredding a painting of the McDonald's logo.

Spoiler: OOC for Round 4

Show

Claw! Claw! Claw!

(2d6)[3][1](4)
(1d6)[4]

Harry had deftly avoided the Djinn's blow, and slipped in through his defenses. A knife-edged hand slammed into Lee's throat, and harry felt the cartilage collapse under the force of his blow and Lee staggered for a moment on weak, stubby legs.

And then, like a towering tree being felled in the forest, the fat Djinn toppled over - gasping weakly as the life fled from his vessel through a ruined trachea.

A surge of militant pride swelled in Harry as he thought of the approving, if grim, smile that Michael would have given him.

And that's when he heard the sweet, young voice behind him scream....

* * * * *

BRIGHTON HOUSE

Khalil Dhali

Jerichael and Solomon adjusted under the umbrella to make a little bit of room for Khalil to join them. The fire continued to rage, and Khalil could almost feel Gabriel’s displeasure at this act of devastation. These flames burned uncleanly, producing oily black smoke and the stench of burnt drywall, plaster and people. It was a nuance that would only be detectable to one of Gabriel’s chosen. Like sampling a fine wine.

Khalil could almost taste Belial on the wind.

That’s when he caught a whiff of foulness even closer than the abstract. It was the smell of petrol and other chemical accelerants, along with the scent of Pit-born malice.

His gaze was drawn to an unassuming Asian man. His head was shaven save for a single short Mohawk and a scruff of beard upon his chin. His eyes were covered in mirrored sunglasses, and a fat, hand-rolled cigarette was burning brightly as it was pinched tightly between his fingers. The burning embers on the end of the cigarette didn’t even sputter or flicker as the rain cascaded around it – as if it were burning incredibly brightly.

With a too-wide smile, he beckoned the three of them to come over and join him before taking a large drag on the cigarette and letting the smoke coil lazily from his mouth.

* * * * *

HALO SUITES PENTHOUSE

Sarah

The nervous, somewhat off-kilter persona that Sarah had erected to cope with the drastically changed circumstances of her visit seemed to do the trick. Either that, or Selena was just as masterful at the art of putting on a show as Sarah would likely expect, given her newfound revelations about the beautiful escort.

”Well, isn’t that a shame.” Selena spoke with her ruby red lips upturned in what seemed like the most genuine smile she’d offered Sarah since she arrived. She took another sip of her own wine – which swiftly turned into downing the entirety of the glass before idly settling it upon the floor next to the couch.

”I’d be more than happy to help Bethany in any way I can.” Sarah catches a hitch of….something….in her voice. Sympathy or understanding, perhaps? Guilt?

”Maxwell Strauss and I….have a sordid history, I should warn you, Miss Summers. It’s likely that the leeches he employs will try to…discredit…my reliability as a witness. But…then again….my lifestyle doesn’t leave me with a lot left in the shame department, and I’m used to people digging invasively into my personal life. So what do I have to lose?” The laugh that follows is musical and beautiful, if a bit self-depreciating.

”Do you have any timeline, Sarah….may I call you Sarah?” The question is abrupt, but regardless of Sarah’s response, she seems to steamroll on. “I’m very flexible with my schedule, so please let me know. I will make sure that I am available in any way you need me.”

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-24, 06:50 PM (ISO 8601)

THACHAEL’S LOFT

Jathiriel and Malchiel

As it turns out, when one expects the glory of a Celestial, one would not immediately think of them crammed like sardines into a tin can with wheels.

But that’s where they found themselves. Stepping off a packed subway near the loft complex that Thachael called home. The trip was, most likely, filled with a silence perhaps a little on this side of uncomfortable.

When the pair eventually ascended the wet steps of the subway, and into the downpour slickening the streets, they got their first glance at just what type of neighborhood that Thatch called home.

The side streets and alleys were all packed with kiosks and stalls like a massed bazaar, all under colorful tarps strung across the buildings on either side. There was a constant droning hum as the rain pattered and across the tarps above, which set a background track to the murmuring susurrus of voices as people milled about, doing their shopping in the farmer’s market. Near them, a faded hot dog stand under a red and white striped umbrella sizzled and filled the street with a wonderful smell – a blend of meats and several exotic spices.

Despite the weather, the area was filled with people coming and going, and the street was filled with a veritable sea of colorful umbrellas. A large, but squat building – maybe four or five stories tall at best – covered in old reddish orange bricks stood at the end of the street and it was here, on the third floor that Thachael called home.

The door was simple wood, and based on the scuff marks around the brand new brass door handle and dead bolt, it would seem it was forced at least once in the last few weeks. It wasn’t a dangerous neighborhood, but it certainly didn’t have that upscale flavor that came with areas like Hollywood Boulevard or Santa Monica.

Sitting next to the door, under a faded blue awning was a middle-aged man with black skin and long, unkempt dreadlocks. He was puffing on a carved pipe while his weathered hands danced across the strings of a small ukulele, the jaunty tune rising to mix with the rest of the noise filling the street. A top hat of abused black velvet sat upon the ground in front of him, a smattered mixture of coins glinting within.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-24, 09:06 PM (ISO 8601)

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Victory! Not sure if you meant the surge of feeling at the end to express this or not, but winning this fight would count as the "Duel with a diabolical" rite of Michael, so I'd regen the essence I lost, right?

Also... was the scream right behind me, or nearby? I'll play it either way. But if my post is vague/confusing, it's because I wasn't sure if "behind" means immediately behind or the house or two behind me.

Also, Resonance on her (if she's the only person there) or on an abductor (if that's the situation.)
(2d6)[6] @ 8
(1d6)[4]

Lastly, does Lee look human at all upon dying? Or is he still clawed and lamphrey-mouthed?

Hmm... I'll try rolling Status for her impression of Haralambos, just in case I get divine intervention. Feel free to disregard.
(3d6)[2][4][5](11) @ ??? (base is 6+3+1=10, but I could see covered in blood near a demon-corpse modifying that target number

)

(If the scream is another person besides Hanna, he reacts the same.)

Haralambos feels pride and exaltation -- not that he'd use those words -- as the Djinn falls dead. It's tinged with regret about the noise they made, but, all in all, it was a quiet fight. He starts to ponder if he should wait to see if any demons come to see what was up, when he hears the scream.

He turns around as quickly as he can, looking for Hanna. If he doesn't see her, he runs towards her house, moving inhumanly fast.

If, as he both hopes and fears, she's screaming simply at seeing him murder a man with his bare hands, he tries to talk as calmingly as he can, holding up his hands and motioning towards the bodies. "Hey, hey. I'm not a bad guy. That guy's a demon, and the others were cooking people. I'm here to protect..."
He cuts off as he realizes what he's saying probably isn't helping, and he's not sure if he should say he's here to protect her.
...he's, um, not that great at comforting mortals. While his charming childlike innocence might usually disarm fears, this is one of those time he likely seems more like a sociopathic idiot who doesn't realize that killing is bad. But he waits to see how she reacts, hoping it's listening -- or maybe some insight based on her being a prophet -- and not to run in terror calling for the police.

If she's being grabbed, he surges to the offender, hoping to quickly add another body to his list of kills this day.

**Anyr** · 2018-04-25, 03:57 AM (ISO 8601)

Success! At least, by previous metrics. Sarah had gotten what she'd originally came here to get. But now it just felt like the first steps of a long journey. Outwardly, the lawyer gave Selena a grateful smile. Despite all the hidden issues, she genuinely was grateful.

"Sarah's fine. And thank you for being so co-operative. It's a great help. As for the schedule, Blackwater is rushing things. Your moment in the spotlight will probably be in just a few days."

Her words only scratched the surface. There was so much more she wanted to say. She wanted to truly connect with Selena; To let her know that someone saw the Need within her. If only there were a way for the two of them to really talk, without masks or games. They might be able to figure a way out of this mess. For now, though, Sarah could only offer the simplest of links.

"Erm, I'll need some way of contacting you. Is it okay to exchange numbers? Feel free to call me too, if you have any questions. Or for, you know, some other reason..."

She twirled a strand of hair around her finger as she said that last bit. Legal proceedings and nervous flirting weren't exactly the kind of connection she sought. But she had to start somewhere. Selena was secretly begging for someone to help her. One way or another, Sarah would try to be that someone. Even though this was going to cause so many headaches...

**XIII** · 2018-04-26, 08:25 AM (ISO 8601)

Khalil scrunched his nose and covered it with his cuff, "Disgusting, offensive, vile" Khalil spoke the words with venom, his rage was beginning to boil over. He'd not witnessed much worse personally in his short lifetime. He had not been around to witness every travesty before and since the siege of Constantinople, as Solomon was. "Perversion- The ****ing nerve... Brothers..." Khalil motioned to the Chinese man waving them over, "Behold." he said sarcastically, with no small measure of anger. Spittle sprayed through the old man's gritted teeth as he attempted to keep his voice down, "Allow me this honor, Solomon. I will bring you it's charred husk; Gabriel roars for retribution, I feel it."

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-26, 08:37 PM (ISO 8601)

BRIGHTON HOUSE

Khalil Dhali

Solomon and Jerichael wore matching expressions of disgust, and righteous anger burned in their eyes as they took in the sight of the smoking Chinese man, who simply sat on the other side of the street with that too-wide smile and eyes hidden behind the mirrored sunglasses.
Jerichael, like Khalil, seemed the angriest. He had taken a single step forward, though both he and Khalil would have felt the strong but comforting grip of the Cherub of Faith upon their shoulders.

"I feel the wrath of Gabriel in you, my friend. I advise caution. We are....rather exposed out here." And it was true. Firefighters and a crowd of onlookers still milled about as the school burned. A gun-fight, or any fight for that matter that was visible to Mortals was likely to cause...complications.
"We are being baited." Jerichael finally spoke with a snarl. He tipped his head back to the man across the street, and gestured with some disgust at the bulge in the man's jacket that was, no doubt, a concealed weapon.

After a moment, Solomon looked back to Khalil. "I know this one. He is Zhangarmal, a Calabim in Belial's Court. He's apparently very good at selling his destructive tendencies to whichever mortal will pay. I am reluctant to engage, but he does seem to want to have a word with us....."

* * * * *

HALO SUITES PENTHOUSES

Sarah

Selena simply offered Sarah a small, gentle looking smile and nod to the warning about Blackwater and their attempt the hustle the proceedings along to a pace more to their liking.

The gorgeous woman moved to her kitchen once again, and pulled a sleek cell-phone off the granite countertops, before turning and all but sashaying back to Sarah. All the while, that...smile....was present. She lofted an elegant brow in amused contemplation, before she actually handed Sarah her unlocked cell.

"Go ahead and put your digits in, Sarah. I'll make sure to let you know who it is if a random, unidentified number pops up on your phone." She smirks, and sits back down upon the couch, leaving Sarah with the glossy black and rhinestone studded Android phone.

After a moment, she purses her lips in thought. "Would you...perhaps....do me a teensy little favor?" She flips her bangs out of her face, and turns a little more fully to face the Bright Lilim. It's almost like handing her the keys to the palace.

"Maybe just....let Bethany know that I hope she is okay? She doesn't owe me anything for my help. I'm just glad I was there to help."

* * * * *

GLUTTONOUS SAFE-HOUSE that ISN'T SO SAFE ANYMORE

Haralambos

Spoiler: OOC

Show

The scream was directly behind Harry, at the front door to the safe house.

Haralambos doesn't need to look particularily far to find Hanna. She was standing at the top of the old faded steps on the porch, the front door in hand - now open wide to reveal the carnage beyond.

Harry see's her eyes on him, for at least a moment, when he whips around at her scream. More telling, perhaps, is that her eyes suddenly flicker across the room - taking in the vicious claw marks across the walls and through paintings. They fall then to the bloated, dead man on the ground.

She isn't panicking necessarily, as Haralambos' words pull her attention back to him. Her breathing is fast and erratic, and her skin has become a bit paler than normal, but she seems to be holding herself together surprisingly well.

After Harry trails off in his explanation, she blinks wide eyes and licks her dry lips apprehensively for a moment.

"You....you're not like them...are you?" Hanna raises a shaky hand, and points down to the corpse of the Djinn - who'se consciousness is now likely settling into Trauma back in Hell after being rather forcefully ejected from the Corporeal realm.

* * * * *

THACHAEL'S LOFT

Malchiel and Jathiriel

Spoiler: Resonance Results

Show

The Ukelele-playing man was very good friends with Thatch. He knew Thatch from....sometime...someplace....he just can't remember. Thatch always seemed sad when he spoke to him, but never really said why. He always tipped the Ukulele-guy, and bought him coffee and breakfast since all he had was his ukulele and the songs in his head.
He doesn't remember why he loved playing the ukulele so much. Just that it was important to him. Thatch said he was hurt in a car accident a few years ago, but he doesn't really remember it.
He really has no relationships with anyone but Thatch. People on the street barely pay him any mind, aside from maybe throwing him a few coins if they're feeling particularly guilty. For some reason, no one likes to sit and talk to him for long. They always get sad.

**JeenLeen** · 2018-04-26, 08:59 PM (ISO 8601)

Relief washes over Harry at her response.

Moving more towards his normal tone, with a calm sincerity, he says, "No, I'm not. That was... um, I'm not supposed to talk to this to humans, at least normally, but I think you're special, so maybe He won't mind. That," he says, motioning to Lee's former body, "well, that was a demon's body. Killing its body does real harm to their side, but unfortunately he can come back. Probably not for a few days, a couple weeks if we're lucky. The others are imps. And I... well, I fight demons."

Deciding he's probably said enough to cause trouble, he figures he might as well continue, He adds, "I'm an angel. I think you're having dreams about something important, and I want to protect you."

After a pause, he adds, "Do you believe me? I'd rather not waste the divine energy I have. I might need to fight more demons today, but I can Sing if you want to see a small miracle."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Whew...
Just a reminder that I got a good Resonance roll on her in my last post, so let me know the truth of what she says.

**Anyr** · 2018-04-27, 07:15 AM (ISO 8601)

Sarah got handed an unexpected temptation. Much as she liked Selena's seeming openness, it meant little. All those pretty words exposed her to no actual risk. The same couldn't be said for handing her unlocked phone to a stranger. Sarah weighed the black device on her palm. In the wrong hands, this could do some serious damage. Even an honest person might accidentally glimpse some of its secrets. Was this a test? A whim? Surely Selena couldn't really be this trusting.

Well, Sarah's next actions would be the same either way. She deliberately tilted the phone's screen so that the other woman could see it too. Then she navigated directly to the digital phone book; And added a new number to the listings. She did her best to avoid seeing anything she wasn't meant to see. Maybe she'd just missed out on a great spying opportunity. So be it. The Word of Trade was about building trust; Not betraying someone to gain a petty, short-term advantage. Once the deed was done, Sarah handed the phone back to Selena.

Then came the request to pass along a message. Bethany would probably be glad to hear that someone else was in her corner. Sarah really wanted to believe in Selena's good intentions here. It'd be wonderful if she genuinely was concerned for Bethany's well-being. As with the phone, though, Sarah couldn't help but be suspicious. Not that that showed on her face, of course. Her face was still smiling gratefully.

"Of course I can, Miss Carter! I'll pass along your good wishes to Bethany. The poor girl needs all the support she can get right now. It's so nice to know that she can rely on you."

There was one thing that Sarah knew for a fact: Selena did have a conscience. She was capable of remorse. And right now, her remorse was overwhelming. She knew the pain of betraying someone's trust. Maybe that was the starting point that Sarah needed. Maybe through it, she could help Selena see the value of forming a true bond.

**Failed Phantasm** · 2018-04-27, 09:25 PM (ISO 8601)

It was a very different demon who exited the subway station, practically grinning as he took in a deep breath laden with the scent of rain and fresh fruit and wet plastic and car exhaust, more pleasant in every way than the stench of body odor and cheap perfume (among other things) of a subway car. But both in the subway and out on the streets, his tension and fear had practically evaporated to the point that he might have thrown out his arms and spun gleefully in the downpour were it not for the press of the crowd around him and the presence of the Elohite beside him. ‘Finally!’ he thought to himself as he strolled through the market with a jaunty smile and a vigorous pace. The frenetic, unchoreographed press of bodies pulled him this way and that, hypnotically guiding him through the dance as if they were the charmer and he the snake. He greatly preferred the company of humans – wonderful, Symphony-deaf, utterly non-magical humans – so much more than that of most other celestials, though the irony of that prospect was not lost on him: today he reveled to be among the jealous and petty creatures who had murdered his friends and precipitated his Fall millennia ago. But that was all in the past! Better a mob of humans with their proverbial torches and pitchforks than the tender scrutinies of the Malakim. At least the former could (eventually) be reasoned with; the latter would hold grudges ‘til Judgement Day.

It was only when he heard the sound of an instrument rising above the din that he realized that he was where he had meant to go, as both address and description matched what the Elohite – wherever he’d disappeared to – had told him earlier. The street musician was almost enough to bring his mood crashing down. No one had told him whether or not there was an angel guarding the place, even if it should have been obvious in hindsight, and he really had no desire to deal with another blatantly hostile new “friend”. Still, he refrained from scowling and listened with his celestial senses, carefully focusing on the musician lest he unintentionally learn the complete life stories of random passers-by. Had he scowled, it would have quickly become a wicked grin upon hearing the echoing emptiness return: there was only one class of being he’d ever encountered whose only presence in the Symphony was a distinct tenor of trauma and terror. «Remnant,» he whispered to himself in the demonic tongue. Granted, he knew that he shouldn’t try to terrorize or torment the wretched creature, no matter how fun it might have once been and no matter how easy it was to unintentionally do. He striving to be worthy of Heaven again, he reminded himself.

‘I’ll try the door first,’ he thought, ignoring the man and turning the handle to the building. ‘Chat him up only if need be.’

Spoiler

Show

CONDITION
Health 96 / 96, Essence 10 / 10

➜ Body 12 / 12
➜ Mind 24 / 24
➜ Soul 60 / 60

ACTIVE EFFECTS

Truthfulness/6: Roll (Will – Truthfulness) whenever you attempt to lie or use the Balseraph resonance. Failure obligates you to tell the truth instead.

**Erulasto** · 2018-04-28, 04:40 PM (ISO 8601)

GLUTTONOUS SAFE HOUSE

Haralambos

To her credit, Hanna doesn't seem - particularly - phased by his explanation. She's got some of the physical fear responses still - erratic heartbeat, pale and clammy skin and shallow breathing - but she doesn't move away from Harry as he moves a bit closer to her, and she seems to be having a remarkably easy time adjusting to the revelation.

"I...uh....yeah, I do believe you. I shouldn't, but it...honestly...it kinda makes sense now?" She frowns a bit, and leans back against the wall, before sliding down to sit on the floor across from Lee's bloated corpse. Tucking her knee's up to her chest, she sighs and hangs her head a bit.

"My...uncle....I guess? He said some strange things to me before he....he tried to...um...kill me?" She wipes at her eyes to stave off any gathering tears. "He said if I wouldn't sing the song he wanted then I had to...had to die. But...he didn't have my uncle's voice. I don't know....I knew no one would believe me if I told them."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Every word Hanna says rings true with the Symphony. Mostly. The notion that no one would believe her is false, but she does believe it to be true.
I think that covers it at a check digit of 4.

* * * * *

HALO SUITES PENTHOUSE

Sarah

Selena had offered Sarah the proverbial keys to the city. Perhaps she had ulterior motives - it was hard not to be suspicious, knowing what she knew - but unless she got a Seraph invovled, it was unlikely she'd have any answers that would not come with time.

When Selena took the phone back, she immediately swapped the contact information to Sarah with a heart emoji next to it, with a small grin on her ruby red lips, then rose after collecting her empty wine glass and moving to pour herself another generous helping.

"She's a good kid, you know? I'd hate for her to get any more mixed up in this world." Selena heaves a heavy sigh, and for just a moment, Sarah catches a glimpse of the weariness and - perhaps - loneliness that weigh upon the escort.

"Oh and....Sarah? Be careful yourself. Blackwater is excellent at covering it's bases, and....I can't get you proof....but they've got some ties to people even less scrupulous and reputable than themselves, if you can believe it. I've heard some horror stories of...shakedowns....and the sort. Just make sure that everyone you've got involved in this can take care of themselves. There's been too much suffering in this city already."

Selena all but downs the entirely refreshed glass of wine in one rather impressive go before turning her back to the Bright Lilim and turning the soulful music crackling from her antique record player back up - filling the suite with the mournful wailing of a jazz saxophone, and sucinctly ending the conversation it seemed.

* * * * *

THACHAEL'S LOFT

Jathiriel and Malchiel

Whether the Balseraph had any intention of traumatizing the Remnant or not, as Jathiriel approached, the man continued plucking the strings of his ukulele and smiled up at him as he approached the door. It was a radiant smile - warm and friendly - and belied the great tragedy that had befallen the dark skinned musician as he sat on the steps. He dipped his head in greeting, though no words were expressed, and his attention returned to the flow of the music.

A couple more passerby's tossed some coins into the top hat, clinking audibly as the amount grew.

When Jathiriel had arrived at the door, he found it was unlocked - and beyond, through the dirty glass - he saw a stairwell winding around upon itself as it rose to each floor above street level.

The door cracked open, easy enough, the hinges squealing in protest. This place really was sort of run down, and Jathiriel found a strange parallel between this area of Los Angeles and the Remnant, and perhaps even himself - from a certain point of view: abandoned, forgotten, fallen through the cracks in the great hustle and bustle of the Symphony as it pressed onwards despite leaving some things behind.

**Anyr** · 2018-04-28, 06:16 PM (ISO 8601)

There it was again: The Need. It called out from within Selena's eyes. The motives behind it weren't exactly virtuous. But they carried the potential for virtue. Sarah needed to nurture that potential. She knew that it might be dangerous. And behind her sympathy for Selena, an undercurrent of anger still lurked. This woman had caused much pain to good people...just like Sarah. And also like Sarah, Selena deserved a chance to set things right.

Her host's elegant voice gave way to jazz music. Their first meeting (hopefully the first of many) had come to an end. Sarah reluctantly rose from the comfortable couch. Some of her anxiousness showed through as she said her goodbyes. Had she made a good impression? Would Selena want to see her again? Luckily, those worries could also be those of an eager to please, somewhat smitten lawyer. So they fit both Role and reality.

"Thank you for everything. I'll be sure to heed your warnings. And please don't hesitate to call; Y-You know, if you want to."

With one last backward glance, Sarah departed. She made her way through the luxurious building; And out into the rainy city. The wind gave her a breezy welcome, as she waited for the valet to bring her car. Almost by rote, she extracted her shabbier phone from its bag. A promise guided her hand. She really didn't want to make this call. But it'd literally be dissonant for her to avoid it.

Across town, Madman Harry's phone rang.

Thread: In Nomine: Los Angeles (IC)

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