Fantasy The Order of Seven - accepting

[Fenris]

Anger and frustration played across the older hunters face as he responded, voicing a grudge that must have been bottled up for years. While it gave the man what determination he needed to go through with this night, Alexander knew how raw emotions clouded ones judgment, guided the hand to fatal mistakes. As he waited for an opening Prenkus approached, the two quickly swapping blades. His fellow Prussian looked the worse for wear. Blood covering large swathes of the mans body, whether his own or another was impossible to determine without taking his eyes off Amberdale and so Alex silenced his initial concern.

It was the chancellors grim expression which finally drove Alex forward, despite her age she was a member of the order, unafraid despite the looming prospect of death. While Amberdale shifted his attention ever so slightly to address Prenkus and take in the words of an approaching Mina Puccino, Alex timed his assault with the accusing words “by... likes of you.” snapping forward just as the traitors blade began to rise with a blow intent on forcing the silver blade away from Cartwright's throat. Regardless of the outcome the brunette readied his other hand in a follow up strike, intent on driving his opponent back. He hoped the chancellor would be quick and more importantly fortunate enough to survive the initial moments.

 

[The Gunrunner]

Prenkus Lohmeyer

The Malian woman gave her thoughts, chastising Amberdale. It seems the end of her string of insults marked the end of the talk; Amberdale looks at him with winter in his eyes, "And what would glares get me? You and I both know Prenkus, that change is only achieved by action." Yes. Yes it is. Prenkus' eyes were snatched by Alex for a moment, the moment he lunges forward to intercept Amberdale's blade. The Elder roars as he charges with him, throwing one of the knives forward in the run - A dagger that spins through the air in the vague direction of Amberdale's head, more an attempt at a hasty distraction than a likely kill. He continues his charge, diving in an attempt to tackle the Lady Chancellor away from the assassin and separate the two.
SilverFlight

 

[CerpinTaxt]

Hearing the melodramatic words of Edgar had Oliver roll his eyes, deciding it was his time to leave and deal with any other situation that remained unsolved. Climbing back up from the hole, he noticed the appearance of a one Iona Grey. "Sorry about the mess. We had a few uninvited guests over who decided they wanted more than a bit of cake." His deadpan humor certainly didn't match the still tense atmosphere, with the Chancellor still hostage to Amberdale at the moment. Oliver figured the fight as more than dealt with at this point and set about looking for any belongings that were his, or were about to be reclaimed for his own use.

The two Colt Dragoon's he carried were the easiest to find, seeing as they were unmistakably large and unwieldy for most. They were found within a matter of a few seconds and were both returned to their holsters. By this point, Alex had made his attack alongside with Prenkus. Mina had also began her lecturing to Amberdale as well, but Oliver was focused on getting his weapons back instead of attacking. His knives were all over the place, and he was certain he'd lost most of them in the chaotic fighting. Honestly, he probably shouldn't be carrying so many to begin with, it was certainly too many. Picking up one man's revolver, he pulled the hammer back and inspected it. "Well lookie here...Colt Pocket revolver. I appreciate the donation." Now he just had to see how it shot. Raising the revolver, he aimed towards the fight between Amberdale, Prenkus and Alexander. He waited, wanting to make sure he didn't accidentally shoot anyone but the old geezer before pulling the trigger. He was aiming straight for Amberdale's jaw, deciding a bit of extra agony and pain would teach the man a lesson before he died.

SilverFlight Fenris The Gunrunner MJ ._.

 

[SilverFlight]

Amberdale snarled in frustration as his blade rung with the counter strike from Alexander. Cartwright was moving the instant it was clear to, grabbing onto Prenkus as both of them dodged clear of the fanatic wolf hunter. As they cleared his vision Amberdale was raising his blade to lash out at them, but only too late did he catch sight of Oliver, the vampire's pistol poised and ready. The shot exploded from it's barrel, catching the man on the side of his face and opening it up, blood and bone blossoming from the wound. He screamed and hit the floor, clutching the ruined corner of his face.
His sword clattered to the floor and as he cowered there, other hunters came up behind Oliver, Alexander and Mina, looking from them to Prenkus, seemingly waiting for either the fight to end in a death, or to be told to take the defeated fanatic away.
Even now reinforcements of the Order were bursting through the door, helping to restrain prisoners of Lycaon's Bane or else to load the injured onto stretchers. The dead, for the moment were left as they were, broken and bleeding all over the ruined room.
CerpinTaxt The Gunrunner MJ ._. Fenris @ReverseWells

Iona let out a breath she didn't know she'd been holding the moment she had seen it was over. Looking about the room it was clear that many more of the fanatics had lay slain than members of the Order, though her gut twisted when she recognized some of the dead-eyed faces still lying on the floor.
The adrenaline subsiding gave way to a rush of devastation at what had occurred, but she fought back the emotion, swallowing anger and grief before making her way to her cousin.
He was still cradling the head of an injured Edgar in his lap, a coat draped over the boy's body, his pale face looking ghost-white against the scene of carnage about them.
"H-how many did I kill?" Thaddeus asked her in a small voice.
Iona bit her lip, "I don't know." Her eyes shifted to the little rune blade, lying in a pool of blood where it had fallen. She picked it up slowly,
"But it wasn't your fault."
Thaddeus' brow furrowed at the object. He remembered pain, and losing control...
"That?" There was a battle of relief and guilt on his face as he took the vicious shard of metal from her. "It still doesn't change what I've done." He cast his eyes back at Edgar miserably.
ForgottenName MrBossMan


((Time skip after the finishing posts!))

 

[MrBossMan]

Jonathan stood idly as the battle ended with the soft moaning of the dying and injured. He managed to disarm a man and was now holding that persons sword in his hand. It was coated in the blood of members of Lycaon's Bane. He had no words and seemed to simply stand amidst it all as reinforcements of the Order came barging into the chamber. Some tiptoeing around through the bloody carnage before them. He looked over at Iona and saw Thaddeus holding someone, the wolf obviously defeated with regret. Jonathan had to bite his tongue hard before he said anything rash to Thaddeus.

This is why wolves shouldn't be allowed in.


As he looked around the floor Jonathan saw all the faces of the dead around him. He saw a blonde woman clutching her cut throat, her eyes dead wide with fear, her hands red with blood. Claw marks ripped through her neck and Jonathan instantly knew how she died. Having tracked werewolves for so long Jon knew how to identify one of their victims. He forced himself to take his eyes away from the scene. Looking ahead even further he saw Sir Amberdale clutching his face and surrounded by members of the Order. A strong exhale ripped it'self from Jon's chest and Jonathan started to march towards the group. Walking to Thaddeus, Iona and the injured Edgar. Stopping directly in front of them he had nothing to say to Thaddeus. Nothing that could make him feel better so Jon simply said nothing to him. Instead her spoke generally and loudly for the whole room to hear. Referring to the beaten Sir Amberdale.

"No trial needed here, let's kill the bastard and be done with this."

SilverFlight

 

[The Gunrunner]

Prenkus Lohmeyer

Prenkus tackles Cartwright down with him, trying to cover her body with his own. The moment they were both down he tries to get up, knife ready to defend the both of them should Alexander's assault fail. The shot startles him, but then Amberdale falls to the floor bleeding from his face. Prenkus is confused at first, looking at him, but then Oliver and the smoking barrel of a gun enter his sight. The old Prussian nods to him, a sign of respect and thanks.

The elder pushes himself up to his feet, sliding his abused knife into its sheath. Amberdale is down, that much is quite clear. Prenkus looks around him then, noticing the other members of The Order who have arrived to restrain the remnants of Lycaon's Bane or save the injured, others gather around behind some of the members of the task force. It's then that Jonathan makes his presence known, speaking loud enough for the room to hear: "No trial needed here, let's kill the bastard and be done with this."

Prenkus sniffs, moving a wrist to wipe his nose. Only then does he notice the blood, and the man looks over himself. He shows a disappointed expression, otherwise reserving his feeling of the earlier necessities to merely pat down his jacket. It was not a state he wanted to present himself in, and in that moment there was a slight discomfort plain in his attitude. Regardless, he speaks as best as he can: "I was right to approach Amberdale when I did, so I think I've earned the right to be given the benefit of the doubt now. I say we apply what medicine we can, and then interrogate the man. There is no reason to think this was everyone! If he is a traitor, then there could be another one. Let him be questioned like the Bane's survivors on the floor."
SilverFlight MrBossMan CerpinTaxt Fenris

 

[CerpinTaxt]

Oliver gave a small tip of his hat in response to Prenkus' nod of appreciation. Looks like the Colt was accurate enough to work with, and it's not like the previous owner needed it anymore. Oliver would have to find a place to store the pistol, but for now he'd just hold it in his hand. He watched as the reinforcements dealt with the injured and then looked back behind him where Edgar and Thaddeus were. He'd have to get his cloak back from Edgar later. "Quite a night...quite a night." The tall vampire decided there was little else for him to do now, other than give his two cents on how to deal with Amberdale.

"No trial needed here, let's kill the bastard and be done with this." Was the first opinion he heard of the matter, coming from Jonathan, with Prenkus disagreeing. Oliver had to agree with the latter in this situation, the potential of getting info from the old man outweighed his immediate, satisfying death. He made his way over to where Amberdale laid, cowering with his blood pouring onto the floor. "Personally, I agree with keeping him alive. Executing this man right here would be a sort of mercy, and I say he should feel more than a little agony. Though he'll have to speak to us in writing instead of actually speaking, seeing as I shot him in the face." He grinned as he stood over Amberdale, peering down at him with his eyes aglow. "I thought you had more sense than to do what you did. I guess you're just senile."

SilverFlight The Gunrunner MrBossMan

 

[SilverFlight]

The scene was cleared up quickly, Amberdale was taken away to be treated and questioned while Cartwright, a little bruised by all right went over to her rescuers.
"They'll want to give you medals for this." She said dryly. There was half a smile creasing her weathered face. "In truth however, we do owe you a great debt."
Thaddeus was taken away too, he didn't protest, only looked on with worry plainly painted on his bloody face as Edgar was taken away to a different wing.

~~~

Short Chapter: A Christmas Tale ​

A week went by, then two. Thaddeus' wounds had healed completely, though he was confined to the Order's compound until his case had been reviewed. He had lost control. That meant ejection from the order, another grueling 5 years of keeping control, alone.
He leaned on the balustrade of the second story ringing the wide courtyard that held the gardens. Three inches of snow rested lightly on everything and more fell from the sky, fluffy fat flakes coating his heavy green coat. His breath rose up in misty torrents against the cascade.
Not even the fairies' magic could keep the flowers in bloom with this cold. The blooms lay sleeping under their white blanket.
Iona was at the other end of the yard, by the gates that lead out into the street. There was a wagon there, brightly painted in red and green and filling steadily with happily-wrapped boxes.

An event with the local church group, she had explained. Bringing toys to an orphanage just outside of London. Christmas was a good time of year. The minds of men were on peace and the season, and few had time to stir the pot of dark thoughts and unwittingly summon trouble from the tainted world.

"Make sure we're loaded up in a few minutes, we can't be late delivering these toys." He heard Iona say. She was happy to have something else to put her mind on, since the events at Thaddeus' ceremony, Amberdale's betrayal had struck her hard. Though she never once spoke to him about it, he could tell it bothered her still.

CerpinTaxt The Gunrunner ForgottenName MJ ._. MrBossMan Fenris

 

[The Gunrunner]

Prenkus Lohmeyer

Prenkus looks out the glass of his window to the white sheen of the outside ground. He used to hate the snow, became increasingly agitated and short-tempered in it. It reminded him of events long past, of men frozen blue or burried to their limbs. Of Russian uniforms through a blizzard. Prenkus sighs out a cloud of smoke. He'd gotten better over the years, he needed to, but the season still had a way of reminding him of that hellish marsh. No one could forget such a thing. No one.

The elder pushes himself up, desperately needing a distraction before he'd further put himself into the blues. He grabs a thick jacket and comes out of his room, trying to ignore the looks from other Order members. Since their apprehension of Amberdale, the task force seemed to have a bit more attention their way. That part was something to take pride in, he supposes, but he was not one for the spotlight. Attention, taking respects, talking. No, let that go to some other man. He felt that he was quite comfortable with who he is and what he can do, and there was no need for someone else to confirm that for him. The worst ones were those who gave a different look... those who were present to witness the fighting on the floor. It was something the man didn't know how to interpret, but they typically gave him a wider berth.

The old Prussian makes his way upstairs, nodding to a few unfamiliar faces as they show a small sign of respect. A trail of smoke follows him in his walk, occasionally accented by an grey exhaled cloud. The man makes his way up the stairs, stopping for a moment - Thaddeus The half-man leans against the balcony railing, watching over the courtyard. The man seemed... less than happy, which was to be expected. Prenkus lets out a sigh, stepping out into the cold to join him. His presence is signified by an audible exhale, and the smell of burning tobacco. Should Thaddeus turn to see him, the man would nod and join the other at the railing.

He sighs, taking a cigar from his coat and offering it to the man. It was about the only friendly gesture he could think of. "Remember when we spoke about lycanthropy? My feelings towards you and your kind?" He asks, lighting the cigar for the man if he chose to accept it. "I did mean what I said. I'm quite aware humans can do terrible things, just like werewolves, so I can't say the feeling is hate." He moves the match away, flicking it over the railing, "Which is why it's easy for me to know what happened two weeks ago was not your fault."
SilverFlight

 

[ForgottenName]

After a strenuous recovery, and forced repreive from the Order, Edgar was outside gazing into the freshly fallen snow basking in the cold winter air.

He wore a rather quaint outfit that was borderline religious alongside casual style. It looked to be a half robe like top with oddly enough form fitting shorts that were red while the robe itself was white and parted at his waist revealing the shorts and his thin legs. His shoes were black boots nearly to knee laced up tight and covered in the fallen ashen like snow mixed with the cobblestone streets of London.

Edgar let out a breath of cold, icy air practically freezing into a coalescing mist from his mouth signalling how cold it had truly gotten. Adjusting the red scarf around his neck, he seemed to be helping the Church by spreading word and aiding in the distribution of toys. A group of school children seemed to recognize him parting from their matron who called to them annoyed as they prattled with Edgar, children who were both of young and about mid school age.

Edgar laughed lightly to them desperate to receive his attention as he gave them what they wanted and even began singing rather beautifully Christmas songs that ever grew more in popularity amongst house wives and children to boost their spirits of the holidays earning the childrens' laughs and delight to his voice.

It had earned Edgar a lot of attention from the locals especially being a part of the Order. Many housewives giggling and watching as some men shook their heads thinking Edgar was acting foolish despite his dedication to the Church.

CerpinTaxt The Gunrunner
MJ ._. MrBossMan Fenris

 

[CerpinTaxt]

Oliver wasn't sure who thought it was a good idea to wake a vampire up at this hour, but he presumed they weren't the most intelligent member of the Order. He already despised the fact that it was cold outside, and now he couldn't even have a good day's sleep? Oh the cruelty. At the very least, he wouldn't be cold, tired and bored. He sat off to the side of the wide bench where the coachman would sit and guide the wagon. He kept his ax at his side, an iron grip keeping it steady. His track record with riding wagons out of a populated area wasn't exactly very good, and it wouldn't be wrong to say he was a tad paranoid about the possibility of highwaymen making an appearance during the trip.

His attire had changed to fit the cold weather, with Oliver deciding to abandon the tattered cloak and light jacket for something new. A buttoned-up, coal black overcoat had taken their place, modified slightly to accommodate for Oliver's height. A large, grey scarf had taken the place of his leather face mask, wrapping around and covering his face up just below his eyes The pair of glasses he wore with darkened lenses had made their return, shielding his eyes. His wide-brimmed hat still remained, as did his boots and trousers.

The way Oliver sat gave the impression that'd he fallen asleep, his body leaned back slightly into the wagon and his legs were raised up and crossed. Honestly he wasn't sure if Iona was aware he wasn't actually asleep or just knew he had no intention of moving the toys into the wagon. Once Iona came to mind, he couldn't help but wonder just how she was taking the fact that Amberdale had betrayed them. He figured she wasn't taking it well, and this was thing for the church was just something to keep her mind off the fact her mentor had betrayed her. Then his thoughts went to Thaddeus, and then Edgar. Oh yes, he still had to have a little chat with Edgar about shooting at him. Oliver decided he'd do it the next time he saw him.

SilverFlight

 

[MrBossMan]

Jonathan had resided back to his old ways in the two weeks that followed Amberdale's betrayal. Meaning he was yet again back into his cold, introverted self. He spent much of his time reading up on the newest members of the taskforce. Everyone had a file within the Order's records and he liked to know who he was working with. Apparently Vampires were assigned with him, as if Thaddeus alone wasn't enough proof of how dangerous monsters were. Yes, the Wolf did save his life, but all of that was forgotten during the ceremony. They're dangerous. He still had yet to speak with Thaddeus during it all and now, for some reason, the higher ups thought it wise to add Vampires into the mix.

So he spent his time reading up, exercising regularly and occasionally drinking a bottle before bed. Now sitting at his desk in his undergarments Jonathan looked around his room. His bed wasn't made and seven empty bottles of whiskey lay on his floor and dresser. This December would mark the ninth year his parents have been missing. Missing, he thought to himself with a sad smile. As if the cynical Jonathan Reye's couldn't admit the fact that they were dead. Rising from his desk he got dressed in his usual plain clothes. Black and grey were his colors today which contrasted starkly to the white snow when he finally made his way outside to the wagon. The other Order members were already there as far as he could tell. Jonathan payed them no mind however. It seemed now they were delivering toys to underprivileged children which was something Jonathan couldn't understand. Surely there were better things to do. It almost seemed as if everyone else forgot what had happened two weeks ago. Like maybe Lycon's Bane would get a pass and they'd deliver toys as if the task force itself were Saint Nick.

Leaning up against the wagon Jonathan started to roll a cigarette. He only smoked one month out of the year and he knew why although he'd never voice it to himself. His father smoked, it was one of the clearest memories he had of the man, so Jonathan did the same.

 

[SilverFlight]

Thaddeus looked over at the Prussian took a place at his side. He sighed and Thaddeus tried not to look uneasy, the cigar was politely declined. The beginning of the conversation went as expected, but what Prenkus said last surprised him. He bit his lip, suddenly grateful for the old man.
"It doesn't change what happened." He said slowly, but the gratitude was in his expression. "But thank you. How is your injury?"
His eyes trailed down to the courtyard while he conversed with Prenkus, falling on Edgar as he played with the children in the court yard. He couldn't help but smile warmly as he watched him. Thaddeus hadn't spoken to him about what had happened that night, he was afraid of what the boy might say. Would he resent Thaddeus for all the the werewolf had done? He resented himself for it.
Still, those thoughts were far from his mind now, he only watched with fondness.
"I suppose we should be getting down there? Will you ride the wagon, or mount a horse?"
There wasn't room for all on the cart that held the toys, so Thaddeus had made sure to ask the grooms at the mews to prepare fresh animals to run along side it.
"I'll see you there." He gave the man a nod in farewell and made his way to the stables.
The Gunrunner ForgottenName

Iona finished the last of the preparations while the vampire pretended to sleep. She shot the lowered brim of his hat a dirty look. One used again when Jon came to lean against the wagon and proceeded to light a cigarette.
"Hard workers the pair of you. Pride of the Order." She grumbled at them sarcastically, jumping up beside Oliver and adjusting the reins. There was only one more place on the wagon, the others would have to ride.
"You better not let me catch you smoking around the children Jonathan Reys." She glanced at him sternly. His attention to drink had not gone unnoticed either and she regarded him with a slight disapproval. "Bad enough we're taking vampires and werewolves to meet children..."
MrBossMan CerpinTaxt

Suddenly there was a whinny from a gateway on the far end of the courtyard that turned her head. Thaddeus came through, the leads of two fantastic horses, one in each hand. The animals pranced with excitement, tossing their heads and snorting plumes of mist into the air, but the werewolf held them firmly. It had taken him years to gain the trust of horses. They could smell what he was and tainted always made them nervous. The grooms followed behind him with more beasts, each finely groomed and tacked for the trip.
The animal on his right was a large gelding, liquid black eyes shining and a thick, winter coat white as freshly-fallen snow. The animal was very fine, Thaddeus had hand picked him specifically.
He slowed to a stop before Edgar, keeping the horses and their sharp hooves away from the small children. It was to Edgar he held out the white horse's reins.
"I saw him, and...it seemed like he was for you." Thaddeus said timidly.
His own horse was a roan mare, thick-legged and gentle, she lipped his arm affectionately and Thaddeus let her lean her head on him.

"All right everyone! If you're not on the wagon or on a horse in the next five minutes you're being left behind!" Iona wasted no time in calling the team to depart. They had a lot of ground to cover and only a day to do it in.
ForgottenName The Gunrunner CerpinTaxt MrBossMan

 

[MJ ._.]

There was an appointment with members of order that she had to attend. It wasn’t as exciting as fighting beasts but apparently had some meaning to English folk and so she couldn’t lose the chance to get to know them more deeply. Weeks had passed since the brawl in the ceremony and no major event had occurred since then which had left not much for Mina to do but getting more accustomed to London and other members of the order. By the time, her ice had melted and she was interacting freely with them, even vampires and werewolves.

That morning too, she had gone for a patrol around the city and was walking to headquarters. Her clothes were the same as her first appearance in the ceremony but her shirt was woolen and her shoes had been replaced with boots. Before reaching the main building, she could see them gathering around a carriage; Ina, Jon, Olive, Thad and Ed. “Morning.” She said and observed their faces one by one to find out none of them was really happy that day. She hardly could take her gaze away from Ed in his childish custom and Olive’s face couldn’t be seen at all. Before she could say more, Iona ordered them all to get on and so she climbed the cart and sat beside so many packs. “You’re being so kind and all… but I think it’s not toys that orphans need. Orphans need families. Wouldn’t it be better to search for capable families instead and encourage them to adopt at least one orphan?” she asked rationally as horses moved and the cart started rattling on frozen paving while being pulled forward.
SilverFlight MrBossMan CerpinTaxt ForgottenName The Gunrunner

 

[Fenris]

Alex had survived that bloody evening, faced the orchestrator of the grand betrayal and helped to bring him down; even earned a medal in compensation for the few nicks and scratches he'd suffered. Still the nights following had been restless, blood and the sight of dying men chasing away peaceful rest. His comrades, wolves and vampires, had torn into men and it had been the right thing which perhaps troubled him most of all.

The breeze carried a bit of a cold sting this morning lifting his spirits while driving some of the exhaustion from Alexander before he pulled his scarf tighter muttering some incomprehensible complaint about the cold. Pulling up beside the wagon just in time to overhear Mina's comment the hunter mused “Ah, but we're sitting on a wagon loaded with toys and not a family in sight, perhaps we should make the best of what we have, for now.” With his expression partial hidden behind the fabric Alex tried to put more humor into his voice than he felt and then quickly followed up, “Personally I'd rather have seen it laden with goods from the bakery down the street; the scent is rather mouthwatering. Though that might just be my stomach talking.”

 

[ForgottenName]

The children all gasped and gave their own childish "oohs" and "aahs" of amazement at the beautiful horse. Edgar himself was stunned at it's condition and color. He took the reins gently stroking the creature having taken up a lot of equestrian training in his time in the Order.

"Thaddeus. I love it. Thank you so..so much." He said looking away for a moment before waving. "Farewell children. Behave well ok? And maybe I might bring you all some cookies for a Christmas present." He offered as the children yipped and laughed running back to their matron waving to Edgar reciving a gentle smile and nod.

"Sir Thaddeus..I wish to ride besides you. If you would allow it." He said mounting the horse easily adjusting to the reins. He then turned calling to Iona. "Forgive Milady Iona. Seems I was lost in my time. Do forgive me. Im ready to depart when ready." He said calmly looking mature, then shyly looking Thaddeus.

He really didn't know what the werewolf thought. He was rather nervous at the idea he may now be cautious around Edgar. Especially after how long it took him to recover and the state of him when he wakes first injured would've been a haunting image potentially.

SilverFlight

 

[CerpinTaxt]

"What can I say? I'm an old and frail man. I can't be asked to heave those cumbersome toys around." Oliver's sarcasm was obvious, even with the large scarf muffling his voice somewhat. The comment from Iona about a vampire meeting kids wasn't something the man had expected, causing him to laugh and slap his knee in sheer amusement. "Oh yes! I'll eat them when no one's looking, just like the fairy tales say!" He couldn't help but continue his laughter for a while longer before quieting down. His fingers idly tapped the wooden handle of his ax, deciding to say something in case someone truly believed he was serious. "In all honesty..I'll be staying with the wagon most likely. I'll just scare the kids and ruin their night, I suppose I just give off a bad aura. I'm not intentionally scaring kids, after all."

Mina's comment caused Oliver the turn in her direction, lowering his glasses to give the woman eye contact. "I'll be honest with you. Those who can raise a child most likely already have them. The rich have no intention of adopting either..it's much easier to simply donate to a orphanage for them, as a child is a burden to them. A child would merely cut into their precious parties and what-have-you." He slid the glasses back up to his eyes, turning around to face the front of the wagon. "As good of an idea you propose, it's practically impossible with our resources."

This was certainly going to be a long trip, and that left Oliver with a need to keep himself busy. He reached a hand into his coat, retrieving a small sharpening stone from inside. A bit of hand manipulation and the ax twirled around with the blade now resting in his lap. He took the stone and began to idly sharpen his ax, the light grinding sound being the only sound from him as he did so.

SilverFlight MJ ._.

 

[SilverFlight]

Iona looked at Mina sadly, "I'm afraid those three have reason, if it was in my power we'd be bringing families to the orphanage. As it stands, this is about all we can do."
She eyed the vampire's weapon critically, "Don't cut yourself then." She said, slapping the leads against the horses' backs and they started into motion.
MJ ._. CerpinTaxt Fenris MrBossMan

Upon seeing Edgar's marveling expression at the horse Thaddeus felt his heart jump. He tried (and mostly failed) to hide the flush on his face with the thickness of his scarf, looking on with admiration at his ease with the animal and the way he swung himself lithely into the saddle. Thaddeus pulled himself up on the mare's back and sidled her up to him. He was a much less accomplished rider, and steeled himself for the embarrassment that was undoubtedly coming.
Then, Edgar surprised him. "Thaddeus...I wish to ride beside you. If you would allow it."
"O-of course! I mean, I would be glad of your company Edgar."
The wagon was set into motion and Thaddeus offered the boy a happy smile before moving to follow it.
ForgottenName

The road out of London was filled with traffic. Thaddeus was sure they would have spent half the day jostling with carriages, carts and other riders, but luck was with them and before long the country roads stretched out, open and wide. Not long outside of the city they had to stop at an inn and change the wheels for sledge runners, but once that was done the sleigh flew along, her rust-red draft horses almost prancing, grateful for the ease at which they could now pull.
The bells on the back of the sledge jangled merrily, the horses steps muffled in the crunch of freshly fallen snow. Their great breaths steamed in the cold air and sweat began to rise in a fine mist off their backs. It was a marvelous winter day.
The fields were an endless sea of white, dotted with small trees and the occasional fence. Thick-downed birds flitted from the bare branches, gobbling red winter berries wherever they could be found. Now and again the group met another traveler, but for the most part the road was theirs.
MJ ._. CerpinTaxt Fenris MrBossMan ForgottenName

Iona dug into a small sack and pulled out a fresh loaf of bread. She handed it to Mina to share about. "Well, this could be a worse assignment." She said cheerfully. Her cheeks were flushed in the chill air but she was smiling. It seemed getting out of London had done wonders for her mood.
"The city is far too closed in for my liking." She stated solidly. "Better the countryside, where you're not getting all your minerals in a single breath."

It had been a long time since Thaddeus had been our of London and he breathed the fresh air with a joyful exhilaration.
The questions began to nag at his mind again and he found himself glancing at Edgar beside him.
"Why did you try to save me?" The words were out of his mouth almost before he realized it. He swallowed, suddenly unsure about getting an answer.
"I could have turned you. I nearly killed you." The concern in his voice was all too apparent.
ForgottenName

 

[ForgottenName]

Edgar's naive and wondrous expression died in the single moment. He looked guilty..almost hurt Thaddeus mentioned that.

"That..I wouldve done it for any Order member. Its..our duty." He said looking away forlorn in appearance. "I couldn't watch you in so much pain. Anger. Ferocity. No matter how much you hurt me." He said honestly looking at the overall scenery the group journeyed.

"Please. Dont feel upset Thaddeus. I care about you a lot. So please, dont dwell on it. Im not dead so..I figured that's a positive." He said trying not to kill the mood.

SilverFlight

 

[The Gunrunner]

Prenkus Lohmeyer

Prenkus tucks away the offered cigar, listening to Thaddeus. The elder notes the gratitude in the man's face, but it is clear he would not forgive himself. Not yet. "How is your injury?" The prussian chuckles, "Better. Try to avoid firearms a bit better in the future, will you?" He pulls the cigar from his mouth, blowing out a cloud of smoke. The half-man grows silent for a moment, and out of curiosity Prenkus follows the gaze down to find Edgar in the field. He can do nothing but roll his eyes. Thaddeus' gratitude towards that man was clear as well, but he felt there were other feelings earned towards the man. The wolfman excuses himself, and Prenkus nods in response.

Prenkus arrives around the carriages about the closest one can be to 'just in time,' just as Iona's offered five minutes come to the last minute. He took the time to grab his own horse, figuring that Iona wouldn't want his cigar smoke clouding the interior of the wagon. He brings it by the others, Thaddeus and Edgar seemingly some of the only ones to choose to bare the cold. The elder Prussian sighs, pulling himself onto the mount with ease and riding at a trot with the others. He comes out to the streets of london, moving with the others through a heavy traffic of fellow carriages and bodies. But today, Prenkus is excited. Not for the streets of London, no - He'd seen enough of the city for now. He is excited for what comes next: As the roads grow wider and spacious, he finds himself back where he belongs - The country.Finally

Prenkus can not help himself from tuning into the conversation between Thaddeus and Edgar, though his need to intrude is likely to not be found welcoming; he can't help but give a laugh at Thaddeus' question, even more-so to Edgar's answer. "If only he could keep himself from shooting at us while he tries to save you, hm?"
SilverFlight ForgottenName

 

[SilverFlight]

Thaddeus felt a stab of disappointment when Edgar claimed he would have done it for any member.
Right, so stop being a fool Thaddeus. He chided himself.
His eyes widened in disbelief when Prenkus chimed in and he looked from the old man to Edgar to glean the truth from their expressions. Any member...then why was he shooting at the others?
The boy's gentle sweetness struck him, he felt a surge of protectiveness rise again and sighed at Edgar's complete disregard for his own well-being.
"I-I'm not upset." Thaddeus affirmed, staring at the saddle bow before him. "Its just...I.." The werewolf struggled miserably, his face growing hot.
"I care about you too. And I would never forgive myself if anything befell you by my hand...paw...you know what I mean."
He took a long breath, as if he'd just set a burden down.
The rode in silence for a little while, Thaddeus only once stealing a glance to try and read Edgar's expression.
Then he coaxed his horse into a dancing sidestep. "Race me to the crossroads?" He challenged with a playful smile, fairly sure that the outcome would land him in a snowy ditch.
ForgottenName The Gunrunner

He urged his mare forward and she broke into an easy canter.
What Thaddeus didn't see was the shadowy figures, half-hidden by the trees. They were the shapes of men, though their edges faded, their forms black and wispy like oil smoke. Their faces however, seemed solid enough, they were inky black skulls and they turned to grin savagely at the approaching party. Several mounted wraith-like horses, the holes in their eye sockets burning like hot coals. The leader drew a sharp scimitar and spurred his skeletal mount towards the Order members, blade raised high.

MJ ._. CerpinTaxt Fenris MrBossMan ForgottenName

 

[ForgottenName]

Edgar growled at Prenkus and actually spoke enormously. "Dear me. Seems we have a wagging tongue amongst our group. Sir Prenkus, do forgive me but you are far more tolerable when your mouth is shut. So do us ALL a favor and keep it that way before you find yourself unable to speak anymore when your tongue is plucked from your filthy mouth you loathsome beast."

Edgar seemed to have been struck upon a sensitive nerve. It was shocking for him to lash out so rudely especially considering being the quiet of the Order. Riding ahead a little, Edgar looked back to Thaddeus. "No I..I think its best we stay together. As for what I said..disregard me. And what it was. Im just..nobody. A foolish boy, with a foolish heart, and a hopeless sense that a kind and strong, mature man such as yourself would be by my side. Not just..a partner in the Order." He admitted quietly perking his ears.

Seems he noticed the hallowed creatures hiding and pursuing them. Edgar drew his own blade and held a gun in the other managing to control his horse ironically the creature sensing his determined posture and staying as it had been charging a little quick.

"Members of the Order! We fight for the name our clan and fallen brothers and sisters! Let us drive the unholy beasts bac and show them how lukewarm the Hell they came from truly is!" He called looking prepared for battle.

SilverFlight CerpinTaxt Fenris MJ ._.

 

[CerpinTaxt]

"Trust me. I'm not exactly new to sharpening this." Oliver replied to Iona, focusing on sharpening the ax to keep himself busy. The busy road out of London filled the vampire with a bit of annoyance at the poor state of the roads, but the thought of riding out into the wilderness in a wagon was a bit more than annoying to him. Once they party had finally escaped the busy city, he could only feel his paranoia grow. He gripped his ax tighter, his eyes scanning any passerby and into the trees. He'd been caught off guard once, and he had no intention of letting it happen twice.

The conversation between Thaddeus and Edgar was more than enough to make Oliver roll his eyes underneath his glasses. However, when Prenkus mentioned Edgar shooting at others, he couldn't help but join into the conversation himself. "Aye. Next time a certain choir boy shoo-" He was too slow to join in. Thaddeus had already challenged the lad to a race and took off. A shimmering in the trees caught Oliver's attention, causing him to raise his head slightly to get a better look. It looked like...something was in the trees. Something that very much shouldn't be there. He leaned his head forward slightly, watching and caught the sight of something drawing a weapon of sorts and heading their way. Oh this was the very definition of not right. The person heading their way, and their horse looked unnatural and strange.

Strange appearances weren't something to stop Oliver however. He unbuttoned his coat, reaching inside to grab one of his Colts and unholstering it. "You should look at the trees." He rose his voice so everyone would hear him, his eyes still focusing on the man charging towards them. "I hope you brought a silver weapon, Grey. Because I have a hunch this bullet is about to be wasted." With that, Oliver aimed the Colt at the charging man and pulled the trigger. Perhaps it was a good idea after all to have him come along.

SilverFlight ForgottenName Fenris MJ ._.

 

[The Gunrunner]

Prenkus Lohmeyer

Edgar's reply brings a chuckle to Prenkus' lips... slowly harder, and harder, until he is laughing to the sky. Edgar's hostility was taken as far from threatening, but then again it was best not to turn this into a feud. Still... "I think I find you more tolerable when you are unconscious." He ends the comment with another chuckle, pulling the cigar from his mouth and tossing it off to the white ground. It's not long after that he hears their new-found vampire react to something out of sight - He yells to watch the trees, the tone clearly showing the man is not merely admiring the plantlife. Prenkus looks forward, seeing some skeletal mount with a black-skulled rider. Unexpected, though then again an unfamiliar sight shouldn't be too strange. Behind the Prussian, Oliver's colt goes off and fires a shot. The elder draws his own revolver, aiming it forward and firing a few shots towards the unfamiliar rider. "I'm guessing these aren't the orphans here for gifts!"
SilverFlight ForgottenName CerpinTaxt

 

[SilverFlight]

Thaddeus was quite taken aback by Edgar's dagger-like admonishment of the old Prussian, but his boyish face and mild demeanor had Thaddeus hiding a smile even as Prenkus laughed. It was hard to take the harshness truly to heart. Thaddeus felt his gaze reflect even more fondness in that moment.
He was caught completely off guard by the sudden admission from the boy and the smile evaporated from his face, replaced by a storm of different emotions all vying for room. Surprise, elation and then fear. He had shied away from his feelings, thinking only of how he could hurt Edgar, how he already had. The price he had paid for the same inane choice.
Finally he settled his eyes on the road ahead, bitter regret filled them as he tried to douse the longing. "You don't want that." He whispered slowly.
You can't want that.
But they had no more time to dwell on the uncomfortable topic, because a cry from Edgar made him look to where the wraith was galloping steadily towards them, his grizzly demon bandits right behind him.
The Gunrunner ForgottenName

Iona was standing in an instant, her silver sword drawn, her other hand by the bag of runes she never left without.
"Riders! Use the wagon to protect your flanks! Keep together! Don't let them single you out!"

"What the devil are they?!" Thaddeus barked, guiding his horse to back up level with the cart horses. All of the animals they rode had been battle trained and carefully acclimatized to the most bizarre of opponents, but the smell of death that radiated from the unholy assailants made their eyes roll, the whites of them showing in fear. Thaddeus nearly lost control of his mare, who whinnied and tried to shy. Giving up he dropped from the saddle, rolling away and coming up in a shower of snow. Focusing his intent he began to take his lupine form, though this time, he was well in control.

Oliver's shot caught one of the flanking riders in the head and to Iona's surprise it was launched clean off its owner's shoulders and vanished into a snow bank on the side of the road. The aftermath was nearly comical as the rider slowed and then proceeded to wade through the drifts in search of it.
Prenkus' shots took another down, the horse's legs buckling as it's rider vanished in a cloud of smoke.

Wisps of clothing could be seen hanging from the worn rib cages, they looked Nordic in style, though Thaddeus was by no means a historian he guessed they were old Danish. Thaddeus galloped through the tall drifts as if they were nothing, leaping at one of the other riders and taking him and his skeletal horse down in a cloud of powder. He felt bones crack under his heavy paws, but no sooner had it happened then there was a hiss of black smoke and the rider dissolved under him, leaving only an obsidian gem glistening in a bed of white.

"They've been summoned!" He called back, taking his human form again to speak. "They have summon stones on them! Get those!"
MJ ._. CerpinTaxt Fenris MrBossMan ForgottenName