Post by Thee Independent on Jun 15, 2005 1:36:34 GMT -5
Muse
Middle-class-land stretches on for miles, blocks and blocks of symmetrical, identical houses spreading out in an urban mosaic of pastels and fresh lawns. There is a Super Wal-Mart every ten miles, marking the epicenter of each mini-community. The average American family lives here, removed from the troubles of the inner city, but close enough to take part in the metropolitan culture.
Creekside Drive is just one of hundreds of generic streets, labeled not for importance, but for unanimity. The house titled with the address they are seeking out is one of the nicer houses on the block, boasting two floors, a vaulted ceiling in the living room that can be seen through extra large, welcoming windows that face the street, and a large, green lawn that wraps around the building like a racecourse.
There is a name over the door fashioned out of fancy brass– “Lindsor”, and it is the only welcoming touch to the outside of the well-maintained residence. The mailbox is routine, the cars are stowed away safely within the triple car garage and out of view, and there is neither a welcome mat nor any garden decorations placed sweetly within the trim marigolds that accent the base of the house.
The place is sterile, impersonal, and fresh.
Colin Nicholson
Colin eased his car into the driveway keeping an eye out for any guards or cameras, and most especially...dogs. Paulie had been lecturing him almost the entire time about keeping his temper, playing it cool, all kinds of shit like that.
"Jesus Paulie! I said I'm sorry! For Chrissakes, I was about to get some ass when you called me! I mean you gave me the fuckin' night off!"
"OK, so you're sayin' you don't know who these guys are, but they run the dog fights, and you think they made that dog. Which means they're one a' you. They what...one of them families? Like you, the uhh..." he snapped his fingers two or three times to jar his memory. "Venture! Right? OK, I'll just shut up and play it cool OK? I'm calm now, seriously. It's just y'know my girl, that dog, that asshole we're doin' this favor for, it just got to me that's all. I'll shut up, I won't flex at all. OK?" he brought the car to a stop, not too far from the entrance, and if he pulled it right he could probably cut through the lawn to turn around in a hurry. He then pulled out his Glock and chambered a round, just in case. Finally he reached under the seat to pull out a sawed off pool cue, one end capped by plaster, just in case. As he got out of the car he proceeded to stick the club into his pocket, the pants having been tailored to hold and conceal it.
Paulie Quin
Paulie sighed in just a touch of frustration after Colin's little snit. However it was more frustration at himself, he could have taken steps to avoid some of the trouble, and Colin was doing him a big favor. That's part of the reason why he didn't say anything as he saw Colin getting armed to the teeth for what would hopefully be a simple meeting. However, he didn't like the way that they left the dog, a pretty blatant thing to do, no way anyone could mistake that dog for anything but unnatural. He made sure he himself was still carrying his gun and club and that they were hidden.
"That's 'Ventrue'. And don't be dropping that name so flip either. It's like showing your 'down' card know what I mean? I always try to keep that out of casual conversation, some times they get upset y'know? OK, I was a little rough tonight, and I gave you the night off I know. But yeah, do what you said, just take it easy. You got my back. If things go bad we bust out fast, OK?" Paulie looks around for Connor. "What did we lose him or something?" he says as he gets out of the and puts his glasses on.
--> From Every Big City Has One
Connor McManus
Connor parked a block away and walked towards Paulie and Colin, 'Bus at his side, he didn't want to attract too much attention in this neighborhood and his car's engine tended to do just that. He catches up to Paulie as he gets out of Colin's car. "You want to do the talking I presume?"
--> From Every Big City Has One
Paulie Quin
Paulie gets his glasses on and almost as soon as he does he sees Connor walking up with his dog.
"Ah! There you are. Yeah. Let me do the talking, I'll introduce you and we'll see where we go from there. Like I was saying back at the warehouse, I think this guy's one of us, or someone involved is, so we gotta tread carefully OK? Let's do this." says Paulie as he turns and heads for the door to the house.
Muse
Paulie steps up onto the clean swept porch and takes stock of the entryway, just in case he might need to make a hasty exit. There is an untarnished brass knocker set into the alabaster door and a doorbell to the left. The place feels somehow as though it is the kind to have heavy secret surveillance, but there is nothing visible to either vampire. Not even a warning sticker placed strategically just in view of all visitors, like those that can often be found on the easy to break into homes of the lower middle class. It is a statement about the owner that is subtle enough that neither man might even pick it up.
And there is no welcome mat.
Paulie Quin
Paulie gives the door and facade of the house one more look over, to see if they're being watched in person, if there are any faces he might notice. Still seeing nothing he takes off his glasses and puts them in his shirt pocket, straightens out his jacket and then picks up the door knocker and raps three times on it.
Lorel Dominguez
The solid crack of metal upon wood echoes through the house audibly, even from the outside. They are not left waiting long before they hear footsteps tapping curtly across a wooden floor and the door swings open wide, revealing a handsome man who’s dark skin and wavy hair speak of South America, but the rich chocolate of his keen eyes and the high cheek bones beneath them curve the first impression towards the richer Spanish culture an ocean away.
He is wearing tan slacks and a formal white dress shirt, cuff links and all, as if he was about to step out. His right hand settles above his head on the doorframe as he leans forward to see his visitors and asks, “Yes? How might I help you?” He has a strong European accent, as if he has only recently migrated. Perhaps that is why the house seems so unused. Looking beyond him into the living room, they see simple furniture and decorations. The man definitely does not live with a woman.
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles at the nice welcome and the obvious taste of the host, and does a qucik turn and nod to both Colin and Connor as if to say "You better not fuck this up!" before turning back to the man at the door.
"Hi! Name's Paulie, Paulie Quin. My associates and I, we found a little something left...behind, and we thought it might belong to you. A dog named...Spirit?" Paulie pauses to see any reaction from him. "He was really in no condition for us to do much for him, poor thing, but we thought maybe we could look up the owner or at least the last address from a dog collar we found there. Y'know, out in a warehouse in Chinatown?"
"If I got the wrong place just let me know, we'll be on our way. But if we do have the right place...well if you don't mind then we might have some business to discuss. If you got the time of course."
Lorel Dominguez
The Spaniard blinks slowly, a little surprised by Paulie's openness, and looks beyond him towards Connor and Colin. His intuitive gaze fixes on Bus and Paulie can tell that he is sizing the dog up as much as the men on his doorstep. He smiles and nods, bringing his other hand up to rub at the five-o-clock shadow on his chin and jaw line. “Won’t you come in? Your dog can wait in the backyard.” He steps back and swings his right hand out, inviting them indoors. He does not show any concern for his own safety, even though he could easily be out powered by his company.
As they enter his house, he closes the door behind them without locking it and then leads Connor through a hallway to the right of the living room and back past the kitchen to a sliding glass door that opens onto a decent sized backyard. There is no grass and no plants of any kind, instead having been replaced by sensible stones set in grey and red patterns.
While they are attending to the dog, Paulie has plenty of time to look about his surroundings. There is no one else present and no sign of any animals. The man's Caribbean taste is apparent in the murals hung on the walls and the imported furniture. Still, there is nothing decadent about the place, beyond its size. It is hard to tell if the man actually spends any amount of time in the house, though, because it is immaculate. The floor is completely wooden, including the stairs that lead up to the bedrooms, and the kitchen is tiled with blue tinted granite.
Colin Nicholson
"Jeez ya' just move in or somethin'?" Colin mutters under his breath. Something seemed strange about this guy, other than he lived in a big house with practically no furniture. He kept an eye out at the corners, seeing if there were others here, or some kind of security system. He also counted the obvious exits and any closed doors. He kept his hands in his pockets as he did so, ready to dance if needed.
Connor McManus
"Thank you," Connor says to the well-dressed man then turns to 'Bus as he goes outside, "Hang tight here, okay?"
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel leads Connor back into the living room where the others are gathered and then motions the group into a rec. room that is through a door to the left. There is an expensive pool table in the center of the room, made entirely of cedar and fiberglass. The virid felt on the table is a little faded with use where the cue ball often rests and this is the first indication of use in the house. There is a rack resting against one wall where several finely crafted pool sticks are held, along with a chalk board with a month’s worth of win’s etched onto it.
The master of the house seats himself in the deep bowl one of the three brown leather chairs set about the pool table, resting his elbows on the arms and folding his hands across his chest, waiting for the others to situate themselves. The walls are hung with the abstract artwork of some unknown worker’s oil paintbrush, the colors matched tastefully with the furniture and the burgundy carpet. Once his guests appear to be comfortable, he focuses on Paulie and asks, “You have found Spirit, then? I had begun to lose hope. My name is Lorel Dominguez and I am his keeper.” He reaches over to a small wooden side table and pulls a darkly colored cigarette out of an ornate tin. He smells the rich flavor, looking down at it thoughtfully, and then offers the box to the others and asks, “You did not bring him with you, though?”
Paulie Quin
Paulie takes some admiring looks at the well cared for, and well used pool parlor, and then takes a seat. He does a quick memorization of the scores on the board, and mentally compares them with how well he knows his protege '6' plays. There could some good money in a match sometime in the future. Places like this always took him back to his breathing days; meeting at new houses, stake horsing for a the newest guy to stroke a cue with skill, making big money bets.
He sat down and declined the cigarette, and instead reached into his pocket to pull out his lucky piece of chalk, and stroked it with his thumb.
"Nice place. You probably get some good play down here. Yeah we found Spirit, however, he wasn't in any condition to go anywhere with us. He's still where we left him, alive, but he's hurt. He could probably get fixed up pretty easy though. Just needs some medicine, and some..blood maybe." he makes some emphasis on the 'blood' and then gauges the reaction
of Lorel.
"He looked like he was in a fight though, some old wounds on him. Put up a hell of a fight I bet. He get into fights a lot?" it's obvious there's a second meaning in almost all the statements and questions he makes.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel snaps the cigarette box shut and sets it to the side after Connor and Colin have either partaken of or declined the foreign delicacy. His calm eyes study Paulie thoughtfully as he lifts a fancy silver lighter and cups his extra hand around the flame as he lights up. The lighter taps lightly on the table once set down and the smoothly poised man takes a first taste of his flavored cigarette. He has noticed the pool chalk that the speaker of the group is holding and this tells him a good deal.
Silver smoke precedes his deliberate words. “Why is there such need for so many companions, Paulie, if I am only one man and you are leading your side of the show?” His tone is cordial and he is not being dismissive of the other two, but he has guessed something of their intentions and he is feeling them out now. He makes no comment as to the state of the dog or how it wound up that way. Neither does he take the bait in the loaded questions, at least, not until his own questions are answered.
Paulie Quin
Paulie nods, it'd probably be the same question he'd ask if their situations were reversed.
"Yeah, about them. To tell the truth I'm just a courier really. Maybe you've heard of me? I'm out at Davis Lanes, a...sports speculator. And one of these men asked me about a peculiar little pastime that I didn't know too much about, not my scene really. He wanted to know about dogfights, for no particular reason that I know. Well, being in my business I found out some information about when one such event that was held recently. We checked it out, and happened to find your dog, and so came here. That's the reason he's here. The other guy drives for me, I have bad eyes." Paulie doesn't indicate which guy he's talking about with a nod or gesture, but most likely Lorel can figure it out. "The reason I'm here...well, one doesn't just arrive unannounced without having some bit of recognition or connections. It wouldn't do for a stranger to just arrive at your door. Plus what kind of business man would I be sending potential business someone else's way without an introduction?" he sits back again.
"I'm not listed in the yellow pages or anything, but you might know one or two people who've heard of me, if you'd like to check that out. I understand completely of course. That's why I came here."
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel taps the tip of his cigarette as he listens, sending ash flurrying into a crystal ashtray. He begins to smile as Paulie explained, pleased that he had guessed correctly. His gaze falls then on Connor and Colin, seeking out details. Despite Paulie’s expectation, he does not see a good deal of difference between the two as of yet. He would bet his money on Connor, though, simply because he brought his dog along for the show.
“No, this will not be necessary. So then, you are interested in the business? What is it that you wish to know?” He does not mention the suffering goul again, either because he has already decided upon a plan of action and does not see it as necessary to share, or he simply does not care about whether he loses the dog or not.
Paulie Quin
A slight smile crosses Paulie's face, 'So far, so good.' he thinks.
"Well for the particulars regarding dogfights, not that I'm saying you're involved of course, my associate probably has some questions. As I said, I'm just a courier really, here to vouch for him, for what it's worth. I'll let him go ahead and get what he came for."
"But, I couldn't help but notice this parlor, like I said, I'm an enthusiast. Judging by the scores, you had a couple of guys that could stroke a hell of a stick. Me, I'm no good at the game any more, it's a young man's hobby, and my eyes are shot. I can't draw a bead any more y'know? But I happen to know a young man that can play a game that would change your religion, know what I mean? Goes by the name of '6', ever hear of him?"
Lorel Dominguez
The cunning man rubs at his chin, apparently trying to remember the nickname, and then shakes his head and taps his mostly untouched smoke again. "No, I do not believe I have heard of him. And this," he indicates the tally board, "This is just an honest game between friends." Lorel smiles handsomely, his words sincere, but his eyes mischievous. He seems to be enjoying Paulie's company and it should be obvious to Connor that it was a good idea to let him take the front. Now, though, their host's eyes are on him and he is waiting.
Connor McManus
"I'm new in town and just checking things out, hadn't really planned on making any social calls tonight but then we found that dog. That's quite a dog, by the way, it is yours, isn't it?" Connor asks openly.
Lorel Dominguez
"It is not mine, in truth, but I do tend to it, Sir. It is appropriate that you would report his well being to me. So, you merely happened upon the poor beast? What business did you have there, if you were not searching for Us?" He is just as cordial as before, but his voice has lost a touch of the warmth that had begun to soften it as he spoke to Paulie. He is calling Connor's bluff.
Connor McManus
"That depends on what you mean by 'Us', I certainly didn't expect to find a dog with that particular...'bloodline' so if your 'Us' has any relation to that, well then I wasn't," Van replies honestly.
Lorel Dominguez
The corners of Lorel's eyes spread into deep crow's feet as he listens to Connor's double-speak, trying to ascertain what the man is getting at. He is notably perplexed, Connor can see it in his eyes and tell by how long he weighs his words and it takes him to respond.
“Spirit is a mixed bloodline, it is true, but he is a good dog nonetheless. Were you then seeking out purebred canines?” He snubs the half smoked cigarette out and glances at the cue that Paulie is toying with.
Paulie Quin
Paulie clears his throat a little noisily to direct the attention back to himself. Before this goes too far he'll clarify things a bit. As he's about to speak the room goes a bit quiet, all eyes turn on him as if he's literally sucking all their attention onto himself.
"What my associate is basically saying is that there's something up with that dog. Now you already said that you just take care of the dog, but who is the dog's master? Because I think we need to talk to that person about this dog. Anyway could you steer us in the right direction? I assure you, it's all on the up-and-up."
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel listens intently to Paulie as he regains control of the situation and their host nods, appreciating his openness, as before, and answering in kind. "His Master is an important man, but I think I can introduce you. He goes by the name of Aniketo." Lorel pauses, searching for recognition of the name in either of their eyes and when there is none, he continues, "Do you have plans for tomorrow evening?"
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles wider, 'Nice to get some respect wherever I go.' he muses. Aniketo? Hmmm, never heard of him, and with a name like that he'd remember. He'd have to check that out a bit later.
"Tomorrow evening? Hmmm...let's see, well there's that one thing, but I can knock that out pretty quick, and then...hey Colin? We got anything going on tomorrow?" Colin knows this is an act, so he shrugs and makes a little scowl indicating that it's nothing too important that it couldn't be rearranged. "Tomorrow would be fine I think. Is that OK with you Connor?" he says turning to the other man in the room.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel quietly watches the exchange between Paulie and his so-called driver, nodding as his offer is accepted. His gaze slides to Connor almost as an afterthought, not truly seeming concerned with whether or not this guy agrees.
Connor McManus
"Yeah, my schedule is pretty open these days," Connor replies wryly, a bit surprised that he was even asked.
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles and nods, and then stands up, holding out his hand for Lorel.
"Well then, this was such an awkward meeting for you I'm sure, so we'll be on our way. Where do you think we ought to meet? Back here? Or is there another place?"
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel stands as they conclude their business and answers Paulie, "Well, there is a place that is closer to our destination. Meet me at the Blue Moon Brewery on Twenty Third Street at ten'a'clock. You will need to then leave your vehicle there and ride in my own and I will take you to tomorrow evening's event."
He leads them out of the room now and back towards the front door, speaking as he does, "Do I, ah, need to expain any rules for you beforehand?" He stops with his hand on the doorknob and turns to look at all three men. He is waiting for Connor to get his dog before opening the door for them.
Paulie Quin
Paulie gestures to Collin to lead the way as Lorel is talking.
"Why don't you give us a run down of the rules, more for my associate's benefit." he says as he reaches the doorway.
Connor McManus
Van retrieves 'Bus but listens for Lorel's response to Paulie's request.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel nods and holds up three fingers. "There are three rules that, when observed, will always serve you well. First," he puts down a finger as he lists each explanation until his hand is balled. "Be respectful to everybody. You may not know who it is that you speak to. Second, do not ask questions. Let Them approach you first. And Third, be careful about what you speak of even once you know you have Their confidence. Everybody has a sore spot and you must be careful not to aggravate it." He nods again as he finishes and Connor reaches the front door with his pet.
"Very well. Until tomorrow night, gentlemen. Oh," he adds as an afterthought, the suggestion being so basic that he had not thought to mention it before. "Leave your friend at home, " he eyes Cerebus, "And do not bring any weapons. Not even a sharp tongue." He opens the door then for his guests, smiling affably, and offers a hand first to Paulie and then to Connor. Collin is last for the formal farewell since Lorel does not expect him to be present the next evening.
Paulie Quin
Paulie acknowledges all the rules with a nod, and tries to ignore the very disapproving stares from Colin.
"OK, sounds good. You'll see us tomorrow, and we'll get everything hashed out in good time I'm sure. Let's go boys." Paulie says ushering the others out the door and heading to Colin's car. "Connor, why don't we meet at my place tomorrow again, and we'll go from there."
Once they're in Colin's car Paulie turns to Colin and holds up a hand, already knowing that he doesn't like the idea of going in naked. "I know. Now listen, you bring everything you normally do but leave it in the car. When we're there, you don't flex or anything. But if I tell you that I forgot my cigarettes in the car, you go and get everything, start the car, and lead me the Hell out of there. I want you to wear your beeper again. I'll put you it on speed dial for now. If I hit that beeper, then you drop everything and you get me out of there. If that beeper hits you forget everything I told you about not showing off, and get me out of there, OK? But I doubt it'll come to that. Don't worry."
He waves back to Connor and mumbles to Colin "And don't worry too much about getting our friend out of there either if something goes wrong. Let's get my car and go home." he says as Colin pulls out with a slight smile on his face, his first since he left his girlfriend's house.
--> To Bowling for Turkeys
Connor McManus
"Tomorrow then," Connor says to Paulie and gets in his car firing its engine loudly and waiting a moment while it quiets down before rumbling out of the neighborhood and aiming his car home.
--> To Bowling for Turkeys
Middle-class-land stretches on for miles, blocks and blocks of symmetrical, identical houses spreading out in an urban mosaic of pastels and fresh lawns. There is a Super Wal-Mart every ten miles, marking the epicenter of each mini-community. The average American family lives here, removed from the troubles of the inner city, but close enough to take part in the metropolitan culture.
Creekside Drive is just one of hundreds of generic streets, labeled not for importance, but for unanimity. The house titled with the address they are seeking out is one of the nicer houses on the block, boasting two floors, a vaulted ceiling in the living room that can be seen through extra large, welcoming windows that face the street, and a large, green lawn that wraps around the building like a racecourse.
There is a name over the door fashioned out of fancy brass– “Lindsor”, and it is the only welcoming touch to the outside of the well-maintained residence. The mailbox is routine, the cars are stowed away safely within the triple car garage and out of view, and there is neither a welcome mat nor any garden decorations placed sweetly within the trim marigolds that accent the base of the house.
The place is sterile, impersonal, and fresh.
Colin Nicholson
Colin eased his car into the driveway keeping an eye out for any guards or cameras, and most especially...dogs. Paulie had been lecturing him almost the entire time about keeping his temper, playing it cool, all kinds of shit like that.
"Jesus Paulie! I said I'm sorry! For Chrissakes, I was about to get some ass when you called me! I mean you gave me the fuckin' night off!"
"OK, so you're sayin' you don't know who these guys are, but they run the dog fights, and you think they made that dog. Which means they're one a' you. They what...one of them families? Like you, the uhh..." he snapped his fingers two or three times to jar his memory. "Venture! Right? OK, I'll just shut up and play it cool OK? I'm calm now, seriously. It's just y'know my girl, that dog, that asshole we're doin' this favor for, it just got to me that's all. I'll shut up, I won't flex at all. OK?" he brought the car to a stop, not too far from the entrance, and if he pulled it right he could probably cut through the lawn to turn around in a hurry. He then pulled out his Glock and chambered a round, just in case. Finally he reached under the seat to pull out a sawed off pool cue, one end capped by plaster, just in case. As he got out of the car he proceeded to stick the club into his pocket, the pants having been tailored to hold and conceal it.
Paulie Quin
Paulie sighed in just a touch of frustration after Colin's little snit. However it was more frustration at himself, he could have taken steps to avoid some of the trouble, and Colin was doing him a big favor. That's part of the reason why he didn't say anything as he saw Colin getting armed to the teeth for what would hopefully be a simple meeting. However, he didn't like the way that they left the dog, a pretty blatant thing to do, no way anyone could mistake that dog for anything but unnatural. He made sure he himself was still carrying his gun and club and that they were hidden.
"That's 'Ventrue'. And don't be dropping that name so flip either. It's like showing your 'down' card know what I mean? I always try to keep that out of casual conversation, some times they get upset y'know? OK, I was a little rough tonight, and I gave you the night off I know. But yeah, do what you said, just take it easy. You got my back. If things go bad we bust out fast, OK?" Paulie looks around for Connor. "What did we lose him or something?" he says as he gets out of the and puts his glasses on.
--> From Every Big City Has One
Connor McManus
Connor parked a block away and walked towards Paulie and Colin, 'Bus at his side, he didn't want to attract too much attention in this neighborhood and his car's engine tended to do just that. He catches up to Paulie as he gets out of Colin's car. "You want to do the talking I presume?"
--> From Every Big City Has One
Paulie Quin
Paulie gets his glasses on and almost as soon as he does he sees Connor walking up with his dog.
"Ah! There you are. Yeah. Let me do the talking, I'll introduce you and we'll see where we go from there. Like I was saying back at the warehouse, I think this guy's one of us, or someone involved is, so we gotta tread carefully OK? Let's do this." says Paulie as he turns and heads for the door to the house.
Muse
Paulie steps up onto the clean swept porch and takes stock of the entryway, just in case he might need to make a hasty exit. There is an untarnished brass knocker set into the alabaster door and a doorbell to the left. The place feels somehow as though it is the kind to have heavy secret surveillance, but there is nothing visible to either vampire. Not even a warning sticker placed strategically just in view of all visitors, like those that can often be found on the easy to break into homes of the lower middle class. It is a statement about the owner that is subtle enough that neither man might even pick it up.
And there is no welcome mat.
Paulie Quin
Paulie gives the door and facade of the house one more look over, to see if they're being watched in person, if there are any faces he might notice. Still seeing nothing he takes off his glasses and puts them in his shirt pocket, straightens out his jacket and then picks up the door knocker and raps three times on it.
Lorel Dominguez
The solid crack of metal upon wood echoes through the house audibly, even from the outside. They are not left waiting long before they hear footsteps tapping curtly across a wooden floor and the door swings open wide, revealing a handsome man who’s dark skin and wavy hair speak of South America, but the rich chocolate of his keen eyes and the high cheek bones beneath them curve the first impression towards the richer Spanish culture an ocean away.
He is wearing tan slacks and a formal white dress shirt, cuff links and all, as if he was about to step out. His right hand settles above his head on the doorframe as he leans forward to see his visitors and asks, “Yes? How might I help you?” He has a strong European accent, as if he has only recently migrated. Perhaps that is why the house seems so unused. Looking beyond him into the living room, they see simple furniture and decorations. The man definitely does not live with a woman.
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles at the nice welcome and the obvious taste of the host, and does a qucik turn and nod to both Colin and Connor as if to say "You better not fuck this up!" before turning back to the man at the door.
"Hi! Name's Paulie, Paulie Quin. My associates and I, we found a little something left...behind, and we thought it might belong to you. A dog named...Spirit?" Paulie pauses to see any reaction from him. "He was really in no condition for us to do much for him, poor thing, but we thought maybe we could look up the owner or at least the last address from a dog collar we found there. Y'know, out in a warehouse in Chinatown?"
"If I got the wrong place just let me know, we'll be on our way. But if we do have the right place...well if you don't mind then we might have some business to discuss. If you got the time of course."
Lorel Dominguez
The Spaniard blinks slowly, a little surprised by Paulie's openness, and looks beyond him towards Connor and Colin. His intuitive gaze fixes on Bus and Paulie can tell that he is sizing the dog up as much as the men on his doorstep. He smiles and nods, bringing his other hand up to rub at the five-o-clock shadow on his chin and jaw line. “Won’t you come in? Your dog can wait in the backyard.” He steps back and swings his right hand out, inviting them indoors. He does not show any concern for his own safety, even though he could easily be out powered by his company.
As they enter his house, he closes the door behind them without locking it and then leads Connor through a hallway to the right of the living room and back past the kitchen to a sliding glass door that opens onto a decent sized backyard. There is no grass and no plants of any kind, instead having been replaced by sensible stones set in grey and red patterns.
While they are attending to the dog, Paulie has plenty of time to look about his surroundings. There is no one else present and no sign of any animals. The man's Caribbean taste is apparent in the murals hung on the walls and the imported furniture. Still, there is nothing decadent about the place, beyond its size. It is hard to tell if the man actually spends any amount of time in the house, though, because it is immaculate. The floor is completely wooden, including the stairs that lead up to the bedrooms, and the kitchen is tiled with blue tinted granite.
Colin Nicholson
"Jeez ya' just move in or somethin'?" Colin mutters under his breath. Something seemed strange about this guy, other than he lived in a big house with practically no furniture. He kept an eye out at the corners, seeing if there were others here, or some kind of security system. He also counted the obvious exits and any closed doors. He kept his hands in his pockets as he did so, ready to dance if needed.
Connor McManus
"Thank you," Connor says to the well-dressed man then turns to 'Bus as he goes outside, "Hang tight here, okay?"
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel leads Connor back into the living room where the others are gathered and then motions the group into a rec. room that is through a door to the left. There is an expensive pool table in the center of the room, made entirely of cedar and fiberglass. The virid felt on the table is a little faded with use where the cue ball often rests and this is the first indication of use in the house. There is a rack resting against one wall where several finely crafted pool sticks are held, along with a chalk board with a month’s worth of win’s etched onto it.
The master of the house seats himself in the deep bowl one of the three brown leather chairs set about the pool table, resting his elbows on the arms and folding his hands across his chest, waiting for the others to situate themselves. The walls are hung with the abstract artwork of some unknown worker’s oil paintbrush, the colors matched tastefully with the furniture and the burgundy carpet. Once his guests appear to be comfortable, he focuses on Paulie and asks, “You have found Spirit, then? I had begun to lose hope. My name is Lorel Dominguez and I am his keeper.” He reaches over to a small wooden side table and pulls a darkly colored cigarette out of an ornate tin. He smells the rich flavor, looking down at it thoughtfully, and then offers the box to the others and asks, “You did not bring him with you, though?”
Paulie Quin
Paulie takes some admiring looks at the well cared for, and well used pool parlor, and then takes a seat. He does a quick memorization of the scores on the board, and mentally compares them with how well he knows his protege '6' plays. There could some good money in a match sometime in the future. Places like this always took him back to his breathing days; meeting at new houses, stake horsing for a the newest guy to stroke a cue with skill, making big money bets.
He sat down and declined the cigarette, and instead reached into his pocket to pull out his lucky piece of chalk, and stroked it with his thumb.
"Nice place. You probably get some good play down here. Yeah we found Spirit, however, he wasn't in any condition to go anywhere with us. He's still where we left him, alive, but he's hurt. He could probably get fixed up pretty easy though. Just needs some medicine, and some..blood maybe." he makes some emphasis on the 'blood' and then gauges the reaction
of Lorel.
"He looked like he was in a fight though, some old wounds on him. Put up a hell of a fight I bet. He get into fights a lot?" it's obvious there's a second meaning in almost all the statements and questions he makes.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel snaps the cigarette box shut and sets it to the side after Connor and Colin have either partaken of or declined the foreign delicacy. His calm eyes study Paulie thoughtfully as he lifts a fancy silver lighter and cups his extra hand around the flame as he lights up. The lighter taps lightly on the table once set down and the smoothly poised man takes a first taste of his flavored cigarette. He has noticed the pool chalk that the speaker of the group is holding and this tells him a good deal.
Silver smoke precedes his deliberate words. “Why is there such need for so many companions, Paulie, if I am only one man and you are leading your side of the show?” His tone is cordial and he is not being dismissive of the other two, but he has guessed something of their intentions and he is feeling them out now. He makes no comment as to the state of the dog or how it wound up that way. Neither does he take the bait in the loaded questions, at least, not until his own questions are answered.
Paulie Quin
Paulie nods, it'd probably be the same question he'd ask if their situations were reversed.
"Yeah, about them. To tell the truth I'm just a courier really. Maybe you've heard of me? I'm out at Davis Lanes, a...sports speculator. And one of these men asked me about a peculiar little pastime that I didn't know too much about, not my scene really. He wanted to know about dogfights, for no particular reason that I know. Well, being in my business I found out some information about when one such event that was held recently. We checked it out, and happened to find your dog, and so came here. That's the reason he's here. The other guy drives for me, I have bad eyes." Paulie doesn't indicate which guy he's talking about with a nod or gesture, but most likely Lorel can figure it out. "The reason I'm here...well, one doesn't just arrive unannounced without having some bit of recognition or connections. It wouldn't do for a stranger to just arrive at your door. Plus what kind of business man would I be sending potential business someone else's way without an introduction?" he sits back again.
"I'm not listed in the yellow pages or anything, but you might know one or two people who've heard of me, if you'd like to check that out. I understand completely of course. That's why I came here."
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel taps the tip of his cigarette as he listens, sending ash flurrying into a crystal ashtray. He begins to smile as Paulie explained, pleased that he had guessed correctly. His gaze falls then on Connor and Colin, seeking out details. Despite Paulie’s expectation, he does not see a good deal of difference between the two as of yet. He would bet his money on Connor, though, simply because he brought his dog along for the show.
“No, this will not be necessary. So then, you are interested in the business? What is it that you wish to know?” He does not mention the suffering goul again, either because he has already decided upon a plan of action and does not see it as necessary to share, or he simply does not care about whether he loses the dog or not.
Paulie Quin
A slight smile crosses Paulie's face, 'So far, so good.' he thinks.
"Well for the particulars regarding dogfights, not that I'm saying you're involved of course, my associate probably has some questions. As I said, I'm just a courier really, here to vouch for him, for what it's worth. I'll let him go ahead and get what he came for."
"But, I couldn't help but notice this parlor, like I said, I'm an enthusiast. Judging by the scores, you had a couple of guys that could stroke a hell of a stick. Me, I'm no good at the game any more, it's a young man's hobby, and my eyes are shot. I can't draw a bead any more y'know? But I happen to know a young man that can play a game that would change your religion, know what I mean? Goes by the name of '6', ever hear of him?"
Lorel Dominguez
The cunning man rubs at his chin, apparently trying to remember the nickname, and then shakes his head and taps his mostly untouched smoke again. "No, I do not believe I have heard of him. And this," he indicates the tally board, "This is just an honest game between friends." Lorel smiles handsomely, his words sincere, but his eyes mischievous. He seems to be enjoying Paulie's company and it should be obvious to Connor that it was a good idea to let him take the front. Now, though, their host's eyes are on him and he is waiting.
Connor McManus
"I'm new in town and just checking things out, hadn't really planned on making any social calls tonight but then we found that dog. That's quite a dog, by the way, it is yours, isn't it?" Connor asks openly.
Lorel Dominguez
"It is not mine, in truth, but I do tend to it, Sir. It is appropriate that you would report his well being to me. So, you merely happened upon the poor beast? What business did you have there, if you were not searching for Us?" He is just as cordial as before, but his voice has lost a touch of the warmth that had begun to soften it as he spoke to Paulie. He is calling Connor's bluff.
Connor McManus
"That depends on what you mean by 'Us', I certainly didn't expect to find a dog with that particular...'bloodline' so if your 'Us' has any relation to that, well then I wasn't," Van replies honestly.
Lorel Dominguez
The corners of Lorel's eyes spread into deep crow's feet as he listens to Connor's double-speak, trying to ascertain what the man is getting at. He is notably perplexed, Connor can see it in his eyes and tell by how long he weighs his words and it takes him to respond.
“Spirit is a mixed bloodline, it is true, but he is a good dog nonetheless. Were you then seeking out purebred canines?” He snubs the half smoked cigarette out and glances at the cue that Paulie is toying with.
Paulie Quin
Paulie clears his throat a little noisily to direct the attention back to himself. Before this goes too far he'll clarify things a bit. As he's about to speak the room goes a bit quiet, all eyes turn on him as if he's literally sucking all their attention onto himself.
"What my associate is basically saying is that there's something up with that dog. Now you already said that you just take care of the dog, but who is the dog's master? Because I think we need to talk to that person about this dog. Anyway could you steer us in the right direction? I assure you, it's all on the up-and-up."
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel listens intently to Paulie as he regains control of the situation and their host nods, appreciating his openness, as before, and answering in kind. "His Master is an important man, but I think I can introduce you. He goes by the name of Aniketo." Lorel pauses, searching for recognition of the name in either of their eyes and when there is none, he continues, "Do you have plans for tomorrow evening?"
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles wider, 'Nice to get some respect wherever I go.' he muses. Aniketo? Hmmm, never heard of him, and with a name like that he'd remember. He'd have to check that out a bit later.
"Tomorrow evening? Hmmm...let's see, well there's that one thing, but I can knock that out pretty quick, and then...hey Colin? We got anything going on tomorrow?" Colin knows this is an act, so he shrugs and makes a little scowl indicating that it's nothing too important that it couldn't be rearranged. "Tomorrow would be fine I think. Is that OK with you Connor?" he says turning to the other man in the room.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel quietly watches the exchange between Paulie and his so-called driver, nodding as his offer is accepted. His gaze slides to Connor almost as an afterthought, not truly seeming concerned with whether or not this guy agrees.
Connor McManus
"Yeah, my schedule is pretty open these days," Connor replies wryly, a bit surprised that he was even asked.
Paulie Quin
Paulie smiles and nods, and then stands up, holding out his hand for Lorel.
"Well then, this was such an awkward meeting for you I'm sure, so we'll be on our way. Where do you think we ought to meet? Back here? Or is there another place?"
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel stands as they conclude their business and answers Paulie, "Well, there is a place that is closer to our destination. Meet me at the Blue Moon Brewery on Twenty Third Street at ten'a'clock. You will need to then leave your vehicle there and ride in my own and I will take you to tomorrow evening's event."
He leads them out of the room now and back towards the front door, speaking as he does, "Do I, ah, need to expain any rules for you beforehand?" He stops with his hand on the doorknob and turns to look at all three men. He is waiting for Connor to get his dog before opening the door for them.
Paulie Quin
Paulie gestures to Collin to lead the way as Lorel is talking.
"Why don't you give us a run down of the rules, more for my associate's benefit." he says as he reaches the doorway.
Connor McManus
Van retrieves 'Bus but listens for Lorel's response to Paulie's request.
Lorel Dominguez
Lorel nods and holds up three fingers. "There are three rules that, when observed, will always serve you well. First," he puts down a finger as he lists each explanation until his hand is balled. "Be respectful to everybody. You may not know who it is that you speak to. Second, do not ask questions. Let Them approach you first. And Third, be careful about what you speak of even once you know you have Their confidence. Everybody has a sore spot and you must be careful not to aggravate it." He nods again as he finishes and Connor reaches the front door with his pet.
"Very well. Until tomorrow night, gentlemen. Oh," he adds as an afterthought, the suggestion being so basic that he had not thought to mention it before. "Leave your friend at home, " he eyes Cerebus, "And do not bring any weapons. Not even a sharp tongue." He opens the door then for his guests, smiling affably, and offers a hand first to Paulie and then to Connor. Collin is last for the formal farewell since Lorel does not expect him to be present the next evening.
Paulie Quin
Paulie acknowledges all the rules with a nod, and tries to ignore the very disapproving stares from Colin.
"OK, sounds good. You'll see us tomorrow, and we'll get everything hashed out in good time I'm sure. Let's go boys." Paulie says ushering the others out the door and heading to Colin's car. "Connor, why don't we meet at my place tomorrow again, and we'll go from there."
Once they're in Colin's car Paulie turns to Colin and holds up a hand, already knowing that he doesn't like the idea of going in naked. "I know. Now listen, you bring everything you normally do but leave it in the car. When we're there, you don't flex or anything. But if I tell you that I forgot my cigarettes in the car, you go and get everything, start the car, and lead me the Hell out of there. I want you to wear your beeper again. I'll put you it on speed dial for now. If I hit that beeper, then you drop everything and you get me out of there. If that beeper hits you forget everything I told you about not showing off, and get me out of there, OK? But I doubt it'll come to that. Don't worry."
He waves back to Connor and mumbles to Colin "And don't worry too much about getting our friend out of there either if something goes wrong. Let's get my car and go home." he says as Colin pulls out with a slight smile on his face, his first since he left his girlfriend's house.
--> To Bowling for Turkeys
Connor McManus
"Tomorrow then," Connor says to Paulie and gets in his car firing its engine loudly and waiting a moment while it quiets down before rumbling out of the neighborhood and aiming his car home.
--> To Bowling for Turkeys