*label j_kiddo "Um... Are you jokeing? I ask. "No. No, I'm not. "Um... I do want to live? "Good. Hopeing you would say that. All we need is you having a deathwish, on top of everything else... So? That being the case. I will keep that to myself, if you don't mind? "Ok? I say. Cause. What do you say to... That? "Look at ${mc_their}. ${j_name} cackles, before cutting herself short. Sorry. Ugg... Sorry. I'm not used to. Well. Most of the people I hang out with are. A wee bit... messed up? Shall we say? Now. Moveing on. Shall we? Though. A bit of wide-eyed horror, is always welcom at some point. Yes? Don't, answer that. ${n_name} chortles in the backround. "So? I say, worry still clawing around my heart. "Your good, ${mc_first}. ${d_name} pipes up. Your not a suspect, now. "You are no longer a suspect. ${l_name} agrees. "I found nothing that would leade me to beleave that you are guilty. ${t_name} says. "Stretch back a little more. Won't you? I want a better view. ${n_name} says. "${n_name}? ${l_name}'s tone is a warning. "What? "Not now, either of you. ${t_name} sighs. *choice #"So. What was. That? *set charming %+10 *set mind %+10 *set pragmatic %+10 "So. What was. That? I ask, tentativly. Half-expecting them to 1? Refuse, or 2. Give the bare minimum. After all. I'm not part of their team, and it has been made. Very much clear to me, that I'm some sort of thret. You don't give sensative infermation, to threts, after all. "Nothing you need know about, now. ${t_name} replies, tone flat. However? It did confirm, that you are no-longer under suspission. Well. I think. 2 it is, then? Huh... *goto objection2 #I do not comment. *set mind %+10 *set cautious %+10 I don't comment. It doesn't matter, at least? Not, now. *goto objection2 #Thank you for that, ${l_name}. I deadpan. *set sarcastic %%+10 *set l_relationship %+1 "Thank you for that observation, ${l_name}. I deadpan, though I am happy about it? It's just... Sarcasm... "You are welcom. I hear, in a tone that leades me to believe that the ${l_person} has done the anolog of takeing an airplain over a world war 1 trench, as it comes to realizeing that I am being sarcastic. Or? In other words? Missing it by about a dozen country miles, or so. *goto objection2 *label objection2 "Now that that is out of the way. ${t_name} says. If you would. Kindly open the crate? It is, in front of you. "But. I thought... You braught it all the way down here? I say, turning in confusion to *if (t_take_crate) =true *goto t_explenation *elseif (l_take_crate) =true *goto l_explenation *elseif (n_take_crate) =true *goto n_explenation *elseif (d_take_crate) =true *goto d_explenation *label t_explenation ${t_name}. "Whyed you... "The crate is an unknown quantaty. ${t_name}'s tone is businesslike. I was not going to let it remaine inside. My, facility? Without knowing what was inside. I followed the instructions, because it was the path of least resistance. Also, because at the time? You were an unknown. Now? At least with this? You are not. Now. If you would. Kindly open the crate? It is, in front of you. *goto open_crate *label l_explenation ${l_name}, opening my mouth, but am cut off. "Do you think. I was going to let an unknown crate, remaine inside this facility? You, were, according to the instructions. The only one who could open it. So? Once you were proven innasint. Not that I believed you had to do with the trouble caused in the first place? But I had to be sure. I hoped that you would open it. Will you please open the crate, so we can return to. Well. Normal, now? *goto open_crate *label n_explenation ${n_name}. What? "Team needed the crate back down here. Anyway. I'm not letting something potencially leathel remaine anywhere near this unit, if I can do something to get it away. . . . "Your not included in this, cause your not part of this unit. Now. Open the crate. I feel ${n_name}'s hand in the small of my back, prodding me forward. *goto open_crate *label d_explenation ${d_name}, opening my mouth, but am cut off before I can speak. "I checked. Multiple times. It's geen-locked to you? And, you, alone. So. You, had to open it. We decided to do it here. In a controled environment. Anyway. Seemed a bit wasteful, to make you walk all the way back to your room, when you didn't have to. Right? I blink, blink, shake my head, before I feel a small hand pat my cheek. "When you come out of. What ever that is? Kindly go open the crate? I really, really, really really want to see what's so important they deemed it nessessary to put it behind a tier 11, genetic lock. *goto open_crate *label open_crate With that? I stand, moveing slowly forward, till my shin impacts something. I stop? Leaning down, to feel a large flat surface. Swiftly running my hands around, I find that the flat surface, is the lid of a large, old-style trunk. It's wooden, with thick bands of iron across the lid. I? Try to pull it. Then remember that it's, according to *if (t_take_crate true ${t_name}? *goto open_crate2 *elseif (l_take_crate true ${l_name}? *goto open_crate2 *elseif (n_take_crate true ${n_name}? *goto open_crate2 *elseif (d_take_crate true ${d_name}? *goto open_crate2 *label open_crate2 said it's much too heavy for me to move, and feel stupid. Then? I feel the crate, shift, ever so slightly. I, ignore that for the moment, and continue to look for anything else strange about the trunk. "Wate. ${j_name} says. . . . "Ok. It's online. You can open it, now. I? After another few seconds, find the hinges, then, across from those? I find a small handle, and flip the lid back. Expecting... Something? What ever I expected? I don't get it. . . . . "Clothes? ${d_name} sounds very much confused, and somewhat annoyed. They put a genetic lock that I couldn't crack on a box, full of. Clothes? Not even special ones? Just... Normal, clothes? I? Curious, decideing to ignore the genetic lock stuff for now, move forward, feeling into the box. I feel. Socks, underpants, and. Yeah. Basicly clothes. Shoveing my hand to the elbow, I find more clothes. To the shoulder? I find more clothes, till my fingertips scrape the wooden bottem. Thoroughly confused? I pull my arm back out, and take a step back. As I do? I dislodge a shirt, which falls to the floor on my foot. "Eu! ${d_name} squeels. Dibs! "That is not. Yours. ${j_name} deadpans. "What would I need with... I mutter. I don't even know if any of these even fit... I hear a soft noise, like paper hitting something. Reaching out? I grab at it, but another hand gets there faster. "What are these. ${d_name} asks, as I hear the crinkle of paper. Dots? Feels like some sort of sandpaper... "${d_name}? Give that to me, please? ${l_name} says. There is a ruffling sound, then. *if (highest_relationship) ="l_relationship" "All the clothes herein this trunk fit the one known as, ${mc_fullname}? I hear ${l_name} mutter, sounding perplexed. Even that shirt, that ${d_fullname} has just called dibs on. Signed, with regards. G " Well? I guess that answers your question at least, ${mc_first}. ${d_name} says. *goto crate_blink *else "I know brail. ${l_name} sounds miffed. But? I can't make heads or tales of this... You can read brail, can't you ${mc_first}? At my nod? I feel a single sheet of paper land on my arm. I grab it with my other hand, flip it around twice to get it orianted right-side up? Then start to reed: "All the clothes herein this trunk, fit you, ${mc_fullname}. Even that shirt that's on your foot. The one ${d_name} called dibs on. Your welcom. Signed, G. P.S Kindly practice your brail skills? My arm is cramping while I am writeing this, and it herts like a B... I mean. It is. Uncomfortable. Anyway. Yeah! So. Do that. . . "So. ${d_name} starts. *goto crate_blink *label crate_blink Can I have that shirt? Please? Please? Please? "You don't need another. ${n_name} growls, but ${d_name} just steemroles right on over the other ${n_person}. "It's so qute. With, you know. Stuff on it. So. Can I have it? Please? I'l get you another one. Promice! "You going to be the one measureing ${mc_them} for the new shirt? ${n_name} asks. "No? "I can. Wouldn't mind. ${d_name} makes a pfft, noise, but does not otherwise reply. *choice #"Yeah. I say with a grin. If you want it? I shrug. *set d_relationship %+5 *set easyGoing %+10 *set friendly %+10 *set sentimental %+10 "Yeah. I say with a smile and a shrug. If you want it? Well... "Thankyou! ${d_name} squeels, before the shirt is snatched off my feet. "Thanks! Thanks! Thanks! ${d_name} trills, drawing a warm grin from me, regardless of my general fealings about the ${d_person}. "I'l buy another one! Promice! *set d_shirt true *goto crate_fade #"No. I say. I. Don't really have anything else? *set d_relationship %-3 *set pragmatic %+10 *set mind %+10 "You have. Soooo, many clothes. ${d_name} mutters. You can't give up 1 little. Teeny. Tiney. Ity bitty. Shirt? "Leave off, ${n_name} grunts. I will take you to the mall and buy you a bunch of shirts. "But... I want that, shirt? ${d_name} mutters. "Fine... Fine... Keep the shirt, then... Not like I spent half an hour makeing sure the thing wouldn't blow part of you off when you opened it... I actually care, you know? Like. Actually? Everyone else is just wateing till you explode. I don't think you will explode. "${mc_they} will. ${n_name} says, if I have anything to do about it. "Not! That! Way! ${d_name} snaps. Is Everything? "Yes. The answer to that question? Is. Yes, ${d_name}. You should know that, by now. "Your... Not, dadorible! "Never wanted to be, ${d_name}. Never wanted to be... *goto crate_fade *label crate_fade "Um... Why's the crate fadeing? I hear ${d_name} ask, before I feel a hand grip my arm, gerking me back, away from the crate. The hand vanishes almost emediatly. Um... It's gone, now? Also? It took all the clothes? All the nice clothes! Those were nice clothes! "That. ${l_name} deadpans. Is not supposed to happen. Also. Those wern't yours? "We could have traded? "Why would ${mc_first} want any of those. Sparkly eye-sore things that you like? "I could have built ${mc_them} something custom! "You think? ${n_name} growls. It's gone, anyway, now. No point in. What ever it is your currently indulging in, ${d_name}. *if (highest_relationship) ="t_relationship" *goto t_unsettled *elseif (highest_relationship) ="l_relationship" *goto l_unsettled *elseif (highest_relationship) ="n_relationship" *goto n_perplexed *elseif (highest_relationship) ="d_relationship" *goto d_perplexed *label t_perplexed "What is. "Return to beacon. ${t_name}'s voice snaps out, hard, now. Cold. Why is noone else seeing this? You are all looking at the same spot I am. "Seeing. What? ${l_name} asks. We can't see anything, ${t_name}. We are all looking at the same place you are. There is? Nothing there. At least, for me, anyway. Everyone else in the room. ${j_name} included? Makes various agreement noises. "It is? Gone, now. ${t_name} says, tone thoroughly unsettled. *goto crate_vanish *label l_unsettled "Return to beaken? ${l_name}'s rather confused tone comes from my left. "Parden? ${t_name} asks. I can see nothing, ${l_name} The rest of the team, ${j_name} included? Indicates their agreement. "How can you not see it? It's in neon foot tall script. ${l_name} says, sounding thoroughly confused, and somewhat unsettled. Then I hear a low growl from ${n_name}. "No. ${l_name} says. It does not have to do with ${mc_first}. "You are surten? ${n_name}'s tone indicateing ${n_their} disagreement with this. "I am. ${l_name}'s tone, on the other hand? Is surten. ${n_name} grunts, then. "As always. I will follow you. If you don't think *if (n_relationship) >=60 ${mc_first}? *goto n_displeasure *else the Seaker? *goto n_displeasure *label n_displeasure I will trust your judgement. "As always. Thank you, ${n_name}. ${l_name}'s voice and tone are soft, now. Genuin? ${n_name} does not reply. *goto crate_vanish *label n_unsettled "Return to beacon. ${n_name} growls. ${l_name}? Do you know what that means? Anything I am missing? I can't think of anything off the top of my head, though it's in. Neon, foot-tall letters. "${n_name}? I don't see anything. You are just looking at a patch of empty air. "Anyone else see what I am seeing. ${n_name} says, tone frusttrated. The rest of the room replies, in their own way, in the negative. What the. ${n_name} curses, before I feel a flare of chill. "${n_name}?Calm down. ${l_name}'s tone has sharpened, now. Your flareing. I step backwards, trying to get out of the dam cold zone, before stumbling, and starting to fall. Only for a hand, more like a claw, to grab my arm. I yowl, as the cold increases 10 fold, starting to drill into my hand. ${n_name}! ${l_name}, ${d_name} and ${t_name} all bark in unison, just as I start feeling the warmth, leatched from me. By, the hand that is currently holding me. I? Pradictibly? Try to yank free. It doesn't work. "What? "Look at. ${l_name} growls. "O... There is. Something? I realizeing that there is a pressure, comeing from ${n_name}, who is the one currently holding me upright, before. Warmth floods me. The hand lets go, and I promptly fall towards the floor, before a large hand catches me by the other arm, easing me into a chair. I collapse into it, shivering. "What. I grunt, after a full minute, freezing arms firmly rapped around my freezing torso. Was. That? "Mistake. ${n_name} grunts. Will not happen again. Your not dead? "Um... No? "Good. I'm going back to my chair now. Stay here. I. Nod? Then hear ${n_name} moveing away. *temp deathclaw true *goto crate_vanish *label d_confusion "Return to beacon. ${d_name} murmers. What is... Anyone else seeing this? "No. ${t_name} says, soon followed by the rest of the group. "Your serious? "We can see nothing, ${d_name}. ${t_name} says. "That's... ${d_name} mutters. *goto crate_vanish *label crate_vanish "It's gone, now. ${t_name} says. ${n_name} grunts. ${l_name} mutters something about things like that should not be able to happen. ${d_name} mutters something about the waste of time ${d_they} has now experienced, then starts wondering why ${d_they} didn't notice the in-built teleport system in the crate during ${d_their} examonation. "So. ${l_name} asks. What now? "We can do nothing. ${t_name} says. Now. *choice #"Um... I say, worried I am going to be blaimed for this, considering... *set impulsive %+10 *set heart %+10 "Um... I say, worried that I'm going to get blaimed for this or something? Am I? "You are not blaimed for this. ${t_name}'s tone is hard, though the voice is soft. Cutting through my question. This? Is not your doing. I grunt, relaxing slightly. "Why would you believe that we would blaim you on this? I shrug. "Well? This hole crate... I shrug once more. "Unless we find facts to the contrary. ${t_name}'s tone brooks no argument. We hold you blaimless, for this. I? Nod. *goto ask_origins #I do not speak up. *set cautious %+10 *set mind %+10 I don't speak up. If there going to blaim me for this? Well. They will tel me soon enough. Right? *goto ask_origins *label ask_oragins "So. ${d_name} chirps. Where are you from, ${mc_first}? Now all that with the trial and that is over and all. You have an odd accent. I have never herd it before? "${mc_they} is. ${l_name} starts, then goes silant, before. ${mc_first}? I apollogize. ${d_they} asked you? Not, me. I will let you field it. Field? How does. ${d_name} starts. Doesn't that involve a ball? I don't think ${j_name} will let go of that ball, now. She tucked it away, and when she does that? Well. We all saw what that Yetty looked like after she tried to get that choclit off her when she tucked it away for her kid. Yes? There are, collective grunts, and other noises of agreement from around the room. I? Just nod. "Figure of speach. ${n_name} speaks up. It's not an actual field, ${d_name}. ${d_name} grunts. *choice #"No apoligy nessessary. I say with a shrug. *set l_relationship %+3 *set easyGoing %+10 *set friendly %+10 "No apoligy nessessary. I say with a shrug. Though, I would like to. Well. Field the question, as you say? "Thank you for that, ${mc_first}. However? I will, stay quiet through this conversation, now, I think. I nod, shrugging again. *goto ware_from #I nod, turning my atencion back to the question at hand. *set stubborn %+10 *set reserved %+10 I nod, then turn back to the question at hand. *goto ware_from #"That's a good question, ${d_name}. *set sarcastic %+10 *set d_relationship %+3 "That's a good question, ${d_name}. I say with a slight smirk. Let me enlighten you. Shall I? "Ok? I hear in reply. What? I think. What would you lot do? If you. A spike of blinding paine blasts through my skull. I go rigid for a second, the paine too much to even scream. Then... "Easy. I hear close to my ear, before ${j_name}'s hand presses against my forehead. Don't think. Thinking makes it hert more. Should fade in a second. "Huh? What? I grunt, shakeing my head. O, yeah. From? Places? Yes? Talk, now. Talk... There is a grunt, then footfalls moveing away. ${j_fullname}'s, by the sounds? I. Think? Also, distance from me. *goto ware_from #What Yetty? I ask, mind latching onto that. *set n_relationship %+3 *set impulsive %+10 "What Yetty? I ask, mind locking onto that word. "Well? ${n_name} says, sounding excited. It's not really a Yetty, anymore. ${j_name}. Does not take theft. At all. Lightly. "I only did what I did? ${j_name} says, sounding a little sheepish? Because we were hunting her at the time. "You shot her in the chest 12 times, then cut her head off with that knife you always carry. ${n_name} counters. "She threttoned you. "We are Vampires. ${t_name} speaks, I notice near a corner. As much as it warms all of our hearts to here you say that? We are capeable of defending ourselves. "I know that, ${t_name}. ${j_name}'s voice soffens. But? Well. Let's just say? I have lost family. I will not lose more. Weather they be soopernatural? Human? Offworlder, or any other designation. So. If ${n_name} makes me feel bad you will kick ${n_them}? ${d_name} asks. "No. Intra-unit disputes are outside my pervue. If a member of another unit were to assault you? I would get involved. Then. "Awwww. I wanted to sick you on something! Not that I ever would? But... "You could ask ${z_name}. ${z_name}, being ${z_name}? I suspect he would have little problem with, as you put it? Being. Sicked, on something. Or? Someone. "You know my views on ${z_name}. ${d_name}'s tone growls cold. Hard. "My apoligies. "Unnessessary. I did start it, after all. Now. ${mc_first}? Could you please let me sate my curiosity, and tell me where your from? "Just yoour curiosity? ${n_name} deadpans from the other side of the table. "Is it always? ${d_name} starts. "We already established that it is. ${n_name} cuts ${d_them} off. What do you want from ${mc_first},, then? ${d_name} grumbles. "The voices in my head stop for a copple of hours. ${n_name}'s voice is flat. Tone, flat. Everything really, flat. . . . . "I... Didn't think... "You asked. I? Answered honestly. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Now? Shut up about it. You. Tell us where your from. ${n_name} grunts. *temp n_screams true *goto ware_from *label ware_from "I'm from Canada. I say. Spasificly? Ontario. "O! ${d_name} sounds excited. So. That snowy place above the states? Never met anyone from there. Well. Anyone I could pick the brain of, anyway. Think there was an operator from there? Something. "Sorry sonic cannon. Mark 5, reference number... ${l_name} supplies. "O... Yeah... I hated that. "We all. Hated that dam cannon, ${n_name} growls. It was shooting at us. Remember? We tend to hate things that shoot, at us. ${t_name} took it out, though. "I simply removed it's power sorce. ${t_name} says. "The thing exploded. ${n_name} argues. "It threttoned the unnit. So? It had to be removed. I simply insured that it would? Not do so, again. No personell were killed. I removed them all to precinct custaty, except for the 2 hunters, which were remanded to Agency, custaty. "Can I pick your brain? Please? I have so many questions! First being. Sorry cannon? Howed that sttart up? It was a. Stariotype? But... What exactly is... Well. That? ${d_name} all but squeels. *page_break. What. The. Actual. Fuck? . . . *page_break Am I wrong? I must be wrong? How? What. The actual. Actual? Fuck? . . *page_break Am I wrong? Did I get the accent wrong? WTF?WTF?WTF? I'm starting to hope I just got the accent wrong... . . . "Shit. I hear ${n_name} growl, followed by the squeek of a chair, and a sigh, from ${l_name}. "Wha? Is the only thing I can choak out, after a full 6 seconds of silence. "Arn't I right? ${d_name} says, voice still sounding like a kid at a kandy shop. It is, mostly snowy, and mostly above the states. Right? Also. That cannon did come from there. Right? It had a leaf on it. I think? Grabbed the DCal after everything was said and done. *goto mc_answers *label mc_answers *choice #"hehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehhehheh *set friendly %+10 *set heart %+10 *set impulsive %+15 *set d_relationship %+3 "heheheheheheheheheheheheheheh. I ttry to open my mouth? But... The laughter cuts off any words I might have said. Anything noises, I mightt have uttered. *goto machine #"Wate. I say, slowly. Trying to act calm, here. What? *set mind %+10 *set reserved %+10 *set indirect %+10 "Wate. I say, slowly, not quite sure how to. Get my. What? What? What? *goto ? #Snowy. I growl. Snowy? Are. You. for real? *set d_relationship %-3 *set intimidateing %+10 *set sarcastic %+10 *set direct %+10 "Snowy. Above the states. I say, tone flat. That's, what you think, of your own. ${d_name}? What the actual. Fuck is wrong with you? *set pack_bond true *goto anger #disable_reuse What type of leaf? *set mind %+10 *set t_relationship %+3 *set direct %+10 "What type of leaf? I ask. "It was, a Maple Leaf. $${t_name} says. "That's part of our flag, then. Now. What's a Sorry Cannon? "Sorry cannon, mark 5. Shoots sound waves out of it's barrel at. No, it matters not. ${t_name} says. Point is? It screams. Sorry. When it fires. "Why? How? Who thought of... "That's what I want to know? ${d_name} asks. "Well. I mutter. That's... Suttle as a brick to the face? "A brick to the face. ${t_name} speaks, tone. Almost. Amused? Is as suttle as a brick to the face, ${mc_fullname}. I? Just. Shrug, and continue forward. *goto mc_answers *label machine . . . . "Snow machines, in july. Snow. hehhehhehheh. Machines, in... Hehhehhehhehheh. July... Americans. Think. Hahahaha. Snow... Southern Canada... July! Hahahahahahaha! Fuck that's funny! . . I fall to the floor, howling with mirth at the sealing, my hole body shuddering with it as I just lie there, cackling uncontrolably for a while. *goto machine2 *label machine2 *page_break a little while later. After I get myself under control? I, with a grunt, lever myself off the floor. Again, and, sit back in my chair. "Sorry. Sorry. I mutter, face bright red, though that might have been from the fact that I was pretty sure I was finding it hard to brethe at the end, there. I... I wasn't laughing at. You? Um... I feel kind of bad, now... ${l_name}? ${d_name} asks. "${mc_they} is telling the trooth. ${l_name} says. Though? You should be able to tell that yourself, ${d_name}. "I know, but. Your just so much better at it? "That? Is no excuse to be lax. We are not in the field. There is no time-constraints. ${t_name} chides. "Are you always this dower? O. Wate. You are! ${d_name} mutters. "You should see me when I am actually trying to be all dower and serious. ${n_name} deadpans. You will think this lot is down-write bubbly, then. This? Causes everyone, apart from me, to burst into howls of laughter. Well. I can hear noise comeing from ${d_name}, and ${n_name}. I heard a snort from ${l_name}, and nothing from ${t_nane}. Nothing from ${j_name}, either. I? After a while? Crack a grin. The mood of the room starting to carry me off. Only a little. I'm used to it, so. I know what to look for, at least. "Thought so, but... Yeah... ${d_name} says, every so often hiccupping. *if (highest_relationship) ="d_relationship" Why is my first reaction to that to think: "That's? Goddam adorible! Confused as all hell? I generally don't think of hicups as. Adorible? I blink, shake my head, and smile, while trying to figure out what the hell that had been all about? Shrugging after about 10 seconds? I plug back into the conversatioin, just to here. *goto dadorible *else *goto dadorible *label dadorible "What was. ${t_name}'s quiet, wraspy voice cuts through the rest of the fog around my mind from the mirth. That. About? I? Shrug. "Kind of a joke? Sort of? Not even quite sure why I thought of it, since your not american, ${d_name}. but... Meh? You want me to explain it anyway? It's a bit... meandering. "If you wish to do so? ${t_name} says. I will listen. However. I? Am only 1. There are 4, here. "What ever. ${n_name} grunts. I, shrug. "I wouldn't mind, yes. ${l_name} says. If it caused you such. Mirth? I'm rather curious now, what could generate that. Rather. Well. "I think you mean? ${n_name} cuts ${l_name} off. The fact that the ${mc_person} was laughing so hard, that ${mc_they} fell off ${mc_their} chair, and if continued? Probably would have killed ${mc_theirself}. You mean. That? "Yes. That. Thank you, ${n_name}. "For explaining it better than you, or for not saying that ${mc_they} was laughing so hard that I was actually curious if I would have 1 less item to deal with. Also, 1 less chance to have fun. Depending on ${mc_them}, of course. If I'm going to have fun? I'm going to make sure the person I am doing so with? Has at least as much as I do, after all. "The second one? Also? I retract my thanks, since. You. Just. Said. That. ${l_name} sighs. "Yeah yeah. It's true, though. "Let us. ${t_name} says. Return to topic. Now. "Ok, ${l_name} and ${n_name} say in perfect unison. "Yeah. I sort of want to. ${d_name} says. Also. Whered ${j_name} go? I? Nod, then sit, marshalling my thoughts. "She walked through the wall. Like. Just after the judgment? ${n_name} says. Said something about paperwork. I think? I wasn't really paying atencion, so. Yeah... Decideing to ignore the fact that the fact that someone *if ((t_take_crate =true) or (walk_t) =true)) else? *goto shifter *else *goto shifter *label shifter Is able to shift through walls had just been mentioned as casually as if they had just gone through a door? As well the fact that I really don't care that much? With all the other stuff that's been dumped on me? Well. That's just normal, now? I continue to focus, organizeing my thoughts to speak my mind. Trying to insure it would work out the best it could. I don't want to fuck this up, after all... *goto joke *label ? "Am I right? ${d_name} says, sounding slightly worried, now. That's where Canada is? I think I got it right? ${l_name}? Did I get it right? "You got the location right. But. Listen. ${d_name} quiets, and I continue. "You. I say, slowly. Don't. Know. Where. Canada. Is? But... Your accent? How? How? How? What? How? I mean. Your from the east coast, but that's no excuse... How? "What am I doing wrong here? ${d_name} sounds annoyed, now. I'm asking a ligitimit question. Why arn't you just. Answering the question? I'm not like ${l_name}. I can't just get stuff by looking and listening to someone's silence. "That's not how. ${l_name} starts. I actually do that, ${d_name}. "Answer the ${d_person}, ${mc_surname}. ${n_name} growls. Your pissing ${d_them}, off. Don't continue. You won't like what happens. *choice #"${d_name} is from Canada. I say, turning my atencion to ${n_name}. *set stubborn %+10 *set charming %+10 *set n_relationship %+1 *set sarcastic %+10 "${d_name}. I say, turning to face ${n_name}. Is, from. Canada? How can ${d_they}. How can you? Not know where your own country is? With that accent? I am confused... Happy now. ${n_name}? I, as you asked. Answered, the question. I deadpan this last sentence. ${n_name}? Does not reply. *goto otherworld #"Stay out of this. I snap at the ${n_person}, annoyed now. *set impulsive %+10 *set intimidateing %+10 *set n_relationship %-3 "Stay out of this. I snap at ${n_name}. This is between me? And ${d_name}. Were both Canadians, and I can't believe that ${d_they} does not know where ${d_their} own dam country is located. *goto otherworld *label anger "Wate. What? ${d_name} splutters, before I cut ${d_them} off. "Ok. I growl. Were going to have a short. Lesson. Ready? Good. Now. Listen up Cinnaman Roll... I hear a distinct growl from ${n_name}'s direction, but ignore it. "Canada? I growl. Your. Home, if I'm getting your accent correctly. Which? I believe I am. It's not like many people have a ${d_accent} accent, and it's pretty distinct from any others, so. Fairly easy to distinguish. Is. Not. Fully. Snowy. The southern half actually gets rather nice, in the summers. There is only. Snow? In the winter. Only snow through a lot of the year? In the far, far north, or in the rockies, high, high in the rockies, mind. "Next factoide. I raise a hand, gestureing with a crookd finger. Canada? Is. I gesture, finger traceing the ruff outline of the country, or, what I remember it being when I had that tactile map back in school. Like? This. Now? I open my mouth, but, can't think of anything to say, so, cloze it again, chest heaving, and slump back in the chair. Perhaps it wasn't the best idea to go off the handle on a vampire like that? Especially when there are 3 more, who, probably won't take my outburst very well. Judging by the fact, that they all seem to have an ease around each other, only born from long familierity. That, and the fact that this fact I'm a Seaker, seems to have all of them on edge? Well... Along with the fact, that ${n_name} actually did grab me by the neck, and lift me into the air yesterday? Well... Too late to go back now... *page_break wateing? "$${mc_first}? ${l_name} speaks. "What? "You got your map wrong. On the top, I mean. Here... I feel a hand grip mine, then. "May i? I shrug. The hand traces the top part again, but does something different from what I did. I nod. The hand lets go of my own. "That's what your thinking? ${n_name} asks. Yoour serious? "You know what I think about inacurit maps. ${l_name} responds. "Not, that ${mc_they} just went off the handle on a friend of yours? Your more concerned with the map? "I believe the mistake will be cleared up soon. *temp d_anger true *goto otherworld *label joke "So. I start... Hmmm... How to... Aah, here we go. So. "Some Americans come up to our cottege. We have a cottege, by the way. It's. Nah, that's not important, now. Anyway, point is. They come up in the middle of july, with 2 sleds. Snow-machines. Then? I stop, starting to laugh once more as I think of the halarious, at least to me? Situation. . . . . Then? I chuckle, get myself under control. They ask. "Where is the snow? We braught sleds! Where's the snow! We got told it's like. 25 minutes north or so? In. July... In. Southern. I start to cackle again, loseing my train of thought as I do, my cackles of mirth bouncing around the room. After a while? I get myself back under control, grimaceing. I never liked my laugh... Everyone said it was... I never much liked how it sounded. Too much like. I grimace. "Sorry. I mumble. "For what? ${d_name} says. Tone a hell of a lot softer than I would have thought. 1? That actually was, given the context? Halarious. 2? Welll... *goto otherworld *label otherworld "I'm not from, Canada. ${d_name} speaks with shurity. Um. What accent do you hear? "${d_accent}. I respond emediatly. It's on the east coast. In the adlantic, northwest. I think? "Well. Sorry? But... Well? I'm not from there. "Where are you from, then? I ask, curiosity overwelming my enitial reaction, along with some measure of guilt for assuming. "Um... "Alternet world. I blink. "Alternet. I say, slowly. Body going rigid. World? A spike of paine slams through my skull, drawing a gasp from me, as I press a hand to my forehead, gritting my teeth and closeing my eyes tight. "Yes. ${j_name} snaps, sounding mildly annoyed as I feel a hand on the side of my neck. There is. Something? A flare of. Something? Like something is being ppulled out. What ever it is? Vanishes a second later, followed by a soft exhelation from ${j_name}, who is. Why is she right next to me? "Why are you right next to me? I didn't here you come in. "Shifted through the floor. Had to jump on a... No, never mind. The hand, and the woman, both vanish a second later. "Did you just shift through the wall again? ${d_name} asks. "I shifted through the floor. ${z_name} had to toss me. "Still say that's cool... "Says the ${d_person} who can throw fireballs at will. ${j_name} deadpans. As well as. What ever your Psychic ability was. "I can make people forget I'm there! "Yeah. That one. "Wate. Wouldn't that be ${t_name}'s? "Mine simply lets me not be noticed. There is a difference. ${t_name} says. "If you don't need to stay in the shadows all the time, at the edges of rooms, then. Why do you stand in the shadows, at the edges of rooms? ${d_name} asks, sounding confused. "I like, standing in the shadows, aat the edges of rooms. ${t_name} responds. . ---The watcher--- *choice #${mc_first}'s eyes light up like twin suns, a giant grin slowly spreading over ${mc_their} face, before opening ${mc_their} mouth, and drawing in a huge lungfull of air. *set heart %+10 *set direct %+10 *set impulsive %+15 "Suck it! Suck it! Suck it! Suck it! Suck it! Suck! It! Suck! It! Suck it, Kopenhagen! Suck! Suck! Hahahahahahahahahaha! Suck! It! ${mc_first} then jumps to ${mc_their} feet, and starts dancing around, still bellowing at the top of ${mc_their} lungs, giant goofy grinn still in place. "I wouldn't be aposed to that, if you changed Copenhagen to. ${n_name} mutters, before ${n_they} is gestured to silance by ${l_name}. The group, has various expressions on their faces. Apart from the Watcher, who is just watching, as well as the pale shadow with tattered wings, bone wite robes, and bone white, glowing eyes, who has just appeared in the corner of the room, that noone else seems to have noticed yet. That one's face is a cold ppale mask. ${d_name} looks somewhat confused. ${j_name} has a strange look on her face, before facepalming, shrugging, and letting a small grin settle over her features. ${l_name} has a genuin smile, though in ${l_eyecolor} eyes? There is confusion,, smile showing off the multaple laugh lines on the ${l_hight} ${l_person}'s ${l_skincolor} face. ${n_name} looks partly confused, partly disappointed, eyes locked on the ${mc_person}. ${t_name} stands in the shadows, in 1 corner, silently observing, face blank of any expression what so ever. So. That is, an expression? Kind of? As her old combat trainer always told her: "Makeing no choice at all? Is still makeing a choice. *goto suck #"Another world? ${mc_first} says with a grin, before turning ${mc_their} head, eyes now glowing, towards ${d_name}, mouth opening, and vomiting forth a rappidfire streem of questions. *set mind %+10 *set friendly %+10 *set charming %+10 *set sentimental %+10 ${mc_first} grins, before turning to ${d_name}, opening ${mc_their} mouth, takeing in a deep, deep breth, and starting to vollyfire questions at the ${d_person} at a rather impressive volosity and volume. *goto volley #"Well? ${mc_first} says with a slight shrug. Shit... I have never met someone from another world before. *set mind %+10 *set reserved %+10 *set cautious %+10 "Well. ${mc_first} says, remarkably calm, despite the Watcher noticeing the ${mc_person}'s heart rate spikeing. I have never met someone from another world before... *goto simple *label suck ---${mc_first}--- "Suck it! Shrodinger! Suck it! No more cats for you! Suck! Suck! Suck! Suck! Hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! No more shrodinger jokes! Also, that one youtube vidio with a shrodinger joke in it... Gone! Gone! Gone! Gone gone gone! Multyvurse rules, science! Fuck you! Fuck! You! Fuck! You! All! Hahahahahahahahahahaha. Ha!Ha!Ha! Suck it, singular world theory. Your wrong! Your singleness is dead! Wrong! Dead! Dead! Dead! "What. ${t_name}'s voice. Somehow? Cuts through my yelling. Is so. offensive about Copenhagen? "Huh? Nothing? Howed you get. "O... Um... Shit... Sorry? I... Fuck... Um... Fuck... "Stop stuttering, and start speaking. ${t_name}'s tone is hard, yet. Not unkind, somewhat surprisingly? Considering... "I believe. ${l_name} starts. ${mc_they} is not speaking of the city. More the theory. I assume that you wish to tell the rest of them yourself. yes? I know what your talking about, but... You seem. Well... Rather invested... In. This? *choice #"Yeah. I say with a grin. *set friendly %+10 *set l_relationship %+3 *set n_relationship %+3 "Yeah. I say with a smile towards ${l_name}. Yeah, I would. Thanks? "It is no problem for me. Even if it was? I would still ask. I nod, smile growing. Pretty sure my eyes are twinkling? How do you feel your eyes? Nah, not important right now. *goto shrodinger #I simply nod. *set t_relationship %+3 *set d_relationship %+3 *set reserved %+10 I simply nod towards ${l_name}, a slight smile pulling at my lips as I do so. *goto shrodinger *label Volley "What's it like? What was the branch point? Is there a branch point? How big is it? What's the tech level? Howed you get here? What was that like? How do you like this world? Is it better? Would you go back? Can I get there? What is different about here? What was different there? How many languages are there? Is there magic? Is it a magical world? Is it a technological world? Are there Vampires there? No, there are, your a Vampire... how does being a Vampire differ from here to there? Are there Humans there? Does pie still equal 3.1415145, ETC? Is it like earth, or are there other worlds? If so, what are they like? If not. What's earth like? . . . . . . ${mc_first} fires questions like the Watcher fires her short-range ranger pattern semi-auto assault karbine, currently clipped to her belt. The ${mc_person}'s eyes wide, grin firmly in place, an intense curiosity burning in the ${mc_person}'s deep-set ${mc_eyecolor} eyes. Unfortunitly? ${d_name}, looks like a dear, caught in the headlights, mussles tence, ${d_eyecolor} eyes like dinnerplates as the barrage of questions continue, ${mc_first}, unaware of ${d_their} state. "${mc_first}. ${t_name}'s voice is sharp. Hard. Cold. Cutting through the ${mc_person}'s continued questions. . . ${mc_first}'s words cut off, mouth working for another few seconds, before ${mc_they} closes it. Blinks, then... "Yes? "${d_name}. ${t_name} continues, tone still chilly. Does not want to answer your questions. Shut. Up. If you would. ${mc_first} blinnks, blinks, blinks, then ${mc_their} head lowers, face turning bright red. ---${mc_first}--- *choice #"I'm sorry, ${d_name}. I say, a wave of guilt welling up inside my chest at my somewhat. Thoughtless, actions. *set heart %+10 *set d_relationship %+3 "I'm sorry, ${d_name}. I say, a flare of guilt washing up inside my chest. I... I didn't meen to. I flop back, covering my face with my hands in self-disgust. From the tone in ${t_name}'s voice? I will assume, that. Well. ${d_name} is... Not just, frazald... "You didn't know. ${d_name}'s tone is flat. I... You did not, know. I can. Understand, that... I can understand, your... Curiosity. I nod, releaved, pulling my head out of my hands, folding them in my lap. "Still. I mmutter. You. OK? "No. ${d_name}'s voice is soft. However? Your actions, didn't cause this. I don't blaim you. I nod, decideing that I will, at least. Not. do. That? Again... *comment Watch, as our loveable MC does. That? Again! *goto next #"Um... How much did I screw up? I ask ${t_name}. *set mind %+10 *set indirect %+10 *set t_relationship %+3 *set d_relationship -3 "How much. I say towards ${t_name}'s voice, did I mess up? I. Didn't... "Saying you did not mean to? Means, nothing. ${t_name}'s tone is sharp, but the ice is fadeing, now. You messed up. Take responsibility for your actions? Or do not speak at all. You can not change the past. Do not make excuses. Either explain? Or do not speak. However? In this case? The consequences are... Relativly, miner. Now. Apoligize to ${d_name}. I nod? Turn. "Sorry, ${d_name}. I... I grimace. Didn't meen to... Fuck... I growl, then. Didn't... I assume that topic is. Not something you enjoy speaking of? "It was more? I couldn't field all the questions at once. But... Yeah. It's, a... Tuchy, subject? I grunt. I accept, your apoligy, by the way. Thanks, even if you needed ${t_name}'s prodding to prompt you. I nod, sutibly chaisoned, and decide it's a good idea to shut up now. *goto next *label simple "Well. ${d_name} says. You met me, now. *choice #"Well? I say, smirking. *set charming %+10 *set d_relationship %+1 *set genuin %+10 "Well. I say with a grin. I'm happy to have met you. Alternet worlder? Or, no, alternet worlder. "Same here. ${d_name} says. I smile. The term is usually. "Outworlder? But Altworlder works too. *goto next #Now I can tell all my friends I know someone from an alt world? I say with a grin. *set sarcastic %+10 *set impulsive %+10 *set friendly %+10 "Now I can tell all my friends that I have a friend from an alt world! I say with a grin. "If you reveal us. ${t_name} deadpans. You will be... Removed. "Huh? What? Howed that? "${t_name}? "I am giving ${mc_them} the consequences of that action. Would you rather I do not? "Removed? "Detained. Painlessly. "I was being. I decide to way in. Sarcastic? "Good. "You need to work on your social skills? I mutter. "I do not. You? Need to work on your sarcasm. "How? "Vampire. "O... "That's funny! ${d_name} laughs. "Of course? That is your first reaction. ${t_name} sighs. "What? It is, sort of funny. "I am removeing myself from this conversation, now. "So your going to hide at an edge of the room? "I do not hide. I? Observe. "Hide? Observe? Same diff. Anyway. Your still going to the edge of the room? So. "I am. "So? I'm right! "I am removeing myself from this conversation. I will not respond to further inquiries. *goto next #"I thought. I say. You would be... Um... Taller? *set d_relationship%-3 *set genuin %+10 *set impulsive %+10 "I thought. I say before my brain catches up to my mouth. You would be... Well... Taller? I... Guess? "Do you. ${d_name} snaps. Have a problem with my hight? If so? Shove it, and get spaced! I blink? The term is... "Get. Spaced? I ask. "Tossed out an airlock. ${n_name} supplies. "How do you know that? ${d_name} sounds surprised. Would have thought it would be ${t_name} who would give that? "Handy way to get rid of evidence. Learned it when we were. You know? ${t_name} taught me. "It was nessessary to instruct you. ${t_name} says, from the edge of the room. You kept leaving the corpses where others could find them. We had been instructed to be. Stealthy. So? I was required to insure you knew the correct way to dispose of remains. "I didn't mean... Just... Don't make fun of my hight. OK? ${d_name} mutters. I nod, mentally kicking myself. "Why are you so frazzled? ${n_name} asks. Technicly? ${t_name} is shorter than you are, and you don't see ${t_them} getting all frazzled about it all. "I just am! ${d_name} snaps. Ok? "Ok, ok. Fine. ${n_name} mutters. In response? Something wooshes over my head, the wind from it's passage blowing across my head, along with a rushing noise. "Enough. ${t_name} says. You almost struck ${mc_first}. "So? "${mc_they}, does not know things are comeing. Besides. ${mc_they} can not yet protect ${mc_theirself}. "I'm throwing a mellon at ${n_name}. ${d_name} says. Duck. I? Duck. "Whyed you think? I have... O... "Enough. ${l_name} says. Both of you. Also? Stop throwing fireballs. You know what happened last month. "Fine. ${d_name}, and ${n_name} mutter. *set n_relationship %+3 *goto next *if (d_housecoat) =true #"Does that mean I have an otherworldley housecoat now? I say with a giant goofy grin. *set charming %+10 *set mind %+10 *set d_relationship %+5 *set l_relationship %+3 "Does this mean. I say with a grin. I have an otherworldley housecoat, now? "An. Otherworldly? What? No? It's? I built it? Components? Mall? How? ${d_name} sputters, before bursting into howls of laughter. *page_break a minute or so later "Sorry, sorry. ${d_they} says, still snorting. It's just... It's. Funny! It's! So! Funny! I didn't mean to laugh... "It's fine. I say with a shrug. Now I think about it? I start chuckling. "You didn't think about it till now? ${n_name} scoffs. Your going to last about 5 minutes? Should just call you dogfood, and get your death over with... "${n_name}! ${l_name} snaps. "What? If... I hear a light slap, and a sigh, then. "What was that for? "Your being mean. "Doesn't mean you get to wap me upside the head! "As you once said. ${l_name} counters. If you can't dodge? ${n_name} growls, then, sighs. Seeming to give up, to ${l_name}'s words. *goto next *label shrodinger "Well. I start. Shrodinger's cat... There was this guy, called Shrodinger. He put a cat in a box with some poison in a vial. "I like cats. ${d_name} interupts. *choice #"I do as well, but... *set n_relationship %+1 *set heart %+10 "I like them too. I say. But. Please don't. I'm trying to tell a story here? I don't get a reply, and so? Decide to continue. *goto shrodinger2 #I, ignore the interuption. *set reserved %+10 *set easyGoing %+10 I ignore ${d_name}'s interuption, and, after wateing for 4 seconds? Continue my narative. *goto shrodinger2 #I'm more of a dog person, myself. *set l_relationship %+1 *set d_relationship %+1 "I'm more of a dog person myself. I say, but. Could you let me finish? Please? I don't get a reply? So, continue. *goto shrodinger2 *label shrodinger2 "The box is closed, but. Noone knows when the poison will be releaced from it's vial. So? Till the box is opened? The cat is, in theory at least, both alive, and dead. The Copenhagen theory posits that, anyway. The multyvursal theory, of which has been proven since. Well! ${d_name} is sitting here, posits, that in 1 timeline, the cat lives. In another? it dies. I guess there would also be a third where said cat was never put in the box? But that would break off another timeline earlier to our hypothetical sanario, so I won't go into that right now. Of course, most likely, the timelines would re-murge, since a single cat, normally wouldn't be enough to create a branch point, but... Yeah... That's. That? Unless the butterfly affect affects tempral branching more than I think it does... Hmmm... Nah, back on topic. Anyway. "I couldn't have said it better myself. ${l_name} says. "That's bullshit? And, you know it dam well. ${n_name} says, while at the same time, ${t_name} says. "That, is untrue, ${l_name}. You could have said it. Much, much better, and furthermore? You know you could have. Do not sell yourself short. "Ok? I could have said it better? But. It was ${mc_first}'s, explenation. So... *choice #"Thanks, ${l_name}. I say. *set t_relationship %+1 *set n_relationship %+1 *set l_relationship %+3 *set genuin %+10 "Well? Either way? Thanks, ${l_name}, again. I reittirate with a smile. "My pleasure. Even if I technicly, as ${t_name} and ${n_name} both seem to think? Could have explained it. Better? Yours was... Yours had, more life to it than I could have put into my explenation. Apart from the yelling at the beginning. Also not something I would have ever done, but... To each their own. Yes? I nod with a grin. *goto next #I just smile in graditude at ${l_name}. *set l_relationship %+3 *set d_relationship %+3 *set reserved %+10 *set genuin %+10 I just smile, saying nothing. I? Personally don't doubt that ${l_name}, probably could have said it better than me. A lot, of people could have said that better than me. The fact ${l_they} didn't? Well. That raises ${l_their} standing a few notches in my book. ${d_name}'s too, while I'm on the subject. ${d_they} probably knew ${l_name} could. So... Yeah... *goto next #I do not react. *set reserved %+10 *set cautious %+10 *set mind %+10 I do not outwardly react. ${l_name} let me do the explenation, and I am grateful for it? However. Blubbering about it will do nothhing. Besides. If ${l_name} wanted a thankyou? ${l_they} would indicate such. Yes? *set t_relationship %+3 *goto next *label next There is silance. "Where did ${j_name}? ${l_name} starts. "Walked through a wall about, half a minute ago? ${d_name} supplies. ${n_name} voices agreement. "I. ${d_name} mutters. Still think that's cool as all... I can just throw fireballs? The woman can walk through solid objects at will. Would be so dam useful when dealing with meteor storms during an E V A, for example. Just go shadow, and your good. "I do not think. ${t_name} says, that ${j_fullname} can use, shadow magic. ${j_they} does not have the... Air, of one who walks in the grey. "It doesn't quite work like that, anyway. ${l_name} says. There is always the wrisk of an elament that interacts with the shift, being in 1 of the rocks. Those do exist. Remember Draden's crest? "I have been trying to forget. ${d_name} deadpans. Thanks for just takeing 2 years of my life from me, ${l_name}. "Suck it up. ${n_name} snaps. It's not like you age. Your a Vampire. Remember? ${d_name} grunts, going silent. "As for me? I loved that mission. "Of course you did, ${n_name}. ${l_name} deadpans. You enjoy when things die. ${n_name}? Does not respond. "Well. I wouldn't have just stood there, would i? I would have been careful. ${d_name} snaps after a little over 30 seconds, sounding very much insulted. Still... I just decide to ignore the fact that someone just walked through a wall. Again? At this point? Well. What can't people do? Fireballs. Vampires. People walking through walls. People talking about magic like it's an everyday thing. Giant blue alians, and small blue alians who I sware sound like modern teenagers, without the fixation with their phones. The little blue dood, not the big blue dood, I mean. Standing, I stretch, reaching my arms high over my head with a long sigh and several loud cracks. "Still tired? ${l_name} asks. I shrug. "More... Hungry? Anyone have food? "Yes. ${l_name} says. We can bring it to your room, if you would like? "We? ${n_name} grunts. Why am I getting roped into this? I don't care 1 way or the other what happens to ${mc_them}, unless ${mc_they} harms this unit. Or... Well. You all know what i'm going to say next, so I won't say it. "${n_name}, ${n_name}, ${n_name}. ${d_name} purrs. The words. Room? And. Alone? Should have peaked your interest. Your. Well? You. "Bringing food to someone? Is not my idea of. Fun. "Well then? Make it, fun. If. You know. ${d_name} says. It's not like anyone said anything about you haveing to leave right after, you know? I have seen you. Well. We all know how fast you can. Well. Do your thing. "If you 2 are going to go off on this conversation? ${t_name} says. I am leaving. Through my wall, before you say that the door is all the way over. There. I can shift through solid objects as well. If you have forgotten. "Your so.... Ugg! ${d_name} complains. I was giveing ${n_name} a little push in the right direction? That's not worthy of rage-quitting? "Rage. Quitting. ${t_name} deadpans. "Getting mad, quitting. So? Rage? Quitting. "I am not vexed. Only? Unwilling to engage in a conversation between you, and ${n_name}, involving bedrooms. So? As you put it. I am not. Rage. Quitting. "Did I ever tell you that you are no fun? We really need to drag you to. Like? A party. Or. Something? "I am not a good person. ${t_name}'s tone is flat. Voice, cold. People like me? Are. Rairly. Fun, ${d_name}. I get the job done. That? Is all I wish to do. "You are not, a bad person, ${t_name}. ${l_name} says, voice hard, and cold, as a knife someone left in a freezer. If you ever were? You are not, anymore. "Yeah. ${d_name} says. You put up with me. So? That makes you an angel, in my book. . . "${d_name}. ${t_name}'s voice is so cold that I sware? The temprature drops several degrees. Do. Not. Use. That. Word? In. Regards. To. Me. Am. I. Understood? . . "O... Yeah... Um... Yes? "Good. ${t_name}'s voice and tone return to normal. The temprature? Also returns to normal. "I. ${t_name} starts, but ${l_name} cuts ${t_them} off. "No. This conversation? Is. Done. Everyone makes an agreement noise. "We. ${t_name} says. Tone changeing, have free time. I was going to request that ${j_name}, return you to your room. However? Since she is... I have no idea where she is, or when she will come back, actually. One of us, will. Unless. You have a problem with walking with a vampire? The tone is the same. Not angry? Not mocking. It's. Genuin? Huh. Would have thought... Nah. Fucked with enough assumptions today... "I get a choice? I ask, just to be sure. Also? Not really? As in, I don't really have a problem with it. I shrug. "You get a choice. If the one you choose, accepts, at least. I nod. It's fare, after all. *goto choose_companion *label choose_companion *choice *disable_reuse #"You. *set t_relationship %+3 *if (walk_t) =true *set cautious %+10 *set walk_t2 true *set t_relationship %+1 *goto shadowborn *else *set impulsive %+15 *set walk_t true *goto shadowborn *disable_reuse #"${l_name}? I tentativly say. *set l_relationship %+3 *if (walk_l) =true *set cautious %+10 *set walk_l2 true *set l_relationship %+1 *goto wondoror *else *set impulsive %+15 *set walk_l true *goto wondoror *disable_reuse #${n_name}? I say. Curious of what reaction I will get. *set n_relationship %+3 *if (walk_n) =true *set cautious %+10 *set n_relationship %+1 *goto soldier *else *set impulsive %+15 *set walk_n true *goto soldier *disable_reuse #"${d_name}? I ask, somewhat curious of what the, from what I have seen? Emotional ${d_person} will do. *set d_relationship %+3 *if (walk_d) =true *set cautious %+10 *set d_relationship %+1 *set walk_d2 true *goto nomad *else *set impulsive %+15 *set walk_d true *goto nomad *label shadowborn "You? I part say, part ask. Wateing for ${t_name}'s reaction. *if (t_relationship) <50 "I believe, that you would be better surved by another member of this unit. ${t_name}'s voice is quiet. "Kindly choose someone else. I? Nod. *goto choose_companion *else "As you wish. I have no problem with escorting you, if you have no problem being escorted by me. I nod. *goto walk_t *label wonderur *if (l_relationship) <40 "I believe. ${l_name} says now. That you would be better surved asking another member of this unit, ${mc_first}. . . "Ok? I say, nodding. "Thank you. *goto wonderur2 *else *goto wonderur2 *label wonderur2 "I have no problem with it. ${l_name}'s voice is. Surprisingly warm? If you do not? "I don't have a problem. I say, decideing that pointing out that if I did? I would not have asked? Is probably not quite the most tactfull thing I could say right about now. "In that case? ${l_name} says. Shall we? *goto walk_l *label soldier "${n_name}? I ask, tentativly. "Yes? "Um... Could you walk me back to my room? *page_break *if (n_relationship) <=50 "No. Pick someone else. I blink? Blinnk, then. Nod. It was worth a shot. If ${n_name} doesn't want to? Well. ${n_they} does not want to. *goto choose_companion *else *goto soldier2 *label soldier2 "Come on. ${n_name} grunts. "You do know, what ${n_name} wants to do, after you get to the room. Yes? "Um... No? "I had money on that! "We are not betting, on ${mc_first}'s decisions, or perceptiveness. ${l_name} sighs. ${t_name} grunts in agreement. "Your not? I was. "We. Are. Not. ${t_name} cuts in. ${d_name} sighs. Well? Come on. I hear a squeek, then a hand grabs my forearm, yanking me to my feet, then, off my feet slightly, before I drop back down to the ground once again. "Don't. ${n_name} growls, as I open my mouth. I? Shut, my mouth. *goto walk_n *label nomad "${d_name}? I say, somewhat curious of what the ${d_person}'s reaction is going to be. *if (d_relationship) <50 "I think? ${d_name} says. You would be better with someone else? I mean. I can? But... Well... You might be better with another. So. . "Ok? I say. "Ok. ${d_name} says. *goto choose_companion *else *goto d_compannion *label d_companion2 *label d_companion2 "I don't mind, if you don't. I get in reply. Decideing that. It's probably all I am going to get? I stand, and start towards the door. A small hand grips my arm, spinning me around. "Wrong way. I assume you got turned around during the hole trial thing? I nod. With that? We continue moveing. I, now holding ${d_name}'s arm. *goto walk_d *label walk_t *page_break We move, ${t_name}'s surprisingly slender, yet also surprisingly compact arm firmly gripped in my own hand, now. *if (mc_hight) ="very short" Our stride lengths seem to be ruffly the same, for which I am grateful. Less hastle that way, and all. *goto walk_t2 *else ${t_name} walks at my pace, without seeming complaint. Though? As I notice this? I make an effort to shorten my stride length slightly so I am not makeing the shorter ${t_person} run to keep up. That? Especially since. Well. ${t_they} is takeing the trouble to actually walk me back to my room? Would be just a dick move of me. Vampire? Or not. *goto walk_t2 *label walk_t2 *if (t_housecoat) =true *goto t_housecoat *else *goto walk_t3 *label t_housecoat "I would. ${t_name} speaks, slowly. Distinctly. Like to formally apoligize to you, ${mc_first}. . "For? I ask, bemused. I can't think of anything. Apart from running face first into that door? Though, in ${t_name}'s defence. I should have had my bumper hands up, so. That was partly my falt anyway. Also didn't tell ${t_name} I was totally blind, though that had an actual, rellivent reason behind it? So. However much that brings. "The disgust I turned apon you, when you struck the door that second time. "What now? "You did not know? "No? Wate. You were? That's... I close my mouth, pushing down my emotions. "Not now, ${mc_first}. Not now. Listen to what the ${t_person} has to say. I think. "I believed. That you were in capeable of following simple instructions. I assumed? That the reason you struck the door the second time. Even, the first time, was because of this reason. I labled you as a liability, and have treeted you less than I should, since that point. "Now? "Now? I am apoligizeing for that. Inability to follow basic instructions due to something such as inotentiveness, is one thing. The euth of this age, and their fasonation with phones? Is a prime example of this. However? That conversation? ${l_name} would call it, a. Rant? Is not for this time, or this place. Inability to follow basic instructions due to not knowing a peace of said instructions? In this case. Not knowing, through no falt of your own, that the door remained? Is another. So? My apoligy. *choice #I shrug. After all? I'm partly to blaim for it. *set heart %+10 *set easyGoing %+10 "I, I say with a slight shrug, am partly to blaim for that. I stop, let go of ${t_name}'s arm, and raise my hands into the bumper hands poze. 1 diagonally across my body. Elbow at chest level. One, horozontal across my stomach and chest. It's been a bit since I have had to do it, so. Could be a bit off? "What is that? "Bumper hands. It's used when. Well. You don't have any type of guidance device. Didn't think of doing it when I first woke up that first time. I guess? I was a bit out of it? But... Well. Just showing you, it was not totally your falt. Anyway. My point. I reach out, finding ${t_name}'s arm after a few seconds of reaching around. ${t_they} finally just grabbes my wrist, then I grabbed ${t_their} arm with my other hand, as we start to walk once more. Is, that I don't particularly blaim you. We were both at falt. We both didn't know. Admitedly? I probably should have told you, I gesture at my eyes with my free arm. You know... "You did not, because that, was a disadvantage that you did not wish to reveal to, at the time, a potencial enemy. Yes? I nod, slightly surprised the ${t_person} went to that conclusion, instead of something more along the lines of... "Blind ${mc_person} is an asshole, for not telling me ${mc_they} is blind, makeing me have to apoligize for running ${mc_them} into a door. "Are you reading my mind? I joke. "No. I can not. My psychic gifts are... More direct, then looking into others thoughts. I never had a use for mind reading anyway... Too much chatter. Especially when I need to focus. Well? That's not what I thought I was going to get? I think. "You were saying that as a. Jest. Yes? "Yeah. How did you know? "Your face has drained of any color. "O... Yeah? That would do it? "Find another. That? Is nothing to joke of. Also? In the words of ${d_name}. "That. Really. Sucked. I? Decide to go back to silance, now. "I would apretiate it? If you never told ${d_name} that I had said those words. Do I have your promice? I? Nod. "Thank you. I hear, after several seconds of silance. Thankyou for accepting my apoligy, regardless. I? Nod, a smile tuching my lips as I do so. *set t_relationship %+3 *goto t_conversation3 #I do not answer. *set t_relationship %-3 *set mind %+10 *set reserved %+10 I don't answer ${t_name}. *goto t_conversation3 #I turn to ${t_name}, and smile wide. *set t_relationship %+3 *set friendly %+10 *set heart %+10 I turn to the ${t_person} walking next to me, and smile wide, squeezing ${t_their} arm to let ${t_them} know it's all good. There is a long silance, as we continue to walk. "I thank you, ${mc_fullname}. I hear. I nod, smile widening. *if (t_relationship) >=65 "Wipe that silly expression off your face. If lips were to be pulled that far back? They would not have the ability to fall over the teeth. I? Stop smiling. Mostly. Then? I think about the scene we must look, and just start chortling instead. "What is funny? "Us. The scene. Just... "I will? Not ask further of this topic. I nod, still chortling. With that? We go back to silance. Though? It's a companionable silance, at least, now. *goto t_conversation3 *else *goto t_conversation3 *label t_conversation3 "So. I say, after a solid 2 minutes of relative silance. *if (ask_t_lamp true *goto shadewalker *else *goto Seaker *label shadewalker What was the lamp earlier? "Lantern? "Yeah. The lamp. When I shined it at you. You seemed. Actually miffed, about it? What was that about? You know. If you want to tell me, and... Stuff. "And... Stuff? "I didn't know how to finish that sentence? "I will. Tell you. You deserve an answer, if nothing else? Due to my. Conduct. You? Did not deserve the treement I rendered to you. This question? Validates that. I? Nod. "I do not do well, with light? Before you ask? No, it is not, a. Vampire, thing. It stems. It stems, from my abilitys. "Which are? "Why would I tell you that infermation? "Because I am asking? . . "If I asked you, to tell me something that is woven into whom you are. Your... Home location, forr example. Would you do so. Just because I asked? "Um... "Where is your home. located. Exact detales. ... "My point. So. Why? Should I than. Tell you? "Um. So I don't do soomething like that again? I. Guess? "You. Guess. "I'm not good at this. Alright? "Neither am I. . "You know. I have the ability to shift. Yes? "Like ${j_name}? Yeah. "No. Not, like ${j_fullname}. Hers stem from... Something different. I? Can monipulate shadows. Meld with them, as well. "Is that why you always like standing on the edges of rooms? "That is? Part of tthe reason. Do not ask of that further. I nod, then, shrug. "So... What does that have to do with the lamp? "Pacients. I wince, and close my mouth. We use. Magic. Each of us, has a different magic. However? Magic, affects us. My magic, is the magic of shadows. The magic of the dark, if you will. Though, it is not. Dark, magic. Not what your people think of, at least. However? Each has a price. In my case? The fact I can wield shadow, makes me... More susseptible, to light. Especially, as I had just shifted, and was still melded. Does that. Answer your question? "Sort of? But now I have a bunch more? "You may ask. 1. I nod. . . "Can you take others. When you do the. Shadow thing? "Yes. Though? It is an... Unplezent, experience, for most. I nod. With that? I ask another question. Still want to know about seakers, after all. "So. "I said. 1. Question. "You never said on what. . . "Speak, then. I? Nod. *goto Seaker *label Seaker Is being a Seaker. Well. Bad? I got the feeling from you lot that it's not exactly a. Good, thing? ${n_name}, especially. "Inharrintly? No. However... Seakers do not have the best. Reputation, among us. Examples I, and my team have encountered? Have not been the most... Willing to, as ${l_name} would say. "Have a. Civilized, conversation." Most, would rather attack us, than speak with us. The fact that. The one called, Gravemaker? Is counted among Seakers? Does not help your situation any either. I nod, pretty sure I get the picture. After all. Who gets a. I assume it's their nickname? Like. Gravemaker, if there not some bad, bad news? "So. I'm not the only one, then? "No. We know of at least 1 other, on record. Currently? ${mc_they} is with a pack of werewolves. Before you ask? We know little, to nothing about ${mc_them}. Were not even sure if ${mc_they} is a Seaker or not. The pack is... Incredibly tight-lipped about any of it. When questioned? Their handler, and the Packleader, refuse to comment. It helps not at all either, that both have... Let us say. Reputations? All their own. Packleader for overwelming vilence. Handler? Well. The handler is... Strange. However? I know nothing more. I nod. "Um. Thanks for. Well. Walking me? I say, after a while. I sort of assumed you were going to. Well. I don't know? Laugh in my face or something? *if (walk_t) =true "I did not do such the last time we walked this root. Why, then, would you assume I would then do so today? "I. Don't actually have an answer for that? "Well then. ${t_name}'s tone is. Rebukeing, though not sharply. Perhaps you should, in future. Think, before you speak. Yes? "Yeah. I mutter. Good idea... I don't hear anything in reply. *goto walk_t4 *else *goto walk_t4 *label walk_t4 "You have done nothing that would prompt me to do such. Besides. You were given the choice. You chose? Me. So? I walk. That is? How, that is. I nod. *page_break arival "We are here. ${t_name} says, as we slow down, finally halting. Here. I feel a small round disk dropped into my free palm. This is a radio. We all have them. If you need something? Contact us. it will work if we are inside the facility. I? Nod, Takeing the radio. "Press the. There you. I yelp, almost dropping the thing in surprise as ${t_name}'s double voice startles me. "If you startle so. ${t_name}'s voice is amused. We may not have as much to fear from you, as ${n_name} believes, we do. I? Nod, turn, and move into my room. 1 last question? I hear over my shoulder. You do not have to answer, if you do not wish to. It is simply, my. Curiosity. I? Shrug, turning back around. "Why did you choose me. *if (walk_t2 true You have done this. Twice, now. I am... Curious as to your intencions. *if (t_relationship) >=60 Normally. When I do. This sort of thing. The one who is to be watched? Opts to go with ${l_name}, or ${d_name}. Or... ${l_name} or ${d_name}. For, reasons that you should know from interactions with them. Not? Me. So. Why? *goto t_choose_respond *else *goto t_choose_respond *else *goto t_choose_respond *temp t1 false *temp t2 false *temp bold_t false *temp shigh_t false *choice #"I was curious on what you would do? I say with a shrug. *set t_relationship %+3 *set genuin %+10 *set t1 true "I was curious what you would do? I say with a shrug. I mean... "You were curious, if I would refuse, Yes? I nod. "That is a fare answer, if nothing else. However? As I said earlier? I gave you the choice. You chose me. So? I walk. I nod, a swell of. Something? Welling in my chest. Warmth. but. Why? *goto t_leaving #"You asked? *set t_relationship %-3 *set mind %+10 *set genuin %+10 *set t2 true "You asked. "So. By that logic. If a wolf. Or? In this case. A. Vampire, askes a human to go alone with them, for... Let us say, for sake of argument. Unwelcom, events as far as the human is concerned. You would do so? If. I, had accepted your request for. My personal. Reasons, that will not end well for you., let us say. I notice, that ${t_name} is now standing. Right. In. Front, of. Me. "Um... I take a single step back. "You see the logical trap. Yes? If you simply do things because you are asked to? You will be easily monipulated by others. In this world? That? Will kill you quickly. Or, since you are a Seaker... Probably land you in a fate worse than simple, clean. Death. "Thanks? I... Guess? "You are welcom. Besides. You are? Human. You do not deserve to die, for that alone. You have done nothing, to deserve death. If that changes? It matters not, now. Currently? You have. Nothing to fear from me, ${mc_fullname}. I just decide to nod? I. I'm just not going to comment on. What ever. That? Was. *goto t_leaving #"What if I just did it so I could get a chance to get to know you better? I say, smirking. *set bold %+10 *set bold_t true *if (flirt_t) =true *set flirt_t2 true *goto flirt_t_bold *else *set flirt_t true *goto flirt_t_bold #"I... I say, before a robust heat starts to burn up my face. *set shigh %+10 *set t_relationship %+1 *set shigh_t true *if (flirt_t) =true *set flirt_t2 true *goto flirt_t_shigh *else *set flirt_t true *goto flirt_t_shigh *label flirt_bold "What if. I say, smirking. I just did it to get a chance to get to know you better? "At least you did not say, for a chance to get into my pants. ${t_name}'s voice is flat. That would have nessessatated me to knock you unconchus, and *if (t_housecoat) =true I would rather not, have to put your unconcious body into a room for a second time in less than a month. I have found, that I am rather poor, at the duty. *goto flirt_t_bold2 *else *goto flirt_t_bold2 *label flirt_t_bold2 *page_break Well? That escolated. What's a word that is faster than. Quickly? Hmmm. Like the conversation has a rocket under it? Hmmm. That works. . . "You went from. I gesture. That. To. I gesture again. That. How, exactly? "The method matters not. Only? The conclusion. I? Just decide to nod. "Ok. Then? "Good. "For sake of argument, and since you did bring it up? "I have ways of putting you to sleep, that would be so fast? You would not even have time to process what happened. Do you want to learn of them? "Not. First hand? "Do not? Finish that sentence, then. I? Don't finish the sentence. "Was that. The only reason? "No. "Good. We. Shall. See. I shrug, then, nod once. *goto t_leaving *label flirt_t_shigh "I... I start, before heat starts burning it's way up my face, and I have to clamp my now dry, mouth shut. "Are you alright? Your face, seems to have turned a rather. Unhelthy, red color. "Fine. I wrasp. I'm... Fine. Just. Um... Sorry? "I do not know what you think you are to apologize about, now. But... You are blushing. Explain. "I... I sigh. Yes. As to. Why? Well... I promptly blush harder. "Aah. That would explain... I just decide to nod, to stop myself from saying anything else stupider. "Yeah, I think. That's smurt ${mc_first}. Really, smurt, ${mc_surname}... Now. Shut your blowhole before you start talking out your ass or something like that, won't you now? The poor ${t_person} doesn't need that, and won't take it well. Probably think it's litiral too... Considering ${t_their} seeming views on figures of speatch. "If I vacate this area. Will your face return to normal? "Yes? Is all I can get out. I hear nothing in reply. *goto t_leaving *label t_leaving *temp t_walk true "I am going now. I hear. Again. If you must contact us? Do so over the radio. I. Nod? A bit confused why they would give me a radio? Then, just shrug. The why? Doesn't really matter right now. Only... "O, ${t_they} is gone. Well... I grimace, entering my room, closeing the door with a soft snap. *if (flirt_t2) =true *goto flirt_t_curious *else *goto_scene drive reflections *label flirt_t_curious *temp t_sentimental false *temp t_pragmatic false *choice #The immage of ${t_name}, such that it is, pops into my head, causeing my pulse to increase. *set sentimental %+10 *set t_sentimental true The immage. Such that it is? Of ${t_name}, Pops into my head, it's comeing causeing my pulse to increase. *goto flirt_t_curious2 #I shake my head, ridding myself of the forming immage of ${t_fullname}. *set pragmatic %+10 *set t_pragmatic %+10 I shake my head, ridding myself of the forming immage, such that it is, of ${t_fullname}. *goto_scene drive reflections *label flirt_t_curious2 Thud thud thud. ${mc_fullname}. I have a question for you. Kindly open this door. Shrugging? I stand, move, and open the door. "What's up? "The sealing. The ground. The sky. Your doorfraim. *if (mc_hight) ="very short" *goto flirt_t_curious3 *else Your face. *goto flirt_t_curious3 *label flirt_t_curious3 Why do you ask this? . . "Your being? I start, before realizeing that ${t_name}? Is not, in fact, being sarcastic. "No, your not being sarcastic, are you? "No. You asked me a question. I? Answered, your question. You are confused of this. Why? I answer questions, when asked. Unless they are on topics that I deam unsutible for discussion. In which case? I inform the other party. In, a sutible manner. "Um... You know what? How bout I just ask. What do you want to ask? "Why did you not simply ask this in the firstplace? It could have saved time and resources on both our parts. "Would you listen, if I tried to explain slang to you? Keep in mind, that I'm not the primary authority on the subject. Not even sure if "What's up? Is even slang. "Aah. It was... An. Anachronism? Your. Expression. Yes? "I think you have that word the wrong way round? But. Let's go with it, so. Yeah? "Understood. Now. to my question. "You have... If I am reading correctly. Expressed concious interest in me over these last days. *if (flirt_t_sleep) =true 3 times, now. However. I will ignore the time in your room. You were not fully cognicent, and, as such? I will ignore that one, for. Impulsive action. However? The other 2, can not be forgiven, or ignored as such. *goto flirt_t_curious4 *else Twice, now. Though the first could be glossed over, as an. Impulsive action on your part? The second? Can not be so. Shoved under the rug, I believe is the best wording that you would understand. *goto flirt_t_curious4 *label flirt_t_curious4 So, ${mc_fullname}. My question is. Why? Once? I can understand. This has been more than, once. More than, a mis-placed word. A mis-placed reaction. Tell me. True, now, ${mc_fullname}. Do you meen anything by it? Or, is this. What do you call it... A... What was that word you were fond of, that ${d_name} has now... Sigh. Adopted... Funzy? Is this, to you. A. Funzy? I tell you now. If you say. Yes? I will not be offended. However. Neither will I respond to any further advances from you. Am I. Understood? Before you speak. If you say. No? But lie? There will be... Other, consequences. Harsher, consequences. Am I clear? "Yes? "To? Which. "I understand what you are saying. "Good. Now. Speak. "It's. Not? Also. I think you used Funzy incorrectly, but anyway. Well. It's not, a... Funzy? "You are sure of this? "Yes. I say, pushing down my mild annoyance. Though? Well... I can kind of understand the ${t_person}'s desire to. Well... Thrash out the truth. I stand, silently, takeing in several deep breths, calming down. "How long have you known me. ${mc_fullname}? "a week? Give or take a day or so. 10, days now. Do you normally decide on your future, in that short a time? "No, but. I feel a hand move, covering my mouth, cutting my words off, before removeing itself just as quickly. It's. Surprisingly cool? Not cold, but. Surprisingly long fingers... "Do not. The. No? Was answer enough. We? Are? Vampires. All of us. You? Are human. Does your decision stem from. Your fondness for... Romance, novels? *temp anger_insinuation_romance false *temp calm_insinuation roomance false *choice #"Do not. I snarl, loseing my temper, now. *set impulsive %+10 *set heart %+10 *set intimidateing %+10 *set anger_insinuation_romance true "Do not. I snarl, having thoroughly lost my temper now, takeing a single step, getting into the *if (mc_hight) ="very short" *goto t_anger *else shorter *goto t_anger #"No. I say, tone flat. *set mind %+10 *set charming %+10 *set cautious %+10 *set calm_insinuation_romance true "No. I say, thoroughly disgusted by the idea. I do not treet people. Living? Breathing? People? Like they are in. I, am in? A book... I... *goto t_spike *label t_anger ${t_name}'s face, leaning forward. "Well? I think. Shit. So much for trying to calm down... "Insult both me? And You? By implying that I would ttreet you? Or? Anyone? Like they are in a book. I... *goto t_spike *label t_spike Something long, and sharp, and burning? Drives itself through my face. I grunt, rock back, fall to the ground. I don't scream, but that's because the paine is so bad that I can't even muster the effort to do so. if I could... Well. The hallway would echo with them. Or. I would have fallen to the ground, if a hand didn't clamp around my arm like a rotery clamp, stopping my fall. I blink. Why do I smell... Mint? What... What was I... My head... My head... My... There are arms holding me up... I... Lose... Conciousness... *page_break sometime later I wake. Or rather, I come back to myself? Slowly. I blink, blink, blink, then my knows twitches. Why do I smell... Mint? My knows twiches again. Yeah. It's... Mint? But... What? *if (t_housecoat) =true My. Well, ${t_name}'s housecoat that I was loaned, smelles like mint, but... Should have gone knows-blind to that by now? *goto t_concerned2 *else *goto t_concerned2 *label t_concerned2 "${mc_fullname}. You are concious. Yes? I respond with a garbled grunt. "Good enough. Now. Can you stand? I grunt again. Seeming to take that as a. Yes? ${t_name} lifts me to my feet. My head spins, stomach lurching. I stagger, wobble. The hand, currently gripping my shoulder, does not let me fall, however. "Do you remember what we were speaking of? "Romance. Novel. Not. Romance. Novil... I grunt, with effort. Bad. People. Book? Treet? Book people. Treet people book, bad... Not, people, book treet bad? No people treet bad book. "Your response? Was... Satisfactory for my perpuses... Can you stand on your own. I test my legs, and? Finding them. Not quite, as jelly-like as. Well. Jelly? Or. Noodles? Nod, slowly. "Lean against the wall. Here. ${t_name} picks me off the ground with 1 hand, and leans me against the wall, where apon, ${t_they} puts me back on my feet, before removeing ${t_their} hand from my shoulder. I slump, cheek against the cool wood, breaths loud in my ears, head pounding like a gong. "Now. To return to our conversation. ${t_name} says, stepping back. The smell of mint, fadeing as ${t_they} does so. My answer? Is. No. . . "We have known each other for? Less than a month. That? Is no amount of time to even consider, baseing a relationship with a Normal human, let alone a Vampire. Let alone. Me, on. Do not. ${t_name} snaps, as I open my mouth. Interupt. Me. I have not finished speaking. Do I interupt when you wish to speak? "No. I mutter. "Well then. I would apretiate it, if you extend me the same kirtisy. I? nod. I will give you? 2, months. If you still wish to. Consider? This? At that time. We will speak again. if not? We will part, with. No bad feelings on my end. Am. I. Understood? "Yes. I grunt, since. Well. Not like I could say anything else. Also, mouth is still dry from. What happened earlier. My skin crawls at the memmory of the agganizeing metal spike? "Good. Now. Can you return to your room, or do you require assistance? Do not, use this to make a joke. If you do? I. Will. Leave. Am I understood? "I. I grunt, leavering myself off the wall. Slowly. Can... Get in, alright... Thanks... For... Concern... Know? "Good. In that case? I will depart. You still hold your radio. Do you not? I blink, focus, then. Yeah? It's in my hand... "Show me. Shrugging? I open my palm, the small disk sitting in the center. "Good. Now. Return to your room. I will instruct ${z_name}, to take you to medical. He should be here, in about 10 minutes. ${f_name} will tell us more. With that? ${t_name} turns, and moves away, down the hallway. *temp t_spike true *choice #"${t_name}? I call. *set stubborn %+10 *set heart %+10 *set friendly %+10 *set genuin %+10 *set likes_mint true "${t_name}? I call after the fadeing footfalls. They halt. "What is it. Speak quickly. "You smell like mint. "I am aware of this fact. You do not need to enlighten me of it. "It's... Nice. Mint, I mean. I like the smell of. Well. Mint? "Return to your room. With that? I hear 4 footsteps, then nothing. I know, ${t_they} is gone, though. *goto return_room #I don't speak. *set easyGoing %+10 *set mind %+10 *set reserved %+10 *set sarcastic %+10 I do not speak, simply letting ${t_name} move away, till ${t_their} footfalls are lost in the hallway. Anyway. The hell would I say? "O. You smell like mint. Yeah? That would go over well. Considering all the other stuff. Anyway? The ${t_person} already made ${t_their} pozission clear. Talking now? Will not but make waves, and you never know where a wave will fall, after all. So? I don't talk. *goto return_room *label return_room With that? I turn, and, slowly, make my way to my room, opening, entering, and closeing my door behind me. *goto reflections *label walk_l We move. My hand on ${l_name}'s arm. ${l_they} *if (mc_hight) ="tall" matching my own stride lengths, do to the fact of our similor hights. *goto walk_l2 *elseif (mc_hight) ="very tall" Matching my slightly longer strides with no complaint, drawing a grateful feeling from me. Despite this? I shorten mine just slightly, in order to make it just that little bit easier for ${l_them}. Vampire or not? It's the decent thing to do. Anyway. Guide, A K A, ${l_name}? Is technicly supposed to be 1 step in front. So. *goto walk_l2 *else shortening ${l_their} strides to keep up with me, and so I don't have to jog. I smile at the gesture. It is nice of ${l_them} to do, especially since ${l_they}, being the guide, I would technicly, have to walk at what ever pase ${l_they} sets. So. Nice of ${l_name} to be decent about it. *goto walk_l2 *label walk_l2 "Thanks for. I gesture at my legs. "No thanks are needed. I hear in reply. It would be rude, of me not to. Anyway. You have been through enough of a. Shock? Over the last days, without... You know. I nod. if I may ask? How long have you been blind for? "Hole life. I grunt, shrugging. Thrown for a bit of a loop by 1? The bluntness of the question, and? 2. The fact that ${l_they} would care enough to ask, given. Well. The situation I find myself in. "You are. Totally blind. yes? I nod, before thinking. "Just hope ${l_they} doesn't start gushing about insperations. I know the people who do that are trying to be nice? But. It's gotten to the point where it rings a tad hollow, and sort of pisses me off. "What is it? "What is it. What? "You have your face scrunched up like you think I am going to do something unplezent. "People. I say. At this point? Start gushing about how they are so dam inspired by me and shit. I know they are doing it because. Well. Genuinly? But, it's been done so many times it pisses me the hell off most of the time at this point more than anything else. I don't blaim them? I know there not trying to, but... I let out a deep sigh, shoulders slumping as I do. "Well? I was not, for your infermation, though I can understand why you might assume, such. I nod. You have, if I may say so. Adapted to it rather well. Though? Since. If it was for your entire lifespan? You wouldn't know anything else. Would you? "You sound like. I say. You have a lot of questions? "I do. But... I understand, if you don't want to talk about them. Especially since. Well. You just met us, and all. There is a pause. In which, I assume that ${l_name} isn't going to say, "Also, the Vampire thing. Still not quite sure why that's supposed to be such a big deal? So? There Vampires. That's like near the bottem of the. WTF? Pole I have been introduced to over the last week. Not that I really cared about thata fact when I was first told it anyway. More the fact that I did not care so much. "I. Well. Have not met many blind people in my time. At least? Many who would answer my questions, at any rate. However? I won't ask now. As I said. You just met us, so... I nod with a shrug. "Your. English? I decide to ask. Might as well get that streightened up. Would hate to have been thinking of ${l_name} as the in-correct nationality the hole time we have known each other. Some people wouldn't have a particular problem with it? But then again? Some, find it a massive insult to be thoughts as such. So... Better safe than sorry. Right? "You said your from. Ontario, yes? ${l_name} says, cutting short my thoughts. Also? I notice, side-stepping my question. O well. "Yeah. I open my mouth to say, GTA? But then, close it again. I still don't know these people well enough. Well enough, to tell them anything about my family. "It's fine. I feel a hand touch my forearm. Ontario is enough. I understand your reluctance. I nod, with a slight smile. "Thank you. It's not... You? But... It's. There all I have. You know? The fact your Vampires doesn't matter. If I tell you? You can find them. If you can find them? They are potencialy in harm's way, and. Well. As I am now? I can't do anything to get them out of, harm's way. A harm's way, that if I told you? I would have a part, no matter how small? In putting them in. That? I will not. I can? Not. Do. If that makes sence? "That. ${l_name} says, slowly. Makes more sence to me? Than I would rather it do, ${mc_fullname}. I do not begrudge you, your secrets. We. All, have them. Some? More damming than others. *if (l_housecoat) =true *goto l_housecoat *else *goto walk_l3 *label l_housecoat We laps back into silance. I shift my shoulders, feeling the housecoat shift as I do so. I grimace, as I remember I don't have anything else to change into at the moment. Well. I do have that 1 other set of clothes? But... That's only 1 set. So. I don't... "You can keep that, if you want. ${l_name}'s voice pulles me out of my thoughts. I mean, when you have more clothes than. There should be some of... I will have to talk to the team? But. If they agree? We can get you stuff. Makeing someone ware only 1 thing all the time is... Unsifisticated, and. Well. Inhumane. I? ${l_name}'s tone hardens now. Will not allow that to be done? To. Anyone. Else. *temp l_reaction false *choice #"Thanks, ${l_name}. I say with a smile. *set l_relationship %+3 *set genuin %+10 *set heart %+10 *set l_reaction true "Thanks, ${l_name}. I say, a swell of emotion flareing up inside, a smile comeing to my lips. I O you... "No. ${l_name} growls, voice raw, furious. Really, really, really, furious. The mussled arm I hold, going hard as rock under my hand. I yelp, jumping back, stumble, and land on my ass with a grunt of surprise, my hand slapping the floor as I land, causeing a reverberation to travel up my hand and arm into my elbow. I skuttle backwards till my back impacts the wall. All I can think of is... Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck... What I. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck... This is the nice one, by all I have seen. ${l_name} is the one who. I have. Never. Seen. Even a little bit angry. Not that means a hole lot, since I have not known that they existed, for more than 2 weeks or so, give or take a day. Or, how ever long. Point is? Not very long. The. What did I do, to get ${l_them} this pissed at me? . . "${mc_first}. Are you alright? I blink. There is no hint of the anger in ${l_name}'s tone, now. No fury. No growl. Nothing to even hint, of the fury displayed just moments earlier. Also. Why is ${l_name}'s voice sounding from such short a hight? Just about half a foot over my head, give or take a bit. "Um... "My anger was not directed at you, ${mc_first}. I. I am sorry, that I let it overwellm... here... I feel a large hand grip my arm, gently pulling me back to my feet, before the hand moves to my shoulder. "If you wish? I will ask another team member to escort you the rest of the way back. I would, understand if this has... Mared? Your general dispozission towards me. "No. I mutter. No, it's... I... "There is nothing to apoligize about. ${l_name}'s tone. While still warm? Has steal barried deep, now. You did nothing wrong. My reaction was... Not related to you. Your comment? Yes, but. Not. You. I should be the one apoligizeing, not the other way around. I have had time to deal with this. Time? That this proves, could have been better spent. "It's. I mutter. Fine... We all have... I grimace, rubbing my face. You know. Things that. I shrug, gestureing with a hand. Things that get us going? "That is true. You are sure you are alright? "Yeah. I say. Kind of feeling silly for startling. You just got mad. it's not like you blew out... A fireball? I cast about for. Yeah. Or... I don't know. A. Fireball? "Vampires don't brethe fire. ${l_name} says, laughing. I grin back. ${d_name}'s display is... "O yeah. I think. I forgot that ${d_they} can throw fireballs... Gulp... "You are sure? "Yeah. I grunt. "In that case? I feel the hand removed from my shoulder, then an arm brush my fingertips? I, grab it once again, before we continue moveing. *goto walk_l3 #I decide to keep quiet. I can thank ${l_name}, when I have some extra clothes, after all. *set cautious %+10 *set mind %+10 *set reserved %+10 I decide to keep quiet. I can thank ${l_name} for ${l_their} genorosity? When I have more clothes, after all. *goto l_conversation3 *label l_conversation3 We continue forwards in silance. "What's. I start, decideing that I probably should get as much infermation as I can. You people don't seem to like seakers, much? Judging by your reaction earlier. Also, well. "That's? Complecated. The last seaker we met? Was... Well? Not someone who you would want to meet. It was. A long time ago. at least... Doesn't matter. Regardless? We have, scars. For some, they are. More... Brutal, is the only word I can think to use. than others. That doesn't mean we inharrintly dislike you, however. "Well, most of us. ${n_name}? Is... Well... ${n_name}. You won't have a problem with ${n_them}, though. "Why? I can't help myself from asking. Considering. Well. I rub my neck with my free hand. "I have asked ${n_them} to not do that again. A hand grabs my own, removeing it from where I am still rubbing at my neck before releacing it once more. Anyway. ${n_they} is harsh? But, ${n_they} won't do anything unless you directly thretone the unit. As in, deliberitly. So? You shouldn't have to worry. I? Nod. Decideing that I might not actually want to know? How far that... Deliberitley thretoneing the unit? Goes. "${mc_first}. ${l_name} says, tone soffening. Unless you do something like. Intentionally, and knowingly bring people who want to harm us here? Or, attack 1. No, never mind that, you have already done that. Speaking of. ${n_they} won't judge you for that. I think it was more amuseing to ${n_them} than anyting else. Point is? You are not going to have a problem from us. Any, of us, unless you knowingly, and intentionally, do something that aimes to destroy us. I don't think your that person. Are you? I decide that the best thing to do? Is to just not answer that one. Regardless of intencion? I know a trap when I see. Here, one. "See? You will be fine. Also? Were here. With that? The arm I am holding slows down, finally stopping, before I hear a tap, tap, tap, of what I am pretty sure is a fingernale on metal. Reaching for the sound? I feel the smooth doorhandle, and open it with a soft click, before backing into the room. It's rude to turn your back on someone, after all. "${mc_first}? If I may ask 1 final question? "What's up. "Never use that with ${t_name}? ${t_they} will think your being litiral, and start describeing the things above ${t_their} head. "Seriasly? "Yes. It happened once. The ${t_name} then spent the next 40 minutes describeing each individual candle in a Manora. It was... Odly? Soothing, actually. Anyway. My question. Why me? I mean. Why did you ask me to acumpony you? If you want to answer. It's not that important overall? But I am curious. *if (walk_l2) =true You have requested my presence. Twice. Once? I can understand. Twice, though. I am, curious. If I may? *goto answer_l *else *goto answer_l *label answer_l *choice #"You seemed. The friendliest? *set l_relationship %+3 *set genuin %+10 *set l1 true "You seemed. I start... Well. The friendlyest of the group? I guess? "Fare enough. Is that it? "Yeah? Mostly? "Well. Thank you, for being honest. I do like to think of myself as the. Friendlyest? Of us, at least, on first meeting. You could say, it's... A, professional pride of mine? In a way. I nod. *goto l_leaving *if (l_housecoat) =true #"You were the one who braught me down here? *set cautious %+10 *set pragmatic %+10 *set l_relationship %+1 *set l_2 true "You were the one who braught me down here. Well. To the living room, the first time? I say. Figured... "That is the only reason then. Caution? "Yeah? Well... I mean. You seem nice? But. The caution thing sort of trumped that? "I understand. Thank you for your honesty. Some? Would have tried to lie, or something else. I shrug. Not really sure how to answer that? "You asked? You deserve an honest answer. You have given me honest answers, as far as I know? Since I met you. I should return the kurtasy. If nothing else? It's polite, and I do try to think of myself. Least in this? As a. Polite? Person. I say, after a while of thought, before shrugging once again. "I am happy that you value me highly enough to think that, ${mc_first}. I, nod, a bit confused at the note in the ${l_person}'s tone. *goto l_leaving #"What if I just wanted a chance to get to know you more? I say with a smirk. *set flirt_bold_l true *set bold %+10 *set l_relationship %+3 *if (flirt_l) =true *set flirt_l2 true *set stubborn %+10 *goto flirt_l_bold *else *set flirt_l true *set impulsive %+10 *goto flirt_l_bold #"I. I start, before a furious heat starts burning up my face. *set shigh %+10 *set heart %+10 *set l_relationship %+5 *set flirt_shigh_l true *if (flirt_l) =true *set flirt_l2 true *goto flirt_l_shigh *else *set flirt_l true *goto flirt_l_shigh # I remaine silent. *set l_relationship -3 *set cautious %+10 *set indirect %+10 I remaine silent, not answering the question. "As you wish. I did indicate that you did not have to do so, if you did not wish to do so. I hear, then, silance. *goto l_leaving *label flirt_l_bold "What if. I say, a smirk pulling at my lips. I just wanted a chance to get to know you better? . . "Are you. Yanking my chain? "No? Why would I yank your chain about something like this? I say, smirk ffalling away to be replaced by a confused expression. "${mc_first}. You are aware. We just met. yes? As in. 3 weeks ago. Neither of us knew the other existed. ${l_their} tone is. Not angry, just... Slightly confused? Admonishing, perhaps? "Yeah? "Do you normally atempt to flirt with people whom you just met after sutch short a time? I shrug, my confadince starting to crumble a bit under ${l_name}'s fuzilade. "I am going to leave, now. ${l_they} says. Think on your actions. Please? I nod, knowing when a fight, or. What ever this has turned into? Is lost. I mean. At least the ${l_person} didn't blow up in my face? Or be insulted, or what not? I mean. it's. Me, were talking about here. As I think this? I feel a hand grip my shoulder, squeeze, then let go. *goto l_leaving *label flirt_l_shigh I. I start, before a furious, and remarkibly robust, heat starts burning it's way up my face, and my mouth goes dry. I? Shut my mouth. . . "I wanted. I manage to croak out, after a while. To. "Spend time with me. ${l_name} finishes, a hand patting my arm. Is that correct? I don't hear the rest of the ${l_person}'s sentence, because my brain realizes that ${l_name}'s face is clocer to mine now, and decides to send my body the message. "More heat! More heat! More! More! More! Let's see how hot we can get this! Well. Not that. Exactly? But, the results are the same, pretty mutch. "My parden. I hear, before the hand vanishes from my shoulder, and I hear several soft footfalls moveing backward. There is water inside, if you need it. "Though? You would know that, since. You have spent a week in there... I? Just nod, doubting my ability to speek right now. *goto l_leaving *label l_leaving *temp choose_l_walk false "Why did you accept? I can't help myself from asking, as I stop inside. My? Room. "You needed assistance. I get in reply. Helping people? It's kind of in my blood, shall we say. Anyway. I know what it's like, to be in a strange place. Not sure where you are. Who you are? What, you are. So? I did what I wish someone had done for me, back then. I helped. With that? I hear ${l_name}'s footfalls moveing away. Nodding? Slightly confused by the tone at the end there? I shrug, turn, and close the door. I have, stuff to do, after all... *if (flirt_l2) =true *goto_scene drive flirt_l_curious *else *goto_scene drive reflections