Immortal's Club - Game Thread. Arc Five : Winter Soldier (Started, Open)

[Baddamobs]

"He burnt the museum... burnt the evidence... The Prince of Egypt is STILL ALIVE!"

Screecher's eyes widened just in time for images to flash over her mind: she was standing a few feet away, silent as Tut's head loudly clicked back onto his body. He had scratched his nose, and had fallen still. He looked for all the world he was the thousands of years old corpse he was meant to be.

But they hadn't checked.

Not only did Jack's actions interrupt any attempts that could have been made, but the building had not soon after caught fire, and the police had already been closing in. At least ONE of these things seemed like it was pre-determined. Made to distract them.

"...No...n-no, that can't be."

Had anyone actually stopped to think, that even if he was actually dead, they wouldn't know what to even look for? He hadn't had lungs or a heart for thousands of years, why would he need them now?

He had just told them that he would die. And they had believed every word without even asking how it would work.

"...heh...hehe. Hahaha." Screecher pressed a palm to her forehead, her grin wavering between amused and heart broken. "He had played us all. He had played a merry tune and we had all danced along to it. And now..."

Now, we have no idea where the hell he is. That was his real goal. Now he has absolute freedom to do as he pleased, and we have no clue where or why he's gone.

Screecher finally looked up, a forlorn smile on her face.

"Well, I think I've had quite enough for one day." She turned on her heel, and started slowly making her way from both the group and the funeral. The sad smile shifted, eventually settling on a ugly frown "I've had quite enough of all this bull crap. I've had quite enough of these damn surprises, and had more then enough of this damn 'intrigue.'"

She halted in her walking. Her fists were clenched tightly at her sides. She had wanted very little in life, besides the desire to have a quiet one; her main fear where she realized she couldn't die was that her want for a quiet life would turn into monotony. But no, even THAT was denied from her.
It was usually the mortals, always getting into some mess or raising hell over something, that disturbed her tranquility. She couldn't just hide way from the world, because it had made a habit of coming to her every time she tried. The Club had been a respite; a place where her biggest concern was whether she should have a drink and talk to Lilith into the late hours, or if she should listen to one of Shenshen's entertaining (if fractured) tales. There had been drama, of course, like the arrival of new members or one member or another over stepping a line long ago drawn into the sand.

But this...this was too much.

Immortals dying...and then simply living again. The idea would have made her laugh if it also didn't crush her. Maybe we really are fated to simply watch the seas turn to deserts, and the mountains into sand...

"I've had quite enough of this forsaken Club..."

Screecher wandered away, heading towards the city.

The first thing she would do when she got home to England was sit in the company of her owls, she decided: they didn't stab each other in the back, and complicate every part of her life. Then, seclude herself from the club, for a time. Nothing radical: a few petty years wouldn't hurt too much, she hoped. She knew that the power shift from Tut's disappearance and Memnon's death (and the fact Utna was only just getting his resources back together after wasting it all on what was supposed to be his last party) would need her direct attention. The Club's economics was a fragile thing, and the last thing anyone with sense would want to do was not keep a close eye on it.

But Screecher had grown weary of it all. Weary of a this life of...complications.

She looked to the sky, her eyes reflecting its pure blue.

How easy it once was, to simply fly away from your troubles...

She didn't even notice she had left her flask behind.

 

[JoJo]

"Thanks for the lift," Cadeyrn said happily as Xi's boat bobbed along the murky waters of the Yangtze River, slowing to stop next to a larger fishing vessel. The old man's craft was only a small wooden raft rowed by paddle but the fishing boat was large and lined with rusting metal, although the powerful motor fitted the back looked somewhat newer.

"Consider us even," Xi nodded, "Cheng will take you as far as Japan, from there I'm sure you'll be able to find a way back to England."

Cadeyrn shook hands with the old Chinaman and then climbed up a rusted ladder onto the boat, thinking over the task ahead. To find the last piece of the True Cross, held by a mysterious Gibran family, he couldn't wait to get started. Though he had no idea what was even happening in the Middle East, he hadn't visited that part of the world for a long while, he'd easily be able steal a few newspapers once he got back to a country which spoke the English language. He turned to Cheng, the fisherman standing passively at the steering wheel.

"Let's get moving, where in Japan are we going anyway?" he asked in Shanghainese, aware that he was probably butchering half the words, it wasn't very often he had to speak the dialect.

"Kobe," the man grinned, displaying a mouth half full, or perhaps half empty, of teeth. "Six day, maybe seven, depend on how good catch is,"

"Fine," Cadeyrn sighed, sitting back and looking up at the sky, it wasn't exactly the express route but it was a safe way out of a country who apparently didn't take too kindly to foreigners from what he'd seen. He supposed the United States would be his next destination, there he could start his research and perhaps meet up with some members of the club again. He smiled to himself, one thing was for sure, it would be an interesting few years ahead.

 

[booksv2]

After Screecher walked away to get into a huddle with a handful of others and start arguing Jack stayed where he was to slowly drink the bottle he had brought for himself. The drink was a 30-70 mix of espresso and whiskey, and the last time someone had taken his self made drink and tried some he had to re-start the mortals heart up again after it almost exploded out of his chest.

Slowly drinking his bottle and looking at the huddled group Jack slowly gets up and has to use his cane to slowly make his way closer to them. The drink already started to affect him and he has what most would take as the early onset symptoms of a heart attack and an adrenaline overdose at the same time. Making his slow way towards the group and ignoring the people still talking on the stage he blocks them out as he gets closer to the group only to hear loud laughing and a half yelled exclamation.

"The Prince of Egypt is STILL ALIVE!"


Jerking to a stop and looking up Jack's eyes widen as he takes that into consideration.
He is... Alive? There is no way, he was still during the fight and... Oh gods. He never had the knife used on him and there was nothing to say he really died."

Taking a deep breath and swaying slightly as the drink in his system rages with his feelings and emotions jumbled together and raging. Anger, fear and confusion all having their own line up before it settles down back on anger. Caught up in his own thoughts he never got the chance to talk to Screecher as she stomped past in her own thoughts. Looking up and slowly walking back to his case and looking down Jack sighs softly at the metal flask that was left behind, with its little owl on it. Picking it up slowly and putting it in his case with the bottle he had been holding he closes it and turns to leave.

Walking like an old man now using his cane to move and the case held in his other hand Jack coughs and taps his chest as his heart pounds hard. Walking to he parking lot full of different kinds of vehicles he steps past a horse and motorcycle to a horse drawn carriage close to the back of the lot. Stepping inside and hitting the roof with his cane it jerks and pulls out onto the road.

Jack talks to himself softly as he is pulled along.
"I think its time i go back to England and look around the northern parts. The last time i went traveling in those parts people were much less friendly than they are today."

Looking down at his case Jack considers the flask in it, sighing softly and patting the case.
"I'll get you filled up and polished just for your return."

 

[Frission]

Karnak, Egypt 1958

<youtube=vslsS-Uu5x4>

Shenshen was busy opening the item he had deposited underneath the columns of the temple of Thebes.

His thoughts wandered in the meanwhile. The man he had tasked to follow Nadibarius had reported that the immortal had gone to Casablanca. Co-incidentally reports of a man matching the description of Jack was sighted, as well as a spate of gruesome murders. They had also started tailing the activities of other immortals with moderate success. Mortals were far better employees than immortals in that respect since few immortals paid attention to any of the "regulars" tailing them.

The only one who had turned up blank was Tut. Shenshen reviewed in his mind the revelation that Tut may still be alive. It was worrying that Tut had faked his death like that, but Shenshen judged that it was ultimately of no matter. He tried to keep away from the schemes of other immortals and if Tut crossed a line, Shenshen would be there with an iron box.

He didn't like to play the spymaster that often, but it was necessary with the current state of the club an for the completion of his work. Shenshen thought of the introduction of 'Gears' in the club. It seemed that the power dynamics got more complicated with each addition to their entourage (their was a time when he could count the number of immortals with his hand).

His thoughts were cut off as the last of the security precautions he had put up were undone. The covering for the item gave way.

It was a twisted black bow (look at the way it catches the moonlight). The one he had used to hunt Jack a week ago. He had hidden it in Karnak as a detour on the way to Memnon's funeral. It was his most prized possession, a relic that he had guarded from every single other immortal. It was the same bow he had used to hit the sun god, and it was the only thing that remained of his mortal life.

It was definitely outdated as weapons went and there was a high chance it wasn't even magical, yet Shenshen was comforted by it's familiar weight. He had brought his bow with him whenever he was tracking another immortal and it had always been useful one way or another during his hunt. Shenshen would go first to Casablanca and then he would visit the prison of every immortal he had locked up. Afterwards he would wander the world and search for the trails of either Jack or Tut.

Shenshen was satisfied by his plan of action and started walking away from the temple. The sun was down now and the desert was cooling. Shenshen shivered and clasped the thobe closer around him and disappeared into the desert.

 

[drmigit2]

What the hell was this box made out of? Naditabirus pondered to herself as she kicked it again. No matter how hard she kicked, it just seemed to stay shut. This clearly was made of wood, she could feel it. Something was either reinforcing it, or maybe the Ripper?s friend had some new sort of material to make boxes with? It was freezing cold in the box and the whole area was pitch black. What was weird was that Naditabirus still had her pistol, they didn?t take it off of her. She would fire it, but doing so would only alert her captors, she figured. It was maddening, she kicked the box again and sighed. There was plenty of space, though she couldn?t really move much, she was comfortable enough. It was really just mildly inconvenient, aside from being unable to escape. There weren?t any air holes, but Naditabirus could survive without air so it didn?t matter. Eventually she just got tired of it all and fell to sleep. A deep sleep, mostly caused by a lack of any air to keep higher functions going. Whenever the box opened up, she would hopefully wake up.

Lucky enough, the box did open up and Naditabirus slowly woke from her slumber. The room she found herself in was coated in stone from top to bottom, a few fires were lit, mostly by torchlight and she could see a clear path. The box she was in itself was on top of some sort of pedestal, a series of stairs leading to the torches. Someone had a mind for theatrics, and clearly enjoyed having themselves presented in a positive manner. Naditabirus reached for her pistol and found she still had it. Clearly this person was an immortal, or they would have removed whatever weapons she brought. As Naditabirus got herself out of the box, she noticed that it was indeed a casket, designed to be almost impossible to open from the inside or out. Someone had used a crowbar to get it moving, chipped a few pieces of the box while they were at it. Naditabirus sighed and kicked the casket. It clattered down the stairs and eventually rested at the bottom of the stairs. Naditabirus realized she probably had no idea how much time had passed between getting knocked out and waking up. The perpetrator could have had her in for however long they wanted, maybe they were simply saving her for some special occasion. Was hard to tell, either way she followed the torches. After passing through a few seemingly endless hallways, Naditabirus stopped in front of a small etching in the wall. It was of a series of animals carrying the organs of a deceased man to the sun.

Most of what she had seen so far had been featureless, probably done on purpose to keep the Lich disoriented. Still, she had begun to piece together a few important bits. The brickwork was unique enough to be distinguished, but the etching itself was enough to prove it. She was either in some sort of ancient central or south American temple?or some sort of theme park. Probably the former, but Naditabirus pondered for a moment the cleverness of burying someone below a theme park. She continued to follow the torches and realizing she might need one, quickly grabbed one of them off the wall. She was holding the torch in her left hand so she could defend herself with the gun in her right hand if needed, though she had the sinking feeling that they only let her keep the gun because it would be useless. Perhaps they were overconfident though? She hoped as much.

After about fifteen minutes of straight following, Naditabirus came across a surprisingly modern wooden door. She figured she might be in a theme park after all, and opened the door. She wasn?t exactly sure what was behind it, could just be more hallway to pick at her, but what was actually behind it made her wish she had just stayed in the box. The room was similar to the one she woke up in, only this time the box was a snazzy iron coffin, and above it, Jack the Ripper held Barry, long since knocked out and laying limply in his arms. The Ripper smiled and said ?Finally woken up from your slumber, eh? Well good! My arm was getting tired, this is what I have brought you here for. A reunion of sorts, to be catalyzed by your bodyguard.?

Naditabirus pointed her pistol directly at the Ripper and landed three shots consecutively in his head, while she did this, the Ripper cut open Barry?s throat and tossed him into the coffin. The ripper himself collapsed down the series of stairs and landed at the bottom with a thud, just out of sight. Naditabirus yelled at the top of her lungs ?Steve! Oh god why did you do that?? Naditabirus? eyes grew wide as she realized the coffin was far too familiar, in fact it was exactly the kind of coffin used by Shenshen when he captured rogue immortals. That and the blood, oh. Naditabirus collapsed on the floor realizing what had just happened. The coffin began to stir and slowly a decrepit hand reached out and began to pull itself out. Almost a skeleton now, Naditabirus stared upon the ghastly visage of Vlad the Impaler, now free and fresh off a meal. Though it would hardly do for a long term ordeal such as what he had been put through.

?Five hundred years, Naditabirus. Five hundred long years and it is only now that I can once again gaze upon you.? Naditabirus snapped into action and quickly grabbed her revolver, but found herself unable to pull the trigger. It wasn?t a spell, she simply couldn?t shoot the ghoul approaching. Vlad was down the stairs at this point and rapidly approaching. His fangs were visible and he was clearly going to get a long meal from her. Naditabirus saw Jack the Ripper run out of a side door, he was probably going to get away at this point. She sighed and threw the gun down.

?I?m sorry Vlad, I didn?t have a choice.? Was all Naditabirus could work out as the vampire ran a long finger across her cheek. She stared at the ground as Vladimir cocked his head. ?I have had a long time to contemplate the situation. I have now stolen from you a useful companion, and something you wished to possess for thousands of years.? Vlad?s finger ran down the left side of Naditabirus? neck and he smiled, skin cracking across his face. ?We are both too pragmatic and proud to admit fault in our actions honestly. After this, you can consider us even.? Vladimir bit down on Naditabirus? neck and began sucking her blood. This meal would probably last at least an hour, Naditabirus figured. Though the rapid blood loss she found it difficult to stay awake. The Lich could see the Vampire?s skin growing pale again, his body getting fuller, his hair getting dark and shiny again. He really was back, but she wondered if they ever could share what they once held again?

?You murdered so many people. I never was told why.? Naditabirus said weakly, Vlad?s silence was enough of an answer. There wasn?t a reason, he was a monster through and through. She knew she couldn?t fix him, but he was still her husband. ?I want you to come with me after, we can get you back in the club if you help me capture Jack.? Vladimir said nothing and continued to feast. Naditabirus could tell from the way he was looking at her that this would be impossible, he was too far in debt to the Ripper for delivering to him Naditabirus. Vladimir had more conviction than Naditabirus ever could understand in that regard. After a while longer, the impaler finally finished and stood over Naditabirus, his full hulking form finally realized again. He smiled and turned to leave. ?I can not bring you with me, know that we will meet again soon, my love. I specifically saved my first true meal to be from you. I have not forgotten my commitment. You should eat something, you look worse than I did.? Naditabirus was too weak to get up at this point, she needed time to recover from such a long blood letting. She called out to the vampire, ?You need to get me out of here, you asshole!? Vladimir?s laugh echoed and said ?Consider this an extra part of me getting even. You should know your way out.? He left the same way the Ripper did, Naditabirus kicked the ground and recovered. Shenshen was going to be so mad when he found out. Part of her was glad Vladimir was back though, even if they could never again share what they used to, just having him be out there was enough for now. She almost forgave him for taking away her best chance of getting the knife, almost.

 

[TheIronRuler]

[HEADING=1]Arc Four : Gnarly Narcotics [/HEADING]​

[HEADING=2]"I don't do drugs. I am drugs." - Salvador Dali[/HEADING]​

Three Mortal Years later...

Mexico, Tijuana


'Ceutan', Emil cried after the man he was looking for, walking through a dimly lite hallway, plaster walls crumbling around him. The smell of fungus was in the damp air, but a stronger scent invaded Emil's nostrils. He recognized the drug in an instant, and his eyes opened with a flare of fury. The place was a part of dingiest establishments this side of the border, a dirty, run-down sorry excuse of a whorehouse at the edge of town. It was converted from a motel charging by the hour, and it seemed the rooms had seen the same sort of action then and now.

'Ceutan!', Emil screamed in a frenzy, the sound of music thumping in the distance behind a pair of walls, merry laughter escaping the cracks in the plaster. He was about to turn to the door from where he suspected the noise coming from when it burst open with a loud bang, sending him shaking against the opposite wall, hands protecting his face. A round of hearty laughter came from the room inside, three girls giggling together with two men.

The Ceutan sat at a sofa, arms outstretched around two young fine girls, the two of them stark naked and happier than usual. Opposite to him was another man, an older woman sitting in his lap, sucking at his face and curdling the back of his head. He pulled her away to see what had so rudely interrupted them. 'Relax, Johnny, A friend', the Ceutan had his sly smile on, one which Emil had learned to hate during all of those weeks in the compound. The white-man must have been an american - he curled his lip, sent an angry frown at Emil and turned away from him. Johny pulled the girl away from him and pulled off his belt, held it around his left arm and tightened the leather around his skin. The woman sat next to him like a little girl, watching eagerly as he made the preparations, hoping to be next.

The room was loaded with drugs. Everything from pills to powder to syringes and so much more, all stolen from the compound. Emil's blood boiled at the sight of it all, and he was certain Papa Montezeno will not suffer such an insult. He would surely kill a man - and since he will spare his golden-egg laying goose, the one suffering the punishment would be Emil. He reckoned he was too young to die, he was just seventeen years old. 'Be careful', warned the Ceutan in English as Johny inserted the syringe, injecting the poison in his veins. The gringo stretched, spasms sending down his limbs, a smile plastered on his face. Shallow breaths went through his mouth, his entire body was limp. 'Amazing' he gurgled with great effort, the drug already taking hold of him. The woman next to him had snatched away the belt and prepared to inject herself.

'We have to get back, the Boss will be angry with you', Emil tried to threaten the Ceutan, but he knew that in the end it was pointless. The two girls around him lazily slumped forward, one of them leaned over a neat row of fine powder and snorted it with a rolled up bill. The other one was unbuckling the Ceutan's belt, but not for an injection. He pushed her gently away and motioned at the drug. 'Try it first, something sweet for my sweet girls', and the girl complied with glee. 'Tell him I'm busy', the Ceutan finally addressed Emil standing at the door.

'We leave now', Emil took a step forward, arms at his sides, fists clenched hard. He grimaced at the sight of the gringo having a fit of the shakes, right after the woman had injected the drug. The girls seemed unfazed by what was happening around them, instead working to please their master. The Ceutan looked far from pleased.

'I got bored there', he answered the young man, 'Here I found some company, met new friends-', he motioned at the dying gringo sitting opposite to him, foaming at the mouth with red spit, '-Kill new friends', Emil finished his sentence. The Ceutan seemed unfazed as the gringo was dying in front of him. Soon after the other woman followed. The two girls next to him were in a world of their own, with only one goal in mind. 'I sometimes forget to dilute the stuff', he answered with a chuckle, 'I never used to with my old friends'. The two girls were going at it viciously, as if they life depended on it. Suddenly one of them stopped, turned her head and coughed up phlegm, then thick blood. Three more violent choughs and she collapsed on the floor. The second one followed her friend.

'You're the fucking Grim Reaper', Emil hissed through his teeth.

'I'm met the fucker, he's a whiny little *****', the Ceutan answered back.

'Who are you?', the young man asked, not sure if wanting to know the answer.

'I am an Alchemist'.

[hr]2[/hr]

Los Angeles

The Governor of California was sitting at a table with his old friend from the FBI, now in charge of an entire wing in the bureau. He was a heavy-set man, dressed in an lavish suite, while the old officer wore his uniform. The atmosphere was tense, to say the least, and the two men were staring at each other. A decision had to be made.

'They found him in a ditch in Tijuana', the FBI agent was cold as ice, showing no emotions. It was his friend's son after all.

'What do the Mexicans say?', the fat man asked nervously.

'They don't care. People die, they told me, a part of life'. The officer was playing with his cold cup of coffee. The diner was deserted all except for the two of them and the staff. Four AM wasn't the busiest time for business.

'I care', he whispered from across the table, then slapped his meaty fist against the rickety table, 'I fucking care!'.

'I know you do', the officer responded, 'I saw Johny in the photos. I read the coroner report. His heart... it burst right in his chest. Drugs, they told me'.

'My son ain't an addict!', the governor bellowed at the officer. He looked back at him suspiciously, as if reminding him to watch his tone, there are others nearby that may be listening.

'I have friends... from way back. They can help you. They're had experience dealing with foreigners', the officer took a napkin off the table and scribbled a number and a name next to it.

'Friends from the CIA?', the governor whispered over the table as he leaned forward.

'Tell them Sam sent you. Ask them if they can make a trip down south on your behalf'.

[hr]2[/hr]

Belize, somewhere in the jungles

'I hate this place', Ameretat hissed through her teeth. She squashed another bug buzzing around her head in her bare hand, and let it drop to the muddy ground. 'I hate this place', the venom in her tone could have poisoned the whole city they came in through. The last British foothold on the North American continent was a poor one, but at least it had some tourist attractions. Ameretat spat on the ground and glared at Tut. He looked back at her, a frown firmly in place.

'What, you think I like it?', he stung her, 'My home was as sandy as yours'.

'Stop your complaining', a deep voice came behind the two of them, 'We're already here'. Memnon walked in between the two of them and pointed at a brown spot peering out through the brush. It wasn't clear at first, but the three walked past the trees into a clearing, a small Mayan pyramid greeting them on the other side.

'Is that it?', Ameretat grinned, her arms outstretched further, 'This is their great temple? We had bigger outhouses!'.

'All rubble now, makes no difference', Memnon shot Ameretat down with his comment. She sulked for the rest of the conversation.

'My pyramids at least had a golden bit on top', Tut complained as he eyed the relic from the past.

'The Spaniards took all of our Gold', a voice came from the jungle - no, from the temple - from nowhere and everywhere at once. 'They took it across the ocean to their lands, and left us dead, diseased and enslaved. All of us, except for myself'

'I was a head on a mantelpiece by then', Tut answered nonchalantly.

'I was touring the orient', Memnon added his own confession.

'I was living under a rock', the stranger spoke, and her two companions looked back at her in confusion. 'What?', she glared back at them with her threatening gaze. The two of them looked back at nowhere in particular, as long as they didn't cross her eyes.

'We didn't come here for you', another voice emerged from above, this time a female. 'I stand with my neighbors from the south. It is the Spice Merchant again', she sang out her words, drowning them in a sea of sadness, with them the hopes and lives of millions.

'We came to see ghosts from the past', Memnon spoke to the pyramid, expecting to find more of the native Immortals there, 'You have a score to settle with the white-man. Help us so we can help you'.

[hr]2[/hr]

Mexico City Major Airport

'This is it', Isaac bellowed, his great figure towering over the other immortals nearby. They were just out of their flight, and have been trying to figure out which way they would go next.

'We have to find the Alchemist', Sir Gerome agreed with a nod.

'Find the potion-maker...', Idun was having trouble with the warm climate, a handkerchief in her hand. She wiped the sweat off her brow and sighed.

'...and make the fucker pay', Lilith finished Idun's sentence.

It had been nearly two years since Mahmod vanished, and with him the great portion of the club member's funds and their drugs. They still weren't sure which was more painful to bear. That was the reason for most of the immortals who came in this mission to find Mahmod - although a handful still owe him a debt, or even like him enough to care for his well-being.

 

[JoJo]

Cadeyrn yawned as he walked behind Isaac, the long flight across the Atlantic had taken the energy out of him, he never had been able to sleep on planes. On the other hand unlike Idun he didn't mind the warm climate, he was unusually browned as a result of the last eight months he'd spent travelling in Israel, Jordan and the West Bank, though with little luck on finding any real leads. When the message from the Club had reached him by camel, he'd decided he had earned a holiday in the Americas and afterwards there were couple of Palestinian migrant families in Chile he wanted to check on.

"Can we... can we find somewhere to stay first?" Cadeyrn said tiredly, rubbing his eyes, "I want to rest before we find this Alchemist man, whoever he is,"

He wasn't desperate to catch up with Mahmod just yet, he probably held among the least bankable assets of any club member, not being inclined to collect or plan far ahead into the future. There was the matter of the drugs however, after several months in the relatively dry Middle East Cadeyrn was particularly keen to get his hands on some good quality highs, another reason why he'd agreed to come on this venture. That and though he wouldn't admit it out loud, he had been feeling rather lonely since the last time the Immortal's Club had met three years ago.

 

[Frission]

Shenshen was too busy seething to say anything. He was reviewing his activities since Memnon's funeral.

The Hunt 1958-1961

Shenshen had been hunting Jack for every second of the past three years. He was also on the trail of the immortal who was aiding him, which he confirmed was Vlad. He knew that Vlad was free ever since an informant from Marco had reported that Vlad's coffin was missing from his prison, but he was sure that Vlad was helping Jack when the former jumped on Shenshen before he was done smashing Jack's bones. Needless to say the realization that the Ripper had released Dracula had made Shenshen very angry.

Shenshen couldn't take both of them on in a straight fight, and it was difficult for him to secure both of them at once. However, Shensehn's expertise was not as a warrior, but a hunter. Marco used his influence to keep an eye on Vlad and Jack, and sometimes outright banned them from transportation. Shenshen then tracked them down and set up traps and ambushes.

Shenshen didn't need to sleep, food or water and he prided himself on never letting go. He also knew of Vlad and Jack's habits and weaknesses, such as Vlad's state as a vampire and Jack's proclivities. Shenshen made sure those two were on their toes and constantly on move, lest he catch them in their sleep. Between the three of them, the hours they must have devoted to rest could probably have been counted on one hand. The fight between the immortals had been downright bestial.

His former prisoners hated him with a passion that only immortals could muster. Many of Shenshen's contacts had turned up dead and the state of bodies of the duo's victims became progressively more gruesome as Shenshen's hunt of them progressed until they descended to carving curses and taunts against Shenshen directly onto the bodies of their victims. Shenshen had also personally been shot, impaled, blown up, drowned, set on fire and otherwise mutilated several times. He even had a few nicks from a few close calls with Jack's knife.

Shenshen had been more than happy to reciprocate their hate. Shenshen had interrupted their attacks on hapless would be victims and had killed them hundreds of times over (examples included: death from a well placed arrow or bullet, strangling Jack, ripping them apart with a well placed trap, setting both Jack and Vlad on fire, electrocuting them, blowing them up with dynamite...). Jack and Vlad couldn't keep moving forever and had also started to become desperate and careless. Shenshen had even managed to lock Jack and Vlad in a cabin they had attempted to make their base and set it on fire.

Shenshen thought that everything had been going fine, then Marco had called Shenshen and ordered him to track Mahmod. Apparently the chemist had stolen something from the club. Shenshen only cherished his bow and otherwise had very few material means, so was largely indifferent to this piece of news, but if anything could get angry Marco, it was stealing from him.

Shenshen had a fight (or 'slight disagreement' as the spice merchant would call it) with Marco and had refused to let the two monsters go. Shenshen was eventually 'convinced' to change targets and Marco had promised him that the two would be 'taken care of'. Shenshen feared what the two would do without him breathing down their necks, but there wasn't anything that he could do about that now.

Some hot country, where he was wasting his time. 1961

Shenshen suddenly winced at Isaac's shouting. Shenshen was a mess. He had a wild look about him and his eyes darted back and forth between the people around him. His body was tense and he had to force himself to keep his face from adopting a snarl. Most of the conversations he had with his fellow immortals had been curt since he was straining himself from pouncing on them for wasting his time. His anger was misdirected, but he had become unused to human contact or 'civilization', was frustrated about having to abandon his chase of Vlad and Jack and was mentally exhausted by the past three years. It was straining what little energy he had left to remain calm and somewhat civil towards his fellow passengers.

Shenshen was also confused about why Marco had even ordered him to go to Mexico. He couldn't have been sent there to chase down a chemist who had tried to run off with some cash, right?

Can we... can we find somewhere to stay first?

Shenshen twisted his head behind him and realized that the group of immortals had stopped a few meters behind him. Shenshen agreed that they all needed a rest, but only managed to mutter "Hotel, Caderyn" before moving to baggage retrieval.

From there he took in his possession his suitcase as well as the 'special tool' that had been provided to him by Marco: An iron box, a prison for immortals. Shenshen briefly felt sorry for Mahmod and wondered what the chemist had gotten into.

 

[TheIronRuler]

'Can we... can we find somewhere to stay first?'

Lilith turned around and smiled at the little boy barely standing on his feet. They were all suffering from jet-lag, this new illness the mortals had invented with such quick travel. She had to admit she was tired as well.

'We get the rest of our luggage, and we find a nice hotel to stay at-', Lilith bent down towards Cad, a soft smile beaming at him, her top slightly sliding off. She rubbed his head, short black hairs ruffled in her delicate long fingers, 'I'll get you some hot chocolate too'.

'I need a bath...', Idun muttered under her breath, struggling with her four heavy suitcases. Gerome came up from behind her and tried to grab one of the suitcases, which prompted Idun to shove her elbow at his nose instinctively. Sir Gerome struggled back, his hands holding the piece of broken cartilage, meat and skin that was his nose, blood pouring out of the wound. She let go of the luggage and turned back to face her thief. 'I'm so sorry', Idun pleaded the knight. She came closer, her pale hands examining the wound. She leaned forward, up on her tiptoes and kissed him on his cheek. 'There, all better now', she held his hands and slowly pulled them away from the blood mess. His nose was back to its original form, albeit caked in blood. The frail young woman spat into her white handkerchief and rubbed the knight's face like he was her child. Isaac was unsuccessfully stifling his laughter at the strange sight. Idun suddenly turned to glare at him with her threatening gaze, and he stopped immediately, his eyes looking for patterns on the floor.

'My lady', the knight gave a slight bow and cupped her hand holding the bloody handkerchief, 'allow me to carry your bags'. Idun smiled sheepishly and gave a slight nod.

Isaac opened his mouth to speak with Lilith, but was cut down even before he let out a word. 'I will break more than just your nose', her icy tone shot spikes through his spine.

 

[Baddamobs]

Screecher had, without not a shred of shame or loss of pride, run off the plane's boarding ramp, and threw herself onto the cool tiles, more or less weeping with happiness. She never thought she'd be glad to be not in the air ever again, but by everything that holy, was she glad to be off of the plane. It had been everything she had expected: cramp, noisy, and most of all, unnatural.

After soaring through the sky on the air currents via her own wings, the refreshing air against her face, it seemed to be against reason to sit in a metal tube in the sky and not expect it to fall crashing to the ground. Lilith had reassured her, time and time again, that the likelihood of the ride being dangerous was slim, but that hadn't stopped the ex-owl from sitting rigid and nearly hyperventilating in her seat through the entire ride. She had even arrived late to the initial boarding, hopping that maybe she could 'accidentally' miss it, but had arrived unfortunately early. As usual...

Screecher raised her head slightly, spying the other Immortal standing among their comrades, saying something to Cadeyrn (why Lilith insisted on wearing outfits that kept sliding around and showing off more then necessary, Screecher had no idea, though 'distracting' didn't even cover it). Screecher narrowed her eyes slightly, slowly pushing herself to her knees. She wouldn't have needed to go through the damn plane ride if Lilith hadn't insisted on it.

The truth of the matter was, Screecher wasn't firing from all cylinders lately. It turns out that despite the short time that had passed, she had racked up a larger debt then she would have thought, and certain other members of the Club had...insisted, on her repaying said debts. It appeared that she couldn't hide her face from the rest of the world for even a time of three years before fate found it necessary to remind her that the earth didn't stop spinning just because she had willed it.

Realizing that she was drawing quite a few stares with her display of gratitude to the floor, Screecher quickly stood to her feet, hoping that none of the other Immortals could see how red her face had become, and made her way back to the group. She ran a hand across her face and through her hair as she did so, sighing despondently when she almost instantly hit a knot. Alongside the rings under her eyes, Screecher had to accept that her state was deteriorating: the stress and lack of sleep from nearly three years of restlessness was starting to take its toll.

If it was her choice, she wouldn't even be out here. Mahmod was an ass for running off with the Club's money and 'stash' sure, but she had never really partaken in the use of the substance. Alcohol was one of the mortal's greatest achievements; drugs had been its greatest vice. She had crawled through enough opium dens during it's heyday to never want to touch the stuff. But never the less, catching Mahmod would be her best bet to regain at least some semblance of standing within the Club. She had called in too many favors, accumulated too much debt, and in general pissed off too many members to do otherwise. An unfortunately substantial amount of her favors belonged to Lilith, with Gerome having a fair share as well, though Lilith was the one who had insisted on Screecher coming.

She rejoined the group just in time to see Gerome pick up some of Idun's bags, Screecher herself readjusting her own sizable backpack half regretting she hadn't packed lighter, before hearing Lilith threaten Isaac.

"I will break more then just your nose."

Despite not even being the one addressed, Screecher flinched slightly. Lilith could be quite terrifying when she wanted to be (which was unfortunately quite often).

"Easy there, Lilith." Screecher interceded between the two. "It's bad enough we have to hunt down one of our own; the last thing we need is to start biting each others heads off."

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

A forgotten Temple, Tibet

The biting cold wasn't the worst part. The blinding snow storms or the suffocating air wasn't the main problem. The Chinese soldiers rampaging about the place wouldn't even hold a candle for what she had to face when she reached the precipice of the rocky slope. She gazed down as the fallen temple before her. Its stony fixtures were buried in snow, the pathways were covered in eternal ice and the rooms were as windy as Everest itself but that didn't bother her the most. Ali made the arduous climb downwards, navigating the pathways as if she was sleeping. The treacherous slips that had taken the lives of many explorers were merely cracks in sidewalk for her. Ali passed the carcass of another explorer, his body still frozen to the pick that gripped him to the snowy wall.

That's new... Ali grumbled in her head as she sidestepped the frozen body on her way to her parents. She entered the forgotten temple and navigated its frozen, stony hallways to a alcove. After pressing a stone, the wall revealed a pathway so she followed it. Ali made sure not to step on the pressure-sensitive stones as she passed through. Ali stepped over another body of an explorer whose body was riddled with arrows. Her parents always were sticklers for privacy.

"Ali!" A voice called out as she entered the "treasure room" which consisted of nothing more than a few rocks made to look like priceless artifacts on the account of their magic inscriptions. Her mother walked towards her with arms raised and wearing... next to nothing besides a robe. Ali cringed as she was hugged. Her father made her cringe even harder.

"There's my little jewel!" Her father said as he also hugged her. Ali awkwardly hugged back but her climbing gear made it slightly more bearable. "Come inside, we have some warm ale to soothe your aches and pains." Her father motioned to the open passageway, revealing a warm fire and food all around it.

"No thank you, father. I have to meet the rest of the club. You would know that if you attended their meetings." Ali said, disengaging from his hug. Ali's father towered over her which was odd considering her mother's size. His runes began to glow on his body as he crossed his arms.

"There are many reasons why I don't attend the club meetings anymore..." Her father said solemnly. "Although it does pain me to hear that Memnom and Tut has passed. Only a few people knew about the knife, even we were kept in the dark."

"You really need to join the club meetings." Ali said with a smug smile. "I can't stay long. I'm meeting the club in Mexico but-"

"But you make time for us because you need something." Her mother interjected. "Of course you do. Now that Jack has the knife, you actually want to visit us for a change. Huh, what a surprise..."

"Don't be like that." Ali argued. "In this place, the only way you can tell time is when another mortal tries to get the treasure room which is like once every dozen years by the looks of it."

"Then why have you only showed up once in a dozen years then." Her mother asked. "You're not even pregnant."

Ali controlled herself from an outburst. If she was to break the news now then it would all be over for her little plan.

"I'm working on it." Ali admitted before switching her demeanor. "There's this Immortal... extremely handsome and son of another Immortal. He's going to be in Mexico for our next meeting so I have to attend."

"I'm glad." Her mother said sarcastically. "You've said that for the last thousand years. Now why do you want-"

"Hold on" Ali said. "I wasn't finished. Jack is out there and I'm going out to help find him but I need protection."

"Protection from a knife that kills Immortals? We have better luck going to the moon." Her father said.

"You really need to get out some time." Ali said. "No, something else. Do you mind if I go through our family armory?"

------------------------------------------------

Mexico City

Ali fetched her carry-on luggage from the overhead compartment before she left the plane. Being in the back of the plane had its advantages especially when it came to taking one's time before heading off but they were in a hurry. There was nothing she could do about getting a seat at the end of the plane but soon they would be able to do something about Jack.

This time she wore a simple t-shirt and jeans, anticipating that they would actually do things while they were in Mexico. Luckily for her, tattoos were gaining considerable popularity so she didn't have to worry about covering up so her body art was on display, at least for her arm area.

Ali caught up to the others and hearing the latest thing that Screecher had to say.

"It's bad enough we have to hunt down one of our own; the last thing we need is to start biting each others heads off."

"Speaking about biting, I'm starving." Ali butt in, trying to settle some of the rising tension. "I really hope airline food gets better over time. I can't imagine having to deal with that garbage for the next few decades. Gag me with a spoon..."

She fetched the rest of her luggage but seeing as how they were all strapped for cash these days, all Ali fetched was a rolling bag. It gave off a thud once it hit the ground. Ali rifled through it, making sure all her things were still there and then fetching a lighter along with a flask.

"Ah, I missed you." Ali muttered as she readied herself.

"Let's get a place by the beach." Ali suggested to the group, slightly excited for the prospect of the adventure in Latin America. "Y'know... positioning and all."

 

[booksv2]

one year after the funeral

Stepping off the boat that had brought him to the isle of Lewis just off the coast of Scotland Jack waves at the men who can carried him over. Stepping down the wharf and slowly walking he uses his cane to help himself, his feet heavy and his back still hunched slightly. The weight of sadness and memory's weighing on him and bringing to mind hundreds of deaths from the past.

Stepping off the wharf and onto a small patch of earth Jack steps into the town just long enough to find a hostel and rent a room for a dozen nights before stepping out and leaving the town. Waving at a few of the people out and about Jack makes his slow way along the edge of the isle. Looking out over the ocean and the beach's he looks for one specific figure, someone who had been holding out here on the isle for many many year.

Smiling to himself as Jack see's a figure camped out on a beach way down by the waves he slowly makes his way down the broken pathway to the beach. His suit very much out of place as he walks down next to the person and groans softly as he sits down. Looking out over the ocean as the other person drinks from a wooden mug that looks like it has seem many years. Speaking softly as the man lowers his mug Jack stares at the ocean.

"Long time Seonaidh, do they still offer up ale and drink to you?"

The man looks over and holds out the mug to Jack who takes it and lifts it to his lips. Unlike usual where he would take a large drink he only sips this before handing it back and coughing into his hand.
"Wow, its stronger than ever."

The man smile and takes a deep drink before answering back.

"Yes it is, iv been practicing for a looooong time. And no, not many still offer me drinks for seaweed to make their fields rich and prosperous."

Jack nods and pulls out a well worn flask to take a sip and offer to Seonaidh, the mix inside just as intense as what he is drinking but not in the pure taste and percentage of alcohol. As Seonaidh does take it and takes a sip Jack talks softly and slow.
"You didn't go to the funeral, i know some people missed you and your surprisingly potent drinks there."

After taking his drink and handing the flask back to Jack Seonaidh sighs and waves his hand.
"You know i never go to any meetings, in fact i never leave the island here. Though even here i have heard some disturbing news. Is it true the other Jack was let loose and got away?"

Jack winces and nods. Taking a much bigger drink before answering.
"Yes, they let the Ripper out and he got away. With a knife that can kill us."
Looking over for the first time to look at Seonaidh he makes a slight move against his own throat.
"That was how Memnon died."


Seonaidh nods and leans back on his hands to look up at the sky.
"Almost none of the club ever comes here. That is because for the most part i keep myself away and i can't leave."

Jack nods and slowly stands. Rummaging through his jacket and pulling out a metal flask with an owl on it and hands it down to Seonaidh.
"Would you mind filling that with your special supply? It is for a friend who has never tasted your drinks before."

Standing and taking the flask from Jack Seonaidh walks over to a small cave and walks in before seeming to disappear. Waiting outside and staring at the ocean as he does Jack can hear some low sounds in the cliff behind him. Hearing someone walking out and turning to smile at Seonaidh as he comes back out Jack walks slower and takes the 2 flasks offered. Looking at the other in surprise.

"One for her and one for you. Now go, i know you do so hate to stay in one place for to long and my isle here does not offer much for someone as travel loving as you."

Jack smiles in agreement and apology. Putting them both in his jacket and brushing his clothes off as best he can Jack waves at Seonaidh before turning and making his way back up the broken trail. Having to use his cane to make his way up when he is at the top his shoulders are not as slumped as before. Making his way back to the town and staying in the room for another week Jack takes the next boat out and back to the mainlands.

Mexico

Having been found and asked to go to Mexico to help out on finding someone Jack grudgingly agreed after some very old debts were called into question. Leaving America where he had just gotten to try out the whiskey they were so proud of there he made it to Mexico quicker than many of the others who the messenger said would probably be coming. Getting there early and setting up some rooms in a better than average hotel a few miles from the airport that they were going to be coming in on.

Renting a limo and charging it to the same account number he had been told to use for the hotel Jack had it waiting at the airport as he himself was just inside the luggage grab. Watching the group of newly arrived immortals as there is some arguing and a little pushing as they all get off he was so glad he did not have to use such a way to travel.

Waiting for a minute for them all to get off, and Screecher to pick herself up off the ground, Jack slowly walks over. It had been just a few years since he had last seen them it looked like it wore on quite a few of them more than it should have. Stopping a dozen feet away and hearing them talking about needing a place to stay he coughing into his hand ,Jack looks at the group and bangs his cane on the floor to get their attention.

"Lady's, Gentlemen. I came first of us and i rented some choice rooms at a hotel not to far away. Plus a limo to take us and your luggage there in style and out of this heat."

Turning sideways and motioning towards the front of the building with one hand.
"shall we?"

 

[PlastikThief]

Mexico

Shanna was not pleased. It wasn't the heat, they were used to that, and it wasn't the confined space of the plane, nor the unnatural tiredness that lingered long after they should have been aware. It was the whole mission. the stink of it rankled their nostrils and curled their lips. Not all the caffeine and liquor in the world could keep Shanna from wanting to punch the next person who suggested they do anything that wasn't just get the whole damn thing over with with as little discomfort as possible.

One of the few upsides was the fashion of this era (short and revealing), combined with the heat, people were looking horrible attractive to Shanna's sleep addled and plane-liquor fueled mind. Most noticeable, Lillith, who's overbearing crooning of the dwarf was already beginning to drive Shanna up the wall.

"Lady's, Gentlemen. I came first of us and I rented some choice rooms at a hotel not to far away. Plus a limo to take us and your luggage there in style and out of this heat. Shall we?"

"I'm not a lady, but i'll forgive you this time because of the limo." Shanna said, striding past Jack with their bag in their hand, the loose shawl they had wrapped around themself billowing in their wake.

 

[drmigit2]

Naditabirus was sitting on top of the Aztec temple that Vlad had escaped from three years ago. She sighed wistfully as she stared at the letters he had been sending her. Mostly poetry about love and whatnot, even if he was a murderer, the Vampire king was romantic. The final one however, was not poetry. It was fairly simple, Shen had stopped tracking him, likely due to Mahmod?s disappearance, and he would be using this time to disappear into Argentina. Naditabirus realized how close that meant Vladimir must be, and couldn?t stop staring at the note. She would have to decide soon, really soon. Could she really throw the club away for a monster? It was hard to decide, she had even forgotten about the knife, though it was partially due to her hearing about how Caedryn?s wounds healed, even at a mild delay. Not a scar had been left, which meant the knife was not legit. Memnon was probably alive somewhere, but that didn?t matter. Naditabirus had more important things to worry about than whatever it was the king of Ethiopia had planned. Frankly he could do whatever he wanted, as far as she was concerned.

Naditabirus had not left Mexico since Vladimir showed up, largely because she wanted to keep getting his letters, but also because she couldn?t think of a reason to go anywhere else. When she heard Mahmod went missing, she figured it was mildly convenient he had managed to disappear in Mexico. Most of the club would be there to gather drugs or money, or whatever else. Naditabirus didn?t need cocaine right now, she didn?t need anything. She had started eating again, she could at least humor Vlad on that request. She wondered how ragged Shen must be, he was almost as determined as she was.


Mexico City

The Lich was reading a few articles off newspapers that were for sale at the airport. Mostly about the future of space exploration and what that had to offer. The Soviets were in space, and that was cool, America was getting close as well. They were dubbing it the ?Space Race?, which was almost as creative as Hotel Cabana. Naditabirus saw the group get off their respective planes and quickly meet up. She saw the group arguing, which was good. She could use it, move the conversation and get this over as quickly as possible. She was wearing sunglasses, because eyer eyes were too puffy at this point, and she didn?t want to make eye contact with Shen, who had to be here by now.

Ali was proposing to get food, which Naditabirus would normally detest, but now she figured was better than talking. She approached Ali and Screecher, along with Lilith and everyone else. Naditabirus faked a smile as best she could and said ?Good to see the flight went properly. Been hearing some ghastly stories about what can happen when they go awry.?

 

[Mr.Ivebeenframed]

"Good to see the flight went properly. Been hearing some ghastly stories about what can happen when they go awry."

"Ah, pleasant it is seeing you again." Ali said, reciprocating with her own fake smile and demeanor. "I do hope we find what we are looking for in this country. Mexico... this one's relatively new compared to the others or I could be wrong. Let's get going shall we?"

Ali rolled her bag to where Jack was and where the offered limo was. "Thank you very much, Jack." Ali said, giving the man a kiss on the cheek. "If we walked, we'd end up tearing this city upside down." She strode confidently to the Limo, seeing Shanna there as well. She looked a bit on the grumpy side so she avoided her for now and loaded up her luggage.

 

[Frission]

"Lady's, Gentlemen. I came first of us and I rented some choice rooms at a hotel not to far away. Plus a limo to take us and your luggage there in style and out of this heat. Shall we?"

Shenshen thoughts were interrupted by this declaration, but he didn't mind, He hadn't slept, eaten or drunk anything for three years and he could definitely go for some rest. Besides that Jack has always done his best to be polite and considerate and he shouldn't let his problems make him ungrateful. He took a deep breath. There was a high chance that this trip to Mexico would be disastrous and would be a setback in his hunt for the two rogue immortals, but he should at least try to enjoy this vacation with the other immortals. Most of whom looked as stressed or as tired as him. He hadn't gone to Mexico before and this should be fun. True the sun was strong enough that he felt like he was dying, but he saw that many of the locals were wearing various hats to make up for that. He could take this opportunity to get himself a sombrero! Shenshen calmed down.

Shenshen decided to address himself to Jack and say "Thank you for your help Jack". He also got the hotel's address from him, since he would need to make an arrangement with a separate car to bring the totality of his baggage to the hotel.

He called for someone reliable from Marco to bring the Iron box to him. When that was done he surveyed his traveling companions, since he hadn't talked to any of them in quite a while. Caderyn looked healthy enough and was one of the few who wasn't complaining (something that put Shenshen to shame), Ali was as graceful as ever, Screecher looked a little peaked and was talking to Lilith. Isaac, Gerome and Idun were milling around and Shanna had shut herself in the Limo.

There was also one more immortal, which he almost didn't recognize due to her sunglasses. Naditabirus was here, although he hadn't see her on the plane. Then again, he had heard she had gone back to live in the Americas, so she might just have taken a car here.

Shenshen passed Ali, but didn't have time to greet her before she headed out for the limo.

Good to see the flight went properly. Been hearing some ghastly stories about what can happen when they go awry.

"Yes, planes are fascinating devices aren't they? I can remember the surprise of everyone including the immortals, when man was first able to take to the air. Anyway, our trip went well. How have the Americas been treating you?"

Shenshen briefly entertained the idea of asking Nadibarius if she had been contacted by Vlad, since it was only with her help that Shenshen had been able to capture the Impaler in the first place. However he judged that as unlikely, rude and too heavy a subject for the airport.

Shenshen also noted with some happiness that Naditabirus looked slightly healthier (although considering their last meeting the immortal was coked out of their mind, an improvement wouldn't be that hard). He noticed on the forefront of her newspaper that there was something called a "space race" going on. Interesting, he might ask the other immortals about that later.

 

[JoJo]

"We get the rest of our luggage, and we find a nice hotel to stay at," Lilith bent down towards Cadeyrn, a kind smile on her face, "I'll get you some hot chocolate too,"

"Good," Cadeyrn said tiredly as the limousine arrived, he dived in and slouched besides a window, Lilith followed him, throwing his bag besides him.

"Don't forget this," she winked. The rest of the club piled in and then the limo sped down the streets, weaving in-and-out of street sellers and pedestrians.

Finally the limousine reached a great carved marble building, the name 'Las Alcobas' stuck on the front in neon letters. Cadeyrn stepped out of the car almost in a dream, he hadn't stayed in a building so luxurious since the time he'd broken into Buckingham Palace. When they walked inside he saw several wooden staircases spiralling up to the distance, fine carpets and rugs decking the floors and a veritable army of bellboys and security guards manning the entrance. Cadeyrn explored the lobby as the others booked their rooms, finding a water fountain towards the back. He started splashing water over the edge and onto the otherwise immaculate floor, a concierge quickly made his way over with a pained expression on his face.

"Are you accompanied, young man?" he asked snootily in Spanish but before Cadeyrn had a chance to reply Lilith hastily walked up and took the boy by the arm. "Is this your... son, madam?" the concierge added with a small start of surprise.

"Yes, we have our room number here," she replied quickly and flashed a card in front of the man before half-dragging Cadeyrn away up the stairs, their bags held in her other hand. "Shhh Cad, you have to behave," she hissed. "This place is fancy, none of your tricks this time!"

"Are we sharing a room?" Cadeyrn asked with a tired nod, giving up on trying to extract his hand from her firm grasp.

"Yeah, better you than certain other club members who offered," she replied, flashing an angry glance back at Isaac.

"Okay," Cadeyrn yawned, right now he didn't care much. Once they reached the room, he flopped down onto his bed without even changing his clothes and within a couple of minutes was snoring peacefully oblivious to the world.

 

[TheIronRuler]

Gerome was relieved to find the hotel services included valets, who were kind enough to carry their luggage into their rooms. The knight had often thought of courting the beautiful and pale Idun, but he never found the right thing to say. They were both standing at the reception, deciding on how to divide their rooms among themselves.

'Darn it', Idun frowned as she watched Cad being dragged away, 'Lilith is already gone'.

Now is your chance, Gerome, Carpe Diem!

'Err... I... Would you... Ehm... like to, err, be with...', he was desperately stumbling for words, unable to form even the simplest of sentences.

'Oh, Ali's here', Idun remembered and her frown tuned into a half-hearted smile, 'I could stay with her'.

Gerome's heart sank and crashed on the floor, the breath taken right out of him. The woman he wanted so deeply didn't even hear his love confession. He nearly fell back on his arse when Isaac came up behind him and placed his hand firmly on his shoulder.

'He got you too, eh, sir knight?', the behemoth chuckled at his own joke.

'Well, not exactly', Gerome hurridly replied, 'I was worried about Mahmod, I... I don't partake in his substances'.

Isaac curled his lips, his face leering sudeways at Gerome. 'Mahmod had friends? Why I never... you learn something new every day', Isaac bellowed and laughed, smacking his stomach with his other hand.

'We knew each other for a long time', Gerome mumbled, trying his best to get away from the obviously drunk Isaac.

Gerome knew Mahmod for most of his long life, and would have ended up under the Vatican cellars for the past seven centuries had the alchemist not extended his protection on him. For that he was grateful, and for all of the time they shared. Gerome looked up at Isaac and cringed at the approaching request. Sharing a room with that drunken jew was the last thing he wanted to do this century, right down the list after a host of new inventive ways to die.

 

[Baddamobs]

"Lady's, Gentlemen. I came first of us and i rented some choice rooms at a hotel not to far away. Plus a limo to take us and your luggage there in style and out of this heat."

I should really stretch my legs after that long plane ride... Screecher grimaced for a second, before eventually shrugging. Ah, screw it. This heat was bad enough: even with the large sun hat she had on, she wasn't looking forward to walking about the place. She might as well take what luxuries she could while she had the chance. She saw Naditabirus as she crossed the street, Shen talking to her at the time. The ex-owl thought it was odd she was here at all, but it wasn't new for the Immortal to disappear off, and re-appear at the most odd times.

Thanking Jack as she crawled into the car, she largely sat in silence during the drive. She wasn't aware of if the others talked or not: she was lost in thought, starring out of the window watching the city go by.

This whole escapade smelled rotten to her: everything that happened after that damn museum did. It seemed that every day (more of figure of speech, since she was hardly aware of what day of the week it was) brought something new that only complicated matters further. It felt like every step she took could lead to pit where she could never crawl out of. More then that though, something about 'Nadi' arriving troubled Screecher.

Not the Immortal herself, no, there was...something she said. Screecher had been told something by her, a fact that had troubled her at the time.

Damn it, it's on the tip of my tongue... Screecher frowned as she felt the car pull to a halt. She would come back to this train of thought.

She would give humanity one thing: when it wanted to be extravagant, it knew how to do it style. The whole of the lobby felt like it had been cleaned seconds before the Immortals had walked in, and the sheer size and decorated nature of the room simply screamed wealth.

Screecher watched as Lilith secured Cadeyrn, much to Screecher's approval. Lilith was reliable: she wouldn't let the little fae out her sight.

However, it looked like they would need to share rooms. Wherever Jack had recived the funds for this hotel of their's, it clearly wasn't bottomless.

Alright...which one would causes the least amount of trouble. The ex-owl swept her gaze over their 'merry band.' Shenshen looked ready to bite someone's head off, Isaac would drink more then double his body weight before the evening was done likely, Naditabirus could be a little 'odd' for her tastes....

"Shanna!" Screecher hurried over to the other Immortal, a hopefully not too desperate smile on her face. While having a fair share of 'oddities' to their name, Shanna was likely the most successful for keeping out of trouble. Perfect for the ex-owl's purposes. "How about you and I bunk for the night, hmm?"

 

[PlastikThief]

As the rest of them piled into the limo, either swearing about the heat or the help or only god knows what else, Shanna poured themself a drink and stared into the distance. The city flew by, dirty and crowded. Shanna desperately wanted to avoid their responsibilities to their kin and go find a bar or a club that would allow them to wallow in the mass of humanity.

But there was little chance of a peaceful outing when the immortals were involved.

The hotel was gratuitously ostentatious, all marble arches and detailed rugs from the orient, aspects that were so intrinsically at odds with each other aesthetically that Shanna stole a bottle from the limo in order to maintain their sanity.

"Shanna! How about you and I bunk for the night, hmm?"

This was an improvement. The coffers were obviously not endless, and the Wise One was certainly pleasurable to the eye and ear, despite her chosen name.

"I would like that very much Screecher." The Librarian smiled widely,, taking a quick swig from the wine they had procured. "The men will deal with our luggage, would you care to join me for a drink or a bite to eat?"