[IC] 🦄 Deeper Than The Sands - Merged With T.S.

[Morose]

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Nora Kingston

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Location: Docks - The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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As much as Nora wished to concentrate on Vera's words, the presence of Mosi at the table was like that of a pesky fly. She had imagined that she would go off with Mahendra, seemingly friends with him, but she had not. She took a breath and closed her eyes for a fraction of a second, attempting to keep her composure. It was not too long ago that Mosi laughed over the death of someone she had felt a certain kinship with. Although she had not known Neema very long, she felt more of a connection with Neema than she had with most of her family - with the exceptions being her dear brother Ethan and her sadly departed brother Ernest. She felt a pang of regret as Josephine left the table. She was preferable company to Mosi by any means.

Had it not been for the arrival of the Lord Major and George, Nora would have simply gotten up and left the table in order to get some air. She noted the girl of extreme short stature revealed to be George's sister, yet there was a strange noise seemingly coming from below and Vera's spoon turned into a missile. However, there was something else that caught Nora's attention and she kept a discrete facial expression. Lady Munn seemed to have a certain fondness for George. There was something there that Nora sensed, something she had not sensed between Vera and Peter.

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Gene Benaszewski

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Location: Docks - The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Gene shrugged, taking Lauren's seat and plopping down in it. She couldn't help but snicker, seeing her brother and Lady Munn. She then looked at Josephine, recalling the question she had been asked. "Oh, nice t'meet you. I'm here to look after my little brother - and then there's some family business he needs to be made aware of later," Gene then pulled a piece of candy out of her pocket and offered it to Josephine. "Want some? I've got a huge soft spot for sweets - sugar is my addiction of choice." She then turned to look at Lady Munn, sizing her up for the moment.

She certainly seemed pretty and the way Georgie was interacting with her kept a smirk on Gene's face. Her brother deserved a little bit of happiness in his life, no matter how short lived it would ultimately end up being. And he was right - the girl did have fantastic aim. "Are you going to introduce me to the others, Georgie, or are you going to continue smiling at her?" Gene asked pointedly, before smiling at him with angelic innocence. Oh yes, she certainly was not like the idealized depiction of the fairer sex in these days.

[rivaan]

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Priscilla Harker

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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All things were going mighty fine right now. There was a nice big boat, they were on it and it was to depart, leaving this place behind. Arrival was bound to be interesting, but for now her attention was elsewhere and to be specific on Vera who was having a nice tale to tell. Frankly Mosi realized she had more or less skipped on learning the family trees of the gods of Ancient Greece. Then again while she studied history, she wasn't exactly focused on it... That and art was more her thing to begin with. Besides her head was filled with forging techniques and studied rather than what she should have focused on anyways.

She noticed the Lord Major coming to them and asking if he could join. There were also some other people she saw approached. Rather big of a group their was. Then the next of the long line of curious curiosities of happenings well happened! Someone screamed or something a very intriguing words. Mosi raised an eyebrow as Vera happened to have another one of her clumsiness moments strike and she ended up propelling something at the masked man's face. She wondered what he reminded her of right now, but she couldn't quite place her thumb on it, so let that go for the moment and started snickering at the happening anyways.” I swear there's never a dull moment around you, Miss Vera.” She smiled widely.

“Have a nice rest, Mahendra!” She called after him as he wanted to leave. Truth be told she really wanted to think of a clever witty face pun, but couldn't think of one for the moment, besides it would be too rude... or would it? She was going to have to think up of one for later! Now that Lauren also left, her attention fell on the new woman. A rather innocently angelic looking one at that. It triggered some innate kind of feeling in Mosi, a feeling she pondered upon for a while, wondering what exactly it was, but couldn't figure it out. She then focused on the masked man again. From the words of it they were brother and sister. Well certainly not her first guess, but stranger things have happened. She realized his name was George from all the talking going on. She now thought again, had she caught the woman's name though? After a little bit of thinking she realized she indeed haven't! She wondered if she should just introduce herself, since she was pretty sure the George person didn't know her. It was more curious to see what would happen though.

[FantasyChic]

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Josephine Clark

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Jo smiled brightly as she introduced herself. It was one of very few occasions she had introduced herself to someone in their group and was met with kindness in return. "Well aren't you just the sweetest thing? I can tell we will get along swimmingly, darling." She also took the candy that was offered to her. "How thoughtful! I would love some." She said as she at the piece. It had been a lot while since she had candy.

Just as Jo was about to speak some more, the shrill shriek came that she was sure she heard the last of. Why couldn't the box have fallen on his head instead? She fought off the urge to push the man off the boat and let the waters take him as she knew the Lord Major was fond of him (what that said about either of the men she dared not say). Instead, she was content to listening in and letting the intellectuals talk. She had her own goal in mind, after all.

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Faye Masterson

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Location: Aboard The Boat (2nd Story Rails)
Skills: N/A

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Faye was more or less happy to be along for the ride, though she often enjoyed watching people and making up stories. Her glance caught a few on the main deck. Some dressed for sailing weather. She swore she recognized one of the women, but it was hard to tell from this distance. The others were all congregated around each other and speaking. Obviously friends on an adventure, if she had to wager a guess.

She, too, noticed the army men and that was peculiar. "I can't say I know, but isn't that odd. I know army men go where stationed and I believe there is some sort of headquarters for them here, or whatever you call it, but to be on this ship and going to the same place we are? Perhaps that is a sign we are on the right track, after all?" Faye couldn't help but be invigorated.

And she also heard the loud yell that pierced the air like a knife. "Golly, was that a person screaming? Could have been a wail of a departed spirit bent on haunting the boat. Either way, best to steer clear of him.

[Sigil]

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Reginald Keystone

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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It came as a bit of a surprise that others heard the noise, too. Even if it meant that Vera hurled a spoon across the table and pinged her bodyguard in the face with it. Glancing around the boat, he was surprised to note that others heard it as well - just in case the spoon incident was a coincidence. In a way, this was good; Reginald was starting to think that he had finally started down the path to senility. On the other hand, if he was not imagining this (as the evidence seemed to support), it meant something far stickier was afoot. In short, it meant that The Corporal was on the boat with them.

Reginald quickly focused his attention back on the table, possibly hoping for a moment of respite and polite conversation before the man found their table, possibly out of pure and unfettered denial. "Absolutely, yes." he piped up, one hand pulling out the recently vacated chair while the other unhooked his saber from his belt. He settled into the seat, exhaling as his posterior found its perch. Though the slightest breach of protocol, the Lord Major rested the scabbarded weapon against his leg, the hilt within reach should something untoward crawl up the side of the boat and lay siege to the Bridge. "Ladies, sir; thank you ever so much." He noticed the place settings for tea with some measurable delight, remarking, "Ah, lovely! Etiquette would suggest that it is a touch late in the evening for full Tea. However, I shan't turn down a cup of something warm and invigorating. If no one objects?" He reached carefully to fill the cup in front of him, "Now, don't mind an old man's interruption, and please forgive what shall likely be my ignorance to the discussion at hand; I am but an old soldier, you see. The intellectuals," he concluded, nodding to Vera and Nora, "hold more importance here."

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Haring Reddish

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Oh, there was still so much to do, so much to have done, and one more huge piece of task left before he could relax. As it turned out, it was one last pivotal item to check off of his "To Do List" before his continued presence was assured, or if he would be swimming the first part of his trip back to the Barracks. But first, he had to locate the old man before that possibility could come to pass. Sharp eyes scanned the throng of movement and press of bodies, hoping to catch a glimpse of grey, khaki, or the distinctive outline of an officers' cap that would denote the Reginald's presence.

It took long enough but eventually he located the proper table from afar, not by finding the Lord Major directly, but by directing his search for the company he had been keeping as of late. Whereas the majority of the travelers were of mixed walks of life, a table consisting primarily of women in a Muslim state was going to be notable. Plus, he was able to catch glimpse of two familiar faces moving toward the staterooms. It was a quick figure to look in the direction they had come from, narrowing down his area of search considerably. With a reassured smile, the Corporal straightened to his full height, smoothed the non-existent wrinkles in his uniform and adjusted his holster and primary bayonet on his belt to lay perfectly across his seams.

The Corporal was in no direct hurry to get to the table. He was not procrastinating more than showing a piece of tactic, giving himself a little time to widen the gap between the boat and its launching point, just in case the Lord Major did have it in his mind to have him swim back. A few meters of shallow water would be nothing, but he doubted that Reginald might be as inclined to order such a thing if they were further into a shipping channel. After a moment or two had passed, he produced a set of papers from one of his cargo pockets and began to make his way toward the table, the tiniest of smiles forming at the corner of his mouth.

[Lady Absinthia]

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Deeper Than The Sands

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Date: October 5th, 1924

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The sun is shining and the air is dry, the boat has left the docks and you are finally on your way. Temperature is currently covering around the low 80's. (Fahrenheit) It will be a three day trip to get to where you can unload. For the next threes days you are going to be stuck on a multiple story boat with around 100 other passengers and a crew of around 30.

• The Bridge is restricted access to crew members and those with rooms on the Elite Deck.
• The Elite Deck is restricted to those with rooms on that deck only. They can have their meals where they chose on the boat. (Mostly they will chose the higher class Lounge on their Deck or the Sun Deck above.)
• The Second Deck is open for roaming but meals on this floor in the dining room are for Elite or Second Deck Only. This would be considered business class.
• The Main Deck is open to all.
• The Lower Deck is restricted to those with Lower Deck Passage or Crew members only. They will have their meals in this decks dining area or on the main deck. Crew eats their meals here as well.
• The Cargo Deck, now that the ship has sailed, is restricted to Crew members only.

All Decks: People are starting to pull themselves away from the railings now that boat has left the docks. Some are moving towards the Lounge on that deck, others towards the dining room. Some are moving towards their rooms. It is closing in on time for evening meals. Remember, each person can only dine in the areas where they are allowed per their room locations. All meals and restrictions to decks will be maintained throughout the 3 days on the Ferry. Invitations by people of one deck to another won't be allowed unless it is someone of a higher level deck being invited to a lower level one or approved by the Captain personally. Servants may go where their employers are residing during the trip. Staff checks names at each level moving up but not down unless it is Cargo.

Room Assignments: (Got tired of waiting on messages.)

• Elite Deck: Largest rooms, about 30 by 15 feet divided between a sleeping area, sitting area, and private bathroom.
  • Reginald
  • Vera
  • Josephine
  • Nora
  • Lauren
• Second Deck: Bathroom, sitting area and large bed. About 10 feet by 15 feet total
  • Mosi
  • Herring
  • Gene
  • Mahendra
  • George
• Lower Deck: A bed and night stand basically with no view outside. About 4 feet by 10 feet in size.
  • Richard
  • Faye

Main Deck: Vera turned several shades of red and squeaked slightly as George joked at her about the incident. At least he didn't seem to be angry over the entire ordeal. She hadn't meant for it to happen but it had nonetheless and she was embarrassed by it. Thankfully things were happening quickly around the crowded ship and it didn't seem that her little incident wouldn't be a focal point for long. Looking over to Mahendra she nodded. She couldn't exactly blame him for wanting to get some rest. "Yes, of course. Should you need anything, ring the concierge from your room. They can bring you room service should you prefer to dine in your room this evening," she said as she tried to not make anything else break or go ting with her fuddling.

George stepped out of the way so that the man would be able to pass with ease. "Mmm, good rest sir," George said simply but in a kind voice. A slight smile going towards Lauren as she was helping the man. George gave a sharp glance over towards his sister and cleared his throat, though it did not help. His speech was always rough as he spoke. "Mmm, this is my sister Gene. She got the brains...mmm I got the looks," he said and grinned a bit before looking back at the others. "Miss Ridgeway and Mr. Zalil, Miss Clark, Ladies Kingston and Munn, I...mm.. don't know her," he said introducing each but Mosi since he hadn't met her yet.

Vera smiled and went to stand up but felt her foot slipping and sat down quickly as she let a short breath. "It's a pleasure to meet you," she said as she remained planted where she was. She could see some resemblance. Sure they were very different in height but that wasn't anything. Two genders, fraternal twins were no more alike than any other siblings. They both had darker eyes and hair. Sure George was a bit more tanned but Vera figured that was because he was out in the sun more. A tan could make people appear very different. "It must have been wonderful to grow up with a sibling," Vera said with nervous smile as she glanced over towards George.

George had to choke back a laugh. "Mmm, yes," he said before looking over towards Gene and giving her a look. "Mmm, let's go get you settled and discuss the news you had to tell me," he said before looking back at the others. "Mmm, excuse us," he said before waiting for Gene to lead the way to her room. He knew what deck he was on from his ticket but he had no idea where she would be staying. He wanted to find out just what in the world she had traveled all this distance to tell him. Usually anything they needed to speak about could wait.

"Oh yes, of course. We should all get ready for dinner and settle in," Vera said as she pulled her ticket out of her purse to double check where her room was. She hadn't bothered to as of yet, just trusting that rooms had been gotten for each of them. While the military was helping out with supplies and the museum was helping with some things, most of this was on her families dime. She did hope that everyone was rightly taken care of right properly.

[ONL]

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Mahendra Huq Zalil

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Location: Main Deck: Lounge -> Stairs leading to Second Deck
Skills: N/A

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Mahendra, having somehow steadied himself on the aforementioned chair, managed to stand straight with the assistance of Lauren and gave one last smile and nod to everyone around the table. He made sure to give the approriate attention to George and his sister Gene as they were introduced and wish of a good rest. "Thank you, Mr. Benaszewski, and good to make your..." Mahendra started, but had to focus a tad more at the last word. "...acquaintance, Miss." He finished, before holding that little firmer to Lauren's hold on him with his one hand as he started moving. The other hand rumaged through his pocket for the ticket, his ticket. No good would ever come from taking the wrong room. "Second Deck. It would seem that I have a portside view from my room. That's good, I suppose?"

The Main Deck was starting to thin out ever so slightly for various reasons it would seem, but Mahendra was still taking it slow, even with the assistance of Lauren. "I hope you understand that I...appriciate you helping me, Lauren. Were the tables turned around, I assure you I would have done the same...Unless that would be innaproriate of me, of course." Mahendra flustered at the last part, imagining what it could have looked like had it been the other way around; What would people have said and thought? But for now his mind mostly focused on the prospect of a good, soft bed to lay down on. As he came to the stairs leading up from the Main Deck and up to the Second Deck, one of the ship's crew stopped him to ask him about his identification, surely to make sure that the wrong people didn't gain access to places they weren't meant to be.

"Mahendra Huq Zalil. My identification? Of course, please just give a moment..." Mahendra answered the crewman's inquiry, searching his pockets for his wallet and pulling out his British-Indian passport for him to check. Hopefully the glass hadn't made the passport photograph unrecognizable. So for good measure, he pulled out his ticket as well.

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Richard Barker

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Location: Second Deck: Starboard railings
Location: N/A

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Richard gave off a heavy sigh, heavy like a grand piano getting dropped by some Polish workers getting yelled at by an Irish landlord on Perry Street, ten stories straight down onto the pavement and all the way down into the sewers. He should have expected Faye to give the screaming some supernatural abilities, which he was one hundred percent sure it wasn't. Plenty of people had screamed back in Little Egypt back home, and you didn't see any ghosts flying off into the closest mosque, church, synagogue or ancient temple across the sea, now did you? But she did at least have a point, partially. "Staying clear of that person, now that is a horse I can bet on. I'd rather keep my sense of hearing for a few more years."

The steamboat started moving up (or down?) the river Nile, and so it would seem its passangers did; following the current flow of human winds to wherever they were wanted or wanted to go. Richard looked at the various people down on the lower deck and the deck around him, having the equivelant of an internal Battle of the Somme on a question that neither answer was ultimately good; Was it time for another sigarette? The Detective shoved his hand down his pocket, pulled up the battered box of cheap, Egyptian cigarettes and looked into the pocket. Like the last bullets in his well-used .38 in a dodgy alleyway without any proper name, they were there but best saved for later. The hound inside him was getting something else to feast on. "Say Faye, are you up for something to eat? If you're lucky, one of those Army Chaps will too? Just as a good sign, you know."

[Nallore]

Lauren Ridgeway

Location: The Ferry Main Deck: Lounge -> Stairs leading to Second Deck
Skills: N/A

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"It's nice to meet you as well, hopefully we will have more time to get to know each other later." Lauren said towards Gene as she continued to help Mahendra as they started to head inside. She looked over towards him for a moment as he started to speak up, and gave a slight smile as Mahendra took out his ticket to look at it. She had seen her own earlier when she got her ticket, but took another quick look at it once more. "A nice port view is good." Lauren said towards him as she set her ticket back into her pocket as she started to continue to follow alongside Mahendra making sure that he wouldn't trip or fall.

"Don't mention it, i'm sorry that you ended up with those injuries." Lauren said softly towards him as she watched a few guests starting to walk their way past them and assumed that they would be heading to their rooms, and get things ready for dinner. She blushed slightly towards the last part of his sentence. "It would only be proper to help out an injured lady in need." She said giving a slight smile as they were at a flight of stairs when a crew member stopped them.

Lauren went to take out her ticket as well, just in case they needed to stop her as well, her eyes wondering over towards Mahendra for a moment as he started to search for his own ID as well, and started to wonder if he needed a bit of help finding it.

[rivaan]

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Priscilla Harker

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Location: Main Deck: Lounge -> Stairs leading to Second Deck
Skills: N/A

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Talking about how things proceeded it turned the woman's name was Gene. Mosi smiled the brother was introducing them one by one and ended with her whom he indeed didn't know. She gave off a friendly smile and tipped her hat.” My name's Priscilla Harker, you can skip that and call me Mosi though, everybody does. Pleasure to meet you two.” She explained with a smile to the brother sister pair.

After that introduction was done, some more pleasantries were had and finally all decided it was more or less time to get going and settle in their rooms.” Perhaps the best plan, yes.” She agreed with a nod and also pulled her ticket to check. The thing said Second Deck. She nodded to herself and rose from her seat, quickly started heading for the staircase leading for the second deck. Which consisted of following after the masses more or less until she located the staircase.

She surprisingly found Mahendra and Lauren at the staircase dealing with some kind of check going on. She already had her ticket so she just shrugged and made her way over, which was slightly bothersome with the wound she was recalled having after having to push through the people about, but she did made it ever so closer to them. She had to stop and take a few deep breaths leaning on the wall to the side, grimacing from the pain radiating from her brand. She cursed in her mind before focused her attention and continued walking to the staircase, having her ticket in hand.

[Morose]

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Nora Kingston

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Location: Docks - The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Nora had been hoping for some more conversation and discussion of the mythology that Lady Munn had raised, but it would seem that it would have to wait. She had no doubt it would recommence at dinner and likely be a topic of much discussion throughout the duration of the ferry trip. She did hope that she would not get too sea sick. When it came to matters of constitution, Nora always felt a bit apprehensive that she would lapse back into her childhood illness. Pulling out her own ticket, she saw that she was on the elite deck - and for a brief moment, she wondered whether it was because she was one of the intellectuals...or if it was again just due to the circumstances of her birth.

"Lady Munn, where is your room? I could walk with you if you wish," Nora said softly. She did not mind walking to her room alone, but she also figured that Lady Munn might need some assistance due to her clumsy nature. Yet at the same time, Nora did enjoy her company and would look forward to the opportunity to spend some more time talking with her. She had to imagine that after Peter's sudden passing, company would help...though George's company seemed to help put a smile on Vera's face as well, Nora could not help but note.

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Gene Benaszewski

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Location: Docks - The Ferry (Main Deck) ---> Heading to the Second Deck
Skills: N/A

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Gene smirked slightly at Josephine. While some might have found the sweetest thing to be a bit patronizing, it amused Gene to no end. She had recently been met with nothing but attitude by a new group that she had met. They were basically screaming toddlers. And now, here was a woman, responding to her in a much more positive manner. Yes, Gene was certain they would get along swimmingly - mostly because she was already at her limits with some other individuals and could use some positive company before she completely snapped.

She also couldn't help but notice how people were deferring to the ones with qualifications and expertise here. It was refreshing and she almost longed to just stay on this boat forever, eating candy in the company of these extremely British people. If only there were more Brits back at home - everything was so polite and no one was acting like an entitled child. She was snapped out of her thoughts by George's comment about her getting the brains and him getting the looks, rolling her eyes but she giggled slightly at it. "Oh, I have some stories I could tell you about Georgie..." Gene mused with a mischievous glint in her eye, nodding a bit though at her brother's words. She did have some things to tell him.

Gene had already noted which room she was on - she had a room on the second deck. "I'm on the second deck," she added to him, as she took out her papers and headed that way, ready to show her identification and tickets if needed. "These people seem brilliant, Georgie, I have t'say." Of course, her impression of them could easily change.

[Sigil]

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Reginald Keystone

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Well, it stood to reason that as soon as Reginald got comfortable, people began a minor exodus of sorts. Well, it all stood to reason, after a small spot of tea it was naturally time to ready for an evening meal. While Reginald did feel a bit peckish, all this running about without the coursing pitch of gunfire just seemed unnatural. But the departure of a number of persons from the table aside, Reginald could tell that what he thought was a mere auditory hallucination from earlier was, in fact, a piece of striking reality. He was aboard the ship. Why was beyond him, really. Perhaps, like the rest of them, he felt some preternatural pull and just didn't tell anyone about it.

Reginald stood briefly as may of the others excused themselves, as manners of the day suggested. He was interested in seeing his stateroom himself, though tea came first. It would not be proper to just leave a cup half finished. Besides, he very likely had business with one of his subordinates in a moment or two that needed to be handled directly. With composed calm, the Lord Major sat, sipping his tea with deliberation, waiting for the scene which would unfold next. He could almost feel the Corporal's presence as he neared the table. When the sound of boots scuffled to a stop behind him and he heard a sharp intake of breath, heralding an abrupt, affirming yell of some kind, Reginald cut him off with a measured, "If you yell, Corporal, I shall toss you bodily into the Nile. Now, report."

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Haring Reddish

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck)
Skills: N/A

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Having been denied a signature calling of "Lord MAJOR!!!", one might believe the man to be crestfallen. It showed in his features for just a moment before he snapped back to his usual British stiff-upper-lippedness, and began to address Reginald with a surprisingly even and cultured voice. "Indeed, sir. Cargo is secured, animals are boarded, and your personals have been delivered to your room as per order. Here," he handed over two of the papers in his hand, which Reginald accepted and reviewed, "are your papers; boarding, individual manifest, and room assignment. You've the Elite Deck, sir. Likewise, I've take the liberty of securing lodging one deck below to see to your requirements while on board, sadly propriety suggests that I not take quarters of equal standing as yourself. Sir."

"And what the devil do you mean by that, Corporal?" This from a mildly confused Reginald.

"The Letter of Assignment, sir. You named me as your valet, and did not rescind after the initial job was completed with the boat. I intend to perform my duties to their fullest, sir, and thank you for the honor of it, sir. Sir? Permission to thank you appropriately?"

"Denied, Corporal. In fact, as you have invited yourself along on this little expedition, I shall find use for you. But not on this boat; not now. I am off-duty until further notice, and so are you, Corporal. Understood?"

"Oh, indeed sir!" exclaimed the Corporal, brimming with happy just to be accepted into the group, even if he had to resort to trickery to do so. "Off duty, off duty... hmm." He didn't seem the type to fully comprehend the concept. Did this mean he had to switch out of uniform? Probably... Well, it was good that he brought a few civilian items.

Maintaining his measured patience, Reginald made the best of the situation. Here was another person who would follow orders, knew his way around a rifle, was in respectable physical condition, and could likely assist George in his role as bodyguard for Vera if necessary. "At ease, Corporal. Off duty, remember? Take a seat, see to your room, whatever. Maybe take a meal here in a while."

Reddish seemed a little out of sorts at first. Manners outside of military protocol were rusty, but he could use the opportunity to flex his social skills a little bit. Right at that moment, however, now that he was given permission to relax somewhat, he found himself looking over toward an oddly familiar lady. He couldn't quite place from where. A lovely face framed by blonde hair and adorned in a mock nautical themed dress in a charming color of almost-navy blue. Before he got caught staring at Josephine, he introduced himself, "Apologies, ma'am. Corporal Haring Reddish, at your service. If I may, that is the most lovely dress you have chosen for yourself this evening, ma'am. Spectacular, if I may be allowed to say." He even looked a little nervous. "Ma'am, have we met? You seem very familiar somehow."

[FantasyChic]

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Josephine Clark

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck) -> Stairs Leading To The Second Deck
Skills: N/A

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Josephine was aware of where her room was and was immensely satisfied, though it did occur to her that the others were probably not as fortunate as she. This meant they would be unable to dine with them in the lounge on their deck. While she was sure it would be more comfortable, Jo was content (somewhat) to be dining with her comrades. Just this once, of course. She also wanted to speak with Gene some more. It wasn't often she got the sense she'd enjoy the company of another.

That was, until someone else came to speak to her. Someone she hadn't expected and, quite frankly, didn't have a desire to speak to. After all, she could still hear the ringing in her ears from their last encounter. However, it would be rude of Jo not to accept such heartfelt compliments. "Corporal Reddish then? Well met. I am Josephine Clark and I do believe we have met before. If I recall quite correctly, it was at the barracks. I remember you yelling quite loudly for the Lord Major. Be that as it may, thank you for the compliment, darling. It is nice that my efforts are appreciated. We were about to go dine. You are welcome to come along, if you are free."

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Faye Masterson

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Location: Aboard The Boat (2nd Story Rails) _> Stairs to Lower Deck
Skills: N/A

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While those on the lower decks seemed to be moving about, Faye's stomach growled as Richard mentioned food. They were on the lower deck, of course, as their salaries could not afford such luxury. Still, it was better than going hungry and not having means of transportation. "Yes, I am quite hungry. Perhaps we will get further information as to why the army is here over our meal. I see what you mean. Though, for all we know, they are here on routine business. Quite boring, really."

Faye glanced down one more time, observing the heads of the passengers, before she moved towards the stairs. "What do you make of Egypt, by the way? I've only ever been outside of the United States once and that was to England, so not much difference from home. Egypt is unique, isn't it? I'd quite like to stay here on vacation once this is all sorted out. The wonder of it all."

[Lady Absinthia]

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Deeper Than The Sands

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Date: October 5th, 1924

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All Decks: It will be a constant flittering about of all the decks for roughly the next three posts until dinner begins and then things will clear out as people sit down and begin to eat. There will be those that don't rush off to eat but the first evening meal after sailing is one of the largest, only second to the last evening meal before the next post. Checks will be roughly quick as long as you all keep your ticket on you. Random rolls here and there will determine if a ticket gets lost or even stolen. Watch the posts closely.

Character Proceeding Forward: Vera nodded slightly but she remained where she was for a moment or two. Letting a few clear out before she would attempt to stand back up. She was finding herself faltering a bit more than normal but it had been a rather tedious last few days and she hadn't been sleeping well. It didn't matter that somethings had changed and that she felt invigorated by finally being on their way, the events still weighed heavily on her. The most dire that kept crawling into her mind was that Peter was now dead and she would be unable to attend any funeral for him. Perhaps she should have traveled with him back England but then again his parents wouldn't have been happy to see her and perhaps blamed her for his death. Then again if she hadn't been so stubborn and just kept her promise they could have been planning a wedding instead of dig...

George shook his head slightly and escorted his sister towards the stairs to the next deck up. Glancing back he nodded slightly. "Mmm yes but.." he said, letting his words fall away as he looked over to Gene and his face saddened. "Time isn't on mmm my side," he said as they walked. He knew that of all people, Gene would know what he meant. Reaching the stairs he waited for those before them in line to be cleared and then showed his ticket.

"Ye..." the man said before taking a hard look at George and taking a step back. "Um..you have access to the Elite Deck as well," he stuttered as he stamped Georges ticket. "Listed as Lady Munn's personal hand," he gulped before thrusting over the ticket. Mahendra would be listed as Lady Munn's assistant. The Corporal would be listed as The Lord Majors. Seemed the three of them had access to the Elite deck as well as they were listed as service of aristocracy. George looked down at his ticket, he hadn't bothered to look before but then glanced back over his shoulder.

Vera rose from her place slowly and nodded nervously towards Nora. "Yes please, I am on the Elite deck," she said before sighing. "Sounds pompous. I say we take our meal on the second deck with the rest of our company if you do not mind," she said towards Nora before making her way towards the stairs and moving forwards with the quick moving line. She found her gaze looking ahead only to find George looking back in her direction. She smiled slightly and averted her eyes nervously. They fell to her ticket and she finally took a good look at it. Apparently it had two other names on her ticket. George's and Mahendra's, listed as staff of hers. That was interesting.

[ONL]

---

Mahendra Huq Zalil

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Location: Stairs leading to Second Deck -> Second Deck
Skills: N/A

---

Was it the blodd-loss making him not as attentive as he'd been before, or was his mind simply refusing to cooperate because of bad karma? Either way it hadn't occured to Mahendra to actually hand over his ticket to the crew guarding the stairs and not his I.D. In the time it took for his poor brain to come up with that master plan, Mahendra noticed the smile Lauren gave him after her reply. "Yes, of course...let us both hope that that doesn't happens then, hopefully?" Mahendra said with a fatigued smile back, before finally realizing what he should be doing; handing over his ticket.

Biting through the burning pain that was still in his belly, Mahendra handed over the ticket to the crewman and waited patiently for his judgement. He looked back at Lauren, catching her earlier words. "Oh do not worry about me, Sadaẏa* Lauren. I've been through...much worse than glass. But...Thank you anyway. You are too kind." Mahendra turned back once the crewman caught his attention, partially by coughing and calling him by his last name. Apparently, to his understanding, he had access to the Elite Deck due to his role as assistant to Vera. With the ticket stamped and handed back to Mahendra, he started to move forward in the line and up the stairs, but stopped once he realized Lauren possibly wasn't with him. "May I ask ask to which deck you're assigned to?" The Bengangli glass-man asked Lauren, waiting up for her and making his way up to the Second Deck once they were together again. Soon, very soon he should have his time of rest, hopefully on a comfortable bed. Yes, that sounded nice.

Translation*

Kind

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Richard Barker

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Location: Second Deck: Starboard railings -> Stairs to Lower Deck
Location: N/A

---

"What I make of Egypt?" Richard repeated the question out loud, looking from the young and promising lady Faye who he hoped wouldn't end up in the same shitholes he'd been in, and turned his gaze out and up into the North-African sky. "On the one hand, it sure ain't Brooklyn. I'm sweating like a nervous pig in a Greek butcher house, most people give me a funny look that I don't like, and...I don't know." Richard looked down again as he pulled out his sunglasses and put them on his bandaged nose, looking back at Faye. "I'd rather not go on vacation just yet, got too much at my plate right now."

That much was true. He had plenty of unfinished business back in the States. Unpayed bills, unsolved cases, but most importantly a missing girl. His girl. Going off to the other side of the world while Elise was still missing. Stolen like an apple by a starving street kid. Richard sighed, looking up from his soon-to-be worn out shoes and back up at Faye as she started to move towards the stairs leading down. It was time for the first meal of the day for the hungry detective. "On the other hand, it doesn't smell as bad. Plenty of interesting people out here, like you said. And the food isn't too bad. Frankly I'm just waiting for someone to attempt to rob us. You know what they say; the more things change, the more they stay the same." Richard continued his conversation, cutting the distance between him and Faye until he was beside her. "You're not thinking of staying here after this is done, alone?"

[rivaan]

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Priscilla Harker

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Location: Main Deck: Stairs leading to Second Deck
Skills: N/A

---

---

All things considered this could have went a lot better, but since there were quite a few people trying to get sorted out through the stairs that served as checkpoints, she then sighed in admission that it was probably going to take a while. She could see others from her group out and far ahead of her in the crowds, but it was fine. She really wished she wasn't branded like this, moving through crowds was rather uncomfortable. Otherwise she would have already pushed her way through many of those people. With crowds like this who was to complain anyhow. First arrived first served! Sadly that was not hte case so she just slowly was making her way over to the stairs where it seemed Mahendra already got cleared to pass along with Vera and some of the others.

One by one the people on the line to pass through the stairs were moving up after their tickets got checked so she sighed and moved along with the flow. It was relatively quick moving line, but still a waiting line and she didn't like it. She wanted to lay down, rest a while and then be at full strength so she can have fun later.

Eventually though she did finally reach the point to get her ticket checked. Thus she quickly gave the ticket over to the man doing the checking." Should be on the second level." She stated just in case. While the ticket was being dealt with and confirmed which shouldn't really take too long, she threw a glance around the place. Some of the others she knew had already moved up. Frankly once she entered her room, the chances were she wasn't going to be going out until it was dinner time. With that thought in mind, she returned her focus on the ticket checker.

[Nallore]

Lauren Ridgeway

Location: The Ferry Main Deck: Stairs leading to Second Deck -> Second Deck.
Skills: N/A

---

---

Lauren looked at the crewman that took Mahendra's ticket once he had handed it over to him with the stamp on it and gave him a slight nod hopefully no one else would end up turning dead while on the ferry. Once Mahendra was okayed to go through Lauren handed her's over as well looking down at her ticket for a few seconds and then it was stamped as she was allowed to pass through. She quickly caught up with Mahendra as she started to guide him down the flight of stairs until they were on the second deck now.

"I'm on the Elite Deck apparently." Lauren said, which she wasn't really expecting to be getting a nice suite but she didn't mind having a nice room to herself. Lauren gave Mahendra a slight smile, as she continued to walk alongside him. "Your room shouldn't be that far now right?" Lauren asked. "Once you are at your room i'll go to mine." Lauren said, feeling her stomach rumble a little bit she was a little bit hungry right now. "Do you want me to get you any food if I can later?" Lauren asked him, figuring that he could rest a little bit or head to the dining room later in the evening.

[Morose]

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Nora Kingston

---

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Location: The Ferry - Main Deck (Lounge) --> the Stairs --> the Second Deck
Skills: N/A

---

"As am I," Nora told Lady Munn, once Vera explained that her room was on the elite deck. "Of course, I do not mind at all...There is no reason why we should not eat with the others." Of course, she was hopeful that Mosi would be absent from the meal. She had half a mind to turn her head the other way should Mosi fall overboard. After her callous treatment of Neema's death...Somethings were just unforgivable and despite Nora's calm and collected nature, Mosi had managed to inspire true anger and spite in her.

She made her way into the queue along with Lady Munn, noting the way Lady Munn looked down - perhaps content or ashamed. There were others in the line as well and Nora was thankful that it was moving quickly. She wanted to see to her rooms before heading to dinner. There was always just something relaxing about seeing where one would sleep before evening truly fell - a learned behavior that Nora could not truthfully explain. Once up to the second deck, Nora then made her way for the next queue and check point, wishing to move to the elite deck quickly.

---

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Gene Benaszewski

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Location: The Ferry - Second Deck ---> Cabins
Skills: N/A

---

Gene could hardly contain her glee at that particular bit of phrasing, once their tickets were checked and they headed up to the second deck. "Oh, I am more than certain that you are her personal hand," Gene snickered, looking at her brother. She knew that time wasn't on his side, but she couldn't help but tease him playfully about his crush. It was cute, seeing him attracted to another person. There wasn't much that she could do about the time factor - well, there was one thing but the odds of that happening were close to zero. "Come on then," she added once more.

Gene had spent enough of her life wandering around to typically have a good sense as to where exactly she was going. She glanced at her ticket once more, before she set off to her room, dragging her brother along with her. They had a lot to discuss before dinner and she didn't want to miss what was typically the best meal of the trip - or so she had been told. "I hope they'll have pudding..." she then mused, half to her brother and half to herself.

[Sigil]

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Reginald Keystone

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck -> Second Deck and ascending)
Skills: N/A

---

---

And there, in one fell swoop, Reginald divested himself of the Corporal and was able to take tea. Granted, this was only a temporary situation, tea and solitude both, as the push to get people settled into their rooms was upon them. The standard bribe for a speedy transition of this nature came in a manner most ingenious: Supper. It made sense. Get your affairs squared away and have first access to your dining floor. Reginald couldn't help but want to tip his cap to whomever set it up; it was a splendid way to herd the populous without having to order people about. Far be it for him to make waves in this regard. He just wanted to put a little distance between himself and his "new valet".

The Lord Major had to give the younger man his ounce of credit. He saw an opportunity and seized it. Corporal Reddish showed an extraordinary amount of initiative and gumption to attempt a maneuver such as this. Moreover, the man stayed within the boundaries of military protocol the entire way through. No orders gone against, no duty left undone. He even had paperwork backing his play. So much as the man had the occasion to grate upon his last nerve, Reginald was highly impressed. Now, so long as he could get through the next three days without pitching The Corporal into the Nile, things might actually work out to his benefit.

The tea, a good half a cup left, was hastily thrown down his gullet and he began to make his way to the stairs. The press of bodies was not something with which he was wholly comfortable, being a man who preferred his space. Reginald had to remember that he was out in a world wider than the confines of his command area. He could not expect to be the first in line, nor could he order about the people on the vessel, unless the Shipmaster gave him special dispensation. Such a thing was very much not expected. So, upon skirting around and away from the rest of his Fellowship, he fell in line with the rest of the passengers. Getting past the first checkpoint was easy, he obviously looked like Elite Deck material, bedecked and resplendent as he was in his Officers' Uniform and carrying the bearing of a Lord of Sussex. All the same, he was a stickler for protocol, at least until the staff came to know who he was well enough to let such trivialities slide, if indeed they were the type to do so. Reginald paused just for a moment to show his paperwork with a kind and knowing scrap of conversation. "Yes, here we are, old chap. Hmm... Good then. Ticket!" he exclaimed with bubbly demeanor, presenting the paper with restrained gusto. "I've other bits of important looking cardstock, be it required. But there we have it: Room assignment and the necessary others, all right and proper. Now young man, you have a glorious evening. If you would excuse me?"

The Lord Major stepped into the somewhat more open space of the second deck and immediately began moving toward the stairs for the Elite Deck. He had his personal belongings for which he had to account and supper, for which he needed to wash. He was a gentleman of propriety, after all.

---

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Haring Reddish

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Location: The Ferry (Main Deck -> Second Deck)
Skills: N/A

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---

There was a half second of agreeable surprise as Josephine deigned to speak with the Corporal. As she did so, he made certain to perform the various tiny acts of mannered behavior that the representatives of the British Empire were famous for performing, such as pushing back in Josephine's chair after she rose and, in a gesture of mild subordination, staying a partial step behind her as she made her way to the stairs. His words were metered and polite, despite the fact that his first words in response to her were in disagreement. "Ah, begging madame's pardon, but I fully recall you from the Barracks, ma'am. I mean to say, I am fairly certain I believe that I have seen you at some point in time prior to your most welcome time at the Qasr El Nil Barracks, if you take my meaning, ma'am; I simply do not know from where. Oh, and of course I would be positively delighted to accept your offer and join you for dinner this evening."

As they reached the stairs, Corporal Reddish gave pause and let himself act as a blocker against the movement of people trying to ascend to the next deck, giving Josephine an opportunity to step ahead without being jostled by the crowd. He made a small motion with one hand, suggesting that she use the opportunity to mount the first step. "You see, Miss Clark (might I call you Miss Clark?), I dare not have said anything earlier as I am an enlisted fellow and as such, my time is not my own. On Duty, you see. The only reason I possess the wherewithal to do so now is because The Lord Major has been kind enough to suspend my responsibilities to him as his valet on the interim. Or putting it differently, Off Duty, ma'am. As such, I am allowed to have a freer tongue with you." As they came to the official checking tickets, he handed his over and accepted it back without so much as looking away from his object of conversation. "Also as such, I used that newfound freedom of glibness to mention my admiration for your beauty and taste in style, ma'am. Bravo! Simply bravo." He even got in a celebratory clap or three for emphasis. "Why, if you'll permit me further liberties, ma'am, I must say that it would be an honor to take evening repast with a lady who looks like she just stepped off of the silver scre..."

Something in his face said that he had finally figured out where he had seen Josephine before.

[Lady Absinthia]

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Deeper Than The Sands

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Date: October 5th, 1924

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---

All Decks: By this point Cairo is behind you far in the distance as the boat heads northwest up the Nile. The decks are starting to clear out as people are moving to get ready for dinner. Now dinner on each deck is very different because during this day and age class systems are still very strong, even if they are only defined by the price of your ticket right now.

In the lower level of the ship where even the staff take their meals things are very relaxed. There are not individual tables or even small ones for groups to get together and talk quietly. There are long bench tables that span one end of the room to the other with bench seating. Like cafeteria tables one might see in larger schools or even prison. They are decently nice however. There is no seat assignments and things are relaxed. Food is served buffet style, which means grab your plate and serve yourself before being seated. All foods are local street fare foods popular in Egypt. Ales and Beers and Water are there to drink. Hard liquors are not unless you brought your own. People are loud and rambunctious. Talking drowns out most noises and what it doesn't music played by staff or even other passengers does. This is a good since you are right near the engine.

The Main deck has two lounges. One open air and one enclosed. Both are just your general bar type areas with tables scattered about. People don't really eat there unless it is some soft of small finger food or appetizer that has been placed out. Can't order more unless it is drinks. Anything hard or upscale costs a pretty penny and isn't covered in the cost of travel unless you have an Elite Level Ticket. Though no many of those are caught there. Most people mulling around here are from the lower level who just want some peace and quiet while still being social. That or have a major gambling habit and just want to play poker.

The Second Deck has more formal seating but the seats are not reserved. Tablecloths and the basics. You are waited on here and most of the people on this level are middle class or servants of the Elite who are taking a meal before they have to get to their employers above. You will have an option of several different meat choices before being served. Meals are served in 2 courses. Bread/Sides/Meat and then a small dessert. Wine, Beer, Ale, and water are free of charge, anything more does cost extra out of pocket and it not included in the cost of ticket.

The Elite Deck is a full seven course meal that is served slowly and with grandeur. All drinks are part of the fare of the ticket. Seating is assigned and it is the least crowded area. Light music is provided but nothing that would drown out polite conversation. Since the weather is nice currently and the air is cooling, dinner is served on the Sun Deck above and not in the Meeting Room of this deck. The Lounge will serve anything an Elite Ticket wishes as they play Poker, shoot Craps, talk, etc.

Character Proceeding Forward: George kept his eyes on Vera for a time before looking back over to his sister. Time was never on his side. Nodding he followed her up the stairs after showing his ticket. He couldn't help but chuckle just a bit at her want. "Yes, mmm pudding would be nice," he mused as they walked down the hallway to Gene's room. Part of him wanted to stay out in the hallway and wait for Vera, escort her to her room, and make sure she was safe but Gene had said she needed to tell him something important. She wouldn't have come all this way if it wasn't something that could wait too long. Taking a deep breath he followed her into the room and shut the door behind him.

Vera looked over towards Nora and smiled that she felt the same way. "Oh how wonderful, Should we meet back at the stairs when we are ready?" she asked as they made their way passed each check point. Catching a glimpse of George going into a room with his sister as they moved. She kept her hand on the rail each flight of steps they took, she didn't want to trip over her own two feet. Thankfully since she didn't have her nose buried in a book and wasn't babbling on about history she was able to keep her focus on getting to her room. "See you shortly then," she said kindly to Nora before breaking off from her to go to her personal quarters.

George had seated himself in a chair and was staring blankly at the ground. The news hit him hard. Harder than perhaps he had expected. The woman hadn't been his mother but she was like a mother to him in many ways even if they had not been especially close. They had a special bond, or had had a special bond. Nodding as the news was delivered. Reaching up he took off his mask and revealed what he kept so closely hidden. He knew it wouldn't shock Gene, she had seen it before and right then he just couldn't keep the thing on. The news weighed too heavily on him.

Finishing at quick light grooming and checking of her personal things Vera grabbed her ticket and slipped it into the pocket of her skirt before heading back out of her room. Closing and locking the door behind her she began to make her way back to the stairs leading down to the second deck. She waited for Nora to arrive but did not wait idly. In her hand she held a small note book she had put together and was scribbling down in it things that she hadn't gotten a chance to as of yet. They had been busy and this was the first chance she had gotten to update her notes. Granted it wasn't what someone might call a normal notebook, it was a more of a journal she was using as such.

Standing up George put his mask back on and took his sister into his arms and hugged her tightly. "I'm mmm glad you came," was all he said before letting her go and heading towards the door. "I should check on Lady Munn," he said changing the subject. It wasn't so much as he wanted to get away from his sister but between Peter dying and now this news he wanted to make sure, now more than ever, that he finished the job here and kept Vera safe. Opening the door he checked his weapons quickly before getting to the stairs and showing his ticket.

A curl of hair fell over her features as she kept writing, not even noticing people as they came up and went down the stairs. Her bottom lip curling as she wrote. She was in a world of her own that she didn't notice the man coming towards her that ran right into her. She nearly lost her footing and took a tumble down the stairs. She would have if an arm hadn't come along her waist and caught her. Looking up she found herself staring at the blank gaze of George's mask. "MMmmm are you alright?" he asked as he righted her before leaning down and picking up the pencil she had dropped.

Taking it gingerly in her finger she nodded quickly and nervously. "Oh um, yes. Thank you Mr... I mean George, thank you George," she said correcting herself. He had insisted that she call him by his first name, as had Nora. Swallowing lightly. "What...what are you doing up here?" she asked as he slowly stepped away from her.

"Making sure mmm you are safe," he said as he eyed the man rushing down the stairs without even a second glance back at the woman he had nearly caused grievous injury to because of his haste.

[FantasyChic]

---

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Josephine Clark

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Location: Stairs Leading To The Second Deck -> Second Deck
Skills: N/A

---

Jo looked over Reddish, aware that he was referring to her past. It seemed another had recognized her and that, of course, pumped up her ego even more than it already was. After all, there had only been a few that recognized her over in Egypt but the very fact there were any at all made her feel recognized. Realized. Before she could confirm or deny the man's claim, he seemed to answer his own question, if the look on his face was any indication. It was kind of cute, in a way. Like a little puppy dog.

Jo took out her ticket as she followed the others and made her way down to the second deck. "Seems like you figured it out, darling. And thank you for the compliments. I am happy the Lord Major has given you some time to enjoy yourself." She noticed that Vera went off up the stairs to her cabin, but since Jo was sure she was well put together, she figured she would meet them in the dining hall. "I am quite famished. I do hope the food on this ship is as good as I've had here in Egypt. Do you need to be somewhere else, darling or would you like to accompany me to meet the others in the dining hall?"

---

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Faye Masterson

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Location: Stairs to Lower Deck -> Lower Deck
Skills: N/A

---

That was just it. What did Faye truly have back home that would make her wish to return so quickly? She had a job (somewhat), but she was often looked own upon for both her age and gender. Plus, most tended to follow Richard's steps in their belief of the supernatural. So work tended to be scarce unless something awful happened. "You will pardon me if I wish to remain here for as long as possible. I don't have much back home. I was lucky I even landed this job and not any of my cohorts of the male persuasion. It took some know-how and some effort to get here."

She could understand Richard's hesitancy though. She felt awful the man was more comfortable back in New York of all places rather than Egypt. But she could hardly blame him. "I miss home, of course, but there is something about this place. Egypt is one of many places on Earth that have an aura of mystery about it. A goal of mine is to explore them all. So, I may not be staying in Egypt per se, but I do not wish to go back to the States so quickly."

[ONL]

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Mahendra Huq Zalil

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Location: Second Deck -> Personal Cabin
Skills: N/A

---

Every step up the staircase was a hill getting steeper and steeper as Mahendra went up. Thankfully it wasn't so long as to fatigue him completely, but once he stepped onto the Second Deck, he was visibly tired from the ordeal. The burning pain had already given his cheeks a red tint, but now they were ever more distinct as beads of sweat gently congregated around the Bengali's fine moustache. But they were on the right floor now, so he didn't complain. "Elite Deck? THat is very, what is the word...luxurious? Perfect for such a kind lady as you, Lauren." Mahendra was more than happy with his own room's level of stature, but he gave Lauren a polite smile back. She probably had good karma after taking such good care of her.

"No, I think it...yes, right here." They had moved down a corridor filled with various cabins for the ship's passengers, and soon Mahendra saw the his designated room. It was on the port-side of the steamboat, not that it mattered to him but it was nice to know in-case he got lost. As Lauren asked if he wanted her to bring hime some leftovers from the current meal, Mahendra's polite smile turned into one of a surprise. "Would you do that for me? Rhada keep watch over you Lauren, that would be very nice of you. Yes please." Mahendra thanked her, slowly letting go of her assistance and staggering to his room, opening the door. "Thank you again, Lauren. I think I shall rest now. Until later..." He finished up their friendly conversation and got into his room.

Mahendra didn't pay much attention to the room assigned to him; he noticed it was fairly comfortable taking into account that it was on a steamboat, the balcony out on portside, and most importantly the bed. In a manner of a man he'd been through quite a lot that day, he took of his shoes and whatever jacket he'd been wearing, and sat down on the bed. It didn't take very long for him to lay down on the pillow, close his eyes and drift away.

---

Richard Barker

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Location: Second Deck: Stairs to Lower Deck -> Lower Deck
Location: N/A

---

"Look kid, I'm not your baby-sitter or bodyguard down here..." Richard started to say to Faye as they made their way down the stairs, past the countless passengers of all kinds of shapes, sizes, colours and dubious backgrounds going the other way. "If you want to stay here after we're done, I'm not stopping you." Passing a couple of people who found it in their best interest to stare at Richard and his nose, the detective found it best to cover it with his hand like he'd done so many times before, and try to face Faye as much he could.

"You're good, whatever it is you call what you do, but good. But listen to the old dog when he smells trouble. It's a bad, bad world out there, kid, just be ready for that." He doubted her beliefs more than he doubted her skills, but he'd seen all too many idealistic young gals get flushed down and ripped to pieces in a dark underworld that cared little for their well-being. Especially those days, when they were so brace. He didn't want Faye ending up that way, not on his watch.

Down in the Lower Deck, Richard was met with a familiar atmosphere from home; loads of people all crammed up like Swedish sardines in a can two sizes too small, all talking loudly about God knows what. It was just like being home in the subway or an elevator, but with more food. Richard looked from Faye and over to the buffet-table(ish), figuring they'd have to get food and drinks before finding a seat, and then back to his female partner. "Ready to explore what the mysterious Egyptian cuisine has to offer then?"