The Joker and the Thief in the night

[Ninja]

The serpent now far below Evelyn continued to slowly circle the wharf, it's long scaly body weaving in and out of the crates and machinery dotted around. It's vision and senses still locked on the darkened pit as it slid around the edge, that was however until a sound emanating from above caused the beast to pause in its movements.

Slowly and with malicious intent the serpent began to raise its head, tongue flicking out before it as it tasted the air, it's one good eye scanning the forest of cranes and cables reaching up several floors above it. For a moment the creature saw nothing until a single movement instantly brought all it's senses focusing on a single part of a cranes lattice framework several floors above.

It's tongue slipped out slowly once more as it's body began to coil tightly behind it, hissing beginning to build as the serpent prepared to strike, all of it's senses now focused roughly on where Evelyn now climbed, the serpent now searching for any further hint of movement above.

 

[Olive Tome]

A slow building hiss made every nerve in Evelyn’s body freeze. She did not dare move a muscle, head still facing straight ahead towards the top level floor. Her heart began to beat rapidly against her chest as she thought of how she could possibly escape the current debacle. There was no way in hell she would be able to out manoeuvre the Serpent from this height, not with the lack of moving space. If she fell it could cause serious injuries.

Or worse.

Gulping in fear, Evelyn’s grip tightened around the metal as she contemplated her next move. The hissing became louder and that was when she made her next move. Her mouth tightened around the clothed part of the blade as it became loose.

Taking her hands off the metal, Evelyn stood and balanced herself out before moving as fast as she could up the crane. The snake saw her with its one eye and lunged towards her and the crane. Thankfully, it missed her, but the large beast ended up ramming itself into the crane making it shake violently. Leather boots lose their grip and Evelyn slipped. In shock, her mouth opened to yelp and he sword dropped from her view. Her hands, however, managed to grip onto the crane and held tightly. If she fell, it could lead to death, yet she did not have time to pull herself back up as she stared into the one dark eye of the creature staring back at her.

 

[Ninja]

Isaac slowed as he approached the wharf building, his eyes beginning to scan the debris of the door in front of him. Well the creature was certainly in a hurry when it chased her in here. He kneels beside the now jagged stone edge that once held the door frame in place, his eyes fixated on a piece of the serpents skin clinging to the surface, something about it catching his eye. "That's odd." He says out loud as he pulls out a handkerchief from his pocket, tearing off a small piece of skin he wraps it gently before tucking it within his coat, his head lifts as he peers into the dark interior beyond before slowly moving inside.

Cautiously he begins to edge his way towards the centre of the wharf, darting from pillar to pillar in the darkness always moving towards the hissing sound of the serpent somewhere in the inky blackness before him. He slows and ducks low behind a crate as the creature comes into view ahead, he watches as the serpent begins to coil back, its vision fixed up high somewhere in the wharf above. Isaac's eyes follow the creatures gaze, a sudden gut wrenching feeling filling him deep inside as he see's the woman clinging desperately to the metal framework, he looks around quickly surveying everything around him before his eyes settle upon the ramp used to drop barrels directly into the pit below. Once more he surveys the area around him before finding exactly what he needs, he moves quickly now towards the ramp only diverting briefly as he bends low grabbing hold of the barrel lid leaned against the crates to one side. He curves out slightly giving himself room before turning to run full speed towards the ramp. "Well" he says as he lifts the lid in front of him, gripping the two metal straps bolted to its surface as he nears the ramp "this should be different" he leaps over the edge dropping the lid down under him as his feet took neatly into the metal straps picking up speed as he drops towards the lower floor below and the coiled serpent.

"Come and get me you ugly bastard" He yells sliding downwards as the creature now tilts it's head towards him. Seconds later as Isaac now slid towards the edge he bends his knee's and with all his might kicks off at the end propelling himself through the air towards the serpents head. Already coiled the beast now switches target, lunging towards him as he flies through the air, but Isaac had already bent his knees up, pulling off the wooden lid and gripping it like a shield aimed towards the creature. It's head smashes hard into the wooden lid, flinging itself and Isaac down into the pit below,the shield now shattered into pieces Isaac hits the ground hard letting his body roll as the momentum carries him across the cold damp floor, fortunately the Serpent also fared no better as it too smashed hard into the steep stone wall of the darkened pit. His arms held tight against his chest holding what he assumes is several broken ribs Isaac now looks up to where the woman now hung, a hand shakily points up towards the barrels above before yelling out to her.

"Cut them free"

Pain shoots up his spine as Isaac now turns his head as the Serpent struggles to right itself, hisses and roars thundering around the high sided walls of the pit, he turns his head once more to shout up to her.

"Do it, Do it NOW!"

 

[Olive Tome]

Grey eyes waited for her life to play back to her. People always said when you were going to die your life would flash before your eyes. Well, that never came for Evelyn, so she assumed the worst as the Serpent's tongue flickered out close to her face. Evelyn looked down at the ground once more. Nope, too far of a drop, Evelyn thought as she looked back up at the beast edging closer. It was as if it was toying with its meal.

Why did these creatures have to be such bastards?

That was when the man made his appearance once more, and unlike last time, it was more than welcomed. The longer they were around each other the more Evelyn got to know of this mystery man who cried over his fancy shirt. For one, he seemed to be the master of the most stupid and insane stunts she has ever had the pleasure of seeing. The redheaded huntress almost could not believe he was using a board to move around so quickly. It was genius - and stupid. Either way, it was enough to get the damn Serpent off her back, in which her arms were grateful of. Evelyn mustered up the last of her strength and pulled herself back up onto the crane. This night had becoming taxing on her physical strength.

“Do it, do it now!” She heard the man say as he pointed upwards. Her eyes followed and she saw barrels dangling like a treat as if it was the mouse to her cat. Evelyn ran up the cane and jumped onto the top floor before running over to the closest spot to the barrels. All of which took a couple seconds as she pulled the axe out of the holster once more. Not taking a second to breathe, she leaned over the railing and cut the rope holding the barrels. Gravity did the rest of the work for her as they dropped, one even landed on the Serpent’s head causing it to go back to the ground and hiss.

The capsule!

Evelyn rummaged through her pocket and pulled out the capsule. Her eyes focused on it for a second before leaning over the railing once more. The man told her she needed to throw it. To make the explosion. Before the beast could get up and escape, Evelyn throw the capsule towards the bottom floor. “Incoming!”

 

[Ninja]

Before the woman had even released the barrels Isaac was already scrambling to his feet, he was sure now that several of his ribs had broken yet he pushed through the pain, determined not to die alongside this creature from the depths. He could see the beast in the corner of his eyes positioning itself to strike once more as he continued to launch himself across the floor of the pit with every ounce of speed he could muster. He looks up allowing himself a brief glimpse above just in time to see the woman leaning over the edge of the crane platform a blade, no, not just any blade he realises, his blade in her hand.

As she begins to hack into the rope to cut free the heavy cargo of barrels hung below it, Isaac launches himself towards the crane, hand out stretched, fingers spread wide as he reached out to grab the other end of the rope. As the final strand broke free the counterweights, now no longer held in place also begin to plummet snapping free the end Isaac now desperately clung to as he shot upwards, just barely snatching him up and away from the serpent's jaws. Isaac scarcely had enough time to look below to see one of the barrels smash hard into the serpent's face, it like all the others immediately releasing there flammable liquids to spread across the floor of the pit.

As he continued accelerating up towards the very top of the crane his eyes gaze upon the glistening capsule as it passes him by, before it too smashes upon the snout of the creature seconds later a mighty explosion erupts flashing the serpent out of existence in a blinding detonation. Flames erupt across the pit as a huge fireball shoots upwards and just as it almost threatens to engulf Isaac too the rope flicks upwards as it reaches the top pulley flinging him onwards.

He lets his weight tip forward gently cartwheeling over and now as he reaches the top of his arc he flips forward before landing feet first next to the woman, her face a mixture of shock and amazement as the flames still dance brightly below them.

"I believe you have my blade" he says his hand reaching out to her before the pain of the broken ribs quickly snatches it back to hold them.

"Actually you hold onto it for a little while, I need to lie down"

 

[Olive Tome]

It. Was. Glorious.

The large fireball, the vibrations that could be felt through the walls and flooring and the bright reddish-orange flames engulfing the snake below. It was so beautiful to watch, even if the searing brightness of the flames made Evelyn squint and use a hand to block some of the light. The screams of the Serpent below could be heard as it slowly roasted to death. Even that sound was sort of satisfying. It enraptured her to the point where she almost forgot the hunter was standing beside her. Almost.

The redheaded huntress looked over at him as the light from the flame became less intense. No ‘thanks’ or ‘good job’ just wanting to get his grubby little hands on his sword. She had half a mind to run out with it. Would not be the first or last time she stole something from someone. If it looked valuable it could be sold. Any money she could get the better. Yet, Evelyn was not that greedy. Would be rude seeing as he gave her a coin purse full of gold earlier. Maybe he can keep his sword if he doesn’t keep upsetting her, then she may change her mind.

Steel eyes with blue-green speckles looked over the hunter closely now that there was not a creature after them. Cute face, but ruined by the amount of blood and ash that covered it and the clothing. Evelyn became alerted when she saw his posture, he needed to see a doctor. Victoria could help him, she helped Evelyn in the past. “We need to get you to a doctor. Come, I know someone who could care for you discreetly.”

 

[Ninja]

Isaac leaned against the woman as they walked through the dark grimey alleys leading away from the docks, ocassionally the now flame engulfed ruins of the wharf could still be seen glowing in the night sky behind them. One hand over the womans shoulder he fumbles in his pocket for his watch before taking it out to reveal the cracked shattered remnants of the glass.

"Damn"

He lifts his arm from around the woman, noticing a puzzled look on her face as he now paused leaning against a rain soaked wall. His fingers still playing with the watch he looks at her through his dark blue eyes, even behind the dirt and grime she was clearly very beautiful, her hair as knotted and tangled as it was, still flowed in places. As the look of puzzlement gave way to impatience he watched as a single rain drop glistened as it trickled down the soft gentle curve of her cheek.

He looks down the alleyway towards the direction they were heading, little wrinkles forming across his brow as a worrying thought enters his mind.

"Madam I believe I may of been rather rude to you this evening"

He returns his gaze to her as rain continues to fall from the heavens upon them both.

"Not many can claim to have fought a serpent from the depths and survived"

He lifts his hand towards her a slight twitch of pain still visible as he does so, his fingers spread upwards waiting for her hand to be placed within it.

"I am Isaac Harker"

 

[Olive Tome]

The man had stopped and rested against the wall much to Evelyn’s confusion and then annoyance. The red-haired woman had no idea as to what he was up to besides looking at her. Impatience grew as her eyes flickered back to the light golden light of the Wharf in the distance. No doubt authorities would be on their way and Evelyn certainly did not want to get caught red handed. What would her father think he if found out?

However, Evelyn did not have much time to dwell on the matter as she got distracted by the man staring at her. Even with the thick amount of tattered clothing, she could tell he was well toned and his jaw was strong. When he looked at her she couldn’t help but feel a little heated in the cheeks much to her annoyance. There was something hidden behind his eyes that were not a quality seen too often in men. Yet, she could not put a finger on what exactly it was. In the end, he was quite handsome when he did not open his mouth. Maybe, just maybe, Evelyn may have thought he was not as bad as she first made him out to be.

A big maybe.

Evelyn snapped back to attention when he raised his hand and introduced himself as Isaac Harker. A nice name it was and Evelyn tried to see if she ever heard the name before. Nothing came to mind, though.

The way he held his hand made Evelyn smirk. “Well, I did have a little bit of help, Isaac.” Palm upwards and waiting for her to comply. She assumed he would have done the tradition act men did when introducing themselves to ladies by kissing their dainty, little hands. Always the type to do the unexpected, Evelyn reached out and grabbed his hand gently as to not hurt the obviously still in pain man before giving it a gentle shake.

“My name is Evelyn Blumenstein,” she spoke with a slight german flair on her last name. She never had too much of an accent, but when it came to her surname it was hard not to say it the way her father did, who always had a heavy accent. “We should get you some medical attention. Please, we need to hurry.”

 

[Ninja]

For the briefest of moments Isaac had imagined things going a little differently when he held out his hand, but as he stood there shaking hands with Evelyn he couldn't help but feel slightly amused at her rather refreshing response. The slight grin at this though was quickly replace by a frown upon hearing the name Blumenstein and while he couldn't quite put his finger on where he had heard the name before he also could not shake the feeling that he recognised it.

“We should get you some medical attention. Please, we need to hurry.”

Her voice once more pulled him out of deep thought as he once more looked down the alley to where they were previously heading before pushing off from the wall.

"Very well"

He turns and starts to walk down the alley this time seemingly not needing her support before pausing to look behind him.

"Well come along then, I have a feeling I know where we are heading"

 

[Olive Tome]

It had been amazing as to how Isaac could move on his own. At least, that was what Evelyn was thinking as those injuries should have made it rather difficult for him to even move.Yet he was entirely capable of doing it on his own. However, what was even more surprising was the fact that, apparently, Isaac knew where they were going. It was highly unlikely Victoria would deal with someone as…. odd as Isaac. Yes, odd appeared to be the only word that went with the strange gentleman.

As much as her mind would love to dwell on the enigma that was Isaac Harker, she had to get him to the Victoria or he’ll be dead before she could get any answers. Therefore, she started to walk beside the hunter as they made their way to her friend’s abode.


----

They rounded the corner onto the old brick street of London. Small sign pointing east saying Allen Edwards road, the direction they were heading. Each house was spaced apart with a good minute walk between each. The neighbourhood was known for the upper-class snobs. Some of which Evelyn even worked for as a maid, until she got fired for stealing - which they could not prove.

All the houses at least three stories high with pointed, iron fences and gates to keep the unwanted out. All except one, which happened to be the one they were heading too. Victoria Frankenstein's mansion. A sprawling three story home with a light green painted wood look with dark green accenting the doors and windows. Along with the three story house was a small rounded tower attached to the house. Even figured there was a fancy name for it but she could not be bothered with snobbish terms. Not that her dear friend was one of them. As they walked up the cracked stone pathway to the door, they passed several small box-shaped hedges that helped bring some life to her yard.

It completely contradicted the research she was known throughout London for.

Evelyn glanced back at Isaac as she made light-sounded steps going up the hollow wooden stairs to the porch. Her hand grazing the dull white railing as she ascended. Then, she knocked rather roughly on the wooden door with her already cut and bruised hands. She learned to ignore the pain a while ago as it was necessary for the type of employment Evelyn had.

As the redhead waited, another with hair as black as a raven’s feather answered through a tiny crack in the open door. Tired, brown eyes looked at the pale face of Evelyn as they both started to smile. “Vee, long time no see. Sorry I have not been around for tea.”

Victoria opened the door wider and was about to speak before her eyes fell onto Isaac. Her lips pursed as she darted her eyes between them for a quick moment. “Well, never expected you two would team up let alone even knew of each other’s existence.” She spoke slowly trying to make sense of why they would work together. Evelyn just shrugged in response. “Oh, it does not matter. Please, come in the both of you’s. I shall make us some tea.” She stepped out of the way to allow both of her guests to enter before closing the door behind them, but not before peeking to make sure no one was watching.

The black-haired woman led them to the living room where a fire was already lit and books sprawled across the table. Past an open archway, the laboratory could be seen. Test tubes, potion cabinets and other complex scientific devices could be seen. Many of them Evelyn had no idea how they worked. Science was not her area of expertise, economics was. “Victoria, Isaac here has been badly injured during a fight. Can you help him?” Evelyn asked as she walked into the room with the others, making sure to hide her injured hands. No reason to fret over small cuts.

 

[Ninja]

"Oh he was injured you say"

Victoria eyed Isaac with a warning glare as if trying to tell him something but unfortunately all she got in return was Isaac silently mouthing the word Vee questioningly back in her direction. Victoria rolled her eyes before walking over to the pile of books, lifting one rather large book she picked up the small leather bound bundle directly under it before turning back to face them.

"I wouldn't worry yourself about Isaac here Eve, he's tougher than he looks"

She tosses the package a little harder than necessary at Isaac as he made his way to an old antique looking chair over by the fire, his reactions were remarkably quick for a man with broken ribs, catching the package square in the chest before dropping backwards into the chair. He shuffled back as the old worn leather squeaked gently as he sunk deeper into it's grasp, before pulling a single strand to begin unbinding the bundle.

"Well Victoria"

He pauses, a little smile running across his face as he continues to unwrap the bindings

"Or is it Vee now"

He shrugs before continuing with a slightly strained look of sorrow across his face.

"I happen to be gravely wounded, who knows if I'll survive"

Victoria shakes her head in dismay, rolling her eyes at him once more before giving Evelyn an apologetic look.

"Let me guess Eve, he let you carry him all the way here"

She returns her gaze back to Isaac who was now starting to unfold the leather binding to reveal it's contents, picking through the various items before placing a single page with a crest containing a circle and two ravens, upon the arm of the chair.

"Shame on you Isaac, you probably felt fine before you even left the docks and your certainly not dieing"

She watches him carefully as a slight frown begins to form on his face, clearly he was reading something within the notes.

"And how is it you came across Eve anyway"

She asked quizzically looking between the two of them.

 

[Olive Tome]

A surge of irritation coursed through her body s she watched Issac move perfectly irregularly for a man supposedly severely injured. He went to the chair she coveted for years but Victoria never allowed her the pleasure of sitting in. Her mouth gaped open slightly as she looked at Victoria, a mixture of anger and confusion on the young redhead's face. In return, Victoria shrugged. Then it hit Evelyn like a ton of bricks.

They must be together. Has to be the reason.

Instead of pushing the chair issue further and making a fool of herself, she listened to the two bicker about him making her carry him and all that. They did sound like a couple. “No need to fret he actually walked himself most of the way.” She looked over at Isaac who was currently reading a note with intense focus.

Who, or what are you?

“Us meeting is a long story,” Evelyn spoke softly as she watched Victoria grab tea cups from the cupboard, all antique and kept in pristine condition. “We both happened to just be hunting the same creature and both got possessive of the beast. Some more than others,” Evelyn shot him a look before returning her attention to Victoria as she was pouring tea into the cups on the table. The strong aroma coming from the tea had a calming effect on her.

The Huntress took a step closer to Victoria to close the distance, her mind trying to find the right words. “Vee, is there any updates about the cure?” Evelyn spoke quietly with pleading eyes to be met with sad brown eyes as Victoria just simply shook her head no. Evelyn’s shoulders slumped as she took a step back. Her father was starting to run out of time. A cure needed to be discovered faster but she knew Victoria was trying her hardest.

She rested her hand on her side and felt a hilt, looking down she saw Isaac’s sword held steady by her belt. “Oh,” Evelbegangun as she pulled out the sword and brought it over to Isaac. “I believe this belongs to you.” Yet, before he could take it she pulled it out of arm's length from him. "But first I want an explanation. What are you to be able to heal so fast?"

 

[Ninja]

Isaac eyed her closely the slight ridges of a frown deepening across his brow as he thought carefully through his many options, he could of course simply take the blade from the woman and reveal nothing yet there was something about her he admired. His head tilted slightly, glancing to Victoria behind her who was once more casting a warning glare towards him, he certainly knew the rules, hell the Order had made them abundantly clear, but, a smile began to emerge as he continued his thought, but then again obeying the rules was never his strong point.

"Very well"

He gave an apologetic look towards Victoria as she threw her hands up in dismay, before crossing her arms a look of deep concern across her face. Isaac placed down the leather bundle on the arm of the chair, being careful to keep the contents inside hidden before giving Evelyn one last cautious look.

"Be warned though for what you will see may disturb and upset you"

Isaac couldn't help but try to hide a small grin, clearly enjoying the moment before it was snatched from him by Victoria.

"Oh for heavens sake"

She quickly unfolded her arms, walked over and snatched the blade from Evelyn's hand.

"Sorry Eve I need to borrow this"

Isaac now slightly caught off guard began to hold up his hands a sudden realisation coming across him.

"Wait, Wait no Victoria"

It had taken only the briefest of moments for Victoria to snatch the blade and begin slicing it towards Isaac's chest in a single smooth motion.

"Isaac here has a taste for the theatrical my dear Eve"

She steps back having sliced open with almost surgical precision the entirety of Isaac's shirt, before flicking each side open to reveal his lean figure but more precisely the now pinkish marks of an apparently old wound where the wooden stake had impaled him.

"Did you have to ruin the scarf too"

Isaac held a small piece of the red satin scarf he had tucked inside the shirt, before giving Evelyn a little wink. Having satisfactorily ruined Isaac's little show Victoria now steps back past Evelyn, a slight look of shock or perhaps anger cover her face before whispering to her as she passed.

"I am so sorry Eve, we need to talk later, once he's told you everything"

Isaac watched her saunter off towards the laboratory, blade still in hand before he once more returned his gaze to Evelyn, her drying hair now appearing to glow a subtle amber under the light of the crackling log flames. He crosses his legs in a relaxed manner before lifting his hands one still holding the red scarf piece in an open palms out expression towards her, his face now seemingly questioning how she would respond.

"So I'm sure you have questions, ask away"

 

[Olive Tome]

Steel eyes sparked with interest at the extra caution Isaac out into keeping the contents hidden. Victoria and himself appeared to have a bunch of secrets. It was sad, as Evelyn used to consider Victoria rather open. That thought quickly disappeared as Victoria grabbed the blade from her hands and made quick work of Isaac’s shirt. Eyes widened as Evelyn watched how quickly it happened and how quickly Victoria disappeared. It certainly was not expected.

What also was unexpected was seeing Isaac shirtless - well, sort of shirtless. The lightly toned look of wearing the clothing only hide exactly how toned he was. Certainly, a man that kept his body in good condition except for the scars littering his chest and stomach but even Evelyn had plenty of scars as it practically came with the job. The red-haired woman focused on a rather large pink scar that was in the exact location of where Isaac was impaled. This was certainly could not be human. Human’s did not heal fast. Was he immortal?

He better not be immortal or else I should have made him do all the work.

Looking around the room, she then returned her attention to Isaac. Grey eyes stared into his. Something hid behind his eyes still and whatever it was would most certainly be a mystery for as long as Evelyn would probably know him. Keeping emotion from her face, Evelyn thought carefully before speaking. “All you did was showed your wounds t me. You never answered my question..."

"What are you to be able to heal so quickly?”

 

[Ninja]

The old leather creaked once more as Isaac leaned back his hands now folded in his lap, he looked her over once more this time with a more serious look as if trying to decide whether to trust her or not. Yet he could not shake the feeling that she had a familiarity about her, a passion and determination that some how felt comforting to him, perhaps a distant reminder from his previous life that he could not quite unlock from his mind. He sighed having finally reached a decision before raising from the chair and standing in front of her.

"Very well come with me"

He walks slowly past her to the large bookcase on the wall opposite the fire, as he does he gives a sideways glance at Victoria now leaning again a table in her lab her own eyes fixed on the two of them as they walked towards the wall of books. Isaac began to run his right hand along the rows of books, feeling the spines of each under his fingers as he did so he spoke to her over his shoulder.

"I want you to think back for a moment to nightmares you may have had"

His hand stopped as he continues to speak, grabbing the book gently, pulling it free before holding it in his right hand.

"The nightmares you had filled with demons and monsters of the darkness"

He did the same with his left hand, seemingly stopping at a random book to the left, pulling it free before turning to face Evelyn both still held in his hands.

"Creatures far worse than you know of, creatures like the Serpent tonight brought into this world not of flesh and blood but crafted from dark powerful magic"

He continued to look her in the eyes, trying to gauge her reactions as he leaned slightly to place the books down on the table top.

"You may of thought to yourself it was just your mind playing devious tricks upon you, especially in your line of work."

He now turned to face the book case once more, before slipping each of his gloves off, he pauses briefly before his final finger slips free making a final decision to commit to telling her the truth. A slight tug and the glove slides off, a darkened ring sat upon his finger, the skin dark and bruised around it. He leans over placing both of the gloves on top of the table next to the books, a slight sigh coming from him as he continues with his back to her.

"Those nightmares, they are real, all of them, every last one, they are warnings that the darkness is returning"

He steps forward, placing his now bare hands except for the ring into each of the holes created from removing the books, a slight grimace shoots across his face before he removes them, blood dripping from a deep gash under each palm. He leans back to the table as the sound of clicking begins to emanate from behind the wall, while the noises continue to build he begins to put on his gloves before turning to face her.

"Those creatures crafted from darkness, I am one of them, I am not immortal but I'm also not entirely alive either"

He watches her face closely searching for any signs that would give away her feelings yet at this moment she is hiding them very well, almost a blank stare coming from her as she soaks up everything he says, that is until the great bookcase wall behind him began to split open revealing a dimly lit stairwell behind.

"How far do you want to go Evelyn, if you step through that door you will be learning of a world beyond what you already know, how curious are you?"

 

[Olive Tome]

The Hunter, Isaac, had made it abundantly clear that he trusted her as he slowly stood for the ancient, forbidden-to-everyone-but-Isaac chair. The reason was unknown to Evelyn why he was inclined to tell her. Yet, she was glad that he did as she did not want to go to unpleasant means to obtain the information. It would have been tedious and quite infuriating for Victoria and Isaac to have knowledge in a forbidden area and not share it with her. Any facet of information could lead to a cure and that was something she would fight tooth and nail for. The pretty boy named Isaac would not get in her way of that.

With the slightest of head tilts, Evelyn watched Isaac pull books from the bookshelf before taking his gloves off and sticking several, but not all, of his fingers in the slots before coming out bloody. An elaborate scheme of sorts to keep something important hidden from the average curious person. At least, it appeared to be important if Victoria and himself would go through all the trouble to have this installed. Certainly, that peaked the young woman’s interest as he went on about monsters, darkness and nightmares. That the serpent was only the beginning of something more terrifying that he belonged too.

Isaac saying that he was one of them in front of a hunter was a bold move. He had saved her from the Serpent, so she would let that slide - for now.

However much he tried to scare her it was not enough to deter the red-haired huntress. No way could his little speech make her run off back home swearing to all the gods she would never hunt again. Too much was at stake for her to do that nor was she a weak-hearted lady that would pass out at the sight of a shirtless man let alone blood, guts and gore. They would be fanning themselves while leaning against a hunk of a man. Evelyn, she kept her emotions intact and away from showing. Confusion and curiosity were the two dominant ones, however.

“Well,” Evelyn began while running her hand across one of the books on the table. “I hope that is not how you typically go about courting young, vulnerable women, Isaac.” Her tone was light in comparison to her serious features. She stepped around the table before looking back up at him, searching to see any signs of him being a threat.

She saw none.

“If this is your attempt to get rid of me from the duty of hunting, your thoughts are unfortunately misplaced.” She ran her damaged fingers through her fiery hair as she thought about her friend Leslie. “A dear friend once told me that my family was always had an affinity and attraction to the darker aspects. So you cannot scare me.” Her toned, just for a moment, went dead serious.

Leather boots made soft steps on the wooden flooring as Evelyn made her way to the staircase. As Evelyn passed Isaac she stopped and looked at him. “The only nightmare I have is not of the darkness or the damned, but of the people I love going to the light.” A small, half smirk crossed her pale features before she took one last look at Victoria, who had a concerned look plastered on her face.

Evelyn sighed as she began to descend down the hidden staircase into what Isaac promised as a whole new world.

 

[Ninja]

His eyes narrow as he takes one last glance over to Victoria's now shaking head "does she not approve or is she afraid for this woman" he thinks to himself "but I believe this Evelyn to be precisely the tool I need to find the answers I seek". He turns heading into the passage before heading down the staircase just behind her, his eyes naturally following the flow of her hair until they rest gazing upon her pert buttocks. Although he certainly enjoyed the view he quickly found himself searching around for other things to focus his attention on, but the passage was narrow and the only thing lining the spiral staircase were the occasional alcoves with a single lantern hung inside.

The spiral staircase was long and dimly lit but as they reached the base stone steps became metal and it suddenly opened up into a grand study each wall brimming with books. Isaac stepped past her as the reached the bottom, tapping her on the shoulder as she stood looking around.

"This way"

He moved to the far end of the study, stepping under an archway with books lined above it as they continued their journey.

"This is partly Victoria's collection, her studies permitted"

He looks back at her over his shoulder, trailing off slightly as he continues to walk down the stone hallway before continuing.

"And yes before you ask, she is studying me or more precisely the powers that keeps me." he pauses for a second as he ponders the right words. "Shall we say anchored in this world."

He reaches a corner before stopping just before it, turning to face Evelyn once more as he holds a hand up to stop her.

"Look, I may not of been entirely truthful with you earlier when I implied I wasn't human"

His hand now raised to his chin, stroking the stubble there briefly before continuing.

"I am or at least I was human long ago, about 200 years ago to be precise"

He tilts his head a little trying to read her face again, a slight frown as he once more finds her keeping her true feelings remarkably well hidden.

"For whatever reason I was chosen to be brought back from the dead, using a device capturing the power of a god"

Isaac lowered his hand, a finger, the same one the ring sat upon now nestled under his glove, pointing to his own chest as a grin spreads across his face.

"I am the very definition of a dead man walking"

He turns his head slightly as if listening out for any noise further down and around the corner before turning his gaze back to Evelyn

"Tell me Evelyn, how much if anything do you know of the Order of Vali?"

 

[Olive Tome]

Eyes scanned the immense amount of shelves that were apparently dedicated to Victoria’s study. Evelyn had always wondered where the scientist kept all of her books that were not currently being in use. Hell, would not be too much of a surprise if some of the library books were stashed away in there as well. The pleasure of viewing the marvellous spectacle of a private library fell short as a light tap on the shoulder diverged her attention to Isaac.

With a small pout, she followed as he went on. One could almost say Evelyn was starting to zone out until she heard the man was two-hundred years old. Before she could get a word in edgewise he went on. Isaac started to talk about not being a creature of nightmareish origins and just a dead man brought back to life. Figures the bloke would change his story once he is not trying to scare me away.

Once he mentioned the Order of Vali, Evelyn looked upwards concentrating on the name. It had sounded familiar except it was in the voice of Leslie and kind words have not been used in regards to the Order. A ‘bunch of no-good pricks that go around masquerading as good, helpful souls when they are controlling backstabbers.’ Evelyn did not care enough to ask Leslie more about the order as his face was usually pink in anger and she did not want to cause the man any more strife by mentioning it. Yet, it could have been useful right now to know exactly what they were. However, Evelyn was going to keep it to herself whatever little bit of information Leslie gave the Order of Vali as she had no idea if this man was a friend or foe of the Order.

“Alas, I have seldom ever heard of the Order of… Vali, you say?” She gave him a little coy smile before letting her eyes travelling down to his hands and then to the ring. Something spoke volumes about the ring, but the redhead could not put a finger on it. Possibly enchanted or a family heirloom.

“Now, Mr.Harker,” she began slowly as she tried to find the right way of putting it. “ I believe it is about time you stop giving information like it is bread crumbs. What is the Order of Vali and why did you feel the need to divulge this information to me?” Her hand went up to her chest. “A person you met only a few hours ago.”

 

[Ninja]

Stretching out his arm he leaned against the wall with one hand while scratching the stubble on his cheeks with his other.

"You know Miss Evelyn you really are quite a challenge to read but not impossible"

He leaned back against the wall, folding his arms whilst a more serious expression spreads across his face.

"What makes you think I trust you? Sure I've told you a few odd bits and pieces but then you did steal those gold coins I paid you to walk away"

He tilts his head his eyes wandering down to one of her pockets where he'd seen her earlier stash the coins.

"Let me ask you a question, why did you come down here why trust that this was not some elaborate trap. Was it curiosity I wonder"

His eyes appear for just a moment to stare through her as he drifts into a deep thought before his eye fix back upon her.

"Perhaps you are expecting some reward"

He pauses, again thinking through his words before continuing.

"No, there is something more to it, something your fighting for perhaps and since you considered taking the gold it could lead me to believe that ridding the world of evil is less valuable to you than those coins. But I suspect that not to be entirely the case, am I right?"

 

[Olive Tome]

Thin hands balled up tightly as she listened to the man in front of her go on insulting her while in her presence. A thief of the money he willingly gave her. Soft in the head for following him down the stairs. The worst of them all, though, was suggesting she was greedy. Isaac’s words hit her like a sharp edge, and her eyes and mouth twitched slightly as she attempted to stay cool. However, that was not going to last.

“How dare you,” Evelyn began as she huffed and looked around in a fit of rage before focusing her grey eyes back on him like daggers.

“I do not trust you, Mr.Harker. I came down here because I trusted Victoria,” Evelyn roughly moved some of her tangled red hair out of her face. “But seeing as you probably have her wrapped around your finger I should have known better. That I can admit is my mistake.”

For a moment, Evelyn went dead quiet as she stared down at her feet thinking of everything that he said. It only served to make her even angrier. “Yes, I am greedy. I care only about the coin because for me to help the person I care about the most I need the bloody money.” The Huntress spat out while taking another deep breath. “Ridding the world of evil would not save them, and humans can be just as evil as the demons in the Bible. Who gets to choose what is good or evil? You? No, you take your bloody orders from higher ups who make all the decisions for you!”

Now Evelyn began to pace, a mixture of anger and a sneer on her face. “Many people have fought wars to rid evil, but only the innocent died. You are no better than me so stop judging. I could have left you in the rubble to be eaten by the Serpent, I didn’t have to take you to Victoria’s, and I certainly could have left with both your money and sword!”

In a few short steps, she was practically in Isaac’s face now, shaking her head ever so slightly. “You are right. Probably a bad idea for me to follow you down here. Goodbye, Mr.Harker.” As quickly as she was in his face Evelyn turned on her heels and walked quickly away from him.

Before she could get too far, she stopped and turned one last time to face Isaac. Her hand reached into her pocket and pulled out the small coin purse, kneading it in her hand for a second. “Take the bloody thing,” She tossed the coin purse roughly at Isaac before turning to leave.

 

[Ninja]

Anger is a strong emotion, it can be used as a weapon yielded against those that forged the anger in the first place but with the right application your own anger can be used against you. This Isaac knew well, he had know it for as long as he could remember perhaps even in his previous life and he had used it on Evelyn to great effect and yet he could not help but feel a sudden regret for using it on her.

His hand reacted quickly to grab the coin purse she tosses towards him before she turns and begins to head away, he shuffles it in his hand before looking back towards her. A sudden inescapable feeling of annoyance at having pushed her to reveal her true feelings, washed over him like a tide.

"Wait!" He yells down the corridor at her.

"I needed to know I could trust you, I see now that I was wrong to doubt you on that"

He tips the coin purse slightly, playing with it in his finger tips as he does so.

"Evelyn I need your help"

His eyes focus as she continues to walk, he grits his teeth before letting out a slight sigh.

"I can help you with your father"

 

[Olive Tome]

Stopping dead in her tracks, Evelyn’s breath hitched. Could Isaac really help her with finding a cure for her father? Slowly, she turned to face him to see the look on his face. The Hunter did look serious so he was not toying with her, to her knowledge anyway. Although, she did wonder how he knew about her father as she did try to not let it slip that it was her father.

“You can?” Evelyn spoke as she walked back over to her not really knowing how to think or feel about what he said. “How did you know it was my father? I never said it was my father.”

No sense of looking a gift horse in the mouth.

She glanced around once more before shaking her head. “It does not matter as long as you can help. No choice but to trust you there. You said you needed my help." She licked her dried lips while thinking of the right words. "If I am to help you, I think I would be of must use if I knew what you needed help with."

 

[Ninja]

Isaacs mouth opened to speak but as he did so the sound of steam chugging suddenly appeared building until it became a thunderous noise quickly followed by metal screaching on metal, the symphany of sound finally brought to an end with a single slow fading hiss.

"I believe I can help and I will tell you everything but first we have a ride to catch"

He turns subtly placing the coin purse in his left coat pocket before disappearing around the corner.

"Come on or we'll be late Evelyn."

He shouts from around the corner, his voice beginning to fade as he continued to move further away. Isaac stepped out from the passage into the much larger hall, the ceiling several floors above curved from the four corners into a central high spot where a chandalier of glistening gold and crystal hung directly below a small hole. Light passing down the hole as a beam amplified and spread filling the hall with a golden glow yet a monsterous machine sat within a trench along the centre seemed to draw all to it's attention.

Isaac was always impressed by the complex creation that others refered to as an engine, to him it seemed alive with unwielding power and complexity. It's forged tubular metal body fed by steam pulsing through its complex vein like pipes, each one seemed to cling to it's surface like a golden lattice weaving their complex pattern towards the creatures muscles. Two large pistons sprang from it's sides each one pushing back towards the mighty spindled wheels on each side, their powerful action pushing and pulling beating all force into submission to move the thing along.

While the engine was dark and menacing however the large carriage it pulled was positively beautiful and luxurious in every way. It's red wooden panels wrapped up towards the roof there straight edges only broken by the ocassional golden brace that ran the lengths of the carriage. Two large glass windows sat along the platform facing side, a soft golden glow eminatinf from the inside.

Isaac's attention however was on a tall figure stood in the enclosed metal box behind the still hissing engine. He watched as he began stepping down onto the marble platform before setting up the easel and canvas tucked under his arm. Odeth never failed to bring a smile to Isaac, the mans face appeared covered in a thick lush white beard that gave him a neanderthal type appearance. Isaac had never been sure of the mans appearance, he seemed to bare resemblance to both an ape and human at the same time with a gruff looking face that seemed to lack all emotion. Yet he adored him all the same.

"Aaah Odeth my good man, all is well I hope"

Odeth with paint brush now in hand leaned out from the side of the canvas, his deep socketed eyes focusing upon him.

"You are late as always"

"Ooh come now Odeth and here I was thinking I was your only passenger"

Isaac glanced back to the passageway looking for Evelyn before returning his attention back towards Odeth.

"Which reminds me, we may have a guest"

 

[Olive Tome]

A simple word can change the entire outcome of a sentence. A prime example had just happened in Evelyn’s eyes. First, in an assumed act of desperation, Isaac said he could help with her father. Now the words I believe were added and it destroyed the confidence of the first statement. Evelyn caught onto that and a subtle frown showed her displeasure. A part of her regretted the idea of staying but curiosity got the better of her.

Especially when Isaac began to rush off around several corners screaming that they would be late. That certainly sparked confusion and peaked the redhead's curiosity. “Pardon?” Evelyn asked as she heard his voice slowly disappear into the distance before following.

The stairs and hallways earlier had given off a more medieval vibe, if it were a painting it would have been considered baroque-esque. All that stood as a contrast to the luxurious detailing and style the halls took as she made her way further. Gold accented colours and chandeliers that gave better light than before. It would have been a wonder to adore the features longer if Evelyn had not been trying to keep up with Isaac. Each time Evelyn found him he had just rounded another corner and became near impossible to keep up to the point of frustration. Thankfully, not too long after Evelyn started to hear Isaac’s voice again

Except for this time, it sounded as if he was not talking to her. There was someone else down here beside her and Isaac.

It worried her a slight, but only for a moment as by further inspection it would appear the conversation was friendly...ish. Isaac sounded as if he was speaking to an old friend but the man who Isaac referred to as Odeth seemed harsh and prickly when he did speak. Which was not much. Alas, the matter of meeting this man could not be avoided. Evelyn rounded the final corner and glanced over at the pair. The painter looked like he was living down here for as long as Evelyn could imagine. Long, unkempt white beard, beady eyes and what appeared to be a permanent frown on his face.

Evelyn gave a quick look at Isaac before returning her gaze to the artist. “My name is Evelyn. It is nice to meet you, sir.”

Odeth did not even put down his brush or take his eyes off the easel in front of him. Almost as if he did not hear her. Yet, before Evelyn went to speak again he interrupted. “Late.”

Um, excuse me?” Evelyn could not help but smirk slightly out of confusion. Did he just say late?

“What you are is late,” mumbled Odeth as he kept painting. Then he sighed heavily, “get on board, I’ll be there in a minute. No rush seeing as you two already late.” He spoke in a low tone as his hand moved in methodical strokes with the steadiest of hands; each stroke had intent behind it.

Grey eyes focused on the red, wooden carriage the steam engine appeared to be pulling. Seemed if Evelyn wanted answers she would have to go for a little trip. Hopefully, she would be back before her father grew too worried about her absence. Slowly, Evelyn made her way to the carriage and made her way inside, not even bothering to check to see if Isaac was following as he did not need to be watched. Surely, if the outside was magnificent it was nothing in comparison to the interior. Lush reds were used as the main theme for the inside. Glass windows to look out of, a small fireplace tucked into the corner for extra warmth, a desk with paper littered on top of it along with a bookcase. Other stuff populated the large cabin but Evelyn had tunnel vision just from the sensory overload of everything that had been happening.

“Remarkable,” Evelyn breathed out to no one in particular.

 

[Ninja]

Isaac stepped onto the carriage following her on, immediately he slipped his leather coat off before hanging it on the rack just behind Evelyn. He looked at her with a grin spread across his face before spreading his arms as if to encompass the whole of the carriage.

"Welcome to my humble abode"

He gestures to the soft looking couch sitting lengthways along one side of the carriage.

"Please, make yourself comfortable, I have a shirt to change"

He moves towards the back of the carriage pulling open a curtain briefly to reveal a large bed set aside a grand wardrobe each one snuggly fitted almost as one into the luxury space provided. He pointed over to a drinks cabinet in the corner before beginning to slip off the remnants of his shirt.

"Would you care for a drink Evelyn, you look a little parched"

He gives her a little grin before disappearing behind the now pulled curtain, before his head briefly reappeared.

"And if the lady pleases make mine a brandy"

He vanishes back behind the curtain the sound of rustling from behind as he continued.

"So tell me Evelyn, why would the Order, one of the greatest powers against evil"

He pauses for just a moment, finding himself suddenly fully focused on undoing a particularly stubborn button, before finally and upon success, continuing.

"Have a keen interest in your family?"