Session Start: Fri Mar 08 12:04:09 2002

* Mondo_Gecko skitters up the wall

* Mondo_Gecko licks his eye

* HappyLittleMoron comes down the stairs, toating Brenna on her hip, then looks up at Mondo and blinks...

* Mondo_Gecko falls off the wall and blinks, waking up

<Mondo_Gecko> ...

<Mondo_Gecko> Geeze....ever have one of those weird dreams where your primal?

* HappyLittleMoron nods* Yah..

* FWL_MeRc walks out of his room, his fur wet with sweat his eyes groggie

<Mondo_Gecko> ..what the hell happend to you?

<FWL_MeRc> ... bad dreams

* HappyLittleMoron looks ove and arches a brow at Merc1 You ok?

<HappyLittleMoron> Ahh

<FWL_MeRc> ...

<Mondo_Gecko> ...bout what?

<FWL_MeRc> ... stuff

<HappyLittleMoron> Hn...okie...*shrugs a little and goes to settle onto the couch*

<FWL_MeRc> ugh... i really shouldn't pull those all nighters

<HappyLittleMoron> You still searchin' fer whatever beat Diana up?

<FWL_MeRc> ... yea

<HappyLittleMoron> Give it a rest...if it'll be caught, it'll be caught...betcha don't even know where ta look

<FWL_MeRc> ... find that woman... she should knnow

<HappyLittleMoron> No she wouldn't

<FWL_MeRc> ...

<FWL_MeRc> ¬.¬

<HappyLittleMoron> She can't remember anything of the fights...

<FWL_MeRc> damnit

<Mondo_Gecko> ...

<Mondo_Gecko> what??

<Mondo_Gecko> ...Diana was beat up??

* HappyLittleMoron blinks...

<HappyLittleMoron> Uhm...

<HappyLittleMoron> Mondo...? I think you were there...

<Mondo_Gecko> oh...

<Mondo_Gecko> that.

<HappyLittleMoron> Yeah

<Mondo_Gecko> sorry, I thought you ment appart from that

<HappyLittleMoron> Oohh...nah...she's up in her room recovering still...

<FWL_MeRc> ....

<FWL_MeRc> I want to find that thing...

<HappyLittleMoron> Yes, Merc...we know

<Mondo_Gecko> thing is..are we any closer

<HappyLittleMoron> Nope...don't think so...

<HappyLittleMoron> There haven't been any attacks...and last I saw Angy, her energy patterns were normal...

* FWL_MeRc sighs "maybe"

* from outside, somewhere down the street, a dull thud can be heard, a sort of splintery crumply thud... about half a dozen car alarms at once go off, and the lights flicker, then steady once more*

<Mondo_Gecko> I talked to her..

* Mondo_Gecko blinks, tail starting to lash!

<Mondo_Gecko> whoa!

* FWL_MeRc eyes widen and dashes into his room grabbing his weapon "ok... bad sign"

* HappyLittleMoron blinks* .....waht the?? *stands, cradling Brenna close*

<FWL_MeRc> ... I'm going to check that out... you two wait here... *cocks his weapon walking to the front door*

* HappyLittleMoron grumbles a little, but sits back down

* nothing new happens - just the sound of far-off car alarms*

* Mondo_Gecko sits down by HLM, sitting close protectively incase anything else happens

* FWL_MeRc opens the door slowly stepping out, his FN-P90 in his arms as he slowly walks toward the alarms

* you don't really have to walk much of anywhere - you can easily see down to the next intersection, where it looks like a garbage truck has plowed right through traffic - sideswiping a mini and taking a hatchback and a lightpole with it - and buried its nose into a corner bakery*

* a worker can be heard, screaming feintly* MY PIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

* yes, yes he can*

* FWL_MeRc raises his brow putting his gun over his back walking over "well"

* New York being New York, people have already started crowding around - with even more people walking away quickly and not looking either left or right... as Merc approaches, though, they start scattering, some panicked screams and muffled obscenities filling the air.

* FWL_MeRc looks around seeing what was responible for this incident

* Two employees are helping a third crawl past the garbage truck, getting out of the choking dust and glass that fills the store. There doesn't seem to be any movement from within the truck itself.

* Nothing in particular jumps out to meet the eye. You don't see any skidmarks - not from the truck, anyway, there are PLENTY around the intersection.

* FWL_MeRc sniffs " seems... unusal" * sniffs not smelling fresh tire burn*

* Overheard from one employee, animatedly to the other... "-bleeping rammed the store, dude, just came down the hill and BAM!"

<Employee> "Right through the bleeping light, man!"

<FWL_MeRc> ... .oO (feh its nothing... I'm off home...) *turns around beginning to walk away*

* Traffic patterns are reconfiguring themselves around the scene, detouring around the half-bent lamppole and the garbage truck extending itself halfway through the intersection. Any would-be gawkers have been rather effectively deterred, both by Merc and by the distant sound of sirens.

* FWL_MeRc raises a brow... then makes his way to the alley way not in the mood for a fire fight

<``Mitch> For some strange, inexplicable reason, no one seems to want to stop the blue musclebound hedgehog toting a machinegun.

* FWL_MeRc sighs and climbs up the fire escape so he can watch the scenes from above

* The sirens draw closer, struggling through the early afternoon traffic. If ya care to look back, the passenger-side garbageman is hauling himself out of the window, his left side splattered with blood, looking dazed and green and ready to vomit - though judging by the FRONT side of his clothes, it'd be a repeat performance.

<FWL_MeRc> ... looks like he had a rough time... and the pigs are gonna be doing the usual

* And the prophet Merc turns out to be correct, as police arrive on the scene and start getting a handle on the situation; they're receiving a few more crazed reports of strange and disturbing elements than usual, but hell, it's New York. An ambulance is working its way down, but seems to be stuck in traffic a few blocks up ahead.

* FWL_MeRc looks down the street at the ambulance "good oul new york"

* The passenger is eventually escorted to the ambulance instead of the other way around. No one seems overly eager to approach the driver's side, even given that it's half-buried in cake; every once in a while a cop looks in and just shakes his head. They're directing traffic now - it looks like this is going to play out to be a fairly normal accident scene.

* FWL_MeRc sighs being stuck there until things clear up " feh... I'm stuck here until they clear this up... feh... there goes my day"

<Mondo_Gecko> ...

<Mondo_Gecko> he's been gone a long time

<Mondo_Gecko> what do you think happened?

<HappyLittleMoron> Yeah...I dunno...not shooting or anything...sounded like a crash..or something...

* Mondo_Gecko nods

<Mondo_Gecko> ....maybe I should go look for him

* HappyLittleMoron nods a little

<HappyLittleMoron> Yeah...you be safe...if you need help...call, ok...?

* Well, it's going to take a few hours - they've got traffic going, and the police are pretty much done... the driver gets hauled away in a body bag... but they're just standing around looking at the garbage truck a little helplessly, like it ain't going nowhere. They'll have to call up crews to haul the twisted pole outta the way and tow the truck away.

* Mondo_Gecko nods and gives her a hug

* HappyLittleMoron hugs back..

* FWL_MeRc sighs "c'mon you fucking pigs ... leave!"

* Not to suggest a course of action, but you ARE just down the street from the Asylum. Use your head and you could probably get there without being spotted by anyone who matters.

* Mondo_Gecko gets up and grabs his jacket.. his hair is tied back and he's in an old pair of jeans an a wifebeater*

* Mondo_Gecko leaves though the door *gasp*

* HappyLittleMoron keeps herself from dying from heartfailure!

* Mondo, you are now Outside. As has been seen, there is never any traffic outside the Asylum, and you're pretty normal if a bit green, so you're pretty much unnoticed.

* Mondo_Gecko walks down the street, several ppl skirting out of his way

* You can see what's left of the accident scene down the hill - garbage truck, bakery, lamp pole, cops, broken glass, etc.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...holy shit..

* Mondo_Gecko goes running to the accident

* One of the cops is apparently tired of the car alarms and is going around with his nightstick smashing in windows and reaching under the dash to shut 'em off.

* FWL_MeRc spots mondo running... then the cop "ohh fun"

<Mondo_Gecko> Merc!

<FWL_MeRc> ... *calls out* MONDO YA SHEEPSHAGGER!

* Okay, you're running towards the scene.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...THAT ONLY HAPPENED ONCE

* Never mind, you're now conducting a shouted conversation with a rooftop.

* Mondo_Gecko pushes his way though the crowd and heads up to Merc

<FWL_MeRc> YOU STILL DID IT!!!

<Mondo_Gecko> SO DID YOU

<FWL_MeRc> SUE ME! YOU KNOW I CAN'T GET LAID!!!

* People are looking VERY oddly at you. The cop with the nightstick has paused in midswing and is just staring, feeling like he should be doing something but not quite sure WHAT.

* Merc's weapon, luckily, can't be seen at this angle.

* FWL_MeRc looks around at the unwanted attention " WHO DOWN THERE WILL GIVE A MAN HEAD!? WEAPON NEED ONLY APPLY!"

* Mondo_Gecko laughs!

* Great, Merc, ya just attracted a lot of attention, including about six beefy types shouting obscenities and threats at your implied accusation as to their sexual preference.

<FWL_MeRc> ... *looks down at them and laughs* HEY BEEFY BOYS! GONNA OIL EACH OTHERS ENGINES!?

* Mondo_Gecko acks and squats down, his tail going back and forth, looking like a cat about to spring and he jumps, pulling himself to the top of the lamppost*

* Okay, two of them are just kinda giving you the finger, the third has apparently remembered a previous engagement and gone on their merry way, but three of 'em are coming up the fire escape after you...

* FWL_MeRc watches them and smiles, picking up his weapon "MONDO TAKE BETSY!" *holds it up offering it to be thrown

* Mondo isn't noticed by the sailor types, but his action has pretty much made sure that everyone within a few hundred feet is watching both of you... there's some small scattered applause.

* Mondo_Gecko catches it easily with his tail and pulls it in

<FWL_MeRc> THANK YOU MONDO... I'LL SEE YOU AT HOME!

* Okay, now the cops are officially Interested. They're starting to cluster around the lamppost, one of them shouting something up to Beefy Boys and being ignored. They're almost at the roof.

<Mondo_Gecko> OK!

* Mondo_Gecko grins.

<Mondo_Gecko> ........

<Mondo_Gecko> THAT BASTARD!

* Mondo_Gecko is left stuck at the top of the lamp post holding a gun!

* Mondo_Gecko groans

<Mondo_Gecko> this isn't gonna look good

* Yes, Mondo, you are. And believe me when I say you're about to have a REAL interesting time.

* The cops have their guns out, which has started scattering the pedestrians - out a few dozen feet, anyway.

* FWL_MeRc looks over "hey fella's you know... fighting me is not a good idea... I'm most likly gonna kill all three of ya... but then hey lets have sum fun!"

* Merc, Beefy Boys climb up onto the roof, all truculent and shit.

<FWL_MeRc> don't you guys watch the news?

* They just laugh, one of them stripping off his jacket and throwing it onto the fire escape as they fan out, smacking fists into palms.

* Mondo, you're being ordered to drop the fucking gun.

<FWL_MeRc> now now... 3 on 1 isn't fair is it?

<Guy> "Fairness ain't for faggots, faggot!"

* Mondo_Gecko sighs and drops it, still clinging to the lamp post

* By the way, Betsy just fell into enemy hands.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(I'm gonna kick his ass for this)

<FWL_MeRc> ... *looks over* MONDO YOU LOSE THAT GUN AN I'LL KILL YA!!!... now guys... seriously you should get 3 other people

<cops> "Now come down slowly with your hands-" "Sir, he can't climb if-" "Shut up! Just - just don't be stupid!"

* Mondo_Gecko backs up on the lamp post and hisses loudly..

* One of them is actually looking a little nervous, but the third is SO not caring it balances out - in fact, he comes at you with a vicious haymaker!

* Mondo_Gecko 's tail swishes back and forth in anger.

* One of the cops is definitely calling for backup. The others have their pistols trained on you, one awkwardly pointing a gun and holding Betsy in the other.

<FWL_MeRc> ... MONDO PICK IT UP AND JUMP UP HERE!!! *acks as hes hit with the haymaker* ... ok bitch... you want it you got it! *sends a back hander at the 3rd guy with as much force as he can*

* Beefy #3 grins toothily as his punch connects, then loses most of those teeth over a large area of the roof as you effortlessly whack him about twenty feet to the side, bouncing once and skidding to a halt near the edge of the building.

<FWL_MeRc> ... any other takers?

* Beefy #2 is looking a LOT less sure of himself, and is slowly backing up - Beefy #1 just breaks and makes for the fire escape.

<FWL_MeRc> good boys... *smiles and begins to walk up to beefy guy #3*

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(there's got to be a way out of this....)

* Beefy #2 follows, and they're scrambling down... towards the police, mind you... beefy #3 is huddled up, breathing with a sickening bubbling sound.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(if only I could turn around without them firing at me)

* Mondo, if there is, you'd better make it happen - more sirens are on the way, and they've got their guns on you.

* Calculated risk time, baby.

<FWL_MeRc> OI COPPERS!!! GIMME BACK MY GUN AND LEAVE MY FRIEND ALONE!!!

* Mondo_Gecko stands up slowly on the lamp post and then swallows, closing his eyes

* Merc, you're kind of ignored - until 66% of the Beefy Boys hit ground zero and yammer, gesticulating wildly towards the roof. You're gathering a lot of attention.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( jesus...mohammad...buddha...anyone...)

* Mondo, they're distracted enough not to do anything about it, though several are yelling things along the lines of "Don't move!"

* FWL_MeRc snarls rushing toward the fire escape climbing down as quick as he can

* Mondo_Gecko hunches down again getting his jumping balance and then leaps in the air flipping backwards as far as he can go and lands on the wall of a building behind him!

* Merc, you're fast, but you're not that fast - about halfway down, you are officially climbing towards the ugly ends of police-issue Beretta 92Fs.

* Mondo_Gecko clings to the wall and opens his eyes, dizzy! ..he's facing the ground*

* Mondo_Gecko turns around on the wall and skitters off to the roof

* Mondo, cries of alarm follow - a few rounds smack the wall around you, far off the mark, and the crowd starts screaming and dispersing.

* And by "dispersing" I mean "running like racehorses".

* Mondo_Gecko gets to the top of the roof, laying back, gasping!

* Okay, you're doing the Spiderman thing. A SWAT van is pulling up to the scene.

* FWL_MeRc ACKS then leaps over the side hitting the ground hard "OOF!"

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( I did it.......I did it!!)

* Yep! Mondo's now on a roof. Bet your ass you've got people coming up after you, though, including several members of the SWAT team; the others are converging on Merc's position.

* Merc, you just grounded yourself in an alley, the mouth is filled with cops and SWAT members...

* FWL_MeRc stands up slowly "alright I'll cut a deal with you all... give me back my weapon and I'll let you live"

* Oh, and there's someone who's going to be eating with a straw on the roof with your name all over him.

* Mondo_Gecko gets up again and acks as the swat are after him now, realizing he can't go back to the Asylum

* Mondo, wouldn't say that - but it probably wouldn't be a good idea to take the stairs.

* Merc, everyone just flicked the safeties off. These aren't very diplomatic people.

* Mondo_Gecko turns and takes of running again, very very fast! Roof hopping, trying to lead them as far away from the Asylum as posible

<FWL_MeRc> ... *sighs* look guys... seriously... you start fireing I'll get angry and thus... kill you all

* Mondo, the mighty SWAT members of NYC manage to bust out onto the roof and make it to the next building over, but that's as far as they go - you've lost 'em.

<Cops> "Down on the ground NOW!"

<``Mitch> They're prepping to open fire...

* Mondo_Gecko ducks down the side of a building, skittering down it headfirst and drops into an ally, gasping for breath, sides going in and out like a frightened pannickey lizard

<FWL_MeRc> ... *sighs going down on his knees*

* The gun barrels track you like empty eyes, staring through your own. Two SWAT members come forward, MP5s trained on you at all times, flanking you.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( I think I'm gonna quit hanging out with Merc outside...he causes too much trouble..)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( too many people could get hurt)

* Mondo, you're good... the city's your apple for the plucking at this point, so long as you keep a low profile.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(can't go back home yet though...too dangerous...)

* One of the cops moves forward, tentatively, and starts up the fire escape.

* FWL_MeRc stands up and watches the cop climbing the fire escape "now... gimme the gun"

* Mondo_Gecko looks around and spots a church steeple a few blocks away and heads in that direction, shaking baddly*

* That might not have been the best idea. Everyone - except the cop - freezes, and if they weren't wearing gloves some of those knuckles would be white.

<Cop> "We WILL put you down! On the ground! NOW!"

* Betsy, by the way, is nowhere to be seen.

* Mondo, the church steeple grows - it's a visual thing, not literally growing - pointing up towards the sky like the hand of god itself as you near.

<FWL_MeRc> ... Seriously... You fire one bullet at me and i will KILL you all *eyes flash red*

* Merc... sorry. They cut your legs out from under you, about six men firing simultaneously on burst fire.

* One of the flankers cries out as a missed bullet ricochets and smacks him in the shoulder.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(Jesus)

* HappyLittleMoron cringes, holding Brenna close, ducking down instinctively

* FWL_MeRc lays there snarling waiting for one of them to come up close... there is oddly little blood coming from the wounds

* Mondo_Gecko scowls and heads into the bell tower, exhuasted and laying down on the dusty dirty floor, closing his eyes, catching his breath

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(I have never been so scared before......)

* Mondo, it's all quiet. Because it's a church, and there are certain forms to be followed, a few doves fly by, then land and look a little sheepish, wondering why they're there.

* Mondo_Gecko looks up at the doves and smiles softly

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(ahhh.. the irony of it all)

* Mondo_Gecko clears his throat and makes a soft coooing sound

* FWL_MeRc is peltented is bullets and appears not to be breathing, but the wounds still don't bleed as much as they should

* Mondo, it blinks stupidly at you.

* Mondo_Gecko grins

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(birds are funny....)

* HappyLittleMoron has the sudden craving for chicken...and goes off to fix herself and Brenna some <G>

* there are SO not any bystanders around anymore.

* They're standing down slightly; the flankers pretty much have their gun barrels against your head, as one of them comes forward and checks your pulse.

* FWL_MeRc still has a pulse and its still going as if he wasn't shot if they look IN the wounds they'd see the bullets slowly push out

* They're not looking IN the wounds, but they're looking AT you, and they can see the rounds slowly shuffle towards the surface... they hastily stand away, and the cops start tossing Mr. Pulse handcuffs. He's totally cuffing you up.

* FWL_MeRc opens his eyes slowly looking around

* Mondo_Gecko sniffs a bit and whipes his cheeks

* Mondo, at your grin it starts getting funny racial memories involving lots of teeth and scales, and flies away, beshatting itself in terror.

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* even the birds are scared of me

* Mondo_Gecko puts his head down looking like a sad dog

* Yer surrounded, guns on all sides - all of them pointing at you - and you've got about six pairs of handcuffs on your arms and legs (six each).

* Mondo, the church feels sorry for you, in a silent uninhabited sorta way.

<FWL_MeRc> ... you guys are SO dead

* They're backing the SWAT van up to the alley entrance, and start making movements like they're gonna huck you in the back, clearing the path and such.

* In fact, they DO - about two guys to a side, haul you up and horse you into the back, keeping their weapons trained on you at all times.

* FWL_MeRc snarls squirming aginst the cuffs .oO (days like this... i wish i had my periods"

* Manhandling you in, the four pile in after you - that's about all it can handle - and shut the doors... the van starts up and moves off, you can't really see anything but the floor at this point.

* Betsy is totally MIA.

<FWL_MeRc> FIGHT FAIR YOU BASTARDS!!! AND I WANT MY GUN BACK DAMNIT!!!

* Mondo_Gecko watches over the city outside, the spring sun is warm on his face, but it's still chilly outside

* No response, though you see one boot lift up as if to give you a kick in the cranium, then settle down again at a sharp rejoinder from someone else.

* FWL_MeRc OOFS! "oh... yea big man... why not take off these cuffs!"

<SWAT Guy> .oO(He's kidding, right? Seriously. He's got to be kidding. Does he even COMPREHEND what's going on here?)

* FWL_MeRc snarls contuineing to squirm his wounds still healing slowly barely noticeable

* Merc, ya squirm, ya heal, the van rumbles, the cuffs rattle. This goes on for a while.

* FWL_MeRc snarls very pissed off

* Finally, it stops, idling. Someone up front is speaking to someone else - apparently, they're not quite sure just what to do with you.

* A few minutes later, a decision is reached, and the van pulls forward again. Stops... turns... backs up...

* The back doors pop open, and someone awkwardly climbs in, stepping around you and crouching over your torso. He's bending down, there's a needle in his hand.

* FWL_MeRc suirms violently trying to get rid of the man "GET OFF!"

* He staggers back, trips, and sits down heavily on your ass... the SWATs get all in your face, all four of them pinning you down and grinding your face into the floor of the van...

* FWL_MeRc snarls and holds still "I know what you all smell like... I'll hunt you all down i swear i will!"

* Mr. Needle climbs forward again and slowly, a little hesitantly, probes around your neck... finally, he finds what he's looking for - or hopes he does - and jabs the needle in, tranking you with enough sedative to down an elephant.

* FWL_MeRc eyes roll into his head and he blacks out

* Mondo_Gecko looks up at the city...the insanity seems to have stopped...figuring Merc's either captured or dead he starts down the church again, heading into an ally way and off home

* Mondo_Gecko comes down the ally and springs up to his window

<Mondo_Gecko> ..HLM??!

* HappyLittleMoron looks up

<HappyLittleMoron> Mondo??

* HappyLittleMoron stands* I'm in the kitchen!

* HappyLittleMoron woahs, and suddenly sits down again, pressing a hand to herforehead

* Mondo_Gecko comes down the stairs, he's pale and shaking a little

<Mondo_Gecko> ...hey! ..you ok?!

* Mondo_Gecko rushes over to her

* HappyLittleMoron nods* Yeah...dizzy spell...'snormal...*looks up at hiim and furrows her brow* What happened???

* Mondo_Gecko sighs and sits down, visibly trembling

<Mondo_Gecko> that dumbass set me up!

<Mondo_Gecko> he started picking a fight with a bunch of huge guys and I went up a lamp post so I wouldn't get into it

<Mondo_Gecko> and he threw his gun up and me and I caught it ..well it was thrown at me..

<Mondo_Gecko> so all the cops were gonna shoot me because I had his gun and he ran off to fight those guys!

<Mondo_Gecko> I barely got away by the skin of my teeth!

* HappyLittleMoron reaches over to squeeze his hand gently as she listens, eyes widening* Aw...shit...

<Mondo_Gecko> there was a swat team chasing me across the roof!

<Mondo_Gecko> ..I finnaly lost them...no human can run as fast as I can..

* HappyLittleMoron nods..* Good thing...

* Mondo_Gecko sighs

<Mondo_Gecko> I was hiding in this church tower for a while..had to catch my breath.. by the time I felt like I had enough control of my muscles to make it home it was quiet though

<Mondo_Gecko> ...Merc's either wormfood or he's arrested

* HappyLittleMoron sighs a little and massages her temples* Well...lesse...how would we find thatt out...

<Mondo_Gecko> ....

<Mondo_Gecko> I dunno...

<Mondo_Gecko> don't worry about it hun

* Mondo_Gecko sighs

<Mondo_Gecko> if he's dead we'll hear bout it on the news..

<Mondo_Gecko> if he ain't he'll be back

<HappyLittleMoron> I guess...just...*sighs* Y'know...*shrugs a little, resting her hands on her belly and shifting her wings a little against her back*

<Mondo_Gecko> ...doctor said no stress..

<HappyLittleMoron> I know...I know...*smiles a little* gotta go against my nature...*winks a little*

* Mondo_Gecko smiles

* Mondo_Gecko sighs and puts his head and arms down on the table, looking pooped

<Mondo_Gecko> ...jeeze...I'm surprized I survived that..to be honnest

* HappyLittleMoron chuckles softly* Glad ya did...

<Mondo_Gecko> me too O O

* Mondo_Gecko grins

<Mondo_Gecko> you shoulda seen me jump

* ``Mitch quietly walks upstairs, to Diana's room... outside, he runs one hand over the exit wounds inflicted on the wall, before lifting it and knocking on the doorframe.

<Diana> Come in...

<Mondo_Gecko> I was standing on the lampost and I couldn't jump down.. or look back to see what was there.. and they were gonna open fire so I had to jump into a back flip..when I landed I was facing the ground 4 stories up

* HappyLittleMoron blinks!

<HappyLittleMoron> Woah...

* ``Mitch pushes open the door, poking his head in. "Tomodachi? Is this a bad time?"

* Diana looks up from her writing practice, and smiles, starting to look better* Iie...simply a little pracice...how are you?

<Mondo_Gecko> I felt kinda bad for those people though..they were all screeming

<Mondo_Gecko> they thought I was attacking ppl or something

<Mondo_Gecko> ..that bastard Merc....he set me up...I can't beleive it!

<HappyLittleMoron> I dunno if he really MEANT to do that...

* Mondo_Gecko grumbles, tail thumping the floor

<Mondo_Gecko> ..still can't help but blame him...if he didn;t start fights

<``Mitch> "Okay... a little tired, I guess. Every night there's something else..." He shakes his head, slipping in and scraping the chair over as he takes a seat. "You? You're looking better..."

<Mondo_Gecko> as if there wasn't enough dammage out there

<Mondo_Gecko> ...a trunk ran into a bakery

<Mondo_Gecko> and a lamp post came down..

<Mondo_Gecko> all these cars skidded into eachother too..it was crazy

* Diana smirks a little* I am feeling much better...it would be nice if things calmed down a bit though, hai...

* HappyLittleMoron blinks* Damn..

<Mondo_Gecko> there was glass and cake everywhere

<Mondo_Gecko> ..I mean..normally that sounds cool...free cake..

<Mondo_Gecko> but everyone was really scared

* HappyLittleMoron blinks* The glass would tend to put a damper on that...

* HappyLittleMoron nods...

<Mondo_Gecko> heh...not a good time to start fights with the locals

<HappyLittleMoron> No...not at all

* Mondo_Gecko makes a face

<Mondo_Gecko> glass and lemon cake? no thanks

<HappyLittleMoron> I'm sure the blood coming from the cuts would add a lovely flavor...*wrinkles her nose*

<Mondo_Gecko> .....nasty

* ``Mitch quirks a smile. "For one-fifty a month, I'll suck it down..." Glances down, at two elbows leaned on his knees and two hands folding together, if not necessarily attached to the same arms. "Remember what we were talking about last night? That anyone could learn to defend themselves... in the witchy-finger way, I mean... if you're busy, though-"

* Diana nods...* Hai...*grins a little* Iie...we can start if you want...I could teach you a few simple sheilding spells...

<``Mitch> .oO(-STILL can't believe I'm-) He looks up. "Hai, domo."

* ``Mitch straigtens himself up, pushing his glasses up a little further on his nose.

<Diana> Hmm...first...magic is within us all...and all around us...it is neither good nor evil...it is simply energy...

* ``Mitch nods slowly, taking this in

<Diana> What needs to be learned first is how to sense it...*furrows her brow slightly in thought* Hm...what stands out most to you in your dreams...? Touch, sight, smell or sound...?

<``Mitch> "Well... recently?" His eyes fade slightly, and he looks uneasy as he thinks about it. "...I... sight, I think."

* Diana nods a little* Alright...then it would probably be easier for you to sense magic through sight, then...*hhmms softly...* Have you ever heard of "auras"?

* ``Mitch shakes his head, as he blinks and looks at her instead of his memories.

* Diana smiles a little* An aura is the life energy around every living thing...a kind of magic...with practice you'll be able to see them...then study them...you'll understand how it flows through this...look at me...but focus like you're seeing past me...

* ``Mitch looks at her, reaching up to glasses, adjusting them slightly with a gentle touch

<``Mitch> "...just you, Diana. I'm not seeing anything unusual."

* Diana nods a little and holds up a hand* Ok....look just above my fingertips...staying focused like you're looking beyond them...*if he does it right, he should see a misty sort of white arounnd her hand...*

<``Mitch> "Hai..." He stares at her hand, then past it. Slowly... "...gomen... iie..."

* Diana smiles a little* Just keep looking...your eyes will adjust...here...*closes her eyes, increasing the energy flow to her fingertips...it should make the aura a little easier to see...*

* ``Mitch Several long moments pass, before he leans back, a little frustrated. "Nothing." He whips off his glasses and rubs his eyes, exhaling slowly.

* Diana nods a little* Keep practicing it...one day you will see it...just...frustrating right now...maybe try with your glasses off?

* ``Mitch glances up, glasses still cradled in his hands, and blinks.

* ``Mitch slowly hunches forward... he brings the glasses up for a moment, staring through them, then lets them fall away again...

<``Mitch> Very softly, almost whispered. "Jesus Christ in a rented hamster suit."

* Diana's auraed with a mix of silver, gold and red, those being the colors (usually) easiest to see...*

<``Mitch> "I- I can... jesus, I can SEE you. I mean, the bed's, y'know, a blob, and the walls and shit, and I can't see a damn thing but my own hands but I can see YOU... all, all silvery, with these veins of yellow and red..."

* Diana grins* Ahh...you see the magic then...my aura...

<``Mitch> "It's like... hell, it's like seeing, I don't know, an angel in the clouds..."

<Diana> Hai...a bit...*the aura should shift and swirl like a cloud as well...energy don't stay still <G>*

<``Mitch> "That's... that's magic?"

* Diana nods* Hai...it's how you see it...the magic of living beings..

<``Mitch> Quietly. "I... I j- just... this is... I can SEE..."

* ``Mitch seems a little stuck on this one point

* Diana chuckles softly, leaning back into the pillows* Heh...need a bit of time to get used to it before I summon my sword?

<``Mitch> "I... will NEVER... get used to this."

* ``Mitch toys with it briefly, bringing his glasses up - the aura immediately disappearing - and watching it fade slowly back as he lets them down again

* Diana smiles thinly* Maybe not completely...*her smile turns into a grin* Try looking down at yourself...see what you see...

* ``Mitch looks down at a hand... unfortunately, it's within his natural focal length, and he grimaces, reaching out and splaying his hand at arm's length

<``Mitch> "I... don't have an aura."

* Diana blinks a little and narrows her eyes, trying the same trick, then blinking* Uh...heh! Iie...you don't...*her turn to look shocked...*

<``Mitch> He shrugs, appearing totally unsurprised at this as he lets his hand fall. "Like I've said... I'm just Mitch."

* Diana blinkblinks and hehs* I'm finding that less and less believable by the moment...demo...*summons her sword...usually it's a strange sparkle of light before just popping out of no where, glowing slightly to most psychic visions...*

<``Mitch> <suits> "Why not?" He glances at her, then flinches slightly as the sword manifests, crouching forward and cocking his head as he looks at it with his new eyes, with wonder and amazement...

* Diana grins slightly* Because you are seriously the first person I've ever met who does not have an aura...

* ``Mitch blinks, switching his attention over. "Really?"

* each of the stones in the hilt glow their color, pretty brightly at that..being focal points*

* Diana nods* Hai..

<``Mitch> He chuckles, and holds out his glasses wordlessly.

* Diana chuckles softly* Ne....don't think they'd help...too strong a prescription *winks with a smirk*

* ``Mitch laughs and folds them up, glancing around at the fog before returning his eyes to the crisp - if flowing - vision of Diana and the sword

<``Mitch> "So... I can see... magic? Any magic? Just like this?"

* Diana chuckles softly* I think so...but...I'm going to try something...just to test to see how well you can realy see the energy...tell me what appears to you...*starts taking energy from the sword...it should dim a little...and begins funneling it into herself...then expanding her shields, which are usually skin tight, into a bubble*

* ``Mitch frowns, almost instinctively flicking his glasses on, then forcing them down again. "Umm... the, the silver's been, y'know, swirling... it just hardened, stopped moving, and pushed out into a, a ball, I guess... I can barely see you..."

* Diana nods, letting herself return to normal* Hai...then yes...you can see pretty much any magic like that...

<``Mitch> *prefers it like this - it's Diana-shaped, and that's a nice shape...* .oO(Cut it out.)

<``Mitch> "...hard to believe... I'm... I'm SEEING. I'm seeing MAGIC." His lips quirk slightly. "I don't know how much more I can take..."

<``Mitch> "Fuck it. Blow my mind."

<``Mitch> .oO(You've got a perfectly acceptable excuse to stare at her, but don't overdo it. Mitch. MITCH!) .oO(What? Oh, all right.)

* Diana chuckles* Alright...now close your eyes and imagine seeing yourself as you saw me...

<``Mitch> "Umm... okay..." He closes his eyes for a moment... then, glances up. "Hold on..."

* ``Mitch flicks his glasses in and heads into her bathroom, staring at the mirror for a few seconds before returning to the chair.

<``Mitch> A little apologetically. "Just getting it right."

* Diana chuckles softly* Hai..

* ``Mitch closes his eyes, taking the glasses off and turning them over absentmindedly in his hands as he does as she's described, getting a sort of michaelangelo picture - you know, the one with four arms and legs - in his head, but with less legs and a lot more swirrrly

<Diana> Alright...if you have it...imagine seeing what you saw me do when I thrust my sheild out...only the same thing happening with you...

* ``Mitch furrows his brow as he tries this... absolutely nothing happening on any level

* Diana watches him, starting to look more and more tired, having gotten rid of the sword while he has his eyes closed*

<``Mitch> *slowly, hesitantly - on the mana level - something seems to ripple, push away from his outline, bulge - but then he obviously loses it, and it absorbs back into him without a moment's thought*

<HappyLittleMoron> *Diana smiles a little, nodding lightly*

<``Mitch> Aloud. "I... gomen, tomodachi - I don't think I can do it."

<Diana> Hai...you can...you started to, but stopped...practice that excersize, ne? I think it'll help...

<``Mitch> He blinks, opening his eyes. "I did? Okay... I'll try..."

* Diana smiles at him* Good...when you get that down...we can move on...

<``Mitch> He nods slowly. "How will I know if- oh, hell... I'll try, Diana."

* Diana chuckles* I can always watch you a few of the times when you're doing it...and when you do get it down, you'll feel it...

<``Mitch> He nods, pushing on his glasses almost out of habit... he grimaces as his eyes adjust, then smile. "Okay..."

* Diana leans back, eyes tighting slightly at the pain in her ribs, but still grins lightly* You'll get it with time, Mitch...

<``Mitch> "Domo arigato, D - you've already given me... god, I..." He blinks. .oO(Oh my god... are those tears? You stupid, soft asshole-) "You've given me more than I ever dreamed-"

* Mondo_Gecko sighs, watching over the city on the roof

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(hope she's ok)

* Diana smiles gently and reaches over to squeeze one of his hands gently* Hai...it's my pleasure...I'm glad I can help..

* ``Mitch flicks off his glasses with one hand, swipes a second forearm over his eyes, as he blindly turns the third hand over and takes hers with it and the fourth... "Thank you, tomodachi."

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( ....why am I even thinking about this)

* Mondo_Gecko rubs his head

* Diana smiles with a soft chuckle* You're welcome, my friend...

<``Mitch> "Is there anything I can do? Get you something? Mrs. Happy's cooking? Probably chicken..."

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(it's not like she can be trusted anyway)

* Diana chuckles* Iie...domo...Nox already got me something...and hai...it is more than likely chicken...it's Klork's fault she's getting those cravings...*chuckles softly*

<``Mitch> He glances at her and watches the aura - actually looking at her eyes - for a moment before flicking his glasses back on. "If there's anything I can do for you... just let me know."

* Diana grins as she watches him* Hai...thank you...I will...*smiles a little tiredly* I'm sure when I first start moving around, I'll need the help...

<``Mitch> "Like I said..." .oO(She's still holding your hand.) *tongue stumbles* "y- you're always welcome to, y'know, a shoulder. I've got plenty. To lean on."

* Diana chuckles softly, giving his hand a soft squeeze before letting go, settling it with the other on her lap* Hai...I know...the offer goes both ways...

<``Mitch> He nods, his mouth quirking as his hand retreats to the safety of its companions. "I may take you up on that, when you're feeling better."

* Diana chuckles softly, leaning her head back against the pillows* Any time you need it...

<``Mitch> "Until then, though - rest... feel better, dammit! That's an order."

* Diana grins and does a mock salute* I shall do my best...take care...

* ``Mitch pushes himself up, and bows. "Domo... seriously... thank you..."

* NeilO`Conner walks into the asylum looking around, dressed in his Camo trousers and dark green vest

* Diana smiles up at him, shifting a little down in her bed* You're more than welcome...be safe, alright...?

* NeilO`Conner looks around "now... where's that... guy"

<``Mitch> "I'll do my best." He gives her a half-smile in return, trying not to blush - not getting flustered IS something he's been practicing - and mostly accomplishing his goal... stepping out, he quietly closes the door behind him.

* Diana chuckles very softly to herself, as she lets herself fall asleep once he's gone*

* ``Mitch just walks down the hall, shaking his head... he rubs his chin, and heads downstairs

* NeilO`Conner looks over at mitch "ah... life"

* ``Mitch glances at Neil. "I'm sorry?"

* HappyLittleMoron munches in the kitchen with Brenna...

<NeilO`Conner> I'l looking for your help

<``Mitch> He frowns slightly. "And you are...?" .oO(Haven't seen him before...)

<NeilO`Conner> you know where i can find blue boy?

<NeilO`Conner> AKA Smurf

<``Mitch> "...you mean Merc?"

<NeilO`Conner> thats the one

<``Mitch> "Now that we know who you're looking for, let's go back to the part about who you are. And tack on why you're looking for him."

* ``Mitch may not be particularly fond of Merc in all his glory, but strangers asking questions about non-strangers always, ALWAYS meet resistance...

<NeilO`Conner> I assume you know how strong he is... well so am i... so answer me if you know... and you'll keep the ability to chew solid food *smiles*

* HappyLittleMoron comes out of the kitchen and blinnks at Neil...

<``Mitch> "I don't like threats. They tend to make me break out in 'fuck you'."

<HappyLittleMoron> If you want answeres you're not gettin' 'em here, pal...

* ``Mitch tenses, prepared to bolt

* NeilO`Conner looks at moron"ahh... a similar face"

* NeilO`Conner shakes his head "not one of ours though"

<HappyLittleMoron> ...who are you?

* HappyLittleMoron 's eyes glow slightly as she looks over his energy patterns

* NeilO`Conner is unusally similar to merc

<NeilO`Conner> doing my job

* ``Mitch slowly backs up the stairs

<NeilO`Conner> simple question with a simple answer

* HappyLittleMoron crosses her arms

<HappyLittleMoron> Like hell. We don't take kindly to people coming in and asking questions out of the blue...ESPECIALLY without knowing who they are and why they're asking.

<NeilO`Conner> if i told you that... you'd be dead... and i want info, thus it nigates the point

* ``Mitch slips upstairs and down the hall to his room... he picks up the AK-47, still leaning against the dresser from where he set it, and eases the bolt back. .oO(Here we go again.)

* HappyLittleMoron smiles sweetly* Find it somewhere else. Now get the hell out of my house.

<``Mitch> .oO(Honestly. I just want to leave this thing where I left it for twenty-four hours. Is that so much to ask?)

<NeilO`Conner> ahhh toché well then guess i best leave then

* ``Mitch quietly approaches the top of the stairwell, rifle held low and out of sight, glancing downstairs and appraising the situation

* HappyLittleMoron doesn't take her glowing eyes from Neil, motioning towards the door

* NeilO`Conner smiles and heads toward the door "just means i won'r be nice to him when i find hime"

<HappyLittleMoron> Which I doubt you will witth that method. *smirks, flaring her wings slightly instinctively*

<NeilO`Conner> don't worry... soon blueboy will be returned to where it belongs

<HappyLittleMoron> <q>...you're from that lab...

<NeilO`Conner> your point?

* HappyLittleMoron shakes her head slightly* Well...just makes me more sure you'll be the one who dies if you find him.

<NeilO`Conner> we'll see... *smirks and walks out*

* ``Mitch , once Neil has left, sighs and trots downstairs with the rifle up on one shoulder... "What is it about me that pisses people off?"

<HappyLittleMoron> I don't think it's you in specific, Mitch 'mboy...I think there's just a lot of PMS going around

<``Mitch> "I guess." He shakes his head. "I think I'll stick around down here for a while just in case some comes back..."

* Mondo_Gecko comes down from the roof

* HappyLittleMoron nods...* Prob'ly a good idea...y' hungry at all?

* HappyLittleMoron looks up and wavels to Mondo

<Mondo_Gecko> ..what's goin on?

<HappyLittleMoron> Some guy from a lab lookin' fer Merc...

<``Mitch> "Always... hi, Mondo."

<Mondo_Gecko> ..hi

<Mondo_Gecko> I dunno where Merc went

<HappyLittleMoron> Heh...neither do we...

<``Mitch> He glances at the AK-47. "Don't mind me. That guy was just... rude."

<Mondo_Gecko> ..what guy?

<HappyLittleMoron> The guy who was just looking for Merc...

<Mondo_Gecko> oh..

* Mondo_Gecko scratches the back of his neck

* ``Mitch slings it casually under one arm - the perfect accessory for the distinguished gutter rat - as he goes into the kitchen and fishes out a beer from the fridge

* ``Mitch has absolutely no idea that Merc has been taken away, of course

* HappyLittleMoron shrugs a little and catches Brenna as she runs by from the workout room, Iris having snuck down with Nox..

<HappyLittleMoron> Wheeeeeeeere's the fire, kiddo? *hefts the girl up and looks into her eyes*

* Brenna blinks* Dere no fire....I don't feel like practicing...

* ``Mitch re-enters the room and leans against the wall... "Hi, Brenna..." *sip*

* Brenna smiles and wavels to Mitch* Hi!

<HappyLittleMoron> Eh...*gently takes her daughter's chin between two of her thumb and forefinger, turningg the little girl's head so they're eye to eye again* Tough cookies...*carries her towards the workout room..* It's practicing time now...

* Brenna wrinkles up her nose* Why??

* ``Mitch chuckles, watching.

<HappyLittleMoron> 'Cause I say so. *sets Brenna down* You don't wanna dissapoint your daddie and me, do you?

* Brenna pouts and shhakes her head* But...

<``Mitch> .oO(Go get 'em! Fight 'em! Stick it to the man!)

<HappyLittleMoron> No buts...*nudges her towards Iris and Nox* Go on...*Brenna grudgingly heads over, pouting a little the whole time* Good girl...you and Iris can color afterwards...

* HappyLittleMoron watches a little longer while the two girls go about doing their thing before heading back out to the main room, grinning a little and shaking her head

* Mondo_Gecko heads back up to his room and gets out his guitar laying back on the bed and starts to play

<``Mitch> "Cute kids... I like that. 'Learn how to kneecap a guy and you can color afterwards!'" He grins, taking another sip - obviously being in good humor about it.

* Mondo_Gecko sings out

<Mondo_Gecko> "Don't look don't look" the shadows breathe

<Mondo_Gecko> Whispering me away from you

<Mondo_Gecko> "Don't wake at night to watch her sleep

<Mondo_Gecko> You know that you will always lose

<Mondo_Gecko> This trembling

<Mondo_Gecko> Adored

<Mondo_Gecko> Tousled bird mad girl... "

<Mondo_Gecko> But every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> But every night I call your name

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I fall again

<Mondo_Gecko> "Oh don't talk of love" the shadows purr

<Mondo_Gecko> Murmuring me away from you

<Mondo_Gecko> "Don't talk of worlds that never were

<Mondo_Gecko> The end is all that's ever true

<Mondo_Gecko> There's nothing you can ever say

<Mondo_Gecko> Nothing you can ever do... "

<Mondo_Gecko> Still every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I scream your name

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night the dream's the same

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Waiting for my only friend

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Waiting for the world to end

<Mondo_Gecko> "Just paint your face" the shadows smile

<Mondo_Gecko> Slipping me away from you

<Mondo_Gecko> "Oh it doesn't matter how you hide

<Mondo_Gecko> Find you if we're wanting to

<Mondo_Gecko> So slide back down and close your eyes

<Mondo_Gecko> Sleep a while

<Mondo_Gecko> You must be tired... "

<Mondo_Gecko> But every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I call your name

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I fall again

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Scream the animal scream

<Mondo_Gecko> Every night I burn

<Mondo_Gecko> Dream the crow black dream

* Mondo_Gecko sighs and goes abd puts on Eye by Smashing pumpkins

* HappyLittleMoron streatches a little, sitting on one of the couches and resting her hands oover her belly

* ``Mitch just leans against the wall, AK-47 cradled, sipping at his beer and watching the door ruminantly.

* ``Mitch glances at HLM... with his free hand, he takes off his glasses, and feels the strange visual twist as one pair of eyes gives way to the other

* HappyLittleMoron 's got a FUNKY aura <G> Neon green, seeming to almost glow with black, what seems to be bits of starlight and blood threading through her aura <G>

* AriaStormsinger shakes herself, coming out of some apparently intense reverie

* AriaStormsinger watches for a few moments.

* HappyLittleMoron 's seemingly obliviouse, watching out the window

* AriaStormsinger feels really hungry and slips off to the kitchen

* ``Mitch glances at Aria as she passes...

<AriaStormsinger> <quietly> Hi Mitch.

* ``Mitch stares for a moment, tripping on the metaverse, then snaps out of it, flicking his glasses on and blinking a little. "Hi, Aria... how're you doing?"

<AriaStormsinger> Okay. I think I need some food, and to go out for awhile. How are you?

<``Mitch> "I'm okay..." He walks into the kitchen with her, leaning against the counter... muttered, "...a little weirded out, but..."

* Mondo_Gecko comes downstairs, he looks like he has something on his mind

* HappyLittleMoron looks up at Mondo

<HappyLittleMoron> Sup?

<Mondo_Gecko> not much..

* AriaStormsinger hands Mitch an orange.

* AriaStormsinger peels her own.

<``Mitch> "Thinking of anywhere in particular?"

<Mondo_Gecko> just getting some food

<AriaStormsinger> No. I just want to see the sky.

<AriaStormsinger> Why are you weirded out?

* ``Mitch bites into the orange like anyone else would an apple, and stands there chewing with juice dripping down his chin

* AriaStormsinger stares, then giggles

* Mondo_Gecko heads into the kitchen and blinks

<Mondo_Gecko> .....

<Mondo_Gecko> and I thought I ate weird shit

<AriaStormsinger> Silly! I think you're supposed to peel it first!

<AriaStormsinger> Hi Mondo!

* AriaStormsinger wipes Mitch's chin with a gentle finger.

* AriaStormsinger smiles at Mondo and offers him an orange.

* ``Mitch shrugs, taking another bite. "-mrph. You eat it your way, I'll eat it my way."

* Mondo_Gecko is crackling with electricity..it's pretty bright

<``Mitch> "Well, if you've got nothing in mind - how about we drop by NYU? I'd like to take a look around..."

<AriaStormsinger> Yes. Let's. But...I'll be right back.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...

<``Mitch> "Okay..."

* AriaStormsinger runs up the stairs, her bare heels kicking up the back of her new purple skirt

* Mondo_Gecko remembers what Stacie said about NYU again

* ``Mitch heads upstairs and gets changed, carefully jacketing up

<Mondo_Gecko> ...umm...can I come?

* ``Mitch assumes Mondo says this as he comes back down

<``Mitch> "Uh... Mondo, no offense, but you're just a little high-profile." He glances down at his hidden second arms. "I'm trying to, y'know, be human on this one."

* AriaStormsinger comes back wearing tennis shoes, a white sweater over her purple silk shirt, and a knit cap over her blue hair

<Mondo_Gecko> ....whatever

* Mondo_Gecko snorts and turns his back, walking off to the kitchen again

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(little snot)

<``Mitch> Muttered. "What's bugging him?"

<``Mitch> "Mrs. Happy, you going to be okay? I'm going out for a while..."

* HappyLittleMoron nods* I'll be ok, Mitch. *smiles over at hiim* Take care.

* AriaStormsinger runs up and puts her hand in one of Mitch's. "I'm ready!"

* ``Mitch blinks at this, but mentally shrugs... .oO(Like you said, she's just a child.)

* ``Mitch walks out... down the intersection, they've finally got a tow truck almost as big as the garbage truck, with a couple of construction workers prying the rubble away from it

* AriaStormsinger watches the construction, etc.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch?

* ``Mitch looks around for a taxi... muttered, "...never around when you need... c'mon, let's go that way, it's a busier... yeah?"

<AriaStormsinger> How do you make a little kid like you again?

* ``Mitch blinks, glancing at her. "What?"

* AriaStormsinger looks down and scuffs the ground with a toe of her new gleaming shoes

<AriaStormsinger> I think something happened a couple days ago that scared Brenna.

<``Mitch> "Oh."

<AriaStormsinger> She's scared of me and I don't know how to fix it.

<``Mitch> "I... shit, Aria..." He reaches up and rubs his neck with his free hand. "I don't know... candy? I guess?"

<AriaStormsinger> Candy?

<``Mitch> He shrugs, a little helplessly. "Kids like candy. I don't know, really..."

* AriaStormsinger gives Mitch a look like: "You're a crazy goof."

<AriaStormsinger> Can we go underground to NYU?

<``Mitch> "Well, we could take the subway. I don't have any tokens, though."

<AriaStormsinger> Aww.

<AriaStormsinger> We could ask someone for some.

<``Mitch> .oO(Christ, boy, you've panhandled before.) "Nah, we don't need to do that. We can buy some."

<AriaStormsinger> Okay! *happily*

<``Mitch> He chuckles, shaking his head, and gestures down the street to where the next entrance is.

* Mondo_Gecko whines and sits down at the kitchen table..going stir crazy from boredom

* AriaStormsinger glances at an elegant woman walking by

* AriaStormsinger straightens a little, adjusts her scarf, and walks on with her nose a little higher in the air

* ``Mitch glances at Aria, and jogs her elbow. "Quit that."

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(If I was myself again my whole life would be perfect)

<AriaStormsinger> What? How come?

<``Mitch> He founders for a moment, searching for a way to put it into words. "-why would you wanna be her? What's wrong with being Aria?"

* AriaStormsinger thinks about that.

<AriaStormsinger> I want to be like everyone.

<``Mitch> He just blinks.

<``Mitch> "Why?"

<AriaStormsinger> Because everyone's interesting?

<``Mitch> "Believe me, there are many, many uninteresting people. That was probably one of 'em."

<AriaStormsinger> *giggles*

<``Mitch> "Besides, you can't be like a lot of people."

<AriaStormsinger> I know we can't. Because we're different at the asylum.

<``Mitch> .oO(Among other things, I haven't met a single uninteresting person there yet. That's VERY different.)

* AriaStormsinger skips down the subway stairs

<``Mitch> "You can be yourself, though. Isn't that interesting? Aren't you interesting?"

* ``Mitch pulls out his scrappy wallet and gets a dozen tokens, handing one to Aria and stuffing the rest in his pocket

* AriaStormsinger turns around at the bottom of the stairs, sniffing at the sour, stale air

* ``Mitch literally doesn't even notice

* AriaStormsinger accepts the token, looking it over in her slim palm

<AriaStormsinger> <q> I could be interesting.

* AriaStormsinger watches the folks on the platform

* ``Mitch points at the gate. "See that little slot thing? You drop the token in and then you can walk through the gate."

* AriaStormsinger complies.

<AriaStormsinger> It's cold.

<``Mitch> .oO(Unless you're in a hurry, in which case you jump it and get the crowd between you and the keepers.)

<``Mitch> "Metal is, yeah. C'mon, you're interesting."

* ``Mitch follows behind her, closing his eyes for a moment and picturing the subway map in his mind, picking out which track they need

* AriaStormsinger hears a rumble coming from a distance.

* AriaStormsinger tries to stand her ground, like everyone else.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( ..I know...I can get into trouble)

* HappyLittleMoron ...flips on the news <G>

* ``Mitch stands by the tracks, actually relaxing a little in the familiar environment

* AriaStormsinger stands very close to Mitch as the dragon arrives.

<AriaStormsinger> *Ok, so it's a subway train. She's got a very active imagination.*

* Mondo_Gecko goes to the kitchen and gets a canaloupe from the fridge and sets up beer bottles in the hallway leading up to the door and starts a game of bowling

<Mondo_Gecko> *SMASH* *SMASH*

<Mondo_Gecko> *SMASH*

* ``Mitch waits as the dragon rushes in, screeches to a halt, opens its jaws - and then cheerfully walks in, turning around in the great beast's mouth and waiting expectantly...

* AriaStormsinger closes her eyes and walks forward.

* AriaStormsinger opens her eyes on the stairwell. "Cool"

<Mondo_Gecko> *beer leaks on the floor*

<``Mitch> "Don't block it up - c'mere..."

<News> What appeared to be an oversized smurf wiith large weopenry and a walking lizard attacked the police today at the site of an accident today. *shows shots of Merc 'n Mondo* In other news, there's a new technique in eliminating jock itch and yeast infections...

* AriaStormsinger steps up with Mitch

* Mondo_Gecko cackles!

* HappyLittleMoron snickers

<Mondo_Gecko> *SMASH*

<Mondo_Gecko> whoo!

<HappyLittleMoron> Fox News su...uhm...

* HappyLittleMoron turns* ...what are you doing?

* Mondo_Gecko jumps and skitters up the wall!

* HappyLittleMoron switches to NBC

* HappyLittleMoron mutters

<Mondo_Gecko> ..beer bowling

* HappyLittleMoron manafests her rubber band gun and squeezes off a few shots at Mondo* Go clean it up...

* Mondo_Gecko looses his grip and lands onf the floor with a thud

<Mondo_Gecko> ..awww ma!!

* Mondo_Gecko grumbes and goes to clean it up

<HappyLittleMoron> Don't you aww ma, me, young man! <G>

* Mondo_Gecko grins evilly

<Mondo_Gecko> ...if I'm rilly bad to I get spanked?

<News> "Our top story this evening. The relatively peaceful facade of downtown New York was shattered today as a garbage truck apparently lost all power to its brakes and careened through an intersection, smashing open a storefront and causing several minor injuries... and again, as a pair of mutants interrupted police's attempts to control scene of the accident."

* HappyLittleMoron eyes Mondo...takes careful aim...*SNAP*...rubber band to the crotch

* AriaStormsinger sits down between an old black man with a stiff grey beard, wearing a derby hat, and a 40-something-year-old woman wearing a whole bunch of rags and wrinkles and bad smells, rocking and muttering to herself.

<Mondo_Gecko> O O

* HappyLittleMoron hehs..

<Mondo_Gecko> I take that as a no

<HappyLittleMoron> Eeeeeeeexactly <G>

* Mondo_Gecko goes and gets a mop, mopping up beer and picking up the glass

<HappyLittleMoron> Anyway, I'm a married woman..*turns back to the news*

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(must...doo...stuuffffff)

* AriaStormsinger looks to her right.

* AriaStormsinger looks to her left.

* AriaStormsinger winks at Mitch.

* AriaStormsinger quietly glows.

* Mondo_Gecko finnishes cleaning

<Mondo_Gecko> now what..

<HappyLittleMoron> Hmm...

<HappyLittleMoron> Dance for me!

<News> "The mutants proceeded to shout obscenities at bystanders, drawing attention to themselves and distracting the attempts of workers to remove the injured. A FPN-90 machinegun was recovered from one; these mutants were heavily armed and extremely dangerous, as one young man in traction can attest to."

* HappyLittleMoron blinks...

<HappyLittleMoron> Gah..

<Mondo_Gecko> ...I DID NOT

<Mondo_Gecko> ....I was shouting obsenities at Merc

<Mondo_Gecko> HE was shouting obsenities at ppl

<HappyLittleMoron> Heh...but who was Merc shouting them at?

<HappyLittleMoron> There you have it <G>

* Mondo_Gecko sighs

<Mondo_Gecko> I think I'm gonna hang out with Merc less

<Mondo_Gecko> he's turning me into a criminal when I'm just a petty thug

<HappyLittleMoron> Yeaaah...wonder where he is...*looks to the TV...*

<News> "One, described best as a 'heavily muscled, blue-furred hybrid of human and hedgehog', was placed under custody after resisting arrest and attempting to attack authorities. The other, a 'bipedal reptile with long black hair', escaped capture, climbing up a building and away from pursuit."

<HappyLittleMoron> Hmm...

<News> "This mutant has exhibited superhuman strength, speed, and an almost unbelievable jumping skill; it is still at large. If you spot anything resembling this description, do not attempt to apprehend or approach; the NYPD has requested you immediately call them or 911."

<Mondo_Gecko> ......

<Mondo_Gecko> NNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

* Meahwhile*

<HappyLittleMoron> Aack...

<``Mitch> > "The accident itself claimed the life of the driver, one Larry Jackson. The passenger claims the brakes simply failed as it approached the intersection; details, at this point, are still unknown."

<News> "In other news, fluffy happy rabbits." *cuts to stock footage of bunnies hopping around a field*

* HappyLittleMoron takes aim and shoots rubber bands at the bunnies

* Dr Thomas sits smoking quietly in the lab, watching the televison: *w* ..Shawn Shawn Shawn......so you finnaly show your ugly face

* ``Mitch is standing in the subway yet, not even thinking about it, just shifting with the movements of the train

* A thin lady doctor with a slightly pointed nose and thin blond hair and glasses watches* ...it's him?

<Dr Thomas> ...him..

<Shingami> Hey any one down here?

<Dr Feildings> are you sure this is right?

* HappyLittleMoron runs out of rubber bands and blows over the tip of the gun, a la Clint Eastwood

<Dr Thomas> ...he's ours Lisa...he belongs to us

* HappyLittleMoron blinks and wavels to Shin

* HappyLittleMoron gets up and starts cleaning up rubber bands* Hihi

<Dr Thomas> ...now I want you to get out there..and find me that lizard....and while your at it find that other girl...maybe eggs ARE a possibility?

<Shingami> not to be the pesimist.. since i am opatimistacly challanged but i have a baaad feeling someone is missing again

<HappyLittleMoron> Yep...that would be Merc...he's under arrest...SWAT team got 'im...

* Mondo_Gecko is furiously banging his head against the wall

<HappyLittleMoron> And...Mondo's giving himselfff a cuncuuussion...

* Gregg_The_Grimreaper poofs into the asylum

* HappyLittleMoron heads over to Mondo* Heeyy...

<Shingami> *sigh*

* Mondo_Gecko whines!!!!

<Mondo_Gecko> I'm stuck in a cage again!

* HappyLittleMoron blinks at Gregg, rolls her eyes and goes back to patting Mondo on the back* Hey...it's a nice cage though...

<Mondo_Gecko> everywhere I go I end up stuck in a cage!!

<Mondo_Gecko> ...

<Mondo_Gecko> it's STILL a cage

* Mondo_Gecko 's tail lashes furiously back and forth

<Shingami> if no one minds im goign out for a bit.. tell my bro if he shwos up im at an arcade....you smell someghing(refering to poof)

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> ahhh Hello... you bloody pounces

* subway goes chakachakachakachakachakachakachakachaka*

* AriaStormsinger goes *glow glow happy happy glow glow happy*

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(and I'll never find her)

* The old black man and the scary old lady smile and relax

* half the people on the subway train, the ones who know it, start singing the Happy Happy Joy Joy song*

<HappyLittleMoron> Ok Shin...yeah, midget Death is here...

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> ... yea... close your legs woman *walks under shins legs cause hes's only 2 feet tall*

* AriaStormsinger smiles at Mitch.

<Shingami> hi shorty

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> ahhh... so this is the non union punk death

* ``Mitch just chuckles, shaking his head... Shin's fence still blocking the happy joy waves, but amused at what they've done to the normal train crowd

<Shingami> Look short stuff I am not a punk there IS no union.

* Mondo_Gecko slides down the wall

* Gregg_The_Grimreaper would roll his eyes... if he had eyes " yea yea thats what they all say!"

<Shingami> riiiiiight... well if you excuse me toad stool i have a mission to compleat

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> what? see how many cats you can molest? ... *mutters* hate those things

<Shingami> meh?

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> game set and MATCH to Gregg! THE Grimreaper

* HappyLittleMoron blinks at Gregg and Shiin, then kneels by Mondo hugging him

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* my life is over

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* I'm gonna die in these four walls

* HappyLittleMoron blinks

<Shingami> why do i ahve the sudden urge to punt you though a portal into the atlantic?

<HappyLittleMoron> No..

<HappyLittleMoron> Just lay low for a while...

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> why do i have the sudden urge to... erm...

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> ...

<Shingami> shrot size.. loss of gray matter...hn.. well ja minasan

<HappyLittleMoron> See ya Shin...take care...

<Shingami> Will do.

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* I'm not hiding here because of what Merc did..I can move around without being seen

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> HEY!

* Shingami heads out the door and to her newest fave hangout.. the local poliece station

* HappyLittleMoron nods...* <q> Ok...sso long as you're careful...wouldn't want anythin' ta happen to ya...

* Mondo_Gecko nods

<Gregg_The_Grimreaper> bah... no respect for the unions

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* I'll be fine..

* HappyLittleMoron nods a little, rubbing his back lightly

* Shingami eventualy gets there but walks into the alley beside the building fading into the shadows and though the wall. appears on the other side compleatly invisable

* The pimply faced technician swiveled nervously in his chair as the man in the black pants and silk shirt entered behind him.

<PFT> Here, sir. We're tracking her moving south along 14th Ave.

* Mondo_Gecko gets up and wanders upstairs and grabs his old black cloak, it covers him from head to foot, making him look like some kind of satanic figure, pulling up the hood, his face is hidden

* Torres leaned over the monitor, a slow smile crossing his face. His dark ponytail fell over one shoulder as he raised a hand, tracing the path of the blinking electric pulse with one finger.

* HappyLittleMoron blinks a little

* Shingami starts walking though the poliece station unseen lookign for the reccord room

<Torres> Good. Keep me posted. *He stalks from the room...

<Shingami> (now if i were a file room where would I be...)

* Mondo_Gecko jumps off and starts moving across the buildings, getting up speed, sick of not moving and sitting still, his muscles burning with frustration and agony, heart pounding in pain and his lungs struggling for air

* HappyLittleMoron sighs a little and lets Iris and Brenna color

* An intern rushes out of an office at the police station clutching files and hits Shingami, stumbling back and losing a few files

* She looks around, flustered, then starts scooping up paperwork

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( Don't look don't look the shadows breathe, whispering me away from you)

* OfficerJohnson "Smoooooooooth, Caswell."

* Intern Caswell: "Shut up and help me! The Captain needs these."

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(everynight I burn....everynight I fall again)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(oh don't talk of love the shadows purr...murmmuring you away from me)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( Don't talk of world that were never true)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(the ends all that's ever true)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(everynight I burn, waiting for my only friend...everynight I burn...waiting for the world to end)

* Mondo_Gecko leaps across to buildings and lands crouched like some demonic gargoyle

* Jaerlani yawns and heads down the stairs to the kitchen, opening the refrigerator to take out some eggs to cook.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO("just paint your face" the shadows smile. Slipping me away from you, Oh it doesn't matter how you hide, We'll find you if were wanting to)

<``Mitch> Muttered. "...okay, we should be there by now."

* AriaStormsinger drops her happy glow work

<``Mitch> *as if on cue, the subway comes into the station, slowing and stopping*

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(So slide back down and close your eyes...sleep a while you must be tired)

* AriaStormsinger bumps into the old man, then bounces off into the old woman. She smiles and giggles at them, then hops up and follows Mitch out

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(and everynight I burn..Screem the animal screem)

* Shingami slips into the file room

* ``Mitch heads up the stairs into... well, the smoglight

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(everynight I burn.....)

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* dream the crowblack dream

<Shingami> (ok now would they be stupid enough to hide all mutant related files in the saem place..)

<AriaStormsinger> *The file cabinets loom ominously over Shin.

* AriaStormsinger shivers a little as NYU comes into sight.

<Shingami> (ok this is big)

* Mondo_Gecko throws his head back and gives a loud Screeee!! against the twilight

* Jaerlani fries up some eggs for her p.m. breakfast and serves them on a plate for herself, then sits down to eat.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch...?

<``Mitch> "Yeah?" He's turning around, trying to work out where to head.

<AriaStormsinger> Do you think anyone will recognize us...from that night?

* Shingami starts with the obvious alphabeticaly organized thing.. but keepign an eye out for anything labled mutants

<``Mitch> Quietly. "I doubt it. I had on a cap, low over my face, and everyone was looking at my arms. That's hidden now. So I'm pretty sure I'm safe. I don't think they'd look twice at you, either, so long as you stay normal."

<Shingami> (just gotta hope i can avoide any more contact. if i got caught... ohh that would be bad for the asylum.. nto tomention me)

* A guy in a white shirt and badge comes in, sets down a coffee on top of a cabinet next to Shin and starts rustlnig through the files

<AriaStormsinger> Normal. Okay.

<Shingami> (so figures)*peers at what hes looking though*

* AriaStormsinger tugs her cap down.

<``Mitch> "Just keep spreading the good vibes around. Everyone'll be happy."

* He pulls out a file on Anderson something, too fast to read it, and heads out *forgetting the coffee*

<AriaStormsinger> You -- you think so?

* AriaStormsinger smiles

<AriaStormsinger> Wait, that's what makes me interesting. Right?

<``Mitch> He glances down and quirks a smile. "I'd say that makes you VERY interesting. Most people need a lighter."

* The guy dodges back in to grab his coffee, spots the open file drawer Shin's been working in and shuts it, then heads out

* AriaStormsinger smiles more and starts casting as they move.

<Shingami> (gerrrr.. humans)* continues though the isles of things looking for Y*

* ``Mitch heads for the physics building, which he ascertains by his superior intellect and logical skills, and by the fact that his controller decides so

* AriaStormsinger trots along, watching the college students curiously as they pass, usually lighting up with their own rare smiles

* ``Mitch pauses outside, by an oak tree... he runs his hand up it, to where a baseball-sized shaft runs at an angle towards the sky, the edges crisped

* AriaStormsinger sees a security guard watching them suspiciously from a few hundred yards away.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch?

* AriaStormsinger takes a deep breath.

<``Mitch> "Yeah?" He has a pensive look on his face.

* AriaStormsinger does her best to direct a happy vibe cast that long distance...

<AriaStormsinger> Someone's watching us.

* AriaStormsinger fails miserably

<``Mitch> Never changing expression, voice still even. "Well, let's walk inside, shall we?"

<AriaStormsinger> Um. Might be good.

* ``Mitch gives the tree a knock with his knuckles and heads towards the building

* AriaStormsinger holds up one of her palms and mutters at it.

* AriaStormsinger follows Mitch

* ``Mitch looks at the building directory as he opens the door, holding it open for Aria... muttered, "Dr. Graves, Dr. Graves..."

<AriaStormsinger> Who's Dr. Graves?

<``Mitch> Quietly. "I have no idea, but Stacie seemed to think he'd be a help... ah. Here we are."

<AriaStormsinger> Stacie? *looks worried*

* AriaStormsinger grabs Mitch's arm. "But Stacie's not herself lately!"

* Mondo_Gecko sighs, settling on a high building top eventually, looking down over the city, exhausted, his sides going in and out as he catches his breath

<``Mitch> "You're telling me... look, she didn't know she'd be helping when she mentioned him."

<AriaStormsinger> Oh. Ok.

<``Mitch> "Yeah, it was one of those things. C'mon, let's go see the good doctor."

* Somewhere in the City, Jess the Big Bad Hit Man slams Mondo/Shawn's dad to a wall by the throat

<Shingami> (now what was that guy's name again... Sajak...lets see if your in here somewhere)

* Sajak comes into the room with Shin, walks to a file cabinet, and opens it.

* Jess leans forward, sliding a knife blade inch by inch into the now shrieking man, then twists it

* Sajak ruffles through some papers, takes one out, and closes the cabinet.

* Jess leans even closer, whispering of the sins of the father as the man sobs

<Shingami> (think of the devil)*goes over and looks over his shoulder stil lincasable

* Sajak rubs his temples as he walks out of the room with the file.

<Shingami> (follow the leader)*follows him*

* Sajak walks around some turns in the corridor until he gets to an office with his name on the door and goes inside, closing the door behind him.

* Shingami closes her eyes and wlaks though the door, semi spector look to her if you could see that

* Sajak is sitting at his desk reading something.

* Shingami looks but doesnt touch all the stuff in there

* Sajak is reading a report on an incident that happened in Queens three nights ago.

* Shingami looks for some specific files... ie record on the inhabitence of the asylum

* ``Mitch adjusts his glasses slightly, shoulders straigthening as he walks

<Shingami> (come on ding bat you have to have them)

* AriaStormsinger watches and imitates.

<Sajak> *The file Sajak is reading about reports a break-in in which three occupants of the house were burned to death. The bodies were the only things in the house that were burned, and there were no traces of fuel on any of the bodies.*

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(.....I wonder what she's up to...)

* ``Mitch knocks on the door to Dr. Graves's office when they get there... quietly, "Don't be surprised by anything I say."

* AriaStormsinger raises a brow

* Shingami sits down on a chair in Sajak's office* Sajak puts down the file he is reading and picks up another, detailing the burned remains of a group of nine teenagers showing no traces of fuel on the bodies.*

* Sajak looks around as the chair Shin sits in creaks a little.

<Shingami> (why do i have a feelign were being set up...)

* Sajak rubs his temples as he skins the text.

* Jess drops Shawn's dad. "Don't ever touch the woman again," he growls, and stalks off.

* Shingami does a passive telepathic scan of Sajack (if hes got a game show fettish im so gunna laugh)

* As Shin gets a chance to look more closely, she can see Sajak's notebook sitting on his desk next to the file he just put down.*

<Shingami> (oohh.. now if only i can get that thing...)

* AriaStormsinger quietly starts glowing again...

<Sajak> .oO(Why would The Insurgence target a group of mutants?)

<``Mitch> * Dr. Graves opens the door. "Can I help you?"

<Sajak> .oO(Julia is gonna kill me if I come home late again.)

* Shingami casts lock and silence on the door. also casts darkness before becomign visable

<Shingami> Evening Sajak... do not scream or go for your gun or the phone

* Sajak jumps out of his chair, placing his hand on the handle of his revolver.

* Shingami i sittign in a chair feet on his desk

* Shingami is also dressed compleatly in black

<Sajak> Who are you? What ... wait ... I know that voice.

<Sajak> Oh never mind that then.

<Graves> *brightens, very VERY happy to see them* "Why hello, kids!"

<Shingami> So who is this.. Insurgence group?

* Sajak regards Shingami, regaining quickly his composure.

* Sajak settles back into his chair.

<Sajak> Perhaps you would like to answer some of my questions. We could share information.

<Shingami> I ask something then you do hows that?

<``Mitch> "Evening, Dr. Graves. My name is Mark Walden, I'm with the Staten Times, a student newspaper. I'd like to talk to you about the incident involving the large-scale masser you have on campus?"

* Sajak nods. 'Fair enough.'

<Shingami> Who are the Insurgence?

* AriaStormsinger blinks and tries to not look confused

<Sajak> They are a particularly violent group of mutants. Their aims I do not know, as yet.

<Sajak> My turn?

<Graves> *clouds up a little, but remains cheery* "Now, now, you wouldn't be trying to vilify us, would you? Couple of bright good-looking youngsters like you..."

<Shingami> joy

<Shingami> yep

* AriaStormsinger shakes her head, wide-eyed.

<Sajak> How many mutants live in your apartment building?

<``Mitch> "Oh, no, sir. We have a strong scientific, uh, readership. We're just here to find out everything we can about the malfunction and the equipment in question."

* AriaStormsinger nods eagerly.

<Shingami> Umm... id say maybe 20... nto entiarly sure no one is always there and i seem to miss a lot..

<Sajak> I see.

<Sajak> I believe that brings up your turn.

<Shingami> Yep.. lets see ...do you ahve any idea on the location of either the insurgence or some of its members?

<Sajak> No.

<Graves> "Oh! Well, happy day!" He closes the door behind him and gestures eagerly for them to follow as he begins walking towards an elevator. "We've had so many reporters here who just want to hear about the DANGERS, the MENACE the masser presents - but any piece of laboratory equipment is dangerous if mishandled! A simple bunsen burner could flash and cause a catastrophic explosion - catastrophic for the scientist...

<Shingami> damn

<Sajak> Heh.

<``Mitch> ...unlucky enough to be bent over it at the time, anyway! Ha, ha!"

<Sajak> I know the feeling.

* Sajak pauses to think a moment.

<Sajak> Why did you invade my office the way you did?

* AriaStormsinger laughs

<Graves> *smacks the down button* "It's such a pleasure to meet some enterprising youngsters like yourselves who want to FEEL the truth, who NEED the truth! Am I right? Of course I'm right!"

<Shingami> Im looking for answers the same as you. Only different methods

* Sajak nods.

* AriaStormsinger stares as the elevator doors open

<Sajak> Your turn.

<AriaStormsinger> <vqw> "Mitch?"

<Graves> "Do you realize the masser has been in operation for over TWELVE YEARS without a mishap? Twelve years! That's AMAZING!"

<``Mitch> Quietly. "What?"

<AriaStormsinger> <vqw> "What's that?" points at the elevator, alarmed as Dr. Graves goes in

* Lisa Feildings... 36...widowed...blond hair pulled into a clip behind her head.. (she looks liek Jodie Foster BTW). She walks quietly out to her car at night and throws her briefcase in the back, disgusted. Shawn was once human...which means he obviously thinks and feels like a human.....but this is her job)

<Shingami> my turn.. what do you know about us?

<``Mitch> Whispered. "Just follow, trust me - my name's Mark! Mark Walden."

<Sajak> What do I know about who?

<AriaStormsinger> <vqw> Mark. Mark.

* AriaStormsinger stands very close to Mitch.

* ``Mitch steps in, settling against the back and nodding as Graves gestures wildly and animatedly

<Shingami> the people who live in my building

<Sajak> I see.

<Sajak> Well ... I know that strange events are often reported around your building, which is what originally drew my attention.

<Graves> "Ahh, young love, what a wonderful thing it is! You two MUST be together! Am I right? I'm right! It's such a good feeling to know that two young people such as yourselves can have enough in common to share the precious and wonderful thing that life is!"

* ``Mitch *blinks*

* AriaStormsinger 's eyes get wider and she takes one of MItch's hands.

<Shingami> so what do you know now

<``Mitch> "Uh-" .oO(WORK with it.) "-right. We're very lucky."

* ``Mitch squeezes Aria's hand and smiles down at her.

<AriaStormsinger> <reassured> Um. What exactly's a masser?

<Sajak> I know that you are endowed with remarkable powers.

<Sajak> I know some of the faces of residents of the building.

<Graves> "Ah, I see your friend must be the scientific mind! You no doubt are the literary type, the artist, weaving tapestries of language from sentences and words, while he dissects them for every possible meaning! It works on so! Many! Levels! Yeah!"

* Lisa drives out of the gravel parking lot of TGRI..Technoglobal Research Industries. How is she supposed to capture him all by herself...she does have the interns. But they're a bunch of twits....*

<Shingami> true true youve met us anyway

<Graves> "An excellent question, young lady, an excellent question!" He then launches into a rapid fast-talk about electrons and quarks and dark matter and focusing properties and refraction and space-time continuum.

<Sajak> I believe it is my turn now.

<Shingami> i believe your turn

* Sajak nods.

<AriaStormsinger> But how does it take into account the disruption factor of quasar theory?

<Sajak> How willing are you to cooperate with me, to bring to justice the perpetrators of crimes?

* ``Mitch *blinks* again

* Mondo_Gecko slips though his window

<Shingami> I go laces cops cant, i knwo more abotu this city and its darker side the most... i will be willing to cooperate but only under a few circumstances

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( that's better...if I do that once or twice a day I'll get by ok...)

* Sajak nods, listening.

* Graves SHRIEKS in delight like a prom queen, and parries with a rapid-fire account of bombarding nucleii with negatively-charged radioactive particles in order to simulate the rapid decay of the universe.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(atleast I'm safe in the asylum for now)

* Mondo_Gecko pulls his long hair from the ponytail and shakes it out, heading downstairs

<Shingami> You leave the people in my building alone. no one knows im workign with you or that i even bother to cooperate. and we avoide any messy fees and what not im not intrested in cash for my services just to get the job done and no one knows the better

* AriaStormsinger challenges with the velocity of Antiprotons and the angular conservation of momentum.

* Graves leads them into a chamber, not very wide but rather long, where a squat ugly piece of equipment sits on one end, a heavy steel shield on the other

* AriaStormsinger ooooooohs.

* Sajak scowls thoughtfully.

<Sajak> I think there is more I need to know about you before I can agree to all of that.

* Graves ripostes with the fact that not all physical laws are immutable, and lunges with the concept that inertia like any form of energy can be converted into a similar form without necessarily bleeding any of the inertia itself away.

<Shingami> if i tell you you have to promice to tell no other human

* AriaStormsinger excitedly holds up one hand and generates a ball of blue light.

<Sajak> Again ... I must know more before I make such promises.

* Graves just about pisses his pants in his excitement, and lunges for the controls at the near end before straightening up and sighing, sobering a LOT.

* ``Mitch hisses "Put it away!"

* AriaStormsinger looks up startled, then shoves her hand quickly under her jacket.

* ``Taurus walks out of his room and towards the roof

<Shingami> I am a woman of my word Sajak... if i say i wil tell you then i will.I run I hide but i Never lie

* Graves shakes his head, almost in bafflement, and glances back... the tiniest of shrugs. "...of course, I can't show you. They've shut it down. They say it's too DANGEROUS... pandering to the parents."

<Graves> "But here it is - the masser."

* Sajak nods.

<``Mitch> "I thought lasers were... y'know... laser-shaped?"

<Sajak> And I am a man of the law.

* AriaStormsinger walks around the machine slowly, tracing it with her fingers

* Lisa stops at the scene of the crime this morning.. looking for any clues to where Shawn's gone..or about him*

* Graves hitches his hip up on the squat box closest to the range, rapping on it with his knuckles. "Hah! Keep things simple, m'boy. This is all you need, right here. The ruby lens, the isotope chamber, the masser. All this other equipment is simply a fusebox to handle the 7.42 gigajoules of energy it takes to fire the thing."

* She sighs, finding nothing and drives down to the police station, deciding to speak to the police officer who investigated the case*

* ``Mitch pokes around the "fusebox" a little, a worried expression on his face.

<Shingami> Fine then it seems this game is over then what do you want to know about little ol' me

<Sajak> I want to know what your collection of mutants is about.

* AriaStormsinger starts talking about alternative energy sources

<AriaStormsinger> Like, biomagnetic quark interphasers.

* Sajak speaks the word 'mutants' flatly, matter of fact, with no inflection in the word what so ever.

<Shingami> it is as simple as any other place of safe haven. Mutants if you ahvent notest are in danger of being wiped out of exsistance and are subject to human hatred aswell as the hatred of thier own kind. The Asylum as we call it is a palce for mutants to attempt to live a real life. though it seems we have many an enemy and peace for our species is not an option. but we try

* Graves, even without Aria's happy-joy zap, starts feeling the buzz again. "Biomags don't work - the polarity's all wrong. And we need a steady oscillation on the phase to maintain a solid energy stream. But I've been looking into obtaining some of the experimental fissionable deutronium from the state facility..." He continues chattering on, saying things that make sense in the context.

<Sajak> Peace is a difficult thing to come by for all.

<Sajak> Mutants are no different in that than any others.

* ``Mitch eyes the equipment pensively, lost in his own thoughts as Aria and Graves knock skulls.

<Sajak> Those who are no different from others still face the threat of crime by others because of poverty, greed, revenge ... a million reasons.

<Sajak> Or for no reason.

<Shingami> we suffer the saem ratial hatred as that of any other people, like in the 1960's and before then when whites hated blacks. But in our case it is al lof humanity aganst up. we number a few thousand maybe more im nto sure any more. You humans number in the billions

<``Mitch> .oO(Oh, hell. This is a problem. I don't know a damn thing. I don't know any of this stuff. I'm... I'm twenty years behind on engineering, electronics, mechanics... all I've ever learned is what I needed to. This is a problem. I'm going to have to learn.)

<``Mitch> He blinks, suddenly. .oO(I'm going to have to learn...)

* Sajak nods.

<Shingami> True. as al lpeopel should have the right to justice. but there are so many unwilling to accept us because we seem s drasticaly different.

* ``Mitch quietly digs his wallet out, and thumbs through it quickly. .oO(Yeah, okay. This can happen. We've got a plan here.)

* Sajak nods.

<Shingami> I have been aroudn isnce the beginign of mutant kind and before then. i have seen it many a time and will again for as long as i live

<Sajak> Anyways ... let's not get too far off track.

<Graves> "...the behavior of planetary objects around antimatter nodes is startlingly similar on the atomic level to that of ionized noble gases..." Or something.

<Sajak> What I need from you is what ever you know that can help me.

<Sajak> I need to know who is who among mutants.

<Sajak> Who has what powers, who has what axe to grind ...

* Shingami nods*

<Shingami> anythign else?

<Sajak> I think that would be a great start.

<Shingami> Of the peopl in my building?

* Sajak nods.

* Aria and Graves go back and forth until Mitch distracts them. Could take days.

* ``Mitch coughs. "SO, Dr. Graves... what are the current plans for the masser?"

* AriaStormsinger blinks mid-sentence, starts up again, then pauses and watches Mitch.

* Sajak crosses one leg across his lap.

<Sajak> Why don't we start with your full name, Shin?

<Graves> "-and it's as if the quarks were just BEGGING to jump onto the- oh. Well, it's been disabled. We've totally removed all connections from the power grid." He chuckles. "We're supposed to be moving it somewhere else, but why bother? It's useless without a massive power source, and it's not going anywhere anyway."

* Lisa is directed down the hall to Sajak's office and then stops, overhearing the conversation*

<Graves> "It'll probably sit here gathering dust while the administrators hem and haw and seal it closed with red tape. Years."

* The door to Sajak's office is closed.*

* AriaStormsinger looks disappointed.

* Lisa knocks*

* Shingami pauses...

<Sajak> Why don't we start with your full name, Shin?

* Lisa scowls*

<Shingami> you have a visitor...*undoes the silence and lock spell adn goes invisable jus tintime for the knock*

* Sajak gets up and opens the door, peering outside.

<``Mitch> "Is there anything you'd like to tell our readers?"

<Lisa> Hello..

* ``Taurus lights a cigarette on the roof

<Sajak> Hello.

<Lisa> my name is Lisa Feilding..may I come in?

* she's wearing a white lab coat*

<Sajak> Certainly. Come right in.

* Sajak stands aside, gesturing for her to come in.

* Lisa smiles and comes in, taking a seat*

* Sajak sits at his desk. 'What can I do for you?'

<Lisa> ..thankyou....

* Shingami sits in the window sill

<Lisa> ..well I think I'll cut right to the chase.. I came to you because of what happened this morning

* Sajak nods.

<Lisa> I work for TGRI ...I don't know if your familer with us...

<Lisa> ..we test and research things..ussualy for the government...

<Sajak> No.

<Graves> "Certainly." He clears his throat, as Mitch looks attentive. "'Science is a tool like any other. A craftsman turns on his tablesaw, knowing the danger inherent in placing his hand by the blade; an electrician plies his craft, knowing just how little electricity it takes to stop the heart from beating..." He goes on like this for some length.

* Sajak nods. 'Alright.'

<Lisa> a few years ago..we were doing a project for the government.. Researching mutants..their DNA. How mutation took place....one of the things we had to do was a study of radiation as a possible cause of mutation...and attempt to well..create a mutant

* Sajak nods.

<Graves> "...and if we all work together, if we all have a little UNDERSTANDING, we can bring about a new age of enlightenment! A new age of prosperity and peace and unlimited power and unlimited freedoms! An utopian age where the human race can stop surviving and start LIVING! All we need..." He sighs dramatically. "...is faith."

<AriaStormsinger> Faith?

<Graves> "Faith!" His chest puffs up. "In SCIENCE!"

<Lisa> ..unfortunatly after a test on one of the many rats we collected...we discoved the chemical didn't work..

* Sajak raises an eyebrow. .oO(This is cutting?)

<Lisa> .. we were forced to..dispose of the chemical. '

* Sajak nods.

<Lisa> however as the city was growing a recent housing project that was being built unearthed the canistered of the chemical..

<AriaStormsinger> Doctor...that's beautiful.

* Sajak rolls his eyes.

<Lisa> ...there was a disaperence of a young man known by the name of Shawn Murphy..

<Lisa> ...the case on him was closed...as a suicide..but after interviewing several young men we unearthed something....Shawn didn't die...

<Lisa> ..I'm not sure if you remember the murder of Mitch Hollings?

<``Mitch> "Well, thank you for your time, Dr. Graves..."

<Lisa> he was found shredded last fall..

* Sajak nods.

<Graves> "SCIENCE! That thing that lights up the night, that brightens our darkest hours! That brings men together and makes brothers of enemies! The thing that separates us from the beasts, from the rocks and the trees! SCIENCE!"

<Lisa> ...Mitch's friends told me that they tied him to the back of their car and drove him around on a gravel pit in a building site and then tried to drownd him in a slough

<Lisa> .oO(amazing how many guys I had to sleep with to get that out of them)

* AriaStormsinger comes over to Graves and gently takes his arm. "It's okay."

<Lisa> ......I have reason to beleive that the mutant lizard on the lamp post this morning is Shawn Murphy...

* Shingami listens both through telepathy and otherwise

<Lisa> ...we have an order by the government to do whatever is nessesary to return him to the labratory

<Sajak> You do.

<Lisa> ..we do

<Sajak> What reason do you have to believe this?

<Shingami> (she does??!?!?)

<Graves> "Yea, that very thing that makes us unto gods! The creator gave us our minds, and with that is a RESPONSIBILITY, a sacred DUTY to understand! To-" He starts at Aria's touch, and looks down. "...oh... I... sorry, young lady. I get, ha ha, a little carried away at times."

<Lisa> ...Shawn had a pet lizard..

<Lisa> His friend Candy Fine told me that he carried it everywhere with him

* Sajak nods.

<Sajak> And this lizard was seen with the mutant that was on the post?

<AriaStormsinger> It's all right. You know, you're not alone in this.

<AriaStormsinger> Lotsa people would like to hear more from you.

<Lisa> ..and the lizards cage was empty when the suicide note was found.. and so was Shawn's room..cleaned out

* Sajak nods.

* Lisa frowns* no....the lizard on teh post WAS Shawn Murphy!

<``Mitch> "Well, that's what your paper is for! Am I right?"

<Sajak> I see ...

* ``Mitch winces a little, but says nothing.

<Sajak> So ... you think the two blended into one when Shawn was ... mutated? Is this correct?

<Lisa> ..were not sure...that's why we want to find him

* Sajak nods.

<Sajak> I will see what I can do. Can I contact you if i find something?

<Lisa> ..he dresses in clothes that apperenlty belonged to Shawn...we think that his DNA was affected by the mutagen..making him a hybrid of sorts

<Lisa> half man half lizard.....yes...please *takes out her card and hands it over to him*

* Sajak takes the card and puts it in a pocket.

<``Mitch> Again. "Thank you for your time, Dr. Graves... we'll be in touch."

* AriaStormsinger nods

* Lisa smiles and gets up: let me know as soon as you hear anything

* Sajak nods. 'I will.'

<Graves> "Certainly. Let me show you out..."

* Sajak stands up and opens the door, standing aside for Lisa.

* Lisa turns and heads out* .oO(it's a long shot)

* AriaStormsinger follows quietly and happily, the blue glow now pulsing softly

<Sajak> .oO(Sheesh ... I'd think she was a mutant herself ...)

* Sajak goes back to his desk and sits down, shaking his head.

<Graves> In the elevator, still talking. "I certainly hope you'll be able to explain to your readers that, yes, it may be dangerous, but-" And Aria gets her buzz on! "-but hey, so's life! And if we're to live, we have to understand, am I right? I'm right! So some dangers must be taken! It was a once-in-a-lifetime accident anyway!"

<Graves> "And think of all the things we'll be able to LEARN! We've already discovered so much!" And he trails off into technobabble again.

* AriaStormsinger hums quietly.

* Sajak picks up the file on the lizard on the lamp post and starts reading, now that Lisa has gone.

* Graves chatters cheerfully on his own, frequently filling in both sides of the conversation.

* Shingami casts silence on the door again and becoems visable

<Shingami> you should leave Shawn alonw

<Sajak> Really?

<Shingami> i have a feelign he prefers to be dead. and i dotn believe that lisa woman's credability

* Sajak nods.

* Graves finally gets them out the door, and stands there waving, hopping up and down and shouting polysyllables from the outer reaches of galactic knowledge as they depart.

<Sajak> My feeling is that whatever she wants with him it will be terribly unpleasant to him.

<``Mitch> "He was... interesting."

<Shingami> That is very true.

<Sajak> I also have a feeling you know exactly where Shawn is.

* AriaStormsinger claws back to the keyboard...

<Shingami> I may be the incarnation of Death itself.. but death is not without mercy

* Sajak hmms ...

<AriaStormsinger> He's smashing. Brilliant. Amazing. Why are you Mark?

* ``Mitch heads for the bookstore

<Sajak> The incarnation of death comes to my office looking for answers ...

* Sajak shakes his head.

<``Mitch> "It came to me - Stacie knew I'd be coming here... so she might've placed a quick phone call warning people to watch out for some guy named Mitch asking questions. So Mark asked questions instead."

<Shingami> Hey evin I have problems gettign information

* AriaStormsinger nods.

* A couple of screaming frat boys go running by waving pillowcases

<``Mitch> "Where did you learn all that from?"

* AriaStormsinger ducks behind Mitch

<AriaStormsinger> <q>Learn what from?

* ``Mitch glances as the boys go by, but makes no comment. .oO(When in rome...)

<Shingami> You asked my full name.. Its Shinigami Yuy.. shinigami translates to God of Death. i am aproximatly 523 years old.. since i have no CLUE when my brithday was

<``Mitch> "All that, that science stuff..."

<Sajak> I believe we were discussing what you know of the residents of your apartment building?

* ``Mitch holds the door to the bookstore open, following inside and looking around

* Sajak nods.

<AriaStormsinger> Television. And the books at the Asylum.

<AriaStormsinger> And --

* AriaStormsinger looks around. "Ooooooooooooh."

<``Mitch> Warningly. "You need money."

* AriaStormsinger smiles.

<Shingami> the things about shawn are true. but his becoming a mutant was an accident of being beaten within an inch of his life

* ``Mitch starts picking up textbooks - intro and advanced physics, engineering, electronics, mechanics...

* Sajak nods.

* AriaStormsinger gets lost in the History section

<Shingami> So the government techinacly has no claims on him for ebign an expirament

* Sajak nods.

* ``Mitch hesitates, then ladles on the How Things Work set, wincing at the price

<Shingami> as for the suaside note thats what he had planed on doing.. killign hisemlf.. but he came to us instead

* Sajak nods again.

<Shingami> she got most of her infromation for lying on her back .. and various other positions if you catch my meaning

<Sajak> I do, I do.

* Torres watches the buildings scroll by as he and three men hum down the east side highway

* ``Mitch starts lugging things to the counter, two or three books at a time

<Sajak> .oO(Boy, am I glad she wasn't reading MY thoughts while that hotty was in here ...)

<``Mitch> "Aria?" he calls out, returning for more.

<Shingami> I decided that would be an even worse invasion of privacy Sajak

* Sajak blushes deeply and turns away.

* Shingami chuckles

* Sajak covers his mouth to cough.

<Shingami> sorry its an ability i cant turn off

<Sajak> Well ... um ... I see ...

* ``Mitch finally goes after her as his purchases are ringing up... he prowls around until stumbling across her. "Aria?"

* One of the men has an open laptop tracking several signals, including one in the NYU area

* AriaStormsinger sighs. "Mm?"

<Sajak> Perhaps you could tell me about some of the other residents.

* Sajak turns back to face Shingami, his face having regained its normal color.

<``Mitch> "Um. Time to go?"

* AriaStormsinger sighs again.

<AriaStormsinger> I wish there was a place we could go where we didn't have to pay.

<Shingami> Well there is the smurf...the guy you apprehended earlier... the Akidna humanioid borg .. thingy

* AriaStormsinger puts the book away.

<``Mitch> "What, the library?"

<Shingami> hes a totaly pervert

* Sajak nods.

* ``Taurus sits on the edge of the roof

* AriaStormsinger stares at the bag Mitch is carrying. "That looks heavy."

* ``Mitch isn't carrying it - is carrying it now, never mind

<Shingami> he aso has a violent tendincies but then again were talking potentialy a multiverse jumper or from the future or those Australians are up to some fuuunkey shiznit

<Sajak> What?

* Sajak blinks in confusion.

<``Mitch> He grunts, shifting it over one shoulder. "Yeah... well... my wallet's light enough to balance it out."

<Shingami> You knwo the theroy of alternatue universes?

<Shingami> Liek Sliders

<Sajak> Ok.

* Sajak nods.

<Shingami> thats onetheory i have about him. or hes from the future

<Sajak> Who?

<Shingami> the thing SWAT has under custody.

<Sajak> Ah. *nods*

* Mondo_Gecko goes poking around the asylum for someone to play with

<``Mitch> .oO(Okay, schmuck. She wants the books. You probably wouldn't have pulled this off without her. Gin.)

* HappyLittleMoron comes down the stairs from putting the kids to bed

<``Mitch> "Aria, would you like something?"

<``Mitch> He gestures with his chin towards the shelves.

* AriaStormsinger 's eyes widen

* AriaStormsinger runs for a 3" thick textbook on Western Civilization

* Sajak rubs his temples.

<Sajak> Perhaps we could continue this later.

<``Mitch> .oO(Oy.)

* Shingami reaches over muttering something to help ease Sajak's pain

* ``Mitch just kind of winces at this, but holds out his other arm, hefting it dubiously and carrying it to the counter... he lets it down with a heavy thump, and digs out his wallet again

* Sajak sighs, relaxing a bit.

<Shingami> that happen often?

<Sajak> Yes. When I am tired.

* ``Mitch glances over at the paperback section... he blinks, reaches out, turns a book over... shrugs, and adds it as well

<Sajak> .oO(Not so sure I like death messing with my head ...)

<Shingami> you over work yoruself... i do it too though my oniichan bitches me out a ton

* AriaStormsinger stands by Mitch. "I wish I could send you fuzzies in thanks"

<Sajak> I think I should get some sleep.

<Shingami> you know where to contact me. or ill sjtu coem in tomorow

* Sajak nods. 'That would be good.'

<``Mitch> "Nandemo..." He hefts the bag again, and staggers slightly before catching his balance. "...dai."

* Klork pushes the door open, dragging himself inside and up the stairs

* Sajak gets up from his seat, donning his jacket.

<Shingami> soo ka. Ill coem in earlier i promise.. oh and i wasnt here... you wouldnt happen to knwo where a file on Faith maxwell would be would you?

* HappyLittleMoron blinks a little and looks up* ...that don't look good...

<Sajak> Maybe.

<Sajak> We can take a look together tomorrow.

<Shingami> its important to a friend of mine...

<Sajak> What is it?

<``Mitch> "Come on, let's get back before I bust something."

* Klork comes back down in sweats and a t-shirt, stubbing his foot on the wall to the kitchen, cursing under his breath, and then fumbling around in the kitchen

* Shingami heads for the window

<Shingami> well have a good evening. dotn want to be too late gettign home to your woman eh?

* Sajak yawns.

* Mondo_Gecko looks up

* Sajak nods and smiles.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...you ok Klorkers?

* ``Mitch horses the load out the door and starts heading back to the subway

<Sajak> Have a good night, Shinigami.

* Sajak opens his door and walks out.

<Shingami> You too...

* Sajak closes his door and locks it.

* Shingami walsk though the window gone invisable... walks back and takes the note book

<Shingami> he wotn miss this for a night

* Shingami just teleports to soemwhere close to the asylum

* AriaStormsinger walks along with Mitch...

* AriaStormsinger suddenly freezes. Turns...slowly...

<Klork> huh? *looks up at Mondo, as if just catching his comment* Yeah .. sure..what'd you say?

<Mondo_Gecko> ..

* Jaerlani changes the channel from the Discovery Channel to Walt Disney TV.

* ``Mitch glances back, and hesitates, following Aria's line of sight.

<Mondo_Gecko> just asking if your ok

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch... I mean Mark.... Do you hear that??

<``Mitch> "I think I'm Mitch again. Hear what?"

* Klork furrows his brow, rubbing at his temples..then nods* Yeah .. just a cold..

<AriaStormsinger> This way...

* HappyLittleMoron hehs a little, having followed 'em...* How's some chicken soup sound..?

* AriaStormsinger heads up the street toward a reallllllllllllllllllly beautiful cathedral

* Klork purrs .. then winces, rubbing his throat

<``Mitch> Grumbled. "-jesus christ in a frickin' sidecar this is heavy-" He lugs the books after her, stumbling slightly on his sore leg.

<Klork> Sounds good 'nuff .. god..never thought It'd ever hurt to purr

* OikawaNishimaru stands on the roof, wrapped in a black cloak staring up at the stars

* AriaStormsinger waits for Mitch outside the door. The sound of a choir floats out to the street like the voices of heaven...

* HappyLittleMoron rubs his shoulder gently as she goes about making the soup* Aw hon...have a seat...how long you been feeling like this?

* Shingami comes back in the asylum.. thanking whatever godsa re out there her bro isnt home

* ``Mitch 's never been to heaven, and it sounds like cats in heat to his uncouth senses

* Klork sits, propping his head up on his hand

<Klork> Since last night ... one of my co-workers has a nasty flu bug .. I mighta caught it ..

<AriaStormsinger> That's the most beautiful thing I've ever heard.

* Shingami jogs up stairs putting the note book under her pillow.. and checks to see if her trace spell is working...

<Shingami> sweet it is.. man i should stop beign a thief and be a P.I.

* HappyLittleMoron goes about makin' the soup...serves it up, along with some tea...

* ``Mitch grunts, and lets his load down on the steps. "Want to go in and check it out? I guess it's open to all."

* Jaerlani flips from the Disney channel to the home shopping network. As she watches, a smirk slowly appears on her face.

<Shingami> and away i go into the depths of the night to find.. Lisa..

* AriaStormsinger nods and oooooooopens the big heavy creaking door

* Shiva walks into the kitcehn, yawning a bit

* Jaerlani blinks and turns off the TV, shaking her head.

* Klork watches, looking like he'd fade in and out of consciousness

* Shingami heads to the kitchen for a tomato before heading out

* Jaerlani hurries out of the living room, muttering.

* HappyLittleMoron sits by Klork after serving him..

* Jaerlani enters the kitchen.

* Shiva nods to Shing "Hello."

<Shingami> Hi

<Mondo_Gecko> Hey Shiva :)

* Shingami grabs a tomato takign a bite out of it

<Mondo_Gecko> hey Shin..

<Shingami> Sup mondo?

* AriaStormsinger walks up the aisles, filled with awe as she stares at the columns and statues and hears the echoes and amazing music

* Klork sips, kissing her cheek cautiously before going back to the soup* {{Thanks Love..}}

* Shiva smiles and nods to Mondo "Hello."

<Mondo_Gecko> not much

* Mondo_Gecko sighs

<Mondo_Gecko> ...gotta go back into hiding

* Shingami gives klork a big hug

* ``Mitch lugs the bag in and shoves it against a beautifully carved Grecian column, leaning against it and rubbing his forehead

<Shingami> just let me handle it... i have a plan!

* Klork erhmmphhs, blinking and looking up

<HappyLittleMoron> {{No problem, sweetie...and don't worry abbout infecting me...healing factor and all...looks like it's the same with Brenna}}

* HappyLittleMoron blinks

<Klork> {{Good..}}

<Klork> Heya Shin..

* Jaerlani glances upwards and heads out the front door.

<Shingami> wow impopular tonight.. i cant stay long *chomp* im on a mission

<Mondo_Gecko> ..mission?

<Mondo_Gecko> what kind?

<Shingami> the secret kind

* AriaStormsinger listens for a lonnnnnnnng few minutes, moving a few pews closer, step at a time

* Jaerlani sits down on the front step, watching people go by.

<Mondo_Gecko> oh..

* Shingami winks, finishes her tamato

* Shiva listens, absently scritching the back of her head

* ``Mitch just glances up and watches her after a bit.

* Klork sips, brows arched

<``Mitch> .oO(Shit, put on some freakin' Zepplin already.)

* Mondo_Gecko sighs and then anounces loudly to no one "I'm bored"

* The choir director lowers his arms, smiles on his choir, then glances at the waif-like girl in the scarf at the base of the platform's stairs. "May I help you?"

<Shingami> I have a game cube in my room welcome to it

<Mondo_Gecko> .....

<AriaStormsinger> You sing like angels...

<Mondo_Gecko> be careful how you say that

* A couple of choristers, shuffling through their papers, glance over and smile

* Klork chuckles, rubbing blearily at his eyes before finishing the soup

<Shingami> ja mina. please dont tell wing im doing soemthign besides being a spy.. id aprcae it

* Choir director: Thank you.

<Mondo_Gecko> ....

* A scruffy looking man with old, worn clother comes up to Jaerlani with a cup in his hand. 'Hey sister, got a dime?'

<Mondo_Gecko> spy!?

<Mondo_Gecko> grins*

<Mondo_Gecko> ....can I be a spy too!?

* Jaerlani strokes her chin, thinking.

<Mondo_Gecko> this sounds like a fun game

* AriaStormsinger remembers what Mitch told her about being interesting all by herself.

<AriaStormsinger> Do you think I could sing too?

<Shingami> Mondo stay here its for your own good...

<Shingami> i dunno.. play with brenna or something...

<Jaerlani> No. Go away.

<HappyLittleMoron> Oh, honey...you should head to bed...

* Shingami fades from view...dor opens and closes

* Mondo_Gecko grumbles and thumps his tail against the ground like a great angry cat

* The man leans in closer. 'Got a nickel, then?'*

* Klork nods to Shin, getting up to put the bowl away

* Jaerlani puts her hands on her hips and says firmly, 'No.'

* Shiva patpats Mondo

* Klork shakes his head

* The man says, 'A penny?'*

<Klork> I'll be ok, promise ..

<HappyLittleMoron> Ok..

<Mondo_Gecko> I never get to do anything fun

<Mondo_Gecko> ..

<Jaerlani> Do I look ... like i carry pennies?

<Mondo_Gecko> I know whats fun!

* Shiva cocks her head to one side

<Mondo_Gecko> Shiva..you gotta try this new game I invented..

<Mondo_Gecko> Beer bowling

<Mondo_Gecko> ...to great tastes that go great together ;)

* Klork arches a brow

* Shingami pull sout a mirror from ber pocket

<Klork> Beer bowling ..?

* The man starts to turn away, then comes back. 'Got anythin' ta eat? I'm sooo hungry ...'*

<Shingami> Show me where lisa is

* Jaerlani growls.

<Mondo_Gecko> take beer bottles and use them as bowling pins and every time you don't knock one down you gotta drink it!

* Klork arches a brow before coughing off to the side

* Choir director raises an eyebrow. "Are you a member of the church?"

<HappyLittleMoron> ....

<Mondo_Gecko> ...anyone up for some drunken messy fun?

<Shiva> "sounds interesting."

* Klork slowly shakes his head

* Jaerlani gets up and walks around the side of the building, the man following her, walking hunched over and with a shuffling gait.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...could result in an orgy

<Mondo_Gecko> a drunken orgy at that

<HappyLittleMoron> ...thanks...no...

<Klork> Eesh..I would but .. I don't drink .. annnd I'm sick.

<Klork> Don't need the added effects..

* Mondo_Gecko pouts

* Jaerlani goes into an alley a short ways away, searches around a little, and stomps on something.

* Shiva laughs a bit

* Jaerlani reaches down and tosses a dead rat at the man. It bounces off his chest. 'There now. Go away.'

* AriaStormsinger shakes her head slowly. "Church?"

* A bald man wearing a robe and white collar in a pew a few rows back stands up. "Child, come here."

* The man blinks and looks down at the rat, then back at Jaerlani. Noticing a smear on his coat, he says, 'Hey! You got rat guts on my coat!'

* Shingami sighs pocketing her mirror

<Shingami> {{aria-chan where are you?}}

* Lisa has gone back to the lamp post, looking down the street*

* AriaStormsinger doesn't hear Shin, still blocked by that fuzziness in her head.

* The man says, 'Do you know what this coat is? My dead wife gave me this coat for Christmas five years ago, before she got cancer and died!'*

* Klork stands, going over to the couch to curl up

* Jaerlani glares up at the night sky.

* HappyLittleMoron starts a fire up...

* Shiva pokes her head into the fridge, rooting around

* Shingami sighs.. and looks for a church to do a little preying in

<Man> *'If I weren't a God fearin' man, I'd wring yer scrawny little neck!'*

<Jaerlani> Yes that could be quite fatal.

<Shingami> how logn has it ben?....4 yers. since i did that?

* 'You bet it could!' he says. 'Why I oughta ...' he shakes his fist at Jaerlani. 'I think you should get me a new one!'*

<Shingami> time does fly doesnt it...

<Jaerlani> I could always skin the rat and make one. *smirks*

* Klork smiles, watching HLM

<Klork> Thanks, love..

* Shiva pulls out a plate of sushi with some fried chicken, she has a drumstick haging outta her mouth as she heads to the table, nodding to th eothers

* AriaStormsinger turns and follows the priest dude, who's leading her to a room off the main sanctuary. The choir starts up again.

* The man looks down at the rat. After a moment, he reaches down and picks it up.*

* HappyLittleMoron smiles gently, sitting by him and draping a blanket over him, kissing his cheek gently* Anything for you..

* Mondo_Gecko grins

<Mondo_Gecko> ..sushi!

<Mondo_Gecko> ...mmmm..chicken

* HappyLittleMoron blinks

<Mondo_Gecko> ..can I get some?

<HappyLittleMoron> ...huh...?

* The man says, 'An' you kin keep yer stupid rat!' At that, he throws it at Jaerlani, who raises her arm in its way, blocking it from her face. A bit of rat blood splashes on her face.*

<``Mitch> .oO(Okay, so you've known too many priests to like this. But hell, she can buzz him if she needs to...)

* Jaerlani's eyes narrow as she lowers her arm.*

<Jaerlani> Old man ... I will give you to the count of ten.

* The door to the church opens.

* Klork purrs, smiling

* Shiva lauughs as she eats

<Jaerlani> I suggest you get moving in the direction of your choice at a run.

<Klork> Thanks...*slowly drifts*

* HappyLittleMoron smiles gently and nods..

* Three Brazilian men walk in, two wearing jackets and one in a black suit.

* ``Mitch glances over, not really paying attention.

<Jaerlani> One. Two. *The old man starts to shuffle off down the street away from Jaerlani.*

<Jaerlani> Three. Four. Five.

* Jaerlani turns to face the old man as he shuffles away.

* The three men spread out around the church, one of the jackets glancing at Mitch as he passes by.

* Jaerlani looks around the sidewalk, observing several people walking this way or that.

* Priest: What is your name, my dear?

<Jaerlani> Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. *The old man shuffles as fast as he can.*

<AriaStormsinger> Aria. Where are we going?

* Jaerlani casts a spell and whispers, 'Ten.' The sound occurs inches from the man's ear.

* Shiva looks to Modno "So waz up?"

<Mondo_Gecko> hehe..are you black now?

* Jaerlani says, 'Run as you like, you cannot escape.' Her voice is still inches from his ear.

<Mondo_Gecko> wazzup?

* ``Mitch walks forward quietly, not even casual - just unassuming - heading towards the front where Aria went

* The man in the suit takes a seat not far from Mitch, leaning back and watching the choir calmly.

* Shiva shrugs "Working on my slang."

<Priest> A place we can talk without disturbing the choir. Have you ever been to church before?

<Mondo_Gecko> hehe..

<Mondo_Gecko> Don't bother...it's not you

<AriaStormsinger> No, I don't think so. It's very peaceful.

* The old man cries out in fear, almost falling down. Jaerlani grins and says, 'My wrath will follow you forever ... haunting your dreams ...'*

* Mondo_Gecko sneaks a peice of chicken

* Jaerlani watches as the man turns around and around, looking for the source of Jaerlani's voice.

* HappyLittleMoron dozes with Klork, just 'cause she can <G>

* Shiva smiles at Mondo "How are you feeling tonight?"

* Klork purrs painfully, curled close

* Jaerlani says, 'Run little man. Run! I am still with you. Run, if you can!' Her voice seems to come from just behind him, no matter which way he turns.*

<Mondo_Gecko> umm..

<Mondo_Gecko> hell...I dunno.

<Mondo_Gecko> did you see the news yet?

* One of the jacket men waves to the other, who crosses the church between pews and joins him near the door where the priest and Aria went.

* HappyLittleMoron wraps her wings around them both...just conked 'n stuff...

* The man trips on his own feet and falls into the street. A taxi cab comes to a screeching halt a few feet away from hitting him.*

* Jaerlani grins as she turns to walk in the opposite direction down the street.

* shiva shakes her head

<Mondo_Gecko> ..I got chased up a lamp pole today

* ``Mitch doesn't even hesitate, placing a hand on the back of the front pew and settling in, apparently getting a front-seat view of the choir

<Shiva> "I do not watch much TV, Red told me it rots your brain and I'd like mine intact." *Winks*

<Mondo_Gecko> and Merc threw me his gun and then the police thought I was gonna attack someone

<Mondo_Gecko> so now they're all looking for me

* Shiva raises an eyeridge

<Shiva> "What will you do now?"

<Priest> People come here to worship the Lord.

* Jaerlani notices three teenage girls headed her way in the opposite direction on the sidewalk.

* One of the jacket dudes ducks his head, listening, then opens the door.

<Mondo_Gecko> ..

<Mondo_Gecko> keep the hell outta sight

* Jaerlani contains her irritated reaction as the three approach.

<Mondo_Gecko> I gotta assume I lost my job

<AriaStormsinger> The Lord?

* Mondo_Gecko sighs

<Mondo_Gecko> look like it's back to a life of crime

* Priest cocks his head as the Brazilian man enters.

<Priest> May I help you?

<``Mitch> .oO(This is bad. This is very bad. I'll have to snatch-and-grab a gat, they're professional enforcers and it's not my best move. Bodyshield the iceman and make for the door.)

<Jacket> <thick accent> Thank you, father. I was looking for Aria, here.

* AriaStormsinger BLINKS at the man.

* Shiva nods

* Jaerlani passes to her right of the three giggling girls and continues on.

* Shingami gets broed starts fipping all over eventualy near the palce thye messed up at NYU

<Shingami> definatly need to repent for that...

* Mondo_Gecko sighs heavily

* Jaerlani grins darkly.

* Jacket dude: "We've look for you all over, honey."

* Shingami taps a student on the shoulder

<Shingami> pardon me is there a church near here somewhere?

* Shiva hugs Mondo "At least you are here with friends."

<Shingami> Kid; yeah three bocks that way. why?

* Jaerlani remembers a place where she had some fun not long ago at about this time of night and alters her course for NYU.

<AriaStormsinger> I don't know you...

* Priest frowns.

<Shingami> someone should prey for those lost here.

* Mondo_Gecko smiles

<Mondo_Gecko> ..yea..

* Jacket guy: "I'm sorry, father. She not well, here," *taps side of head*

* AriaStormsinger shakes her head and starts for the door.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch!?

* Shiva smiles "And if nothing else you have me, my friend."

* ``Mitch glances at an imaginary watch, sighs, and stands, ambling towards the back

* Shingami thanks the kid and walks, no particular pase jsut looks like your average goth

<``Mitch> .oO(Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.)

<Mondo_Gecko> heh..I thought you were my friend

<Mondo_Gecko> :P

* Shiva cocks her head to the side and nods

* Jacket dude #2 lunges at the priest and knocks him across the head, dice say he falls back and clonks his head onthe desk and slumps to the floor.

* Jaerlani runs various plans of 'entertainment' through her head, remembering the auditorium, the police station, the dormitories ...

* AriaStormsinger runs right into the arms of Jacket dude #1, who forces her back into the room.

* Torres checks his watch, too.

<Mondo_Gecko> yea....I dunno what I'd do without another lizard around

<AriaStormsinger> *The choir director interrupts the choir, makes some comments and shuffles his papers. "Again!" the music begins...

* ``Mitch stumbles as he walks up the steps, against the man outside... mumbled, "I'm sorry-" and his hand flicks in, curls around the butt of a Glock 19c - he turns smoothly, hauling it from the shoulder holster, and jams it up against the side of the second man.

* Jaerlani draws near to the campus, keeping to the shadows where she can remain hidden.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch!

<``Mitch> Still quietly. "Back. Up. Brick."

* Shiva smiles and nods

<``Mitch> *prod*

* Shingami stands for a moment on the steps starign at the church

* Jacket dude #2 backs up, as Jacket dude #1 raises his gun and points it at Aria.

<``Mitch> .oO(-holy shit, I did it - mary mother of jesus, I fucking OWE you-)

* Jacket dude 1, hereafter known as JD1, growls at Mitch.

* Jaerlani passes Shingami as she stands in front of the church.

* ``Mitch reaches in with his free hand, and pulls out JD2's gun, cocking it... he is now officially akimbo, as it should be in a church setting

<``Mitch> "Aria. Get out."

* Shiva finishes and whipes her mouth, actingperfectly lady-like untilshe lets out a huge belch

<Shingami> *sighs* baka whatdo you expect to in there.. defiantly not what you saw before home went to smitherines.. no ones stupid enough to do a gun fight in a house of god

* AriaStormsinger runs for the door

* Mondo_Gecko LAUGHS!

* Torres stands up, brows raised at the sight of the girl.

* Shiva smiles "Pardon me."

* ``Mitch is slowly backing JD 1&2 up, one gun held on each, towards the rectory

* Shingami walks up the stairs puting he rhand on the knob

* Jaerlani turns her head to look at Shingami over her shoulder.

* Any folks with extrasensory powers may feel a slight curdling of darkness inside the church*

* ``Mitch doesn't feel anything, of course, other than a lot of fear and adrenalin

* AriaStormsinger hurries to a column about halfway up the side of the church and ducks behind it, watching the door to the room

* Shingami shrugs adn wlaks inthe main door

* Jaerlani scowls as she watches the girl enter the church.

* ``Mitch turns, keeping both guns trained, and backs up, walking backwards towards the choir and the front of the church

* Jaerlani follows the girl, curious.

* Shingami blinks at whats going on..

<Shingami> (not again........dead god nto again)

* Torres mutters something and the choir goes silent, frozen in mid-motion, all standing like wax museum models

<``Mitch> "Just be nice and nobody pisses god off."

* Jaerlani opens the door and carefully peers inside.

<Torres> "Did you say God?"

* AriaStormsinger turns and spots Torres (Jaerlani's hidden by the entrance foyer)

* ``Mitch glances at the frozen choir as they cross his peripheral vision, blinks - then half-turns and looks over his shoulder as Torres's voice echoes throughout the cathedral

* AriaStormsinger cringes back

<Shingami> *loudly* Dont you guys know gunfights ar suppsoed to be at high noon in the streets not in the house fo god!

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(funny that when you want someting it's always what you can't have and what you can have is what you don't want..even if you wanted that thing five minutes ago)

* Jaerlani slips into the church, keeping to the shadows.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(it doesn't matter once you get it....that's why people keep buying things)

* Jaerlani is not quite hidden by the darkness.

* Torres doesn't turn, but bows his head darkly. A blackness rises up around him and Aria 20 yards away, and no one can see through it

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(to fill the hole.....everyone wants what they cant have to fill the hole)

* Shiva looks at Mondo "So you can't go outside for a while?"

<``Mitch> "Shit. Shin, I'm blocking two heavies. Take Aria and Iceman."

* AriaStormsinger screams.

<Mondo_Gecko> ...well I can bit I can't walk about like I used to for a bit

* Jaerlani moves further into the church, failing to hide in the shadows.

* Shingami growels wings openign up entire body sorunded by a blue glow

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(I don't even think I want to see how big the hole in me is)

<``Mitch> To JD 1&2. "That's right. Just take it easy."

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(a casum)

* JD2 dives behind the cover of a nearby statue of a saint

* Jaerlani crouches behind the pews.

* Shingami walks forward

* ``Mitch blinks and fires instinctively, but gets only plaster

* Jaerlani ducks her head down.

* The dark cloud seems very solid

* JD1 (thickly) Oh gringo you SO dead

* Shiva nods a bit

* Shingami taps aria

<Shingami> theres a portal behind the last pue.. take it.. get home fast ok neechan?

* ``Mitch 's lips tighten and he lowers the gun on JD1... centers it on one kneecap... .oO(sweet jesus I don't want to do this you have to do) *BLAM*

* JD1 goes down screaming in agony

* Jaerlani stands and tosses a spell at the darkness, summoning a cloud of knock-out gas.

* Shingami starts ..praying looking for a weak spot in the wall thingy

* JD2 has a cell phone out, dialing

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(so...when it comes down to it...what do I really want?)

<Shiva> "So...what is there to do around here?"

* The blackness begins to curl like thunderclouds

* The gas cloud smells incredibly bad.*

<Mondo_Gecko> ..not a whole hell of a lot but be safe

<Mondo_Gecko> unfortuatly

* ``Mitch edges around the podium, curling his field of fire around the pillar towards JD2's position

<Mondo_Gecko> I'd rather risk my life and have fun than live in saftey

<AriaStormsinger> *but it (the gas) can't get past Torres' cloud wall spell...

* JD2 speaks rapidly in Spanish into the phone

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(love? family? friends?)

<``Mitch> Voice raised, "No sea estúpido, amigo! Usted no puede batir encima de un punto negro!"

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(money? power? sex?)

* Shingami continues to prey and castign kind fo a claric's spell... the bottom edges of her wings turning form a briliant black.. to the oposite side of the b/w spectrum

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( freedom.....)

* JD2 ducks. "Torres! Aqui! Rapido!"

* Jaerlani readies herself to cast.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(but freedom will never be mine... )

* ``Mitch opens fire, and he's not good enough to snapshot a phone so he goes for the kill-

* JD2's hit but not dead -- he goes down bloodily, smearing the wall, glaring at Mitch, fighting to keep his screams back

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( gotta get myself so skyhigh and fucked that I can't remember what I lost....that's a possibility..)

* Shiva nods and sighs, then smiles "We could go for a breif walk."

<Mondo_Gecko> ..heh...can't walk down there hun..

<Mondo_Gecko> gotta walk up high

* The cloud recoils at Shingami's attack, and the area it's surrounding becomes much smaller

* ``Mitch kicks the phone away from JD2's hand, and crouches, picking it up with one hand while keeping the gun on him with the other... "Quienquiera esto está, estancia fuera de ella. Usted no tiene ninguna idea de la cual usted se esté ocupando."

* The cloud, by the way, is taking on a slightly blue cast

* Shiva nods "On the roof tops?"

* Shingami continues the claric's spell

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(then there's always the building things up option....but everytime I do I loose it all again...so that mean I'm still fucked over)

* Jaerlani moves quietly, trying unsuccessfully to sneak to between JD2 and where she thinks the others on the opposing side are.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( ..with a face only a mother could love..and were not even sure of THAT yet.. I'm never gonna live a normal life...time to face it..)

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(that's it.....that's what you've been running from, isn't it Shawn?)

* AriaStormsinger screams again, weaker

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO( ...you can't accept the lizard...your still tryinjg to be human)

* The cell phone stays on, but there's no sound from the other side.

<``Mitch> "Le han advertido.

<Mondo_Gecko> .oO(but you'll never BE human...)

* A flash lightens the church from above, near the center of the sanctuary

* ``Mitch snaps the phone off, smashes it against a pillar, and lopes around it, gun in each hand, taking in the situation

* Shingami puts both hands on the thing increasign the affected area

* Shiva puts her hand on his forearm "Are you okay?"

* Jaerlani recoils from the flash momentarily.

* Mondo_Gecko looks up

<Mondo_Gecko> ...yea

<Mondo_Gecko> ...come on..

* The cloud fades away, and no one's inside it!

<Mondo_Gecko> lets get out of here...I wanna show you something

* Mondo_Gecko gets up

<Shingami> where are they?

* Jaerlani narrows her eyes and casts a spell to see the invisible.

* Shingami checks for anyone else.. including the priest

* ``Mitch drops one gun and tears his glasses off, seeing into the mana spectrum...

* Shiva nods, pulling on her jacket

* No invisible Aria or Torres appears. But Jaerlani feels a pulling....and then a voice in her head.

* There's definitely been some magic going on there...

* Shingami serches for the fear of death

* voice: {{Jaerlani. How long will you dally with these mortals?}}

* Mondo_Gecko takes Shiva up to his room and pulls on his black cloak again, looking like a walking shadow

* Jaerlani smirks to herself.

<Mondo_Gecko> we gotta go out the window..

* Shin, you feel a lot of fear from above you

<Mondo_Gecko> your a good jumper right?

* Shingami looks up..

<Jaerlani> .oO(Keep talking ...)

* There's a balcony above...

* Shiva nods "Iguanas aretree dwellers."

* Mondo_Gecko nods and points to the roof of the next building

* ``Mitch flicks on his glasses and crouches, picking up the second pistol... shouted, "Where the hell are they?!"

<Mondo_Gecko> ..can you jump up there?

<AriaStormsinger> {{This world needs order. A leader to carry them out of chaos. Someone who knows the truth of what it means to live life like it matters.}}

* Shingami takes to the air, wings going nwo fom black though the grasy till the ends are a briliant white

<Mondo_Gecko> ...it's easy..

<Mondo_Gecko> well..for me.

<Jaerlani> .oO(Tell me more.)

* Shin rises like a dark angel into the view of Torres, leaning over Aria like a vampire, his hands and arms tinged slightly blue as power flows up them from her.

<``Mitch> .oO(Can't believe I-) .oO(Panic later. Work it out now.)

* Mondo_Gecko pounces and takes of, gripping the edge of the next building and pulls himself up

<Shingami> Stop !!

<Voice> {{We seek your allegiance.}}

* Shiva smiles and nods, taking a running leap and jumping out of the window

* Shiva fallows

* Jaerlani turns at the sound of the voice and scales the wall by magic, moving quickly in the direction of the sound.

<AriaStormsinger> Torres flicks his hair back and holds up one hand.

<Mondo_Gecko> ..no one else can get up here but us..

<Torres> Dark one, you seek her death.

* his voice resonates through teh church

* Mondo_Gecko takes of, leaping from building to building, leading her back to the church he was at the morning..with the very high steeple

<AriaStormsinger> {{For your powers go unacknowledged in this callow world}}

* ``Mitch 's head snaps up, and he whirls, bolting for the stairs... which is unfortunately halfway across the church

* Jaerlani climbs up onto the balcony and stalks towards the three, her red eyes aglow.

<Shingami> I seek her companion ship. She is my sister by soul you cannot have her*voice earily quiet tu echos though out the cathedrel* and what right do you ahve.. doing this in the house of the father?

* Shiva fallows

<Torres> By soul? How...captivating.

<Shingami> Why do you seek her?

<Voice> {{What have you to offer?}}

<Jaerlani> .oO(What do you have in mind?)

* Mondo_Gecko leads her over several rooftops and then jumps onto teh side of the church, climbing to the belltower

<AriaStormsinger> Torres smiles at Shin, lips parting over clean, straight white teeth.

* ``Mitch skids to the back, and slams open the door, ascending the spiral staircase...

* Shiva fallows him, losing her footing once but quickly fallowing him

* Jaerlani shifts her vision to infrared, scanning Torres for heat.

* Mondo_Gecko looks back once he gets to the belltower

<AriaStormsinger> Torres holds up his blue-glowing hand, then raises it to his mouth and sucks it briefly

<Shingami> Your a parasite

<Torres> No. I am the host.

* ``Mitch hesitates, then hauls up and around, both guns aimed at Torres as he rises up onto the balcony

<Voice> {{Yes, Jaerlani. You see our true form.}}

<Shingami> Explain

* ``Mitch lowers his head, staring at them over his glasses

* Shiva fallows him in "Why arewe here?"

* Mondo_Gecko smiles a bit

<``Mitch> .oO(God, I wish I had a trenchcoat.)

<Jaerlani> .oO(What do you want of me?)

<Mondo_Gecko> ...cause it's nice up here...

<Mondo_Gecko> look

* Mitch sees a simple black aura, wreathed with red that spirals around him

* Mondo_Gecko points out to the city glittering below them

<``Mitch> "Sus muchachos ASPIRAN."

<Voice> {{At the moment? To simply watch, and learn.}}

* Shiva nods, looking then drawing in a breath as she looks in awe at the city

* Torres chuckles.* No. I do. *raises a hand to Mitch and his own aura starts getting pullllllllllllllled from his body

* ``Mitch HAS no aura

<Mondo_Gecko> ....out of all the mutants at the asylum..there are very few who could get up this high

* really!? bizaaaaaaaare

<Mondo_Gecko> ..other than those who fly

* Shiva nods

* Torres frowns.

* Torres casts a firebolt at Mitch.

* Shiva smiles "Thank you for showing this to me Mondo."

<``Mitch> "No argument. Stand away from the happy chick."

<Mondo_Gecko> ..call me Shawn

* ``Mitch dives away from it, down below the row of seats

* Shiva smiles "Okay, Shawn."

* Torres faces Shingami. "Now, little one. I wonder what will happen if I take HER soul..."

* Torres holds up Aria's limp form

* Jaerlani watches quietly as Mitch dives from the bolt.

<Shingami> Liek i said your a parasite...

* Mondo_Gecko leans out over the balcony as a spring breeze washes over his face

<Torres> "and look for YOUR spirit in the bargain?"

* ``Mitch rises, a scorch mark seared across his side and back - his jacket is crackling, he is on FIRE, but he's raising the gun-

<Shingami> Soul sucking letch leave her alone

* Torres smiles.

<Shingami> I....

<``Mitch> *BLAM*

* Torres LEAPS into the air and tackles Shingami

* Shiva looksover the balcony with him "All the people look like ants."

* Jaerlani stands back, watching.

* Aria collapses to the balcony floor

* Jaerlani looks Aria over, looking for heat signs.

* Shingami naturaly goes plumiting towards the gorund.. but manages with a whoel hell of a lto of luck.. to stay aloft

<Mondo_Gecko> yea..

<Mondo_Gecko> that's why I don't think God has anything to do with people

<Mondo_Gecko> ....because he's WAY more high up than this..

<Mondo_Gecko> and people don't care about ants..

* Torres reaches up and casts some writhing energy bolts around SHingami

* Shiva nods

<Jaerlani> .oO(Hmm ...)

<Mondo_Gecko> So...he probably sees us as ants..and churches too..

* ``Mitch drops the guns and writhes out of his jacket, gasping and sweating and trying not to move his side too much

* Shingami creates a shield...blakcnes sin ehr wings faded more and more

<Mondo_Gecko> and ...we understand god like ants understand us

* Shingami casts holy smite on Torres

<Mondo_Gecko> but I always liked churches...

<Mondo_Gecko> they're pretty

* Shiva nodnods "This is pretty. I usually do not care for buildings but I like this one."

* Torres reels, then straightens, shows a toothy grin as he heals up and launches himself at Shingami

* ``Mitch hurls it to one side, and drags up the guns, stuffing them in his pants, butts jutting symmetrically... he stumbles towards Aria, climbing over the seats, and checks her pulse, both aura and blood

* Jaerlani observes the battle, very, very carefully.

* Shingami dife sfr him, btu moves so the edge of her wing grazes him, tis covered in razor sharp feathers makign its edge a big blade

* AriaStormsinger reaches weakly for Mitch

* Mondo_Gecko nods

* ``Mitch crouches over her, picking her up wordlessly, and limping towards the stairs

<Shiva> "So Mondo...what was it like to be a human?"

* Mondo_Gecko looks at the people below and then up to the moon

* Black blood pours from Torres' body, staining and smoking on the cool stone floor

<Mondo_Gecko> ....easy

<Mondo_Gecko> I had people all around me...but no body loved me

* ``Mitch moves down the spiral staircase, leaning against the railing at all times

* Shin gets whacked with a major double bolt of black energy that seeks to disrupt her aura

* Shingami turns throwing silver daggers at Torres

* It's a powerful one, and she might recognize some of ARia's gifts in it

<Mondo_Gecko> and I could move through the crowds and not be noticed

* Shiva cocks her head to the side "That must have been hard. But surely someone loved you."

* Shiva nods

* Jaerlani casts a spell, doubling the speed she moves at.

<Mondo_Gecko> my mom did...

<Mondo_Gecko> but ...well..

* Jaerlani grins as she finishes the spell.

* Shingami clutches ot the side of a wall grasping for breath

<Mondo_Gecko> Candy said she did....

<Mondo_Gecko> but she took one look at me like this..and decided it wasn't worth it

* Jaerlani charges at Torres as he is distracted by Shingami, slashing viciously at double speed with two swords.

* Torres hovers, plucks the twin blades from his body, stained with the strange blood, aims that Shin's heaving form, and TOSSES them at her

* Shiva nods "Then Candy doesn't know what's worth what."

* Mondo_Gecko smiles a little

<Mondo_Gecko> ...no..she doesn't

<Mondo_Gecko> ...she's pretty shallow...got tits and ass to boot though

<Mondo_Gecko> ..then again I was pretty shallow too

* Shiva nods

* Shingami curses gettign saught in the shoulder by one in the shoulder holding back a scream

* ``Mitch 's lower hands, freed, reach down... one hauls out a pistol, the other... wraps itself in the grabhandles of the bookbag, dragging it as he shuffles towards the church doors with Aria in his upper arms

* Jaerlani casts a spell to fly.

<``Mitch> .oO(...fucking... six... hundred... dollars...)

* Then ... Jaerlani flies into the fray, slashing viciously with her two swords at double speed.*

* AriaStormsinger cries a little, trying to cast a healing spell

<Mondo_Gecko> *w* I know what I was running from

* Shingami leaps up again to attack Torres

<Voice> {{I like your spunk.}}

<Shiva> "What?"

* The bleeding Torres raises his hands and a powerful shield is cast around him

<Jaerlani> .oO(*mutter* That's not encouraging.)

* ``Mitch starts down the steps, the stained glass tableau far above him frantically glinting and shimmering as huge washes of energy shine through

* Shingami bounces off of it liek a bird on a window

* Another round of muttering and his wounds slowly close before Jaerlani and Shingami's eyes

<Torres> Care to parley, children?

* Torres begins to laugh, enjoyingthe resonance of his voice from the cold walls

* Jaerlani ceases her attack, ever wary.

<Mondo_Gecko> ....the lizard

* ``Mitch jams the gun back in his waistband, and... flags down a taxi

<Torres> Where will you run when you have licked your wounsd?

* Shiva raises an eyeridge "What lizard?"

* The driver of TOrres' car shouts: "Yo!" as Mitch and ARia emerge

* a set of silver crossbow bolts with smite caste don them fly up towards Torres*

<Mondo_Gecko> .....the lizard in me

* One lodges in the energy shield, two more bounce off and a fourth makes it through, stinging Torres' shoulder

* ``Mitch slides Aria into the back seat, and hauls himself into the taxi, dragging the bag in after him... "Lose him!"

* Shiva cocks her head to one side

* Driver pulls out a rifle and fires on teh taxi

* A couple of bullet holes hit the side, but the tires stay intact

<Mondo_Gecko> ...when you've been one thing all your life it's hard to become another..

* person hidden in shadow of a pillar then casts a drainign spell on the shield*

* ``Mitch leans out the window as the taxi screeches off - and believe me, it will when gunshots start firing - and blasts away with both pistols

<Mondo_Gecko> and I'm still thinking like a human

* Jaerlani pulls darts coated with a sticky green paralyzing poison and throws it at Torres.

<Mondo_Gecko> ..but I got away today....when I jumped I realized that ..no human in that situation would have lived to tell the tale

* Shingami looks up dazed at the other guy

<Shingami> damn you...

* Shiva nods

<Wing>.. i KNEW youd get in trouble tonight oneechan...ive been tailing you all evening

* TORRES rolls like a fish in a river

* Shingami sweatdrops

* AriaStormsinger drops to the floor and goes AFTER whoever's behind that pillar

* Torres yanks out the silver bolt in his shoulder and slams it at Wing if he reaches Wing in time

<Wing> go check on the priest...

* Jaerlani casts a stoneskin spell on herself and goes after Torres again.

<Shiva> "But youare okay aren't you Mondo?"

* The taxi driver and Mitch are two for two, with some bullet fire in both their vehicles and the driver not gaining on the taxi

* Mondo_Gecko watches the moon.

<Mondo_Gecko> yea, I'm ok.

<Mondo_Gecko> I escaped and came up here and hid

* ``Mitch hauls himself back in, staring at the slides, full back and chambers empty... "Damn it!"

<Voice> {{Not learning much are you?}}

<Jaerlani> .oO(No, but I'm having fun.)

* Torres vanishes in a flash of light

<``Mitch> "Take us through Central Park! THROUGH! They can't follow over rough ground!"

* Shiva nods and whews a bit

* Cabbie: You crazy!?!?

* Cabbie is headed for the nearest police station

<``Mitch> "Yes, and I have had a fucking BAD DAY! Do it or they kill us!"

* Driver yanks his Lexus in front of the taxi

* Driver slams on his brakes

<Mondo_Gecko> ...I gotta start over..

<Mondo_Gecko> that's the thinb

* Torres will appear behind Shin

* Jaerlani looks around for any sign of Wing or Shingami.

<Mondo_Gecko> ..it's not just about loosing...my life...my friends..my job and my girls and my band..........

<Mondo_Gecko> it's about loosing me

<``Mitch> "Come ON! MOVE! GO! THERE! THAT WAY! AWAY FROM THE PEOPLE WITH BIG GUNS!"

<Mondo_Gecko> since this happened to me last fall I've never felt like one person..

<Voice> {{Jaerlaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaniiiiiiiiiiii}}

<Mondo_Gecko> I've felt like Shawn and the lizard

<Jaerlani> .oO(Yes?)

* Jaerlani looks around.

<Mondo_Gecko> I have to find out how to make them one person

<Shiva> "Two different people?"

<Voice> {{Wanna play??}}

<Jaerlani> .oO(Gimme a sec.)

<Mondo_Gecko> yea

<Mondo_Gecko> you understand?

* A hail of crumbling stone flies from the now collapsing balcony at Jaerlani

* Shiva nods "Sometimes late at night I can feel my instincts as well as my 'master' in my head."

* Jaerlani dodges, flying.

<``Mitch> "Look-" He scrabbles out his wallet and yanks out the contents - about four hundred dollars by now. "Yours! Central Park! Just DO it!"

<Voice> {{You could do soooooo much better.}}

* Jaerlani smirks.

* Jaer gets hit by a big chunk right in teh middle of the back

* The Lexus jerks to the side, then RAMS the taxi, which veers onto the sidewalk

* Jaerlani 'Oof's and sways in the air.

* Cabbie grabs the cash.

<Shin> goes t check on the priest*

* Cabbie gets a Fierce Grin.

* Cabbie steps on the gas.

* Shiva looks to Mondo "I wish I could help you Shawn but I am still learning how to 'fit in' soto speak."

* Torres appears right behind Shin and grabs her in a headlock

* Jaerlani casts a spell and her form becomes blurry and indistinct, her position difficult to determine.

<Torres> Where you gonna go when you lick your wounds, eh??

<Shin> *grabs his arms trying to her loose*

<Torres> Back to that little Asylum of yours??

* Mondo_Gecko smiles

<Mondo_Gecko> ...yea..I know.

* Torres tightens his grip, placing a hand over Shin's face and beginning to draw on her powers

<Mondo_Gecko> that's why I'm telling you

* Shiva smiles and nods

* Torres' eyes light up.

<Jaerlani> Give it to him, Shin.

<Torres> GOOD little soul sister!!!

<Jaerlani> Let him have it!

<Voice> {{So much potential in you!}}

<Shin>*trying to breath right... as he drains he find this.. cold mind numbing cold and pain like hell fire at the same time..a spark starts to faid...*

* Taxi grabs air, slamming through the gate... it skids around a fountain, between two trees, and roars off through bushes and over the uneven ground, shake-rattle-'n'-rolling

<Wing> *empties the 8 bolts he has in his hand into Torres now with holy smite on them

* Torres struggles to hold consciousness as the owner of the voice draws on the power

* `Wing` empties the 8 bolts he has in his hand into Torres now with holy smite on them

* The bolts bounce off, clattering to the floor around Torres and Wing's sister

<Torres> Gaaa-aaaaaaah

<Mondo_Gecko> so..what's it liek for you..the instincts?

<Voice> <suddenly fierce> {{FOOL! He is weak. You walk with power. Will you claim it for your own!?}}

* `Wing` opens her mouth and begins a siren's song calling out for help

<Voice> {{Choose now!}}

<Shin> usign siren's song to either weaken torres or call for help

<Shiva> "To find something to feed on. To hunt and kill. Ifind myself sometimes sleep-stalking someone from therafters late at night."

* Lexus follows, some oily smoke issuing from the undercarriage as some stones scrape it up nastily, skidding on two wheels as it tries to cover the same ground with a larger turning radius... it's losing ground, but still gamely trying to keep up

* Torres' grip is much weaker now...but Shin would be too...

* Jaerlani smirks lightly.

* Mondo_Gecko nods

<Mondo_Gecko> ...what kinda thing do you wanna eat?

<Jaerlani> Shin, you're killing him.

<Jaerlani> And he's pissed.

* Torres staggers back, dropping Shin to the floor, the green shield about his body flickering

* Shiva shrugs "Meat. Fresh and still warm if you get my meaning."

* Torres stands for a moment, coughing.

<Voice> {{Perceptive...}}

* Jaerlani smirks at Torres.

<Shin> *turns to him singing the song of death wich drains energies from ppl*

<Voice> {{You play the game well.}}

* Taxi fishtails around a tree, and accelerates at - THROUGH the iron fence, the windshield starring as the fence buckles and writhes like a broken snake... it screeches around, against traffic, then with traffic as it makes the far lane, horns blaring and drivers screaming

* Torres' eyes go black and smoky.

* Jaerlani makes no response to the thoughts Torres projects.

* AriaStormsinger cries out in fear

* Shin's spell is suddenly reversed...

<Shin> *such little eserves blindly keeps singing..*

* The green energy field begins to hum, then grow. Torres goes very pale.

<`Wing`> Oneechan Yamatte!!

* the Lexus roars out of the park like an avenging angel, trailing smoke and tree branches and exhaust fumes, crashes to the pavement, accelerates briefly and is then totally obliterated by a Greyhound

<Voice> {{Watch your back.}}

<Jaerlani> .oO(As a drow ...)

<``Mitch> "YES!" Mitch punches the ceiling, knowing he'll feel guilty later about the deaths he probably just caused but here and now tasting sweet, sweet victory.

<AriaStormsinger> Mitch...the others?

* Mondo_Gecko nods

<``Mitch> "Aria! You're- are you all right?"

<Mondo_Gecko> for some reason I crave ..sugar

<Mondo_Gecko> heh..

* Draconigeno Shiva chuckles a bit

* Jaerlani stands looking on Torres or where he was, lost in thought.

* The green shield grows and spreads, like crackling energy, towards Shin, Wing and Jaer

<Mondo_Gecko> ..

<`Wing`> Shin*rendered KOed by her brother*

* Jaerlani snaps out of it and moves back.

* It reaches the body of the guy with the shot-up knee

<Mondo_Gecko> my instincts are alot worse than I let on though

Session Close: Fri Mar 08 22:50:57 2002

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