Saturday 15 June 2075 1003 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson walks into the kitchen from the alley and looks you up and down. He gives no clue what his impression is, but he does nod at you. "Pretty sure I was not followed. We good here to talk?"

Once Jameson entered Annex closed the door. Stepping back he paced away until he was halfway between the interior and exterior doors, with his frame interposed between the other man and the interior door that lead out of the kitchen and into the main room.

"Here, or the cellar if you prefer. It is just the staff in the other room and they should not intrude unless some emergency arises. What is it that you wanted to speak with me about?"

Saturday 15 June 2075 1003 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson watches as you position yourself. He looks at the door behind him and turns back to you. "I think I would prefer right here, since you offer that as an option." He pulls out a pack of cigarettes and holds it up. "Is it alright if I smoke? Would you want one?"

A single nod of acceptance was given when the man voiced his preference to hold their meeting in the kitchen with the exit easily accessible. Something that was purposefully presented when Annex maneuvered to his current position. Annex scrutinized the smoking habit that Jameson revealed more than most people would. Internally, not overtly. The timing with their meeting offered a socio-psychological que indicating stress or worry. Or it could.

"I do not partake. You are welcome to though."

He observed Jameson patiently with polite expectation. Allowing the man to take his time without any pressure beyond visible interest in what the mercenary had to say.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1005 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


The man taps a cigarette from the pack and lights it with a silver lighter, taking two drags on it before speaking. his voice is accented, perhaps eastern European? "It is good that you agree to see me. Thank you. I have recently taken a short time job with a gang here. They are few in number and I was recommended to them as a person who could help against other gang. I then watch as you come to neighborhood. Very calm, very sure of self. But you did not hire to a gang, but to this brothel. The two gangs are nervous of you and they talk of you so I came in to see if I agree with their words." He pauses to take a couple of drags on his cigarette and waits to see if you have any comments.

He listened to what the cat eyed mercenary had to say without interjection. As he listened to the man, he also listened to his environment and coms. Annex was mindful of delay and distraction tactics that could be employed to keep his attention here and off of his ward Willow. Which made him cautious of Jameson's drawn out commentary. What he said about the gangs being nervous and talking about him was notable. No doubt paying attention to what he did as well. These things could be used to his advantage, or act as a hindrance depending on how they were approached.

Jameson's pause to allow him to comment was met with an initial prolonged silence. Finally Annex provided leading statements. Prompting the other man to continue without expressing any notable emotion concerning what had been said so far. He remained stoic and calm. Relaxed but alert. Assured in his own abilities without arrogance.

"Now you are here again. Speaking to me in private. Without the knowledge of your current employer, it would seem."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1006 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson frowns as he smokes the last of his cigarette. He is apparently considering your words as he field strips the butt and puts the remains in his pocket. "I no longer care much of what they think or what they know of my movements. I recognized you as a professional right away and had hoped that you would see that in me as well. I am man of honor and would not entertain another offer, or even discuss the subject while I am still employed elsewhere. I said that the contract was for short time; it expired last night at midnight. I come to see if you can make offer. If not, I leave area for better place."

Annex took note of Jameson's choice in words. he had reiterated that his work for the Smoking Guns was short term. He had stated he was contracted to assist in dealing with their rival and now stated that the contract had been concluded as of midnight. That could mean the Lightning Strikes had been dealt a blow, or possibly that the working relationship Jameson had with the Smoking Guns was spoiled somehow. He thought about it briefly before responding to what the mercenary had said about his personal sense of honor and professionalism.

"Good."

Just the one word. But there was some approval in it. Annex could appreciate the qualities that Jameson had ascribed to himself. There was a pause as he considered what was said next. About Jameson coming to him to see if Annex had a job offer for him. Interesting that he would ask to meet with Annex and not willow. Professional courtesy? Perhaps.

"I had hoped this was the reason you wanted to speak with me. Willow may be expanding her business in the near future. This extends to security concerns. She would like to speak with you about contracting your services. Likely for the long term. There are financial limitations, however. Do not expect an offer at the full value of your skillset. Unless you place a high value on a discount of the brothel's services."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1007 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson looks at you for a few moments. "Perhaps I was mistaken. Are you not empowered to negotiate for services?"

The Willow Tree had no notable security budget that he was aware of and it was only his third day on the job. Where some might have taken the query as a jab to their pride, Annex took it in stride.

"Finances are not my purview. You will need to discuss monetary matters with Willow herself. If you are not opposed to it, I will invite her to join us."

He waited for Jameson to respond. As long as he had no qualms about it, Annex then contacted Willow audibly over his comlink so that the man standing across from him could hear what he said as he asked Willow to join them in the kitchen.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1007 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson nods and waits for you to ask Willow in. His eyes have focused on you while you talked, but they are drawn to Willow when she enters the kitchen. Willow looks to you with a question. "Yes, Oliver, what is it? Good day to you, Mr. Jameson."

Unless Willow came along side him, so that he would not have to turn to look at her, his gaze remained forward monitoring Jameson. Otherwise he could shift his eyes to the woman as he spoke while keeping the other man within his peripheral vision. Either way, once he was finished speaking his eyes moved back to the mercenary.

"Mr. Jameson's previous contract has concluded. He has come to see if you are able to make an offer for his services."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1007 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow moves up next to you, but does not get in front of you. "Is that right? What services do you offer Mister Jameson? And at what price?"

The man looks from you to Willow and nods. "Yes. My current contract has expired and I have decided to not let it renew. I have skills that could come in handy if you are attacked, but I am really very good at preemptive strikes. I also have skills in security systems."

Willow nods her head but does not smile. "So, an assassin."

Jameson shakes his head. "Assassin has a negative connotation. What I do is eliminate trouble before it can get worse. You can call it what you like, but the bottom line is that I get the job done with no friendly casualties."

Willow turns to you. "What do you think, Oliver?"

After Jameson provided a vague outline of his talents Annex was already considering ways to put him to use if he became an asset of Willow's. When Willow asked for his thoughts on the subject of hiring the man with cat eyes, Annex's own stormy grey spheres shifted to the Asian woman as his side. When he spoke to her he maintained the same volume of voice, not hiding his words from the other man even as he projected his voice at his employer.

"I would not recommend hiring him strictly as brothel security. Mr. Jameson's skills would be of best use as force projection, solving problems outside the Willow Tree itself, rather than security. Something that would become increasingly necessary if you chose to expand your business interests. Should you find the price of his services are reasonable, I believe he can be put to constructive use beyond target termination whether the contract is short or long term."

There was a brief pause to let Willow consider what he had said. But Annex was not done speaking. After a moment to absorb the assessment was given he slide his gaze between the two of them, brothel owner and mercenary, and spoke to them both now.

"Perhaps an initial trial period would serve both parties. One week. After which if both of you are amenable and wish to continue working together in the long term, a standard salary could be negotiated."

One week. It was a tactical option he had meant to provide Willow. Not a full commitment initially, but a short term edge that might allow her to oust the minor gangs in the neighborhood and increase her own financial standing. A week should give her time to sell any drugs she had acquired on Monday. Then she would have more money to hire on Jameson long term. If she were savy, and Jameson willing, she might even be able to negotiate a discount during that one week.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1012 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow takes a couple of minutes to absorb and process what you have told her then turns to you. "Would you consider my potential new employee a risk to me right now? I would like to take him to my office to negotiate the trial week."

Annex considered Willow's question already. A person of Jameson's skills was always going to be a potential danger. Honorable or not. Loyal or not. All it took was one twist of outside manipulation or feeling slighted to make someone into an antagonist. But now? There were no strong indicators that Willow was a target for him. His response came in an even neutral tone. There was no trust nor overconfidence. Only observation.

"I do not believe he intends to do you harm."

After speaking to Willow he looked back to Jameson. He acknowledged the man's likely skill without praising it and he warned without possessing a threatening tone or bearing. What he said, was.

"I will not bother searching you for weapons. A person of your trade should be able to conceal what they need. However, I will be nearby while you hold your negotiations and there is only one way out of that office."

Perhaps the assurance of his presence was for Willow as much as it was Jameson. There was quiet from Annex after that. He turned and raised a hand, motioning to the door with it. He did not move further though, allowing the others to go ahead of him.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1012 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson nods and follows Willow out the door and out into the main room of the club. The girls in the room watched the procession as Willow leads you to her small office just off the main floor. Opening the door, she ushers Jameson inside and follows him in, closing the door after her. Cleo, the short red headed girl comes up to you and whispers. "What is he doing here?"

He followed the two of them to the door, then stopped outside where he took station. Out of the way, and indirect of the doorway. When Cleo approached his stormy gray eyes moved to her. Annex had a way of looking at someone. No matter their height difference he never seemed to have to look up or down at them. As if no one stood taller in his gaze, and no one was beneath it. Annex seemed ready for inquiries into Jameson's presence, as there was only a slight delay before he responded.

"You may ask him yourself after Willow is finished speaking with him."

Then, to ward off further questioning or discussion on the matter he offered Cleo a task. It had a purpose beyond busy work, but he did not reveal that purpose.

"Would you please get me a small plastic bag filled with flour."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1013 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Cleo gives you an odd look but shrugs her shoulders and nods. She heads off to the kitchen and returns in a couple of minutes with a small sack of flour and gives it to you.

His eyes shifted to the sack in Cleo's hands when she returned. It was bigger than he intended. A little ziplock baggie would have been enough. Annex did not complain though. Taking the item from her he set it down within easy reach. No revelations were granted. No shared intent for the flour if Cleo was expecting some immediate action to be taken with it.

"Thank you."

Was all he said. Then, if she remained, Annex gave her a look that suggested she should not be lingering outside Willow's office while the boss woman was having a meeting.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1015 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Cleo takes the hint the first time and leaves, giving you a pretty smile and a flip of her skirt that causes it to rise a few inches up an already mostly exposed leg as she turns to go back to the table she was sharing with two other girls. You can hear a muffled conversation through the door, but cannot really make out any of the words. The short chat seems to drag on a bit.

Annex maintained his sentry patiently. He could eat later. Though the conversation was muffled by barriers, he was not listening for words. No, Annex was listening for tone. Sound of distress or conflict. That emotion and action translated easier than complete and complicated language. At least when there was a wall between you and the people you were listening to. Annex was mindful of the time as well. Willow and he were supposed to meet with doctor Hayes before the brothel opened as well.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1030 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


You can hear chairs scrape on the floor inside the room and steps coming to the door. It opens and the two come into the main room, Willow still talking. "We have some rooms still empty on the second floor and I will have someone show you one. Why don't you get acquainted better with Oliver while I set things up. Remember that I did say that he will be your boss here if you stay on." She smiles at you as she passes by. "Now, play nice boys.:

She goes a couple of feet and turns. "Oliver, where were we supposed to meet with Doc?"

At some point Annex asked Sevras to get him something to eat so that he would not have to leave his post to fix food for himself. As was the norm for Drevin, he ate quickly. Soiled dished were set aside and he was finished with his meal before Willow and Jameson exited from the office. By then he was standing once more. Ready to spring into action with loose and relaxed limbs. His eyes followed the pair as the moved, continuing on with Willow while she spoke. Her question received a ready response, as though he was prepared to remind her.

"We were going to meet doctor Hayes at his clinic."

He waited after that, giving Willow the opportunity to say more before she departed. Then his eyes swung over to Jameson.

"Would you like something to eat or drink?"

Saturday 15 June 2075 1030 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow smiles at you. "Thank you, Oliver. I can be very forgetful at times. I will leave you two together while I see to the room."

As she walks away, she looks over her shoulder at you. "I should be ready in about ten."

Jameson is looking at you when you turn around to look at him. "So, I was told you are the boss I report to. Anything you need me to do after I move my stuff in?"

When the offer of food and drink were ignored Annex did not seem put off. He instead took it as an invoiced 'no', and gestured to a chair at a nearby table. He himself pulled out a chair opposite from it and seated himself. A short time was given to allow Jameson to take seat. If he did not, Annex did not appear put off. But neither did he crane his neck or adjust the level of his gaze. Or seem to need to.

"Nothing immediately. After Willow and I leave, I encourage you to touch bases with the staff. By the time the Willow Tree opens I should have an assignment for you."

There was a pause as Annex studied Jameson. Not a superficial look over, but a thoughtful analysis of something beneath the surface.

"You have been here a week longer than I have. I would like to hear your assessment of the area and potential threats to Willow and her business."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1030 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson nods and takes a seat at the table opposite you. "Thanks. I would say yes to some food, but I had the feeling that I would be moving again before I had a chance to enjoy it. And threats? Yeah, some. The Lightning Strikes will not be a problem, but the Smoking Guns are going to be unhappy. I have also noticed a guy sniffing about. Smells like a syndicate rep to me but he was not Oriental, so maybe Mafia?"

Annex seemed to expect the comment about the Smoking Guns. Given their reaction the previous night it seemed likely. Jameson's observation about the syndicate member in the area was something he thought about for a bit before speaking again.

"The Smoking Guns did seem possessive of you. The other night your mere visit provoked concern in them that you were being courted. You must have made quite an impression on them."

A pause was given at that point, allowing Jameson to comment on the subject if he wanted to. The Annex went on, giving the man an idea of something they were working towards.

"Sooner rather than later both gangs will need to be dealt with if they do not kill each other off. It would be good to see the neighborhood free of gangs and organized crime. Or at least minimize their influence. That is in part why Willow and I are going to speak with doctor Hayes. We hope to enlist his aid in forming a community action group as a preventive measure and stepping stone to organizing the neighborhood."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1032 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson listens to you and nods a couple of times, even though his eyes rarely seem to stay looking in one place for long. "Like I said, you don't have to worry about the Lightning Strikes."

He nods again after you continue. "From what I see, Doc Hays is a solid sort of guy. His assistant is probably someone you want to get on your side. She's smart and knows how to use the monster hogleg she's carrying around. Wouldn't surprise me if she doesn't have some combat medic experience. I am not too sure about a community action group; it seems a good idea at first, but if someone comes in and starts shooting, it's going to be shop keepers and their kids who are going to die and that can sort of takes the steam out of their enthusiasm. My opinion."

A single nod of acknowledgement followed Jameson's statement about the Lightning Strikes not being a problem. He listened to what the man had observed and his sharing of an opinion on the community action group. Annex did not seem dissuaded, but neither was the cautionary remark ignored. It was something that had been repeated to him since he first shared his ideas. He did not need enthusiasm, though it helped. What he needed was commitment, determination, and discontent with the gangland overlord status quo. Annex's response was mild in tone, but imbued with subtle intent and purpose.

"That is an accurate observation. In order to effectively mount a defense against gangs you need both support from the community and a peacekeeping force."

There was quiet from Annex after that. Not a long or uncomfortable quiet. He merely did not appear to mind silence drawing out. There was no talking just to say something. Nor was he in a rush to speak. The man waited, thinking and observing, until something with meaning was asked or said.

"Have you had much experience with gangs or organized crime in the Seattle area?"

Saturday 15 June 2075 1034 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


While you are sitting at the table, you see three of the girls come in from outside, probably from the 'Shack down the block. All three stop when they see Jameson then begin talking among themselves as they move to the table with the girls playing cards.

Jameson also seems to notice the new arrivals but turns back to you and shrugs his shoulders. "Not much more than most people who live here, I would suspect. Know a bit about the Mafia, but never had much truck with the Orientals, like the Yaks or Triads. I try to stay far away from any Vory thugs, but I suppose that it is possible their meanness is more a rep thing than reality. Why?"

When the three women have returned from their outing Annex's eyes fell on them. He had watched their reaction to Jameson's presence, then shifted his attention to the mercenary and studied the way he responded to the chattering prostitutes.

"I am not looking for details into your personal life. Knowledge and experience are as useful as a developed skill. It is good for me to know what you have at your disposal beyond your primary skillset."

Annex's response to the 'why' question was simple and without subterfuge. Jameson was an asset and he wanted to make sure to respect his limitations as well as put his skills to their best use. With the question answered Annex did not linger on the topic, but moved on.

"Is it fair to say that the staff and your messenger are the only ones who know you are here? It would be advantageous if the Smoking Guns were to think you left the area rather than moved in here under Willow's employ. At least for a day or so."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1036 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson nods. "I am pretty sure that they don't know I am here, but keeping that a secret will be hard unless I stay in my room during business hours."

Annex appeared to have anticipated the comment about Jameson hiding around in his room to remain undetected and prevent the spread of knowledge concerning his employment at the Willow Tree. His response was primed and ready like a marksman leading is target.

"There may be some work for you to do outside the neighborhood. That would keep you out of sight. I want to run it by Willow first though."

There was a moment of quiet from Annex as he looked to the women playing cards. He looked to be in thought. Scrutinizing something distant, rather that a man looking a pretty women.

"Should you stay on past the initial week, be aware that there are regular physicals for the staff. Doctor Hayes' assistant comes by once a week to see to it."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1036 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Jameson looks a bit surprised. "Really? I am not sure why I would need a physical that often and I am surprised that Willow does the girls that often. I guess I can see it to make sure that they are disease free, but every week? That seems a bit extreme."

He gauged Jameson's reaction to the shared information and wondered if he realized it was with this same regularity that parolees with a drug history were tested for intoxicants. Did Willow? Annex mused on that briefly before responding with an unbroken neutral demeanor. Whatever his feelings were on the topic, they remained unshared.

"It may also have to do with testing for drugs in a drug-rich environment. You also never know when one of your employees has been unwittingly tagged with a subdermal recording device until you check."

There was a brief paused before he went on to add ...

"If you have any concerns, you should bring them up with you discuss renewing your contract with Willow."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1036 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


He nods at your explanation. "Yeah, OK, I can see how that sort of information and care would be nice in a job like this. Funny, though, I do not know of any other strip clubs or bordellos that go to that detail. She is either very paranoid or cares a lot about her girls. Either way is fine by me."

He looks around and nods his head at Willow, who is approaching the table with Ginger in tow. "Mister Jameson, this is Ginger. I think you met last night. She will show you around the place and let you know where you are rooming. Let me know if you have any problems with the room."

The man nods and stands up to follow Ginger to the stairs. Willow waits until they have disappeared upstairs before looking back at you. "He was not kidding. The Lightning Strikes are not going to be a problem because they are all dead. Someone shot all of them. No KE presence in the neighborhood so no official investigation."

Initially Annex remained seated. Watching Willow as she and Ginger approach. Then observing the departure of Ginger and Jameson. When they were gone and Willow began speaking with his he rose to his feet. Smooth and steady. He wasn't surprised by the demise of the gang. Jameson have alluded to as much. Though the only real target was their leader. The others would have been dispersed without his charisma and experience. Or, if one were smart, constricted. When he spoke his eyes were on Willow.

"We should move against the Smoking Guns quickly. As of yet they are unaware of your hiring Jameson ... and Samantha may be willing to assist in the endeavor."

There was a brief pause to let Willow absorb the gravity of that. The fact it was on her to order the deaths of human beings. A moment later he followed up on the mention of doctor Hayes' assistant.

"Speaking of Samantha, you may wish to ask for her assistance as a consultant on Monday. Having her present with the dealer to verify the quality of the product you purchase may help negotiations and ensure you are not cheated."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1037 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow nods her head then blanches a bit when she realizes what you have said. "You think I should tell him to kill the others, too? Do we need to go that far?"

Where Willow blanched, Annex showed resolve. It was a subtle infection determination. His words were spoke calmly and shaped logically. Pragmatic. Like the living voice of reason an advisor was often portrayed.

"The veterans need to die. They have an established history of violent crime and with their rival out of the way, will have better chances of recruiting others. There are also the issues they would have with you hiring Jameson and your entering the drug trade. Without their leadership and experience the other members of the gang should not pose a serious problem. They should be stripped of weapons and resources that could be used to continue the gang though."

Annex paused, giving Willow a chance to think on what he had said. Then some of his stoicism diminished and he raised a hand to rest on the woman's shoulder. As if that touch could lend her strength. That hand which was rough and calloused. Warm and strong, but whose grip was just shy of firm.

"This is about more than killing to remove a personal threat. If you use this right, you give the deaths of those men meaning, and you start something for the community to rally behind. It can be used to show that we are serious about the community action group, creating a peacekeeping force, and keeping gangs out of the neighborhood. It is the start of showing people that gangs will not be tolerated in this neighborhood and that people in it are willing to take action. That is why I advise sending not just Jameson, but Samantha, Talia, and myself as well. Dispersing the Smoking Guns should be the act of a group operating on behalf of the community. Not a lone hired assassin eliminating someone who posed a threat to you and your business. Then, you give resources confiscated to the community. Weapons can be saved for those volunteering to be part of the peacekeeping operation. Money, and money earned from any confiscated drugs or chips, can be given to the community action group itself."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1039 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow's face lets you know that she in certain yet, but she seems to be wavering. "Are we in danger of becoming the gang we are getting rid of?"

Doubt. Annex did not have much of that left in him. When he acted, he tried to be certain of his actions. His goals. It was not the first time he had seen it in someone else. Heard the question 'are we doing the right thing?'. Annex took Willow's doubt and reflected certainty back at her. His words were touched by a clarity of purpose and intent. An echo of the purpose he once held, anyway. Now he was a mercenary not unlike Jameson. But he didn't talk like one.

"This gang exploited their community and extorted it's people. The actions we have talked about are designed to make it safer and help improve it. Remember the reason for the harsh actions we may at times need to take are not for ourselves alone. They are a burden carried so others do not have to."

Saturday 15 June 2075 1039 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Willow nods. "I guess we just have to make sure we don't lose our way and become what we are removing. Are you ready to go see Sam?"

At Willow's new question he finally drew his hand back from her.

"Yes."

A simple response after all that talking he had done. Perhaps in answer to both statement and question. Before his hand came down to rest at his side he motioned to the door, then began walking at an long legged casual stride.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1040 Willow Tree Redmond Barrens Seattle


Stepping out onto the street, you are once again reminded of the differences between inside the Willow Tree and outside. The outside environment is certainly symbolic of the blight hitting this part of Seattle. Old buildings, many with cracks in the walls and windows broken, line the street and many of the people you see are wearing a look of being already defeated and waiting to be officially called dead. Willow points up the street to the left. "Doc Hays has an office just up there, about two blocks away. Should not take us long to get there."

Annex wasn't chivalrous, exiting the building ahead of Willow. Before she had joined his outside his eyes swept over the immediate area, searching for threats. Then as she came outside he was looking into the distance. Up and down buildings and dark shadows within alleyways. Willow pointed the way and Annex did not loiter, walking the route she had indicated, taking position on beside her on the right. So that he was closer to the road. As they walked he listened to the urban half life of the neighborhood. Watching people, assessing them, and assigning them threat levels without even thinking about it.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1045 Doc Hay's Office Redmond Barrens Seattle


Doc hays has an office a couple of blocks from the Willow Tree. You keep up a working scan of the people and places you pass but nothing triggers a warning. The street clinic operates from an old building that looks like it may fall down at any time. Parts of it may have as there are a couple of beams propping up portions of the outside wall. There is a metal grill over the window and a sign over the door indicates that the doctor is in at the present.

A small bell above the door signals your presence and you see a smallish waiting room inside, large enough to hold the five occupied chairs and a small table with an old cafpot on it. A counter at the far end of the room is staffed by a young woman who nods at you as you enter and motions for you to come forward. You see a curtained hallway past the counter that leads farther back. The girl lifts a tablet and looks at you expectantly. "Names, please. And may I ask the nature of your need to see the doctor?"

A low voice comes from just beyond the curtain as Samantha moves it aside to come into the waiting area. "I believe that they are here to see Doc, Margy. They should have an open appointment for Miss Willow and Mister Oliver."

The sexy voice certainly does not seem to match the very wicked Predator slung in a very nice shoulder rig. A good look lets you believe that the rig might just be custom made. Then the girl, Margy, apparently, nods. "Oh, yes, Samantha. I see it here. I will just check to see if....."

Sam interrupts the girl. "Not necessary, Margy. Doc already knows they are here." She looks at you and motions to the end of the counter. "Please come through here and I will see you to Doc Hays."

It was like seeing a community in a post-apocalyptic dark age. When he saw the clinic he could not help but wonder what had happened to cause it such distress. Time and neglect, or was the building wounded by some violent event? Just as he had exited the Willow Tree ahead of his charge, Annex entered the clinic ahead of her without a mind for gentlemanly behavior. Inside he quickly scanned the interior, marking the armed woman behind the counter before stepping aside to unbar Willow's passed into the building. At hearing Samantha's voice he looked to the curtains. Patiently he waited till the end of the exchange between women be moving to follow Samantha beyond the curtained veil.

Saturday 15 June 2075 1046 Doc Hay's Office Redmond Barrens Seattle


Samantha goes through the curtain and Margy holds it open for you and Willow to follow through. Samantha leads you down a s short hallway to a larger room with several beds, about a quarter of which are occupied. She keeps walking, stopping at the door to a small office. She knocks and you hear a muffled command to enter. Samantha opens the door and ushers both of you inside, letting you see an older man sitting at a small desk stacked with papers and a couple of small boxes. The man rises and comes around the desk to shake hands with Willow.

"Willow, dear. I heard that you wished to have a chat. Please sit and let's talk. Sorry young man, only have the one chair."

Annex swept his eyes over the patients as they walked through the room with beds. Not even trusting the potential that someone might feign illness in order to seize a tactical advantage. It was a possibility that he did not ignore. But neither did he paranoid linger on it to inspect them in great detail. In the doctor's office he stared at the papers for a moment. It was so odd and archaic. Wasteful as well. That it was still made for general record keeping and other mundane uses was baffling to him. Even if their was value in physical record keeping. Unperturbed by the lack of a chair for himself Annex offered his hand to the doctor after he finished shaking Willow's.

"Oliver."

That brief introduction was all he voiced for now. Annex was a stranger. An unknown. He decided to let Willow set the tone, and step in to speak if she made an opening for him to do so. She knew the doctor better, and likely how to handle him more so than Annex anyway.