Masquerade: The Autumn Court

[Luminesa]

John, Safe House

John had been fast asleep when he felt a light pressure on his right shoulder. Jolting from the couch, side arm drawn and leveled at Alexei's forehead, the Changeling was eyes-wide for a solid second before the face of the young man before him was recognized. Lowering the side arm quickly, John holstered it in his coat smoothly, "Uh, sorry about that. Yes?" In Nikolai's bedroom there was a slight scuffle. But from Katarina's and ostensibly also Alexei's there was no noise. Truth be told no one had seen Katarina for some time and John didn't know whether to be concerned or relaxed about that fact. But, rather, there was the fact that Alexei was before him and clearly wanted to speak.

Rising from the sofa John nodded and pushed passed Alexei, "Come on." Stepping out into the twilight morning hours of Los Angeles and resting on the steel handrails of the stairs leading to the small apartment. "So what is it?"

Alexei - Little Talks

Alexei waited as he nudged John on the shoulder, only to be met with the wrong end of a gun. John had been sleeping with his firearm in case of an intruder, a fact which worried Alexei. Perhaps someone had come close to the safe house recently, and he did not know about them. Regardless, in the situation in which the denizens of the apartment were in, it was best to remain armed and ready. Yet Alexei barely flinched when a gun was put to his face. He was used to such a reaction by now.

Nikolai was possibly awake, since night had fallen and was now clear and dark. Yet he never came out of his room to approach Alexei, making him wonder what the vampire was doing. Katarina’s room, in the meantime, was silent. He wondered if she had gone out somewhere, but he did not have time to ask questions. He followed John to the outside of the safe house, out to the balcony. He stood in front of the Changeling, and sighed.

“...Please believe me when I say this is...a grave matter. The Autumn Court is coming to Los Angeles.” He paused for a second, to give John time to process this statement. “Jonah was my contact. The Ogre. He took all of the people of his monastery and left. He told me to leave as well, but...I have a duty to keep this city safe. And...I am sure you would want to protect the Prince’s domain, in case of her return,” he reasoned. He moved so he could stand closer to the doorway, but he did not want to move too far out of the doorway. If John tried to leave, he would need to convince him to listen.

“...I...I also have a contact...someone I met...who said they can lead us to the Autumn Court. So I can...we...can convince them to not besiege Los Angeles. But I need your help. I am a human who has...little power in the eyes of the Fae. I wish to convince them, but...I cannot do it alone. But you understand their world and...their attitudes. I need you to be a mediator. I shall bring someone else who can possibly mediate, but they will meet us at the location where we need to go...Please trust me.” He stared John in the eyes, his voice steady and soft. He needed for John to take him seriously. He hoped he would. He did not know how he would convince him that he was telling the truth, since Jonah was gone.

[Parcia]

Jonah Slaid, outskirts of China town.

He sat in the driver's seat of his truck, his Lieutenant's behind him in the back and Sofia next to him. The rest of the KJ, of the White Lotus, were gone, having been ordered to make for Bob's compound in Arizona. They took almost everything with them, and all of the KJ, most of his foot troops and his students, went with them. He sent a short text message, detailing were he was and what his intentions were.

"I intend on pleading LA's case to the Queen, I need help."
"I leave in an hour."

[Imperialisium]

John

John listened to Alexei's words, blinking his eyes as he did so, and waited till Alexei was done. He was about to reply when the apartment door flung open and out strolled Nikolai with a yawn. Not that the vampire needed to yawn. But some reflex movements still occurred in vampires subconsciously for years if not decades. Indeed, some motor ticks could last centuries. Fading physical muscle memories of their human lives.

"Ey, what have we got here!" boomed the Russian as he slapped Alexei's shoulder. A little harder than what was probably needed. "Our altar boy is alive after all. Knew it John."

John rolled his eyes and looked to the side before speaking quickly, "Alexei was telling me that the Autumn Court plans to besiege Los Angeles and that we need to go confront their Queen." Nikolai frowned for a moment and said, "Why don't we just kill her?" Causing John to raise his eye brows. Nikolai looked back and forth at both of the men before him. Human and Changeling. The Russian frowned and shrugged, "Okay, fine, we can chit chat with the Royal wench about not killing millions of people."

"Nikolai." said John curtly. The Russian vampire held up his hands quickly in mock victimization, "Okay, okay."

"We will go with you Alexei. Who is this contact you had that will lead us to her?" John said to Alexei.

It was at that moment that Alexei's phone chirped with a received text message. It seems time was being serendipitous...

But little did they know, their conversation was being watched. Not from anywhere nearby. But from the stars. In a world of red dust and blistering cold winds lashing a dying planet. A glass orb depicting the three, grasped in the hands of a plate armoured woman with raven black hair, who mused with honey sweet words, "When the cat is away...the mice will play."

[Luminesa]

John

John listened to Alexei's words, blinking his eyes as he did so, and waited till Alexei was done. He was about to reply when the apartment door flung open and out strolled Nikolai with a yawn. Not that the vampire needed to yawn. But some reflex movements still occurred in vampires subconsciously for years if not decades. Indeed, some motor ticks could last centuries. Fading physical muscle memories of their human lives.

"Ey, what have we got here!" boomed the Russian as he slapped Alexei's shoulder. A little harder than what was probably needed. "Our altar boy is alive after all. Knew it John."

John rolled his eyes and looked to the side before speaking quickly, "Alexei was telling me that the Autumn Court plans to besiege Los Angeles and that we need to go confront their Queen." Nikolai frowned for a moment and said, "Why don't we just kill her?" Causing John to raise his eye brows. Nikolai looked back and forth at both of the men before him. Human and Changeling. The Russian frowned and shrugged, "Okay, fine, we can chit chat with the Royal wench about not killing millions of people."

"Nikolai." said John curtly. The Russian vampire held up his hands quickly in mock victimization, "Okay, okay."

"We will go with you Alexei. Who is this contact you had that will lead us to her?" John said to Alexei.

It was at that moment that Alexei's phone chirped with a received text message. It seems time was being serendipitous...

But little did they know, their conversation was being watched. Not from anywhere nearby. But from the stars. In a world of red dust and blistering cold winds lashing a dying planet. A glass orb depicting the three, grasped in the hands of a plate armoured woman with raven black hair, who mused with honey sweet words, "When the cat is away...the mice will play."

Alexei - Snares in the Bushes

As Alexei stood talking with John, he was not entirely watching his back. A mistake he should have known better than to make. As he was standing against the doorway, he suddenly felt a hand hammer down on his right shoulder, and he jolted. At first, he thought the two were being apprehended, but in the split second between fear and recognition, he noted that John was not too startled. Then, he whirled around mid-thought to see Nikolai smirking down at him. It was enough that his voice belted like a bullet from a gun, but then he gave his sharp-toothed grin. Alexei had never felt entirely comfortable around Anna's torturing vampire servant, but at least he was friendly. "...It's...good to see you as well..." he whispered.

As John explained the situation to Alexei, the former Inquisitor foresaw the tangle in his plan that he had wished to avoid. Nikolai and Morri would not get along at all, since vampires hated Garou and vice-versa. He could not put Morri in danger, but he knew that bringing extra protection in Nikolai might help him. Not to mention that bringing him would potentially give him some idea of what the Queen of the Court feared. If she feared Anna, perhaps she would tell. Of course, that would be another situation Alexei would have to diffuse. He was the epicenter of many allies in the city, but those allies were hostile to each other, and as a nucleus he could only hold so much together. Perhaps I should explain first...and then gauge their reactions...

He felt a blip on his phone in his pocket, and he took out his phone. "...I'm sorry, I'll...explain in a moment...please..." As he looked down, his eyes nearly popped out of his head. Jonah. He was intending to actually go to the Queen. Alexei's heart began to run in place in his chest. An hour...but I'm meeting with Morri and Mr. Whyte...I...how... He had to redirect everything, if he was to include the Ogre, and they would need all of the help they could get. He texted him back. Where are you? I'm planning to meet by the LM. Morri and an informant who may aid us will be there. Vampire is coming along, please do not fight. While he waited for Jonah to respond, he texted Morri as well. I found Jonah. Going to see if he can meet with us. Same place, may need to change times. We have less than an hour, please go to the LM now. Now, after half a minute, he turned to look back at his compatriots. "...It looks like...we are going to have an entire party of people...but...I am going to need for both of you...to please be considerate..."

Alexei took a deep breath. "His name is Mr. Whyte. He supposedly knows about the Fae, as he is a Changeling himself. He also may know just a little about Jonah, who...just texted me. He is alive, and well, and potentially has caused a massive amount of damage, but most importantly, he may also be coming to aid us. He will have to deal with his other issues later, once the people of LA are safe. We also have...one more...and this is where I must ask for you...Nikolai..." He looked to the Russian vampire, fearing his reaction, "...I must ask you to put aside some prejudice, whether or not it actually pertains to you. Another friend of mine, with connections to the Fae...is a Garou. I...met her a couple of days ago, when I was searching for Jonah. That is...how most of this unfolded, and...she may be of some assistance. We can only do this if we are a team. So please...we must work as a unit. You are an excellent fighter, and if we do need to fight, I know I can depend on you...I will give you anything you ask in return to please work together with Morri and the rest of us."

He rubbed his temples as he slowly gave the information about his roulette of new allies. He wondered how John and Nikolai would respond. He hoped the latter would not bite off his face. "I do not know if Mr. Whyte is to be trusted...If he is not, we will have to deal with that when we get there...but Jonah...will hopefully be joining us. We need to go to Chinatown. Hopefully we will all intersect and get along as we should...and then go to save our beloved city. Can we do this together, gentlemen?"

[Morrdh]

Morri

Morri's cheap mobile beeped as a message came through and she quickly read it, seeing that it was from Alexei. She sent back a reply acknowledging the change of plans before saying her farewells to Ajax. "Gotta run, I'll pop back later fer the info."

"Sure, I'll have it ready." Ajax replied. "Though it would help if you told me what you're actually looking for."

"Sorry, tis a secret."

"Yeah, though as much."

---

Short while later Morri was moving through the streets of Chinatown in Lupus form, heading for where Alexei had said to meet up. She circled the location to check for any obvious signs of danger before finding a secluded spot to change back to Homid form. Though she she stepped closer, something made the hair on the back of her neck stand up. She growled and went to turn round when a quiet voice spoke. "Ah, Miss O'Malloy...please do take a seat."

"The others shan't be much later I suspect." Declared Mr Whyte. "Might as well make yourself comfortable whilst we wait."

[Imperialisium]

John and Nikolai

John and Nikolai had kept silent while Alexei spoke. Nikolai's eye twitching at the mention of a Garou. John's quick glance stifled any protest from the Russian Vampire, however, with the latter merely muttering something about Garou never being good luck. "Whoever goes, it does not matter, save for Nikolai of course."

"I'll hang back to help you lads have a clean escape if need be. That many Fae...I get flash backs from the 60's," replied Nikolai. John didn't give that statement a pause for thought and merely continued on, "We need not trust this Mr. Whyte. But we can still use him as needed. We must go soon if we are to catch Jonah and make this...Royal appointment."

[Luminesa]

John and Nikolai

John and Nikolai had kept silent while Alexei spoke. Nikolai's eye twitching at the mention of a Garou. John's quick glance stifled any protest from the Russian Vampire, however, with the latter merely muttering something about Garou never being good luck. "Whoever goes, it does not matter, save for Nikolai of course."

"I'll hang back to help you lads have a clean escape if need be. That many Fae...I get flash backs from the 60's," replied Nikolai. John didn't give that statement a pause for thought and merely continued on, "We need not trust this Mr. Whyte. But we can still use him as needed. We must go soon if we are to catch Jonah and make this...Royal appointment."

Alexei - On A Mission, Hopefully From God

Alexei had expected a full explosion of anger from Nikolai, at the mention of a Garou, but he kept quiet and showed only minimal anger. His eye twitched, but he did not move or make any protests that the former Inquisitor heard. Of course, he heard them when he began to mumble, but he would take mumbling over an actual fight. Alexei gave a smile and a sigh of relief, and he nodded to the duo as they seemed to go along with his plan. "If the Fae attempt any sort of attacks, then we can...definitely attempt to get away, as Nikolai says...or we can fight, if we absolutely need to fight. But only if it's an absolute need." He did not know how ready the Fae were for fighting, but he definitely wanted to make sure that everyone was prepared for such a battle. They would be fierce, and he could not anticipate how they would fight. All he knew was that they used Magic, which could be earth-shattering all in itself.

"Well...I suppose we should go. Nikolai, I need you to drive us to a place called the Lucky Moon. We need to be there within the hour," he continued. He pulled out his phone and he typed the location of the place into the GPS. "If you can fit everyone who is coming, then that would be wonderful. I believe if Jonah is coming, he will have his own vehicle. I don't know where our destination will be after the Lucky Moon. But we have to be in Chinatown in the next hour. If you can do that, please."

[Finsternia]

Silvanus
Quest: Clan of Madness

A lone man, his hair like threads of silver moonlight, is walking down a hallway, his footfalls echoing in the empty space. Tides of change are echoing in Los Angeles as foreign parties come and try to lay claim to the disfunctional supernatural order of the City of Angels. The Camarilla has broken down due to inquisitorial intervention, as well as the usual infighting between what's left of its Elders and Primogens. Whatever is happening, Silvanus has stayed wherever this new safe house that his Prince has brought him, while his agents outside played the role of spies and informants for the Malkavian Primogen and the Tremere Prince. The bite and sting of the future visions of destruction still taste like rotten blood against Silvanus' throat and tongue right now. There is something catastrophic that will befall over the city, over the Kindred of this land. The future is yet to be fully revealed to him.

As of now, he focused on his work. The Prince has now hidden him as the threat of Archons coming down would surely expose his deeds. His former haven has been raided and even with Silvanus' manic perfectionism, there would still be clues as to what he has done there. Hideous experimentation on both Kine, Kindred, and many other supernatural beings is a grave offense. But what can the Archons do when the perpetrator has vanished? Silvanus has found himself walking in front of a metal door. Everything is silent to him right now. He is alone, with nothing but his footsteps. There are no more whispers, no more sensations, no more visions. His blood is weakening. He needed allies more than ever. The knob twists open before him and the sight of an injured man, with cables, wires and tubes sticking out of his body is before him. With a wave of his hand, a chair from across the room drags itself out for the Primogen to sit on. If Mikhailov is awake, he would see Silvanus' face gaze on him. Neutral yet haggard. Undeath kept the Primogen's beauty untarnished, as well as otherworldly by his own powers, but his own weakening has made it look like the ravages of time has come to him. Darkness is slowly falling over his eyes, sinking them into pits of burning chartreuse green. Whatever is happening to the Primogen is also happening to his own clansmen, and many are wrought with weakness that they might as well be newly born babes. Silvanus stares at the injured Mage for a long while before speaking. "Since the Prince has returned you to me, I will find work for you. You are now my right hand man, Mikhailov. I need to wield your mystical powers."

Simone de Angelo
Quest: The Abandoned Consillia

"These halls feel unnatural. Space magic cannot map it easily." Simone's voice whispered from the middle of the group as his magic swept pass them in a careful pace. "I can't get any sense of the flow of Time as well... If we stay here too long, we might have been trapped here for years." However, with the help of Mind magic, Simone recalled what Astorias has mapped out of the Consillia, and the information that he has taken from here. The bestial creatures that came from the Abyss, as well was the well of Paradox that has twisted this once vibrant and lively magehold, are all deep beneath the levels of the Consillia. He doesn't know if the Paradox that has infected this place has twisted its own dimensions, but what is visible in his eyes is that the flow of Time has stalled. They must make haste. With his gun pointed onward, his senses taunt as his Mage Senses scattered forward in an attempt to figure out if they are following the right path.

[Parcia]

There comes a point in every man's life, Jonah, were he has to make a choice. The choice is simple, do the right thing, or do what needs to be done. There is a difference, Jonah. One is what you feel is right, the good option, the one that gets you what you want and helps you find peace. The other wont make you feel good, it's free of moral constraints and is the choice that is driven by hard logic. I made my choice, a long, long time ago, and I can feel the winds of Destiny shifting around you...soon Jonah, soon you will have to make you're choice.


Jonah

The rain began to come down lightly, the soft pitter patter of rain on the armored roof of the bronco bringing some measure of soothing to his otherwise on edge nerves. He took stock of him self in silence. On his gunbelt hung his .44, with around 60 custom tailored machined copper hallow points, capped by wax and filled with basilisk venom. On his shoulder holder he had his 12.7, with 3 spar stick mags, on his left hip was his Kukri and tucked in to his boot was his old K-bar.

His hammer sat in between the front seats, read to be used as needed. Sofia sat next to him, cross legged on the seat in some form of meditation. She had her old colt, tucked in to her belt and a few spare, loaded cylinders with her own special bullets ready. His two Lieutenants sat in the far back, their tactical gear replaced by a more fitting set of oriental armor. Mostly made of light silks and leathers, with a Doa clipped to their sides.

Jonah may have had little contact with his own kind outside of the pits of Fortuna, but he knew enough to know that most modern weapons weren't expected to work, given the nature of the Wyld to fuck up modern technology, and while he hoped his .44 and Sofia's .36 would still function, he knew that he could always fall back on his hammer and blades and Sofia would be even more powerful with reality as weak as it was bound to be.

Taking a deep breath, he once more took out his little Nokia phone and texted his compatriots.

<<I'm outside the white Lotus, in the Bronco with tinted windows, 30 minuets to go. Knock before you enter.>>

[Luminesa]

Silvanus
Quest: Clan of Madness

A lone man, his hair like threads of silver moonlight, is walking down a hallway, his footfalls echoing in the empty space. Tides of change are echoing in Los Angeles as foreign parties come and try to lay claim to the disfunctional supernatural order of the City of Angels. The Camarilla has broken down due to inquisitorial intervention, as well as the usual infighting between what's left of its Elders and Primogens. Whatever is happening, Silvanus has stayed wherever this new safe house that his Prince has brought him, while his agents outside played the role of spies and informants for the Malkavian Primogen and the Tremere Prince. The bite and sting of the future visions of destruction still taste like rotten blood against Silvanus' throat and tongue right now. There is something catastrophic that will befall over the city, over the Kindred of this land. The future is yet to be fully revealed to him.

As of now, he focused on his work. The Prince has now hidden him as the threat of Archons coming down would surely expose his deeds. His former haven has been raided and even with Silvanus' manic perfectionism, there would still be clues as to what he has done there. Hideous experimentation on both Kine, Kindred, and many other supernatural beings is a grave offense. But what can the Archons do when the perpetrator has vanished? Silvanus has found himself walking in front of a metal door. Everything is silent to him right now. He is alone, with nothing but his footsteps. There are no more whispers, no more sensations, no more visions. His blood is weakening. He needed allies more than ever. The knob twists open before him and the sight of an injured man, with cables, wires and tubes sticking out of his body is before him. With a wave of his hand, a chair from across the room drags itself out for the Primogen to sit on. If Mikhailov is awake, he would see Silvanus' face gaze on him. Neutral yet haggard. Undeath kept the Primogen's beauty untarnished, as well as otherworldly by his own powers, but his own weakening has made it look like the ravages of time has come to him. Darkness is slowly falling over his eyes, sinking them into pits of burning chartreuse green. Whatever is happening to the Primogen is also happening to his own clansmen, and many are wrought with weakness that they might as well be newly born babes. Silvanus stares at the injured Mage for a long while before speaking. "Since the Prince has returned you to me, I will find work for you. You are now my right hand man, Mikhailov. I need to wield your mystical powers."

Simone de Angelo
Quest: The Abandoned Consillia

"These halls feel unnatural. Space magic cannot map it easily." Simone's voice whispered from the middle of the group as his magic swept pass them in a careful pace. "I can't get any sense of the flow of Time as well... If we stay here too long, we might have been trapped here for years." However, with the help of Mind magic, Simone recalled what Astorias has mapped out of the Consillia, and the information that he has taken from here. The bestial creatures that came from the Abyss, as well was the well of Paradox that has twisted this once vibrant and lively magehold, are all deep beneath the levels of the Consillia. He doesn't know if the Paradox that has infected this place has twisted its own dimensions, but what is visible in his eyes is that the flow of Time has stalled. They must make haste. With his gun pointed onward, his senses taunt as his Mage Senses scattered forward in an attempt to figure out if they are following the right path.

Mikhailov

Sitting and letting his body heal gave him a lot of time to think. Too much time. And yet as he tried to think, his aches and pains consumed him. The missing fingernails, the bruises everywhere, his wounds which had just been cleaned to prevent infection. He was connected to more wires than he had ever seen, and when his mind slipped to how he would be able to recover soon, he kept looking back at the wires.

Steven Radcliffe’s death played over and over behind his closed eyes. He had seen people beg before him, but never someone quite like Radcliffe. He had tried to reach for him, and had died. A bloody mess at his feet. He was killed by one of his own men, and Mikhailov had felt himself swept in a passion. Something about the way Radcliffe’s body looked reminded him of...her. He felt his hands turn numb at the thought of that poor, sweet girl, but he dared not to even think of her name.

At one point, he stopped pondering on anything else anyway. When Silvanus re-entered the room, his eyes turned back to the Malkavian. He looked exhausted, as though he had spent many nights awake wondering about the happenings of Los Angeles. Mikhailov had no idea what had happened to the Malkavian clan while he was in captivity, yet he saw the lines of worry etched into the dark circles around the Primogen’s eyes. And yet his weariness, his tired-but-determined look, gave him a depth to his beauty. The silver hair glistening in the moonlight, the silhouette’s soft lips moving in a command aimed for the Mage, the darkened hue of his chartreuse eyes as their madness lay latent within. The Mage shuddered.

He rose from his chair, allowing himself to move as much as he could toward the Primogen. He could not get all the way down on one knee, as his body still stung even when he shifted in his chair. Yet he would not allow a little pain to keep him from his beloved Primogen. The icy-blue in his eyes shifted and swayed, like a river pulsing under the ice in the first throes of spring. Obsession was on his lips, in his stilted movements against the wire, in the way he gently leaned over to look Silvanus deep in the eyes.

“...Any work you give me...is a gift I shall treasure dearly...Lord Silvanus...” He whispered the name with the breathless devotion of a man who had seen an Angel. In the Mage’s twisted mind, Silvanus was an Angel. “...I shall give your tired eyes...your tired body...the clarity and strength they have lost...I will be whatever you ask...” With this vow, he leaned over and kissed Silvanus on the cheek. He was cold, like marble. In Mikhailov’s mind, he had kissed Michelangelo’s David, a masterpiece given life, a beautiful being chosen to bring about prosperity and power to the supernatural world. And the Mage would now get to play a part once again. His kiss lingered, before he leaned back and bowed deeply.

[Morrdh]

"Pacing like that will not do you any favours Miss O'Malloy." Mr Whyte called to Morri, then cocked his head for a moment as if he was listening to somebody at his shoulder. Far as Morri could tell there wasn't anyone physically there, yet she couldn't deny that there was some sort of presence that seemed to be drawn to the Changeling.

"Miss O'Malloy," Mr White called out again as he looked at Morri. "Our wait is almost at an end, you shalt be receiving a communique momentarily."

Morri gave Mr Whyte a look a moment before her cheap mobile phone beeped, quickly looking at it she saw that it was a message relayed from Jonah saying that he was waiting nearby. She sent back a brief acknowledgement, then messaged Alexei as well, before turning to ask the Changeling. "How did ye know that?"

"Trade secret." Answered Mr Whyte, already on his feet and tapping away with his damnable cane.

Tap. Tap. Tap. Tap.

Morri grumbled something Gaelic under her breath and hurried after the disappearing Changeling, hoping that this was where they would part ways or Mr Whyte could be 'convinced' to scurry away by Jonah. Once outside she was determined to think Jonah's vehicle first, but when she spotted it Mr Whyte was already there knocking on the door.

[Finsternia]

Silvanus
Quest: Clan of Madness

Months before and the time before that, the man that is feebly kneeling before the Primogen's feet is an accomplished Mage. Living for almost a century provides enough time to master a singular craft and delve into its mysteries, finding even more of such craft's secrets that are beyond one's perceived mastery. Such was Mikhailov's life. A life of prodigious potential, a life of tragedy and a journey with a thirst for power. Such man could bring down the heavens' thunderous wrath, and peer through the veils of time, yet here he is right now. Broken, shivering, wounded beyond repair if not for the mercy of the Prince of Los Angeles. He would have spent years and years and years under custody of the feeble mortals who think they are astride the world's moral compass, or dead as he could be within a month once his uses have been drained out of his mouth and tongue.

Months before this man was brought before Silvanus by the strings of Fate. The Elder' eyes could peer through the fragile veil of reality, and has found that this man has brought shame and unspeakable torture to himself in other lifetimes. They are Silvanus but not, men who bore his face but not his name, feeble creatures who wore his beauty but not his strength. Here they are right now, a mockery of such scene from a lifetime beyond the sands of time. Silvanus would have been the man who is wrapped in bandages and has tubes imbedded upon his veins, while Mikhailov would whisper sweet nothings and pulling hideous strings behind his back. But now the same hateful man is on his knees, in pain and pleading for worth, for a chance. A beautiful smile, thin and cruel behind the haggard and tired facade, blooms upon the Primogen's pale marble-like face. He is enjoying this. Now he knew why his Sire desired to see men and women alike crawling at her feet. This is worship, this is praise, this is sweet, cruel, and painful revenge. After all, not counting the many imposters who wore his name in unrealized streams of time, Mikhailov betrayed him. Yes, didn't he and Silvanus' own beloved nephew left his arms and jumped onto the Prince's side? He, too, brought agents of those baleful humans to his lair. The Elder couldn't do anything but hide in this place, bidding for his time. But Fate surely has its own way of entertainment. At last, the pawn he had his eyes on, the doll he wanted to crumple beneath his fingers, is in his hands.

Slowly, his long, scarred yet delicate fingers grabbed hold onto the blonde man's face. They were gentle yet Mikhailov could feel the hidden pressure beneath Silvanus' fingertips. His chartreuse eyes met sky blue ones. Oddly enough, there are no errant shadows, skittering visions, nor maddening voices around the Elder. His powerful psychic aura is missing, with only silence. An eerie and deafening silence hanged around Silvanus, yet as grim as his previous presence. They are truly alone, both of them. No whisperings of the blood of Malkav, only Mikhailov and a monster who lived through the ages. "Good... Good... I am glad you know now who to follow... I hope that those days of pain and misery taught you who is your true master... I am glad you finally looked at your collar for once..." The Elder's strength still has not failed him, and he lifted Mikhailov back to his feet and onto the hospital bed. He sat back, leaning against his chair, and stared straight into Mikhailov's eyes as he spoked in hushed tones. "My Clan's blood is weakening. For many days, ever since the Prince has been ousted, my Clan and I have been... tormented by visions of what is to come. It is a calamity. Both Kindred and Kine alike will burn with this city of filth... and along wth this visions my own blood and power are being drained from me. I have followed one clue, and I am waiting for another herald... I will be needing your help with this."

[Luminesa]

Silvanus
Quest: Clan of Madness

Months before and the time before that, the man that is feebly kneeling before the Primogen's feet is an accomplished Mage. Living for almost a century provides enough time to master a singular craft and delve into its mysteries, finding even more of such craft's secrets that are beyond one's perceived mastery. Such was Mikhailov's life. A life of prodigious potential, a life of tragedy and a journey with a thirst for power. Such man could bring down the heavens' thunderous wrath, and peer through the veils of time, yet here he is right now. Broken, shivering, wounded beyond repair if not for the mercy of the Prince of Los Angeles. He would have spent years and years and years under custody of the feeble mortals who think they are astride the world's moral compass, or dead as he could be within a month once his uses have been drained out of his mouth and tongue.

Months before this man was brought before Silvanus by the strings of Fate. The Elder' eyes could peer through the fragile veil of reality, and has found that this man has brought shame and unspeakable torture to himself in other lifetimes. They are Silvanus but not, men who bore his face but not his name, feeble creatures who wore his beauty but not his strength. Here they are right now, a mockery of such scene from a lifetime beyond the sands of time. Silvanus would have been the man who is wrapped in bandages and has tubes imbedded upon his veins, while Mikhailov would whisper sweet nothings and pulling hideous strings behind his back. But now the same hateful man is on his knees, in pain and pleading for worth, for a chance. A beautiful smile, thin and cruel behind the haggard and tired facade, blooms upon the Primogen's pale marble-like face. He is enjoying this. Now he knew why his Sire desired to see men and women alike crawling at her feet. This is worship, this is praise, this is sweet, cruel, and painful revenge. After all, not counting the many imposters who wore his name in unrealized streams of time, Mikhailov betrayed him. Yes, didn't he and Silvanus' own beloved nephew left his arms and jumped onto the Prince's side? He, too, brought agents of those baleful humans to his lair. The Elder couldn't do anything but hide in this place, bidding for his time. But Fate surely has its own way of entertainment. At last, the pawn he had his eyes on, the doll he wanted to crumple beneath his fingers, is in his hands.

Slowly, his long, scarred yet delicate fingers grabbed hold onto the blonde man's face. They were gentle yet Mikhailov could feel the hidden pressure beneath Silvanus' fingertips. His chartreuse eyes met sky blue ones. Oddly enough, there are no errant shadows, skittering visions, nor maddening voices around the Elder. His powerful psychic aura is missing, with only silence. An eerie and deafening silence hanged around Silvanus, yet as grim as his previous presence. They are truly alone, both of them. No whisperings of the blood of Malkav, only Mikhailov and a monster who lived through the ages. "Good... Good... I am glad you know now who to follow... I hope that those days of pain and misery taught you who is your true master... I am glad you finally looked at your collar for once..." The Elder's strength still has not failed him, and he lifted Mikhailov back to his feet and onto the hospital bed. He sat back, leaning against his chair, and stared straight into Mikhailov's eyes as he spoked in hushed tones. "My Clan's blood is weakening. For many days, ever since the Prince has been ousted, my Clan and I have been... tormented by visions of what is to come. It is a calamity. Both Kindred and Kine alike will burn with this city of filth... and along wth this visions my own blood and power are being drained from me. I have followed one clue, and I am waiting for another herald... I will be needing your help with this."

Mikhailov - Winter's Touch

Mikhailov stood over Silvanus for a few moments, but his body was beginning to ache. With his lack of stamina, he found himself dropping to his knees, and the pain seared his bones as he fell. Yet he did not show this pain on his face. In fact, he hardly realized that the pain was there. In his mind, all he felt was the rush of obsession. He needed to keep Silvanus alive. Everything in the Mage's body told him that the Malkavian was all that mattered. Every nerve, every atom that had dulled since his imprisonment sprung back to life. His eyes shone with a shocking light, almost as though the Malkavian had transferred his madness to him.

The Malkavian's smile only brought more of this sensation down over Mikhailov. He felt the cold, the shaking, the sweating come down on him like a heavy hammer. He felt the fever of need. The vampire looked into his eyes, and the obsession became an unspoken devotion. The words he had heard in his mind, the ones he had spoken, and the ones he breathed all came together in one sigh. The silence was eerie, and unusual, but within that silence, the Mage's mind filled with commands from some other place. His heart pounded. “...Lord Silvanus...I...” He forgot what he wished to say, as he felt Silvanus caress his face.

Just barely did he feel the burning sensation of Silvanus's soft fingers on his cheeks, and his eyes flickered to them. Scarred, ethereal, and yet still gentle. Still gifted with the touch of an artist, of someone who knew how to lure a heart back, he had pulled Mikhailov to right back where he was a year ago. The Mage had tried desperately to look strong, willful, and independent. He had a reputation. He had acted all on his own when he had led VASCU to their doom, and even Radcliffe’s horrid fate faded from his mind for a while. All of it turned to dust between Silvanus’s fingers. The Mage closed his eyes and let the façade fall. Underneath the cool, cold exterior was a man who enjoyed the sensation of being taken from the world and into some secret place, where he was himself.

"...Anything you want...Anything..." he murmured, listening carefully to the instructions Silvanus gave. The words fell from his lips, as he managed to regain the strength to speak. He needed Mikhailov now, more than ever. He was seeing a terrible future, and needed the Mage's help to avert this bad ending. "...What is the first clue...and...what do you need from me. I'll do anything you want." Opening his eyes, he pulled himself to Silvanus and gave him another kiss on the cheek. Alexei somewhere would be shocked by this disturbing, intimate scene, but the Mage's mind was focused on only one person in the world at the moment.

"...I'll kill anyone or anything you ask...We'll end this threat...together..." The soft, rasping growl of a caged animal now freed came to his voice at the end. He had lost one gun, but he had not lost them all. The thrill of murdering Silvanus’s enemies in the name of twisted love overwhelmed him. “...Lord Silvanus...I love you...”

[Parcia]

Jonah

And soon enough, the window would be lowered, with the visage of the Duke of China town leveling a large revolver on the other Changling. For a tense moment it hung there, before he sniffed the air and lowered it. "Whyte, what do ye want, I sent word for you to get the hell out of LA a while back."

Then he would sniff the air again, and pick up the familiar smells of Bailey's Irish Creme and wet dog, leaning out the door, he spied a familiar red head bounding up to his Bronco. "Oie, Lucky Charms, get in the back." Turning to Whyte, he shrugged. "No offense Whyte, but I only have room for three more and Im expecting as many...if you find you're own transportation you're welcome to fallow me out of L.A"

[Kingdom of Irhk]

Morri

Meanwhile at the Irishman's Rest

Cal quietly slipped Connor a note, placing it on the table by the Garou's beer mug before quietly slipping out of the pub before the Pack Alpha erupted. The note, was handwritten.

Gone to meet a Priest about some Fae at the Ogre's place.

Get your arse over there if you wanna save the city.

M.

Connor Mac Domhnaill

Another day came to rise in the city that became his circle of hell. Tensions seemed to be rising everywhere, and so far, his bar wasn't torched down, which was the first good sign of his morning... And it was abruptly cut by a note signed by a certain "M". In his experience, M could mean lots of things. But the urgency in saving the city along with the single letter could only point to one certain young redhead with a very... exquisite luck.

Telling Cat to run things in his absence, he picked up a pistol before hopping inside his car and found himself in another goose chase after Morri as he circled the Lotus looking for the little troublemaker, until he found her pacing outside the Kuei-Jin's HQ.

"Morri, Morri... What's this business about Fae and saving the city?"

[Morrdh]

"Mr Slaid." Mr Whyte replied in his softly spoken voice. "As cordial as ever."

"I have vested interests in this city that I cannot simply drop on a whim." Continued the Changeling. "Interests that are in jeopardy due to the actions of the Court."

"Though do not fret, I have ways and means to enable my person to reach the Court." Stated Mr Whyte before he turned round and started walking away, his walking stick tapping on the ground as he went.

Tap. Tap. Tap. Tap.

"Ye know that freak?" Morri asked Jonah soon as she was certain that Mr Whyte was out of earshot, though before she could get an answer a car pulled up.

"Morri, Morri... What's this business about Fae and saving the city?"

"Wot took ye so long?" Asked Morri as Connor approached. "And yeah, one o' the Fae Courts is gearing up ta attack and destroy this city."

"Means alot o' good watering holes are gonna get wiped out." Morri added. "Oh and woe ta Gaia fer all the Kinfolk us wolves are gonna lose."

[Imperialisium]

John and Nikolai

John and Nikolai had pulled up in John's 69' Mach 1 Mustang. The Russian vampire puffing on a cigar and swigging from a clear glass bottle wrapped in a brown paper bag. John often wondered how much vitae the kindred spent in digesting that. Not that he'd be getting drunk from it of course. But still...Guess old habits die hard. Stepping out of the vehicle John moved over to the white Bronco. Nikolai following closely with his cigar clamped between his lips. His fangs barely visible between his lips.

"Mr. Whyte I assume." said John.

"Hey! Who the fuck is the red head?" blurted out Nikolai.

"Nikolai." interjected John quickly. The Russian shrugged and let the smoke of his cigar fume out of his nose like some alcoholic undead dragon. "Eh, just putting names to faces, John."

John didn't give that an answer as he nodded to Jonah. "Nikolai will hang back to assist in any impromptu escapes. I'll be following in my own vehicle."

Outside The Abandoned Consilia

Outside the Consilia the forms of the four heavily armed and armoured figures slowly encircled the building. Before eventually coalescing into a semi-circle facing the front doors. One peered through advanced spectacles that responded to blink-clicks to change their fields of view from infrared, ultraviolet, echo location, and thermal, then on to X-ray as he peered through the outer walls of the complex. The wards and defenses being picked up by his optical finders on the more reality deviant specific settings.

"I have one out front." whispered one of the troopers into the communications net. Indeed, they had eyes on the Archmage. Their Technocratic gear's camoflage assisting them in getting close. As the mages they fought where not the only ones capable of approaching objectives unseen. But by different methods. While the Mages used more arcane methods in their arsenals. The soldiers of the Technocratic Union used their advanced technological edge when conducting field operations.

"Copy that. Identified as structure typical of Pentacle Orders. Relaying data-packet to T.U.S. Nova York. Standby."

A trio of communication clicks signaled that everyone else in the unit had received the order to standby from what could only be assumed to be a Sergeant. His rank chevrons on his gear setting him apart from the rest.

[Luminesa]

John and Nikolai

John and Nikolai had pulled up in John's 69' Mach 1 Mustang. The Russian vampire puffing on a cigar and swigging from a clear glass bottle wrapped in a brown paper bag. John often wondered how much vitae the kindred spent in digesting that. Not that he'd be getting drunk from it of course. But still...Guess old habits die hard. Stepping out of the vehicle John moved over to the white Bronco. Nikolai following closely with his cigar clamped between his lips. His fangs barely visible between his lips.

"Mr. Whyte I assume." said John.

"Hey! Who the fuck is the red head?" blurted out Nikolai.

"Nikolai." interjected John quickly. The Russian shrugged and let the smoke of his cigar fume out of his nose like some alcoholic undead dragon. "Eh, just putting names to faces, John."

John didn't give that an answer as he nodded to Jonah. "Nikolai will hang back to assist in any impromptu escapes. I'll be following in my own vehicle."

Outside The Abandoned Consilia

Outside the Consilia the forms of the four heavily armed and armoured figures slowly encircled the building. Before eventually coalescing into a semi-circle facing the front doors. One peered through advanced spectacles that responded to blink-clicks to change their fields of view from infrared, ultraviolet, echo location, and thermal, then on to X-ray as he peered through the outer walls of the complex. The wards and defenses being picked up by his optical finders on the more reality deviant specific settings.

"I have one out front." whispered one of the troopers into the communications net. Indeed, they had eyes on the Archmage. Their Technocratic gear's camoflage assisting them in getting close. As the mages they fought where not the only ones capable of approaching objectives unseen. But by different methods. While the Mages used more arcane methods in their arsenals. The soldiers of the Technocratic Union used their advanced technological edge when conducting field operations.

"Copy that. Identified as structure typical of Pentacle Orders. Relaying data-packet to T.U.S. Nova York. Standby."

A trio of communication clicks signaled that everyone else in the unit had received the order to standby from what could only be assumed to be a Sergeant. His rank chevrons on his gear setting him apart from the rest.

Alexei - Peacemaking in War Time

Alexei sat in the back of Nikolai's car, trying not to choke on cigar smoke as he stared out the window. Coughing was his nature reaction, though he also wanted to cover his nose with his scarf. Very slowly, he tried to pull his scarf up over his mouth and nose, until only his eyes were visible behind the scarf. He occasionally checked his phone for messages from Morri, and when he had heard where she was going, he directed for Nikolai to head straight to the White Lotus. Apparently the entire party would be present, and thus now came his time to shine, to unite the different factions together for a common goal.

As Nikolai's car screeched to a halt, the former Inquisitor stepped out of the door and released a single loud cough. He then gave a few softer ones, as he straightened his cardigan and adjusted his scarf. and he looked around. Jonah, Mr. Whyte, and Morri were all present. Surprisingly, Connor had also arrived, and Alexei smiled at him as if to say, I'm glad you could come. He gave a sympathetic look to Morri, as he knew that she was probably as nervous as anyone could be in such circumstances. He wanted to be back at his apartment with her, just watching TV, but now the moment of truth was approaching like a headlight in the distance. He stared at Nikolai as smoke came out of his nose, and a chill ran down his spine. The atmosphere was dangerous and tense. "...Nikolai...this is Morri," he explained, nodding to her as the vampire asked about her. He then looked at the rest of the group. "...You all know Jonah...and the...third member of this group is our Mr. Whyte." He gave an acknowledging nod to Mr. Whyte, making sure not to show any signs of weakness as he eyed him.

He then turned to face the entire group. He gave a sigh. "...Well...that should make all of us, then..." He approached Mr. Whyte, and handed him the book in his backpack. The pages were browned by time, and almost as crushable as fallen leaves, but he had wrapped it delicately in a leather-binding to protect it. Alexei knew he was paying a price, but he felt one small weight fall off his shoulders as he handed away the book. "...We are going to face the Autumn Court. We are...not fighting here for our own personal goals, except for that of...preserving our home. This is a home for all of us, whether we like this place or not...And its destruction will break apart not only our lives, but the lives of many others on a larger scale, in your own factions and elsewhere. This is a threat...none of us could face alone..." As he spoke, he gazed at everyone in the group. More often than not, however, his eyes flickered between Jonah, Nikolai, Mr. Whyte, and Connor. John and Morri would be easy to bring along, but the aforementioned quartet of characters were all hotheaded, with their own plans and undercurrents. Alexei had to rally them together as best as he could.

"...Tonight, we must plead for our lives. We must have only enough pride to walk this frightening path...and to know that any sacrifices we make are for the greater good of those we love...But otherwise, we must be humble, and grounded. We must show no weakness, but we must not fight when there is not a fight. All of us...we will have roles to play. If we must battle, then we shall. Together...If we can speak our way to save the city, however...and prevent a massive loss of life...then that is the path we must take first," he reasoned. Alexei's voice was once again soft, but just loud and commanding enough to draw attention. He did, after all, have just a little of his uncle's charisma, though he normally was not good at using it.

With these words having been spoken, Alexei turned to Mr. Whyte. "...You will lead the way. I have given you what you have wanted. If you do not follow with your promise...as I have given exactly as I said I would...You will be my offering of the night to God. I am sure you will be able to help us, given your extensive knowledge. Jonah and Morri know more about the Fae than I do, however, and I would appreciate if you help them as well. My word stands, if you do not. So please...guide us."

Epeiosa - Bullets In The Gun

With Simone leading his team through the darkened Consilia, Epeiosa could not stop shivering. Even while she stood outside with Astorias, she could feel some forces were coming close from all sides. Not only did the two Mages have to fight whatever was trying to come through the cracks of the Abyss, but they were potentially being watched. Epeiosa could not shake that feeling. Ever since she had left Endymion behind, she could feel that eyes were always on her, waiting for her to make the wrong move. Waiting for her to realize some horrendous mistake and to fly back to Arcadia. Yet she could not go back. She needed to be here, to help Astorias however she could. He had progressed in his own skills greatly, but she had struggled. She could only support him, and perhaps figure the actions she needed to take along the way.

Yet with the sweat dripping down her back, face, and neck, and with her sweaty palms holding a Magical dagger she had sneaked into the building, she could only do so much. She had to gather herself, to focus, to prove that she too could help save the world from an impossible evil. The strong sense of justice she held, that same passion that had Awakened her powers as a Thyrsus, pushed her just enough to stand her ground, as she waited to see Simone again. As time stopped and looped over and over, she could not tell when that time would be. "...Astorias...Wh-Whatever is in there is...is horrible...I can feel it...Is there...anything...that we can do to save Simone?...Or...to stop whatever is coming?...Please...tell me you can do something," she questioned, her voice a frightened whisper.

[Morrdh]

"Who's the leech?" Morri growled, taking a slightly aggressive stance as she stared at Nikolai." It stinks o' Wyrm taint."

"Ye keep strange company Alexei." She added, relaxing her posture a little but still keeping a wary eye on the Kindred. "Though I'd think twice 'fore trusting a ollphéist fola."

"Mr Korvinus." Mr Whyte nodded to John before turning to Alexei. "Yes, our agreed payment Mr Bancroft."

The Changeling took the offered book, his hand caressed the leather-binding for a moment as he appeared to speak under his breath and had his head cocked as if he was listening to some invisible figure by his shoulder. After a moment he simply nodded and secreted the book away in one of his pockets before speaking direct to Alexei. "The payment meets with...satisfaction Mr Bancroft."

"The agreement, Mr Bancroft, was that I take you to the Court and present the necessary introductions....no more, no less." Mr Whyte stated, his softly spoken voice having a cold and hard edge to it. "Also, I'd be obliged if you did not make such empty-handed threats."

"Now if everyone is present, let us set forth."

[Imperialisium]

John and Nikolai

John smirked at Morri's comment while Nikolai crinkled his nose for a moment. "Sure that muzzle of yours is workin' right there mutt?" Nikolai moved over to Jonah, placing a hand above the window and leaning in close, the Ogre smelling the tobacco scent of his speech, "Between you and me. I'm not so sure about this Whyte guy. He becomes baggage, I'm droppin' him." The Russian chomped on his cigar as he stood and followed John back into the latter's car. The Changeling hitman revving the engine as he pulled into position to follow Jonah out. John offering nothing but a nod to Mr. Whyte regarding the transaction that he had just witnessed.

The Abandoned Consilia

Indeed, the forces at work, that had long seeped its toxic corruption into the grounds of the Consilia. The deeper the Mages went, the more they where there, the more the calling horror of the abyssal darkness gnawed at their consciousness. One of the Mages jerked to the left, raising his pistol, "Did you hear that!" Another steadied his arm, "It is this place. The black touch of that portal is corrupting our senses. We must hurry."

A fierce screech and down the hall, rushing towards the mages, a pair of loping forms gave a shrill high pitch roar. Their voices of such tone and coursing acoustics that the skin of the Mages crawled. Like hundred nails being dragged across a chalk board. The Mages opened fire. One was downed in a flurry of bullets. Then a second as it leapt mid air. Crashing before Simones feet. A third screech and a shrill cry. One of the male mages at the back screamed a blood curdling cry as a third beat had snuck up and struck! Grasping the man's calf in its powerful jaws, tearing skin, muscle, and sinew. Tooth etching grisly sketches on the man's tibia as it flung him on his back and dragged him along. The Mages made to fire but a fourth, a fifth, and then a sixth beast began to bound down the hall from their rear. Reinforcing their comrade. A trio of mages opened fire but they were evidently outnumbered and running out of time.

"Run!" said the oldest Mage as he bolted down the corridor and past the corpses of the first two beasts killed. The others followed suit as the cries of their downed comrade turned to curdling gurgles. The creatures shredding his body slowly like a cadaver flung into an industrial shredder.

Near Queen Aeron's camp

Near The Changeling Army's disguised encampment was a low bald hill. Once upon a time it had held a tumulus of magical stones arranged in a circle. A solar dial that channeled the powers of nature and provided a nexus of Dreaming energy in the physical plane. Now, to mortal eyes it was an empty grassy hillock of sickly brown weeds and brambles. To those looking slightly past the veils of reality into the point of when the Near Dreaming and Fallen World met. The ruins of the tumulus being given to partially covered slabs of neolithic stone. Many broken and collapsed.

A raven haired woman, the Changeling sorceress who had been the envoy to Jonah, walked in a semi-circle around a stone slab table. Partially covered in moss and twigs. A crack had split the table into two. But by sheer weight the table had remained close enough together. Before her a crystal orb had been placed and various animal bones placed about in a distinct circular pattern. She was mumbling something in a dark tongue as she held her staff beside her. Scrying, as image coalesced in the orb and into her mind. Her brow furrowed as she moved deeper. Searching, searching for someone specific that had yet to be shown in this grand drama that was now outplaying.

The scenery switching to a dying sky strewn by red dust covering everything. The vision displayed in the orb moving towards an unfathomably tall mountain and past the forms of toiling workers. To a woman standing before a doorway. Raven haired, like the sorceress, but clad in ornate armour with a black cape and a swore at her hip. The vision of the orb shifted as it began to glow a whispy orange and yellow. Twirling in a haze barely contained in the Orb's transparent surface. The raven hair shifted abruptly to display electric green eyes. Peering from the orb and latching onto the Changeling Sorceress. Horrible whispering pierced from the orb as it blazed a brilliant white hot flamed. Cascasing rapidly along its surface as those malevolent green eyes carved their gaze into those of the sorceress. The sorceress clutched her skull violently and fought to move near the orb. An unknown energy pulsed from the orb, forcing her to stumble back, she let out a crying wail!

I..see...you

The voice came from the orb itself as it began to slowly hover. The flames now extending like a solar flare to wick at the brown grass and twigs. Giving them over to smolder and orange scorch.

Caladrielle...

"Hnng, get out of my head!" The Changeling Sorceress flung herself forward and with her staff brought down in a fierce arc. Smashed the orb into a thousand glittering pieces. The vision, the flames, and the voice was no more.

[Morrdh]

John smirked at Morri's comment while Nikolai crinkled his nose for a moment. "Sure that muzzle of yours is workin' right there mutt?"

Morri

"Me claws work better." Answered Morri. "Many leeches, including a nossie and a gangrel, can attest ta that."

"But we gots ta go politely ask some mad Fae ta kindly not destroy this city and I've just had me nails done." Morri added. "So let's agree ta dislike and ignore one another."

~ ~ ~

"So...." Morri muttered after she'd climbed into whichever vehicle Alexei had gotten into. "Wot's the plan?"

"I mean I presume there's a plan beyond 'knock on the gate and hope they answer." She continued. "I hope there's a plan, otherwise this is gonna be a gigantic waste o' both fuel and time. I could be doing other things, ye like washing me hair, evacuating all the kinfolk, redecorating Alexei's apartment. That sort o' stuff."

[Luminesa]

John smirked at Morri's comment while Nikolai crinkled his nose for a moment. "Sure that muzzle of yours is workin' right there mutt?"

Morri

"Me claws work better." Answered Morri. "Many leeches, including a nossie and a gangrel, can attest ta that."

"But we gots ta go politely ask some mad Fae ta kindly not destroy this city and I've just had me nails done." Morri added. "So let's agree ta dislike and ignore one another."

~ ~ ~

"So...." Morri muttered after she'd climbed into whichever vehicle Alexei had gotten into. "Wot's the plan?"

"I mean I presume there's a plan beyond 'knock on the gate and hope they answer." She continued. "I hope there's a plan, otherwise this is gonna be a gigantic waste o' both fuel and time. I could be doing other things, ye like washing me hair, evacuating all the kinfolk, redecorating Alexei's apartment. That sort o' stuff."

Alexei - Into the Bright Unknown

Hearing Morri and Nikolai jab at each other raised Alexei's blood pressure just a smidge, especially when he had finished his speech, as he realized he would not be able to get them to try and like each other. All he could hope to do was to make sure they worked together long enough to save Los Angeles. He sighed, and he sat on the edge of the car as he spoke to the rest of the group. "It will be a dialogue, I hope. I don't know what their reasons are. I don't think I will be able to entirely understand them. But perhaps we can find a way to agree on something. If Jonah knows more than we do, perhaps he can explain what he thinks the issue is. But as for the rest of us, what to do if things go South, right?..."

He tapped his chin and shifted his feet. "Fae probably like gifts, yes? Offerings of a sort? I...I did bring something, but it's in my bag. It's not necessarily a bribe, just a gift to show that we do not mean any ill will. After all, our job is to restore the balance, which the Fae presence would greatly shift in our...chaotic little world..." Alexei explained, as he looked to the rest of the group, "...Nikolai, you will drive behind us, staying close enough behind us so that the Fae, or any hostile Changelings, do not believe we are coming to invade. I do not know what they believe the problem to be, though I doubt they like vampires very much at all. The fact that Morri and Jonah may be able to speak to them is a miracle in itself.

He then looked to Mr. Whyte. "I do not know if you would be willing, given you are already guiding us there, to perhaps help us to negotiate. If you are not, then at the very least you will have done the job I have asked of you. But...if you are willing, I would like more individuals around me...who can best explain why we are here. Which is exactly that. We wish to protect our home, and we want to see it stable and peaceful somehow. Specifically, I do want it to be stable and peaceful, eventually. But that is the argument we will use. If we must fight..." He looked around at the group. "...We do have plenty of fighters...I do not know how the Fae react to Faith...or to other forms of Magic. But we will make sure Jonah, Nikolai, and I are on the forefront. But we will do our best to prevent that situation first. So without further ado...Jonah? Mr. Whyte? If you could lead us..." He then sat in Jonah's car, buckled himself, and adjusted his bag on his arm. He was glad Morri was sitting in the car with him. Her comment about wanting to re-decorate his apartment was a funny little comment, a comforting one. As he looked ahead into the night, he found himself reaching for her hand and squeezing it.

[Morrdh]

He then looked to Mr. Whyte. "I do not know if you would be willing, given you are already guiding us there, to perhaps help us to negotiate. If you are not, then at the very least you will have done the job I have asked of you. But...if you are willing, I would like more individuals around me...who can best explain why we are here. Which is exactly that. We wish to protect our home, and we want to see it stable and peaceful somehow. Specifically, I do want it to be stable and peaceful, eventually. But that is the argument we will use. If we must fight..." He looked around at the group. "...We do have plenty of fighters...I do not know how the Fae react to Faith...or to other forms of Magic. But we will make sure Jonah, Nikolai, and I are on the forefront. But we will do our best to prevent that situation first. So without further ado...Jonah? Mr. Whyte? If you could lead us..." He then sat in Jonah's car, buckled himself, and adjusted his bag on his arm. He was glad Morri was sitting in the car with him. Her comment about wanting to re-decorate his apartment was a funny little comment, a comforting one. As he looked ahead into the night, he found himself reaching for her hand and squeezing it.

"Mr Bancroft." Replied Mr Whyte. "Any partaking of my person with regards to any negotiations with the Court would be...futile."

"The mere presence of my kin and I makes other Fae feel...uncomfortable." Mr Whyte stated, prompting Morri to mutter something under her breath. "Something that would hardly be conductive for reaching an concord with the Court."

"As I have already stated Mr Bancroft, I would guide you there." Continued Mr Whyte. "No more, no less."

[Parcia]

Jonah and Company.

Suddenly, his little Nokia phone would ring. Answering it, he would be greeted by a familiar voice. "We have arrived safely, the man here is asking questions, but we have been able to convince him to trust us." Jonah nodded, "Good, fortify that position and prepare for possible assault." With that, he hung up and started the engine in his Bronco.

Not really caring who he was talking to, he yelled out. "Alright, bus is fuckin leaving, hop in and buckle up chuckle fucks, we got some diplomacy to do." On cue, the doors would be opened by his two Keui-jin before they would climb in to the far back to make room for at least 4 people, or 6 if they squeezed in.

[Imperialisium]

Los Angeles State Forest

The Los Angeles State Forest was a large expanse of almost intact wilderness. Threaded only by the occasional two lane road and inhabited by a few folk rich enough or old enough to have domiciles in such a locale. Needless to say once the lights of the metropolis straddling the Pacific Coast of Southern California the only luminesce available was the light of their headlights and the sickly glow of the Moon. Its light dimmed but not quite smothered by the air pollution provided by the urban sprawl of Los Angeles and San Diego further South. Casting a stark contrast of sharp artificiality and the sombre cosmic stellar.

The rumble of tires as the caravan of vehicles journeyed further into the forest. Pulling off onto a single lane dirt road the caravan moved on. A blur of motion only disturbing the rumbling progress. As the passenger door of the mustang opened and closed quickly. A shadowy figure dashing into the underbrush. The caravan continued on another two miles until a they came to an especially thick portion of forest beneath a sharp hillock. The vehicles lights flickered and they wisely stopped. Not wishing their cars to shit the bed completely for when they would have to leave.

Stepping out of the mustang a man in a dark suit and raven black hair moved softly through the gloom. Moving as he was joined by a lumbering man, a young man of bright persona, a red head lass, and another strong man of wolfish fierceness about him. Other members of the party moved forth and passing into a brief clearing they suddenly were illuminated by torchlight. A pair of shadowy figures with bows stepping into view. In truth they were swiftly surrounded by over a dozen archers all ready. But no assault came. Rather, the two arches that stepped out parted to allow the party to pass. Allowing them to go deeper among the path until they entered the forest once more. Circumventing a small pond of unusual clarity. The glow of fireflies dancing above the mirror smooth glass surface of the water. Until they passed around half the hillock and there before them was an encampment of dozens, possibly hundreds of tents. The magic that shielded such a place from Human eyes was surely strong.

There, thistle down hair and draped in fine clothing under a gilded crown, sat Queen Aeron. The Lady of all Pacifica and technically suzerain of every Changeling within its borders.

"You may approach and speak!" she bellowed in an unusually sing song pleasant voice. Signaling the arrival of the group to come forth.