Play@YSDC

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 1:13 am**

Chapter One - New York, Starting 12th January 1925

It is the City That Never Sleeps. During the day ships, barges, tugs and pleasure boats ply New Yorks bay and rivers, dashing beneath bridges and disgorging thousands of people upon the citys shores. Each brings hope and dreams of a new life. At night the city blazes with myriad lights, diamonds dazzling in buildings that scrape the sky. Music, food, dance, dark rituals, and clandestine cults flourish beneath the mantle of New York City Secrets of New York (Chaosium 2005)

Downing House - Long Island, New York
7:15pm Monday 12th January 1925

Downing House

It is a lovely, clear winter evening, Long Island is watched over by a moon that is no long quite full, and a million glittering stars. Already a crisp frost is starting to cover the extensive lawns of Downing House, the residence of the Downing family since before the Civil War.

As Elizabeth Downing looks out of the sitting room window at the tranquil winter scene, she hears the housekeeper enter the room behind her.

Excuse me Miss Elizabeth, a telegram has just arrived for you.

Opening the envelope, Elizabeth reads the short message in surprise. It is from an old friend who she has not met for several months, although that isnt particularly surprising for this particular friend. However the content of the telegram itself is quite mysterious indeed.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:09 am**

Andrei is sipping coffee in his upscale New York apartment. He's standing over his desk, where his most recent investment and financial statements are laid out.

The outlook is not good - so far, Andrei has had no luck with any of his business ventures in America.

"If this keeps up for another year, the family fortune will be down the drain", he thinks.

He thinks about Elizabeth, and what would happen to their relationship if we went broke. He could never let that happen. Or at least, he could never let her know.

He feels a headache coming on, and goes to the bathroom for an aspirin.
He changes his mind, pours his coffee down the drain, and makes a scotch instead.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:50 am**

Maksim tosses bits of bread to pigeons in the park, looking over at the chess game two old people are playing on the park bench. He is bored out of his wits and eventually offers to buy a homeless man something from a nearby food cart just to have a reason to start up a conversation with someone and find out what this city has to do.

He considers having some of the scotch he keeps in his trenchcoat pocket but, knowing what a lot of homeless people are like, refrains from drinking it in case the man, Bernard was apparently his name, wanted to share. As much as he didn't mind the company of the poor and broken-hearted, he wasn't naieve enough to trust in their hygiene levels.

"America, home of the free," he mutters in Russian during a break in the conversation, tossing some more pieces of bread at a few pigeons.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 3:32 am**

It's already evening, but the time on the clock hardly means anything anymore to Dr. Caroline Ward. Her practice was genuinely starting to become lucrative, due in no small part to the referrals she'd received already from her friend and patron Elizabeth and Elizabeth's family. Caroline could probably get more patients than even she, a diligent worker, could handle, and it would be easy to get completely lost in the work. But she also craved the nightlife and the world of ease that Elizabeth had helped introduce her to.

No friends like wealthy friends, Caroline thinks, amusing herself. But it really wasn't about money with her and Elizabeth, not really anyway. Caroline had come to think highly of her friend, seeing beyond the scads of money and glamourous facade. Caroline suspected that Elizabeth meant more to her than Caroline did to Elizabeth, but it didn't really matter.

Come to think of it, it had been a rather long time since Caroline had heard from Elizabeth. The other woman was probably having a ball--literally--while Caroline labored away at a stack of files.

"Hope you're having a good time," Caroline sighs to herself.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 4:05 am**

An investigative team?! How exciting! I'm sure Jackson must be onto something quite interesting and involved if he's willing to share his work. And he's asking me to help! Hmm, who to bring? "Thank you, Dorothy. I'll be needing to send several telegrams myself. Oh, and I'll be needing to catch the next train into the city, if you could arrange for that."
"What do you mean 'at this hour'? I'm sure it's no later than 7 or 8 now."
"Fine, you can ask Johnny if he wants to accompany me, but I'm sure he'd rather rest his leg, he was complaining about it earlier today. Something about the weather change."

Elizabeth prepares the following messages to be sent out immediately:

"Dear Andrei stop There's a mystery to be solved, join my investigative team! stop We'll have a blast, I'm sure stop I'm coming into Manhattan now stop Warmly Ellie PS Are your pilot twins still in town?" That should take care of any brawn we may need

"Caroline darling stop Could you possibly break away from your work? stop I want to go adventuring and I need a doctor on my investigative team stop You'll love it, I'm sure stop If possible, meet me at my Manhattan apartment tomorrow stop Tata Liz" She'll be able to look after the brawn when they get themselves into trouble

"Dear Thomas stop I've got a mystery for you stop If you have the time tomorrow, please drop by my apartment so I can tell you about it stop Regards Beth" He's sure good at unraveling mysteries, and I think he'd have fun going on an adventure as well

And here I was, thinking I'd have nothing to do tonight. Elizabeth practically dances upstairs as she goes to put on one of her 'city dresses' and tell mother and father that she was going out to the city tonight afterall. She promises she'll come back later in the week for dinner again.

She'll catch a train into the city, and take a taxi straight to Andrei's place. (Or, if the trains aren't running this late, she'll just have her driver take her.)

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 7:17 am**

imme wrote: "Dear Andrei stop There's a mystery to be solved, join my investigative team! stop We'll have a blast, I'm sure stop I'm coming into Manhattan now stop Warmly Ellie PS Are your pilot twins still in town?"

Andrei sets the telegraph down on his desk. A mystery? Investigative team? It must be some kind of event Ellie's friends were putting on. It sounds like fun, though. Andrei grins - count on Elizabeth to introduce some excitement just when he needed it.

He starts cleaning up the financial statements in preparation for Elizabeth's arrival. He considers what clothes one wears to a "mystery adventure party."

One thing nags him, though. Why did he have to introduce Ellie to the Russian twins? He loved their company, but everything they said to Elizabeth seemed like a flirtation. Not only that, they would definitely do something embarassing in front of Ellie's wealthy friends.

He decides to ignore her query about the twins, and if she asks, he can say he left a message at their hotel. No harm done.

Andrei proceeds to select a record that Ellie likes, chill some wine, and listen to the gramophone.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 10:13 am**

Thomas is sitting in his office, leaning on the back of his chair as he calmly finishes his Xth cigarette of the day. The office is rather small and is often filled with smoke, even though it's always clean and has a lot of charm. Thomas's job as a defense attorney is starting to make good money, yet he never felt the need to move out to a bigger and less personal place - this is where he feels at home. Likewise, he is always dressed with taste, but dislikes wearing suits and never wears expensive clothes. He sports a "free" haircut which contrasts with the traditional well-combed style of the 1920s. But despite not spending much time on his appearance, he could be considered handsome in his own way.

A knock on the door is heard.

"Yeah?" says Thomas, and his associate Michael enters, quickly handing him a telegram before going back to work.

Oh, something from Liz, swell. Thomas thinks, reading with a smile. It had been a little while since they last went out together.

A mystery? This must be important if she won't tell me more in the telegram and asks to meet at her place. Either way I'll get to see her again, and she's not half-bad looking. It's a deal, I'm going.

Thomas packs his things and locks his office, saying goodbye to his associate on the way out.

"Mike, I probably won't be at the office tomorrow morning, something came up with that telegram. I'll keep you in touch, I'll most likely be back by the afternoon. Good night."

Thomas then has supper in a small restaurant nearby, before going back home and drinking a few shots of whiskey while reading a book. He will finish the evening going out to a pub smoking and listening to a live jazz band.

He will be ready to go to Elizabeth's apartment the next day, first hour of the morning, eager to know what's up.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 12:40 pm**

Timour did his best to don his jacket while the Park Ave. socialite on his lips did her best to convince him to stay another hour.
Oh, Arseni, she cried in passion, using his middle name, the one he had given her at the department store. Say something else in that wonderful Russian of yours.

I took $20 dollars and a few Cubans from your husbands cigar box, he said in silky smooth Russian.

She smiled and kissed him even deeper.

I trust you wont think poorly of me, he continued in his native tongue.

She stopped kissing him and looked intently into his eyes, I love that language. When can I see you again?

He shrugged and opened the door, my brother and I are leaving town shortly, he replied in English.

She shot him a look that, if it had the power would have lashed skin from his bones.

But I will be back in a few weeks, when I return we can spend all the time in the world together Anne.

Its Helen, she corrected.

And what a beautiful Helen you are, he breathed once more in Russian.

Promise Ill see you again, she demanded digging her nails into his ribs.

I would have it no other way, he assured her as he backed out of the door and headed for the stairwell.

On the street he took his keys from the parking valet and leapt over the door of his black, convertible Big Six touring car and fired up the engine with an impressive, gasoline fueled roar.

Helen suddenly appeared on the street making quite the scene as she chased after him in her half-slip.

Timour watched her in his rearview mirror as he sped off, listening all the while as she called his name. Extending his left hand upward he waved a nice goodbye and smiled at himself in amused satisfaction.

Now he was off to find his brother, if only he could remember the name of that park?

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 1:21 pm**

Maksim introduced himself to the gentle-seeming family sitting on a plaid picnic rug and managed to persuade them to let him join them. It was a lovely looking middle-aged couple, very much in love, with their two young boys, baby girl, and twenty-something-year-old niece.

He learned that the husband was a doctor, the wife has knitted her children the sweaters they wore, and the niece was an unpublished poet. He asked to hear a few examples and was quite intrigued by the odd grammar English poems possessed. He told them a Russian poem, in Russian, in exchange, and translated it straight to English, amusing them with its nonsensical sentence structure. They had a nice conversation about mistranslations and the oddities of foreign languages, then Maksim offered to escort the neice, a young lady known as Dora, with the children to a nearby swingset.

He and Dora pushed the children on the swings, talking gaily of current events and even religion. He took a few of her views and slowly attempted to convince her of a different way of looking at things, trying to play the Devil's Advocate.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 1:53 pm**

Timour found the park with more ease than he had originally assumed he'd have. A lucky turn down a one way street dumped him onto an avenue that connected to one edge of the green area his brother had ask Timour to meet him at.

Gunning the engine he stopped along side the sidewalk and sat up on the back of his seat, using the heghtened vantage point to better see the faces of the park's occupants.

It took only a few seconds to spot his sibling near the swings. Maksim was with a pretty American girl and a set of children. Laughing to himself the Russia aviator shook his head and grinned broadly, when would his brother learn to pick women without so much baggage? He possessed the same good Rukov looks as Timour did, it could be far simpler to entice unattached women the same age and with the same figures as the one Maksim was currently courting. Women with less worries and who had experienced fewer heartaches.

One day he would finally pound that notion through his head, but for right now he merely wished to get back to driving and find a suitable party to quench his growing appetites for dancing and flirting.

With a long wail of his car horn he drew his brother's attention to his presence and began waving him over.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:05 pm**

Maksim looks over at Dora after spotting his brother's car. He lowers his head apologetically, letting his hair flop a little before his eyes and giving a little coquettish smile that was both utterly innocent and, when done right, utterly devastating.

"Ah, my brother," he says, giving a rough nod in his brother's direction and raising his arms in an exaggerated shrug. "Perhaps we will find each other again."

"Oh, perhaps," she says with a giggle.

"Fate is counting on it," he says, gives an exaggerated bow and jogs off towards Timour. He waits until his brother moves into the passenger seat and then slides in behind the wheel. The waft of perfume mixed with aftershave hits his nose. "Off womanising again, I see?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:11 pm**

"The pot tells the kettle," said the beaming Timour as he lit up a cigar and offered his brother one. "How is mommy and the kids? Planning a little instant family, just add Maksim?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:15 pm**

Maksim looks thoughtful for a long moment as he drives off. "Interesting turn of phrase. I wonder how that'd work out... I don't see many re-marriages." Realising what Timour actually meant, he glances over and gives him a friendly scowl as he pulled up at a traffic cop and waited for the signal to go. "And no, actually, Dora is the neice, not the mother. What about the woman you saw? You even bother to find out if she was a woman or was that a little too much conversation for you?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:22 pm**

Timour slipped the pre-offered cigar away and reached over to mess his bother's hair in a good natured way. Maksim always could talk circles around his best jibes.

"I need a party, brother dear. Something fun and with music and gambling and free food if possible!" he roared in barely contained enthusiam. "Who do we know in town? That Andrei chap, from the old country. Let's see what he's doing, maybe we can meet up with that girl he knows. You know the pretty one with all the money."

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:24 pm**

Reading over the telegram again, Caroline smiles to herself, pleased at the prospect of seeing her friend again and leaving behind the paperwork for some fun--as all things connected with Elizabeth seemed to be.

Her smile drifted to a frown for a moment. But there was so much to do, and she had only a young assistant, Hazel, to manage the office; Caroline would effectively have to close up shop for the day--or more--to attend to Elizabeth's needs, whatever they proved to be. Knowing Elizabeth, it could take more than a day.

But Caroline owed most of her practice to Elizabeth and her family anyway; in more ways than one, she was endebted, even if she'd wanted to say no, which she didn't.

She would have to ring up Hazel, have her move all her appointments back, make referrals for the cases more serious than hangnails. Still, Caroline felt a little thrill at the prospect of some adventure.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:30 pm**

Maksim's perpetual half-smile slipped into a broader grin as he spoke in his native tongue, as he normally did around his twin brother. "Ah, I sense our pal Andrei isn't so keen on having us near his scrumptious lady friend. It is your reputation, I fear, that will have us turned away from his very door. What with my impeccable record, he surely couldn't be worried about me."

"Let us go there, then, and see if we can't talk our way into whatever he has planned. You and I both know that I am more then capable of that... On that note, what have you found to do with your time? I've found this city exceedingly exciting on most days but today... I don't know. I just feel a certain restlessness about the air. And you?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:35 pm**

Andrei opens the door to find Elizabeth grinning at him. "Did you get my telegram? I said I'd be coming .... what are you wearing?"

"Anyway, I'm gathering a group together to investigate a mystery, and I've told them all to meet me tomorrow at my apartment. Oh, will your twin friends be able to come? But it's not too late to go out dancing tonight! Why don't you change into something .... something ... why don't you put on that suit you were wearing last Friday?"

Elizabeth will dance around the apartment while she waits for Andrei to change, and then will drag him off to her favorite jazz club. She plans on dancing the night away, but will wake up the next morning none the worse for it.

"I've been missing traveling around. New York's great, but sometimes my feet just get restless, you know?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:36 pm**

Timour nodded, "I fear it maybe time to move on, little brother. I'm down to my last $20 and fear the growing specter of working for our keep looms on the horizon. Either we find gainful employment, liberate valuables from those unaware, a practice you know I frown upon or we push on to New Jersy, or perhaps up Canada way."

"Look see, there's Andrei's place. Isn't that that rich girl now, just going inside? Elizabeth, right? I dare say, fortune is smiling upon us my brother."

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:41 pm**

OOC: I assumed it was on the classic New York city street and thus there wasn't available parking right outside.

Maksim tilts his head and thoughtfully looks up at the building. "You realise, dear brother, that he might count as the unaware... Perish the thought, of course, but were we to require more funds, I'm sure we could scare up a nonexistent job opportunity or two. But yes, for now, let's see if there's something else on the horizon." He hops out of the car and trots to the front door. "Do me a favor and go park the car somewere that isn't illegal."

He takes hold of the door knocker and clanks it down, once, twice. He raked his fingers through his hair, straightened his tie and posed in his most evilly thoughtful manner. You never knew who might come to the door.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:44 pm**

While Andrei is off changing, Elizabeth answers the door to find the Rukov twins standing there. "Aha! I was just thinking about you two. Mr. Rukov, Mr. Rukov, we're about to go out dancing, would you care to join us? Oh, and also I want to recruit you to go on an adventure, but I'll tell you more about that tomorrow .... assuming you're available to meet at my apartment?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:48 pm**

Maksim smiles at her and takes off his bowler hat, holding it over his heart. "I would love to go dancing with you," he says in a reasonably thick Russian accent. "And an adventure? What a beautiful thought. I am, as always, curious. Forgive me if I can't wait until tomorrow to hear of it though I will try to be patient."

He reaches out to grasp her hand and, if she lets him, he raises it a little, as though to kiss it, then changes his mind and gives it an awkward shake. "It is hard to tell, with a modern woman, such as yourself, what makes for the proper greeting. May we enter?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 3:08 pm**

Timour who had quickly followed his brother upstairs after parking the car shrugs his shoulders and nods a quick greeting, "If we're going, we should go. I had to double park. The traffic around here is nightmarish."

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 3:27 pm**

Johnny paused at the door of Elizabeth's apartment.
If she were around she'd be making more noise...
Miss Downing traditionally mentioned his leg when she was inviting him to an event but wasn't planning on waiting up. Or spending the night in.

Opening the door with the spare key he'd picked up on his way out of the Downing House, he stepped inside.
Not here for long; if she stopped by at all.

Dorothy had, as usual, provided a useful chunk of information. God, or whoever, knew the woman was a tremendous gossip. He tapped out a small amount of tobacco into a paper.
Elias... Telegram... Meeting later this week...

He idly lit the cigarette and worked through the current choices.
1. Hurry out, catch up and play shadow for the evening.
I'll only get one guess, and the guess would be the Russian. Which did me good in Paris. But she didn't know half the city. And I'd be up most of the night, if not longer
2. Look up Elias
Didn't ring much of a bell. Maybe he was in Egypt? Anyway he's not in town till later. If she wanted something snooped Miss Downing would have mentioned it.
3. Get a good nights rest; show up in the morning for marching orders.
Best idea

Johnny quietly let himself out and locked the door behind him.
She'd see the cigarette in the ashtray and know he was around. And if she was too busy to notice... then I'm not needed anyway.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 6:54 pm**

Andrei steps out of the bathroom, wearing the suit Elizabeth requested.

He freezes in his tracks when he sees the Russian Twins at the doorway. For a moment, he regards them with a cold stare, until he sees that both twins are watching him.

Andrei steps up beside Elizabeth and puts his arm around her. "You're coming out with us tonight, friends?" He asks. "Fantastic!" There's no use in trying to fight it, they'll come now no matter what. He is smiling, but his bright blue eyes are still boring holes in the two brothers.

On the way out the door, Andrei slaps Maksim on the back.

"So, how soon until you're leaving town?"

[OOC: Since I'm standing next to Elizabeth, (and behind her when I first see the twins), I'm assuming she doesn't see Andrei's piercing stare.]

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 7:13 pm**

"To go on this adventure, you mean?" Maksim asks, eyes twinkling in response. He understands what he's trying to say even if Andrei won't come out and admit it. No reason to let him off the hook that easily. "Or is this supposed to be, how do you say it? Hush hush? Your lady friend seemed excited at the time. Or is this adventure something she has not told you about?" He turns to regard Elizabeth with a calculatedly sheepish smile. "If so, I am sorry to spoil the surprise."

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 7:51 pm**

Andrei reverts to his easiest way of talking - polite and formal. "It would be a pleasure to have you along." He falls silent, looking lost in thought.

An adventure with Ellie would be a dream come true. With these two along, it's going to be a nightmare. I can only hope it doesn't last longer than tommorrow.

Not wanting to look stupid, Andrei resolves not to ask Elizabeth anything more about the mystery. But the suspence is killing him. Tonight, after dancing, when they're alone, he'll ask her some questions. He doesn't want to be on an equal footing as the two brothers. Ellie is HIS girlfriend, so he should be the second-in-command of this "adventure."

Andrei will try to enjoy himself for the rest of the night, and will keep a close eye on Elizabeth and the brothers. He wants to make sure they don't try getting too close with her. They can dance together, but Andrei will always be watching.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 8:30 pm**

Maksim will be the perfect gentleman all night and will return Andrei's watchfulness with thoughtful scrutiny of his own. He'll attempt to persuade Elizabeth to move to a part of the room where he can hear better, only to quiz her as to the adventure she's got planned for him. He's quite keen on knowing what it might be and whether there might be a little financial reward at the end of it.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 8:34 pm**

Timour alternately concentrates on his more carnal pursuits. He likes the look of Elizabeth but doesn't fawn over her like he sees the others doing. There are many amusements at the party and he has an eye for all of them.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 11:09 pm**

Elizabeth seems very excited about "The Adventure", but in response to questioning will only reveal that it's about unraveling a mystery and will likely to involve travel to exotic locations. "You'll just have to wait until tomorrow" is her reply to any further questioning. "Don't you love some suspense in life?"

Her excitement is contagious, and anyone who allows himself to relax (OOC--I'm looking at Andrei, here) will have an enjoyable evening full of dancing and jazz at multiple clubs around the city. Elizabeth obviously knows where to go, and has an easy time getting in. Eventually, after many hours, she will admit to being tired and allow the Russians to escort her home, only charmingly intoxicated.

Posted: **Tue Oct 24, 2006 11:31 pm**

After 4 or 5 drinks, Andrei worries less about Elizabeth. As with most introverts, he becomes a bit of an extrovert when drunk.

He buys drinks for the group, shares some belly laughs with the brothers about their Russian past and experiences in New York. He dances with Ellie, sweeps her up in his arms, and whispers funny drunken things in her ear.

The rest of the night is a blur for Andrei, but when he wakes up the next morning he feels good - his brain feels fuzzy, but a lot of the stress is off his chest. As always, Elizabeth makes Andrei feel like the world is his oyster.

He drinks a cup of orange juice, dons a freshly pressed white shirt, and brushes his teeth, all the while watching the clock. He decides to show up a little early at Elizabeth's apartment with a rose for her.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 12:43 am**

Maksim wakes up in the Studebaker with only the faintest trace of a hangover, despite the copious volumes of liquour he managed to con, steal or coax from that various patrons. He finds himself sprawled across the front seats and bangs his head against the steering wheel as he groggily tries to sit up.

Wincing more from the early morning light than anything else, Maksim gets the feeling that this just isn't going to be his day. He can already imagine what tales Timour would have to tell from last night.

He yawns and checks his pocket watch. Good, he still had time to get to Elizabeth's. There were two questions, though. Did he have the time to shower and not just straighten up his clothes? And where was he?

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 1:37 am**

Dakota Apartments - 72nd Street and Central Park West, New York
9:00am Tuesday 13th January 1925

Dakota Apartments

As the sun slowly rises into the clear January sky above Central Park, the temperature is still well below freezing. The park itself looks beautiful shrouded in a thin layer of white mist that is slowly being evaporated by the weak rays of the winter sunshine.

Those people who are out and about on the park and the sidewalks are well wrapped up, their breath misty in the frosty morning air.

Throughout the Dakota and the other Central Park West apartments of New Yorks rich and famous the party-goers of the night before are rising from their beds. Prohibition has had little effect on the Jazz Age nightclubs of this mighty metropolis, and many of those waking now have hangovers to prove it.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 1:46 am**

Elizabeth wakes up bright and cheerful in the morning. Russians are always so much fun. I'm glad Andrei was able to relax and have fun. Sometimes he gets in funny moods. She has some orange juice and toast and puts herself together. She notices the cigarette. Oh, Johnny must have been here. I'm sure he'll come back now that it's morning. The doorbell rings and she rushes over to answer it.

"Oh, Andrei, what a beautiful rose. Thank you. Wasn't last night a blast?"

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:02 am**

As dawn broke, Caroline rose somewhat wearily from bed. It'd taken her longer than she'd expected to wrap up her business enough to be gone even for the day. Lord help her if she had to be gone longer than that. Hazel was an angel, but she wasn't a doctor, and she could only cover things for so long before her fickle patients with their ailments, real and imagined, found another fashionable physician.

As she drank her morning coffee, its magical properties clearing her head, she ruefully imagines what Elizabeth's head must feel like this morning. She was probably fine, actually, Caroline mused. She seemed to have a preternatural ability to imbibe without discernible negative effect. And she was doubtless with her Russian man, Andrei. Everyone knew how *they* could drink; they were practically medical prodigies. She'd be interested in taking his medical history. Purely for science, of course.

Later, dressing for the brisk weather, she hails a cab for the trip over to her friend's. She's brought only the clothes she's wearing and her ever-present medical bag. If Elizabeth needed her for more than a day ... well, Caroline would see.

She rings the bell, and after a moment is greeted by her dear friend.

"My dear," Caroline says playfully, "you look fresher than I suspect you have a right to."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:23 am**

imme wrote: "Oh, Andrei, what a beautiful rose. Thank you. Wasn't last night a blast?"

Andrei gives Elizabeth a big hug, picking her up and kissing her. "All because of you, my wild little rose! All because of you!"

Andrei helps Elizabeth make coffee in the kitchen, "Before the guests arrive and you let us all in on your little secret." He jokes with her about the hijinks of the russian scoundrels the previous night (he calls them scoundrels).

He hugs her again, making the most of the private time they have together. "I want to take you out for a nice dinner tonight, Ellie. Will we have time for that? Or are you whisking me away to Iceland this afternoon?"

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:35 am**

"How did you meet those fellows anyway? Iceland? Can you only think of frozen places you big, silly Russian? Think somewhere warmer ... But we won't be leaving for a few days, I'm sure. Of course we can have dinner." Elizabeth is interrupted by the door bell. "Oh!" She scurries off to answer it.

"Hello Caroline! What do you mean? I was only out late dancing the night away, as usual." Elizabeth grins and leads Caroline into the apartment. "Andrei, you remember my friend Dr. Caroline Ward, don't you?"

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:45 am**

Maksim watches the mysterious woman rush up to Elizabeth's apartment as he walks from the parking spot he had slept in. She was an enticing sort, and apparently knew Elizabeth quite well.

He smiled, rubbing his hands, still encased within the leather driving gloves, and knocked on the door, flashing his most cheerful grin when the door is opened.

"Hope I'm not too early," he says. "What can I say? I'm a curious man."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 3:20 am**

Andrei looks over his shoulder at Caroline, where he's pouring coffee from Elizabeth's fancy new electric coffee purcolator. "Good morning, Ma'am."

He quietly pours coffee and listens to the two of them chat.

Andrei will offer any newcomers a fresh cup of coffee. He looks Maks up and down, smiles and says "You need this. Where did YOU end up last night?"

As more people arrive, Andrei politely greets/introduces himself, and quietly observes everyone from a chair next to Elizabeth's.

[OOC - Andrei often unconscioulsy uses his Psychology skill, evaluating peoples' interactions with each other, and watching their body language to see if they're nervous, comfortable, etc. If someone doesn't look comfortable, he'll make eye contact with them and give them a warm smile.]

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 3:28 am**

"I ended up sleeping in my car," Maksim says, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. He turns to the woman he hadn't seen before and extends his hands, again uncertain whether to kiss it or shake it, it's hard to tell with some of these modern women and he would rather seem too modern than too traditional in front of Elizabeth. Normally it was safer not to extend a hand at all, but he liked the physical contact. Women often had such lovely hands.

"Maksim Mikhailovich Kliment Mechulaiev Drobnitsa Rukov." He felt in the mood to speak Russian and had the feeling that his name would be the closest he'd get to that. "And you are?"

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 3:57 am**

Elizabeth will direct Maksim to the bathroom, if he would care to freshen up (she is so polite that this could not possibly be interpreted as an insult). As people arrive she will make introductions and encourage conversation, gracefully stepping into the role of hostess. She will fend off any questions regarding the mysterious adventure with a polite, "I'm still expecting some others, let's wait until we have everyone."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 4:55 am**

"Maksim Mikhailovich Kliment Mechulaiev Drobnitsa Rukov. And you are?"

"Charmed," says Caroline amiably, taking the offered hand. Another Russian, she thinks; how very interesting. And this one was more than a bit dashing, too, despite the scruffy appearance. Yet what kind of a man sleeps in his car?

"I'm Caroline, one of Elizabeth's many friends. I'm a physician in the city, and our hostess here"--giving Elizabeth a teasing look--"has pulled me away from my practice for what I hope is a very good reason.

"Oh, and very good to see you again, Andrei."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 7:33 am**

Andrei leans against a wall, sipping coffee, talking to Caroline.

"Good morning. What a surprise to see you here! But... I mean.. a good surprise! I wonder who else Ellie has invited?"

"I wonder what this is all about. No, she won't mention any details to me", he smiles at Elizabeth if she's listening.

"I think its some kind of surprise party. Maybe there will be a cake at the end!"

He glances over her shoulder at the door, expecting more visitors. Timour still needs to show up. I wonder what he got up to last night.

Looking over at Elizabeth (and quickly noting her body language as she talks to Maks), Andrei asks: "Who else did you invite, Ellie? At least tell us how -many- you invited! I need to know if I should make more coffee."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 9:22 am**

Johnny makes his way up to the door of the apartment. Pausing for a minute to confirm that people are talking outside he quietly unlocks the door and slips in.
Once inside he'll tip his hat to Miss Downing before quietly making his way to a chair in the corner of the room. Perched on the chair with his 'bad' leg stretched out; he'll rest his hat on his golden-dragon capped cane and chew on his toothpick.

He addresses Caroline as "Doctor" and a polite nod if she speaks to him. Otherwise he greets anyone who greets him with a firm handshake and a "Hello".

She's mixing social groups. Caroline's not the natural choice to invite out with Andrei. And Andrei with Russian friends isn't a natural choice for an early morning brunch. Something is definitely up...

[OCC: A psych roll would suggest Johnny is fairly relaxed. He's either been in situations like this before or he's comfortable with his perceived role.
A really good psych roll might make someone wonder why a man who seems to go to great lengths to avoid attention has such a gaudy looking cane.]

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 10:19 am**

Thomas wakes up early, feeling fresh, and starts the day with a few cigarettes and two cups of black, smoking hot coffee. After calmly waiting at his balcony for the sun to rise, he puts on his hat and coat and walks out of his apartment to the cold New York streets of January.

He drives to Elizabeth's place, having no trouble remembering the address even though he has only been there once: he has developed a stunningly good memory over the years spent studying his many law books.

He then calmly knocks on the door and waits for Elizabeth to open.

"Good morning miss. As you can see, you piqued my interest with your telegram."

He looks at her up and down.

"Like the dress. Are you letting me in?"

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 12:19 pm**

Timour fresh from a morning shower, wearing a newly pressed suit and obviously shined shoes exits his taxi cab and slips the driver a generous tip before turning to behold the majesty of the Dakota. He clasps the door man on the arm and gives him a warm smile before heading to the front desk and asking for Elizabeth Downing's apartment.

As usual he has no trouble getting inside and as he slips off his fedora in the operated elevator he makes small talk with the attendant until finally reaching his desired floor.

Standing before the door way Timour adjusts his tie and double checks his hair in the shiny surface of a nearby golden vase. Satisfide he rings the bell and waits patiently as the door opens.

"Good morning everyone, I trust I'm not fashionably late."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:17 pm**

Elizabeth gives a nod to Johnny once she notices that he's there.

"Thomas, I'm so glad you could make it. I thought the less I said in the telegram the less chance you'd have to control your curiousity. And won't you call me Lisa? Please come in and meet everyone."

"And last but not least, Timour. You don't mind my being informal, do you?"

"Now that everyone's here, perhaps you would all care to make yourselves comfortable for what I have to say." Elizabeth will politely wait for people to seat themselves.

Im sure youre all wondering why Ive gathered you here today. Elizabeth begins straight-faced, but cant maintain it and breaks out into a huge grin. Ive got an adventure for us all! Yesterday I got a telegram from an old friend of mine, Jackson Elias. You may recognize his name from the books hes written. His most famous, Sons of Death is about how he infiltrated a cult of Thuggees in India and what he learned. I guess you could say hes an expert in death cults and how the leaders manipulate their followers by using their fears against them. Damned interesting stuff. Her eyes gleam a bit, as much from her pun as out of delighted shock from hearing herself swear.

So, yesterday I got a telegram from him saying that he has information about the Carlyle expedition, needs an investigative team, and will be here on Thursday. Since hes never willing to discuss a project until its ready to be published, it must mean that hes onto something really big if he needs a team to help. We wont know anything specific until he arrives, but I imagine well end up following in the Expeditions footsteps, going to Egypt and Africa! Ive been to Egypt before and Id love to go back. I hope youll all be able to join me in this adventure, its sure to be a blast! Elizabeth gives everyone a huge smile, as if that alone could convince this group of people to drop everything and follow her around the world.

I was also thinking that we could start gathering information before Jackson arrives, to be prepared for his arrival. I know that Roger Carlyles sister Erica lives just north of the Bronx, so maybe some of us could go talk to her. (Ive never spoken to her, but weve crossed paths a few times.) I could also go talk to Jacksons publisher, Jonah Kensington, whos here in the city, but I doubt hed be willing to tell me much about Jacksons current exploits even if he knows what they are.

So, whatd you all think?

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:21 pm**

Maksim seems quite intrigued by Doctor Caroline's admission to such a profession. Until Elizabeth starts on about the mission, he'll ask her several questions and listen with rapt interest. He's flirtatious with it but a successful psychology roll can tell that he's too distracted by curiosity to actually be trying to get her to fancy him.

He also refers to her from now on as Doctor Ward. OOC: That is her last name, right? I don't have time right now to check.

"How long have you been a doctor? Was it difficult? I imagine you've encountered a lot of hostility. Do you deal with the same complaints as male doctors? What do you think of the job? Do you know what Elizabeth wants us here for? Do you have any stories to tell?" Obviously he won't be as abrupt as those questions and prefers to slip such questions naturally into conversation, but the intentions are there.

He'll also greet Johnny with a good-natured tip of the hat before turning back to Caroline. There's a good chance he'll be just as interesting but it's more fun to enquire and flirt in the same breath.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:38 pm**

"I've only been a doctor for a few years now. Mr. Rukov," Caroline replies. "As I'm sure you know, it does take a very long while to push one's way through medical school and all the related training. With the help of our gracious hostess"--Caroline nods in Elizabeth's direction--"I've been able to start up a practice, something most new doctors aren't able to do. I'm very grateful to her. If it weren't for Elizabeth, in fact, I probably wouldn't have been able to afford to finish medical school."

Caroline stops for a moment. "It has been hard sometimes to be a 'lady doctor,' yes. Fortunately, I was able to attend Johns Hopkins, which has been coeducational for a few decades now, and we women doctors aren't as rare as the papers might have you think. I do sometimes find that some of my male patients are, well, a little uneasy talking about their medical histories with me, but on the other hand many of my female patients seem to open up rather easily.

"But I've ended up telling you a good deal already. Has anyone told you that you have a *very* compelling manner?" Caroline smiles in a way that conveys both pleased interest and a clinician's studious curiosity.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 2:46 pm**

Timour listened to Elizabeth's proposal with sincere interest. He loved to travel and taste the fruits of exotic living, he'd never been to Africa and the opportunity intrigued him but only to the point of how much it would cost.

If she was offering to pick up the tab then he'd be willing to go, provided she allowed him a few travel necessities and permits to carry them and use them should he have a reason.

He also pondered his wage, but not for a second what was expected of him. He'd been a soldier long enough to perfect his art and he'd been a mercenary long enough to know when he was being hired to use it.

He had skills and talking to people about blah-blah-blah was not one of them. In fact gathering information sounded incredibly boring, it was quite obvious that she would be hiring Maksim to handle that part of the equation.

As for the others, they were likely just going along as servants and tourists, which was fine by him, the more the merrier as long as they didn't do anything that might get him or his sibling killed.

Timour watched as the others blasted their hostess with a barrage of questions and concerns, deciding that, he would pull her off to the side and speak with her about his requirements when the there was a quieter and potentially more personal moment available.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 3:19 pm**

Caroline is a bit taken aback by Elizabeth's proposal but tries hard not to show that in her body language.

It's one thing, she thinks, for Elizabeth to ask me out here at the drop of a hat for a short visit, but it's another to suggest that I close up my practice indefinitely to go god-knows-where for god-knows-how-long. Certainly it would mean laying aside a lot of hard work, but Caroline knew herself well enough to understand that what *really* bothered her was how this all reminded her of her debt to Elizabeth (and, make no mistake, there was a debt there, even if Elizabeth didn't realize it), their unequal footing, their difference in lifestyle. Elizabeth would merely be interrupting her dance-and-club schedule to go to Egypt; Caroline would be, in some ways, giving up her dream.

Caroline sighed inwardly. She knew she'd already made her mind up to go; she never could resist Elizabeth, not for long anyway. And part of Caroline *wanted* this, too--wanted to get away from richie-rich hypochondriacs, wanted to see exotic places, wanted to drink and dance till dawn, wanted to live Elizabeth's life. But part of her also knew that she was too responsible for that, and that *someone* would need to keep a clear head and ask the lucid questions wherever they were going. Maybe there was a happy medium somewhere.

"Sounds fascinating, Elizabeth," Caroline says.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 3:42 pm**

Maksim notices Caroline's odd demeanor and assumes she is merely nervous about travelling with so many strangers gives her a gentle and reassuring smile, resisting the urge to reach over and pat her hand. He was well aware of his own touchy feeliness when it came to women and the time for familiarity with her was not yet upon them. Perhaps later, after she had mended whatever damage tagging along with Timour was likely to deal him, they would be close enough for such familiarities.

"Don't worry," he says in a low voice, hoping that only she will hear. "We're not that difficult to get along with. I'm sure you won't have to spend too long in the company of strangers. We look like a sorry lot but we're a good sort."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 4:10 pm**

Thomas nods to all the people inside, unaware of who they are. He will introduce himself if he is asked, but will not say anything if nobody asks him.

So I'm only a small fraction of a team here. Not quite the personal assignment I was expecting. Everyone seems to know each other here as well, except me. I don't know that I'm going to join in, it sure as hell looks like they could do fine without me. ... Thomas thinks, briefly considering heading straight back to his office and forgetting about this whole incident. He decides however to stay for a little more, if only to not offend Elizabeth by leaving so quickly.

(OOC - Thomas uses his high Psychology skill to prevent others from sensing his current feelings)

"What is it that you know about Roger Carlyle, Liz?" he asks after Elizabeth's speech, purposely ignoring her request to call her Lisa. "I remember him as some rich dog who used to live here, and financed his own expedition to Africa some six years ago or so. The papers followed that story a bit. He died there along with the rest of his party, didn't he? Know anything else about that?"

Thomas then lights a cigarette and pays little attention to anyone except Elizabeth, who is currently the only person he knows in the room.

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 5:08 pm**

Andrei is frowning, listening to Elizabeth and processing the information gleaned from the questions people are asking.

Why would he ask Elizabeth for help? Her money, must be her money. Or maybe he's an old boyfriend that wants to re-ignite their relationship. God, I hope not.

He looks at the people around the room from his comfortable chair, fingering the empty coffee mug in his lap.

What a bizarre group of people we are. I'm not sure what this Jackson fellow will think of her choice of companions. I doubt we're going to Africa - probably some boring research in New York for him. I hope Elizabeth doesn't get disappointed when she finds out. Maybe there's a way to break the news to her more gently.

Andrei leans over to Elizabeth.

"Lets pay a visit to his publisher, then, Ellie." Hopefully he can help break the news.

"Of course I'm in! Whether its a trip to the library here in New York, or a boat trip to Africa, I'll be there."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 5:48 pm**

Andrei seems rather ... committed, Caroline thinks.

"I think going to the library would be a good idea. I'm pretty familiar with the stacks and the archives. I'd be willing to go."

Posted: **Wed Oct 25, 2006 7:57 pm**

Timour after overhearing some of the enthusiastic reactions about a trip to the library resists the temptation to chuckle in derision. If this was the extent of their adventure's excitement he was going to make a lot of money very easily.

OOC- if anyone tries to guage Timour's feeling about the more 'egg-headed' aspects of the adventure he will be resisting it, as he intends to keep his opinions as secretive as he can.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 1:12 am**

[OOC: this can happen after Elizabeth gives some information to Thomas about the Carlyle expedition, apologies if I didn't let you get a word in, Imme!]

Looking around the room, it seems that some people share Andrei's scepticism.

Poor Elizabeth.. I love how she gets so excited about things. I hope she's not going to be too disappointed.

Andrei stands up stiffly and clears his throat. He's not trying to, but his voice booms over the rest of the chatting.

"Before anyone goes anywhere, why don't we see if we can telephone his publisher? Lets see if we can learn something before we start running around town..?"

Andrei looks at Elizabeth for approval, then the rest of the group. He swallows hard. He's trying to look confident, but anyone observant can tell he's self-conscious in front of this many people. He's slouching a bit, trying to diminish his massive frame, and his hands play nervously over the empty mug in his hand.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 3:09 am**

Noticing how no one else can see the fun in Elizabeth's proposition, Maksim stretches and raises a hand. "I'm willing to go and talk to anyone you like. It wouldn't be the first time I've gone to random strangers for a talk. But as much as I love libraries, I've always just picked up any old book and started reading. I wouldn't know where to look when it came to finding perfect information."

He smiles lazily, enjoying the thought of having other people involved in snooping into other people's backgrounds. "I admit, this does sound like my idea of fun. Even if no one else is interested, I'm more than willing to help you." His smile spreads into a more flirtatious look and he turns to look at the others. "I'm surprised, but, what made you think of me? Has Andrei been gossiping about my snooping habits? Or did Timour complain of me talking to strangers? I can't really see how my pilot experience could have gotten you interested in me."

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 4:36 am**

warhammer wrote: "What is it that you know about Roger Carlyle, Liz?" Thomas asks after Elizabeth's speech, purposely ignoring her request to call her Lisa. "I remember him as some rich dog who used to live here, and financed his own expedition to Africa some six years ago or so. The papers followed that story a bit. He died there along with the rest of his party, didn't he? Know anything else about that?"

"Oh, well, I know that they originally started in Egypt, but ended up somewhere ... was it Uganda or Kenya? before their unfortunate demise. I was thinking that you're so good at unraveling mysteries, Mr. Allan, lawyer extraordinaire, that maybe this one would prove to be a good challenge for you." Elizabeth flashes him a huge grin, giving the impression that she's sure he'll enjoy this puzzle she's offering him.

Laraqua wrote: "I'm surprised, but, what made you think of me? Has Andrei been gossiping about my snooping habits? Or did Timour complain of me talking to strangers? I can't really see how my pilot experience could have gotten you interested in me."

"From what Andrei's told me, you and Timour have been through some great adventures, and gotten yourselves out of some tough situations. I imagine such skills may prove highly useful here. Besides, your curiosity and enthusiasm will be valuable assets in this adventure, I'm sure."

Elizabeth turns to Caroline, "I think some research is an excellent idea. Maybe you and Thomas could start to unravel what happened to the Carlyle Expedition. Yes, Andrei, let's go talk to the publisher and try to find out what Jackson's been up to. I'm tempted to send you," she turns to the Rukov twins, "to talk to Erica, but she's not the party animal her brother was, and I'm not sure she could handle the two of you." (This is said with another grin and a twinkle in her eye.) "Although, in all seriousness, I would feel bad about making her think about her deceased brother." A frown passes across Elizabeth's face, an unusual occurrence.

"Well, anyway, I'd like to invite everyone to my home in Long Island tonight for dinner. That way you can all get to know each other better and we can share whatever we've learned during the day. Sound good?" (Elizabeth seems to have forgotten that she and Andrei had planned to have dinner together. She also seems to assume that Johnny needs no guidance as to his actions.)

OOC--At her first opportunity after this meeting breaks up, she will telegram her parents to tell them that she's coming home for dinner ... and bringing five friends. (She'll wait to tell them that she may be leaving for Africa soon until she can talk to them in person.)

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 4:53 am**

"Perhaps it would be best to just send me," Maksim says with a wry smile. "I am good at giving a different kind of comfort to tearful women than my brother is." Then a look of serious concern passes over his face. "I am sure I could speak with her without causing too much pain on her part. I have dealt with crying widows and mothers before, along with shell shocked husbands and sons." He smiles again. "However, I suppose Timour might as well come along. It'll give him something to do."

"Dinner sounds wonderful," he says, thinking on his hungry stomach and lack of money. "I'm looking forward to get to know each of you." He looks over at Caroline and gives her a smile, trying to understand what kind of person she looks for in a man.

OOC: C'mon, give dear old Maksim a bone. He rolled low enough.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 6:28 am**

Andrei stays quiet for the rest of the meeting. He's hurt that Elizabeth forgot their dinner date. Or maybe she would rather be with -all- these people and her parents, instead of just him? He feels a little sick. Things haven't been as... "passionate" between the two of them for a while. They didn't even spend the night together last night!

This recent telegram, and these lawyers and doctors and chinamen aren't helping things either.

At least the two of them are going to the publisher's office together.

Andrei hangs around her apartment until everyone leaves. If someone looks like they're going to go with them, he suggests they go to a -different- library. "We should cover as many places as we can." If Johnny wants to follow, Andrei takes him aside and says, "Listen, Johnny, Ellie and I need some time together, OK?"

It feels like this will be the last time him and Elizabeth spend alone for a while.

He's not thinking about the trip much, and still imagines Elizabeth has overblown things. He hopes she has - the sooner its over, and all these strangers go back to their own lives, the better.

. . .

On the way to the publishers, Andrei will be a little reserved, but try to look happy. He'll help ask as many questions as he can think of when they arrive. Afterwards, he asks to buy Elizabeth lunch at a diner she likes, before they pack for a night spent at her parents' house.

[OOC: trying to get my word in before I go to bed and the rest of the party posts all night!]

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 7:00 am**

"If she's half as well off as her brother it may be difficult to make an approach," Johnny's voice is low, but he speaks during a lull in theconversation making it easy to hear him. "She may be able to shake off her grief to talk about the subject if someone had something interesting to tell her about what happened to her brother though." His English is mostly unaccented though it had a bit of New York flavor (but not New Yawk level).

(If the brothers ultimately decide to approach the sister he'll go with. Otherwise...)
Johnny is going to pick up a copy of Elias' Sons of Death and accompany Miss Downing & Andrei to the publishers (if they leaveimmediately he goes with and gets the book after they're done, if not then he steps out for a minute, picks up a copy and comes back).

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 9:59 am**

"Hold on a second there. Keep your pants on, everyone." interrupts Thomas as everyone is already making plans and getting ready to leave. "What are we going to bother Carlyle's sister for? We don't know anything about her, and as of now we don't know much about him either, or about what Ms Downing's friend, who sent the telegram, wants exactly." (OOC - Thomas purposely uses "Ms Downing" in response to "Mr Allan")

"I'll go to the NY library and look up the Carlyle expedition in old papers to collect more info. I've done this countless times to find archive material for my cases, so this should be a quick and easy job. But I reckon someone could do the same for Erica Carlyle, and I say we learn a tad more about this whole thing before we already go and bother her."

What are all these people so eager about? Thomas thinks. Is there something I don't know? Liz sure seems to know more than she lets on. Perhaps I should attempt to get some time alone with her.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 10:16 am**

Maksim smiles. Everyone was always so nervous about contacting complete strangers for redundant reasons. To him, it was a game but if the others wanted to be so serious about it, he might as well find out just why Elizabeth wanted to speak to her. Perhaps he and Elizabeth were kindred souls...

He sidled up to her, leaning against the nearest object, hands thrust deep in his pockets, in a slightly flirtatious way, subtle enough to not get himself into any trouble, but obvious enough that it would at the very least unsettle Andrei. Best to keep one's motivates mysterious.

"Well, well, I think everyone here wants to know what your great interest in the whole thing is. Is there something up your sleeve? Something we don't already know? Or are you just as keen for some excitement on such a cold, lonely day as I am?" He looked around. "Don't worry, to me it sounds like fun."

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 1:57 pm**

warhammer wrote: "What are we going to bother Carlyle's sister for? We don't know anything about her, and as of now we don't know much about him either, or about what Ms Downing's friend, who sent the telegram, wants exactly."

"That's a good point, Thomas, but if the Rukov twins go to meet her now, they can at least get an impression of her, and then if they want to go back later once we know more, that'll be fine, too." Elizabeth's voice has a bit of a questioning tone to it, as if she's almost asking if her idea is actually a good one.

Laraqua wrote: "Well, well, I think everyone here wants to know what your great interest in the whole thing is. Is there something up your sleeve? Something we don't already know? Or are you just as keen for some excitement on such a cold, lonely day as I am?"

Elizabeth smiles back at Maksim. "No, I don't know anything more than you do. Well, I do know Jackson, and that he's always running around investigating interesting mysteries, but I don't know anything more about this case, specifically." Her smile widens. "I guess I also just enjoy whatever chance for excitement I can find."

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:07 pm**

After spending an interesting morning at Elizabeths luxurious apartment discussing her adventure the investigators split up and head their separate ways.

New York Public Library
12:35pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Thomas and Caroline soon arrive at New Yorks massive and famous Public Library and after making their way up the huge main reading room above the librarys towering stacks, they begin to work their way through the extensive collection of old newspapers, seeking information about what exactly became of the Carlyle Expedition.

Prospero House, New York
12:40pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Elizabeth and Andrei, feeling a little better now that he finally has his belle to himself, travel to Prospero House, publishers of all of Jacksons books.

The publishing house is a small affair located on Lexington Avenue, close to 35th Street. When they enter they find that it is a welcoming and informal place with only a handful of staff. They are warmly greeted by the owner Jonah Kensington, a studious looking man of average build, he is slightly overweight, and has grey hair and a thick beard. Elizabeth has met him once or twice in the past, but they have ever really got to know each other.

Nonetheless he recognises the beautiful young lady at once, and crosses the office to greet her, Ellie, what an unexpected surprise, what can I do to help you and your friend. Mr.?

He offers his hand for Andrei to shake.

Outside Carlyle House, Westchester County, New York State
1:30pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Although none of the investigators knew the exact location of Erica Carlyles residence, it didnt take much effort at all to find out, Maksim is soon sat beside his brother in Timours big Studebaker touring car heading north towards the Bronx, with Johnny Wong sat intently in the back.

Carlyle House, is located about 25 miles north of the city, in Westchester County on the bank of the Hudson River. The infamous Sing Sing prison can be seen a few miles further upstream.

Conditions are icy, and there is still a lot of patchy mist and fog, so the journey takes a little over an hour in all, but eventually Timour pulls up his car in sight of the gates of Carlyle House. The three investigators can see two gatekeepers stood outside the huge iron gates. Each man is in uniform and has a holstered handgun.

The estates five acre grounds are surrounded on three sides by a twelve foot high iron fence, topped with sharpened finials. The grounds are quite heavily wooded, but the season means that the towering trees are leafless, and there is little undergrowth, so it is still possible to see the house itself from the road.

From where they sit in Timours car, the investigators can see several other guards patrolling the grounds in pairs, each of these guards appears to be carrying a Thomson submachinegun slung over their shoulder, and each pair is accompanied by a large German Shepherd dog.

The whole scene appears quite creepy with the old, old house heavily guarded, and surrounded by towering gnarled trees, and patches of freezing mist.

[OOC: Ill have to wait till I get home to post pictures (oops), and make some dice throws, but you should all be able to post something now, even if you just chat]

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:15 pm**

"So, Mr. Allan, why do you suppose Elizabeth wanted us in particular on this little adventure of hers?" Caroline asks bemusedly as the two head into the New York Public Library.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:32 pm**

"Suddenly, I feel like I'm back in Russia again," Maksim says. "I'm expecting chekists at any moment to come ask for my papers. Do people really choose to live like this in the land of the free?" He shakes his head, confused. "I don't get a good feeling from this."

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:40 pm**

Timour looked from the drivers seat at the yard and the house, searching for anything out of place or possibly dangerous beyond the gun toting goons and their leashed-razorblades.

Instinctively he slid his pistol from under his armpit and concealed it on his lap while quietly chambering the first round and making sure the safety was on before returning the .45 automatic to its holster.

Maksim, from now on you drive, he said in Russian, I need to concentrate on our environment as much as possible.

He then got out of the car and said in English to Johnny and his brother, be ready for trouble.

Timour would remain quiet and alert throughout the meeting and their tour through the mansion. Diplomacy was for diplomats and his job was being ready when diplomacy failed.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:50 pm**

"I'm not quite sure, Mrs Ward." answers Thomas, as he pockets his car keys and lights another cigarette, after offering one to Caroline.

"How well do you know Elizabeth? Her friend is arriving in just a couple of days so we'll find out soon. I've got other things to take care of, but I admit feeling a bit of curiosity."

Thomas will work on getting information about the Carlyle expedition, while he suggests Caroline investigates the Carlyle family itself, more specifically Roger and Erica.

"Care to go for a drink afterwards?" Thomas also asks in an attempt to be friendly, understanding he may have to be social with Caroline for at least the few upcoming days.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 2:55 pm**

In the car ride to Prospero House Elizabeth put her arm through Andrei's and her head on his shoulder, going on and on about Egypt and Africa, and how exciting this adventure was surely going to be.

...

"Mr. Kensington, let me introduce my beau, Andrei Zatisov. I found him in France." She grins up at Andrei and turns to Mr. Kensington. "How's business? Any new books you could recommend?" Elizabeth will start a conversation, waiting for Kensington to invite them to come sit in his office before turning the conversation to Jackson, if he's had any new books, and what he's been up to recently.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 3:01 pm**

Maksim nods and slides behind the wheel. "If they ask what you've got," he says to Timour in Russian, "give it to them without a fuss."

"Good day," he says, attempting to sound as English as possible to the gate keepers. "I would like to see Erica Carlyle just for a few minutes, if that's at all possible." He flashes them his most disarming smile. "The name's Max Rook." If they ask to see his papers, he shrugs and says that Rook is merely short for Rukov, he wasn't trying to cause any trouble.

If they don't seem like they want to let him through, he'll attempt to persuade them.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 4:16 pm**

Outside Carlyle House, Westchester County, New York State
1:32pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

The gatekeepers each move to opposite sides of the Studebaker, one speaks to Maksim, the other stands around the back of the car, on the passenger side.

Miss Carlyle isnt expecting any visitors today, what is your business with her?

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 4:30 pm**

"I know a friend of a friend of the family," Maksim says, annoyed that Elizabeth didn't at least have the decency to call ahead and try to arrange something. She would have had a lot more clout over here than he did. Fancy sending a couple of foreignors to a military-type compound. Why didn't she tell him about this? Why didn't she give him any clue of what was going on here?

"A Miss Elizabeth Downing and a Mister Jackson?" he says, hoping either name will ring a bell. "I'm afraid they couldn't come down in person so they sent me in their stead. Couldn't I just get to see her for a little of her time? Perhaps even if I could speak to her over the telephone? I do have something I rather need to ask her."

He hopes they won't make his message seem too urgent. He'd been given no real message to pass on and didn't want to lie too much. Otherwise, even if he got in, she'd likely send him on her way.

If the guards continue to refuse to let him pass, he'll say that he is collaborating on a novel documenting the heroic and brilliant tales of interesting men like her brother, and if only he could speak to her to make sure he got some of the details correct. He would never want to do such an honorable man a disservice.

OOC: I'm going to bed now. If the guards still won't let him pass or even let him telephone her, he'll slink off sulkily, fresh out of ideas.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 5:53 pm**

"I've known Elizabeth for quite some time now," Caroline says. "And, please, call me Caroline. In any case, I'm not married, so no need to call me 'Mrs.'"

She declines the proferred cigarette. "It's no secret, I guess, that she helped sponsor me through the last years of my medical program. I'm still not sure how I came to her attention, but she and I became friends sometime after that.

"I don't recall meeting Jackson Elias before, and I really don't know anything more about what's going on than you do, I suspect.

"I think your plan of dividing up the work makes good sense. I'd also like to find out some more information about Elias as well, time permitting. ... And by the time we're done, I may need a drink, if only to clear the dust from my throat," she says ruefully.

Posted: **Thu Oct 26, 2006 8:23 pm**

On the way to Prospero House, Andrei tries to mirror Elizabeths excitement about the adventure. He almost gets caught up in the thought that this -will- be an adventure, but quickly dismisses it.

. . .

At the Prospero House, Andrei shakes Jonah's hand firmly and nods while Elizabeth introduces them. He is polite, if a little formal, and lets Elizabeth do most of the talking.

I wish I could sound as smooth as Ellie, he thinks while listening to her polite banter. A background in russian nobility doesn't always help in the modern streets of New York, but he is learning to act "cooler" every day.

Andrei lets Elizabeth bring up Jackson's message, but may ask a few questions, depending on what we find out.

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 1:47 pm**

Prospero House, New York
12:41pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

After showing Elizabeth and Andrei the latest books that Prospero have published there are only a few, as they are very small - Jonah invites them both to sit own at his deck at the back of the room:

Would you both like a coffee?

He smiles warmly as he pours the coffees, and continues, Tell me what really brings you both here, Im sure you havent travelled here in this cold weather just to take a look at my modest selection of new books.

Outside Carlyle House, Westchester County, New York State
1:32pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

The armed gatekeeper seems to take an instant dislike to the good looking Russian adventurer (hes obviously either jealous, or an insane cultist).

Look buddy, I dont know who your talking about, stop wasting my time trying to hustle your way in here.

Now get out of here now, or Im callin the cops!

Main Reading Room, New York Public Library
2:45pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

The Main Reading Room at the New York Public Library

Between the two of them, if takes Caroline and Thomas only a couple of hours to uncover a series of newspaper articles following the Carlyle expedition, from the initial surprise news of his imminent departure, to the aftermath of the Carlyle Expedition Massacre, and the trial of the perpetrators.

[OOC: Ill be posting the articles in the player handouts thread once everybody is back together, for now Ive just PMd them to Decrepit & warhammer]

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 2:07 pm**

"We've made a fair start, Mr. Allan," Caroline says, "but I think we could squeeze a bit more research in before meeting back up with the others.

"I'm assuming Elizabeth can tell us something about Hypatia Masters since they doubtless traveled in the same social circles. We could look for more information about Erica, as we'd planned to do, but as she wasn't there and there's no reason at this point to suspect she had anything to do with the deaths, it *might* be more useful to read up on Aubrey Penhew or maybe Jack Brady. I'm sure there's a good deal on the former, as Penhew was prominent. I'm less sure what we could find about Brady. We could also look into Elias, but there now seem more urgent things to do, and he is, after all, Elizabeth's friend, so he's probably an alright fellow."

Caroline smiles. "But I'm open to suggestions."

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 2:12 pm**

Timour scowls as the man's attitude suddenly turns hostile, he had hoped this would all go more smoothly and dreaded the thought of an hour drive back to the Downing estate to ask Elizabeth to make the proper arangements.

"Look my friend," he said turning on the charm, "there is no need for all that. We were sent here at the personal request of Elizabeth Downing. So please, just inform your employer that we are here and we'll be able to clear up this whole misunderstanding."

OOC Timour is trying to Persuade <crosses fingers> them now

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 2:13 pm**

"Coffee, sounds good." Elizabeth gladly accepts a cup. "Well, Mr. Kensington, to tell the truth, I'm here to ask you about Jackson. I can tell he doesn't have any new books out, since I'm sure you would have told me. Are there any in the works? He's always investigating such interesting things."

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 2:33 pm**

As hours pass and he is starting to learn more about the whole Carlyle affair, Thomas's interest in Elizabeth's request for assistance is quickly rising. From what he can read in the old newspapers, it appears as though the case was never really solved, and furthermore, the last articles he found seem to indicate random lives were sacrificed in a "mock-trial" whose sole aim was to protect the real perpetrators.

Thomas, having found a lot of information, carefully writes it all down on his own sheets of paper so that he can keep the articles for further use.

He walks up to Caroline and they share what they've learned.

"This bothers me more than a bit." he says to her after they shared their info. He is getting angry and has to struggle not to talk louder (being in a library, he has no choice but to whisper). "Obviously, we don't know what really happened and there are people out there with blood on their hands and a big smile on their face, just waiting for me to come and kick them in the a**. I'm all for getting on this case."

Thomas checks his watch and notices they still have time to do some research.

"I'm going to look up Aubrey Penhew myself." he adds. "How about you try Dr Huston? We can look up the rest later. I doubt we need to research Jackson Elias, when we can probably just ask Elizabeth."

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 3:53 pm**

"Yes, I suppose you're right about Elias," Caroline says, "though I do wish I knew a bit more about him. He's Elizabeth's friend, of course, but, well, Elizabeth is rather trusting, more so than I am.

"But I think your plan is better. I'll go research Huston. Maybe I can check out a copy of one of Elias's books. I could borrow one from Elizabeth, but I don't want her to know I'm checking up on him, as it were. At least not yet."

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 4:01 pm**

Outside Carlyle House, Westchester County, New York State
1:32pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

"Unbelievable!"

"That's it I'm calling the cops."

The gatekeeper walks back to the small 'lodge' outside the gate, ignoring any protests.

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 4:43 pm**

Maksim frowns, his initial enthusiasm sputtering out like a dying flame as he reverses the car and attempts to drive off.

"Well, that was a dead end, thanks to Elizabeth for not bothering to call ahead and use her contacts to get us an interview," he says, trying to remove the blame from himself.

Timour would likely recognise that Maksim has slumped into a mood of apathetic despair and that, if not roused from it, would lead to a very silent drive back to the apartment building. Whether that's a good or a bad thing, is entirely up to Timour...

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 5:25 pm**

imme wrote: Elizabeth gladly accepts a cup. "Well, Mr. Kensington, to tell the truth, I'm here to ask you about Jackson. I can tell he doesn't have any new books out, since I'm sure you would have told me. Are there any in the works? He's always investigating such interesting things."

Andrei smiles pleasantly and slides down comfortably in his chair, listening and sipping coffee. He tries not to make eye contact with the publisher, quickly glancing across at Elizabeth if Jonah looks at him. People are sometimes discomfitted by his bright blue eyes.

Three things Andrei has learned from high-class social situations all his life.

1) If he looks comfortable, other people become more comfortable.
2) If he looks smaller (i.e. low in a chair), people aren't as intimidated by him. Sometimes they might even ignore him.
3) When you need to convince a man, let a lady do the talking.

Andrei waits to hear the publisher's answer, while studying the publisher's reactions. He may pipe up later in the conversation.

[OOC: If necessary, these actions are like using "Persuade" and "Psychology to look less intimidating, and to put the focus on Elizabeth while he observes. These things come naturally to him, he's barely conscious that he's doing it.]

Posted: **Fri Oct 27, 2006 7:29 pm**

Timour did his best to help his brother fight off his darkening mood but such interactions were never his strong point. As a creature of passion he didn't try to understand people anymore than he cared if they understood him.

His brother though was a special case, one of the few people close to him and one of the very few he truly cared for. Assuming his bestest and broadest of smile, he nudged his brother's arm, "that guard was just jealous of us. Later on, we'll find out his name, look him up in the directory and trash his house while he's at work," then Timour added a wink to show Maksim that he was being only a little bit serious.

OCC psychology I'm guessing...

Posted: **Sat Oct 28, 2006 4:02 am**

Maksim arches an eyebrow and slouches down in his seat. He's got that intense look in his eye that means he's thinking a little too long and hard about that criminal prospect. "That's one way of getting some cash. We're broke. No money at all after that club. If we want this job, we'll need to be more than a little less homeless. But then, that man does have a very big gun."

Posted: **Sat Oct 28, 2006 11:40 pm**

Prospero House Lexington Avenue, New York
1:00pm - Tuesday 13th January 1925

Jonah sits thoughtfully sipping his coffee, as if making his mind up what to say to Elizabeth. Eventually he says, Erm, yes, Jackson is working on a new project. Hes been travelling extensively, researching some new death cult, you know how he likes to debunk such things.

I havent heard from him very often recently, you know how secretive he can be, though he did get in touch just last month. He was in London and his wire said that hed be back in New York this month. Im expecting to see him any day.

Main Reading Room, New York Public Library
5:00pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Thomas and Caroline spent another productive two hours searching through the librarys records for information about Aubrey Penhew, and Robert Huston. They discover that the fashionable New York psychyologist Dr Huston received extensive coverage in the society pages of New York newspapers, while Sir Aubrey has had a biography written about his life,. Caroline also manages to pick up a copy of Jackson Elias most famous book Sons of Death.

[OOC: Note that I wrote Robert Huston instead of Aubrey Penhew in Thomas' dice roll by mistake]

On the road Westchester County, New York State.
1:45pm - Tuesday 13th January 1925

Unfortunately the driving conditions havent improved, so it looks like the drive back into New York will take just as long as the wasted drive out to Carlyle House.

[OOC: No need to make rolls for everything, just roleplay as you see fit when interacting with the other player characters, if youd like to roll now and then as an aid, then feel free

]

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 12:34 am**

"Ah, that would explain it." Elizabeth looks relieved. "You see, I got a telegram from him yesterday, saying that he would be in town on Thursday and would like my help. He must be hoping that I can help him with a bit of research or put him in contact with someone. I was worried that he had gotten himself into some kind of trouble. You never know, what with all the crazy people he investigates." She leans back in her chair, smiles at Andrei to share her relief with him. Abruptly she sits forward again and turns to Mr. Kensington, as if struck by a new thought. "I don't suppose it would be helpful, perhaps, for you to fill me in on Jackson's recent investigation, so that I'll be briefed for his arrival?"

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 12:40 am**

Timour looked at Maksim and noticed his brother's mood had not improved. Talk about being short on funds and their failed attempt at the Carlyle estate hadn't done anything more than sink him deeper into his funk.

"Excuse me," he apologized to Elizabeth's bodyguard, "but I have to speak with my brother in our native tongue for a moment."

It wasn't so much that he didn't trust Johnny, it was just that conversations about family and money were a deeply private things to Timour.

Then to Maksim he said in Russian, "how much money do you think this lady will pay us? She has at least three servants along with her and Andrei is likely living the high life on her tab. Do you think we'll make enough to get Tatiana and Yula away from the motherland?"

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 1:21 am**

"This Huston is a fellow alum," Caroline says to Thomas. "Lived quite a scandalous life, I gather, which means Elizabeth might know something about him." She smirks a bit. "Not that I think Elizabeth is scandalous, mind you, Mr. Allan.

Rubbing her brow tiredly, she asks, "How about that drink now?"

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 3:46 am**

Johnny leans back in his seat and stares out the window. He didn't rouse himself for the approach to the mansion.

"Getting an introduction may be a good idea the next time we go," his voice is pitched low, and neutrally.

This was a more fruitful trip than I thought it would be," Johnny's mind skips about "No heiress I know has guards with tommy guns. They're something fishy about this broad.

During the ride back Johnny periodically pulls out his shiny silver cigarette case and fiddles with it. A casual glance back might catch him examining his reflection in it.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 5:36 am**

Andrei keeps smiling politely, sipping coffee, and listening. The conversation is between the publisher and Elizabeth, and for the moment he is content to listen and observe.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 12:38 pm**

Thomas writes down all he finds on Sir Aubrey Penhew.

"I've researched Penhew thoroughly." he says to Caroline. "But I've not found much about him that would interest us, I mainly found generic biographies and the likes, you know. He was a rich dog, he set up his own foundation and apparently did much for archeology, and egyptology more specifically."

"But as you can tell, the man himself remains a mystery, so I got nothing juicy on him... for now."

Thomas finishes his cigarette butt and quickly packs all his things.

"I've got a bottle of scotch waiting at home." he says. "I'm gonna have one, you can join in if you'd like. You can tell all of us about Dr Huston later on, let's have a break first."

Thomas will also call his associate at the office and tell him to take care of business for him for the next couple of days, as the case turns out to be more interesting than he had expected.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 1:03 pm**

Maksim sighs and looks even more annoyed. "Doubtful she'll pay us more than the pittance she pays her servants. You remember what father's like? She has money because she doesn't pay her people well enough. I doubt we'll have enough to get anyone out of the old country. You forget, we are her servants now, and if we ask for too much, she will merely find new servants."

"Have no doubt that we will likely be earning our keep and barely more than that, particularly if we go to any other country. Travel expenses alone will be exceptionally high."

Having finished his pessimistic rant, Maksim hunches up his shoulders and scowls at the road.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 4:16 pm**

Timour nodded at the logic behind both Maksim's and Johnny's remarks. But he didn't hold himself accountable. His job was to bring his gun, and he had

"I'm hungry," he said at length, "let's get back so we can get something to eat."

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 4:27 pm**

Thomas wrote: "I've got a bottle of scotch waiting at home." he says. "I'm gonna have one, you can join in if you'd like. You can tell all of us about Dr Huston later on, let's have a break first."

"I think I'll just start with a glass of scotch first, and see where that leads," Caroline says teasingly.

She didn't make it a habit to drink in a strange man's residence, but she didn't usually spend the day hanging around dusty stacks with a strange man, either. Maybe Elizabeth's influence was rubbing off on her.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 9:20 pm**

Thomas drives back to his flat with Caroline and chats with her while drinking some scotch and listening to one of his records. Thomas seems to have a good tolerance for alcohol, although he stops drinking before he gets drunk. He is polite and friendly all throughout the afternoon, although he does not reveal all that much about himself. Being a lawyer taught him to be careful about his brash instincts, and he makes sure not to confide in people too easily. Caroline probably gets the feeling that, while he seems like a nice person, it takes a while to gain his trust and get close to him.

When the time comes, Thomas will drive to Elizabeth's place and join the others for the meeting.

Posted: **Sun Oct 29, 2006 10:50 pm**

I'm not sure whether what we learned was of all that much use, Caroline thinks to herself, but it was an interesting day. Thomas, as she had finally come to call him, seemed like a decent sort, although he hardly seemed to open up, even with the consumption of alcohol. Caroline herself didn't say a great deal, either, although she could feel the scotch starting to unloosen her tongue a bit. It was just as well that the time with Thomas had ended when it did, for she knew from experience that she tended toward the moody when drinking, and she didn't do that often enough to be very tolerant of it.

And she had some reason to be moody. It seemed that Carlyle kept some odd company, if Huston was in the mixture, and the way the expedition had ended cast something of a pall over the present investigation, no matter how much Elizabeth's bounciness sought to lift it.

Caroline would meet up with Elizabeth and the others when the time came. In her spare moments, she hoped to begin reading--or at least skimming--Elias's book.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 12:29 am**

Johnny snaps his cigarette case closed and leans foward.

"Gentlemen," his speech is more rapid, perhaps tenser, than usual "it appears we have roused an unfortunate degree of interest in our counterparts. We are being followed."

"I hope you understand why I feel it is necessary for us to lose our tail promptly."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 1:28 am**

OOC: In case I get busy in the next 24ish hours I just wanted to give some info so the game isn't slowed down.

Johnny would accept other alternatives to losing the tail such as driving off into some neighborhood with no connection to the group, spending some time driving around in the ice and the snow to see how aggressive thetail-ers are, or even trying to do a switchback and get a good look at who's following them (license plates?).

He won't suggest any of that himself, but he'll go along and assist as he can.

He -will- be strongly opposed to leading the tail to the Downings, or to Miss D.'s NY apartment. He thinks some other place connected to the Russians would be dumb but if that's what people want to do he'll make a single ,studiously neutral, comment on how it might be "inadvisable" and leave it at that.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 2:02 am**

Prospero House Lexington Avenue, New York
1:00pm - Tuesday 13th January 1925

Hearing what Elizabeth says, Jonah looks quite concerned, Unfortunately I think your fears may be correct. Jacksons last Telegram seemed quite excitable, and hes been out of touch for quite some time.

I really cant tell you to much about what hes working on without consulting him first, but it concerns that Carlyle Expedition that disappeared in Kenya five or six years ago. Jackson is convinced that there was a cover up, and that the massacre involved a death cult. He often been right about these things in the past, but this time hes become quite obsessed.

He thinks that the real perpetrators escaped justice; not only that, but he is also convinced that some or all of the expedition principles are still alive. It all seems quite extraordinary to me, and Ill afraid that each time Jackson gets in touch with me his obsession and paranoia seems to be getting worse.

Jonah stops for a second and shakes his head, Im quite sure that his involving you in this is all a mistake Ellie. Once you meet him youll see that his work with all of these dangerous cults has just become too much for him.

On the road Westchester County, New York State.
1:55pm - Tuesday 13th January 1925

Looking in the rear view mirror of his touring car Maksim sees that Johnny is correct; a black Ford is keeping a discrete distance, but is definitely following them. There are at least four men in the Ford.

EDIT: I had thought that Timour was driving again, but I've corrected my post now, thanks What.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 2:19 am**

"Pull over and see what they do," scoffs Timour in English. "It's likely just some of those fat guards we ran into at the Carlyle place, or even more likely policemen come to see what we're up to. If they really want to be our friends so badly then let's stop and get to know them better."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 2:20 am**

Raiko wrote: Jonah stops for a second and shakes his head, Im quite sure that his involving you in this is all a mistake Ellie. Once you meet him youll see that his work with all of these dangerous cults has just become too much for him.

Andrei clears his throat and leans forward, entering the circle of the conversaton. In his best English, he says:

"I must say, sir, that I have the same concerns. If we're going to enter an agreement with Mr. Jackson, we should do so with caution. The last thing I want is for people to get hurt, especially you." He gives Elizabeth a warm look.

"Mr. Kensington, already we're indebted to you for providing us with this information. Thank you kindly for your help. I wonder, do you still have the latest telegrams from Mr. Jackson? Anything that might help us decide what to do would be helpful."

(If Jonah looks like he's going to decline, Andrei says):

"I'd hate to join Mr. Jackson on his adventure, and have someone get hurt because of it. We're both excited about the prospect of adventure, but..."

[OC: I know persuade is a longterm skill, but I'll try to sound/act as honest, innocent, and forthcoming as possible.]

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 3:51 am**

Maksim gets an evil look in his eye, partly since his memories of machine guns and Russia makes him loathe to stop a car when followed by the heavily armed, and partly because he's in an extremely bad mood.

He'll attempt a boot legger's turn, even on the ice, to see exactly what the others are in possession of, their license plate for their dear friend, and also to startle the bastards. If they look likely to play chicken with his car, he'll attempt to turn into the nearest street or driveway and let the others pass, hopefully with the enemy at high speeds, and then either reverse out of the driveway and head the opposite way, or continue on down the street.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 5:07 am**

Elizabeth is no longer smiling, and looks genuinely concerned. She lets Andrei take over the conversation.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 10:00 am**

On the road Westchester County, New York State.
1:55pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Accelerating a little to ensure that he has enough speed to pull off his planned stunt, Maksim waits for a convenient bend in the road to mask him from the tailing Ford for a few seconds. Pulling on the handbrake and wrenching the wheel around, Maksim attempts to fling the big touring car though a daring bootleg-reverse; but although he brings the car around he looses control of the turn, leaving the Studebaker sliding dangerously backwards toward a lamppost...

Luckily Maksim brings the car to a halt with inches to spare, his pride the only thing that is damaged. As the pursuing Ford comes around the corner, Maksim wrenches the Studebaker back into gear and drives straight at it. The driver of the Ford is in no mood to play chicken and his car mounts the sidewalk to avoid the Studebaker, as it roars past.

Breathing a sign of relief Maksim is too busy watching the road to get a good look at the other car, but Timour and Johnny get a glimpse of a very big bald-headed man in the passenger seat, and two guys with pump-action shotguns in the back.

Regaining the road the Ford roars away round the next bend, their cover blown.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 10:06 am**

Maksim lets out a whoop and grins confidantly at Johnny in the rear-view mirror. "This is what I'm good for," he says brightly. "Wonder why they wanted to follow us for? Is that woman well-guarded or is she just well-kept? It makes me wonder ... but then, maybe I am thinking too much like what the American magazines think of as a Soviet."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 11:12 am**

Johnnys shocked expression greets Maksims gaze as the Russian glances back through the mirror. After a long pause the Chinese man looks away, releases his deathgrip on the door and begins retrieving his hat and cane from where they were cast to the floorboards by the sudden automotive acrobatics. When his face returns into view he seems to be fighting to keep the sides of his mouth from turning up.

It certainly does seem like the young lady Carlyle is protected by a rather improbably impressive and aggressive security force. Why, I can not imagine, Johnny seems to be struggling a bit to keep his normal level tone of voice.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 11:21 am**

"Well, whatever the case, that was a fun ride and I hope to do it again," says Maksim. "I am suddenly and deeply in love with Lizzie darling for putting us on this case. This is going to be so much fun. I mean, machine guns, being tailed, that lovely lady doctor..." He casts a long, sideways look at Timour. "That Doctor Caroline Ward whose heart I will no doubt soon win."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 1:46 pm**

"I apologize for my brother's driving Mr. Johnny," says Timour after failing to recall the bodyguard's surname. "Sometimes he forgets he's not flying a bi-plane any longer and thinks the laws of physics between cars and aircraft are the exact same."

"And as for your fascination with this doctor woman," he says to Maksim in Russian, "I would forget about it. Smart women are more troublesome than they are worth. You should come with me to the bar where we can find some dynamite dames that won't require any more effort than a refill on their drinks."

"So," Timour breaths once more in English, "let's get back to the city, the others will be wondering where we got to and now I'm five more minutes away from getting some food in me."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 3:56 pm**

"You never understood the value of a good stunt," Maksim says with a teasing smile. "And Johnny, if I were really the show off he thinks I am, I would attempt to drift around this corner instead of slowing down and turning gently. I've got more sense than that though I can't say I'm tempted. Besides, I saw that half-smile. I bet you loved it."

"And what's the point of an easy time with a girl? People were made to be complicated. Life was made to be complicated. Pretending that it isn't is an attempt to live a boring, half-lived life. The good doctor's got my interest hooked on more levels than one. I'm damn sure she'll drag me through the cobblestones just to see what'll happen and to tell you the truth, I'll be disappointed if she doesn't."

"And what is with your obssession with food and pub drinks, Timour? At this rate, you won't be finding a dynamite dame anywhere because you'll be too large to fit through one of the doors."

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 4:28 pm**

Prospero House Lexington Avenue, New York
1:01pm - Tuesday 13th January 1925

Of course you are right.

Jonah stands up and calls across the office to his secretary, Mary! Please could you fetch the Elias correspondence file!

A minute or so later Jonahs attractive young assistant walks over carrying a large box file, which she places on his desk.

Thank you Mary, Kensington opens the file and takes out a neatly handwritten letter, which he passes to Elizabeth. This is the first correspondence that I received from Jackson regarding his new project, although I had spoken to him before he departed. As you can see the letter was sent from Kenya.

I received his notes through the mail as promised, he takes several sets of neatly bound handwritten notes from the folder, and places them all on the table, and then a wire from Hong Kong requesting the advance. I sent it immediately of course.

Opening the bound notes, Elizabeth and Andrei see that they contain extensive notes taken by Jackson during his time in Kenya. They appear quite detailed and would take a while to read through.

Then that was it, I didnt hear another thing until this rather excitable wire arrived from London in the middle of last month, Jonah passes the telegram to Elizabeth.

I didnt know quite what to make of it, but as it turned out that wasnt the worst of it, just this morning I received another package, this time containing a second set of notes. I dont really like to show them to anyone, but since youre a good friend of Jacksons, and hes asked for your help I suppose that I should show you. But you must promise not to let anyone know the state of poor Jacksons mind.

Jonah hands Elizabeth the second set of notes, these couldnt be more different to the first set. There are at least a hundred loosely bound, tattered pieces of handwritten paper. Opening them up and looking inside Elizabeth and Andrei see that they are clearly written by the hand of a madman. The scrawled handwriting appears to be totally unreadable, although on clearer examination the crazy handwriting does indeed share enough features to suggest that it was written by the same hand as the letter from Nairobi. It would take hours to make any sense at all of the scribbled notes, and would no doubt cause the reader a serious headache.

You are welcome to take a look through both sets of notes, and make of them as you will, but I cant leave them unattended and I have to leave the office soon, perhaps you could return tomorrow to look through them at your leisure? Although I doubt that anyone could make any sense of the second set.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 4:31 pm**

"Nyet," beams Timour smacking his belly loudly, "I eat and drink all I want and my meta-bol-ilism(he stutters trying to pronounce this one) takes care of everything!"

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 5:11 pm**

Maksim snorts. "Then why is it that the car tilts when you are in it and only manages to right itself when you leave, hmm? You think it's only muscle but I'll bet you're hiding a rather curved belly..." He switches to Russian. "So I take it you aren't interested in either Elizabeth or Caroline Ward? How rather dull of you!"

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 5:16 pm**

Timour laughs uproariously and merely winks at his brother. Thinking it best to keep the young lad guessing for now.

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 6:10 pm**

Andrei silently sifts through the notes, first reading the two letters, then shuffling through the rest of the papers. As he reaches the most recent documents, his forehead creases with lines of concern. Tingles of excitement run up his spine.

If this Jackson man isn't mad... well, he IS mad, there's no doubt about that.

He glances at Eizabeth, trying to read her reaction.

"Mr. Kensington, you're quite right. Something is not right here. We're going to meet with Mr. Elias in a few days, and.." Andrei's mind is spinning, he looks back down at the papers.

"..And yes, perhaps we could come back tomorrow? I think it would be... (Andrei looks for the right word) ...negligent... for us to agree to anything without reading through these papers."

He helps put the papers back in the file, and dons his hat while Elizabeth and the publisher exchange goodbyes. He shakes Jonas' hand firmly and thanks him again.

...

Once outside, he hails a cab and follows Elizabeth inside.

"Eliie, how well did you.. do you.. know this man, Jackson? How did you meet him?"

After reading the letter, Andrei is almost certain Jackson wants money from the Downing family, but these thoughts are eclipsed by his curiousity about this strange man and his recent adventures.

It's starting to feel like a big dark pool, that you can jump into and get lost in, or stay away from and forget about. Andrei is undecided, and will wait and see who else wants to jump.

[OC: Elizabeth should still feel free to ask more questions, I wanted to get us on the road just in case, though...]

Posted: **Mon Oct 30, 2006 6:14 pm**

Andrei also asks Elizabeth,

"Lets please wait until after dinner to discuss our findings with the others. I would hate to disturb your parents with talk of Death-Cults and madness."

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 12:53 am**

As Elizabeth looks through the papers, a crease appears between her brows and her lips form an uncharacteristic frown. From these notes, it sounds like Jackson's onto something huge, far bigger than anything he's uncovered before. And far more dangerous ...

Elizabeth merely nods agreement when Andrei suggests that they return tomorrow. As she is taking her leave she says, "Thank you so much for your help, Mr. Kensington. We must see what we can do for Jackson when he arrives."

...

Once inside the cab, Elizabeth leans on Andrei again, this time in a much less jovial manner. "I'm so worried for Jackson. That second set of notes were so unlike him. He's normally such a careful, thorough researcher. I can't remember how I met him, must have been at some party, but I've known him for quite awhile. His work has always interested me, how he carefully and skeptically works to uncover death cults. It's hard to believe that there's a 'massive worldwide conspiracy' behind the Carlyle expedition, but I can't imagine Jackson making that claim if he wasn't convinced of it by ample evidence."

She sighs and turns to look out the window. "I must admit, when I received his telegram all I thought of was adventures in exotic locations and exciting mysteries to be solved. It didn't occur to me that serious issues and possible danger would be involved. I only said that to Mr. Kensington to see what he knew. If what Jackson's saying is true, it must be dealt with, and will not be easy, I imagine." She turns back to Andrei. "Yes, let's wait until after dinner to discuss this with everyone. I wouldn't want my parents to worry. Now how about we go get some lunch?"

Elizabeth will be subdued during lunch and while they prepare to leave for her estate. She will steer the conversation away from anything related to Jackson or his mystery, although her mind seems to be still processing what she's learned.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:43 am**

Andrei falls silent in the cab, chewing his lip, thinking about what Elizabeth said.

Skeptic? This guy is a careful researcher and a skeptic, and he's talking about a worldwide conspiracy?

He looks out the opposite window, his hand on Ellie's lap.

Now I HOPE the poor guy has gone mad. Worldwide conspiracy?

His mind reels, trying to imagine what a 'worldwide conspiracy' could even be about. High-up political spies or something? What would that have to do with this Carlyle Expedition?

Throughout lunch, and the train ride to the Downing Manor, Andrei is also silent and thoughtful.

He tries to cheer up the mood by saying things like: "I can't wait to see the looks on the others' faces when we tell them!" and "You know, Ellie, no one can force us to do something if its too dangerous. Lets not get too worried yet."

"And lets not jump into this without getting all the facts and having a serious talk with Mr. Jackson Elias."

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 10:58 am**

Downing House Long Island, New York
8:00pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

It is another clear and frosty winter evening in Long Island. Outside Downing House the icy waters of Long Island Sound lap against the shore, while inside in the warm candlelit dining hall the staff have now made their final preparations for the evening meal of Miss Elizabeth and her unusual mixture of guests.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 11:13 am**

Maksim parks the car somewhere both convenient and expected, checks his hair in the rear-view mirror and straightens his tie. His pulse is beating a little too fast, his palms are a little sweaty and his lips seem far too dry. He wished he had something to drink but without the pay check that would likely be rather poor, he had nothing to buy with. That was the largely unfortunate thing. Particularly since he had nothing good to report. If they were being paid on a basis of successed, he was screwed. If they were being paid weekly, with no down payment, they were screwed.

He wipes his hands on his trousers, straightens his hat, fiddles with his tie. He had to look professional, damnit. He had to seem respectable. If he looked half as anxious as he felt, he wouldn't be able to make any headway wooing Doctor Ward, let alone impress Elizabeth.

He feels a little woozy but manages to do a damn good job hiding it. No one will notice how fragile he feels inside as he projects the aura of the suave, cool and collected professional.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 12:31 pm**

Thomas drives to Long Island with Caroline on board. He is anxious to get there and learn about everyone's discoveries, even though he does not show it. He doesn't ask Caroline what she knows about Dr Huston, and doesn't reveal the little he knows about Penhew either, willing to keep a few cards up his sleeve for now. Although he is fully aware his search on Penhew was successful but not particularly interesting, which made him slightly annoyed: he would have preferred to be able to be the last person to speak after dinner and make a shocking revelation. Next time, old pal. he thinks to himself.

During the drive, he asks Caroline a few questions about her job, and whether she had heard of Dr Huston before. He suggests her status as a Doctor might make it easier to learn more about Huston's secrets, for example by asking former colleagues.

Once he arrives at Long Island, he knocks on the door and, unless Elizabeth has already arrived, introduces himself to the staff and enters. He will have a smoke and a glass of scotch if this is offered to him.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:07 pm**

Timour struts up to the door with little in the way of self-consciousness, his brother matching his step as they both try to be the first at the house.

"Howdy, my good man," hollers Timour before dropping his coat on the outstretched arm of the doorman, "I certainly hope they've made enough to eat!"

In Russian he shouts back at the nearby Maksim as Timour scrambles first through the door, "keep up you skinny mama's-boy or I'll get all the women and wine for myself!"

OOC- possibly Andrei heard his boasting too

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:26 pm**

Maksim gives an apologetic nod to the doorman, tips his hat and passes him his own coat. "Careful, brother, or you'll over-balance and tip over," he says to his brother, patting his shoulder. "You have to remember all that food you eat..."

He casts about for either Doctor Ward, Elizabeth or Andrei, or perhaps any other interesting sort of person to speak with.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:33 pm**

Thomas notices the loud arrival of the Russian brothers.

"You look a bit excited don'tcha? ... Maksim and Timour, was that it?" he asks. "I take it your day was eventful. By the way, mind your manners, lest you get thrown out of here for being obnoxious."

Thomas was amused rather than shocked at the twins' behaviour, yet he did not show his amusement and simply felt the need to test them. Since he was possibly going to have to team up with them for a few days or even more, he wanted to see how they'd react at a slight provocation.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:41 pm**

Timour overeager brushed passed Thomas and broke into an almost full out run in an attempt to beat his brother to the dining and sitting rooms.

At the last moment he spots a woman in a white and black uniform holding a tray of empty drinking glasses coming out of an adjoined room. She wasn't watching anything but her step so it fell to the brash Russian to save them from an impending collision.

Straightening he threw his arms out for balance and began sliding along the highly polished hallway floor.

"Excuse me," he said apologetically as he whizzed by the serving woman, narrowliy avoiding her by an inch or two at the most and skated to a halt right in front of the gathered members of the party as they stood, sat and mingled freely.

Upon seeing his odd enterance they stopped talking and stared at him in surprise.

Timour grinned as dashingly as he could manage and tapped his foot on the hardwood floor, "whoever polishes these should get a raise."

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:41 pm**

OOC: As if my last roll wasn't good enough to suffice for this interaction. 8)

Maksim gives him a confidant smile and extends his hand. "Good to see you again, sir. If I seem a little rushed, it is merely because I barely survived losing one of the woman's guards, potentially armed with a machine gun, who followed me from her house. I had to pull a few interesting moves and it certainly got my blood racing. If you'll forgive my rude behaviour, I figured that considering the risks I've taken, I had a right to relax a little. Of course, if you find that too discomforting, I can assure you, I will be at my most professional at all times and leave the friendly chit chat to a later date."

Maksim continues to smile coolly and behaves with as much grace as he can muster in the next few interactions.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 1:57 pm**

Thomas shakes Maksim's hand and offers a cigarette.

"That's okay with me", Thomas says, curious about the story he just heard but not willing to show it too much. "Just reminding you that we're in a social circle that both you and I are unusued to. It looks like we'll have material for a good conversation after dinner, then. I found some old newspapers that will undoubtedly interest everyone."

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:01 pm**

Timour, his adrenaline pumping and heart racing walks slowly back over to Thomas and clasps the man's hand warmly and offers him a cuban cigar, "Timour Rukov," he says by way of greeting. "Mr. Thomas Allan, correct? Very good to see you again. Now tell me, Thomas, do you know what they're serving tonight?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:39 pm**

Thomas accepts the handshake and the cigar.

"Caviar and roasted duck." he shrugs in answer with a faint smile, indicating he has no idea.

He did not know what to think of the twins yet, and therefore avoided giving too much away about himself. Instead he chose to politely chat and joke around.

"I wonder what's keeping Elizabeth?"

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:40 pm**

Elizabeth enters the sitting room where everyone has been gathered, wearing a beautiful gown and on the arm of a well-dressed Andrei. "I see everyone has arrived; dinner is almost ready. We have had quite an informative day, I suspect some of you may have as well, but let's wait to discuss these matters until we have finished eating. I would rather not worry my parents, and I'm sure it wouldn't be good for digestion anyway." She grins. "If you would follow me into the dining room, you may meet my parents and then dinner will be served."

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:52 pm**

Caroline rubs her temples gently. It's been a long day already, and the slight scotch-induced fog that had descended over her mind has begun to lift, adding a further touch of surrealness to the evening.

In the car on the way here, she'd answered Thomas's inquiries rather noncommitally but honestly. She'd never meet Huston--he was significantly older than she, so it would have shared any classes as Johns Hopkins--but she'd agreed with Thomas that her background as a medical doctor and as something of a student of psycho-analysis would probably help her learn more about him. Huston was certainly a colorful character, and more than a bit of an odd one to take on such an expedition.

When Caroline sees Elizabeth, a smile returns to her face. Whatever she'd learned, it hadn't diminished her sense of fashion. Caroline herself didn't have all that much exciting to add, and she didn't think Thomas did, either, but the Rukov brothers seemed agitated. Maybe this was just normal for them? Time would tell, she supposed.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 3:34 pm**

Downing House Long Island, New York
8:00pm to 10:00pm Tuesday 13th January 1925

Remarkably Thomas guessed almost right; after a dish of tortue claire (turtle soup), Elizabeth and her guests are treated to a confit of wild salmon with crab and tomato consommé and Oscietra caviar, followed by the main course: spiced duck with braised pak choi and pineapple tatin, garlic and cardamom sauce.

Desert is in the form of a selection of fine pastries. There is plenty of wine to go around, despite prohibition, including bottles of Château Tourcas (1914) and Schloss Bärkenheimer Reisling (1919). Cups of rich coffee complete the meal.

Finally by 10pm the older Downings retire for the evening, allowing Elizabeth and her friends to discuss the day's events.

Posted: **Tue Oct 31, 2006 8:27 pm**

Andrei is characteristically silent during dinner; he chuckles at jokes, and makes idle small talk. He asks the Downing parents questions and makes sure they're part of the conversation. It's probably obvious to everyone (except the parents) that he's eager to finish dinner and talk amongst the group.

Many of the guests will look at Andrei and see that he's been observing them. He smiles and quickly glances away.

. . .

After dinner in the sitting room, Andrei is smoking in a large comfortable chair. He silently reads the copied notes and telegrams as they're passed around. Once everyone has read all the notes, he clears his throat and speaks in a low voice:

"There's more manuscripts from Jackson Elias at the publishers. They'll take a while to look through, but the more recent notes look... erratic. Ellie says that Mr. Elias is a thorough researcher, and generally skeptical about conspiracies and the like."

He lets the group draw their own conclusions from this. With everyone's eyes on him, Andrei sinks a little lower in his chair.

"At this point, I want to at least meet Mr. Elias - but I think it would be irresponsible to promise anything until we determine his... state of mind."

"I apologize, I'm getting ahead of myself. Lets go through what everyone learned, then try to come to some conclusions together."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 1:44 am**

Johnny Post 5

Johnny followed the brothers Rukov up to the house but slipped in the side door. He when directly to the privacy of his room, where he spent a few minutes cleaning and checking the pistol he received from Mr. Downing when he was originally employed.

Looks like I may actually have to use it at some point.

He doesn't load it, though he replaces the bullets he's been carrying around in his pouch for a year now with fresh ones.

Johnny rejoins the group just in time for Elizabeth to make her grand entrance with Andrei and joins everyone for dinner. His attempt to slip off after the duck was was foiled by a probing question from Mr. Downing concerning the relative climates of Paris and New York. His second attempt, timed to occur when the coffee was brought around, would almost certainly have been successful but Mr. Downing's suddenly inquiry regarding whether the end of his cane hadn't gotten worn down, prompted another lengthy, and unavoidable, discussion.

Johnny seems disinclined to leave once the Downings have retired however, rolling and re-rolling a cigarette on a small table, slightly outside the circle of chairs and sofas where the group is seated. He watches speakers unblinkly as they speak, only looking away if they return his gaze.

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 3:04 am**

"I'm afraid Mr. Allan--Thomas--and I found only some basic information about the Carlyle Expedition," Caroline says. "Mainly just what we've all seen in the papers--that the expedition went to Egypt by way of London, then went to Africa, where they went missing after leaving Nairobi. There's some question as to what they were doing outside Nairobi, with the wilder stories suggesting they were looking for Biblical treasure.

"Erica helped lead the search for her brother's group, but the expedition was found dead. The authorities hanged the tribesmen killers, thank God. A ghastly business.

"In any case, it seems Roger was keeping rather odd company, shall we say? One of the expedition members was Robert Huston, the psychologist. Did you perchance know him, Elizabeth? He traveled in fashionable circles, I gather."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 3:46 am**

"In any case, it seems Roger was keeping rather odd company, shall we say? One of the expedition members was Robert Huston, the psychologist. Did you perchance know him, Elizabeth? He traveled in fashionable circles, I gather."

"I've heard of him," Elizabeth says, "but have never met him myself. He was quite a fashionable psychologist, so I could probably find someone who consulted him if I asked around. I had met Hypatia a couple times. She was the heiress to a large fortune and an accomplished photographer. I remember going to one of her exhibitions and being impressed by her work. Her close friend, Olivia de Bernardesta, can often be seen at nightclubs in Manhattan."

"If Jackson is right, and there was a death cult involved in the massacre of the expedition, this mystery would be interesting enough. However, he also claims that there is a conspiracy to protect the true murderers, in which case the hanged tribesman were just scapegoats and there are dangerous men still free. His last claim is, I think, the most amazing. Members of the expedition still alive! That would be incredible. Where have they been all these years?"

She turns to the Rukov twins. "These newspaper clippings report that Erica worked very hard to discover what happened to her brother. I'm sure she'd be interested in what Jackson has uncovered. Were you able to meet with her?"

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 4:02 am**

Maksim leans back in his chair, crosses his arms over his chest and smiles thoughtfully. "No. Her highly armed guards kept us from seeing her. As we attempted to leave, Johnny noticed we were being followed." He flashes a grateful smile at Johnny. "A few rapid moves on my part and we managed to leave them behind. I don't know if Johnny or Timour noticed any details about the person or the car. I was far too busy trying to lose them while driving in such bad weather. I was successful, that's all I know."

"Perhaps from now on when we try to speak with Erica or anyone like her, I should drive."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 4:26 am**

"Armed guards? That's not normal, is it? What do you suppose Mrs. Carlyle has to be afraid of?"

Andrei picks up Jackson Elias' final telegraph and reads it aloud again for everyone:

"Seen unbelievable terrible things. It is a monstrous worldwide conspiracy. Must be stopped, they have a timetable."

He paused for a second and lets the ominous words sink in.

"These are the words I can't stop thinking about. What do you all think of it? I can't stop wondering if Mr. Elias has gone crazy. And if he hasn't..." Andrei stops and rubs his face with both hands, like he's overtired.

"This might sound silly, but lets all assume we're getting into something very dangerous for a minute. What would you think of that?" He looks at everyone in the room, including Johnny in the back.

"This is what I wonder: when is the last opportunity we have to turn around? To stop and say 'I don't want to be part of this.' I don't think we're.. stuck in it yet, but the more information we get, the harder it might be to step away from this mystery. We should all think carefully about that."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 4:50 am**

"It's unwise to diagnose a person I've never met, but I'm inclined to think Erica might be afraid, maybe even afraid that what happened to Roger might happen to her." Caroline pauses.

"That would seem ... incredible. But given how even a solid researcher such as Elias has been shaken merely by his study of the expedition, it's no wonder that Erica, who was connected far more closely, is suffering from paranoia herself. Really, that must be all it is.

"I mean, what's happened to Elias and to Erica is lamentable, but at least in Elias's case it sounds just like illness. The mind is a mysterious organ that we've only seriously begun to learn about. It's possible to convince oneself of almost anything--we do know that."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 5:12 am**

"But what if Jackson's right? What if there is a conspiracy to cover up the massacre? Suppose Erica stumbled across something she wasn't supposed to know and now she's been taken prisoner in her own house?" Elizabeth pauses and looks around sheepishly. "Sorry, my imagination runs away with me sometimes. However, I'm not yet ready believe that Jackson has gone mad. He is much too strong and skeptical to get carried away by silly fantasies. You can tell by his books that he is thorough in his work to investigate death cults. And as I've known him for many years, I can attest to his strength of character. If he's not mad, then we are dealing with a serious situation." She sighs. "If he is mad .... well, at least we'll know on Thursday."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 5:21 am**

Andrei nods.

"I would rather assume the worst.. for us. If Jackson is telling the truth, we could already be in danger. Do you understand what I mean? We should try to be careful. For instance, can we agree to keep this information," (he sweeps his hand over the documents laying around) "amongst ourselves for now?"

Andrei tunes everyone out for a moment and considers Ellie's latest thought - that Mrs. Carlysle is a prisoner in her own home. He would rather imagine the worst than get caught unaware. Worldwide conspiracy... terrible things...

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 5:30 am**

Maksim nods grimly. "It is not unknown back in the old country, for people to have been placed under house arrest, in both Soviet and Tsar-ruled times. But I hesitate to believe in a world-wide conspiracy. People like to talk. World-wide conspiracies need a lot of people. Someone would have talked by now. How could we not have heard about it? And what could he have found that his death wasn't enough to deal with? Perhaps a local conspiracy got her spooked, but not a world-wide one."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 5:35 am**

Andrei nods in agreement to Maksim.

"I know what you mean. It does sound a little farfetched. But what about the 'unbelievable terrible things'? All I'm saying is, it could be dangerous."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 5:38 am**

Maksim shrugs. "It doesn't need to be world-wide to be dangerous. In fact, smaller conspiracies are more dangerous, to my mind, because each member has everything to lose if anyone finds out. Something global may merely ignore people like us." He smiles. "If you are so worried, what are you doing for your own protection? How will you keep yourself safe when Timour and me go away tonight?"

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 7:00 am**

Andrei smiles genuinely, for the first time this night. Although Maks' comment seems to carry a bit of a sting, a little joke right now is like a breath of fresh air.

"That should be 'Timour and -I-', Maks..."

He's about to say something more, but is distracted by the rest of the conversation around him..

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 11:01 am**

Thomas hands over the newspaper clippings he copied for all to see (all of which are currently posted in the handouts section).

Caroline Ward wrote: "Erica helped lead the search for her brother's group, but the expedition was found dead. The authorities hanged the tribesmen killers, thank God. A ghastly business."

"I'm not so optimistic... Ms Ward." says Thomas in response to this. "If you read between the lines of the papers, it's plain to see the investigation was a botched-up job to appease people's thirst for blood. "a short, expertly-conducted trial" ? Don't count on it. Short, maybe, yeah. But I wouldn't bet my money on "expertly-conducted". "Triumph of justice" ? Not a chance in hell, if you ask me."

"This what I found on Aubrey Penhew." concludes Thomas, passing around another stash of his handwritten notes. "Nothing too interesting but it'll help you know the character a bit more."

Viscount Colonel Sir Aubrey Penhew (1870-1919(?))

The Penhew Family trace their nobility back to the times of William the Conquerer, when Sir Boris Penhew acquired great holdings in the west of England. With the exception of one Sir Blaize who was beheaded for treason and black magic (his crimes nearly cost the line its titles and properties) the Penhew prosperity and prestige has been undiminished for eight centuries.

Sir Aubrey graduated with honors in classics from Oxford, but spent the next several years in Egypt, surveying and performing exploratory excavations amid the then little known wonders up-river, to the First Cataract and beyond. As his official biography notes, Sir Aubrey is credited with founding several important branches of Egyptology, and for several important archaeological discoveries, particularly at Dhashur. Nearly as important, the Penhew Foundation, set up by Sir Aubrey, has underwritten many important researches at home and abroad, and is responsible for the education of many brilliant but penniless scholars.

Early in the century he briefly (1901-02) served as a lieutenant in the Yorkshire Guards serving with distinction during the Second Boer War. Sir Aubrey re-entered the service during the Great War as a Colonel in British Army Intelligence, although this gets a brief mention in his Biography there is obviously no real detail of his Great War exploits, he retired from the army again in 1916 due to injury. Most of his achievements in Egyptology occurred between the two periods of military service.

Sir Aubrey had title to several famous stately homes, as well as mansions in London, the Cotswalds, Monaco, and Alexandria (Egypt), and townhouses in Paris, Rome, and Athens. He was incontestably wealthy, and reputedly made new fortunes from his American holding companies during the Great War.

Though a public figure, Sir Aubrey's private life is little known. He was a bachelor, dying without family or heirs other than the Penhew Foundation. His Egyptologist peers still hold him in high respect.

"Did you not learn anything else about Dr Huston?"

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 1:42 pm**

Laraqua wrote: Maksim shrugs. "It doesn't need to be world-wide to be dangerous. In fact, smaller conspiracies are more dangerous, to my mind, because each member has everything to lose if anyone finds out. Something global may merely ignore people like us." He smiles. "If you are so worried, what are you doing for your own protection? How will you keep yourself safe when Timour and me go away tonight?"

"I agree completely," states Timour rising from his chair to address the group. "We are a part of your security force now, Ms. Downing. Even if we haven't yet had a chance to speak in private about the specifics of our job and tasks. We are at your disposal and shall do our best to guarantee you and everyone else's saftey. That will include us staying as close by as possible for the remainder of our employment."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 1:55 pm**

Maksim tries his best to hide his smile but doesn't quite succeed. Well, between the two of them, they'd managed to ensure they had a place to sleep and food to eat. Things should be a lot cushier for the time being.

He looks over to the good doctor to see how she's enjoying things. He meant to talk to her after the dinner, if she didn't need to rush off, though had the feeling that, being a hired bodyguard, rather than a consulted professional like herself, he wouldn't get the time of day with her now. After all, one can't have someone important speaking with the riff raff. What could they possibly say that was of any interest?

Feeling suddenly, inexplicably gloomy, he reaches into a pant pocket and fingers the edge of a deck of playing cards while listening to the others, all the while casting sidelong glances in Doctor Ward's direction to see how she was enjoying things.

Then again, perhaps that Elizabeth woman might make a better match... They seemed to have so much in common.

"It looks like you have found yourself a most interesting case," says Maksim, smiling openly now. "I'm impressed. It's been hardly a day and already your superb organisational skill has got us armed with far more information than I thought likely. So sorry I couldn't impress you with information of my own but those guards were an unhappy lot. I look forward to finding another way to show my own skills."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 3:16 pm**

Elizabeth smiles at Timour and Maksim. "Thank you for your enthusiasm."

She turns to address everyone. "I understand that some of you may still be unsure what to think of this whole business; I'm not sure what I think yet, myself. However, it seems prudent that we remain cautious, at least until we can convince ourselves that none of this is true. I propose that we continue to investigate for another day, since Jackson doesn't arrive until Thursday, and I think we won't be able to decide anything until we meet with him.

"What is there to do tomorrow? There are the two sets of Jackson's notes at the publishers, there's Hypatia's friend Olivia. We could try again to contact Erica, although we might have to use a different approach. We could try to learn more about Dr. Huston, perhaps Caroline has connections who might know something? What else?"

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 6:01 pm**

"I didn't learn *much* more about Huston," Caroline says. "It's mostly just gossip. Like me, he went to Johns Hopkins, but much earlier. He studied under Freud and Jung--that was a very daring thing then. I gather he was quite the popular figure, and he reportedly was able to charge a great deal for his services. Both Roger and Erica were his patients.

"Speaking for myself, I find what little I know of his behavior to be puzzling, perhaps even unethical. It's possible, as you may know, for patients to become, well, very *attached* to their doctors, and this seems to be even more true for psycho-analysis. We call it 'transference.' Without getting into technicalities, I'm saying that I find the fact that Huston ended up on the expedition to be, well, ethically questionable."

She pauses. "I can certainly ask around about him. Perhaps, Elizabeth, you could do the same among your circle. I suppose I could--no, never mind."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 6:12 pm**

"Ellie, I definitely think you should call Mrs. Carlyle tommorrow. But be careful - please don't mention anything we've learned. Perhaps we can think of another excuse that doesn't involve Elias Jackson - just in case she's sensitive about him rooting up the past."

"I can go to the publishers tommorrow. Jonah knows me well enough by now, I'm sure he'd be OK with that."

Andrei maintains his demeanour, but is irritated by the Russian Twins wheedling in to 'ensure everyone's safety'.

They always have this certain tone, like they're undermining me. Especially Maks - his subtle little flirtations with Ellie have to stop. Thank God they're not going to stay the night.

He racks his mind, trying to think of something that will keep the twins busy until Jackson shows up.

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 6:36 pm**

Timour nods at Elizabeth's words and replies, "I really cannot stress enough how important it is that we spend the night."

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 7:21 pm**

thewhatchamacallit wrote: Timour nods at Elizabeth's words and replies, "I really cannot stress enough how important it is that we spend the night."

"And why would that be important?" Andrei shoots back. "If you need a place to stay..."

[OC: I'm assuming this conversation is one of a few going on at once. I imagine a general hubbub in the room, but Andrei speaks fairly sharply here, so I wouldn't be surprised if he draws the attention of some others]

Barely controlling himself, Andrei crosses the room to where Timour sits. He bends down, but is still standing above him, grasping the back of the chair tightly. In a barely restrained quivering voice, he says in Russian: "Listen, what do you need? Do you need money? Are you out of money already? You need a place to stay? Here..."

He pulls his wallet out of his pocket and starts fingering through it energetically. Then he senses that others are watching him and stops. He speaks again in Russian: "If you need money, I can lend you money, OK? Just don't... Don't make a mess of things."

Embarassed, he sits back at his chair and keeps his eyes off the Russians for a bit. A minute later he manages a thin smile and says to them in Russian: "I'll lend you both some money, ok? At the end of the evening. OK?" He seems flustered.

[OC: Andrei imagines a number of horrible things, from the Russian Twins sleeping on the Downing couches indefinitely, to late-night flirtations with Elizabeth- and the worst: a constant battle of wits and charm between himself and the Rukovs - which he will surely lose.]

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 7:49 pm**

Timour is startled and slightly baffled by Andrei's response to a suggestion he made to Elizabeth.

Incidently, Timour's good-natured demeanor and lack of empathy hindered his ability to see Andrei's offer of money in any way other than an act of goodwill.

"Andrei, my brother," he replies in Russian and walks over to clasp the other man's shoulders.

He then peered around the room and smiled broadly at everyone looking on at them, "This man is my brother," he said in English, "he looks out for his own."

Wagging a finger at Andrei, he chuckles in sincere amusement, "like you, I to take care of my own. That's why we'll stay close, to watch out for our extended family."

Then Timour embraced Andrei, kissed him once on each cheek and patted him on the back before heading once more to his seat.

Posted: **Wed Nov 01, 2006 11:34 pm**

Andrei manages to force a thin smile throughout Timour's escapade. Afterwards, he seems to refocus on the threads of converation still happening around him and forgets about the Russians. He also notes who was paying attention to their little encounter.

[OC: If possible, please mention if your character was paying attention to all that Russian stuff..]

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 4:43 am**

Maks nods at Andrei, he hasn't missed a thing, he knows that his subtle flirtations are unwelcome but he figures it's all part of the game. As far as he's noticed, Elizabeth finds him amusing, but that's all right. He didn't expect to win over her heart, he just thought it was fun to try.

"We just have to stay and look after you both," he said. "Don't worry. We'll hold the fort for you. Considering how we got tailed before, perhaps I should be Elizabeth's chauffeur. Just to be on the safe side. I drive very well." He shoots a glance at Johnny, wondering if he'll contradict him. He tries to seem confidant in his ability, but something about his demeanor suggests that there's something about that last statement that has, at least once, been a lie.

OOC: That's what happens when I attempt to roll for everything. 8)

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 5:11 am**

Caroline pauses. "I can certainly ask around about him. Perhaps, Elizabeth, you could do the same among your circle. I suppose I could--no, never mind."

"You suppose you could what?" Elizabeth asks. "I think at this point we should try to collect as much information as possible."

thewhatchamacallit wrote:
Timour nods at Elizabeth's words and replies, "I really cannot stress enough how important it is that we spend the night."

"And why would that be important?" Andrei shoots back. "If you need a place to stay..."

"You are of course all welcome to stay here tonight. We have many rooms and it is a long trip back to the City tonight." Elizabeth gives the Russians an odd look, as if she's not sure what to make of their exchange. Then she smiles at a new thought. "Actually, I would be happy for you all to stay. Then we'll all have a night's sleep to think over what our plan for tomorrow should be. Caroline, Thomas, I understand that you two may have to deal with business matters tomorrow, but I would appreciate your help in any further investigation if you have time. Andrei, I think it would be great for you to go back to Prospero House and read Jackson's notes. Perhaps Timour and Maksim could go with you? I'm not sure what else there is to do. I will try to contact Erica, and perhaps Olivia as well."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 6:43 am**

Masks IC post 6

Johhny has been rolling, lighting and smoking cigarettes at a rapid clip pausing only to approach and carefully read the articles and telegrams. He blows smoke away from the circle of people; watching interactions intently.

"Miss Downing, the men following us in the car were openly carrying shotguns. If Erica Carlyle is of good character and is held against her by some sort of criminal group then extracting her will be a difficult proposition. The sort of thing best left to the authorities. Motivating that sort of activity on the part of said authorities would require some rather solid evidence. Evidence of that sort is, in my opinion, bestacquired when the target is not aware of the interest."

"Likewise, if she is voluntarily associating with these people, and knowingly employing armed thugs, then it is possible that demonstrating interest in her affairs could place the inquirer in physical danger."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 6:57 am**

"Shotguns?" Maksim near yelps. "What do you mean? Why didn't anyone...? And you told me to pull over." He glares at Timour, then looks over at Elizabeth. "Well, I-I'm glad I thought of the right thing to do. But ... all right. Elizabeth, I must insist on being your chauffeur for two reasons." He smiles broadly. "You have the same sort of intense curiosity that I have and that means the most interesting things will likely happen around you."

He looks over at Andrei and gives a small smile. When he looks over at Elizabeth, the concern in his eyes is genuine. "And, secondly, I've known Andrei for a long time, I know he'd want to keep you safe."

Maksim sighs. "And if there is even a few people keeping an eye on things, they'll know he contacted you, they'll know you've been asking questions, and while they'll likely assume Andrei is the head of this, you're both an important and a highly visible target."

He then falls silent, his mind roving over what they know. He still doesn't believe there's any conspiracy but Erica could be quite mad and a threat. Still, if he could get paid for driving a car, he'd be quite willing to do it. That reminded him, after everyone left, he'd have to speak to Elizabeth about matters of payment, or should he speak to Andrei? He puzzled over that little matter for awhile. Damn these modern women... He could never be sure what to do.

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 8:01 am**

Andrei listens intently to the discussion about Mrs. Carlyle. Although gun ownerships laws in America were much different than in Russia, he still knew enough to understand that Johnny might be right about a dangerous situation at Mrs. Carlyle's.

"Nevertheless, Johnny, Mrs. Carlyle seems to have key information that might help us decide if we're entering a dangerous situation or not. If Ellie calls tommorrow for some other reason.. say, planning a party or something.. what can it hurt? I agree that a personal visit probably wouldn't be safe. Perhaps a telegram or a telephone call might give us enough information. Maybe she could be invited for tea at the Downing Manor...?"

"I fear that, once Jackson arrives in town, word might get out that he is seeking help from the Downings. Then there might be no chance of getting unbiased information from Mrs. Carlyle."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 8:14 am**

Laraqua wrote: Maksim sighs. "And if there is even a few people keeping an eye on things, they'll know he contacted you, they'll know you've been asking questions, and while they'll likely assume Andrei is the head of this, you're both an important and a highly visible target."

Maks and Timour were getting bloody annoying tonight... more than usual, and Andrei had no idea why. He could only assume Maks was still trying to flirt. Money obviously wasn't the problem, since he just offered them some.

Andrei sighs and slumps back in his chair, defeated.

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 12:28 pm**

"I'm going to attempt to learn more about that Jack Brady." says Thomas, coolly puffing on his cigarette and not giving much attention to all the agitation about money and the Russians' antics. "He seemed important enough to the party that he was mentioned by name in the newspapers, so there must be a reason why he was specifically chosen. The other people who went with Carlyle seemed to be big shots for the most part. It's most interesting that Dr Huston actually went with Carlyle even though he was also his, let's say, personal physician (OOC: I'm unsure whether the term "psychotherapist" was commonly used back then, but it seems as though that's what Hudson was). Either Carlyle was so troubled that he absolutely needed the long-term presence of Huston by his side, or there's something about Huston that made him particularly useful to the party. Penhew is a gimme, since it was his field of work, but why Huston?"

"Liz, you taking care of getting in touch with that Olivia? She seems by far the best way to learn about that other girl, and she might know about the rest of the party too."

"Ms Ward, I'd also like to have a word with you when you have a minute." Thomas adds, not indicating whether it's about the present business or about something else.

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 2:18 pm**

Laraqua wrote: "Shotguns?" Maksim near yelps. "What do you mean? Why didn't anyone...? And you told me to pull over." He glares at Timour.

"Brother, peshaw," Timour exclaims while scrunching up his nose, "I could have taken all three before they managed to aim."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 2:38 pm**

Elizabeth smiles at Maksim. "I appreciate your concern. I'm sure you will be the most interesting chauffeur I have ever had. Johnny, I think you make a good point. Whether or not Erica is choosing to associate with these people, it is a dangerous situation. I will not visit in person, but I think that, as Andrei said, it is worth trying to see what she knows. I will think of some reason to telephone her. I will also try to track down Olivia, while Thomas and Caroline find more information about the rest of the party. Andrei will have the important but headache-inducing task of reading Jackson's notes."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 3:15 pm**

"What I was going to say, Elizabeth, was that I could probably get into Huston's confidential records. As he's dead, his records are probably in storage. I'd have to think of a good reason to ask for them, though, and if the authorities don't believe me, I could run into some serious problems.

"I hadn't mentioned that before because, well, I couldn't see why it was worth the risk. while I don't buy all this conspiracy talk, I am certain that something odd, probably very dangerous, is going on. And we may already have tipped our hand, Elizabeth, if your name got mentioned at all at Erica's."

She looks straight at Elizabeth. "So I'm willing to take the risk."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 3:25 pm**

She looks straight at Elizabeth. "So I'm willing to take the risk."

Elizabeth is quiet for a moment. Then, "I appreciate that, Caroline. If it would help, please use my name."

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 3:34 pm**

"Thank you for the offer, Elizabeth," Caroline says, warming up just a bit, "but I can't think of a legitimate reason for you to have those records, either, and I think mentioning you would just get you into more trouble. In any case, I think I can handle this.

"I'll look into this tomorrow."

Noticing Thomas, Caroline says to the group, "Excuse me for a moment.

"Yes, Thomas?"

Posted: **Thu Nov 02, 2006 8:13 pm**

When the night is wrapped up [OC: seems like some conversations still need wrapping..], Andrei goes to the rooms where the two Russians are preparing for bed. In the hallway, he pulls out his wallet. He looks uncomfortable.

In Russian, he quietly says,

<<Here. Here's some money, like I promised.>> He gives each of the twins $40. <<Let me know if you need anything else, OK?>>

He doesn't make much eye contact, and almost looks like he was forced to do this.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 1:16 am**

Anyone looking for Johnny after the conversation breaks up notices that he's slipped out.

He'll amble quietly through the lower warrens of the house before picking up his hat and coat from the side-enterance closet . Then he'll walk out onto the Downing Estate. It's getting late but he still moves around the grounds. He's never given much thought to the security of the place, but now he wants to take a good long look around and see just how secure it may be. He's not killing himself over it, and will probably be back in the house within a half an hour. He doesn't have an electric torch with him or anything like that.

After that he'll return to the house, knock most of the mud off his shoes, and slip up to the library to see if there are any of Elias' books up there; especially the one about death cults. If he can aquire the book he'll take it back to his room and promptly nod off in his chair.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 1:38 am**

"... Never mind." says Thomas to Caroline with an enigmatic smile, after a short pause.

Thomas actually wanted to suggest looking up Huston's confidential records, but Caroline had been faster in suggesting it herself.

He will follow through with his plans of looking up Jack Brady if nothing else comes up.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:13 am**

"Excuse me, Andrei," says Maksim with an attempt to be conciliatory. "I would like to speak with Elizabeth but considering the time of night, I think it'd be best, were she awake, to have you as an escort? I just want to ask why she's so very keen on being an investigator. How much does she know of this fellow she's researching for, and all that?"

If allowed to speak to Elizabeth, he won't push it if Andrei refuses, he will ask exactly that.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:34 am**

Laraqua wrote: "Excuse me, Andrei," says Maksim with an attempt to be conciliatory. "I would like to speak with Elizabeth but considering the time of night, I think it'd be best, were she awake, to have you as an escort? I just want to ask why she's so very keen on being an investigator. How much does she know of this fellow she's researching for, and all that?"

"I think its a bit late for that, don't you?" Andrei looks unimpressed. "Why don't you ask her tommorrow morning over breakfast?"

He's about to walk away when Maks asks him what -he- knows (OC: which is what I think you meant in your post.).

Andrei turns around and lightens up a bit. <<Well, she said she can't remember where she met him. At a party or something.>> He leans against the wall with his arms crossed in the hallway, speaking to the brothers in Russian.

<<What do you two think? I have a wierd feeling about it all. If it was one source of information, I wouldn't be so worried. But it seems like a lot of strange things going on in a lot of different places. Mrs. Carlyle's little army, Mr. Carlyle's disappearance, and his personal psychiatrist, and the disturbing letters from Jackson Elias. Something is going on, for certain.>>

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:44 am**

"Sorry, I wasn't aware we'd be eating together," says Maksim, feeling confused. He figured they were the hired help. Why would they be invited to the important people's breakfast?

<<What bothers me is more what those people might have attempted to do to us if I had stopped the car? I wonder just how far they are prepared to go and for what purpose. Someone has to be very paranoid to send armed guards after a car load full of what could have been just curious people. On the other hand, my Russian accent is hardly weak and there is a good chance she merely feared my apparent rampant Communism. It is something a number of Americans do fear.>>

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 3:01 am**

Andrei nods in agreement. He breathes a deep sigh and looks up at the decorative ceiling, thinking.

<<Sometimes it seems like these Americans think they're invulnerable - like nothing bad can happen to them.>>

He looks at the brothers, feeling a common bond growing between them again.

<<Lets promise to think very carefully about this whole thing after we meet Mr. Elias. Some of the Americans seem to be ready to jump right in, but lets reserve our judgement until then... I'm not ready to give myself over to this adventure until I know what we're getting into, and that we can get out if things go bad. I don't worry about you, or myself... or the Chinaman for that matter. It's the ladies and that lawyer that I worry about.>>

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 3:03 am**

Downing House Long Island, New York
8:00am - Wednesday 14th January 1925

With just one day to go before Jackson Elias' anticipated arrival in New York, the clear blue skies of the last week have given way to patchy white cloud. The extensive lawns of Downing house are covered with thick frost, and cold wisps of mist hang over Little Neck Bay and Long Island Sound.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 3:38 am**

Caroline wakes up, a bit chilled. These large old houses were lovely to look at, but they could be drafty in winter, and this day promised to be quite cold. She glances out the window and traces her index finger along the frosty surface of the glass.

This would be a trying day, she thought. What she was about to do would probably not result in any problems, but it would jeopardize her career. Anything for Elizabeth, she thinks, smiling ruefully. Then her smile disappears. It seemed like ages ago that she was happily practicing her profession by day, engaging in the social scene at night, and unaware of anything untoward. Now, suddenly, she and the others seemed to be looking into a void. Enough of this, she says to herself. Time for some coffee.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 3:51 am**

Maksim smiles up at Caroline as she comes into the room. He's already got himself a cup of coffee. It feels pleasantly warm in this room. It looks reasonable outside. Cold, but at least it wasn't snowing.

"So, are you excited about today?" he asks, unsure of what else to say. "Or has Elizabeth's infectious curiosity not infected you yet?"

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 5:12 am**

Caroline returns the smile. This fellow has a way of taking the chill off, she thinks to herself.

"Oh, Elizabeth has always had a way of bending me to her will," she says, not angrily. "I do fear she has gotten herself--and perhaps us as well--in over our heads, though. We haven't even met Mr. Elias yet, and she's already gotten me breaking the law--not to mention several canons of ethics. Not to mention discussing such escapades openly with people I hardly know."

She takes a sip from her cup, then runs her free hand through her hair. "Let's hope for the best, in any case."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 5:48 am**

"I have to admit, it's been awhile since I've been involved in something like this," Maksim says. "I've always loved a good mystery. People, places, events... I've travelled a fair bit looking for something new to discover. You'd be surprised what people will tell if you ask the right questions." He smiles and blushes just a little, ever so aware that he's given away a lot more about himself and his motivations than he'd intended. "I didn't mean it like that. I meant... I love hearing what people have to say for themselves, I mean, about themselves. About what they've seen. What they've learned."

He smiles into his cup, swirling the liquid around. "Have you ever tried to look through the eyes of a priest? A homeless man? Or a five-year-old girl? Tried to see what they see? Feel what they feel?" He chuckles, still feeling embarressed but in a strangely talkative mood that he can't quite shake off. "Timour calls me a fool. Y'know what? He's probably right."

"But it's nice to see the world in a strange and different way even if it is all in my head."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 6:16 am**

You can hear a murmur coming from an adjoining room.

Therein sits Andrei, with a folded newspaper sitting over his crossed legs, talking to Mr. Downing about purchasing shares in a new real estate venture.

(Andrei would have to spend all his money to do it, but often tells white lies about his actual holdings to impress the Downings. He doesn't like to talk to Ellie about such things, because he doesn't want to lie to her.)

He'll wait until Elizabeth calls Mrs. Carlyle, then try to organize a way for more people than just Ellie to get driven around in the Russians' car. Andrei can take the train downtown, if he's the only one going that way...

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 9:01 am**

Johnny wakes up in the chair and spends around a half an hour stretching himself out, especially his leg. In his undershirt, pants and suspenders his slips up to the kitchen to pick up a cup of joe. Fortunately he hears Maksim and Caroline talking a second before he would have pushed through the door.

A few minutes later, having retrieved his cane and found a proper (if wrinkled) shirt he limps into the room, with a short "Good morning". The copy of Sons of Death he perloined from the library is tucked under one arm.

He will perch himself on a stool at the far end of the large table preperation table that Maksim and Caroline reading the book, drinking his coffee and smoking.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 10:29 am**

Thomas wakes up early and goes to the kitchen for a couple of black coffee cups. He needs a shave, but that seems to be usual for him.

I want to solve this case. he thought first thing in the morning, after giving himself the night to think about it. It reeks of mock-trials, lies and deception from start to finish. I'll do what I can to make things right, it may be too late for the innocents, but I'm willing to do it just so that the actual culprits get what's coming to them.

"Good morning, sunshine... sunshines." he says with a slight smirk to the group.

Even though he still wasn't sure about the group (his job as a lawyer and his harsh youth in the streets had taught him not to trust people easily), Thomas was aware he would need to actively work with them in order to get anywhere. He still chose not to pay attention or get involved in any way in the bickering amongst the Russians. He feared this could potentially lead to important personal conflicts at the worst possible times during the investigation, and was getting ticked off at what he perceived to be unprofessional behaviour. However he did not voice this opinion yet.

"Ms Ward, I've been thinking for a good deal of the night about our next options, I don't think there's any good excuse you could think of to check out Dr Huston's file on Roger Carlyle. However it could be immensely important to understand the relationship between them. So we need to do it, and I'll help you with the legal side of things if I must. I reckon we're doing the right thing for both of them. If we don't learn as much as we can, we may never discover the truth."

Thomas remembers all his law books and all his previous cases, trying to find a legal loophole which would allow the party to request to check out Huston's files. If this wasn't enough, he would also attempt to use his reputation as a lawyer to make things easier.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 10:42 am**

Johnny glances up from the book at Thomas, If I recall correctly you mentioned being interested in this Brady character. Any reason to think hes more than hired help?

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 11:19 am**

"I just look at it this way, Mr Wong" answers Thomas, lighting his first cigarette of the day. "Carlyle was stinking rich and it looks like he could afford pretty much anyone. He had Penhew with him, who was a top authority on Egypt and archeology. Dr Huston, who was a renowned doctor familiar with these supposedly groundbreaking Freudian methods. I don't give much credit to this new "psychotherapy" business myself, but that's a different story. Hypatia Masters, from what I gather, was a former girlfriend of Carlyle and had a knack for photography, so her purpose is understandable as well. Jack Brady is the only one who is introduced by the papers as "general factotum", yet he is still mentioned by name in the article. He might very well have had a purpose we just aren't told about. It's worth a couple of hours of research, I reckon. It may not lead anywhere, but who knows. These articles seem worthy of a second reading between the lines."

Thomas had just effortlessly quoted the newspapers from memory, with rigorous precision. It seemed as though he had carefully studied every word in the articles he had found, probably in his room at night after dinner.

(OOC: Did the newspapers have pictures of the expedition members? Do we know what any of them looked like?)

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 1:29 pm**

Laraqua wrote: He smiles into his cup, swirling the liquid around. "Have you ever tried to look through the eyes of a priest? A homeless man? Or a five-year-old girl? Tried to see what they see? Feel what they feel?" He chuckles, still feeling embarressed but in a strangely talkative mood that he can't quite shake off. "Timour calls me a fool. Y'know what? He's probably right."

Timour, freshly showered and shaved came in at that moment with a feigned serious look on his face and twinkle in his eye.

"I never called you a fool, dear brother," he said with a wink while fastening his cufflinks, "a black sheep maybe, but never a fool."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:22 pm**

Caroline is struck by Maksim's words. "I don't think that's foolish, either. As a doctor, I often see people at their most vulnerable, and sometimes they're terribly, terribly alone when I give them some bit of terrible news. Sometimes, it feels like I'm being drawn into them and that I'll lose myself in their anguish. Then I have to steel myself and remember that they're counting on me to do my best by them, and I have to pull away and be a hard-headed woman of medicine again."

Looking right at Maksim again, she says, more quietly. "One does pay a price for such empathy."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:46 pm**

Elizabeth enters the room with a puzzled expression on her face. "Good morning, everyone." She pours herself a cup of coffee, mixes in some cream, and takes a sip, lost in thought. Finally, she looks around at the people in the room and says, "Did everyone sleep well? I don't usually eat a full meal for breakfast, but if anyone would like, there is a small buffet set up in the next room."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:50 pm**

"Do you mind if I use the phone?" asks Thomas to Elizabeth.

Assuming the answer is yes, he will call his associate at his office and have a chat with him. Thomas then looks slightly disappointed as he hangs up.

"I'm afraid no matter how I look at it, I can't think of a way to help you get access to these files, Ms Ward. It's just not legal. You'll have to find other ways and use your own connections."

Thomas had also been listening to the conversation about trying to see things through other people's eyes. It was a feeling he knew all too well with all the people who requested his services as a lawyer and who had big problems in their lives. While he tried to be emotionally detached while he was working, he didn't always manage it. So he preferred to tuck these feelings away in the back of his mind. Listening to Maksim and Caroline, he just shrugs and does not comment, not willing to be further reminded of this issue. He opts to have another cup of coffee instead.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:50 pm**

imme wrote: Elizabeth enters the room with a puzzled expression on her face. "Good morning, everyone." She pours herself a cup of coffee, mixes in some cream, and takes a sip, lost in thought. Finally, she looks around at the people in the room and says, "Did everyone sleep well? I don't usually eat a full meal for breakfast, but if anyone would like, there is a small buffet set up in the next room."

Timour disappears.

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:54 pm**

Maksim smiles a little at Caroline's words. "I have never been placed in a position of responsibility, like you have," he says in a low voice so that others might have to strain to hear. "No, actually, I have, I guess, because everyone with..." He seems to catch himself on what he's about to say and pauses to reconsider. "Never mind. Maybe when we know each other better."

He turns, finally, to regard Timour's comment. "A black sheep, hmm? Are you calling father and mother a lech?"

Without waiting for a response, he looks over at Elizabeth. "So what interesting scheme or cunning plan do you have for us this morning? I just can't wait to see where you lead me."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 3:37 pm**

Elizabeth grins in response. "Well, the first order of business is to make a telephone call to Erica. I'm still not really sure what I'm going to say. We'll just have to see what happens."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 5:31 pm**

"Maybe you should just play the innocent, Elizabeth, and laugh off any mention of yesterday's events as a simple misunderstanding. Maybe the boys were just there to deliver an invitation?

"In any event, you must try to relax.

"For my part, I'm going to head to the records office. As luck would have it, I have a patient in common with Huston, which should be enough reason for me to get access to his records. I'm counting on you to bail me out--literally and figuratively--if that doesn't work, Thomas."

Posted: **Fri Nov 03, 2006 7:17 pm**

Andrei remains in the other room, politely speaking with Elizabeth's father, but occassionally glancing through the doorway into the next room where the group is speaking. He'd like to get up and hear what's going on, but it would be impolite to interrupt Mr. Downing, who is giving a long sermon on hedge funds and declining interest rates.

Posted: **Sat Nov 04, 2006 4:10 am**

"I'm going to go call Erica now. Anyone want to come listen in?" Elizabeth grins and saunters out of the room and makes her way to the telephone.

"Hello? Miss Erica Carlyle, please."

Posted: **Sat Nov 04, 2006 5:53 am**

warhammer wrote: "I just look at it this way, Mr Wong" answers Thomas, lighting his first cigarette of the day. <snip> Jack Brady is the only one who is introduced by the papers as "general factotum", yet he is still mentioned by name in the article. He might very well have had a purpose we just aren't told about. It's worth a couple of hours of research, I reckon. It may not lead anywhere, but who knows. These articles seem worthy of a second reading between the lines."[/i]

Johnny nods. "Approaching indirectly may be a better course of action."

...

"Miss Downing it is possible that the Miss Carlyle has not connected you with the Elizabeth Downing mentioned by Mr. Max Rook," he guestures toward Maksim, "when he approached their compound. The conversation was extremely brief, and the guard extremely skeptical of claims made. It may be possible that the guard does not even remember that your name was mentioned."

"If you feel a strong need to contact Erica Carlyle right now, before speaking with Jackson, then perhaps the following suggestion may be of some use:"

"Perhaps you've heard rumors of foreign con-men using your good name and are calling to assure her that you've no idea who they are or what they're after."

"It presents a plausible scenario for why you would wish to suddenly call her, distances you from the visitors yesterday and provides you with an opporutunity to offer your condolences."

Posted: **Sat Nov 04, 2006 11:18 am**

Maksim sighs with a smile. "Great idea for temporary reasons. I only hope it won't get us investigated by your government." He winks. "But then, I'm sure you'd fix any beaurocratic misunderstandings before they got too far."

Posted: **Sat Nov 04, 2006 5:19 pm**

Grafster wrote: "Perhaps you've heard rumors of foreign con-men using your good name and are calling to assure her that you've no idea who they are or what they're after."
"It presents a plausible scenario for why you would wish to suddenly call her, distances you from the visitors yesterday and provides you with an opporutunity to offer your condolences."

Elizabeth covers the mouthpiece as she waits for the operator to connect her. "That's a great idea, Johnny. Much better than anything I'd come up with."

Posted: **Sun Nov 05, 2006 7:49 pm**

Downing House, Long Island
9:30am, Wednesday 14th January 1925

The Carlyle telephone is answered by a deep voiced man:

Hello this is the Carlyle residence, how can I help you?

Hello this is Elizabeth Downing, I wonder if I could speak to Erica Carlyle about a matter of some urgency.

It sounds like the man on the other end of the phone recognises Elizabeths name:

Ah hello Miss Downing, this is Mr Corey. I look after day to day things for Miss Carlyle; Im afraid Miss Carlyle is very busy at the moment, what is the nature of your business?

[OOC: Im not really sure how much you want to say without speaking to Erica, so Ill stop there for now]

Posted: **Sun Nov 05, 2006 9:38 pm**

Raiko wrote: Ah hello Miss Downing, this is Mr Corey. I look after day to day things for Miss Carlyle; Im afraid Miss Carlyle is very busy at the moment, what is the nature of your business?

"Hello Mr Corey. I'm calling about an incident that may have happened yesterday in which some conmen tried to use my name to see Miss Carlyle. I would like to speak with her about it, if at all possible. I'm very concerned."

Play@YSDC

IC: Chapter 1 - NEW YORK, Starts 12th Jan 1925

IC: Chapter 1 - NEW YORK, Starts 12th Jan 1925