He is a lord sporting a wicked black eye, blood on his sleeve, and black powder marks on his sinister hand. That alone would be strange, if not for his seeming disregard for station, and this man is truly a strange fish.
"Mr. Halfmen." Synxol nods in greeting to the large Scot.
He reads the letter over twice, folds it and places it in an inner pocket. Taking a moment to consider his course of action, he waits for Assisi to flay the packaging of his own parcel.
The man was unknown to him, so he retrieves the sketch and turns it around to the others, "Do either of you know this man?"
Assisi notes Lord Baelstrad's strange behaviour, shrugs, and picks up the book he is to translate. It is wrapped up, and he wishes to preserve it, so he leaves it like that and checks to see if it will fit into his valise.
He also collects the key and the paper provided to him.
Lord Baelstrad soon shows a sketch of a man to him and to Mr. Halfmen; but Assisi does not recognize the man.
He also looks at the drawing style itself, to glean what he can about the artist.
The book manages to fit in your valise barely, the leather bound book looks like it has been around for a number of years as you can feel the age of the book, it weighs 4 lbs. As for the name Doctor Frankenstein, you both feel that the name should be familiar to you but nothing seems to come to mind.
The artwork is impressive, almost lifelike in it's quality however, no specific artist comes to mind, unless it could be Richard Wilson, who had returned from his stay in Italy, back to London. Perhaps he could be tracked down and mayhaps answer a few questions about this man.
OOC: The book is supposed to be by Dr. Frankenstein. But nobody has mentioned him...
OOC: Sorry the name is on the cover of the book I should have described that. As for the artist, he should know that name of his client. Will have another post soon
Assisi will get another history roll as soon as he hears the name. Assisi will get a + 2 to the roll.
Assisi: as you secure the time in your valose, the cloth covering the book slips off. You read the title: The work of reanimation of the human body and mind after death. A working theory by Doctor Viktor Frankenstein M.D.
Looking at the provided sketch, Jack leafs through his memory, seeing if anyone pops out as his grey eyes moves over the sketch.
"Hmm, looks a wee bit familiar, let me think," Jacks gaze narrows a bit. "I be positive that I seen him before. Be fairly recent at that." the big Scot says confidently. as he hands back the sketch.
"Now, what in the bloody hell did he call himself," Jack taps his chin as he sorts through names and faces in his mind's eyes.
Assisi is annoyed as the cover slips off the book. He is somewhat shocked by the subtitle he reads.
OOC: Which language is it in?
He takes another look at the picture.
"I think I do recognize him, actually." He points at the book. "Is it Dr. Frankenstein? I seem to recall an article in Corante, or weekely newes from Italy, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Bohemia, France and the Low Countreys which had a very small version of a similar sketch. I have not ever met him. Why do you ask, Lord Baelstrad?"
Synxol nods along with the others as they recognize Dr. Frankenstein. "I have need to find the good doctor, and will provide a rather large stipend for your services in assisting me in this matter gentlemen."
The young lord returns to his seat, dead lifting his tea into his gullet. "250 now, and 250 after we find the missing doctor....each."
Jack: local legends tell some of the tale of what Dr. Frankenstein did while, as a med student dug up many of the recently deceased and somehow managed to bring something back from the dead. Although this legend was an old one, no one really knew when it had started..
Assisi: You remember reading that during the second resurgence of the black death that Dr. Frankenstein had created a theory on how to defeat death itself. The Doctor had lost his sister to the black death in 1679 and had to the second black death. The theory involved a new discovery of an older science. The paper was old but still was making trips as people still debated the scientific research on the process.
The church claimed that the paper was false and it was heresy to try and bring back the dead. Only the son of god could do that. Officially the denenied that Doctor Frankenstein existed. Unofficially you heard rumors that he was funded by a sect in the Church.
OOC: Would bringing people back from the dead fit under a Knowledge: Arcane Lore check?
If so...
OOC: hmm after thinking about it, yes I suppose that a knowledge arcania check would work as well.
Jack: You remember seeing the man around Whitechapel looking around as if he was getting familer with the area. The nightlife crowd did give him a distance, as if sensing a predator bigger then them. Or it could have been the giant of a man following him, carrying a crate that looked like it weighed half a ton.
The man carrying the crate was dressed all in black who was taller then you however, the you couldn't get a good look at his face. While that was odd, you at the time were more focused on finding one of you charges, who had been missing for a day.
Synxol: You remember reading a letter from Doctor Frankenstein and your grandfather discussing the theory of bringing the dead back to life. Your grandfather had mentioned the possibility of using "faith" magic, instead the arcane. The next time you had heard of the theory when you had sneaked downstairs to listen to the raised voices, it was hard to understand the words used as you were a young boy. You do remember Jennsen leaving the study noticing you, herded you back to your room.
Assisi: You know that the church officially denied that magic exists anymore, all though the people of Ireland and the Fey would have a few things to say about that. Some sects of the church still followed " Thou shall not suffer a witch to live". Of course that scripture was changed from " Thou shall not suffer a witch who does harm to live."
The clock in the study goes off, letting everyone know that it was now noon and Jennsen returns to the study with another pot of tea.
Jack let's out a low whistle.
"Five hundred pounds? That will do nicely," the big Scot says with a grin. "Very nice indeed." Jack's mind whirled as he quickly went over debts in his head. That amount, plus the rest of the money from Walker should be of immense help.
"I remember seeing that doctor you mentioned. He was being followed by a bloke who made me look like a scrawny wastrel," Jack picks up his tea cup and looks at warm liquid. "Shouldn't be any worries for me to find him once I get back to Whitechapel."
"I be ready to go as soon as I be paid the up front portion," Jack takes a sip of the tea. He salutes the elven butler with the cup. "A fine blend," the big man says speaking Gaelic, nodding to the elf.
Synxol excuses himself to inform Jennsen that one, or perhaps both, gentlemen will be working on a mutual project. The payment arrangements are explained, and he leaves the particulars to his valet to sort out the details.
"Please make yourself comfortable in the lodgings I have provided, and I will call on you in a few hours so we can begin our search. If, in the interim, you are able to 'grease some palms', to expedite our search for Doctor Frankenstein, I will cover those expenses as well."
He moves back to his desk as hemi-stipends are brought forth, and his guests are escorted out. The letter, standing on point between finger and antique oak desk, is slowly spun by the other hand as the young lord considers the import of today's events.
"Jennsen." The voice is a bit louder than he intended in bringing the elf to his side.
"Please have a seat." With this he slides the picture of the good doctor forward. "Please enlighten me of all you know about this man, and my father's dealings with him."
Synxol climbs to his feet and starts the process of collecting his father's books to scour for information that might be of use.
After putting the notes away with a grin, Jack nods to the young Baelstrad.
"I think I might be knowing just the palms that need some of that grease," Jack says with a roguish grin. Of course, most of those palms were part of his gang, but the lord didn't need to know that. The Baelstrad's certainly didn't seem to be hurting in the bank area.
"Alright Brother, let's get you to your lodgings," the Scot says as the two leave the Lord's home. He looks up and down the street, spying a few carriages.
"OIE!!!" Jack's deep baritone voice cuts through the street noise as he yells once to get the carriage drivers attention. He looks back at Brother Assisi and winks. "Bloody Welsh, have to hit 'em over the head to get there bloody attention." The big Scot chuckles.
"So, ya been in a big hurry to see your lodgings, or would ya rather eat a damn fine meal while my boyo's earn there keep and due some searching in Whitechapel?" Jack asks Assisi. "They be fine bloodhounds, have nary a fear."
Assisi takes the noon tea and enjoys it, despite the way it was prepared. He prefers coffee, but of course says nothing.
"So, Mr. Halfmen, you saw him here, in London? When was that?" He had not yet agreed to help, but it was an interesting thing to do, in no small part due to the nature of the missing person. It seemed the church had a complicated relationship to him, and wanted to keep him under their purvey.
"I suppose there is no further information about him. If we knew more about his personality, his likes and dislikes, that sort of thing, we might have a better idea where to look."
Before he leaves, he sees if he can find Lord Baelstrad once more, to ask an important question.
Jack: the time that you saw him last was a month ago so starting in Whitechapel would be the a good place to start.
Jensen asks the other two if they had any last minute questions.
Before they had left, Jack had let Jensen know where to have the young Baelstrad met them if no one was at the provided apartment. He gave the directions and the description of Maggie's tavern. The tavern wasn't hidden per se, but it was certainly a spot that only locals to Whitechapel would know about. And many of them would be hard pressed to tell you exactly where it is. He did leave the butler with something close to a warning. If the young Lord was going himself, he should be sure to tell Maggie that he was waiting for "the Scot." Otherwise, Jack mentioned that the lord would be on his own in the very wrong part of town.
*Meanwhile, in the carriage*
"Oh, it be about a month or so ago that I saw him and his big friend in Whitechapel. His big friend be carrying a crate that looked to weigh half a ton, if not more," the big Scot says. "As to his personality, he digs up the dead for mysterious reasons. He either be a crook, or a madman, and I be leaning towards madman," Jack muses out loud while looking out the carriage window. "I be much more curious as to the sudden interest in this so called doctor, and the parties that be looking for 'em. A lord from one of the more powerful families and the man from far away sent to translate." The big Scot turns to head to look at Assisi. He seems to be taking stock of the Brother. "Something reeks about this whole affair, and for once it not be London herself." Jack sighs and shakes his head. "Never should have taken this bloody job, I loath working for nobles." The big Scot watches the scenery for a few minutes in silence.
"So, you dinna answer me questions, Assisi. You hungry after walking all the way from the port? If you are staying a while, ya might want to think about getting some grub in ya. Tea ain't gonna keep the chill off yer bones lad." He glances in the Brother's direction. "And ya might be thinking about some warmer clothes, unless ya be liking the cold and wet."
* After Assisi and Jack have left.*
Synxol: Jensen takes a sit, having brought a bottle of whiskey along with two glasses. Sitting the bottle on the small table between both of you, taking the black ribbon that holds his long hair back. Jennsen pours out two shots each.
With a smile Jennsen starts speaking " You grandfather and the Doctor had known each other for a long time. Both had a certain passion for magic.". Jennsen says with no hint of distain in his voice. Most people rolled their eyes when they said the words "Magic".
Jensen slams the shot, letting the liquor warm him on the inside. Clearing the Scottish whiskey from his throat, " I took part in their discussions and offered a few ideas for Doctor Frankenstein, regretfully he made some errors and brought to life a monster whom, wreaked havoc on the general population.".
Pouring another shot for himself, his eyes take on happier tone. " Sadly one of the people killed was my third wife, your great aunt. I helped the good doctor track down his creation. I didn't think that he was still alive, the last time I saw him... it was a long time ago."
After the duo had departed, Assisi having an opportunity to present his question, Synxol is found leaning against the back of a chair, absently rolling the faceted lip of the glass against his chin. The comfort of its chilled surface belied the abusive staccato beat its facets played against his skin.
He nods as his thoughts were confirmed in regards to the confirmation that others also believed in magic. This was magic, not in the sense of faeries and legend, but in something as real as the natural laws of the sciences.
"If you were to offer me some advice Jennsen, what would it be?"
Before he leaves, Assisi tries to ask Lord Baelstrad if the letter mentioned anything about the translation; especially which language it should be in.
Back in the handsome cab, he is a little confused, but answers, "But we took a cab here together. Still, I look forward to some of your English food here, and I am sure you know the right place to go for that. "
He's quiet for a while and then he asks, "Do you think we will find the Doctor here in London, then? "
"Brother Assisi, the work of the translation was little more than a ruse, and is the premise that brings you to me. The Catholic Church wishes you to work in concert with my own efforts to track down Doctor Frankenstein."
Synxol notes whether Mr. Cappucinio takes the money, or not, before he joins Jennsen for the smooth turpentine of a Scottish whiskey.
" Caution would be best, that book that I found pinned to the wall. 'Twas the same book that your grandfather found, It was originally penned 400 years ago, in a castle that your family built. Within 100 years it tore itself to the ground. All that is left is in the family mausoleum of your house." He slams another shot, his face looks haunted by the ghosts of the past.
" Reading the aura of that book, it should act as a spell book. As for the doctor, I wonder how he managed to extend his life also, if he has managed to fix his mistake with his first golem.". Jensen finishes
Assisi had been surprised by the answer. Not so much for the ruse, but by the bluntness of it. The Great Church was always saying one thing and doing another, but they rarely admitted or acknowledged it.
After a short break in which he thinks, he agrees to the conditions and accepts the large sum of money. If this is what the church wants of him, so be it.
He is about to return the book to Lord Baelstrad when he gets a change of heart. "Perhaps I will keep the book for now, as it may provide clues about where its author may be."
As Synxol seeks out the duo once again, he requests time to glance over the book when it is convenient to Assisi. He agrees that it might indeed contain clues for things worthy of exploring further.
"What language is it in Brother?"
*Later, back in the carriage*
"Sorry, I meant from walking from the port to the outskirts of Whitechapel where I met ya," the big man clarifies his question. "I thought I overheard you and the bobbie mentioning walking from the docks." Jack rubs his temples with the thumb and first two fingers of his left hand, eyes half closed. A few moments later he speaks once more, looking a bit tired.
"Once we get into Whitechapel, we'll be losing the carriage. We be able to move faster through the alleyways. Plus, this beast stands out like a sore thumb where we be going, looks too nice and be drawing the wrong kinda attention." Jack glances out the window of the rather nice carriage.
"Me lads will be doing the initial searching to gather leads for us, they'll be needing the doctor's description, so it be good for us that ye be here," Jack grins at the Brother. "I dinna think I looked at the sketch nearly as long as you or the lord did." Having given the carriage driver the directions to get them a few blocks into Whitechapel.
"I be having a quick stop to make on the way to getting us some good food. I need to grab a tonic from an old witch I know," the big Scot chuckles. "Alright, she's not really a witch. More of a Chinese fortune teller or star reader. Not to mention a healer to the common folk. She has a shop on the outer edges of Whitechapel. Shouldn't take but a handful of minutes."
"Oh, and I be needing the address of the apartment you where given so I can set up some guards to watch it."
"I bloody well hope so," Jack chuckles. "Outside of London, I'm pretty much good for hitting stuff. I don't really have any contacts outside of the old girl."
"That, and I have responsibilities that make a wee bit difficult to leave," he adds with a slight grin.
Jack and Assisi: The carriage ride goes smoothly, once you disembark from the carriage you arrive in Whitchapel, 3 blocks away from your area of influnce. Still Jack, knows that since it is daylight; the pair of you should be safe from anyone looking for a quick pound or just a common bloodletting row.
You were dropped off near Marshalsea, so on foot it will take less than an hour to get to Brother Assisi's apartment. Maggie's Taver in close by, as luck would have it Jack leads Assisi to the tavern first and the winding ways of the alleys take you quickly to a tavern/noodle/apothecary shop. Maggie's tavern has chinese lettering on the above the door large enough to be seen at eye level.
There is no English translation, just a smaller sign that says " Tavern" which is odd to say the least. The outside looks well maintained and no one seems to pay the tavern much mind, as if the shop itself is saying " Only those welcome here will notice" indeed, it looks like only a select few locals enter business.
Upon opening the English looking door, you feel like you have been transported to the east. Half of the room has some standard Brittish Empire look, The tables look English in design, as if to better suit the common crowd. The other half of the room has jars and other Chinese artifacts such as books, incense, exotic spices.
A small crowd mixed up of all races are occupying most of the tables, there is two seats at the bar/counter where a wizened woman seems to be glaring out at all the patrons daring anyone to cause a ruckus. She moves quickly, as if age itself couldn't stop her, she could be any age over 60, and it looks like death itself wouldn't take her unless it had no choice.
As you both enter the tavern she looks at the two of you and for a second you see a macrosmile brighten her features but is gone in a flash. In Mandarin Chinese " Jackie Boy! You are so skinny you need a wife to fatten you up! It has been so long since you were last in here, another headache! I see that your Chi in out of focus, tell me what did you see."
Maggie always knew when something was amiss with you Jack, although lately she had taken a closer look out for you. You get the sense that long ago she was looking for someone and when you showed up, she had a critical eye on you. Like when a master was waiting for the right pupil to take under their wing. No one in her family who worked the kitchen and shop, were worthy of whatever she was looking for.
(Either in the apartment or the tavern) Assisi: The book cover appears in Latin, when you finally get a chance to look at the book itself, it appears to be in a cipher. As if Latin was too common place, you see influences of Latin, mixed with Greek. You feel the ins that you will be able to break the code but it will take time.
Entering the odd tavern, Jack inhales the sweet, exotic scent rising up from the incense burners. It was a comfortable place, structured walls, ceiling and floor of English design. The rest, filled with the Oriental atmosphere (aside from the tables). At Maggie's heckling, Jack grins broadly, and shakes his head. How she knew that he had another headache was beyond him. She mentioned his Chi being out of sorts. He could never figure the "Chi" thing out. He had learned how to fight more effectively because of the Chinese, the inner balance part had always slipped through his fingers. He had heard stories about monk who could harness there "Chi" and leap higher, fight faster and stronger. 'Guess that means I'm not a monk,' he thinks, still grinning.
"And have a city full of fair maidens cry themselves to sleep? That would just be cruel." Jack replies to the old woman, speaking in Mandarin Chinese. Quick as a flash, he leans across the bar and gives Maggie a peck on the cheek. Just as quickly he leans back, dodging the expected smack, or at least attempting, she was a sneaky old bat.
Taking a pull off of a glass of an almost black beer, Jack sets the glass down and looks at the contents for a few moments.
"I saw a man wearing strange clothes and a tophat. He welded a long razor, and had slain..., a number of people I'm protecting. They were still calling out to be saved. He greets me by name, and I have the oddest feeling that I know him from somewhere, but I just can't place him," Jack retells what he had seen, slipping back into his accented English. His eyes are dull and tired. Shaking his head, Jack takes another pull from his frosty beer. "One of the more vivid daymare I be having, left me with a bit of a bleeder." The Scot taps his hawklike nose.
"Maggie, this be my newest friend, Brother Assisi," Jack suddenly changes the subject, turning to the dark skinned Brother. "He come all the way from Rome to say hello to a few people," Jack introduces the two. "Assisi, this be Maggie. She be a good friend to me and those I protect."
Finishing the rest of his beer, Jack glances around the Oriental styled tavern common room.
"Oh, the brother here was looking for some good food, and I told him this be the best place around," Jack says tipping the brim of a non existent hat to Maggie. "Oh, and there will be another meeting us here, he'll be waiting for us if we are out. Secondary employer," Jack says with a shrug of his shoulders, speaking in Mandarin. The Scot gives her the young Baelstrad's description, including the black eye. He doesn't mention that he was a Lord, that didn't really need to be known.
"Go ahead and order Brother, Maggie knows that I be looking forward to some noodles and spicy fried chicken," Jack looks at Assisi and chuckles, switching back to his accented English. "I've got to get a message out, be right back."
Jack heads out the door, closing it behind him with a deep belch. Looking around for one of his lads, easily spotted by the red bit of cloth tied around their head, or hat. Some of the lads took who had earned their Red Caps, would be useful, but he had them working a few different night time jobs. He just needed a few Runners, they happened by Maggie's frequently, so it should be a long wait.
The big Scot sighs, silently cursing the fact that he had not brought his pipe with him.
Synxol: After spending hours trying to find more information on the theories of reanimation, you remember Jennsen had mentioned "golems". Finally frustrated at the gaps missing in the study you hear Jennsen come in with message.
The note has directions to a tavern and apothecary in one. Realizing that Jennsen's information and the research had taken a few hours, the itch to go out for a few hours takes hold.
The fact that Jack and Assisi would be there helped. As the fact you have never seen the inside of "Maggie's tavern" you have heard rumors of the place alas you could never track down where it was at.
Jennsen appearing no worse or any evidence of drinking has laid out a different type of clothing for your travels.
They appear well made, but designed to help you blend into Whitechapel. Perhaps Assisi had looked at rge bleeding book
Jack: You had tried to dodge the light hearted smack from Maggie, you ducked right into the blow. With your words about what you had seen she paused. Slapping down a lime green liquid in a small bottle. She slips it into your jacket pocket with a note saying "drink before you sleep."
Barking out your order, she gives a smile at Assisi, waiting for his order, sliding over a glass of red wine.
The five red caps appear as if from the ether. They take your orders quickly, and move out without a qualm.
Assisi smiles and nods when introduced to the old woman. "A pleasure to meet you, Maggie. This is a fine establishment you have here."
After trying hard to understand the banter between Jack and Maggie, even the English part, and failing miserably, he is asked about food, and, realizing his hunger, agrees heartily. "I would like to taste the noodle and spicy fried chicken as well. And an ale to go with it, if you please."
He turns and looks around the place, seeing what other kind of person is in here and what they are doing. England is a very different place, and the nuns at the orphanage had not mentioned this kind of establishment, though of course he knew of their existence. The lord would not do well to draw attention to his station in a place such as this, if it is anything like Italy. Assisi would have to call him by his first name, he supposes.
After Jack steps out, Assisi finds a table in a corner and breaks open the book again, wondering if it is coded Latin or something similar. He looks through the pages for indications, and takes careful note of any illustrations therein as well, wondering what it is all about.
Synxol glances up at the exotic structure before him, his nostrils flaring momentarily in disgust as the stench of the unwashed assails them.
To the carriage driver he says, "Remain close."
Entering, he uses the premise of tugging his gloves, finger by finger, to scan the room for the duo.
Words, both written and spoken, wash over him: he is more than equal to the challenge.
As Synxol seeks out the duo once again, he requests time to glance over the book when it is convenient to Assisi. He agrees that it might indeed contain clues for things worthy of exploring further.
"What language is it in Brother?"
OOC: Loki, Are you trying to understand the conversations around you or is that roll for reading the book of Doctor Frankenstein? Either way nice roll.
Assisi: Maggie gives a grunt at your order drinking the glass of red wine, she nods slidding over an ale. After sitting down, the urge to look ovet the book is too great. It reads as if a medical book although you quickly realize that somehow this book is off.
The details of the sketches supperceded all current medical knowledge, however this feels old as well. The words shift in the book, trying to mask the text from your practice eye. With a start you realize that Synxol has arrived and your food is cooling.
Their is a hint of an ancient Greek or perhaps Sumerian. Not every word but in the subtext of the first third that you have managed to find.
OOC: Oh, that's for the book. I imagined Assisi muttering to himself as Synxol approached.
Assisi realizes Lord Baelstrad has spoken to him, and that his food is getting cold. He quickly stands and says, "Oh, L - Synxol, my friend, good to see you again! Jack has stepped out for a bit. The book is in Latin, but it is a very confusing form of Latin. I don't know how the author understood himself while writing it. Do you read Greek, or any other ancient language? Oh, what happened to your eye? A woman?"
A wry smile accompanies his face as he shakes the hand of Synxol, offers him a seat at the table, and then sits down and begins to eat his cooling dinner.
He hopes he has not offended the young lord. Some prefer men, or boys, but Assisi could never tell just by looking at them.
Realizing that he had been gone a bit longer than he had planned, his runners's had been apparently been busy. He had given them each some pounds to help them to see if they could find the Doctor, or the big bloke that he followed the grave robber around. Rounding the corner to the tavern, Jack noticed a carriage, with the driver smoking a pipe. The sight was enough to give him some pause. 'I be thinking the lordling has arrived,' he thinks with a amused grin.
Walking back into Maggie's, he was just in time to pick his noodles and chicken up as he walked past the bar. Assisi had found himself a table and someone he didn't immediately recognize. He blinked in surprise when he realizes that it was the young lord. Either the Lord was good at dressing down, or his butler was excellent at finding a disguise for the lord to wear. He was betting that it had the elf, but wasn't counting the lord out yet. Well, at least as long as he had notes to send Jack's way.
"Ahh, Mr. Syn, so good of ya to be joining us," Jack says as he flops down in a chair that creaks under the big man's weight. He tucks in and devours his bowl of noodles and chicken, chopsticks clicking together occasionally. The Scot listens to the two learned men talk for a while. His eyes never stop moving for long as he keeps tabs on the coming and goings of the rest in the room.
Casually ordering whatever alcohol they served in such a place, he sits, his entire demeanour surprisingly relaxed. Though his close are finely cut, and tailored to his frame, he carries no additional adornment in the form of jewels, or expensive baubles.
His hand thrusts forth, a rapier blade made flesh, collapsing into a warm handshake at the last moment.
"May I?" Synxol's fingers lovingly move about the tome, as he seeks out any additional information, before eviscerating it, so he can look within.
Latin was his first language, and he was trained in ancient greek.
"Always a woman it seems."
The book cypher itself is quickly broken the text of the book discusses the theory of using focal points that occur naturally in the aura of a living being.
The theory is that magic is used to attach rivets into key focal points; the temple one metal stud on each side. Two on each side of the neck, using electricity from a lighting storm to help rejump the brain. The fluid needs to be drained from the base body and replaced with a magical reagent which trying to figure out the formula makes both of your heads ache.
The book also talks about bringing back the soul of the departed, thus allowing the subject to retain it's thoughts, hopes, and personality.
The first 10 pages of the tome entail the motivations of Doctor Frankenstein:
I know that this course of action my damn my soul but she is worth it, I dove into the studies of the occult, 'twas easier then my studies as a doctor. I thought that the plaque had been eradicated in the 1500 hundreds but fools searching for wealth brought a smaller if not more virulent resurgence of the black death. Stronger then the last one, I tracked down the first victim, a 'patient zero' is what she was first dubbed.
Patient zero had a name, it took a long time to find her, she was still alive, in fact she seemed to live off the deaths of those that had contracted the g+* d!%ned virus. 'Mary' is what she went by, calling herself the daughter of the night. Killing her was no small thing, but thanks to Jennsen and Sir Jullian Baelstrad, we stood against the darkness and won, losing Sophia in the battle was what brought me into my research.
Grief is what made me search for magic Jennsen, taught me enough to get by and pointed me towards more tomes of the old ways of magic. Jennsen couldn't teach me more, bound by his people's laws, and not wanting the court that he had left to start looking for him again. Elves and their damnable Fey courts, perhaps this is why we humans don't see more of them. Arthur's treaty must still be respected, that is why I've hidden these words behind a code.
A few blank pages go by and then more words are discovered the quill seems heavier the date on this page reads 1737:
Damnnation! The only things I have found are ancient works creating golems, useful things but not the answers I am searching for, Jullian mentioned faith, which had sent me on a row! Of course he is looking older refusing my offers to extend his time again on this earth. The man is brilliant and his knowledge is almost endless. His son however, seems to care more about amassing wealth. I've seen a glimmer of power on his grandson so it seems that the magic skipped a generation.
I've found a formula that slows the ravenges of time, I do not fear meeting god if and when my time comes, I just want to see Sophia again even for a brief moment. It might be time for my sleep soon, as I feel tired, but I think Jullian is right.
Synxol: You remember that your grandfather had been alive for a long time, a robust in health man, always downplaying his age and always in his study. He disapered one night and no one knew where he had gone, everyone assumed he had went out to meet his end, away from the family.
1738:
Perhaps man is not meant to play god, the.... thing I had created, woke up, I tried to work with him and he had just gone berserk. Killing many, in the sewers of Whitechapel that I had called home I must find him and end it... for the both of us.
1739:
The cold, that is what brought the end to my monster, however I finally figured out how to create something that will not be insane. Blending ancient magic with new... I called it my Homulius, it can reason, protect itself and me. I have decieded to end my quest for now in bringing back my wife, Sophia wouldn't want to come back as a mad monster to say the least. Perhaps creating another Homulius this time a female form, and if I could call her soul back, convince her of returning to this earth there might be a chance. Alas, I have put off my long sleep for too long, I will sleep for a while and see what else the future has in store for me.
1751:
something has awoken me, my creation came back to me informing me of what I have missed out of this past years. I shall have to see the city again, to see with my own eyes what I have missed.
This last entry was dated in January of last year, as you guess that the doctor had been traveling all this time, returning back to London just last month.
Synxol attempts to look bored with the reading, though his breath catches in his throat as his eyes eagerly scour across the passages time and again. Taking a few moments to discern if the blank pages had any import, his fingers and eyes searching for any indentation suggestive of writing, or the smell of an agent to write without it being seen, he gives the book one last flip through. Feigning a headache he hands the tome back to Assisi, leans back to close his eyes and rub his temples.
Traipsing around in the sewers was plan Z.
"Mr. Halfmen, it is nice to see you once again. Have you discerned anything of import?" With this he glances at the brother as well; perhaps Mr. Cappucino had learned something that would assist their cause.
Now all they needed to do was harness sufficient cold to destroy a golem...
Jack: One of the red caps bursts in, a wild look of excitement in his eyes, darting over he whispers in your ear " Found the bloke, that you were looking for he lives a bloody long while away. Patrick owed a few favors and we had some eyes out and about, past our little home, not important I know. He lives at the corner of Oxford and Bond St, big house, gated but no bobbies around for a while. Even us normal folk are keeping their distance as if something in that area feels off."
The lad couldn't be more then 13 winters old but looks like he is 8; Seanie is what he calls himself, moving quicker than many adults he uses his smaller stature for all sorts of 'jobs' he calls them.
Assisi: The lordling seems to be bored with the book, after spending some time you translate the words of the diary. However, this book feels wrong, while not evil you are certain of that, it does smack a man of faith on the nose the hubris of what this doctor did.
Very few people believe that there was another resurgence of plague as the second time around it had less tell tale signs and killed quicker. It only lasted a few short years, if the tale that the doctor wrote down was true, it would mean that he had taken care of the cause of the second plaque.
Still this book was trouble, that much is certain, if a more experienced man of the occult were able to figure out these formulas, the havoc that they could cause could be off the scale.
"Na, I haven't heard from any of me lads yet. You two find anything interesting in madman's notebook?" he asks, gesturing towards the book with his chopsticks. He had just put the finishing touches on his second round of noodles when the two had finished up with the book. Jack was glad that there were other patrons for him to watch. Watching and listening to the two properly educated men translate the book was boring, to say the least. Not to mention the few times he had glanced over and seen some of the sketches of cut open dead people, he was rather glad that he wasn't involved with the translation.
At the sight of the in door almost been knocked in, and then carefully closed, Jack can't help but grin. Maggie's glare had that effect on everybody. Still, Seanie looked so excited that he might burst, which had to mean good news, not even Maggie's stern gaze could stop him from running over to Jack. The big Scot nods after hearing the news, patting Seanie on the shoulder. The lad's face was hard to see under the his red cap, the bill being a bit longer than most other caps. His clothes helped him blend in with others, seeing as nothing (aside from the cap), really stands out on the youth.
"Good man, and good work, I knew you lads would succeed," Jack grins, dropping his deep voice so that one would be hard pressed to hear him speaking further than the table. Reaching into his burgundy vest, he pulls out some of the notes he had separated. He had them folded up so that it was impossible to tell what he exactly what he handed to the Red Cap. "Head back to the Hole, and give that to Abby," Jack tells Seanie. "And tell her to restock the larder with food this time, no poisons, or I'm gonna be.., upset."
Tipping his chair back on two legs, Jack thinks for a moment.
"After you run finish up at the Hole, you five be having the rest of the night off, unless you have work in progress," the big Scot informs Seanie. "I be working, so I might not make it back. You lot don't hear from me in three days, tell Haversin where I be at last, and tell 'em "Payback for the big favor, assume the worst," that should get him motivated."
Jack turns back to the other two and grins at the sound of Seanie's running out of the tavern, closing the door carefully behind him.
"Hope your carriage driver didn't be wandering off after a piece o' tail, because I be knowing where we need to go," the big Scot says in a normal volume. "Shall we be off?"
"Where do we need to go, Jack?" asks Assisi as he finishes off his ale and his noodles. "Are you the employer of many such boys?"
He closes up his notebook, after having written down everything he could about what they found in the tome. He closes it and wraps it back in its paper wrapping, then slides it into his valise carefully.
"Do you men both believe all this to be the truth?" It's a compelling story, but he's never come across anything like it, at least, not this closely. Miracles, yes, possessions, yes, he'd heard much about those things, but had never seen one. A few of the old brothers had, though, but he was never sure if they were exaggerating, mistaken, or a bit crazy. That last possibility is what went through his mind as the key concepts in the tome were disclosed -- that this Dr. Viktor Frankenstein is just a brilliant, insane man.
"Yeah, Oxford and Bond Street," Jack says, still leaning back in his chair. "Employer? Nah, I be the leader of the Red Caps," the big Scot chuckles. "I hate to say it Brother, but you've fallen in with the criminal element of Whitechapel." Jack's grey eyes move around, casually watching the other patrons.
"Considering neither of ye be telling what you discovered in the diary of a madman, na, I dinna believe a word of it," the big man shrugs. "But, with what Walker be paying me, and the payment from our mutual friend," he looks at the young lord, than back to the Brother, "I dinna care about the truth as long as the money be good. After all, I be hired to keep your hide intact, and find the missing madman. Anything else, be costing extra." The big man stands up and finishes the last of his first dark beer.
Picking the small vial filled with a disturbing green liquid that Maggie had given him, Jack looks at the concoction with a degree of distrust. He had slipped out of the jacket pocket where Maggie had placed while he ate, glancing at it occasionally. Sighing, he puts it in his upper vest pocket.
Realizing Jack hasn't been told what the book is about, Assisi says, "About the contents of the book - it is a topic better discussed in the cab, while moving. I will tell you therein."
He does not wish to hide things from his partners, if partners are indeed what they are...
He stands and takes out money to give to Maggie for the meal, and is ready to get out to the cab.
Synxol downs his drink and departs with the duo, his thoughts far beyond this place and time as he attempts to digest what he had learned as of late.
It takes awhile before he orients himself to the others, "Have you learned anything of the good doctor?"
The food was much better then the two of you had expected, Jack always knew that the food was always an excellent choice. Maggie always seemed to know what everyone wanted even before they ordered it, Maggie look at the three of you seeming to know that you would be off, waving off Assisi's attempts at paying for the meal by saying " Look over each other, when you get settled we'll talk about what you found." She says tapping your valise with a finger, saying " I'll want a copy of that tome, knowledge and faith can be the same things. For now come back with Jack."
Without another word she snaps her fingers and two Chinese men come and clean the table off while she walks back in her kitchen sipping at her glass of wine. Upon leaving you see Synxol's driver waiting, seeming no worse for wear, as two boys in red caps walk away with Seanie, who was chasing a beggar away from the carriage. The flavor of langquae would make a harden sailor blush, about staying away from the carriage.
The driver opens the door for the three of your or, perhaps Synxol... It could be either one, saying " Home sirrah? Or did you have somewhere else in mind, somewhere perhaps not as... lively?" He intones while waiting on his master's wishes.
"Mr. Halfmen, if you could send your scouts to scour the sewers, seeking out any unusual activities involving the sewers, or denizens of the same, that would be greatly appreciated."
A moment later he adds, "Or rampaging golems, or odd sightings of same, if you would."
Synxol considers their next move, needing a location he tells his driver, "Cambridge please."