Play@YSDC

Posted: **Mon Apr 08, 2019 1:20 am**

Once away from the dangers of the abandoned park, the adventurers and the police officers notice that a large group of people has gathered just outside. Somewhere around one hundred folks, mostly young, many carrying placards, surround a speaker standing on a platform hastily assembled from cardboard boxes and lumber. As the party approaches cautiously (there being no other way to exit the park, and keep away from the slow but steady creatures after them), they can make out some of the chants, which tend to overlap each other and echo off the park's buildings.

Hey, hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today?

Hell, no, we won't go!

Up against the wall, . . .

The person standing on the platform raises his hands for silence. Amazingly, this happens almost at once, as the crowd listens intently. The speaker is a young man dressed in the robes of an Indian mystic. Judging by his waist-length curly blond hair, suntanned skin, and blazing blue eyes, however, he is hardly of that ethnicity.

"Brothers and sisters," he shouts, without the aid of a megaphone. "No longer will we suffer under the Man!"

Cries of encouragement come from the audience.

"The Revolution is here, and we got the Power, baby!"

As the crowd cheers, the man points one hand up towards the sky, at about a forty-five degree angle, and shouts something unintelligible. A sphere of flame about the size of a baseball emerges from his hand and flies off at great speed, soon lost to sight, apparently destined to land somewhere in the city.

Posted: **Mon Apr 08, 2019 2:07 am**

"How is he..." Zara's voice trails off - she is clearly gobsmaked at the spectacle. She's also visibly starting to flag as her adrenaline drains

Posted: **Mon Apr 08, 2019 10:07 am**

"Good Lord..."

Tony is somewhat taken aback by the spectacle, but quickly pulls himself together.

"Some kind of flame thrower perhaps? In any case, let's not forget what is following behind us. We may have to warn the crowd."

Seeing Zara beginning to flag, he offers her his arm.

Posted: **Mon Apr 08, 2019 2:39 pm**

She takes it with a smile of gratitude.

Posted: **Tue Apr 09, 2019 3:09 am**

Meanwhile, Liz has been discharged from the hospital in stable condition. Moonflower is a bit weaker, but is released under the care of Liz, there being no other friends or relatives available at the moment. It's obvious that the emergency room staff is eager to clear as many beds as possible, as burn cases continue to show up. If asked about her experiences underground, Moonflower only responds "Bummer. Bummer." She is otherwise in a fairly passive state of mind, willing to accompany Liz as she pleases.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

By this time a squad of Los Angeles police officers in riot gear show up. One in full body armor announces over a megaphone "You have five minutes to disperse. Five minutes."

The crowd responds with angry shouts, but is not yet ready to take on the cops directly. It can be seen that the cops are ready with clubs and tear gas.

By now, the four skeletal figures in robes emerge. With everything that is going on, not much notice is taken of them. The young man addressing the crowd, however, is aware of their arrival.

"The pigs think they can scare us off with their dirty tricks! No way!

BURN, BABY, BURN!"

He raises both arms and screams inarticulately. Four fireballs emerge from his hands and fly towards the skeletons. The creatures burst into flame and are quickly reduced to ashes.

After this effort, the man collapses. A group of young people near him pick him up and lead him to a dune buggy parked close by. They pull out with a squeal of tires and make their way away from the crowd.

"Nice fireworks," the cop announces. "Now just go home like good little girls and boys. One minute, and then we start spraying."

The crowd does not seem eager to leave.

Posted: **Tue Apr 09, 2019 4:20 am**

"Let's get out of here," Zara suggests. "That guy's got rid of the skeletons, and I've been in enough fights today."

Posted: **Tue Apr 09, 2019 9:13 am**

"Not a bad idea Zara, although perhaps Agent Carson would like to call in a team to clear up those tunnels? I'd sleep better knowing that there are no more of those liquid things and the Embalmer's gear is cleaned out. We also have his remains to analyse, not to mention that coded sheet left by our Soviet comrades."

He cranes his neck to see what's happening to the crowd.

"I'm also intrigued by our flame flinging friend..."

Wary of getting involved in the inevitable clash between the protesters and the police, he attempts to catch the eye of someone on the periphery of the mob, hoping to draw them away and engage them in conversation.

Posted: **Wed Apr 10, 2019 3:16 am**

Liz contacts the others on the radio. "Moonflower and I just got discharged from hospital," she says. "Where are you? We can come meet you."

Posted: **Wed Apr 10, 2019 7:13 pm**

Lew steps forward and using his best trial projection speaking voice, calls out to the crowd.

"There's no reason to stay here. The speaker whom you came to see has already wisely left the scene. To stay now would only cause problems between you and the police. There is no reason for a confrontation. Please disburse quickly before anything happens."

Posted: **Thu Apr 11, 2019 5:34 am**

Zara lets Liz know where they are.

Posted: **Thu Apr 11, 2019 3:44 pm**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew steps forward and using his best trial projection speaking voice, calls out to the crowd.

"There's no reason to stay here. The speaker whom you came to see has already wisely left the scene. To stay now would only cause problems between you and the police. There is no reason for a confrontation. Please disburse quickly before anything happens."

OOC,Intelligence Roll 16 (+3 for Well Spoken) 19 [dice]220381:0[/dice]

Spoiler:

There is some muttering among the assembled protesters, more than a few of whom have been kept out of jail by Lew's defense. A member of the Black Panther Party tells his companions that Lew is a true "soul brother," and word passes through the crowd to "play it cool."

There's some exchange of insults between the protesters and the police, but no violence, thanks to Lew's quick thinking.

As the crowd disperses, one bearded, long-haired, heavily beaded, sunglasses-wearing, flower-covered man comes up to Carson and hands him an anti-war pamphlet. Certain letters have been underlined in pencil, in a way that only someone trained in codes and ciphers would understand.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Thu Apr 11, 2019 3:55 pm**

With Lew's sensible entreaty calming the situation and dispersing the crowd, Tony abandons his attempt to speak to a protester and rejoins the others.

"How odd. Perhaps we should meet up with Liz and Moonflower; maybe at a nearby cafe? I must confess to feeling rather hungry."

Posted: **Thu Apr 11, 2019 7:15 pm**

Zara looks down at their sewage-caked wetsuits and overalls. "I don't think a cafe's going to let us in like this. Meet at the Sospiri in a couple of hours after we get cleaned up? They do pretty good food."

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 3:45 am**

Liz picks up her Aston Martin and stops back at her hotel room with Moonflower to change into a little black dress. She'll lend an outfit to Moonflower if they're close enough in size. She then brings Moonflower to the Sospiri after Zara lets her know they're heading there.

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 9:05 am**

Tony looks down at his own sodden overalls; perhaps a scrub-up and a moustache waxing is in order before tiffin.

He will meet up with the others once he is suitably attired and coiffured.

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 9:42 am**

At the Sospiri:

Carson addresses the group. "Well, it looks like y'all have a chance to convince my bosses that you aren't a threat to the fabric of American society, even the limeys. Since the cops don't seem to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time, we want you to help investigate this rabble-rouser with the pyrotechnics. We believe he has some kind of base, a hippie commune, out in the desert."

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 3:48 pm**

No doubt pleased to be able to kick back and relax for a while, the adventurers spend some time eating and drinking at Sospiri. Some of those present may not be entirely familiar with California cuisine, but Moonflower seems to be enjoying her vegetarian nutburger with avocado and sprouts. It's probably a good thing that she remembers almost nothing about her recent experiences.

"Must have got some bad acid," she remarks casually. "I'll stick to weed from now on. It's, like, organic, you know?"

Under the influence of more than a little gin, Zara idly sketches with paper and pencil while conversation goes on around her. A radio softly broadcasts the local traffic ("expect bumper-to-bumper conditions on the freeways, as usual"), weather ("Santa Ana winds will be howling through mid-October, bringing extremely dry conditions and temperatures up to one hundred degrees"), and news ("the fires plaguing Venice are under control, the Fire Marshall says, with windy conditions blamed for the outbreak"). She produces a drawing of a man in what appears to be a British military uniform of the Napoleonic Era.

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 4:27 pm**

Tony inspects the fare laid before him, wondering if they at least have any decent mustard. He mulls over Carson's request for assistance.

"While I hardly consider myself 'the man', I am intrigued by this flame-flinging fellow, especially if he's the cause of these fires we're hearing about. If your orginisation is happy to share what they've discovered down in the tunnels and the contents of Bolowski's coded message, then in return I shall be happy to return the favour by helping you out.

He stops, noticing the sketch Zara has drawn.

"Someone you know m'dear?"

Posted: **Fri Apr 12, 2019 9:08 pm**

Zara appears at the Sospiri wearing a bright rainbow-coloured dress, a little longer than she's tended to wear until now.

jp1885 wrote:He stops, noticing the sketch Zara has drawn."Someone you know m'dear?"

"Mm? No, no idea, I was just doodling. You like it?" (If Tony answers in the affirmative, she offers it to him).

Posted: **Sat Apr 13, 2019 3:07 am**

"Handsome chap," says Liz, looking at the drawing. "I'll bet he had a way with the ladies." She listens as the others describe the flame-flinging man. "That explains why there were so many burn victims in hospital. He must have some form of pyrokinesis - the ability to create and control fire with one's mind."

Posted: **Sat Apr 13, 2019 11:30 am**

Tony happily accepts Zara's gift.

"How very kind. Looks a bit like an ancestor of mine: Colonel Patchpole of the 36th Regiment of Foot. I'd like to say he died bravely in battle, but alas he came a cropper in a bordello en-route to Waterloo."

He grins, carefully putting the sketch into an inside jacket pocket.

"Pyrokenisis Liz? An unsettling theory... If I hadn't just witnessed that craziness beneath the Pee-Oh-Pee, I'd say it was a bonkers theory, but now I'm open to any possibility."

Posted: **Sat Apr 13, 2019 4:52 pm**

"It looked like he was throwing the fire around willy nilly, like he didn't care who got hurt," Zara says. "I don't feel like proving anything to your bosses Mr Carson, but I'll help."

Posted: **Sun Apr 14, 2019 12:04 am**

"An ancestor of mine had a friend similar to the one in the drawing too," says Liz, "a Captain William Palliser."

Posted: **Sun Apr 14, 2019 6:26 am**

"I don't know how he was throwing balls of fire around but I am with you in trying to find or stop that man for harming any more innocents. It appears he has a gift for inciting people too. Men like him are dangerous."

Lew continues. "But did you see how he seemed to weaken after he cast all four in succession."

Posted: **Sun Apr 14, 2019 2:27 pm**

"That's a very good point Lew. One worth remembering I'll wager."

"Well Liz, if the chap in the drawing does indeed prove to be your ancestor's chum, then you may of course keep the sketch. If of course the artist doesn't mind me giving it away."

"Rumour has it that my mother's side is descended from a wandering gypsy. Don't bring that up in front of her though - deflates her balloon somewhat."

He taps his nose and grins.

Posted: **Sun Apr 14, 2019 4:40 pm**

"A Gypsy? Groovy,"" Zara says. "I don't know if it's anyone, it just came into my head." Despite her words, she frowns slightly at the picture - though she still seems happy enough for either Tony or Liz to have it.

Posted: **Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:28 pm**

"You should keep it, Tony," says Liz. "She gave it to you. I'd just like to take a picture of it. I can't be sure if it looks like my ancestor's friend. I've never seen a portrait of him. I'm only going by the descriptions in my ancestor's writings. There's probably no way to know whether or not it's supposed to be him anyway. It is good to know that excessive use of his abilities weakened our pyrokinetic friend. We'll need to be prepared before we meet him, or even get near him considering how he flings fire around with mad abandon. We'll need fireproof clothes, something lined with asbestos, as well as fire extinguishers and burn ointments."

Posted: **Mon Apr 15, 2019 12:00 pm**

"I'm sure my people can get hold of such things Liz - I'll have my man go on a shopping spree and deliver the requisites here. Oh, and by all means snap away."

Posted: **Mon Apr 15, 2019 3:47 pm**

"Pyromaniac?" Moonflower muses idly. "Sounds like those folks who got run out of town a while back, the Temple of something or other. Bad scene, man. They used to, like, set fires and worship them or something. Got the locals bent out of shape. I heard they moved somewhere out near Barstow, in the middle of nowhere. Out on Route 66. You know, 'get your kicks'," she finishes, fading off into giggles.

Posted: **Mon Apr 15, 2019 4:39 pm**

"Sounds heavy," Zara says in the hope that it will keep Moonflower talking.

Posted: **Mon Apr 15, 2019 7:56 pm**

"Heavy indeed... Perhaps a little research is in order. Moonflower, can you remember this freaky cat's name?"

Posted: **Tue Apr 16, 2019 5:24 am**

Liz takes out her camera and photographs the drawing. "That has to be connected," says Liz. "We can have a look at their old temple. Maybe there will be clues there about who they are and what they're planning."

Posted: **Thu Apr 18, 2019 3:08 am**

Spoiler:

"Ummmm . . . I don't remember the dude's name. Maybe something like a light bulb? Or a car? Something freaky, anyway."

Despite this lapse of memory, Moonflower is able to lead the investigators to the place where the fellow's so-called temple was located. It's a fairly short walk away, in one of Venice's many decrepit areas. Obviously abandoned for some time, all that remains is an empty storefront. There's a padlocked door, obviously unused for a while, judging by the rust, and a single, fairly large window, painted black, preventing anyone from seeing inside. Compared to other places in the area, it's unusual that no vandal's rock has broken the window.

In addition to the usual graffiti found in such places, there's an atypical example of that urban art form. The single word BLASFEEMER [sic] in black spray paint on the door.

Posted: **Thu Apr 18, 2019 3:40 am**

Liz takes a pin out of her hair. "I've never done this before, so I only know how in theory," she says. She fiddles around in the padlock with the pin.

Posted: **Thu Apr 18, 2019 8:56 am**

Tony inspects the graffiti.

"Somebody obviously has strong feelings about this place - if not the grammatical skills to express them..."

Posted: **Fri Apr 19, 2019 3:25 am**

Most likely due to the way it's been worn down by time, the padlock opens. It's a simple matter to pull open the door, which emits a loud creak as it moves. Due to the window being painted black, it's not so easy to see what's inside. The light coming in through the door reveals a mess of scattered and torn papers near the opening. There are also cigarette butts, some obviously hand-rolled, and the melted remains of candles. What lies beyond this remains in darkness, from which can be heard a sort of chittering noise.

Posted: **Fri Apr 19, 2019 5:15 am**

"Could be rats," says Liz. She replaces the pin in her hair, takes out the electric torch she had had from their trip into the sewers, and shines a light inside, keeping her distance from the door.

Posted: **Fri Apr 19, 2019 7:20 am**

"Ew," Zara responds. Nevertheless, she casts her eye around the interior revealed by Liz's flashlight.

Posted: **Fri Apr 19, 2019 9:09 am**

Carson examines the scattered papers near the opening.

Posted: **Fri Apr 19, 2019 10:13 am**

"Quite the fixer-upper, what?"

Tony shines his torch around the room, particularly in the direction of the chittering sound.

Posted: **Sat Apr 20, 2019 3:14 am**

The twin lights reveal that the place is indeed infested with rats and other vermin. Towards the back of the room is a jumble of broken pieces of wood, as well as a table leaning at an acute angle, due to two of its legs shattered into pieces. Next to the table is what appears to be a fairly large clay pot, lying on the floor on its side, still in one piece. All over the place are small piles of ashes and a large number of burnt matches.

Posted: **Sat Apr 20, 2019 3:16 am**

Rooter wrote:
Carson examines the scattered papers near the opening.

Spoiler:

The clever government agent is able to quickly pick out several pieces of torn paper that can be put together to form a hand-drawn map. It starts with a dot designated as Barstow, then follows a dotted line to the left marked "about a mile," then continues upward with another dotted line marked "couple of miles," then ends with a large X.

Posted: **Sat Apr 20, 2019 4:21 am**

Liz shines her light into the clay pot to see if there's anything inside.

Posted: **Sat Apr 20, 2019 7:51 pm**

Meanwhile, Tony pokes around the table with his stick.

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 12:41 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz shines her light into the clay pot to see if there's anything inside.

The vessel is full of a substance resembling pale gray sand. Closer examination reveals nothing else.

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 12:42 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Meanwhile, Tony pokes around the table with his stick.

Spoiler:

Skillful use of the stick avoids doing any further damage to the wobbly table, such as having it collapse to the floor, but elicits no further information.

The approach of the investigators causes a number of large rats to scurry about along the walls in an agitated state, their eyes gleaming in the light from the torches. At times they turn to face the intruders, chittering in an angry manner, but do not approach.

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 1:50 am**

"Possibly ash," says Liz, collecting a sample for later analysis. "I think we've found everything there is to find here."

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 2:00 am**

"Is that some kind of ash?" Zara asks of the grey powder. She looks alarmed when the rats display their odd behaviour.

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 7:13 am**

Lew watches from the door. "Anyone find anything of interest?"

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 7:34 am**

"Some papers and a container of ash. Oh, and some rather annoyed rats. I wonder if it's wise to venture in further without antagonising them?"

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 9:37 am**

"This must be the location of the hippie commune," Carson says, showing the map to the others. "At least now we know where we're going. Let's get outta here."

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 2:06 pm**

Zara's certainly happy enough to do that.

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 8:02 pm**

Tony is also happy to leave, with maybe a sweep of the walls with his torch first, just in case there's anything of interest.

"I wonder if there's a yard out back?"

Posted: **Sun Apr 21, 2019 9:36 pm**

"Yes, let's get out of here," says Liz. "We can check round back once we're outside."

Posted: **Mon Apr 22, 2019 12:18 am**

A quick search of the surrounding area reveals, behind the building, the normal sort of trash-strew alley common in this part of the city. There are a number of feral cats about, digging through garbage cans and hissing at each other, probably drawn to the area by the availability of rats.

Posted: **Mon Apr 22, 2019 1:08 am**

"The cats should have better hunting now we've opened the door for them," says Liz. "I think we're done here. Shall we follow the map?"

Posted: **Mon Apr 22, 2019 9:42 am**

"Indeed. Let us away."

Posted: **Tue Apr 23, 2019 3:15 am**

No doubt it will occur to the investigators that some sort of special vehicle, perhaps more than one, will be needed to navigate the desert, as it seems likely that, once leaving Barstow, the roads to their destination will rough, or possibly nonexistent. There is also the question of surviving the desert heat, even in late October. (Highs in the eighties [Fahrenheit], chance of precipitation near zero, high winds possible.)

The drive from Venice to Barstow itself, a distance close to 150 miles, will take a few hours, depending on the number of stops made for gasoline and supplies. (The biggest town along Route 66 after leaving Los Angeles is San Bernadino.)

Posted: **Tue Apr 23, 2019 4:25 am**

"We'll need to prepare before we go out there," says Liz. "It's a desert, and it's going to be bloody hot. We'll need to dress appropriately, and we'll need to bring canteens filled with water. We might be able to rent dune buggies or the like in Barstow to get us there."

Posted: **Tue Apr 23, 2019 9:11 am**

"Indeed, there is much preparation to be done. I'm sure I can have some things purchased and no doubt Agent Carson can pull a few strings."

"I would also like to do a little detective work first: see if there are any newspaper articles or police reports about this group. Forewarned is forearmed and all that."

Posted: **Tue Apr 23, 2019 8:58 pm**

"I am certainly not equipped for an outdoor adventure. Shall we meet at the Sospiri for breakfast tomorrow before we are off?"

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 3:16 am**

The ever-helpful Big Kahuna can rent the investigators a couple of dune buggies, as long as they're willing to pay through the nose and leave a big deposit. With some crowding, they can all fit into the vehicles, although anything very bulky will probably have to left behind at a Barstow motel after they leave paved roads.

"Try to bring those things back in one piece, OK?"

Asking around, and digging through the morgue at the offices of the Venice Vanguard newspaper, a small weekly, yields a little information about the group. The articles are mostly of the local color type, briefly describing a tiny group of fire worshipers moving into an abandoned building. Despite a few encounters with the fire marshal, they kept to themselves and didn't cause any trouble. They left town when unidentified individuals, apparently objecting to their religious activities, entered the place during one of their ceremonies and trashed the joint. Police failed to track down the vandals.

All of this information is shared among the investigators as they enjoy such things as (frozen) orange juice and (dehydrated) scrambled eggs at Sospiri.

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 4:10 am**

"Asbestos-lined clothing would make us awfully hot," says Liz, who gladly put down the large deposit for the dune buggies, "but it could save our lives if that chap starts flinging fire at us. We could always put it on when we get there so that we don't overheat on the way. Weapons might be useful too, if we can get some."

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 8:49 am**

Tony, now attired in the latest in safari suits (pale blue), pokes the scrambled egg with his fork.

"I've left instructions with my man to locate some fireproof clothing and deliver them here. I've no doubt he will rise to occasion admirably. I agree that it's be hard going in the desert wearing such things, but having them to hand will be most useful."

He takes a mouthful of egg, swallowing doubtfully.

"I abhor firearms - too many unsightly bulges," he says through a grimace, "but be all means 'tool-up' as they say in the East End. I've also taken the liberty of ordering a number of portable fire extinguishers."

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 10:40 am**

Thus prepared, the investigators are nearly ready to set out, some in the dune buggies, some in other vehicles they have available, in order to carry all this equipment.

"Gotta know who's drivin' these babies," the Big Kahuna remarks as he hands over the keys. "Insurance and stuff, you know."

After an uneventful drive through the desert, the convoy arrives at Barstow, a modest town with the facilities one expects. A simple but clean motel provides accommodations for all. The question remains: How to determine where to turn off, as the map, hardly drawn in detail, indicated? There are any number of paths, many hardly visible, leading off into the wilderness, where hikers, horseback riders, and dune buggy enthusiasts have made their way.

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 1:44 pm**

Tony will engage the more conservative-looking locals in conversation, asking where the 'hippies and weirdos' all went to. He will explain vaguely how he and his friends are from 'the authorities' and have heeded said local's calls to 'do something about it'.

Posted: **Wed Apr 24, 2019 2:52 pm**

Meanwhile, Zara will cast her artist's eye over the map and the local landmarks to see which trails seem more likely. (She'll also see which of one seem more well trafficked).

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 5:37 am**

Liz, now wearing a very short pair of khaki shorts and a white tank top, tries to talk to some of the locals as well, knowing that her charm is her greatest strength.

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 8:18 pm**

Lew is dressed casually for the heat. Since he is a good talker, he will also try to glean information from the locals about how exactly they can locate this cult in the middle of the wilderness. Even though he is a bad liar, he will attempt to convince them that he is looking for his son who has run off and joined the cult.

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 10:36 pm**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony will engage the more conservative-looking locals in conversation, asking where the 'hippies and weirdos' all went to. He will explain vaguely how he and his friends are from 'the authorities' and have heeded said local's calls to 'do something about it'.

Spoiler:

Clearly impressed by his dress and manners, a group of retired men at a local diner tell Tony what they know.

"'Bout time the gummint did sumthin' about them creeps. Tried to start one of their so-called 'temples' 'til the sheriff run 'em off. Heard tell they high-tailed it up to old Loco Bill's hideout."

Upon further questioning, the location to Loco Bill's hideout -- actually a small but comfortable home built by an eccentric fellow who made his fortune in the borax business many years ago, abandoned upon his demise -- is described.

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 10:51 pm**

SunlessNick wrote:
Meanwhile, Zara will cast her artist's eye over the map and the local landmarks to see which trails seem more likely. (She'll also see which of one seem more well trafficked).

Spoiler:

Zara's sure eye for detail reveals a vague trail that seems to fit exactly both the story of Loco Bill's hideout and what little can be told from the map; in addition, she is able to tell that it does not get very much traffic at all, but has seen use by a four-wheeled vehicle a day or two ago.

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 11:06 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz, now wearing a very short pair of khaki shorts and a white tank top, tries to talk to some of the locals as well, knowing that her charm is her greatest strength.

Spoiler:

A group of young men hanging around a gas station whistle and shout as Liz walks by.

"Hey there, li'l darlin'," one remarks. "How's about you and me headin' out to the hoedown tonight? Gonna be a fine time. Plenty of Miller High Life and foot-stompin' for sure. You like Buck Owens? He's a pal o' mine."

"Hell, Earl," another remarks, "you're so full of it you could open up a fertilizer factory. Don't pay him no mind, sweetheart. Lady like you needs a real gentleman like me to escort her around."

Somehow, between all this flirting and competing for her attention, Liz is able to elicit the information that, once you've gone exactly 1.2 miles down the trail to Loco Bill's hideout, you need to turn right at "a big ol' cactus that looks like a scarecrow" to get to the place.

Posted: **Thu Apr 25, 2019 11:10 pm**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew is dressed casually for the heat. Since he is a good talker, he will also try to glean information from the locals about how exactly they can locate this cult in the middle of the wilderness. Even though he is a bad liar, he will attempt to convince them that he is looking for his son who has run off and joined the cult.

Spoiler:

Most of the people in this rather conservative town refuse to listen to Lew's story, figuring it's some kind of con game. However, there's an old desert rat, in town to pick up some supplies, who has been living like a hermit, just him and his mule Sally, in a shack out near a played-out gold mine that provides him with just barely enough income to survive, who is willing to talk.

"I seen this here young fella, him and some other men and a buncha gals, up at Loco Bill's place. Dagnabit, I sure miss old Bill. Only fella worth a plugged buffalo nickel 'round these parts. Anyhoo, they raise a big old hullabaloo just about every night 'round midnight, with a buncha bonfires and all. Wouldn't have nothin' to do with 'em myself. Hope you find your youngun."

Posted: **Fri Apr 26, 2019 5:13 am**

"Thank you," Liz says to the young men. "I have a prior engagement today, but perhaps another time." She returns to her friends and compares notes with them. "I think we have enough information to find the place now."

Posted: **Fri Apr 26, 2019 9:05 am**

Carson nods. "Good work. I'd like to stake the place out at midnight and see what they're getting up to."

Posted: **Fri Apr 26, 2019 9:15 am**

"Capital idea old chap - I don't suppose there's much cover around there during the day. We could drive so far in the dune buggies and then sneak up the rest of the way."

Posted: **Sat Apr 27, 2019 4:28 am**

"Yes, that's the best plan," says Liz. "We may also want to dress like they do, so that we might be able to infiltrate."

Posted: **Sun Apr 28, 2019 12:19 am**

"Then let's find a cool place to have a pint. Lew says. "We have a bit of time before we need to leave."

Posted: **Sun Apr 28, 2019 8:34 pm**

Tony looks aghast at Liz's suggestion.

"You mean feathers, beads and..." he shudders "...tie-dye? If that's the case, then I'll ceratinly join you for a beer Lew!"

Posted: **Sun Apr 28, 2019 9:09 pm**

"I know, Tony," says Liz. "It goes against every bit of fashion sense I have, but we all have to make sacrifices. I'll join you in that pint too."

Posted: **Thu May 02, 2019 10:08 am**

The bartender at the nearest drinking establishment, a place called the Last Roundup, is briefly confused by the requests for pints, but finally figures out that the new arrivals are asking for beers. The selection is limited to common American brands, served ice-cold, in cans or bottles. The place is only half-full, with a jukebox playing country-western music quietly in the corner. The drinkers are mostly older men, with a few younger couples here and there.

It occurs to the investigators that this is the kind of town where the type of clothing they wish to obtain might be difficult to locate, blue jeans, work shirts, and cowboy hats being more common.

Posted: **Thu May 02, 2019 2:06 pm**

Zara picks out the least conservative looking young couple, and approaches them. "Sorry to barge - is there anywhere in town I could get some cool duds for my guy? It's his birthday, and I want to surprise him when I get home."

Posted: **Thu May 02, 2019 2:26 pm**

Tony is somewhat relieved at the lack of 'hippie' clothes outlets (though he feels keenly the lack of any establishments that might sell a good claret) and secretly hopes that Zara's quest proves fruitless. He leans over to Liz.

"There might be an alternative y'know. Perhaps we could pose as British journalists, here to report on the new scene? A chap able to conjure up fireballs is sure to interest the press sooner or later. Our chums could be local 'fixers' or somesuch."

Posted: **Fri May 03, 2019 3:39 am**

"I like that plan," says Liz with a smile.

Posted: **Fri May 03, 2019 6:13 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Zara picks out the least conservative looking young couple, and approaches them. "Sorry to barge - is there anywhere in town I could get some cool duds for my guy? It's his birthday, and I want to surprise him when I get home."

Zara finds a couple of teenagers sipping Cokes. (They probably aren't even supposed to be in here, but as long as they don't drink alcohol the barkeep looks the other way.) They're dressed in a more mod way than most folks, and the boy's hair is a little longer than usual.

"Not much luck in this hick town," the boy says. "Soon as I graduate I'm splitting for LA."

"There's the Mad Hatter Boutique," the girl adds. "They've got some cool stuff, if you look hard enough." She supplies directions to the place, which isn't far away.

Posted: **Fri May 03, 2019 9:20 am**

Tony grins at Liz.

"Capital! A two-pronged assault then? Zara can pose as a new convert whilst we can pose as journalists; though it might seem suspicious if we all turn up at once. Perhaps we're telling Zara's story: 'from girl-next-door to flower child of fire!' You know, I've always suspected I might have a literary bent."

Posted: **Sat May 04, 2019 3:11 am**

Zara thanks the girl, buys a gin, and heads over to the others. "Sounds good to me," Zara says. "But if I'm walking into another lion's den, I'm definitely getting some other clothes. I like this dress too much to risk it."

Posted: **Sat May 04, 2019 5:22 am**

The Mad Hatter Boutique is easy to locate, given the gigantic, hand-lettered sign on the display window which reads GOING OUT OF BUZZINESS [sic] SAIL [sic]. EVERTHING [sic] HALF OFF!

The proprietor of the place is a woman of middle years, wearing thick glasses and dressed in a plain, conservative blouse and skirt. Most of the clothing here is of the same kind. However, as the girl indicated, things that might be found in one of the trendier spots on Carnaby Street are also available, in the back of the store, their prices drastically marked down. Evidently this was an experiment that did not go over well.

"Afternoon, folks," the woman says. "May I help you?"

Posted: **Sat May 04, 2019 5:43 am**

"Some of these outfits are rather mod," comments Liz, checking out the clothing in the back. "We could pick up some real bargains here."

Posted: **Sat May 04, 2019 10:57 am**

Tony supresses a shudder as he enters the 'boutique', however he too soon recognises that there may be some sartorial gems to be found.

Rooting around the store, he searches for something, a neckerchief or cravat perhaps, that compliments his outfit and marks him out as a man of style, yet sympathetic to the Children of the Revolution. All the better if said accessory bears a flame motif.

Posted: **Sat May 04, 2019 4:00 pm**

Liz flips through the racks, looking for a miniskirt and a sleeveless blouse that would go together.

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 1:03 am**

The desired items are found and purchased. Obviously happy to make a sale, the proprietress remarks, "You folks goin' to a costume party?"

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 2:00 am**

"Something like that," says Liz.

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 9:13 am**

Carson opts for the blue jeans, work shirt and cowboy hat of a local.

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 4:11 pm**

Zara picks out something similar to the faux-Indian look the fire-thrower was sporting.

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 7:40 pm**

Tony pays for an orange-red cravat with a suitable flame-motif, pleased at how it sets off his pale blue safari suit.

He waits for the others to make their purchases.

"So what's the plan? Sneak up to the place at night, with cover stories at the ready?"

Posted: **Sun May 05, 2019 10:42 pm**

"If we are playing a new convert and journalists, would we be sneaking?" Zara asks.

Posted: **Mon May 06, 2019 12:42 am**

The question is a good one. Besides the time of day to set forth on this venture, it also remains to be decided who will drive each one of the dune buggies into the desert via the barely visible trail, and who will ride in each one as passengers.

Posted: **Mon May 06, 2019 3:32 am**

"Right," says Liz, who has selected a black miniskirt and a sleeveless blouse that matches the color of her hair, which also resembles flames. "The three of us should go there in the daytime in one of the dune buggies. The others can use the other dune buggy. They might prefer a stealthy approach."

Posted: **Mon May 06, 2019 4:30 am**

Lew will buy some jeans and a work shirt so he doesn't stick out too badly.
"I'm not one for undercover work." He says. "Actually I'm not much for stealth either. I usually just take a direct approach in my investigations. But I'll let you go in and will drive up in the other dune buggy and we'll see what happens."

Posted: **Mon May 06, 2019 1:20 pm**

"Okay, let's make sure the script is watertight." Tony chuckles.

"So Liz and I are journalists, doing a story on Zara, who wants to join this mysterious cult. Meanwhile Lew and Agent Carson are following up later to do some sneaking around. Have I got this right?"

"I presume they'll want Zara to stay - maybe Liz and I too, so we might not have chance to meet up later."

"As for the dune buggies - I've done a little off-road driving during my army days, plus the occasional jaunt around my estate in the old Land Rover, so unless anyone else wants to take the wheel, I can drive one."

Posted: **Tue May 07, 2019 2:54 am**

"That suits me fine," says Liz. "I'm more comfortable behind the wheel of an actual car myself."

Posted: **Tue May 07, 2019 3:01 am**

The first party of three heads out into the desert. It's a bumpy ride over the sand, with frequent dodging of rocks and other obstacles.

Spoiler:

Out of nowhere, a large jackrabbit runs across their path. Startled for a moment, Tony steers sharply out of the way, directly into the scarecrow-shaped cactus that marks the turning point. Everyone aboard is shook up a little, but not hurt. The dune buggy has a small dent, and protests a bit when restarted, but still runs. The cactus is now lying on the ground, its limbs broken off. A group of buildings is visible dead ahead.

Upon arrival at Loco Bill's home, recognizable from the description provided, the investigators find what appears more like a small farm community than a religious center. A few simple buildings have been constructed around the old adobe building. There's a generator visible, a large tank of water that proves to be supplied from a well by an electric pump, a field of crops irrigated by pipes from the tank, and so forth. A large pile of wood, arranged as if ready to be set afire, stands off to one side. Some young men and women are at work here and there, tending to chickens, caring for the crops, repairing a wire fence that surrounds the entire property, and so forth.

Most of the people look up as the dune buggy approaches. One of the older men nears the fence and calls out to the new arrivals. He was cleaning a shotgun as the investigators approached, and holds it dangling open, obviously not ready for use, in one hand as he speaks.

"Yeah?"

Posted: **Tue May 07, 2019 3:50 am**

Zara gets out of the dune buggy and walks toward the man, trying to give the impression that she's restraining herself from running. "Is he here? Please tell me this the right place!" she says breathlessly.

OOC: (She's left her real clothes in the boot of Liz's or Tony's car, whichever we came in)

Posted: **Tue May 07, 2019 5:11 am**

Liz swings her long legs out of the dune buggy and stands up on them. "Well, there goes our security deposit," she says.

Posted: **Tue May 07, 2019 9:52 am**

"The amount of money we've spent at that place, I'm sure the Big Kahuna won't mind." Tony whispers aside to Liz, before approaching the guy, flipping open a notepad as he does so.

"Hello. Tony Patchpole of the Manchester Evening News. We should be expected, though the expression on your face suggests you haven't had the memo."

He turns to Liz.

"What was the name of our contact? Sunshimmer? Summershine? Shishkebab? I told you she wouldn't be reliable."

He rolls his eyes at the guy.

"Youth of today eh? What you should have been told is that we're doing a piece on this young lady here." He nods at Zara. "Following her footsteps as she goes from suburbia to star-shine, education to enlightenment, drudgery to destiny!" He grins. "Well, you get the general idea. It was supposed to be all arranged, um, Mister...?"

Posted: **Wed May 08, 2019 3:32 am**

"Ash. Just Ash. No titles here, except for the Master. The Master didn't say anything about this." He studies the new arrivals while taking ammunition out of the pockets of his jeans and loading the shotgun, careful to keep it pointed at the ground.

"About to go hunting, if anybody wants to come along." He turns to a young man wearing glasses and a belt full of tools who is working on the wire fence. "Got that thing working yet, Spark?"

"Just about."

"Good. Switch it back on after these folks come in."

Turning back to the visitors, he continues.

"We don't want any trouble, so we take the necessary precautions. Don't mess with that fence.

"The Master is still recuperating after his last public demonstration. Can't be disturbed. You're welcome to look around, talk to folks. We've got nothing to hide."

He introduces a couple of people who are looking on with obvious curiosity; a girl not yet in her teens called Ember and a dark-skinned, muscular woman named Flame.

"There are empty cots in the women's and men's dormitories," he says, pointing out the buildings. "Cold water, stuff to eat. You might want to rest up for the bonfire tonight. The Master is certain to show up for that.

"The Master will want to talk to a prospective member," he goes on, nodding to Zara, "but that's going to have to wait until tomorrow. How much do you know about the Children of Light, anyway?"

Posted: **Wed May 08, 2019 3:53 am**

"Cheers," says Liz. "I'm Liz, by the way. I don't know much about the Children of Light, though I did hear of that demonstration. I'd be chuffed to learn more about you lot."

Posted: **Wed May 08, 2019 9:09 am**

While Liz introduces herself, Tony watches Spark wire up the electric fence. As a 'journalist', he scribbles in his notepad, making a note of how the thing is wired (to the best of his non-technical ability at least.)

He also makes a mental note to get hold of some wire cutters and insulating tape if at all possible.

When Ember and Flame are introduced, he smiles his best smile.

"Charmed I'm most definitely sure. Rest assured you'll get no trouble from us - we're only here to write a story and only ask to be allowed to observe and make notes. Thank you for having us."

He focuses his attention on Flame (Ember being much too young) - will his suave English charm win her over?

"Flame eh? Fiery by name and by nature I'll wager..."

Posted: **Wed May 08, 2019 9:39 pm**

"I suggest that we go before sunset just so we can make sure to follow the tracks. However, since I am not particularly stealthy, I don't want to be sneaking around during the day. Lew says to Carson. "We'll need to get flashlights too."

Posted: **Thu May 09, 2019 5:06 am**

"I saw the demonstration in town," Zara says in response to Ash's question. "It was amazing. I just... have to be part of it."

Posted: **Thu May 16, 2019 5:24 am**

jp1885 wrote:
While Liz introduces herself, Tony watches Spark wire up the electric fence. As a 'journalist', he scribbles in his notepad, making a note of how the thing is wired (to the best of his non-technical ability at least.)

Spoiler:

Luckily, the system used to electrify the fence is one which Tony -- no technical whiz -- has seen before, and is simple enough to be quite understandable.

He also makes a mental note to get hold of some wire cutters and insulating tape if at all possible.

These are not immediately obvious, given the relatively low level of technology displayed about the place. Spark appears to be the only one with the appropriate kind of knowledge about such things.

When Ember and Flame are introduced, he smiles his best smile.

"Charmed I'm most definitely sure. Rest assured you'll get no trouble from us - we're only here to write a story and only ask to be allowed to observe and make notes. Thank you for having us."

He focuses his attention on Flame (Ember being much too young) - will his suave English charm win her over?

"Flame eh? Fiery by name and by nature I'll wager..."

Charisma 13 +1 seduction,[dice]221356:0[/dice]A fail, unless I can add +3 for well-spoken?

Spoiler:

The woman shows no signs of romantic attraction to Tony, and reacts to his apparent pickup line with a snort, but is willing to talk to him.

Posted: **Thu May 16, 2019 5:35 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: "I suggest that we go before sunset just so we can make sure to follow the tracks. However, since I am not particularly stealthy, I don't want to be sneaking around during the day. Lew says to Carson. "We'll need to get flashlights too."

Spoiler:

The tricky shadows cast by the setting sun make a large rock seem like a dark spot just before the dune buggy runs into it, taking a fair amount of damage. It still runs well enough to reach the commune -- if the adventurous pair can find it -- but will need some repair to make its way back to civilization.

Spoiler:

Unfortunately, the fact that the previous dune buggy knocked over the cactus shaped like a scarecrow makes the turn-off spot very difficult to find, so the two spend quite a bit of time driving around until long after sunset. They finally find the place, but well after dark. In the moonlight can be seen several figures gathering bits of wood and piling them up. By this time, the other investigators have looked around, talked, napped, and shared a simple meal of vegetables and a stew of freshly killed rabbit, from which an occasional bit of buckshot must be taken. As the new arrivals approach the wire fence, a low hum warns them that it is electrified. It is not long before midnight.

Posted: **Thu May 16, 2019 10:07 am**

Tony shrugs off his failure to seduce Flame - he's had worse rebuffs! Over their meal of rabbit stew he continues to question the two girls.

"So how did you get here? Would you mind telling me your stories? This is delicious by the way - my compliments to the chef."

Posted: **Thu May 16, 2019 3:15 pm**

Over the dinner, Zara continues to gush about the demonstration, hoping that it will induce some of the cult members to brag a bit.

Posted: **Thu May 16, 2019 6:19 pm**

"Well that was perfectly awful." Lew says.

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 2:19 am**

"How does it work?" asks Liz. "Has he always had the power within him, or was it something he gained somehow?"

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 3:24 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: "Well that was perfectly awful." Lew says.
OOC,Do we see the others inside the compound?

From outside the wire fence the pair of investigators can hear conversation coming from what must be the communal dining hall, including the familiar voices of their compatriots.

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 3:31 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony shrugs off his failure to seduce Flame - he's had worse rebuffs! Over their meal of rabbit stew he continues to question the two girls.

"So how did you get here? Would you mind telling me your stories? This is delicious by the way - my compliments to the chef."

"That would be Kindling," Flame remarks. "He used to be a short order cook at a greasy spoon out on the Highway. After dinner we all help him clean up. I'm sure he'd appreciate it if you'd lend a hand."

Further conversation with Flame and others reveals that the members of the commune were all involved in liberal-to-leftist political demonstrations of some sort, ranging from nonviolent to not-so-nonviolent. Flame herself, it appears, used to be a member of the Black Panthers. It seems they all decided that the Master's arcane skills indicated a special spiritual connection, and a better way to change the world.

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 3:42 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Over the dinner, Zara continues to gush about the demonstration, hoping that it will induce some of the cult members to brag a bit.

"Wait until you see what the Master's got cooking for next week," Spark says. "It'll make the Weathermen look like Boy Scouts." Other members of the group quickly quiet him before he can reveal more.

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 3:49 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"How does it work?" asks Liz. "Has he always had the power within him, or was it something he gained somehow?"

"It was a gift from Light," a young man remarks. "He's been trying to teach some of us, but I guess you have to receive the gift first." He turns to the young girl Ember. "Show them what you can do."

The child closes her eyes tightly and wrinkles her brow in concentration. She breathes rapidly, and sweat appears on her face. After a few minutes, a tiny puff of smoke appears in the air before her, then quickly dissipates. She sighs and nods her head, clearly exhausted.

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 4:37 am**

"That's a good start, Ember," says Liz in a reassuring tone. "Much better than I could ever do." With all the time she has spent investigating paranormal abilities, she has never had any of her own. While in some ways she would like them, she also realizes intellectually that she's better off without them, as they're often more curse than gift. "Who is Light?"

Posted: **Fri May 17, 2019 8:55 am**

Tony scribbles down plenty of notes as the others tell their stories. He pretends not to hear Sparks' conversation with Zara, but again makes a note of it to follow up at an appropriate time.

While intrigued and a little alarmed by Ember's demonstration, he opts to play the cynical journalist as a ploy to get them talking more about this 'gift'.

"So how's it done? A special powder? A tinderbox hidden up the sleeve? You'll forgive my scepticism - comes with the job I'm afraid."

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 2:49 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"That's a good start, Ember," says Liz in a reassuring tone. "Much better than I could ever do." With all the time she has spent investigating paranormal abilities, she has never had any of her own. While in some ways she would like them, she also realizes intellectually that she's better off without them, as they're often more curse than gift. "Who is Light?"

All the members of the group bow their heads solemnly.

"Light is All," they chant in unison. "All is Light. Praise to Light, and honor to Light's prophet."

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 3:11 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony scribbles down plenty of notes as the others tell their stories. He pretends not to hear Sparks' conversation with Zara, but again makes a note of it to follow up at an appropriate time.

While intrigued and a little alarmed by Ember's demonstration, he opts to play the cynical journalist as a ploy to get them talking more about this 'gift'.

"So how's it done? A special powder? A tinderbox hidden up the sleeve? You'll forgive my scepticism - comes with the job I'm afraid."

One of the older men -- a relative term, since none seem to be much more than in their late twenties -- who seems to be called Flint, answers.

"You cannot help being filled with Darkness, so we will disregard your lack of faith. Ahriman is powerful."

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 3:13 am**

"How do you receive the gift?" asks Liz, making a mental note to talk to Spark alone later and find out what the Master has planned for next week, without the others around to keep him from talking.

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 3:41 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"How do you receive the gift?" asks Liz, making a mental note to talk to Spark alone later and find out what the Master has planned for next week, without the others around to keep him from talking.

"Only the will of Ahura Mazda determines who will receive such a gift," Flint replies. By this time it seems as if he is one of the most pious of the group. "No human effort can attain it, when it is not bestowed by Light."

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 4:24 am**

"Ahura Mazda," Zara repeats slowly. "Is he like a god?" (Internally, she wonders about revealing her own gift, in the hopes of ingratiating herself, but decides to wait until she has a better idea of how they would take it).

Posted: **Sat May 18, 2019 9:35 am**

Tony knows he can only push the incredulous journalist act so far in the face of such fanaticism. He notes the names 'Ahriman' and 'Ahura Mazda' for future investigation. He also makes a mental note to be wary of Flint.

He listens intently as the others discuss this so-called god.

"Ahriman, Ahura Mazda, Light - are they one and the same?"

Posted: **Sun May 19, 2019 1:47 am**

In response to these inquiries, the assembled members of the group display a mixture of disapproval and amusement, in much the way one might respond to the questions of an ignorant child.

Flame, in a somewhat sarcastic manner, offers a deliberately simple explanation.

"Maybe you better study up on Zoroaster, the first Master. Here's the kindergarten version, dig? Ahura Mazda, the Lord of Light. Ahriman, the Lord of Darkness. You know, Good Guy and Bad Guy, like in the cowboy movies?"

Murmurings among some of the others indicate that not all of them approve of her jesting manner.

"Anyway, it's time for the ceremony."

All assembled head outside, where others have been preparing a large pile of wood. They stand around it silently. A little while later, the so-called Master makes his first appearance from his private quarters, accompanied by two young women. They seem to help him make his way slowly forward. As the others cry out a wordless greeting, he raises one hand. Meanwhile, Spark can be seen operating a battery-powered portable phonograph nearby. A small fireball, perhaps the size of a ping pong ball, seems to emerge from the Master's hand and flies towards the wood, to the excited shouts of the crowd. At the same time, Spark places the phonograph needle on the record.

I have only one burnin' desire
Let me stand next to your fire!

As the music continues, at a louder volume than one might expect from a portable phonograph, the fireball hits the bonfire and sets it ablaze, its flames reaching high into the night. Frenzied dancing, of the kind one might witness at a San Francisco psychedelic light show and concert, breaks out among the crowd, continuing as the bonfire lights up the area, casting giant shadows on the buildings. Meanwhile, the Master, head bowed low, is led away, back into his chambers.

Posted: **Sun May 19, 2019 2:55 am**

"This is fascinating," says Liz to Tony and Zara. "I didn't know there were that many followers of Zoroastrianism still around. It was widespread in ancient times, but it was supplanted by monotheistic religions. It's not monotheistic itself, but dualistic. In Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda and Ahriman are equal in power, whereas in Judeo-Christian religions with which we're more familiar, God is all-powerful, and the devil is a created being who has only what power God allows him. The powers of these people seem to exhaust them the more they are used."

Posted: **Sun May 19, 2019 5:25 am**

"Then Ahura Mazda is helping new people fight back against Ahriman?" Zara asks, phrasing it that way for the benfit of any cultists who might overhear. She looks around, wondering if there's anything to drink.

Posted: **Sun May 19, 2019 7:01 am**

Lew takes a position where he can observe the bonfire from the darkness. It doesn't appear that anyone is in trouble and so he opts to hang back for the time being.

Posted: **Sun May 19, 2019 9:40 am**

World religions are not exactly Tony's forte, but he makes notes as best he can. At least the delectable Dr. North knows what this gobbledigook is all about!

When the 'Master' appears and performs his trick, the detective looks on intently, trying to ascertain how the flame is produced and projected.

"My goodness, how groovy..." He mutters.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 1:01 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"Then Ahura Mazda is helping new people fight back against Ahriman?" Zara asks, phrasing it that way for the benfit of any cultists who might overhear. She looks around, wondering if there's anything to drink.

The assembled cult members are too much engaged in their frenzied dancing to pay any attention to what the visitors are saying. There are some bottles of cheap wine scattered here and there, as well as several containers of water, from which one of the dancers occasionally relieves the dehydration caused by such extreme exertion.

This continues for some hours, until the fire burns itself out and the cultists, obviously in a state of exhaustion, return to their quarters.

The next day, Zara is informed that the Master is ready to perform the initiation ceremony. She will be escorted to his chambers by two women once she is ready.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 1:02 am**

jp1885 wrote:
World religions are not exactly Tony's forte, but he makes notes as best he can. At least the delectable Dr. North knows what this gobbledigook is all about!

When the 'Master' appears and performs his trick, the detective looks on intently, trying to ascertain how the flame is produced and projected.

"My goodness, how groovy..." He mutters.

Spoiler:

Squinting very closely, Tony is unable to detect any form of equipment upon the person of the so-called Master; the fireball simply seems to appear from nowhere, like the trick of a skilled conjurer.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 1:05 am**

Starspawn338 wrote:
Lew takes a position where he can observe the bonfire from the darkness. It doesn't appear that anyone is in trouble and so he opts to hang back for the time being.

Spoiler:

Despite the difficulty of seeing things, given the constant movement of light and shadow, Lew is able to deduce that the bonfire burns out much more quickly, given its size, than one might expect; a matter of a few hours instead of all night and well into the day.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 2:33 am**

"May we observe the initiation?" asks Liz. She wants to be there to protect Zara in case anything goes wrong, and she'd also like to see it.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 6:15 am**

"What preparations must I make?" Zara asks.

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 9:16 am**

While the exhausted cultists are asleep, Tony will attempt to wander around the compound, looking for ways in and out and how they are guarded. If challenged, he will maintain that he is trying to get a sense of the 'atmosphere' of the desert night, so that he might add some mood to his article.

After a reasonable sleep, he washes and dresses as fastidiously as the circumstances allow before partaking in breakfast. Upon hearing of Zara's plan, he frowns, catching her arm before she speaks to their hosts.

"You be careful hm? If this cat really does shoot fire from his hands, there's no knowing whatever freaky stuff he can do. Do you still have my penknife?"

When Liz makes her request, he readily concurs.

"Oh yes, if we may. It'd be quite a scoop!"

Posted: **Mon May 20, 2019 4:17 pm**

jp1885 wrote:"You be careful hm? If this cat really does shoot fire from his hands, there's no knowing whatever freaky stuff he can do. Do you still have my penknife?"

"I'm sorry, I lost it in his lair. I'll be careful."

Posted: **Tue May 21, 2019 2:49 am**

"I've got a pocket knife, if you want to borrow it," Liz tells Zara quietly.

Posted: **Tue May 21, 2019 2:59 am**

The two women -- their names seem to be Blaze and Flare, and they are alike enough to be sisters, both of them dark in coloring, with long black hair worn loose -- who seem to spend almost all their time attending to the Master and his needs explain that there is little preparation required.

"I suggest that you meditate for a while, so that Light may reveal your new identity," one says.

"And do not be frightened by anything that happens. Faith must overcome fear."

They also explain that a small number of witnesses may be present, but there must not be any cameras.

Tony's investigations reveal that there is only one entrance in and out of the compound, a large gate which is opened once the electricity to the fence is turned off, to allow people and supplies to make their entrance and exit. He also discovers a piece of paper stuck to the fence. Retrieving it carefully, to avoid touching the fence, he is able to read, in the bright desert moonlight, its handwritten message.

BLASFEEMERS YUR DOOM IS NEER

Posted: **Tue May 21, 2019 4:18 am**

"It would be cool if they could see," Zara says to Blaze and Flare. "They're telling the story of me finding you." Drawing tends to leave Zara either centred or nervous, depending on whether her gift makes its presence felt - but the nature of this group already leaves her nervous, so she might as well try to calm herself. If the women ask what she's doing, she will call it her meditation - she will try to slip the result to Liz in exchange for the penknife.

Posted: **Tue May 21, 2019 11:06 am**

Outside the fence, Carson busies himself with his recording devices.

Posted: **Tue May 21, 2019 1:24 pm**

With the message carefully folded up and pocketed, Tony will idly enquire if the cult has had an trouble from outsiders or received any threatening messages.

He'll also readily volunteer to be a witness to the ceremony, if only to keep an eye on Zara.

In preparation to this, he will join in the meditation (or at least attempt to - not really his cup of tea, but when in Rome...). Who knows, maybe he'll receive some startling revelation (or maybe he'll start nodding off)?

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 2:46 am**

Before the initiation, Liz seeks out Spark and sees if she can talk to him alone.

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 4:31 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"It would be cool if they could see," Zara says to Blaze and Flare. "They're telling the story of me finding you." Drawing tends to leave Zara either centred or nervous, depending on whether her gift makes its presence felt - but the nature of this group already leaves her nervous, so she might as well try to calm herself. If the women ask what she's doing, she will call it her meditation - she will try to slip the result to Liz in exchange for the penknife.

Perhaps under the influence of wine as well as a meditative state, Zara half-consciously produces a sketch of what appears to be an adult figure pulling a child away from a fire, the child apparently attempting to escape and draw near the flames. The drawing is easily exchanged for the knife.

Some time afterwards, she is escorted into the simple but comfortable chambers of the Master. He remains sitting while all others stand. With a casual gesture of one hand, what appears to be a wall of flame appears before the newcomers. However, it does not produce sound or heat, nor does it consume anything in the room.

"Walk through the fire, child," the Master says, "and speak your new name."

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 4:36 am**

jp1885 wrote:
With the message carefully folded up and pocketed, Tony will idly enquire if the cult has had an trouble from outsiders or received any threatening messages.

He'll also readily volunteer to be a witness to the ceremony, if only to keep an eye on Zara.

In preparation to this, he will join in the meditation (or at least attempt to - not really his cup of tea, but when in Rome...). Who knows, maybe he'll receive some startling revelation (or maybe he'll start nodding off)?

"There are always those who do not understand," one member of the group explains.

"Yeah, and tries to put a bullet in our brains," another, more cynical one adds. "That's why we had to cut out and find us this groovy desert scene."

Spoiler:

Meditation is good for the mind, it seems. Tony has an intuitive sense, based on tone of voice, body language, and such, that some members of the cult are more sincere in their beliefs than others.

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 4:41 am**

Rooter wrote: Outside the fence, Carson busies himself with his recording devices.

These are easily set up and hidden with the region's plentiful supply of rocks and sand.

As dawn approaches, and the investigators inside the commune go about their business, it becomes evident that it will be impossible to hide the arrival of another dune buggy, and folks will begin wondering who has shown up.

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 4:43 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Before the initiation, Liz seeks out Spark and sees if she can talk to him alone.

He can be found tinkering with the insides of a wristwatch, surrounded by a wide variety of simple tools.

"Getting a good scoop?"

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 5:57 am**

"What will happen when I do...?" Zara swallows - she doesn't make any attempt to conceal being scared, figuring the Master probably gets that a lot.

Posted: **Wed May 22, 2019 10:19 am**

As Zara stalls the initiation ceremony, Tony takes a look at the assembled cultists, trying to pinpoint who is the least fanatical - perhaps the cynical one?

Posted: **Thu May 23, 2019 2:46 am**

"Quite," says Liz with a smile. "Whatever the Master has planned for next week sounds like an even bigger scoop, and I'd like to know more. It sounds like it should make the world sit up and take notice. And if I'm there on the scene when it happens, reporting it, it will get all the attention it deserves."

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 5:39 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"What will happen when I do...?" Zara swallows - she doesn't make any attempt to conceal being scared, figuring the Master probably gets that a lot.

The Master does not answer, but merely smiles enigmatically.

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 5:40 am**

jp1885 wrote:
As Zara stalls the initiation ceremony, Tony takes a look at the assembled cultists, trying to pinpoint who is the least fanatical - perhaps the cynical one?

This would seem to be the case, the person in question being a somewhat older man who calls himself Smoke.

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 5:46 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Quite," says Liz with a smile. "Whatever the Master has planned for next week sounds like an even bigger scoop, and I'd like to know more. It sounds like it should make the world sit up and take notice. And if I'm there on the scene when it happens, reporting it, it will get all the attention it deserves."

"I can't say too much, but a whole lotta draft cards are gonna go up in flames. You know the Forum, that new sports arena they're building in Inglewood? I'd keep my eye on it if I were you."

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 2:23 pm**

Zara nods, and inspired by the memory of an old boyfriend describing her eyes says, "My name is Coal." She walks toward the fire, trying to tell herself that they must all have done this, it must be a trick or illusion or something, it's going to be ok...

OOC: Charisma 13.
Rolled 1D20: 18

But it's wall of fire. "I'm sorry," she says, ostensibly to the Master, but really to Liz and Tony. "I can't do it."

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 6:37 pm**

OOC: Holiday wifi is working, yay!

For the sake of investigative journalism, Tony will volunteer to undertake the ritual if the Master allows it.

Posted: **Thu May 30, 2019 7:11 pm**

As dawn approaches, and the investigators inside the commune go about their business, it becomes evident that it will be impossible to hide the arrival of another dune buggy, and folks will begin wondering who has shown up.

Lew will abandon any pretense of hiding as dawn approaches and goes to the front gate to hail anyone that is there.
"Hello in there. I need some help. I ran into something with my vehicle and I fear I will not make it back to town without repairs."

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 3:22 am**

"Cheers," says Liz with a wink. "Any particular day I should be there?"

Later, at the initiation, Liz observes everything carefully, determined to make sure her friends are safe and to see how it is done.

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 4:41 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Zara nods, and inspired by the memory of an old boyfriend describing her eyes says, "My name is Coal." She walks toward the fire, trying to tell herself that they must all have done this, it must be a trick or illusion or something, it's going to be ok...

But it's wall of fire. "I'm sorry," she says, ostensibly to the Master, but really to Liz and Tony. "I can't do it."

The Master shrugs, as if this is not an uncommon reaction. "So be it. Perhaps you would care to help out in the kitchen or the gardens until your faith is strong enough. You must retain your worldly name until such time."

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 4:44 am**

jp1885 wrote: For the sake of investigative journalism, Tony will volunteer to undertake the ritual if the Master allows it.

With eyes wide open in surprise, the Master says "You understand that this is not a game. I cannot be responsible for what might happen to one who does not follow the way of Light."

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 4:47 am**

Starspawn338 wrote:
As dawn approaches, and the investigators inside the commune go about their business, it becomes evident that it will be impossible to hide the arrival of another dune buggy, and folks will begin wondering who has shown up.
Lew will abandon any pretense of hiding as dawn approaches and goes to the front gate to hail anyone that is there.
"Hello in there. I need some help. I ran into something with my vehicle and I fear I will not make it back to town without repairs."

A couple of folks working in the gardens approach. "I'll get Spark. He digs machines."

As she sets off on this errand, her companion glances as the newcomers. "So, what brings you two out here in the middle of nowhere?" he inquires.

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 4:50 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Cheers," says Liz with a wink. "Any particular day I should be there?"

Later, at the initiation, Liz observes everything carefully, determined to make sure her friends are safe and to see how it is done.

With a chuckle, Spark replies "Let's just say you better get your costume and your bag of candy ready, baby." A young woman speaks to him, explaining that some visitors need help with their vehicle.

"Cool," Spark says, and hurries off with his tools.

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 6:04 am**

"So, what brings you two out here in the middle of nowhere?" he inquires.

"I thought I would go off on an adventure into nature and see what I could see off the grid so to speak." Lew replies as he stands next to the fence. "A road less traveled is not without boulders I have discovered." He says sheepishly.

Posted: **Fri May 31, 2019 10:29 pm**

"Thankyou master, I would be happy to work in the kitchen," Zara says, putting on a show of contrition.

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 2:43 am**

Starspawn338 wrote:
"So, what brings you two out here in the middle of nowhere?" he inquires.
"I thought I would go off on an adventure into nature and see what I could see off the grid so to speak." Lew replies as he stands next to the fence. "A road less traveled is not without boulders I have discovered." He says sheepishly.

"I see. Well, you better come in, out of the sun before it get too hot. Spark will see what he can do with your buggy."

Spoiler:

It isn't much later before Spark has the vehicle back in running order.

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 2:47 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"Thank you master, I would be happy to work in the kitchen," Zara says, putting on a show of contrition.

A couple of young people escort Zara to the food preparation area, where beans, grains, vegetables, and freshly killed small game are made ready. The workers engage in casual conversation while at their labors.

"Don't worry, honey," one woman remarks. "I got scared, too. Took me a while to work up the nerve to walk through the cleansing fire."

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 3:34 am**

"Thankyou," Zara says with a wan smile. "Most of the people here have been so cool to me - oh, maybe I should say warm? I'm really sorry to have let everyone down."

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 4:52 am**

"Nobody would think any less of you if you don't go through with it," Liz tells Tony. "I don't think I'd be able to do it, though I did think of a groovy new name for myself: Phoenix."

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 6:03 am**

"A cool name. A flame that produces no heat can surely be little threat," Tony assures Liz. "And besides, the Knight of Wands must take a risk now and then hm?"

Posted: **Sat Jun 01, 2019 4:55 pm**

"All right," says Liz. "If you don't burn to a crisp, I may try it too. Perhaps it's some kind of optical illusion."

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 1:10 am**

With an unconcerned shrug, the Master waves at Tony to encourage him to move forward. This proves impossible, as if the flames were a solid wall. Although he remains unharmed, Tony simply cannot pass through the fire.

"It seems as if you have not won the favor of Ahura Mazda, " the Master says. "That is not surprising, as He rarely smiles upon unbelievers."

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Time passes uneventfully, for the most part. The bonfire ritual is repeated each night at midnight, followed by much needed deep sleep for all involved. Early one morning, Spark discovers a gap in the fence, obviously cut with insulated wire cutters during the wee hours of the night. More alarming, it soon becomes apparent that the child Ember is missing, seemingly taken away while everyone was sound asleep. There are scattered footprints around the opening in the fence, and signs of dragging. The members of the commune begin to cast suspicious glances at the new arrivals and whisper among themselves about them.

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 3:54 am**

Liz has told her friends what Spike told her about their plans when nobody can overhear them, that they're going to burn the Forum and all the draft cards within it on October 31st. "We need to try to find Ember," she tells the others when she hears of the child being missing. "We need to see to her safety, and besides, people think we're responsible because we're outsiders. If we can find her, that would go a long way toward allaying those suspicions."

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 4:14 am**

"Do you think it's to do with that note Tony found?" Zara asks. "Sounded like churchy people who can't spell." After a pause, she adds, "Wait, it was spelled the same way in their place in the city."

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 5:01 am**

"Yes, I think you're right," says Liz. "We need to see if we can follow their tracks."

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 8:59 am**

"I have recording devices placed outside the compound," Carson remarks. "I'll check if they picked up anything."

Posted: **Sun Jun 02, 2019 8:42 pm**

Tony hits the wall of unpassable flame with a mixture of surprise, disappointment and relief. The rational part of him suspects some kind of invisible wire or hypnotic suggestion. The other half, which remembers the encounter with the Embalmer and his skeletal minions, thinks otherwise.

He grins ruefully at the Master. "Well, at least you know that I'm keen to tell your story. Perhaps I could interview you some time?"

Giving time for the Master to consider this, he makes a show of working with Liz and Zara, while apparently ignoring the newcomers Lew and Carson. He also seeks out his cynical new friend, attempting to get the inside scoop. Is there trouble in paradise? Just what did happen at their former pad to drive them into the desert?

Later, when it transpires that Ember has gone missing, Tony is once again keen to step into the breech by volunteering to follow the tracks that lead from the hole in the fence. Perhaps his cynical friend would like to tag along?

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 12:31 am**

"I'll go with you," Liz says to Tony. "I'm intrigued by the phenomenon that prevented you from walking through the flames, but I'm just as glad you didn't end up making an ash of yourself."

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 6:40 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Yes, I think you're right," says Liz. "We need to see if we can follow their tracks."

There are obvious tracks of an automobile driving away from the compound, leading in the direction of Barstow.

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 6:47 am**

Rooter wrote:
"I have recording devices placed outside the compound," Carson remarks. "I'll check if they picked up anything."

Once there is a chance to listen to the tapes, they reveal the sounds of an automobile approaching in the dead of night; footsteps; the sound of tools working on metal; low, unintelligible speech sounds, as of a woman talking to herself; then a gap of silence. Some time later, more footsteps, and snatches of a conversation between a woman and a girl.

"I don't want to leave."

"You're coming home, and that's that. Ouch!"

"Let me go or I'll burn you again. I'll--"

The child's voice fades away, like someone falling asleep.

"Little demon! Maybe it's not too late . . ."

The woman's voice ceases, more footsteps are heard, then the sound of a car driving away.

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 6:56 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony hits the wall of unpassable flame with a mixture of surprise, disappointment and relief. The rational part of him suspects some kind of invisible wire or hypnotic suggestion. The other half, which remembers the encounter with the Embalmer and his skeletal minions, thinks otherwise.

He grins ruefully at the Master. "Well, at least you know that I'm keen to tell your story. Perhaps I could interview you some time?"

"Tomorrow, then," he answers in a weak voice. The flame vanishes. "I must rest now." The two women help him return to his bedroom.

Giving time for the Master to consider this, he makes a show of working with Liz and Zara, while apparently ignoring the newcomers Lew and Carson. He also seeks out his cynical new friend, attempting to get the inside scoop. Is there trouble in paradise? Just what did happen at their former pad to drive them into the desert?

"It was a bad scene, man," Smoke says. "Some kook with a rifle blasting at the place. Musta been a real bad shot, though. Never hurt nobody. We figured we'd better split 'fore the cops busted us for, like, disturbin' the peace or whatever."

Later, when it transpires that Ember has gone missing, Tony is once again keen to step into the breech by volunteering to follow the tracks that lead from the hole in the fence. Perhaps his cynical friend would like to tag along?

"Hey, man, don't nobody leave the place 'less the Master gives the OK, dig? Upsets the vibes. 'Sides, we don't want no trouble with the squares. Little kid can take care of herself, far as I'm concerned."

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 1:23 pm**

"This is what I drew," Zara says to Liz.

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 1:52 pm**

Tony nods to Smoke and raises an eyebrow.

"So if you wouldn't be allowed to leave voluntarily? Interesting... Thankfully I am under no such restriction and an errany child is always of some concern, so I shall join in the search."

Posted: **Mon Jun 03, 2019 7:33 pm**

Lew thanks Spark for fixing his vehicle and asks, "So what do I owe you for helping me out?"

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 2:04 am**

"As shall I," says Liz, her chin set with determination. She examines Zara's drawing.

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 2:31 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew thanks Spark for fixing his vehicle and asks, "So what do I owe you for helping me out?"

"No charge. Just do me a favor sometime, OK?"

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 2:52 am**

Those who wish to follow the tire tracks back to Barstow will find it easy to do so, until reaching the city itself, when the ordinary confusion of traffic makes it impossible to determine exactly where they lead.

Those who choose to remain at the commune will discover that, in addition to the usual runs into town to pick up necessary supplies (done by the most discreet members of the group, under the Master's direction), the few persons who journey to Barstow and back return with masks and other costuming supplies, of the cheap, simple kind easy to obtain at a general store.

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 3:19 am**

Zara wants to help the little girl, but also needs to keep playing the part of prospective initiate, which means not seeming too much of a unit with the others - so she will stay at the commune. She'll offer to help unload supplies, and take note of where they go.

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 9:07 am**

Tony uses the missing girl as an excuse to leave the compound and collect his thoughts - the claustrophobic interior of the place was causing him to lose focus somewhat.

While the desert heat still baked the town, there was at least space enough to think.

Working on the theory that the kidnapper was of a religious persuasion, he asks around the local churches to see if anyone has rocked up recently accompanied with a previously unknown young girl (or one which hasn't appeared for some time until recently).

If questioned, he will use a variety of excuses from journalist, government official, concerned relative etc. as the situation demands.

He will pay special attention to any chuches where the spelling on the signage outside is particulary bad - 'JEEZUS SAFES' and suchlike.

Posted: **Tue Jun 04, 2019 7:49 pm**

Lew thanks Spark. "Of course I'd be willing to do you a favor in the future." He offers a card for his bookstore. "If you ever need a hard to find book, I'm your man.
Lew will then locate Carson and see if he wants to head back into town in the vehicle.

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 3:03 am**

Liz accompanies Tony, using her considerable charms to get people to open up to them. "We should stick to our journalism cover as much as possible," she says. "We don't want word getting around that we're anything else."

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 7:42 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Zara wants to help the little girl, but also needs to keep playing the part of prospective initiate, which means not seeming too much of a unit with the others - so she will stay at the commune. She'll offer to help unload supplies, and take note of where they go.

Regular supplies go into storage areas located here and there, depending on what they are. (Food into the kitchen, for example.) The stuff that looks intended for a costume party winds up in the back of an old, beat-up delivery van, parked in an otherwise empty part of the compound.

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 7:45 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew thanks Spark. "Of course I'd be willing to do you a favor in the future." He offers a card for his bookstore. "If you ever need a hard to find book, I'm your man.
Lew will then locate Carson and see if he wants to head back into town in the vehicle.

"Cool. Maybe I can score a copy of The Medium is the Massage by McWhatshisname. Supposed to be a heavy trip."

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 7:51 am**

After wearing out their shoes for a while Tony and Liz find out that 1) All the church signs in town have impeccable spelling and grammar, and 2) Nobody at any of the churches knows anything about a new girl showing up lately. If there are religious fanatics in Barstow, such have nothing at all to do with the churches in the city.

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 8:07 am**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:The stuff that looks intended for a costume party winds up in the back of an old, beat-up delivery van, parked in an otherwise empty part of the compound.

"Oh, we off to scare the straights?" Zara asks as the costumes are loaded into the van.

Posted: **Wed Jun 05, 2019 11:23 am**

"Hmm, I suspect we may have had a wasted journey..."

Tony flops down onto a park bench and, removing a shoe, massages his foot.

"What do you say Liz - use Carson's name to check for any missing persons reports and then head back?"

Posted: **Thu Jun 06, 2019 3:20 am**

"Yes, that's probably all we can do," says Liz, sitting next to him and stretching her weary legs. She did have the foresight to wear sturdy yet stylish boots on this trip to the desert, so they're not in that bad shape.

Posted: **Thu Jun 06, 2019 7:18 pm**

"Excellent. Maybe afterwards I'll buy you dinner in reparation for all the footwork." Tony grins.

Play@YSDC

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