Plotlogs
The Golden Observer Sr Ritsuka 241102
In Haven City, amidst supernatural intrigue and urban shadows, Illyana receives a cryptic letter, pushing her to seek assistance from Emmanuel and Ash to decrypt its contents. The letter addresses the Golden Shadow, hinting at a delicate operation involving the retrieval of an artifact intended for Illyana Howlett, a descendant of both angel and demon. With the artifact's dangerous allure, the trio sets out to uncover the mystery behind the enigmatic message and the forces interested in Illyana.
Illyana, lacking complete trust in her companions due to recent tumultuous events, nonetheless recognizes their expertise in technology and the arcane. As they deliberate their next steps, clues suggest involvement from Biolabs Pharmaceuticals and a figure known as the Golden Observer, entwining their fates further with the secrecy of Haven.
The triad decides to confront Professor Whitemill at White Oak University, suspecting his knowledge about the seraphic blade linked to Illyana, which compels its wielder towards violence. Upon interrogation, Whitemill reveals his liaisons with a benefactor from the Aurelia Genesis Laboratory , implicating them in sinister experiments on supernatural beings and suggesting ties with the Templar organization, known for their supremacist views against supernaturals.
Despite Whitemill's veiled threats and insinuations, he reluctantly provides a lead to the AGL laboratory. The trio leaves, but not before Illyana subtly employs her powers to trap Whitemill in his office, signaling a small yet defiant victory against the creeping dread shadowing Haven.
As they exit, the story hints at unseen forces monitoring their movements, perhaps allies or adversaries in disguise. The encounter leaves Illyana, Emmanuel, and Ash with more questions than answers, but with a firmer resolve to unravel the sprawling conspiracy threading through Haven's heart. As they step into the murky future, their alliance, tempered by revelations and half-truths, stands as a beacon against the encroaching darkness, promising further confrontations in their quest for truth.
(The Golden Observer(SRRitsuka):SRRitsuka)
[Thu Oct 31 2024]
On Haven
Haven City is a shadowed city nestled at the coast near Boston, Massachusetts. Supernatural beings thrive and struggle under the endless conflict between bustling urban life. To the northwest lies White Oak University, an institution where supernatural study to control their abilities and also features a clinic for not so great experimentation on live people. But the university tends to draw both humans and supernaturals alike. The city is surrounded by endless forests that cover god knows what in its perpetual mist, and a lighthouse still peers and shines over it, guiding people back to a more safe harbor to the city.
It is afternoon, about 66F(18C) degrees,
Spookey hour in Haven! It is perhaps the perfect time to begin a little lookup inot the events that Illyana had to see and come through, or maybe it is just circumstantial. Part of it may have certainly been a message that Illyana received not long ago. The letter she had found, when it was ran to its conclusion, turns out, the Japanese on it was encrypted and beyond the question on who the damn encrypts with kanji, or how genius or stupid that might have been, it's been encrypted, and then translated. Or first encrypted and then translated. It doesn't matter by far.
Upon retrieving the information, Illyana forwards it to those whom it will most certainly concern; Emmanuel and someone. There's no complete trust there, how could there be? Much has happened in the past couple of weeks, though Illyana knows she's not smart enough to handle this without experts, and Emmanuel is most certainly that with technology, and likewise, someone is for the arcane.
Upon retrieving the information, Illyana forwards it to those whom it will most certainly concern; Emmanuel and Ash. There's no complete trust there, how could there be? Much has happened in the past couple of weeks, though Illyana knows she's not smart enough to handle this without experts, and Emmanuel is most certainly that with technology, and likewise, Ash is for the arcane. So when that meeting eventually takes place, and the information is shared, the problem then becomes; How to get to the bottom of the mystery?
There is a bleep on Emmanuel's and Ash's phone, of course, following Illyana forwarding the file to both of them. The file itself is a simple text file that contains the following:
For the eyes of the Golden Shadow only,
As you carry out the retrieval of the specified object, remember the delicate balance we maintain with our external agents. Ensure no trace of the acquisition process leads back to our benefactor, as your careful touch is required to protect all invested parties.
Once in possession of the artifact, hold on to it and right outside Haven's perimeter and the forest and await further instructions. The 'item may prove useful during extraction; the clients intention is that its energy and influence be contained as instructed. Under no circumstances allow any outsiders to retrieve or observe the items containment process.
After the artifact is secured, there will be no further need to concern yourself with its fate. Our associates at our primary facility will handle the rest. You are to avoid direct contact with the personnel from our subsidised facility at Biolabs Pharmaceuticalsengage only through intermediaries if necessary. Biolabs' internal operations are unrelated and obscured from prying eyes. I am sure its owner may be of keen interest to you in the medical field, perhaps a new future hire to you? Mutual interest, review her file at your own disclosure. Internal file can be provided to you.
For our interest in observation, the artifact is intended to fall into the hand of a singular person: Illyana Howlett. A descendant of both angel and demon, relies on both of her lineages. Provide observation results from in combat use from our agent and for the target. Exercise utmost caution in all direct and indirect interactions.
We trust you will complete your role discreetly and efficiently, as expected.
Your work ensures the highest gains and lasting favor with the Observer. Let this serve as a reminder that our partnership rests on mutual silence and absolute diligence.
Signed,
Observer at AGL
Ash looks over Emmanuel when he arrives on the scene, stiffening a little... but not overly so. They murmur, "You've recovered well, it seems," before turning to Illyana. "Sounds like we should start with Biolabs and Ms. Shimomi. If she's not the owner, she's at least involved. I'm on good terms with her, so I could reach out... but, she's stubborn. She's unlikely to be of help due to her loyalty." Scrolling through the text, they also suggest, "If we can figure out who AGL is in this letter... that's another trail to follow."
Emmanuel's eyes are many things. Amber. Pretty. Ooey. Gooey. Squinty. French. But, of the many things they are, they certainly /aren't/ belonging to the Golden Shadow. One can imagine the quiet amusement of their owner then as they read over the received message, and note that their eyes are in fact invalid for this communique. Though that amusement does not last particularly long as details are revealed. The fact that these cultists, and their benefactors were not only aware of the taint of Illyana's blood, but had also sought her out specifically is a worrying affair, at the least.
Just as Illyana had volunteered to assist Emmanuel and his Disruptive allies in stealing away an artifact from Vetr Corp, so too does the Templar then offer his own modest help in dealing with Illyana's strange weapon of sorts. Halloween seems as apt a time as any to hunt through the mist and shadow that haunts the outer limits of Haven, and thus here they are, standing around with a mild sort of frown, and body armour, while a bunch of dorks prance about the town in costumes, preparing to get liquored up, and treat some tricks.
Speaking of dorks.. "Ash." Emmanuel greets the costumed enby with their name, and little more, canting his gaze over toward Illyana then, "Are you having anything else to go on?"
"Ritsuka is lovely." Illyana tells Ash. "Maybe be less weird and she might be more likely to talk with you, but yes. Her loyalties will preclude her from all that much." There's no venom there, but there's most certainly some small annoyance, even if it's a true statement that Illyana doesn't want to hear. It is most curious then when Illyana nods to Emmanuel with less frustration, flashing a photo between Ash and Emmanuel with the picture of the symbol upon the missive; The triangle with the caduceus within it. "That's all I got aside from observations with the sword I uh..." and here's some mental gymnastics to validate larsony from a fully fledged and governmentally and supernaturally approved instilation. "Rescued." the bohemian nods, as if this were the only possible answer. "The blade, named Seraphim seems to be a demon killer and a bane in its own right. It speaks to you if you've got angel blood and compells you towards violence. Though it didn't help the White Oak security guard who nicked it and then got deaded by it." (Likely some creative truth) "Or the two Golden Shadow members I killed to retrieve it. There was no paperwork in the tent, and there's no evidence on account of me having burned everything about that encounter to ash." Nodding with satisfaction, having shared the disjointed information, Illyana has likely obliterated a good point from which to begin, but being no expert by any means, and having only the information translated into a text document, she looks pretty smug with having that much to hand.
Ash tilts their head at Illyana, their jewels clinking at her comment. "What are you talking about? We talk just fine? I meant her loyalties - that's where she's stubborn" Their voice is shows their confusion as Yana both gets defensive without an attack, as well as launching what seems to be an offensive comment without, from Ash's perspective, cause. "I was suggesting that I could talk to her *because* we talk together well."
Business comes in then, though. "The sword that they specifically put there for you, specifically, to rescue... the teacher who sent you on that mission is likely involved, another lead to start with. Do you remember which professor it was?" They lean towards Illyana for this, typing a few notes on their phone.
There is a cold breeze that sways over the street, taking along a few strands of hair for those with longer hair. The symbol is not on any particular building within Haven, as far as shops and the industrial district go. Biolab Pharmaceuticals does have its own: a caduceus with wings and the logo above, it is not outright public in the shop, but more humbly shown on staff nameplates and besides the locked door with the fingerprint and retinal scanner lock.
Ugh. What a drag. Ash just made a good point and now Emmanuel has to deal with that. Is there anything more annoying than when someone you don't like makes a decent point? Geez. Well, with that okayish point raised Emmanuel notes, "Following up on the professor might non be a bad idea. If that weapon was planted then it is likely that the person who was pointing you toward it might be too. And we are knowing just how easy it is for people to get a contract at the White Oaks too, hm?" The Frenchman points out, and clucks his tongue gently, hooking his hands into his pockets as he speaks, and glancing this way and that up the street, "This is being your party, Yana, Ash and I are just here to be dancing to your tune. Do we explore the pharmacy, or the Institute, mon amie?"
"The professor never gave a name and I was too pissed off to ask; Nikolai told me I was being ridden for entertainment by Dominus shortly before, so I decided to get it done. Then I got pissed off by being made to kill the crazy bitch with the psychotic sword that I needed to keep out of everyone's grasp, so I sto-- Rescued it." Illyana still seems on edge, but that's less likely targeted at Ash and likely more at Haven in general- That or pent up violence for too long. She looks as though she's eaten, but the inability to truly fight under Gonthorian's ploy is vexing for anyone, let alone someone who wouldrather feed on rage through combat. "That's... Actually a good point." the bohemian allows, frowning at Ash. "But in my defense, most of this needed translating and I only got it back today..." Trailing off, she looks between Emmanuel and Ash as she shares, "The chemist's logo is a caduceus with wings. So it might be related. But I don't want to break in and assault Ritsuka over what could only be a coincidence. But I have no authority in White Oak either." And of course this is said with the pathological pragmatism of someone who has decided something on the thin pivit point of 'I like you. I don't give two shits about you.' "So I guess the professor is who we track down. But I'd rather no violence if we can help it." - There's going to be violence. There's always violence, but Illyana would still like to mitigate it. It's only right. So reaching for her phone again, she pointedly notes in what she recalls of said professor; Build, hair color, eye color, his garments and briefcase, his occupation and waits for a responce from the researchers that she's conscripted for the task in full 'You work for me now- And by the way, you cant stop me, so fucking do it.' mode. Heroic indeed how she's stepping on people to get what she needs- Konstantin must be so proud. As she types, Illyana tells Emmanuel (who works for White Oak via contract) and Ash (who is a student there and has delivered lectures), "Brown hair, pale skin, dark eyes, suspiciously long rain coat, a briefcase that is beaten but well made. Maybe you know this guy so we can find his address and visit?"
Ash pulls up the staff roster on their phone, drawling, "If he *actually* works there, he should be on the staff roster. From there, we can get his name and investigate his address from there. However, it's very possible that he's not a professor... it's an equal chance, with White Oak being... what it is." There's a bit of gripe there, at the end, but they move off.
"And yeah... I don't want to assault anyone. The fun is in the finding, so that's what I'm better at focusing on. That said, a caduceus is a *very* global symbol, it's on anything medical. I wouldn't assume a tie to the symbol just by that merit, though the place is still suspicious. I've thought it over, and I don't think we can do much with the symbol than watch out for it. Unless Emmanuel has a clue?" They tilt their head to him, for his imput.
There's something about the mention of the rain coat that affords Emmanuel some mild pause, and there's a question that comes after it, "A yellow raincoat?" He queries of Illyana with a squint, then falling silent to digest the rest of the information she'd given for the time being. On the subject of breaking in, Emmanuel raises a brow, "..Breaking and entering does non mean assaulting people, hm? It usually means just- you are knowing, being sneaky-beaky." There's another beat before he adds, "Have we tried actually asking Ritsuka?"
Looking to Emmanuel for his clue and or insight (He's french. They're nearly as good as italians fir ideas), Illyana receives a notification, reading to Ash and Emmanuel, "Doctor Whitemill; Professor of bio and genetics." There's a moment and Illyana considers not saying anything- Then of course does; How could she not. "Sounds like a pedo. Anyway, we can visit him at White Oak in his office where I am very literally not allowed to physically beat his head in. But Emmy is here so we could just break in if he's not home.How do we feel about that play?"
"I asked Ritsuka." Illyana shrugs. "She says she could likely find out but was reluctant because she'd have to withhold any information I actually wanted if it was her employer- And no. It was brown." the bohemian responds to the coat color question from Emmanuel. "I'm also not very subtle. So let's hope I don't need to be supernatural, or that's a huge fucking fire on the hill tops."
Ash eyes Illyana for her aggressiveness - not that it's easy to see, given their veil. Instead, they simply adjust, crossing their arms over their chest. To Emmanuel, they shake their head, drawling, "Not yet - this is us discussing doing so." He was here for this, of course. As Ash brought up the pros and cons of talking to Ritsuka, and as Yana explained that she only just got this information. Nonetheless, it seems the call is to follow the professor.
"In the meantime, I'll have his address investigated, in case he's out of office." They slide to a different app on their phone, tapping a few times, before using their tactile keyboard to type at quite some speed. After a quick moment of that, they slide the keyboard in with a snap, going, alright. "You might want to let me and or Emmanuel do that, if he's home... for his own safety." There's another hint of concern there, before they ask, "Do you have Seraphim on you now?"
Ash finds that Yana mentions speaking to Ritsuka, and Ash nods. "Mmm, sounds about right. Sounds like her. She'll likely be happy to help if it's not directly related to her employers."
There's a lot of discussion going on, that's for certain. Emmanuel glances between Illyana and Ash as they make their points, before clucking his tongue gently, "The house then, oui?" He suggests, more keen to get moving than anything else.
"Hell no. I hid it." Illyana nods to Ash. "I'm not an idiot." she adds, in tones that hint of 'Oh hey, that was a good idea.' "I'm very frustrated today." the bohemian mentions to Ash all too casually, "The Sam thing the other day and now Bill seems to have feeding sickness. And somehow, it's bothering me more than it should." Smalltalk continuing, she shoots Ash a greatful smile; Something far less hostile. "Yeah for safety." she agrees as the group make their way to White Oak and Whitemill's office specifically.""
The way through to White Oak is uneventful. The city is at it usual busy and no one seems to really pay the trio any attention and even White Oak itself pays little attention. Though there is one student that does offer a faint greeting to Emmanuel, recognizing him from a lesson he had previously given. It is a few corridors down this or that way before it gets to plate besides a door that has the right room - and be it with knocking or without, the party finds itself in the professor's room.
Delicate tunes of a piano plays from an old vinyl player from one corner, with the brown haired man sitting behind an old looking desk. He is looking over some papers, works with a red pencil and makes markings on the page in front of him. Bookshelves with largely medical tomes line the walls, some of which look to be old with ones far newer mixed between. Some with a title that implies to be about psychology also look through once in a while between the other books.
The man himself sets pen down and his gaze turns and directs to the group that enters and focuses on Emmanuel a moment before swaying to Ash and then back to Illyana. "Please, have a seat you three." He gestures to the chair on the other side of the desk. "How can I be helping you today? Anything with classes? Or more general questions for the university?" Behind him, a clock ticks and ticks and ticks, the center of its clockwork, where the arrows slowly circle is a very black spot.
Ash follows along in their flowing gown and cape-like train, fluttering behind them. As they carry on the smalltalk - likely making them less suspicious than marching in with determination, like they have a mission to accomplish. "What did Sam do the other day? And I hope that it's not his sister... he says that she's better now, but...." They trail off as they near their destination.
It's here that Ash realizes... their gown, as fabulous as it is... is not made for sitting on such little chairs. They stare at one for the moment before drawling, "I'll stand, thank you." In the meantime, they try to not be too awkward as they take note over several specific things that come to mind.
Noting that clock center, Illyana is suspicious; This is haven. It's likely a camera. Those are everywhere. But thankfully, Emmanuel is an expert with those. Illyana on the other hand looks to Ash, doesn't take a seat, and tells the professor; "No. It's not about classes." - No small talk then. That's a bad sign for those who know Illyana. "It's about the sword you sent me for and accidentally broke." she lies, smoothly, though she waits for Ash and Emmanuel to add their imput before she flips her shit and ruins the diplomatic nature of the meeting with a healthy amount of psychic or hypnotic violence.
Emmanuel just barely manages to fend off the desire to step on the train of Ash's gown a they wander into the Institute, extending a few polite nods and 'how do you do's' to various students until they find themselves in the office of the professor, and takes a seat for himself. It seems like he is the only one who does so. To be fair, he is far older, and recovering from a near-death experience. The Frenchman gestures toward Illyana at her words, throwing his support behind them.
Ash slowly summons a single will o' wisp - above, behind the professor's head, right to where the center of the clock is. They brighten it just a bit, as if turning a knob for room lighting - just enough to cause a glare if there is truly a camera within. But, ideally, not enough to catch the man's attention - after all, the change is slow, and the room is *presumably* well lit at this time of day.
"I find it highly doubtful the artifact would break, it is from the Celestial Forged, but I have not had the pleasure of taking a look at the remaining shards, miss Howlett," Professor Whitemill replies, placing his hands on the desk in front of him. His gaze goes from Illyana to Emmanuel. "The note I saw said that there were no shards found at the campsite, but how can I help you with it today? I presume the weapon is to remain lost for the time."
Illyana certainly didn't think that far ahead, and now it's slowly beginning to bite her in the ass. Never the less, she answers with the roll of a shoulder in a shrug. "It's broken." she responds. "I don't know what else to tell you." (She's not hiding anything really. It is broken coloquially; A sword that is a bane to demons and empowers the wielder. It's just not the kind of broken implied.) "You know about it. That's wonderful. Do you know what the connection is between it and me specifically, and why the Golden Shadow wanted me specifically; Someone with mixed blood less specifically to hold it?" Illyana may have forgotten to share that part. But she's sharing it with Ash and Emmanuel now. That's what matters, of course. "And more directly, why did you," and it's here that Illyana points a finger at Doctor Whitemill, "Ask me to go?" There's no direct allegation, but it's most certainly implied.
Ash tilts their head, checked out for a moment, before they muse, "I heard a story about the Celestial Forges in a book about the War in Heaven, where demons and angels waged war after Satan rebelled against God. But... that didn't actually happen in real life. Demons were made by humans and trapped in Sirinia, and Angels were servants more than soldiers. Can you tell me about what the actual Celestial Forge is?"
They look to Doctor Whitemill with curiosity. They already knew that the Golden Shadow wanted Yana specifically to hold it due to her specific heritage - the letter said as much, if not Yana in previous conversations. They offer it as an alternative - in case the man felt uninclined to answer Illyana's questions.
With this many questions already being asked of the professor, Emmanuel elects to remain silent, and waits for the answers that are, no doubt, coming.
There is a smile that forms on the professor's lips as his gaze turns back to Illyana and she focuses on her. There is something unspoken - at first - and then he does tell "Miss Howlett, it is quite simple. A benefactor let us know about the artifact, and specifically requested you personally to handle it during testing." The music from the vinyl player draws into an even, darker tone with the tunes of the piano. "In hindsight, it seems obvious now that more was facilitated through the Golden Shadow. The absence of the shards makes me consider that it has been recovered by the benefactor and if you are asking for my advise, it would be better to work for them, than against this mutual benefactor. They had proven to be a very interested participant."
The professor looks to Ash "They used them and made weapons to specifically fight demons and to destroy their artifacts. The precise details to the procedure are largely lost, and I do not know them. It is perhaps not prevalent to the conversation unless you are presuming the benefactor has access to one?" The man rises to his feet, turns around and makes to walk closer to one of the bookshelves. "I think not."
He moves to pull one of the books, but not all the way out and turns back to the trio. "The Golden Shadow is still active around Haven, they do have a branch in the city. But what exactly are you looking for?"
Pouncing on the question now it's directly asked; Illyana tells the good doctor, "The name of the benefactor to begin with. The identity of the initials listed at the bottom of this document." And here, the bohemian flips her phone, turns it to Doctor Whitemill and enlarges them so there's no missing it. "The identity of the triangle and caduceus logo so we can plan for the next leg in this. And I'd /be very thankful if you'd give us these answers/." There is weight to this last aspect of her question; A subtle resonance in tone and tambra as Illyana applies psychicly enhanced persuasion to get the answers she wants- Assuming of course that it's successful.
Ash eyes the man as he only partially pulls out the book, suspicion flaring in their paranoia.
The professor takes the few steps back to the desk and looks over what Illyana shows to him. "I very much recommend you let it go, miss Howlett. They are the Golden Observer. The one to spread the wealth to us less fortunate far from the abilities that your own can accomplish. The caduceus in the triangle is their symbol, of course." A pause, removing himself a short distance again, before looking and focused on Emmanuel again. And he smiles again. "I hear they like to experiment on Supernaturals. Drive them through their trials and imprison them in their lower blocks. There is some rumors about one or two imprisoned demigods on the lowest levels, experiments done to create youth potion or two. Make a new product to sell to a customer, as some of your former affiliation would have been happy to try at, Miss Howlett."
His gaze lingers on Emmanuel. "But this is nothing new to some of the people here, is it? I'm quite surprised you have not asked your friend here about it. Has he not told you about any of it and let you off on a goose chase? I can tell you he is quite familiar with the operation at the AGL laboratory."
There's a slight rise of Emmanuel's brow at that later accusation, and then he turns a little in his chair to ensure there isn't someone standing behind him. He glances back to the Professor, and then chuffs quietly, "Ah, she is being like a dog with a bone, mon ami, I doubt she will be letting it go." He starts up to his feet then, with the groan of a far older man. "For someone who is speaking so many words, you are saying so little. This is being the problem with higher education, hm?" He laments, half-seriously, then canting his gaze aside to Illyana, "This tree is non worth being barked up. I think it is best we use all my many, many apparent connections to visit the lab."
Ash moves closer to the man, sidling around the side of the desk, while singing in a jazzy little hum, "Hey, be kind, be patient, Be hard to please, It seems contradicting, but do it honestly! Just give a little, give a little Give a little, give a little... Until you disintegrate, hey."
They lean on the desk with a gloved hand, moving around the side as they seem to be openly hostile to the man's movement, despite the cheery tune. "Whose symbol? Why don't you at least *give her another lead to this Golden Observer*, and we can call it a day, yes? Surely that's not too much to ask?"
"You clearly want to say more, so please, carry on the villain monologue. Don't let us stop you." Moving back to lean against a wall, Illyana's arms cross, though her eyes, behind her sunglasses narrow. She's all too ready to believe Temple involvement, but isn't so easily convinced to turn on one another as all that... Even if she'd like to hurt someone right now, and there's no Father Jack to direct her down a better path. So rather than producing fire and burning something like she might, she files away the name; 'Golden Observer' for later and proves her eraticness by waiting for more context as Ash does what they do.
"You are looking for the Aurelia Gensesis Laboratory. If you look for it, I'm sure you will find it seeing as the Templar are happy to be involved with the facility," The professor still smiles, and then sits down back onto his chair, picking up his pen again to start noting something down on the papers in front of him. "The Golden Observer's name is not known to me. Now if there is nothing else, I think we should finish this here and get back to our corresponding work?"
"You do lead the Temple." Illyana mentions to Emmanuel as though they were conversing over coffee, all casual-like. "It's very easy to believe that your people, if not you directly are experimenting on demigods for youth potions. YOu've done worse, and will likely continue to do far far more than that." Illyana is very aware with who she's working with. One doesn't jump into bed with the devil without fire retardent condoms. "The problem though," she continues, in somewhat o a monologue of her own, sharing the thought with Ash and Emmanuel as though Whitemill wern't there, "Is how very obvious the simple answer is; Of course the supremacists would use the supernaturals as chattle to benefit humanity."
"I do non think the Temple gives much of a damn about cosmetics." Emmanuel notes in simple response, and then there's an arch of the brow at the label of 'supremacist' being given to the anti-supernatural group. He commits the name of the laboratory to mind, and then starts to head back over toward the door then, apparently content with the leads they've been given thus far.
Ash nods to Illyana, drawling, "They're a very good scapegoat to blame. But, as he said... many contacts." Though, at Emmanuel's comment, they make a face, adding, maybe not you, but I bet Irene does." That all said, they lean in to Illyana, telling her, "I have to go. Be careful today - there is a dragon about. I don't think you're fire*proof*, so lay low, alright?"
With a last look at the professor, they push the book back to it's spot on the bookshelf - perhaps from spite, before twirling with a regal step and marching out... their pace quickening once out of sight as they hurry off."
too is content with what they have so far. She lets Emmanuel head for the door as she comments to Ash. "Convenient that, isn't it? Though it could provide longer lasting soldiers, I'm pretty confident that people wouldn't want to fight the fight for so long. Bad for the health of all involved mentally, really." That music really is good for villainous monologues, and just like the doctor, Illyana is taking full advantage. "Thank you, Doctor for the lead. We'll be sure to follow it up. Take care of yourself though." And with that, she leaves, waits for Ash, closes the door and uses her gifts to superheat the door handle until it melts, closing the Doctor in his office until he can find janitorial assistance to escape.
When Emmanuel, Illyana and Ash step out of the office, unseen to them and most, there is four eyes looking at them, belonging to two people, asians, far from the other end of the corridor. They watch and trail and follow - and yet, no one bats an eye to look at them. No one even really seems to see them, none of the students, none of the staff, that is beyond those vastly powerful, or those especially perceptive. But the trip out is fine, even safe. There is no one that gives them any bother. And the eyes, well, who knows if they remain on their backs?
Illyana, lacking complete trust in her companions due to recent tumultuous events, nonetheless recognizes their expertise in technology and the arcane. As they deliberate their next steps, clues suggest involvement from Biolabs Pharmaceuticals and a figure known as the Golden Observer, entwining their fates further with the secrecy of Haven.
The triad decides to confront Professor Whitemill at White Oak University, suspecting his knowledge about the seraphic blade linked to Illyana, which compels its wielder towards violence. Upon interrogation, Whitemill reveals his liaisons with a benefactor from the Aurelia Genesis Laboratory , implicating them in sinister experiments on supernatural beings and suggesting ties with the Templar organization, known for their supremacist views against supernaturals.
Despite Whitemill's veiled threats and insinuations, he reluctantly provides a lead to the AGL laboratory. The trio leaves, but not before Illyana subtly employs her powers to trap Whitemill in his office, signaling a small yet defiant victory against the creeping dread shadowing Haven.
As they exit, the story hints at unseen forces monitoring their movements, perhaps allies or adversaries in disguise. The encounter leaves Illyana, Emmanuel, and Ash with more questions than answers, but with a firmer resolve to unravel the sprawling conspiracy threading through Haven's heart. As they step into the murky future, their alliance, tempered by revelations and half-truths, stands as a beacon against the encroaching darkness, promising further confrontations in their quest for truth.
(The Golden Observer(SRRitsuka):SRRitsuka)
[Thu Oct 31 2024]
On Haven
Haven City is a shadowed city nestled at the coast near Boston, Massachusetts. Supernatural beings thrive and struggle under the endless conflict between bustling urban life. To the northwest lies White Oak University, an institution where supernatural study to control their abilities and also features a clinic for not so great experimentation on live people. But the university tends to draw both humans and supernaturals alike. The city is surrounded by endless forests that cover god knows what in its perpetual mist, and a lighthouse still peers and shines over it, guiding people back to a more safe harbor to the city.
It is afternoon, about 66F(18C) degrees,
Spookey hour in Haven! It is perhaps the perfect time to begin a little lookup inot the events that Illyana had to see and come through, or maybe it is just circumstantial. Part of it may have certainly been a message that Illyana received not long ago. The letter she had found, when it was ran to its conclusion, turns out, the Japanese on it was encrypted and beyond the question on who the damn encrypts with kanji, or how genius or stupid that might have been, it's been encrypted, and then translated. Or first encrypted and then translated. It doesn't matter by far.
Upon retrieving the information, Illyana forwards it to those whom it will most certainly concern; Emmanuel and someone. There's no complete trust there, how could there be? Much has happened in the past couple of weeks, though Illyana knows she's not smart enough to handle this without experts, and Emmanuel is most certainly that with technology, and likewise, someone is for the arcane.
Upon retrieving the information, Illyana forwards it to those whom it will most certainly concern; Emmanuel and Ash. There's no complete trust there, how could there be? Much has happened in the past couple of weeks, though Illyana knows she's not smart enough to handle this without experts, and Emmanuel is most certainly that with technology, and likewise, Ash is for the arcane. So when that meeting eventually takes place, and the information is shared, the problem then becomes; How to get to the bottom of the mystery?
There is a bleep on Emmanuel's and Ash's phone, of course, following Illyana forwarding the file to both of them. The file itself is a simple text file that contains the following:
For the eyes of the Golden Shadow only,
As you carry out the retrieval of the specified object, remember the delicate balance we maintain with our external agents. Ensure no trace of the acquisition process leads back to our benefactor, as your careful touch is required to protect all invested parties.
Once in possession of the artifact, hold on to it and right outside Haven's perimeter and the forest and await further instructions. The 'item may prove useful during extraction; the clients intention is that its energy and influence be contained as instructed. Under no circumstances allow any outsiders to retrieve or observe the items containment process.
After the artifact is secured, there will be no further need to concern yourself with its fate. Our associates at our primary facility will handle the rest. You are to avoid direct contact with the personnel from our subsidised facility at Biolabs Pharmaceuticalsengage only through intermediaries if necessary. Biolabs' internal operations are unrelated and obscured from prying eyes. I am sure its owner may be of keen interest to you in the medical field, perhaps a new future hire to you? Mutual interest, review her file at your own disclosure. Internal file can be provided to you.
For our interest in observation, the artifact is intended to fall into the hand of a singular person: Illyana Howlett. A descendant of both angel and demon, relies on both of her lineages. Provide observation results from in combat use from our agent and for the target. Exercise utmost caution in all direct and indirect interactions.
We trust you will complete your role discreetly and efficiently, as expected.
Your work ensures the highest gains and lasting favor with the Observer. Let this serve as a reminder that our partnership rests on mutual silence and absolute diligence.
Signed,
Observer at AGL
Ash looks over Emmanuel when he arrives on the scene, stiffening a little... but not overly so. They murmur, "You've recovered well, it seems," before turning to Illyana. "Sounds like we should start with Biolabs and Ms. Shimomi. If she's not the owner, she's at least involved. I'm on good terms with her, so I could reach out... but, she's stubborn. She's unlikely to be of help due to her loyalty." Scrolling through the text, they also suggest, "If we can figure out who AGL is in this letter... that's another trail to follow."
Emmanuel's eyes are many things. Amber. Pretty. Ooey. Gooey. Squinty. French. But, of the many things they are, they certainly /aren't/ belonging to the Golden Shadow. One can imagine the quiet amusement of their owner then as they read over the received message, and note that their eyes are in fact invalid for this communique. Though that amusement does not last particularly long as details are revealed. The fact that these cultists, and their benefactors were not only aware of the taint of Illyana's blood, but had also sought her out specifically is a worrying affair, at the least.
Just as Illyana had volunteered to assist Emmanuel and his Disruptive allies in stealing away an artifact from Vetr Corp, so too does the Templar then offer his own modest help in dealing with Illyana's strange weapon of sorts. Halloween seems as apt a time as any to hunt through the mist and shadow that haunts the outer limits of Haven, and thus here they are, standing around with a mild sort of frown, and body armour, while a bunch of dorks prance about the town in costumes, preparing to get liquored up, and treat some tricks.
Speaking of dorks.. "Ash." Emmanuel greets the costumed enby with their name, and little more, canting his gaze over toward Illyana then, "Are you having anything else to go on?"
"Ritsuka is lovely." Illyana tells Ash. "Maybe be less weird and she might be more likely to talk with you, but yes. Her loyalties will preclude her from all that much." There's no venom there, but there's most certainly some small annoyance, even if it's a true statement that Illyana doesn't want to hear. It is most curious then when Illyana nods to Emmanuel with less frustration, flashing a photo between Ash and Emmanuel with the picture of the symbol upon the missive; The triangle with the caduceus within it. "That's all I got aside from observations with the sword I uh..." and here's some mental gymnastics to validate larsony from a fully fledged and governmentally and supernaturally approved instilation. "Rescued." the bohemian nods, as if this were the only possible answer. "The blade, named Seraphim seems to be a demon killer and a bane in its own right. It speaks to you if you've got angel blood and compells you towards violence. Though it didn't help the White Oak security guard who nicked it and then got deaded by it." (Likely some creative truth) "Or the two Golden Shadow members I killed to retrieve it. There was no paperwork in the tent, and there's no evidence on account of me having burned everything about that encounter to ash." Nodding with satisfaction, having shared the disjointed information, Illyana has likely obliterated a good point from which to begin, but being no expert by any means, and having only the information translated into a text document, she looks pretty smug with having that much to hand.
Ash tilts their head at Illyana, their jewels clinking at her comment. "What are you talking about? We talk just fine? I meant her loyalties - that's where she's stubborn" Their voice is shows their confusion as Yana both gets defensive without an attack, as well as launching what seems to be an offensive comment without, from Ash's perspective, cause. "I was suggesting that I could talk to her *because* we talk together well."
Business comes in then, though. "The sword that they specifically put there for you, specifically, to rescue... the teacher who sent you on that mission is likely involved, another lead to start with. Do you remember which professor it was?" They lean towards Illyana for this, typing a few notes on their phone.
There is a cold breeze that sways over the street, taking along a few strands of hair for those with longer hair. The symbol is not on any particular building within Haven, as far as shops and the industrial district go. Biolab Pharmaceuticals does have its own: a caduceus with wings and the logo above, it is not outright public in the shop, but more humbly shown on staff nameplates and besides the locked door with the fingerprint and retinal scanner lock.
Ugh. What a drag. Ash just made a good point and now Emmanuel has to deal with that. Is there anything more annoying than when someone you don't like makes a decent point? Geez. Well, with that okayish point raised Emmanuel notes, "Following up on the professor might non be a bad idea. If that weapon was planted then it is likely that the person who was pointing you toward it might be too. And we are knowing just how easy it is for people to get a contract at the White Oaks too, hm?" The Frenchman points out, and clucks his tongue gently, hooking his hands into his pockets as he speaks, and glancing this way and that up the street, "This is being your party, Yana, Ash and I are just here to be dancing to your tune. Do we explore the pharmacy, or the Institute, mon amie?"
"The professor never gave a name and I was too pissed off to ask; Nikolai told me I was being ridden for entertainment by Dominus shortly before, so I decided to get it done. Then I got pissed off by being made to kill the crazy bitch with the psychotic sword that I needed to keep out of everyone's grasp, so I sto-- Rescued it." Illyana still seems on edge, but that's less likely targeted at Ash and likely more at Haven in general- That or pent up violence for too long. She looks as though she's eaten, but the inability to truly fight under Gonthorian's ploy is vexing for anyone, let alone someone who wouldrather feed on rage through combat. "That's... Actually a good point." the bohemian allows, frowning at Ash. "But in my defense, most of this needed translating and I only got it back today..." Trailing off, she looks between Emmanuel and Ash as she shares, "The chemist's logo is a caduceus with wings. So it might be related. But I don't want to break in and assault Ritsuka over what could only be a coincidence. But I have no authority in White Oak either." And of course this is said with the pathological pragmatism of someone who has decided something on the thin pivit point of 'I like you. I don't give two shits about you.' "So I guess the professor is who we track down. But I'd rather no violence if we can help it." - There's going to be violence. There's always violence, but Illyana would still like to mitigate it. It's only right. So reaching for her phone again, she pointedly notes in what she recalls of said professor; Build, hair color, eye color, his garments and briefcase, his occupation and waits for a responce from the researchers that she's conscripted for the task in full 'You work for me now- And by the way, you cant stop me, so fucking do it.' mode. Heroic indeed how she's stepping on people to get what she needs- Konstantin must be so proud. As she types, Illyana tells Emmanuel (who works for White Oak via contract) and Ash (who is a student there and has delivered lectures), "Brown hair, pale skin, dark eyes, suspiciously long rain coat, a briefcase that is beaten but well made. Maybe you know this guy so we can find his address and visit?"
Ash pulls up the staff roster on their phone, drawling, "If he *actually* works there, he should be on the staff roster. From there, we can get his name and investigate his address from there. However, it's very possible that he's not a professor... it's an equal chance, with White Oak being... what it is." There's a bit of gripe there, at the end, but they move off.
"And yeah... I don't want to assault anyone. The fun is in the finding, so that's what I'm better at focusing on. That said, a caduceus is a *very* global symbol, it's on anything medical. I wouldn't assume a tie to the symbol just by that merit, though the place is still suspicious. I've thought it over, and I don't think we can do much with the symbol than watch out for it. Unless Emmanuel has a clue?" They tilt their head to him, for his imput.
There's something about the mention of the rain coat that affords Emmanuel some mild pause, and there's a question that comes after it, "A yellow raincoat?" He queries of Illyana with a squint, then falling silent to digest the rest of the information she'd given for the time being. On the subject of breaking in, Emmanuel raises a brow, "..Breaking and entering does non mean assaulting people, hm? It usually means just- you are knowing, being sneaky-beaky." There's another beat before he adds, "Have we tried actually asking Ritsuka?"
Looking to Emmanuel for his clue and or insight (He's french. They're nearly as good as italians fir ideas), Illyana receives a notification, reading to Ash and Emmanuel, "Doctor Whitemill; Professor of bio and genetics." There's a moment and Illyana considers not saying anything- Then of course does; How could she not. "Sounds like a pedo. Anyway, we can visit him at White Oak in his office where I am very literally not allowed to physically beat his head in. But Emmy is here so we could just break in if he's not home.How do we feel about that play?"
"I asked Ritsuka." Illyana shrugs. "She says she could likely find out but was reluctant because she'd have to withhold any information I actually wanted if it was her employer- And no. It was brown." the bohemian responds to the coat color question from Emmanuel. "I'm also not very subtle. So let's hope I don't need to be supernatural, or that's a huge fucking fire on the hill tops."
Ash eyes Illyana for her aggressiveness - not that it's easy to see, given their veil. Instead, they simply adjust, crossing their arms over their chest. To Emmanuel, they shake their head, drawling, "Not yet - this is us discussing doing so." He was here for this, of course. As Ash brought up the pros and cons of talking to Ritsuka, and as Yana explained that she only just got this information. Nonetheless, it seems the call is to follow the professor.
"In the meantime, I'll have his address investigated, in case he's out of office." They slide to a different app on their phone, tapping a few times, before using their tactile keyboard to type at quite some speed. After a quick moment of that, they slide the keyboard in with a snap, going, alright. "You might want to let me and or Emmanuel do that, if he's home... for his own safety." There's another hint of concern there, before they ask, "Do you have Seraphim on you now?"
Ash finds that Yana mentions speaking to Ritsuka, and Ash nods. "Mmm, sounds about right. Sounds like her. She'll likely be happy to help if it's not directly related to her employers."
There's a lot of discussion going on, that's for certain. Emmanuel glances between Illyana and Ash as they make their points, before clucking his tongue gently, "The house then, oui?" He suggests, more keen to get moving than anything else.
"Hell no. I hid it." Illyana nods to Ash. "I'm not an idiot." she adds, in tones that hint of 'Oh hey, that was a good idea.' "I'm very frustrated today." the bohemian mentions to Ash all too casually, "The Sam thing the other day and now Bill seems to have feeding sickness. And somehow, it's bothering me more than it should." Smalltalk continuing, she shoots Ash a greatful smile; Something far less hostile. "Yeah for safety." she agrees as the group make their way to White Oak and Whitemill's office specifically.""
The way through to White Oak is uneventful. The city is at it usual busy and no one seems to really pay the trio any attention and even White Oak itself pays little attention. Though there is one student that does offer a faint greeting to Emmanuel, recognizing him from a lesson he had previously given. It is a few corridors down this or that way before it gets to plate besides a door that has the right room - and be it with knocking or without, the party finds itself in the professor's room.
Delicate tunes of a piano plays from an old vinyl player from one corner, with the brown haired man sitting behind an old looking desk. He is looking over some papers, works with a red pencil and makes markings on the page in front of him. Bookshelves with largely medical tomes line the walls, some of which look to be old with ones far newer mixed between. Some with a title that implies to be about psychology also look through once in a while between the other books.
The man himself sets pen down and his gaze turns and directs to the group that enters and focuses on Emmanuel a moment before swaying to Ash and then back to Illyana. "Please, have a seat you three." He gestures to the chair on the other side of the desk. "How can I be helping you today? Anything with classes? Or more general questions for the university?" Behind him, a clock ticks and ticks and ticks, the center of its clockwork, where the arrows slowly circle is a very black spot.
Ash follows along in their flowing gown and cape-like train, fluttering behind them. As they carry on the smalltalk - likely making them less suspicious than marching in with determination, like they have a mission to accomplish. "What did Sam do the other day? And I hope that it's not his sister... he says that she's better now, but...." They trail off as they near their destination.
It's here that Ash realizes... their gown, as fabulous as it is... is not made for sitting on such little chairs. They stare at one for the moment before drawling, "I'll stand, thank you." In the meantime, they try to not be too awkward as they take note over several specific things that come to mind.
Noting that clock center, Illyana is suspicious; This is haven. It's likely a camera. Those are everywhere. But thankfully, Emmanuel is an expert with those. Illyana on the other hand looks to Ash, doesn't take a seat, and tells the professor; "No. It's not about classes." - No small talk then. That's a bad sign for those who know Illyana. "It's about the sword you sent me for and accidentally broke." she lies, smoothly, though she waits for Ash and Emmanuel to add their imput before she flips her shit and ruins the diplomatic nature of the meeting with a healthy amount of psychic or hypnotic violence.
Emmanuel just barely manages to fend off the desire to step on the train of Ash's gown a they wander into the Institute, extending a few polite nods and 'how do you do's' to various students until they find themselves in the office of the professor, and takes a seat for himself. It seems like he is the only one who does so. To be fair, he is far older, and recovering from a near-death experience. The Frenchman gestures toward Illyana at her words, throwing his support behind them.
Ash slowly summons a single will o' wisp - above, behind the professor's head, right to where the center of the clock is. They brighten it just a bit, as if turning a knob for room lighting - just enough to cause a glare if there is truly a camera within. But, ideally, not enough to catch the man's attention - after all, the change is slow, and the room is *presumably* well lit at this time of day.
"I find it highly doubtful the artifact would break, it is from the Celestial Forged, but I have not had the pleasure of taking a look at the remaining shards, miss Howlett," Professor Whitemill replies, placing his hands on the desk in front of him. His gaze goes from Illyana to Emmanuel. "The note I saw said that there were no shards found at the campsite, but how can I help you with it today? I presume the weapon is to remain lost for the time."
Illyana certainly didn't think that far ahead, and now it's slowly beginning to bite her in the ass. Never the less, she answers with the roll of a shoulder in a shrug. "It's broken." she responds. "I don't know what else to tell you." (She's not hiding anything really. It is broken coloquially; A sword that is a bane to demons and empowers the wielder. It's just not the kind of broken implied.) "You know about it. That's wonderful. Do you know what the connection is between it and me specifically, and why the Golden Shadow wanted me specifically; Someone with mixed blood less specifically to hold it?" Illyana may have forgotten to share that part. But she's sharing it with Ash and Emmanuel now. That's what matters, of course. "And more directly, why did you," and it's here that Illyana points a finger at Doctor Whitemill, "Ask me to go?" There's no direct allegation, but it's most certainly implied.
Ash tilts their head, checked out for a moment, before they muse, "I heard a story about the Celestial Forges in a book about the War in Heaven, where demons and angels waged war after Satan rebelled against God. But... that didn't actually happen in real life. Demons were made by humans and trapped in Sirinia, and Angels were servants more than soldiers. Can you tell me about what the actual Celestial Forge is?"
They look to Doctor Whitemill with curiosity. They already knew that the Golden Shadow wanted Yana specifically to hold it due to her specific heritage - the letter said as much, if not Yana in previous conversations. They offer it as an alternative - in case the man felt uninclined to answer Illyana's questions.
With this many questions already being asked of the professor, Emmanuel elects to remain silent, and waits for the answers that are, no doubt, coming.
There is a smile that forms on the professor's lips as his gaze turns back to Illyana and she focuses on her. There is something unspoken - at first - and then he does tell "Miss Howlett, it is quite simple. A benefactor let us know about the artifact, and specifically requested you personally to handle it during testing." The music from the vinyl player draws into an even, darker tone with the tunes of the piano. "In hindsight, it seems obvious now that more was facilitated through the Golden Shadow. The absence of the shards makes me consider that it has been recovered by the benefactor and if you are asking for my advise, it would be better to work for them, than against this mutual benefactor. They had proven to be a very interested participant."
The professor looks to Ash "They used them and made weapons to specifically fight demons and to destroy their artifacts. The precise details to the procedure are largely lost, and I do not know them. It is perhaps not prevalent to the conversation unless you are presuming the benefactor has access to one?" The man rises to his feet, turns around and makes to walk closer to one of the bookshelves. "I think not."
He moves to pull one of the books, but not all the way out and turns back to the trio. "The Golden Shadow is still active around Haven, they do have a branch in the city. But what exactly are you looking for?"
Pouncing on the question now it's directly asked; Illyana tells the good doctor, "The name of the benefactor to begin with. The identity of the initials listed at the bottom of this document." And here, the bohemian flips her phone, turns it to Doctor Whitemill and enlarges them so there's no missing it. "The identity of the triangle and caduceus logo so we can plan for the next leg in this. And I'd /be very thankful if you'd give us these answers/." There is weight to this last aspect of her question; A subtle resonance in tone and tambra as Illyana applies psychicly enhanced persuasion to get the answers she wants- Assuming of course that it's successful.
Ash eyes the man as he only partially pulls out the book, suspicion flaring in their paranoia.
The professor takes the few steps back to the desk and looks over what Illyana shows to him. "I very much recommend you let it go, miss Howlett. They are the Golden Observer. The one to spread the wealth to us less fortunate far from the abilities that your own can accomplish. The caduceus in the triangle is their symbol, of course." A pause, removing himself a short distance again, before looking and focused on Emmanuel again. And he smiles again. "I hear they like to experiment on Supernaturals. Drive them through their trials and imprison them in their lower blocks. There is some rumors about one or two imprisoned demigods on the lowest levels, experiments done to create youth potion or two. Make a new product to sell to a customer, as some of your former affiliation would have been happy to try at, Miss Howlett."
His gaze lingers on Emmanuel. "But this is nothing new to some of the people here, is it? I'm quite surprised you have not asked your friend here about it. Has he not told you about any of it and let you off on a goose chase? I can tell you he is quite familiar with the operation at the AGL laboratory."
There's a slight rise of Emmanuel's brow at that later accusation, and then he turns a little in his chair to ensure there isn't someone standing behind him. He glances back to the Professor, and then chuffs quietly, "Ah, she is being like a dog with a bone, mon ami, I doubt she will be letting it go." He starts up to his feet then, with the groan of a far older man. "For someone who is speaking so many words, you are saying so little. This is being the problem with higher education, hm?" He laments, half-seriously, then canting his gaze aside to Illyana, "This tree is non worth being barked up. I think it is best we use all my many, many apparent connections to visit the lab."
Ash moves closer to the man, sidling around the side of the desk, while singing in a jazzy little hum, "Hey, be kind, be patient, Be hard to please, It seems contradicting, but do it honestly! Just give a little, give a little Give a little, give a little... Until you disintegrate, hey."
They lean on the desk with a gloved hand, moving around the side as they seem to be openly hostile to the man's movement, despite the cheery tune. "Whose symbol? Why don't you at least *give her another lead to this Golden Observer*, and we can call it a day, yes? Surely that's not too much to ask?"
"You clearly want to say more, so please, carry on the villain monologue. Don't let us stop you." Moving back to lean against a wall, Illyana's arms cross, though her eyes, behind her sunglasses narrow. She's all too ready to believe Temple involvement, but isn't so easily convinced to turn on one another as all that... Even if she'd like to hurt someone right now, and there's no Father Jack to direct her down a better path. So rather than producing fire and burning something like she might, she files away the name; 'Golden Observer' for later and proves her eraticness by waiting for more context as Ash does what they do.
"You are looking for the Aurelia Gensesis Laboratory. If you look for it, I'm sure you will find it seeing as the Templar are happy to be involved with the facility," The professor still smiles, and then sits down back onto his chair, picking up his pen again to start noting something down on the papers in front of him. "The Golden Observer's name is not known to me. Now if there is nothing else, I think we should finish this here and get back to our corresponding work?"
"You do lead the Temple." Illyana mentions to Emmanuel as though they were conversing over coffee, all casual-like. "It's very easy to believe that your people, if not you directly are experimenting on demigods for youth potions. YOu've done worse, and will likely continue to do far far more than that." Illyana is very aware with who she's working with. One doesn't jump into bed with the devil without fire retardent condoms. "The problem though," she continues, in somewhat o a monologue of her own, sharing the thought with Ash and Emmanuel as though Whitemill wern't there, "Is how very obvious the simple answer is; Of course the supremacists would use the supernaturals as chattle to benefit humanity."
"I do non think the Temple gives much of a damn about cosmetics." Emmanuel notes in simple response, and then there's an arch of the brow at the label of 'supremacist' being given to the anti-supernatural group. He commits the name of the laboratory to mind, and then starts to head back over toward the door then, apparently content with the leads they've been given thus far.
Ash nods to Illyana, drawling, "They're a very good scapegoat to blame. But, as he said... many contacts." Though, at Emmanuel's comment, they make a face, adding, maybe not you, but I bet Irene does." That all said, they lean in to Illyana, telling her, "I have to go. Be careful today - there is a dragon about. I don't think you're fire*proof*, so lay low, alright?"
With a last look at the professor, they push the book back to it's spot on the bookshelf - perhaps from spite, before twirling with a regal step and marching out... their pace quickening once out of sight as they hurry off."
too is content with what they have so far. She lets Emmanuel head for the door as she comments to Ash. "Convenient that, isn't it? Though it could provide longer lasting soldiers, I'm pretty confident that people wouldn't want to fight the fight for so long. Bad for the health of all involved mentally, really." That music really is good for villainous monologues, and just like the doctor, Illyana is taking full advantage. "Thank you, Doctor for the lead. We'll be sure to follow it up. Take care of yourself though." And with that, she leaves, waits for Ash, closes the door and uses her gifts to superheat the door handle until it melts, closing the Doctor in his office until he can find janitorial assistance to escape.
When Emmanuel, Illyana and Ash step out of the office, unseen to them and most, there is four eyes looking at them, belonging to two people, asians, far from the other end of the corridor. They watch and trail and follow - and yet, no one bats an eye to look at them. No one even really seems to see them, none of the students, none of the staff, that is beyond those vastly powerful, or those especially perceptive. But the trip out is fine, even safe. There is no one that gives them any bother. And the eyes, well, who knows if they remain on their backs?