The Search Begins (Combined Copy)

The Search Begins (Combined Copy)

(Hogsmeade, Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop, 2013
Darik

Darik walked back to the Egyptian Tea Room to make sure everything was ready for the meeting. The others would be arriving any minute. The room had been set up for Master Tarik as a place of comfort and to meet where top security was always in place. Master Tarik had put in most of the higher level protection spells and Darik was in charge of making sure they were all in place and adding any others which might be necessary depending on how the room was being used. Extending out his right hand, fingers spread, palm down, he concentrated on checking all the safety spells. All of the guards were active. During this process, Darik added a very strong blocker spell, because Master Richard had told Darik, there was a strong possibility there was a tracker spell on him.

Looking over at the side-board he checked to make sure the refreshments were in order. There was the special tea, Master Richard always drank, and Mistress Sara’s No-name cookies were on a large plate for Master Brennan. Master Franco preferred the strong Egyptian Herbal Tea which Master Tarik liked, so it was in abundance. Darik had added Pumpkin Juice, and some small sandwiches to the lineup.

The meeting had been called to be able to gather information for the Caretakers. Apparently Master Brennan was the one most important for keeping track of the information. Darik would enjoy watching the young human grow in his understandings and his abilities. Master Tarik had given Darik permission to start classes teaching the Medjai way of survival of life to all those who wanted to learn. Brennan was to be added to his classes. The classes were growing fast.

With everything ready, Darik left the room, sealed it and went back out into the main dining room, to see if there was anything else he could do before the others arrived.

Richard

Richard had told Brennan to set up the meeting he was about to attend. Brennan had the skill of profiling using written material, pictures and information of past events concerning the person or group he was trying to figure out. The meeting would bring several people together who could exchange information and compile a folder for Brennan.

Apparating to just outside the door, Richard looked in the window. It looked quiet, so he walked in causing the little bell above the door to tinkle. Darik as always was there to meet him. “Hello, my friend. It seems I am the first person to arrive. Did Brennan tell you about the special blocker spell needed? It seems there is a very strong possibility, I have someone interesting in knowing where I go.”

Looking around the room, Richard added, “I think I will wait out here until the others arrive.” Richard headed for one of the seats which was near the back of the Tea Shoppe, where he could look out the window, but no one would be able to see him from outside. “Can I have some tea please, Darik?”

(OCC: Darik is one of my characters. Preplanned thread)


Darik

Apparating to just outside the door, Richard looked in the window. It looked quiet, so he walked in causing the little bell above the door to tinkle. Darik as always was there to meet him. “Hello, my friend. It seems I am the first person to arrive. Did Brennan tell you about the special blocker spell needed? It seems there is a very strong possibility, I have someone interesting in knowing where I go.”

Darik opened the door for Master Richard and bowed slightly. “It is good to see you Master Richard. Yes you are the first to arrive. I am expecting the others momentarily though. The room is ready and sealed at the moment. Master Brennan did inform me of your special needs and as long as you are within the walls of the Tea Shop or with 100 yards of the exterior any tracker on you will be blocked. It is a catagoy 5 block. If you think I need higher let me know, because I will have to get with Master Tarik to join with me for its placement.” Darik had put the highest blocker he could on his own.



“There is a table all set for you Master Richard. It has been checked for listening devices and a second layer of blockers have been added.” Darik motioned toward the table in the back corner. “I will bring you some tea right away. I have everything set up in the Room also. Please be seated.” Darik hurried to the kitchen area, to get the tea before someone else arrived.

Franco

Franco had been spending a lot of time gathering any and all the information Brennan had requested. He had been a little shocked that his brother Neo seemed to not be the only one that could see though his disguises. It seemed that Darik could as well. That elf was full of surprises. Thinking about why he looked as he did, Franco shook his head, What had Air been thinking? She's playing with fire. We can't be sure that Khalid doesn't have a price on her head.

Franco had played his part to perfection and so far no bites. Hog's Head was known to have a lot of Shadow's people coming there. They would try again later but this meeting took priority. Brennan's specialty was profiling their target. In this case, Shadow and whoever had wrote them each a note. His note was one of the reasons, that Franco was worried about this new assignment that Arianna had given him. Remembering his note:



Franco was more than a little worried. He had all of the notes, crime scene pictures and a journal. Though the journal had yet to be read as it seemed Troy only wanted one person to read it. Franco hated blood locks, especially when the key was not Spellman blood. He wondered if it was Tia's blood.

Having opened the door, he wondered if he would fool Greene or Brennan yet again.

(OCC: Pre-planned Thread

Richard



Richard sat at the table in the corner, mostly looking out the window at the passers-by. It was quiet outside. It was getting close to dinner time so most were probably heading somewhere to eat. As he watched a young man walked slowly up the street, stopped and pretended to examine one of the shop windows while looking around. The move was good, but anyone paying close attention would have been able to tell what he was doing. Then the man, walked pointedly toward the Tea Shoppe. Richard lost sight of him at this point because of the turn of the building.



Darik
The bell over the door rang as the same young man Richard was following the movements of, entered the building. Richard slowly removed his wand from his sleeve pocket and placed it on the table covered by a napkin. Then he picked up his tea mug and pretended to drink, while watching over the rim of the mug. Darik who was standing at the door, talked to the young man as if he was a friend, so Richard put his wand back in his pocket, but did not relax the mussels in his arm. Richard again looked out the window but kept one eye on the man by the door. To Richards surprise the young man walked straight over to his table and sat down in one of the seats.

“Excuse me young man, but this table is taken. There are plenty of other comfortable ones.” Richard did not want to be rude but the young man would have to leave.



Darik had just made it back to his normal spot at the front door. Master Richard had his tea and seemed comfortable. All the preparation was started for the evening crowd and all his animals out back had their evening meals. When Darik looked up he was startled for a split second, until he realized who was standing in front of him. Quietly with a smile he said, “Master Franco, it is good to see you again. Are you undercover or would it be ok to recognize you? Master Richard is waiting for you at the back table. There is presently a blocking spell on him and anyone around him. I have also added another small spell on the Tea Shoppe and 100 feet out from it.”

Darik was not going to take any chances. He was in charge of security at the moment and he took his job seriously. “The Egyptian room is ready for the meeting and locked down at the moment. Master Brennan has not arrived yet, but I am expecting him at any time. If you would like to join Master Richard, I will serve you some of your special tea, and I will also bring out part of a fresh batch of Madam Sara’s No-Name cookies.” Darik smiled again and as he headed for the kitchen he saw Master Franco make his way to the back table occupied by Master Richard.



When Darik came back out of the kitchen, Master Richard was asking Master Franco to move.

Apparently he did not recognize Master Franco. Darik smiled and said as he reached the table, “Here is your Tea and snack, Master Franco. Enjoy.” Looking over at Master Richard he smiled, “His disguise is good is it not, Master Richard?”

Darik turned and headed back to his place at the front door. Master Brennan should be arriving anytime.

Brennan/Franco
Brennan had been waiting until the last possible moment to leave for the Tea Shop. It seemed to still be a go but he seemed to have a tail. Shaking his head as he realized that he had only one choice and still make the meeting on time. He hated Appariting. Having walked out the gate to Hogwarts, he remembered why. It had been only twice he had done it. Both times he had gotten sick afterwards.

The thing was that he hated tails worst. Looking around again, Bren apparited.

Quietly with a smile he said, “Master Franco, it is good to see you again. Are you undercover or would it be ok to recognize you? Master Richard is waiting for you at the back table. There is presently a blocking spell on him and anyone around him. I have also added another small spell on the Tea Shoppe and 100 feet out from it.”

Franco smiled as he whispered, "And you my friend. Just came from Hog's Head, Arianna's idea. I will take it off after we enter the Tea Shop. That is if my spare case is here?"

He nodded about the blocker spell. Still inwardly grinning as he said, " How bad is the tracker? Though I am glad that nobody will know that we met here. Sara here? Also is everything ready?"



Franco nodded as he handed Darik the info that Brennan had ask for as he said, "This is everything. You know what to do Darik."

At the mention of the cookies, Franco nodded as he headed towards the table.



Franco stayed seated and even said in his Echelon voice, "I like this one. You don't like it! Then Move as I am not!" He liked the disguise. He figured if he could fool his fellow members then it would work.



He glared at Richard until Darik brought his tea and cookies. Listening he said laughing, "Darik, you spoiled my fun." He knew that Darik would understand that he needed to test this new disguise.

Looking at Richard, he said, "It is a new one and needs to be prefect, Richard. Who better to test it on then you and Mister Sherlock? Please don't tell him until Darik can judge if it will work."



Bren arrived a block away from the Tea Shop and threw up. After walking the rest of the way, He entered the Tea Shop. Smiling at Richard and Darik, Bren pulled his wand. Then as he pointed it at the man that sat with Richard, Brennan said, "You have five seconds to put your hands where I can see them, Frank Cole!"

Bren had just been told about this man. Frank Cole was wanted for the kidnapping of at least three Medjai bodyguards of Arianna's.

(OCC: Both Franco and Bren are my characters.)

Darik


“Yes Master Franco, your bag is in the British Tea Room. When you are ready to change let me know. I will make sure the place is aired out well. If there is anything I can do to assist you and Mistress Arianna, let me know.”



“it is a above average tracker spell, with a long location beam. I am trying to back-track it, but who ever set it is good. I will continue to work on it. Mistress Sara has stepped out. She was heading to the Owl Post Office and if I know her, she is talking Master Will’s ears off.” Darik smiled. Mistress Sara would probably also be making her rounds with the other shop keepers, checking on any information which needed to be known. She had set up a small information network set up to help the children stay safe.



“I will put it in the Egyptian Room, for when you all hold your meeting. Copies will also be available in a very short time.” When Darik was handed anything of importance he would make a copy of what he could. The Journal could not be copied because of the blood lock, but it will be protected.



When Darik, saw Master Brennan coming through the door, he was about to give his standard friendly greeting when Master Brennan, pulled his wand and pointed it toward Master Franco. Darik reacted from instinct. He gave a non-verbal “Expelliarmus” in order to disarm Master Brennan. At the same time he said, “No Master Brennan, it is ok.”

Richard


Richard stared at the young man and picked up his tea mug, while dropping his right hand to his lap. At this point he worked his wand out of his sleeve pocket and was ready to use it.



He glared at Richard until Darik brought his tea and cookies. Listening he said laughing, "Darik, you spoiled my fun." He knew that Darik would understand that he needed to test this new disguise.

Looking at Richard, he said, "It is a new one and needs to be perfect, Richard. Who better to test it on then you and Mister Sherlock? Please don't tell him until Darik can judge if it will work."

It took a moment for what Darik had said to register with Richard. Richard looked at the young man and then at Darik. Turning back to Franco he said, “I had been told you were a master at disguises, but you are much more. Franco you are really good. So why, if I am allowed to ask do you look like this?”



Even with watching the “stranger” and finding out whom he was Richard had kept an eye out the window. At first it was because if there was one trouble maker around, there was usually another. They seemed to travel in pairs or larger groups. He saw Brennan working his way to the main door. “Franco, it looks like Sherlock has arrived. It will be interesting to see how he handles the situation.”

Richard did not expect the reaction Brennan gave. Before he could react Darik had already disarmed Brennan and was trying desperately to calm him down. Richard stood up, forgetting he had his wand in his hand. “Brennan, it is ok. There are only friends here.” Turning back to Franco he said, “Say something Franco, before the young wizard, puts a full body bind spell on us all.”

Darik looked over at Master Richard and Master Franco and said, “Master Franco, it is a good disguise. Congratulation! When you are ready to change, the room is all set.” Looking at Master Brennan, he said, “I think Master Brennan can use some cold Pumpkin Juice.” At this he headed for the kitchen.

(OCC: Darik is one of my characters)

Franco



Franco nodded as he said, "You could do one thing Darik. See if you can find the real Frank Cole. We can't afford him showing up when I am using his identity. Darik, I will also need to get his voice prefect. The problem with this is he is so new to Khalid's family circle that I have no voice samples. We don't even know his connection as of yet. All Arianna has been able to come up with is that those three bodyguards of her's had been working for Khalid all along. Got anything more from those three, Darik?"



He nodded again. Franco wished that William Blakelee could help out with this assignment.



Franco smiled as he said, "Let's just hope that the information Brennan asked for is enough for us to deal with Khalid and find Fox."



Franco smiled as he said, "I will explain at the meeting. Let's just say that Air needs me to replace a new member of Khalid's Dark Sect."



Franco nodded still worried that he had already made a mistake as he had no bites at Hog's Head.



He smiled as he realized that the disguise was perfect. He needed to know though what the man sounded like. He had to get the voice down before him and Arianna put the plan into action. One error and he would find out firsthand how Khalid or Shadow dealt with spies.



Franco was glad that Darik was quick. He listened as Bren told Darik about what Frank Cole was wanted for. Smiling Franco realized that the false story had already become known at the Ministry. He knew that if there was a leak still at the Ministry at least his story would check out.



Franco smiled as he said with venom in his voice, "That boy's wand is no longer in his hand! He's no real threat!"



Franco only relaxed slightly, "The voice Darik, what about the voice?"

He watched as Brennan smiled and said, "Yes Darik, with maybe some No-name Cookies? Also can I have my wand back?"

Looking at Franco new look as he said, "Franco sorry, but it shows how perfect this look is." Showing him and Richard the wanted poster for Frank Cole.

Then as he sat down Brennan said, "I can't wait to hear what you are working on now."

(OCC: Brennan is one of my characters. Frank Cole is an extra character. One of my other characters in Sasha McChey

Darik


Although the name Frank Cole was familiar to Darik, mostly because he tried to keep up with who was in town, he had not run into him. It would not be hard to find out information through his Elf connections. Even the Echelon used Elves and never paid much attention to them, even if they were in the room. They seemed to be an invisible part of wizard’s lives. Darik had spent many long hours training and connecting with elves in many walks of life. “I will see what I can do Master Franco, although it may take a few hours.” Darik closed his eyes for a moment and mentally sent out the call. His range was only about 250 miles, but that would be good enough to get started.



“There is only one of them at the moment Master Franco. Two bodies turned up in the Thames River, and have been positively identified as the one who called himself Simons and the one who called himself Thompson. No news has been printed in any of the Muggle papers due to the fact the Muggle Authorizes have been told it is a high government investigation. The Daily Prophet is running a small article in hopes someone sees the third man, Cartwright. If the man was smart he is still alive; if not then we will not have to worry about him. I will keep you informed.” Darik made a mental not to try and locate Cartwright if possible.



Darik smiled, “With the information you are adding, the information Master Richard had obtained and other information I have been able to locate, there is a large pile for him to go through. We also have information in our heads which can be added.” It was going to take Master Brennan a long time to go through it all. He would have to add another supply of no-name cookies and pumpkin juice to the room.



Franco only relaxed slightly, "The voice Darik, what about the voice?"

“Master Franco the word has been sent out while I was standing here. We are not sure how many elves minds it must go through. Give it time please!” Darik was trying to be patient, because so many of the humans, wanted information immediately.



Darik sent Master Brennan’s wand slowly through the air back to him. “Sorry Master Brennan. I see you have been practicing drawing techniques. This is good. I will return in a moment with your snack.” Darik disappeared through the swinging café doors to the kitchen.

Richard


Ever since Richard had started to work with his Elf friend, he marveled at the assuredness of knowing he could accomplish something.



Franco smiled as he said, "I will explain at the meeting. Let's just say that Air needs me to replace a new member of Khalid's Dark Sect."

“I cannot wait for that explanation.” Richard smiled as he rolled his eyes. Air knew all the specialties of each of her operatives and would use them to their fullest. She knew each knew the risks they were taking and each had been given the choice of opting out of the Caretaker Group.



Franco smiled as he said with venom in his voice, "That boy's wand is no longer in his hand! He's no real threat!"

Richard looked at Franco with a questioning stare, and then looked down at this hand. His was poised to send out a spell. “Oh, sorry.” he said as he put the wand back in his sleeve pocket.



As Brennan came toward the table, Richard apologized. “Sorry Sherlock. Darik is right you have been practicing. That was a very smooth move. Maybe we can have a dueling contest sometime. It has been a while since I participated in one.”

“Franco has been able to bring information. I am certain Darik has it copied by now and the information is set in the Egyptian Room. When Darik returns we will head to the back.” Looking at Franco he asked, “Are you going to change first?” Then generally he continued, “I was hoping to have Darik sit in on the whole meeting, but Sara is not here and he will not be able to leave the Tea Shoppe unattended.” Richard wondered if Sara would bring anyone else into the search. He was positive Darik had told her about the meeting and why they were having it. Sara would have gone out into Hogsmeade to see what help she could obtain for them. Will at the Owl Post Office was still very young, but Darik had talked highly of the skills he was learning in Darik’s small impromptu class on the Egyptian way of life.

Brennan


Franco nodded.



Franco frowned as he said, "If word gets back to Khalid about those two, then the plan is toast. They were supposed to be held not killed. Darik find Cartwright and stop that article. Those three were going to insure that Arianna got into Frank Cole's hands tonight. Yes, it makes them traitors but last I heard Arianna wanted them kept alive. Darik find out how they are now dead. If Arianna ordered it then I need to know how I am to play it." Franco wondered how he was going to salvage this mission.



Franco nodded.



He said sadly, "Rich, if this disguise gets blown then I am not the only one to pay. Arianna is risking her own skin and I do not like it one bit. I have tried to talk her out of this plan and let me go in alone. She won't hear of it. She said something about Frank Cole being tested and that I could not afford to fail. Maybe I should inform Tarik?"



Franco nodded.



Franco frowned as he said, "Darik, I am sorry but at midnight the plan goes down. I am worried as I am going into the hornets' nest with little prep work. Darik, please understand that Arianna is risking herself in this plan. I don't even know what Frank Cole's orders are except to kidnap Arianna at Hog's Head at Midnight."

He had not shown them the note he received at the ministry. Franco didn't even realize that he still had his note in his hand until it fell on the table by Greene.



He had been more than a little rattled by it.



Brennan smiled then frowned as he said, "I am still not as fast as Darik."



Bren said a little sad, "I still lost my wand. I would be honored."



Bren nodded as he said, "Maybe that note of Saint's should be hit first. I think it could explain why he is so worried." He knew Franco had never been this nervous about a disguise before.



He watched as Franco nodded and headed for the British Room. Once he was sure Franco was out of hearing range, he said to Richard, "Richard, Franco needs to regain his confidence in his talent. Any ideas on how to help him?"



Bren nodded as he bit into a cookie.

(Pre-planned Thread)

Darik


As Darik was putting Master Brennan’s Pumpkin Juice and no-named cookies on a tray, he sent out another call to the local Elf at the Daily Prophet, to have the article stopped. The Elf was specially trained and had the ear of the editor of the paper, through special arrangements. He also requested information on the two dead men and Cartwright. Before he had completed filling the tray, information came back the article had been squashed, and the two men in the Thames were under Polyjuice Potions. One of the members of the ministry thought to use the hiding of the three men, by a branch of the Ministry who did not seem to be very important, because they did not have an office, as a ruse to get other dark wizards to show themselves, so he set up the Polyjuice on two unsuspecting wizards. All three double agents were alive and being held under very strict security in a place of Arianna’s choosing. Darik knew he would not want to be in the ministry member’s shoes, who had tried the stunt.



Darik carefully carried the tray back out to the table. “Master Franco, I have not located Frank Cole yet. Turns out he was in St. Mango’s hospital a couple of days ago under an assumed name. We are checking to see if they have a recording of his voice on any of their instruments. There is a possibility he is in Germany, but it has not been confirmed”

“Also, the article has been squashed and the men found in the Thames River were not the double-agents. A young Ministry representative who ‘used’,” Darik emphasized the word, “ to work for the Ministry thought he could trick dark wizards into coming out. The man is being turned over to Mistress Arianna for questioning and punishment.” Darik slowly shook his head, “I hope she is not in a bad mood.”



He watched as Franco nodded and headed for the British Room. Once he was sure Franco was out of hearing range, he said to Richard, "Richard, Franco needs to regain his confidence in his talent. Any ideas on how to help him?"

Darik watched as Master Franco headed to the back to change. He did seem to be very tired and Darik was sure it was not part of the disguise. Maybe he could do something. He would put out another call and advise the network to give top priority to finding Frank Cole and getting a copy of his voice.

Richard


“Franco, Arianna is our boss. If she wanted her brother involved she would bring him into this. Until then we just have to wait and see. If she disappears for any length of time we will have to notify him. I know he has been to the Seven Deaths island chain when the Seven were running things,” Richard stopped because he could tell Franco was about to ask how he knew that, then he continued, “Franco do not ask me how I know, it is just a piece of information I picked up. He is not a traitor, he went there on a fact finding trip on his own business.”



“Friend I think you are going to have to gain a few years under your belt to even close to being that fast.” Richard said with a bit of a crooked smile.



Bren said a little sad, "I still lost my wand. I would be honored."

“You were focusing on who you thought was an enemy and not the possibility of those you considered friends attacking you. It is one of those lessons learned the hard way, Sherlock. Just remember the lesson and it will help you sharpen your skills. When we have some time we will set up a dueling contest. Maybe we can make a day of it with some friends.”



“As soon as we get settled into the back room we will start to work on it. Even with all the precautions we have taken out here, I would rather be a bit more stabilized in a smaller place.”



He watched as Franco nodded and headed for the British Room. Once he was sure Franco was out of hearing range, he said to Richard, "Richard, Franco needs to regain his confidence in his talent. Any ideas on how to help him?"

“I think we may have helped a little in that department today. Brennan, Franco knows he is good and he has had a lot of practice. Right now he is worried about others and not just himself. Sometimes when you take a partner into a situation, especially when you are undercover, you get worried about make a mistake which would cause injury or death to the other person. He is worried about Arianna being hurt, even though I am sure she has told him several times, not to worry it is her decision.”

“As I told Franco before Arianna is our boss and we cannot bring Tarik into the situation, because in this case he would be considered an innocent.” Richard looked pointedly at Darik, hoping he would understand the point may be reached to bring Tarik into the confidence. Darik could decide and act on it without any back lash.
“Dark when Sara returns, come into the meeting. Also if you get any further information let us know immediately.”

“Now let’s see if Franco is finished changing yet. We all have things which still need to be accomplished tonight.” Richard picked up his mug, Franco’s note and the plate of no-name cookies, and headed to the Egyptian tea room in the back.

(OCC: For more information on the three tea rooms in the back of Madam Puddifoot’s Tea Shoppe, check out Legacy Wiki)

Brennan/Franco


Franco nodded and then was about to ask why Tarik was involved with the Seven, when Rich stopped.



Franco smiled as he realized that Tarik must have found some runes or other ancient writings that had peaked his interest. He just hoped that Tarik's curiosity didn't come back to bite him. Realizing that he should voice his concern, he said, "Richard, Tarik's curiosity in ancient writings is legendary. Though I am worried that it will one day bite him. Especially with Daniel Marsden's death as at least the leader of the Seven was a man of his word."



Franco looked at his watch as he shook his head. He usually had weeks to copy a person. This time, he would be lucky to have a couple of hours. Nodding to Darik, Franco said, "I doubt if he is in Germany when he has to be at Hog's Head by Midnight tonight. Darik, the more I know about this guy the better. I can't afford even one slip this time."



Franco smiled, then frowned as he said, "Let's say this: She was not pleased to find out that Medjai that both her and Tarik trusted had been secretly loyal to Khalid. She is keeping them alive only because she wants to know how many more Khalid has in his pocket."



Brennan nodded.



Bren again nodded but his eyes told Richard how much Brennan was worried about his wand skills.



Sherlock nodded as he said, "I will be busy for several days, if not longer. But since Franco seems to be overly worried about his disguise, I think that his note needs to be handled first. Rich, something has him spooked."



Brennan nodded as he said, " I understand that but it seems to be more."



Bren gave a giggle as he said, “I doubt if Arianna is keeping Tarik in the dark because of him being an innocent. It more likely her and Sasha are more worried about Tarik's over-protectiveness."



Bren got up and headed for the back.




Brennan smiled as he opened the Egyptian Tea Room and saw Franco already seating down. Turning to Richard as he too sat down, he said, "Let's deal with Franco's note first."

He waited for Richard to write them in the air.

Richard


Franco smiled as he realized that Tarik must have found some runes or other ancient writings that had peaked his interest. ….. "Richard, Tarik's curiosity in ancient writings is legendary. Though I am worried that it will one day bite him. Especially with Daniel Marsden's death as at least the leader of the Seven was a man of his word."

“As far as I know he has never told anyone what he learned there. I think it will all depend on how much the Echelon wants to get into Seven’s old business. Most likely he will tell Sasha first and then she can call anyone in she thinks is necessary.” Richard smiled, because a great thought just hit him, “We may even get a crack at visiting the Seven enclaves. There is information there which I could use in a lot of ways. I may even be able to solve some of my own personal open cases.”



Sherlock nodded as he said, "I will be busy for several days, if not longer. But since Franco seems to be overly worried about his disguise, I think that his note needs to be handled first. Rich, something has him spooked."

“We can take care of Franco’s note first then see if we can get some information stuck in our heads in some order. As you go through the written and pictured information make a list of questions you might have if we are not near. Oh, and Brennan, the Egyptian room or any of the other tea rooms are the only place I know of that are at least 99.9% secure, because of the level of spells on this place. So if you would rather work in the British or Chinese room that will be up to you, but nothing…..including some of the papers in your many pockets, leaves the Tea Shoppe. Agreed?” Richard knew Darik and Tarik had both put several layers of spells on the whole Tea Shoppe and even more on various rooms. Some were not normal Wizard spells but special Medjai concoctions.



Brennan nodded as he said, “I understand that but it seems to be more."

Richard nodded in thoughtful agreement.



Bren gave a giggle as he said, “I doubt if Arianna is keeping Tarik in the dark because of him being an innocent. It more likely she and Sasha are more worried about Tarik's over-protectiveness."

Richard had to add a chuckle to Brennan comment. “You are probably right on that point. I know Arianna commented once, Tarik tended to get in the way sometimes with his good intentions. If he found out what Arianna was planning, he would lock her up.” Richard chuckled again; the situation could be taken as funny, but Tarik would stop what needed to be tried. Arianna, had explained to him once, this was one of the reasons, he had never been brought into the Caretaker Group. Thinking back to one of their conversations he tried to remember how she had put it. ”Ah yes,” he thought to himself, “he did not play well with others.”

Then to Brennan he said, “It will be ok, Arianna and Sasha can handle Tarik, or they will call us.”



(Richard)“Now let’s see if Franco is finished changing yet. We all have things which still need to be accomplished tonight.” Richard picked up his mug, Franco's note and the plate of no-name cookies, and headed to the Egyptian tea room in the back.

Brennan smiled as he opened the Egyptian Tea Room and saw Franco already seating down. Turning to Richard as he too sat down, he said, "Let's deal with Franco's note first."

Richard accepted the nod from Darik as confirmation he understood his instructions. Darik would be working totally on finding out information as soon as he felt he had been released from taking care of their needs. Sara should be returning any moment also.



Reaching the Egyptian room, Brennan opened the door and walked in ahead of Richard. As Richard entered he noticed two things, one Franco was comfortably seated in one of the heavily cushioned chairs and the door security system immediately kicked in surrounding the door frame with a slight green glow. Darik was taking no chances.

Richard took out his wand and wrote on the air board, the contents of Franco’s note. The air board which actually looked like the writing was hanging in the air, allowed anyone from any angle to see the writing. It was possible even to walk through the suspended words. Richard handed Brennan the note and winking at Franco, because he was not sure how much experience Franco had with Brennan’s talent, he said, “Okay, Sherlock you are up.” Then he went to the side board to retrieve a refill on his tea and place the no-name cookies with the other snacks there.

(OCC: Arianna and Darik are my characters, so I said what they have done)

Darik


Darik nodded and sent out a silent request for Mistress Sara to return as soon as she could. Before she had left she had told him to call her if he needed her to watch the shop during the meeting. Then he focused back on what Master Franco had said. “I will double check all information Master Franco.”



Franco smiled, then frowned as he said, "Let's say this: She was not pleased to find out that Medjai that both her and Tarik trusted had been secretly loyal to Khalid. She is keeping them alive only because she wants to know how many more Khalid has in his pocket."

“There are bad wizards in every group, Master Franco. If they hold any information Mistress Arianna needs, she will get it from them.” Darik inwardly cringed. Mistress Arianna was one of the nicest humans he knew, and he did not like the thought she was being made to do what she needed to do.



“Mistress Sara should be back any moment. When she arrives I will check with all my contacts and then join the meeting. Oh, I will have to come in through the door. I put a blocker spell on anyone being able to apparate into the room. The spell even blocks me at the moment.” Darik smiled because normally when he used the spell, he always left room for him being able to get in with an Elf Apparation spell.

He watched as Master Richard and Master Brennan walked toward the back. He had already checked on Master Franco and knew he would be waiting for them.

Brennan


Franco just nodded as his mind went back to the note. It was the fourth that he had received. Though this was the first that marked him as a Caretaker. The other three were more about the work he did for the Daily Prophet. There was three stories he had been working on and now it seemed that somebody had realized that he had been using his job to ask questions as a Caretaker. One note had even told him exactly what Katrina had been doing and had hinted that if he did not back off, then the writer would see about reuniting the new arrivals with the boy's father. Only very few knew who his nephew's father was. Kat had never confirmed what the brothers had suspected.

Those notes only Greene knew about. He had not noticed a tear that fell from his right eye.



Franco nodded as he said, "I just wished that Arianna would let you or Tarik deal with them."



Franco smiled and then realized something. His face got a very worried look on his face as he wondered if that is why Shadow and Khalid wanted Arianna. He thought fearing for Arianna as he knows was surer that they planned on finding something to hold over Tarik to loosen his tongue. He then wondered what would happen when Tarik kept his secrets. Khalid could not be that dark that he would order the death of Ari, so who would they go after next and could the Caretakers stop them? He had to tell the others what he suspected.



Bren nodded as he started emptied his pockets yet again though now several more items had been added. He had taken a day off and went back to his home with Greene. It had taken all day but it had been worth it as they found several notes that finally explained why his parents chose not to raise Miranda. His mother's address book was also add as Arianna's number as well as Greene's uncle's. He smiled as he now knew that his mother was only trying to protect both of Dawson's children. By the time he was done nearly every table had stuff on it with labels for each table. He knew that Greene had seen this before in his office but he wondered what Darik would do.



Brennan nodded as he knew that it was one of few things that the siblings argued about.



Bren smiled as he said, “Most likely Sasha as she unknowingly has Tarik wrapped around her little finger."



Bren looked back at Darik and smiled. The elf took his duties very seriously, Bren thought as he and Richard made their way to the Egyptian Tea Room where they found Franco was already comfortably seated.



Bren smiled as he watched Franco's reaction to the note. He realized that he had been right about the note having spooked Franco. He wondered if Greene had noticed Franco's tense posture. He nodded to Greene as he stood and started profiling the note.

"This part, Saint, tells me that the writer wanted Franco to know that he knew the connection between the show and Franco's specialty," Bren said as he wrote his words in the air.

"This part, Peek a boo, seems to be a reference to a child's game. It seems that he thinks of this as a game.", Bren said as he watched Franco looking at a picture. It seemed to not be a old picture. He looked at Greene as he hoped that Rich would find out about the picture as Franco had true fear in his eyes and not for himself but for whoever was in the picture.

" This part, I see you!, is a connection to the game. He likes to taunt Franco as if the game is more personal. It could also mean that he is also a wizard that prefers to use disguises. He could use polyjuice potion and likes to think he is better than Franco due to their different ways. Franco uses show make-up and costumes to get his looks. This could hint at a hatred for anything that is not magical or at least his belief that it is inferior to magical means. Greene, we know that Franco is the best that we have at this."

" This part, Keep your Spellman nose, out of others' business!, he seems to be saying that Franco is putting his nose in the writer's business. He is also letting us know that he is not liking Franco investigating.", Bren smiled as he continued, "He is most likely worried that Franco knows more about something."

Bren smiled as he read the next part as he said, "Greene, I told you that with each piece the writer tells us a little more about who is really is. This next section It was a lesson that
James, Troy, Samantha, and the Laroux boys

Needed to learn the hard way. is one very important piece. Everyone named have done something to keep Shadow from Tia. The writer has given us his identity. It is Shadow and he also is admitting to at least Franco that he was responsible for their deaths. Question: Is any of Franco's cases have to do with protecting Tia?" Bren saw that Franco had brought all of the files that he was working on.

" This part, How many more, before you see that your disguises Don't Fool Me?, Shadow, seems to be threatening Franco but at the same time questioning Franco's abilities. The thing is that he is repeating himself. This makes me think that he is challenging Franco," Sherlock said as calmly as he could. He wondered if maybe Franco had ran into Shadow and their target was worried about Franco remembering. Continuing he said, "I am starting to think that Franco has ran into Shadow and that has got Shadow interested in just how good Franco is."




Bren read aloud the next part and then said, "This is referring to all five of them; Franco, Neo, Leo, Marco and Katrina. There are few that remember that Kat is only 5 minutes younger then Franco. I can see why Franco has been worried as this mission is not only putting Arianna at risk but also somebody else as well. It is a threat against one of Franco's siblings. Most likely the one that would hurt the most as Shadow likes going for weak spots."

Brennan said, "This part Be In Touch! like yours Rich means that Shadow plans or has made contact again."

Looking at Greene as he said, "Does it strike you as odd Greene? It seems to Shadow that each of us is a challenge or a test that he has to prove something. It is almost as if he has to make sure that he shows us that we really are no threat. He is targeting our specialties. He is also making sure we play his game by threatening something we each care about."

(OCC: Info can be found in other threads.)

Richard


Darik nodded and sent out a silent request for Mistress Sara to return as soon as she could. Before she had left she had told him to call her if he needed her to watch the shop during the meeting. Then he focused back on what Master Franco had said. “I will double check all information Master Franco.”

Those notes only Greene knew about. He had not noticed a tear that fell from his right eye.

Richard knew all the talk of notes was taking Franco’s mind back to a place he did not want to be. The tear slowly falling from the corner of his eye told him a lot. Richard hoped Franco had brought the notes with him. If not, he would have to remind him, they could be part of what was going on at the moment. To Richard, it felt like so much of the past was slowly converging on some point in the future. How far away that point was he had no idea, but it was there.



The sadness on Franco’s face melted into worry. Richard could not read his thoughts but with Franco working with Arianna on a job, and all the talk of Tarik, he wondered if Franco was putting some of the information together. Richard had added things up and he was very worried about Arianna. He had never told her how much he really worried.



Bren nodded as he started emptied his pockets yet again though now several more items had been added. He had taken a day off and went back to his home with Greene…… He smiled as he now knew that his mother was only trying to protect both of Dawson's children.

Richard watched as Bren started to empty his pockets in the middle of the Dining room. Darik’s large expressive eyes became even bigger. The Elf looked around to see who was in the room and quickly put up a wall around the several tables, Master Brennan was using. At the moment he thought Master Brennan was done, he started the copying process. The copies replaced the originals and started to pile up in one pile along with their labels. The originals started to collect in another pile along with their labels. Darik considered on having a talk with the young Master about security issues, otherwise Darik was going to end up in St. Mango’s with heart problems. For now he just smiled and kept copying papers and getting them back into two piles so they could be put away.



Bren smiled as he watched Franco's reaction to the note. He realized that he had been right about the note having spooked Franco. He wondered if Greene had noticed Franco's tense posture. He nodded to Greene as he stood and started profiling the note.

Richard walked over and leaned against the sideboard not far from where Franco sat. He really enjoyed watching and listening to his partner’s explanations.



Richard nodded and took a sip from his tea mug.



Brennan looked at Franco and then at Richard. Richard saw a questioning gaze, so he looked to see what had caused its question. Franco had taken out a picture from some pocket and was studying it with a very serious look on his face. Richard reached out and silently asked if he could see the picture. Franco handed it to him. The picture was of himself and his twin Kat, enjoying what looked like a dinner in a fancy restaurant. They were both very happy in the photograph. Richard handed back the picture and told Bren to keep going.



“Bren, can you tell if the writer has established any rules to this ‘game’ of his. Can we figure out his next possible move, I guess I am asking?” Richard did not expect a positive answer but maybe it would get Brennan’s mind working along those lines, if not now than during a quiet time in the future.



Richard nodded, but he was not sure of the details at the moment. “Franco you will have to pull the correct files out or give Brennan the rundown on any material which fits in to his question.” Richard looked over at the stack and the thought; he would have to answer the same question himself concerning some of his own cases. Mentally Richard started to make a partial tally



Richard looked down at Franco and asked, “Franco, you are the only one who can comment on Brennan’s thoughts. I know a little about the cases you were working on, but could there be something there which would have put you at a point too close to someone.” Richard knew all three of them were figuring the sender was Shadow, but he had no ideas what questions at the moment to ask Franco, because they were still trying to pin down information and correlate what they knew. Brennan would have questions which would be a big start toward putting the information together.



Richard put his cup down, and crossed his arms. “Now that is an interesting thought. It could have been anywhere, but I would be willing to guess it was at the Shadow Lounge, could be wrong though. It would be one place Shadow could get lost in the crowd and not stand out as any of the characters which frequent the place. Franco, talk with Neo when you get a chance and see if anyone relatively new has been around in say the past month or so. Maybe we can get some possible connections to track down.” Richard smiled and waved toward the air-board. “Sorry Bren didn’t mean to interrupt, go ahead.”



Richard knew the one of the five which meant the most to Franco was Katrina, his twin. He drew strength in a way from her; from his talks with her; from just knowing he was not alone. “Franco, maybe Kat should go away for a while. I know of several safe places she could go and be happy. My friend you must talk with her and make her understand.”

There was nothing more Richard could do to help with Kat other than keep an eye on her as much as possible.



“I think we will all agree Shadow is not done yet with any of us. He is enjoying this way too much.



“I always said emotions were human’s downfalls. So what we need to find out is what he cares about and threaten it or them.” Richard knew this would be an almost impossible feat, but it was the only one which made sense at the moment. Shadow like everyone else, must have a weakness, but whatever it was, it was hidden well. “Bren you need to concentrate on seeing if you can find his weakness. The hint will be there somewhere I am sure.”

(OOC: Darik is another one of my characters)

Darik


Darik looked at Master Franco, and questioned, “Do you not have enough confidence in Mistress Arianna’s abilities to handle what she says she can handle? Do I need to question her as to her intents and possible extension of her abilities?” It had been a long time since Darik had doubts of Mistress Arianna being able handle a situation she was not asking help fixing. With everything going on at the school and Tea Shoppe he may have missed something.



By the time he was done nearly every table had stuff on it with labels for each table. He knew that Greene had seen this before in his office but he wondered what Darik would do.

Richard watched as Bren started to empty his pockets in the middle of the Dining room. Darik’s large expressive eyes became even bigger. The Elf looked around to see who was in the room and quickly put up a wall around the several tables, Master Brennan was using. At the moment he thought Master Brennan was done, he started the copying process.

Darik would be having a talk with Master Brennan as soon as he could find the free time. The young Master was too trusting. He never should have pulled even one scrap of paper out while they were still in the main dining room. To not give him any warning was also a very bad misjudgment on Master Brennan’s part. Darik would have to stay more alert, like he used to when Master Tarik was younger.

As Darik floated the last piece of paper over to the copy pile, he heard the bell over the door to the Tea Shoppe chime. Putting an invisibility charm around the papers which were neatly stacked on the sideboard, he dropped the protection wall and greeted Mistress Sara. “Were you able to find what you needed in Town, Mistress Sara?”

“Yes Darik,” said Sara as she walked back to her favorite table in the back corner of the Tea Shoppe, located very close to the side board. “Will the stacks of papers need to be on the sideboard long? I thought you were going to a meeting.” Sara smiled because she could tell Darik had gotten a little impatient waiting to attend the meeting in the Egyptian Room. “Go ahead I can handle everything until you are done.”

Darik smiled broadly and made sure everything on Mistress Sara’s table was perfect. The tea was fresh and a small dinner had been set out for her. “I will take the papers to the meeting with me, Mistress Sara. If you need anything let me know. I have a no-apparation spell on the room. The only way in is through the door, which I will lock behind me. Please use the buzzer system if you need me.” With this, Darik dropped the spell on the papers and carefully picked them up. Making a slight bow to Mistress Sara he headed to the back room. He knocked twice, waited five seconds and knocked three times more. Unsealing the door, he walked in and resealed the entrance. Just as he entered he heard Master Brennan ask:



(Richard) “Franco you will have to pull the correct files out or give Brennan the rundown on any material which fits in to his question.” Richard looked over at the stack and the thought; he would have to answer the same question himself concerning some of his own cases. Mentally Richard started to make a partial tally

While Master Richard was talking, Darik walked over to where all the other papers had been put and placed the additional ones from Master Brennan’s pockets near the stack. He did not wait for Master Franco to answer or try and find the file; he knew exactly which one was needed.

Thumbing through the folders, he found it toward the bottom of the second stack. “Unexplained Deaths – Shadow?”. This he handed to Master Richard, because Master Brennan was still in the middle of the room, concentrating on the Air-board. Darik went over to one of the very large cushion, sat comfortably cross-legged on it and levitated it up to a level he could easily read the air-board. Now he would listen to the rest of the meeting until he was asked a question or until he had information which would help.

Master Richard smiled and silently thanked him for his effort. He held onto the folder until Brennan signaled he needed it.

(OOC: Sara and Richard are another two of my characters)