Relaying Information Through A Friend

02/27/12 – Franco Spellman

Franco was perplexed as to who would have wanted to meet with him. It was right after the start of term and Franco had plans. He planned on meeting his brothers that night at Shadow Lounge. This was the first night that both Marco and Leo had off. Neo was a Cooler at Shadow Lounge but had said that Gabriel would cover. It had been set and then Franco had gotten a message that if he was interested in a break in the story he was working on then be at the Leaky Cauldron at 4 PM. The note had hinted that if he brought anybody except Seth Wright, he lose more than a story.

He was here so where was the informant. Franco was wondering which of his stories was going to break with this meet. Unlike most wizards, Franco kept his wand in a special pocket near his left hand. To many in his family had died because they never pulled their wands. His wand was always touching his hand and so all he needed to do was aim and spell cast. If this was a wild goose chase, then the man or woman who sent the note was in for a shock. Franco would only stay until 4:30, if a no show then he was out of there.

Though if the person did show then they only had about an hour to chat before his brothers got the owl that he had Brennan deliver. Either way, the person was not going to get the upper hand and Franco liked it that way. He sat at a table by the back door and wondered again if it might be the PI that he used from time to time. If it was why he had not signed the note, unless... Franco smiled and realized that his brothers and he might have more to discuss tonight than was planned, especially if The Caretaker was back in action. Looking at his watch, he noticed that it was 15 to 4PM. If was right about the who then the man was somewhere because this man always was at least 30 mins early. The question was where and why Seth, who was waiting outside the back door.

(OCC: Had permission from my husband to say what was said about Leo and Neo. Marco, Seth and Brennan are a few of my many characters. Also have the permission of Richard Greene to say what was said about him. Preplanned Thread.)

02/29/12 (Leap year) – Richard Greene

Richard stood in the shop across from the Leaky Caldron. Usually he would be sitting in the bar, waiting for the person he had requested to meet, but trust had just about gone out the window, after his teaching job at the school. He had felt too many people were not who they seemed to be and he had not had the time yet to gather the information he needed on them all..

He saw Franco enter the Leaky Caldron, but did not see Seth. It was interesting Franco was not wearing any type of disguise. Seth would not have missed a chance for this meeting, he would have been too curious. This fact meant, Seth was somewhere, most likely in the back ally. He would have to wait for him to come in to the group, when he felt safe.



Deciding it was time to meet he walked across the street. Entering the establishment he walked up to the bar and ordered a weak mixed drink. After receiving the drink and paying for it, he casually looked around. Spying Franco sitting at a table near the back, he pretended he had spotted an old friend and casually walked to the table asking, “Can I sit, or were you waiting for someone?” There was a slight one-sided smile on Richard’s face.

02/29/12 (leap year) – Franco Spellman

Entering the establishment he walked up to the bar and ordered a weak mixed drink.

Franco spotted his friend no sooner had he walked in. Feeling relief, he smiled and debated on whether to signal Seth. The reporter decided not yet as he continued to watch.

Spying Franco sitting at a table near the back, he pretended he had spotted an old friend and casually walked to the table asking, “Can I sit, or were you waiting for someone?”

Franco realized that something had put his friend back in action. When asked, Franco said, "I was waiting, though it looks like the person is a no show. You can join me, though if the person doesn't show by 5 then I will have to go as I am meeting my brothers." He hoped the man remembered how he was. If he did then this meeting would be done by 5 or moved to the Shadow Lounge. It also explain why he was not in disguise as his brother Marco hated them.

There was a slight one-sided smile on Richard’s face.

He needed to know why Seth so he said quietly, "The person asked for me to bring somebody but the man was leery without knowing why." That should tell his friend there better be a good reason and he better give it.

02/29/12 – Richard



Richard could tell Franco realized he wanted this to look like and accidental meeting. He sat with his back to the front door, which would also give his friend the idea he trusted him to watch the situation. Putting his drink down in front of him, he looked at Franco for a moment, then reached into his pocket and pulled out the three pieces of paper he had hidden deep in the secret recesses of one of the pockets. One was the note Anthony had dropped, another was the note Richard had levitated from Anthony’s pocket and the third was a miniaturized copy of the writing the pen had made in the cubby hole in his office when Richard and Anthony had met. Richard knew he could trust Franco not to leak anything which would compromise other wizards and witches, and he was hoping the information would help Seth.



“We have worked together before, Franco, but I have not worked with Seth much. It will be up to you on what Seth gets of this information. I personally think he should read all of it, but since I started teaching at the school. I am becoming very distrustful of those I trusted implicitly before. You and your brothers are still on my trust list, so I came to you.” Richard said as he finished his drink. Richard had thought at first to take the information directly to Marco, one of Franco’s brothers, but he was not sure who would see him in close talk with his friend and past-employer, and at the moment Richard did not want that connection made.

Richard signaled for another beverage, giving Franco a chance to take in the information and do what he thought was best. Richard was set with answers to as many questions as he could think of, and now was the time to give the information to who it could use best

02/29/12 – Franco

Putting his drink down in front of him, he looked at Franco for a moment, then reached into his pocket and pulled out the three pieces of paper he had hidden deep in the secret recesses of one of the pockets. One was the note Anthony had dropped, another was the note Richard had levitated from Anthony’s pocket and the third was a miniaturized copy of the writing the pen had made in the cubby hole in his office when Richard and Anthony had met. Richard knew he could trust Franco not to leak anything which would compromise other wizards and witches, and he was hoping the information would help Seth.

Franco watched his friend and knew that something had gotten the PI back. He knew that Sasha had asked for Rich as she had trusted him. What Franco didn't understand was why Sasha had no trust in Anthony. His nephew Seth had vouched for Anthony and yet neither the Medjai nor Sasha trusted him. It was one of the things he planned on asking tonight from his brothers and hoped one of them had the answer.

Keeping an eye on things while his friend removed three papers. Franco was unsure of what to make of the slips.

“We have worked together before, Franco, but I have not worked with Seth much. It will be up to you on what Seth gets of this information. I personally think he should read all of it, but since I started teaching at the school. I am becoming very distrustful of those I trusted implicitly before. You and your brothers are still on my trust list, so I came to you.” Richard said as he finished his drink.

Franco nodded as he said, "Seth is family, Rich. I hide nothing from him." Franco was more interested in what Rich had not said. He would have normally just handed to Marco to deliver. Since he hadn't that meant that he was worried about somebody making a connection.

Jokingly he said, "What Rich, you losing your touch? It usually takes you a while before you get on somebody's radar." Franco knew that his friend would understand. Rich was nicknamed The Caretaker for a reason. The man always took care of problems. Franco had never seen him spooked and that worried the investigative reporter. He knew what he had to do as they needed privacy, especially once Seth sat down.

Richard signaled for another beverage, giving Franco a chance to take in the information and do what he thought was best. Richard was set with answers to as many questions as he could think of, and now was the time to give the information to who it could use best

Shaking his head at his friend as he did three things. First, Franco said, "Remember Rich what I use to do when Marco got nosy?" That was all the warning he could give about the spell that would make them as if they were not there. He did the spell with his left as his right knocked thrice on the back door. The full Barrier was not in place until Seth walked in though the back door and sat in the nearest chair.

Franco smiled as he said, "Richard Greene meet my nephew Seth Wright."

Seth just smiled and said, "What's up?"

(OCC: Seth Wright is one of my characters, so I included him here.)

02/29/12 – Richard



That was enough for Richard, if this man trusted Seth to know what to do, then he would also. Richard nodded, and commented, “I will leave it up to you, my friend.”



The comment made Richard genuinely smile. “I think I am getting old, Franco. Too many years on the lecture circuit have made my mind lose some of its edge has become dull. I have not kept up with the Dark world as much as I should have in the last couple of years. The people involved in whatever I have discovered are well organized, and I know it is not just one hand pulling the strings. The notes will explain of the problems and the transcript will let you in on another wrinkle I have discovered. I am full of questions and not many answers. At the moment, I am hoping if you ask questions I can figure out what is important.”



Richard knew what was coming. Franco used to enjoy keeping his oldest brother out of his business. Marco would have stopped some of their adventures. Richard smiled and rubbed the back of his neck, because he could remember a few of the adventures he wished Marco had stopped. Watching the spell being made Richard saw Franco knock on the back door. It was no surprise to him when a man walked through that door and sat down in one of the empty seats.



Seth appeared to Richard to have the years of experience he would need, but years of experience did not mean brain power. “Nice to meet you Seth. Hope you can add some light on a small adventure I have started.” Richard waited to see how the man worked.

02/29/12 – Franco and Seth in same post
Richard nodded, and commented, “I will leave it up to you, my friend.”

Franco smiled as he realized that on his word alone, Seth name had been added to the list of people Rich could trust. He realized that one more name needed to be added to that list or a couple. He said quietly, "Brennan Dawson, Nathalie and Gabriel Lupin. Bren is at the school and though he is only a Hit Wizard, he's a real good one. Nat works at Sara's Tea Shop and her husband well he works Shadow Lounge as a Bouncer." He would tell him about Darik later as he had never met the little man. Though he had only went to Sara's twice.

The comment made Richard genuinely smile. “I think I am getting old, Franco. Too many years on the lecture circuit have made my mind lose some of its edge has become dull. I have not kept up with the Dark world as much as I should have in the last couple of years. The people involved in whatever I have discovered are well organized, and I know it is not just one hand pulling the strings. The notes will explain of the problems and the transcript will let you in on another wrinkle I have discovered. I am full of questions and not many answers. At the moment, I am hoping if you ask questions I can figure out what is important.”

Franco grinned as he said, "I think not, my friend. You didn't have time to check things when you got Sasha's message, am I right? That school has fewer leaks than the Ministry, though I am wondering why Sasha and the Medjai don't seem to trust Anthony. It has me worried as Seth has place a special protection job on him. He was placed at Hogwarts to guard somebody very special." He could not give any more of the protection that his nephew had on Tia Andreas away. Not without Seth okaying it anyways. He somewhat understood the Medjai, as if anything happened to the princess, it would be Tarik that had to answer for it. It was Sasha that worried him as he was afraid the woman had stop trusting. Franco didn't know what would happen if that was the case.

“Nice to meet you Seth. Hope you can add some light on a small adventure I have started.” Richard waited to see how the man worked.

Seth saw the owl with his name on it. Picking it up and opening it, Seth frowned as he said to Franco, "We have a problem, Franco."

Franco read the letter and sighed as now he partly understood Sasha's concern.

Godfather,

If this report is in your hands then I know I can trust the man that gave it to you. I am sorry but as my blackouts are happening more often, I can't trust that the info is being received. I ask that you double check any info I give. The man will explain as I can already feel a spell coming and need to hide this before I blackout. Though I will ask that my father be watched as you are not the only one with a target anymore. Godfather, she seems to be okay but somebody is also interested in Rosa.

Anthony
P.S. Please let me stay on the case as I want this guy as much as you do.

Franco gave Rich a look and said, "Okay, spill. If Anthony is switching again we need to know. As for those other papers, keep them with you because if anybody at the MoM finds out, he will be yanked from active duty quick. So spill what you know, Rich!"

(OCC: Preplanned thread)

02/29/12 – Richard



Making a mental note of the new names, Richard started to see the network of help broadening. He realized he had defiantly stepped into something bigger than helping someone with a medical problem. “You can add one more name to that list, Franco. There is a little character named Darik, who is Sara Puddifoot’s trusted House Elf. He has also been a great help to me and I know he can be trusted, at least as long as you do not try and harm anyone in the group which calls itself the Allies, or anyone else he cares about. Introduce yourself next time you are there. He no ordinary House Elf.”



“Sasha, did ask that I come right away. I cancelled a couple of lectures I was supposed to give and headed straight for the school. It may have been a mistake not to do the usual prep work, but Sasha sounded worried in her Owl. I know about guarding Rosa and I would be willing to bet the one of the others is a girl named Tia. She seems to be at the crux of the Allies Group and everyone seems to worry about how she is doing. You can confirm my thought later.”



Richard sat back in his seat and looked at the two men. Franco he trusted with his life, after all they had been through in the past. Franco vouched for Seth, so he could actually get some things off his chest. One of the first things which struck Richard was these two men knew Anthony had multiple personalities. “Anthony had forbidden me to go into his work closet, so that was one of the places I needed to check out.” Richard started with a smile on his face. “Darik was the actual one in the workroom finding what he could about Anthony. I waited outside to run interference for the little Elf’s search. While I waited Anthony showed up and attempted to give me a hard time about being there. I demonstrated to him what a hard time actually consisted of, without doing too much bodily injury. Before I left the situation, Anthony changed. He became harder in the face and body makeup. His face almost became older and ridged.”

“It was not until later when Darik, gave me some copies of some paperwork he had found, I discovered a doctor’s note, talking about symptoms and medications Anthony was to take. I checked with St. Mango’s library and found what the symptoms could point to and what the medication was normally used to treat. The only thing which was included on all the lists was Multiply Personality Disorder. As you can see, there is one personality called Anthony, which is an upstanding Auror, and another personality which calls itself the Chameleon, which in my opinion is very dangerous and likes being in control. There may be more but I do not know.”

“Personally Gentlemen I do not think your Auror friend is taking his medicine. Maybe he just needs to be rechecked.” Richard took a sip of his drink and waited to see what his information meant to Franco and Seth.

02/29/12 – Franco
“You can add one more name to that list, Franco. There is a little character named Darik, who is Sara Puddifoot’s trusted House Elf. He has also been a great help to me and I know he can be trusted, at least as long as you do not try and harm anyone in the group which calls itself the Allies, or anyone else he cares about. Introduce yourself next time you are there. He no ordinary House Elf.”

Franco smiled as he said, "Yeah, Darik is a character though I have never had the pleasure to meet him."

“Sasha, did ask that I come right away. I cancelled a couple of lectures I was supposed to give and headed straight for the school. It may have been a mistake not to do the usual prep work, but Sasha sounded worried in her Owl. I know about guarding Rosa and I would be willing to bet the one of the others is a girl named Tia. She seems to be at the crux of the Allies Group and everyone seems to worry about how she is doing. You can confirm my thought later.”

Franco nodded then said, "Tia is Tamika's daughter." He knew he didn't need to say any more as he knew the story of how James had been murdered and why. The only thing none of them knew was who, though Seth thought he had an idea.

“Anthony had forbidden me to go into his work closet, so that was one of the places I needed to check out.” Richard started with a smile on his face.

Franco smirked as he knew that if anyone tells Rich to stay out of somewhere, then that is the first place he looks. Rich had been like that for as long as Franco knew him.

“Darik was the actual one in the workroom finding what he could about Anthony. I waited outside to run interference for the little Elf’s search. While I waited Anthony showed up and attempted to give me a hard time about being there. I demonstrated to him what a hard time actually consisted of, without doing too much bodily injury. Before I left the situation, Anthony changed. He became harder in the face and body makeup. His face almost became older and ridged.”

Again Franco gave a unique smile as he said, "I gather he with airborne and most likely without his wand."

“It was not until later when Darik, gave me some copies of some paperwork he had found, I discovered a doctor’s note, talking about symptoms and medications Anthony was to take. I checked with St. Mango’s library and found what the symptoms could point to and what the medication was normally used to treat. The only thing which was included on all the lists was Multiply Personality Disorder. As you can see, there is one personality called Anthony, which is an upstanding Auror, and another personality which calls itself the Chameleon, which in my opinion is very dangerous and likes being in control. There may be more but I do not know.”

Both Franco and Seth were shocked as the name was not known to them. Franco said with real concern in his voice, "You sure Rich that the name was Chameleon and not Tony?" Franco knew that if Chameleon was indeed the one Greene met then that spelled problems. It would mean that Anthony now had three different personalities and this new one might mean big trouble. Though it would explain a lot about people's trust issues with him as Tony was harmless except to the ladies.

“Personally Gentlemen I do not think your Auror friend is taking his medicine. Maybe he just needs to be rechecked.” Richard took a sip of his drink and waited to see what his information meant to Franco and Seth.

Franco shook his head as he said, " Anthony would never willing go off his meds as he is the one that requested them. It is more and likely that this Chameleon side is involved in the disappearance of his medicine. Tell me about him as it seems Anthony don't even trust that side. As for Anthony getting recheck, he can't as the friend he was seeing was found with his throat slashed a week ago."

02/29/12 – Richard



It had not been hard to figure out Tia fitted into problems at the school. Everyone was so protective of her. She was always accompanied by at least one of the Allies. It had been awhile since Richard had heart Tamika’s name.



Richard matched Franco smile for smile. “I didn’t keep him up there for long. In fact it was when I almost let him down to the floor and then not so casually hoisted him up again, the change took place. Apparently it is anger or something along those lines which causes the change. If Anthony can find some way to stay calm he may have a chance at being in control for longer periods of time. Remember when we were taught back in Care of Magical Creatures class about the Runespoor snake, the one which had three heads, one for making plans, one for dreaming about possibilities and one as a critic which always spoiled everything.” Richard could see in Franco and Seth’s eyes, they were having trouble seeing where he was going. “Now, hear me out. The snake never got anywhere because none of the heads could agree. The only chance they had was for the planner and the dreamer to get together and bite off the head of the critic. Somehow the Chameleon needs to meet a like end. I have no medical training other than the questions I have asked so far. Anyone know anyone with a Medical background we can ask?”



Richard thought back to that day in the dungeon, “No Tony was never mentioned in the dungeon, and in the few talks I have been able to have with Anthony, the name Tony has not come up. “ Making the obvious connection Richard continued, “So there are at least three personalities at the moment. One of the doctor’s I talked with said, one of the personalities would definitely be in control of any others.” Richard looked from Franco to Seth, “So where do we go from here?”



“How best to describe Chameleon?” Richard thought to himself. Out load he explained the best he could for the sketchy details he had been able to gather. “The Chameleon is very sure of himself. I think he would have no hesitation to kill someone if he thought it would get him closer to whatever he wants. His stance is more ridged, like he is waiting to fight at any moment. His face becomes taunt. Some of the characteristics are where Anthony is right-handed, the Chameleon is left-handed; Anthony is a total tea drinker, especially Herbal Teas, and the chameleon drinks hard liquor, most likely Whiskey and possibly Vodka are his favorites.” Richard stopped to think, “Oh there is one very interesting bit of information, Anthony speaks fluent Chinese, in several different dialects, and the Chameleon does not know one word of it.” Richard could not think of anything else at the moment.

Richard sat forward and put his arms on the table, “Ok, so we need to see Anthony starts taking his medicine. I may be able to get Darik to help with that one. Sara Puddifoot says he is excellent at taking care of peoples health needs.” Richard had taken the comment from Sara at face value, but he knew he never wanted to have the HouseElf mad at him and taking care of his health needs. Richard drained his glass and waited.

03/01/12 – Franco

Richard matched Franco smile for smile. “I didn’t keep him up there for long. In fact it was when I almost let him down to the floor and then not so casually hoisted him up again, the change took place. Apparently it is anger or something along those lines which causes the change. If Anthony can find some way to stay calm he may have a chance at being in control for longer periods of time. Remember when we were taught back in Care of Magical Creatures class about the Runespoor snake, the one which had three heads, one for making plans, one for dreaming about possibilities and one as a critic which always spoiled everything.”

Franco nodded as he realized that his friend still handled problems as he always did. Though he could not understand where the Runespoor snake fit.

Richard could see in Franco and Seth’s eyes, they were having trouble seeing where he was going. “Now, hear me out. The snake never got anywhere because none of the heads could agree. The only chance they had was for the planner and the dreamer to get together and bite off the head of the critic. Somehow the Chameleon needs to meet a like end. I have no medical training other than the questions I have asked so far. Anyone know anyone with a Medical background we can ask?”

"Let me see if I understand you this Chameleon that you speak is like a critic?", Franco said still not fully understand.

Looking over to Seth, he saw the man's face light up as Seth said, "No Franco, I think he means that like the critic head of that snake, this Chameleon is keeping Anthony from doing what is needed. Which means that like that head, the Chameleon needs to be dealt with."

Richard thought back to that day in the dungeon, “No Tony was never mentioned in the dungeon, and in the few talks I have been able to have with Anthony, the name Tony has not come up."

Franco explained, "Marco was the first to realize what Anthony was dealing with. In school, every so often he would refer to himself as Tony. Marco started watching and realized that at those times, Anthony would seem to flirt with the girls. He also seemed to be able to use either hand. The Tony side is very much into anything healthy. The only bad thing was Anthony never remember any of it when he became his true self again and so broke a lot of girls hearts. We had gotten to the point that we would tell Anthony what his Tony side would do so that Anthony started acting as if he knew. That side is harmless."


Out load he explained the best he could for the sketchy details he had been able to gather. “The Chameleon is very sure of himself. I think he would have no hesitation to kill someone if he thought it would get him closer to whatever he wants. His stance is more ridged, like he is waiting to fight at any moment. His face becomes taunt. Some of the characteristics are where Anthony is right-handed, the Chameleon is left-handed; Anthony is a total tea drinker, especially Herbal Teas, and the chameleon drinks hard liquor, most likely Whiskey and possibly Vodka are his favorites.”

Franco cringed as he said, "Sounds like trouble with a capital all letters. No wonder the Tony side is not coming out. Both Anthony and Tony hate liquor. It seems that somehow somebody has been able to split Anthony again and this time they have created a pure killer or worst. No wonder Anthony is scared about his reports. He probably doesn't know who has this personality's loyalty. Am I right, Rich or does Anthony know and not at all happy about it?"

Richard stopped to think, “Oh there is one very interesting bit of information, Anthony speaks fluent Chinese, in several different dialects, and the Chameleon does not know one word of it.” Richard could not think of anything else at the moment.

Franco nodded as any differences between the personalities would help.

Richard sat forward and put his arms on the table, “Ok, so we need to see Anthony starts taking his medicine. I may be able to get Darik to help with that one. Sara Puddifoot says he is excellent at taking care of peoples health needs.”

Franco again nodded, even if it meant using trickery to get the meds in Anthony.

03/01/12 – Richard



It was Richards turn to nod. Seth was quick and that gave Richard confidence in his new acquaintance. “One doctor said it was possible to break away one or more of the other personalities. The only problem would be if the personality you broke away had habits the one you kept needed. For example the Chameleon may be a cold blooded killer, but he also may be the one who in some way allows, Anthony to do his job and kill when necessary for that job. The doctor said it would be wiser to have the personality you wanted to be in charge, know about the other personalities and be stronger than they are. From that point on the doctor was talking about things I have not been able to do research on yet.”



“I have not encountered Tony yet, at least not that I know of…maybe I can use that part of Anthony to distract the Chameleon long enough to get Anthony back in control. Anthony wants control, and I am hoping his Auror training will give him the strength to keep fighting.” Almost to himself Richard said, “I sure wish I could figure out what hold the Chameleon has over Anthony”



“I recognize a little about the names Anthony had mentioned. One was the Shadow, although he did not seem to know the persons real name. Sounds like a really bad character though.” Richard tried to remember the family name he had been given, “There is a family called Onaris, which I have heard of. Some type of Wizard Mafia family, who the Shadow is connected too. These people are holding something over Anthony’s head and he is really scared they will carry out their threat. This makes him not fight the take over’s from the Chameleon using his full abilities.”

“Gentlemen, he does want out and he wants his life back. I made him a promise I would try and help and I always keep my promises. So tell me what you need me to do…” Richard felt a little better because now he was not alone.

03/01/12 – Franco

“One doctor said it was possible to break away one or more of the other personalities. The only problem would be if the personality you broke away had habits the one you kept needed. For example the Chameleon may be a cold blooded killer, but he also may be the one who in some way allows, Anthony to do his job and kill when necessary for that job. The doctor said it would be wiser to have the personality you wanted to be in charge, know about the other personalities and be stronger than they are. From that point on the doctor was talking about things I have not been able to do research on yet.”

Franco thought on what his friend said and on his own research on the subject. Then smiling he said, "No with what Anthony must deal with, he needs the skills this Chameleon has. What needs to happen is the Anthony side needs to become the key personality like he did with the Tony side. Which means we need to figure this Chameleon out. Find out what not only what brings him out but more important what keeps him out. Then we need to figure out why he chooses to lock Anthony away. Reason why is because for some reason, Chameleon must feel Anthony won't let him out when needed. You see Rich, some with MPD know exactly what each personality does. Each know their role and it makes the switches easy as they don't have to struggle for the Key Personality spot. In those cases, that position belongs to the true personality. It is called melding. For some reason, there are two very strong personalities fighting for control. We need to know why?"

“I have not encountered Tony yet, at least not that I know of…maybe I can use that part of Anthony to distract the Chameleon long enough to get Anthony back in control. Anthony wants control, and I am hoping his Auror training will give him the strength to keep fighting.”

Seth smiled as he said, "You want Anthony to keep fighting, that is easy. Remind him about why he asked for this assignment. Why he went though hell to make his break with the Ministry believable. All you need is remind him of what his target did to Marcus and what he swore he would do to see that Marcus' sister would never have to share that fate."

Almost to himself Richard said, “I sure wish I could figure out what hold the Chameleon has over Anthony”

Franco smiled as he said, "Rich, if you are wondering what the hold is find out. Do what you do best."

“I recognize a little about the names Anthony had mentioned. One was the Shadow, although he did not seem to know the persons real name. Sounds like a really bad character though.”

Seth heard the name and froze as he became lost in the past. Anthony had found the last of the Valentines. He had been right as to who had killed his godson Marcus and a lot of other people as well.

Richard tried to remember the family name he had been given, “There is a family called Onaris, which I have heard of. Some type of Wizard Mafia family, who the Shadow is connected too. These people are holding something over Anthony’s head and he is really scared they will carry out their threat. This makes him not fight the take over’s from the Chameleon using his full abilities.”

Franco realized on that Richard had not connected all of the dots. He had heard the last name from Gabriel. Giving a sly grin as he said, "That name has somebody very interested in finding the head of the family. Gabriel had asked that I keep my eyes open for a Khalid Onaris as Sasha's betrothed would love to find him. I suggest you talk with Tarik as to why. Though I will say this when Tarik catches him, one of them will no longer have their head."

“Gentlemen, he does want out and he wants his life back. I made him a promise I would try and help and I always keep my promises. So tell me what you need me to do…” Richard felt a little better because now he was not alone.

Franco smiled, "Why do you think Chameleon has a hold over Anthony?"

03/01/12 – Richard



“Bringing him out is anger at someone taking advantage of any situation.” Richard started with the little information he already had. Adding, he said, “Keeping him out would be connected to alcohol. Would either of you know if Anthony has any type of allergic reaction to distilled drinks? Is there a reason he is only a tea drinker? Maybe he realizes the alcohol brings out the Chameleon and uses that fact to help keep him at bay.”

“This is just a theory, but what if during Auror training Anthony had a plain problem with his temper, and he was verbally forced to keep it under control. Wouldn’t that fuel the Chameleons worry about not being let out.” Richard was not sure if he was making any sense, but thinking out loud, “If the Chameleon side is being bolstered by someone who is feeding on this fear, and at the same time being convinced this is the way the world need to work to have peace……then the Chameleon would think he was doing the right thing.”Richard stopped, the ideas were starting to go around and flow back on themselves.



“That is a good idea Seth. Can you give me some for-instances to use? Key phrases, words and names would also be good. Franco you know the Tony part. Do you think he would help fight the battle?” Richard was looking for anything he could use in his investigation. He needed a starting point, which could be as far back as when Anthony first realized he had at least one other ‘personality’ locked away in his head.



Richard looked at Franco, “I know and I will start a full force investigation, and not just take this as something I can hopefully help with, without facts. It has been a while since I had my feet wet all the way to my knees. And to continue with that analogy, I hope the water does not get too much deeper.”



“Apparently this dark Shadow, guy, has convinced the Onaris family, that Anthony is ok to let into secret areas. This is strange because usually only family or marriage into a family can get you that deep into the inner-circle. That means either the Shadow and/or Anthony are part of the family.” As the idea hit Richard he wished he still had some drink left. “Do either of you know if Anthony is connected in any way to the ‘family’ in anyway? It would explain a lot.” Richard knew he was probably drawing at straws but anything could lead to something important.

Richard made more mental notes to check with Tarik and Gabriel. It was good over the years he had worked on training his memory. Early in his career he had written things down and once it had come very close to getting him killed. From that point on he took memory classes and had become very proficient and memorizing names, and details and recalling small things. “I gather this Onaris character is not a very nice person.



Richard thought for a second and then pulled the note signed by the Chameleon back out of his pocket. Re-reading it, made him want to cringe. Some of the information he needed was right in front of him. The note read:



“if I am reading this note which was in Anthony’s pocket when the Chameleon was out, then the Chameleon/Anthony/Tony are the nephew of someone with a lot of power, who is threatening Anthony. This does not make any sense though, If Anthony is hurt the Chameleon will be hurt.” Richard shook his head. All of a sudden he banged on the table enough to make the glasses move and then his himself in the forehead with the heal of his hand. “What if Anthony is the nephew in the Onaris family?” Richard sat silent waiting for either of the other two men to tell him he was crazy.

03/01/12 – Franco

“Bringing him out is anger at someone taking advantage of any situation.” Richard started with the little information he already had. Adding, he said, “Keeping him out would be connected to alcohol. Would either of you know if Anthony has any type of allergic reaction to distilled drinks? Is there a reason he is only a tea drinker? Maybe he realizes the alcohol brings out the Chameleon and uses that fact to help keep him at bay.”

Seth had told Franco about Arnold's drinking problem. He nodded as he said, "Not exactly, it more that he dislikes the results."

“This is just a theory, but what if during Auror training Anthony had a plain problem with his temper, and he was verbally forced to keep it under control. Wouldn’t that fuel the Chameleons worry about not being let out.” Richard was not sure if he was making any sense, but thinking out loud, “If the Chameleon side is being bolstered by someone who is feeding on this fear, and at the same time being convinced this is the way the world need to work to have peace……then the Chameleon would think he was doing the right thing.”Richard stopped, the ideas were starting to go around and flow back on themselves.

It was seeming to Franco that the Chameleon part might have been in the works since Anthony was six. That would explain a lot including his dislike of the man that raised him. Very few knew that it had been discovered that Arnold might in fact not be Anthony's father. Franco said, “Possible though I think will might need to figure out if Chameleon went by any other name before he got the code name. Talk to Anthony or even Chameleon as I'm starting to think that Chameleon has been around since he was six."

“That is a good idea Seth. Can you give me some for-instances to use? Key phrases, words and names would also be good. Franco you know the Tony part. Do you think he would help fight the battle?” Richard was looking for anything he could use in his investigation.

Seth smiled at how through this guy was. He thought for a while before saying," These names you can start with; Marcus Andreas, Tia Andreas, Troy Spellman, Tamika Andreas. Then mention murdered as three of the four have been murdered."

Richard looked at Franco, “I know and I will start a full force investigation, and not just take this as something I can hopefully help with, without facts. It has been a while since I had my feet wet all the way to my knees. And to continue with that analogy, I hope the water does not get too much deeper.”

Franco looked at Seth and then grinned while saying, "Good Rich, though you are up to your knees now; you might get up to your neck like the rest of us."

Seth heard the name and froze as he became lost in the past. Anthony had found the last of the Valentines. He had been right as to who had killed his godson Marcus and a lot of other people as well.

Franco watched Seth and realized who the Dark Shadow must be. He tapped Seth and said, " Seth, it is him isn't it? The one that was just a boy in America. David Valentine."

“Apparently this dark Shadow, guy, has convinced the Onaris family, that Anthony is ok to let into secret areas. This is strange because usually only family or marriage into a family can get you that deep into the inner-circle. That means either the Shadow and/or Anthony are part of the family.” As the idea hit Richard he wished he still had some drink left.

Franco smiled as he said, "It is something we need to check."

“Do either of you know if Anthony is connected in any way to the ‘family’ in anyway? It would explain a lot.” Richard knew he was probably drawing at straws but anything could lead to something important.

They shook their heads.

“I gather this Onaris character is not a very nice person.

Franco gave a sly grin as he said, " His name is Khalid Onaris and he is accused of killing his own grandfather as well as several others. You tell me, Rich?"

“if I am reading this note which was in Anthony’s pocket when the Chameleon was out, then the Chameleon/Anthony/Tony are the nephew of someone with a lot of power, who is threatening Anthony. This does not make any sense though, If Anthony is hurt the Chameleon will be hurt.” Richard shook his head.

Franco looked at the note and nodded as he said, "Rich, think about it. If you were this uncle, would you threaten harm to him personally? Remember Anthony asked Seth in his note to keep an eye on Arnold. He also said that Seth isn't the only one targeted anymore. That gives us two things. The first being that Arnold has now got a bulls-eye on his back as well as maybe others. Second, he gave us the uncle, Dark Shadow."

All of a sudden he banged on the table enough to make the glasses move and then his himself in the forehead with the heal of his hand. “What if Anthony is the nephew in the Onaris family?” Richard sat silent waiting for either of the other two men to tell him he was crazy.

Franco smiled as he said, " Now I know the PI in you is back. Ask Anthony."

03/03/12 – Richard



Richard started to think that may be an interesting idea. Having a talk with Anthony and Chameleon possibly at the same sitting brought up some interesting possibilities. He knew he would need help and backup if he tried to pull that off.



“Do you think I could use the name David Valentine to bring out Chameleon?” A theory was building in Richards mind. Possibly start with Anthony, bring out Chameleon and then get Anthony back out before someone, mainly himself died. Richard thought he may as well try for Tony in there somewhere, to see what he knew. “It would be interesting to see what I could learn with all three of them Anthony, Tony and Chameleon at the same table?” Richard thoughtfully rubbed his chin. “Either of you want to come along for the meeting? There would be a good possibility Valentine may show because if he is the controller he would not want to miss helping the Chameleon.”



“Franco, you think Anthony is having an increasingly harder time coming to the head of the group don’t you? Anthony feels he cannot control situations anymore, right? I still do not know much about MPD but could Anthony be getting ready to try something on his own, and telling us to take care of his family and even who to try and pin the results on, Valentine.” Richard slowly shook his head, adding, “this is all getting deeper than I thought, and I think I am second guessing myself. I need someone who understands the situation, psychologically and physically in greater depth than I do. Any ideas?”



Richard was staring to get a bit overloaded, and the excitement of a new fact-finding case was not helping his concentration. “It looks like I am going to be busy for a while. I will still have to keep up my duties at the school. To tell the truth, I am enjoying myself more than I thought I would. I have names of people killed and those still on a hit list, a man who has multiply personality disorder with one of the personalities possibly changing his name along the way, a controller who does not want me to succeed and can probably be pretty nasty, a connection to one of the biggest Wizard Mafia families and some people who will probably be finding out what I do ‘on the side’ for fun.” Smiling he continued, “Yes, gentlemen I think I have filled my plate to the top.” Rubbing his hands together he added, “This should be fun, anything else I need to know, or maybe tell you?”

03/03/12 – Franco

“Do you think I could use the name David Valentine to bring out Chameleon?”

Franco thought about it before saying, "Worth a try, though be careful. This Chameleon seems the type to became dangerous if he thinks you are a threat."

“It would be interesting to see what I could learn with all three of them Anthony, Tony and Chameleon at the same table?”

Franco said calmly, "Rich, Tony is hard to bring out as he has only one thing that brings him out. He also has a unique taste?"

“Either of you want to come along for the meeting? There would be a good possibility Valentine may show because if he is the controller he would not want to miss helping the Chameleon.”

The investigative reporter nodded and then says, "Just remember Rich that this man Valentine has been killing since he was about thirteen. You have somehow gotten on his radar and usually those that do, he buries. My instincts tell me that he is involved in the murder of my nephew Troy Spellman. If he did shoot Troy, then he waited eleven years to do it. We always believed that Troy saw who killed his father James. No matter how much we pushed, Troy would never give us the name. For some reason Troy had become a threat and I think I have a pretty good idea of why. There was a certain person that Dark Shadow wanted kept in the dark about that night. Somebody that Dark Shadow has been terrorizing for a very long time. I think for somehow Valentine found out that Troy was going to spend time with this person. Troy was killed the night before she was going to meet Troy."

“Franco, you think Anthony is having an increasingly harder time coming to the head of the group don’t you? Anthony feels he cannot control situations anymore, right? I still do not know much about MPD but could Anthony be getting ready to try something on his own, and telling us to take care of his family and even who to try and pin the results on, Valentine.”

Franco answered worried, "Something has changed. Something that has Anthony believing that he might not be able to keep his promise to Marcus. The problem with that is that it seems that the girl is no longer being a target. Though I will admit for some reason that worries me and Seth more than if she was still receiving the threats."

Richard slowly shook his head, adding, “this is all getting deeper than I thought, and I think I am second guessing myself. I need someone who understands the situation, psychologically and physically in greater depth than I do. Any ideas?”

Franco again nodded as he said, "I know one that I wish was still alive as this would be right up his alley."

“It looks like I am going to be busy for a while. I will still have to keep up my duties at the school. To tell the truth, I am enjoying myself more than I thought I would. I have names of people killed and those still on a hit list, a man who has multiply personality disorder with one of the personalities possibly changing his name along the way, a controller who does not want me to succeed and can probably be pretty nasty, a connection to one of the biggest Wizard Mafia families and some people who will probably be finding out what I do ‘on the side’ for fun.”

"My only advice is be careful and watch your back, my friend." , Franco said and then after several minutes continued, "Also I want regular reports. The family has buried too many that have gotten on this guy's radar. I don't want you to end up one of them. Use our usual way of delivery, it will get to me. I also want a promise that no matter why, you are never to meet this Dark Shadow alone. You got me, Never?"

Smiling he continued, “Yes, gentlemen I think I have filled my plate to the top.”

Franco smiled as he knew that a full plate was how his friend liked it.

Rubbing his hands together he added, “This should be fun, anything else I need to know, or maybe tell you?”

Franco nodded as he said, "Tia, keep on eye out as like I said earlier something has me majorly worried concerning both Tia and Rosa."

Hearing a knock on the back door, he opened it barely as he said, "Looks like time to go. Richard, meet Brennan Dawson."

To Bren, he said, "Bren, see Seth safely back. Me and Richard Greene are headed to Shadow Lounge in about ten after you leave. Notify my brothers as we should get there in thirty." Then pointing to Greene, he continued, " Brennan, anything he gives you, bring straight to me. Not Anthony as Anthony doesn't trust himself, understood?"

Brennan justs nodded and looked at Greene as he whispered, "Professor, leave a note on the Staff Board stating that you need me to help you collect plants. I will know that either we need to talk or you need to get something to them. I also advise that you have Tarik insure that your office is safe to talk."

Turning to Seth, he said, "Let's go, boss." Waiting until after Seth stood and walked out, then he left.

Franco smiled as he said to Richard, "Bren's a good kid but has his own grudge against Dark Shadow. Keep an eye on him and I have a feeling if he finds Valentine, Azkaban is not where he plans on sending the man."

03/06/12 – Richard



Richard was thinking of various methods about how he could arrange a meeting and how he could possibly bring out all three of Anthony’s characters, when Franco’s comment finally sunk into his thoughts. “What do you mean unique taste? You said he was a ladies’ man so that leaves out some categories. Give me an idea of what you mean, and I will see what I can do on possibly arranging an assistant to my little outing.” Richard had used assistants before, but he tried to stay away from female assistance. He had been told time and time again from some of the more famine personages how they could handle themselves as well as he could, but his upbringing on protecting women was deeply imbedded in his makeup.



Richard was not much of a drinker. He had built up a more than adequate defense to liquor, a necessity of his job. At the moment though, he was thinking of getting another drink. “I have the idea Anthony promised Marcus he would watch out for Tia and possibly her friends also. Do you gentlemen think Anthony as the Chameleon was sending Tia the threats? That would make sense on the ease in which the threats were delivered.”

“But why not anymore?” Richard questioned in his own mind. Out loud he continued, “Ok, Tia was getting threats, and now she is not. That means something important has happened in between the two times. Has anything happened to Tia or any of the core Allies from the time you know for certain Tia received a threat and now? And are you sure she is not still getting threats?”



Richard smiled, “Yes Boss, I hear and I will obey.” Then in a more serious tone he said, “Honest, I have no desire to meet the Dark Shadow alone, or without thoroughly planning the setting of the meeting and the surroundings. Franco my friend, you know from the past I have never been one for giving reports. Taking the time to give a report can cause you to loose precious time in the investigation. Remember the report you wanted on the North American Indian Reservation? At the exact moment I was reporting, two of the subjects involved picked that exact time to try and destroy the one artifact you wanted. I had a very difficult time getting the item from them and getting away with my life intact. I will promise you I will make an attempt to contact you. Good backup is always good to have, and I know you will guard my back. You also know more about the people involved, information that would take me years to find out.”



“Tia and Rosa are both in my Herbology classes. That should give me a good reason to open conversations with both of them. Tia may be a little more difficult getting to know, because she is older and has learned to not trust easily. Rose is younger, but I think she is starting to get cautious also, just a feeling I have though. I will not be able to push for trust with either one, very hard because if it does not come slowly, then they will put up a wall, which will be very difficult to break thorough. That avenue will be slow treading.”



Richard nodded to the young man, he had seen around the school. It made Richard feel a little older, with the new generation of law enforcement and investigators coming up through the ranks.



“Thanks Brennan, I will do as you suggest. Everyone here seems to trust Tarik. How much can I tell him about what I am doing? The man is smart, he is also a bit on the mysterious at times.” Richard liked Tarik but trusting too many with information, could complicate matters, especially if it was necessary to act one way in front of one person and a different way in front of another individual. If those individuals crossed paths at least one of them should be able to back up your story.



Richard thought before he spoke, “I will keep him away from the meeting with Anthony then. It is a real good possibility Valentine, will be there somehow. The man is good I realize, which means he works from behind the scenes most of the time, but he probably is cocky enough to be hidden ‘in the open’ for the extra thrill.”

Looking toward the door, and then back at Franco Richard asked, “You said we were going to the Shadow Lounge. I am ready when you are. It has been a while since I was there.”



03/07/12 – Franco

“What do you mean unique taste? You said he was a ladies’ man so that leaves out some categories. Give me an idea of what you mean, and I will see what I can do on possibly arranging an assistant to my little outing.”

Franco smiled as he thought about what was Tony's taste in women. Then chuckling a little he said, "Let's just say that Tony likes women that can handle themselves. He doesn't like women that need constant attention. Women that are that way usually don't stay in his eye ranged for long."

“I have the idea Anthony promised Marcus he would watch out for Tia and possibly her friends also. Do you gentlemen think Anthony as the Chameleon was sending Tia the threats? That would make sense on the ease in which the threats were delivered.”

Franco nodded at the possibility as he said, "Possible that Chameleon delivers them but according to the ones that we have found are signed Dark Shadow." Reaching into his pocket and pulling out a copy of a few of the notes that Samantha had found.

As he had them to Richard, he said, "This is the kind of thing that girl has had to deal with since her first year. One of those notes is not addressed to Tia but to Marcus. He got that note the day of his death. Richard, you wanted intel on Dark Shadow's mind frame. Well what kind of man do you think he is, when he can write threats like these?"

“But why not anymore?” Richard questioned in his own mind. Out loud he continued, “Ok, Tia was getting threats, and now she is not. That means something important has happened in between the two times. Has anything happened to Tia or any of the core Allies from the time you know for certain Tia received a threat and now? And are you sure she is not still getting threats?”

Franco remembered back and said sadly, "Tia and Miranda Dawson disappeared from Diagon Alley on August 30th, right before Tia was to enter her fourth year. They showed up one hour before the train was to arrive. They believed they had been gone only a couple of hours instead of two days. We don't know if she has received any more but usually she shows her friends. She has not been revealing any to the core. In fact Rich, she has been avoiding the Core as much as possible."

Looking at Seth and then back at his friend before continuing, "Also Rich the fear in her eyes as all of that care about extremely worried. For the first time in years, Tia is truly terrified. Rich, you need to understand that in the state she is in, Tia becomes unpredictable. In this state, Tia will do one of two things and both dangerous in their own right. One is to go inside herself which would make her an easy target. The other is to run and you can guess the dangers with that. Either way it seems that Tia has decided to take on Dark Shadow by herself."

Richard smiled, “Yes Boss, I hear and I will obey.”

Franco laughed as he prepared for what happened every time he tried to put safety measures in one of his friend's projects.

Then in a more serious tone he said, “Honest, I have no desire to meet the Dark Shadow alone, or without thoroughly planning the setting of the meeting and the surroundings. Franco my friend, you know from the past I have never been one for giving reports. Taking the time to give a report can cause you to lose precious time in the investigation. Remember the report you wanted on the North American Indian Reservation? At the exact moment I was reporting, two of the subjects involved picked that exact time to try and destroy the one artifact you wanted. I had a very difficult time getting the item from them and getting away with my life intact. I will promise you I will make an attempt to contact you. Good backup is always good to have, and I know you will guard my back. You also know more about the people involved, information that would take me years to find out.”

Franco shook his head and then nodded as he said, "Yeah that was a mess but my friends please just this once, don't underestimate this guy. Everybody who has met this guy alone is dead. Troy even was at the Shadow Lounge and still was shot and killed. This guy has gotten interested in you and that worries me. It worries me because it means that he has decided that you might be a threat. Rich once he realizes that you are, then you become a problem. Dark Shadow deals with problems swiftly and with very little warning."

“Tia and Rosa are both in my Herbology classes. That should give me a good reason to open conversations with both of them. Tia may be a little more difficult getting to know, because she is older and has learned to not trust easily. Rose is younger, but I think she is starting to get cautious also, just a feeling I have though. I will not be able to push for trust with either one, very hard because if it does not come slowly, then they will put up a wall, which will be very difficult to break thorough. That avenue will be slow treading.”

Franco nodded before saying, "In that I leave it up to you. Though Tia won't only put up a wall, she will bolt. With Tia, she is like a rabbit that is cornered. Only Tarik has been able to get her full trust and she won't even tell him everything. She only learned during her second year of most of her history. She found out when Tarik told her about her medallion."

“Thanks Brennan, I will do as you suggest. Everyone here seems to trust Tarik. How much can I tell him about what I am doing? The man is smart, he is also a bit on the mysterious at times.”

Franco smiled as he said, "Tarik is a very secretive man but most of us agree that he has only Tia's best interest at heart."

Richard thought before he spoke, “I will keep him away from the meeting with Anthony then. It is a real good possibility Valentine, will be there somehow. The man is good I realize, which means he works from behind the scenes most of the time, but he probably is cocky enough to be hidden ‘in the open’ for the extra thrill.”

Franco nodded.

Looking toward the door, and then back at Franco Richard asked, “You said we were going to the Shadow Lounge. I am ready when you are. It has been a while since I was there.”

Franco nodded. As they left he would lift the protection spells

03/07/12 – Richard



The description sounded interesting. A few faces floated through Richard’s mind for possibilities of approaching for help.



Richard read some of the notes, and realized this man was one of the worst dangers there was. He worked on finding weak links to situations, like children, and then used what he could to scare them. Only one of the notes went to anyone who could have been considered a physical threat to him. “He uses weakness to his advantage. Preying on children is a little cowardly, but I would bet he sees it as using the easiest way to gain information. He definitely wants something he thinks Tia has or can give him. He is cocky and takes it for granted things will go his way. We may be able to use that against him. Somewhere along the line when he thinks everything is falling into place, he will make a mistake, I am sure of it.”



“Why doesn’t someone just tell the girl why she is being protected and hunted? “ Richard thought to himself. Two days with no memory meant some type of spell had been put on her. It would probably wear off in one way or another over time. Someone would say something which would bring back a memory or dreams would try and bring the memories to the front. “When she gets the memories back,” said Richard, “someone has to be there to let her know they are memories of what happened in the past. Memories can be used to get those who held her and her friends for the two days.”



“Franco, I like Tarik, and although he is a ‘closed personality’ there is strength there which can be trusted. I think he could be a good ally to you and those helping. Now how about us moving this meeting to the Shadow Lounge? I know I could use something refreshing to drink and maybe we can get some type of snack there.” Richard was getting a bit hungry. If he was going to drink, even a little he needed food in his stomach.



With a quick apparition spell, they were standing outside the backdoor of the Shadow Lounge.