Devil's In The Details [Close]

[Lucyfer]

Elisha met the gaze of the lord without issue, calm and collected. Of course, the lord refused to say a word to him, which was just fine by Elisha. He smiled pleasantly when the lord turned away to resume insulting a teenage girl. ‘How pathetic are you, angel?’ It was no wonder this one was among the fallen.


When he walked away, a figure walked up behind Elisha and wrapped one arm around him. Elisha let his red eyes move to observe the man he expected. The red-headed demon was ever the same, “Good to see you!” He said in a chipper way.


Elisha shrugged the arm off, “I heard you got employment here in London. Ah, so, who is it you serve now?”


Elisha mentally sighed. Azazel could be…annoying, when he came to Earth.


He hesitantly approached Melody, “My lady,” he said quietly, Azazel walking behind him. He looked to Azazel, then to her, “This is a friend of mine come to the party from—”


“Germany,” he answered, and offered a hand. He decided, then and there, that he knew what he was going to take from Shemhazai when all was said and done, and he’d figured out this angel thing. “The name is Cain Barston,” he still had no idea what name Shemhazai was using, but he knew his friend would find a way to make it known.

 

[Scarlatina]

"Melody Rosario", she offered her hand in turn, "A friend of Elisha's, that is rather odd. Regardless it is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Barston."


She awaited the Prince still, but more and more people came in. It was at this time the orchestra began to play their music. Many people were already socializing as servants went from group to group serving drinks, food, and something else. What are they carrying around, she pondered seeing the tray whisked by. On it was a group of letters. Invitations were taken at the door so what are these? She returned to Cain and Elisha.


"I am terribly sorry, I am slightly distracted", she continued, "May I ask how you know Elisha?"

 

[Lucyfer]

“Melody Rosario,” Cain repeated, and Elisha observed the way he seemed to be tasting the name. His eyes, finally, narrowed.


Cain didn’t appear to notice. He did see the distraction of Melody, and how she was evidently here alone. He smiled kindly at her distraction, “Oh, Elisha?” He glanced at him, “Curious,” and then back to Melody, “Elisha and I were childhood friends, you could say, when I was here in London. I must say, I did not expect him to find employment in such noble areas, unless it was mine.”


Now Elisha crossed his arms, his eyes all but burning with a quiet rage. He had been in Azazel’s employ before, his second-in-command. “He asked a favor of me, but I’m afraid—”


“—he needs to get on that,” Elisha finally interrupted. He grabbed the black jacket of Cain and pulled him away from Melody, “Do excuse us, my lady. I’m sure the prince shall be around soon.” He had no idea. From his perspective, it looked like she was being stood up. Perhaps that meant good things for Russian relations, though.


Either way, he led Cain off from Melody and the others, seeking a quiet area.

 

[Scarlatina]

Melody observed them for the time being, confused slightly.


"Strange bunch aren't they'", a male voice said approaching from her left side as she leaned against the wall. She looked over and almost stood in shock.


"Alister", she asked as the young man smiled at the name.


"So you remembered me", he said still in a low tone. It had been years but he had aged into quiet the young man, "I was told you would be here."


Alister Crowley was not someone she expected to see at a party like this. She never in fact intended to meet him ever again. He stood there looking at her with his dark amber eyes. His short black hair would make the night envy him. His suit was pure black pearl design, no sign of any color from seem to fabric, only thing noticeable from his clothing was the pocket watch chain hanging from his left trouser pocket. He was dreessed to impress, and for the moment Melody lost herself looking at him.

 

[Lucyfer]

Elisha took a couple drinks from a tray they passed and put one into Cain’s hands when they stopped. He sipped at it, asked, “What’s the rush, Elisha?” It was so very tempting to use his real name, but he wasn’t an idiot. If there was an angel somewhere who hadn’t stopped in to pay his regards to hell, that meant the angel was likely still their enemy—fallen or no.


“We have matters of your business to discuss.”


“And my reward,” his eyes moved back to the young girl in the crowd, “I think I’d like her.”


“I’m afraid you will have to consider something else,” Elisha didn’t dwell on it, wouldn’t dwell on it. He instead turned his attention to the crowd, “You see the man with the medals?” Cain turned his eyes to the crowd and sought him out. He gave a nod. “That is who I need more information on.”


“Cherubim, no doubt,” he assessed just as quickly. “Warmongers,” and all those war medals indicated that much, “I’ll find out who. Wouldn’t it be grand if it were Uriel?” He almost laughed at the idea. Instead, he brought is glass of champagne to click against Elisha’s, and then he walked off to meet whoever this ‘angel’ was.

 

[Scarlatina]

Melody stood beside Alister, somewhat flushed as he stood with some sign of confidence. Whispers spread like wildfire across the room as glances are taken in their direction. Alister didn't seem to mind however, but Melody did. She never realized why she was uncomfortable around him, it wasn't like she was suppose to fall in love anymore. A deal with a demon, your soul for your wish. If anything, Alister would have been the reason to take it all back, but she couldn't. Not to mention, her own guilt to add.


A year before the flames took her life. Alister and Melody were bound to one another through an agreement of both their fathers. An agreement of sort, the two households would become more like a family, though nothing else would be shared. Simply put, Alister, the only child, would marry Melody for merely political reasons. Melody, at this current time, didn't agree to the conditions and often tried her best to fight them. Before the final words passed, Alister's father passed away, leaving Alister in-charge. When he approached Melody, he offered to marry her if it were her wish, but if she were to deny it, he would leave.


Alister stood much like a statue, eyes looking about the crowd until they come to lock on one man. Issac was talking with a few of his own friends. The party was in motion, with no sign of the prince. Melody grew impatient, but remained still as she feared Alister's protest. This caused more rumors to fly. It wasn't public knowledge what happen to the two of them, but Alister had a reputation, Melody as well. Melody begin to look for Elisha, hopeing he could save her from this embarrassment. Then again he might enjoy watching me squirm, she thought to herself.

 

[Lucyfer]

Elisha did, of course, like to see Melody squirm. She tried to act haughty and powerful all the time, so those moments where she was reminded just how weak and fragile she was amused him. He continued to sip his champagne as he walked through the crowd a bit, taking in the whispers about his charge.


‘Well, at least he’s closer in age than the prince.’ Who still hadn’t come.


Ah, this was bound to be a scandal later, that the prince didn’t even show up to the royal event. Well, at least it wasn’t damaging his charge’s reputation, and so he gradually made his way over to her. “Dull party, isn’t it?” He couldn’t help but find it tedious. There was absolutely nothing to do.


Except keep an eye on Cain, as he moved to where Issac was. “Lord Issac!” He spoke with admiration, though it was a bit too thick to be sincere. “I have heard such wonderful things about you,” he commented and offered his hand, ignoring all of Issac’s surrounding friends, “I’m Cain,” Azazel never changed. He always used that name, “Cain Barston. How are you doing?”

 

[Scarlatina]

Alister looked over at Elisha as he approached. His expression didn't really change all to much, thought here was a hint of smile of greeting. Melody looked up to see Elisha, "Well, you and your friend were gone awhile. Care to explain why?"


She was actually looking for an excuse to get away, but her opportunity was cut off as Alister offered his hand to Elisha. "You must be this Elisha I hear about. The Queen speaks great things of you. Says you're quiet an educated man for your status."


On the other side of the room, Lord Issac looked at Cain Barston and after awhile shook his hand. "Quiet an interesting name, I am sure I have heard one similar somewhere before. What can I do for you?"


The music shifted as more people waltzed to a new rhythm. A sense of joy came from the strings of well trained men and women as they flowed through out the halls of the manor and soon outside. The commotion died down to enjoy the music as servants moved frivolously through the ballroom serving groups of people. One managed to get to Melody and the group.

 

[Lucyfer]

“My friend and I have a common interest of which you showed no interest in, my lady, so I did not wish to bother you with it,” Elisha answered Melody’s query, imagining she could put together the pieces. He could not speak so plainly here, and would not speak plainly before the stranger his charge had decided to stand so close to as to start rumors.


Ah, humans. Natural gossips, all of them.


The individual came over and offered his hand. Elisha accepted the offered hand, “You have heard correct, but I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage. I have no idea who you are.”


~***~


‘You insult me.’ Cain thought when the so-called angel greeted him. Indeed, it was hard to figure out just who it was. “I just moved here from Germany,” Cain answered him, “I understand you’re the man to see about getting acquainted with war and the like—I would like to be of assistance here, as I was in Germany so far as arms production went,” the best way to know one’s enemy was to be close.


If Elisha thought he was cherubim, then that was because of a warrior’s nature. This seemed as good a way as any, and Azazel did have experiences.

 

[Scarlatina]

"Alister Crowley", Alister said, pulling his hand away, "I understand the concern. I am not one to partake in parties with the likes of Lords and Ladies, let alone at all. My profession requires I stay out of sight, and out of mind. So much so that the Queen wrote a misleading letter, claiming her son, Prince Albert, would be hosting the party."


Melody turned to look at Alister, who's face didn't change expression. He looked back at her, causing her to panic almost and hide her face. Again emotions stir she never wanted to feel again. A sweet aroma rose from her during this. Alister turned his attention back to Elisha to continue the conversation.


Lord Issac seem somewhat unimpressed by Cain's advancements. His tone said it all, "Germany you say, and weapons manufacturing? Are you the one who had his factory destroyed to due to faulty engineering."


It was at this moment, with the hissing tone of a snake, that it became clear what he was attempting to do. He was trying o destroy Cain's self proclaimed reputation. Why was uncertain, but he made his moves clear. He wanted nothing to do with Cain.

 

[Lucyfer]

“Do contain yourself,” Elisha couldn’t help but comment to Melody as that smell of lust reached his nostrils and he wrinkled his nose. He was embarrassed for her and the way she seemed to hide and squeak, like a mouse seen by a cat.


He then addressed Alister, “Well, I’m so glad you come. Since you have informed us of the Queen’s lie, perhaps you intend to tell us the truth of the matter before my lady embarrasses herself further?” She was already humiliated by being asked here without the prince to escort her, now she was acting the fool because some pretty little human man looked at her.


Cain had been playing this game for much longer than Issac, of that, he was certain. He laughed off the idea, clearly unphased by the accusation, “Oh no, not at all, that was one of my competitors. Poor man,” Cain chuckled, but it was clear by his words he wanted to indicate he was responsible. He had no shame. He played shrewd.


Of course, he had nothing to do with such a thing. He didn’t have a weapons factory—not yet. He could have one in a night, of course, and he had such grand ideas. Armored vehicles! Yes, that he saw easily in the near future. “My products are much better than that, have been forever,” after all, it was Azazel who even taught humans how to work with metal.

 

[Scarlatina]

Alister looked back at Melody for a moment before answering, "Honestly, I am the one hosting this evenings affairs, I am not very good at it, by with my staff and the Queen's, we managed something. You could say however, that we are hunters setting a trap. I can't go into much detail, but I will say this. Melody is the bait this evening."


"What do you mean I am bait", she managed to finally say past her shy and awkward moment of silence, "You are telling me that I am being used fro some hunting game?"


"No just any hunting game", Alister looked forward, eyes shut, and his right index finger up as if to silence her, "I take it you heard of the recent murders of young females? If not, let me enlighten you. A recent string of murders have been occurring. Young ladies coming home from a party are often found alone and dead in some dark corner of the town or manor. It is said they all been escorted by a man who then just vanished with them. He leaves no evidence aside from a body, and what appear as bite marks on his victims necks. Which is why this party has been set up, he seems to enjoy lavish parties, and often is found roaming for his pray. Which we hope is you Melody, you do look rather tasty if I do say so myself."


Its too obvious to not notice at this point. He is saying these things cause it causes a reaction from her, and he seems to be enjoying every minute of it. Maybe its revenge from the past or pure enjoyment, who knows.


Issac looked him up and down, part of him looked impressed, "Well I am sure his failure lead to your success. What is you want with an old war general anyway?"


Question was simple, but Issac's curiosity had finally won over. It was time to poke and prod.

 

[Lucyfer]

“So a vampire,” Elisha concluded in a bored tone. He thought Allister couldn’t go into much detail, but the man gave everything away. “I do hope you will be watching the other women of this party as well, in case this particular bait isn’t taken?” Not that Elisha really cared all that much about whether or not anyone else died. His charge was only Melody, and he would make sure nothing happened to her.


That was his job, after all. “I suppose I ought to keep my distance then, so that he takes the proper bait,” Elisha mused, more to himself. He’d see if Melody would protest. “You, as well, Allister.”


~***~


Cain’s lips widened into a smile, “Well, his failure hasn’t hurt my business any, but I’ve been looking to branch out. I’ve had ideas for a while, but Germany just isn’t willing to fund them. They’re content with how things are. I thought I might talk a while with you on them, and see if you might be willing to collaborate.”

 

[Scarlatina]

"You would think that, wouldn't you. I mean the information I provided is how the newspaper paints this villain to a commoner."


Alister leans back against the wall and looks out amongst the crowd, "As for your concern towards other women here, take a look at the others. Notice that there are no young females here, in fact the women here are all quiet old in comparison to Lady Rosario."


This fact was true. Only one female close to Melody's age was at least 10 years older then her. Seems Alister thought this idea up, in fact took into account who would come and who wouldn't. There was not even a female amongst the servants who are dashing about, or the orchestra that was playing. Alister had planed this from the beginning, making sure there was only one target. "I should also mention. There is something I am planing to happen, something not even the newspapers know about the criminal. After all, I wouldn't be the Queen's Beast if I didn't know how to play the game."


He pushed himself off the wall and stood looking at Elisha, "There is something I would like to ask of you however, if you are alright with it. I mean its not like we are facing a demon or something."


Melody remained silent the entire time, something was unsettling this entire time. Alister looked back at for a second then returned his gaze toward Elisha, looking up at him some. He was around Melody's age and wasn't the tallest man in the room, still some room to grow.


~~~~


Issac grinned slightly, " I am sure there are a few things we could discuss. But I am afraid that tonight isn't the best time, we are at Prince Albert's party, and this is no place to discuss matters of war. Perhaps, we could talk about this over brunch tomorrow, at my manor. I am sure you know where I live given your eagerness for meeting me."


He extended his hand to shake Cain's. Another man approached a group, dressed in an almost brilliant white suit. A dress blade remained in its hilt strapped on his waste, dangling freely but within the control of the man. Upon approaching, Cain would get the sense of a strong power surrounding the man. Angelic almost with how brilliant his clothing was to an almost shine he gave. is smile was innocent as he bowed slightly to Issac.

 

[Lucyfer]

‘Do you doubt it?’ Elisha didn’t ask Alister that aloud, for he assumed an employee of the Queen understood that these sorts of things existed. At least, he hoped so. Elisha did look over the crowd when it was suggested he do so, and noted there were no other young women.


A smart criminal would notice this, if they were glancing through the crowd for prey. They’d change tactics, or take no one that night. “Mm,” Elisha made a noise to note he recognized the plan. “Beasts usually aren’t very good at games, you know,” he smiled a bit broadly after saying that. Beasts were simple creatures that could be controlled. Their instinct could make them appear intelligent, but they weren’t.


There was another part to this, and Elisha nodded, “I see no harm in it,” he said, eyes moving as he, too, felt that strong aura of the angel. ‘Well, well.’ Not Issac then, but still someone aligned with him. How interesting. He would have thought an angel would be smart enough to hide his aura, like Cain and he did.


Though Elisha looked the way of the angel, he still encouraged Alister, “Ask.”


~***~


Cain did reach for Issac’s hand, but paused mid-way, attention taken by the approach of the angel. ‘You idiot!’ He wanted to shout at Elisha, but of course, that wouldn’t work out. Then again, the angel was being foolish by not masking his aura at all. No doubt, others were going to figure out he was here soon and come after him.


Noting his own pause, he laughed and then shook Issac’s hand, grip firm, “I can meet you for brunch. It would be my pleasure,” he answered with a charming smile, before retrieving his hand from the grip.

 

[Scarlatina]

"Simple request", Alister looked away and faced forward as the music changed to a more upbeat performance, "Make sure no harm comes to the young Lady, its bad enough she hangs like a well cooked piece of meet at this gathering. I rather not have her completely devoured by such beasts as well."


He spook rather possessively about Melody, an odd tone rather was added near the end. Regardless, he didn't linger long as he walked off, leaving Melody to her thoughts. It was obvious she hated the fact she was played like this by someone she trusted. If the Queen had only told her she would have understood, maybe handled things differently, but understood never the less. She looked up at Elisha, "What do you think, I am sure you have an opinion on this."


~~~~~


"Excellent", Issac said as he retracted his hand, "Now if you will excuse me, I have some private matters to attend to."


He didn't give Cain a chance to retort and instead just started walking off, rather rudely. The Angelic man was following, and whispering it appeared. Whatever he had to say it was obviously not good in any sense, Issac frowned at what he had to say and waved his hand rather firming in disgust. The Man bowed and turned away from the group, looking directly at Elisha for whatever reason, before making his leave. There was a reason for his presence, what no one could tell at the given moment.

 

[Lucyfer]

Elisha smiled at Melody when she asked her question. “I find you humans and your need for deceit to get what you want to be, as always, charming and amusing,” he then bowed to her, “but I must be away in order to allow this game to play out.” He would be watching, but he understood that if he hung by Melody’s side, this game would not lead to victory.


Of course, if Melody didn’t want to play, all she had to do was tell Elisha and he would not allow the Queen’s dog to have his way and use Melody as bait. He’d never let her be alone long enough for anyone to consider approaching. As it was, though, he assumed Melody wanted to impress the human she was lusting after, and so he turned to walk into the crowd and mingle.


~***~


Cain took his leave without problems, and made a beeline for Elisha, who was departing from Melody. It was a shame, but he supposed it would allow them to speak more freely. He could point out the fact that Elisha hadn’t known who the real angel was. That would be fun to do, to poke at the Whisperer’s ego.

 

[Scarlatina]

Melody didn't say a word, but her body language did show a hint of disdain for the environment that she was placed in. It wouldn't be long before rumors started up again in the mill, being she was the youngest there of coarse would start to beg the question of reason. This thought lingered for a moment or two until her attention was brought out by a hand being offered to her. She looked up to see a man clad in a white suit, adorn in a gold medal design for lace and trims. A dress sword rested on his side, this was the same man who had approached Lord Issac.


He didn't grin or even show a hint of emotion toward her, "A young lady like yourself shouldn't be at a party like this unattended."


She smiled, for some reason she could explain why she this man gave such a good aura but whatever reason she was at ease for the moment. Her hand laid politely on his as he bent down a kissed it rather traditionally, "Quiet the gentlemen I see?"


His face remained still, un-moving, "I grew up with manners m'lady. However, you still dodged my question."


Melody appeared confused for a moment. Then she realized, "You didn't ask it in a questioning manner, tone does imply meaning."


He nodded slightly, closing his eyes for a moment before returning their gaze to her, "My apologize, with regards I am Sir Lance Leoparada"


His appearance became more noticeable now. Long golden blonde hair that was curiously wavy toward the end of its length, hitting his shoulders for a rest. His complexion was smooth, undamaged and almost innocent if his expression didn't confuse people the other way. Eye were baby blue and deep, Melody herself almost got lost looking straight at him. He wasn't big, if anything he was a foot taller then Melody and only fit for his looks. He gave the sense of a guard if nothing else, soldier not so much at least not in this day in age. The aura came back to her this time, sense of protection and righteousness was merely projected from this man. It was at this moment Melody realized the danger she could be in.


~~~~~


(Since Issac is woundering off Until something else happens this will be blank for the time being)