The Nether Realm

Seating plan: Zoya - August - Yves - Polly - Lucian - Ish - Maude - Baba Yaga

Baba Yaga 16:05

Their coming was announced by a dreadful event ; the Friend worked to answer the questions before the darkness ascended, but with the recent occurrences and the slashes of metaphysical claws, she did not need to look the Ball into the Eye to know that the Six are coming - and if it was a lighter situation, perhaps she would’ve played around, toyed with their mood and amused herself with both ignorance and fear oozing from their pores. But, it was a solemn situation and there was no need to sour it further - her appearance, all clad in black lace and her silver hair adorned with silver-and-amethyst pins, black tourmaline and obsidian and onyx hanging from her ears, neck, and clasped around her wrists and long, bony fingers, was enough to put that primal fear in people’s hearts.

“Come all, and enter. Leave your doubts behind you, or walk no further - the doorway opens and if you come here to mock or ridicule, your sanity may soon leave you.” A fair and usual warning, whisper soft murmur echoing through the tent as the people enter. “You are late. Take your seats and let us begin. Be careful to not disrupt the ring of salt behind your chairs. Do not move until all is spoken and answered, and the spirits are laid to rest.” Baba Yaga speaks and the watery gaze softens for a brief moment as she watches the attendees in her tent, fingers curling around the chicken foot hanging from her neck and pressing against her beating heart.

Polly Sheedy 16:09

Polly was terrified beyond belief. None of this gave them any comfort, but they had far too many questions, and too few answers. There were few who could provide them, but Baba Yaga was one. Their eyes fell to the chicken foot, and they felt a little queasy, but dutifully, silently, sank into their seat.

Lucian Riviera 16:10

He took a seat as requested, to the right of Polly and left of Ish, the previous experience had left him with more questions than answers. It had also stirred the notion of an idea he wished to put to the test today when he'd heard of a second reading. An idea he'd planted in Maude's mind at the botanical garden not several days past. Idly he wondered if she would act on his whimsical notion but there was only one way to find out.

Yves Sinclair 16:10

He had desired answers and from the passing words of other, he had heard of possibilities and promises. Not much of a superstitious man, Yves would've been fine all on his own if it weren't for the recent events of death that seemed to linger at the corner of every street. Even his own mind seemed to begin playing games with him as he felt an inkling of strange ... paranoia overcome him. Thus, here he was - ready to follow the directions of Baba Yaga, perhaps she would have answers to the prodding questions in his mind.

Ish Hassan 16:12

Ish was still shaken from the previous encounter with the world beyond the veil. He'd tried to convince himself time and time again that it was all made up nonsense designed to get inside their heads, parlor tricks and games, vague stories that made the hairs on the backs of their arms stand him. He tried to act like none of this was true. He followed the stranger's instructions, taking his seat.

Maude Lytton 16:13

Maude enters the tent, her expression serious and formal, as she did not want to admit to have been convinced of the existence of ghosts by a stranger no less. She sits on the chair and gives a sharp glance at Mr Riviera's direction. She only hopes that the woman doing the séance is not some kind of charlatan, although the chicken feet are a nice touch.

Baba Yaga 16:14

Lips stretch into a smile and the old woman laces her fingers together. “Everyone in attendance remove your gloves, if you have them, and place your hands on the table. If you seek the comfort of another living creature’s touch, you may join hands with the people sitting beside you. With the outwardly placed circle, contact is not necessary for the communication to flow.” Baba Yaga’s smile disappears, head tilting to the side, as if she’s listening to a noise behind her - slowly, she turned, and the misty gaze fixes upon the First, upon Yves ; “You, boy! Ask us.”

Ish Hassan 16:26

He felt no need to hold hands with anyone. At least Baba Yaga didn't require it of them, so he placed his hands on the table, remaining quiet as he listened to the young man ask his questions.

Yves Sinclair 16:17

While the others appeared to react in fear, Yves was nonetheless intrigued - his curiosity had certainly piqued, gaze fixated a bit on the strangeness of the chicken feet. There were so many questions racing through his head and yet, which one was he to ask? It was as if his throat was caught but he finally managed to utter the words, "Who is it that is here?" Perhaps it was a foolish question but surely, there must be an identity to those who lingered from the otherworld. He wanted names, identities to put upon the faceless entities.

Baba Yaga 16:20

Eyes glazed over, the old witch smiles. "Wrong questions you ask, Yves. Who? Perhaps a what would be more suited."

Yves Sinclair 16:23

Of course there would be mysteries upon mysteries to something as strange and unthinkable of the supernatural. It would be too easy to receive an answer he mused. He pursed his lips to ask yet another question but paused - perhaps this time he'd make an attempt to sound less like an imbecile. "Then the ghost ... I believe there is one that has had the ill fortunate of attaching itself to me, pray - what for? Why?"

Baba Yaga 16:25

The woman's smile widens, a distortion of warmth ; of rot and madness intertwined. "For your sanity."

Polly Sheedy 16:28

If they had been scared upon entering, that feeling only worsened as proceedings began. Polly let out a tiny, almost imperceptible squeak, wide eyes darting between Yves and the old witch.

Zoya Fox 16:32

Zoya had to give it the old witch -- the lace, the jewels, her clothing seemingly woven from night itself all worked in her favor. Zoya was not a skeptical woman, but she still had to credit someone's performance in the face of many who seemed not to believe.

Zoya was not a fearful woman, either, though perhaps she should've been as her gaze darted curiously between Yves and Baba Yaga.

Yves Sinclair 16:30

He nearly snorted, what sanity was there for someone like him? Certainly the dead would have better judgement but perhaps that was an overestimation. "Then what of the girl? Chapman I believe, is she present? Perhaps she may unearth the truth of her ill fated passing." Yves wanted a hard fact, anything to show proof that this was truly, real.

Baba Yaga 16:34

Head tilts to the side, watery eyes glazed with something akin to mirth, and then she speaks. "Such rotten mind you have! Little Annie might be dead and buried, but why do you think she'd answer to you? Better still, why do you think we will let her speak? Her soul has not departed, but a place she haunts is not here."

Yves Sinclair 16:36

A part of him almost smiled, surely rotten was an understatement - his mind was akin to filth in some shape or form. "Poor girl must have something to say if she's rationale enough to seek justice ... it all seems so strange," he muttered. "And the man, perhaps she could speak of him. Where is that man?" Yves gaze was fixed. He wanted a story.

Maude Lytton 16:37

Maude frowns, not liking this new information, not liking it at all. These ghosts enjoyed playing with their questions and attention then? She also hoped, naively, that the poor woman was in a better place. Perhaps an afterlife or maybe even oblivion would be better than become a haunting. She attempts to give Polly a comforting smile, very probably failing.

Lucian Riviera 16:38

Now that was interesting, but the place she haunts is not here? Baba Yaga seemed to provide more insight than Muiris' vague responses. But did that mean they would have to conduct a séance around the space of where the recently departed's demise had occurred?

Baba Yaga 16:38

The smile drops and it's exchanged with a frown. She sniffs, as if she's been crying, before her expression turns to rage and the witch growls ; “Away, away he went - they never stay once the deed is done.”

Polly Sheedy 16:40

They caught Maude's eye, offering a shaky, half-smile that didn't reach their eyes. Had they been sat beside her, they would have no qualms about gripping her hand tightly on the table. Every question, and every answer, was hitting far too close for comfort.

Zoya Fox 16:41

She frowns at the answer, instinctively leaning closer in interest. How intriguing. How foreboding.

Yves Sinclair 16:40

The new information was something. He hadn't realized he had been holding his breath for the answer. "The deed ... so you can confirm that he is the culprit?" He wished he had brought a notepad to jot it all down but then again, he had yet to see evidence with his own eyes. Was he buying into it all so quickly with the ravings of a seemingly mad woman?

Baba Yaga 16:42

Watery eyes fix upon the boy and the corners of her mouth quick into another smile. "Someone is. But, it is not the one you suspect, little boy."

Yves Sinclair 16:44

A quizzical look flashed upon Yve's fair features. "I'm not exactly the brightest," he muttered or so were the words of his father. Yves glanced over at the others. Surely one of them would have some more insight. "So then the culprit remains free and on the prowl?"

Baba Yaga 16:47

The witch's expression softens, but it wasn't her who spoke. "Brighter than you think. Though, perhaps, it is safer for you to remain dim witted." A grin stretches her lips, and then she nods - pure excitement radiating off her. "Oh, yes! Yes, yes, yes! Free and hungering for more blood, sweet boy!"

Yves Sinclair 16:50

"Dumb and free is better than clever and dead I suppose," he murmured. The confirmation was expected but it still sent chills down his body. "Then all I have left to ask is if these ghosts that haunt, are they merely bored perverts?" A mischievous grin appeared on his visage, a part of him nearly laughed (wholly inappropriate) but everyone else appeared so grim it was truly as if they were in attendance of a funeral.

Polly Sheedy 16:51

despite their fear, the utter terror that gripped their heart, Polly spluttered a little, the first genuine smile coming to their face since they left the Britannia a week before.

Lucian Riviera 16:52

It was only just that Lucian stifled a snort at the young man's retort, he'd been raked over hot coals by this spirit but it seemed he could give as good as he got. Commendable by all accounts if a little unwise to taunt the dead.

Ish Hassan 16:55

Ish's eyes widened, unable to hold a stoic reaction around the young man. He'd been working around the docks most of his life, so few things could surprise him, but there was something to the unparalleled confidence of Yves that took him off-guard.

Baba Yaga 16:53

The expression falls, and the gaze turns stormy, but a gleeful grin plays on her lips. "We are not chained by the same rules that chain you. We are here to drink. To eat. Though our sustenance comes from your sanity. Now i have a question for you, little boy. How long do you think you can hold onto yours?"

Zoya Fox 16:56

Like Lucian and Polly, she also stifled a short laugh, eyes glimmering with amusement. Finally, someone brash enough to shake up the bleak atmosphere. The amusement faded from her features as a voice spoke once more, and she wondered vaguely just what sort of demons were haunting Yves.

Yves Sinclair 16:57

For all his faults, he was a rather honest boy. "Not long." But if he were to truly lose it all, he'd certainly go out with a bang. "But the mania could be fun," he pondered the idea for a moment, how much more of a family disappointment could he really be sounded like the true challenge of the question. He had said his share and now it was up to the rest of the lot.

Baba Yaga 16:59

The smile widens for a brief moment - then the head tilts to the side, listening, listening. The curtain moves and the old woman laughs - but, the laughter does not belong to her. The moment of minute insanity passes and she takes a sip of a strong, spiced liquor in front of her, before the expression turns apologetic, sliding from Yves towards another ; and a giggle erupts from her when the Second and Third come hand in hand - but, it is to the Second she turns first, the owner of Britannia. “What do you seek to unravel?”

Ish Hassan 17:01

He had known that Baba Yaga would call upon him, and somehow he was still unprepared for it. He couldn't help but be conscious of the other sets of eyes and ears in the room. The things he wanted to ask weren't exactly things he wanted to say in front of the others, but that was the nature of the beast (no pun intended). "When I asked how you died, you said who's to say I lived. If you didn't live, then what exactly are you?"

Baba Yaga 17:04

The woman laughs, and the feeling that washes over her is giddy ; almost teasing. “Who is to say I have never lived? All that is alive will one day die.” Then the expression drops and something sombre takes over her. "Yet not all that is dead had once lived. I am dead - and dead I will remain."

Yves Sinclair 17:05

The concept of something that wasn't truly alive but not entirely dead sounded like nonsense in its entirety. For all Yves could put together, this entity could've been as trivial as an ant. Their gaze remained on Ish as they wondered what otherworld being chose to latch unto him.

Polly Sheedy 17:06

they had to hold back the shiver that ran up their spine. To talk of ghosts was one thing - the dead had been people too once. But Yves first, and then Ish, spoke of something else, a different matter entirely. Baba Yaga's answer puzzled them, unable to make sense of the riddles in the words of the spectre.

Lucian Riviera 17:06

As the attention in the room shifted to Ish he naturally reached for his cane, discreetly unscrewing the handle and returning the blackwood to rest against the arm of his seat. The handle remained in his palm, upended and a cap flicked open, tonight was certainly proving more insightful he thought as he took a sip of the contents though Ish's spectre seemed unwilling to provide anything of true note.

Ish Hassan 17:08

He felt all their eyes upon him, the penetrating gaze of intense curiosity, of perhaps fear. He wet his lips with his tongue, keeping his hands flat on the table in a conscious effort not to toy with them awkwardly. The answer gave him nothing. "Do you know who is responsible for the Whitechapel Murders?"

Maude Lytton 17:10

For once she is distracted by something, she looks at Mr Riviera drinking in the middle of a séance and talk of murders. If she forced her empathy, she would understand the need for something stronger in a stressful situation, but still

Lucian Riviera 17:10

The shift in his curiosity is immediate and there is no helping the way his eyes flicker over to Maude, a small expression that might very well mimic the implication of I told you so reflected in the bright intensity of his gaze.

Polly Sheedy 17:10

their breath hitches in their throat, eyes locked on Ish. They were almost certain that he was dangerous - was he asking to discern the answer, or to find out how much he himself had to hide?

August Palmer 17:10

August’s role as an actor was to untangle words, not make them. He considered briefly sending the riddle to his brother—the academic one, ever eager for a puzzle. The mention of the Whitechapel Murders broke his thought. He watched closely.

Baba Yaga 17:09

The witch's head tilts to the side, watery eyes fixing upon the man - and her smile widens. "Yes."

Zoya Fox 17:12

her eyes widen at baba's proclamation, but she supposed it'd be too much to actually reveal the killer's identity. it'd surely make maude's job much easier.

Ish Hassan 17:11

Was that it? Ish narrowed his eyes, brows knitting together as he looked upon the woman, the vessel. "That's really all you're going to say about it?" He scoffed, shaking his head. He wanted to ask is it me? but he didn't dare, especially in front of the others. "Where do you go when you're not with me?"

Baba Yaga 17:12

The woman giggles in amusement. "Yes." ; but, then her smile widens and it dances between mirth, and wickedness, and madness. "I never leave you."

Maude Lytton 17:13

Once again she stops her desire to stare suspiciously at Mr Hassan. Just a slight glance, with her memorising his expression and the entity's words. She's going to have to talk with him at some point in next days.

Ish Hassan 17:14

Well, that was fucking horrifying. A cold chill made its way down Ish's spine, hairs standing on end on the arms beneath his jacket. He was quiet a moment, unsure how much further to go, unsure whether he wanted the answers, but unable to keep himself from asking the questions. "Are you the reason I've been having blackouts?"

Zoya Fox 17:15

her gaze slides briefly to ish in curiosity. another ghost with an attachment—the dead were awfully obsessive. but what was the owner of the brittania hiding that called the spirit to him so? blackouts?

Polly Sheedy 17:15

Blackouts? That was.. interesting to say the least. It did little to turn off the gut feeling they had about Ish, the sensation that he could hurt them, but perhaps it explained the moments of kindness they felt in between.

Lucian Riviera 17:16

His attention on Maude was enough to pick up the glance in Ish's direction, all focus on him true but this gave him the impression of something else. He'd known Ish a long time, long enough that he had faith in the man despite his strange demeanor of late. But his latest question... Black outs? Well, that was interesting to say the least.

Maude Lytton 17:16

Blackouts? the man who acted was too much nervous near authorities and had a dead being imply dangerous things, had blackouts

Yves Sinclair 17:18

Blackouts? well Yves could relate to a certain degree. After all, he had it happen several times when he had a bit too much booze and was out on the streets promenading and doing all the things a rake enjoyed doing. Maybe Ish was like him. But judging from the man's reactions, something told Yves otherwise.

Baba Yaga 17:16

She laughs, something high pitched and ringing of triumph. "Ah, so you do know what questions to ask! Yes! Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes! And they will never cease!" She laughs again, cold eyes fixed upon the poor, young man.

Lucian Riviera 17:19

He had little intention to call upon the child that seemed to have opted to return to him today. He had questions, and at the response sat forwards a little in his seat eyes burning with intense curiosity.

Polly Sheedy 17:20

They felt utterly sick to their stomach, head shaking from side to side as though trying to prevent the woman's words from reaching their ears. For the first time, they felt a pang of sympathy for Ish. Being haunted was disturbing enough but this ... there was nothing about this that any sane person could handle

Ish Hassan 17:20

He remained motionless and quiet for several moments. He was certain he could feel his heart hammering away in his chest, echoing in his ears. He was frozen, and could only stare at his own hands so as not to make eye contact with anyone else in the room.

August Palmer 17:22

August made a mental note to steer clear of the Britannia for a little while, or perhaps the East End altogether.

Baba Yaga 17:22

To the Third she now looks, and the expression shifts into something warmer, before it fades, confusion briefly evident on her face as she takes a long sip of the drink, fueling her vision, eyeing Lucian. “You are strange. They like you, but they don’t like you. Speak, and let us answer.”

Yves Sinclair 17:24

And he thought he was indecisive, seemed like this ghost had commitment issues like him. Well it was nice the dead were relatable, made sense given they were once human too.

Lucian Riviera 17:25

His smile was wry at that, "well, they wouldn't be the only ones to be conflicted on that account," his head tilted thinking of the strange spirit that had seemingly chosen to attach itself to Ish. It sounded crazed, like the stories of souls he’d heard were confined to the walls of Bedlam not but several miles from here. The revelation lingered and he had questions his eyes darted briefly aside to his accomplice who was looking at anything but any other person in the room. “I wish to speak to the spirit bothering Mister Hassan, for how long is it that you have kept him company?”

Ish Hassan 17:27

Ish stared at Lucian. No, this wasn't how it was supposed to go. "What are you doing?" he asked in a desperate whisper to Lucian. "Don't speak to it..."

Baba Yaga 17:26

She turns and the grin returns. "Forever."

Lucian Riviera 17:28

His attention remained fixed on Baba Yaga as Ish spoke up, but his expression was resolute, determined. "I find that hard to believe considering how long I've known the man," his posture straightened, hands clasping together around the flask in front of him as he leaned on the table. "What business is it that keeps you from moving on or do you just enjoy torturing good people?"

Yves Sinclair 17:29

He wondered how many of people would be interested in a good ol drink after all this. He wondered if it was even possible for a ghost to properly haunt should they all be caught in a drunk stupor.

Baba Yaga 17:31

The smile remains wide and the teeth appear sharp - sharper than they are. “What keeps us all from moving on, Lucian? Dead or alive, what difference does it make? Resentments and pain, delight and madness. We all feed from what you give us.” She pauses and then the cold eyes fix upon Lucian's. "You've known him long but I've claimed him longer. You feels us and you don't feel us. You dance to tunes we play, when we play them." The smile widens again ; "There are no good people, Lucian."

Lucian Riviera 17:35

The reasoning the ghost provided made sense, which meant that in order to sort this situation for any of them they would just have to cut this thing off. Starve it out into exposure and deal with it then. "I wouldn't go so far as to say that, there are some good people in this world," his eyes narrowed a fraction, "do we have anything to fear from you?"

Polly Sheedy 17:36

They frowned. They would never disagree out loud, too afraid of angering the spirits that joined them, but on that front, they could not agree. If there were no good people, then what was the point to anything? They were grateful to Lucian for voicing everything they were thinking, and shot him a look of appreciation.

Ish Hassan 17:43

He wasn't convinced he was 'good people', but Lucian's defense of him was rather touching. He might have been a thief, liar and cheat, but Lucian was also a pretty good friend. It would have been comforting, had there been anything in this situation that would allow Ish to be comforted at all. Of course they had something to fear. They should all be terrified.

  Baba Yaga 17:37

The witch smiles. "If there are, you are not one of them." Head tilts to the side and she the razor sharp grin returns. "Undoubtedly."

Lucian Riviera 17:40

The chuckle that follows is quiet albeit rueful, "ah, so kind of you to give your judgement of a stranger but you didn't answer my question."

Maude Lytton 17:41

Interesting that the entity thought of Mr Riviera as a bad man, wasn't he known for his philanthropy? What would make it have this opinion? It could be also theorised that the ghost was lying, no matter how much suspicious Mr Hassan looked like

Zoya Fox 17:47

when hardly anyone saw through lucian, this ghost did. yes, lucian had helped her as a young girl, but he was certainly not a saint.

  Polly Sheedy 17:48

The assessment of Lucian was another thing Polly did not agree with. They let out a small cough, a frown appearing on their face. "I think otherwise," they said in a half of a whisper.

  Lucian Riviera 17:50

Lucian made no claim of good intentions, other people simply did that for him. The church was one such example, he'd been commended and applauded for the act but he'd never claimed responsibility for ever doing it for anyone else. Did he refute them? No. But who was he to correct them either? It was their fault and err in making false assumptions about him in the first place after all. He was many things a good man, certainly not, but also not the worst by far. Glanced at Polly, giving them a small nod of acknowledgement. "Kind of you to say kid," he said under his breath.

  Baba Yaga 17:42, 17:51

"Did I not? You asked us if you should fear us. Undoubtedly, you should."

The laughter erupts from the old woman again, and with another drink between the spirits, she turns to the next unfortunate soul and her grin widens ; “All the world’s a stage, but answers have never been staged. Ask us away, August.”

August Palmer 17:55

"... And all the men and women merely players." August manages an uneasy smile. The line was one of the first he learnt but he puts it down to coincidence. "I hope it won't offend to ask after my death scenes. How do they fare?" Rahat’s corpses were one thing, but the chance to speak to a real source, or at least someone versed in death—he supposed even mystic frauds have to be—was difficult to resist. Zoya could listen too, since there was talk of renewing her Desdemona. She wouldn’t thank him, of course, but such was the burden of a selfless mentor.

Baba Yaga 17:56

She looks at the man, head tilted to the side, but she does not smile as she speaks. “Overplayed. There is no romance in dying, there is no glorification in feeling your life seep away from you, like sand from a broken hourglass.”

Zoya Fox 18:01

overplayed! oh, if she could burst into gleeful laughter, she would. even august palmer isn't impervious to the criticism from the dead. she sends him a sympathetic smile instead.

August Palmer 18:00

“Yes, I suppose you’re right. Your sort of death doesn’t sell tickets, though, unfortunately. Audiences see enough of it.” There is no detectable malice in his words. August sounds almost apologetic. “Who are you?”

Baba Yaga 18:02

She looks at him and the teasing tone returns to her voice - thought it sounds sharper, higher pitched. “Why does it matter? Must you name a thing to know it? Let us say I am a spectator in you badly written play, watching it all crumble and unfold.”

August Palmer 18:02

August winces, barely perceptible. His nails have dug into the cut on his palm, hard enough to break the scab. He hadn’t even noticed. Zoya feels suddenly very close—too close. He keeps his eyes trained on Baba Yaga’s chicken foot. “What do you want from me?” The question comes out steady, and he is thankful for it.

Baba Yaga 18:04

They like that this one goes straight to the point - no dancing around and tiptoeing around the topic. She smiles, but it is a sad smile. “To feed. Death is dry and it burns our throats.”

Ish Hassan 18:05

Ish didn't quite understand the actor's thoughts or point of view. He couldn't fathom being a performer. He preferred to keep to himself, but he remained alert, listening as best he could, though still perturbed by his own haunting.

Zoya Fox 18:07

she catches him wince and thinks, see, you are not unshakeable. there's something bittersweet about the witch's words—zoya would not like to see august fall for her to rise, but if that is how it must be, then let him crumble.

August Palmer 18:11

“Ah.” There was little else to say to that. August had certainly felt the press of vulture’s wings more acutely of late, sometimes even beside him, and 'the devourer becoming the devoured' had an attractive irony to it. Still, real life didn't work like the stage. This time he was thankful for it. “Before you polish me off, is there a message for us?” He asked.

Baba Yaga 18:13

The expression turns sympathetic and the razor sharp smile softens. “Beware the coming days. Not all is how it seems. Wood rots from within.”

August Palmer 18:17

The words made August falter. Another riddle, though this one was a little clearer to him than the last. He felt a strange wave of gratitude to the ghost, which surprised him, then a nausea. He leant back in his chair. "Well, that's me done."

Baba Yaga 18:18

Murky eyes turn towards the next, the detective extraordinaire, and once agains she laughs, drinking the contents of her glass and filling it again - they are thirsty ; and it is best they did not feed off her. “Speak, child.”

Maude Lytton 18:19

Pausing a few seconds to gather her thoughts, Maude turns her head towards the woman, refusing to call her even in her thoughts as "Baba Yaga". She already had her questions in mind and so she starts with a simpler one. "Who are you then? what is your name, if you even have one or remember it" she can't help but think that a simply answer is going to be hard to get, however she must start somewhere. If it is a ghost then it was a person, so nothing more proper than asking this thing its damn name.

Baba Yaga 18:21

She looks at the woman and the expression turns to one of pain. “I am the one who lurks in the shadows. I am the one who watches over you, when all others are dead and gone. Damnatio memorie follows me. Damnatio memorie forbids me to speak of it, though I do remember it. But you may call me as you please.”

Maude Lytton 18:25

Now the ghost is speaking latim, Maude ponders. She will not name it, refuses to do it and give it power somehow, even this she knows. Maude will remember its words of guardianship, not knowing how to feel about this.

"Are you the cause of the flickering lights of my lights, then? i sincerely hope you don't desire my death too. i believe death by fire is not particularly a good way to go." she starts almost amused, her attempts of initiating a dialogue feeling silly. Why would the damn ghost mess with her lamps? A child crying for attention it was not. However she attempts to make what's nearly a joke, not letting her guard down for a second. This thing was not human anymore and it most certainly wasn't bound by things like morals, it wanted something and would try to get it from her. Perhaps she should feel lucky to not have died in a fire and be the on the other side of  the séance.

Baba Yaga 18:27

The witch blinks, and a smile returns to her lips. Ah! She is the smart one. “Yes. The power of it belongs to me.” then, a brief pause, before the spirit adds ; “You will not perish in fire.”

Lucian Riviera 18:28

The theatre goers in the room were certainly a cause for entertainment, but somehow Lucian's interest is piqued by the discomfort of the detective. These séances were proving so much more enlightening than he'd ever thought possible. The Latin he recognises but its meaning is unfamiliar though clearly this spirit has wisdom in its years. Who is it from her life he wonders, does she know?

Maude Lytton 18:31

Staring defiantly at the woman, she's not going to get honest answers, it is are capable of lying even if the woman before her is not a charlatan. It probably enjoy holding all the cards, enjoying their confusion and fear. She refuses to give it this pleasure. It's too nice, too polite, all the previous ghost didn't bother to hide their harming intentions, why would she think otherwise of this one? Either is a poor soul or it's something more malicious and smart enough to play nice. "What are your intentions? do you want anything of me?" not knowing where it stands is one of the most troubling this, so she hopes it's also greedy for something, else why would it be spending effort to talk to her?

Baba Yaga 18:32

She clicks her tongue, as if disappointed. And it thought the detective was smart. “I do not wish you death, for you are of no use to me dead. But, have you not been paying attention? All of us dead desire the same thing.”

Maude Lytton 18:36

"You desire my suffering then? Me crawling in fear? Your hunger for any feeling or sensations must have addled your ghostly brain. You'll not find me so easily scared" she snaps, knowing very well her words are half-truths, she is scared, although not of ghosts.

She makes an effort to not glance at Mr Riviera, not surprisingly, she feels irritated enough to coat her words with sharpness. She did not enjoyed being toyed with, the ones who played around with their answers thinking themselves too smart to say the truth ended having her fully attention, not because she approved of it, but because she would not let it go until her questions had answers. At this point she felt surrounded by these type of persons. And she must compromise, she needs clues, leads, any tips and this is the truth she doesn't want to admit to herself or to anyone. So she let herself be convinced my that man. "A particular man convinced me of the ludicrous idea of making inquiries about the poor women's murders. Will you answer my questions clearly or I will require a specialist to decipher your choice of words?" she stress the last words, challenging the ghost.

Lucian Riviera 18:38

There was no way of suppressing the slight grin that comes knowingly with his reference, instead he masks it by taking a sip of his drink his eyes tracking back to Baba Yaga for her response. They had little else to lose after all, and why not use the dead to their advantage if they had knowledge of pertinence?

Baba Yaga 18:38

She smiles - like a mother would smile to a child throwing a tantrum. But, the ghost chooses to latch onto the other portion of the questions. “We do not speak of another that is dead. If you want to know of it, you must ask her.”

Maude Lytton 18:45

Feeling both exhausted and angry, Maude feels small. It's not something she's prepared to and how hateful it is to allow this parasite of a ghost to feel any of her dark emotions. It doesn't answer her question, she notices it and expects it, but still, it's not the first time she desires the supernatural ability to punch this thing. Her mouth opens a little and then closes, her hesitation obvious. Asking for help with ghosts is ridiculous and a complete failure of her part, but she *must *have answers. What's dignity if even a word could help her stop the killer? She even doesn't care if the ghosts attempts to feed of her emotions, let it try, she only wants the killer caught.

"Would you know where to find the suspect that was with the last victim before her death?" she finally asks, not wanting to remember Annie Chapman, afraid of saying her name and invoking the memories of her body, the pool blood.

Baba Yaga 18:46

The woman tilts her head and nods, once. “I would.”

Lucian Riviera 18:47

There is a delightful sense of triumph that comes upon hearing that response. The warm fire of recognition and being proven right. Wonderful. Simply wonderful.

Maude Lytton 18:49

"And you will not tell me it she finishes, a bitter smile decorating her face. "Perhaps the next séance, if you're feeling more generous, parasite"

Baba Yaga 18:50

The ghost that speaks through her makes an abrupt departure and Baba Yaga laughs again, fingers curling around the glass as she takes another long sip of the drink - and it turns to the Third again, and the Final one. “It is not your turn again, you’ve spoken already!” she almost yells, then turns to the young waif. “Speak, dear.”

Polly Sheedy 18:53

Polly had fallen silent as proceedings had gone on, almost hoping to fly by unnoticed. For a moment, they dared to hope it worked. Alas, Baba Yaga seemed to have other ideas. "Um..." they sat a little straighter, hands trembling where they rested on the table, voice husky with fear. They reflected on what had been happening to them, the voices they had relied on to keep them safe. They had nothing to fear from those spirits - but there was nothing to say they were present tonight. "I suppose I would like to know ... am I in danger? From this - this killer?" They pause for a moment, and add as an afterthought. "Thank you."

Baba Yaga 18:54

She smiles, and it is a sad smile. "Yes, you are in danger. But, not only does the ripper threaten you."

Polly Sheedy 18:57

a sharp intake of air, and Polly is silent for a moment, eyes darting around the circle in a sudden state of mistrust of everybody in it. Their face pales, taking on an almost grey colour. "I've heard spirits." They confess, looking once more upon Baba Yaga, sure they know of what they speak. "I know they protect me, somehow. Warn me of the danger. I just want to know why me? Why not Annie Chapman or the others?"

Lucian Riviera 19:00

Warn her of danger? Interesting. It seems as though Polly had been holding back that little nugget of information. And if they warned her, that meant they must be able to sense the Ripper's presence... It certainly made Polly's situation far more unique than he'd initially anticipated.

Baba Yaga 18:59

The solemn look returns, but the gaze remains soft. “I pity you. You keep choosing wrongly.” It pauses, then relents ; "All living things must walk their path. We send out our warnings, but not many listen."

Polly Sheedy 19:03

The urge to clamp their hands over their ears was only intensifying with every word. It was one thing to be confronted by unintelligible whispers in their ear. To hear the words so clearly was another, even if they couldn't make sense of the warnings. Choice? That was one thing they wasn't sure had ever been in their grasp. "Does that mean the other victims heard as I have?" If that was so, they didn't want to think about what that might mean for their future - or lack of. "I am grateful. For the protection of your warnings." They wanted to make thay clear - lest the whispers stop, leaving them fumbling in the dark.

Baba Yaga 19:05

Watery eyes turn to a soft mist, silver sheen coating them. “No. They refused to listen. To see."

Lucian Riviera 19:06

It was easy to spot the distress Polly was currently experiencing, and naturally whether out of a state of genuine care or something more dubious he reached aside and gently touched the back of their hand. A silent gesture of support in trying times. He could be many things, but he wasn't completely heartless.

Polly Sheedy 19:10

they jumped a little at the unexpected touch, but upon realising it came from Lucian, let out a sigh of relief. There was a comfort in the gesture, drawn from a time long ago when he alone had been their source of protection. Tears slipped thick and fast down their cheeks, the sorrow in Baba Yaga's eyes wrapping tightly around their heart. "I'm sorry." They spoke as softly as they dared. "These warnings... do they come from people like me? Like Annie Chapman? Is that what you are?"

Baba Yaga 19:11

Head tilts to the side as she watches the waif. "No. I protect you, but others failed to listen to their own. All lay in graves they've made for themselves."

Polly Sheedy 19:13

They nod their head a little. There's a warning in their words, a plea to listen. They know that is a fate they could share - but this is their one armour, the sole thing that could save their life. "I'm grateful to you," they need them to know that, to know that they trust their guidance. "And I will listen. I promise."

Baba Yaga 19:15

Head inclines into a soft nod, and there is a softer smile on her lips than before - but, then she turns to Lucian again and the expression turns to a light growl. "Ask us then."

Lucian Riviera 19:16

His expression masked the way his mind raced, connecting tangents and notions together in an intricate web far grander than any of them in the room. A path constructed of ideals, methods of advancement. Yet when he spoke his voice is soft, sombre even for he takes no pleasure from these deaths, and his question when spoken is more an offer to the departed than any formal request, “what is it that we can do to help you?

Baba Yaga 19:18

The question has not come as a surprise - nothing surprises it. But, the expression softens once more as the witch - and the thing she speaks for - studies Lucian. “Not all of us need helping, boy.”

Lucian Riviera 19:21

The thief inclines his head in deferment to the authority in the room that is both the spirit and vessel through which it speaks. He is not so prideful that he will not defer to higher powers should they come knocking and right now they rattled the very foundation of every aspect of this reality. "Perhaps not but everyone needs something," his eyes lift once more, "do you have a message to pass on to those in the room?"

Baba Yaga 19:22

She inclines her head into a deep nod again, and watery eyes skim every single soul in attendance. “There will not be a happy end - but all things end. After one horror there will come another. Prepare yourselves, for the ending is nowhere in sight. There cannot be a happy end, not for some of you.”

Polly Sheedy 19:25

the message isn't a prospect that polly wanted to hear. At the confirmation there are more horrors to come, they whimper, hand rising to cover their mouth.

Lucian Riviera 19:26

Ominous, certainly but the message isn't surprising to Lucian. He thinks for a moment, only one further thought comes to mind. The phrasing of which is particular and deliberate. "Will you be willing to help us find the one responsible if they are known to you?" he pauses to give weight to his next addendum "to keep those at risk safe?"

Polly Sheedy 19:29

they leaned forward, hardly daring to breathe. This question seemed so important, and they felt a rush of gratitude to Lucian for asking it, for doing what he could and keeping them safe.

Baba Yaga 19:30

She pauses, head tilted to the side. "I would be willing, if help is what you desire, but others may not be of shared sentiment. But, if I help you will owe us a favour."

They laugh, both voices intertwining - hers and the ghost's - and then they are no more. Baba Yaga finishes the glass, murky eyes closing as the bony fingers curl around the chicken’s foot around her neck. A long exhale interrupts the silence that’s enveloped the room, and the witch opens her eyes to look at the attendees. “They are gone and they wish to speak no more. I hope your questions have been answered, for tonight they will yield nothing more.”

Seating plan: Muiris - Lucian - Cora - Winnie - Zoya - Maude - Ish - Rahat - Liu

Muiris Doyle 01:00

The room is pitch black, save for the soft glow of the candles, casting golden flickers of light across the room. The group has retreated upstairs, to the relative privacy of the apartments above the pub. “Wrong time of month for this, really,” Muiris complains, yanking back the curtains to allow murky moonlight to filter through. “And far too foggy of a night, but we must make do with what we have available to us.”

The chairs around the table are mismatched, 9 seats sourced from various places around the pub. “Come now. Sit, and join hands. Whatever you do, the circle cannot be broken,” he warns. His eyes roam over the group, resting on Winnie Bao. “You, girl. I will invite the spirits to commune through my body, and it is your job to cast them out. When we are ready to finish, you must say ‘I banish you to the other side. Commune with us no more,’” he claps his hands, giddy glee spreading on his face. “Shall we begin?”

Lucian Riviera 01:06

Why he'd agreed to this nonsense was admittedly beyond him, perhaps it was something as simple as plain boredom or perhaps it was genuine curiosity about the craze that had been sweeping the city. Who could say for sure? But if they were trapped here Lucian supposed there was little other way to pass the time. Glancing at the others in the group he picked a seat that gave him a relatively good vantage of all routes in and out of the room. Possibly stemming from general paranoia or the pure need to always know his fasted route out of a place should things go bad. "S'pose so.... Guess the question is," he remarked looking at the gathered collective "who's feeling brave?"

Muiris Doyle 01:08

He stretches hands out left and right, clasping with those on either side. “Rid your mind of all distraction. You must focus only on the circle,” Muiris commands, then raises his voice and his chin, speaking to the heavens, inviting the dead to join them. “Spirits, we welcome you into this space. Join us, and speak through me.”

Liu Zhou 01:08

Liu was not one to try and purposefully anger those around her, but life had somehow decided it would be best suited for her to inspire the wrath of others. Because of this quaint fact, she found herself seated at a table with those whom she would never have dared to be seen with otherwise — least alone hold hands with. She sits quietly though as the old man speaks, unsure what to make of the situation.

Cora Edevane 01:08

Cora followed the others, tired of standing around doing nothing. This, at least, could be interesting. Superstition ran amok in the city, and now with this killer on the loose, well... let’s just say Cora wanted to know who would be the first to scream.

Rahat Zaman 01:09

They do not know what prompts them to agree, but they do. Perhaps it is boredom. Everyone has been stuck in here for hours. A seance is not how Rahat would prefer to spend there evening, but what else is there to do? Could be interesting. They simply sit in silence and watch the others around them, waiting to see who does what first.

Winnie Bao 01:10

The young journalist watches with bated breath, carefully eyeing Mr. Doyle. She has her suspicions & is curious whether this will become a night of smoke & mirrors or something worth writing about.

Muiris Doyle 01:08

His face is rendered completely blank, twinkling eyes cast over with a misty hue, and suddenly, he is Muiris no more. His head turns, coming to rest upon the first - Cora. “You have questions. Speak.”

Cora Edevane 01:08

Cora sat with the others, not hurried or nervous. She eyed the old man with the same quiet curiosity she held for most things. “Alright,” she said, pausing a moment to think. “Are there any spirits in this room right now?” She never takes her eyes from the old man.

Muiris Doyle 01:12

“For now there is just one. But there will be more. I am not the only one who watches you, Mrs. Edevane.”

Cora Edevane 01:13

“Is there a spirit here who knows me?”

Muiris Doyle 01:14

“You are not an easy woman to miss. I know you, as well as you know yourself.”

Ish Hassan 01:16

He'd been watching, trying to make sense of this. The truth was, Ish was terrified. It hadn't occurred to him that his dreams and visions might be being caused by something such as this, and he wasn't entirely sure he believed in it, but it was certainly better than the alternative, wasn't it? That he could have done those awful things himself. That was somehow more unthinkable, yet more believable. "Does someone pay you for this?" he asked the stranger, skeptical.

Cora Edevane 01:16

Coras mouth tipped up at the corner. Interesting. But vague enough to be interpreted as one wanted. But alright. She’d play.

Rahat Zaman 01:16

Rahat keeps their mouth firmly shut as they sit and watch on either side of the governor and the widow. They do not know what to make of any of this at all.

Cora Edevane 01:17

“Does anyone in this room know more than they say?”

Muiris Doyle 01:17

“There are none in this room who do not keep their secrets. I do not think you are innocent of this yourself.”

Lucian Riviera 01:18

He found himself watching Muiris more than any other in the room, after all, if this was some kind of con then surely he was the artist of this construct but then again that was the art of the con. Distract with one hand while the other took its pick of choice. His eyes narrowed, it was all rather vague if he was being honest and for that he wasn't quite sure what to make of it just yet.

Liu Zhou 01:18

Liu raises her eyebrows. Of course everyone had secrets, she would be more afraid of those who didn't.

Ish Hassan 01:18

Now that was an interesting question. Ish glanced around at the faces in the room, waiting for the answer. "Bollocks," he said, lighting a cigarette. "Anyone can say this kind of crap, keep it vague enough that it can apply to almost anyone. Doesn't mean anything."

Rahat Zaman 01:19

They have to wonder if this is some kind of a scam. Or a ploy to gain others' secrets and then use it against them, eventually.

Winnie Bao 01:19

Winnie feels a strange feeling stirring within her, keeping her eyes focused on Cora rather than the old man. So far, his comments have been rather obvious. Who didn’t have secrets? All that mattered was that hers were kept.

Cora Edevane 01:20, 01:21

Another smile. “It’s no secret that we all have secrets.” Her eyes narrowed just a bit, and her next question was asked a moment later. “Have any of us here met this... killer... without knowing?”

Rahat Zaman 01:22

Oh, that is an interesting question.

Still, they say nothing.

Lucian Riviera 01:22

Couldn't help but lift his head at that question, it piqued his interest but uncertainty lingered. Then again, if the deceased could be contacted... Would there be a way to speak to the victims of the departed? A thought to contemplate another time.

Muiris Doyle 01:22

“All of you have met the killer, and none of you have. But you will.”

Rahat Zaman 01:22

A strange non-answer. Rahat remains unconvinced, but they will continue to listen.

Ish Hassan 01:23

Ish glanced around the room, searching for clue's in the other's faces. Met the killer without knowing. As of now, they'd all met him, so if the answer was no, he couldn't be the killer, right?

Winnie Bao 01:23

Now that was interesting. Winnie leans closer to hear the answer and finds herself utterly confused.

Liu Zhou 01:23

Stranger and stranger, the man appears to provide non-answers to everything.

Ish Hassan 01:24

He was losing patience in this, but doing his best to keep a calm demeanour, afraid of an outburst that might never come. "You're messing us about, mate. All of us and none of us. Load of shit. I can get more truth from a politician."

Rahat Zaman 01:26

Rahat glances at Ishmael. The man's hands are sweating, yet his words remain skeptical and more than a little defensive. They take note and look back at Muiris.

Cora Edevane 01:24

Cora gave a low, quietly amused laugh. This was definitely better than being downstairs. “ Why are you here, spirit?”

Muiris Doyle 01:25

“Outside it is cold and dark. The world does not welcome us. But here, we can roam free.” 

The look in Muiris’ eyes fade, and whatever spirit is speaking through him is gone. Then, he smiles, but far from his usual warmth. It is sinister and twisted, the smile of someone made to consume all in it’s path. And then he laughs, turning to Liu. It may be a trick of the light, but his skin had turned grey, pallid, and rotten. “And you. What answers do you seek?”

Cora Edevane 01:29

Cora watched as the mans face changed, turning to another. Cora turns her attention there, watching curiously.

Liu Zhou 01:27

Liu interjects then, a wave of bravery passing through her veins, "Are there any malevolent spirits here tonight." She holds onto Rahat's hand tighter, and resists the urge to rip her hand away from the old man.

Rahat Zaman 01:28

Rahat winces slightly at the tighter grip from Liu but says nothing.

Muiris Doyle 01:28

He breathes a shaky sigh, and his breath smells putrid, a scent that wasn't there before. "Yes."

Lucian Riviera 01:29

If there were awards to be handed out, Lucian had to admit this Muiris fellow deserved one for the new persona he slipped into. His eyes flickered to the next conversationalist but back to Muiris, shifting uncomfortably at the odor that suddenly seemed to permeate the air. A natural distaste for germs making his proximity to this strangeness suddenly rather unsettling.

Winnie Bao 01:30

Winnie studies Liu with careful eyes. Was she trying to summon some evil entity? Her thoughts are running wild. When the man’s breath wafts towards her, Winnie nearly gags and has to force herself to keep holding the hands of Cora & Zoya.

Rahat Zaman 01:31

Rahat knows this smell, but they do not like it. Where on earth had that come from? The man's breath? How? That hadn't been there before. Curious.

Liu Zhou 01:30

Her eyes widen, and her palms grow sweaty. She feels her grip on each member slowly start to losen. She swallows her nerves though and procedes to ask, "Do you believe them to have the ability to cause us any actual harm?"

Muiris Doyle 01:31

“You are always in danger, but no harm will come to you here. It will not be your haven forever, but you will not come to any harm tonight.”

Maude Lytton 01:32

Maude tightens her lips, a frown forming. She accepted being part of the evening's distraction, but it's an effort to not roll eyes or show any disrespect at the show. She glances at Zoya and Rahat, curious to see their reactions.

Liu Zhou 01:33

That does much to console Liu, the morbid thought it she might be able to join her late husband a passing query. But then again, she is reminded of the thing which follows her at night in her home, "On the subjects of these apparitions, are we all haunted by these ghostly beings . .  . or it a plague which vexes only me.”

Muiris Doyle 01:33

"We are all haunted by something. We are drawn to those who strengthen us, as you strengthen me.”

Winnie Bao 01:35

Winnie cocks a curious brow, narrowing her gaze on the widow even further. If she believed herself to be haunted, it could very likely be the ghost of her late husband. She was growing more certain that she had killed the man with every word from her mouth.

Zoya Fox 01:34

She clears her throat slightly, something between a cough and a laugh in her throat. Of course he's cryptic—all these mediums are. Do spirits have nothing better to do than talk in riddles?

Liu Zhou 01:35

There is nothing to console her more than the words of a seemingly dying man. "
Ghost, who were you, how did you pass?”

Muiris Doyle 01:35

“Alone. Always alone, with a sorrow so heavy it crushed me. You know of what I speak.”

Cora Edevane 01:35

The mind was a terrible place, full of dark, dangerous things. Fears, insecurities, guilt... and so on. Capable of being manipulated as one wanted, if the mind were susceptible enough. Cora thought herself strong-willed, but not completely incapable of being manipulated. It had happened before. A long time ago. Now, however, she was more interested in who would break first.

Rahat Zaman 01:37

They sit there with two sweating hands on either side, trying to understand the questions and the answers that have been provided. What exactly had they gotten themself into.

Liu Zhou 01:37

Liu did know of the sorrow of which the man spoke of. It haunts her even in dreams which follows her like whispers in the wind. She looks over at Winnie, and nods. Something vague to show her appreciate for the journalist which ruined her life. "This person, who has caused you sorrow, are they with us currently?"

Muiris Doyle 01:37

“Perhaps, but I walked willingly to death.”

Liu Zhou 01:39

There is an understanding in those words. Perhaps if she were a weaker person than it might have been her haunting the aging man and not it. "Do you suppose the recent illumination that science has provided us plays any part  in these apparent hauntings of common Londoners?”

Muiris Doyle 01:39

"Perhaps. There is a balance that has been upset, but it can still be restored. It is not too late for you."

Liu Zhou 01:40

She turns toward her fellow Londoner's a veil of confusion on her face.

Winnie Bao 01:41

What a load of bullshit. Winnie scoffs at both the old man & Liu. Who did this woman think she was? She could see through her ruse, surely she was playing some part in this.

Zoya Fox 01:42

Her gaze darts surreptiously towards Winnie, knowing full well how she sowed the rumors hastening Liu's reputation. If you look closely enough, you'll notice the slight frown on her lips.

Liu Zhou 01:42

She turns toward her old friend, noticing the frown which adorns her pretty face. There is hidden laughter in her eyes.

Ish Hassan 01:42

Ish had been listening, just taking it all in until it was his turn. He hadn't a free hand to smoke with, both attached to people in the room he'd rather not be holding hands with, so his cigarette burned in its ash tray, untouched since he'd had his first few puffs at the start of the gathering.

Muiris Doyle 01:39

Muiris laughs again, but it is no longer sinister. Instead the high, tinkling sound of a child rises from his lips, incongruous with the appearance of the old, weathered man. And then, the laugh gives way to a harrowing sob - one which should be intimately familiar to Lucian.

Lucian Riviera 01:43

There was no helping the sense of ill-ease that came over him at the sound of a child's laughter. How many times had he heard that settle so quickly into cries of anguish? But no such reaction displayed on his expression. Where to start with a being who’d said or done nothing but howl and scream in the depths of night like the gust of wind? But still, Lucian drew the armour of his persona in front of him, bound and protected by the confidence it imbued. “Spirit, do you have a voice? If so, share your name with us.”

Rahat Zaman 01:43

The sudden laugh, as well as the sob that had come right after it are, perhaps, the first proper things to bother Rahat considerably since this "seance" began. What is that.

Muiris Doyle 01:44

“I am speaking now.” He lisps. “But I have no name. Not anymore, now it is forgotten.”

Lucian Riviera 01:46

Another non-answer, but somehow the being taking a voice stirred the coals of Lucian’s determination and his eyes thinned a little in the direction of Muiris or whatever was inhabiting his body at this moment in time. Clearly they had passed, but the question at the forefront of his mind was how. His hands were hardly clean and he doubted he was alone in that state of being in this room. “Not all are forgotten,” it was a quiet remark, spoken under his breath but he pressed on “how was it that you came to meet your end?”

Cora Edevane 01:47

Cora looked at Lucian, who’d she known for a very long time, her own face remaining passive as ever. For the first time, her skin crawled slightly. But she wasn’t afraid. Intrigued, yes. More so as the hour moved on, but not afraid. As for the others, who knew.

Muiris Doyle 01:47

“I couldn’t find my way home, and I was so hungry. So tired. I lay my head to rest, and woke up screaming.”

Zoya Fox 01:48

She raises here eyebrows at this. It sounds too familiar a story, one that too many children on the streets know, and Lucian knows many street children. Her heart aches for the spirit.

Ish Hassan 01:49

Ish continued to listen. It was Lucian's turn. While the two had grown more at odds somewhat over the last weeks, he still cared for the man. He could tell this conversation was difficult, and the answers made something sad stir in him. If things had gone differently, he knew him and his siblings could easily have been children lost to the streets, like this poor disappeared child seemed to be. He did his best to remain firm, to not believe in this. "You alright mate?" he asked Lucian.

Lucian Riviera 01:50

Tension rippled in his frame, but beyond that the mask remained firmly in place, placid if a little disquietened by the words spoken. There was an inkling as to what the spirit referred to. It had been an accident. It wasn't his fault. Lucian had burned so many in his life, what was one more match to the tinder? He cleared his throat before speaking again “and what was it that caused you to return from the other side? What business is it you have left to finish before you move on?”

Muiris Doyle 01:50

“My life was not yet lived. The fire you caused burned so bright, but my own flickered out. Will you let it?”

Winnie Bao 01:50

Winnie's face paled at the words. She would never forget her brother's own scream, it was something that had disturbed her for many years.

Cora Edevane  01:52

This time Cora’s expression flickered ever so slightly as the man gave Lucian his next answer. Whoever this ‘spirit’ was, they had died frightened and alone, on the street. They were everything Cora tried to prevent. Tried to save. Her heart ached as well, not with sorrow, but with a crushing anger that had her gaze burning into Luciens profile. Yet still she remained silent. Now was not the Time.

Rahat Zaman 01:53

Rahat's eyes widen briefly. The 'fire', they understand, can mean many things. They wonder what it refers to in this instance and cannot help but look to Lucian, searching his face for any sign, any hints.

Maude Lytton 01:54

What right that old man had to use the death of a child as a means of entertainment? Maude clenches her fists a little.

Lucian Riviera 01:55

For the first instance through this conversation there was a brief flicker of something, recognition, understanding and perhaps even a modicum of guilt but it vanished as fast as it appeared. No, he wanted to say but that was a promise he'd never make. He couldn't save everyone he took into his watch. that simply wasn't the way of the world. The world had a balance, a duality of life and death. It simply was the way of things and not even he could counter death when it chose to strike. "You chose to return to me, why? Is there a message or warning to deliver?"

Muiris Doyle 01:55

“To see if you remember. You are not immune. None of what you have will last forever.”

Rahat Zaman 01:56

Now they have to ask themself. Are seances meant to entertain? Just to pass the time? Because nothing about this--about the deaths of children, as it appears to be--seems like very good entertainment.

Muiris Doyle 01:55

Muiris draws himself up, haughty and dignified now, even as it’s apparent that the real Muiris is still nowhere to be seen. “Speak, Zoya Fox.” He commands. “You are not usually so patient.”

Lucian Riviera 02:03

Distracted he sank a fraction, glad that for the moment the attention was off of him. His mind reeled, a thousand different thoughts clouding his typically precise focus. A quiet sense of ill-at-ease rising within his chest that felt as if it had been banded in irons and clamped tight to stop him from breathing. Of all those who might return, why this one? He felt the heat of Cora's eyes but looked at no one, instead focusing on a nondescript point on the opposite wall as he slowly returned his focus to the conversation at hand.

Zoya Fox 01:57

She can't help but laugh at this. "So you think you know me. Are you also from the theatre, then?"

Muiris Doyle 01:57

“I am with you everywhere.”

Zoya Fox 01:59

The consummate actress she is, her face betrays no emotion, no nervousness or fear, except for the way her hand tightens around Maude. "Why are you watching me?" Her voice is smooth, easy. Like asking the weather.

Muiris Doyle 01:59

“You are no wallflower, Zoya Fox. I watch you because you command that I do. Is this not what you want?”

Rahat Zaman 01:59

Rahat's eyebrows go up.

Zoya Fox 02:02

Seances are meant to be entertainment, but she has always been superstitious, with no reason to not believe spirits are real. She considers this and what comes out of Muiris' mouth. It's true, she wants people to watch her. The whole world to watch her. Now the dead watch her too. How much is enough? "Do you want something from me?"

Muiris Doyle 02:02

“I do, but I’ve yet to know if you can grant it to me.”

Ish Hassan 02:03

This interaction was different somehow, and he couldn't help but be a little taken aback at the bluntness of it. He steeled himself against reacting, awaiting his own turn. He couldn't help but continue to look across at Lucian with some concern upon his face.

Rahat Zaman 02:06

It seems, then, that everyone in this room has had some kind of brush with beings beyond the grave. Rahat would like to think they are the exception, but with every passing moment, they are starting to believe otherwise.

Zoya Fox 02:06

"Everyone always wants something. Doesn't matter if you're alive or dead. Well, do let me know when you figure it out." But if they are allegedly always with her, then they must know August, too. If she cannot get secrets out of him, then perhaps she can glean it here. Her mother's words return to her: when the dead speak, you listen. "Do you know why the man has bruises?"

Muiris Doyle 02:07

Muiris laughs, cold and clear and sharp. “I know why, but you need not concern yourself. They are not my doing. His fate is not yours.”

For a moment, the illusion fades, the real Muiris evident in the old man’s face. But, slowly, slowly, his sense of self leaves him, like rain water running down a wall. What is left is a polite, detached difference, and eyes so pale they are nearly white. “I wish to speak to the undertaker,” he says, and it is as though many voices are speaking at once.”

Rahat Zaman 02:08

The sudden shift surprises them. They had forgotten for a while then that everyone was to have a chance to speak. Now that it is their turn, their mind blanks out almost instantly.

They look at everyone in the room, at Ishmael and at Liu on either side of them, and at the old man, expectant and waiting. There is little to ask, in their opinion. Little to say. But everyone is waiting.

"Have I..." they begin, slowly, trying to formulate their question. "Have I ever been truly alone inside my workspace?" It is a throwaway question, they suppose. But it wouldn't hurt to know the answer, even if it may not necessarily be grounded on truth.

Muiris Doyle 02:09

“Perhaps once, long ago. We hardly remember such a time. Now, it is a crossing between two worlds. It is never empty.”

Rahat Zaman 02:10

Their brows furrow. What does that even mean? Once, long ago? Hardly remember such a time? And.... we? More than one, then.

"Exactly..." they start, inclining their head. "...how many of there are you?"

Muiris Doyle 02:11

“Sometimes there are just a few of us. Sometimes there are many. We do not live, but we exist in that space with you until it is time. Some do not linger, but others remain. We have been there for so long, that we know no other way. The way out is barred to us now.”

Lucian Riviera 02:13

The more the conversation shifted away from him the easier it was to pull the fragmented shards back in place. A part of him had thought this had all been in his head... But for a stranger to speak it aloud? He wasn't so sure anymore.

Winnie Bao 02:13

Earlier, Winnie would have said that they were wasting their time. Now, however, it looked like most of everyone had a face as long as Livery Street — including her own.

Rahat Zaman 02:13

Rahat narrows their eyes briefly as they take the responses in. It's... different, certainly, from the conversations the previous "ghosts" have had with the people here, and they do not know what to make of it. They've yet to process everything. The way out is barred to us now, they repeat quietly in their head. What did that mean? Is it because they've always kept the door closed? Would they have to open them?

They consider asking more questions, but the few answers they've received are enough to keep their thoughts occupied. They suppose they'll have to take a better look around the shop when they return.

Muiris Doyle 02:15

His face turns to Ish, and he growls, and snarls, as though he was a caged beast waiting to pounce. There is nothing human about his expression.

Lucian Riviera 02:16

Interesting but not unsurprising, Rahat practically lived with the dead it was no real surprise that they congregated in his place of work. Was this one of the souls Lucian had delivered or another's dealings? But his thoughts were interrupted by the snarling gnash of Muris' expression and now it was his turn to watch Ish. Something had been strange of late with his business partner... Was this it?

Winnie Bao 02:16

Surprised by the sudden change in character yet again, Winnie draws back as far as she can in her seat.

Cora Edevane 02:19

Cora’s hands tightened slightly around those she was holding, and although her eyebrows raised a bit, she remained quiet. Though the change in this man... another feeling of unease rippled over her.

Winnie Bao 02:22

Feeling a squeeze of her hand, Winnie looks to her side & returns the Madame's with a reassuring one.

Cora Edevane at 02:23

Cora glanced to her other side, looking at the younger woman for a long moment before giving her a nod of thanks.

Ish Hassan 02:19

Ish narrowed his eyes at the strange change in the person, his eyes seeking out some of the others in the room for a reaction, some guidance on what he was supposed to do. "Is he trying to tell me it's my turn?" Ish asked, dumbfounded. "I didn't know you were possessed by my dog," he scoffed. "What do you want with me?"

Muiris Doyle 02:20

“I want to see through your eyes, and hear through your ears. To taste blood through your mouth and bathe in it.”

Rahat Zaman 02:21

Well, that's something else entirely, isn't it.

Ish Hassan 02:21

His eyes widened, words catching in his throat. His heart beat harder in his chest, and he knew his hands were even more sweaty than they'd been previously.  What the hell was this, Ish wondered? His thoughts racing a mile a minute. "Who are you?"

Muiris Doyle 02:21

“Who I am is the wrong question. I will not speak my name here. Not for all to hear.”

Rahat Zaman 02:22

Ish's hands certainly are more sweaty than they'd been previously.

Ish Hassan 02:23

Well, that was helpful, Ish thought, scoffing. He did his best to hide his fears behind a brazen and skeptical attitude. "Oh, come on, that's means nothing to me," he sighed. "Why are you here, apart from to... drink blood through my mouth or whatever bollocks you said?"

Muiris Doyle 02:23

“You know what you have done. Your actions brought me here. And for that, I can know no rest.”

Lucian Riviera 02:25

For a moment he felt a fraction better about his own issue, if this was what Ish had been dealing with then Lucian felt a pang of sympathy for his friend. But what this spirit seemed to be implying caused Lucian's eyes to fix on his friend. No. It was wrong. Ish was many things but... He wouldn't do anything to bring a spirit like this forth of that much he was certain. "All rabid dogs get put down in the end," he muttered giving Muiris a stern side-eye.

Rahat Zaman 02:25

Though they do not mean for it to do so, their mind flashes back to their previous interactions with the governor, and they remember how nervous he often was around them. How fidgety and careful. What is he hiding?

Maude Lytton 02:26

Slowly Maude turns her gaze towards Ish. Mind asking one thousand questions, yet she could not take clues or become suspicious because an old man said so

Ish Hassan 02:25

What he had done? What could they be referring to? Ish had done bad things, certainly, but he didn't think he'd done anything worthy of this kind of bizarre attention. "I don't know what the bloody hell you're on about," he answered, but continued to play along. "How did you die?"

Muiris Doyle 02:25

“Who is to say I lived?”

Ish Hassan 02:26

Ish stiffened at the words. A shiver ran down his spine, his body not knowing what to do with itself. "Are we almost done so I can have a pint and smoke my cigarette? This is... a lot." What kind of person died and hadn't lived? It didn't make any sense.

Muiris Doyle 02:26

Another snarl escapes his lips, and then he is animal no more. “Well, Miss Lytton,” suddenly all business, pleasant smile graces his face. “We have much to discuss, do we not?”

Lucian Riviera 02:27

"All things that die lived once upon a time." But as the words were spoken it seemed the spirit was gone. Moved on to the other most interesting figure in the room.

Winnie Bao 02:28

How was he doing this? Winnie would need to remind herself to jot the night's events in her notebook once they were finished.

Maude Lytton 02:29

Looking at the old man, Maude thinks the most obvious question she could ask. Her tone slipping to the mixed anger and amusement she feels, Maude doesn't believe in such things and yet she must ask all sorts of questions.

*"I don't mean to disrespect , but very well. Is the killer between us today? if yes, then show me"

Muiris Doyle 02:29

Muiris laughs. “Always cutting to the heart of things. You know as well as I that the journey is half of the fun. There are some here with blood on their hands, but none I would call a killer.”

Maude Lytton 02:31

She stops then, feeling the cold crawling up her spine. What a fool she was to be scared of the antics of an old man. She has not felt this scared in so many years, since she was a child alone in that boarding school. The tree's branches scratching the windows and demanding she let whatever was outside to enter. Refusing to run away like a coward, she stares into the old man's eyes. "Are you even real? and not stories for readers and children alike" Maude then glances at Zoya and tries to not mind Zoya's hand touching hers. The awful feeling closing her throat and the anger starting to build is such a common feeling that Maude reacts the only way she can. "You can clutch my hand if you're feeling scared, dear" she leans to whisper in Zoya's ear, her own voice sweet and sharp.

Lucian Riviera 02:31

He watched as Maude leaned in to Zoya, a gesture too intimate in this setting that it was rather an insight in itself. Oh now that was interesting. He'd have to question his dear little songbird on that later.

Rahat Zaman 02:31

Rahat watches, and takes note. Many things are coming to light tonight.

Muiris Doyle 02:31

“I don’t hold much stock in stories. I am real. I am here. Do you not see me when the lights go out?”

Zoya Fox 2:33

She scoffs and smiles just as sharp, just as sweet. "Are you sure you won't be?" she says, low enough for only Maude to hear. "Our fearless detective, even in the face of death." And then her attention is directed back at Muiris, expression schooled into droll neutrality.

Ish Hassan 02:34

Ish observed the Detective. It seemed with all this going on, she'd have a lot more to worry about than the things he and Lucian were hiding in the cellar. At his feet, he felt Anubis stirring and growling, but he let out a soft shh to quiet the beast.

Maude Lytton 02:37 

Frowning, she wonders how the old man knew about the problem with the lights. How on earth the old man would knew about so many things, at the end and not clearly thinking straight, she makes a little trap to see if it was all a scam. She with a sharp intake of anger and discomfort, doesn't look at Zoya when the words leave her lips. If before she had such controlled decorum with reactions and emotions in check. Maude lets the anger and pettiness speak for themselves as she almost spats the words:

"Does this person ever regrets abandoning that cat?"

Muiris Doyle 02:37

“Abandoning the cat, or abandoning you?” He fires back, wry smile twisting at his face. “Perhaps they do, but not in the same way that you would. Regret is a funny thing.”

Maude Lytton 02:38

She doesn't wince, she doesn't run, Maude doesn't move. Her only reaction being the paleness taking over her face. Her limbs suddenly growing cold with fear

 Lucian Riviera 02:41

His head cocked at the non-reaction from the detective, telling in and of itself. So there were abandonment issues lurking behind that pristine facade? Interesting. Perhaps the proximity wasn't such a terrible notion this evening.

Muiris Doyle 02:37 

Booming voice gives way to silence, and the man withdraws into himself, tiny and wizened and much less there, as though trying to disappear into his own skin. Smaller and paler, but anger, so much anger, fills the room until it is fit to burst. “Winnie Bao,” he whispers. “Let me speak to Winnie Bao.”

Winnie Bao 02:39 

Winnie inhales & continues to avoid any eye contact with the old man. She has questions, yes, but had remained quiet due to uncertainty & an unwillingness to draw attention to herself. She had only allowed her reactions towards Liu out of journalist instincts. Once she manages to stop her hands from shaking, she glances up at Mr. Doyle. She can feel the anger. “You seem to know much, spirit. What year do you come from?” She asks, expecting another non-answer or something vague enough that she could not dispute it.

Muiris Doyle 02:40

“Not so long ago, for you. Time moves differently where I dwell.”

Winnie Bao 02:41

As expected, she isn't given a specific answer. The tragic events of her past feel like they were not so long ago, could it be one of her parents then? But why would they hold so much hostility? There was only one way to be certain. “I see. How did you die?”

Muiris Doyle 02:42

“Ever the journalist. Death came to me unbidden, unwanted, painfully. It still hurts now, and the pain will never stop. Is that what you wish to hear?”

Rahat Zaman 02:42

The plot thickens with every person and every new question. Rahat does not yet know what to make of everything, having been distracted by the responses they had received for their own queries. Exactly what is Mr Doyle up to? Are there ulterior motives to this? Is this simply being done to scare? To air out everyone's dirty laundry?

Winnie Bao 02:44

She freezes, color draining from her face once more. "You can't be..." Winnie begins and catches herself before finishing the thought. He could easily be lying, perhaps a master of reading ones emotions. "Where are you from?" She needs to know, needs the certainty.

Muiris Doyle 02:44

“I lived in another place, another city, but tonight I came here with you. I had already crossed the veil before the curtain was drawn back.”

Winnie Bao 02:46

"So you aren't a victim of the ripper then?" She had written about a few of the ladies who fell victim, if this was real then it could simply be one of them who had grown attached to her. Yes, that made sense. That was just fine.

Muiris Doyle 02:46

“Not I, no. But I can bring them here, if that is your wish. Next time, they will wait for you."

Lucian Riviera 02:48

Now that caught his attention, oh yes, perhaps that was a better use of this time... If this could draw information for them to use now wouldn't that be a delicious twist of the proverbial knife. A thread unexplored. There was no helping the way his spine straightened as his curiosity was piqued.

Ish Hassan 02:47

At those words, Ish let out an audible gasp. His hard exterior broke slightly at the words, the shock of their utterance breaking past his skeptical armour. "That's not funny."

Maude Lytton 02:49

"Things haven't been funny in a long time, sir " she says this to Mr Hassan, a slight sharpness coating her words, although she is too much distracted by the words spoken before her.

Ish Hassan 02:50

Ish looked back at the detective, giving a curt nod. "You're quite right. But he's taking the piss now."

Rahat Zaman 02:49

Rahat has done their best to take everything in stride, but that last suggestion is enough to have them shaking their head almost right away, just as everyone's reactions come as well.

Lucian Riviera 02:49, 02:51

Everyone's vehemence to the idea made Lucian frown. Why wouldn't they want to use this? If it truly was a connection to the other side what better way to get answers than those present at the scene of the crime itself?

"I don't know, why wouldn't you want to speak to the victims if they had answers to give? Why look a gift horse in the mouth if it's there to speak?" this was posed towards the detective.

Cora Edevane 02:51

The air was practically humming with emotion as Cora watched the spirit make the rounds of everyone at the table. She said nothing the entire time, merely watched and tried her best not to react, though a few times she couldn’t help it.

Rahat Zaman 02:51

It seems, skeptical though everyone had been when this first began, there is now a small semblance of uneasy belief to be felt in the room. Or at least it had appeared so in that moment.

Winnie Bao 02:48

"No ! ...no," Winnie called out rather suddenly. "That won't be necessary..." Why did she feel so cold? The chill was overwhelming and traveled through her bones. Her heart was about to come tearing out of her chest. "Can...can you manipulate something in the room?"

Muiris Doyle 02:51

He laughs, and does not stop. The windows begin to rattle in their frames, so violently they threaten to crack. The very table they sit at shakes with a similar fervour, and all the candles are extinguished at once. Darkness surrounds them, and then the laughing stops, and there is only silence.

Winnie Bao 02:52

Unbeknownst to her, a tear had slipped its way down her cheek. Winnie felt like she had opened the flood gates & was absolutely terrified.

Maude Lytton 02:54

Maude finally gets up from the chair, face showing every trace of her anger. She doesn't let the hands she holds go, still afraid of something she does not understands, but she speaks in a loud voice "That's enough"

Rahat Zaman 02:54

All efforts to try and explain the doubts away with logical fly out the window as soon as it begins. Mr Doyle laughs, and the windows rattle, and the table shakes--and in spite of themself, Rahat holds tightly on to Liu and Ish beside them. They lean back a little, wanting to be as far away as they can without breaking the circle--and then it ends.

Ish Hassan 02:55

Ish felt cold sweat on his forehead, his body chilled and burning at the same time, heart beating its way through his rib cage. He took a breath, then another, and another, deliberate attempts to calm himself. "What the hell was that?"

Rahat Zaman 02:55

Everyone appears visibly shaken, and Rahat looks about the room, checking to see that everyone has remained unharmed.

Lucian Riviera 02:55

The tension in the room was palpable and as they were plunged into darkness Lucian released a slow controlled breath. His mind was focused and intent on a single matter, newly renewed vigor overriding the earlier uncertainty clawing in his chest. He'd have to look into Mr Doyle some more, the man knew too much by half if he had faked this event but if he hadn't... Oh the opportunities it presented were enticing to say the least.

Cora Edevane 02:56

When the darkness fell, Cora closed her eyes. Not out of fear, but to make sure she hadn’t dreamt the whole encounter. When the detectives voice called out, sharp and authoritative, she knew it was real. It was real. And like a stone tossed onto still water, Cora had a feeling the echoes would ripple outward far beyond tonight. Far beyond anything they could imagine.

Muiris Doyle 02:56

It is time for Winnie to speak the words, to banish the spirits to another realm where they belong.

Winnie Bao 02:58

“I banish you to the other side. Commune with us no more," When she’s said the words and the circle finally ends, Winnie breaks away from the group with a sob & hurries herself to a quiet area of the pub.

Muiris Doyle 02:58

The old man raises his head, the bags under his eyes more pronounced, a weariness that wasn’t there before etched into the lines on his face. “The circle may be broken,” he croaks. “And now, I must rest.”