Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana makes an elegant stride into the bar. It's been quite some time since she's been out, but she can justify it just this once. A celebration of sorts for her self-proclaimed success with the members of the board. She'll be prodding on humans in no time. She flashes her ID at the door and gracefully steps toward the bar, slipping through people with a practiced ease. This was nothing compared to the crowds in the hospitals during a busy period.

Aerin Thomas: He's sitting at the bar, a cigarette pressed between his lips, a drink in front of him. The tension in the man's body is enough to snap an industrial spring. The anger's gone, but the rest...let's see. Vampire Sect chasing him and his mate down? Check. Sept turned completely around and against you? Check. Former lover mysteriously dead? Check. Three checks is the magic number for a very tense Aerin. He adjusts the way his trenchcoat is sitting on his shoulders and makes his way to the bar.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: She dressed in a flowing ankle length black silk skirt under a simple white tunic blouse. Her black silk gloves match her purse, strap layed over her shoulder as not to loose the thing. She is sans glasses as she's trying her best not to read on her exciting night out. Long dark hair falling in waves down her back.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: The older woman slips up next to Aerin. She's not remarkable to look at, but holds herself with a quiet grace. Confident. She steps up and speaks quaintly to the barkeep "Long Island Iced Tea, dear. Please." she digs through her purse for some cash.

Aerin Thomas: d10: Per+Alert: 9,2,2,6,7,7,

Aerin Thomas: He looks over as Adriana approaches, glancing warily at first at the person approaching. When he notes she's not a threat, near as he can tell, he nods to her, tersely. "Hello."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana blinks over to the stranger, giving him a protocol smile. "Hello, dear." She states in a shrill tone before sliding a few bills to the counter for her drink.

Aerin Thomas: He looks back to the bar, picking up his shot of scotch and knocking it back. He has a bottle of the stuff next to him...hard day, it appears. The bottle is picked up, and a shot poured, as he exhales a drag of smoke, away from the doctor. "Ever have one of those days?" It's a conversational tone.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana scoots her glass toward her with a gloved hand. She blinks back to the stranger. Is he.. talking to her? Odd.. She seems taken back. "I've.. had several classificationss of days, dear. You'll have to be more specific."

Aerin Thomas: "You know. One of THOSE days." He takes a drag. "The days you really, REALLY should have just stayed in bed. And possibly smothered yourself with your pillow."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana thinks for a second, then shakes her head "Staying in bed would be horrible unproductive." She runs her gloved finger along the edge of the bar, blatanly checking its cleanliness.

Aerin Thomas: "You'd think so, wouldn't you?" He smirks a little bit. "Haven't you ever had those days where you end up taking a big ol' step backward, but if you'd just slept the day through, you'd have not had the backsliding in the first place?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana thinks for a second with a confused look to the man. Maybe he was drunk. She looks down to her glove with a tiny nod to herself before taking her glass to her mouth in a tiny sip, careful not to get any on herself. "I'm.. not quite sure what you're talking about, dear. I ensure that everyday is in someway productive. Even if i'm unhappy with the results."

Aerin Thomas: He shrugs a bit. "Ah, well. Maybe it's just me, then." He looks over at the great care she's taking and shrugs it off, taking another shot.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana sets the glass back in the ring with a glance to the man beside her. "So, I take it things have not been going your way?"

Aerin Thomas: "Yooouuuu could say that." He nods, cigarette butt going back between his lips. "Yeah."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana winces at the scent of smoke, taking another sip from her drink. She gives another hesitant look to the man, unsure of what she's supposted to say in this type of situation. She wings it. "If you'd like to.. You can converse with me. I won't be bothered."

Robert Truman: * The man ducks inside from off the street and makes his way slowly for the bar. *

Robert Truman: * He is a stern looking man in his mid to late thirties with salt and pepper hair worn in a high and tight and dark brown eyes. The skin is tan and marked here and there with the puckers of old wounds. Aproximatly six feet tall and dressed in a pair of blue dress pants and a matching suitcoat over a white buttondown shirt. A cheap, thin blue tie compleats the image. On his left hand there is a plain silver wedding band and a large graduation ring with a Topaz seting. *

Aerin Thomas: "Well, to start with, work problems," he mutters, pouring a shot. "Boss doesn't seem seem to like the complete and utter sanity of what I have to say, as opposed to his complete and uttter insanity."

Aerin Thomas: d10: Per+Alertness: 4,6,2,8,7,8,

Robert Truman: * He slides onto an open stool about halfway down the bar and settles in. Looking over the top shelf bottles only brings a shake of the head as he slowly closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. *

Aerin Thomas: He glances over at Robert as he approaches the bar, eyes passing over him appraisingly, his gaze even.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana nods to the man, speaking in a sterile tone "Dealing with beurocracies can be a burden. But sometimes you just have to play the game. Find a loophole."

Thomas Judge: The door slides open and in walks Thomas. He looks about deciding in a quick second that this will do. He heads over to the bar, a few stools from Robert and looks at the selection of spirits.

Robert Truman -> Aerin Thomas: {{ Badge on his belt under the coat, and there is a buldge under the coat at the rear of his right hip. }}

Aerin Thomas: "You see, that'd be much easier if the man wasn't insane. Literally. He's absolutely nuts." He smirks. "But it's okay, because it's tolerated in our line of work."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: d10: perception+alertness: 3,3,6,3,9,

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives the stranger a sterile smile. "You should try dealing with the insane members of the medical community. You'd pull your hair out after the first week." She lets her sharp blue eyes scan the place for the first time since sitting, trailing for an extra second over Tom before looking back to her drink. Maybe she'll go unnoticed. She takes another careful sip.

Aerin Thomas: He's already looking that way, though his attention is on Robert, a bit of tension entering his body. His eyes pass over to...oh, great. He knows that one, vaguly. A sigh, and he looks away from Thomas, back to Adriana.

Thomas Judge: ((Bah, am naked. And am sure Rav has brick *curses* *g*))

Thomas Judge: He gets the barmans attention "bottle of bud, an a whiskey straight up eh gov lets settle the night in right"

Aerin Thomas: "I think that they could take a page out of the Insanity Textbook with this guy." He shrugs.

Robert Truman: * He looks to the boy behind the bar. * " I think we are going to go with the Glenlivet, son. Might want to keep that bottle close too. " * His voice is a powerfull riverbottom Arkansas drawl. *

Thomas Judge: Tom looks over to Robert, a freindly nod "Nice taste robin man, 'ard night gov?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: She blinks, thinking to herself. "I've not read that one, dear. I'll be sure to pick it up." A joke? Maybe.. hard to tell with her shrill demeanor. Posture formal she gives another faint glance in tom's direction. A look of dissatisfaction seeing that he's orering so much. That means he'll be here a while. She takes another sip, looking back to Aerin. "I don't believe we bothered with introductions, dear."

Aerin Thomas: He grabs his own bottle of scotch, and pours another one. "Decent choice," he says to Robert.

Aerin Thomas: He extends his hand to Adriana. "Sorry. Aerin Thomas."

Robert Truman: * He shakes his head. * " Not that hard. Just need a drink. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana glances down to the strangers' hand to see how clean it is. She hesitantly places a daintily gloved hand in his, careful not to touch her skin to the man "Dr. Adriana Carmichael. It's a pleasure.."

Thomas Judge: He hands his money over "Fair play, looks like -one- of those nights china."

Thomas Judge: d10: Per & Ale: 6,5,3,3,

Robert Truman: * The man nods quietly. * " Yeah. Inshallah. "

Aerin Thomas: The hand is nice and clean. "And a pleasure back." He shakes the hand once, then rleases her hand. "So you're a doctor?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: (crap, forgot. you can roll per+awareness diff 9 if you have it)

Thomas Judge: He spots the Doc...what the fuck was she doing in a bar, just great. Of all the random bars to walk into, just ignore her, she will ignore him everyone is sound as a pound.

Thomas Judge: d10: Per & Awareness: 3,7,4,2,4,

Aerin Thomas: "One of those months," he says to Thomas. He's a little buzzed, maybe, so he's interjecting himself all over. "Hell, years, now that I think of it."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana brings her hand back to her lap, minding to keep her head tilted so that her hair is masking a good portion of her face. Not minding much to be seen by Tom. "I am." She states coldly. "And yourself?"

Aerin Thomas: "Bodyguard and emotional counselor. Plus I work Security at a club on the side."

Robert Truman: * When the first shot arives he puts it down and then slides the glass back to the bars edge. *

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana nods, listening to Aerin with another sip from the glass "Brawler, comforter, and protector. Hmm.. I have a friend you'd likely get along with quite well."

Thomas Judge: He looks over to Robert again "You wanna be left only mate?"

Thomas Judge: ((only=alone))

Robert Truman: " Its a free nation still. You do what you want. Just dont expect alot out of me. "

Robert Truman: * He licks at his lips and waits for the next shot to load up. *

Thomas Judge: "Woman trouble?" He says downing his Whiskey

Aerin Thomas: He smirks a little at Adriana's assesment. "More like defender, healer, protector, though sometimes it feels more like your assesment. Nice to know I'm not the only one who's career path falls along those lines, though. Like to meet him, some day."

Robert Truman: * He nods at that but does not elaborate. *

Aerin Thomas: "Here." He takes his bottle and pours a shot for Robert. "My good deed for the day."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: She gives a nod, gaze softening.. just barely noticable "He's a wonderful man. A bit troublesome at times, but his heart is in the right place." She takes another sip from her glass "So is work the only thing, bothering you dear? The way you're drinking.. it looks to go deeper than just that."

Thomas Judge: He stands moving to the stool next to Robert "Ain't 'ard to tell, it is always women." He looks to the braclet, and then Robert, but for once follows that little voice that says keep quiet and he does for once.

Robert Truman: * The eyes blink slowly, but then the man reaches out to down the shot before pushing it back again. * " Thanks alot. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana narrows her eyes to the bar at Tom's comment. Just.. ignore him. He's a fool.

Robert Truman: " Yep. Its always a gal. Thats the truth. "

Thomas Judge: "So wat do you do china...wait a tick my apologises mate." He holds out his hand "Names Tom."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana grips her glass with an irritated hand, stepping away from the bar. She states softly to Aerin. "Excuse me.. I cannot sit here and listen to this rubbish." She turns and makes for a table near the corner.

Aerin Thomas: He chuckles a little at Adriana's question. "Let's see. My...well, someone very close to me died, with the perfect timing of happening while I'm in the process of going through some shit with my fiancee's old family. We've had to kind of...get away from them, a little bit. Ugly situation."

Robert Truman: * A nod and then a shake of the hand. * " I'm Bob and I am a cop. "

Thomas Judge: He shakes his hand "So yer a pig eh? Does it pay well?"

Aerin Thomas: He blinks as Adriana gets up and moves to head off. "Ummm...kay." He looks over to Robert and Tom, then back to Adriana. He's fairly sure it was nothing he said...but she didn't seem to say whether she wanted company or not. "Sorry." Just in case. He seems to be good at pissing people off lately, so who knows?

Robert Truman: " Not at all. " * He takes another shot as soon as it is filled. *

Thomas Judge: "Thats a bit shit." He sips his bud "I always thought that by stickin' yer balls on the line they could at least pay you well."

Robert Truman: * He nods at that. * " Its the same all over. Chased you awhile back but the locals got to you first. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana makes an elegant pace to the table, seating herself gracefully. She sets the glass carefully on the table and runs a gloved finger along the edge of the table with an icy glare in thought to herself. Always a woman, indeed. Idiots. She flashes a sterile glance to Tom before looking back to her glove to check for cleanliness.

Thomas Judge: He caught him of guard he looks back to Robert. Don't booast about escaping for so long, don't booast, DON'T BOOAST "How long for, did you chase me like?" Bravo, now don't get arrested muppet

Aerin Thomas: A sigh, and he looks down to his shot, knocking it back.

Robert Truman: * He shakes his head and glares at the tender when he passes him by. * " I dont know. Three, maybe four weeks off and on. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: In glancing down to her gloved finger, she balls it in irritation, eyes sharply narrowed to her drink. Have fun damnit. This is what you're here for. Just.. do it. She takes the glass in a dainty hand and tips the thing up, taking the rest of the mixed drink down with a practiced skill.

Thomas Judge: He nods. "Sorry, about being caught by the locals first." A small grin, jesting of course.

Robert Truman: * That gets a shrug. * " Its all old news now. The girl is dead and I did not have a case against you anyway. I just wanted to question you. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana looks down to the now empty glass, then back to the bar. Damnit.. She hesitantly stands and makes a somewhat less elegant stride back for another drink. Her confidince obviously higher than her tolerance.

Thomas Judge: Blue eyes of the heavens looks down for a moment "I know, I didn't do it!" All said with a serious edge

Robert Truman: " Now that is a strange thing for you to say. What do you mean you did not do it? Dont you even know how she passed, asshole? "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana steps back up to the spot she had before next to Aerin. She calls out to the barkeep "I'd very much like another, dear. Thank you." She digs through her purse for another bill, slipping it across the counter.

Thomas Judge: "No I don't, I 'ave seen the vacum she 'as left in her passin' though, a man can feel sorry you know, even with shit that doesn't invlove 'im like."

Aerin Thomas: A glancee goes back to Adriana. "Sorty if it was something I said. Let me get this one for you." He getsures for the 'tender to put her drink on his tab.

Robert Truman: " Yeah right. You sure was quick to jump to the conclusion that someone did her in though. That right? " * He just keeps watching that empty glass.... *

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana waves a hand in opposition to Aerin, forcing her bill in the tender's hand "No, dear. It was nothing you said. I just prefer not to keep the company of certain persons." her voice low as she makes a tiny motion in Tom's direction.

Thomas Judge: "No I was referin' to wat I was charged for."

Aerin Thomas: "Ahh." He nods and sighs. "All right."

Thomas Judge: Tom ignores the Doc, just like he was asked to.

Robert Truman: " Unrelated. She overdosed. If you think I belive that your as stupid as you look, but thats what the coroner says. Kinda ties my hands now, right? "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana takes her second drink from the tender, taking it to her lips with a healthy swig before turning back to Aerin with the same sterile smile. Like she's forcing sincerity and failing miserable. "Though for what it's worth.. I think I understand what you mean now. About being one of ~those~ days." She blinks down to her glass.

Aerin Thomas: "If you don't mind a little company, we can move away from the bar," he says to her with a shrug. "Not that my problems should be all that interesting, but you asked." He smiles faintly.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a faint nod, starting a stride back to the table she'd alraedy inspected "That would be lovely, dear. Its been.. some time since I've had a pleasant conversation." She thinks with a tiny sterile smile "Well.. one that didn't involve cadavers, that is."

Thomas Judge: He scowls at that but says nothing instead pulling out a cough and offering one to Bob.

Robert Truman: " I dont smoke. Keep it for yourself. " * The shotglass is filled with a shake of the tenders head, and Robert downs it quickly. *

Thomas Judge: He puts it in his mouth, zippo coming round to light it really kind of lost for words right now, "So you sure drinkin' yerself in to oblivion is the way to go?"

Robert Truman: " What the hell does it matter to you? Guy can have a few drinks on his aniversary. Its not a damn crime to do that. "

Aerin Thomas: ((*Beats computer*)) He nods a little. "I can kind of relate, in a sense." He stands from the bar and grabs the bottle, moving to join her at her table.

Thomas Judge: "No it ain't." A small nod as he gestures to the barman "'Nother whiskey please gov."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana takes a graceful seat back where she was, taking another heart swig from the glass before setting it carefully to the table. "I apologize for vacating your vicinity. I.. don't trust that man. Please.. continue with what you were saying."

Robert Truman: " Thats right. Its not. Just one night of the year. Dont mean nothing. "

Thomas Judge: Here you are, sat next to a pig that not only pursued you, but now thinks your a twat if not a suspect, the Doc -Am to haughty for you- is in the corner with a guy am sure 'ave seen before. Just great, just supa fuckin' tastic, take the rough with the smooth, and yer in the ruff!

Thomas Judge: "So I take it if yer 'avin a drink an it's yer aniversary things ain't to robin...sorry gov."

Robert Truman: * He nods at that. * " Yeah, thats what you might call an understatment. "

Aerin Thomas: He takes a seat opposite her, nodding. "S'okay. So...um. Right...I was at my other problems. My sort-of but not-really ex died, while I've been trying to deal with my fiancee's family coming after us in a seriously vicious way. And then I found one of my family members is addicted to some serious shit."

Thomas Judge: "Take it you were 'appy as larry then she 'ad sum different ideas." Voice softening, an understanding there

Robert Truman: " Not quite. You dont want me to talk about this. Trust me. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a faint nod, listening in a cold manner. "Losing someone is always hard. And addictions have the ability to destroy family's. I'm sorry to hear that, dear." She thinks for a second "Why would your fiance's family be coming after you.. if you dont mind my asking"

Thomas Judge: He nods "So you workin' tomoz." There we go, complete topic change.

Robert Truman: " I'm on the clock right now. "

Aerin Thomas: Shot downed. "You ever have one of those situations where you end up involved in something that you know you shouldn't be, and you don't want to be involved, but you really don't have any other option...and because of that, you try do the right thing, end up doing the wrong thing, piss the wrong person off, and all hell breaks loose?"

Thomas Judge: He laughs at that, he shouldn't but he does.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: An odd look of understanding crosses Adriana's face. She nods "If I didn't know any better.. I'd think you were discribing my first relationship upon moving to New York. My curious nature got the better of me, and I wound out learning things that put me quite at odds with some very nasty people."

Robert Truman: * He just shrugs and glares once more at the bartender before looking back to his empty glass. *

Aerin Thomas: He smiles a little. "Curious natures usually do get the better of people, here in New York." He sighs. "And then comes the nasty people, every time." Yes, speaking from personal experience here, it seems like. And then some.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a tiny nod, looking down to her glass with a hint of bitterness in her tone "I fear I might be making the same mistake again. And I hate myself for it." A hint of a texas accent seems to slip through her speech as she drinks.

Thomas Judge: A shrugs as he downs his bud "I can see you need sum todd lemon gov. Nice meetin you Bob, stay sharp now." He turns on the stool hopping off.

Aerin Thomas: He looks up to her, lighting a cigarette as he does. The smoke, he makes sure to keep away from her, though the pack is laid on the table, a silent offer. "How so?"

Robert Truman: " Yeah and you watch your ass, Tom. "

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana takes another hearty swig from the glass before setting it back in the ring of perspiration from where it sat before. "The man I'm with now. If my family found out.." she squints down to the table. "They.. can't find out."

Thomas Judge: He looks over his shoulder "My kingdom is on overwatch gov." A grin as he heads outr the bar, completly ignoring the Doc.

Thomas Judge: He takes a drag from his cough as he opens the bar door and is gone.

Robert Truman: * As soon as the glass is filled again he downs it, then checks out the mirror over the bar. *

Aerin Thomas: He nods a little, a strong empathy hitting his eyes. "Been there. My fiancee and I had to hide our relationship both from her family and from mine, for a long time. Only after she pretty well broke away from her family completely would mine even call her anything other then some fairly vile labels. Even now, they tolerate her at best. And her family...well. Like I said." He leans back on in the chair, watching her.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana's posture remains formal, though her balance seems to be swaying. She gives a cold smirk. "My brother.. would kill him. He'd kill me for the association. It doesn't matter if he breaks ties with his family or not.. it doesn't chance who he is."

Aerin Thomas: He sighs. "I'm sorry to hear that." His eyes watch the woman, expression calm, discerning. "You love him? I mean, capital L love?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a tiny nod, taking the drink back to her lips.

Aerin Thomas: "Then find a way, Adriana." He smiles a little. "Love like that doesn't happen often. It doesn't, at all. It's rarer then almost everything in this world. And if you let it go, it could destroy you. And, if he loves you the same way, it could destroy him, too." He pours a shot, thinking for a moment as he watches the amber liguid enter the tiny glass.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a pained look down to her glass, speaking weakly "I cannot have him killed. It's.. not an option. I've plans to cut ties with him. So that I can seal his survival. I just.." She pauses, hesitant ".. don't know how to tell him."

Robert Truman: * Another shot is delivered and he looks away from the mirror for a moment to toss it back. *

Aerin Thomas: He picks up the shotglass, holding it up to the light and examining the way the light refacts through glass and alcohol. "Shouldn't he get a say in this?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: "He doesn't know how brash my brother and the others can be." She states, pulling the glass back up to her mouth to drain her second drink. She sets it back in its ring "It's for the best."

Aerin Thomas: He looks at her, then back up to the glass. "You know...I've been lucky to have two such loves in my life. Two real, true loves. The capital L kind. And they both loved me, too. Both were of similir situations...I don't have the same taste in significant others as my family does, obviously." A little smirtk. "One of them, she was pregnant. Not my kid...not genetically, though I consider her mine. But she wasn't well...emotionally. She had some very serious emotional issues, to the point that she couldn't care for our daughter. She she gave Tori to me, and then made me leave. And drove far away, where I couldn't get to her." He brings the glass down, toward his lips, and holds it there, not drinking yet.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a pained look to her empty glass, avoiding the man's eyes "Your situation is different then. I'm not with child. And won't be until I care to be."

Robert Truman: * One last shot and then the man rises, heading for the door. *

Aerin Thomas: "My daughter's not the point of the situation. Well, not exactly." He presses his lips together. "The point of the situation is that she did the right thing. She did what we had to do. It wasn't a matter of just us...our daughter's well-being was at stake. So she did what she had to do. And there's not a moment--not a single moment in my life--that goes by that I don't want to go back and tell her that I didn't care, that we'd find a way. If it wasn't for the fact that I so much of her every time I look at my daughter, and that I had the love of another woman to keep me sane, I would have likely put the barrel of a gun in my mouth and pulled the trigger." He downs the shot, then lays the glass on the table.

Robert Truman: *Gone*

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a curious look to the man "So.. you would comprimise the safety of your daughter to have been with this woman?" She blinks back down to the table "Excuse me if I sound crass.. But it seems to me if you love someone.. You'd take measures to ensure their safety. Even if it means your own personal suffering. Some things.. can't work out. It's only a matter of time before my brother finds out about us. And when he does, he isn't the type to think before acting. Even if my life was spared.. I.. couldn't live with myself if he died because of me."

Aerin Thomas: Some strain hits his face...tension, maybe. "I didn't say that. I didn't say that I would have risked my daughter. Never in a million years would I have." It comes out a little defensive, before he lets it go with a sigh, pouring another shot. "I'm saying, Adriana, that I want to go back. Not that I would. And there is nothing--and I mean nothing--in this world then wanting something so much...needing it so badly that you can literally taste it...but knowing you can't have it."

Aerin Thomas: ((is nothing worse--and I mean nothing--))

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana gives a tiny nod, face dropping. Her words soft for the first time of the evening. "It's.. unfair. To all involved that what we have has to be kept a secret. It makes it appear as though I'm ashamed of him, but that isn't the case. But.." She squints to the table. "I suppose I'm a coward. I keep him shoved away in my guest bedroom. Like a dirty little secret. He deserves better."

Aerin Thomas: "Yes. It's incredibly unfair." He nods a little bit. "And maybe he does deserve better then that. But so do you. Is he...aware of the risk?"

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana purses her lips "I.. try not to speak of my family around him. He knows somewhat. But not to the extent I do."

Aerin Thomas: "If you love him as much as it sounds, then you need to respect him enough to let him know about that risk. And take it, if he so chooses to. If he's willing to risk his life for the opportunity to be with the woman he loves, it's no fairer for you to deny him that chance then it is for your brother to get into a killing situation over it. I succeeded in my one love only because I was willing to risk both of our deaths. And even now, with the risk returned, I'm willing to take that chance. And so is she. There is no other option for us. Without each other..." He shrugs. "We'd be lost. Really, very truly lost, forever."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana runs a gloved hand along the rim of her glass, speaking weakly "He could find another. I.. would be fine." She breifly closes her eyes with the smae pained look. Flickering them open, she moves to stand, without the grace she walked in with. "I.. should go. I never meant to trouble you with my problems.. I apologize."

Aerin Thomas: "It's all right. I started it." He looks up at her. "If you want to make him leave...if you truly feel you have to, then you have to do it one of two ways, Adriana. You either have to make him feel like he was involved in the decision--truly involved, mind you, not just telling him what the deal is--and make him agree to what you're saying with his heart and his mind. The other option, such as it is...you need to get him to hate you. Take that love and kill it." The mere thought of it seems to make him ill. "Otherwise, without one of those two options, he'll never leave. Not truly. Even if he were to stay away--which I doubt he will--he'll always be there in spirit, and vice versa. Your shadow will hang over his life, and his shadow will hang over yours. It will be a world of regret...you'll never be able to move on. And in the end, you might as well have died now, when you were happy. Better that then a lifetime of 'What if?' and pain."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana stops, leaning in a standing position with her hands propping herself up lazily. She sways, listening to Aerin. "I.. know this already. He has a temper.. I worry.."

Aerin Thomas: He almost looks...relieved at that. Maybe because it closes out option two. "Then use the first option. Make him feel like he was involved, and make sure he agrees to it completely. Don't try and make him hate you...if you do that, and he hurts you, it will be far worse on him then if he had merely been killed himelf." He sighs. "Although I still support the 'Find a way' option...if you truly feel you have to, then do that. It's the kindest of the two ways to end it, by far. On both of you."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana blinks down to the table "I don't think he would hurt me. Ever. But.. he could hurt a lot of people." She closes her eyes, trying to regain composure.

Aerin Thomas: He instinctively starts to reach for her, to provide comfort...then stops himself. She's obviously the no touching kind. A sigh. "Adriana...all I will say remaining on the subject is that if you love him, you have to believe in him. You have to let him know. Love is worth fighting for. It's worth risking death for, yes...but it's also worth risking living for. You have to decide which risk you'll take...but you can't make this decision without him. Get him involved, or it will never work, whatever you choose." He reaches into his pocket, withdrawing a card with a phone number on it. It's held out. "If you want to talk...I know this probably looks absolutely retarded of me, but if you'd like to talk, or you need someone to help you gain clarity, or whatever, give me a call. I'll be happy to help. And if you think this looks like a crazy stalker tactic, feel free to throw the card away when you get out the door. My feeling's won't be hurt."

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: Adriana takes a clumsy step back when he starts to reach for her, but gains balance by setting a dainty hand on her chair. She listens with a seemingly appreciative nod. She takes the card. "Thank you Aerin. I.. won't throw it away." Adriana turns and starts a swayed pace for the door.

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: (thanks for the scene. *G* have to go to bed now)

Aerin Thomas: He watches her swayed pace with a sigh. "Here...let me call you a cab." He reaches into his pocket for his cell phone, dialing Yellow Cab and putting it to his ear to place the request.

Aerin Thomas: ((And he calls a cab, and all is well...relatively. *Hugs* Night, hon. Thanks for the scene.))

Dr. Adriana Carmichael: (she'll accept. danke. *G*)

Aerin Thomas: With Adriana gone, safely away via a cab, he turns back to the bottle of Chiva Regal, pouring out another shot. The jukebox kicks in with one of his selections...what the hell kind of bar carries the Indigo Girls in their jukebox? This one, apparently, and Ghost is playing

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *A vaguely menacing sillouette fills the doorway.. a last puff before he tosses a cigarette butt into the doorway ashtray.. damn New York and its smoking laws.. his eyes slip through the room, ignoring any going in or out, until the stoic, empty gaze settles on Aerin and focuses. Powerful hands slip against each other as the young hungarian removes black kidskin gloves from his fingers, moving between tables toward a place in the back.*

Aerin Thomas: d10: Per+Alert: 2,8,9,

Aerin Thomas: He lights a cigarette and then glaces over as Invgar approaches. He half-murmurs along with the song, under his breath, as he waits. "And there's not enough room in this world for my pain...signals cross and love gets lost, and time passed makes it plain...of all my demon spirits, I need you the most...I'm in love with your ghost..."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Long fingers twist the neck of the bottle... pale eyes slip down to view the label with a quirked eyebrow..* You were not joking... *his eyes flick to Aerin's* Now how are you going to pay rent? *Perhaps a joke, the Judge settles himself against the other wall, draping himself into a chair.*

Aerin Thomas: He smirks a little bit. "Rent's already paid, an' I'm on vacation pay at the moment...Concerto pays well. 'sides, I'm livin' in a rent-free home at the moment. Jus' gotta keep the rent on the place I ain' livin' in current. Have a seat, Ingvar. Have a drink."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *As ever, Ingvar's hands slip across the surface of his clothing... coat worn just so, creases pressed from fabric as he arranges himself into the chair. Very like a cat, for one who is part wolf.*

Aerin Thomas: "So...met with Gavin." He calls the waitress over with a shot glass, and pours them both a drink. "THAT went well..."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He nods slowly.* Perhaps... yes. *He nods again, raising a hand and flicking two fingers toward the bar. Somehow, he remains un- slapped, a glass delivered to his elbow in time. The Judge's eyes slip back to Aerin as he pinches a bit of imaginary lint from an immaculate sleeve.. one hand slipping across the table to arrange a napkin, then the drink menu.. he doesn't seem to have to look.*

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He quirks an eyebrow toward Aerin.* Combining a man who cares enough about.... anything, really... to move away from his people... with the supposed ruler of said people... *He steeples his fingers- then downs the shot in a smooth motion.. a moment's more consideration of Aerin.. and he pours another, gesturing for him to continue.*

Ingvar Urgahaldt: ...this is going to hurt, I think.. *he smoothes an eyebrow with one finger, the motions of arranging himself slowing in increments as the Judge settles.*

Aerin Thomas: "Let's see..." He holds up a hand, ticking off his successes. He's not so buzzed that he's speaking overly loud...in fact, he's using appropriately hushed tones. One finger up. "I probably alienated Yolanda by making it look like a power play that I was moving for her position..." Two. "Pissed Gavin off by suggesting, perfectly respectfully, that forcing people to pack with those they don't know is an idea on par with letting yourself get bit by a rat during the Black Plague..." Three. "Further pissed him off by not dropping the issue..." Four. "Just about got him to frenzy on me..." Five. "Listened to my mate be called a former wyrm slut to my face." And a into a single thumb on the same hand for six. "And got told I have two weeks to pack up or I'll be forced into a pack of the fuckwad's choosing. Probably one with Jaikula Fucking Freedom and, oh...I dunno...maybe they can bring back Michael Espesito for me."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *His eyes shift, from point to point, between Aerin's face and the hand with the fingers. Other than this, the Judge's attention seems entirely on Aerin's eyes. With the deliberate grace of a ship coming to harbor, he raises the glass again, tilts it back, and sets it back down empty.* He... at least.. said former? *He tilts an eyebrow, perhaps that is something.*

Ingvar Urgahaldt: (("former" that is))

Aerin Thomas: He starts to nod, then pauses. "...I think so. Come to thing of it, I was so busy not kicking his balls through his abdomen and up into his throat that I wasn't listening...he may have said 'fomor.' I think it was former, though."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: I must say... chosing a course besides attempted emasculation... wise choice.. all things considered. *The man purses his lips a bit, nodding.* Might I ask... what led you to discuss such with ~him~? We have spoken about this new leader, yes? *A meaningful glance.*

Aerin Thomas: His shot is picked up and downed, and he starts to pour another, cigarette pressed between his lips. Smoke curls around his head as he manages to pour the shot without spilling. He's not THAT drunk yet...just bitter.

Aerin Thomas: "Weeell...he threw out that I'd make an excellent potential Alpha...you know, since he was already quite aware that I was fucking Wyrmspawn, I'm sure he was totally jazzed about the idea of ME leading a pack. Maybe one named 'Fodder.'" He shrugs. "Anyway, out of nowhere, he tosses out this whole 'I don't want to have to assign packs, but I will if I have to.' Thus began the great debate, where I said something, he got angry and left himself wide open for me to punch holes in his theories...I did, he got angrier, despite all my attempts to respectfully get my point across, since the comment seemed obviously directed at ME as far as assigned packs...and you know that shit ain't happening with me, Ingvar."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He shrugs a bit, mute agreement as he pours another shot.* I am aware.. I cannot claim to understand this entirely... *His gaze slides back to Aerin.* You seem to complicate it, to a degree.. You do not currently lead among our people.. so follow, until you do, yes? We are a people based on groups... I do not see where "biting the bullet" as it is said, is so wrong to do for a time..

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He raises his head slightly.. a glance around before he continues, quietly.* The ~sept~ was attacked, Aerin. By people who seemed quite capable of functioning as a pack.. in the wake of this.. I do not see how there could be another choice- at least until the threat is delt with.

Aerin Thomas: "Yeah." He nods a little bit. "Well, soon as I fuckin' find that mystery person who I suddenly realize I've known for years in the next two weeks, and I don't get assigned into a pack with someone hand-picked by 'Flaming Furry'--oh, sorry, Radiant Fury--to make my life a living hell, I'll get right to biting the bullet." He sighs, sitting back and taking a drag off his cigarette. "But I'm not bitter and disappointed in myself. Not at all."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *One powerful hand turns over in a "giving" gesture.* Of course not.. *pours* not at all.

Aerin Thomas: "We need to look at those strings." He frowns. "There's something about...if the strings are still there, they need to be looked at. Gotta be something significant there." He looks up at Ingvar. "Oh, one piece of information...he's been here for what, a week and a half? And he's quote-unquote 'trying to develop a plan based on what little we have in the way of resources.' He's certainly decisive and quick-acting, isn't he?"

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *Ingvar flicks a finger through the air.* Already thought of the ribbons... I should have information in due time.. *Listening further, Ingvar furrows his brow, nodding his head slightly.* Aerin.. there are those among us who can take a parcel... like the ribbons... and track its wearer to wherever they are within minutes.. this would be decisive.. quick thinking..

Aerin Thomas: He thinks, frowning as the gears unjam and start moving a bit. "There need to be survivors obtained out of this. Someone who can be questioned. The ribbons...that was an awful nice of them, to leave something so easy for us to track them with...and then run down and wipe them out in righteous anger."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He snaps his fingers, and points at his drinking companion.. perhaps a touch more animated than he would be otherwise.. but one can't smell the vodka over the breathmints.* Righteous Anger... I like it.

Aerin Thomas: "Our Elders were killed. Most of us would be charging down there and blindly slaughtering. And I bet it would be awfully conveniant if the proper clue was found by a certain Savior of the Sept on, say, the night of the full moon, when we're a hell of a lot angrier and less likely to ask questions before we have to resort to Haruspication."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: Anything, really... the weapons, the armor.. even better if the Enemy did not actually posess them as individuals- for then, we trace ownership back to a parent company, a dealer, something.... larger.

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He quiets a bit, listening.. then checks the date dial on his watch.. pale eyes slip back to Aerin.. he remains silent, taking a drink before continuing.* The ribbon I should have information on soon... at least.. *his eyes narrow.* I had better.. *His attention returns to Aerin.* Bliss, perhaps.. has the gift. I will check.

Aerin Thomas: "I'll talk to Bliss," he says flatly. "Soon as I get back to my little hideout. He's up there...'sides, he's the one person in this entire city who's not in a pack or joining a pack that I'd trust enough to pack WITH."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *He raises his eyebrows slightly, nodding as the man speaks.* Very well. I will keep up pressure on the ribbon.. continue digging as to the auspicious circumstances of our Savior's arrival.

Aerin Thomas: "Perfect. I'll talk to Bliss...what gift, exactly, are we talking about now? And I'll also...um. Shit." He winces a little as his brain, that's been shutting down stage by stage due to the effects of alcohol, starts to turn itself back on. "Try not to piss off any more Elders?"

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *The Judge checks his manicure.* Or at least wait until after tic tac's, yes? Scent of the Prey.. quite useful.. I have yet to discover who to approach for instruction, or I would have it myself.

Aerin Thomas: "Got it. Yeah, I bet Bliss has it." He sighs, and takes a drag off his cigarette. "I'll ask him."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: Full Moon.. there is not very much time... the.. *he eyes Aerin for a moment.* Recent domestic complications will not sidetrack you?

Aerin Thomas: "Not anymore then a potential attack by a horde of slavering mosntrosities would sidetrack anyone." He shakes his head. "I'll be fine. Right as frickin' rain...you know me." He shrugs. "May need to take a day for our road trip to Finger Lakes, but beyond that, I'll be totally focused."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: This also, we will deal with. *He nods, staring at the man as though brooking no arguement.* The last thing needed is for an already encumbered body to face an issue from two sides. *He rises from the table.*

Aerin Thomas: "Beaut." He nods, and stands up, with effort. "I'd...better go myself. Take a quick nap, sleep it off before I drive home. Thanks, Ingvar. I'm sorry I failed us."

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *At this, he stops... turning back to face Aerin again. His eyes nearly burn with intensity.* You know who I am. Do not use such words as that so lightly with ~me~. Had you failed.. in such a manner as to be unsalvageable, I would not have done myself the disgrace of sitting here.. yes? Sleep. *He waves one hand, as though giving a command unconsciously.. reloading the cigarette holder he favors these days before going outside. A few bills left on the table.*

Aerin Thomas: Most days and nights, he'd argue back...if for no other reason then he never enjoys arguing as much as when he's arguing with the Judge. Tonight, he just winces and nods. "Right. Sorry. My bad." He makes his way toward the door.

Ingvar Urgahaldt: *The two men go seperate ways. One would think, on casual observation, they may well be strangers.. likely as far from the case as New York sees these days.*

Aerin Thomas: And off to his apartment he goes, for a nap, then home.