City Of Souls

Samuel Leo arrived into the bar with a bottle of...beer? What the hell!? Yep there he was, standing there with the few remaining survivors that huddled together in a building to forget their troubles. Samuel usually used prayer, and he still carried that bible, but tonight? He was upset with his father in heaven. Thusly, he had found the six pack that still had plenty of at the church, and was placing it onto the table before him. "Free beer." came the claim from the preacher, as he picked one up, popped the cap off, and drank it deeply. Did he just... chug beer? And he licked his lips afterward with a brief content smile on his face, ignoring the dumb founded stares and slightly angry looks from others.

Eric Caulson was in the bar, too. He'd slipped in here earlier, knowing he wouldn't be able to make it back to the hideout before the sirens went off. At least the bar was usually relatively safe, in his experience. As he approached the table, he could only watch as Samuel slammed down a six pack of beer and took one for himself. Clearly, something was wrong. Eric wasn't one to turn down a free drink, though, and he reached out to take another can for himself. "You alright, Samuel?" the mutant said, before taking a gulp of his drink. He was still working on getting used to alcohol again, and it showed, as he shuddered for a moment from the taste.

Thena had established a good friendship with the person who ran the bar. In return for whatever alcohol and small items they needed that Thena could manage to salvage, she was given canned foods, bottles of water and a few other essentials she needed to survive. Traveling in the night isn't as hard as it for most people. Thena's ability to take flight as an owl made her less of a target for the noxsine. That doesn't mean they wouldn't attack her, though. She's still too scared to try and wander out at night but her delivery ran late. But of course, the second she arrived to deliver her products, the thunder clapped and it seems the night was rolling in much sooner than normal, thanks to the clouds. She dropped the box on top of the bar top and did her exchange before turning to the window. The sirens rang out. "I think I'm going to stay here for a while." She sighed and looked over towards where the preacher had sat himself with some beer. She blinked in confusion. (c)
Thena has never spoken to Samuel, but she's admired his faith from a distance. Thena, herself, isn't sure if she believes in God or not. But it's nice to see someone who's held onto theirs, despite all the carnage that's happened throughout the years. The girl rubbed her shirt and pants to get the sweat off of them. Her clothing is stained with dirt, grass stains and blood. It's hard keeping anything clean in these days. Especially when you live in a tent in some abandoned building. Crossing her arms over her chest, Thena debated on whether or not she should join the two men. Finally, she managed to walk up closer, taking a bottle of water she had gotten in trade with her. "Uhm.. Hi." She smiled awkwardly. Maybe she'll try and make friends instead of ignoring people. It's not like she has many friends, anyhow.

Akaicia senses were alight with stimulation and curiosity for the environment surrounding her this evening - the crashing sound of thunder and the flashes of lightening had always thrilled her, she had a passion for storms. But before the rain had begun to fall, she'd picked up on a cluster of scents leading into one of the run-down bars. Human. She could already hear their voices from outside of the building - there wasn't much in the way of conversation happening, a quick question of concern, and a woman who seemed a little unsure. Conveniently, she'd managed to tuck under the eaves of the building just before the first drops of rain had hit the ground, so she was still 100% dry. Her black lace dress hugged her feminine curvature perfectly and waves of bright crimson hair cascaded in waves over her shoulders and down the arch of her back. She was clearly overdressed for the occasion, but what the hell. [c]
Akaicia gripped the handle and pushed the door open, stepping in from the storm. A gust of wind carried her scent with it - sweet like honey and roses, although to those with supernatural senses, smoke and a hint of death. "Well, well," her accented tongue practically purred as her heels clicked quietly across the floor as she approached, "what have we here? You're all looking a bit grim. Feeling a bit disheartened, preacher?"[d]

Samuel Leo blue eyes turned to look over at Eric underneath that hat. It slid off soon enough, revealing that cropped brown hair that hardly anyone got to see. "Not okay no." was replied softly to Eric, patting the chair beside him as Eric took one of the bottles. "How has your day turned out, Eric?" came his gentle caring reply. Even with his heart-ache of this lonely path he walked, he was still caring for others more than himself. Perhaps it had become second nature, this Christian walk he walked for so long, even the drinking and sinning couldn't get it to stop. He almost wanted to laugh in amusement as others crowded around soon enough, only to leave the quad that joined him at the table in quick succession. The shy girl was given a warm caring smile as those bright blue eyes filled with life with a little bit of sadness in them, rose to meet her own. "Hello. Seen you around before. Samuel. This here is Eric." came his reply to the shy girls' reply. "Would you like to >
sit? You can join me, more than welcome to." And then the Red haired She Devil herself arrived on the scene, in that short cut dress. The devil was trying hard tonight, wasn't he? She looked flawless as she ever did, minus that pale skin...and the fact she had almost drank Samuel dry last time. Blue eyes turned away from her thusly, the minute he recognized that face. "Pretty Snake. It lies and decieves the heart and eye. Begone Satan, you have nothing for me." was muttered in reply to Akaicias question, grunting and sliding the bottle over to her, as if saying. Take a bottle liquor over a bottle of my blood, please. He was still smiling, but it seemed to dampen a little with her presence around. Well, she was damned. So did it matter? not really.

Eric Caulson had taken a seat next to Samuel by the time the sirens went off. Somehow, he just couldn't get used to that sound. Perhaps he never would. It seemed that the approaching night had driven others inside as well, as Eric turned to see two women entering the bar, one by one. Thena was given a smile- a fellow survivor, from the looks of things. "Hey," he said to her. "Come on in. I doubt either of us are going anywhere for a while." Akaicia's arrival was met with a bit more of a pause, though, as he caught her scent for a moment. There was something off about her, but Eric couldn't quite put his finger on it. Was she a demon? Certainly, Samuel's reaction to her arrival was met with a raised eyebrow. "I take it you two know each other?" Eric asked, pausing to take another drink before continuing. "Eh, it's been a relatively slow day. Not that I'm complaining about that, of course. I managed to find some old clothing today. It shouldn't be too hard to get it all patched up." Indeed, he'd laid it all in a pile on a nearby chair, planning to take it with him once morning came. [end]


Thena. Though she's a supernatural herself, all she is, is a shifter. An owl shifter, at that. Her sense of smell isn't any different from a human's. However, her eye sight and hearing is superb. This is why she has several weapons strapped to her body. Though most were hidden, the only very obvious one is the knife that's strapped to her right thigh. When the two of them acknowledged her, that awkward smile grew. At least they're nice about her intrusion. Or what she thought might've been an intrusion. Listening to the preacher man, she looked at him, concerned for his well being. She had eaves dropped in on the conversation and his response to Eric about not being okay, but she didn't say anything right now. "Nice to meet you guys.. I'm Thena." She smiled, taking the seat that was offered. Opening her own bottle of water, she took a few sips and closed it back up, sighing heavily. "I've seen you around a lot, Samuel. You were a bit inspiring. But I've.. Never seen (c)
you so down.." Was that too much? Or too weird? Thena had seen a lot of people and a lot of them recognized her when they needed something from her little merchant stand. Others were trying to sweet talk her into a one night stand. The girl is far too innocent to have any kind of relations with people like that. The second Akaicia walked in, she noticed the grim look Samuel had on his face and the somewhat of a cold shoulder he gave her. Thena stared at the woman, admiring her beauty. Her eyes wandered over her dress. God, what Thena wouldn't give to own something that nice. Pulling in her bottom lip awkwardly, she looked down at her bottle of water, trying not to bring attention to herself. Her hands gripped the edge of her seat as her nervousness and anxiety took over. Clearly she feels a little uncomfortable. Especially with the way the good pastor responded to her arrival.. Should she be afraid? (d)

Akaicia couldn't have hoped for a better reaction from the preacher. Ruby-red lips instantly pulled back in a flash of a coquettishly charming smile, "Oh Samuel," she let his name roll from the tip of her tongue as if she'd known him for years, "you're too generous with your flattery." She was soon at his side, and had the neck of the glass bottle betwixt nimble fingers. She stepped to move behind him, the fingers of her free hand dancing across her shoulders towards his neck. She bent down and placed lingering kiss upon his neck where her teeth had once pierced. "It's so nice to see you again," she whispered in his ear before fully righting herself to then address the others at the table. "We're well acquainted, Samuel and I." She responded lightly as Eric made his inquiry. "Aren't we, darling?" Her hand slid along his upper back as she made her way around him, sliding down into the available seat to his right. "Do you mind?" She gestured towards Samuel with the bottle [c]
she held in her hand, clearly, asking for him to open it. "Thena, darling, you have very lovely eyes." The vampire's own brilliant emerald green fixated on Thena's for but a fleeting moment before returning her attention to Samuel.[d]

Samuel Leo it was like a flip of a switch was suddenly had. The minute that smile came across to him from Akaicia, Samuel felt...a sudden urge to smile back at Akaicia, instead of being all glum about her being there like he...normally would have. And he was wondering what the hell was going on at this moment. Almost immediately did Samuel fall into prayer while Akaicia played her little games, that worked like a charm on poor old Samuel. "Thank you Akaicia." was sounded so warmly out, even if he despised every bit of word that felt like it was thrown up. She could likely feel that mental resistance from the man, but it was also likely heavily weak compared to what it could have been...if God were more frequent. The fingers dancing across his shoulders to his neck had Samuel seething, even if the preacher man was leaning into the touch as if he was enjoying it. Anger was a bad trait, as was hate. But Samuel was already ranting to God. Are you seriously letting me be punished >
for going out ONE DAY to drink because you decided you were gonna play God, and take my CHRISTIAN company away from me!? YOU'RE A REAL PIECE OF WORK GOD. Someone was REALLY mad at the Daddy upstairs today, and Akaicia wasn't making it any better. The kiss upon his neck had Samuel shivering with delight, even though inwardly he was still puking with disgust. It'd never be seen through to the surface. "Good to see you too." Bright smile as blue eyes looked over between the two, chuckling and nodding. "It's my usual greeting to her." was explained coyly. A lie. Thanks for letting me sin too, needed to tack that onto my daily sinning. Wanna add more to it? "But yes, we met each other when she lost her husband, really nice to have company again." Excuse...me. Are you saying you? Shaking his head no at Akaicias question, hands slipping out with him screaming no internally, and popping off that top of the bottle while planting a kiss on her cheek. Aww, look at the >>
sweethearts. So cute. Too bad it was completely and utterly fake. Eric's answer to Samuels question had him beaming. "Any clothing is a rare treasure." Another beaming smile to Thena too. "Nice to meet you Thena! I was just glum earlier because..." oh was he fighting it that damn hard? He really was. That smile didn't falter though. "I missed her. I'm glad she's here now." The mention of Thena having seen him a lot and how he was inspiring truly brought a bright easy smile to his face. It didn't FEEL forced, even if it looked the same. "I saved another, and they left for Heaven. It's a shame to lose others to the flock." hand twitched as he struggled to keep it to himself. But it was slowly but surely, slipping into Akaicias free hand to hold. Sweet Jesus, you better get me out of this bind! In the name of Jesus I plead of you! Mmm Holy Roller, back up might be coming, but probably a tad late. Just hopefully not TOO late.

Eric Caulson had already been introduced, but he would give Thena a smile anyway. "Yes, as Samuel said, my name's Eric," he said. "Pleased to meet you, Thena." He then turned his attention back towards Samuel and Akaicia. Usually Samuel was much more optimistic than this, and so the mutant wondered what had happened. "Hmm... I can't recall ever having seen you at his church," he said to Akaicia. "But I'll take your word for it, I suppose. What's your name?" He leaned back in his chair, still holding on to his can of beer. "Oh, you lost another churchgoer? That's a shame. What happened to them?" Nothing good, he guessed, knowing how rough this city could be. "Are you sure you don't want one of these, Thena?" Eric asked, turning back towards the other woman and gesturing towards the six-pack Samuel had left on the table. "There's plenty to go around tonight."

Thena was extremely uncomfortable with this whole situation. Not to mention, it's a bit confusion. So... The redheaded woman lost her husband? And is now in some... really awkward and weird friendship with this woman? Somehow, Thena could feel the pain.. or is it anger..? That the man seems to be feeling. So she simply stared and watch with no real expression on her face. Thena turned to look at Eric and smiled faintly and nodded, "Nice to meet you." She purred before her attention was drawn back to Akaicia, who began talking to her by complimenting her eyes. For a moment, Thena just started at her in confusion and blinked, "Uhm... Thank you?" To her, she saw nothing special in her brown eyes. Even if they are exceptionally bright for being brown. "You have a nice dress." She felt like she had to give a compliment back, so why not compliment something she really likes? Thena has always loved fashion and she wished she could explore more into it but people want so many (c)
ridiculous things nowadays for a simple t-shirt! The offer of a beer had taken Thena's attention and she looked at the cans, "Uhm.." She pondered her response. Thena was born 2 years after the war started, so she's only 18. And if this were before the war, it would be illegal to drink, from what people had told her that lived before the beginning of this Hell on Earth. She pulled her bottom lip in to be bitten in thought. She's never actually drank any alcohol before. Her parents always told her it was bad and that she needed to be alert 100% of the time. Her eyes wandered towards the window. The pitch black night only told her she's going to be stuck here for a while. With a heavy sigh she turned back to Eric and nodded, "Sure, I'll try one.." She reached over to grab one, looking at the can for a minute before popping open the 20-year-old can. She brought it to her lips and took a sip before making a really weird face. What the fuck is this? It didn't taste very (c)
Thena. good. But she can't really let it go to waste, now. Taking another sip, she set it down. It's very likely it'll take her quite a bit to finish it. But when that alcohol hits? Lord, someone is going to have to help her. She's one hell of a light weight... (d)

Akaicia coquettish smile held its charm as her compulsion and pheromones worked their wonderfully dark magic on poor Samuel - how he amused her so. If it was one thing in the droll wasteland that never failed to amuse her, it was the ability toy with all of those around her while they're were already struggling with their mental perils. She rarely used her compulsion but it worked like a charm if someone was already wallowing in their sorrow. Her unnaturally appealing pheromones helped all the more. "Yes, we met when my beloved Derick passed," oh yes, she used his name just to spite him, she knew he was kicking around here somewhere. Perhaps he was even listening in. "Samuel was the kindest of souls. I don't know what I would have done without him then, or without him now." She shrugged her bared shoulders solemnly and then brought the mouth of the opened beer bottle to her lips and took a small sip of the hoppy beverage, as if to make an inward joke with herself about [c]
how much more thirsty she would be if it weren't for Samuel. "You truly are ones of Gods finest specimens, it was a good thing they had you in the end." She purred towards Samuel as he spoke of someone else passing. Had it been her doing? Possible. But she couldn't be sure. She squeezed his hand lightly and then sighed happily before taking another drink from the bottle of regarding her lack of presence at the Church, "I've been trying to help locate stragglers with a couple of our comrades." By our, she of course was speaking in like terms with Samuel. "My name is Akacia," her accented words were nevertheless charming as she spun her tales effortlessly, "It's a pleasure to meet you Eric, and you Thena." She didn't leave anyone out, as she crossed one leg over the other and allowed herself to relax comfortably in her seat. [c]
"This dress?" She mused glancing down at herself, "And here I was kicking myself thinking I'd gone overboard considering the evening. You can have it, if you like. A gift from me, to you. You can come over any time and take a look through my wardrobe, I fear I feel rather blessed to have been spared that throughout this whole... mess." She spoke in the grand scheme of the world.[d]

Samuel Leo Eric smiled over at Thena and Samuel gave a chuckle at Erics good natured reply to him introducing Eric on the spot. "Works for a friend of mine, Cervantes." was mentioned off handedly. The mention of her not being at his church wasn't responded to by him, at all. The question of the name? Still a mystery to Samuel himself. Surely if she lied this easily, she'd lie about a name just as easily. Thus likely why Samuel had started to call her as pretty snake. A nod was given to Erics question. "I think God took her to heaven....though I am not certain of her fate." was responded softly to Eric. "She was new to the faith." There was a cacophony of emotions truly running through Samuel, though only one was forced to show. Happiness. The cacophony was? Anger, sadness and well...more anger. Her faint and unsure smile had Samuel reaching out his other hand, with a lot less twitching, to place down on her shoulder. "Be at peace child, God is with us." reassured to her, >Samuel Leo blue eyes staring over at her with that bright shining hope in them still. His hand slipped back to his beer, sipping away at it with contentment. "Just don't drink it too fast. Being drunk on wine is foolishness." Least he still sounded somewhat like himself, even if Akaicia hanging all over him like a decoration doll was annoying the piss out of him. Especially since he couldn't seem to stop the want to touch her. God this is nausating. Why didn't you give us better defenses? Ugh! The mention of Derick that she spoke up on had blue eyes shooting to her, but not with an angry look. An admiring look. Which made his anger burn to the core. A genuine smile raised on his face as his thumb stroked across her icy. cold. skin. Her mockery of his somewhat loss had him patting her hand. "I got you, I'm quite fine dear." Fine, she wanted to play acting? Let's act this shit up. Pressing his forehead into hers as he INVADED that personal space. Since he couldn't fight it, go >Samuel Leo with it and see if she backs off? Bad idea Samuel. Reallllly bad idea. "She also goes on supply runs, helps out a ton around the church by sacrificing like that! Such a martyr! I was worried something happened to you this last time..." It was hard to say anything on the matter of her ATTIRE however. Samuel was struggling to try and say something about dressing like that was a sin, was wrong to do, would cause trouble for Thena. But unfortunately, it was forced to shut up, and thus left the blue eyes looking over at Thena with heavy frustration. Okay God, she's about to lead one of your children astray. How about we do something here instead of just letting sheep dung roll down hill, please?

Eric Caulson hadn't really given much thought to Akaicia's dress until Thena brought it up. But yes, he had to agree it was quite nice. Nicer than anything he was able to find out there, certainly. "No, no," he said to her. "If you're able to retain something of what you had before the war, that's got to be a good thing. You're far luckier than I was, Akaicia." There was definitely something off about Akaicia- Eric could just feel it, deep down. But he still couldn't figure out what. "He is a very good man," he said, motioning towards Samuel. "I'll bet most of us have turned to him for support at one point or another. I'm guessing you two have had no luck finding these comrades, have you?" He couldn't help but chuckle upon seeing Thena's expression after having taken a sip of the beer. "Not used to it, are you?" he asked. "I want to say this beer's held up decently well over all these years, but it's been so long, I can't remember what it's supposed to taste like."

Thena most certainly isn't used to the taste of alcohol. She turned and looked at Eric and shook her head. Their comments to Akaicia when she offered her the dress was noted and honestly, Thena is just so confused as to why she would offer such a thing. For now, she remained quiet. She didn't mean to ignore Akaicia's offer but she couldn't help but feel uneasy over the whole thing and the burning in her ears because of the empathy ability seemed to be making things very difficult for her. Bringing the bottle of beer to her lips, she took another sip, listening to Samuel's forced comments about how much of a 'saint' the woman was... And his anger and frustration was only angering and frustrating the poor girl, herself. 'Don't do it. Bite your tongue.' In all honesty, Thena is starting to get so frustrated, that her fear is starting to become void. Finally, she had it. Her fists met the table, making it shake and she stood up quickly, "Stop it!" She yelled at the woman, (c)
Thena. "Whatever you're doing to him! Just stop it! It's burning my ears and hurting me!" The moment she said those words, her face when pale and her eyes went wide. She looked at Samuel and Eric then looked back at the woman. Shit. What the fuck did she do? Did she really just yell at a woman who's obviously much more powerful than she? Oh, god. She gulped and exhaled after holding her breath for a few second. Her breath was shaky. Fuck. (d

Akaicia couldn't possibly be anymore amused than she was right now. What an evening to play games. Her hand was still lovingly entangled with his own - as much as she too didn't particularly enjoying that kind of contact. He truly wasn't her type. But perhaps she could sneak him out of here without raising too many alarms. Then the real fun could begin. Of course, she'd bring him back to his lovely church eventually. She listened carefully to what Samuel had to say - ever attentive to every detail - before she began to play along again. "I do what I can," she admitted sheepishly, "we all have to do whatever it is we can in this day and age, don't we?" When he leaned in closer, cuddling right into her, it took everything she had not to cringe away from him - or to go right for his throat - instead she let out a girlish giggle. "Oh Samuel, we really should be saving this for later this evening when we aren't in the company of others." She teased, looking over towards the [c] other two with a bat of her eyelashes before smiling back over towards Samuel himself. "You should know by now that I really am quite resourceful, I'll always find my way back to you, darling." Yuck. This game was now quickly growing old. Way to go Samuel. She politely acknowledged Eric as he addressed her in turn, "I fear I was far luckier than most, but I do what I can to share my luck." She offered again before shaking her head lightly. "And unfortunately, no, we've had no sightings lately. I suppose my luck is beginning to run dry, and-" but she was cut short as Thena began to shout towards her. Both eyebrows arched upwards with surprise. A hard thing to accomplish with the vampire. It was a matter of seconds that Akaicia had before she could either play oblivious or give up the act and cause a little mayhem. What did she feel like, was the question? Mayhem, of course. She didn't even need to roll the dice. She released Samuel's hand and the beer bottle in the [c]same instant and in a flash her hand was at the woman's throat. "Foolish little, darling," she purred as she leaned in to whisper in the girls ear, "you should learn how to restrain yourself as I was doing in a room full of deliciously fresh flesh." Her lips pulled back from her teeth and she'd skim them along the flesh of the girls neck. But, she didn't bite. She released her and righted her posture. "Hmph, well my fun's been spoiled." Her eyes darted over towards Eric, now, "Unless you want to play?" Her head tilted off to the side in an predatory manner as she consider him for a moment. "What do you say, handsome? You're not quite human, are you?" [d]

J. Constantine's tie flapped against his chest as he walked through the dark, windy night, as usual the only thing making him known in the dark was that ever-present little glow of his cig as it stuck out 'tween two lips. He had been gone for a spell, gathering up intel regarding the movement of both sides. It wasn't like John to laze about when the balance was still so much off kilter. Granted, he would love nothing more than to smoke his existence away and be done with it. However, much to his dismay, that was never his style. The pavement was still slick with rain after the storm. Off in the near distance he could feel them... Slithering about, circling him like vultures. They all wanted him, they all wanted to give him back what he so apathetically dishes out. But they couldn't touch him. For he had one hell of a deal with their boss. And it was only he who could drag him down.>>J. Constantine passed one of the bars he always seemed to find himself in, flicking ash as he went along, like leaving breadcrumbs for the monsters to find. John was here. Heh. It wouldn't take long before he would find another bar, this one in better shape than the last. Was this always here? Damn. But already he could feel that.. Subtle vibration of that dark energy behind it. It was to be expected, given the state of Earth. But when it spiked, he knew that shit might have gotten real. Cig would be placed in between lips as hand would grab the door, swinging it wide open to walk right in like it was his own goddamn party. "Christ they make you fucks uglier and uglier.." John would say, having eyes only for Akaicia.<<

Samuel Leo Akaicia? That was the name? Intriguing. It didn't seem like she had been lying on THAT one. Surprisingly. Eric though, gesturing and claiming he was a good man had Samuel offering another warm smile to Eric. "I'm glad you think so." came his soft humble reply. He didn't reply to Erics next question, hands still twitching in Akaicias own. Smiling over at Akaicia as she mentioned she did what she could. "You do amazing, sweetie." Oh god, it felt so wrong to say those words. Someone. Anyone. Nodding in agreement at her question. The girlish giggle had Samuel chuckling under his breath and leaning back at her "compelled" request. "Of course, sorry. Just so glad you're back." Beaming brightly at her as she reassured him and looking relieved, only to form that face back to happiness. Thena cutting her off had Samuel snapping back to reality and he groaned, rubbing his head as he gazed over at Akaicia with a narrowed blue gaze, only to notice the sudden predicament over >>
someones life...."Take me." he said, frowning as he stood up as well suddenly, gripping that bottle as he gazed between the two. Blue eyes widening once more and ignoring the slightly faint feeling he had as he suddenly got up like that. "Don't...please Akaicia. An-" it was cut off by the sound of a door slamming open, and Samuel turned his blue eyes to notice? Well hell, it wasn't an angel, but it was a good as any. "Thank Goodness you've arrived Constantine!" came Samuels greeting, who greeted him with such a damn bright smile. "I've been meaning to talk to you, do you mind?" gesturing to Akaicia. "I got a free case of beer to finish, and some business to discuss, if you've got the time?"

Eric Caulson smirked at Akaicia. He still couldn't quite believe that Samuel was this close to her, but he would go with it, as long things didn't get out of control. Still, he did notice that Thena was starting to look more than a little uneasy about what was going on. But it was her sudden outburst that grabbed Eric's attention. "Hey, take it-" he started to say, but just then, Akaicia lunged at the other woman and grabbed her by the throat. "Oh, shit!" Eric yelled, springing to his feet. Almost by instinct, he pulled out his pistol, but he hesitated as the vampire's eyes fell upon him. "Not after being trapped in Hell for nearly 20 years," he said, his voice trembling. "You're no demon- what are you, exactly?" As if he couldn't hazard a guess by now. He'd seen the vampire's sharp teeth clearly. Constantine's arrival was only barely acknowledged- that is, until Samuel spoke to him, and Eric looked over his shoulder for just a moment. "Well, you came here at an awkward time," he said, [c]before turning back towards the vampire again.

Thena seriously wished she could take back what she said and act like nothing happened. But of course, the girl is young and has had to learn how to survive in this world since she was 12. So when it comes to times like this, she's not sure how to react. But it seems like the woman didn't take her words so lightly, "I-" Before she could even TRY to apologize, the woman had her in her grasp and she gasped, staring at her. But she let her go. Perhaps Thena should have left it at that, but the girl is in survival mode and panicking. One thing Akaicia did wrong was turn her attention away from Thena and still stay roughly within arm's reach. That knife that was holstered on her thigh was unsheathed quickly and she attempted to swing it right in between her shoulder blades. Given she's short and that's the best place with the least amount of effort to get it to. Whether or not her attempt was successful, Thena's shifting is fairly quickly. With what seemed like a blink of an (c)eye, her body shrunk quickly, clothes falling to the ground and large wings extended. She shifted into a large, white barn owl. Her screeching, deafening as she did so. Quickly, the owl flew up into a high corner, perching herself on top of a sign, hoping that if the woman couldn't reach her, maybe she would be safe? Her attention was taken to the man who barged into the door and her head cocked to the side unintentionally, but quickly turned back to Akaicia. Thena's feather rustled up in anxiety and frustration. Shit and she has to be here all night! She thought about heading for the door before it closed behind the newly arrived man but she hesitated. Too dreary outside and too many Noxsine! Uhg.

Akaicia's focus was momentarily upon Eric as his pistol was drawn, but he hesitated to use it, asking questions instead. "That sounds like fun." She mused momentarily, "I do believe you'll be able to figure that one out on your own." Soon enough her attention was redirected forwards as the doors leading into the bar flew open as Constantine entered, spewing an insult in her direction. Calling her ugly. She loves being the villain. Except for when her vanity is assaulted. That's truly when the vixen's temper begins to flare. Who would have thought that would be the one thing to unravel her composure? Those emerald eyes were dead set upon Constantine now, her ruby-red lips now formed into a scowl. Her attention nowhere near Samuel and his two companions anymore. "You filthy piece of meat," she hissed through clenched teeth as she moved to head towards him, but before she moved too much further she felt a sharp pain between her shoulders blades where Thena's knife successfully bit in. A growl emerged from the woman as cold, thick, silver liquid oozed out from the wound the blade had created. The metal was lodge in between two ribs and out of her reach. Her eyes followed the owl into the rafters and then considered her other company - the fight could be manageable, but the outcome wasn't worth it considering her current state and situation. "You're going to regret that, bird." She hissed towards Thena before swiftly making her way towards and out the door, her speed unmatched by most. Nothing would remain but a small trail of metallic blood. Poor Aka. </3 No one loves her. [d]

J. Constantine could see the others out of his periphs, gauging their auras now that he has basically ran in her like a bull in a china shop. He would recognize the one she originally chose to be her target. "Samuel." John would say flatly, glancing over to him. "Not now." It was clear that he was in absolutely no mood to talk the bible, which is what John always assumed Sam wanted to chat about. That snarl of hers had him smirking inwardly, though his face never reflected the satisfaction. "So I've been told." He snorted, seeing that knife be plunged into her successfully. It wasn't just an insult, no. There wasn't a single vampire he had known who never took shit personally.. Especially if their precious looks were called into question. But that was Constantine, picking out the one thing that could drive his opponent to the brink of rage. And one thing he knew about rage... It made you blind.[c]
J. Constantine was still on high alert, though unmoving as she hissed and cursed at the lot before staggering off into the night. Yep, there was another pair of eyes he had to watch for. Add her to the fucking list. A drag would be taken as eyes would scan the room. "Thought I told you to stay out of trouble, Sam." John's voice would say, not a hint of playfulness there as he made his way over to the bar. Yes, he knew beer was offered but John? He preferred something with a little more kick. And that is just what he grabbed.. A bottle of whiskey, uncorking it with teeth before filling his own glass by the counter, his back to the crowd. Yep, a ball of fucking sunshine...[e]

Samuel Leo couldn't believe the chaos that came through in less than five seconds...but you know...Samuel seemed to just stand helplessly and watched it unfold. Akaicia being stabbed felt like justice really, but it was a damn shame it was a girl who was merely so young and innocent...forced to defend her life situation! He did take notice of Constantines insult on her looks causing her anger, blinding anger and leaving that stab open for Thena to get off in the first place. And definitely? Took note of it. Erics jump up to defend Thena was admirable, but misplaced when he didn't take the shot. And Thenas reaction was more than understandable. Samuel was picking up her clothes one piece at a time as Constantine said that one word and those next two that followed that had Samuel lifting the leftover beer and handing it over to Eric instead. "Enjoy." came his reply, settling the clothes nearby the sign and shifting some makeshift things to hopefully give her SOME privacy. Soon >enough he turned back to watch Constantine move to the bar, not a surprise. But when he settled down in the chair....Samuel shrugged. "Trouble follows me like a magnet." was muttered under his breath. Oh geeze, that didn't sound like Samuel at all. He'd pull out some ammunition and slide it over to the bartender, covering both him and Constantines bottle. He slid into two seats over, hunching over the bar as he gazed towards the wall. "I have plenty of guns, weapons...not that you need them...I think." Blue eyes shifted to Constantine. "But do you? If so, I was gonna offer them up to you." Free of charge? What the hell was he thinking? Truth was, Constantine wasn't gonna fully like it, but he might be inclined to do it..."humanity is out there, lost in purgatory....there are likely billion of souls, just waiting to find a exit...so. If I gave you the arsenal you could dream of, Constantine...will you help me find some lost souls in purgatory and bring them safely > back to earth?" Okay. "Or what do you need? Medical supplies? I got that. I got food....anything you need, or maybe some friends of yours need?"

Eric Caulson kept his gun aimed at Akaicia, though his aim was shaky. He honestly wasn't certain what effects his bullets would have on her. As it turned out, he wouldn't find out this evening, as Thena stabbed the vampire in the back. Except suddenly, Thena was gone, and there was a large white barn owl where she'd been a second ago. Something clicked in his head, something he'd half forgotten many years ago. "Thena?" Eric said to himself. "As in... No, it couldn't be, could it?" Alas, the owl flew away into a corner, and Eric doubted he'd get any answers out of her tonight. As for Akaicia, she too had fled, leaving a trail of blood behind her. Somehow, Eric had a feeling the noxsine might not be such an issue for her. He returned his pistol to its holster, then sat back down to reclaim his half empty can of beer. "I'm guessing she was the vampire you mentioned before, right Samuel?" Eric asked, before finally turning his attention to Constantine, who had found a bottle of whiskey [c]somewhere. "How were you out there so late?" he asked. "That storm must be bringing so many noxsine out tonight. Way too dangerous." Taking the rest of the six-pack from Samuel, Eric would then sit back and listen as he and Constantine started discussing things. "You're not seriously thinking of going into Purgatory, are you?" he asked, his eyes widening. [end]

Thena would have jumped for joy with pride if she weren't an owl. Her hiss at Akaicia's little threat before she left was loud enough. Her eyes stared at Sam as he brought her clothes over towards the bar beneath the sign, watching as he made some make-shift privacy door for her. He wings expanded and she flew down, shifting back and looked around to make sure the man who just sat at the bar couldn't see. After the coast was clear, she put her clothes back on before tearing down the privacy barrier Sam put up for her. She's sure the bar tender didn't want that up behind the bar. She wandered up, still on the opposite side of the bar and grabbed herself a cup, hesitantly wandering over towards Constantine, "Can I.. try some of that?" What? She didn't like the beer, what makes her think she'll like what he's having? Oh, well. Why not? She's trying to celebrate her win. She looked over towards Eric after over-hearing what he had pondered. "No, I'm not the war queen. I'm (c)just.. Named after her." She rolled her shoulders. "I'm far too nervous and skittish to be some kind of goddess.." She listened to Sam's story of what seemed like a suicide mission. She blinked at him. "Purgatory is damn near impossible to get in an out of.. I would know. I fell into it by accident when I was 12.." She sighed. The bartender came around the corner and shooed her back and Thena climbed over the bar top, being mindful on not kicking any open bottles and glasses over. She took a seat next to Constantine, and if he had poured her that glass, she took a small sip. (d)

J. Constantine was fully content with drinking in solitude now that the headache left. It wouldn't be until those bullets were placed on the bar to pay for his drink, did Constantine look up at Sam. Well, looks like he bought a bit of focus from the man. Not a word came from the ever-stoic John as Sam would offer up weapons. He knew there was a catch to this.. There always was. But wait! There's more! Always.. There. Is. More. Sure as shit, he detailed the mission. Eric's question would be ignored for now as he might be actually considering this.. ridiculous mission. It would be then that he would shamelessly exhale a plume of smoke in the holy man's face. "Purgatory." Suddenly he preferred the company of the imps down the street. "Those who are in Purgatory have either been banished there for a reason, or they caught a bad day and stumbled into it. In which case, I blame Darwin's Theory."[c]
J. Constantine would bring science into a conversation with somebody who believed God created all. And also in a roundabout way, insult the one who wanted whiskey, not intentionally, but he wasn't going to correct himself. Because that was the smartass John Constantine has always been. And so very charming. Hand would pour her some, yes. Before turning back to Sam. "You know the saying what doesn't kill you makes you stronger?" John would say, taking another drag of his cig as he would peer over to Sam. "That doesn't fucking exist where you want to go. If it doesn't kill you, it will make you lose your sense of self to a point where you wish it did." For a moment, he just shook his head and looked forward. But even John had a conscious. And that look on Sam's face.. The one that just screamed for help.. How much he was willing to part with to get a few measely souls back. "You got connections with any of them?"[e]

Samuel Leo as Eric settled down when the situation finally...err...sort of settled, Samuel would shift his gaze to regard him briefly as he handed him the beer. A nod answered his first question. "Had me under some kind of...compulsion spell." was grumbled in reply. The question to Constantine...well he'd let Constantine handle that question. Because Samuel himself didn't know how the man did it, but he did. And he simply let it be just that, fact. Constantine could handle it. Period. Thena and Erics doubt...was ignored for the moment. Because in all seriousness, no, he'd not consider going to purgatory....without Constantine. But WITH Constantine? More likely to succeed, less chances of dying or becoming...insane. Sameul had already figured the young girl was simply named after her, and didn't question anything but. "Are you okay, Thena?" to her when she joined them, not wishing to disturb her from her celebration or what might be a mixture of that and calming her nerves >down. Constantines surprised look had Samuel smiling warmly at him in reply. The one word reply after he finished his "confession"...had Samuel sure he had the man...somewhat inclined to listen. The smoke didn't bother him, he simply waved it past his face as he nodded, listening to what Constantine spoke matter of factly about it. A amused smile actual flitted across his face as Constantine purposely mentioned Darwins Theory, but said nothing on the matter. Was there a slight chuckle? Maybe just a tad. It was good timing for a joke, no one could deny Constantine that. Another nod as Constantine asked that question, which had Samuel still staring over at him pleadingly despite with those blue eyes. The question had Samuel nodding again. "I do have a list compiled up of residents that have been in the church....just to see if they are there...maybe bring them back since they only recently got in there. Obviously the ones too far gone, is not a optimal choice. we >want ones we can save, Constantine...we want ones we can give a second chance to. Isn't that a worthy cause to fight for? For humanity?" was pressed. "I got plenty of guns, ammunition...half of it can be yours. If you just take this mission and go with it on me. Please. We need a reliable escort." And you couldn't have chosen better. Samuel might be a holy roller, but at least he wasn't a DUMB holy roller. Insane? Sure. Dumb? I don't think so...

Eric Caulson downed the last of his beer, but thought better about opening up another can tonight. Probably better to save that for another time. "Hmm, that would explain it," he said to Samuel, in regards to the spell Akaicia had put upon him. "I guess even you aren't entirely safe from that sort of thing, huh Samuel?" He watched as Thena reemerged from behind the makeshift privacy curtain, back to her human self, and he gave her a smile. "Ah," he said. "I couldn't be certain. You never know these days, after all." He couldn't recall if he'd ever been to Purgatory himself- if he had, it would have been during his escape from Hell. Either way, it was not a place he had any interest in visiting. Slowly, the mutant rose to his feet. "Well, I think I'll try and get some rest now," he said. "It was nice to meet you, Thena. And as for you two," he added, approaching Samuel and Constantine. "Constantine, was it? Well, I just hope your expedition goes well. I'd hate for you guys to get trapped [c] in there. Have a good night." And with that said, Eric would head for the back room, knowing there was a makeshift sleeping area back there, and settle himself in for the night. [end]

Thena didn't catch onto the insult. Mostly because she didn't see it as one. She's not the only one who happened to be where a portal opened up. A lot of the times, the second it opens, people don't have time to get away from them. So, she simply ignored it and continued listening to their conversation. Moving from the bar stool, she grabbed her glass of whiskey after thanking him for it and went to sit back down at the table where she had been before. She moved to bring her feet up on her table and bring her knees up to her chest, sighing heavily as she took another small sip of the whiskey. Sam's question to her brought her attention to him and she simply nodded, taking in a deep breath and exhaling, "Uh. Yeah. I'm ok." Once she got some sleep, she might even be better. His attention was brought to Eric as he spoke about sleep, and she suddenly felt herself getting tired. Looking out the window once more, she contemplated on braving the night and heading back out... (c)But it seemed to be too risky with how bad the storm was tonight. The rattling of the thunder plus the wind... It would make it pretty hard for her to navigate and fly in such weather... Another exhale left her and she removed her feet from her chair, letting them hit the floor. Polishing off the little bit of whiskey she had left, she got up to set the glass on the bar top. So far, this whiskey was just making her tired. Honestly, she didn't want to be overly drunk in front of people she hardly knew. "I think sleep is a good idea.. I'm gonna go find a place to sleep, myself.. Goodnight guys. Nice meeting all of you.." She smiled faintly and wandered around towards the back hall to find some kind of room to sleep in. (d)

J. Constantine snuffed out his cig. It would be quite obvious that though the man's knowledge of the occult was extensive, he really is at odds with the concept. He has a love/hate relationship with both sides equally. Call him an equal opportunist. Head would turn as Eric would approach them, nodding a farewell before leaning over the bar, taking a sip of his drink. He could feel Thena start to fade a bit, and rather than answer Sam right away, John would wait those few moments before suddenly, she knew she would have to go as well. Another nod to her. Apparently if he didn't know you, you rarely would get two words out of him. Watched as Thena would wander back, bringing his attention back to the man next to him. Hearing that yes, he did have connections with them.. It made him groan on the inside. "This is what is going to happen when you decide to play God, Sam." Torso would turn now, as those dark eyes suddenly held a bit of intensity just then.[c]> "Any face you know, any friendship you hold with these people, will be your downfall. They are shells of who they were. Shadows of who you know. They will plead with you, beg you to not only let them stay, but to have you stay with them. These are people who have been so far gone, they forget who they are completely." John would say, taking a breath. Those eyes would look him over, a sliver on concern would be reflected as he looked Sam over. It would feel like hours, the way he was gauging it. Constantine knew.. If Sam tried to step foot in there, he most likely would be stuck in Purgatory. And John would have to go on a rescue mission regardless. Head would turn back ahead, finishing his drink in one, long swig. "You can only bring one other person if you want to bring anyone. I need exactly twelve vials of holywater as well as three crosses made of either pine or cypress." John would say, shaking his head.[c]J. Constantine would turn, "if we do this, we do this on my own terms, Sam. I'm not here to play fucking babysitter nor tour guide in Purgatory." The words were stern enough to get the point across, as well as that pause afterwards. Holding his blues there long enough, he would stand. "Let me know what day, I'll let you know what time." He would mumble, already extracting another smoke from jacket before lighting it. "And Sam.." Constantine would say, turning to him just as he would reach the door. "Leave your girlfriend home." Was that a flicker of a smile right then? And a joke?! But before anyone could witness it, there he was strolling out into the Noxsine infested night as if nothing dark ever existed.[e]

Samuel Leo quietly observed each of them going to bed. Praying that their dreams be peaceful and full of blissful things silently as they stalked their way to their rooms. But he was at least polite about the two saying their goodbyes. "It was nice to meet you as well, Thena. I would like to talk more to you next time if that's okay?" was asked, smiling at her. "We'll be fine Eric, return before you know it." Sort of...ish. Maybe. Anyway, but he didn't mention that part. Because he had faith that there was a reason that he just had this undeniable trust in Constantine, hardass or not. Man of few words was a wise man...God once said. Having a wise and kick-ass partner on this trip? Would be a very, well...heh. Wise decision. It was when the torso turned and those eyes gave him such a hard no shitting stare, that Samuel knew he had the guy agreeing to it before he even said it. As he started to go into detail, Samuel nodded. "Got it." came his reply. Bleeding heart Samuel had >a bleeding heart for things on earth. Purgatory? Only the lost souls. The TRUE lost souls. Another nod as he finished and took his breath. "Fully understood. I will not stray far from you, I promise. You have my word, Constantine." Guess we'll see if it's good or not huh? Now he was fully turning...Samuel knew for damn sure he had the guy. The sliver of concern in that face... that was so briefly seen, had Samuel smiling a bit more. Quit smiling you, idiot. The items he started to list, Samuel was certain he had most of that, and what he didn't? He could acquire in a day. Less than a day, likely. "I'll follow your lead, swear on the bible." was that a joke? Likely by how that patient smile rose a twitch on his face briefly. As he stood and said those words, Samuel thought real quick. What would be the best day? You'd need a week at least to make sure everything was gonna run smoothly when you were gone...."April 16th." Did Preacher man keep up with the months >without technology? Easy science was the answer, right? And when he paused at the doorway....and said that nickname, Samuel turned his head to regard Constantine one last time as he picked up that one last glass of whiskey that was left...pausing as Constantine cracked that joke, only to have Samuel laughing brightly in amusement as he gave him a thumbs up, seemingly enjoying the joke thoroughly. "I need you to chase them off for me!" was shouted in return, still laughing when Constantine exited before taking the shot, and looking over Thenas well-being to double check in on her before settling down nearby with his bible.