Morgrym smiles at Kathleen and answers on his phone Oh yes I understand Beth, why don't you send me a picture of how well practice is going and text it like normal, eh? Then you and I can get together sometime this week and spend some quality time together. Oh yes yes, you will have to send a text everyday this week just to show me how awesome you are doing until we meet.
"Don't try to be clever, Mr. Black. You won't be tracing this." The voice on the phone says "But in a gesture of good faith. And so you know we're serious."
A picture comes back, your sister looking with wide eyes as she's standing against a featureless concrete wall.
And the call hangs up. Apparently they figure you can take them seriously now.
Kathleen, none the wiser, smiles, "How's Beth?"
Yup. You hear it all!
(To recap)
"I'm just saying the guy's a nut, but he sure knows how to edit." "Really? Denise think's he's a toad" "Denise is no ray of sunshine either""What do you mean our regular sponsorship is going down? We can't lose sponsors, it'll murder us" Sounds like some sponsors have abruptly pulled out.
"Mei is pushing to broaden her investigation onto some whack job blood theft at a hospital" "She might be over stepping" "Well, I have the job on the story on why the Deputy Mayor is taking a vacation at a well known rehab center. Gossip is the guy is having withdrawals" "Juicy"
Not that same woman's voice from last night though. Just dangling threads running a stray you can try to pull on if you want to see if there's a pattern.
And, of course, you're getting work done as you listen in.
Lawrence half-asses his job, doing the minimum required. After finishing the very basic edits required, he starts googling for "Phoenix Arizona Godzilla" and "Phoenix Arizona Rehab Center"
[dice=Intelligence+Investigation]4d10+0d10
Half Assing buys you time to play with .
There are no real clues on the first search, but the rehab center search actually gets you some details on three likely candidates for locales. Actually, one seems high end, and promises discretion. You're pretty sure that's the one a deputy Mayor would be: Serenity Center -Phoenix.
While it tries to project an image of a place to relax and de-stress, it's also a place to 'detox'. Gated, it has security and privacy.
Mei comes in sometime after that looking both a bit tired, and energized at the same time. She's on the hunt for truth, and that works for her.
You could talk to Mei, or call your sister to see if she got in contact with her cosplaying nurse friend, or..well, whatever.
Morgrym sits there for a moment and says she decided to take the week between games to try and work a new and difficult routine incorporating more of her gymnastics and is training with a gymnast friend of hers off facility. Could you go ahead and let the team know when you see stop by. She is always so... Disorganized and spontaneous.
Half Assing buys you time to play with .There are no real clues on the first search, but the rehab center search actually gets you some details on three likely candidates for locales. Actually, one seems high end, and promises discretion. You're pretty sure that's the one a deputy Mayor would be: Serenity Center -Phoenix.
While it tries to project an image of a place to relax and de-stress, it's also a place to 'detox'. Gated, it has security and privacy.
Mei comes in sometime after that looking both a bit tired, and energized at the same time. She's on the hunt for truth, and that works for her.
You could talk to Mei, or call your sister to see if she got in...
Lawrence's eye twitches as he shoots a quick text to his sister.TXT: No luck on Godzilla hunt, you?
After sending the text Lawrence makes another Google search but for "smaller god". Probably a long shot but no stone unturned.
While mulling over the results he calls Mei over."M-mei your investig-gation turn up anything?"
"Oh hi Priscilla.
Yeah, we have a class together with Professor Waret. So funny to run into you here, I was going to do some extra work today as I had the day off from my job.
Glad to see a familiar face. How are you doing?"
Morgrym sits there for a moment and says she decided to take the week between games to try and work a new and difficult routine incorporating more of her gymnastics and is training with a gymnast friend of hers off facility. Could you go ahead and let the team know when you see stop by. She is always so... Disorganized and spontaneous.
"She is full of energy, no doubt," Kathleen nods "I'll let it be known. Wouldn't want her to lose her spot." You have a lovely brunch, though Kathleen brings up the subject of how expensive places and rent are getting for any SINGLE Individual in passing.
Clearly she's hinting.
When Brunch ends, you get out ahead of the lunch crowd. Getting your hands on the flare gun and gas won't be hard if you still wish to.
Lawrence's eye twitches as he shoots a quick text to his sister.TXT: No luck on Godzilla hunt, you?
You do get a text back TXT: My friend tells me there's a godzilla triple feature tonight at the drive in theatre outside the city. It's not her fandom, but it's all she's got
After sending the text Lawrence makes another Google search but for "smaller god". Probably a long shot but no stone unturned.
Intelligence+Investigation: 4d10 + 0d10 ⇒ (9, 1, 5, 8) + (-) = 23
While mulling over the results he calls Mei over.
All you find is a song, which may not be related to this at all or it could be...
In the violent silence
Of a dream within a dream
You fill my soul with beauty
You're my shiny man machine
I'm sinking in the roses
Falling down to fade away
The velvet blade of apathy
Makes the crush so bittersweet
(CHORUS)
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
Your presence is the morning
Your absence is the night
I'm searching your dark hallways
Trying to find the light
Swimming your sad ocean
I'm drowning in your sea
This will all be over soon
And we'll learn to live again
(CHORUS)
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
In the evening stars I see your eyes
I hear you speak to me
I miss you now so much it aches
So broken so afraid
(CHORUS)
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
And I, I could have died last night
But I heard the voice of a smaller god
"M-mei your investig-gation turn up anything?"
"Lawrence, I am almost sure others are investigating this who are NOT cops. Whoever they are, they dress more like punks or a streetgang. I'm wondering if they know more than I do. If I can track them down, I can question them, learn why they're investigaging. All signs are the killer is one person , so why the Edgier Scoobies?"
"Oh hi Priscilla.
Yeah, we have a class together with Professor Waret. So funny to run into you here, I was going to do some extra work today as I had the day off from my job.
Glad to see a familiar face. How are you doing?"
"I'm doing well thanks," She runs fingers over her left ear to push some hair into place. "I've been kind of reading ahead of the class material..." Sheepishly, "Found a copy of a book by Alister Crowley. Weird huh?" a light blush, "The Great Beast he fancied himself. Had a 'do what thou wilt, that will be the whole of the law' attitude. Doesn't sound ..practical for long term societal functioning, but interesting." Her gaze to you tells you she hopes it's interesting and that your'e not going to call her a weirdo.
You do get a text back TXT: My friend tells me there's a godzilla triple feature tonight at the drive in theatre outside the city. It's not her fandom, but it's all she's got
All you find is a song, which may not be related to this at all or it could be...
"Lawrence, I am almost sure others are investigating this who are NOT cops. Whoever they are, they...
"Hmm. K-killer got a buddy? Or client? Ven-geance? Maybe they're l-looking out for him, like he's a f-friend gone missing?"
"D-do you w-want to in-investigate a drive-in-in theater to-night. Could b-be a lead. C-could be unre-lated. H-had a break-in they le-heft a n-note ab-bout Godzilla."
Lawrence stammers out the question with increasing amounts of sweat and eye twitches as it sounds almost like he's asking her on a date.
"Hmm. K-killer got a buddy? Or client? Ven-geance? Maybe they're l-looking out for him, like he's a f-friend gone missing?"
"I don't know, but I want to know what THEY know" She admits. She looks a bit nervous, after all, she's going after a group, but then she resolves, "And I'm gonna find out."
"D-do you w-want to in-investigate a drive-in-in theater to-night. Could b-be a lead. C-could be unre-lated. H-had a break-in they le-heft a n-note ab-bout Godzilla."
Lawrence stammers out the question with increasing amounts of sweat and eye twitches as it sounds almost like he's asking her on a date.
For a moment, Mei looks at you at you baffled but then she processes ALL Of it, "Wait, you had a break in?" She moves at you to comfort, "Lawrence, are you okay? Is your sister? I know you live with her. Did you call the police?"
"I only know Crowley because of an old Ozzy Osbourne song, my Dad was a big fan.
He was the head of some kind of Cult in England called the Golden Dawn. Hedonism, right up the Professor's alley I think.
Me I prefer a one man one woman type of relationship. What about you?" Dylan gives a slight grin.
"I don't know, but I want to know what THEY know" She admits. She looks a bit nervous, after all, she's going after a group, but then she resolves, "And I'm gonna find out."
For a moment, Mei looks at you at you baffled but then she processes ALL Of it, "Wait, you had a break in?" She moves at you to comfort, "Lawrence, are you okay? Is your sister? I know you live with her. Did you call the police?"
"We're f-fine, physically. Mmmight be a bit on e-edge, mentally. No Police." The last part comes out with a pleading tone. The last thing I need is the police looking for a way to pin it on the crazy brother and searching the basement.
Lawrence mutters "Unre-registered F-firearms."Clearing his throat he continues "Ei-either way I'll k-keep an eye out for y-your gang of pu-punks."
Michael stares as Tiffany quotes his own song lyrics back at him, then joins Kevin in gales of relieved laughter.
"If there was ever a better sign of karma, I think that was it right there." He manages to gasp out in between laughs.
Natalie joins you both in the laughter and agrees, "I wonder if her dad even knows?"
Marsha doesn't see what's so funny, then again she wouldn't, but really, it doesn't matter that she doesn't.
That bastard's daughter is a fan of your band, and that's golden.
The following hour and a half is actually enjoyable. I mean, Kevin being happy helps make you and Natalie happy, and Nicole is the kind of parent some folks never get but wish they did. The Chili? The Chili is good.
And when you head out, Kevin says to both of you, "Thanks for coming along, guys. I appreciate it."
"Hey, not like we didn't get anything out of it. Your mama can cook," She gives Kevin a kiss on the cheek, "Just don't expect the rest of us to get domesticated. Mmm kay?"
"Never," He smiles
Soon enough, time is closing on both sunset and another show, and you're not surprised to see that table with those two guys and T.C. again.
Natalie almost acts GIRLISH to see her waiting in the audience again.
Michael looks between Natalie & T.C. "...okay, Nat, what is it about her that made you go this nuts over her already?" He asks, his expression turning a mix of puzzled and worried.
"I mean, Kevin and I had to work twice as hard for longer--and have a pretty deep conversation--for you to do the same for us." He tries to joke. "If she has some sort of secret trick, I gotta know."
"I only know Crowley because of an old Ozzy Osbourne song, my Dad was a big fan.He was the head of some kind of Cult in England called the Golden Dawn. Hedonism, right up the Professor's alley I think.
Me I prefer a one man one woman type of relationship. What about you?" Dylan gives a slight grin.
Yup, a blush escapes, "I do too, but you know how it is, the forbidden is all the more appealing because it is held back from us. I think Crowley knew how to capitalize on that. Could be the Professor does to. Mind you, the professor is brilliant." Priscilla admits, a curious look, "I imagine your girlfriend is glad for your loyalty."
"We're f-fine, physically. Mmmight be a bit on e-edge, mentally. No Police." The last part comes out with a pleading tone. The last thing I need is the police looking for a way to pin it on the crazy brother and searching the basement.
Lawrence mutters "Unre-registered F-firearms."
Clearing his throat he continues "Ei-either way I'll k-keep an eye out for y-your gang of pu-punks."
"Thanks, just be careful." Mei looks at you, "Godzilla was referenced? So you think it was a clue to go to this movie drive in tonight. Well, you know, it's strange, but maybe in this case it is interconnected. Even if it's not, then maybe we can get a clue on who is behind your break and entering. The police are too busy for that sort of thing right now. Sure ,I'll go with you tonight. You might need back up."
Morgrym leans in and says I am coordinating a couple of jobs which are high profile and need attention but we will address a plan for mutual cohabitation within a couple of weeks, alright? and Morgrym gives Kathleen a kiss and says stay with security to and from your car and follow security protocols otherwise, I deal with shifty people so you can't be too careful
Morgrym departs and goes to the car and leaves the area and considers calling his boss but knows they will kill him just for the idea.
To the Dead Moon Hotel.
Michael looks between Natalie & T.C. "...okay, Nat, what is it about her that made you go this nuts over her already?" He asks, his expression turning a mix of puzzled and worried.
"I mean, Kevin and I had to work twice as hard for longer--and have a pretty deep conversation--for you to do the same for us." He tries to joke. "If she has some sort of secret trick, I gotta know."
Hand on her hip , "Nuts ALREADY? I'm not nuts I just think she's.. kind of perfect."
"A bit nuts," Kevin agrees with you, "Sorry, Natalie, I mean, no judge, but normally you're the one who has folks banging at your door. With T.C, it seems you're kind of the groupie?" Then he winces realizing that may not go over well.
Natalie shoots dark looks, but then takes a breath and considers it seriously, "I don't know really. I just.. find her intensely fascinating, alluring. It's like.... well, I don't know if it's LOVE at first sight, never believed in that but.. for me it's like how are you two NOT smitten by her? "
"Does she treat you right?" Kevin asks, possibly a question you wanted to.
"It was one night, but yeah. It wasn't just... you know, sexy fun time. We talked about the creative process, and how we can get lost into it. How the music sometimes lets us think we're in charge of it only to twist in our hands and become more than we ever thought it possible. SHe's not a musician herself but she knows so much about it layman wise I could tell she adores that about me.."
Kevin relaxes a bit though still is curious.
The MC is ready to announce you.
Dylan grins, "I agree, the forbidden is appealing, but all things in moderation right? And if you revel in excess doesn't the forbidden become mundane?
Plus, if we all just did what we wanted it would be anarchy right?
I don't think a guy like Crowley wanted anarchy, I think he wanted a bunch of people to do stuff for him so he didn't have to. What better way then to become some sort of mysterious cult figure".
Dylan shrugs, "Between work and wrestling, I don't have a girlfriend, been on a bunch of dates the last few years but most girls on campus just want to "have fun". No one wants a relationship.
So, what other further reading did you do for the class? I'm impressed, I am usually just trying to keep up with course work when it's due much less get ahead". Dylan switches the topic to keep her a bit off balance, no need for her to know he's here just for her!
Morgrym leans in and says I am coordinating a couple of jobs which are high profile and need attention but we will address a plan for mutual cohabitation within a couple of weeks, alright? and Morgrym gives Kathleen a kiss and says stay with security to and from your car and follow security protocols otherwise, I deal with shifty people so you can't be too careful
Morgrym departs and goes to the car and leaves the area and considers calling his boss but knows they will kill him just for the idea.
To the Dead Moon Hotel.
Kathleen kisses you as you tell her the idea will at least be considered, "Always worrying about me. You take care of yourself."
And you're off...
To the Deadmoon Motel..looks like someone tried to create a scene for a set for a cowboy movie, then changed their mind and just built a motel using what parts had been assembled. It's a cluttering dusty looking cheap place in a bad part of town. Despite this, they do have guests judging by the cars parked even in the daylight.
You're not seeking a car, but a motorcycle, and you find one niched between a pickup near a dumpster.
You're not sure which room that lady and more importantly the files might be in, but at least you know which side of the two story motel it's likely to be.
"To be fair, I haven't met her yet." Michael jokes, his worry not quite soothed. "You're gonna introduce us to her once we're done our set, okay?"
With that, he takes to the stage.
Dylan grins, "I agree, the forbidden is appealing, but all things in moderation right? And if you revel in excess doesn't the forbidden become mundane?
Plus, if we all just did what we wanted it would be anarchy right?
I don't think a guy like Crowley wanted anarchy, I think he wanted a bunch of people to do stuff for him so he didn't have to. What better way then to become some sort of mysterious cult figure".
Dylan shrugs, "Between work and wrestling, I don't have a girlfriend, been on a bunch of dates the last few years but most girls on campus just want to "have fun". No one wants a relationship.
So, what other further reading did you do for the class? I'm impressed, I am usually just trying to keep up with course work when it's due much less get ahead". Dylan switches the topic to keep her a bit off balance, no need for her to know he's here just for her!
Your strategy of keeping her off balance seems to work, but she also has a scholarly side she shares with you, "Funny you should mention moderation. The professor and I were talking one night and he said that if one lives a life dedicated to vices, indulging in a virtue can be seen as a form of rebellion too."
At your mention of your very busy schedule and no regular girfriend, you'd like to imagine she looked hopeful, or at least intrigued, but you swap it back to studies "Well thanks. I have to admit, I am finding philosophy a lot more interesting than I thought it would. Pretty sure if this was accounting I'd be doing just what the course required and no more. But the way I see it, if I can ace this, maybe even extra credit, it carries over to my overall GPA. I'm not going to be valedictorian, but still, being in the top ten percent can't hurt employment chances later" With reluctance she looks at the clock on the wall, "Oh I need to get ready to go to a class. History course."
"To be fair, I haven't met her yet." Michael jokes, his worry not quite soothed. "You're gonna introduce us to her once we're done our set, okay?"
"Fine, She's wonderful. I'm sure you'll see it too" Nat smirks and swats your butt just before you get onto the stage.
The crowd tonight is much bigger than last night, word of a good performance spreads fast and the Chain-Breakers had a GREAT one yesterday.
Once more, you , Kevin and Natalie bring the thunder and the fury, the message and the madness. You are feeling at the top of your game despite concerns about Natalie, if anything she seems inspired to do even better herself.
You're pretty sure as you finish up that night's performance, that you've made some new fans. One perfect night is like lightning, rare and brilliant. Two? You've got a hurricane of glory forming and ready to pour and pound for days.
You honestly think the owner of the place thinks you're angels from heaven for how you're helping fill the seats.
But it's not the owner you want to talk to, and sure enough, after a rush where Kevin, to his amusement and surprise, is asked to sign a body part, you guys get a meeting with TC.
"Hey, you must be Bones and Kevin, Natalie told me a lot about you," The woman smiles like a nordic goddess greeting the Aurora, looking you two over, "These are my friends. D-Man and Trevor."
D-man, the punker Latino from last night nods, "You got a lot of rage in your music. I appreciate that."
"Hey," Trevor just nods. Despite his leather jacket, seems the most vanilla of the three. While he had a good time, you get the feeling his usual music is pop... poor bastard.
...holy goddamn.
Michael blinks as he's finally in the presence of Natalie's newest crush. "...okay, I'm a bit relieved to see Nat's taste in ladies hasn't dulled."
He looks over at D-Man when he mentions the rage in his music. "What can I say--I've got a lot of material to work with, and it's a bit more constructive of an outlet than, say, drugs."
"Top ten percent.
That's a feat.
With all that extra credit in Philosophy I think you afford to skip your next class and come to lunch with me, now. Gluttony, indulging in a vice, I think you need some practice with vice. Are you game?"
...holy g!&%&+n.
Michael blinks as he's finally in the presence of Natalie's newest crush. "...okay, I'm a bit relieved to see Nat's taste in ladies hasn't dulled."
He looks over at D-Man when he mentions the rage in his music. "What can I say--I've got a lot of material to work with, and it's a bit more constructive of an outlet than, say, drugs."
T.C. looks more amused than anything, "Natalie is clearly a woman with high standards, judging by the fact you two aren't half bad looking yourselves."
D-Man seems to get what you're saying, "You know what they say, scratch a cynic, find a wounded idealist? Sometimes it's the same for those of us with tempers. We want a better world and really ticked at those keeping it from happening while telling us it's all good. We're pissed because we ran out of tears and those tears got us no where."
"Easy, D-Man, ease up on the pulpit. We just met the guys," Trevor says.
Kevin says "Oh don't worry, Bones has opinions and can go on a rant too. Makes for good lyrics suggestions."
Trevor grins at D-Man at that, "Hey, you two might get along."
That was said like he expected you two would see a lot more of each other.
Something about the way Trevor said that causes an itch in the back of Michael's skull.
"Might get along?" He chuckles. "What, you guys hoping to become our roadies or something?"
"Top ten percent.
That's a feat.
With all that extra credit in Philosophy I think you afford to skip your next class and come to lunch with me, now. Gluttony, indulging in a vice, I think you need some practice with vice. Are you game?"
She blushes and you can tell she's tempted, "I don't know I'm.. well..."
[dice=Perception + Empathy]2d10+1d10
Something about the way Trevor said that causes an itch in the back of Michael's skull.
"Might get along?" He chuckles. "What, you guys hoping to become our roadies or something?"
D-man breaks into a laugh at that. TC gawks, perhaps borderline offended. Trevor's jaw drops
"Oh man, on one hand , you're not dim.. on the other hand, that's what you think? You got balls on you, Bones." D-Man finally says "No, no.. we're considering bringing you into our club... killer benefits." A wry look, then he says "And a lot more resources than you ever imagined to keep fighting the good fight..and I don't mean money."
"For a moment I thought you were a recording label" Natalie admits
"Not exactly, but if you want a piece of this city's music industry , maybe own something like this club where you call the shots? Yeah," T.C explains to you all "But it's got it's down sides, it's dangers."
"Everyone is in danger," Trevor says "Everyone in Phoenix anyway. We're offering a fighting chance."
D-Man agrees, "Course we're still not sure on you, but you definitely are proving to be a winner all around bones. I'll give you that. You can play like a demon, fight like the devil, and you know when stuff's going on even if you pick the wrong mystery box. Not bad, man."
Michael listens until the trio mentions that everyone in Phoenix is in danger. "In danger?"
"I mean, there was something about an 'Encanto Killer' in the news." He says before his expression darkens. "Of course, given how cops are worthless at best, you'd be correct."
Morgrym drives past looking for the fire escape and any cameras or a way to get to the roof from a close by building any entrance that isn't the front door so he can sneak in.
Michael listens until the trio mentions that everyone in Phoenix is in danger. "In danger?"
"I mean, there was something about an 'Encanto Killer' in the news." He says before his expression darkens. "Of course, given how cops are worthless at best, you'd be correct."
"One of our friends, she's not here tonight, is trying to do something about the killer," Trevor admits, "But that's not who we're talking about. And the police are useless."
"A symptom of a failed security net" D-Man adds, "Mi amigos, you have no idea, but then, it's a good thing most don't or they'd brick their pants so heavy that some fascist A holes would use it as a chance to strip away what few rights they have. Look, you seem cool but if you go in with us, it's all in, and a lot of it, yeah, blind faith maybe required. And we need a more private place to meet."
Natalie arches a brow, "Where?"
TC puts a hand on Natalie's arm "How about tomorrow night? You guys sort stuff out, Then if you want to bail out of Phoenix don't show. Otherwise, show up at this adress." She hands her a card, "After your last show that's scheduled. We'll bring you in."
"It's #@$#ing war," D-man says "Blood will flow, it's a matter of if we got enough folks who care enough to stop it."
"We should go before we say anything else way sooner than we intended," Trevor rises.
And they walk out. Leaving you with a LOT of questions unanswered.
Kevin blinks "What the hell?" He asks you and Natalie.
Morgrym drives past looking for the fire escape and any cameras or a way to get to the roof from a close by building any entrance that isn't the front door so he can sneak in.
You roll by slow, looking for ways in. The motel doesn't have many OTHER buildlings close to it, at least not close enough to use to get access but it does have a fire escape partly lowered on the side away from any ground floor doors. And you might be able to clamber onto the dumpster and get up there if you wanted though a mistep could lead to a smelly if likely safe fall.
"Thanks, just be careful." Mei looks at you, "Godzilla was referenced? So you think it was a clue to go to this movie drive in tonight. Well, you know, it's strange, but maybe in this case it is interconnected. Even if it's not, then maybe we can get a clue on who is behind your break and entering. The police are too busy for that sort of thing right now. Sure ,I'll go with you tonight. You might need back up."
Lawrence, embarrassed, squawks out a quick "Th-thanks. I'll bring s-nacks."
Lawrence intended to bring more than just snacks, he'd be bringing his shotgun and a pair of binoculars.Lawrence texts Sam: TXT: Taking Mei to movies. You want to come?
He'll continues to work until quitting time, then head home to pack his gear.
Michael watches the trio leave with a confused expression.
"...yeah, I don't know either." He shakes his head. "I mean, yeah, fight the power, f&~* the cops and all that--but war?"
"The f$*% are they even going on about?"
Lawrence, embarrassed, squawks out a quick "Th-thanks. I'll bring s-nacks."
Lawrence intended to bring more than just snacks, he'd be bringing his shotgun and a pair of binoculars.
Lawrence texts Sam: TXT: Taking Mei to movies. You want to come?
He'll continues to work until quitting time, then head home to pack his gear.
Mei nods and waves. She's got work to do as well.
Your sister take a while to text, but when she does TXT: 'You have a date? That's wonderful. No no, three sounds like a crowd. Have fun.'
Well, that happened. Your sister thinks you're on a date. While the world is threatening to end , or something anyway. Even after a break in. Meanwhile, the place you work is trying to turn bloodletting into a partisan subject.
And folks think YOU are crazy.
You head home after it all, and get what you need for your.. uhm date. Not just snacks. Your sister isn't home, maybe she's still at the hospital? Doctor stuff.
It's a drive in theatre and you invited Mei oh you better go pick her up. This is like a date. SHe probably expects you both to share a car? Ack
And yup, there's a text from Mei TXT: _Ready when you are, partner' oh she used a GPS so you can track her. Doesn't she know the THEMS love when people do that?
Michael watches the trio leave with a confused expression.
"...yeah, I don't know either." He shakes his head. "I mean, yeah, fight the power, f&@* the cops and all that--but war?"
"The f$!# are they even going on about?"
"I guess we'll find out when we visit them tomorrow Night" Natalie says, "I don't know about you guys, but i'm going."
Kevin looks less certain and blinks "Natalie, I know T.C is HOT but... uhm limits?"
"Hey, this is not alturism. Did you hear the part where they're talking like we could buy a club like this?" Natalie counters "It's not selling out if you promote your own stuff"
"...okay, I guess I didn't think about it that way." Michael admits. He knew better than to argue with Natalie when it came to the Chain-Breakers' finances.
"But going all-in on this?" He looks between Kevin and Natalie, his worry showing clearly. "If it were just me, I wouldn't think twice about it... it's not like I have much of a future anyway."
"But you guys--" He starts before the words catch in his throat. He takes a gasp, trying to get himself together.
The anxiety coiling in his gut floods into his chest, then his throat. "--I don't know what I'd do without you two. I don't want either of you getting in trouble because of something stupid I did."
Mei nods and waves. She's got work to do as well.
Your sister take a while to text, but when she does TXT: 'You have a date? That's wonderful. No no, three sounds like a crowd. Have fun.'
Well, that happened. Your sister thinks you're on a date. While the world is threatening to end , or something anyway. Even after a break in. Meanwhile, the place you work is trying to turn bloodletting into a partisan subject.
And folks think YOU are crazy.
You head home after it all, and get what you need for your.. uhm date. Not just snacks. Your sister isn't home, maybe she's still at the hospital? Doctor stuff.
It's a drive in theatre and you invited Mei oh you better go pick her up. This is like a date. SHe probably expects you both to share a car? Ack
And yup, there's a text from Mei TXT: _Ready when you are, partner' oh she used a GPS so you can track her. Doesn't she know the THEMS love when people do that?
Lawrence would have corrected his sister but the situation was mentally taxing enough. Maybe I should have been more specific in the text. And he didn't mind that she thought that.
After putting his shotgun and a case of shells in his rear seat, he covers it with a blanket. He grabs his 'nocs, some chips and dip from the cupboard and a couple of sodas from the fridge.He drove a non-descript tan sedan with tinted windows and a sunroof, the most invisible kind of car he could think to buy. It wasn't excessively dirty, but he never expected to have to host a guest in it, so there were empty cans of soda in the passenger seat and a fast food wrapper here or there.
Lawrence went to Mei's to pick her up, hastily throwing some empty soda cans into the rear seat to make room. Having looked up directions with his VPN secured computer whenever necessary, he felt confident in his decision to rip out the onboard GPS.
"...okay, I guess I didn't think about it that way." Michael admits. He knew better than to argue with Natalie when it came to the Chain-Breakers' finances.
"But going all-in on this?" He looks between Kevin and Natalie, his worry showing clearly. "If it were just me, I wouldn't think twice about it... it's not like I have much of a future anyway."
"But you guys--" He starts before the words catch in his throat. He takes a gasp, trying to get himself together.
[dice=Self-Control]5d10
The anxiety coiling in his gut floods into his chest, then his throat. "--I don't know what I'd do without you two. I don't want either of you getting in trouble because of something stupid I did."
Suddenly you are caught in a two sided hug, "Hey hey, how come this can't be me pulling you guys along?" Natalie says gently "Bones, Baby we care about you, but you're not making either of us do anything."
Kevn gives you a squeeze from the other side, "She's right. Go or don't because YOU want to. And heck, I may stay while you two go. See? Would that be your fault. no. We each got our own mind but that doesn't mean we don't got each others backs, come what may."
"See, we're both prissy b#tches who think it's all about US, not you," Natalie jokes even as she pats you, "Whatever you decide for yourself, we love you."
Lawrence would have corrected his sister but the situation was mentally taxing enough. Maybe I should have been more specific in the text. And he didn't mind that she thought that.
Lawrence puts his shotgun and a case of shells in his rear seat, then covers it with a blanket. He grabs his 'nocs, some chips and dip from the cupboard and a couple of sodas from the fridge.Lawrence drove a non-descript tan sedan with tinted windows and a sunroof, the most invisible kind of car he could think to buy. It wasn't excessively dirty, but he never expected to have to host a guest in it, so there were empty cans of soda in the passenger seat and a fast food wrapper here or there.
Lawrence went to Mei's to pick her up, hastily throwing some empty soda cans into the rear seat to make room. Having looked up directions with his VPN secured computer whenever necessary, he felt confident in his decision to rip out the onboard GPS.
Mei waits for you by the side of the road. Bluejeans for mobility, and a nice but simple sanguine blouse. She gets into the now clear passenger seat and looks about "Thanks for the lift. Saves gas if we go together'
You drive while you talk, or while she talks, speaking of how the police are getting so really panicky about finding a suspect "I know it's cynical but i think if they knew it would stop, they'd just pick a guy with a criminal record and say 'this is him'" [/B] A frown "I've been looking into it. They seem a bit disorganized."
You pull up into the drive in theatre, and Mei pays for the admission. And get an out of date speaker attached to your hood. It's not very crowded, only a few cars or trucks.
There's a tap on your window, and you see a woman there. She's a redhead with glasses , wearing a yellow shirt. No,she's a goth girl, sleek with dark shadow make up around the eyes, wait, no, she's dressed like some bimbo, meant to entice... wait she's all three at once, that's not ...finally she settles into a kind of blend. Glasses and red hair, blue top but not as revealing, gothic touches.
"...okay, I guess I didn't think about it that way." Michael admits. He knew better than to argue with Natalie when it came to the Chain-Breakers' finances.
"But going all-in on this?" He looks between Kevin and Natalie, his worry showing clearly. "If it were just me, I wouldn't think twice about it... it's not like I have much of a future anyway."
"But you guys--" He starts before the words catch in his throat. He takes a gasp, trying to get himself together.
[dice=Self-Control]5d10
The anxiety coiling in his gut floods into his chest, then his throat. "--I don't know what I'd do without you two. I don't want either of you getting in trouble because of something stupid I did."
Suddenly you are caught in a two sided hug, "Hey hey, how come this can't be me pulling you guys along?" Natalie says gently "Bones, Baby we care about you, but you're not making either of us do anything."
Kevn gives you a squeeze from the other side, "She's right. Go or don't because YOU want to. And heck, I may stay while you two go. See? Would that be your fault. no. We each got our own mind but that doesn't mean we don't got each others backs, come what may."
"See, we're both prissy b#tches who think it's all about US, not you," Natalie jokes even as she pats you, "Whatever you decide for yourself, we love you."
Overcome with the warmth of his bandmates hugging him, Michael pulls Kevin into a kiss first, followed by Natalie.
"...I know."
So why can't I shake this feeling of f$~%ing dread?
His eyes turn hungry and anxious. "Hey... uh, you two want to head back to the hotel with me?"
One in bed, the other in the shower. You can decide among yourselves who does which, but by God I need you both.
Mei waits for you by the side of the road. Bluejeans for mobility, and a nice but simple sanguine blouse. She gets into the now clear passenger seat and looks about "Thanks for the lift. Saves gas if we go together'
You drive while you talk, or while she talks, speaking of how the police are getting so really panicky about finding a suspect "I know it's cynical but i think if they knew it would stop, they'd just pick a guy with a criminal record and say 'this is him'" A frown "I've been looking into it. They seem a bit disorganized."
You pull up into the drive in theatre, and Mei pays for the admission. And get an out of date speaker attached to your hood. It's not very crowded, only a few cars or trucks.
There's a tap on your window, and you see a woman there. She's a redhead with glasses , wearing a yellow shirt. No,she's a goth girl, sleek with dark shadow make up around the eyes, wait, no, she's dressed like some bimbo, meant to entice... wait she's...
Lawrence is wearing his work clothes still, a muted green long sleeved shirt, cuffs flipped up, with a breast pocket that holds his cigs and black pants that rest somewhere between skinny jeans and slacks. His grey beanie covers his black mop of hair that, in addition to his slightly redder skin tone, betrays his Navajo mother's genes.
Lawrence appraises the woman, confused, searching, shoots a glance to Mei, then to the rear view mirror and the blanket under which his gun rests uneasily.
"Who A-are you and wwhat d-do you want?" he questions in a stern but cautious tone.
Overcome with the warmth of his bandmates hugging him, Michael pulls Kevin into a kiss first, followed by Natalie.
"...I know."
So why can't I shake this feeling of f%%*ing dread?
His eyes turn hungry and anxious. "Hey... uh, you two want to head back to the hotel with me?"
One in bed, the other in the shower. You can decide among yourselves who does which, but by God I need you both.
They return the kisses with heat and warmth alike.
"Baby, you know I do. With you, anytime, any place," Natlie strokes your cheek.
Kevin nods "I figured that's why we got that king bed." then more seriously, "We need you too. Maybe we don't say it enough."
And to the hotel you three go, to savor ,and delight in each other. Tomorrow night is just that. For the now, you are three who are one.
Lawrence is wearing his work clothes still, a muted green long sleeved shirt, cuffs flipped up, with a breast pocket that holds his cigs and black pants that rest somewhere between skinny jeans and slacks. His grey beanie covers his black mop of hair that, in addition to his slightly redder skin tone, betrays his Navajo mother's genes.
Lawrence appraises the woman, confused, searching, shoots a glance to Mei, then to the rear view mirror and the blanket under which his gun rests uneasily.
"Who A-are you and wwhat d-do you want?" he questions in a stern but cautious tone.
"You got my note," She gushes, "Did you pick team godzilla?" A glance over at Mei, "You didn't bring who I expected. She seems nice though, i wonder if she'll join team godzilla too. oh, I'm called Writhe, actually once I was called pet, but that was before. Before that I was a raven and a writing desk with flowers on top. But call me writhe. You're so close, Lawrence... there's a battle of the monsters coming. And you knew before most... would you like to know more? See more? you're so close."
"Lawrence, who are you talking to?" Mei looks over
"You got my note," She gushes, "Did you pick team godzilla?" A glance over at Mei, "You didn't bring who I expected. She seems nice though, i wonder if she'll join team godzilla too. oh, I'm called Writhe, actually once I was called pet, but that was before. Before that I was a raven and a writing desk with flowers on top. But call me writhe. You're so close, Lawrence... there's a battle of the monsters coming. And you knew before most... would you like to know more? See more? you're so close."
"Lawrence, who are you talking to?" Mei looks over
"Mei, this, 'Wr-rithe', she's c-claiming to be the w-one who broke in. H-her comments seem to conf-firm anyway." He turned back to Writhe. His eyes go wide and begin to twitch. Composure in this situation was impossible to hold. Her voice. "You. It was y-you. In m-my head. Whispering Wasn't it?!" A beat. A heavy breath. He can't hold it in. "E-everything. Tell me e-every-thing. Show. Me. E-very-thing. Shed your skin lizard!" Lawrence starts calm but a violent hunger for knowledge and vindication overtakes him. He throws his hand back into the rear seat and grabs the butt of the shotgun, whipping it around to point the barrel at the open window. This throws the blanket off of the gun and sends empty cans clattering around the back seat.
Appearance
Dylan winks at gives her a grin as he stands up and holds out his hand to her.
Morgrym parks the car and moves out now with a quickness to the fire escape moving the dumpster and climbing up.
Morgrym will get to the roof and set up the grapple and repellent rope for the quick get away and then work the roof door to make his way in ensuring there isnt an alarm.
can't get the door open so crowbar might have to do...
"Mei, this, 'Wr-rithe', she's c-claiming to be the w-one who broke in. H-her comments seem to conf-firm anyway." He turned back to Writhe. His eyes go wide and begin to twitch. Composure in this situation was impossible to hold. Her voice. "You. It was y-you. In m-my head. Whispering Wasn't it?!" A beat. A heavy breath. He can't hold it in. "E-everything. Tell me e-every-thing. Show. Me. E-very-thing. Shed your skin lizard!" Lawrence starts calm but a violent hunger for knowledge and vindication overtakes him. He throws his hand back into the rear seat and grabs the butt of the shotgun, whipping it around to point the barrel at the open window. This throws the blanket off of the gun and sends empty cans clattering around the back seat.
You whip your gun out (and on your first date too) and Mei freaks out, "Lawrence, no one is there! Lawrence, you need to stop," She puts a hand on your shoulder, "We'll call your sister, get you help. Okay?"
Writhe sticks her fingers in the barrel but then says "I will. But not out here. Should we come into the van?"
You could fire, but Writhe is right, even here there are other cars. Other people.
And Mei doesn't see. Why doesn't anyone else ever SEE?
Appearance 3d10
Dylan winks at gives her a grin as he stands up and holds out his hand to her.
"Oh, what the hell," Priscilla takes your hand and comes out of her seat, her concerns about missing class melting into a happy smile.
Lunch proves a great time to talk to Priscilla and get to know her even as she gets to know you. Yes, she's as seemingly wholesome as she appears in upbringing, and has lead a pretty vanilla life. She does have a morbid fascination with other belief systems at the occult that she doesn't exactly advertise to her family, but the fascination is taken studiously, not in some 'what's trendy' way, at least she hopes not. She's in Phoenix alone, but visits her family now and then. They live in Eastern California.
Lunch is good, the conversation is better, and you realize that she knows a lot more than you about a lot of subject matter but doesn't lord it over you and enjoys discussing such. She also admits to being terrible with cars when you bring that up, and admits she wishes she weren't so bad with them, "Something rattles and I have NO idea..." she says. This allows you to talk about what you love about fixing and repairing cars, and your favorite makes and models. And.. she listens.
Not a bad 'unofficial' date.
But she looks at the time, "I have to go. I missed one class, I can't miss the next uhm..." then a smile and she offers you her contact info if you don't already have it.
Morgrym parks the car and moves out now with a quickness to the fire escape moving the dumpster and climbing up.
[Dice=dex+athletics]7d10
Morgrym will get to the roof and set up the grapple and repellent rope for the quick get away and then work the roof door to make his way in ensuring there isnt an alarm.
[Dice=perc+larc]5d10
[Dice=dex+larc]6d10 can't get the door open so crowbar might have to do...
You avoid the area with the alarm and.. it takes a crowbar but you slip on in into the interior hallways of the motel. You make your way to the other side of the motel where you suspect the room with the lady might be.
But you still have to narrow it down between three likely room options. You could just knock, burst into one. Or try to pick and sneak.
But which room? The three most likely are 103 (Ground floor), 104 (Ground floor), or room 203 above