An Open Door [Paused]

[Israel Cohen] Given the unlikeliness of any non-Full-Member of the Chantry waltzing in, Israel's opted to set things up informally in kitchen. The round table in the breakfast nook area will fit four comfortably, five on the off chance the third member of the Guardians happens to show up belatedly. When arranging the meeting she'd told Molly and Atlas there would be food [her appetite is largely returned, at last] and, of course, to feel free to bring whatever the liked. The meal set up on the table is homey fare, suitable for a cool Spring evening, with the temperatures below the 60 degree mark. A provincial beef roast with caramelized onions, carrots and new potatoes. A side plate of green beans lightly sauteed in clarified butter. Homemade crusty bread with olive oil and herbs for dipping and butter for those who like a more traditional approach. There's a pitcher of ice water, an earthenware jug of pear cider which, yes, is lightly alcoholic as good ciders should be.

As others begin to arrive and Solomon returns from wherever he'd wandered to in the house, Israel is at the kitchen sink, guide cane set aside, rinsing off preparation dishes and setting pots and pans to soak. Dressed simply today: A three-quarter-sleeve dress without finery or frivolity, light enough in powder blue to speak of Spring... modest and covering enough to give in to stubbournly cool weather. The dress hangs a little loosely: She's regained weight since coming back from the Umbra, but there is still a ways to go before her figure resumes it resemblance to a trainer sized cello.

[Molly Quincannon] Israel has seen to dinner; Molly, who'd needed a new challenge to at the very least keep her from blurting a particular piece of news across the entire community before the Chantry bods got wind of it, decided to bring dessert. Solomon being there at least gave her direction in her consideration of what area of cuisine to focus on, and since she's done peach cobbler for him already, she did pecan pie this time. With home-made ice cream. (Plain vanilla, none of the 'French atrocity' stuff he blinked at last time. She learns.)

Unless Atlas objected to it or had other plans, Molly would have offered him a ride to the House, so it's likely they arrive at the same time. Molly bounces into the House, sets her things down on the nearest available surface, and heads over to Israel - footsteps loud enough to warn her that she's on her way, trying desperately not to move too fast. "I'm going to hug you now," she says, and then does so, all glee and a kind of joy that's on a deeper level than even the usually-cheerful Cultist generally achieves.

And then, just to underscore the there-is-something-amazing-going-on-and-I-must-share-the-joy thing ... Solomon gets a hug as well. It's brief, and she lets go with a "Sorry, sorry, but I had to; there is ... I mean, there is epic good news and ... I should let everyone sit down or something. I brought pecan pie! Also ... hi?" She is quite literally bouncing up and down on the balls of her feet at this point. Something big is going on, and it even appears to be good news for once.

[Solomon Ward] Solomon had returned from the basement in time to be attack hugged by the over exuberant Cultist. There was a moment of startle as it occurred... few things shock Solomon more than unintended and unstoppable physical contact, no matter how well he may know a person. Never mind it may crumple the overly stern and drab black suit he's still wearing these days. His few experiments with colors were brief and short lived. Per usual the suit is tailored, and for more reasons than fashion. The brief hug indicates broad, shallow pockets secreted in the coat here and there, hard disc shape items hidden within. Also, the gun he habitually carries.

The smell of the basement had drifted up behind him before the door shut. Not a stink or a mold or a dampness that some may associate with these things. Cold stone and earthy dryness. The old familiar scent some detect under the bed or deep in old closets from time to time, but deeper. heavier. He's been down in there for some time.

Once released there's a nod given to Molly, who blurts every thing out at a cyclic rate, a small grin on his lips; the scar twisting effect they have is minimal, but ugly all the same. It only amplifies the natural sensation embedded in his flesh and fiber and bones. The potential for violence or benevolence. The ability to bless or kill in a belief.
"Good evening, Ms. Quincannon. And thank you, I'm sure Israel will enjoy it immensely", a soft but noticeable statement in the fact the man doesn't typically eat sweets. Pies especially. Pecans; never (strange for a man raised in Georgia, but such is life...). But the young woman meant well and so there's a gentleness in his tone, an appreciation, despite the scarring of his larynx.

After that he steps around and offers a hand to Atlas. For all they may agree or disagree on, Solomon likes the man. Ok, he likes him more and better than most. That goes a long way in his book, any other differences between them aside.

"Welcome back."

[Atlas Mason] Atlas did indeed arrive with Molly, he was replenished of course, his mind and his body had had time to rest and rebuild. He was still thinner then he was before, but unlike the other survivors of the Sendings nightmare realm a more permanent change had taken ahold of him. His hair had taken on an almost salt and peppery feel. The edges of his eyes had taken on an older feel as the crows feet had settled onto his face.

He stepped through the door and unlike his rather spunky and excited partner, the Etherite took his time, taking a moment to look around at the chantry, which was now...barely worth the name. He then stepped through, headed for the kitchen where he gave both Solomon and Israel a slow nod.

"It is an appropriate juncture within the time space continuum to analyze and corroborate your direct physical and noospheric personages." He said with only the slightest of smiles. The man still seemed tired, still unlike his old self in some ways.

[Atlas Mason] Solomon offers his a handshake, and Atlas returns the shake, it is not as strong as it once was...but the grip is slowly...slowly returning.

[Israel Cohen] Israel isn't surprised when Molly speaks: There are plenty of cues beforehand. Her ears are sharp and the door opening, the sound of footfall - especially Molly's deliberately productive ones - are given name from knowledge that they were coming and, no doubt, the small womans uncanny awareness of Resonances. Many a Mage builds their awareness of things magical, mystical and supernatural: Deprived of her sight, it's just another sense that she's honed and paid attention to with perhaps greater care than most. Necessity. Of course she is already smiling - less wan than the last couple of weeks certainly - when they arrive, a smile that broadens [still laced with lingering tiredness - the process isn't precisely complete yet and the nightmares linger, though less violently day by day] when Molly speaks and hugs and speaks some more. The hug is returned, warmly - literally and figuratively - and then an ear inclines towards Atlas' voice. Warmth and concern flicker in hazel eyes that once more lack the true focus of vision... "I'm glad you could both make it."

And then, taking up her guide cane, she waves towards the direction of the table. "Everything's good to go.. let's sit down. Nathan won't be able to make it, I'm afraid -- so there's no need to hold yourself back, Molly." The last with a flex of her lips both bemused and indulgent. Aware of the restraint the woman is barely managing. And yes, curiosity as well over what has her so excited. Good news will certainly be welcome.

[Molly Quincannon] "Hey," is Molly's response to Israel's comment about holding herself back, "self-control is a thing we learn and practice and everyone here knows I'm bad at it so I need all the practice I can get. Anyway. Concisely put as possible. Before he left, Lucien showed me this spot off Division Street and told me to do something vulgar. ...I mean magically." Almost everyone at the table has met Lucien, after all; such things need to be clarified. "So I did my handful-of-Correspondence-shifted-light trick and ... no backlash. And you know how much the universe loves to beat on me. Basically, while it needs to be tested a little more thoroughly to figure out exactly how limited or not it is ... there's a section of Chicago where there is no Paradox if there are no witnesses at least. Seems like everything that went down in the area shifted Consensus in a serious way and it might not be permanent, I've been warned, but ... Consensus shifted. In our favour! And now there's this spot where there can be vulgar magic without being beaten over the head by the universe!"

[Solomon Ward] He finished shaking Atlas' hand, the grip firm though Solomon had never been the type to use the 'prove manliness via crushed fingers' approach to the hand shake. Just a firm shake and a level look in the eyes before he let go and followed every one into the actual kitchen proper.

Then Molly drops her excited round of information and the man takes a moment, looking thoughtful, before he speaks. "It's possible. I've heard of short lived localized events in the past, but indeed. We'll have to test it out and see how it goes."

[Atlas Mason] Atlas follows and finds himself a seat. He lets Molly do her talk, sharing the information she had practically been bouncing off the walls of the Lafette to share with the community, but had waited till now for the sake of security, and for the sake of their cabal.

Atlas of course showed no surprise at the news himself, he simply looked about at Israel and Solomon waiting to see their reactions to this news.

"My personage has been preparing a method for ascertaining the specific spatial dimensions of this aberrant locality. I believe a generalized paradoxical wave length should appropriately identify the extremities.

[Nathan Spriggs] It was half way through Molly's statement of 'something vulgar' that Nathan showed up with a quiet turn of the front door's knob and that annoyingly loud creak that follows you with every door you open and every step you take when you're trying to be silent.

Some called it fashionably late. He just called it a bum night. Discussing Mage politics was not his idea of spending a good night out, especially after the sudden canceling of another social activity elsewhere. Time was money and he seemed to waste a lot of time uselessly these days.

[Israel Cohen] Israel's response is probably closer to what Molly would expect at such news: She blinks with surprise at first... and then smiles. It isn't exuberant like Molly is given to be, but it's undoubtedly pleased, perhaps even a touch... moved? Such events are rare at best these days. And it's the first time that an event like this in Chicago has potentially resulted in a boon of this nature. So perhaps what is moved in her is actually grateful.

The front door opens and a Resonance unmistakeable to Israel shifts into the home, mingles with the others. Her eyebrows arch slightly, head canting to one side. "I guess Nathan could join us after all...." surprised, but pleased. Lifting her voice slightly [which automatically makes it hoarse] she asks towards the hallway that Nathan is no longer walking down. "Did you hear Molly's news?"

Then there's a flicker flash of a glimmer: Thoughts whirring briefly. Speculation. A tracery-touch of excitement. Possibilities. She sips at her cider with a touch more eagerness than she's displayed for food in quite some time: "That is... wonderful news. Even if it doesn't last long it's still something. Proof. Promise. And it's possible it just might be absolutely a boon for some of the matters I'm going to bring up tonight... first, though, Solomon has some news regarding the Node, I believe..."

[Molly Quincannon] Enter Nathan, and Molly doesn't let him get as far as the table; in fact, he barely gets into the kitchen door. She's out of her chair in the blink of an eye after she figures out who's just arrived, all bouncy with a deep, hyperactive sort of joy, and she steps forward, cups his face in her hands and kisses him. Because she has some idea that there's a propriety deal, it's not what one might term a 'make-out session' ... but it sure as hell isn't a peck either. It's a kiss that says 'Cultist' - it gives, first and foremost, and takes little but the experience of it.

(This is always assuming that he does not pull away. Such is a possibility, and one that she will deal with if it happens.)

Whether he pulls away or lets the kiss happen (or returns it; stranger things have happened), she does not look apologetic at all, and the flush of her cheeks is not entirely a blush, and goes well with the slightly mischievous, slightly promising glint in her eyes. "Glad you could make it," she tells him. "Do I get to repeat the news that has me so excitable? Or did you manage to listen at keyholes? There's also apparently Node news."

[Solomon Ward] Solomon moves to the window as people speak, exchanging back and forth. News that is indeed news worthy, but with a thankfully more light hearted banter and excitable appeal to it than most of these meetings in the past have gone. The top two buttons of his suit jacket are undone in orderto reach into one of the thin pockets he has custom made and custom tailored into the lining. A small disc, perhaps the size of a small(ish) sand dollar comes out. A perfect circle of metal with inlays and carvings, parts of the interior removed, and the geometric shapes that remain inside it further inscribed in the precise ritual method common to the mans Workings.

This is set on the window seal that looks out from the kitchen of the house. Another is produced and set, standing on its own edge, over the door way into the kitchen. A sense of his Resonances manifesting as the Goetian seals devoted to St. Michael did their work of sealing off the rooms conversation to outsiders.

"Yes," in response to Molly's mention of node news.

"Catherine is awake".

[Nathan Spriggs] Nathan isn't even half-way in when he's caught in a very special greeting, the kind that takes him almost entirely by surprise and one would expect in a chick flick's conclusion. It takes him about a second, perhaps a bit less, to get over the surprise and return the kiss albeit possibly with not as much force as she'd given it. Failure to do so would probably be grounds for losing the man-card in this kind of situation.

When he's done, Nathan cranes his head to the side slightly to see who's at the meeting and how things are looking before turning back to Molly and shaking his head. "I heard something that sounded like the Consensus shifted for the better? If that's not why, then nope." Then, entering the room and giving a small nod of his head and raise of his hand in greeting to each and every one of them, he took a position against the wall just right of the doorway.

"So how far into things has this gotten?"

[Israel Cohen] Israel is aware of what all else Solomon has to add to the subject: Not having anything further to add at the moment she instead looks thoughtful, pensive, obviously mulling over new ideas while the others exchange the pertinent information. And she eats: Which no doubt makes at least three people in the room happy. And if she nudges the plate of roast and veggies closer towards where she feels and hears Atlas seated, then so be it.

[Molly Quincannon] "Well, wow," is Molly's comment to Solomon's bit of news - she's heard about Catherine, but never met her. "Good news all over the place. These things happen in threes, they say. Or maybe we're finally getting some good karma payback or something. She's okay, though? I mean, you can be awake and not be necessarily ... okay, y'know?"

And yes, Molly spots the food being nudged over to Atlas, and she murmurs, as sort of an in-joke, "gottaeeeeeeet" in a voice that tries for high-pitched robotic and succeeds relatively well.

[Solomon Ward] "She is diminished, but fine" he says, taking a seat at the table and idly moving for plates and spooning food and salt and pepper, the mild and unexciting dynamics of preparing to eat, as he speaks.

"Spirits... Catherine is a very unique and individual spirit. Usually when one gives themselves to empower a Node, they ...cease to exist. The essence of what they are dissolves into the node. A spiritual entity can be tied to a node as a guardian. I have an Umbrood I use as a guardian for the same purpose; but Catherine is different. She IS the node. Restricted in physical boundary, but sentient, conscience, and capable of things that regular spirits and Nodes are not. She's both, rolled into one. When a Slumbering entity sleeps, they do so to replenish and heal. Some times they awaken on their own, and other times they may require help. I've been noting the Node and studying its reduced out pout and the consistency of its Quintessential outflow. Everything is well regulated and stable, if weaker than it once was. So now... She's awake."

He doesn't go into the details of how or why she's awake. She simply is. He's been in there with her quiet a bit since the change of consciousness.

"There may be a way to strengthen the Node and its output. There may also be a way, because of how unique and individual she is, to even move her short of a Master of Brill--- Prime. Of course the concerns of a suitable site, and whether or not the local mages believe its the right thing to do prevail, but that's why we're here... ."

[Atlas Mason] Atlas had sat there in his chair, remaining quiet for the initial part of the meeting. Theories had been tossed around, suggestions had been made, all of these things were important, nay, necessary and inwardly Atlas was pleased that such positivity existed. Outwardly the man remained cool, and for the moment uninvolved.

A further bout of joy filled the room when Nathan arrived, not simply because of the man's arrival but because of the welcome that he recieved, Molly was quick to pounce upon the man, and delivered a welcome few men would not cherish and respond to, Atlas for his part turned away and watched Solomon as he began his wardings, preparing their meeting place for the sensitive issues that were surely to be discussed.

A mention of Catherine is made, of the woman that was a node was at this moment, almost more woman, and this brought a curious look to the man's face almost that hint of wonder he contained months ago. "A temporal period would be advantageous and positively requested to interact directly and indirectly with the etheric quantification known as Katherine, at a juncture within the near chronological time frame of course."

He had thoughts on that, a drive that was slowly rekindling that made him want to get up right then and there and seek her out. But his thoughts are interrupted when Israel, sightless but not blind slides a plate towards him, and Molly makes a joke. He looks between the two women and with a sigh, took the plate and began to pick at the food upon it. "For your individualized noospheric assimilation, I ingested one whole unit of condensed sterilized and nutrient enriched Bos primigenius prior to arrival at this locality...but very well."

[Israel Cohen] She responds to Atlas first, as they are the easiest to give an answer to -- first with a flex of a smile. "Then you can have some of the potatoes and veggies since you already had beef. Or skip directly to the pecan pie." So long as you eat well -- unsaid but heard. And then, "Catherine communicates differently to those who meditate at the Node. I've only ever seen successful starting of the 'conversation' with the use of Mind and-or Spirit, but that's only for people who tried to initiate the conversation themselves. She's fully capable of reaching out on her own and engaging by other means for her own reasons."

She should know: Catherine once 'rode' Israel's body for her own needs. The experience had been exhilarating and utterly daunting and draining all at once. "But I encourage communication: She is fascinating and, well... the experience is well worth it." And apparently hard to sum up in words.

Then inclining an ear towards Solomon's voice, her free hand coming to rest lightly on his knee. "The possibility of Catherine being able to assist in 'moving herself' is, I think, important: I think we can all agree that the location of this Chantry and Node has been compromised far too often for any of us to feel entirely safe here. It may well be time that we consider moving the Node and building a new Chantry... and if this promising, wonderful news about the East Village area proves true, maybe we can use that carefully to our advantage and build something.... not just safe and functional, but maybe even wonderful... without exploding ourselves or drenching the location in Paradox and its Resonance."

[Molly Quincannon] Molly just looks at Atlas - it's fond and teasing, but it's also pointed. "Beef jerky is not food. Great Google, you'd think there wasn't a fridge full of nukeables that have all the food groups in them in the galley. Which there is. Israel's going to think I'm useless."

Then, to the matter at hand. "So we think that Catherine can be moved somewhere ... else. And now we've got this spot that, while we still need to examine it a bit, has the Consensus set in our favour right now. Hrmmmm..." It's for effect, the thoughtful look. "I think that Convergence just smiled on us a little."

Then, as she serves herself some dinner, she adds, "Incidentally, you know how there are a few people in the wider community that won't have anything to do with anything that even remotely carries the name Chantry? Well, we - Nathan and I, and Callista's getting in on it too, and any other help is welcome, seriously - are working on some way around that. Not a Chantry, with a node or anything, but a Sanctuary. Strictly apolitical with no particularly spiffy magical areas; just a place for people to crash or hide out or just hang out, if they don't like the idea of being affiliated with a Chantry but still need to be in touch with the community at large, y'know? Plus, if any of us end up on radar? It's a place to hide out that doesn't compromise Catherine. She's had enough hardship."

[Solomon Ward] "You know I think about the term 'Chantry'?" looking up over his plate, idly cutting this and that apart with fork and knife at Molly's valid and well pointed out topic of Chantries and old mages and new mages and wayward mages etc...

"Fuck them", on a manner very non standard or typical for the man. Oh, he swears from time to time, but its usually under duress or times when people might consider swearing appropriate (even if swearing is meant to not be appropriate....)

"They don't have to be involved in it. It is their choice. They can call it an arcade, or a crash pad, or High School, or Community College, or the Hobby Store... What ever. In the end, a Chantry is a Chantry and all the little nick names and niceties or new age 'damn the man' philosophy can be well and truly bitten in the ass. They do not have to associate with it, if they themselves choose not to. No one is sending Gestapo to collect sorcerers and force them on to Chantry proper. Frankly if their biggest issues is terminology and phrasing, I'd rather have a few dedicated souls than a raging band of retarded monkeys on parade anyway."

....

Yup.

That just happened. Some one, recently, has more or less filled up Solomon's bullshit meter. Or several some ones. Either way its full.

Then, to Atlas "I don't see it being a problem, afterwords. She's always been relatively open about who sees her, so long as she isn't put off by them," ie, the man isn't lording her in the basement. Chantry members welcome.

[Atlas Mason] Atlas considered the news that the node could be moved without the need of a master, and it just so happened that they had a brand new paradox free zone in which the node could surely flourish, well below the radar of their varied enemies.

"If this particular action point plan is indeed the agreed upon concensus then the exact esoteric particulars of this aberrant locality must be ascertained within the immediate temporal juncture." He said looking around at the others. "This necessity is of a scientific near absolute, if this locality has any form of half life or incumbent negative attributes, we must ascertain and decipher them post haste, or potentially risk the stability and functionality of Catherine."

His piece said Atlas simply looked between Molly and Israel and gave them both a glum, indignant look before tucking in like a child who had been told to eat their broccoli.

At least until Solomon began to speak about how other mages could effectively go fuck themselves and he grimaces and sets down his fork and knife. "Regulate and reassess the particulars of your vocalization Solomon, Your negative attenuations in regards to the non-amalgamated individualized personages within this urbanized center are unnecessary, and an indicator towards a negative aspirational matrix which will negate or negatively affect this urban centers traditionally aligned paradigmically activated individuals as a communal ameobic structure." He says this levelly, but this is obviously bringing up issues that had laid buried for a while now...

[Nathan Spriggs] See, these are the times when Nathan can't help but let the poker face crack. The tiny smidgen of a smile that breaks into the corner of his lips in a little curve as Solomon starts talking. It threatens to be an almost complete smile by the time he's done too, takes a good bit of self-control not to laugh.

And such self-control it takes. All of the energy has to be funneled into something productive to give him focus, like studying the surrounding, the room's atmosphere when the old timer drops his beautifully succinct opinions on the matter of Mage politics. All Nathan has to add is, "Well, as far as I'm concerned, if the Chantry is optional, then there's no reason others can't choose to have another tree house. No one ever said there's only one super secret clubhouse per team."

"On the matter of moving, I'm good."

[Israel Cohen] Much like Nathan, there are parts of what Solomon says that nearly has Israel choking on her food out of a sudden urge to laugh...
...there are also parts that, like Atlas and no doubt Molly, make her wince.

Managing to swallow without disgracing herself she opts for a drink from her glass of water before speaking: Her voice still somewhat hoarse from raising it beyond it's [frustratingly - for her] soft range when Nathan had arrived. "I absolutely agree, Atlas. While the possibility of having a wonderful place to build a new Chantry is fantastic, I don't think any of us think we should rush in and do so without first learning far more than we do now about the areas properties, facility... not to mention other notice it may be causing from unwelcome parties." Licking her lips, then... "Solomon and Nathan and I had discussed the possibility of building a new location underground: The Node is somewhat tied to an existent underground hot spring - or, at least, Catherine seems to be - which may branch out naturally and afford easier ways to move the Node and build up around it. Nathan has recently broken through a Disciple understanding of Matter," yes there is definitely pride - albeit softspoken - for her friend in those words, "Which makes such an endeavor more possible... and I think the two of you - Atlas and Nathan - would be excellent choices for preliminary examinations on whether or not the area in question is viable for such an idea if we decide to go with it."

Then, with slightly more hesitance... "I don't think we should disdain others for their choices just because they don't match our own. But I do agree that there are Mages in the city who won't use any 'group' location no matter what its focus or goals, simply because they want to be apart from others. Many of us are highly individual and isolated people in our own ways and for our own reasons. That said... part of why I called this meeting was to also talk about the operation - and purpose - of the Chantry itself."

"First of all, I think we should open up Library access to anyone allowed within the Chantry, whether a 'full member' or not. It's been thoroughly checked and checked again: There's nothing in there that is tainted from the previous owners of the house. And opening it up leads me to another issue I think we need to change: The focus of the Chantry itself. When the Society took it over it was meant to be a safe haven first and foremost. The thing is... most Mages prefer their own, isolated safe houses and spots to go underground if need be. There's no unifying element there. I think we made a mistake in not making education and open idea exchange the main reason for a Chantry in a city with several newly Awakened Orphans and no great monopoly of any one or two Traditions. Building up a place where people can come to learn and teach and train - from each other - is, I think, something such a diverse group needs.... or at least should be offered, whether people decide to act on it or not."

[Molly Quincannon] Molly's exuberant mood, which had been going strong for days and showed no signs of abating ... just dies. After an initial second of blinking in utter shock at the reaction she got, she finds something else to focus on. Which is how she ends up picking at her food and, eventually, coming out with, "If you want to move it underground, I've got a few maps of the tunnels under the city. I ... go down there sometimes. Clear out some of the smaller nasty that occasionally oozes around down there, stuff like that. Don't think I've checked that area but I've got the maps anyhow, if anyone wants to come down with me for a sweep-and-clear."

Not another word said about the Sanctuary. Not to say she won't still do it (because it is, of course, still a good place for people to hide without compromising the Node) ... but she's not defending it or asking if anyone else wants in anymore.

[Solomon Ward] "See there, Dr. Mason, there in lie the problem. Communal ameobic structure... . I didn't mean to assail your idea Ms. Quincannon, simply speak out against those mysteriously unnamed factions of people. Communal structure. What community? I don't exactly see us lining up and volunteering time. We have lives. Jobs, educations, responsibilities. Fair enough, I understand and give credit to all of that?."

He takes a moment to pause. Buying time to weight his words, or perhaps just aligning them in a manner that is less prone to upsetting people. Time he sets the fork and knife down to place his hands on the table, leaning forward slightly in a manner a touch more personal as he looks to Molly.

"What need is there for an apolitical sanctuary? Don't get me wrong... we're a democratic people in a democratic land; you, and they, can do as you please. That said... I'm constantly astounded by the idea of fleeing from nonexistent politics. The closest thing to politics that have happened in this Chantry are the clashes of personality between myself and Ms. McGowen. There are no cabals vying for supremacy. There are no Traditions with dominate control of limited resources. Libraries, quintessence, tass, artifacts. Politics barely exists here, if at all."

Another pause... Unintended, but the sort of blankness one gathers when listening to some thing, or some one, that was sudden or unexpected. Then he continues.

"I'm not trying to verbally attack you Molly. I just don't understand the point of catering to rebellious youth who disdain a place or thing or concept over a name. I, personally, find it to be inherently divisive. A sanctuary aware from the Chantry by people that don't want to be involved in the Chantry, to avoid non existent politics in the Chantry... why would it even be associated with the Chantry, if such is the case? And thats fine. Again, its an open door... but one that isn't required of all mages in the city."

"As to the stability of moving Catherine, agreed. I'm for it, circumstances and considerations allowing. Site location, funds, labor, metaphysical requirements, that sort of thing. This building has served its purpose, but in that service its too exposed. Raided by Nephandi, taken back from Nephandi, and given the number of 'non politically aligned individuals' that have seen or visited the place, its really only a matter of time until some who shouldn't stumbled across it. A move would be good, assuming everything else is feasible."

[Atlas Mason] The conversation, the meeting had taken a turn into sensitive territory as it so often did when the Chantry and how it worked or worked for others was discussed. Atlas might have been feeling tired, he might not yet entirely be back to his former self, but certain topics, certain ideas were still potent enough to draw the man up, to stoke the etheric fires that fueled his personal drive.

He had his gazed levelled upon Solomon ready to argue with the man even if they had begrudging respect for each other when Israel pipped up, talking about making the Chantry a place of learning, of opening up the library and its knowledge to all who desired it. This actually drew a smile from the man, it was a stinted thing, not as powerful because of the topic at hand, but he still smiled in her direction, worthless a gesture as it was. "Your suggested social integrative dynamic should have indeed been the primary associated action plan of this conglomerative central hub of paradigmically actualized individuals Israel." He says with a hint of pride before looking at Solomon, the smile dying.

"It is an intrinsic primordial drive of each paradigmically actualized individual Solomon. Individualized action and response is a requirement of our forward movation into actualized ascension protocol's. To hamper such activity is to hamper the ascension directive."

He shakes his head and speaks in general. "A formative motion to actualize the chantry as a generalized locality of learning and communal integration should be passed and ratified post haste to be reconsidered upon determination of localized nodal shifts and transplantation."

[Israel Cohen] The conversation goes on and while there are certainly shifting moods as a result of it, by and large, Israel does not seem discontented: If you are advocating the free exchange of ideas then there are going to be disagreements. But she is still Israel: So at some point while Solomon and Atlas speak, she scooches her chair closer to where Molly is sitting and pats lightly to feel for the girls closest arm before hugging her with one of her own, her head resting briefly - but tenderly - on Molly's shoulder for a moment. Affectionate and, silently, encouraging.

"The thing is," squeezing Molly's opposite shoulder and disengaging herself lightly, "The drive to 'ascension' is, of course, entirely personal and individual. But is it at all possible if Mages aren't willing to work together again the very enemies of ascension? And that's the rub, of course: Unify to the point of all becoming the same and we obliterate individuality, creativity, wonder, faith... but remain utterly disorganized and we're all weaker for it. We thrive when we find a way to co-mingle diversity and effectiveness... which is never, ever easy and probably not perfectly attainable."

Sipping her water [and we'll pretend she never had any of the spiked cider before because the player is forgetful!] she clears her throat repeatedly, "I speak of trying to find a way to unify because Chicago is rife with dangers. With supernatural threats of all sorts. And we've come through - with very few casualties so far, thank God - but it's sure and certain that the 'threat du jour' does not make us unified and stronger. We soon fall to small groups and cliques again. Or we get so wrapped up in threats and security that we forget how many Mages are out there without teachers of most any sort. Most of whom want to learn, but feel a decided lack of options to do so. We're more, here, than just some people with a house and Wellspring. We are none of us here," she says with absolute certainty, "Looking for a place to lord over other people. So we should act like it, which we haven't been, as a group, with a plan. So that when a new threat arises perhaps the people we work with won't be allies of the moment," her lips tweak slightly. Nathan and Solomon will understand why, "And hopefully something stronger, more cohesive, better learned..." There is a quiet passion in her voice.. and hearing it she clears her throat again. Blushes slightly, her unseeing gaze shifting briefly. "Well, it's a hope of mine, anyway."

Inclining an ear towards Molly again, "I do have a question though - not a judgement, just a question - but if your main concern is to provide other Magi with a place of 'sanctuary' if need be, not affiliated with the Chantry -- which," she grimaces slightly, apologetic, "I think it probably will be simply because people from the Chantry are spearheading it -- well, wouldn't it be safer to look into boltholes and small crash places, whose location can be revealed to people in need when the need arises? So it isn't one openly-known location? Or is the idea for more of a hang out than a sanctuary?"

It isn't judgmental: She honestly wants to know.

[Molly Quincannon] Molly looks at Solomon. "You haven't heard how this place sounds from outside, Solomon. And I'll say it outright - it's when Ashley got the deaconship that the rot set in. People started thinking that this place was under iron-fist rule, and for some people, that's exactly what it is. It might not be very political by your standards, and I get that, but not everyone has a ... rules-and-regs-oriented Tradition. And a lot of people got put off by being told that they had to talk to just one person - one who was notoriously hard to keep track of, better yet - to be allowed into the front door. What the hell kind of place is that to shelter and teach people when you've got a whole bunch of people who aren't even allowed to know where it is because that one person with the authority to let them in won't sit down with them for five minutes? Ellie James, for example. Orphan Apprentice, minimal Verbena training. She's been in Chicago for months; she was living in my house. And she was only granted access to the Chantry two weeks ago because Ashley never got back to her about being allowed in. And she's the second of three people that I've been mentoring since I hit Chicago, and I'm a freakin' Initiate. Two of those people asked me because I was the only one who was there. The other ... Ashley more or less handed Isabel off to me so she wouldn't have to deal with an Apprentice who was utterly clueless and scared as hell. Not that I minded, or mind now - glad to help - but it didn't paint the best picture of the Chantry. Now, if we could get a whole Chantry actually being there for people instead of getting their collective panties in a bunch about who has the power to grant or deny access - or even if we just divided up the job of checking people out so that we weren't relying on one person who isn't always accessible - then maybe it'd be different. But it's going to take a lot to change public opinion - not because they're 'retarded monkeys', but because they've had a lot of pretty heavy-duty experience that tells them that the Chantry is basically a club for the cabaled-up and no solitaries need apply. Ever. Hell, Ashley told a local psychic - guy named Quentin; mention Awakened around him and he goes tense - that it was either join our cause or get captured by Mirrorshades. Seriously!"

Then she sighs. "Look, all I wanted to do was give an alternative. If things at the Chantry are going to change, then maybe it's not necessary. But it might be. Because opinions don't change overnight. That's the need for an apolitical sanctuary. One, because it's a secondary target that, particularly if we can move Catherine underground, can look like a primary target, and won't lose us much if it gets destroyed. Two, because it's a gateway into getting people used to the idea that the Chantry has changed, and because word needs to spread somehow. Even to the 'retarded monkeys'." Yes, there is a snarl there, but she shakes her head and gives another sigh before she adds, "Sorry. But some of the people you're bad-mouthing aren't just avoiding it because they're on some solitary isolationist kick. It's because they got put off by people having to tell them, 'Sorry, we can't tell you where to get help and support until we can get in touch with the Hermetic, so until we can, you're on your own'. It doesn't exactly inspire confidence, you know?"

Which more or less answers Israel's question, though she does add, for the record, "Individual boltholes don't get people used to the idea of working together. So it's a little of both. And ... y'know, generally people don't see me as much a 'person from the Chantry' as they do you or Solomon or Ashley. I'm a new arrival, more or less; I'm just ... Molly. The talkative one who knows what's going on and she's got ties to the Chantry, sure, but she's not ... oh, I don't know. Maybe it's the Cultist thing; no one sees me as a political animal. Because I'm not. I'm a safe stepping stone. That's all."

[Atlas Mason] Atlas listens to Molly speak, taking in all that was said, the look on his face spoke of agreement, of finding little to fault in his compatriot's words or methodology. He took the moment to look around at the others, to see what their reactions were, to see precisely what their stance was.

For now however, the man was quiet, there was no real opposition, so he would wait to see what was said, and respond accordingly.

[Nathan Spriggs] With not much to add on the conversation as he saw the merits and disadvantages of both sides, Nathan shifts back on his seat slightly before nodding slightly to no one but himself. A moment later, he spoke, an issue he'd never seen discussed. Probably no one liked even considering. "So, when we look at it, as you mentioned decoys... A matter remains again, we've always acted on the basis that whatever they throw at us, we can repel. Whatever happens, we win. But what happens when we don't? I distinctly remember hearing about Nephandi that made it into the Chantry basement during the summer..."

Yes, call him the downer-guy, but he was possibly the least attached and emotional about the big, creepy living Node down in the basement short of a passing interest in it's nature. The kind that made him actually want to commit the mistake of doing more than just draining Quintessence from it, like God forbid, talking to it. "We need to discuss countermeasures, whatever we decide. Or rather, last stand measures. What happens if we're ever pushed against a wall? We sunk a Node trying to protect it from itself and the Technocracy, who knows what Catherine is capable of and what they can do to her... What measures can be taken when worst case scenarios happen? ...Do we leave measures to sink the Node?"

[Solomon Ward] "In rebuttle, Ms. Quincannon, what sort of secret sanctuary and safe haven are we running here if every one and their cat are allowed in, with no screening, no background check, no vetting, no scans, the list goes on? Yes, I disgaree with how Ms. McGowen operates most of the time. That said if every Tom, Dick, and Harry walks into the place, where is the security? How will one garauntee we will have a Node when some interprising rouge walks in and over drains it? How will we keep a library, or worse yet ensure there ar no insidious traps in it, if every one in Chicago is allowed acess to these things willy nilly before they met, understood, and trusted?"

Two sides to every coin, and Molly's political views aside, the man finds it difficult not aurgue on behalf of security of the Chantry. It's more or less his job, elected or self imposed. A Guardian Order Knight and a veteran of an Ascension War that most of the mages in the city have only heard of, or seen the tail end of, a few indivudal souls not withstanding.

"Dr. Atlas, would you let just any one on your ship? Never mind the restricted areas, or sensative areas, your your labs or workshops or poroject rooms. But just anyone that showed up out of the blue, because an acqueintence said, perhaps via phone or text message, that they were new but 'seemed legit' ? Would you, Molly? I'm sorry for the plight of Ms. James, but this Chantry has not yet been firmly established as a teaching institution. It was your choice to take them in as such. You could have also, I don't know, brought it to other peoples attention. Regardless, the current or future intent of the Chantry notwithstanding, I still personally feel security should be paramount."

He's calm about. Voice level, and not really put off by Molly's snarl at his choice of worse.
"Bear in mind I didn't specifically call any one a reatrded monkey, Ms. Quincannon. I was speaking of a general potential of the character of strangers I don't know. Strangers like a man I only know as Alex, who jumped into a certain Hermetics bandwagon and inhereted her opinion faster than mayflies die. I understand that, by my very nature and character, I am not what most people consider to be a 'good person'. That's the general consesus and I accept that... in return I don't see a reaso nto swing this buildings doors wide open to people who may or may not be the same and for much more valid reasons than differences of personality. "

Then to Nathan's words, "I don't think so. We don't sink Catherine. The other node was abberent. Unstable, and linked to a Gateway that drew in monsters from myth and legend. Security measures should be handled, but I'd advise against trying to sink Catherine. She may have unpleasnt surprises for people that try that...not to mention trust issues where she aware... and she is self aware."

[Israel Cohen] Israel winces when Molly goes off about Ashley. For whatever reason, it hurts her slightly to hear it.
She nods to much of the rest, soaking it in.
She cants her head slightly, blinking -- following what Nathan has to add, but a little jerked by the sudden shift in topic focus.
And winces once more when Solomon speaks of how most people don't see him as a 'good person' -- it hurts far more than hearing Ashley slighted.

And she responds quietly: "We all have people who have passed judgements upon us. We've passed judgements ourselves: I'm sure none of us are blameless of that, though many of us try to avoid it. Solomon, the 'loose cannon', the 'zealot'." Pain [Sorrow] is more evident here than any trace of anger, though frustration at least also exists. "Nathan has been called a coward. Solomon and Nathan are both called 'trigger happy'. Atlas' ability to lead is questioned because of how he speaks - I've done it myself," turning her face in Atlas direction there is apology there and honesty. "Molly is dubbed by some as unable to keep from prying into others business or keeping their secrets. And I'm accused of, ah, what is Tom's phrase?" a slight smile there, for all that the subject is painful, "'Guilt-by-Compassion.' Naivete. Upholding the 'old guard' for its own sake."

Licking her lips while she pauses and gathers herself: These days emotions are ever more prone to get the better of her, but she fights it. "We are all of us - all of us marked, misunderstood and prejudiced in some way, shape or form, by any number of parties. We're human: All of us and, yes, those who we think are misguided, too. I do think we should work to change opinions about the Chantry. God willing it will also lead to a better understanding between everyone - ourselves and others....
...I also believe we need to accept that there will be some who refuse to try it out or see anything in a newer, clearer light, no matter our attempts."

Rubbing her hands over her thighs, she grimaces slightly... not resuming eating her food. "Molly, you definitely do have a knack with lots of the people in the city. If you believe a 'Sanctuary' or anything of the sort would be a good idea then I, for one, will trust your judgement," a smile. A tired smile, but a sincere one.

"I also agree with Solomon and Nathan: People may not like it but security is important. I think plans for how to deal with a Chantry or Node breech should certainly be worked out, especially if we do go ahead with an entirely new location. Molly does bring up a good point so far as vetting prospective welcome to the Chantry are concerned: Having only one person in charge can make it difficult for said prospective to be met and, well, checked out. But without some kind of organization on that front, then it may get confusing as to who has been checked out, given access, etcetera, etcetera. Ashley is gone: She's left the city entirely. She said she plans to come back but has no idea when and plans do change. So what do we do now? Select a new Deacon? Do away with it complete? Have two people in charge of meeting new Mages? Ideas?"

[Molly Quincannon] Molly sighs. "See, this? This is why people have a hard time approaching those they see as Chantry people about anything. If you'd listened to a word I said, I suggested letting more than one full Chantry member make that call, not abolish the practice of checking people out before we show them this place. I do understand security; please remember that I am not stupid. Also try to remember that I flagged up two potential security issues in people that had already been allowed in - one of them a full member of the Chantry and with full access to the node. I'm just saying that if you want the Chantry to be anything other than ... than Fort Catherine, then you're going to have to at least make sure that there are enough people to properly check out new arrivals in ... well, in a timely fashion. So people don't get lost."

Then there's a tut. "And you don't see any reason for a secondary place. You're tarring people you haven't even encountered with a brush reserved for one Akashic - and his full name is Alexander Liang, if you want to get technical about it. Anyway, if your attitude is really 'let's not offer sanctuary to people who piss me off', then clearly there does need to be a sanctuary where people who annoy you can at least come in out of the figurative cold. That way you don't have to deal with them, they don't necessarily get access to the node until they've proven trustworthy and they get not only shelter if they need it, but maybe they also get a wider viewpoint than just one Hermetic. Or Chorister. Or whoever."

Israel has asked a question, and it is a good one. "Well ... look. Right now, we're the only five full Chantry members in the city, as you pointed out. That may have to change as we decide what exactly constitutes a full Chantry member - will it still be 'you have full access if you're in a cabal'? Will it be on a probationary basis after a certain time to prove that they're actually trustworthy and we can figure out if there's anything hinky that might be a security issue in their pasts? Because just being in a cabal proves nothing except that someone can keep a secret. Anyway, point is that right now there's five of us. Two cabals, and some of us are more ... social than others. Between us, we can cover the bases and we keep in touch often enough, one way or another, that we can probably keep track easier. So why don't we consider, in the interim, that full Chantry members will have the responsibility of vetting new arrivals? It gives less an opportunity for any one person to develop - or indulge, if they already have one - a 'l'etat, c'est moi' mentality."

[Atlas Mason] Atlas is directly asked a question, a question about something that was near and dear to his heart, his ship, and some might say, his life. He thinks on the matter for a few long moments and he has answers the man looking at him directly.

"I allow bioforms aboard the material structure of the ship identified as the Lafette based upon several primary and secondary protocol's and internalized checks and cues Solomon. These primary checks can be finalized within a matter of time factors, or dependent on external factors or inhibited checks, several time unit's." He says with a shrug, not lying here.

"This particular scenario relies on the internalized and structured self appointment and ascertaion of the facts by the individualized personage...something not currently allotted as standard procedure here in this locality, something that by my personage is considered remiss. However in addendum I believe utilizing the proposed 'sanctuary' as an observational unit by which to judge and gauge individuals for further access to conglomerative nexus resources could be of significant merit in tandum with our own access enablers."

[Israel Cohen] [[WP roll, +2 Diff]]
Dice Rolled:[ 9 d10 ] 2, 3, 5, 5, 5, 5, 6, 7, 10 (Success x 1 at target 8)

[Israel Cohen] The good thing is that she keeps herself from speaking out of knee-jerk reflex somewhere in the midst of what Molly has to say, though it is somewhat more difficult than normal. That said, she does rise and, softly, "I'm feeling a little ill. I'll be back." And truthfully she does look rather more pale again. So excusing herself she makes her way around from her side of the table, guide cane shifting carefully, and heads out of the kitchen, down the hall, presumably to the rest room.

[Nathan Spriggs] Now it's Nathan's turn to sigh. With a finger rubbing his temple, his gaze shifts one by one over each of them, "We seem to be falling to the usual trap: We're going in circles, picking up more misunderstandings as we go along. Now, I've been particularly quiet on the matters myself because I understand both advantages fully and wanted to consider the matter carefully. Still, security is of utmost importance... as is having an actual member base to protect in the first place. Much as I'd love to have a fountain of holy energy or whatever you wanna call it to myself, it seems like a horrible idea if anything's to get done or if we even want to be able to hold on to the place."

With that extended introduction to what he means, call it an anti-misunderstanding measure, he leans back and takes a deep breath. That and Israel's actions, which earn him a drawn out glance but otherwise no words. "So, how about a buddy system? We don't want to slow down 'inspections' but we also can't be careful. Every current, trusted and proven member of the Chantry," and there's a slight dip into sarcasm here," plentiful as they are, make a roster. Then we handle this like a good ol' honor association or graduate studies application if you will. The people on the list have the ability to meet new members, nominate 'em for, y'know, 'knowing the hidden treehouse spot'. Need another person on said list and at least a call to let others in, email tree for the sake of speediness, to forewarn it. Wham-bam, get that second whoever it is to show and check the person, get a handle on him and we're good to go. Might not be the deepest examination possible but it provides a measure of flexibility and speediness."

[Nathan Spriggs] Addendum: "Oh, and limit that 'other person' to 'not a Cabalmate' perhaps, save cases of emergency... You know, provide that tiny bit more scrutiny behind the second opinion."