[It is 1 am.]

NerwenGreen (11:56 PM): Thomas will try the home number first.
AgujaCabra (11:58 PM): After a single ring, the phone is picked up quickly... a child's voice answering on the other end, with a facsimile air of authority. "Hello. This is Mr. Haite's residence. Who is this?"
NerwenGreen (11:59 PM): "Good evening, Welsh," Thomas answers, slightly amused. "This is Thomas. Is Mr. Haite available?"
AgujaCabra (12:02 AM): There is a pause on the other end, before Welsh responds with some reluctance "He's here. I'll get him for you." Thomas can hear the phone clatter to the table, as Welsh dashes off to nab Gracian. A minute passes, before Gracian picks up the telephone receiver "Hello Thomas. What can I do for you tonight?;" the voice is tired, but friendly, and Thomas can probably tell that there is at least one other person in the room with him.
NerwenGreen (12:06 AM): "Good evening, sir," Thomas replies politely. "I have several matters to discuss with you at your earliest convenience."
AgujaCabra (12:10 AM): "I see, " he responds with an undefined hesitation; shifting the phone slightly and pausing to take a seat; in the brief silence, Thomas can hear Welsh informing someone in the background that his uncle is speaking with Mr. Thomas. "Can we discuss on the telephone, or do we need to meet in person?"
NerwenGreen (12:13 AM): "It would perhaps be better to meet in person, if that is convenient," Thomas replies. He pauses briefly, then goes on to add "One of my topics involves a new Toreador who wishes to present herself. The remainder .. are mostly about the Sabbat."
NerwenGreen (12:15 AM): Thomas makes a mental note to himself to spend more time speaking with Welsh the next time he gets him by phone.
AgujaCabra (12:17 AM): "All right," Gracian responds quickly, fiddling with something on his end of the line for a brief pause, and then continuing, "Shepard is here with me at the moment... if you drop by my place within the next half hour, you can address both of us. Do you have my address?"

NerwenGreen (12:19 AM): "No, I do not," Thomas answers, digging out a pencil and getting to write it down on a small pad of paper that he keeps next to the phone. "What is your address?"
NerwenGreen (12:19 AM): [getting READY to]
AgujaCabra (12:21 AM): Gracian gives Thomas his address. If Thomas pays much attention while traveling with Ryan, he probably recognizes the location-- Gracian lives in a two story house on Saint-Laurent, between Montcreiffe and Pensylvania.
AgujaCabra (12:22 AM): [uh oh.... I have to remember what the heck his house looked like... ]
NerwenGreen (12:23 AM): [hmm... got confused for a sec by the island of the same name ;)]
AgujaCabra (12:23 AM): oh oh... yeah.. there's an island Montcreiffe for some reason.
NerwenGreen (12:24 AM): After writing down Gracian's location, Thomas asks "Would you like for Abbie to visit as well? Or would you prefer to see her some other time?"
AgujaCabra (12:27 AM): "Abbie is the Toreador you mentioned?" he asks after a moment, continuing without waiting for a response.. "If she has anything to contribute, I would like to see her tonight. Otherwise, the introduction can wait until later."
NerwenGreen (12:30 AM): "The circumstances of her arrival are unusual, though I don't know whether they are related," Thomas remarks. He pauses to think for a moment. "I can call her later. I will be there shortly."
AgujaCabra (12:32 AM): "All right. I will speak with you soon, then, " Gracian responds agreeably, " Goodbye." He hangs up the telephone.
NerwenGreen (12:33 AM): Thomas hangs up. He changes out of his hunting clothes and into more typical clothing. He leaves the house and begins walking toward Gracian's house.
NerwenGreen (12:34 AM): Are there any motorboats on the lake?
AgujaCabra (12:34 AM): There are no motorboats for rent on the lake, and at this hour.. there are none zooming around at all.
NerwenGreen (12:35 AM): Thomas walks at a brisk pace around the lake, then.

AgujaCabra (12:50 AM): Approaching Gracian's estate from the south east, Thomas passes a few upscale lakeside homes, with gleaming, white upstairs trellises, and a traditional, old New Orleans charm. Gracian's home is a two story affair, situated within the centre of a two acre plot of land, and likely includes dock on the backend side. The house is white with a pale green trim that encircles the upstairs banister and frames a series
AgujaCabra (12:50 AM): of plantation-style shuttered windows; a typical white-picket fence separates the house from the road. Beginning just prior to the fence, a finely ground, gravel driveway leads halfway to the front of the house, before branching into a semicircle that curves around back to a half-hidden outdoor garage. Two large, potted ferns frame the wooden steps of a long, outdoor porch, on which a small collection of wooden furniture perches: awaiting company.
NerwenGreen (12:51 AM): [nice house ... the dock goes to the lake? or is there a backyard pond?]
AgujaCabra (12:52 AM): [he can't quite see the dock.. if there is one, it probably goes to the lake :p]
NerwenGreen (12:52 AM): [okay ;)]
AgujaCabra (12:52 AM): [sorry that took a bit to write... meh to Gracian's place :p ]
NerwenGreen (12:54 AM): Thomas walks up the front steps and knocks on the front door.
NerwenGreen (12:54 AM): [hehe well .. I was working up some nervousness about talking to Gracian which died down while I was waiting ;)]
AgujaCabra (1:01 AM): The front door sports a classy gold knocker in the shape of a lion's head. It doesn't quite match the white or green of the house, but nevertheless compliments the overall decor. After a few seconds, the door opens and swings inwards without hesitation. Gracian stands in the thresh-hold of the doorframe, wearing a simple brown suit with a suede vest, and a pale beige undershirt. His jacket is unbuttoned, but he does not
AgujaCabra (1:02 AM): appear unprepared for company. Stepping back from the door slightly, he motions Thomas into his home. "Come in, please," he offers cordially, continuing to he ask with a short, quietly inquisitive smile, "Did you walk all the way over here?"

AgujaCabra (1:09 AM): It should be this : "Come in, please," he offers cordially, continuing, to ask with a short, quietly inquisitive smile, "Did you walk all the way over here?"
NerwenGreen (1:10 AM): okay

NerwenGreen (1:03 AM): "Yes," Thomas replies casually, smiling slightly in response as he steps inside, looking around the house with polite curiosity.

AgujaCabra (1:18 AM): The front door opens into a foyer and sitting room, with a series of suede, violet chairs situated in a conversational arrangement. A quaint, glass light fixture descends from the ceiling, casting tiny puddles of golden light across the wide room, and two polished, cedar wood tables stand beside the door, bearing ferns that mirror the larger plants outside. As Thomas steps into the room, he can see a dividing wall to his left; a large, gold-leaf mirror decorated in an oriental motif takes up the centre
AgujaCabra (1:18 AM): of the wall, and he can make out the start of a more elaborate living area on the opposite side. There is an obscured kitchen area beginning on the back wall, to Thomas' right, and a casual cherry-wood bar separating it from the larger living space. Gracian closes the door behind Thomas, stepping towards the other side of the room and motioning casually for Thomas to follow... Welsh can be seen bouncing lightly upon a chair, a little beyond the dividing wall.

NerwenGreen (1:23 AM): Thomas obediently follows Gracian, still looking around with open interest. "You have a very nice house," he compliments his host.
AgujaCabra (1:32 AM): [oh geez... this is getting long.. I am almost done describing his house, though :p .. so long as Thomas stays in the front rooms!]
NerwenGreen (1:32 AM): [hehehe okay ;)]
AgujaCabra (1:33 AM): A ribbed, chestnut-coloured, suede couch sits with its back against this side of the dividing wall. Above the couch is fastened a shadow box that contains a carefully detailed replica of a tri masted sailing ship; an ocean backdrop has been painted in with oils behind the boat. There is a circular, mahogany table with a black marble insert, sitting in front of the couch: a pooh-bear mug sits on the table, and the table
AgujaCabra (1:33 AM): sits upon a long, woven rug composed of simple green and violet squares. The chair that Welsh is sitting in, pulled a little away from the wall, is also a pale green. The back wall holds a long, beveled shelf containing an additional array of indoor plant life, and there is a closed off entertainment center holding a wide-screen tv at the back corner of the room. The other corner is taken dramatically by a faux fireplace, with a
AgujaCabra (1:34 AM): couple unused gas logs piled behind the grate. A decorative bronze bowl sits atop the fixture, and Shepard stands easily near the stone hearth.

Gracian smiles warmly at Thomas' comment, gesturing for him to take a seat upon the couch. "Thank you. Please. Make yourself at home"

NerwenGreen (1:42 AM): [is Welsh right next to where Thomas would be entering, or on the other side of the couch?]
AgujaCabra (1:43 AM): [same side, actually]
NerwenGreen (1:43 AM): [so if Thomas wanted to get to the couch he'd have to walk in front of welsh?]
AgujaCabra (1:44 AM): [Welsh is a little farther back... Thomas wouldn't be walking around him. there's enoguh space]
AgujaCabra (1:44 AM): [bleh to typos. and bleh to not being able to show you online :P ]
NerwenGreen (1:45 AM): [okay..]
NerwenGreen (1:46 AM): How's Shepard's health looking today?
AgujaCabra (1:47 AM): Shepard seems to be well composed, and healed in regard to the burn woulds sustained the other night. He is dressed in a black long sleeve shirt, and black pants.. with black elbow-high gloves. His hat and jacket are nowhere to be seen ^^
AgujaCabra (1:48 AM): [ack. wounds]
NerwenGreen (1:48 AM): so he's looking fully recovered now? ;)
AgujaCabra (1:49 AM): He looks dandy ^^
NerwenGreen (1:49 AM): Thomas nods a greeting to Shepard as he catches sight of him, coming around the dividing wall. Glancing momentarily back at Gracian to acknowledge his last comment with a return smile, he stops to stand in front of the offered couch. Looking back toward Shepard, he says "It is good to see you have recovered."
AgujaCabra (1:58 AM): Shepard's eyes flick upward at Thomas' comment, flashing quietly in the soft, amber light, as he responds with a small, silent nod. He stands otherwise still, observing the room through half lowered eyes, as though accustomed to peering out from underneath his usual hat. Watching his behavior, Gracian smile deepens at Shepard's tense reservation, and he crosses the room in a few wide steps to clasp
AgujaCabra (1:58 AM): the other man lightly on the shoulder... Shepard visibly tenses, lowering his head slightly and drawing back from Gracian as he touches his shoulder. "Why don't you grab a chair, and sit down with us Shepard," Gracian offers in a friendly tone, patting his arm again patiently as he walks over quickly past the dividing wall, to grab one of the purple chairs.
AgujaCabra (1:59 AM): [that's Gracian walking over to grab a chair.. he decided to just do it for Shepard :p ]
NerwenGreen (2:00 AM): [hehe okay ;)]

NerwenGreen (2:05 AM): Thomas watches Gracian move about curiously, blinking in startled response when Gracian touches Shepard. He remains standing, intending to sit when the other two do. Looking over at Shepard again while Gracian is moving the purple chair, he says "I believe I've located the man you attacked at the railroad tracks, if you are still interested in his whereabouts."
AgujaCabra (2:13 AM): Gracian returns to this side of room, toting the purple chair. Maneuvering easily around Welsh, who playfully reaches to touch his sleeve as he walks by, Gracian places the chair on the other side of the hearth, facing the couch, and gestures again for Shepard to have a seat. Locking his quiet gaze upon Gracian for a short moment, Shepard obediently steps over to take the offered seat; cautiously sitting on the plush
AgujaCabra (2:13 AM): chair, and looking rather uncomfortable despite his unruffled composure. After sitting, Shepard looks to Thomas with a hint of interest in his eye, "Yes," he responds quietly, " I would be interested in knowing where you saw him."

NerwenGreen (2:16 AM): Thomas settles into the couch as Shepard sits down. "I am fairly certain that his name is Percival," he says quietly, "though I have not yet confirmed this." He goes on to describe the location of the house on Guillame.

AgujaCabra (2:25 AM): Shepard listens intently to Thomas' description of the house, nodding thoughtfully at the conclusion without a hint of surprise on his features, although his tone betrays a certain, small confusion as he begins to speak after a pause.. "I believe there was a gathering at that location last night," he says softly, glancing at Gracian out of the corner of his eye. Taking the hint, Gracian moves over to Welsh's chair, scooping the
AgujaCabra (2:25 AM): boy up onto his lap, and procuring a seat in the same pale-green chair. Welsh squeals as he is scooped, but quiets down quickly and begins to count off the buttons on the Prince's jacket and shirtfront to himself.
NerwenGreen (2:25 AM): Thomas raises an eyebrow and waits for Shepard to continue.
AgujaCabra (2:33 AM): Shepard watches Gracian cross over to take a seat; relaxing slightly once Welsh is settled securely upon his lap, and then returning his attention to Thomas again. His gaze lowers minutely as he continues, "I was not able to observe closely. However, your contact-- Chauncey, was present, along with at least 30 additonal Sabbat."
AgujaCabra (2:33 AM): [sorry! I wandered.. I did not think you'd be quite so quick in responding :P ]
NerwenGreen (2:34 AM): "At what time did this gathering occur?" Thomas asks.
AgujaCabra (2:36 AM): A slight pause. "When I observed the assembly, it was approximately 3:30 in the morning... I do not know when it began." His eyes flicker with muted curiosity, "Why do you ask?"

NerwenGreen (2:44 AM): "Chauncey was with me until just before 3," Thomas answers quietly, without hesitation. "I was curious whether the meeting occurred before or after I saw him." He pauses to think for a moment. "Were you able to overhear what their meeting was about?"
AgujaCabra (2:49 AM): Shepard shakes his head slightly, keeping his eyes slightly deferred, and keenly attentive of the living room's three occupants. "No. The location was guarded in the air. I could not remain long without being seen. "

Gracian pipes up thoughtfully as Shepard finishes, "Did you learn anything from Chauncey, before he left for the meeting-- did he mention what it might be about? "
NerwenGreen (2:53 AM): "He hinted that they are planning something," Thomas replies, looking over at Gracian. "Something bigger than their attack on Shepard. But he would not say specifically. He wanted to find out more about their timing." He pauses, biting his lip thoughtfully. "It seems I will need to find him again soon."

AgujaCabra (3:02 AM): Gracian's brow creases with a slight worry, as he turns his attention completely to Thomas. "I would like you to continue gathering information from him, or any other Sabbat who are loose with their words-- but be careful about getting too close. I doubt Chauncey is any real threat from what you have said, but he may still have dangerous associates." Shepard glances briefly at Gracian as he speaks, but adds
AgujaCabra (3:02 AM): nothing of his own. Welsh frees himself from Gracian's lap, and sits down cross-legged beside the chair instead; listening in on the conversation with a casual interest.
NerwenGreen (3:08 AM): Thomas glances at Shepard with a slightly confused look, then turns to focus on Gracian. "Chauncey's associates may be more dangerous to Chauncey than to me," he answers with a hint of concern. He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees with his hands folded together in front of him. "I am exploring some additional avenues of information gathering. Would you know what the Sabbat capabilities are for necromancy? Working with ghosts?"
AgujaCabra (3:14 AM): Gracian flashes a surprised smile, resting his arm on the side of the chair, and regarding Thomas with renewed curiosity. "I am aware of two Giovanni living within the city limits-- however, I do not believe they do much business with the Sabbat," he pauses to consider this for a moment, and then continues thoughtfully, "I doubt sincerely that there are any disciplines that someone in the Sabbat does not know.
AgujaCabra (3:14 AM): Although, " he admits, "I've never seen the local Sabbat use the dead extensively." At this, Gracian looks to Shepard for confirmation, and Shepard offers a small nod in rejoinder; allowing the Prince to carry the conversation.
NerwenGreen (3:20 AM): Thomas nods thoughtfully, studying the mahogany table in front of him. "I have recently acquired a ghoul who claims to speak with ghosts, though I have not yet confirmed this," he says quietly. "If his abilities pan out, it could be a useful possibility."
AgujaCabra (3:27 AM): Gracian nods, observing Thomas with an open interest, as he adjusts himself slightly in the cushioned chair; propping both arms on their respective sides, and playing with the fabric under his fingertips. After a moment, he leans his wrists on his knee instead. "If he can do as he claims, that would be an excellent first approach... I would rather let someone who is relatively unknown collect information, than enlist
AgujaCabra (3:27 AM): the aid of vampires who might be recognized. " He dismisses this lightly with a hand, "If he doesn't pan out-- we have others who can speak with the dead. Let me know what your plans are in that regard. "
NerwenGreen (3:28 AM): Thomas nods in assent. "The Giovanni you mentioned are loyal to the Camarilla, then?"
AgujaCabra (3:33 AM): Hesitating briefly, Gracian carefully considers Thomas' question before responding cautiously. "No. One of the Giovanni could be bought-- but I was not referring to them specifically. " Leaning back slightly into the chair, he admits "There are a small number of Camarilla who also know necromancy. I don't believe anyone can speak to
AgujaCabra (3:33 AM): the actual spirts, however. A few of us can gather information from bodies."
NerwenGreen (3:38 AM): "I see," Thomas replies after a moment. "I will keep you informed on my progress with the ghoul." He looks up at Gracian. "What sort of time constraints are there? My impression has been that we will need to act fairly quickly."
AgujaCabra (3:47 AM): Gracian raises an eyebrow at Thomas' last question, leaning forward again to regard him thoughtfully. "If we knew what their plans were, I could estimate a timeframe... at the moment we are only aware of several events, which may or may not be related. I will post guards at the Elysiums, and begin sending spies into Sabbat territory." He
AgujaCabra (3:48 AM): sits back again, albeit tensely-- "Whatever the locals are planning, New Orleans knows something about it. Mr. Garnett was taken from his guarded loft, during his first night in town. . Through the Prince's cooperation, we were able to get him back quickly; but they have noticed similar train shipments... after we informed them of our situation."
NerwenGreen (3:49 AM): "What of Baton Rouge? Has anything unusual occurred there within the last week?"
AgujaCabra (3:51 AM): Gracian frowns thoughtfully, "Baton Rouge has reported some unexplained disappearances. They have not overtaken any suspicious cargo, either by train or any other means, however. "
AgujaCabra (3:53 AM): "The Prince of Baton Rouge is not exactly forthcoming with information, however," he admits somewhat grudgingly.
NerwenGreen (3:57 AM): Thomas leans back into the couch, still regarding Gracian steadily. "Abbie, the Toreador I mentioned over the phone, is from Baton Rouge," he informs him. "She claims that she awoke here in Midsomer yesterday evening, near the carnival, with no memory of the past several nights." He pauses, a hint of confusion coming over his face as he recollects Ryan's scans. "There were traces of bleach in her veins."
AgujaCabra (4:02 AM): Gracian regards Thomas gravely, "That's .. interesting, to say the least." He stops for a moment, beginning again with a short glance to Shepard "I would like to meet her as soon as possible. However, I will also be calling a city-wide count of any new vampires who have not been presented... or any who I have not seen at recent meetings," he includes with a hint of regret in his tone.
NerwenGreen (4:03 AM): Thomas gives him a questioning look. "Are there some unexplained disappearances in Midsomer as well?"
AgujaCabra (4:11 AM): "Not that I am aware of." He responds with some assurance, resting his arm back against the side of the chair. "However, we do not know how long these shipments have been coming in; or how the vampires who enter the city this way integrate into our society.. If Abbie was mistakenly released, there may be others. If it was intentional, then we certainly need to know why. ."
AgujaCabra (4:12 AM): [wait wait.. let him say one more thing :p ]
AgujaCabra (4:13 AM): ".. I actually have not seen Cyperion in a number of days, " he comments with some apprehension.
AgujaCabra (4:13 AM): [beh]
NerwenGreen (4:16 AM): Thomas nods after considering this for a moment. "If there is someone who could reconstruct Abbie's memories, we may find out more," he suggests. Adding as an afterthought, he comments, "I met Cyperion when I first came to Midsomer. I hope he is all right."
AgujaCabra (4:20 AM): "When I meet Abbie, I will see about restoring her memories. . " he comments steadily, turning his pale, slate-gray eyes on Thomas questioningly, "Did you have any other information tonight?," he asks politely.
AgujaCabra (4:21 AM): [all right.. obviously I am losing my ability to think straight :p ]
NerwenGreen (4:21 AM): [hmm ... that was kind of sudden, like he's trying to get rid of Thomas now :p]
AgujaCabra (4:22 AM): [well.. he did tell Thomas that he and Shepard would be there for half an hour :P He needs to talk to some other people tonight]
NerwenGreen (4:22 AM): [ah .. okay..]
NerwenGreen (4:23 AM): [how long has it been? ;)]
AgujaCabra (4:23 AM): [I have no idea, really... since Thomas and he spoke on the phone, it's been darn close to half an hour.. if not a bit over]
NerwenGreen (4:23 AM): [hehe okay]
NerwenGreen (4:27 AM): Thomas looks up at Gracian, raising an eyebrow, then considers the question for a moment. "There was one other thing that Chauncey suggested," he says with some hesitation. "Though I believe he was speaking more for his personal wishes rather than those of the Sabbat as a whole."
AgujaCabra (4:30 AM): "Oh?," Gracian raises an eyebrow of his own, letting it fall quickly back into place, as he addresses Thomas with casual, but genuine interest-- apparently having pushed his other affairs to the side, "What did he suggest? "
NerwenGreen (4:33 AM): "At least before yesterday's gathering, he believed that a compromise could be reached toward a peaceful resolution," Thomas answers, speaking a little more quickly than before, "if the Camarilla offered some gestures of friendship toward the Sabbat." His tone takes on a vaguely dubious edge as he continues. "His suggestion was to allow the Sabbat to choose the next mayor of Midsomer."

[Jan. 21, 2003]

AgujaCabra (10:08 PM): Casually crossing one foot over the other, Gracian leans forward slightly in his chair, as he listens to Thomas' recollection of the earlier conversation with Chauncey. A vague frown passes his lips as he notices the change in Thomas' tone, and he sits back again thoughtfully once he has finished speaking. After a pause, he begins with a distinct, if vaguely uneasy, smile, "The Sabbat already control of a portion of our local media, and while we are not certain of their exact
AgujaCabra (10:08 PM): numbers-we suspect that there are more of them, than there are of usŠ " Gracian seems vaguely troubled, as he continues thoughtfully; "Š Giving up the mayor's position would essentially be a concession that the city is Sabbat. This has never been the case, nor do I plan for it to become the case."

NerwenGreen (10:14 PM): "I see," Thomas responds quietly, after a moment. He nods thoughtfully. "Then, it would not be an appropriate course of action even if Chauncey were speaking for the Sabbat officially."
AgujaCabra (10:21 PM): Gracian shakes his head slightly, with a stony expression; uncrossing his feet again restlessly, as he regards Thomas from his perch across the low, circular table. "Gresham has contacts within the city that are invaluable to us-- the Sabbat are aware of this I am sure, and would like to gain control of these offices through
AgujaCabra (10:21 PM): mitigating our influence." Glancing to Shepard, as though for input, he comments after a beat: "No. It wouldn't be a course of action that we'd prefer to take."
NerwenGreen (10:23 PM): Thomas nods again. "Correct me if I am wrong, but they are already trying to take the mayor's office."
AgujaCabra (10:29 PM): [oh sorry. I am having a heck of a time getting into Gracian's character right now. give me just another moment]
NerwenGreen (10:29 PM): [take your time ;) .. I'm trying to get into Thomas's also]
AgujaCabra (10:33 PM): He nods quietly, in concession. "I am sure that is Miss Aashton's intention," he comments with a small, but open smile; putting his arm back on the side of the chair, and regarding Thomas steadily. "I'd rather not hand her the office, or the influence. . However, if she does put someone in office, Gresham's influence should
AgujaCabra (10:33 PM): still be useful. He has been running the city for more years than any Prince to date," Gracian cracks a short laugh, continuing easily, "She'll have a hard time compensating for that experience."
NerwenGreen (10:39 PM): Thomas smiles benignly, leaning back and relaxing slightly against the back of the couch. "That is good to know," he replies. After pausing for a second, he asks casually, almost as an afterthought "What would be an appropriate friendship gesture? Assuming one was to be offered?"

AgujaCabra (10:45 PM): Considering the question for a long moment, Gracian frowns at the edge of the table as he replies slowly, "Given their actions against Shepard and the Camarilla as a whole during the past week, I am not sure a gesture of friendship is in order." His gaze rises to focus steadily upon Thomas again, "Has Chauncey said anything to indicate otherwise? "

NerwenGreen (10:52 PM): Thomas returns a quick, negative shake of the head. "He is something of an idealist," he comments. "I am inclined to agree with you, however." Pausing slightly, he leans forward again, looking steadily at Gracian. "May I ask what course of action we are likely to take in response to the past week?"
AgujaCabra (10:57 PM): [oh pooh... why'd you have to go and update :p ? ]
NerwenGreen (10:58 PM): [hehehe]
AgujaCabra (10:58 PM): [::tries to think like a Prince::]
NerwenGreen (10:58 PM): [he could always refuse to answer the question :p]
AgujaCabra (10:59 PM): [meh. I know ^^ ]
AgujaCabra (11:06 PM): Gracian is intensely quiet for a few seconds, before he offers a slow nod of acquiescence. "At the moment, I am not willing to risk open confrontation," he admits tensely, sitting back restlessly in his chair; "After tonight, guards will be posted at the Elysium locations, and any subversive Sabbat activity there will be dealt with harshly. We will begin a close observation on Miss
AgujaCabra (11:06 PM): Aashton's activities, now that we are certain of her locationŠ and Mr. Strauss, I will leave to Shepard for the time being." He looks over to Shepard thoughtfully, adding, ".. I would prefer to reserve any Š warfare that may occur, until we are sure of our own strength."
AgujaCabra (11:07 PM): [um.... Thomas can be Prince now :p ? ]
NerwenGreen (11:07 PM): [erm ... I don't think so. :p]
NerwenGreen (11:09 PM): Thomas looks over at Shepard as well. "May I ask what you have planned for Mr. Strauss?" he asks quietly.
NerwenGreen (11:09 PM): [hard questions all around tonight .. sorry! :/]
AgujaCabra (11:09 PM): [I know! aaaaah. ]
AgujaCabra (11:16 PM): Shepard rotates his gaze slowly upwards at the question, an infinitely subtle flicker within the pale hue of his eye. He returns Gracian's look first, and then turns his attention to Thomas. Quietly, he replies, "I will see to the defenses of his home, and decide what actions are appropriate from there... If Gracian is not prepared for war, I will not begin one yet. "
AgujaCabra (11:16 PM): [uh... and the ST gets out of them through indecision! yay!]
NerwenGreen (11:17 PM): [nice evasive action :p]
AgujaCabra (11:17 PM): [I console myself with the thought that it would honestly be stupid for either of them to suggest an attack... ]
NerwenGreen (11:17 PM): Thomas nods after a moment. "If you would like me to help in some way," he begins.
AgujaCabra (11:27 PM): Shepard echoes the nod with a slight lowering of the chin, and adds softly, "Tomorrow night, I will be observing his estate. I do not expect to meet him at that time, but I would still prefer to have a backup." He says the last part stiffly, glancing to Gracian out of the corner of his eye.
AgujaCabra (11:27 PM): Gracian smiles lightly at Shepard's tone, evidently finding some humor in either the statement or the attitude. After a pause, he adds, ".. I'm actually interested in Chauncey's idea of a ... gesture of friendship. As I said, that might not be appropriate. However, if there is a way to settle the current situation without a physical confrontation-- I am open to any ideas."
AgujaCabra (11:33 PM): [oh pooh. Shepard doesn't need no stinkin' backup :p ]
NerwenGreen (11:35 PM): Thomas smiles slightly at Shepard's words, as he recalls Gracian's similar suggestion from the meeting last Wednesday. He nods at Shepard in acquiescence before turning back to look at Gracian. His smile fades as he says "I will speak to Chauncey in more detail about his ideas, then." He pauses thoughtfully before continuing with "Some sort of response still seems warranted. If they are testing our strength, it may seem like a sign of weakness if we don't react. And there must be something we could do to test their strength."
NerwenGreen (11:35 PM): [hehehe .. Gracian seems to think so ;)]
NerwenGreen (11:35 PM): [and ... that means Thomas gets to run around with Shepard again tomorrow =)]

AgujaCabra (11:49 PM): Gracian returns Thomas' comments with a slow, meditative nod. Resting his hands tensely against his knee, he considers the suggestion for a long moment, and shifts slightly in his seat to find a more comfortable position. "There are measures that could be taken, but we must be careful not to overstep ourselves." He turns his gaze
AgujaCabra (11:49 PM): to Thomas steadily, "We will be conducting surveillance tonight. I will make a decision tomorrow night, regarding a course of action."
AgujaCabra (11:50 PM): [oh my holy god... don't let me rp tonight! I'm taking a ridiculous amount of time]
NerwenGreen (11:51 PM): Thomas nods again. "I would be interested in knowing what you decide," he says.
NerwenGreen (11:51 PM): [nah - you had a lot of hard questions thrown at you ;)]
AgujaCabra (11:58 PM): "Certainly," the Prince replies, beginning to push himself up with a certain, rigid grace, from his cushioned seat. He pushes the sleeve of his shirt back to glance surreptitiously at an elegant rolex watch, and then looks back to Thomas. "I am terribly sorry Thomas, but I do have other business to attend to tonight." Cracking a warm smile, Gracian extends a hand towards him in a friendly gesture. "Thank you for coming by on short notice."
NerwenGreen (12:01 AM): "It was no trouble," Thomas replies, getting to his feet as well and shaking the offered hand once, firmly, before letting go again. He pulls out a small piece of paper upon which he had copied Abbie's contact information, and offers it to Gracian. "The Toreador from Baton Rouge is staying a youth hostel."
NerwenGreen (12:01 AM): [staying AT a youth hostel]
AgujaCabra (12:09 AM): Taking the piece of paper carefully, Gracian folds it and slips the address into his thin leather wallet. "Thank you," he repeats, "I'll contact Abbie as soon as possible." Casting a look at Shepard, Gracian turns and begins to approach the door. Shepard rises on cue and, looking steadily at Thomas for a beat, exits into an adjoining room
AgujaCabra (12:09 AM): to find his hat and coat. "Expect a phone call from me either tonight or tomorrow," Gracian adds, turning back towards Thomas. "We will keep you informed."
NerwenGreen (12:13 AM): "Thank you," Thomas answers, nodding again in acknowledgement. He moves toward the front door, pausing to wait for Shepard to join him. "I apologize for taking up so much of your time tonight - I know you were busy," he says to Gracian.
AgujaCabra (12:20 AM): Dismissing Thomas' apology with a friendly wave of the hand, Gracian flashes another broad, but muted smile. "Nothing that couldn't wait. I'm not on a strict schedule, and you haven't wasted my time tonight..." He pauses, looking for Shepard, who steps out from around the dividing wall a moment later; pulling on the
AgujaCabra (12:20 AM): second sleeve of his thick coat, with his hat tucked lightly under one arm. As Gracian opens the door to let Thomas out, Welsh dashes over from his spot beside the green chair, and puts a possessive hand on Gracian's jacket hem. Gracian looks at him sternly, as he holds the door for Thomas.
NerwenGreen (12:24 AM): Thomas looks down at Welsh for a moment, smiling slightly, then steps out onto the porch. Turning, he waves slightly at Welsh and Gracian as he waits for Shepard to exit. "Have a good evening, both of you," he says.
AgujaCabra (12:28 AM): Welsh smiles mischievously up at Thomas, and darts forward to close the door on him, before Gracian can say anything more. "Rylan Welsh..., " Thomas can hear Gracian correct the boy through the door, and then a brief scuffling ensues... the end of which is the door latch fastening, and a series of quick footsteps running away on the carpet.
AgujaCabra (12:28 AM): [meh. oops. ^^ I meant to make it obvious that Gracian was more amused than anything else]
NerwenGreen (12:30 AM): A bit startled for a moment, Thomas continues to stand on the porch, vaguely amused, as he waits to see if Shepard is going to come out.
AgujaCabra (12:32 AM): [how long would he wait around? :p ]
NerwenGreen (12:32 AM): About ten minutes or so.
AgujaCabra (12:32 AM): [whoah.]
NerwenGreen (12:32 AM): [?]
AgujaCabra (12:32 AM): [does he want to talk to Shepard about something :p ? ]
NerwenGreen (12:33 AM): [umm .. he kind of wants to know what time and where they're meeting for tomorrow :p]
AgujaCabra (12:33 AM): [ah. hm... maybe you guys can do more surveillance work than just Strauss' place.. :p ]
NerwenGreen (12:34 AM): [is Shepard not coming out the front door?]
AgujaCabra (12:36 AM): Approximately three minutes later, the front latch turns again, And Shepard emerges from Gracian's front door. He stops when he notices Thomas, and turns to carefully shut the door, before taking a questioning step towards him on the wooden porch.
AgujaCabra (12:36 AM): [well... originally Shepard and Gracian were going somewhere together. Now Gracian needs to find someone to sit for Welsh first... agh. He should recruit Thomas ^^ ]
NerwenGreen (12:36 AM): [urk]
AgujaCabra (12:37 AM): [aw... no :p ? ]
NerwenGreen (12:37 AM): [I guess he could ask :p .. Thomas would probably do it, too]
AgujaCabra (12:37 AM): [haha. Welsh wouldn't be too much of a pain ^^ ]
NerwenGreen (12:38 AM): "What time and where are we meeting tomorrow night?" Thomas asks, not moving from his place on the porch. "I am free after about 9:30."
AgujaCabra (12:45 AM): Shepard adjusts his coat with a slightly self conscious gesture, casting a short glance out onto the dimly lit street beyond Gracian's property, before looking back to Thomas again. "Meet me at the end of the Garden district; Yorkshire and Kinniard, at 11:00 PM. , " he responds after a moment of thought, "... We may have additional work by tomorrow night, but we can discuss the details then."

NerwenGreen (12:48 AM): "All right," Thomas answers, bowing his head slightly in acknowledgement.

AgujaCabra (12:52 AM): Shepard regards Thomas from underneath the rim of his dark hat, offering a small nod in silent 'farewell,' before stepping down quickly off the porch and onto the gravel driveway below.

NerwenGreen (12:54 AM): Thomas follows after a moment, walking behind Shepard at a short distance until they reach the end of the driveway. Then he turns to walk toward home.

AgujaCabra (12:55 AM): so... what are Thomas' plans?
AgujaCabra (12:55 AM): not that we can play more tonight.. I just want to know :p
NerwenGreen (12:55 AM): he's going to beckon a crow as soon as he gets into the woods, and send it to find Chauncey with an invitation to visit him at his house if he's interested. Then he's going to try and get ahold of Devin.