12921/Chasing Pavements 2.0

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Chasing Pavements 2.0
Date of Scene: 30 March 2021
Location: Frontyard - Xavier's School
Synopsis: Gray gets welcomed to the school as a guest. He's terrified. Probably for good reason.
Cast of Characters: SpyderByte, Prismatic, Phoenix, Rogue, Ted Gammage, Gray, Nightcrawler, Psylocke




SpyderByte has posed:
Having received the call from Gray earlier on a payphone line, Jeremy let Jean and Alexis know that the vanishing kid is going to show up. He assured Gray on the phone that there will be cookies and no stealing of kidneys. As he sits on the steps in the front, he is waiting patiently next to a plate of warm cookies that Shannon made, dressed in his gothic apparel. He is spinning his phone about in his hands slowly as he waits. He sent an Uber to pick him up, that way he doesn't have to worry about transportation.

Prismatic has posed:
    Cookies, no stealing kidneys.

    Alexis Carr, as 'supervising adult' from earlier thought it would be appropriate to be available for any information-giving. She had switched from her investigation clothes to her nice, profiessional clothes, hair up in a bun, ears set with silver studs, the platinum set with sparkling stones on her left ring finger as she made her way down stairs.

    "How far out is Mr. Gray, Jeremy?" she inquires in a friendly fashion, fixing her cuffs as she looks over the cookies and refreshments.

Phoenix has posed:
Jean had been given a quick rundown by Alexis and the New Mutants as to their upcoming visitor. As expected, there was no hesitation on her part. She's dressed as one would expect a professional, in a deep navy set of pants and a blazer with a school-gold shirt underneath. The tiny X on the lapel and the color scheme is a clear callout to those who know. A spiritual reflection. As almost always, her wavy fiery hair is left down.

"Hey." She says quietly as she joins the others. "Thanks for looking out for him, Jeremy. I'm glad you were all able to track him down."

Then it's to her administrative counterpart that she looks. "So Alexis, given that you have more of an understanding of Gray's situation than I can have, I'd like you to take point. I'll be here, of course, but he may be more comfortable speaking to you. Arguably, you'll know how to talk to him /better/ than I will. Empathy is no substitute for experience." There no judgement in her tone, just a calm understanding that she's not the field expert here.

Rogue has posed:
Cookies are most definitely preferred over stealing kidneys. Though Rogue is really only here to be a random participant, leaning on one of the colomns sort of in the background, she's at least willing to watch things go down. Her 'professional attire' is anything long sleeved, pants, and gloves. Also she has no real idea of what's going on except they're all waiting for someone to show up - and while she wonders if several's a crowd - she's learned that often times it's better to show a person that they have plenty of support rather than just saying such but then proving otherwise. Quiet, for the moment, not that such should really surprise anyone.

SpyderByte has posed:
<< I am tracking his Uber ride. They are enroute. Should not be too long. >>

Jeremy picks at a cookie in his hands as he stares at the long driveway, tilting his head to one side as he searches with his powers. He pops a piece of cookie into his mouth, chewing thoughtfully as he glances over to the pair of X-Men, and Alexis. He probably could have dressed up a bit as well, instead of his gothic clothing, but he does not have much in the way of his closet these days.

<< He will be skittish and untrusting. Maybe overwhelmed when he sees the size of this place. >>

Ted Gammage has posed:
A gathered group, looking official, so Ted gets curious and wanders over. He was working on his beat up car, so is pretty much wearing rough, stained clothes, t-shirt, battered jeans, heavy work boots. He at least covered the t-shirt with a thin hoodie so he doesn't look completely trashy. He pauses a few steps away and waves, "Hey y'all, what's up?" He pauses a moment as he hears Jer talk over the phones and makes an 'oh' and he nods, "Should ah go? Don't wan' spook no one."

Gray has posed:
Gray isn't very far out, at all, though he insisted on being dropped off at the gate and walking the rest of the way to the mansion. Veiled until he can see exactly what he's walking into, the homeless teen is more than a little jittery after the drive from the big city. That was not a fun trip at all... And that poor Uber driver is probably going to want to disinfect his car after having him curled up in the backseat for so long. The soft sound of sneakered feet come up the driveway, stopping a respectable distance from the crowd gathered to greet him. Oh, that's an intimidating number of people! The footsteps shuffle for a moment, as though the invisible teen is considering making a break for it, but, finally, he does drop the veil. It looks like he's had rather a rough time of it, since Alexis and Jeremy last saw him. He's got a black eye, a split lip, and, by the way he's standing favoring his left side, likely a number of other injuries hidden under his dirty clothing. If one were to guess, he probably didn't manage to get away from a group of gangbangers... His every worldly posession is packed into the backpack on his back.

Nightcrawler has posed:
In a spot that's shadowed near to the front door is where Kurt BAMF's into standing. There's a flicker of blue-ish purple smoke, and the scent of burning brimstone. Telltale signs that he's present. Yet he's easily able to be overlooked on account of his ability to blend into the shadow. Perhaps it is an intentional choice, or perhaps not. His tail lightly swishes behind him as he leans a little bit against the wall, watching for the moment. He wears a pair of blue jeans, and a long-sleeved grey shirt. His glowing yellow gaze flicks from one to another of the others loosely assembled here. And then his gaze turns towards the one who walks towards the mansion.

Prismatic has posed:
    Alexis gives a pleasant smile to Jean. A quick rundown consisting of approximate age and education level and suspect behaviors, likely traumas from the street. She had given a smile and a nod to Rogue in passing.

    "Good afternoon Mr. Gammage; we're waiting on a prospective student -- no, no, you may stay if you so wish. Might be a bot bothersome, all these adults hanging around." she offers as a light joke, and purses her lips. "... I should go grab some of the other --" she pauses, turning as Gray drops his veil and steps forward.

    Her smile faulters a moment, and the well-dressed woman with the matte heels and smart skirt suite doesn't bare much resemblence to the dirty clothes she'd been wearing when they had met.

    "Good lord -- Gray, you poor lad, what *happened*?" she asks, sounding aghast. "Come in, come in--" Alexis immediately goes into mother hen mode.

    "If you'd like we can get you to medical while you're resting, you poor thing."

Psylocke has posed:
Betsy comes to the door, having received notification that someone would be arriving and that staff was encouraged to attend. She paused just outside the front doors, dressed casually in jeans and an ecru colored sweater. Her nose wrinkled as she caught that scent. She didn't see Kurt though until she looked around her and let out a little psychic ping. There he was, less than ten feet from her. She gave him a smile and a nod then looked back to the goings-on as the new student arrived.

Phoenix has posed:
There's quicker, easier grins passes to the arrivals as each comes through in turn. Jean's core attentions, however, are on the upcoming visitor. She's turning to look towards the gates moments before the car arrives to let off the young man, and even as he comes up the drive she's tracking the presence in the yard that doesn't match anyone she knows.

"He's here." Is all she says, and he's visible not long after and Alexis is charging in to the field.

Meanwhile, so as not to crowd Gray, she's stepping back towards where the other staff - and student - are. To them she says in a low murmur so as not to carry, "He's a young man, homeless, found by Jeremy. He's been invited to come join us. To our understanding, he has no family. Apparently he's pretty shy, so let's not crowd him."

Rogue has posed:
Rogue ruffles her nose a bit as that telling scent of brimstone finds her, and while she gives a cursory look around, she doesn't immediately spot her brother from another mother, and just shrugs. Her attention is taken by the kid who's suddenly visible walking up the drive and she gives a gentle tilt of her head as Alexis moves forward to greet the visitor. When Jean steps back and explains a few filling points, she nods her head. "I think not swarmin' hims a good idea. Probably should leave this to them who know the kid so he don't feel too overwhelmed." She's never gotten that Mississippi drawl out of her speech, and she likely never will. Her words are followed by a concerned smile as she shifts her stance just a bit.

Nightcrawler has posed:
There's a smile that hints at the corners of his lips, not that it's seen very well in the shadows where he stands, and Kurt gives a small nod in turn to Betsy. His gaze slips over the others, but he doesn't move to step out of the shadows. One of his ears perks in Jean's direction, listening to her words, and his gaze lowers as he considers what's been said. "Ja, shy people tend to get overwhelmed fairly easily sometimes. It's a new place, a lot of new faces," Kurt says softly.

SpyderByte has posed:
At the sight of Gray looking injured, Jermey straightens up and gives him a concerned stare. He squints his eyes and starts to calculate the time they left him to roughly when the Uber ride was summoned. He may be searching the cameras later to see what happened.

<< We can get you fixed up and into some new clothes, and a shower. >>

He looks over to Alexis and Jean as they appear to be taking point now, picking up the plate of cookies and offering it to him to nibble on.

Ted Gammage has posed:
"Oh well, awlright," Ted replies to Alexis before Gray suddenly is there. He starts to put on a big grin, but sees he's been put through the wringer. "Aw man, yeah, what Jer says," He drawls out. He gives Jer a brief look, figuring he'll probably know what happened, and to ask later. He then realizes his stature might not be helping with the whole 'not intimidating' factor so, he just crouches and then plonks himself down on the ground nearby. "Don't worry for now, though, man. Yer safe here."

Gray has posed:
"I've... had worse." Gray sounds even more cautious than the last time any of the others saw him, taking a step back from the mother henning, "Just couldn't get away from some jerks that thought they needed my stuff more than me." From his tone, he obviously doesn't trust the attempted mothering and is trying to figure out what Alexis expects to get out of it. As hard as it is being on his own out on the streets, at least it's a familiar environment. This? All of the people gathered to gawk at the skittish homeless kid? Yeah... This is a completely different animal and has him so on edge that he's practically vibrating with nerves. The fact that everyone else seems to be keeping their distance is welcome. It gives him space to breathe. He eyes the plate of cookies with a blend of suspicion and longing, finally stepping close enough to Jeremy that he can take one, breaking off a piece and sticking it in the right hand pocket on his jacket before nibbling on the larger portion. He murmers something too quiet to hear at the suggestion that he can take a shower, the tiniest bit of tension easing out of his shoulders. Apparently, a shower would be welcome.

Psylocke has posed:
Betsy remains near the doors, opting not to join the people on the lawn. She even turns her body so it looks like she might be in conversation with Kurt. She does say to him, "Probably better if he doesn't think we're all here watching if he's skittish. Even if we are here wanting to welcome him, it might not feel that way for him." Tone low so it is just those on the porch hearing, unless someone has enhanced hearing abilities.

Prismatic has posed:
    Alexis is close, but doesn't touch him. She appears to be taking stock of his injuries in concern, and though her eyes narrow she does not make him head straight away to the infirmary, but she gives a nod.

    "... right then. WelL! Let's get you introduced, and then we'll set you up with a dorm." she states, "I can bring by a tablet with any paperwork later."

    She turns to the others, and gives a smile. She tries to talk at a decent enough volume that everyone can hear her.

    "First, Miss Jean Grey. She is my superior in administrative in the school. If you cannot find me, you may go to her if you need any help. Mr. Kurt Wagner is among the staff of the school -- you will be hard pressed to find someone quite as witty and genuine as he. Lady Braddock is one of the physical education instructors, if physical education means martial arts." she goes down the line. "Mr. Gammage, Ted, is another student -- he happened across the set up of cookies and tea inside the foyer and made an inquiry to the event, and towards the back there is Miss Rogue, who steps in whenever she is needed." she smiles. "And you have met me, but may I introduce myself again, Alexis Carr. Music instruction and Junior Deputy Headmistress, and I will say that it is a pleasure to see that you have taken us up on a try.

    She motions "Please, we have more refreshments inside."

Phoenix has posed:
As she hears her name being said, Jean turns to look over her shoulder prior to turning around all the way. There's a dip of her head to Gray as she says, "Thank you for coming by, Gray. I'm glad to finally get the chance to meet you. I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have, my door is always open. For now, I don't want you to worry about making any decisions or planning out a school day. Considering this your home for as long as you need it. Get cleaned up, relax, rest. If you choose to stay with us, then we'll worry about school then."

She turns a quick glance towards Alexis, passing to her telepathically, << And if the dorms are a bit too intimidating, let me know and I'm happy to set him up in one of the cabins. At least they'll be quiet and give him some space, and he'll certainly be safe out there. >>

Anything dangerous knows better than to tread in those woods.

Rogue has posed:
Rogue blinks as her name gets called and she does a two-finger salute before shifting a bit more. "You'll find nothin' but helpful folks here, with the patience of saints. Anyone tries to bring chaos to your calm, you come get one of us and we'll sort it out." Cause that's what a Rogue does, right? "Pleasure to meet you, too." She ends with that and then sort of makes to turn and walk away from the front door a bit, cause she's still of the mind to give the kid some breathing room - which means letting Gray, Alexis and the others go in first while she maybe takes up the rear. Or torments Kurt. Whichever works.

Nightcrawler has posed:
Lifting his glowing gaze to Betsy, Kurt gives a smile and a nod. "That's true, that would likely be better for him. A welcome of too great of a size can be a lot to take in," he says softly, a thoughtful note to his words. "I hope he'll settle in well," he adds, glancing briefly towards the youth. One of his eyebrows quirks up and his gaze turns towards Alexis and Gray, and he bows slightly, in case he can be seen there in the shadows. "It's good to meet you," he says in a soft tone.

Psylocke has posed:
"The pleasure is mine," Betsy says, posh British accent despite the Japanese appearance. She gives a smile to Gray. "Let us know if you need anything." And she left it at that, again not wanting to add too much to the already overwhelming scene. The kid had been through a lot. He needed a safe place. It reminded her of some of the others they had and her glance flicks unconsciously to Jeremy.

SpyderByte has posed:
Giving a nod of his head, Jermey makes his way away from Gray to give him space, sliding up next to Betsy as he shoves his hands into his pockets. He rocks on his feet some, looking to be waiting for Gray to make the next move.

<< You can crash at my place if you want, use my shower. It's built for two people. I don't care. >>

He's trying to be welcoming at least.

<< My room is really hot though because I run dual high velocity computer servers but I can open a window. >>

Ted Gammage has posed:
"Jer, y'd have to knock out ah wall t'make it cool enough t'stay in," Ted notes with a half smile, trying to ease the mood a little. He draws a knee up, letting one leg stretch out a bit, staying seated on the ground.

He peers over a moment, then wonders, "What'd make y'feel more comfortable?" to the new guy. "Its ah bit of a challenge t'remember everyone's names, ah know, but we're glad yer givin' us a chance. S'safe space here."

Rogue has posed:
Rogue seems to think a moment. "I'm going to head off, let you all handle this." She smiles, cause she's not trying to be rude...she just needs to step off. Mostly because groups kinda make her a bit skittish as well - and she's been around for a bit. So she exits, to the side, and takes off into the skies to likely fly to the back of the grounds.

Gray has posed:
"I-" Gray's eyes widen and his steps back again, suddenly breathing just a little too fast, "I ain't stayin'. I'm just checkin' the place out. This ain't me saying yes, or nothin'." The beginnings of a panic attack bring out the Texan in his accent, "Ain't no need for any paperwork." He's a guest, not taking up residence! He looks at everyone as they're introduced, giving each a nod of acknowledgement. He nods at Jeremy's offer, though he looks a little wary at the mention of a two person shower, "I, um... I don't mind the heat." He shivers a little, "It's cold I don't like." He shakes his head at Ted, lowering his chin a little, "Ain't nowhere safe..." It's said a little louder than he intended, but still quiet.

Prismatic has posed:
    <<I'm not sure if that's a good idea; it may be quiet and give him space, but it may be difficult to monitor some... more difficult issues.>> Alexis looks back to Jean, and she takes a deep breath.

    "That's a good idea, Jeremy; at least for tonight. If you decide to stay, Gray, we can discuss details at a later date." she gives a gentle smile to Gray, and gives a motion upwards. "Meanwhile, we have laundry facilities and plenty of hot water for a hot shower. And -- should you want -- we can stop by the infirmary and at least get you patched up a little. I don't like the look of that black eye."

Phoenix has posed:
<< Understood. Make use of whatever facilities and supplies that you need. >> Jean replies back to Alexis with the blanket permission to go hog wild and then backs out of the woman's head so she can speak with Gray.

"I'll go ahead and leave you in the capable hands of Ms. Carr." She says to Gray with a gentle look that seems to carry all of the warmth of a mother's smile. It's a subtle pull on her empathic powers to make herself seem more trustworthy with an air of comfort.

"And like I said, for now you are our visitor and guest. If there's anything you need, we'll be happy to help, just let us know what'll make your visit comfortable. If you wish to leave, we'll make sure that you get safely to wherever you wish to go. We can talk more later when you're ready."

SpyderByte has posed:
<< I do not like the cold either. It makes me feel terrible. >>

Jeremy says to Gray as he rubs the back of his neck.

<< But you are welcome to use my room. My room, that can fit two people, not my shower. >>

He can see the moment of wary and had to recall what he said earlier. He corrects himself, much like how a machine would.

<< All the dorms are built for two residents, but as a Senior I got assigned my own. The extra bed is not used. You can have it. >>

Ted Gammage has posed:
After a few moments more, Ted hefts himself up, and dusts off his pretty grimey jeans, "Ah well, then," he tells Gray, "Enjoy checkin' it out. Some o'the others are real good cooks too, so at least getcha some food b'fore you make a decision." He gives a wave, "Ah'll give y'more space." He grins at Jer's re-calculation, "See y'later Jer." He heads off toward the garages again.

Gray has posed:
The faint empathic push has a little more of the tension leaking out of Gray, along with a little bit of wareriness gathering in his eyes, and he nods, seemingly unable to speak. He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, hunching his shoulders like gathering a shield around himself, as he shifts his focus to the ground somewhere between himself and the others. There's a loud sniffle and when he does speak, his voice is thick and cracks slightly with emotion, "Thanks." Maybe this place isn't going to be so bad?

SpyderByte has posed:
<< You're welcome. >>

Jeremy gives a motion of his hand as he turns and starts up the steps for the doors of the large, incredibly huge mansion. It's like Disney Land for mutants, but bigger and no creepy costumed mice. Just big blue furry Beasts and pirate loving elf's.

<< Follow me. I'll get some clothes for you also. >>