"...Lupinius..."

His head jerks up, looking off into the night. It had been a whispered voice, not an open call, but he had heard it nonetheless. He scowls momentarily, abruptly wishing he had not given his name so openly to someone. Being able to hear someone say your name no matter where you are can, after a while, get annoying, if too many people know it.

But then, he reflects, it can also have its uses.

The call does not come again, and so he goes back to the object of his night's exercise - a small, almost unobtrusive man dressed in black, moving silently through the streets below him of the West End. This one had been meeting with another, and Lupinius had seen monies pass between them, furtively.

Curious more than concerned, Lupinius had been following this one - the one who had been paid - as he had wandered the West End.

"...Lupinius..."

He looks up again. Louder this time. Is someone looking for him"

Abruptly, he stands. Time to see what this is all about.

He closes his eyes and focuses, then steps over the edge of the roof into the air - only instead of falling, continues walking as though on solid ground.

To the outside observer, his form wavers slightly as he takes another step...then another - into thin air. His form shimmers, fades, then vanishes entirely in moments.

From his point of view, it is as if the world fades and wavers into blackness, as though he were walking down a dark corridor made of water (which is what it almost feels like, as well - as if he were stepping into water which alternates between hot and cold almost too fast to be able to discern the temperature changes) before brightening again into...

...the Red Dragon Inn.

Or rather, just outside the front door.

Facing him is a young girl, not much older than teenage years, leaning casually against the entrance. She steps forward and bows at the waist slightly.

"You'd be Lupinius?"

He nearly confirms without thinking - after all, he'd appeared when called, so what?s the use of denying it' - but instead chooses a different tack. "Who wants to know?"

As if she were expecting this, she smiles and bows to him again slightly. "Mr. Brian Ravenlock formally requests your prescence at the Ravenlock Compound, north of the city, in the Forest of Rhy'Din. If you accept this invitation, meet him there in five day's time." She hands him a slip of paper. "These are directions to the place." She smiles brightly, bows once more, and abruptly vanishes into the Inn.

"Hey, wait a min..." He looks up from the slip of paper to find himself talking to air. Pursuit would be useless - such couriers know the trick of vanishing into crowds all too well, he knows.

Brian Ravenlock. He had heard of him, knew the man by reputation and had even seen him in the Inn a time or two, though he had never approached the man himself. Lupinius had not thought that the esteemed Brian Ravenlock would know who he was - unless this was a Scathachian matter, that is. He had heard whisperings that his consort was one of the more influential sisters.

His curiousity piqued - for the second time that night - he doesn't take long to reach his decision to go. It couldn't hurt, at any rate, to hear what was to be said.

:;Shea was often amazed by the way news got about to her when she was away. Not a day back and all ready she had a meeting to attend, she had picked up an invite at the Red Dragon Inn. Addressed plainly to One Shea GreenStone. Shea smirked softly to she and Victor hadn't even been back a full day yet and now she was back to business. Shea had not even had the chance to think about planning when the wedding for Rhydin would be set. And now she would focus on the task at hand. The invite was to go to the Ravenlock Compound. Shea looked to the letter addressed with directions, and noted to herself to make sure to make this a very careful trip. If many were invited all those involved with this battle in the West end then it would be a great target for the foe, whom ever that foe was.::

:; Green cloaks hood was drawn high over her face as she walked. The Northern Forest of Rhy'din.Shea knew them well she had passed through them time and time again o her way to and from home. Her boots slid without a sound along the path way, through the trees she would make her way making the winds die down around her, making sure that not a soul followed her. She had no idea the Ravenlocks had such a compound perhaps it had been built as of lately. Shea had been gone a little over a week and she knew nothing had changed only gotten worse.::

::Bright jade hues looked forward through the trees she could see the compound with those Elven ears. She was certain she would arrive early, but that was Shea's way. She had come by foot leaving her horse at that No Name Inn of hers. She walked with those long slow stirdes. The strides of a warriorshea was well armed as she always was,a dagger and two swords, sheathed tightly to her right and left under ger cloak. And even with out those wepaons at her side she ahd her magic.



::She heard a voice then her ears twitched she knew that voice. Shea knew that the sisters would be here, and her jade hues took in the compound and the two at the door, Isulet and a male she did not know. At least she wasn't the first or last to arrive. Now the winds would blow and she would make her way towards the compound. Past the gates lowering that cloaks hood now with gloved fingers.::

"I had no idea such a place existed in Rhydin.." :: She had seen many great things here, the Sanctuary had blown her mind, the castles and places hidden from view seemed all the more wonderful and dangerous::

::Shea stood a few feet back looking over the place and then back to the doors,slient steps had taken her here and now the winds surrounded her. Gloved hands moved out of the folds of that dark green cloak that hid everything under it, save for those black boots that rested upon the ground. Shea laid in waiting also for the doors to open she would great Isulet and the male with her with a bow of her head.::

"Miss Isulet" :: Jade hues looked back over the compound. Shea was watching the surround with that Elven gaze as the winds that always surrounded her form blew her dark locks behind her Elven ears. At least here she was among friends, she wondered who else would be here. How many had gotten that invite to come here and discuss things that were long past the point of mere discussion.::

::Those winds moved around the Elven mage, as she stood there a few inches back blowing through her cloak. Shea in classic style was in her classic wears, form fitting fight worthy clothing, those sheathed arms at her sides seen, she hoped that this meeting would go without incident, but she was a knight she would not idly go any where without a weapon at her side. Even some where as safe as this place looked. Her gloves she pulled off and tucked away, shifting her bare fingers back in to the folds of her cloak, but not before they raced through her hair, the slight shine of those rings upon her finger of her left hand, shown in the light for a moment before the darkness of those folds took her hands in. She stood still, almost unnaturally still, as she watched the surround, with those piercing jade hues. She was looking for anything that slunk through shadows in those woods, any foul scent upon those winds. More than ready for this meeting to begin and others to arrive, she would feel much better oddly enough in a room of allies who were well armed than out side at the moment::

Brian had not needed a note to contact Wyheree. He had only to think of needing her presence at this meeting, through the bond they had since the day they met. She appeared in a swirl of icy mist, in a clear spot about 20 feet from the entrance of the Compound that Brian set aside just for this purpose. It would never do to phase into a tree..

The reason for this meeting was clear. The person terrorizing the West End, using the Sisters as scapegoats, had to be found, and brought to justice - the sort of justice found at the receiving end of her ice blasts. She had been busier since her wedding - in fact, the details of the first murders were hidden from her so as not to spoil her magical day. Hearing of the rampage at Ewan's disgusted her, and she wanted to lend her skills and magic to the battle against this foul creature, or creatures.

As she headed up the path, she saw she was not the first to arrive for this gathering. She smiled and waved to Shea, and Issy. The man closest to the door received a smile and a nod, as she did not know him, but if he was here, she knew he was an ally.

The huge specimen Issy was leaning against, that was a sight Wyh never dreamed she would see. The surprise danced across her silver eyes as she paused near the Scathachian Elder, almost having to stand on tip toes to take in the enormous man by her side. A light breeze stirred her pale hair, catching her skirts as they flowed over her ankles, the white and silver garment shimmering in the light.

"It has been far too long since I have seen you, Issy - and I see much has changed." She was grinning as she inclined her head towards Issy's companion.

Eddie lurked in the shadows, following the directions on the parchment clutched in her left hand. Bare feet made no sound as she twisted her way through the woods. Upon her initiation, she had been given the name Diana - an ancient goddess of the hunt in another world, swift of foot, deadly of aim, merciless to those who would dare harm those under her protection. After the horror left on the Sanctuary's front lawn, Issy had kept Eddie somewhat sheltered from the worst of the murders, telling her the facts, without the graphic descriptions of the gore and torture. Because of this, Eddie was sleeping better, able to rest without Jenai's medicines. She patrolled tirelessly, either alongside one or more of her Sisters - usually Akemi or Trixie, or alone, depending on her mood. She kept to the shadowy alleys, saving more than one poor soul from mugging, or worse, as she dug for clues to the identity of their tormentor.

As she neared the compound, a little smile played about her lips. The Ravenlock Compound reminded her of another one, on the other side of town...She looked over the current group - the guy at the door she didn't know, the Elven lady - didn't know her either, the tall pale lady - had to be the Ice Queen she heard about, and of course, Issy and Scorpion - nice to see them together still, though it made her giggle. She moved silently, to stand behind Issy and Scorpion, waiting for her presence to be felt by her Elder, or heard as she held back the giggles - Issy with a boyfriend was just too much..

A soft rumble and smile was given to Shea as her friend stood by her side and a nod to Eddie, before returning her attention to Shea.

That I am my friend, I've been so tired lately and when I was checked, it showed that I've more little ones on the way.

He approaches the compound in his lupine form, a huge, silvery-gray timber wolf, with brilliant, sapphire blue eyes and wearing a heavy-looking collar of thick, beaten silver, from which dangles an amulet of jet-black stone. The animal stands over three feet tall, its stride long and loping as it approaches the group gathered outside the Ravenlock compound. As he nears, the amulet glows, violet light glowing and brightening from it, flashing brilliantly before fading and revealing Lupinius in his more normal form.

His eyes wander across the group as he approaches, choosing to appear this time dressed in an outfit that shows an uncharacteristically casual side with a twist of darker humor to it - blue denim jeans, grey leather boots, a black t-shirt that says simply, "Everything I Need To Know About Life I Learned From Killing Smart People And Eating Their Brains."

There are faces here unfamiliar to him - a woman with white hair, a man who towers over even him at his height, and - most interesting of all - a dragon. He's seen them before, but never at a meeting. The others - Shea, Isuelt, the Empress, and the young one - he's run into before.

Sapphire eyes wander amongst them a moment more, before turning his attention to the compound. The name is fitting - the place reminds him a bit of a lot of the fortresses he'd seen in his days of wandering the world.

He can guess the purpose of this meeting readily enough - what to do about all the recent attacks, both on innocents and on the Sisters themselves. If the people already assembled are any indication, then they should have quite a formidable force with which to do something - though he has his doubts as to whether they can do anything about it. Were he the one behind all of this, he'd have been anticipating a meeting of this sort.

He walks over to a nearby tree, a thick, old oak, and leans against it, apart from the rest of the group, watching them. From deep within his sapphire eyes comes a flicker of violet light.

Jewell looked aside at Issy, her easy going smile dropping. It was just an act anyways, a little facade to break up the serious situation they all found themselves in. She felt for her friend, she truly did, knowing that most of the burden for this entire hellish scenario fell on her shoulders as the leader of the Scathachian Sisters in RhyDin.

The problem was, Jewell was fairly sure that if their enemy (enemies?) was as good as The Empress thought she was (and their was sufficient evidence to support the idea that their enemy was more than good) than she already knew about this little get together. Maybe she didn't know the details but it wasn't out of the realm of possibility that she did: every last one down to who was invited, where it was taking place, and when. It didn't make Jewell feel too comfortable about actually having this war council take place but she was fairly sure that they could at least ensure whatever was said within the walls of the compound would be fairly secretive, at least for a little while.

She kept all these thoughts to herself, though, just giving Issy a tight smile as if to say, "My lips are sealed." She didn't even greet her sisters or any of the other allies that had shown up for this most important event save to give Eddie and Scorp both a nod hello. She was eager to get things started, knowing the process could take some time with this many minds coming together to share their opinions of what needed to be done. She rather hoped that there would be more listening done on most of their parts than speaking, though. Her tolerance for diplomatic-style discussions had been exhausted years ago, she much preferred action these days.

::Sheas jade hues looked to Isulet, nodding she was right. This was not the inn and there was no time for pleasantries. Shea tucked her hair behind her ears and then was silent. If there was one thing she was good at besides what she could do all ready it was being silent. Jade hues looked towards that oak tree in the disntance, nodding to Lupinus.::

::Shea had sensed him coming,but would do nothing more than nod, before her gaze returned to the door.If this meeting was found out by any of those foes, they would have but one move to make to take everyone out that opposed them, but Shea also knew that would be one hell of a fight, and anyone even as dark and evil as this foe was would have to be rather dumb to pull any attack on this place::

Jewell was undeniably the sister who did not like Kerri. However, she didn't seem too upset to see the Mithra open the doors to the compound and invite them all in. The kitten comments directed at Scorp did have her rolling her eyes as she made the move to follow Kerri inside.

"Good-day, Kerri," she offered a faint smile to her, trying to be amiable.

A quick look round at the room Kerri had led them into before she found a spot and made herself comfortable, at home as it were. She folded her arms behind her head and appraised the Mithra for a moment, "Where is dear Big Brother and how long do we have to wait until we can get the ball rolling?"

Isuelt's words bring another sparkle of violet fire to his eyes. He is not one for pleasantries, not even giving his name to those he is not absolutely sure he can trust. How Ravenlock had gotten his name, he is still not sure - probably from one or another of the sisters - but as he is associated closely with the Sisters themselves, he is not too bothered by it.

He enters behind the group, keeping himself - as is his own custom - apart from the rest. He's never been comfortable in a group, not since the old days with the rest of the Guardians, and even then he had been with the circle but not truly a part of it. He had hoped Trixie might show - at least then there would have been someone here he could relate to on some level. Still, there's Shea, whom he senses might be the only person here who actually trusts him. He bows his head slightly to her as they enter the compound, a ghost of a smile touching his lips as he looks away and around the inside of the fortress. He's not bothered by the fact that to most here, he is regarded with suspicion at best and open distrust at the worst - to him, being what he is, that is merely another fact of life. He merely smiles and nods quietly to those who deign to notice him, doing his best to project an image of silent, accepting confidence.

He's impressed - he had expected something more grandiose, and is pleased to see that the compound lives up to its name. This room, at least, is set up for a council of war. And appropriately so - that is what they are here for.

He finds himself an open place against the wall of the room to stand and leans, casually, against it, crossing his arms over his chest and closing his eyes, using his other senses to observe the room, absorbing the room and the prescence of the others within it.

(Sorry about mixing up your post, Icer. ^^ Had to delete my arrival....some confusion as to the setting.)

As uncomfortable as the detective is with the woods outside the city, he takes a roundabout path to the compound. It's very cold, but still he only wears a nondescript black hoodie, hood drawn up, hands in his pockets, his weapon somewhere out of sight, possibly tucked into the back of his jeans. He emerges from the woods shortly after Erin, keeping a little distance from her initially, one of the last to file into the compound. Once inside, he is still hesistant to lower his hood. This is quite a gamble....and truth be told, he's a little ticked Brian held this meeting. He was tempted not to show up, but the need to find out where everyone stands and what the plans are, overrides his paranoia.

With his eyes closed,he can tell so much more about the various people in the room. Someone once told him that the eyes are the least trustworthy of the senses, for what you see can be deceiving in so many ways, going so far as to override the other senses, when the owner relies on them too much. Of all his senses, he relies on his eyes the least.

He can feel so many things from the others - fear, distrust, suspicion, hope, determination, curiousity - even a touch of paranoia from a new arrival, which he finds curious but not intriguing enough to open his eyes just yet. But mostly, they are tired. Tired of being taunted, of being under seige by this dark threat that none of them can seem to ferret out. Even he, with all of the considerable tools at his disposal, has only been able to get hints and clues about the nature of this evil that stalks them in their own homes. It occurs to him that perhaps the only reason he hasn't been come after himself is because whoever was doing this would have to make a direct attack upon him themselves - he is not vulnerable the same way they are, after all. All of these people have ties in this place, things that can be used to make them vulnerable.

He has only himself - an attack on any of the ones here to get to him would be useless, except perhaps to anger him. And an attack on him directly would be foolish - were he to survive, he would know more perhaps than the evil behind this would want.

A clever enemy, these people have. It is nearly impossible to fight back against that which you cannot see or reach.

Finally, he opens his eyes again, focusing his attention on the occupants of the room. It will be interesting to see what they come up with.

Fashionably late...or just in time" The Harlequin was usually a straggler.

She was the second wolf to arrive tonight, trotting across the now cleared out courtyard, following the scents of the others assembled. Her form had been picked out for speed, as well as for the maneuvering it provided. With her canine stature, she'd successfully slipped through streets, legs, brush, and trees with ease, skulking along quickly on black paws with tufts of blonde fur on the digits. Really, for leaving a good twenty minutes after the other Sisters, she'd made good time.

Obviously no ordinary wild dog, the large, black wolf, with blonde patches on her chest, face, and feet, entered in through the open doors, coming upon the group. Almost all familiar scents welcomed her, the unknowns provided by the staff of the compound and the few allies she'd yet to meet. Afterall, Trixie's schedule didn't exactly match up with everyone else's.

She froze, with one paw lifted, the emerald eyes running along the people lingering around the walls and in the center of the room. In her teeth was a sizeable blue bag, which twisted around in the air as she observed for another heartbeat. Then, without any "How-do-you-do's?, she scampered off towards a nook or a cranny, in order to change. Fur was so last season.

"Welcome friends of WestEnd! Thank you for showing-wowing! My name is Jeskola, and if you come with me we can relax just a bit while, the hall is readied!"

*The smallish Taru-taru, once known as Jes-zillah the Taru-killah gave a most respectful bow to the arrivals, from his position just aside the doorway in the foyer. On the whole, while Jes was a fully trained, decorated battle mage, and was responsible for the decimation of over a dozen stalls in the market place via a Firaga II spell, couple with Hastaga, he still looked like a two and a half foot tall, teddy bear plushie...Kinda like a semi Teddy Ruxpin, dressed as a black mage carrying a battle scythe...Kinda.

Of course this lead to problems at times, when it came to Jes. Little kids wanting to cuddle, people poking at him in a curious nature, cute girls who wanted to plant the little Taru in their lap, and gently stro— Okay, maybe it isn't all so bad. But, that isn't the point anymore. Back to the scenario.

Jes motioned the arrivals into the main hall, which truth be told didn't look so great at the time. While the compound was a sight to behold from the outside, and carried the look of citadel and more so, inside it was still a work in progress, as boxes and crated were set about, luckily in a most orderly fashion.

Steps from the foyer lead into the main hall, which carried a forested decor, courtesy of one JenJen the Terrible. In the center of the hall, was a fountain, yes a fountain. It was in the shape a large oak tree, and extended easily in height to the second floor, as branches swept out overhead, a light mist could be seen drifting from the leaves, settling upon the fifteen foot radial pool that encircled the tree itself. Intricate carvings of various creatures from another land altogether, some familiar and some not. A gift from the Kingdom of Windhurst, Jeskola's home in Vana'diel.

Just beyond that was the master stairs, which lead upwards roughly twelve feet or so and then split off, with another set going to the right, and left of the main stairs. This lead to the second floor, which at present due to the foliage could not be made out, save the extended balconies which stretched outwards, to the left and right of the tree, and could easily allow one to reach out and literally touch of climb the royal oak. Again, a work in progress. Still, if someone by chance did look up, they might see a pair of Macaws looking down upon them, or a flash of fiery red hair slipping among the branches, as a certain red headed beastie gave chace to one bothersome howler monkey. Jes looked up a bit, and simply sighed.* "Cursed Howler Monkey."

*Little furried hands reached up, and tugged to his mage robes a bit, as the Taru waved as much as he could to keep attention, and proceeded to a set of double doors to the left of the great tree, which lead into a large family room, that was simply in design, featuring a large fire place that centered in the far wall, several couches, and love seats, various tables with varied drinks, and trays of foods, and a few book shelves for measure, of course some boxes were stacked against some of the walls as well, but hardly in the way. Another testament to the job not being done. Jes bow yet again, and motioned inside to all*

"Right this way please, everyone."

*And a special Taru-Waru smile for Jewell was given by the two and a half foot terror of the Elshino Lowlands.*

"Lady Ravenlock, your brother Raven-Sama will be here in just a moment, he was readying the meeting hall, and Jenai should be around....Should she catch that cursed monkey...I hate monkeys."

"I was told we have others coming, so please be just a tad patient. If anyone needs anything, just let me know, and I will take care of it. Unless...It has to do with monkeys...I hate monkeys."

During the walk, Kerri vanished once more to gods know where. Jes, remained with the gathered, and awaited Brian and the new arrivals, which it seemed had arrived in the form of Alain, Trixie and Erin,Ewan. Jes waves them over in turn, and smiled warmly.

After greeting all those he knew and being hurriedly introduced to all the rest, Scorp turned and followed Isuelt into the large Compound owned by the badass Brian Ravenlock and his lovely Scathachian counterpart, Jenai Angelique.

After hearing Issy call the crew to order outside, he knew without a doubt that she still had every bit of her infamous moxie. A slight smile on his face as he neatly stroked his goatee with a single gloved hand, before moving into this impressive structure.

The Don Mega looked back only once as they moved inwards, then he refocused his gaze straight ahead.

He had to admit it.

Scorp was quite glad that it was time to begin the show. Strangely enough, it felt good to be out of the open, and moreover, out of the potential view of one seriously twisted and dangerous psychopath.

::Shea follwoed the others in,jade heus taking account of every thing, every last detail of this place. As well as those others who had arrived while they had been awaiting to go in.::

::It was a grand place, with many grand sights.Shea walked along side the others there,taking in this palce. Her steps feel in behind the others, as she follwoed.The forested decor struck Shea as something she would see at home,in GreenStone Hall. The fountian cuased her head to tilt justa slight nitch. Jade hues took in those intricate carvings of various creatures from another land altogether, some familiar and some not. Shea blinked a bit, this place was indeed like no other she had ever seen execpt for at home::

::Shea did look up at those birds above her,wondering what sort they were and how they might have come to be in Rhydin.The place must have been a work in progress but Shea liked it it had an earthy feel to it,like home,less buliding mroe nature.::

::Shea looked baout the large room as they all passed with in listening to the one who had led them all here. She took in the chairs and tables couches and seats and the book shelves and the boxes. Before she walked slowly insidea it apart fromt he others, nwo that theyw ere insideshea bretahed in deeply,as she looked towards the fire place,then over those gathered here, many faces she knew some she did not,shea took them all in with good measure,allies,jade heus flickered silver then went back to their jade color, as she looked away and back at the fire place::

"Where the devil is she?"

The Scath was practically pacing at the door, waiting. So unlike her friend, to not be early; or on time, for that matter. Perhaps she had made the decision to not come at all. Which, was why Janet was ready to come after her is she was not, this was not an opportunity to pass up.

Storm on the other hand, was casually walking, the dark hue of her cloak concealing her from the neck down as she headed for the Ravenlock Compound. She found walking to be the best for wanting to clear the mind. Not to mention that the last thing she wanted to bring was attention to herself.

She had received the letter days ago, after exiting the Inn one night. She waited until she made it to the cabin to open it, somewhere safe. The seal was unfamiliar, but so was the contents until the very end. She read it over and over, copying every detail in her mind, before burning the parchment in her hands. There was dangerous business in having the paper and ink about.

She not not spoken a word of it to anyone, safe Janet. And the only reason for that being was Janet's doing. Storm was uncertain, so many people in one place was asking for disaster. But, as Janet pointed out, who better to watch your back, than those fighting the same fight"

Rather than argue, she continued to weigh her options, waiting until the last moment, and more, before heading for the compound. She paused briefly at a nearby bush, her grey eyes narrowing.

*Do not do something foolish.* No voice, no sound, just the faintest rise in a breeze. *Just wait out here, I will return shortly.* And then her steps continued. She knew better than to give the Earth a time limit, as he would hold her to the last second.

Janet had just stepped out, and then her eyes landed on the face of another. Muttering under her breath, Janet grabbed Storm by her arm and started for the voices of the other, informing those along the way of Storm's poor choice of timing. Some words of 'heart attack' and 'never late' had Storm's lips twitching in a hint of a grin, but her eyes were already glued on everything around her, being attentive without staring.

Once Janet led her, she started for the rest of her Sisters, leaving Storm to her own. The first person she saw was only a back, but it was one she could recognize well. There was another speaking to Ewan, and so rather than interrupting, she moved in her oddly silent manner to rest her hand on the middle of his back lightly. Just to signal that she was there. Staying near him, her eyes went around to the others. Many she knew, though not all.

Janet's bare feet started towards the handful of Sisters, red sash a contrast between her own 'blacks'. A quick nod, tallying all present, all who were missing.

"Where the hell is Reeni?" A snicker escaped her then, as she moved to the end of Mirage. She was pleasantly pleased with the completion of the Compound so far; it would serve it's purpose for the time being.

She then glanced over to the one named the 'Don Mega'. She was probably one of the only Sisters that did not get to speak with him often, and so, she studied from afar. For now, at least.

She was more than happy that he was here with them, and not along the other side.

A brief glance to Eddie and Trix then, finding bonds of friendship worked over time needed at a time such as this. The Sisterhood was strong, and they they worked as a unit.

She almost wished for mercies over those they were seeking, as the lot of them were a handful of trouble. Almost.

Jenai moved as if in sync with her hearts thoughts, she gave each of her sisters arms a feather light touch, thankful and warmed by seeing them again. The Empress and her beloved friends made her soul sing and flashed them a bright smile before business would start.

She leaned to the arm of Brian's chair, pale buck skin leather micros let her slip easily taking a seat there as if she always belonged that near to him.

As he spoke and the others drew closer, she lifted her hands moving them delicately drawing intricate details into the air. To those that could read her fragile movements; they would recognize a complex knitting of scrying wards and perhaps a trigger or alarm. Eddie was one that had seen her work this set on several occasions.

Every move took the length of Brian's opening and all was set.

After chasing off those squirrels, Kerri made sure the security check points reported in, and when that was completed, the Mithra trailed the assembly into the hall.

Emerald pools went left to right quickly, as her tailed flicked like mad a moment, as she then stayed to the wall and soon took her seat, placing herself next to Brian and Jenai.

A gloved hand lifted to her ear a bit, as he seemed the Mithra was in her own little world, a bit. On the contrary, she was simply taking in reports of others that have been tracked enroute towards the compound, via her link pearl. A few nods later, and the Mithra relaxed a bit as she crossed her arms, and awaited to see just what this assembly had in mind.

She mingled about once they were all inside, greeting the different Sisters (and Scorp!) with blown kisses, winks: standard Empress greetings. She had managed to snatch a hug from Jes too, he really was too cute! Everyone else got nods in greeting as she tried to keep with the somber mood, this wasn't the Inn this was a war meeting. She could do war meeting!

She did sneak kisses to both Brian and Jen's cheeks before they were all ushered into the Dining Hall. Great minds think alike, and before she took her spot at the table she made sure to grab a good supply of snacks before Trixie could take them all! She knew better than to expect the Harlequin to share.

Of course, once she took her seat and starting flipping through the materials Brian had provided them, she wasn't quite hungry anymore. Eyes still on the page, she spoke up:

"Perhaps I should go first, Bri? I've been thinking...and information is key here and I don't want everyone to be caught unaware." She set aside the papers and looked around. "Not everyone knows this, but my house was targeted a few weeks back and I'm almost one-hundred percent positive it was our killer."

She had to clear her throat a little, this retelling making her just a touch nervous. However, she didn't let that calm, cool demeanor break at all, her face a study in neutrality. "I was followed home from the cemetery and whoever it was tried to gain entry into my heavily warded house by asking my youngest daughter to let him or her...Devyn couldn't say but if it was our killer I'll assume her. When I entered the room there was a message written in blood on the window: 'I see you' as well as a hand print. The rain obscured the footprints outside and no one was there when I looked...there was a bouquet of roses left too."

"So, whoever is doing this knows us. They know where we live, they know our routines...it's like we're just being toyed with. And frankly' I don't like being toyed with." Her tone went cold, "I know that's part of why we're here...we're all sick of this. But whatever we decide to do, we really still need to watch each others' backs because someone else already is."

Ewan bowed over the accepted hand of Jenai, relinquishing his hold as swiftly as it had come, and kept to his silence as Isuelt answered the hinted question and silenced others" questions unspoken. He gave a knowing smile in return to the Judge's wink, but the sensation of someone moving up behind him, not exactly heard, but felt turned his head about. Storm joined him at his side, he felt the light touch of her hand on his back and he nodded to her as well, but he replied to Jenai's comment for him to gather with the others in a simple, "Thank you.?

Others arrived and he noted them, but his attention lingered on Kerri and he returned her salute with a nod. This motion is repeated when Brian arrives and does a quick nod and salute of his own. It was a strange sensation, Ewan had to admit, since most of his work in his homeland was done with little known authority. Still, as the others filed into the hall at the lead of their host, so did he. Ewan guided Storm to her chair, one of several that seemed designated for the intended attendees. A touch to her shoulder lightly as he left her there to find a seat of his own as near an exit as he could manage.

The maps, documents, and statistics laid out at the seat were reviewed in quick succession as he listened to Mr. Ravenlock's opening statement. There was one particular report he was looking for among the rest, and it was this he hoped to find: the areas that everyone was covering and when. Ewan's own information was piecemealed through observation of the Tunnelers and men of Yransea that trained in the streets. He had hoped Ravenlock would have more precise results.

Ewan, however, would keep some silence in the opening volley of exchanges. Although, he was a bit amused that Brian called the council, and yet he refrained from speaking his own ideas first to inspire the discussion. That was something to analyze as the first to speak and the domino effect was revealed.

The dragon glanced about once more, grinning as she spotted two Golds and two silvers that touched down, adding to the safety of the perimeters, she nodded to her friends from the valley, knowing that they would do all they could to keep the meeting place safe, and best off all, secret. Turning then, she slid inside, following the sound of voices, and coming to a lean against the doorway, blinking as she'd just caught what the Empress had spoken.

Rather than sitting with the rest, he remains standing, moving from his place by the wall only to go to the seat with his name on it and retrieve the stack of papers and carry them back to where he had been leaning, setting the papers on a nearby low table to carry with him later and review. Information, he had learned, was far more valuable than even money, in some cases, and it looks as if Ravenlock had done his research, gotten hold of everything available. He notes the arrival of others, particularly Trixie and another stranger with whom he is not familiar - a tall man, blond, long hair and bright green eyes, an assured way of walking that Lupinius himself is very familar with - it practically screams at his awareness that this man is a skilled fighter with the confidence to back it up, yet at the same time not cocky - a rather calm sense of assuredness in his own abilities.

It is an attitude that the demon respects more than the abilities it represents - this would be a difficult man to fight, a worthy opponent.

He redirects his attention as Trixie re-enters the room. His lips curve faintly upward in the hint of a smile, recalling the she-wolf that had entered with Trixie's scent. He had suspected that she could shift forms, as he could, but suspicion and actuality are two different things. He bows his head slightly to her as she takes her place at the table, saying softly under his breath, "Sister wolf," by way of greeting.

Again he shifts his attention to Ravenlock as he enters the rooms and welcomes them all, bringing this meeting to order, so to speak. The woman sitting next to him grabs the demon's attention as well, as she performs a complex bit of magic - he can feel the tingle in the air as whatever she is doing takes effect. This is another stranger to him, but the way she sits next to Ravenlock speaks volumes - these two must be mates. He registers her for future reference, not taking the time to observe her in minutiae for the time being - there are more important things here to keep track of.

As the stange being - a Mithra, the girl had called it' - brings the vial out of the sack and sets it on the table, he finds himself riveted by it. Or rather, what is inside it.

A single strand of crimson hair.

Abruptly, his eyes flicker with violet fire, and at the same time the amulet at his throat emits a flicker of the same amethyst light. He can feel...something...inside him stir, a sense-memory of the scent that he had tracked all over the city. The vial is sealed, but he can guess what scent that single strand of hair carries. He hadn't found any himself, not a single physical thing that had been left behind by the killer that night, but his instincts tell him what scent it would be, nonetheless. The demon in him stirs, remembering its moment of near-freedom, and he pushes it back down, easily this time - there is nothing here to give it strength, and this time it goes without being able to protest.

Still, he feels the need for caution. He has excellent self-control, but this scent...something about it is able to give his worse half great strength.

"Two things...firstly, where was this found, exactly?"

The question is simple and practical - it could possibly give a clue as to the hiding place of the evil they seek.

"And second...do me the favor of not opening that vial in my prescence...call me overly cautious, but I'd rather be safe than sorry..."

His eyes flick over to Trixie for a moment, remembering their brief conversation outside the gates of the Sanctuary. Not just for my sake, either, he thinks, remembering that she had said the scent had a troubling effect on her as well.

Erin keeps her distance from the crowd as well. She's not much in the mood for formalities. She stays behind Alain and to the right, greeting him with only a light touch to just above his elbow.

Mostly, she stays with her hood up, eyes focused. Who talks to who. Who smiles to who. Of course, she nods her head to anyone that looks her way. Issy. Jewell. Shea. Jen. Anyone she's meant to. And there's a real smile there when Brian pats her shoulder.

Spotting Storm and Janet, Erin steps forward to make herself known to them. Storm was a surprise of sorts, but, honestly, who wasn't involved anymore. If she were going to sit, she wanted it near the highly rational pair.

Chapter 7 Round Robin

Delphinea had only recently arrived at the Sanctuary. She had not even made contact with all of her sisters yet. So, when Illea had told her of this meeting, she was hesitant. Had things in this city gotten so far out of hand that the Scathachians needed outside help? It was nearly unheard of. But, Phin let her nose out of the air long enough to realize what was really going on here. The Scathachians were part of a larger entity here, the actions that were done to one were done to all. It was noble idea and almost extinct. Phin was pleased by her sisters and their contributions to this "outside" society.

She followed the directions carefully and was ushered into the Compound and into a receiving hall, where the visitors had gathered. She noticed Erin, whom she had met at an Inn when she had first arrived. The woman was kind enough to give her directions to the Sanctuary. Icer was there too, the dragon in whom Phin had found so much awe.

The others were completely unknown to her, with the exception of her sisters. Illea, of course was seated near the center of this gathering, Jenai was standing next to a dark haired man. Harlequin, whom she had always secretly envied for her nonchalant manner, and Mirage had taken up their usual strong stance near Diana, whom Phin was almost surprised to see here (only that she knew of Diana's departure from the Island not far preceding her own). There was another wearing the red sash of Scathach that Phin did not immediately recognize, though something about her was familiar. Perhaps this was Mari, the Scathachian who had spent time in the Outlands, whom Illea had told her about.

Phin knew that the other Scathachians were behind her, as she decided to await their arrival by the door. Though she was not alone by any means. There seemed to be a few stragglers teetering on the wisped edge of this conference. Her imposing form stood in the threshold, her light eyes were focused on the talk that ensued.

The young man Garet watched on a bit, as his eyes widened a tad at his being address by the Taru friend of Lord Ravenlock. Folders shuffled, as Garet searched for that which Jeskola had referred to in addressing him, and a moment later, as questions in regards to Kerri's sample, Garet had found what he was looking for.

"What Lady Kerrithra—" Just like that in mid sentence he was interrupted by..

"Lady whatcha-just-say, buster"!?"

Clearing his throat once more, and nodding to Kerri in a most unsure way, Garet continued.

"What Mistress Kerri, and Jes are referring to is one of a few samples we have managed to obtain from various crime scenes, specifically in dealing with the original 'WestEnd Murderer', as she has been referred to."

As this was said by Garet, one smug looking Kerri was smacked upside her head once more, by a fairly annoyed Taru. Garet looked to Lord Ravenlock once more, and silently deferred to his former Elder within the Abbey. Lord Ravenlock, acknowledged the look and deferrment, and cleared his own throat a bit, as he rose quietly from his seat and address the assembled once more, while heading to the far wall, as a new slide was set up, and was now shown on said wall. With a pointer in hand, Lord Ravenlock began.

"To answer your question, I found the first three hair samples myself, each one at a specified location. The first was at the scene of the male and female, who were the first victims...That is specified as 'Scene A', on the maps each of you have before you. The second was located at the scene of the Guardsman, and his brother in the warehouse. That is 'Scene B', the third was located in the area around the slaughtered family that resided near my sister. That is 'Scene C'. Mind you, these are referred to from A to C, only in relation to the hairs, as to the murders themselves, we know there to have been others, and are still in the process of proving each of them, were by our original culprit.

As Kerri said, she found the last one, as she invesitagated Jewell's residence. As to how I obtained the first samples, that was through the use of luminol, a substance that allows you to see traces of blood, even if they have been cleaned away. The stuff I had was from Star's End, and was a generic type, but it did in fact do the trick, and we were able to locate samples, blood tracks, and even partial boot prints that local law enforcement was not able to. Our data is also included in each of your packets.

However, they have finally caught on and are now upping the ante, and are using that and more so, in regards to the newest incidents.I apologize for being long winded, and will give the floor back to Mister Jax, who will advise on the samples."

Garet swallowed once more, and nodded to Lord Ravenlock and lifted a hand to adjust his glasses a bit, and then the young man continued.

"Thank you, sir. In regards to the hair samples, that Lord Ravenlock and Mistress Kerri gave to me. They were taken back to the University of Rhy'din, and were subjected to a battery of localized testings. What we were able to obtain through cellular testing, and compound analysis is that the hair samples are in fact female and quite human. And yes, I understand that means it could be any red headed woman, and heavens know we have seen a huge influx of them lately. No offense Lady Jenai.

What was interesting, and was the key point of this, was a compound that was found on each of the four samples. When we broke it down further, we found it to be some type of cooled magma, a type which we have not seen before, and our reaching out to other institutes in the realm, currently we have had no luck from our collegues in Bale or Appleburg. What we do know, is that this compound is in fact identical four times over, as are the hair samples. Meaning, this person was present at each of these scenes. Unfortunately, it is not much. But it does in fact give a start. In any event, that is what I have on the samples themselves."

The young man quited a once more, and looked among the assembled as papers were shuffled once more.

A quick skim of the notes revealed reports from her seemingly endless patrols, which made Eddie smile. On the Isle, she was still considered too young to be involved with the planning stages of warfare and combat, and it pleased her to no end to be included here. She looked around the Hall, from Brian as he spoke, to all her Sisters, though she was very surprised to see Delphina, and gave her a nod from her spot by Trixie and Mirage.

She kept quiet otherwise, mulling over what Jewell said. A monster who preys on the innocent was the lowest of the low, the scum of the earth in her book, and she would do everything she could to see Justice served - Scathachian style.

Still leaning against the doorframe as best as she could, the dragon glanced over the evidence, and ear twitching now and then as she kept contact via her mind link with the other dragons perched outside.

Nodding as she listened to Shea, she still kept quiet a moment before adding....the deaths in the Westend, from what I've seen, they all look as though they would have been an offering to something, or someone.

Alain waits a moment after Lupinius speaks. He's been silent for the whole meeting, his mood dark and pensive....and yes, the news of other murders and the suggestion of allies is troubling, but the idea of an alliance of killers is one he's thought of before. Finally he clears his throat, pushes off the wall some, and speaks:

"If I may." Eyes search the room quickly, at the gazes turning to him, and he continues. "What we have to go on so far is conjecture, in regard to the killer having allies. Copycat murders have been known to happen even with the copycat murders beginning when the string of murders perpetrated by the original killer is not yet concluded....and usually without any contact between the two murderers." He rubs at his chin some. Every moment that he draws attention to himself at this meeting he is kicking himself for, but in his countenance, he keeps his cool. "I've conjectured that the original killer has one ally. The original killer has an obsession, even a familiarity with Scathachian symbolism. He or she," and he knows those words will stir particular controversy, "defaced Scathachian symbols, in a sense....but it was not simple defacing. It was use; it was an expression that indicated some familiarity. A group, a guild, in the past has defaced the Scathachian compound itself, and yet only using their own symbol. The fact that inverted scales have been used....is one I find deeply troubling." He pauses to collect his thoughts, to look around the room again. "Many of the subsequent murders have been linked to the first because, while the use of Scathachian symbols has not been constant....the targeting of people on the street, in streets the Sisters patrol to keep safe, and the style of the kills - cleaving and a way of playing with the kills - they line up, in many cases. Subsequently, there was another killing, involving a wagon out in front of the Sanctuary, obviously to taunt the Sisters....and yet I do not feel that alone is sufficient evidence of an alliance. However, I think that killer is the same who earlier crucified a city guard. The shift of focus from government figures or random killing, whichever it initially was, to harassing the Sisters....either suggests an unusual change in the heart of the second killer, not typically seen....or that there has been some contact between these two, and for whatever reason, the second killer has seen fit to take up the cause of the first."

He licks his lips quietly. Wishes he had picked up some water. It's taking a long time to make his point. "However, while there have been other murders probably perpetrated by other killers, I don't think we have sufficient evidence to assume any alliance, and would still be cautious to assume any alliance between the first two copycats. The first killer has inspired an orgy of violence, not only varieties of copycats, but people and worse dwelling in the dark corners of this city, who have killed before....stirred, inspired to kill again. Once the original killer, and even the second, are caught, there is still going to be a lot of cleaning up to do."

"...I have a little to ask about the evidence, too, that you say establishes our killer is female and red-haired." He nods his head to the vial. "The same hair from the same person has been seen at four sites....but has Jenai been at all four sites? What about other female redheads, possibly working in the guard or in other capacities for this city' I've seen the way crime scenes here are handled....and we'd be very foolish to assume any high level of crime scene integrity." Oh, this'll go over well. "We can't assume this is a redhead, even a female. Even human, really."

"As well Alain, I would think someone trying to gather as much evidence as you have, would also not assume red is red. If you had indeed looked close enough, You would have seen the Reds are darker then my own. But no....to answer your question, I have not been. Maybe your next question should be kerri, since she picked up the scent, if it was anyone in this room....she would have no doubt again, pointed them out."

She watched Alain a moment. She knew he was trying to come up with idea's and talk about what they had all been finding. But the last thing they all needed was to start finger pointing. Maybe some where used to looking over there shoulder and even loved it....but The Sisters knew they each had the others back with out knifing it.

"And I hope that cleared questions to anyone in here being our monster..."

Brian watched on in deep interested, as storm, Icer and Lupinus each spoke. Their words commited to memory, and paper to boot, as each made astute remarks. A quite nod offered, as a hand lifted to adjust his spectacles a bit, his attention now rested on Alain, as he took the floor and added his ideas to the pool, while Jewell and Jenai quickly responded in turn. Even the light line of fur upon Kerri's neck bristled a bit, and was noted by Bri. A hand reached out and took his beloved's, as a soft kiss was placed upon it. Brian then took the floor once more, in response.

"Alain, to clairify. Jenai has not been to any of the scenes. The only two to collect evidence was myself and Kerrithra, and a guardsmen named O'rourke. Of course this is in addition to the initial crime scene teams the locals had originally used. As to the samples being female, that has in fact been proven, as to them being human, again that has in fact been proven. The university has confirmed this. As to the compound that resided upon the hair samples, that has not yet been one hundred percent identified. Kerri has also picked up a scent from more than one scene, and advises they are indeed the same individual, now I do not know how well your nose is in regards to scents, but I know I cannot catch scents anywhere near the level of a Mithra, let along Mister Lupinius. Also given the fact that Jewell, Jenai and myself recieved 'gifts' from the murderer, namely the severed penis and lips from said crucified guard, and a set of cryptic hand written letters, all bearing scents, I am going to have to side with Kerri and Lupinius on this one, at least as far as scents go. And also with the Univerisity and Mister Jax, as far as the samples.

Now Alain bring up some great point in regards t——"

Brian's eyes widened as one Isuelt took the floor with the force of a seriously pissed off and launched wombat, via one Alex Ravenlock. The elder Ravenlock quieted and let the hell bent sister run with it...And smiled through every bit of it. It wasn't a funny smile, or a sappy one...It was a genuine, 'let's get it on' smile...And he was more than happy to listen.

"Brian, I think it's time we kick this f*cker into high gear. Let's see that grid chart you were talking about."

Kerri listened and grinnery took hold of the Mithra from Vana'diel, as she felt Issy's words from deep within. As it if a calling reached out from the beyong and slapped her upside the head, and this time it was not at the hands of a vexed Tarutaru. Refusing to sit back any longer with the cry of action in the air, leaped to her feet and yelled out with a balled fist in the air!

"F*ck yeah, Meany sister! Time to make those rat bastards 'Fear Mah Kitty!' Hooahh! You slider machiner guy, hell yeah you, ya beady savage, get to the maps and grids now! Let's do this sh*t, yo! Sword-Chucks! Suckaaaaaaaaah!"

And like that, Kerri sat back down proud of her lil rompish outburst as only she could be, while Brian sat perplexed a moment and quickly regained his senses and stood quietly, and offered a somewhat bow to the newly crowned 'Terror Twins', as he took a pointer in hand once more, and regards the map that was now displayed on the far wall for all to see.

"Well alright then, Ladies. How can I refuse such a request, and at the same time keep my body whole and in tact to boot. Let us kick this f*cker into high gear, and get to the bread and butter. Sword-Chucks, and all of that too."

Jeskola sat there with his furry paws in his face, stunned...A facepalm of facepalms, so to speak. Brian regards the gathered once more, as he offered a pat to his old friend's shoulder, and motioned to the large map with was a incredibly detailed overhead map of WestEnd, with enough detail to even note some pieces of a newly crafted wombat launcher that was being built behind the old Ravenlock Dojo, and a few danc— well 'Ladies' sunning themselves on the roof of one 'Club Blue' and more so...In any event, this was one finely crafted map, and Brian knew he owed a serious favour or five from some of the Ragolian pilots from Star's End on this one.

The map itself was divided evenly in a grid system, columns for letters and numbers, the letters went across the map, and ranged from A to H, and the numbers went down from to 1 to 8. Quietly, staff went among the assembled, and places maps in front of each of them, along with a small packet in turn, which emcompassed, crime statistics for the assigned grids, including what types, perps, local hiding holes, guild activity, and more so.

Kerri's handiwork came out in spades, as various guilds, were mentioned, and noted, including one once thought to be defunct 'Night blade' guild, and a few other points of interest, like an elven eatery that refuses to serve elf to eat. Again, Kerri...Nuff said. Brian nodded to the staff, as they completed their tasks and vacated the assembled once more.

"Well this is what we have....WestEnd, and lately one helluva warzone on many fronts...In the last six months, this place has degraded in such a way it can no longer be ignored. Murders, rapes, vanishings, human trafficking, even children! Loads of petty deals as well, and they too will be swept into this gambit.

The goal here is to take back WestEnd by any means necesarry. I am not making any bones here people, lines will in fact be crossed, and some even stomped outright. Isuelt said jail, and I can agree with that, but there are also cases where statements will need to be made, examples MUST be shown to the masses to let them see we are doing what needs to be done, what the locals cannot or will not do.

If we find someone outta line, we kick them back in...And take a few teeth and more with them. We find a rapist, we make it so he won't do it again, we find a killer, we make sure they don't do it again. We find some thugs, we lean on em till they give us someone else to lean on, and the same goes for these petty assed guilds. We put so much f*cking pressure on these sons of bitches that someone or something will in fact HAVE to give...Icer's clan will provide aerial support, and logisticals as well, my goal is to have assigned grids for members here, and grid by grid we take back this area of Rhy'din.

Grid by grid, broken bone by broken bone. We make sure those bastards fear us, more than they would their bosses, and we make it so their bosses will agree it will be more beneficial to let us do what we need to do and move on so they can get back to business, so long as they keep to their petty sh*t and don't draw our attention again. I know I am over simplifying a bit, and forgive me, of course we will go over details and what not, but what I need to know is this..

Who is on board for this...We are going to cross lines, we are going to bury some others, we are going to make marks all over this city, and we will become the enemy in some way or some others, and I assure you we will in fact attract attention. In that event it doesnt matter, cause our killer knows us all anyways, and knows where to find us, so f*ck it...They want to see us, they will 24-7, and in the WestEnd! We will no longer run, and will no longer chase shades, instead we will hammer away bit by bit, stone by stone and wall by wall until we get to where we need to get, and we will do so by any means.

So, if you cannot feel you can do this, or if you feel down the line you cannot commit to this, you can leave now."

Wyheree listened intently, as she leafed through the reports, the details quickly memorized. Garet, Lupinus, Icer, Jewell, Alain - everything that was said added to the knowledge held within the papers. After Issy and Brian spoke up, and the grids were distributed, after Ewan had finished speaking, Wyh lifted a delicate hand.

"Undead that move unhindered in the daylight is unusual, even for RhyDin. Any pre-emptive strike taken needs to take that detail into account. The usual methods for dealing with the strongest of the undead are ill-suited to residential areas."

Wyh paused a moment. "I am as angry and frustrated as everyone else here. I am tired of reading the Oracle each and every month to find more horrors, not less. My concern is in the collateral damage - I wish to see these brutalities cease, but I also wish for innocent lives to be spared."

Her silver eyes flickered down to the grids, then back to Brian. She said nothing else. Brian knew, and had always known, her feelings. She now voiced them for everyone else to hear.

Alain nods to Jewell, but after Jenai's words, he pushes off the wall to grab the edge of the table, caught in the middle of a 'now hold on just one hot second' face when others speak up. Namely Issy. Eyebrows go up as he watches her blow off steam not once, but twice. Assigning grids. His incensed expression fades into a reserved coolness as he draws back from the table again, folding his arms over his chest. Blue eyes slowly search the room, and he wonders....he's trusted these people with so much already....can he trust them all with the route of his patrols? There isn't a soul among them he thinks would ambush him....but it's still a difficult, very vulnerable move for him to make. So for the moment, he waits.

Erin folded her arms across her chest as she listened. Once it calmed down, she wordlessly placed a hand atop Alain's arm for a moment. Gentle squeeze. She left it there, below the table level, but reassuring. Calming.

Leaning forward, she examined the map in front of her. I think, perhaps, Issy is right. Maybe she should take over?

A soft smile to her friend, then.

He looks a little over at Erin as she squeezes his arm....then gives her hand a little squeeze. He hates this meeting. He hates how everyone's handling this case, including himself. And he hates the risks he keeps having to take....especially if it puts Cassie in danger. But if they're serious about covering every inch of this city, and that's the only way to flush out the killers if they're lucky, or people attached to the killers if they're smart about it...

"Here." His hand leaves Erin's, and he points at one of the grids. "This is the turf Cassie and I will cover." It's close enough to their office, but not too close, either. He doesn't explain that this is what he's patrolled before, or what other interests he has in that area of the city - some cards in his hand are better kept hidden. Eyes flicker to Issy....linger on Jenai....and then finally simply rest on whoever happens to be opposite him. "And I think our actions should be at minimum cautious, reserved, unless we are positive we have a solid lead." Gaze moves to Ewan now, as he adds, "Swinging blind will serve only to bring elements of this city down on us, and rightly so." Bearing in mind his remark about the guard.

He stays on his place against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest, listening in completely silent observation. The challenges, the rants, the demand for action - all a waste of time, and yet what else could they do' He has the vague suspicion that no matter how things are portioned out, until the threat is sought out and dealt with, the WestEnd is going to be under the thrall of whatever dark force is currently ruling it.

But that is not his place to say. He had offered his information and a bit of speculation, only to have it denounced. He doesn't necessarily hold that against the denouncer - after all, she didn't know he had had literally centuries to hone his senses to the point that he can pick four scents out of a crown of a hundred and follow them all without fail. What may seem like magic to some is in fact basic animal senses combined with over a millenium's worth of experience.

Sighing inwardly, he simply pushes the thoughts aside and focuses on the grid laid out before him. An efficient plan, this - division of labor evenly spread out to assure the maximum available coverage. He's not sure how much good it will do, but he's aware that every little bit of help counts.

"I am readily availabe to help wherever I am needed, of course. Those of you who know my name have but to say it, should you have need of me...day or night. I've always said that sleep is an overrated commodity, and demons have no trouble with daylight."

::Shea was silent just listing, she would fight with them all of them.She need not say it.Those jade hues flickered to silver,watching them all. Listening to Issy, and Brian and all the rest their as words were spoke, Brains hung in her mind::

"Grid by grid, broken bone by broken bone. We make sure those bastards fear us, more than they would their bosses, and we make it so their bosses will agree it will be more beneficial to let us do what we need to do and move on so they can get back to business, so long as they keep to their petty sh*t and don't draw our attention again. I know I am over simplifying a bit, and forgive me, of course we will go over details and what not, but what I need to know is this...

Who is on board for this...We are going to cross lines, we are going to bury some others, we are going to make marks all over this city, and we will become the enemy in some way or some others, and I assure you we will in fact attract attention. In that event it doesnt matter, cause our killer knows us all anyways, and knows where to find us, so f*ck it...They want to see us, they will 24-7, and in the WestEnd! We will no longer run, and will no longer chase shades, instead we will hammer away bit by bit, stone by stone and wall by wall until we get to where we need to get, and we will do so by any means.

So, if you cannot feel you can do this, or if you feel down the line you cannot commit to this, you can leave now."

::Shea was in this on board the whole way, not about to leave,not about to give up. She rose to her feet the winds always at her side rose and fell through her hair and cloak:: "As long as their is a fight to be had I shall help in what ways I can " :;This to Brian and all thsoe others there,Shea was in this fight, she was not about t give up,and not about to stand down:: "By magic or sword, This must end"

The dragon had settled against the doorframe, looking like she'd fallen asleep, though now and then one of her ears twitched as she listened to both the mind speak from her comrads and the bickering inside the compound. She didn't even move toward the grids as the others claimed territories as their own to patrol.

You know..instead of bickering amongst yourselves...we may get a lot more accomplished if everyone works together.., as of right now, many of the dragons from the valley have consented to help patrol from the air, my own sister even agreed.., one ice blue eye opening to scan through the crowd gathered, besides, single patrols could easilly be overcome should they find anything.

She frowned as people just started calling out lots and choosing for themselves. Her thoughts were along the same lines of Ewan, only she spoke up. Sitting up straight once more, she called out before anyone else could start marking their territory on the map, "Hold up!"

"Don't you think there might be say...a more organized and rational way of going about this?" She didn't wait for an answer or even any sort of response, "Yeah. That's what I thought."

Shaking her head, she looked around the room, "There are several things to consider before you all start marking your territory by pissing on the table. One, is just one person going to be assigned to each section' If so, is that person expected to be out there every single night kicking ass" That doesn't make much sense. Also, we're neglecting the fact that we're better off in pairs and if we have only one person in each section...that's not the safest or most effective way, although many of us do prefer to work alone."

"Another thing, some of us have particular talents that are useful in different situations. Maybe we should be considering all that and pairing people accordingly before everyone starts getting grabby for their routes? It's not like there isn't more than enough to go around."

Ewan did not restrain the surprise fully at being deferred to in this matter. His brows rose briefly then he gave a respectful nod to Brian and to Jewell. "Both of you have made valid points, and touched upon my very thoughts and concerns. From what I have heard you want to be seen, and you want to turn the tides. Organization is a way to do that, for now," a wry smile, "but more than anything, you must keep changing within that organization. We have to become an organic thing, able to work with each other seamlessly, adjust to each others skills and weaknesses, and that takes trust."

He eyed the few standing away from the table near the walls. "Right now, I have difficulty trusting those who cannot even sit at table with us. If we are going to be attacked here, which I find improbable but not impossible, being against a wall is not going to help you much." Ewan left the decision to them to remain where they were or take up a seat and moved on, "The city guard is under reorganization, and in that, I hope to be able to compensate for what areas and times this group cannot cover the West End. My suggestion, however, is for you all to work something similar. You need the areas you cover to overlap by a block," his hand moved to indicate his meaning, though he lacked the strange device of a pointer, but hopefully the intention is clear. "I would advise working in trios, two waylayers and one runner."

A pause, he leans forward, his hands palm upward, "Some of you have skill to send messages through arcane ways, and a runner would not be necessary. You all need to share your strengths and be aware of your weaknesses. Bravado serves no one here." Ewan rubbed his lower lip briefly, and continued, "I cannot select your groups, as I do not know all of your skills, though some I can hazard guesses. I do recommend those that are more attuned with battle match up with those more accustomed to stealth. The way you approach things will be different and compliment each other."

He looked to the grid again, "You also need rotations, unexpected rotations. I suggest either based on degrees or random lots, though the later is more difficult and requiring checking in or messages being sent." A tilt of his head, "Rotations not only in areas but times would also be helpful, but that adds a layer of complexity I think might be too difficult to obtain. We do not have enough people here to do this, but, I should be able to get a runner for each of you, if you want to make this an effort of pairs. Again, perhaps the discussion should start with grouping talents. If we discover such suggestions will not work, I have other ideas."

Ewan paused his comments at that moment for the attendees to work this out or other ideas and refinements be made. This would only work if everyone felt a part of the process.

It was not unusual for the Air to remain silent for so long. Slow to speak and quick to listen, her attention was always on the speaker, even if her eyes trailed to catch reactions. Her eyes then trailed down at the grid, though the composure remained on her face. It seemed that everyone had valid points, and was able to at least try to work together.

It was more of a start than she had expected; and it was on the move of becoming organized.

She glanced over towards Ewan as he started to explain the groupings of people, the lack of schedule in rotation. She bit on her lower lip in thought as she looked down at the grid again, dividing the number of people into groups, groups into rotations. They had enough people to make it work, though it would certainly not be easy.

"I have ways to communicate in silence, so a runner is not needed with me." Though her voice was soft, there was presence behind it. She was more than accustomed to making herself known in large groups where everyone had a voice that needed to be heard. "I think it will help if some of us have worked together before, such as Janet and myself." A small glance to the Scathach, before continuing. "Also, I believe there is enough of us here gifted with any use of magic to have at least one in each group. Variety can be an advantage here, if we do it correctly." It was not her place to make groups, nor to assign herself to a person and a place. Grey eyes lifted up, shifting between Issy, Ewan and Brian.

And once he said it, she almost sort of smiled.

"He isn't alone, either," came the Harlequin's confession. Something about her voice was off. There was a foreign quality to her tone, and those of sharp nose would pick up on the disarray she was in. It was a more forceful control in her speech, considering being "in heat" didn't often allow her such company as this.

"I'm not-a purebred demon, but that thing...that odor....it's pretty bloodthirsty. An' like Big Bad said...to things of our kind, it's intoxicatin"."

She shifted back in her seat, fingers wrapping around the ends of the chair's arms. She looked to Ewan, nodding a bit, before glancing away.

"Like most Scathachians, I got a bunch-a trainin". My swords are my tools but I...I'm pretty strong an' capable without 'em. I have a few shapes I can take—-one allowin' for speed, the other for stealth...the last one juss' for destruction. I can do daylight, but I'm better at night. Also, like Wolfe over there, there are some places I can't enter—namely residental type places, 'less the owner invites me in." She thought hard for a minute, trying to figure out what else to say. "And, as ya prolly gathered, I can smell super well...uh...I can bite, too....an' I'm weak ta' silver."

She nodded as she mentally reviewed her list. That covered most things, didn't it' Wait. A darker look spread over her, followed by a fidget in her seat.

"But, uh, if I'm around that scent too long, I dunno what I'm capable of. My other sides aren't always so stable, so...around certain elements—blood, death...that vileness..." She ticked her chin towards the vial with the hair. "I don't reccommend trustin' me enough to be too close. If I turn, you leave me to what I'm doin'. An' if I turn on you...then you do what is necessary. Ya don't let friendships stand in the way."

She figured it was pretty clear what she meant there. There was a look Izz-ward during it, too. Izzy, though younger and a Scathachian for less time than she, was clearly the more responsible leader-figure. She wanted Izzy to internalize that order, and to be ready to voice it back to the other sisters should the situation ever arise. The Harlequin would rather have justice delivered to her then be responsible for the fall of family.

All that needed to be said had been, and so she returned to eyeing the snacks on her plate, even if she wasn't particularly hungry.

Janet was quiet along with many of the other Sisters. They were one unit, and only really needed one voice to represent them. She knew just as much as the others, if not a little less. She paid no mind to it, and used this meeting for their advantage.

Janet offered a cheeky smile to Phin, recognizing the strong Sister as the newest member. It was rare for Janet to not know a Sister from the Islands, but she had every intention to change that. As she was already adapting well to the wonderful woman around her. She sneaked food from Trixie's plate every now and then, well aware of her love of food.

Janet was seated between the Trixie and Mirage, two ladies she would never want to be without. She already had such a strong tie to Mirage, after there work together on the archery fields, and Trix, well....how could one resist'

She glanced around to all of her Sisters, even the Don Mega, who remained surprisingly quiet. Issy though, she made sure her points got across. And why not' She spoke for all of them, and Janet would stick by her side to the bitter or glorious end. She looked over Issy to the last Sister to join them, or, at least to make her presence known. Sneaky thing.

Her attention then went to Storm, and she offered a small nodd. She was sure it would be best to work with the Air again, and she would have it no other way. Her amber eyes go to the grid again, awaiting for the groups that were to be made to bring an end to all things.

In her seat by her Sisters, Eddie watched and listened. Her skills were well-known to her Sisters, and pretty obvious to those around. She was the smallest of the Scathachians, both in height and weight, which gave her a distinct advantage in sneaking up on her enemies. She walked without making a sound. She was deadly accurate with the chakra. Her foot techniques were unparalleled. Her weakness was her lack of real experience. Being 18, she hadn't been involved in major campaigns on the Isle. On RhyDin, she was more than able to take down muggers and rapists and other crimials, but she had never been tested - until now. She didn't have to say it, her Sisters knew, and the others would too just by her appearance.

For those who may not know, I am Icer, the dragon spoke as her eyes remained closed and she still kept to the wall, it wasn't that she was being antisocial, but it was hard to sit near a table full of people when one's stomach was rather swelled with eggs.

She twitched an ear as a message was received from the Gold sitting atop the compound and she grinned, as for me.., I can heal a little, I am also able to use thought speak with those open enough, in fact.., we have a visitor right this moment it seems.., plus my usual defenses.

Instead of telling those gathered, she prefered to show them, and taking in a breath, jaws parted as she sent blue flames toward the floor beneath herself, freezing the floor solid. I also can use a little fire, and lightning, though they are last defense.

She was listening to the gold describe the "guest", and she bit back a grin, both eyes still closed, well..., shall we let Kristia in, or is she going to stand outside all day?

She was debating in her head as those around the table started to list their abilities (almost as though they were listing their qualifications to participate in this fight). On the one hand, she didn't really feel it was necessary for those around her—even though many of them were her closest friends and family members—to know everything that she was capable of doing. There was the chance that it could be used against her by those she was not so close with some time down the line. There was also the possibility that her list of "I can..." would unnerve some of the less magic savvy in the room.

At the same time, they all needed to be able to trust each other to make this whole deal work. Also, how could they properly pair groups together if they didn't have all the information they needed? Knowledge was power and knowledge of herself could possibly help move things along if someone was able to think of an application of her abilities that she had not considered at the time.

She settled in the middle: an abbreviated list.

"Most of you know me, and know to an extent what I can do." She spoke with the utmost humility and modesty now, in no way trying to flex her muscles in an attempt to show off. "The most obvious is that I can control water in its variety of forms. This means I can also alter the form it takes, meaning I can change water into ice or even steam." She kept it simple, no need to explain how her ability to freeze water extended to the water inside a living body or that she could mimic the pressure of the ocean floor.

"I also have the ability to manipulate mana energy, which is the basic life energy all around us. This, coupled with some of my more basic talents, allows me to heal to an extent. However, when I do so the energy usually comes out of me."

"I can also defy gravity," a pause, "you know...fly. With or without my wings. I can basically walk silently on almost any surface since I don't actually need to touch the ground. I also have control over what is known as glamour. It's the magic of illusion in many ways, allowing me to control what others see." A demonstration was in order and with a snap of her fingers it was a red head that looked quite similar to Jenai sitting at the table where Jewell had once been. A little shrug and the effect wore away, dissipating. She spoke again more gravely, softly, "Glamour can be a lot more dangerous than that, though, as it also allows me to control some people's minds to an extent. I can recreate their memories, take them from them. I have little to no practice doing so, though...it's not something I take lightly."

And her mood shifted, a smile springing up again, "Also, as a veteran bar brawling, I can beat an opponent with any number of objects including but not limited to beer pitchers and bar stools." She had to thank Brian for that training.

Better late than never, right' The tall Scathachian slipped in, her bare feet silent as she prowled through the crowd more gracefully than one might imagine a woman of her stature could be. Reeni folded her muscular figure into a chair near her Sisters and folded her arms; listening silently as those around her listed their various talents and weaknesses. Seemed like they had a rather diverse group of people. A good thing, that was. Could cover many more of the weaknesses like that. That blue gaze roved over all those assembled. Most of the faces were familiar. Those that weren't, were memorized. If they were here, they were friends. She remained silent for the moment. Her Sisters knew her strengths and weaknesses; they knew that she was just human, but that she could fight with the best of them. They all knew that her talent with the chakrum was common knowledge, and that until she had something important to add, she wouldn't distract or draw focus away. With this many people in a room, it was far too easy to stray from the point. Reeni's silence was also giving her time to size up those that she didn't know. Watching and listening was one of her strong points. Sometimes you missed the subtle things if you were always doing the talking. It also made what you said that much more important when you finally broke the silence to add something. The platitude "silence is golden" did indeed apply in some cases.

Many had spoken, particularly those with what he had felt held arcane abilities. Others had not and seemed unlikely to do so at this point. Ewan watched body language as people spoke. Who looked to whom, those that sat back and those that leaned forward. How casual they all seemed except one, maybe two. Those that stiffened with discomfort told by the shifting of muscles in the neck or the unlooked for check of another.

A slow shake of his head and a sigh, he could not expect others to give up their nature in a moment. "Mr. Ravenlock, I think it might be time for the blending of talents, but there needs to be one who coordinates this, and it cannot be me."

He went on without hesitation, "To this I will make these recommendations, but I leave it to you all to make the decisions. First of all, we have those that feel effects of nearness to evil, darkness, what have you. Those need to be paired with someone who can either kill them or keep them from placing their foot on that dark path. Can we be certain of either? No, but it is the only solution. To leave such alone in this is to beg for them to turn against this group unchecked."

"Second, while I respect that magic works in ways I cannot begin to fathom, I must say I do not trust to tokens that call to others. Coming an instant after is nothing like being there from the beginning of trouble. There is prevention and there is cure, and a cure can come too late. Prevention never does." He rubs at his brow and waves it off. "I digress; let me leave it at this. Talents are known as much as is willing to be given. It is time to move forward, match up, pick areas and rotations, and I will coordinate what I can from the watch's side to keep out of your way or assist."

He was done and looked to the many leaders of this group to use their senses and take what they have to start the new movement in this macabre opus.

(( temp lock on thread for post assignments ))

:;Shea listened intently to Brian . Shea knew those bottoms and maze like catacombs all too well. But Shea was not the only wind elemental here,and seeing as how Storm was also a wind elemental Shea would let Storm back them up if she wanted. Shea's skills could always be used else where,her talents lied not only in wind elemental..Jade hues rested upon Brian and Shea rose to her feet slowly. Not sure how she was going to put this but :: " Though I know the bottoms and Catacombs all too well, I think that Storm may be of more use to that group, she and Janet have worked together before, and since I am the lesser known of the two wind elementals here,I will lend my hand else where. I can be of use as more than a wind elemental mage." :: How else could she put it,Shea was very skilled with her wind elemental, but her skills didnt end there,balde,bow,other elementals Shea was a well trained knight , but she would go where she was told...::

::Jade hues shifted to Storm as shea sat down once more with a nod,true the area was quite big, she just didnt wish to step on Stroms toes,-so-to-speak. But thinking it over Shea understood Storms reasonings. And gave a curt nod to that:: " That will work for me...." :: Was all she would say as she sat back down fully. Shea and Strom were light night and Day,Shea knew that. Storm had her weaknesses and Shea ahd hers,but even though the two shared an element in common they were very very different.:

Glancing about the gathered once more, Brian nodded to Icer with a wink.

"Actually sister, that would be a good idea, so have Kristia join us, I am sure someone of her talented state could offer something to what we intend to do, at the very least on the information front. Sides, we haven't seen her in a while, and it would be nice for us all to catch up. Kerri, can you extend the invite, please?"

Another kiss placed to his beloved's hand as he looked around once more and offered a nod to Storm, Shea and lastly Lupinius. Brian figured by some of the responses he may have touched on some sensitive areas, but he knew these were strong people, both in mind and in heart, just as much as body. He knew every one of them might be altered in some way, by the time this ordeal was concluded. He already knew many of them were, including himself.

Still he trusted them, each and every one of them. Had he not, he would not have made such a bold move, as to gather so many for this purpose. Someone said, life isn't about how hard you get pushed. It's about how hard you push back, when it decides to shove you around. Brian took that to heart in many ways, and would make sure that WestEnd was all about how hard the gathered would push back, when they made their move.

Once more a kiss was placed to Jen's hand, as he looked about the tables, and each of them in turn.

"Any suggestions" Comments" Changes" By all means, don't hold back for anything. Each of us as of this moment, are placing our lives in the hands of those around you. So do not feel you need to hold anything back on any front."

If one thing was certain, it was that talk was not Isuelt's strong point. She had always been more of an action kind of girl. Her knee was bouncing impatiently, a physical manifestation of her need to actually move outside and kick a little ass. To be sure, there was nothing wrong with sitting around planning, wars would never be won if no one sat back and looked at the strategy stages and changes. Still, Isuelt was and would always be a soldier, through and through. The blood and adrenaline of the battlefield was were she felt most at ease, most at home, most herself.

Pressing a strong, corded hand onto her bouncing knee, she slowly stood up and nodded. She nodded once as she looked about the large room filled with proclaimed allies. The plan was a good one, and only time would tell if any changes needed to be made. For now, she was ready to go.

Her fingers were lingering on her hips as she spoke, "I'm game, and ready. We'll set this in motion tonight. As of right now, the WestEnd will be taken back and claimed from the hands of the malefactors." Her tone was crisp and deep, her throat was somewhat parched. But not as parched as her hands were for the blood of the guilty. With any luck, the skin of her fingers would be drinking well as early as tonight.