AsBloodTurnsEverCold

These things happen. Sounds like a damn busy day.

It as time finally. Kojo gently adjusted his gloves again as he stood there prepared to duck through the shielding cloth that separated him this world from the next. The muffled sound of Mr. Ward starting his opening lines. Kojo....Carlo took a deep breath, his foot tapping against the wood for a few moments. A count. It was slightly muffled but as soon as the sound of clapping drifted through it would be Kojo's time to step out into the slight. To bring these people into his world once again, or for the first time. That hum in his head grew stronger, sang with more anticipation and at some point it became quite difficult to tell if it was him or it that currently desired this the most. There was, ideally, no time to think about it. Kojo just needed to give his opening and once the piano was pushed out it could begin. It would be a good night. It should have been a good night. The light that crept through the cracks in the curtain suddenly went dark. The world outside gasped and then fell silent. It was already dead silent behind those curtains but an unspoken whisper did pass between them all. Was this part of the show? Kojo couldn't recall anything like this during rehearsal? Perhaps a mistake? They waited...and waited. A hum broke the quiet. A melody but it did not belong to Kojo. It disturbed him almost as much as the hum in his head did. It rose up almost as if to meet it but it was not a thrilled hum. Once the lights came back on Kojo expected to hear a muffled joke and to be called forth onto the stage but that was not what happened. No. It should have been a good night. It wasn't. Silence...and then screams. The world outside set into panic and in his head a discordant roar. It was not a good night. The performers all shared a concerned look "A fire maybe? Y'all heard anything?" one of the fiddlers spoke. No one quite moved at least until Kojo made her way out of the curtains with panic. Out of their little peaceful world and into the real one where it was chaos. It was always chaos but this was something else. His strange eyes wide as he watched people scramble every which way trying to reach safety and from what? Her. That screeching in his head was practically one of fury as his eyes set upon the figure that had ruined the night. Clad in blood, as unknown as the night itself. It was a figure of myth in its own way that made the town of Prospect Junction something else. He'd never seen her but damn if he didn't know the name the same way everyone else did. Kojo was cursed because the devil himself had just decided to pay tonight's show a little visit in the form of a woman. A wraith. God help the poor little children. Red Jenny. The denier of the feast. Kojo practically froze in place for a moment. What was this...specter doing up here and what he she? He looked around and there was Mr. Ward, bleeding out. It didn't look particularly violent but clean. Practiced! Damn it all. It'd be one thing to deal with a crazed fan but it was another thing to deal with this. That poor man had been looking forward to the night and there we was forced to grasp at life! Kojo looked between her and the bleeding body and prepared to make his way forward. He wasn't a medicine man though and dammit he didn't have his gun. A venue like this did not normally permit one! He looked about for Mr. Thane. Where was that bastard when he was actually needed? He only looked back to see the smaller figure of a pale creature climb up onto the stage. A myth of her own but not a threat for the night...unless she was interested in Mr. Ward's body for the bounty it offered. It wouldn't be surprising if the legends were true. He still didn't quite believe them. One eye twitching Kojo moved forward "Hey!" a practiced voice cutting through the noise. Lips pursed and tongue positioned as he whistled. It sounded beautiful itself. Steady and loud cutting through the screams. It was a motion Immaculate and practiced to get attention as the performer placed himself between Mr. Ward, his assailant, and the good doctor. It was Kojo's night thought this wasn't quite the attention he needed. It was the attention he'd have to take. He wasn't sure if he'd have to try and defend himself or lead her away but hopefully no one else would end up in such a sorry state. He felt as though he might....It certainly wasn't happy but probably less so than he was at that moment. Damn it all.

Well no one can say Mr. Ward didn't give a killer opening. I hope Mr. Cash put up those No Refund signs.

It was...surprising Kojo had to admit. His surprise wasn't down to a lack of faith in the skills he'd acquired, nor the fame (and infamy) he enjoyed (and bemoaned). He'd played all over, and spread his name. He'd toured the Americas where they would have him, played in hallowed halls all over Europe, enjoyed crowds even in The Orient, and more. His name was known even if it wasn't the name he was born with. He knew the power of music, of sound, of stories delivered on instrument and yet...he was here. He'd played here plenty and yet he couldn't have ever guessed he'd draw this level of crowd in a place like this. He supposed the proprietors of the hall were more than thrilled. He was too. It was simply a marvel and the curtains hadn't even been drawn yet! His strange eyes drifted to the fiddler and nodded "Yes, it seems they are." Kojo shared his nerves but the smile on his face said he was ready. He shifted his attentions back to Mr. Ward. It was hard to say any of the players had higher hopes than their Compere here. He was dedicated to this Kojo could tell and he did appreciate it. The arts were important to him too so it was merely another hope to carry on his shoulders. He'd hardly be one to turn it down. It did seem that they were all feeling it. Don't choke. The anticipation was just as heavy for him as it might have been for others. The jitters before the show was normal, but more than that he couldn't help but think of the crowd. The sight of people who rarely joined them for these events. They are here with open hearts. Sing to them and pull their spirits free, enraptured with the melody. His body hummed with excitement and desire to see the looks on their faces when it all began. What would they think? What would they feel? He wanted it too. He knew, however, he needed to keep control. The music could play him just as well. His reputation surely wouldn't survive if this ended up like that night at the Teatro Olimpico. He needed to remain steady. It was difficult to keep his ego in check with this man in play "Well then, it does fall to me to ensure they leave here contented. I hope you will all help with that." one more encouraging statement as they had hit the point of no return now hadn't they? "All prepared Mr. Ward." it was time, and it fell on him to make sure they were properly introduced. The stage-hands got into place ready to push out the piano, the opener of the night once they'd been introduced. Kojo pull his gloves from his pocket and slipped them on. Anticipation was half the work, now it was the follow through to match. Surely tonight would be a good night. It needed to be.

The air was electrifying....and yet a little strange. His eyes closed just a little hiding those strange orbs as he listened to the hum of things. Life, as it were, was music in its own way and its bore its crescendos and went through its calandos it was all performance. Constant. It was hard not to notice when the crowd would hush and the previously excited atmosphere would shift just a little. Kojo would peel back the certain just a little and peer out. It was hard not to notice the wide-berth certain segments of the crowd gave a short, pale woman with golden hair and eyes of fire opposite his own. A figure of myth even if it was merely rumor. A vampire out from her castle to enjoy the musing of the night. Kojo let the curtain fall again. He didn't fully believe in her given title, but the air around the lady was that of doom. He was familiar. He had no idea what truth, or not to the rumors and he did desire to find out but for no he had to keep his mind on his mind....well as much as he could. All this life...it was making the hum in his head all the louder. He didn't have too much room to ponder as soon Mr. Silas Ward moved through the curtains. The master of ceremonies. Kojo widened his gaze and looked upon the man who appeared to be taking his job quite seriously. He could recognize the overly glinting smile combined with eyes searching anything and every movement for error. Kojo did not move from his spot until the man's gaze turned to him. The musician finally steadied his foot and and met the man's smile with his own "Yes its quite the turnout isn't it? Not just for myself but all of us there upon that stage to show their skills in some way isn't that right Mr. Ward? I'm certain you'll make sure they know they're in for quite the show." he smiled figuring that being friends to the master of ceremonies would make sure they get a good introduction. "You have quite the shine to your top lights Mr. Ward. Are you as excited to get this show on the road as we are?" one of the ladies asked. Spirited bunch but they too were ready to go! The heavy curtains muffled the sound but damn if they couldn't still hear it. "I sure am tired of sitting here all muzzled. This horn of mine is ready to blow." He peeled back the curtain a little bit "I am wondering if our friendly Mr. Cash lowered the ticket prices or if my lavish manager really did increase the advertising. I would not have expected this." and he closed it again. Yes, it was a veritable sea of people sitting in well tended seats whispering to themselves. Excitement, trepidation, some....worry. It all made sense and by the time the curtains finally parted he was sure they'd all have their minds set. He looked past Mr. Ward to the prop boys. The piano getting ready to be rolled out for the opening song. Its smooth surface and ivory keys. A feast for a feast. He could hear the hum in his head and feel another. It felt...stranger but what was what he thought it was? He was excited that much was clear. The desire to go out there and put on a good show was bounding through his body. He could see it now, if all went well, the emotions that might arise. It was a good night. The perfect venue for him as Mr. Ward said but for more than himself. He supposed that was all it was at that moment. Desire. He folded his hands behind his back. He was just as ready as the crowd was. That's all it was he was sure.

Prospect Junction is a good name

Decided to edit my post a bit, add a little life to the post and use the prompt even though I had already posted. I feel a bit better about it.

Alright placed down Kojo. First replies for a character are always a bit difficult.

The air was electrifying, and jovial. It was days like this would remind any performer be they vaudeville or melodrama, opera or realist that they were in it for a good reason. Back stage the hired hands were moving about nervous and prepared. The other musicians sat prepared with the instruments held closely to their form. These were men and women of undeniable skill, dedicated adherents of a craft that demanded untold hours of practice. Their manner of dress immaculate, clad in evening coats of darkest black and brilliant and dresses of brilliant white. All sorts, from all over getting the chance to shine on the stage for the people of this bustling town. What had brought all these souls to this place? This hall had never been so packed before. It saw no shortage of patrons but tonight? Tonight felt blessed and for whatever reason many people could guess. No doubt its proprietors were happy for after tonight their purses and vaults were going to be just a little more full. Excitement traveled through those who would be unseen as much as those whose names and faces might earn a spot in the memory of those sure to receive a grand show. Past the hustle and bustle of the preparers, in a little room was Kojo Amankona or as he was known to most...Carlo. That was the name that took precedent of course. Unnatural blue eyes moved over old sheets of music inked with incredible precision. A gentle hum filled the room in practiced flow. He had done this many times, but even he had to admit to be surprised at what he had seen when he had arrived. A packed hall like never before. He pondered, in brief moments, if this was Kirsa's doing or if he had forgotten some manner of celebration. It wasn't a doubt he'd ever voice aloud. It didn't matter. Kojo had done this before and even the doubts that constantly danced in the back of his head could never really drown out the pride and excitement he too felt. This was life. This was his life. He pulled those eyes upward to the mirror. Immaculate in its polish and lacking in the grim that often caked other mirrors to look himself over. Elegant. That was what this occasion demanded after all. He was the spitting image of a musician sporting a black 2 piece tailcoat or a Tuxedo as some had taken to calling it these days. Snow white Edwardian club collar shirt unmarred and without a single mark covered with a beautiful blue patterned kelton vest. Y back braces attached to his trousers and to top it all off a fine silk puff tie. It was all well fitted, well made, and by and large exactly what you'd expect a man of his potion to be wearing but...there were a few small additions. Kojo had forgone the collapsible tophats most others tended to sport and instead was sporting his stetson that clashed. Kojo was certainly missing his gun belt a little but well they weren't welcome in establishments like this. Not something needed for this classy little affair. Trouble would likely be dealt with by the bastards they called lawmen in this town. His white gloves did hand from his pocket for a moment as he thumbed the sheets. Confidence. He knew these like the back of his hand anyway. He had written them after all. It was time to put all that practice to the test or well...almost time. He gently shuffled them back into perfect order before heading out from the room and making his way past the oncoming stagehands. The click of his lace-up boots on the wooden floors sounding as he moved with purpose through the narrow passages careful himself. He smiled and exchanged brief words with the people however, not in falsehood but rather genuine. He regarded those he was working with respectfully even if some of them didn't quite return the favor. He was used to that. He topped over by the others the men and women who would help him bring this performance to life 12 in total though not all of them would be on stage at the same time. He smiled to them "Big show tonight." very deep tones, a rumbling voice but filled with a light hope. His accent a mix of his southern drawl and his German upbringing. He looked them over a mixture of bright-eyed excitement and nervousness. He knew the feeling well. "Are ya nervous Mr. Amankona?" one of the younger ladies spoke up, holding a violin upon her gentle cradled and even under the weight of that supremely gaudy white dress one could see the shake of her leg. Kojo chuckled gently and looked out past the curtain just steps away "Always." he confessed without hesitation. He wasn't new to this but he had the view that anyone not nervous on days like this lacked some fundamental innocence. He was far into this life, he felt, but he tried to hold onto such notions. He would smile at the young lady "Means you feel it. You've got a lot of people to impress a memory upon tonight. Big wigs and little sorts who have either been to many shows and been to none. I can't help but be a little nervous." "Well if our distinguished centerpiece is nervous I reckon we can't blame the young folk for it too!" an older gentleman spoke up with more excitement where an unlit pipe had been resting between his teeth mere moments before. His hand rested upon the large and imposing Violin De Gamba that would shake the hearts tonight with others. He had worked with Carlo before and truthfully he'd never seen such a crowd. He had seen many things...but never this amount. Who would have thought it for this growing town? How many of these people even really appreciated what went on in these walls? "Ha! Too true Mister Schift, but we've all got hearts. Surely all of you are more than ready to give these fine folks a time they'll remember many nights from now." he moved over to the racks that held his instruments nearly arranged from your standard violin to a guitar sporting those new steel strings. Rare instruments and common. Kojo was a very versatile sort of musician so he always had plenty of instruments to pick from when it came to these shows...if he ever used them. Humble and proud ones. Maintaining them all could be more trouble than it was worth. Gearhart repairs was contracted for the maintenance of their steam organ. Their beautiful Calliope which would add something real special for the night. Expensive but no doubt worth it. Damn if he didn't want to offer these people a show they'd never forget. Secure in their presence he sat by. He was sure it would be a good show. A grand show. "How many people have stepped in here tonight you reckon?" another gentleman, a horn player. "Shit...as many could afford the damn ticket and didn't blow it up at that casino!" "Now Mistah Tailor you know damn well you have every plan to do that after!" a good laugh shared between them. A subtle throbbing at the back of Kojo's head. A pleased reaction but not nearly enough. "Too true! You think if we do good that ol' Mister Edmund will spare us a few drinks?" Now that was a question. Surely the venerable Sir Blackwood was in the crowds too. "Tch. If he notices us." "Who else would he be here for?" Kojo's eyes snapped back to them, dragged from his other focus and to them. The younger ones looked a little surprised but the more experienced players had subtle smiles. One even rolled their eyes knowing was was approaching. "You're the main star of tonight ain't ya?" "Just a piece in things. Their eyes are gonna fall on you even more than they will me to see what bright young stars might rise." he moved closer to one "Every performance is a chance for something new. My name might be written on the programs but so are yours. You've all got a chance to shine, and a chance to fail. Those who know how these things work are attuned enough to listen for those flourishes, those strong blows, that spirit. Don't think just because you might not have a solo tonight that you aren't gonna impress." he said patting a young woman on the back gently before he moved away. "Sure you're right Mister Amankona. You better do good tonight too! I managed to tear my husband away from his gambling table tonight and he's holding a table. The old fool is expecting a real experience to beat that rare full hand." an older woman, another violinist. She hadn't played for this type of crowd either but she spoke with all the confidence of someone who had. Kirsa really did help with connections to talent. He had no doubt he was watching too. Would she get what she wanted tonight? Kojo couldn't help but laugh "I'll certainly do my best." and with that he began to hand out the sheets. They had their own but he had something to do "Write your names and circle your favorite parts of the piece. A little message of good luck for the next." "Ah there it is." and the pencils were produced and passed out. Kojo moved over to the curtains while he waited for the others to do what they needed. There was so much life he could heart. He would peek out now and then to admire things. It was going to be a good night. The hum in the back of his head told him it would a good night. It certainly needed it to be just as much as Kojo did. He would look back only when the papers made his way back to him...all marked up with the names of the people. He smiled at them "Good. I hope you're all feeling it. This sort of things is gonna be sought after by music lovers the world over one day and now your names and your hopes are on it. Remember that." we winked to them. He had done his good luck rituals and his heart was at peace. He looked out once again while they all went to talk again while he was left alone with his thoughts and that waiting hum. He remained hidden behind the curtain but just enough to see all those people. Waiting. All that life. His hopes were on those sheets too. He would stand, leaning upon the wall just out of sight of all but the most keen eyes. His arms crossed as those strange blue eyes stared at the sea of life behind him. He was ready to preform. That was what he was always waiting for. That was his life.

Well damn lol here I was on the drive home getting ready to be patient and BOOM

Yep he sounds like a downright bastard. Perfect!

Woohoo! My excitement is riding high right now.

I'd say the updates are nice. Builds anticipation.

Oooh I like that especially the value statement. Very accurate to the voice I had in my head while putting her down. Can't wait to see the rest of it and what the other Features will be like.

Perfect! Excited to see what all you do with her and the others.

Alright fixed on my end as well she's back down to resources.

Got it I did kinda realized that a bit ago so edited but good to know for clarification. I've bumped The Blue Hour Lady up for now while we wait for clarification.

Went ahead and edited it just in case though.

@IsabellaRose I think Kojo is the only person connected to "The Blue Hour Lady" right now actually because Magnificent shifted his relationship from her to to Judge Holland Buck. Otherwise everything else looks perfect.

I agree, I've been loving set-up greatly but I'm sure what comes next will be just as wonderful. Kojo's Identity will be...The Champion more in line with his chosen motivation and story. He might be a font for an ancient deity but he's thinking of the people while trying to find a way to deal with his particular situation. His past gives him a tacit understanding of how easy it is for easy people to fall into what they don't understand, forced to play into the hands of things they cannot fight. His affliction has to stop with him and with any luck won't fall into the hands of those who would use it for evil...he just has to recognize who it is first. As such I stepped up The Other Theory to D12 and unlocked Lingering Echo as the third chosen sfx. @IsabellaRose It did ask for another [new] ability or to up one but since The Other Theory was already at d12 I didn't know if I could take it further or if D12 is the max we're meant to stick with. I put up The Other Body, and short of took shapeshifting to base it off of. I figured we could maybe use a little more body horror. I stepped up the relationship with Joshua Thane since the description feels like it demands more than a D4. I then connected Kirsa to Adelaide as "Her Delusions may be a useful tool" as she sees the woman as ripe for manipulation through whatever form that takes that might work. That schemers hands extend far and wide. Already labeled arrows. Not shifting anything. Kojo would possibly be practicing on a Tuesday, either at the hall or somewhere else. He might also be in a meeting with Kirsa at the time, discussing their next show or other business affairs maybe even walking around speaking with the people. He'd be happily talking to just about anyone though in that event be it another Lead or anyone else maybe playing on a small corner even if thats "beneath" him to do. I'm pretty excited for see what drama kicks off with the more trouble prone members of this troupe especially given some of these features look ripe to cause it. I'm definitely down to explore the weird and mystical...probably why I built it up a bit much but I do imagine that'd be pretty fun.

Fairly simple step this time. I've gone with motivation The Innocent for Kojo; given his past Kojo knows how cruel the world can be and given his present he's aware how easy it is to fall into clutches of things you don't understand. He is, ultimately, a man of the people despite his situation much of the time when has to strike a man down its not for his own benefit. Perhaps he's a bit naive and its distracting but he can't possibly ignore people in need. Stepped up Justice to D8 Stepped up relationship with Edmund to D6 no change in statement. Connected Willis Sloan to Alicia as "Wants her gone." because he believes in the rumors about her being a vampire and frankly? That's not good for business.

Alright lets see if I did this right: for Kojo's Modus Operandi; Given the nature of The Other Theory and its importance in Kojo's life I've gone with The Arcane Hand. Passion has been stepped up to D6 The Other Theory is also now D10. Kirsa has been stepped up to D12 and the relationship has been changed to "She refuses to let me go." because a loyal cultist would hold onto an asset with an iron grip. If I read the instructions right we were supposed to do two things so firstly; I've introduced 2d4 The Golden Seven Church (Religion, Influence) - Unassuming. Small. It is simple wood and lacking in flair. It is a collection of polished pews, and small artifacts that tell of a proud legacy of faith. Its old, cracked bell rings twice to beckon believers and its doors remain open for those in need. The only notable thing is the cross on the wall...made of the same material that has caused a town to boom. The Seven Names Church is so often found where it is needed. It welcomes in the needy of all sorts. It greets with open arms the weary gunfighter, and the bandit. It does not turn away the whore, the hunter, or the thief. It welcomes in all...so long as they are willing to listen and accept grace. They will even advocate for those in need. They only ask that you listen and the doors to the sanctuary and kept wide open. Of course there are those outside of the church who will tell you...its a ploy. Kindness is weaponized in those walls and wielded to get whatever they need. The Seven Names Church only opens its doors to assets, and people its priests and sisters believe they can tame. The simple box that is the church is a place where people are broken...sometimes you can hear the screams. The substances they proclaim as part of their faith is used to break down the strongest of people and turn them into obedient sorts. They're not so humble, their riches are just hidden....only for the deserving. You can see the glint sometimes. This church popping up means that they've laid eyes on profit And anyone who would stand in their way will be tamed, or dealt with. A bit of a threat to Kojo (or anyone else) I've also connected Joshua Thane to Jane Montgomery as "Arranged to Marry" though I'm more than willing to change that if its too much. Two members of a wealthy family. It wasn't uncommon for marriage to be arranged for financial and strategic reasons. Seems like it'd be interesting to deal within.

https://miro.com/app/board/uXjVJJ3q-kY=/

Shame you can't be with us Dreams, Ramona seemed like she'd be a very fun character. I hope everything you have going on gets sorted out fine and we end up in another game or something together one day once you can and hope you do enjoy following this game at least.

Stepped up Millicent Gearhart to D6 instead then