Silk and Leather

~ATTRAIT~
~*~ Lights dimmed, curtain drawn, crowd hushed. Jean sat there in his best, a tailored suit, in the best box of the opera house. One with the clearest view. A violin started the orchestra one sole wavering tone. Soon followed by a climax of other instruments that strengthened the music. Metallic seated next to him also in a tailored suit. This feat alone took several hours of `convincing`. He sat there program upon his lap, opera glasses over his eyes. The opening scene a woman a beautiful woman with long black curls flowed down her back. Her song, in a language that Jean understood, didn`t need words that were spoken to convey the raw emotion. Every last body in the house trembled in pity. The story of her love, lost, died. The words went something like this. ~*~ // We never said that this love would be everlasting. The sheets that once shared our warm secrets is cold. Like my heart, like your body. Please, please if I were to but once more whisper words. I love you. The irony, the hand of fate, the passing of time will wear off of these emotions down. // ~*~ Jean quietly mouthed the words along with the breathtaking woman, and slowly removed the opera glasses. She sang of a lost love, looking directly in their direction. That sole emotion was sitting just to her left in a balcony, mimicking her song, in a breathless state. He rose a brow as she stared, there was no way Mademoiselle La`Maie` could know it was him due tot he lighting, but J.X. was there just the same. ~*~

~METTALIC~
*A heavy sigh leaves his body as the lights drop....why did he agree to this?...he glances from the corner of his eye to the one sitting beside him Attrait and reminds himself once again why he probably agreed to this....he sits still for long moments watching the Opera...fighting back the temptation to yawn...after all he was with a superior...he had to be on his best behaviour..as uncomfortable and awkward as it may be..he straightens up, arcing slightly to crack a back stiff form hours of sitting... his fingers twine amoungst themselves on his lap...azure eyes wander the opera house, randomly picking out points of interest...occaisoanlly pausing to admire some cleavage....then he notices two women in one of the lower balconies...attractive...at first he had thought nothing of it, pausing only briefly to note them then wandering on...then when his gaze returned a smirk crossed his face...a much more interesting show had ensued...it would appear that the girls were more more than friends...much more...his eyes widen slightly his gaze riveted on the balcony...now this was interesting...maybe this wasn't such a bad trip after all......a finger reaches up, hooking itself beneath the tie, loosening it slightly, his gaze only leaving the spectacle once...and then only to note that they were perhaps the only balcony that could see them...the smile on his lips grows...a private showing...if only James knew about this*

~*~ As she sang, as he mouthed her words it seemed as if the pair were singing a lamenting duet. J.X. then leaned back into his seat, dismissing the servant that attended their box. He watched Mike carefully, musing about the women in the box. Leaning forward, and then grabbing the youth`s chin, turning it back to the opera at hand. His touch firm, but not harsh. Saying as strongly as he could. ~*~ //Watch.// ~*~ He looked for a bit longer at the ladies and turned his attention back to the stage, as their servant finally left. Their curtain was closed behind the pair. Like a velvet door it swung shut. He sat there in darkness silent for the longest time. Only once looking back to the pair of women, if only Ian could see this. Perhaps this could convince Ian to attend next time. Fingers running White hair, deceiving his true age. The fluke making him look older than Scratch, though the truth was he was several years his underling. Hand slipping upon the arm rest, his eyes no longer looking at the opera but the spectators. All of them, every last one, in a state of awe at the woman`s voice. Hand slipping from the velvet red arm rest to his pocket. Slowly withdrawing something that looked like a case for his glasses. His leathered hand pulled out the object and placed it upon his lap. Pulling it open and placing on a set of glasses, although his vision was perfect. At this state he looked near his late 50`s. He `adjusted` his glasses turning on a small screen there. As the opera continued he read these screens. Controlling them with flush buttons upon the case. He continued to appear to watch the performance, leaning forward as she again began singing in the voice that held the audience captive. His limbs started to feel a bit weak, his mind a touch clouded. A small thin smile appeared at this fact, and at more readings upon his glasses. His body felt more drained, and considerably weak at each passing note. Each syllable. Singing still as she stared up towards their box, as Jean whispered quietly. ~*~ Oh how I have missed her. What a lovely creature. ~*~ Those words making it obvious to Mike, that this was an acquaintance of his, a very personal one at that. ~*~

*his gaze remains riveted on the women...his entire attention focused on that show, his mind oblivious tot he one he was brought to see...until he feels a hand on his chin, and his eyes are forcibly ripped away to focus once more upon the stage...//watch//..words he doesn't quite hear, but they have their impact...for a while anyhow...he leans back in the chair with a sigh..just watching. the woman on stage....not a bad voice, but could be used better elsewhere...<em>not too bad looking either, nice tits</em>...a hand comes up brushing a few long strands back from his face, strands that had long ago escaped the tail tied neatly at his nape....even with the enforced command his boredom grows and his gaze once more wanders...falling only briefly on JX...noting the rapture on his face...<em>he really gets a kick outta this stuff</em>...he sighs lightly and continues to look around...a smile crossing his lips as he is once more riveted by the show in the other balcony...a show starting to get well beyond the realms of public decency *he catches movement to his side and pulls his gaze from the bax to observe his superior, a slight frown creasing his brow at the appearance of the glasses..the frown turnings to a faint look of confusion at the muttered words* You know her sir?

~*~ Feeling his mind cloud a bit further, and knowing, simply knowing. His limbs, as the rest of the patrons in the house became lethargic. Some almost completely drained of effort, and will to move. Watching like drones. /This/ was the reason they were here. ~*~ I know her quite well you may say. ~*~ He allowed a small bit of humor brush over his lips. ~*~ When she was with GUARD a while back. I am a man too, ~*~ Pressing a few more buttons on the case, and then taking the glasses off as the first scene finished. She broke her terms of release. She was older not as efficient. An informant on the outside. She exited the stage. Attrait motioned to the servant again to retrieve them a specific bottle of champagne, even the name made it sound expensive. His strength was returning, as the servant mentioned they didn`t carry that brand. Attrait simply smiled handing the man at least 8 one hundred franc notes, saying very quietly. His powers weaving between the words, effecting the servant only. ~*~ // Go find one for me, take your time.// And please keep the change. //You should have some trouble finding it,// it is rare, I trust your abilities good man. If you should fail to find it, //forget about it all afterwards.// ~*~ He nodded with a polite smile, after all the pawn was simply doing his job. He turned again to make sure Mike was indeed watching the opera, not the women again, not him. GUARD paid a hefty price for these seats. Attrait would settle for nothing but the best. The youth might as well get some culture out of it. ~*~

*his eyes widen in shock and he leans forward to peer closer at her* GUARD? *He glances back at Attait* you mean she's...... *the words trail off as the servant steps around the curtain to take J.X.'s order..his gaze wanders to the figure on stage then once more to his superior a shrug raising his shoulders as if he is answering his own question..<EM> I suppose he could have a chick like that</EM>.... * they let her go? *he shakes his head * I thought they never.....*once more he lets his words trail off...<em> it had to be a ploy</em>...he had never heard of anyone actually leaving GUARD unless they became a RUNner, then they were top priority...He glances once more a the stage, the other balcony just barely visible from the corner of his eye...then his head suddenly whips over to watch the women once more...his jaw dropping in shock..even for him that was beyond what he had expected*

Special circumstances Michael. ~*~ Jean`s eyes narrowed as he steadily looked around the room, and not an eye was on his box. The four other boxes across the way were too far to see anything. He then reached into his waistband. Began again softly singing the words of this scene as well. Jean`s voice perfectly matching the accent, tone, language and pitch. A beautiful thing J.X.`s voice was. His hands pressed over a MK-23 Socom, spinning quickly a silencer over it. This suppressor also eliminated flashes, and sounds. Concealing the weapon. Watching intently on the scene unfurling below them, not the one on the balcony, but the one on the stage. The woman again reappeared, distressed as her father spoke with her. Attrait, watched, hearing her heart felt pleas. Feeling her sorrows, as she again looked directly at their box. Uncanny, Jean looked back directly at her. Leaning forward as she sang again, feeling his body drain slowly. A thin smile appeared as his eyes swelled a bit. Her voice filling very pore, every space around the audience. In unison they sang, the words. ~*~ // I am sorry, and farewell loved one. // Raising the gun as well as the song continued. No sound, no flash, J.X.`s strength not even allowing the showing of a recoil. A very, very faint scent of gunpowder his heightened senses picked up. Doing this quickly and placing the gun in his waistband. His jacket smoothing over the lump, and easily. He watched as she coughed, a red flower blooming directly over her heart. Silence filled the room as she crumpled, gurgled, and fell to the ground limp. The barrel was searing against his flesh, and he sat there as if it was nothing. If he did his job properly Mike might not even have noticed. The crowd almost asleep hardly noticed. The only people in shock were other actors upon the stage. They were silent. The Orchestra continued, though her siren song was shattered. Saying then quietly. . . ~*~ Stay put.

Special circumstances? *his head starts to turn hesitantly back towards JX as he speaks...his eyes still riveted by the women...then he catches just a glimmer of movement to his side...and tears himself from the spectacle to look briefly at his superior.....a half hearted smile graces lips as he realizes the purpose of this outing...it wasn't his education, it was backup...he had missed the actual shot, but he saw the singer fall to the ground...before she was even down the gun once more was hidden from sight...the operation smooth and seamless...they had only to wait for the crime to be discovered....he glances briefly at Attrait as he tells him to stay....something Mike knew well...he was a vet, a good one... a rebel at all other opportunities, but in the field he was business..GUARD was in truth his life...a truth on which he walked a very fine line, sometimes pushing the envelope just to see how far he could go.....he looks for a brief second at his superior...wondering if only for a second how one can shoot what he could only assume was his ex lover, but that thought lasts barely a second.....it was business...GUARD could not be revealed, what they were was to be hidden and protected at all cost*

~*~ The heat searing, burning. He pressed this aside as a commotion began below them. He stood then looking towards her, replacing his glasses quickly, they showed no signs of life. A pool of dark blood formed beneath her. Jean, as painful as it was for him, felt a bit satisfied. Tears still swelled, as he remembered how the rest of that song went. // Just say those words, I will follow you to death. I want to share each moment with you, even in death. // He removed his glasses and placed them back into their case, once more. He looked over the balcony as many spectators were doing at that precise moment. A mummer from the crowd, then a blood curdling scream from one of the actresses. That got the rest of the crowd in a n uproar. ~*~ If we left now we`d be trampled. ~*~ He said smoothly, and continued to stare. // Even in death you will look the same, sound the same. Those whispers shared, and times shared could not now even damper the remorse, the pain, agony of a world without you. // Sighing and then he looked back to Michael. Almost adding a bit of humor in a very quiet, very dry tone. ~*~ I did warn you that Opera`s never had happy endings. ~*~ Saying then quietly, for all to hear, as strongly as he could. Even if the mass could not /hear/ the words, they knew their meaning. ~*~ // Everyone quietly, quickly file tot he lobby. Calmly, quietly, no need for a giant mob. The police will be here soon. // ~*~ Controlling, that many was a strain even for Jean, some too panicked to even notice, the rest, filed quietly to the lobby and waited. After they all left, the theatre was quiet, he glanced back at her once more. ~*~ Brava, Brava, ~*~ He then looked to Michael. ~*~ Quickly now to the lobby, we do not want to seem suspicious. ~*~ He pulled the curtain aside and moved down the hall without much haste, in the same pace most of the patrons used. Explaining in a very low tone. ~*~ I will explain everything after we are in the limousine. ~*~ He descended the stairs one hand poised on the rail, elegance, and revere that seemed unrivaled. He slipped with Michael into the crowd. Staying close to his backup. Pleased the boy listened to every in every aspect of the experience. Moving with the aide of his powers to the doors. Standing there as the police ran in. He quickly gave a false name and a name for Michael. That`s all they could do for such a large mass. In a few minutes they were outside heading towards the limousine. ~*~

*As other begin to lean over the balconies he follows suit, blending with the crowd..staring down at the fallen singer...the scream echoes through the room and panic starts to consume the patrons...he winces at the scream and reaches out dampening the sound immediately around them...they didn't need to be suffused....an almost imperceptible nod answers Attrait as he watches the crowd try to trample each other in their panic to reach their goals...some striving for the fallen woman, others blindly seeking exits..he reaches to amplify J.X.'s voice then stops himself...uncertain if amplification of the sound would help....* Yes sir...* he follows Attrait out to the lobby, staying close by, always wry of any that approached...it wouldn't do to have his superior picked off on his watch...especially if it was just by some scared natural..He stands aside silently then follows out to the limousine....he doens't wait for the drive he opens the door and gestures Attrait inside..then signals the driver to go....tense muscles relax as they drive away...he hadn't realized how keyed up he had gotten in that short time*

~*~ Mike quickly opened the door to the limousine. The black sheen reflected the police lights, the opera house lights, and every other aspect of illumination. He slid into the leather interior, simply saying ~*~ Computers on ~*~ Holographic screens appeared as soon as Metallic would have shut the door. Attrait rolled down the mirror like windows to take a last longing look. Explaining as soon as the boy sat down. ~*~ I had to do this myself you understand. She betrayed me, placed our lives in danger. ~*~ He lowered his tone. ~*~ If anyone else had dared to touched her, I would have had to kill them. Sounds odd doesn`t it? ~*~ He mentioned simply, as if he were speaking of the weather. He entered a few things on the computer. A picture of the singer popped up, as he typed -DECEASED- over her lovely picture. He then entered a few more points of interest, and then said, not adverting his eyes from her face. ~*~ I am very pleased with your obedience this night. You did incredibly well. If you prefer to change into your normal attire, it should be over there. ~*~ He refused to call him boy, or son. He wasn`t that much younger than himself. Aside from that he /liked/ him. He didn`t want to degrade him. ~*~ Perhaps you would also like to get a bite to eat? ~*~ He continued to stare for a moment, his fingers rolling over his brow. Finally letting the image fade from view.~*~

*he watches in silence as Attrait glances almost longingly back at the opera house* I understand sir....I think *...he wasn't sure if he did...did he stand for GUARD that much? would he betray someone for GUARD?..he didn't know, and wouldn't know until the time came...he watches Attrait, tilting his head slightly a slight puzzlement briefly carressing his brow* Odd sir? *he shakes his head * I don't think so *he watches as Attrait types in some comments, finishing up the file, closing it...* uhmmm, thank you? *the words hesitant....he wasn't sure if it was a baited trap or not...he had never worked with Attrait prior to this..in fact until a few minutes ago he didn't know that he was working with Attrait..he thought he was just playing trained escort..he glances over at his clothing his hand reaching for his precious leather jacket then pulls it back* its Okay sir...I can change later *..why he did it even he didn't know...perhaps respect for Attrait...some would consider it brown nosing...except that those who know his record know thats not his style...he shrugs* If you want sir

~*~ Offering a small smile, and nodding assuredly. ~*~ I thought you would be a lot more trouble, more than you are worth from the sounds of your files. And for that reason is the precisely why I conclude personality myself. I try not to judge by those files. ~*~ He cleared his throat, looking at Michael almost laughing. ~*~ Leather and silk. Vercace is spinning in his grave. ~*~ He allowed a good hearted chuckle before debating what restaurant to take them too. Assured that Michael would not like escargot, and caviar, he could settle for some calamari, or even swordfish. ~*~ Yes I do have an appetite. And please, while not on the field call me Jean, J.X., or Attrait, which ever you prefer. ~*~ He settled in his seat a bit further, pressing a button on the console to tell the driver which restaurant, and where.

*His only answer is a smile...he knows what his files say, or the public portion anyhow...and he can easily guess what the rest of it says as well....rebel, troublemaker, lazy, undisciplined...he knew it was all there, and didn't care...he knew his pysch profile determined him as a potential runner...but he also knew himself...and didn't really care what others thought..* who sir? *that was one name he didn't know...he wasn't stupid, just didn't bother learning what he didn't have to...and that was one name that eluded him* Fine sir....uhmmm Attra....Jean *..somehow it just feel right calling a superior by his field name when he had asked for a relaxed setting...so Jean worked..he shruggged as Jean mentioned a name to the driver..an obscure name he didn't recognize...but the way he saw it...food was food...though he'd probably be happier with a steak and a beer*

~*~ Attrait saw it as adding culture to Michael`s life as well. Perhaps the kid might enjoy a taste of a life he never knew. ((`Cause he`s a punk)) ~*~ He`s the dead man who designed the three thousand dollar suit you are wearing. ~*~ He added another soft chuckle. Jean wanted to be on a personal level with his fellow GUARD, and if this boy was a potential RUNner, scolding would only drive him away. Rewards were how to keep his type in-line. ~*~ Actually I would prefer to have a man like you at my side, than a thousand Warpoles, though don`t let him hear that I said that. ~*~ Giving a last chuckle before the limo pulled up to the restaurant. He let the driver open his door and waited for Michael to slide out. The place they were eating served steak and beer, as well as a delightful entrée menu, and several wonderful types of rarities. Tonight the special dish was ostrich with a light lemon sauce. J.X.`s mouth was practically watering. He stepped out of the limousine and entered the four star dining establishment. ~*~

*his eyes widen in shock as he looks down at the suit* Three...Thousand?....oh man! *...even his bike didn't cost him that much originally.. it was a scrapper he had picked up for next to nothing and rebuilt from the ground up...sure he collected a nice paycheque..he just never saw much reason to spend it and banked it all...even his current guitar was cheaper than this suit* thats a lot a money...*he shakes his head and chuckles, his gaze wandering to where his clothes are....maybe he should change...no doubt he'd ruin this.....* Really? *his tone and his look scream his skeptiscm at Attraits comment..he highly doubted that was true...Warpole was a disciplined, seasoned Veteran Cyhunter, one of the best out there...he on the other hand was a Veteran who followed orders when it suited him with no exceptional skills...Micheal shakes his head in amusement as they pull up to the restaurant, he chuckles quietly to himself as they slide form the car, then looks up at the restaurant and sighs....<em> another boring ordeal I can tell</em>*

~*~ The seat was pulled out for him, and they brought the finest wines. Jean smiled honestly again at Michael wondering if he even enjoyed the part of the Opera he did see. He didn`t dare to ask him though. Instead he brought up a variety of other topics to pass the time of their meal. Even convincing the band to play Metalica`s Unforgiven on cello. It would have to do until they got home. After they were done eating, he stood looking at the man before him. He had surpassed all of his expectations. And that was not a very easy thing to do. ~*~ I wanted to thank you, and say I am very pleased with you. I am going to drown out those marks on your record GUARD. Replace them with only your supreme performance tonight. Although you did not participate in the initial capture kill //you did an excellent job Michael.// Don`t let anyone tell you other wise. ~*~ He placed his hand on the youth`s shoulder and patted firmly. ~*~ You will turn out fine. // You are exactly what we need around here.// If you have any troubles do not hesitate to come directly to me. ~*~ Releasing his shoulder and then paid their tab. Walking with him to the limousine again. ~*~ Don`t worry you`ll be in your street apparel again soon. ~*~ Entering then their ride, and going home. ~*~

*Micheal was actually surprised..the meal was pretty good and the wine was okay, just not his style...and it was sorta amusing when they played Unforgiven on the Cello...it was in general an interesting evening the end of the evening was even more of a surprise...when Arrait...Jean...said that he would wipe clean Mikes file that was almost too good to believe...but it would be nice if it did happen, only time would tell..he knows he gonna accumulate more marks....but maybe this time he might manage to hold a rank advancement a little longer than eight months...as is now hes barely above the second years...he kept getting demoted...he lays back on his bunk, leather jacket thrown carelessly over the back of a chair, boots tossed in a corner...his hands behind his head as he stares at the ceiling...phrases running through his head "excellent job' 'what we need'.....all in all it had been an extremely interesting night...he almost wondered what tomorrow would bring*