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Reality Fault

Realms: NachtMusik Logs

"Strange Highways"

    The departure and arrival area of the Heavenside terminus of War's Tether is within earshot of the Dueling Grounds, and through the Groves' massive trunks one can hear the sound of crossed steel and raised voices. The Tether stands as a large five-pointed star outlined with stones in a clearing of low grass. Several Michaelite Cherubs stand watch, one of whom is checking names and faces against his list of authorized departures. He waves the group over. "I've got one Shateishael, Seraph of Stone, one Taygeta, Kyriotate of Lightning, annnnnd... one Mercurian of," he suppresses a snort, "Flowers."

Shateishael stands quietly with his arms folded, waiting. He nods once to the Cherub as his name is called. Taygeta says, "Here -- that would be me," to the Cherub as his name is read. He looks at the others curiously.

Rosenstern waits briefly for the Cherub to say his name, but when it's perfectly clear that's not going to happen, he gives the slightest of shrugs and a silent sigh. This sort of treatment is to be expected, and it hasn't changed in several thousand years. "Aye," he says quietly. Shateishael nods to Rosenstern once also, recognizing him, should the Novalite meet his eyes. Rosen looks around, and notices the nod. He blinks in surprise -- then smiles and nods in return, his mood lifting slightly after the Michaelite's derision, at seeing a familiar face.

The Cherub waves the group over, directing them to the star. "This way, quickly please, this way." He begins a brief safety lecture delivered with a speed and diction that only comes with having to say it over and over. "You've all done this before so I'll make this quick, hands and arms inside the stones at all times once manifestation is initiated there is no going back you will manifest at the Earthside terminus in the Alamo you may be slightly separated from one another when you arrive some disorientation is normal and temporary enjoy the ride NEXT!"

Shateishael grins at the high-speed patter, and moves promptly when told. "You can drop at any time, gentlemen." Shateishael drops. Rosenstern has indeed done this sort of thing before, though not recently through Michael's Tether. He moves quickly with the other two, and plunges down the Tether with them... Taygeta shifts, dropping through the Tether too...

One thing about going Earthside. The trip down is fast. Really fast. War's Tether swirls straight down, and the imminent Celestial sensation of all that energy of Earth speeding up to meet you is disconcertingly reminiscent of skydiving sans safety gear. The stop at the end, however, doesn't kill you. There's a brief bright flash. As each angel's eyes clear, his Vessel appears to be in... a bathroom stall.

Shateishael grins broadly -- now that was a fun ride! He'll have to hang out with Michaelites more, he thinks... he casually flushes the toilet for camouflage, and steps out, looking around and hitching his big backpack up onto a shoulder. The Kyriotate, however, passes immediately through the stall into the bathroom proper. Stone walls in the bathroom, strangely enough, but a tall blonde man in a dark Southwestern shirt, jeans, and boots is leaning against the wall here. He grins a little at nothing in particular and says quietly, "Your ride's here. Go easy on the merchandise now."

Rosenstern looks around, not terribly surprised. Novalite Tethers tend to end up in places that are... better smelling, though. Hearing the flush, he follows suit, flushing the commode before stepping out of the stall, and catches the man's words. Taygeta enters the human, then stretches, checking out the Vessel he's been assigned for now. He looks around with the human's eyes and reorients himself to the new viewpoint, then shrugs and leaves the bathroom, looking around for his fellow Celestials. Shateishael watches curiously, idly assessing the man's physical form, and what sort of fighter he likely is.

This is a small room, stone walls like the rest of the place, wooden floors and tables scattered around. There are a few people milling around here. However, at one table in particular is sitting a man in a very dark suit, facing the door the angels have just entered from. He waves them over to his table.

Shateishael runs a slow hand down the stone walls, appreciating the feel... then smoothly weaves his way through tables to the table indicated. He turns the chair around, slips the backpack off to rest at his feet, then settles comfortably on the chair with his arms folded across the back. "Hey." He doesn't bother offering his hand in greeting. Doesn't seem... right somehow.

Rosenstern glances around with a bit of a frown. No flowers... kind of a dismal place. Well, we won't be here for long, fortunately. He makes his way over to the table where Davidson -- Nono, Shateishael! -- is with... someone. As he makes his way closer he feels distinctly uncomfortable. Flowers didn't say anything about anyone like this... He nods politely, settling into a seat, too disturbed to really speak. Taygeta joins the table with the dark-clothed human, slipping into a chair beside the husky blond fellow. He frowns at the psychic miasma the dark one exudes and limits his greeting to a nod.

The man sits very, very straight in his chair, hands folded on the table. His suit is very finely tailored and extremely dark; coat, shirt and tie all the same light-absorbent shade. His hair is combed straight back, and his features look as if someone carved them with a scalpel. His eyes are nearly black, and elicit a feeling of unease when he makes eye contact. The more perceptive among the group note a peculiar pattern on his tie; seven small red ovals. No, not ovals... eyes. Shateishael frowns quietly at the tie, then looks up at what he suspects is a balseraph, his face bland and patient.

The man looks around. "I take it you're all here." His voice is deeper than his build would suggest. "I prefer to brief new arrivals to this city personally, if I am able."

Shateishael blinks slowly... Dominic?! He wonders why he's not 'feeling' anything in the Symphony in regards to this person... and how many other strange folks are around here as well?

Rosenstern hasn't quite made the connection just yet, but his feeling of foreboding has not ebbed one bit, no matter how quietly the man is speaking. However -- he glances to Shateishael, noticing the Davidian's slow blink, the most expression of surprise he's ever seen that one ever show -- (a) this person is probably on their side and (b) they're not in immediate danger. He wonders just who this person is, then... Taygeta nods again. "I believe this is all of us for now."

Rosenstern's eyes widen slowly. "Oh, my..." he can't help but murmur. Judgement. Here. I'm sitting in front of Judgement. He manages to repress a shiver. Oh, Lady... why didn't you tell me he was going to be here? Shateishael grins quietly to himself. From that reaction from the Novalite, he'd guess his guess is right on the money, as the humans put it. He waits silently for the archangel to brief them.

The man continues then. "This is Austin. The so-called Truce City. As you are no doubt aware, things are done... somewhat differently in this city. And while I personally do not approve... some things must simply be dealt with as they are. And so here I am. To wit: demons, in Austin, are regarded as... allies. Association or fraternization with them is not uncommon or particularly frowned upon. I am here to remind you, however, that they are not your friends, that they are still creatures of the inferno and should not under any circumstances be trusted or relied upon. I trust that we are all clear on that?"

Shateishael nods quietly, once. Taygeta says, "Abundantly -- most clear, sir." Rosenstern nods, quickly.

Thessaloniki meanders through the building, looking at the signs, and reading all the details. He's also looking closely at all the people, as if he's looking for someone he knows, but hasn't met. When he sees the group at the table, he starts, then smiles, ambling over.

Dominic nods, then notes as an aside to the Kyriotate, "You should take care of that quickly; it will stand out among the Infernals." He looks up at the older gentleman as he reaches the table. "And you are?"

Taygeta nods to Dominic, not trusting himself to stay on a single track. I really was not expecting this as an arrival meeting.

Shateishael looks up also, then brightens noticeably, "Ted! Ted, you old reprobate, how're you doing?!" He stands up and throws his arms around the guy enthusiastically, "Hey, good to see you! What're you going by now?"

Dominic steeples his fingers, thumbs under his chin, and waits patiently. Rosenstern blinks in surprise, looking up as Shateishael greets the new arrival -- a Celestial? -- with cheer that he would not have expected from the Davidian.

Thessaloniki smiles, and says, "Slate!" and returns the hug warmly, saying, "Been a long time, hasn't it?" and adds, "Going by Nick lately." When the Man In Black asks him a question, he smiles and says, "Theodore Nicholson, a pleasure to meet you, sir." He offers a hand to the seated man to shake, as is the current human custom, smiling pleasantly, either unaware or not caring who this may be.

Shateishael turns with the new arrival towards the table, grinning in real, genuine pleasure, "Everyone, this is Nick, an old friend from a while ago. Nick, that's Rosenstern, this is a Dominator whose name I've not gotten yet, and this is er... Judgement." His voice is carefully pitched low, so as to not carry.

Dominic does not shake the offered hand. "I see that you are acquainted."

Rosenstern nods pleasantly, smiling, feeling a bit more relaxed in Nick's presence. "Hey, there, good to meet you!"

Shateishael's smile is quirky as he re-seats himself. Wryly he notes, "We're being briefed, Nick. Have a seat for a moment?"

Thessaloniki smiles and lets his hand drop easily in to one of the pockets of his bright cardigan, and says, "Yep. Small world, isn't it?" At the suggestion, he does sit down, asking a little more quietly, "What brings y'all to Austin?"

Taygeta nods. "This and... that. I am Taygeta, currently known as Aric." He is concentrating on letting only one facet speak at the same time, and hesitates only once.

Dominic clears his throat softly. "If we may conclude this quickly, I have work to do. Introductions can wait."

Shateishael grins a quiet, small grin to himself again, and nods politely to the archangel, "Of course. Your pardon." Thessaloniki crosses his legs, and folds his hands over his knee, looking attentively at the archangel, still smiling pleasantly. Rosenstern's smile disappears, as he switches his complete nervous attention back to Dominic. Taygeta turns his attention back to the Archangel.

The man in the dark suit continues, "I want you all to know that fraternization with the Other Side is unavoidable while in this city. However, you are not alone, of course, and any necessary counseling or confession may be had at the Department of Public Safety, or with the clerks at St. Michael's. We're in the book." With that, he gives the group a small wave. "I'm done with you now. We will be in touch."

Shateishael smiles lazily again, but simply nods politely to the archangel. Rosenstern represses the shiver that comes with Dominic's parting words, trying to avoid the feeling of a large hand closing around his very Essence. He nods quietly again, trying to force himself to think that this is exactly how Judgement wants people to feel, and he should stop worrying and just be the Mercurian.

Thessaloniki replies easily, "Yes, sir. Nice to have met you, after all the times of having had your staff swing by the Ranch." Shateishael covers a grin again at Thessaloniki's words.

Dominic replies, "We're simply making certain that no one takes advantage of your kind hospitality, in light of your master's... recent withdrawal. I'm sure you understand. Oh... have you seen Eli lately?"

Thessaloniki nods, and says, "Yes, indeed! It's nice to know you're looking out for everybody, and that there are people there when we need them." To the second question he shrugs and says, "Not in a little while, no. He'll find me if he needs me, so I don't worry about it overmuch." Shateishael coughs once in spite of himself, trying hard not to laugh.

The archangel asides, "I'm certain that I need not remind a servant of Stone that disrespect is not a virtue." He doesn't sound upset, merely observing. To Thessaloniki Dominic nods, once. "I'm glad to see that you understand. Well. If you see him, do let him know that I'd like a word with him."

Shateishael nods with a carefully polite smile at Dominic, "Of course not, sir." He mentally crosses his fingers that the other Seraph keeps talking to Te- er, Nick... Shateishael's struggling as it is to keep his mouth shut here!

Thessaloniki replies, "Be happy to, sir." He turns to the others and says, "I believe we've taken enough of this kind gentleman's time. I saw a very pleasant little coffee shop around the corner. Would anyone care to join me for a muffin?"

Shateishael says in obvious relief, "Oh, yeah! Time to go! Don't want to waste any more of, er, anyone's time!" as he scoops up the backpack in one hand, rises, flips the chair neatly back into place with the other, and is instantly headed for the door.

"Sure," Rosenstern pipes up. "Sounds good!" He finds solace and calm once he returns to his nature of being a Mercurian. People. Peace. Lots of both, here. This will be a relief after the Morgue. He glances after Davidson. But why would a Most Holy of David be here?

Taygeta stands a bit more slowly and nods to the Archangel. "Thank you for the briefing, sir, and for the advice. We will try not to do anything upsetting while we are here."

Dominic nods. "It's part of my job. See that you don't."

Thessaloniki stands too, and says, "Unless you'd care to join us?" to the archangel, adding, "You'd be perfectly welcome. Or would you like something? Iced mocha? A Danish?"

Dominic shakes his head, rising from the table. "No, thank you. I have a lot of work to do; I'm sure you understand."

Thessaloniki says, "I'll leave you to your important work, then. Thank you for your time, and the information about where we can find the important things in town." He smiles, waves, and heads out, meeting and collecting the others near the door. Shateishael gives Thessaloniki an incredulous grin and shake of the head at the door, then happily stride on out, interestedly staring around himself at the new city he's assigned to.

As soon as Thessaloniki is outside and the doors have swung shut behind him, he says, "C'mon, then. I wasn't kidding about the coffee shop, and I'm terribly curious to hear what all you've gotten yourselves into." He leads them past the Alamo's parking lot and into the little shop, easily procuring a table in a quiet corner. Taygeta looks around with interest as they walk down the street, and then smiles as he shifts part of his awareness into a very early-awake sparrow pecking for crumbs near the coffee shop that Shateishael's friend leads them to. The bird flits up to the roof of the shop, watching the still-night-dark street as they enter.

Thessaloniki blows gently on a very hot coffee, muttering, "Don't know how they get 'em so hot. Seems hotter than boiling to me," then asks, "So, Slate, what brings you and your friends to Austin?"

Shateishael grins at the Eliian, accepting a black coffee of his own, "Not much, really. Dunno what everyone else's instructions are, but mine is to behave myself with some er... delicacy," he manages not to look too amusedly incredulous at the prospect of a 'delicate' seraph, "-uh... and work to the benefit of humanity. That's it!" A moment later he adds, "Oh! Man, I almost forgot! I've been carrying something around for you for a couple of decades now, Nick." His grin is teasingly sly, "Think you could find a good home for... a complete radio from a '54 Thunderbird?"

Rosenstern accepts an herbal tea, taking a gentle sip of it, and enjoying the flavor. Orange. My favorite... He is about to say something, when he blinks in incredulity at Shateishael's comment. Thessaloniki blinks, then laughs, replying, "Thanks, Slate, that's a sweet one. I'm sure I've got a good home for it." He mentions, "Your stuff's still safe and sound out at the Ranch, if you need it." He then looks at the others and asks, "So, nice to meet y'all. Got any plans for how to 'benefit humanity'?"

Taygeta orders cocoa and a chocolate donut, and settles down to enjoy them. He listens to Shateishael and Thessaloniki with interest. "Doesn't sound exactly state of the art, but they were nice machines for their time."

Rosenstern grins quietly, looking into his tea. "Not sure, myself... oh, by the way, I'm Rosenstern. Pleased to meet you, Nick!"

Shateishael grins, "Thanks, Nick. Good to hear everything's fine." He listens to the others, sipping his coffee cautiously.

Taygeta nods. "I actually have instructions, and I believe it's why Jean and Michael arranged for me to borrow this Vessel. Vapula is up to something, and Jean thinks it involves a fusion reactor. He wants it stopped if it's not a purely human development."

Thessaloniki gives Taygeta a careful looking over, then says, "True, not state of the art, probably never was. Beauty in the grace of her lines, though, and a lot of people have a lot of very positive associations with that car, and that era." He sips his coffee gingerly and mutters, "Hot," then adds, "I tend to work on the older cars, as they make more people happy than the newer ones. They'll get their turn in a couple decades." At the news that Vapula is at work, he says, "Oh, my. That's not so good, is it?" His suspicion that this one works for Jean is completely resolved.

Rosenstern's ears perk at Nick's use of words, guessing him to be a Mercurian like himself, which would explain much. He seems even more at ease, now, and comfortable. "It certainly doesn't sound too good..."

Shateishael says bluntly, "So... where is this thing?"

Taygeta shakes his head. "Workable fusion power will cause some major economic dislocations for the humans, and probably lead to some nasty wars as things settle out again. My own suspicion is that this is Vapula's intention, and by prematurely accelerating it the humans won't be as ready for the consequences. According to what Jean told me, it's on the university campus somewhere, and it's a Tokamak design. That means massive magnetic fields, probably with cryogenic superconductors -- though possibly he's cheating and using high-temp superconductors, too."

Shateishael says, "UTA? Okay... how do you intend to find out about it, uh... what name do you want to be called by right now?"

Taygeta shrugs. "Might as well go by Aric -- that's what my ID says."

Shateishael nods, "Got it. Damn Norse sounding name..." He grins ruefully, giving the coffee a disdainful look, "Man, they drink the weirdest crap now... the rinsings of burnt plant seeds..." He shakes his head and sighs, then looks up at the other blonde man, "So... what's the plan on this?"

Taygeta grins. "You should have had the cocoa. Theobromine is a much more pleasant chemical than caffeine." He looks serious again. "First we find out where it is. Probably in a physics or engineering building, but not necessarily. It's supposed to be hidden, and those would be obvious places to look. On the other hand, what might be hidden is simply the fact that it's operable. I could Borrow a pigeon to scout things out -- they might be able to detect the magnetic fields if the thing's in operation."

Rosenstern frowns somewhat, looking at the Dominator. He's not entirely sure he understood just what that one said. However, if something is happening locally, the best place to find out would be to consult the locals. He looks at the time. "Well, we could probably find out more from one of the... locals. In fact, I know just the person to go to, and she'll be up and about around sunrise, too..."

Shateishael nods, looking relieved that there's a plan, "Great! Let's get rolling then... Aric can send a pigeon, and Nick will have a car to contact the woman Rosenstern knows." He grins sideways at the older looking man, "Nick always has a car..."

Taygeta chuckles. "Ofanite, eh?"

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "Well, now that you mention it, I do have a car." Shateishael chuckles, gathering up his backpack to go.

Rosenstern grins quietly and nods. "That's great! We can head there now, if you like. She has a gathering at her store at sunrise we can go to... well, now."

Thessaloniki sips the coffee, decides he can handle it now, and drinks it down in one long drink. He says, "I'm parked behind the Alamo. Let's go." Shateishael heads for where Nick said the car was parked... then simply scans for the most perfectly kept, older looking car he can see. It's been an effective method more than once.

The address that Rosenstern was given is deep in west Austin, buried far back among a few co-ops and slightly ramshackle student housing. It's a small beauty salon from the look of it. From the street, a pleasant-looking black lady, hair tied back in a long rope of dreadlocks, can be seen sweeping the floor. On the window is stenciled "Natural Beauty."

The 1968 Lincoln Continental that Thessaloniki is driving stands out a little bit in the student neighborhood, its two-tone tan and white paint and dark leather interior leaving less mark on the eye than the stylish fins and the sheer size of the car. He parks it casually near the shop and says, "Here we are. Everybody out of the pool." Shateishael grins at the Ofanite, then slides easily out of the front seat, standing and stretching a bit as he looks around. Rosenstern is still grinning, slipping out of the car. He stretches a little, looking across the street, and without hesitation -- other than looking both ways before crossing -- trots over to the store.

Taygeta has saved a few bits of donut. He'd given one to the sparrow he'd Borrowed at the coffee shop, and now does the same thing with another bird, flying it down to pick up the bit of pastry before carrying it up to a rooftop to watch the street while his other vessel is inside. Shateishael leaves his backpack in the car, giving it a proprietary pat before he locks the door on it. "Remind me to give you the radio later, Nick, yeah?" He ambles easily across the road towards the store, behind Rosenstern and in no particular hurry. No need to look like a posse to the poor woman.

Thessaloniki chuckles, "I'm not likely to let you forget, Slate, never fear. Let's go meet some nice people." He follows the Mercurian's lead, smiling cheerfully, hands casually in the pockets of his sweater.

Rosenstern approaches the door to the parlor, knocking briefly at the door before opening it and poking his head in cheerfully. "Ms. Zera?"

The woman looks up and smiles a bit. "Name's Zara, honey, and we're not-" She pauses, and smiles more. "Ahh, you're this month's fresh angels, aren't you? Come on in, you're just in time." The interior of the shop has a pleasing aroma of plant life, and anyone crossing the doorway immediately feels relaxed; just a little more at peace with themselves and the world. "I heard you arrive, I was wondering when you'd come 'round," she adds, setting the broom aside and gesturing for the others to follow toward the back.

Thessaloniki nods and follows along, looking curiously around the shop, and into the room they're led to. Shateishael saunters curiously in behind Rosenstern, looking around. When the woman looks at him, he lightly touches the tip of his right index finger to his temple in polite salute, as if tipping a nonexistent hat, "Ma'am."

Taygeta says, "Just having a bite of breakfast to acclimate, ma'am. Nice shop you have here."

Rosenstern's smile widens, and he nods. "Zara, then. I'm Rosenstern. This is... Davidson, Nick, and Aric." He makes the introductions briefly, following Zara. "Yes, we got in not too long ago. You heard us arrive? I guess that means just about everyone in the city heard us." He feels... good here. The plants, it must be the plants, he just inwardly revels in the plant life and the pleasant, friendly sensations of the place.

Shateishael corrects mildly as he studies the shop curiously, "Just Slate, ma'am." Rosenstern glances to Shateishael, and nods sheepishly and apologetically.

Zara nods, grinning, "Just the ones that have ears to listen, child." She nods to each introduction, leading the group through several back rooms to a small concrete patio attached to the rear of the building. "Well, you come to the right place, then; I like to bring in the new arrivals to get themselves acquainted." She frowns a bit, "We're missing a few of our regulars, though... haven't seen them in a few days." She shrugs, leading them past some metal fake-wicker tables, where a very small group of people have gathered, each sipping some dark fragrant tea or coffee.

Shateishael glances at Rosenstern and grins quirkily, then looks at the woman, "Well, Ms. Zara, don't know about missing regulars, although maybe we could look for them later for you if you wanted... but we were wondering if you knew anything about something that Aric here is looking for." He looks at the other man, "Aric? You want to tell her what it is?"

Thessaloniki asks, "Are people being missing something to worry about?"

Shateishael says, "Don't know yet, Nick... but it can't hurt to check into it later, yeah?"

Zara shushes Rosen. "Later for that, honey. Go sit down. It's nearly time." Seated at one table or another are a strikingly beautiful woman wearing bulky sunglasses and wrapped in a battered leather jacket, sporting a remarkable crest of flaming hair; an athletic-seeming blonde woman a few tables away, fingers curled around a cup of tea and her eyes fixed on the far horizon, where through the buildings the eastern skyline can be seen; and by himself in a far corner, leaning way over a cup of coffee, is a rough-looking young man, twentyish or so, wearing dark glasses and a battered denim jacket, his head mostly shaved except for a slash on one side left to grow long, platinum blonde, and unruly. A few other people mill about here and there, but no one else seems to catch the collective eyes of the angels.

Shateishael goes silent, unsure what's going on and waiting for a lead. Thessaloniki smiles and has no idea what's going on, but moves in to settle at one of the tables, probably near the athletic blonde. He smiles and nods to her, then looks eastward himself, thinking, Another dawn. He waits to enjoy it. Shateishael leans against a wall near Nick, arms folded and watching with quiet interest.

Rosenstern blinks, then nods to Zara; everything in its own time. He finds a table for himself and the others; if any of those present look at him, he'll smile and nod cheerfully, and if close enough, pleasantly greet, aware that some people just might not be morning persons. Taygeta finds a spot to himself, content for now to watch the gathering and the dawn, idly wondering how many are human and who are Celestials.

Someone murmurs, "Hey, here it comes," and everyone looks up to the skyline in the distance. The sun rises over the buildings there, and slowly begins to flood the small garden with light. As the sunlight warms them, each angel feels, in their own time, a sort of pleasant rush, a quiet mutual sigh as their Essence regenerates. Even the man in the corner, who doesn't seem much of a morning person, watches silently as the sun comes up, reflected in his dark glasses.

Shateishael sighs quietly, then reaches into his jacket pocket and slips some reflective aviator shades on. Thessaloniki smiles, letting the energy of the dawn run over and into him. He comments quietly, "Beautiful, isn't it?" to no one in particular. He makes a mental note Must remember to get my hat out of the car later. Taygeta smiles to himself as the sun rises. And the dawn comes up like thunder, out of China 'cross the bay. His avian vessel chirps to herself in agreement with the sentiment.

Rosenstern blinks, and looks over... and is simply captured by the moment, for the time being content to watch the rising of the sun. Another day, one of thousands upon thousands upon thousands in the Symphony... and yet each as precious as the First. He squints a little, glancing away slightly as the sun becomes far too bright to look at with his Vessel's eyes. Glory be, he thinks quietly, feeling the gently rush of renewal of self and purpose and life.

Shateishael lets his head lean back against the wall and murmurs quietly and mostly to himself, in a low, rolling voice, "Father of All, Ennoia of the Light, dwelling in the heights above the regions below... Light dwelling in the heights, Voice of Truth, upright Nous, untouchable Logos... ineffable Voice, incomprehensible Father!" then sighs quietly to himself again. Moments like this remove doubt.

The man in the corner mutters to himself, "Rock out." Shateishael grins.

After the moment passes, the various small, unrelated conversations pick back up, and things relax again. Zara smiles, "Ahhh. Worth the trip, wasn't it? Now... I suppose I should show you folks around. I'll let you do your own introductions, but around here we have... Lauren," indicating the flame-haired lady, "That's Nicole there that your older friend seems to be smiling at... and over there in the corner is Wrench." She smiles, "Don't see him here often, but he don't make much trouble. Not like Hugo and his boy Mackie 'cross town. And he gets along good with Tomas..." She sighs a little. "Haven't seen Tomas in a while. Drew either."

Shateishael nods politely to the folks he's introduced to, adding a quiet, "Ma'am," to any of the women that happen to look at him when introduced.

Taygeta says, "Are any of them at the University?"

Rosenstern nods and smiles to each person in turn, but looks to Zara concernedly when she mentions the last two names. "Are you worried about them?" He glances to Taygeta and nods, echoing his concern.

Thessaloniki nods and says, "Hello," as he's introduced. He decides to introduce himself, "Folks know me as Nick. It's a pleasure to meet y'all." He asks Zara, "Is their absence worrisome, ma'am, or is their company just missed?" He notices the silent man behind him, and remembers, introducing, "And this is Slate. Quiet, but good to have around in any kind of pinch." Shateishael nods again, smiling faintly, still leaning comfortably against the wall with folded arms.

Zara mms. "Think Marius and Darius are, but they don't come in much." She grins, "Computer folks don't seem to care much about beautification." She shrugs a little, "Well... Drew's got his problems... it's a bad situation for a poor kid like him to be in. Bad job he's got. He wanders off for a while sometimes, but he always comes draggin' back eventually. Tomas, though... he's a regular socialite. But I'm sure he's taking care of that Word of his, wherever he's at." She laughs to herself. "He can't help himself sometimes."

Taygeta nods. "I'll be wanting to look up Marius and Darius, I think. No one else here is a student?"

Zara shakes her head. "I get plenty in here, but no one like you and I."

Rosenstern's attention perks. Tomas has a Word... and he's missing... I'm sure Zara's much more worried about that than she's letting on... "That must be quite a task, to hold a Word," he muses, then blinks. Wait a minute... "What Word does Tomas hold?"

Zara grins a little, "'Catchy Tunes.' I can think of harder Words to carry around." She smiles again and shrugs, "But he's one of Eli's, you know? Who knows what someone like him's thinking?"

Thessaloniki gets a strange look on his face as he says, "I was just going to ask if anyone'd heard of one of Eli's being unreachable. Anybody know where he was seen last? I'd like to chat with him."

Zara wipes her hands a bit on her skirt. "Well, he's pretty tight with Wrench; maybe you wanna go ask him about it. I wouldn't mind seeing him back here. He brightens up the place, you know?"

Rosenstern blinks. Catchy... Tunes...? He grins quietly. "That must be a fun one. We'll see if we can't run into him, and if he'd like to come by here again..."

Thessaloniki says, "I think I will. He and I might get along anyway." He nods to the quiet Nicole, and meanders over to Wrench, pulling up a chair near him and saying, "Hi ho. Wrench, is it? Why that name?"

Taygeta nods. "I would think so. Shall we try?" Suiting actions to the words, he wanders over and sits quietly down beside Wrench.

Shateishael looks around, realizing they're going to be a while, and sees a coffeepot with a stack of Dixie cups by it. He goes and fills up two, tucking some cream containers and sugar packets into a pocket, then takes them back, setting one by the Ofanite, "Want one, Nick?" He grins, realizing the cups are, of course, recycled paper.

Thessaloniki smiles, "Thanks, Slate." He idly adds cream and sugar to the coffee, but leaves his attention on Wrench.

Wrench sits up a little bit when people appear to start gravitating towards his table. He looks around tiredly and nods. "New guys," he grins toothily. His teeth are startlingly white.

Taygeta says, "New in town, anyway. Zara says you might know where Tomas is...?"

The man stretches a little and has a long gulp of his coffee. "Name's Wrenchial; call me Wrench." He blinks, "Uh, actually I was wonderin' that myself. I haven't seen my bro Tomas in a few days."

Thessaloniki chuckles and says, "Well, I misread that one. Here I thought you'd picked it up from working on cars or motorcycles or something." He offers the tired looking man his hand and says, "Theodore Nicholson, although most call me Nick. Nice to meet you."

Taygeta says, "Hmm. Where'd you see him last?"

Wrench leans away from the blonde guy a bit. "Um... I dunno, Sixth Street, maybe? What the fuck, man, why're you interrogating me?"

Taygeta holds a hand up. "Sorry. We're trying to meet folks to see if they know anything about strange goings-on at the University. Zara mentioned he'd been missing and that you were his buddy."

Wrench scowls a little. "I didn't vanish him, man. He's my bro, my compadre. Jeezis, man, you only been here half an hour, lay off." He shakes his head and turns to Nicholson. "Yeah. You know my name." He grins a little, letting the earlier slight ride for now. "Yeah, well, I dig cars too, man, but it's not, like, my main line."


Rosenstern's nerves, a bit frazzled by the initial meeting with Dominic, are by now nicely repaired by spending time talking with another Novalite. He glances in Wrench's direction; of course, his first impulse is to converge there as well, but he realizes some people aren't comfortable with a lot of people suddenly around them. He looks back to Zara. "You mentioned a guy named Drew. What does he do that's so bad?"

Zara ahs, and draws Rosenstern away from the crowd a bit. She sighs quietly, "Druiel's... real young. And young folks make mistakes... part of growin' up, right? Well, Drew made himself a mistake I don't know he can get himself out of. See, he chose a Word that he wasn't ready for, and it's tearing him up when he has to go and work for it."

Rosenstern blinks quietly, glancing back around. He's glad to see Wrench seems open to the others -- whoops, maybe he thought that too soon. I really should be over there, talking, but... first things first. He looks back to Zara, frowning. "What Word did he choose?" He racks his brain, trying to think of what Word would be particularly hard to work at.

Zara shakes her head a little. "Well, he used to work for Christopher. Children, you know? I dunno, I guess he'd thought it was cool or something, maybe he thought he'd get to meet the Angel of Death or somethin', but he got in with Laurence... so he's 'Teenage Death,' now."

Rosenstern gives a bit of a start, then lets out a breath. "Oh, by the Garden..." he murmurs. "That must be eating him alive, emotionally."

Zara sighs, "Kids make mistakes. Laurence doesn't understand that, though, and even if he did Drew wouldn't admit it. So every couple of months he goes out to Enchanted Rock with some pretty young thing or another, and they don't come back."


Thessaloniki also leans back a bit, and hopes Wrench doesn't feel threatened. He says, "Hey, s'alright, man. We're just wondering if he's okay. I work for the same fellow he does, and heard he'd been out of touch, and thought I'd try and check on him while I was in town. There's this other thing too, which has Taygeta here a little worried."

Wrench ahhs, "Yeah, okay. I gotcha. It's on the down-low 'cause of Eli, right? It's cool. Well, I dunno anything about the University, 'cept what filters down to the clubs. I'm a music man."

Thessaloniki chuckles and says, "Cars, mmm? Cool. Next time you've got an afternoon to kill, consider swinging by and saying, 'Hi,' y'know? Always nice to see a new and interested face at the Ranch." He offers Wrench a card from his shirt pocket, which lists his name and 'Auto Restoration * Classic Cars * Specializing in rare and hard to find cars.'

Taygeta nods. "I'm sorry, didn't mean to sound like one of Dominic's crew. I'm a bit spooked by what my boss thinks is going on at the University. Missing folks sounds like a possible symptom, so I wanted to know where he might have been to disappear."

Wrench takes the card, nods, and tucks it in a pocket. "Rock out," he adds. He shrugs, "Nah, I dunno anything about that, man. Like I said, I don't hang at the University. Tomas neither, usually. We usually roll together, know what I'm sayin'?"

Taygeta nods. "I think so -- the slang's a bit different at Lawrence Livermore, though. With any luck, he's not involved at all with this. Just wanted to be sure. Thanks."

Wrench nods. "Sure, man."

Thessaloniki nods, "Sure enough. Music, mmm? A fun gig, really. You in a band, or just know all the good spots? Anybody we should be particularly interested in seeing?" He adds, "Or, avoiding?" and grins. Shateishael tilts his head to listen to that answer, still blowing softly on his coffee from where he's leaning against a wall.

Wrench grins. "Awright, Tomas was right, you guys are cool. Yeah, man, I am the soundsmith on Sixth Street, man, someone needs a mix, they come to me. No better ears than mine, dude. So yeah, I know a few spots. Actually, I'm workin' right now for a local act... ever heard of Stool?"

Shateishael raises an eyebrow behind the aviator shades, wondering how Tomas knew 'you guys'... is that in specific or in general, he wonders. He hms silently to himself, then speculates, Maybe he means the servitors of Eli. That'd make more sense.

Thessaloniki smiles, looking bemused, "Hey, we try." To the name of the band, he shakes his head and says, "Nope, 'fraid I don't. I get a bit out of touch, being a ways out of town and usually with my head in a car. Be happy to hear it, though, unless they'd mind a fuddy-duddy like me hanging around. Maybe somebody's seen Tomas around someplace, and maybe I'll hear some new music. What're they like?"

Wrench grins a little. "Loud, man. Real loud. 'cept that singer of theirs, now she's got a serious set of pipes. Real talent. Can't say much for the rest of 'em, but I get paid real well for makin' 'em sound good. Me, I'm just in it for the wattage, man."


Rosenstern rubs his chin, trying not to look too horrified. "That's harsh," he says softly. "Just... too harsh..." He shakes his head. Death is inevitable in the Symphony, for mortal humans at the very least. For almost everything. Even some types of flowers bloom once, then simply die. But this... "You think that he's... fulfilling the duties of his word, then, which is why he's been away for a time?"

Zara nods. "Likely, child. He does that sometimes... usually holes up to try an' deal with it by himself for a few days after. I'm sure he'll be coming back soon enough, lookin' like something the rats dragged in."

Rosenstern nods, sighing softly. "I can imagine." He tries to think back to how he was at Drew's age, in the gardens of Europe... the gardens surrounded by the Black Plague. "What does he look like, in case we see him? I don't know what help we could be, he has a hard Word but..."

Zara smiles, "You'll know him if you see him. Skinny kid, black hair, always wearing this beat-up old black leather biker jacket two sizes too big for him. Barbell studs and duct tape all over it." She shakes her head again, "Never smiles. And always looks like he needs some sleep. Poor boy."

Rosenstern nods quietly, unsmiling. "We'll keep an eye out for him." He sighs softly. "I can't say his Word is particularly appealing, but... it has its place in the Symphony, and his is a hard enough job bearing it. If we see him, I'll try to get him back here soonest. Sometimes I wish..." He shakes his head. "Thank you, Zara." He smiles quietly. "I was just told to settle here, and help keep the peace, so... well, can't hurt to try to help out."


Shateishael looks around idly, checking out the others seated there as he sips his coffee and half-listens to his friends. His gaze falls on the flame-haired woman, studying her thoughtfully... Nice jacket. Looks like she cares for it, too. Taygeta says, "Might be interesting, at that. Electronic mixing, I assume?"

Wrench nods to the blonde man, "Yeah, man, fifty million watts of screaming rock power. Least, that's what my card says."

Thessaloniki laughs and says, "That's cool. Sounds like they're pretty good for you." He sips his coffee, adding, "I'll let you know if we find Tomas; let him know you're looking for him. Never cool to leave a mate wondering." He leans back and looks around, asking, "You know any of the rest of these folks?" but being real low-key and letting Lightning ask about wattage, thinking Thought that'd get your attention. He chuckles at the tagline.

Taygeta chuckles. "It's certainly a more acceptable use of technology than blowing up cities. I don't think that my boss would object."

Wrench hmms? "Oh, yeah, man. That's Lauren over there. She's on our side, but she's tight with Zara. Heh, 's hard not to like Zara though... she's like neutral ground here. Patches up everyone, one side or the other, and doesn't take shit from anyone. Only ever had one fight break out here 'cause both sides of a fight showed up to get patched at the same time."

Taygeta raises an eyebrow at that and looks back to Zara. "She's a Lilim?"

Wrench makes a face again and points, his finger under Taygeta's nose so he won't miss it this time. "You're like, not paying attention to me, are you? Lauren's the Lilim, not Zara."

Thessaloniki asks, "Zara's not on our side?" Listening, he smiles and says, "Ah, she's on everybody's side." He then asks, "What about, hmm, I think Zara said her name was Nicole?" He has an odd thought, I wonder if there's just as interesting a gathering here at sunset?

Wrench shrugs, sitting back down and slugging down the rest of his coffee. "Anyway, I dunno the blonde chick. Haven't seen her around."

Taygeta looks back to Wrench. "Ah. I was paying attention. I think I misunderstood who is on which side. No offense meant."

Wrench shrugs. "It's whatever, man."

Thessaloniki mmms quietly, then merely says, "Pity, that," and grins.

Theodore's comment gets a snort out of Wrenchial. "Heh."

Shateishael listens in idle curiosity, wondering... He said 'she's on our side, but she's tight with Zara'... does that mean she and Wrench are demons? He studies the leather jacket thoughtfully, Looks like a few concrete abrasions on it that the saddle soap's not taken out yet... hmm, no, that one looks more like... knife, maybe? Thessaloniki leans back, sitting quietly and sipping his coffee for a while, listening to the conversation for a few moments.


Zara smiles quietly, "She told me you were coming, child."

Rosenstern chuckles softly, smiling, "I shouldn't be surprised that she had. I'm glad, though. It's... a bit of a change of pace, from where I was last."

Zara nods, "Actually, I think I have some use for you, if you're interested."

Rosenstern nods, "Sure. It's what I'm here for!"

Zara nods, "I'm busy here tending the shop most days, and I could use a hand tending to the garden and the shop. Can't pay you much, but you can crash in a back room if you need, 'til you find a place of your own. She said you'd be putting down some roots; may as well help get you started."

Rosenstern chuckles softly, "Thank you, Zara. That works out well; I was a florist and gardener elsewhere. I'd be glad to do that for you."

Zara ahs, "Good, then." She smiles, and the gesture alone puts the Mercurian at his ease. "Get yourself settled in, alright, and come back to me and we'll talk more."

Rosenstern nods his head, smiling. "Sure thing." He nods to the others. "We've all got something to do here, and we came together. I think that's a reason enough to help each other..."


Shateishael glances at his companions, then decides they can get along fine without him. He wanders over to the red head, approaching so she can see him coming, with the habit of long, old training. He pauses by the table, not yet seating himself, "Hey. Lauren? Slate." He waits quietly for the Lilim to react before saying anything more.

Lauren glances up from her tea. "So I heard."

Shateishael nods, then simply adds, "Nice jacket. Mind if I sit while I'm waiting?"

Lauren shrugs and sits back. "Thanks. Make yourself comfortable, stranger."

Shateishael says, "Thanks." He settles comfortably across the table from her, still curiously studying the jacket, and waves one hand in the general direction of one of the concrete-scuff-looking marks, "You ride a bike?"

Lauren turns and glances at her elbow, where the angel is indicating. "Me? Nah. Memento from an old boyfriend."

Shateishael nods slowly, still observing the woman curiously... Interesting, she's holding the cup with her left hand... and the knife scar's on the left forearm. Bet she's had no fighting training if she defended with her weapons hand... and there's obviously no kevlar or other protection in the leather, from the way it's moving.

He says mildly, "You have that problem often? Might want to take some fighting lessons if so... at least learn how to dodge properly and not defend with your weapons hand, y'know? Especially if you're going to let them get that close to you." He sniffs slightly, then smiles at the pleasant scent of well-cared-for leather, "Nice to meet someone that tries to take care of their stuff."

If she blinked, the sunglasses covered it, along with the rest of half her face. Her head bounces back a moment, though. She sets the teacup down. "You've got a really weird way of saying hello, mister."

Shateishael grins lazily, "Hello."

Lauren nods. "Hi there. So... what's your deal, then?"

Shateishael sips his coffee and studies the knife slash curiously, giving the Lilim time to decide how she wants to react. Wonder what kind of blade it was... can't quite see the edges of the slash from here- The thought is interrupted by her words, "Mm? How do you mean?" He smiles, with perhaps the faintest hint of teasing quirking his lips, "I like fine, well-cared-for tools. And... just passing time." He smiles and shrugs, "I'll leave if you like."

She shrugs and picks up her tea again. "Take care of your tools, huh? Yeah, I'll bet," she grins faintly, sipping at the cooling beverage. "Don't make a lot of small talk, do you?"

Shateishael thinks about that for a moment over the coffee... then says honestly, "Don't know how," then adds curiously, "What do you bet?"

Lauren laughs quietly. "That you take care of your tools. You look like the type."

Shateishael says, "Oh." He looks faintly pleased, "Thank you."

Lauren grins faintly, quirking the corners of her mouth. "Don't mention it, handsome."

Shateishael sips a bit more coffee, then adds, "So who was trying to slash you? Looks like they got a bit close for comfort?"


Thessaloniki sips from his coffee, and watches people quietly. Wrench leans over a little bit, and taps the side of Theodore's arm. "Hey man... who's your friend over there? What's his deal?"

Thessaloniki looks back to Wrench and replies softly, "His name is Slate. He's a rock-solid fighter, and handy to have around in a pinch. He takes a professional interest in everything he sees." He adds, "He's perfectly serious with his questions, and always respectful, if not always the most conversationally graceful." He looks at Wrench, and asks casually, "He doing something he shouldn't?"

Wrench shakes his head. "Nah, man, Lauren can take care of herself. Hey, got a minute? Something I wanna ask you."

Thessaloniki chuckles softly and says, "Hey, I wasn't worried about her. Shoot."

Wrench looks around a few times, then leans in a little closer to Theodore. "You're pretty tight with the big dude, right? Think you could talk him into doing a little something?"

Thessaloniki shrugs and murmurs, "Maybe. Depends a lot on what it is and why, I guess. What's up?"


Lauren smiles and shrugs, "Oh. I dunno... my old boyfriend used to get into a lot of fights. Probably some stupid kid down on the Drag."

Shateishael will move his hand slowly, so she can pull away if she wishes to, and see if he can touch the edges of the slash in the leather, to learn more about the type of knife used... professionalism is piquing his interest at this point. Absently he adds, "You have combative boyfriends, but you don't know much about fighting? Must like to live dangerously..."

She doesn't smile at that. All she says is, "Occupational hazard." Shateishael looks up at that, also not smiling. He opens his mouth to say something... then shakes his head once and goes back to studying the slash in the jacket. Lauren shifts a little, getting rather uncomfortable with all the scrutiny, and starts drawing her arm back away. "Hey, you mind sitting back a little, handsome? We just met, y'know."

Shateishael looks faintly disappointed, Darnit, wish she'd quit jumping around so I could see the damn thing! but just nods politely, "No problem." He sips his coffee, still curiously watching the woman and wondering why she'd put up with getting smacked around... then just mentally shrugs and smiles, "Um. Okay, small talk, right. Lovely day, eh?"

Lauren smiles ruefully and shakes her head, sipping at her tea. "You shouldn't put yourself out like that, stranger. You really aren't very good at it. I wouldn't know anyway... I'm a night person, myself."

Shateishael laughs easily, "Nah... I suck at it! But most folks get nervous if I just sit and watch them." He grins lazily again, "Would you?"

Lauren smirks. "I get paid to let people sit and watch me, cutie."

Shateishael laughs softly again, then rises, "Well, can't match that one. Nice meeting you though." He glances at the nasty slash across the jacket, and the smile slips away from his face. Quietly he says, "Better luck next time with boyfriends, hey? Take care..." and quietly paces back towards Nick. The red-haired woman watches him go, silently.

Thessaloniki valiantly ignores Slate's conversation lest he interrupt or, worse, laugh. He listens to Wrench instead, who puts up his hands, palms out, saying, "Nothing hellacious, man, but I'm in kind of a bind and I need a little favor. It'd be a real big solid if you could handle something on the down-low for me. Nothin' illegal, even!" He continues, "These guys I'm handling, Stool, well, they're getting pretty big locally, y'know, doin' a video and all that shit... and they're playing the festival comin' up soon. But, damned if the security I hired didn't fuckin' bail on me at the last fuckin' second."

Thessaloniki hrms, then says, "When's the show?"

"Three days," Wrenchial says, "Friday night."

Shateishael refills his coffee cup, then goes back to leaning comfortably against the wall near Nick. He nods politely to Wrench as he does so. Taygeta looks at Nick. "Shouldn't interfere with anything if it's on a Friday night."

Thessaloniki nods, "Hmm. Let's ask him." He sees Slate is back, "Hey, Slate," and gestures him over. When he settles in, Nick introduces, "Wrench, Slate. Slate, Wrenchial." He then adds, "Wrench is in a bit of a bind, and was wondering if you might be able to help him out."

"All I need," Wrench continues, "-is for y'all to just baby-sit this crew for three days until the show. And, y'know, maybe we can trade favors. You do me a solid like this and I'll put my ear to the ground for you about whatever's goin' on at the University, alright?"

Thessaloniki comments, "An in from the student end at the University might be a huge help, mm?"

Shateishael raises an eyebrow at that, "Say what? I came in on the middle of this, I think?"

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Yep. Wrench works with a band. He's responsible for security, and the guy he was gonna hire skipped out on him."

Taygeta nods. "There have to be students who have an idea about it if it's there. Might be useful."

Thessaloniki adds, "He was wondering if you and maybe Tay'd be able to help cover for that."

Wrench nods, "Yeah, man, they fuckin' hired on with the fuckin' Edgar Winter Band. Can you believe that shit? Snubbed for that albino motherfucker?" Thessaloniki looks at Wrench a bit, and then glances back at the redhead, and the still-quiet blonde, giving each of them a cheerful smile, which is probably ignored.

Shateishael looks at Nick, then back at Wrench. His voice is frankly disbelieving, "You need security for your band for three days? What'd they do?" His eyes narrow behind the shades, "And you want them babysat before, not during the show? Why?"

Wrench blinks, "They didn't do nothin', man, but the music festival's goin' on, and you never know what kind of crazy motherfucker'll crawl outta the woodwork. I just need you until the end of the night on Friday after the show."

Thessaloniki says, "Relax, Slate. They're a band. Strange shit happens to bands, especially when crowds get rowdy." He chuckles and adds, "Wouldn't surprise me if we weren't supposed to help keep the band at least kind of sober, either, from my last interaction with musicians."

Taygeta mutters, "Never have that kind of trouble with engineers..."

Thessaloniki responds with, "Yeah, but they're usually boring."

Wrench shrugs, "Look, man, it's real short notice and I'd be really appreciative if you could help me out here. With the festival on, I can't find a single fuckin' Diabolical sober enough to be useful for three straight days."

Shateishael stares at the demon... then has to laugh in spite of himself at that comment. Thessaloniki asks, quietly but intently, "Why do you look for diabolicals?"

Wrench blinks. "Huh?"

Shateishael says, "Because he is one, Nick. Remember? we're the 'other side'?"

Taygeta snorts. "What do you think he is?"

Wrench says, "Dude... you couldn't tell? I'm a Calabite, man."

Thessaloniki shrugs, and says, "Must've missed a detail or two. Happens. I don't keep real close track."

Wrench shrugs. "It's whatever, man. No big deal. Anyway, do you guys think you could help me out?"

Shateishael winces slightly at the admission, then sighs, looking back at the demon, "Y'know, if I'd known you a bit longer, I might've said yes... but I'm new to town, and it's not like we all come with references, y'know? ...I'm sorry..." He glances towards Zara, wondering what she'd say about the Calabite... and if he'd trust her assessment. Three days... he doesn't know a better way to make a set-up than to make sure the ambush is exactly where one wants.

Wrenchial sits up, "I do got a reference, though! Ask Zara about me, man, she'll vouch for me. Fuck, ask anyone about me, they'll tell you, Wrench is solid, man. Look, I've been buds with Tomas for years, man, I wouldn't put one of his bros in the shit."

Shateishael winces again, although internally this time, imagining explaining that to David... he sighs softly, then looks at the Calabite, "Tell you what. You got some kind of contact number or something? How long do we have before we have to decide?" Almost as an afterthought he adds, "Can we meet the band first?"

Wrench grins. "Yeah, man, I can take you to see 'em today if you want. They're playin' the Pit today," he says. "I'll get you in for free."

Shateishael glances inquiringly at the others for their impressions, and whether they'd like to go meet the band. Rosenstern, who has returned to the group not long before Shateishael did, doesn't look terribly worried; presumably, he's thinking that if it helps to prevent violence from erupting around people trying to just have a good time, it's a good thing.

Taygeta looks at the Calabite, then at the other Celestials. "I see why Dominic gave us that lecture. It does go against the grain, doesn't it? But he might be a good contact." He turns back to Wrench. "One question. Who do you report to?"

Wrench glances at Taygeta. "Belial, if you're that interested, dude."

Shateishael winces again, putting his head in his hands, "Man, I am not hearing this..." He sighs, straightening, "Okay, Wrench, let me talk to some folks first, right?"

Wrench nods. "You do what you gotta do, man." He turns to Nick. "Hey, man, in case you decide to come out anyway, take this with you." He hands the older man a cell phone. "Direct line, bro."

Thessaloniki picks up the phone, "Hey, thanks." He looks at Wrench, "Dunno yet. Festivals are a good place for all manner of things. And I'd like to find Tomas, too."

Wrench says, "You and me both, man... me and Tomas are bros."

Shateishael gets up quietly, and heads on over to quietly murmur to Zara, "Ma'am? May I speak to you in private for a moment?"

Zara smiles, "Certainly. C'mon in back." She ushers the Stone angel into a quiet storage room.

Shateishael looks a little unsettled, but simply asks as politely as he knows how, "Ma'am, Wrench wants to hire us to baby-sit his band for him for three days and during the show. I... well, he's... a Calabite of Belial, y'know? Ordinarily I'd laugh in his face... but... well, everyone keeps telling me things are different here, y'know? So... I was wondering what you thought of him?" He wonders a little bleakly just how he'll explain this to David... will it actually aid the humans to have a little entertainment? ...maybe if the band's not too self-loathing...?

Zara laughs quietly, laying a gentle hand on Shateishael's shoulder. "Everyone says that when they first get here, child. It's different here, yes. But, since you asked my opinion, I've known Wrenchial a long time. And I'm telling you he wouldn't purposefully put you in a dangerous situation."

Shateishael studies the woman silently for a very... long... moment... then nods very slowly, "All right. You've been here for a while... so I guess you know better than I would." He turns to head for the door, then pauses, adding a little awkwardly, "Thank you, Ms. Zara."

Zara adds in a kindly fashion, "And you know, even though you didn't ask, I noticed you asking about Tomas. Wrench has known Tomas longer than any of us. I don't doubt he wouldn't like to see his friend come home." The big man studies Zara a moment longer, then nods once... and leaves quietly.

Shateishael walks back out onto the patio, looking unhappy, and re-seats himself at Wrench's table. Quietly he says, "Wrench, don't you make Ms. Zara regret her recommendation of you." He takes a long, slow breath, then nods once, "Okay, where's this Pit we're supposed to meet the band at?" Thessaloniki smiles at Wrench.

Wrench grins widely, "I wouldn't mess with Zara for nothin', man. Don't you worry. Tell you what, you dudes get yourself settled, and you call me on that phone about six tonight. I'll come getcha."

Shateishael nods once to Wrench. Thessaloniki nods, "Gotcha." He casually flicks the phone open to make sure there's a number or something to call. The keypad, interestingly, is all sixes. Shateishael, glancing over Nick's shoulder, gets a startled look... then abruptly loses any desire to touch the damn thing. Thessaloniki ahs, and says, "The number would be what I'd expect, then?" and grins wryly at Wrench.

Wrench grins. "Don't you worry, bro. You call, and I'll get it."

Thessaloniki nods and says, "Gotcha," again.

Shateishael gives Taygeta a wryly amused glance, "You don't have a cell yourself, do you?" He wonders what numbers would be on an angelic keypad... all ones?

Taygeta blinks. "I've honestly got no idea." He starts doing an inventory of his pockets, then grins as he comes up with one and flips it open. "Here we are. Top of the line Nokia, and it's perfectly ordinary." Shateishael looks faintly relieved.

Wrench grins, "You won't be sorry, guys. Did me a huge solid. I'll see you dudes tonight." With that, he leaves a couple bucks on the table, stands, and ambles away, whistling.

Shateishael watches Wrench leave, then mumbles unhappily under his breath, "Sure hope so..." He sits with his coffee, looking morosely out into nothing in particular, and wondering if he's made a huge mistake.

Thessaloniki ponders the demonic phone for a moment, and then shrugs and puts it in his pocket, thinking, Well, I misjudged that one. But, he seems like a good enough fellow, and doesn't seem to want anything too particularly demonic. And a favor's a favor. He finishes his cup of coffee and grins mischievously, saying, "Be back," to Slate. He meanders back over to the coffee pot, cheerfully taking the dregs out of the pot and deftly setting the machine about making another. On his way back over to where his friend is sitting, he pauses by Lauren and says, "Hi."

When she looks up, Nick says, "I know my friend Slate sometimes comes off a little badly, but he's really worth knowing. And he means everything he says." He sips from his coffee and adds, "Don't think badly of him because he's a little awkward sometimes." He offers her a silent toast, then meanders off, probably leaving her thinking he too is an idiot. The reflections in her shades slide as Lauren's head turns to follow the older gentleman. She wonders what kind of crew they've sent down this month.

Thessaloniki doesn't make it back to Slate, either, getting distracted by Nicole again. He wanders that way, and says, "Hi ho. Mind if I join you for a moment?"

Nicole looks up, "Huh? Yeah, sure, sit down. What's on your mind?"

Thessaloniki sits down and says, "Not much. Just trying to go around and get to know everybody a little bit." He sets his coffee down and offers his hand to her saying, "My name is Theodore Nichols, but everybody calls me Nick. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Nicole nods, shaking the offered hand firmly. "Nicole. Pleased to meetcha."

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "Why, thank you." He sips from his strong coffee, then asks, "What do you do here in Austin, Nicole? Anything interesting?" He adds, "So far, everything I've seen's been interesting, so that should be an easy question."

Nicole grins a little. "Couldn't tell you, Theo. Just got in a couple weeks ago myself. I've been kinda drifting, y'know? Mostly I'm just paying Zara back for her hospitality by helping her keep the peace."

Thessaloniki ahs, then says, "It's funny. I've got a big place way outside of town," and he produces one of his ubiquitous business cards to hand to her, "-but I rarely come in to Austin proper. So far, it seems an interesting place. I'm not used to seeing people getting along so well, even though I try and encourage it on my property. Interesting place."

Nicole nods. "Yeah, it's... I dunno, it's kinda delicate around here. Think someone may be trying to upset the peace. Been tense here the last couple of days."

Thessaloniki says, "That'd be a pity. What kind of things happening? Anything in specific, or just sort of restless?"

Nicole frowns. "Looks to me like someone tried to tip off the Old Guy."

Thessaloniki asks, "Old Guy? Don't know that one."

The blonde woman seems a little surprised at that. "No one told you? Heh, well, better to hear it from me than one of the Infernals. There's a Malakite in town, sport."

Thessaloniki says, "I would presume that they'd be pretty uncomfortable in a place like this, wouldn't you? Could get pretty messy. Any idea why they've come?"

She grins. "Come? He's always been here. The Old Guy's the Seneschal of the Treaty Oak. Big old Tether out there; smaller than it used to be since some nut job poured weed killer on the roots, though. The trick is that he doesn't know there are any demons in Austin... they've been keeping him in the dark so no one gets their heads busted." She adds, "And you know the best part? Guess who they've been using to get it over on him."

Thessaloniki says, "Woah. Let me get my friend, he's going to need to hear this." He waves at Slate, trying to get him to come over.

Nicole nods, "Yeah... better let your pal in on this. He looks like the type that gets into trouble..."

Shateishael blinks, refocusing on the here and now, and raises his head to look at Nick... then picks up his empty coffee cup, idly crumpling it in one fist as he comes over, "Hey, Nick, Nicole. What's up?" He seats himself gracefully, grinning faintly at Nicole's last words.

Thessaloniki says to Nicole, "This morning, I knew only that there was someone missing who worked for the same Archangel as I do, and I thought I'd come on in to town and poke about. I run into an old friend of mine and a couple of his associates at the Alamo, being briefed by none other than Dominic himself. Now, conspiracy is afoot. Yes, an interesting time indeed."

Thessaloniki makes sure Nicole and Slate are introduced, and says, "Nicole, can you tell Nick what you were telling me about the Old Guy?"

Nicole nods, "Sure. I was telling your buddy here why it's so important to keep your head down out here. There's a Malakite in town... and no one's let him in on how the Truce is going, for obvious reasons."

Shateishael looks faintly curious, "Uh-huh. Wasn't that common knowledge, though?"

Thessaloniki hehs, then says, "I guess I'm out of touch, Slate." He wows, "So, our side has been keeping him in the dark?"

Nicole grins a little. "Who else would bother talking to him, Theo?"

Shateishael grins at Nick amiably, "Toldja you needed to come into town more! 'Course... the town was a lot smaller then... don't know for sure, Nick. Don't even know who it is... just that there is one." He adds quietly, "Poor guy."

Thessaloniki considers, and says, "That's really strange. I wonder how the Other Side feels about that? Do they know? You said they did, didn't you, Nicole?"

Shateishael says, "And... who is it?"

"Hell yes, they know. The have to, for their own safety. You could imagine what'd happen if he got wind of demons in 'his' city." She continues, "I'll tell you what the really good part is... since the Old Guy's been getting more social lately, the angel clique's elected someone to act as the go-between. Guess who."

Thessaloniki says with a fascinated look, "I couldn't begin to guess."

Shateishael says, "'Old Guy'?"

She nods. "That's what everyone calls him. If he has another name, no one seems to know it. Anyway, they elected that kid. Druiel. A Seraph, can you believe that?"

Shateishael just blinks. Then he shakes his head and says incredulously, "What?!"

She nods at the reaction. "Yeah. A Seraph to pull the wool over a Malakite's eyes. Kobal's laughing his ass off somewhere."

Thessaloniki looks blank, then laughs! He says, "And they expect this to work?"

Nicole shrugs. "It's held up so far... but they're gonna have to find a new representative soon, I think. Drew's been looking a little rough around the edges lately."

Shateishael mutters under his breath, "No kidding! Poor kid..."

Thessaloniki says, "Well, yeah, I can see how that would be a lot to ask of a fellow." He shakes his head, then asks, "And what does the other side think about this? It could get messy if that interface were to break down, no?"

She shakes her head. "Couldn't say. I guess if Tomas ever comes back he'd be next in line for that job... but yeah. If the Old Guy ever found out, there'd be blood everywhere, that much you can bet on."

Shateishael shudders slightly, then says quietly, "Where is this Old Guy?" He's starting to get a sneaking, unpleasant feeling about this whole situation...

Nicole jerks her head back a little. "Treaty Oak, of course. You can find it on any city map. But it's a little hot out there since whoever it was tried to tip him off."

Thessaloniki says, "Well, presume the Old Guy found out and decided to clean out the city, he'd go on a bloody rampage. Eventually enough of the opposition would come in to bring him down, out of self-defense if nothing else. Not only would the Truce be broken, and we'd have wholesale killings -- messy! -- but the Old Guy would renounce as a traitor any angel who refused to commit suicide by helping him. Of course that'd be suicide too, because Dominic is in town and would be perfectly happy to cope with any such angel rather mercilessly, don't you think?" He shakes his head, "What a mess."

Nicole blinks. "He's here? You saw him outside the Alamo?"

Thessaloniki says, "No, just inside. I presume, however, he's quite capable of going where he sees fit, and that he'll find things out. It is, after all, his job, and, he's good at it. Always best to have someone who enjoys their work doing something, isn't it?"

Nicole looks relieved. "Oh. Still giving that 'not your friends' speech to the newcomers. That's a relief."

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Yes. He also sends someone out to my place every month or so, just to make sure I haven't slipped. I don't think he trusts me, because I don't really care too much as long as someone's not too obvious. It's why I misread Wrench earlier. I will have to be a little more careful out here."

Shateishael murmurs quietly, "Yes... of course -- out away from the rock." He thinks... The Old Guy is the Malachite and seneschal of the Treaty Oak, while Mitrah is a Kyriotate, and seneschal of Enchanted Rock itself... "So... whose Tether is the oak? And where is it exactly?"

"Yeah, that's Judgement." Nicole takes a breath, "Well, from what I can tell, Treaty Oak belongs to The Sword... can't tell why though."

Shateishael says, "Ah... and that's why they chose Drew, yes."

Thessaloniki nods, "Yeah, I guess that makes a little sense." He shakes his head, asking, "Nobody can really want that to happen, can they?"

Nicole mms, "Well, the Oak is out here on the west side; not too far away. And no... nobody wants the charade to drop, particularly."

Shateishael says, "And now Drew's gone missing, I take it?"

Nicole nods. "Yeah. No one's seen Drew for a few days -- not since he came to Zara's place on the southside looking for Hugo." She smirks, "As if he'd show his ugly ass there."

Thessaloniki nods and says, "Somebody must, or nobody'd try to get... who's Hugo?"

Shateishael says, "And 'his boy Mackie'?"

Nicole says, "A real slimeball. He and his boss Mackie run the House That Pain Built... pushers, both of them, and not purveying the kind of stuff that Novalis lets slide, either."

Shateishael murmurs to Nick, "Must be 'the other side' folks..."

Thessaloniki says, "What does it front as? Or does it even try to appear to be respectable?" He nods, saying, "And, I can see why he'd come here, if he were desperate. Maybe Hugo wouldn't be there, but someone might know someone."

Nicole smirks. "It's a Tether, Theo. The front is the smack house."

Thessaloniki asks, "Then why haven't the mortals shut it down? I keep reading in the paper that they're getting both pretty good and pretty persistent about that." Shateishael rests his chin in his hand, and studies Lauren curiously as he listens to Nicole speak. Do the diabolicals care at all if there's a truce city here, I wonder?

Nicole shrugs. "Couldn't say. Maybe Hugo pays someone off. Maybe they're just scared of Mackie."

Shateishael says, "What are they?"

Nicole hmms? "Hugo and Mackie? A couple of Fleurity's boys. Scuzzballs. Hugo's such a slime I don't think he could be anything but a Balseraph."

Shateishael sighs softly, then says quietly, "And what is a Fleurity?"

"Fleurity? One of the new players. Prince of Drugs."

Shateishael nods, "Got it, thank you."

Thessaloniki says, "Oy. They should sell programs at the door."

Shateishael nods ruefully at Nick, "Scorecards, maybe."

Nicole grins. "I still say it sounds like a girl's name."

Shateishael gives Nicole a curious glance, "What's wrong with that?"

Nicole grins. "Nothing. But I like to make the assertion because I have it on authority he doesn't like the implication."

Shateishael nods, "Sorry, forgot about excessive pride."

Thessaloniki sighs and says, "Would've been useful if good ol' Dominic had warned us what we were walking into, rather than just trying to scare us into behaving. Might have done him more good, honestly." He adds, "Although, if we do find something big, it's nice to know he's handy to help out if something big goes down."

Shateishael gives Nick a ruefully amused glance, "You're kidding, right? I'd be stunned if he stepped in to help with anything."

Thessaloniki says, "I was just thinking that. I was also just wondering if at least one of the other archangels wouldn't be happier to see the truce ended, too. All sorts of people might be willing to see it come apart."

Nicole grins. "You'd be surprised. He's actually pretty active. Not like Gabriel or Michael, but he's easier to find on earth than someone like Jean." Thessaloniki nods, quietly, and doesn't mention he hasn't seen his archangel in multiple years. The blonde woman arches an eyebrow. "Look, I don't know what you guys are into with Wrench, but I made a promise to Zara to help keep the peace..."

Shateishael sighs quietly. Too much conflicting information... Thessaloniki heys, then says, "That's what we're here to do too, really. Wrench needs some help running security at a show he's responsible for during the Festival. Not a big deal, I hope. We're going to do him a little favor. At least, presuming the band isn't blatantly hideous. But it's a good possibility."

Shateishael gives Nicole a wryly amused glance, "It was on Zara's recommendation, in fact, that we tentatively agreed to do so."

She nods. "Well. Wrenchial is something of a mover and shaker in Austin social circles. If you're going to ingratiate yourself, that'd be the way to do it. If Zara says he's okay, then you can trust her. I doubt he'd do anything to alienate the angel clique."

Shateishael says curiously, "Why?"

Thessaloniki adds, "And, at least in my mind, I don't see how running security can be anything but good all around, right? Keep the peace and so on." He adds, "He also misses Tomas, which I give more credit than I probably should."

Nicole shrugs. "I think he likes it here. He doesn't strike me as real ambitious... all he does is listen to, mix, or look for loud music. And in Austin at least he doesn't have the rest of the Fallen climbing all over themselves behind his back to bring him down. It's a sweet life as Infernal lives go."

Shateishael nods slowly. Well... guess that answers my question as to whether the Fallen care if there's a truce city... Thessaloniki asks, "Either of you mind if I try and get insight from the Other Side?"

Shateishael grins lopsidedly at Nick, "Not I. Damned if I know what to say to her though."

Nicole shrugs. "None of my business."

Thessaloniki says, "Be right back." He stands up and makes his way back over to the redhead, saying, "Excuse me?"

Lauren looks up from her third or fourth cup and arches a brow from behind her shades. "Yeah?"

Thessaloniki says, "Hi. Crazy old coot again. My friend and I are new in town, and we've just had someone let us in on some of the politics that are going on. I must say that I find them pretty confusing, and I was wondering if you'd be interested in coming over and discussing some of the implications with us?"

Lauren turns her head a little, looking over at the small group. "With... you," she says, "-and the Elohite."

Shateishael says to Nicole, "You want a refill?"

Nicole shakes her head, "Nah, thanks. I should be getting up and around soon anyway."

Shateishael nods to Nicole and rises, "No problem. Nice talking with you," then weaves easily between the tables to the coffee urn. He makes two cups of coffee and one of the same herbal tea as Lauren was drinking, then brings them all over to the table again, setting them down with some sugar and cream.

Thessaloniki smiles, and says, "I'd be quite interested to hear your opinions of what's going on around here lately, and I thought you would certainly have a different and fascinating viewpoint on the subject."

Lauren looks around somewhat uncomfortably. "Uh... right."

Thessaloniki says, "You seem uncomfortable with the idea, and that was the farthest thing from my mind, so I shan't push. I tend not to care who people work for; instead I notice how they act -- and I forget everyone doesn't. When they're on my property, they do, or they leave, one way or another."

He pauses a moment, then adds, "I just found out, for instance, that there's a Malakite guarding a tether here, and that he's been creatively deceived for some time to keep him happy. So, for the good of the many, a small group is lying to a stalwart defender. Does this sound like something the quote good unquote guys would do? Yet it definitely is. I thought you might have appreciated the irony." He shrugs, "I'm sorry if I've made you uncomfortable, and I understand if you don't want to go into it."

Lauren stares openly for several long, long seconds. "Look... what do you want from me? Who sent you?" Something in her throat suggests serious tension.

Shateishael looks up at the tension in Lauren's voice... then quietly murmurs, "'Scuse me, ma'am," to Nicole. He picks up the cups and moves over to stand slightly behind and to the side of Nick, setting the cup of herbal tea down near to the increasingly tense Lilim... then waits for the much smoother Ofanite to ease things down. Lauren doesn't seem terribly relieved by the sudden presence of a much larger man flanking the first. Her left hand is showing the whites of her knuckles where she's gripping the table's edge. Shateishael eyes Nick and the woman... then casually steps back a bit, so he looks less like he's looming.

Thessaloniki holds up his hands, open and palms out, "Hey, it's okay. Nobody sent me but me. I work for someone who's perpetually absent, so there's no grand plan or entrapment or anything. I just wanted to talk and see if you had any interesting thoughts that might not have occurred to me, because I thought you'd have more experience with the local politics, and perhaps some insight I don't." He looks at his friend, adding, "Let's leave the lady some space, Slate. I've upset her; I was thoughtless. No cause for worry here."

Thessaloniki backs up a step, urging Slate to move further away also, then backs up another step or two, and apologizes again, "I am sorry, ma'am. I shan't bother you again," and moves away, smiling sheepishly. He returns to Nicole and his coffee cup, murmuring, "I am so fucking out of touch today," to himself. Shateishael gives a faintly regretful glance at the Lilim, then sighs quietly and shrugs, following Nick. He gives one of the cups of coffee to the Ofanite, and takes the other for himself.

Lauren sighs heavily from her table. "Look, guys... I know you're new here, but... I'm under a lot of stress lately. That's not the way to approach me for information, okay?"

Shateishael glances up at the Lilim and grins, "We're open to suggestions on how one does that, I guess?"

She frowns at the cooling cup of tea across from her. "I guess I thought you were someone else."

Shateishael frowns thoughtfully... he did all the right things -- approach so he could be seen, wait until invited to sit... he sighs again, murmuring to Nick, "Let me guess... it's either more small talk, or the human standards of politeness have changed again?"

Thessaloniki looks back at Lauren and smiles. He says, "I'm sorry to have added to your stress, Lauren. I would be happy to talk to you about anything or nothing, but not at the cost of making you unhappy. That's the farthest thing from my mind."

Lauren shakes her head. "Sorry. Too much caffeine or something. What do you want to say to me?"

Shateishael nods once, watching Nick -- got it, more small talk. He hesitates, then adds cautiously, almost as if recited more from memory than naturally spoken, "You are welcome to join us at our table if you please?"

Thessaloniki chuckles, and says, "I believe I can see how she might be upset, my friend. We are, after all, unknown members of the adversaries, yes?"

Shateishael gives Lauren a thoughtful look, then says puzzledly to Nick, "Well, yeah... but I thought here was neutral ground or something?"

Thessaloniki asks Lauren, "I was just curious how you felt about some of the things going on lately. I hear that someone is trying to get the attention of the Old Guy, and break it to him that there are diabolicals at hand... Personally, I think that would be a disaster. I was curious if you thought so too. I was curious if you had any idea who might consider such a thing." He shrugs, adding, "But I apparently worried you, and that wasn't my intention, and for that I apologize."

Lauren takes an experimental sip of the tea placed in front of her. "I was confused, I guess. You reminded me of someone... anyway, I don't know who'd be that vicious, or that stupid. All I know is that about three days ago someone stacked up four Hellsworn at the foot of the Treaty Oak and left them for the cops to find."

Shateishael blinks... then says cautiously, "Nick, or I, remind you of someone? And... define... stacked, please? As in... dead?"

She frowns. "Stacked as in like logs, handsome. Corpses. Four of them."

Shateishael nods, then adds, "Sugar?" holding up a packet.

"No, thank you."

Shateishael nods, and waits curiously to see if she'll answer the first question too... he glances at Nick, idly trying to figure out who he looks like. She wasn't nervous earlier while talking to him... so it has to be Nick, he guesses. Thessaloniki smiles quietly and says, "It's the loud sweater, isn't it? All the madmen have them; it's a giveaway, I know."

Shateishael laughs! -then grins, "Sorry," and carefully picks up his coffee, appearing to concentrate on it.

Lauren laughs quietly, a hiss of exhaled air that comes with a sudden release of tension. "Sorry about that. Guess I was mistaken."

Shateishael gives the Lilim a suddenly focused glance, Wonder if one of those Hellsworn was her former boyfriend? Do Lilim bother with Hellsworn? Thessaloniki says, "It's all right. Would you join us? We can confound everyone else by getting along, and tell dirty jokes and nothing more serious, if that would be easier for you." Shateishael grins sideways at Nick... then politely slides over so she would have half the table to herself... and then just goes back to his coffee.

Lauren smiles a bit more. "That's sweet of you to offer, Pops. But I really gotta be going... sun's up and I have work to do. I'm sure I'll see you around." She rises quietly and begins to move toward the door. She gives Slate a little wink. "'specially you, handsome. Even if you are sharp as a brick."

Shateishael grins lazily and doesn't bother answering. Thessaloniki smiles, "Okay, Lauren. It was nice to make your acquaintance. Do feel free to find us if you're feeling philosophical. Or perhaps just Slate, if you're feeling otherwise." He waves, grinning cheerfully. Lauren also grins lopsidedly before she turns to leave. Shateishael raises an amused eyebrow at Nick, but once again... doesn't bother replying. He's not worried if a Lilim finds him amusingly dense. Thessaloniki looks back to Nicole, and says, "He gets all the girls, you know?" and grins cheerfully at her.

Nicole smirks and shakes her head. "Yeah. Real ladies man."

Shateishael snorts and shakes his head amusedly. Thessaloniki shrugs, adding, "Ah well, I tried. I wonder who I reminded her of?"

Nicole shrugs, "Who knows? Lilim get mixed up with all kinds of weird stuff. Funny that you freaked her like that, though... she's a VIP from what I've heard."

Shateishael shrugs quietly, "For a VIP she's gotten knocked around a bit."

Thessaloniki hmms, "There's certainly someone she doesn't want to talk to, VIP or no. That's too bad."

Nicole frowns. "Maybe. Is it just me, or was she wearing a lot of makeup?"

Thessaloniki blinks, and says, "I didn't notice. I was distracted by her hair." He adds, "Red," but he's sure Nicole had noticed.

Shateishael says, "Her hair? I was watching the jacket." He looks at Nicole, "Why? D'you think she was covering bruises or something?"

The Mercurian shrugs. "It's possible. I heard someone big and important passed through recently. Maybe the meeting didn't go so well."

Thessaloniki says, "I wonder who she thought was Elohim."

Shateishael looks thoughtful... then sighs softly, "Guess my comment about better luck next time with boyfriends was a bit... in bad taste."

Thessaloniki looks at Nicole, "Probably you, I'd guess." He says, "Ooh. Well, you couldn't have known," to Slate.

Shateishael nods quietly, idly stirring his coffee, and adds casually, "She's got no fighting training either."

Nicole says, "Well, that's no surprise. Not in her line of work."

Thessaloniki says, "Not everyone does, old friend."

Shateishael says, "No, I mean she doesn't even know how to dodge well, Nick... she defended herself with her weapons hand!"

Thessaloniki shrugs, and asks, "Is that bad?"

Shateishael glares amusedly at the Ofanite, "Nick, you know damn well how to dodge -- don't you play innocent with me, man!" Thessaloniki keeps a straight face long enough to catch Slate's horrified response, and then breaks up in giggles. Shateishael arghs, and tosses an empty cream container at him. The Mercurian just shakes her head.

Thessaloniki chuckles, and says, "Well, Nicole, you said you should be off. Can I offer you a lift anywhere, or can you make your own way?"

Nicole grins in response, fishing out her keys from a pocket of her jeans. "No, thanks, I'm good. I'll see you guys around."

Shateishael nods politely as Nicole leaves, "Ma'am."

Thessaloniki says, "Take care, Nicole."

Shateishael glances at the Ofanite, "Now what?"

Thessaloniki says, "I dunno. Check out Stool before we talk to Wrench, maybe."

Shateishael says, "How long a drive is it now from your place to here?"

Thessaloniki says, "Three hours, maybe two and a half if I'm driving."

Shateishael hms... then nods, "Okay. Think we need to find a place in town instead then?"

Thessaloniki says, "Either that or drive back and forth in the dead of night. I've only one change of clothes, so I'll need to head home sometime. I didn't expect this to be quite so involved. I dunno about this fusion thingie, but Tomas and Drew bother me a lot."

Shateishael nods quietly, "All right. Let's ask Zara about places to stay, then."

Thessaloniki nods. "A hotel; we don't need to impose on anyone. Hotels have some perks, anyway. Parking, for instance." Shateishael grins.

Thessaloniki makes a point to find Zara when she has a moment and to thank her for her hospitality. He asks her if there is anything he can do for her, and apologizes for any strife he caused by upsetting Lauren. He also asks her if she can recommend a nice hotel in town, and takes notes on that. Shateishael follows Nick in and, once they're done talking, curiously asks Zara if she's ever seen Lauren's boyfriend? or anyone else here that looks like Nick? Thessaloniki chuckles, and says again, "It's the sweater."

Zara, in her usual calming fashion, assures Theo that Lauren has been under tremendous stresses lately on the job and is probably just tired, and not to worry; she has plans to remedy that in short order. She can also point out a decent hotel downtown. As for the other question, she shakes her head. "If she's got one, she never brought him here-- and honey, I've never seen anyone that looks quite like you do."

Shateishael grins quietly. Thessaloniki also grins, and says, "Thanks. I think." To himself he thinks, This is one unflappable entity. I wonder if there's anything I can do to help her, that would be really useful? I'll have to ponder that. A moment later he curiously asks Zara, "What does someone like Lauren do to relax, anyway? A day at the spa?"

Zara hmms? "Oh," she smiles, "I specialize in relaxation, you know. She's a good friend, so I have a few special techniques that I keep in reserve for my best customers. If you're ever in need, Theo, you call me, all right? and I'll fix you up."

Thessaloniki smiles, "I didn't know. I'm glad she's in good hands, and I shall remember. Thank you for all your help."

Zara nods. "Don't mention it, honey."

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Last modified: 2002-Mar-30 13:54:51

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