View source for 2196/Murder Isn't The Only Way To Have Fun

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2017/08/27
|Location=Riza 3, Outer Space
|Synopsis=Indigo blackmails Gamora to try to have fun.
|Cast of Characters=161, 211, 1187
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora is seated at the table of the common area, looking over a list on a tablet of various bounties, rewards, and jobs for mercenaries, and any other way that the crew of the Milano can stay busy. Apparently, already thinking of what to do after their trip to Risa 3, after the rest of the Milano was stripped, and the ship-mounted guns either sold, or returned from whence they came. She's letting Rocket, or the others handle those transactions. The boys are more than capable of at least not screwing that up. Probably.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo's boots are nearly silent. The wheels on the mop bucket are not. Their squeak isn't abominable, but it definitely presages Indigo's entry into the common area. "Oh... hi, Gamora," she greets quietly. Not as quietly as before her little heart-to-heart, but quietly. "I was just going to do some cleaning, but if you want to be alone I can come back."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They have a mop bucket? Gamora looks at the thing with a measure of confusion, her expression almost translating into language without the need to be able to read body language: When did we get that? ... "I thought everyone else was debarked," she comments. "We will need a new job when we are finished doing whatever it is Peter wants to do on Risa 3." Gamora, clearly, has taken it on herself to find that job.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks at the mop bucket again, then to Indigo, her golden eyes narrowing, thoughtfully. "This is not something Peter talked you into?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I went with him for a little bit, but I started to feel bad. You shouldn't be the only person back here working instead of having fun," Indigo explains, shooting a quick, shy glance at Gamora's eyes before returning her gaze to the mop's handle. "You're always taking care of us, so I wanted to come back and take care of things with you for a little bit. You shouldn't have to shoulder it all yourself."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora continues to look marginally confused, but then she shrugs, "I like to stay busy," she says, vaugely off-handedly. "Besides. If I left finding a job to Rocket, we would all probably die." That's at least half-true. The gleefully psychotic little not-rodent would, most likely, pick the highest paying, most dangerous job there was. Probably. It's not something Gamora wants to leave to chance.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks again at the mop bucket. "We had one of those?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I got one. When Peter found me floating in space..." She trails off, squeezes her eyes shut in a gesture a little too violent to be called a blink, and when she opens her eyes again forces herself to go on. "...my systems were so damaged my self-preservation protocols kicked in and I uploaded myself to the Milano to hijack it back to Knowhere so I could get repaired. It's..." She trails off shyly, smiling an uneasy smile down at the floor. "I know it's silly, but ever since it brought me back to Knowhere for repairs, I've felt like I owe the Milano. So I try to show her some love and take care of her like she took care of me."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The woman shakes her currently black hair at that, then squints at the handheld device, and ventuers, "This should work just fine." She presses a button to indicate the Guardians will take the job, and then sets the device down to regard Indigo a little more thoughtfully. "Good. Rocket will appreciate having someone else to help him keep the Milano going," she conceeds, approvingly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The mop pauses at that declaration, still mostly in the bucket. "That should work? So, you mean your work here is done?" Indigo asks, a smile hidden somewhere in the electric hum of her voice.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The question again confuses Gamora. At least, to the intent where it was going to lead. "I ... suppose," she says, marginally hesitantly. A little unsure, even. Suspicious. Now her expression turns somewhat guarded. Peter has used such tricks before on her. Like, to get her to -dance-.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A cautious eye is turned on Indigo, and her devious mop bucket. "Why do you ask?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo carefully leans the mop handle against the nearest wall and walks over to Gamora, eyes downcast but smile genuine. "Because I'd very much like to take you out to the park and have fun with you. And I'm about to embarrass you into doing it, you should know. I don't want to, but if I have to, I'm willing to go so far as to get on my knees in front of you and cry into your lap until your pants are soaked or you come with me," she informs Gamora solemnly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora puts her head into her hands. Why can't people just. Leave. Her. Alone. First Peter. Then Groot. Now, Indigo.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a very loud, audible sigh from Gamora. Who, apparently, has just been defeated. Without a single blow thrown in combat. "Fine. I will get my sword, and my guns." Because, well, they're Guardians. And maybe a fight will break out, and save her from having to socialize. There's a pretty good probability of it, moreso than most other people, afterall.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora pushes herself up, and moves to head to her quarters. She stops, considers, and looks at Indigo. "This is not going to involve dancing, is it?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo smiles widely and brilliantly at Gamora's acquiescense, even clapping her hands once! "Yay!" she squeals. "Thank you, Gamora, I'm really glad you came along. And I hadn't planned to take you dancing, but I thought if you felt like it would be interesting, we could watch a low-G dance performance?" she suggests. "If not, there's so much else to do! You'd probably find the rides pretty pedestrian, but there's the water park, the animal exhibits, lots of places to eat, shows to watch, just lounging on the beaches..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora is gone, for a few moments, to gather her weapons. She fits the laser pistol holster over her hips, slung slanted, and then fits the Godslayer into it's small sheath, leaving it in knife form presently. The time gives her a few moments to decide the least horrible thing that she can pick out of that, the will mollify Indigo and prevent the gynoid from going through with her blackmail.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She emerges a minute later, "Fine. We will go look at the animals," she conceeds. "Perhaps they will let us hunt one."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo doesn't press it as she leads Gamora out of the Milano and onto the high-raised platform the ship landed on. The paved surface is bright white and orange, and should be blinding in the tropical sun but for the polarized shield in the sky screening out the worst of the sunlight. Outside the Milano's gravity pump, there's an immediate shift in the way a person's body feels and moves: each step could send Gamora two feet in the air. It explains why the landing pads are so wide. It gives new arrivals time to adjust.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo got the hang of it on her first trip out, but even so, as she leaves the Milano she extends the thrust fin assemblies in her shoulders and calves (must be why she left her Ravager's jacket behind) just in case. She offers Gamora a hand, asking, "Are you familiar with low-G walking? If not, I can keep a hand on you to help keep you anchored."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The low-G enviornment does, initially, take Gamora be surprise for the first step, or two. But then, almost reflexively, she's already adapting. "Yes," she answers, perhaps more briskly than intended. "There is a martial arts technique on a planet in the outer-rim that was created with the natives in a pure low-G enviornment," she recants. "Perhaps I will have time to demonstrate it to you."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora is ... trying to be nice. Like the first time they met in the galley. Her attention turns to her crewmate, the shoulder flaps. "Convienent," she asseses, approvingly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo stops her little hopping-shuffle forward at the offer, and turns to face Gamora. "I'd like that," she agrees, innocently. For all that her intellect is one of the most complicated in the universe, Indigo has fairly simple priorities in life: she likes it when people are happy. Gamora seems like she would be happy in more martial pursuits, so... easy solution to an easy problem.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"If you'd like, there's plenty of room to demonstrate here on the landing pad," she offers. "You could do a kata or two without scaring anyone down on the ground?" A ground at least a hundred feet below, and nearly invisible from here just from the canopy of constant, lush growth.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I would need someone to demonstrate on," Gamora points out, with a measure of practical air. Then, perhaps, she realizes what she is doing, and she slows to a stop, closes her eyes, and then opens them again to look back at Indigo. "I said I would see the animals. So, let us go there, first." Besides. Seeing new animals, even if in a 'zoo', would be informative as to know their native planets if they are dangerous. It could be deemed a scouting mission, right?<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo dips her head in a nod. "Alright. Let's go, Gamora." She leads the way to the turbolift, and as the car arrives, she chuckles suddenly. "I was about to offer you my arm like we're going on a date, but I don't think you'd appreciate that kind of humor, would you? You probably get enough of it from Peter." No mention of whether her wife would like it. Maybe Viridian can take a joke.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thank you." The words are sincere from Gamora, and with the fact she doesn't try to take Inidgo's arm, she's clearly thanking Indigo for having the awareness to respect her personal space. She adds, a moment after, "I do not go on 'dates'." The statement is merely factual. Much like Gamora, herself.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Still, as they land upon the streets and the main sections of the planet off the landing strips, she does look around, with a curious air. Measuring. Considering. Taking everything in. This is a first time for her at this particular planet. And it is quite beautiful; that is something Gamora can appreciate. Even if it is swarming with people.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The path to the various parks is wide, and made of rich dirt so deeply packed not even the shuffling gait of the high-G patrons can kick up dust. It's lined on either side by tall, narrow trees that curve in the constant, aromatic breeze, their leaves broad and growing only at the tops of the trunks to fight for sunlight among their brethren; the shade is near-constant, keeping down the undergrowth. Birds and insects chirp off in the distance. She nods at Gamora's explanation. "I know. The joke was based on the irony of it. If it's not too personal, can I ask, are you not romantically inclined at all, or is your solitude more a matter of training?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You have been spending too much time with Peter," is Gamora's answer to Indigo. Because that man is the only other one whose really tried to make her feel feelings. So, clearly? CLEARLY. Peter has been influencing Indigo. That has to be the answer, right?<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She lets Indigo lead, following the blue-skinned gynoid towards the animals, looking around from time-to-time, continuing to assess her surroundings. "I have a sister. Nebula. Hope that you never meet her."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Coming from the opposite direction is a familiar figure...though certainly not in a familiar look. Gone is her kimono-style dress with the slowly shifting starscape; instead, the petite gynoid appears to have gone for local culture for her current dress, which is...interesting looking. As befits a tourism world with mostly beaches, she's wearing what looks to be almost a saffron orange one swimsuit looking garment, which is open at the sides, and teh midriff, and plunges so far in the front it's a V that extends all the way down to below her waist, the top becoming two thick straps that run over her breasts. It would be a bit more risque were not most of that covered by a semi-translucent cream colored sarong that hangs off her hips, and a sort of loose flowing coat of similar material, likewise transluscent (especially with a light source beind it), but provides a measure of both propriety and a way for Loli to indulge in her love of lace, as the inner hem, as well as the edges of her flowing sleeves and at her throat are a beautiful embroidered lace, that runs over the sides in a slow starburst that meets roughly at where her heart would be, buttoned there, but still showing a generous amount of pale, tanned skin. Her legs are bare, save for her sandals, which are a complex series of leather straps that run horizontally around her lower leg from below her knee to the ankle, becoming open sandals, more straps running over the top of her foot, with delicate looking but metallic three inch heels.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks a bit suprised to see the two of you coming, but smiles and waves as you approach. "Hello..." she says cheerfully. "Coming out to enjoy the fresh air?" She has a shopping bag on her arm, a smaller one. So she didn't apparently set out to refurbish her whole wardrobe in one go.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm sorry I asked that," Indigo apologizes to Gamora, startled by the response. She's spared the embarrassment of having to think of a new conversational gambit by Gothic Lolita's approach, to whom she returns the wave. "Er, yes," she agrees. "We were going to look at some of the animal settlements, if you wanted to come along."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora clarifies for Lolita, "Indigo has insisted on taking me to see the animals. I have consented, because the alternative was less pleasant." She shrugs, briefly, and she nods. "You can join us, if you wish." Her golden eyes sweep, briefly, over Lolita's attire. "However, you seem to have other designs in mind for your time here. We do not wish to impose."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The green-skinned woman shrugs, and then looks to Indigo. Frowns. "Settlements?" She -had- mentioned hunting animals. And Indigo had never suggested anything otherwise. Settlements does not sound like hunting.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The gynoid perks initially at the mention of animals, her eyes widening slightly. "I would love to do so, thank you, Lady Gamora." she says politely, then blinks, looking down at herself. "Plans? Well...oh. Oh! Ah...well." <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The little gynoid gets a slow flush. "There was an...accident with my last outfit, and I didn't have time to make a new one yet, so I thought I should find something appropriate here." She fidgets. "...this is actually considered very...staid as a style, for this world, apparently. In that top garments appear to be very optional." She mmms. "...or at least, there doesn't appear to be a lot of more, ah, complete outfits on sale that I could locate.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo catches the reproach in Gamora's voice, but ignores it. The situation is what it is, and Gamora will like it or not; Indigo can't control that, and would likely make things worse if she tried. "Settlements," she confirms. "You'll see when we get there." She nods along at Gothic Lolita's story, accepting it as simply a thing that happens. It's certainly not unusual for Loli.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Then I'm certain the boys are enjoying themselves," Gamora allows. At least she's not singling out Peter, this time. She considers, her expression twists, and she realizes she's not 'trying', and Indigo is. She at least owes the gynoid that, if nothing else. She affects a brief smile. Or, tries to. "Very well," she agrees, "I will see when I get there."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then, she asides to Loli, "I'll make sure that some of our funds that we've recieved go into getting you some proper armor. You will get shot at, a lot."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita gets a twinkle in her eye at that for some reason. "That would be wonderful! I don't know much about the armor that would be appropriate." she says politely, if a bit thoughfully. "Generally I just wear something that covers; that way it's just a quickly passing moment of ennui when it inevitably gets damaged or destroyed." And it seems like something Gamora both knows a lot about and may be interested, and she's certainly interested in learning more about her newly met crewmate, if nothing else. She doesn't have the heart to point out she likely would outlast most armors in her bare skin. Besides, it would be rude to turn down such a generous offer!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo flicks a quick, shy, nervous smile at Gamora. "Thank you. I appreciate that. You're being very good to both Loli and I, and I know we both appreciate it." She clears her throat and changes the subject before it gets too mushy. "So, Loli. Have you done anything other than shopping?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gamora nods, "We will discuss armors when we return. I will show you my collection." Yes. Gamora has a collection of armor. And, one can only guess the pile of weapons she has for her personal use. Only slightly lesser in amount than that of Rocket.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And after that? She is comfortable to resume following Indigo towards the settlement of animals, to listen, to observe, watch. It's not neccessarily that she thinks anything is going to happen. But, ... they are the Guardians. And, well. That speaks volumes.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That would be lovely Lady Gamora, thank you." Lolita falls in on the other side of Indigo, as if recognizing Gamora may prefer not to be boxed in, letting her bag swing as her sandals click lightly as she walks. "Well, no...I was intending to come back to the ship to see what others were doing before thinking about going off by myself. I just...needed something to wear." she notes simply, smiling a bit at Indigo. "I did see some of the tourist areas, and one of the beaches nearby, which were very pretty...the water here is pinkish, did you know that? It's some sort of local mineral mixed in the sand, that waves stir up when they come in. It's very pretty." she say cheerfully, before looking thoughful as they walk along. "What kind of animals are in the zoo, Indigo? Is it local animals, or from other worlds as well?" she asks curiously. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Local," Indigo says immediately. She's facing straight ahead as she walks, not looking at either of her companions. "I don't think I would have been able to handle a zoo of animals taken from their home worlds right now." Fortunately, she sounds mostly factual as she says that; just a slight underlayer of stress. "Plus I don't think many sentient species would be okay with transplanting animals to another world with wildly different gravity, sunlight conditions, atmosphere, food availability... you know. What kind of armors did you have in mind, Gamora?" she asks abruptly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita's eyes widen slightly at Indigo's reaction, a slightly stricken expression crossing her face before she controls it. She...did it AGAIN. Why can't she think before she powers her vocal processor?? She quiets for the moment as the other gynoid explains all the reasons why...which of COURSE connects to the Collector.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She's just going to let Gamora and Indigo carry the conversation for a moment. Surely Gamora can save it!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I keep a number of armors for a variety of situations. What I am wearing now, for example, will turn away most metallics, horns, or natural claws. But it allows me a high measure of flexiblity and mobility. It is poor against energy weapons, or other artillery, however. I find it perfect for close combat. Where do you prefer to be when the fighting starts?" Because there is -always- fighting.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks to Indigo, "Or, you?" Afterall, she and Indigo have not fought together before. Though it's clear that Peter already highly values Indigo as a crewmember, and that's good enough for Gamora.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo glances down and to the left, about hip level, like she's worried she might have dropped something on the ground behind her. Who knows, in her Ravager pants that actually have pockets, maybe she has stuff to drop now. Instead, her targeting systems are activated, and her left hand shoots out to take Gothic Lolita's right and hold it as she walks along. No reproach allowed.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"While you were gone, I was a front-line combatant," Indigo explains to Gamora, now daring to risk her little sidelong glances at the half-titan as they approach a literal light at the end of the tunnel, where the trees open up onto a wide plain with a paved path twisting asymmetrically through it, connecting to kiosks and, more importantly, winding near wide, open pits with gentle adobe walls about four feet high surrounding them, preventing anyone from tumbling in with the animals barring malice aforethought. From a hundred yards back, it's impossible to see how deep the pits go, but they must be quite deep given leaping distances on this world. The smell wafting in is musky but not entirely unpleasant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"My skin has ablative coating that makes me resistant to impact and thermal discharges," Indigo continues to explain, "and I'm capable of emitting gravitic shields for further deflection. Between that and my synthetic nature making damage to me less lethal than to most, I was... well, to borrow Loli's phrase, the most disposable." A little smile. "But on missions you're around for, I'm not sure that's true any longer. You're probably faster than I am, and the differences in our strength won't matter in the majority of situations. You'd likely be better at it than I am."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita twitches as Indigo takes her hand, glancing over, looking unsure for a moment, but squeezing the other girl's hand slowly after a moment, a quick response. She hasn't really heard all that Indigo can do either, her eyes flicking over to the other gynoid's face as she smiles faintly, though she purses her lips towards the end, then starts to open them, about to say Indigo is certainly -not- expandable...and apparently can be taught, as her logical processes then point out that, technically, Indigo was designed to be expendable as camouflage and...perhaps that won't be the best thing to say.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead, she settles for explaining to Gamora. "I was designed to be a expendable front-line heavy combatant, constructed of a massively hyperdense assembly of nanite-infused smartware with a bio-organic endurium exoshell. I have a maximum lift potential of approximately 100 metric tons, with a similar level of durability for impacts and energy transferals of equivalent power. My body incorporates experimental 'van der Waals' generators that use natural attractive forces to allow me to cling to surfaces capable of supporting my weight. I have overclocked reflexes to a similar organic human, as well as increased agility and flexibility. The epidurium in my exoshell renders my exterior as impenetrable as my interior." She smiles faintly, glancing over. "Or, to put it plainly, I am built for smashing and bashing through anything in my path and drawing all fire from the rest of the team to protect less shielded members."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'When she was gone'. The words echo in her mind, knowing just where she was when her friends were in trouble. The thoughts churning in her head about that cause her a brief sense of - discomfort? And her steps slow, before she attempts to purge them out of her mind to a degree.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Several steps before the musky scent is actually there for most people - perhaps gynoids are an exception, Gamora's nose twitches, and she tells the two with her, "We are nearing the animals. Their territory markings are apparent." She is curious, now, to watch these animals. Primal instincts, at the very least, are something that Gamora can appreciate. And, to some degree, understand better than emotions.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Do not let Rocket examine you," are her first words to Lolita. She considers both of the women walking with her, before her gaze wanders towards the animal paths and territory below. She is uncertain how to take this news, that there are two more front-line combatants in the crew. Surely that's a good thing? A war of brief emotions, doubts, flickers through Gamora's features.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She turns to look at both of her companions, then. She nods, and decides on, "Then perhaps we shall not have to run as much as we have had to in the past when one of the boys does something stupid." Because if Peter isn't getting them in trouble? Rocket is.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The inhabitants of this world grow tall and thin, including its animal kingdom. The first enclosure is of a group of small mammals, or at least small relative to Riza 3; about three and a half feet tall, their short fur pink and yellow to blend in with the tropical flowers, their bodies so long and slender it's almost like they're entirely made of neck. They operate in a pack of about a dozen, trotting about more or less upright on short, stumpy legs with the aid of spindly arms rather longer than their entire body height. The mature adults form a loose, protective circle around the smaller younglings and a pair of aging elders whose movements are slower and less steady. Occasionally, one or two of the adults dart out toward the wall to collect the dried fruit other patrons are throwing over the walls for them, and bringing it back to the young and the elderly as offerings while the pack grooms each other.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm fairly strong, of course--my muscles are hydraulic--but in combat, my primary weaponry is ranged. Between that and my thrusters, I think I'm more effective as a long-range combatant than taking your role, Gamora."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This explanation is offered with a certain tremble in her voice, but though her eyes are misty, she's smiling in frank adoration at the little creatures running around in the enclosure.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita nods thougfully, peering over at Gamora. "...ah...yes. He seemed..." She searches for a word. "Very...unfiltered. From the short time I met him." She smiles a bit at Gamora as Indigo explains. "I am lacking all ranged weapons, other than throwing large, heavy objects at people. Or those people." she allows. "I have basic weapon training and targeting systems, but it is not my raison d'etre...ah, my purpose." She watches the green-skinned woman thoughfully. "Perhaps you could show me how to use some of thse weapons you captured? I think that you and Indigo will be superior overall at ranged combat, but it cannot hurt to be less...specialized." she decides.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As the creatures come into view, Lolita's eyes light up, as she pulls way to walk right up to the enclosure fence. "Oh, they're adorable!" she almost squeals, her emotional output processes peaking briefly. "And so pretty!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Prey. They have adapted to the unique gravity by utilizing quick, brief strides for fast momentum," Gamora analyzes, watching the way the animals behave. She considers Indigo, and Lolita as well. She considers, and also suggests, "Their colors are bright. And not unappealing," she tries. The green-skinned woman watches a few more moments, appreciatvely of the local animals.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You both sound effective. I look forward to working with you, when the opportunity arises. Perhaps we can start taking more dangerous jobs, for a larger amount of pay. We'll need it." Considering they keep on taking crew members.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo agrees with both of her companion's assessments, but she replies primarily to Gamora's, agreeing, "Prey, but not to avian predators, or else the enclosure would have a dome. Strong pack mentality provides a defense from solitary predators as well, so their mostly likely hunters are nocturnally active. Their arms are adaptable to climbing trees, but they'd be inefficient at it. Pregnant females likely reside in tree nests until they come to term." She smiles rarely and briefly at Gamora. "On the subject of epidermal markings, may I ask about the coloration of your eyes?" she tries. Fingers crossed.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita smiles a bit at Gamora's explanation. "Also all true. I wonder how common they are? On Earth, the only truly colorful creatures tend to be in jungle environments, and more often than not, a bright color is to warn off predators from a poisonous prey. But this world must be nothing but jungles and rainforests with the terrain all around the equator mostly." she says curiously.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At Indigo's question, Loli's blue eyes also turn to Gamora, looking quite curious herself. "Yes..it's a lovely color." she says thoughfully. <br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Gold was a primary eye color of my people," Gamora recants for the two girls with her, dispassionately. She adds, then, "The yellow coloration around my eyes assists with minimizing affects from bright lights, flares, and other visual distractions." With Gamora, everything has a purpose. She begins to walk towards the next animal area, then after a few moments.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She considers, and tries again, asking Indigo, "Why do you inquire about them? Surely you've seen more curious things in your time on the Milano. Or, in the Galaxy."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo squeezes Loli's hand for emotional support as she answers candidly, eyes on Gamora's cheekbones, "Because I want to know more about you, but I'm afraid to upset you by asking serious questions you might want to answer, so I'm trying to keep it light."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita tilts her head as her hand is taken again, then squeezes back comfortingly, stepping up by Indigo. "You -do- seem very no nonsense..." she says gently. "I'd like to learn more about you too, especially since we are crewmates now." She tilts her head. "...it's a very pretty color on you, too. Yellow, I mean. Practical and attractive at the same time." This from the mecha who prefers as much lace and frill as she can get usually. It's not like she can't appreciate efficiency though!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"If you wish to know something about me, ask," Gamora invites, looking over her shoulder to Indigo and that offer by proxy is extended to Lolita, additionally. She assures Indigo, "You will not upset me. Questions do not upset me."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As they get to the next settlement area, she peers down into the dug out area of floral fauna and foilage where a group of large mammal-like creatures with golden fur, both like, and unlike monkeys, and one of them unlashes a large folded wingspan - meant mostly for gliding with a little room for added effort - but these are not wings made for actual flight. Leaping from height to height, tree to tree. Clearly, to avoid predators on the ground, and keep to the fruit-bearing trees.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I like the color," she agrees to Loli.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo smiles gratefully at Gothic Lolita and nods along with Gamora. "I agree it's beautiful, and I'm glad you like it. Maybe it's different on your world, but on Earth, which my cultural mores are patterned on, women are judged fiercely on appearances and often have a lot of complaints about their bodies. It's nice to meet a woman who compliments herself."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The dark-haired gynoid smiles faintly, nodding at Indigo's explanation. "There are often unreasonable expectations that are unhealthy." she admits. "I was lucky in that I was able to choose my perferred appearance once I found one that suited me." She smiles at Gamora. "That is where my name comes from...it is a style of fashion on Earth. I liked it when I first wore it very much. It suits me. So I took it as my name."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You are from Earth? Like Peter?" Gamora's attention is instantly on Lolita, though not in a bad way. She considers her more thoughtfully, "He talks about it quite often." And, often in confusing, or frustrating ways. But that's not something that Gamora wishes to really voice. Instead she wonders, "You said you had questions about me?" The woman, clearly, has a good focus.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The dark-haired girl smiles. "Yes, I am. Though I am more recently there than Captain Quill." she admits. "I should really talk to him and let him catch up on some of the events that have happened since he left." <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the question, Lolita looks thoughful, then says curiously. "How did you meet Captain Quill? Or become a crew member on the Milano?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Peter ... is Peter," Gamora says, with a casual shrug of her shoulders. Then, she furthers, "After I nearly died in my attempt to assisanate Thanos on my own, I decided I needed to get stronger. So I began taking contracts myself, of my own violition. I had by then a reputation, which facilitated this," she explains, almost fact-by-fact. Groot is probably a better storyteller.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Peter and I clashed a few times in persuit of similiar, or like goals. And he was very stubborn." There is a longer pause, as she admits, "I had not helped people, before." Then, she shrugs again.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo nods along with Gamora's self-analysis. "Clay dries in the shape it was molded in. We're all the products of our experiences."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita listens thoughfully. "He was....stubborn about wanting you to join?" she says curiously. "You must have really impressed him. He does not seem like someone who would only value a person for their abilities, but for who they are."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There are some points that Gamora gets. And others, that she's not quite so sharp on. "I am the most dangerous woman in the galaxy." It's not a title she took to herself. It's one that was given to her. She frowns, "I am not used to ... Guardian...ing. But, I am not finding it unappealing." Then she sighs some, "For now, it is satisfying enough." Clearly, the woman is conflicted. Moreso with exploring her emotions and her place in the Galaxy than her choice to be here, now, with the crew of the Milano.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Without a word, Indigo spins on her heel (but a practiced that accounts for Riza 3's gravity) and walks away to a kiosk. She returns with two white, ceramic bowls that are almost perfect half-spheres, each filled with a melon-sized lump of something white and cold enough that it makes rich beads of condensation form in the tropical heat. "This is shamy," she explains as she hands a bowl to each of her companions; it's not an accident that she makes sure the small, child-sized spoons jutting out from under the scoops are expectantly facing each woman's dominant hand. "It's chopped ice bound together with heavy cream and egg whites whipped with sugar. You should eat it." She glances meaningfully at Gothic Lolita and gives a subtle but encouraging nod: 'carry on.'<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita tilts her head curiously, sensing that uncertainty in the sigh. "If it helps..." she says thoughfully. "I am...not used to being able to decide. On Earth, I had a target list, moving from one to the next after each mission was successful. But I'm unable to follow that list here...and I have no targets listed outside of Earth space. So I am...in the position where I can choose." She smiles a bit. "...I'm pleased you chose to be with the Milano then." she decides. "And we can learn to do Guardianing together."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And then Indigo breaks off to get the bowls, as Loli watches with curious interest, her eyes widening slightly in delight. "Oh! It's a bit like custard..." she says with interest, smiling at Indigo. "Thank you." She scoops up a bit, then delicately pops it into her mouth, savoring the taste as the sensors on her tongue try to make sense of the flavoring. She actively shuts off the processor that governs her taste from automatically trying to match it to an Earth food, curious what the more generic settings will tell her.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I have a job that I have signed us up for after our time here is concluded," Gamora tells Lolita and Indigo. However, anything else she was going to say is interrupted when Indigo presents the white bowls. She gives a speculative glance to the bowl, however, she's tasted Indigo's cooking before and clearly trusts the blue-skinned girl. She spoons a bit, tastes it, and she nods, appeciatively. "It is good," she agrees.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She takes another spoonfull. "You have been here before, then?" She asks of Indigo.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Is it like custard?" Indigo asks Gothic Lolita curiously, interested enough to forget to be shy. "All my recipes come from datastreams here in deep space, so I've never had experience with Earth cuisine." When Gamora asks a question, Indigo turns to her, delighted, and admits, "Not before I came here, but I'm familiar with the general recipe. It's most often made with no sugar in it, and only cream or egg, to use as a palette-cleanser. But, well, you can add sugar to almost anything to make it a treat. I'm glad you like it."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita mmms approvingly, obvoiusly taking her time to enjoy each bite as she nibbles it off each spoon, comparing her data internally. "It's...very much like it. The eggs taste a bit different, but not greatly so. Mm, I will remember this if we find it again, it's delicious. Thank you Indigo." she says with a smile, reaching out with an arm to give the other gynoid a gentle one-armed hug, before she turns her attention back to Gamora. "You do? What type of mission would we be on?" she says, looking interested. "I am not sure what sort of things you are normally hired to do." Though she has an idea it's decidedly in the 'morally grey' area at times.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Retreival. A colony has been stripped of a valuable artifact and is paying very well to get it back. No one has taken the job yet as apparently the artifact was taken by a somewhat large military force from a neighboring planet." Gamora shrugs, and then spoons a bit more of the rather sweet, but decadent treat. "Apparently it is sacred, and they feel their world will fall apart if they do not get it back. Which is why it was taken." Again, she shrugs.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:211|Indigo (211)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indigo frowns. "Then we should retrieve it. People should feel safe in their homes." She looks away and blinks rapidly for a while.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1187|Gothic Lolita (1187)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lolita nods in agreement with Indigo. "Most definitely." she agrees, frowning. "If someone did it to make people believe their world would die, definitely." She looks over at Indigo, then gently hugs her against her side lightly, wordlessly. Sensing she needs it. "AFter that, then, I have found an ally who also offered a job, though we would need to go back to Xandar to meet her, or communicate to her. She is a colony breaker? A...person who is hired to investigate when a colony goes silent. She said that she a colony that might be a covert research facility...she was supposed to find and extract two of the scientists, but she said she would happily let us salvage whatever we wanted from the site if we were to help her with it. Her name is Captain Cocofantuxian Toremno." She pauses. "Or Coco. She doesn't seem to mind that."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:161|Gamora (161)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Then we have two jobs," Gamora says, nodding to Lolita. "Good." She finishes her bowl, and finds the small recepticle where they will be recived to deposit hers respectfully in. "Excellent."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her gaze falls back on Indigo, "Do you have your own weaponry built in, or do you prefer hand-held weapons? One of the guns I procured and kept from H'rrash was a long distance laser rifle, meant for assassinations." Even in space, they have sniper rifles, of course. "I have used such before, on certain assignments. They can be quite effective. You are welcome to it."<br> <br>
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