[IC] F I N A L L Y - L I B E R A T E D

[beyond visions]

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Theo Callahan & Cassandra Voss

Collab between @beyond visions and @Heretic

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SYML - Fear of the Water

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<sub>"My sweetest Lesbia, let us live and love,
And though the sager sort our deeds reprove,
Let us not weigh them. Heaven’s great lamps do dive
Into their west, and straight again revive,
But soon as once set is our little light,
Then must we sleep one ever-during night.

If all would lead their lives in love like me,
Then bloody swords and armor should not be;
No drum nor trumpet peaceful sleeps should move,
Unless alarm came from the camp of love.
But fools do live, and waste their little light,
And seek with pain their ever-during night.

When timely death my life and fortune ends,
Let not my hearse be vexed with mourning friends,
But let all lovers, rich in triumph, come
And with sweet pastimes grace my happy tomb;
And Lesbia, close up thou my little light,
And crown with love my ever-during night."

-Thomas Campion-</sub>

---

Gingerly as he could, Theo rested the necked bowl lute in his enlarged grasp. Strumming scarred fingers through its strings, he played the notes of a song whose lyrics he did not understand. "My Sweetest Lesbia," it was written by Thomas Campion in the sixteenth century. Delicacy was key to this song, the beauty of its rhythm often lied in the variation of line-length. Theo played only by ear, since reading sheets of music frankly felt impossible to him. If it were not for his future wife, he would not be bothering with rehearsing the day before the wedding. Though because he did care, Theo conversed with the muses three months before, swearing that he would learn any song they believed would be fitting for serenading during the night of the wedding so as long as he could borrow one of their instruments. He supposed this could be his chance to express a more soft and gentle side, contradicting his gigantic reckless reputation.

But here's the thing, Theo is not soft nor gentle. Passionate and playful he is, but his own nature couldn't allow the facade.

Frustration boiled as notes were missed, this was followed by grunting in irritation. Theo finally snapped as a string from the lute broke. Vexed to his own breaking point, Theo bellowed, howled, and roared, pummeling the lute against the surface of his desk, until wooden fibers of the desk split open. Only seeing red, Theo turned to throw what was left of the lute, but upon turning he stubbed his toe against the chair he was just sitting in. Now his rage blending with pain, his hollering was prolonged as he jumped, gripping his sore foot. Though as he jumped, his head hammered against the ceiling.

Finally, losing his balance he just fell, crashing his heavy body against the floorboards of his bedroom."CASS!" He cried for his right-hand, with the neck of the lute, detached from its body and curled in his right hand."CASS!" he yelled again, but louder and purposefully much more whinier. He could distantly hear her responding that she was coming, but just to be annoying he continued yelling, "CASSANDRA HURRY UP! CASSANDRA!"

His toe bruised into purple due to the stubbing, and dots of blood spurted from where he banged his head. Theo was intentionally being such a baby, crying for his right-hand because he had a boo-boo.

"Jee-sus! What do you want?"

Cassie suddenly burst through Theo's door, half-expecting to find the man deep into his work and frustrated because something had gone wrong. But although the latter was true, the whiny expression on Theo's face, coupled with the bruised toe and the fresh blood coming out of a wound in his head told her everything she needed to know as she surveyed the mess that was currently his room.

"Did you seriously smash their instrument in a fit of rage because your monster-sized hands were too big for it?" Cassie couldn't help but smile, looking down at Theo who of course was looking nearly as distressed as someone who was about to be sentenced to death. She knelt beside him, grabbing whatever was leftover of the instrument as she inspected his head. "A few stitches will fix that," Cassie then looked up at the ceiling, noticing the blood stains and what she could have sworn to be a small crack, "but not that. Come on you big baby," she pulled on his arm, although obviously he would have to help himself up since there wasn't any chance in hell she was about to pull a muscle because of him.

Cassie tossed the piece of the instrument to the side since there was no use in being gentle with it anymore. She pulled up a chair for Theo, patting the seat for him as she flashed him a wicked grin. "We're going to play doctor, but let me warn you now, this doctor doesn't play nice." Ignoring his annoyed stared she could sense a mile away without even looking at him, Cassie walked across the room to fetch for his first-aid kit. "A piece of advice, Callahan," she continued, returning to his side with the items she needed to sew his wound shut, "don't get too worked up over the wedding. In my honest opinion, Isabel is a very lucky lady to have you...and yes you may not be able to play her a song tomorrow like you wanted, but you have the rest of your life to learn how to do so." Cassie's voice had softened a bit, mainly because she was feeling heartbroken and depressed that this would be the last day she would spend with Theo as an unmarried man. After tomorrow, she wouldn't be needed as much given that his wife would be taking care of him.

"You're going to be fine, trust me," she said, her voice a bit shaky as she struggled to keep her emotions in check, something that rarely happened to her.

Completely oblivious to the personal feelings she hinted to, Theo misthought that Cassie grew unsteady due to the political discord the marriage could induce. "Of course I'm going to be fine!" he snapped back at her, jumping from his seat into a defensive position. He mistranslated what she said and instead took it as her doubting his decision for the alliance. If anyone bit back the most crap from Theo, it was Cassie. Every word he spoke to her was raw, never sugar-coated. But it was because of that reason that Cassie knew Theo could never lie to her, or even bottle up his thoughts from her. "I know the Masterminds aren't cool with it! But they aren't stopping us! You don't think I have thought hard and long about this decision? Well I have, so don't doubt me, Cassie!"

His sudden outburst made Cassie take a step back with needle and thread still in hand. She simply stood there as Theo went on his tirade, taking the scolding as if she were a child. Her hand twitched, but she bit her lip and came to terms with the fact that she had pressed one of his buttons yet again, and his brute attitude was simply the result.

"I'm not doubting you!" Cassie shouted half-heartedly, the willingness to argue with him nearly absent as she was growing more frustrated by the minute. "But what more do you want me to do? Congratulate you? NOT fucking happening!"

Cassie turned her back to him as she started to pace the room. "It's not like you'd give me a shot, but I hope that if I were your wife, then maybe you'd treat me better!"

Cassie threw the needle at the wall, then headed for the door. She didn't say anything further as she wanted Theo to sort himself out. She didn't mind being on the receiving end of his angry outbursts, but it was terribly hard for her to pretend to be happy for him only to be slapped in the face.

Even though by rank Theo was her superior, he has never reprimanded her for barking back at him, since it was not too long ago that he was taking orders from her. But in her fiery reaction, Theo realized that she was not speaking in terms of politics. Cassie had opened a door for Theo, one that he had locked himself out of due to utter fear that if he did enter it, he would be greeted by rebuffs. "W-Wait, Cass, I didn't mean it like that!" In his attempt to chase after her, Theo accidentally crammed his purple stubbed toe into the leg of the chair that he was just sitting in. "GARGH--HOLD--GAH--UP!" Falling against his back again and gripping his toe, Theo quickly rolled over to his knees and began crawling after Cassie. As he approached her on all fours, Theo grabbed her ankle with both of his hands, lightly tickling her as he nuzzled his beard against her sun-kissed skin. "Don't leave! I'm sorry, Cass..." He paused, looked up at her, and in his softest voice he asked, "Y-You've always wanted me to give you a chance? I didn't think you wanted to end up with a vanguard, all of our lives are so... temporary."

Cassie stopped, using her free foot for leverage given that Theo had quite the grip on her ankle. She shifted slightly to make eye contact with him, her mind a mess of emotions which she did not know how to approach. But he seemed genuinely surprised to find out that she had feelings for him. Unfortunately, it took him this long to figure it out, the day before his damn wedding.

“Don’t you think I know that?” she replied, a hint of frustration in her voice, “Look around you, currently everyone on this Earth has unwillingly been given a death sentence. It’s just a matter of surviving and somehow making the best of it...maybe with the right person.” Cassie crouched down, one by one pulling his fingers back to undo the intense grip he had her. She then took his calloused hands into hers as she sat cross-legged a few inches away from him.

“I’m not going anywhere, Theo. I’ll be right here for as long as I can.”

With her hand nesting in his palm, he kissed her knuckles. And then nonchalantly Theo blurted, "Time to cancel the wedding." Of course that was impulse talking-- thinking with his heart rather than his head. But there was nothing he could do about it, contracts were signed and the alliance was official. Theo was practically already married to Isabel the moment he signed those documents, the wedding ceremony was only a way to mask the politics. He did have the other option to divorce her now. But that would tear at the vanguard's reputation, raising speculation that the faction is led by an unstable Spartan. Doing something like that could have Theo overthrown. "We should get married tomorrow!" He seemed so excited, but the scariest part about it was that he seemed so serious, not thinking about what it could cost him.

"Theo..." she sighed, an inner struggle within her forming as one half urged her to push him to cancel the wedding as soon as possible while the other half told her that there wasn't anything positive coming out of that little stunt. Unfortunately, she was his right hand, and part of her job was to always have his back and help him make the right decision in order to welcome the best possible outcome for their people. "You and I both know that if you cancel the wedding then the relationship we have with The Muses is going to go downhill very fast. Hell, the same could probably be said with the rest of them as well. We can't afford to have those targets painted on our back, you know what I mean? I'd rather have you alive married to Isabel than being hunted down because we wanted to be together. I'm selfish, but not to the point where I'd sacrifice the one person I...care for." Cassie refrained from saying the term "love" because she knew it would further complicate an already delicate situation. "I want to be with you, I really do, but I'm afraid it's too late now."

Cassie invited Theo to sit up so she could give him a hug. It was killing her to think that this was probably the last time she'd be this close to him.

Sometimes he would wonder if it should be Cassie that wears his Spartan helmet, that it should be her that is tied between an alliance or freedom, and that it should be her on the other side of this embrace. He was a man of action, but without her, he would be destroyed by reckless passion.

Nearing closer to her with each knee scooting past the other, Theo rested his head against her shoulder. Everyone always felt so light in his arms, but not this time. Her heavy heart beating against his chest caused his shoulders to slump, outweighed by his own sorrow. No words left his lips. The only sound from his mouth was a soft humming, and she knew exactly what that meant when he hums. It was a habit he developed with a face smeared in blood or dusted by the particles of rotting flesh. It was what a mother would do to a coddled infant who couldn't stop crying.

---

The Day of the Wedding Festival

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Only a few moments before the sun would rise, Theo awoke to the sound of Cassie knocking on his bedroom door. She woke him up just in time to get ready for the big day. He could hear her in the distance on the other side of that door, yet he was far too groggy to make out her words. It was early, perhaps around 5 AM. This was not just the day of the wedding, this was the day of the wedding festival. Nothing like two factions marrying each other in an alliance had ever been done, thus such an extravagant event like a festival seemed proper. First things first, the day started with the wedding couple meeting each other right before the sun would rise. Theo was preparing himself for step one before meeting Isabel at the center spot of the colony. This was an area that basically acted as the town-square for Churchill, it is here at sunset that they will say their vows.

Rising upwards from his bed, Theo noticed a tux lying against his covers. He was not quite sure who put that there, whether it be Cassie who was suggesting he wear something decent in front of the muses, or the muses themselves. Though, he simply laughed and muttered, "You've got to be joking..." Shaking his head, Theo retrieved a pair of his khaki cargo shorts from his dresser.

After dressing himself, he faced the mirror in his room to see his final appearance before meeting Isabel: his usual cargo shorts, combat boots, and vanguard dog-tag. But as he watched his reflection, Theo whispered to himself, "Wait I'm missing something..." On the top of his nightstand, Theo grabbed his Spartan helmet, placing it over his head. "Now, I'm ready to take on the world..."

[beyond visions]

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Theo Callahan & Isabel MacGilios

Collab between @beyond visions and @Vashonn

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''Hazy Shade of Winter'' by Hidden Citizens (feat. Jaxson Gamble)

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Slowly Theo stepped through Colony Square as he walked down the aisle, taking in the muse-crafted, ornate wedding arch. The chairs that surrounded the arch would no longer be empty at sunset. Observing the setting of his future wedding, Theo stared at two figures standing beneath that arch. The first was a seven foot male, bulking and shirtless, the other was female, but not Isabel. No, this other woman blinked with hazel and blue eyes that Theo could never forget even if plagued with amnesia. Theo shook his head, stirring away the alternate fantasy from his mind.

This can only be as good as you make it.

His inner voice vibrated in his mind and his heart in the form of the kind of encouragement he could grip, that he will grip. He had to let go of Cassie and cling to Isabel. The only way this thought would matter is if it was more than just a thought and instead a feeling. Action was the answer if that was to ever happen.

Thus, instantly as Theo heard footsteps behind him, he tugged and threw off his Spartan helmet before racing towards Isabel. It seemed to her that in mere seconds, Theo was literally sweeping her off her feet. And while she was in his arms, Theo leaned his forehead against hers whispering, "Hi, wifey." Was he tempted to have a Phantom of Opera moment and rip off her mask? Yes, but he understood how his passion could translate as disrespect to a muse.

As it was with any major occasion, the illustrious Renaissance was outfitted in distinguished apparel, though this day was clearly one of the most important she had ever known. As such, Isabel was especially bedazzled with elaborate extravagence, the likes of which that had been worked upon my the most gifted seamstresses within the colony, to best accentuate the young woman's delicate beauty. A long, red-pasteled gown flowed to the ground as she stepped gingerly down the aisle toward the man who she was destined to marry that upcoming evening. In a great flash, however, Isabel's senses were quickly sent into disarray as she felt her body lifted, and land upon the two muscular arms of Theodore.

Staring up in slight shock, Isabel felt the gargantuanly-sized man touch his head to hers, letting the brief greeting fall upon dainty, deaf ears. After a brief moment, Isabel shifted her gaze into Theodore's vision, their bright blue eyes meeting one another just barely an inch apart. "Well, I... Certainly wasn't expecting that," though her tone came across as sarcastic, her expression remained stuck on a mixture of confusion and mild shock. Lifting her arms around Theo's neck, Isabel locked her fingers together, more as a means of extra support lest she fall rather than in a romantic sense.

Theo chuckled, feeling her arms snug around his neck. "Hey... Don't worry I won't drop you," he reassured her kindly. "Can I kiss you?" he asked directly, impulse pumping through his veins. Isabel felt a wave of heat pass over her face, knowing that her pale-white skin was turning a bright red from the sudden request. Eyes widening further, she stuttered slightly, trying to stammer out her words in as respectable a manner as she could muster.

"I-- I would th-- think it best if, well-- we are only a short ways from our wedding," her flustered speech only showed a glimpse of the racing thoughts going through Isabel's mind, unsure of how best to address the situation, especially concerning how she was being held a good distance from the ground. "I mean-- it isn't I wouldn't like to, its only..." Isabel's face reddened even further, not sure of how to go about her next statement. "I, ehm, haven't much experience in such matters." Keeping her eyes locked with Theodore's, Isabel tried her best to calm herself, but felt her heart beginning to race as their lips still remained only inches apart.

"Ah, well if it is your first kiss, then I'll wait till the--" Tenderly, Theo pecked her on the lips. "Ha, me wait? Now, that's funny. But that wasn't a real kiss, we'll save that for under the arch, in front of everyone... in front of the materminds..." Theo snarled as he said the fanction's name. Though he brought them up simply because they were nuisance to him, stressing that this marriage could only be a political affair. He so badly wanted to prove them wrong.

"No, no. I bet you're tired of hearing about it. I won't bring up anything political." After the kiss, as careful as reckless Theo could, he softly landed her back down on her feet. "Today, is all about us, remember that." Once she was back to her feet, Theo offered Isabel his elbow for her to grapple her hand around as they began their stroll through the colony that remained asleep at such an early hour.

Unsure of how best to respond to the incredibly brief kiss, Isabel remained silent as she placed her feet delicately upon the ground, taking hold of Theodore's elbow lightly as they began walking away from where they were destined to meet again that evening. The sky remained dark and still twinkled with the occassional star as the twilight hours began creeping toward sunrise, filling the air with a cool breeze that just brushed lightly at Isabel's tightly knotted hair, stirring up a few strays that landed across her face. She did little to adjust them, letting their soft ends tickle at her cheek as they continued to stroll, waiting patiently for her companion to speak first.

"I broke your lute..." he said a matter-of-factly. "By... accident... because of... anger." Theo pressed his lips together in a puff up expression weighing in between a smile and a frown. "Um... Yeah... this is why I'm not allowed to go inside your guys' gallary... without supervision." Perhaps Isabel was not quite familiar with the fact that Theo could be such a manchild, though he hoped she would find it more endearing rather than bothersome.

Though the immediate statement had caused her to frown a bit in disappointment, as Theo continued on, Isabel felt her mood lighten significantly, even causing her to let out a short snicker at the final phrase he had spoken. Feeling a tad bit embarrased at having laughed at Theo, Isabel collected herself to respond. "I suppose the lute can be repaired, or at the very most, replaced. I imagine it held more sentiment with the crafter, but we don't need to tell him what happened to it," Isabel smiled softly, placing her feet carefully as they continued along.

"The Gallery is certainly lovely... I'll be putting a new work in there soon, if I can make my peace with how it turned out," Isabel's eyes fell as she remembered the painting she had been working on over the last several months, each thought of it making her want to only cut it up and start again. Declan - dearest Declan, the only one she could trust - told her it was perfect, but she felt something was off about the way the thin, dry layers of paint were stuck to the canvas. She had stared at this same painting for hours the previous day, looking for where it went wrong, what she could try and fix. Isabel shook her head as she felt her mind wander away, trying to remain focused on her conversation.

"If it would please you, I could always go with you to the Gallery, and keep the sculptures from popping out and frightening you!" Isabel laughed, hoping the man would recognize she only meant her words to be taken in jest.

"Hah!" Theo laughed loudly. Isabel did not poke fun at him nearly as hard as did the vanguards, or even just Cassie for that matter. Humor, even if it was in the form of teasing, is what carry those soldiers to survive, or at least forget fear for a mere moment. "I bet that's Tinkerbell's-- I mean Declan's work." That was as much as Theo knew when it came to Isabel's right-hand other than his skills in acting and what crime he commited. A convict's crime was regularly known by others, because one way or another someone always finds out. But even though it is common to know another's past crime, it is also common courtesy to never hold it against that person, or at least not bring it up in front of them. "Since I'm such a towering figure myself, maybe you should put a statue of me in there. Say yes right now and I'll pose nude for it later," Theo joked as he flexed his arms, striking a pose before her.

Pausing for a moment to scan the large, muscular figure, Isabel blushed just slightly as she blinked the vision from her mind before turning her gaze back down the path they had been travelling. "How tempting of a proposition... Perhaps I'll have to consult Tinkerbell about having him model you," putting emphasis on the demeaning nickname, Isabel began walking away slowly, almost sounding patronizing as she finished speaking. She meant no harm by it, of course, though she hoped pointing out this minor blemish would keep similar mishaps from occurring in the future. If she was to be married to this man, he would have to at least attempt to be considerate of her own feelings, if only just slightly.

"Ha... Heh... heh," Theo awkwardly laughed, trying to take what she said for humor, though he could obviously notice that she was not quite so fond of the nickname. In fact, she seemed annoyed by it, and not in a good way. As they continued strolling through the colony, Theo briefly glanced down at Isabel. Yo... This chick really isn't Cassie... that thought was not revelation for him, his next thought was, Yeah... I better stop treating her like she is.

It was with that thought that insecurity brought tingles down his spine, causing him to straighten up and stiffen up. Especially now that he felt so under-dressed compared to his bride, for she was fashioned in a fine red gown, whereas Theo was shirtless in cargo shorts and combat boots.

The soon sun rose, and thus the sunlight signaled that it was time for them to make their way to the theater, to which they would watch a play.

---

With heavy eyelids, his head repeatedly dropped downwards followed by Theo bolting his head back up during the progression of the play. In all of his attempts to keep himself conscious while seated at the very front of the theater, he lacked the strength to do so. It was throughout the performance of Declan's original play that Theo snored in his unwanted slumber, his head leaning against Isabel's shoulder.

Isabel sat calmly alongside the large Spartan, allowing him to drift in and out from slumber throughout the entirety of one of Declan's finer works, knowing that she shouldn't have expected nearly as much enthusiasm for the dramas in someone who crafts his own art with the barrel of a gun. Several times she noticed a few members of the cast on stage glancing down upon the couple, frequently with a look of disgust toward Theodore and worry toward Isabel, as if she would be tainting the great gift she had by marrying someone of his character. Isabel simply smiled back to them, once even letting her small, delicate hand slip under Theodore's thick, leathery palm in defiance of their scowls.

Despite the Muses' apparent disdain, Isabel knew that for the most part, they were in support of the decision she had made. She had heard gossip among some of them already wondering if there were plans for a child, to which Isabel responded with bright-red cheeks and a dismissal to her chambers. She knew that some of the women Muses even hoped for there to be a child coming from the marriage, in hopes to prepare another great festival for its birth.

All of the attention she had been receiving from the other Muses recently had elevated well beyond what was usual, drawing time away from her work as she met them for feasts and social gatherings, always being asked of what her plans were for the marriage, and whether she was worried of what the Masterminds would say. To every question she would respond as vaguely and as pleasantly as she could manage, though now that the marriage was officially set for that day, she knew that soon enough she would be confronted by even the Masterminds as to what she hoped to achieve from this endeavor, beyond the alliance between the two factions that was being formed, as well as have to attend even more gatherings, which would take away even more time from her projects.

Isabel shook her head as she caught her mind wandering yet again, bringing her back into reality. The play was drawing to a close, as the King's son was pronounced dead - this was one of Declan's great Tragedies - and the many actors that had performed all clambered onto the stage for the ending lines. Isabel shook her shoulder a bit, hoping to stir Theodore from his slumber, as it would only be fair for him to at least applaud their performance, despite the fact he probably had no idea what the play was even about.

Even with her nudging Theo remained in his sleep. It was not until the the applause vibrating throughout the theater that Theo awoke, though not gracefully, not even in the slightest bit. It was not the sound of clapping that initially clicked inside of his head, it was gun shots. Theo battled with his own trauma as he gasped in shock. It was by his war-torn reflexes that he gripped Isabel's shoulder, the person nearest to him that by instincts struck him with the fear to fight for his life lest his throat be slit in his sleep.

After staring into her blue eyes, realizing this was no face-painted Outsider, Theo loosened his grip till letting go and slowly easing back to join in on the applause. Isabel stared back for a moment, her brow pressing down to a worried expression that kept her from glancing back toward the performers, where the Muses directly in front of them were looking quizzically at the scene below them, but continued to bow through the applause.

As the curtains dropped and the other members of the audience began to disappear through the door to the world outside, Isabel remained seated as she kept her gaze locked upon Theo, keeping silent as the noise of the hall began to dim. Her shoulder began to feel stiff and ache, as the pressure the man had put on it with his hand had been so immense. Isabel shifted slightly, knees aimed toward Theo's legs, her hand pressed against the armrest separating the two of them.

"Shall... Shall we continue on, then?" A gentle smile worked its way onto Isabel's lips, trying to ease the strange tension that had grown in the air around the couple.

"Yeah... Um--," Before Theo was spared the chance to choke out another single word, the haunting echo of a bell rung distantly throughout all of Churchill. Theo bounced out of his seat, panting harder now with blue eyes that bugged out with both fear and slight blood-lust. That was a bell from the colony' watch tower located right by the gate entrance. The ringing of the bell equaled the presence of an unwelcome visitor, a visitor that could potentially be an outsider or an army of them. "So, wifey," Theo spoke sharply with volume raised, not as gentle or soft as he spoke during their stroll. "You have three options because I'm storming out of here one way or another to see why in the world that bell was rung. Option one: You can run like hell and try to keep up with me. Option two: I can carry you out of here, or option three: You can stay here. Make your choice now."

Isabel sat still for just a moment, her thoughts beginning to race as to what the bell's toll meant. Though it was faint, there was a mixture of shouts and orders being announced by figures running around outside of the theater, which only allowed her mind to spin faster. Taking a deep breath, Isabel stood from her seat, a determination ablaze in her eyes. "I'm going with you," she let out in a huff, taking Theodore's hand in hers. "Though, I'd rather you not carry me around like a child, if you wouldn't mind."

"Actually I'm your husband, let me be hella heroic," Theo hooked his large hands under her slender arms, lifting Isabel against his broad bulging chest before cradling. "Buckle up." And though he put the effort to not bulldoze over anyone, a giant like himself cannot afford to be absolutely graceful, especially in such a frantic circumstance. With Isabel's ear pressed against his heart, she could clearly hear like a war drum the booming beats amidst his adrenaline.

"You bumpkin, put me down!" Isabel glanced about with wide eyes as the world around her zoomed by, making her a tad bit nauseous. Granted, at this speed they were set for their destination a good deal quicker than if she had simply ran on her own, but she still felt frustrated by how Theodore had blatantly refused her request. She didn't necessarily want to cause any offense, but if this kept up, she didn't know what else would work.

"But the train doesn't stop here," Theo continued carrying her until he locked eyes with his First Sentinel. "Sheriff, what the hell is going on?" as he questioned the British cowboy, Theo released Isabel from his arms by steadily positioning her back on her, "Was you not using your feet really that bad?" he muttered under his breath while landing her down.

Isabel stepped away from Theo with a puff of air escaping her lips, lifting her hands to comb the hair from her eyes that had swept into her face during the run. Glancing about, Isabel noticed how out of place she appeared, as most of the other colonists had fled indoors, leaving mostly the brutishly clad Vanguard outside to protect the camp. Isabel took a step back, placing herself beside Theodore, folding her hands together in silent observance of what was occurring.

Theo turned around to only burst with laughter. "HAH! Ha! Didn't think we were expecting you? Regret hooking up those Collective monitors into OUR little humble abode?" Yes, the colony, and specifically Theo was well aware of the aggressive decay, for when Churchill was first settled, the Collective believed that though the convicts are located on another planet, they are still apart of the nation, Collective news would remind them of that. Collective television screens were present in each of the faction's hideouts. Catching his breath in between his yelling and laughing, Theo lowered his volume "I knew if you dropped in any earlier than three months, then it obvious, the Overseers are screwed with the last resort of what? Oh wait-- the colony they have been PISSING on for EIGHTEEN years!" Theo marched over to the one and only Captain Overseer, "Aw... The Big Bad Wolf ain't so big and bad now, is he?!" Theo patted Thrax's head, petting him with mockery and fake pity.

[Kingfisher]

---

Tiberius Thrax

Collab between Kingfisher and his good friend himself

---

Thrax’s crimson uniform always seemed to be stained with ash. He kept himself healthy, and his attire crisp, but a stray flek from his cigarette would often worm its way through the air, leaving a small white smear on the otherwise pristine suit of red.

The Captain of the Overseers took one last drag from his cigarette, feeling the grimy rush of nicotine flood back into his lungs, before casting it to the ground, and stomping out the final hiss of flame with the heel of his boot.

Brandon Karras rounded the corner a few moments later, slipping into a patch of artificial light, and wading over to the smooth stone wall that Thrax was stood by. He was a tall, broad man. Bigger than Thrax, with coarse brown hair, and a scarred face.

“You’re brave to come alone.” Karras grinned, flashing a sharp, white smile.

“I could say the same for you.” Thrax replied in his usual dry manner.

“You trying to scare me, hawk?” Karras snapped, something feral flashing in his dull grey eyes.

“What’s this all about, Karras?” Thrax asked calmly, unflinching in his demeanor “I can’t just slip away without being noticed.”

“Thought I might call in a little favour, Thrax,” Karras said with a dark smirk “given how me and the boys helped you out with Mister McGarth, ‘un all.”

Thrax sighed internally.

“I don’t have time for this, Karras. Order needs to be maintained.”

“Oh, you’ll make time for me, father hawk,” the large man hissed “or there will be repercussions.”

Thrax paused, slipping both hands into his pockets.

“Was that a threat, Karras?” He asked, raising one eyebrow.

“You bet it was, hawk.”

Thrax’s eyes flickered shut, as he afforded himself one brief moment to simply relax and breath.

“That’s all I needed to know.”

With a flash of steel, Tiberius Thrax bolted forwards, the blade of his combat knife swooping through the air, as it came sweeping out of his coat pocket. Before Karras could react, the cold, sharp steel was biting into his neck, digging through flesh, whilst an eruption of dark red blood bubbled out of the neat tear that the blade had made.

Karras swayed, but Thrax caught him as he fell, wrapping his arms around the larger man’s body, and slowly easing him to the ground.

“That was a rather stupid thing to say, Karras,” Thrax sighed, as the convict coughed and jolted, blood trickling out of his mouth “and I’m afraid it's cost you dearly.”

---

About a week or so later, Thrax was taking a drag from his third cigarette of the day, stood not too far from one of the Muse's theatres, as a steady procession of colonists began to file into cover, spurred on by the dull ringing of one of the colony's watch bells.

Out of the rabble came Callahan, the so-called "Spartan King" of the Vanguard.

"Aw... The Big Bad Wolf ain't so big and bad now, is he?!", the Spartan chuckled, patting Thrax on the head.

"How about you keep your hands on that lovely wife of yours, and away from me, Callahan?" Thrax snapped, shrugging the vanguard off "Last time I spoke to one of you types I was a hawk, but now it seems I'm a wolf. If only your kind were half as good at doing your job, as you were at forgetting which type of animal you've decided to brand me as."

[Apollosarcher]

Reno Wylde

Reno, commonly known as Tombstone to the locals sat in the bar around with a crowd of workers who had set up a blackjack game. Currently the sheriff was bankrupting the locals of the scavenged tech they bet, the sheriff using whiskeys as his bet. Almost every man in town found one way or another to play with Reno Wylde because beating him meant a bottle of the good stuff.

The rundown saloon looked like something out of wild west movie, with its own stills in the back to produce the moonshine the workers downed when they came here for music. Some nights a muse or two would perform but usually the place had the local band play, some nights before he started drinking Reno would borrow a guitar play with the band. Others when drunk he'd sit at the piano and play tunes for the whole bar, even lead them in some of easier tunes.

However currently Tombstone was cleaning up, already winning himself parts for a new air filter for his home, and the bottle Jack Daniels Old number seven still firmly planted on the table. However holding a losing hand, he frowned and just before the dealer could make the call for the flip it happened. A man came rushing in, a messenger, young boy couldn't have much over eighteen. "Sir! Sheriff!" He panted running up to the table the dust cover boy said pulling down the bandanna on his face coughing. "The Wardens here... Thrax himself, someone sent for Theo to go meet him."

"Awww hell! Melody, keep my winnings behind the counter." He grabbed the bottle pulling on his long coat on and resting his hat upon his head. The crowd at the table jeered, but knew this could turn bad in an instant if the sheriff wasn't around. He pulled his double barrel from its spot at on Charlotte's saddle loading two rounds of buck shot as gave his horse a kick. She started right towards Theo and Thrax as the sheriff held his shotgun, as usual it would be up him to play peacemaker.

The horse cantered to a stop just before the two men, the shotgun plain to see to both of them. He knew both had a temper, and did not like one another so getting off the horse slowly shotgun clutch down by his side. A bottle of Jack Daniel in hand as he looked between them. "Gentlemen! I have brought refreshments... Why don't we talk away from the ash? Enjoy some fine liquor while we have a friendly chat." He looked to the giant man as if to tell him to calm down, because where Thrax additional collective soldiers were sure to follow.

[beyond visions]

---

Theo Callahan

---

In response to Thrax, Theo laughed with a low-toned laugh heavy to vibrate into the captain's ears."No, no, you and I both know there's a difference between a wolf and hawk..." Theo turned his steps towards Lieutenant Alfred Vanderbilt. "You see, this is a hawk." Alfie quivered in discomfort and surprise as he felt an abrupt firm grip collapse on his shoulders, Theo's chin leaned against the side of his brow, standing behind the young man in his early twenties. "So cute in the little crimson uniform." Proceeding to mock and taunt, Theo snatched Alfie's side cap, before placing it on his buzz-cut shaven head. "Aw, how long did you polish that pendent?" Circling around Alfie, he pinched at the Lieutenant's sliver hawk pinned against his chest. "I bet you ironed this suit yourself, didn't you little Alfie? Gotta have that Overseer pride. Gotta keep the uniform free from stains, can't get blood on your hands." Theo directed a glare at Thrax, "Not like a wolf, overthrowing alpha." Theo slapped the side cap against Alfie's jet hairs, before making a path towards Corporal O'Hare. "Surprised he didn't even make you beta. Nah, he's gotta keep the brown-noser on top. Little Alfie is his favorite."

With that said, immediately the Sheriff arrived on horseback. As he offered Theo the liquor, the Spartan simply responded with, "I was planning on getting drunk after the vows, or during-- Ha!" Theo glanced as his wife, hoping for a smile, however Isabel did not seem amused. "It's too early in the morning for that, Sheriff." Theo began walking back towards the Overseers, "Besides, I only drink when there's something to celebrate." He stopped in his tracks. "Wait, there is something to celebrate." Theo clutched the bottle from the Sheriff's hand, raising it up, and giving a toast, "To being finally liberated!"

---

The Spartan and the Renaissance entered the muse war room, as all faction had their own war rooms to discuss any official matters in privacy. The two powerful leaders were accompanied by their right-hands. All of them surrounded the enormous circular mahogany table covered with a map of London. Normally, with any circumstances that concern the safety of the colony, such as the topic of intruders, the vanguards would be in charge of what action to take. However, because of the newly formed alliance, vanguard matters are muse matters, vice versa.

"So, wifey, here is how it should be done. I take the Captain and the Corporal, you can decide what to do with Vanderbilt. Thrax and O'Hare are responsible for the riot that had some of my own soldiers turning their backs on my orders. It is justice that I be the one to judge the two them." Theo's tone was a mix of sounding authoritative and determined. He was not going to take "no" for an answer. He would not bear it if Isabel denied him his justice.

[beyond visions]

---

Alfie Vanderbilt

---

First, they were escorted into the theater, which was a puzzling thought for Alfie, until the discovery of a trapdoor located behind the stage. Stepping down rung by rung, the Overseers descended down from the ladder until they reached what was vanguard territory. It was then that the lieutenant realized Churchill was much than he once saw it as. He walked much slower than the rest, observing every detail of this underground base, noticing the different paths that led to halls constructed like tunnels while also taking note of the many gun-wielding vanguards. Though firearms are not permitted for the convicts to equip, Alfie was not surprised their hold of secret weapons, the same occurs within fortified prisons, yet on smaller scale with shanks and such, what more can you expect with a penal colony that openly explores the ruins of London.

But even with that suspicion of firearms, before the Collective fell, the Overseers did not fear these guns would ever be turned on them. For if they were, all it simply took was one call for back-up, Collective ships would be teleported to the lunar base, and then flowed over to earth with the deliver of a raging storm of bullets over Churchill.

Feeling the barrel of a sentinel's pistol pressed against his back, Alfie flinched. His surveying costed the patience of the sentinels escorting to them to their cell. Yet, even in his slight fear, the lieutenant was much more closer to calmness as it was Reno who led their path. Alfie felt that he could trust the Sheriff, he was no criminal, unlike the vanguard Spartan leader Theo. But as terrorizing as the thought is, it was a reality, ultimately Callahan would decide what would happen to them. Well, actually with the turn of events, such as the marriage, Isabel's hand was in this matter also. Though that did not make the situation any better. It was general stereotype to assume that all vanguards were murderers, armed robbers, or arms dealers. Whereas, the muses were complete psychopaths and lunatics, the serial-killer type, with the occasional drug-dealer or smuggler to join in.

Alfie supposed that if they were going to stay in Churchill, it would be best to gain the influence of perhaps the most sane faction, the masterminds. They were pure geniuses with crimes of lesser evils such as hacking or drug-dealing. But most of the drug-dealers within this faction did not just deal drugs, they formulated them. They were chemists with a dark side. Alfie needed the masterminds to get involved someway when the time was perfect.

"The lion... held... the mouse by its... tail... toying with it... playing with his food," Alfie opened with a strange allegory once all three of them were locked inside a wide-roomed cell. In the distance as he spoke slowly, softly, deeply, the sound of the barred door shut with the jingle of Reno's keys following after. "Theo...," he muttered. "Leo...," he whispered in rhyme."And I always thought they were the vermin."

As he sat next to Lily, Alfie's back inclined against the stone wall. Thrax was a bit of a distance away from them, peeping out of the cell door, analyzing the guards patrolling the halls. While the captain familiarized himself as much as he could with the underground base, Alfie leaned over to Lily and whispered, "Corporal... Lily... is fear... an emotion I should... berate myself for?" Alfie respected the captain, he honored Thrax by enforcing his orders. Yet, could never share his insecurities or weaknesses with the man, in fear that he would only disappoint his superior and father figure. The only person he allowed to know of his vulnerabilities was Lily. In the lowest of volume but still maintaining to be audible Alfie whispered, "I'm scared."

[Xandrya]

---

Lilliana O'Hare

---

Lily looked over at Alfie, the poor guy clearly conflicted over his own feelings. She smiled softly at him before taking a quick glance over at Thrax. "You kow, you don't have to be ashamed to feel scared. Fear is an emotion we all experience, and a rather important one at that. Think about it, fear is one way we prepare ourselves for danger, the same way a prey does when faced with a predator." She paused for a moment to wonder whether she had made sense, but she knew Alfie was intelligent enough to understand. "To be totally honest, I'm scared as well," she continued, leaning closer to Alfie to be just out earshot, "but it's how we react to the situation that will define whether or not we manage to survive."

Gauging his undecipherable expression to what she had just said, Lily gave him a playful nudge before she whispered "You'll be okay" in a rather low voice. She then rubbed her eyes, the situation they were in slowly getting to her. But rather than allowing Alfie to see her stressed out, she stood up and started pacing around the cell. Thrax still seemed to be lost in his own small world, and she didn't dare disturb him. She knew better than to not respect his own personal space.

"What a time to be alive," she whispered to herself, leaning on the cell door opposite of Thrax, watching the guards make their rounds. When they were first detained, they had found the small bottle of liquor Lily kept on her most of the time, and those bastards even had the nerve to give her a smirk as they opened up the bottle to smell its content. There was a small possibility that she could have poisoned the liquor just to spite them, but doing so would have unleashed an immediate retaliation against them, and no small bottle of liquor was worth such trouble.

Her anxiety still not easing, Lily walked back over to where Alfie sat and rejoined him as she got comfortable, bringing up her knees to her chest in a unconscious protective gesture. "Gotta love playing the waiting game."

[Ellion]

---

Declan Terry

---

The war room had never been so tense. To be honest, it had never been used to discuss a war before. Well, a real one anyway. Turf wars were common, but more often than not the room was used to discuss battle on a small scale. Divine and artful moves that accomplish a great task with hardly anyone noticing that anything occurred. After all, people die all the time, even during 'peace'.

Declan, sitting directly to Isabel's right, offered her a china cup, hardly chipped at all, and filled to the brim with a slightly bitter tea. The last thing he needed was for Isabel to vanish or become overly anxious. "Hydration is key in these trying times," he said softly, as Theo started his tiresome rant.

"Theo," said Declan softly, his hand resting just blow his half-faced black and dazzling red mask. "Your offer of Alfie is very tempting and generous knowing the shared history he has with the Muses," he said, letting the statement hang in the air a moment, his hand half reaching out to Isabel, as though to take her hand in comfort, but decided against it at the last moment. "But as we are now united as both Muses and Vanguards, do you think it wise to show such a clear division of justice?" His eyes flicked towards Isabel with the show of asking for permission to continue. "At this time, we need to show that the marriage was more than a stunt to irritate the masterminds and that it is meaningful to the very culture of Churchhill," Declan paused again, taking time to dust off his suit, a suit that looked remarkably similar to the one offered to Theo. "Perhaps Isabel will disagree with me and I am merely playing devils advocate , but don't you think the judgement should appear to fall from a force much stronger than any single faction?"

"A second reason that stands. As absolutely horrid as these men have been, they are still high ranking officials among their own men. The actions we take against them now might very well define the culture of Churchhill for generations to come. As a very closely tied allied, I would sleep better knowing that the punishment and judgement of Tiberius and Lilliana was well thought out and administered in the right way. I refuse to accept that what is to come happens because you were upset when you did it, Theo. After all, the details matter,"

Declan paused again, this time as though reading the room. He then shifted his look, almost judgemental. "To put it simply," he said. "and I am certain that Isabel will have her own opinion on this, but the Muses need to have a say on the fates of Tiberius and Lilliana. Whether that is in public or from behind closed doors has yet to be decided,"

[Kingfisher]

---

Tiberius Thrax

---

Understandably, Tiberius Thrax did not appreciate being locked up in a cell beneath the theatre. The Overseer Captain was far more used to springing traps than being the one caught up in them, and his already lacking fondness for the Spartan was rapidly depleting.

“Keep your heads on straight, everyone,” Thrax ordered, pulling a cigarette out of the carton he kept on him, and igniting it with the click of his lighter “the barbarians have us at an undeniable disadvantage, but nothing we’ve been through worse.”

Thrax slipped the cigarette between his lips, taking a long drag.

“I suppose it's something of a blessing that the marshal is involved,” Thrax grumbled, blowing a plume of white smoke out into the cell “but these up-jumped convicts don’t know who they’re fucking with.”

The Overseer Captain kept his eyes on the guards outside of their cell, watching them stand sentinel in the corridor beyond.

“Keep your wits about you,” Thrax instructed his fellow prisoners “and let me worry about the rest.”

[Vashonn]

---

Iseabal MacGilios

---

Silently, Isabel nodded in deepest thanks to Declan, taking the cup of tea into her hands and wrapping her fingers around the stained porcelain to warm them. Her eyes fluttered closed as she breathed deeply of the steam rising from the drink, letting the scent ease her racing mind as she exhaled. Sipping delicately at the tea, Isabel would shift her eyes back and forth from one character to another, listening to each phrase as it was spoken, yet seeming to focus her attention on each individual as her gaze landed upon them. For the longest time, Isabel kept her vision locked upon the other woman in the room, who she knew only by name - Cassandra Voss, Spartan's right-hand. Indeed, she had heard the rumors that had been circulating between some of the more petty Muses, speaking of Cassandra's possible affection for Theodore, but Isabel never paid it much mind, as she had never witnessed it herself. Still, now that all of them were trapped within the same room, she couldn't help but let her mind wander to the sheer possibility, which she now found to be a tad bit upsetting as she was now to be married to the man in question.

Perhaps to keep from drawing too much attention to herself, Isabel shifted her gaze down toward the table after a short while, sipping again at the tea in her hand, feeling her tongue scrunch in light distaste from the bitter drink. As Declan finished his speech, Isabel blinked and lifted her eyes from the mahogany wood, glancing about the room in silence before finally speaking. "I would think..." she began quietly, before shifting in her chair to sit in a more upright manner. "It certainly would be nice to perhaps try and have the Overseers think better of us, rather than worse. In fact, I think it would do us a service, to show some deal of mercy in their favor, rather than downright destroying any feeble care they have for us.

"Of course, it would be wrong of us to entirely forgive them, after the way we have been treated..." Trailing off, Isabel flinched as the memory of cruel steel striking exposed flesh jumped toward the front of her mind, though she seemed to otherwise keep her composure as she sipped a bit more tea. "But we must also recognize that we are now on equal footing with them. They didn't return to us for any reason beyond seeking our aid. There is certainly an irony to their efforts, I must admit, but it is still commendable that they would do so," Locking eyes with Theo, Isabel continued with a more pressing tone. "I wouldn't want to spoil your fun, darling, so I would think it perhaps best that you do get this last chance at redemption. However, I would also rather you keep your head when doing so, and bring the Captain and Corporal a just trial, and then treat them on equal terms once you are finished. We have no need for more enemies, as the Masterminds may very well soon be just that, if they aren't already.

"As for the Lieutenant..." Isabel once again let her speech fade, looking now toward Declan as she opened her mouth to speak. "I must think on such matters." Tilting her head back slightly, Isabel finished the last bit of her tea before placing it onto the table with a delicate *clink*.

[beyond visions]

---

Theo Callahan & Cassandra Voss

Collab between @beyond visions and @Heretic

---

Zack Hemsey - "Beyond The Throne (Instrumental)"

---

"Not happening!--" were two words choked through gritted teeth and a clenched jaw. "I cocked the gun fifteen times. Pulled the trigger fifteen times. Watched their craniums splatter till the blood caked over their faces, seeping in to their lips, FIFTEEN times!" The veins riddled in his face bulged from the skin due to all facial muscles flexed. "What were those faces to me? Unrecognizable as soon they sold their souls to the devil, defied my orders against the riot, against Captain McGarth's death. I warned them, all fifteen of them. And if I delivered justice fifteen times, don't you dare think I won't do it once for Thrax! You want to control the prisoners that are rightfully mine. Offering the lieutenant wasn't enough for you!" And as if he were intoxicated with consuming anger, Theo dug his finger nails deeper into the fibers of the mahogany surface, until at last when he roared the word, enough, the table crashed against the stone flooring beneath them by Theo's enraged force.

With the table thrown to the side, Theo took heavy marching steps towards Isabel.

"Theo, stop!" Cassie sprung to action, rushing to place herself between the poor defenseless woman and the monster that was closing the distance between them. While it was true that no man or woman should come between a married couple in the midst of whatever discussion they had going on, this was no ordinary situation. With one hand, Cassie pushed Isabel back as far as she could before Theo's brute strength nearly knocked her off her feet.

"I said STOP!" At this point, Cassie was just as furious as Theo, although the cause for such emotion was mainly due to her frustration with her own King and his need to be reckless. Unable to contain herself any better than him at that exact moment, Cassie did the unthinkable and slapped Theo as hard as she could across the face. It was then the room grew quiet, and it was the first time that she truly felt scared to be standing in front of him.

In reaction to the impact, Theo's jaw jerked to the right till his neck dipped down, burying his chin into his shoulder. First, he drug his hand over the cheek. The rough bundle of bandages that always covers his scarred hand prevented Theo from feeling the swelling skin. Though, as soon as the tips of his finger made contact with the flesh, he could then feel with his fingers what stung to his cheek. Soon after, Theo continued to grace those fingers over his face, wipping away the single stripe of blood leaking from the left nostril.

"Yes ma'am..." Theo held his blood-stained pointer finger in front of his blue eyes, exaiming reality through it. Being struck in the face by his second-in-command did not appall him. It only reminded him that restraint could keep him tamed. "But was that really necessary?"

Cassie breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm afraid so, now apologize to your wife," she said, motioning over to Isabel. Cassie kept a serious expression on to prevent Theo from saying no to her request. She knew him well enough to know that it was rather hard for him to swallow his pride, especially in front of multiple people.

"Well?" she urged when Theo stayed silent for a moment.

"Wait..." Theo eyed the fallen table, motioning a hand in its direction as he spoke. "You see me break things all the time, yet you slapped me over a sturdy wood table that's probably not broken anyways?" He sounded confused before transitioning in a more nonchalant, careless tone, "Even if it was I could barter for a new one." Which was true, the vangaurd faction was perhaps the wealthiest due to the pickers scavenging valuables in London ruins, and the trappers capturing extra livestock. Therefore as leader, Theo was the richest man in Churchill. Unfortunately his wealth does contribute to his recklessness and lack of self-control if he can just simply replace everything he breaks.

"Jesus Christ..." Cassie rolled her eyes before hopelessly glancing at Isabel then back at Theo again. "You're supposed to apologize to Isabel for rushing at her," she said, using her hands as she spoke given that she was starting to become frustrated with Theo. "Trust me, nobody here cares about a damn table."

"So... that's why you slapped me? Just because I ran up to her, not because of potential vandalism?" Theo's brow furrowed, though not in anger, rather in bewilderment until his eyes widened leading him to wonder if Cassie acted in fear because to her, he was not simply marching towards Isabel, he was charging at her. "No hold on, I have a better question: What did you think was going to happen if you didn't um... do something." Theo winced while dragging his fingers over his left cheek again, using touch to visualize how noticable the slap would seem with the swelling.

"You should have seen your face, Theo. Even I was scared. Can you blame me for thinking that at the very least you were going to go off on her for making such a suggestion?"

Cassie stopped to think about the incident from just a few seconds ago. She couldn't help but doubt herself, wondering whether she had completely misjudged him. If that was the case, then she owed him a big apology.

"I got a little bit ahead of myself, didn't I?" she asked him, part of her wanting so badly to be proven completely wrong.

"Outside of sparring, have I ever hit you? No." Theo pointed his palm at Cassie. "You are not my enemy." He then pointed at Isabel. "She is not my enemy. There is no war between me and my colony, nor of any other faction in Churchill. We are at war with the Outsiders... they are our greatest threat..." Theo stepped over the table leg that seperated his distance from Isabel. "Lady Renaissance," he addressed Isabel by a formal title, which was out of character for Theo. However, this meant that he was taking their situation seriously.
"the Outsiders are much more a threat than the Overseers. I realize that now." Thanks to Cassie, even Theo knew the slap served its purpose. It acted like a leash, preventing him from running astray to what he truly wanted, a secure colony to raise his future children in. Executing the Overseers might fulfill Theo's sense of justice, but it did nothing to benefit Churchill in the long run.

"In fact the Overseers might be our only way to finally put an end to the Outsiders. We all know that they fly down from the moon to the earth by an armed Collective space carrier. If we could get a hold of that ship, its artillery would make us unstoppable against the Outsiders. Churchill would be invincible.

Thus I propose that my First Sentinel Reno Wylde interrograte the Overseers, question them why they came to Churchill in the first place and where that ship is. The Overseers will not be harmed by Wylde, that's not his style. Though if we go through with this plan, one of them will have to lead my combatants back to the ship. I say it be the Corporal, I am not ready to trust Thrax just yet to have him possibly my mislead my troops. But as for O'Hare, she seems much more cooperative than the other two. Besides other than aiding Thrax in conspiring the riot, I don't have much to hold against her.

We can decide what to do with Thrax and Alfie later."

[Vashonn]

---

Iseabal MacGilios

With less-payed Guest Star @Ellion

---

Isbells - "Maybe"

---

With wide eyes, the Renaissance kept her body pressed against the back of the wooden chair, her hands having folded together against her chest as the situation had escalated. Turning her head to the toppled table, Isabel gazed down at the shattered porcelain cup that was strewn across the floor, her brow only furrowing further as she glanced back toward the towering Spartan who had seemed to be filled with an immeasurable rage just seconds prior, yet was suddenly speaking as if nothing wrong had occurred.

Taking a deep breath, Isabel closed her eyes, tilting her head forward as she continued to let the cool air ease in and out of her lungs. Finally she lifted her head, looking up to Theodore with a disappointed glare which pierced through the slim space separating the two nearly-weds. Almost in defiance of her delicate demeanor, Isabel shot up from her seat with a huff, taking a step forward to close the already brief gap, leaving the only distance in the immense height difference between the two faces.

"Your spontaneity may get you whatever you wish with the Vanguard, sir Spartan, but your childish antics of shouting and throwing objects to justify your cause only irritates me," though her voice shook with anger, Isabel kept a restraint in her composure, keeping her cold eyes fixed upon Theo as she continued. "Perhaps it would be best that I would act on a similar level to you, battling to see who's voice is the loudest, making sure that I get my point across to you despite having already made myself perfectly clear. Don't belittle me as if I wouldn't know what it is like to kill someone you care for, as if I could never understand what such a thing could do to me! You act as if I've never lost anyone dear to me! Take a gander at the whole of our quaint little colony, and tell me that you know anyone here who is content with their life. I see in the Overseers the same as you do, and I have the marks to enforce my disgust!"

As she continued throughout her speech, Isabel's eyes began to fill with tears, and her voice cracked, until finally her vision blurred and she felt herself fall backward. Declan started moving towards Isabel before she started falling. Well-practiced hands caught her lightly around the waist and shifted her, lifting her slight frame into a 'bridal' style carry and set her lightly on her abandoned chair.

"Well, this has been quite productive," he said with a smile - one far too happy for the situation. His hand navigated to her shoulder, holding Isabel still until her eyes flickered and opened. Glancing about in confusion, nearly that of a trance, Isabel slowly shifted her body until she sat upright, lifting a hand to touch at her temple as she slowly came back to her senses.

"I... I have to apologize... I'll try and keep the rest of our discussion as civil as I can muster," with calm, quiet words, Isabel kept her eyes locked upon the floor, glancing at the boots of Theodore as she spoke. "I... Must agree with you. It would be best that we find out what the Overseers want of us, before we decide what to do with them. Using the Sheriff would be our best course of action - they have no bias against him, and he's almost always looked upon in favorable terms. I will trust you on this." Gracing her fingers to touch at Declan's hand, Isabel slowly lifted her head until her eyes met Theo's, a deep sorrow still stuck within her own gaze which couldn't be covered with the mask she wore.

[beyond visions]

---

Theo Callahan

Ft. @Vashonn

---

"Cass, go to the Sheriff, let him know about the interrogation," turning to his second-in-command, he gave the order, knowing full-well that Isabel was right. Reno was the best man for this job. "The sooner we know why the Overseers arrived here and where their ship is, increases our chances of finding the Collective ship." And though Theo would not mind drilling the Overseers with questions himself, he still had a wife and wedding to attend to. He was not just about to run off on his own agenda, forgetting about Isabel. After his outburst, that could be better described as a tantrum, Theo owed Isabel that much to push his concerns on her. And perhaps through that, his irritable impulse would morph into subconscious passion. "I would go, but I need to stay here, with my wife."

After commanding Cassie, Theo shifted his eyes back over to the Queen of the Muses. In many ways than one, Isabel was much like his mother. Theo wonders if anyone could believe that before his sentence to Churchill, his temper and impulsive disorder was just as toxic when he was eighteen and nineteen. Though then, most of it contributed to being and an angsty teen and maintaining his bad boy reputation. Yet, because he was raised by two parents of the Collective military, Theo was not without discipline. In keeping Theo in better behavior, or at least controlled, his mother expressed her annoyed impatience through a patronizing or condescending tone. But it was never the type of verbality that left Theo defeated, but determined to what felt like another chance. In Isabel's last sentence with the trust that she announced, sparked his "ride or die" mentality. It was the kind of loyalty that made Theodore Callahan a potent juggernaut for Churchill's military, and for the Outsiders, even as one individual, he was a force to be reckoned with. On the other hand, there was another method that would bring Theo to see reason amidst his savage rage. With a more assertive, authoritative approach, Cassie stopped Theo from the monster he could be by a harsher tone, with the added backhand when called for. Cassie was much like his father in that way, who would call this tough love. Theo did not favor, nor was against either form of discipline. But he knew one thing, that without either he would hurt people without the cognitivity to stop himself.

"Thank you for trusting me." The way Isabel teared up, the sorrow in her eyes, it all seemed so clear to him of what he actually did now. His physical aggressive action, that was more compulsive than it was impulsive. Compulsive being that he had an irresistible urge to relive the anxiety he felt through throwing the table. But the words he spat before the mahogany hit the stone floor, none of it was premeditated. Theo can be extremely stubborn when it comes to apologizing for things he did not mean, simply because he was acting on instinct. "And no, I should be the one apologizing. I am the one who pushed you there, and I'm sorry." Though he apologized now, because of that exact lack of self-control he could never alone rid himself of. To truly make Isabel his wife, exceeding what that means politically, Theo must return the trust given by humbling himself in submission.

"The gallery..." Theo recalled it being mentioned during their stroll, a time before the news of the Overseers rocked their world. "For the time being, would you be okay taking me there? I'll be on my best behavior, promise."

Isabel let her eyes once again fall toward the floor before they trailed over to Declan, who had remained by her side as the final moments of the meeting drew to a close. With a nod, the Renaissance warily rose from her seat, steadying herself as she adjusted from her fainting episode. "I... Would like that," Isabel looked toward Declan, speaking in a friendly manner. "I imagine there is still much for you to prepare for the festivities this evening," she let a smile fix upon her lips as she spoke, hoping to still any unease that her right-hand might have with leaving her with Theo, then turned toward her groom-to-be, letting her note of the work still ahead of Declan act as dismissal.

Just as he did before on their stroll, Theo offered Isabel his arm so that she may hold on to him once as they walked their path towards the gallery.

[Heretic]

---

Cassandra Voss & Reno Wylde

A collab between @Heretic and @Apollosarcher

---

”I’m on it,” Cassie said, gathering her bag with one hand before she headed towards the exit. Part of her was glad that Theo had reached an understanding with Isabel. This new transition into sharing such power was sure to have its setbacks, but maybe those two could work it out just fine after all.

Cassie headed towards the entrance to the cells, catching Reno leaning against the wall tinkering with one of his weapons.

”Hey. Theo sent me to let you know to go ahead and interrogate the prisoners. Him and Isabel came to an understanding and that’s the decision they made.”

"They came to an understanding? Way I heard, it sounded like an immovable object met an unstoppable force." The gunslinger sighed spinning thunder back into the holster. "So any guidelines for this? I am not Theo, I don't do the whole rage and scream thing." The cool young man answered, moving from his spot on the wall.

"So what shall I be talking to our fine Hawks about? Gas prices? The weather? What color hat goes best with my horse?" Reno liked to talk a lot without saying anything, but of course Cassie knew that. The man wasn't used to people and so he didn't ever really say what he was thinking; he just gave knowing looks and stood beside you.

"Don't be a smart-ass," Cassie replied, unable to hold back some of her laughter. "You just need to ask them why they're here, and where their ship is. Theo and Isabel will take it from there. But just do your thing--no violence or threats have to be made. That's why the Hulk over there asked me to tell you to do the job."

Cassie took a few steps towards Reno with her arms crossed, her voice just a bit lower. "But yes, he did break the table in that room and for a moment he looked like he was going to attack Isabel. I had to intervene because I seriously thought he was going to do something to her. I know he doesn't turn on his own kind, but add everything else going on like the wedding festival, and one could very easily act without thinking."

"Cassie you wound me! I could never be anything more than the smartest of asses." He smiled at his friend before nodding at her request. "I thought he might have broken something, again. Keeping your cool is the most important part of the job, even when you're staring down hell itself." The gunslinger drew his flask from inside his jacket and took a sip before offering some whiskey to Cassie.

"How are you taking all this? I know it's rough on you, but if we get some time tonight I shall treat to whatever you want out of my collection of fine intoxicants." He moved, patting her shoulder and looking down the hall. "Want to tag along, or does Achilles need your presence again?"

"Yeah well..." Cassie shrugged, her expression turning solemn as she looked down at the ground, "I would have rather had him marry out of love, not for politics. But believe me, I know the sacrifices we have to make, so it is what it is."

She then was able to show a slight smile.

"But I'll be better once we drown ourselves tonight in whatever poison you have laying around. Come on, I'll accompany you. I don't think they need me back there."

"Life is like poker, Cassie. It's always a decent start, the draws are random and the house always takes it at the end of the night." He spoke as he curled his left hand back, tapping his index finger on his pistol. "Unless you're me of course, after all I made poker an honest trade in this town." The gambler smiled, heading down towards the cells.

The Sentinel office was across the hall from the cells, while Reno usually didn't occupy the office it did see use by his deputies. "Now, when we get down there, let me do the talking... If they get out of line, feel free to remind me to give them a slap. Otherwise you stand there, pretty and mean as hell." He added the compliment to try and cheer her up.

"Being pretty and mean is what I'm best at," Cassie replied, giving Reno a wink.

[beyond visions]

---

Alfie Vanderbilt

---

After Lily's words of encouragement, the corners of the Lieutenant's lips slightly turned upwards, creating the closest thing to a smile from Alfie. Though that was only short-lived as soon Thrax gave them the order to preserve some ounce of composure. At that moment, Alfie sat straight, sweeping his fingers through his black hair before readjusting his side cap. "Yes sir!" Alfie barked back, as if he were a fresh-faced recruit, but if you were well-acquainted with Alfie, he was always particularly enthusiastic when it came to heeding to Thrax's every word.

Once footsteps were heard located right outside their cell, Alfie hurriedly bounced to his feet and marched to be alongside the Captain. He released a sigh of relief once noting the First Sentinel's presence. It was face Alfie would much rather prefer as oppose to the Spartan king, or any member of the muse faction. Desperately enough, Alfie wanted to be a prisoner under the hand of the vanguards, however the marriage alliance does not seal his fate under that faction. The muses are involved, and that is what scares him. Alfie believed that in order for the penal colony to fear the Overseers, he had to let the faction leaders know that they are not untouchable. Alfie did not make an example of the Spartan king, the man is seven feet tall and is prone to consuming fits of rage. Unleashing his flagellum against the back of the beast would exhaust far too much energy and time. Alfie was not going to put all efforts to break one man. The masterminds, in Alfie's eyes, was the most sane or at least dignified of factions, therefore the Victorian was not his target. So he kept his eye on another faction, one that supposedly displayed hope through artistic expression. Alfie crushed their spirits as he crushed Isabel's body over mere shortage of crops.

The temporary tranquility Alfie once felt disappeared just as he noticed Theo's right hand. The second she entered the cell with Reno, Alfie just pierced Cassie with cold glares. Because the woman was much taller than the Lieutenant, he puffed his chest up and straightened his back, striving to even as their prisoner, show his superiority in front of a criminal. "Reno Wylde... it is a joy to see you... just you." Even as Alfie spoke to the First Sentinel, he did not break eye contact with Cassie. "Can't say it was necessary to bring Ms. 'Always Second Place'... Ms. 'Let's Steal From the Elderly'."

[Heretic]

---

Cassandra Voss

---

Cassie arched an eyebrow, her eyes darting from side to side as if she couldn't quite make out where the voice was coming from. She then turned to Reno, a rather exaggerated and confused expression on her face similar to that of someone who had witnessed an impossible magic trick.

"Hey, do you hear that?"

Cassie then turned to face the lieutenant, pretending that she had been startled by his mere presence.

"Oh, it's you..." Cassie didn't hold back the disdain that just oozed through her words. But that was simply it; the lieutenant and her never did see eye to eye, to say the least, and to have them be within such close proximity of each other always invited these little unpleasant exchanges. Cassie slowly approached the cell door, enjoying watching Alfie be stuck behind bars. It was definitely a welcomed change for her as she looked down at him.

"What's the matter, chickenshit? Your daddy isn't giving you enough love these days?" Cassie motioned towards Thrax, well aware of the fact that she was probably pushing his buttons too, but she really couldn't care less at the moment. Cassie was enjoying her brief interaction with Alfie. "That doesn't mean you gotta take it out on the rest of us."

Cassie looked over at Reno, who appeared as if he wanted to burst out laughing but was attempting to keep his cool at all costs. "I honestly don't know what to do with these guys," she went on with her sarcasm, now staring at Reno with her back towards the prisoners. "We try to show them mercy and they have to guts to come here insulting everybody left and right. I guess some people just don't know any better..."

[beyond visions]

---

Theo Callahan & Isabel MacGilios

Collab between @beyond visions and @Vashonn

---

The Lamp Kept Us Warm, But Now We Walk (feat. Olivia Dixon) - Trevor Ransom

---

On the opposite side of the wide street from which the Theater sat, there stood a smaller, though still quite large building, known to the prisoners of Churchill as the Gallery. The Gallery stood apart from its surrounding structures in that it was significantly larger than the rest, two stories in height, and twice as long, the entirety of its exterior constructed of white stone, which perhaps wasn't marble, although it may be, as a good deal of the materials came salvaged from the structures within the great city of London. At the center of the face of the building stood a gargantuan, dark-wooden double door, nine feet in height, and six feet wide. All along the front of the building were long, vertical windows which allowed light to pass through into the main lobby, as well as the hall which was directly above the lobby, both rooms connected by spiraling staircases placed at both the left and right ends of the front of the building. These two rooms were where the sunlight ceased, as walls were placed at the ends of these rooms to keep the light from entering the main part of the Gallery, where all of the artwork was held - with the exception of the Stone Room, which sat at the rear of the building on the first level, which was allowed to receive sunlight through a large glass pane to illuminate the various sculptures which were placed there.

The main lobby reached from the far end of one side of the building to the other, three meters deep with a desk set between two smaller, intricately designed doors at the center. The floor was a mosaic of tiles put together by various architects from the Muse faction - as was most of the rest of the building - and the general temperature in the room was rather cool, as the stone surrounding the lobby kept most of the heat from entering.

As Theo and Isabel stepped into the lobby, they were met by various other prisoners from all over Churchill who had gathered to socialize or see the artwork, most of which were Muses, though the occasional Vanguard and Mastermind were also present. Though most of the other residents of Churchill seemed to take no notice of the couple, there was quickly a hushed whisper which fell over some of the grouped parties as they exchanged glances and gawked at the two leaders who, with interlocked arms, strode past the masses toward the left door into the lower Gallery.

While the two walked their way towards the main gallery, Theo cast a stare upon the mosaic tiles. From the start, this new setting seemed far different from what Theo rested his eyes on. Theo has avoided the Gallery up to this point, mainly because he doubted his own simpleton mind when it came to art involving theater, poetry, or literature. He failed to see symbolism or understand metaphors if not obvious. Though with the visual arts, he found the change of scenery pleasing to his eyes. He even found it... refreshing.

In his effort to play apart in chivalry, Theo curled his bandaged fist around the handle of the door leading into the main gallery. With his biceps contracting, Theo held the door open for Isabel before he too followed her inside. Once within the main gallery, the room seemed awfully dark at first. "It's darker in here..." And then more quietly Theo whisper, almost as if he were reminding himself of his own fear. "Scared--" but then, because he was in company with his wife, Theo quickly used a different word. "Hate the dark." But with time for his eyes to adjust to this new sense of dim lighting, Theo sighed in relief, "Ah, that's better... Not too dark now... g-good... good."

The dim candlelight which illuminated the whole of the main gallery was quickly absorbed by the dark brown of the walls, pedestals, and various displays which held each piece of art, leaving the entirety of the room just bright enough to trace one's footstep and not bump into any other objects. This dull light was perhaps planned, as it accentuated the features of each piece of work, drawing focus to every detail as they popped off the canvas.

Isabel, having spent many hours in the gallery in what little free time she gave herself, quickly stepped away from Theo, hunting for new pieces of art which she knew were to be added, though she had not witnessed as of yet. Turning her head back slightly, she stopped a few meters from Theodore, then remembered that the Spartan had probably never even seen what was inside of the Gallery. Slowly, she turned back around, stepping toward her partner, reaching for his hand which she had to grab with both hands to grasp firmly. Tugging in a playful, albeit impatient manner, Isabel led them toward one painting in particular - a towering canvas which extended from the floor to the ceiling, a red and black painting of a man sitting, his head lowered into one hand. Though it appeared simple, Isabel stood in awe for a brief moment, then began to speak.

"This is the last painting of Justen Dutler, the first Renaissance. He stepped down from his position as he discovered his apprentice, Riley Scott, had surpassed him in his art, and thus, the competition that occurs between any Muse who would challenge the Renaissance was born. In his depression, Dutler created one last work, which would become the first piece to be inaugurated in the Gallery, by Scott, shortly after Dutler's death," Turning to face Theo, Isabel smiled half-heartedly, continuing. "This is the very piece which inspired me to begin my own work. I try and mimick its simplicity, and try and draw from raw emotion, like Dutler did. I still don't think I could ever come to Dutler's level of work, though my rank would say otherwise," frowning, the Renaissance turned back toward the painting, standing in silence as she began studying each detail of the canvas, just as she had done countless times before.

As his eyes rested on the piece in front of them, a slight smile softly curved upwards from Theo's lips. "Um... I don't usually react like this to anything..." He was not sure how to match his feelings to words, but with his affection he may be able to express those emotions. As she had just held his hand, Theo laid his palm over hers. "But this is... this is peaceful..." He chuckled to himself joyfully. "With your story.. I can come to appreciate this painting even more. As we look at it now I can't help but face the brutal reality that to reach the top as a vanguard, a Spartan's heart has to stop beating... But not with you guys... Death does not have to equal promotion." His head angled downwards in sorrowful remembrance of the Spartan before him. Theo's mind flooded with flashbacks of a strong man crumbling due to an enemy, a cancer, he could not cut down. His death equaled Theo's promotion. "Our alliance-- our marriage... With you at my side, perhaps I can make decisions that give me the type of peace I'm feeling right now... Peace without death, without destruction... Hell, peace and relief without breaking something..."

Isabel shifted her gaze away from the painting, staring up into Theo's blue eyes as he looked down in sorrow. For a moment, she stood there, watching and thinking, before turning her head to look toward the painting again, though her eyes fell to the ground. Not knowing what to do, Isabel shifted her hand to wrap around his, as well as it could. "I... I do wonder... What truly are your plans for our marriage?" Closing her eyes, Isabel slowly let the air fill her lungs, trying as she could to calm her beating heart, which she felt pulsing even in her ears.

Theo took to careful notice that Isabel used the word, marriage, not alliance. This let him understand that she was referring to their bond as a relationship between two people, not two factions. Simply Theo blurted what had been on his mind for a while, "Isabel, I am a ride-or-die son of a bitch." Theo held up both of her palms, the tips of his fingers curling around hers. Her hands were inches away from his face. "Know that once you give me your heart, not just your faction, I'll give you mine. If you don't want anything of me other than what I can offer politically... Then please... Tell me now. I know it is too earlier to confess any unconditional love... but at least let me know you are open-minded."

Struck dumbfounded, the Renaissance stared up to the Spartan with wide eyes, the blunt impact of the proclamation leaving her speechless. Quickly, however, Isabel felt her face warm as her cheeks flushed, praying that her mask and the dark of the room would keep Theo from noticing. "I... I don't know what to say..." Isabel gazed up into Theo's eyes, unsure of what to make of their intensity. Her thoughts began to whirl about, churning together the words Theodore had uttered.

"Theodore..." Isabel's head dropped, the range of emotions bouncing back and forth in her mind. "I want so dearly to be with someone that I know I can love... And, I wish of them to have the strength to love who I am..." Shifting her feet, she continued. "This alliance was made for the future of Churchill in mind, I know this. And, now with the Overseers in desperate need of our aide, we... You and I... Have more sway over the fate of the colony than ever before. Though..." Again, Isabel shifted her feet, before finally lifting her eyes to meet Theo's. "I want, first, to grow to know and love the one that I will be spending the rest of my days with. I don't want to think of the colony, or of the Overseers... Or... What Vanderbilt did..." Grimacing, Isabel lowered her eyes, trying to keep back the few tears that were pooling up as she spoke.

Theo touched the bullet strung around his neck, it was his dog-tag. "I... I heard what happened when I came home... to Churchill-- at the time I was on the field with my combatants." His once calm expressed distorted into a grimace while now gripping tightly that bullet. "I couldn't believe it at first-- why would he pull that kind of crazy shit?" With his teeth clamped against each other, frustration was echoed through his inflection. It didn't make sense to Theo how Alfie went from being rather merciful and kind, to scourging a woman over the shortage of thirty-so crops. "No... I'm thinking to much about it-- the thought... it's... it's pissing me off. And I'm sure you don't want to dwell on it." What perhaps infuriated Theo the most, was as he finally released the grasp of his dog-tag, and instead laid his firm palm against Isabel's shoulder, gazing into her tearful eyes, her trauma seemed so familiar to him as Theo has seen it so often in his own men and women, those mainly who have been in captivity and subjected to utter torment. "However... one last thing about that, I know in the war room, I wanted Thrax as my prisoner because he caused me to execute traitors I thought I could trust when they were my soldiers. But I know now, because I have seen it in the eyes of my brothers and sisters, that torture is far worse than death. Whatever hell you have in store for Alfie... I'll just be upset you don't let me watch."

Isabel shifted her gaze away, turning her body to face the rest of the Gallery, stepping away from her companion as she fell deep into her thoughts. For a moment, she stood there, folding her hands together as a sort of solemn prayer, before she finally let out in a hushed tone:

"Let us not talk of such things."

Glancing back again to have her eyes meet Theo's, the Renaissance's demeanor appeared to change dramatically, the somber mood that had fallen over her seemingly lifted as she smiled to him. "I was wondering, in any case, if there were any pieces within the Gallery that you may want to discern? I understand, you may not have many in mind, as you are often busy with your Vanguard, but..." Taking a step back toward the Spartan, Isabel grasped again at Theodore's hands, her light blue eyes shining with anticipation. "Perhaps... There is someone's work that you'd like to see?"

"What I would like to see..." Theo let go of Isabel's hands, rotating behind her while also sliding both of his palms up her arm and onto her the edge of shoulders. "what sealed your fate as Lady Renaissance... What brought you here to me, of course. That is what I want to see." As he spoke, Theo leaned in closer to the back of Isabel's head, hunching his posture in order to rest his head against both her neck and lower jaw. Theo knew of Isabel's painting, all faction leaders know why each rose to their title. It is better that way, to understand what the others did to gain power. "But..." Theo chuckled, Isabel feeling his vocal cords vibrate off her shoulder, as he laid his neck there. "I am a guest in your gallery, what is it that you want to show me?"

Theo promised Isabel that he would be on his best behavior once inside the gallery, thus he made the gallant effort to just so. It seemed ever since the meeting in the war room that Theo had been far less forcefully, and instead asking rather than assuming. Perhaps without such the slap of reality in the war room, Theo would have likely cradled Isabel in his arms and marched over to her painting. Theo has often realized that even though he may have good intentions, he can rub off as the aggressive type due to overambitious passion. It is best to be reminded, even when that means harshly, when being overbearing, overprotective, or just plain bumptious.

Blushing, Isabel stepped away from Theo's grasp, turning around to face him and opened her mouth to speak, though she seemed to stop herself before any words could flow forth. Finally, fixing a wry smile to her lips before she began to walk away, glancing back for Theo to follow.

"Oh, and deeper do I descend into your lair... Ha, ha, exciting!" Perhaps why Theo seemed so enthusiastic about the moment was because he felt that she might be actually enjoying his company. Even if her reactions were quite reserved, at least he was getting somewhere.

As the two of them walked through the Gallery, Isabel would occasionally slow to glance at any art that had drawn her eye before, or the few new pieces which had recently been installed, as some works would be replaced every so often with the consent of the artist, though a great deal of the expositions on the first level were left untouched from the moment they were set, save for the few occasions when cleaning had to be done to the surrounding area, or the art itself. The further the pair walked, the more recent the artwork became, leaving a slight scarcity upon the walls where there would be room for future inaugurations into the Gallery.

It hadn't taken too long a time before the two leaders reached the rear of the building, just a slight distance short of the wooden doors which acted as portals into the Stone Room. Here, the air felt cooler, dry; the smoke of the candles which burned pooling into a wispy fog, filling the nose with the light scents of lavender. Set between the two doors along the back wall, directly in the center, hung the portrait Isabel had crafted for her competition just over a year prior.

Theo tilted his head and folded his arms while viewing Isabel's profound piece, "Intacta Caelo". As he stared at the crimson painted skies, he could not help but ask a curious question. "Isabel... I can't keep my eyes off of it... When did you paint this?" Why Theo precisely asked this, was because he wondered what exactly inspired her. Was it the Overseer oppression in general, or perhaps a specific painful experience compelled her? Theo wanted to know what drove her heart.

"It isn't often that I come to view my own work," It seemed almost as if Isabel had not even taken notice to Theo's question, her eyes locked upon the sweeping crimson skyline which seemed to plummet into the blackened soil. "Often times, I would finish my painting, it would be published, and then I would never let my eyes fall upon it again, lest I spot all of the faults in the canvas, all of the little mistakes that only I can see," her jaw tightened, Isabel raised her chin to take a deep breath, finally turning to respond.

"Though many have attributed this to be some sort of cry for freedom, I can't say that that was my intention, as I find the topic to be incredibly mundane. Not to mitigate the meaning of that, 'freedom', for which all of these colonists seek, but rather, I wanted it to stand for hope... Maybe, rebirth, in some sense. Notice the little girl, beside her parents," raising an arm, Isabel let her fingertips grace across the canvas, though she drew her hand back quickly as it approached the smaller figure. "I guess people always want to associate it with the Overseers for the color scheme, but then, look at the rest of my work. And even so, it wasn't long after... Vanderbilt... I drew this, knowing that if I could give the colonists some sense of hope, then maybe we could begin to grow, and shape our own destiny. It's funny, I hadn't truly expected to become..." her voice trailed off, leaving the shadow of a smile upon her lips, the weight of seeing her own work hung as the symbol of her position suddenly bearing down on her.

"I like that... you called us colonists, not convicts..." Theo unfolded his arms while stepping forward towards her. "The crime that got me here, arms-dealing, I thought I was doing the right thing. Allowing others to defend themselves by possessing arms." Theo scoffed at himself, "Hell, I'm so damn American! But that was how life was back in States, on Old Earth. We had that right then, and yeah, I was seven when my dad told me about my good American rights, but I guess that all means nothing now." Theo paused, soaking in the silence he now caused. "Isabel... I'm sorry I made you cry earlier... I know it's random, but I haven't stopped thinking about it. You've probably noticed, I've been on better behavior since then. I don't want you to be scared of me. I would never hurt you, of course not physically, but not even emotionally. I'm not using you for political gain. No matter what anyone says, I'm genuinely trying to make something of us."

"I must admit," Isabel began, her hand raising up to touch at the crimson brooch pinned to the collar of her dress, "this alliance of ours, when it was brought to my attention, I had no intention of accepting it. Yet, as I thought, I saw only a chance to better the colony as a whole, and I threw my own feelings aside. I hadn't fully grasped what I had agreed to, until this morning..." Turning, Isabel stared deep into Theodore's eyes, her own gaze clouded with contempt. "You are, Spartan Callahan, the most abrasive, vulgar, childish man I have ever had the hindrance to consort myself with." As she spoke, the Renaissance's tone actually lightened, as if she was making a joke at Theodore's expense.

"And yet..." her lips curled into a coy smile. "You've revealed that there is a gentleness to this giant. And for this, I suppose, I can make peace with the prospect of being wed to you, so long as you keep your head." Isabel snickered to herself, turning as if to leave. Stopping, she looked back, glancing down at the Spartan's bare chest, then back into his eyes. "Oh, and I do hope for you to at least wear a shirt to our wedding. A few of the older Muses wouldn't find it, ehm... 'Proper'," then, smiling, she began to walk toward the door out into the lobby.

[beyond visions]

---

The Interrogation

Collab between @beyond visions, @Kingfisher, @Apollosarcher, @Xandrya, @Heretic

---

The vanguard prison contain three large holding cells, one currently housed the prisoners. The one on the far right held a smuggler and a drunk, the two were silent as if in awe of the fact that Overseers were in the room. The middle cell lay empty door open, the bed had once hosted a marshall asleep on the bench at the back, he had left before the Overseers arrived. The left most cell held the three Overseers together, as Reno moved towards a desk across from said cell. He had placed a desk here to allow him space to speak with prisoners, two plush chairs in near perfect condition sat either side of desk. However as Alfie spoke Reno rolled his eyes, letting Cassie get in her answer before laying down the law with the insolent boy.

Reno looked Alfie in the eyes. "You don't talk to her, you talk to me brown nose. Oh and just so we're clear, I can turn you over to Cassie the second I find your company no longer be pleasant. Secondly, you will refer to me as Sheriff." Taking a seat at the desk across from the cells, kicking his boots up onto the desk his spurs jangled. "And Alfie... Let me be clear, if you continue to insult the fine people of Vanguard then I will have Marshall Dodge give you his pistol and we will settle this my way... And from what I hear you ain't got stomach for killing. So you will sit down, shut up and let the people who matter talk."

Reno's eyes locked onto the with Captain Thrax next, as he reached into his desk retrieving a box of cuban cigars and a bottle of well aged rum. "Now I took these off the smuggler a few cells over so they are mine to share." He sat both of his desk before pulling out the keys to the cell, kicking the chair to the other side out a little further. He turned back towards the cell spurs clanking as he walked to the door opening it slowly.

"Captain, step out and join me for a drink perhaps a cigar? There is no reason I can not be civil while we talk terms. After all, you are my guest in my fine prison." He waved his right hand for the captain to step out, speaking as if it was nice place to be. His left hand however tapped in rhythm against his pearl grip six shooter, they knew what Reno could do. Reno could make a man dead faster than you could blink, it would take little effort for him to draw and blow all three away if they tried to make a move. "The rest of you stay nice and quiet for now, you'll all get to say your piece. If y'all are real good I'll break out the cards and we can play a hand of poker later." He smiled, charmingly at the two he was both terrifying and a perfect gentleman all at once to them.

Alfie remained with the Corporal at the first of their cell, leaning against the wall before sitting down. Mind as well get as comfortable as possible since there was no telling how long it would be. With Lily beside him, the Lieutenant squeezed all space between them two so that even the quietest of his whispers could be understood. Although, Cassie may have the chance to hear what he murmured since she was positioned right by their cell door, watching them. "Remember... they're not faction leaders...," Alfie whispered the obvious, but if one were to give it thought, there was more to his statement than its surface meaning. Because Cassie and Reno were not faction leaders, Alfie knew that they have no real power to make any life or die decisions, not unless their superior allowed them. "They can only think about killing us... But nothing else..." And Alfie highly doubted that Theo Callahan would allow the death of the Overseers just yet, because there was no revenge in that. "Puppets... Theo sent his puppets..."

Thrax followed Sheriff Wylde out of the cell, and into the corridor beyond. The more time they'd spent imprisoned, the more irritable the Captain Overseer had become, but even in his testy state, Thrax knew that there was little to be gained in throwing his weight around, at least under the current circumstances. There would be a time for exacting revenge, but first he had to deal with ensuring his own safety, and the safety of those under his command.

"I appreciate the cordiality, Sheriff," Thrax said slowly, rolling his broad shoulders "what is it you want to know?"

Despite her best efforts, Lily couldn't help but feel extremely annoyed as Lieutenant Vanderbilt wouldn't stop running his mouth. Nothing good would come out of it, except him getting some satisfaction from getting Cassie all riled up. But given the situation they were in, the lieutenant should learn to not bite the hand that feeds.

"With all due respect, sir, I think we should just let them question us so they can leave us alone and be on their way."

Cassie shot Alfie a dirty look. The only reason the bastard didn't have a bloody nose was due to the fact that Reno was just mere inches away, otherwise she would have made him regret his words. For whatever reason, she didn't want to have Reno witness her lose control so easily.

"Is your ass jealous of the amount of shit that just came out of your mouth? No wonder you're so fucking bitter..."

Not giving him an opportunity to reply, Cassie turned her back to the prisoners as she focused on the conversation that Reno and Thrax were having.

Reno shut the jail door once more locking it before he poured them both a glass of rum as he took a sat in the chair opening the box of cigars on the table. Setting out a matches for them as well. "Feel free to help yourself Captain." He took off his hat looking Thrax in the eyes.

"Now, I am not a criminal and nor have I ever done anything other than keep the peace in the town. As I was asked to by your predecessor, I am also the only one here who wants see things stay peaceful." The drunkard sheriff knocked back his drink pouring another as he spoke. "Theo and the little lady want to make you pay, I can only imagine what the Mastermind's would want to do to you all." He looked at Thrax chuckling. "I'm a gambler and I don't like your odds, so work with me and I promise you all live. Give you my word as a lawman, now... What can you tell about your ship?" He added as his eyes drifted around the room, sizing them all getting read on others as it were.

Thrax moved his hand over the cigars, but instead settled on taking a match, to light one of his cigarettes with. Cigars were best enjoyed over time, and Thrax had never had the luxury of time.

The Overseer Captain slipped a straight between his lips, striking it to life with the flick of a match, before taking a long drag.

"Whilst I appreciate you not lynching me, Sheriff, I feel inclined to remind you, and all others, that I speak as the voice of the Collective on this colony. Whatever slights the Spartan has imagined I've accrued against him over time, these upstarts don't have the authority to take raise a single hand against me, or my subordinates. I do not feel at liberty, sir, to reveal a damn thing about what our intentions are, but I do feel inclined to point out that keeping agents of the Collective imprisoned is a VERY bad idea."

"And I feel inclined to point out the Vanguard nor the Muse's are managed by stable and rational people. Captain I would prefer not to turn you or the others over to them as I would feel guilty about it all. That being said, I cannot let you go or maintain you in protective custody without something in return." The young man picked up one of the cigars and striking a match to light it. "So the reality of this is simple, you work with me or get worked over by the others. No bullshitting, no bluffing." He spoke plainly sighing as he looked among the three.

"Captain I would applaud your actions if I didn't know what the people you think cannot harm you are like. You forget sir, everyone in this colony but me committed a crime bad enough to be sent here. That many here would glad to just to spite you." Reno looked around the room drawing his pistol spinning it on his finger. "We're the last of humanity that means if we fuck this up, we doom a species to extinction." He added with a serious tone looking each person in the room in the eyes. "We get one chance to make sure we don't end humanity... So we gonna continue to act like we did before, or are we gonna start trying to play nice?"

Thrax sighed loudly, blowing a plume of grayish white smoke out through his nostrils. "Its incredibly hard for me to do my job, when the people that I'm supposed to be in-charge of are throwing me in a fucking cell. But if you want to help a bunch of convicts completely undermine the chain of command, that's on your head, Sheriff."

Thrax paused for a moment, taking another drag from his cigarette.

"You’ve heard about this decay, yes? Well...things outside of the colony have gotten a hell of a lot worse.”

Alfie admired Thrax for being hopeful to believe that there is still such thing as the Collective, but until they are rescued, if that is even likely at this point, there is no Collective. There is no way back home. There is only survival. All they can do is outlast.

Alfie rose to his feet before resting his curled fist around the cell bars, his apparent intrigue in the conversation obviously showing. "My Captain is right, but what happens... once you have our ship? What happens to us?" His voice first came quite, but polite. Alfie was definitely over his annoyances. He figured, in order to increase their chances of survival, Alfie needed to find a way out of this cell. Even if that meant cooperating with the vanguards, for now. "I may be... willing... to cooperate...." Alfie shot eyes towards Thrax, concerned with his Captain's opinion on making such a statement. "Of course, with my Captain's permission."

Of course he would cooperate now, after it finally sunk in that they were in quite a bit of trouble. Cassie couldn't help but shake her head as she rolled her eyes, her back still leaning on the cell bars opposite the two prisoners. Although it was simply human nature to do anything to survive, changing one's mind so quickly could suggest ulterior motives.

"You know what will happen...the same thing that's been happening to all of us all this time. We're left to fend for ourselves." Cassie then turned around to look at Alfie in the eyes. "But if you just happen to be lucky, death will come for you much quicker than expected."

"Do you mean me specifically? Because if so, I can only wish for things to be that simple..." Alfie was not sure if what Cassie said was meant to be a threat, or if was a future he should hope for. Though after just seconds of silence, pondering her words, he came to the conclusion to not to wrestle with the worry. His main focus was not himself. Alfie may appear cold and distant, but to those who knew him, he placed Thrax and Lily on a pedestal. He saw them as good people, that even in terms of revenge, did not deserve an execution. After what he did to Isabel, Alfie counted himself number one on Churchill's death list, there was no changing that. He now only saw himself as a tool to maintain the security for those he cared about, and what he cared about. "Sheriff... I must confess that you are... right... about humanity's potential extinction... Well, there will always be the tribesmen outside of Churchill... but I rather see the prosperity of this colony rather than to the Outsiders, a people who practice an initiation process of eating alive and raw those taken under their captivity." With his fingers still wrapped around the bars, Alfie pressed his forehead against the metal, but with eyes tightly shut. "I cannot speak for my Captain, nor for Corporal O'Hare, but I will clearly state that I am willing to cooperate. Being an Overseer is my upmost pride... yet I am at heart a colonist... I... live and breath... not only for the survival of my fellow Overseers, but what's the point if humanity cannot be preserved in the first place?"

Reno chuckled. "Captain you think I like taking orders? You think I enjoy being told when to work and having someone question what I do? But thing is I'm a survivor, I survived the wastes, I survived this town, and I could sure as hell survive if this comes to war." He answered in tone that let them know Reno Wylde was loyal to the law as long as it meant it was the best way to keep the peace.

If peace broke, Reno wasn't going to shoot vanguards or Overseer's he would leave, after all he was the only one who had survived out there without going cannibal. "Captain they don't want a chain of command anymore. The people here want fair and equal trade, they want a clean slate and fair shake... And they got numbers, and you need the gene pool wide as it can be if we want a hope in hell to make out of this."

Reno got up opening the cell again as he took the cigar out of his mouth. "If Alfie here co-operates and things go smooth, I'm gonna negotiate for peaceful return of you all... Failing that, well Dodge is a heavy sleeper." He added giving them a wink as he drew his pistols spinning them as turned to leave.

"Cassie watch Alfie, we're gonna see the big man and don't worry Alfie as long as you keep it civil I'll keep him from laying a hand on you." Reno answered, he wasn't a fan of playing the middle man, but right now he was the only impartial person among them all. So he was going to have to play peacemaker... And out here that usually meant talking from behind the barrel of a drawn gun.

---

After only minutes of keeping watch, Cassie received word of a special visitor requesting her presence. As for Reno searching for his superior. The Spartan king was, well, Theo was currently... preoccupied with the wedding preparations...

---

[Heretic]

---

Cassandra Voss & Cap'n Hook

A collab between @Heretic and @beyond visions

---

Rylan Kane, or by what the First Combatant is better known as, Cap'n Hook, only ever returned to Churchill with grave warning of potential attacks on the colony or to lead his soldiers home, their home. This was not home to him, a fox-hole was, or a bullet riddled tent. But he arrived now, because things are different, that could mean dangerous. He felt the dire need to speak to Cassie about a threat, a threat that was unlike the many he has faced outside Churchill, because this threat lied only on the inside. And no this was not about the Overseers, they were of no concern to Cap'n.

He waited for the second-in-command while overlooking "the Crater", a dueling pit dug twelve feet deep into the Vanguard pit. His eyes squinted, watching intently as two young men, likely Initiate rank, practicing a bit of sword-play. Cap'n touched the hilt of his cutlass. He could teach them a thing or two about life and death between a blade, but that is not why he came here.

Soon he heard footsteps approach from behind. Cassie, she was finally free of the interrogation she aided the Sheriff with. "Cass..." Cap'n greeted the Right-hand with an honorable bow, which may have felt a bit awkward to her since there was once a time that she took order under his command. If there were any man deserving of all respect within the Vanguard faction, it would be Kane. It is because of that man that Churchill has not crumbled under the Outsider ambushes or attacks. Throughout all of his time within the Vanguards, Cap'n has been offered the rank of Spartan many times. However, he could never take the position, Churchill was not his home, the field was. "Rest easy yer star-buzzin' heart, thar be no trouble beyond these walls." Cap'n paused, no that was not a valid statement made. "Well... I trust that cannot be completely star-buzzin' true. Thar's a reason why I'm here... Why I come t' you, not-- "

"Cass! CASS!" It was Theo calling for Cassandra... again. Except, this time, he came running to her, rather in a hurry, and dressed quite strangely compared to what Theo often outfits himself with. That same tux that he snickered at right before the sun rose, yes, he was wearing that now. Though, it did look a little tight for the big man. "Cass! Cass!-- Cap'n Hook!" Theo ran, opening his arms up to capture Kane in a welcoming hug, "Wait-- Nope, can't do that, can't break the suit." Yes, the tux was quite restricting when it came to stretching, thus Theo was forced to simply give up on his friendly embrace. "Cap'n, how have things been-- Wait, no. Can't talk. In a rush. Can't risk keeping Isabel waiting. I want to get there early. So, we'll talk about the interrogation later-- Um... um... Do either you know how to... um... tie a bow-tie?" Apparently the knotted piece of black fabric tied around Theo's neck was in fact the bow tie, however he has tangled himself in a mess trying.

"Err... Bersek... Theo, hook, remember?" Of course, Cap'n clearly couldn't tie Theo's bow tie.

"Oh yeah... right... Cass? Help please?"

Cassie couldn't help but roll her eyes, a slight smile forming as she turned to Rylan for a moment to give him a certain look.

"Come here," she motioned for Theo, watching him as he walked towards her in his tuxedo. Cassie could barely contain herself; it wasn't everyday she witnessed the Hulk himself walking somewhat funny due to a wardrobe upgrade. But Cassie bit her tongue to prevent herself from laughing as she knew that otherwise, it would just make Theo self-conscious.

"You're moving up in the world, kid. I'm so proud of you," Cassie said as she got to working on his bowtie. Oddly enough, Cassie was somewhat relieved to see Theo worrying about his appearance. It could very well mean that he wanted to impress Isabel, and that was a start.

Once she was finished, Cassie swiped away a little bit of dirt sitting on the front side of the jacket, just below the shoulder.

"All done." she said, taking a few steps back to stand next to Rylan. "Mind if we talk for a few moments now? Alone..."

"Um, yeah, I was just about to leave-- Uh, wish me luck," In between his own anxiety, Theo forced a smile in, it was an inauthentic symbol of joy to him. As Theo took his depature, Rylan turned in response to Cassie's question, "Aye, shall we speak in th' war room, not a soul shall be a bother t' us thar?"

---

At the center of the vanguard war room was a rustic square cedar table. The reason why this table was still stable and standing was because it was bolted down into floor for obvious reasons if you knew Theo. Laid out on the rustic table was a map of London, similar to that in the muse war room, however this one had upon it figurines symbolizing the vanguard outposts. "Har har, ye know when Bersek rose from th' rank o' Initiate t' Combatant, I thought he was bein' a smart-arse by askin' about uniforms. 'Uniforms?!' I barked back at 'im. 'tis th' star-buzzin' post-apocalypse, not th' pissin' Collective army!' Har, I wasn't mad at 'im, he thought o' us that official-- glorified us, he always has been one hell o' a soldier. Even wit' th' man's tantrums you know he can fall in line, why? 'Tis that good soldier in 'im. But..." Cap'n rested his hook against the table's surface. There was a reason why he wished to be alone from the ears that may accuse and confuse his concern for treason. "Who must he be loyal t' now? Not you. You may be at a lower rank than 'im, but every vanguard has always seen you as our secret queen. 'Tis wha' kept peace between those who thought you should 'ave been Spartan aft Emery died. Hm, you jus' saw 'im, how he squeezed into that small-arse suit, why? 'Cause he's a good soldier, 'n that, what you just saw, was his uniform." Cap'n lifted his hook from the table as he folded his arms, stepping towards Cassie. "What's that Ole Earth sayin'? 'No man can serve two masters.' Theo will forget about you."

Cassie was growing uneasy by Rylan's statements. Not due to her personal feelings for Theo, but simply out of concern that she would turn into his personal assistant as the power that came with her rank slowly diminished. In the end, would Theo and Isabel be the only ones in charge of the vanguards? And if so, where would that leave her?

Cassie attempted to come up with any valid counterargument, but unfortunately, she found herself at a loss for words. The sadness that was washing over her becoming evident on her face.

"What do I do now then?" she whispered, looking at Rylan for answers. It wasn't typical for the woman to wave the white flag right away, but the thought of her becoming useless to her people was too much to bear at the moment.

"Look, Cassie...," Cap'n placed his hook against her shoulder, with the curved side touching her. "I came here t' warn you, not belittle you... I would ne'er belittle my future queen. Future, 'cause Cass, once 'tis within yer star-buzzin' grasp---" Cap'n shot a smirk before suddenly jamming his hook straight through the cedar table. "Take it! Nail yourself t' it, so no one can pry it from you, not even Theo... I likely doubt he would anyways. Besides, I know I jus' said that he will forget about you, but..." Cap'n jerked his hook out from the wooden surface, lifting it up towards his face even though his eyes gazed off in space with his thoughts. "He will ne'er be fueled by politics. Berserk has always been powered by his passions, 'tis reason why we call 'im, Berserk-- he becomes maniacal in a non-cognitive, fervent frenzy 'cause o' an intense desire fer someone he doesn't mind dyin' fer. 'tis how Theo saved Emery's life, 'cause he wasn't concern wit' his owns, only about those who he was fightin' fer 'n wit'." Cap'n lowered his hook resting it against his cutlass. "Speakin' o' fightin', ever thought about gettin' some fresh air... beyond these walls 'n back wit' yer true brothers 'n sisters, th' combatants?"

"I, um..." she smiled nervously at Rylan's suggestion, watching him for a moment to gauge his expression in order to figure out how serious he was being, but the young woman could not find even the slightest trace that'd suggest otherwise. It was then Cassie gave it some careful consideration.

"To be honest, I've thought about it a few times. I mean, up until now I knew for a fact that I was a vital member of the vanguards. But I can't quite say how this marriage will affect all of us. I've been here to support Theo, but since I won't be his support system anymore... Maybe I will be more useful with you guys out there."

The thought alone scared her, to be on the outside once more. She'd gotten used to living in Churchill, but likewise, Cassie loved her people, and feeling useless was just something she could not tolerate.

"Aye, 'tis th' spirit!" Cap'n smiled with his crooked teeth. Even joy could be seen through that one good eye of his. "Heard about the Overseers 'n about th' ship... I guess I came to Churchill just time-- reckon Berserk will want me and my men on it, escortin' whatever Overseer tak'n us thar. I'm sure he'll want us on it as soon as possible." Rylan gave Cassie a light playful jab to the shoulder with his hook, "Hope 'tis place hasn't made you lazy! Enjoy the wedding, Cass, but hope you consider leaving early to brush up on your skills in the Crater, that'll be where you'll find me."

"Are you kidding? I'll show up super early just to show you how good I've gotten since the last time we saw in each other in combat."

Cassie smiled back, waving at Rylan before she headed to her room to get ready for the wedding ceremony.

"I hope you bring your A-game my friend, just because we've learned from each other in the past doesn't mean I'll stop teaching you how it's done."

[beyond visions]

---

Carmen Comfort & Dr. Thea Jackson
& Agoston Gregory Szabó

Collab between @beyond visions, @Ellion, @Blubaron45

---

Carmen leaned into the crib with the little Atlas snug in her arms. He was fast asleep, so peaceful it felt to Carmen to be blanketed with the toddler's heat. Gently she laid him down into the crib before gracing one of her laced fingers against his cheek. She named the child after her favorite brother. Of course, Carmen probably should not have a favorite sibling, but she would only be in denial if she said otherwise. There those that you simply bond with more, almost as if it was just a thing of nature.

After kissing Atlas on the forehead, Carmen turned to gaze at her child once more before making her exit out of his bedroom. Now, she most focus her minds on the duties of being the Victorian... Whatever that meant.

---

The masterminds and muses both had their own house built not too far from their main faction building. For the masterminds, their main faction building was the library, thus near it was the Victorian's quarters. There in her quarters, Carmen sat at her desk in her personal office. She had a glass of champagne cupped in one hand, waiting for both the Master Physician and her Second-in-Command, the two whom she had summoned. It may have seemed like an emergency for her to call for their presence at her personal office, unless they were instead suspecting that Carmen wished to play information broker instead. But no, it was none of those things.

"Oh, yay, you two came!" Carmen squealed happily upon the arrival of Thea and Agoston. "Champagne anyone? Thea, you? What about you, Mr. Wizard?" Carmen held up the bottle she set down on the desk with two extra glasses put there also. "I know you might think it's a little two early, it being late morning and all, but hey... It's quite the day to celebrate, isn't it? It's not like I voted against this marriage, but they followed through with it anyways. Oh wait, I did." And with that, Carmen took a sip.

Thea examined the room the same way she examined those in her care. With an eye of skepticism, looking for hints of what really was going on for the good of the injured. Whether they wanted it or not. She waved the glass away before sliding her clean hands back into her spotless apron that she used for her make shift surgical robes. "I have to return to the hospital as soon as we've....finished here," her voice was cold and irritated. But it was just the way she was, only her own son ever saw her 'softer side' even then most would find that 'chilly'. "I have Megan closing up stitches of a muse right now, he'll probably be dead before I return,"

Despite the tension between the factions, Thea still serviced and charged them all. "You should have had more support when you cast your vote. I am sure the seconds of all other factions where there. You must have seemed weak and inexperienced enough to discount,"

"I supposed, I shall get right to the point, why have you asked us to come. Not for drinks I am sure,"

"Aw, come on, Thea, you just need to-- I don't know-- chill, relax a little bit." Carmen seemed a bit fidgety when it came to finding a comfortable position in her seat. "Well... fine..." Carmen put down her glass, brushing back a few blonde strains away from her face. "This marriage-- really it's an alliance, masqueraded as a marriage-- I honestly didn't have much say against it, couldn't seem too passionate either, not when they pitched it as something so positive as draining out the bad blood between rogue and warrior. Also, couldn't be too passionate, since it would seem personal... But what can I do about it now, hmph?" Something. Carmen was known, not for raw intelligence, but for strategy , deception, being utterly cunning and even cutthroat, if she has to be... or honest sometimes, if she has to be. "You know me. You know why I would want to go to their wedding. It's the breeding grounds for some juicy gossip! I also just need to know how it goes... up close. To see Theo and Isabel up close, see if it even looks promising. Check the chemistry between the two... Of course, I wouldn't wish to go alone." Carmen stood abruptly from her seat, leaning in towards the two "Listen... You might not know what I'm up to.. but I'm up to something... and I'm curious... about something. So... come with me?"

"Seems futile to show up uninvited for a wedding with out knowing the extent of your plan. I probably won't like it," Said Thea shortly. "On the other side, does your plan have anything to do with the Overseer's who have made themselves welcome among the happy couple?"

Carmen gave a long disappointing sigh before saying a word, "Do I have a plan... Yes... I always have a plan... for everything. All well thought out too..." Carmen muttered this quietly, uttering with a much more serious tone. "But... I am not King of the vanguards, nor am I his wife. So I have no say over them... Not yet that is." Carmen was right, the vanguards were charge of all things concerning Churchill's safety and it's military. But for things that mattered to the colony's health, engineering, or wealth of knowledge, the masterminds were responsible for that. "The time to be involved with the Overseers will have to come later... but it will come." Carmen sat back down in her seat, this time sitting upright, straightening her posture. "If you don't wish to come, Thea, fine. Just how about you have a little bit more faith in me? Remember no one saw it coming that the First Historian's dumb blonde apprentice would defeat the former Victorian at a game of chess. Things just don't seem the way they are, and it's better that way. Fool an opponent with their impulsive assumptions."

"If you are planning something rather dastardly, I should like to remind you that this will not go with impunity." Agoston added before playfully swerving his cool champagne glass he had just served himself. The bearded old man then took it upon himself to whirl the glass just over his nose to breathe in the odor as he would with any chemical. It had an aromatic smell of grapes through his olfactory just before gulping on the cold and smooth beverage. It was a cool and refreshing small moment that he savored; the acidulous explosiveness of ripe grape and the essence of the bubbles that felt like crystalline pearls. He was a man who enjoyed life's subtleness, a trait that often regretted never truly appreciating in his youth.

"That's a fine champagne." There were truly no other words to describe it simply because there needn't have been. "Though I suppose if you should be up to something..." He amiably smiled through his large bushy beard looking up towards Carmen with his light blue eyes, there was a reason why everyone called him the Wizard. It was his charming appearance that often eased a conversation, his quiet yet firm monotone voice soon reminded everyone of an old grandfather who had been wise past his years. Though he was a man who could easily be swayed if something devious were to be proposed, especially if it sounded fun. "We should out-strategist them regardless of anything, we are renowned for that prowess after all. Those idiot jocks wouldn't stand a change." The old man chuckled almost deviously, grinning even harder than before. "Oh, what the hell: count me in."

"Oh yay!" With a light clap of the hands, Carmen smiled with glee. "You see, this is why I like you, Mr. Wizard." Carmen gave a point at Agoston as she held her glass. "Always up for a little fun, although.... I'm not planning to spice up any trouble, not on their wedding day, of course! But... I would love to, I don't know, observe." Carmen a gave a little giggle after that sentence, drawing the champagne up to her lips. Though, before she could even take a sip, Carmen pulled back the glass, "Thea, I understand you're a busy woman. Lives do need saving, and I have a few of the other Masters joining me. Just... don't work yourself to death, okay?"