Jump to content
SITE NEWS
  • EXCITING NEW PLOTS COMING SOON, LOOK FOR UPCOMING POSTS IN THE PLOTTING AREA THAT WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL ON THE SITE TO JOIN!!

  • Atticus Gale

    Recommended Posts

    Wednesday, November 9th, 2019.

    The soft drab glow of the November morning cast it’s paler upon the Ballentine’s eastern face. The gothic stone work, muddy brown bricks and the statuesque form of a tall man in his late twenties, ashen in the grey of the overcast sky. He stood stolid between the open french doors upon the ninth floor balcony, the cool crisp air chilling the high ceilinged bedroom. The man, protected only by the thin fabric of his silk dress shirt seemed unaffected by the cold, almost enjoying the cool embrace of the winter wind pressing the white garment against his skin.

    Brilliant blue eyes surveyed Amsterdam Avenue below as Atticus sipped from a white mug, a chocolaty protein concoction. He recalled the winter of the last year; the November blizzard that had paralyzed the city. He remembered it well, etched in mind by the mysteries of the Menhir unraveled... but that was another tale, for another time.

    As much as he preferred his work at the Treatment Facility, Atticus always enjoyed his time in Omenwich. Celebrating All Hallows Eve and the Day of the Dead at the Oak & Henge was a much needed diversion. Time at the Foundation Building had been needed as well, re-familiarizing himself with policies often removed from his usual routines on Plum Island. Two weeks later, however, and he was ready to fall back into old habits. That, and though he tried to deny it, he missed one person in particular. Their conversations, the way she tossed her long flowing hair to the side. He had to remind himself that she was his boss, but more importantly, age was always a factor he had to consider.

    Locking the door behind him, the distorted image of the blue grey suit reflected in the brass numbers, nine-zero-five, as Atticus made his way to the stairwell. A mere nine floor descent, but even if it were ninety, he’d still consider it. He hated elevators. The close quarters, the obligation of social niceties. Atticus always felt ambushed. Forced to engage in trivial conversations with neighbours he barely knew and being a sporadic fixture in the apartment the curiosities were endless. The stairs provided solitude and some much needed exercise, not to mention he’d always admired the gothic style of the granite stairwell.

    Emerging through the door of the underground parking garage Atticus’ long strides carried him through the lot.

    [npc]Top o’the morning to ya.[/npc] Greeted an elderly man with a fine British accent. He was standing on a step ladder and inspecting a valve of what appeared to be the emergency sprinkler system.

    Atticus smiled and nodded. [atticus]Mr. Kripp.[/atticus]

    Walter Kripp, the Ballantine’s caretaker was a pleasant man. Atticus always enjoyed speaking with the Englishman whom reminded him a little of his friend, Angus O’Leary, the owner of the Henge. Only despite his apparent age the man’s hair had remained thick and dark, looking every bit the part of a hair-piece though it was all natural.

    [npc]Remember lad. The gates to the garage close early tomorrow night.[/npc] Mr. Kripp reminded him.

    Atticus had to pause a moment until he absent-mindedly recalled, [atticus]Oh, that’s right. The full moon.[/atticus]

    Mr. Kripp shot him back a worrisome look before carrying on with his tinkering. He was among those who maintained precautions during the time of were-beasts, even though incidents were far and few between these days. Atticus respected the caution but he himself knew better than to given into fear. Antivirals were highly effective and the frequency of Lycanthropes had significantly dropped over the years.

    [atticus]I’ll remember. Thanks.[/atticus]

    Atticus climbed into his silver SUV and proceeded out of the garage, turning south onto Amsterdam. He meandered his way through the traffic while listening to one of his favourite podcasts, a couple of conspiracy theorists dissecting the world of hidden factions. It was very amusing.

    Three-quarters of an hour later he was at Cooper Union square, the prestigious location of the Ward Foundation — Pharos’ New York headquarters. The large red brick building was a pristine landmark amidst cold grey of glass and steel. A beacon of preservation, one might say.

    Atticus pulled into the private lot across the street, rolled down his window and placed his thumb on the scanner. A heavy metal door slid up, the SUV pulled through and paused again at a guard station where he produced his identification. With a nod, the guard raised the typical bar gate and Atticus proceeded to his parking space.

    The parkade was fully enclosed, the security tight. This was because the agents proceeded into the Ward Foundation via an underground passage connecting it to the parkade. The main entrance of the Foundation building was for the public. A necessary facade.

    Yet again, Atticus placed his thumb on a scanner and one of three doors slid open revealing the long brightly lit shaft beyond. There were moving moving sidewalks on either side of the large tunnel but he preferred to walk. A brisk stroll down the center of the highly polished white marble floor, to the elevator that he would take to the fifth floor.

    Stepping out of the elevator, it’s ultra modern interior was a stark contrast to the predominantly 1900’s style architecture of the building. The furnishings, the decor, brought to life that bygone era. With the exception of modern technology one might have felt as if they were time travelling. The illusion, however, broke down once one entered one of the labs. Such was Atticus’ world but this morning he was intercepted by Lead Agent, Connor MacBride.

    [npc]Agent Gale, a word if I may.[/npc] Requested the Irishman.

    He was a youthful forty-something, his hair worn longer reflecting his free-spirited attitude. He wore a pale grey suit that rivalled Atticus’ in style and quality and like the larger man, MacBride never wore a tie.

    Near to his office, the Lead Agent lead Atticus though his door and beckoned him sit in one of the leather chairs before a cluttered desk.

    [npc]Stone’s away.[/npc] He began, almost apologetically.

    He was referring to Director Stone Ward, his cousin. Atticus noted that Stone was consistently ‘away’ every month, but gave it no mind. Pharos was an extensive organization and he imagined his responsibilities went far beyond that of the New York office.

    [npc]I’m up to m’ arse in paperwork as y’ can see and I’m in need of an agent with grade six clearance.[/npc]

    Atticus nodded. The agents within the foundation generally maxed out at level 3 and those beyond were usually tasked with other assignments, like himself.

    [npc]I know you’re busy, but I’d be indebted to ya if you could take on an apprentice for me.[/npc]

    Atticus nodded once more, the lack of enthusiasm noted by the senior agent. Connor was aware of the project that Atticus had been tasked with, a comprehensive cataloguing of rather unique, genetic materials. It was time consuming and methodical but like his assignment, he felt that Agent Gale was uniquely suited for this trainee.

    [npc]Great. His name is, ‘Deek’, ‘Endeek’…[/npc] Hands filtered through the papers on his desk until he found the agent’s profile, [npc]Endika Ofeo.[/npc] He handed the paper to Atticus.

    [atticus]Anthropology.[/atticus] Atticus read with piqued interest, [atticus]Theology.[/atticus] Less so, but as he read further the extent and diversity of the man’s religious study warranted a more approving nod.

    [atticus]Says here, he was trained at ARMA.[/atticus] Atticus noted, concluding the nature of his abilities. A magus.

    Pharos had been trying to recruit more agents of a magical nature. After all, it was the way of the future. Science and magic were slowly converging and one day, they’d be one in the same. To Atticus’ horror.

    [atticus]When should I expect him?[/atticus] Atticus inquired, assuming the afternoon since MacBride couldn’t have possibly known whether or not he could have taken on an apprentice at this time.

    Agent MacBride glanced at his wristwatch, [npc]Oh, he should be here any moment now.[/npc]

     

    His assistant, Ryan at the front desk, had already been instructed to ferry the man into the office upon his arrival.

     

    Tight spaces, no where to turn. An ambush. Atticus hated them.

     

     

    @Endika Ofeo

    Link to comment
    • 2 weeks later...

    Dika had woken up that morning much too early for his own liking. He was nervous about the interview or assignment or whatever it was he was reporting for that day; anyone in their right mind would be. He knew that Pharos was about research and learning and education and understanding, but the whole 'faction' concept had him sort of spooked. He was thankful for ARMA for picking him up and helping him figure out what was truly going on with him and the world post-Resonance, but it didn't mean that he liked being ushered into the world of divisive group versus group dynamics that had developed. Dika sighed as he threw back the covers and raised himself to a sitting position on the edge of the bed, shaking his head as he slipped on his warm, fuzzy house shoes. He stood, yawning and stretching and reaching for his robe next to the bed as he felt the winter chill breeze over him, as he was yet unclothed. Dika glanced at the clock and groaned at the time he saw, realizing he had hours before he had to be at the Ward Foundation main entrance. It gave him plenty of time to groom though, it was best to leave a good impression after all. Dika slowly shuffled toward the bathroom to start getting ready.

     

    *     *     *

     

    Dika hurriedly followed behind his escort, whose name he had already forgotten in the sea of names and faces he had been presented with that day. He knew he had a meeting at this address and at this time, but couldn't for the life of him remember who he was meeting or where. Considering that this was a faction headquarters, he assumed that some level of mystique should be maintained, but did the maze of the building ever really end? He had been taken down a dozen or more hallways, made at least twenty turns, and been escorted along by a handful of people, each passing him along to another like a package being delivered. There were guards at security points and biometric scanners and moving walkways all amidst stoic architecture that was comparitively stale to the hustle and bustle of the people with their technology scurrying about.

     

    Dika was finally asked to stop and wait by his tour guide as they were in front of an office door with a brass plaque emblazoned with 'L.A. Connor MacBride' on it. There was a moment of muffled discussion beyond the door before it was re-opened and Dika was beckoned inside. Dika heaved out a nervous sigh, adjusted his briefcase, straightened his jacket's lapel and shirt's sleeves, and stepped inside the office. 

     

    All at once, the nervous smile Dika wore faded away and his stiffly extended arm fell limp to his side. Dika's vision blurred and his eyes watered as a tinny ringing noise sounded in his ears. Dika stumbled back a half-step and blinked a few times to clear his vision as the ringing subsided. He looked around and realized what had happened. The tall, Nordic beauty with near-glowing blue eyes immediately to his left was immensely powerful, moreso than Dika had ever seen before. Dika was still slack-jawed from the wave that had overcome him as he surveyed the man more closely. He began to recognize a bit of the mana pattern, or rather power signature as he was figuring it out to be, that reminded him of something he had seen a few years ago in South America. Dika forgot himself momentarily as he stepped right in front of the man, coming within a few inches of him and asking  [dika]"¿Un vaquero?"[/dika]   Dika tried to slow his racing mind, ignoring the questions flying through his thoughts as he tried to tell if he felt any different than normal standing in front of the man; but there was nothing that he could easily discern at the moment. Dika's face screwed up into a quizzical look before he realized what he was doing and stepped back.

     

    [dika]"I apologize, that was rude."[/dika]   Dika jutted his hand out again to the man, still locking eyes with him, studying him, trying to answer some of the questions running through his mind.  [dika]"Dr. Endika Ofeo, reporting for duty, I guess."[/dika]   Dika said, not quite sure what he was reporting for he realized, but it sounded official enough to garner some respect he hoped.

    Link to comment
    • 2 weeks later...

    Atticus rose from his chair as the apprentice entered the room. Quickly glancing over his dossier, he had failed to note the physical characteristics. He was tall, strong of stature, not at all what he had been expecting of a Theologist, but then, he himself wasn’t exactly the stereotypical geneticist. There was some comfort in that. He tended to stand out like a sore thumb among academics, Endika near looked him in the eye.

    Respectful of the pecking order, Atticus yielded to the senior agent as Connor extended a hand, but he was clearly the first in line. The newcomer didn’t play up to hierarchy, possibly it didn’t even occur to him. Atticus liked that, shooting out his hand, but before he could grasp the other, the man seemed to suffer some kind of seizure.

    [npc]Are you alright there?[/npc] Connor inquired, staring up at the two towers before him as they locked their paws. Atticus’ grip was strong at first, quickly yielding to that of the other, as was his custom. Eye’s flashed downward, distracted by the tattoos across the knuckles, reminiscent of incarceration or gang-life.

    Stepping round the desk, Connor shook Endika’s hand. [npc]No offence taken. Just don’t wanna lose ya on the first day.[/npc] He responded to the apology, making light of the situation, the man was after all, ‘Altered’, and he’d seen his fair share of anomalies during his time at Pharos.

    Atticus was already forming a theory. Familiar with Magus, he assumed it was a reaction from the ’Sight’, the ability to perceive mana through the mind’s eye. They all had it, only there had to be more to it. An enhancement perhaps. Possibly an increased sensitivity, and what had he said?

    ‘Un vackaro?’ He wasn’t fluent in Spanish, but he could get by. ‘Cowboy?’ He wasn’t sure, but paid it little mind.

    [npc]We’re not so formal ‘round here.[/npc] Connor was quick to explain to the newcomer, gesturing to a seat beside Atticus who was already sitting back down. [npc]First off, welcome to Pharos. Your instructor’s speak very highly of you.[/npc] Which said a lot.

    Pharos basic training was a demanding endeavour. Two months of mental and physical exertion to assure that the candidate was devoted to the faction. Thus far, few Magus had proven trustworthy for one reason or another. Usually it was a conflict of interest with those who had originally trained them in the arcane arts.

    [npc]This is Agent Atticus Gale.[/npc] Connor introduced.

    Atticus smiled and nodded. [atticus]Pleased to meet you.[/atticus]

    [npc]I’ve asked Atticus to take on the role of your chaperone. We’re kinda under-manned at the moment and he’s the only Grade 6 available, but it’s not like I’m throwing ya to the wolves. Gale’s an exceptional agent. Few have rose through the ranks so quickly. You’re in good hands. He’s gotta make a run to one of our archives and I figured it’d be a good way for ya to get yer feet wet.[/npc]

    Connor opened a drawer and procured a small black box. Opening the hinged top, he placed it before Endika, the highly polished contents glimmering in the light. It was a Pharos badge, a credential an agent used only when on official business, otherwise they maintained their cover.

    [npc]Have ya decided on a post yet?[/npc] Connor inquired.

    Most agent-archivists had an academic post which served as a cover and in some respects an actual job. These tended to be museums, but in Atticus’ case he worked at a Ward Institute Facility. Some people, were aware of the Pharos name attached to it, most had no idea of the full scope of the organization.

    [npc]No rush. Take yer time.[/npc]

    Link to comment

    Dika tore his gaze away from the man that had shocked him to politely smile at the man behind the desk, offering him a seat. That meant that he was Connor MacBride, the other man would remain a mystery to Dika for now. Dika accepted the seat, removing his briefcase and setting it down next to him as he sat, smiling at the comment about his 'instructor's' compliments. Then, Agent MacBride introduced the other man as Agent Atticus Gale, excusing Dika to once again to gawk at him. He smiled and said that he was pleased to meet Dika, but Dika only mustered a nod as the questions began to race again.

     

    Agent MacBride started speaking again, so Dika made himself tear his gaze away again to focus on what was being said. The usual compliments about Agent Gale's high caliber and work ethic, and whatever a 'grade six' was; Dika made a mental note to ask about that later. Agent MacBride placed a case on the desk and opened it, revealing a shiny new badge with the agency's symbol emblazoned on it.

     

    Dika laughed as he picked up the badge, putting on a gruff voice and saying  [dika]"¡Enseñando chapa!"[/dika]   Dika laughed some more at his own joke, putting the badge back before asking  [dika]"Is that really necessary? How much work will I honestly be doing where a medalla is honestly needed? Is that what you mean by 'post' and 'grade'?"[/dika]   Dika still had so many questions.

    Link to comment

    Leaning to the side, leg folded comfortably over the other, Atticus curiously processed the Spanish. He was perplexed over the man’s apparent lack of knowledge concerning Pharos policy, but viewing the document’s details from memory, the reason became all too clear. The dossier had been ‘red-stamped’, basically meaning that he had been fast-tracked. The practice wasn’t common but when the organization ear-marked an individual they got them into the field as quickly as possible. Magus were a rare commodity and with the growing number of ‘incantation based’ cases persons of Endika’s particular skill set were highly sought after. It was also probably why, Connor had decided to personally conduct the preliminary orientation ‘on-the-job’.

    Settling in for the unscheduled interview, Atticus placed his hands in his lap and politely remained attentive as Connor proceeded to fill the apprentice in on the inner workings of Pharos.

    [npc]Trust is the foundation of Pharos.[/npc] the Lead Agent began, [npc]We guard and preserve knowledge, secrets that the world sometimes can’t understand… shouldn’t understand. But, you’re aware of all that. The grades represent security clearance. There are eight levels. By the end of today, you’ll be indoctrinated into the first level and while in the presence of Mr. Gale you’ll be granted access to grade two areas. However, I’m extending that today to grade three with a special clearance as your mentor has to pay a visit to the Pandora archive.[/npc]

    Leaning back in his chair, Connor gestured to the badge. [npc]When the Resonance occurred and Pharos made themselves known to the world we had to adopt an official title and status. Whether we like or not, we’re agents, held accountable to the laws of the land. The days of masquerading as other agencies are past, but we still try to work in unofficial capacities as much as possible. There in lies the irony of our symbol. While we’re a beacon of knowledge we’ve always tried to stay out of the spotlight as much as we can. When we have to act officially as representatives of Pharos, it has to be by the book. You need credentials. Do you carry a sidearm? Most of us do.[/npc] he cast Atticus a displeased glance on the topic, [npc]Register your firearm at the ammunitions desk or they can provide you with one. Atticus can show you, if he can remember the way.[/npc]

    Gale responded with a small grin and discontented shake of his head to the senior agent’s remark. The two otherwise remained silent on the topic.

    [npc]So, I entrust ya into the capable hands of Atticus here. If ya ‘ave any other questions just fire away while you got me.[/npc]

    Link to comment

    Dika nodded slowly as he listened to Agent MacBride, interrupting at one point to ask  [dika]"So what exactly denotes clearance? This clearance level does this, while that clearance level does that, etc. What jobs go where?"[/dika]   After a beat of silence, Dika realized his mistake and chuckled.  [dika]"In order to know that, you'd have to have that clearance, por supesto, never mind, continue."[/dika]   Dika said.

     

    Dika politely waited for Agent MacBride to finish, frowning a bit at the 'registering a firearm' part; as he had never been a fan of weapons of any kind, least of all the ones that could be the most deadly with the least skill. When Agent MacBride was done, he asked Dika if he had any questions. Dika's smile returned, growing wide genuine as he got excited for the opportunity to ask questions. He held up a finger, indicating he'd need a moment, before leaning over the side of the chair and reaching for his briefcase. He didn't bother with picking it up off the floor as he snapped the clasps open and lifted the lid. He pulled out a notepad and a pen, unceremoniously dropping them onto the desk where the badge case still sat untouched. He leaned back over and closed his briefcase again. Dika cleared his throat as he reached for the pad and pen again, and began to write, outlining the first sheet into sections and filling in titles for each space. Dika looked up from his notepad and began to grill Agent MacBride for answers.

     

    [dika]"So,"[/dika]   Dika began;  [dika]"Pharos has always existed, but after El Cambio the organization has chosen to partially reveal itself, at least to the necessary agencies in order to more effectively travel, investigate, research, and complete tasks as it sees fit?"[/dika]

     

    Connor's face pulled into a scowl as he watched Dika start taking notes. He thought that it might be a quick and easy introduction, but it was quickly becoming clear that the man wanted answers. He understood, it could all be overwhelming for someone so new to learn all of this so quick, but that's why he had assigned him to Agent Gale. He never should've offered to answer Dika's questions. He sighed and leaned back and began to explain. [NPC]"Not quite, before tha Resonance occurred, there were a few different organizations workin' toward similar goals. When tha event occurred, it got clear tha' tha time for workin' separately in complete secrecy was no longer, so one major player called 'The Ward Institute' stepped up to tha plate, before only bein' basically a financer for organizations like us. It's CEO Christopher Ward announced tha' tha institute would continue to stand as a foundation for knowledge an' learnin', especially about the world post-Resonance, but tha' the creation o' the umbrella organization o' Pharos would do better ta assist in policin' the supernatural, utilizin' their vast knowledge to promote understandin' and peace between tha 'altered' an' tha 'non-altered'." [/NPC]

     

    Dika's smile grew even wider, almost impossibly so as he furiously scribbled across the page, making notes in different sections, adding bulleted lists, and adding more sections and questions as he wrote. Dika's writing slowed as he looked back up to Agent MacBride and asked  [dika]"So if the Ward Institute is basically just a front, why is Pharos run by Christopher Ward? I understand that there needs to be some sort of organization to all of this, but an all-powerful CEO with a very partial Board of Directors hardly seems the best way to run a government-partnered group of investigators."[/dika]

     

    [NPC]"That's an easy answer, before tha event, it was work for us or don't; we don't care we are just a group o' interested people. Now, as paired with tha government as we are, we are also required ta check in with tha government. Christopher Ward reports directly to tha Board of Governers, and we are all subject to tha law now tha' we can't avoid it. Bonus is, now we 'elp advise tha laws, because we are a light o' knowledge leadin' tha way in tha darkness, if ya buy that." [/NPC] Agent MacBride chuckled at his own slightly sarcastic intonation of the cheesy mottos he saw plastered everywhere.

     

    Dika nodded and made small 'uh-huh' and 'mmm' noises as he listened and continued to write.  [dika]"So, agents are ranked by security clearance, and you are the lead agent, the one above them, I assume there is a continued heirarchy that leads up to the Ward family, correct? Could you explain that? Or is that a clearance level thing?"[/dika]

     

    Connor waved a hand dismissively and said [NPC]"No, no, it isn't a clearance level issue. I am tha lead agent, yes, and I, along with leaders from other groups within Pharos report to tha' 'ead of Operations Dierdre Park, about what is actually 'appenin' and goin' on in Pharos. She, along with other 'eads of Departments like Finance, Government Relations, etc. all report to tha Director, 'ere tha's Stone Ward, Christopher Ward's cousin. In L.A. it's Sapphron Ward, Stone's sister and again, Christopher's Cousin. Christopher Ward is obviously tha 'ead, and tha CEO of the Ward Institute, but 'e only keeps tha title o' North American Sector Director, presumably with tha intention o' spreadin' out inta other regions and continents with other Sector Directors at tha lead o' each." [/NPC]

     

    Dika nodded and spoke as he flipped a page and sectioned out a clean sheet.  [dika]"Obviously with the intention to spread the work of Pharos but not shoulder the responsibility himself. Plus, that maintains the added benefit of having someone work with their own home region, to skip over cross-cultural issues when operating Pharos and the obvious xenophobia that is cross-region, since the organization most likely already faces enough opposition from the Vanguard, meaning the Southern Coalition would never be an option for a field office."[/dika]   Dika chuckled at his own joke, but then looked up to continue and saw the serious looks on the other agents faces. Dika's own face fell and he said  [dika]"Well, touchy subject, duly noted."[/dika]   Dika paused for a moment and pretended to scribble something down, letting the silence deafen the moment for a bit, before raising his head again and continuing with his barrage of questions.  [dika]"So it would be safe to assume that the majority of your work involves magical creatures, objects, and locations; correct?"[/dika]

     

    Connor began to explain, [NPC]"Most o' our work does involve magical artifacts, yes. There is work with magical creatures an' locations ta an extent, but not as much as ya would think, at least yet. There are efforts ta further those branches o' our work, but since they are locations an' livin' creatures, they are a lot harder ta tack down an' control an' study in a safe environment. We can safely remove artifacts most easily, negatin' tha threat they pose ta tha surroundin' area an' its peoples, while takin' precautions ta protect ourselves as they are studied. For magical creatures, there is a facility for tha', but it were only built fairly recently an' isn't fully staffed an' operational yet. Agent Gale here would be able ta answer more questions about tha' later if ya like." [/NPC] Connor was referencing The Facility For The Treatment And Study Of The Altered on Plum Island, headed by Asia Savin; which Atticus was an active doctor at. That was the limit of Connor's knowledge of it off-hand, however; so referring to Atticus was the better move on his part, he thought.

     

    Dika made several more notes, adding one thing to the previous page. Dika flipped the paper back to his current page, scanned over the notes he had made on the questions he had asked and nodded, making a satisfied 'hrmph' sound. He flipped to a new page and simply wrote 'Lead Agent Connor MacBride' across the top, underlined it, and continued on.  [dika]"Well, because a few people that I have recently met have informed me that around here it isn't considered rude to talk about magic or ask about abilities; I do have a few more questions.  I've noticed a new kind of ripple around you that I've never seen before. What powers do you have exactly?"[/dika]   Dika felt a twinge of discomfort in his gut. He figured out fast that no one really wanted to talk about themselves being altered or their abilities without first disclosing the information themselves. Dika was struck with the misfortune of having the ability to see much more than the average mage, a bad sense of what is socially acceptable and what is not, and an insatiable curiosity. It had gotten him in trouble before, but never anything seriously dangerous; just an accidental faux pas or two. This world seemed to be very different than South America, or maybe it was just the time that had passed since the event that changed people. In any case, Agent MacBride did offer to answer his questions, and it was something that made him curious.

     

    One corner of Connor's mouth cocked up in a half-grin. 'He's a bit of a nosy one isn't he?' he thought to himself. He knew the new guy would figure it out eventually, so he might as well come out and say it. [NPC]"I can control emotions, helps me keep my cool an' lets me help others do tha same. I've even pushed it ta help plants 'feel good' if ya will, ta help 'em be healthy an' grow." [/NPC]

     

    Dika smiled and nodded, writing down a few notes.  [dika]"Ah, what a journey it would be, in short, to know the harmony in nature."[/dika]   Dika chuckled at his own reference.

     

    Connor's eyebrows went up, and his grin filled out as he responded, [NPC]"Alexander Humboldt said tha'." [/NPC] Connor knew that from his time at Trinity getting his masters, but someone like this knowing that? It surprised him.

     

    Dika smiled and looked back up at Agent MacBride.  [dika]"Cute and smart, huh? I'll have to remember that."[/dika]   Dika closed his notepad and stood up, reaching for the case on the desk. He flicked it open, took out the badge, and hooked it into his inner jacket pocket, tucking it away in a manner that let him open his sport coat and show it to anyone who may ask. Dika smiled, he knew he'd be showing off in the mirror later, testing it out to see what he looked like trying the official showing-of-the-badge. Honestly, he was feeling more official already just having it; he was starting to understand the draw it had. Dika picked up his briefcase to put down on the desk, opened it up to tuck away his notes, and closed it again to throw over his shoulder. Dika jutted out his hand again to shake with Agent MacBride.  [dika]"I appreciate you answering my questions, I know I can be a lot when it comes to being nosy, so thank you."[/dika]   Dika turned to face Agent Gale and asked  [dika]"Okay, are we ready?"[/dika]

    Link to comment
    • 4 weeks later...

    The soft slap of the closing notepad pulled Atticus out of his daze. He sprung lithely from his seat in unison with the rise of the other, hand quickly following Endika’s to offer his superior a parting shake.

    He gestured to the doorway, bidding Endika take the lead while he followed and closed the door behind. [atticus]Ammunitions is this way.[/atticus] he pointed out, leading the way down a corridor perpendicular to the direction they had originally come. He didn’t bother verifying whether or not Endika carried a sidearm. Protocol dictated he needed to register either way, every agent was assigned a firearm whether they used it or not. Heavy on the ‘not’ for Atticus who had little use for them.

    The corridor ended at an elevator. Atticus pressed the down button and though there was no floor display, the car arrived in a timely fashion. The silver doors parted, revealing an interior in keeping with time period the architecture and interior design emulated.

    “Going down.” Announced an automated female voice.

    Atticus pressed a button, holding his thumb momentarily until it’s blue glow turned green, prompting the doors to close and the car to rapidly descend. The doors opened into a long corridor with a glass wall on the left side, displaying a shooting range. There were a few people practicing, ears and eyes covered by protective head gear and glasses but the sound was completely muffled by the thick, sound proof barrier. There were two glass doors at the end of the corridor revealing the ammunitions desk and beyond it the weaponry storage.

    As the two men walked abreast down the long, vacant corridor Atticus showed little to no interest in the variety of firearms being used, ranging from pistols to high powered automatic rifles. He was apathetic to the atmosphere.

    [atticus]Have you considered a placement? A place of work in the agency?[/atticus] Atticus clarified.

    Pharos was extensive. There were a number of organizations where an Anthropologist and Theologist could find placement. Agents generally maintained a position in a place like his own facility, if they didn’t work directly at the branch office.

    Link to comment

    Dika was led along to the Ammunitions department, entering into a long hallway with a glass wall on one side; separating the shooting range from the walkway. A door at the end led them to the main desk in front of the storage. Atticus asked after his placement decision, but Dika was mesmerized by the weapons everywhere to come up with an actual answer.  [dika]"I don't really know. ARMA picked me up and decided that I'd be helpful here. Honestly I'm just a sabelotodo with a few degrees, I don't really know how much help I'm supposed to be."[/dika]   Dika turned to face Atticus and asked,  [dika]"Agent Gale, do you guys have anything like a flamethrower pistol? Este, Boba Fett in Return of the Jedi, or Pyro from X-Men, or John Constantine from the movie; that would be the coolest and obviously the easiest to handle, actual dragon's breath? Could you imagine!?!?"[/dika]   Dika was ticking off fingers as he counted through his ideas, getting the most excited about the little gold flute-like pistol from the Constantine movie. Bottled dragon's breath, he couldn't imagine the possibilities! In any case, he thought that it would be his best bet as a last line of defense, he didn't care to learn anything about guns and their upkeep and care. What would a bookworm like him ever need it for? He understood the need for a defense, but not for anything so technical and in-depth as firearms. He grinned even wider, his thoughts leading from firearms back to fire. 

    Link to comment

    Atticus placed his hand on the bio-scanner beside the door on the right, unlocking it, while listening intently and curiously to Endika’s description of his desired weapon.

    ‘Pyro? Yeah, the X-Men guy with the lighter. That Reeves movie. Not Christopher. Boba Fett?’ Atticus recalled when, the then, third instalment of the Star Wars saga came out. He was forty-three, much older than he appeared now. Back during the C.I.A. days. ‘He was old, but not so out of touch, three for three.’ Still, the context of the sci-fi references caught him a little off guard and Atticus could only respond with a dubious laugh and jesting accusation,[atticus]Eres un cabrón![/atticus] as he ushered Endika ahead of him.

     

    He hoped he got the Spanish right, it wasn't one of his more proficient tongues. He honestly didn’t know what else to say in response to such a request and questioned the man’s seriousness. It was a little unnerving that the weapon he was requesting just happened to be the sort that would be most detrimental to a being like himself. Was he aware? Atticus quickly addressed his paranoia and chalked it up to mere coincidence.

    Pharos was a treasure trove of relics and equipped with the latest in modern weaponry as well. You never knew what might come up and agents had to be prepared, hence the weapon most likely existed in some form or another. He did, however, question the wisdom of making such a request without good reason, and he himself couldn’t honestly come up with anything to validate such an application.

    [atticus]Is there a specific reason that you might require such a weapon?[/atticus] Atticus probed keeping his voice low, so as not to be overhead by the young woman at the counter. The transparent security barrier she was behind was perforated with an open area through which firearms and other weapons could be passed.

    In all due seriousness, it seemed a fair question. These were strange times and perhaps Endika had encountered foes that were resilient to all other forms of damage but fire? Who knew? But until he could assess the man’s sanity on the issue he rather preferred not to make a scene.

    Link to comment

    Dika couldn't help but be taken aback slightly when Atticus said 'cabrón'. Dika was sure that he had meant it in a playful manner, but that was yellow humor reserved for good friends or relatives. Dika wondered for a moment where he had picked up the word and how he learned it without learning the social constructs around it; a textbook seemed the most logical answer but what textbook taught foul slang language without social norms included, he wondered.

     

    They stopped at a security desk and Atticus asked after Dika's reasoning behind his desire for such a specific weapon. Dika's mind came up with a simple answer, because it looked cool. That wouldn't be a satisfactory answer, though, so Dika began to pontificate as their credentials were examined and they were allowed into the storage racks and shelves that made up the ammunitions hold.  [dika]"Honestly, because a weapon like that would be universally effective against most enemies; and when not effective against them say because they are a fire-wielding mage or creature or the like, it would at least garner me some respect as a fellow fire-wielder. Plus, it seems to me that it will be the easiest to learn how to use effectively with the least amount of skill and practice; as I'd rather devote my time to more academic areas of study."[/dika]   Dika was satisfied with his explanation and let his words settle in as he followed the small directory map on the wall to a section labelled Incendiaries.

     

    Once they reached the section with the sign hanging overhead that denoted the section of all things fire, Dika began travelling down the aisles of racks and shelves and inspecting the various and sundry items. He saw an 'Alaz Khan Torch : for protection and guidance' and shook his head no. He was looking for protection and get-rid-of-the-other-guy sort of devices. He saw a Brighid's Cross woven out of reeds and wondered momentarily why a symbol of a home and hearth goddess used for protection was here, but chalked it up to a likely hearth-fire connection and kept moving. Dika even saw a sword hanging on the wall that he was sure was something along the lines of Michael the Archangel's sword; and he didn't dare consider it.

     

    Dika halted mid-step as a pair of earplugs caught his eye. They were Mayan-styled and had tiny stone serpents affixed to the front of them. He stooped over to get a closer look and began reading the label they sat next to. It read 'Q'aq'awits earplugs - the salamander is a worldwide symbol of the element of fire, denoted in many different cultures and personifications. Here it is a serpent serving the volcano god of ancient MesoAmerica. Usable by wearing and…' Dika stopped paying attention at this point, firstly knowing that he couldn't and wouldn't wear the large earrings, and second by distracting himself by drawing cross-cultural comparisons of salamander creatures and volcano deities, knowing that there were quite a few, but they were restricted mostly to regions whose languages he had almost no grasp of. He knew there was an Aztec god who wore the same servant-earrings, a Hawaiian creator-goddess, the bastardized Santeria version of Aganju was a volcano deity even though the original Yoruban version wasn't since the people weren't near any volcanoes, he thought for a moment that the Japanese solar goddess Amaterasu was once cut into pieces and scattered among the islands, forming the major volcanoes of Japan, but couldn't be sure. Dika straightened himself back up and continued to scan the shelves for what he was looking for.

     

    Dika stopped again to inspect a jar of sand with a depiction of a lioness/woman on the label surrounded with heiroglyphic writing. Dika knew immediately that this was Sekhmet, the Egyptian goddess of fire. She was known to be a fierce warrior who was so powerful it was her very breath that created all of the Sahara Desert. Dika imagination roamed for a bit as he thought of what the sand did and how it could be used, but he honestly didn't care to find out; it wasn't what he was looking for in any case. Dika shook his head at it, clearing the questions from his mind and moved along the shelves.

     

    Dika's eye was caught by a huge blacksmith's hammer hefted up at an angle by a display stand. The handle was well-worked and the head was large and flat on one side with a smaller wedge-shape on the opposite side. Dika smiled as he thought of Hephaesteus, the Greek god of blacksmiths, metal, and of course fire. Hephaesteus was a creator, though, so Dika wondered why a tool representing creation was in a weapons storage. He came closer to the massive weapon and saw a symbol emblazoned on the side of the hammer's head. It was a knot woven around a diamond, and it appeared to be closer to an ancient European symbol than anything used by the Greeks. There was a booklet on the shelf next to the hammer that read Svarog's Hammer written in small text in English beneath much larger text in some Cyrillic writing. Dika made a small 'ahh' sound and nodded, remembering that one part of the Slav's holy trinity was a creator god that was represented by a blacksmith. He chuckled at the thought of him swinging around a giant hammer like that in defense of himself, much less the idea of concealing such a weighty thing. He continued to chuckle as he shook his head no and continued down the aisles.

     

    Dika stopped dead in his tracks as he came to the next shelf. There was a huge, lone birdcage large enough to fit an entire person inside standing up. His jaw dropped open as he saw what was inside of it; a magnificent jewelled bird! It was tall and slender and had been preening itself before Dika walked up, and had now locked eyes with him. Dika continued to marvel at the sight, its eyes huge unblinking rubies, it's body a sleek shaped goldstone. Dika broke eye contact with it to examine it's wings, which were unnaturally glittering with light; as it's wings were made of thousands of tiny gemstone shards in hues of red, orange, and yellow. This was a phoenix, of that Dika was sure. He saw an information placard on a stand in front of it and eagerly began running a finger along the text to confirm his theory. It did, of course, and went on to explain that phoenixes come up in mythology across the world, not just in Europe. Ancient Egyptians called them bennu, the Vermilion Bird is so respected in Chinese culture it is one of the Four Symbols of the constellations, Taoists revered them as the personification of fire in Wu Xing, Japanese suzaku, Hindu garuda, and the Arabian anka; the list went on. Dika scanned over the rest of the information, already knowing about their cycles of rebirth and their power over the sun, heat, and fire. Dika's gaze met with the phoenix's once again and he was overcame with a powerful urge to bow. He didn't understand it, but knew better than to question it. He didn't care about looking silly, it felt like the right thing to do at the time, so he did; Dika inclined his head and bent over low, remaining still and silent for a few moments until the feeling passed and he righted himself again. Dika had so many questions racing through his mind; like why was the creature caged? Why was it locked up and being stored as a weapon? What about other magical fire creatures, were they here too? Bottled-up afrits, jade-stone dragons, carved wood hellhounds? Wasn't there some sort of magical creature preserve more suited for the creature? Had this phoenix agreed to be offered as a fighting partner? Was this a particularly battle-fierce and fight-loving phoenix and so it needed to be separate but still wanted a chance for action? Dika made mental note to ask about all of these questions later, but for now he wanted to keep going, having no idea what awaited him next.

     

    Finally, after what felt like an hour of searching, Dika reached an entire rack of what he had been searching for: pistols. Dika again made a small noise, this time an 'oh-ho-ho' chuckle of excitement. Each of them was completely unique and embellished to match their use. One was pale silver gun with a simple design and labelled Ethereal Flame, while another looked like a large black knife with rivulets carved up and down the blade labelled Dead Flame. Dika shuddered at the thought of those two, having made friends with a few ghosts in his time and not wanting to think of what a 'dead flame' was. He skipped over a matching set of gold and ivory revolver-style pistols with crucifixes embossed into the handles, ignoring the alluring Holy Fire Pistols label they sported; as he didn’t care to get into doctrine-specific semantics about effectiveness. Next was a rusty copper pipe with various Theban symbols randomly scattered across the surface with the label Cold Fire, it sat next to an antler carved into a wand-like shape with runes scrimshawed into the active end, labelled Fairy Fire. Dika wasn't interested in cold fire, he didn't see the use; and he wanted actual fire not the enchanting illusions offered by the fae weapon. Dika once again stopped dead in his tracks when he saw it, a scepter carved out of sun-bleached ivory, or maybe bone, topped with a large oblong ore of ruby set deep into center, what Dika assumed was the marrow chamber. The shaft was smooth with use, and the end opposite the gem was capped with a dull grey metal dome with something resembling a Seal of Solomon engraved into it. Dika's gaze flew to the label, and there it read: Dragon's Breath. He picked up the booklet next to it and scanned past the majority of it, skipping the explanations of dragons and their existence worldwide and getting right to the nitty-gritty. The rod was a simple draw, aim, intone, and fire type of weapon. The endcap was a containment spell, the ruby was a channeller, and the bone, as Dika had correctly guessed, was said to be from a dragon and actually contain the fiery breath within it's hollow chamber. Dika chuckled to himself as he imagined it 'running empty' and heading over to the local dragon for a refill as if from a gas station. The booklet ended there, not explaining if he was correct about 'refilling' it or anything more explaining it; just the containment spell's origin and the activation word, which Dika was sure he could figure out into letting him use smaller jets of flame, adjusting the temperature, fiddling with the duration of time it worked for; he let his mind race with ideas. This excited him, this was what he was looking for: he reached out and picked it up, and found it was warm to his touch.

     

    Dika turned to Atticus, scepter in hand, and said  [dika]"I think this is what I'm looking for, shall we go try it out?".[/dika]

    Link to comment

    Atticus regrettably winced when the time came to reveal the reality of the treasure trove. There was a certain delight found in the observation of a ‘kid in a candy store’, especially to an old man who had seen so much in his time.

    [atticus]Amazing isn’t it.[/atticus] He stated, gesturing to the collection, [atticus]Like stepping into the tales of the Arabian Nights. Few have seen the like, nor will it be seen again for some time.[/atticus] Atticus explained, fingers running along the edge of an obsidian bow. Flickering flames of blue sparking his eyes as it’s ancient memories stirred the annals of a mythic mind.

    [atticus]The reallocation of one of our oldest archives in the area. It was feared that it’s location might have been compromised and so all it’s contents were temporarily moved here for transfer. You will never see so many relics in the same location. It’s not allowed. We have strict archival protocols.[/atticus]

    Atticus strolled toward a massive spear, the twenty-five foot long shaft too large in circumference to be effective in the hands of the largest of men. Tracing a finger along the strange runes engraved in the brass spear-head he pondered their meaning with reluctance, forcing his gaze back to Endika.

    [atticus]Pharos employs the use of such relics only in times of need.[/atticus] He sadly informed his eager companion, [atticus]What you hold is far too valuable and dangerous to risk falling into the hands of others. One of Pharos’ most important missions is to regulate and remove these arcane artifacts from the hands of the populace.[/atticus]

    Atticus didn’t enjoy dispelling the fantasy. When he first joined Pharos, he imagined he’d be exposed to ancient wonders beyond anything he’d ever seen. Not exactly. This temporary relocation of an archive was the most spectacular display of enchanted weaponry he’d ever seen in one place. Most of the items had been transferred from other locations around the world during World War II, when Hitler’s obsession with the arcane proved a great threat to Pharos. Now, the collection would be spread around many repositories.

    [atticus]Hope you’re not too disappointed. You unfortunately lack the security clearance to sign out such a weapon at this point in time, but, I don’t want to deny you the pleasure of trying it out.[/atticus] Atticus suggested, gesturing toward a corridor opposite the direction they’d entered, [atticus]There’s a secure testing area.[/atticus] he informed, leading the way to a heavy iron door with a small wheel in the center. With a twist, a heavy bolt clanged open and the door slowly swung inward.

    [atticus]Please.[/atticus] Atticus offered, showing Endika into a large room with a twenty foot ceiling. The walls were dark iron like the door and there was an observation window on the opposite side, facing the entryway. There nothing else in the room, except a collection of mannikins in the far corner.

    Link to comment

    Dika's face fell as Atticus shared the news with him about the temporary archive and the rule of not using the artifacts. He remained silent as Atticus led him into the ad hoc testing room. Dika inspected the wand further to make sure he understood what he was doing before he actually tried anything. He nodded sadly to himself and held it in his right hand, raising his arm and aiming the rod straight out in front of him, toward a mannequin at the end of the line. He took a deep breath and shouted, probably a bit louder than he needed to;  [dika]"CAB PALSE!" [/dika]

     

    The ruby flashed with red light as bright, hot fire arced out of the scepter, sweeping wide and lighting two more mannequins on fire and scorching the wall along the other side of his target. Dika laughed nearly as loud as he had shouted the incantation; it was so fun. Dika had never handled power before, having only been granted powers of sight and what little magical cast-offs other real mages had tattooed onto him.

     

    His moment of glee was short lived, however, when he remembered that this was all the power he was going to be allowed to handle. He lowered the rod and turned to face Atticus again.  [dika]"I understand the need to keep such dangers out of the hands of those who would abuse them; but do the possibilities for good outweigh the bad? Or is this a case of refusing the temptation? If so, how can we effectively defend ourselves against those who do have such awesome powers? What tools do we have at our disposal to control them? I know that in cases of dire need these artifacts may be available to help us avail over the evil-doers, as the cliche goes, but I think it needs to be understood that not all of us are powerful; and I wonder if there has yet been enough underpowered lives lost to force the reconsideration of equipping the others to protect them."[/dika]   Dika had let his gaze fall down to the wand in his hand, letting his words settle as his mind continued to race. He wondered if that was the major divide between agents; lower grades were more menial jobs with less danger attached simply because the agents were less powerful. He supposed that all of the higher-grade agents were as powerful as Agent Gale here, powerful enough to cause a magic-sensitive person like himself become overwhelmed and feel faint just to be near it. He looked back up from his hands to Atticus, awaiting an answer.

    Link to comment
    • 2 weeks later...

    Atticus leaned a thick shoulder against the cool metal wall, arms folded, the flicker of fire in pensive eyes as he weighed Endika’s words. An advocate for stricter gun laws, if not their complete removal from the hands of private citizens, he’d heard all the arguments before. But this was another world, power no longer resided in just the barrel of a gun. Themes popularized by science fantasy writings of empowered individuals were now all too true. The world had turned upside down and back again in an evolutionary blink. One couldn’t blame Endika for wanting to even the odds, the Vanguard had spend millions if not billions in perfecting weapons capable of defending the interests of the ‘common man’ from those of the ‘uncommon’. They even employed the ‘Empowered’, fighting fire with fire as the old saying went. There was little choice these days but to accept magic as a part of our day-to-day lives. It’s existence was inseparable, the goal now, to make it controllable.

    While Atticus found the delight of destruction in the newcomer’s eyes a tad troubling, he could only nod in agreement with the man’s logic. [atticus]Pharos provides ‘power’ when necessary. The goal of the organization is to, above all, maintain balance. We are not meant to, nor can we ever be perceived as a force bending the world to our will.[/atticus] The words were a proverbial, ‘double edged sword’. Pharos had always influenced the course of history, but their power for the most part, had always lied in subterfuge.

    [atticus]Part of being an agent of Pharos is regulation. We alone protect the world from our power. This ancient rod, [/atticus] his eyes fell to the ruby tipped wand, [atticus]possesses untapped potential. It is power useable by anyone. Weapons we strive to protect the world from. The risk of their use is simply too great unless the need to defend what we protect is dire.[/atticus]

    He hated to disappoint the man, but at the same time was pleased to inform him otherwise. [atticus]Pandora is an old archive, one known for the storage of a particular collection of weapons which you might find interesting. Bear in mind, I’m not making any promises.[/atticus] he was quick to add, [atticus]but as you’ve made a strong point on the necessity of such an equalizer, I may be able to pull a few strings.[/atticus]

    Pushing off the wall, Atticus began to slowly make his way back to the temporary archive.

    Link to comment

    Dika sighed and slowly nodded; understanding what Atticus was saying.  [dika]"I get it Agent Gale, I both understand and respect what Pharos does. I got into some big trouble down south, when El Cambio was still new; and being a mage put a target on my back while being weak made it bigger and easier to bulls-eye. You can't blame a guy for trying right?"[/dika]   Dika chuckled and followed Atticus out, returning the wand back on it's shelf, and heading out of the storage area. 

     

    Dika turned to the woman in the secured cubicle and smiled.  [dika]"Hola, I need a weapon. I am a new agent, Grade 1, and I have absolutely no experience with firearms; but I am a fast learner. I would like something easy to learn, discreet, and doesn't require a lot of skill: what can you do for me?"[/dika]

     

    The woman nodded and smiled politely, it wasn't her first rodeo with a newbie. She headed to the back section and made her choice easily. She grabbed a small case by the handle and carried it back to the counter, passing it through the little slot and to Dika. [npc]Open it dear.[/npc]

     

    Dika did so, snapping the fasteners open and lifting the hinged lid back. Inside sat a stub nose revolver, with a cylinder much longer than normal. Overall the gun was about 8 inches long, with a thick rubber grip over the handle. Beside it sat two five round speed loaders, and an instruction manual. It's nickel platting gleamed brightly in the store light as Dika admired it.

     

    [npc]This is the Taurus Judge, Public Defender edition. It's barrel is 4.5 inches shorter than the standard version, making it much easier to conceal. Depending on your ability to aim, it shoots either .45 Colt pistol rounds, or .410 shotgun shells; but you'll need the 2.5 inch shells if your going that route, which is what I'd suggest if your new to firearms. The trigger works as either a double action, meaning pull back the hammer first before pulling the trigger, or a single action. That way, if you don't feel comfortable pulling the hammer back, just pull the trigger and it'll fire; but, shooting that way makes your trigger pull longer, and will likely cause you to be a bit off on your aim, but like I said not much of an issue if you go the .410 route. In the box are two speed loaders, what you do is after you flip the cylinder out of the gun, you press the ejector rod to empty your old ammo, then you line the bullets in the speed loader up, put them in the holes and press the button on top of the handle; that lets go of the rounds, significantly increasing your reload speed. Additionally, we will provide you with 10 rounds, that's one set of shots and one reload's worth of specialty Pharos defense rounds; fully loaded with iron, silver, and the like. Everything you need to defend yourself against whatever you may come up against in your missions.[/npc] She saw the mystified look on Dika's face and laughed, covering her mouth and stifling herself. [npc]Sorry, there is a book included that has all of the information, tucked in the lid, see?[/npc] Dika nodded and pulled it out, showing her before returning it to the case. [npc]Come back for service or ammunition as needed; but make sure that you do bring it in for routine maintenance every three months, whether you have fired it or not. Anything else?[/npc] she asked.

     

    Dika nodded, closing the lid and snapping the clasps shut.  [dika]"What do you call the thing that straps across your chest that could hold the gun and the loading things?"[/dika]   Dika made gestures across his chest as he explained what he asking about.

     

    The woman laughed again and left for the back section, returning once more with a chest holster with several pouches attached. She fed it through the little slot and explained, [npc]You put it on one arm at a time, deciding where the gun will sit. It buckles in the front, and there are other straps to adjust it to fit, have someone help you. Also, it is ambidextrous, just kind of turn it inside out of itself and you can fit it to the other side; opposite from whichever is your dominant hand, so it's easier to draw.[/npc] She mimed the motion for Dika, helping to explain.

     

    Dika nodded and took the harness as well, making a mental note to remember how he fired the gun when he finally did so and to adjust the harness to fit the opposite of the hand he chose to use.

     

    [npc]Well, if that's all, stay safe and good luck![/npc] She waved as Atticus turned and left.

     

    Dika said a quick  [dika]"Gracias."[/dika]   and hurried after Atticus.

    Link to comment

    Atticus looked over his shoulder toward Endika, an apathetic glance falling to the slight bulge in his jacket where the gun resided. Atticus had always had a healthy fear of firearms, or any weapon that could allow one kill another with virtually no other skill than knowing how to pull a trigger. Even with all his gifts he was still susceptible to empowered frailty. Unfortunately, monsters, real ones stalked the land and for the first time he had to conceded that their defence was warranted.

    [atticus]Make sure to book some shooting time.[/atticus] He suggested, [atticus]There’s a booking app. I’ll send you the download later.[/atticus] He definitely didn’t want the man shooting himself in the foot, or worse.

    Hard soled footfalls echoed through the parking lot, the distinct chirp of the vehicle being remotely disarmed revealing the location of Atticus’ vehicle. [atticus]Please.[/atticus] Atticus welcomed, gesturing to the passenger door of the silver SUV. [atticus]Pandora’s up around New Haven.[/atticus] He mentioned as he opened the driver’s side door and slid in behind the wheel.

    [atticus]Ever been up that way?[/atticus] he inquired, while backing out his spot and proceeding to the exit. Some light conversation. Might as well get to know one another, for what it was worth. MacBride had stuck them together until Endika attained his Grade 2. By that time he would have attained enough experience to go it alone.

    Link to comment

    Dika's eyes grew wide as Atticus led him to the car. He got in and settled himself down, still marveling at the thought of Atticus' car, his mind whirled with wild reasonings on how Atticus could afford something like this; with cars being so rare.

     

    Dika snapped to attention at Atticus' question, and he responded  [dika]"Ah, no. Whenever I travelled to the states it was either to uh, ¿como se dice metropolitano? like a very big city? Anyway, either that or it was little houses or villages en pleno campo, with nothing around."[/dika]

     

    Dika left a few moments of silence to be polite before asking  [dika]"So, how can you afford a car? Aren't they rare and expensive? I thought they were hard to maintain and fuel these days. Is it the company's?"[/dika]

    Link to comment

    Atticus’ brow furrowed with curiosity. The parking garage was not brimming with automobiles as it once would have been, but a good portion of the population still owned vehicles. If he had frequented larger centres Endika would have known this, but then, it really did depend on specifically where he had spent his time. New York, for instance, retained enough of a populace to maintain sales. The sudden decimation of the populace had left most of the world with a surplus balancing out the collapse of the auto manufacturing industry, so newer ones were rare. Most vehicles were from the time of the Resonance, technically still new, just not current. It was the contemporary model of his SUV that Atticus assumed Endika was referring to. The model was recent and for a person of his ‘apparent’ age the price tag of such rarities were usually out of range.

    [atticus]I’m rich and yes, new models are.[/atticus] Atticus directly answered his companion’s questions.[atticus] Maintenance isn’t much of a problem in New York, but yeah, when you get into the rural areas, parts can be scare and expensive. Here the excess of vehicles help compensate.[/atticus]

    [atticus]Pre-nevus models are affordable, I mean, depending on what you’re looking for. Gas prices can be steep… expensive.[/atticus] He elaborated in case Endika became confused by his colloquialisms. [atticus]But they’ve been holding steady for the last few months.[/atticus]

    From what he was aware of, fuel supplies were still holding and some refineries still functioning. Alternative fuels were on the rise, as well as alternative forms of engines. Some Elves, were also producing clean forms of Ethanol via environmentally friendly methods.

    [atticus]You looking to buy one? Pharos does provide company vehicles.[/atticus] Atticus mentioned, as sunlight beamed through windshield while he pulled out of the parking garage and onto the street. Retrieving his sunglasses from a small compartment in the dashboard he slipped on the amber coloured shades and relaxed his squint.

    Link to comment

    Dika smiled at what Atticus said. He would love to own a vehicle, especially a motorcycle. It would be even better if Pharos was willing to pay for it. Dika nodded and said  [dika]"Yes, actually, I'd love to get a motorcycle. I didn't realize cars were so common still. After the event, Venezuela went to hell. The government completely collapsed, crime lords became kings, everyone became strangers to everyone else, families and even whole neighborhoods were ripped apart by drugs, gangs, and the paja that came along with them. Kidnappings, stealing, home invasions, and worse. I was lucky enough to fall in with a gang of sobrenaturales before I tried striking out on my own, I was the only mage in the gang and I was a conejo. I lasted a little while on my own before ARMA picked me up and helped me get on my feet here in the states. I've only been here a few weeks, I'm still getting used to everything."[/dika]

     

    Dika quickly changed the subject, hating the idea of appearing to try and milk a sob story.  [dika]"What about you?"[/dika]   he asked.  [dika]"You've got to have some pretty great stories, with powers like those."[/dika]   Dika was fishing for any information Atticus might give him, hoping that he wasn't being too obvious about it.

    Link to comment

    Atticus’ jaw grew taut before the cast of Endika’s baited query, his silence stretching for a few city blocks. The passing sights were a stark contrast to Endika’s homeland. It all made sense now. By comparison, law and order in the Alliance, the Federation and the Coalition had remained intact, even through the ‘apocalyptic years’. Powerful organizations, factions, like the Vanguard and the Order had maintained a semblance of order until the return of a government structure in 2017. Complete collapses had occurred in middle America, Canada, Mexico and Central America. Regions ruled by very much the same influences Endika despairingly recalled. Atticus couldn’t help but to feel privileged to be apart of this newcomer’s exposure to this bastion of democracy in their turbulent world; or at least the illusion of it. Amidst the ‘law and order’ lied the factions of the new world, ever vying for control. Still, better than the chaotic alternative.

    [atticus]I may have run into one or two war lords.[/atticus] Atticus related, as they swung east into the Triborough; three bridges that formed the Triborough Bridge complex all named after Robert F. Kennedy, as Atticus would take the time to explain. [atticus]This is the Harlem River bridge, we’ll be crossing over the Bronx Kill bridge and over there,[/atticus] he gestured beyond the raised railway track running parallel to the road to a grand suspension bridge in the distance, [atticus]is the Hell Gate crossing the East River.[/atticus] He also pointed out that they were crossing over Randall’s and Ward’s Islands, then shared some lesser known trivia, that Ward’s Island was indeed so named for the Ward Family of the Ward Institute. Jasper and Bartholomew Ward, the sons of judge Stephen Ward purchased the island back in 1784. Not only was their family deeply rooted in the Pharos organization, but in New York’s rich history as well.

    [atticus]I wonder if our chronicles will become myth or simply common place in the future?[/atticus] Atticus posed as they crossed the Bronx Kill, a gothic truss bridge across a small strait. It was a philosophical question he often pondered. [atticus]To tell you the truth, both prospects fill me with dread. I don’t want to lose who I am. This is a threat that Metahumans, like myself, live with every day, forgetting more of what we are each time we embrace what we have become. This is a common struggle for people like me, who by all rights appear human.[/atticus]

    Atticus wasn’t sure if the Magus could understand. Meta’s that fully embraced their ‘alteration’ ended up unleashing a barrage of genetic memories on their psyche, forcing a complete change. Quite often, these people lost a portion, if not all of their ‘self’, or rather they were redefined. It was difficult to explain, but quite simply put, he wasn’t at all willing to give up science for the wind.

    [atticus]I honestly don’t recall much of my supernatural moments with clarity.[/atticus] He told Endika, a deception, one told so he wouldn’t have to remember. Even recollections took a toll and so it was easier to lie than to laboriously explain the complexities.

    [atticus]We can look into requisitioning a motorcycle.[/atticus] Atticus offered, [atticus]Not exactly a practical vehicle from a company perspective but I believe they’re available. Seem to recall the Ward Institute will also finance a vehicle similar to the principal of a lease to own.[/atticus]

    They were heading toward the 278 which would link up with the 95, an interstate that ran along Long Island sound. Roughly a forty-five minute trip to New Haven, give or take. There would be several check points along the way, stations policed by Border Guards. Brave souls ensuring the safety of the perimeters, a thankless job. Many of them were ex-military, vets and the like, unable to divorce themselves from the life of a soldier. The Border Guard provided a sanctuary for these rugged fighters, or ‘Rangers’ as they were commonly referred to. The first station, as Atticus recalled, would be outside of Port Chester, just at the Connecticut border.

    Link to comment

    The silence and quick change of topic to the landscape and sights to see made it clear that Dika had made Atticus uncomfortable. Atticus did eventually give Dika a small glimpse towards his past but he had made it clear it was a sore subject; Dika noted not to bring it up again.

     

    Glad to have the opportunity for a vehicle and a more comfortable conversation, Dika began to explain himself.  [dika]"If your concern about it being practical comes from the long-range capabilities, there are longer-riding bikes available. Plus, I'd love an electric bike. Add on a few storage compartments and throw a heavy-duty solar panel generator in one, you've got yourself a pretty great and low-maintenance ride. Later I'll fill out a requisition and get the word around to the right people and figure it out."[/dika]

     

    Dika let the silence fill the car again, watching the water as they drove along the city-controlled coast. He did love the beach on a sunny day; he knew it would be too cold to enjoy it right now, but he let his imagination wander nonetheless.

    Link to comment

    They were headed through the Bronx, the frequency of abandoned neighbourhoods increasing; what could be seen from the expressway. New York, like most major cities, was a patchwork of populated areas. Some communities never bounced back, there were even a few lingering remnants of zombie quarantines and the like. Still, Atticus assumed it was a far cry from what his companion was used to.

    From the secondary controls on the steering wheel, Atticus turned on the radio. A female broadcaster was in the middle of reporting on the Galway Act and how President Stanley continued to denounce the Outworlder Registration. “The Alliance will continue to offer refugee status to all Outworlders.” the president promised.

    Atticus was skeptical. [atticus]Stanley’s going to run into a lot of opposition from the Vanguard and the Order.[/atticus] He mentioned, curious if Endika possessed an opinion on such matters, [atticus]The government’s still young,[/atticus] he clarified, [atticus]and these factions have yet to completely relinquish their control.[/atticus]

    Link to comment

    Dika made a small 'mmhmm' sound; informing Atticus that he had heard him. He continued to stay silent, however; choosing not to speak on the subject. He heard the words 'president' and 'refugee' and knew that he shouldn't speak on the matter even if he did know who any of these people were. He wasn't a part of this society, at least not yet. He didn't have the right to form an opinion yet; and even if he had made one he wasn't sure if he should be discussing political views with a co-worker. He just stared out the window and watched the city go by.

     

    Dika saw signs for New Rochelle and Greenwich and their corresponding exit numbers. He had yet to see a sign for New Haven and wondered how far outside of the city it actually was. They continued to drive as the people on the radio continued to drone on in the background. The signs eventually changed to Greenwich and Stamford, showing that they were in fact headed towards something on the seemingly endless expanse of road in front of them; with nothing but abandoned cities to their left and water to their right. There was a large blue sign on the right of them coming up, and Dika lazily flicked his gaze to it to read 'New York State Line' followed underneath by 'Connecticut Welcomes You!' and then just below that 'Greenwich next 4 exits'. Dika quickly straightened up in his seat and looked over at Atticus, asking  [dika]"We are leaving New York? Is this connect-it-cut another state? I didn't realize where we are going was so far."[/dika]   Dika wasn't alarmed much, he had left the city before to make a trip to Philadelphia before and it wasn't a very far drive as he remembered. He just wished he knew the area better and could get around by himself for these longer trips. Although now it wasn't as feasible or even as necessary to make such long trips anymore.

    Link to comment

    Atticus acknowledged Endika’s question with a nod, a little disappointed in his companion’s reluctance to talk about politics. Of course, being from another country he probably wasn’t too familiar with the culture yet, he considered.

    [atticus]Ever been out of New York before?[/atticus] Atticus inquired, curious of the extent of the man’s travels. [atticus]You’ll end up seeing quite a bit of the country with Pharos. We go where we’re needed, sometimes other countries. My research often takes me to Canada. Ever been up there?[/atticus]

    While zombies remained prevalent in some parts of the Tri-Americas, they were especially abundant in Canada. His home away from home.

    Link to comment

    Dika shook his head no.  [dika]"I haven't ever been to Canada. I have been to other cities in the states; Chicago, San Francisco, New Orleans, and a few more I don't remember from when I was very young. I never traveled outside of the cities, we were always visiting on business. I don't mind travelling outside of them though, we used to also visit small villages and camps to see the shamans and spirit-workers that stayed away from big city life. My parents were anthropologists, so it was all a part of the experience."[/dika]

     

    The signs were changing now; they were near the exits for Stamford and the next were going to be for Norwalk. A sign flashed by that said 'New Haven 40 Miles'.

    Link to comment

    Chicago, San Fran, Mardi Gras, Atticus had been all over the place, the old memories still vivid in his altered mind. There was a pleasant reassurance in the recollections of the man he once was, a continuation rather than the rebranding he feared.

    He noted the sign and it wasn’t much longer after Atticus slowed, pulling into a long line of vehicles crawling along on overpass. At the center of the tall bridge a wall stone barriers had been constructed.Ten high and ten deep, an impassible bastion to the heaviest of commercial vehicles. The line passed through narrow channel, just wide enough for a semi-truck. Thankfully there were no inspections, though there were border guards present. Ex-soldiers, armed to the teeth, ensuring the safety of those traveling outside of the protected populated areas.

    ‘The real world’ Atticus thought to himself. He didn’t bother to comment figuring that Endika was all too familiar with ‘The Real’.

    On the other side of the barrier there was a station outpost and line of military vehicles, a few armoured and weaponized. One never knew what you might come up against so they were prepared for just about anything shy of Godzilla.

    [atticus]Well, there they are.[/atticus] Atticus stated. He’d always had mixed feelings about the military but couldn’t rightly say their society couldn’t exist without them.

    Accelerating with the flow of the traffic, they continued northeast along the 95. The frequency of the vehicles steadily declining the closer they got to New Haven.

    [atticus]Connecticut was devastated by the dead. Most of the population was infected and so only the major centres, Hartford, Bridgeport, coming up, and of course New Haven maintain an economy.[/atticus] Atticus informed the foreigner.

    The barrenness and bleakness of the urban landscape was evident. If people continued to live in the smaller settlements they did so at their own risk.

    [atticus]Look there.[/atticus] Atticus alerted, excitedly pointing out the passenger window. It was the same reaction one had when they saw a deer within the modern world, but the shambling movement in the distance were far from the grace of a buck or doe. Still, he looked on with the same wonder, watching the zombies with a fascinated wonder.

    [atticus]Didn’t think we’d see a herd so close to the interstate in the day. Amazing, eh?! They just keep on going.[/atticus]

    The zombie hoard of approximately fifty individuals meandered through the brush, mindless creatures guided by baser instincts. Congregating into a collective mass to increase the odds of trapping prey. Atticus wished he had his gear with him. He would have loved to gotten some blood samples. The border guards would most likely dispose of the herd before nightfall.

    Link to comment

    Archived

    This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

    • CURRENT RESONANCE DATE

    • RESONANCE - 18+ 3/3/3

      • A modern/fantasy, intermediate+ collaborative writer's rp. Caters to an experienced player base (25+) with a slower, more relaxed pace.
    • HELP GETTING STARTED? TRY A CANON!

      • 41f3d9eb35f930d5dc44ad8ade983b8e.jpg   6d8f5289ec09a7848237ad4fd3a06e3f.jpg   007fff0d107209cabc4ba334e56e593d.png
        8bcb54940bfd412123dc5bf8b88660b8.gif   0524927e32365acf2423cae0ea7b74f1.png  360d172315c70289fec9fc00324ae36c.gif
    ×
    ×
    • Create New...