The Joker and the Thief in the night

[Olive Tome]

Pursing her lips, Evelyn did not like him not telling her what was in the bag. She wanted to find out, but now and not later. Yet, he did not leave time for her to fight back. Instead, he made his way towards the door, giving his farewells to the shop owner. Evelyn followed closely, still disliking the fact he held the door open for her. Not that she hated gentlemanly acts. In fact, she loved the one where the men buy the food and alcohol. However, the rest just seemed to treat women as dainty. Evelyn had proven she was anything but dainty. Maybe not as skilled as Isaac was in battle as she needed to be saved a few times, but she was hardy and had a bloodlust that a soldier could respect.

The streets were still just as crowded as ever, yet no one else mattered as Evelyn zoned in on what Isaac was doing as it was suspicious. He was looking at the rooftops and had brief looks of nervousness. That was noted and from then on her eyes too kept glancing at the roofs. Were they being followed?

Not much time to consider the thought as a beautiful red carriage stopped beside them. It caught Evelyn off guard slightly and she became tense for a split second. Then relaxed as Odeth peered towards them. Isaac, much to her disliking, opened the carriage door for her and beckoned her inside.With a sigh, she stepped in, needing to lift up the sides of her dress in fear of tripping. The inside matched the outside well. Red cushions that felt soft to the touch with gold detailing to help the red stand out more. As much as it looked wonderful to Evelyn, she wished it was silver instead of gold. It would have matched the dark red better in her opinion.

Once inside she waited for ISaac to enter and close the door. “Where are we going now, ISaac?” She asked but already suspected he would be just as vague as earlier.

 

[Ninja]

Isaac stepped up slowly, his head scanning around slowly before closing the door behind him, moving past Evelyn he dropped the bag on the seat opposite her before sitting beside it closer to the side window. He pulled the curtain shut across the window, holding an edge open to peep through, his hand tapping on the woodwork behind him as seconds later the carriage began to move.
"We are going somewhere safe, somewhere we can't be touched."
Isaac sat back letting the curtain settle across the window, he could see the tell tale lines beginning to form on Evelyn's brow as he made himself comfortable, his feet coming up to rest on the cushion beside her.
"Besides you wouldn't believe me even if I did tell you, hey look relax think of it as an adventure."
He smiled at her for a moment before he noticed the lack of a return gesture. He frowned before a little spark of a memory entered his mind.
"Actually that reminds me, I have a gift for you."
He reached into his coat pocket removing first, the leather bound note bundle which he placed on top of the bag. He glanced to Evelyn's eyes watching them follow the note bundle as his hand returned to his pocket, this time a large rectangular ivory case returned in his hand. The surface of the case was covered in small intricate rune engravings, each appearing to overlap the next as they covered the entire case. He held it in one hand, it's length far wider than even his large hands as he leant forward towards her, his fingers slowly flipping back the case to reveal it's contents hidden inside.

There inside, sat upon a sea of silk padding lay a large Egyptian styled necklace in the shape of a flattened V, Jewel's sat upon polished silver, all glistening under the slowly swaying light of the carriage lantern. Light reflecting up into Evelyn's face and eyes like twinkling stars, yet all of many assortments of jewels set upon the necklace paled in comparison to beauty of the scarab shaped red gem, set upon the centre.
For a moment the jewel appeared to glow as if emitting it's own radiance, but this could easily have been a trick of the light as the lantern rocked back and forth.
"For you, the perfect gift to finish the perfect look."
Isaac grinned waiting for Evelyn's eyes to stop gazing upon the shining jewels, their twinkling no doubt mesmerising.
"Oh and there's one more thing..." Isaac grinned inside as he paused for effect. "Vee say's hello."

 

[Olive Tome]

Eyes lit up as the box opened in Isaac’s hands to show off a beautiful necklace. One that must have costed thousands. Leaning forward, those same eyes focused on the red jewel that was clearly inspired by Egypt from what little she knew about their style. It reminded her of the items Leslie collected from the region. It shined like a star that did not lose it’s glistening colour even as her hand reached out and grabbed it gingerly with her left hand and then leaned back in her seat. “Oh, wow.” Her voice low as she inspected the necklace further with keen eyes, twirling it around her finger to look both front and back of the piece of jewelry.

Her right hand reached up and pulled of her ginger hair to one side before wrapping the necklace around her neck. A smile came to be as Isaac mentioned Victoria. He must have seen her during the time he was gone. Evelyn hoped to see Vee sometime in the near future.

Adjusting the necklace, Evelyn finally felt like she had it on right. Her smile grey, happy with the results. Her look was complete. "Thank you, Mr.Harker."

Then, her eyes glanced towards the leather note but only for the briefest of seconds before looking at her feet. Isaac seemed to be a capable hunter, but how did his reflexes compare to her own? An important question if they were to work together more often as the case seemed to be. That was when she put weight on her feet, lifted by the knees and stretched quickly over to the leather bound note and swiped it with her left hand before returning to her starting position.

He did not even move a muscle, only smiled. That irked her. Why just let her take it? Evelyn opened it and peered inside to see what sort of trick he pulled on her this time.

 

[Ninja]

Within the neatly wrapped leather bundle was a letter, or at least it appeared to be a letter. A folded piece of paper stamped and sealed closed with a wax stamp, the emblem of the Order clearly marked. Yet as Isaac already suspected it would do Evelyn, nor anyone else for that matter, any good to open it for all they would find was a page filled with tiny bumps. To anyone they would be nothing but a curious mystery, to Evelyn they were likely a serious annoyance, a message before her very eyes that she could not read.
Yes that brought much pleasure to Isaac.

Equally though there was something else sealed within the leather bundle, a large old photograph that he very much wanted Evelyn to see. Day's earlier when he had spoken to Odeth and had the man run many errands and messages to Victoria, he had requested a special favour of the man. He knew it would be something suitably fit for his very interesting expertise, and so the man had set about researching Evelyn's family and the many she had introduced as Lesley. Odeth had eventually found what Isaac had already begun to suspect, the Order had been watching her family very closely., and while Isaac had not yet seen the photo she now held, he could only assume it was one of Lesley and perhaps her father also.

Isaac could see a look of sudden shock across Evelyn's face, her eyes slowly becoming fixed on him no doubt seeking answers.
"I have not yet seen what it is you are holding there, but I can guess that it is related to Lesley and perhaps your father."
His leather clad hand came up to rub the first onset of stubble on his face as the carriage rocked slightly around a small turn.
"I had a hunch, so I had Odeth do some digging in the archives, I don't suppose you would know why the Order have such an interest in your family..."
He paused, his own eyes reflecting her questioning look.
"Would you?"
An awkward silence fell for a moment, the sound of horse hooves beating the ground, the creaking of the carriage springs as the wheels rode the cobbled streets.

 

[Olive Tome]

The bump-filled note in her end enraged Evelyn beyond belief. So many secrets this man had. Too many. He was leading her on a blind adventure while keeping secrets from her. She trusted he was not the enemy, but did he have her best interests at heart, or just his own? Evelyn needed to continue making money to help care for her papa. Yet, since the serpent disaster, she hadn’t made a cent towards that goal. Why would this man care anyhow? Nor should he.

He will not lift a finger to save you.

Her eyes hardened at the thought as she put the secret note aside and took out the next item. Her fingers shook upon seeing it. Leslie with a man 5 inches taller than him and built like a mountain. Her Grandfather, Hans. Her eyes met Isaac’s once more, her lips tight. “My grandfather Hans. Looks like it was from around five years ago.” Which would make it two years before his death, Evelyn added in her mind. She glanced down at the picture, he did look like the spitting image of her father just slightly shorter and more muscular. Evelyn used to always complain about being the short, thin one of the bunch. Bigger muscles than most women that were considered beautiful or acceptable for society but smaller to the hunters.

At the question of Evelyn knowing why the order would want with her family, she looked up. His pushing of “would you” made her eyes narrow. He did not trust her. Did he think she knew and would keep it hidden from him? Leslie may know of and hate the Order but not insane enough to do anything about them or bring her family into the crosshairs. “I do not know, Mr.Harker, and any more instance that I may know is but fruitless and insulting of my character.” She sat back, just when she thought he would be a good partner.

“Perhaps you should have used your resources to find the reasoning as to why if you are curious.”

 

[Ninja]

A flash of anger came over Isaac for just a moment, his hand lifting to hammer on the back wall behind him causing the carriage to slow quickly before coming to a full stop. His eyes narrowed as he leaned over, pushing open the carriage door closest to Evelyn, before sitting back.
"If you do not trust me, if you for one moment do not believe that I would not or have not been doing everything in my power to bring those to justice who attacked us then please, by all means leave..." He held a hand out to the open carriage door, the rain once more beginning to fall on the now gloomy street outside.

"Of course if you do so, then you'll be on your own, against those that I am now convinced would wish to see you and your family dead."
He looked away from her for a moment as she glanced towards the open door, he stared forward cooling his complexion before continuing.
"Someone in the council wanted us to meet, or worse wanted us to die together, perhaps killing two birds with one stone as it were."

He leaned forward towards her, the rain still pounding outside.
"And whoever they are, they are powerful enough to be able to undo a thousand years of control over the guardian golems, that kind of magic should be locked away millennia ago."
He pointed to the door once more, though his composure now seemed less aggressive.
"Out there someone wants you or me dead of that we can be sure, all I am looking for is the truth Evelyn, I do not know if your father or uncle are indeed linked somehow but it was a lead I had to follow, yet that picture shows that the Order had some interest where there should be none."

He leaned back once more, one hand rubbing at the stubble around his chin.
"Make your choice, but if you stay we must trust each other and if we cant, then perhaps this is where we must part ways."

 

[Olive Tome]

Evelyn stared out the open carriage door as she listened to the ranting of Isaac about her actions and words. The entire time Evelyn had difficulty holding her tongue and soon could feel her face heat up. How dare he, of all people, accuse her of not being trusting while claiming innocents by investigating all leads. The man with the secret messages to an unknown person. The man who was part of a secret Order. The man trying to claim that what he was doing was protecting them. As she stared out into the gloom and rain of the streets of London, her lip curled. Seemed as if they would need to hammer out these problems now rather than later.

“Trust each other, coming from the man with an obvious secret letter,” she held up the blank piece of paper between her index and middle finger, held in front of her for him to see. “Which I willingly turned a blind eye to.” In reality, she did not care for what it says, but the fact it was so secret was a warning sign. “You blame me for not trusting when I have. This entire time. I followed you into the tunnels below Victoria’s house and onto a train. I trusted you as that train took us towards the Order that I knew nothing of. I trusted you enough to allow you to Leslie’s house.”

A small paused as just now the redhead looked over at him. Her eyes narrowed. “You did not do this out of justice like you claimed. No, you are doing this because you are searching for answers. You said as much on the train ride. To get those answers you felt like you needed me and I followed. You finding the person who wants us dead is only added because I assume you think this person holds those answers - or,” her eyes flicked upwards, deep in thought. “They stood in the way of your answers, thus you know you need to get past them if not eliminate them.”

Placing the letter back in the leather note bundle, her other hand stretched and closed the door closest to her that was open. A small smirk on her face, feeling confident that her observations were correct. Evelyn may not have been the most experienced of fighters or hunters, but she was observant and she was confident in her assessment even with the lack of a formal education.

“Now, we do not wish to be late, do we?”

 

[Ninja]

A single tap of his knuckles against the back board and the carriage was moving once more, the slow swaying beginning to form a gentle rhythm as the horses picked up speed.
"You seem to believe the letter is secretive to prevent you from reading it and not for our own protection should it of fallen into the wrong hands." Isaac leaned back in his seat enjoying the relaxing motion of the gentle sway.
"You assume that I would not tell you what contents it contains before I have had a chance to read it myself, intriguing."

He leaned forward once more, his eyes opening slowly to settle upon Evelyn, his hand reached out to take the letter from her.
"And how am I to bring justice to those who need it without answers to the questions all around us. Why were we attacked, who had access to my mission against the Serpent and who has dispatched an assassin to trail us."

He sat back opening the letter as he did so he also removed the leather glove from one of his hands, before gradually running it across the small bumps on the paper. His eyes closed, his lips subtly moving as if reading out the letter to himself as he reached the end he lay the page down a sombre look across his face.
"We are indeed being hunted as I feared by an Agent of the Order, a man with a somewhat questionable reputation."
Isaac slowly began to put the glove back on before his foot spread out and gently pushed Evelyn's to one side a look of surprise on her face as he continued.
"The council is in disarray, assets have been dispatched without the overall council vote, for whatever reason there would appear to be somewhat of a coup d'état in progress."
Isaac bent over slightly from his seated position before lifting the rug from the end closest to him and flicking it over towards the door he had just opened, it folded over before settling to reveal a small hatch in the floor of the carriage.
"From the sounds of it the changes are subtle, and nobody know's who the players are." He looked up towards her as he flicked the catch on the locked hatch. "And I tell you all of this because contrary to your belief and for reasons I have not yet full fathomed I do in fact trust you."

Isaac heaved on the heavy hatch door, pulling it back to reveal a gusting rush of air as the ground below rushed by., he continued to watch as slowly the carriage began to slow under one of the old rail tunnels, before a small metal hatch appeared on the ground below. Within seconds as the carriage stopped directly above, the hatch began to lift before slowly sliding back, the orange glow of a lantern shifting briefly to reveal a soft female face.
"What took you so bloody long, you know how much I hate these damn tunnels."
Isaac gave Victoria a soft smile before glancing back to Evelyn.
"We had a few things we needed to work out." He passed a few items down to Victoria who promptly vanished back into the darkness of the hole before Isaac, made a point of going first.
He climbed quickly into the hole giving her one last glance as he passed.
"If you are coming Evelyn I suggest you make haste our cover will last only a few minutes."
With that he too vanished into the dark depths below.

 

[Olive Tome]

Evelyn huffed as Isaac went on about her pursuing the already read the letter. Of course, she would. With very little knowledge to work with, she had to make assumptions. Yet, when he did tell her, probably more out of disproving his distrust than actually wanting to tell her, she flared up more.

Before she could get a word in edgewise, she stopped. Confused as to what he had said. Disarray. A coup d'état. Evelyn had no understanding of these words and was left at a loss. Cheeks flushed red as she looked away from him, too embarrassed to ask what they mean. Damn, arrogant rich people. Her lack of a formal education robbed her of the meaning of such words that were fanciful and full of lost meaning. The redhead tried to learn as much vocabulary as possible. However, it was difficult without a proper teacher and having to juggle German at home and English everywhere else. Evelyn was just thankful she never picked up her father’s accent unless she was speaking German.

Isaac moved her legs with his own and she looked back over at him startled and then narrowed her eyes before watching him lift a latch. Her head tilted ever so slightly as the carriage stopped and yet another opening revealed Victoria down below. She and Isaac exchanged glances as he mentioned they had to straighten things out. The huntress stayed silent at the comment and watched as he climbed into the hole. Evelyn followed shortly behind him, even if he told her to make haste. She was going as fast as he was, and as she reached the bottom, she had to make sure the heel connected with the ground. It was hard to climb in heels.

Already, Vee was upon her with curious eyes. “What happened?” She asked as they began to walk down the tunnel Vee seemed to despise.

Evelyn kept looking straight. “It does not matter, but try to keep your boyfriend under control.” Vee looked over and glared, Evelyn only smiled slightly. “It was a joke, Victoria.”

 

[Ninja]

He moved carefully but swiftly down the small tunnel, his head ducked slightly, the small swaying lantern he now carried casting a dim orange glow before quickly fading to the black depths ahead. They walked this way for several minutes, in silence, Victorian seemingly angered at something that Isaac had not yet had the pleasure of discovering yet he had other things to consider as they continued their journey.
'Why is Evelyn involved, the Order or at least someone in the Order clearly knew she would be present that night with the Serpent' He glanced behind briefly, the light shining across his face as his eyes caught those of Evelyn just behind, he returned his gaze forward before continuing his thoughts.
'Someone had been careful to cover their tracks well, to bring the two of them together, perhaps to help each other, or to die together.' His eyes wandered to the flickering lantern flame, a faint breeze from somewhere ahead causing the subtle shift.
'And the Golem, protectorate of the tunnels for thousands of years, to control them in such a way would require.' Isaac paused in his own thought's unsure of what actually would be needed to do such a feat.
'Whatever it is, it can not be a good thing.'

A noise began to build as they continued, the breeze becoming stronger as the sound of rushing water could be heard. Victoria shoved past Isaac, her lantern swaying hard as she forged ahead of the pair, he turned to look at Evelyn giving her a questioning look but getting nothing back in return. He turned back as the tunnel finally ended, opening up into a cavernous vertical shaft. Stepping out of the tunnel he followed Victoria on to the stone walkway set to one side, tunnels like theirs dotted all around the large cylinder, each with water flowing out and down into the blackness below.
Victoria turned her lantern against the wall, her hand pushing hard again stones that seemed to give under her force, her hand moving in seemingly random patterns before a loud grinding sound could be heard. The sound grew as if emanating from the walls themselves, gears clicking into place, huge mechanical machines, silent and forgotten now called upon once more. Isaac frowned as he turned back towards Evelyn as he noticed where she was stood. He moved swiftly towards her, leaning in as a large rush of air started to flow from the tunnel. Evelyn was still stood within it, having paused at the exit. He quickly placed his hand on her wrist pulling her forward towards him and onto the platform, seconds later a roaring jet of water began to pour from the tunnel, adding it's own contents to the darkness below.

Isaac stepped behind her, making sure she was steady on her feet as the floor began to shift, slowly at first before the section furthest from them began to fall away downwards. Steps began to form as more stones began to emerge from the walls just above the steps, deflecting the falling water over the spiral staircase as it formed. Victoria wasted no time, she began to walk downwards, Isaac giving Evelyn a little nudge from behind.

"Are you okay" He asked sincerely. "Try not to look down." He nodded over the railing into the inky blackness below. "Long way down to the bottom, just stick to the sides."

 

[Olive Tome]

Evelyn followed behind everyone, keeping close yet wanting time to think. Little less than a week and everything had appeared to be going downwards into an ominous end. The question that plagued the young woman’s mind was how, of all people, she was involved in an ORder she never knew existed. Someone wanted her dead if not worse, and they were both too cowardly to face her and keeping tabs on them somehow. How were the mysterious person or persons knowing where they would be? That was the question on her mind as she stopped to look down a dark tunnel. What had she gotten herself into?

Pressure around her wrist, brought the redhead out of her thoughts just as water rushed passed her. Isaac had pulled her out of danger's way and Evelyn could not help but feel embarrassed at the need for help. Grey eyes watched the water pass by before focusing on Vee descending stairs. A small nudge behind her made Evelyn start walking briskly after Victoria. “I am fine, Isaac,” she spoke as she looked over the very ledge he told her not to look down. Yet, the sight did not scare her as she stayed safely away.

Many questions littered her mind, yet she kept them all to herself. It was not the time to ask questions and would feel embarrassed if she should already know the answer to any of them. Might as well wait.

Victoria stopped at yet another wall as she began to once again push roughly against several rocks to what was presumably another secret passage. Evelyn used a finger to mimic Vee’s motions, trying to memorize a pattern she herself would probably never use. The door opened and soon they were in a tight, rocky corridor with only enough room to move in a single line. Small drops of water and the sound of their own footsteps echoed down the corridor before coming before a locked, heavy steel door. “We are here,” Victoria spoke.

 

[Ninja]

The door was truly magnificent to set eyes upon, it's heavy metal frame engraved with intricate runes, some of which Isaac recognised yet most were of a more ancient design. He stepped forward as Victoria held up the lantern, the orange glow hiding the true green tint of the metal work. Isaac held out his fist to knock but paused briefly to glance at Evelyn. "Let's see who's home shall we."
"For heavens sake Isaac, must you always be so dramatic." Victoria said before barging past him and knocking on the door herself, the metal rang loudly as she tapped twice followed by three rapid knocks.
"Must you always spoil all my fun."
"Yes, I must now hold the lantern and carry your own damn clothes." She pushed the satchel into his hands before also thrusting the lantern into them. No sooner had she done this the door slowly began to open, it's hinges groaning and creaking under the weight of the door, the light from inside began to slice into the tunnel casting all three of them in a brightness.

To the casual observer, the man in the doorway would of looked exactly like Odeth who had dropped them off by carriage to the tunnels, those observers would be right, mostly. Isaac nodded to the man as he stepped inside, following Victoria into the well lit room.
"Thank you Odeth I am glad to see you escaped the tunnels unharmed, I trust you were able to salvage what you could of the train old friend."
"huh, not much, saved what could be saved." The man said in a gruff voice, his eyes slowly falling upon Evelyn before turning to move inside.
Isaac stepped back towards Evelyn, lowering his voice as he leaned towards her.
"He's an Imitor, I'm not actually sure how many copies of himself exist, but I can tell them apart, mostly." Isaac nodded towards the man as he began painting in the far end of the large circular room.
"It's the subtle colour of his hair and clothes you see, slight tint gives it away. Anyway best not to stare too much."
Isaac stepped back inside, allowing Evelyn to follow before pushing the large door closed behind her.

The walls were ancient stone, each glossy brick carved with it's own intricate pattern of runes, this gave the entirety of the walls a textured effect that seemed to glisten as the many candles and lantern flames flickered. Around the edge of the large circular room lay a ladder leading up to a catwalk running around the upper edge, several doors and passages could be seen leading away from it. Isaac moved towards the centre where a large table stood, around it several chairs with one in particular having a man sat his eyes a cloudy white, almost as white as the well groomed beard hanging below his chin.
"Evelyn may I present to you, Sun Chi, one of the nine members of the Order of Vali council." Isaac held a hand out to Evelyn as if to gesture her to move closer.
"And my mentor."

Sun Chi slid the chair back slowly, standing before holding a hand out to the other side of the table.
"Please Miss Evelyn, take a seat, I have heard much about you."
"No, absolutely not." Victoria stepped out of a room onto the catwalk above, leaning over the railing as she spoke with a demanding posture.
"I'm sure she is tired, and I have prepared her room, for heavens sake let the poor girl relax before you speak to her."
Isaac winced at Victoria's tone, 'She never did respect the council's will much' he thought to himself, 'But then again neither did he, yet his mentor was a different matter altogether.'

Sun Chi remained standing, his demeanour unchanged nor a single flicker of emotion across his face as he spoke with a calm relaxing voice.
"You are right Victoria." His endless gaze remained fixed forward, his eyes neither blinking or moving. "Please show her to her room, have her relax and then we will speak." He sat down calmly, the imperial silk robe rustling the only sound he made.

Isaac glanced towards Evelyn, his eyes rolling towards Victoria in a sideways glance.
"I guess we'll talk later then." He turned glancing up towards Victoria who gave him a polite smile before Isaac vanished off into one of the small corridors leading away.

 

[Olive Tome]

Blinking around the surprisingly massive room, Evelyn could not help but try to imagine exactly how this place was made and how long ago. It was impressive, to say the least. There was no room for admiring, however, as her attention was stolen and focused on Odeth. More importantly, what Isaac said about him. An Imitor. Odeth was an Imitor. There was confusion in her mind about what that was until Isaac clarified by saying copies. Which slightly alleviated any confusion she had for the time being as she focused on Odeth painting from across the room. The redhead wondered what he was painting before getting more lost in thought.

Why is this man around Isaac so much? Maybe friends? No, that cannot be it. A spy perhaps or an acquaintance that share similar goals to Isaac? Look at this man, this older man cannot be a threat. No, he is a threat. Making copies of himself, observant from the looks of it, and sneaky like his friend Isaac. Stop saying everyone is a threat to me. Why did Isaac tell me what he was?

Grey eyes snapped to the man at the table. The one Isaac had introduced as his mentor, Sun Chi. An odd name and a foreigner from the looks of him. Yet, her focus was on his cloudy eyes, blind she assumed. What Evelyn did catch was how smooth proper and quiet he moved from his chair. A Man who moves with purpose. When he asked for her to sit, Evelyn almost sat down when Victoria’s glorious voice became the saving grace of the evening even if this man way holds answers. Let Isaac figure those out if he has not already. Evelyn wanted to be with her closest, and perhaps only friend. Well, maybe Isaac was one as well. Maybe. Not nearly as protective of Evelyn as Vee had been. Especially as of late.

Not long afterwards, it appeared everyone had made their separate ways and a slight anxious spell came over the redhead as she wondered who she was supposed to follow. She felt like a lost doe before she made the decision of going with Victoria. With that, the redhead climbed up the stairs to the catwalk above and followed Vee down the maze of rooms. Regularly, Victoria would look back before they made it to a room that, when opened, revealed a rather nice room.

The word lavish would have been too much for the room, but the clean walls with white paint, soft green bed sheets with matching pillows on a queen size bed, and a small wooden desk and bookcase in the medium size room felt nice. Nothing fancy but was leagues about Evelyn’s own room which could barely fit a single bed, dresser and mirror with thin walls that allowed her to hear everything the neighbours did. “This is nice,” Evelyn spoke softly as she entered the room feeling relaxed instantly. All it needed was a potted plant to complete the look and Evelyn could live there. She wondered what her father would have thought of rooms this nice.

Victoria was silent for a moment as she closed the door behind them. Evelyn raised a brow at her friend in confusion. This got her to speak up. “You do not have to do this, Eve. You can go. It is not too late.”

“I know,” Evelyn went tight-lipped and nodded once.

“Then why stay?”

A shrug came next from Evelyn. “As it would appear someone was interested in me or my family. They forced me into this and they will regret doing so.”

Evelyn smiled but Vee did not. However, Victoria let the subject go for that time. “Well, you think he is my boyfriend?” She smirked while gesturing to the dress Evelyn had. “Whatever happened to not taking charity, Eve?”

Evelyn turned her head away. Pouting, “it is not charity. It is a simple disguise for the party. Cannot go in looking like I usually do now can I?” Evelyn asked while she sat down on the bed, feeling the soft blankets on her fingertips.

“That is a little expensive for a simple costume,” Vee sat beside her, her tone playful with a hint of mischief behind her eyes.

“Victoria, nothing is between me and Isaac. We can barely get along in a carriage let alone have feelings in that taboo way. Besides,” Evelyn waved her hand dismissively,” I seen the way he acted with that store owner, Ms.Balton. He is either in a special relationship with her or a ladies man.” Grey eyes rolled as Evelyn laid down on the bed. The feeling of her back relaxing was pure heavenly bliss. “We are just going to a party where the potential enemy is at. Whatever they have to my family they are taking it out on me, and for once, I am innocent.”

“So,” Vee treated carefully picking her words. “You do not know why they may be going after your family?”

“Of course I do,” Evelyn began. For a moment worried someone may eavesdrop. Sitting up on the bed, the redhead continued. “Leslie and my grandfather hunted members of the Order of Vali. Killed a couple minor members. Maybe a major player in the Order.” Victoria’s mouth hanging slightly open as Evelyn continued. “You see, I cannot share this with people like them out there. They are part of the ORder, and would never see my grandfather’s perspective or understand the belief that they were causing terrible things to happen in Germany and the surrounding countries in regards to monsters.”

“You believe why your grandfather went after the Order?” Vee asked, curious of the answer.

“That,” Evelyn said slowly, “ I do not know. The ORder is not making a compelling case and Isaac does not seem so bad for a member of the ORder. That could change f he knew this though, so-”

“I will not say a word, Evelyn. Not my secret to tell.” Vee finished.

 

[Ninja]

Odeth had done an impressive job of rescuing what he could as Isaac walked into the room set aside for him, a smile beamed across his face at the sight of his familiar belongings. He slowly slid of his coat, hanging it by the door, next the harness he wore underneath it before hooking it with the crossbow and gun still sheathed with it. He picked up his blade from the desk where Victoria had left it, finally having it back in his possession, if felt good in his hands as he swung it feeling the fine balance and soft leather hilt as the air made a satisfying swoosh. The hairs on Isaac's neck began to stand on end, a feeling that he was being watched, he spun around blade still in hand to see his mentor stood in the doorway.
"Still allowing distractions to get the better of your Isaac."
Isaac's eyes went to the blade in his hand before slowly lowering it, his posture becoming subtly more straight in the presence of his mentor.
"I do not mean your blade, I meant her." Sun Chi made a deliberate gesture to turn his head back down the corridor as if making his point clearer who he was referring to.

Isaac swiped the blade downward before replacing it in the sheath still strapped to his side, before slowly looking up towards him.
"There is no distraction, Evelyn has been a great help,or though to admit it to her she would likely believe it to be some ploy or game."
Sun Chi took a small step towards Isaac, both hands behind his back, his eyes motionless.
"I sense the distraction runs much deeper than that."
Isaac felt a sudden and unexpected sense of defensive anger suddenly leaping up from somewhere inside him, 'Why does that make me angry?' he thought to himself before quickly regaining his composure.
"I will not be baited, I have my own questions that need answering and for once you will answer them,"
Isaac watched as his hands moved from behind his back before placing one on top of the other in front of him.
"Very well, though I sense anger in your voice Isaac, ask your question wisely."
Isaac's eyes narrowed 'I fear you hide secrets that you know I would not like, yet still we play this game.' Isaac thought to himself.
"You mentioned a coup within the Order, does that explain the attacks in the tunnel and the assassin?"
"The attack in the tunnel is indeed disturbing, the council members all claim that they had no prior knowledge of such an order yet to my knowledge there are only two things that could bring about that which occurred."
He stepped forward a little more, Isaac watching him closely as he slowly closed the door behind him before continuing.
"The first would require the entire council to execute the change to the Golem protectorate stone, in order to do this all the pieces of the stone must be brought together before such a command could be done."
One hand slid into the long sleeve of the other before returning with a bracelet, a small piece of an orange crystal sitting upon it.
"My piece still remains hidden."
"Could some of the pieces be brought together, perhaps allowing partial control" Isaac asked as he slowly began to take off his gloves, throwing each onto the bed behind him.
"No.." His hand replaced the bracelet under the sleeve before coming up to rub his chin. "Perhaps, but such a thing should not be possible and would certainly require the majority of the stones."

His finger had been hurting lately, he needed to speak to Victoria about that as he slowly began to rub the greying skin around the dark ring, his attention still fixed on his mentor.
"Very well, you said there were two ways, what is the second."
"The second is as impossible as the first, though I fear it is the method that was used, deep within the Secret Vault in our most secure catacombs lies a device, a device of unimaginable power, it was captured by your earliest predecessor and buried with all the other dangerous artefacts from the dark times."
Isaac twisted the ring slightly as he started to feel a warm discomfort from around it. 'I really should speak to Victoria about it, this is a little odd'. he thought to himself before speaking out.
"What does this device do, why bury it, why not destroy it if it is so powerful."
"Such creations were often filled with pure dark magical force, to destroy one would surely release the energy in an uncontrolled force."
"And that would be bad."
"Yes that would be very bad."
"Okay so you buried it, in a secret vault, and what does it do?"
"The device has the ability to amplify thoughts, to allow one to tap into the magical conduits of energy that flow through time and the space around us, with such ability a single thought can control all, a thought can travel the roads of time back and forth."

Isaac rubbed his chin a thought entering his mind as he did so.
"So that would allow them to have seen events, like knowing what had happened with the Serpent before it did so."
"Yes, but such a thing cannot of occurred, as I said it should be impossible for only a powerful pure blooded Seer can use such a device."
"And they are all extinct, I remember you once telling me, the ring bearer before me saw to their destruction."
"Precisely, for such a thing to be possible would mean they were not entirely wiped out as we were led to believe."
Isaac thought about his mentors words for a moment, replaying the events that had occurred leading up to this moment in his head.
"Yet with everything we know, that would seem to be the most logical conclusion. Somehow a Seer has survived and they have gained access to such a device."
"So it would seem, to my knowledge only one knows of the Vaults location and we have had no reports that it has been penetrated."
"Let me guess, they will be at the party which is why you gave me the invites." Isaac's eyes wandered to the wrapped parcel he'd dropped on the table. "Do you have a name."
"Count De Ville, he is the oldest amongst us, only he will know the location and how to access it, though you may find he is a difficult man to gain the information you need."
Sun Chi turned, opening the door as he began to step outside.

"Remember Isaac, do not allow yourself to become distracted, the cost is too great."
With that he slowly walked back towards the central room leaving Isaac alone to ponder the many things he had just learnt.

 

[Olive Tome]

“This is a red wine glass, white wine glass, champagne flute and a water glass.” Victoria pointed out to a rather bored Evelyn who still could not fathom why there were forks for different times of a meal. Yet, now these seemingly similar glasses - for the exception of the champagne flute - were for different types of liquids. How ridiculous and tedious like the soup spoon. “Evelyn, you are not even paying attention,” Vee scolded.

Gesturing to the table in front of her, Evelyn looked at Victoria. “This is a party, no one said anything about dinner. Is this not just a dance?”

“You never know when the opportunity will rise to use these skills. Many important guests will be there and we need to make a good impression. Besides, we agreed I would talk to the Doctor if you can sneak to the back and find any information about thanatology. You simply cannot do that if you stick out like a sore thumb, Evelyn.” Victoria shook her head as she put the cutlery back down on the table.

“I get that part but learning how to hold a fork or what type of glass my white wine will be served in,” Evelyn grumbled as she lifted a glass to demonstrate her knowledge.

“That is the water glass.” Evelyn slammed down the glass on the table, surprised not to have shattered the fragile looking item. Victoria just shook her head. “You need to stay level-headed, Eve. Showing anger is not lady-like and will get you noticed quickly.

“What is the point, then!” Evelyn lifted her hands in the air in defeat. “I am not even going to be talking to these snobs anyways. They will see me for the fraud that I am and if not will ignore me anyways because I am a nobody to them. Why you lot want me to come is more ridiculous than any of Leslie’s ideas.” Evelyn clenched her fists and slowly lowered them down to her sides. “I can sneak to the back better if dressed like a servant, not like a prostitute. I mean, I can barely dance. I used to be a maid, I can pull that roll off perfectly.” Evelyn laughed while shaking her head.

Victoria’s eyebrows furrowed and a tiny frown appeared on her face. “Whatever happened to the confident and amiable Evelyn that I knew?” Evelyn tilted her head slightly. “Amiable means happy, friend, and pleasant manner.”

“That was because you saw the fighter. The one who loves hunting. It makes me feel powerful, strong like nothing can stop me. I still way ways to go to be even stronger but it makes me feel good. This,” she gestured to her attire, “just shows where I belong in normal society - that I do not belong.”


Victoria left it alone, knowing how her ambitious friend felt about things like society, god and life. It was worrisome. “I need to go check a couple things with Isaac, will you be okay for a few moments while I sort this out?”

Evelyn nodded while lifting a fork. “Of course, the dinner fork and I will get along just fine.”

Victoria smiled, “cake fork.” Evelyn immediately tossed the silverware onto the table and Vee chuckled as she left the room.


The corridors were not confusing to the raven-haired doctor as she walked through them. Dim-lit but her eyes were used to grow accustomed to the light level. Her teeth gritted as she made her way to Isaac’s door. A couple short knocks later and Victoria stormed in at the first hint of him allowing her in. “I still firmly believe Evelyn should not go. She is not going to respond well to all those people and she can barely keep up with the etiquette and this will be dangerous for her. She does not know them, why do we need to bring her, Isaac? Is it because you fancy her and wanted to see her in a dress?” Victoria crossed her arms defensively.

 

[Ninja]

As Victoria burst in Isaac was just stepping out of the small shower, water beads still running off his body as he grappled for a towel to quickly cover himself.
"Come on in." He whispered to himself as Victoria stood there unloading her frustrations on him, Isaac doubted she had even taken a moment to realise he was in fact practically naked before she had finished her outburst.
"Are you done." He said as she stood with her arms crossed.
"Why would you let me in if you were in the shower."
Isaac closed his eyes for a few moments wondering what he did in another life to deserve the scorn of Victoria.
"I apologise you are of course right, what was I thinking letting you burst in like that."
Victoria's eyes sharpened, the edges of her lips curling as she took a step forward.
"Sarcasm is below you, now answer my questions."
He gripped the towel with one hand while gesturing to himself with the other.
"Could I at least get dry and changed first before my inquiry."

Victoria shrugged, her eyes glossing over his still wet muscular body before simply turning with her back to him.
"Very well, answer while you dress."
Isaac rubbed his hand slowly over his face. 'I must of done something terrible in my past life, perhaps I once kicked a nun holding a puppy." The idea brought him slight amusement before he slowly began to dry himself.
"Why are you concerned about Evelyn's etiquette, what is wrong with her as she is."
Victoria went to turn around, no doubt angry before Isaac made a quick gesture forcing her to look back at the closed door.
"You as well as anyone know there is a certain expectation from such events, why in the world would you put her in such a situation."
Isaac began to slip on his pants, his eyes fixed on the back of Victoria's head making sure she was not looking.
"Because it is precisely where she would not be expected to be, I have every confidence in Evelyn to continue to be as non etiquette as the first moment we met."
Victoria turned as Isaac was still buttoning his pants, a look of a rabbit caught in the headlights across his face.
"Your doing it deliberately aren't you, placing her where she can cause the most trouble."
Isaac sighed, buttoning his pants before surrendering to the fact he was going to have to have this conversation whether he wanted to or not.
"Evelyn is more than capable of looking after herself, the combination of her looking beautiful and distracting combined with her no doubt exotic behaviour will, I hope cause quite the stir." Isaac moved to the parcel no open on the bed, folded neatly inside was a fresh silk shirt as white as fresh snow. His hand caressed it for a moment as Victoria rolled her eyes at him.
"I assure you Victoria." He continued while slowly with precision equal to a surgeon he began to unfold the shirt. "Evelyn and I will get the answers we need, you need not worry about her." His eyes looked up to meet her stare. "Or me for that matter."

Victoria turned to the door as Isaac began laying out the shirt neatly.
"I will hold you responsible should anything happen to her."

Isaac lifted his head as the door closed behind her, wondering to himself whether he should be more afraid of the assassin or of Victoria herself.

 

[Olive Tome]

Stepping into the opening of the dress, Evelyn bent down and lifted it up around her legs, hips and torso; covering the small light coloured scars. Slowly she slipped one arm after another into the sleeves. Adjusting the cloth around her waist and hips, Evelyn looked in the mirror at herself and the dress fabric that was currently loose around her small frame. Victoria appeared in the reflection as she grabbed the two strands and began to loop them through the holes and tightening as she went. Most women may have found it unbearable as it became tighter and tighter, yet Evelyn did not wince. No, she just stared at herself in the mirror. Frowning.

Glancing over her shoulder at Victoria whose face was a mere couple of inches away, Evelyn sighed. “Do you really think I do not look like a dreaded harlot in this?”

Victoria looked up and smiled. “Of course not. The dress is very becoming on you.” Evelyn snorted, noticing how well Victoria looked in her own dark blue dress. Vee would steal the breaths of many men. Evelyn on the other hand… “You know, Isaac fancies that outfit,” Vee looked at Evelyn’s eyes through the reflection, “and you too.”

Evelyn became flustered and angry. “You are being daft, Vee. Most men run like the plague when they see me. Well, maybe not that bad, but it has been a year since I managed to date again.”

Evelyn relaxed as Victoria stepped away from the dress which now form-fitted Evelyn. “You may think that but I know he enjoys your company. He would not spend that sort of money on just any woman.” Victoria added and became amused when she saw a conflicted look in Evelyn’s eyes. If only those two would have seen the way they talked and acted about the other. “Here, sit while I finish your hair.” Evelyn complied and sat at Victoria’s dresser which had its own mirror. She looked at the light coloured blush on her face and longer, thicker lashes. The lips were the same colour but glossier. Compared to Vee’s own face, Evelyn’s looked almost untouched.

“What did he say about me?” Evelyn looked back but Victoria forced her to look forward as she ran the brush through Evelyn’s thick hair.

“Well, you thought I was daft before, why change your mind?” Vee teased.

Evelyn pouted but remained quiet in embarrassment. Why care what he thinks anyways? Evelyn already made bets on him disappearing after this little mystery was solved. Leslie told her that much. In fact, he was the one who taught her not to trust people. IS that why she does not trust many people? Victoria was trustworthy and Evelyn was beginning to warm up to Isaac. Even if Leslie pointed out it was a little too fast to warm up to someone.

“You want your hair up or down?”

“Down,” Evelyn said quietly and Victoria nodded and put the brush down. Her red hair looked voluminous, tangle-free, and with waves in it. The nicest her hair has been in a while.

Victoria smiled as Evelyn stood up. “You ready? We do not wish to be late even if it is a woman’s duty to take her time.” Evelyn rolled her eyes and nodded. Victoria led the way out of her room and down the maze that Evelyn could easily get lost in all the way to the dining hall. Instead of staying unnoticed like Evelyn wanted. Victoria gave a giant grin and spoke loudly. “We are ready. How long before you men are finally ready?” She teased.

 

[Ninja]

Isaac was perched against the wall behind Odeth and had been for some time, he watched as his hands swept across the canvas, each brush stroke adding the most minute of details to a complex pattern of interlocking symbols that seemed to form images on the macro level as well as the larger picture. Isaac tilted his head both ways and yet still he could not make sense of what he was seeing nor was he sure he really wanted to while smoothing the non-existent wrinkles on the emerald green waistcoat. He was very pleased with his choice of clothing, having had Victoria, much to her annoyance, import the finest French silk shirt of the purest white, above that sat the waistcoat, the green set upon by a black pattern of baroque floral design, this was finished up by a black silk scarf tied in a connoisseur fashion. He'd taken great pride in choosing an outfit he felt would complement Evelyn's choice perfectly, yet as he stood there once more checking his pocket watch and watching the remaining time drain away he was scarcely prepared for what he saw.

The voice of Victoria brought his eyes up from the watch, the second they fell upon Evelyn he felt the world around him vanish into nothing, all he saw was her radiant beauty drawing his full attention. Her hair flowed across cheeks filled with colour, her bare shoulders only serving to enforce her feminine charms. It took Sun Chi's subtle cough for Isaac to realise he had suddenly wandered into the centre of the room, his eyes fixed on Evelyn the entire time.
"Distraction." His mentor whispered to him, strangely aware of Isaac's sudden loss for words.
Isaac brought his eyes down for a moment, noticing the necklace box resting on the edge of the table, picking it up before moving to the foot of the stair case to meet Evelyn and Victoria as they slowly descended.
"You look incredible, more beautiful than I imagined,"
"Why thank you Isaac" Victoria said as she stood beside Evelyn.
"What." Isaac said suddenly startled by the realisation that Victoria was also present. "Oh yes you look nice too Victoria." Victoria rolled her eyes, allowing her shoulder to push into him as she stepped past. He didn't notice though, instead opening the jewel case once more and presenting it to Evelyn. "I believe this would add to what is already perfection."

 

[Olive Tome]

Why does Victoria always feel the need to make an entrance no matter what she is doing? Evelyn asked herself as she was looking down at her feet wearing the heeled shoes that were a pain to walk around in. Why would someone invent a shoe that was not comfortable to walk in?

Building up the courage to look up after the long silence, Evelyn's grey eyes laid on Isaac who was staring at her. He started to begin slowly walk towards Victoria and herself. Lips parted slightly that almost could have been missed entirely. His eyes were full of emotion or something that Evelyn could not identify, but the thought of him looking at her made her face heat up. Soon her own eyes travelled over his attire. The overall green them appeared to have matched with her own dress in an odd sort of coincidence. The black ivy design on the green made it look intricate and fanciful while his undershirt, plain and white, helped keep the appearance tidy. The black scarf, which Evelyn knew there was another name for, helped make him look like he belonged in high society, which he did. For once, it was not meant as an insult, but rather a delightful thought in her own mind.

Her hands played with the hem of her dress as she broke eye contact with him to look back down at her feet. What is becoming of me?

The coughs of the man caught her attention. Isaac’s as well, who looked away from her which disappointed her for no reason. That was until he looked back at Victoria and herself before picking up a box and walking over to them. A slow stride full of purpose unlike a few moments ago. Now he appeared, to Evelyn at least, to be more like himself.

"You look incredible, more beautiful than I imagined.” He looked at her while speaking.

Her eyes widened a tiny bit as she soaked in what he said. Did he really just? Yes, he did. Numbness covered her mind as she blankly stared at him. Victoria was saying something but it was deft against her ears. Cheeks heated up more out of embarrassment and confusion. What was she suppose to say or do? What would a lady do? Evelyn desperately wished to be fighting monsters rather than try to find the right words for the situation. For once, the redheaded woman cared and wished not to mess up.

Eyes watched as Victoria finished descending the stairs leaving Evelyn to slowly finish making her way down. The box in Isaac’s hands opened in front of her and the same beautiful necklace as before. Excitement for knowing what to finally do in the situation, Evelyn turned around and lifted her hair like she seen women do when presented gifts from their wealthy benefactors. No one could see the smile that lifted her cheeks up to her eyes as she let Isaac put the necklace on her. Was getting attention from this man really a source of happiness? Do not get too comfortable. You saw how he acted with the woman at the dress shop. He knows how to play with emotions. He just needs you to aid him, nothing more. A happy woman is more willing to do favours than an independent woman. A voice reminded her. Her face going back to neutral as she turned back to face the others, making sure to put a small smile on her face. “You were the one to buy the dress and necklace. Thank your own tastes in fancy clothing and jewellery.”

Victoria smirked as she watched the speechless man and awkward woman make their exchange. Did they not see what was so clear to everyone else? “I believe we should get going soon before the party is over.” She smiled brightly.

 

[Ninja]

Isaac stepped back to let Evelyn pass, his eyes fixed on her as she appeared to glide past, he moved slowly behind her before his eyes caught the lips of Sun Chi moving.
"Distractions" He read from the mans silent lips, Isaac lowered his head to whisper to the man as he passed. "The only distraction is the knowledge you hold from me." before continuing towards Victoria.
"Let us take the elevator shall we, I have no intentions of dragging my dress through that pipe nor would I wish it on Evelyn."
Isaac shrugged gesturing to Odeth who promptly disappeared off down a side tunnel.
"Very well." Isaac was in no mood to challenge Victoria again, besides he was certain the assassin would most likely be watching the party anyway, yet it would be the one place he would likely not make his move. He held out his arm for Evelyn, having to gesture with his other hand for her to place her own arm through it, a small smile to give her the encouragement she needed to comply.
"Shall we." He gestured to Victoria, who promptly rolled her eyes and marched off in front of the pair as they headed for the same tunnel Odeth had used. The rickety lift had made it's way slowly up the long shaft, where upon reaching the top it opened on a corridor leading to a single door. This in turn opened outward at water level from one of the large stone foundations of tower bridge itself. Odeth or at least one of them, had already pulled a small boat up to the tiny pier, letting the three of them step on board it.

It had taken about half an hour for the small boat to cruise along the misty winding river, as Victoria rolled her eyes for the fourth time that evening at one of Isaac's comments in regards to her love of the dead they arrived at their destination. Just outside of the city bounds the white bearded man had eased the little boat up to a rather extravagant pier jutting out into the murky waters. Two large marble lions flanked the sides of the pier, it's entire length basked in the warm glow of flaming torches, the two men stood to attention on the pier immediately began to hurry around, each tying up the boat before setting up a railed walkway. The whole event took barely a minute before both men were once more stood to attention, Isaac couldn't help be be a little impressed, yet that was nothing compared to the awe he felt as the three of them made their way down the pier towards the looming mansion ahead. As the three of the merged with the other guests some leaving the pier as well and other arriving by carriage, eventually the three of them made their way up the grand marble stairs to the impressive mahogany doorway. Lanterns and torches basked the building in light, giving an impressive sense of lavish luxury as they passed from the biting cold air into the pleasant warmth inside.

Isaac gestured to Evelyn again her arm hooking through his as the pair walked in together, Victoria handed the doorman their invitations before also following them in as the noise of pleasant conversation seemed to merge with the gentle sound of what Isaac could only assume was a full orchestra.
"I shall leave you two love birds while I mingle" Victoria said as she grinned at the two of them. Isaac began to object, his free hand coming up before realising she had already made her escape. Instead he turned to Evelyn as they began to move into the main hall.
"I apologise, I think she is just made at me, I really..."
"By god dear boy it be Isaac himself." The large man with a white curling moustache had made sure his voice had bellowed across the entirety of the large banquet hall, causing everything to become suddenly and rather awkwardly deathly silent, even the orchestra had stopped which Isaac found rather impressive.
"The great Isaac Harper, what an absolute pleasure to meet the ring bearer at last." The eyes of everyone in the room were now upon the pair of them, Isaac's own eyes glanced towards Victoria, who was stood quite amused amongst several of the other guests. 'She knew this would happen.' Isaac thought to himself, he also decided that she would not be getting away with it and made a mental note to take his revenge.
"I must admit I was not expecting you to be here this evening."
This made Isaac focus his attention back on the man, his large frame covered by a royal navy officer uniform, an Order of Vali symbol pinned to his upper chest alongside a dizzying row of ribbons and medals, no doubt gifted for sitting all day Isaac mused to himself.
"I don't believe I caught your name." Isaac said, his eyes glancing up again as the entire room seemed to erupt into conversation once more, even the music seamlessly continued from where it had left off.
"Ah how rude of me sir, I am Lord Chandlewick." The man's eyes kept glancing over to Evelyn the entire time, licking his lips subtly as he did so, a fact Isaac had not failed to notice.
"My apologies if I do not recognise you as you have me Lord Chandlewick, it would seem you have me at a disadvantage sir." Isaac deliberately refrained from introducing Evelyn as the man at no doubt expected him to do so.
"Not at all dear boy, not at all... I erm... cant help but notice this rather lavish young creature you have by your side." The man took a slight step towards Evelyn, his lips once more being licked by his snake like tongue. "I hmm didn't catch your..."

Isaac's free hand came out, first pressing against the man's chest before all at once in a fluid motion moving up to the man's shoulder, a slight grip, before re positioning the man to Isaac's right side in a motion so masterful that it looked as if the two were best friends. Isaac's free hand remained gripped on the man's shoulder, pinning him in position but in a way that made the man feel like he was being brought into a special circle of friendship.
"Now my good Lord Chandlewick" Isaac quickly said, cutting the man's previous comments off almost as fluid as the motion he had just used.
"You seem like a rather affluent and well to do individual."
"Well I... I guess."
"Exactly, you see dear didn't I just say..." Isaac quickly turned to Evelyn as he spoke, a subtle wink before turning back to the man with a warm friendly smile. "how I bet this gentlemen know's everyone here, and then here you are proving me right."
"I yes, yes well of course."
"Of course you do, I as you might be aware obviously lack the same knowledge and insight that you most certainly possess."
"Well I wouldn't say..." The man tried to turn towards Evelyn but Isaac's firm grip only seemed to strengthen his resolve.
"Now come now, do not be so modest, I shall tell you what, how about you go and fetch the three of us some drinks and then you can divulge to me and the as you so elegantly said lavish lady, your knowledge of the guests here. I'm certain we would both be eternally grateful to you." Isaac winked at the man, a large friendly small cast across his face before giving him a gentle push away, his hand giving a little wave as it let go.

Isaac turned to Evelyn as the Lord began to walk away, no doubt unsure of what just happened but equally committed to his new goals given to him.
"Shall we mingle before whatever that was returns." He grinned before glancing across the grand hall to the somewhat amused face of Victoria stood quite some distance away.

 

[Olive Tome]

Placing her arm through Isaac's, Evelyn took the oppertunity to looks around. Looked more grand than her old employer's parties that she used to be a maid for. Could hear the sounds of music in the distance, something she was not used too. The music was very pleasent. Evelyn thought of how she used to only see the fancy parties from a distance, loathing them. Now she was in one and still loathed the concept.

The jovial barking of a large man brings Evelyn from her mind. Muscles tensed as everything else stopped to look at them even if only for a moment before returning to their prior interests. Hating the looks and attention, she moved slightly closer to Isaac.

Evelyn watches the man with feux interest. Her eyes darting once in a while to the pin on his attire. Its shine reflected in her eyes as she looked back at the man grinning widely as she listed to them talk. The man's attempts to change the subject about her was stopped by Isaac. A shame as it would have been a prime time to take the pin if he were closer. Yet, the redhead was indeed happy as well keeping her distance from this Lord Chandlewick who kept licking his lips.

Evelyn waved at the man as he left, immediately dropping the smile as soon as he was out of sight. This was going to be a ling night. Glancing at Isaac, she saw him glance again at Victoria. Evelyn just sighed as he returned his focus on her. "Indeed we should mingle with the others. We need to gather information. Best if we were to split up for a short time," she looked around the party. Would be hard to get something nice while he is by my side. He attracts a lot of attention.

Attempting to remove her arm from his, Evelyn felt him stop her. Which, made Evelyn give him a dirty look. That was until her features softened at the person walking by. Evelyn found the holy grail of reasons to enjoy the party: free food. Before she could get to it however, the waitor was gone.

"The food here is not good for the waistline anyways," Evelyn heard a familiar voice. Beatrice. The woman strolled up to the pair wearing a viberant red and gold dress with long sleeves and a high collar. She walked like a Queen and knew it.

Evelyn's stomach growled at the thought of food. Been a while since there was a good meal. To the point where even eating was hard despite of hunger. "Then perhapse you should eat, men like hips." Evelyn snapped but kept a smile on her face.

Beatrice did not smike back. Instead, she turned to face Isaac. "I do believe you owe me a dance." She smiled but bit her tongue on information she may have.

 

[Ninja]

"Oh please woman you can get your filthy claws into him later, I have matters to discuss with Isaac that do not require your presence, I am sure you can throw yourself at some other potential source to feed your insistent lust for power, i'm sure you'll have better luck too."

The woman's voice caught the three of them off guard causing each to turn and look, Beatrice face became flustered as her eyes set upon the elderly woman stood before them. Isaac recognised the woman instantly, her black uniform like clothing layered above a white gown that gave away very little feminine charm but seemed to command authority and respect. Her eyes remained fixed on the that of Beatrice who Isaac presumed was at that very moment wondering whether to challenge such a command, whether she was or not, it was soon decided for her.

"Before you consider your response, which you are no doubt formulating as we speak." The older woman stepped towards Beatrice as she continued.
"Let me remind you that if you piss me off, I will freeze your assets, have you removed from whatever little position of power you yield, and I have the authority to do it, because I am the fucking council and you will do as you are told and you will do it now!"

Beatrice noticeably flinched at the woman's response, her eyes dropping to the floor before bowing her head slightly, yet as she walked away Isaac couldn't help but notice she risked a quick glance over her shoulder towards him before vanishing into the crowd.

"It is certainly a pleasure to see you as always Kathryn." Isaac turned to Evelyn to introduce her but unfortunately didn't get very far with it.

"I know who this is Isaac, who do you think you are talking to, it is a pleasure to meet you I'm sure Evelyn." She gave what appeared to be a genuine smile towards her before turning her attention back to Isaac.

"Yet why did you come here."

"I have always wanted to attend such events, yet never have I had the time, as you know I..."

"Do not bullshit me Isaac, I was there for your training, I know your love for this kind of lifestyle is nothing but a facade, you use it as a tool, and so you should."

Isaac's attitude suddenly changed, his demeanour becoming more serious. "Very well, in which case you know why I have come, I know about the attempted coup."

The woman tipped her head back as she part laughed and part sighed, her hair bundled into a large cluster and pinned with a shiny silver broach seemed as though it would throw the woman off balance, yet she seemed to almost immediately snap her head back while becoming silent mid laugh.

"You know precisely all that I intended you to know."

Isaac's eyes narrowed, studying the ageing lines of the woman's face.

"Oh please, you can look at me that way all you want, who do you think sent Sun Chi on his merry little way, that man loves his secrets as much as you do, he certainly has his uses."

"Then you know why I am here."

The woman stepped forward, leaning in towards Isaac and lowering her voice to a whisper, yet loud enough for both to hear and somehow no less silent in her commanding authority.

"Yes. of course I fucking know why your here, would you prefer the entire room to also know it." She leaned back a smile beaming across her face. "Let's cut with the pleasantries shall we, I'm sure the two of you have questions." Here eyes shifted slowly to Evelyn, before giving her a quick glance up and down.

"I admit you are not what I expected dear, but let us begin with you, I am sure you have much you would like to know."

 

[Olive Tome]

Glee filled the redhead as she watched Beatrice be put in her place. It had been satisfying to watch her look down in shame before walking away. The look she had given Isaac, however, maybe Evelyn tight-lipped. This would not be the last they saw of the woman that night.

The elderly woman in front of her was nothing Evelyn had expected from a place such as this. That woman, who she learned to be named Kathryn, did not care what others thought. Speaking what was on her mind, dressing in such a manner that Vee drilled in Evelyn’s mind as not acceptable for a woman. Evelyn thought she may like this would. If she had not been in leagues with the Order. She could not trust anyone from the Order, expect Isaac. The man Kathryn said had no love for the posh lifestyle he lived. Had he really loathed the comfort his lifestyle provided? Was his life not perfect either? Evelyn started to sympathize with Isaac but knew better than to get too attached. He still lived a better life than her. Live without need, oh what a life that would be, Evelyn thought happily.

There was not much time to think about the possibilities as the Elder soon focused her sights on Evelyn who responded by becoming tense. The huntress waited for the verbal attack but instead got asked if she had any questions. Was she joking? Evelyn had to hold back from laughing. This, Evelyn, assumed as a leader, wanted her to ask questions. As if Evelyn trusted to be told the truth. “I may have questions, but would I receive the truth?”

Kathryn looked down at her, a look of disappointment and boredom mixed. “I have not the time nor energy for such a thing, child. What you choose to believe is up to you. You may take your insecurities someplace else as there is no place for them here.” She stated bluntly.

Evelyn went tight-lipped, “why does the Order have interest in my family?”

The woman gave a small smile. “You already know part of the reason why do not waste time with trivial questions.”

Fists balled up and nailed dug into the palms while she looked the woman in the eyes. The woman knew too much. Her grey eyes darted away for a second, catching two men having an argument by a waiter stuck in the middle of it all. Her eyes came back to Kathryn. “Fine, then. Why did the council want me brought before them when I had nothing to do with the Order?”

 

[Ninja]

Kathryn took a moment to glance towards Isaac, his expressionless face blankly staring back at her before her eyes slowly settled back on Evelyn.
"I was the one who wanted you brought before the council, as it was I who wanted Isaac by your side."

She glanced at him once more, tilting her head slightly to study him before speaking a little quieter. "Questionable evidence was presented to the Order long before you and Isaac met, within it you were deemed a threat, one that should be removed." She pulled her eyes away from him once more, letting them lazily drift back to Evelyn.
"The majority of the council had already decided upon the course of action, it was a sham, one in which my hand at the time was forced, I was not about to let myself be forced into a blind sided attack."

"So you sent Evelyn to me."

Kathryn's eyes remained fixed to Evelyn as if studying her emotional responses as she answered Isaac. "Yes, I do not know but someone is very eager to have you removed Evelyn, enough for them to go to great lengths covering their tracks and pitting the council against itself."

She took a moment to look around the room, her earlier deliberate raised voice in sending Beatrice away had the added benefit of forcing a rather large open circle around the little group. They appeared to be an island in an endless sea of commotion and busy discussions, everyone appearing to divert their eyes less they catch the glaring gaze of Kathryn.

"I agreed to the original Order to buy me time to put in place a solution, I had information fed to Evelyn and hoped you would both get along." Her eyes glanced to Evelyn's arm as it clung to Isaac's "Which I see went rather swimmingly, then it was a simple matter of having Sun Chi deliver Isaac a secret message."

Isaac's brow raised subtly at that comment, but enough for Kathryn to catch it in the corner of her eye as her gaze settled on him briefly.
"Oh please, I know all about his little secret letters to you, do you think I am as blind as that man, he serves his purpose when I need it most." She glances back to Evelyn as she continues. "I knew Isaac would defy the council if it came to it to keep you safe, but I needed to see this so called danger for myself."

"Then I assume now you will undo the Orders and leave Evelyn and her family alone."

Kathryn's eyes narrowed on Evelyn before looking towards Isaac to answer his question.

"No, to do such a thing would risk tipping my hand, this is a dangerous game Isaac, someone has control over certain members of the council, enough to command a vote. Officially you are to leave Evelyn to her fate, you know of who I mean."

"I know he has never missed a target he was sent for."

"Ah yes, but then he has never gone up against the Orders prize jewel now has he." She leaned much closer to the pair, her voice now a whisper barely audible for them both to hear.
"Unofficially I want you to both keep messing up whatever plans exist until I find out who is responsible, you have been causing quite the internal conflict."

She stepped back, clapping her hands together gently as a warm smile spread across her face. "Might I also add you both look splendid together."

Isaac and Evelyn both glanced at one another briefly before the woman began to move gesturing to someone in the distance. "Ah Professor Watson!" the woman shouted before vanishing into the crowd behind them.

Isaac watched her fade away before returning his gaze to Evelyn.

"Why would you be a threat to someone?"

 

[Olive Tome]

During the conversation, Evelyn remained speechless but kept her feelings hidden as best as she could. This woman was experienced and knew how to read people. Evelyn herself knew she was not talented enough to keep it hidden but at least attempted to do so for her own sake. Mind still buzzing with thoughts on how she could have been seen as a threat. Evelyn knew already that her grandfather hunted as did Leslie from what he told her. The stories of them hunting down members that tried to harm the innocent or bring new monsters to their lands to keep control. Evelyn enjoyed Leslie’s stories even if they appeared a little unbelievable now seeing the Order for herself.

Nothing but a bickering mess of a group. Packs of wolves and vampires could run themselves better, Evelyn thought. Finding it hard to believe that this group managed to stay together for even five years.

Isaac’s question made Evelyn turn her head towards him. His questioning eyes on her. He knew there was something up, that she had some sort of deep dark secret. He was wrong. “I have not a single idea as to why I am a threat, Isaac.” Evelyn spoke calmly as her eyes went around the room. Eyes focusing on a woman across the room with a gold bracelet. Beautiful. If it were real gold then it would have been very expensive and would have sold for a pretty penny. Would the woman even notice it was gone? Most likely not due to how selfish the rich were. If Evelyn had that sort of money, she would not be nearly as selfish about it.

“Get your bloody buttocks out of my way, Addicott,” spoke a withered voice from behind as EVelyn was forcibly shoved forward with Isaac by someone running into their backs. In heels, it was difficult to keep herself steady, but by some miracle, she managed and turned around. There stood two older men bickering at each other.

“Ah,” the younger of the two spoke. “Look what you made me do you, gibface!” He was tall, stocky with a round face with a trimmed, thick moustache that even her father would be proud of. He looked jovial even when angered as his beady eyes narrowed at the older, more posh man. Pulling his hands out of the pockets of his tanned jacket a motion so fluid it showed the striped vest underneath as he pointed at Isaac. “You made me run into the bloody ringbearer you foozler.” His voice was booming as his face became red. Soon though he turned to face Isaac and Evelyn. “I apologize greatly for his actions.”

“My actions?” the other man spoke with loathing. “You were in my way. Where are your manners? Not everyone is as much as a klazomaniac as those in the new world.” His grey hair and more withered face looked up at the pair as he walked forward with his cane. “I do, sincerely apologize for his actions. He spent too much time overseas and has developed their habit of blaming everything on others.” He bowed to the pair of them. “You may not remember me, Mr.Harker, but my name is Lord Elmer Creighton, and this is Sir Benjamin Addicott.”

“He remembers who I am, fool.” Benjamin looked over at Isaac before remembering something. “How was that new gun, boy? Did it work well? Any problems with it?”

The other man almost had a heart attack. "B-boy? He is older than us, Addicott. Show him some respect!” Evelyn smiled, she liked these two.