No Reservations [Penguin, Open]

[Lola Marks]

Lola walked down the northern strip of Gotham City. You could tell she was fresh in town by what she wore. A breath taking long black dress with a ruffle at the bottom that came up close to her thigh in back. Red stilettos graced her feet to match the sequin ruby red string purse that hung over her arm. She was a woman of wealth and taste, and it showed with every confident step she took. The inner city wasn’t frightening to her, in fact it was everything she ever imagined. The bustling people, the loud cars, and Oh the shopping…The shopping.

It was her first night in Gotham City and for now she resided in a hotel until she was able to find a proper home. It would be different from the mansion she was used to, but it was time for a change of everything in her life. Her eyes fixated on a necklace that shined brightly through the display window of a jewelry shop on the corner. A beautiful diamond necklace that she instantly imagined gracing her neck…..Well….A change for almost everything. Controlling her urge to impulsively walk in and buy it she continue down the strip until she reached a corner with a stop light. She stopped and pressed the button impatiently to cross.

Everything in this city was new to her. She made sure she went to a city that she hadn’t heard much about so she could start completely fresh. This way she didn’t know anyone in the city, no one would have heard of her unless they really dug deep and she could have the adventure she desired. As these thoughts ran through her mind her eyes couldn’t help but jump to every light in absolute wonder. She may have been ignorant to the city’s history, but she would have everything she wanted and more soon enough. She had a good feeling about this place.

As she admired the city before her a man rushed up behind her and snatched her purse off her shoulder. She only stumbled for a second on her heels as the chain had snapped and only pulled her a short distance. She gracefully was able to catch and poise herself again. Fury came into her eyes as she watched the brutish thief run off with her money. She assumed she probably should have chased him down or at least yelled after him. Instead she saw a group of thugs across the street she was trying to cross and hurried to them as the sign changed.

Her pace was brisk each heel clicking quickly on the black street until she got to the other side. The three thugs that were talking to each other on the corner stopped to watch her in awe as she stood in front of them boldly. They looked like a brutish bunch, about the same type that would take her purse. A sweet smile came onto he face and she place her hand gently on the first ones shoulder. “Could you go chase down that man for me?” Lola asked in a breathy voice. The thug looked confused at first, looking up to see the man duck into one of the alleyways. “Keep the purse…” Her tone changed as her fingers slipped off his shoulder and turned her expression to cold and serious. She just hoped they beat him senseless.

With a forlorn sigh she began to walk away from the thugs as they ran after the man with her purse. A neon sign caught the glimmer of her eyes as she approached it. The Iceberg Lounge? Sounds like a fancy place. She could use a rest and a good meal, perhaps a cigarette and a dry martini? She took the several steps up toward the building and entered in. Her breath was almost taken away at how luxurious the place was. This was the living she craved, that she needed to be involved in. Walking up to the counter she gave the attendant a sweet smile before he asked her if she had a reservation. “No I don’t…But isn’t there something you can do?” Her lips turned slightly and a pout came over her face as if he was disappointing her.

The man didn’t seem to move from his position on not letting her through the rope. “Sorry Ma’am no Reservation…No entry.” Her eyes traveled about for a moment and her hands wavered at her sides as if she was about to give up and turn away. She caught sight of a plaque on the wall dedicated to a Mr. Oswald Cobblepot. He was important enough to put on the wall…perhaps he was the owner? “Oh…” Her voice turned soft. “That’s a shame…Mr. Cobblepot was so looking forward to seeing me again…I’d hate to have him be disappointed in you..” Her eyes turned back to him looking sorry for him. With that she turned on her heel to leave. “Wait!” the man stammered and unhooked the rope for her. “Ma’am I…I…Think the right table just opened up for you.” Carefully the man unhooked the rope and stood aside for another man to show her the way. Lola gave him a genuinely relieved smile. “Oh thank you…” She exaggerated through her breath and followed the man toward what looked like to be the VIP section.

She was helped into a large booth that was clearly meant for more than one but she took it just fine as it was. The whole place was wonderful, and the people were just her type. Since her purse was stolen she had no money and no way to pay…but that didn’t mean someone else wouldn’t pay for her. Waiting for a waiter to take her order she sat in her booth looking around the large lounge. She wasn’t sure why they had left her so quickly, but it only gave her more time to take in the sight.

“I’ll take it…”

[Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin]

Oswald loved the gamblers. Whoever had figured out parting the rich from their money was as simple as rolling a pair of dice had Oswald's thanks. He rarely gambled himself, a friendly game of cards with the rogues or business partners perhaps but betting thousands to see where a ball would land on a wheel seemed like a foolish waste of money to him, Oswald got his thrills elsewhere. Still, the tables in the club were a favourite mingling spot of his, not only could he subtly convince people to up the odds through drinks and the gentle pushing of buttons but he could practically count the money coming in. Oswald always won in the club, he didn't have to play, they only had to lose.

Grinning at the groans from around the roulette table the short beak nosed man was quite enjoying his evening. Business as usual around the club. Everything was running smoothly and Oswald had taken to socialising, treating his guests to his presence as he saw it and enjoying the high society he had earned his place in.

One of the waitresses came baring drinks for the guests but having been flagged down on the way by the man on the front counter she paused by Oswald and lowered her voice to pass on the message "Sir, a woman is here to see you" Oswald's grin remained though he looked a little curious "Really? I'm not expecting anyone. Who is she?" The waitress only shook her head and pointed out Lola at her booth on the far side of the room "Kevin on the desk didn't say"

Oswald squinted across the room through his monocle. Pretty young thing, beautiful even and she looked as if she was likely rich but he definitely didn't know her "Hmm, thank you my dear" he replied quietly to the waitress to dismiss her before he looked back to the gamblers and flashed another grin as he tipped his top hat at those he'd been talking to "Alas my friends it seems my attention has been demanded elsewhere but how fortunate the drinks have arrived to dull your disappointment" he laughed as if he thought they wouldn't miss him and most probably wouldn't but spirits were high and so were alcohol levels so a number laughed too before Oswald took his leave for the front desk.

Kevin at the counter started to worry as soon as he spotted Oswald coming over and he quickly straighten up, attempting his best impression of a competent employee and becoming slightly unnerved by the fact Oswald still seemed to be looking happy. It was often hard to tell with the boss, he could snap at a moments notice but he didn't tend to do so in public "Kevin isn't it?" Oswald questioned, worrying the man even more with the thought that the boss might actually know who he was as he quickly nodded "Yes, Mr. Cobblepot" Oswald gestured and his attention was turned to the woman he'd just let in "That woman, did she have a reservation...Or a name?" Kevin stumbled over the answer, he hadn't asked her name! Why hadn't he asked her name?! "She...no, sir...There wasn't a reservation...She said she knew you sir and.." Oswald nodded, apparently understandingly "And you didn't ask. Perhaps after your shift is finished we should have a little chat about your duties" Kevin was left to stumble over his words again but Oswald paid him no more attention as he walked away again, the fate of the man's job would probably depend on the whim of Oswald's mood later.

Oswald wasn't angry. Mildly annoyed with the man on the counter but he was in a good mood there were worse people he could have let in than beautiful, young women. Not that they couldn't still be dangerous to have around, Selina and Ivy come to mind, but he would simply have to speak to her himself and he had no problem with that, at the very worst if she was there to cause trouble she was on his turf and he would deal with her as he saw fit.

He stopped by Lola's table, going for an amused look though curiosity showed too "Apparently I am supposed to know you but I think I would remember such beauty" he spoke as he tipped his hat, charmingly and cheesy as usual. Perhaps he wouldn't be so happy if he knew of her lack of money but he needed to find out who she was and flattery worked on most people, besides Oswald's taste in waitresses alone showed he liked his women, even if they rarely liked anything but his money in return.

[Lola Marks]

Lola sat idly in her comfy oversized and round booth. She seemed quite content there though it would have been better with a waiter taking her order or a man giving her something to talk about. Her posture was primped and proper as she waited with her hands in her lap. She never noticed anyone else walking through or to the entrance. The doorman or anything he was doing wasn’t even a thought in her mind anymore. That bumbling fool couldn’t keep his jaw hinged long enough for him to ever cross her thoughts again.

She moved to the side slightly, running her fingers along the fabric of the booth to look for something. Her purse contained the two objects she needed to smoke, in this social club smoking seemed as if it was allowed. Her hand moved around for a moment before her head turned to look at the bare space beside her.

Right…

Her face curled with annoyance for just a second as she remembered her purse had been lifted from her by that thug that got away. She hoped that he got whatever was coming to him in the end. Her eyes peered around the room to try and find someone near her table. It wouldn’t be impossible to find someone that had cigarette’s on them, as long as they had an extended filter. She didn’t like having the substance so close to her lips; she would rather use the cleaner, sleeker, plastic alternative.

Lola’s attention was grabbed by a short and stubby looking man that walked into her view. The man walked up to her table and met her eyes with his own. The man was probably less than half of her height in heels. With a further look the man was wearing a very expensive tuxedo with the works, lapels, cuffs, matching bow tie, and shined shoes. Yes, she was sizing him up, but that was normal – she believed. After sizing him up by his appearance the short and study man suddenly became a very very tall man. Her brow rose as he spoke and her eyes widened at the realization.

This man was the one from the plaque she had read when she came in! What are the odds?...If it were polite to curse under her breath she might have but instead a genuine smile came onto her face and she pulled a strand of hair behind her ear. For a moment she shook her head slightly and seemed slightly confused but she covered it by gracefully extending her hand with a limped wrist in greeting. Of course she was expecting a kiss to it as it would be proper. His compliment caused her to turn her cheek and blush as she spoke. “Mr. Cobblepot? Well this is strange, I told the man at the front desk it would be a shame for you ‘not’ to meet me..” She shook he head and laughed, of course she’d throw him under the bus on this. “An honest mistake on his part” She added with a slight wave of her free hand. Of course it was his fault.

“But this couldn’t be a mistake.” Her eyes softened and lowered slightly, a flirtatious rogue on her cheeks. “My name is Lola Marks, Charmed.” She finished in greeting finally giving her name to him. This guy was loaded and she was sure of it. Every inch of him oozed class and demanded respect, how could she not become slightly flustered? The waiter came up finally to take their order, but he remained well out of the man’s way and looked like he had no intention of interrupting. Keeping her attention on Mr. Cobblepot, she pulled her hand back to being to fan herself and cross her legs making the fabric of her dress rise slightly, but not enough to be unflattering. “The temperature in here is certainly unique. I could go for a Goddess Elixir with a peeled burnt orange lacing the sides, shaken not stirred, very dry, with just a touch of olive.”

[Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin]

Officially smoking was not allowed in the club but no one was ever going to tell Oswald he couldn't smoke in his own club and if he chose to he wasn't going to stop anyone else doing so. It was all about maintaining an atmosphere, like they were skirting the law when really it generally wasn't considered worth the trouble enforcing something so minor when Ozzy had a history for making cases disappear or end up thrown out, the police were more interested in getting Cobblepot for something more serious.

Oswald had been cutting back though. There are some situations where the urge to smoke was stronger, predominately during criminal activities but the smell of cigarettes on the air in the club didn't exactly help. His use of the filters largely depended on how much he really needed a cigarette these days and of course the sort of company he's in. For now both cigarettes and filters were safely in his pocket but he certainly bares the mark of a man who smokes, even if he's rich enough to remove the more unappealing signs.

He began sizing her up the moment he saw her. Obviously rich, probably a refined upbringing by the way she sat. Her reaction to him of course makes him smile. He knows that look well, the one where someone goes from wondering who this short little man is to realising just how much money he must have. Some may not find that so flattering but honestly most of the women he's dated had a similar look the first time they met him. His money was a way to get what he wanted, that didn't mean they actually stood any chance of getting anywhere near it.

Clearly she was impressed by what she saw, the fact that it was Oswald's clothes was of little concern to him. The umbrella indoors might be seen as an odd addition and no one ever wears a top hat and monocle anymore but when you have that much money people just consider such fashion choices as eccentric and much of Gotham had gotten used to it.

Of course then she spoke and it was his turn to be impressed. There's only so many bimbos who could barely spell intelligence one can take, lovely to look at but infuriating to spend any time with. This woman though had a brain and a quick tongue to go with it. Oswald chuckled at the apparent trick played on the man at the desk as he naturally placed a kiss on her hand, the move practically confirming her class "Perhaps it was wise that I did meet with you then, you don't disappoint" No one cares about Kevin on the counter.

"Oswald Cobblepot" he introduces himself in return even if she clearly already knows who he is "Please, call me Oswald. The pleasure is all mine. May I?" he questions with a gesture to the seat across the table, going to slide into it if she doesn't reject the request. He barely notices the waiter, just seems to know he's there and beckons him forward without looking "A scotch and the lady's drink" another hand gesture and he sends the man off again as he smiles at Lola once more "I can have the temperature adjusted if you would prefer" He had the power to and he'd do it just to show off the fact that it was his club. He liked this one, smart, beautiful, classy, she showed respect and clearly didn't seem to be repulsed of course it'd all be fake, everyone was but that was life. He was never going to find a rich, bird loving, attractive, young, intelligent women with a thing for short guys and funny noses but his money could bring in four out of seven, good enough.

[agape]

Sitting alone in one of the corner booths, alone and away from the rest of the crowd sat the classic unassuming man that no one would pay attention to. Arnold Wesker was a socially awkward individual who spoke with a stutter. Standing only 5'5 was shorter then the average male and his Burlington Coat Factory type suit is not something that would draw the attention of a crowd.

Roughly 99% of the people would not be paying attention to Mr. Wesker if he were alone, but he was not. Sitting beside him at the booth was a wooden mannequin dressed in a blue tailored Armani pinstrip with matching fedora. The eyes on the doll were wide and psychotic with a pointed nose just shorter then a wood pecker.

The pair sat quietly at the booth, away from the VIP section until a beautiful woman with dark ravenous hair made her way across the marble floors of the restaurant. She had not been in the place more then 10 minutes when suddenly the owner and Most important VIP entered the scene.

"Is that him Mister Scarface?" Asked the unassuming It.


"Yep. Dat's 'Him. De man known as the Penguin."

A slight nod and a sip of the Coke was the only response from the It.

The other patrons, waiters, and staff made a effort to avoid their table, and the guests who were being showed to adjacent seats requested to be placed elsewhere with disdain.

"Sh--sh--should we approach him? I me---me--mean he looks rather busy tonight." stuttered the Ventriloquist.

The Mannequin let out a frustrated sigh.

"Of c-wourse! Dat's why we came out all this way! To speak to Mistah Co'gglepot!"

Scarface swung his arm around to smack the Ventriloquist. Of course those who were watching would see that the Ventriloquist actually controlled the Mannequin to smack Itself.

The Ventriloquist provided a meek nod and cleared It's throat.

The pair got up from their seat. The Ventriloquist was adorned in large brown clog shoes with a tan tweed jacket with professor patches at the elbows over a red button shirt. It was also wearing matching pants.

"Remem'ger, let me do da talkiing!" Scarface exclaimed as they made their way up to the VIP center.

When they finally made it to the Penguin and the woman's vicinity, they paused before The Ventriloquist cleared the throat.

"Ahem."

"Excuse us Mistah Coggle'pot, my name is Scarface and this is my associate. Would it be possi'gle to 'ave a word with ya? Regarding some g'usiness."

[Lola Marks]

This at a first glance, bulkish man was certainly a charmer. It felt good to get that kind of attention again after everything that had happened. She did deserve to be flirted with and happy like the rest of the girls her age. Lola gracefully took back her hand after it was kissed; a slight blush still remained on her cheeks. When he finally properly introduced himself there was no doubt in her mind that this place belonged to him, or at least he had a large share in it.

Bearing that in mind she nodded and smiled “Please do.” With a dip over her hand she motioned to the booth around her and adjusted herself so that she could sit directly across and in front of him. When he motioned the waiter she saw him jump to his demands and scurry off to get their drinks. Hers was so specific, she had such elaborate taste, and hopefully they would make it correctly. The way things were heating up right now she could use one. Another charming, flirtatious statement left his lips and she couldn’t help but offer the same attitude in return. “Tempting…but a lady always finishes her drink first.”

Lola was just about to ask Oswald more about what he did here but a man approached there table….If that’s what you could call it. Her first thoughts were rather disgusted, that same face that most women would have made to Oswald – but not her. This man was on a totally opposite scale of creepy. She rose a brow as he interrupted and began to talk to Oswald in such a brutish manner. To make matters worse he was talking through that unnerving doll. She was unimpressed to say the least. Ventriloquism was almost at the very bottom of her muse in entertainment…it never made any decent money either.

Regardless of his presence she kept her poise and simply smiled at him after expressing her initial distaste for him. Perhaps he knew Oswald on a personal level, and although he was a bit off she didn’t want to judge him right off the bat. Although in her mind she had already…”Your friend?” She asked Oswald and held out his wrist to the strange ventriloquist. She handed it to him instead of the doll, really hoping her wouldn’t touch her with it. Something about that doll made her nervous, and she would rather avoid it all together. If Oswald indeed knew this man she would remain polite and courteous. She couldn’t help but wonder what the man meant by business. Just what kind of business was this man involved in? He seemed to be very important..

[Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin]

She was sitting with Oswald, the bar staff would get both their drinks correct as if their jobs depended on it. Oswald might not fire someone the first time they did that realistically but it was unwise to tempt it, specially when he was attempting to impress someone.

Oswald grinned and opened his mouth, a response on the tip of his tongue when he spotted something unusual out the corner of his eye. Some habits die hard, trying to remain aware of his surroundings was one he didn't care to kill off. He glanced round and there he was, Arnold Wesker and his doll.

Now? The man picks now to resurface?! Oswald had wished to speak with the man but he would never have chosen now! For a second there's a look of pure rage in his eyes shot at Arnold and then it's just gone, replaced with just mild displeasure. He was in public, he couldn't get angry in public. He could barely stand for talking with criminals in public for fear it would lead to anyone questioning the legality of his business again. He had apparently gone straight, he wasn't prepared to inform the general public that it was simply an act.

He looked away long enough to give Lola a look that suggested the very idea that this man was his friend was a laughably ridiculous idea. He didn't wish to admit he knew about the man with the creepy dummy.

Oswald was drawn. On the one hand if he left Lola alone for too long she'd probably be snapped up by someone younger if not quite as rich before he returned. On the other Arnold could answer some questions he had, could be up to something important and he couldn't say no to business. If it was something illegal, a highly likely chance considering it was Scarface, he could hardly allow Lola to listen in. Either way the information he desired from Arnold was about the man attempting to kill someone, she could hardly be allowed to hear that.

"Business in entertainment presumably" he replied dryly as a comment on the ventriloquist act, partially stalling while he thought. Personal lives and business never did mix. Well there was nothing for it, his reputation and curiosity would have to win over a woman he'd only just met. Barely able to get comfortable in his chair before he has to stand again, Ozzy steps from the table and gestures for Arnold to move "Perhaps we should talk in a more private area of the club" his mind was set upon a smaller, function room that attached to the far end of the bar. Always available for hiring out it ended up primarily used for small yet expensive private parties, businessmen showing off and the occasional high class stag party that was usually worth more in potential blackmail than the cost of actually hiring the room.

On a spur of the moment thought he offers a hand out to Lola before he moves "Would you care to join me or do you wish to remain here?" it was safe to say women were a weakness of his, particularly those who actually showed an interest in him. At least if she decided to come he could be out of sight of the public while talking to a known criminal, potentially still keep her out of hearing range and she definitely wasn't going to meet someone else in that room. Except of course Arnold but somehow he didn't see much of a threat there.

[agape]

The Ventriloquist and Scarface flinch a bit upon seeing the momentarily look of pure rage upon the expression of the Penguin. It was obvious that this was not the best time to approach the king of Gotham's bourgeoisie. The new look of displeasure makes the beginning of this meeting uncomfortable for the Ventriloquist.

It turns to the woman siting next to the Penguin and provides the woman with a slight sneer. She's the one who should not be here. The rogues of Gotham City were the true rock stars and this one was simply a fan. She did not deserve to be in a meeting between the two of them, or at least the Ventriloquist believed so. There was a few seconds where the Ventriloquist felt a pride of victory when the Penguin turned the meeting to one of the affluent rooms to the rear of the club.

"Heh. With pleasure Mistah' Coggle Pot," Scarface responded. "A private area of da club would do just nicely."

Scarface and the Ventriloquist are just about to head off to the back room when the Penguin turns back to the woman with the long black hair and offers her an invitation to join them. Scarface's jaw nearly drops to the ground, and the Ventriloquist has to pull it back up for him. The Ventriloquist then readjusts Scarface so that he is resting on the creature's forearm instead of dangling in mid-air.

"With all due respect Mr. Cogglepot..."

Scarface was about to interject, but the Ventriloquist knew this was the Penguin's club, so it was his rules, and his call. While they waited for Lola Marks to answer, Scarface makes a statement to the Penguin.

"We woul' like to work for ye Mister Cogglepot. "Ge put on yer payroll. Act as yer muscle. A second in command. Heh."

[Lola Marks]

She had to admit, the mood in Gotham was interesting so far. The people in it were a very unique sort compared to back home. She could honestly say that she had never randomly met a Ventriloquist in New York, not that she minded that fact at all. She did mind being interrupted with her new company, however. Lola had to admit she was enjoying Oswald’s company more than she probably should have for having just met.

How could she have missed the, oh so prevalent sneer from the creepy old man? The look was only returned with a polite, yet restricted smile. She wasn’t going to get upset just because he wanted more attention than her. He didn’t have a prayer, even with his rather intimidating dummy. That thought was furthered as he began to talk normally through the dummy. That was even more charming than before. This man clearly belonged in a nut house.

She pulled her hand back after it was rudely not taken at all, but she didn’t mind. Lola was actually thankful that she didn’t have to touch him. When Oswald spoke up again he mentioned something about going to a ‘private’ area of the club. There was even more? Her mind filled with curiosity, but also with worry as to what his choice might be. If anything she could always sit here and have her drink she ordered. She knew she wouldn’t be alone for long before someone else would sit with her and entertain her.

Just as her doubt began to rise Oswald got up and turned to her offering his hand. Lola gracefully accepted it with a warm smile on her face. “I’d love to join you” She spoke up with a nod just as the strange ventriloquist seemed to protest. After his statement, made through the doll, she had realized that the dummy itself emoted more than the man behind it. Lovely… Creepy and rude….how charming. This was turning out to be quite an interesting first evening in Gotham. Despite the interruption, she was actually enjoying herself; a little excitement would be good for her. What better way to get her fix with danger than going to the private area of a club with a ‘very’ charming man she just met and man who talks through a doll?

Gracefully she slid over in her booth while keeping her hand tipped into his and followed him out of the booth. Remaining observant she listened to the man’s next statement about the business that they would conduct. A ventriloquist? Working for Oswald? Something about the pieces didn’t seem to fit right, but she supposed he may be a good investment of some sort or he wouldn’t waste his time with him. Maybe the industry makes more money than she originally thought? Lola waited patiently to be brought wherever Oswald was going to lead her.

[Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin]

"You wish to speak of respect?" Oswald muttered back to the Ventriloquist. His tone was mild but his look said he was a bad idea when he'd just had his pleasant conversation interrupted.

Lola agrees to come though so perhaps all is not lost, particularly if she's willing to follow Oswald into a room with Scarface in it. It helps to cool Oswald's mood, he might be able to salvage the evening and get a little business done. There could be nothing finer than that perfect balance between his public image and his criminal dealings, this was just on a smaller scale than he usually took part in.

He delicately took Lola's hand and led the way, hooking his umbrella onto his arm so he could steal the tray with their drinks on from the waiter returning with them and take those along as he chuckled at Scareface's request on the way into the next room.

It wasn't a big room, not when one had just come in out of the huge main room, but it continued with the Arctic theme of the rest of the club with a few fake icebergs and a couple of marble penguins to guard the door, cool colours were of course the ruling style and a huge aquarium took up one of the walls with a couple of booths in front of it much like some parts of the actually lounge. A pool table sat unused at one end here was a small opening for the bar where Oswald lead Lola to one of the barstools, left the tray on the bar and leant over the bar to get the lights on "I already have a second in command" he replied cheerily before adding as an aside to Lola "Security is quite important in places such as this, every city has it's problems"

The situation is just enough to make him impulsively reach into his pocket for his cigarette case, and entirely separate case for his filters, putting each together as he talks and he leaves both cases on the bar, lighting the cigarette on the move as he moves closer to the other man "Perhaps though I do have something you can do"

Finally he's close enough to Arnold and far enough from Lola that he's quite certain that he won't be overheard when he lowers his voice "I have a back door for a reason Scarface, you do not approach me in public without a very good reason. I have an image I need to keep and being seen associating with criminals will cast doubt upon that image" he'd prefer to address Arnold but acknowledges things will probably go faster if he just talks to the dummy. Having told Arnold off for the day though he swiftly moves onto actual business "You desire employment, I believe I could have use for you. Tell me, do you still have those thugs of yours?"

[agape]

Both the Ventriloquist and Scarface were not happy to see that Lola Marks was going to be attending their business with the Penguin. Not in the least bit. She was attractive however, and even though Scarface had little use for beautiful women, the Ventriloquist did. It began to make mental notes and personal reminders to whisper into Scarface's ear after the meeting was concluded. Her presence also seemed to ease and appease the Penguin, making the Capo de Capo less angry and moody towards the Ventriloquist which was a good thing. Arnold Wesker could easily feel the tension between Itself and Oswald Cobblepot, which made It very very uncomfortable.

The moment they entered the back room with the Arctic themes, Scarface let out a whistle.

"Impre--ssive!"

Even though it was not a large room it had affluence, class, and refinement. The colors were perfect, the decorations theraputic, and the aquarium was grand and exotic.

"Dis is da type of place dat I wanna get for myself. Heh.."

The comment about having a second in command was a direct 'no' in response to Scarface's offer. It did not surprise the mobster. Over the past year the criminal career of the Ventriloquist and Scarface had been in somewhat of a downward spiral. There was the failures with Pamela Isley, Nina Stenet that were spreading through the Gotham community and the fact that the Ventriloquist was one of the few Gotham rogues to spend the entire time locked up by the FBI added to the humiliation. In order to work as the second in command for someone like the Penguin, they would have to earn it. They would have to regain the respect.

The Penguin the the woman made their way to the bar. The Ventriloquist followed suit, making sure to walk closely to Lola as It made Its way to the opposite side of the Penguin. As it walked by It whispered.

"Curly Locks, Curly Locks,
Will you be mine?
You shall not wash dishes,
Nor feed the swine,
But sit on a cushion
And sew a fine seam,
And sup upon strawberries,
Sugar, and cream.

Heee."

Scarface and the psychopath sat down next to the Penguin, keeping Cobblepot between Itself and Lola.

Scarface looked at the Penguin with envy as he struck up the cigarette and then They listened to what the Penguin had to say.

"Ah' apo-LO-gize very profusely Mister Co'gglepot. It will never 'happen again. We'll use da g'ack door as ye instructed. And yep! We still have some of the old gang. G'ut may'ge da job is something we can do ourselves? Heh."

[Lola Marks]

Lola kept her hand gracefully in Oswald’s as he led her out. She made note of the strange umbrella that he had hooked onto his arm. It was a bit odd for someone to carry an umbrella around inside, and it was a clear night from what she remembered earlier. Aside from that it was different than what she was used to she didn’t think anything more of it. She came from another part of the U.S, people were not going to be the same wherever she went. What one place considered proper, perhaps another place wouldn’t? She would have to adjust as she went.

She was glad that the drinks were coming along with them; her drink after all was not cheap. She walked with them toward wherever Oswald wanted them to go. Her deep red stiletto heels were clicking each time they hit the floor and the sound became more present as they began to pull away from the public parts. The two men talked to each other as they walked, although both of them remained polite it wasn’t difficult to tell that there was quite a bit of tension. It wasn’t her place to pry, but she ‘really’ wanted to.

Walking through the Lounge was almost like walking through an artic dream. The dream only continued as they made their way to their destination. The Penguin theme was adorable; it seemed that he might have had a thing for them. A favorite animal maybe? She’d tuck that away and remember it for later. She thought the overall theme was stylish and perfect for someone that loved the artic so much. When Lola stepped into the room however, she was blown away by the design. What grabbed her attention immediately was the huge aquarium that covered the entire wall. Preservation of sea life? Such class, environmentalism was the hot topic of the upper class lately and animal preservation of all kinds was included. Needless to say, she was very impressed. So impressed she almost wanted to tear herself away and go stare into the glass, but she had more important company than the fishes.

The sincere smile that shined brightly on her face quickly faded as she was led to the bar. A creeping sensation same over her skin and caused several bumps to raise up on her arms. She felt a breath just over her shoulder toward the back of her neck, bated and heavy. With her hand safely in Oswald’s there was only one other option as to who it could be. After analysis of her fear, it quickly turned to annoyance. Why was this guy walking so close to her? Did he have no respect for personal space at all?! She was half ready to turn around and give him a piece of her mind, but considering the circumstance she would bare it.

Any air that she held about her at all after that moment was stripped away as a soft murmured rhyme was whispered into her ear. Lola’s eyes widened through the words as it drew to a close. No..No..No..No..No! He was not just talking about her! It had to be some creepy thing that creepy guys did for whatever creepy reason! In no way could it have been directed toward her. It was one of those moments where she just wanted to say she needed to powder her nose and run into the bathroom. Once she was in there she would want to place herself into a stall and do a silent scream. Not the kind that you hide because you’re excited that you just met the man of your dreams, but the kind that you are so scared so just don’t want anyone to hear you!

Her face held the worry and anxiety for a few minutes longer until she was brought to the bar and offered a seat next to Oswald…Not next to the creepy Ventriloquist. Lola felt an instant relief from the stress of the moment as she took a seat next to him and finally let go of her hand. As soon as the tray with their drinks was set down her eyes were glued to it. She would love to take a drink right now but she was going to wait a moment and keep herself as poised as she could after that. Just as she thought that was all she wanted Oswald brought out a cigarette case, with filters. A small smile appeared that she showed with her eyes. She could really use one of those too. Her finger lightly tapped the counter, Damn that thug that took her purse.

The two men turned to each other and began to talk amongst themselves. Oswald was talking much too low for her to hear, so he probably didn’t want her hearing. She was fine sitting by herself for the moment, as she just moved to grab her Goddess elixir and take a drink. It was so sweet and tasted so good after going through that. Just as she got a good taste the voice of the doll cracked into the atmosphere. The back door? The old gang? Lola rose a brow in thought, taking another sip of her elixir.

[Oswald Cobblepot - The Penguin]

Oswald also spent most of his time during the FBI takeover locked up but he prefers to think of it as partially by choice. While they had him they were less likely to find his staff continuing with his orders and he could hardly have escaped capture without ruining the impression that he has gone straight. It had all been very inconvenient.

Arnold's little rhyme did not improve Ozzy's mood. If anything it made it worse. He really should have expected the insane man to be able to behave with any sort of dignity, now he'd have to see he made up for that too. Already he'd formed a reasonable explanation for the current meeting, he could work it all in but it would depend on Arnold not saying something completely inexcusable.

He tried not to flinch when Scarface still spoke loud enough for Lola to hear. It seemed as though to woman had no clue about Gotham, he imagined she was new or visiting the city. She didn't know him, she didn't know the Ventriloquist. He recognised most of the members of high society that lived in Gotham and she wasn't among them. The alternative of course was that she was an undercover cop with an unusually large budget for clothes but he'd check into that and see her dealt with if it seemed likely but it was another reason to keep her close and not snooping around. Besides, if Arnold messed up it was only him who'd be in trouble, Oswald could still claim ignorance so long as she never heard him say anything.

Oswald placed himself firmly between Lola and Arnold and lifted his umbrella, holding it in both hands. If he was right about Lola knowing nothing about him and the city she would hopefully think little of the gesture, to someone who knew there was a gun concealed within, occasionally something worse, it could be a mild threat "Kindly control Arnold and lower your voice if indeed it is possible" he muttered again, ensuring he kept his voice low. He wasn't entirely certain if Scarface could lower his voice, he'd never really looked into the specifics of ventriloquism and if it was possible to whisper.

He moved on quickly, the sooner he could get Lola and Arnold out of the same room the better. He couldn't trust the man now to answer questions about Dr. Stenet without giving something away, he would simply have to question Arnold later "Use your men or not, it doesn't matter. There is a gang near the docks, recently acquired. The leader is new and in question, ensure his loyalty and that he doesn't attempt to disrupt business travelling through the docks, otherwise take care of the problem. Do this correctly and perhaps we shall see if there is a more permanent place for you" Oswald considered it a minor issue or he would have sent someone down to the gang to investigate already but there were rumours that the gang was trying to short cut the Penguin and that would never do. Perhaps the reputation of the Ventriloquist working for him would help to encourage the thought that this was a bad idea, either way it would be a suitable test while Cobblepot considered his options more carefully.

[agape]

The entire time during their discussion Scarface kept his attention clearly focused on the Penguin. Listening intently. He looked up at the Ventriloquist and found the old man perversely staring and studying the woman at the bar. Lola was her name was it not? This was working very well. In most instances the woman in question would have walked away the moment they felt the sense of creepiness, but the woman was here on her own accord and she was a guest of the Penguin. She would not leave the conversation as long as the Penguin was around, which resulted in her being near the Ventriloquist. A catch 22 for the woman with the affluent attire.

Suddenly the Ventriloquist grabbed Scaface's arm and forced the manneqin to slap him.

"Owe!" The Ventriloquist cried. "Heeee."

"Pay 'attention dummy."

"Yes Mister Scarface."

The Penguin offered them a job. From the sound of it the job could have been handled by any regular set of goons out there. What was the meaning of this?

"Excuse me Mister Cogglepot, G'ut we were looking for something, ye know a little more high profile? Capiche? Offering us dis jo'g is a pure slap in da face!"

Scarface's voice began to rise slightly, as the Ventriloquist slowly turned it's attention away from Lola and narrowed It's eyes at the short fat man. But despite the sudden anger toward the Penguin the Ventriloquist continued to look at Lola, seeing if the woman would be impressed by their sudden outburst against the owner of the night club.

"Pussycat, pussycat, where have you been?
I've been to London to visit the Queen.
Pussycat, pussycat, what did you there?
I frightened a little mouse under her chair. Heeeeee..."

[Lola Marks]

Lola tried to keep her composure steady as she casually took sips of her drink. Her body language had actually become quite nervous after everything that had happened, but having Oswald between them both felt much better than before. She took a quick mental note that Oswald was facing away from her and had his head partially declined trying to be quiet while speaking with the other man. It was obvious that he was talking about something important and business related, but it was really none of her business despite her curiosity on the subject. After the spout that they had had before, how could she be blamed for being curious as to why he would keep this man around?

The drink came to her lips and she took a long sip. It felt good against the back of her throat which had become dry due to her nerves. Just as she was beginning to enjoy herself again she noticed the creepy man leaning over slightly to stare at her. How long had he been staring at her? Why had he taken to ever staring at her in the first place? The drink that was once giving her satisfaction and calming her nerves was now barely helping.

Oswald seemed to be stand-offish to him to begin with and was certainly proper enough to put distance between him and her. It was a good thing too because she wasn’t sure if she could handle sitting next to him for very long. Just sitting at this distance was beginning to bother her as he’s creepy eyes kept his sights on her. She had dealt with men staring at her before but men with puppets? That was a first. She wasn’t going to just leave and walk out of the club for no good reason though! He would have to do much better than stare at her, even if it was with a creepy doll.

Lola’s eyes widened in shock as the hard slap echoed into the room. She promptly set her drink down and just stared in awe for a moment. Did he…..Did he just slap himself? Ohh boy this guy had some serious issues that he needed to work out. The sooner they were done with their business the better things would be. The creepy man began to raise his voice again and she caught ‘some’ of what he said. Just what kind of business were they talking about anyway? What kind of business leads you to slap yourself?

Ew…He was looking at her again. Her look of fearful disgust was hard to get rid of but she knew she had to. It was improper for her to do anything else, especially in the presence of such company and in such a beautiful place. She supposed that maybe she could forgive him for what he had done so far. The man might have some serious medical issues that she could act like she sympathized with – since that seemed to be another hot topic to get on board with these days. So instead of holding that fearful look she replaced it with a fake smile.

All of it was quickly dashed to the ground as he began to sing again. Any flutter that Oswald had caused in her heart has dropped completely by this point; the man was simply ruining the mood! And that was an understatement! Her face went white as the little song finished and again it seemed to be about her. A nervous laugh left her and her fingers twirled about her glass. “I think I need to powder my nose..” She said quickly in the middle of their conversation.

Lola looked for a bathroom in the room a bit disappointed that she didn’t see one right away. One couldn’t be far however. Her head bobbed around for a moment before a young bartender slid out from what seemed to be nowhere and asked her if there was anything he could get her. When she explained what she needed he pointed her in the right direction and she stared at him. A proper lady doesn’t just jump off a bar stool, she didn’t get into one without her hand being in Oswald’s. Getting the message the young man ran around the corner and took her hand. She gracefully got off the stool and let him lead her to the bathroom.

Once she was inside she took a single calming breath and walked to the mirror. The sound of her echoing footsteps made the situation all too real for her, almost like putting rhythm to the little song she had been sang. She adjusted her hair and fixed her dress, knowing that she didn’t have any make up on her. It was all in her purse and her purse had been stolen, but it was a good enough excuse to calm her nerves for a moment.