Old Haunts and Hunting Grounds
~UMBRA~
*Korn blasts from the stereo speakers as she leans over the
cluttered desk, balancing precariously on her fingertips as she
peers into the mirror....a pencil lightly outlining her
eye..after a few seconds she releases the pencil, letting it fall
to the cluttered mess on the desk while her other hand reaches
for the lipstick which she hastily applies.* THERE! *she steps
back from the mirror...the lipstick sliding into the purse at her
side..a smile on her lips as she observes the full effect of her
makeup and costume*Now I can go *a hand absently hits the stop
button on the stereo as she passes it on the way out of the
room..she walks by the pit a hand raising to the couch potatoes
in current residence* see ya folks..going shopping *A few moans
and groans greet her announcement, her shopping trips were
infamous...she reaches out...killing the light on the TV and
chuckles at the groans...she steps out the door just before a few
empty pop cans hit the wall near her..another chuckle leaving her
lips as they clunk dully..*
~STARDANCER~
*Looking out the window of the city bus. Heading towards the mall
as it were. She looks around at the other people near her. Making
sure to keep her hands to herself and shirking away from anyone
who sits too close. It`d been a while since she`d gone anywhere
public other than to work and school. This was all still so new
to her. though she`d more than figured out how to handle her
newly found power. Her mind in a tumult, though she`d done a few
things lately she wasn`t so proud of, things she can`t even begin
to explain or tell anyone about. Like absorbing someone for
instance, that`d been one of the more horrific moments of her
life. Knowing everything the person knew and felt through thier
entire life. But, the guy had tried to rape her after all, he`d
just not been ready for what happened when he touched her.
Pulling her arms about her a bit. The bus pulls up to the curb
near the mall. She exits with everyone else, looking up at the
sun for a moment. Then walking towards the entrance to the mall.
Figuring on buying some swimwear for her surfing and diving
habits.*
~VEIL~
~She frowned down at the chocolate stain that dribbled down the
front of her clean blouse. She really hated concession stand
work, hated fast food, and especially hated annoying customers
that took out their daily grievances on the people that couldn`t
fight back. Her eyes narrowed, though she plastered a smile on
her lips, fighting the urge to throttle the young, spiked hair
boy on the other side of the counter. Her fingers idly toyed with
the sash around her waist, feeling it hardened into diamond
sharpness along the edges. She could ...it would be so easy
...but ..she sighed, feeling the fabric return to it`s normal,
soft state as she passed the vanilla shake back across the
counter to him with a *Have a nice day and come back to Boxy
Burgers again ...*She turned from the counter, slamming the cash
register drawer shut with a resounding whump, turning to watch
the people walking by, the shoppers and browsers* I hate this job
*she muttered to no one in particular. But ..it paid the rent on
the efficiency apartment, put a roof over her head and food in
her mouth ...until she could move on ..always move on ..never
stay in one place too long*
~METTALIC~
*once again Micheal can be found in the garage, a rag in his hand
as he carefully polishes the chrome to high mirror like
shine....he hated being confined to base....made him feel like a
caged animal, but thats what happens when you end up botching an
easy catch and start calling your superior names... damnit...they
could have gotten the damn runners.....but Pole had to let the
one escape, he just stood back and watched ....there had to be a
reason, but not one that he could think of...especially at that
time......a sigh leaves his body as he stands up and steps back,
admiring his handy work...least there was something he could do
here he liked....they didn't even have a decent bar on base where
he could play...no that he would play here, but at least it would
be something......he leans forward wiping off a smudge then with
one last long look at the bike turns and heads for the door to go
back upstairs...after all even he can only spend so many hours on
the bike...and already he had spent four hiding down here....*
guess I should see what my next assignment is *he stops at a
terminal, and types in his code....he stares blankly at the
screen for a long moment then a huge grin breaks across his face
*YES! I'm outta here!!! *finally he had been taken off of
confinement* Guess my training with the rookies has paid
off...I'm free again *His face drops slightly as he reads the
rest of the assignment...it wasn't a solo like he normally
did...*I gotta work with the rookie again *he groans* ahh damn!!!
*He types something into the console, calling up Yohanns room*
~UMBRA~
The mall is only a few blocks away so she walks to it...even
though she had been told numerous times not to go....everyone
claimed it was a good hunting ground, and there was that little
incident over a year ago that nearly destroyed the place....but
she doesn't care...theres a damn good sidewalk sale going
on...and she'd rather face all of GUARD than miss it..*she pushes
open the mall doors and stands there for a brief moment inhaling
deeply* Ahhh the smell of bargains *Her eyes brighten as she
looks around then she picks a direction at random and starts
walking through stores, buying up anything that grabs her
attention for more than a second*
~VIRUS~
*he was awake this time... awake and alert..... when he answered
the call to his room, he wondered... what now.... there was
always /something/ to do... whether it was standard training, or
practicing his skills... though rarely was that done....*
~METTALIC~
Cool! your there...ya read your latest assignment? *He chuckles*
I'm free of this place, but I gotta take you on a standard
reconnaissance ....ya up for it?
~VIRUS~
*he shrugged lightly, somewhat bemused* I guess so. *in all
reality, he knew what he could do was useful... but useful for a
reconnaissance mission? Perhaps not.. at least, not until he
learnt to enter the tech...*
~METTALIC~
Awesome! Grab your gear and meet me at my bike, we' are hitting
the mall *he chuckles* it shouldn't be too bad..think we scared
most of the RUNners off after the big battle there
~STARDANCER~
*She walks through the malls upper level slowly. Watching all the
teenagers shopping around with wild abandon. Taking a seat at a
cafe and admiring all the young love around the place. Watching a
couple kiss for a while. She`d never met anyone that didn`t give
her some sort of grief in her line of work. So she`d no one to do
anything of the kind with. she notes a slightly dressed up girl
out of the corner of her eye, seeing how she goes from store to
store. She looks her way, taking a sip of her coffee and noticing
STARSHINE. Waving to her for a couple of seconds to see if she`d
notice her, and remember her. It`d been a while since they`d
talked on the street about all this weird stuff...*
~UMBRA~
*She steps out of the store her arms laden with bags and pauses
to look around, deciding her course of action and next strike
zone...she catches motion from the corner of her eye and glances
over....she smiles and heads over to the table* Illyanna! HI!
didn't think I'd see you again *S* you didn't call? how have
things been* She dumps the bags on a nearby chair and takes one
for herself* Have you seen the sales around this place? I just
got a totally awesome deal on some shirts over there, and there
is massive shoe sale downstairs....its like christmas I love it
~VEIL~
~Her shift finally reached an end and she slipped into the back
to change out of her soiled uniform, slipping into a pair of
jeans and a t-shirt that read "Ignore Authority"
emblazoned across the front. Shoving her feet into a pair of
boots, she slung her purse over her shoulder and stalked out of
the small deli, more than glad to make a break for it. Sales,
sales meant tons of people and irritable customers that she had
to deal with. But now ..now she had time to wander, to cool off.
She found an empty bench to settle on, easing back to observe the
crowd with a weary eye.* Too many people ...*she muttered darkly.
But it would be a couple of hours yet before her bus came by and
she didn`t feel like walking all the way back to her apartment,
she`d spent enough time on her feet as it was.* I hate sales ....
~VIRUS~
Very well.. *he gave a brief nod, and turned to gather his
gear... what little gear he had... and then moved quickly towards
where Metallic and his bike was, singing a song under his
breath.. he chuckled lightly* Well. Here I am.
~STARDANCER~
*She smiles as the girl approaches. Shaking her head when the
waiter asks her is she`d like her check, sending her long hair
bounding about her shoulders.* HI Star!*She says, holding her
arms open to greet the girl with a slight hug.* I was going to
call, I really was. But, some things happened that I had to kind
of sort through on my own. Though I think I’ve got a little
of this under control now.*That was an understatement, she knew
pretty much what she was capable of, and it didn’t sit well
with her at all. She stands up, the whole six foot of her, and
embraces the girl in a tender hug to greet her as she closes in
before sitting down in the chair once more.* No, I just arrived
on the bus myself. But, seeing as you’re shopping, I might
as well take the day and spend it with you, since I didn`t call
you or anything like that!*She looks her over slightly, smiling
even more.* Ooooo..! Yer lookin` hot girl! got a date you`re
meetin` here?
~UMBRA~
she reutrns the hug and grabs a seat* This has got to be the sale
of the year, there are like so many awesome deals out there *She
pauses as the waiter approaches her and orders a mocha
latte..only now that shes stopped talking about the sale does it
actually register on her what STARDANCER was saying* Oh you have?
thats awesome *she pauses once more and looks at you carefully*
you had any problems? You know if ya did ya coulda called me..I
might not be able to help, but there;'s lots who can, We all
sorta help each other, or try to to some extent...*She smiles at
the waiter as he delivers her coffee and turns back to
STARDANCER* no, no date *her gaze follows the waiter* but he
wouldn't be bad...so what about you? *she turns back to you* you
got anyone? hows work? You still dancing? *she continues rambling
on at a mile a minute, almost as if she is on a sugar high*
~VEIL~
*Eyes closed, she listened to the idle chatter of the people
around her, venturing a peek at two who sat near. She shuddered
as she heard one (Umbra) mentioned the sales. The woman actually
sounded ...happy ..about the bloody event. But then ..she hadn`t
been behind the counters. She couldn`t stop the snort that
escaped her, quickly snapping her eyes shut once more to avoid a
confrontation. She didn`t know anymore, who were the good guys
and who were the bad guys. Best to be wary of, and steer clear,
of the whole lot of humanity ..or non-humanity. She sighed
softly, realizing that it was a lonely existence ...but a safe
one.* C`mon ...bus ...take me on a magic carpet ride ...anytime
now....
~METTALIC~
*Hes leaning up against the bike, when VIRUS shows up* Hey! good
time *he straightens up and looks you over* Got your watch? what
about transpods? and check your com unit to see if its working?
*he tosses you a helmet* might sound geeky for a standard recon
but gotta follow procedure *...not that he ever does, but hes
gotta put up an example for the rookie...*
~VIRUS~
*and he nodded... he already /had/ checked his com unit, and he
never forgot what he was meant to take.. he had a good memory..
he caught the helmet and put it on* Geeky? Not at all... you can
never be too careful.. *he was talking more about in the field
/he/ was used to... but the principle should surely still
apply...*
~STARDANCER~
*She takes another sip of her coffee as the girl rambles about
every little question on her mind. Licking her full lips to get
the remnants of the coffee off her lips so it doesn’t drip
onto her clothing.* No... No men in my life. Easier without them
most of the time. and besides, in my line of work, you really
don`t want to take anyone home as a keeper from that sorta place.
The occasional flings nice, but those that`ve already seen you
naked only want what they`ve seen even more.*she shakes her head,
the last sentence stressed a little, it`d been a night after she
danced that the FREAK from the club had tried to force himself on
her. she`d never forget his face as he simply seemed to just melt
and dissolve right into her.* I had a problem, it`ll sorta stick
with me for a while. But i`ll get over it..*If she hadn`t had the
powers she does, who knows where she`d be right now. Maybe in a
body bag, or maybe beat to the point of unrecognizable and lying
in a hospital. Her greatest asset could definitely now be used as
her greatest weapon. Though she knew she had so many more. Her
words simply crying out to STARSHINE of hurting.. Though she
elaborates no father for the moment.*
~UMBRA~
She stops for a breath and takes a sip of coffee while listening
to you, her face turning slightly serious as you mention
problems..she leans forward slightly and lowers her voice* It
wasn't GUARD was it? *she hears the snort of dismay from VEIL and
looks briefly over at the obviously tired and frustrated girl,
vaguely wondering what her problem is then looks back at
STARDANCER* or was something else? what happened?
~VEIL~
*She was eavesdropping, blatantly listening in to the
conversation. Well, she was bored, had time to kill and nothing
to do but eavesdrop. She felt her muscles tense, ears straining.
No ...she hadn`t heard ...that word ..GUARD. Her eyes flew
open, settling into an almost frantic glare at UMBRA, her lips
unconsciously pulled back in a snarl of fear* GUARD ..*She hissed
through clenched teeth, leaping to her feet and backing away from
the two women. She bumped into a stray shopper, sending packages
sailing across the mall floor. Casting one more glance at the two
she spun, moving at a quick walk, dodging in and out among the
bodies that swarmed around her, each face holding the menace, the
threat that she had been running from. Were the GUARDs here?
Everyone ...anyone ..could be them. She had to get out of here
...now*
~METTALIC~
Good! *he climbs on the bike and waits for VIRUS to climb on
behind him* Now comes the boring part...need anything while we're
at the mall..shopping'll make a good cover...might as well get
stuff ya need
~STARDANCER~
She grows silent for a moment. Likewise looking over at VEIL to
see the girl snort. Then turning her attention back to UMBRA.*
No... I`ve not met any of them as far as I know. They didn`t try
to catch me if they did.*She plays with the small "O"
ring holder on her coffecup. Running one long finger through it,
then bringing it back out only to do it again. A few guys
watching her with slight interest, she doesn`t even seem to take
notice, having retreated into herself as much as a person
possibly could. Then leaning over the table to get closer to
UMBRA to whisper below the din of the crowd. Offering more than a
generous view down her lowcut shirting to a few people, though
she doesn`t think UMBRA would care, and even if she did. It
wouldn`t be the first time she`d turned a woman on. College was a
weird place....* I absorbed someone...*She says softly.* One
night, after I was done dancing, this guy was outback of the
club. I`ve never had a problem before so I told the bouncer I
didn`t need to be walked to my car. *She casts her eyes down
slightly, looking at the table.* He walked up nice to me at
first, wanting a light to his cigarette.... Then he got rough.
*She closes her eyes for a brief moment, pushing the thoughts
back into her mind.* He never got what he wanted. I lost control
of my power, and he just disolved into me..*She looks back at
UMBRA again.* But that`s not the worst part. The worst part is
the way I felt after taking him. It felt as though I was born
anew... She covers the side of her mouth so that no one else can
see.* Almost better than sex.... but in a different way.
~VIRUS~
*he chuckled lightly* Well nothing I /need/.... but is there a
good computer store? *anyone who had seen him when he was
relaxing, knew he liked to tinker with the computer he /did/
have...*
~UMBRA~
*She looks over at VEIL as the girl seems to panic...her own
thought running turmoil in her head as she watches the
girl..while listening to STARDANCER...she turns back to
STARDANCER her eyes going wide* Oh wow! that is like totally
totally mondo weird....Like how'd you do it? you think you could
do it again? *She stops for a second* so he's like totally gone?
gonzoed? *she glances back once more towards VEIL, her words
tossed almost carelessly to STARDANCER* what you think her
problem is?
~VEIL~
*She somehow made it to the ladies room, dousing her face with
cold water. Stop it, don`t panic, she could have said anything.
Then why, after all this time, did she hear the word
"GUARD" ...had she even heard it or was it a figment of
her shattered imagination. She raised her head, watching her
reflection in the mirror.* There is no way they could find you
here, no ...way. *She crumpled up the paper towels she`d used to
dry her face, drawing in a deep breath and heading back out into
the swarm of bodies. There was only one way to find out ...ask
them. Hesitantly she approached the two women, eyes darting for a
path of escape ...just in case ..* ..mmm ..Excuse me ...
~METTALIC~
Yeah, i guess they gotta pretty good store, dunno much about
computers *he fires up the bike and peels out of the parking
lot...then onto the highway where he weaves in amongst the
traffic like a madman.... after about twenty minutes he cuts off
a semi as he darts across three lanes of traffic and pulls into
the Mall parking lot...he stops just outside of the mall doors
and kicks down the stand*.....well we're here *just out of habit
he looks down at his watch, his eyes going wide as he silently
signals base for confirmation..he looks at VIRUS* tell me kid
what you read
~VIRUS~
*murmuring prayers in Dutch... he wasn`t particularly
religious... but then, he wasn`t usually riding with a madman....
and he murmured quietly to METALLIC* I`m not /precisely/ sure how
to read this...
~STARDACNER~
*She nods...He was totally gone. Well, not totally. she knew
everything that he knew. Felt everything that he`d felt in his
entire lifetime. From his first sexual experience, to his last
dying breath.* Well, sorta gone... I know everything he knew.
It`s sorta freaky.*She looks over to VIEL as the woman jumps up
and backs away from them. shaking her head to UMBRA.* I`ve no
idea what her problem is. Maybe she doesn`t like strippers. *She
grins and says slowly.* Or maybe she does and just thinks we`re
too hot for her.*Watching as the girl goes into the bathroom and
then comes back out a few moments later. Approaching the both of
them. She looks her over for a moment. Crossing one shapely thigh
over the other as she settles back in her chair. Nodding her head
and prompting the girl to speak.* Yes?
~UMBRA~
*she leans forward..her eyes widening even more* Everything? oh
wow man! that is like...like..like *she paused trying to come up
with something to say* that is just totally ....out there *she
shakes her head* strange *She glances over as VEIL approaches*
Yes?
~VEIL~
*She frowned at the UMBRA and STARDANCER, swallowing a few times
before she found her voice* You were talking ...and *she glanced
over her shoulder, once more checking a path to the exit before
facing the two again and simply blurting out* I thought I hear
you mention ...*at this her voice fell to a nervous whisper*
GUARDs *She edged a step back from the table, ready to flee at
the first threatening movement from either of them* Did you? Do
you ...know ...them?
~METTALIC~
*A sigh leaves Michael as he shakes his head and looks over at
VIRUS* you never attended that class did you? or didn't pay
attention...*he holds his watch so you can see it and presses one
of the buttons....the face instantly changing to resemble a radar
screen...visible are two stationary orange dots...and three
stationary green dot, one stationary blue dot, and one blue dot
moving towards the stationary ones...he almost drones as he
points to each dot* These orange ones...are us....see this green
one...that is an identified runner, the two blues are
unidentified runners...we have three runners here *He straightens
up and smiles* looks like your recon job became a full hunt
~VIRUS~
*he murmured* Oh lovely... *a technopath was good for a lot of
things... but was it good for capturing runners? Perhaps not..
perhaps not... Or perhaps the dutchy just didn`t see the way it
could be used....*
~STARDANCER~
*She nods slightly to UMBRAs assertion of the power. Though it
FELT strange to be able to do that to someone. then turns her
attention to the girl who`s come and interupted their little
discussion. She listens to the frightened girls questions. So
she`d been listening in on their conversation.* Eavesdropping is
rather rude you know.*She says simply.* I`ve never met any of
these GUARD.*Looking over to UMBRA to see if she recognizes this
girl. then back to VIEL. Squinting her eyes in a comical, yet
dangerous looking, gaze.* You one of `em?*Her voice filled with a
strong New York accent.*
~UMBRA~
*she cuts off the conversation as VEIL asks the question* GUARD?
*she tries to pretend she has no idea what was meant, but that
entire idea is blown as STARDANCER basically admits to knowing
what they are....a sigh leaves her and she cautiously glances at
VEIL...this is one she hadn't seen before...but she could be
GUARD, they could be anyone...she looks VEIL over, starting to
get an uneasy feeling* who are you?
~VEIL~
*She steps back again, her head shaking violently at Stardancer*
no ..I am not one ...*her eyes flickered from one to the other,
uncertain* I am not one of them ... *she whispered again, her
voice quavering slightly as she yet again glanced over her
shoulder before turning to cast a suspicious look at UMBRA* you
may be them ...*she nodded, licking dry lips with the tip of her
tongue* I cannot ...*she couldn`t give them her name. She should
probably be running for hell and high water even now, but then
...they could be ..like ...her. Maybe they were trying to escape them*
I should ...go .
~METTALIC~
*he looks you over briefly before reaching into his jacket and
pulling out a berretta* Here, Rookies aren't issued them, but you
might need it...*He pushes open the mall doors while
communicating with base...VIRUSes comm opens as well feeding him
the same information that METTALIC gets*"One RUNner
identidfied as UMBRA, Star Reed, power: light manipulation, known
weapons: lasers...other two : unknown...proceed for sight
identification* METTALIC activates the com to VIRUS* just be
causal until we're up there.. we have to move closer and pick
them from the crowd..and think of how you can use your powers
~VIRUS~
*he did move casually forward... and it did appear as though that
was something he had picked up fairly easily... his mind working
overtime... perhaps if there was tech around.. and certainly if
they wore tech...*
~STARDANCER~
*She makes a slightly worried look. Mouthing,"Oops".
figuring she screwed up somewhere in the conversation. Probably
by admitting that she knew what the guard was. She`d not make the
mistake again. Looking back to VEIL to listen for her answer to
UMBRAs question. Seeing the girls flighty and utterly horrified
eyes. She slowly pushes out a chair for her to sit in.* why don`t
you sit down for a moment honey?*Her voice soft.* If, from what
I`m hearing of them, we were GUARD. Then wouldn`t we be dressed
in spandex and be attacking you before you knew who we
were?*She`s not made any other move than to push the chair out
very slowly. The girl was even more freaked than she was about
the fact that she had powers. She`d not thought that possible.*
~UMBRA~
*she leans forward her gaze flickering from VEIL to
STARDANCER...no longer was she the flighty carefree shopaholic
that everyone knew...now she was all business...she had known
about her powers for years, and had known GUARD for almost as
long, ...ILLYANA was new to all of it and this other one, VEIL,
she had no idea what she knew, or how long she had been
involved...seemed like she might be the youngest, but she was
also the most experienced......she sighs and looks over at VEIL*
No, we are not GUARD, I am Star... a RUNner, and I'm guessing you
are too....*she's willing to reveal this information freely
because if this stranger was GUARD they already know it all, they
already had a file on her...she glances briefly at
STARDANCER..trying to silently convey the fact that she might as
well keep quiet on facts...limit what she revealed...but how much
of that ILLYANA would understand she didn't know...she looks back
at VEIL* and you are obviously freaked at the mention..so I'm
assuming you are one of us?
~VEIL~
*Her eyes flickered to Stardancer then to the chair being nudge
towards her, forcing her neck muscles to relax* They come out of
nowhere, with no warning *she began, then clamped her mouth shut,
watching the tall woman for a moment before glancing at Umbra
nodding slowly* Yes, I had ...my father had told me there were
others ...like me ..out ..here ...but I`ve only met one other
...and that was a long while back. *she frowned lightly, slowly
easing into the empty chair* I don`t know ...how they keep
finding me, but they are always there *She blinked at the two of
them for a moment* You do not seem to be ...worried about them
...
~METTALIC~
*They move further into the mall, Micheal occasionally glancing
at his watch to get a bearing...then finally they are on the same
level, and he signals base with the visual records... he walks
into a nearby record store, hoping that VIRUS will follow him,
then looks down once more at his watch, noting the change in
color of one blip just as the information comes through his comm*
"correction, one unknown RUNner, other is visually
identified as VEIL, Bree Starhawk Powers: molecular manipulation
of cloth"*Micheal looks at Virus to see if he had gotten the
information, then once more activates his comm to YOHANN* okay
kid, this is as far as your going...your still too wet to get
into this...you stick to recon only missions for a while..now you
have two choices...you can stay here and watch or I would
recommend that you find a bathroom and signal a ride
home...because you are not to get involved yet, if it was one,
I'd let you in..but the odds aren't that easy
~VIRUS~
*the rookie nods, briefly, and he slipped away, off to get a ride
home..*
~STARDANCER~
*She catches STARS look to her. Figuring out the jist of it. She
was an expert at body language after all. Nodding slightly to her
and once more mouthing the word,"Oops". She sits there.
Saying nothing. Raising her hands above her head and starting to
put her hair up into a slightly more manageable semblance of
organization. She was new to this, but she knew a few things
about fighting. And she`d have to face her first GUARD at some
point anyway. She laughs slightly at VIELs accountement of her
calm disposition.* Oh HONEY. I deal with slobbering men every
night on my job. I`d much rather fight some freak with powers,
than be without them and be defenseless before a crowd of my
worshippers.*She leans foreword slowly and grins.* Don`t mistake
worry for confidence. I`m peein` in my panties as much as you are
dear... But, i`ve got choices. Accept it. Or run from it, and
i`ve never run from anything given the choice. Let`em come I
say.*Of course, her views on life had changed slightly with the
absorption of the pig that tried to take something from her she
didn`t want to give.*
~UMBRA~
*she smiles in appreciation at STARDANCER...obviously she had
figured something out...She shakes her head and chuckles* they
scare the shit outta me too, *she shrugs* but I've been living
with it so long I take what comes...its useless to always look
over your shoulder....you'll just freak yourself out...I have
friends that won't step foot outside because they are terrified,
*she gestures to the mall around them* Hell 3/4 of them won't
dare step foot in here for anything *She nods towards VEIL* so
how long have you known?
~VEIL~
*She felt her lips quirk at Stardancer, admiring the woman`s
outspoken bravery, glancing at Umbra and speaking quietly* I`ve
known of them for 4 years now. They came for me when I was 16. My
father had managed to keep me hidden from them, but ...*she
frowned* They always managed to find us, and that time ...we were
too slow, we had ...relaxed. *she rubbed her temples keeping the
memories at bay for the moment. She was already on edge and she
didn`t need to break down here in the middle of a mall in front
of strangers.* I`m afraid I`m better at running than I am at
fighting. There is still so much I need to learn ...to
...control. *she glanced around the mall nodding* Some days it is
an effort to go out, but I have to eat *she offered a
self-conscious smile* It feels like everyone is one of them.
*She looked back at Umbra* you ..know how to deal with them? *Her
teeth worried her lower lip* Could you ...show me? I`m tired of
always running, but right now it`s all I know to do.
~METTALIC~
*His gaze follows the rookie till he's out of site then he
listens in on his comm unitl he hears that VIRUS is back at
base...he randomly grabs a CD and walks up to the counter to
purchase it then steps back out into the main mall, the bag
hanging loosely in his hand...as he moves closer to the girls he
recognizes one of them and a smile comes to his face...this will
be too easy..he circles around the table once from a distance as
if trying to get a better look then approaches the them almost
hesitantly* yanna?
~STARDANCER~
*She smiles to STAR, winking once and making a slight kissing
motion. Puckering her full lips up to the greatest effect she can
before blowing the unseen kiss. Looking around the mall and
finding it absurd that anyone wouldn`t want to come to the mall.
It`s got great stuff. Sexy underwear was her favorite. But then
again, she entertains alot. But they also have stuff for her
surfing and diving hobbies as well. Feeling her power burning
within as she always does. Holding back the strange sharp armour
she always feels calling to her. And still seemingly supercharged
from the man she`d absorbed the other night. She zips the front
of her already lowcut shirt down a little more, showing off the
centerpiece of her bra, not really careing who sees her. After
all, she`s used to being looked at.* `ow long have you been at
this Star?*Looking at UMBRA. Realizing that there have been some
who`ve done this far more than her. Listening intently to VEILs
account of her life. Glad that she`s never had to be on the run
like that. And too people orientated to go around considering
everyone as a possible suspect to be GUARD. Nodding in sympathy
to her. Only guessing at what happened to her parents.* I`m
sorry...*Not knowing what to call her. shaking her head slowly
and almost, almost, offering to let her stay in her apartment.
She does pretty well for herself at the dancing job, and she`s
pretty lonely. A roommate would do well. If they could handle
her......indiscretions.* *Hearing her name spoken. She smiles and
looks over to METALLIC.* Micheal! What on earth are you doing
here?
~UMBRA~
*She stretches and leans back now that everyone seems to have
relaxed somewhat she be more herself..she glances over at
STARDANCER* well I took off when I was like 15, thats when my
powers started and everything went weird on me *she shrugs* then
I lucked out and ran into a bunch of people that helped me...she
glances back at VEIL* It is hard, to control to figure out whats
going on...whos the enemy...*..shes willing to help VEIL but
she's not willing to introduce her to the lair, just like she
won't show ILYANA yet either..the lair is sacred and has too many
scared kids...besides strange things were happening and she
didn't want to drag anyone else in* Take some defense courses
*she looks at both of them* learn to shoot, and fight and think
fast *she shrugs* thats about all you...*she cuts her words off
as someone approches STARDANCER, obviously someone she knows*
~VEIL~
~She was listening to Umbra as if trying to memorize everything
the other woman was saying, casting the occasional glance to
Stardancer~ Self-defe ...*her voice trailed off as someone
approached, feeling her spine stiffen reflexively, halting the
rest of her sentence as she glanced up. Nervously she was
beginning to rise from her chair, it was a simply, instinctive
reaction on her part, so used to watching over her shoulder for
so long. She watched as Stardancer greeted the newcomer, though
she continued to watch warily~ Thank you *She said quietly,
resuming her feet* I should ...*her eyes flickered to the man*
...go now ..my bus will be here soon.
~METTALIC~
*He heard some sort of conversation as he was approaching and
could pretty much guess the topic by the way they suddenly cut
their conversation short, the one seeming extremely jumpy..he
smiles and nods briefly at VEIL and UMBRA then turns his
attention to STARDANCER* I was bored so thought I would do a
little hunting around, see what I could find...and I seem to have
found you *he crouches down so hes at their level* so what have
you been up to? *he listens as his comm spiels off facts on the
known runners and assumptions on IIYANNA* I couldn't find
you...what is your last name..I tried the phone book and it was
useless to me
~STARDANCER~
*Having been listening to STAR before MICHAEL arrived on the
scene. Her attention on him now. Remembering their meeting in NY.
She`d thought to never see him again. She`d already started
taking defense course, using some of the moves in her dance
routines had made her a rather big star at the clubs she works
for. Usually thier top biller and attracter after only a few
days. At the most a week. Hearing VEIL behind her starting to
move away. But keeping her eyes on Michael. Not removing them for
a second. He might get too close to her. And if he got to close
that might mean he would touch her. And she had to concentrate on
not absorbing people when they touch her. Watching closely as he
kneels down to come to her level. Her sultry eyes holding his
gaze. Quirking a brow to his explanation as he asks for her last
name. She`d not given it because she didn`t want it known.* My
last name wasn`t important, and still isn`t.*Instantly suspicious
of anyone who would consider hunting her down from NY. Be it a
boyfriend, which she didn`t have one, or a friend.*
~UMBRA~
*She watches the interaction between ILLYANNA and METALLIC, she
can almost sense the tension in STARDANCER, but that could be
from anything..she instead turns her gaze to VEIL...Her hand
reaching out towards the girl* Hey hold up...lemme give ya a
number, call me sometime ....*this girl was way too jumpy she
needed some sort of a base and maybe a friend*
~ACE~
*there was the appearance of another motorbike at the mall...
this time via portalling.. and Ace then slipped into the mall,
and her keen eyes soon made out VEIL.. her eyes widened... and
she made her way over to her* Bree... we were worried about you.
Especially Lyta...
~VEIL~
*She gave a faint smile to Umbra, waiting for the number. She was
grateful for any help she could get and she nodded* thank you and
..*her eyes flickered to Metallic then back to Umbra* I`m ..Bree
..*she said almost shyly, glancing up at the sound of a familiar
voice and watching as Dorothy approached, her smile turning
genuine at a familiar face* Dorothy *she breathed softly* I lost
contact with you and Lyta ...I had to ...leave ...*she said, not
wishing to say too much* It`s good to see you again~
~METTALIC~
*He glances at VEIL, who seems ready to bolt at any minute, the
other girl seeming to try to calm her...then another enters the
picture..this one his comm instantly identifies..."ACE,
origin unknown....considered dangerous".....oh well no
captures here tonight...the odds just weren't in his favour...his
gaze wanders back to STARDANCER and he chuckles* I guess your
right *L* You don't really know me from a hole in the wall...just
another musician.....What are you doing way over here anyhow?
Never thought I'd see you again...*his watch beeps and he glances
down at the time* damn its late! I gotta gig tonight
~STARDANCER~
*Despite the arrival of Dorothy, and that UMBRAs there, and that
VEIL is there. She keeps her eyes on METALLIC. Understanding that
with men who stalk you. It`s important to not take your eyes of
of them the others didn`t worry her. They weren`t hunting her as
he said he`d been.. She smiles to his conceding her point.* well,
i`m glad you see it my way.*She is a good liar, and she`s got the
looks as well as charm, to back it up. Flitting a hand without
missing a beat.* Oh, i`m here visiting a friend of mine who lives
close to the needle. She always said I should come and have a
look around Seattle, and I thought it was about time I take her
up on the offer is all.*She smiles slightly, remembering he was a
musician.* Do you do everything as well as you play music?
~UMBRA~
*she smiles at VEIL as she reaches into her purse to pull out a
paper and pen..she nods and smiles as you finally give a name*
Bree... its my cell phone number..you can pretty much reach me
with it anytime *she looks over at Ace nods in greeting* hello
*she looks back towards VEIL* call me anytime *she looks over
towards METTALIC and STARDANCER..then just makes a general
statement* I should really be going I have a lot of stuff to do
and *She looks over at the bags of purchases I have to drop all
that off first *she starts to pick up the bags* been nice seeing
you all *she looks purposely at BREE then ILYANNA* call me
~ACE~
*she sighed, glancing at the others... not paying any
attention... or not seeming to* Why`d you have to go? You got
Lyta worried sick... *under her breath* And it`s /dangerous/. You
know that better than anyone.
~METTALIC~
*He chuckles* I only wish *He glances once more at the time and
sighs* I eally have to get going...I still have to do a sound
check *he glances over briefly as he hears UMBRA make an excuse
for departure and briefly considers following her out to make a
catch, but changes his mind* Why not come by? I'm playing a the
Roxy all weekend then I'm on to Oregon...I can get you in for
free, I'll leave your name at the door if you want to show up *He
stands up * Its been neat running into you, but I really have to
go *Bye *he turns in the opposite direction of UMBRA and walks
out of the mall to his bike....while over his comm he makes
arrangements for him play to this weekend at the Roxy*
~VEIL~
*She smiled again to Umbra taking the number and tucking it into
her pocket* I will call ...*she glanced at the others and
whispered* soon ..I promise ..*then she gave an apologetic look
towards Ace* I am sorry ...I didn`t have a chance to contact
anyone ...*she shrugged, blushing* Is Lyta okay? Is she close?
*She glanced nervously at the others, again trying not to say too
much. You just couldn`t know who to trust anymore*
~STARDANCER~
*She nods to UMBRA, though not looking at her as she waits for
MICHAEL to first get up and leave.* I will babe... Count on it
this time!*She already had the girls number at home. Had thought
before about getting together with her. though she`d like to talk
more to BREE, it would seem as though the girl looked like she
was leaving.* BREE... Would you mind staying with me for a while
here? I`ve got some shopping to do, and I hate doing it
alone.*She listens closely to MICHAELs offer. Smiling slightly to
him.* I might be there... Maybe we could get together after one
of your shows and you could introduce me to your band. I wouldn`t
mind dancing on a few speakers for you guys if you need that sort
of thing.*She`d not told him what she did for a living.* Or maybe
I could just dance for you...*She waves to him as he departs.*Bye
Micheal..*Only after she`s sure he`s gone does she look away from
him.Back to BREE, DOROTHY, and STAR.* Leaving me Star?*She sighs
ans gives her another wink.* I`ll have to have you over sometime
for some chit chat.
~UMBRA~
*she smiles at BREE...but glances uneasily at ACE* Things'll be
ok *she then looks over towards STARDANCER* Yeah I have to
go...sorry..give me a ring and we'll have coffee or something
*she pulls out some money and lays it on the table to pay for her
coffee* see you later *she nods at Bree as she passes by* bye