Time Messiah Chronicles (IC/PG-16/Not Started/Not Accepting)

[Raine]

Hosted by Raine
Co-Hosted by Choas Sonic
Original RP

[IMG]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/FU7j8.png[/IMG]

“Sir?” the gentle voice shook him awake.

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/744309e183d007cc6747f052cddbb8d0163ac9e6-1.png[/img]
The white haired man looked up from his seat to a uniformed waitress who was appearing rather distressed. She must have assumed her action disturbed him, “I could come back later if you prefer,” she mumbled off. Her English was littered with the thick accent of her seemingly first language of French but it was sufficient enough to be understood. Adam shielded his eyes from the electric lighting as he adjusted, “What is it?”

The girl responded reassured, “Madam Gaulle and her guest are awaiting your company.”

Sir Voss rose from his seat; he must have passed unconscious waiting. His constant travelling was eating away at him; he felt the bags forming underneath his eyes and weariness in what should be his youthful muscles. Still, there is no time to rest even more so now that the game’s start is only hours away. It has been standard for the Louvre to host various men and women of influence to celebrate the New Year. The convenience of the museum’s party for the fortunate and exploiting and the activation of the artificer seals is no coincidence. The curator’s role has borne many secrets in the mysteries of the world; the Artificer’s Game is no exception.

As Adam walked he took note of the various aged objects and historical pieces secured under glass and guard. The Louvre has its ways of making one feel intimidated without actual provocation. Normally on the eve of the next year, the museum has no shortage of visitors however with the cooperation of the curator only guests are allowed within the premises. Finally, the white haired man came to an embellished mahogany twin doors properly guarded on each side. It wasn’t a moment before the sound of the phonograph flooded the air with orchestras and instrumentals.

His hands gripped at his dinner coat, pulling sharply to straighten. Adam’s face glowed with a faux smile, as he entered the fray. As expected his time was well spent as he shook hands with nobility and industrialists alike, the few places the two were without conflict. There was an atmosphere unique to the upper echelon social parties, masquerades of greetings and smiles fueled by envy and greed. It would beautiful is it weren’t for the fact that the participants are parasitic on a broken system they suckle off on.

Adam escaped socialization long enough to breathe until his eyes finally caught the phonograph. A marvelous invention but for now, still a rare one; Voss approached the machine in awe of its ability to reproduce the sound of skilled musical hands by means of a wax disc. His wonderment entranced Adam to be shortsighted as an unknown man placed his hand on Adam’s shoulder much to his surprise. As he turned to face the man, the initiator spoke, “Amazing is it not? It was a stroke of ingenuity coupled with merely accident. The trickiest part of invention was never how something works but rather what can it be used for.”

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/13d3493a2b65a87406fdedd61e9a805d5e964189.jpg[/img]
Adam stood silent as he inquiringly stared at the man, his hair fairly wild and unkempt; he seemed not the type to be neither accustomed nor frequent guest of these sorts of parties. Finally Adam realized he had been staring and broke glance, as the unknown man chuckled and offered his hand, “The name’s Edison.”

Voss felt a chill run up his spine; he had heard a great deal of this man yet had never met him. Still introductions were in order, Adam took his hand, “Voss, may I ask why you concern yourself with these formalities.”
Edison answered plainly, “I was asked.”

Adam raised an eyebrow, “By who-“, before his statement finished a cringe echoed in his limbs as an eerily familiar voice louder than the rest came from the crowd.

“Adam!?” the voice cried with rejoice and what one could interpret as masochistic pleasure.

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/f2e118c29a99af360b642e94908ac1e2291f10d4.jpg[/img]
Voss turned unwillingly to face the voice, a well groomed man stood in its place. His face equal parts suave and ill-intent. His mannerisms came as friendly as his grin seemed to crawl from ear to ear, “I didn’t hope to see you here, Adam.”

“As did I, John, I hadn’t have thought that these parties were so strapped for cash they’d offer you an invitation in exchange for such Faustian deal,” Adam had no intent to mince words with such a devil.

Morgan only let out a hearty laugh, “Come now, Adam, are our paths to prosperity so different or is it your euro-centric superiority complex with the "New World"? Perhaps if you actually attempted to innovate yourself you wouldn’t be as jealous. ”

Edison gave an awkward smile, as he attempted to place himself between the squabbling men. The dispute ended rather quickly than usual, the two had been at ends since Adam made his fortune and clash with J. P. Morgan over international dealings with the Americans. The two could never settle on a mutually beneficial deal and eventually that escalated to a personal feud between the former British titan and Financial Caesar. Voss had enough once Edison intervened and left the two.

The white haired man, moved to the open balcony to vent his frustration with fresh air. Paris was gorgeous at night, the lights in the sky and lights of the city blending into a surreal landscape. His thoughts drifted back to Edison who was a powerful force that was shaping the world. Adam’s eyes drifted to a lone man leaning against the stone fencing. “Curator,” Adam asked to confirm.

Before an answer came, a massive chime rippled through the air. Eleven rings, the game was closing in. The man he called out to now approached him, “They should be here already,” he stated solemnly.

It’s true, while being in Paris was not a requirement of the game it had become tradition. Any patron would attempt to at least scout competition here, even those would it would eventually discover. The Eternity game had practically become synonymous with Paris to those with knowledge. Both advantageous and not, it allowed for a chance to find opponents before they find you and at the same time, they could do the same to you. At the stroke of midnight, the insignias on artificers would activate and allow for their abilities turning this planet into a battlefield for 12 men and women. A grin appeared on Adam’s face, “What do you think?”

The curator turned to the view, “I have no opinion, my only responsibility to cater to those involved before the start. My predecessors have even been known to lone artifacts to the unfortunately chosen. However once the clock strikes twelve I would prefer you keep the collateral damage as far away from my museum as possible,” his face was stoic and cold.

Just an hour, Adam thought. His eyes shut as he felt the year end winds knowing what it brings in its wake. Just one more hour, his thoughts wandered as each artificer wandered throughout the city patient for 1899, and their chance… to fight for their wish… to prove their worth… to become more than human…

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pW_XOTxFAiQ[/media]

[Love of Ghibli]

It was snowing, what a peaceful small little snowflakes falling from the sky over the gorgeous city of lights. Batel would simply sit on the balcony sipping on hot chocolate and enjoying the beautiful scenery that the nature gifted his eyes. It was odd that though it wasn't spring such quite and tranquility was still available and even though there were no flowers there was a delightful smell in the air. The smell of fresh cooked bread that was seeping out of the kitchen below, the smell of his warm hot chocolate, and the complete absence of pestering human beings. There he was just sitting bundled up in his pea-coat and earmuffs trying to flip through the pages of his Orikata and seeing all of the things he could make with one sheet of paper thanks to origami. This moment in time was precious, this is what people should refer to as heaven. It was moments like these where people could see Batel genuinely smile.

Of course all good things must come to an end. As he was looking outward to the sky he could hear the footsteps of someone approaching. His face immediately sunk into the detached and bothered persona that he is known for. In his defense his family was being a killjoy. "Young master your grandfather wishes to see you." spoke a tame voice that mysteriously made its way to his ear. Clearly it was his [url="http://browse.deviantart.com/?q=maid#/d1zwbfp"]maid[/url] Charlotte and with that he simply made eye contact with her and walked inside. Speaking to her seemed to have slipped his mind. Though she was used to it by this by now. As Batel walked down the halls of his families estate he reached his grandfather's study with little effort. Ever since the clock symbol appeared on the back of his hand he has been spending a lot of time in this room. He stood at the door to the study and rolled his eyes for this whole re-writing history business did not seem to really effect him. The whole goal was to re-write the family status and maintain power and nobility, but do to the heavy investment in the steel industry and the fact that this family is full of murderers that shouldn't change. In truth it just wasn't interesting, but the artifact was pretty nice.

After a heavy sigh Batel opened the door and there his grandfather was staring at a roaring fire with a parcel neatly wrapped on the coffee table next to him. [url="http://browse.deviantart.com/?q=Victor#/dgttf5"]Hermite[/url] turned around and smiled at his grandson and welcomed him with open arms. Though it always disturbed Batel that his grandfather looked so remarkably young despite being in his early 70's. There might be some validity to those vampire rumors. Nevertheless it would be rude to turn down his grandfather's hug so he accepted.

[color=#000000]OH Batel you've made me so proud this last month, you've endured so much combat training and read so many books and you didn't complain even once. [/color]
[color=#000080]Well mother did help out with the research so I won't be taking all the credit[/color]. Batel replied so deadpan and monotone it was clear that he was mentally exiting this conversation already.
[color=#000000]No matter I have a gift for you.[/color] Hermite said knowing that would bring Batel back into focus, which it did quite expediently. Hermite flicked his wrist and drew a knife from his sleeve [color=#000080][i]Creepy[/i][/color] and cut open the parcel. Batel's eyes slightly widened with interest and then he could only look puzzled as there was just sheets of steel.
[color=#000080]You shouldn't have...[/color]his disdain is pretty obvious at this moment. His eye twitched and his gripped his hand on his artifact and then it hit him. [color=#000080]Oh[/color] is all he could mutter as his grandfather was pretty crafty with this strategy.
[color=#000000]I knew you would figure it out my boy, now you carry about five sheets of this tempered steel with you at all time and I'm sure you can handle the rest. We don't have much time till the games begin and we're late for a party at the Louve anyway. [/color]
[color=#000080]Are my parents coming?[/color] Batel asked with odd genuine concern.
[color=#000000]Well Junon and Mason will be there...and they won't be there.[/color] Hermite said with an oddly villainous snicker. Batel could only struggle not to roll his eyes. Why couldn't his grandfather be honest for once? Mommy and Daddy are going as snipers. Its not like Batel wasn't aware of what his family did for a living there was just no reason to participate because no one ever asked and no reason to object because why would he care about the lives of other people? Hermite lifted the dense pieces of steel into a classy messenger bag for Batel and once Batel looked inside he could see a saber hilt. Hermite thought of everything apparently.

About a half an hour late Batel and his grandfather arrived at this event at the Louve. While Batel was clearly annoyed at the entire exercise the second he walked through the door he transformed into auto perform mode. His smile appeared genuinely, his manners were on point, and no one could really tell he was going through the motions of conversation. While he was dancing the dance of socializing his gaze would repeatedly drift to this random white haired individual. He seemed to vanish in an out of people or maybe the dance floor known as conversation demanded constant mobility but nevertheless this human was...interesting to say the least. From the glances Batel he was definitely older but not by much. Though he was sure of his lineage which was also intriguing. Batel noticed some heated exchange over something seemingly causing the man to move to the balcony. Without even realizing it Batel had followed this gentleman. His heart was beating slightly faster than he was used to so he tried to remain hidden. It seems as if Batel was developing an attraction.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

[i][url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssB3O3smjBc"]Katekyo Hitman Reborn - Opening 1 Instrumental[/url][/i]

[color=#40E0D0]"Leon, please don't dawdle. We are running quite late as it is."[/color]

[img]http://i529.photobucket.com/albums/dd333/Danuve_L/Render/byakuran.png[/img]

The white haired man, Evan Toshiki, called after the young man that was accompanying him. The young man was just too excited and fascinated with the sights that he started spotting through the small street in Paris. Evan simply sighed and walked toward his young counterpart. [color=#40E0D0]"Leon, did you hear me?"[/color]

[color=#808080]"Oh sorry Mr. Toshiki..." [/color]the black haired teen said, with a nervous smile.

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/Anime-Guys-anime-guys-6494321-960-720.jpg[/img]

[color=#808080]"Its just the fact that Paris looks more beautiful in person than it does when someone tells you about it." [/color]then teen, Leon Boyle, replied as he kept staring at the scenery. [color=#808080]"Sorry to make you just stand there Mr. Toshiki."[/color]

Evan just stood there, smiling as he patted Leon's shoulder. [color=#40E0D0]"Its alright Leon. I should have remembered this is the first time you've been out of the U.S. And you don't have to keep calling me 'Mr. Toshiki', its Evan."[/color] he said as he walked away. [color=#40E0D0]"Now don't dawdle this time, we do need to reach the desired meeting location."[/color]

With a nod, Leon kept moving with Evan. He remembered right away, there was a reason for this arrival in Paris: to participate in this so called "Eternity's Game". That and Leon remembered hearing about Evan trying to meet up with someone that was a resident in Paris: Louvre. He however never met or heard of this man before, but he knew he'd have a strong meeting with him and he'd help him as time went on...at least he hoped.

[color=#808080][i]So this will basically be the start of the Eternity's Game...and I'm gonna stand above all others. [/i][/color]Leon thought, smirking as he glanced at his left fingerless glove to see a gem on it: [size=3][font=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][size=4][background=rgb(252, 252, 252)]Date Masamune No H[/background][/size][/font][/size]ōseki(Gem of Masamune Date). [color=#808080][i]I'm going to make sure I win this...and actually think of an idea to do WHEN I win.[/i][/color]

[ListenToLife]

The snow fell thick on the streets of London, coating the great city a beautiful, innocent white. The factories had closed for the day, and the air was clear for once. Shops windows glowed brightly, the wonderful new 'lightbulb' invention decorating almost every store. Laughter filled the air, especially as one walked past the Thames. The river was frozen again, as it always did during the cold British winters. The snow that had initially covered the now solid river had been moved to the banks of the ice, and the natural ice-rink was now flooded with skaters and lovers, sliding across the ice in each others arms. Those who had tired of skating were hunched at the sides of the river, holding hot cups of cocoa or coffee, laughing to each other. A small group of teenagers had begun to sing christmas carols as they walked across the snow littered banks of the Thames, and those who they passed had started to join in.

The streets, they were less populated. Most enjoyed the winter holidays on the Thames, or at home. Few found the need to shop or wander during these times, when the wind nipped at the fingers and bruised the nose. Footprints in the powder were plentiful though, and many led towards the paths down to the river. Despite the many open shops, very few footprints led into the open doors; most of them instead led out as the trusting citizens of the inner city left for a break at the Thames.

It was from one of these such stores that our man first appeared. From the open doorway, a pale man walked, holding a small briefcase in his left hand. He walked with a gait that suggested confidence and professionalism, his right hand pressed inside the pocket of his smart, black trousers. His well-polished black shoes crunched the snow underneath, and seemed to shine more than usual thanks to the melting of the snow that got on top of them. The man wore a smart white shirt, neatly ironed and lacking any visible creases, with a simple black and white striped tie and a plain black blazer over the top, providing just enough heat to avoid him from shivering.

His unkempt hair bounced slightly as he walked, and he wore a sly grin as he strode confidently down the long street, passing no-one as he escaped from his obvious theft. He looked down at the briefcase with satisfaction, and turned from the main street into a small side alley, where a dark black carriage was waiting, its curtains drawn and the rider sitting glumly on his seat, shivering slightly as he rubbed his arms, the reins to the 2 horses - one brown & one grey - tied securely to the bar in front of him. Our man gave a short nod to the driver and handed him a small, silver coin from his right pocket, before stepping up to the carriage door, which opened just short of the man's nose.

"You're late." A gruff voice muttered, as two electric blue eyes stared straight at our man from the darkness. "We've gotta be in Paris by sundown, an' your detours aren't 'elpin' our schedule, Phillip." The owner of the eyes said, in a thick Yorkshire accent. The eyes seem to project a feeling of irritation and coldness, and yet familiarity and warmth at the same time; as if the person was annoyed at Phillip, but used to the poor punctuality.

Phillip chuckled and ducked into small carriage, sitting himself opposite the shadowed figure. He got comfortable rather quickly on the leather seats, taking no notice of how expensive the carriage must have been. "Just getting us a bit of breakfast, David. Gotta keep our stomachs full for the day ahead." Phillip stated, in a much more educated & intelligent sounding tone of voice; lifting the briefcase to the seat next to him and opening it to reveal a thin, yellow and red, bread-like item.

"What is it?" David asked, an arm appearing from his shadowy figure to twist a small knob on his left, which increased the brightness of the gas lamp above their heads. The increase in light revealed a middle-aged man with thick, black hair; his skin was pale and ill-looking and large bags gathered under his eyes. The leader of the thieves guild was stressed, it seemed, and a small but growing balding spot on the back of his head proved that.

"It's a new, Italian dish; the Pizza Margherita." Phillip explained, lifting the meal and its plate from the paper packaging that had kept it safe. "Not even 10 years old, apparently. Invented especially for their Queen, that Margherita woman." Phillip added, pulling a sharp knife from the inside of his blazer. He sunk the blade into the pizza, cutting off two small slices. "The italian shop down the road just started making them, it seems. Would've cost a ton had they been in." He muttered, before lifting the thin slice to his mouth and taking a small bite. He pulled the food away from him and chewed a few times, before swallowing and grinning.

"Is it good then?" David asked, reaching for the other slice. Phillip merely nodded eagerly, chuckling before he took another bite, hardly able to hold his joy at such a delicious meal. David had a more toned response to the food, though it was obvious on his face that he enjoyed it.

As they both finished their slices, Phillip placed the pizza back into his briefcase and wrapped it once more in the paper, before closing the Briefcase once again. "We shall save more for lunch, I presume?" Phillip stated questioningly, receiving a short but pleased nod from his boss. "Now, 'tis on to the ports of Dover, and to set sail for the great city of Paris!" Phillip shouted, loud enough for the driver to hear. He nodded and untied the reins, and the carriage set off, trundling along the empty streets of London as they headed south.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was three hours before they reached the ports at Dover, and another 2 before their private boat hit the shores of France. They comandeered another Carriage, Phillip greeting the driver in fluent French, before they set off for Paris, finishing of the last of their now cold pizza as they rode. They saw the lights of Paris within another 5 hours, the bright city contrasting against the now darkening sky.

"It's now 9 o'clock." David muttered, looking down at a small watch on his left wrist. "We might be a little bit late. This event was supposed to start at 10, sharp." His voice had changed, the Yorkshire accent thinning and his words becoming more ennunciated. Perhaps Phillip's new voice was having an effect; the well-educated and fluid vocals of the upper-class londoners wer almost infectious in their ways.

Phillip merely shrugged and kicked the empty briefcase under his chair seat; a gift for the next person to use the carriage perhaps. "We are hardly the type to regular these sort of things. I doubt they'd even appreciate common folk like us." Phillip sighed and pulled back the curtain on the side window, watching as the density of houses slowly grew, and the number of people slowly increased. The streets that had been a powdery white as they approached Paris - the snow fall being only light around this area - had changed to the grey slush of snow that had been trode on a lot, and the sound of chattering people started to fill the air. As they approached the Arc de Triomphe, the Carriage slowed, and halted just past the Arc and on the road to the Louvre.

"Merci beaucoup." Phillip muttered, tossing a spare Franc at the driver. The carriage driver merely nodded his appreciation and rode off, while Phillip and David strolled towards the Louvre. Due to their rather slow walking, they arrived outside the grand palace at about 11 o'clock, about an hour late for the festivities. They rushed inside, David hanging his leather coat up at the entrance to reveal his own straight black suit, and entered the main room, rather subtly by normal standards. The party seemed to be fully underway, and the curious Gramophone invention in the corner of the room was emitting some virtuoso piano music at the current time; the sound of the ivory keys almost life like, despite there being no piano in the room.

Phillip and David split up at this point, with David going to meet with influencial people and Phillip going to meet women, who he seemed to get along with quite well. However, none of them seemed to keep his attention, and his eyes kept flicking towards a door opening towards a balcony at the end of the room, upon which stood 2 men; one whom he recognised from Phonographs as the Curator of the Museum. Ignoring his current dance, Phillip pushed through the crowd towards the Balcony, bumping into a tall, long haired man as he walked past. "Désolé." Phillip muttered, smiling at the man. "Quel est votre nom? Parlez-vous Anglais?" Phillip asked.

[Love of Ghibli]

Batel was quietly trying to pay attention to the conversation between this mystery man and the curator of the museum and it seems as though they were talking about the games. This innocent flirtation quickly took a rather serious undertone if one of those men was an artificer then they would have to die, luckily there was little time left before the games began so there was a good chance that Batel could ambush the other participant. Then again there was the fact about an innocent bystander. Meh who cares? Kill them both and all of your problems will be solved he thought. Unfortunately for him Batel was so wrapped up in himself and his plans that he didn't even notice this stranger sneak up on him and subsequently bump into him. This shook Batel out of focus for a second as he had to shift back into his auto perform and notice the person who just collided with him.

Well this human certainly wasn't ugly wasn't French either though its nice to see that he picked up the language. They say that when you speak to someone in their native language it speaks to their heart and this new person almost pulled a heart string if Batel was the type of person to care about other humans in that manner. Batel turned on his smile and whatnot and realized if these two were to have conversation then that could alert the curator and the mystery man that was on the balcony. With the element of surprise gone it could turn into an uneven battle. Best to defuse the situation before it got totally out of hand. "[color=#000080]Um English..yes I know the language, and my name is Batel Le'Pendu of the Le'Pendu family. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Mr....?[/color]" clearly Batel was reaching to learn this person's name before giving a quick exit.

[ListenToLife]

(Moving the post. My apologies.)

[a bad post]

Alexandria stood the courtyard of the Louvre, shivering due to her poor choice in evening wear, talking to another woman, who had obviously chosen a better outfit for cold night. If anyone were to walk past them it would seem as though they were having a normal conversation, maybe about a lost lover as one woman's make-up seemed to bleeding but...

[color=#800080]"I'll be mingling with the guests, you just enjoy your rich, pretty little heart out, if you need me just scream." [/color]Though it would seem as though this first woman was handing the other a rag with which to wipe her make-up, inside the rag though was concealed a small knife.[color=#800080] "If one of them gets to close, then use this," [/color]Then pulling out a make-up bag so the woman could reapply her make-up the first woman opened the bag to reveal a small revolver, [color=#800080]"this may not look like much, but if they get to far for you to use that," [/color]indicating the knife already in the second woman's purse,[color=#800080]"then this will do just fine, now let's really reapply some of your make-up you look hideous." [/color]The second woman nodded placing the small gun in her hand bag, while musing at how small it was, no wonder it was called a pocket gun.

With the second woman's make-up reapplied the two walked in together, the second woman trying very hard to resist the urge to sprint into the ballroom. [color=#800000]"I'll see you soon Sadie," [/color]the second woman said to her friend.

The first woman winked [color="#800080"] "try to have a good time Alexandria, these kind of things are once in a lifetime experiences." [/color]Sadie waved her good-byes and the two women wondered to opposite sides of the ballroom, all the while Alexandria was wishing she had the social skills of her bodyguard. They had both expected her father's assassins here. Not only was this a gathering of many important figures, but a gathering of artificers as well, Alexandria was sure someone was going to die tonight, Sadie was there to make sure she wasn't that someone.

Alexandria felt the warmth starting to return to her body, and was happy that the red color, due to the dilating of her blood, was beginning to leave as her body began to warm. Alexandria silently cursed her mother for making her wear this ridulous outfit. Surely she couldn't make an escape in high heels, but unfortunately combat boots aren't the proper evening wear. She would be running nowhere in this evening gown anyways, the black dress trailed behind, and no way could she run without tripping in this. Alexandria ran her hand threw her hair, though normally braided for this evening she had let it hang freely.

Uncomfortable with crowds Alexandria walked awkwardly around, not exactly sure what to do, she couldn't hold conversation with the other guests, it wasn't that she couldn't speak french she was just not interested in what they were saying. Of course she certainly didn't want to dance with any of them, she didn't care enough to pay attention to what they were saying, why touch them. What she did take note of was a man she recognized as the curator, and another man having a conversation. What she didn't notice was the two men in front of her, and that was when she bumped into one knocking herself onto the ground. [color=#800000]"Je suis desolee," [/color]she looked up at the man she had bumped into, he didn't seem as though he was very rich, and his hair was unkempt. Alexandria had not yet picked herself up off the ground yet, nor did she seemed inclined to as she was still very embarrassed her cheeks becoming more and more red by the second.

[ListenToLife]

"Ahh, good. I was afraid my French would slip at some point." Phillip chuckled, scratching the nape of his neck in a seemingly nervous fashion, ruffling the hair there. "I do apologize for my lack of caution - got a little caught up in the party. My name would be Phillip Smithson, Mr Le'Pendu." He added, sobering his face to a polite smile before offering his hand. He could see that this person was apparently tense; Phillip had intruded on something, and was curious to what. It did, however, become apparent as Batel glanced towards the Curator on the balcony.

Phillip almost chuckled again, and he was entertained by the irony that they were both after the same men at this moment; the curator and his friend. Perhaps for the same reason as well - was this man a.... No, Phillip couldn't tell yet. There was no need to presume. He'd find out once the competition started, and wouldn't hesitate to kill. But for now, it was merely suitable that he befriend as many people as he could; gain allies in the form of Patrons and gain the trust of possible Artificers, so it would be that much easier to stab them in the back.

"You seem nervous, mon ami; some wine would do you good." Phillip stated, motioning a serving boy over to them with his left hand. He grabbed himself one of the wine glasses on the tray and nodded towards another, inviting Batel to grab another. "Try to relax, 'tis a party after all. And aren't the French famed for their love of wine?" He asked, lightly joking with his stereotyping. He took a sip of his wine while peering over the rim of the glass, searching this Le'Pendu for any clock insignias, or anything else of interest. The man gave nothing away, almost like a blank canvas, indifferent to the world. Interesting....


Sadly, the glass of wine was launched from his hand before he got much of a drink; the blood red liquid drenching the serving boy as a - rather attractive - young woman collided with him, knocking her to the ground. Ignoring the serving boy, who was slowly losing his balance, Phillip turned to the woman on the floor and crouched, offering his hand as some assistance. "It seems I'm not the only clumsy one tonight; Vouz allez bien, Madame?" Phillip chuckled, his face in a comforting smile as he helped the nervous woman from the ground. "Je m'appelle Phillip; et vouz?"

[Love of Ghibli]

Batel mused the stranger known as Phillip with a smile at the nervous comment. Though Batel was no fool he could tell Phillip was scanning his body parts looking for something but that is only natural seeing as Batel is only truly concerned with himself so people noticing him is something he would hone in on. Not being sure on how to reply to the invitation for wine he Batel simply looked around for a second hoping there would be some way he could get out of this unfortunate situation. Luckily for him the fates had simply answered his prayers and some woman from some place most likely from somewhere had just bumped into this new Phillip. Batel could care less about the woman who was on the ground or the waiter she drenched. The only thing that truly mattered was that this was the opportunity he needed. As Phillip went to the aid of this young madam. [color=#000080]Well it seems as if you have company. I would hate to overstay my welcome, so I will go partake of some famous French wine as you put i[/color]t. Batel gave a polite bow to Phillip and this other human female that was in his presence and quickly made his exit back into the crowd.

Normally an attentive person like Batel would have noticed that there were people all drifting to the same location outside of the crowd but unfortunately for him he is quite from all things that do not immediately benefit himself. Though his grandfather was able to watch the whole scene go down from a distance. Hermite suspected that these two may be artificers but that would be to hard to determine. The Louvre is a pretty important place and there are a lot of important people here, it wouldn't be unheard of for someone to try to get a moment alone with the curator. Hermite looked at his watch and noted that there was still some time left. Junon and Mason should be in place by now and they should be able to put bullets through any artificers that would have been revealed at the stroke of midnight.

[a bad post]

Alexandria toke the man's hand and lifted herself up off the floor, smiling at him. [color="#800000"]"I'm quite fine, thank you very much. I do speak english though your french is impeccable. My name is Alexandria." [/color]She noticed the other man leaving, saying something about french wine. "I am sorry about your wine," Alexandria said as she redid the clasp to her purse, making sure the knife and gun remained unseen, as this man could very well be a cold blooded killer or an artificer, which were probably one in the same. [color=#800000]"So what brings you to France, Mr. ... oh I'm sorry I didn't get your last name." [/color]Alexandria nervously picked at the straps of her purse, [i][color="#800000"]so many things could go wrong here, maybe I should go get Sadie, or... no I'm becoming to paranoid. This man can't be an artificer, can he? Mostly only the rich are artificers, but mother has said there have been several exceptions.[/color][/i]

Alexandria noticed, and tried to make a save and take suspicion off herself.[color=#800000] "Oh, I'm sorry. Its... just, well... I don't socialize a lot. Being taught etiquette, and... well using are two very different things."[/color] Alexandria laughed nervously, desperately trying to think of something to carry this conversation her eyes danced around the room. [color="#800000"]"So isn't a beautiful night? Are you from Paris, its such a beautiful city don't you think?" [/color]Alexandria was shocked at her own it was as if she wasn't in control of her own mouth. At this Alexandria started an incessant, nervous babel not sure at all what to do several times her voice broke, and Alexandria was close to tears, which sadly wasn't uncommon to the poor, anti-social woman.

[Aix]

"Augustus... Johann... you remember Paris, do you not?" asked Earl Hector Rosengold softly as their carriage rolled into the heart of Paris, referring back six years ago, the last time the family had came to France. Of course, during the last visit, Selena Rosengold was still alive.

Happy times... Augustus to a pause from gazing outside at the scenery to close his eyes and remember his mother. The family was a lot louder and more cheerful back then. Augustus remembered happily playing a mirthful tune on his flute for the family while they road in the carriage. In reality, Augustus had just been playing for his mother, desperate to win her appreciation over and over. Augustus remembered that nine-year-old Johann laughed and taunted him each time Augustus fumbled on a note due to a bump in the road but his mother would pat him lightly on the head to tell him it was fine and Augustus could only beam. Their father was really only a spectator there, content to simply quietly watch the his family, but it was undeniable that he was a lot happier when his wife was alive.

"Yes, I still remember... mother was still with us then..." replied Augustus slowly opening his eyes again. "How could I not remember?" He looked outside again. "We climbed to the top of the Eiffel Tower," he said, pointing at the highest man-made structure in the world, visible even from the distance. "Such a wondrous view from there."

Hector nodded and turned Johann. "You were only nine at the time, but, surely..."

"I do," said Johann curtly, cutting his father off. Hector creased his eyebrows at Johann's rudeness but then his face softened in sympathy for his younger son. Johann had never truly captured Selena's affection. No, Selena loved his eldest son, the musical prodigy, the most. It was understandable that Johann was often jealous. Hector regretted that he was seldom at home.

Their carriage came to a stop. They had arrived at their hotel, Hôtel Ritz, the grand palatial hotel that had just opened just half a year ago. The three of them stepped outside into the chilly winter night. Hector turned back to the driver. "You will return here at 11:00 pm [i]sharp[/i]. [i]Comprends[/i]?" The Earl looked at his pocket watch, it was 8 o' clock. "You have [i]three hours[/i] to do as you please. But there will be consequences if you do not arrive on time."

The driver nodded. "Yes, milord." Hector held the man's gaze for a second before turning back to the hotel and the carriage drove on.

As they entered the hotel, they were greeted by a host of twelve fashionably dressed middle-aged men and women. "The Twelve," whispered Hector, there was a respective tone in his voice. Augustus has had a glimpse of some of these people before. They were the Twelve Olympians, the twelve leaders of the Olympian Society. He took this rare opportunity put the twelve people, seven men and five women, under closer scrutiny. Few could command the respect of an Earl such as his father, these people were powerful indeed.

The one who stood in front stepped forwards. He was an old, perhaps fifties or sixties, but tall and very powerfully built man with square features and long, very dark, curly hair. He extended his hand, not to Earl Hector as one would usually, but to Augustus. "Viscount Augustus... Silvertongue. It is nice to see you again," said the man. Amongst the Olympians themselves was a leader as well. That is Achilles Kastellanos.

"My pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr. Achilles Kastellanos," said Augustus politely. Each of the Olympians proceeded to shake each of the Rosengolds' hands. Augustus stored each of their names in his head for future reference. It would not do to insult any of these people in telling them that you have forgotten their name, lest they think you impudent. At last, every hand was shaken and Kastellanos spoke again.

"Your rooms have already been reserved. Doubtless, it was a long and tiresome journey and you would perhaps wish to retire for now. We will see you again at the party," he said.
[hr]
The three men of the Rosengolds arrived at the Louvre at half-past eleven. They were later than they had hoped. Their driver had foolishly decided to spend his tip on drink and they had to quickly hire another one.

"Wouldn't the Louvre be bustling with commoners at this time of the year," asked Johann, nonchalantly looking around at the other guests. Boredly, he looked up and held a hand out to catch snowflakes.

"The party has sealed off entrance to everyone but those privileged enough to be invited," replied Hector. "We have the entire museum to ourselves." He turned to his eldest son. "Now is not the time to be gazing at the works of the past. We must be keeping our eyes out for your competition and perhaps learn about them. Knowledge is power. Know that. Keep an eye out for anyone who seems different or bears a clock mark."

Augustus nodded . "I will," he said solemnly. Hector looked at his son. For once, his son was taking something other than music seriously.

He nodded approvingly. "Good. Then, go mingle with the visitors. Stay moving. Do not tarry. You have a mission. As an Artificer, you must personally assess each of these people."
[hr]
Augustus walked through the crowd rather briskly. People shot angry glares at him, but suddenly realized that before them was a famous musician. It wasn't long before a circle of people had moved around him.

"It's Silvertongue!" "Viscount Augustus Rosengold, the famous musician!" People babbled around them. They didn't look like they were going to move out of his way any time soon. Augustus scowled. He hadn't been expecting this. "PLAY FOR US!" Someone said, rather loudly and Augustus found himself slowly pushed forwards towards a dais. He resigned and began walking forth of his own accord.

[color=#daa520]"I will be playing only one song tonight," [/color]announced Augustus, drawing the attention of all the guests at the party. [color=#daa520]"In celebration of the new year. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to bring your ears such beauty and wondrous melodies you have never heard, could never imagine before."[/color] He smiled to himself, enjoying the crowds attention. He removed the bag he was carrying from his shoulders and retrieved from it a golden lyre. People looked at each other startled. Most of them were confused at the unfamiliar instrument. [color=#daa520]"Lords and ladies, this is a lyre. A fantastic instrument which its origins lies in Ancient Greeks, before the Renaissance, before the Dark Ages, before, even, the Romans!" [/color]The guests became more and more excited and whispered amongst each other, the musicians who were to serve as accompaniment there seemed worried for they had never played with a lyre in their midst. [color=#daa520]"And with this lyre, I shall play a piece not of Mendelssohn nor Wagner. I shall bring you a piece written by the legendary musician Orpheus who was the known as the Father of Songs. For this piece, I shall not need any accompaniment." [/color]Augustus closed his eyes and strummed a few chords on the lyre so resounding, beautiful and peaceful that people seemed immediately soothed and content. He began to sing, opening his mouth wide letting the wondrous sound flow out of his vocal cords. Those who observed carefully would have realized a slight silver glint on his tongue, the unmistakeable clock mark of the King's Game. The song went on for about ten minutes and the audience listened with serene, dreamy expressions on their faces. They did not seem to even notice when the song ended. Augustus was smug, content. The results of the combination between the magic of the lyre and his own prodigious talent was amazing. But, he noticed a large man striding angrily towards him and it broke him out of his revelry. He paled. It was Achilles Kastellanos. The leader of the Olympian Society gestured for him to follow. Augustus meekly complied and they wandered into the Greek collection.

"You fool! What was that? What did that serve, but to satisfy your own petty desire for the audience's appreciation and reveal yourself to all of the other Artificers!" roared Achilles. "I'm beginning to have second thoughts about you... DO NOT DO SOMETHING LIKE THIS... AGAIN!" Augustus could do nothing but nod before the powerful man's fury. "Good. Go now, perhaps the others will seek you out, perhaps not," said Achilles. Augustus nodded again and stumbled back into the main room.

[SunKistRebelution]

Johnathan could only hope to grow accustomed to the bothersome fabric of the suit forced upon him. Every so often one of his limbs would get a mind of its own and attempt to scratch one of the itches generated by the friction between the uncomfortable material and his skin. Nevertheless, he had been told that one must wear this sort of thing in high society or risk becoming an outcast. That said, the young man had weighed that option against the added physical and emotional comfort of his traditional coat and pants.

Ever since the clock had appeared on his torso, Johnathan had undergone a multiple month long ordeal to educate him on the history of those who had competed in past editions of the Eternity game. He was trained to recognize people with an air different from those around him. He was already well-versed in combat. He was forced to train tirelessly to master the ins and outs of his artifact, the Seedhorn of Cadmus, but had still not even come close to such a threshold as mastery. As he thought of his artifact, he reached down to his right hip for reassurance, where it remained strapped to the inside of his suit jacket and hidden from the eyes of others.

He couldn't help but be nervous, and it showed, apparently, because Helen put her arm in the crook of his as they walked along the entrance of the Louvre. She was not the only one accompanying him as he entered the party. Mr. Aaron Economos, her father and his primary Patron, took his naturally short, quick strides in front of them and dotting the area around the two were five nameless gentlemen whose clothes all had the same sandy brown tint to them. These five entourage members were nearly identical to each other in appearance and seemed to serve as a sort of barrier to generally anyone around John and Helen.

Once inside, Economos had told John, it was important to go out, meet with and be friendly to as many of the wealthy attendees of this event as possible. This prospect loomed greater than the potential conflict with his competitors at the event, as John's social skills always seemed to be laced with a certain ineptitude. Luckily, Helen excelled in this field and served as a more than adequate intermediary between himself and the potential Patrons. Her mediation graced him in an immeasurable way due to the fact that his French linguistic skills were nearly nonexistent.

John took a pardon from the group of upper-class investors he was conversing with to get himself a glass of wine, in order that his nerves might be calmed. As he drank, the beautiful melody of an unfamiliar song floated its way into his ears. It was soothing and happy. Too happy. Unnaturally happy, as it would seem. Slyly investigating the source of such a song, John noted this person of worth as he counted down the minutes to midnight. The young man attempted to will time to accelerate so that Helen would be out of danger, that he would not be forced to converse under so much pressure with such influential people and that he could start the competition so that his nerves would give way to his warrior's sense and instincts.

He tried to make his way over to the musician, but the young man had disappeared. John then decided to seek out Helen from amongst the crowd.

[ListenToLife]

Phillip smiled graciously as the woman took his hand, lifting her back to her feet. She greeted him as Alexandria, speaking in an English tongue rather than the French he had greeted her with; her accent revealing that she was in fact a Brit, with a very Londoner tone hidden within her voice. She complimented him quickly on his French, having apparently deduced that it was in fact his first language; probably from the fact that he resorted to that first. Or his accent, perhaps.

"The influence of my....." Phillip started, pausing for a moment to think of the right word; though he attempted to hide this hesitation beneath a comforting smile. "....business requires me to be at least semi-fluent in most European languages. French is the easiest, in my opinion." He explained, releasing her hand as she rushed to grab her purse, making a surprising fuss over the fastening of the clasp. [i]Trying to hide something perhaps? [/i]He wondered, though he doubted that she was much of a threat. Even if she did happen to be an Artificer or something similar, she seemed unprepared and anxious; she didn't appear cold-blooded enough to kill.

"I'm in Paris on business, I'm afraid." Phillip answered, shrugging his shoulders towards the wine incident. "But 'tis New Years Day, and I was granted invititation to this exclusive gathering. Best not to miss the oppurtunity." Phillip grinned, calling another serving boy over to him, again holding a few glasses of wine. He picked two from the plate and gave a polite nod to the serving boy, who rushed away before he ended up like his co-worker, who was currently drying himself off at the side of the room.

"There is more wine to replace that glass, and 'tis 'on the house' anyway." He stated, brushing away the apologies simply. He offered one of the wine glasses to Alexandria and took a sip of his own before retorting back at the woman's question. "I do believe I asked for your name first, so it would be only right that you tell me your surname before I tell you mine." Phillip stated, chuckling as he began to flirt a little. After all, it was nearing midnight on New Years, he needed a kiss didn't he.

It was as if he had forgotten about the man he had been conversing with before; but he had watched him walk off in a rush from the corner of his eye, and the face had been imprinted to memory. As a back ground of live music started up - replacing the ingenuity but repetition of the Gramophones - Phillip reminded himself to find this man once again, for he behaved much too anxiously and rushed to be here just for the party.

[Love of Ghibli]

Batel positioned himself quite distant from all these new characters that have arrived. He found himself planted on a stairwell elevated slightly above the crowd sipping wine here and there. Which was ironic seeing as he didn't even think of having wine till that Phillip stranger bumped into him. The Mr. Smithson surely does have a way with words. When Batel thought about how a stranger had a subtle effect on his thinking it pretty much unnerved him. [color=#000080]Hmmm....a criminal?[/color] he thought to himself noting that he is mostly immune to people's charm but confidence men specialize in breaking through such barriers. With his bag still around his waste he decided to pull out his opera binoculars and take a look around. For such an exclusive party there were surely a lot of people. He gazed back at Alexandria, whose name he did not know yet, and Phillip and he was trying to study Phillip's mannerisms to catch any flaw. Or that's what Batel would tell himself instead of being honest and realize he just likes looking at handsome men from a distance. That lead to him glancing back at the balcony with the curator and mystery man one of which if not both had to be an artificer. It seems they had not made sudden movements and were still talking innocently.

It was then Batel was faced to turn his gaze to the magician. Batel had recognized the human as the legendary Silvertongue and didn't really think it mattered. It was logical that a party full of influential people would have at least one celebrity. The loud man decided to play a melody for the interestingly influential and rich fan girls he seemed to have. [color=#000080][i]Pas de roturiers huh [/i][/color]he thought to himself subtly disapproving of these ladies and there mannerisms. Then the Silvertongue started to play and as his melodies filled the room Batel for one second let his guard down and decided to care about something other than himself. Actually to more precise he decided to be open to the possibility that something else in this world has some value. Nevertheless the music entered his eardrum and wrapped around his soul. His mind and seemed to fade into the the light and he saw himself on the rooftops of Tokyo in the spring time, then in the hills and plateaus of New Zealand, and finally back home relaxing in the grass on his families land basking in the sunlight letting the wonders of nature engulf him. Batel had entered Nirvana, Heaven, complete and utter zen. Unfortunately someone put a stop the music and he suddenly snapped out of his trance. Batel was speechless and he was only able to blink several times as he can't believe what just happened to him. [color=#000080][i]Gênant [/i][/color]was his only thought as he continued to look around for potential...something.

And it was then he noticed a large man or more like someone of hulking mass. Possibly of Greek origin it was easy to see he was out of place. Batel laughed in the distance at this man's follow but still why is there such a large fish clearly out of water? How interesting. Like before one would think about the prospect of other Artificers but once again that doesn't immediately concern Batel so who cares? Fortunately for Batel, he has a helicopter grandfather who will always be doing what Batel should do. Hermite who was mingling with influential Americans to practice his English, consolidate his investment opportunities, and to prepare a massive trade deal for armaments and such to use in the games but he did notice his grandson being approached by many new young humans. Their faces were imprinted in his mind and he will have to talk to his grandson about this later.

[Raine]

[IMG]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/744309e183d007cc6747f052cddbb8d0163ac9e6-1.png[/IMG]

The minute hand of clock was nearing twelve. It was only minutes now; the party organizers had organized a mass telegraph message to synchronize a ten second countdown within the city. Adam exhausted deeply, tension was building in his chest. The tension that only comes with the moments before an important event, it was not pleasant though it kept his mind clear. Adam glared over to the curator who had moved his eyes over the cityscape. He was thinking not to disturb him and leave before he began, “I spoke to the Judge, there are issues locating December,” his voice was as monotonous as ever despite this fact was not something he should be allowed to hear.

Adam paused for a moment. He pushed his body from rest and began to walk away with a response. He knew what he wanted, however the stakes are too great for Adam to devote to anything besides to hunt and be hunted. He remembered a man who stood outside the balcony watching him earlier. Suddenly a voice overpowered all the others at the party, “5 minute to the New Year!” Several cheers followed, it was difficult to discern whether they from polite joy or drunken carelessness.


The white haired man re-entered the crowd, the party’s inhabitants were growing less and less civil as the gathering’s purpose approached a climax. His vision caught onto the familiar sight, the man from the hall. It would be impolite for Mr. Voss to ignore someone at such an event. Adam paced himself to the wall, his path crossing a server to which he seized to a glass of bourbon. He just needed to get this over with; his blood was already starting to race as he felt the minutes ticking away to the New Year and dark days. His feet speedily made their way to the elaborate stairs, the majesty of the museum ignored by time limitations. Adam straightened his jacket, and put on his best friendly smile despite being a little red from being a tad nervous. His hand extended as he positioned himself in front of Batel,[color=#800080] “Do you speak English, I wouldn’t dare slaughter a beautiful language in its home country with my awful French,”[/color] he continued, [color=#800080]“I do apologize for the wait, it seemed earlier you required my attention. Could I inquire as to your name?”[/color]

___________________________________________________________________________


[IMG]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/sa.png[/IMG]
A mysterious man stood in the midst of the grand foyer. His eyes lazy and disposition lax, he mere stood still as his gaze was fixed on massive chronograph hung in the center of the room. A second passed, another, again, he watched time. The room was bare and lightless aside from that coming in from the windows, his body continued still. Finally, his lips worded something. The second hand passed again, the minute hand breaking to eleven. His eyes widened, in storm his feet took off, propelling in a full sprint down the hall.

He reached the grand staircase, the one that an hour earlier hosted the many guests. The lights were on here; his legs took two steps at a time upwards and onward His unkempt hair bouncing around and baggy clothing foreign to these privileged halls. As he reached the top, a guard jumped at his sudden presence and prepared to arm himself. The dark-haired man looked to the guard and only nodded before taking off in the opposite direction. The guard seemed to understand as he released his hand and moved in a hurry himself.

The man kept running, face teetering between a light grin and catching his breath. Alas, his feet broke himself in front of a rather eccentrically decorated door, his hand lightly brushed against it. His eyes examined it from top to bottom, careful not to disturb or open it. His hands reached for a pocket watch, the minute hand was one forward already. His body turned down the hallway as if anticipating something however with no such satisfaction as it was bare. A frown appeared on him. Seeming almost unable to stay still, the mysterious man scoured his gaze over the hall to find a large window. His body lurched towards it almost desperately. Feet first, his kick knocked the doors of the window open as he caught himself on the rim of the framing expertly. Without hesitation, he balanced himself on the thin lining of the building, the wind of the night against him and a nasty fall below him. Acrobatically he proceeded back against the stone and brick wall of the museum careful of the aging any elements have caused that may result in an accident. After a few second of quickly paced balancing, he flung himself over the beginning of a balcony terrace.

He examined his area, the darkness had covered most of his entrance as what few people were out here were rather preoccupied. On the same balcony Adam had been present on moment earlier, the mysterious man made his way inside. As soon as light illuminated him he began to receive spiteful stares for his dress. The oddly colored baggy clothing seemed fit for a beggar rather than a noble; it seemed an insult to the atmosphere. Not that the dark-haired man cared as he stared in awe, spinning like a child at the palace-like interior of the party. Meanwhile, in his pocket, the seconds began to tick away…

[Love of Ghibli]

While Batel was using his opera glasses to somewhat spy on the other kids he glanced downward and was completely overshadowed by a white. He pulled his opera glasses away rather quickly and noticed the young Adam slowly making his way up the stairs. And there it was his heart was racing once again. For Adam he was probably walking up the stairs at somewhat of a normal pace, but to Batel there was only slow motion dreaminess inching towards him as every second was something that should be framed and hung in a museum. Batel blinked to perish the thought of this clearly unhealthy obsession he had with a stranger whom he just met. Well not really met, he stalked for a little while and then ran away when someone else discovered him. But who cares those are semantics. This mystery man positioned himself in front of Batel and as Batel was resting on a stairwell he didn't have the purest of thoughts. But once again he shook those feelings...until this stranger started speaking. His words were kind, silky almost, and they were clearly followed up with a killer smile.

Batel froze for a second, it wasn't that he was having a hard time comprehending English its just that this situation was a bit...rushed for his liking. He never really crushed on anyone hard before so he never knew how to react especially if the object of your affection just happens to be this close to you. He took a deep breathe and decided to focus all of his energy into ability to converse almost as if he was dancing with one of those other people down below.[color=#000080] Why yes I do know a little English.[/color] He said with a slight chuckle as he was trying not to blush. [color=#000080]"I...um..." [/color]right in all of this fapping, fawning, drooling moments he forgot to come up with a convincing lie as to why he was stalking this man. Well you know what they say the truth will set you free. Batel chugged what remained of his wine in an attempt to gather some liquid courage. [color=#000080]"It wasn't anything major...I was...um rather...I guess smitten by your looks. I think my heart took over my body for a second and I just ended up following you.[/color]" He tried to chuckle again cursing the fact that he was out of liquid courage. [color=#000080]"But...um my name is Batel, Batel Le'Pendu of the Le'Pendu family."[/color] His breathing returned to normal it seems that saying his name and clan refresh Batel's state. [color=#000080]"And who might you be?"[/color]

[Raine]

[IMG]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/744309e183d007cc6747f052cddbb8d0163ac9e6-1.png[/IMG]
Adam exhaled sharped, perhaps this not as well thought out as he had been first believed. He broke eye contact to drown himself a bit of his own bourbon. Not only had he assumed the man had business with him but he did not even know his name. To add onto that, he believed he said he was attracted to him. Not that it would primarily be much of a disconcerting issue but the situation at hand has been so consuming of Adam that romance of any variety has been the furthest thing from his mind. He noticed; Adam was blushing. “I-I have to apologize again, it appears I have been mistaken,” his mind was ridden with embarrassment and a little anger mostly towards himself, “My name is Adam Voss, Representative for the House of Lords in London.”

A quick flash of his eyes caught the clock; he had no time nor in the position to be sweet talking his own Queen let alone some scion of the Le’Pendu family. Truthfully he had hoped it would a routine greeting and appealing to their self-interest. Still, it wouldn’t mean an appropriate scenario may not be in the near future. The game is not something that has historically been rushed. Adam widened his smile, “Perhaps I could invite you to tea sometime, I’ll on the mainland for a while I’m sure we could arrange a date to get acquainted. I know disappointingly little about your family and perhaps you could help me touch up my French,” Voss ended with a light laugh. He knew better, expressing such forward preferences in the wrong ears is what gets you disowned in some noble families. However, he applauded his initiative, making friends is better than enemies.

[Love of Ghibli]

Well the plan worked. Honesty was the best policy and in this case it might have just throne suspicion off of him. Because yes it is true that Batel followed the young lad because of innocent flirtation he left off the fact that he was standing close to the balcony to here the conversation about artificers so Batel had already marked this Adam as a fellow participant of the games. So when the time came one of these two should already have the jump on the other. Nevertheless he watched Mr. Voss' facial expressions rather closely maybe he was a little disappointed in that Batel wasn't someone else. Batel could only raise an eyebrow at this mention of the other apology. Well he was the disappointing factor after all it was expected.

In weird bought of fairness Batel decided to reply to the representative of the House of Lords in London by dropping a random hint. Well I will love to take you up on your offer Mr. Voss. He said ever confidently as grabbed a glass of wine off of a tray that servant was making carrying as he was making his rounds. [color=#000080]I would love to take you up on your your offer Mr. Voss, I just hope time permits it. I think this coming year is going to be quite busy for me. But for someone like yourself I am sure I will make time.[/color] He said with a smile as put his non drinking hand on a rail and began to take a sip of wine. This was a first for Batel, flirting, dropping hints, caring about another human being other than himself. With the clock growing ever closer to midnight all of the artificers would soon be revealed. Though the thought just occurred to Batel was this really going end civilly the second the clock stroke midnight? He didn't pretty much care for everything in the museum was pretty much a weapon for him. But there were lots of important and influential human beings present clearly they wouldn't want to get caught up in this blood bath.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

[quote name='Raine™' timestamp='1353815378' post='6077201']
[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/744309e183d007cc6747f052cddbb8d0163ac9e6-1.png[/img]

The minute hand of clock was nearing twelve. It was only minutes now; the party organizers had organized a mass telegraph message to synchronize a ten second countdown within the city. Adam exhausted deeply, tension was building in his chest. The tension that only comes with the moments before an important event, it was not pleasant though it kept his mind clear. Adam glared over to the curator who had moved his eyes over the cityscape. He was thinking not to disturb him and leave before he began, “I spoke to the Judge, there are issues locating December,” his voice was as monotonous as ever despite this fact was not something he should be allowed to hear.

Adam paused for a moment. He pushed his body from rest and began to walk away with a response. He knew what he wanted, however the stakes are too great for Adam to devote to anything besides to hunt and be hunted. He remembered a man who stood outside the balcony watching him earlier. Suddenly a voice overpowered all the others at the party, “5 minute to the New Year!” Several cheers followed, it was difficult to discern whether they from polite joy or drunken carelessness.


The white haired man re-entered the crowd, the party’s inhabitants were growing less and less civil as the gathering’s purpose approached a climax. His vision caught onto the familiar sight, the man from the hall. It would be impolite for Mr. Voss to ignore someone at such an event. Adam paced himself to the wall, his path crossing a server to which he seized to a glass of bourbon. He just needed to get this over with; his blood was already starting to race as he felt the minutes ticking away to the New Year and dark days. His feet speedily made their way to the elaborate stairs, the majesty of the museum ignored by time limitations. Adam straightened his jacket, and put on his best friendly smile despite being a little red from being a tad nervous. His hand extended as he positioned himself in front of Batel,[color=#800080] “Do you speak English, I wouldn’t dare slaughter a beautiful language in its home country with my awful French,”[/color] he continued, [color=#800080]“I do apologize for the wait, it seemed earlier you required my attention. Could I inquire as to your name?”[/color]
[/quote]

[img]http://i529.photobucket.com/albums/dd333/Danuve_L/Render/byakuran.png[/img]

Evan Toshiki spotted Adam talking to a friend, apparently, as he looked over at Leon. [color=#00FFFF]"Leon, please follow me..." [/color]he said, as both him and Leon began walking toward the group.

[color=#00FFFF]"An impressive turn about that has happened here, wouldn't you agree?" [/color]Evan threw the question out to Adam, as he extended his hand out to him. [color=#00FFFF]"I'm not sure we've met before, but then again, I do tend to forget faces and names every once and a while. Regardless, I am Evan Toshiki, a pleasure to meet you. Oh I almost forgot." [/color]he said, pointing to Leon. [color=#00FFFF]"May I introduce as well, Leon Boyle."[/color]

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/Anime-Guys-anime-guys-6494321-960-720.jpg[/img]

[color=#808080]"Um hey there." [/color]Leon said, clearing his throat as he became nervous as Evan put him on the spot. [color=#808080]"I'm Leon, the representative for Mr. Toshiki from the U.S."[/color]

[a bad post]

Alexandria excepted the drink Phillip had offered, and drank a little before returning his question, [color=#800000]"My surname? Oh its St. Claire."[/color]She had finally managed to calm herself down, when thankfully Sadie made herself over to check on Alexandria. Sadie examined the man speaking to her charge, and quickly maybe noticeably scanned his body for any form the symbol that would mark him as an artificer. She found none, but that didn't mean that he was out of the clear there were other ways to discern whether or not he was an artificer.

All the same Sadie put on her best smile, and extended a hand, [color=#800080]"Sadie Durshengur, and I'm charmed to meet you... well Alexandria are you going to introduce me to your friend."[/color]

Alexandria turned to her friend, and moved her eyes to indicate Batel, whom she did not know, [color=#800000]"Well this is Phillip, and he has yet to tell me his surname." [/color]Alexandria said with a light laugh. Sadie moved her head ever so slightly to get a view of Batel, but deduced it would have to wait until later if she wanted to get a good look and not look suspicious.

[color=#800080]"Well Phillip, what brings you to this corner of the world, or are you a French native?" [/color]Sadie gave Phillip a smile trying to keep herself as normal looking as possible.

"Well actually Sadie, he says he's here on business, and that he just couldn't pass up the chance to come to this party."Alexandria said continuing to feed information to her bodygaurd. [color=#800000]"Look at us though we haven't given poor Phillip a chance to talk for himself."[/color] Both women turned to Phillip giving him there full attention.

[ListenToLife]

Phillip smiled and took another sip of his wine, lowering from his face and cradling it between his middle and ring finger on his right hand as he laughed softly with the two, as they both looked at him. "Well, ladies, you most certainly seem close, dont you?" He grinned, watching as the two exchanged information, talking about the man before them. "My name would be Smithson, but I find it unnecessary, as we seem to be on a first name basis." Phillip added, shrugging his shoulders; though being careful not to spill his wine.

He looked to Sadie and accepted the handshake, noting the firm grip she gave, and looked inquisitively in the direction Alexandria subtly pointed to with her eyes, seeing Batel in that direction. [i]Again, all after the same guy. Interesting.[/i] Phillip thought as he released Sadie's hand, adding to Alexandria's explanations of his reasons for being here. "I'm originally a Yorkshire born man, though my accent wouldn't let that loose would it." He chuckled. "I could hardly pass up an exclusive invitation to a new century party in the Louvre. I had heard that only the most influential were able to make it to these." Phillip explained, taking another sip of his wine. He sighed and turned his questioning to Sadie, who had not seemed to be very open as of yet.

"So, Ms Durshengur, what would be your relation to Alexandria here. Maid? Cousin?...." Phillip asked, pausing for a moment as he processed the information he had seen about this woman, thinking of the possibilities. The perception, the firm grip, the confidence in her gait. 'Twas unusual to say the least. And the way she was now observing him, the way she was sizing him up and was wary and guarded as she talked to him. Yes, he knew what she was.

"....Bodyguard?" He added, after the pause; more of a statement than a question. He chuckled it away, as if he was trying to avoid the suspicion that assumption would've brought upon him; pretty much red-lighting him as an effective anger. He smiled and took another sip of wine. "Not that it matters, of course. A person's business is their business, not mine. For now, we should enjoy the party; 'tis a party after all, and it's close approaching midnight. Would you like a last dance, Alexandria?" Phillip asked, offering his hand as he placed the near empty wine glass on a near-by table and bowing slightly.

[Aix]

[spoiler='Just to get your attention'][quote name='SunKistRebelution' timestamp='1353795385' post='6076968']
Johnathan could only hope to grow accustomed to the bothersome fabric of the suit forced upon him. Every so often one of his limbs would get a mind of its own and attempt to scratch one of the itches generated by the friction between the uncomfortable material and his skin. Nevertheless, he had been told that one must wear this sort of thing in high society or risk becoming an outcast. That said, the young man had weighed that option against the added physical and emotional comfort of his traditional coat and pants.

Ever since the clock had appeared on his torso, Johnathan had undergone a multiple month long ordeal to educate him on the history of those who had competed in past editions of the Eternity game. He was trained to recognize people with an air different from those around him. He was already well-versed in combat. He was forced to train tirelessly to master the ins and outs of his artifact, the Seedhorn of Cadmus, but had still not even come close to such a threshold as mastery. As he thought of his artifact, he reached down to his right hip for reassurance, where it remained strapped to the inside of his suit jacket and hidden from the eyes of others.

He couldn't help but be nervous, and it showed, apparently, because Helen put her arm in the crook of his as they walked along the entrance of the Louvre. She was not the only one accompanying him as he entered the party. Mr. Aaron Economos, her father and his primary Patron, took his naturally short, quick strides in front of them and dotting the area around the two were five nameless gentlemen whose clothes all had the same sandy brown tint to them. These five entourage members were nearly identical to each other in appearance and seemed to serve as a sort of barrier to generally anyone around John and Helen.

Once inside, Economos had told John, it was important to go out, meet with and be friendly to as many of the wealthy attendees of this event as possible. This prospect loomed greater than the potential conflict with his competitors at the event, as John's social skills always seemed to be laced with a certain ineptitude. Luckily, Helen excelled in this field and served as a more than adequate intermediary between himself and the potential Patrons. Her mediation graced him in an immeasurable way due to the fact that his French linguistic skills were nearly nonexistent.

John took a pardon from the group of upper-class investors he was conversing with to get himself a glass of wine, in order that his nerves might be calmed. As he drank, the beautiful melody of an unfamiliar song floated its way into his ears. It was soothing and happy. Too happy. Unnaturally happy, as it would seem. Slyly investigating the source of such a song, John noted this person of worth as he counted down the minutes to midnight. The young man attempted to will time to accelerate so that Helen would be out of danger, that he would not be forced to converse under so much pressure with such influential people and that he could start the competition so that his nerves would give way to his warrior's sense and instincts.

He tried to make his way over to the musician, but the young man had disappeared. John then decided to seek out Helen from amongst the crowd.
[/quote][/spoiler]
Augustus walked through the crowd once more and this time, without fear of people asking for his autograph. One of the Twelve, Theresa Pallas, a sage-looking grey-eyed woman in her late thirties, had handed him a fake moustache and glasses and applied some theatrical make-up on him, giving an illusion of completely changing his face. Of course, if anyone looked very closely, they could tell it [i]was [/i]indeed the famous Silvertongue, but no one had bothered putting someone they never met under close scrutiny.

He frowned. Really, there was nothing suspicious to tell the difference between normal people and perhaps competitors of the Eternity Game. Everyone seemed to be cheerfully chatting and drinking and generally having what hopefully was a good time. He wandered around some more. The place was almost like the Labyrinth which he once had to go through as a trial for the Olympian Society. The Labyrinth he went through wasn't the [i]real[/i] Labyrinth, which he would have most certainly gotten lost in, but it was an underground maze with sinister runes and paintings on the walls, blood splattered on the ground and a machine, like one of those auto vacuum things, with horns zooming after him. Augustus smiled to himself, at least there wasn't a Minotaur [i]here[/i].

Lost in his thoughts, he bumped into a very muscular olive skinned man with blond hair, just spilling a tiny bit of the wine the man held onto the man's sleeves. [color=#daa520]"I'm terribly sorry, sir,"[/color] he said, hastily bowing to the man. For all he knew, the man could be a very important person.

[a bad post]

For a moment Phillips words hung in the air between the three people, and slowly a smile started grip Sadie's face. Under the white hot anger at this man for being so very perceptive, there was excitement, giddy excitement that had always filled her as a little girl. This man would be a challenge, she liked a challenge, but unfortunately if this challenge came between her and Alexandria's safety, then well he would have to be eliminated, but for now Sadie was going to have fun. [color="#800080"]"Not bodygaurd, what would give you that ridiculous notion. Me? No I'm just a childhood friend of Alexandria's."[/color] Which wasn't a total lie, they had been friends since Alexandria was just a little girl, albeit Sadie was three years older.

On the other hand Alexandria's face was an expression of guarded shock, which unless Phillip was very perceptive man, which he seemed to be he would have not noticed Alexandria's shock. Alexandria studied him, there was something about him, something very odd. Was he an artificer it seemed now more than ever it was a possibility, one thing Alexandria did know is that this man was deadly whether or not he was an artificer. His asking for a dance snapped her out of this trance, [color=#800000]"Well of course, it wouldn't be a party without a dance. You'll have to help a little, as I have danced in a while."[/color]Alexandria extended her hand for him to lead her onto the dance floor.

Sadie began to move away from the two, and choose a spot in the room, where if Phillip tried anything she could see him, and get to Alexandria quickly. She knew what he was trying to do, he wanted to separate them, to make Alexandria an easier target. Sadie wouldn't let that happen, she couldn't let that happen. Mrs. St. Claire had already lost one beloved to this game, Sadie would make sure she did not lose another.

[Raine]

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/744309e183d007cc6747f052cddbb8d0163ac9e6-1.png[/img]
[color=#800080]“The pleasure is mine,”[/color] Adam was a bit relieved someone could intervene from what was growing to be a rather awkward situation with Batel.[color=#800080] “Adam Voss, House of Lords, at your service.”[/color] Adam felt the tiredness weathering away his disposition, the combination of these socializations with anxiety has been taking its toll. Adam knew the New Year was only moments away, “[color=#800080]Perhaps we could save more informal conversation for after the celebration, I’m sure the countdown will begin any moment now.”[/color]


Adam turned his body away as to say, this conversation was over for now. He faced the center of the room as he tried to calm himself. However that was short-lived, his eyes widened, [color=#800080]“What the hell?”[/color] …

______________________________________________________________________

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/sa.png[/img]
The dark-haired man continued received odd looks and hateful glares from surrounding party goers. It wasn’t obvious whether or not the man realized these stares were even present. Acting like a child, the man skipped through the pillars outside the mass of the crowd. His wondering quickly landed him beside a desk and man occupied with a pair of headphones and an odd tapping machine. The man smiled gleefully before the man rose from his chair, and finally noticed the mysterious man hovering over him. The telegraph operator stumbled backwards in surprise,[color=#ffd700] “C-can I help you?”[/color] The out of place individual stepped forward with that same grin, as the operator followed suit backwards into off room of the ballroom. The dark-haired man answered happily, [color=#008000]“What were you doing?”[/color] he said with curiosity in his eyes.

The operator was off put but a little eased by the question, the man was odd but nothing too unsettling. The man reached into his vest pocket, standard wear for employees for this sort of event, and pulled out a pocket watch. The man opened the case to show the time, only two minute left,[color=#ffd700] “I synchronized the clock to the city’s, for the countdown.” [/color]The dark-haired man’s eyes glittered with awe, juvenile and happy. In a swipe, the watch was now in his hands. The operator reached back for it, but the man jumped backwards.[color=#008000] “I understand,”[/color] the mysterious man said optimistically, filled with determination. [color=#ffff00]“W-wait“[/color], the employee cried out before the man charged back into the main hall.

The mysterious individual ran through the ballroom, pushing aside several party goers and even knocking down one elderly lady. His body lowered, and pushed off launching him on top of large antique table, knocking aside several glasses and smashing one plate. He was now taller than everyone at the party as he gazed over a sea of well-dressed influentials and servants. The man inhaled deeply, constricting his body before,[color=#008000] “EVERYBODY!” [/color]his higher pitched voice roared about the murmuring and chatter of the party!

[Super Chaos Sonic]

[img]http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff473/GrandRaine/Anime-Guys-anime-guys-6494321-960-720.jpg[/img]

[i][color=#808080]Whoa...a representative from a house a lords? He must've been pretty important to get a position like that. [/color][/i]Leon thought, as he looked at Adam. [color=#808080]"Nice to meet you, Mr. Voss."[/color]

[img]http://i529.photobucket.com/albums/dd333/Danuve_L/Render/byakuran.png[/img]

[color=#40E0D0]"Now that we've acquainted ourselves, I suppose we should continue to enjoy the par-" [/color]Evan began, until he was pushed to the ground by the mystery man. [color=#40E0D0]"What the hell was his problem?"[/color]

Leon's eyes followed the man, as he quickly helped Evan up for a moment. Then he saw the man knock down an elderly lady, and he just about lost it. [color=#808080]"I'll be back Mr. Toshiki. I gotta get that man back here for a moment, cause that wasn't right at all!" [/color]he said, as he ushered his way through the crowd, following this deranged man. [color=#808080]"HEY! Come back here! You got some nerve knocking that old lady down!!"[/color]

[color=#008000]"EVERYBODY!"[/color]

Leon skidded to a stop, as he looked up at the man, who seemed to want to explain something to them. [color=#808080][i]What's his deal?[/i][/color]