Trinity Universe: Masked Men

[tooho]

"Of course, thank you." Standing back politely, Lotus folds her jacket around her slight form, cinching it closed tightly and swings her braid behind her. Following just to the side of Whistler, the young woman unconsciously tips her hat forward to cast more of her face in shadow.

[ProfPotts]

Echo, at least, watches with fascinated horror as Banshee 'falls' off the building ::blink ! Rushing out through the snow-covered rooftop gardens surrounding the penthouse she stops at the brass railing & peers over the side, only to witness the strangely clad Celtic woman gliding across the thermals generated by the heated buildings of the city,

"Oh wow!" the exclaimation is only slightly above a whisper, but the chauffeuse turns back to the others as she starts to blather, "She's flying! Really flying! I thought she'd, you know, 'splat' or something but she's really..." Echo's voice once again trails off as she realises the cool manner in which the rest of the group appears to have taken the Banshee's aerial antics. For a moment she turns back to watch as the Irish harbinger of death drifts away into the night, even going so far as pointing, but eventually resigns herself to the fact that the others just aren't prone to being impressed & heads - a little put out by her solo reaction - back towards the elevator.

As promised, the elevator takes everyone to underground parking built beneath the mighty Monolith hotel - Eckhardt's white limo' is parked in front of the group as they emerge - the walls covered in mechanic's tools of all varieties, & the scene lit by an overhead lamp which spotlights the car. The wall opposite the elevator sports a large set of double doors to allow the car to exit into the more public parking area, & from there up a short ramp to the streets of Manhattan Island. Gesturing towards the garage doors with his cane the iceman notes,

"These doors will also open for your pins - & may be a more descrete way to enter the building in the future." He glances pointedly towards Ulfmund as he makes the comment, "All this has only just been completed, or I would have suggested it at our last encounter."

"Whistler - as you can see, there's enough room for you to park your own automobile here if you wish when you visit - & feel free to use to mechanical facilities as well." He waves at the various tools, then, gesturing again towards the double doors, adds, "For now I suggest you escort your passengers to wherever it is you've parked."

Turning to Watchman & White Dragon, Eckhardt gestures towards the waiting car,

"Gentlemen."

The long white car has a spare wheel on either side, above the running boards, & windows of smoked glass. Inside, the limo sports comfortable leather seating - with two seats in the back facing each other, each large enough to accomodate three or (if they're friendly) four. Sparkle & Glisten sit either side of Eckhardt, & indicate for Watchman & White Dragon to sit opposite. The back seat is seperated from the front by a partition of smoked glass - it's impossible to see who's driving the vehicle. Once the group are seated, Viktor taps his cane on the glass partition behind him. With no more instruction than that, the vehicle's engine purrs to life, & the car heads out of the garage & onto the night-blackened, snow-covered, streets of New York City.

After a brief moment spent contemplating his guests, Eckardt leans forward slightly & asks,

"So, gentlemen, what do you suppose our plans should be when we arrive? I, of course, know you both by reputation, but what are your actual strengths & talents?" ::sly

[Archer21]

As Whistler leads the way to his own vehicle, Ulf' hums tunelessly to himself in a pleased fashion. Re-fastening his fur cloak in preparation for the chill outside, he catches Black Lotus' eye. "Ice-wizard not like me coming front door. Good!"

Shaking his shaggy head of hair in laughter, he keeps walking. After a few more quiet chuckles, he looks with a sharp intelligence at the revolver holstered on Black Lotus' hip. "How work?"

[tooho]

Smiling slightly, she nods. "I didn't bother to come in a different way either."

Sliding the well-cared for gun out of her right holster, she twirls it around her finger before allowing it to rest in her palm. "Pull this back.. *snick of the hammer* and pull this" pointing to the trigger, Lotus uncocks it again. "Always keep the loud end pointed away from anything you want to keep safe." ::wink "If this is not a nice quiet night, you will get to see it in action. If you wish to learn sometime, I am sure we could find a place for me to teach you." ::cool

Nodding to his own weapon, she looks a little bewildered. "I do not think I have ever seen such a weapon in person. How did you come upon it?"

[Asbjørn]

After a brief moment spent contemplating his guests, Eckardt leans forward slightly & asks,

"So, gentlemen, what do you suppose our plans should be when we arrive? I, of course, know you both by reputation, but what are your actual strengths & talents?" ::sly

The Watchman shrugs.

"We check the place out, shake them up a little and ask a few questions. In my experience, setting a few violent examples does wonders for the memory and cooperation from the others." ::cool

He glances to Bai Long and adds

"On my own I don't like taking on more than three at a time if I can avoid it, but I hear different stories about you. ::sly Crowd control will be a lot easier with all our resources..."

[Archer21]

Nodding to his own weapon, she looks a little bewildered. "I do not think I have ever seen such a weapon in person. How did you come upon it?"

Patting one of the twin blades, the Viking seems lost in memory for a moment before he replies. "Given to me. From good man, king."

Slowly drawing the one he'd been caressing, Ulf' holds it out sideways for her to examine. "Teeth from big wolf. Fenrir? From gods?" He looks at her to see if she understands.

[Heritage]

Once they get to the Phaeton, Whistler holds the door open for his new comrades.

Please, enter.

After they're all inside, he nods to Echo.

And we're off, if you please.

[Prince of Boredom]

The Watchman shrugs.

"We check the place out, shake them up a little and ask a few questions. In my experience, setting a few violent examples does wonders for the memory and cooperation from the others."

He glances to Bai Long and adds

"On my own I don't like taking on more than three at a time if I can avoid it, but I hear different stories about you. Crowd control will be a lot easier with all our resources..."

Bai Long nods at The Watchman, "I follow the path of Shaolin. My journey on this path has required me to learn many arts, both peaceful and martial. I am able to remain unseen when necessary, and yes, the Way of the Dragon has provided me with the ability to combat multiple opponents if necessary."

[tooho]

"Fenris... the beast of Ragnarok, destined to bring an end to the old gods." Smiling in appreciation of the craftsmenship, she rubs a single finger over the handle before letting her hand fall back to her side. "A treasure. You must be a great.. warrior to have been given such a weapon." ::blush Sad brown eyes lift to his before she turns her head again to turn back to Whistler and Echo.

Striding quickly into the car, she bows slightly to Whistler as she slides carefully to the far side to make room for the others.

[ProfPotts]

The White Limo:

"We check the place out, shake them up a little and ask a few questions. In my experience, setting a few violent examples does wonders for the memory and cooperation from the others."

Eckhardt flashes a micro-smile & nods,

"I bow to your experience in these matters."

"On my own I don't like taking on more than three at a time if I can avoid it, but I hear different stories about you.  Crowd control will be a lot easier with all our resources..."

"I follow the path of Shaolin. My journey on this path has required me to learn many arts, both peaceful and martial. I am able to remain unseen when necessary, and yes, the Way of the Dragon has provided me with the ability to combat multiple opponents if necessary."

Viktor again nods,

"One doesn't like to take rumours at face value, but from your responses, gentlemen, I think it's safe to presume that any opposition we run into won't be too stiff an issue. You, of course, have witnessed my own talents," a brief icy mist surrounds the man's raised hand, dropping the temperature in the car slightly, "which speak for themselves. Although they are both fine shots, I suggest that the ladies remain in reserve whilst we take the initiative."

Several minutes later the car glides to a halt. Exiting the vehicle Eckhardt points down the street with his cane - illuminated by a pool of light from a nearby streetlamp, on the opposite side of the snow-covered road from the limo, is the front of a shop - one of many in a terraced row. The sign above the shuttered plate glass window proclaims the establishment as 'Goldstein's Jewellers', a small set of stone steps leads up to the front door. The row of buildings is three stories tall - light can be seen from the middle story windows of Goldstein's shop, with the occassional shadow passing by indicating movement within. No-one else can be seen on the night-darkened street at the moment.

The Phaeton:

And we're off, if you please.

Echo nods & puts the car in gear, pulling away from the curb & heading up-town towards Goldstein's home.

Soon enough the uniformed lady driver nods to a building along the street she's just turned the car into,

"That's the address, boss."

The townhouse is an impressive building - with a pair of stone lions guarding the steps to the front door, & gargoyles perched along the edge of the four-story high roof. Lights are on all over the house, & three men are standing outside: two are dressed in normal overcoats & fedoras (&, Whistler notices, have large handguns holstered under those coats) & flank the entrance - keeping watch for trouble. The third man is a Black gent dressed in the gold-brocaded overcoat & white gloves of a doorman - he's opening the doors of expensive-looking cars which are drawing up to the house & escorting the well-dressed occupants of those cars inside. From the mix of tuxedoed gentlemen & ladies dressed in the latest Paris fashions, it seems clear that there's a party going on. Whistler can even hear the music from inside - a live jazz band & torch-singer if he's not mistaken.

As the Phaeton draws close to the house, Echo asks,

"Should I stop or drive on?"

The Night Skies:

Gliding lazily over the rooftops of the city, Banshee's head-start & direct route are soon caught-up by the much faster cars of the others - crossing a road a couple of blocks from the hotel she spots The Whistler's car moving swiftly beneath her. Still, she should arrive at her target within a few minutes of the Phaeton.

[Heritage]

As the Phaeton draws close to the house, Echo asks,

"Should I stop or drive on?"

Pull around the block and park in the darkest part of the street.

[Prince of Boredom]

The White Limo:

Several minutes later the car glides to a halt. Exiting the vehicle Eckhardt points down the street with his cane - illuminated by a pool of light from a nearby streetlamp, on the opposite side of the snow-covered road from the limo, is the front of a shop - one of many in a terraced row. The sign above the shuttered plate glass window proclaims the establishment as 'Goldstein's Jewellers', a small set of stone steps leads up to the front door. The row of buildings is three stories tall - light can be seen from the middle story windows of Goldstein's shop, with the occassional shadow passing by indicating movement within. No-one else can be seen on the night-darkened street at the moment.

Bai Long takes a moment to study the building (does he think he could climb to the second floor?) and then turns to the other two gentlemen, "What, then, is our plan. Through the front door, or perhaps through that window up there?"

[Archer21]

Fenris... the beast of Ragnarok, destined to bring an end to the old gods." Smiling in appreciation of the craftsmenship, she rubs a single finger over the handle before letting her hand fall back to her side. "A treasure. You must be a great.. warrior to have been given such a weapon."  Sad brown eyes lift to his before she turns her head again to turn back to Whistler and Echo.

A tiny shake of his head indicates the Viking's own disagreement with her statement. "Hope to be great, someday."

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

Later, as Echo parks the car according to Whistler's instructions, Ulf' studies the building and guards. He caresses a Fang's handle while staring out the window. "Noisy." Fingertips pluck at his fur-lined cloak. "Bad clothes for ce-le-bration. How get in?"

[Asbjørn]

"What, then, is our plan.  Through the front door, or perhaps through that window up there?"

"Keep it simple."

The Watchman studies the building as he answers.

"We need to cover or block the exits. Should be easy enough with your skills, Eckhardt... There's probably a back door too."

Turning back to the two others he nods and says

"Ok, here's what I think: We check if there's a back door. If there is, we use that. If not, we go through the front. Either way we do it quietly, and seal it behind us. We make sure there's nobody on the ground floor and seal the other door as well, then proceed upstairs. If the layout of the rooms allow it I think you" - looking at Bai Long - "should come up behind them. Be our ace in the hole."

"Once we're there, we talk to them. If they give us trouble we improvise and try not to hurt them too much. ::devilangel Do you have any ranged non-lethal weapons?" Once again he looks to Bai Long.

"If so, you should strike the first blow. If it's surprising enough we might not need more than one." ::sly

"Sound ok to you?"

[ProfPotts]

Party Crashers:

Pull around the block and park in the darkest part of the street.

Echo nods, guiding the automobile round the next turn before drifting to a halt by the curb - away from any street lights.

"Bad clothes for ce-le-bration. How get in?"

As the Norse warrior's fingers stroke the hilt of one of his daggers he experiences the (now familiar) increased awareness of sights, sounds, & scents as the senses of the wolf are once again bestowed upon him. Although he lacks The Whistler's critical ear for modern music, he too hears the strains of musicians accompanying a maiden's singing, along with the sounds of merry-making - or, at least, the rather gentle efforts the people of this world have the stomach to indulge in - it's hardly a proper party if his nostrils can't yet detect the distinct trace of beer-soaked blood shed in passion! ::withbeer

Twisting around in her seat Echo looks back at the powerful Norseman, taking a brief moment to allow her eyes to, even in the dim light available, drink in his raw masculinity. Quickly snapping herself out of whatever fantasies may be racing about her mind, the chaufeusse glances at her boss & Black Lotus as well, then offers in whispered tones,

"I guess that Banshee will enter via the roof..." her voice trails away as the eyes under the peaked cap & behind the domino mask involuntarily move to scan the night heavens, Echo's awe at witnessing the fright-costumed lady vigilante take to the air obviously still fresh in her mind. After a moment of silence she again focuses on the group, "... er... but I guess the rest of us are a little more earthbound. We could try to sneak in disguised - the boss does a wicked old woman & his frock's still in the trunk," Echo tips a wink in Whistler's direction ::wink , "or we could look for a backdoor or an open window or something. To be honest I'm more used to escaping bondage than trying to break into places..." ::sly

High above the night-darkened streets the lone figure of the Banshee soars closer to her target. Catching a particularly good thermal current as she banks over the rooftop of a well-heated bakery the lady vigilante gains some height & spots, a few streets distant, the roof of the townhouse which must belong to Goldstein - the gargoyles perched menacingly at the edges of the slopped, tiled, roof match the description she recieved earlier.

Shopping Spree:

"What, then, is our plan. Through the front door, or perhaps through that window up there?"

In his currant, un-bullet-riddled, state White Dragon imagines that he could dance blindfolded up to the second story window if, for some reason, the urge to do so possessed him. The thought brings with it the fond memory of old 'white eyebrows' from the monastry & his long hours of lessons in 'walking on air'. Bai Long doubts that he'll ever master the old man's speed in bounding up a sheer, rain-soaked, rock-face - but the modern wall facing him - with its many handholds & ledges - wouldn't challenge even a novice...

"Keep it simple... We need to cover or block the exits. Should be easy enough with your skills, Eckhardt... There's probably a back door too."

The man in white flashes a micro smile & nods his acknowledgement of The Watchman's assessment of his... talents...

"Ok, here's what I think: We check if there's a back door. If there is, we use that. If not, we go through the front. Either way we do it quietly, and seal it behind us. We make sure there's nobody on the ground floor and seal the other door as well, then proceed upstairs. If the layout of the rooms allow it I think you... should come up behind them. Be our ace in the hole."

Eckhardt again nods his agreement, gesturing towards White Dragon,

"Indeed, I imagine that you are the stealthiest of us all, whilst The Watchman here has a more... forceful... reputation, & I..." he takes in his own white outfit with a flourish, "... I failed to dress for the prowl..." ::sly

"Once we're there, we talk to them. If they give us trouble we improvise and try not to hurt them too much..."

Viktor again flashes a brief smile,

"Ah yes - 'talking' to criminals is another of The Watchman's reputations. I take it you'll be happy to handle the required interrogations?"

"Sound ok to you?"

Eckhardt nods, then gestures expansively towards the shop,

"Please, lead on..."

[Prince of Boredom]

Shopping Spree:

Bai Long nods in agreement as the plans are made. "I will follow you, then once inside, will attempt to find a more surreptitious way to access the second floor."

[Archer21]

Party Crashers:

As the Norse warrior's fingers stroke the hilt of one of his daggers he experiences the (now familiar) increased awareness of sights, sounds, & scents as the senses of the wolf are once again bestowed upon him. Although he lacks The Whistler's critical ear for modern music, he too hears the strains of musicians accompanying a maiden's singing, along with the sounds of merry-making - or, at least, the rather gentle efforts the people of this world have the stomach to indulge in - it's hardly a proper party if his nostrils can't yet detect the distinct trace of beer-soaked blood shed in passion!

A disdainful snort is the Viking's only comment on the pitiful state of this worlds festivities.

Twisting around in her seat Echo looks back at the powerful Norseman, taking a brief moment to allow her eyes to, even in the dim light available, drink in his raw masculinity.

Turning his head just as Echo looks back at him, his now wolflike eyesight easily pierces the gloom to observe the expression on her face, and he smiles in a rather...enticing fashion.

"I guess that Banshee will enter via the roof...er... but I guess the rest of us are a little more earthbound. We could try to sneak in disguised - the boss does a wicked old woman & his frock's still in the trunk, or we could look for a backdoor or an open window or something. To be honest I'm more used to escaping bondage than trying to break into places..."

Glancing back out the window to look at the building, Ulf' takes note of any suitable darkened windows, then opens the car door(with some irritation before he finds the right handle), then steps out. "I go window."

[Asbjørn]

Breaking and Entering

Viktor again flashes a brief smile,

"Ah yes - 'talking' to criminals is another of The Watchman's reputations. I take it you'll be happy to handle the required interrogations?"

A devilish grin briefly spreads on the Watchman's face.

"You got it." ::devil

"Please, lead on..."

The Watchman nods and pulls his hat down to shield his eyes from the snow. Checking two shoulder-holstered guns under his jacket he starts walking towards the shop.

Bai Long nods in agreement as the plans are made. "I will follow you, then once inside, will attempt to find a more surreptitious way to access the second floor."

" 'surreptitious'...?" ::huh

"What the hell is wrong with plain old english...?", the Watchman mutters under his breath and shakes his head.::rolleyes

Peering through the drifting snow he scans the row of buildings looking for a way to the back of the shop. Trusting in his knowledge of the general layout of the buildings in the area he takes the quickest and safest route, although he's not opposed to jumping a fence or forcing a gate to get there...

[Heritage]

Twisting around in her seat Echo looks back at the powerful Norseman, taking a brief moment to allow her eyes to, even in the dim light available, drink in his raw masculinity.

Karl/Whistler catches the glance, and feels like his heart's been pierced by an arrow of ice.

*If I'm not very careful, I'm going to lose her to the Norseman - but do I even have her now? I traipse around like a dandy, and I'm shocked that this bear of a man catches her eye? ::rolleyes But now is not the time...::sad*

Turning his head just as Echo looks back at him, his now wolflike eyesight easily pierces the gloom to observe the expression on her face, and he smiles in a rather...enticing fashion.

Only the sharpest ears can hear the masked man's gloved hand tighten around the shaft of his cane.

*He will not have her - we may fight side by side, but he will not have her.* ::angry

Quickly snapping herself out of whatever fantasies may be racing about her mind, the chaufeusse glances at her boss & Black Lotus as well, then offers in whispered tones,

"I guess that Banshee will enter via the roof..." her voice trails away as the eyes under the peaked cap & behind the domino mask involuntarily move to scan the night heavens, Echo's awe at witnessing the fright-costumed lady vigilante take to the air obviously still fresh in her mind. After a moment of silence she again focuses on the group, "... er... but I guess the rest of us are a little more earthbound. We could try to sneak in disguised - the boss does a wicked old woman & his frock's still in the trunk," Echo tips a wink in Whistler's direction ::wink, "or we could look for a backdoor or an open window or something. To be honest I'm more used to escaping bondage than trying to break into places..." ::sly

Glancing back out the window to look at the building, Ulf' takes note of any suitable darkened windows, then opens the car door(with some irritation before he finds the right handle), then steps out. "I go window."

Whistler attempts to slap the Viking as hard as he can on the back (though it's possible the Norseman fails to notice the hint of malice behind it) and grins just a bit too widely.

An excellent suggestion! Capital! I envision myself and Echo approaching the front door in disguise - do we have a dress for you in the back, dear? - whilst our burly Viking friend waits for the perfect opportunity to come crashing through the window like an enraged bison! Meanwhile, our lethal Lotus can either slip in behind Echo and me and keep to the shadows, or search for an alternate entrance for a more stealthy approach. How does that suit people?

[tooho]

Party Crashers:

Eyeing the Whistler and Echo for a second, Lotus nods then shifts in her seat to pat her guns. "I'll stay with the warrior till I am no longer able. If that is alright with you, Viking? Maybe we can find a quiet room to enter. My main priority is searching for information. I'll be trying to get to the study and any unoccupied rooms. My weapons are a little noisy for a use during a party so I'll try to not come upon anyone." ::wink

Whether the Viking agrees, Black Lotus moves to exit. "Enjoy the party. Shall we meet back here in an hour?"

[Archer21]

An excellent suggestion! Capital! I envision myself and Echo approaching the front door in disguise - do we have a dress for you in the back, dear? - whilst our burly Viking friend waits for the perfect opportunity to come crashing through the window like an enraged bison! Meanwhile, our lethal Lotus can either slip in behind Echo and me and keep to the shadows, or search for an alternate entrance for a more stealthy approach. How does that suit people?

Confused by the torrent coming from Whistler, Ulf' is still trying to mentally translate when Black Lotus speaks up.

"I'll stay with the warrior till I am no longer able. If that is alright with you, Viking? Maybe we can find a quiet room to enter. My main priority is searching for information. I'll be trying to get to the study and any unoccupied rooms. My weapons are a little noisy for a use during a party so I'll try to not come upon anyone."

Switching gears, he nods at the gunfighter. "Sneak, find in-for-mation. I watch, you look."

Sparing a puzzled glance for Whistler, the Viking moves off with Black Lotus to find an unobserved way inside.

[ezekiel]

Assuring herself there aren't any guards lurking on the rooftop, soon an extra gargoyle squats on the townhouse's roof. Biding her time, careful not to be seen or make any noise, the vigilante crawls along the side wall of the house as an insect, peeping through a window to check whether or not its occupied.

OOC: She'll try to find the best point of entry...

[ProfPotts]

Goldstein's Jewellers:

"I will follow you, then once inside, will attempt to find a more surreptitious way to access the second floor."

"You got it."

Eckhardt nods his agreement & soon he & White Dragon both are following The Watchman as he heads across the street. Since the shop is part of a terraced row, squeezing as many buildings as possible into the heart of the city, & backs onto a similar row in the next street, there is no 'back door' as such, so the trio are forced to approach the front (& only) door.

Quickly glancing around to make sure they are still alone, the three quietly ascend the few stone steps which lead from the sidewalk to the shop's door. Looking through the poorly lit gloom of the snow-filled night at the door's lock, Viktor whispers,

"So, gentlemen - who's going to do the honours?"

Goldstein's Party:

"I go window."

An excellent suggestion! Capital! I envision myself and Echo approaching the front door in disguise - do we have a dress for you in the back, dear? - whilst our burly Viking friend waits for the perfect opportunity to come crashing through the window like an enraged bison! Meanwhile, our lethal Lotus can either slip in behind Echo and me and keep to the shadows, or search for an alternate entrance for a more stealthy approach. How does that suit people?

"I'll stay with the warrior till I am no longer able. If that is alright with you, Viking? Maybe we can find a quiet room to enter. My main priority is searching for information. I'll be trying to get to the study and any unoccupied rooms. My weapons are a little noisy for a use during a party so I'll try to not come upon anyone... Enjoy the party. Shall we meet back here in an hour?"

"Sneak, find in-for-mation. I watch, you look."

The plan agreed, Ulf' & Black Lotus sneak off towards the impressive townhouse, trying to locate an unobserved window (although, considering the amount of activity going on inside, that may not be an easy task). Meanwhile The Whistler waits outside the car whilst Echo slips into something a little less comfortable...

... Soon enough the Phaeton's door is opened to reveal a Parisian-heeled foot & silk-stockinged leg... followed by the rest of The Whistler's attractive partner clad in a rather fetching low-backed evening dress of blue velvet. White silk elbow-length gloves cover the young lady's hands & arms, & a long string of pearls falls from her heck to her waist. An ostrich-feather headband completes the outfit. Smiling, Echo shows off the dress with a quick twirl - the motion managing to draw Whistler's eye to the way the ankle-length dress is slit to mid-thigh along one leg,

"So, boss - what do you think?" ::bigsmile

Meanwhile Black Lotus has trailed the Norseman to the alley down one side of the townhouse. A ten-foot high brick wall, topped with foot-long iron spikes, helps to ensure the property's privacy, but beyond the wall the pair note a window on the top floor of the house - large enough for even a big man to clamber through - which has no light beyond & shows no evidence of activity. On the other side of the wall, in the narrow space between it & the house, they can hear the muffled noises of servants going about their business - putting out rubbish from the kitchens, or ducking out for a crafty smoke.

As the Norseman & Asian-woman are contemplating their options, The Banshee alights atop the building's slanted roof. Taking a moment to crouch at the edge of the roof, she observes the party guests arriving through the front door beneath her, & hears the faint sounds of merry-making drifting up through the chill night air. The quick glance also confirms that only the top floor of the building - presumably the attic of the house - appears to be devoid of illumination. Dancing lightly across the roof-top to a near-by dormer window at the front of the house, Banshee peers through the dust-covered glass - nine small panels in a wooden frame - to confirm that there are no lights on inside. The moon & starlight provide poor illumination, but she thinks that the attic looks to be a storage space - full of boxes & old furniture covered in dust-sheets.

[Archer21]

Looking around, Ulf' tries to find a shadowy spot, perhaps near the end of the wall, where few servants are apt to spot he and Lotus climbing over. Quietly, he motions for Black Lotus to do the same, and indicates with his hands that he'll help boost her over if they can find such an area.

It seems obvious to the gunfighter that the Viking himself has no worries about himself clearing the wall.

[Heritage]

The plan agreed, Ulf' & Black Lotus sneak off towards the impressive townhouse, trying to locate an unobserved window (although, considering the amount of activity going on inside, that may not be an easy task). Meanwhile The Whistler waits outside the car whilst Echo slips into something a little less comfortable...

... Soon enough the Phaeton's door is opened to reveal a Parisian-heeled foot & silk-stockinged leg... followed by the rest of The Whistler's attractive partner clad in a rather fetching low-backed evening dress of blue velvet. White silk elbow-length gloves cover the young lady's hands & arms, & a long string of pearls falls from her heck to her waist. An ostrich-feather headband completes the outfit. Smiling, Echo shows off the dress with a quick twirl - the motion managing to draw Whistler's eye to the way the ankle-length dress is slit to mid-thigh along one leg,

"So, boss - what do you think?" ::bigsmile

The mysterious Whistler is struck dumb for a few seconds ::blink - when at last he can get his mouth to move, he speaks with some difficulty.

It's very....uh....fuh-fetching.::wub

He shakes his head a little, then looks over his shoulder to make sure Ulf is no longer nearby. Asssured that they are alone, he leans in close, his body shaking somewhat.

Listen, Echo - Polly. I...I don't know if I've ever told you how much you mean to me; not as an assistant or fighting by my side, but as a person...and a woman. ::blush

Karl starts pacing a bit, keeping his voice low but gesturing broadly with his hands.

I know this isn't the time to bring this up, but - you must know that I have...feelings for you. Wonderful, confusing feelings that I don't always understand. And I don't know how you feel about me - if I'm just your boss or a friend or some kind of buffoon, but I need you to know how I feel, even if you might not...share the same feelings that I do. And, and if you laugh and think this is all silly....well, I suppose that's fine - no, it would be torture, but I don't care.

He peels off his mask, and takes her gloved hands in his own.

I do believe I love you, Miss Proctor...and I pray you feel the same. ::bigsmile ::wub ::unsure

[tooho]

Following behind Ulf silently, Lotus smiles at his gesture. The flash of her first full genuine smile seems to lift the weights that hold her face in such a dour position usually.

Waiting till she is positive no one is in the alleyway beyond, she winks at Ulf as she accepts the boost. Turning her body and using one hand to flip herself at the top, she vaults herself over the wall in an agile twist, landing as quietly as she can in a crouch beyond, listening quietly to see if someone is aware of their intrusion.

[Asbjørn]

Quickly glancing around to make sure they are still alone, the three quietly ascend the few stone steps which lead from the sidewalk to the shop's door. Looking through the poorly lit gloom of the snow-filled night at the door's lock, Viktor whispers,

"So, gentlemen - who's going to do the honours?"

Waiting a second or two for one of the others to volunteer, the Watchman then reaches inside his jacket and produces his keys to the city. He steps forward, hunches down in front of the lock and examines it quickly before he inserts the tools.

As he gets ready to pick the lock a thought occurs to him, and he carefully tries the doorknob. You never know your luck...

If the door is locked, he proceeds to pick it, and then open it carefully.

[using a willpower point on this, prof. Don't want to embarass myself on the first job...]

[ProfPotts]

Keys to the City:

Carefully trying the doorknob of Goldstein's Jewellers, The Watchman finds the door locked but (thankfully) well-oiled enough that his attempt caused but a minimum of noise - nothing that could have been heard from the next story up. The vigilante also realises that the quality of maintenance on the door's handle is a good sign that the door itself will be well-oiled - & therefore the entrance of himself & his companions should be equally quiet.

Taking a closer look at the lock itself The Watchman recognises it as a solid, reliable, brand - expensive & hard to 'open' - as befits a jeweller's store or, his skeptical mind adds, a man with secrets to protect...

Taking his time & focusing his concentration The Watchman's efforts soon pay off as his lock picks feel out & catch the pins within the mechanism - with a swift twist of his wrist the lock clicks quietly open.

Observing The Watchman's display of craft with some interest Eckhardt smiles & nods as the door is unlocked, but - not wishing to alert those inside - says nothing. However, before either of the other two can push the door open, the iceman holds out a hand to stop them, then points to the top of the door - the place where a shop's bell is usually situated. As Eckhardt points a chill trail of white vapour seeps from the location &, when the man himself gently pushes the door in The Watchman & White Dragon can see that the bell doesn't ring because its clapper has been frozen in place...

... The lower floor of the store sports three glass counters - each containing a variety of jewellery, although there are gaps where some of the more valuable items have, presumably, been removed to the shop's safe. Behind the counters are a cash register, & behind that a door - slightly ajar - to the back. Beyond the door appears to be a narrow set of stairs leading up (from which can be seen some light & from which the sounds of movement can be heard), & past the stairs a back room - filled with shelves holding boxes of all kinds, as well as a simple table with a couple of chairs for the staff to use on their breaks.

Glancing round with the others, Eckhardt then waits for his companions to make the next moves...

Storming the Castle:

Prowling down the alley outside Goldstein's home until he can neither hear nor smell anybody nearby on the other side of the wall Ulfmund gestures towards his Asian companion - & is rewarded with a rare smile ::biggrin .

Assisted by the Norseman Black Lotus vaults & twists over the wall - an impressive display of acrobatics, although not quiet enough to clear the iron spikes atop the wall without injury. One spike catches the lady adventure's midrift as she passes over them, tearing her costume & drawing a deep scratch across her stomach. Landing silently in a feline crouch at the base of the wall, Ayame takes a brief moment to feel the wound - although painful it isn't in any way life-threatening, & bleeds only a little before clotting in the chill night air. [black Lotus is Bruised with Bashing damage]

Glancing around Black Lotus notes a servants' entrance to the side of the house to her right - the open door letting a pool of light spill out around it, thankfully making it even harder for those wandering to & fro from the place to see the lady vigillante where she crouches in the shadows well beyond the radius of illumination. Roughly an equal distance to her left is the rear corner of the townhouse - with shadowed gardens beyond visible only by the play of starlight across the snow-blanketed lawns. Above her lies the dark window she & Ulfmund spotted earlier - fittings & drainage along the walls would appear to make the climb to the window a fairly simple matter.

Confessions of a Whistler:

Listen, Echo - Polly. I...I don't know if I've ever told you how much you mean to me; not as an assistant or fighting by my side, but as a person...and a woman.

Not catching on to her boss's serious attitude Polly grins, running her hands down the dress & pouting as she replies,

"I didn't think you'd noticed..." ::wink

I know this isn't the time to bring this up, but - you must know that I have...feelings for you. Wonderful, confusing feelings that I don't always understand. And I don't know how you feel about me - if I'm just your boss or a friend or some kind of buffoon...

Polly lets forth a small titter of a giggle, slapping Karl lightly on the chest,

"If you're some kind of buffoon, boss, then you're one of a kind!"

... but I need you to know how I feel, even if you might not...share the same feelings that I do. And, and if you laugh and think this is all silly....well, I suppose that's fine - no, it would be torture, but I don't care.

Finally catching the magician's serious tone Polly frowns,

"I... Boss... I..."

I do believe I love you, Miss Proctor...and I pray you feel the same.

For a moment Polly just stares ::blink , seemingly (for once) at a loss for words... Then she turns away, feigning the removal of some mote from her eye,

"Um... you don't... you can't... I..."

As his assistant's voice trails off Karl could almost believe that time had frozen - if not for the gentle flakes of snow falling between him & his view of Polly's back. The magician starts to feel he should say something more when a small shiver passes through Polly's form. Turning towards the townhouse - managing, Karl notes, to avoid any eye contact with him - Polly whispers in a voice which even he has a hard time hearing,

"We'd better get to that party."

[ezekiel]

The Banshee determines where the windows lock would be and then chooses the appropriate glass panel to remove. Taking care to brush off the glass to assure good adhesion, she then rests her right palm on the glass pane. Making sure her legs are properly braced against the wall and holding her in place, she then sticks out her left thumb and applies to the window, circling her right hand.

*Scrreeeeeeech*

A slight grating sound is heard as the diamond stud protruding from her thumb does its job. Once finished, the dark heroine pulls out the pane with her right hand and reaches inside the window with her left arm, reaching for the lock...reaching...

[archer]

Hearing the whisper of ripping cloth as Black Lotus clears the barrier, the Viking glances up, curious. Keen eyes noting the bit of cloth pinned to the ironwork, he grins briefly. Taking a step or two back, he gauges the wall's height, then grips his twin blades tightly and sprints forward to leap over; trying to snatch the bit of cloth as he goes.

[Asbjørn]

... The lower floor of the store sports three glass counters - each containing a variety of jewellery, although there are gaps where some of the more valuable items have, presumably, been removed to the shop's safe. Behind the counters are a cash register, & behind that a door - slightly ajar - to the back. Beyond the door appears to be a narrow set of stairs leading up (from which can be seen some light & from which the sounds of movement can be heard), & past the stairs a back room - filled with shelves holding boxes of all kinds, as well as a simple table with a couple of chairs for the staff to use on their breaks.

As soon as the door again is closed behind them, the Watchman turns and looks around the interior of the shop. He looks at Eckhardt, points to the door they just entered through and mouths the words 'seal it' before quietly walking through the room towards the cash register and the door. Moving with the care born of years of training and experience he casts a glance behind the counters to see if there are any weapons stashed there, before silently going into the back room.

Once there he takes a quick look around, looking for weapons, other exits and other things that could pose a problem. If there are none he looks to Bai Long and points to his own eyes with two fingers, then points up the stairs indicating that the martial artist should take point.

[tooho]

Sparing the Viking a glance to make sure he makes it over without issue, Lotus eyes the path to the window carefully for a moment before beginning her climb upward trying to move quickly and quietly up to the window. ::ninja

[Prince of Boredom]

Once there he takes a quick look around, looking for weapons, other exits and other things that could pose a problem. If there are none he looks to Bai Long and points to his own eyes with two fingers, then points up the stairs indicating that the martial artist should take point.

Bai Long waits for the Watchman to make his rounds, then slowly creeps up the stairs, just high enough to be able to peek his head above the top stair and try to get a layout of the room at the top, and its occupants.

[Heritage]

As his assistant's voice trails off Karl could almost believe that time had frozen - if not for the gentle flakes of snow falling between him & his view of Polly's back. The magician starts to feel he should say something more when a small shiver passes through Polly's form. Turning towards the townhouse - managing, Karl notes, to avoid any eye contact with him - Polly whispers in a voice which even he has a hard time hearing,

"We'd better get to that party."

Karl stares blankly at Polly for a few seconds, then finally nods to himself.

*I'm an idiot. And now Polly knows, too.*

He fumbles with his opera cape, dropping his fighting cane in the process; he deftly scoops it out of the snow as he makes his way back to the trunk of the Phaeton.

Let me just get my...beaver coat, and we'll be off.

Karl opens the trunk and bitterly throws his wadded-up cape and slouch hat inside - the long beaver coat is warm, too warm for him in his agitated state. He clings to the side of the car, nearly doubled over as he forces the chill night air into his lungs to clear his head and unclench his stomach.

*Only an amazing imbecile would think to bring up something like this during a mission - get a grip, man, or you'll get her and everyone else killed.*

The stricken vigilante decides to leave his cane in the trunk - it's too obvious, and tonight he'd be useless with it anyway, in his condition. A sane man would call the whole thing off, but it was too late for that; Karl slams down the lid of the trunk, tucks his mask inside his coat and snaps open an opera hat, placing it firmly on his head as he lurches mechanically back to Polly's side. He tries to force a smile, small tears in the corner of his eyes as he holds out a shaking arm.

Shall we, Miss Proctor? ::unsure ::bigsmile ::sad

[ProfPotts]

Cutting glass:

Deftly carving out a section of glass from the high dormer window, The Banshee easily manages to slide a slender wrist inside & slip the simple catch which secures it. Sliding the window open causes some of the sheets covering the various items stored in the attic to stir in the chill night air - but that appears to be the sole sign of movement within...

Scaling the wall:

Feeling the powerful spirit of the great wolf surge within his limbs, the Viking takes a short run then leaps high - clearing the wall in a single mighty bound! Landing beside the slight figure of Black Lotus the Norseman makes hardly a sound...

... Soon the masked Asian woman is leading the ascent towards the attic window - the climb is simple enough for both athletes, & they appear to be making good time...

Party Time:

Shall we, Miss Proctor?

For a moment Polly's face is a mask of confusion & concern, but then she manages to hide her own emotions as she takes her boss's arm & the couple head towards the party. Karl notes with some small bitterness that Polly's own time on the stage has taught her to push her own concerns out of sight & mind when performing, just as his own skills allow him to...

... As the pair approach the doorman the two flanking 'heavies' cast suspicious eyes over them, whilst the doorman himself glances down the street the way they came & asks,

"Evenin' Sir, Madam... Trouble with your automobile? Surely you wouldn't walk on a night like this? If there's anyone we can call for you?"

Ushering the pair towards the waiting warmth inside the expensive house he adds,

"If you'd just like to present your invitation, Sir, & we can get you inside where it's warm..."

At the jewelers:

Following The Watchman's gestures Eckhardt holds a hand up towards the shop's door - a chill wafts through the room as a layer of ice quickly forms across the portal, effectively sealing it. The proceedure causes a few quiet cracking noises, but there doesn't appear to be any signs of those upstairs being alerted...

Quickly searching the lower floor, The Watchman finds no weapons, & sees no other exits from the building (a fire hazard to be sure - but then, this is New York!). Another signal sends White Dragon prowling up the stairs...

The Attic:

Inside the attic The Banshee starts to look for a way down into the main house, but is suddenly drawn to a halt when an unusual light flares to life amongst the stored brick-a-brack. Coloured lights - white, purple, blue - suddenly flicker across the walls, & a sizzling, popping, sound drifts over from the same spot. Glancing round a stack of wooden boxes the vigilante finds the source of the disturbance - a glass sphere or globe, about a foot or so across, like a fortune-teller's crystal ball, resting amongst a pile of copper-coloured metal rods of various lengths. Inside the glass sphere is crackling lightning - jumping about in a constantly changing spider's web of colour. The sphere doesn't appear to be connected to anything...

... Approaching the attic's side window outside Black Lotus & The Viking spot the sudden dancing, coloured, illumination from within...

The Shop:

Peeping over the edge of the next floor up, White Dragon sees three men - each with an electric torch, searching through what appears to be the shop's office. By their pinstriped suits, & the heavy automatic handgun each carries, the martial arts master is led to the presumption that these guys are quite possibly mobsters of some variety. Still, their search is less destructive than the usual ransack proceedure such men like to follow - they appear to be pulling out all the paperwork they can find, looking for something specific...

... Downstairs The Watchman's attention is suddenly drawn to one of the display cases as what appears to be a crystal ball about a foot across starts to glow with a dance of inner lightning! Eckhardt takes a step back from the case, shrugging his own surprise to The Watchman, & glancing towards the stairs to see if the display has been noticed by the others in the building...

[ezekiel]

The Banshee's eyes widen at the sight of the sphere as she suddenly becomes conscious of the potentially harmful attention gathering illumination. Lunging her hands at an old overcoat hanging near her (or whatever other thick, dark cloth that might be hanging around) she whips it back and covers the sphere with a speed that belies her human nature.

[activates Blazing Speed]

[Prince of Boredom]

The Shop:

Peeping over the edge of the next floor up, White Dragon sees three men - each with an electric torch, searching through what appears to be the shop's office. By their pinstriped suits, & the heavy automatic handgun each carries, the martial arts master is led to the presumption that these guys are quite possibly mobsters of some variety. Still, their search is less destructive than the usual ransack proceedure such men like to follow - they appear to be pulling out all the paperwork they can find, looking for something specific...

Quickly scanning the room, Bai Long quietly pulls his head back and turns towards the Watchman. He raises his hand and holds up three fingers, then imitates holding a gun in his hand. As he awaits further instruction from his mysterious ally his

... attention is suddenly drawn to one of the display cases as what appears to be a crystal ball about a foot across starts to glow with a dance of inner lightning!

Bai Long maintains his calm, and glances back up the stairs to see if the 'wise guys' react to the lights.

[Heritage]

Party Time:

For a moment Polly's face is a mask of confusion & concern, but then she manages to hide her own emotions as she takes her boss's arm & the couple head towards the party. Karl notes with some small bitterness that Polly's own time on the stage has taught her to push her own concerns out of sight & mind when performing, just as his own skills allow him to...

... As the pair approach the doorman the two flanking 'heavies' cast suspicious eyes over them, whilst the doorman himself glances down the street the way they came & asks,

"Evenin' Sir, Madam... Trouble with your automobile? Surely you wouldn't walk on a night like this? If there's anyone we can call for you?"

Ushering the pair towards the waiting warmth inside the expensive house he adds,

"If you'd just like to present your invitation, Sir, & we can get you inside where it's warm..."

←

Karl laughs lightly.

If you must know, we took a cab tonight, and the driver was hopeless, just hopeless! Finally, we just said 'stop the car!', and it's a good thing he did, or else we might have ended up in Connecticut, right, darling?

He starts patting his coat absently.

Invitations, invitations - darling, did you grab the invitations? I left them on - oh my goodness gracious, I think they're still on the mantelpiece! I put them next to your father's clock specifically so we'd remember them, and now look what's happened! You know, I never did like that old hunk of junk - I'm referring to the clock, of course, darling.

After giving her a quick peck on the cheek, he winks secretly at the doorman as he brushes snow off his beaver coat ::wink

Look, just tell Mr. Goldstein that David and Dolores Holcombe are outside shivering like a pair of orphaned pooches. I'm sure he won't mind us waiting out here; it gives me plenty of time to work out the details of our next venture together. Fifty percent - ho-ho, now there's a thought! That Goldy has some imagination, doesn't he, darling? ::laugh

[tooho]

The Attic

Frowning at the light show inside but unsure what it means, Lotus reaches out to test the window and see if is locked. Looking to Ulf, she tries to lean toward him to whisper, "Do you wish to enter though there are lights, Viking? I've never seen such a display. It maybe one of the Doctor's inventions."

[Asbjørn]

Quickly scanning the room, Bai Long quietly pulls his head back and turns towards the Watchman.  He raises his hand and holds up three fingers, then imitates holding a gun in his hand.

The Watchman nods in response, and seems about to reply, when...

... Downstairs The Watchman's attention is suddenly drawn to one of the display cases as what appears to be a crystal ball about a foot across starts to glow with a dance of inner lightning! Eckhardt takes a step back from the case, shrugging his own surprise to The Watchman, & glancing towards the stairs to see if the display has been noticed by the others in the building...

Trusting Bai Long to keep an eye on the goons the Watchman slowly approaches the glowing ball, looking around for a piece of cloth to cover the display case with. As he gets closer his eyes study the ball and display case intently, looking for any sign that the flickering light reacts to his presence.