Lancelot du Lac (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
knightscode) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
undergrounds2015-12-03 09:25 pm
knightscode) wrote in undergrounds2015-12-03 09:25 pm
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A) REDBRIGHT RESEARCH -- OPEN
Gaining a sudden gift for telekinesis was not something Lancelot entirely expected. It has been at turns alarming, confusing and funny.
The fact that the power had kicked in before the formal letter from the Night Council hadn't helped, although he'd been a little relieved when he'd read it and realised it wasn't anything more sinister. For all he knew it might have been a curse, after all. He hadn't forgotten the one that he befallen Nancy (had she ever worked out who it was, he wondered? Or was that still a mystery?) and while such an ability didn't seem like punishment he could see how it could quickly become as such if it wanted to.
The trouble of it all is that Lancelot has no experience wielding real magic. He can run faster than others, he can punch harder, he can vault up walls but casting a spell? That is nothing Lancelot has any experience with, and moving things about with his mind is not something he particularly wants to lose control of. Lancelot tries to stay a peaceable person when he can, someone who doesn't go out of his way to take a life, and the last think he'd want to do is hurt someone without meaning to simply because his new-found powers took over.
So it is that Lancelot turns up at Redbright, the best place he knows to learn anything magical, and turns to books. He isn't the best at research -- in truth, he's quite bad at combing books for such things -- but nothing ventured, nothing gained. If it will help him make sure he doesn't toss half his kitchen around with his mind just because he burnt his breakfast then it will be all for the better.
He only wishes he'd brought a bigger cup of coffee with him, because his eyes are starting to glaze over faster than he'd like.
B) GIFT SHOPPING -- OPEN
Why Lancelot thought going shopping on a weekend in December was a good idea remains a mystery, but the fact of the matter is that he has. He hasn't bought any gifts yet, and even devoid of ideas as he is Lancelot knows he has to try. Coffee in hand, and dog safely at home where she won't be too worried by the crowds, Lancelot braves the masses and tries desperately to work out what people might even like.
By lunchtime his energy is beginning to flag, and by the afternoon he's quite certain if another person bumps him out of the way he's liable to perform a citizen's arrest.
He's bought at least one gift, made a few mental notes to compare prices on others and now his feet are starting to hurt and he'd really like to sit down, if he can manage to find somewhere quiet. It's starting to feel borderline impossible, but there has to be somewhere in this place he can get himself a drink and something to eat which isn't packed already. He sighs in irritation, dodges out of the way of a particularly large buggy with large bags hanging off it and vows to do the rest of his shopping online. As much as he likes supporting local shops the people using them really can be terrible.
Steeling himself he makes another attempt to duck his way through the crowds and find himself a coffee shop or a bench. Either would work at this point, he isn't fussed.
C) REPORT -- CLOSED TO SYLVIA
Across Sylvia's desk, toward the end of November, will come a sealed file from Lancelot. It's stamped with an official Night Council marking, and he brings it personally -- he needs to be sure, after all, that it does not get even a glance from the wrong person.
C) HOMECOMING -- CLOSED TO FAOLAN
Lancelot is fussing. He's aware he's fussing, and that he should take it easy, but it's been a while since he's really been able to spend time with Faolan and he's pleased to have the man back.
So he's fussing, checking on the food he's cooking and that the bathroom has clean towels -- that all his mess is cleared away and that there are sheets and blankets and things ready for the futon when Faolan wants to turn in. Lancelot fully expects Faolan to be exhausted, after all, and grateful for somewhere safe to be able to hide -- for a given value of safe.
Lily barks a short alert at the sound of the doorbell and a few seconds later Lancelot is opening it, greeting Faolan in a flurry of smiles and fluffy white animal enthusiastically bouncing beside him. He's dressed down at this time of night, faded jeans and a loose v-neck -- hair a little mussed from running his fingers through it as he works.
"Come in, please!" he says quickly -- and stands aside to let Faolan bring in his things before he assaults him further. The extractor fan is whirring in the kitchen, signalling food at some point, and Lily dances along by Faolan's feet as he moves -- bouncing as she fights down the enthusiastic urge to jump up at him. "Put your things anywhere you want. I've tried to make a little space. Are you hungry? I've started some food but it can keep or wait if need be. I just wasn't sure if you'd have eaten before or on the way over, so..."
Gaining a sudden gift for telekinesis was not something Lancelot entirely expected. It has been at turns alarming, confusing and funny.
The fact that the power had kicked in before the formal letter from the Night Council hadn't helped, although he'd been a little relieved when he'd read it and realised it wasn't anything more sinister. For all he knew it might have been a curse, after all. He hadn't forgotten the one that he befallen Nancy (had she ever worked out who it was, he wondered? Or was that still a mystery?) and while such an ability didn't seem like punishment he could see how it could quickly become as such if it wanted to.
The trouble of it all is that Lancelot has no experience wielding real magic. He can run faster than others, he can punch harder, he can vault up walls but casting a spell? That is nothing Lancelot has any experience with, and moving things about with his mind is not something he particularly wants to lose control of. Lancelot tries to stay a peaceable person when he can, someone who doesn't go out of his way to take a life, and the last think he'd want to do is hurt someone without meaning to simply because his new-found powers took over.
So it is that Lancelot turns up at Redbright, the best place he knows to learn anything magical, and turns to books. He isn't the best at research -- in truth, he's quite bad at combing books for such things -- but nothing ventured, nothing gained. If it will help him make sure he doesn't toss half his kitchen around with his mind just because he burnt his breakfast then it will be all for the better.
He only wishes he'd brought a bigger cup of coffee with him, because his eyes are starting to glaze over faster than he'd like.
B) GIFT SHOPPING -- OPEN
Why Lancelot thought going shopping on a weekend in December was a good idea remains a mystery, but the fact of the matter is that he has. He hasn't bought any gifts yet, and even devoid of ideas as he is Lancelot knows he has to try. Coffee in hand, and dog safely at home where she won't be too worried by the crowds, Lancelot braves the masses and tries desperately to work out what people might even like.
By lunchtime his energy is beginning to flag, and by the afternoon he's quite certain if another person bumps him out of the way he's liable to perform a citizen's arrest.
He's bought at least one gift, made a few mental notes to compare prices on others and now his feet are starting to hurt and he'd really like to sit down, if he can manage to find somewhere quiet. It's starting to feel borderline impossible, but there has to be somewhere in this place he can get himself a drink and something to eat which isn't packed already. He sighs in irritation, dodges out of the way of a particularly large buggy with large bags hanging off it and vows to do the rest of his shopping online. As much as he likes supporting local shops the people using them really can be terrible.
Steeling himself he makes another attempt to duck his way through the crowds and find himself a coffee shop or a bench. Either would work at this point, he isn't fussed.
C) REPORT -- CLOSED TO SYLVIA
Across Sylvia's desk, toward the end of November, will come a sealed file from Lancelot. It's stamped with an official Night Council marking, and he brings it personally -- he needs to be sure, after all, that it does not get even a glance from the wrong person.
30th November 2015 FAO: SYLVIA REDBRIGHT, PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL As of the 27th of November Faolan O'Neill officially returned from his time within the Shadow Coven. His new position within Hillingdon made it difficult for him to keep a low profile, and I believe this was for the best both for his own safety and for the integrity of the Night Council as a public outing would be damaging. His status is better used within the Night Council rather than hidden with risk of reprisal. Below is the combined sum of the information learned. Known Midnight Supporters. Listed members of the Shadow Coven have been confirmed. Nancy Fagin, 18 years old, is a blood worker and streetwalker. Her sentiment is as follows: "It's not about wanting to do dark, evil things. It's about the freedom to be able to, should we need to." Kenzi Malikov is also Shadow Coven. Faolan observed her and Abigail setting up wards and protective magic around their designated home, although the exact spells were unknown to him. They remain secretive, and Guardians remain of the opinion further investigation may prove similarly ineffective. Alice Liddell, exact age unknown but young enough to be studying, is confirmed as a member of Midnight. Has been observed associating with Shadow Coven, Kenzi Malikov specifically. Appears unstable, prone to nerves, violence and possible hallucinations. Njoki Rainmaker, exact association with Midnight unknown. Arrived in town a few months back, has no strong connections yet to the above mentioned girls. Faolan acquired one of her business cards, which advertises for, "Hoodoo & Conjure / Hands Made, Tricks Crossed, / Uncrossed & Things Done". Sentiment. In conversation with members of Circle Midnight several common opinions were ascertained. They expressed a clear doubt of the neutrality of the Night Council and its leadership, citing Barnet as examples of bias and the following memorial as Daybreak witches ‘pretending’ to mourn their Midnight sisters. The belief that the Mother of Witches does not 'really care' is a clear one, that Circle Midnight are in some way oppressed and that Daybreak has a degree of protection. Members are focused on protecting themselves and their own, quickly closing ranks when threatened. Paranoia and recklessness have been observed, suggesting that recent events have increased the feeling they are threatened. This has been especially observed in the member Kenzi Malikov. Members associate freely with Vampires and Fae alike, although the former appears to be a mixed association. Although some work closely with them others, notably Kenzi and Alice, harbour poor feeling toward them. A persuasive attempt with Nancy Fagin that attacking the Night Council and Mother of Witches will not gain understanding, instead 'prove' they cannot be trusted, has been declared 'heard'. General Conclusions and Observations. Members of Circle Midnight tend toward the younger age range, with late teens to early twenties seeming common. Members have often displayed a degree of instability in their personal lives, both past and present. Members display strong opinions, but not of a malicious or destructive nature. Members desire for the 'freedom' to make their own mistakes. Members are secretive and slow to trust strangers during current tensions, making private investigation ineffective when compared to open approaches. When approached candidly, members respond well to being listened to and reassured. LANCELOT DULAC GUARDIAN, NIGHT COUNCIL |
C) HOMECOMING -- CLOSED TO FAOLAN
Lancelot is fussing. He's aware he's fussing, and that he should take it easy, but it's been a while since he's really been able to spend time with Faolan and he's pleased to have the man back.
So he's fussing, checking on the food he's cooking and that the bathroom has clean towels -- that all his mess is cleared away and that there are sheets and blankets and things ready for the futon when Faolan wants to turn in. Lancelot fully expects Faolan to be exhausted, after all, and grateful for somewhere safe to be able to hide -- for a given value of safe.
Lily barks a short alert at the sound of the doorbell and a few seconds later Lancelot is opening it, greeting Faolan in a flurry of smiles and fluffy white animal enthusiastically bouncing beside him. He's dressed down at this time of night, faded jeans and a loose v-neck -- hair a little mussed from running his fingers through it as he works.
"Come in, please!" he says quickly -- and stands aside to let Faolan bring in his things before he assaults him further. The extractor fan is whirring in the kitchen, signalling food at some point, and Lily dances along by Faolan's feet as he moves -- bouncing as she fights down the enthusiastic urge to jump up at him. "Put your things anywhere you want. I've tried to make a little space. Are you hungry? I've started some food but it can keep or wait if need be. I just wasn't sure if you'd have eaten before or on the way over, so..."
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He reaches out a hand to gently touch her arm, trying to guide her with him away from the throngs of people toward the exit.
"Somewhere which does very good hot chocolate and will make you a fresh waffle to have with toppings."
Which, he somehow suspects from his general impression of Siobhan, is something that will appeal to her. Lots of sweetness.
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Said with a cheerful grin as she hooks her arm around his, partly because she likes him and partly because people get out of his way more than they do hers so there is a slightly smaller chance of getting jostled if she stays closer to him.
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He winks playfully at her, steering her carefully through the crowds of London shoppers all frantically buying last minute gifts.
"Besides, anyone who doesn't like hot chocolate and waffles isn't a person I'd like to know."
Perhaps not entirely true, but still -- worth a smile at least, he thinks, and Sioban has a particularly bright and sunny smile.
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"So do you."
She briefly leans her head on his shoulder to sort of turn the arm-hook into a pseudo-hug.
"You out looking for gifts?"
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He wrinkles his nose, shifting a hand to rest over Siobhan's on his arm.
"I should just get you to make everyone little charms for me. That way it's all practical and meaningful and you can afford yourself a few more cups of coffee."
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Siobhan has pride, just not the sort that makes her turn down help when she needs it. Especially not since Lancelot would be getting something out of it too. Her charms are good!
"If you tell me a little about the people you want to give gifts to I can make them a wee bit more personal."
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"Well, one of them is a man so grumpy I bought him a Mr Grumpy travel mug for his birthday. He's kind enough just... growly before coffee, growly about change, wary of people. Like a poorly treated dog, I suppose."
He wrinkles his nose again, tilts his head slightly as slides to lead her by the hand a moment through a narrow bit of pavement populated by too many people standing still and chatting.
"He probably wouldn't like me saying that."
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She wrinkles her nose a little in thought and then smiles again.
"Pretty sure he is less fond of me popping up to give him hugs."
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"Here we go!" he says, "have whatever you want, consider it a gift from me."
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She gets up on tip-toes to give him a kiss on the cheek for being such a sweetheart before addressing something very important.
"And I can't believe Faolan is your friend, that's who I was talking about too!"
She figures chances are pretty low that there are two extremely grumpy men named Faolan around these parts.
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"I'd like to have seen his face when you hugged him," he admits, and already in his head he's conjuring up visions of such a thing. They mostly involve Faolan doing his grumpy face or a startled/confused animal in headlights variation. "That makes it easier, then! You can help me work out something to keep him out of trouble. I told him to buy an amulet before and I'm not sure he ever did."
Still, he gently turns her by the shoulders to face the counter.
"Food first though. What do you want? Just frozen yoghurt with toppings? A waffle, a crepe? With frozen yoghurt or cream?"
He grins to himself a little, glances up as one of the staff come out of the kitchen area and pick up a notepad to jot down their order.
"Flat white for me," he says, since he figures she needs a moment longer to decide.
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Because part of her brain is currently just going give me everything which isn't particularly helpful of it.
"Lancelot. This is the best place ever."
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"Can you think of a drink, at least? Hot chocolate or coffee, or something else?"
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Yes, she is sounding like she is about seven years old and she doesn't give even the tiniest fuck about it.
"And I'll have a waffle. With strawberries and milk chocolate and... Are those little bits of fudge? Because in that case those too please."
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"So," he begins curiously, "when did you meet Faolan, then?"
Of all the people for Faolan to know, Siobhan is somehow... not one he would have expected.
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She shrugs a little.
"I gave him a hug."
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"Forgive me, please, it is only -- well, I can hardly imagine he appreciated the gesture."
In public, from a person he'd only just met. Faolan's face must have been a picture of dismay.
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Siobhan is going a little red now as she's talking about it because she does feel bad about the shock she gave poor Faolan.
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"He's not so good with displays of affection," Lancelot says ruefully, sitting back a little as their drinks are slid in front of them and flashing the waitress a smile before sipping at it. Good timing, the drink can help him calm down. "I made him a birthday cake the other month, I'm not so sure I've ever seen someone so unsure how to handle a birthday cake."
Yet there's something fond in it too, because for all his flaws Lancelot is terribly fond of Faolan and all his quirks.