United Heroes MUSH - User contributions [en]

16292/Archangel has Fallen Down

2024-05-28T12:24:13Z

PoeWolf:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/05/23
|Location=In a warehouse long forgotten
|Synopsis=Lucifer and Nathanielle make their way to the secret practice area of Five Times Novel to see if they want to book them.. Some of the people there are more than they appear to be.
|Cast of Characters=9039, 735, 231
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' In the quiet hours of the night, there are areas of the city and the places around that are incredibly quiet. Not because of those sleeping. But for the lack of people. The industrial sectors tend to have little ghost towns in certain areas with warehouses that no longer are used to store things. And most are left to a crumbling ruin. But then there are the more stubborn types. Those who understand that just because the original purposes is no more does not mean there can not be rebirth. As the camera pans across the motley crew of buildings in various states of disarray. One building stands, reasonably well kept together. From the gate outside there does not appear to be much in terms of life going on outside the building. The black paint upon the window hides all signs of what's going on indoors. And there's not even a peep to be heard. But inside it is another matter. While it does not appear to be a club of sorts, there is music being played. Five individuals spread out upon a stage. Two upon risers, managing a vast array of percussion equipment while on the lower level, three persons strut about, playing their instruments and tossing around the lead vocals as the song progresses. '...I sing for the fallen angels I carry them under my wings Frozen but still undefeated For the abandoned I sing Archangel rise, the trinity has synchronized A remedy for humankind (whoa, oh-oh) Archangel has fallen down Against the odds, we bring a bloodless sacrifice From hell on earth to paradise (whoa, oh-oh) Archangel has fallen down' There's a rumble of the instruments as they bring the song to a close, the heads bowing grandiously in synch with each other. Whoever did the soundproofing of the building was hopefully paid well. A bit away from what could be termed the stage area, a young looking man who appeared to be in his twenties is seated at a sizable assortment of sound equipment. Unlike the more comfortably attired musicians, there's a hint of pride to his chosen attire. Well tailored dress pants, a deep purple dress shirt with sleeves rolled up, and the top button undone. He has even worn a black tie around his neck but it has been loosened considerably. But even with that hint of relaxation, his hair is fully set in place. A short black well groomed hairstyle with the back of the dark hair cutting off an inch below the bottom of the ears. "Excellent!" He calls out. "Although I did get a bit of rushing about halfway through with the drums. You guys covered it up pretty well though. Was it planned?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer has brought Nathaniel along with him tonight. They actually take the car out to where Wade had told Lucifer this band meets for practice. So the ride was nice, and he's still got some of the songs Wade showed him queued up on his phone - which is connected to his car - so he and Nathaniel can listen to the band on the way in. We're not going to show the whole car drive. They do arrive at the warehouse and it takes Lucifer a moment to verify that they have - indeed - arrived at the right place. Getting out of the car, he waits for Nathaniel to join his side before approaching the warehouse with the windows painted black. "Wade said that I should knock once we get to the door. And if I didn't trust Wade, we wouldn't be walking up to this right now...but I do trust him. And so into the fray we go. How are you feeling?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Maybe Sin decided that what was needed was a little adventure after dark. Regardless of the truth of that, Lucifer started out with a Nathaniel and ended up with a Nathanielle. She appears to also be making up for her transgressions as best she can. Dressed in an absolutely atomic outfit, the voluptuous dominatrix piece of arm candy that she sometimes is, has been traded in for gothic majesty: Her entire outfit is made up of black and 'rainbow-black' feathers, from turkey and cockerel, raven and crow now doubt -- a high collar that arches like an elizabethan ruff down her back, a sleeveless number contoured to her torso and dipping into a sweet-heart 'v' between the girls. The skirt is split, the feathers there from primaries and tail pinions, layered like a bohemian gypsy affair, it flows and flares and flutters. Beneath that? Knee-high PVC boots bedecked in 'peticoats' of silver chains and skin-tight silk pants. Make-up is gothic, the motif soot and blood. "As ready as I'll ever be to be walking into a warehouse after dark, in a dress with the devil. What could =possibly= go wrong?" Lashflutter, grin.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As the THUNK upon the door echoes through the now quiet Warehouse, the performers glance to each other and then to the man behind the soundboard. The dark haired man gives a nod, lifting a thumbnail to his forehead before giving a tugging motion. Signal given, the band members scurry to nearby stands and stools to collect their masks and jackets, scooting off to behind a crate to quasi change. While the quintet goes through the motions, the dark haired man gets up from the soundboard and strolls over to the door. Waiting by it until he hears five distinctive thunks from the other side. KER THUNK. The heavyset door unlatches and the well dressed man looks over to the well dressed couple. Nathanielle's attire does get an appreciative glance before Lucifer gains a... slightly longer one. A brow lifts and lips twist into a smile. "Ah. I see. Good evening." He greets, taking in the pair before he shifts to the side, granting them access while he ensures the heavy object doesn't smack the guests on the way in, "Welcome." It isn't until the pair are in that the door is closed. "Wade has informed me that you might be coming by and that you prefer to be called Lucifer instead of using titles." He glances over to Nathanielle, "Unfortunately he failed to tell me about your beautiful companion." A slight bow of the head is given to the two of them. "I am William Wilkenson. You may call me William if you prefer."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer blinks as Nathanielle appears where he truly thought a Nathaniel would be. Looking her over, he gives an appreciative whistle and then offers his arm to her. "Anything, and everything all at once. Yet also nothing at the exact same time..." Then it's getting to the door and knocking as instructed. Once the door opens, he blinks a couple of times at the one before them. "Do you truly see?" Asking this with a smirk while leading himself and his companion inside. "Wade doesn't know that I often like to bring my companion with me. She tends to help me with hard decisions...and this one is proving a bit difficult..." To choose or not to choose this band, basically. "So this is Five Times Novel? I've heard some of your music. I am quite impressed. Apologies for crashing your rehearsal but I'm wondering if I could buy your night to give me and my lovely companion an impromptu show. Impress me further. I promise to make it worth your whiles..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "An admirable summise, my darkling dear," Sinister replies with a crooked smile, stepping up close and falling into perfect grace of step with him... except that when he lefts, she rights and quite deliberately bumps hips several times as they walk. But the pace, the tempo, is perfect. The door opening draws her gaze and then immediately to the man's eyes, which might be considered a foolish thing to do for some. But if she knows a vampire, he may easily know a psychic also -- once upon a nevermind, the gypsies were quite rife with them, after all. "He might well, indeed... although the diversity of that question makes the answer even more intriguing. Charmed, I'm sure," she extends a hand, palm down, knuckles up, as one is supposed to. But she does turn it just enough that the 'perfume' point of her wrist offers a tantalizing little hello. It's a thing. The rest of the band are given a slow, deliberate and delighted looking over. "So far, I do rather like what I see. I'm not sure if the sound is quite right for Pride, but we shall see."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' William gives a nod. "Ah. Well, One can not fault the decision to bring along an advisor. And one who knows of your needs but who has the capability of thinking differently. Those are quite ideal to catch what would otherwise be missed." Perhaps making direct eye contact is a foolish move in a general sense. But for whom? Having gained eye contact, William maintains the contact while addressing her before continuing on with the semi-formalities. Seeing the offered hand, William follows suit by bringing a hand up to lightly hold the offered hand. His head tilts forward, lips coming close to the knuckle, but adhering with the change in times, does not connect to skin. A sign of respect, but keeping from any romantic undertones. Gesture completed, William's head straightens up as he releases Nathanielle's hand. Greetings complete, door secured, Wiliam moves along with the couple, leading them further into the warehouse, stopping at around the soundboard area. Over to the stage area, the band members start to filter back in. Masks secured and color matched hoods put on, The important features of the performers are hidden. The hoods end up covering the hair region somehow secured to their respective masks. But due to the rushed nature of the attire, the lower jaws which are commonly painted to match in tone with the masks are untouched, giving a clue to skin tone. The fits of the jackets each give a hint to the gender underneath as well. As the ones wearing the Tigress and Owl masks are most definitely female. The Lion and Wolf are most likely male and the Cheshire? ...Well. It could go either way. "This is Five Times Novel." William confirms, extending an open hand to gesture to each of them starting with the Lion, Wolf, and Tigress situated on the lower level of the stage. "Over here we have Lew, London, and Kip." The gesture then moves, directing to the Owl and Cheshire Going up on the risers. "And Over there we have Rowl, and Carr." Of the grouping, The owl appears closest to concert readiness in terms of appearance as the jawline is reasonably close to the white of the owl mask. At least, from a distance. "Guys, This is Lucifer and his lovely companion. They will be listening in for a few songs." Explanation given, William moves over to his sound board and tugs the seat near it away, rolling it over to stop near Nathanielle. An apologetic look is given to Lucifer, "There was mention of you coming but not which day. I will be but a moment to get another seat." With a turn, William makes pretty good time heading towards an office area.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Sorry, I'm a man rarely without manners. This is my dearest and truest companion, Nathanielle." Lucifer won't use the full moniker, mostly because he figures it's likely better to let her give it away than him. The exchange of mannerisms is watched in a regard, but nothing more. His attention is taken as the band files back onto the stage in their masks and hoods. "Well, I do apologize for Wade not being very specific. But even I did not quite know when I was going to have a night free from the club I run. Every night is different, you see...and tonight was turning out tame enough we thought we'd pop by." As the artists are introduced, he nods to all of them. "Like I said, I've heard your music, and it's really an honor to get a sort of pre-screening for a show I'd like to book you for. You came highly suggested. Just play like no one is watching you.." You know, no pressure or anything. Just a job on the line and all that. A few of the members get a lingering look, especially Rowl. That jawline is just too pale for them to be only human - or human at all. He could have gotten the chairs himself, but best to not lay out everything on the line. Though he does have a wonder and finally just offers, "And yes. THAT Lucifer. There is only one, after all."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' The same way that she looked at William, Sin looks to Rowl. There's a deeply knowing smile, then a little nibble of her lip as she looks back, grinning around the gesture even as the chair is rolled over toward herself. "Nathanielle Morningstar," she informs, with an incline of her head. And an absolute and utter first. That was a first indeed. Never before! She looks briefly sidelong to Lucifer, a dash of the eye and little more and arranges herself on the wheely chair as decorusly as you can on such a seat. "I've dreamed of this band. Heard it playing in my head, over and over with a silent fascination haunting each lyric. It's definitely an honour and an enlightenment being here." She produces a little flask from between the girls and proffers it to Lucifer, a little celtic cross etched in the side. Whiskey, no doubt at all. Did we mention that was a first? Yes? Good.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Kip turns her head, looking towards William, lips parting. But whatever was on her mind is not said out loud. Instead there is a creak of an office door and then the rolling sounds of two more chairs being navigated over to the sound area. London glances to Kip for a moment before he speaks up, "Well. Welcome. THAT Lucifer." He replies, nodding to Nathanielle as well, "And Nathanielle." A pointed glance is given to Kip before he tilts his head. Lew considers the couple, seemingly making the connection with the name to the club that Drago resurfaced in. Kip pulls a slip of paper out of her pocket before unfolding it for a quick study. "...Number 5." With that declared and the extra seat presented to Lucifer, William takes the third to position himself back at the soundboard. Once he's settled in, he glances to the stage. "When you're ready, Kip." Kip nods, turning her head to look over to the risers, in particular Rowl moving over to the keyboards. As the beaked mask bobs in acknowledgement Kip lifts up a hand, counting down quietly. Upon the fist forming, there's the soft tones of the keyboard, filling the room before Kip starts to sing gently into the microphone. Now come, let me be your light There's a truth we can't defy Somehow it's time You won't deny it What got lost inside I have found it now There's a reason why I will love you endlessly And even if I cry I'll be there by your side For a lifetime And I will love you endlessly And even when we die You'll be there, by my side Endlessly...

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer takes his own seat, situated next to Nathanielle of course, and then listens as some members of the band greet them. There's seems to be no hesitation - which is good. At least one connection made in the brain. Even better. And when Nathanielle offers over that flask of whiskey, Lucifer takes it and enjoys a sip from the flask. He is, of course, a little surprised that she last named herself with HIS name, but it mostly brings a smile to his lips. An unspoken joy. He will have to keep that in mind for any future endeavors they embark on. None the less, the band begins to play. A seemingly lovely but somehow haunting melody. Listening to the lyrics, the music, and his closer hand reaches to take Nathanielle's own gently before giving it a squeeze. The whole of the song is lovely - not quite the style they may be looking for - but it's close. Something that couples could maybe dance to in between runway streaks. Those are a thing. When the song ends, he claps his hands together. "Very nice. Very nice indeed. Now, do you maybe have something that could show a bit of variety in your repitoire? What we're doing at Club Lux is a drag show in honor of it being pride month. So we'll need some music that these lovely queens and majestic kings can rock the runway with...." He offers this much, to perhaps see how they would plan to fit such a request.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' The expression of surprise, well, it's met with the fleeting glance again and an equally fleeting guileless smile with pearly whites and a return of the hand squeeze -- she turns her attention to the music though, idly bouncing the clasped hands very slightly on her knee where they rest in a silent punctuation of the melody. "I like that one, it... resonates..." she murmurs, trying perhaps to figure out how some of the strutting might occur in well turned heels. "...it would be a complimentary contrast to the lipsynch competitions and singular disco and pop tracks that will be inevitable. The ven diagram of getting the whole thing to cohese." The vampires in the crew are once more given a long looking at, then each of the others also.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' During the song, William's attention was focused primarily on the band, Making an adjustment here and there. While they did their best with the building in terms of acoustics, there were some sacrifices made to ensure a private place to practice. When Lucifer makes his prompt for a different type of song, William glances up slightly. So much for the pretend they're not there prompt. Kip glances to the manager and then pulls out the paper again, studying it for a moment. London shifts over, looking to the page. "...Ten?" Kip nods. "Ten." There's another set up and soon a driving beat is being played with an incredible usage of Na na na nas. It's definitely a beat one can strut to. Although the highlight ends up popping up with the chorus. '...We can make it hot hot Bring it on the rocks Round round down, right until you wanna drop Acting like a hotshot Drop it like it's hot So swing another round right, cause we will never stop...'

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer listens to the next song that they choose. This one he also nods his head to and he glances sideways to Nathanielle, giving a little smirk of approval. The whole of the song is played and once it's done, he applauds them once more. Not being able to help himself and then he tilts his head one way and the other. "Excellent. Wonderful. Yes." This much and then he glances over towards William, offering him a smirk. "So, from my understanding I can't really book them thru Wade cause he's not their actual manager. Am I to assume correctly that you would be the person I would actually work with to sign them for an appearance?" Asking this and then looking back to Nathanielle - perhaps to make absolutely sure she supports him with the decision of hiring the band.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' From the lady, there is no protest. She simply looks... pleased with what she just heard, gazing into a distant place as the notes of the song fade away. Eternity has a distinct calling, when you don't face it alone, perhaps? Perhaps. Or it could be that she's imagining the general layout of the set. "They'd have to come and do rehearsal sessions in Lux, to get all the sound right. Also..." with a click of the fingers, she looks across the band one at a time and to their manager. "If you have anything particularly special you want to bring to the field effects wise, I am quite of a mind to assist." A pause, a glance to Lucifer. "Darkling dear, should we perhaps address... other requirements?" You know, the ones that are probably a tacit secret.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As the song reaches an end and the applause starts from the visiting couple. The band on stage turns their masks to look over to them. William does so as well. The relaxed smile ever present as he takes in the praise for the band. He nods as Lucifer asks if he's the one to speak to but keeps quiet as Nathanielle has her say, and mentions the need for rehearsal sessions. There is another nod. "Along with running their sound during shows, I also act as their manager." He glances back to Nathanielle, considering her manner of carefully selecting her words. "If you would like to discuss a booking further, we could move this talk to the office area while the band runs through their practice. I'm sure shouting over them would get old rather quickly."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Since Lucifer has been informed that the band is sort of on a rotation of members, he deems it necessary to use a bit of decorum. So instead of addressing the band as a whole, there's a nod to Nathanielle and then to William. "I do agree with you, dearheart, but I think this is something we'll want to discuss privately so that the news can be shared....accordingly." He says this and then stands from his chair, offering his hand to Nathanielle to 'assist' with her standing up. "Whenever you're ready to lead the way, William. I would be happy to take a meeting with you now to get everything set up. Hopefully the band's availability will help narrow down what day we could set this event up for. Plus, as my companion stated, a few... items... in so far as safety and such....we'd like to also go over with you. For the benefit of the band and such, you understand."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Grace dictates the movement from Sinister, her smile sly as she rises but private for Lucifer alone it seems. Her attention drifts one last time, face to face, mask to mask with the band, gliding over surface awareness to gain the inkling of how careful they might have to or not have to be in the end. In a world of superheros and inhuman types, what exists among them is not that much of a shock any more. It does take the edge off. "Please, lead the way master Wilkenson, we look forward to discussing the nitty gritty..." And provided there's no great long hustle to the office, she is preparing cigarettes and in her case a holder a'la 20's to smoke it with, by the time human ears at least can no longer hear. "No pretenses on my part good sir, I am sure you are aware I know thee," -- it's the way she says 'know thee' that indicates this particular Truth. "I've been quite fascinated with what else resides under the same sky for a long while, for my own purposes -- and not to beat about the bush, but... are you of the sort that requires liquid sustenance, living sustenance, auric or psychic?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As Nathanielle does a bit of a subtle poll of the thoughts in the room. There is a general theme to them. A bit of music, a bit of fatigue from the world travel, a contentment of being back home for a month more before turn around and do it all over again. Lew looks over curiously to the couple. He had overheard mention of the Silver Round bassist a few times. Is there a potential collab with what they're shopping for? Another barely heard thought wafting around is the gentle wish for Poe to come back. There's even the mental image of a figure, hooded. Jaw painted to match a mask themed around a raven doing basic stick tricks backstage. William nods, looking over to the band. "Carry on guys." William states to the group, giving a nod as he moves to his feet. As he starts to lead towards the office area, the band is already picking out their next piece. This one with a definite beat to it. And with a very familiar rhythm to it. 'Want your bad romance Want your bad romance... I want your ugly, I want your disease I want your everything as long as it's free I want your love (I want your love)...' As the trio make it into the office, the door closes, blocking most of the sound, but the general heartbeat of the song is felt. Within the office there are some extra chairs scattered about. William takes a moment to make sure two are properly set up facing the desk before he walks over to his side. There's no laptop setting on the desk but a hand reaching into his pants pocket is probably a good indicator of why. The hand remains inside his pants as Nathanielle's words reach his ears. He turns his head, looking to her. "I am not surprised. I would assume it would take someone of great import to be able to wrangle the surname of Morningstar for their own." The hand slides out, pulling out his phone. "There are rules I must follow. So do not take offense if I do not give you your answers freely." Blood. Small amounts. The phone is unlocked and William switches over to the calendar app.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer smiles a bit. "Well. She may have had to work for it just a bit..." Saying this much with a soft chuckle before he does shift to take a seat at one of the brought forward chairs to properly face the desk. "You and the other aren't the type that need to be invited in before being able to cross the threshold are you?" He asks this with sincerity - after all it takes all kinds. Then he acquires a cigarette from Nathanielle's case, lighting it with a snap of his fingers. As with other times of their smoking, William may notice that no smell wafts from them, the smoke seems to disappear almost instantly, never filling the room. "First and foremost. You and the other will have access to the blood I keep on tap. You see. I have had a few visitors of your ilk come into my club. Up to and including Vlad Dracul himself. It -is- a synthetic blend, otherwise the amount of murders I'd have to commit or blood banks I'd have to rob would put me out of business in legal fees defending my actions alone. But, it has served the others just as well. If it's something you both think you can tolerate. It will be available. At no cost." This is offered, and just this for the moment. "I wanted that out there. Now. A Saturday in June...what are we looking at?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Normally, one would suppose it best not to ask where Sin was keeping her phone, but lifting her left arm up, she passes her palm over her forearm and extracts the device from her limb, in a completely non-gruesome manner. It simply floats to the surface of flesh that tends toward being malleable. She merely holds it in her palm, leaning over toward Lucifer's cigarette to light her own from his, neck extended in a terribly provocative manner, if one were to be tempted by such things. Holder held like a silver screen star, she eases into the seat she takes, with an air kiss to Lucifer. "I am not sure that importance is quite what I'm gifted with, but mostly unshakeable self-confidence, genius and an incredible portfolio of assets likely is," she replies drolly. The phone scrolls on, far faster than an ordinary device, but then it -isn't- an ordinary device by any stretch. "For what that's worth, the blood is of my own creation, from quite a lot of study of anatomy, physiology and proven self-experiment. It's quite fine and the undoctored version works on human beings too, which is a bonus on those rare occasions that I care overly much." She looks to Luci with a wink and back to William. "Well, formal invite is being discussed here with a contract date, so I think -that- point is actually moot."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' William cocks his head to the side to the mention of the other. "Venues are generally public places and not residences so that would not be an issue. As for performances within private residences, when you book the band, that is the equivalent of an invite to all those in the band, myself included to come to your location. As for hotel rooms, that would depend on who booked the room. But honestly, entering into private areas without an invite is just generally rude so it's something we all should practice." Despite William's previous comments to Nathanielle's beauty and likeliness of high import, There's not but a glance to the positioning she has placed herself in. The mention of her being responsible for the blood Lucifer is offering does merit another look to her. "Beautiful and Intelligent. Well, I see the the phrase 'Luck of the Devil' is not a stretch of the imagination. The synthetic blood shall suit. We generally avoid the human variety if at all possible." Rules. He looks back to the phone. "Lets see, factoring in lead up rehearsals, The 10th thru the 14th Or the 18th thru the 23rd would be your best windows for availabiltiy." There's a thought of a familiar brunet of ...confusing appearance smiling as he walks down the narrow hallway of a train's sleeping car. "Would the booking also consist of working with another performer?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer grins. "Believe you, me, it is I who is the lucky one. Nathanielle here puts me to shame most days of the week that end in 'Y'. The only thing I do for her is give her ways to be a social butterfly." The Devil offers this much, giving a side eye and grin to the female companion and then looks back to William. "If you or the other need some sort of secret name to call it so no one gets suspicious, just let me know. I've heard a bit about the band and how some members rotate - I think we discussed that in short before..." Or maybe that was with Wade. "So I don't pretend to know who may know and who may be clueless." He takes a drag off his cigarette. "As for date... Since my heavy turnouts are usually on the weekend, I think June 22nd would be a good day. Plenty of time for other events in New York to run and this will be the first of a full week's worth of heavy contenders to shine out the end of the month..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Sanguine mixology is a rarified art," Sinister informs, looking to Lucifer briefly with a fleeting little halfsmile as he waxes lyrical on good fortune, then down to her lap to gaze at her own phone, with questions asked and one in particular unanswered. She looks up beneath shaped eyebrows, gazes for a prolonged moment before the blink interrupts her own thought process. "There's potential to be working with another. There's potential to be working with the devil himself also, master William. I shall likely be on the stage at times, as I've been slid into the line-up for a sashay or two..." again, she glances at Lucifer and back, straightening her head with it. No more deference to her own lap. "Nick Drago in drag might be a thing." A pause. "And I think given that will place the event on the shortest night, a few suites at the hotel in Lux would not be out of order, hmmm?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' William gives a bit of a shrug to the suggestion of an alternative word to it, "Hmm... Sangria seems appropriate." He responds, thumbing over to the requested date. "The original members of the band are aware of the situation. Which is now down to Kip and London. Rowl is also aware of the arrangement." There is a tap upon the date, before he starts tapping in the information. "The 22nd will work." William for the time being is the mark of professionalism. Refraining from comments to the added information about other acts. But upon that extra tidbit being disclosed. The phone slips from his hand. Tumbling the phone looks like it's going to meet it's doom upon the floor but there's a sudden unnatural speed as William is soon kneeling on the floor. Resting on the flat of his hand is the phone. There's a general quiet from the manager. Before he sighs, straightening up. "That does sound like an interesting event." William finally comments, straightening up before he looks towards the phone. "I suppose, we could see if we can track down the attire from the Looking Glass video to fit in more with the theme." Nope. Nothing happened. Just business.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Well, it's for an interesting occassion. Mortals take their stock in Pride seriously...especially these days. And, well, I'd be a hypocrite of large proportions if I didn't throw my support in at the very least..." Lucifer says this with a half shrug given. He has to smirk when William drops his phone, almost losing it to the floor even, but then easily rights himself. "So. The 22nd, hotels rooms, Sangria is the code name for the blood....which means I shouldn't have any actual sangria in the bar that night...." He continues to mumble to himself, making mental notes and all that. "I hear the band will arrived masked...but if they need dressing rooms or anything...well the hotel rooms should work. And then we can sneak them out any time after the performance I'm sure. So..." He pauses. Thinks. "All of that said. How much is this going to set me back in my entertainment budget?" As if it has a limit at all.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Well, well, well, isn't that interesting. Lighting fast reflexes don't really strike as a surprise, but never-the-less there's a little 'tut' of the tongue when the phone almost bit the dust. "Careful there, those things contain people's very existences. Plus, almost nobody ever remembers their contacts lists these days..." she murmurs it, taps her own screen the once and glances absolutely innocently at Lucifer. Questions, questions, so many questions! Well, not really all that many of them, but there might be thousands of answers all dressed in green. "There's also a lot for us to be proud of Darkling dear -- love is all the colours of creation. I'll wear a rainbow and a bucket load of over-the-top make up and high heels for that. All six foot five of me." Well, THAT math doesn't add up.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' William nods, switching over to another app to start to build up the general agreement from the discussion. "If you do intend for Nick to join us, we'll make arrangements with his manager in terms of rehearsal. Hotel rooms the night before would be agreeable as that would maximize the amount of time for sound checks and the actual performances." Granted the stage attire do grant a considerable amount of UV protection to allow an approach from a different hotel. But, it would be nice to give them an area to relax without having to be encased in the stuff. He pauses, listening to Nathanielle's warning, "Noted. I will make sure to be more careful with my belongings next time around." The height stated gets another look before the phone wins out for attention. Another press of the screen and he steps over to the couple, turning the screen to show them the quote for booking. "Factoring in for the concessions so far."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer gives a smile to Nathanielle and an approving nod of his head. "I look forward to seeing that, my dearheart." He says to the woman and then looks over to William as the man fiddles with his device to then show him the quote for the booking. "Done. And please add an extra ten grand for yourself. And note that I will likely also be paying Wade a...mmn...finders fee...as it were." Which should also compensate Drago if the man happens to perform with the band at any given point. All things lead to goodness. He smiles again. "Yes. Just let me know how long you'd like them to stay. Could be the night before, could be a couple nights. We don't usually have a full house of people in the hotel, and I can obviously reserve the rooms for the band well in advance. Nick has his own personal room at the Lux as well." Then he grins. "I trust you to gather up all the needed documents to sign for booking and such. I'm sure it will also include some sort of NDA seeing as how the band is very hush hush." He pulls out his own phone then and transfers $20,000 to Wade via their normal process and notes 'Finders Fee + Possible Nick Performance' .... and then he crushes out his cigarette - likely doing the same for Nathanielle once she's finished with hers. "And with that. I believe our business is concluded? You are also, of course, welcome to come check out Lux any time you'd like. Before we open by appointment, or while we're open by VIP pass." Of which one is produced and offered to William then.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' A flourish of the cigarette holder and indeed, the cigarette is dispensed of. Sin's smile is bright. "This is going to be quite something, I feel. I don't normally ask this sort of thing, but I do so hope that you'll do at least a couple of disco covers between the acts -- it puts everything in the right mood, plus I would -love- to hear the band's spin on some of those anthems." She looks between the men, stretches her shoulders and cracks her neck left and right. "I'm quite excited for this. Formalities aside, business concluded, do you mind if I watch the band rehearse a little more? I do love the dynamics of watching how a team interacts. It's a little bit of a hobby of mine." She rises, grins widely and arches an inquisitive eyebrow.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' To the confirmation of the price and the added amount, William nods, making adjustments on his phone before saving that off. "You are generous." Wiliam responds, "I do believe we've got the basics figured out now. Once I confer with the band to make sure everything is covered, will you be preferring the finalized document to be sent over digital or hard copy for review?" To the mention of Nick having what appears to be a long time room he nods. "...He performs that often at the club?" He asks, hand lifting up to take the offered card. The phone isn't dropped this time. But one can almost pick up a momentary stutter of the mind processing it. And perhaps, a sense of relief. When the request to do covers comes up, William nods. "Of course. Disco, maybe a show piece or two- We generally are willing to work in a some covers if the booking party requests it. They tend to make for good practice pieces during rehearsal. If you have any particular song requests, you can send them my way." Putting the phone away, William moves over to the door. "And yes, you are welcome to stick around to watch the rest of practice. As the door opens, the full sound of the band performing another piece hits their ears. An easy rhythm that is just begging for audience members to clap along to the beat. 'Little girl You like it loud Come alive in the middle of a crowd You wanna scream You wanna shout Get excited when the lights go down At the rock show You'll be right in the front row Heart and soul, they both know It's where you gotta be... '
}}

16064/When the girlfriend's best friend has a problem.

2024-04-12T17:18:06Z

PoeWolf: When three friends get together, the things that they learn can be interesting and unsettling.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/02/17
|Location=Harry Dresden's Office, Kingston Falls
|Synopsis=When three friends get together, the things that they learn can be interesting and unsettling.
|Cast of Characters=174, 328, 190
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Harry is sitting on the edge of his desk, for once not piled with papers. He has one file in his hand and he mutters,"If half the legends are true, these things are to to be trifled with..." A bottle of Mac's homebrew is sitting just to his left. The tank that is Mouse is laying on the floor by the door. To his behavior, he is people watching. To those passing, he looks like he might eat them...or slurp them into oblivioun.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' "I appreciate your patience with me on this one. I figure I want to say it once instead of repeatedly. And no game of telephone. You know how bad I suck at that game." There had been nights of boredom when the trio of Buffy, Willow and Xander had hung out during their high school days, watching movies together and being kids. Who knew that was even possible for Buffy after her calling? Perhaps that was why she was so different from past Slayers. The pair had saved her life more than once, and not just from monsters. They were approaching the door and she caught sight of Mouse. Which was like calling a big guy Tiny. Thankfully, he had not tried to eat her up to this point. And her dream encounter with the big lug had been positive. Thus, she was not intimidated. Much.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow made a pshaw with her hand. "I'm used to it. With Harry we have had to learn things that work for us. Trust me.." She made ready to open the wards. "When your boyfriend can't use or be in the vicinity with technology, and you are a technowitch? You learn fast. or else you find another boyfriend!" She grins. "And I kind of like him. So we'll wait till we have him with us." Opening the door she peeked. "Harry? Got a minute?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Bounding to his feet, Mouse meets the ladies first. He is clearly happy to see them both and awaits a little attention. The tolls must be paid. Rolling his eyes Harry mutters,"Mouse, go be somewhere less under foot." He gets up from the desk, closing the file and picking up the beer. He nods and replies,"For you I always have time." he assures Willow and winks. Another nod to Buffy and he adds,"For the best friend I have time as well." He pauses and moves to the back of the desk and opens a drawer. Producing a leather strap with a pouch he brings it to Buffy, hand extended,"It will take you through the wards without the threshold effect. You can't lower it without magic ability that could be taught, this is just easier."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' Mouse gets his attention in the form of many scritches and ear rubs before Buffy lets Willow get her time with the massive furball. Then she takes that offered pouch, eyeballing it curiously but nodding when he explained. "Yeah, we have learned that I'm not the magic type. I do the punching. You guys do the fancy stuff." Which was oversimplifying but it was, in essence, how Buffy saw it. "I was told to consult with my redheaded friend but since it's involving you know who, I figure I need to spread the word as well. Though, it seems that some people already know he's around right now." Buffy took a deep breath then just said it. "Dracula is in Sunnydale. I already had sent out a text to the gang about it. Will and I talked a little. Seems he's met Faith as well and he's implied he's tasted her blood so I'm not sure what's up there. He keeps going on about me reaching my full potential by using the darkness that is part of a Slayer but I just feel like that's a really bad idea for some reason. Maybe cause he wants it. I mean, him wanting it, it can't be good, right?" She looked between them. "But he has apparently managed to get in my head. Said that I needed to talk to Will about my missing memory of about three years. I'm not sure /why/ as Will already knows about it but I wondered if either of you might have an idea why he's suggesting it?"

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "I'm not the punching sort. It works out well." Actually, Willow could hit after many years of practice. But let's face it - between a punch, or force lightning? Which one would *you* use? She hunkers down and pays her taxes to Mouse. "You are such a suck! In a good way." Leaning in closer, she whispers, "You're the only dog I like." "Huh?" Willow stands. "Me? Dracula? You? What?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Your life isn't challenging enough? Why not add a pompous ancient evil to the mix." Harry mutters softly and settles on the edge of the desk again. He knows about the memory loss of course. He's heard it from seveal points of view now. He strokes his jaw thoughtfully and mutters,"In my estimation you treat him like fey folk. No favors come for free and the price is rarely worthwhile." He studies Buffy for a moment and tells her,"OK. First thought is letting me open my third eye and look at you, second thought would be going and talking to Bob, and my last thought would be a soul gaze. That is the last line. Willow and I have shared it, but it's the sort of thing you see each other on every level and you never forget it. It's a bit...much." He glances to Willow and winks,"Nasty thing playing all of you now it seems. Fighting Faith and living gives me the impression he's really good." He smirks as Willow's antics with Mouse and his happy dances when both ladies pay with pats and scitches. After the toll is paid, Mouse lays infront of the door, feeling the tension change in the room. Time to hold the fort while the bipedal smooth skins figure something out. There is a wisdom and understanding in his eyes that is way too sage to be a regular dog.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' He laid out the options and Buffy considered carefully, looking between them as she tried to understand what exactly was being said. "Molly had looked in there a while back and she didn't think my brain had been tampered with. Will and I have tried finding spells that might be responsible and everything else but with no real results. So I'm game for just about anything at this point." The list went through her head. "I don't know what a third eye is other than sounding creepy as hell but I'd say if you are just looking at me then sure? Soul gaze sounds intense but again, I'll do what I need to. And...I guess I need to know who Bob is before I can even weigh in on that option."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' While Harry is listing off the options, Willow is still trying to figure out what Dracula meant. Was he giving clues to Buffy about Willow's behaviour? It wouldn't be unusual for him to plant the seeds for someone else to read the flowers. But wasn't he wanting her to be susceptible to him? That didn't make sense. He would have had better luck planting the seeds about Rack. That one she was even more closed up about his existing. Even thinking about her sessions with him made her skin tingle. And the power she felt while during the sessions.. ohhhhhh.. She made a mental note to return to Rack. And soon. "Bob is a pervert." Is all Willow says.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Molly looked into it?" Harry asks curiously,"Glad she stayed around long enough to be of some help." He sounds a little less than pleased with his apprentice,"So she doesn't think you brain was tampered with? I wonder what she did as far as looking." "As for Bob. He is a spiritus intellectus. He is an old pervert's mind trapped in statis. He can't die, but he can't live either. Sometimes I let him out, but never for long and usually I make his spirit inhabit my cat. He does less damage that way." He considers and admits,"The third eye will show me anything magically wrong around you. Soul gaze shows me everything. So I am thinking Bob, then the third eye, and if get nothing we consider the Soul Gaze."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' "Oh goody, the pervert." The sarcasm is practically dripping off those words. Though Buffy quickly continues from there in a more normal tone. "Spiritus Intellectus. So he's a smart pervert. Hopefully." She had to consider. Stuck in stasis but sometimes allowed to possess the cat. She almost felt sorry for the cat. Though she did add to answer his question on Molly. "No idea what she was looking for but she said my mind hadn't been tampered with that she could tell. So it wasn't like a memory spell or something, I guess?" She waved a hand in the air. "This is why I leave the magic to you guys." Meaning him, Willow, Molly, Nick, and whoever else had the genetics to allow them to dabble.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow crinkles up her nose. "He wanted me to take him out. I said I would ask. It's not as if he would have a good time with me?" Meanwhile the Willow who made the deal with Bob wasn't quite so innocent as she seems. But she has to admit, Bob is smart. And knows a whole heck of magic. Probably more than Harry and she put together. Then again, according to Thomas no one asks Willow for advice on very important magical spells and paraphernalia. "Admit it, Bob is probably your best bet." Even if Willow kind of believes that they will have to use the soul gaze. Just a thought.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' A nod and Harry heads towards the hallway to the apartment. He lifts the throw rug and tosses it aside. In the floor is a trap door. He opens it and starts into the sub basement below,"Bob is probably the least invasive." "He thinks you are strong enough to free him. My word is the power that releases him, but you might be strong enough to force the issue. If you manage that he might be a rouge and esentially the council will look to destroy you."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' "Why would I release him?" The question was filled with confusion as Buffy looked from the disappearing Harry over to Willow. Then she sort of stage whispers to Willow, since she's not wanting to yell and thus be able to be heard down that trap door. "Did he do something he's being punished for? Cause I figure if you get locked in spirit form, you did something bad. Right?" Because now she had to wonder if he was some old pervert that was being held against his will instead of a bad person being punished for ...how long was he stuck as this spirit thing anyway. She didn't head down herself, waiting to see if Harry would return with Bob to this room. If Willow went down, then she would follow to the lower level unless told not to do so.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow giggles as she rolls her eyes. "As if. I mean, first I would have to break his binding. which I can't and wouldn't even if I could. And besides which, if I was able to free him, wouldn't I be strong enough to fight the council?" She quits down While Harry and Bob get ready to do their thing for Buffy.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Once he is in the basement, he frowns and takes his duster to hand. He reaches into the pocket of the coat and says,"On another front. Duke Ortega of the Red Court has put a bounty on the head of several of our allies. The three of us fetch a million each if someone snuffs us out." He places the paper on a table and mutters,"Flicum biccus." Several candles leap to life. On the paper is a list of who's who. Buffy, Willow, Xander ($5000, poor Xander), the Winchester brothers, the Halliwell sisters and their half sister, three more that Harry says are Charmed as well, Michael Carpenter, and a few more but those are the highlights. He leaves the paper for Willow and Buffy to examine and then moves to the desk, removing a rag and revealing a human skull.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' When it became apparent she was expected to follow, Buffy made her way down as well. She also made sure not to touch a thing. She knew better. Instead she kept her hands at her sides though that didn't stop her from looking at the various tables and what might be on them. At mention of the bounty, she moved to look at that piece of paper. "Seriously? What'd we do to him? I don't even know who that is." She knew that the Red Court were some sort of vampiric things. Not vampires in the sense she understood them. But more like ugly creatures that had different abilities. To her, they were just another type of demon and not truly vampires. She moved to the table and started to read the list more closely, looking for her fellow Slayer. Her hope? That Faith wouldn't be on it. That they didn't know about her. Though, if they knew about Thomas, they likely knew about Faith by this point. It was a slim hope but it was all she had. Other names she knew. Some? Not so much. Or if she had known them, she didn't anymore. Maybe they would figure out that memory gap and it might change.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Until Willow reads the paper she really doesn't understand what Harry has said. And then she reads. *blinks* "Is this because I didn't sign the accords?" She doesn't follow. "But that was with Thomas." Something about the Unseelie.. or was it the Seelie? She hadn't paid enough attention to him. At the time she thought it was silly.. a little witch such as her being bound by the Accords? And since then she has gotten a more clear view of her powers (depending on the day, of course) and she laughed at them thinking they could bind her that way? Ha! "Why would he do something so dumb?" Yes, Willow actually used the word dumb about a fellow being. "Poor Xander." His was below most of the others. Poor, indeed.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Faith and Harry are on the list of course. Like Buffy they are dangerous to their plans. Harry shakes his head and tells them both,"This is because he is looking to cause a stir. Most all of us have punched him in his nose potentially at one time or another. The rest are guilty by association and for being fighters against things like him. There might be something deeper, but I think for now we stay on our toes." "I signed the Accords, but I am on there. Thomas is not. That has to do with his standing within the White Court. The rest of us are just lucky. He might be up to more than appears, but for now I think he's just being a pest. I have an idea for him, but lets deal with Bob for now."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' "I mean usually there has been some sort of punching involved before people get that mad. Or if they have a reason to be afraid which--let's be honest, Red Court do." Buffy looked over at Willow, a little bit of surprise in her face when her bestie used the d-word. That really wasn't like Willow but it was a minor thing. Nothing really to be concerned about in this moment. Buffy would be unlikely to remember it later. "A bit on the nose there. It's like painting a giant target on his back when we've been leaving him alone." She frowned. "Until now." Then she got back to the situation at hand. Her eyes went to the skull that had been revealed. "If you get any information on him or his reasons, please let us know," she added to Harry.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "But, I still don't follow? I mean, I haven't done anything to make them believe that they should offer one million.. that's just crazy?" Even though she is beginning to believe she /is/ powerful.. very.. very.. powerful, there wasn't anything in her past to base this on. Unless.. they knew about her dealings with the Justice League of America? But nobody around here believed it? Well, maybe current Buffy did. And possibly Harry. Though she hadn't really talked about it to him. But the rest? They saw her as little sister Willow that scryed and put wards on things, nothing else. Taking a seat to allow Buffy to have Harry's attention, she contemplated the bounties.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Ortega gets off on power. He is in his stronghold in Mexico according to the intel anyway." Harry replies,"I think he is getting his jollies and if some of us die, it's worth it for him. I think when we go north to collect the nasty thing if we can keep it alive I say we drop it on Ortega." "Thomas and Nick think it might be a feint for something bigger. They might be right." Harry admits,"For now, we have another concern." He turns to the skull and says,"Bob wake up. We have to talk." The eye sockets glow orange as the slull wakes up. If Buffy looks close, the skull is surrounded by the worst kind of smut novels,"Harry I was just reading about Siri, surrendering her connection to the unicorns to let..." The lights in the eyes widen as he looks at Buffy and Willow,"Ms. Rosenburg. You look beautiful as always. Who is this magnificent creature with you?" Bob, instant creepy guy.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Ortega? Gets off on power. Hrm. Maybe Willow should pay this a visit. After all, maybe she could bump her bounty to two million? She smiles slyly while Buffy and Harry work.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' As the skull flared into life with glowing eyes, Buffy tried not to look as shocked as she was. They had told her the pervert was locked into something but actually /meeting/ a possessed skull that automatically was being as creepy as advertised. "His name is Harry and he is pretty impressive though he might take offense at being called a Creature," came the auto-quip from the Slayer. "I'm Buffy. Heard you know a lot of stuff. Hopefully the sort of stuff we need."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Harry shakes his head as Bob is...well Bob. Never easily shaken, he chuckles softly,"Harry is a creature. We all know that. I am far more interested in one with such strength." he muses. The glowing eyes shift to Willow and he adds,"Miss Rosenberg. You look delectible as ever. If you ever want to tra..." Harry's hand settles on the shelf and his words are soft,"Consider your next words carfully Bob. You are worth a lot to my research, but I could let Toot Toot take you for a while. See what hole you end up buried it." The eyes dim a little and Bob mutters,"You wouldn't." Harry shrugs,"I might do it just to see what it looks like. Now listen to the lovely ladies since both are capable of doing bad things to your skull here."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Oooooh. Harry was testy when it came to Bob and her. Not that she was interested.. unless you meant with regards to magic theory. ^Then, yes, she was! Not that she would let Harry know. 'Oh what a tangled web we weave/When first we practice to deceive..'

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' It was just creepy. And this from a gal who had fought a giant preying mantis woman and hyena possessed people. The curse to live in interesting times had certainly landed firmly upon Buffy Summers and friends. With Harry leaving it there, she suspected she was supposed to fill in the blanks. Pun not intended, considering the topic at hand. "A while back, I found I had lost my memory. Not all of it but specifically about three years worth of time. There was no head injury that might've caused the amnesia. We've tried to find a spell that might've been responsible. No luck. "Had a telepath look and there didn't seem to be anything wrong. No sign of tampering in that way. Even had Molly look. She said that there was no modification done that she could figure out either. So, we're at a loss." She paused, eyeing the skull. "You have any theories or ideas what it might be?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Can a skull gulp? It sure sounds like it. Bob coughs too. It is strange what he can do. He looks at Buffy for a long, quiet moment. The light in his eyes brightens for a time. Bob is quiet. Bob is never quiet. Harry crosses his arms and waits. This almost looks like a relief of his face. Finally Bob mutters,"There is nothing that has been removed. As much as it pains me to agree with Molly. At least she can't hear me." he finally admits. Studying quietly again and his eye shine narrows,"There's a..." Thoughtful,"...a glitch in time. The proverbial wrinkle."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "A wrinkle? You mean the theories of time and space can be.. used.. " Willow stops herself. "That's silly. Of course they are laws. Similar to magic. You need a portion of your brain turned on." Which is simplifying the facts. "So you mean.." She roots for a paper, and holds it so that it is like a full sheet of paper. Yet she has carefully folded a portion of it so that you couldn't see it. Until you looked at it in the right light. Or angle. Or.. "Like this. you just skipped this part for whatever reason. And now the paper is unfolded properly."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' It talks. It swallows. It coughs. How when it had none of the necessary parts? Magic. It was amazing and utterly terrifying in a lot of ways. Magic, not Bob. Though Bob was impressive in his own part that he was just looking at her and putting this together. How did his eyes narrow? It was like there was something there blocking the glow to give that impression. "TIme?" The surprise was there in her voice. She raised her eyebrows and looked over at Willow. The demonstration with the paper helped it to make sense in her brain. "So it wasn't that my memories were tampered with, it's that the time itself was removed in some way? It was a short amount of time so physically aging wouldn't have happened noticeably..."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Bob is quiet again and finally he says,"This was the one that dated Thomas for a time. The one he undoubtedly would have fed from. There is no sign of that either." he continues. When Bob gets on a course it is better to wait and watch. Harry looks at Buffy, then Willow, and then back to Buffy. His right eyebrow raises a little curiously. He doesn't speak and Bob comments,"I would be curious to see if Faith shows any signs of it now." Sometimes Bob needs to know when to shut up.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow frowns. "I guess it is possible, but he's your brother? And will haven't determined who is responsible for the wrinkle. It doesn't sound like anything that Thomas would be capable of. Sorry, Harry. Just calling it as I see it."

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' "I don't remember obviously but I would think he might have? Or could have?" Buffy considered. "I remember my phone, there were pictures of me with a white streak in my hair. Which wasn't there after. I thought it was just a bad fashion choice that I'd changed later but now it seems very different." She brushed a hand through her hair briefly, more an unconscious movement since she was considering that streak she'd seen in the images. Then she shook her head. "At least we have an idea of what it was even if we don't know how it happened. It obviously didn't affect the area as no one else has that memory lapse so far. Or missing time I guess I should call it now. You guys were all fine." She considered the question. "I don't talk to Faith much so if you see her, definitely ask if she's missing time too." Then a glance to Willow. "Is it a question of someone did it to me--or us if it turns out not to just be me--or was it just some weird Hellmouth thing that happened and wasn't targeted."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Your existence is tainted by the presence of the Hellmouth." Bob replies,"I can see that in you. If you were to soul gaze with someone they would see that too. It isn't a bad thing. Look at it like a battle scar and a badge of valor or something." Bob sighs and admits,"I could dig deeper, but I think I have the worst of it. The concept anyway. Things would get very personal to look deeper." He pauses for a beat and then adds,"I would be willing to go so deep of course...as deep as..." Harry glares at the skull and Bob tsks,"Some people have no sense of imagination." He looks to Buffy again and pauses. The eyes flare again and he is quiet. Very quiet.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "That could be it? That would make it an anomaly without any parameters. And because we have no way to test it, and shut it down.." Willow frowns even deeper, "If it were a person who did it, it would be simpler to hunt them down. I say it's a person." She looks to Harry, and nods. "It can't hurt." The Soul Gaze, she means.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' As Bob starts down the perv route, Buffy rolls her eyes a little but he is quickly put back into place by Harry's glare. Though then he goes quiet again and seems to be staring at her. Which makes her even more uncomfortable and she fights the urge to fidget. Buffy glanced over at Willow with a grin. "I think I've been a bad influence on you. Always easier when there is something to hunt."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "You've been...bitten." Bob comments softly. He has calmed down, well for Bob,"Was it sexy as something from Anne Rice?" Of course he would take that road. Harry scowls at the skull and takes the cover in hand and place it over the skill,"You're done." he grumbles and then leans on the table,"As I said before, we can do the Soul Gaze as well, but I think it's pretty much going to tell us what Bob said. Usually the gaze will reveal the deepest things about what makes us what we are. We can or we can not. Maybe you and Willow could. I know you are very close, but Willow has done it now so she understands the pathway to it if you would be more comfortable."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow blushes. "This time it's true!" At least if they wanted to get to the bottom of it. Of course she could be wrong. "Ew? Bob, we do not want to hear about Buffy's love life. Especially with Thomas. Ewww." Then she hears Harry. "Me? Really??" She never thought of that before.

:'''{{#var:328|Buffy Summers (328)}} has posed:''' Buffy's complexion matches Willow's as a blush creeps into her cheeks. She certainly had been bitten. But it had been by Angel. She didn't even think about Thomas since she didn't remember her time with him. She is glad to move on to other things and focuses on the situation at hand. "We can do the Soul Gaze if you think it's needed. If it will show what happened to the time or who did it. But if it's just going to confirm it's a time thing, not sure how necessary it'll be. I'm game either way." But then she has to ask the question that is on everyone's mind. "Who's Anne Rice?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' From under the cloth Bob object,"Intfiew wif the Vumpire. Vampire Lestat...really?" His protests are muffled, but now Buffy will know who Lestat is when she encounters Dracula. Bob taught her. Harry shrugs and tells Buffy,"I can't say it won't hurt per say. You'll have a part of me stuck in your head and nobody wants that. Well not many." he amends and looks up at the trap door,"Come on you two. We can go to Mac's and get some dinner. I'm buying." He starts to put out the candles.
}}

16130/Watchtower Duty

2024-04-12T17:17:52Z

PoeWolf: Angelica and Willow encountred each other as Angelica was ending her Watchtower shift and Willow was starting hers.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/20
|Location=Monitor Room, Watchtower
|Synopsis=Angelica and Willow encountred each other as Angelica was ending her Watchtower shift and Willow was starting hers.
|Cast of Characters=1014, 190
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Watchtower duty. Most probably dread it, but Angelica voluteers to cover for others sometimes. Tonight is one of those nights. Willow was supposed to relieve Black Canary, but it is definitely not Dinah at the board. She looks at each screen thoughtfully and tries to listen to all the channels at once or at least most.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Usually, Willow was on duty on the weekends. Lately, though, she had been switching her shifts to free the weekends and be able to visit Rack. So far Willow had been very careful to make it to her shifts, unlike her schooling. There? She had been playing hookey. Which wasn't a big problem. Everyone skips. Unless you were Willow. She /never/ skipped. Never. Until now. And the number of classes she made it to was getting less each week. Willow didn't care. After all, she knew the stuff backwards and forwards. Why did she need to go to class? The TA hours were beginning to be a problem. But so far she managed to pick up extra hours to make up for the ones that she had missed. Barely. But today? Oh, what Willow wouldn't do to be in that office floating around, instead of here. in the computer hub of the Watchtower. *le sigh*

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Angelica looks at the new arrival. She nods to the other red head and then looks at the controls again, shifting channels,"Evening. I'm Angelica." she offers conversationally. She changes one of the pictures and glows it up bigger to see what is going on there. Pursing her lips thoughtfully, she nods and change the pictures again,"Let me know when you are ready and I will get out of your way."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "Oh!" Willow forced a smile. "I'm Willow. Don't worry. I'm not a powered user. I'm a magic user." Then she smiles."I'm good at computers though." While she makes herself at home, she pulls out a container of cookies. "Help yourself. I usually bring them on the weekend. You're in luck, I baked today. Chocolate and peanut butter. You will have to tell me if they are good."

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' "Hello Willow. I't nice to meet you." she replies and starts to get herself logged out,"I wish I was a little better with computers, but I get by." She looks at the cookies and she takes one,"Thank you. I warn you though, if I like them I will be asking for a recipe." she offers lightly,"As you can see at my hips, I do like sugary goodness." She does have hips, but they are the type most models would kill for. Still, she is a little self concious.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow laughs. "So far I have avoided the poundage. I should be careful. We Jews tend to put on our sorrows with weight, or so my mother tells me. And if you would be more comfortable, you can turn on the filter that takes out the normal things and focuses on the bigger ones. I mean, the filter keeps them on track. But usually those one don't amount to anything. You can trust the computer to notify you if they become a problem. It might help you." She, herself, still liked to look at all the problems - big and small. At least she used to. She showed up. Nothing was ignored. But lately she was bored. And that was a cause for concern.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' "I try to keep up, but I might have to try the filter next time. At least until I get a better at keeping up with everything. I am trying to get used to cycling the audio on opposite channels than the video. It takes time I guess. I had an uncle that watched one baseball game on the television without volume and listened to another on the radio. I sort of get it now."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "It's kind of a talent?" Willow grins. "But you get cookies no matter your skill! Just for being here." And so that Angelica doesn't forget, Willow shoves the container of cookies to where Angelica would be hard pressed to forget them. "You can keep them. I took a bunch for home?Wait a minute.. Titans?"

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' "Girl's got skills for sure." Angelica replies and takes the cookies that are pushed to her,"Thank you." she comments taking them and vacating the seat so Willow can get logged in. She shakes her head and replies,"Justice League. Probationary at the moment. I was with Alpha Flight for several years. My dad put me in a school that lined me with the Hellions for a year and their Hellfire Club. Unfortunate for them, when pushed they discovered who really had the fire."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow giggles. "I was instrumental in rescuing Superman when he was held hostage on Apokolips. I guess that was my probationary time." Cocking her head, she wonders, "My friends.. I never have told them.. Except for Spike at first. Then Buffy and my partner Harry. It's weird, most of them don't know about this. And I don't wear a costume!" Then again, she is mostly on Watchtower duty. There wasn't a whole lot of things which needed a magic user.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Angelica gets a cookie and bites into it. She mmms softly and after a moment she nods,"Superman is nice. Batman scary. Diana is an absolute doll." She winks,"Good cookie. Must have recipe." she adds. Recognition sparks in her eyes and she says,"Buffy. Vampire slayer? You know her? She's amazing. I met her a while back. She pointed out a vampire and killed it. She taught me a few things. Great woman."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "Yep. That Buffy." Willow shrugs. "That's my primary superhero job. Except we aren't superheroes. And everyone knows Buffy. No one knows her sidekick Willow. You are right though, she kicks tushy." Willow preens, though, about the cookies. "Give me your email address and I can send the recipe to you."

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Angelica grabs a pad and pen. She scribbles down her email address and tells Willow,"I think you two have to be heroes. If you deal with those monsters on the regular." She shakes her head and adds,"Well I know Willow now and I am glad to meet her. I was sidekick to Spiderman so I get it. I love him to the moon and back, but it is a hang up being the side kick."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Taking the note, Willow puts it into her satchel, amongst other things, and closes it. "Well, I know /of/ Spiderman, but I've met you! And you are right, Batman is scary. Superman is a dear. And I helped rescue Diana! That was pretty cool too. Not as cool as Superman's rescue, but it was on earth, so, the biggest thing I did on earth?"

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Angelica smiles and puts her bag on her shoulder,"And it's been a pleasure meeting you Willow." she replies,"Thanks too. Makes a girl feel a little less side kick. If you get a chance though, meet Spidey. He's the greatest man I have ever known. Despite what the Daily Bugle says about him he's only a menace to your nerves when he starts being clever witted. He's hilarious, but he doesn't need to know that."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow puts her satchel under the desk of monitors. "I always prefer to know a person without other people's opinions. Sometimes the strangest people surprise you in the oddest ways." And she has helped vampires before.. so.. "Anyways, your time is over, and mine is just beginning. Call me sometime when neither one of us is on duty." She waves, and starts to set up for her time.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Angelica waves,"Probably you are right." she agrees. She heads for the exit and admits,"There are some strange ones out there for sure." With that, she goes to the teleporters to get back to the planet.
}}

16133/The Night Market

2024-04-12T17:17:44Z

PoeWolf: Lucifer and Nathaniel take Nick to the Night Market. Lucifer finds a treasure he wasn't aware was stolen and Nick happens upon a magical mirror that Nathaniel purchases. An interesting night, indeed.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/21
|Location=Lucifer's Penthouse, Melville
|Synopsis=Lucifer and Nathaniel take Nick to the Night Market. Lucifer finds a treasure he wasn't aware was stolen and Nick happens upon a magical mirror that Nathaniel purchases. An interesting night, indeed.
|Cast of Characters=735, 231, 9039
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer has actually been in a very good mood all day, getting everything for the club sorted early and making sure he has enough coverage so he can take the night off for a special occasion. It's late evening when the text to Nick is finally sent, <You awake? Dressed? Up for an adventure? Come to the Penthouse. ~L.M.> Then, the Devil gets dressed in his best attire with gothic flare. The suit is silk-lined velvet of midnight blue, with a deep blood red handkerchief tucked in the left breast pocket. As he's getting ready - and of course he's relayed information to Nathaniel about the plans for the evening - he's in the bathroom giving himself a bit of a priming. "It's always exciting taking someone new to the market. I just hope Nick enjoys himself.."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' The man in the mirror does look dashing. The other man in the mirror BEHIND the dashing figure, smiles at the reflection. Arms reaching around, there's that tiny extra fuss with the tie, smoothing lines with a smile on his face, crooked. "I just hope he doesn't get dragged into something ridiculous, that's always a possibility there, considering..." Sin has a top hat. It has black cockerel feathers in the brim, that hang over the edge in a waterfall -- the fascinator matches the rest of the attire, very victoriana, with the collar of the black snake-skin frock coat bedecked with more such cockerel feathers, exacting graceful arcs toward gravity. Silver cufflinks over a crimson shirt, stick out from his sleeves, with fine moleskin to finish things off in gloves and trews. Purple lennon shades rest upon his nose today. "By the by, did a shipment come in? Or is there a surprise that /I/ am liable to be intrigued by, also?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' The first signs of the musician's arrival is of course a musical one for those tuned in for those types of thoughts. Seems like forever been singin on this song I've been tryiiiiiiin too hard, too long Seems like forever been singin on this song Like forever been singin on this song'</span< Whoever said 'the devil is in the details' never got a text message from one. As Nick reads the text, there are several questions that come to mind. But being no attire is specified in said message and the key word of 'adventure' is in there, Nick dresses comfortably. As the elevator doors part open, the musician's revealed to be wearing simple fare. Jeans, a dark colored shirt, and a knit cap. What? It's still cold out. Stepping out, Nick looks to the pair in their respective attire. There's a pause before Nick reaches into his pocket again to tug out his phone, bringing up the text message again. "...Is there a dress code where we're going?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Little of column A, and a bit of side B. Shipments come and go... but we might be delighted in what's on offer this time. Plus, Nick will be in our company and not much goes wrong when the Devil visits the Night Market." Lucifer says all this and smiles gently at the fuss being given to his attire. "Also, I love your hat. Well the whole ensemble, but the hat is..." And he gives a chef's kiss. After the fussing is over, and all the priming is done, he steps out of the bathroom and down the hall to the living room just as Nick arrives. A glance over to what the man is wearing and the smile never falters. "Not specifically, but I -do- like dressing up when I go where we're going. This will be Nathaniel's second trip and your first." He offers. "A couple things. The currency is weird. There is an ATM to withdraw cash, but you then have to get it exchanged for the currency of whomever you're buying from. If anything. If it gets too confusing, just let me know and I can help you out." He chuckles. "Also, don't ever buy from the man in the red feathered cap. He's a cheat, and his stuff is always knockoffs. Wander, but not too far, and if anything feels really off... like even for US off, tell me and I'll deal with it." He looks back at Nathaniel. "I think that covers all of it. Now, I can get us to where we need to meet the train and we have...." He looks at his naked wrist. "Ten minutes before it departs, so, off we pop!"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "I was a little inspired by your last venture," Nathaniel takes a step back, tipping the top hat in the most dashing and suave manner possible, complete with rolling it up his arm and elbowing it back to his head in a not-so-subtle bit of chicanery. There's a glance to the elevator, the prelude of a song that has him looking straight at it whilst the doors open and emit the Phantasm. "Nick, as Lucifer said, he's got a dandy streak when it comes to making impressions on the street. You will blend in like a sore thumb in amidst the annual blind carpenter's convention first aid tent. Don't worry." Sin can't help but silently chuckle at that last, though. A hair past a freckle tells one's own internal chronometer when the mystical is about to impact on the world in that specific way that it does. ANd so, therefore, he tucks a hand in the crook of Lucifer's elbow and looks to Nick expectantly. And just in case that wasn't obvious enough -- "I'd hurry up and loop in on your uncle."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' When the lack of a dress code is confirmed, Nick gives a nod. Well that's good. He quiets as he listens to the explanation for the rules and the mention of various currencies to deal with. "...So is this an international market?" Sinister's prompt causes for him to blink. "Oh-" That type of transport. Taking a page from the Phantasm playbook, he makes his way over to the couple, reaching out a hand to touch upon Lucifer's arm.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' This time it's not steps, but a simple engulfment of flame that doesn't seem to burn and then they are at a train station. Familiar in that there are sounds of hustle and bustle behind them, but this platform seems to be a bit...out of place. When they arrive, the train is boarding. It's a bit...ghastly looking. The cars appear to be in rough shape on the outside, but Lucifer simply strides towards one of the cars, keeping Nathaniel's arm looped into his own. "International is...one way to put it. But, also, not really the truth." He begins before he shows three tickets to the coachman who then lets them board. This is one of those cars with separate quarters for people to sit in and Lucifer chooses one for the tree of them to slip into. (Think the train cars from Harry Potter.) "We are going to a place called the Night Market. It's ran by the mystics. All walks of life come here, divine, other-planar, alien...whatever you wish to call them. They sell artefacts, furniture, knick-knacks...and for decent prices too. This is where we went to furnish the penthouse with all you see in the living area now." He smiles. "I thought you might appreciate at least a visit to see it."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "So naturally, the currency is all kinds of weird, depending on who you trade with. I think I bought an antique curio cabinet for two sneezes and a smile, last time." A pause as the train boarding continues around, he doesn't release his arm from Luci's until they're in the little 'first class' compartment. He settles facing the way that they'll be travelling, the seat by the window open beside him. Fog seems to be curling on the other side of the panes of glass that form the window, which was not present in the station itself. He considers that, as he stands, waiting for the others to settle, like a gentleman. "I doubt that I shall be so lucky in the payment this go around, but you never know. How have you been, since Harry's by the by?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As the group appears in the station, Nick releases Lucifer's arm and glances about. When the train comes to view, Nick raises a brow. Well, they certainly have a bit of a vibe going for them. Although it is a stark contrast to the high speed ones he spent considerable time on when touring China. The inside is nicer though. Not quite like the deluxe sleepers but- they're only going shopping, not overnighting. Sliding to the bench seat across from the couple, he glances to the window, peering to the platform outside. "Ok, so various realms as well." Hmm. Makes sense. Looking over to Sinister, he nods as he explains the payment system. "Maybe this time around you'll get something for a song." Nick chuckles at the small joke, before glancing to the window. "Well...I already met Rogue a few times. Logan seemed..." He pauses, "...I'm not sure what to make of him. He's-" How does one describe Logan. "...He seems like he's seen a lot of shit."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' It doesn't take long for the train to finish boarding. Mostly because, as one might have already discerned, not a lot of people board this train to begin with. The tickets are bought special, Lucifer had to plan this in advance. So it isn't too long after they've sat and settled that there are calls of 'All Aboard!' and the train whistle blowing to indicate a soon departure. "I do not know him well at all. He doesn't like me. He believes in me. Believes in the evil that I supposedly stand for. And that's all he sees. There is nothing I can say or to to disuade him of that notion. And the fact that I am partnered in life with Nathaniel...seems to irk him even more." Is said idly with a single-shoulder shrug before he smiles gently towards Nathaniel. "But he seems to be a man who marches to the tune of his own drum - of that I am most certain." Then he switches back to the other topic. "Maybe a song will get you something. A punch in the face something else. But there are creatures who deal in actual currency of sorts. Hence the ATM and exchange booth. But also, I have plenty of funds in several sources...and I do not mind spending it on anything you might find interesting." A pause. "I could use any excuse to rid myself of most the currency I have, actually..." Ending with a chuckle.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister grins at that last. "You've had a long time to acquire it and not really much opportunity to spend. Frankly, you could probably sit pretty on some of it for eternity and still never run out." The cabin seems destined for a cigarette holder, roaring 20's inspired though it is. A trio are set out from his inside pocket, just in case of desire and Sin settles just as the train begins to roll out. Soon, the locale of NYC fades out from the windows, replaced by flashes of lurid colour and ice-laden fog. It swirls against the panes and occasionally makes it creek, rather ominously. This is ignored by the doctor though as he lights up. "The irony of his being world weary and having seen a lot of things is that he's not even sure how he knows things these days. Memory issues... I doubt he'll ever perceive the fact that he /volunteered/ for the treatment he was put through by the military. But yes, the devils you know is playing issues with him there, Lucifer. It's one of those few circumstances where it's because of -me- that you're painted with tar."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Well, when someone forms an opinion with little basis, and it seems like they're never going to change their mind regardless of what you do, there's little point worrying about it." The offer to help out does get a thought... he's not sure what he'd buy at a mystic market but- still the offer's a nice sentiment and appreciated. Nick looks over to Sinister as he explains the connection between him as Lucifer as being a source of the condemnation. "Guess that doesn't bode well for me either." Nick comments, smiling to the doctor. "Even though Betsy was the one doing the recruiting it seems like he assumed you did." He gives a shrug, "He still seems willing to work with you with that issue though..."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer takes one of the proffered cigarettes from Nathaniel and lights it with a snap of his fingers. The smoke escapes from the slightly open window that also lets in a waft of fresh air every now and again. As the train continues onward through the fog, the fog seems to get thicker and thicker as they continue down the track. Of course, having been on this train a few times, Lucifer seems unbothered by this. Like it's a usual occurrence when taking this trip. The train ride will last a good half an hour before it comes to a stop - but Lucifer doesn't move. A mass of people disembark and then the train blows it's whistle once - sounding normal. Twice - normal again. Yet on the third time the whistle has a bit of an ethereal sound to it, like something from another world. "Now the real journey begins. Hang on to yer pants..." Lucifer jokes, settling back with one hand on Nathaniel's lap and then other streched out against the back of the bench.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' The arrival at their destination is heralded on the part of Sin, by closing his eyes and resting his head back on the stuffed apolstery of the private cabin, chin lifted and listening with something other than his ears. The third whistle is what brings about the grin -- which only gets wider when his lap becomes an object d'affection. Though that in and of itself, has him spocking an eyebrow up. "Are we to be travelling in insane style, or are we just waiting for the rush of disembarking to slow down a bit?" is asked, even as he's giving the hand in his lap a squeeze. The chances are strong he's not waiting for an answer though, as he's rising and proffering a hand to the Lord of Hell as the cabin door slides open unbidden. Eyes turn upon Nick, looking over the top of his purple shades. "A little word of warning, don't eat the food, unless it's from an actual vendor. Mostly, the market is above board and has its own policing, but there's an occasional unscrupulous unseelie about."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' When the train comes to a stop, Nick glances out the window initially to see where they ended up but seeing no one else in the group getting up, he remains seated. His head turns, observing the shadow of persons walking by the door to make their way out. He looks back to the couple. Sin's advice gets a nod. "...No such thing as a free meal." He sums up, giving a nod. Free drinks too. No telling what other things someone might wake up on the floor finding themselves with...

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer takes the proffered hand and stands as well, giving a chuckle to Nathaniel's questions. "Well, there's two stops technically. One is the final stop for regular folk, and then once the whistle goes weird, we've arrived at our stop." He explains this and then begins the walk to disembark the train. There's a nod of agreement to the warning given to Nick but he doesn't speak much more on the subject given Nathaniel offered a fair warning. As they disembark from the train, the fog eventually seems to part - almost like someone is ripping the clouds in half - and the pathway leads to an open market. Vendors of all sorts, shapes, and sizes are peddling their wares. Some talk in gibberish langugae, others speaking English, but that all depends on who they are talking to. As customers are also from all sorts of places, planes, planets and the like. This is definitely a mystical melting pot. "If you decide to walk away, never go too far if you don't mind. But if you find yourself in trouble, just...tell us. However you can." Is offered finally as they take their first steps within the market proper.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Even the architechture is otherworldly, as if the place was grown, like a seed in the soil, out of living rock and the city itself. Girders and concrete mix with bark-like stonework to hold up a roof made of apparently... solid air. It does not APPEAR to be glass at least, though a late March sleet is being suspended high above, on seemingly nothing at all! There's little that can compare so far as senses go; the sights are one thing, the sounds another, but the smells? Impossible to describe, as some of the tantalizing and torturous aromas do not come from this world. Or even this /plane/ chances are... and the human olifactory arrangements don't quite know what they're making of it. Maybe J.K. Rowling dreamed of this place when she wrote of diagon Alley? As Sin crooks his elbow, to link arms with his partner, dragonfly people zip from a ledge above on the station platform, holding tiny bolts of brightly coloured fabric.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Once the explanation to the whistle change is given and the other two are both standing, Nick shifts to his feet. He follows the pair off of the train, and once they start making their way towards the market, Nick looks curiously to the two. "...How long until we need to be back at the train?" Pale eyes scan across the scenery, looking for anything that catches the eye. The rocker's steps slow to a stop as he takes in a breath. What is th- Right. Don't lose the ones who know where they're going. Nick's steps quicken, working to cut down on the lead the couple has.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Suppose I'm used to the smells... or maybe spent just enough time in Hell, weird smells don't really get to me..." Lucifer says this as he looks up and around, spying the dragonfly kin and their fabric. "Oh. Maybe we should look for a few space themed items... but like... from other parts of space. Then we can challenge ourselves to find them in our living room." He says this with a little smirk and then looks to Nick. "That one over there, with the big eyes and shrunken mouth... that's who sold us some of our furniture pieces. And I got Pandora's Box from here as well. Already opened with only Hope left within it of course..." He explains. "So really, what you may discover here is limitless..to a point.." Then he thinks. "I should have thought to bring my friend Askante here a time or two. It would have loved this place, I think..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Given the size of these fabric bolts, we'd have to create a miniature america land to festoon with it all, or some kind of insane collector's doll's house. What ever would you even -do- with ..." Sin eyes the gossamerlike fabric that's being peddled at him by grinning fae-like beings "...well, it IS a rather lovely thing and so very finely woven... no! No, no thank you..." a pause then he finishes his thought "...I mean that would be a very interesting collection of otherworldly hankies." Lucifer's given a consideration for the information shared and then he looks beyond, to the furniture dealer, strolling past a booth that gives you all kinds of feels. Literally. "I wondered how you ended up with it. I wonder how -this- place ended up with it, for that matter." A gesture is made to an area partitioned off like a souk, with tent poles and domes of linen. "Ingredients for various mystical things, yes? We were collecting something and I'm sure we're low on dragon teeth. Again. Oh..." he looks to Nick "...I've never asked this before, but are you actually able to cast sympathetic magic? My own experiments in that regard were absymal, though I seem to have invocation occasionally down. I think that's all about mind, will and intent."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick's steps slow as the lead is cut away, turning his head to look in the direction of the big eyed, tiny mouthed vendor. Considering the apartment was pre-furnished and the small blueprint, it is safe to assume Nick was not in a furniture shopping mood. Maybe books... Music related items... And then Lucifer brings up Askante. ...could keep an eye out for something shiny too. Hmm. Would they like something warm? Nick blinks as Sinister directs a question to him regarding spells. "...You mean like voodoo dolls and paired items acting like two sides of a portal?" He wonders aloud. He pauses, "...Would what was done with the feather count? Or cramming the energy of a spell inside of escrima sticks?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Artefact dealers. One should never ask where, when or how they get their items... but do recall I got the fluted pipe from someone here last time we came as well. Besides, if not my hands, what safer place is there to keep such items?" Lucifer asks this to Nathaniel with a grin before taking a breath to look around again. "Also, I could use some new handkerchiefs to tuck into the pockets of my suits - thank you very much." This with a little huffed grin before he thinks on things. "Could also use some dragon's blood, eye of a baited kilain, and a few feathers of the downy brawns..." He lists off as if Nathaniel would know precisely what he is talking about and be able to keep an eye out for such supplies. "We don't need any more furniture unless we find a bed that we just cannot pass up." There is something Lucifer is going to find here that might raise his heckles just a bit. But they haven't passed an artefact vendor yet. It won't be hard to see it though. Eternal Flames tend to burn....eternally.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "I don't ... know? I assume so. Although, I had the feeling when you created the feather, it was a bit of a surprise that it lasted as long as it did. I think that's a bit of a self-fullfilling moebius loop of power though, because of synergy." Sinister muses that, but shrugs thereafter "Really not my field of expertise... I barely even dabble and have only successfully invoked anything the once. And only, I think, because I've a bond with the Devil himself." Side-eyeing Lucifer with a grin at the hankie need, he motions to the little dragonfly people and gestures to the entire collection to be brought down, even as his gaze peers over the top of the spectacles toward the ingredients bazaar. "Right. I shall be sure to remind you of the things that I have no idea what they look like from a hole in the wall... but in case you forget, I'm here with your friendly reminder of a clue stick to the thought processes." Winking to the devil, all will not be well, when the eternal flame is seen. But not yet. Oh, not yet. "I might seek out an -experience- this time, you know. For the sake of research and furthering my studies. I'm happy to go with recommendations."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "It's not my area of expertise either." Nick admits, glancing around, "I apparently don't NEED to put the Michael one into the sticks. I just had it in my hands when I swatted the gnats. But... it makes it much easier to pass the spell over to another to use if it's contained in something." Loki did seem pretty amused when he was given a bespelled stirring spoon to un zombify people in the coffee shop that got attacked. He pauses, "...From what I saw at the school, different people had different specialties. Some required ingredients. Mine's more focused on the verbal. Either Bardic or sorcery. Kind of up in the air of which one. Mostly will and intent is a factor. Probably some subconscious structure..." Nick looks to the wares being shown by the dragonflys. He does have to admit they look nice. Although he wonders how the sellers feel about the idea of such nice work being used for people to blow their noses into.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "An experience, hmm? You could go spectral sighting...if you wanted something among the more worldly experience... You know... I actually don't really know too many of the experiences they sell here. But I encourage you to go on an excursion...for the sake of research and furthering your studies." Lucifer offers this with a wink to Nathaniel, because something tells him there's a little more to it than just research and the like. Experiences can do something to you, especially in the Night Market. But Nathaniel can take care of himself, yes? With Lucifer just a mental call behind if something dire occurs. "Well. Items for magical use are in abundance here... there's actually an occult of the netherworld which sells things you have likely only heard people think the item exists." He says this to Nick as they continue walking. Likely waiting for Nathaniel to toddle off for his experience while he ensures Nick doesn't stray too far or get caught up in some wayward dealing. All of these things completely exit his mind when he turns to look within one of the tents and just...stops. Dead. No motion. It's a long moment before his eyes flare hellfire red and a growl settles deep within his throat. Something's set him off, and it's not pretty.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "You don't? Interesting." Nickward that was. "I wonder." Quietly murmured, Lucifer receives the lion's share of attention, even if it's not liable to last for too long, in the here and near. "Really? Huh. Well, perhaps I should save that for a moment when you can indulge in it also..." because experience, the physicality of the sensation junkie, is a thing. Once a thing done solo, now a thing shared and translated because of it. Different and perceptively so. But something DOES catch attention and he DOES totter off -- a mystical or rather an exotic stall that sells animals of and NOT of this world. "Fascinating...." That last can be heard as Sin disappears between the crates, as the world gets tense and hellfire flares. Oh, he'll be back imminently, but for a moment, this will be ENTIRELY Nick's issue to handle. It happens sometimes. It's never usually good when it does. Flashing fire can turn into an inferno, if there's suitable kindling.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Yeah. Could you IMAGINE the damage if I had to swat at gnats with an escrima stick?" Or if going with items that were immediately available at the time he encountered them... a towel bar. When there's a sudden silence coming from Lucifer, Nick turns his head in the direction he last heard his uncle in. When he finds him still, glaring into the tent, curiousity tinged with a bit of concern steers him. Without really processing it, he walks over. "Is everything okay?" Nick queries, moving to Lucifer's side before glancing in to the tent to see what has drawn the devil's attention.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "How the fuck did they get their hands on it..." Lucifer asks, probably no one, but Nick is right there. As if he would know the answer. Peering into the tent reveals artefacts of all sorts. (Some are fakes however, duplicates if you will) Boxes and vases of all sorts, trinkets marked as the handbag of Juxposition, or the Tiara of Temptation. However, one thing stands out among all the others. Imagine the Tesseract, but with fire in the middle. Ever burning, surrounded by a box of blue. So one would think, if it's ice, the fire would melt enough to go out. But also, the box seems enclosed, so there's no oxygen to fuel the fire. Yet it still burns. Forever and ever. The Eternal Flame. It doesn't look like much when looking at it, but it's definitely significant enough to make the Lord of Hell a bit pissy that it's here and... "...Not where I left it..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Now isn't that fascinating. Secondary sets of eyes on the thoraco-abdominal junction. Literally eyes on its back, a fascinating little evolutionary trait and why did that come about I won'... Sin can move fast when he has to. Or when he wants to. Superhuman speed, though no 'faster than a speeding bullet' or 'gone in a Flash' kind of velocity. But it's just not something anyone really expects of -him- to be that quick. Nick's looking into the tent beside his uncle, suddently his uncle's partner is on the other side, laying a hand upon the Archangel's shoulder. "There will be a paper trail, or rather an unfortunate series of events," he says this in a calm, terribly unruffled sort of tone. "I do recommend against excessive firm questioning though, it tends to bring out the falsehood." He stares through the flap, gaze settling on the thing that drew ire. One is not allowed to touch Lucifer's things without his permission. Generosity is a counterbalance to an extraordinary level of possessiveness. "Didn't that come from the gate East of Eden?" - is asked, curiously.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick, lacking context glances around the tent for a moment before glancing back to Lucifer. Taking note of where he's looking, he turns his head to look over to the fire. Lucifer's muttered comment causes for Nick to spin back to Lucifer. "... Are we sure this is what it looks like?" Maybe they're looking to an elaborate illusion?

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "...Mmmn..." Lucifer looks over to the sudden arrival of Nathaniel and takes a breath to try and steady himself. "I'm trying..." He says gently and then straightens himself up, breathes out and steps in to follow Nathaniel. There's a side-eye to Nick and he nods. "I would think this...except I know that is mine." Offering this before walking towards the item as Nathaniel asks about it so openly. "It is a lovely item.." He offers, more aloud and to the owner of the tent. The owner smirks a little, and puts on a Face. "Oh yes. From the very Gate itself. Eden holds such lovely items, and is a place of true wonder. A glorious masterpiece from one of the most vile creators in the universe." His speech is slithered, velveteen. And he keeps at least one eye on Lucifer as if in true interest. Or perhaps fascination.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister shoots Nick a look. There's just an infinitessimally slight headshake. Certain things, apparently, are as fundamental as the air that people breathe. It might be invisible, but you absolutely know that it's there. And that it belongs in your lungs. His gaze tracks over to the item, then the vendor as he steps into the tent, another glance to Nick with a glance away at the other items -- a subtle cue to peruse, but one that could VERY easily be missed. He himself listens like he was a bag full of ears, but LOOKS ever so nonchalant as he picks up this or that trinket, oh-so-grandiosely named. He is, as it were, keeping a finger on this pulse, to see if it suddenly starts racing.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Hearing Lucifer confirm the item as being his, Nick doesn't argue, simply giving a slight nod before seeing Sinister's headshake. The musician frowns, backing up as he turns to look to the other items in the tent. The frown remains as he's left to wonder what's so wrong about just making sure you're right before getting the proverbial pitchforks out...

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Lovely items. Like the Flaming Sword. That might have caught you a fair price...sold to the highest bidder..." Lucifer begins, looking over to the merchant. "Or those lovely apples... I bet if you picked one and sold it as The Forbidden Fruit... you might catch yourself a good day." He walks over to the Eternal Flame, picking it up and looking it over a few times. "But this... did not come from Eden... you know it. I know it. So let's cut to the grit. You do not have the rights to own this... but then... you didn't have the rights to Pandora's Box either...and all that was left inside was a bit of Hope." "..." A slight smirk, "I knew I recognized you..." He looks to Nathaniel and Nick, one by one. "Brought some friends along this time I see...and one of them's got an interesting scent..." Lucifer grins. "I'll make you an offer. I take back what is rightfully mine. You tell me how you came to acquire it. And when next I come back I will bring you something worth far more than this would ever fetch you. You'll make what you were thinking of getting ten times over without batting an eye..." The vendor sneers and eyes Lucifer up once and down another. "...What could YOU possibly offer ME that's worth more than what yer holdin' there. I got it fair and square...so it best be worth it."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister listens. When the words start spilling out, he sets down a trinket that was stating it was the bottle that contained a genie and turns slowly to face the elf and the archangel, tucking his hands slowly int he small of his back and squaring off, military parade stance. At the mention of aromatic presences, he looks keenly at Nick and back. "He /is/ trying to do this the nice way," is said rather calmly, looking intently at the elf himself. Memorizing. Is he out of his depth here? Oh, you bet your bum he is. But he's still Sinister and there are habits that are hard to break.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick pauses, looking to a bit of mirror propped up upon the side of another product. Not really all that interesting except, the area reflected behind him looks a bit different than the tent. Tilting forward, he glances over to it. To make out the view of the inside of a cave. To where the tent opening is, the cave opening is reflective, giving a few of rich green hills in the distance. Nick's eyes narrow. What in th-? He closes his eyes, for a few moments, focusing more on the conversation going on behind him until the comment is heard. "Oh for- " Nick's eyes roll to the comment before he turns to look over to the elf. "What is it with people and smelling others? I shower. And the soap is a bit scented." Humor or seriousness? The world may never know. ... Ok the mind readers in the tent might know. But the rest of the world. It's a mysteryyyy...

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer straightens himself up after a moment and pivots sharply so he's now facing the vendor. "What can I offer? Many things. So many things. I could even give you what you desire most. Or perhaps help quell a guilt inside you..." Nostrils flare, gently, but likely noticeable by those who know him well. Then the Devil grins. "But I did have something specific in mind. My companions can vouch for me. I must go and retrieve this item you see... and I promise to bring it to you. If you let me take this back to it's proper place." He could actually get this item right here and now. But Lucifer has a thing about showing his 'true' self here. So no wings, black or white, and no looking like the Devil true...or Samael proper. No. He'll go home, get the item he's offering, and then bring it back. "So..." He takes one step forward and extends a hand. Eyes flaring with hellfire briefly. "Do we have a deal?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister tucks his hands quietly into the small of his back as the deal is proffered, eyes on the elf for a long and lingering moment, then the Archangel in his moment of trying (and succeeding we'll observe) to keep his cool. He inclines his head to the devil, looks beyond to Nick and then subtley... away to the other things on offer again. The bottle that was supposedly the one with the genie, is set down carefully where he got it from. Though the urge to speak out might be strong, he is holding his silence. Occasionally, such things are as golden as sunlight.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick quiets as the deal is being proposed, seemingly picking up that maybe now's not a good time to be interrupting bargains being struck. Catching glimpse of Sinister turning back to look his way. Seeing the bottle being set down, he glances back over to the mirror. Brows lift as Nick quickly steps away from the mirror. The figure reflected does the same, going deeper into the cave. But, the figure doesn't look like Nick anymore. Instead the reflection seems more hooded in shadow. As he moves a bit further away, the reflection fades back to that of the tent. Nick watches the rest of the negotiation in silence, lips tighted shut.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' The vendor narrows eyes at the Devil and then takes a deep breath. "My kind have always held themselves to be a good judge of character. And you seem to have seen through my ruse...which makes me wonder just who - or what - are you. But...I will honor this bargain. You may take the flame with you. I expect you back the next time the market is open." He says this and then looks to Nick who is backing away from that mirror. "Ah. A glimpse into the past. Be it your past or someone else connected to you... it is an interesting mirror. For the reflection is different to any of those who gaze upon it. Are you interested?" Cause, you know, vendor's gotta try to make a sale. Lucifer shakes an outheld hand after the vendor speaks and then nods. He turns to the Eternal Flame, picks it up and then somehow manages to shrink it down and then places it in his pocket. A shift and he steps aside to Nathaniel. "How was your experience?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Pending. Although..." the talk of the mirror has Sinister looking at it long and hard. "I will take it, if you don't mind. Such things are curious, indeed." He looks to the elf, then to the mirror, his head tilting slightly to the side. Questions WILL be asked of Lucifer in a wee bit, when they're at a food vendor or somesuch thing. "What is your price?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' The vendor's explanation causes for Nick to glance back to the mirror. With it still showing the tent in the reflection, his posture relaxes a bit. To the question, his lips part slightly but a response a bit delayed. But it need not be an issue as he hears Sinister declare an interest in it. "By all means." Nick responds, relinquishing any claim to the product. Nor does he seem to be grieving the loss of such an item to the doctor. "Have at it."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Eyes narrow from the vendor as they shift to Nathaniel who near immediately shows interest in the mirror. "It's a hundred kurillen..." He offers. Which dollars to kurillen is...well...a large number. (Please do not make the typist do math) But it's easily affordable by the doctor and/or his companion. Lucifer smirks and side eyes Nathaniel before giving a nod. "A good price for what it supposedly does... many an interesting thing might be gleaned from such a mirror..." He comments to Nathaniel - perhaps quietly so - and then looks over towards Nick. "Anything aside from the mirror catching your eye, Nick?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Well, now I have to actually do a wire transfer to that blasted ATM. But you have a deal," Sinister informs the vendor, looking to his phone. All he does is look, the wonders of being him. Nick receives the lion's share of attention then, after a sotto voce sidelong: "Oh and then some. There are many things that I ponder when hindsight is twenty twenty. It would be quite surprising to find out that it isn't. Anyhooo..." another glance to the phone and somewhere else, a ticket is printed out, for currency exchange. "You'll have it delivered of course." That's not a question, that's a statement. He then cocks his head at the rockstar, looking lengthily and again, rather curiously to Nick.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick shakes his head in response to Lucifer's question. "Huh?" He pauses, glancing to the other items he had been looking at prior to the mirror stealing the show. "...I didn't really notice anything else." He pauses, taking note of a pair of shoes. A rather plain looking stick. And keys. ... He looks to the elf. ...Wait a minute. ... "Does that mirror have limited uses before it goes away?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Ah, there's a good question. But no, it's unlimited. It's an enchanted piece, so unless you know someone who can disenchant elvish magic..." The vendor answers Nick's question. Then he looks to Nathaniel once more and gives a nod. "It will be delivered. Just let me know the place to send it.." Lucifer smirks. "You could have just let me pay it, you know. I told you I have enough currency for most the vendors here that I've no fucking clue what to do with." He says this much and then motions. "Anyway. Let's get him paid and get out of here to grab some food, and then see if Nick wants to look anywhere else... but we can probably leave as soon as everyone wishes." He offers this as well, though he knows he's going to get questioned by Sinister sooner or later.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "I imagine though, that it is fickle. It will likely not always show what you want it to, or /who/ you want it to. These things of faerie tales--" murmured, an address that's secure is shared and he nods to Lucifer, jerking his chin to the 'souk of delights' where a collective from several different planes, share their local food and drinks, some of which likely has no description. His cigarette case is extracted as he does so, two selected though he makes no attempt at all, to offer one to Nick. "What did you see, Nick?" it's asked calmly and rather quietly as he hands the cloves to Lucifer for a light. And there's a look that the devil MIGHT just ignore of 'are you going to spill?'

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Well, if one thing is established in terms of preferences, once the exchange between elders has completed, Nick is likely the first one out of the tent. He doesn't wander far. Just stepping to the side to not block the doorway, nor the foot traffic meandering their way through the market. He glances around curiously. Tilting his head as he sees a man of mismatched eyes and a black and white painted face. There's a pause as the two look to each other. ... They both start smiling and waving at each other. "Hey!" "Hey!" And then painted face guy is tugged away by one of his masked companions as they start going in the opposite direction. "Bye!" "Bye!" Nick really does run into people in the oddest of places. But Nick is smiling at least. As the doctor turns his attention to Nick with his inquiry, Nick looks back in the direction of the painted man. "Oh he's just a guy who uses the blast chamber from time to time." Then Nick registers the look. "...Oh you meant the mirror."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' The transaction is finished and the mirror is taken back to be shipped off, likely later that night. Lucifer waits until they're out of the tent, and likely well outside of earshot. There's the moment Nick has with a familiar face and he smirks. "Small worlds..." He has to say. Then he looks to Nathaniel. "So. How much is the curiosity killing you?" Asking this and he gives pause for an answer before he continues. "Feathers. But I won't spawn them here, or take any form that is not this one. I do not want anyone here to know precisely who I am. I mean, I'm sure some do regardless but... I won't make a spectacle of it. So. We'll go home. I'll gather a few feathers and bring them back. They'll likely bring a good price for him. More than the Flame ever would - especially if he sells them individually." He offers this as he leads on to food.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Well, that's part of it..." And a glance again to Nick "...yes, what you saw, not whom. Although I'm curious as to the whom, also." The clove lit, he puffs as he walks, trailing the sweet scent toward the tents. "Actually, a lot of me is wondering how the eternal flame ended up -here-. It really was spawned East of Eden, where the land of Nod lies, according to theology. But that doesn't explain how it ended up in the night market, when it was supposed to be safe and snug." A few more paces and he looks at nothing and kind of comes to a complete stop, looking amusedly consternated. "You know, you -really- should take an inventory of the millenia of collections you've got. Because I can just imagine that someone gets a hold of the Meggido flame and then everyone will be asking why you let the apocalypse happen /by accident/."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick nods. Walking quietly as he thinks back to it. "...I saw the inside of a cave." He answers, recalling the visual of it, "but where the tent opening should have been was the opening of the cave looking out to green hills. And my reflection in it. When I looked back my reflection was covered in shadow instead. But it was mirroring my movements." He glances back in the direction of the painted man. "Sort of classmate. We're both more Independent Study."
}}

16151/All Hell's Come Loose

2024-04-12T17:17:37Z

PoeWolf: Lucifer, Sinister, Satana, Lois Lane, and Nick are all together in Lux having chats. What could possibly have gone wrong?

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/29
|Location=Club Lux, Melville
|Synopsis=Lucifer, Sinister, Satana, Lois Lane, and Nick are all together in Lux having chats. What could possibly have gone wrong?
|Cast of Characters=735, 256, 1127, 9039, 231
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lux is fairly busy for a Thursday night. Likely people trying to get their drink on knowing that the club will be closed the entire holiday weekend. The nerve of the owner! But there's a reason for it, and while many may not understand the reason, Lucifer is going to maintain his yearly tradition and close for the Easter Weekend. Yes and No. It's religion based. But not for the likely reasons you're thinking of. Lucifer is where Lucifer always is. Up at his perch, which is the enclove at the top of the spiral staircase. Whiskey in hand. Three-piece tailored suit of cream with a pale pink shirt and handkerchief. Apparently he's feeling a bit on the brighter side this evening. He watches, waits, sips. Just to sort of get a feel for the crowd this evening.

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     With so many polite invitations (and lovely company), Lois arrives. Sure, everything she drinks is free of alcohol, but that's a smile on her face as she settles at the bar. Along the way, she will look up to see Lucifer in his usual spot. She raises a hand to wave politely.     She settles in and is immediately given the best treatment a girl can ask for when the bartender asks, "The usual, Miss Lane?" Lois is very good with faces and names, but what strikes her as interesting is that she's never seen this bartender before.     "Yes, I'd appreciate that very much," she replies evenly. But her interest is piqued. So she asks the man, "How do you know my usual?" And he just smiles and sets down the lavendar drink. The mystery only makes her more pleased, of course. Answers are not the fun part. Trying to figure them out is.     She turns with a smile from the bar and nurses the drink in her right hand. She surveys the club curiously, looking for any familiar faces. Sadly, it seems there is no Nick nor Mr. Marko here tonight. But who else might surprise her?

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Waking up is always the hard part. Exiting the waters of the sacred river Alph, after stalking the dreams of mortals to bring them into temptation, staining their soul for their inevitable Fall, is just too much fun to give up. This is doubly true after a strenuous night of bringing a victim to the heights of ecstasy and pain (all fully consensual; rich people are very bored) before feeding on their rotting soul; that work just takes all energy out of her, even as that soul's sustenance infuses her. Thus it is that Satana walks in a bit of a haze out of her private room, leaving the desiccated husk of one Wilhelm Schlacht on the carpet behind her, slipping into Lux from the residential hall. Aside from the 'walk of shame', however, that she invariably has after feeding--that hip-swaying, goofy-grin-wearing relaxed gait of someone who's been, as the kiddies might say, 'bizzzzay!'. Of course she doesn't look rumpled. Hair finely coiffed with just enough stray chaos to look natural, but not enough to look unkempt. The dress crimson and slinky and clinging in just the right places to make its presence basically pointless except for meeting with local indecency laws. "Cleanup in room 13B," she says to the doorman. "Or I can deal with it later if you'd prefer." She's not sure when she last fed her Hellhound, after all. "Now who's here tonight...?" she wonders aloud as her eyes scan the floor, meeting with Lucifer's briefly, up in his perch, paired with a respectful nod, before continuing and ... Stopping on Lois. "I ... can't believe it." She looks around. "No Zara. I'll have to invite her sometime..." --- "Lois! How marvelous to see you!" Satana says to the woman effusively, coming up from behind to hug around her waist, kissing her neck in greeting. "I didn't know you came here." Beat. "I come here an awful lot. Many times." If Lois looks in the mirror she'll see the wicked grin on Satana's face. She knows how her phrasing can be read!

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' At least with having mostly demons on your payroll, it means that when someone like Satana comes waltzing out of their room with a phrase like 'cleanup'... there's no raised brow or disgusted look. It just means that the cleanup will be done. Quietly like. If the Hellhound needs fed, that can also be arranged. Satana knows the details. So it's with a pleased grin that Lucifer greets Satana - however briefly - and even gives her 'niece' a kiss on the cheek for good measure. He is silent though, watching as she makes her way over to the bar. This is when he spies Lois, and his grin grows just a tad only for a brow to be raised as he watches the succubus greet the reporter. Hmm. The bartender that made Lois' drink does offer a smile, a single-shoulder shrug and just taps at his head. They're all linked here - one way or another - but Lois may not know this fact just yet. Demons, my dear, all under Lucifer's employ, have their ways. The Devil himself shifts from his perch, greeting this and that who are headed up or down to stride one step, two, and then he is behind the bar facing Lois and company. "How lucky am I that my two favorite ladies are here tonight at the same time?"

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois was just enjoying her first taste of the drink when she hears Satana's voice. And then of course what follows. She does not make any strong reaction. She smirks.     "Oh Satana, my dear, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways." She will turn around, eventually, and look over her very satiated companion. "I see someone has had a remarkable day," she comments casually.     There's a flash in her eyes, though. Is that.. compassion? She reachess up to gently touch Satana's hair. There's no need to straighten anything, but she does it anyway. "Are you feeling alright, Satana?"     She doesn't show how surprised she is to suddenly hear Lucifer's voice. But she is surprised! That was... fast. "Hello, Lucifer!" she calls out. "It is great to see you again." A look from him to Satana and back. She's curious. Of course she is. She's breathing.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "One... two... three..." Satana purrs, counting off the ways she loves Lois, reaching seven. With her eyes. She's being tasteful though. Only one through three were on Lois' body proper. And one of those was ... her hand?! The hand straightening her hair is briefly captured, squeezed, then released. "I'm ..." A wide grin crawls over Satana's face, her eyes lighting up (though not as literally as Lois may have seen one). "...well. I slept all day after a ... strenuous night." Her lip quirks in amusement. "Strenuous in the good way. You should try it sometime..." *sigh* Succubus will be succubus. Then Lucifer's voice arrives from behind and, for just a brief instance, Lois may just see a flash of surprise and ... is that fear? ... in her face as her mask slips before being hastily replaced and seated. "Uncle Luci!" she says, turning to face the so-called Lord of Lies. "I'm only *one* of your favourites?" she asks, impish light in her eyes. "I'll have to try harder. I want to be your only favourite." She looks across at Lois, then at Lucifer with mild confusion. "You two know each other? Oh, good. That makes introductions unnecessary." Her voice becomes performative, as if reciting lines. "Uncle Luci, this is reporter Lois Lane, my latest lover, though she hasn't yet accepted that role. Lois, this is my not-really Uncle Lucifer Morningstar. A Hell of a man." Shrug. "Always so awkward and ... far too revealing, like one of my gowns."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "You seem surprised to see me, Lois. You are, in fact, in my club. Surely you would have thought you'd see me at some point, yes?" Lucifer asks this while polishing a glass as if he's always belonged behind a bar. "You are looking ravishing as always, my dear. Did your friend, Mister Kent, come along with you or did he hide away in Metropolis?" Asking this with his ever-present grin before his gaze shifts to Satana. Does he catch the brief split-second of her mask coming off? Hard to tell. But he does seem to think on things. "Well now, that's going to be a difficult task. However, you -are- my favorite neice...and I happen to have at least two of them running around." He offers this and then sets his glass down. "Miss Lane was here for a charity event held here back on Valentine's Day... or very near to it. She wrote an article in the Daily Planet and everything. Even won a bid. It was a wonderful evening. And just recently Nathaniel and I had a double date with her and Mister Kent. Poor guy didn't know what to do with himself I'm afraid..."

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois sighs softly at the entire exchange. She is rather used to Satana by this point. But apparent amusement aside, a watchful eye will notice there is something rather like concern in her eyes when she looks at the scantily clad woman.     "You are right, of course, Lucifer. I fear one of my mortal limitations is rather expecting people to move from point A to point B by traversing the intervening space. I imagine that rule does not apply to you."     She nods as Lucifer recounts the Valentine's Day event. "It was one of my favorite solo outings. And alas, tonight, I am without my fiance. But apparently not without a suitor." She gives Satana an amused look. "And scandalous nature aside, I do honestly enjoy your niece's company. She is quickly becoming rather important to me. Not in the way she seems to aspire to, though." Did she notice the fear? She doesn't show it. But honestly, she is Lois Lane. Of course she did.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Oh good," Satana says with visible relief. "You know. That makes conversations less awkward." She gestures to the bartender. "Surprise me." She pauses and looks at the bartender warily a moment. "In a good way. The last time I said that to one of Uncle Luci's se... bartenders, I got hydrochloric acid for my troubles. Ha ha." Half-seating herself on the stool nearest Lois, and instinctively swiveling so that her form is on full display to any eyes in the bar, Satana looks between the pair. "You have a knack for knowing the most interesting people, Lois. I thought I was good at slithering my way into social spaces; I think I could take lessons from you." A fond smile crosses her face as Lois sings her praises. Vanity, thy name is ... well ... obvious. "I do tease Lois a lot," she says to Lucifer, eyes locked on his as if trying to get a message across. "But it's only play. It's nothing serious." She's not prey. She's a friend. Please believe me. "I just think she's smart, compassionate, friendly, and ..." *sigh* Succubus gotta succubus. "... of course the fact that she's drop dead sexy doesn't hurt. Very easy on the eyes and imagination." Her eyes bore into Lois'. "A very, very vivid imagination. Believe me." Pause. "But though I joke about her being my lover, she's not. She's..." Satana visibly struggles here trying to find a word. "...better than that. She's a f-friend." Of course Lucifer knows why Satana has trouble with the word. After what happened to her first friend ever...

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "You miss nothing, do you Miss Lane?" Lucifer comments to Lois as she makes a comment on his sudden appearance. "It's nice to use here, especially if I need to go calm a storm quick and in a hurry. You can only imagine how many times a drunken business man will try to get too handsy with a waitress or cage dancer." He offers this and then a side eye is given to Satana. A hand is lifted to pause the bartender from fixing anything, and he'll do the honor of 'surprising' her. A little of this, splash of that? No. He reaches under the counter, pours an amber liquid into a stout glass and then sets that in front of the woman. "Asgardian Ale. You should be able to handle such, no?" Giving a grin as he perhaps waits for her to try it. Then Satana is speaking more about her relationship with Lois. The way she speaks has him giving just a slight tilt of his head until the very end. When a very particular word is used. His features soften just a bit and his smile becomes something very un-like himself. It's a genuine thing not backed by anything sinister or Lucifer-esque. "She's a very good friend to have, Satana. I am glad you are making some." Is all he says, but hopefully, the succubus will feel that there is more in those words than just the ones used. Pride, perhaps. Yes. He is proud of her in this moment.

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois cannot help but notice Satana's pose. She never leers, but it is fascinating to her. It seems to defy physics the way that succubus can present her every physical charm while giving no appearance of even trying. As tempting as it is to Lois to see if she could manage such a pose, she's not nearly young enough to delude herself into thinking it would look anything but comical for her to try.     The way that Satana talks to Lucifer is fascinating to her. She is a bit concerned, as well. This good little Catholic girl takes Lucifer at his word. He is exactly who he says he is, as far as she is concerned. She's seen enough to make it less a matter of faith or trust at this point and more a matter of fact. She is very much protective of Satana, as odd as that may seem, moving a bit closer to her.     When Lucifer defuses the situation, she is not exactly relieved. That forces her to pause and reflect. She trusts both of these people with her to a startling degree. And she only cite intuition as to why she has such confidence.     But there is another reaction. Satana's playful words are met with an indulgent grin. There's a most difficult to describe relationship forming between her and Satana and she struggles to fully understand it herself. But when Satana says something so painfully self-deprecating, the report's expression collapses into sudden sadness.     "Satana, I am your friend. And please, don't say such bad things about yourself. I am not better than you. Different, certainly, but not better." Now granted, she might struggle to reconcile this view with the 'clean up' currently taking place in Satana's room, but in this moment, she has no doubts of what she is saying. "You cannot help the circumstances of your birth. But that doesn't make you less. Not to me."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Oh, there's people being handsy tonight? Could you point me their wa...?" Satana pauses. Glances at Lois. Glances at Lucifer. Stops that line of questioning. Time and a place. Instead she picks up the presented ale, looking at it curiously before raising it to her lips. To cover up a brief loss of control. Because she didn't want to admit the friendship. Because friends don't last long. She stops drinking when she gets her composure back, hiding behind the rim of the glass and the amber liquid it contains. Which is to say half the glass. When she sets the glass carefully down next to the bar's counter, she's back in her devil-may-care (he probably does) mode, the playful party girl mask firmly riveted in place. Next to the counter? Yes. It seems that Asgardian ale can actually impact a half-demon and she has completely misread the distance from her hand to the bar. The glass starts to fall straight to the floor without Satana even noticing as she turns a bleary eye toward Lois. "You have no idea, Lois," she says, with a very slight slur in her voice, "How hard it is for me. You're so delicious. I could show you things. I could make you want me to show you things. Things that would have you screaming my name and begging for more." From most this would come across as bragging. From Satana it sounds more like matter-of-fact statements made without ego. Also the bartender is listening intently and flatly undressing the succubus with his eyes. And straightening his tie. "And part of me," Satana continues blearily, "wants to do that so, so,so much. That's the part of me that most people meet. But ... I ... there's ..." Satana struggles for words and looks across at Lucifer, shrugging helplessly, her eyes saying 'Help?'. "I don't have the words for it. I value your body and your passion very, very much. But there's things I value more and..." The next words come out in a confused outburst. "I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHAT OR WHY!" Now it registers. The dropped glass. Oh. "What did you feed me?!" she asks Lucifer, wide-eyed. "It's making me say the quiet parts."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' The dropped glass doesn't go any further than just about to hit the floor before it's caught just in time, frozen in place. Then - slowly - the glass lifts back up and settles back onto the bartop. Lucifer reaches to pull the glass back away from both the women and then clears his throat. "Alright. Now I no. No Ale for the succubus..." He says under his breath and then watches Satana with a keen eye. The bartender is dismissed, regardless of what he was or wasn't watching. Given that all the bartenders are demons under Lucifer's employ, it's easy for them to let a simple mental command from their Lordship take over any other action. "Welp, I don't know what to give a drunken succubus to help them sober up... so we might just have to play this one out. Apparently it's like giving them truth serum...a massive dose of such...." Which is leaving Lucifer a little lost for words but he does at least get Satana a glass of iced water and places that in front of her. "It's been a while since you've let yourself feel such things, Satana... usually you keep yourself guarded. And why wouldn't you? Lois has given you a chance to feel safe and secure...one of these days you might find out why...until then. Drink water. And have fun."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick sometimes is a very busy guy. And sometimes the very busy guy is busy in an area where the closest of his sleeping options is adjacent to a certain night club. Now, that is something to factor in as the general drawback of having to cut through the club each time is a factor to getting to the hotel room. And Nick is not dressed for clubbing. He even has a backpack. Containing....things. But that is a story for another time most likely. Either way, clubbing is furthest from the musician's mind and his gait more or less reflects that as Nick cuts through the club towards the hotel in the least obstructive manner possible. The plan is simple. Up to room. Shower. Sleep. ... Ok maybe a drink before the sleep part. But first! Shower.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' A shower might be a thing worth having. It is quite a good thing that the club isn't particularly busy -- the doors open wide, admitting a truly monstrous raven -- its legs are ostrich-like, but the talons oh-so-sharp clack on the ground exactingly like knives as it lurches its way inside. Nobody pays it the blindest bit of attention as it drags a huge off-white linen sack behind itself. As steps are taken, people still in the club merely get out of its way as feathers are shed, the form contorting and popping in one moment and melting silently the next; each pinion seems to liquify and slide back to the main body... Until Sinister reaches the dip into the dancefloor area and the sack being dragged in his wake hits a snag. He stops, turns, stares at it and with a grimace, stoops to hoist it up in arms, all the while being ignored by the unwashed masses. He makes it to the elevator, then steps inside... only to reappear with sack in hand, in the entrance. "Bollocks..." whisps of glittering golden smoke seem to waft off him, here and there. "Alright..." and then, only then, does he notice that there's others here OTHER than Lucifer. "Don't mind me. Got a Sisyphian issue going on. Apparently." Sack to back, held in place with one hand, he attempts the journey again. "Evening, my love. Satana. Lois." A sniff "...and Nick."

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Satana's said a lot of things to Lois. Some good, some bad, but never quite so overt and well, powerful. The reporter is pretty impressive at handling it when Satana gets flirty. Which is to say almost always with her. This is different. Detailed, honest in a way that is new, refreshing, but mostly shocking.     She does have occasion to notice Dr. Essex and offer a wave. A very distracted, deer-in-the-headlights wave. And then there is that last outburst from Satana that makes her jump.     "Satana," she begins, then immediately pauses. This whole moment is fraught and as good as Lois is with words, this requires some care and extra focus. "I really appreciate what you said. You are obviously very attractive, but I care about you and I won't take advantage of the many things you have offered to do with me." Admittedly, Lois realizes how much harder this will be to handle.     "I'm happy you feel the same way. Honored, really. It hurts me to think about people taking advantage of you. So it means a lot, that you appreciate our relationship as something different and special. There are things that are more important than ephemeral pleasures. Just know that you can always be yourself around me. I trust you."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana snorts at that. "People don't take advantage of me," she says, speech slightly lilted in the direction of a usually well-concealed Bostonian accent. "I take advantage of them. That constant prowl for sex is what I am. It's how I do my works." She chuckles and raises her glass, having perhaps not registered that it's water, in salute. "I'm a princess on the side," she adds with a grin. "And that's why," she continues, eyes boring into Lois', "..." The scruffy, half-familiar man and the raven dragging a sack derail her train of thought. "Do you need help with that bag?" she asks, mildly bewildered as the world changes around her faster than her Asgardian-addled mind can keep up. Then instinct kicks in. "I'll summon some servitor imps and have them take it wherever you like," she offers courteously. "And if there's any damage, I'll flay them in front of you until you're satisfied that you've been adequately recompensed."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' A lot of things happen all at once. Nick appears - wearing not his clubbing close or even his visiting clothing - this is more a travel worn Nick who is just looking for a place to sleep. He gets a nod from Lucifer but not much else as the Devil lets the man take care of his own. Then, there's a Raven. Not just any Raven. This is a Sin-Raven. Which then turns into a Sinister. Who then tries to take a sack to the elevator only to wind up...at the entrance again? This gains a raised brow before Nathaniel sort of explains his dilemma. Lucifer isn't sure how to help, and he's got a drunk succubus that he's a little more worried about right now. Lois then talks, to Satana, trying to ease the other woman's plight. Confessionals are an interesting thing, especially when one does them without truly knowing what they are saying, why they are saying it and how it's coming across. But Lois deals with it the way only a Lois can - with dignity and care. Satana is then offering Nathaniel help, perhaps distracted now from other things her Asgardian Ale minded brain has been leading her. Lucifer then, finally, returns his gaze to Nathaniel. "Hello Love. What kind of Sisyphian issue, and how did you come across said issue? Anything I can do to help?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Hearing his name, Nick turns his head seeing the gathering at the bar. "Oh hey guys." he responds, one hand resting upon his backpack strap while looking over to the large sack that Sinister's trying to manage. He slows to a stop, but having the kindness not to stand too close, Listening to Satana's offer to help by summoning something he looks over to Sinister, "...Or I could help. I'm heading up anyways. No summonings necessary." Besides, if the bag got to be too problematic, he could probably make the presence of doorways and walls no longer be an obstruction.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Gracious though that is, Satana... I am not sure it would be particularly well received by mortal brains and those are problematic, at times. I... ahh," looking up at Nick, shifting the sack, the doctor nods and adjusts its weight as the musician comes to assist. "I'm just trying to..." they manage between them, to get it to the elevator and in, then once again BOTH arrive at the entrance to Lux. "...get it to safe stasis. Bloody hellfire." There is an exhale. "PHasing might help..." which is an odd thing to request or require of the moment, but there's a hand lifted to the group at the bar in greeting. "Contents of sack are very mind-addled and refuse telekinetic assistance. But it's stuck in escape mode. We'll be a moment." The second go around, involving actually making it to the elevator, proves successful. Something must have happened inside. <<Success.>> It's like an echo of afterthought. <<Sleeping this one off will be interesting. We'll be back shortly.>> -- aka: Next go around.

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     You ever have a show on that you've been watching for months and the story is just getting good... and then the power goes out? That's where Lois is right now. Satana's just about to say something important, and off she goes, distracted!     She looks over to Nick and offers an apologetic smile. Apologetic cause she is really focused here. She has Satana spilling her guts and it's about as cute a moment as Lois hopes to have with her unique friend.     There's a bit of an inward debate, but it is not long in the resolving. She will reach out, seeking to set her hands on Satana's cheeks and guide the succubus to return her undivided attention to the reporter. If such a thing succeeds, she will say, quite playfully, "What were you about to say, Satana?"     It honestly takes all of Lois' willpower to resist the urge to see what Dr. Essex is up to. Curiousity is her demon but right now she wants to focus. To be a good friend. To hear-out her tipsy succubus pal.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "About to say what?" Satana asks, staring at Lois blankly. She pauses and visibly seems to rewind the conversation up to that point, but given the time for even her ale-addled brain to catch up she gets a semblance of her usual style. "Oh, right. I'm literally a sex demon, which is why literally every thought I have about you is sexual." Beat. "Yes. Even now." Another pause. "And even more now." Mischief dances in Satana's eyes as she grins wickedly at Lois, again with the uncomfortable bodily survey of eyes backed by a rather formidable imagination (or so she claims). Relaxing now that she's deflected Lois' insatiable curiosity--after all that's not the kind of insatiable she seems to want from Lois--Satana glances sidelong at Lucifer. "I think," she slurs, "that I directed that well; she doesn't need to know about the confusion." Asgardian ale seems to be like sodium pentothal for half-demon succubi. "So how have you been anyway, Uncle Luci? We don't talk often enough. And you never answer when I scream your name out in climax. You're like your father that way: never answering when called upon."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer nods towards Nick who is then offering to help Nathaniel as well. He'll raise a brow at the explanation but figures more details will come later when they aren't in mixed company. His attention returns to Satana and Lois. Lois still being her graceful self and pledging things to Satana that she will likely abide by. She's engaged after all, and Satana isn't going to take advantage of someone that she has admitted to being friends with. Then Satana is brushing off things that Lois says, but then she tells Lucifer that she directed well and avoided confusion. Lucifer sighs. "You need to begin working on your inside voice remaining inside..." He considers. "And by that I mean thoughts being kept as thoughts and not said out loud near the person who you likely don't want hearing them. But I suppose you completed what you set to achieve. Also, I'm fine. You don't make an appearance here often enough. And those aren't the type of calls I take...you can scream my name all you want, I just add it to the list of those others who scream at me for release from their torture."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' If one is waiting for a triumphant Nick to return after they solved the riddle of the bag o' wtf, then they shall be disappointed. Once free of the task, Nick theynt to his hotel room to start off with his personal 'To Do' list.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sin is liable to arrive first, if only because all HE had to do is wash his hands and tidy himself up a bit. Thoroughly wash his hands, but that's neither here nor there. The elevator dings ONE more time, disgorging the doctor from inside, sans Nick, sans sack and sans repeating himself at the entryway. "Right. That's that then." As far as he knows, this is but another night at Lux, with its sometimes strange clientelle and not some truthiness situation that bears thinking deeply upon. "Nick will be along imminently, he's just freshening up. Daaaaaaahlink..." leaning in to kiss Lucifer on the cheek, he settles to the end of the bar with a rich smile appearing. "What did I miss, I wonder?"

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois is, admittedly, very much deflated by Satana's obfuscation. Honestly, it is difficult. But Satana is a succubus, and soul-searing honesty is not going to come easily. Lois imagines for a moment she should get up, give up, walk out. Surely this is not a fight she can win!     But wimpy avoidance Lois is the weakest voice in the reporter's head and is easily quashed by the better angels of her nature.     So instead of that, caring Lois and sneaky Lois get the call and will ask, "What are you confused again? That sounds difficult for you." Now this might seem a bit like a trick, and well, it is. But the motivation is about as pure as Satana will likely ever encounter.     And caring Lois throws out another question at Satana. If either gets answered it will be something, right? So here it is. "You know, you have always acted attracted to me. I'm just a woman. Why is it that you didn't just do what you wanted to do?" Lois is grateful Satana did /not/, but still. The question remains.     Sorry everyone. She's laser focused. She has to find out the truth!

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Oh my. She's just challenged a Lord of Hell, practically daring her to act the part. And for just a moment a Lord of Hell responds, amber eyes melting to black, Hellfire where her pupils once were. Protrusions form in her skin, at right about the point where you'd expect horns to erupt, but don't break out. Apparently Satana isn't feeling as horny as she talks. Yes. This was a terrible pun. Live with it. "Oh, Lois," she purrs, "if you wanted, you just had to ask..." The approach is so smooth Satana's up against the reporter, full-body, before the latter has a chance to register the change of circumstance. And while that's registering, lips are brushing Lois' ear, hot breath teasing her neck. Then the quiet murmur. "Because for some reason I want you more as a friend than as a lover," the murmur says before teeth lightly nip the earlobe, only to be quickly soothed by soft lips. "And I don't know why." And Satana's back, half in her stool, presenting her form to the club once more for admiration, jealousy, and temptation. "I'll be nice to you and keep the rest for ... privacy. To avoid embarrassment. I know how disturbed you'd be if I took you here on the top of the bar." There's many ways to misdirect. Who knew that a demon who trolls for souls to drag to Hell would be able to use so many of them? Oh. Right.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer waves a hand in the air. Apparently Satana and Lois are fine. Just fine. Their relationship is a complicated mess of primal attraction mixing with friendship...but that's FINE. Right? Right. So, Lucifer turns his attention to Nathaniel who has joined them, but at the end of the bar. He takes a guess as to which drink the man might want to have first, and a hurricane glass filled with a pretty pink liquid appears, topped with an umbrella and a skewer of fruit. Lucifer slides down to be in front of his lover. "Dare I ask what you're hiding upstairs or is that a conversation for much later in the privacy of just us and four walls?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister's smile is wide and thin-lipped, a cheesy grin as Lucifer settles opposite. He looks over at the invasion of privacy moment happening further down the bar, coughs once and gestures with a silent eyebrow and merely a lift of fingers in Lois and Satana's direction -- the silent 'should we do something there?' which judging by the lack of any obvious signs of motivation, is unlikely to just be done without say so. "Well..." leaning in as the drink is set down, another kiss on lips is shared, a peck and little more, before any reply. "If I said 'I don't know what it is' I'm fairly certain it'll still be a conversation for just us and four walls." Mouthed 'a fairy of some kind, I -think-' he reaches his left hand to seek fingers, looking along the bar to the women. Can't help it, it seems. "That's going to end up with all kinds of confusion later, I'm sure."

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     By this point in their relationship, Lois is entirely used to this kind of experience with Satana. She recognizes it as the succubus' version of wimpy avoidance behavior. She sighs, but doesn't seem angry.     "You know, dear, I appreciate that you would not actually throw me on the bar and have your way with me, but you are coming very close." Still, for all that, there is no other reaction, whether carnal or judgmental, nor any anger. Lois looks over at Lucifer and Dr. Essex and smiles. "Sorry! She really likes me and I'm starting to view this as her own take on a friendly hug." Usually accompanied by all sorts of friendliness that the reporter somehow just takes in stride.     But there are limits to what is appropriate with others nearby. "Perhaps you would like another drink? Something to help calm you down? Perhaps a bit lighter fare this time around." Even Lois realizes that a sufficiently intoxicated Satana may /forget/ that Lois is friend, not bedmate, after all. She'd rather not escalate anything in that direction.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana eyes Lucifer suspiciously, not entirely convinced that the Asgardian ale wasn't her 'uncle's' way of having some fun by throwing her off her game. The narrowed eyes relax, however and she shoves that suspicion to the back of her mind. *I mean even if it was true, what could I do to him?* she thinks to herself. "I should probably stick to coffee for a while. There's something in the Asgardian stuff that's slipping past my usual defences. I'm having a Heavenly time trying to stop that bitch from intoxicating me." Of course her curse words would involve the other direction from most's. She chooses instead to get interested in Nick and Sinister's bag of goodness and strangeness. "Did you kidnap some spirit or other to use in unholy rituals?" she asks aloud. "Or perhaps for unholy displays and acts of passion? If the latter, may I watch and possibly participate?" All that play-acting out with Lois and she's spoiling the image she's trying to project ... by just lightly resting a hand on top of Lois' without trying to stroke it, using her knowledge of human arousal cycles and nervous systems to tease. No, it's just ... a friend patting another friend's hand. Absently. "There's a kitsune who visits me quite often. There's a *lot* of untapped passion in the spirit world until you tap those a..." She pauses, glances in brief alarm at Lois, then clams up.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer holds his hands up. "Honestly, I thought the succubus could handle Asgardian Ale. And I thought it was wiser than giving you something completely different of which name I will not utter among...well..." A pause here. "Mortals? Yes. Mortals. Or at least one. Mortal I mean." He offers this and then grins before turning around and working on something while still behind the bar. After several moments, he places a saucer and cup in front of Satana. "Coffee. Should help." Then he glances back to Nathaniel. "Don't know what you caught? Oh that -will- make this more interesting indeed. I cannot wait to see what you've brought home..." Especially since it took Nathaniel a few tries to get the thing up to the Penthouse to begin with. Nick is still showering. Maybe. So that's a thing. He then looks to Lois and offers a more tempered smile. It's soft in nature. "How are things going with Mister Kent these days? Have I already asked that? I might have already asked that. Are the ventures to your end goal moving along as planned?" And THERE is the Grin(tm) of one who KNOWS, but also doesn't know.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Absolutely none whatsoever. I suspect it is a fae spirit, or just a spirit, so in that respect..." gesturing down the bar toward Satana, the study of what happens with otherwordly alcohol seems to have progressed to a calmer point. The hand IS noted. And it might also be that Nick is showering the same shower more than once. Or he might find he's finished and can't remember the in between bits - one has to love temporal anomalies, right? The inquiry made to Lois has him shifting attention from the hand upon the reporter's own in that light touch, to the women's faces, with a quiet trip up across the vast unchartered territory of physical terrain.

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois sighs softly. "Well, hopefully some coffee will work like magic." She is just relaxed, despite what should be an awkward situation. Caring for people sometimes leads to interesting situations! But hey, nobody from another planet has thrown her off a building yet. Honestly, her attention is focused on Satana, but it's more concerned and sympathetic. "You will be okay, won't you?"     She looks over to Lucifer, then to Sinister, and then back again. She imagines they are the experts on Satana's well-being. At least physical well-being. Hopefully?     The pleasant questions do divert her attention for a time, though. "Clark is doing well. He's been busy." She arches an eyebrow at Lucifer's suggestion and grins, "Of course, those ventures are progressing well. I've been very careful with my diet, I've slept at least six hours every night for weeks. And no coffee." She's so healthy it's almost disgusting, really.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Without pausing to let it cool, or even blowing on it to cool it, Satana gulps down the cup of coffee after tossing Lucifer a thankful glance. Wary. But thankful. "I can't recall right now," because drunkenness interferes with scholarship, "but are these beans one of ours or one of His?" She sets down the coffee cup and waits for it to take some effect. "I know booze is one of ours," she opines. "Great invention especially for the likes of me. Booze goggles have led to more sin and soul reaping than any other invention in history, beating out even weaponry." Lucifer's line of Lois' questioning has her glance between the pair in confusion a moment before the penny drops. "Oh! You're working hard..." Mischievous irony drips from her voice like venom from the fangs of a cobra. "...on reproduction! I approve fully. Just also remember it's recreation as well. Don't view it as a chore." Beat. She can't help it. She is who she is. "I can help you with that. Small contract. We can negotiate the outcome. Give you what you want: even guaranteeing the sex, the gender ..." Her voice trails off a bit before she adsds playfully, "Even the species. You'd be amazed at how many couples trying for children are tempted by having a mutant child or even an extradimensional variety."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer takes a slow breath. "Coffee is from..." He pauses. "Nathaniel did the last shipment of coffee come from Brazil or Spain?" Then he thinks. "I think Brazil." He then shrugs. "They're not Heavenly beans if that's what you mean. The only thing I have from Heaven is a few flasks of their Ambrosia and I am -not- parting with that lightly." He's also missing at least one or two more flasks that he hasn't found yet. Stupid Raphael. A glance is given to Nathaniel and he nods. "I see. Well I suppose once we make it upstairs we'll have that discussion. Either tonight or tomorrow dependings..." On how late everything else goes, he imagines. None the less he doesn't have much else to say to the man, but he does make sure his lover does not remain without a drink for too long. Attention to Lois then. "I see. I might have something for you. Don't take the deal with that one... weird things might happen..." He smirks and then turns and kneels down, disappearing almost from complete sight of anyone as he rummages through...something? Someplace? This might take a moment.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As the group has their discussion, there's a bit of an oddness to the feedback coming from Nick's mind. While he is practicing what he was taught by Sinister with the general concert of the mind. There... Well... There's a bit of an echo. Oh sure one could make a singing in the shower joke here but perhaps an echo is not quite the same terminology. Instead, imagine a Destiney's Child full of nothing but Beyonces. And no one wants to sing backup. Got that in your mind? Great. Now gender swap the voice. And now give it the timing of a middle school band in their first concert. Are you scared yet? ... You should be. 'Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey you, so you hit another brick wall Hey! Hey! Hey! Your beat down but your not behind the 8-Ball Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey you, when you break it's not a What the fuck? reason to bleed Hey you, so you hit another brick wall Hey! Hey! Hey! Let's Go. Let's go. Let's go Your beat down but your not behind the 8-BallHey! Hey! Hey! Hey you, when you break Who ar- it's not a reason to bleed Hey you, so you hit another brick wall Let's Go. Let's go. Let's go. Your Stop that! beat down but your not behind the 8-Ball...' The clusterfuck of finely tuned voices trapped in a hellish cannon continues on for a bit with One voice voicing discontent with the situation until there is the mental scratch of a record. Silence. After a reasonable amount of silence. A trio of voices start up again. But different. And very much not Nick's and not in English. And likely by intention. Hmm. Wonder what made him think of songs with multiple singers? Nick eventually makes it back into the club. Freshly showered, hair dried, and a less than amused expression upon his face.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Well, SOMETHING here piqued Sinister's interest. One eyebrow twitches upward just a little bit, an 'oh-ho' moment even though grey eyes slip to Satana and Lucifer in turn, as it is evident that you can take the Demon/Angel out of hell, but you can't take hell out of the... Well, maybe you can. But a deal's a deal mate! Even if the price is nothing in the scheme of things. He finds himself laughing, a quiet chuckle at the advice given on sex and the ponderings regarding the coffee cherry. "Kenyan actually. High altitude kilimanjaro small farm roast." And then there's distraction. The song that got badly recorded in the dub and caused the sound editor to get the sack. That song -- it distracts enough for him to be staring into the middle distance trying to work out the why or the how, perhaps, so much that it brings him to shaking his head, closing eyes and silencing his own mind. "Whilst these two can offer their own take on ... assisting... if you wish I can take a look at pre-existing conditions, hormone levels, genetic compatabilities and several other factors that the rest of the world haven't caught up to me with, yet. Just the pre-screen might give peace of mind." The elevator's being stared at too, for the disgorging of a rockstar. See you? I'm -staring- at you. Or I will be.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana stares around, looking for offending speakers. "Uncle, can you turn off that sound system, or at least make it play music that doesn't belong in the seventh Circle?" she asks, more than a little peevishly. "Maybe a bit of Burning Witches? They're a current obsession of mine. The contract was so ridiculously easy to land too! They'll be joining Jim in my orchestra when their contract runs out..."

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois laughs softly. "Satana, dear, I truly appreciate your offer to help, but I would really prefer we not introduce contracts and deals to our friendship. I am not here to use you. Not for a baby, and not for... that other thing you are extremely good at." Wink wink, nudge nudge.     But Lucifer and Sinister seem to not quite be pulling out contracts and bargaining for her soul. "Well, I am interested in making sure I'm healthy. I'm not sure my insurance coverage would work, but perhaps my pen can serve you further yet? I still have that investigation going for the earlier request."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer finally comes back from wherever he was, and he holds a small box which is then placed in front of Lois. "When you get home, open the box and place what is inside under your pillow. It's nothing dire - I promise. Just...some stones that are from my personal collection and known to have properties to aid you in your...quest." Quest? Yes. Lois is undergoing a quest. A quest to have a baby. If Lucifer can do one thing, it's help out a dear friend. Regardless of the fact that, until recently, the idea of children utterly disgusted him. "I will have you know that the music which is playing is NOT from the Seventh Circle. There's no wailing or ailing anywhere to be heard..." Still, he waves a hand and something is done, because the music changes to soft piano mixed with some sort of Lo-Fi Hip Hop beat. He smirks. "Do you want more coffee, Satana, or something to put you out for the rest of the night perhaps?" A Nick has appeared. A bit disgruntled, but none the less. "Something from the bar Nick? I can't serve alcohol much longer, legally, but if you're quick I can get you something." Nathaniel is staring at an elevator. Not much Lucifer can so about that.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Sinister's early prep to look to the elevator awards him the privilege of seeing the expression on Nick's face before most others. Lips set to a thin line, he makes his way to the bar with only the Swedish mental notes being his accompaniment. Taking a seat at the bar, he takes a deep breath, and folds his hands on the countertop. A simple nod to the Lucifer seems to be enough to confirm that a drink is definitely needed. "It's a whiskey type of night." Nick responds, breaking his verbal silence. As the more harmonic song ends, Nick turns to look to the curious Sinister. "...It was like the elevator. Only with the shower and hair dryer." He pauses, "...I think I even saw myself. Without the use of a mirror."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "It might at that," Sinister comments to Lois, a faint smile gracing his face even if he's not looking -- rather at the arrival when Nick emerged. And then, to Satana as something processes through the self-induced brainfog. Switching everything to 'white noise' setting, can be quite disturbing when you don't do it often, you know. "You heard it? Fascinating..." But something in the attitude towards the 'questing' possibility has him looking wryly proud. Helpfully, for Lucifer's benefit, he taps his temple with an index finger, to indicate where HE was hearing it, though the change of music in the club itself has him wrinkling his nose faintly. Whiskey? Whiskey. And the nose wrinkle transforms into a double-eyebrow lift, though just as slight as the other one. Can't be TOO surprised now. "If you come by Saint Margaret's, Lois, I can make sure you're treated like a queen. Clark just needs a minor contribution. It's not him doing most of the work, is it?"

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois accepts the gift from Lucifer with a grateful smile. "Thank you! It is very kind. I appreciate it." And Dr. Essex's offer gets a playful smirk. "Well, yes, there is that thing he does." She doesn't even blush! She's just too old for that.     "And I will take you up on that offer, Dr. Essex. I'd like a second opinion. It's not that I don't trust my doctor, but, well, this is just very important to me." She will sadly not be able to provide Clark DNA. That would be... a problem really fast!     She notices Nick after the others. She smiles at him and calls out, "Long day, Nick? It sounds like you've had... an experience." She cannot help but ask, "Is that normal in the hotel, or is this unusual?"

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "I quite looking at myself," Satana opines (to precisely nobody's surprise). "I mean with a body like this how could I not enjoy it? It's quite fun to play with portals so that I can view myself from all angles. Or to place them in such a way that when I'm playing with a playmate I can watch from all angles as I desire." She gives Nick a critical once-over, then ... adds nothing. No praise. No snark. let people translate that however they like... If Satana is hurt that Lois rejected her help, it's not showing. (She probably understands why...) Instead she snorts, "Of course the women do most of the work. Look at my trade. For every incubus-favoured there's a dozen succubus-favoured. This is because we're better at doing the actual work instead of wanting everybody to preen at us!" Says the demon who was just talking about how she likes looking at herself from different angles.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "I'm starting to fear that strange occurrences are becoming a thing with the poor lad..." Lucifer says, looking in Nick's direction. "Might cause him to quit coming around at this rate..." Ending it on that note with a little smirk. "You're quite welcome, Lois. Again, nothing too strange or abnormal. Just some stones that I know are empowered to be good for your kind of endeavor...and I even included one that may work on Clark in some fashion. Which is why I say to place it under your pillow." Or whichever pillow she happens to be sleeping on when ... ahem ... with the lad of her dreams. A whiskey is poured for Nick and placed in front of him. "Course, the better stuff is upstairs. You're welcome to join myself and Nathaniel once the night ends here..." Offering this much. "Hopefully we'll get to the bottom of the strange happenings and they won't last terribly long." To everything else, there's a shrug. People are beginning to leave - at least the patrons of the night that isn't his few close within his presence. He's got other bartenders to take care of closing tabs and the like while his attention is focused forthwith.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick nods as Lucifer quickly prepares his requested drink. "Thanks. I'll keep that in mind." He sort of accepts, glancing to Lois, and then noticing Satana looking him over. He blinks, looking to her quietly. He looks back to Lois, "Yes. Long day." He pauses to the mention of things not lasting long. "It was kind of like if time was on a slip of paper, taped together then crushed and there are points you just see where all the other parts have joined up. Including versions of you from where you once were and will be. Either way, I mostly remember stepping out of the shower, a lot of echo.... and then suddenly I was on the other side of the room, dressed and hair dried. I'm assuming that was the end of that particular instance. But... yeah." Shaking his head, he picks up the glass to sip the contents. "Wonder if that means I'm going to get a lot of memories of going to bed and just pop out on the other end of it later. "

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' A look is shot all over the Land of Satana, nodding slowly after. "With good reason, I feel. You know...." -- about to comment on the strange state of the human species, Sin bites his tongue and instead grins "...no, you summarized rather well there. Love the dramatic irony." There is though, a nod to Lois as he rises from his stool. "I'll make it happen. Just let me know a time." Pause. "Do have a fantastic rest of the night, ladies." A gesture is made at the elevator "However, duty and curiosity calls. Because:..." gesture at what Nick had just said. "If you'll excuse?" At least there's a gentlemanly half-bow, "...strange happenings have bottoms that must be grabbed." Pause, stare, shake head. "No, I'm keeping that one." As he heads to the penthouse.

:'''{{#var:256|Lois Lane (256)}} has posed:'''     Lois takes that as her cue, as well. "I suppose I had best get home, too." Hopefully viaa princess carry flight courtesy of a very handsome superheroic fiance of hers. "Satana, are you feeling okay, though? I'm not going to leave you here if you are feeling a bit... off." She means drunk. And yes, the reporter is somehow thinking she is going to defend the succubus from people who want to take advantage of her.     She truly does understand what succubuses do, honest. But it's Satana. She /likes/ Satana. "Maybe I should make sure you get home safe, honestly." Even if that just means helping her through a portal.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Oh, Lois, you're such a worry-wart," Satana says, pulling Lois in for a hug. ...And theeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeere it is... The slightly-less-tipsy-but-still-there succubus places both hands where a squeeze does the most good while pulling Lois in for the hug. "I have a room here," she says, "so no worries about me being assaulted on the way home. Or teleporting into something inconvenient like deep space." Her voice lowers into a murmur for Lois' ear only. "You can join me in the room if you'd like?" After all by now Lucifer's staff would have done the cleanup, right? Releasing Lois with a wide grin--she knows what she just did and did it out of malicious humour--she steps back and looks Lois over. "I hope your endeavour with offspring works out well for you. I can be the crazy aunt that guides your son or daughter astray. I excel at that."
}}

16153/Bounty Hunt

2024-04-12T17:17:30Z

PoeWolf: Thomas, Nick, and Harry meet to discuss the bounty.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/29
|Location=Private Office, the Blue Lady
|Synopsis=Thomas, Nick, and Harry meet to discuss the bounty.
|Cast of Characters=7044, 9039, 174
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith had left orders with Axe and Crush that Nick and Harry were to be shown straight up to his office without delay. He's already deactivated anything electronic such as Computers, TV's, his Scooby doo night light... And when the pair are shown in is drinking something that is definatly not iced tea.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Considering the nature of the phone call he had received. Nick's arrival to the Blue Lady was reasonably quick. He would have popped into the building directly but ....manners. So the sometimes figure of ill-omen popped in via shortcut to a nearby alley. Once he was certain no one was watching, he shifted back to his regular form and went around the corner to come in. His attire was definitely not meant for performing a show tonight. Jeans, jacket. Presumedly a shirt under said jacket, gloves and a knitcap make up the ensemble. And judging from the bit of scruff to him, he may not have been fully awake when Thomas initially called. Quite the turnaround really. Once the musician makes his way to the office, he knocks the side of the open door before letting himself in. Oh hey. No invite. And he don't care. "So any explanation to why this asshole put out the list?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Harry is his usual grumbly self. He doesn't love having to drop everything, but apparently this is important enough. Thomas is a lot of things, but reactionary to anything other than females he isn't. Harry nods to the man who shows him the way. Not that he doesn't know the way, but just letting the guy feel like he can do his job. No knocking, he opens the door and walking in. Somewhere in the back of his mind is the slight dread that he might walk in on Thomas and Faith doing less than standing and dressed behaviors. Fortunately, that isn't the case.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' The White Courtier takes a long drink of very expensive scotch, refills his glass, and steps away from the personal wetbar, gesturing for the other two men to help themselves. He'd tried to explain to Harry the situation, but of course trying to call Harry on the telephone is often less useful then running a taunt string across town and talking into two tin cans. "Count Pablo Ortega has issued bounties. Allot of them. He dropped the list off with me, as a curtasy. Sent a lawyer to do it." He looks at the business card "Franklin DiMoony of Takk, DiMoony, and Rahn." He shoots the drink back and gestures to the paper on the desk. "Faith and Buffy are on there. Willow too. The Winchester Brothers. You Harry. Some other names I don't know. Faith seemed to think it was funny they were only offering Five grand for some guy named Xander Harris."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick nods, listening to the summary. "That's probably because Xander doesn't have any powers or super strength. Or magic..." He pauses, "That one seems less 'view him as a threat' and more of a personal attack." He pauses, "So... what did you guys do to piss him off so much? Kill one of his guys?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Shanking his head, Harry mutters something under his breath before he says clearer,"The think about Ortega. He knows how to pick his enemies. The other names people you don't know or you don't know the other names on the list?" Harry asks,"Show me the list." Grumpy guy is giving way to try to see a pattern guy. He glances to Nick and tells him,"Some of them decided to play with fire and it ended poorly." That sounds like a story,"In easier terms, we're still alive and an affront to his existence."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith hands the list over to his brother. Nick and Thomas's own names are noticibly absent though others Harry might know are on there William and Georgia Bordon. Michael Carpenter. Prudence, Piper, Phoebe Halliwell. Paige Mathews. Macy Vaugh, Maggie and Melody Diaz. Almost all of them worth at least $1,000,000. Only Xander's name is less then five digits. ... Justine is $15,000.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As Thomas hands the list over to Harry, Nick looks to the wizard to somewhat gauge his reaction. It's certainly a better option than him trying to look over the man's shoulder. For one the height difference would make it very awkward.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Ambitious tool isn't he?" Harry mutters darkly,"The Hallwell's are witches. Strong ones at that." he mutters,"A Knight of the Cross too. That will get all their attention. So Ortega really is begging for it. The Winchesters brothers I don't know well, but know they aren't to be taken lightly either."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods casually to Harry's impression, gesturing for him to show the list to the other man as well. "I've made some descreet calls. Ortega is still in Mexico. Doubt he plans on coming here any time soon. He's just trying to make it so that your average gang bangers start taking random shots, and hoping someone somewhere gets lucky. You think it's gonna be the Joker that takes out Batman? It's gonna be some lucky motherfucker with a gun and a good shot."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick cracks a slight smile to the mention of the Winchesters. "I met Dean around the time I met Buffy. Seems a vampire stole his car to go looking for me. He didn't fare very well. Haven't met the brother though." He pauses, looking to Thomas, "...I thought you said Harry was involved with the accords. If the Red Court's involved too, how can he go about putting out contracts on other members without any consequences?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "You know there is a thought..." he mutters to himself. Neither of them would have an idea what the thought is mind you, but a thought. He frowns thoughtfully and chases his own line of thinking for a minute. Finally he mutters to Nick,"The Red Court is involved, but prove it. If they use puppets to do their bidding who will know? Just be mindful of...well everything really. For the time being. If it moves, it's a concern."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly, "Some coked up gang banger happens to shoot Harry on the street. A few hours later same coked up gang banger happens to have a million dollars appear in his bank account. What an amazing coincidence." Thomas says with obvious distaste. "And of course as the Scion of the White Court they can't put me on the list because it would be... bad manners." He says rolling his eyes and refilling his drink again. Not normally a drinker, but when he drinks he drinks /allot/.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick looks over to Harry to the warning. Frowning. Thomas said he wasn't on the list so of the three, he's got the least to worry about. Well, with this situation. He's got other people to worry about. "Are you suggesting a possible misdirect for something else entirely?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' A deeper frown and Harry muses,"Tell Faith we need to talk soon. I want to get a group together to deal with something that has been hanging over us. If we can deal with it and bring it in alive...I think I have a little presence for Ortega." he mutters. "It is possible it is a misdirection, but it sounds like an axe to grind. Ortega needs to feel like he is important." Harry agrees,"Don't discount the idea he isn't up to something bigger, but mostly this feels like his ego needs stroked and he needs indirect attention."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods. "Faith was here when the letter came. I think she went out to warn some of her own people." He says simply, "But yeah we'll all get the group together soome and see what to make of this." To Nick he adds, "If my father had made this list, i'd say look for the hidden move. The Red Court aren't nearly that subtle. Harry's right, this is Ortega stirring the pot. If someone takes one or two of us out? Great. If all he does is work us up into a lather? Also great.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Hmm. Ok." Nick nods, "Although. How on earth did he come up with that particular list? If it was purely name recognition.... Why Xander?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Faith and I have to something else going and I want to discuss some ideas on how to wrangle of the lastest thing that bothers dreams." he comments,"Two birds. One stone. One serious screw you to Ortega for being a problem for us."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly to Harry. "I'll make sure it happens. In the mean time make sure Willow knows to be careful. I don't like how many Scoobies are on this list. Like Nick said, why is even Xander even on here except by association with Buffy and her crew.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick looks over to Harry curiously. "...So what's the problem? Are you having issues with another dream walker or something more demonic?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Harry nods to Thomas,"I think I have an idea the sort your girlfriend will enjoy. I will get Willow aware of what it happening. Just one more feather in her cap." A shake of his head,"Some of the locals are having a similar dream. Last time it happened we got to meet a legendary monster or two. Chupacabra and the dogman. This looks to be worse."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly and taps a name on the list, "I'd rather neither of you bring it up with Faith, but Paige Mathews is the red head in my own dreams. Justine is on here too, and I thought she was already dead except Madeline showed me a photograph..." He pulls out a grainy polaroid of a girl who looks too young to be working a stripper pole, but definately is. "To be fair I figured my dear sweet cousin sent me there in the hopes I'd get eaten by the propritor... but now this... I just don't know."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick pauses. Giving a nod. "Ah... prophetic. Well, those just suck. Actually helping with something that also is involving one of those types of dreams" He pauses, "...Although I think we might be working on different things." He pauses, looking over to Thomas, "...The one in that alternate reality dream?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Red heads will get you killed." Harry replies to Thomas. A funny thing to say considering his girlfriend carries that same red headed distinction,"Since Faith is as likely to kill the messenger as the culprit, I think you are safe." he suggests in regards to telling her anything. He nods to Nick,"In a manner of speaking. They all had a very similar dream. Little difference, but overall the same. Faith, Molly, Sabrina, Cassie, Buffy, and now Raven. To say the least whoever this is likes to screw with powers way out of their depth."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly to Nick. "That's the one. Haven't had that dream in weeks, but it's still rather creepy as you might imagine." to Harry he raises an eyebrow, "So it's all women as well? Or is that just a coincidence do you think?" He asks calmly, though his eye twitches at some of those names.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Just to be sure there's no overlap. Were there any mention of stones or cults in these dreams?" Nick wonders, "Either way, although I get the general sense that it'll never come to it, if you need my help with anything, you guys do have it."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "All women yes. All women that are connected to the mystical arts in one way or another." he explains,"Witches, Amazon, Slayers, and the like." He sighs and looks at the list one last time,"I should go find Willow so she's up on the situation. I will have her tell Buffy too. If I can reach the sisters or the brothers I will, but assume I don't see them so tell them too."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly, "I was planning on seeing Billy and Georgia latter this evening, I'll get them to put word out on the Paranet. Maybe get word out to some of these names that we don't recognize." He walks over to a powered down printer and pulls a sheet of paper out of the tray. Apprently having the forethought to print off a copy before harry came over. "I'm not going to bother telling either of you to be careful. Just for my own sake, don't die. funeral flowers are expensive as hell in this recession.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Taking the general hint that the conversation is ending, Nick cracks a slight smile. "You know I will." He assures Thomas, while stepping for the door. "I'm so cautious that people forget I exist." There's a chuckle before he looks over to Thomas, "But seriously, if you need my help with anything. You got my number."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Harry takes the list of names and folds it, placing the paper into his duster pocket. He nods to them both,"Careful is over rated." he mutters. Still makes a few motions with his hand to wave off concern,"Thanks for the heads up. Maybe call next time and tell me Faith is pregnant. You know something really dangerous." With that he turns and heads for the door.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith smiles and shakes his head pouring himself one more drink and trading grips with his friend and his brother. "I have to get my quarterly tax filings reported as well. I might fuck with the Red Court, but the IRS? Now that is truly evil."
}}

16154/Getting rid of the evidence.

2024-04-12T17:17:22Z

PoeWolf: Jacen gets an up close look at the future with Sarah and Cameron acting as tour guides.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/30
|Location=In the woods, off the beaten path.
|Synopsis=Jacen gets an up close look at the future with Sarah and Cameron acting as tour guides.
|Cast of Characters=9890, 10414, 9892
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' After the events at the park, the trio had made a hasty retreat. Sarah and Cameron were in synch in a lot of ways. In terms that Jacen would get more than perhaps most, this wasn't their first rodeo. So many machines sent after them and so many of them thwarted. All to keep John safe. They had brought Jacen along for the ride. He deserved to hear the truth. He'd been a friend and ally to Sarah for a time now. After seeing what he had? There was no doubt of questions being involved. Cameron had loaded the body into the bed of the truck, covering it with a tarp and making sure it was well hidden. Then she had opted to take the driver's seat. Her reflexes were faster than that of the humans. All weapons were in the hands of Sarah and, if he chose to participate in the insanity, Jacen. On the trip there was a single stop at a gas station where a couple of gas cans and the fluid to fill them were purchased with cash. They eventually reached a spot they had used a few times now. There was even a charred spot on the ground where they often did the burnings. If anyone ever did find it, they would presume it was a probably someone camping as it was well off the paved roads. At least four dirt roads and then something that might be considered a trail that maybe once had been used regularly but now was completely overgrown. Cameron set about unloading the body and adding it to the blackened circle on the ground. Then she moved back to the bed of the truck to grab a small toolbox. After all, she needed some parts to have for times when she was broken. The skin would heal but the machine beneath needed maintenance. Her hands were currently hidden in a pair of gloves so the metallic skeleton wasn't visible to the naked eye. Her face? Not so much. The metal was still visible through a few cuts there but at least most of it was still in place. More than she could say for the now defunct machine she was about to begin dismantling. She set the toolbox on the ground and opened the top, reaching in for a utility knife to begin the dirty work.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' Curiosity. The great cat killer. Jacen agrees to go along for the trip and opts to mostly study the situation. He listens to the way the two do or don't interact with each other. Occasionally he glances the pile of scrap in the back of the truck. There is a lot on his mind and finally he does say,"Ah'ight. I ain' much more'n a cowboy'n paramedic. M' grandfather taught me ta be within th' magical world. This beats th' hell outa anything I ever seen. I've seen heroes flyin' an' fightin' th' bad sorts, but this's...." He looks back at the cover again and at the gas can,"Will gasoline get hot 'nough ta burn all tha'....evidence I suppose."

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' Sarah got some cans out from the back of the truck. "Make sure John sees that." She nodded with her chin at whatever it was that Cameron was prying out from the head. "Damn things. Sometimes I think it would be better to hit the road. I know, right now it's better to know where they are than keeping John out of sight." Speaking of John.. Where was he?? Sarah watches Cameron strip the body of various things that she can use. A low laugh comes from Sarah. "You are a weird man. Most would be appalled that we have dragged a body out here. No, gasoline isn't hot enough. We've come prepared though." She holds up a can. "And no, it's not a human. And Cameron isn't my daughter. And I go by at least a dozen aliases, but Sarah is my real name."

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' That gets Cameron's attention and she glances over at the duo. She's opened various pieces and parts of the machine to take out items which are placed into an empty duffle bag for now. Chips, motors, transponders, wiring, backup battery system. "He's the weird one?" And there is a hint of a smirk. Which seems very not machine like. Then she goes back to what she is doing. After all, they rarely get a terminator that is a model close to her own. More often it's a T-850, which only some of the inner bits are usable for her smaller frame. She couldn't salvage an entire arm from one of those. This one? She had both arms from elbow down stripped, uninstalled, and stowed away quickly. Fingers were always in the most danger so better to have plenty to choose from should it become necessary. She wouldn't finish until the duffle was practically full and the 'body' was no longer recognizable as such outside the head. "No, I am not her daughter. I am also not human. I'm a cybernetic organism: living tissue over a metal endoskeleton. It allows us to blend with humans in order to terminate their existence more efficiently." Which probably was not the best sentence to end on but that's where Cameron paused to see if he comprehended.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' He listens to the two women interact without comment at first. He watches Cameron take parts and makes a note in his mind. For a moment he glances at Sarah and replies,"Mos' people wouldn' notice th' fact that th' body's a machine. Got ta see th' internal components up close." he tells her,"It ain' hard ta buy inta th' idea of super mechanical beings'n a world full aliens, mutants, magic tossers, vampires...." he leaves the list at that. He looks back at Cameron and nods,"I wasn' terribly convinced she w's y'r daughter ta b'gin with. People gotta have their secrets." He considers Cameron's words and raises a brow,"So y'r like them, only not. Somethin' programmed different." He considers the comment about terminating humans and he raises a brow. His hand rests on the medicine pouch for a second and he says,"Y'all plannin' somethin' extra f'r th' fire t'day?" Instantly stepping to where he can watch both and calling upon something. Not that either can see, but a spirit cougar appears in front of him, screaming silently into the ether.

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' Sarah narrows her eyes at Cameron. "Whose side are you on, and what's with the humour?" Apparently John had tweaked her programming. The fact that they had found a terminator so close to Cameron was a bonus. And not.. Skynet was up to. But what? "Cameron was once one of them." Hey, she almost said a good thing about Cameron. "This one is a close match for parts. Normally we take out the CPU to shut it down, then we burn the fuck out of it. Back at the park you might have say Cameron open up a compartment behind its left ear. Otherwise we would still be fighting it. They have a 90 second reboot before any part of it that is still able to be controlled keeps on fighting. They have been known to arise from their ashes days later and fight again." "So far? The only way we have found to stop them is to take out the CPU. Which means close quarters, and a really short amount of time." She looks over to Jacen. "When they are trying to get me or John, you, and others, don't matter. You are the same as a tree, a tire, anything..And.." Here she sighs. "You might be in danger for knowing me. I've tried to keep you away for that reason. Now? It's irrelevant."

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' Cameron looks confused for a moment at the question of which side she was on. She had thought it was obvious at this point yet there was the question. She didn't answer though as she waited for Sarah to explain that bit more information. "We can be destroyed in other ways but we are very resistant to most things humans can achieve. High explosives. Crushing weights. Temperatures high enough to melt metal. Things of that sort. For a human, the easiest way is to remove the chip from our heads as that stops us entirely. We are resistant to EMF but can be shut down shortly with enough electricity. Though that starts the reboot cycle mentioned by Sarah." She moved to put the duffle in the back of the truck then turned her attention to the humans once more. "We were created to terminate humanity, at the command of Skynet. In that future, this world is dust, rubble, and the remains of most of humanity. Though Skynet has found heavy resistance from a small group of humans." She paused a moment to let that sink in. "Skynet will continue to send terminator machines to try to destroy John Connor at all costs. I was sent by John to protect his younger self." There were the seeds though she hadn't said outright until she added, "That is the future that you face if we fail." Then she added. "My suggestion is once we take you back to the city, you never speak to any of us again. For your own safety. But I have found humans rarely are logical."

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' Jacen listens to both of them and frowns. His mind is working over things. This is a lot to process. A lot. His tongue rolls across his upper teeth and he asks,"So these things come fr'm th' future? They got all kindsa advanced tech I reckon. So if one sees me, do they all see me?" He glances to Cameron and nods,"Yeah. I hear what y'r tellin' me. I jus' wonder'f by gettin' inta it with th's one I ain' already marked by them anyway." he tells her,"M' own safety's right out th' winda if them computers passed m' face ta somethin' else. I ain' thriled with th' idea o' fightin' th' things, but even less thrilled on m' own with no real understandin' of these things."

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' A short laugh comes from Sarah. "You have to admit that I am a bit paranoid when it comes to John. Would you have me any other way though?" Thinking about John and how he was the hope for humanity. Looking at Jacen, "She's right though. Your best bet is to forget meeting me, and all this stuff. They will kill you to get at me, to reach John." To answer his question, "It all depends. Up until today you weren't a person of high priority. After tonight? Maybe. If she managed to download her observations, then, yes, a certain portion of them will automatically know of you. They are, essentially, high powered computers with a whole deck of special features."

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' "She did not transmit her information before she was terminated." At least that would hopefully be reassuring for Jacen and Sarah. Though that also brought up the fact that Sarah would've gotten the message just like any other killing machine. "She also was not the one we learned is actively hunting John. This was a chance encounter. Thus, the machine we were warned about is still active. John must remain in the bunker until it is found and removed from the scenario." She looked back to Jacen. "My kind are sent back for various reasons, not always just to hunt for John Connor. Skynet will do whatever it feels is necessary for its own protection. And Creation." Which was enough to make one's head explode if they tried to think about it too much. "Though in this world, there is technology that was not existent in the history that I remember. Leading me to suspect that history has already been changed in some manner. We cannot presume Skynet is defeated though until there are no more terminators active." Which she included herself in that number, despite her different programming at the hands of the adult John Connor in her time.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' "Hmm." he grunts. Not a thoughtful sound, more an annoyed sound. He looks over the side of the truck at the cassis of the mechanical monster. His tongue clicks once and finally he says,"So these bastards move forward'n back in time. When they do, they screw up th' time line'n th' process. Future ain't static, it c'n be changed fr'm day ta day." He frowns at Cameron and asks,"So ya know f'r sure that thing didn' send nothin' out? Ah'ight. F'r now let's get th' thing d'stroyed'n get back ta my truck. I gotta think 'bout this f'r a bit. I ain' real big on abandonin' somebody jus' b'cause they're 'n bad spot."

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' Handing one of the cans to Cameron, Sarah begins to douse the body. iF Jacen wants there is another can. "You really aren't. This has been my life since before John was born. His father sacrificed everything to make it so that I could get away. I'm used to this life. This is much more than a bad spot. And frankly you don't want to. Your life would change. And probably for the worse."

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' "If you become known as an associate, you could be used to try to influence Sarah to give up John's location. You should be aware she will never do so and you will die should that happen." Cameron laying it out there. But Jacen seems the type who would understand. It's the reason she felt it should be said. He would know what he was signing up for. "Though..." She tilted her head slightly. "You are three inches taller than John and approximately 15 pounds lighter. Yet you have the same type of build, hair colors similar. With the right clothing. The right setting. We might be able to draw out the hunter machine." Bait?

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' Taking the other can, Jacen goes about getting the thing ready to burn. He makes a trail of fuel away from the thing so they have a means to get out of the way. Cameron might or might not enjoy being in a fire after all. He is thoughtful,"God knows I hate ta be bored." he grumbles. Once the trail is made he puts the rest on the maching,"I'm gona hafta do somethin' I ain' really known more. Gonna hafta give it some thought." He looks to Cameron and winks inspite of himself,"You're right. Ya gotta be a machine ta suggest that one. I like ya inspite o' m'self. I'm guessin' John's just a run o' th' mill human sort."

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' "John is a genius. But.." Here, Sarah has to admit, "He's just a human, like me. No magic. No mutancy. Just plain old run of the mill humans." Except for his genius. To this day Sarah didn't know /how/ he was going to beat Skynet, but given the amount of money and resources spent trying to stop him? She had no doubt he was the one. She snaps around to Cameron. "You've got to be kidding?! I'm trying to save his sorry ass, and you go and tell him /that/?" Cameron's got a point though.. no. She won't. No.

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' "He is a human who has been well trained thanks to Sarah. He has proven to be a tactical genius, in addition to his abilities with technology. He has been able to outthink Skynet at every turn, despite the many inherent advantages Skynet has had through the variety of terminating machines." She looked at Sarah, not bothered in the last by the reaction. After all, one had to be human to care, right? "It would be efficient by drawing out the machine for elimination. He likely will be choosing to stay in danger anyway as that seems to happen often." Though if one thinks about that fact a lot of those allies are no longer there, they might catch on what a bad idea it was. Yet Sarah drew allies. She also had many resources and contacts she has established through the years, who had their own tree of connections. Throw in the resistance fighters in this time as well--which she had not mentioned to Jacen because she didn't want to cause him an aneurysm--and they might have a chance. "It is his choice of course. Once he has time to think about it. For now, we should get this finished and I need to get to the garage for some self diagnostics."

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' A time of consideration and then asks,"So how are they? Couldja trick'm like that?" Curious + adrenaline junkie. What could possibly go wrong. He rubs his jaw thoughtfully. Is it dumb to even think about? Of course it is. "Let's get th's done'n let me think on th' other. I think we might be able work somethin' out'f ya want. Even if it's only th' one time. If th' kid's that important, don' reckon it'd be good ta let'm die. Still...reckon I gotta get a few things'n order if I agree ta do this after all."

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' Sarah shakes her head. Cameron knew that if it became John or anybody else? She would throw them on the ground as a buffer, no questions asked. She wouldn't like it, but she would do it. "They are smart. And quite likely would detect the ruse. But there is always a small percent chance that they might be confused thinking we tried to make John not so in their face." She couldn't believe what she was hearing. John wasn't a little boy - he had to know that? Maybe he said like that to bolster his decision? Sarah looked at Cameron. "Do you think we could do it? And would we get some vital information for the Resistance?"

:'''{{#var:9890|Cameron (9890)}} has posed:''' "It is a small percentile chance. But if they thought he was John and he was out in a vulnerable location with the two of us..." Cameron gave that oh-so-human shrug. "It is possible they would be confused long enough to give up some information. Or they may give up nothing but if they can be removed, that would allow John to return from hiding." Which she knew that would appeal to Sarah as it likely was driving the woman mad not having her son in line-of-sight. She did think to add something that might appeal to them both. "If things go poorly, we can simply reveal he is not John and that should keep him safe. The will focus on you and I," she looked at Sarah. "Likely allowing him time to escape. Or help with his abilities which are something Skynet and terminators have no concept of: Magic."

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' "Let's get th's over with'n let me get some things lined up." he finally says and moves to the end of the trail of fuel he made,"I ain' sayin' yes'r no either one right now. B'fore we do anything I'm gonna make sure m' affairs're in order. Y'all got me convinced o' one thing. This's big enough ta at least do that much. He nods to Cameron and adds,"Might's well see'f they c'n adjust ta it. Y'all don' like assimilate folk like th' Borg'r nothin' right?"

:'''{{#var:9892|Sarah Connor (9892)}} has posed:''' Cameron was right. Damn. She was right. Double damn. And without knowing where John was.. sure he was safe if they captured her. But she hates not being able to protect him the way she has done so for the past 20 years. With the exception of when she was in the mental hospital. Damn, damn, shit, fuck, damn. "Right then. If he agrees, let's do it."
}}

16156/Antiques sword show

2024-04-12T17:10:35Z

PoeWolf: Gabby is debating buying her big sister a present. Emma Frost drops in to show off how rich she is. Turns out people who work in antique stores like rich people more than teenagers! Who'd have guessed.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/30
|Location=Fontainebleu Antiques, Yonkers
|Synopsis=Gabby is debating buying her big sister a present. Emma Frost drops in to show off how rich she is. Turns out people who work in antique stores like rich people more than teenagers! Who'd have guessed.
|Cast of Characters=7430, 113
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:7430|Gabby (7430)}} has posed:''' Normally you would never ever /ever/ find Gabby Kinney, better known as Honey Badger, in an antique store. Rich boring old people stuff. Bleh no way! But there is an exception. She heard they sell /weapons/. Specifically swords. Who doesn't like a cool old sword that might be magical and glow with terrible & deadly might? People who aren't fun that's who. Of course antique stores generally frown upon teenagers coming in and handling the merchandise. Which is why poor Gabby is pouting and looking longingly at what is probably a very mundane boring sword. A duffel bag slung over her shoulder. While one of the stores employees lurks nearby waiting for an excuse to throw her out. Which hasn't come up juuuuust yet. But from the scowl on the employees face? They sure as heck think she's about to!

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' There is a chime at the door as it opens, and in walks money! A LOT of money comes because of the one and only Emma Frost, complete with bodyguards who hold the door open for her.      The statuesque blond walks into the place and looks around; she smiles, having spotted Gabby. She wondered who she sensed in the limo. It was Gabby.      walking with a model grace she smiles. " Gabby, how nice to see you "

:'''{{#var:7430|Gabby (7430)}} has posed:''' It's not just telepaths who can tell who someone is from a distance. A little sniff of the air and her super senses let Gabby tell who just came into the store without looking around. Eyes still fixed on the precious. Which just so happens to be a sword that probably wasn't ever stuck in a stone, given it was made in the 1700s by an Italian swordsmith called Andrea Ferara, but is expensive enough to not be considered a toy. And real enough to be pretty dangerous! "Hey Miss Frost," she says. Still not looking around. "Here to buy yourself another.. Uh... rich people thingy?" She has money too! Don't ask where it came from. And certainly don't test to see if there was ever any blood splatter on it. It's better not to know in case a lawyer asks you questions later. Very briefly she peeks over her shoulder to confirm the voice really does belong to Emma, as if someone might buy the sword while her eyes aren't on it, and waves. Her gaze skips over the bodyguards without comment. They're hired help. And in the world of mutant assassins and super bodyguards that makes them little more than goons. Poor guys. <<It must be weird being rich. She left the house without a skirt on and no-one thought to mention it! Oh wait. Can she read my mind? Are you reading it now? Wait don't answer I don't wanna know. Uhm. Think about something else.... But not that you forgot your big sisters birthday. Darn it!>>

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Smirks a little to herself. That comment on her outfit was nice. She likes praise, after all, but the tall blond leans over to look at the sword for a moment." That's a lovely sword " .      She snaps her fingers and points; she doesn't bother asking or even thinking that the staff won't jump and grab it out for her to look at because they will. That's just how Emma works, after all .      .oO Were you looking to buy the sword for the big sister's birthday? You forgot Oo. yep, she's gonna be evil. but also nice cause she has them bring it out for gabby to see.

:'''{{#var:7430|Gabby (7430)}} has posed:''' There are lots of ways a trained individual can keep a telepath from skimming their mind. Or at least make it harder for stray thoughts to leak out. The main one Gabby has been told of is a very martial artist sort of approach. Clearing the mind and becoming one with the inner... something. Honestly she stopped listening somewhere around the point she was trying to clear her mind. Meditation isn't really her thing. "Swords aren't lovely," she says with a shake of her head. "They are either cool or badass. Depending on how giant they are." Those are technical terms don't you know it. Laura's birthday was actually a while ago. And she wasn't exactly born so much as cloned. But she was busy doing X-23 things, probably involving violence, and Gabby wasn't able to get her something on the day. And then time passed... and now she's over a month late trying to find something cool enough to make up for it. She even has enough cash to pay for it herself. Even if that money was supposed to be hidden away in a go bag and only used in dire circumstances. Like corporate hit teams chasing after her or Sentinels rising up to hunt every mutant in the country. Basically it's to bribe people to get her out of the country in an emergency. But hey she can totally beat up some bad guys and replace it before something like that happens.... right? "I think most of the swords Laura and Logan have come from Japan. So I thought maybe I should buy something different."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' She nods her head as she looks it over, but she looks to Gabby and motions, "Go ahead and check it. " She smirks. "They think it's real, so it should be good." She grins      The staff is instantly friendly to Gabby now because she is with the rich and powerful Emma. But Emma understands the just-in-case bag.. even she has that being a mutant means you gotta be ready just in case.. also former villains having heros break their stuff is normal, so have backups.      Emma also has a soft spot for younger mutants, so she likes to help them.

:'''{{#var:7430|Gabby (7430)}} has posed:''' Gabby takes the sword. Her posture immediately shifting from petite teenager loitering in a store for rich old people to that of a trained warrior. A sword fighting stance that speaks of lots of intense training. She holds the blade, testing the balance, then carefully runs her nail against the edge. "Balance is excellent. Edge could use some work but I wouldn't expect to buy it fighting sharp.." She nods. Mostly to herself. "It's a pretty cool sword that's for sure. Not big enough to be totally badass. But certainly cool." She glances at the antique store employee. "How much is it?" she wonders. Hand brushing against the bag of cash. Probably they will ask questions about where the money came from. People don't typically buy antiques with untraceable unmarked bills with non-sequential numbers. Ideally old bills that've been in circulation a while. Money that's hardest to trace. "So uh. Are you here to buy anything yourself?"

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost She looks up from watching Gabby before she glances around and cocks her head " No, I felt you here and came to say hello," she says honestly.      She looks about. " I was on my way back to the school to teach my class when I felt your mind." She looks over an old lighter for a moment as if checking it .

:'''{{#var:7430|Gabby (7430)}} has posed:''' "That... doesn't it get kind of annoying?" Gabby wonders, momentarily forgetting the sword and just how expensive the price the staff member has told her, glancing over at Emma and the bodyguards. Who are probably not entirely thrilled about the petite girl waving a sword around next to their boss. "There are millions of people in the city and if you stop to say hi whenever you pass someone you know... How do you ever get anywhere?" A shrug. "See I would just pull out my cellphone and shoot someone a text. Like yo girl how's things? Just sensed your mind while cruising in my limo." She blinks a few times. "Wait you teach class on Saturdays too? Bleh school sucks. Turning up to class. Doing homework. I guess it's less dangerous than being a super hero.. But no fun at all."
}}

16157/Business duties and lunches

2024-04-12T17:10:28Z

PoeWolf: Nadia and Sam meet for the first time

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/03/31
|Location=Bushwick (Mutant Town), Brooklyn
|Synopsis=Nadia and Sam meet for the first time
|Cast of Characters=1258, 7733
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie has just finished overseeing the recent deliveries at the club, and now after locking up, he is out front of the club as he decided where he wants to grab food.

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' Nadia is a GIRL about town. Specifically Mutant Town. And why is she here? A long story involving a mutant outreach program and some really expensive medication they need to supply to local residents. Which would generally be far outside the reach of a charity program. But one thing lead to another and GIRL got involved. And the thing about patented medication that's hard to come by is that if you're a super genius you can make a variation which is chemically & legally distinct. Same effect (actually the side effects are much less troublesome why replicate when you can innovate?) but much much cheaper. Or for the charity in question? Utterly free. They would have paid her but honestly Nadia found it a fun little puzzle to work out. And that's far more important than anything boring like money. Dressed in her GIRL bomber jacket and some jeans she's practically skipping as she heads out the office the charity is based out of. Whistling a jaunty tune. Good deed for the day done!

:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie looks about and as he sees a new person in town he takes a moment to look them over. As he notices the jacket his brow raises a bit and he will take a couple steps towards her "Um miss got a moment?"

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' Not every mutation is visible but Nadia sure doesn't look like a local. For a start most people in any part of New York would just ignore a total stranger and walk on by. But when Sam calls out she stops and glances round. "That really depends on how you believe time works," she says brightly. A hint of an accent although it's hard to place. "If you subscribe to the block theory of time we exist in every moment we'll ever experience at the same time. If not then the only thing that exists is the now. So in a sense we'd only ever have the moment we're in...." A beats pause. She blinks. "That's a yes. Sorry I was thinking about building a time machine earlier today and it's got me in a creative mood. What's up?"

:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie smirks a bit and says "Ah am a more branches of time person myself." He offers and smiles. "Ah saw your jacket, and the Girl logo, was wondering something going on around here?

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' "In order to branch time couldn't be in blocks," Nadia says with a tilt of her head. "Although really in order for the future to be branching it generally means there would have to be parallel dimensions. Probably one for every single decision it's possible to make going right back to the creation of the universe. It's an interesting thought experiment because some of those branches would be so close to ours it'd be impossible for anyone to tell them apart. And in others the very laws of physics might be dramatically different." A beats pause. "Sorry I got a little carried away again...." The petite brunette blinks a few times. "Something going on? Not really! Just charity outreach work. Medical supplies for people with long term health conditions." She gives Sam an appraising look. "Nothing exciting or valuable to anyone but the patients. And they'll be getting delivered to the people who need them right away." Not that she thinks Sam looks like he's planning a break in. But you never know who might be listening in when you're in a neighbourhood where so many people have some sort of power.

:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie ahs and nods a bit and says "Ah might know a few of the folks your talking about help is always a good thing. We have a couple of mutual aquaintances so, wanted to make sure all was ok.

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' "Possibly! Although I wouldn't want to discuss anyone's personal medical situations," Nadia says solemnly. She might love to chat science but it's another thing entirely to chat about specific peoples health stuff without permission. Gosh it'd be terribly rude. Also probably illegal. But really laws are less important than the impact on people. So it's the rudeness that's more of an issue. "Oh yes everything is fine with GIRL. We sadly couldn't find a cure for vampirism which would stop Dracula. Who is, I'm reliably informed, a real person not a fictional character. But we're open to the public and actively recruiting the best and brightest." She beams a smile. "And no need to worry about us building any time machines," she jokes. "It's just a fun intellectual thought experiment involving an FTL spaceship, a black hole, and a slingshot maneuverer to arrive back where you started before you even set off."

:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie smirks a bit and says "Well don't worry even if you don't invent one the way things go for the heroic types, Ah am sure you will have some time travel stories eventually

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' "It's no fun to use someone else's time machine," Nadia says matter-of-factly. "The travelling part is simple. If I wanted to see the distant future I could just... you know. Statis myself and wait it out. Boring, simple, but a reliable way to go forward. Getting back to where you set off is the tricky bit anyway." She puts her hand into her pocket and pulls out... a whole backpack. One that totally should not have been able to fit into a jacket pocket. Clearly she's cheating somehow! "Here's one of my business cards," she says offering Sam a card that proclaims she is Nadia Pym Director of GIRL. "If you ever find you or one of your friends needs super science assistance feel free to let me know. If it's a good cause we'll be happy to help. But for now at least I need to fly. I've got some projects I need to check up on back at the lab. Nice to meet you though!"

:'''{{#var:1258|Samuel Guthrie (1258)}} has posed:''' Samuel Guthrie nods his head a bit and says "And if you ever in the need for a bit of manual labor, or such, tell Angelica to give Sam a call, she will know who ya mean.

:'''{{#var:7733|Nadia Pym (7733)}} has posed:''' Nadia Pym slips the backpack on. Once it's in place insectile wings unfurl and begin fluttering. "I'll keep that in mind!" Generally speaking GIRL has the money to hire local people to do manual labour, but hey you never turn down people willing to work potentially on the cheap. Not when super science lab equipment is so pricey. And with a wave the fluttering wings blur and she takes off. Flying back to GIRL HQ at high speed!
}}

16158/Cousins Catching Up

2024-04-12T17:10:21Z

PoeWolf: Two cousins get some much needed catching done.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/01
|Location=Fortress of Solitude, Marie Bryd Land
|Synopsis=Two cousins get some much needed catching done.
|Cast of Characters=32, 15
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:32|Karen Starr (32)}} has posed:''' Karen sighs softly, lips pursing as she whistles a soft little tune to herself as she flies through the air at a speed that means she can't actually hear the whistling, and at an altitude normally reserved for military spy planes and balloons released by particularly ambitious high school science teachers, she's not worried anyone's going to hear her clumsy rendition of 'happy birthday'. Partly because she'd see any of those spy planes coming, and partly because at such altitude and speed, Karen's not going to be out in public for terribly long as she rockets over the icy plains of the antarctic, idly considering whether or not they're plains or just ice floes. Something to look up during her break at STAR Labs, or ask one of the lab assistants at GIRL as a learning experience. She files it away for later, cutting off her whistling as the Fortress of Solitude comes into view and she rockets to a stop at the massive doorway, cape snapping before she's going through the process of unlocking the door with the appropriate signal, and floating through the doors. And onwards she floats carefully, eyes scanning, her breath escaping in a slow sigh as she just... soaks in the wonder. It might not be the same wonder as Metropolis with its people and hustle and bustle... well, of course it's not, or it wouldn't be very Solitude-y. But it's a home for her in a way. And her family. And that's who she's looking for, trusting Kal to hear her coming, even before she lands to let the heels of her boots click on the crystalline floor as she chimes out, "Cousin! Do you know what day it is?! I can't believe I almost forgot!"

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' Clark is busy, dressed as Superman, working on the crystals. Just moving them about making sure they're working. "Is it your birthday? What do you want for a gift?" Clark asks with a smile. For a brief moment he wonders about all the different things he can get her. For a brief moment his mind matches that of his friends. What do you get the girl that has nearly everything? Clark will turn around and float. "What day is today?" he asks making sure he got that right. Those sky blue eyes focused on her arrival. It's a good thing seeing Karent. It's been far too long. And so, he's waiting for the cousin to join him. A welcomed addition to the family, always. "And how have you been?" Clark asks, afraid he may sound like his mother. That Kent family attitude about family rubbing off.

:'''{{#var:32|Karen Starr (32)}} has posed:''' Karen scowls half-heartedly, or really, tries to scowl half-heartedly in playfulness, but because she's already grinning when Clark gets it in one, she really just looks goofy for a moment and then huffs out a sigh. "Of course you'd remember! I didn't even remember! And who says this isn't my gift? Drop in, visit the menagerie, see my favorite cousin... and also, I can be assured I'm prepared if Lois has some sort of surprise party planned because there's no way she could get an entire party of people down here unnoticed!" She watches him moving the crystals, eyes drifting, darting... just mentally following along and reassuring herself she can. After all, what if /she/ needs to move them around sometime? She laughs softly and sighs out, "Well, it's also April Fool's day, but I feel like we sort of miss out on that particular tradition... which is probably for the best. Superpowered pranks seem like a recipe for disaster." Still, as he turns to face her, Karen floats back up from the floor, arms stretching above her head as her back arches and she hums out, "Oh, I've been alright. Busy with a bunch of quantum mechanics calculations and theories at STAR, I dropped by this other thinktank called GIRL to offer my services as something of a mentor for the scientists of the next generation. Beyond that it's all just rescuing cats from trees... figuratively. I haven't run into any supervillains of late. And you Clark?" One eyebrow perks and she grins, "Maybe us having some quiet time /is/ my birthday gift. From the universe."

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' "I try not to forget," Clark says, plus his phone may have helped. Calendar programs are seriously underrated sometimes. "Who says it is?" Clark counters as he looks at her. "Besides, maybe I want to get you something, but didn't have time to ask you," it is true they didn't have time to connect beforehand. Karen's darting out of the way which is fine, "I promise Lois is not here and that's not April fools. Lois may still have something planned, if she has, rest assured she kept me in the dark," and Lois would do that to keep it a surprise. "I've heard of good things about GIRL." A nod comes from him, "You didn't hear about Blackgate. Massive breakout. League is occupied with it for now." Aka people like Batman are combing for clues that somehow went amiss. Plus there is the matter of who they sprung. "So it's not -that- quiet." To Clark the quiet means preparation.

:'''{{#var:32|Karen Starr (32)}} has posed:''' Karen laughs softly and sighs out, "Honestly? I can't think of what I would even want... I mean, I've got so many free credits for audibooks I haven't used yet... I certainly don't need a Power Copter or something..." She tilts her head and murmurs softly, "Text me the day before Lois's birthday as a reminder so I don't forget her birthday like I do my own? That'd be a nice gesture." Eyebrows perk high and she chimes out, "Well, if there are any leads that need someone bullet proof to tag along, let them know I'm willing to help out. I know I'm not the best detective, but I'm pretty decent at being a distraction." Eyes narrow playfully, because Karen surely knows she's more than /decent/ at being a distraction. Sure, sometimes that means throwing a bus at a powerhouse of a villain, but... she's also always happy to just get in the way of bullets. Her head tilts and her lips press in a thin line, "So, other than the breakout, how are you doing, cousin? Really doing?" Her lips press into an even more severe line. She's not saying that her family has a bad habit of trying to handle things themselves but... well, she knows she does it sometimes. And she figures, being /the/ Superman, her cousin needs to let a load off time to time too. And she'll be there for him.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' "Alright, but that's not a gift. That's a courtesy," Clark looks at her firmly. He's not going to budge on that one. And he quickly rules out the idea of any book for a gift. "Are you sure? Kryponite is involved," Clark is making sure Power Girl has an understanding of the risk. "They have a Kryptonian countermeasure. Maybe more than one," he says laying out the pieces of the puzzle he understands. "Not saying you're not good, or willing, just making sure you -know- the dangers." Then the look focuses and turns even. A thin line. "I'm trying. Things are good, but I worry I'm not doing enough," Clark will come clean with that one. Those sky blue eyes looking back to Karen. "I promise you aside from that, I'm fine." And a moment later his gaze rests on her. A similar even nature, "Yourself?" Again, he's expecting similar honesty.

:'''{{#var:32|Karen Starr (32)}} has posed:''' Karen lifts one eyebrow. "So are guns. And probably magic. And all the other things that other league members are vulnerable to. Just because I can stand up to things that would flatten Flash if he wasn't fast enough to get out of the way doesn't mean I shouldn't stand up to things that are as risky to me as that bus is to him!" She sighs out and suddenly she's closer, arms around his shoulders, leaning in against her cousin and giving a squeeze, "Of course you're worried you're not doing enough. You always worry you're not doing enough..." She flashes a little grin and narrows her eyes, "That's why you've got the rest of us around. So we can remind you you're your own worst critic. Also so you don't have to eat all of Lois's holiday meals all by yourself... now /that/ is an act of heroism... she can cook!" And then she heaves out a sigh like she knew that question was coming, "I'm... okay. It's still a balancing act. trying to accept that I'm me and that's good enough even if I'm... you know... a clone." She frowns ever so slightly, "Honestly, if anything I think I need to get out and be more /Karen/ than Power Girl. Like, socialize some more." She pauses for a long moment and then grins, "But this little visit totally counts even though we couldn't be further from other people. It's socializing with you, so it's totally valid. And cheering you up, as is... my sacred birthday duty?" Her shoulders shrug helplessly as she tries to come up with a very good excuse for why this was her first thought of what to do on her birthday.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' A nod of confidence goes to Karen. It's just Clark's protective side showing. Not a lack of faith in her. "Lois is a lovely cook. Well, getting there. It's almost scary," he says because to him eating good food is not that all heroic. Karen has a lot of good points about Clark being his own worst critic. That's very true. He won't deny that. Then Karen gets quiet talks about needing to be Karen more. And she's right about the visit. However, Clark asks a simple question, "What is Karen Starr like?" he asks and turns to her. A simple question he knows may touch a nerve. However, he's going to just be quiet for a moment. "When I used to ask 'Who is Clark Kent' that's when I just explored. Went to good restaurants. Went to bad ones. Catch a couple of sports games. It reminded me of why I'm Superman and made me closer to people. I started to gain likes and interests. I think Karen Starr should do the same," he points out to his cousin. Just letting her understand it's not instantly that she knows who Karen is. It's going to take time. "Some Eastern philosophers believe a soul isn't something people are born with. It's something earned. While they talk about trials and tribulations, we've been through those. Our human 'souls'," and yes he does air quotes. "They come from the little things."

:'''{{#var:32|Karen Starr (32)}} has posed:''' Karen's eyes roll and she sighs out, "Judging by as of late? A workaholic who needs to get her work-life balance in order as much as I've got my... Karen/Power Girl life in balance. Of course that means like... half Power Girl, and then like a quarter work, and a quarter socializing... I've done a bit. Diana was helpful for that, but we haven't run into each other in awhile." She glances sidelong and grins lopsidedly, "The last sports game I went to got attacked by some kind of interdimensional monsters... I mean, it /was/ more fun than the hockey game had been but... not exactly an entertainment to repeat." She draws a slow breath and narrows her eyes, "Isn't that bit about souls being earned from an episode of The Simpsons? Is Jimmy Olsen my Millhouse?" That's right... Karen knows pop culture! Look out, world! And then she's breaking down into a genuine peal of giggling at the air quotes and nods her head, "Okay okay, that... that actually makes more sense. See? Look at that. Self-assurance. The best birthday gift my cousin could give me."
}}

16161/One Night at the Museum

2024-04-12T17:10:12Z

PoeWolf: Arthur tries to stop Satana. Both try to stop the real villain.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/02
|Location=American Museum Nat. His.
|Synopsis=Arthur tries to stop Satana. Both try to stop the real villain.
|Cast of Characters=1127, 10464
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:'''     Living after midnight     Rocking to the dawn     Loving till the morning     Then I'm gone, I'm gone The voice echoes through the halls of the museum shortly after, well, midnight. A thrilling contralto that slithers into the ears and wraps itself around the amygdala, purring, while singing that song. The owner of the voice comes into view in the dinosaur hall, doing a little shuffle as she continues that concert-pleaser from Judas Priest, hips gyrating, feet doing fancy footwork, as the temptress, clad in crimson leather so tight it might as well be within her skin. It would almost be charming were it not for the half dozen guards littering the foyer of the museum, knocked out for *daring* to suggest that perhaps she was not meant to be inside the museum at night. Still shuffling and dancing, the crimson-clad culprit starts looking at the displays with a critical eyes, occasionally holding up a gem to her amber eye, peering at displays through it. Though the body still gyrates and writhes to the music coming from her mouth.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur, in his guise as Crimson Wolf, was just making his way along. The museum roof was a stop on his way as he trained a bit on his just... going around the city. He was new. He hadn't even met other heroes yet! But that there was something going on in the museum brought him to go take a look. It being after midnight didn't matter much to him. He had online courses, and those were just... yeah. Easy. And recorded. He could do them any time nearly during the day. After midnight was prime time for him to get some much needed practice and exercise in with his abilities. But, he didn't expect to stumble on to a museum robbery of all things. That has him frowning a bit behind his ceramic mask. So he does the natural thing of slipping in the skylight. And somehow just... gliding down. His landing is still with the slight click of his boots as he looks at the guards, then walks towards where he hears the singing. Overall, he's hoping it was just some ray or something that knocked the guards out. Who knew what did it? And he did not have time to check on them to make sure they were alive or the like other than a quick glance.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' They're breathing. There's no sight nor smell of blood. And the one guard whose face is turned Arthur's way has a very, very, very strange smile on his face. Like he's having a really ... ah ... unsavoury dream. As he gets closer to the music, the red-clad minx is still dancing from display to display, not even trying to hide herself nor what she's doing, despite the undoubtedly dozens of cameras pointing into this room alone. There's also no mask; no, Taylor Swift is definitely clad in tight red leather, singing ancient metal songs, and inspecting the dinosaur displays. Wait. Taylor Swift? It's definitely not a mask, but ... it's Taylor Swift. Except ... she's in Europe doing a benefit concert with Dazzler. What? The voice stops briefly only to say, "You know, most people would see six unconscious guards and decide discretion is the better part of valour. Toddle off now." She's not even looking at Arthur and already dissing him. She goes back to her singing, only looking Arthur's way with an impish, but definitively malicious, grin, when she sings these words     The air's electric, sparking power, loaded, loaded     I'm getting hotter by the hour, loaded, loaded There may be a warning in there somewhere.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur has to blink a few times. Then it clicks. "A shapeshifter." He says simply. "And sorry, but I believe whatever you are here for would be best left here." He says. The ceramic mask is at least hiding most of his face. His eyes are the only real visible part as he watches her, following at a walk for the moment. The eyes on the guard has him wary. He knows there is more at work there. A lot more.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "What you believe and what is," Satana says with a dry chuckle, "are two different things." She turns back to her work, not seeming concerned by her opponent. "The fools who run this place don't even know what they have." She stops her little shuffle-dance in front of what looks like a miniature T-Rex. A thicc one. The sign in front of it, should Arthur be curious, reads "Afrovenator". "And here we go!" the woman says enthusiastically. "If you're not going to be running away in terror, could you at least make yourself useful and help me get over this plexiglass wall?" The display is separated from public space by the aforementioned wall approximately 2.5m high. "I won't be a moment. I'll grab the tooth, put in its replacement, and be out of here before the tiresome police officers arrive and make things get messy."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur hums, looking thoughtful, even rubbing his chin. "How about no?" He shrugs as he continues to walk forward, looking at her. "Now that I know what you are after, I am willing to bet from the look on the guards, that you are using something other than just shapeshifting?" She's a talker, so he'll keep her talking. Yep.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana shrugs and sighs. "Pity. I would have loved feeling those strong hands on me; that whiplike body against me. Oh well, I was intending to do this all by myself anyway." She pauses then and looks a little bewildered. "But hold on, you're still not fleeing in terror. Were you dropped on your head as a child?" Looking down at herself she snaps her fingers. "Oh, now I get it! I forgot to put on the fearsome visage!" And as she says this, the crimson leather at her back bulges and bursts as a huge pair of bat-like wings unfurl behind her. At about the same time as curling ram's horns escape her temples, tearing through flesh to cover her ears like a pair of earmuffs. And then there's the eyes. The amber eyes that flood with black until they're like onyx, albeit onyx where the bright red flames of Hell burn where her pupils should be. "This is the time you leave, mortal," she says, her voice doubling with another, deeper, more animalistic voice nearly a full octave lower, for maximum discordant disconcerting effect. "When I gather my dragon's tooth I will be on my way. Whether you are injured or not when I do is entirely on your choices now."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur blinks at that one. Just blinks. Then he reaches to his coat and draws out a sword. A japanese looking one, but definitely far from ordinary. At least if Satana can sense it. He moves to hold it ready. "Not the first of your kind I have faced. Just what do you want with a tooth, anyways?" He asks.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' When the sword comes out, the demonic visage flicks straight at it as if Satana somehow knows there's something about it that should concern her. "I see..." she says, warily stepping back and to one side. "You're not the usual tawdry costumed buffoon." Her hands work in strange gestures as she talks before she thrusts them ahead of herself and spreads them wide. A thin curtain of what looks like shimmering, barely-contained flame interposes itself between the pair, wrapping to cover Satana's flanks as well as front. "But neither am I," she continues, with a triumphant sneer, "the usual tawdry costumed thief." Her voice goes reasonable, losing the bestial component, returning to that oh-so-intrusively sensual contralto. "But darling," she continues, in a friendlier mien, "I'm not a fighter. I'm a lover. I just need that dragon's tooth for a project I'm working on." She pulls something from ... actually it's not clear where she's pulled it form given that it's a good six-inch long pointed tooth and her costume doesn't leave any room for IMAGINATION, not to mention actual physical goods. "As you can see I'll be replacing it. They don't know what they have and when I replace this ... assuming you don't do anything rash and make a mess ... they won't know anything has changed. So please, just let me finish my work and ..." A coy, inviting smile creeps over her face. "... I have ways of rewarding people who please me. I'm accounted very good at them."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur looks at the flames, then at her. He seems to hesitate. As if unsure for a moment or two. "Just what is this project for exactly?" He asks. Crouching a little, he actually looks like he might be getting ready to move as he steps a bit closer, looking at her through the flames. "And so far, the answer is no. Besides, I would rather they know something happened in case I can not stop you." He says in reply. A small tilt of his head and he glances at a display, "Speaking of which." He brings his sword back, aiming at a display case it looks like. "If you are not wanting them to know you are here, I can always just break something and throw it at you. I am sure they would love to see you on the cameras." He notes.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana's voice clouds with peevishness. Not quite anger. (This is likely a good thing.) "Do you know, little mortal," she asks haughtily, what I think of technology?" Without waiting for an answer--apparently she's being rhetorical in her questions--she continues, "It's degenerate ritual magic; most of my kind despise it. I, on the other hand, quite enjoy it. It's entertaining to work with; an intriguing set of tight constraints requiring creativity to mold to my will." Another few hand gestures and the various displays used during visiting hours light up. Only briefly do they display the contents of their usual blandly-delivered information before an odd red-and-black static takes them over and starts displaying ... Arthur. And Satana. Only in one display Arthur is a woman in a kimono and Satana is a circus ringmaster. In another display, from another angle, Arthur is himself, but Satana is Betty Boop, the cartoon character. In yet another Arthur is a talking dog while Satana is a talking llama. And so on. The angles of the displays seem to match the angles of cameras in the room. "As a result I'm quite adept at manipulating it. My home defence system is a Wurlitzer, for example." Satana cocks her head and watch's Arthur's reaction. As does the llama in one picture, Betty Boop in another, a circus ringmaster in the third, and so on. "Now, before we continue with this pointless charade--and please, I have no desire to destroy these displays, but I will if I have to defend myself which would be rather a shame given how minimal my impact was supposed to be--perhaps some introductions are in order. I am Satana Hellstrom. The Daughter of Satan." She pauses for dramatic effect. "Literally. Not figuratively. And you are?"

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur tilts his head a little. His head turns this way and that to look at the displays. That somehow one has him looking like a woman, especially as he has a ceramic mask on even in that picture has him staring a bit. "Nice trick." Then her introduction has him looking over, "Huh. Daughter of Satan? Like the biblical one? Never followed that, but I understand some of the implication." He sighs, "As far as I know, the last two of your kind that tried to kill me called me the Crimson Komainu. I suppose Crimson Wolf will work since we are not in Japan." The sword is moved behind him, and a trail of light comes out of it as he does what looks more like a fancy sword flourish. A bright circle emerges next, covering the apparently young man as he turns from just some guy in a trenchcoat and ceramic mask to what looks like some sort of cross between a samurai and a knight in appearance. The helmet just invokes those fancy foo-dog statues from Japan that guard temples as he settles back into what looks like a traditional kendo stance. "Do you want to see how the first one ended up?" He asks.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Crimson Wolf." Satana looks down at herself and the clothing she's decided to manifest and then back up at Arthur. "I approve of that name." As if he needed her approval. "And I'm sure you've encountered an imp or even a fiend before and did well. But darling Mr. Wolf, I am a full-on Hell Lord. I'm a completely different breed from those. Pit fiends blanch in my presence and ask how they might serve me." She tilts her head, mischief in her eyes. "Shall I summon a horde to illustrate this? You wouldn't enjoy it, I promise." Her mouth quirks a bit as if she's stifling something. "There's no reason, however, for us to be at odds. I just want a tooth the fools who run this place misidentified and put in the wrong place. I will be replacing it so they won't even know there's something to miss." She waves the tooth she produced earlier by way of illustration. "When I'm done, I will be on my way; I'm not doing this for tedious things like 'money' after all." Again she produces something. Again it's really unclear where it's all coming from given this is a very large roll of $100 bills. "I'm not short of that. Ever. Being a Hell Lord pays well, you see." She looks Arthur up and down curiously. "Why do you even care? This cannot possibly impact you materially. It doesn't impact the people here materially either given how they don't even know what they have. Why are you so intent on a battle? Are you so addicted to violence and causing pain? If you are, why don't I just fetch my tooth, and then you and I can discuss this like adults elsewhere. I have a playroom that will let you unleash your aggression in a fun way. Ropes. Chains. Leashes. Whips. Even knives if you're so inclined." The demonic form vanishes as Satana returns to the form she was in when Arthur first saw her ... only with a lot more skin showing as panels of the leather catsuit vanish. "I'm quite open to all forms of passion..." she purrs suggestively.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' The wolf helmet gives a sigh, "It seems to be the only language that is understood by those like you." "Why do you want a tooth of a dragon?" He asks. He seems really hestitating to attack a Taylor Swift lookalike. Especially with all that skin showing now. "Also, definitely not my thing there. Fun as it probably could be, I would rather decline. Not to mention you will probably kill me later for some stupid reason or another." "Seriously, we could keep this going or you could wait for the cops and a certain mystic or two I know of that I sent out a message to before entering here. I'm willing to bet they are just trying to figure out the best way to come over or get dressed or something else stupid." He says. And he just hopes that being in a full suit of armor means she can't tell he's bluffing on that one.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana sighs, clearly and visibly unwilling to engage in conflict. Perhaps she *is* more the lover than the fighter as she claims. Her body is definitely built more for the former... "If, darling, I tell you what it's for, will you leave me be, or perhaps even assist me?" she asks. She pauses a moment. "I'm taking it away from Mephisto," she says, then, with a frown on her face as she pronounces that name. "A rival Hell Lord who has the subtlety of a ..." Words seem to fail her as she seeks an appropriate simile. "... completely unsubtle thing," she finishes lamely. "I am very comfortable here in the mortal plane, and every time that ham-fisted ... clown! ..." There's a certain strangling rage in her voice and face when she refers to the aforementioned Mephisto. "... starts plotting things for this plane, it makes my stay here less comfortable because mortals, who see no contradiction between two humans not liking each other and interfering with each other can't seem to fathom that I AM NOT HIS TO COMMAND." Someone is peeved. "So..." She settles herself down, with the beast lurking within the Taylor Swift form falling back. "...this dragon tooth is going to be used by his cultists to bring him and his army to New York City." Slow clapping sounds from behind Arthur and to the right. "The Lady Satana," an elderly masculine voice says, "has the right of it. My Lord Mephisto will be summoned. And unlike the aspersions she has cast upon me, I know full well what I have stored in that skeleton." The man steps into the glow of the displays still showing the bizarrely altered images from before. "I am Doctor Fulswaith, curator of this wing of the museum." Glowing energies start forming, crackling, around the hands of the man. "And I'm afraid I can't allow either of you to interfere with My Lord Mephisto's plans." The energy is unleashed, one ball flying toward Satana, one toward Arthur.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' "Well, maybe." He replies to her query. The flat out truth has him pausing. And then the third voice has him turning. And that ball is met with sword. That seems to absorb a little bit of it before he moves to brush it aside. "So no need to fight her, just you? Thank you." Arthur says towards the Doctor. And he moves to advance on the man, at a steady walk, his sword held up before him. He calls back towards Satana, "You know, if you can shapeshift, why not just fly over the glass? Oh, and please dispose of that tooth instead of using it." He turns his attention back to the Doctor Fulswaith. "As for you, I hope you have more tricks than just flinging whatever that was."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Santana scoffs as the ball comes toward her, splashing against her screen with barely a noticeable impact. She watches with amusement as Fulswaith's ball is easily deflected by Arthur's sword. "Oh, that's easy, my darling wolf," she says to his question. "I was planning to, but a nice strapping man like you comes along? I wanted to be lifted and touched." She winks his way (likely not seen given that he's otherwise engaged) and with a few hand gestures raises into the air and easily clears the plexiglass barrier, floating across to the skeleton's mouth. "NO!" Fulswaith shouts, fury in his voice. "I WILL NOT LET YOU..." Words that sound very ... ancient language-y ... start flowing from his lips as Satana starts pulling at one of the many teeth of the fossilized skeleton. The skeleton that now starts to move, glowing a pale, baleful blue, its teeth barely missing Satana's arm as she yanks it back. "Curses!" she mutters, adding a few (likely very choice) words under her breath. "Would you mind terribly much keeping him busy so I can avoid being hurt by this thing?" The thing whose sudden, blindingly quick motion sends Satana sailing through the air to land face-first and upside-down against the faux rock wall of the display, painted and flocked styrofoam breaking under the impact.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' "Not a problem. If this is anything like fantasy... well..." Arthur shows that he is not just a swordsman as he leaps forward suddenly, and instead tries to flat out punch the cultist Doctor in the face. Like completely. And he probably cleared at least twice what a normal human should have with that forward jump, too. "Hope that disrupted the spell, if not this will get messy!" He says, as he looks to make sure the doctor is out. Literally.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' The doctor is an elderly man with a few spell tricks up his sleeve. Arthur is a trained combatant in a suite of armour. The doctor is definitively out. And probably concussed. The *spell*, on the other hand, is not out. And while Satana is climbing to her feet after falling to the floor from her rather embarrassing pratfly, the Afrovenator skeleton makes a lunge for her, forcing her to dive to one side as its speed precludes her casting any magic; simply lacking time. "Now would be a very helpful time!" she calls out as she scrambles to her feet, trying to run from the skeleton in a too-small enclosure. "Check his pockets. He must have a fetish keeping it going!"

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur starts to check the pockets quickly, looking as quickly as he can. And trying to find something. "Doing that. Keys, wallet... come on. What would this thing look like?" He yells over. Then deciding on something else, he leaps over the plexiglass and goes for jumping on the skeleton himself and trying to slice into it's neck. It's basically an animated skeleton, so he tries to cut into it and hope his sword will do a lot of the work. It worked against demons, after all, and it deflected whatever that spell was, so cutting through whatever is animating the skeleton? Should be easy, right!

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' The skeleton is stone. Hard, compressed stone. It just happens to be in the shape of bones. So while the sword does manage to do something unclear to the field keeping the skeleton alive, given the faltering of the blue aura where the sword was, it's not enough to stop the skeleton from moving with amazing alacrity. It does, however, give Satana the time she needs to cast a spell as the skeleton switches targets, its horrific jaws snapping at Arthur, the razor sharp points trying their best to tear into his flesh and rend him limb from limb. Satana gets to her feet and with a triumphant noise, throws her hand in the direction of the unconscious curator, gestures, and yanks out what looks like a chess piece, tearing out of the professor's pocket and flying in a direct line to her outstretched hand... ...only to get embedded into the plexiglass separating the pair from the rest of the displays. A few very choice words escape Satana's lips. "Keep it occupied, I have to get over the barrier again to cancel this!"

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' The armored knight reaches out to grab a leg and pulls himself out of the way of the jaws of death just barely. "Easy for you to say!" Arthur calls back towards her. Then Arthur realizes where he is, and turns to swing hard at the thing's knee. And he channels qi into it to boot. Perhaps taking out it's footing will work better as he moves to get away afterwards. And hopefully he didn't shatter a knee there.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Yes, it is," Satana says with more than a hint of dark humour. Again she opens her arms wide and rises into the air, to come down on the other side of the barrier. With a quick wrench of the piece she yanks it from the plexiglass, inspecting it briefly before eldritch words start to flow from her mouth. Meanwhile, inside the enclosure, the knee strike accomplishes its aim, causing the skeleton to fall over sideways. Its mouth snaps shut beside Arthur instead of over him, sparing him being swallowed whole by ... well ... bones. Or, more alarmingly, cut in half while being so swallowed by sharp teeth. "OK," Satana says, "I think I have this." She continues the eldritch words, enveloping the chess piece in a red haze, a haze that starts to form around the skeleton too. "Keep it busy. It will stop soon."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur shrugs, then leaps upwards to the top of the enclosure away from where Satana is. Balancing carefully on a corner, he taps the enclosure a few times with his sword to get it's attention. "How soon is soon?" He asks as he watches the skeleton, hoping to keep it's attention at least. Honestly, he has no idea how sturdy the plexiglass is. He's just up there to try to keep the thing on him rather than disrupt whatever Satana is doing. For some reason, he lets the armor disappear in a brief white glow back to wherever it is stored, not to mention his sword goes back to the first form it had. Then he decides to hop down to the floor instead of staying a big target.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "When you stop entertaining me with your prattle," Satana says with a glower, "I'll finish it. While I'm still amused, you'll dance with it." She's probably joking. Probably. Maybe. Hopefully. The creature skitters to its feet again, looking around and silently bellowing (which is probably the eeriest part of the fight: how silent it largely is!) spotting Arthur's motion and lunging his way. "These creatures had very bad eyesight except for motion. Perhaps you should have stood still." Timely advice from the Demon Queen. More eldritch words pour out of her mouth and the skeleton now glows a fiery red. Literally fiery, it seems, given that some of the styrofoam fittings are now melting in its presence. A presence that's rapidly closing in on Arthur.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur looks at the melting styrofoam and sighs, "I can see that." He backs away from the plexiglass, scanning around where he is before leaping backwards a good distance as he slides the sword he has back into a scabbard in his coat. Moving carefully, he makes sure he has a clear path as he keeps moving a little to make sure the skeleton stays focused on him with an occasional wave. He is just waiting for the plexiglass to fail and for the thing to come his way as he crouches a little. "At least it seems to only have 'eat someone' on it's mind." He says.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' And with a cry of triumph, Satana seems to shatter whatever hold the chess piece had on the dinosaur skeleton. She throws it to the ground hard, then stomps on it with force that cracks the tile beneath. The piece is shattered into a thousand pieces which... ... uh ... this is probably not what Arthur wanted. The dinosaur skeleton also shatters into a thousand pieces. Thankfully the red glow fades rapidly and the heat is gone, so minimal extra damage is done to the enclosure (and there's no fire), but there is now a disassembled fossilized skeleton all over the floor. "That did it!" Satana says, again going over the wall to join Arthur. Immediately she steps up to the cranial part and pulls out a tooth, replacing it with the one she'd bandied about earlier. "I trust there's no objection to my keeping this little bauble this time?" she asks Arthur with more than a little sarcastic acid in her voice.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' A shrug is given from Arthur. "I suppose not. If you have some sort of incriminating evidence that can be planted on the doctor there, I would not be opposed to that as well. At least something to get him locked away so we do not have to deal with it again?" He shakes his head, turning to go the same way he came in. Namely the skylight. "This has been one strange night. Wonder if Dresden can fill me in on this one." He says to himself more than anything.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Oh, tell Harry I said hi!" Satana says with a smile. "And tell him my invitation is still open, like my legs will be if he takes me up on it." She winks at Arthur. "Just tell him Satana says 'hi'. See how long it takes him to flinch and maybe even run away." She glances over at the curator and narrows her eyes. "Don't need to incriminate him. His soul is forfeit for his sins. I will claim it now." The eyes wander over Arthur's way. "You might want to leave for this. Mortals find the process ... disturbing."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' A frown might be given towards Satana. "Um... fine... I guess..." He looks uneasy at that one. "Wouldn't it be easier to just plant evidence than do the messy part?" He asks, then sighs. "Never mind... I forgot. Demoness." Turning, he decides the skylight is not the best way but instead goes for a back door. And an emergency exit that he purposefully trips the alarm on before walking out into the night.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' It's probably fortunate that Arthur lacks Astral awareness, because the scream of tortured hopelessness of a soul being consumed, its remnants being excreted practically straight into Hell, is one that, while being music to Satana's ears, is a horror to those who do not share her proclivities toward punishing sinners. The press will have a field day as leaked details later come out about the museum attack that broke apart an assembled fossil skeleton, burned some of the scenery, damaged an enclosure, and left six unconscious guards and the desiccated corpse of a curator in its wake. Satana? She just prepares the dragon tooth for some of her own machinations. Ones that will stymy Mephisto, her father, all while doing what she loves doing best: sowing playful chaos.
}}

16162/ChooChoo!

2024-04-12T17:10:05Z

PoeWolf: Alexander gets his birthday present! Slow Train through Norway!

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/02
|Location=Bergen, Norway
|Synopsis=Alexander gets his birthday present! Slow Train through Norway!
|Cast of Characters=93, 9664
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' The trip overseas had been quick though not the easiest of passages since Natasha had chosen to take the Quinjet into the thin air at the edge of space to reduce resistance and thus speed up the flight. Why? Because they could? And it was fun! There were not a lot of people in the world who could say they had visited there. Then the rollercoaster ride of returning to the normal atmosphere and finally landing at a government run airtstrip. From there, they had a car waiting to take them to their lovely hotel in Bergen. Probably that ride took as long as the flight over to be honest. But in the end, they had gotten settled into the Floating House Bergen, a houseboat that could sleep up to 14 but they had all to themselves. Likely, he thought the trip and the beauty of the houseboat tehy were staying was his birthday present. That was only the start. The next morning, it was time to head to the train station. Bags were packed, though only enough for two days since they would be returning here. Just in case. And they headed out to the waiting car for the drive over. It was only once they were in the car that Natasha handed over Alexander's ticket. It was for a train ride from Bergen to Oslo. A cabin in fact, front facing, at the front of the train under the area used by the conductor. It would give them a view equal to if they were running the train, but in far more comfort. "Happy Birthday, baby. I did some research and, while it's not the same train itself, this is the same trip that the first SlowTV took. From Bergen to Oslo. We have four others lined up through the week as well."

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "Hahaha, oh my god." The young man's voice was rich with a warmth that was rare in his voice, or rather rare when he was out in public. She had heard it enough, often enough, but now those pale hazel eyes twinkled with amusemment as he stood there at the entryway to that cabin, one hand on the strap of his backpack, the other on the handle of the door.     Shaking his head he smiles. The houseboat had been lovely, and he had watched a few trips down the river on that aforementioned SlowTV. Yet he hadn't suspected this particular 'theme' to his birthday celebration. The train though, and her revelation, it did catch him off balance. She could tell by that laugh.     Stepping into the room he slipped an arm around her waist and touched a small kiss to her cheek in passing, though his footsteps carried him toward that viewport ahead. He laughed and shook his head again, looking back at her.     "You are so... thoughtful." His lip curls, "And a little goofy. But thoughtful mainly."

:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' "Thoughtful? I think you are mispronouncing 'you are the best girlfriend ever in the history of the world' or maybe 'no other wife on the planet is as amazing as you'." There was no hiding her delight. Natasha had tried to think of something outside the box that he might enjoy. And he loved that silly show. She even found herself watching it sometimes now thanks to him. Though, in her mind, it was more because she was trying to understand his fascination. It couldn't be that she liked it. Perish the thought. Natasha had a slightly goofy grin on her face though. "You really like it? I mean is it too goofy?" And that grin faded a little as she wondered if she'd done too much. Or not enough. Because of course she would have doubts since this was very out-of-the-box thinking for his birthday.

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "No it's great." He drops his backpack gently to the side, half-kneeling a little to the side as if afraid of breaking the fabric of reality. Then he turns and steps back toward her, slipping an arm around her again to turn and look out the window ahead with her at his side. "I've... never had such a good gift, or someone who gave so much thought." Then his lip curls as he squeezes her hip gently.     "I mean, the sushi one was great. But... yeah." He bites his lower lip looking still out the window distantly. Then he exhales slightly and murmurs, "You really are the best... paramour. Wife. Girlfriend. Significant Other."     Then he laughs a little, "Though I feel like such a dork since this is like... a thing I'm into. Not exactly like... romantic or admirable. Alex likes a tv show, what a nerd."

:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' She felt better when he wrapped his arm around her but then led him over to the comfy seats set up where people could just sit and stare out that front window. Not that it was showing anything impressive yet as they weren't in motion. Just he area around the train station and the tracks ahead that would lead them off on their adventure. "Actually, it's not nerdy. I mean, sure, it might be. But it's more than that. If people like a star, they want to see them. If people like a music group, they try to go see them in concert. How is this any different? You like watching the view out of the train. Here we are doing just that. And I get to spend hours alone with you which is the best gift for myself. And...maybe...I like it a little bit too." Then she brought up a hand. "You repeat that, I'll say you are lying." Then a grin. "Sushi will wait until we are home. Unless you want to fly over to Japan at the end of the trip." They did have a Quinjet and a reckless disregard of authority, after all. She did purse her lips slightly. "We might as well use wife. I mean in most places that have common law, we'd qualify by this point."

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "If we start doing that..." Alexander moed those few steps with her, sweeping down to settle onto the seat. Outisde the window the station was active with passengers coming and going as well as luggage handlers transferring baggage into the cargo compartments.     "You're going to get some grief from your peoples." Which peoples he was meaning she likely knew, considering the main person to hassle her about her relationship was Tony. Likely he imagined that all of the Avengers gave her grief on some level. But Tony was the most... obvious about it.     "Though there's part of me that wants to for..." His lip curls as he squeezes her hand a little, "Purely selfish reasons. So people know? I guess? Is that strange? I want to take pride in it. But is that conducive for our lifestyle. I mean... we work for an intelligence agency."

:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' Natasha settled in with him, taking a moment to kick off her shoes so the she could tuck her feet up on the seat beside her, to the opposite side from him which would allow her to lean closer to him when she wanted to. Optimal snuggling position but allowed for polite conversation as well without the snuggle. "Valid point. Would kind of mess up the mystique thing about me that seems to be all over the place. I'd become a normal person. Sort of. You get what I mean I think. "It isn't like people that work for SHIELD never get married or have partners in their lives. It's actually pretty normal. So it's more do you want that hassle of it being public? I know that a few already are aware, your friends obviously that we've shared time with. And there are whispers we are dating that I know are all over the Triskelion. But people are too scared to ask me and I don't know if they ask you," she admitted.

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "There've been a few people who have asked and I've played it close to the vest." A slight smile eases into place as he rests an arm around her shoulders, looking toward the window, his pale eyes distanced as if they were already traveling along the rails. "I usually say something along the lines about how there might be a small chance you might be interested in me, but I know that if I started talking about it would make it less likely to happen. Which usually gets people to back off." A nod is given then he adds, "Of both genders, so it's a good answer."     He chews on his lower lip as he looks to her sidelong, "There's also the thing if we decided to start down that path of like, it being out there." He rubs the back of his neck and considers...     "Well then there's part of me that if it becomes public, I sorta would want a... ceremony. Maybe?" He scrunches up one eye. "Not entirely sure why, but feels like that would be a... landmark we pass together."

:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' They'd already made vows to one another. Not a ceremony. But a private thing between them, which had felt earth shattering at the time in its sincerity. They both had no doubts they were together and would always. That was never a question. But taking that actual step to the legal process of becoming married? It felt strange to even consider. It wasn't something either of them really needed but for them to become publically husband and wife, she could see the appeal. To have that moment together standing before all their friends and...well, perhaps not family. Outside his father. She wasn't sure she'd trust the rest of the Olympians to play nice. It was strange that the God of War was the one she did trust to behave in that circumstance. "Something to perhaps talk through, think about. I would have no problem with officially being your wife. Though, admittedly, the whole marriage thing didn't work out so well the last time." That whole husband becoming the enemy and his ultimate fate at her hands. "So the concept of officially being married has that odd taint to it. Yet, I know that we would last. Ceremony or no. So it's really more about do we want to step into the light that way."

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "Maybe..." Alexander entwines his fingers with hers and scrunches up one eye as he looks at her sidelong, "Something we should consider later, maybe at a different phase of our careers?" Then his smile shifts slightly, "Well really, your career. Mine is not quite as monumental. As it were." Since she had quite the history in the Intelligence Community.     He chews on the inside of his cheek, giving it some good weight of thought as he looks back toward the window. "Or down the line we don't know what might come about, or might occur. Something might push us into the light. And then that's when we do it. After the dust settles."     He leans his shoulder against hers, brow furrowing slightly as he considers. "We did talk about what life might be like after SHIELD, though it's hard to imagine what form something like that would take."     His eyebrows rise then, "Though I understand how that might be a bit displeasing to consider, after your time past." With her former husband.

:'''{{#var:93|Natasha Romanoff (93)}} has posed:''' "Displeasing doesn't really fit. It's more just that was more like many marriages go. It failed." Monumentally in her case. "But that doesn't define marriage. And it certainly doesn't define us. We are completely different. "I've never felt about anyone the way I do about you," Natasha said softly, squeezing his hand and smiling up at him. "I would be thrilled and proud to be your wife. When the time is right. Not rushing things. Not pushing. We'll know when we know." Though he did mention one thing that made her purse her lips slightly. "I still have no idea what I'd want to do after SHIELD. I've been in espionage for longer than most people's lifespans." A sobering thought. "It's not like I'd just stop and become a pre-school teacher or something."

:'''{{#var:9664|Phobos (9664)}} has posed:'''     "I imagine there's a career in security consulting." Alexander says as he smiles sideways at her, then he nods. "Really though, when I sit back and think about these things... I'm comfortable how things are. The thing that matters most is we know, how we feel and all." A hand lifts to rub at the back of his neck as he considers, "The rest of the world doesn't matter."     Which at its core is their shared outlook when it comes to each other. There are few things that would get between them. Then he leans in and touches a small kiss to the corner of her mouth, "But when you do something this nice, I do get this small vibe in my heart to sort of sit somewhere high and crow to the world how awesome my woman is." As he says those last few words his tone deepens a bit, as if affecting a hint of a growly accent. And as he says that last word he leans in and this time the kiss is not quite so fleeting.
}}

16163/Catching up with Bat-Sibling

2024-04-12T12:33:35Z

PoeWolf: Tim and Babs catch up

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/02
|Location=Orchestra, Monarch Theatre
|Synopsis=Tim and Babs catch up
|Cast of Characters=58, 54
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' It's not too often that Barbara Gordon finds herself making social calls, but it's far too often that when she does, they're unexpected by the people she's calling on. But that's why she always makes sure to bring baked goods of one sort or another. This time it's a half dozen assorted donuts from a little boutique donut place between the Clocktower and Tim's. She's dressed for the last lingering bits of Spring's chill in a dark grey turtleneck and black slacks with a pair of black leather ankle boots as she sweeps her way into Tim's place with a cheerful call, "Tiiiim! I brought donuts! It's time for our semi-annual 'Make sure we're not as obsessed with our 'night life' as Bruce meeting!!" Not that that's a real thing... entirely.

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake chuckles a bit and looks around as he is sitting on the couch with a tablet typing a bit seeming to be looking at things. He smirks luckily Nikki is not about so no explaining that one to her. He sets the tablet aside, and stands walking over to give Babs a hug in greeting "Hey there how you doing?"

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon finds a flat spot to lay down the taped shut bot of donuts, before returning that hug with a brief squeeze and a little laugh, "Oh, I'm fine! Things have been pretty quiet locally, and socially? Totally dead." Eyebrows perk and she grins brightly, "And how are things for you?"

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake smiles and says "Pretty good planning a bit of a trip, but nothing overly important "Come on in have a seat, can I get you something to drink or something?" Yup hospitality manors drilled in wonder by who.

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon laughs and finds herself a seat, eyebrows perking, "Business or pleasure? The trip I mean." She grins crookedly and sighs out, "Oh! If you've got sparkling water that'd be fine. Can't have a drink drink, I need to ride my bike back to the tower."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods and will come back with two waters one for him and one for her as well. "Well a bit of both actually, Nikki has am event in Germany soon, and thought would take the time go with her, and check on some of the wayne tech sub divisions and maybe go a few other places while we are out.

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon laughs and sips her water, eyebrows perking high. "I think that counts are more business than pleasure. Like, Nikki's going to an event, and you're checking up on Wayne Enterprises? That's two thirds business! But I'm sure you'll fit some fun in the other third. Plus I bet Germany has a lot of days that are sunny, not like dreary Gotham."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods his head a bit and says "Yea, I will be taking the costume, but gotta make sure I take the hidden compartment luggage since she does not know about it. Am thinking maybe taking a different costume so Red Robin does not follow us if need be."

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon grins crookedly and rolls her eyes, "Well yeah, I mean, I think we all take at least one whenever we head off abroad. After all, criminals are cowardly and superstitious everywhere... but be sure to touch up on your language training so you know /what/ they're trying to say if you wind up scaring any. You can usually just intuit it but it's more fun to know for sure."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "I will make sure to have translator software in my mask. Just to be on the safe side. So what you been up to?"

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon shrugs and grins a little regretfully, "Oh, you know how it is. Not actually much. Hacking, tracking, all that digital crime fighting stuff. I checked in with Jason a few weeks ago, but I haven't been up to much but the whole... day by day thing! But I still get out now and then, and with spring moving on and summer on the horizon, I'm sure I'll get even more active outdoors."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "I will have to have ya over to meet Nikki sometime soon. I have her set with the Wayne security package, since she does work for the company and also since seen with me publically did not want her to draw kidnappers and such

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon nods her head with a soft little sigh, "Yeah, that's got to be rough. Like, you've basically got the chance of people going after you over costumed trouble /and/ because they just want to ransom a rich kid off for some Wayne tech money. But we'll totally have to get together and you can introduce us!"

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "Taught her some self defense the other day, and then she ran into some trouble on her way over. She handled it mostly, but Red robin finished it for her. You know trying to get to the hospital as Tim after stopping the mugging is not an easy thing

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon laughs softly, "Yeah, that's always the tricky part, isn't it? Like, we aren't all crazy enough to just stitch ourselves up with fishing line like Jason." She pauses for a moment, "Okay, I don't know for sure that he actually does that, but like... him and Cass? Totally the most likely to do that."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods his head a bit and says "Yea, if I am going to have to do it myself, medical staples, and super glue, I know it might not be as tough but I find if I am having to do it myself it works best.

:'''{{#var:58|Barbara Gordon (58)}} has posed:''' Barbara Gordon finger guns and grins crookedly, "See? That's why I make sure if I'm going out to get in a tussle I call on backup first. Never have to patch myself up, and if I do have to patch myself up it's a paper cut when I'm printing out dossiers for the Birds to look over."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "Well the outsider base is down below, but then the group has pretty much quiet of late, I see Bart and Conner occasionally but thats really about it
}}

16164/Daughters of Devils Unite!

2024-04-12T12:33:28Z

PoeWolf: Rachel and Satana beat the zombie necromancer and packed Basilisk back inside of her.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/03
|Location=An ancient cemetery in the mountains.
|Synopsis=Rachel and Satana beat the zombie necromancer and packed Basilisk back inside of her.
|Cast of Characters=1127, 141
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Right flank, Raven!" Satana calls. "I can't get to it in time!" This is an understatement: the beleaguered demon queen is almost bodily holding up the shield that's separating the horde of zombies from the pair, and yet, more zombies keep pouring down the hills from newly-opened graves that only just revealed themselves. "And keep an eye out for the necromancer responsible for this!" she adds with a growl. "He's going straight to Hell when we find him!" Someone wants vengeance. Probably something to do with the huge gash on the side of her torso that she hasn't had time to heal. Pain is not something she enjoys outside of certain bedroom environments. Pain in combat? It's time for the pain. "I will feed on him so slowly he'll learn the hard way..."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' When there's trouble you know who to call...unless it's demons, then that list gets a little shorter. Demon zombies? Well, Zatana was busy, Constantine is currently probably drunk...it was Raven, Raven had been sent. Still, the devil's daughter had quickly discovered she was a little more outnumbered than this 'quick trip to check things out' had suggested. Thankfully? That didn't mean she was currently alone. Bolts of void-black energy with a corona of white slammed into zombies, crushing, burning or otherwise destroying them...but they kept coming and things didn't quite suggest they'd find an end until they found the necromancer. That sort of put a dampner on any time to cast tracking spells. Her cloak was torn, her skin scratched, but Raven continued to fight, her glowing eyes narrowed. "I'm...not sure there's time for 'slow' solutions."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Very foul words ... foul even in the INFERNAL language! ... pour from Satana's lips as she assays the situation and makes a decision. She sighs and slumps as much as she can when exerting herself like she is. "Raven, darling, I'm afraid I'm going to have to do something drastic. I'm going to count down from 10. When I hit 1, take to the sky. Do not get involved until I've finished. Then ... for the sake of the town of Far Bend..." That would be the nearest town about three miles away. "...GET BACK DOWN HERE AND KEEP ME AWAKE!" She hazards a glance Rachel's way before leaning back into the barrier.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' Words that Raven probably understood, but the Titan could be offended or unnerved later...preferably when she wasn't thinking the same thing. Of course, she'd probably blame that on a response to the whole ZOMBIE ARMY and the empathy in close proximity of Satana. Another bird-shaped shadow slamming into one particular group, Raven turns her head towards Satana, eyes still glowing. "Whatever you're planning..." the warning begins.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Will end this once and for all, but it will cost me greatly, Raven dearest," Satana says between gritted teeth. "And it will cost a lot more if I can't rein it in afterward. Be prepared." And with no more words she starts counting. 10... 9... Her shield drops, forcing Raven to take it over as she concentrates on ... herself. There's mystical energies abounding, but they're all turning inward, reaching in deep in her soul. 3... 2... 1... If Raven isn't in the air, she'll be at ground zero on what ensues. From out of the depths of her soul Satana tears out ... a primal force of rage and destruction, it seems. Ten metres in length, made of flame and of malice. A long, dragon-like spirit that solidifies into a long, dragon-like entity radiating flame and fire and fear. With a joyous scream it leaps out, visibly under her control, but also visibly testing that control at every opportunity, and in between such tests tearing into everything moving within reach, mowing down zombies like so much rotting grass.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' The shield drops and the one that follows is clearly made of Raven's own magics. A bubble to shield them as she's forced skywards and away from the destructive energy that she'd dare not summon herself, lest she invite the eyes of her father. The burst of flame comes about and the rampaging beast forces the dark daughter to defensively wield her magic to keep them from being anihilated.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana controls the beast with precision, but at some level something seems off. She's laughing. And it's not that odd for the literaly Daughter of the Devil to be laughing while rampaging in destructions. It's odd that her laughter is mirroring the roars and snarls of the beast. From the beast to her. There's something chillingly symbiotic between the pair and the fact that Satana's face, now in a wide, rigid, mirthless grin of sheer joyous entertainment at the destruction raging about her, is out of character for her usual more suave and social approach to chaos leaves questions in the minds of those who know her. Then a roar of triumph, from both entities: Satana pointing and the demon laying waste to the world around it flying with haste in that direction. At the end of both paths: someone whose very demeanour screams necromancer. Scream being the operative word as the raw terror of the beast racing toward him registers. Looking at the rampaging creature he suddenly freezes in place. And changes colour. To grey. Everything. Clothing included. Just in time for the demon to strike, sending shards of him flying for dozens of metres around. Shards of rock.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' It's extreme, brutal, dangerous...and Raven was just holding on. But she had to move, had to be ready for that moment when the creature finds its prey. After all, Satana had warned her, and Raven knew all too well what it was like to mess with forces waiting to break free. Hissing with effort, the dark aura flows over her, leaving her a silhouetted form of herself extending her hand towards Satana. Ribbons of black seeped out, ready to seize and pull the other demon daughter out of harm's way and into her grasp.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana's voice rings out over the range, echoing from the stones surrounding them: "BASILISK I SUMMON THEE AND RETURN THEE TO BONDAGE!" The overt demon does not like hearing that and now tests Satana's grip on it in earnest, slamming against her will, causing her to stumble forward more than once as she tries to keep it reined in, dragging it slowly but surely toward herself. Finally, at the end, when it is mere millimetres away from her, raging and struggling to break free, Satana pulls her arms in and drags the demon into herself. There's a moment's silence, and it seems fine, then Satana falls to her knees, clutching her head and screaming, "IN! IN YOU FOUL ABOMINATION! IN!" She sways as she struggles for her life, trying to force the creature into the core of her soul once more and rapidly running out of the energy to do it.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' The grasp bolsters as it surges down to Satana, perhaps in itself mostly symbolic in the idea of keeping the demoness on her feet and off her knees. She'd rise up, upwards enough to find herself wrapped in the arms of Raven, or at least that was what it would feel like, but to any who might have been present to observe should such exist? They'd simply see the glowing halo of the bird-shaped manifestation of her magical soul enveloping Satana herself. But it was more than just an emotional support, a second will pressed against Satana's own, not an invader but a bolster as that empathic link was opened and the mind that could stand against Trigon's own lust for destruction.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' The struggle inside is real and while seemingly not *essential*--Satana is largely uninjured and undepleted--Raven's assistance is very clearly appreciated if the sensation of gratitude (wait, a demon with gratitude!? -- must be the human half!) pouring from Satana's soul is anything to go by. Step by step the force of destruction within her is forced into a tighter and tighter space until it is finally forced where it belongs and bound by a simple mental charm. And as quickly as it began, the crisis is over. The demon, referred to as Basilisk in Satana's invocations and bindings, is bound deeply within and all goes quiet. Satana stops screaming unholy syllables of the Dark Tongue into the air, and her soul stops screaming commands. And her body goes slack as she pants. Finally she looks up to where Raven is hovering. "Are you as turned on as I am?" she asks with a weak grin and a wink.
}}

16165/A Rare Shopping Day

2024-04-12T12:33:22Z

PoeWolf: Nikki goes to the mall, runs into Nick, they talk about recent events and have lunch together. This time without the Paparazzi!

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/05
|Location=Queens Center Mall, Jackson Heights
|Synopsis=Nikki goes to the mall, runs into Nick, they talk about recent events and have lunch together. This time without the Paparazzi!
|Cast of Characters=9997, 9039
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' The Mall. It once was a place of unspeakable horrors and terrors beyond imagination for Nikki. These days she's gotten mostly over her fear of being out in public and shopping, especially if she manages to keep her head down and just go in and out of the stores she needs and then head back to the bus station. Or subway. Or perhaps she'll text Tim and he'll just send a car for her. Whatever works. So today she's come to go to a couple stores. Buy some fabrics in one spot, some clothing in another, and then she'll likely pop into one or two of the gaming stores to see if she can pick up anything new for her collections. Though, she might also need to figure out food at some point. For the moment, she's standing in front of one of those maps that shows you where you are and how to get to where you're wanting to go.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' The mall is full of a lot of shopping opportunities. But despite the various items people my find worth purchasing, there is one particular product that's pretty common on most people's lists. FOOD. The directories placed in the mall are positioned at key places, often where one wing of the building connects with another. So, as one Nick Drago, dressed down with his hair tucked away under his knit cap, makes his way to the food court, he turns to find a familiar figure figuring out where to go next. "...Nikki?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki blink-blinks at the sound of a familiar voice. When she turns to face it, Nick can see that her right arm is wrapped in a bandage from wrist to elbow and it's this arm she raises to wave at him. "Heya Nick! Fancy seeing Nick here. Nikki didn't think Nick was a mall-type person." She offers this and then looks back to the map she was just pondering over. "Nikki's here to grab a few things to work on some new cosplay designs, and maybe a new outfit or two for when she goes out with Tim again." A smile from ear to ear when she says that. "What's Nick up to?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick blinks as he's reminded of a core trait of one named Nikki. But with each exposure comes a shorter recovery time. He cracks a slight smile to the observation. "Sometimes the things you need to buy are only found in the mall. Or you don't have time to go out to where you normally shop." He turns, exposing a bookbag that does not appear to be empty. "Sketch supplies." He replies back. Righting his stance, he considers Nikki for a moment. "...By the way, Sorry about the whole. Tabloid thing. Hope that didn't cause any problems for you."

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki smiles and nods. "This is true. Tho Nikki could probably find some of these things online... or Tim could find them for her... she likes to come out every once in a while and shop herself." Saying this as she looks to the map once more and then back to Nick. "Nikki knows a couple good places in the mall for art supplies. Where does Nick normally go?" A pause. "Did you wanna start walking there?" Regardless, she's going to step away from the map now and more to Nick's side. "Nikki is also trying to get better at being out in public again. After she got into a fight in Gotham it's been hard to go outside of Tim's house."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "It'd be a long walk if we went to where we normally go." Nick replies with a shake of a head, "I normally go to Salem Center when I got a lot of things to shop for in one trip.Different sights, Kind of make a day of it." He pauses, "But, today's not one of those days. So, today I just finished up at Brush and Beyond. I'm actually heading to the food court to get something to eat" The musician steps back slightly, turning to look to Nikki as she explains getting into a fight and the trouble getting outside. "Oh really? Did you get hurt?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' "Yeah. This small group of guys pulled me into an alleyway in Gotham. Wanted my money and my phone..." Nikki begins to explain. "I managed to punch one of them, call an emergency line I have access to but just before help arrived, one of the other guys slashed at me with a knife. Took it on the arm. Wound up falling back and cracked my head on the ground. So mild con...concu...brain injury...thing...and stitches in my arm." She beams tho. "Good thing Wayne Enterprises has kick ass insurance." As Nick mentions he's going to the food court, Nikki nods. "Mind if Nikki joins you? Waiting for some of my fabric order to be done still then she can pick it up, do the rest of her shopping and go home."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "No," Nick replies, "I don't mind at all." Turning to head towards the food court, he considers the information shared. "That's. Not a fun experience. Getting attacked." He comments, stating the obvious, "Nor are the concussions or the stabbings." Nick brings up his right arm, bending it to show the scar on the forearm. "I got this one when I was working in a convenience store."

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki winces visibly. "Oh! And don't worry about the tabloid stuff. Tim understood and wasn't upset or anything. He actually appreciates the fact that I had a friend willing to walk me to a safe spot." She says this and then comes back around. "That's a nasty scar...I'll probably have one like that. And it wasn't fun, but in the end I'm okay and that's what matters.." Sharing that as she smells of the food court find her. "Did you have any idea where you were gonna get lunch from?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Glad to hear he was understanding." Nick nods, lowering his arm, "It wasn't fun to get, that's for sure. Buuuut it did end up changing my life around a bit. It actually got me to where I first met Rod, which led to Jack and Wade... Making Silver Round..." He pauses, shaking his head for a moment before glancing ahead of him in the direction of the food court. Nick hurms, "Not sure right at the moment. Probably what looks good."

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' "That's a big ask from some place like the mall. It all smells good and looks good, but it's a risk to eat it none the less." Says the woman who is joining the man for lunch. "I might just get some ice cream from one of these places. Not sure what I'm hungry for..." Then her phone chimes, so she pauses to look, answers a text back, and then continues walking. "Oh! I'll be going to Germany in a couple weeks. Got a Smite tournament to go play in."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Everywhere you eat comes with a risk." Nick comments, "Including home. Might as well enjoy the source of the risk." He pauses as they reach the food court glancing around at the lit signs. "Sometimes you end up coming across a gem of a mom and pop type of place..." Nick turns to the mention of the tournament. "Oh Germany sounds nice. I'm assuming you're going to ask Tim to come along?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' "Nikki supposes so..." Offering this before looking around at the lit signs when they get to the food court. Nothing really stands out to her while she looks over and then she glances back to Nick. "Oh yeah...it'll be fun. And Tim's gonna come along, he and Nikki are going to make a week out of it..." This much more before she tilts her head one way and then the other. "Cause Nikki wants to see a few other places and it'll be easier being in Germany and taking trains around Europe..."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' "Good idea." Nick agrees, "If you're making the trip out there, might as well get some extra days in... I even had a few days off here and there in my schedule when I was filming overseas." Nick pauses his look around as he sees a person stepping out from the counter area with a tray ladden with samples. A glance to the sign betrays it not being a chain. A glance to the prices and the small line, causes for him to give a curious look. "I think I may have found my latest food adventure..."
}}

16168/Bounty. The quicker kill you deader.

2024-04-12T12:33:14Z

PoeWolf: Dean is informed about the bounty on his car... and also him and his brother. Plans are made to make things uncomfortable for the Red Court.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/06
|Location=McAnally's Pub
|Synopsis=Dean is informed about the bounty on his car... and also him and his brother. Plans are made to make things uncomfortable for the Red Court.
|Cast of Characters=7044, 306, 9039, 10042
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' The Paranet is a valuable tool for many reasons. The biggest one being that most Supernatural Creatures don't use much technology, seeing anything made past a color television as a passing fad. So while being far from secure, it is a fairly safe way for those "In the know" to pass messages. In this case two were sent out. The first to @Baby'sDaddy saying to contact @TooSaxxy4ThisShit about a matter of some urgency. The Second, a simple silhouette of Scooby Doo against a white circle, followed by a beer emoji and a steak emoji.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester isn't directly connected to the Paranet, but he knows people who are (Bobby and sometimes Sam) so its not that hard to get a message to him. He has an account, but doesnt check it until told to. Either way, its serious enough that he shows up. He has Baby loaded for bear for Witch hunting; assuming they might need dealing with a rogue caster before the White Council shows up. Either way, he shows up and looks about for the perosn matching the description in the message.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' What is also a convenient tool for getting people to McAnally's is just the fact it is McAnally's. Nick has some general feelings regarding phones and it is often times at the insistence of his manager that he even has a phone that can face time when he's touring for work. Any other time? It's that durn Nokia. Damn durable. Screen seems the only thing that gets smushed but the call feature still functions. Those who know him know better than to assume text messages will be received. And those who don't? Well does he even want to read those messages? Well, with the pull of the McAnally's food and drink, plus his odd ability to be in the right place at the wrong time. Nick ends up stepping up to the pub. A particular car in the parking lot causes for him to give pause, looking to it for a few seconds. "...There's no way." Nick finally decides before continuing his walk to the pub entrance.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Mac's Parking lot isn't /too/ big, so the fact the Antique Impala is parked next to a White Corvette of similar vintage might raise an eyebrow. Thomas Raith is not hard to spot, even if he and Dean had not met in passing a few times. The man is quite literally supernaturally attractive. When Dean comes in he raises his arm to wave to the other man and holds up a Mac's Dark in his direction. His meeting, he buys the first round at least. When Nick comes in he waves to him as well. If anyone were to just see them? A couple of boys having a beer together.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester is cautious around Thomas, but the folks that vouched for him means his alright. If he set this meeting up, he will assume it is Informed. He nods, "How's it going?" Which is of course his polite way of asking 'have you gone full monster?' Which he might be blunt as a baseball bat with nails hammered in, he's not a Dick. .....Usually. He sips the beer and nods, "Damn, that's good stuff."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Coming in to the pub, Nick's general suspicions are confirmed as he sees both Thomas and Dean already ahead of him. A brow lifts and he approaches as Thomas waves to him. Nick's hand lifts as well, returning the greeting. Upon getting within speaking distance, Nick follows up the wave with a more verbal greeting. "Thomas." He greets with a nod, before looking over to Dean. "Dean. Long time." Nick pulls out a seat, claiming it before joining them at the table. "How're travels?"

:'''{{#var:10042|Kit Killovarras (10042)}} has posed:''' The roar of a motorcycle heralds the coming of something strange, since it's only a few moments after the engine cuts that a massive bipedal hyena walks into the pub, clad in dark jeans and what can only be described as a tan tunic. This is Kit and apparently, someone tipped him off that this place had a damn good steak sandwich and with a creature that is always hungry? That sounds like heaven. He doesn't really seem too aware of his surroundings, though he will give familiar faces a polite nod before making his way over towards the bar. There's food to be ordered, after all.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods to Dean and chuckles, "Just another day in paradise." He says and takes a drink of his own beer. As Nick comes over he trades grips with the other man as well and asks "Sandwhiches and fries good for every--" Then a hyena walks in. Kit deffinatly get's noticed, but its the sort of notice that is more "Huh, don't see that every day." as opposed to "Oh my god oh my god hide the children." Thomas shakes his head and waits for Mac to deal with Kit's order before ordering three sandwhiches and six more beers for his table. Upon returning he asks Dean plainly, "What do you know about the Red Court?"

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "I seen just about everything...including a cursed needle that winked its eye. Took silver to kill the damn thing. Hyenas are practically normal." He waves to Nick, "Hey, you in on this or just a patron? Long time no see indeed...." he bites the sandwich ravenously and drinks the ale while listening to Thomas continue. "Red Court....vampires. Fire. Silver. Holy Water. Garlic. easier than Black, Harder than Hellmouth or Book vampires.....so about medium range, but organized more than any other kind...mainly political power. Killed several a month ago. Why do you ask?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Hearing Thomas's comment, Nick turns his head to look over to Kit and then looks back to the vampire. "Oh that's Kit." Getting a general sense he might want to give more context to how he knows the bipedal hyena, he pauses. "...Kind of classmates." He adds in. "Although I'm more independent study so..." Ok maybe that's not helping. Dean's question draws him back to the here and now. "Oh. I have a general idea of what Thomas is about to tell you. And if you guys need help with it, well you should know where I stand by now."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly but says "You've got some of your facts mixed, Garlic and silver are for Black Court. With Reds it's best to cut open the blood reservoir." He says drawing a line across his belly. "No blood, no power. They can't even make a flesh mask." He takes a bite of his own sandwich and continues. "The Red King has put out a hit list. Distributed it to every Merc, Hitter and two dollar thug out there. You are on it. So is your brother. Actually so is your car." He produces a piece of paper and slides it over to Dean. It's just a list of names and prices. Indeed Dean's name is on it, as is Sam's. Both listed for $1,000,000. A black 1967 Chevrolet Impala owned by the Winchesters is listed at $25,000. For reference, Xander Harris is listed at $5,000. Other members of the $1,000,000 club include Buffy, Faith, Willow, The Halliwell sisters, the Vera Sisters, and Harry Dresden. Nick and Thomas are both conspicuious with their absense.

:'''{{#var:10042|Kit Killovarras (10042)}} has posed:''' Well, an order for lemonade and five sandwich orders later and the hyena gives a glance to the others, an ear twitching slightly at the comment of hyena's being practically normal, though it leads to more of a chuckle than anything resembling anger. Nick gets a little smile as the hyena muses, "We're both pretty 'independent study' where that's concerned, honestly." with a nod and an added, "Can be a seriously small world sometimes too, though." with a little shrug. Whether or not he knows anything about the red court, or vampires though? He's going to focus more on the feast he just ordered for now. The commentary it seems, was more to hint that he has exceptional hearing.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester takes the whole thing pretty much in stride. He's had bounties on him before. When Thomas mentions the bounty on baby, he spits out his beer, "I'll kill him. Do you know where he lives? I'll blow him and his entire court up. If you guys are on their radar we can all focus on im and take him out. I'm game for tomorrow if he's local." He doesnt say it but feels bad for Xander...thats rough. Kid's worth 20K easy....Maybe 10.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith chuckles "He's in Mexico, surrounded at all times by by Vampires, human thralls, and Children. He loves children. Protects them. Nurtures them. Because they will grow up to be loyal servents and he knows people like you won't just blow him up if he has a bunch of kids around him." He answers Dean as he sips his beer. "Going after him in his base of operations isn't suicide. It's genocide. And he never ever leaves."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick hurms. "Thomas did mention this guy might be making this list in such a way to rile people up. Whiiiich could explain the car being on there." He pauses, "Or why he put such a low amount on Xander." He pauses as Thomas mentions how the count surrounds himself with others. But to the mention of the love for children, Nick grimaces. "Red Count has a red flag."

:'''{{#var:10042|Kit Killovarras (10042)}} has posed:''' "Thaaat's a bit twisted.." Kit murmurs after wolfing down his first sandwich, his ears flattening ever so slightly when the children are mentioned. Then he starts in on another sandwich, content to mostly listen for now. Though, gears are already turning in the hyena's head by now, surely.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "Kids? Asshole uses kids as shields? All the more reason to kill him." Its like he HEARS what Tom is saying but doesnt register as impossible. But he isnt overtly talking about full frontal assault, only a different method of killing him. There has to be a way; always is and Dean will find it. "Well...consider me Riled.""

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly though says to Nick, "Don't get me wrong, he actually does take care of the kids. My father used to tell a story about a Red that attacked a kid? The King had them hung in a cage with a small pinhole that let in sunlight. Not enough to kill him, just enough to trail like a laser over his body over the course of the day. Then at night there were all these sharp pointy weapons where anyone could poke and prod him. Guy lasted five years before sticking his head in the sun beam." He shrugs and adds, "Remind me when this is over to point you at Silverlight."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick nods as he overhears Kit's commentary. Yep. Children shields are not good. Fingertips tap upon the tabletop as he considers things. "...If someone were to put a bounty on him. And make it even lower than Xander's amount. What would he do if he got word of it?"

:'''{{#var:10042|Kit Killovarras (10042)}} has posed:''' Yet another sandwich polished off before the hyena reaches into a pocket and pulls out a small piece of paper, flipping the little thing over between his fingers a few times before a violet energy pours over it, slightly burning the paper in a sort of pattern. Once the design is formed in the paper, it leaves his paw and levitates over near Dean. When the card lands, it's with the design faced up, revealing an old arcane mark - a simple but powerful ward against spiritual harm - and the yeens name beneath it in Arabic. "Anything that hides behind children deserves to suffer.." is all that's said between the second and third sandwich, though it's said a bit louder than his last comment; loud enough to be heard easily at least.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "I mean, its nice that he plays with his food and loves it; but its still kids...as human shields...and the dude wants my Car. Its if, not when, but until we figure out like an orbital strike or something....maybe bribe Superman, I'm thinking that I wanna know how to hurt this guy...a lot. Any local Red Court facilities...properties? Make em bleed metaphorically and literally I say. He takes the card and nods,"Thanks. This looks like good mojo. And I'll take all the help I can to mess with this asshole. Riled indeed. Gonna spray paint that on each building we burn until we boss level him."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith allows himself a wolfish smile as he considers the proposition of striking at the Red Court. "Of course I personally would have to stay out of it, politics. But I suppose I could recommend a few...establishments to a friend who were interested in their services." He says and writes the words "Velvet Room" on a napkin.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' To Nick he shakes his head. "He'd find it amusing actually. It's not like anyone would ever try to collect. As loing as he is in Chizu--- As long as he is in Chaka--- as long as he is in Chicken Pizza no one is going to come after him.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Whelp so much for that idea. Nick frowns. "... Beyond the human shields, what protections does he have against those not tied to those accords?" ... "Chicken pizza?"

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester nods and takes the note, making a mental note to look it up. "If you mean make it look like the Kid is messing them up I'm in, if he is. Make em sweat. "Chi...." he swigs a whole ale not to laugh.

:'''{{#var:10042|Kit Killovarras (10042)}} has posed:''' There's a little sound that comes from the yeen when 'chicken pizza' is mentioned as a locations, though whatever it was it quickly becomes a half-gag as he momentarily chokes on a piece of sandwich. After a moment of collecting himself and taking a drink though? He's going to give Dean a glance and a simple, "You'll take all the help you can get, huh?" as a toothy smile plays over his maw for a moment. Then he gives a little shrug and adds, "Well, I wouldn't mind pissing off a few more vampires.."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith gives that School Boy grin that could, to steal a song lyric, make an old woman blush and a young girl squeel. "I've barely got a grip on English. Be glad it's not the White court. You think my Spanish is bad you should hear my Ancient Etruscan." He takes another bite of his sandwhich. "That said, if you need my advice, or help you both know how to reach me." He nods to Mac adding "Two sandwiches and a triple order of fries to go." adding to the pair, "I wanna check in with Harry and Willow."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester nods, "Sounds like a plan to me." He nods, "Give me what you can, I'll kill em on the sides and we work our way up the chain until we figure out how to hit the king. Check mate." He orders another of those damn fine beers.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith looks to Nick and answers honestly. "I have no idea. I can promise he has defenses that I don't know about though. I am sure he has protection on the other side of the Ways, but I have no idea what kind. Though considering they used to do human sacrifices in the tens of thousands there I can't imagine they will be fluffy bunnies."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' As his question is answered, Nick nods slightly. "Alright...So tread carefully. Maybe the stealth approach works. Maybe it won't." With Thomas making his way out, Nick lifts up his glass in a bit of a mock toast before raising it to his lips.
}}

16170/A lantern and a Harlequin walk into the park

2024-04-12T12:33:06Z

PoeWolf: Tyran'tar goes off to do his duties while harley does harley stuff.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/07
|Location=South Point, Nantwich
|Synopsis=Tyran'tar goes off to do his duties while harley does harley stuff.
|Cast of Characters=7436, 62
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     It was one of those rare evenings in gotham where things were semi peaceful. Tyran'tar was in the park, a green energy field surrounding him as he had green casts on his right arm and legs as he hovers above the ground. Despite the green energy fields, he was dressed in Bermuda pants and a tie dye hawaiian shirt as he seems to be watching the humans mill about in the park.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Is not in the park.. she's on a building roof not far away.. she was going to do someting that she already fergot about when she spotted the orange human with the green glow! "Woah wait.. it's a hunky kori! " She blinks " that's diffrent! . right now she's debatting several ways she could say hello to the tamerian and guessing on his level of pissed off at all of them

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     Tyran'tar didnt hear the woman. He floats above the ground, a green construct of an alien lounge chair forms in mid air as he lays on it and tries to get comfortable. He wasnt fully healed from his little clash with the juggernaught, but shouldnt take much longer for him to be able to get rid of the casts.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:'''      Harley smirks and snaps her finger! "PERFECT " she pulls out a massive Bazzoka! complete with spots and colors and streamers and glitter! moments later the sound of Pomb.. is heard what she launched is a RPP rocket propelled PIE! yep one mustard pie to the face via a rocket that would kill a human.. but fine for a tamerean should be a perfect way to say hello right?

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     The ring flashes as something is flying towards him and he turns just in time to get a mustard pie to the face. He blinks as if looking confused before using his ring to track the trajectory which he floats over to the woman with the rpg, his lounge chair vanishing as he looks to the woman.     "While I do appreciate the greeting." He says as he goes about licking the mustard off. "May I help you miss?"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Beams a huge smile " Hiya " she grins " You look like mah friend kori.. so figured you'd like a mustard pie " the glow girl grins "Ah though all your people were slaves or soemthing that's whatshe told me.. or did she free em and thier hiding ah can't keep track "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Koriad'r sister rules Tamaran with an iron fist. I am from Tamaran, a former soldier. I was to be excuted then I escaped with the power ring." He explains as he removes his mask, making it vanish as he bows. "I am Tyran'tar, Of sector 2828. I am here temporarily to keep earth and sector 2814 safe while the human lanterns are away. And you are?"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Swings her bat to her shoulder and holds her her hand " HARLEY QUINN nice to meet cha " she says with that slightly insane grin of hers grabbing the hand and givving it a shake " Oh your one of those kinky laterns how awsome.. you can make sex toys in all those fun shapes "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Thats one of the ways we use our abilities." He says with a chuckle as heshakes her hand with his uninjured hand. "So this is my first time visiting gotham. Any recommendations for tourists?" He asks with a friendly smile.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn thinks for a moment tapping her chin " Run? " she says honestly " this is a very dark nasty place no fit for a tourists " She has been hanging with batman so she's feeling good gir today " Most people roundhere view tourists as meat "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Interesting assessment." He says as he watches the clown girl and he nods as he looks about. "Tell me about yourself. Got any plans?" He asks curiously.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Blinks " Wait you don't know who I am ' She blinks "HA that's a riot " She beams a big smile " I'm choas .. I never have plans just stuff that goes boom " She smirks

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Your criminal record says you were the accomplice of someone called the joker but that you are good now. Trained mental health expert, chemistry genius and acrobat, Nice." He says as he displays a hologram of her record for her to see.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Blinks " Ya fergot queen of he booty shorts, hot blond and killer right hook " She smirks as she looks over the report flicking her finger "I've never seen the other lanterns use it like that.. then again most of the time thier tying me up and not the fun way "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "I will be sure to update your file when I can with that." He says sarcastically and he nods as he enlarges the hologram so she can read it better. "So in a nutshell, the only limits to these power rings is one's imagination. I bet you could do alot with one."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Laughs ' yeah I would I remember when one of those yellow rings came near me and Mr J.. good thing batman shows up then ta be honest.. I don't think I should have one of those .. I'm dangerous enough as is " she chuckles

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "So the file says." He says as he makes the hologram vanish. "The yellow rings arent that different from the green ones, only instead of being powered by will, it is powered by people being afraid of you."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Snorts " Ah.. yeah not good half of gotham is scared of me and when i have bombs everybody is " She giggles " but I'm not like that anymore.. I was a little crazy back then " She cartwheels a bit "I dunno if I got a good will or a bad one " she shrugs " but if thier was a ring of fun I'd take that right away "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Think if there was a ring of fun then they would be the strongest lantern corps." He says with a smile at the woman. He then looks about.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Beams a big smile "right " She giggles as she thinks for a moment "So how ya adjusting to the human thing. Ah know kori the sweetheart found a way to fit in and do stuff showing off and all that " she grins " Can you answer me why all the aliens are hot? "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     "Well we aren't all hot. I think there is a green lantern which looks like a larger version of your squirrels." He says as he nods. "You think I'm Hot do you? I have never really been told that. Course I just dont pay attention I think."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Nods her head "Oh yeah ,I mean kori a model you know.. people paid alot of money to take pictures of them looking good in clothes " She says brightly sitting on the edge of the building and swinging her legs a bit as she leans back. She looks over " you could do that too you know as for a squirel don't bring him here.. he'd get cuddled to death "

:'''{{#var:7436|Tyran'tar (7436)}} has posed:'''     He moves to sit next to her and he just laughs. "Nah I dont think people would like me too much, got a bunch of scars and such." He says as he looks the blonde over. "So Harley Quinn, what do you like to do?"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn thinks for a moment " Blow stuff up..hit on girls " She thinks "Try and kill Mr j " she thinks " Walk my babbies "
}}

16171/Coffee, Bagle and Boots

2024-04-12T12:28:17Z

PoeWolf: New Boots for Emma - molded right on the feet!

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/07
|Location=Hellfire Club - Manhattan
|Synopsis=New Boots for Emma - molded right on the feet!
|Cast of Characters=9025, 113
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' The office door of Emma Frost at the Hellfire Club opens, letting in the smell of freshly brewed coffee. Coffee sitting in a can on a tray balanced on the hands of a redhead as she pushes the door further open. "Miss Frost? Your mail is here, as well as some breakfast." she announces. The uniform on top is pretty standard issue for the club, but the the boots for sure are not. Long, red, and no straps, buckles or zipper to be seen despite them hugging the legs up to the thighs. Alice and her boots.

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Is here but she's in her White queen outfit that is to say not much at all. her cape is drapped over a chair as she reviews various documents for some buisness . She glances over .oO Is it morning already? Oo. using telepatic speach to talk . She siffes .oO your using the gold brazilian cofffee fresh roast.. my favorite Oo.

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice says, "It's morning, yes. Did you... stay in the Office overnight, Miss Frost?" Alice asks as she settles the tray on the large desk, sorting the letters into the inbox by sender address, then putting the cofffee and cream chease bagle (low fat!) to a spot that was not claimed by documents and papers. Putting the tray aside, she moves around to pick up the long cape, eying the wrinkles in it before she brushes them out with her hand. All the little kinks removed by application of her own own powers. Carefully folding it in the middle, the cape is returned by the redhead to the back of the chair, but this time without being creased more than necessary. "Anything else you need?""

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Might not look like she's paying attention or even looking towards the girl she's floating the bagle so she can takes dainty bites and has already sipped the coffee several times.. But she looks over "Boots " she says simply " I like those boots.. do you have a few of them so we can model them?"

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice tilts the head a moment at the question, then shakes her head. "Uh, not really. I mean, no pair of boots survives the day with me." Inhaling as she reaches for a letter opener on the desk, the tip slips between skin and the faux leather hugging the leg, cutting it open down to the knee. Stopping the peeling, Alice does mend the cut again, the letter opener returning to its rest on the desk. "They might be similar, but I don't wear the same pair of boots twice, and change their pattern and decor as I want."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Turns in her chair and brings up her own very very lovley long leg right now without a shoe or stockings and her dainty white feet " I want something.. bold powerful and sassy that says this bitch is here " She smirks "I'm feeling shock and awe is the mood I'm in.. can you whip something up like that? "

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice says, "Do you need a zipper or eyelets so you can get out of them or are you ok with my way of one-use shoe for that?" Alice asks as she brushes through her hair. "I might need to get the cloth bag, depending on the details. But I guess... white, a slight pattern... and if you want heels, I might need a pair from the wardrobe for the heel reinforcement.""

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost chuckles " Are you not my tailor? " she asks " did i not provide you with the best you can ask for " she chuckles " I also have all the details of my body and a manaquin thats made from a mold of my body so you can make it fit perfectly "

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice's eyebrows narrow a moment, shaking her head at the suggestion that she wouldn't have been provided with materials. "I didn't mean that, Miss Frost. Or that I need the manequin. Just... I need about two minutes to grab the bag with the materials. Is that ok with you or do I need to work with what's in the office?" She could, of course...

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Laughs and smiles she stands up and walks over tk heeels before she pats your cheek softly " it's okay dear I'm not some monster who demands everything now.. besides your a mutant one of my people.. I would never mistreat you " You can tell she really means that. She beam a smile " Now go please.. i look forward to how cute you can make me "

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice blushes at the contact, hurrying out of the room with the emtpy tray to retrieve what she had called the bag. As she returns some minute or so later, it turns out to be more of a crate full of white fabrics, ribbons and blocks of plastics, balancing a smaller tincan above. The smaller box sounds like small metal pieces shifting inside as the redhead puts the box down, moving on to the wardrobe to look for the pair of heels in worst shape to 'recycle for its steel support. "Miss Frost... as your seamstress I suggest you take a seat and put these on, then I put the rest together in situ..."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost emma almost never wears he same outfit.. while she is in the same getup it's always new.. that's what being super mega rich gets you.. She's not evil she donates the clothes or gives it to be recycled into something else.. but she only wears new clothes!

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' "You know, your feet love you if you wear the same shoes a couple times, as the shoes form to your feet. At least that's what the Podologist claims." Alice remarks as she offers the almost new pair of heels to Emma, just worn once or maaaybe twice, or so the sole tells. "So you said you want them... seeping power and a little bit cute?"

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost chuckles softly " you know me too well ' She smirks " yes power and sex and a touch of cute that's my mood " She says simply " My feet are diamonds dear..New feels nicer on my skin "

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' "Sounds like I should put them on Velvet or call Mr. Lehnsherr to have them put in a gold claw on a ring." Alice manages to quip as she moves to pick up the box of fabrics and plastics, seeking through it for a while. As she finally picks a bale of white synthetic leather, she unrolls some, offering a feel of it. "For the outer layer I thought about this, maybe doubled up with a thin layer of ice blue tull for accent at times. You want to seep power, so up to the knee, maybe two fingers from the skirt. Lacing in stark white at the back, if you don't want to cut them off your legs tonight. And if you *really* want to go for killer boots... maaaybe a few little windows and you put on the diamonds."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Smirks as you watch she slowly transforms just her leg slowly turning into her diamond form.. as she wiggles her toes.. to show the girl before she slowly shifts all the way back.She nods " I like the accent with the blue white fur what if I wanna wear just bikini bottoms like now? " She asks looking at the small woman with those blue eyes "Put in a very high heel today "

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' "Well..." Alice swallows drily as she rummages in the box for some fau fur for a little trim before she starts to work the polymer all over the diamond leg, merging and melding it with the shoes she picked for their spine and frame. "We can go pretty much *to* that edge, if you really want to stretch them to there, but there's a point when they stop being comfy and turn more arduous to wear about... there..." For a moment Alice finger indicates the height. "Any higher and walking can start to chafe, I advice against. But if you want..."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Smirks " thats fine lets stop at that line I like the extremes some times " She smirks... some times showing alot but not really is more fun that showing it all " She chuckles and purrs before sipping more of her coffee

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' "I guess that's why some people wear Latex all over." Alice remarks, fingers workign the polymer material right against the diamond calves and thighs, engraving patterns. More material was added to create a slight overlay using tulle and faux fur, at other spots she carved out holes to the leg beneath, and last, she pulled eyelets from the box that had been closed deliberately before, so she could inset them, molding the faux leather to hold them. After that, she added the lacing that should hold it closed, only then parting the polymers to separate parts that the lacing closed.

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost cocks her head as she watches the girl work , she then looks back to her papers going over them.. after all she wants to see how hot they are when they are done to see what the gril would come up with for today , letting her pick what she wants inside the box she gave her

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Working out the boots from the raw material took its time, even as half of it was already in the right shape. As the boots formed in union, the better part of an hour passed, leaving Emma with truely unique boots.... and a heavy breath as Alice settled on the ground. "I hope they are worth wearing at least twice..."

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Emma Frost Smirks " I do tends to keep boots longer than anything else " She says as she stands and walks slowly to geta feel before using some Tk to bring over a mirror to look over the boots and how she looks in them looking at herself from diffrent anles

:'''{{#var:9025|Alice (9025)}} has posed:''' Alice meanwhile gathers up the scraps of material dropped, exhaling some as she looks over her shoulder to Emma...
}}

16172/The Hunter and the Devil....oh and Nick too.

2024-04-12T12:28:13Z

PoeWolf: So. A Winchester walks into Lux....and doesn't actually shoot the place up for being filled with demons and a Devil. Lucky Lucifer.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/07
|Location=Club Lux, Melville
|Synopsis=So. A Winchester walks into Lux....and doesn't actually shoot the place up for being filled with demons and a Devil. Lucky Lucifer.
|Cast of Characters=735, 306, 9039, 231
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Another night, another round of the socialite of New York coming to drown their sorrows in alcohol, give their eyes a feast of cage dancers, and perhaps make absolute fools of themselves on the dance floor. Lucifer is, as he always seems to be when he's making a visit, in his little perch. A crook of space at the top of a spiral staircase, whiskey in hand and eyes scrutinizing the crowd. He is, as always, dressed impecibly in a three piece suit. Tonight he's gone for a soot-gray color with a cream undershirt and matching handkerchief tucked in his left breast pocket. Eyes soon shift to the stage where Nick Drago has been performing - much to the delight of everyone - and his lips curl into a half smirk as he takes a sip of his whiskey.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester walks in and approves the decorum. Not bad for what, according to word on the hunter grape vine, was that it was a demon infested literal hellhole, but he didnt smell Sulphur and he didnt see any one being eaten mauled or clawed. Some of the dancers were particularly delicious. Dean gave the name James Dyne (with a Y common mistake) and sat at the bar. He looked around, enjoying the performance from the guy he met just the other day. Small world. He ordered a Whiskey sour, despite the temptation at the perversity of asking for a PBR in a high class place like this.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Lux has a bit of a reputation and one of which is providing some memorable entertainment. Add in the occasional performance of a popular musician who inexplicably canceled a world tour years ago and has yet to provide an explanation to it and- Well. It does provide a bit of marketing. As Nick is performing, he's very much channeling his stage persona tonight, providing a stark contrast to the conservatively dressed man from the pub the night before. His hair is no longer restrained and instead whisps around wildly. Eyes are darkened with eyeliner and his clothes... Well. They are of a higher quality than before. Definitely not second hand and the cut is much closer leaving just a little left to guess about. The shirt he wears is sleeveless, betraying the well toned arms of a man who does a log of climbing and a scar upon the right forearm that hints to a story being behind it. That is assuming the bright lights allow for the scar to be that visible that is. It's nearing the end of the encore and in a general sense of tradition, Nick has opted for a high energy number, allowing for what's left of the audience's energy levels to be burned away at the dance floor. While the lyrics to 'Be You' aren't quite the works of Shakespeare, but what it lacks for in verboseness makes up for it in the ease in which the audience can sing along in the chorus parts.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' The bartender is a demon. The waitstaff are demons. Maybe not the same demons the Winchester's are used to hunting - because they aren't harming any one since the one controlling them is the proprieter of this club. None the less. You're surrounded, Dean. Get used to it. Lucifer enjoys the performance by Nick a little longer before shifting to set his now empty glass on the tray of a passing waitress and picks up another glass from a second one following behind. The motion is fluid, seamless, almost planned perhaps. There's a new face at the bar, rugged and as if it has seen some things. Saved some people. A single eyebrow lofts on Lucifer's face as he shifts his gaze to the bartender who serves up the Whiskey Sour and then catches his boss' eye. A look. A question. Interesting. One step. Another. And then Lucifer is at the bar, settling upon a stool with a seat between himself and the Winchester son. "Long night?"

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester doesnt have an evil detector. That sounded like a great idea and it almost got him mauled by a werebear. He shuddered at the memory taking a deep sip of his drink despite the awesomeness of the music. He looks Luci up and down and this time there is something...familiar...a resonance perhaps? He isnt sure but since Lucifer isnta ctively trying to kill him, he's enjoying the place, "Long life friend, but just scoping out the vibe. Its nice." Not satanic at all. Oh the irony. He extends his hand, "Jimmy Dyne, sounds like Dean but with a Y."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' By this time with enough repetition it's become obvious how the chorus goes. As enough audience members start singing along, Nick moves the microphone away from his lips to point them towards the audience, encouraging them to sing along. The background music dies back allowing for the voices to carry more. Enough people in the audience who still have enough of their faculties, take him up on the offer. 'Be You. Yeah things don't go to plan. But. Be You. Don't be any other man. Be You. You're an original, that is true. Be You. Be You. Be You. Be You. Take back your voice. Be You. You've got that choice. Be You. Be You.' Nick brings the microphone back to his lips, commanding the audience once more. "AGAIN!" With a loud boom, the band moves back in full force, playing the final round of the music for the chorus as Nick joins back in for the close. 'Be You. Yeah things don't go to plan. But. Be You. Don't be any other man. Be You. You're an original, that is true. Be You. Be You. Be You. Be You. Take back your voice. Be You. You've got that choice. Be You. Be You.' In a demonstration for how on spot the staff of the Lux is, with the final note, the lights fly up and cut off, signifying the end of the concert. There's a smattering of cheers from those still sober to do so while a few start to filter towards the bar to close out their tabs. Others make their way to tables to get themselves situated, needing to rest up before following suit.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Ah. Now that I can relate to. Long life I mean." Lucifer responds to Dean, his lips pulled back in a smile. "Well, welcome to Lux - I'm glad you're liking the vibe. It differs every once in a while depending on who I have on stage, or if it's just the usual DJ. I'm lucky enough to know Nick and am able to book him for some nights when he's not off touring or trying to be a movie star." The Devil laughs at the idea and then takes another sip of his whiskey. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Lucifer. Owner and proprieter of this very establishment. I have a feeling I know... well I maybe don't know -you- on a personal level, but I feel like I've heard about you, even read about you somewhere..." A pause, that smirk remains. "Can't put my finger on it. You also might just have one of those faces."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester blinks at the fact that this gentelman owns the club. He doesnt LOOK like a demon. He blinks a moment and considers before replying, "Well high end clubs always change a lot. Shaking it up is sharp and if Nick is performing here that's a positive sign." It is actually. He probably could have saved himself the trip once he saw hm performing....but the whiskey was good. "Your eye for Curvy Candy is definitely on the high end of the bell curve. I think that..." he spits out his whiskey (Fortunately not ON to Lucifer, "I'm sorry....did you just introduce yourself as Lucifer? As in Morningstar?" Was this a trick? Was Sam setting him up in retaliation for that birthday prank? "I...get...around....people say I look like a few actors, but I work in insurance...." The lie is pointless if he is delaling with THE actual, but he is assuming that he is wrong. He rarely ignores his instinct but he actually likes the club and would hate to go shooting it up randomly.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' With the concert concluded and persons filtering off of the dance floor, Nick ends up making his way to the club's equivalent of a green room. Granted, he could probably just go up to his hotel room. But maybe not while there are still people who could potentially follow him up there. Nick may have relaxed his guard a little since his time hunkered down at the Trisk, but he hasn't relaxed it THAT much.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer watches as his precious whiskey is given a spit-take by Dean once the man processes the introduction made by himself. He hefts a sigh and then waves a hand in the air as if dismissing such things. "And if I were to confirm that I do mean the very one and same? I am Lucifer Morningstar. You can believe it, or not, people do and they don't. It's sort of a mixed bag here." He offers, very casual in the conversation portion of that. Face of an actor, but he works in insurance? Interesting. "Anyway. Just a few things to note. We do have a working kitchen if you get peckish, pretty much anything you can fry in grease and put on a plate is on offer. The first drink is always free, and you do not have to order another if you don't wish, you'll still walk out of here with a free drink. Anything else ordered comes at cost, of course." He stands then, downing the rest of his whiskey before setting the glass on the bar which the bartender quickly snags to clean. "If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know. I have a high stake in people enjoying their time here."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' The elevator quietly dings. What steps forth is anything but quiet, though she says nothing when she arrives. Dressed head to toe in red and black, Miss Sinister arrives on the scene. A sheer black lace frock coat, the patterns in serpents and roses, is fastened at the waist by two red straps. Beneath, the curves are somehow confined in a red silk shirt that ... isn't hers. That's one of Lucifer's. That's HIS bright crimson armani shirt she's wearing! With an under bosom waistcoat pushing everything up whilst not apparently showing anything it shouldn't. The two couple of buttons are undone, showing off a black velvet choker and below are legs that have been poured into black moleskin somehow. Make-up on point, smokey eye look and... the red diamond in her forehead. There's a deep breath. There should probably have been a warning label attached to that manoever. "Dammit, I missed the end. Le sigh..." a whiskey and cocaine kind of voice that is. Off she glides, toward the bar.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester considers his next words carefully but the curiosity is real. Its extreme. "I think you likely recognize me from Wanted Posters....Name's Dean" he lowers his voice, "Winchester. I mean, I've met some folks that....are fearless, but...seriously...I believe you. Thats like...chutzpah. Like, impressive. No misdirection. No razzmatazz, I am impressed. More impressed than the club. So the rumors are true...er..." he looks around at staff, as he does he is defintiely drawn to the curvey delight scoping out the bar, "So....the other rumors about your staff are...?" He isnt reaching for his gun, but his finger gets itchy.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick is in the green room area removing makeup, trying to tame his hair, and changing clothes. LOSE A TURN.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' The recognition that alights Lucifer's face when Dean actually admits to who he really is might be palpable. "It's merely the truth. Contrary to popular belief, I actually cannot tell a lie. Ever. Even white lies and truth bending put a bad taste in my mouth." He says this much and then looks the man over a moment before moving to settle in his seat once more. "Dean. I will answer your questions if you really wish me to. If you want to know the truth. But I would also ask that you understand, we have been here a long while. We do not make trouble. In fact, should trouble try and rear it's ugly head, I do my best to push it right back out the door. I'm not here to start anything, or to do anyone harm. I'm on an extended vacation from Hell, and I intend for it to stay that way." He pauses, another whiskey is served to him and then a hurricane glass with a pinky-purple liquid is also served, with a spear of fresh fruit and complete with an umbrella. Lucifer grins and then turns slightly. "Ah... my pride and joy...." He stands as Miss Sinister veers closer and then laughs. "Are you seriously wearing one of my shirts, love. Classic..." His attention then turns back to Dean for a moment. "So. Take your pick. But if you choose to hear the truth, then you are also choosing to leave me and mine alone while within this place. Understood?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister slides onto a barstool like she was well greased. "I couldn't find anything I wanted to wear, so I just grabbed what was nearest in the wardrobe. I just grabbed from the -wrong- wardrobe." She grins, 'mwahs' the air to the barman as the hurricane is served and delicately claims the straw with black painted nails. Gothika arrived and isn't leaving! "I missed the end of the set, regardless." Grey eyes sloe below lashes toward Dean and descend with exacting purpose from top to bottom and back up again. An eyebrow is raised, a look is given to Lucifer and then, abruptly, she's smiling. Such things can be contagious. But then so is a cold. "I just missed the speech too, didn't I." Is a statement of fact, not supposition.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "You did." He nods ot the newcomer. Demon? Angel? Random human? He would never guess the actual truth in a zillion years. He looks at Lucifer and says, "I mean, my world was rocked when I met vampires who werent eating people. So, I mean, hey, I am skeptical, but your honesty is disarming....metaphorically not literally of course. If I find out you guys are like...doing things I make no promises but simply for existing, Sam and I dont attack people. Thats not how we roll. That, and your club is kinda awesome." Its legit respect even if he is EXTREMELY uncomoftable. Being open minded is not impossible for him but its not his cruising speed."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Unlike a past time, Nick's ability to get out of stage makeup, get his hair tamed down, put on something with sleeves, ANNNND remove eye makeup is miraculous. It is amazing what a well seasoned performer can do appearance wise in such a short time. Well, when one is not trapped in a time loop. Either way, the turnaround is fast, and the change, reasonably effective. Nick manages to walk past a set of club goers where one had just twenty minutes earlier screamed about how much they loved Nick Drago. Not even a blink as the man strolls past. The lengthy hair had been secured, most of it hidden away under the collar of the shirt to give the illusion of a shorter style. Not perfect but combined with the power of .*Alky-hol*.- It is super effective. As he approaches the bar, Nick pauses to take note of who Lucifer's talking with. "Dean?"

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer gives a slight nod to Dean, but he addresses Sinister first. "Rest of the night should prove itself a bit interesting, my dearest. I've just been giving the usual spill to our first time guest." He explains and then he turns his attention back to Dean. "It takes all sorts in this world to keep it turning. But to answer you question. Yes. The staff here are demons in human form. Much like I am an angel in human form. They work, then they go back where they came from each night. Rinse and repeat. The dancers -are- human, so if you're eying them like candy, please continue to do so. No harm will ever come to you here, and the demons don't leave the premises. I do, on occassion, but normally it's for social settings. Like other performances of our dear Nick, or trying to help people in certain situations..." Then there is a Nick arriving, fastly finished with changing from his stage dress to normal wear. When he questions Dean's appearance, a brow lifts. "Ah...you two know each other?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Something in the inner catalogue of potential nasties that she's been shuffled through, like a deck of rather worrisome playing cards, has Miss Sinister lofting her other brow up in mild surprise. Or it could just be because of what Lucifer's saying to the man that warrants the altogether human bodylanguage. But then, the best are very good at mimicry, aren't they? "I see... well, interesting is relative, I suppose..." pause "...also relatives, sometimes." There's a sigh as she squirrels that away, smiling the contagious smile again and extending a hand, knuckles up but with the kind of positioning that suggests a shake and not a kiss, is in order. "Nathanielle," she introduces herself. "The so-called other half, other being the operative word I think." Something makes her chuckle faintly under her breath. "And you'd be Dean..." Winchester "...Oh my. Oh my my." A look is slanted over her cheekbones to Lucifer and back, "...Castiel's friend."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "Nathaniel? Another angel?" He knew Angel lore and that wasnt familiar to him, but he could ask Sam later. "And yes, Castiel and I are pals." They were family after all,s o that might explain why he seemed familiar to Lucifer. One renegade angel would likely know another. Even if Castiel wasnt full on outcast ...yet. He sipped his whiskey and nods, "Hey Nick. Very small world" he smiles, didnt see him for years and now? But given the nature of this place and McNally's its not THAT insane to meet him here."

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick nods to the question, "Yeah. Met years ago." Factoring in the general tone of the conversation so far, he figures it's ok to give a bit more information than that. "Uh actually," He pauses, "that story I told you about the time I used Lucia's Light on a vampire attacking me?" He nods to Dean, "He's the guy who distracted him long enough for me to stake him." There's a blink as Sinister mentions Castiel as being a friend. He looks to Dean curiously. "...Come to think of it I ran into him around the same period of time I ran into you....Hmm. But yeah, small world. Two nights in a row."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer laughs. "Small world indeed. Does that give me more points in your favor if you know Castiel and I are on pretty good terms?" Asking this much as he sips his whiskey and looks between everyone. A DJ hits the stage to start dropping random songs out for people to listen and enjoy with their drinks and dancers. The dance floor itself still have bodies using it, and between both the upper and lower bars, it might just be a lucrative night for the Devil. "Nathanielle is not another angel, no. Well... not technically anyway. Angel in my eyes, as it were..." Along with having angelic DNA spliced in her genetics, but that's another story entirely and not the point now right. Right. Lucifer doesn't continue either, perhaps to let Nathanielle build her own case. So his attention goes to Nick. "Another amazing performance, Nick. Payment will be remitted in the usual ways, of course."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sinister's grip is firm, not Road-house Sally firm, but definitely not as 'delicate' as she seems by looks alone. Possibly as high maintenance, but that's neither here nor there! The question did cause a giggle though. "Oh lordie, that would be amusing wouldn't it... no, no, not an angel. Except..." gesture to the devil "...what he said. I'm complicated and unusual and possibly helpful. If you're actually curious, I'll share." Listening to the by-way between Nick and Dean, she nods faintly, putting things into her own mental timeline. The latest song gets her glancing at the DJ apparently in approval, given that it has enough of a presence that it drowns out extraneous eaves being dropped. "I think the presence of Castiel might well be logical, one with the other. Now I'm remembering Constantine mentioning something, too." A pause "Aren't you... like... a better looking version of the Slayerettes? Your name /is/ familiar. It came up in conversation."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester says, "I'm just flesh and blood; no magicla powers outside of ritual. So I'd hardly call myself a slayer but Sam and I have racked up a pretty high body count. A friend of Castiel's is a friend of mine with the caveat that he's a good person so would call some of the assholes he works with friend that I call assholes.....but it sounds like he calls you actual friends whic is...not gonna lie, kinda surreal but I expect the unexpected these days." He cosnisres, "I am curious to know the truth to be honest." There is a whole zoo of things to guess from vampire to demon to ghost (none are right of course). He nods to Nick, "I do admit, the two nights in a row thing is weird....might wanna watch out for fates or who knows what....""

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick looks over to the club owner, smiling as the bartender sets a glass of dark liquid before him. He gives a nod of thanks to the barkeep before looking over to Lucifer. "Thanks. Always a pleasure." Just not for free. Wade would not let him hear the end of it if he did that. Something something setting boundaries. Something... To the comment comparing Dean's appearance to the slayers, Nick glances over to Nathanelle. Considering the form chosen to say that, it comes out much more differently than if it had been the other form saying it. He opts to take a sip of the Guinness instead of opening up the possibility of being drawn into that particular conversation. Being that he knows the Slayers as well, that seems like a dangerous topic to speak on. To the mention of Fates, Nick sets the glass down. "...I do have a tendency to end up in the wrong place at the right time a lot." He admits, "Although, I come here a lot so.. that might be more on you."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' There are many things that Nick gets to enjoy free of charge here at the club. And the club pays him to perform. But Lucifer wouldn't have it any other way at this point considering all the things they've been through. So he just smiles at Nick and lifts his whiskey in toast to the man. Topic remains on Nathanielle. Miss Sinister as she is for the night. He's not going to answer the question Dean put forth, asking for the truth behind the woman who is Lucifer's arm candy - whether male or female regardless. "Truth is a daring thing to ask for, but around us, you'll receive it." He figured that this Winchester would live up to a different reputation that he's heard about. A silver case is pulled from his inner pocket and placed on the bar for anyone to be able to reach. Though he also pulls a cigarette holder from his other inner pocket, placing a cigarette on the end and lights it with a snap of finger before offering it to Miss Sinister. Classy. He then lights a cigarette for himself, sans a holder, and one will notice that the smoke doesn't really trail...anywhere. It simply...dissipates. And there is no scent of smoke around them.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Well, Castiel is a darling with a whole confused litany of things he doesn't quite understand about a world he really wants to be a part of. As to me..." Sinister shrugs a little, glances to Nick a moment then takes the cigarette on its holder, looking for all the world like she should now be in a film noire. Even the posture assumes Femme Fatale, leaned just a little toward Lucifer as the devil remains proximal to, if not strictly behind the bar. "I used to be a human being, about two hundred years ago or thereabouts. But rather like the fancifulness of imagination that was Jekyll and Hyde, I learned how to unlock the nature of what is inside. I believe some would call me a mutant, but I've been assured I don't quite smell right. I'm a self-made woman, or whatever I want to be at the time and prodigy of my time. They're still playing catch up to the things I mastered and discovered two centuries ago." She shrugs a shoulder with a grin. "Not a vampire, or even Frankenstein's beast." Maybe she's plucking things from the surface. "Nor am I a were, or a shapeshifter, although that's not strictly accurate. I think I technically am a combination of a whole lot of things you've dealt with mister Dean Winchester, plus some of this..." she indicates Lucifer with a nod "...in more recent times. And that..." toward Nick "...as well. And I'm mildly less egotistical than Tony Stark."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester blinks at that. Well. He did ask. "Sounds interesting" he sips his whiskey, and he did ask. He can't quite handle the truth but it helps that it comes in a visually interesting package and does what he does best which is readjust. He knows al kinds of weird things are out there, but meeting someone who was all of them at once was a new one. He orders a second whiskey, "And I did ask." He shrugs and then looks to Nick, "You might be right. Lately, someone has taken an unhealthy interest, so maybe they're messing around with my destiny or something. Would be far from the weirdest thing I can imagine." He looks to Luci, "It is kinna cool you turned the whole lie thing around. Curious, when you said can't, is that a whole 'not gonna be defined by them' vibe or somehow literally unable to lie?"

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick smiles, lifting up his glass in kind, returning Lucifer's toast. Yes there is a general irony, but Nick is careful not to abuse what was given freely. He doesn't overdrink and he takes care to respect the room he uses at the hotel with a bit more respect than other patrons. Well, barring visits of teleporting closet ninjas that is. Seeing the shrug of Nathanielle shoulders, Nick chuckles. One perk of hanging out with mind readers is not really needing to find the right words. They already know. The extremely condensed story of how Sinister came to be Sinister does not get much reaction from Nick. He's gotten a variation of it before. But the comment about Tony Stark's ego does get a bit of a laugh. Thoughts of a certain trip to space to fix one of his mistakes comes to mind- Oh there was the time he got his hand stuck in a giant chimera's stomach he had to fish out... The smile that blossomed after the outburst ends up dying away as Dean discusses someone more or less trying to manipulate where he ends up. "I know that feeling" He comments. Taking the moment to take another sip of his drink .

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer is asked something at the end of other questions being answered and so he looks to Dean for a moment before giving a soft chuckle. "Something dad...God as most call Him...thought would be rather comical. I cannot, ever, tell a lie. I can skirt details. That's about it. White lies make me feel sick, bending truths gives me a headache. And yet people will lie thru the whites of their teeth and tell others the Devil made them do it." He scoffs then before giving a shrug. "Likely another reason why I live as luxurious a life as I do. I can't die. I can't be harmed with anything except a holy weapon. But all my work here is legitimate. I own all necessary licenses and permits, and I renew them regularly."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "It isn't an objectionable possibility. Lately, we've all been fighting a heaped spoonful of fate masquerading as coincidence and trying very hard to convince us that it's not machination..." Sinister sips her hurricane, smokes her cigarette, lifting her chin to give a nice view of the long swan of her neck as her head turns. The wavey ink of hair falls like a waterfall in negative over the lace on her shoulder. "Do you have a spare finger on what it might be, Dean... or are all your fingers on speed-dial, car keys and the safety of your gun?" Another sip as she asks this, eyes glittering as she watches steady. A little chin-jerk toward Lucifer. "Again, he isn't lying. Well. Except for the holy weapon thing. But I'm not about to share the /other/ weaknesses..." -- wink.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester chuckles, oddly uncomfortable at the wordplay for reasons he is unsure aobut but unflappable as always,"That's messed up man. Especially whichever of em set you up as the father of lies." He sips his drink and then looks to Nick,"Dont we all? It makes me wanna find it and beat it with a baseball bat...whatever it is." Turning back to Sinsiter after he has some time to think and process her words, he answers, "Sounds like some genuine alpha grade hoodoo alright. And while Sammy is better at reseach than me, I know how to read. And I've found the page that lets us blow up, stab or kill the thing about a third of the time." He suspects Lucifer has other weaknesses, but as a matter of courtesy, he doesnt consider it polite to rolodex metods of killing someone when you accept their hospitality. Conciously.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' If Nick is aware of what the other weakness is. He's not voicing it. But considering the proximity of certain persons to each other, does he really need to? And does anyone want that to be said out loud? Unfortunately a glass of beer can only work so long to stave off any unintentional commentary and the pint glass is getting low. When the bartender looks of his way, he gives a shake of the head. While the glass of water is being prepped instead, he glances over to Dean as he comments about whoever set up the nickname. "I could probably guess." Nick comments, "But could also be wrong. Limited exposure and all." He looks over to Sinister, thinking of a certain twin.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "I literally said it was dad's sense of humor. God did it. God made me this way. After I played pawn to everything he set forth..." Lucifer says this and then smirks. "But I suppose, in many ways, I played my part willingly. I've given the spiel before, so I won't bore the others with it. If you ever want to talk at length on subject matters that are me, Dean, we can at some other point in time." Is this Lucifer giving the Hunter an invitation back? Yes. Yes it is. So long as everything remains cordial, why would he not allow the man to come and enjoy a whiskey sour. Or whatever else he might fancy. Lucifer might even add pie to the menu. A moment later and he's on the other side of the bar, sidled close to Nathanielle's side, hand around her back to touch where he can. "You are not a weakness, my love, but harm coming to you is surely one. Don't ever let anyone convince you otherwise."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Leaning back into the presence behind her, Sinister smiles wryly, looking up and over her shoulder with a good deal more throat exposed. If there was actual threat here, that would nearly be a dare. A single painted fingertip is brought up to touch the devil's jaw. "I tend to be allergic to harm, anyway and tend to over-react when it happens. It's a sadly knee-jerk reaction..." she chuckles faintly and leans back against Lucifer, looking a the end of her cigarette idly. It's blown on, sending the ash spiralling to nowhere and the cherry to flaring. The holder is set to lips again for a long pull. "You know Dean, I'd be quite disppointed if you didn't know how to read. Literacy is -so- fundamental these days. But you know what I actually wish got taught? How to read a bloody ordinance survey map. So many people do /not/ know how to navigate without a bit of technology bleating directions. Sorry. Tangent." That last with a chuckle. "Anyway... I am not very good at Psychometry, unless impressions are strong, but I'm diabolical," she chuckles with a glance to Luci over her shoulder "...at tracing a link to the source, if you need help." She taps her head. "Kill'm with my brain."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester is about to try to defend his intelligence, which is always a learning battle, and mention how he is excellent at reading and has read many fine illustrated manuscriptes about Captain Whizbang and their valiant struggle against the Pirates of Death; but it takes a turn and this is something he has in common with Sinister, "I know, right? You take away cell phones and people get lost. On a job, I keep my phone in a faraday cage unless we agree ahead of time. Off grid is off grid, Analog is your friend and the easiest way to stay invisible..." He considers what Lucifer said about his...father. Dean has used Enochian and several monotheistic rituals to save his hyde. Hell, Castiel speaks with nothing but fondness of the big guy. Dean? Its clearly complicated. But some things are clear, "I might take you up on that." He was, at the least, curious.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick is quiet for a moment as they talk about avoiding the use of cellphones and apps. "...I prefer using a Nokia." He replies lowly. "But my work phone is a bit- more." Yet another story from the chronicles of Wade n Drago. The last of the beer is finished up and set down, hand shifting over to the glass of water.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Soon, Lucifer is crushing his finished cigarette within his hand until it is naught but ash and then nothing more than ... anything. As there seems to be nothing that falls from his hand afterwards. He looks over all those gathered and then takes a deep breath in - even though he doesn't need to breathe. The staff can take care of shutting the place down. They've done it plenty of times before. He leans in to press his nose within the exposed neck of his lover a moment before standing straight once more. "Well. It was wonderful meeting you, Dean Winchester. As much as it is a bit odd for me to even think that... since I know this meeting could have gone many different directions. I am glad you've enjoyed yourself." There's a pause. "As for me. I think it is time I took my darling Nathanielle upstairs to treat her to a little private time..." He side eyes her. "If you wish to join me. You could, also, stay down here a bit longer but I think it is time for me to retire for the evening." A final glance to Nick. "Nick. Pleasure as always. See you soon." Then he turns and begins to make his way towards the elevator going up.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Oh, no. Perfectly happy to be taken. Take me, dahhhling..." And no that didn't come out wrong, but it certainly didn't sound all that /right/ either. Let the mind wander where it will. Sinister slides off the barstool, holding a hand out rather delicately to the devil as she waves with the cigarette holder hand in a Hollywood glamour way and 'mwahs' the air. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do boys. That leaves a lot of wriggle room." Brows bob up and down at this, before she is sashaying her way to the elevator with a whiskey and smoke chuckle trailing her wake. Funny how SOME of that seems to be inside one's own skull, eh?

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester yawns and stretches, he slams down the rest of the whiskey and says, "Well, glad I didnt shoot up the place." Not because it would have resulted in his death but because it was a mistake to shoot people who werent causing problems. He might not be the most powerful person in the world, but he is among its most fearless. "Well Nick, you're welcome to come on the next job, but its a literal shit monster....if we randomly meet again, I'll definitely research the fate thing, otherwise, great concert, like the man said.' He finger guns and heads to the elevator. He looks for the down button and suspects that Sam lied about the parking garage as payback for eating the last twinkie.

:'''{{#var:9039|Nick (9039)}} has posed:''' Nick smiles to Lucifer as he makes his parting words. "Same here, Lucifer." He responds. There is no touch of irony to the voice or humor but it does seem like a genuine tone. Sinister is definitely a master of getting into one's mind and in this time around all it took were some carefully chosen words and... Well, that figure. Being that Nick was still coming down from the rocker mindset, that ends up becoming a perfect storm to bring up a momentary visual of someone else entirely before Nick's eyes widen and thoughts slam shut. The face is likely not familiar for certain prying minds. But perhaps the chin... Bah, who remembers such things anyways? The musician blinks as he glances to his water before Dean's voice draws him over to the hunter. The words get a look. "YES. I'm glad you didn't either." Nick replies, head tilting before the quasi invite is extended. "Oh... right. I need to give you my current number. I had to change mine... for rea-." But before he can do such a thing, Dean's already leaving. "-sons." On the bright side, Dean's heading in the direction Nick would need to be going. "Hey, wait up!" It's a good thing the first drink is free.
}}

16173/Plan X.

2024-04-12T12:28:09Z

PoeWolf: Logan tries to come up with a gameplan in Psylocke's absence. Rogue presents a genuine counter argument.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/08
|Location=Logan's Room (North Halls), Xavier's School
|Synopsis=Logan tries to come up with a gameplan in Psylocke's absence. Rogue presents a genuine counter argument.
|Cast of Characters=202, 16
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan stares at a white board he has in the room. From what he gathered Psylocke's predictiosn sprawled across it. Along with the prophecies she shared, Logan has a couple of the resources he knew about. His ocean blue eyes run over everything. On his personr ight now is the black and grey X-Force uniform. Honestly, the stealth suit makes him think. It may not fit when he goes on a mission. Just in this moment, it gets Logan thinking in that mentality. On the whiteboard there is something written that has nothing under it: "Reactions." Because every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Logan's doing his best to not screw with anything well beyond his understanding of things.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue steps into the room from the hallway and stops just a couple more into the room proper. Enough so she can shut the door, but she eyes the whiteboard in the room and then looks over to Logan. "What in the world are you up to now?" Asking this as she looks him over, noting the uniform he's wearing, and then she shifts to head towards the bed. Sitting on the edge, she begins working her shoes and socks off, sporting shorts and a tank top otherwise. It was a hot day out there, even for spring.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' A look goes back toward her, "Tryin' to figure out what Psylocke was palnnin', what we can do if she ain't around, n' how we adapt," Logan says honestly as he looks at the white board. "I ain't the brightest crayon in the box, but I can try," yes, Logan is trying to use his brain on this one. "It's just tryin' to read a friend's thoughts when she was hard to predict," he admits honestly.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue glances over to the board again and then shrugs her shoulders. "If she disappears, then it ain't on our shoulders to fix. Let the devil and his lover sort it all out." She offers, perhaps it's a cold thing to say but she means it. "Psylocke never really gave me much details, and it was Sinister who really roped me in, but he doesn't even need me now. So I'm not really worried about it. The world faces apocalyptic events all the time and each time someone saves the day one way or another....why bother worrying?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "When did ya becomea nihilist?" Logan asks, maybe that's the wrong word. However, she does have a point. It doesn't quite catch him offgaurd. It is a little shocking though. His gaze rests on her. "I ain't tryin' to maek it all right, just tryin' to do somethin'," he says not quite at a loss for words. However, he's trying to do his part.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue shrugs. "Tell me I'm lyin'." Saying this and then stands from the bed and walks over to the board. "Either way, you got a scientist genius with a device to find the outcome that will save us, and a literal angel who can put the plan into action. Seriously, what are we even needed for?" Then there's a sigh. "Maybe I'm being a bit bitter, but I feel like all this shit got hyped up and now suddenly it's just sort of fizzled out to letting others handle it. So why worry?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Because we can't trust the scientist and his lover," Logan says. Oh, he feels that bitter sting, too. It feels justified. Oh, Logan understands everything in full. Every littel bit Rogue feels, Logan understands it in spades. "Because what if they neutralize it n' somethin'w worse happens." Logan has his own mistrust of that duo. "They got me worried. Always. One of em' has too much power to a point, it feels like tryin' to box God. No one should have that much sway."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Do what ya feel like doin' sugah, I'll support ya. But I think I'm takin' my fingers outta the pot, personally." Rogue says this much. Which, at least a part of her, thought that would be a relieving thing for Logan to hear. He wasn't exactly supportive of her joining to begin with. Then she may have proven helpful, then all it was was she gave Sinister an idea. Does this mean she trusts them? No. But she'll save face and act like it until the time comes where she needs to put them in their place. "Well. Lucifer -did- sort of try to box God... if the bible's true and all..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "N' he started to sleep wit' someone that wants to be one. Guess people do go fer people like their mothers n' fathers," Logan says quickly. He breathes out, "I'm happy ya ain't gettin' yer hands dirty. I wouldn't have forgiven myself if more blood got on em'," hea dmits. Shaking his head a little bit. "I know ya got yer own trials from the past, but I woulda felt like I did that."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "I know. So I'm supporting you in all this... but from afar... and with a slightly bitter attitude because of how some things turned out." Rogue says this and then slips an arm around his waist. "Also, we owe each other another date night..." Adding that in for now, perhaps to maybe take Logan's mind off the white board for a moment. She also smooches his cheek and then noses his neck. "What else is on your mind?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan wears his serious face untilt he arms go areound him. Then the expression breaks. "Thinkin' bout that date now," he says and Rogue can tell that his demeanor is thawing. That kiss causes it to give way more. "Thinkin' I want to make ya smile." A hand reaches behind and tries to stroke at her cheek. Yes, Logan is thawing.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue relaxes when she's against him. He may be thawing, but she's practically melting. She leans into that stroke on her cheek and then goes to take any marker he may be holding out of his hand(s) before pushing the white board back a little. "You make me smile all the time, Logan. Believe it or not. Just been a rough few weeks... but we still got each other and that's what counts." Shifting back just a bit. "Imma have a smoke and then maybe... we can cuddle for a bit?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' The hand strokes at her face, Logan doesn't have a marker, but the white board is easily pushed back. "So, what do we do to make that better?" Loigan asks honestly. And he gives a nod. "Don't wanna lose ya either," Logan gives a soft smile as he watches her for a moment. "I'd like that." He looks at himself in the costume and sometimes he both loves, and hates, that uniform.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Which means you have about..." Rogue starts as she moves over to her smoking window. "Five minutes. To get out of that uniform and into bed..." Then there's a grin and she props the window open, sitting on the edge, lighting up her cigarette to smoke out the window. "Unless you wanna come join me for a smoke yourself... but either way that uniform needs to come off. I can almost feel how uncomfortable it makes you..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan nods about the discomfort. His gaze focuses on her and he starts to pull off the gloves. Tossing one aside, then the other. A smirk pulls at his lips. He moves to undo the boots. Taking those off, only then will he begin to join her for a smoke. "Why ya so good to me?" hea sks honestly and pulls out a cigar.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Because, through both our lifetimes, so few people have been." Rogue answers honestly and then smiles. "Also because, for some reason, I love you. And you deserve to have someone be good to ya every once in a while." THis is all she says before taking a drag off her cigarette, blowing the smoke outwards. "I mean, I could ask you the same thing, but I feel like I might get the same answers..." Still. "But I'll bite. Why ya so good to me?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan readies the cigar and strokes a stick match. "Ya deserve it. Ya deserve someone to treat ya right," he says honestly and he shrugs. "'N I'm one of the few people that can see the obvious," he shrugs a little bit. Then takes a few puffs of the cigar. A smirk pulls at his lips. "Also, ya liked it when I said 'nothin' between us 'cept air n' opportunity.'" A small chuckle comes from him.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue gives a soft laugh at the last thing Logan points out. "It was a clever thing to say, especially considering it is also true. I don't know about the whole deserving it part - at least on my end. I don't think I deserve much..." She admits this openly, flicking ashes before taking another drag off her cigarette. "I know we've had our moments, both good and bad... but I love you and I am lucky to be with someone like you."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "It was honest," he says about the words. Rogue talks about them having their moments and he has to agree. They have. "Long as ya don't mind comin' back to me," in his mind she's the one with the class and civility between them. The only time Logan shows class is in Japan and he knows it. And even then it's not all the time. Rogue has the southern hospitality down to an art.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "I always come back to you..." Rogue offers. Though in what ways she means it isn't spoken of, but she does look out the window after a moment to flick ashes and then takes another drag. She's actually not sure what else to say at this point so she just finishes her cigarette, putting it out once she's done and then slips back into the room, further moving so she can sit on the edge of the bed.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan will stop her from moving to the bed and he kisses her, deeply. It's something words cannot say. There's no restraint. However, this is not a kiss of lust, or desire. The tongue stays at bay, but Logan is putting everything he can into that kiss. Wanting her to just know how he feels in the heart.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue is caught before she can move to the bed and pulled into that kiss. A kiss that she returns with all she can muster to give. Her arms shift to lift up and wrap around his form while her head tilts just so. It's a meaningful thing, and could lead to something good or nothing at all depending...

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Feeling those arms wrap around him, Logan tries to deepen the kiss. His own body turning as they kiss. While Logan meant to go toward the bed. Apparently Rogue's kiss doesn't steal his powers, but they do rob his sense of direction. Before long Logan's leading her to the wall right next to the door. He's not stopping that kiss just because her back presses against a wall. Logan would break the kiss to whisper, "Not sorry," whether it's about the kiss or the wall, he's not going to tell.
}}

16174/The Definition of Sanity

2024-04-12T12:28:06Z

PoeWolf: Zee encounters Satana after a performance and after a very stressful wave of personal setbacks. A unique conversation leads to a most unconventional solution.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/08
|Location=A modest bar in New York City
|Synopsis=Zee encounters Satana after a performance and after a very stressful wave of personal setbacks. A unique conversation leads to a most unconventional solution.
|Cast of Characters=154, 1127
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     It's a rainy night. Not a gentle spring rain, but a moody, spring storm, punctuated with rumbles of thunder and flashes of lightning. It suits the feeling this night, as Zatanna is holding down a distant table all on her own. In front of her is some kind of fruity martini drink. It's not forgotten, exactly, but it's only half drunk. A more properly finished series of shotglasses sit near it.     As for Zee, she is perched on a high chair with a strange posture. Despite her fame, despire her looks, there's an aura of 'stay away from me' that seems to be pretty effective. A few guys may be whispering about what they'd like to do with her at the bar, but they aren't brave enough to approach.     She's dressed as if for a show. After all, she was working just hours ago. The only thing missing is her top hat. It's immediately clear that she didn't protect herself from the elements. Her hair hangs flat due to the rain that still wets the locks.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Coming in from out of the rain is a tall redhead with skin the colour of fine marble, amber eyes, wearing a red brocade Chinese gown--a cheongsam--that has been tailored to fit her like a pair of tailored gloves. Which she's also wearing. Tailored, red satin opera gloves that leave the fingertips visible and cling to her up to mid-upper arm. The slits on either side go up well past the hip, with only a single frog on each side holding them closed just below the hip, causing her endless legs to be revealed in alternation with each hip-rotating step. The endless legs clad in sheer white silk, tied at the top with a black velvet bow. "I do so adore the rain," she announces as she steps in. "It's so refreshing." Strangely, despite the lack of an umbrella or raincoat or any kind of protection she doesn't seem to be suffering from any of the effects of exposure to said beloved rain. Her hair is full of life, bouncing with her movements. Her clothing and skin are fresh and dry. If her form and clothing weren't so distracting, some might utter a thought vaguely similar to *you know, rain sticks to most people*. But sadly the audience she is performing to isn't looking for incongruities. They're looking at the sculpted clothing that somehow manages to utterly fail at keeping what's underneath out of sight in the imagination. She sweeps her eyes over the clientel, as if seeking out ... something. Amber eyes that fall on Zatanna and stop. The legs then start carrying her straight to the stage magician, ignoring her 'keep away' signs and trampling on her grass, so to speak.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     Zatanna doesn't immediately notice Satana's entrance. It's the succubus' voice that first slides across her mind. There's a momentary feeling of danger. Still, Zee doesn't raise her eyes from the table until Satana's inside her very personal bubble.     There's something wrong. In her eyes, that is. Zee is tired in a way that no stretch of hours would explain. "I see," she says without preamble, "That it may be your lucky night."     She sits up a little straighter, but she it is just habit. Her shoulders are rounded, rather defensive. She lifts her martini glass and drinks from it rather deeply. "I did not expect to encounter someone with your... presence in a place like this."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "May I sit here?" Satana asks while sliding into the stool next to Zatanna. "I caught your act," she continues, blithely ignoring the fact that she's continuing to trample on Zatanna's personal space. "It was quite impressive. I couldn't figure out a single one of your tricks." She leans in a bit and lowers her voice. "Even though I had every conceivable magic detection scry up and active." She straightens out again. "It's not often someone can confound me, so when I saw you through the glass door..." She gestures in the direction of her entrance. "...I simply had to meet you." Beat. "I do hope I'm not intruding. Were you waiting for someone?" Her eyes flick toward the drink and somehow indicate that a woman drinking alone, bedraggled especially, is somehow ... sad.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     "It seems you are," Zee replies. Her lips tug into a bit of a grin, but it lasts for just a moment. "Well, you have to understand, my most incredible tricks don't use magic at all. Just a case of misdirection, setup, and psychology. And frequently a talent for getting out of straight jackets and fitting into spaces far tighter than others imagine I could."     She either doesn't believe the scrying matters or she simply isn't bothered by it. "You had to meet me," she repeats quietly. "I wonder..." A hand darts out of sight, and a moment later she draws out cards. Sadly, they are quite ruined by water. She sighs softly. "I fear these are beyond saving. A pity, they were given to me by... hmph."     She pushes that thought away and looks intently at Satana. "I was waiting for something." Her eyes flick down in a quick study, then back up. "Perhaps it was you all along? But that depends on your intentions, now that we have met."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana chuckles at the poor state of the cards and gently takes them from Zatanna's fingers. "Oh, I don't think it's hopeless at all. Here, let me try." Putting her hands over the sodden box, she presses them together and concentrates (closing her eyes to conceal their change as she channels her Soulfire into the deck). For a few seconds steam erupts from between her hands. Then she opens her eyes (back to normal) and separates her hands, revealing ... a perfectly dry set of cards. Same brand. Same packaging. Was there some very fancy sleight of hand at work? "There you go, Ms. Zatara. Good as new." There's a sparkle of mischief in Satana's eyes as she hands the cards back. "Your stagecraft is exquisite. I'd love to see what you can do up close with those hands..."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     Zee takes the cards back and gives Satana a more curious look. "You have an advantage," she says quietly. "What is your name?" She knows Soulfire when she sees it. She knows well what she is dealing with. But tonight? She just doesn't care to start calling out spells and shields and slugging it out.     She smiles and without much thought starts putting those cards to use. But they are not playing cards. No. The first card dealt is the six of cups. "Of course it is," Zee whispers, sneering at the card. "He would be the past that lingers on my mind. Damned man. Damned men." She looks up and turns the next card, and flips it up. "The Lovers."     She meets Satana's eyes with something rather like a glare. "I suppose your little gift did that, did it?"     She settles her fingertip on the third card. "But this.. what shall this say, you think?" She pauses and breathes out, "Laever krad cigam."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "My little gift?" Satana seems genuinely puzzled. "I mean, OK, yes, my little gift dried them, but I'm not sure what else you're talking about." The invocation Zee makes does indeed reveal dark magic. It reveals to Zee's eyes that which she already knew: the creature opposite her is practically made of it. But the cards, aside from mild traces left over from the heating and thus minute traces of the demonic taint from the touch, have no dark magic about them. "Please do give me some credit, Ms. Zatara. I'm not the kind of person who would so carelessly start a war with a foe as ... formidable ... as that which sits opposite me here." Further conversation is stifled when the bartender approaches to ask for Satana's order,after having filled the orders on the queue. There's a brief flash of temper in Satana's face at being interrupted in her little game before her face turns blandly pleasant and she faces the bartender. "Damn the Weather, please," she says as her thrilling contralto slips into the ears of all present and curls up around the amygdala, purring. "But a light touch on the vermouth." She waves as she turns back to Zatanna and the bartender jerks into action, briefly looking like he's on puppet strings as he walks away before pausing, looking confused, then shaking his head to start mixing the cocktail. "Where were we?... Oh yes. I'm a lover, not a fighter. So I don't pick fights with people who might actually be able to cause me pain." Beat. "Of the not-fun variety, of course." A slight smirk quirks the corner of one side of her lips, paired with a slow wink. "But where *are* my manners? I'm Satana Hellstrom. Of the Boston Hellstroms."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     Zatana sees that her deck is unaltered. At least not by magic. Zee knows there's no chance that her deck could have been set. She shuffled it herself. Which gives her pause. She does not like this reading, clearly.     "Damn the weather, indeed," she says calmly. She is silent for a time, letting Satana work through her playful comments. In the end, Zee says, "Ms. Hellstrom, then, it is... interesting to meet you here." She focuses her attention on the succubus. As she does, she finally flips the third card.     "The two of cups," she says. It is indeed. But she's not even looking. She just knows. "Which begs me to ask, Satana, as if it were not rather clear, what is it you would like me to do for you? Is there an enemy you are having trouble with? A summoning gone wrong? Some human did horrible things to you and you just barely got out in time and are now on the run?" %

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana peers curiously at the cards. "I don't see the trick," she says, confused. "Is this one of those magic tricks for magicians? Because I'm not a stage magician. It's probably going over my head. Personally my favourite trick was the one where your head was floating around the stage separated from your body. I genuinely couldn't work out how you did that. If I did it it would leave traces I could detect, after all." She looks Zatanna up and down thoughtfully. "You, however, don't look happy. Happy people take care of themselves. Sad people sit, bedraggled and drenched, in a bar drowning their sorrows." She reaches out to touch Zatanna's shoulder. "If I may?..." she asks, and without waiting for permission she touches and mutters some syllables in a tongue that Zee recognizes, likely, as Infernal. Blazing heat infuses Zee's clothing and skin and hair, but for such a short instance that before the heat can even register it's gone, leaving a slightly warmed sensation in its wake. And perfectly dried clothing, skin, and hair. Rather like the cards. "You've confounded, Ms. Zatara, one of the premiere spellcasters in the mortal plane. You have nothing to be bedraggled about and every reason to feel pride." Did that heat linger in certain spots of her body...? "I hope you don't mind my imposition, but I couldn't stand to see you like that."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     "Well, Ms. Hellstrom, a magician can never reveal all her secrets," replies Zee. In a twinkling she makes the tarot cards vanish. "And it is not a trick, it is a reading. A tarot reading. Somehow I find it surprising that you haven't heard of it. But it is viewed by most as an innocent hobby, something to amuse one's self with. A conversation piece and no more."     A smirk curls her lips, then, "But I am not amusing myself, nor are my readings a matter of dumb chance." Her blue eyes search Satana's face in curiousity. "So there's nothing? Oh.."     That warmth flows through her and she shivers in surprise. "Oh, that was... strangely kind of you, Satana." A pause follows. A moment to think things over. A road to travel or not. Her eyes flick to the door, but soon they are back, studying the woman she is sitting with. "You can call me Zee. Did you really think I looked so sad?" She manages a smile, but it's probably unconvincing.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "Ms. Za... Zee." Satana smiles warmly, keeping the hand on the shoulder. "My entire existence, practically, is devoted to making mortals feel good. Physically. Psychologically. Sensual pleasure, as well as feeling good about themselves. I can sense a soul in need from a thousand yards." And then approach with laser focus to tempt them into eternal damnation. But Satana eschews mentioning that part as being impolitic. "So yes, believe me, you looked that sad. You're one of the finest stage magicians in the world." And again she leans in, letting her presence and her scent fill Zatanna's perceptions as she lowers her voice into a husky, but secretive, intimate level. "And I happen to know one of the best in non-stage magic as well." A brief wink and Satana straightens back up. "It would have almost broken my heart to see you in that state if I had one to break." Apparently there's no pretense anymore, not that she was particularly hiding from Zee... "But still, the tragically lonely, tragically unhappy soul calls to me. And so I came." Beat. Mischievous grin. "And after that, I dropped by." There's that salacious wink again. "You don't have to be lonely, Zee, nor unhappy. I can be your heart's desire. Whatever your heart aches for." A slight, briefly stifled giggle follows. "Or whatever your loins ache for, I can provide it."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     For the most part, Zee shows little reaction. She can neither confirm nor deny Satana's suggestions. She can, however, find the whole presentation amusing. "Well, that is quite the sales pitch, succubus," she says gently. "And you certainly do look the part. I have no doubt you could make any man or woman forget their sorrows. For a time."     She reaches for her glass, then in one smooth motion empties it. "However, my sorrows are not so simple. My heart's desire?" Zatana is amused. "Are you so very, very sure that you can do all that? What my heart aches for?"     She gestures at the table and whispers, "enacra tcartnoc." A piece of beautiful hanji paper appears in a scroll, then flattens itself. A pen lays nearby.     She repeats, "What my heart desires? What it aches for?" She laughs, now amused, with just a touch of bitterness. "I want to fall in love and to have that love returned. To have a lover who cares for me, who expresses that care sincerely, and considers me more important than work, or magic, or anything else. But let's be real, Ms. Hellstrom. That kind of love doesn't exist."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' For a moment Satana stares as Zee produces a contract--for a moment she seems ready to object that that's *her* line!--and narrows her eyes as Zee tops this off by claiming something that Satana cannot abide: the claim that she can't do something that involves human emotion. For a half-demonic entity she has, after all, genuine feelings that aren't rage and hatred. She stares at Zee a good long time. And that stare takes in everything. The body obviously...succubus does what succubus does...but also locks gaze with Zatanna, peering as if looking deep into the Homo Magi's soul. Which she probably is. Satana unconsciously wets her dry lips. "Interesting..." she says, then purses her lips to consider. "So my part of this contract is to give you a true love. What is the consideration? What do you give if..." A slight smile. "...when I deliver that? And what, if any, are the penalties if I don't?" A quick wave of her hand and the contract vanishes in a flash of flame and acrid, sulphurous smoke. Moments later it reappears in that same flash of fire and choking smoke, with many, many, many red flags of the post-it variety on it, notes added in unfamiliar text whose handwriting seems increasingly agitated. Satana glances down at it and snorts. "Legal is always fretting about things." She then turns her attention back to Zee. "I wouldn't trust this with a run-of-the-mill sister or brother," she says. "If it is acceptable to you, I will, once we come to full terms, take on the contract myself." The queen of the succubi throws down back. Hard. "And I do so look forward to the challenge..." she adds with a purr and a smile.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     Zee doesn't cross her arms, but one gets the feeling that is doing so mentally. She does not shy away from that search. As for what Satana might see there? Zee is not pulling some elaborate trick. There is her declared motive and nothing more. Well, that and a whole bunch of curiousity. Satana will no doubt be pleased to realize that yes, her charms are working on a woman who is quite heterosexual. But considering how that has gone, Zee is ready to throw out all her natural predilections.     "Oh yes, the consequences. Of course. Well if you love me and I love you, well... there is a lot I might do for you. But to sate your legal department, let's say that each month we are together I will assist you in your work, provided you target only the guilty and not the innocent. And once a year, I will direct my considerable talents to put one of your rivals in whatever place you wish me to place them." And she has the power to do it.     This makes her consider the other side. "Honestly, if you fail..." She frowns. What would be a consolation prize? What does she want? "Then you must serve me however I wish for one day a month, for as long as I live. Further, you must always act to protect me from harm." It's vague, but there's a strong sense of, well, her not really caring.     "And I am operating in the understanding that /you/ will be the one working on this with me. Or are you truly heartless and incapable of falling in love?"

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "If you would prefer another," Satana says, her voice dripping with wounded ego. "I would naturally let you select from among our available 'cubi. But I would very much prefer taking on a contract of this difficulty and complexity myself. You see, I like to take the high profile cases on instead of trusting them to underlings." She pauses and gives Zee a deep stare. "I didn't tell you all of my positions. Perhaps the one most salient here is 'Daughter of Satan'." A tight, wounded-ego smile. "This is literal, not figurative." Satana picks up the contract and muses over it, waving her hands to alter terms here and there, paying attention to some, but not all, of the red flags her legal department has highlighted. She sighs. "Always the smart ones. They're the most difficult. It would have been so easy to deliberately fail to deliver and then do what you wished for a single day before killing you, but no, you had to close that loophole." The wording and tone are strict, but Satana can't keep a pleased smile from peeking out behind her lawyer mask. Apparently, despite the complaints, she likes the challenge of a smart contract negotiator. "And darling," she adds in an aggrieved tone of voice, "I only ever target the guilty." Beat. "The innocent have souls that taste bland." She makes a face like someone eating an 'acquired taste' item for the first time. "That is my role in the Whoreson's world, after all. Eternal damnation and punishment of the guilty." She pushes the altered contract to Zee for approval. "I'm afraid it has to be signed in both your blood and mine to be binding in Hell."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     "If you passed me on I'd be insulted, daughter of Satan," replies Zatanna. She smirks, "And honestly, I added that to protect you, as well. If you failed me and then tried to attack I'm afraid I would respond poorly." The magician looks over the contract. She's done this before. A few terms are knocked out. Things that 'legal' probably was trying to slip in.     "Insulting little creatures, these lawyers of yours. No access to Shadowcrest Manor is allowed to them. You may be invited there, of course, if your heart is mine and mine is yours. Hm. You know, if you do succeed, it will be a remarkable contract. Would any other succubus even dare something this bold? To accept a contract of love? I imagine your father may not be proud of it, though." Her own father wouldn't. But that's not her problem.

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' "My father ... is not really my concern," Satana says, voice clipped. "We are not on the best of terms." It's a story as old as time. Daughter loves her father ... but hates him with a burning passion as well and rebels to piss him off. What woman hasn't had that experience for at least some part of her life? "But yes," she adds, her voice warming, "it is a remarkable contract. Another 'cubus might dare this. And of course if I order it they'd have no choice." The voice swells with demonic pride now. "But I am likely the only one who could sustain it." Because she's the only one who has ever actually loved before, though it's buried deep in her memory and paired with soul-searing emotional pain. "It will be an interesting challenge to love without a heart. This will be FUN!" And her voice on that final word is half-genuine and half-predatory. She seems to mean it. "I've observed enough people in love that I'm sure I can learn this."

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     "Mriffa ym tnesnoc."     Zatanna draws out a silver knife and slices open her left palm. The blood flows into the pen and she picks it up. This part, she need not enhance with logomancy. "I offer this signature of my free will. To find love and be loved, to be true to heart and soul, and if I should fall as I most wish, to serve the holder of my heart."     But there is more to her intent than the previous text captured. Because her love has specific meaning that even she cannot properly express. The loyalty, the protection, the forgiveness, so much more is wound into the contract. Layer upon layer of print so fine that it may just drive others mad. All things that Satana can expect, if she manages to pull off true love.     "Well, it seems that you get a sweeter deal indeed.... funny thing, promising love, don't you think? It adds so much more than we ever expect it to. The chains we yearn for."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana doesn't cast any spells or make any invocations. She just grows a long, sharp talon in place of her left hand's pinky fingernail and cuts a bloody swath across her right palm. This she then dips the pen into and signs with her left hand. The contract glows briefly in the Aetheric Realm before fixing in the contract's text and signatures with bonds which none but the 'Whoreson Himself' (as Satana would say it) can break. Satana expels her breath. "OK, this is going to be an adventure," she decides, using her talon to seal her palm closed again with what looks like it's a very painful application of fire, though it leaves no scarring in its wake. Probably just showing off. The contract replicates itself on the bar, with one copy doing the burning to Hell routine. And is that a collective, panicked groan Zatanna hears as the portal closes? "That's your copy," she says. "Now let's start this off on the right foot. I'm Satana and I'd like to buy you a drink." She waves her hand and the bartender, who'd been staying away a suspiciously long time, returns, dropping off Satana's order as well as a repeat of Zee's earlier drink. "To love..." she purrs, raising her glass to salute Zee's way.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:'''     "Elif siht yawa," murmurs Zee. Her copy races off to Shadowcrest, where it will be stored away neatly, under lock and key and genie protection. The whole treatment. She looks to her hand and sighs. "Laeh em." It seals the wound, though the blood remains.     And then, Zee perks up. She's already rather curious. She's never done a contract that didn't involve horrific deeds and blood prices. Still, she knows this one is so, so much more dangerous. And yes she's excited, even perhaps jubilant.     "My name is Zatanna, and it's wonderful to meet you, Satana. And wow, our names are so alike. That's... kind of an interesting coincidence, isn't it?"     Her drink is accepted with a pleased sigh. Granted, this will definitely push her into giggly territory, but well, she's pleased with herself.     "To love," she replies, raising her glass and winking at the succubus. "And all that it entails."

:'''{{#var:1127|Satana Hellstrom (1127)}} has posed:''' Satana smiles indulgently and downs her drink together with Zatanna. She then leans forward, resting a hand on Zee's thigh. "I have a year," she says, "according to the terms, for us to fall in love with each other." She leans closer, murmuring to invite Zee into a closer, more intimate distance. "But ... lust can happen at any time," she says. Her hand slides up. "And it's the gateway to love I'm given to understand. Shall we... open that gate?"
}}

16175/INTERLUDE: Brain melt

2024-04-12T12:28:02Z

PoeWolf: Lucifer is a social butterfly. Mister Sinister is not. Occasionally a reboot needs to happen. This one involved a pint of dutch chocolate ice-cream and a mnemonic of yesterday.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/08
|Location=Lucifer's Penthouse, Melville
|Synopsis=Lucifer is a social butterfly. Mister Sinister is not. Occasionally a reboot needs to happen. This one involved a pint of dutch chocolate ice-cream and a mnemonic of yesterday.
|Cast of Characters=231, 735
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Sometimes, it's possible to socially exhaust Nathaniel Essex. It's different when you're manipulating people. They don't really count. The emotivity isn't genuine. Building and maintaining something that's genuine is absolutely and utterly flattening after a while, to the unprepared Englishman within the depths of the Monster he created of himself. So now, in the quiet moments when the club has closed, at three thirty in the wee hours, or perhaps even later given certain clientelle..... here he is, lying on the couch with a book over his face and his forearm resting on his forehead in a greek tragedy pose. There's not even any music playing, just a soft metronome he's set on the table to tick-tick-tick. A rhythmical, hypnotic, orderly sound.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Book keeping is super fun. Especially when the books take a while to close out, and the staff need their tips, and it's tax season so he's been dealing with all of that. Quarterly submissions, making sure entertainment has gotten paid correctly. There's a lot to running a club that no one else sees, thinking it's just a life of indulgent luxury. But there it is. So he's coming up to the Penthouse after one of those late nights. It's unsure what he's going to be walking into. Sinister could be doing a number of things. Cleaning, cooking, contemplating his eyelids. Though as Lucifer steps into their home he finds the man posed as if he's been up all night studying. Though that all depends on the title of the book currently covering the man's face. Lucifer smiles softly, dims any lights that are on full, eyes the metronome ticking away but does nothing with it. He gently levitates the book off Nathaniel's face while also placing a blanket over the man to essentially tuck him in. Then, he sits in front of the fireplace, smoking on a cigarette and just letting the peace of the night carry on as long as it will.

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' Self mesmerization has its limits. The lifting of the book does not stir the Doctor. In fact, he looks a younger man than the wisdom of his years paints on his features, when genuinely mesmerized into something akin to real slumber. And we'll note, slumber and dreams that haven't projected everywhere thanks to the mind having them. But the no-thought won't last when certain aspects have been removed from the trilogy of horizontal, book over face like you used to do once upon a time, listening to the ticking of a clock. Or now, the ticking of a metronome. Clocks that tick are so yesterday, that they're pratically antiquity. Eyelashes flutter up after about five minutes. Enough time for end-of-night thoughts to be collated and at least one cigarette to be finished, at any rate. "What time is it?" the metronome is stilled with a delicate fingertip. Not with TK.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Little after three fourty-five, so close to four am..." Lucifer offers this as he turns on his ass to remain seated on the floor but facing the doctor now. "You were so cute laying there with a book over your face, lights on, metronome ticking... I didn't want to interrupt whatever was going on in that brilliant mind of yours." He adds this on with a smile. "At least everything needing done for the club is officially done now. All the books are up to date, invoices and bills paid, quarterly paperwork done. I've got to remember to renew the liquor license next month...and the bartenders have to..." he clears his throat, "technically take food service classes...but...I get that paperwork fudged." Filling the man in on his own day and finally realizes the ticking has stopped. "So, is everything alright? Did you just doze off while reading or was this a sort of resetting yourself moment?"

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Well. That's good. I'm glad that's all sorted out -- there's probably a reason I don't run things like that. I'd be anally retentive about everything. Your accountant should be quite happy. I'm happy. Yes. Very happy..." He stares a moment, adjusts where his mind is at and trails his gaze over the archangel on the floor with his cigarette and presence. "You seem calm. I..." he glances at the metronome "...I was attempting a meditation. Well. Trying to recreate the memory of mind-blank exhaustion from my days in my dungeon with my samples and theories." He chuckles drily. "Just a little overdone. Brisk off the charcoal from on top and I'll be fine."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer fishes out another cigarette, lights it, and floats it over to the good doctor. "I am calm. But I think that's just because things are done, and not a lot of totally weird shit has happened recently. It's been...peaceful. In a sense. I don't mind times like this." Then he stands and telepathically fixes two drinks at the bar while he walks to the kitchen to grab a couple pints of ice cream, spoons, and paper towels. These are brought over to the couch area where he'll motion for Nathaniel to at least lift legs so he can sit. The whiskies are delivered to the coffee table which is moved to be positioned so everything is in reach one way or another. "Did you succeed in your meditation? I hope I didn't interrupt it in any fashion by tucking you in..." He smirks, sits when he's able, and sets pints and spoons on the table as well in case one is favored over the other. Dutch Chocolate being one and Strawberry the other. "Plus, it's becoming spring. Which means the weather will be warmer and that makes me happy in many ways as well."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Yes, you're not a wintery type of person, my darling..." Legs are lifted, the socks are clean. One thing that will never be happening, unless by some month full of sundays, is Sinister having dirty socks, or unpleasant odours or... pretty much anything 'unclean' unless he's up to his eyeballs in something. Then it's a different matter. "I don't know. I think so. Nobody was hallucinating anything in the club were they? As far as I can tell, I was simply... in the blissful cocoon of black." He inhales, exhales, smells the whiskey, flexes his feet so that the arches seem altogether pronounced and props himself up with a floated over black cushion. The ice-cream is eyed with a faint half-smile. Is this an ice-cream on the couch moment? Could be. Could be. "I just am a bit burned out on being nice. For you, it's quiet and nothing weird has happened. For me, I've had to be nice for far too long, without a distraction." He laughs.

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Well... how can I help? How can I give you something to be mean at?" Oh there are likely plenty of ways, if Lucifer ever actually let Sinister know some of the issues in the club on certain (perhaps off-camera) nights. He should really let Nathaniel loose on the ne'er do wells a bit more often. That would be spectacular to watch. And he'd just play piano while letting the man have at it. Delightful. Instead of taking up a pint or a glass, Lucifer picks up a foot. Or at the very least, he places hands on a foot and rubs at various pressure points. His hands - warmer than usual touch of anyone - are warmer still as he harnesses a bit more heat so that the rub is relaxing. "I could bring up a soul in need of a good tongue lashing...or...uhm...well hell I don't know. I suppose it doesn't even need a mean streak to it eh? Just as long as you can be anything but nice..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Whereas..." began the man when the initial 'how can I help?' was uttered, the thought takes but a moment. And then there's a foot claimed and rubs began. The toes arch, then the foot curls, before relaxing into the thermo-therapy that it's receiving. There is a very slight groan, a whimper almost, for the popping of silent not-really-tense tensions by dint of a good ol' fashioned foot rub. He flops his head back, ice-cream forgotten for a moment, until he reaches a hand out to the table and places fingertips on the glass. Chilling a select area of his body down to very cold temperatures isn't a troublesome thing to do, it's just not often done. However the table makes a good cold-plate right now. "I don't even think I need to -do- anything to anything, I just..." he lifts the hand off the coffee table, waves it helplessly as rhime inches up the whiskey glasses thanks to the chill. "...Am all niced out. Socialized out, too. I don't have anything good to say and Nanny usually told me to not say anything at all, if there wasn't anything nice to say. By the by, I absolutely and utterly love you. Right now, especially so. Particularly profoundly, even." A sigh follows. "Building friendships is troublesome and exhausting."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' "Which is likely why I'm more of the social grace in our dynamic. Though I do appreciate any and all effort you give to be friendly to those in our circle." But, Lucifer does not doubt that it's exhausting for someone who usually doesn't have 'nice' in their vocabulary. The silent poppings of tensions under foot continue as he focuses on the arch and heel next. "So, maybe we'll stay in for the next couple of nights. I can always leave the staff to do it on their own, they are very good at it now. And we'll just hang out up here and be anti-social for a time while your batteries re-charge. And if you need me to leave you be for some time so you can work in your lab or do whatever it is you need to do, just let me know." Offering this much as he finishes on the one foot - unfortunately he cannot cool the foot down so it will just have to temper on its own. After a moment, he takes the other foot in hand and begins to give it the same treatment. "Or, if you really want, we could away to one of our other places for a little while. We haven't been anywhere just the two of us for a long bit. Maybe we're due some quiet time, just you and me..."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Maybe. Maybe, indeed." Red eyes close as the second foot receives some superlative treatment and he shuffles his shoulders, arches neck and back to assume a more comfortable and ever so slightly supreme position on the couch. 'tis the outer foot, so now, the devil's entirely captured by his occupation of the moment. "You are by your nature, a social butterfly, my love. Though that's an illusion to a degree, that's where it all happens, I suspect. A person on thier own, unless they're a psychopath, isn't liable to get into too much... well, no, maybe that's not the case in this day and age." He laughs at himself. "I've just reached a point, is all. It would be nice to maybe take a drive along the coast, maybe go and witness something relatively unique as an experience. Quiet time, research, whatever, whathaveyou... just I..." pause, then it just blarts out "...didn't want to go and tell people to sod off, stuff things where the sun doesn't shine, belittle stupidity and generally be a cantankerous old sod, when..." a hand is gestured, at everything. Whole lot. All the world. Here there and everywhere. "I was never very good at friends in school, either. I didn't have any."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer gives a nod. "This isn't school though. You have friends now, but being social can be very taxing for a non-social person. I get it..." He offers this much while working on that foot. Just letting his warm touch soothe away tension and the like and bring some sort of ralxing comfort at the same time. "I hope you haven't felt....forced to be social in any way. You can always let me know when you're not feeling it...as much as I cannot lie, it wouldn't be a lie if I told people you weren't feeling like company..." Then there's a chuckle. "Sometimes I forget you're older... the way you speak sometimes betrays you. Just when I think you're part of this time...you remind me you're from a bit of an older age. It's adorable." Offering this much and then he finishes with the second foot and settles himself back a bit. Only then does he bring his whiskey to himself for a drink and then looks between the two pints. "Pick a flavor...I'll have the other."

:'''{{#var:231|Sinister (231)}} has posed:''' "Ice-cream is for sharing," Sin replies, profundity abounding. So serious, he sounds! "Leastwise, it always used to be. I sometimes want to remember a simpler time -- when it was an absolute treat and you couldn't just go to the grocery store down the street and buy enough to put ANYone into a diabetic crisis." His toes curl, uncurl and flex pronate, then he groans softly to himself and swings his legs off lap, sitting upright. The strawberry is floated back to the fridge, the dutch chocolate and two spoons are brought forth, along with his cigarette, which has about half of it still smokeable. He lights a fresh two, from the one previously done and holds the second to Lucifer. "I'm a cantankerous old fart, that should've died a hundred odd years ago. But I've made a study of studying the zeitgeist, sometimes with better effect than others. The noughties left me floundering, I never did find the spirit of that decade..." a wry snort follows and he looks warm upon the lord of Hell. "One day, I shall manage to distill that power you have, to be a part of a world you've watched for so very long, Lucifer. I will covet it. And give the devil his absolute due, when I do."

:'''{{#var:735|Lucifer (735)}} has posed:''' Lucifer watches as the strawberry flavor is floated back to the kitchen and into the freezer. The chocolate stays, with two spoons, and two people cuddled together to enjoy it. Lucifer smiles. The cigarette which is lit is taken and he smiles at the whole moment as it is. "Yeah but you're my cantankerous old fart that didn't die, which makes me a lucky Devil." That last bit has Lucifer giving a chuckle. "If you really want to harness that power, you're more than welcome to try, but I rather like you in all your moments of both socialite and introverted. The latter gives me a reason to pause and spend time with myself and you...alone...which I know I can be stupid in not doing such things..." Then music starts to play, something soft and likely classical. A favored of both his and Nathaniel's. The blanket is shifted to cover both of them and the remainder of the night is spent smoking, eating ice cream and just -existing- with each other.
}}

16176/A nice day by the lake.

2024-04-12T12:22:43Z

PoeWolf: Remy and Rogue play catch up and play catch with the pooch.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/08
|Location=Breakstone Lake - Xavier's School
|Synopsis=Remy and Rogue play catch up and play catch with the pooch.
|Cast of Characters=14, 16
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' For the last few weeks it's seemed as though Winter and Spring have been fighting for custody over the planet. Today though it seems Spring is in control, so Remy is in the yard near the lake. A Well chewed on tennis ball in hand as a very excited jack bounces, his one eye locked on it. "Yah ready boy? the Cajun asks as the dogs too long tail wags so hard that it threatens to unbalance him. Then Remy throws the ball towards the mansion. The projectile screaming and pink sparks trailing it as the dog launches into motion like a rocket after it.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue is finishing one of her rounds of checking out the parameter of the mansion and a bit beyond, just to make sure things are staying safe. As she comes in for a landing, she spies Jack the one-eyed wonder chasing after a pink sparking ball, her gaze going to the one who tossed it. "You best not be throwin' those all charged up, threatenin' to blow up half the mansion, Swamp Rat." She teases as she shifts her flight pattern to head towards Gambit, landing just beside him. "How ya been, stranger?"

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Remy LeBeau chuckles slightly, "Nah just enough charge ta give it some extra distance. Ah swear dat dog a mutant wit' de amount of energy he got stored up." Indeed despite Remy sending the ball the length of two football fields, Jack already has the ball in his mouth and is triumphantly prancing back in the pair's direction. "How 'bout yahself, what been keepin' yah bust chere?" He asks curiously.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Oh just the usual end of the world scares. Charles made an appearance for a bit and then took off again without warning. Been tryin' to keep Logan sane while we wait for Scott and Jean to come off whatever sebatical they've been on." Rogue says this and then shrugs, watching as Jack does indeed begin to return with that ball in mouth. "Otherwise just...livin' the dream... as one does." A little chuckle comes from her then before she gives a stretch and a few bones pop back into place. "What about you, Remy?" Not actually using one of her 'special' names for him this once.

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' the dog seeing one of his favorite peoples for the first time changes course and drops the ball at Rogue's feet this time, crouching and waiting for her to throw the slobber covered ball for him as well. Remy shrugs a little bit, "Not'ing printable. Took on a side hustle of sorts working wit' a Private Investigator. Dats been a lil bit of fun. Ot'er den dat it's mostly been me an' Jack." he says with mild amusement. "Talked ta mah Pappa over Easter. Jus' a 'Ello Goodbye t'ing." His tone slightly meloncholy as it always is when he speaks of New Orleans.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Side hustles can be nice..." Rogue says, just as she spots Jack dropping the ball at her feet. She smiles, doesn't even mind the slobber as she picks it up and looks the ball over before using a bit of her super strength to launch the ball towards the mansion once more. As Remy mentions New Orleans, she smiles and reaches a hand over to rub his upper back a moment. "Sure that wasn't the easiest thing to do...but at least you did it." Offering this much before her hand falls back to her side and she goes through the motions to light up a cigarette, offering the pack to him in case he wants one.

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Remy LeBeau takes the ciggerette, touching the end with his fingertip to ignight it and offering to do the same with her's. "When yah pick up smokin' again chere? Aftah all de crap yah used to give me abou' kissin' a man wit' smoke breat'? He asks amused as he watches the dog belt after the ball yet again, with every bit as much enthusiasm as he had the first thirty times.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue chuckles. "Don't think I ever really quit the habit. Just found places to hide myself better and indulge. Besides, Logan smokes cigars... so cigarette breath ain't any worse than that..." Watching Jack run off, and she'll let Remy ignite her cigarette with his touch. "Besides...been a rough...well year I suppose...a lot of ups and downs. Heartbreaks and celebrations. Smokin' just helps calm the nerves."

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Remy LeBeau nods and shrugs slightly, "Fair 'nough." he says with a sigh, blowing smoke out through his nostrols. He chuckles, "Ah started cause it was an appitie suppressent. sometimes yah c'n be on a job foh hours, nevah knowing when yah next meal is comin'. He laughs a bit to himself, "Personally bout ta give up on datin' mahself. De bes' relationship wit' a woman Ah currently 'ave is yah, an' dats wit' all our baggage lump in." he looks at the sky and adds "Ah mis Riana so much sometimes..."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Oh come on. We ain't got that much baggage, do we?" Rogue asks this while taking another drag off her cigarette. "Is dating really that bad right now?" Having been off the market for a bit, she's not sure she wants the answer to that question, but it's already asked. She knows it's likely been really tough on Remy since losing Riana. Just the fact that he voices missing her...Rogue places a hand on Remy's shoulder. "You know I'm always here for ya if you need an ear or somethin', Remy. Right? Just because we ain't an item anymore doesn't mean I don't care about ya...I do..."

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Remy LeBeau shrugs a little bit. "Had a few first dates. A few one night stands. Not'ing dat ever amount to not'ing." He brings his hand up and places it over Rogue's and gives it a light squeeze. There is a fuzzy sensation, not unlike running your hand over an old TV tube as Remy's power puts up a microscopically thin barrier between their skins. "We got so much baggage dat we'd 'ave ta tip de bellboy at least a c-note." He says with a chuckle and adds, "But baggage ain't a bad t'ing chere. Dare a lot of very good memories in all dose bags.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue frowns a little. "I'm sorry, Remy. I really am. You really do deserve someone in your life..." Rogue offers this much while feeling his hand over hers on her shoulder. She looks to it, then to him, and gives him a smile. Listening to the rest of what he says about their baggage, she gives a little laugh. "Yeah. S'pose yer right. But...no...it ain't really a bad thing... just gives us a bit more to talk about sometimes. Sort through the baggage maybe one of these days..." Then she looks to see if Jack's back, turning her hand over to brush fingertips against Remy's palm.

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Jack has made it about halfway back when he sees his arch nemisis. His Professor Moriarty. His White Whale. His Perry the Platypus. A proor Red Squierll that lets him chase her then runs up a tree and leaves the poor dog barking like an idiot... which if you ask Remy he is. "Well Ah got a bottle of cheap wine an' expensive scotch back it mah place chere. Any time yah wanna stop by." He says and gives her hand a long lingering touch before letting go.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue gives a laugh in the moment of Jack's antics, but what Remy offered isn't missed by her. "You know... a glass of wine and a game of cards sounds really good right now, Rems. You got the time to entertain someone like me?" She finishes her cigarette off, and then hands it to him because he can likely charge it to ashes. "Otherwise, I can come back another time if you'd rather...wait...or somethin."

:'''{{#var:14|Remy LeBeau (14)}} has posed:''' Remy LeBeau takes both butts and gives them a flick away, both of them giving a "pop" not unlike those paper poppers people get on the Forth of July. Jack doesn't even seem to notice as he tilts his head towards the boat house. "soun' like fun ta me chere." He says as he gestures with his head towards the boat house. "Yah in luck, got a pot of Gumbo on, been goin' 'bout t'ree hours so should be juuuuust right.
}}

16178/Dark Willow: Darkness rising.

2024-04-12T12:22:35Z

PoeWolf: Dracula got a glimpse of Dark Willow. Probably more to come.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/09
|Location=Crawford Mansion, Sunnydale (TBD)
|Synopsis=Dracula got a glimpse of Dark Willow. Probably more to come.
|Cast of Characters=1308, 190
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' Flirting with disaster. Dracula wrote the book, the screenplay, and owns the patent on all rights and images within. Their last interaction didn't end well and he has given her time to either get over it or seethe in it. Whatever the case he reaches out to her and summons her with his mind. A mind that strong really shouldn't make such arrogant mistakes, but it does.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow recognizes the mind. He's been with her many times before. But, previously, she was almost frightened? No, that's not the word. Cautious. There. Cautious when she had met him. Whether by his summon, or that one time Willow used his coin to get his attention.This time? It felt a lot more equals. "So," she murmured to herself, "He summons me." And she laughed. Of course, she let him draw her to him. There was no need to show him how much she had grown.. Yet.

:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' Too arrogant to notice she isn't so awed, he merely waits knowing he is in control. He awaits her in the living area, just inside the entry way. No fire in the fireplace of course. When she arrives a servant leads her in. She might have seen the woman on television when cameras point in the Muntant Town area. She walks before Willow, leading the way and telling her,"Welcome Willow. Please enter of your own free will." That phrase is like a broken record with him. In the main room, he stands and waits. She can see he is a little more pale than usual. His pallor more death than the the false life the usually presents. Worse, he looks...hungry.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "My own free will?" That causes her to laugh. "You are telling me that if I didn't want to be here you would set me free? Well, not me. But someone." Willow was different. She had a black streak in what normally would be her witches' forelock. And her eyes were deep, dark green. Her mannerisms seemed to be.. off. No longer the awkward little girl. "Let's be honest with one another. You look like shit. And while I am grateful for your push towards Rack, I am not going be fed off of."

:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' He watches her for a time and a less than humorous smile touches his features,"Oh joy. It's the mindless and pointless pratter of the situation." he muses. His mind reaches out to graps hers hard, but he is still not aware she isn't in his grasp. He detaches from the wall, but his shadow doesn't move. "So you will not be fed from you say? Do tell how you intend to stop that since the rest of the doors are locked and barred from the outside and my servant is leaving and blocking the entrance you came in. All the windows are barred, and I haven't fed for two nights. I am hungry, my powers are at their peak, and I am not quite desperate as if that were the case you wouldn't survive."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' Willow doesn't show any fear. "Are we going to have to do this the hard way? Really. Have you forgotten what I do?" Who I am, she thinks. At this moment, she feels her power more poignantly than ever before.

:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' He continues to walk towards her. He doesn't hesitate,"Mindless replaced by posturing. Adorable. Have you forgotten what I do? That I am centuries old and I have taken slayers, witches, and demons. I nearly caused Druscilla and Darla to kill one another with my mind alone."

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "I'm not one of them." For someone who 'posturing' she sounds utterly calm. "I'm willing to bet you don't want to enter into a fight. My spells are quite painful for one such as you. Maybe I could not kill you, but I could make you wish you were." Willow grows darker, in demeanour and in her formerly red hair. At her fingers, quite calmly she began to play with lightning. Just around her fingers - in and out, as though she was flipping a coin from finger to finger.

:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' From behind her, she hears a hiss and her arms are grabbed in an under hook by the woman who did't leave. Apparently she is either a strong mutant or at least stronger than average human. "I wonder. Can you cast those spells with your hands catured?" He smiles and his eyes glow red, his fangs have descended. His face remains in the non game face form other than his eyes and fangs. He continues to walk towards her calmly.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "Maybe I can't.." Willow should be afraid. "But then again.." She flares up all around her with a fire ward, interspersed with electrictricity. "..Maybe I can't. I'm tired of this little game. It bores me."

:'''{{#var:1308|Dracula (1308)}} has posed:''' Fire! That's new. Damn boyfriend! He pauses in his advance, no desire to meet the flame with his dry, dead corpse. That's the stuff long, permanent dirt naps are made of. The woman holding her squeals and runs away. Not interested in being cooked or electrocuted. The two of them are along not. He hasn't ran, but probably should. He levels his gaze and then...he laughs. There isn't anything cheery about it. He laughs.

:'''{{#var:190|Willow Rosenberg (190)}} has posed:''' "Soon.. Soon.. Like I said. Boring. Go find something more on the weaker side to play with." For one long moment her eyes are so dark that you can't see yourself in them. It could just be the shadows in here? Maybe? Abruptly, she turns away and is gone. Once back in Harry's apartment, she shrinks down to the floor, and fights to keep her breath even. "Ohgodohgodohgod. What was I thinking of?" Though she still had the tingles of power. So much power..
}}

16180/Pictures and Rich Guys at Skylines

2024-04-12T12:22:26Z

PoeWolf: While at a photo shoot, Arthur King meets Koriand'r while the two talk amidst the chaos.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/11
|Location=Empire State Building, Midtown
|Synopsis=While at a photo shoot, Arthur King meets Koriand'r while the two talk amidst the chaos.
|Cast of Characters=10464, 24
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' It's a big shoot, on one of the many floors of the Empire State Building. An art gallery this time that had cameras setup both by the windows and the art pieces themselves to give all kinds of interesting locations. And the gallery picked happens to have a wide, open view on art itself. Everything from sculptures to paintings that could be fitted in. The shoot was rather simple. Just a lot of posing, different outfits, and a pair of rooms have been set aside for dressing areas. That there was multiple shoots going on, however, was the major problem. And sometimes there was a disagreement between photographers as to who had what setup at the time. In a word, it was a bit of chaos. Fortunately they had a small snack area on the side for when it devolved into such chaos that someone was waiting for their moment to pose or the like. One such individual was someone who was probably not a model. Arthur King was there because of an article being done on him and some contributions to the gallery. Mostly pieces from his second home of Japan here and there. Old items that he had donated or were brought over to show some cultural significance. Along with some American pieces and others around. As it was, the half-English, half-Japanese 18 year old was standing off to the side waiting in a casual looking white short sleeve shirt, slacks, dress shoes, and looking just out of place among the models and others about.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' It's a funny bit about standing out; even though she's one of the models, Kori tends to stand out. Not many girls who are 6ft 3 and have green or green eyes and organs, skin, or flaming hair.. then again, the whole not human thing tends to stand out quite a bit.      She walks over to the snack foods and grabs some bread items and, pours mustard over it and adds some peper.. not a mix most would eat and takes a big bite with relish!      She just did her set, so she's wearing a tiny jacket and a cap along with a very tiny bikini, showing off her powerful, muscled form. https://tinyurl.com/4ehmujtp

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' At the same time, Arthur happens to be there. And he can't help but stare a little at the mustard and pepper topping to the bread items. "Ah, excuse me, could you pass the pepper?" He asks. He was putting together a small sandwich from the looks. One of the finger bite sized ones. Just a touch on the dry. "Would you happen to be Starfire from the Titans?" He almost blurts out, a slight coloring to his cheeks due to obviously outfits among other things.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r She licks her plump lips and looks over towards Arthur. You swear those green or green eyes are glowing as she looks at you with those long lashes of hers. " Oh yes, I am she ". m She beams a big genuine smile before she holds out the pepper for you to grab . She seems to not mind or perhaps not care about the looking at her.. Then again, tamer eans don't have the same hangups about clothes as humans do. She beams, " Doing my shake my booty thang as my friend Gar says to earn food for Silkie."

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' The pepper is accepted and Arthur smiles. "I can see that." Arthur replies. "Ah, my apologies. My name is Arthur King. I donated a few items and well... they insisted on a few shoots." He gives a small shrug as he adds some pepper to the sandwich. "Honestly, I am not used to these even if I have them in my future supposedly." He turns to look at the chaos as he munches on the sandwich, and is so obviously trying to not look at Koriand'r herself.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r She shrugs her shoulders. The advantage of being so tall is it's easy to reach over the table to grab stuff.. that and she can also float, which she does to move over to grab something else for her nibbles! Also she can eat like a ton and never gain anything!      She taps her chin " I did not fit into this world very well, till i found friends who told me to do things I don't like every once and a while to help me get used to it.. " she smiles " it works after a while it's not as bad " She pauses a moment "Then again it can be like raven wearing pink.. some things are just bad " .

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' "Oh?" The flying has him blinking a few times. "Wise friends." Arthur has to think for a moment, then makes a face. "That would definitely be bad." "What is Silkie, if you do not mind my asking?"

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r she blinks and quickly floats right over towards you. " Oh, they are the cutest thing ever... They stay with me. Gar said it's called a pet here.. so Silkie is my pet. " She beams as she takes out her phone to show off a picture!      https://tinyurl.com/mwxtvmkb

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' The picture has Arthur blinking a few times. "Um... where did it come from? It looks... like some sort of caterpillar from this planet?" To his credit, Arthur is at least not weirded out. The sight of it has him at least looking curious about it. It's not every day one gets shown what looks like a giant caterpillar pretty much! "I travel too much to have pets, unfortunately. I do know a few that have some." He says, looking a bit sad at that one. "Mostly because of plane rules for them."

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r Grins " Oh they are a mutant murder moths that were used to take over the world.. but my Silkie won't do that now. They love me, and we freed them, " she beams      She grins " Thanks to my friend i have access to a teleporter so I'm okay.. or I can use my space ship " She beams "But it's good you donated old things.. to keep ones culture is very important because it's very easy to have it taken or lost " .

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur nods, "I see. So not unlike a tiger or other dangerous predator." The idea of a teleporter has Arthur looking at her more directly. "A teleporter? Neat. And yes... well, it is just some old relics from Japan. Things that would go into a dusty attic somewhere back there if left alone, and um... no one needed them. I think that cousin's words were 'teaching others about our history' or something like that?" He blushes a bit.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r Grins brightly and nods as she stretches a bit and looks over she's pretty sure they are done with her but she looks just to be sure.. also free food so she can't complain she's already on her 20'th plate of food. She floats and crosses her legs like she's sitting to munch.      " Sharing culture is how you grow.. my parents would tell me to interact with other races and learning thier culture makes your own richer " .

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur nods, "My grandfather always said it was best to understand one's opponent rather than trying to force them to understand you." A small smile comes to Arthur as he finishes his sandwich. "So how long are we supposed to wait around? I swear they are arguing more than trying to take pictures." He looks over, then at Koriand'r, "If they start swinging, do we place bets or try to stop it?"

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r thinks a moment " I can stop it " She says simply and grins " I already did my pictures so I don't mind are you waiitng for them? " She asks curious she is willing to help after all " They had me wear all those outfits before so now it would only be for something else or if they are inspired " she shrugs

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur sighs, "Waiting, unfortunately." He makes a slightly annoyed look, "Days like this I wish I knew a vulcan nerve pinch or something, not that I mind the company. I just prefer the wind in my hair and travelling around, really. Business and stuff? Not really my um... skills usually."

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r Thinks and then she points and BOOM she fires off a star blast that fires out the window .. of course it makes everybody stop dead and stare at her in fright.. " Some of us need to be places.. so could we hurrt please.. " She Grins " I need to go save people after all " She give sa sweet smile but it's clearly had an effect.

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' That has Arthur jumping a bit. He looks at her, backs away a step, then looks around at the others that are models. The good news? She definitely got everything back to order. And soon someone is coming up to Arthur motioning that they are ready for him. Arthur gives a smile towards Koriand'r. "Thank you." Then he's dragged away. Of course, now someone has some ideas and one of the photographers comes over, "Ms. Koriand'r, would you like to get some photos with Mr. King? You can take your pick of the outfits and poses. We think it might help promote for the gallery and his donations."

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r Smirks as she licks her lips " Sure " She beams brightly as she follows along she dosn't mind.. she never cares what outfit they ask her for.. she keeps getting yelled at though becuase she always starts stripping ot wear what they give her right thier .. she never bothers to move ot the dressing room

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' The photographer nods, then motions her over after a couple of shots. Arthur is obviously no professional model, simply moving the way they want him to so they get whatever they consider his good side. His last one is just him standing there with his hands behind his back before they add Koriand'r in. He just blinks at that one, then shrugs and looks to her to see what positions. And he's definitely trying to not even remotely blush on camera.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r beams a smile she clearly knows what she's doing putting herself this wy and that.. but all of them to help you look better.. to make you look hot using her height and alein nature to help out..giving that super hot girl can't take her eyes off you kind of vibe

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Keep her eyes off of him? It's hard for Arthur to keep looking at the camera from time to time during the shoot. By the time they are done, Arthur has somehow maintained his composure. Somehow being the key word. It's not until they say that they are done when Arthur finally loses it and he turns more than a bit red from embarassment. "Um... th-thank you." He says.

:'''{{#var:24|Koriand'r (24)}} has posed:''' Koriand'r Grins as she stands back up and chuckles " Welcome.. just doing what they told me.. hope it was not too hard for you " She beams brightly as she walks towards the clothing rack to get back into the skimpy outfit.. she absorbs solar sun so she likes to have lots of skin most of the time

:'''{{#var:10464|Arthur King (10464)}} has posed:''' Arthur smiles back, then starts to head off to get back in his own outfit. By the time she sees him again, he's headed for the door and getting ready to head for the elevator. The slacks have been traded for some jeans, he has a brown leather jacket, and a pair of sunglasses hanging from them. He's also looking at his phone as he goes.
}}

16181/the Nerds of Doom

2024-04-12T12:22:23Z

PoeWolf: Dean drives screaming away as the girls mention how messed up his mind is and discussing setting him up with Emma after trying to save them whilst the girls saved themselves

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/11
|Location=Darkvale
|Synopsis=Dean drives screaming away as the girls mention how messed up his mind is and discussing setting him up with Emma after trying to save them whilst the girls saved themselves
|Cast of Characters=306, 1702
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester is staking out three mad scientists, which is not normally his thing but of all things they've been using a combination of magic, suepr science and dark tech to stalk women, supernatural women in general. He sits in his Impala, studying them studying several girls wlaking on Campus. He is waiting for an excuse to....inform them of the error of their ways.

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' Well, whether or not the girls are supernatural isn't exactly discernable with their individual appearance. The fact that there is five of them, all identical, and actually walking in a uniformed fashion, while dressed exactly the same? It's a little strange to be sure. Quintuplets can be a thing, but it's super rare. Though if there are gonna be five girls, these five are not bad on the eyes by any stretch of the imagination. Silently, they walk the campus, conversing in their collective consciousness for none to hear.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' "I'm telling you, thats not natural" "Who cares? They're hot" "And we had an agreement...." "Hit the button coward..." They argue and slap fight but ones ends up pressing the button as a small antenna on the van goes up and emits a soft red glow. Dean takes out a Desert Eagle and checks the chamber. He is looking around for evidence they are doing something.

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' For a second, the girls all stop and look at each other, confusion ringing between them. They are no slouch to mental manipulations, so when something makes this attempt are poking at their emotions and thoughts, the girls double the efforts of their mental shields, and begin to look around. "Clearly, there are shenanigans afoot." claim's Sophie. Esme purses her lips delicately, while Celeste speaks in place for her, "We need to-- Hm?" Celeste stops her statement early, as Phoebe is eyeballing the vehicle with the red glow to the antenna. "There." Phoebe points out, and the girl make their way toward the black car, not stopping till they are at Dean's window. One girl reaching to knock, "Excuse us." they say in unison. "What is that?" pointing to the antenna.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester is about to get out and blinks, rolling down the window. He can see why they felt she was fair game. He wonders if someone is turning these girls into well...whoever she is, but they could choose worse. He blinks and shrugs, "Um....three losers playing super villain. Are you feeling...odd...in anyway?" He moves the gun vaguely out of sight. The three idiots continue to fight inside of the van as the red glow pulses from the antenna.

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' "No." the girls state plainly. It's the type of no that is given from girls like them when someone undesirable asks them to a dance. "What do you mean odd?" Esme wrests control from the hive to be the one to speak, "Are you doing something creepy?" asks Celeste, tilting her head to one side. "They're probably doing it in there!" Esme tosses up her hands with her exclamation. "Ewww! In broad daylight? Wait..." all five of them speak at once, "Are you all doing it in there? Is that thing there to conceal your actions? That's kinda gross!"

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' "I'm not. Thos guys likely are, and I'm looking for an excuse to beat the ever loving crap out of them." He chuckles at the response and smiles, "Though I may not have to..." The Nerds of Doom are sort of clueless and the fight has moved to the back of the van, but one finally stops and looks out the window and whispers, "Guys....they think we are..." The other sstop, "Doing what?" Whispers "Oh fuck!"

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' Because Miss Frost mentioned to them that reading minds without permission is rude. The Cuckoos do their best to refrain from such actions, yet when the need arises... kinda like it does now... the five of them do more than their fair share of invasion as the Cuckoos focus their telepathic powers to reach out and reach INTO the minds of the three trouble makers. Telepathic power swells, leaving a staticy buzz about the air with no source of origin. "They're perverts!" accuses Esme, pointing over towards their vehicle. "They're using scientific methods to subvert young girls into lascivious acts!" claim's Irma, "Ich, disgusting!" Celeste turns up her nose, dictating her total repulsion. Then eerily, one after the other, they turn to each other in sequence, each one individually stating, "What should we do?" sounding like an echo that repeats 4 times. "What would Miss Frost do?" they all ask each other. And then go back to staring at the pervs. Their eyes glowing an icy blue as they reach to seize control of their minds, in order to make them jump out of the vehicle and scream to the campus that they are shameless perverts, and promptly start to make out with each other to cause a scene, and likely get them arrested.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' The three of them do this. They immediately open the door and begin babbling their crimes to any all that will here. One of them also confessing to his darkest thoughts which makes the other two uncomfortable. Not only they do, they seek out people with phones and make sure their thoughts are caught so others can hear and capture as well. They run off, leaving the van running. Dean, unsure if the girls are affected or not, but taking no chances, looks around, and sends a silenced shot to the antenna, making the glow go out. However, the telepathy triggers a familiarity and he has a strong desire to hastily leave. But he is also not going to leave the girls if they are in trouble. So he asks, "You....five alright?

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' Once the lesson has been taught, and the whole campus is alerted to their display of debauchery, "Bare us a moment." All five girls say, and then they leave Dean in order to walk over and break out their phones, pointing it at the three nerds, and Popping on record, while releasing their minds the Cuckoo's hold, "You guys are repulsive!" Irma sneers, shaking her head and letting her blonde hair bounce along with the motion. "You have no shame in the worst ways!" comes Celeste to back up, "Haven't you ever heard of the Me Too movement?" Phoebe all but spits in their general direction. But she doesn't actually do such a thing, because she's better than that. "Your mothers would be ashamed of you all!" Sophie points a finger at each of them, "We should leave you babbling and drooling in the street!" Esme narrows her eyes, "Get outta here before we do something you'll regret!" all the girls in unison shout before the three guys take off. Once satisfied, they put their phones away and return to Dean, "Problem solved," they say, "Creeps like that are nothing to us." Esme says, with Celeste finishing the thought, "And barely worth our time."

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester is intimidated to be sure, his eyes wide. It takes a LOT to intimidate Dean, even Emma didnt REALLY intimidate him but five times that number.....well. He takes a deep breath, shoves down the discomfort and smiles that charming smile he does so well and DOES mean it when he says, "Glad you ladies are fine." He considers, curious, truly curious to ask if they are natural or not, but even if not rude, he isnt sure he wants to know the answer.

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' "His name is Dean." Irma looks over at her sisters, "We know that Irma!" the other four swiftly whip their head at the sister who spoke 'out of hive', childing her instantly, "And he knows Miss Frost." Irma remarks sheepishly, paying no mind to the other 4, and often wanting her turn to be in control, "Irma!" The four of them do it again, barking out at their sis to fall in line. "He's actually pretty hot, to be honest." Sophie, the most romantic of the bunch eyeballs Dean. Celeste looks at the rest of them, emoting surprise in her face, "Oh! Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" she asks, "Of course we are, Celeste! That's how it works!" Esme scoffs. Again, they look amongst each other, "We should hook him up with Miss Frost!" they exclaim all at once.

:'''{{#var:306|Dean Winchester (306)}} has posed:''' Dean Winchester's mind does loopdyloops. Its chaotic at the best of times and he begins thinking of math problems, then baseball, then dad puppies but the images that betray him in the chaos are unwanted but definitely not appropriate to be thinking around girls 10 years his age who can hear him think. Those thoughts are shot (in his mind) followed by replacement by Jessica Rabbit and Elmer Fudd faling down a canyon. Outwardly, of course, he is cool as a cuccumber, and smiles, "I appreciate the flattery girls, but I think your..." Mom? Tissue Donor? Big Sister? Friend? Alternate Reality version of older you? "associate made clear to me last time that we have different...styles of who we associate with. Not a fan of vampires, even if she is moving to have their numbers in the club reduced."

:'''{{#var:1702|Stepford Cuckoos (1702)}} has posed:''' "He actually thinks that works." The sisters all lift a single brow upon receiving the thoughts that Dean is using to try and mask himself from their probings. "There are five of us, we can easily sort through that." Irma nods to the group. It's unnerving they way they converse with each other, switching from one to the other, distinguished by their names alone, since they look and sound identical. "He's not a telepath. He doesn't understand." Esme shakes her head as if she felt sorry for him. But Dean makes them stop talking about him like he isn't their by addressing them, "We know." the quintuplets all nod, "Your mind is a mess at best." says Esme, "And at worst, not unlike Swiss cheese." says Celeste, "Metaphorically speaking." Irma adds.
}}

16185/Play Stupid Games...Win Stupid Prizes...or Injuries

2024-04-12T12:22:16Z

PoeWolf: It didn't go quite according to Rogue's plan, but it actually went a bit better.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/04/12
|Location=Danger Room - X-Men Base
|Synopsis=It didn't go quite according to Rogue's plan, but it actually went a bit better.
|Cast of Characters=16, 202
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' The Danger Room is not a toy! One could almost hear those words in Cyclops' voice as Rogue messes with some of the setting parameters in the control room. She's told no one that she's here, often enjoying a training session or two on her own. Especially when there's a bit on her mind that she's trying to cleanse herself of. After she's done with fiddling around on parameter settings, she exits the control room into the main domed area of the Danger Room and gives a long stretch. She's dressed in her X-Men uniform, that one piece suit of yellow trimmed in green, yellow boots and gloves as well. Her hair has been pulled back into a tight ponytail and she gives a little smirk as she speaks, "Load Rogue 23, code XFP98..." she speaks and then the system responds. "Loading Rogue 23. Warning : Danger Protocols have been Disabled. Physical Harm may come to Occupants." "Yeah yeah. Let's just go already..." Saying this as she hunkers down a bit waiting for the program to start.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan managed to slips into the program at the last second. He knows something is on her mind. It's why he tailed her. Dressed in the yellow and blue outfit, he slips on the mask. Ocean blue eyes look out of the mask. The blue gloves, boots and similar. Splashes of blue run down the sides with yellow stripes and blue ones at the shoulder. Looking about the program, he waits to see what dangers the room can hold. This is going to be quite a task, Logan knows that much.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue has a few programs that she's managed to make which not many know about. This one seems to be one of them. Because it's not Sentinels that suddenly appear, or Juggy, or even Magneto, Mystique, or any other fiend they've gone against before. No, what steps out of the shadows for Rogue to face...is Rogue. The two lock eyes, and the real Rogue grins, digging her heels in just a bit before she takes off running towards...herself. The two lock arms, throwing one over the other until they both seem to throw themselves away from each other. One slamming into a random car, the other into a building. "Ugh...damn. I forget I pack one helluva punch..." Is muttered as she stands up and dusts herself off.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "I've known 'bout fightin' yer demons, question is, why are you fightin'?" Logan asks as he comes out of the shadows, after the duo toss themselves. Logan has a program named "Jimmy." It's very similar, but less of a reflection and more of a distorted one. Things he can guess, surmise and put puzzle pieces togheter thanks to the computers here. Logan will look between them just unsure how this would go since he's now in the program, so to speak.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Cause fightin's better'n going out and doing stupid things." Rogue says this much as she wipes a little blood off her nose and squares up with the other Rogue for a moment. Though the other Rogue looks to Loga, then back, then to Logan again. Seems like the programmed Rogue doesn't know which to target now and so it's pausing. So, the real Rogue picks up a nearby trash can and hurls it at the other to knock her onto her back again. Then she turns to Logan. "How the hell did you even know I was here?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan smirks, "I've been a spy couple of times, I know how to tail someone n' these boots are quieter," part of the reason he wears them. Those cowboy boots anounce his presence. People don't realize he can actually sneak about. "And what stupid things would ya do?" Logan rushes toward "Rogue."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Go pick an actual fight in Mutant Town? Drown myself in a bottle of whiskey..." Rogue answers just as Logan is rushing Anna Marie. She jumps into the air and flies after him, stopping just short to see what happens. Anna Marie having already tossed the trash can off herself and stood back up just to see Logan charging at her. She hunkers down, getting ready to be pommeled but at the last minute she'll try to toss Logan into the air. Adamantium skeleton and all.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Why the booze?" Logan says and he rushes forward and at the last moment tries to pivot and side step. He's figuring Rogue would try an uppercut or something like it. So, the hope is to go to the side and get an exposed ribcage something like that. It wouldn't stop Anna, but it would hurt and maybe slow down.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' This isn't going as Rogue had it planned. She wanted to fight herself, to beat herself to a bloody pulp and then spend a day or two in the infirmary getting healed up. Now Logan's here and asking questions she doesn't want to answer. "Why not booze? Cause it's the most legal drug I can do and not get in trouble." Watching as Logan pivots and catches Anna Marie with that side punch. She just sighs out and says, "Pause Program." To which everything sort of comes to a stand still. "What's it matter to you anyhow?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Catching Anna on the side makes him smile inwardly for a moment. Then everything comes to ahead before PAUSE. Not the first time the Danger room stilled itself in his presnece. Nor would it be the last. Logan turns completely unphased by the paused scenario. "Because yer the one thing I care 'bout most on this rock. I could tell something was eatin' at ya. Even now yer avoidin' the questions or givin' simple stuff,"

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "I ain't avoidin' anything. I just..." Rogue seems to catch herself before speaking any further. There's a breath and then she sighs out. "I dunno what's wrong. I really don't. Seems like things were picking up a bit, we had somethin' to do...and then all of a sudden it just fizzled out. Like a lot of things have been doing lately." She shifts to walk towards Logan. "If you're worried it's got anything to do with you or us, I promise it doesn't. I just feel...stuck. But more stuck like...there's nothing going on." She pauses right in front of him. "I prolly ain't makin' much sense..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan's quiet for a few moments taking it all in. "Ya feel useless, stuck n' like ya can't do anythin'," he says to her then chuckles a little bit. "Hit me. Try n' hit me," he says and gets in a ready stance. "I can take a punch n' can heal. Yer skins pretty tough so I can bash on it a bit. Hit me," he says again. "Well, try," he says to her.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "I think the safety parameters are still off...even if the program is paused..." Which, Rogue then realizes is likely why Logan said he could heal and she's got pretty tough skin. Still, she stands there for a good few seconds, perhaps contemplating if she should or shouldn't actually try and hit him. Then, suddenly, a balled fist comes flying at Logan's cheek. A cheap shot, sure, but she figures it's one he won't quite see coming.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan nods about the safety parameters. Rogue's thinking and he thinsk she'll turn it down when: Sucker Punch. The force knocks him back a bit. Spitting out blood, Logan smirks with a chuckle as he gets in a ready stands. "First one's free," he says giving her credit. "Gotta earn the rest," and he's not going to make it easy on Rogue.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue grins. Maybe this is something she needed. Just to get out a sort of itch for violence. She's not really a violent person but sometimes... "Yer on..." And she rushes towards him, but then thinks twice and at the last minute she jumps and flips over him to land behind. From there, she'll try to get a kick out against his back if she's manage to keep him off his game.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "What does winner get?" Logan asks and Rogue rushes toward him. He's expecting this to go different. That jump he fllows, she'll land, but his elow goes toward her face as the boot goes to his back. They might tag each other on this one. Rogue will learn first hand that Logan hits hard. Thanks to the metal in his body, itadds weight and impact to his strikes, not just his fists.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue likely manages a bit of a tap to Logan's form, but she does take that shot to the face which actually has her stumbling back a bit. She spits out a little blood herself and then touches her lips to find that's where she's bleeding from. "I dunno...another point on the date bet?" She says with a smirk and then watches him a moment, likely trying to find some way she can get him without getting it back. So it'll be a moment before she moves to strike again - perhaps even letting him make the move this time.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Fair enough," Logan says witha smirk. Then that's when rogue goes in again. Logan is going to go for a specific target. Whens he goes in he goes low, trying to strike at one of her knees -hard-. Rogue charges and pushes off with those knees. So, he wants to take o ut one of her wheels. See what happens when she can't lead into those charges and flights.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue notes him going low, but also knows he's close so she'll have to think fast. Side stepping a bit so that the bull-charging doesn't go quite as planned and then she'll punch out to strike him between the shoulder blades on his upper back. This should knock the wind out of him a bit if she hits hard enough and in the right spot. "Do better, Old Man..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan takes the shot int he shoulder blades and he's knocked back a bit. Breathing hard. Smirking, "First time ya ever told me that. Usually it's, 'Keep goin' old man,' or 'You did it right, old man.'" Logan's back screams at him. and she'll hear the bones crack and crunch into place. They both know Logan wants to go in for the knees. So, Logan thinks differently for a bit. Rushing forward Logan looks like he's going down low, but jumps and kicks right at the shoulder. He's going to have to move upon landing. He wants to make those arms hurt like he would the leg. So, Logan's going to pick at a new body part. Soemthing to distract her thoughts away from the real target.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "That's because usually we're doin' somethin' a bit different, Old Man..." Rogue says this with a laugh and then watches as he shifts his back and those bones crack and crunch back into place. Oh that actually makes her wince even if it likely only but barely phased him. So when he's rushing her again, seeming to be repeating the same trick, she'll actually try to move to avoid her legs getting hit, but it's her arm that takes a beating. Right at the shoulder, which makes a sort of popping sound and Rogue screams out in pain, going down to her knees.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "True," Logan would get out before that jump. Then he hears that pop and sees Rogue go down. Since this is a friendly fight, he just gets himself in a stance getting readyf or her to come at her. "Age n' trickery will win each time darlin'," he goads a little bit. He knows this may hurt her. However, he's hoping that taunt puts her head back i in the game. Plus, it would make him feel better. Knowing that his shot didn't end the battle.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Hang on...I think you popped my shoulder out of socket..." Rogue admits this, though she doesn't want it to be the end of the battle...she also knows she can't really do anything with one arm down. Though she sees him in a stance and grins at that taunt, it's a bit of a pained grin as she tries to move her right arm to pop her shoulder back into place.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan gets out of the stance and he nods. "Computer. End Anna Marie part of program. Gimme an unbreakable tree." He nods to the tree and begins, "Here's a trick. It'll hurt, but it works quick," and Logan goes through the motions. Showing Rogue how to foreable knock the shoulder back into place. "Sometimes the healin' factor ain't as quick as I like."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue nods and stands up. It's quite obvious this isn't a ruse to get him close so she can get the hurt on him. Following him to that tree and watching the motions he does, she'll mimic them. Once, twice, the third time there's another pop and Rogue cries out once before breathing out a few times in some sort of relief. "Oh fuck...that was smart... I think you win. I don't stand a chance against your healing power or your skeleton..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan looks down at her and he nods. "Well, ya don't know how to fight me. Go fer the air supply next time. I can't heal lack of oxygen," Logan looks at her. "People think that healin' factor is instant. It ain't. It's like a resource that never goes down to zero. A single cut, goes quick. Several, take a little bit, 'cause the resource becomes divided. Poisons. n' toxins would do ya wonders if ya wanna play really dirty," and then he holds out a hand for her. "Next time go fer my shoulder, knock it out and then try n' get my neck."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue smirks. "Giving me tips on how to beat you. That may not fair well for you in the future.." She jokes and then takes his hand, pulling him in for a hug. She winces a bit cause her shoulder's gonna be sore, but hugs him tight never the less. "I love you, Logan. Thanks for putting up with me and my crazy moods..."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Maybe. Ya still got work to do to get there," Logan holds her tightly to him. Rubbing her back and he nods. "I love ya, too. Always. Not a problem," and he nods to the door. "We can ice our wounds somewhere n' just rmeember. Next time I got a Glassgow Kiss wit' yer name on it fer that sucker punch," he smirks remembering that punch. Honestly, Rogue looked very attractive after that. "We gotta do it again soon." He's going to leave it, a little more nebulous.

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' Rogue lets out a chuckle and nods. "Alright. Let's go ice our wounds. I know a spot not too far from here. Hot tub and everything." There's likely something like that in the mansion somewhere which is where she will lead them once they're out of the room. It's also likely that icing wounds and relaxing in hot water won't be the only thing that happens between them for the rest of the evening.
}}

15122/Robot Presentation

2024-03-29T22:00:48Z

PoeWolf: Niiki and Tim and Robots and Stuff.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/05/23
|Location=Nikki's House - Garage
|Synopsis=Niiki and Tim and Robots and Stuff.
|Cast of Characters=9997, 54
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' It is no secret that Nikki does not have a vehicle, and that some of the final touches for the prototype were being done at her house. So, there comes a day when a very excited Nikki sends Tim a text along the lines of <Nikki did it! Tim should come see!>.

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake will text back and forth with her. He asks a few details, and decides he should bring one of the companies vans. He also makes sure to grab a small drone that can record things texting via voice messages "Would she be ok if he recorded her showing him the project.

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki replies back that she has no issue with him recording it, figuring he'd have to since the prototype technically belongs to the company. Or at least has proprietary company technology within it. Then she messages that she's going to get it all rightly set up and will see him when he gets to the house. Then she does just that. It's all guts at the moment, which likely makes it look super weird in some ways. (Think C3PO from Phantom Menace) but with spots where she could put in true facial features like that of a human - once the guts are covered.

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake comes walking into the room to see the robot, and offers her a smile and says "So, this is him/her?" He asks looking it over. Tim has not turned on the drone yet, looking it over as well as the room itself a moment before he does.

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki beams a smile and then nods her head. "Yep! Only Nikki decided that Kookie was too...erm...unprofessional...so she's changed it to being called VAS. Or Voice Activated Support..." Then she moves and flips a switch in the back, little lights come on and the head turns left and right, up and down. "Hello. I am. VAS." Nikki smiles and then gestures towards Tim. "Introduce himself to it."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods and does turn on the drone as she turns it on and says "Hello Vas, I am Tim Drake, it is good to meet you." He offers standing back and watching closely.

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Vas, who currently can't seem to see anything, tilts it's head towards Tim's voice. "Hello, Tim. Drake. It is good to meet you, too. Is there something I can help you with?" Nikki is just /beaming/ with joy. "Hey Vas. Can you hand Tim a glass of water?" Which, there is already one on the table. Vas turns and walks towards said table, picks up the water and then turns around and holds the glass out. "Vas can't see anything yet, so Tim's gotta take it from it but...isn't it cool?!"

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods and walks over to take the glass, and says "So, you have the basic layout of the room programed into her, but will need to get working opticals?" HE hmms and says "It is cool, is the sight a coding or compenant issue?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' "Layering, more like it. Nikki wanted Tim to see the basics and it needs to go to the facility so Nikki can fit it properly with skin." Nikki uses air quotes around skin. "But it can essentially do most basic tasks and comprehends the entire english and spanish languages. Other translations could be made available if needed but figured go with the most popular ones, yeah?"

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "May want to add Mandrian just to be on the safe side." He offers, and says "I did bring the truck so if you want to take it this evening we can. What type of skin are you considering?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki nods and then smirks. "I could do that. I've got a whole lot of languages I can program. Just started with those two." Then she glances to the truck before looking back and tossing a few holotapes into a bag of other goodies. "We can certainly do that. Take it back I mean." Then she shrugs. "As far as skin goes...I'm not sure. I figure trying to do something flesh-mimicking would be a little too weird, but I don't know if metal would be clunky."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods, and says "We do want to avoid the uncanny valley effect if possible, but we also don't want them looking to construction yard looking as well." He will look to het and says "what do you need me to get?"

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki nods a little. "It'll be nice to find a decent balance. I have an idea, but I would need my station to run some tests." She says this much and then titls her head. "What do you mean? Like to take with us? Uhm...Vas can get in herself...and then I can shut her down... I think I've got everything... Unless you meant something else."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake says, "Well, I did not know if you wanted any of your specific tools or needed to load a support bay or something for charging Vas in."

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki pats her bag. "All of that's in here believe it or not. I think you'll be pleased to know that Vas doesn't need a huge charging station... built in charging port and power supply that can be plugged into a wall socket. Once it's all charged up, Vas can run for a solid seventy-two hours non-stop, and upwards to almost twice that if shut down nightly or when not in use." Nikki beams again.

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods his head and will lead her and Vas out to the van. He opens the door and lets Nikki get the robot in, to see how well it does. He does look to see if her smaller companion will be joining them

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki gets Vas in the van, to which there's minimal assistance needed and Nikki makes a mental note of that before saying, "I should look into the fluidity of Vas' leg sockets a bit more. Seems to be stiff in a few problematic areas." This might be said for Tim's sake to know, or for the recording's sake. Or both. Squishy rolls up to the van and then...Nikki smiles and helps the littler one in. "Alright. Alright. You can come this time."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake nods a bit and says "Make sure both Vas and Squishy are buckled in." He says trusting her to make sure she is but wanting to make sure both robots are secure before they head out towards the tech lab

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki secures both the bots, and also makes sure to turn Vas off and conserve the energy it has for the time being. Then she moves to the passenger seat and buckles herself in as well. "Thanks for coming by and all... I really appreciate it."

:'''{{#var:54|Tim Drake (54)}} has posed:''' Tim Drake looks over and offers a smile "Well 1 your my friend, and 2 your working on a project that not only is for the company but will help a lot of people, I am glad I could help.

:'''{{#var:9997|Nikki (9997)}} has posed:''' Nikki smiles again before looking out the window while they travel. "That's really my goal in the end. Helping people. Being with WayneTech has made that an even more achieveable goal. Meeting you just became a little bonus." Saying that much before likely going quiet for most the ride.
}}

15811/The Heroes and their Coffee

2024-03-29T22:00:20Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/11/15 |Location=The Coffee Bean - Manhattan |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=86, 1120 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' The Coffee Bean was a quaint little shop in Manhattan. The lunch rush was just getting over with, though many had found themselves peacefully enjoying their food from the cafe portion of the coffee shop. Simple conversations echo into the empty space, questioning whe..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/11/15
|Location=The Coffee Bean - Manhattan
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=86, 1120
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' The Coffee Bean was a quaint little shop in Manhattan. The lunch rush was just getting over with, though many had found themselves peacefully enjoying their food from the cafe portion of the coffee shop. Simple conversations echo into the empty space, questioning whether or night they might look up and see Superman or Wonder Woman. They do get a hero today, just not the one they think and certainly not looking like a hero. Having just finished parking his truck, Markus Milton - Hyperion - steps into the store and walks towards the counter. Lacking cape and tights, he wears a red flannel shirt in addition to work pants and simple boots. He wears a 'New York Yankees' hat on his head to cover his auburn hair. "Can I have a creme brulee latte please? Extra shots of espresso with it please?" Order placed, the massive man now has to try and find a place to sit...

:'''{{#var:1120|Caitlin Fairchild (1120)}} has posed:''' Caitlin Fairchild is coming from Empire State University, on her way back to her rented apartment in the city. She's wearing a cream colored sweater and a pair of green tights. She cuts quite a figure, given that she's astoundingly tall and muscular, more than a foot taller than any other woman in the place. She has a pair of sunglasses pushed up on her head and a pair of earbuds in, the soft sound of a lecture on quantum physics from Reed Richards going in her ear. It's an old lecture, but one of her favorites. She's absent-minded enough that she bumps lightly into Hyperion's back. Most men would go sprawling from even that light contact, given her power, but Hyperion stays steady. Caitlin's eyebrows go up. "Sorry, was a little distrated," she admits, pulling out her earbuds and offering him a hand as she peers. Something familiar about him. She does know most of the superheroes, "Oh, uh, caramel macchiato, iced, with cinnamon added?" she says. "I know, it's almost ice cream," she admits.

:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' It looks like Mark had found a spot when suddenly there's a *bump* coming from behind him! Caitlin was /tall/ and so was Mark. That being said...he meets her eyes plainly, his eyes widening just a little bit from the raw beauty she possessed, to such a point that it must be genetic alteration or some kind of supernatural method. "Oh it's uhm...-" Despite looking tough, he was a little shy. "Guess I'm just a little daydreamy. Sorry about that, was in my own little world too. You alright?" Because a normal person probably would've knocked their own shoulder out of socket. A hand offered is a hand taken. "Hi." He gives it an awkward shake before it pauses. "Oh you weren't-" He clears his throat and backs up to let her order. He doesn't know her from Eve. Who is she? "I'm Mark." He introduces himself awkwardly after she orders. "And it's a good order. What's wrong with ice cream coffee?"

:'''{{#var:1120|Caitlin Fairchild (1120)}} has posed:''' Caitlin Fairchild smiles, "Caitlin Fairchild," she says. "I'm a professor over at the University and...I'm in the...in the Justice League and a few...a few other superhero teams, I actually kind of am not sure how many I'm actively in right now, because sometimes they shut down unexpectedly and they don't even really tell me and i've got so much going on that I forget to check in. I need to call Alpha Flight sometime," she mutters. "Darn Canadians, they're so polite, but they really can nudge me if I'm needed." "Oh, sorry. Yes. Hi, Mark. And nothing, except there's an innate cultural prejudice bias towards strong or black coffee, as a signifier of strength, often gendered. Yet, knowing this, I remained instinctively defensive about my oversweetened drink. Touche'. Er...hi." "You seem, uh, pretty strong."

:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' "Nice to meet you Caitlin Fairchild." Mark seems to retrieve his coffee as she makes mention she's a professor. "What do you teach if I may ask, Professor?" then she's casually dropping the JLA bomb. "Woah. Like with Superman, Batman and the gang?" He asks her. "Explains the bumping thing...normally it's not that clean. If you want though, I can give my friends at Alpha Flight a ring and tell them you're interested. I'm sure you're needed." He shrugs. "They're just bad at calling. I would know." Mark casually drops he's a hero too, made known when he notices his coffee is a little on the cold side. His eyes suddenly glow a brilliant orange hue and the coffee starts stealing before he takes that initial sip. "Mmm. Much better." He looks at her coffee and he just can't help but smile at her. "Well, can't doubt that. But if you ask me, I'd fight someone over a spilled sweet drink." He clears his throat. "You're strong too." He meets her eyes. "And gorgeous." He looks surprised that he even said that and he immediately thumbs towards the corner booth he spotted. "Do you want to maybe...sit together?"

:'''{{#var:1120|Caitlin Fairchild (1120)}} has posed:''' Caitlin Fairchild nods, "My body wasn't always like this. I, uh, sprouted a bit when my powers activated. Most of the time, I'm used to it, but if I let my mind drift, I think I still default back to being a little teenager in my head," she says. She flushes a bit at the compliment, "Uh, gosh, thanks," she says, tucking some red hair behind her ear, "Uh, sure, lemme just," she says, waving her charge card vaguely in the direction of the reader, but thankfully the system here is pretty advanced - and very used to serving Caitlin. She's a regular in semester. "I teach physics, applied and theoretical, although I'm teaching a quantum theory class this semester. I dabble in a lot of areas, though, I've had kind of a crazy life. It's better than most forms of post-graduate work, in my opinion. But I did that, too.

:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' "Oh? You didn't always-" Hyperion gestures to her rather modelesque figure, but it makes sense if she got the looks as a bonus when her powers. "That makes sense. I've...well, always had my powers. Even as a baby. I just had a weird upbringing, but the Canadian Government kiiinda lied to me my whole life until I tried normal out for a change." He shared a bit about himself in exchange for Caitlin being an open book. He just can't stop looking at those eyes. Her red hair behind an ear reveals more than words - at least in his assumptions - and he chuckles nervously. "I..made it weird, didn't I?" He's horribly awkward! Though he nods as she admits she has to pay for the service. "Oh of course." He waits patiently for her, being in no rush to run from her company. "Physics? Wow. That's pretty amazing." Mark tells her, tilting his head. "What kind of areas if you don't mind my asking? I learned some anatomy but...I didn't really go to college. No college money, you know?"

:'''{{#var:1120|Caitlin Fairchild (1120)}} has posed:''' Caitlin Fairchild nods, "That makes sense. I worked for the Canadian government for a while. They were involved in some of the experiments that lead to me getting my powers. Surprisingly shady, despite their wholesome reputations," she says, taking a sip of her drink. "Oh, no, no, I'm always weird, I promise. I don't, uh, socialize that much, I guess, I do superhero work and academics, plus my own research, plus...uh, sleep?" she says. "I don't have time for much else.

:'''{{#var:86|Hyperion (86)}} has posed:''' "Yeah...believe it or not,they made a whole fake neighborhood just for me. Talk about creepy. And if they experimented on you...I'm sorry that it happened." Mark tells her with genuine sympathy. He was experimented on too, but not nearly to such an extent that his entire morphology changed. "Oh good, it's not just me. I just Uh...don't know how to talk to women in general. Or people, really. I wake up, drive a truck for money, and come home. Occasionally I do the superhero thing and meet beautiful individuals named Caitlin in coffee shops." Mark tells her with a slight wince. "Can your physics knowledge give me a filter?" "Then a pause. "Room in your schedule for a sudden coffee date with a guy who'd like to know you better?" He asks, a little hopefully. Awkward is right.

:'''{{#var:1120|Caitlin Fairchild (1120)}} has posed:''' Caitlin Fairchild almost chokes on her drink for a second, taken off guard, "Oh, I...I mean...I think...I could probably...find somemthing,' she says. She's torn between flattery and genuine panic about realizing she doesn't know what kind of room she has in her schedule. She pulls out a paper notebook, marked over with pen, with various things crossed out or connected with arrows, "I know, I know, I do have a digital schedule, but it only gets finalized when I go to bed each night, because I'm always re-arranging or changing things..." she says. "Oh, uh...yeah, I mean...sure."
}}

15813/The Gift of Compassion

2024-03-29T21:59:54Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/11/17 |Location=Avenger's Mansion |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=112, 113 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' It is not an ideal sort of situation. Last night a small riot nearly became something much more serious. Nothing too shocking right? Except in this case the location of the riot was Mutant Town. And the perpitrator? Naturally it was a mutant. Which means that..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/11/17
|Location=Avenger's Mansion
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=112, 113
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' It is not an ideal sort of situation. Last night a small riot nearly became something much more serious. Nothing too shocking right? Except in this case the location of the riot was Mutant Town. And the perpitrator? Naturally it was a mutant. Which means that the fact that any member of the Avengers was involved makes it something of a charged situation. Let alone Captain Amercia himself. Generally when a crime is committed, Steve Rogers is pretty good about turning over the suspect to police custody, to allow them to be dealt with by the legal authorities. But he has grown since waking up decades from the time he was born into. And he has come to both understand and respect that things are not always black and white and that sometimes a more... nuanced approach is required. Which is why he brought the teen boy back to the Avenger's Mansion after the incident and has been holding him ever since. Cap does not intend to hold the boy indefinitely though. Nor, however, does he intend to hand him over to the authorities. Instead he has found another option. A thired option. Which is why he is standing in the lobby of the mansion, opening the door for his guest...

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' While Emma Frost, teacher at the Xavier Institute, White Queen of the Hellfire Club and one of the foremost telepaths in the world, is usually glad for the excuse to get away from Westchester and into the city proper, there is no denying that these are not the most ideal of circumstances admittedly. One of the other things that she is -- aside from a CEO and immaculate dresser -- is a fierce advocate of mutant rights. Which means that her interest, first and foremost is the teen boy currently being held here. Regardless of what happened last night. That is always going to be her focus. Though even she might find herself just a little unnerved to find herself on the opposite side of this particular exchange given that it is Captain America who is greeting her. Heels click quietly as she takes those last few steps and strides through the open door, into the lobby of the Avenger's Mansion as if she owns the place. Though that confident, haughty demeanor might be given lie by anyone watching particularly closely as she fights against the impulse to let that pink tongue flash and wet her lips. "I think we both know why I'm here. If you would be so good as to fetch the boy, Captain," she says briskly, words quick and clipped as if she intends to just unleash a verbal onslaught until she gets her way.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' None of this is entirely unexpected. The Avengers have access to a great deal of information. It helps to be tuned into most government agencies, to SHIELD and a host of other bodies. So Steve was fairly certain just who he would be meeting and has already read up on the dossier. So the brusque manner, the seeming demands issued, none of it particularly phases Captain America. Instead his brow quirks ever so slightly, a brief smile touches his lips before he smoothes it away -- no point in putting the blonde telepath on the defensive by suggesting that he doesn't take her seriously. Because he most certainly does. "Ms. Frost. I appreciate you coming down on such short notice. You will note that I contacted you school instead of turning the youth over to the authorities. Which is what I should have done by the letter of the law," he points out mildly. "So I hope you don't mind spending just a few moments to explain just what is it that you intend to do about this situation," Steve says quietly. "Things escalated very close to dangerous violence," he adds gently.

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' That effort to build up a head of steam and simply roll right over Captain America is brought to an abrupt, if rather gentle end. It was never much of a plan really. The idea of just trying to plow straight through Captain America wasn't to work and even the roughshod way that Emma can adapt when she feels like it is in her best interest fades away at the quite sincerity of the man's inquiry. Glancing away, she can't quite hide the grimace that slides over her features. Damn reasonable people. And damn the ones that even she respects too! This would be much simpler if she could just bully her way through the entire thing. But simpler isn't always better and the White Queen turns back towards the Avenger's super soldier, that expression now calm and composed. As if she always intended to be reasonable and discuss things like an adult. "Of course Captain. I wouldn't dream of anything else," she says quietly and calmly. Lying right through her teeth. "I assume you want reassurances that it won't happen again?" Emma asks pointedly.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' While some might argue that Captain America is a little naive, that he tends to see the world through rose-tinted glasses, he's not a child. There is no real gaurantee that Emma could give that would prove sufficient to make Steve believe that there is absolutely no danger in releasing the teen into her charge. It's not a reasonable expectation. So he simply offers a brief smile and a shake of his head. "As a matter of fact that isn't what I'm looking for Ms. Frost. And realistically you can't give it to me anyways," he points out with a small shrug. "No, believe it or not I just want to make sure that turning him over to you is going to be better for him then handing him over to the legitimate authorities. There are programs you know," he points out quietly. There is a reasonable chance that he is in no way serious. That he just is testing her.

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Really, she doesn't know whether to be pleasantly pleased that Captain America seems to genuinely care first and foremost about the welfare of the teenaged boy at the heart of this incident. Or be indignant that he would even suggest that some government run program could do more for the young man then they could manage at Xavier's? The absolute lunacy of that particular idea. It's pretty much all she can do to keep from sneering at the man! The compassion helps though. Even Emma will usually respond to that with a little less bite. A little less sarcasm. Which is what keeps her from immediately responding. Instead the blonde telepath gives a quiet sigh and dips her head in seeming acknowledgement towards the blonde supersoldier. "I appreciate your concern Captain. Let me say, that I very much doubt the young man intended to cause a problem. When mutant powers suddenly come to the forefront there is frequently an adverse effect. Wherever possible we try to help minimize that. To already be there to help control and guide a new mutant through the first touching of their abilities. But that is not always possible," she conceeds. "What is without question however is that his own kind will do much more to help guide him towards a measure of control. Will keep him safe from the threats out there. Will give him a better chance to leave a productive life. That much I can assure you."
}}

16062/X: Important Meetings

2024-03-29T21:59:09Z

PoeWolf:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/02/17
|Location=Xavier's Office / Classroom
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=202, 128, 91
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan flags down Chuck in his office. "I gotta introduce ya to some of the strays. Without ya 'round, couple of people kinda wandered. This is why I questioned myself," Logan says honest on the matter. He feels bad about it. Like somehow he's not enough to bring them under the banner. A text message goes out to Lorna Dane. "Meet me at the Mansion. Now," Logan pauses and then he looks at Chuck. "Might wanna do a scan of her mind. Last I seen her she didn't act like her. I hope it wasn't her, but think sleeper cell. Somethin' kinda changed her," he says thinking on it a bit knowing there may be some unintentional work.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane had reasons for visiting the Mansion. At the very least, she needed to talk to Professor X about the. strange events around town involving a certain green haired villainess. Logan's message was rather timely then, and she suspects he has questions, much like many others. Still she is anxious as she comes to the mansion, knocking rather hesitantly on Professor X's door. Surely he can set things right?

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' Charles was indeed in his office, the man wearing one of his classic suits and rested in his wheelchair, the man's kind eyes looking up towards Logan as Wolverine attempts to convince Charles of what should be done. "A stray? There are no strays at this school, Logan. Only people who have yet to see the road that lies ahead of them." He chuckles ever so softly. "But, this school's doors will always be open to those who need it. Thank you, Logan, for welcoming them. I would love to meet this friend of yours." He reaches to gently pat Logan on the shoulder. "You're enough, Logan." He remarks to him, turning his attention to elsewhere when Lorna knocks on the door. "Oh, she's quick." He remarks to Logan. "Please, come on in!" Charles remarks towards the door.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Trust me. There are strays. Best thing to call em'. Few people that just left when their faith was lost," again more of that guilt coming up. His ocean blue eyes looking to Chales for a moment. "I know they'll be open, but people need to see they're more than open. They got more than the light on. Fer now, they need you. Kinda like how a flock needs a Priest," Logan is not the most religious man. However, the analogy fits in his mind. Then Lorna is knocking, Logan will open the door for chcuk after he gives the invitation .

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane bites her lip as she steps in, peering between Logan and Xavier. "Hey Logan, Professor. What's up?" she seems a bit tired and abut anxious too, not really sure what to expect. It's not like Lorna is a regular around here and as such she is often out of the loop of things.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' Some people just leave when they feel as though they have no reason to stay. Charles knows that feeling well. He's seen peopleof that mentality come and go, live and die. A look of sadness comes across Charles's features as he practically /feels/ Logan's guilt. "Let your mind be at peace, my friend. I'm sorry I was not here before to help you...but I am here now. For you. For all of you." He smiles warmly at the man, and as Logan moves to open the door for Xavier, Charles swivels his chair around to be able to look at Lorna more directly. There's warmth and kindness in his eyes as he regards her. "Hello young lady." He gives a cheery little grin. "Ms. Dane, if my memory serves me well." He chuckles. "I've heard good things about you. I hear you're friendly and you do well with the children. But...I wanted to extend to you a formal welcome to the school. May it be your home or sanctuary for as long as you need it."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan just smirks at the warmth. That's what people need. That's something he can't give them. Even -he- feels welcomed by Chuck's words. Yes, it took a little bit to get there, but even Charles broke through the exterior. So, he understands that some people need to hear that voice right now. Just bask in that wamrth a little bit. Feel welcomed and go forward from there. To be the port in the metaphorical storm.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane does relax a bit at the sight of the Professor. It's been a while since she's seen him, and he is one of the few people he truly trusts. "Professor, it's good to see you again." she nods, "I appreciate that..But for now, I'm happy to serve as a reserve member only.." she sighs, a distant look in her eyes. "Right now, I have a lot going on in my life, but I'm happy to help out here from time to time as needed." she nods to Logan, "It's been a while Logan, how have you been?"

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' Maybe that was who Charles was. A beacon of hope to a people so heavily persecuted by prejudice and fear. A revolutionary who attacks with words of peace and inspiration. He doesn't attack with weapons or warfare, but instead answers hatred with a message of endless love for both homo sapiens and homo superior, as so-called. But to Charles? He's just one person trying to do what he believes is right. Even still, Charles has a light rumble in his throat, a soft chuckle. "And you, Lorna." Charles nods though. "A reserve member then you will remain. I know the X-Men are happy to have you." Though he seems to nod softly. "Though if I might ask, Lorna....speaking of a lot going on...how are you really?"

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane nods slowly, mulling things over in her mind, it seems. "Well, there is the matter of my father, who claims to be trying to stop the resurrection of Apocalypse. I want to believe him, but keeping Juggernaut in his employ makes me a bit anxious.." she shrugs, "As for other matters, I suppose Alex and I just just trying to keep a low profile in Mutant Town, trying to live a normal life which is always tricky when trouble keeps rearing it's ugly head.." As she speaks, Lorna frowns softly, massaging her temples. "I continue to suffer mild headaches from time to time..Perhaps I am just overworking myself..Hearing rumours of someone looking like me causing all sorts of trouble across town, such as kidnapping kids, attacking the X-men.." emerald eyes dart briefly towards the unusually quiet Logan, suspecting this meeting has something to do with that.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' "I've heard of such news that your father is in Egypt, trying to stop this being who one might believe is some kind of messiah." Charles seems to frown. :"It's disturbing, but we can only hope that Erik has made progress in his search. As for Cain...I hear he's been meaning well, been gentle around the premises. Even Scott and Jean gave him their blessing. Where they are now, I couldn't tell you, only the hope they both return soon. Living a normal life is a difficult task..." He sighs. "But I wish you luck regardless. The world is changing, but only time ewill tell if it is for the better." He turns his eyes towards Logan, then back to Lorna. "I can attempt to solve that particular dilemma, but it will require searching your mind and potentially combatting the source. Are you comfortable with that possibility?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "I've seen the copy. Hell even fought her n' see her throw herself at Havok," Logan says honestly on the front with Lorna and the copycat. "We sure it ain't you, but with somethin' messin' wit' yer head?" it's an honest question. There's no malice to his words, he's just trying to narrow down the prospects. Then Chuck brings up the mental scan. That's something Logan will want to be present for. When the time is right to do that.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane scowls a bit at that, shaking her head. Thoughts of Cain trudging around the school unhindered has her wary enough, but someone probing her mind is not something she has ever been comfortable with...Although she always trusted the professor. "What would be the point? We've already established that someone else is trying to impersonate me..We should be focusing on trying to locate the imposter."
}}

16032/Look There, In the Distance-

2024-03-29T21:58:52Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/02/05 |Location=Xavier's Office / Classroom |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=16, 91 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' With the excitement and other sort of elated emotions settled upon hearing about and seeing that the Professor has truly returned, Rogue comes back the next day in more official capacity. While she's still not wearing her gloves, and she's settled on black denim jeans and..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/02/05
|Location=Xavier's Office / Classroom
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=16, 91
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' With the excitement and other sort of elated emotions settled upon hearing about and seeing that the Professor has truly returned, Rogue comes back the next day in more official capacity. While she's still not wearing her gloves, and she's settled on black denim jeans and a forest green tee shirt, she is now wearing her yellow X-Men jacket, complete with that circled X emblem on her shoulders and right at her heart. She also knocks on the Professor's door, but just as a sort of courtesy as she opens the door while she knocks to at least announce her arrival while letting herself in. "Heya Professor. Thought I would stop in and...see how things were settlin' for ya. Also wasn't sure if you have anything that needs any of our official attention just yet. You were always good at lettin' us know things were gonna get hairy before the folicles even started to sprout." Offering this with a coy little smile at the end.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' "Hm...yes, this here and this...here-" Charles mutters with a smile, his hands seemingly covering and shifting over different documents that have landed on his desks. Reports and filings, bills and...adorably, letters from the children welcoming Charles back. Their class schedule doesn't seem to be letting up to let them walk through Charles's door personally and rumor has it, he's attempting to get his own classes back in order to take some of the pressure off of the senior X-Men who have taken up the opportunities at the school. A knock. Charles's eyes lift from his nice wooden desk, leaning back in his chair with a warmth as his eyes settle on Rogue. "Anna Marie." Charles gestures in front of him. "Please, come in." Ah, a bald joke. "Well, I don't believe there's much to say right now. Though if I were you, I would speak to Ms. Braddock. She's been rather busy of late."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "Not even a few days in and you look like a tornado's done run across your desk, Professor." Rogue comments this as she walks in, letting the door shut behind her and then settles in a chair across from the Professor proper. "It ain't been much too crazy here. Aside from what Logan was tryin' to get across the other night. Course, was a few things here and there that happened he wasn't much happy with the outcomes. Felt like his opinion wasn't bein' listened to. I think things settled out alright though, truth be told." Aside from Jean having a contract with Lucifer himself - if that story holds any truth - which also caused them to help out Sinister....because an olive branch was given. It'll all come to a head sooner or later. "Ms. Braddock? I s'pose I can run by and see what she needs some help with. Oh...and Juggy's come by a couple times. He's actually been behavin' hisself, but it's mostly cause he wants to talk to you and we made him promise to be good or he wouldn't get a chance. So that's a meetin' you might be havin' sooner rather than later." All of this and then she seems to try to think on anything else she might be missing that would be important...but nothing jumps to her mind.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:''' "Such is the task that lies before me, always. I understand I've missed a great many things while I was away. Keep an eye on things, yes, but directly affect them? That's another story in it's entirety, my friend." Charles's voice was soft, warm, welcoming even. It was as though not a single moment had passed. Logan is mentioned and Charles's has a flash of intent in his eyes. "Tell me: how is Logan doing? I feel as though what I had told him was helpful and not quite so at the same time." He hoped Logan had opened up to Rogue in some capacity. If he hadn't? Well, that's alright. He didn't want to force Logan to confront how he had felt in Charles's absence. In fact, he was happy that Logan grew at all. Many times, there's nobody willing to take charge. But he's heard a few things... Not all of them are good. But the minds of the people around him are loud and daring. Even for ta /rumor/ of Jean making a deal with the devil is disturbing and forces Charles to question future leadership opportunities, but he won't until he's heard that side of the story. But, that is later. This is now. "Thank you, Anna." His brow raises. "Cain?" He asks, a lifetime of division between Charles and Cain flashing through his very eyes. "Thank you for letting me know in advance. If he's been on his best behavior, I see no reason why I shouldn't try and reach out to him and meet with him halfway."

:'''{{#var:16|Rogue (16)}} has posed:''' "It can take a bit for Logan to open up, but he's done a lot of soul and heart searching in recent times. Which is why I think some of what he tried to accomplish hit him so hard. He was trying his best to be better than he thought himself to be and then wound up feeling like he failed. But I've been workin' on making sure he sees the brighter side of things when I can so...he'll be alright. Just needs some time." Rogue says this much and then listens further as Xavier talks. "Yeah. Cain. Jean made him promise to be on his best behavior while he visits the school and when he's around here he does just that." At least that much is true. "Though he's gotten into some trouble outside the school. Like in Mutant Town. But I really think he teeters on the edge of good and bad sometimes. Like when me and Clint Barton found him helping some sort of heist at the train station. Tells me it's just business... but still got taught a lesson." At least in her eyes, even though she did wind up in the infirmary for a few days thanks to Cain making a Rogue-sized crater in the ground. "But Sam Guthrie makes time to swing by and hang out. When I told him you were back he was curious if there was anything he can help with. He owns a club...somewhere...but is always ready to put his work in with us if he's needed. And he keeps us supplied with sweet tea, so I surely can't complain." A smile on her lips as she says this before she shifts a bit in her chair. "So. Any stories you can share about your time away, Professor?"
}}

16062/X: Important Meetings

2024-03-29T21:58:05Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/02/17 |Location=Xavier's Office / Classroom |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=202, 128, 91 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:'''<br< Logan flags down Chuck in his office. "I gotta introduce ya to some of the strays. Without ya 'round, couple of people kinda wandered. This is why I questioned myself," Logan says honest on the matter. He feels bad about it. Like somehow he's not enough to bring..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/02/17
|Location=Xavier's Office / Classroom
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=202, 128, 91
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:'''<br< Logan flags down Chuck in his office. "I gotta introduce ya to some of the strays. Without ya 'round, couple of people kinda wandered. This is why I questioned myself," Logan says honest on the matter. He feels bad about it. Like somehow he's not enough to bring them under the banner. <br<<br< A text message goes out to Lorna Dane. "Meet me at the Mansion. Now," Logan pauses and then he looks at Chuck. "Might wanna do a scan of her mind. Last I seen her she didn't act like her. I hope it wasn't her, but think sleeper cell. Somethin' kinda changed her," he says thinking on it a bit knowing there may be some unintentional work.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:'''<br<Lorna Dane had reasons for visiting the Mansion. At the very least, she needed to talk to Professor X about the. strange events around town involving a certain green haired villainess.<br<<br<Logan's message was rather timely then, and she suspects he has questions, much like many others. Still she is anxious as she comes to the mansion, knocking rather hesitantly on Professor X's door. Surely he can set things right?

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:'''<br<Charles was indeed in his office, the man wearing one of his classic suits and rested in his wheelchair, the man's kind eyes looking up towards Logan as Wolverine attempts to convince Charles of what should be done. "A stray? There are no strays at this school, Logan. Only people who have yet to see the road that lies ahead of them." He chuckles ever so softly. "But, this school's doors will always be open to those who need it. Thank you, Logan, for welcoming them. I would love to meet this friend of yours." <br<<br< He reaches to gently pat Logan on the shoulder. "You're enough, Logan." He remarks to him, turning his attention to elsewhere when Lorna knocks on the door. "Oh, she's quick." He remarks to Logan. "Please, come on in!" Charles remarks towards the door.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:'''<br< "Trust me. There are strays. Best thing to call em'. Few people that just left when their faith was lost," again more of that guilt coming up. His ocean blue eyes looking to Chales for a moment. "I know they'll be open, but people need to see they're more than open. They got more than the light on. Fer now, they need you. Kinda like how a flock needs a Priest," Logan is not the most religious man. However, the analogy fits in his mind. <br<<br< Then Lorna is knocking, Logan will open the door for chcuk after he gives the invitation .

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:'''<br<Lorna Dane bites her lip as she steps in, peering between Logan and Xavier. "Hey Logan, Professor. What's up?" she seems a bit tired and abut anxious too, not really sure what to expect. It's not like Lorna is a regular around here and as such she is often out of the loop of things.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:'''<br<Some people just leave when they feel as though they have no reason to stay. Charles knows that feeling well. He's seen peopleof that mentality come and go, live and die. A look of sadness comes across Charles's features as he practically /feels/ Logan's guilt. "Let your mind be at peace, my friend. I'm sorry I was not here before to help you...but I am here now. For you. For all of you." He smiles warmly at the man, and as Logan moves to open the door for Xavier, Charles swivels his chair around to be able to look at Lorna more directly. <br<<br< There's warmth and kindness in his eyes as he regards her. "Hello young lady." He gives a cheery little grin. "Ms. Dane, if my memory serves me well." He chuckles. "I've heard good things about you. I hear you're friendly and you do well with the children. But...I wanted to extend to you a formal welcome to the school. May it be your home or sanctuary for as long as you need it."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:'''<br< Logan just smirks at the warmth. That's what people need. That's something he can't give them. Even -he- feels welcomed by Chuck's words. Yes, it took a little bit to get there, but even Charles broke through the exterior. So, he understands that some people need to hear that voice right now. Just bask in that wamrth a little bit. Feel welcomed and go forward from there. To be the port in the metaphorical storm.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:'''<br<Lorna Dane does relax a bit at the sight of the Professor. It's been a while since she's seen him, and he is one of the few people he truly trusts. "Professor, it's good to see you again." she nods, "I appreciate that..But for now, I'm happy to serve as a reserve member only.." she sighs, a distant look in her eyes.<br<<br<"Right now, I have a lot going on in my life, but I'm happy to help out here from time to time as needed." she nods to Logan, "It's been a while Logan, how have you been?"

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:'''<br<Maybe that was who Charles was. <br<<br< A beacon of hope to a people so heavily persecuted by prejudice and fear. A revolutionary who attacks with words of peace and inspiration. He doesn't attack with weapons or warfare, but instead answers hatred with a message of endless love for both homo sapiens and homo superior, as so-called. But to Charles? <br<<br< He's just one person trying to do what he believes is right. <br<<br< Even still, Charles has a light rumble in his throat, a soft chuckle. "And you, Lorna." Charles nods though. "A reserve member then you will remain. I know the X-Men are happy to have you." Though he seems to nod softly. "Though if I might ask, Lorna....speaking of a lot going on...how are you really?"

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:'''<br<Lorna Dane nods slowly, mulling things over in her mind, it seems. "Well, there is the matter of my father, who claims to be trying to stop the resurrection of Apocalypse. I want to believe him, but keeping Juggernaut in his employ makes me a bit anxious.." she shrugs, "As for other matters, I suppose Alex and I just just trying to keep a low profile in Mutant Town, trying to live a normal life which is always tricky when trouble keeps rearing it's ugly head.."<br<<br<As she speaks, Lorna frowns softly, massaging her temples. "I continue to suffer mild headaches from time to time..Perhaps I am just overworking myself..Hearing rumours of someone looking like me causing all sorts of trouble across town, such as kidnapping kids, attacking the X-men.." emerald eyes dart briefly towards the unusually quiet Logan, suspecting this meeting has something to do with that.

:'''{{#var:91|Charles Xavier (91)}} has posed:'''<br<"I've heard of such news that your father is in Egypt, trying to stop this being who one might believe is some kind of messiah." Charles seems to frown. :"It's disturbing, but we can only hope that Erik has made progress in his search. As for Cain...I hear he's been meaning well, been gentle around the premises. Even Scott and Jean gave him their blessing. Where they are now, I couldn't tell you, only the hope they both return soon. Living a normal life is a difficult task..." <br<<br< He sighs. "But I wish you luck regardless. The world is changing, but only time ewill tell if it is for the better." <br<<br< He turns his eyes towards Logan, then back to Lorna. "I can attempt to solve that particular dilemma, but it will require searching your mind and potentially combatting the source. Are you comfortable with that possibility?"

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:'''<br< "I've seen the copy. Hell even fought her n' see her throw herself at Havok," Logan says honestly on the front with Lorna and the copycat. "We sure it ain't you, but with somethin' messin' wit' yer head?" it's an honest question. There's no malice to his words, he's just trying to narrow down the prospects. <br<<br< Then Chuck brings up the mental scan. That's something Logan will want to be present for. When the time is right to do that.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:'''<br<Lorna Dane scowls a bit at that, shaking her head. Thoughts of Cain trudging around the school unhindered has her wary enough, but someone probing her mind is not something she has ever been comfortable with...Although she always trusted the professor.<br<<br<"What would be the point? We've already established that someone else is trying to impersonate me..We should be focusing on trying to locate the imposter."
}}

15968/A New Plan

2024-03-29T21:43:55Z

PoeWolf: An agreement is made to hide the real Segment of Death with fakes

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/13
|Location=Serpent's Den, Cairo, Egypt
|Synopsis=An agreement is made to hide the real Segment of Death with fakes
|Cast of Characters=221, 128, 1284
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:221|Magneto (221)}} has posed:''' Following the unsuccessful attempt to destroy the Segment of Death in the desert with the assistance of Alex Summers and Lorna Dane, Magneto made his way back to the Serpent's Den. His plan was to convene with the Whisperer, Lorna, and Tabitha to discuss their next course of action.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane isn't too keen on this shady pub but she's even less keen on having a dangerous segment floating around. After Alex failed to destroy it, it's time to reconvene and figure out the next step..Hopefully Magneto has something in mind. She steps in, dressed in purple pants, a black shirt and matching hoodie which covers her green hair, not wanting to stand out too much as she looks around for the Lord if magnetism.

:'''{{#var:1284|Tabitha Smith (1284)}} has posed:''' Hanging out in some dingy old dive bar is nothing new to Tabitha smith. Even this particular dive bar. They've been in and out of it so much it's almost become a second headquarters for the various mutants that have been working on this whole mess. Coming in with Lorna, Tabby might have had her outfit considered loud but having been out in the dusty streets of Cairo, her red jeans and long sleeved yellow hooded jogging top had dulled a little. Her yellow tinted glasses eliminating glare and any schmutz blowing in her face from outside while she dusts out her ponytailed hair. "Soo, I doubt my power is gonna help destroy it. We could always just yeet it a few planes of existence over from this one?" she suggests softly.

:'''{{#var:221|Magneto (221)}} has posed:''' Lorna and Tabitha enter the room to find Magneto in conversation with the man known as the Whisperer. "It could potentially work," Magneto responds to Tabitha's suggestion, his expression thoughtful. "However, it seems rather unaffected by mutant powers as it is. I'm not sure that it would work." The Whisperer interjects, "In the meantime, I have managed to get some replicas made. We could always go with the plan of hiding the real one amongst the replicas and keeping them all on the move." Magneto nods, his gaze focused. Although, anyone with a replica would be in danger, no matter who has the real segment."

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane arches a brow, "Get Illyana or Pixie to port it to a hell dimension? assuming no one there uses it to revive Apocalypse? Still it's a thought.." she shrugs, "What about magic? isn't it made of magic even?" She joins Magneto and the Whisper at the table looking tired and frustrated. "We could, but that will only buy us time..And we areXmen, we know what we signed up for, it's part of our job."

:'''{{#var:1284|Tabitha Smith (1284)}} has posed:''' The blonde woman grins and takes a seat, getting herself about as comfortable as she can. Which isn't all that comfy really. "If mutant powers don't do squat. We throw some tech or magic at it. More than one way to peel an apple." she points out. "If the goal is now just keep away, like the fakes we have options. I'm down to run around with one. It's gonna be a risk for anyone but at least I can fight. And fight dirty if I need to. And sell the con if I do get beat and the thing yoinked." she adds.

:'''{{#var:221|Magneto (221)}} has posed:''' "Well, mutant powers are far superior to magic and tech, and if they don't work, I doubt magic or tech would work," Magneto replied, his confidence in mutant abilities clear. "I think the only option for now is to delay the cult from completing the sceptre," he continued, his tone resolute. "Perhaps, given time, we would be able to track down and defeat the members of the cult. We may not be able to destroy the sceptre, but perhaps we can put a stop to them."

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane sighs and nods, "If you think that is best. Then Alex and I can take one of them..Should they come looking in mutant town, we will be ready..In the meantime are there any leads on the next piece? exactly how many pieces are there, anyway?"

:'''{{#var:1284|Tabitha Smith (1284)}} has posed:''' Complete mutant supremacy kind of makes Tabitha smirk and arch an eyebrow with an incredulous look. "I've see too much stuff to believe that Maggy. It's totally a Rock Paper Scissors deal. And we might be the Scissors hitting the Rock this time. So we find the Paper." she states. They'll figure something out. "Once we got the real one stashed probably should get you to haul about with a fake, Magneto. You're gonna be a high profile target. So off loading the real one in the mean time we'll need to figure out."

:'''{{#var:221|Magneto (221)}} has posed:''' Magneto frowned at Lorna, his expression showing his regret. "It seems that I forgot to fill you in on that part of the situation. There are four pieces of the Sceptre of Eternity: the Segment of Death, the Segment of War, the Segment of Pestilence, and the Segment of Famine. The rest of the pieces are said to be laid to rest in different countries. We had decided that we don't know if Clan Akkaba has managed to recover the rest of the pieces or not. So, instead of traveling looking for pieces that might not be there anymore, we should deal with the Segment of Death to prevent the reconstruction of the sceptre."

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane arches a brow. "Oh I see, then three more, well I suppose it makes sone kind of sense to only focus on the one. So how realistic are these fake pieces? As long as we focus on advertising those as the real deal it should buy us some time but for what?"

:'''{{#var:1284|Tabitha Smith (1284)}} has posed:''' "I'd have figured those Akkabalama ding dongs already have the other bits of the dinguses, dingii." Tabby says in a suggestion of possible current events. "So keep away is probably safest. death sounds like the most important bit, so as long as they don't get that, any attempt to use a fake is probably gonna back fire on them." she adds and hmmms. The hope that hilarity ensues. "Then we just hide the real dealio where no one would think, let alone want to look. Like say and as example my... toy chest." she adds with an awkward grin on her features. "Just an example. Somewhere it would be easily overlooked."
}}

15917/A lonely night

2024-03-29T21:36:38Z

PoeWolf: Lorna catches up with Logan

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/12/24
|Location=Club Evolution, Mutant Town
|Synopsis=Lorna catches up with Logan
|Cast of Characters=128, 202
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Club Evo is pretty loud and raucous tonight as they approach Christmas, although Lorna isn't really in the mood for partying. With Alex currently down for the count and Magneto hunting down relics, she's grown rather thoughtful and withdrawn, not really having reached out to any or many Xmen lately, aside from a brief cooking lesson if only to get Alex's health up. Tonight finds her skulking in a booth in the back, watching the late night harrying distractedly as she tried to finish off a drink, looking tired but not quite ready to leave. The last band of the night finished playing and they're mostly playing background music so things are starting to calm down at least..

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan is there, too. He's in his own booth too. Thoughts run through mind as he dissect things. He looks about for a moment. When he notices a familiar gree haired woman skulking, he'll give her a nod. On th table wth him is a simple tan coboy hat, and he's dressed in a simple red flannel shirt and a pair of blue jeans that a simple shade of blu with a little fade from wear. His ocean blue eyes flick back to hs drink. Then he takes a sip of the beer.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane is just one booth over and she recognizes him instantly. She smirks a bit, nodding to him, although hesitant to join him initially, neither of them are super social butterflies afterall. "How you been, Logan?" she asks over the booth seat,

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' Logan shrugs a little bit. "I don't know. Just figurin' it out. How 'bout you?" He asks and takes his mug of beer. Bringing it to his lip, he takes a small pull off the glass. Then he nods to the spot across for him.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane arches a brow, "Figuring what out exactly? Life you mean?" she smirks, "Aren't we all..Heck, If you want to talk about it, I'm happy to listen.."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Just what's gonna happen. Everything's been too quiet n' that bugs me. I hate that. Feels like somethin' is ready to drop n' it bugs me," hea dmits and shakes his head a little bit. "And y'know, everyone's gt somethin'," he admits looking back toward Lorna for a moment. His gaze locked on her.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane smirks and shrugs, and after a moments thought she climbs to her feet, moving to join him. "Quiet? I wouldn't say that...Now that Spiral's in town stirring up trouble, messing with the key lines..And with my father out there searching for hidden relics, claiming to want to stop the revival of Apocalypse.." She sighs and stretches. "I had hoped Alex could put an end to things by blasting the first relic to smithereens but..Guess not..And now he'll be out of it for a while."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Got a pont. She has Reavers with her," Logan admits and he needs to remember she's out there. It's something he cannot ignore. "I know that she's causin' trouble," he lks at her for a mment thinking more on it. His eyes looking at her, "Where'd he go?" he asks honestly concerned. Logan heard rmors about Alex beng back. So it made hiim curious where they guy swas His eyes stays focused on Lorna fora moment.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane sighs and nods, "Spiral wasn't alone, She had minions with her, helping her to open portals, nearly tore the local bowling alley apart!" she frowns, "Took me a while to repair the ley lines, and she even asked for my help, said she's trying to break away from mojo but...I dunno if we can trust her.."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "We can't. We can trust her to benefit herself. If the goals align, we can trust her. Th second they diverge, ain't no trustin' her," Logan says ever the cautious individual. His recent run in with her made hink think otherwise there. Knowing that she may need to be dealt with in other ways soon.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane nods. "That's what I was thinking too, it's got to be a trick. I suppose the Xmen should be alerted too.." She talks like an outsider, like she's not an Xman..Maybe she isn't, given the company she keeps lately., "Honesty, I came to Mutant Town to get away from heroics..But I guess that was naive thinking.."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "I ain't sayin' she can't be help, but we can't trust in it completely. Think of her like freelance at best," Logan knows that is the best way to see. Then ocean blues lock on her. "Then join me fer a drink. We can stow the work talk.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane nods. "Agreed. Then we proceed with caution, on both Spiral, and Magneto.." she sighs, "I guess there's no escaping the heroics, guess Alex and I will never get to live a normal life huh." she nods and hails the waitress down to order another round of drinks.

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "I think w all want happiness like that, but we gotta make it work fer th world we live in," Logan says softly as he reachs out a hand for her own. A smile pulls at his lips as he watchs her.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane nods and groans. "Yeah, sure. I want happiness, just not keen on the price of that happiness." she stiffens at the touch but doesn't pull away. "That's one of the reasons why we chose to be only reserve members of the Xmen afteralk.."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Well, what's holdin' ya back from grabbin' it? I ain't sayin' it's gonna be easy, but the good stuff ain't easy," Logans ays sftly nowing he sounds annoyingly positive. "Ya deserve it. So does yer better half," Logan adds and he's just thnking of some struggles others have.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane shrugs, "I guess, finding that balance. I want a normal life with Alex, away from all the drama and danger and politics that comes with being a superhero..But I don't want to abandon my friends and allies in theXmen when they need me the most."

:'''{{#var:202|Logan (202)}} has posed:''' "Ya ain't gonna abandon them if yer figurin' out the balance. People like Stark ain't always one or the other," Logan says pointing out that work-life balance, for lack of better terms. "It's just different fer everyne, i guess," Logan shrugs and takes another drink of the beer. Ocean blue eyes looking back to her.
}}

15894/The Facility part 2

2024-03-29T21:36:02Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/12/15 |Location=Unknown |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=1028, 112 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Despite being an organization that uses state-of-the-art, cutting-edge technology, SHIELD is still a typical slow-moving bureaucracy in many ways -- what seems like it should be quick takes time. Narrowing down the location of the Facility the German scientist suggested all the..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/12/15
|Location=Unknown
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=1028, 112
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Despite being an organization that uses state-of-the-art, cutting-edge technology, SHIELD is still a typical slow-moving bureaucracy in many ways -- what seems like it should be quick takes time. Narrowing down the location of the Facility the German scientist suggested all the genetic experiments with Avengers' DNA is happening in is a slow-moving target. A great deal of this likely has to do with Fury trying to compartmentalize as much of the information as possible to prevent leaks. As far as Captain America is concerned, it's been radio silent. All of which to say that one Jessica Drew has gotten rather tired of the whole waiting around for something to happen thing. She knows people, and she was trained as a spy by both Hydra and SHIELD. It's a perfect -- deadly -- combination when it comes to information gathering when she's motivated. And she is. It's just a good thing she's doing it for the right reasons. It's a rainy afternoon when the dark-haired woman wanders the Avengers mansion in search of Steve Rogers.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Patience is a virtue. But that doesn't necessarily make it an easy one to master. Even for Steve Rogers he has to work at it. Maybe moreso in this new world, this new time. It seems to move so much more quickly then it used to. Which only makes waiting that much more difficult really. Still, while he has a great deal of faith in Nick Fury and in his process, he has gotten used to the fact that the man moves at his own speed, in his own time. And not always as swift as Steve might prefer. All of which is to say that the blonde super soldier is indeed in Avenger's Mansion when Jessica comes searching. But he isn't pouring over tactics or intelligence reports. He's not even in the training room, putting himself through one of those gruelling workouts. No, he is putting his patience to work at the moment, parked out at the rear of the building, peering out at the backyard of the mansion, the view not quite as picturesque as it might be in spring or summer with all the greenery in bloom. Instead he stands in front of a easel, sketching out the somewhat more bleak lastscape, brow furrowed in concentration.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' The training room is where Jess heads first. Seems like a good default for the blonde super soldier, but no. This is the problem with JARVIS respecting privacy. It would be so much easier if he would tell her. Then again she might not be comfortable with others checking her movements. After checking the kitchen (more of a 'her' thing than a Steve thing), the dining hall and the theater, she finally makes her way outside, and falls still, exhaling. It's much cooler out here and for all that her body chemistry is enhanced she's susceptible to the cold just like anyone else. Today's t-shirt bearing the words 'Team Jess!' and her colorful elephant print pants don't make for a warm outfit. She wraps her arms around herself, eyes ticking over the easel, then over the man himself. His level of concentration makes her not want to disturb him. So Jessica stands there in a kind of trapped indecision, all determination gone.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' The cold doesn't seem to bother Steve that much, but then he is also dressed a little better for it with a suitably colorful holiday sweater in red and green warding off the chill in the air nicely it seems. The thermos that sits nearby likely has coffee or something equally warm to help as well. Either way, he seems to have been out here for awhile already and in no particular hurry to move on. While the Avenger's compound is probably about as safe as it gets inside of New York's confines, it's unlikely that the blonde super soldier ever completely lets his guard down and while he does not immediately acknowledge her arrival -- instead finishing up a few casually swipes of the pencil, reaching out to smudge the line a little bit -- he finally does glance back over his shoulder, wry smile curving over his features. "Jess," he says in quiet greeting. "You look a little chilly," he notes, the corners of his mouth twitching slightly. "What's up?"

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' "Nice sweater." She means it sincerely. Jessica really does love kitschy clothes. One of her (many) weaknesses. "Didn't mean to interrupt," she says, shifting her weight as she resolves her indecision and walks closer. Her eyes go to the bleak sketch, giving it a thorough regard. "I like this. Feels a little dark. You've got a knack for capturing a mood, Steve." "Yeah. Winter's snuck up on us, huh? You'd think being born in England I'd be more inclined to the colder weather, but no." She shifts her weight from foot to foot, her arms tightening around herself, sighing. "So, about the," she pauses, glances over her shoulder, "That thing we talked about, I might've... leaned on a guy who knows a guy. Probably better you don't know specifics," her smile is quick, bright. Something she enjoys. "Anyway. I got some intel on the Facility. Unofficially. You want me to share?" She's giving him an easy out. Just in case he's changed his mind.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' He doesn't really look much like an artist. Not really. And certainly among the many skills that people generally think of when Captain America comes to mind drawing and painting probably do not top the list. Which makes sense. It's certainly not as showy as throwing a shield so it rebounds off of three enemies and then somehow flies back to his waiting hand. Which, in fairness is fairly impressive. None the less, he seems to know his way around the canvas as well and if the sketch thus far is a little bleak, it does a well enough job of capturing the mood. Not so much of the holiday season admittedly, but winter in general. "Thanks," Steve offers with a little grin, finally turning away from the easel and the drawing there. "You're never interrupting," he assures her quietly, plucking up that container of piping hot coffee and pouring some out into a little cup before offering her the same. But when she mentions exactly what has brought her out here his expression grows a little more serious. He knew she was going to poke around some herself. To see what she could find out on her own. Heck, he encouraged her to that really. And he would do it again. As far as he's concerned nothing has changed and while he certainly hopes SHIELD will play it straight with them on this particular subject, he's not willing to close all other avenues off. This is all way too important. "Lay it on me," he says quietly.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' The reassurance that she's not interrupting is very welcome by Jessica, to judge by the way her posture relaxes. Social cues is one of those things she either doesn't perceive readily or is completely oblivious to. The tiny little things people learn as they grow up, corrected by parents or friends, are things she missed out on. Among many other things. The smile of gratitude she lays on Steve when he offers her that cup is both bright and warm. "Thanks," she says, taking the cup and curling her hands around it, sipping a second later with a guttural sigh of appreciation. "So, I talked to some... we can call them friends, inside SHIELD. Apparently they have narrowed down the likely locations of the Facility to half a dozen, most of them in very difficult places to easily surveil remotely. Fury has been arranging for teams to get closer to the European targets -- there's four there. There's two more located in Greenland but they've been assessed as less likely so they're focusing manpower on the European sites for now. Given Greenland is where I was stationed undercover to provide supporting intel, it feels like it's more likely to be there to me." Jessica grimaces. "As much as I hate the cold... how do you feel about a field trip?"

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Fortunately, Steve is pretty good at social cues, though a lot of conventions have certainly changed over the years. Still, he's a pretty good sort to have around when good manners and good graces count. It might not be a superpower, but politeness serves him pretty well. Even when it comes time to hit someone with a shield. He still tends to be pretty civil about it. At least as civil as one can be while wailing on the bad guys. That some of Jessica's contacts are right inside of SHIELD isn't particularly surprising. The community isn't that large after all and is necessarily fairly tight. No doubt a whole bunch of people owe her favors. Come to think of it, there's more then a few who probably feel they owe Steve as well. And probably some that would be of the opinion that they should help out Captain America if they were asked. Something to keep in mind. Listening intently to her run down the list of possibilities, the blonde super solider nods his head thoughtfully. It makes sense. The more isolated the better in many ways. Not easier to be sure -- getting supplies in is a heck of a lot more difficult in Greenland then in the Alps. But sometimes privacy trumps ease. "I was just thinking that it was about time for a little snow to go with the season," Steve replies wryly. "Lets poke around some and see if we can speed things up a little."

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' The way Jessica's looking at Steve is cautious, like she's holding her own thoughts in reserve. It's only once he mentions poking around that she goes up onto her toes, lips quirking upwards. "I was hoping you would say that," she says. "I asked JARVIS to make sure the quinjet was prepped." Too much assumption? Oh well. She sips at the coffee. "I'm pretty much packed. Which you know, is basically just my uniform and a coat. And a bag full of food. Though, uh, I didn't think about maybe having to camp out to scope out these places. And get binoculars. Damn. This is stuff I rely on like, SHIELD to think about and pull together. Or you." Jessica's giving Steve a very pointed, wide-eyed look. Tactical planning and preparation might not be a super power but it's definitely one of the skillsets Steve has that Jessica lacks in.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' It is admittedly helpful to have SHIELD on one's side when it comes time to plan and prep for incursions like this. But it's not absolutely essential. Hopping up to Greenland isn't exactly the same as heading out for an outting in Central Park truth be told, but Steve has the benefit of a whole lot of experience and a pretty good head for this sort of thing. And they are still Avengers afterall. Their own resources are nothing to sneeze at. So when Jess glances his way, ever so hopefully, the blonde super soldier only flashes a brief smile in return. It would seem that he understands what's being asked of him well enough. "Fair enough. I'll start gathering some of the other supplies we need. I imagine we have most of them in the basement. And anything we don't I'm sure Tony's credit card can help us acquire easy enough," he says confidently. "We might as well grab some Stark satellite maps of the area too," he muses thoughtfully. For the time being the burgeoning painting is forgotten -- or at least put aside -- until he has some more free time to work on it. "Give me a few hours and then we can meet up at the Quinjet?"

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Jessica's effusive, "You're the best!" is genuine. "If you need me to convince people, or glower at someone, or whatever, let me know. In the meantime, I can work with JARVIS to get a satellite retasked." Because they are Avengers, and JARVIS can hack just about anything out there. The idea of using Tony's credit card makes Jessica's eyes widen. Technically, their Avengers ID cards /are/ credit cards with an unlimited spending limit. Only someone (wisely) never informed Jessica of this. "I'm good at spending other people's money, too. Just put me to work if you need, Cap." "Three hours. Got it. Get in, get out, high five, eat burgers and whiskey on the way back as celebration, maybe sneak in a celebration dance in there. That's a plan I can get behind." Jessica tosses back the rest of the coffee, gulping quickly. Any wonder why she doesn't plan missions?

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' It would seem they have a plan then. Or at least the solid beginnings of one. Once they get out in the field things will be subject to change of course. But that's how it always works, they should both be familiar enough with that particular problem. So it will be divide and conquer then and if she'd be more comfortable leaving the planning part of the mission to him, at least she's willing to jump in on some of the technical components. And putting a small dent into Tony's rather excessive fortune. Even Steve will conceed that can be passingly pleasant. "That would definitely help," the blonde super soldier agrees. "If you and JARVIS can start retasking that satellite so that we can get live updates while we're up there I'll start putting the list of gear we need together. Then we can divide that up and go on a shopping spre for anything we don't already have downstairs in storage," he agrees wryly. Maybe not having SHIELD support on this particular mission won't be all bad.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' "You got it, Cap." Any wonder Jess is excited? Yeah, she likes missions. Ones where there's a high chance of punching Hydra soldiers in the face, even more so. She starts to skip-walk from the room, then halts and turns, dramatically slowly. Shopping spree. Jessica's eyes practically light up. It's not quite the magical words 'cheeseburger and milkshakes' are but it's definitely right up there, judging by the sudden bounce of energy. "I'm all /in/!" "Uh. Probably have to check with JARVIS where all the stuff in the basement got moved to. Tony was doing some experimental... stuff... down there." It's not that Jessica is being discreet. More like she was vaguely paying attention and more annoyed about all the noise at the time than whatever Tony's latest project was. It'll take them time to split the difference and either find what they need from storage (exceptionally achievable with JARVIS' help) or purchase what they need (also do-able with the weight of a unlimited credit card).

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' If something is worth doing, it is probably worth doing right. Yeah, while it might not be the most original of sentiments it is certainly something that Captain America would naturally adhere to, the sort of old fashion but earnest sentiment that he tends to embody Still, he flashes a brief grin at her earnest enthuiasm. Truthfully, he is a little releaved as well at the opportunity to finally do something on this, to chase down some sort of lead, no matter how much of a long shot it might be. He's not immune to it, anymore then she is. Though maybe he hides it better. Just a little bit. Still, the thing is that this somehow just sorta feels like they are on the right track. While it might not be a sure thing it just feels right. It feels like progress. And right now, both of them seem to need the sense that they are getting closer to resolving things. "Good idea. Lets go check in with Jarvis. He might even have an inventory list on hand which will save us from rooting around in boxes to see what we have at our disposal." That should save some time and work. "Then we can go shopping." It's not cheeseburgers and milkshakes, but who is he to deny her?

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' One major benefit of having an all-seeing AI monitoring your place of residence? You never have to wonder where you left any given item or in which box. While all of the weapons and explosives and actually dangerous things are kept in an armory and accessible by all the Avengers, there's secondary storage rooms in which they are able to secure proper cold weather gear, backpacks, camping gear, and almost everything they need. Some supplies though they have to restock -- like MRE's -- a trip that takes them to an army surplus store and is definitely not the kind of shopping Jessica thought they were doing. Though she does get inordinately distracted by the bowie knives. It's not at all subtle, the way Jessica moves with a anticipation, to say that she's looking forward to this, to settling the debts of this long stream of missions. Also not subtle: the way she packs explosives into her pack in readiness. Soon enough, they're packed into the quinjet with their various supplies. Jess pulls up the satellite imagery of Greenland that JARVIS obtained as they're in transit. "So, here's our two probable targets," Jessica says. "The first is McMorris," and she zooms in, the square nature of the building, the tall metal tower and a cluster of outbuildings making it obvious it's man-made. "Apparently this is an international research station, focused on climate change and the changes in ice, all that good stuff." She flips the view once more. "And here, about ten miles south, all I could find was this." It's a cluster of white white domes almost invisible against the snowy background. "I think it's some kind of wildlife research group. Bears? Something like that. We can insert some records of our potential arrival to the first but the second we'd have to wing it. Or just sit and watch them?"

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Ahhh JARVIS. In some ways he is even more essential to the efficent and happy funcitoning of the Avengers then Tony. At least when it comes to making sure you have all the right gear, or if you're looking to be provided food options. If you're looking for a way to pay for it all or punch something into space Tony might still edge him out. Steve will give them both the benefit of the doubt and call the whole thing a draw. He's just charitable that way. Thanks to JARVIS' efforts and knowledge base it doesn't take them all that long to track down the essentials, gathering up backpacks and cold weather gear. Rope and ice picks and all the essentials should they need to go scaling hills, mountains or glaciers. Heavily insulated tents with warming devices. Lanterns. A recharging station. And a host of other potentially useful items for the cold frozen waste that they're heading. The little trip to the store might not be the most exciting shopping trip Jessica has ever gone on, but it too nets them the last of the gear that they need. And they even add her favorite Bowie knife to the list. Hopefully she doesn't have the opportunity or need to use it, though she might disagree on that particular point. The gear is loaded and stored away on the Quinjet and they are off, the autopilot winging them towards the frozen north while the pair of Avengers linger in the back, going over the satelitte imagery, plotting out their next move. "Mmmmm, lets not risk letting either one know we're on our way. With our VTOL capability we should be able to set down on this ice shelf here," he says, indicating a spot between their two targets. "The terrain is a little rough but we should be able to hike it well enough to put them under closer observation, see if we can catch anything that gives them away as a HYDRA operation. I could see them using either cover," Steve admits with careful, quiet consideration.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' There's a reason Jessica readily (and seemingly honestly) declares she loves JARVIS. It's not just the food (though a lot of it is the food). She probably genuinely wouldn't be able to function normally without JARVIS reminding her of things. Like when her therapy appointments are, or that she promised to meet someone, or that she probably ought to give up her slippers temporarily for a wash. She's almost a fully functioning human again. Just a few rough edges still remain. Like her sheer delight over getting that new knife when, sure, she's got plenty at home. But this one is /new/. That she practices twirling the knife in her hand during the trip might be disconcerting to anyone who didn't recognize it is a mini coping mechanism. When Steve points out the ice shelf he wants to land on, she sighs as she calculates the rough path it'll take them to traverse. Sure, it's hardly strenuous for a super solider, or a spider, but: "Ugh. Did I mention I hate the cold?" Her nose wrinkles, but she starts to dress herself appropriately. Her costume -- minus the face mask -- is already on, and she layers thermals on top of that, then thick cold weather gear. The coat she chooses is particularly long and fluffy. "Me too. I'm leaning towards the research station, just because it's got a bigger footprint so it'd be easier for them to hide comings and goings. They had regular shipments of information they kept offline, which means regular deliveries. Harder to explain that in the bear-watch camp, I think."

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' While JARVIS might not have been designed to be a surrogate friend, part time therapist, cook and housekeeper to some of the world's most powerful heroes, he has none the less done a pretty good job of sliding into those roles and making things easier for them all. Then again, he was supporting Tony first so maybe he was intended to do precisely all of that. It's certainly not out of the realm of possibility. Anymore then it is unlikely that some of the most powerful heroes on Earth might need that kind of support. All in all, Steve might be a fairly stable minded member, but even he has his issues now and then, and while he is just as comfortable talking things out with an actual, honest to god human being, even he will be quick to conceed that JARVIS brings a lot of the table in that department. Just one more adjustment he has had to make from his own time. There's been a lot of those and it remains a process, no matter how well it might look that he has adapted, even to those who know him best. When he points out his suggested landing zones he is already smiling faintly, anticipating the sigh to come. He gets it. Hiking over that sort of rough terrain isn't the most fun, no matter how good a shape you're in, or what powers you boast -- unless it's the power to fly or teleport perhaps. And the cold can sap the vitality of even those like them, that have superhuman reserves. But he wants every advantage that they can get, and an element of surprise is one of those potentially at their disposal. "I'm not sure that anyone is a big fan. But just think, if we track down that Hydra base and blow the heck out of it, you'll be feeling plenty warm then Jess," Steve points out reasonably, beginning to add his own layers over that costume as the Quinjet continues to wing it's way out over the North Atlantic, the looming landmess up ahead most definitely not showing any trace of green. "And I think you're right. It's definitely the place to start, and with luck, end."

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Although Jessica's certainly not afraid of complaining, she very obviously doesn't protest Steve's suggestions. She's more than happy to defer to his leadership on how to approach this particular situation. He'll just have to put up with the grumbling, though. Sadly, she can't fly of her own. If only there were some tall buildings to glide from. Then Steve proves he completely knows what makes Jessica happy, because, her enthusiastic, "Hell yes!" at the idea of blowing this place to kingdom come is paired with a bright-eyed laugh. You know, assuming it's a Hydra base and all. She goes up onto her toes, and happy-sighs with the potential imagining of it. "I got a question, though, Steve. Can we like, high-five when it explodes? It would look bad anywhere else but it's not like there's going to be people with phones recording us out here. It can be our little secret." One side benefit of being out in the middle of nowhere.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Look, Steve isn't one to glory in destruction. Sometimes it is necessary. It is a fight worth fighting. It has to be done. But it ihas never been something that he has particularly celebrated. But this is Hydra that they are talking about. And if there was ever a fight worth celebrating a little, a victory worth commemorating despite any destruction involved, it would definitely be over that particular faction. They have, afterall, been probably the leading bane of his existence, almost from the moment he was injected with that Super Soldier Serum. They have caused countless deaths and far too much destruction to cateloge. And now they're trying to clone him to cause who knows how much more chaos. Yeah, he might be willing to bend some of his principles, just this once. "I won't tell if you won't," the blonde super soldier agrees with just a faint twitch of his lips. Let Operation High-Five commence.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Everyone has the thing that pushes them over the line. Little wonder it's Hydra for Steve. It's the same for Jessica, for more personal but no less compelling reasons. "You're the best, Steve!" Jessica declares, as she lifts up her curled fist for a bump. Better not leave her hanging! The quinjet lands, as programmed, onto the ice sheet, the cloaking keeping it from view of radars but also physical view. The rush of cold when the hatch opens onto the icy, snow-packed shelf is almost physical in nature, it's so brutally cold. Jessica casually shoulders her absurdly heavy pack without concern, which, in addition to the explosives she packed in there, contains plenty of food, some of the gear Steve picked out for them, as well as a sneaky bottle of whiskey. When she drops down out of the quinjet to the ground, the shiver and exhale of dismay at the cold isn't exaggerated. She pulls goggles and scarf into place, tucking the hood of her coat closed. "As soon as I figure out which way the wind is blowing from, you're playing windbreak," she tells Steve. Good luck, though. Winds are pretty changeable here. It's also dark. This time of year there's around five hours of daylight to be had. The stars are crisp and clear though, and there's enough light from the moon for them to be able to see once their vision adjusts.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' If you've just got to have a thing, a hatred of Hydra seems like a pretty good one to have. It's hard to go wrong, beating on them. Ain't no one going to object to it, except maybe Hydra agents themselves. And they don't get a vote on the matter. Would Steve leave her hanging? Maybe when he first awoke in this time, more out of ignorance thenn anything else. But he is reasonably well settled now. Enough so he lifts a hand of his own and bumps knuckles with her. "Likewise," he agrees with a brief, tight smile. Then all there is to do is finish checking over their gear, to make sure everything is packed tight and secure as the Quinjet races towards its final destination, dropping in low and stealthily above the designated landzing zone. His own pack is pretty much identical to hers -- minus the whiskey admittedly, though he might be regretting that by the time they're setting up their tents for the night -- and he hefts it with ease as well, slinging it casually across his shoulders as the rear landing ramp begins to lower to the waiting icy shelf beyond. Sometimes it's good have super soldier serum running through one's veins. Or being a genetically modified spider person. Perks! "That might be a challenge," Steve counters wryly, stepping out onto the ice and almost immediately pulling up the hood of his coat to help break the wind. Sure enough it seems to swirl, first coming straight from the north, then the west, that icy breeze seeming to continually shift. And somehow end up blowing square in their faces no matter where they stand. "Lets take it slow and steady. It's four miles to the most likely camp site. Keep an eye out for crevasses and make sure you're footing is sound," he urges. Unnecessarily really. He's hardly with a novice afterall. But old habits die hard.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' His own smile might be brief, but Jessica's is bright and happy. Nothing better than a good, on-the-same-page fistbump, in her books. Of course, that smile probably won't last long against that bitter cold. The warning Steve gives might not be that unnecessary. For all that Jessica's traveled extensively and even spent time in Greenland before on a mission, she's only dwelled in snowy, icy conditions like this long enough to know she loathes it and wants out as soon as possible. If she had the chance, she'd probably run at full speed, so his caution is wise. "Right. Don't fall down cracks and step where you step?" seems like the safest outcome. Plus, following in his wake means not only that he gets to set the pace but Jess gets the (occasional) relief from the wind when it changes enough that he's blocking it temporarily. She'll take it. It's a good sign of her discomfort that Jess doesn't even offer quips after that. At full pace, they'd probably be able to do the distance in well under ten minutes. However, the wind, and a few open crevasses that force them to travel far around or leap over them slows the whole process considerable. Fortunately they have plenty of 'night' so don't really have to worry about how long it takes.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' He is Captain America afterall. He's run his fair share of operations in the cold and snowy terrain of Northern Europe. And yes, even Greenland before. While he might not loathe the cold quite to the same level as Jess -- and would be less likely to vocalize it even if he did -- chances are good he won't object to wrapping this particular Op up as quickly as possible and get back to somewhere with a reasonable temperature. Or at the very least get the tent setup and get out from the wind. That would be a good start. He doesn't object to cutting the path even if that means occasionally serving as a windbreaker. For some it would be a little eerie, to be out here, with almost no trace of natural light but eyes do adjust rather well when there is no man-made light to leave them nightblind and soon enough he is picking up the pace -- just a little bit -- the spikes on the bottom of his boots securing his footholds. But there's no running, no sprinting, no matter how tempting it is to rush on to their ultimate destination. Steve sets a very methodical, safe pace, leading them around those tricky little canyons where they aren't narrow enough to be safely hurdled. In the end, it is almost two hours of hiking through the cold, windswept dark until they crest a little rise and have a clear vantage point of the research station below. Assuming it actually is a research station. "There," he says, pointing over the edge of that cliff-facing. "This will be a good observation vantage point. And if we setup the tents back there by those mounds they should blend right in with the terrain. Even if they have surveillance flights or satellite coverage we can probably avoid detection."

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' For all that Jess has exceptional hearing, her eyesight wasn't enhanced by the genetic experiments on her. So all she has the very annoying howl of the wind, muffled somewhat by the hood of her coat and the scarf, and an unerring ability to step so lightly in Steve's footprints that it would appear to anyone observing that he walked entirely alone. Good bet she's impatient at the pace, but she doesn't voice it at least, trusting Steve to be doing so for good reason. By the time they make the camp she looks miserable and wholly relieved they have something of a distraction from the dull drone of the wind and the freezing temperatures. The cluster of buildings probably, long ago, started out as temporary structures, but over time as more people have passed through the station, and more funding obtained, it's been expanded into more permanent structures. There's no windows anywhere, and proper airlocks to better keep the heat internalized; multiple structures are strung together to create a haphazard circular structure with a large dome in the middle. Right now, there's no activity at all. "Sounds good. I can set up a motion sensor here to alert us when there's any activity. I'm not sure how long it will last in these conditions, but it beats standing out here all night." Jessica's frowning in concentration, and only belatedly tracks Steve's words with an incredulous look. "Wait, tent/s/? We're not sharing one for body heat? Do you want me to end up like Jack in the Shining?" Hopefully he's seen it, if not it's a wasted image.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Layers upon layers. Jackets, sweaters, scarves, knit caps, all of it. Even with that super serum coursing in his veins Steve is glad for it. But then he knows he has no natural immunity from the cold. Decades in ice are a pretty good reminder of that fact. As she suggests putting out early warning sensors, the blonde man -- not that any trace of it can be seen thanks to that cap and hooded jacket mind -- nods his head in agreement. "Agreed. We'll have to trust to them. We can change them up each day if we need. I brought spares," he adds. That's the boy scout in him again. Just a bit of planned prevention can be a whole lot more valuable then trying to deal with a mess after the fact. He studies the encampment down below for a moment, the little hints that suggest that this was not originally intended to be a permanent center. THe improvisations, the additions that have sprang up over time. It's one thing to look at satelitte imagery. But the view from the ground is always different. Always informative. Finally however even he turns away, cataloguing the things he's noticed, that bear a little more scrutiny mentally. That indignation brings a brief smile to Cap's features and he turns back, starting to shrug out of his pack, depositing it on the ground as he begins to fish out the tightly packed tent there. "These aren't exactly your standard tents from the sporting goods store Jess. They're heated for one. But yes, we can share one for the extra heat and so we don't strain the power supply," he says simply. "But we have enough sensitive electronics and limited enough space that storing them in the second will help safeguard and extend their life out in this much cold," he adds. "So please, don't come at me with an axe," he says with a faint grin.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' A tent for the equipment? It's not a thing Jess would've thought of, and frankly she's distracted -- and relieved -- by the notion the tents themselves are heated. "Thank god," she breathes. "I like having fingers and toes." She follows Steve's lead, happy to be moving. She shrugs out of her pack. With her gloves, it makes unpacking things super awkward, but she's not yet willing to strip her gloves as she unloads some of the sensors and the little low-slung frames to rest them on and keep them off the snowy ground. She flashes him a not-very-reassuring grin. It's a true Jess grin. "I think you're fine. Redrum is not in my bingo card. That said I totally get why Jack went crazy. The isolation. The cold. Being in your own head for so long." And yeah, right around /there/ she realizes the faux-pas of speculating about such to someone who literally was by himself in the ice for decades. Her mouth flutters open, eyes widening. "Um. Sorry. That was... insensitive. Even for me." Jess crunches away over the snow a few steps to crouch and work on setting up those sensors.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Yeah, Steve might have a little experience with that. Is he completely over that experience? Can one ever really get over going down into freezing waters, feeling the darkness settle in? And then waking up decades later when almost everyone you knew and loved is gone? Debatable. But Steve doesn't seem to take the faux pas personally, simply offering a wry smile instead and a small shake of his head. "I know what you meant Jess, not to worry," he assures her, doing a quick lookover the equipment to make sure that nothing has come unsettled in the travel to the camp. "Hopefully we won't be out here long enough to worry about that." With the first tent looking to be in good shape, he moves it back towards those mounds, the thick, white material blending in remarkably well with the ice and snow, inflating rather rapidly to form a dome-shaped enclosure with a tight seal up front. The power supply is hooked up and a warm glow begins to spread through out the material, radiating inwards. Hurray for technology. As Jess contnues to plant the sensors, Steve begins setting up that second tent beside the first.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' This sucks in so many ways. Not that Jessica putting her foot in her mouth is at all unusual. Even with Steve's reassurances her shoulders are hunched, clearly aware of all the awkward ways of her default manner. "From your lips to whatever ice-deities' ears," she mutters, fervently. Finally, making an annoyed noise, she uses her mouth to pull off one of her gloves so she can set up the last few sensors. It makes the work quicker for sure, though her bare hand probably doesn't appreciate the expediency as she shoves it back into the glove. "Sensors are set up. I'll set up the alarms inside," she tells Steve as she scoops up her pack, carrying it inside the first tent. The lack of wind makes the temperature immediately, immensely better, and Jess breathes a sigh of relief. She takes off her goggles and unwraps the scarf, just blowing on her hands for a moment to get feeling back into the one before she locates the clear glass pad to pull up the configuration for the sensors. Resting it on the pack, she bends over and works on it, testing the alarm -- a soft beep -- before she makes a noise of satisfaction. "That should be good. We'll trade off watches?" she suggests, whenever Steve arrives.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' With the first tent taken care of it doesn't take that much longer to get the second one up and running as well, the advanced power supply spreading that warm glow through it as well, though at a slightly lower level. Both to conserve power and because they won't be spending nearly as much time in there. It is still somewhat slow and clumsy work, especially with gloves on, limiting that manual dexterity some, but Steve just soldiers on. Because that's what he does. It is then a matter of unpacking everything that they don't specifically need for the other tent into this one, storing away the explosives and electronic gear, stacking things up neatly around the outer edge so that it is accessible and easy to reach. Only once everything is nearly laid out does he crawl back out into the cold, the chill a little more biting after the relative warmth within the enclosure. All the more reason to hurry into their main dwelling on this mission. He might be less inclined to complain about the conditions, but that doesn't mean that he's going to linger any longer then necessary. "Okay, gears stored and set up," Steve says, crawling into that domed shaped tent that might be their home for the next few days. "Perfect. And yes, good plan. I brought some cameras as well that we'll be able to set up, get some alternate views. Though again, they might not last as long as they would back in more reasonable temperatures, he says, tugging off his gloves and rubbing hands together.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' The blast of cold air when Steve comes into the tent has Jessica wincing, turning her face away until it dies abruptly. "Thanks, Steve. Also, I decided while I was gone I'm definitely bending Tony's ear when I get back about my costume not having an inbuilt heating system. Like, why not?" Probably because she ends up drenched by water or something else at /least/ once a week with her notorious spider-luck, but who's counting? "Yeah, I'm not too hopeful about the equipment. Thinking maybe once-per-hour physical checks during darkness, going up to every fifteen minutes during the daylight hours? We can alternate those, so we don't freeze our nu- fingers, off," Jess half-coughs, setting the glass panel to rest against the wall near the exit. She still has to unpack her bag, digging into the top of it and pulling out a couple of MRE's. "So, uh, you want tastes-like-bland-chicken or definitely-doesn't-taste-like-beef? Both washed down with some whiskey." Yeah, she's definitely pulling that out and keeping that here. Important stuff!

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Hey, Steve has no doubt that Tony will only be too happy to look at her costume and make all sorts of changes. He lives for tinkering. Of course what she gets might end up more troublesome then what she has now, with a whole array of new, undocumented additions that will have an assortment of effects. It's daring. It's risky. Better her then him. Lips twitch slightly at that but Steve just dips his head. "I mean, chances are that he can whip something up I'm sure," the blonde super soldier agrees. "Just make sure that you keep him on a short leash and he doesn't start loading you down with extras." Because he will. So many little gadgets. Gadgets to make your head spin. Shuffling off to his half of the space, Steve rolls out his sleeping bad before settling himself cross-legged atop of it, glancing at the MRE's with a wry shake of his head. "I'd hoped I was done with these. Lets have the bland almost chicken. We can save the definitely not beef for a special occasion," he suggests wryly.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Yup, Jessica's definitely not looking forward to all the little gifts and surprises Tony tends to build into his creations. It's one of the reasons she sticks with what is a surprisingly no-tech costume for a superhero that's part of the Avengers. "Keep Tony on a short leash? TONY? Are we talking about the same man? Billionaire, genius, playboy Tony? That one?" Even with her incredulousness, it's clear Jessica's amused and all so knowing. "I mean, if I do I'm fully expecting to come out of it with a rocket pack, grenade launcher arms and possibly some kind of mobile milkshake maker." Or maybe that's just wishful thinking. Jessica leans to hand over the MRE, chuckling as she sets the bottle down between them. "It's funny, you know. All these years of technological innovations and they can't get the taste of chicken right." She tears open her own packet, sucking briefly at the contents with a wrinkle of nose. Her brow crinkles in curiosity before she asks, "Did it taste different in the forties? Or is that not really a thing you can remember?" A beat, before she thinks to ask, "Is it okay to ask you that?" Checking on boundaries is a new thing. Her therapist would be proud! She shoves her pack down one end of the tent, using it as a makeshift chair to lean against.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Jessica Drew is totally posing this just to hold the scene open for now.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Okay, it is probably not very realistic that anyone would be able to rein in Tony for long, or completely. Perhaps in small bursts. And when it comes to technological marvels he does tend to let his enthusiasm kind of carry him away. So perhaps it is better to not give him free rein -- or really, any rein at all -- if one doesn't want to be completely overwhelmed by whatever he comes up with. "You might have a point," Steve conceeds wryly, taking care of his own MRE casually, well accustomed to them even after all this time. "Though I would have thought that the possibility of a mobile milkshake maker alone would have been lure enough for you to at least give it a try," he points out with just a hint of a smile. Maybe some rewards just come with too high a price. The question of whether it is okay to ask him a question like that gets a casual wave of the hand and Steve smiles once more. "It's fine. I've pretty much come to terms with that whole thing," he admits. At least to all outward appearances. "I mean, they're a little more sophisticated, that's for sure and a whole lot more variety. Or attempted variety," he offers up, making a bit of a face. "But no, the whole taste thing is only moderately more accurate really," he conceeds with a small shrug. Then that pack is opened and heated and Steve digs in, settling in to begin the long process of surveying the site.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' A mobile milkshake maker? Jessica's face gives a twitch. She's trying /hard/, for like ten whole seconds. "Oh god I would love that," she totally breaks. Her voice is even plaintive. "I would totally lug the extra weight around. I am so talking to Tony when we get back." So yeah Steve totally won that one, but at what cost? Probably years of complaining about her new costume design. "They all taste the same to me," Jessica admits, with a wrinkle of her nose. "Hence why burgers and whiskey is always on the cards for the flight home." That might not be the only reason. Even with short missions she does it. It's just one of those rewarding things she does because she can. For now, though, she'll have to live with the dull-by-comparison MRE, settling down for a nap after she finishes. Meanwhile, their surveying proves fruitful. Every time the sun rises, shortly thereafter, a man in a puffy bright red coat walks outside and does a full perimeter check. Only he's not checking for visitors, he appears to be inspecting the outside of the buildings, spending particular time at the metal communications tower, sometimes even bending to inspect the insulated piping that appears to run between it and the main buildings. His posture, manner of walking, and general bearing doesn't have the hallmarks of military. Not a strict one, anyway. Not fifteen minutes later, a group of scientists -- and they appear to be that, rag-tag and undisciplined, loudly arguing amongst themsevles -- heads out in a group, headed north-west. With a shivered groan, Jessica volunteers to follow the group while Steve continues to watch the base. A second group comes out, but they don't stray far from the base and Steve can watch them. They seem to be drilling deep and collecting ice-samples. Both groups return before the sun fully sets, a mere six hours later. Jess returns too, complaining of cold and their apparent fascination with ice. It's what happens when it gets dark again that gets more interesting. A lone figure slips out of the cluster of buildings. He's wearing night-vision goggles, occasionally checking a faintly glowing instrument he has. It's Steve that trails him this time, and spots the man picking up a small package, turning off what seems to be a transponder, and tucking the package into his bag. He looks around quickly and hurries back towards the dome. Steve's dealt with enough Hydra agents to recognize one on sight.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Even Steve is capable of making the occasional mistake. No one is perfect afterall. Encouraging her to consider the merits of a mobile milkshake maker as part of her costume was perhaps not the wisest course. If only because there is no way that Tony will have the restraint -- or good sense -- to realize that is probably not the best of ideas. No, he is far more likely to throw himself headlong into the pursuit of designing just that. He is very keen on the question of can something be done. The question of whether or not something *should* be done is far more likely to fall by the wayside. "I can tell them apart. Mostly. Some of them are even decent. But they don't exactly replace a real meal, no matter what the packages say," the blonde super solider agrees drily. By the end of this mission even he might be looking forward to burgers and whiskey on the flight back. One only hopes that they have something to celebrate when the time comes. Settling in for observation is not exactly the most exciting work, even more so when it involves going out into the freezing cold but Steve at least never complains when it is his turn, unsurprisingly going about his business, seeing that what needs to be done is done. They do have their own equipment checks to do as well, to make sure that all that surveillance gear continues to work in proper order in the biting cold up here on a virtual ice shelf. And the question of whether or not it will pay off is very much at top of mind. At least at first. Those initial observations don't seem to show anything at first, at least nothing out of the ordinary, and it is only when he trails that solitary figure in the middle of night that it becomes clear that something is wrong. Returning back to their own encampment, he slips inside the tent, checking to see if Jessica has anything to add. "It's possible that the camp is legitimate and there are only a few Hydra agents amongst them, but there is no doubt that they have a presence here. Maybe someone just to keep an eye on them. Did you notice anything on the cameras?"

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' Several of the monitoring sensors and cameras do indeed need maintaining -- a handful die after the first day, though some of those work again after they 'warm up' inside the tent. Jessica's seated cross-legged in the tent, looking at the screens, when he returns. No doubt she caught his return on the motion sensors, hence her relaxed air -- not even looking up at the cold swirl that gets invited in with his return. Just a grimace and shiver. "I saw the guy briefly as he left, but it was like he slipped into the shadows. Couldn't see him through the cameras. You think he's Hydra?" Really, who else would be wandering around in the dark on a frozen ice shelf. Except, you know, them. "I had to listen to scentists /science/ for like five hours straight. They're definitely not play-acting. My guess is they're just using the existing base as cover. Probably a good bet they have a base within a base. So we just got to get in there and search." Easy, right?? Jess squints at Steve. "How good are you at sciencing?" and then she shakes her head. "Nevermind. Even I can only bluster that so far. We can go in as a documentary crew. I could interview, you could run the camera?" Her head tilts. "That, or... well. We could just sneak in. In a remote place like this they wouldn't lock the doors. Just got to wait until the hour of the wolf." Of course she looks at Steve because, well. It's just habit to defer to him as the leader to make a decision.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Fortunately for them both there is no doubt in Steve's mind about that person and just who and what they are. Some people might equivicate. That's not really in Steve's nature. "He was Hydra. Not a doubt in my mind," he says with the flat tone that has absolutely no doubts about it. Some things it's good to be sure about. "And I suspect that you're right. They're probably looking to hide in plain sight on this one, infiltrate the legitimate team and meanwhile keep a sub-base hidden within. It would help explain why SHIELD hasn't had much luck tracking them down. To outward appearances, especially just satellite surveillance, it would be almost impossible to pinpoint that," he says quietly. That's why sometimes you simply just need boots on the ground. There's just no way to beat the up close and personal touch. "Mmmm, I'm probably not going to be able to pass as any sort of reputable scientist," Steve admits. His knowledge has come a long way since he first awoke here in this time, but he definitely trails behind those who were born in bred in the modern era, at least in some key respects. "The documentary team would probably be the safest way to do it," he adds. But that means waiting, sending out false requests, or at least forging something that might trick the locals. Extra days in the freezing cold. Extra days while Hydra does who knows what. "I think we should go in under the cover of dark. We can do it tomorrow night. It keeps them from having too much extra time to do, well, whatever they are up to out here. And we don't have to sit out here for days longer to make things look good by going in under cover. Besides, it's Hydra. They'll probably both feel better if they can just slug any enemy agents they find instead of playing dumb.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' "Yup. They're good at that. Hiding in plain sight." Jess doesn't even bother to hide the bitterness that briefly surfaces. Just brushes past it as she lowers the screen she's looking at to look at Steve as he works through the options. "We could mess with their communications tower and go in as the documentary team. Wouldn't be hard to bluster it, and it's not like they're going to turn us away." It would still raise suspicions though, make it certain there would be at least some eyes on them. But Steve has good instincts and heck, Jessica's a spy at heart. She just grins when he suggests they go in cover of dark. "Done. We can find somewhere to stow the gear. Hopefully somewhere you can easily remember. I get turned around in this weather so easily." Regardless, she's bringing those explosives she packed along with her. She just likes options. The day, such that it is, passes quickly -- with the same groups of scientists heading out, and Jessica, once more, going to follow them just in case. Judging by her expression when she returns it was more boring science stuff. Come four AM local time, all is quiet across the base. They can pack up the tents and equipment and stow it somewhere, or leave it in place as a location to retreat to. Either way, everything is dark and quiet when they approach -- and enter. Power is, of course, a consideration, and they pass through a air-lock type structure designed to keep the heat in. There's minimal lighting on inside, but they'll emerge into the largest dome which looks to be a combination of equipment and specimen storage. Radiating off the primary dome are several sub domes -- laboratories, sleeping quarters, a kitchen and mess hall and some private offices. There's also a couple of additional storage domes that aren't specifically heated. It's one one of those domes that Steve will find it -- it's a slight, unexpected flow of air from the floor -- a secret entrance leading down a silver ladder into darkness.

:'''{{#var:112|Captain America (112)}} has posed:''' Sometimes the simplest plans are the best. And with luck, by going in during the dead of night they can keep the legtimate scientists from being involved at all. Insuring their safety has to come first afterall, no matter how much Steve might be looking forward to taking down the Hydra base and finding out any additional information they can about whatever projects they are working on. It is also why he will no doubt be keeping an eye on those explosives. He's confident that Jess wouldn't recklessly endanger the scientists. But this whole thing is pretty damned persona. For the both of them. But maybe even more so for her then him. Those wounds are a little fresher and more personal then even his own afterall. Once the dark has settled in, Steve is quickly bundled up once more, moving about their camp and going through the process of packing up everything once more. It is a little more complicated then back at the mansion unfortunately, especially given that they don't have JARVIS' help or supervision. But some enough everything is stowed away, tucked just to the outskirts of the scientific enclave below where they can easily grab it once they're ready to head back to the Quin jet. The constant observation over the past couple of days, the sneaking about has surely helped them find any likely vantage points for Hydra security, though to their benefit, they would no doubt have the same difficulties that the pair of Avenger's faced in that technology is just not well suited for the extreme cold faced here on a daily basis. And without any easy wy to maintain it, they probably don't have to worry much until they are inside. Slipping into the largest of those domes, Steve picks his way through quickly and quietly, surprisingly stealthy given his stature and keeping a close eye out for anything that looks like a trap. But soon enough they'r reaching that trap door, the blonde super soldier signalling to her silently as he carefully slides it open, peering down into that hatch before wordlessly motioning to her that he'll take the lead. Then, sliding his shield into place on his back, he moves to slip over the edge and start down that ladder towards that lone, low light at the bottom of that shaft.

:'''{{#var:1028|Jessica Drew (1028)}} has posed:''' For now, the explosives stay in her pack. She certainly doesn't intend to harm any of the scientists, but she also brought timers, and timers give options -- like a planned evacuation. Of course that brings with it a whole bunch of other problems, but that's future Jess's issue to deal with if need be. For all that Jessica has an exceptional sense of hearing, she only has normal sight, and the idea of that dark entrance and what might wait down there, knowing what Hydra does and is, is enough to give even Spider-Woman a little shudder. She doesn't say it, but she doesn't have to -- it's written in her face just how glad she is that Steve is going down there first. Wide-eyed, she nods at him, and follows -- even pulling the door closed after she climbs down. Wouldn't want one of those innocent scientists accidentally wandering into a Hydra base, after all. The climb down is long, but the further they go the more than can feel the change in temperature; from bitter cold where they first enter, to bearable warmth as Steve steps out into a faintly lit hallway. The place is kind of laid out, practically, like the one above -- storage equipment close to the entrance, then common areas, currently dark and empty, laboratories and sleeping quarters. The labs are bitterly cold, no attempt made to heat them, likely because they are home to a host of samples that span the entire wall. The lab has windows that open out into a secondary area -- full of large tanks. They range from small containers full of embryos, to what looks to be full-sized, fully-grown figures. Some are familiar. /Too/ familiar. There's a Jessica, and a Wanda, and yes, even a Steve. A pair of them in fact. Each of the tanks are monitored by a small facing device that seems to be networked to the computer system in the labs. Rarely is Jessica lost for words. Sure, she was kind of braced for this, but... it's worse than she thought. Her voice is barely a whisper. "...Steve? What do we do?" In terms of moral guidance, she's surely in need of some, because, "They probably have a sub-routine to purge these." Purge. Kill.
}}

15828/Another night at the Iceberg

2024-03-29T21:35:22Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/11/23 |Location=Gotham |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=11, 62 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' It's another night at the Iceberg, and Joker is drinking and /playing/ darts, cackling as he sinks one into the eye of a Batman picture. "Hahahaha blind as a bat, ya get it!?" He asks cackling as another dart lands in the other eye. :'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/11/23
|Location=Gotham
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=11, 62
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' It's another night at the Iceberg, and Joker is drinking and /playing/ darts, cackling as he sinks one into the eye of a Batman picture. "Hahahaha blind as a bat, ya get it!?" He asks cackling as another dart lands in the other eye.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Smirks but says nothing as she crosses her legs and looks over but she isn't really helping joker etiher she's being still cold with him.. not telling them to fuck is is a step in the right direction for him

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker smiles and walks over leaning in to kiss her gently. "Hey there Harls, you're coming around just as I said you would. Hahaha you can't resist me forever my little Harley you know that."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn rolls her eyes and sniffs " I like this place it has nothing to do with you " she wipes where you kissed " Ah said I wouldn't kill you when I see you that's it you ego maniac " she growls and huffs slamming her drink

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker smiles and places an arm around her. "No no no Harls, you said we'd work on us, as long as I started actually considering your opinions and letting you have more control of yourself, and I have and do. So quit being a stubborn brat, you know you love your puddin!"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Glares " So far it's all talk Mr j " she says simply " Lots of words no action " She huffs ' And I know you long enough to know you'll say one thing and do another.. so " she sticks out her tounge

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker laughs and holds up a garment back. "Harls I told you, you're coming home. You're my girl and I gave you my word didn't I? Here look!" He growls back.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Lifts an eyebrow and looks over wondering what he's trying to show as she Dosn't belive him with the whole my girl part least not right now

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker laughs and pushes the garment back to you. "Hahaha...come on open it Harls! You'll love it!" He laughs. "I swear it!"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Goes to grab it and check it out she does like presents to be sure so she quickly starts to unwrap it as fast as she can

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker smiles as she opens it so enthusiastically. Inside is one of the costumes she said she really liked the look of, made and sized for her! And wait is that a new giant mallet too??

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Blinks and sniffs " Awww Mr J you shouldn't have " She says looking it over as she beams a big smile okay it worked she loves goodies.. and these goodies are really nice .. she giggles and runs off to get changed!

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker grins pulling out a much larger box. "Ooohhh wait until she sees part two. Hahahahaha I dare say her reaction may be....explosive HA!"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn comes back witht he new hammer and outfit " TADAAAHH " She says with a twirl and spin even doing a cartwheel for old times sake " What you think? "

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker smiles and claps his hands. "Looks great and you're looking more like my happy loving Harls again it warms this cold heart. So you ready for gift number twoooo?" He asks holding out a massive box to her.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Blinks " There is a second one " she squeals and hops around beaming a big smile and makes grabby hands " Gimme gimme gimme " she says wanting the second one

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker laughs handing it over once opened shell see a giant, brand new, top of the line, highest of tech bazooka with ammo. "Well whaddya think Harls, are we back or what?"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Looks it over " it's sooo pretty " she says rubbing it before she looks to joker " Alright I'll do a job or two with you and see if your diffrent " She says simply " But I'm still not yours i've been burned too mcuh "

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker shakes his head and pulls you close. "You're my girl Harls look at all the lovely toys I can get for you." He cackles. "Let me in, clearly I've changed."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Sniffs " That's my offer you gonna take it ? "She lkooks at him " I'll do some jobs and we can see how things go okay? " She says holding out her hand

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker shakes his head. "Counter offer, you accept my proposed deal I get you all the toys and goodies your little heart desires, go with yours nope too...uncertain."

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Sniffs " Take it or leave it.. I do some jobs with ya.. I'll be on your crew but if your the same I'm outta here " She says simply

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker cackles loudly. "Oh goodie she's really learned to play hard ball." He smiles. "put her there." He says shaking her hand joy buzzer giving Harls a good shock.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Yelps and laughs she missed that part of him the silly part and she nods " Good " she says brightly as she picks up the bazooka and rubs her cheek on it " I'mma cover you in sparkles "

:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' Joker chuckles and jumps up and down cackling squirting Harley with water from his lapel flower. "Hahahahah a sparkly bazooka nice!"

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Grins " Were gona add glitter to the front of the warheads " She smirks " So like next level glitter bomb "
}}

15869/Post job Hijnx!

2024-03-29T21:35:11Z

PoeWolf: Shortest. Log. Ever.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/12/04
|Location=Ice Berg Lounge Gotham.
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=11, 62
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:11|Joker (11)}} has posed:''' The hour is late and the job they pulled went off without a hitch. For once in all the years they'd known each other Joker actually listened to Harley's ideas and opinions on the job, and hell Batman never even showed up. They're back at the Iceberg and Joker looks to her. "So that went well I told ya Harls I can value your opinion, and you were worried....hahaha!" He cackles adjusting his lapel flower.

:'''{{#var:62|Harley Quinn (62)}} has posed:''' Harley Quinn Looks at joker like he grew a second head.. She's confused like super confused.. He did what she suggested.. he didn't sabatoage the deal because it was going to smoothly he didn't do the whole agent of chaos or something like that.. he acutally did the job and now they have money.. She's stumped
}}

15822/Witchy Cat Training

2024-03-29T21:34:05Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/11/20 |Location=The Magic Box, Sunnydale |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=8808, 216 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' Training to become a wielder of witchers wasn't easy, and for Ivory it wasn't much easier because they were getting into it late. And there were many many aspects she needed to learn. Summoning, herbalism, alchemy, magical circles, glyphs, and even some spells that ac..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/11/20
|Location=The Magic Box, Sunnydale
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=8808, 216
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' Training to become a wielder of witchers wasn't easy, and for Ivory it wasn't much easier because they were getting into it late. And there were many many aspects she needed to learn. Summoning, herbalism, alchemy, magical circles, glyphs, and even some spells that actually were useful in shorter time... but it was still a lot to learn, and even having trained for a couple months by now, the best one could call Ivory was an amateur or beginner. Though they did manage with a little assistance, instruction and supervision... And now? Well, it was once more to the Magic Box... "Can I finally get the spells for intermediates?" Ivory asked to Sabrina, pointing to a tome bound in leather with the title on the spine. "You said if I am ready, but am I?"

:'''{{#var:216|Sabrina Spellman (216)}} has posed:''' Sabrina Spellman Looks over at her and smiles " Are you? ? She asks " Shall we run a little test for you ? " she grins " Take you through all the basiscs and once we've seen you can do all the basics without messing up we can see about moving up "

:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' Raising an eyebrow, they shrugged, then nodded. "Well, if you can think of something to see if I am ready, why not? After all, if I never take the test... I never finish, right?" Sighing they made a gesture to the tables, moving there and settling down.

:'''{{#var:216|Sabrina Spellman (216)}} has posed:''' Sabrina Spellman Nods her head " Alright " She grabs Snaps her fingers and you spot a candle.. " This is the candle of witches.. the same candel that's been used for thousands of years to test young witches.. I used it my aunt.. my grand mother " The canlde is kinda huge.. you can tell this thing used to be taller than you are! as she grins even now it's still like 5 ft tall candle " Test one.. light it "

:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' Ivory groans as it is *that* test again, but then they nod. Closing their eyes, they start to gather the power, slooowly leeching some of their own magical potential, gathering it first on the palm of their hand, then moving it to the candle's whick, ever so carefully compressing it. Trying to heat the wick, make it heat the wax and light it. It's not a fast method, but... it's what worked, right? Just... this was a different candle.

:'''{{#var:216|Sabrina Spellman (216)}} has posed:''' Sabrina Spellman Smiles There is no trick to this or anything to screw her up it's a simple test to seee if she has the basics.. Hell the candle helps you since it has magic inside it.. So she can clap when ivory lights ti and quickly puts it out " Good job " She snaps her fingers " You've shown magic control.. Good " She chuckles " now "She snaps again " Brew me a hair color changing potion "

:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' "Hair color changing... uh... Great... Can I use the book? I know that... There was... Thyme in it, but I can't remember the whole list. But I know how to do it with the recipe..." Ivory asks, moving to get a little cauldron and at least the utensils that were needed. "Lucky that I remember that the tonic only took about... ten minutes to do... not like that silly brew for hair growth you had me make that took three days and blew up in my face..."

:'''{{#var:216|Sabrina Spellman (216)}} has posed:''' Sabrina Spellman Nods her head " Of course you can use the book the point is to see your skill to pull it off.. even I don't know all the potions by heart " she grins " Go ahead " she smiles and lets you choose .

:'''{{#var:8808|Ivory (8808)}} has posed:''' Grabbing the required book and searching the recipe, Ivory starts to prepare the tonic, the ingredients getting ground and mixed and stirred in the prescibed order as they ever so carefully heats the little cauldron on the tiny cooker. There's almost no moment in which they don't bite the lower lip, trying their darned best to not make a mistake, concentration all on the task at hand... As they finally finishes the mixing, they filter the liquid into a small beaker. "Your or my color?" they ask, pointing at the beaker, where a single hair would dictate the color the tonic does change to.
}}

15964/Low Key Night at the Club

2024-03-29T21:31:44Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/01/12 |Location=Club Evolution, Mutant Town |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=128, 8143 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' It's a slow evening tonight with a snowstorm outside that kept many people away. Which makes for a slow karaoke night in the usually busy and crowded nightclub. To Ishtar it is nearly completely empty which suits Lorna just fine. Not a huge social butterfly, she..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/12
|Location=Club Evolution, Mutant Town
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=128, 8143
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' It's a slow evening tonight with a snowstorm outside that kept many people away. Which makes for a slow karaoke night in the usually busy and crowded nightclub. To Ishtar it is nearly completely empty which suits Lorna just fine. Not a huge social butterfly, she is happy to enjoy the slow somber song currently playing on stage as she nurses a late night red wine.

:'''{{#var:8143|Copycat (8143)}} has posed:''' Copycat is one person snow dosn't bother.. then again when you can burn so hot you can roast a planet it's not hard.. so in she comes with her trench and no snow on her at all... that redhead looks around in her spikey outfit as she seems to take the not so populated place and it suits her just fine walking to the bar and ordering a drink

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane is at the bar herself, and it's noticeable when someone new walks in. She glances up from her drink, smiling and nodding to the newcomer, who seems somewhat familiar for some reason. "Hey..Have we met before? I remember the face, can't recall the name.." she smirks.

:'''{{#var:8143|Copycat (8143)}} has posed:''' Copycat Looks over and blinks then looks down " Oh shoot hold on " she shifts slowly changing back to her normal blue self.. she laughs " Sorry about that.. I had the mask up and forgot I kept it on " .. No longer looking like a redhead supermoodel.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane chuckles and points. "Copycat! I remember you now. How you been, still hanging with the Xmen?" Lorna apparently doesn't hang out that much at the mansion herself it seems. Not lately, anyway. Or she wouldn't be asking that. So what's new with you?"

:'''{{#var:8143|Copycat (8143)}} has posed:''' Copycat Grins brightly " I'm good .. I've been teaching the kids mostly not so much hanging with the xmen.. they do thier thing I mostly teach " She laughs " I stay with my girlfriend really "

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane arches a brow, "Ooh, you're a teacher there? That's pretty cool, what do you teach?" she smirks and shrugs, "So who is your girlfriend? Is she one of the Xmen too?" she asks with a hint of curiosity as she sips her drink.

:'''{{#var:8143|Copycat (8143)}} has posed:''' Copycat Laughs " She was not anymore.. it's firestar ' She says softly as she cocks her head " I'm not a science teacher.. I teach cooking " she says brightly " I grew up working in alot of kitchens when I wasn't on the street.. cause " She points to her blue face.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane chuckles, "Firestar, oh yes, I met her briefly..She helped me out recently when Spiral was wrecking havok the other day..I have yet to thank her." she smiles, "She seems nice.." as for cooking, Lorna smirks, "Sounds like a useful skill to learn, Heck, I could stand to take a few lessons. I'm sure Alex is tired of me burning food." she smirks.
}}

15963/Post Battle Chillout

2024-03-29T21:31:13Z

PoeWolf: Faith and Thomas discuss family.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/12
|Location=Apartment, the Blue Lady
|Synopsis=Faith and Thomas discuss family.
|Cast of Characters=39, 7044
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' It's pretty damn cold out there tonight, and not the best night for patrolling. But a Slayer's gotta do what a Slayer's gotta do. She was supposed to meet Thomas for dinner but looks like she's running late. Either that, or she's a terrible appointment keeper. And the winter storm is getting worse out there..

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith drums his fingers on the counter beside the rapidly cooling lemon zested chicken breast and steamed asparagus. He picks up his phone and thumbs "RUOK? Food? IDK if u forgot or SCU?" Yep Thomas texts like a hyper caffeinated 14 year old girl. He then checks that the rest of the food is still good to go.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Several minutes go by in silence before eventually '5by5' shows up on his phone screen. About ten minutes later, Faith stumbles in, teeth chattering, a bit banged up and bruised and cut in places as if she just came out of a battle of sorts. Seriously she needs to dress warmer for the weather, but maybe she doesn't have anything better than her worn denim jacket, even if she tries to warm up with a worn cream cable knit sweater underneath, and a red hat and a scarf all of which look well worn.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith smiles a little as she comes in. He doesn't comment on how rough she looks, simply pours her a large cup of coffee and passes it over, "Want to use the shower and get some circulation back into your fingers before we eat?" he asks, adding a not very small splash of Jack Daniels to the coffee before handing it over. Once she takes it, he moves to put the finishing touches on the food, "If I offered to buy you some thermal clothes you'd just scoff at me and tell me you don't need my help, right?" He asks in an almost playfiul tone.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane sighs, stretching her arms, "Gettin' too damn cold! don't even know what the heck I just fought out there, some kinda ice woman..As if we didn't have trouble enough tracking down that cockatrice.." she shivers and shakes her head, "Well screw it,s Gould have brought a flamethrower..." The idea of thermal underwear causes her to arch a bemused brow. "Oh yeah? Too restrictive. I need something both warm and. sexy." she grins and winks seductively at him. The spiked coffee is gratefully accepted and she carefully sips it, hugging her hands around it as she tries to get feeling back in her fingers. "Mm, smells good.'

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith smirks a bit, "Spoken like a White Courtier. And people wonder at how we have so much chemisty." He says with a smile, starting the potatos... they are instant, but hell they taste better then real potatos for a 1/10 the work. "so you were fighting Elsa out there?" he asks curiously.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane smirks and shrugs, "Hey, I ain't no stinkin ' demon...Present company excepted but, im demon bane. I doubt I was a demon in any former life." she wrinkles her nose, knowing he is technically a human with a demon parasite but details, details.. Slowly sipping her hot cocoa as she sits at the kitchen table, Faith sighs and shrugs, "Dunno, first the stone chicken, then Elsa? I wonder if those sorcerer vamps are sending them to try and get the scythe back or something? But hey, next time I'll be prepared, just hope Harry and Willow got the wards up on the magic box."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith nods slightly, "I should really have them come over and put some up on the apartment if possible, but I don't know how it'll affect my anti magic security on the club, not to mention I doubt my Threshold is better then tissue paper, so not sure they'd have anything to build on.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane hmms, "So how's that work anyway? Wards and shit? I dunno much about em but I thought they dint work too well on public areas or something?" she smirks, "The way my landlord came and went to my dump of a hotel I couldn't imagine a ward keeping him out.." she peers around, "What about this place? it got wards? what's stopping a demon from porting in here or breaking and entering?"

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith shrugs. "Harry could explain it better then me, but the best I can explain it is Wards are like magical landmines, and if you can't or don't take them down properly, they can go 'ker-splodie' all in your face." at her second question he just shakes his head slightly, "No, like I said you need a threshold to tie them to. This is an apartment, over a business, not to mention the sheer quantity of... guests... I've had here over the years. I don't have allot of threshold to build wards onto.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane groans, "Well ain't that fun? I mean, I'd like to see that some time..Good thing you're sleeping with a demon slayer huh." she grins and winks wickedly. "Guess you're pretty much stick with me from here on in.."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith grins and says in an overly dramatic fashion, "Oh the burdon is so much to bear. And we both know your only interest is using my beautiful body to sate your carnal desires." He says with a grin, handing her a plate, "Well that and my cooking."

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane smirks, grabbing the plate, "Re you telling me you don't enjoy the company fir the same reasons? Not to mention I pulled you up when you were falling down a deep dark hole? Guess you owe me one any way." she winks.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith raises an eyebrow, taking his own plate. "Oh? Are we keeping score of who has saved who now?" He asks with a slight grin, taking a large bite of his food and tilting his head. "So to be clear, you'd have no interest in having Harry and Willow over for like a couples night right? Too Domestic?:

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane chuckles, bemused, "Yeah, maybe I am, bad habit what can I say?" mention of a normal domestic setting has her laughing even harder, "Seriously? you think we're a married couple or something? That's seriously..." her smile fades as if she's actually pondering it. "You know..I've never really been part of a..Family before.."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith shrugs. "I've been part of more then one, and let me tell you it can be some of the best or worst experiences of your life. No one can hurt you like family, because no one can love you like family." He says with a smile and a shrug. "Tell you what, I'll float the idea by Harry and see what he thinks. Maybe we cann all have dinner and play a board game or something. I know this great one that takes place in a Zombie Apocolypse if you want something realistic.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane frowns, "Sounds kinda cozy..Heh, I was always jealous of Having a kid sister and mom to complain about. Heck, I hardly remember my abusive alcoholic dad and neglectful mom.." she shrugs. Mention of a Zombie Apocalypse does pique her interest and she smiles, "Ooh, sounds fun..Count me in!"

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith smiles, "I'd love to introduce you Inari some time, just remember that she is currently unaware of the Spooky side of things, and I could get in a lethal amount of trouble if that changed." he says with a nod. "I barely remember my mom, she took off when I was four. I was mostly raised by Lara." He shrugs slightly, "but you've got Family now. Me. Harry, the other members of the Paranet.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' "Inari? I think you mentioned her once or twice..Your sister? Sounds sweet, I'd like to meet the rest of your family too, although if they cause me trouble you know I'd have to slay them." she grins wickedly and winks. Knowing Faith, it's hard to tell if she seriously would kill 'em all cuz they're basically evil vampires.

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith smirks a little bit, "That could be interesting to watch. Of course, Lara and my Father are both signifficantly more dangerious with their Hunger then I am, and my other sisters are about on my level. You sure you could handle that? I'd hate to have to buy you back off of Lara because she made you her love slave."

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane laughs, maybe a bit to cockily. "Got the Slayer Scythe now and I'm itchin' to use it..Or have you forgotten?" she shrugs a shoulder, "Of course I wouldn't kill your family..Unless you wanted me to, just say the word."

:'''{{#var:7044|Thomas Raith (7044)}} has posed:''' Thomas Raith shrugs, "The only reason I would not have you kill my father is that it would create a massive power vaccum in the White Court. You met my cousin MAdrigal at Splattercon!!!? Well I promise you that Contessa Malvora or Lord Skavis make him seem like something from a Goosebumps novel.

:'''{{#var:39|Faith Lehane (39)}} has posed:''' Faith Lehane rolls her eyes. "Geez I almost forgot about that bastard. So the rest of your family is equally as unhinged? Guess it's best if I stay away from them then.." she hungrily scarfs down dinner between words, clearly hungry and still not totally used to the luxuries of this place.
}}

15948/Ringing In The New Year

2024-03-29T21:30:45Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/01/03 |Location=Library - Wayne Manor |Synopsis=Something super clever goes here. |Cast of Characters=104, 154 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' For many people, maybe even most people, New Year's Eve is a chance to get together with family and friends. To celebrate the past year and look forward to the upcoming new one in the company of those that matter most. Or hey, maybe just party. I..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/03
|Location=Library - Wayne Manor
|Synopsis=Something super clever goes here.
|Cast of Characters=104, 154
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' For many people, maybe even most people, New Year's Eve is a chance to get together with family and friends. To celebrate the past year and look forward to the upcoming new one in the company of those that matter most. Or hey, maybe just party. It is a given however that Batman is far, far from most people however. For him New Year's Eve is a night where more people tkae to the streets of Gotham City then most nights, making themselves vulnerable to all the threats in the city that would prey on them. So it has been another busy, eventful evening, creeping towards four hours past midnight when he finally emerges from the Batcave below, still running a towel through his hair and dressed only in sweat pants and a t-shirt. A far cry from the usually put together billionaire. And certainly not expecting company.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:''' But it is company that he is going to get. It is pretty hard to surprise Bruce of course, at almost any time, but she managed to get Alfred on her side which helps a great deal, at least when it comes to catching him offguard in his own home. Her own evening hasn't exactly been a quiet one either and in the end she played three different shows in three different cities, entertaining hundreds. And putting away a not insignificant payday in the process. Maybe not everyone's idea of a magical evening, but then Zatanna has already made her own magic. It is not uncommon for her to be up this late -- one more thing that they have in common -- and when she hears him enter the library she steps into the shadows, murmurs a few words... and appears beside him, stepping out of another patch of shadows cast by the fire roaring in that huge hearth. Leaning in, she presses a kiss to his cheek and smiles. "Happy New Year's Bruce."

:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' It is not often that Bruce is taken by surprise -- and even less often that he would ever admit it even if he were -- but Zatanna does indeed manage to do just that with her stepping through the shadows trick. The towel that he is still running through his hair to finish drying it is very nearly dropped and he starts to whirl before abruptly relaxing at the feel of those lips on his cheek, the familiar voice murmuring those words. "Happy New Years Zanna," he returns quietly, a wry smile sliding over his features. "It's late. About the last thing I expected was to see you tonight," he says drily, slipping a hand into hers and starting to lead her towards one of those comfy sofas arrayed out by the fireplace.

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:''' "I know," Zee replies, her mouth quirking upwards ever so slightly in amusement as she lets her fingers lace with his, following him towards the fire laid out by Alfred earlier. "That's why I figured that I could catch you off guard," she points out impishly. Sinking down onto the couch cushions, that warm smile lingers on her expression, half turning as she settles herself to better face him. "Busy nigh?" she asks casually. Probably unnecessarily. It almost always is, afterall.

:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' "Mission successful then," the dark haired billionaire conceeds drily. The warm glow of the fire is something he frequently seeks out after his nightly patrol, probably more for the childhood memories of this room, no matter how bittersweet they might be now. "But if you tell anyone that I admitted that I'll deny it to my dying breath," he points out, amusement still coloring his words, the sort of tone that few others can bring out in him. He's kidding. Probably. "It's nice that you made the effort and it's always good to see you. No matter the hour. I trust that Alfred made sure that you had anything you needed? Something to eat? Drink?"

:'''{{#var:154|Zatanna Zatara (154)}} has posed:''' "I can always play back those words with magic Bruce. I have you on record. There's no getting away from it," Zee points out with a cheeky grin. Under the right circumstances she would probably go right ahead and do that too, if she felt it necessary for any particular reason. "Of course he did. You know Alfred. He's the best," she notes, patting the cushion beside her and arching a brow as she casts a grin up at him. "Come have a seat with me. I won't bite," she notes before adding teasingly. "Unless you ask nicely."
}}

15947/Mutants and Masterminds

2024-03-29T21:29:52Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/01/03 |Location=Wayne Tower One - Old Gotham |Synopsis=Something Clever Here. |Cast of Characters=104, 113 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' Generally speaking, when it comes to Wayne Enterprises business, Bruce Wayne prefers to leave such things up to Lucius Fox, outwardly playing a very minor role in the day to day decision making for the corporation that bears his name. But this is an..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/03
|Location=Wayne Tower One - Old Gotham
|Synopsis=Something Clever Here.
|Cast of Characters=104, 113
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' Generally speaking, when it comes to Wayne Enterprises business, Bruce Wayne prefers to leave such things up to Lucius Fox, outwardly playing a very minor role in the day to day decision making for the corporation that bears his name. But this is an unusual encounter. While on the surface it might be another fellow CEO stopping in for a visit, to discuss some mutual interests, Bruce Wayne is pretty good at digging beneath the surface. Or at least Batman is. Which is why he is sitting in his office, waiting for the infamous Emma Frost to be ushered into his office. His regular assistant has been given the day off and the normal swath of high ranking executives that would fill this floor all seem to be out and about.

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' In truth, when she originally booked this meeting Emma had done so with the intent of meeting up with Lucius Fox. Afterall, it is all but an open secret in the business community that while Bruce Wayne might be the CEO of his family's company, it is Lucius that does all the heavy lifting. So it was a slight surprise to find that her appointment had been changed, that she was not to meet the puppet on the throne himself instead. And while that might make it a little more difficult to achieve real results, Emma Frost is still very curious indeed. It isn't hard to detect the unusual preparations that seem to have gone into her visit, the fact that every prominent executive seems to be offsite, the faint confusion that radiates from the staff that remains behind, the surface thoughts practically broadcast, and as Emma steps into the office she smiles and practically purrs at the man behind the desk. "Ahhh, the infamous Bruce Wayne himself. I hadn't intended to take up any of your valuable time. Thank you for agreeing to meet."

:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' Of course, Bruce has not taken this meeting without taking a few precautions, not with the information that he has one one Emma Frost. And the fact that he has access to some pretty advanced technology thanks to the league. So the dark haired billionaire is all smiles as he rises from his desk to greet his guest, dipping his head towards her and starting to circle around. "Emma, so good of you to make the trip to Gotham. I'm so pleased that I happened to be in a position to take this meeting myself," he says cheerfully, managing to lie with his entire being so artfully. "So, what is it that I, or Wayne Enterprises, can do for you?"

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' Swaying forward, the blonde mutant extends a hand to him, taking his own if it should be offered as that pleasant smile never falters on those frosted lips of hers. Her brow does arch ever so slightly however as she nears. It might not be terribly polite of course, but by this point it is instinct. Even self-defense. She reaches out with her mind and finds... a void. Nothing. How... intriguing. Clearly there is a little more to this man then what she's been led to believe. "The pleasure is most definitely mine, Bruce," she purrs, nothing else reflecting her surprise showing up on her expression. "And most of it comes down to the fact that you and your company is a real leader here in Gotham. As you may or may not be aware I have a particular interest in mutants. Especially their welfare. And I was rather hoping that I might be able to talk you and your company into lending a little support for such initiatives here in Gotham."

:'''{{#var:104|Batman (104)}} has posed:''' Is that her real purpose here? It's plausible enough, given what the Dark Knight knows about Emma Frost and as he takes her hand in his own warmly, he purses his lips consideringly at her request. "I see," he says speculatively, motioning towards one of the chairs that sit before his desk, sinking down into the other and swivelling to face her, rather try some silly power move of taking a seat behind that massive desk. "I can understand that and it is certainly a worthy enough cause," he admits. "Though perhaps it might be better served through my personal charitable organization instead, the Wayne Foundation?" he suggests quietly. "What exactly did you have in mind?"

:'''{{#var:113|Emma Frost (113)}} has posed:''' It would seem that they both are going to take away some intriguing questions from this little tete-a-tete. Emma smiles charmingly as she sinks down into the offered chair, folding one leg atop the other -- and not inciddentally showing off her legs in that smart, if short, business suit. "Nothing too outlandish, I assure you," she says with practiced ease, casually steepling fingers in front of her and peering over top of them towards her host. "Having a few programs offered, perhaps a rec center dedicated to mutants in the city would all be nice. But if if carries the Wayne name with them? That is the real prize, as I'm sure you can see. A sort of instant legitimacy. A spotlight shined on the issue. "And as you say, it's a good cause. And you are known for backing good causes."
}}

15937/Log 15937

2024-03-29T21:28:59Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2023/12/31 |Location=Kitty's Room (North Halls), Xavier's School |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=296, 145 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:296|Kitty Pryde (296)}} has posed:''' Kitty Pryde has a Demon Queen-shaped problem. To be clear: it's not one of those 'Claremontian mind-control devils are making me do an Inferno!' situations. She doesn't even know what Claremontian means! It's more of a... 'Ho..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2023/12/31
|Location=Kitty's Room (North Halls), Xavier's School
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=296, 145
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:296|Kitty Pryde (296)}} has posed:''' Kitty Pryde has a Demon Queen-shaped problem. To be clear: it's not one of those 'Claremontian mind-control devils are making me do an Inferno!' situations. She doesn't even know what Claremontian means! It's more of a... 'How to make sure your best friend who also happens to be a Demon Queen doesn't slip off the slope into ultraviolent supervillainy' problem. No mind control is involved. ... Probably. You can never be too sure, with mutants. Kitty trusts Illy. It's just a matter of course for someone who knows her, and who she knows, better than anyone else in their lives. If she says she has to do something, and approached Kitty honestly about it... she has no reason to doubt that the blonde teleporter knows what she's doing. But with what Illy is planning to do, Kitty knows - surprisingly better than most - how easy it would be to hit that tipping point. And so Kitty's taken upon herself the role of acting as the angel on the devil's shoulder. Or her Jiminy Cricket. Except without the top hat. Or the Donald Ducking it choice of going pantsless. And she's not -that short-. And... The point is, she's looking out for her friend!! And the first part of that? Semi-regular check-ins! For morale! This can also just be called 'getting some chill time with your favorite person in the world' but it's great like that because it fills dual purposes. So it is for this reason Kitty got in contact with Illyana, making the ubiquitous friend offer to her to 'come hang whenever because i'm doing like nothing right now i'm so bored illy save me <INSERT DIZZYING SEQUENCE OF EMOJI INDICATING THE TRANSCENDENT TRAGEDY OF ENNUI HERE>'; the curly-haired brunette is currently holed up in her room with nowhere to go thanks to the holiday malaise (she might be Jewish, but it's still fun to enjoy a Christmas celebration, and just as boring in the gap of nothing-to-do after it). Dressed in a mild yellow sweater of thick wool and a thicker, frumpled turtleneck and a pair of dark blue denim pants, to help ward against the cold her feet are adorned in a pair of adorable black and red socks decorated with a slew of white mathematical formulae like chalk on a board. The math doesn't help. She just likes math. Currently, she's huddled up in her bed, watching a terrible reality TV show; she's technically already watched this season. Twice. Things are dire for Kitty Pryde. She needs salvation...!

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' What's a little murder in the name of macro-level self-defense between friends? ... an anxiety trigger, apparently. And unsurprisingly: Illyana went to the same high school Kitty did; she has lived in the same house as Kitty for most of her life. She has a pretty good sense of the campus/house's stance on murders committed by individuals who can't play the feral card (or the ninja card, or the timecop card...) to explain away the odd indiscretion, and moreso when all that spilled blood is unabashedly in the service of what was always meant to be a pure, peaceful ideal. The stupidest thing a person looking to get away with murder could ever do is tell someone practically raised with Xavier's dream at the forefront of their thoughts that they're planning to commit it, and Illyana wasted little time indeed in doing just that. Illyana trusts Kitty utterly, a distinction few others could claim despite the Queen of Limbo's long, loving relationship with the Institute and its denizens; it's the difference between trusting someone to catch you from a fall, and trusting them to catch, shelter, and care for you throughout the fall and its aftermath, all without judgement-- or running to find someone to talk, bargain, or force you out of falling to begin with. So when Illyana's phone is assaulted by emoji strings and invitations, she not only sees through the casual sheen, she makes certain not to leave Kitty waiting - worrying - for ''too'' long. "Disgusting," softly grazes Kitty's ear a beat after her bed begins to creak-- after an arm clad in sheet black reaches around her midsection-- after warm, familiar weight settles against her side. "Johnny Bananas is going to win," Illyana murmurs as a stepping disk closes behind her, squinting as a pair of mud-caked women wrestle over a baton while a dozen more contestants scream and cheer, "''again''--" A slight, thoughtful pause. "-- probably," then follows, because Illyana isn't the one who has already watched this season twice; she's simply lounged around with/on Kitty while it and other seasons played over the years. "I do not like that man," she hisses, frowning at the screen.

:'''{{#var:296|Kitty Pryde (296)}} has posed:''' Surprisingly, 'tragic Hell Lord' is not on the list of exception cards to play. The demonic bias at work in Xavier Institute is truly troubling...! Still, if nothing else, Illyana Rasputina can count on Kitty Pryde to let her play the Hell Queen Card with her. Having invited her Best Friend of Limbo over to begin with, she's not taken by surprise when she hears - and /feels/ - those soft words whisper into her ear this time. Really, she's grown so accustomed to phasing through whatever boundaries she feels like she's grown surprisingly comfortable with the similar boundary-cheating power that is teleportation. And she's not even doing anything embarrassing, this time! And so, her response is just a muted, instinctual shiver at feeling the tiny hairs in her ear being tickled, and a little, instinctive smile at the familiar voice -- that soon becomes a frown at that single word. "I swear I have a life--" she begins poutily and then realizes: "--oh you mean the show. Yeah. Ha ha! ... ha. Super disgusting!" Still, she settles in almost immediately to the abrupt, soft warmth pressing against her side; she slumps her weight into Illyana, shoulder bumping against shoulder until they've created a comfortable tentpole of supporting each other. Illyana's arm loops her midsection; Kitty's, her shoulders. ''I do not like that man,'' Illyana hisses. "Nobody likes that man," Kitty mutters darkly. "I think Lincoln is wrong. There's some people I would like even less getting to know them." Kitty gestures with the hand at Illyana's shoulders, pointing at the screen. "Like -that guy-. Do you know he screws over theeeeeeeuhhhhh" and realizing she's getting dangerously close to admitting she's watched this at LEAST once before, Kitty smartly pivots, "nobody, the nobody, I don't know what happens next." She lingers in silence for a few seconds longer, enjoying Illyana's warmth before adding: "He was even -worse- in House of Villains."

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' "A ''blindside''?" Illyana fills the space between realization and retreat with a wide-eyed gasp of utmost surprise. It's maybe 75% affected; loyalty is an important trait to Limbo Queens, and what's more disloyal than sending someone you met during a reality television competition into elimination? Without telling them?! (''Lots'' of things-- but just as osmosis has taught her to despise the Bananas dynasty, it's also imparted a healthy degree of disrespect for traitors and alliance-breakers.) ''He was even -worse-...'' just about passes the blonde woman by, busy as she is with resting her cheek against Kitty's shoulder and searching for the perfect viewing angle, if not for-- "He's awfully smarmy, and sneaky-- but an entire house? Of ''villains?''" she wonders, eyes widening a touch further and flicking up towards Kitty's. "On paro--" A beat passes as it begins to dawn that she's frolicking well beyond the limits of her Kitty-given knowledge of this world. Another follows as the tension her initial thoughts of a reality TV star being sent to participate in the Raft's very first such series inspired seeps away. "Yes," she then says, softly, "of course-- I can only imagine," and succinctly, hoping to simply skip past the misunderstanding. It's the sort of knee-jerk mistake she'd keep to herself on sheer instinct, anywhere else-- here, though? Soaking in the warmth of a friend too good to judge her worst impulses--? Things just have a way of slipping. "Anyway, let's look at the bright side:" she adds with a small, tight smile, "maybe he'll be made into a backpack again, instead." The smile doesn't last all that long, because it doesn't need to. Her head doesn't budge from its perch against Kitty, save for those brief moments when her cheek rubs against soft yellow fabric; the arm around Kitty's middle tightens, slowly but surely. Eventually, "Are you okay?" softly slips past ruby red lips.

:'''{{#var:296|Kitty Pryde (296)}} has posed:''' "A whole damn -blindside-!" Illyana gets it. Illyana gets -her-. Kitty feels the smallest swell of pride at having infected Illy with her guilty pleasure of trash reality. (and then the tiniest bit of shame in her words and deeds) "An entire house!" Kitty exclaims, shaking her head with the bounce of brown ringlets. "And he was one of the worsts! Okay, okay, like, -maybe- there were some objectively worse ones there. Like that Shake dude. But still!! He--" Kitty's rant briefly distracts her. It briefly -blinds- her, to the truth of Illy's sudden wide-eyed alarm. But then she suddenly halts. Her own hazel eyes widen as she digests something. That wonder. That alarm. That ''On paro--'' which was very likely parole because 'parody' and 'parous' don't make any sense i mean really before Illyana suddenly tries to make a smooth recovery. Kitty considers. Illy was graceful enough to look over -her- flub. She should do her the same kindness, she thinks. She should be kind to her dear friend. She should-- "Heh heh, you thought it was supervillaaaaaaaaaains~" Or she could just singsong that out instead while pinching Illyana's cheek, she could also just do that. "That's so cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuute[[User:PoeWolf|PoeWolf]] ([[User talk:PoeWolf|talk]]) 21:28, 29 March 2024 (UTC)" She pauses, mid-cheek pinching. Blinks. Considers. "... is it wrong that I think that'd be a really great show and I'd probably watch it like three times? Not that I. Do that. Shaddup!" Thus is Illyana's cheek released as Kitty expertly defeats her own self, mumbling a "i bet the rhino would be a breakout star" to herself in thought -- at least, until Illyana asks that question. She feels that arm tighten around her like a protective coil. She blinks. And her own fingers gently squeeze around Illyana's shoulder as she "mm"s softly. "I'm kickin' ass!" she insists, at first. "I mean, it's like, I'm kinda floundering a little, y'know? Like sometimes I think, should I really be doing something superfluous like going for a Master's degree when I could be using all that time towards something better? And then I think, what better thing could I do, when I'm already part of the X-Men? And then I wonder if I'm just spinning wheels and if we're not actually accomplishing anything and... and... ugh!" Abruptly, she sets her laptop on her knees and uses her freed hand to grab the blanket beneath them. The material phases as she yanks the whole, fluffy material through and then -over- them until the blanket is high in the air over their heads. She releases it; and that warm, large swath of cloth drapes over their heads, creating an impromptu blanket fort for just the two of them, like when they were so much younger. Only the glow of MTV's The Challenge on the laptop screen lights up the dark of their new fort as Kitty speaks again. "... And then I start worrying about you, too, and everything going on with you now, so I text you a billion times to come over because I miss you and you can squeeze your arm around me and tell me everything's gonna be okay and it makes my whole day better," she confesses in the confidential enclosure of their fort. "Or, like, make a really mean but really witty deadpan snipe about it. That'd work. I like you mean just fine too." A second's dash. "But don't tell anyone."

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' Kitty goes right for Illyana's weak point. Not the cheeks: pale and precision-sculpted, they're no more or less susceptible to aggression than the rest of her. Nor the pinching: without putting too fine a point on it, Illyana's pain threshold is distressingly high, even for a career superheroine. No, Kitty reaches through layered trauma and lost time, beyond boundaries and barriers designed to keep 99% of the world at bay and seizes the same soft, vulnerable piece of Illyana that compels her to offer up her future sins for consideration or commit the principles of competitive reality TV (non-crafting, non-musical, personality-based) to memory and seizes it in her fingers. She prompts a flurry of head-turning, squint-eyed, mindfully pulled flailing, the Demon Queen smacking ineffectually at Kitty's forearms several times before she tucks her hands between them and bears the rest of her punishment with pursed lips and arctic blue stoicism. Soon after, the pressure begins to relent-- ''... is it wrong that...'' "... obviously, I would watch it," she replies, low and resigned-- and settling back into place, upon being released from friendly torment. Settling begets silence, which leaves space for quiet questions-- which lead to updates-- "Just think: with a Master's degree, you could teach loud, difficult children ''anywhere'', not just here," is all the guidance she has to offer, paired with a firm squeeze and a soft cheek-peck to smooth some of the frustration bound in that final exclamation. -- and then the fort, with nothing but TJ Lavin's freak parade for light. "You have enough to worry about," she murmurs, gradually lowering her upraised arm and the part of the blanket that's draped over it until the latter's settled overhead, "without me-- everything ''is'' okay. It ''will'' be-- enough so that you may dither guiltlessly, at least," she softly offers.
}}

15986/Cooling Off

2024-03-29T21:27:55Z

PoeWolf: Lorna gets Alex to relax after a spat with the Xmen

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/22
|Location=Apartment A2 - Summers - Mutant Town
|Synopsis=Lorna gets Alex to relax after a spat with the Xmen
|Cast of Characters=128, 210
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' It's been a rough day but Lorna is determined to make the most of it. After spending some time in the park and blanking out, she decided to make some warm cozy vegetable stew to relax. Some candles have been lit to warm up the apartment some, while she changes into a cozy green satiny night shirt and matching fuzzy slippers. Looks like a storm rolling in and theres nothing better than curling up on the sofa with a nice hot bowl of soup and some hot cocoa by the fireplace. Now where's Alex..?

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Cold, pissed off and in an over all foul mood Alex storms into the apartment slamming the door behind him tossing his leather jacket and seeing the Mannequin with his suit on it aims and blasts his suit with a plasma beam.

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane sits on the sofa, sipping her hot cocoa when he storms in. She blinks in surprise, climbing to her feet. "Alex? What's wrong?" she frowns as she approaches him, looking him up and down as she tries to determine what's happened. Did he hurt himself or..?

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok snarls as the Mannequin falls over he moves to the fridge to grab a beer. "Those do gooders you want to help? Yea Forget them, Maybe we should form our own team and cut them out. They're too dumb to know what's right in front of them anyway."

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane arches a brow, pausing mid step. "Wait, are you talking about the Xmen?" she frowns, brow furrowed in concern, "What happened? It couldn't be that bad could it?" still, from the look on his face she suspects something bad went down in her absence.

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok shakes his head and pops his beer. "Let's just say those stupid jack asses, couldn't tell the fake you was fake. They were convinced fake you was real, Even Laura and Logan with their super sniffers couldn't tell. And Juggernaut showed up also thinkin you were her or she was you

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok says, "Oh and Tabitha is saying that you should find her to cheat because I don't deserve you or some shit."

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane blinks in surprise, and then annoyance. "What the hell?! Now she's gone too far!" now she looks annoyed, flinging her empty cocoa mug in the sink and reaching for a beer herself, "Come on, tell me what else happened. I don't imagine it gets much better from there but may as well get it all out." she smirks, "I'm sure you'll feel better after."

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok shrugs his shoulders taking a sip. "Who went too far this time? Just some kid got separated from her older brother and a bunch of other kids have gone missing and fake you seems to think she and I belong together, and because fake you can control ice Tabitha asked if you and Bobby had a daughter under everyone's noses, she needs to be cut from the teaching roster she's not a good role model for kids!"

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane nearly chokes. on her drink. "What. The hell. Someone oughtta out that brat in her place, and that's putting it lightly. Seriously? She seriously thinks I got back together with Bobby and under your nose like that?" she sighs, "But I'm sure you out her in her place. With comments like that though, you're right, she's definitely not teacher material. Might be worth having a chat with Scott about her." she sighs, reaching up to stroke his hair gently, "But it's all done and over now, let's just relax and try to make the rest of our night. Got some vegetable stew cooking, a nice fire burning in the fireplace, Let's make the most of it, hmm?" she folds her legs underneath her, slipping out of her slippers as she leans into him, trying to get him to relax.

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok shrugs. "I told her that wasn't the case and wouldn't be as you're with me, and wouldn't go screwing around. And Scott doesn't run the School just the X-Men. I almost miss being in X-Factor." He says grumbling sitting beside her as he removes his shirt. "Maybe even modify this costume to look like my original one yes?"

:'''{{#var:128|Lorna Dane (128)}} has posed:''' Lorna Dane smiles, brushing a strand of hair out of his eyes. "Heh, you were being diplomatic. If I were there, I swear I would have punched her for taking a pow blow like that." She sighs wistfully and nods in agreement. "Yeaah, I mean, I guess the team broke up or something though, it was nice to do our own thing though.." Shehe grins and nods. "Mm it was pretty sexy.." she starts toying with the collar of his shirt, undoing the first couple of buttons.

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok smiles. "Oh I wasn't diplomatic. I called her loose lips and a loose cannon." He chuckles kissing her and pulling Polaris into his lap

:'''{{#var:210|Havok (210)}} has posed:''' Havok says, "And perhaps we can maybe try and get the team back together or find out if they're still operating"
}}

15975/Log 15975

2024-03-29T21:27:17Z

PoeWolf: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2024/01/16 |Location=Unknown |Synopsis=Summary needed |Cast of Characters=197, 145 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:197|Mystique (197)}} has posed:''' Montauk Point. A cozy stretch of state park nestled on the eastern tip of Long Island, this place is perhaps best known for the lighthouse that has towered over all nine hundred acres of the coastland since it was commissioned by George Washington's Congress. It continues to see its f..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/16
|Location=Unknown
|Synopsis=Summary needed
|Cast of Characters=197, 145
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:197|Mystique (197)}} has posed:''' Montauk Point. A cozy stretch of state park nestled on the eastern tip of Long Island, this place is perhaps best known for the lighthouse that has towered over all nine hundred acres of the coastland since it was commissioned by George Washington's Congress. It continues to see its fair share of traffic to this day thanks to a myriad attractions meant to draw in tourists and New Yorkers alike. One might not expect such a place to be a locale for clandestine conversations. But then, Mystique has a natural gift for making the clandestine seem casual. Winter season always sees a decrease in traffic in these parts; not to say that there's -no one- here, but the coming and going is not nearly what it could be now that snow and frost coat the lush green hills rolling out past the shoreline of Montauk Point Light. It's here she sits, comfortably swaddled in what at least -looks- like a white fur coat, a wide brimmed, eloquent white hat largely covering up a bundled mane of raven-black hair. A pale leg peeks out of the slit of a knee-length black skirt, providing flimsy protection she does not need against the elements. Eyes hidden by sunglasses, she just sits comfortably at a bench next to the towering edifice of the lighthouse, and watches the ocean horizon, quietly humming Dvorak's 'New World Symphony' to herself as she waits. For her casual, clandestine company.

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' Casual, clandestine meetings typically don't call for teleportation circles erupting in broad daylight, so Illyana Rasputin arrives on foot at precisely the appointed hour. A black leather coat with a dark red fur trim and a matching fur hat seem to be her armor against the cold-- at least, until she takes a seat beside Mystique and the heat subtly, constantly radiating from her body is apparent. One leg crosses the other, briefly baring pale flesh bordered by knee-length black boots and a black mini. "Such a cruel winter," she eventually muses after an initial bout of silence, eyes fixed forward and shielded by big, round shades. "Every year, it feels just a bit more like punishment for our collective sins against the world which suffers us."

:'''{{#var:197|Mystique (197)}} has posed:''' Live long enough, and you develop a certain contentment in the sanctity of silence. Raven Darkholme, at least, seems rather unperturbed by the quiet that settles comfortably between herself and Illyana Rasputin when the blonde settles in next to her with perfect punctuality. The only asterisk to that comfortable silence's reign is the bold strains of Dvorak that still thread melodiously from ruby-painted lips as Mystique feels the heat thrum from her new(est) infernal friend. A small smile coaxes the corners of her lips, sly as a fox, when Illyana brings an end to the silence with an observation on cruelty. The humming ends. "Tsk tsk. Such a bleak outlook, dorogaya," Mystique remarks, her voice today rich and sweet as honeysuckle. "That dour disposition of yours is very cute, but I prefer to think of things more positively. Nature doesn't give a single damn about us, and never will. We'll freeze to death and the world will continue to spin on, indifferent." Is that positive? Mystique seems to think so. Maybe she takes some comfort in believing that. Gloved fingers lace together, stretching up over her head in a luxurious motion as she speaks. "That's why you have to rein nature in with a strong hand while you live, because it certainly won't do you any favors. No different from dealing with human nature, really." She lets that thought settle in silence for a few precious seconds, reaching the apex of her stretch before she remarks with a languid, vaporous puff of a sigh, "But you'd know all about that much, wouldn't you? How goes the headhunt?"

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' "Ever the optimist, aren't we?" The Russian answers the shapeshifter's prediction with a wry twist of her lips and voice alike, and lets her speak her mind undisturbed with little more than a sidelong wandering of cold eyes along a luxuriating figure. Inevitably, her gaze lands squarely on Raven's; the question presses those pitch-black lips into a thin line of annoyance. "I've found myself short on suitable candidates, barring the Juggernaut," she flatly answers, shifting her attention towards the water. "The mercenary Deadpool was a thought; I have yet to successfully navigate the labyrinth of his automated phone system, however, though I am given to understand that I'm currently at level 43, and nearing entry to a new contact zone." All of which she then releases with a drawn-out sigh and hidden, lidded eyes. "There was a white-haired woman in Madripoor who seemed promising... and every attempt I've made at divining more about her has met resistance," she then continues. "These things take time, I suppose."

:'''{{#var:197|Mystique (197)}} has posed:''' "Seeing the cloud in every silver lining is the way to a long and luxurious life." But let it not be said Mystique, for all her overflowing optimism, can't see opportunities when they arise. Illyana's annoyance is a subtle thing, but all the more palpable to a mutant whose gift is to know the body intimately down to a genetic level. Behind dark shades, decidedly yellow eyes catch the briefest glimpse of Illyana's cool, meandering gaze before it shifts towards the horizon; the faint pucker of bright red lips in a blown kiss is the Russian's reward, before her initial answer is met with an amused snort. "You'll never find a blunter instrument than Marko, that's for certain," Raven concedes lightly. "A nice get. Good work. The only difficult part will be making sure he stays charging in the right direction... unless you don't mind a little collateral." Her tone suggests that she, at least, doesn't; but she's trying to be -considerate-. How kind, is Mystique! The shapeshifting mutant wraps her arms under her chest, hugging against her ribcage as her stare, too, turns back to the ocean. Her expression briefly sours at the mention of Deadpool. "Congratulations on wasting forty three levels of your life," she remarks, flat voice ruined by the slightest sour aftertaste. "I expect suitable compensation if I'm meant to corral that brain-blendered lunatic." Kind -and- friendly! Her interest piques for a moment, as Illyana mentions a 'white-haired woman'; but instead of offering direct commentary on -that-, she instead decides to say: "Time, and knowing the right circles. Luckily for you, Raven is here to take your hand and show you a whole new world of mutant resistance." A fox's cunning smile touches on her lips. She turns her gaze back on Illyana, past those mutual layers of shaded lenses. "There's plenty of promising prospects who will be and believe whatever you'd like them to, for the right price. I have a couple in mind, in fact... including one who might just help turn our fortunes around. I think you'll like her. Her fashion sense is right up your alley, at least." A second passes. And then: "Don't worry, dorogaya. You're in good hands, now. All you have to do is ease into them."

:'''{{#var:145|Illyana Rasputina (145)}} has posed:''' "There's more humanity beneath the dome than you would think," Illyana says of the Juggernaut. "He wields Cyttorak's blessings far more than the opposite-- or so my impression goes." Thanks to the supernatural delta between Illyana and the winter air, her next breath -- like all the rest -- flows from her lips like the remnants of an indulgent drag and dances outwards. "I promised to broker a deal with his patron for more power in return," she then adds, softly; flatly. It's a distant concern through the thicket of now. "Until then: a little excess destruction is a boon. I want them afraid-- I want them desperate enough to reveal their worst, truest faces to the world before we trample them. By the end, her jaw readily sets in a steel-clad line. Cold fire seethes behind dark lenses while Raven speaks of possibilities-- of turns of fortune and good hands waiting to receive her. "I am open to meeting her," she succinctly answers. "And anyone else-- just as long as they're capable of being ''loyal'', for the right price." Besides the added emphasis, the distinction comes with a pointed cant of her head and gaze towards Raven. "For the right cause," she adds. "As long as they'll follow us into Hell to bathe in the blood of the damned... I'm willing to keep a ''very'' open mind to your friends," the X-Woman promises.
}}

15973/Another dreamer

2024-03-29T21:26:45Z

PoeWolf: Raven came to meet the wizard and tell him about a dream.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/15
|Location=Harry Dresden's Office, Kingston Falls
|Synopsis=Raven came to meet the wizard and tell him about a dream.
|Cast of Characters=174, 141
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' It is quiet in the office this morning. A tall, weary looking man sits behind a desk. When the door is approached certain wards flare, but this is a place of business so they seem to be a passive thing at least for now. The wards are the least of someone worries right now as laying on the floor, looking at the passerbys is a dog. A massive dog. Tibetan mastiff massive dog. For those with mystical sight, the dog is clearly powerful in his own right. In some ways, he is more powerful than most mages and mystics. If someone is really sensitive, they would recognize him as a Fu dog, ancient defender of temples. The man at the desk is working on some sort of file and is mostly quiet aside from being a grumbly non morning person. The office is a little cluttered and there is a hallway that leads to an apartment in the back providing the protection of threshold to the office as well.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' It wouldn't be that strange if an alarm or two was set off by Raven. She was the daughter of an apocalyptic level devil after all, supposedly a harbinger of the endtimes if she willed it...although it seemed that she was quite happy to be the goth-fashioned heroine she was known to be. Today at least, she was dressed down, though simple magics could easily change such things. Wrapped in her hoodie jacket and jeans, the dark-haired young woman's steps drew her closer...only to blink at the dog. She doesn't pet it, instead offering the creature a light nod before she heads towards the office.

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' The dog does turn his attention towards her and gives her a wary look initially. Strange things come and go around here and if he could talk, oh the tales he would tell. He makes a chuffing sound that alerts the man behind the desk. He isn't setting off alarms or anything, it's just early and there is a mystical tipping point between enough coffee to be self aware and not enough to know you are awake. Harry looks up from his desk, considers the woman in the office with him. He doesn't need to open to any power to know this one carries plenty of her own. The main office threshold doesn't dampen her powers much, the door into the living area, that is another story. They are in the office regardless. He stands and is /really/ tall. Somehow, despite him looming over the world, the dog seems far more dangerous. He steps around desk and mutters,"Hello. I'm Harry Dresden. Can I help you?" As work greetings go, it a little lame, but gets to the point.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' If this was the man that Dracula had name-dropped? Well...there had to be more than meets the eye, right? After all, John Constantine had been a little underwhelming to meet at first too. Hell, she'd probably have called him first if he hadn't been hidden from her. Stepping into the space, her arms come out of her pockets, classically allowing her hands to be seen as she lifts them lightly. "I'm Raven...and I've been having bad dreams and vampire problems. I hear you know about the first, and I'm hoping you can help with the second."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' In an instant, he goes from frumpy and a little dazed to a scowl and a sigh. He indicates the chair at his desk across from his. A deep breath and exhale, the tired replaced with grumpy and more haggard,"All right Raven. Have a seat, tell me about your dreams." he indicates and moves to an old, old model perkalator to pour himself more coffee. If she takes time to notice, there is nothing remotely tech in the room. He has candles, no lights. Books, no television or audio equipment. The place is 1920's living at best. "Once we hear about that, tell me about the vampire problems. I think we'll want my girlfriend to have a hand in that one, but tell me about it anyway."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Vampire first," Raven speaks, but she makes her way down to settle into the chair, folding her hands. "When I woke up, -Dracula- was in my room, knew what I'd been dreaming and tried to convince me to come with him. Fortunately, I'm read up on him...as much as most book lovers might be. I didn't invite him in, but he got in." A gesture, she folds her hands in her lap. "I don't feel super confident just stringing garlic through the tower, so I need a ward strong enough to keep him from trying to make me a midnight snack."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Oh, that guy. The scowl on Harry's face is too deep to miss even from the coffee pot. He pours another cup and asks,"You want coffee?" His mood wasn't great before, professional sure. Now his mood is darker as the blackest coffee,"I have been reading on him. My girlfriend has been as well." He shakes his head and takes a drink of the hot liquid. Turning to look at her he says,"You don't want him entering your tower sure. You have a tower?" That is a little surprising,"Garlic alone probably wouldn't help no. Willow knows some spells about removing invitations and we are both able to help you set some wards, admittedly she is better at the warding than me. We can layer some wards and get any permisions removed. That said, you will have to make sure nobody invites him back in. The wards will still protect you, but better if he doesn't have an invitation."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Titan tower," Raven offers, exhaling a sigh. Ordinarily she wouldn't have offered such information freely, but security was worth it, she'd given her name...and truth be told thanks to the gem on her head, she was probably reeking of infernal magics. She was literally wearing part of the prison for Trigon after all. Shifting a little at the thought, she tilts her head. "I don't think anyone invited him specifically, is this a case of saying 'a public lobby' is enough to let them in anywhere?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' A nod and he tells her,"Titan Tower. That will..complicate things a little. It is a public place. You can't really set a threshold, but if you want I could talk to Willow about the two of us layering wards around your room and anyone else's room. Concentrate there instead of the whole public building." He takes a seat at the desk and slips a card towards her,"I could come do my part today and she could weave hers with mine at a later time. Neither of us are a slouch, but together we're decidedly better. As I said, her wards are better. I am more a battering ram and she is the protector. One of us is subtle and it isn't me."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Maybe we need to convince the others to make it...non-public," Rachel muses, but she nods her head as she takes the card, turning it over in her grasp. "Fairly sure they'd listen, to protect us while we sleep. Then we'll get your 'Willow' to remove the permissions, or send me the spell and I'll do it myself." Tucking the card away, she tilts her head to the side. "Now...about the creepy teethy monsters trying to eat me in the woods in my dreams?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "The less public the better." he agrees,"I know that would be tricky. The Titans are well known and curious people can be the worst." He waves his hands over the office,"I get as many asking if I do birthdays as I do asking for a private investigator." He nods and considers for a moment,"I have heard a few people tell me stories about dreams recently. Give me a run down on what you saw and I will recount theirs to you if there is any differences. I have gotten to the point that this is a little more common than seems right. It feels like someone is pulling some really dumb strings."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' The story is shared, simple as it might be, but Rachel was exacting. Was it the same? Was it different? Raven couldn't know without peeking into his mind and she had no desire to. Instead, she moved to rest and speak, watching his face intently for reaction rather than trying to read emotions or thoughts. Finishing up, she exhales lightly. "So...what does it mean?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' He drinks some of his coffee and listens thoughtfully. He nods here and there, but lets her tell her tale,"Pretty much in line with everyone." he tells her. "A few months ago other dreams came through and some of us went to Mexico where we encountered chupacabra and multiple dogmen." he explains,"This creature you are talking about seems to be a creature of legend, Native folklore, the wendigo. Not to be confused with Wendigo. The one you reference is like an immortal, cannibal that is always hungry. The other is like an immortal bigfoot."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "So...the cannibal cryptid is visiting my dreams specifically...or it's just putting out some sort of massive resonating ripple through magic that others are sensing?" Raven questions, exhaling a breath. "Are you saying I'm going to have to go hunting some monsters now?"

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "Your dreams, Willow's dreams, Sabrina's dreams, Faith's dreams, and Cassie's dreams. Satana's dreas. Among others. Those are the high spots." he tells her,"We went on a hunt before, if we go looking for this one as well do you want to be a part of the hunting party? It seems like its inevitable there will be another monster hunt in the immediate future."

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "If it needs to happen, I'll lend my help," Raven offers as he lists the names off of the other dreamers, the heroine frowning. "It's not like I really want such things running around...and I'd prefer better night's sleep."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' "The creature is prevalent to the north. I haven't heard of it having the ability to influence dreams either." he replies,"That said people are dreaming of it, the chupa and dogmen before that." He sighs softly and admits,"I think there is something bigger at work. Something pulling the strings as it were. I don't know for sure, but it seems likely. Any of your other friends say anything about it?"

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Not yet," Raven admits, making to stand from the chair and just sort of...pacing. "Not sure who I'd tell, not sure where to start. Most of them aren't magicians, and this is more my normal wheelhouse." She looks back, glancing at the wizard over her shoulder. "None of them have seen anything, or said anything to me about it yet either."

:'''{{#var:174|Harry Dresden (174)}} has posed:''' Oddly enough, when she stands he does too. Manners. Old school manners from the guy that doesn't have a computer in his office. He takes a drink of his coffee again and listens. A nod and he admits,"Any that have heritage in lore and magic would be my experience. All the ones I mentioned are of such. An Amazon, a half demon, a witch, vampire slayer..." he explains,"...seems to be a pattern anyway." "Keep your ears open. I wouldn't put ideas into anyone's head. The dream state is open to suggestion and could cause issues." From down the hall another tank emerges. Well in a manner of speaking. The cat is massive and might almost pass as a bobcat. It pads past them both and jumps up onto the desc and then the filing cabinet. Harry points at the cat,"Mister..." and he points to the dog,"...Mouse." While the dog looks at him, the cat seems he couldn't care less. Some critters.
}}

15972/The people you see when you are flying along.

2024-03-29T21:26:14Z

PoeWolf: A gathering of younger heroes on the roof of Titan Tower.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/15
|Location=Roof, Titans Tower
|Synopsis=A gathering of younger heroes on the roof of Titan Tower.
|Cast of Characters=1014, 55, 141, 973
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Flying. Sometimes that is the best therapy. Schools are back in session, complete with all their own stresses. Firestar is flying towards the ocean, but happens by Titan Tower. She hmms and swoops closer to see if anyone is up and about that she knows on the roof. Not landing without a familiar face she hovers there a moment to see.

:'''{{#var:55|Kara Danvers (55)}} has posed:''' It's pretty late at night, and a cold night at that. The aurora borealis viewing had occurred a couple of days ago but some weaker light shows can still be seen on a clear night, which is what draws Kara out this night. Earth silver moon always fascinated her as does the sky and star field from this corner of the universe. She sits on a lawn chair, not really bothered by the chilly wind as she is dressed in a simple white tshirt, blue jeans and ares hoodie that is zipped most of the way up. Probably not typical winter wear but the cold doesn't really bother her that much thanks to the red sun. Occasional streaks of light flash through the sky, perhaps remnants of the main show from the other night.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' Late, cold, gloomy...it was probably exactly the sort of weather that Raven might be expected to be out in. The half-demon heroine was currently out and about...but she wasn't flying tonight. She wasn't even in costume at the moment, instead favouring her hoodie and a pair of jeans, the heroine was nursing a mug of tea out on the roof, looking up at the night sky as she made her arrival...only to blink as she realises she wasn't on her own.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' The aura of heat energy around Angelica gives her position away in the sky. She waves to Kara and calls,"Hey stranger. You have a place a gal to settle for a while, catch up on the latest gossip, and otherwise forget about the new NYU class schedule?"

:'''{{#var:55|Kara Danvers (55)}} has posed:''' Kara Danvers is naturally drawn to heat and light as her body tends to absorb and store solar energy, so the arrival of the fiery Angelica is always a welcome sight. "Hey, Angelica, how have you been?" she chuckles and nods, "Of course! Always room for another!" it takes her another moment to register Rachel lounging about and that causes her to chuckle, waving to her as well. "Rachel! When did you get here?"

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Just now," Raven speaks, the steam of her mug attesting to the comment on her arrival before she exhales a breath fogged by the night air's chill. A small sip taken under the moonlight she looked up at the pair flying, taking to a small hover herself without issue, even if she was still mostly on the roof.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Firestar lands on the roof and nods to Kara,"It's good to see you again." she tells her with a smile. Her attention moves to Raven, only noticing her just now too. She offers the other woman a smile and nods to her as well,"Hello. I'm Angelica."

:'''{{#var:55|Kara Danvers (55)}} has posed:''' Kara Danvers chuckles, "Just enjoying another crispy evening flight? It is peaceful tonight, probably because it's so cold and dark." but don't those make the best flight nights? She smiles and nods to Rachel. "Rachel is a member of the Titans, Rachel this is my friend Angelica. She's from Alpha Flight."

:'''{{#var:973|Damian Wayne (973)}} has posed:''' "What is Alpha Flight doing here?" Asks Robin as he emerges from the elevator, the door opening with a slight hiss and the Boy Wonder steps through. His cape flowing behind him, the black and gray suit wit hthe red 'R' on his chest the first thing seen, his gauntlets with the same blade-catchers that mimic Batman's own. Speaking of Batman? Robin has the same serious look on his face. "Ladies." He greets the trio in friendly fashion.

:'''{{#var:141|Rachel Roth (141)}} has posed:''' "Raven," Rachel corrects, not that she was wearing a mask or her costume...she just generally preferred her hero identity after all. Wrapped in her hoodie jacket and sipping from her mug, Raven does at least offer a lift of her hand before she makes to touch her feet down on the rooftop once more, only to look over her shoulder at the sound of the new arrival. "Robin...I guess this is normal hours for the 'Bats' huh?"

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' "Alpha Flight came to NYU to get a degree." she replies to the new arrival,"I am on leave of absence from them for the time being and likely I won't be going back." She looks to Kara and smiles,"Your cousin and Diana, they offered me a probationary membership with the League. Batman didn't object, that one is intense." She looks at Robin and smiles,"A good man, but intense." She looks to Raven and nods,"Raven it is." she agrees,"You can call me Firestar or Angelica in a setting like this."

:'''{{#var:55|Kara Danvers (55)}} has posed:''' Kara Danvers chuckles, "Can't say I've had many interactions with Batman but his antisocial tendencies are rather legendary.." she shrugs. "Oh right, you mentioned the League before, that's cool.." and then Robin, or one of them makes an appearance, which calms her to smile. Seems they have their own version of Batman. "Hey Robin, how goes? Have you met Firestar yet? She's just dropping by from The League." having been away the past few weeks herself, Kara is trying to catch up on recent events around here too.

:'''{{#var:973|Damian Wayne (973)}} has posed:''' "Hm." That's Damian's initial reply to Firestar. He recognizes her, of course. He's met her in his civilian identity of Damian Wayne. She's nice, though hearing she's being offered membership into the Justice League is no surprise. If her civilian identity is so friendly as a legitimate team player, then she'll be perfect for the role. "Congratulations." Robin declares as he approaches the trio a bit more closely, crossing his arms over his chest. He looks at Raven. "Mhm. This is pretty standard hours for you too, though it's surprising to see you not performing an incantation right now." He admits to her, though he turns his eyes to Kara. "Fine." That's how it goes. "Haven't. But speaking of arrivals, welcome back." He tells Kara, his gaze returning to Firestar. "Welcome to the Tower."
}}

15967/So This Is Friday Night

2024-03-29T21:25:45Z

PoeWolf: Jacen and Skye meet.. again.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/13
|Location=Luke's Bar, Central Harlem
|Synopsis=Jacen and Skye meet.. again.
|Cast of Characters=1191, 10414
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1191|Skye Johnson (1191)}} has posed:''' Skye hadn't been out for.. good lord.. over a year. Possibly two. Might be three? Sure she had gone out with Clint. And she had stopped by McAnally's Pub for supper. But for a drink? Specifically for a drink? It had been before she and Clint broke. Frankly? She wasn't a bar girl. Unless there was pool/ Skye was a hustler, plain and simple when a pool table was involved. She used to win money to eat when she was younger. And now that she had vibrational powers, it was to easy to win. 11 O'clock. Friday night. All things considered, it was a quiet night. For which Skye was thankful. Getting a booth before anyone beat her to it, she ordered a draft. She didn't even care what type it was. The mission: To order a drink. Drink the drink with a minimum sips of.. say.. five sips. To wait a minimum of five minutes when she had drunk her drink. And then - and only then - leave. Oh. One more thing: She was not allowed to open up anything that might be able to connect to the internet. The object for this evening was to meet people. Or have the potential of meeting them.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' There is something to be said for a new watering hole. Given that he is still new to the area, they are all new. Still he is looking for a place to frequent and so as he was driving by, he slows at looks at the place. Driving says he can't have a lot, but he's always good for having one. He pulls the truck into a parking area and then comes in a few minutes later. He looks the place over and steps away from the door before starting towards the bar.

:'''{{#var:1191|Skye Johnson (1191)}} has posed:''' Luke's wasn't somewhere Skye was a regular - that would have been Josie's. With the gang all gone, she didn't want to walk in and find Clint with a gril. Not that she begrudged him, just he had gotten so far underneath her shell.. let's just say she wasn't ready to take that big a step moving forward. Little steps. Right? She taken her second (of five!) sips, whether gaze wandered to the door. A low laugh came from her, as she waited for him to notice her.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' Pushing his hat back a litttle, Jacen slips the med pack off his waist and hangs it on his shoulder. He is just ordering a beer with pauses and looks over the bar. Something getting his attention. Eyes scan...scan...oh look. He smirks a little and step away from the bar with a beer and starts her way. A nod to her drink and he asks,"So you have room for one more?"

:'''{{#var:1191|Skye Johnson (1191)}} has posed:''' Skye lifts her drink, as she nods to the other side of the table. As if to say 'come sit'.

:'''{{#var:10414|Jacen (10414)}} has posed:''' Setting the bag on the chair next to where he sits down, Jacen settles and then pushes his hat back a little,"Been a minute. How ya doin'?" he asks. He looks around the room for a moment and then settles his attention back on her again,"Thanks f'r th' welcome."

:'''{{#var:1191|Skye Johnson (1191)}} has posed:''' Skye settles back into her chair. "You do count as a person, right? I mean, I can check you off. If I stay the whole half an hour, I will have completed a trifecta. Not not for a Friday night." She laughs, mostly to herself. "How are you since last time we met?"
}}

16021/Three's More than a Crowd

2024-03-29T21:24:55Z

PoeWolf: The Justice League takes on a prison break where chaos happens.

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/02/03
|Location=Iron Heights, North of Central City.
|Synopsis=The Justice League takes on a prison break where chaos happens.
|Cast of Characters=15, 42, 1014
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' Three miles North of Central City. Those three miles make a world of difference. Yes, the several roads leading into the city are still about, but most of the industrial splendor of the city is gone. People can see the various greens of grass, trees, and more of nature's wonder. Well, they would if it's not for this dreary weather. All the leaves are gone, a gray haze of clouds spread across the sky. It's a depressing sight for some. And another depressing sight begins with simple road that turns off. Taking a right for a good five, to ten minutes cause that depression to grow. Various signs are strung about all saying the same thing, "Prison Area. Do not Pickup Hitchhikers," This is how Iron Heights greets the world long before anyone sees it. Those signs just continue as the large structure comes into view. A concrete structure with several windows strung about. Various fencing with barbed wire, razor wire, electrical wiring and more. There are layers of security. This is just what the world can see. Underground Iron Heights hold high security cells saved for some of the world's more dangerous mutants and metas. Most don't know about it unless they've done some time there. That's where tonight begins. "I don't understand why Iron Heights?" speaks a woman wearing a wig of a raven black pixie cut wig. Doris Zuel's bright red hair is quite an identifying feature. Right now, her and a small handful of others do not want that. They're driving a prison van. Something a little money replicated. Normally, this is a cheap operation, but two occupants caused some necessary upgrades. "As we discussed earlier, our quartet is not enough. We need comrades in arms. Candidates like Doctor Snow and Nicholas Necro, both are in this facility. The guards won't exactly bring us their presence on a loan," speaks the smooth baritone voice of the ring leader. "Do you believe the rumors. About the creature?" speaks a man that has to focus to keep his voice steady. It runs the risk sounding like his words come from an electrolynx. "Typically, I do not believe in such rumors Mister Corben, but high probability stares back at me whenever I look in a mirror. It stares back at me now as I look at everyone in this vehicle. Remember the plan." The Van pushes forward going through each security point like normal. It stops in the appropriate spot. The backdoors open and the raven-haired Doris and a third man get out of the vehicle. Both are dressed in prison uniforms. "Ultrahumanite for transport and relocation," Grey speaks. That's when the "man" with the baritone voice lumbers forward. It's only when he moves forward that the driver gets out, too. The Van groans a little. Everyone presumes the weight shift of the van comes from the lumbering white ape. That's how it all begins. By the time the league gets the call everything is in chaos. "CODE BLACK! CODE BLACK! I REPEAT CODE BLACK!" for those that know Iron Height's prison code that doesn't mean jail break. A jail break means just a few people. Code Black means they've lost control of -everything-. Regular criminals, metas, mutants and everything inbetween begin their revenge, escape or some devious combination. A noble, or scared, few stay put or stay within the prison walls. Something like this -will not- be quiet. In the chaos The Ultrahumanite, Giganta and Metallo make their way toward various points. "You know your tasks," Humanite begins. I have the Doctor. Doris you have the Necromancer. Corben you have the creature. And all of you know my wishlist. We'll meet back at the rendezvous point." "What about Prometheus?" Giganta asks. Humanite chuckles, "He's getting more fire to show the world. He has the list, too." Corben scoffs, "That stupid helmet." The cause of the chaos are deep within the prison. Every entrance point is littered with various prisoners.

:'''{{#var:42|Diana Prince (42)}} has posed:''' Diana Prince was about to enter a meeting at the UN building when her League communicator. Pausing to consider the message and its implications for only a moment, she continued into the meeting room. Holding her hand up, she offered an apologetic smile. "My fellow ambassadors, I must excuse myself to assist with a League emergency." The statement drew a number of raised eyebrows and a hushed murmur in the room. What did that mean? Whose country was in danger? Or how many? League business was really the only thing that Diana would use as a reason to miss a meeting. Continuing briefly she turned to her staff, "My staff, Ms. Castenza, Mrs. Ellison and Mr. Long share a full understanding of Themyescira's position and have my blessing to represent me in all matters up other than casting votes. If you'll please excuse me, it is rather urgent." Without pausing, the tall Amazon turns and is suddennly gone. No flash, just a swirl of moving air as she sped out of the building. Outsideas she rose into the sky, Diana crossed her bracers. With a flash of brilliant white light her meeting attire was replaced by her iconic armor as she turned toward Central City. Not long after, Wonder Woman arrives at the outskirts of the city near the perimeter of the prison. Coming to a hover, she spoke into her communicator, "This is Diana. I am on site to the north-east of the prison."

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' While usually careful about changing costumes on the fly, Angelica is walking on the campus of NYU heading for home from a day of classes. Fortunately she doesn't need bring home books since she has a clear weekend. When the call comes in, she turns down a nearby alley and runs to the middle. Once out of sight from the general public she shoots straight into the air to land on a building roof. She finds an exhaust port for a heating system and she presses her bag up and inside, but not far enough back it can fall down into the duct work. A moment later there is a flash of light and her clothes burn away, the bright yellow, orange, and red of the Firestar costume is revealed. Mask in place, she rises into the sky and turns towards Iron Heights. She does fly as fast as the Kryptonians, but once she is at the edge of the city she flies closer to the ground and turns up the speed to nearly 100mph to make it to the jail faster. A young couple sitting on the trunk of their car parked where they shouldn't be get the surprise of a lifetime as the streak of yellow blows past them. As the perimeter of the prison comes into view, Angelica slows and then noting Wonder Woman's presence she flies to her side for the moment, still floating in the air,"Diana." she offers as a greeting and looks over the surroundings. Her face is a little uneasy, but a prison break will do that to a person.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' Superman does get the call and he'll fly between the two. Looking over the prison, the x-ray vision does wonders. "Chaos is an understatement. You two go inside, Wonder Woman take lead. Firestar listen to her. Everyone's free," he says knowing this is going to take every member of the League to assist on this one. Inside Chaos is what waits. Right out the gate there's a group of prisoners leading guards to the cells, locking them inside. Members of the Serpent Society are working together to move toward the weapons room. Loud screams echo in the distance. Something utterly inhuman. Further inside the prison Giganta speaks to someone wearing dark hair. He's wearing a simple prison jumper. They have dark eyes and explain, "Why should I work with you?" he asks. Giganta smirks, "why should they have a team and we don't?" she asks. "Fair," and then man focuses. "htap a raelc!" he chants and a rush of kinetic energy pushes forward and blows open a wall. This around the time the trio outside gather. They see a chunk of wall just shoot out like it got hit by a sledgehammer. Iron Heights has the man floor, an upper floor, four common areas and just as many cell hallways. And that's only what they readily told them. Up to the heroes where to go.

:'''{{#var:42|Diana Prince (42)}} has posed:''' Diana turns to Superman as he arrives. She nods, "Alright." Glancing to Firestar she nods, "Be ready. We do not know who we will encounter." She has a particular hunch but time will tell to that regard. Lasso in hand, Diana leads the way down toward that freshly opened wall, her expression grime. This was not the sort of situation three of them were enough to handle - but emergencies do not wait for when it is most convenient. Reaching the hole, Diana comes to a hover a few feet above the ground and looks through the fracture to view within.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Firestar looks up to Superman as he arrives. She nods to him and then to Diana,"I have you six." she replies in a firmer tone than the red head usually speaks with. She flies after Diana and keeps her head on the proverbial swivel as the move to the opening. Since things have flown out of the wall making the hole, one palm is facing the hole, aimed above and to the right of Diana's shoulder,"If more building material comes at us, I will melt down what I can, just dont rise up and right if you can avoid it." The two women float there for a moment, Angelica trying to watch the hole and their surroundings. She clucks her tongue softly three time, maybe a nervous habit or maybe just an indication she is thinking about something.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' Inside the hole there are several famiiar faces including Giganta and her new associate. The pair trying to slip deeper inside and rushing toward Wonder Woman. It'sa mixture of various metas and mutants. One managers to shoot electiricty toward her. Another looks to be maybe one of the Tarantulas, a few people have that moniker, so it's hard to tell which without a costume. Once Firestar shows up that's when everything gets interesting. "I've got eyes on the Fire threat." She looks toward the one deemed "Necromancer." "We need our friends. They went to see Snow," Nick heard rumors about her and nods. "readel the dna tsorF relliK gnirb," he chants and a portal opens up stepping out Killer Frost and the Ultrahumanite. The baritone voice rumbles in an amused chuckle, "Delegate," he addresses Diana by reputation. "The days ahead will be interesting," Ultra humanite nods and Killer Frost stands there. A contrast to all of Firstar's fiery colors, Killer Frost has snow white skin and icy blue hair. Her hands build with frozen energy that only an icemancer can bring. Bears oif cold lance toward Firestar. Have the X-Men ever pushes her like this. Diana may be the one that needs to get Firestar's six.

:'''{{#var:42|Diana Prince (42)}} has posed:''' Diana Prince regards the gathering group within the prison carefully. Seeing Ultrahumanite, it is clear there was a plan for the League's heavy hitters. If not Superman, the others of the Superclan would be affected. Then Killer Frost. It doesn't take more than a fraction of a second to realize they're trying to counter any opposition. Moving on instinct, she flies in front of Firestar. Crossing her bracers together, she forms a mystical barrier, a large disc like shape large enough to protect herself and deflect the icy attack from directly reaching her ally.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' When fire and radiation are your existence, you notice the cold faster than anyone else. Mindful of Diana's proximity she starts to raise the temperature around her quickly, drawing heat and radiation to make a flame shield to turn up the heat. Dr. Doom. Dr. Octopus. Emma Frost. Magneto. A legendary cursed Native American cannibalistic monster. The legendary Count Dracula. Firestar has seen her fair share of bad things. When the Amazon crosses before her, she drops the building shield to not harm her ally and rises enough to instead light the area with a pair of maser beams that flash and sear anything foolish enough to get touched by it.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' A mixture between the shield the bracers bring and the heat Firestorm generates doesn't quite cause the the ice to disappate. However, it's enough to effectively dampen it and consider it neutralized. The ice lances out and when it connects with the braces forms a cross shape. The ice hitting a bit of wall and flooring. Enough to make those pieces slick for a good while, but nothing dangerous. Humanite smiles at the sight, "Foolish, but impressive, Delegate," Humanite smiles and he looks at the gentleman in the prison getup, "Nicholas. Take us to the creature," and Nick doesn't need to be told twice. "suraX ot su denS," the wizard speaks and the group vanish that's to a portal that opens beneath them. They blink out of existence for the moment. The heroes are alone, metaphorically speaking. On Firestar and Diana's right are those members of the seperent and the Wrecking crew gather. On the left a speedster rushes by.Near them a man that caushes eletriciticty to speak out of their hands. Someone iwth wings. It's a wave of people. Some are hard to pick out because they lack costumes or weapons. Others it's a bit easier the second they flash their powers. It's a seemingly endless sea of them. But maybe that's what Humanite wanted. Chaos.

:'''{{#var:42|Diana Prince (42)}} has posed:''' Diana Prince moves away as the ice blast is deflected, giving Firestar a clear shot to her beams. As the instigators disappear, she frowns. "Superman, they have a sorcerer with them. And Ultra Humanite." He needs to know. As the other prisoners begin to emerge, she turns. They're the current threat. And there are many of them. It was time to even the numbers out. With an expert throw, her lasso flies toward the prisoner trying to unleash electricity and cinches his arms to his sides. Then she begins to swing him on the end, pulling him around toward his peers, intent on bowling them over and eliminating the number prepared to attack she or Firestar.

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' The vanishing act makes her scowl and Firestar rises enough to not get hit by slinging baddies or those that get hit. She aims the maser beams, thin and intensly hot lances of energy to lash at the members of the serpent crew. After a second or two, she aims her palms at the Wrecking Crew. They are strong and tough so they can take it. Her hands blast a beam from each and she uses them to sear the upper legs of all of the Wrecking Crew that doesn't get out of the way. Perifpherally she minds the winged prisoner and she tries to keep an eye on Diana's blind side, flying near as she dares to cover her. There is a lot of people and only so much someone can do at a time. Unfortunately for her she isn't Amazon or Kryptonian, but somebody has trained her.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' Everyone bowls over as Diana flings the electrokinetic over to them. People bowl over like pins as they fall over. All of them crying out in pain. A bunch of them are subdued for the moment. People groan and try to pick themselves up, but Diana can subdue them with a smidge more effort, if they're willing to try round two. Screams come from the Serpent Crew. Those beams ring true. They cry out in pain. Yes, they can take it, but still hurts. And the upper legs cause pain to go through them. Diana's blind side does fill, but it's nothing Firestar can't handle. Another focus blast or something would cause pain or them to run off. Firestar isn't alien, or amazonian, but she can hold her own. right now she can say the wrecking crew went down due to her amongst other criminals. The pair are busy for a bit. Eventually, the duo along with Superman outside, do bring the prison up to a working order. It takes a lot of elbow grease. It's like the superhero equivilant to crowd, and riot, control. The work is hard, sweaty and a little grueling.

:'''{{#var:42|Diana Prince (42)}} has posed:''' The fighting goes on for longer than she likes. All the while Diana is trying to think about where the group earlier went. She certainly wished that Zatanna was here. It would have helped. Immensely. As the break out becomes more contained so that the security teams can regain control, Diana looks to Firestar and Superman to make sure they're okay. "We need to find those responsible. They teleported somewhere. Deeper into the prison, I think."

:'''{{#var:1014|Firestar (1014)}} has posed:''' Firestar practices restraint, even against the dangerous ones. When the winged one passes closer to Diana than she likes, he gets a needle sized hole through one wing. Lift changed. Crash and burn. Physics. She's a little too good at such things. Once she sees things are taken care of, she lowers to the floor next to Diana,"I have been wondering about them too. I know among the three of us I am least useful as scout, but we do need to look deeper. We have multiple exits and any could be secured." Someone trained her.

:'''{{#var:15|Clark Kent (15)}} has posed:''' It takes some time, but the League do get most of it under control. The only thing that's out of place is a few missing names that will stand out, but for now will be swept under the rug. There is enoughf or the League to parce over once they get some time to reflect.
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