NachtMusik -- Logs

After Druiel's spectacular and messy vessel-suicide, Slate makes sure that on the next of his weekly visits to both Mitrah and the Old Guy he spends a little time updating them. He explains Drew's actions, that the little Seraph may be absent for a bit, and that when he returns he should have a brand new vessel and a less... 'terminal' Role. Slate also wonders, but doesn't say aloud, if this is what Laurence wanted -- a sort of changed mental intuition in regards to mortals, on the part of the twitchy little Sword Seraph. Slate sure hopes so... and he hopes Drew gets full marks for it. The poor kid could really use some encouragement from his rather perplexing, distant boss, Slate thinks.

On the way back from town, about four days before his date with Marlena, Nick stops at a florist and buys four long-stemmed roses. When he gets home he finds a quiet place, then holds a rose upside down and concentrates for a moment. The rose browns, then blackens and becomes crispy and old, as Nick whisks it through the ages. Unfortunately, the petals all fall off and leave the only the stem. He smiles, "And, this is why I bought extra."

The next afternoon, he tries again, not pushing as fast or as hard, letting the rose fade to a mere five years old; an ugly dried thing, but with all its leaves intact. He grins cheerfully and puts it someplace out of harm's way.

The day of his date with Marlena, Nick takes a little extra time getting ready. He washes the DeLorean and vacuums it, making sure his usual kit of "good stuff to have in the car" is all there and neatly packed in the back so it doesn't slide around. He also makes sure he'll have plenty of gas in the tank.

He has a long, hot shower, and dresses neatly in a black suit jacket and dark gray slacks, with only his tie showing off his usual bright colors and patterns. He makes sure the ugly rose is neatly and carefully tucked inside his jacket. He also makes sure he has the tickets, and notes on the reservation for afterwards.

Leaving himself plenty of time, he drives off in the DeLorean to the address Marlena had given him when he made the date. Arriving at the demoness' apartment about fifteen minutes early, he makes sure he can find it, and spends that time idly driving around, getting to know the neighborhood and how to get where he'll need to get tonight. He gives himself five minutes to park and reach her door, as close to on time as anyone might want him to be.

The door is answered by a lantern-jawed young man whose self-assured grin and absolutely perfect hair ID him instantly as Powers Long. "Oh, you must be here to see Marlena, am I right? Of course I am, come on in." He leads Nick into the apartment.

Thessaloniki smiles, "You certainly are," and follows the younger-looking man into the apartment, looking around curiously.

The apartment is... pretty swank. It's in the upscale section of town not far from Tomas' domicile, and is quite large, being done up mostly in reds and featuring lots of broad windows looking out onto the downtown skyline. One wall of the living area is taken up with a pair of workstations, of unknown make but with a styling that screams 'expensive.' The stations actually face in opposite directions; whether this is necessity or just out of a desire to keep from looking over one's shoulder isn't clear. Powers sits down on the sofa, "Have a seat, Marlena'll be out real soon." The television that this couch faces is, quite simply, ridiculous. It's larger than anything Nick's seen in a private residence, and approximately two inches thick.

Thessaloniki smiles, "Thank you." Once sitting down, he looks around the apartment and comments, "This is a lovely place." He looks back at Powers and asks, "Is it you or Marlena who has such good taste in decoration, or do you work at it together?" He is quite happy and able to make small talk to fill the moments until Marlena is ready.

Powers grins, "Oh, this old place? We agreed on it together, but Marlena picked up the furniture. I've simply no eye for furniture." Powers makes small talk for a few minutes. He's extremely good at talking at length about nothing at all. Eventually Marlena appears from the depths of the apartment, wearing a burgundy dress with a faint sort of sheen that looks quite amazing on her. Her hair is carefully tied up with a long, green feather. She's eager to be away, and the two depart posthaste.

Thessaloniki looks at Marlena as she comes out, "Hello, Marlena. You look lovely tonight." He stands and meets her, and as they walk towards the door he says, "I have a little something for you." He opens his jacket a little and brings forth a single rose bud; it is dried and hard, black and ancient. He smiles and offers it to Marlena, and even as the first sort of confused look conflicts with the, 'Oh, that's nice' that was there, he concentrates, and pulls the years back off the bud, so that in a few seconds it is once again red, fragrant, and healthy. When the minor concentration this took is over, he says, "Sometimes beautiful things come from unexpected places." Only then does he let her actually take the rejuvenated bloom. He has been casually careful to be sure Marlena was between Powers and the bud, so the other demon didn't see what happened.

Marlena smiles, delighted, "How lovely, Nick. Let's be on our way, and leave Powers to his evening constitutional. You look wonderful tonight, dear."

Thessaloniki thanks Marlena and escorts her to his car, opening the door for her, both because he's a traditionalist and because the DeLorean has slightly odd doors. Once they're both in the car, he says, "To the symphony!" and drives away, deftly navigating through Austin.

Marlena smiles, "How gallant," allowing Nick to handle the admittedly unconventional gull-wing doors. She rides mostly quietly, just watching the people go by at speed. Traffic is light this early in the evening, and the valet at Symphony Hall isn't quite sure what to make of the DeLorean.

Thessaloniki smiles and has a generous tip for the valet, and knows through prior experience exactly what to say to help him relax. He escorts Marlena from the parking garage to the Hall, smiling cheerfully at people and things. He makes a little small talk, asking Marlena how she has been, and mentioning how much he's been looking forward to this evening. Other than the minor miracle, he ignores completely the issue of who each of them may work for, simply enjoying spending some time with a lovely and intelligent companion.

Marlena's been well, though dealing with troublesome folk at work. "Of course," she says with a smile, "-who doesn't?" She's been looking forward to this excursion as well, and is quite relieved to be spending an evening out for a change, and for once not at the coffee bar. Up ahead, a few ushers in black tuxedos pass through the crowd near the door collecting tickets. Nick recognizes one of the voices as it approaches. "Tickets please, tickets..."

Although the symphony hall black-tie uniform is a serious change from his usual attire, there's no hiding the brutally cropped hair. Ian McKay is milling through the crowd checking tickets. He reaches Nick and Marlena, and though he blinks once, he manages to conceal his surprise, asking instead, "May I please see your tickets, sir, ma'am?"

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "Certainly," as he produces them for Ian. Other than a pleasant grin, he doesn't acknowledge that he knows Ian, exactly as Ian seemed to want.

Ian nods, checking the tickets against his clipboard, and asks, "Would you like to be seated immediately, or will sir and ma'am be waiting for the curtain?"

Thessaloniki asks Marlena, "Which would you prefer?"

Marlena smiles, "Let's find our seats, shall we?" She grins conspiratorially and murmurs, "These heels are vicious."

Thessaloniki grins at Marlena, then says to Ian, "The lady suggests we take our seats, and I think we shall."

Ian nods, "Very good. If you'll please follow me..." He turns and leads the pair through the foyer, which is quite impressive, constructed in a classical French style with obviously no expense spared. This, of course, doesn't stop at least two or three very large silver belt buckles and bolo ties from glinting in the light of the great chandelier. Ian leads the two upstairs, weaving with practiced certainty through the complex of small rear hallways, then opens and holds the balcony door for them. It's a private balcony, seating only three. "Sir," he nods, "Ma'am. Your box. Please enjoy the show."

Thessaloniki makes sure Marlena is seated and then sits himself, smiling and admiring the view. He murmurs to her, "Here we are." He grins and adds quietly, "We should have the whole box, so if you wanted to take off murderous heels, you certainly could, with no one the wiser."

Marlena mms quietly, "That's a lovely idea, I think." She takes her seat in the middle and sets the vicious, if quite becoming, heels aside. The view itself is quite good, with a commanding view of the stage straight ahead. The acoustics of the place are also impressive as the orchestra tunes up. Ian waits for the two to be seated, then closes the door behind them, squeezing out the yellow rectangle of light and leaving just the dull glow of the stage lights. Thessaloniki smiles and watches the orchestra warm up and people file in and settle in before the show, although he makes eye contact with Marlena, smiling happily at her, often.

The hall fills up gradually, a slow-flowing current moving through the shadow below, picked out by tiny spots of light as ushers wield their flashlights, bringing people to their seats. The house speakers are playing Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 while the hall fills up. Marlena smiles at Nick contentedly. "You have good taste for a mechanic." She grins.

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Why, thank you." He adds, "I haven't always been a mechanic. I used to work for the railroad, doing different things." He smiles, "I found the Ranch out there while I was doing that. It's a beautiful country, and I came back when I found something to be doing that put me in one place for a while." He adds with a twinkle in his eye, "If it seems less jarring, consider me an automobile restorer, or even an automotive historian."

Marlena nods. "Oh, yes?" She grins, "You don't strike me as the John Henry sort..."

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Oh, I was a surveyor. The tracks followed, using the lay of the land that we'd chosen and the right of way that we bought. Interesting and dangerous work that let me poke around most of the country just looking at things."

Marlena ahs and nods. "How very interesting. That must have been quite a time in your life." At that moment the stage lights begin to come up. Over the house speakers, the impresario announces, "Ladies and gentlemen, honored patrons, the Austin Symphony Hall is proud to present to you a night of the works of Vivaldi. The Austin Philharmonic is conducted by William Wilhelm, and appears with the generous support of..." The impresario recites a short list of commercial patrons and private sponsors, and ends his introduction with the first suite of the Four Seasons.

Thessaloniki nods and settles back to listen to the announcement, and then to the music. Marlena smiles at her companion, and as the first strings of the Four Seasons begin, she rests a gloved hand atop his. The orchestra plays very well. Nick watches the orchestra a little, and spends some time looking at the beauty of the building itself, but really isn't looking at much at all, simply letting the music wash pleasantly over him, absorbing the sound and experience. Occasionally he does think to smile at Marlena, casting her an attentive, admiring glance.

When the music fades to its conclusion, Nick sighs and leans back in his chair, smiling happily and letting the mood linger for a moment. He looks at Marlena and says, "That was very nice, don't you think?"

Marlena opens her eyes slowly, adjusting to the rising house lights, and smiles, "Very lovely. Thank you, Nick, this was just what I needed."

Thessaloniki says, "I'm glad to hear that." He watches people leave, a steadily flowing stream of bodies from the floor, adding, "I'm in no terrible hurry. Once the way is a bit clearer, we can make our way off to a pleasant dinner."

Marlena nods, "Certainly." The crowd filters out slowly, and after some minutes Ian McKay opens the doors to the box again. "Sir, ma'am. Your car is waiting, if you care to follow me." He leads them back through the thinning crowd, easily guiding them to the entrance. Apparently he shares his brother's gift for navigating crowds. As promised, the DeLorean is ready and waiting out front when they take their leave of the younger McKay, and the valet has taken especial care of the vehicle, to the point that he seems rather relieved to be returning it.

Thessaloniki thanks Ian and the valet, and tips them both appropriately again for their excellent help. He helps the lady he is escorting into the car, and then drives sedately through the night in the notable, wedge-shaped, steel car, apparently knowing where he is going already. He tries to think of something innocuous enough to talk about, so asks, "Have you been in Austin long?"

Marlena nods, "Quite a few years, though I have to say that business has certainly improved in the past few decades. Things have improved quite a bit since the Seventies... though I suppose you could say that about so many things." She smirks.

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Cars certainly have, and I fear that's what I've been paying most attention to. I live right outside of Austin, but hardly ever came into town." He pauses, interrupted by driving for a moment, then continues, "I do tend to travel a lot in the summers, driving all over the country looking for parts and new cars to restore, but in the winter I'm a regular hermit."

Marlena laughs quietly. "Nothing wrong at all with that. I'm something of a shut-in most of the time myself... now that the Net is so popular I can do so much of my work from home."

Thessaloniki smiles and comments, "Now that's a pity, to have someone as lovely as yourself hidden away most of the time. I guess I will be glad for the coffee shop, then."

Marlena mms, "Flatterer. Though I'm glad for it myself... until the coffee shop came in there was simply nowhere to go that was quiet and wouldn't look at you strangely for owning a laptop."

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Laptops have gotten less strange themselves, which doesn't hurt." He pulls in to what is obviously a Chinese restaurant, both from the pagoda-like shape of the building, and the name, 'The Golden Dragon's Egg.' He parks, then opens the door for Marlena, escorting her in to the desk, where a party of two under the name 'Thessaloniki' is expected.

The staff ushers the two in quickly, and brings tea. The restaurant is decorated in a semi-traditional Chinese style, like most Chinese restaurants are. Tea is brought. In the dull red glow of the paper-shrouded lights, Marlena's gown is faintly luminescent. Thessaloniki serves Marlena tea, then says, "So, besides work and loitering in the coffee shop, which may be one and the same, what do you enjoy, Marlena?" He settles back to listen.

Marlena mms, then sips her tea. "That's a good question, Nick... outside of my work, I don't have much to do. It's time-consuming what I do, you know. Mostly I catch the evening news and curl up with a book before bed." She sighs a bit, "Not that the news lately has been interesting, or at all uplifting."

Thessaloniki asks, "Oh, have you developed a sleep habit, too? That seems pretty common around here." He sips his tea, then says, "I sleep sometimes, if I haven't anything more interesting to do, but I often just cruise around the Interstates all night." He asks, "You look for uplifting news? What would that be?"

Marlena smiles, "I find that if I don't, I think constantly all night and find I overwork myself the next day. News? Oh, well... I don't find combat particularly interesting. I find that live mortals are quite a bit more useful." She frowns a little, shaking her head. "That rotting buffoon has been laughing quite a bit about it, I'm sure."

Thessaloniki laughs, then says, "I guess that would be a problem. Driving around all night distracts me pretty well." To the other he nods, "Well, I have to agree with that, yes." He smiles a little, and says quietly, "If it helps, the people I work with generally want to stop him, too." He gets an odd look for a moment, then says, "Oh. Sorry. I wasn't going to talk about work; at least, not along those lines."

Marlena shakes her head. "No, no, I did bring it up. I'm not surprised, really... public relations is not his strength."

Thessaloniki nods, "It would be a difficult thing to put a terribly good spin on, I must admit." He sips his tea, then says, "I must say, I have an easy time forgetting that you work for the Other Side. It's a very pleasant thing to forget."

Marlena smiles a little. "That's very flattering, Nicky... but I could be a killer for all you know. A dangerous Calabite?" She sips her tea. The enamel cup in her fingertips continues to contain its payload, lending the lie to her statement.

Thessaloniki smiles, "You'd have had a difficult time fooling Slate that evening at the Ranch. Even still, you could be collecting weaknesses to give to others." He shrugs, adding, "On the other hand, so could I." He sets his teacup down, then says, "I hope talking to me won't be causing you any difficulty."

Marlena laughs quietly. "I don't think you are, my dear. You don't have enough guile to be Lilim. But then again, neither do I. We're safe, no?" At the last she shakes her head. "I can deal with that... I wouldn't worry about it, Nicky. The ones you're referring to don't try very hard in Austin. There simply aren't enough rules."

Thessaloniki is interrupted for a moment or three by a waiter. He orders, asks Marlena what she would like, and she decides. The waiter leaves again. Nick lets him depart, then says, "I won't worry about your side of things, then, and will just deal with my own inquisitors. I'm used to that by now, though. They pay extra attention to me and others like me."

Marlena mms, "I've heard a few stories about your inquisitors." She laughs ruefully, "I've written a few about them."

Thessaloniki smiles, "As irritated as I sometimes feel by being so closely watched and probed, I'm glad they're there, and don't begrudge them a difficult and unpleasant position. And... considering some of the things I've done lately, and the apparent lack of attention I have paid to me, I can see how they'd want to know."

Marlena smiles, "I wish I could say the same about ours."

Thessaloniki grins, "If you can't get a fair hearing in Heaven, where can you?" He says, "I must admit, it's much harder to laugh about it while it's being done to you, though." He shrugs, then says, "Anyway, I won't bore you with the details, if you don't want to hear."

Marlena shakes her head, "Don't worry, Nick, I understand. Nothing is a cliché when it happens to you."

The meal arrives, and for a moment or three that is a lovely distraction. Nick pauses to admire the food as it is served, appreciating the way it looks, how it smells, and only finally how it tastes. Eventually, he picks up conversation again, saying, "I expect I get a little more scrutiny from our watchers than many, because of the person I work for, and my apparent lack of assignment. I can't blame them, I guess."

Marlena grins around a mouthful of kung pau. "You know what they say about idle hands, Nick..."

Thessaloniki laughs, "Yes, I do. If I were idle, I might worry. However, I have instructions and am busily doing that." He takes a bite of his own meal and watches the demoness eat for a moment, before adding, "In fact, I'd been doing that for almost twenty years with little interruption until this spring. Things have been interesting since then."

Marlena says, "I've noticed. It's been quite a year, hasn't it? And only the first of another thousand."

Thessaloniki laughs, "It just occurred to me; I should have been getting autographs." He chuckles cheerfully and agrees, "Yes. It should be fun, whatever else happens."

Marlena grins. "It'll be a good year. The market's turning and the city's kept from burning one more year... despite everyone's best efforts. I have a good feeling."

Thessaloniki laughs, "Oh, no, my best efforts, as confusing as they were, were definitely on the side of 'do not burn.' I have a good feeling too, though. I may spend a little more time in Austin proper."

Marlena smiles, "I'd certainly not mind seeing you around more often."

Thessaloniki finishes chewing a bite, then says, "Well, that certainly wouldn't discourage me, either. However, I'm happy to drive in and see you whenever you like."

Marlena grins, "I imagine it doesn't take much to convince you to drive, no?" She finishes her chicken and sits back, folding her hands. "So, tell me, Nicky... your little group seems quite tolerant. But you haven't been in Austin long?" She grins, "Usually it takes quite a while for angels to... loosen up."

Thessaloniki says, "It might be harder to keep me from driving." He considers her question for a moment, using eating some rice as a way to give himself a moment to think, before he replies, "I don't know if we are as tolerant as I'd like. I've had the concept of the Ranch for a long time -- not as long as the Treaty, but for a good sixty years or so. It hasn't too often been used, and there are always some tensions when people who might not get along turn up. I, at first, really didn't like Austin, actually. I think that has to do with one of the first things I was involved in, which became very complicated very quickly, and having been lied to and pretty much abused by some of the local angels." He ponders another moment, then says, "In fact, it was the straight-dealing of the demonic folks at that point that was something that made it easier to get used to more quickly."

Marlena grins a little, "Don't grow too used to it... I know of only one demon in town with that sort of reputation, and he's quite unique. And has quite a checkered reputation."

Thessaloniki finishes his own meal, then says, "I'm always wary when dealing with demons, Marlena, even lovely, friendly ones like you. I'm not used to having to be wary of the angels I work with, and that very much put me off. Not only has that issue been resolved, but I've worked things out with the folks here, which is good. Even better, I now have a handle on who I can depend upon for what, at least among the angels. The demons I'll continue to be careful around."

Marlena smiles. "You're sharper than you look, Nicky, you know?"

Thessaloniki smiles, "Why, thank you, Marlena. I do try. I've had a while to practice, and part of what I do is to disarm people so they don't expect much." He chuckles, then says, "Do you want to know what really changed my mind about Austin, though?"

Marlena says, "Why, certainly."

Thessaloniki says, "It was something Slate said, to a council in Heaven. There were Seraphs on the council, and he is one himself, so I can't imagine this being anything less than the truth as he utterly believes it. At that point, I was pretty unhappy with Austin and the Truce, and the question was put forth to those of us new in town, 'What do you think of the Truce?' just to see what was going on out here in the battlefield, as it were. Slate said that he was all for it. He said that anything that lessened the fear and misunderstanding between the two different sides was probably a good thing. If we could get over the hate and fear and worry, what good might come out of it? How can we tempt the demons to Light if they're terrified of every angel they meet? In Austin that fear is lessened, and we can actually try and do the best sort of good that we want to be able to do."

Marlena thinks about that for a moment. "Hmmm. But aren't you worried," she asks, "-that familiarity might breed contempt?"

Thessaloniki answers easily, "It might. But certainly less so than fear and hate will. At least with familiarity there's a chance of something good happening."

Marlena laughs softly. "Hope springs eternal... I shouldn't be surprised, should I?"

Thessaloniki smiles, "No. You aren't, are you? Or is it really inconceivable to you that I might actually believe merely doing the right thing and being nice to someone might let them change their mind about who they are and what they want to be doing?"

Marlena says, "I have long experience with demons, Nicky... I think what you're doing is very brave, considering your circumstances and what I know about the average demon. But I can't make bets."

Thessaloniki smiles, "I know. I also know that I'm not looking for the average demon. I'm looking for the tiny, confused percentage way out on the far end of the bell curve, who might be swayed." He adds, "What do you mean by 'considering your circumstances'? I'm curious."

Marlena says, "I just meant that you wouldn't expect someone under Judgement's eye to be too unorthodox in their approach." She grins, adding, "Very brave indeed."

Thessaloniki replies, "I have the mandate of my Superior, 'Do what thou wilt, and be cool,' and his support when I need his help. I have been offered a Princehood by someone who could have granted it, and I wasn't tempted. I don't fear Judgement, because I have nothing to hide from them; they have the same goals as I do, even if they choose to achieve them differently. Perhaps it is brave. Perhaps it is foolish. But it's what I'm doing, or at least part of it." He looks a bit sheepish, "Sorry. I'm ranting. I guess I feel more strongly about this than I thought."

Marlena laughs softly. "No need to apologize. I think you need a drink. Shall we?"

Thessaloniki says, "That would be lovely, yes."

Marlena nods. "Excellent. Shall we head back to my place? I've got a much more complete bar than I think they've got here... and quieter, too."

Thessaloniki nods, "That would be nice, yes." He flags down the waiter and takes care of details like the check. The drive back to Marlena's is uneventful, and Nick doesn't continue his ranting.

Marlena lets the two back into the apartment, where Powers is still in front of the TV, grinning lasciviously at the pretty young local news anchor. He stands up when the door opens, "Well, hello there... back already?" He and Marlena share a brief look, and his smile changes pitch somehow. "Well, as much as I'd love to stay and ask about every little detail... I think I'm going to head down to the studio." He smiles, grabbing his coat on the way past, "You kids have fun, now... don't do anything I wouldn't!" And with that, Powers Long has left the building.

Thessaloniki smiles at Powers, wishes him a pleasant evening, and successfully resists the urge to respond to his farewell with, "Is there anything?" After Powers has left, Nick says to Marlena, "You know, you said that I seem sharper than you might expect. It's also probably true of Shateishael, likely even more so. He's a very wise person."

Marlena grins a little, walking around the corner past one of the large windows, returning with a tall, green bottle and a pair of glasses. "I've found that many Seraphs cloak their wits in bluntness... it puts off anyone not sharp enough to see and can be quite misleading... which is sometimes an advantage. Quite devious." She laughs, pouring out the wine, "I approve."

Thessaloniki takes the glass she offers him and thanks her. He sits on the sofa and chuckles, "I don't know that I would have ever tried to think of bluntness as devious. Aren't they opposites?"

Marlena shrugs fluidly. "Perhaps. Then again, you and I might be considered opposites. And I think we go quite well together."

Thessaloniki smiles, "I'm pleased to know you think that. I must warn you that I'm usually not this interesting. Detailed descriptions of the repair and rebuilding of a water pump from a 1924 truck usually bore people nearly to tears. I'm glad you've enjoyed my company, despite that risk."

Marlena smiles, "My entire work, dear, is back there in that machine. If you'd like me to bore you in return, I'm more than adequately equipped."

Thessaloniki says, "Were I really intent on trying to wrest secrets from you, that would probably be the best way to do so. Happily for both of us, I would much rather spend the time talking of other things."

Marlena grins a little over the lip of her glass. "I had the very same idea."

Next on the agenda is lunch with Aric. Slate, Nick, and Rosie end up going, to give a proper thank-you to the helpful Soldier of War. The drive up from Austin has been characteristically quiet, to say nothing of short, given Nick's propensity for treating the speed limit as a baseline figure. The War base at the Alamo is a little busier than usual, with recent developments in Mexico, but the angels are admitted with little hassle. War having no distinct chain of command, it takes a few minutes to find Aric's angelic "sponsor," but he finally does make himself known; a tall angel with smooth, black skin, introducing himself as Deke.

Shateishael paces in behind Nick, letting the better-spoken Ofanite do the talking. He grins quietly to himself, running his fingers through his now-unruly blonde mane. He'd enjoyed himself thoroughly on the drive down, wind whipping through his hair as he sang cheerfully with the radio that Nick always plays wonderfully loud for his old friend.

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "Hello, Deke, a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He introduces himself, Slate, and Rosenstern. He thanks the dark skinned angel for talking to them, for having Aric help them out before, and asks if they could have a chance to talk to the human for lunch or some other brief meeting.

Rosenstern remains quietly in the background, entering behind Slate. He's reasonably comfortable being here, talking with War's Tether's staff rather than just 'passing through.' And he's curious as to meeting the 'real' Aric. He wishes Tay could have made it here in some form, though the Kyrio seems very busy. He briefly wonders who the Tether's seneschal is.

Deke is a big man, tall and not especially thick, but broad-shouldered, somewhat Nubian in his composure. He rolls up the sleeves of his battered Army jacket. "Ah, you're the ones from before. I remember you. Yeah, go on back, he's at one of the tables here someplace. You got here on a lull. Good timing."

Shateishael nods amiably to Deke, and follows his friends that way. Rosenstern smiles, and nods gratefully to Deke. "Thank you!" he says, and heads back with Nick and Slate.

Thessaloniki thanks Deke and heads back to find Aric, smiling cheerfully, almost obviously someone's affable old uncle out to see the Alamo. He's got that attitude down pretty well by now. Shateishael paces along silently next to Nick. He grins quietly, wondering how folks see the pretty boy and the Viking, in relation to the affable uncle type. Hm... perhaps best not to ask... he grins again.

Aric is at a table in the back, sitting across from a dapper man in an extremely well tailored blue suit. Aric's wearing a Civil Air Service jacket that looks like it's seen better days, jeans, and his cowboy boots. As the angels move closer they can catch the tail of the conversation, "...but don't you think," asks the suit, "-that it's all relative?"

Rosenstern spots Aric fairly quickly -- they only went through one heck of a time with him being ridden by Taygeta, it'd be hard to not recognize him. Seeing Aric busy, he doesn't immediately charge forward exuberantly, but instead holds back at a discrete distance, idly wondering who the man might be -- and unable to keep from wondering what 'it's all relative' might mean, considering that Aric is a Soldier.

Shateishael pauses, crossing his arms and leaning against a nearby wall to wait, so the conversation can conclude. It sounds vaguely to him like what he heard the little Judge and Dominic discussing... best then to let them work it out first, he supposes. Besides... best to let the friendlier looking two introduce them first. Thessaloniki also heads in, letting Rosenstern ahead of him, smiling affably and following along. He looks curiously around the room as he waits for the conversation to finish off, or at least find a lull.

Aric shrugs and grins. "Sartre'd turn over in his grave if he heard that." He glances up, "Oh, hey, 'scuse me a sec here." He waves to the angels, "Howdy there. What can I do for you?"

Shateishael nods politely, but lets the others do the talking. Thessaloniki smiles and lets Rosenstern handle that one, introducing himself when the time seems appropriate. Rosenstern smiles warmly as Aric notices them. The mention of Sartre defuses any concern he might have -- a philosophical discussion isn't something to raise any alarms. "Aric? Hi... you probably don't recognize us. My name's Rosenstern, this is Nick, and Slate. We came by to thank you for being the, er, vessel for our Kyriotate friend about a month ago."

Aric shrugs, "Ain't nothin'. I volunteered. Y'all wanna have a seat?"

Shateishael rumbles, "We were wondering if we could treat you to lunch maybe. You want here?" Rosenstern nodnods to Slate, sheepish that he forgot that most basic reason they were there.

Aric grins. "Well, that's a surprise. Heh. Well, I can't turn down a free lunch, now. Hey Mickey, you mind if we pick this up later?" The suit shakes his head. "Not at all. I'll catch you the next time." Aric grins, rising, "Well then, let's talk." Shateishael grins quietly, stepping aside so folks can head out. He nods once, politely, to 'Mickey,' then paces out after his friends and Aric. Aric grins. "Lawyers. What do they know about Existentialism anyhow?"

Shateishael chuckles quietly, then waits until they're all seated at a restaurant of Aric's choice before he says, "Hope you didn't get any flack about working with us."

Aric grins around a mouthful of Mongolian grill, "Me? Heh, why would I? I wasn't awake for any of it."

Shateishael nods, "'Kay. Dunno if Tay ever told you thanks either, but... well, thanks." He happily chews his mouthful. It reminds him vaguely of a mix of his ancient Norse dinners and a medieval Japanese meal... interesting and different. He likes it.

Rosenstern smiles softly as he sits. "I don't think any of us have been, uh, ridden before, but it's seems to me that it's still a pretty brave thing to do in and of itself, to let that be done to you." His own selection from the Mongolian grill tends to me mostly vegetable, though there's a bit of beef in there. Somewhere.

The Soldier shrugs, "It's only the second time I ever let someone skin-ride, but I don't mind it. Kyriotates are usually pretty conscientious about keepin' us safe. He laughs, "Heh! Matter of fact, the first time, when I woke up, I was wearin' these boots."

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "Politics can be strange, y'know? Things got a little rushed at the end." He pokes the food on his plate with chopsticks, adding, "You were a huge help, too. We really appreciate it." He doesn't comment about this particular Kyrio's skill at keeping the host safe.

Shateishael glances at Rosie's bowl, then raises an eyebrow. He mumbles muffledly through his mouthful, "Dude, there's no meat in there! That's not a good meal... here, have some of mine." He tilts his bowl and lifts his chopsticks, about to drop in a bunch of lamb morsels.

Thessaloniki pokes Slate, "It's fine, Slate, let him be," and grins. He looks at Aric and asks casually, "What do you usually do?" in an attempt to distract him from his two companions for a moment.

Aric nods. "Well, I'm glad my body did y'all some good. An' it wasn't any kind of thing, like I said, I volunteered. Heh, the only complaint I got about Kyriotates is that I never get a shower while I'm out."

Shateishael gives Nick a slightly bemused glance, then looks back at Rosie and shrugs, swallowing. His small grin is teasing, "No wonder there's no meat on your bones, 'f you keep eating like that." He turns back to regard the Soldier and nods amusedly, "Showers sure feel good, even if you don't need 'em, yup."

Thessaloniki chuckles, "Could be worse." He makes a mental note to poke Tay to take better care of his hosts.

Shateishael adds curiously, "Were the boots new or something?"

Rosenstern blinks and laughs at the boots anecdote, then blinks to Slate as a couple of bits of lamb tumble into his bowl. "Hey, honest, there's meat in here..." he says in good humor. He digs around a bit, then comes up with a few morsels. "Well, okay, maybe not as much..." Shateishael grins at Rosie amiably, then turns his attention back to Aric.

Aric says, "Oh, I needed one, don't you worry, man." He shrugs, "New? I dunno. But I wasn't wearin' em when I started. Usually? Well, that all depends. Mostly I do what we call minion-huntin'... I track down the humans that work for the Other Side an' deal with 'em."

Shateishael huhs thoughtfully, "D'you like doing it? Do you ever... I dunno... have second thoughts? I mean, in some ways it's easy for us. Is it easy for you too, convictions-wise?"

Rosenstern nods quietly and lets out a breath, remaining silent at that. Not judgmental -- Aric's a Soldier, he does what he needs to and does it well, and Rosie has no right to say anything about that. Besides, after the Feasting Tables he isn't quite so insistently pacifist as he was. "How did you get started? I mean, being a Soldier and a minion-hunter. If it's not personal..." He nods at Slate's question as well.

Aric says, "I don't have doubts anymore. Yeah, I wish things were different sometimes, but hell, who doesn't? I've seen what those animals are like first-hand, and I got a good idea of what the place'll be like if we don't do our jobs right. Be damned if I let that happen." He grins, then hmms, "How I got my start? Well, if y'all don't mind a little back-story..."

Shateishael nods gravely at Aric's answer... then grins and nods. Rosenstern nods quietly at Aric's convictions, and also grins. "Sure, fire away!"

Aric says, "Well, way back when, I used to be a bounty hunter here in the city. Bail jumpers, you know?" Shateishael nods again, listening as he uses his chopsticks to neatly shovel food into his mouth. Rosenstern also nods, listening eagerly.

Aric says, "Yeah. So, I was grabbing skips for a couple of bond agents around here. Ain't bad work... it's excitin', and it does the public a good service. Saves the taxpayers a lotta money, did you know that?" He pauses to scarf down another big mouthful of beef.

Shateishael nods thoughtfully, making a mental note to himself to wander around Austin a bit. There are some gangs in the area, he thinks... maybe there's a Soldier or two around there? -and if there's not... maybe there should be? He'll have to find out how Soldiers come to be. Rosenstern digs around in his bowl, and blinks. "Really? Huh... I didn't know that at all, actually. That's good!" Thessaloniki settles in and listens curiously, nodding as Aric talks, silently encouraging him to go on.

Aric grins, "Oh yeah! By savin' them the cost o' trials, bail bondsmen save the public a few hundred thou every year." The Soldier continues, "So, I was trackin' down a skip way out on the outskirts of town; run-down residential place. Me an' three others are scopin' out the place. Turns out our jumper was playin' a little rough with his wife, or his girlfriend, whoever it was, and I'm lookin' in the window, I see him grab this big fuckin' steak knife. So, you know, I freak out."

Shateishael looks up suddenly, his eyes widening slightly as he listens. Thessaloniki frowns slightly, and asks quietly, "What happened next?" Rosenstern blinks, his eyes widening, and he's very quiet as he listens.

Aric rolls his eyes. "I did somethin' a little unprofessional. I call in the cavalry, and we go chargin' in. We ain't supposed to do that... but I figured he was gonna kill this woman. Rather invalidate the bond than risk havin' that on my conscience. So we get in there. There's blood all over the fuckin' place, and I can't tell where it all come from, or if the woman's still alive -- she's all passed out in his arms. This guy... some fat ass in a wifebeater that's so damn dirty it was yellow... is screamin' about blood an' hearts an' darkness an' all kindsa whatnot."

Shateishael's eyes narrow and he frowns, but remains silent so the Soldier can continue. Rosenstern can't stifle a shiver. Suddenly lunch doesn't seem to be at the forefront of his mind, but he listens raptly.

Aric says, "I raise my gun an' tell him to put the knife down now. I identify myself, bounty hunter an' all that, an' he just starts screamin' more gibberish at me. Right then the rest o' my crew comes in the back way, an' this guy, I guess, was lookin' for a distraction, so he throws this fuckin' steak knife at me. An' he hits me right in the chest."

Shateishael draws in his breath quietly, his eyes flicking almost automatically to Aric's chest. It's obviously still there and working fine... he looks back at the Soldier's face, still listening with great interest. Rosenstern blinks again -- the story has a reasonably good ending, if Aric's sitting there, talking about how he took a knife to the chest.

Aric nods, "Right, so, I shoot this guy. So does everyone else. An' he still manages to trample out over top o' me. Rest o' the boys dragged his ass down a block away. Anyway, I'm lyin' in the back of an ambulance when I wake up. An' there's an EMT sittin' over top of me, an' she's workin'... I can hear the sirens."

Shateishael nods and slowly starts eating again, although he's still watching Aric with fascination. Aric says, "So, I'm fadin' in an' out, and I'm all kinda warm and floatin', and I kinda forgot to worry about this hole in me an' the fact that I'm probably about to die." Shateishael shakes his head slowly... he still finds it amazing how courageous the human Soldiers are, taking on things that are often so much tougher and more dangerous.

Rosenstern nods quietly. He glances out of the corner of his eyes, seeing Slate eating again, and starts to again pick at his food, but he's not really able to do more than that. Thessaloniki continues eating slowly. As the Soldier lived, the story must have a happy ending. He follows with rapt attention.

The Soldier grins. "Then, the EMT... real knockout, I should add, 'cept she had eyes that'd freeze yer nuts. So she leans down to me, an' she puts her hand on my chest. An' she whispers, 'Not yet. You've done well in my eyes, Aric... and you will again.' When I wake up, I'm lyin' on my couch, at home, without my shirt or my shoes, and no hole in me."

Shateishael laughs! -then grins, shaking his head amusedly this time, "So the EMT was one of Michael's, eh?"

Aric says, "And there's a note by my phone. Tells me to come to the Alamo. So I come out to the place, and all these guys are standin' around waitin' for me." Thessaloniki continues listening. Shateishael nods interestedly. Rosenstern blinks. That jolts him out of his reverie. He wonders who the angel could have been, but he doesn't interrupt.

Aric says, "Deke-- you met Deke, big black dude, right? Deke explains to me that I'm real special, see, and that someone real important asked him personally to take good care o' me. I tell him fine, but I want some answers first." Shateishael grins, thinking that he'd have asked the same question, circumstances being the same. Aric grins. "He answered all my questions. Where the hole went, who the EMT was, what the fat-ass was and why he was able to poke a hole in me from twelve feet away. I liked the answers and agreed to hang around. I like my new job even more than the old one."

Rosenstern nods quietly, not blaming him one bit for wanting to know. Thessaloniki smiles, "You're happy now? That's very good."

Aric grins, "Happy? Oh, hell yes. I love my job. I still save the taxpayers money, but now I save some souls along the way."

Rosenstern smiles quietly and nods. "That's certainly good to hear, that you like what you're doing!" He has to grin at Aric's assessment.

Shateishael grins cheerfully at Aric, "Glad to hear it, dude. So... what exactly happens to make someone a Soldier? D'you know?"

Aric nods. "Well, there's a few things that can make a mortal change." Shateishael nods interestedly again, chewing busily as he listens. Aric says, "Normally, you develop that extra force, that extra somethin' that sets you apart, through trainin' and spiritual growth, as Deke puts it. That's how most Soldiers happen. There's also rumors that some folks're born that way... but they're extra rare and angels that find 'em keep pretty tight wraps on 'em. There's also one more way to do it."

Shateishael nods thoughtfully, then says, "How's that?"

Aric says, "The other way is for an Archangel to give it to you."

Shateishael blinks, "Whoa. The EMT called Michael down?!"

Rosenstern tilts his head to the side at the mention of another way. He's not at all familiar with Soldiers, though he's met a few in the past -- Aric's revelation makes him blink. "That... or the EMT was Michael," he says, remembering Aric's description of the EMT's eyes.

Thessaloniki says, "Or, did she simply heal you, and start you on the path to earning the force through training and growth?" Shateishael hms, glancing at Nick... he'd not thought of that. Rosenstern looks sheepish -- he's got that look down pat -- and nods, smiling embarrassedly.

Aric shakes his head. "Nah. Deke told me later that it was Zadkiel, an' that I was the luckiest bounty hunter on earth, to meet her like that."

Shateishael shakes his head slowly, this time impressed, "Yup... sounds like you were."

Thessaloniki smiles, "You probably were the luckiest, as well as chosen. I'm glad to hear it was so, too."

Shateishael hms thoughtfully again, then adds, "So that means for a Soldier to... to become, there has to be an archangel." He wipes his mouth, his bowl emptied, and sits back to consider. "Guess Soldiers are kinda hard to find, let alone create."

Aric nods. "Damn right. So I do my best to watch out for the other mortals... since if Protection wanted me alive, it had to be for a good reason. I make sure that the everyday folks who aren't in on the gig, they don't get hurt while we're out doin' our jobs. When I'm huntin' minions, I don't waste any time... so I can protect any potential victims from those animals."

Thessaloniki asks, "Are there many minions around?" Shateishael glances at Nick for his question, then looks interestedly at Aric again for his answer.

Rosenstern nods quietly, letting out a soft breath and smiling. Aric's undoubtedly not looking for his approval, but he certainly has Rosie's admiration for what he does. The War is dangerous, and he fully agrees with Mom that it has to end before humanity as a whole is a casualty, but until that day he finds himself glad that there are Soldiers like Aric out there, doing whatever they need to do.

Aric nods, "A few. They keep themselves pretty low profile, but just like skips, there are ways to root 'em out. We gotta make distinctions between the ones that are servin' demons consciously, and the ones that are just bein' manipulated. It's not always easy. Heh, of course, sometimes it is... last month we tracked down a sorcerer. Well, least that's what he called himself. Actually he just signed over his soul and was stealin' Essence with living sacrifices. We had to retreat when the guy's patron showed up, but we got the big guns lookin' for that guy now."

Shateishael looks curious, "Who was it?" Thessaloniki nibbles at the last of his big plate of stir-fry.

Aric says, "The patron? Oh, hell, I dunno. Balseraph, I think, maybe. Tall guy with gray temples. Snappy dresser."

Shateishael nods and has a sip of his drink. He doesn't think he knows that one... he grins quietly, "Got an off-subject question, myself... where'd a modern guy like you get a Old Norse name like Aric from?"

Aric grins, "Oh, uh, my parents're from Norway. Came over when I was little to be with relatives."

Thessaloniki grins at Slate's question, and the answer. Shateishael nods, then rumbles quietly, "Nice places to settle out thataways..." He sighs softly, his gaze a bit far away for a bit.

Aric says, "You from the old country?"

Thessaloniki chuckles, "You could say that about Slate, yes."

Rosenstern tilts his head to the side curiously, then shakes his head quietly. Sorcerers. Scheisse! You'd think they'd have learned after Faustus. But no, despite books, plays, movies about him, some mortals still think they can get one up on Hell. Oh, right, I forgot. Faust actually makes it into heaven in one version of the story. Sigh. He looks over to Slate, and can't help grinning at the question. Then it's hard for him to not laugh out loud at Aric's question.

Shateishael blinks, focusing on Aric, then grins quietly and rumbles something in a guttural tongue. Aric grins. "Heh. Answers my question."

Thessaloniki smiles and says to Aric, "Slate spent a very long time in the Old Country, before there was a new one, yes. If you had questions about your heritage, I expect he'd be a good person to ask." Shateishael smiles quietly, his hands folded in his lap, remembering a little longingly the feel of a ship's deck surging under his feet and cold sea spray in his face. He sighs almost imperceptibly.

Aric smiles, "My grandparents don't let me forget. Heh. Not that I would. But I wouldn't give this country up for nothin', either. I like it here. 'S my home."

Shateishael nods, "Can understand that, yup. Spent a good chunk of time riding in these areas too." He murmurs quietly, "I should go see if my old lead mare's still around... wonder if she still remembers me..."

Aric grins. "Heh. Wouldn't surprise me. Stranger things happen every day."

Shateishael grins, shaking his head to snap himself out of the past, "Eh well... if you're ever in the Austin area, you be sure to stop by Nick's Ranch, okay? He throws a mean party!"

Aric grins. "I'll remember that. So... lemme get the tip?"

Thessaloniki smiles and says, "I've got it, thanks, Aric. It's the least we can do." He make sure Aric has his card, and adds, "Come by or call. Often interesting folks come by." He also reminds the Soldier of his offer to remove age.

It's on the drive back to Austin that Nick and Slate update Rosie on the new Tether. Nick is, of course, in speeding bliss, one elbow out the window and the other hand resting lightly on the steering wheel. Slate's leaned his head enough so he can talk to Rosie, seated between them on the bench seat of the huge old Caddy humming down the highway, without shouting in the wind roar.

Shateishael concludes, "So that's where he is now... in the Vapulan Tether, dominating some human."

Rosenstern takes the news... less than well. That Vilson emerged from Trauma so quickly is shock enough. He's not looking forward to Vilson getting revenge upon the people who took him out the last time. That there's a Tether of Technology forming is even worse. But he is an Intercessionist; what bothers him the most is pretty obvious.

He's quiet for a few moments, then closes his eyes and sighs softly. "Scheisse," he murmurs. "Why of all beings to ride, a human? Walking a vessel into a Tether; isn't that... endangering one's host?" He shakes his head. "Just... gah! I don't know what to think. He's ridden humans before, but I'd feel so much better if he can get his host out of there." He adds, "And I'm sure his host would, too." He falls into silent worry for a few moments before starting to mentally sketch out plans. There's got to be a protest group in Austin which would object to what's going on at that place; nothing like a good, old-fashioned picket to interrupt a research firm's daily work. "Blast... it's a Vapulan Tether, they practically thrive on doing bad things to mortals..." And angels, too, for that matter, he thinks.

Thessaloniki says, "Well, Rosie, I sure hope he knows what he's doing. Presumably they've got kids coming and going all the time, and he'll be able to get his host out fine. At this point, there's not much I can do about it."

Shateishael rumbles gently, "Rosie... it's not your problem. It's Tay's. He's made his own bed -- now he has to lie in it. Nick and I are staying out of it. We're tired of being hands and feet for no thanks or credit."

Rosenstern fidgets just a little, sighing. "I know, Slate, but he's made it with a mortal in it with him..." But he falls silent, not arguing the point, just trying to come up with something -- something that keeps the humans who don't know any better out of this. First thing, try to get Tay to get his host out of there. Second... that protest group is a good idea, it might keep more people from going in there. Third... wait, wait, Rosie. This is already too big for one angel. This is a damned Tether, or have you forgotten?

Shateishael smiles ruefully, watching the play of emotion across the smaller angel's face, and rumbles quietly, "Rosie... let Tay get out first before you decide to take on an entire Tether, neh? Myself, I'm going to wait until he either quits on this mission, or asks for help. I'll help if he officially has someone else leading -- so we can be sure credit and thanks go to those that deserve it. And remember... if you're going to try causing a demonic Tether trouble, you'll need to keep your head low. This is the Truce city, after all."

Rosenstern sighs and rubs his eyes. "You're right, Slate. I just... get worried when mortals who don't know any better get dragged into the war... I'll wait until I see Tay. Er, one of his vessels. Oh... speaking of keeping heads low... here's the newspaper article that Tomas showed me, which I told you about on the phone..." He pulls the crumpled piece of newsprint from his pocket.

Shateishael takes it carefully between his fingers so it's not blown out the window, and reads it aloud to everyone... then blinks. "Whoa. Okay, this puts an entirely different spin on things!" He hands the clipping back to Rosie as he adds, "What do y'all think?"

Rosenstern says, "I don't know... it might be Mulgrew, but what he said doesn't sound like what Mulgrew was spouting that night. Do either of you know anything about the priest? Is he controversial in any way, or is he completely unremarkable?"

Shateishael shakes his head, "Dunno about the priest, but I don't think this is Mulgrew. Didn't you say Mulgrew was in black, was real pale, and spouted comic book nonsense? Unless he's dyed his hair and changed his MO, this isn't him." He pauses, thinking, then says slowly, "Know what I think it is? I think it's a Malachite... maybe of the Sword. That absolute assurance -- to attempt an assassination in public, of a priest! Only a Virtue would be that cocky." He frowns, adding slowly, "Which means... the priest must be... a... whoa. It'd take real chutzpah for a demon to masquerade as a Catholic priest!"

Thessaloniki considers for a while, then says, "I don't know him, Rosie. It sounds more coherent than Mulgrew did." He listens to Slate's suggestion and says, "Maybe. If it's an angel. A demon might be that crazy, especially if they didn't have anything to lose or were covering something else. Don't know yet."

Shateishael shakes his head thoughtfully at Nick's commentary, "Maybe... but why didn't any local angels kill the attempted assassin right away? I can't imagine there aren't angels of the Sword or of Judgement around... Catholicism is their lords' pet religion, after all."

Thessaloniki can only shrug and say, "I don't know, Slate. Why didn't they finish off the demon if that were the case?"

Shateishael shakes his head slowly again, "Dunno, Nick... maybe mortals got in the way? I can see folks defending a priest they cared about like that."

Rosenstern blinks, looking to Shateishael. "Cocky, yes, but... I don't know, you'd think that an angel, even a Virtue, if he had to take out a priest for whatever reason, would do it in a way that doesn't try to make people think that there's so much evil in the world that priests can be killed?" He bites his lip and nods, "You're right, it doesn't sound like Mulgrew at that, I guess. And if people got in the way an angel wouldn't want to kill them as well, if the priest was a demon..."

Thessaloniki asks, "And, would a Virtue miss?"

Shateishael grins at Nick, "You tell me -- you saw Sue!"

Thessaloniki grins, "I can't say. Until I know more, all I can conclude is I don't know."

Shateishael muses quietly, "Hm... 'if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the Sword in vain'... 'a revenger to execute wrath upon him that is evil.' Interesting... but yeah, we'd need more info to be able to say anything for sure."

Rosenstern taps the paper. "There's something about the sermon this Sunday. Maybe that has something to do with it? I know that back when I was younger priests would get into serious trouble for some of the things they said in sermons."

Shateishael shakes his head at Rosie, "Dunno, dude. Lubbock's, uh... maybe 500 miles away though."

Rosenstern grimaces. "A bit too far to casually check it out. And way far out of the Truce City." Shateishael nods quietly.

Thessaloniki says, "That only makes it more confusing, really. If it was because of something inciting in the sermon, it might be an angry mortal." He concurs, "It is a little ways out yeah. I expect the locals can take care of it. If they need help, we'll hear about it one way or another."

The Ranch comes up slowly in the distance. The weather's finally turned, and it's a bright, clear afternoon. Sitting out in the lot, crouching like a big, black enamel scorpion, is Sax's bike, distinguished by the little lightning bolt on one fender in place of a trademark. As the group rolls into the drive, Sax is sitting on the stoop, next to the door, passed out as if he was taking a siesta.

Rosenstern perks up and smiles as he sees the Cherub. "Hey, Sax is back!"

Shateishael grins at Sax, then glances at Nick, "Guess we need an emergency key for when Tay-Tom can't open the door."

Thessaloniki slows to a halt and lets the other two out, commenting, "Funny, I thought I gave him keys. Go say hello to him while I put the car away."

Shateishael calls out to Sax, "Hey, dude, how was Mexico?" He's not stupid enough to walk up next to any sleeping warrior -- he'll wake Sax at a distance. Rosenstern slips out of the car, waving cheerfully to Sax if he wakes up.

Thessaloniki lets Slate and Rosie get out, and pulls the car into the garage, the door opening by remote and then closing behind him. It doesn't take long for him to come wandering out, to collect with the others on the porch. He says, "Hey, Sax! Nice to see you again."

Sax is wearing the same gaudy shirt he left in, although the bright pastel irises are smeared with mud and maybe blood. He's snoring quite loudly, but sits bolt upright when his name is called, "Heyyobrowhassup- oh! Hey! Hey, sorry about that..." He stands up slowly, dusting himself off, "Hey. Thought I'd admire the weather while there was nobody home... guess I dozed off. I must be getting too human, I'm developing a sleep habit."

Shateishael grins, slapping Sax' shoulder lightly as he unlocks the door, "C'mon in and develop a shower habit too."

Sax' 'dusting off' does create a small dust cloud, but doesn't really clean him up any. He's filthy. "That's a great idea." Shateishael snorts amusedly and steers Sax for the laundry room first.

Thessaloniki chuckles, "It's a pleasant way to pass the time on a warm afternoon like this. Want something cold?"

Rosenstern smiles, though it's a bit muted as he sees the marks on Sax's shirt. "Welcome back! I'm glad to see you came back okay? How, er, did things go?"

A sparrow cheeps at the returning angels, and flies off. A crow returns a few moments later. "How was the trip?"

Sax shrugs, answering the crow, "Eh. It was about like you expect a combat mission in Mexico to be. Hot, dirty and nasty."

Rosenstern nods, not having ever really been in such, but glad to see that he made it through all right. Taygeta nods. "No surprise. Successful?"

Thessaloniki meanders in and rummages in the fridge, humming cheerfully. He calls, "Want a beer, or something, Rosie?"

Shateishael loads up the washer with Sax' clothing, unless the angel objects. As he does so, he rumbles, "Where's Merwyn? Elsewhere? Beer for me, please, Nick -- and another for Sax?"

Rosenstern says, "Nothing for me, Nick; thank you, though!"

Sax nods. "Yeah, sorta. When it looked like the Hellforce offensive was turning, they changed tactics on us; went from a straight push to hit and run raiding tactics. So they got away with some materiel and acceptable losses, but we kept 'em out of the cities. I'd call it a draw."

Taygeta caws. "Could be worse. Welcome back."

Thessaloniki comes out and gives Sax and Slate beers, then settles with one of his own, saying, "Well, that seems to be how things run lately."

Sax says, "Thanks. Merwyn? Actually, uh... I was gonna ask if you'd seen him. I left him in Lubbock, said he was gonna start looking for a new quest there." Shateishael nods agreement and thanks to Nick, then has a long slug of his beer -- which he almost spits out all over Sax! Sax uhs, "Did, uh, I say somethin' outta turn?"

Shateishael gasps, wiping his mouth, then says in alarm, "Tell me please he doesn't ordinarily wear a gray trench, or use a pistol?!"

Rosenstern doesn't quietly fidget, but he is relieved that it worked out well enough. "Yes, welcome back, Sax, it's-" He stops short and blinks. Slowly. His jaw actually drops.

Thessaloniki says, "Rosie... show him the article."

Shateishael takes a deep breath, then rumbles, "Fuck. Tall, long dark hair." Thessaloniki manages to set his beer down before he drops it. Rosenstern nods to Nick, digging in his vest for the newsprint, and quickly hands it over to Sax, worriedly.

Sax says, "A pistol? Well, I know he can use one, but they trained him a sniper... he used a rifle the last time I saw him shoot."

Taygeta manages to have a coughing fit with a crow as he sips a bit of water from the cat's dish. "That's... an unpleasant surprise."

Sax blinks at the newsprint, "Holy shit. Uh... fuck. Man, Merwyn couldn't... fuck. If that's him, I sure hope he knows what he's doing, takin' a shot at a Catholic priest like that. Laurence'll shit a brick."

Rosenstern murmurs unhelpfully, "The article doesn't say if he used a pistol or not..."

Taygeta says, "Unless it's not a real priest? What's the chance of that?"

Rosenstern looks to Nick and Slate. "Did they say on the radio...?" His voice is quiet, and can't hide nervousness. Faith... you have to have faith that Merwyn knows what he's doing... Oh, Adonai, Merwyn wouldn't just go off like this! He's a knight! Well, in all but actual name. He must know something we don't.

Shateishael sighs, "Okay, let's not panic. First, let Sax get cleaned up. Second, does anyone know Merwyn's cell number? He did get one, didn't he? And third, Tay, you still in MediLabs or no?"

Thessaloniki says, "Only if Merwyn's wrong, Sax," and sips his beer again. He shakes his head, "He's got balls, though," then adds, "Slate, if he needs help he'll call, don't you think?"

Sax thinks about it. "Merwyn never took risks he didn't calculate... I know that guy, he's about as close to a knight in shining armor as you'll get these days. I have to believe he's got a good reason. It's real possible he found out somethin' nasty about this Meade guy."

Shateishael nods to Nick, "Yeah, but it's good to know, just in case." He nudges Rosie, "C'mon, let's go sit down in the living room. Sax, we'll wait for you to clean up." He pulls out his cell to check and see if he entered Merwyn's number. Satisfied he has, he puts it away, and flops out across the long-suffering armchair to relax until Sax returns.

Sax nods. "Yeah. Shit, man, so much for my day off." He wanders off to hose the Rio Grande off of himself.

Thessaloniki encourages, "Yes! A nice hot shower, some clean clothes, you'll feel better, and this'll probably wait until you're done."

Rosenstern gulps, and nods a bit. "Right... right..." He sighs and lets out a breath, rubbing his eyes. I guess I just hate not knowing. Speaking of which... He perks up a little, looking over to the crow at Slate's question.

At MediLabs, Jake and Dan have been playing a fight game pretty much nonstop. Their game machine also plays DVDs, and they've been watching some movies to pass the time. Kyra looks like she's getting steadily paler with every needle-stick, and Tay's starting to think the PAs are enjoying it. Dan and Jake let Tay's vessel in on the game gladly if he wants.

Taygeta nods. "Yeah, I'm still riding that fellow. He was heading in to sign up for the testing, and so far it looks nasty but not fatal. If something really bad turns up, I'll try to break them all out -- there's four of us right now -- and in any event, I'll heal up the fellow I'm riding before I leave after the test is over."

Shateishael winces slightly at the news, then just sighs gustily and goes back to moodily drinking his beer until Sax returns. Taygeta says, "As far as the Tether goes... it looks like they've been forting up there for some time. I'm thinking Vapula set the MediLab up on the site when they noticed that 'anomaly,' and when it coalesced to a Tether they were all set to grab it." Shateishael eyes the crow and says nothing.

Sax comes back looking much better for wear, wearing a pair of many-pocketed khaki shorts and his battered Adidas sneakers. His torso is a roadmap of complicated tattoos. "'S this about a Tether?"

Shateishael shakes his head in deep disgust, "Later. Let's take one emergency at a time."

Rosenstern makes a faint, choking sound. "You can't... you can't get them out of there any sooner? I mean... it's... it's Vapula..." He doesn't even have the wherewithal to look over at Sax as the man enters.

Shateishael says, "Anyway. Okay... so this could well be Merwyn, I'm thinking. If he's had training with a sniper rifle, but got stuck close in, that would account for why he missed. It'd also account for the Scriptures as he left..." he grins amusedly, "-and feeling sure enough of himself to stop and quote Scriptures after an assassination attempt!"

Taygeta says, "And it's a Tether. If I showed myself in there, my Vessel'd be toast, and probably the other humans as well. Subjects have been going in and out all week before I Borrowed one, so they should get out reasonably okay."

Thessaloniki sips his beer, then says, "New Tether for Technology in Austin. Formed a little over a week ago." He gives Tay a look, then looks at Sax and adds, "We didn't find out until after the fact."

Sax raises his eyebrows and mms. "Well, that's a bitch, ain't it?"

Shateishael growls, "Fuckin' yeah."

Sax folds his arms, "So, um, lemme ask a question here. Unless y'all are collecting site data in preparation to burn the fucker down, why did you walk a mortal into it?" Shateishael looks pointedly at the crow. Sax adds, "Keepin' in mind that I'm in favor of the 'burn the fucker down' approach, but I am kinda curious."

Shateishael growls, "We all are, Sax. There's a fuckin' reason we've all stayed strictly away from this mission -- it's Tay's." He's still glaring at the crow.

Rosenstern visibly fidgets, and with some effort doesn't press the Kyriotate for more information. I'm going to be kicking myself if something goes wrong there. At least they're all okay so far. He takes in a deep breath, looking to Slate. "If... if so, then Meade could be, uh, just as easily a human, but a Soldier of Hell, considering he's due to be promoted to bishop, which won't make the Sword very hap... py..." His voice just kind of trails off at the sudden -- no, rather, the increasing tension in the room. Though he has to admit, for not the first time but one of the few times, he's well in favor of blowing someplace to Hell (and preferably not 'Hell and back') so long as the mortals in and around it don't go with it.

Thessaloniki says, "Honestly, Sax, I don't think I'd have been really for it, if I'd have known before it happened. However, Tay's pretty much taking care of this one on his own. He started by not telling us about it until after it had become a full-fledged Tether, and continues by risking mortals." He nods and says, "At the moment it's not my problem. I'm glad to know it's a Tether, so I can stay away. I'm curious if that's generally well known to the rest of the angelic community?"

Sax says, "Is it outside the city limits?"

Taygeta says, "Got it in one, basically. Got a note from Jean that said, basically, deal with it -- so I went in with one of the mortals who've been responding to their testing adverts to see how tight they'd locked it down." The crow looks guilty. "Guys, I'm sorry. I've been taking you for granted and not saying thanks nearly enough, and I didn't pass this one on nearly as quick as I should have. I'm not asking you to help me on this one."

Shateishael continues to stare stonily at the crow. Sax hms, "Okay, lookahere, Tay."

Taygeta looks away from the Davidian's glare and turns back to Sax. "Yes, it's outside Austin, though not far."

Sax says, "That's fine. Listen up. I'm tellin' you this as a Vassal. It ain't my job to be worryin' about this, but the 'in Service to Lightning' part of my title makes it my problem now. You better find a real good way to handle this, because J will be getting a fitness report. That's all I got to say about that."

Taygeta just nods. Shateishael glances at Sax thoughtfully... then goes back to his beer. He'll bring up the issue of Merwyn once Sax is finished and seated. Sax sits down and shakes his head. "Okay, now that I said that, I expect y'all are wonderin' what the hell Merwyn is thinking."

Rosenstern swallows a little audibly, managing to get his mind away from MediLabs (and the humans there, and likely a PO'd Vapula and Vilson), and nods his head quietly at Sax's question. Thessaloniki grins and guesses, "Kill the priest?"

Shateishael grins quietly at Sax. "Yup."

Taygeta says, "Got that right."

Shateishael grins at Nick, then rumbles thoughtfully, "Merwyn's no fool. What can Ofanites tell about people that no other angel can, Nick? There has to be something about that priest that triggered this action on his part."

Sax says, "Yeah, I think 'cap the priest' is probably high on his agenda. The why is what I wanna know. He wouldn't just try and gank a human for no reason. Criminy, he spent three decades trying to save some mortals." Shateishael nods unsmilingly to Sax at that. Sax licks his canines absently. "He must have found something out really nasty about this guy."

Rosenstern says, "He apparently didn't have to do too much digging, since it wasn't long after he arrived at Lubbock that this happened."

Thessaloniki says, "I dunno, Slate. Nothing that I can really think of. He might have found all sorts of things out on his own, or been tipped off to it. I presume he's got a good reason."

Shateishael nods to Sax, "My initial thought was it was a Malachite gunning for a demon passing as a priest."

Sax nods. "It's possible that's what happened... he's a Sword, he'd take a Malakite at his word. Maybe someone's convinced him that the guy's evil. Maybe we oughta do some legwork on this Meade guy."

Shateishael frowns thoughtfully at Nick... then stares at his beer bottle for a while. Finally he looks back at Sax, "You know of any unusual attunements or anything he might have? Hm... if he heard it from a Virtue, why wouldn't the Virtue be trying to gank the guy too, though?"

Thessaloniki says, "Why don't we just call him and ask?"

Sax says, "That's a good question. Yeah, maybe we oughta just call him and see if he answers his phone."

Shateishael grins at Nick, mutters, "Duh!" as he pulls his cell out, and uses it to dial the number on Nick's speakerphone.

Rosenstern says, "The Virtue could be pursuing a demon on the run... but, yeah, maybe we should call him... though, wait... arrgh... if he needed help he'd ask us, and if not he's in the middle of doing Heaven's work... but at the very least, finding out more about Meade would be a good idea. There's some reason he's gunning after a bishop-to-be..."

Shateishael has a sip of his beer, then grins at Rosie and rumbles, "Y'know, dude, you worry too much." He listens to the ringing.

Taygeta says, "If he's sneaking around he'll have turned it off, Rose. Shouldn't be a problem."

The phone rings several times. On the seventh ring, there's a click. A voice whispers, "Yes?" Sax stands up, "Merwyn, this is Saxon. What the fuck are you doin', man, Laurence is gonna shit a claymore, sideways." Shateishael coughs! -then grins and lets Sax do the talking. Thessaloniki grins at Sax, but remains quiet. It sounds like a concise summation of the situation to him.

Rosenstern looks a bit quirkily to Slate, albeit smiling quietly. He's about to reply when he hears the (whispered) answer. Whispered? Oh, damn... we got him at the proverbial really bad time! Taygeta blinks. Oh, yeah, now there's subtle.

Merwyn coughs quietly. "Yes, I know, things have not gone according to plan... you must believe me, Saxon, Father Meade is a demon. There is a Malakite here; he has sworn to me that the priest is a Balseraph."

Shateishael glances at Sax, hoping he'll ask the obvious question. Rosenstern lets a breath out and looks to Slate. Good call, Shateishael. Thessaloniki looks at the phone, listening quietly, and lets Sax talk.

Sax takes a breath, "Okay, that's great, 'wyn, but why'd you take a shot at him in public, man?!" Merwyn pauses. "I am not a murderer, Saxon." Sax slaps his forehead, "News flash, Galahad, you tried to shoot a Catholic priest in the head! Yes you are!"

Taygeta cocks his head at Slate, and nods. "What you thought..." Shateishael thinks a bit, then rises quietly and pulls out a pen and piece of paper. In the flowing and elegant script that is the only handwriting he knows for English, he writes, Is he sure it's a true Malachite, and what happened to it? Why didn't the Malakite take care of the demon? He holds it up for Sax to see.

Sax nods, thumbs-up. "Okay, let's try this again. Merwyn, are you certain this is a real Malakite, and not someone trying to take you for a ride? Where's the Malakite? Why didn't he try to take on the demon?" Shateishael sits quietly, listening attentively. He's left the pen and paper where others can get to them also, if they so wish.

Merwyn replies, "I would not accept his word until he allowed me to see him Celestially. He can speak the Angelic tongue, Saxon; it is a Malakite, I have no doubt. He has not been able to attack the demon because his Vessel is damaged. The fingers of one hand are broken."

Rosenstern listens to all this with some tension within him. This is so far out of his league, so far out of the purview of Flowers, that it's beyond funny. Still... Providence put him in this place, in this time, to hear all this, brought him and the others in contact with Merwyn, possibly for this very reason. He listens attentively and quietly, trying to focus all his thoughts on this.

Shateishael raises an eyebrow. He can't imagine that stopping one of the crazy-pure Virtues... is there something else wrong with the vessel also, perhaps? He hastily writes and holds up for Sax, Song of Healing?!

Sax shakes his head, mouthing, Doesn't have it. Merwyn continues, "I agreed to take the shot for him; in return he would drive the getaway vehicle with his undamaged hand. I had offered to simply lend him my weapon but he says that he cannot shoot left-handed. It seemed an odd thing for a Virtue to say, I know..." There's a pause as someone in the background says something unintelligible, and Merwyn softly replying, "I understand, I meant no offense..." He returns to the receiver, saying, "We are in hiding at the moment. We will try again after the... 'heat,' as the mortals put it, has died down."

Shateishael raises the other eyebrow... he's starting to want to talk to this Virtue. Seriously. He sighs, then murmurs softly to the others, "You think our Superiors'll mind if we uh... take a week or so off, go see what's up?" Thessaloniki gives Slate an odd look, and frowns slightly at this turn. He doesn't try to talk now.

Sax folds his arms. "I dunno if this is a good idea, bro." Merwyn says, "You know that I do not miss, Saxon. Something protected this Father Meade. If he is made Bishop, he may be beyond our reach." Sax pinches the bridge of his nose.

Rosenstern fidgets a little, and shakes his head, murmuring, "Mom might wonder what in the world got into my head, but... maybe not, no." Shateishael settles back in the chair, quietly sipping his beer and thinking.

Sax says, "Okay, look, Merwyn, I got Nick and Slate and the others here. We'll call you back, okay? And if we don't ID ourselves as such when your phone rings next, get the fuck gone, okay?" Merwyn's voice changes slightly as he nods. "Very well, Saxon. I will wait to hear from you."

Rosenstern does some mental calculations. It's Friday afternoon -- he looks outside, seeing the sky growing dim -- LATE Friday afternoon. Meade is making his sermon on Sunday. Later this month he'll be made a bishop. What is it with Meade, anyway? Aside from the blasphemy of a demon portraying a priest. But I forget which convocation stated that the purity of the celebrant is not an issue in a service... oh, wait, that was Protestant. I think. Oh, what does it matter right now! In short, they have a day, perhaps, to get to Lubbock. Which would leave them only a few hours to do... whatever needs doing.

Sax takes a breath. "Okay, bro. Keep your head screwed on until then." The phone clicks. "If it ain't too late for that," he mutters.

Taygeta clicks his beak, but says nothing while the phone is open. When Sax signs off, he says, "I've never yet met a Malakite who wouldn't be willing -- and able -- to pull a trigger with a broken finger. Something weird's going on here."

Thessaloniki nods, "Nor would they likely threaten someone for not believing such a claim, would they? That bothers me a bit."

Shateishael gives Sax a grim look, then rumbles, "Gotta agree with Tay here, guys. Something weird goin' on."

Thessaloniki asks, "Is this something that we should try and get help with? Would there be others who are better equipped to handle this?" Shateishael glances at Nick, then looks at Sax, as the person most likely to be able to answer that question.

Sax scratches his head. "Merwyn's a pro... he wouldn't do something like this if he wasn't sure of it. Maybe he's just underestimating the danger of fucking with religion in rural America." He takes a breath. "Well, I gotta go down there. I think if we're gonna get involved, the first thing we should do is get the skinny on this Father Meade."

Thessaloniki says, "Can we verify that he's a demon or no somehow, ourselves?"

Shateishael rumbles, "Up there, actually. It's off to the northwest of us... 'bout 500 miles, like I told Rosie earlier." He glances at Nick and nods quietly, "Think I could, if I could speak to him -- and he answered."

Rosenstern blinks to Sax, then gets it: Lubbock is probably anything but a metropolis. "Show ourselves to him celestially and see if he runs screaming bloody murder, or not?" He sighs, "Sorry, I know that's hardly helpful..."

Thessaloniki hmms, then says, "Okay." He asks, "We know anybody in Judgement who might know someone who'd be responsible for protecting someone like that?"

Sax hms. "Not sure. I can't... well, wait. Slate, you might be able to. Don't y'all Seraphs notice when one of those fuckers lies to you?"

Shateishael grins dryly at Nick, "You're the expert on Judgement here, guy," then turns to Sax and nods, "Can, yeah... although I've heard there are demonic songs that can hide one's demonic nature as human. Be willing to give it my best shot though."

Thessaloniki snorts, "Yeah, that's true. And, if I phoned and said I needed help, they'd probably come, too. The question becomes, would that help?" He mutters something about "truck bomb" to himself. Shateishael coughs once, still grinning.

Sax smirks, "You sure you aren't a Virtue?" Rosenstern blinks, half in shock only because he hadn't expected that, but knowing by now that vehicles involve some of -- most of Nick's plans.

Thessaloniki hehs, then says, "No, no. If I were, I doubt I'd have made a date with a demon, you know? I merely have an appreciation for the mobility, applicability, and brute force that weapon offers." Shateishael snickers quietly.

Shateishael grins cheerfully at his old friend... then considers. Finally he looks up thoughtfully, "Guys... won't there be a ton of Swords and Judges there -- it's a Catholic priest got shot at, after all!"

Sax says, "Well, if there weren't before, there oughta be now." He grins and nods to Nick. "Okay, right on."

Thessaloniki adds, "Availability, too, now that I think of it. Feed store and a gas station."

Taygeta says, "You want me to ask if Jean has heard any scuttlebutt about it?"

Shateishael says, "No." He pauses, then says to the crow, "You gonna be able to handle being split up all over the map?"

Taygeta-crow shrugs. "Distance isn't the problem. I can't abandon Derek, though, so I won't be able to handle more than one other human or two animal Vessels there."

Thessaloniki says, "If there's Swords and Judges there, would just notifying them, 'Seriously suspect this person is Balseraph, please verify and take care of this' be enough? They must have Seraphs handy, and probably Virtues. It's Laurence and Dominic, after all. They have those types around."

Rosenstern bites his lip, then looks around. "We... well, one of us could go to Judgement's people in the DPS in town and let them know. I... er, I don't mind doing that..." Shateishael thinks a bit... then looks at Sax again, since he just doesn't know the answer to Nick's question.

Sax says, "Possibly. It's a good idea. I dunno what the situation's like up there, though; I only passed through in the middle of the night. If nothing else we could just heads-up Judgement and tell 'em there's something shitty in Lubbock."

Thessaloniki says, "Let me call Trent; he'll know how to best proceed, both from the mortal angle, and from the Sword."

Rosenstern lets out a breath, and nods to Nick. "Good idea."

Sax nods. "That's cool."

Thessaloniki will flip through is beat up little address book, and dial Trent on the phone with the speakerphone, although he's on the handset so the others can talk, at least until he gets the officer. Trent picks up on the first ring; he's always punctual. "Trent here, go ahead."

Thessaloniki says, "Hello, Trent, this is Thessaloniki. We met the other day a couple of times." He flicks the phone to speaker, then says, "I'm here with other angels: Slate, Sax, Taygeta, and Rosenstern. We were wondering if you'd heard anything about what's going on out in Lubbock, about somebody shooting at Father Meade?"

Trent says, "Yeah, I heard about that. Afraid it's outside my jurisdiction, or I'd be right on top of it. Why do you ask?"

Thessaloniki says, "Well, we got word from someone we know up there that the shooting was arranged by a Virtue, because he's convinced that the Father is a Balseraph. There was a thing or two that made us think this a little odd, though. However, we also thought if someone was shooting at a priest, maybe the Sword or Judgement had someone out there looking after him, and could check that out one way or another. Since I'm just a Creationer and nobody tells me anything like that, it occurred to me that you might know, or be able to find out."

Shateishael grins at Nick's self-effacingness. Trent pauses. "Ooh. Is that so." He sucks on his teeth a moment. "Well, sorry to say I don't know that the Sword has anyone in place in Lubbock, as our forces are concentrated to the south as a garrison against the Mexico situation. Uh... look, my advice to your friend there is toss it up to his Superior; that sounds pretty serious."

Taygeta caws. "A distraction? But by Meade, or by the mysterious Malakite?" Shateishael puts a hand around the crow's beak, but also gently scritches the back of its neck, where it feels best to corvids, in case Tay jumps out and leaves a panicky crow there.

Trent says, "As much as I wish we could, we can't watch over every mortal that does good on earth. Believe me, Nick, if we knew how... anyway, yeah. Pass it up and get clearer orders, that's always been my policy in situations like that."

Thessaloniki says, "I don't know, Trent. I don't know the Malakim myself, so I can't say. Maybe he doesn't want to ask for help. And the person who called me may not be able to... the Virtue in question seemed rather defensive in the few words I overheard on the 'phone. Do you have a way you could get word out? My Superior is... busy." You can hear the grin in his voice at the last.

Rosenstern grins softly at Nick's statement. Trent says, "Well, if your friend is with The Sword, I could put a call in... I can probably get word to Judgement from here without too much trouble too. Who's your friend working for, I'll do what I can."

Shateishael lets go of the crow if it doesn't struggle, and pulls pen and paper over. He writes, then holds up to Nick, Let's go take care of it. We're the force on the ground. Thessaloniki looks at Slate's message, then says to the 'phone, "Okay, Trent. I'm not sure exactly who would be best to call. I think I'll go on out there and sniff around a little, and see if I can figure out who best to reach. I'll let you know if you can reach someone, okay?"

Shateishael nods and puts the paper down, going back to just listening. Trent says, "I'm always available, Nick; if I can do anything to help you, you let me know." Shateishael grins. He respects the Sword policeman's sense of duty, even if he doesn't quite understand Swordies in general.

Thessaloniki smiles at the phone and says, "I sure will, Trent. Keep up the good work, and know that we appreciate knowing you're there. I'll let you know what happens. Take care." He ends the call.

Sax says, "Man never takes a break, does he?"

Taygeta doesn't fuss when Slate shuts his beak, and listens to the rest of the call. "Not that I've noticed."

Thessaloniki sighs, then says, "Either we simply cry for help to a Superior, or we go and do it ourselves." He looks up and says, "Who's for a road trip?"

Shateishael waits until the phone's hung up to say quietly, "Okay... so they're stretched too thin. I know what my Superior would say... he'd say fix it, he trusts me. So... I gotta go." He looks around, "Anyone else wanna come along?"

Rosenstern purses his lips a bit. "Well... at least we don't have much to pack. When do we go?"

Sax says, "Ain't a matter of 'if', bro, I have to go. Merwyn's bailed me out before, I gotta return the favor."

Rosenstern nods to Slate. "Mom would say the same thing, more or less. Find out what's going on, and do what needs to be done for Flowers."

Taygeta says, "I'll do what I can. I owe you, and your judgement's better than mine at the moment."

Shateishael grins at Rosie and Sax, looking pleased, then glances towards Nick, to see his answer to Rosie's question. Thessaloniki says, "All right then. We'll take the Caddy; it'll do a hundred and twenty fully loaded without a worry, and the trunk sleeps six. Let's figure out what we need, and get on the road." He stands up and wanders off, thinking.

Sax says, "I'll get my guns."

Shateishael glances at Nick, then says to Sax, "Dude, can you give Rosie pointers on shooting, on the way down?"

Sax says, "Be my pleasure, bro, but... uh, what's a Mercurian need with a gun?"

Rosenstern says, "The trunk?!"

Thessaloniki laughs, then says, "Figure of speech, Rosie. It's just huge! We'll get a hotel, or simply not worry about it. Better yet, we'll take the mobile home." He looks pleased, then adds, "And probably rent a car, so they don't see my rather notable one."

Shateishael rises, grins at Rosie's astonishment, then grins at Sax, "Don't you remember his story at the Feasting Tables? Better prepared ahead of time, I say." He paces quietly towards the door, to fetch a change of clothes and his swords.

Rosenstern grins quietly, "Not that I'd mind if that's what we had to do. I was just wondering if it was really that big." He looks between Slate and Sax, albeit a little worriedly and slightly discomfited.

Shateishael points a finger at Rosie from the door and grins, "You listen to the Sax-man, 'kay? -and in combat, remember -- you do what Nick says, and we're all cool!"

Rosenstern fidgets a bit and nods, letting out a breath. "Sure thing, Slate..."

Shateishael smiles at Rosie (not without some relief) then rumbles amiably at Sax, "He may be just a hippie -- but he's our hippie... and we take care of our own." He's chuckling quietly to himself as he heads out the door.

Sax shrugs. "All right, man. No worries there." He wanders into the back and comes back wearing a white tank top and a shoulder rig, and holding a black Hawaiian shirt in one hand and a gun in the other. He checks the action on the gun, holsters it, then throws the shirt on. "I'm ready," he says, and grins, punching Rosen lightly on the shoulder. "Don't worry, bro. You just cover me and I'll take the point."

Rosenstern *urfs* just a little with the nudge, and smiles quietly to Sax, nodding softly. "I'll try not to get underfoot." He's reasonably free from worry, however; if what they know is true, they're going to where there's already a Malakite and Ofanite there, soon to be joined by a Cherub, a Seraph, another Ofanite, a Kyriotate, and, well, a Mercurian. If it's 'only' one Balseraph... He stops himself before he thinks that any further. No need to jinx the whole thing even before they're on the road.

Thessaloniki moves off to put together a couple of changes of clothes for himself, and to make sure he's got his big gun too. He packs a toolbox, a shovel, an axe, a mess of rope, and a bunch of other generally useful stuff, including a big tent. If anybody looks, they'll think it's a camping trip, rather than anything unusual. Shateishael helps Nick heft stuff around as necessary, and soon they're packed and ready to go.

Thessaloniki says, "Long ago, I learned that it's better to take a little time ahead and prepare, than it is to rush in without thinking and to have needed something," as he looks at the trunk-full of stuff. He tosses his light bag in, checks that he has his credit cards and wallet, then comments, "I really ought to get some fake ID. Ah well." He looks up, "Everybody ready?"

Rosenstern briefly checks to see if his cell phone can do that 'roaming' thing (since Lubbock is so far away), makes sure he has everything else he might need, and then nods. "I think I'm all set."

Taygeta isn't a heck of a lot of help packing, though he does poke around and check for interesting things that might be forgotten. When all is in readiness, he makes sure that Tom has plenty of food, water, and clean litter before withdrawing from the cat. "All set."

Shateishael nods, tossing his backpack into the Airstream's passenger foot-well. "Let's ride. Sax, you leave a message in case Rei comes back while we're gone?"

Sax smirks, "You got my word that I will personally fuck up anyone that tries to lay a hand on your little vegan head, flower child." Shateishael laughs! Sax nods. "It's all good, Slate. We can go whenever."

Rosenstern blinks to Sax, a bit incredulously but also seriously surprised. "Ahh... if they deserve it, I'm not going to complain..." Then he grins again. "Or worry. Thanks, Sax."

Sax waves over his shoulder, headed for the huge, gleaming silver mobile home. "Yeah, yeah, I'm gettin' misty. C'mon, I'll show you how to use that thing."

Shateishael nods, puts on his shades, and settles comfortably in the passenger seat. He's silent for a moment... then suddenly, cheerfully bellows, "Hit da road, Jack!" He grins... then turns the radio on. Rosenstern laughs quietly at Slate's cheerful bellow, following Sax, and doesn't continue the rest of the song: And don't you come back no mo', no mo'...

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