#practicalFamiliar

[gulescamisade]

Betty Crocker Headquarters:  Headquarters Entrance

[Suddenly, coming out of the building on the ground are several legislacerators with one in particular at the lead. Doesn't look like they want anybody leaving...or entering.]

EUPHORIA: -stands at the front, focused. He will give orders as needed-

JAMES: -!!!!!!!!!! So this is where he stands. Equips himself with the photon shield once again. He's battle ready.-

TEREZI: =oh fuck....it's her old teacher!=

KARKAT: !!! ... =FINS FLARE AND HE HISSES=

JAMES: -He's perhaps passing knowledge of this troll. Depending on their infamy.- 

JAMES: ... -Either way, he's waiting for them to make the first move.-

DISCIPLE: -She pulls her lion hood over her face, pulling out a crossbow.-

DISCIPLE: You are here for justice, she thinks.

DISCIPLE: Is this true?

[[ A legislacerator in the ranks pipes up: "We are the Empress's Justice. All those who defy her will fall." ]]

DISCIPLE: We are the people's justice. 

DISCIPLE: We cannot be killed. 

DISCIPLE: No one says the same for empires, she thinks, yes? 

DISCIPLE: Look upon ye mighty. 

DISCIPLE: -She LAUNCHES A BOLT.- 

DISCIPLE: And despair.

[[ One in the crowd of troll lawyers finds a bolt to the heart and drops a bit patheically. Plop.]]

HESONY: ...

DISCIPLE: -She loads another, teeth bared.-

EUPHORIA: -speaking of despair, everyone in the immediate vicinity will feel it. It's strong. Crippling despair-

MICEXA: --! 

MICEXA: -She knows she doesn't need to say it, but she looks at Sunny immediately-

JAMES: -He... is not invulnerable to this... The shield faulters.-

KARKAT: =FUCK YOU ESPECIALLY EUPHORIA=

HESONY: =he quickly activates his own power of nullification, but unfortunately all other powers in the immediate area will also be nullified.=

DISCIPLE: -Her eye slits go narrow for a second, but just a second. She stares at the group and that horrified expression turns to a snarl.-

HESONY: =He's fighting against his own.. This is highly unprecedented.=

JAMES: -He never had powers to begin with. It's enough for James to take action and lob a whole THREE DECKER CAKE at Euphoria with considerable force. Eat that, Justice.-

DAVE: -god DAMN IT HE NEEDS TO GET UP THAT WALL but the feeling--it's so heavy. He's gonna try to push for it anyway-

[[ At the unlawful attack of their commander, the legislacerators surge forth, drawing their own weapons and preparing to swarm the crew. ]]

EUPHORIA: -equips his weapon, a half scythe half sword dealio that seems bigger than your average scimitar. He uses it defensively, weakening the blow. The feeling of despair is even stronger.-

JAMES: -there's a mess of cakes flying around. 🍰-

KARKAT: =Luckily his fucking fists won't be. He's leaping into the fray to fish punch the nearest lawyer... actually no. He's going to straight up grab this bitch and hoist em=

KARKAT: =HISS=

HESONY: =He pushes harder, keeping focused as he raised his shield for the incoming attack. He never had to go against the mental abilities of another legislacerator before, so the entire process is taxing on the mind.=

TEREZI: =Pop pop pop! She's firing into the oncoming crowd. With how many there are, she doesn't really need to worry about aim all that much.=

DISCIPLE: -Another bolt, before she bashes the whole crossbow into pieces over one of the Legislacerator's heads. And then the claws are out.-

DISCIPLE: -Well, she's not gonna bother with all that fiddling and reloading if they're just going to RUSH at her.-

[[ The crossbow bash takes one down for the count. My, thisll be embarrassing when they wake up in the morning. ]]

EUPHORIA: -despair only seems to fuel them. Rapid mood change. Intimidated. Nothing you do will actually defeat this ENTIRE group. That's what it feels like anyway.- S urrender a nd t his w ill g o b y m uch q uicker.()

KARKAT: =If he got the chance to hoist this mofo then he's using him as a weapon. He is beating other motherfuckers with motherfuckers and that means you Euphoria= SHUT YOUR FUCKING FACESHITTER! =But as that mood changes he does hesitate a bit... is a familiar feeling but not a pleasant one=

DAVE: -focuses a strategy and attempts to take a risk here, flash stepping through the crowd and to the side where he can start pulling himself up. This is gonna be a tough one. He doesn't feel like he can do it but he has to try-

KARKAT: =Dave you idiot... GODDAMMIT=

HESONY: It won't end the same this time, Euphoria! =He's stepping closer, trying to enhance his negation. He knows he needs to be closer and he began to barrel through some with his shield. Resorting to slicing through them when they begin to swarm him, he kept his gaze locked with his former judicator.= 

[[Terezi's bullet's hit, but none are fatal. She succeeded in grazing an arm while another went cleanly through a shoulder. But legislacerators are tenacious. They continued on, attacking the group with terrifying strength.]]

DAVE: -sword in between teeth for easy access-

[[Karkat bowls a few people over with his actual-troll bowling ball. ]]

KARKAT: =GOOD=

KARKAT= He's just gonna go whole, ass ape and try to cut through these lawyers=

EUPHORIA: T he l ess d eath, t he b etter, w ouldn't y ou s ay? M y o wn w ords. -wow everyone is starting to feel REALLY HAPPY so happy it's paralyzing who even FEELS this happy ever-

KARKAT: =Why this though?? He pauses his asshole swinging at the wrong moment and gets shanked tf up, gdi his arm=

JAMES: -Lobbing a barasol infused bomb. 💥 NOTHING IS HAPPY ABOUT THIS SITUATION SIR. GET OUT OF HIS HEAD. -

DAVE: -this is hard. The way he's feeling makes him wants to roll on the ground laughing for some reason but it takes everything he can to keep pulling himself up. Speedily. He has to ignore the pain for now--he's already halfway there-

EUPHORIA: -slinks behind the legislacerators for more of a defensive position. He can't stop looking at hesony and micexa, but that doesn't mean he's not focused-

JAMES: -have more cake.-

DISCIPLE: -If they're going defensive, she's going to push in harder. Injuries be damned; she's covered in all kinds of blood.-

TEREZI: =she's keeping her distance, if only because she's doing long range...wow...what is wrong with the world actually?= F1GHT 1T!! YOU KNOW YOU C4N! =pew pew!=

KARKAT: =Dave if he could he'd punch you in the ass but he DOES fight it and starts to punch throats. Fighting in the fray. Fists and claws a flyin=

[[ James's Barbasol bomb is spied by several legislacerators who panic to get out of the way. The casualties are seven space lawyers who are in various states of incapacitation. The others escape singed but alive.=

DAVE: -he almost loses his grip for a second but gets his shit together enough to keep going up. 3/4ths of the way. Speed climbing-

JAMES: -doing massive evasive maneuvers that involve even more cakes being thrown around. ALL THE BAD GENTS AND LADIES ARE GETTING CAKE'D.-

EUPHORIA: -he's slightly singed after blocking his face from the explosion but he's been through worse. Increases the feeling of happiness even more. Can it even be considered happiness when it's so intense it's painful?-

DISCIPLE: -That is a fascinating question, and perhaps one to ponder as she attempts to fling a dead body at Euphoria.-

[[ James's efforts ejects the sylladexes of four of the legislacerators, and among the items include Aranea's tablet, Terezi's swords before she acquired her cane, aranea's sword, and a plethora of Dave's photos. ]]

KARKAT: =smacked in the face with lovely photography. FLAILS HIS FISTS=

TEREZI: =she's firing the gun as she goes for her old swords. Hello sweeties.=

EUPHORIA: -disciple is talented, and this dead body gets him right in the stomach, knocking the wind out of him, but he is still standing.- F orward! -he shouts-

DAVE: -4/4 of the way up this roof finally. He is here no longer-

KARKAT: =BYE FOREVER DVE=

KARKAT: =Uppercuts a lawyer=

[[ The legislacerators continue their advance forward, trying to force the group to the water. ]]

DISCIPLE: -YOWLS-

DISCIPLE: -PUSHES BACK!!!-

[[ Legislacerator: punched! His balance is thrown off and he staggered but didn't fall. Karkat's fist may also be smarting just a tad. ]]

[[ Terezi's attempts at reaching her weapon are unsuccessful. For now. It is evident they are aware what her signature weapons are and do not want her using them. ]]

[[ A legislacerator Disciple shoved comically backpedals trying to keep from falling over until he eventually falls onto his butt. ]]

JAMES: -Is terezi trying to get at her weapon? Allow James to have enough of this and STRONG PUNCH his way through the wall of Legis.🤜💥-

EUPHORIA: -that is embarrassing-

DISCIPLE: it's like slapstick except for the part where she goes to town with those claws-

KARKAT: =His fists are on fire but he tries to throw THEM in the water now. Get on his newly acquired turk scrubs=

[[ James is definitely more successful than Terezi was. ]]

[[ Legislacerator: BIG GLOWING DEAD SIGN OVERHEAD ]]

EUPHORIA: -weapon out ready to take anybody out if need be. Except a certain three he may be trying to avoid- P ush t hem b ack!

[[ Karkat's efforts are also fruitful. For the first two. While on the third, the legislacerator grabs his shirtfront and pulls him into the water with her. ]]

KARKAT: =I'M A FISH BITCH BUT OKAY, SPLOOSH=

KARKAT: =hey guys... wanna see what the bottom of the harbor looks like? DRAGS THEM ALL=

HESONY: =He's still trying to barrel through to get to Euphoria. He's making progress, but the lacerations are piling up...=

JAMES: -rolling to retrieve the swords. He hass the swrods.-

DISCIPLE: -She pretty much attempts a FLYING CATLEAP at euphoria. The one giving orders. OBVIOUSLY the one she wants most dead.-

[[ There is another push as the legislacerators surge forward, slashing at them with bladed weapons and firing into the crowd with pistols. ]]

EUPHORIA: -attempts to block disciple with his weapon. This could hurt if successful-

DISCIPLE: -There is some DEFINITE olive blood, but it is good enough to know that she made it that distance.-

DISCIPLE: Rrrrrr.

KARKAT: =Now that he's drowned people he emerges to YANK ANKLES=

TEREZI: =Raises her hand toward James= H3R3!

[[ Disciples attack only grazed Euphoria, just as Euphoria's defense only caused minor injury to Disciple. ]]

[[ Karkat's grip slips a couple times due to the slipperiness of water, but he is INCREDIBLY SUCCESSFUL the next few attempts. ]]

KARKAT: =SNATCHES EM UP into the water=

DISCIPLE: -She tumbles and rolls, but she's already going in, attempting to swipe with her claws in rapid succession.-

MICEXA: -EXPECT HER TO HELP YOU OUT, HESONY. She is your blade...-

[[ if that's the case, Micexa should expect lacerations too ]]

EUPHORIA: -this cat is undeterred by EVERYTHING. He also lifts his weapon up AGAIN to block. She grazed him before and it's clear what she can do if he doesn't successfully block her-

[[ Euphoria's arakh is long and successfully blocks most of Disciple's onslaught. ]]

KARKAT: =Did he drown enough to clear some o the ASSHOLES. If so he's going to help Disci with a SHOULDER CHARGE at Euph=

DISCIPLE: -this is pretty true. She is BRISTLING and GROWLING, the part of her brain that uses reason and logic and words completely shut down.-

[[ Among the fallen legislacerators, some familiar items are found: terezi's dragon scale jacket, karkat's dual sickles, a pretty banged up toolbox, and what appears to be an entire library's worth of books (spoilers, they're aranea's). ]]

KARKAT: =After he tries this thing he'll be back=

[[ Man these rolls are making Euphoria pretty much untouchable. ]]

EUPHORIA: -bOOM-

EUPHORIA: -time for intense panic-

KARKAT: =FOOL, THAT ONLY MAKES HIM SWING HARDER=

DISCIPLE: -Well, if he doesn't take a swing at HER, then she's going to keep pressing. Maybe she'll die of exhaustion but... you probably don't want to roll those bones my friend-

JAMES: -manages to fling the swords to Terezi as best as he can.-

EUPHORIA: -still attempting to block disciple and karkat-

[[ Well the die says 7. At least it's not a 4. Euphoria is NICKED and maybe loses a fingertip. ]]

KARKAT: =his finger now bitch=

DISCIPLE: -She pants, taking a step back and pulling something out of her cloak.- DISCIPLE: -It's... a bottle of glittery gasoline.-

DISCIPLE: Rrrr.

DISCIPLE: -Sparks a flame wit a lighter and LIGHTS IT.-

KARKAT: =OK BYE=

EUPHORIA: -ohh shit. He barely has time to process being nicked-

TEREZI: =She fumbled only for a moment with her swords, but she soon as them in her hands. She was preparting to attack but barely had time to defend, the blade of another sword halted millimeters from her face.= 

[[ The discipletov cocktail ignites in glorious, glittery flame. ]]()

[[ If Euphoria is quick, he will escape with only second degree burns. ]]

DISCIPLE: -DODGE THIS IMPORTANT MAN- 

DISCIPLE: -she FLINGS IT-

EUPHORIA: -he attempts to dodge x 2!!!!-

[[ He's successful, but much of his right arm and part of his torso is kissed by fire. ]]

KARKAT: ARGH!! FUCKING DIE! =goes for the tackle=()

DISCIPLE: -THAT IS A SATISFYING KABOOM NONETHELESS-

EUPHORIA: -he is BURNED and winces at the pain but still has a tight hold of his weapon-

DISCIPLE: -She's not rushing in this time. Karkat is going head on, but her? She's prowling, now. Cat and mouse. Low to the ground. A claw to slash his achilles tendon.-

[[ No matter how much they try, Euphoria is decidedly difficult to take down. His ankle is slashed at but the angle is awkward and only managed to tear a wound into his leg. ]]

DISCIPLE: -She hasn't STOPPED, THEN. She's swinging another fist directly into his knee. ALL CLAWS THROUGH IT.-

EUPHORIA: -he keeps trying to fight back. He can't give up and he won't and he swings his weapon at her-

[[ While the rest of the group, including Terezi, is busy cutting down legislacerators near the water's edge, Hesony finally breaks through the rest of the crowd, just in time to see Disciples claws happen right through Euphoria's knee. ]]

DISCIPLE: -once it tears right through, she just leverages her weight forward to force him down, ripping her claws out and attempting to bring them down again through his back this time.-

EUPHORIA: -he at the very least falls to his knees, grunting in pain and everything is happening so FAST and so quickly and he really wishes it didn't go down like this-

TEREZI: =There is a cry from across the way. She too far to do anything.= HESONY: =But he isn't. Finally through, a shout rips from him= No! =And he's lunging to place himself in between Euphoria and Disciple.=

DISCIPLE: -TUMBLES as her claws fail to hit their mark, skidding on all fours as she snarls at Hesony.-

[[ The claws do tear through his metal arm, striking Euphoria in the process. However, it was not as deadly as it could have been. ]]

EUPHORIA: -his knee is entirely fucked up and trying to gain his bearings is being near impossible. He's sure he's dead until he sees someone standing in front of him. Oh kid...-

HESONY: ... =he just...doesnt know what to do now. His eyes are wide, surprised at his own actions=

KARKAT: =BEATS HI- wait... WHAT?=

JAMES: -this is his chance. He flies in to lock Euphoria in high quality proton energy cuffs. Just spy gear he's had since his days with Skaianet.- THERE WILL BE NO MORE BLOODSHED.

DISCIPLE: -SNARLS at James, too.-

JAMES: -He knows what he's about, cat.-

KARKAT: =James no... Karkat usually likes you=

EUPHORIA: -breathes heavily at the pain from the claw injuries and the blue blood that escapes from his skin. He keeps looking up at hesony. Just the entire time-

DISCIPLE: -She looks at the others. The calm, the anger, the acceptance, the sorrow. It's enough that her snarl fades, a small, butter expression left as she retracts her claws and pulls away her hood.-

HESONY: =please dont look at him. Everyone already doesn't trust them for squat and now he just defended the enemy(?) FUck....=

KARKAT: =Definitely not happy about it = YOU NEED TO PICK A SIDE. =He's still steamed about it=

MICEXA: -She just releases a pent-up breath. Frankly, she wasn't sure where to stand... but knowing this is working out this way tells her it was what she hoped for.-

MICEXA: -And also HESONY WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING BECAUSE I JUST READ THAT WHOLE THING NOW-

JAMES: -The troll is subdued... It's the most he can hope for.-

TEREZI: =she's jogging up, out of breath from fighting.= K4RK4T H3S... 

TEREZI: H3 W4S OUR JUD1C4TOR 

TEREZI: =that's no excuse but. She looks torn.=

MICEXA: -HESONY YOU IDIOT-

MICEXA: -YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO TRY TO DIE!!!-

HESONY: =I KNOW=

KARKAT: GREAT SO HOW DID HE HELP US EXACTLY BY TRYING TO KILL US?

KARKAT: FUCK THIS ASSHOLE!

MICEXA: -rushes over to Hesony and just. Rests a hand on his arm and squeezes. They need to get the hell out of this situation.-

[[ Once seeing Euphoria fall, the legislacerators that remained were beaten back with the UU's own tenacity and were forced to retreat further into the headquarters, escaping elsewhere to regroup with The Expunger. ]]

KARKAT: OH, AND ALL THAT OTHER SHIT HE SUCCEEDED IN DOING????

DISCIPLE: You are right. 

DISCIPLE: I do not care what he was. 

DISCIPLE: -She throws the bloody claws down. And then drops several of the bloody furs.- 

DISCIPLE: But it doesn't matter now. -Her voice rumbles, hoarse.- 

DISCIPLE: -She shoots a glare at Hesony and Micexa and Euphoria, too. Deep breath through her nose. And then, she lets it go.-

DISCIPLE: -And then she turns, abruptly, her voice rising to a snarl again.-

DISCIPLE: Remember. 

DISCIPLE: When this war is won. 

DISCIPLE: When your side has fallen. 

DISCIPLE: Remember where you stood for the rest of your life.

DISCIPLE: -And with that, she stalks off.-

EUPHORIA: Y ou w ere a lways m uch m ore c ompassionate t han y ou g ave y ourself c reddit f or. -he says under his breath- I f y ou c an't k ill m e...l eave m e h ere.

HESONY: =he's not going to run. That would only solidify his guilt. He doesn't move.= TEREZI: 1 KNOW! 1 KNOW... =shes glancing between Karkat and her former team= 1 KNOW

KARKAT: =he'll argue for you Disciple, he's just. Still flared in the fins, because you guys are fucking nuts and TWO of you he still hates=

JAMES: -says nothing. Only gazing sternly.-

EUPHORIA: Y ou d id e very t hing r ight. N ot t he w ay s he w anted i t.

HESONY: But we did. All of us. Stooping to whatever command she gave us and daring to call it justice when it was anything but. 

HESONY: =He won't say a word to defend himself. Everything the crew said so far was true.=

KARKAT: =He just. Lifts his hands, fists. STEAMING off a frustrated noise Terezi... how much would you hate him if he just. Ate them right the fuck now??=  

MICEXA: ... -She doesn't know what to say. In times like these, it's not so clear. There are too many shades of grey, and how could she possibly make such a call? What choices have they been given, when it all comes down to moments like this one?- 

MICEXA: -The fact is, war isn't made on anything that matters. It's a child's game fought with the tools of adults, the most basic of tenants as right versus wrong. In the end, no one truly wins.- 

MICEXA: \|/e were told to fight or die. 

MICEXA: No one ever told us there could be more.

MICEXA: Hesony...

MICEXA: This isn't in our hands anymore.

TEREZI: =ONE, she'd be too stunned to register hate, and TWO, cannibalism=

MICEXA: The only place I stand... is with my swarm. MICEXA: -looks over at Terezi-

MICEXA: I'm not going to fight what you think is best.

[APPROXIMATELY, there are fifty shades of grey Micexa]

[Just for reference.]

MICEXA: -sudden urge to punch a book somewhere-

EUPHORIA: -he's...taking pride in what micexa is saying. How these three turned out this way he'll never know-

TEREZI: 1....

TEREZI: =They're leaving it up to her? Again?? The last time she decided anything for them, she was an auspistice no longer and their team had been whittled down both in number and will.=

TEREZI: 1 DONT W4NT 4NY MOR3 P3OPL3 1 C4R3 4BOUT TO D13

TEREZI: 1M T3LL1NG YOU NOW TH3R3 1S MOR3

TEREZI: 1 KNOW TH3 3XPUNG3R W4NTS YOU TWO JUST 4S D34D NOW...BUT 1TS NOT MY C4LL

TEREZI: ...

TEREZI: OUR SH1P H4S 4 COUNC1L

TEREZI: WH3N D3C1S1ONS 4R3 M4D3, TH3YR3 M4D3 4S ON3

TEREZI: 1 C4N 4RR4NG3 4 M33T1NG W1TH OUR C4PT41N, BUT...TH4TS 4LL 1 C4N DO

TEREZI: =It's clear her own words are hurting her to say them.=

KARKAT: =😒=

TEREZI: =ilu=

KARKAT: =He loves you too.... that's why he isn't doing more than steaming the water off his body with the heat of his rage=

TEREZI: =😬=

EUPHORIA: A t rial. O f y our o wn.

HESONY: =he just hangs his head. It was better than he expected. At least they had a chance, however small.=

TEREZI: Y3S

EUPHORIA: H a.

TEREZI: 1TS D1FF3R3NT TEREZI: =she glanced over at Sunny and Miss= 1TS HOW W3 W4NT3D 1T TO B3

EUPHORIA: ...V ery w ell.

[[ Among the possessions left behind, and with a little digging, they uncover Dave's pistol and communicator, Mindfang's sword, about 1/3 of Nyalah's weed, Aranea's tablet, and Latula's billy club, skateboard collection, and hoverboard. At least the items people could not part with are all accounted for. ]]()

KARKAT: =LIKE YOU HAVE A CHOICE, but he gathers all these things=

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0430

UNCLE BRO: -HERE HE IS, coming to get a sports drink after some physical therapy and a LIGHT workout. At this point he really just has the cane for aesthetic. After retrieving his drink he plops down at a table, sipping it while being a little winded.- BRO: -IS HE STILL HERE? regardless, derek is also here now, slinking into the cafeteria for a meal probably barely passable as food.- UNCLE BRO: -Casually eating some curry now- Sup RILEY: -what a coincidence, here comes she. except she goes straight to staring at the food. And giving it a dirty look- BRO: -sweats about riley. shes so small... and so angry... but he's preoccupying himself by eyeballing the brother- Are you out for good now? MOM: -Well everyones gotta' eat. However, When Roxanne enters the cafeteria and sees the company its already holding she kinda regrets not coming in an hour before...-

MOM: -Its too late to turn around now without making it obviously weird. So shes going to quietly walk herself over to the food options, keeping her distance from Riley.- RILEY: -WHY. WHY IS THIS HAPPENING. why does food make her want to puke? Ok, she knows why, but why is Roxanne here? this sucks. she's trying to make something here sound appetizing in her head but failing at it- UNCLE BRO: Yep -He's looking around. Oh this should be good- BRO: -NO?? NO IT SHOULDNT. now he's glancing over at them nervously- ...

BRO: Yeah cool. MOM: -You should try eating soup if your stomach feels janked up Riley. Shes grabbing some and potato salad.-

MOM: -And Roxanne does side eye Riley once before turning and starting to look around for a table. She would like to give a greeting to Davenforth of course but Derek is right there...- UNCLE BRO: Kept ya waitin huh BRO: Shut up Keifer. -slides into a seat next to him. just gonna. try to ignore all that business over there.- RILEY: -it's all a little too much, trying so hard to like this food and trying not to feel even more guilty that she doesn't really want to be speaking out loud, but she makes a conscious choice to do so anyway.- i fucking give up. i give up. BRO: -baby do n t- ROXANNE: -Owl turns her head at Riley's voice- ........ UNCLE BRO: Its lettuce BRO: Im gonna slap the shit out of you. -DONT MEME AT A TIME LIKE THIS- UNCLE BRO: Yo riri try the egg drop soup its bomb

RILEY: no. it looks like shit. it smells like shit. i don't need this.

ROXANNE: (Then don't eat it.)

ROXANNE: -Pretty simple, you dont need to insult the chef Riley.-

UNCLE BRO: ....-It finally goddamn clicks and he turns to Derek-

UNCLE BRO: Is she

UNCLE BRO: Yaknow

BRO: -el squinto- Is she what? -YIKES-

UNCLE BRO: Yaknow bakin buns and shit

BRO: ... 

BRO: ... 

BRO: ... -KILL BILL SIRENS AS IT ALL SUDDENLY MAKES SENSE-

MOM: -She finally picked a table by herself one over from Davenforth and Derek, and right as she sat down she MAY have over heard that question.- 

MOM: -Her internal reaction is very much the same as Dereks.-

UNCLE BRO: -He facepalms- God fucking dammit

RILEY: -spins around after realizing that they've caught on and crosses her arms, disguising the panic in being defensive as hell- who the-- why would you even ask something like that? i'm standing right here. i can HEAR you. fucking dick move, dave.

MOM: -She quite suddenly also does not feel like eating.-

UNCLE BRO: Dick move dave thats me just here to pass out the latest in dickish maneuvers

BRO: Jesus. Christ. 

BRO: For fuckin real Dave. -but also looks at riley sweatily-

RILEY: -pointedly not looking at Derek because she cannot- yeah, calm down. -uh oh, she's losing it-

DAD: -There sure sounds like a lot of cussing out here. Cue the strong fatherly disapproval as James walk in pushing a cartful of fresh baked goodies to put up in the cafeteria.- ?

DAD: GOOD AFTERNOON EVERYONE.

RILEY: -and James is here too). Oh god. She covers her face- unfuckingbelievable!

MOM: -James please come sit next to her she is kinda trying to keep it cool and struggling.-

MOM: -At least drive your cart by her.-

DAD: -You sound astonishingly distressed, Riley. James is now on high alert, quickly glancing between everyone before resting eyes on Riley.- IS EVERYTHING ALRIGHT.

UNCLE BRO: Wanna take a seat riri

RILEY: you gonna make more jabs at me to tickle yourself or what?

DAD: -Riley, please. Shoots a concerned glance to Roxanne, wondering what could possibly be so upsetting right now.-

BRO: -hhhh. he gets out of his seat to go over to riley, reaching out to touch her arm... a little cautiously, to be honest.- Listen we dont gotta stick around here. 

BRO: We could... Go elsewhere. 

BRO: ... Maybe talk...

DAD: -watching this with his eyes. Derek you also look distressed. What the hullabaloo is going on??-

BRO: -HE'S REAL DISTRESSED JAMES BUT WHAT ELSE IS NEW-

DAD: -Well James won't object. He has pies, cake, and donuts to unload.-

UNCLE BRO: -He's not really helping-

UNCLE BRO: Nah just wanted to sit and chat try and help with some choices

RILEY: -pulls her arm away from him. she can't look at him, she can't tell him- about what? there's nothing to talk-- -her voice cracks and she sighs, looking like she's about to cry-

UNCLE BRO: Nevermind we can talk food later

DAD: -still trying to catch Roxanne's eye. He is subtle. The most stealt- ...- 

DAD: SEE TO IT THAT YOU ARE WELL, RILEY. PLEASE. -uncovering this beautiful blue velvet cake.-

BRO: Shit-- Riley... -eyeballs james and the cake- She dont want that shes not feeling well. 

BRO: ... -looks back at her- You dont want it right?

UNCLE BRO: -Holy shit he needs a piece of that-

DAD: -He wasn't exactly offering it being concerned for her like he was. But. It's here. He puts it up for display.-

UNCLE BRO: -He's gonna get a piece of that when less drama-

RILEY: no, i-- fuck. -she turns around and starts to hurry out of the room-

BRO: Riley-- -HHHHHH- 

BRO: -turns head to look at davenforth like YOU FOOL. YOU FUCKING FOOL. YOU ABSOLUTE GODDAMN BUFFOON. I'M GOING TO KILL YOU.-

UNCLE BRO: -He's used to it at this point. Catknife.jpg-

UNCLE BRO: Yo hey ro and jamie can you help me with somethin in the atrium

BRO: -THERE IS NO WHERE TO HIDE-

DAD: -gentlemen please...- DEPENDING ON THE NATURE OF THE REQUEST. I WOULD NOT BE OPPOSED TO OFFERING ASSISTANCE WHERE I CAN. -passive gazing at Derek.- UNCLE BRO: -He's trying to give you some privacy JEEZ- BRO: -grumps- (Subtle James.) -WHATEVER. he's out of here.- UNCLE BRO: I wanted to talk to you about lif real quick RILEY: -GOTTA GO FAST- ROXANNE: -She has been so god damn interested in this potato salad, damn who made it, its so much more incredible then the drama taking place around her.- DAD: -Roxanne, please... He turns his attention back to Daven. Continues to unload his pastry cart.- HOW PRIVATE IS THE MATTER. UNCLE BRO: Shes my girlfriend so pretty private

DAD: -pauses, surprised to learn this. Suddenly a good many facts seem to make sense to him.- I WAS NOT AWARE. BUT REGARDLESS, I WOULD NOT THINK TO BERATE A REQUEST FOR DISCRETION. OR THE URGENCY WHICH MAY FOLLOW SUIT. DAD: I AM AVALIABLE SPEAK AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE.

[transient-tutor]

-- practicalFamiliar [PF] began pestering transientTutor [TT] at 21:08 --

PF: I UNDERSTAND YOU HAVE BEEN GRANTED RELEASE FROM THE INFIRMARY.

TT: Oh yeah sure.

TT: I was in and out. No big deal.

PF: FORGIVE ME.

PF: PHYSICAL VIOLENCE AT THE BEHEST OF AN OFFICER TO A MEMBER OF HIS OWN DEPARTMENT SOUNDS LIKE A RATHER TREMENDOUS DEAL.

PF: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN INFANT, NO LESS.

TT: Well I had it comin or whatever.

TT: Definitely coulda picked better circumstances to do it though.

TT: Dove didnt need to see that shit.

PF: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WOULD STRIKING YOU DOWN HAVE BEEN BETTER. DESERVING OR OTHERWISE.

PF: YOU WILL NOT DOWNPLAY THE NATURE OF THE ACTION.

TT: Jesus. So demanding.

TT: I can make what I want out of it.

TT: But if itll make you feel any better I do think hes a lil bitch who made a lil bitch move.

PF: SUCH A COMMENT DOES VERY LITTLE TO REASSURE ME.

TT: Then I dunno what else to tell ya.

PF: IT ONLY MEANS THE ISSUE PERPETUATES. AND NOTHING HAS OR WILL BE RESOLVED.

PF: PARDON IF I GIVE VOICE TO MY FRUSTRATION.

TT: I do get it alright?

TT: But what am I supposed to do?

PF: I WILL ABSOLVE TO BITE MY TONGUE ON THIS MATTER.

TT: For fucking real though.

TT: Motherfucker rose out of the ocean and decked me in the face. No exaggerations.

TT: Like I squared up sure but its not as if I was egging him on. I just wanted him out of our business.

TT: Am I supposed to somehow resolve this peacefully by having a friendly lil chat with him? Somehow I dont think thats gonna fly.

TT: Or should I rat him out? What difference does that make? Everybody oughta know by now anyways.

TT: Unless you want me to spill my guts on how all this makes me feel or whatever.

TT: Because you really wanna know how this all makes me feel?

TT: Completely fucking powerless.

PF: THE SITUATION IS PRECARIOUS AT BEST.

PF: YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN FEELING TORN ASUNDER. POWERLESS AS YOU ARE PAINFULLY AWARE THAT YOUR WORDS WILL NOT BE HEARD. TRY AS YOU MIGHT.

PF: PROFESSIONALLY, I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW TO APPROACH THIS.

PF: PERSONALLY. THERE WOULD BE NO POINT.

PF: I CAN ONLY LISTEN.

TT: Why do I get the feeling this is some passive aggressive projecting shit?

TT: Not like I can say yeah hey Im an asshole who dont take advice. I cant get my shit straight no matter what anybody says. Nobody wants to hear that. Apologies arent gonna make up for it.

TT: You think I dont feel guilty? You think I dont wish I had done things the sensible way in the first fucking place?

TT: Im

TT: Fuck.

TT: I dont know whats wrong with me Jim.

TT: I dont know why I cant stop bein this way.

TT: Wish that bastard hit me just a little harder.

PF: IT IS ALRIGHT, DEREK.

PF: THE UNCERTAINTY FOR CLARIFICATION. NOT THE WISHFUL THINKING.

TT: Its not alright.

TT: I cant stop hurting people.

PF: YOUR NATURE IS AS IT STANDS, DEREK. HOWEVER, THE CONCLUSIONS THAT YOU HAVE DRAWN FOR YOURSELF ARE A FAR CRY FROM HARD FACT.

PF: THEY ARE MADE FROM A SINGULAR PERSPECTIVE AND LOGICALLY, THERE REALLY SHOULD BE MORE THAN ONE OPINION TO SUPPORT ANY CONCLUSION DRAWN FROM MERE THEORY.

TT: Pretty sure theres plenty to support the theory.

PF: I REITERATE.

PF: THAT DOES NOT MAKE IT TRUE. OR ABSOLUTE FOR THAT MATTER.

TT: But I

TT: Fuck

TT: I dont deserve this

PF: HOLD YOURSELF STEADY, DEREK.

PF: I AM STILL HERE.

TT: Why

PF: BECAUSE YOU DESERVE IT. AND IT IS IN DEFIANCE OF THE SAME FEELING WHICH TELLS YOUR MIND THAT YOU DO NOT.

PF: AGAINST ALL ODDS, I AM HERE TO PROVE THAT WHAT YOUR MIND SPEAKS IS NOT TRUE. AS TEMPTING AS IT IS TO BELIEVE IT.

PF: THE CONDITION OF YOUR LIVELIHOOD AND LIFE EXPERIENCES HAVE LEAD YOU TO ACCEPT IT AS TRUE. BUT HOW CAN IT, WHEN YOU HAVE NEVER FELT OTHERWISE?

PF: BUT IT IS ALRIGHT, DEREK. IT IS ALRIGHT TO FEEL UNCERTAIN OF YOURSELF AND IF YOU WOULD HAVE ME, I WOULD LIKE TO HELP YOU BATTLE THESE THOUGHTS POISONING YOUR RESOLVE.

PF: IT IS AN ILLNESS, DO YOU UNDERSTAND? THE SAME KIND OF CHEMICAL ILLNESS WHICH LEADS A COLD TO ATTACK THE BODY WHEN ONE IS EXPOSED TO THE ELEMENTS, CAN ALSO ATTACK THE MIND.

TT: Illness?

TT: You... really think thats whats going on?

PF: A PERSON DOES NOT NATURALLY FEEL AS THOUGH THEY DESERVE TO BE BEATEN FOR THEIR WRONG DOINGS, DEREK.

TT: Guess not.

TT: Suppose this is no time to argue about it neither.

PF: YOU ARE CORRECT.

TT: Should I...

TT: I dont know.

PF: ?

TT: Get

TT: Help?

PF: THERE IS NO SHAME IN SEEKING A DIAGNOSIS, NO.

PF: I WILL ASSIST YOU.

TT: Ok.

TT: Uh.

TT: Cool.

TT: Wouldnt really wanna deal with any of the other therapy folks.

PF: I WILL KEEP YOUR BEST INTERESTS IN MIND. THIS IS TRUE OF MY ATTITUDE AS A PROFESSIONAL AS WELL AS YOUR PERSONAL FRIEND.

TT: Ok.

TT: ...

TT: Thank you.

PF: DEREK.

PF: YOU ARE WELCOME.

TT: Shit.

TT: Dunno what Im supposed to say now.

TT: I mean.

TT: Nobodys ever...

TT: Man.

TT: This is hard.

PF: PLEASE CONSIDER THAT THE CONCEPT OF "NOBODY" IS ONE THAT IS MUTUALLY FAMILIARIZED.

PF: BUT FOR YOU, MY DOOR WILL ALWAYS BE OPEN.

TT: Guess Ill have to drop in sometime.

TT: What a pain.

PF: FROM MY EXPERIENCE, IT IS NOT SO BAD.

TT: Heh.

TT: For now I think I need to lie the fuck down.

PF: PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU DO.

PF: I WILL BE CHECKING WITH YOU VERY SOON.

PF: BY THE BY.

PF: RILEY IS ALREADY SHOWING PROOF OF PHENOMENAL WORK AS A VOLUNTEER.

PF: I REALLY THOUGHT YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW.

TT: Oh yeah?

TT: I knew she would.

PF: AS DID I.

PF: GET SOME REST, MY FRIEND.

TT: Thanks.

TT: Night James.

-- transientTutor [TT] ceased pestering practicalFamiliar [PF] at 01:35 --

[effluentbalatron-blog]

10:46] -- practicalFamiliar [PF] began pestering effluentBalatron [EB] at 22:46 -- [10:47] PF: HELLO JOHN. I WOULD LIKE TO BE THE FIRST TO CONVEY HOW PROUD I AM OF THE SUCCESS OF YOUR FIRST DEPARTMENT MEETING. [10:47] PF: YOU ARE TRULY COMING INTO YOUR OWN. [10:48] EB: oh! [10:48] EB: haha thanks dad. [10:49] EB: i just want to personally thank everybody for even showing up. [10:54] EB: maybe i will send them all gift baskets that say it. thanks for coming to my meeting! [10:54] PF: IT IS UNLIKELY THEY WOULD NOT. A GREAT DEAL OF THE PEOPLE CARE FOR THE DEPARTMENT. AND THE WELL-BEING OF THE SHIP AS A WHOLE. [10:54] PF: IT IS ONLY LOGICAL THEY WOULD WISH FOR SUCCESS. [10:54] PF: AND THEREFORE, THE HARD WORK WHICH GOES ALONGSIDE IT. [10:54] EB: yeah, you're right. i mean, me worrying about it was not really a reflection on them. [10:56] PF: YOU HAVE NO REASON TO BELIEVE YOUR CAPABILITIES WOULD NOT MEASURE UP TO THE NEEDS OF THE DEPARTMENT, JOHN. [10:56] PF: I HAVE PLENTY OF FAITH IN YOU. [10:56] EB: well, it went well! so that's all that matters! haha. [11:05] PF: ONE SMALL STEP FOR A MAN. ONE GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND. [11:06] EB: i am really proud of everybody for making suggestions and stuff. [11:09] PF: AS AM I. [11:09] PF: IT WAS QUITE EVIDENT FROM THE LOOK ON YOUR FACE. [11:09] EB: where do you think i got it from? hahah. [11:16] PF: I COULD NOT BE PROUDER OF YOU, SON. [11:16] PF: HOWEVER. ANY TIME I AM CONVINCED OF THE FACT, I END WITH MY FOOT GRATUITOUSLY PLACED IN MY MOUTH. [11:18] EB: thanks dad. [11:18] EB: i am proud of you too. i think you're going to do great in the counseling department. [11:19] EB: but you already know that and have plans a through z figured out. lol. [11:19] PF: I ONLY DO MY BEST, SON. THE SAME AS YOU. [11:21] EB: yeah. [11:26] PF: HM. [11:26] PF: YOU ARE LESS TALKATIVE THAN USUAL TODAY. [11:26] PF: IS SOMETHING THE MATTER? [11:30] EB: it's just been kind of a crazy week for me. [11:30] EB: i'm really tired, haha. [11:31] PF: YOU MUST GET YOUR REST, SON. YOU ARE NO USE TO ANYONE EXHAUSTED. [11:31] EB: yeah, you're right. [11:31] EB: i don't really mean like sleepy tired though. [11:34] PF: WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPEAK ABOUT IT? [11:39] EB: well, maybe about one aspect. [11:39] EB: i had a fullblown meltdown on dirk the other night. it was the first time that has happend in a long time. [11:39] EB: and after the meeting i was really, really anxious. [11:41] PF: I FIND NO ISSUE WITH EITHER OF THESE QUIPS OF INFORMATION. [11:41] PF: ARE YOU ANXIOUS CURRENTLY? [11:41] EB: i mean i kind of have issues with it. [11:41] EB: i thought i was past this stuff. [11:42] EB: at least the worst of it. [11:42] PF: PLEASE EXPAND ON YOUR THOUGHTS, SON. [11:44] EB: my brain crud.. [11:44] EB: it didn't bother me for a really long time and suddenly it's like hello! i am here to mess up your life! [11:58] PF: THERE ARE PLENTY OF EXPLANATIONS FOR WHY THIS MAY BE OCCURING. [12:00] PF: IT IS NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF. [12:00] PF: OR TO SPEAK ABOUT. [12:04] EB: i'm not ashamed. [12:04] EB: i've never really been ashamed of it. [12:04] PF: BUT YOU ARE FINDING IT DIFFICULT TO TALK ABOUT. [12:05] EB: um.... [12:05] EB: well... [12:05] EB: yes. [12:08] PF: IT IS ALRIGHT. [12:08] PF: I HAVE NO PLANS TO TAKE MY EXIT ANY TIME SOON. YOU MAY TAKE AS MUCH TIME AS YOU NEED. [12:08] EB: i know. [12:10] EB: i dunno, dad. some stuff happened but i just don't understand why it's bothering me so much. [12:10] EB: people can die and terrible things can happen, and that doesn't bother me but relationship issues do? [12:11] EB: and now people are finding out about it after i have already been here a year. [12:11] EB: it's a little awkward. [12:14] PF: THERE IS NO NEED FOR PEOPLE TO DISCOVER FACTS ABOUT YOURSELF IF YOU ARE NOT COMFORTABLE DISCLOSING THEM. [12:14] EB: that's what i thought. i still think that is true. [12:15] PF: WHAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP ISSUES ARE YOU EXPERIENCING? THAT HAS PERHAPS TRIGGERED THESE RESPONSES YOU ARE REFERRING TO. [12:17] EB: can we not go into that? [12:17] PF: THAT IS FINE. [12:17] EB: thanks dad. [12:20] EB: you know, after the meeting when i was feeling anxious i went and played piano. [12:20] EB: riley's mom reminded me i could do that. [12:20] EB: it helped. [12:36] PF: THAT IS EXCELLENT TO HEAR AND I AM VERY PLEASED TO HEAR THAT HER RECOMMENDATION IS ALREADY PROVING EFFECTIVE. [12:38] EB: i mean i already kind of knew it worked. :P [12:39] EB: but i forgot to actually go do it. [12:40] EB: i hope it works for other people too. i think it will.

[06:35] PF: THERE IS NO DOUBT ABOUT IT. I FIND HER POINT ABOUT COMMUNICATION NOT FUNCTIONING THE SAME FROM PERSON TO PERSON VERY ACCURATE.

[06:35] EB: i think she'll be a great counseler.

[06:36] EB: she seemed a little shy at first but that did not seem to stop her!

[06:36] EB: you guys are friends, right?

[06:36] PF: I FEEL SIMILARLY. IT COULD BE A MATTER OF GAINING HER BEARINGS BEFORE GOING WITH THE FLOW, SORT TO SPEAK.

[06:36] PF: THAT IS TRUE. WE ARE FRIENDS.

[06:39] EB: yeah well i mean given that she was just locked in her room before, it has to be an adjustment.

[06:43] PF: I WOULD AGREE. THE WHOLE ARRANGEMENT SEEMED UNNECESSARY. NOT TO MENTION UNFAIR FOR THE DURATION OF TIME IT TOOK TO CORRECT IT.

[06:43] PF: I AM PERSONALLY GLAD TO SEE HER GAINING THE COURAGE TO VENTURE AND MINGLE. OFFER HER IDEAS.

[06:43] PF: HER INPUT IS FAR MORE VALUABLE THAN SHE REALIZES.

[06:44] EB: yeah! i think so too.

[06:55] PF: FROM HERE, IT ONLY ENSURES FURTHER IMPROVEMENT.

[06:56] EB: i was really impressed with everybody, honestly.

[06:56] EB: we're going to be the best department on the whole ship. :)

[06:58] EB: a little friendly competition never hurt, right?

[07:00] PF: SHOULD IT FAN YOUR ENTHUSIASM, BY ALL MEANS. YOU HAVE MY SUPPORT.

[07:34] EB: hahhahaha. fan.

[07:34] EB: i have wind powers.

[07:34] EB: get it?

[07:37] PF: THIS WORD PLAY HAS TRULY BLOWN MY MIND.

[07:37] PF: CONSIDER ME FLABBERGUSTED.

[07:44] EB: well, that was easy.

[07:44] EB: you could say it was a breeze.

[08:28] PF: EXCELLENTLY DRAFTED, SON.

[08:34] EB: ;jkdlfsjlkdasd.

[08:34] EB: dad!

[08:34] EB: haha!

[08:35] PF: THE WINNING POINT GOES TO YOURS TRULY.

[08:36] EB: as usual. but i ain't mad.

[08:36] EB: just a little.....

[08:36] EB: winded.

[09:35] PF: SECOND-WINDED, IT SEEMS.

[10:15] EB: yeah well, a good conversation is the best medicine.

[10:15] EB: besides actual medicine.

[10:16] PF: I DISAGREE. IT IS ONLY THE SECOND BEST MEDICINE.

[10:16] PF: SANS ACTUAL MEDICINE.

[10:16] PF: THIS IS MY PROFESSIONAL OPINION.

[10:17] EB: oh, right. laughter.

[10:17] EB: how could i forget that?

[11:04] PF: NOT VERY READILY, I SHOULD HOPE.

[11:04] EB: i would never bring shame to our family by becoming serious.

[11:05] EB: don't worry, dad.

[11:05] EB: anyways, i think i will actually get some rest now.

[11:05] EB: i'll see you soon. :)

[11:06] PF: GET SOME REST, SON.

[11:06] PF: I WILL BE CHECKING WITH YOU SOON.

[11:07] EB: hehe, okay. i guess i will have to live with that.

[11:07] EB: good night.

[11:07] PF: GOOD NIGHT.

[robynsaint]

[10:12] -- robynSaint [RS] began pestering practicalFamiliar [PF] at 22:12 --

[10:13] RS: hey.

[10:13] RS: jodie get you to hate me yet?

[10:15] PF: HELLO, RILEY.

[10:15] PF: I... DO NOT UNDERSTAND THIS QUESTION.

[10:16] RS: you're friends with her right?

[10:16] RS: you must have heard how our conversation went.

[10:19] PF: IT IS LIKELY, I SUPPOSE.

[10:19] PF: BUT IF I AM HONEST, THE TOPIC WAS NOT DWELLED OVER FOR VERY LONG.

[10:20] RS: oh.

[10:21] RS: maybe...i should talk to you in person.

[10:22] PF: YOU ARE WELCOME, OF COURSE.

[10:22] PF: ANY PLACE YOU WOULD LIKE TO MEET?

[10:23] RS: somewhere i can like. puke easily if i need to.

[10:23] RS: right. i'm pregnant. let's get that out of the way.

[10:23] RS: or did derek already tell you? whatever.

[10:23] RS: doesn't matter.

[10:23] PF: YES.

[10:24] PF: MY QUARTERS SHOULD SUFFICE.

[10:26] RS: okay. on my way.

[10:26] RS: warning: i look like shit. couldn't be assed to make myself presentable in any way.

[10:29] PF: TRUST ME WHEN I SAY THAT YOUR APPEARANCE IS A SUPERFICIAL CONCERN.

[10:30] RS: okay.

[10:30] RS: here i go.

[10:30] RS: wait, hold on.

[10:30] RS: no, false alarm. we're good.

[10:30] RS: here i come.

[10:41] PF: IT IS NO ISSUE.

[10:41] PF: PLEASE TAKE YOUR TIME.

[10:41] DAD: *And around his room James waits, fiddling with concern for Riley at his communicator. And not just her. So many people were up in arms stressed...*

[10:41] RILEY: -soon enough, there's a knock at his door. standing there is an unkempt riley, hair a mess and in the laziest clothes imaginable-

[10:47] DAD: *Ah. Concern for the mother-in-waiting only increases as James answers the door. But none of that really shows, he's just letting her in.* PLEASE MAKE YOURSELF COMFORTABLE.

[10:47] DAD: WOULD YOU CARE FOR A SERVING OF MINT TEA? IT SHOULD AID FEELINGS OF NAUSEA. *He's just worried, Riley.*

[10:48] RILEY: kay. -she takes that opportunity to just...flop down on his couch- yeah, i'll take anything right about now. this little magnificently beautiful fucker has it out for my insides.

[10:50] DAD: *moves off to serve the tea. Of course, he's prepared.* ANYTHING LIGHT TO EAT?

[10:50] RILEY: i probably should. that's what i'm supposed to do but the idea of putting anything in my mouth just...bluh.

[10:51] DAD: PERFECTLY UNDERSTANDABLE. *only allows himself to sit when Riley is served her tea.* PLEASE ALERT ME IF YOU NEED ANYTHING ELSE.

[10:52] RILEY: -sits up for the tea- thanks.

[10:52] RILEY: -she takes it and sips it slowly, sighing-

[10:52] RILEY: so.

[10:52] RILEY: what's up.

[11:00] DAD: ...WHAT IS UP? *inquires, more like to himself. He's not very sure actually.* ARE YOU REFERRING TO CURRENT EVENTS?

[11:01] RILEY: i don't know james, whatever's up. what's new? -sips-

[11:06] DAD: *pauses heavily. He's not programmed for conversation about himself.* .........

[11:06] DAD: I AM PLEASED... TO REPORT THAT JOHN HAS HEALED ENOUGH FOR A WHEELCHAIR. AND IS ONLY GROWING BETTER AS WE SPEAK.

[11:07] RILEY: -she is genuinely interested and happy for him- really? -sits up a little and smiles- fuck. that's so good!

[11:07] RILEY: your guy's probably the toughest guy i know.

[11:09] DAD: THANK YOU. *dips his head* I NEED NOT MENTION HIS OWN STUBBORN REFUSAL TO KEEP TO AN INFIRMARY BED FOR LONG.

[11:10] RILEY: just furthers my point.

[11:10] RILEY: nothing can stop him. :)

[11:20] DAD: *cracks a smile, as tired as it is.* IF ONLY THAT WERE THE REALITY. IT IS A PLEASANT THOUGHT NEVERTHELESS. THANK YOU.

[11:25] RILEY: of course.

[11:25] RILEY: been kind of a stressful month or whatever, hasn't it.

[11:54] DAD: IT IS UNFORTUNATE TO SAY. *crosses his leg with a soft sigh* BUT WE MUST PRESS FORWARD. AS DIFFICULT AS IT IS.

[11:54] DAD: YOU ARE NOT OVERLY STRESSED, ARE YOU? *brows furrowed* PROFESSIONALLY, IT WOULD BE CAUSE ENOUGH FOR ME TO GROW CONCERNED.

[11:54] RILEY: -she shrugs- eh.

[11:54] RILEY: that's bullshit the answer is actually yes.

[11:54] RILEY: but i'm okay.

[12:13] DAD: *nods and sighs* IT WAS INEVITABLE. THE... REUNION.

[12:14] DAD: NOTHING CAN DETER JODIE FROM A DECISION.

[12:16] RILEY: tell me about it. -shakes her head and smiles a little- that's jodie.

[12:16] RILEY: hey.

[12:17] RILEY: how do you know her?

[12:34] DAD: *falls quiet, unsure once again. On how to proceed. Talking about these things were just an awkward affair for James.* WE WERE ROMANTICALLY INVOLVED YEARS AND YEARS AGO. SO MUCH TIME HAS PASSED. I HAD NO ASSUMPTION THAT I WOULD EVER CROSS PATHS WITH HER AGAIN.

[12:34] DAD: BUT SHE IS HERE NOW. I AM... ASTONISHED. AND GRATEFUL. THAT SHE IS.

[12:37] RILEY: -she's surprised to hear this- no shit? damn. what are the chances?

[03:59] DAD: *shakes his head* IT WAS QUITE A LONG TIME AGO. NOT RELEVANT TO THE PRESENT.

[04:01] RILEY: it's probably selfish of me to hope that maybe we can be friends again. especially at this stage.

[04:02] RILEY: she was my best friend. for a very long time.

[04:05] DAD: I UNDERSTAND WHERE THE DESIRE COMES FROM. I SUPPOSE...

[04:05] DAD: GIVEN THAT IT IS JODIE. *speaks carefully, his fingers fiddling absently with a lighter from his front pocket.* SHE WILL SEEK RETRIBUTION. THE MEANS TO VALIDATE HER OWN STANCE AND FEELINGS ON THE SUBJECT.

[04:05] DAD: WHICH IS EQUALLY UNDERSTANDABLE ON HER PART.

[04:05] DAD: I CAN ONLY WAGER ALL OF THIS AS A GUESS.

[04:07] RILEY: -sighs and nods- you're right. that's just like her. i just hope she doesn't beat up on derek too much.

[04:13] DAD: SUFFICE TO SAY. SHE IS NOT OBLIGATED TO ENJOY HIS COMPANY. NOR IS SHE OBLIGATED TO BEHAVE POLITELY TOWARDS HIM. *rotates lighter, frowning a little*

[04:13] DAD: I ALSO DOUBT THAT SHE WILL CARE FOR ALL OF THIS.

[04:13] DAD: YOU MUST BE PATIENT. AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT AT THE ROOT OF HER FURY. SHE IS HURT.

[04:15] RILEY: no, she's not. you're right. i don't think she needs to be less upset. i think she should be upset, i just...am hoping for the least collateral damage as possible.

[04:15] RILEY: for something i did wrong.

[04:16] RILEY: she can come at me all she wants. i'm not going to protest.

[04:16] RILEY: i'll take it. i deserve it.

[04:16] RILEY: but nobody else does.

[04:21] DAD: *fixing her with the look of concern now. The frown of sympathy.* THIS BURDEN IS NOT YOUR OWN, RILEY. NEITHER WAS THE DECISION TO REKINDLE YOUR MARRIAGE.

[04:21] DAD: REMEMBER TO THINK OF YOURSELF AND DEREK AS A UNIT. IT HELPS NO ONE TO ISOLATE YOURSELF AND YOUR PROBLEMS. YOU HAVE SEEN WHAT IT DOES.

[04:25] RILEY: -looks up at him tiredly. shit. that hits hard- yeah. it just...it doesn't feel right. having him share the blame for all of this. i want to protect him as much as i can from all the shitty stuff.

[04:27] DAD: HAVING THE WORDS SPOKEN ALOUD. I THINK HE WOULD HAVE SAID THE SAME FOR HIS OWN DECISIONS. *says. Might as well be blunt.* THIS DOES NOT AND WILL NOT ONLY AFFECT YOU.

[04:31] RILEY: yeah. -takes more sips of her tea- hate how stuff works that way. but i guess that's part of the punishment, making your loved ones suffer too.

[04:36] DAD: IS IT PUNISHMENT?

[04:36] RILEY: i mean, yeah.

[04:37] RILEY: the domino effect.

[04:51] DAD: ONLY IF YOU SEE IT THAT WAY. *expression softer*

[04:52] RILEY: do you want me to like.

[04:52] RILEY: list out all the people that are having a hard time because of a decision i made?

[04:54] DAD: IF IT WOULD HELP PUT THINGS INTO PERSPECTIVE. *goes back to rotating the lighter around in his hand.* I DO NOT MIND AT ALL.

[04:57] RILEY: for you, yeah.

[04:57] RILEY: we want to go all the way bag to the Big One or just stick with the most recent?

[04:58] DAD: WHATEVER YOU DEEM MOST APPROPRIATE. *James and his endless patience.*

[05:05] RILEY: wow. was not expecting that. okay. guess we can just dive into the relevant one.

[05:05] RILEY: -takes a deep breath-

[05:14] DAD: *sits there, quiet but attentive*

[05:14] RILEY: so, me endlessly flirting with derek despite both of us being in a relationship caused him to cheat on roxanne, which fucked her up. russet lost the opportunity of a chance at having parents who were with each other.

[05:15] RILEY: i'm pretty sure dirk and dave probably aren't even thrilled that me and derek are back together. not like it makes much difference to them.

[05:15] RILEY: it definitely didn't help dirk and derek's relationship at all. shit.

[05:15] RILEY: i fucked up jodie, as you can see.

[05:16] RILEY: hurt her real bad. brought up all her abandonment issues again. even though she's well into her forties. jesus.

[05:16] RILEY: i have roxy pissed at me too.

[05:16] RILEY: i'm halfway certain roxanne probably relapsed because of me.

[05:16] RILEY: is that enough for you?

[05:16] RILEY: a domino effect.

[05:18] DAD: *inclines his head towards her* BUT NOW I ASK. DID REFLECTING ON ALL OF THIS STOP YOUR DECISION? IT DID NOT.

[05:18] DAD: WHY.

[05:18] RILEY: because i'm a piece of shit?

[05:19] DAD: RILEY.

[05:19] RILEY: james.

[05:21] DAD: THIS IS THE MENTALITY YOU STAND WITH DEREK WITH.

[05:21] DAD: WHAT YOU CALL YOURSELF. YOU CALL YOUR RELATIONSHIP. THE TIME YOU COMMIT TO HIM AND HE HIMSELF. FOR FINDING YOU WORTH ALL THE WHILE.

[05:22] RILEY: -well shit-

[05:22] RILEY: -motherfucker.-

[05:23] DAD: CLEARLY. IF YOU ARE NOT WORTH THE TIME. NEITHER IS HE. DO YOU NOT REALIZE THE KIND OF ENERGY YOU ARE PERPETUATING?

[05:23] DAD: AND IT IS NOT YOU WHO SUFFERS.

[05:23] DAD: IT WILL BE DEREK. AND IT WILL BE YOUR CHILD.

[05:26] RILEY: -the expression on her face fades. she looks...very guilty.-

[05:26] RILEY: fuck.

[05:32] DAD: THE WORLD DOES NOT STAND TO OPPOSE YOU. IT NEVER HAS.

[05:32] DAD: I WOULD SUGGEST YOU STOP USING IT AS A CRUTCH TO KEEP YOURSELF FROM DEALING WITH THESE PROBLEMS.

[05:32] DAD: YOU HAVE MADE MISTAKES. THIS IS TRUE. BUT IS IT ALL YOU ARE CAPABLE OF? IS IT ALL YOU WANT TO BE CAPABLE OF?

[05:32] DAD: IF SO. YOU ARE DOING A MARVELOUS JOB.

[05:36] RILEY: -her face grows red and she can't stand to look at him right now. she feels kind of like a child standing in the shame of something done very wrong.-

[05:38] RILEY: i'm. uh.

[05:38] RILEY: you're right.

[05:38] RILEY: -it's like a whole new perspective is opening up for her, it's just a painful one-

[05:40] DAD: *he exhales, fixing his posture as he does so.* ...I CARE FOR YOU RILEY. I DO.

[05:40] DAD: IT IS WHY I CAN NOT STAND IDLY BY AND ALLOW YOU TO LOSE YOURSELF IN THESE THOUGHTS. THEY ARE SELF DESTRUCTIVE AS THEY ARE CYCLING.

[05:40] DAD: AND ABOVE ALL. THEY ARE NOT TRUE.

[05:41] RILEY: -rubs the back of her neck- jesus.

[05:42] RILEY: how do you like...get out of it? this shit attitude i have.

[05:43] DAD: *twiddles his thumbs, feeling a little meek* CATCH YOURSELF. TELLING YOURSELF THESE NEGATIVE THINGS.

[05:44] DAD: REACH OUT TO THOSE YOU CARE FOR. REMEMBER THAT... YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN ALL OF THIS. AND YOU ARE NOT LEAVING THEM ALONE.

[05:50] RILEY: -listening to that just brings tears to her eyes because that's not hard to do right now. and if she weren't pregnant, she'd be crying anyway- yeah.

[05:50] RILEY: okay why the fuck are you always right all the time?

[05:51] RILEY: it's weird. it's fucking weird.

[05:51] RILEY: and it's convenient.

[05:53] DAD: *cracks a smile then... but it just makes him look sad and tired. He moves to sit next to her, setting a hand on her shoulder.* IT HAS ALWAYS HELPED TO HAVE SOMEONE.

[05:56] RILEY: weird how that works. kind of bullshit if you ask me.

[06:01] DAD: HM. THEN I WILL NOT ASK YOU. *smiles more warmly and squeezes her shoulder*

[07:25] RILEY: nice. -kind of laughs a little and looks over at him- deal.

[phantasmatrappings-blog]

RUTH: -Ruth has presently found herself standing in a hallway in the resistance base, staring at a closet doorway with some intensity.- DAD: *Then maybe it was a good idea for James to emerge from the ship after all. He crosses paths with the small seer woman as he takes a stroll, stopping in his tracks as he spots her. His addressment of her happens very abruptly.* HELLO MISS LALONDE. RUTH: -She takes several seconds to turn toward him, and then several more to realize this seems to be happening in the present, based on the lack of forward motion in the conversation.- James. DAD: *tips his hat to her, disregarding the strange pauses in her movements.* IT HAS BEEN SOME TIME SINCE WE HAVE CROSSED PATHS. BUT I DID NOT DOUBT IT WOULD BE OUR LAST. *offers a hand out for her to shake* HOW DO YOU FAIR? RUTH: As much as usual, I imagine. -she hesitates again before reaching for his hand, taking it gently. Yes, this seems real enough.- RUTH: I am not the best at keeping track of my present state. DAD: THAT IS NO ISSUE. I UNDERSTAND YOUR EXPERIENCES ARE OVERWHELMING EVEN AT THE BEST OF TIMES. *He's always been curious, honestly. But not enough to be so rude as to ask about details.* RUTH: How are things going? RUTH: On the ship. DAD: AS EXPECTED. DAD: IT HAS NOT BEEN WITHOUT TURBULENCE. *looks away* OR LOSS. RUTH: ... Right. RUTH: Sometimes I forget these things are new to everyone else. RUTH: I'm sure it was difficult. DAD: *He knows she doesn't mean to sound so removed from the gravity of the situation. Logically, anyway.* IT HAS BEEN EXCEEDINGLY DIFFICULT. DAD: BUT WE MANAGE NEVERTHELESS. *stern* RUTH: That is all I can hope for. RUTH: But I cannot help but notice that did not sound especially personal an answer. DAD: I DO NOT FOLLOW. RUTH: I cannot shake the feeling that the Unbreakable Union is collecting an entire group of people that is all too good at selflessness. RUTH: But then, I suppose that's why I'm rooting for you. RUTH: How are /you/ doing, James? DAD: *This was one tricky dame.* PREFORMING TO THE BEST OF MY ABILITIES. AS ANYONE IN MY POSITION WOULD. *That's an answer, right?* RUTH: Fair enough. I suppose I'll let it slide. RUTH: If only because interrogating one in a hallway does not count as appropriate host behavior. DAD: *nods, decidedly agreeing with her. He would know all about being a good host and having manners and such.* RUTH: I realize this may ultimately come across as redundant, RUTH: But is there anything you'd like to talk about? DAD: YES. ROXANNE. DAD: SHE IS DOING VERY WELL. RUTH: ... You think so too? DAD: AFFIRMATIVE. WE RECENTLY CELEBRATED ROXY'S MARRIAGE TO CAPTAIN AMPORA. *Which James is sure she knows all about already.* SHE WAS BESIDE HERSELF WITH PRIDE AND HAPPINESS. RUTH: -Oh, right. She forgot that was a recent thing, too.- I'm glad. RUTH: She deserves more than some of that. RUTH: We, also... RUTH: May have talked. DAD: MAY. DAD: *As opposed to maybe not.* RUTH: I am pretty sure it happened. RUTH: What I can remember went well, bumbling as it may have been. DAD: THEN I AM FAIRLY SURE SHE MUST HAVE BEEN PLEASED WITH THE OUTCOME. DAD: I AM GLAD TO HEAR OF IT. RUTH: -she sighs a long, tight breath.- Me, too. RUTH: Russet is also incredibly adorable. DAD: *he pauses, also relaxing. He hadn't realized how tense he was becoming.* THAT SHE IS. DAD: SHE HAS BEEN LEARNING HER ALPHABET. RUTH: And her numbers. RUTH: She can count to thirty-seven. RUTH: -she's really glad she can remember that.- DAD: SHE IS LEARNING AT A PHENOMINAL RATE. I AM NOT SURE WHAT I PERSONALLY WOULD HAVE DONE IF THE SAME HAD APPLIED TO JOHN OR JANE. RUTH: I can only imagine the most appropriate course of action for any respectable father. RUTH: That's you, by the way. DAD: THANK YOU. DAD: RESPECTABLE FATHER IS A TITLE A MAN COULD HOPE TO STRIVE FOR WHEN HE COMMITS HIMSELF TO THE ENDEAVOR. RUTH: Okay, when you put it like that, the compliment sounds much more underwhelming than I intended. RUTH: You'll have to forgive me. My experience with such things as "good parenting" and "respectable fatherhood" are pretty much in the negatives. RUTH: But I... definitely admire you. RUTH: -looks around awkwardly- I'm sorry, it has been an unusually emotional set of days for me. DAD: ...YOU SEEM- *he stops there, collecting himself and nodding.* I UNDERSTAND. RUTH: ...Things are going to go back to being difficult soon. In some predictable, and some unpredictable ways. DAD: WE CAN ONLY PREPARE OURSELVES TO MEET HOWEVER THESE EVENTS MANIFEST. DAD: YOUR INSIGHT, ALTHOUGH INCREDIBLY HELPFUL, IS NOT WHAT I BELIEVE TO BE THE DEFINITIVE MAP OF THINGS TO COME. DAD: I WOULD PREFER NOT TO RELY ON IT. AS I HAVE, UP UNTIL RECENTLY. RUTH: No, you're right enough. RUTH: It wasn't ever my place to have an active hand in shaping things. RUTH: My limitations are many. RUTH: I think it's too late now for me to envy that sort of willpower. RUTH: But whatever you feel to be best, I think that is what you should do. DAD: I ONLY WISH THERE WERE SOMETHING I COULD DO FOR YOU. RUTH: -that surprises her a little, even when things shouldn't.- You're doing plenty for me. If only in an indirect sense. RUTH: But I appreciate the sentiment. RUTH: If you really wanted to do me a favor, even though you were going to do this anyway, I would only ask you to keep an eye on Roxanne for me. DAD: *tilts his head, rather curious. But then nods, stern as a brick.* SHE AND RUSSET WILL BE KEPT SAFE. DAD: IF I AM TO HAVE ANY SAY IN IT. RUTH: Thanks. DAD: *She just seems so sad to James. Distant. His impulse is to reach out and gently set a hand on her shoulder.* RUTH: -She doesn't move, and she takes a breath. Mostly, she understands why. Even if she can't see intentions, she can see actions clearly enough to know him. She just isn't sure how to return the sentiment, though her brows knit slightly.- RUTH: You're a good friend, too, James. DAD: I CAN ONLY CONTINUE DOING SO. DAD: AND ASK WITH THE UTMOST SINCERITY. DAD: WOULD YOU CARE FOR SOME CAKE? RUTH: ... That. RUTH: Is an incredibly tempting and timely offer. RUTH: I would actually love some cake. DAD: *smiles at that and then offers his arm out to her.* I AM WILLING TO PROVIDE AN ESCORT TO THE COMMON ROOM. RUTH: I, too, am willing to accept. -this is almost silly but nice. she likes that mixture of things, and it isn't so difficult to accept his arm and use it as another anchor to the present. Sometimes, like today, it is just a little easier to be herself. After yesterday, she has a feeling she knows why.-

[coltishdaedalian-blog]

[12:36] -- coltishDaedalian [CD] began trolling practicalFamiliar [PF] at 00:36 --

[12:36] CD: } --> E%cuse [12:37] CD: } --> Me [12:42] PF: SALUTATIONS, STRANGER. I DO NOT BELIEVE I RECOGNIZE THE ADDRESS OF THIS DESIGNATED HANDLE. [12:43] PF: INTRODUCE YOURSELF, IF YOU WOULD PLEASE. [12:43] CD: } --> Right [12:43] CD: } --> I was going to do that [12:43] CD: } --> I was merely testing the waters first to see if you were still awake [12:43] CD: } --> Now that I have confirmed you awake I will presently follow with my introduction [12:44] CD: } --> Official title, Ma%inist, engineering consultant [12:44] CD: } --> Daelos Zahhak if you prefer to be familiar [12:47] PF: FAMILIARITY IS A NOUN PRESENT IN MY OWN HANDLE. HOWEVER, I WILL CHOOSE TO REMAIN CURT AND PROFESSIONAL REGARDLESS. [12:47] PF: YOU HAVE CONTACTED THE LINE OF JAMES EGBERT. SERVICEMAN ABOARD THE UU. [12:47] PF: HOW DO YOU DO THIS EVENING, MISTER ZAHHAK? [12:47] PF: DID YOU REQUIRE SOMETHING OF ME? [12:47] CD: } --> Yes [12:47] CD: } --> Pancakes [12:47] CD: } --> Actually I was wondering if you were still on duty [12:52] PF: MY SHIFT OF DUTY IS NOT DUE TO START FOR ANOTHER TWO HOURS, UNFORTUNATELY. [12:52] PF: HOWEVER, THERE IS NOTHING PREVENTING FROM PROVIDING A REQUEST FOR A WHOLESOME BREAKFAST ON MY PART. [12:52] CD: } --> Wait [12:52] PF: IF YOU WOULD BE SO KIND SO AS TO PROVIDE DIRECTIONS TO YOUR QUARTERS FOR THE PURPOSE OF A DELIVERY. [12:52] CD: } --> One moment [12:52] CD: } --> I apologize [12:53] CD: } --> I did not realize what time it was [12:53] CD: } --> Oh dear [12:55] PF: IF IT IS ALL THE SAME, I DO NOT FIND MYSELF DETERRED BY THE HOUR, SIR. [12:57] CD: } --> I cannot ask you to sacriice your free time to prepare breakfast for me [12:57] CD: } --> Normally I would have no qualms with such a thing [12:57] CD: } --> However [12:57] CD: } --> I do not deserve these e%tra pancakes [12:59] PF: AS THE CHEF EXPENDING HIS VALUABLE TIME AND RESOURCES, I PROPOSE THAT YOU ARE IN NO POSITION TO PROTEST ONES' WORTHINESS OVER MORNING DELICACIES. [12:59] PF: IS THERE A SPECIFIC MANNER YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DISH COOKED? [01:01] CD: } --> Why are you so insistent [01:01] CD: } --> And not asleep [01:01] PF: FOR THE SIMPLE REASONING THAT DUTY CALLS, MY GOOD SIR. [01:01] PF: I SHALL ARRIVE POST-HASTE. [01:02] CD: } --> I [01:02] CD: } --> Ok [01:02] CD: } --> Wait [01:03] CD: } --> I have not given you directions to my quarters yet [01:03] PF: IF YOU WOULD PLEASE. [01:04] CD: } --> *And he does. This is so surreal. For the most part he assumes it is a dream brought on by his inebriation* [01:06] PF: *In about 25 minutes, Daelos will hear a stern knock at the door. Outside will stand a tall, professionally dressed man of human Korean descent, holding a large wrapped dish in his arms. It still smells hot and full of buttermilky goodness.* [01:12] CD: } --> *It takes Daelos a little while to answer the door. He has a fairly high tolerance for the stuff he has been smoking but he has been smoking vigorously over a period of many hours. Walking is not e%actly his greatest talent at the best of times either. When he answers the door it is very obvious that he does not remember who this is. Until the  pancake smell hits him. Then he remembers* [01:12] CD: } --> Oh [01:12] CD: } --> Thank [01:12] CD: } --> Come [01:12] CD: } --> Come in [01:12] CD: } --> *Steps aside, mystified* [01:16] PF: *Many troll folk have a number of strange quirks about them and James is in no position to judge any of them. He simply raises the tray to balance it under one palm before tipping the fedora balanced above his head towards the large blueblooded troll.* GOOD EVENING, SIR. [01:16] PF: JAMES EGBERT, PRESENT AND PUNCTUAL. [01:16] PF: IT IS AN HONOR TO BE ALLOWED ENTRYWAY INTO YOUR PLACE OF LIVING. *and takes the tray, only to step smartly right past the door* [01:26] CD: } --> *This fellow is remarkably put together. As soon as he begins, Daelos realizes it was a mistake to let this human into his block. His block is very untidy. There are unfinished projects, bits of scrap metal and towels everywhere. Nyalah's side is worse if possible. Normally he would have his servants clean up after him, but he sent them away as their presence was grating on him.* [01:27] CD: } --> *He at least has the decency to block the view of the pile he has bene lazing around in as he speaks* [01:27] CD: } --> Your determination to complete my order is baffling [01:28] CD: } --> But appreciated [01:28] CD: } --> Feel free to sit if.....yes there is a st001 here [01:31] PF: *Nods sternly. This man is nothing but business.* YOUR HOSPITALITY IS APPRECIATED, MISTER ZAHHAK. [01:31] PF: IF YOU WOULD DIRECT AN AREA TO REST THE TRAY UPON. [01:39] CD: } --> Ah [01:39] CD: } --> Um [01:39] CD: } --> *sweeps some stuff off his desk onto the f100r* [01:39] CD: } --> That will suffice [02:06] PF: *James can't exactly say he approves of just tossing things to the ground. It really looks very messy. He attempts to suppress the urge to offer to pick up after the troll, even after he sets the pancake tray down.* [02:06] PF: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU REQUIRE OF ME? [02:07] CD: } --> These pancakes [02:07] CD: } --> Smell lovely [02:07] CD: } --> Yet no, I have already taken up [02:07] CD: } --> Time [02:08] CD: } --> *precariously wobbles over to paw at the container* [02:14] PF: THANK YOU. IT IS AN OLD FAMILY BRAND RECIPE. *hands tucked neatly behind himself as he observes Daelos shuffling over. James decides to make a mental note to check on this poor fellow soon. He appears to be a mess in more than one way.* [02:14] PF: ...SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY FURTHER ASSISTANCE, FEEL FREE TO FORWARD ANOTHER SUCH MESSAGE IN MY DIRECTION. [02:14] PF: I WOULD BE MOST OBLIGED. [02:17] CD: } --> I cannot imagine why you feel that way [02:17] CD: } --> Literally if [02:18] CD: } --> Someone asked me to make pancakes for them when it was not my job to do so there would be a frightening [02:18] CD: } --> Keruffle [02:18] CD: } --> About it [02:18] CD: } --> *rambles* [02:18] CD: } --> Yet once again [02:18] CD: } --> Appreciated [02:18] CD: } --> And smelling nice [02:18] CD: } --> Nice-smelling [02:21] PF: *simply blinks at this rather well-articulated, rambly fellow. James is beginning to wonder whether he was inebriated in any way. Impossible to tell for the goggles obscuring his eyes.* [02:22] PF: ONCE AGAIN, I MAY ONLY STAND TO THANK YOU. [02:22] PF: IF PERHAPS, I COULD BE GRANTED PERMISSION FOR A RETURNING MESSAGE. [02:28] CD: } --> *Just squints at him,. He doesn't understand what was just said and doesn't want to sound like a completel nincompoop. Thank God for the goggles.* [02:28] CD: } --> Um [02:28] CD: } --> Yes [02:28] CD: } --> *Whatever it was, yes should do the trick.* [02:29] PF: VERY WELL. *appears satisfied with this answer and dips his head, beginning his retreat* THEN I SHALL LEAVE YOU TO ENJOY YOUR MEAL. [02:29] PF: UNTIL NEXT TIME. ADEIU, MISTER ZAHHAK. [02:33] CD: } --> Yes [02:33] CD: } --> *What was his name again* [02:33] CD: } --> Oh [02:33] CD: } --> Goodbye James [02:36] PF: *And he's gone.* [02:36] -- practicalFamiliar [PF] gave up trolling coltishDaedalian [CD] at 02:36 --

[gladiatecarnifex]

-- practicalFamiliar [PF] began pestering gladiateCarnifex [GC] at 23:30 --

[11:30] PF: *making his way over to Redglare, still neatly wiping his face clean with a towelette*

[11:30] GC: -Ros3 nods curtly 1n gr33t1ng.- 3v3n1ng.

[11:30] GC: -r3dgl4r3-

[11:30] GC: -r3dgl4r3-

[11:30] GC: -r3dgl4r34-r4rg43rg43rg-

[11:31] PF: HELLO REDGLARE. *Yes, he knows who redglare is.* ARE YOU ENJOYING THE FESTIVITIES.

[11:31] GC: 1t's r1d1culous, 1f you 4sk m3.

[11:32] PF: I FIND IT AMUSING. AND MY INTERACTIONS HAVE BEEN RATHER... ENRICHING. AS I MENTIONED.

[11:32] PF: ECLAIR? *offers baked goods*

[11:34] GC: ...

[11:34] GC: Y3s.

[11:34] GC: Y3s, 1'll--

[11:35] GC: -sh3 t4k3s 1t c4su4lly.-

[11:35] GC: -goodby3, 3lc14r.-

[11:35] GC: -1t's gon3.-

[11:35] GC: Mph.-

[11:35] PF: *so pleased. Casually slides the whole tray to her.*

[11:35] GC: ...

[11:35] GC: -you fuck3r-

[11:35] GC: -now sh3 h4s to 34t 4ll of th3m-

[11:35] PF: * :) *

[11:36] GC: --1. H4d 4 br13f 3ncount3r w1th 3ngl1sh. Confus3d young m4n.

[11:36] GC: Now you.

[11:36] GC: W3'v3 4lr34dy m3t, 4nd...

[11:36] GC: 1 b3l13v3 1 know 4 f41r numb3r of th3s3 qu3st1ons 4lr34dy.

[11:36] PF: I AM A RATHER OPEN BOOK.

[11:36] PF: HAD AN INTERESTING CONVERSATION WITH... HM.

[11:36] PF: DIDN'T QUITE GET HER NAME.

[11:37] GC: W3ll.

[11:37] GC: f41l3d qu3st1on on3.

[11:37] GC: go1ng to h4v3 to m4rk th4t off your gr4d3.

[11:37] GC: -fuck1ng-

[11:37] GC: -34t1ng 4noth3r on3-

[11:37] GC: -TH1S 1S SO B4D-

[11:38] PF: DAMN.

[11:38] PF: PARDON MY LANGUAGE.

[11:39] GC: -Tsk-tsks.-

[11:39] GC: ...Why d1d you g1v3 m3 4ll of ths33.

[11:39] PF: I AM KNOWN FOR MY GENEROUS NATURE.

[11:40] PF: OR I ATTEMPT TO BE.

[11:40] GC: >:1

[11:40] GC: -Sh3's h4d l1k3 f1v3 now.-

[11:41] PF: *he is enjoying this*

[11:41] GC: ...1 hop3 you don't m1n3 1f 1 don't both3r 4sk1ng, 4nyhow. Truthfully, 1 only 1nt3nd3d to com3 h3r3 to k33p 4n 3y3 on D4m4r4.

[11:41] GC: But sh3's do1ng w3ll on h3r own.

[11:41] GC: 4nd 1 w4s roll3d 1nto th1s b4llot 4nyw4ys.

[11:59] PF: I WOULD NOT BE DETERRED.

[12:00] GC: Gu3ss not.

[12:00] GC: 1 suppos3 1 ought to just.

[12:00] GC: G3t ov3r mys3lf.

[12:00] GC: Suppos3 1t just b3com3s mor3 obv1ous how b1g 4 g4p th3r3 1s b3tw33n h4tch g3n3r4t1ons.

[12:01] PF: *raises eyebrow* I NEVER KNEW IT WAS A PROBLEM.

[12:01] PF: MY INTENTIONS ARE CLEAR ANYHOW.

[12:01] PF: I WOULD LIKE. TO MAKE ACQUAINTANCES.

[12:02] GC: 1t's good to know 4s much 4s you c4n.

[12:03] GC: ...

[12:03] GC: 1'm t4k1ng th3s3.

[12:03] GC: --Th4nk you, though.

[12:04] GC: 1t w4s 4 pl34s4nt t4lk.

[12:05] PF: AS ALWAYS. *smiles her way* HELP YOURSELF.

[12:05] GC: Good luck 1n th3 n3xt round.

[12:05] GC: -SH3'S GON3-

[apostolicchronicler-blog]

[10:41] -- apostolicChronicler [AC] began trolling practicalFamiliar [PF] at 22:41 --

[10:41] AC: -She stalks over to the hat man.- >:OO

[10:43] PF: *The hat man is tipping his hat towards her.* GREETINGS.

[10:43] PF: WOULD YOU CARE FOR A CHOCOLATE ECLAIR? *gestures at the tray on the table*

[10:43] AC: >:II

[10:43] AC: What is.

[10:43] AC: She does not know this.

[10:43] AC: Egg?

[10:43] AC: Is egg?

[10:44] PF: THAT IS ECLAIR. *so patient* YOU MAY HELP YOURSELF TO A SAMPLING IF YOU WOULD LIKE.

[10:44] PF: MY NAME IS JAMES EGBERT. PLEASED TO MEET YOUR ACQUAINTANCE.

[10:46] AC: She is she with many names.

[10:47] AC: She is hunter and prey, she is preacher and choir and audience all.

[10:47] AC: She is she. Yes.

[10:47] AC: -She presses a paw against his face, trilling loudly.-

[10:48] PF: *Oh. This is. Rather unsanitary. He politely takes the paw to his face with as much grace as he can muster.* AH.

[10:48] AC: Rrrrrr.

[10:48] AC: This one is James, then, yes.

[10:49] AC: -She grabs an eclair and eats it. It's gone now.-

[10:49] PF: THAT IS CORRECT. THIS IS A FRIENDLY EXCHANGE. I BELIEVE.

[10:49] AC: Mrow. Does James know love? In his pusher?

[10:49] AC: Does it beat for another, she asks?

[10:51] PF: OH. *yes that's a question on the list isn't it* I CANNOT SAY I HAVE IN QUITE A LONG TIME.

[10:51] AC: He has lost?

[10:51] AC: -FROWN-

[10:51] AC: -SAD-

[10:52] PF: *No don't be sad! He raises his hand in an attempt to reassure her.* IT IS NOT HOW YOU THINK.

[10:52] PF: SHE WAS LOST BUT. IT WAS FOR THE BEST.

[10:52] AC: Mrr. She wonders.

[10:52] AC: She ... knows it is natural, yes.

[10:53] AC: But she is afraid.

[10:53] AC: Of experiencing this.

[10:53] AC: She would not want this, herself.

[10:53] PF: HOW SO.

[10:53] AC: She has been with hers. For a very long time.

[10:53] AC: She does not think about how it is. She just feels.

[10:54] AC: It is a good feeling. Strong. It changes often, but it always returns.

[10:56] PF: *he strokes his chin* DO YOU QUESTION YOURSELF OVER THE POSSIBILITY OFTEN.

[10:56] AC: No. Not often. But sometimes, yes.

[10:56] AC: Perhaps she should not speak of these things.

[10:57] PF: IT IS PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE A DISCUSSION.

[10:57] PF: IT IS A LEGITIMATE CONCERN.

[10:57] AC: She thinks these things for poor reasons, though.

[10:57] AC: When one is...

[10:57] AC: ...lost.

[10:57] AC: And gone.

[10:57] AC: And she does not return.

[10:57] AC: And things are changed.

[10:58] PF: THINGS WHERE CHANGED, IT IS TRUE.

[10:58] PF: HOWEVER.

[10:58] PF: WITH HER DEPARTURE, CAME LOVE IN A DIFFERENT FORM.

[10:58] PF: MY SON AND DAUGHTER.

[10:58] PF: AND FOR THAT I AM GRATEFUL.

[10:59] AC: -oh yeah he has babies-

[10:59] AC: -but the adult kind that aren't as tender and delicious-

[10:59] AC: Mrrr. She thinks about this.

[11:00] AC: But she knows her love is bleeding. Hurt. But she cannot help. It is sharp and jagged and it hurts her too.

[11:00] AC: -She plops right on the ground and lets out a whine. Sort of a catlike "mrhghhhhhhhhhhh" noise.-

[11:01] PF: GIVE IT TIME. EVEN THE MOST GRUESOME OF WOUNDS HEAL OVER TIME.

[11:01] AC: -She nods a little.- Mrr. She does poorly at this game, yes? Talking of things, not of lists. It is silly. Perhaps she does not understand so well as she thinks, yes?

[11:02] PF: I DO NOT MIND. *says pleasantly* I FIND IT TO BE ENRICHING.

[11:02] AC: Does he think of quadrants?

[11:03] AC: She seldom thinks of them.

[11:03] PF: WHO AM I TO PASS JUDGEMENT OVER ANOTHER RACE'S INTERPRETATION OF ROMANCE.

[11:04] AC: Rrr. She wonders, though. If he ever feels it. Perhaps humans do not know when they feel it? Or perhaps they must try to do so.

[11:04] AC: She thinks it is not so important as we are told.

[11:04] PF: WELL IN ALL HONESTY, I HAVE NOT HELD ENOUGH EXPERIENCE TO TRUELY DRAW THAT CONCLUSION.

[11:04] AC: -She nods.-

[11:14] PF: SUPPOSE THE TIMER IS WINDING DOWN. *says with a bemused expression* MAY I SUGGEST WE SPEAK IN A LESS FORMAL SETTING?

[11:14] PF: I WOULD ENJOY THAT QUITE A BIT.

[11:14] AC: Mrr. Yes. She knows his scent.

[11:14] AC: She will track him down.

[11:15] PF: *He must smell like colonge and tabacco smoke.*

[11:15] AC: -SHE KNOWS-

[11:15] AC: -PADS AWAY-

[11:15] -- apostolicChronicler [AC] gave up trolling practicalFamiliar [PF] at 23:15 --

[gulescamisade]

Betty Crocker Headquarters:  Prison Break

[It's been quiet here in the prison area... Maybe the prisoners have accepted their fate at this point, or maybe the stillness is something like the calm before the storm. The atmosphere seems to foretell a happening -- but there's little more evidence of that than a fading blood stain on the floor.]

TEREZI: =In a soft glow of light, a body returns to it's area of expiration, plopping gently feet first onto the floor in a garb of green. For the second time in a short time, Terezi is returned to the land of the living. She clenched and unclenched her hands - was this real? It wasn't quite as jarring as the last time, but unlike last time, she wouldn't hesitate. Whether it was real or not, she didn't have time to doubt it; she had to believe it was.=

TEREZI: =Noticing that she stuck out quite literally, being smack in the middle of a hallway along with her attire a colorful beacon, Terezi ducked down against the wall. Hoping no cameras caught that, she continued moving. Even though she didn't know where she was going or where she could remain out of sight, the very least she could do was make herself a little harder to track.=

TEREZI: =slipping down another hall, she stuck close to the left side, keeping her ears open.=

[If the cameras did pick it up, no one has immediately swept in to deal with her... Definitely not little red riding hood and her pointy jam. The only signs of life are those inside the cells, if Terezi takes a peek...]

TEREZI: =she does. A very slow, careful peek. Guh, gotta get this hood out of the way first.=

[Let's say luck is on her side and she happens upon JAMES very quickly, catching a glimpse of him through the tiny slot in the door.]

JAMES: -is seated at his cot and meditating. He has been conserving his energy for this moment. TZ only needs to get his attention.-

TEREZI: !

TEREZI: =She taps a finger against the slot.= ((h3y m1st3r 3gb3rt s1r, psssssst!)) =tiny wave=

JAMES: -That'll do it. He recognizes the voice and rises to stand. Subtly cracking his neck as he does so.- MISS PYROPE.

JAMES: I TAKE THAT IT IS TIME FOR ACTION?

TEREZI: ((1m go1ng to gu3ss so, y3s))

TEREZI: ((1 dont r34lly know wh4t th3 h3ll 1s go1ng on, but 4ct1on 1s 4 gr34t pl4c3 to st4rt)) >:]

JAMES: SAY NO MORE. -coming over to brace his hands by the door.- I DON'T SUPPOSE YOU CARRY A KEY WITH YOU?

TEREZI: ((no, 1 just got h3r3)) =Literally=

JAMES: WHATEVER THE CASE, I AM PLEASED TO SEE YOU HERE.

JAMES: I ALSO WOULD LIKE TO SUGGEST YOU STAND CLEAR OF THE DOOR.

TEREZI: ((y34h, sur3 th1ng)) =She disappears from view as she stepped aside.=

JAMES: -Wastes no time, pulling his fist back and swinging it againt the door in a single mangrit-charged punch. One punch, if you will. Please expect the cell door to explode off its hinges. Crashing into the hallway.-

JAMES: ...

JAMES: -steps through the forced hole he just created.- HELLO.

TEREZI: =....= ....

TEREZI: W3LL 1 GU3SS TH3R3S NO PO1NT 1N B31NG QU13T NOW, 1S TH3R3? =but she's smiling!! ITS WONDERFUL TO BE ALIVE. She was stock still for a moment before continuing=

TEREZI: L3TS G3T TH3 OTH3RS

TEREZI: TH3R3 4R3 OTH3RS H3R3 TOO, R1GHT?

JAMES: ROXY, JAKE. THE CHERUBS. LAST I WAS INFORMED.

JAMES: -Does take a moment to take in the state of her... but decides not to dwell on it.- THEY ARE CLOSE.

TEREZI: =Most of her is hidden under these green jammies, but there are conical horns poking through slits that seemed to be made just for them.=

TEREZI: GOOD! L3TS G3T GO1NG! =she motioned with a hand, to lead them further down this hallway. She paused only to peek through the slots thoroughly for more of the crew and friends.=

JAMES: -as Terezi peeks for friends, James is going to take the initiative and scout further down the hallway. Checking the doors don't lead to cells.-

[There is one door, that at first glance just appears to lead to another cell, but behind the window slot is instead something like a locker room. The door is locked, of course, but a panel opens on it to reveal a keypad.]

TEREZI: =with no one else in the cells she checked, she joined James, glancing down at the keypad.= TEREZI: KNOW 4NY SW33T H4CKS? =she does take a glance down towards each end of the hallway to make sure they weren't being followed.=

JAMES: I PERHAPS KNOW ONE SWEET HACK. -reaches far into the steel trap of his memory and tries a code.-

JAMES: ...

JAMES: IT IS THE BINARY NUMBER FOR CAKE.

ROXY: =RATTLES HER BARS, only no=

JAMES: - 01100011 01100001 01101011 01100101 -

[THE DOOR OPENS.]

JAMES: -Golly... it worked. Of course, it did. Cake is the answer to all the world's problems. He's pretty sure CrockerCorp had a slogan of that nature some years ago... Anyway, James is taking a cautionary look into the lab.-

TEREZI: W41T 1...

TEREZI: =she returned to one of the cells she had previously checked. The room was full of fucking green.... How??=

ROXY: =Heckin magic is how=

JAMES: WHAT IS IT?

[It's mostly just lockers and storage bins stacked on shelves. James might notice that one of the bins has a HANDSOME WALLET in it.]

JAMES: -Strong fatherly exclamation point! Swiftly moving to pluck this wallet out and looking to ransack the rest of the storage bins for STUFF. Clips his whole sylladex back onto himself. He is ready.-

TEREZI: =Still peeping through the slot. Is there anyone in there?=

[Roxy, Jake and the Cherubs sylladexes are definitely in the bins too, if he can recognize them. They maye or may not be obvious.]

JAMES: -Retrieve sylladexes.-

ROXY: =Some of the cubes shift about, two of them move to the side and there's pink eyes staring back=

ROXY: !!

ROXY: =Suddenly the disappear and after a few seconds Roxy (and about 50 green cubes) decend on Terezi= rexrezzie!

ROXY: =Get buried=

TEREZI: !!!!!!!!!!! >8O

TEREZI: =That was perhaps the most startling thing she experienced in her new life so far=

TEREZI: ROXY! >:D

ROXY: =HER EYES, holds her face also her body, looks around and sees James= wut.... wait

ROXY: explain on the way this is a bust out right? i have snausages 4 the guard dawg

TEREZI: STR4NG3LY 3NOUGH TH3R3 H4V3 B33N NO GU4RDS

TEREZI: OR GU4RD DOGS

TEREZI: >:\

TEREZI: =gives roxy a quick, tight hug though=

ROXY: =SQUEEZES even tho she stank= that's suspicerous

ROXY: =Squints a bit and looks around=

JAMES: -returns back to their place of convening.- ROXY.

JAMES: ...

JAMES: -scoops both these girls in a brief strong fatherly embrace.- I HAVE RETRIEVED YOUR SYLLADEX.

JAMES: HOWEVER I FEAR THERE MAY BE A REASON WE HAVE YET TO ENCOUNTER ANY CONFRONTATION.

JAMES: -hands roxy back her sylladex.-

ROXY: =A BIG HUG FOR EVERYONE SHE'S SO HAPPY=

ROXY: =takes her dex back and immediate puts on her strife spec= let's take advantage of that for now n find jake n callie

TEREZI: =that's okay! she's happy to see her alive and well! Terezi on the other and smells fresh and new like laundered linen.=

[Roxy likely remembers the way to where they're being held from before she was chased away by the guard dog. It is basically a straight shot through this exit, the next hall, and through a spooky and suspicious door labeled "we do horrible experiments here" OR SOMETHING. It was implied.]

ROXY: =SHE SURE DOES=

ROXY: =stretches her legs a little then nods down the hall=

ROXY: this way itll b a good place to start at least also maybe theyve made progress since i last been there =starts to guide them down the hall=

JAMES: -carrying up the rear. Will leap to defend the ladies if he needs to. He is armed with his photon watch shield and 100 count of cakes kept fresh in his sylladex. Hope everyone is hydrated. James is going to make sure they are.-

JAMES: -distantly fussing at them children.-

ROXY: =A sweet hot dad :') =

TEREZI: =she's got nothing on her except the literal clothes on her back=

[They exit the prison area and into the next hall with the tech labs. The staff NEVER seems to be around here... That probably isn't a good sign, but oh well. It makes their trek to their destination all the easier. The super secret lab they're looking for is still locked, but nothing void magic, gadgets and gizmos, or fists thru the wall can't fix.]

TEREZI: =Is there another keypad for this door?=

[INDEED. Or it requires a keycard... I can't remember. Either way.]

ROXY: =Is someone gonna fist that wall? 👀 she missed wall fisting=

ROXY: =she can totally handle this but like.... 👀=

JAMES: -What about cake override codes... Aw, darn.-

JAMES: -There was a door punched off its hinges back in the hallway. She def can appreciate that now.-

ROXY: =She does but also she'll just give some SWEET HACKS to this door for now to save her energy. All this absence she feels like she'll need it=

[DOOR: HACKED.]

ROXY: =turns to them= im in

TEREZI: H33

ROXY: =NOW WHAT NERD SCIENCE BULLSHIT HAVE THEY EVEN DONE UP IN HERE?=

JAMES: WELL DONE, ROXY. -He's proud of you... but also focused on this serious business.-

[Inside, as she remembers, there are some panels on the wall where video feeds used to be, but everything is shut off right now. She would ALSO rememebr another door being locked in here, but it's WIDE OPEN NOW. This will lead to, you guessed it, even MORE rooms. But they are less like prison cells and more like dingy examination rooms. One of them has pumpkin vines peeking out from under the door...]

JAMES: ...

JAMES: ODD.

TEREZI: D1DNT J4D3 GROW PUMPK1NS?

ROXY: =Squints at that open door and peeps all at the one with vines growing from under the door- WAIT! Is there a panel to this door too?= hang on....

ROXY: cuz i remember jake was like.... o =she remembers... the greenery... the tiny shorts. Yes, it's all coming back to her=

JAMES: THEN IT ONLY STANDS TO SAY JAKE IS BEHIND THIS DOOR. -Should he pry it open? Or maybe he doesn't need to. If Roxy would like to do the honors?-

[Flashback cut to photos of Jake in tiny red Crocker Corp booty shorts and suspenders.]

TEREZI: W41T 4 S3C GUYS, 1---

TEREZI: MMMNG... =a hand hovers to squeeze at her temples before she moved to the door, her hand lowering to the keypad. Reaching into the past, she searched for someone who had used the keypad last.=

ROXY: =Ah.... yes... she remembers......=

[Whoever used this keypad last LOOKS LIKE A NERD. Probably a scientist. So definitely a nerd. She can see them typing in the code.]

TEREZI: =After a pause of her looking COMPLETELY out of it, Terezi's fingers moved, punching in the code.=

[DOOR: SEER'D.]

TEREZI: =a little surprised that worked actually!=

JAMES: -He is... so concerned. And also surprised. Before James can think to comment on it, however a pumpkin is being FLUNG from behind the door. Thrown with such a force that it explodes violently against the wall opposite his cell.- !!!!!!!!

JAKE: BACK AT IT AGAIN YOU WEASLY SONS OF BITCHES??? TIME FOR ROUND TWO!

JAKE: -PUMPKIN FLINGS. PCHOO POCHOO.-

JAKE: -SPLAT-

ROXY: =👀= girl wu-!! =YIPE=

[If Terezi seer'd just a little bit longer, she might have seen the nerd get pelted with a pumpkin.]

ROXY: =but also= JAKE!

JAKE: -a mustached face peers from behind his cot/pumpkin fort. But not another second is spared before he is EMERGING. Hello booty shorts. It's also apparent that he is armed with pumpkins attatched to a vine sash on his back.- ROXAROO!!!! TEREZI? JAMES?

JAKE: Good golly is it time??????????

TEREZI: =everyone ELSE had exited calmly!=

TEREZI: =RELATIVELY=

JAKE: -don't blame him... he's got bandages plenty on his arms from many needle pokes... He's BEEN rowdy.-

TEREZI: =peeks around the door at Jake= GOOD GOLLY 1S 1T S4F3?

JAKE: -He doesn't care and is blubbering a little bit. Q_Q- You came...

TEREZI: >:D

TEREZI: H3CK Y34H W3 D1D!

ROXY: =Baby no.... she frowns at him then goes to give him a gently FIRM squeeze= baby ...... :C

ROXY: ofc we woulda come

JAMES: -There, there Jake... James is ruffling his hair in support.-

JAKE: -obviously takes a minute to be scooped in Roxy's muscle embrace and cry a little bit. Terezi too. Come here quad in law.-

JAKE: -he hug...-

JAKE: I knew you would! -It's all he could tell himself all alone in his kennel.-

[ENOUGH HUGGING TIME IS MONEY MONEY IS POWER POWER IS PIZZA PIZZA IS KNOWLEDGE.]

JAKE: -He wants pizza!!!!!!!!!! Swipes his face clean of tears and puts his angry eyebrows on.- Now what the hoo heck hash are we diddydaddling around for? Weve some cherubs to track!

JAMES: WE WERE SEARCHING FOR YOU, SON. -hands him his sylladex- JAKE: !!!!! -EQUIPS. HOLA double pistols.-

TEREZI: =quad in law....= >:']

ROXY: yeah! but i dunno where they are :c

ROXY: least with u i had an idea..... =starts to get back out of this cell=

JAKE: -suddenly guns. 🔫- Well find them no problemo. -he BELIEVES IT.-

JAMES: -Son... do you maybe want to change into a different garb? He has extra clothes.-

JAKE: -No........................................... Leave it............................................... He burns to see this through to the end.-

JAMES: -I'm proud of you.-

ROXY: =jake she can make you more booty shorts and suspenders its ok=

TEREZI: S1NC3 NO ON3S S41D 1M GONN4 S4Y 1T

TEREZI: 3V3RYON3 LOOKS SO R1D1CULOUS

JAKE: -they cling to his every curve. He breathes out with a low hiss.-

JAKE: All the sweeter the victory when we blow this laboratory to SMITHEREENS.

JAMES: -fixing at his tie self consciously... Does he look ridiculous? Oh dear.-

TEREZI: =Youve been in jail a month, sorry mister=

JAMES: - :( He'll have to put on his hat to hide his shame.-

ROXY: im hot always

ROXY: also we got a sweet precious baby girl 2 find! =Trnansformers.... ROLLOUT=

[Its true, they will find the Cherubs no problemo. For all the cells are empty, but further investigation will take them to an open lab... But it isn't a pretty sight here. Large tubes with floating... body parts? Inside of them. Vials and beakers of rainbow blood standing against the red of a human's... Stained slabs and tables.... Just to name a few of the unpleasant sights. There are large drawers, too, which give the whole lab the look of a morgue.]

TEREZI: HOT HOT T4T3R TOT

TEREZI: .......

ROXY: =MMMNNG GROSS.....=

JAMES: -Entire vats drained of blood. There are no words.-

JAKE: -the sight and feel of this place is freezing the breath in his lungs a little bit. Big old, cold sweat gulps.-

TEREZI: WH4T...H4PP3N3D H3R3?

TEREZI: =but even as she asked the question, something in her reached out for her to reach back, and her mind delved into the decisions made in this place. =

JAKE: Id...

JAKE: Rather not know. -hiding behind roxy just 8C -

[But Terezi will know, decisions were made here to follow out their Empress' fucked up, and frankly ridiculous, endeavors to make humans more like trolls. Going so far as to even try to fill their veins with caste colored blood. It isn't limited to that, and what all was decided and executed here would likely be overwhelmed. Particularly when it involves familiar faces like Jake's and Calliope and Caliborn's.]

TEREZI: =she tried to pull herself away from the memory - the visions? - and when she finally had control over her limbs again, she used them to propel her to the nearest trash can=

TEREZI: =blaaaaaar=

ROXY: .......oh

ROXY: =Rushes over and rubs her back= ... what happened are you okay???

JAKE: -gHGHGHHGHHG. Now he feels terrible...-

JAMES: -swiftly fetching a bottle of water for Terezi.-

TEREZI: =shes dry heaving; food isn't real in dreams=

TEREZI: 3XP3R1M3NTS...ON HUM4NS

TEREZI: TO M4K3 TH3M MOR3 L1K3 US =she felt like she really NEEDED to have something in her stomach because nothing felt so much worse=

TEREZI: TH3 CH3RUBS...W3 H4V3 TO F1ND TH3M-- W3-- =but a part of her knew that search would be fruitless=

TEREZI: =finally noticing the waterbottle, she took it tentatively=J4K3 =she turned to spitting stomach acid into the wastebasket= 1M SO SORRY...

ROXY: mmmnnng :c

ROXY: =She looks to the drawers now.... a little scared to open them=

ROXY: fuckin.... maniac bitch fish =goes over to them to like, peek in a few=

JAKE: I-- hmm hn... -he can't exactly be left to try and think about EXACTLY what they did with all those pokes and prods from before. He feels more conscious of the bandages on his arms than ever before.-

JAKE: Im whole and here. What more can i ask for?? -gathering himself up, still cold and sweaty. Roxy, don't... Jake can't handle this.-

ROXY: =she'll SHEILD THEIR GAZE WITH HER BODY=

ROXY: =But she really can't not...=

TEREZI: =no need, she's seen everything all at once. it was horrible=

JAKE: -HE'S VERY AFRAID OF WHATS IN THE DRAWERS AND DECIDES TO TURN HIS BACK AWAY.-

JAMES: -stern and steady hands on his back. Look away, son...-

[Unfortunately for Roxy, most of these are full... Mostly of ashen skinned humans, but there is one body that is very distinctly green.]

ROXY: ..... =like... with ganggreen?=

ROXY: =She'll take tthat=

ROXY: =But also her expression falls and something in her tightens up.... wtf=

TEREZI: =she would have told Roxy not to look, but she's busy coughing into the trashcan again=

ROXY: =SORRY EVERYONE SHE'S TOO CURIOUS FOR HER OWN GOOD=

[CURIOSITY KILLED THE CAT.]

[At the very least, it made her quite sad...]

[She can BELIEVE the skin tone is unnatural, but of course she knows the truth. They found the cherubs.]

ROXY: =WOW THIS IS A BAD CASE OF GANG GREEN=

ROXY: =but no she's crying and holding the handle of the drawer tight=

ROXY: (fuckin.....)

JAKE: Theyre dead arent they? -he doesnt have to see. He knows in his hopes of heart.-

ROXY: =Can she just... sylladex this body= ROXY: .. yeah

ROXY: =They deserved so much better.... better than all this. All these people did=

JAKE: - ;__; - Oh callies...

[Caliborn is flipping you off in the afterlife, Jake. It's okay...]

JAKE: -HE WOULD CORPSE SMOOCH YOU BACK TO LIFE IF HE HAD TO, HE SWEARS!-

[She can steal the body if she wishes, however.]

ROXY: =Steals it she does and strides out of the lab with rage renewed= lets get the fuck out of here and find these dicks >:''(

TEREZI: =wiping her mouth with the back of her hand=

TEREZI: SH1T...

TEREZI: 1M W1TH YOU TH3R3

JAKE: -cocks his pistols. The world's grimmest, most grumpiest look on his face.- They wont even know what hit them.

TEREZI: =Is there anything lying around that she can use as a weapon?=

ROXY: o the fuck that yes they will =time for her ROXY LNDE brass knuckles=

JAKE: -Why not hopevoid her a weapon?-

[Good plan, because there isn't much else around besides scalpels and needles.]

TEREZI: =Imagine, flying into combat: NEEDLE JAB! Now you have some horrible troll disease! Congrats!=

JAKE: -eyeballs Terezi.- Say...

JAKE: How...

JAKE: I mean.

JAKE: How did you manage to get here?

TEREZI: UH....UM....W3LL

TEREZI: ....

TEREZI: 1TS 4 LONG STORY

[For all intents and purposes, they should be able to escape easily between Roxy and James' sweet hacking skills, whenever they are ready to vamoose.]

[AKA their work here is done. MISSION COMPLETE. You found your dead friend.]

ROXY: =SQUINTS WHILE HACKING SO MUCH, water u hidin rez=

JAKE: Oh okay... Would you like one of my pistols? -He literally has a whole pile of them in his sylladex. Ushers after the HAXXORS, letting them do their thing.-

TEREZI: =perks a bit= Y34H!

TEREZI: =She hasn't quite used such a precision weapon in a while, but it's a weapon and she'll take it.= TH4NKS

JAKE: -potentially giving a blind troll a gun??? This is normal. He has yet to be updated on things.- THATS THE SPIRIT!

JAKE: -Assuming Terezi is wearing the seer hoodie that covers her eyes. Not weird in the slightest to him.-

TEREZI: =She is indeed wearing the hood. You'll see, Jake. You'll see.=

ROXY: =Touches Terezi's bitchin jammies, so soft=

TEREZI: =softer than a baby's booty=

JAMES: -assisting in leading the way through the building and all the confusing layout business. They are well on their way OUT OF HERE.-

TEREZI: =takes the gun and checks to see how much ammo is left in the chamber. She remembered how to do that at least.=

TEREZI: TH3 SHORT OF 1T 1S 1 D13D =puts the clip back in and turns off the safety= TW1C3

JAKE: -Wall eyed...- Erm....

JAKE: Now that sounds like some tale. Too bad its so short!

JAKE: Terezi!

ROXY: ...wtf??

ROXY: ughh :c

ROXY: UGH >:(

ROXY: thats... bullshit!

[Outside they will probably see a GIANT ASS DRAGONFLY.]

TEREZI: M4J3ST1C

JAKE: -spongebob caveman memes in his booty shorts.- What the piss???

ROXY: =MORE LIKE A BITCHASS DRAGONFLY, SHE KICKS OPEN THE DOOR= MA-DEAD-STIC!

TEREZI: =there's dragon in the word. it's close enough=

ROXY: =GUN READY SHE READY TO BLASTEE U ASSTEE=

[taskforcetumut]

ATRIUM SECURITY RECORDING 0270

[THE INTERCOM CRACKLES, and it's a very... not right sounding Eridan]

ERIDAN: this is your captain speakin

ERIDAN: i havve somethin important to tell alla you

ERIDAN: a lot a all the bad thats happened these past feww perigees

ERIDAN: its been all my fault

ERIDAN: i kneww a lot a that shit wwas gunna happen before it

ERIDAN: happened

ERIDAN: wwe covvered up a lot a shit wwe shouldnt havve because wwe thought it wwould help but it didnt

ERIDAN: nothin helped

ERIDAN: like aras death an howw it wwasnt an accident an

ERIDAN: the bomb that went off a year ago

ERIDAN: a lot a the political dissonance

ERIDAN: the fact that were harborin a figurehead a europa thats under the guise of a shitty bard with awful music

ERIDAN: im the wworst scum there is an none a you need me as your captain

[5:55:42 PM]  VRISKA: I volunteer!!!!!!!! -from wherever she is-

[5:59:07 PM]  ERIDAN: *the intercom is still on but he's stopped talking*

[6:00:07 PM]  JADE: -she's going to wrestle Vriska, but mostly she's going to find Eridan right now. SOMEONE HOLD HER BABY-

[6:00:43 PM]  VRISKA: -I'LL TAKE IT!!!!!!!!-

[6:00:49 PM]  JADE: -NO YOU WONT-

[6:01:22 PM]  ARADIA: -she's going to have some explaining to do...and also she needs to see eridan stat after everyone else is dONE-

[6:17:54 PM]  DAD: -is keeping an eye out in case he's needed for ACTION.-

[7:19:46 PM]  TEREZI: -Has her cane leaned against her workstation in the event someone chooses to act on that announcement.-

[7:22:29 PM]  LATULA: -she's stealing snack foods so that she can stress about things quietly-

[7:23:04 PM] MITUNA: -Sleeping in Latulas room tonight.-

[[ERIDAN'S VOICE CRACKLES ON THE INTERCOM ONCE MORE.  This time he just sounds a little tired]]

ERIDAN: this is another important announcement but a more important one at that

ERIDAN: im

ERIDAN: not givvin up

ERIDAN: none a you should either

ERIDAN: im sorry for my lapse in focus an none a you should followw that example

ERIDAN: wwere gettin evveryone back soon trust me

ERIDAN: but uh

ERIDAN: for the time bein

ERIDAN: anyone needin to contact me should go through jade first

ERIDAN: ovver an out

[9:13:16 PM]  REDGLARE: -She's been all over the place today, back and fourth for hours on end, and she's finally ready to actually get herself a little bit of something to eat, even I f it's just a protein bar or something.-

[9:14:29 PM]  DAD: -why settle for a protein bar when you can have a fresh hot BLT. James is furiously making these by the dozen.-

[9:14:52 PM]  REDGLARE: -She leans over towards the sandwiches.- ...You.  

REDGLARE: 4r3 s3rv1c3 now, 1 suppos3?

[9:15:46 PM]  DAD: -sets tray out- AFFIRMATIVE. SERVICEMAN IS MY CURRENT OCCUPATION.

[9:17:28 PM]  DAD: YOU ARE OFFICER REDGLARE, I BELIEVE? -He's had a rather... odd impression of her lately so he can't be sure.-

[9:18:18 PM]  REDGLARE: ...Y3s.

REDGLARE: Jun1or Off1c3r R3dgl4r3.

REDGLARE: -She grabs a sandwich.-

REDGLARE: 4s much 4s r4nk 4nd t1tl3 m4tt3r now.

[9:20:45 PM]  DAD: THERE IS VALUE IN THE TITLE AS IT REFLECTS THE MANNER IN WHICH ONE CARRIES ONES' BUSINESS.

DAD: WITH THIS IN MIND.

DAD: WOULD YOU CARE FOR A BLENDED BEVERAGE?

[9:21:00 PM]  REDGLARE: ...Wh4t 1s bl3nd3d 1n th1s b3v3r4g3?

[9:24:46 PM]  DAD: WATERMELON AND KIWI FRUIT BLENDED WITH A HALF SERVING OF LEMONADE.

DAD: THERE IS AN ALCOHOLIC OPTION AS WELL.

[9:25:05 PM]  REDGLARE: Do th4t on3.

REDGLARE: Th3 sopor1f1c on3.

[9:26:13 PM]  DAD: -gets to work on putting the drink together. He offers the drink to her but then pauses.-

[9:26:19 PM]  DAD: ONE MOMENT.

[9:26:28 PM]  DAD: -places a tiny umbrella in the drink-

[9:28:07 PM]  REDGLARE: ... -stares at the tiny parasol.-

REDGLARE: Oh.

REDGLARE: 4cc3pt4bl3.  -TAKES IT. HOW CUTE.-

REDGLARE: -She sits back, with now what appears to be an ACTUAL MEAL in front of her.  Without anyone even twisting her arm!!!-

[9:28:48 PM] Vain Snake: UNCLE BRO: -Proud noises in the bg-

[9:32:16 PM]  DAD: -is oblivious to all that he has accomplished with getting Redglare to eat and gets to cleaning the tables. With so much uncertainty in the air, it's important to keep things functioning and organized in James's opinion.-

[9:32:40 PM]  REDGLARE: So you h4v3. 4 hum4n ch1ld.

REDGLARE: Th4t's why you'r3 h3r3.

[9:32:45 PM]  REDGLARE: -CONVERSATION-

[9:34:30 PM]  DAD: I CLAIM GUARDIANSHIP OVER TWO HUMAN CHILDREN. -corrects her but there's a good natured note in his severe tone of voice-

DAD: ALTHOUGH THEY ARE FAR FROM WHAT COULD BE CONSIDERED JUVENILES. I DO HOLD A FOND REGARD FOR THEM AS YOUNGSTERS.

[9:36:19 PM]  REDGLARE: You st1ll st4y 1n cont4ct, though.

REDGLARE: S1nc3 th3y'v3 com3 of 4t3.

REDGLARE: ...

REDGLARE: 1 suppos3 1t's good for us th4t you do.

[9:42:49 PM]  DAD: -He smiles then, rather mysteriously.- WOULD OFFER MY AGREEMENT.

DAD: I CANNOT SAY THEY WERE MY ONLY GAUGE FOR INFORMATION, HOWEVER.

DAD: CONNECTIONS UPON CONNECTIONS ESTABLISHED OVER THE COURSE OF A LIFELONG CAREER HAVE BROUGHT ME TO THIS POINT.

DAD: I HAVE COME TO UNDERSTAND ALL I NEED TO.

[9:43:45 PM]  REDGLARE: ...Conn3ct1ons.

REDGLARE: 1 4dm1t, th4t 1nt3r3sts m3.

REDGLARE: W3 don't h4v3 m4ny cont4cts outs1d3 of th3r r3b3ls.

REDGLARE: W3 d1dn't h4v3 4ny 4t 4ll, b3for3 w3 m3t th3m.

[9:52:06 PM]  DAD: -appears pensive- THERE EXISTS NETWORKS WHICH RUN IN THE UNDERCURRENT OF THE POLITICAL NONSENSE WHICH AT OFTEN TIMES, ASSUMES ITS POSITION IN THE FRONT STAGE OF CURRENT EVENTS.

DAD: IT DOES NOT EXTEND SOLELY TO THE REBELS EXISTING OUTSIDE THE LAW BUT TO FIGURES THAT COOPERATE WITHIN IT.

DAD: THE SEARCH IS A LONG AND ARDUOUS ONE. BUT FRUITFUL NEVERTHELESS.

[9:52:37 PM]  DAD: YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED.

[9:52:46 PM]  REDGLARE: ...Consort1ng w1th op3n cr1m1n4ls do3sn't comprom1s3 th1s n3twork.

REDGLARE: Do3s 1t?

[9:53:22 PM]  DAD: -chuckles a little at that- LIKE MANY THINGS. I SUPPOSE IT DEPENDS.

[9:55:46 PM]  REDGLARE: 1'll coll4bor4t3 1f n33d3d.

REDGLARE: Though sh4m3fully l4ck1ng 1n 4nyth1ng you h4v3n't 4lr34dy b33n br13f3d on.

REDGLARE: -She looks somewhat reflective as she pokes at her drink with the tiny parasol.-

REDGLARE: 1 suppos3 1t's good to know w3 h4v3 som3 4ll13s.

[9:58:22 PM]  DAD: CAN SAY I WOULD NOT HAVE MADE AN APPEARANCE IF I WAS NOT CERTAIN OF THIS FACT.

DAD: I HOST A SPECTACULAR DISLIKE OF LEAVING LOOSE ENDS.

[9:59:23 PM]  REDGLARE: Y3s. Loos3 3nds should b3 knott3d.

REDGLARE: 4nd l3ft d4ngl1ng from th3 br4nch of 4 t4ll tr33.  -sips-

[10:00:14 PM]  DAD: SHORT DROP AND A QUICK END.

[10:01:42 PM]  REDGLARE: Y3s. -THIS INCREDIBLY PROFESSIONAL MAN GETS HER.-

REDGLARE: Y3s 1t 1s.

[10:03:22 PM]  DAD: -offers nothing but a sly wink from under his fedora and goes back to wiping down this practically spotless chair-

[10:04:42 PM]  REDGLARE: ...4r3 you sur3 you'r3 s3rv1c3?

REDGLARE: W3 could put you w1th th3 sh1pm3n.

REDGLARE: You'd do good th3r3.

REDGLARE: 1f you c4n f1ght, w3 could 3v3n us3 4noth3r off1c3r.

[10:04:49 PM]  REDGLARE: -thirst 2 strong as she sips more-

[10:07:31 PM]  DAD: THE POSITION IS SUITABLE FOR THE TIME BEING.

DAD: I AM QUITE FOND OF MAKING CASSEROLES.

DAD: SHOULD MY SERVICES BE REQUIRED ELSEWHERE, THEN ELSEWHERE I SHALL BE.

[10:07:46 PM]  REDGLARE: Th3 off3r st4nds.

[10:07:53 PM]  REDGLARE: -why is he so perfect-

[10:07:56 PM]  REDGLARE: >:'|

[10:13:23 PM]  DAD: -He strives for perfection is why.- I SHALL TAKE IT INTO ACCOUNT. HOW ARE YOU ENJOYING THE SANDWICH?

[10:13:46 PM]  REDGLARE: Oh. 1t's... good.

REDGLARE: 1 suppos3 1 h4v3n't 34t3n.

REDGLARE:  -TAKES A BITE.-

[10:15:54 PM]  DAD: CRITIQUES ARE BENEFICIAL, I FIND. -amused. Now he's moving to place chairs over the table he's working at to reach the floor.-

[10:16:10 PM]  DAD: -sweep sweep sweep-

[10:16:36 PM]  REDGLARE: 1 do not h4v3 4 r3f1n3d p4l4t3.  -That is her way of saying she hasn't eaten real food in two days.-

[10:17:05 PM]  DAD: I FIND THIS MILDLY CONCERNING.

[10:17:21 PM]  REDGLARE: M1ldly, though.

[10:18:28 PM]  DAD: MILDLY.

DAD: I SHALL CONTINUE TO RESPECT THE DEFINITION OF YOUR PALATE AS ONE ADULT TO ANOTHER.

[10:19:22 PM]  REDGLARE: 1'm g3tt1ng us3d to th3 pr3s3nc3 of 4 k1tch3n.

[10:21:33 PM]  DAD: AS IT HAS NEVER EXISTED BEFORE, I IMAGINE.

DAD: MY PITY OF THE SITUATION IS BEGINNING TO GROW IN EXPONENTS.

[10:22:15 PM]  REDGLARE: Stop th4t.

REDGLARE: 1 h4d 4 nutr1t1onblock.

REDGLARE: 1t w4s funct1on4l.

REDGLARE: Just.

REDGLARE: Unus3d.

[10:23:04 PM]  DAD: ...SUCH A PITY. -It's obvious he dared to say it.-

[10:23:21 PM]  REDGLARE: >:|

[10:23:46 PM]  DAD: - :) -

[10:23:47 PM]  REDGLARE: Th3 s4nw1ch3s 4r3 f1n3, th4nk you.

[10:26:30 PM]  DAD: THE COMPLIMENT IS ACCEPTED.

DAD: SO THANK YOU, REDGLARE.

[10:27:11 PM]  REDGLARE: -GRUMBLES INTO HER SANDWICH-

[10:41:14 PM]  DAD: -allows her to eat in peace. For a little while anyway.-

DAD: PARDON.

DAD: BUT THERE ARE CRUMBS ON YOUR FRONT.

[10:41:30 PM]  REDGLARE: Wh4t?

[10:41:50 PM]  DAD: CRUMBS. ON YOUR FRONT. -sweep sweep sweep-

[10:43:38 PM]  REDGLARE: -She looks DOWN.-

[10:43:44 PM]  REDGLARE: -And dusts herself off unceremoniously.-

[10:44:18 PM]  DAD: -here he is, smiling to himself all the way over here now. But you know. Seemingly minding his own business.-

[10:44:30 PM]  REDGLARE: ...1 s33.

REDGLARE: You'r3 w4tch1ng.

[10:44:50 PM]  DAD: OLD HABITS.

[10:47:05 PM]  REDGLARE: Th4t's pr3tty good, though.

REDGLARE: 4lmost d1dn't p1ck up on 1t.

[10:47:50 PM]  DAD: I PRESUME THIS IS ANOTHER COMPLIMENT.

[10:47:57 PM]  REDGLARE: Mm.

[10:48:02 PM]  REDGLARE: Corr3ctly so.

[10:49:51 PM]  DAD: OH DEAR. -What is this. He's totally not laughing at her. James doesn't laugh. He just goes all private smiles and glinty eyes.-

[transient-tutor]

BRO: *now that davenforth is back, derek isn't SO DEPRESSED that he can barely bring himself to leave his hovel. he emerges to get back into the habit of staying in somewhat acceptable shape for shipmen duties, but decides it's best to ease into it with a stroll around the ship.*

DAD: *Little does Derek know that a certain gentlemanly friend of his has been keeping frequent tabs on him. Technically, it's not stalking if you intend on confronting the other party. Or placing yourself directly in his path as he rounds a corridor.* DEREK.

BRO: *nearly runs right into him and STARTLES* Christ in a handbasket--

BRO: What the fuck James?

BRO: I mean what the funk James?

DAD: *He is unfazed by being nearly crashed into. His stance is as sturdy as ever.* THE FUNK CAN BE FOUND IN MY UTMOST RELIEF THAT YOU HAVE FINALLY EMERGED FROM YOUR ROOM.

DAD: THERE HAS BEEN TALK OF DAVENFORTH'S RETURN. IS IT TRUE?

BRO: *rubs at the back of his neck* Yeah its true.

DAD: *It doesn't matter how or where James heard the news from. The furrow in his brow is very prominent.* AND NO HARM HAS COME TO HIM? I HAVE YET TO CROSS PATHS WITH HIM MYSELF.

BRO: Yeah yeah. *waves his hand, glancing away* Hes fine.

BRO: Hes just all shaggy and needs a trim cuz he dont work the long hair thing like I do.

DAD: *nods in agreement, crossing his arms as Derek looks away* I COULD SUPPORT ANY COLLEAGUE'S ENDEAVOR TO SEEK A HAIR TRIM. PLEASE CONVEY AN INVITATION TO SPEAK WITH ME IF HE WOULD LIKE TO COMMIT TO THE DECISION.

BRO: You can tell him yourself man. Im sure hed wanna catch up with you anyway.

DAD: *quirks one eyebrow. It's a very subtle thing.* BUT WOULD'T THAT BE DENYING THE OPPORTUNITY FROM YOU? *You know. Because you're Derek and you need to seem like you have a reason to do things in order to do things. James has studied your psyche enough, he knows what's up.*

BRO: *looks back at james just to squint at him* No.

DAD: *Why squint? James is innocently satisfied here.* THEN I WILL LOOK INTO IT.

BRO: Yeah. *grumbles and glances away again* Do that.

DAD: *James is not one who tolerates awkward silences. If there are spaces that need filled, he is the gent to do it.* YOU HAVE NOT TOLD ME HOW YOU WERE DOING.

BRO: You never asked. *crosses his arms back at him*

BRO: Im doing alright.

DAD: I HAVE BEEN CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR LACK OF PRESENCE LATELY. *Yes, straight to the point.* PERHAPS IT IS A COMMON HABIT OR PERHAPS NOT.

DAD: I WOULD LIKE TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH IT, REGARDLESS.

BRO: ... *he is confused about how that makes him feel. is he flattered? is he angry? maybe both. maybe more than that.* You obsessed with me or something?

DAD: WE ARE FRIENDS. *says, very seriously. He's a pretty serious fellow.*

BRO: *ugh, that is even MORE confusing. he's quiet for a moment.* ...

BRO: Its a pretty common habit but not necessarily normal. *shrugs*

DAD: *Finally, they were getting somewhere. James could allow himself to dial back a bit of his own intensity.* YOU SEEM LIKE THE KIND OF FELLOW WHO CAN MAKE HIMSELF AT HOME IN ANY SPACE HE OCCUPIES.

DAD: I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW-- IF, OF COURSE YOU ARE WILLING TO TELL ME. *makes very certain to add* WHETHER THERE IS SOMETHING THAT IS KEEPING YOU ABSENT, MY FRIEND.

DAD: IT IS WORRISOME.

BRO: *something about james makes him want to be more standoffish than usual, but at the same time... makes him want to open up more easily than he normally would. it's annoying.* Dont you already know?

DAD: FROM YOUR OWN WORDS, NOTHING. *Talk to him, Derek. All he wants to do is listen.*

BRO: ... *he grumbles a little more* Should we really be talking about this in the middle of the hall?

DAD: MY QUARTERS ARE NOT FAR FROM HERE IF YOU WOULD RATHER CONVENE THERE INSTEAD. *doesn't miss a beat, this man does. He is already stepping aside and gesturing that way.*

DAD: THERE ARE COOKIES AND CAKE.

BRO: *shit. he loves cake.* ... Yeah alright. *his hands find their way into his pockets and he begins to follow, shoulders shrugged. he'll do it, but he won't like it.*

DAD: *Derek is not the first surly gent James has dealt with and he certainly won't be the last. It kind of helps actually being friends with the guy. He promptly takes charge of leading them forward, feet moving smartly in the right direction. As they reach the door, James holds it open for him, welcoming him in with a wave.*

BRO: *he accepts the invitation and moves inside to swiftly find himself a seat. being here once was enough to familiarize himself with the layout and he parks it on one of the couches like he's been there a thousand times. james was pretty spot on about him being the kind to make himself at home wherever he goes.*

DAD: *has already moved off towards the mini kitchen unit he keeps in his room, piecing a slice of cake onto a fine porcelein plate for Derek. Would he like a glass of milk? He is getting one, regardless.* I HOPE YOU ARE NOT OPPOSED TO WHIPPED FROSTING ON VANILLA.

BRO: I aint picky. *give him the cake. give him the milk. he has a HUNGER. of course, this won't really help him get back into shape, but right now he doesn't give a shit. he's gonna dig right in and pretend that this is why he's here.*

DAD: EXCELLENT. *primly passes the plate and milk glass over. Don't worry, it's all low fat and 2%. James takes his own seat at the other end of the couch, sipping at some milk as well. Yum.*

DAD: *Of course, the silence is only going to work for so long. James sets the glass onto a coaster at the coffee table.* NOW.

DAD: WHAT IS ON YOUR MIND.

BRO: *chews slowly at the cake, taking his sweet time to answer that, and even when he does, he's going to be a bitch about.* Im thinkin about how damn good this cake is.

DAD: I SHALL PASS THE COMPLIMENTS ALONG TO THE CHEF. *crosses his leg with tented fingers. He is very patient.* ESPECIALLY WHEN CONSIDERING THE COMPONENTS WERE BAKED FROM SCRATCHED.

DAD: **SCRATCH

BRO: *raises a brow* And whos the chef if not you?

DAD: ...

DAD: YES. THAT WAS.

DAD: THE JOKE.

BRO: Funny.

DAD: THAT WAS THE HUMOR IN WHICH IT WAS PORTRAYED. PUN INTENDED. *Would you like to go, Mister Strider? Jokes are serious business for James.*

BRO: *HE'D MUCH RATHER BRAWL THAN TALK ABOUT FEELINGS*

BRO: *or silently eat this cake. he is being especially stubborn today.*

DAD: *Eventually, he just exhales. If Derek wanted to dance around the conflict, James would not be joining him.* ...WE NEED NOT SPEAK IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO, DEREK. I UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS DIFFICULT.

BRO: *silent as he pokes at what remains of his cake, holding the plate close to him while he's slumped in his seat.*

BRO: Whats it matter so much anyway? I know you gotta know.

BRO: And what you woulda heard is all you need to know.

DAD: *just watching him from the corner of his eye, gently removing the fedora from his head and setting it aside* BECAUSE IT IS HARBORING AN EFFECT ON YOU THAT I CANNOT BEAR TO STAND BY AND IDLY ALLOW TO CONTINUE UNADDRESSED.

DAD: THAT IS A LARGE PORTION OF WHY IT MATTERS SO MUCH.

DAD: YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY PARTY INVOLVED.

BRO: *he is having the hardest time comprehending this offer for help and his brows knit as he glances around, unsure.*

BRO: Ok but.

BRO: Why?

DAD: *continues to maintain a calm demeanor* WHY WHAT?

BRO: Why does it matter how I feel?

DAD: I FAIL TO SEE WHY IT DOES NOT. *turning to face him now, fixing him with a look that plainly said James was giving him all of his attention.*

BRO: ... *lowers the cake plate onto his lap* I just.

BRO: Fucked up.

DAD: YOU MADE A MISTAKE. *says, his tone gentle but somber* YOU DON'T NEED TO PUNISH YOURSELF OVER THE FACT, DEREK.

BRO: Yeah--

BRO: Yeah I do.

BRO: Nobody else is gonna.

BRO: Everybody just fucking lets me get away with this shit. *runs his hand over his forehead, tilting his hat back and looking away*

BRO: Roxanne deserves someone with their act together. I thought we were... I thought itd make sense.

BRO: And it did. It does. Im just... Fuck.

DAD: *The more Derek gets upset, the more reason James has to place a hand on his shoulder, squeezing it with firmness.* THE CONSEQUENCES SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES, I THINK. YOU DO NOT NEED TO HARM YOURSELF WITH THESE THOUGHTS.

DAD: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHAT YOU'VE DONE, YES... BUT DO NOT LET THE ACTION DECIDE THE KIND OF PERSON YOU ARE.

DAD: THE WAY I VIEW IT, ROXANNE DESERVES NOT SOMEONE WHO HAS THEIR ACT TOGETHER, AS YOU SAY. BUT RATHER, SOMEONE WHO WILL ACCEPT THEY ARE FLAWED AND ULTIMATELY, MAKE THE EFFORT TO OVERCOME THESE FLAWS. BECAUSE THE TWO OF YOU ARE TOGETHER.

DAD: *rubs his hand in small, reassuring circles* IF EVERY TIME WE FELL, WE BLAMED OUR OWN FAULTS FOR FALLING IN THE FIRST PLACE, WE WOULD NEVER DISCOVER THAT WE DESERVED THE OPPORTUNITY TO RISE AND WALK AGAIN. DO YOU UNDERSTAND?

BRO: *he would love to just let the hand on his shoulder soothe him, but he's too stubborn. worse yet, he's too scared. he can't accept the things being said to him. james doesn't know him the way he thinks he does. derek jerks away from him, shoving the plate onto the nearest surface and getting to his feet.*

BRO: No man. We-- We are what we do.

BRO: And this is what I fucking do.

BRO: I mighta been a decent person once but not anymore. I can try all I want but nothing changes. I cant...

BRO: I cant change. *waves his arm at james dismissively before he starts to pace, but he can't bring himself to leave.*

DAD: *continues to sit even as Derek rises to pace. It hurt to see his friend shrug him off like that but James was a very firm believer in second chances.* WHO IS IT THAT SAYS YOU CANNOT CHANGE. *the stern tone returns again*

BRO: I fuckin says! *throws his hands onto his chest as he turns back to look at james.*

BRO: Everybody keeps tryin to tell me how things are and how I am but how the fuck can anybody know better than me?

BRO: Who the FUCK ever stuck around long enough to know who I am? *goes back to pacing* The only person whos got any sorta clue is Dave but his perspective of me is so fucking warped he still somehow glorifies what a piece of shit human being I am.

DAD: BUT YOU CONTINUE TO PERCEIVE YOURSELF AS THAT PERSON. *stands also, so as to take a solid stance in the midst of Derek's rampage.* BY DOING SO, YOU ARE ENSURING THAT EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER CARED FOR YOU, SEES YOU THE SAME WAY.

DAD: YOU DO THIS TO PUSH THEM AWAY. TO PRESERVE YOURSELF. LEAVING THEM TO FEEL AS IF THEY ARE UNDESERVING OF YOUR LOVE, DEREK. *THAT* IS WHAT YOU DO.

DAD: IS THAT YOUR INTENTION? IS THAT HOW YOU WISH FOR THINGS TO CONTINUE?

BRO: I-- *oh. his emotions are a whirlwind, though anger and frustration continues to take the forefront while he lets the words sink in. his hands find their way into his tangle of hair, just to give him something to hold onto. all he can do to express himself is shake his head.*

BRO: *he has been thoroughly served.*

DAD: YOU ARE NOT A PERFECT INDIVIDUAL, BY ANY MEANS. *begins to approach him then, his expression somber. He was sorry it had to come to this confrontation but... at the same time, he felt as it if all of it was sorely needed to be said. And heard by Derek.* BUT WHY DOES THAT MEAN THAT YOU CANNOT ALLOW YOURSELF KINDNESS AND LOVE IN YOUR LIFE?

DAD: TO HAVE AND TO GIVE. *The hand finds itself on Derek's shoulder again.* THAT IS HOW THESE THINGS WORK, MY FRIEND.

BRO: *he doesn't resist the hand on his shoulder this time, allowing james steady presence to relax him. his eyes fall shut and his fingers slowly untwine from his hair.*

BRO: ... Its never worked that way.

BRO: Why should it... work now?

DAD: IT MUST HAVE WORKED. ONCE UPON A TIME.

DAD: OR YOU WOULDN'T HAVE NEITHER DIRK NOR DAVE. *Gently squeezes again*

BRO: *he can't keep it together hearing that. not that he really had it together in the first place. his shoulders sag and he moves to hide his face in his hand, a choked noise straining out of him*

BRO: ... Fuck.

DAD: *pats him with a soft exhale of breath. There, there. What else is there to do when a good friend of your's has an emotional breakdown? Pull him in for a hug of course. James has no qualms about it and he sure isn't giving Derek a choice here. It's happening. He's making it.*

BRO: *he slumps against james' shoulder, bringing one arm up to weakly return the gesture while his other arm pinned between them grasps at fabric. he's been having an awful lot of breakdowns lately, but on the plus side, it has meant a drastic increase in affectionate that he is actually allowing. lord knows he wants it and needs it, as much as he hates to admit it.*

DAD: *James gives the best smelling, warmest hugs. He runs his palms in small circles on Derek's back, hushing him, and encouraging him to ride the feelings. These things weren't ever going to be easy but still.*

DAD: ...I WOULD LIKE TO BELIEVE IN THE BEST IN YOU, DEREK. PERHAPS IT MAY NOT SHOW ITSELF TODAY. OR EVEN TOMORROW.

DAD: BUT SOME DAY, IT WILL. WE WILL SEE TO IT.

BRO: *damn. he DOES smell good and it only aids in comforting him. derek doesn't have much else to say, but at least he isn't protesting anymore.*

DAD: *Hugs on him and will continue to do so until Derek decides it's enough.* NEVERTHELESS. I AM VERY PROUD OF YOU.

BRO: *WHAT IF IT'S NEVER ENOUGH? eventually, his pride does return to him and he pulls away with a little sniff. james wasn't his brother, and this wasn't like their reunion the other day. he could only allow himself to be vulnerable for so long around anyone else.* ... Yeah.

BRO: Thanks.

DAD: *Now TWO hands are on Derek's shoulders. Two! James cracks a smile at him, indeed full of pride.* WOULD YOU LIKE SOME MORE MILK?

BRO: ... *nods slowly and pathetically like a little kid*

DAD: *James is only endeared to him and as kind as ever as he pats his shoulders. He will be moving off to fetch him some fresh milk.*

[effluentbalatron-blog]

(feferi jake dad)

feferi:

EB: doesn’t the dumb ship have an autopilot?

EB: when are you coming back?

EB: your bed is eating me, there won’t be anything left but gristle and bone by the time you get here.

EB: and the faint phantom snoring!

EB: aaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuuuuuuuuugh.

EB: hraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuugh.

EB: ect.

jake: 

EB: do you wanna come over and watch that 2016 ghost busters reboot with me?

EB: man, that was such a good idea.

EB: i’m so glad they did that.

dad:

EB: dad

EB: sorry i know it’s 3 am but

EB: how do you get babies to stop crying again?

EB: and also, biting you?

EB: i think i need stitches.

EB: and carpet cleaner.

[gulescamisade]

Minnesota:  Day 4

JAKE: -Another night is going by, he's pretty sure. And he's so sweaty, hungry, and thirsty. If their captors had left food or water for him, Jake promptly turned it down as he felt was the NATURAL THING TO DO. He heard what became of those mushroom tests from LOWAS. None of this was exactly ideal... He groans miserably, rubbing his tum of awful hunger pains. The headaches and dry throat.-

JAMES: -continuing his meditation and fasting. Energy continues to be conserved and though he is hungry, it's not the worst he's experienced. He only hopes the fact that it's gone quiet these past few hours can only be a good thing. No news is good news, James tells himself. It's the only thing he can do.-

ROXY: =Things seem quiet..... she leans against her wall and tap tap........ who's next to her. TAPS=

JAMES: -The only one who is paying attention is James. Leans back to the wall and taps in response.-

JAKE: -curled up in a ball, having cried himself into another headache nap.-

ROXY: =Baby no........ she taps out [HOLD ONTO YOUR BUTT] in morse code then POOFs over into the next cell.=

JAMES: -sitting crosslegged with his whole button up and slack combos. Professional even in these dire circumstances. James looking a little haggard what with his hair out of place, but still alert. Ready for action if need be.- ROXY.

JAMES: ....I AM RELIEVED TO SEE YOU.

JAMES: YOU ARE NOT HURT, ARE YOU?

ROXY: =She's definitely been sweating but she didn't wanna flaunt her powers too much since they expect shit of her but... she can't just. Let them go without. Whoever else is here. She rushes over to him too= glad 2 see u too im fine

ROXY: u gotta grocery list? im ur gal call me target cuz wal marts 2 trashy and im the height of supermarket class

ROXY: not whole foods class tho thats borderin in2 pretentious

JAMES: -knits his eyebrows.- ...ARE YOU OFFERING FOOD?

ROXY: anythin u need that u can hide and food definitely

JAMES: -nods promptly- WATER. DRIED FRUIT. CRACKERS. PROTEINS. ANYTHING WITH NUTRITIONAL VALUE.(edited)

ROXY: gotcha =she finger waggles up a storm dropping two sturdy sacks of water, dried fruits in thin bags along with crackers and little bite-sized pieces of protein bars=

JAMES: -seems to be wiggling something out of the sole of his shoe.-

JAMES: -as it turns out, it is a single playing card. Flips it over the supplies as kind of single-slot emergency sylladex and stores it away.-

JAMES: I CANNOT EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE. BUT QUICKLY.

JAMES: TEND TO THE OTHER PRISONERS. JAKE IS HERE.(edited)

ROXY: =That's so cool... and a good idea= hope u dont mind me stealin ur idea.....

ROXY: =gestures to the other wall= is he over here u think? =taps??? TAPS=

JAMES: IT'S QUITE POSSIBLE. -What with hearing him yowl up a storm before.-

JAMES: TREAD CAREFULLY.

ROXY: never but ill try =two finger salute and BLIPS into the cell next to James'=

JAKE: -lying huddled in his corner like a sad dog, his back turned towards the door. Something about the BLIP stirs him awake, however, and he begins to wake up. Squinting with a bleariness around.- ....Rock and rolloxy?

ROXY: .....baby...... :C

ROXY: i gotta make it quick but do u need a hug?

JAKE: -it even hurts to cry but he's doing it anyway, rolling up to sit.- Yes... 8'C

ROXY: awww cmere =quickly shuffles over to give him a big strong hug=

ROXY: tell me wut u need and we can work it out... idk where we are and idk how many of us are in here....

ROXY: idk where everyone else is

JAKE: -weeps into her shoulder. Two smelly baras hugging it out.- Ive no idea either. Its—

JAKE: Cant i know if my sons are alright?? Oh rox its so cruel.

ROXY: i... wish i knew jakey boy.... if i could id get us a thing to try n get in2 this system but... that needs time and theyd be onto me lol...... not lol

ROXY: but well get outta this mess

JAKE: -scrubs at his face, so blotched and red with tears.- Well... well bust out of here! I know we will!

JAKE: And when we do they wont even know what hit them!

JAKE: Id do so right now if you gave the word. -looks off.- Maybe...

JAKE: Someone can help us?

ROXY: maybe but right now we can help each other =cups his face and kisses his forehead= ROXY: ill go scopin later.... try 2 see whats up

ROXY: maybe i can find every1

ROXY: but rn tell me what u need

JAKE: -smiles for the first time in a few days, warmed by the gesture. But then remembers what he's doing.- Shit uhh—

JAKE: Water and substantial edibles i think is a good start. -rubs his sad empty tum.-

ROXY: its the best start =smiles back at him then gets to work just giving him the same supplies she gave James= just hide em when someone comes u kno

ROXY: prison smugglin drills

JAKE: !!!

JAKE: Cripes this is just like magic...

JAKE: ... -looks around his cell.-

JAKE: Where ought i hide it?

ROXY: mmm ..... i might hafta steal a idea i saw from james hes ur neighbor btw

ROXY: =focuses......... tries to make the one dump sylladex card= this might work i think slip it in ur mustache lol or just like somewhere discreet

JAKE: Holy moly! -accepts the 1 dump sylladex card if she manages it.- Is this what i think it is?

JAKE: -Automatically believing that it's a 1 dump sylladex card so whether she DOES manage it, the card is already what she intends it to be.-

JAKE: -giving it a look over- :D

JAKE: -tucks it into the safety of his back pocket. Sitting on it now.-

ROXY: =bless u jake= good beans bby

ROXY: ill be back sometime keep ur spirits up ok?

JAKE: Yes ma am o whamma! -salutes her swiftfly. His spirits are in much better places than they were before.-

ROXY: good! =poof, she's outta there=

JAKE: -brimming with hope now and makes swift work of these dried fruits. Chugs what he can of the water.-

JAKE: -wiping off his mustache, he feels his willpower RENEWED. Better than ever.-

JAKE: -And if Roxy can pull her magic off, why the blazes can't he??? Jake rolls to stand, channeling that spark of hope to manifestation.-

(DIRK): -he puts the MAN in MANIFEST. extends leg, here is brain ghost dirk.-

(DIRK): Hey, that's the first time you summoned me consciously and not as the result of a homoerotic fantasy. Good job.

JAKE: -jumps as his voice comes up but brightens his scruffy self up immediately.- Dirk!

JAKE: Brain ghost! Youre here!

(DIRK): Yeah.

(DIRK): What are you gonna do with me now that I'm here? -lol and then what-

JAKE: -swiftly whaps the ishades off his face.- Give me that!

(DIRK): What the fuck. -covers his face. DON'T LOOK AT ME. he's being ironic mostly-

JAKE: -thrusting them onto his own face. Instant computer.- Hoo. Alright now. I need to contact the crew.

JAKE: Mind if i hornswoggle you of your pester client? Of course you do! -logging into his account.-

(DIRK): My pester client is imaginary, but alright.

JAKE: Huh? No its not? -It's not, Dirk. Look at it working. How??? Magic is how.-

(DIRK): -fucking incredible-

(DIRK): -obnoxiously hovers behind him-

(DIRK): It's almost like you have the ability to make anything a reality.

JAKE: -typing frantically, heart hammering as it actually DOES seem to work.- Shut up will you???

(DIRK): A dude summons you into his realm of existance just to tell you to shut up. Nice one.

JAKE: -Seeing everyone online makes his insides lurch painfully so he's only half paying attention to BGD. His franticness making his eyes water again as in the middle of the message, the connection severs.- Its—

JAKE: Its breaking up! -says with his concentration fizzling.-

(DIRK): Well don't give up.

(DIRK): Do something about it.

JAKE: Im trying damn you! Cant you see?? -says, clutching at the shades.-

(DIRK): And I'm telling you to try harder.

(DIRK): You have it in you to do this.

JAKE: -practically choking with frustration and wills the last bit of connection out of sheer spite. The last message gets through before cutting off completely.-

(DIRK): ...

(DIRK): There you go.

JAKE: -He is just never going to stop being tearstruck at this point. Obligatorily hands BGD his shades.-

JAKE: -His vision is swimming as his hand drops, looking at brain ghost now. Dirk knows Jake loves him doesn't he? Of course he does, a voice tells Jake predictably. It's what he wants to hear, it's the truth that he knows deep down in his heart and it's what BGD was basically scripted to say.-

JAKE: -So why was he still so miserable? He's gotta ask anyway.-

JAKE: He knows i love him right? Id do anything for him?

(DIRK): ... Of course he knows that.

(DIRK): He's probably driving himself up a wall cuz he can't tell you the same thing.

JAKE: -wipes at his nose.- I miss him something tremendous.

JAKE: You would think dodging near death experiences on a regular basis would make this easier to bear. But it doesnt.

JAKE: It really doesnt.

(DIRK): They're coming for you, you know. -he knows this because jake has to know this.-

(DIRK): ... -offers jake his hand to hold-

JAKE: -takes the hand, too dried up to cry in earnest anymore. His shoulders only sag.- At least i have you.

(DIRK): You'll always have me.

JAKE: -keeps their fingers twined together but gives up once their shoulders brush. Just rests his head against BGD, tired all over again.- Jeez louise dirk....

JAKE: Youre always so.

JAKE: You.

(DIRK): It's no coincidence. -leans on him too-

(DIRK): That's the way you want me to be.

JAKE: Shucks. Then i must be stock full of good ideas. -lets his eyes start to drift closed...-

(DIRK): Must be. -yes shhh sleep. it'll get better soon. just believe in that, jake-

JAKE: -having close company to fall asleep with is infitintely better than sleeping alone. Jake has decided this here and now.- 

[gulescamisade]

Minnesota:  Day 2

JAKE: -He stirs awake... still slumped on the ground and very much imprisoned.- JAKE: ... -eyes water a little bit because none of this turned out to be a bad dream. And so. Time drags on. Jake dozes off again.-

CALIBORN: -jake might wake up again to the sound of coughing and hacking and wheezing. and of course, loud whining.- uGGHHHH.

JAKE: -he does wake up to this, abeit reluctantly. His head feels like it's full of cement from sleeping too long while his belly is definitely on Empty. The tum growls and threatens to block out the distant wheezings.-

JAKE: -crawls up to the door and listens.- ...

JAKE: -BANG BANG BANGS his fist on the door.- HELLOOOOOOOOOOOO?

JAKE: -tries it in morse code too, while he's at it.- .... . .-.. .-.. --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ..--.. -Translation: HELLOOOOOOOOOOOO?-

JAMES: -He sits, continuing his meditations. At the sound of knocking, James moves closer to the door and likewise listens. And then raps his knuckles.-

JAMES: - .... .. ... / .. ... / .--- .- -- . ... / . --. -... . .-. - .-.-.- / .--- .- -.- . .-.-.- / .. ... / - .... .- - / -.-- --- ..- ..--.. -Translation: THIS IS JAMES EGBERT. JAKE. IS THAT YOU?-

JAKE: -Startles when he hears someone answering back and goes back to rapping his fist, fast as he can get the words out. Hope flutters in his chest.- .--- .- -- . ... / --. --- .-.. .-.. -.-- / --- .-.. -.. / -.. --- .-.. .-.. -.-- / .- -- / .. / .-. . .-.. .. . ...- . -.. / - --- / .... . .- .-. / ..-. .-. --- -- / -.-- --- ..- / .-- .... . .-. . / .- .-. . / -.-- --- ..- ..--.. ..--.. [ JAMES GOLLY OLD DOLLY AM I RELIEVED TO HEAR FROM YOU WHERE ARE YOU?? ]

JAKE: .- .-. . / -.-- --- ..- / ... .. -.-. -.- ..--.. [ARE YOU SICK??]

CALIBORN: WHO THE FuCK KEEPS TAPPING? STOP THAT SHIT IMMEDIATELY. I COMMAND YOuu-- -wheeeeeeeeeze cough-

JAMES: -pauses to listen before replying.- .. / .- -- / -. --- - / .. .-.. .-.. .-.-.- / ... --- .-.. .. - .- .-. -.-- / -.-. --- -. ..-. .. -. . -- . -. - .-.-.- / .-- . / .- .-. . / -. --- - / .- .-.. --- -. . .-.-.- [ I AM NOT ILL. SOLITARY CONFINEMENT. WE ARE NOT ALONE. ]

CALIBORN: I CAN DO THAT TOO! WATCH! -aggressively tapping nonsense-

JAKE: CALIBORN! BUDDY?? CAN YOU HEAR ME??? -hollers, attempting to stick his face by the door slot. It's closed but damn does he try anyway.-

CALIBORN: JAKE? YOu'RE THE IDIOT MAKING ALL THE RACKET? HA! I MIGHT HAVE KNOWN. -slumps against a wall-

JAKE: YEAH CALIBRO. ITS ME THE ONE AND ONLY! -Guh. All this yelling and crying with no water is really taking a number on his throat. He rubs it, idly.- ARE YOU ALRIGHT? IS IT—

JAKE: FUCK.

JAKE: YOURE AWAY FROM GRANDMAS TESTS. -says it, realizing the actual gravity of this and slumps against his door too.- >8'|

CALIBORN: NO SHIT! BuT IT DOESN'T MATTER. I DON'T NEED-- HHH. I DON'T NEED TO BE HOOKED uP. TO ANY MACHINE.

JAMES: -Quietly thinking against asking a hairless serpentine alien or Jake "the Animal" English whether either of them are carrying a razor and shaving cream.-

JADE: -there's a BARK from somewhere that might be nearby. There sure is a lot of racket going on around here.-

CALIBORN: FuCK YOu, DOGGY BITCH!

JAKE: Doh... -tap tap tap to James.- [CALIBORN IS SICK...]

JAKE: SAY NOW. DONT TAKE THAT TONE OF VOICE WITH HER.

JAKE: DEAR SWEET JADE DOESNT KNOW BETTER!

JADE: -slides Jake's slot open.- on the contrary jake

JADE: i know better than all of you

JADE: and i dont appreciate disrespect -slides the slot shut once again-

JAKE: -his face was right in the door slot just >8o –

JAKE: WELL I LOVE YOU TOO YOU SWEET BLOSSOMING SUNFLOWER YOU. JAKE: IM NOT SCARED OF YOU!!!!

JADE: -WELL THAT'S TOO BAD, because she's zapping into the cell with Caliborn, growling fiercely.-

CALIBORN: -flinches at her sudden appearance, but grits his teeth at her and tries to make himself look BIG. he can't really get up, weak and useless from where he sits.- WHAT DO YOu WANT?

JADE: what do i want?

JADE: how about.......

JADE: i test out a new power on you? that sounds perfect

CALIBORN: OR HOW ABOuT. YOu GO FuCK YOuRSELF, IN THE DISGuSTING WAY, THAT YOu HuMANS DO? -definitely not freaked out right now-

JADE: BARK

CALIBORN: BARK!!! -barks back??? he doesn't know what else to do.-

JADE: are you mocking me????

CALIBORN: YES!!!

JAKE: HEY NOW! YOU TWO! STOP YOUR SCRABBLING THIS INSTANT! -yells. Yes, he is TOUGH and attempting to dad thru a door.-(edited)

JADE: then i hope you know how to apologize

JADE: -She holds out a hand in a shape that too closely resembles claws, and then the two of them are swallowed up by another surge of blinding green power before they're gone entirely.-

CALIBORN: -tumuts into nothingness-

JAKE: ??????????????????????????????? -He understands nothing! And howls in frustration.-

[gulescamisade]

Minnesota:  Day 1

[Jake, Roxy, James, and the cherubs will find themselves in individual cells with singular windows and slots in their doors.]

JAKE: -YODEL LANDS in his own cell, completely thrown out of sorts after he lost sight of everything in the crackle of green energy. Tumbles largely, panicked and fearful. Everything happened so fast, Jake was so sure he was raring in the engineering labs a second ago! Sits on the ground stupidly as he lands right on his ass.- OOF.

JAKE: WHAT THE—

JAKE: WHAT THE JIP JUMPING JACK CRACKERS JUST HAPPENED??? ANYBODY? -cries out to nobody in particular. He was alone... and immediately starts checking for his sylladex.-

JAMES: -thrown off balance as he lands precisely in the center of this cell. When he blinks the light out of his sight, James goes to check for his sylladex. John's voice still rings in his ears and he has to see... can he message anyone? Does he have his communicator? He is massively worried right now.-

JAMES: -For that matter, can James hear Jake yowling in the distance?-

ROXY: =loudly= MMMMMMMMMOHMYGOD

[No communicators can be found on anyone in this group. Looks like they got boned in the midst of travel.]

[The yowling is vaguely audible.]

JANE: -slides open the slot on Jake's door, peering inside.- Looking for something?

JAKE: -Was halfway to scrambling to his feet when the face appears. He gawks and then falls back on his ass.-

JAKE: My pistols you scarlet faced o hera! And i dont mean to be rude madam but—

JAKE: I dont take it youre here to jostle the keyhole HUH??? -Jake... why do you words.-

JANE: No. I'm not.

JANE: You have been carefully chosen for an important role in my new empire. Your mouth leaves much to be desired in the face of your nigh limitless potential.

JAKE: Your empire?? NOW WAIT JUST A DIDDLY DARN MOMENT MISSY. -scrambles to his feet, going for the window with a large puffed chest.-

JAKE: Ill run my mouth all i like as far as im concerned! Youre keeping A FREE THINKING MAN captive for some nefarious purpose! I think ill speak my piece!!!! >8V

JANE: -Casually shuts the door window with a satisfying THUNK.-

JAKE: -There was NOTHING satisfying about this thunking. NOTHING.-

JANE: Oh, Jake... -walks away-

JAMES: -Was that Jane? James cautions a peek through the window, hoping to catch a glance of her.-

JAKE: -goes back to charlie brown AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAURGHing.-

JAMES: ...

JAMES: -shuffles at the door. Unhappy that he cannot reach the crying infant man.-

ROXY: =Same..... she wants to get through these walls or in the hall.. what's in the hall?=

JADE: -Seems like SHE'S in the hall. Growling outside Roxy's door and then she slides something under it before opening the door window.-

JADE: woof

ROXY: ..... =She was gonna try to poof in the hall but it seems like... that's a bad idea right now..... glances down=

ROXY: ok

ROXY: are u gonna boof @ me or like..... =squints= wtf happened 2 you baby :'(

JADE: i am just fine, roxy

JADE: in fact i am feeling better than ever

JADE: but what happened to me isnt the issue here

JADE: whats relevant is whats happening to you, or rather, what it means you will be doing for her imperious condescension

JAKE: -hears the muffle of voices thru the door and 👂straining to hear.-

ROXY: o hell to the en oh

ROXY: im not doin shit for her especially since its like super glarin'ly obvi that this is some dumb shit cooked up by her lackies >:(

JAKE: -bangs at the door.- ROXAROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! -awoo...-

ROXY: AND shes got my animals caged up like ANIMALS and this is a shituation i give a big fuck u to

JADE: sorry, but that answer isnt in the cards

JADE: it doesnt matter what you want to do because you dont have a choice

JADE: open the file

ROXY: =Makes such a stank face, looks at the file= stfu condy

ROXY: =She'll get him and everyone else out of here.... picks up the file and opens it=

JADE: -GLITTER FLIES EVERYWHERE. It's a heavily blinged piece of fileage.-

JADE: -Inside is a picture of a weird knobbly spike ball, and instructions that more or less read that Roxy needs to make it.-

JAKE: -sits his butt at the edge of his cell, screwing up his eyes. Come oooon hope powers. Hope powers GO. Go nOW.-

JAKE: ...

JAKE: -Nothing happens. He's too worked up and as he opens his eyes, the walls seem to close in on him. Jake huffs, trying his damndest not to think about other things that are rushing to him suddenly. If he was safe, where was everyone else? What if they were hurt and there was nothing Jake could do?? Nothing except---

JAKE: Sniff. 8'( -starts to blubber to himself and hugs his knees now that the bravado was fading.- (Boo hoo...)

ROXY: >:T

ROXY: tf is this shit

JADE: its your new job

JADE: to make the matriorb

ROXY: =opens her mouth= .... see i cant even like say my nastyass snappy comebacks because i love jade 2 much >:'C

ROXY: the gist is.... suck a butt

JADE: dont worry, im pretty sure i can take them

JADE: though i wouldnt advise doing so anyway

JADE: you may have reservations but i have none

JADE: and i dont think youd like me much when im angry >:K

JADE: in fact im sure of it

ROXY: then tell me who alls here and ill do my best

JADE: sorry, but thats not part of the agreement either

JADE: how about you do your best and i wont zap your eyes out?

ROXY: like i wouldnt look badass with robo eyes >:T

JADE: im sure you have plenty of other organs you would miss

ROXY: =sinks under the view of the window.... almost catknifing= like u miss whatever tf this thing is?

JADE: that doesnt matter!

JADE: it isnt such a bad deal to obey

JADE: with your powers, im sure things will be just fine for you

JADE: and i wont have to hunt down the rest of your friends where i dumped them and make you watch them bleed out, either

JADE: dont worry, i can wait until you get started

JADE: or at least until i start to get hungry......

ROXY: =Oh no... her weakness... her friends= tch

ROXY: then ill make u snausages or whatever tf...... ill C wut i can DO

JAKE: -curled up in a large ball back in his cell and slumps over. Gently crying himself a sweater a tears. He's crying but cheering for u, Rox.-

JADE: good

JADE: thats what i like to hear

ROXY: i kno snausages are like ur fav

JADE: BARK

JAMES: ....

JAMES: -squints at the cieling as he hears a bark.-

ROXY: that means jades still in there....

JADE: grr

JADE: im jade

JADE: a better and worse jade than youve ever known

ROXY: a worse worse jade

JADE: thats right

JAKE: -huddled up and drops into an uneasy sleep. Maybe things will be better... when he wakes up. This is all a bad dream.-

JAMES: -sits and waits quietly. Still having no idea what the hullabaloo this is all about. But he will be STRONG for the sake of others who are probably worried about him.-