;

Seraphina shoots Felix a wry grin, her gaze landing on the cigarette he offers her but then retracts within the same second. Instantly, she laughs and rolls her eyes at his dramatics while also making a point to get her own cigarettes from her pocket, direct eye contact with Felix as she places one to her mouth. "Oh, so no different than the Felix we already know and tolerate." Seraphina quips, arching a brow at his quick dissociation. She has to say it's impressive that he can turn it on and off at will, something she envies at times. But behind her teasing nature is a gratitude that Felix won't be delving any deeper into her pissed off mood, in fact he's the perfect friend to get drunk with in this moment.

"Since when have I been a sad-drunk?" she scoffs at him, lighting her cigarette in the next moment with a quick point of her finger which she cups to shield from any human eyes. "I've known you for too long to ever cry around you, anyway. I remember when I was vomiting Sambuca out of my nose, all you did was pat my back. Which only made more snot-vomit happen." she reminds him but her words cause a small lightbulb moment. "Fuck you. You did that on purpose." Seraphina decides in a quick groan of offence but quickens her pace to match Felix's. "Bar, obviously. Seeing you dance at Howl was just embarrassing, so I'm never going back there with you again. Want to try that new place? Central Sipping or whatever? Heard the cocktails are nice."

"Hilarious." Felix returned instantly with a dry tone, despite fetching his packet of cigarettes for their walk. He helped himself to one first, and the one intended for Seraphina ended up hovering in the air with hesitation as she was her usual snarky self. Even if Felix could hear the edge to her words that this wasn't fun-snarky-Phina, this was bitch-fit Phina. "Okay, well. Fuck you." he added perkily, tapping the cigarette back down into the packet and refusing to be generous for the rest of their walk. He couldn't fight the roll of his eyes, but Felix knew better than anyone when questions were and weren't welcome. He never appreciated prying either, and read the situation loud and clear. Seraphina wasn't fine, and he didn't blame her. Dad slightly accused of murder, drug addicted ex-boyfriend back.

Although, he'd take the life-swap over becoming a wolf and losing magic. He'd take great pleasure in watching Olaf's name dragged through the mud. Not so much pleasure taken in being gay in that life, though. "That was my allotted sympathy for the situation, by the way. So if you get sad-drunk and start crying to me about it...." Felix waved his hand over his face, flattening his expression into a hollow look. "That's all you're getting." he added, features returning to the subtle signs of usual life. It was also his way of accepting the invitation and slowly, a mischievous grin flicked over his lips. "We didn't want you there. It's not rocket science, tech-Barbie." he shrugged, quickening his pace to just a fraction faster. "Where are you thinking? Bar? Don't say fucking Howl. I'll kill you."

;

Jasmine's lips twitch with the smallest of smirks as she hears Fox's little ponderings. One of the first things she noticed about him, other than the fact he can disappear without warning, is how he speaks his mind. He has about as much control over his inner workings as he does his own tangibility, which is why Jasmine has no issue offering her own opinions freely when with him. "Maybe because you're different in general so the universe was like...now be super rare. So people realize it even more?" she shrugs, letting out a slight chuckle. Within the next moment, Jasmine witnesses how Fox's constant thinking can be a curse as well as a gift and a frown tugs over her lips. "...maybe don't think about that." she utters, watching his expression closely. "Or they shadow stepped somewhere really cool and are there. Or there's...other kind of Asphodel's dotted around. I only knew about this one, though. My...great uncle or something came here apparently, because every time he tried to shift he'd have one ear that didn't. And a hare with a human ear is..." she shudders. "That was the 30s, though. Never knew him. Glad I didn't." Jasmine falls into her own rambling, stopping when she hears Fox's tone turn with more optimism. She pauses her own search among the shelves, a quick bouncing step to his side to peer to the book. "Aw...that does sound fun. Where would you step to, if you could? Right now?" her curiosity piques but then Jasmine is frowning again, forcing the book back open. "No, come on. There has to be something in here that can help."

@waterfallswords fox x jasmine - library

At least Fox can look at her now without vanishing. That's one good thing but he has to really concentrate, and not stare into Jasmine's eyes for too long otherwise he goes poof and it's just embarrassing for everyone involved. Luckily, with his focus on the shelves in the library, the risk of Fox disappearing into nothing is at a steady five out of ten. "I was kinda thinking how it's...sort of funny. A fucked up sorta funny that...out of everything for me to become, I had to become something that's...not got a lot of info floating around." Fox mumbles, cautious to keep his voice low as he searches along the rows of books. None of which pop out at him as any use. He thinks he's seen more things about trapping shades than anything else, but he's not been one long enough to be offended by it. "And then I was kinda thinking what if there's been people like me that didn't meet someone like you. Where are they at right now? Stuck somewhere?" he frowns, eyes still locked on the books as one appears useful. "Shadow Stepping: What we know. Huh." he makes a thoughtful noise. "Also kinda funny that I two step at shows and now shadow step without even wanting to." he grins to himself, flicking through the pages quickly. "Actually, that wasn't that funny." Fox bounces his head up from the page to give Jas a smile before his gaze flicks to the book again. "Myth: A shade can shadow step to a different country." he reads and immediately sighs. "Aw man, that'd be cool." Fox mutters, shoulders dropping with defeat momentarily. "This isn't looking too hopeful, Jazzy. Do you wanna get some food or something?"

;

"Only just noticed, babe?" Seraphina grins, giving a double take to make sure it is actually Felix that's joined her and she isn't insulting an unsuspecting and needy supernatural. The pep in the Sinclair's step falters almost immediately at his mention of Jet and she can't even fight the frown on her face. "Yeah, he's here." Seraphina nods, watching Felix take a leisurely glance over his own shoulder and prompting her to shove his arm to make him look ahead again. "Don't turn into a fanboy now, Fefe. God. Do you want a signed guitar pick next?" she quips for the sake of her own sanity, quickening her pace and knowing Felix will have no issue in keeping up. Slowly, her gaze slides to her friend and the uncomfortable stiffness that always happens when either of them try and form a conversation beyond remarks and jabs. It makes her snort, even if Felix's attempt of checking in sounds like he's pulling his own teeth. "I'm fine, don't hurt yourself." Seraphina resounds flatly, tugging her coat tighter around herself as her pace becomes a march. "I'm getting drunk, like completely off my tits as Tarquin would say. You coming?" she offers instead, a needed distraction as she begins treating the sidewalk as her own runway barely even moving an inch for the other pedestrians. "Thanks for the fucking invite, by the way. Paris would have been nice for...you know, the French girl."

leaving asphodel because i can't have all my threads there that's insane

felix ranstrom and seraphina sinclair @waterfallswords

"I think I'm losing it." Felix didn't even offer the Sinclair witch a real greeting as his steps took him to Seraphina's side, their footing falling into sync as they headed to the main doors. "But I think I just saw Jet?" he added, glancing over his shoulder to ensure the gothic witch hadn't somehow teleported near their vicinity. Jet's return wasn't particularly Felix's issue. Despite never letting the whole changing a surname to Venom thing go, the two truly got along. Dry humor and sarcastic wit went a long way when Felix chose friends, along with having no choice but to talk to Jet whenever Serphina went through her obsessive stages in the relationship. None of that bothered him, his issue fell into the concern that his short stint of avoidance had even extended into his friendships. Ones that actually mattered to him. "How did that go? Is he..." the word sober faltered from him, considering he had no room for any commentary let alone any to judge. "Are you..." Oh wow, he was getting increasingly worse at this. "Y'know...you okay?"

Name: Jasmine Madden

Age & Birthday: 27, October 15th

Gender/Pronouns: ciswoman she/her

Species: Shapeshifter - Hare

Birthplace: Flora, Indiana

Connection to Asphodel and/or the Syndicate: Attending/None

Job/role: Attending

Positive personality traits: Compassionate, Observant, Balanced, Energetic

Negative personality traits: Sensitive, Particular, Stubborn, Flighty

ABOUT

Jasmine was born in the heart of Indiana, where she was raised in the warm embrace of a tightknit family of shapeshifters. Inheriting the form of a hare from her mother's lineage, Jasmine grew up surrounded by her own kind. But despite the close bonds within the Madden family, Jasmine felt a longing for connection beyond the confines of a supernatural existence. Mostly homeschooled and sheltered from the outside world, Jasmine's natural curiosity and adventurous spirit often led her on explorations of the surrounding wilderness. But even among the tranquility of her family's peaceful existence, there lingered potential danger. The Maddens maintained an uneasy alliance with local hunters, relying on their protection from other supernatural threats.

However, peace was not to last for the Madden shifters. A devastating attack shattered their peaceful existence, leaving only Jasmine and a few survivors. The deaths of their family left them with more questions than answers. While the aftermath pointed at vampires as suspects, Jasmine couldn't shake the feeling that their trusted hunters might be to blame. At twenty-five, Jasmine made the difficult decision to leave Indiana behind and hoped it would leave her grief behind her in the process.

Embracing her passion for art, Jasmine sketched out a living through her creative talents, supplemented by sporadic part-time work as she traversed the country. She learned a lot about herself during this time, mostly how running away from things never really solves them. It was in the rugged landscapes of West Virginia that Jasmine's plans to work her way up to Canada were changed completely.

She witnessed something she had only ever heard stories about, a shade vanishing before her very eyes. But, she knew she could help Fox when he finally reappeared again and she could see how much he was struggling with his own tangibility. Jasmine had no issues changing her plans, knowing where Fox could be helped properly. She joined him in New York at Asphodel, though her reasons aren't entirely selfless. Jasmine hopes that by enrolling in a few programs, that she doesn't truly need, she can use the institute's vast resources to slowly start piercing together the true reason and cause of her family's deaths.

Name: Seraphina Sinclair

Age & Birthday: 30 years old, June 6th

Gender/Pronouns: Cis Female / She/her

Species: Witch - White Magic

Birthplace: NYC, New York

Connection to Asphodel and/or the Syndicate: Family, Sinclair Enterprise

Job/role: Mentor

Positive Personality Traits: precise, passionate, determined

Negative Personality Traits: rebellious, impulsive, cunning

ABOUT

The Sinclair witches reign supreme as tech titans with their empire, Sinclair Enterprises. For decades, they've forged a relationship with The Syndicate, ensuring the organization's operations remain secretive and secure. Along with this promise. Sinclair Enterprises provides The Syndicate with the best technology available, including weaponry.

Seraphina was born and raised among the gleaming towers of Sinclair wealth and ambition, taught how to navigate the ruthless arena of business and how every advantage comes at a price and how competition is a blood spot. However, as she grew older, her interest within the world of tech diminished. Enjoying herself and the connections she made became a priority to her instead, even if she studied at prestigious universities in order to later join her family's business. Seraphina became swept up in the glamour of knowing high profile names and faces, veering into the fashion world of all things. Still, her family make attempts at bringing her back to her roots even if it's often to no avail.

One of the many ways they do this is by making Seraphina take up mentor positions for a few programs and courses at Asphodel Institute. While her heart isn't in it, Seraphina does gain a sense of meaning to her life from helping others. She usually breaks all the rules of maintaining a professional mentor-mentee rapport though and sweeps them away to parties at penthouses.

Recently, after the murders at Asphodel, Julien Sinclair was considered a subject. Seraphina is aware of how her family are helping her good friend Safiye Alkan after a data leak that put industry names of The Syndicate at risk. And with their fathers both named as suspects, Seraphina is wondering how long they can keep up the charade. She knows her father is innocent, however and refuses to even engage in conversation that hints at otherwise. As for Safiye's father, Kaan, Seraphina can't be too sure.

location: gencorp

starter for: carmen bishop and nico bishop @rviner

;

"Up and at 'em, right?" Carmen acknowledges her sister on the wonderful Monday morning, coffee in hand and her shades still on. It's rare for her to be anywhere within the offices, preferring the solitude in the labs but Carmen makes an appearance every now and then. Mostly to remind people that she does exist and her name on her office door isn't just for show. It's not only herself that's a strange sight through the offices, Carmen suddenly realizes that Nico's flash of color is too. She takes a quick glance to her watch, peering back to her sister as she whips off her shades. "Fifteen minutes early, holy crap, Nic. Eager beaver over here. I thought you wanted to..." she falters to think of a quip this early. "I don't know, fuck the patriarchy and burn gencorp to the ground and curse the family tree." Carmen slings her arm with a lazy air punch. "Fuck yeah, maybe you can do it if you're twenty minutes earlier tomorrow." but all teasing aside, Carmen flashes her sister a wide grin to show no ill-intentions, if it's not too late for that. "Good weekend? Did you er..." what does Nico like again? "Do some coloring?"

Huffing, Gen rolls her eyes at her niece's excuses. "And that's a lifetime for a Ranstrown, Bella. Anyways, everybody could see it a mile away so stop pretending." she adds with a plain tone before her laughter slips through, only brought to a stop briefly by her niece's scolding tap before it bubbles up again. The smile that Gen witnesses flicker over Bella's face says it all, really and prompts the older Belcourt to tilt her head in a light challenge. "He's ever so charming, Isabella. And you're right, it is surprising but then it's so pleasant that it makes you all the more charmed. I really do think he's my favorite Ranstrudel." she muses with nothing but warmth in her tone. Gen is certain Bella and Felix will manage to navigate the pause in their relationship, and if anything she's simply counting down until she hears the news of it all starting up again. "I don't suppose he'd want to come for a family dinner one week, would he? I think it's my turn next week."

Gen lets out a louder laugh then, half confused but mostly amused. "How come!? I'm the one doing it!" she exclaims through her mischievous chuckles. "Oh, you're too mature for your own good sometimes." she teases as Bella fetches her phone and Gen gives her niece a grin. "Me? Making you? Oh of course, Miss He Is A Sweetiepop." it's a childish quip and Gen can't even say it with a straight face but her laughter is interrupted by Bella's notification buzzes. For a brief second, it causes Gen to grab her own phone before her gaze darts to the other witch. "Well, come on. Don't be coy. Is it him!? What's he saying? Let's get coffee, and you can set my heart page up and read me his texts."

Bella's laughter cascades into a soft squeak as Gen drags poor Sarah back into the conversation. "No." Bella asserts with a slow, adamant shake of her head. "We were together for, like, four or five months. Just to... clarify." Why is her aunt making her overshare right now!? Sarah seems amused but bewildered, and Bella can't control her chuckles. "Gen, behave now," she chides, tapping her aunt's arm, their roles momentarily reversed, but more chuckles follow nonetheless. "Aw, he is." Bella muses softly about Henrik. Even though she understands exactly what Gen means about a Ranström curse, she stays quiet, thoughts drifting to Felix and the glimpse she caught of his family dynamics. A lighter smile graces her lips as she instinctively nods. "Yeah, Felix is a sweetiepop." she agrees, adopting Gen's words as her own for the day. "Like a surprise one, you know?" she adds with a chuckle. "A sweetie. A sweetie emo boy giraffe thing with a curse."

And Felix will likely feel inundated with attention due to Gen's spamming, but Bella doesn't mind the prospect at all. However, she braces herself to defend herself against any accusations that she's behind it. "Yeah, he'll definitely see it! But, he won't know it's you!" Bella nods, eyes wide in mild horror as she laughs. Until Gen threatens leaving a comment. "Okay! We had fun, this was funny but it's ending now!" she cackles out, accepting the inevitable flood of notifications. Retrieving her own phone, she assesses the damage, sharing in Gen's mischievous laughter that fills the space between them. "I always have a blast with you, even if you're making me seem obsessed with my ex." she says, looping her arm through her aunt's as they stroll. Her gaze bops up to Gen next, Bella already grinning at the idea of her aunt on instagram. "I think you should, I can help set it up and then you can spam people with your name instead." she laughs, feeling her phone buzz in her palm. "Oh, wonderful. It's started already." Bella checks it, seeing Felix's name across the screen and giving her aunt an amused glance.

DELIVERY FOR NADIA BELCOURT

Message attached: Michon the Bichon was well behaved for his portrait today. I'm sure you'll find somewhere for it so you don't miss him when he's not with you xo

@ofwrxth

;

Gen can say one thing, there's never a dull moment with her family and even if a Belcourt may be known to be all business, no one truly knows the warmth and slight touch of chaos they all bring to the table. Nadia's, as always, in the form of quick wit and Gen wrinkles her nose, giving her sister a gracious smile. "Well," she address the host of niece and nephews. "Thank you, how lovely of you all but I only really like mink fur, darlings." she tells them, still clutching the bottle of wine and wishing she bought two.

Her finger then raises to the boys, pointing between Nick and Seb as if in warning despite her playful grin. "Your mother and father never wanted to tell you this, but I'm your aunt so I can do what I want. One of you was an accident, so just think about that." she utters, having to do a double take as her sister's words somehow sweep her into the dog ownership. "Ah-ah. Nads, I hope that plan doesn't include me- thank you. I just got here." Genevieve forms a slight gasp to Nadia's apparent resolve, but she raises the bottle in her hands as if a beacon of hope to guide them all to get started for dinner. "Come on. We're going to need this. Wish people told me things were happening, they make dog wine now. The pup could have had a glass." @manybcdthings

Nick was certain that the closer her got to his mother with the dog, the more Nadia would peer into Michon the Bichon's big button eyes and all would be well. Even as Seb, Pri and Bella still tried to maintain their innocence, Nick was on a different problem solving path and was surprised his brother and sisters hadn't seen exactly what was going to happen. They were going to end up with the dog. "Mom, come on. Look into his eyes and say that." Nick encouraged, lifting Michon a little higher. "Straight in them, no blinking."

"Not helping." Nick then turned to Pri, taking Michon for the little spin and the dog's head tilting with confusion. "Breeders, because I had no idea...that's how people get dogs, right?" he glanced to Seb and Bella. "Also not helping." Nick commented, turning to both of them so Michon looked to them too. Their Aunt's Gen arrival only added another layer for Nick to try and work through, turning then with the dog...because if she would take Michon, then the crisis was averted. "He's...a family dog? Actually, no. A mom and aunt dog. For sisters. A sister thing, so Bella and Pri too. Me and Seb realized we dropped the ball on international women's day so....here you go. For the girls. Inspired by you all on the daily." @rviner

;

"-but they're not all incompetent so I'll give them that." Aiyla's words end abruptly as she steps into Quinlan's office, gaze dropping to Roman in one of the seats opposite the desk. "Oh." her head tilts. "I suppose this is why my lawyers keep saying that your lawyers keep saying that you are busy. You're here, having whiskey and cigarettes." The Kelly witch's sass isn't greatly appreciated either and Aiyla's eyes scan to Quinlan before she blinks. "Can you not annoy me too today? I'm doing you a favor." she quips, even if Roman hasn't said a word to her yet. "Two favors." Aiyla adds, moving swiftly to the other seat beside Roman. "Three, actually." she mutters, and there's only a look that acknowledges Roman's even there before her hand lifts out, awaiting the contract. "Not a problem at all." she says to Quinlan while staring to the wolf, snatching the papers before Roman can hand them completely over to her.

Aiyla soon settles into silence, a quick clear of her throat to demand the same from the others as she scans over the contract. There's a lot of furious flipping of papers, a few scratches of her nose and a few huffs before Aiyla breaks the silence. With her hand extending to Roman and her eyes still fixed on the contract. "Pen." she says, also snatching it before he has the change to give it to her properly and she's back to her focus. A few moments later, she closes the papers and places them to the desk, Roman's pen sitting ontop and not handed back to him. "Force Majeure Clause." Aiyla states, glancing to Roman as if he's an idiot for even missing it before her eyes are back to Quinlan. "The language is ambiguous, it only vaguely mentions acts of terrorism, natural disasters and acts of government. Which means a good lawyer can argue the point of it meaning something unpredictable has occured. So you can action it stating unforeseen circumstances are forcing you to terminate the contract early." she waves her hand as she thinks. "Market conditions, technological issues. Anything, really. I can draft something up for you. It will be fun to argue with them." Aiyla adds, her gaze once again locking to Roman as a smug grin moves over her lips. "I told you that you needed glasses." @rviner

Quinlan's silence, Roman's learned over the years, is a still but shark infested ocean. He doesn't trust it, squinting his gaze to the witch sharply. "Stop plotting." he remarks quickly, before hearing Quinlan's gallant statement. It pulls Roman's eyes into a heavy roll, his head following lazily. "Okay, great. Good for you, my friend. And, that'll be great for whatever lawyer is stupid enough to help you but I'm not putting my name on this." he replies within the same instant, even if Roman returns to searching through the contract. They are friends after all, even if from the outside looking in, the Kelly and Mendez have established a rather bizarre connection.

As if on cue, Roman's expression drops to Quinlan's words and the smirk is gone. Never to come back, he thinks. He's been narrowly avoiding Aiyla but it has been successful, easily a ten day streak now which Quinlan wants to see brought to an end. "Fuck you." Roman bites back, although it's without volume as Quinlan remains on the call. He says it again once it's ended. "Fuck. You." added with extra bite, Roman glancing to his watch. "This is nothing about you thinking she's good at her job, don't even fuck with me right now." he waves the contract like a warning. "I could've said yeah Quin, I'll take this on for you and watch you lose twenty million with a grin but I didn't. I was honest. Because I'm a good fucking friend, she's going to waltz in here and just..." he's said too much, more words for his daily quota and Roman glances to his watch, quickly working out how long it will take for Aiyla to arrive. "I'm leaving in fifteen minutes. Don't say I do nothing for you. But, fuck you."

Name: Tyler 'Ty' Carmichael

Age & Birthday: 27 years old, August 12th

Gender/Pronouns: Cis Man He/Him

Species: Werewolf

Birthplace: NYC, New York

Industry: Law Enforcement/Military/Security

Positive Personality Traits: Generous, Loyal, Determined

Negative Personality Traits: Stubborn, Overzealous, Explosive

ABOUT

Tyler was born in New York City to Rachel and Adrian Carmichael, raised with a keen awareness of their legacy in law enforcement, military service. From a young age he was aware of his family's crucial role within the Syndicate, knowing that his future would also be tied to the organization in one way or another. Tyler has always been a unique blend of respectability and boundless energy. His laid back and easy going nature always draws others to him, but beneath is the unmistakable Carmichael determination.

Enlisting in the military at eighteen was a natural progression for Tyler and his four years of service were marked by challenges and growth. In 2019, he was deployed to the Middle East as a member of a small unit. A simple aid mission turned into a gruesome attack as they were met with heavy resistence and relentless enemy fire. Tyler was the sole survivor of the unit, suffering with guilt, PTSD and a host of other mental health issues. His career came to an abrupt end and he returned to New York City, only to struggle adjusting to civilian life.

In the years that followed, and thanks to continuous therapy, Tyler gradually resembled his former self. He's once again known as the laid-back Tyler, often a peacemaker and a voice of reason during confrontations. But Tyler is still burdened by his unpredictability, an explosive nature that takes even himself by surprise. Luckily, it's a rare occurrence and usually only in emotionally charged situations but the sudden anger is something that he hates about himself.

Tyler also struggles with a sense of loss for his military career and a sense of bitterness for his werewolf gene that allowed him to survive. His focus now is mainly on his work with The Syndicate, aiding them with black market trading or lending his military knowledge if it's ever needed. But to Tyler, he doesn't feel anywhere near as proud of himself as he used to. He doesn't feel as if he's a valuable contributor, not even of his family's legacy.

Name: Isla Alvarez

Age & Birthday: 30 years old, December 22nd

Gender/Pronouns: Cis Woman She/Her

Species: Werewolf

Birthplace: NYC, New York

Industry: Politics

Positive Personality Traits: focused, empathetic, driven

Negative Personality Traits: stubborn, secretive, fickle

ABOUT

The Alvarez name is prominent within the political sphere with Miguel Alvarez serving as a diplomat and his wife, Beatriz, a Foreign Service Officer. Isla and her younger sister, Ines, were born into a world of diplomacy and international affairs, growing up in a respectable and loving but also strict household. In some respects, their childhoods could be described as unconventional as it was common for their lives to be uprooted often due to Miguel and Beatriz's work. Isla has lived in several countries, and speaks several languages as a result. While Isla developed a keen interest in international affairs and relations from a young age, she also could feel the weight of expectation and reputation on her shoulders.

She excelled academically, earning a bachelor's degree in International Studies from Georgetown University. Her passion for global issues led her to then pursue a master's degree in Global Governance from the University of Oxford. During her studies, Isla distinguished herself as a thoughtful and analytical woman. But there has always been an underlying mischief within, a slight impulse for rebellion that she can never quite explain. It shows itself through her quick witted response, and despite being a grounding presence, it's well known that Isla's particular ways can not be countered.

After completing her education, Isla embarked on a career within international relations and now works as an International Relations Analyst. Despite her demanding work, Isla wishes to remain grounded and also connected to the lighter things in life. She loves any excuse to be social, and some say that Isla is far better to know as a friend than an enemy. But, it's also easy to tell which one she thinks of you, as whatever she doesn't say with her words is written all over her face.

Her role within politics, just like her parents, has proved useful for their connections with The Syndicate and Isla also isn't above dangerous work if it's needed. Proven by events that happened at the end of 2023. Isla was tasked to gather intelligence on suspected Coalition members within politics but she was compromised, potentially exposing her and her family's connections with The Syndicate. Her family are now considered at risk of surveillance, harassment or even physical harm as well as a potential threat to The Syndicate itself if their connection is discovered.

;

Seraphina ensures she's not facing her mother when her eyes roll. It doesn't matter how Marianne's crystal clear French accent is light and feathery, the constant need for a statement or comment is exhausting. But, she supposes it takes one to know one. "Nope. J'ai varm leggies." is all Seraphina responds with, mimicking her mother's accent teasingly while keeping her own tone chipper with a smile. As she settles at the counter, a more genuine smile grows over her lips about Octavia, offering a quick nod. "Oh yeah, she's good! Still with all the fashiony stuff. Honestly, she keeps getting better and better." she responds, unsure if that topic will want to be touched on. She knows she doesn't want it to be. The question brings out a quick laugh from Seraphina, shaking her head as she chuckles warmly. "No, mom. This is just a quick little OOTD. No shoots or anything." she doesn't think it's even worth mentioning the exciting ones planned, because those will bring a comment or opinion that she doesn't want to hear.

Seraphina can smooth over the cake debacle with ease, only nodding as her mother highlights it. "We're always good! What do you mean?" she purposely takes an unserious offence to the accusation, laughing again. But everything surrounding Felix is depressing to even think about, and she could hear when they were flinging cake around like maniacs that his laughter still carried an empty note. "He's...uh..." Seraphina falters, because she hasn't even asked him. Only because she knows what the response will be. A shrug of shoulders or she'd be looked at like she was crazy for checking in. "Yeah, I think Agneta not talking about it has sort of filtered down, you know? He's just getting on with it. I was thinking we should invite him for dinner or something, I don't know." she shrugs, the suggestion only because she knows Felix loves speaking French with her mother. She ignores everything else he's ever said about Marianne too. Not worth thinking about.

"but the er...coat does not cover your legs, huh? you just have cold legs?" marianne laughs, giving a playful roll of her eyes. she watches seraphina turn in place with a wide and affectionate smile. the truth is, she means nothing by her amusement or statements. she thinks her daughter is easily the most beautiful young woman there is, and she doesn't think that's biased to believe either. "ah oui, octavie! how is she?" she asks after the arison witch, giving a slight hum of approval as seraphina kicks up her leg to brandish her boots. "it is very cute, i love them. what is all this? for a photo session?" marianne waves her hand, eyeing her daughter's outfit again before she chuckles and turns to prepare coffee. she isn't surprised to hear a cool and calm and rather collected deflection from seraphina, turning again with a knowing smile over her lips. "ah, peu importe." marianne shrugs, nearing the counter with the cups of coffee and placing one down for her daughter. "it was at the same place you went to, that is all. you and félix were good, huh?" she doubts it, giving a playful but brief arch of her brow. "how is he? i haven't seen him for a long time now, is he okay? with-" she waves a hand, knowing phina knows exactly what she means. "agneta does not like talking about it. i can't get a word from her."

;

Seraphina holds back a laugh, the irony not lost on her as they exchange pleasantries like they're normal. Since when? As if they haven't been consumed by one another over and over, back and forth. She can feel the restlessness stirring, a craving that she's tried to ignore for the previous months. She convinced herself that seeing Jet again wouldn't make her feel like this. But listening to his words, there's an itch beneath her skin. Their conversation is achingly slow, a far cry from the adrenaline fueled rush they once found with each other. Their passion, spontaneity and unpredictability all reduced to mere words exchanged in a crowded room. "I never said that." Seraphina interjects, grinning to him as she acknowledges his challenge. Locking eyes with Jet, she sees a flicker of intensity behind his gaze. The way he looks at her is in encouragement for her to break first, to confess. "I said it was for the best, because it was." at the time.

Jet's remark earns a smirk from Seraphina and she tilts her head, gaze lingering over him for a beat longer than necessary. "You look healthier, yeah. Less corpse-like." she comments, her tone playful yet sincere. He was barely himself the last time they saw one another, a hollow shadow. It was heartwrenching to watch a bright star dim into nothing. But now, she can see life is back in his eyes, a familiar glow of flames that should serve as a warning. Even if Seraphina only ever reads them as excitement. She gives him a playful roll of eyes, noticing the way they take every opportunity they get to hover closer and closer to one another. "That's either a really shitty way of saying you're going home or a really shitty attempt at asking me to go with you." her grin widens as she tests the waters, eager to see how he'll respond. "Did rehab teach you to bite your tongue, or is that just a new skill you picked up?"

all jet can do is accept that he's been caught in avoidance, giving seraphina a coy nod that's accompanied with a grin. but they both know why he didn't say a word when he arrived, their relationship a reoccurring theme that they never acknowledge fully to be a type of downfall. 'just three weeks. nothing crazy.' he answers, a shrug following his words while knowing they deliver some form of reassurance to her. 'i thought about it.' jet's quick to add, glancing away from seraphina as if referring to contacting her is a tangible thing stood with them. but his words aren't exactly what he intends to say. i wanted to, but i thought we agreed that was it? a wider grin takes place over his expression, jet fighting a laugh to seraphina's reply. and he's laughing because he knows this isn't what either of them want to be talking about. that clearly, from the way they're still looking at each other, their last conversation was nothing but bullshit. 'good and yeah, same, because the weird thing about rehab is it sort of works.' he teases, leaving the additional truth unsaid, works for a while. the question is always for how long. 'what did you figure out? that you don't want me anymore?' his head tilts, the smirk back on his face as he studies over seraphina's.

now all jet is doing is waiting for either one of them to be the first to break. amused because what did either of them expect? they can't really create actual distance for long. and amused because it's usually him that breaks first, a smirk crossing over his lips at seraphina's quip and also her admission. which brings him half a step closer to her with a look of faux surprise. 'oh, wow. really? i must look even prettier than the last time you saw me.' he remarks, tone thick with teasing. and as her arm rises, his hands automatically find her waist, just a smooth glide of palms so his arms can wrap around seraphina to return the embrace. 'yeah, thanks. me too.' he acknowledges the pleasantries, but not nearly as much as he acknowledges the feel of her in his arms. he pulls away with a lingering closeness, and jet doesn't even look as if he's listening to seraphina as much as he's looking at her. eyes scanning over her features as she speaks, as if waiting. we know how this is going to end, phina. 'you want to have a lame ass night because i don't know when to say no?' jet gives her a quizzical expression, pushing just that slightest bit closer to finally air through the bullshit. 'thanks but i'd rather not be the source of misery, you know? trying to get away from that.'

;

"That's a very open ended question, Parky." Carmen muses as a wry grin slinks over her lips. "Being here with you? Yeah." she adds, chuckling but the amusement is brief as she sniffs and they step from the street and into the grand hotel. It's a natural instinct for Carmen, every time she's in the Beekman, to glance up to the ornate architecture and soaring glass ceiling. It still can evoke a sense of wonder after years of being familiar with the sight. Although, she doesn't quite like how small it makes her feel. Nor does she like the slight apprehension for even being here for some mail. "Maybe we're getting written out of the will. Or shares. Or maybe fired? And this is dad's sick sense of humor way of letting us know." Carmen chuckles again, eyes scanning the scattered people through the hotel as they reach the front desk. "Who am I kidding? That would be an email." she adds, attention locked for any signs of someone who may be lingering a look a little too long. Her hand falls to the desk as the staff glances to her and Parker, Carmen offering a stiff smile. "Mail for room 287." she states, watching them nod and disappear. "Could be promoted to hitmen. I'd like that." Carmen says as she glances to her brother, whacking Parker's arm. "We might be each other's first hit too, best game of hide and seek ever."

+ CARMEN / HELION HOTEL

"This doesn't feel a bit low level to you, Carm?" Parker asks is sister as they walk towards the Hellion Hotel. Hands tucked into his pocket, he wonders about what could be waiting for them there. What assignment could they possibly be given? But when something comes from the top, namely their father telling them to do this, it means that it's come from somewhere even above him. Which means it's not in their best interest to protest. The younger Bishop takes another glance at the text. Mail. HH. 9pm. To anyone else it might've seemed impossibly cryptic, but having the knowledge of their family's ties meant it was easier to discern. "What do you think it'll be?" He's curious and gives his sister a raised brow. "Least he's got his best two on it, right?" Parker adds with a grin, only teasing, even if he's sure Carmen thinks so. @waterfallswords

[ audibly says what the fuck as she eats a pastry ] Phina: I don't have them, sorry! 😔😔Don't think he has a team any more to reach out to either. Phina: Maybe you'll bump into him at a party or something😊🤞 Phina: Sounds good Bun just don't think Jet's the guy right now Phina: Lol np Phina: Aww bless you Phina: Have to go babe big meeting Phina: see you sometime💓 [ still eating a pastry in her sweats ]

Bunny: yeah that Bunny: or just send me over his deets? i can reach out Bunny: lol i dont really work for the industry just ubc 🤷‍♀️ i help people get into it tho maybe i can help him get a diff platform for new music? Bunny: aww no didnt mean it like that oops lol Bunny: yeah ofc not struggling was just trying to help someone back on the wagon🥰🥰🥰🥰