[In Nomine] The City of Pentagram IC

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgment

All in all, looks to be a productive night. Though the first moves by this Neal fellow show Inian might have a real fight on his hands.

Spoiler: side scene with demon / habblalah question

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Sorry I forgot this at first!

The demon doesn't delete the stuff before payment. It'd be reasonable for you to insist you see him delete it post-payment, but your Resonance shows he plans to.

And, yes, habbalah are terrifying! I find them and balseraphs the most scary.
You feel the emotion immediately and it is overpowering, but I'd give some leeway on how strongly you react. There's also a time duration, but it can be hours!
I also am tweaking it to make it Will negate instead of Will resist, if the emotional manipulation is basically a "save-or-die" effect (not that it actually kills you, but will either deactivate you terribly or let them capture and kill you. Maybe also if it would be dissonant. Like, if he made you enraged at his father such that you killed him--that's dissonant for Judgement since it's an unjust punishment.)
So, when and if a habbalah is messing with a PC, I plan to really read through the habbalah rules in detail and find a fair way of handling. But you are correct to fear them.

Also, from something he says, you get the sense that it's not truly the girl doing those things with Neal. Rather, she's possessed by the shedite of Factions during it. (Technically, the shedite is making her choose to do it... but, yeah, shedites and will manipulation are strange.)

Though the fight is captivating, Tommy has a purpose, to try and figure out more information. Once he's rebuilt his coffers after handing over more money than he'd care to, he starts asking around the crowd, trying to gather information on where the attendees come from.

Spoiler: OOC/demon

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Motive is general information, maybe some clues as to the crowd. Generally curious about who organizes these, also curious as to whether there are any undercover cops in the crowd, and if so how many. Not going to press hard enough to arouse suspicion.

Regarding the demon, he will hand over the money and definitely take the opportunity to enter the house. He has two motives - (1) to see if he sees anything that would justify a call to the cops or child protective services, and (2) to see if he can get a moment with the dad while the kid's in another room.

If he can get a moment with the dad, he'll say (sotto voce) "Your son's into some s**t that can get you and him killed. Yall need to get out of it. Give me a call sometime, drinks on me." And then he passes a note with his burner cell.

If Tommy can't get a moment with the dad, he'll say loud enough so that the dad can hear it. "This [stuff] is over now. You don't ever want me coming back here again. You got a problem, I'm at Rodriguez bail bonds."

'this stuff' referring, in fact, to the transaction. Unfortunately for the demon the rest isn't over.

[JoyWonderLove]

Spoiler: summary

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Admit to Brittany I don't like the whole burning people then, but wrap it in a FT attempt and write it so she might still be open to a kiss. Then bet on Inian ($300), so double what I did on any other match. Summary done. Tada!

A blush earlier, a touch on the arm, a grateful smile, Carol found herself growing more appreciative of her date's attentiveness. The evening went well until she got answers to her own questions. Brittany spoke easily about her favourite and most troublesome humans, but the Impudite stared directly into her soul to gauge how motivating mere mundanes with fear and pain sat with her after.

“Brittany – I don't even smoke,” she confessed forcefully.

It sounded resounding and hollow in her ears, the words awash with an earnest want to reject harming others, but fully empty of the deliberation academia had tried to instil in the student. Bitterly admiring how the floor didn't burn like twin torches temporarily, and how stupid she sounded, Carol still mustered herself up to step before Brittany, but closer than before. When she gazed up again, it was to eye the cigarette's flame more sternly, watching closely as it danced always on that edge between smoke, and ash. She spoke with contrite conviction after.

“Look, if anyone is going to set the world on fire one day, it's going to be you. And I need your help to become the firestarter you fully deserve. But if you keep me close enough to hold,” her right palm rose up to gently slip her fingers around the fist of Brinnah that clutched the cigarette so firmly, as though to slowly wriggle it away. But instead Carol rested her gentle grip atop that fist. Left hand softly sought out left. Only when she held both did she finally gaze up into the fierce eyes of the celestial only a few decades older than her.

“I'll prove it takes more than a few burns to keep me afar. We both know you deserve a lot more than gilding lilies and lighting up addicts, Brittany, and I want to be there to help you fully realize all the good I know you can do. And desire.” She searched the firebrand's eyes for a flare of interest, and leaned in uncertainly, feeling herself on edge.

(nobody said it was just PCs that could accept/reject an advance)

***

Carol had no real head for betting, but she knew celestials would always trump mundanes, so she kept betting on the Burnt's champion. Even through and past the vulgar displays of violence. It was only during the match with the Gravel Pits Fallen celestial and the unknown angel of War that she bet twice her usual amount ($300?) on the masked fighter. Even I know most wars long outlast a fire. Adrian had winning odds on his side.

Spoiler: betting

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Presume I spent all of the previous round putting money on the fire champion/crowd favourite, with no attention given to any new fighters around. Only when the Adrian and Neal fight happens do I bet on Inian.

Spoiler: Actions. Fast talk! no Emote or Seduction

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Acknowledging for a moment that Emote is outright weaker for me (TN 7), and Seduction implies a lot more subtle but specific kind of desire, I decided on a temporary approach of genuine feelings wrapped in a 'fast' talk attempt.

I'm hoping FT fits because it's about convincing someone to do something relatively minor against their nature (page 75). So trying to convince the Fire celestial to kiss someone that clearly isn't comfortable with burning people to motivate them counts...? Maybe.

1) Fast Talk on Brittany (to see if she's interested in kissing, because where's more romantic than at an illegal fight club with drugs and escorts).

Target Number 12.
(1d6)[1]
(1d6)[3]

Check Digit: (1d6+6)[11]

Spoiler: Brittany/redemption

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It was a little surprising how many little windows you allowed into her. I definitely picked up on treating her employees well, and agree selflessness is a seed to better things (I hinted at that in a Flavius post, I want to believe, but I could be imagining I did...). So I can see you're trying to give me a chance, which is fun, and I'm thankful for that, Jeen. When I first threw it out there about 'Brittany, redemption, let's go' it was much less being sure it was possible and much much more 'I'm ridiculous enough to aim for a tether - why would going for an unlikely candidate be out of the question?' Until we know where Ikorial is, call it staying in redemption-ready shape.

Either way I've paid a lot more attention to the dissonance descriptions for demons/Impudites

Anyway, I love the Mercurian resonances for the celestials so far and the lore explanations of how redemption is typically seen. It shows a lot of thought went into it.

[JeenLeen]

Inian, War

Round 2 and 3

The two men separate from the grapple, look each other over, then lunge into the attack. Neal starts to deliver a savage blow to Inian's jaw that might decapitate some men, but Inian's graceful moves deflect most if not all of the force. Although Inian's blows lack the relative force, his graceful moves show he is slowly wearing down the beast. After two sets of blows against each other, the two separate.

The man -- nay, with this strength, skill, and ability to stand, demon for sure -- looks eager. He licks the blood from his lip as he prepares for your next assault. Though perhaps a trace of worry is showing in his eyes.

Spoiler: end result

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Neal 1d6+6 damage, no dodge bonus
Inian 1d6+4 damage, 2d6+4 dodge

ROUND 1
Inian Attack 4+4=8
Inian Dodge = 4+5+4=13
Neal Attack 5+6=11
Neal Dodge 5-1 = 4 (penalty for being overconfident)
result: Inian 0 damage, Neal 4 damage

ROUND 2
Inian Attack 1+4=5
Inian Dodge 2+3+4=9
Neal Attack 5+6=11
Neal Dodge 5=5
result: Inian 2 damage, Neal 0 damage

ROUND 3
Inian Attack 1+4=5
Inian Dodge 4+3+4=11
Neal Attack 3+6=9
Neal Dodge 4=4
result: Inian 0 damage, Neal 1 damage

RESULTS
Inian has taken only 2 damage total, fully avoiding damage round 1 and 3.
Neal has taken 5 damage total.

Astarieth, Judgement

The fights continue. From talking with and Resonating on some attendees, he learns most don't really know (even if they give answers), but some have some true insights. Most of the fighters are blue collar workers trying to make some extra money and blow off steam. Some are gangsters trying to win appeal and fame. A very few are guards (or Mafia-like thugs) hired by the social elite, who either to earn favor or as punishment for disfavor are made to fight for their employers' pleasure.

He can also see the audience is segregated. There's some "box office" seats where people are sipping wine and champagne, dressed to the nines. While most of the audience is who you'd expect, it looks like some of high society enjoy watching the masses fight and bleed.

Spoiler: demon side-scene

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The demon grudgingly lets you come inside and leads you to his room. You are able to see enough to get the basic layout of the house. There's living room, dining room, kitchen downstairs and two bedrooms upstairs.

His bedroom looks like a cliche teenage, nerdy boy: dirty clothes strewn around, some pin-ups of models and anime girls, and a desk with a nice computer and a couple gaming system to a big screen TV. He shows deleting the files, then (if you ask) deleting the memory, as well as on his phone.

He strongly balks at any effort to be unattended in the house, but beneath his statements of "you can't" and "no way I'm letting you", you see the Truth about how to finagle a few minutes unattended. He's very unhappy, but doesn't seem to want to cause a scene or do anything supernatural.

At the comment, the dad looks puzzled (and is obviously a little drunk already). He looks sad at the warning, but gives a smile at the mention of drinks and pockets the note.

Camael, Redemption

As Carol's words and close proximity take their effect on Brittany, there's a momentary look of sincere surprise and perhaps wonder in the demon's eyes. A few catcalls and whistles from some of the nearby guys somewhat breaks the spell, the former look replaced with a playful smile. Brittany gives Carol a passionate kiss. When it ends, the demon looks a touch breathless, but quickly recovers and says, "I think you'll learn to start enough fires, sweetheart. In me and others."

There's a few cheers from the guys and some of the girls as Brittany gives another, albeit quicker, kiss. Some of the girls look a bit offended or jealous, though, Gillian included.

Noticed by none but Camael is that Brittany dropped her cigarette in the moment of the first kiss. Perhaps nothing, but perhaps a true symbol.

---

As the fight with Neal continues, the Burnt show avid interest. Brittany looks completely surprised that the luchador is still standing after the first blow, but not very concerned. Thinking back to the Mecurian read on Brittany, Camael recalls no strong relationship felt to anyone like the fighter. As the next rounds show Inian getting the upper hand, Brittany chuckles. "Well, bossman won't like it if the borrowed help dies, but whatcha gonna do."

[JoyWonderLove]

The kiss was intense, and Carol melted into its timeless warmth. Her heart beating hard, she reluctantly allowed Brittany to pull apart, elated. The loving words and second kiss brought out her brightest smile. Strange cheers and jealous glares were dim and distant distractions past her giddiness, and she shook her head disinterested to answer. Her eyes stayed locked on Brittany's own. Finally, she took a pleased step back, second-guessing the niggling impulse to step on the cigarette. The kind of warmth they had shared didn't need others to die for theirs to grow.

***

Spoiler: quick summary for below

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Really an amalgamation of earlier pieces into one post. 'I place the earlier $300 bet, spot Tommy disappear on some business elsewhere, and watch (like everybody else) Inian fight like a hero. I'm not too keen on violence, but it's 100% an event. Ask Brittany about Gary / who I think is her boss at the end. Ask what he's like wrapped in a mild concern.'

At the sight of Neal, Brittany laughs, "Yeah, vote on him. I know I'm making money as he does his thing tonight. Heh, and if you want a contest with Gilly-girl for profits... well, that is interesting. Wanting to get ahead already, huh?" Her smile is approving and hungry, like an expanding fire.

“Of course. Get ahead of everyone quickly, and we'll have time to take things slow later.”

With a wink, Carol disappeared off into the crowd. Moving towards the betting table, she hesitated on seeing a tall figure that made lying difficult with his back to her. It wasn't long before he was off chasing some unknowable lead. The Triad had probably primed Tommy on what specific evidence they needed to break up the illegal fighting ring permanently. Only when he melted from sight did Carol guiltily place her bet, wondering not for the first time whether it was better to have avoided placing a bet at all. Even as a means to find souls for redemption, and explore weaknesses in the Fire Tether, trading money for bloodshed was still encouraging cruelty. Short term. This is all a necessity short term, she soothed herself. She stopped rubbing her arm before returning to Brittany's side. The fight had begun.

The fighters growled at each other from afar, their threats too low to hear. The monster before the angel of War then shouted of blood sacrifices and prayer, and hands clutching stuffed skeletal dolls surged up among the crowd in solidarity. But Inian didn't so much as blink before the Fire titan.

"Goddamn! I'm too hot to handle and too cold to hold, and I am better than you! So come get some."

The star of over a hundred matches threw his head back and with it, roared his challenge. Despite herself, Carol's eyes sparkled, and she grinned at the unstoppable pizazz. It lasted all of the heartbeat it took the Ofanite to end the distance separating him from the monster, and he grappled at Neal's shoulder. Whatever hold the submission fighter was going for was as cryptic to her as an unbiased news source. But the yank seemed to work, a little, and it forced a swift retaliation.

"Sacrifice!"

The fist rammed into Adrian's chest so loudly Carol heard it over the crowd's groan, and she flinched. Watching the brawl intently, her eyes widened as the masked fighter deflected a blow that looked it could smash through multiple computers screens, cringed as the two rained fists on the other time and again. It really shouldn't be like this, she thought. But through it all, the War angel at least appeared to be taking incremental wins. Turning punches here, sneaking jabs there. It was then Brittany chuckled at the violence.

"Well, bossman won't like it if the borrowed help dies, but whatcha gonna do."

“Cremation, I imagine.” Carol dead-panned. But having reached her quota for bloodshed over two fights ago, she affected a shrug, sluggishly. She turned mostly to her date, the fight kept in her periphery only for concern of Inian.
“What's Gary like? If the scoreboard is, y'know, permanently decided – I'm concerned it'll come back on us. It'd be stupid if he accused your girls of relaxing Neal too much before the fight, or distracting him, or whatever. How sensible is your boss?”

[DoctorFaust]

Inian circles away from Neal as the demon withdraws, doing his best to keep his own back away from the bigger pockets of the demon's supporters. He spits out a wad of bloody phlegm and smiles grimly. "Veni, sancte spiritus, et emitte caelitus lucis tuae radium," he whispers under his breath and then shouts, "Buddy, I'm going to kick your goddamn leg out of your leg."

He wades forward once again and does his best to land as many heavy blows as he can to the outside and front of Neal's knee in their next exchanges.

Spoiler

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Another two rounds just of attacking. Hopefully I'll roll a little better on damage for this set.
Fight:(3d6)[1][3][4](8) 8 damage
Dodge:(3d6)[2][3][4](9) 12 soak
Acrobatics:(3d6)[1][5][6](12)

Fight:(3d6)[2][3][2](7) 6 damage
Dodge:(3d6)[6][4][6](16) 12 soak
Acrobatics:(3d6)[4][5][4](13)

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

He can also see the audience is segregated. There's some "box office" seats where people are sipping wine and champagne, dressed to the nines. While most of the audience is who you'd expect, it looks like some of high society enjoy watching the masses fight and bleed.

Tommy focuses on the upper-crust bloodsport spectators. These guys like to bet, and these guys are probably the source of some of the corruption in the city. He wishes he'd brought his suit.

While Neal and Adrian fight it out on the mat, Tommy talks to the bouncers to see who's hanging out there. He wants names, and he listens to the symphony for them. He also wants access, and he tells the guards he's taking high dollar bets on the matches, if anyone wants to double down. And he wants leverage, so he looks to see if any of the bouncers are nervous about their employers or if the aristocrats are soliciting other entertainment.

[JeenLeen]

Spoiler: math

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Just doing the rolls now. Will post results and IC stuff later.

Neal Attack (3d6)[5][1][1](7)
Neal Dodge (3d6)[4][4][2](10)

Neal ??? (3d6)[3][3][2](8)
Neal Dodge (3d6)[2][3][6](11)


From last round:
Inian taken 2 damage. Neal taken 5 damage.

Round 4: Inian takes 0 damage. Neal takes 6 damage.
Round 5: No attack on Inian. Neal takes 0 damage.

End result: Inian taken 2 damage. Neal taken 11 damage.
Neal at +4 damage, for 1d6+10.

Design Note: I had originally built Neal for a party of two massively-combat-focused Angels of War, for an in-person game. I tweaked his stats and weakened him some. His original, un-Song-boosted damage was 1d6+11. But I felt that was a bit unfair for this team of PCs, so I shifted one of his Corporeal Forces to Celestial.

Inian, War

Inian feels the demon's knee buckle under the first blow, while Neal does a feeble swing towards the luchador, hitting only air.

With angry frustration, Neal lets out a strangely melodious roar. He manages to block Inian's blow, his massive arms absorbing the force. To any celestials nearby, the sound alone is evidence of a Song, but the more perceptive may feel the force of the Noise.

Spoiler: Perception rolls

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Roll at Perception + 1. You may use the roll from the start of this scenario if you wish, if you rolled in OOC. Noise Total for the Fight: 10.
If your check digit is 4, you know he did a Song... but that's obvious.
If you got a 6

Spoiler

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He sang Song of Corporeal Might, spending 4 essence. This boosts his physical damage by essence spent (4) for several minutes.

Camael, Redemption

At the joke about cremation, Brittany at first looks puzzled but then breaks out into a deep laugh. "You're getting it, new girl."

At the next question, she looks a bit confused, but answers, "Gary? Oh, yeah, I mentioned him at the bar, didn't I? He's just a twirp. Runs errands and messengers for a big name in the city, but I gotta answer his calls because of Mr. Big Shot. Don't get me wrong; Gary can handle his own in a fight, but he's basically a lapdog to... well, sorry, but some names are private right now.

"But no worries about the bossman getting mad at us if Neal croaks. Our" -- she accents the word 'our' with a bit of stress, showing some inclusion of Carol in the Burnt -- "boss has a temper, but he knows what's up: if Neal dies for publicly showing off like this, it's his fault he attracted whatever that luchador is, uh..."
Brittany looks a touch confused, perhaps realizing she's saying a bit more than she intends to around a mortal. But she shakes her head slightly, and continues.

"And Neal doesn't let my girls close to him--believe me, a few offered. Heck, I offered myself: good to get friendly with someone who can snap your neck with one arm. But he just cares about killing. Said the pleasures of the flesh were a distraction from the necessity of death." She pulses her lips in frustration. "I guess he's not wrong in a sense, but I like to enjoy life while I have it." She gives a Carol a not-so-innocent squeeze, as an example of her statement.

Astarieth, Judgement

Spoiler: OOC apology

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Today got a bit busy, so this is perhaps a bit sparse.

While most of the bookies are happy enough to chat, they grow reticent when questions go towards anything close to the identities of those in the 'upper crust' seats. The bouncers guarding that area are tight-lipped.

From the little bit he is able to get them to say, of those who know enough for the Symphony to pierce to reveal details, he learns a few useful tidbits.
-between being paid off or busy with the Burnt, the police just don't have time to deal with the Gravel Pits. Even the good cops consider it a waste of their time and resources, given more important things--and the fear of being killed.
-if you want to get an invitation to do bets for the upper crust, you need an invitation. The bouncers will get in serious trouble if they someone through, even someone with a good story or excuse. Madison Rourke is someone who is pretty free with invitations, although those who get invitations from her often wind up working for her or ruined. There's also Mafia; some of the older Italian or Russian retirees have family connections and use these events as times to talk discretely. But maybe you could talk to one of them outside the Pits to get an in.
-the Burnt are new players and, although active as participants in the Pits and allowed to shove their weight around, they aren't in charge.
-as far as leverage, it's clear enough that some illegal services are being offered, sold, and purchased. But, besides Rourke, the people are tight-lipped enough that you don't get names.

[JeenLeen]

Astarieth, Judgement

Soon after the fight between Neal and Inian is underway, a man of Russian or Slavic descent in 3-piece suit approaches Tommy. You can tell by how he stands he has a concealed firearm, but he doesn't appear directly threatening.

In a somewhat rote manner, he says, "Hello. My employer instructed to me say these, and only these, words to you. He wishes to speak with you in a private room. You may follow me there. There is no threat of violence to you in this, as long as he remains unharmed and unmanipulated. He hopes you are an ally. I will not, of my own volition, respond vocally to you."

With a curt nod, he then turns and starts to walk away.

Spoiler: Resonance

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All is true, but even a 6 reveals only the vaguest additional details certifying the truth of the words.
He's telling the truth because he likes his employer, despite odd tasks like this, and he wants to stay employed and in good favor.

[DoctorFaust]

Inian continues chanting liturgy under his breath as Neal backs off to Sing, but allows his Essence to flow into it to create a Song of his own. If it succeeds, his skin begins to harden and become callus-like along the more vital surfaces of his body to protect himself better from the Demon's increased power.

Once he's able to launch more attacks of his own, Inian returns his attention to Neal's knee, hoping for either a break or a ligament rupture at some point soon. Before his luck runs out.

Spoiler

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Song of Form with 2 Essence:(3d6)[3][2][3](8) Adds 5 Protection
Dodge:(3d6)[3][5][5](13) 14 soak
Acrobatics:(3d6)[2][2][2](6)

It seems like this is going to be a marathon rather than a sprint even with the nerf, so I'm going to spend the next two rounds attacking again unless Neal makes a different action.
Fight:(3d6)[2][4][5](11) 9 damage
Dodge:(3d6)[5][4][3](12) 14 soak
Acrobatics:(3d6)[1][2][4](7)

Fight:(3d6)[6][2][1](9) 5 damage
Dodge:(3d6)[2][3][3](8) 15 soak
Acrobatics:(3d6)[5][3][5](13)

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

In a somewhat rote manner, he says, "Hello. My employer instructed to me say these, and only these, words to you. He wishes to speak with you in a private room. You may follow me there. There is no threat of violence to you in this, as long as he remains unharmed and unmanipulated. He hopes you are an ally. I will not, of my own volition, respond vocally to you."

Tommy notices the man, greets him, listens. Tommy's face darkens when the goon says "unmanipulated."

Whoever this guy is knows something he shouldn't. Or he is exceptionally paranoid and careful. Or he is not what he appears to be.

When the man finishes his speech, Tommy simply nods and moves to follow him.

[JoyWonderLove]

Spoiler: summary

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(Where I piece in the brief references to the fight probably isn't where anyone else has in mind, but it also doesn't contradict anything, so it can make sense?)

Get much cosier with Brittany at the 'risk' of seeing more of the fight. Mention I think Kel could have potential, and that burning with cigarettes could be messing with her looks and self esteem, so costing Kel clients, so costing Brittany money, right? So when I make more $$$ than Gillian tonight, would you be ok with Kel being my pet project for a month? Then see what a kick to the leg looks like, and promptly turn back fully on the fight. Ask who's up in VIP land.

Carol beamed her pleasure when Brittany laughed, a music deep and heart warming. But too soon it was gone, and her date went on to Gary and their unknown boss. She grinned when Brittany started talking about them – Brittany and Carol together – as the Burnt. And as a couple? she wondered. The errant want was soon drowned by a wave of concern at Brittany's comment on the mysterious fighter, and an uneasy shrug answered before her date thankfully went on to explain that Neal had no interest in escorts. She yelped in surprise at Brittany's pinch then, all fears of Inian being unmasked banished.

“Really?” she challenged, arching a brow coyly. “If you want to enjoy life while you have it...”

Left hand grabbing Brittany's left, right hand to right, Carol lifted their hands overhead, as if in celebration. A step forward, and one full turn later, and she snugly pressed her back against her date's chest. Brittany's arms wrapped around Carol's chest like sweater sleeves before the student settled their hands at her stomach. “Then grab it with both hands.” She gave them the lightest squeeze before continuing.

“Besides, I like your neck right where it is, so I'm glad Neal went elsewhere.” Reaching her right arm up and behind her, her fingers gently brushed against Brittany's neck before falling away. She realized, disinterested, that she once more had a full view of the fight, but it was a small ask compared to being cosier than before. “But you're right, in a sense. In a sense, Neal is like a priest conducting his weekly sermon. And in a sense, Gillian excels at servicing customers. So, innocence; Kel might have much more potential than we realize. Looks obviously matter in her career. Self esteem is incredibly hot. How much profit do you think it's costing you, now and long term, when you use burns to motivate her temporarily?”

Wrapped in Brittany's arms, nudging her towards putting Kel out of harm's way, Carol adopted a content silence momentarily. She lightly brought one lightly to her lips before settling it back into place. “We're leaving money on the table for no good reason, babe. When I top Gillian tonight, how about letting Kel become my personal pet project? Even if only for a month. Any extra profits, you pass your thanks to her. Any screw ups, I'll take her burns. How does that sou–”

"Buddy, I'm going to kick your goddamn leg out of your leg."

A squished tomato did its best imitation of Neal's kneecap when a piston kick landed. It was answered by another roar erupting from the pits, this one racking across the Symphony itself.

Carol groaned from the strangely melodious noise, her thoughts a paper machete. Nudging her way into turning her back entirely on the fight, she again spotted a VIP boxseats that none of the Burnt so much as glanced at. Hands entwined gently about the nap of Brittany's neck, she gazed up into her eyes. Letting the unnamed boss go briefly, the journalist to be tilted her head quizzically at the taller woman, her voice a butterflies' wings to the crowd's cheers. “Speaking of money, who's up there?”

[JeenLeen]

Spoiler: rolls

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Rolling for Neal's attacks/dodges.

(2d6)[4][1](5)(1d6+10)[13] vs 14 soak

(2d6)[5][2](7)(1d6+10)[16] vs 14 soak
(3d6)[1][1][2](4) vs 9 damage

(2d6)[4][2](6)(1d6+10)[13] vs 15 soak
(3d6)[4][6][6](16) vs 5 damage

And Brinniah's Perception (3d6)[6][5][6](17)

EDIT RESULTS:
wow, two almost interventions!

From these rounds: Inian takse 2 damage. Neal takes 7 damage.
Total: Inian taken 4 damage. Neal taken 18 damage.

Inian, War

Neal sneers as the angel Sings, but frowns as he finds his punch absorbed between Inian's graceful moves and hardened flesh. The next exchange of blows finds Neal with a leg slightly out of joint, while his haymaker hits hard enough for Inian to feel blood flowing from his nose and lip. The final exchanges leaves both combatants feeling somewhat underwhelmed: Neal again fails to connect well enough that his blow does any damage, while Inian finds Neal veering out of another kick despite his injury.

While some people are finding the match odd, as these two have finished their opponents off much faster, the crowd overall is cheering and enjoying seeing such spectacular fighters in their prime.

Neal has a frantic, panicked look, not unlike a wild dog caught in a losing fight. Quieter than the crowds or referee can easily hear, he asks, "Would you like to surrender? For me to?"

Spoiler: reading him

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If you want to hear him out, feel free to give me an Emote or Detect Lies roll to try to read his sincerity.

Camael, Redemption

Brittany smiles at Carol's antics, but frowns at what she could take as criticism at her management practices. But she's smiling by the end.

"You're willing to risk taking the heat for her?" she says with some obviously-mock jealousy. "No, actually, I'm impressed. You can try to motivate her, sure. But--actually, I think we should move on to a private party. Want to learn the truth about me, sweetie?"

Not waiting for a response, she says to Gillian: "Hey, I'm heading on. You know who's invited and who isn't. See you soon."

As they head off to another area, Brittany answers the question about the VIPs. "They don't really matter. Rich old fogeys getting their rocks off. I mean, maybe eventually, but not yet, sad to say."

Assuming no objections from Carol, the duo find themselves in an abandoned workshop that has been redecorated and refurbished into a party zone. But there's a stake and a pit in the middle, with wood and charcoal below it. A few thugs are putting out food and drinks. Brittany starts to drag Carol into a side room where there's privacy.

With some honesty harkening back to that first kiss, she says, "I plan to tell you a lot tonight. And you'll see a lot, but you won't have to hurt anyone. If you want out, now's your chance. Later, backing out ain't an option. But, if you stay, I think you have a lot of potential and we could do great things together."

Astarieth, Judgement

Astarieth is led to a simple locked door. The man unlocks it, opens the door, and motions for him to enter. He can see that, inside, is a rather nondescript room with a nice, patterned carpet. There's a folding table with two chairs, one on Astarieth's side. On the other side sits an older man, likely in his 50s or 60s, heavy-set with thinned hair. He's wearing a nice suit, although his mirrorshade sunglasses look out of place.

Spoiler

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Rolled in OOC, but successful perception. You notice the pattern on the carpet hearkens towards hints of sorcerous patterns. Though as a Dominican you don't know much about sorcery, it seems to be something to deter the person in the empty chair from certain actions (though you can't decipher what actions.) The patterns also seem to be a ward to protect him.

He motions towards the other chair. When you sit, or if you wait long enough (or say anything else), he replies in very clear English despite a Russian accent:
"Hello," he says. "What are you?"

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

He can see that, inside, is a rather nondescript room with a nice, patterned carpet. There's a folding table with two chairs, one on Astarieth's side. On the other side sits an older man, likely in his 50s or 60s, heavy-set with thinned hair. He's wearing a nice suit, although his mirrorshade sunglasses look out of place.

He motions towards the other chair. When you sit, or if you wait long enough (or say anything else), he replies in very clear English despite a Russian accent: "Hello," he says. "What are you?"

Tommy smiles at the folding chairs and tables. Looks like we both pulled pages from the same book. Tommy sits with easy confidence on the chair, and his face relaxes into his poker face.

"That's a weird way to begin. Who are you? Why did you invite me to come talk to you? And why would you start our conversation that way?"

Spoiler: IC knowledge

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Tommy understands sorcerers have power, but I'm fine with him not knowing much about it. Would whatever "general angel knowledge" about sorcerers be enough to give him a clue if there's some risk to him for sitting on a magic carpet?

[JeenLeen]

Astarieth, Judgement

Spoiler: IC knowledge

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Angels in general don't have a lot to fear. Most sorcery is like weak Songs, or at best on par with Songs. Demons can be bound into servitude, but angels can't be. So, in general, not much to fear.

Most sorcerers learned sorcery by selling their souls to Hell. Most are also evil in some sense, as sorcery is an act of forcing your will onto creation, an inherently selfish act even if used for good purposes. But it's not a guarantee.

Sorcery may cost essence, but it is part of the natural world and thus doesn't make Noise beyond that of spending essence, akin to a Soldier spending essence to boost a dice roll.

The man grimaces, but responds affably.
"Because I hoped you would be straightforward and I want to see if you can lie to me despite the circle you sit in. I admit I'm not sure if it works or not.
"I'm pretty certain you are not human. You have enough... well, I don't know what to call it, but let's say 'power' within you to be beyond most people. Like those two fighting right now. I figured someone asking questions like you might be worth meeting. So, what are you? Alien? Reptilian mastermind? Illuminati?" He pauses and crosses himself before asking another query. "Demon?"

Spoiler: Resonance

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He's being honest, although there's more reason.

He honestly doesn't know what you are, but he can see how much essence you have in yourself currently. He also thinks he made a circle that would prevent you from lying, but he's not sure if it was done right or if it'd be resistable. He's hoping to meet a potential ally, as he knows he hasn't noticed you before, but you're not drawing attention to yourself like the two fighting outside.

To this small list of potentials, you gleam he really has no idea what supernaturals are, but he knows something is up. He's fearful that it's actual demons on earth; he'd much rather it be something like a conspiracy theory come true, as that's less scary to him.

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

"I'm pretty certain you are not human. You have enough... well, I don't know what to call it, but let's say 'power' within you to be beyond most people. Like those two fighting right now. I figured someone asking questions like you might be worth meeting. So, what are you? Alien? Reptilian mastermind? Illuminati?" He pauses and crosses himself before asking another query. "Demon?"

This guy's either got brass balls or he's hasn't thought this out all the way.

Tommy's face stays stoic, even though he's burning with curiosity to see where this goes. "So, let's pretend for a minute that I know. If I know, why should I tell you? If I tell you, what you gonna do with the answer? The answer worth that much to you? How much?"

[JeenLeen]

Astarieth, Judgement

"I have made my peace with the Lord. I was, perhaps am, not a good person. You can imagine the work I did in my younger days. I received the sacraments of Confession and Communion earlier today, I have prayed and fasted, and I trust that the Lord will accept me in the 11th hour of my life. Yet I have prepared in hopes of finding someone to help me get revenge on a great evil. If I have chosen unwisely, then I hope you will give me a quicker death than she would. But perhaps some of you kind fight each other: you were asking questions about the society she controls.

"My wife... she and I repented in our retirement. She was a better person than I, even when we were younger." His voice grows more reserved, a hardness there, and a suppressed tear comes to his eyes. "Until that creature wanted our help, and we said no. She seduced my wife, my wife who had been faithful to me for all our time together and never showed interest in women. My wife revealed secrets of the family, and she changed, became darker. I only hope whatever corruption was done was not complete before she died.

"I tried to assassinate her five times. The first, a fire. She survived, but people can survive fires. The second, her car crashed. She also survived, oddly unscathed. Two snipers, both who showed me evidence of a round in her head; she survived. The fifth... a man with a knife, hired through an intermediary. He returned, proclaiming his love for her, and attacked my intermediary. The assassin was slain. Two weeks later, my intermediary killed himself. His suicide note said it was to stop himself. Since the failed assassination, he had had thoughts of doing unspeakable things to his young children. I know him; he was a good man. She made him desire those dark things. He took his life to defend his family from her influence.

"So that is why I seek help. To destroy Madison Rourke. And to learn what she is."

Spoiler

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All true, although obviously he could go into more detail.
His faith is sincere; about 8 years ago, they had a crisis of faith at seeing their children in the Family work and repented. He and his wife gave a third of their estate to the poor, and of their retirement stipend they give a third to the poor and a third to the church.

You get hints that the wife's death was not an accident, but neither was it at his hand or command. He didn't say enough to get a solid read on it.

He actually tried to assassinate Rourke seven times, but two of them failed to get a good shot. He didn't mention them because it wasn't worth the time and he feels mentioning the failures will make him seem weak.

WHY HE IS TALKING:
For revenge, and to protect others, he wants Rourke destroyed. But he fears she might be close to figuring out who he is, so he wants to either get his revenge or die (not at her hands or influence) before she finds him.

NOTES ON BALSERSAPHS OF LUST
Their Band Attunement lets them make anything attractive. There's also the Dark Desire Servitor Attunement, which lets them give someone some sort of desire. Basically, they can make someone have any fetish.
Purposefully keeping things vague to abide by forum rules and because I don't want to talk about things in detail, but I'm sure you get the idea.

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

"So that is why I seek help. To destroy Madison Rourke. And to learn what she is."

Tommy listens stoically to the man's answer. When the man is done, Astarieth leans forward. "Good answer."

Tommy eliminates his relaxed posture, sits forward in the chair with his hands on his knees, plants his feet on the ground. When he speaks, any echoes of his normal street jargon are gone. "Madison Rourke and the brute out there are demons. I'm not going to tell you more about me until I know that you're absolutely committed to the path you're walking down.

You called me in here, you asked the question, you bear responsibility for the answer. Here is the answer. I do not care about your desire for revenge or your curiosity. I care about three things: your soul, justice, and eliminating what evil I can. To the extent that your desire for revenge helps me achieve my objectives it is useful to me.

Here is the responsibility. Now that you know what I've told you, you have a choice in front of you. Not many people get this choice laid out in front of them as clearly as this. It is a choice of priorities. Priority one - you can choose to save your soul. Priority two - you can choose revenge on Madison Rourke. Priority three - you can choose to learn about what's going on here.

If you choose priority one, you will get the other two. It will cost you everything. If you choose priority two I will use you as it suits my needs and discard you if necessary. If you choose priority three then this meeting is over. It has cost you nothing and will get you nothing.

What do you want?"

[JoyWonderLove]

Spoiler: minor note

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Threw in a few randomish details to the room but mostly repeated what you said. I'm hoping they're mild enough I can get away with them?

Brittany asserted herself, leading them both away from the violence. Carol eyed her girlfriend's back with clear-eyed surprise and gratitude, even as she was taken down hallways unknown. The Impudite had abandoned the finale of the entire evenings' bloodshed just to take her towards the answers she sought. Even among redemption candidates, few demons were selfless enough to consider the well-being of others at the start. Another burst of noise from behind them, back at the gravel pits, told her that Inian would end it.

Carol ended up in a refurbished workshop, with wooden workbenches nearer the sides of the room. They were being newly covered with refreshments and food by caterers about the building. Even at a distance, she felt an air of danger surround them. A few hand tools adorned the wall farthest from her, a kind of kitsch art, featuring among them a torch, spark plug, and a presumably empty gas cannister besides. Among the faintest hint of sawdust tangoed with what she guessed was the smell of newly painted walls. All this in preparation, she assumed, for the stake and pit centrepiece stabbed in the heart of the room. She was glad to be pulled into a smaller room.

“I plan to tell you a lot tonight. And you'll see a lot, but you won't have to hurt anyone. If you want out, now's your chance. Later, backing out ain't an option. But, if you stay, I think you have a lot of potential and we could do great things together.”

Carol stood motionless, touched. She knew vice and materialism were always the currency of hellish servitude, and Soldiers of Hell weren't renown for a heartfelt connection to their celestial besides. Brittany had cared more than she should. All Metanoian angels knew of the transformative power of love. Friendship, and all the deeper inroads to the heart beyond, often stirred the soul to its fullest realization. The Mercurian blushed for suddenly for a selfish desire. She didn't want Brittany's redemption solely for the Fallen's utter fulfilment, or even any Distinction or praise. She wanted to ensure that after all the half-truths of hiding behind vessels was revealed, and emotional manipulation of resonance assaults were made clear, they would still remain.

Touching Brittany's warm cheek gently, Carol whispered. “Anything you tell me, I promise I'll listen. And no matter what I see, I want to see it all with you. So even if someone does get hurt along the way, you'll be the one I look out for first, and most. The only chance I'm taking tonight is on us.”

[DoctorFaust]

Inian, War

Neal sneers as the angel Sings, but frowns as he finds his punch absorbed between Inian's graceful moves and hardened flesh. The next exchange of blows finds Neal with a leg slightly out of joint, while his haymaker hits hard enough for Inian to feel blood flowing from his nose and lip. The final exchanges leaves both combatants feeling somewhat underwhelmed: Neal again fails to connect well enough that his blow does any damage, while Inian finds Neal veering out of another kick despite his injury.

While some people are finding the match odd, as these two have finished their opponents off much faster, the crowd overall is cheering and enjoying seeing such spectacular fighters in their prime.

Neal has a frantic, panicked look, not unlike a wild dog caught in a losing fight. Quieter than the crowds or referee can easily hear, he asks, "Would you like to surrender? For me to?"

Inian shakes his head minutely in response to the demon. "To the death," he replies just as quietly. "You had to know what was going to happen once you Sang."

He returns his focus to the fight at hand and looks for any openings that N'eal's newly out-of-joint knee might have caused. After taking a moment to blow out hard to clear the blood away from his mouth, Inian switches to the upper body and starts aiming punches and kicks at the shoulder of the arm he started out trying to dislocate.

Spoiler

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Fight:(2d6)[5][4](9)(1d6+4)[8]
Dodge:(2d6)[6][4](10)(1d6+7)[8] 11 soak
Acrobatics(3d6)[4][3][3](10)

Fight:(2d6)[6][2](8)(1d6+4)[5]
Dodge:(2d6)[3][6](9)(1d6+7)[13] 18 soak
Acrobatics(3d6)[6][5][5](16)

Why does it seem like I always roll well to dodge when I roll poorly to attack.

[JeenLeen]

Spoiler: Neal's mathemancy rolls

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(2d6)[2][3](5)(1d6+10)[12] vs 11 soak
(3d6)[6][2][2](10) vs 8 damage

(2d6)[5][6](11)(1d6+10)[12] vs 18 soak
(3d6)[5][4][6](15) vs 5 damage

Inian, War

The demon growls, his leg popping out under him, and claws back, raking a small bit of flesh from Inian's arm. He flails again at Inian, but the hardened flesh repels the force. Although Neal manages to swerve out of the force of Inian's next blow, he looks fearful.

Seeing the futility of his struggles, he calls out, "I yield! I surrender!"

The crowd boos, even his own fans, and the referee simply gives a wry smile and a thumbs-down. "He's broken some rules, luchador. Feel free to finish him if you want."

Neal starts to charge at the ref, howling in rage.

Spoiler

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There's no real mechanics for interrupting someone else's attack, but I'll let you take a -2 to your attack and dodge/atheletics TNs to not only attack Neal but interrupt his attack on the ref.

Also, if you're fine taking 1d6 damage (or 1d6+1 to save the ref) as the fight ends, I'm fine fast-forwarding to his death instead of you rolling for this round. He can barely touch you, and even to save his life he's not willing to openly work miracles he other Songs can do.

BATTLE THUS FAR
From these rounds: Inian takes 1 damage. Neal takes 6 damage.
Total: Inian taken 5 damage. Neal taken 24 damage.

Astarieth, Judgement

Spoiler

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a couple nuances to the Resonance I left out. Not anything important, but perhaps fun to read.

Although he's pretty confident in his salvation, he's not completely sure about it if he interacts with something liek Rourke. And he believes in divine forgiveness, but sometimes doubts it for the evils he's done. But, well, that's normal for most humans who are faithful.
He's trying to put on a braver, more faithful face, mostly in hopes of just being killed instead of corrupted.

Rourke was badly injured in the car crash, but was "oddly unscathed" in the sense that she was healed (you don't get a sense of if she herself knows Corporeal Healing or used others) before she appeared publicly again.

The old man smiles, but there is a cautious look in his eye.
"I wish I knew if that magic circle bound you from lying, but I suppose I have no choice but to trust you.

"I will be honest with you. I want to choose option two, but I know my wife would want me to hope in being reuinited with her in Heaven. But Solomon likely was tempted with more trivial gifts from the Lord, but he chose wisely. I will do the same, if you are a servant of the Lord. Ha, or an alien.

"But before I work with you, before I set my choice in stone, I have two questions. I know much about saying falsehoods while telling the truth. You say you care about my soul; I believe you. Do you seek its salvation or ruin? And, what are you? I will ignore my curiousity about Rourke, as long as she dies, but I care to know if the one I work with is a demon masquerading as an angel of light."

Spoiler: Resonance & some OOC info

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Basically all spelled out honestly. You get the sense he would work with you even if you are a demon, but with great caution and fear for his soul, and hoping the Lord would forgive such alliance for the greater good of others' avoiding her influence. Well, and he wants his revenge, but he wants to meditate on the better reasons.

He is afraid of what it means to give up everything. And, actually, that wording is part of why he fears you are a demon. He isn't sure if he'd damn himself or not.

Also, regarding the magic circle: from what you can tell, you could lie if you choose to. The magic circle either doesn't work, doesn't work on angels, or isn't noticed by Seraphs.

Lastly, a warning/note for being a seraph. Saying a definitive statement about the future basically binds you to fulfill it or suffer dissonance. If you told a demon "I will punch you" and then they fled, well, you wouldn't suffer dissonance immediately, but if something happened (like their celestial death) to render that impossible, you'd get dissonance.
So a note on costing him everything. Though I'll give some leeway on everything. In a sense, becoming a Soldier of Heaven is sacrificing everything by becoming an angel of another in totality.

Also know that Dominic frowns incredibly on sorcerers. Akin to his attitude on ethereals, they shouldn't be. Though you wouldn't be required to kill someone like him, who seems to be one of the incredibly small percentage of sorcerers to not have sold his soul to hell or be working with heaven.

Camael, Redemption

Spoiler

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Details on decorations are cool.
Do you have your Resonance on her currently?

Brittany gives a wickedly sweet smile, and backs up letting her leather jacket fall to the floor.

"Well, darling..."

And wings reminiscent of a bat flow out of her, covered with thin, velvet-red fur.

"I'm a demon. Most of the Burnt are human, even most of them are ignorant of what we really are, but me, some of the other leaders, we lead. The leader of the Burnt is named Balrog. You'll see him tonight. He was there at the Fall. But who we really serve is Fire Himself, Belial, one of the first-created lords of heaven."

A slight wave of nausea comes to the angel at the reverence and almost ecstasy with which she says the name of Fallen Fire.

"You hunger for the truth? It's that we're winning, that eventually the entire world will be consumed, the entire heavens. All the angels, the other demons, will burn in Belial's flame.
"And you... not many can resist a demon's charms like you have. You may not have noticed it, but I've tried to feed on your mind and soul. Me failing once, that's reasonable luck, but multiple times-- you've been headstrong and lucky all your life, haven't you, Carol? I'll tell you why: you're fated for greatness, your potential is more than other humans, I'm sure.
"Watch tonight, learn, enjoy. When it's time, another night, our master will give you a dark gift and elevate your soul."

She leans in to give a long kiss.


A RETCON

OOC: after thinking on some things, it makes more sense for Mary (Ofanite of Redemption) to be undercover at the college the Tether of Fate is at. She can look for sorcerers by following essence-Noise. She still works under Origenius, but is a student at that college instead of the bigger university.

This doesn't really change anything thus far in the game.
When I first made Mary, it was to have someone working for my homebrew Archangel and some contacts. But I started thinking about her purpose more since we have another Redeemer as a PC, and I realized she can't do her job well if she's working at a university on the other side of town from where those she is supposed to redeem operate. It would be a waste of resources to have her the same place as a Seneschal of Destiny, and Archangels don't have enough Servitors to waste resources like that.

[DoctorFaust]

When Neal turns and runs at the referee, Inian follows, catching up in four long strides. He throws himself forward and chop blocks the demon, catching him in the knee and driving him to the ground. Inian feels something snap in Neal's knee as he hits and the fight finally begins to swing completely in his favor.

The two scramble back to their feet, and Neal uses the opportunity to land a solid kick to Inian's midsection with his sound leg, but after that the fight is largely one-sided. Neal is obviously favoring one knee heavily, and Inian punishes it mercilessly, landing kick after kick to it and bending it in ways the human body was not designed. Even another strangely melodious roar and surge of Essence that sees Neal returning to a more steady base and a few more flurries of blows isn't enough to reverse Inian's momentum.

Finally the Angel finds his opening and lands a hammer blow to Neal's temple, driving the Demon to his knees. "You want flashy," Inian yells to the crowd, "I'll give you flashy!" Inian moves behind Neal and grabs him around the waist. He wrenches the Demon up and over his head with pure brute strength, suplexing him hard to the ground. Inian keeps his grip locked, swings his hips around to get his feet under him, and repeats the process once, twice, a third time, until Neal looks completely out of it and glassy eyed.

Inian gets up, his breath more under control now, and shoves Neal's head between his legs with his head protruding behind them by a good few inches. Once again he wraps his arms around the Demon's waist and hauls him up, this time dropping his own hips to get into position for a piledriver. Inian looks around as if for approval before he shrugs, drags his thumb across his throat, and drops to a sitting position on the ground, compressing Neal's neck and crushing his spine.

[JoyWonderLove]

Spoiler: decor made out of magic

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And suddenly, there's a dusty couch in the room. Couch, unless you have something better imagined (I can always edit this post). Dusty, because not everything can be perfect in a place being refurbished on a day with even the main party place not fully done.

Spoiler: summary

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Kiss her, to mask a Charm. Touch her right wing very gingerly, only with her permission. Ask if she wants to 'continue the earlier interview'. Invite her to sit down on the couch with a cigarette, in particular. I'm guessing you know exactly what I'm aiming for with the cigarette. Babysteps.

Carol had always thought anyone that spoke to her fate would have been pushed away harshly, or laughed at. Rebuked, or at least endured her rolling eyes. When she sighed contentedly after their kiss, she realized dimly why resisting the worst didn't always have the best feeling. Lulled into a strangely comfortable quiet by the taste of her lips, the stillness of the room, she had no immediate desire to press Brittany about the Burnt or even Balrog. Her resonance could always answer questions later. But the little room felt like their own private sanctum in the peaceful now.

“I wouldn't exactly say I've been resisting your charms, babe. But there are better ways to know what's on my mind. To join our souls.” She swirled a finger daintily by Brittany's breast, over her heart. “You only need to ask...”

Tracing her fingers along Brittany's neck again, a tentative finger slowly lifted to settle on the gossamer dream of her right wing. She paused in a wordless question of permission, unsure it wasn't too sensitive to touch. Keeping a careful eye for any sign of unease or pain, she lightly felt along the wing's red fur, its softness surprising. She wondered where else hid that kind of softness to her Fire, these spots the Symphony said nothing of. Eyeing the dusty couch on their left reluctantly, what came next had to be business. There wouldn't be a better opportunity tonight.

“How about we pick up where our interview left off?” Carol breathed in her ear. Taking a step back to copy her girlfriend, she revealed toned arms as the black blazer fell to the floor. Tugging Brittany over to the couch, Carol sat first, conscious her wings only left them so many comfortable options. “I think you were seated next to me, and showing me why a cigarette never looked so good.”

Spoiler: To Charm or not to Charm

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https://forums.giantitp.com/showsing...&postcount=143

The roll was made in this City post, so I should be okay to say she's charmed now? I'd like the charm effect to happen when the kiss happened. Seems like the best time.

[JeenLeen]

Spoiler: Numinous Corpus: Wings

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I read somewhere that, while the Wings don't necessarily reveal angelic or demonic leaning, they are reflective of it. Angels' wings tend to be more birdlike, demons more batlike (or insectoid, something unpleasant).

Also, as they form via miracle, they don't tear clothing, even if it makes no sense. You could be wearing a heavy sweater, grow wings that pierce the sweater, and then, after the wings go away, the sweater is fine.
Might be exceptions if you're wearing something like a HAZMAT suit, SCUBA gear, or a space suit... but even like heavy armor wouldn't be damaged via wings. Nor do you need 'wing holes'--though some angels like to wear jackets with 'wing holes' as a fashion statement and hint at their nature.

Inian, War

As Neal falls unconscious, you hear a muttered, "Lord Saminga, accept... my blood as sacrifice." As he is slain, the crowd erupts in passionate fury as the fight comes to its finish. Even the Loa-adherents, apparently disgusted at Neal's show of cowardice, join in the cheers. With the thrill of battle in the air, Inian senses a stirring not unlike what he felt at the school, but instead of a demonic air, one almost heavenly. The Noise from the fight, still echoing around him, brushes aside the melody, but it feels like the Pits were almost yearning to be pulled to War's Cathedral.

Regardless of these internal thoughts and celestial senses, the ref -- still a bit shaken at his near-death -- comes back in the rink and gives a hearty congratulations.

As Inian and the ref move out to make way for another match, the ref says, "Listen. I don't know what kind of work you do, but your handling that SOB got some attention from the VIP seats. They look for bodyguards or hired muscle sometimes. You interested?"

Camael, Redemption

Brittany doesn't seem interested in any actual questions, but gladly joins Carol on the couch.

Spoiler: fade to black

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Her charmed is fine.

Basically, charmed, Brittany is willing to go as far as Carol is. (If not charmed, she would push for further than Carol is willing.) And y'all have privacy.

Between forum rules and personal preferences, no details on this scene.

Or maybe I misread you and you really want questions and answers. If so, respond to her advances accordingly. She'd be a bit upset, but understanding (since charmed).

After the more private time together, Brittany puts back on her jacket and other gear. With a touch of a sincere blush and a smile with some kindness, she says, "Th-that was really nice. You are different from other humans."

"Well, we've got a little time before the party. Any big questions?"

[JoyWonderLove]

Carol remained lying on the couch, happily watching Brittany's slender form grab her clothes first. It was hard to imagine she had been so blessed to find such a motivated and passionate soul. Allowing herself only a moment more, she sat up, never wanting to be left behind. The nearby pile of clothes proved to be hers. She had back on her bra and underwear by the time she fully contemplated the question, standing her full height.

“I know this could be a big night for us, if all the Burnt leaders really are here. What are we celebrating? And who are the heavy-hitters we really need to make a good impression on tonight? Are any topics taboo?”

[JeenLeen]

Camael, Redemption

Brittany gives a smile, both at looking over Carol and the questions.

"You should probably stay close to me and mostly quiet, besides some joking with the other humans near me. Stay away from Flavius and Trip; you met Flavius already, but Trip is, well, he'll be near Flavius, probably. They're trouble-makers. Avoid Neal if he makes it back; he'll want to kill you or make you into a mummy... oh, yeah, undead are real, but kinda bummers. Not like the stories.
"Balrog will be self-evident. Just don't comment on his skin. There might be a Fleshless -- a posssessing-people type -- here, but he'll be riding someone so probably won't talk to you. He doesn't always come. He's alright to work with, but the Fleshless are always a bit creepy."

"As for celebrating, we got a Soldier of Heaven from an ally for roasting." She gives a playful smile, making finger-quotes around the word 'ally', but her smile is now touched with the darkness that had so gracefully been absent only a few moments ago. "Gonna have a fire and show him the futility of his faith."

There's a knock on the wall outside the alcove's curtain, then Gillian looks in. She momentarily frowns at the half-dressed duo, but then says matter-of-factly. "Brittany, Balrog and the guest of honor are here. Figured you should know."

Beyond the curtain veil, you see a stoic-faced person now strapped to the stake. It seems Brittany was misinformed, for it is no Soldier of Heaven. It is Manakel, Elohite of Judgement, looking badly bruised and beaten, with his police uniform in tatters. His eyes are looking over the people as if trying to memorize their faces and garner some insight.

Spoiler: FYI

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You're under no obligation to try to save him. I'll note OOC that I found this a good way to write him out of the story without retconning him.

[robnar]

Astarieth, Judgement

"But before I work with you, before I set my choice in stone, I have two questions. I know much about saying falsehoods while telling the truth. You say you care about my soul; I believe you. Do you seek its salvation or ruin? And, what are you? I will ignore my curiousity about Rourke, as long as she dies, but I care to know if the one I work with is a demon masquerading as an angel of light."

"I'm an angel, and I desire your soul's salvation and your assistance in the fight against evil here. I don't have time to explain everything that means right now.

I expect you to be willing to commit every resource you have. All your contacts, leverage, favors, experience. I don't ask this frivolously - the fight here is bigger than both you or I. That is what I meant when I said 'cost you everything.'

We will meet again tomorrow. For now, I need you to do three things. First, tell me how you learned to see the... what you called 'power' in people. Second, give me your contact information. Here is mine. Third, tell me whether you are in danger from Rourke's people and give me as much information as you can about them."

Tommy hadn't built recruiting and vetting a new ally into his plan for tonight. Opportunities come with risk. As the symphony resounds with Inian's victory, he knows it's time to move out and see what else is going on. While he listens to the man's response he starts to figure out how to make this happen.

"Before I leave, tell me where you are currently staying. Here is my contact information. Tell no one of this meeting or what was discussed."

Tommy takes a quick look around the room, and then stands. "I look forward to working with you to the greater glory of God."

Spoiler: Perception

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Quick check for any surveillance devices in the room, celestial forms, or threats upon exit.(1d6)[5](1d6)[1] check digit: (1d6)[3]

[JeenLeen]

Astarieth, Judgement

The man gives a heavy sigh.
"That is good, then. I will keep some skepticism, but as long as you do not seem to lead me into temptation, then I and my resources are at your disposal.
My name is Fyodor Agafonov. I live at <an address in the rich side of town>. If you wish, I will tell my staff that you are welcome to come and go as you please.

"I learned this from a book, given to me from my grandmother. She was a village wise woman back in Russia. Some would call her a witch, but that is untrue. She used minor arts to heal. My parents were secular, ignoring the Faith and embracing organized crime. I was raised to follow their footsteps, but my grandmother had me baptized as a child and taught me of God and her arts. I did nto believe her, but I practiced the... hmm, how to translate, opening of the soul's eye, perhaps... in her book. This let me hear the beauty of Creation and the discord some things cause in it, like whatever roar that fighter did. I was then able to do a small prayer and ritual to open my physical eyes to see the power in others. I used it mostly to find people of great potential to work for me, and to notice dangerous others that I should avoid. The book, sadly, was lost when a rival burned down my house in Russia. It also had some things of wards against demons and devils, from whence I set up the carpets below us."

He goes on to give his contact information.

"As for Rourke, I do not believe I am currently in danger. But she knows someone connected is after her, and she is trying to trace out who. I know little of her people; out of cowardice and caution I have avoided being close to her. She is friends, though, with most of the higher socialites. No doubt with her charms she has them working for her, knowingly or not."

At the request for silence, he gives a stoic nod. "Silence is something I can give. If you want free access to my home, my staff know not to ask questions."

Tommy gets a good view of the room, but doesn't see anything, corporeal or celestial. He does notice the room appears to have some soundproofing set in the walls.

Spoiler

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All reads as true. The book was actually destroyed by an angel of Fire who knew someone in the house was a sorcerer (and that everyone there was cruel) and was trying to kill them and destroy any sorcerous archives.
His grandmother was a sorcerer and Soldier of Heaven serving Yves.

What he says feels True about Rourke. She's closing in, but does not know it's him.

[JoyWonderLove]

Carol arched a brow when it was mentioned she should follow demurely among her gaggle of girls, but managed to press her lips together. She didn't want to argue after what they just shared. Not so much as a twitch of disagreement was offered on mention of Flavius and Trip, knowing the relationship between them all was complex. This didn't stop her from starring unblinking when it was mentioned Neal might want her dead or pregnant, and her look didn't change even after Brittany clarified she meant undead, as though that were somehow easier to accept. It made it much easier to nod at mention of Balrog and his skin issues, and mention of Fleshless Fire souls.

Her eyes widened when Brittany revealed they caught a Soldier of God, and knew only the Sword had a wealth of mortal souls. Roman! No. I can't let this– The knock gave her a start, and she felt irritated with herself, and then self-conscious when Brittany's favourite bed warmer stuck her overactive head in without an invite. Carol returned the frown with a glare. Gillian might have been comfortable with sexuality by trade, but she obviously forgot not everyone enjoyed their private time becoming a spectacle. Turning her back on the human entirely, she fussed with her clothes, forcing herself into one item at a time. It gave her precious time to consider options. Blazer back on, she faced the victim calmly, only to feel confusion into begrudging respect. Even in his battered form, the Elohite hadn't even conceded to them his true angelic being. His layers of stoicism were so ingrained he gave away nothing.

“Sorry, where's the bathroom? I'd rather not get distracted when we have to mingle.”

[JeenLeen]

Camael, Redemption

With a laugh, Brittany motions to a slightly-rusty door nearby. "Over there." A bit more seriously, but with words of protectiveness instead of threat, she adds, "But, seriously, don't try to leave. At this point, I can't protect you if you seemed to be running away from what you've learned."

As she goes to the bathroom, Gillian gives another glare. Jealousy, envy, a sense of you're-on-my-turf. Carol notices a switchblade in the girl's belt.
Also as she goes, the Elohite's eyes glance on her. Stoic, impassive, but she gets the sense he recognizes her and is choosing to stay silent on the manner.

Across the room, with an escort of thugs and scantily-clad women, is massive man that makes Neal or Inian look short. Mounds of muscle, and nearly 7 feet, with mottled skin like the color of ash and cooling charcoal. Although she can't be certain, it seems likely to be the effects of a high-level of the Discolored Discord. Unusual in a high-ranking celestial, but, then again, demons don't make nearly as big a deal of Corporeal Discord as angels do. In another corner, Flavius is talking with a group of thugs. He gives her a friendly-looking wave but with a sarcastic smile on his face.

Spoiler: Discord

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The last bit is true. While in angels all Discord is suspect, demons don't tend to care much about Corporeal Discord. And note that Calabites have to have Discord, as part of their Band and Resonance.
But if that is indeed his Discord, he likely has 6 ranks (the max) in it.

[JoyWonderLove]

Spoiler: Text to Inian/Adrian

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Congrates on fight, sorry not being there. Know you've been through a lot, but GP dangerous.

Gravel after party setting up. Manakel captured, hurt. Think he's Soldier. Intend to burn tonight. Fire Seneschal present. 2 other fire (imp, jin) here already. Multiple servants around each. at least 2 more fire (shed, cala) maybe nearby. Words only way out. Can't sing w/o taking his place.

Most of fire at GP? Fire tether might be barren. senechal's second (garus) and servants only?

In bathroom. Back outside/Text deleted by time you read. Astar/Jere texted above.

Spoiler: Text to Astarieth/Tommy

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Emergency. Gravel after party setting up. Manakel captured, hurt. Think he's Soldier. Intend to burn tonight. Fire Seneschal present. 2 other fire (imp, jin) here already. Multiple servants around trio. at least 2 more fire (shed, cala) maybe nearby. Words only way out. Can't sing w/o taking his place.

Most of fire at GP? Fire tether might be barren. senechal's second (garus) and servants only?

In bathroom. Back outside/Text deleted by time you read. Inian/Jere texted above.

Spoiler: Text to Jerechial/Jeremiah

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Emergency. Gravel after party setting up. Manakel captured, hurt. Think he's Soldier. Intend to burn tonight. Fire Seneschal present. 2 other fire (imp, jin) here already. Multiple servants around all. at least 2 more fire (shed, cala) maybe nearby. Words only way out. Can't sing w/o taking his place.

Most of fire at GP? Fire tether might be barren. senechal's second (garus) and servants only?

In bathroom. Back outside/Text deleted by time you read. Inian/Astar texted above.

Carol's smile was uncharacteristically nerves. She still rolled her eyes impatiently at Gillian, the earlier intrusion and growing implications and endangered angel fraying, but the dangerous accessory the escort carried left it there. Sniping at the up-jumped flavour of yesteryear in front of Brittany would only weaken their bond, and waste crucial time. Walking away, she returned a friendly wave to the flamboyant fire Djinn, for all the distractions and warnings against him. She would need every friend available in the room. Picking up pace, she half ran to the rusty door, ignoring the stoic judge that hung in the centre of the room like a bloodied question mark.

Everything she ate before the fights burned on its way up her throat, Carol clutching the edges of the grubby bassinet while she hacked into it. She wasn't sure how long it was, but after the third dry heave, she spat the last of what she assumed was the Pringles and pretzels she had taken to. Ally. Soldier of God. Manakel, burned. But only the vessel, of course. No celestial death, no guilt. No dissonance. A mad titter escaped her. Shakily turning on the faucet, she let the water carry away all signs of her doubt. Yugria was an innocent victim, her heartbreak at the death of her close friend bringing her grief and isolation. But revenge was the opposite of Redemption, and Mary cared enough about their Word to serve.

“She would never betray us. It has to be Flavius. Has to.”

Washing her hands of the grime, Carol flicked her hands several times before whipping it on the inside of her blazer for lack of options, the world becoming stable. She noticed behind her three stalls, one missing a door, another with an artists best rendering of a male limb.

“It has to be Flavius,” she repeated, sounding more certain this time. The Symphony had revealed the Fire Djinn as savvy. The West Star Police Department laboured under the influence of certain officers blackmailed or corrupt, with Flavius holding the leash. They would be feeding Fire information. Any undercover operations against the gang members from the judicial side was hopeless before it began. Her cracked reflection stared back at her, a stable frame despite the split uneven down the middle. The fluorescent light above turned her skin pale, her eyeshadow smeared from earlier, lipstick faded the same.

Taking out her phone calmly, Carol glanced at the rusty door. Unwilling to risk being overheard, she ratcheted out a text to the first name that came to mind. The message to Inian was copied to the only other angel she knew might still be in the area, Astarieth being more reasonable than most among Judgement. The Sword's own Seneschal immediately got the last text. Each of them were among the most dangerous celestials Heaven had in the city. She didn't know if anyone else could safely infiltrate the Burnt after party, but she knew each had leverage outside of it. Retouching her make up, she strut back to her girlfriend, intent to make things right.

Spoiler: exiting the bathroom/next scene/Jeen

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I'm unsure if I should expect any interruption. If there isn't one, presume I went straight back to Brittany and (without anything bigger happening) asked her to tell me more about Fire, angling at the question of who their main enemy might be. Even if we just gloss over it, this way I might have more leeway to bring it up in conversation without it being too obvious some of it was known before today.

Also intend to throw a FT at Gillian, but that strikes me as the kind of thing I should write out, not assume.