Ansel is bowed before a statue in the Church of the Children of Zalgo of Wistvale, the shrouded visage of Zalgo, staring down at him. The church was built a few years back, shortly after Ansel's arrival in Wistvale, and the timbers of the building still smell of fresh wood and stain. The statue itself was placed so that the sun hits it from behind in the morning, causing the entire altar to be covered in shadow.
Ansel stays in his position, head down and one knee bent, and begins to speak as if he believes that the shadowy figure in front of him could hear
"Zalgo, god of the Ordered Chaos, and Father to us. As the day begins once more in shadow, we prepare to do your bidding. The leader of the Ebon Tryst here in Wistvale has fallen, and now the time is ripe for your children to prosper."
"We have heard rumors of a new arrival to this city who has quickly come to the attention of those in power, and we expect that she may be more sympathetic then the former leader. The day is long, and the shadows shorten, so now the time for meditation has ended. Thank you, oh Father."
Ansel stands from the spot on the altar, and makes his way towards the smaller altars at the sides of the church, and makes silent prayers to each of these fallen Children. He then grabs a broom and begins to sweep the church floor, preparing for a busy day
Marlena had been awake a lot longer than she would have liked, walking along the street, she realized just how long as the town had only just begun to wake up and become buzzing with the energy it seemed to have everyday. She had a destination in mind, one that kept her moving forward rather than turning back for her home and bed. The church of some religious order called the Children of Zalgo. The name of a priest and the name of the church appeared time and again within the pages Grayell had left in her possession, curiosity and the need for allies led her on the path to the heavy wooden doors.
Reaching for the handles of the doors, she hesitated for only a moment, reconsidering her idea to leave Kiga behind. When she'd heard no sound from his room, she assumed he was sleeping or had already left the manor. The whistle was hanging from her neck now in case she got into any trouble, attached by a thin length of leather cord entwined with her silver chain. At least if he was close enough to hear it. Pushing any negative thought from her mind, she pressed forward and entered the church, her eyes taking too long to adjust to the shadows that filled the place.
Hearing the church doors open, Ansel turns around and pauses in his sweeping. He looks over the new arrival, noting her exceptional beauty. Reminding himself to Order the Chaos of lust, Ansel puts on a broad smile, and places the broom back into its space. He then strides over to Marlena, his eyes dancing with light despite the shadows covering it.
"Hello there, sister. We are Brother Ansel of the Children of Zalgo. We do not recognize you from our sermons and services, might you be newly interested in Zalgo? He has many things to teach us all, and we are more then happy to help you with whatever you need. At any rate, please forgive us for rambling. What may we help you with today?"
He then points over to a small table with 2 chairs in the corner, and walks over to them, holding one out for her. He sits and lights a small candle, but then covering it with a piece of treated cloth, allowing just enough light to spill out to allow them to see each other while sitting at the table
No, he moved easily and silently along the roof tops as she made her way through the town, him keeping an eye on not only her, but everything. He had a job to do whether she understood that or not; and he wasn't about to find himself having to explain to Grayell why she ended up in trouble.
So he stole his way along, over the roofs, through the alleyways, easily remaining nothing but a mere shadow. No one ever paid that much attention. She arrived at that unusual church and entered... and Kiga fell to the ground in a concealed side street.
He waited for the proper moment, then pulled himself up and under the awning of the building. At least it was shadowy enough. Here he could spy on the exchange and be damned sure she didn't end up in hot water.
Marlena watch the man coming towards her, the dark shape coming into focus as her eyes adjusted. He loomed over her and it was intimidating, but she manged a pleasant enough smile and nodded a greeting. Following him to the table, she looked around the church, taking in what details she could.
He acted the gentleman, holding out her chair for her. She settled herself onto it, hands folded on her lap as he lit the candle. She silently gave thanks for the extra light, all the darkness and shadows made her nervous, and though she had knives, Kiga wasn't there to back her up if things went south. She had a feeling they wouldn't, but you can never be sure.
Breathing deeply, she looked up to Ansel, suddenly thinking that though the candle light was better for her eyes, it just made him look that little bit more sinister. Marlena came out here to talk to him, talk she must, a hand lifting to gently toy with the whistle at her breast, she parted her lips to speak.
Brother Ansel, my name is Marlena. I'm sorry, but I am not here to convert or hear a sermon. At least not today. I'm here to talk about the Ebon Tryst with you.
As Ansel sits across from Marlena, waiting for her response, he can see how anxious she is. Most people had that reaction at first. The shadows were not what the were used to, but soon enough they came to love them. When Marlena reveals the purpose for her visit, Ansel is visibly a bit crestfallen at first, but then his smile returns even wider and he looks Marlena in the eye
"Ahh, so you must be the one who had a hand in the fall of the previous leader of the Tryst. We have heard several things about you, as much as anyone knows as of yet. It is our hope that one such as you would be able to gain the leadership, and Order the Chaos before it begins to destroy itself. Before we begin talks about where our allegiance lies, let us first tell you a few things about the Children's position here in Wistvale and in the Tryst"
"We came here a few years back, and have been quickly gaining support from a large number of the younger citizens of Wistvale and of the Tryst. Many in power view us with disdain, but as we follow all the rules, have no formal complaints. We did not see eye to eye with the former leader, as Zalgo does not believe in the slavery or subjugation of others such as they have no chance for happiness. As such we, and by extension the Children of Zalgo of Wistvale, wish to see a Tryst lead by a strong figure, who is either a believer or at the very least more tolerant then the last. Would this be a position you strive for, as the rumors state?"
Watching him, Marlena listens intently. She knows what he and the church has been doing, but she had no knowledge of what they believed or who's side they had been on. Hearing that they weren't particularly fans of the former leader, she relaxed somewhat and her smile became less forced.
There is very little anyone will have heard of me, I've been in Wistvale for merely a few days. The position I have taken up is new to me and I intend to fulfill it to expectations others seem to have of me and more. There are people getting away with things that aren't acceptable and those that will see the loss of a slaver as a new gap in the market where they can make money. I intend to work on removing these people from our society and Wistvale, or at least put them in the hands of the Sentinel. But I can not do it alone.
I've read what you've done, the previous leader did keep notes on what he could. Brother Ansel, what you do for the Tryst, the safe house and such, is something I'd very much like you to keep doing. I may not be interested in becoming a part of your church, to be honest, I'm not one to join any church, but with the amount of people you have passing through those doors, I'm sure you hear much information. I'm more than happy to aid you and your cause, if you are willing to do the same for me.
Ansel smiles and nods, clearly pleased with what he was hearing
"That sounds like a fair deal. We do not force anybody to become a Child of Zalgo, but you might find that you agree with us more then you think. Almost anyone who would consider organizing the chaotic elements of society is already doing Zalgo's work, whether they know it or not. All we wish to do is to bring Order to the Chaotic parts of society. To harness the good parts of them without allowing them to destroy themselves. To use them to better life for all, and to prepare for Zalgo's return."
He then shakes his head and scratches the back of his head
"Again, please forgive us for our tangents. We have a tendency to ramble on occasion. At any rate, we feel like we would be well served to throw out lot in with you, although we do wish to ask why we shouldn't instead support one of the admittedly few more well-known members of the Tryst for leadership? They are already believers, and their loyalty is well known. Is there something you can do for the Children beyond leaving us to our own devices as before? Some tangible benefit for us using our leverage?"
Shook her head as he offered an apology, sitting back into her seat slightly as she thought for a few moments. The whistle was twisted gently between her fingers whilst she looked at their surroundings.
No need to apologize, I enjoy listening. Natural curiosity.
To business though. I've been here but a few days, Brother Ansel and I already hold the leadership of the Ebon Tryst. In a matter of days, I have gained more than they have worked for over months and years . There is no doubt I have people on my side, strength that I doubt others have. In fact, I know they don't have such power and resources. You wish for order to come to Wistvale? For those of the underground, the Tryst to have a leader that can provide order? I have the means to do so.
I won't be losing my leadership anytime soon, Brother. And I want the same results as you.
Ansel leans over to a cupboard while Marlena was talking, and pulls out 2 cups and a bottle of something who's identity is not immediately obvious. Once he uncorks it, however, the unmistakeable scent of liquor can be smelled in the air. He pours a small amount into each glass and then replaces the bottle into the cupboard, making it very clear that this small amount is all that either of them will get. He waits for her to finish her speech, and then takes the tiniest of sips of the drink before returning his attention to Marlena
"While it is true that you have the leadership in name, you don't quite have the support of the people. You have knowledge, which gives you power, but as the third Parable of Zalgo teaches us, even the smallest of people can overcome the strong when they work as one. We do feel that you do Zalgo's work, however, even if you do not consider yourself one of His children. As such, we will give our support to your leadership. In return, we ask that you wear this badge, as it will both show both that we support you, and tyat you support us."
Ansel reaches into his pocket, and removes an iron pin, painted black. It is in shape of Zalgo's emblem, that which can be seen in the church's widnows and signs. He hands it to Marlena, his face showing curiosity as to whether or not she will agree to wear it
Last Edit: Jun 16, 2012 13:19:13 GMT -5 by Marlena
Kiga still listens intently. This man obviously had some sway in the Tryst society, but seemed like any other fanatic - a barely leashed madman wanting little more than power.
But if that served Marlena - and it well could - then so be it. He was under no instructions to aid her in negotiations. No, he was here to make sure she was safe. And she was... so far.
Marlena took the pin, looking over it. It was just a pin, harmless enough on it's own, but it symbolized something. Whether or not it symbolized something more than he was telling, she had a feeling she wouldn't find out.
Her empty hand went to the small cup in front of her, the last thing she wanted to do was to offend. Picking it up, she brought it to her lips slowly, sipping at it, her eyes still on the pin. It shouldn't be a tough decision to make, but she was suspicious and it was playing havoc with her thoughts.
She looked up to Ansel as she set the cup down, placing the badge next to it, the look of him in the shadows still unnerving her slightly.
I agree to wear this pin, but I want for you to keep me informed of anything and everything that you see or hear of that I may want to know about. Deals, meetings, deliveries. Even rumors. Even if it is from the safe house of yours.
For me to do all that I have said, I cannot miss anything.
Ansel's smile widens into a full-fledged grin, his lips parting to reveal a mouth full of teeth that seemed to pick up the few traces of light in the area. He nods enthusiastically and then take another sip of his drink
"Of course. The 'safehouse' means that it is safe from those who wish the Tryst harm. As the manager of the space, it is our duty and right to know what happens down there. And, as they say, the shadows have ears. Do not worry, sister, we will let you know of anything we hear. The Children of Zalgo strive to work with chaos within the law. Introducing order to chaos is admirable. Introducing chaos to order is the quickest way to lose the blessing of Zalgo."
Ansel looks over to the candle and it's shade, and pulls said fabric away, allowing the light to shine freely, causing the immediate area to suddenly become bright and details easy to see
"And now that our business talks are concluded, we need not stay in shadow. We prefer to talk business in the shadow, as it is our element, and the element of Zalgo. Light is perfectly fine for normal activities, and most people seem to prefer them. We are not blind to the needs of others, despite what any may think of us. We might technically count as a member of a cult, but we need not live up to expectations, yes?"
Marlena leaned back then, blinking as the light filled the area around them. She breathed deeply as she adjusted, relaxing again slightly as she looked around, the candle allowing her to finally take in the church and see it for what it was rather than just endless shadows, always one darker than the one next to it. She got to finally take a good look at the priest too as she picked up the badge again, feeling the weight of it in her palm whilst she spoke.
I can understand that, Brother Ansel. I guess it takes time to be used to the darkness in here.
In the interest on starting as quickly as possible, I must ask you what you know to the Tryst and some of it's members. Especially those that would wish to take my place. Is there anything you feel should be dealt with?
Ansel nods, and then brings up one of his rough and scared hands, rubbing his small beard and looking off towards the statue of Zalgo, apparently lost in thought
"Yes... Let us see... Antonio, one of the minor 'lords' of the Tryst, if you wish to refer to them as such, runs a drug ring. We have forbidden his dealers from our safehouses here, as they were too chaotic in their dealings. They do not like to take no as an answer, and force the product on those who do not wish it. He has friends in the upper eschelons of the Tryst, and has been unreprimandable till now."
"That is the largest threat to order that we can think of at the moment, although there are a few dangers posed to your person. Many of the upper lords supported the former leader, and while our support will win you the loyalty of many members who are new or not in direct service of one of these lords, there are few Children amongst the higher lords. Martyn the Bloodhand is in charge of a large mercenary and assassin force, and while he has no direct issues with the church and is not likely to have an issue with you, the other lords have gotten his members to strike on occasion. We have already defended ourselves against a few attacks, so you may want to be on your guard."
Ansel looks back to Marlena, and smiles again.
"That is all that is on our mind for now. If we hear anything else, we will let you know. We look forward to this partnership, as we believe that it will achieve great things in the name of Zalgo"