Fantasy Code FERAL

[Flutterby]

Beth started back in on her dinner sadly, as her mind swam with thoughts about Gigi and her companion. A sigh from Manjano caught her attention, and when she looked up, he was offering her the last roll. She smiled, albeit a little smaller than before, and took it gently. So, he could be sweet. Going to bed really did sound good though, so she finished her dinner. Steak, noodles, shrimp, broccoli, each dish finished completely before the next one was started. As the staff began clearing, all she had left was the gifted roll. She smiled down at it, finishing it off more quickly than the others. Stomach full, and feeling warm and sleepy, as the others began heading to bed, Beth looked over at Manjano.


He was already looking at her, with a silent question that could be anything, but she somehow knew. "Im pretty tired, food and concussion and all. Wanna walk me up?" She stood, not really waiting for his silent answer, as she had a feeling it was yes. Totus, still stubbornly silent, flew ahead of her and upstairs, in their room and perching near the window for the night before she was even out of the dining room.


"Goodnight, Gigi. See you in the morning. You know where we are if you need us. Goodnight, Falarion sweetie." Beth said softly, smiling warmly at the pair as she passed. It really was time for bed, she realized, when she looked at the stairs and almost groaned. It was a beautiful staircase, she just didnt want to climb it. With a dramatic sigh, she started up them, her feet weighing a ton each.


@Lioness075 @SilverFlight

 

[Lioness075]

The second Beth asked if he wanted to walk her upstairs to her room, she was already standing up and moving away, as if assuming that he would follow along anyways.


Amused by this, Manjano decided to play along, as if he didn't already want to do so anyways, and stood up before following after Beth.


As he walked past Falarion, Manjano briefly thought to him, Hey, mate. Just come up whenever you're ready. There's no rush and I'll figure out which room we're in.


Falarion looked sharply over at Manjano and gave him a short and happy bark before wagging his tail a bit and then shifted his goofy grin to Beth when she said good night to him.


@Flutterby


Smirking at Beth's expression upon looking at the stairs, Manjano easily stayed by her side, as she practically dragged her feet up the steps.


Raising an eyebrow at her dramatic sigh, Manjano then mockingly skipped several steps so he was already abut halfway up before stopping and turning around to look at Beth.


Raising an eyebrow while smirking at her, Manjano then teasingly let out a small yawn while stretching out his arms at either side, emphasizing how long it was taking Beth to get up the stairs and the fact that Manjano was already halfway there.


@Flutterby

 

[Sleipnir]

Bael nodded a bit sadly when Zoe mentioned the scars, but didn't dwell on it when she moved on to mention dinner. "Oh, let's eat," he insisted. "I'm starving." He headed to the dining room, and noticed when everyone was there except for Wednesday, but he didn't say anything about it despite his slight disappointment. He had found he'd enjoyed speaking to her over the last couple days, especially regarding their taste in music. He listened as the others spoke, eating his own food gratefully -- he had learned never to take a good meal for granted after having hiked with plenty of days of ready made meals under his belt -- and didn't do much talking because he was so into the food. He was also thinking a good deal about other issues, and found he was missing his sister horribly. But he tried to push that out of the way. After all, he had a job to do, and he couldn't let Annabell stop him from doing it.


He only barely registered the conversation when Gigi mentioned viewing the group as her friends. He smiled a bit and couldn't help but chip in, "I'll tell you honestly, Gigi, I like you a whole lot better than I thought I would. I actually expected you to be stuck-up and vain. Needless to say, that's not true at all, and I'm glad for it."


@DawnAntalios @SilverFlight


Cedar looked up when Cerci mentioned the smell. "Of course I smell that! I'm a bear -- bears smell everything! Let's go eat!" He loped away after her, and when they got to the dinner, he found a spot next to Bael. He nodded along when he mentioned his opinion on Gigi.


@Hel

 

[Hel]

Wednesday received no response from inside of Bael's room and glanced around, checking that no one else had seen her before she pushed the door open and headed inside. She saw his teapot and a pair of open letters, one seemed to be a letter he had received, the other was fresh and unfolded. Wednesday moved over and read the folded parchment first. It was a letter from Bael's sister, it seemed.


Wednesday smiled to herself as she read it, Annabelle seemed cute, she'd love to meet the girl. There was one thing that Wednesday took note of in the note: Julius. Was that his middle name? She made a mental not to remember that and looked over to Bael's response.

'My favorite sister --


I was worried about it getting damaged in transit! Thanks for sending it. You're of course right on account of me missing home. And yes-- you did save me some trouble. Chances are I was going to go do exactly like you said tomorrow morning and then complain about how my tea doesn't taste as good as it does with Tu.


Would you believe who I'm with? Some others and I are staying with that poodle singer Gigi. I know you aren't thrilled about pop music and all, you like Relient K (Or is it just Matt?) better. But you'd be surprised how wonderful she is, Annie. Reminds me of your friend Alex -- what do you call her? Spoiled sweet? That's the phrase.


This whole city could be beautiful if only they would take good care of it. Everything's so old -- I wish they'd just treat it like it is. It's just like the lighthouse tours -- "The light is your elder, so treat it that way." They don't here.


Negativity aside, I've seen some pretty neat stuff. I'm afraid that whatever I get you won't arrive in time for your birthday. But I'll definitely find you something. There are an awful lot of choices here!


Love you,


Bael


P.S. -- You let me know the instant you can who it is you've bonded with. You know I'll want to know!'

As she read, Wednesday smiled to herself, agreeing with many of his sentiments. She felt as though she was getting to know Bael. To her this was just as good as conversing with him herself. When she finished she glanced around his room but decided that her snooping should probably be over now. It was a shame.


Either way, she set the paper back down, careful not to make it obvious that someone had been there, afterwards she simply headed back to her room to sleep- she should probably keep from butting her nose into everyone's business.


@Sleipnir (Sort of)


Cerci nodded at Cedar, smiling until they entered the dinner room in time to hear what transpired between Gigi and her owner. Cerci felt her own heart get a little heavy as she felt for Gigi. She really didn't know how to respond, though, so an empathetic gaze would have to suffice. Hopefully Gigi would understand everything that she wanted to say and had no words for.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Eos laughed warmly, seeing how both Alec and Xiao got flustered by his words. He had seen such blossoming friendships in the past and he could determine what was going on between the two of them by just the look of their eyes. It was kind of entertaining to watch them and he saw Alec quickly departing, trying to help the others and he turned to Xiao with a sheepish smile.


" I have seen those look in your eyes elsewhere, many times before. " he whispered " Your heart shall open up new gates towards new roads, your destiny will lead elsewhere. You shall feel different and you will be different - for your destiny will lead you on a path of many tears and many joy. "


He raised as he finished the meal, looking happily as others comforted Gigi and he nodded, meaning that she will have his help in anything she wanted. Also being friends with her made specific animals happy - like Duik for example. He turned to Xiao and bowed his head.


" My lady, I hope you will have pleasant night. I shall take my leave to rejuvenate my body and spirit. "


He turned away and walked, just as Bael and Zoe arrived.


@SilverFlight @crucialstar


Zoe watched silently as Bael rushed to eat. She said nothing, her words being ignored by the boy - a faint smile appearing on her expression. Of course, it was nothing. She was once again a bit audacious, why would she think that he would be interested in joining her anyway? They were allies, friends no less - that was more she could have bargained for, she was glad that they were not on bad terms... but judging by the boy's reaction it was just that, nothing more.


Without a word she walked up to the table and she sat down, beginning to feast. She was not particularly hungry nor did she crave much food but her body needed strength so she had to eat at least a few bits and pieces.


After a short while, right when Gigi wished them good night she stood up. Half of her plate was still there but the food... it just turned into ash in her mouth. She was not hungry, she just wished... peace to think over everything that has happened.


" I wish all of you a good night. " she said, not loud nor to particularly anyone. With that she headed upstairs - but not to her room, instead she searched for a balcony and she sat down outside.


The cold wind of the night was but a gentle breeze as she looked up at the starry sky. She watched as the uncountable streams of light lit the dark horizon, life still going on in the darkness of the dusk. The moon shone brighter than ever before and its caressing, calm light illuminated the stoic face of the girl, who now just sat there, alone, pondering on the events of the past day.


" Strange is the twist of fate for weaving life in such a convoluted way. " she murmured " My dearest sibling, what would you do now? How would you continue this perilous journey? " she asked, looking up at the sky, not waiting for any answer - but she wanted to observe the endless universe as others fell into deep slumber.


@Sleipnir @anyonewhoisuptostargazinginsteadofsleepingiguess

 

[zCrookedz]

Jimbo watched as the group comforted Gigi and returned to their meals. The others seemed to be helping her the best they could, but the poodle still seemed pretty sad about the situation. Jimbo looked back across the table finding more fruit and continued to eat while the others talked and finished their meals.


Finally Jimbo sat back after finishing off more fruit than any creature should, and looked back to Simon. Jimbo's face turned into one of amusement and exhaustion. Simon hadn't made it through much more of the meal after finishing the first burger. Now he was using his second as a pillow, squishing the burgers bun with his forehead and was beginning to snore. Jimbo pushed himself away from the table and stood next to Simon hunched figure. Slipping an arm under the big guys abdomen, Jimbo lifted Simon onto his shoulder before turning back to the table.


"I better get him to bed, hope everyone has a pleasant evening."


As Jimbo turned back towards the door, Simon made a loud snoring noise. His drunken way of telling everyone good night as Jimbo toted him back towards the stairs, the top of his bun still stuck to his forehead.


Once Jimbo had gotten them both back upstairs, Jimbo set Simon on the twin bed beside his and removed the bun from his forehead. He took Simon's shoes off his feet, knowing how much Simon hated sleeping in shoes, and pulled the covers over his huge frame. He ruffled the big guys hair a bit, just like Pop's used to do when they were young.


"Sleep tight brother."


Jimbo hopped into the bed beside Simon's and rummaged around in the bag setting on it. I pulled out a small picture frame containing a family picture, and set it on the nightstand. He reached back into the bag, fishing out his iPod and flipped through the screen a few times before the soft music-box melody like tune could be heard playing through the headphones.

 

[Flutterby]

Beth took the stairs one at a time, wishing once again she had wings like her Totus. Manjano paced her at first, but the skipped halfway up the staircase. He yawned and stretched, smirking at her. That look was becoming very familiar. She rolled her eyes and put a little more pep in her step to get up to him.


"Alright, smarty pants. My bad for being tired." Beth retorted as she reached him, taking the stairs at a more comfortable pace now. She reached the top, and turned down the hall. Her room was one of the first, which she was grateful for. She was usually an early riser and didnt want to go past everyones rooms on her way downstairs.


The door was open, and she could seen Totus looking out the window. "This is mine. Hopefully youre not too far away." Beth said softly, her smile softening. "Goodnight." As she spoke, she reached out and brushed her finger against his forearm again, only for a few seconds. "We should meet up for breakfast," She half-joked, as everyone would be meeting for breakfast. With a last smile, she turned and headed into the room, loking forward to a good night of sleep.


@Lioness075

 

[Lioness075]

Seeing Beth roll her eyes only further amused Manjano, as he continued to smirk at her.


Hearing Beth's remark, Manjano chuckled and then followed after her, remaining at her pace now.


Seeing Beth pause at her room, which was right near the front, Manjano then grew a bit awkward, as he had no idea if he was supposed to do or say something in this moment.


As Beth mentioned Manjano's room hopefully not being too far away, Manjano sheepishly glanced at the door across the hall, not wanting to openly tell Beth that his room was right across from hers. Not that he'd originally planned it that way! He just woke up early every morning to go for a walk before the others would probably be up. His sister was used to it, but he didn't want to disturb the others by leaving and then making some noise while walking down the hallway.


Feeling Beth's light tough on his forearm again, Manjano blushed faintly and met her gaze briefly before half smiling at her.


At the mention of meeting up for breakfast despite everyone eating together for it, Manjano rolled his eyes, though it was out of amusement and not irritation.


Watching Beth's retreating figure, Manjano then whispered, "G'night, Beth."


He then turned on his heels and went into his room, leaving the door ajar so Falarion could find his way to the right room and not wander in one someone else.


@Flutterby

 

[deer]

Xiao Hui turned to look at Gigi when she speak and smiled brightly, giving her a wink, "I do see you as more than just an idol, Gigi, and this includes everyone here. I find myself taking a liking to everyone, even those I have yet to talk to formally, but nevertheless, friends and companions would definitely suit rather than just partners and teammates." Her eyes beaming with joy as she couldn't help but smile even more when she voiced out her opinions as well. Xiao Hui wanted them to know they were just as important as Laohu was to her, especially since they've gone through a lot together in such a short amount of time. Plus, all of their company was certainly enjoyable to be surrounded by. Laohu grinned at his family member, as she heard the others input, mentally and physically supporting each other as the way it should. He couldn't believe in just a few days they were all getting along so well. He couldn't imagine that happening in a few years and he honestly believes, as time goes on, he would trust them even more so than he did now. However, secrets would have to remain as it is. . secrets since he feared for Xiao Hui if they were to ever found out her background. She didn't want to lie to them, but for their protection, she had to keep it a secret and let them think that she was "normal". Hearing Alec agreeing with her and seeing that Leandra and Falarion were able to comfort Gigi, she was relieved to know Gigi found some sort of comfort with them and her mood lightened up just a tad bit. Saying a soft goodbye to those who were leaving, she said, "Good night and sweet dreams." Soon, her attention reverted back to Alec as he addressed her, telling her she needed to eat as well. Nodding, Xiao Hui walked next to Alec, sitting besides him where the plate was as she sat there, munching on some vegetables here and there. "Thank you." Xiao Hui told Alec sincerely, happy to know not only did he dine with her for a little while, but he kept his promise. She hadn't mind that he served her food and for her some vegetables, it wasn't that she was used to being served, but she found it endearing since he did it on his own accord and not because it was his job. Humming softly to herself, Xiao Hui giggled hearing Duirk's remark as Laohu nodded in agreement. "Agreed, giggles." He said to Duirk, giving him the nickname the others had called him before. As Eos made his way over to her, whispering so only she could hear as Alec had ate and his attention was elsewhere. Xiao Hui flushed but nevertheless, the words that came out of Eos' mouth came out fluidly and wisely, as he spoke of new beginnings and opened hearts. She couldn't accept those words but at the same time she couldn't deny them. However, she felt bliss radiating from Eos as he spoke more as she felt some sort of peace just listening to him speak. "There wouldn't be an adventure if there wasn't any tears but joy after right? I can only hope through the fears and acceptable, we would be open to open up our hearts to everyone, not each other." She said softly, gazing around the room at her comrades. Xiao Hui couldn't imagine what their struggles were and their backstories, but it was all in due time. Laohu sat there quietly, just listening to their conversation as he grinned at Eos, though only hoped Xiao Hui wouldn't get hurt in the process.




Next thing she knew, Alec and Duirk had pointed out when was the last time they had slept and it was time for them to go. As they said their goodbyes to the others, Xiao Hui nodded over to Eos, "I'll see you in the morning. Take care and rest well." She couldn't help but watched as the majestic stag walked out of the room as Laohu followed suit with Eos and Duirk, saying their goodbyes. Getting up from the seat, Xiao Hui threw her trash away as Laohu told her he would see her upstairs since he was ready for his beauty sleep. Hearing Alec's voice in her ears, Xiao Hui turned around, smiling softly, "Of course, the pleasure was mine to dance with a professional such as yourself. Thank you for the dance lessons, Alec." She whispered softly, before shaking her head. "Well.. now, if you ever need a laugh, you can always come to me, then?" Xiao Hui said, not meaning for it to end as a question but it had been. She was just unsure of the the male before her and if he was okay or not, but, he did seem tired. "Should we head to bed now?" However hearing what she said, Xiao Hui believed her phrasing was a bit. . intimate or rather. . awkwardly but so she quickly said "Ah, I mean. . should you head to bed. . Yes, that's what I meant." Her face flushed, as she fumbled over her explanation. Scared she might have made a fool of herself, she nodded softly, whispering, "W-well, sweet dreams, Alec. May your dreams be filled with many happiness." Scolding herself lightly as she slowly walked away, she felt herself not being in control her expressions and words. This was all new to her, however, she didn't want Alec to think she disliked him or misunderstand her. Stopping in her steps, she turned around slowly, " Um. . will you walk with me?" She asked, feeling like a teenager all over again. Xiao Hui felt like she was standing there for eternity but it was probably only a few seconds that passed, as she gazed at Alec with a hopeful look. She just wanted to spend just a few more minutes with Alec before she headed to her room.

@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios
​

 

[SilverFlight]

((I am so, so sorry for the length...))


Alec and Gigi both said goodnight to Leandra and Jimbo as they along with the snoring Simon headed up to bed.


Gigi smiled at Falarion as she stepped back.


"Nono darling, you should get your rest. You shall need it tomorrow. I am not about to give up on zat rally. And as it iz your job to protect me, you will 'ave to come too." She gave a slight little nod, to say the point was final.


Bael's confession that he liked her more than he thought he would made Gigi blink.


"Why thank you Bael, I am glad I er, exceeded your expectations."


Alec grinned at him. "Ort-shay on the act-tay though."


@Sleipnir @Lioness075


Before he answered Xiao he made his way over to Calista, who had returned to her computer.


"The data file you gave me was good Alec. I'm trying to narrow the places down."


"Calista, I know you're having a hard time of it, but running yourself into the ground won't get Strong back." The civet's shoulders slumped.


"I know..."


"Get some rest." Calista looked at him sleepily. "Yeah...yeah, I should."


Once Calista had begun packing up Alec returned to Xiao. She had said if he ever needed a laugh...


"If I ever need to smile." He countered. "I'll definitely come to you."


Her slip up brought the colour back to his cheeks again. "Yeah! of course, that's what you meant...separate rooms and...yeah."


When she asked him to walk her he grinned. "Happy to, can't have you getting mugged going up the stairs now can we?"


He reached her side and walked with her. "Sorry. Sometimes I don't know when to just shut it."


He came to a stop just outside her door and opened it for her.


"Well, sweet dreams Xiao, I'll see you in the morning." He paused for a moment just there, seeming to contemplate something, but whatever it was, he decided against it and turned to go.


@crucialstar


His room was already dark when he came in. Duik had made himself comfortable on the large double bed against the far wall.


"Not sleeping in the one made for you huh?" Alec said as he pulled off his shirt.


"Its too hard...and you know I don't like sleeping along in a strange house..." His voice was sleepy, but carried a distinct pout in it as well. Alec smiled as he shook his head.


"Move over then." He scooted the hyena to one side as he climbed under the covers.


"Hey Alec?" Duik yawned.


"Yeah?"


"Can you sing me the song?" When Alec had stopped moving he wiggled closer and snuggled against him. Alec sighed and said in a patient voice:


"One verse." He didn't need to see the hyena to know he was smiling. Slowly and quietly Alec began.


"If you say goodbye to me tonight,


There will still be music left to write..."





It was the first song Duik had ever heard, and since that moment, music had become his life. Now he hummed the harmony to it as Alec sang.


"What more could I do?


I'm so inspired by you,


that hasn't happened for the looongest time."





By that point Alec could feel the hyena's breathing deepen and he settled back onto his pillow with a hand on Duik's shoulders.


"Night D."


~*~


Amber could think again. Her little act had paid off. They reduced the dose of the drug low enough that she was able to piece together the clues of her whereabouts. The water, the sound of traffic and in another room she had heard a small tv or radio where they were distinctly speaking french. They were also talking about the world cup.


So it was France, Paris to be exact. And if all the other evidence didn't confirm it then the unmistakable sound of the bells from Notre Dame Cathedral brought it all home. But how to get out of here? From the pain flaring in she shoulder every time she strained against the restraints she could tell her right arm would be useless in a fight.


Just then the door opened and Amber quickly let her head sink back onto her chest. She heard three beings enter, two on four legs, the other on two. Then she saw him...Boris. The turncoat agent.


"Wake her up." He growled to two-legs. Amber was surprised to see it was a human. She felt the familiar prick of a needle in her arm and the hazy swamp that had sat on her mind began to lift almost immediately. She raised her head to look at them. Boris was closest to her. The man, she guessed was a doctor had stepped back behind the third figure whom Amber recognized all too well. The Alpha of the wolf pack that had attacked them in Kootenay.


"I have a recruit about to go feral. We need this to be quick." He snarled, making now effort to hide his hatred for Amber.


"We need her." Boris snapped back. "For now." He turned to Amber again, his small eyes glinting. "Where is it?"


Amber blinked slowly. "You're going to have to be a little more specific."


"Hmm, drugs haven't dampened your smart mouth agent Strong. Always hated that about you...The Merlion. I know you've been tracking it."


Amber looked at him with a dawning realization.


"You don't know where he is." It was a statement. Boris realized he had given information away, but he didn't seem too upset. In her mind Amber cursed, it meant they had no intention of letting her out alive.


"Let's cut to the chase." Boris said and waved a paw. Two guards entered with an animal. A fox from what Amber could tell. He had been beaten and was bleeding badly. One of the guards loaded a gun and put it to the fox's head.


"Your rescue team...well, what's left of it." The bear said casually. "Now, the last place you tracked the merlion. I won't ask again."


Amber gritted her teeth. She looked at the fox, who met her eyes with a look of acceptance before he spoke. "You bastards killed my partner. I'll be going feral anyway, there's no way you're getting that info!"


Boris strode over to the broken creature and looked down at him. "Pity you can still talk now."


The fox glared up at him, a lop-sided grin on his muzzle. "Screw you."


"Last chance Strong."


Amber tried to control her anger. It boiled in her to the breaking point. The gunshot exploded in the silence and it was when Amber saw the fox's body slump to the floor that she turned her burning gaze onto the traitorous Boris.


"I swear, when I get through with you there won't be enough left to hang on a wall."


"Charming." The bear lumbered to the door. "You have 8 hours," he told the wolf. "If she hasn't given up the information by then she likely will not, then you may use her to help your recruit."


The wolf gave a sickening grin and fixed Amber with a cruel stare as he addressed the human doctor. "You better stay doc... torture works best if you have hands."


~*~


Sunlight filtered into the hallway as the quiet winter morning began. A solitary bird sounded outside the house, sitting in the bare trees of the garden.


All about the house drifted a quiet peace...when suddenly one of the doors burst open and Duik went racing out, followed swiftly by a flying pillow.


"How is Taylor Swift better than the Spice Girls Duik?!"


The hyena hit the floor and rolled about as he laughed to the sound of "Shake it off" pouring out of the room.


"Respect the masterpiece bro!"


"Respect another pillow!" Alec came out of the room as well, sporting a loose T shirt and a pair of boxers (depicting bears on unicycles) and holding the second pillow above his head. He nearly ran straight into one of the maids as she rushed upstairs holding a box. She squeaked at the sight of Alec holding the pillow and he immediately dropped it before his boxer shorts.


"Package for the agents." She said, holding out the box, which Alec managed to take with one hand. After she left Duik came over with a curious expression.


"Something from HQ?" he asked.


Alec slid open the lid and peered inside...and he blanched at what he saw.


"Duik, get Simon and Calista...get everyone and tell them to meet downstairs."


Alec chose a quiet side room with an elegant dining table, but mostly because it had a thick door. They needed to talk about this. It wasn't good.


@Hel @Sleipnir @zCrookedz @andujarprime @DawnAntalios @crucialstar @Flutterby @ManyFaces

 

[Lioness075]

Sheepishly grinning at Gigi's response, Falarion then said softly, "Okay, if that's what you want."


Perking up a bit and blushing slightly, Falarion then added, "G'night, Gigi."


Lightly bumping his muzzle against Gigi's shoulder once more, Falarion then turned away and trotted up the steps before seeing the first open door and smelling Manjano's scent just beyond it.


Entering the room, Falarion then slumped onto the bed made for him before sighing happily with his eyes closed.


Rolling his eyes at Falarion's antics, Manjano quickly shut the door before getting into his bed as well, too exhausted to try and talk verbally with Falarion even though he knew he needed to do it eventually.


G'night, mate.


G'night!


~~~~~~Morning~~~~~


Sitting on the same bench from the night before, Manjano downed the last of the coffee that he'd managed to get from a maid during the early hours.


Falarion lay at Manjano's feet, his tail wagging behind him, as he thought about Gigi.


Deciding this was the best time to talk to Falarion without anyone possibly overhearing them, Manjano suddenly sat up straight, causing Falarion to cautiously stand up.


"Hey, what's up?"


Sighing, Manjano anxiously rubbed at the back of his neck before saying in a soft and hurt tone, "I'm sorry I didn't speak to you sooner, mate."


Eyes bulging out of his head, Falarion's mouth hung agape in surprise, as he had no idea how to respond to Manjano, who patiently waited for Falarion to register what had just happened.


When his eyes began to glisten in the early morning sunlight, Falarion suddenly began excitedly barking and chasing his tail before sprinting circles around the bench that Manjano was sitting on.


"He spoke! He spoke! He spoke!"


Eyes wide and his heart pounding at the fact that this would certainly draw unwanted attention, Manjano then suddenly leapt forward and tackled Falarion to the ground while holding his muzzle shut.


Are you going to stop shouting and barking if I remove my hand?


"Mmhm, mmhm!"


Sighing, Manjano let go of Falarion's muzzle and slowly sat up before Falarion tackled Manjano onto his back and began licking him on the face so that he wasn't being loud anymore.


Laughing, Manjano shoved Falarion away before the two began wrestling about in the early morning dew.


After a few minutes passed and the two were panting, Manjano pushed himself back up onto his feet before thinking to Falarion while he picked up his empty mug and headed for the front door, I'm still not comfortable talking around everyone else, so please keep this between us, okay?


Nodding excitedly with a dorky grin on his face and his tongue sticking out, Falarion trotted after Manjano, his tail wagging at what appeared to be hyper-speed.


Meanwhile, Leandra and Luness both jolted awake upon hearing a door burst open in the hallway with Taylor Swift music blasting after.


Exchanging a confused look, the pair soon were both peering out from their slightly ajar door, Leandra grinning amusingly at Alec and Duik's antics while Luness merely groaned.


Closing the door, Leandra then said to Luness with a grin, "Hey, you should totally mimic Taylor's voice and then sing some songs to Alec throughout the day!"


Rolling her eyes at this, Luness flew to a bed post and perched there while Leandra began getting ready for the day.


"You can't be serious, Lea."


"Oh, I'm completely serious. Does she have any good relationship songs? I don't normally listen to her, but from what I've heard about her, she tends to prefer to sing break-up songs or hate songs for her exes."


Shaking her head at this, Luness then heard the shower water turn on and decided to simply preen her feathers while Leandra took a quick shower before deciding to head downstairs for breakfast with the others.


About ten minutes or so passed before Leandra exited the shower before she quickly changed into her clothes for the day, deciding to wear something more comfortable and easy to move around in if another fight broke out.


After changing into her brown combat boots, khaki pants, tank top with a phoenix on it and leather jacket, Leandra then quickly calmed her mane-like hair before putting it up into a ponytail.


Grinning at Luness, who had been patiently waiting the whole time, LEandra then put on her backpack before Luness flew to her shoulder and the pair exited their room, heading for the stairs.

 

[Flutterby]

Beth smiled as she heard Manjano's whisper, and shut the door quietly and began readying herself for bed. From the window, Totus spoke. His voice was thick with emotion, sorrow and regret.


"Im sorry. You deserve to be with other people. Once again, I have been selfish." He didnt turn to look at her, and didnt say anything more once he had said those three simple statements.


"Its alright Totus. I understand. Sleep well." Beth said tiredly as she climbed into the bed. She was too tired to push the owl, not that there was anything to push for anyway. That was as good as it was going to get. He never could stay angry with her for long, but he wasnt big on apologies.


Before the sun rose, Beth and Totus were awake. She dressed in her usual comfy jeans and a chunky sweater. The coral color wasnt in her normal range, but she was feeling daring. The pair ventured out into the garden in the half-light, seeing and hearing no one yet. They went deeper than she had the night before. Totus flew high above her, and she stood below watching, both enjoying the early morning and the sunrise in their own way. Their quiet time together was vital, even though it didnt look like they were even together right then.


After what could have been a few minutes or a few hours, Beth and Totus heard familiar voices behind them. Manjano and Falarion were up and about. Beth gave herself a shake, and looked more closely at the sky. It was time for the world to start, she realized. Totus flew down and settled on her shoulder, and she hurried back to the house.


"Morning, strangers," Beth called at Manjano and Flarion's backs, as they reached the front door. She was wearing a mildly goofy smile, the early day infusing her with energy.


"Manjano, Falarion," Totus greeted them each with a nod, the yang to her yin. "Its nice to see we aren't the only early-risers."


"Probably about time for breakfast, huh?" Beth added, as they reached the doorway.


@Lioness075


As she stepped inside, she caught sight of Alec hurrying downstairs, entering an unfamiliar room with a very, very worried look on his face. Beth grimaced and headed after him. She rounded the corner and stood in the doorway of the dining room, looking at him curiously.


"Is everything alright, Alec?" Totus inquired, peering at him from Beth's shoulder.


@SilverFlight

 

[DawnAntalios]

Zoe sighed, taking a deep breath as she entered a meditative state on the balcony. She wanted to lay back and reflect on everything and for that she needed complete concentration and peace. She was just about to reach the apex of serenity when she heard steps behind her, approaching slowly. She needed not to turn her head to know who was approaching and with but a silent whisper she spoke up.


" Shouldn't you be sleeping, Eos? It is very late, you need to conserve your strength. "


" I could ask the same from you. " the old stag replied, looking at her wound " You are the one who is injured, after all. "


" I shall reach equilibrium in this place, worry not. " she said confidently " I will not go to bed - comfort breeds weakness and after what I have seen in the last days weakness is something I can not afford. "


Eos shook his head.


" You take training too seriously. You are too hard on yourself. "


Zoe sighed.


" It is the path I have chosen to take, something I must tread upon. There is no other way, I know none. "


" But perhaps others can. " the old one murmured " Why don't you ask that boy? He is very... fond of you. "


" Bael? " Zoe asked, her eyes popping open after uttering the name. She once again gazed at the crescent moon before she bowed her head " I think he likes me as an ally, nothing more. Every time we are together... " she shrugged " I am not good at this you know. I never was, I was always alone ever since my youth - Natalie was the only one watching over me as a motherly figure but that is that. "


She whispered her next words, those barely being audible.


" Sometimes I wish I had a different life though... "


The old stag said nothing but sat down next to her, his furry enveloping the girl, providing her a soft, warm resting place. Eos closed his ebony eyes and laid his head on the floor - which was not as cold as he anticipated it to be. Zoe smiled then closing her eyes she finally entered the meditative state she wanted to - and soon she was traveling in the endless abyss, seeking refuge and peace.


The first rays of the crimson sun painted the dark horizon in a warm light as the moon and her sisters retreated from the purple sky back into the void to slumber and to give was for their big sibling to shine and bathe the land with his great power and warmth. The moment when the golden disc appeared on the horizon Zoe opened her eyes, watching as the world slowly woke from its stupor. She too did fall asleep in the end and she was glad that Eos decided to join her - the old stag's fur kept her warm during the probably very chilly night. She basked in the glory of the sun, she smiled as she watched it slowly climbing in the distance, it felt her heart with warmth and joy.


" The dawn has arrived. " she whispered and saw Eos finally waking up as well. Rustling his fur she stood up and stretched her legs and arms and decided to head downstairs before the others woke up.


Utter silence welcomed the girl as she walked silently, carefully paying attention not to wake up her comrades in their sleep. She headed into the kitchen, making herself a warm coffee to help her wake up and after she drank it she headed back to the main hall, warming up for the day. She knew that the bandage should have been changed a long time ago but she only felt flickers of pain now so she did not care about it too much. As she practiced her fighting style she watched Alec hurrying downstairs. With a faint smile she waved at him.


" Hey there, sleepyhead! " she grinned " How was the... " she silenced immediately as he rushed past her, heading into a room previously not visited by her. She recognized the signs of horror and dismay on the face of Alec and she stopped in her activities, watching as he vanished in that room. Shortly afterwards Beth and Totus followed him, Zoe glancing at them, realizing that they were worried as well.


Deciding to follow them she walked into the room, standing next to the strange company. Tension and dread permeated the air, the silence was perpetual and suffocating at the same time. She felt her heartbeat rising as she stood there in silence. Finally, after Beth spoke up, she looked at Alec.


" It is not like you to be this concerned... " she mused " Gigi is fine and we live as well... but that means... "


Her eyes narrowed as the realization dawned on her. There was only one more thing that could possibly cause Alec this much headache.


" News about her? " she asked finally with a firm, serious voice.


@Flutterby @SilverFlight

 

[zCrookedz]

Jimbo stirred under the covers of his bed, his giant furry hand flopping to the side. As it it the bed, it brushed the iPod that had been plugged into his ears during the night. While one of the ear pieces had fallen out, the other was still lodged in Jimbo's head and the sudden burst of noise that erupted from the devices made his eyes fly open. He scrambled through the pillows to find the iPod and finally just decided to rip the other ear bud out. He sighed as he rubbed his eyes and picked the iPod up from under a pillow. He silenced the music and lifted himself up onto his forearms. He looked over to where he had left Simon the night before, and was not surprised to see the bed was empty. Jimbo then settled into thinking mode as he threw the covers off of him and climbed out of bed.


At the sound of a ruckus coming out of the hall way, Jimbo opened the door to see Duik's figure flash by with Alec following closely behind. He smiled at the pair and looked into the hallway as he saw Alec opening the box one of the maids had. Alecs expression did not look good, and when he heard him speak to Duik Jimbo left the room and headed for the stairs. If it was the day of the week he thought it was, he was pretty sure he knew where Simon would be.


Finding a back door to perfectly tailored backyard, Jimbo looked out the window and could see a figure moving up and down from one of the low hanging tree branches. He pushed the door open and headed down into the yard. The backyard was just as immaculate as the rest of the house. A pool fit for a queen, marble statues, and perfectly trimmed hedges. Finally he approached the tree to find Simon, dressed in nothing but a pair of workout pants, holding onto one of the branches with his right arm and slowly pulling himself up.


"How is it you can drink like a sailor, then wake up the next morning and work out like this. Normal people would wallow in bed with a hangover...............Simon....................SIMON?!"


As Jimbo spoke, he realised that Simon couldn't hear him and understood how he was dealing with the symptoms of his hangover. Sunglasses on, no doubt his eyes were closed, and something stuffed into each of his ears to cancel out noise. Jimbo sighed as he walked over to Simon. He lifted his arm as he approached the mans legs, and swung his fist at the guys mid-outer thigh, careful not to hit the leg he had just gotten healed. Simon yelped, as he lost his grip on the tree and came crashing down on the lawn. He rubbed the charley horse a bit as he pulled the sunglasses off and the ear plugs. HE looked exhausted, not from the work out, but from the effects of the alcohol the night before.


"Damn it Jimbo, that hurt. Why the heck did you do that?"


Jimbo gave him a serious look. "That was for last night. You remember our deal, one punch the morning after for every bottle. Lucky I couldn't reach your head."


Simon rubbed his eyes as he re applied the shades and stood back up.


"Yea I deserved that. Just let me finish off this set and I will be good for a spar."


As Simon reached for the limb Jimbo grabbed his free hand. "Later Simon, Alec got something this morning, he needs us inside."


Simon blinked a few times behind his glasses and nodded to the ape. He collected the towel he had brought from the bathroom and threw it over his shoulders as he followed Jimbo back to the house.


Once they were both back inside, the found Alec and a few of the others sitting already at a very nice looking table. Simon rubbed the back of his head as they approached the table, a little nervous about their reception of him after his behavior last night. As he spoke, his eyes drifted behind the sunglasses he was still wearing, to the box on the table.


"Morn'n everyone. Hope everyone slept well. So whats in the box?"


@SilverFlight @Flutterby @DawnAntalios

 

[SilverFlight]

Alec was stone-faced when the others made it into the room. He said nothing at first, but the worried expression he tried to hide came out then Simon entered.


Calista has been summoned already and she was shaking with rage. Slowly Alec turned the box around. Inside it were four Watch I.D. tags, two animal and two human, and a letter which had several drops of red spattered over it haphazardly. The letter he handed to Simon.


"You might want to read it so everyone can hear."


Dear Watch agents,


I am surprised that you sent such an incompetent team to extract one of your own, truly the care you have for them is severely lacking. However, I am sure that there is someone out there willing to value your colleague's life a little more. That is why I am giving you until three o'clock this afternoon to bring the poodle star Gigi Canine to The gardens of Luxembourg, just behind Lycee Montange. Do this and I will be happy to make a trade for your captured agent.


If you are not at the meeting place before your time runs out, agent Strong will be terminated immediately.


The Rogues





"Those bastards." Calista growled. "They've given us until the start of the rally."


After the letter was read Alec looked at the others. "I don't know where to even start. If we don't do this, Strong dies. But we were given orders to protect Gigi...Unless we can find Strong before 3pm today she's history."


Duik bit his lip. "We can't just hand Gigi over to those psychopaths!"


Alec didn't say anything, he only looked at Calista and then at Simon.


@everyone

 

[deer]

Her face flushed but nonetheless, brightened even more when Alec commented that he would go to her if he ever needed a smile. Her? She made him smile? When was the last time she made someone smile? Tilting her head, she felt warmth gathering around her, though it wasn't because of Laohu since he had long gone to the room, but perhaps his words? Relieved to know that Alec wasn't uncomfortable by her slip up and agreed to walk her to her room, Xiao Hui couldn't resist to urge to excitedly clap her hands and waited for him to walk over to her. As he arrived next to her, Xiao Hui turned around, laughing slightly, as she shook her head at Alec's comment, "It's okay, actually. . I haven't talked to someone like this. . in forever, so it's refreshing. So. . don't ever 'shut it'." She said seriously yet kept the playful banter undertone, however, she really meant it when she said that, especially not wanting Alec to keep his mouth shut. Xiao Hui liked it when he talked because when he does give her his full attention, he's there, and his mind isn't somewhere else, and she appreciates that a lot. Alec actually listens to her. As they walked up the stairs, Alec teased her that he wouldn't want her getting mugged as she rolled her eyes teasingly, "I wouldn't want you falling down the stairs. . so I'll be there to pull you up." Xiao Hui giggled slightly as they made it to her room with Alec opening the door for her. She playfully curtsied, "Why, thank you, kind gentlemen." She said in a British accent that she picked up during her time in London before re-positioning herself properly as she nodded, walking into her room. However, before she stepped all the way in, she turned her back around to face Alec, tilting her head slightly. Whispering softly in response, Xiao Hui smiled, "Good night, Monsieur Alec, until the morning." Soon, silence ensued around them, as they stood there for a moment, Xiao Hui wondered what Alec was thinking, seeing that they both stood there, as if they were waiting or contemplating on something. Nevertheless, Alec soon left and Xiao Hui stepped back into her room, closing her room door slowly, not wanting to cause too much noise for the others who were perhaps sleeping already.


Walking into her room, she smiled softly at the bug, curled up, white tiger sleeping on her bed as she tried to tip-toe lightly over to him, but sadly, she couldn't since Laohu's eyes opened up as he spoke quietly, "Caught you red-handed, Hui." He sleepily teased before Xiao Hui huffed, "I need to work on that, but it's unfair. . you have heightened sense so of course you'll hear me." She said poutily before curling up into bed underneath the comforters as Laohu maneuvered himself over next to her. It was always a routine, Xiao Hui "sleeping" on one side and Laohu right next to her, she felt safe with him being so near her, especially at night. When was the last time she had a decent amount of sleep? It had been a while, perhaps, being away from home, she'd be able to sleep better. "Hui, what do you think they're doing now?" Gently reaching over to touch Laohu's pelt, Xiao Hui spoke tiredly, "They're beyond furious right now or they're celebrating, either way, I'm safe. . out here then there." Her voice cracking at the end of her sentence before she closed her eyes, taking in Laohu's breathing as he didn't say anymore to her as they drifted off in a much needed sleep.




The sun ray's seeped through the windows as the sound of chirping birds echoed outside. Her eyes slowly fluttered open as she looked around for the time, but none was there. Perhaps it was early morning? How long had she slept? Sitting upright on the bed, Xiao Hui looked over to Laohu, seeing that he was still sleeping. Well . . he is a cat, so cat naps are always needed, but even much more so, it seemed Laohu needed more sleep than she did. If she remembered correctly, she could only get at least 3 hours of sleep a night, but here, it felt like she slept 2 hours longer, without the nightmares that plague her dreams. Gently pulling the duvet covers off of her, Xiao Hui gently stepped on the floors as she made her way towards the window, squinting slightly until her eyes adjusted to the light. Opening the curtains and then the window, Xiao Hui closed her eyes, inhaling Paris and the nature, as she felt quiet serene on this lovely morning. However, as she floated back down from her restful and peaceful state of mind, she looked over to Laohu as she remembered their short conversation last night. Xiao Hui couldn't just ignore the nagging feeling in the pit of her stomach at the same time, she missed. . she missed her family, her Father, but she doubted he felt the same. Sighing, Xiao Hui shook off the negativity as she went to go and clean herself up. Soon, Laohu joined her in refreshening up for breakfast and greeting the others. As they finished, she heard music echoing the hallways as she couldn't help but giggle, knowing it may have been Duirk. She really needed the 411 on pop culture in America, or rather, everywhere else. As they finished, Xiao Hui made her way to where everyone seemed to be meeting as Laohu trotted behind her. Seeing mostly everyone downstairs by now, she couldn't help but feel the tension in the air. Her smile died down as she read everyone's expression, but not before hearing questions left and right towards Alec who seemed to be holding a box and then a letter. And. . . there it was, the big bomb that occured. Her head was spinning as Laohu spoke, "The calm before the storm, is it not?" Xiao Hui had let those words linger in her mind as her mind was also processing the facts that was presented in front of them. Her heart ached for Simon and Calista yet at the same time, she would not hand over her friends. "Divide and conquer?" She said outloud, agreeing with Alec, before she continued,"Half us should stay here, with Gigi, protecting her as the others buy some time before 3PM, unless someone can 'pretend' to be Gigi and formulate some sort of surprise attack. The other half. . can go and find Strong. It seems that she is definitely here. . in Paris. But, where? Did you find a signal, Calista?" Xiao Hui asked, stepping up to talk with the others, trying to formulate some sort of plan, knowing she may sound head-strong, yet at the same time, there wasn't any time to dilly-dally, especially when it comes to one's emotions. The more they were stupor by this, the more time they were wasting. "We have time . . to find her before the 'deal' sets, so we should start now, thinking of a solution, right? I'm not handing over Gigi and I'm not letting Agent Strong die."

@DawnAntalios @Lioness075 @SilverFlight @zCrookedz @Hel @Sleipnir @ManyFaces @Flutterby
​

 

[andujarprime]

Rin had awoken as the first rays of the sun began to reach his balcony. He had chosen a room that would open onto the sunrise specifically. It helped with his morning ritual. He sat on the balcony, still and peacefully. Haku coiled beside him as the first rays of the sun touched them. The warmth of the sun spreading over and through Haku left her feeling invigorated, and Rin could feel it as well. He took a deep breath and held it. After a few seconds he released. He continued his breathing exercise then stood up and stretched quietly. Before long he heard music, shortly after that shouting then a bang as a door was slammed open. He could hear hurried footsteps and shouting. Alec and Duik, he thought to himself as he recognized their voices. Before long he made his way downstairs. Stepping into the room just in time to hear the message. He could feel the anger, the tension in the room. He could feel his own building up as well. His hands clenched and unbleached in anger. He felt himself reaching for his sword, only to realize it had been left behind at HQ. Force of habit, "Then I guess we had better get to finding agent Strong." He said aloud, his voice steely and holding back anger. "If they planned to trade her off today, then she is near." Haku, ever the voice of reason for him chimed in helpfully. " With the traffic that this rally is due to cause she will have to be inside Paris already. Otherwise a deadline like 3 pm would be impossible to make for them." She added, trying to turn Rin's mood before it ran too far afoul. Trying to bring up reason and logic before emotions began to rage.

 

[zCrookedz]

Simon grabbed hold of the letter from Alec and began to read it out to everyone. As he did, His expression became more and more intense. They killed the Agents sent to retrieve Amber, they had her in god only know what state, and they were now bartering with her life. These rouges were only giving Simon more and more reasons to knuck each one of their skulls inside out. By the time Simon finished reading the letter, his expression was grim. Head tilted down, his eyes fixed on the letter, Jimbo nudged Simon a bit to try and snap him out of the darkness he felt in his partners mind.


Simon quickly ripped the letter in half, tossing the pieces back onto the table and turned away from them. Walking away from the table he placed a hand on the wall and balled it into a fist and pounded the side of his fist against the wall a few times. He could feel the anger boiling up inside him, the want to destroy every single rouge that was between them and Amber. The surprising thing was, Simon was staying relatively calm. While Jimbo was waiting with clenched knuckles to hold Simon back from punching a hole through the wall, his quiet partner was actually maintaining a fairly calm demeanor.


When SImon turned back toward the table, he was determined if nothing else. His arms folded over his broad chest, Simon listened to Xiao, Rin, and Haku. The trio were all right, and as Simon walked back towards the table slowly he looked to each of them as he spoke.


"I'm not much for making plans, that's what Jimbo is good at. But I think Xiao's plan sounds good. We can not let them get Gigi, Amber would rather die than let her fall into their hands."


Simon's attention shifted to Rin and Haku.


"Rin and Haku are right, she has to be here. All we need to do is find where she is and we can use Xiaos plan. But without the GPS we pulled from the limo, we are at a dead end."


Simon let out a sigh of frustration, when Jimbo stepped up beside him.


"While Xiao's plan sounds easy enough, Simons right. Without her location we cant make any kinda move. BUT that's not entirely true. We know where she will be at 3 o'clock. I doubt the rouges have an idea of how many of us their are, after all they left before we all climbed out of the limo."


Jimbo's eyes swept the group, like he was looking fro something. Then his eyes settled back on Alec.


"What about a trap? A few of us take Gigi to the meeting spot, while the rest of us wait to ambush the Rouges. We take out a few Rouges, get Amber out of there, then high tail it as far from that place as possible."


Jimbo felt a little ashamed that he mentioned using Gigi as bait, the poodle had been nothing but a gracious host and nice company. But he wanted to get Strong back, and he wanted to get revenge for his friends.


@SilverFlight @crucialstar @andujarprime

 

[DawnAntalios]

Zoe frowned as she listened to the suggestions. She thought all of them being risky, especially the part where they planned to take the Rogues out. It was painfully obvious that the enemy had no intention of making a fair deal - they wanted probably to keep Strong AND Gigi while they were at it, this entire mission reeked from the stench of being a trap.


" Tricking the Rogues is not our best option. " she said upon hearing Xiao " If they find out about the trickery then they will surely harm Strong. But neither do I think that a trap is the best solution - they are the ones who want to lure us in, they are surely prepared for anything we want to do. Unless... "


She started to think, looking up and down.


" If we could somehow get a jamming field around the exchanging point then we could theoretically block all communications in there. That would surely lower the risk of being caught - but these fields last for a painfully short amount of time, no matter how easy it is to conjure them. Yet if we are able to pull it off... "


She stepped forward, her expression being serious.


" I volunteer to be directly with Gigi. " she said with a firm voice " I can perhaps create a mini-EMP from one of my arrows should we need it. No matter what plan will we be going with I want to be in the thick of it: to avenge not only Strong but the atrocities they have committed. "


Eos looked at her and seeing the determination in her eyes he nodded.


" So must I go. I wish to bring them to their knees. "


@SilverFlight @crucialstar @zCrookedz @andujarprime @Flutterby

 

[SilverFlight]

Alec took all the info in quietly.


"This isn't like New York, but it still a big city. If we don't have some sort of clue on where to start there's no way we'd find her in time. Its also a bet on whether they'd actually bring her to the meeting place or not. It could just be a trap."


Alec had to admit this didn't look good. "Can we really trust the rogues to keep their word?"


~*~


They had started hours ago, inflicting pain in creative ways, but clearly the wolf wasn't as imaginative as he could have been. And for whatever reason they did no permanent damage to her body. Now Amber opened her eyes very slowly. This was only the first time she had fainted from the stress of the torture, and they had yet to notice that she had come round. They had shackled her to one of the cavern walls. It was old, she noticed. The architecture was at least 500 years, probably older. Another clue as to her location, but it still wasn't enough.


"Wait here." The wolf said finally. "There's something I need up top." Amber was glad they had reduced the dose of the drugs. She was almost completely aware of their conversation. Suddenly they said something that gave it all away. The wolf left and the doctor turned his back to her. This was it.


She forced herself to her feet, her ribs aching from the old damage and the new bruises beginning to form. Her legs protested wildly. The table just to one side held all of the items they had pulled off her, including a few tools and machine parts and...a bottle of wheel grease. The shackles about her wrists were not made for someone with her slender build, nevertheless they held her firmly, but if she could get that grease...She extended a foot, stretching as far as she could go. It just barely touched the foot of the table. She leaned back and then gave a sharp kick, jarring the whole thing hard enough to knock the bottle over. It rolled to the edge and fell off, Amber winced in pain as she reacted like lightning, catching it on the top of her foot and launching it into her hands. She dumped the contents over her bonds and worked the grease well between them and her wrists. Then she pulled. The doctor still has his back to her, and seemed not to have heard anything at all.


She twisted her hands and pulled and repeated the action several times until finally she had one hand free, then it was only a matter of second before she worked the other lose as well.


She tested her limbs and had to bite her tongue from crying out in pain. There was no way she could escape like this. Even if she could beat the human and the wolf in pain and drugged up pretty badly, there were clearly guards down here too. Creeping over to the table she cursed to see her phone had been smashed, the bottom of it was useless, not good for sending a written message or even calling. But she smiled when she saw it still had power, and the screen wasn't completely dead. Right. She didn't have much time. Backing slowly away from the table she skirted it and stumbled for a small corridor she had seen the wolf disappear down. There she made no attempt to run, but found a dark corner to hide in and wiped the remainder of the grease from her fingers to work the phone.


She may not be able to send a worded message, but there was still something the phone was capable of doing. She just hoped she could finish before she was caught.


~*~


Calista frowned as a sound beeped on her laptop. Indeed it seemed that anyone who had a communication device suddenly had it go off.


She checked the computer curiously and made a face.


It was a text with a set of images.

Recipient

Calista blinked at the image and turned her screen around for everyone to see.


@everyone

 

[Flutterby]

Beth and Totus stayed quiet as the others first spoke.


"If it were a hunt you would set up and dig in now for a later target. In a way it is. Its virtually the same as sitting in a stand." Beth said thoughtfully to Totus.


He nodded, and fluffed his feathers. "We should go. Or see if they beat us there." He agreed, then spoke to the whole group.


"Beth and I think.. Well if it were us, we would already be at the meeting spot, finding the best vantage points, watching patterns of foot traffic, looking for anyone who might be agents setting a trap... We think we should get someone out there now."


Beth spoke up, as she traced a swirling line on the table top. "Planning what happens at three is all well and good, but if they out-flank us before we even get there, it wont matter. You dont show up for a hunt minutes before you want to shoot the deer. You dig in and wait for hours. Chances are, theyre already there. If they are, I want to know where...."


She trailed off as devices went off, Calista spoke and turned her computer around. Her own phone was tucked away upstairs; she almost never used it for anything.


"Why is someone texting you like a twelve-year-old girl?" Beth said, equally confused. Sergeant Ben had a niece who insisted on texting in mostly emojis, and the messages were crazy puzzles that sometimes took Ben days to figure out. Totus was amused at the memory playing in her mind, and hopped onto the table to get a better view. But the string of images didnt make sense to even him, and he had been a wiz at cracking pre-teen code.


@Everyone

 

[andujarprime]

Rin listened to Xiao, Simon, and Zoe. He opened his mouth with a response, or more like a suggestion when the devices started going on. Calista looked at the phone, then turned it for everyone to look. After a few seconds his eyes lit up. "Guys, Simon get over here. It's Strong!!! That arm, that arm making a muscle, it's Strong!!" He exclaimed as he stepped closer looking at the next set of emoji. "She's trying to, is that? Is that a cross, and a skull and an arrow pointing down....holy, skulls, underground?" He repeated confused. " Catacombs, it's a holy place where the dead are entombed beneath the ground. Usually beneath cathedrals or other holy sacred areas." Haku spoke up, following his train of thought. Excited, and a bit jumbled but she was able to read his thoughts enough to answer him. "Are there catacombs in Paris? I can't remember, I can only think of the catacombs in St peters basilica, but that's in Rome." Rin asked aloud as he turned to the others.


@SilverFlight @everyone

 

[Sleipnir]

Bael had made his way down to where the group had gathered with his tea and Tu, and was mid-pour when Alec announced the message. He stopped just short of overfilling the cup and set the small cube teapot down, thinking and listening quietly as everyone talked the situation over. When Rin suggested they had her in the catacombs he looked up. "It could just be a threat. They'll kill her," he guessed.


Cedar stood up on his hindquarters. "We can't have that. I think I agree with you guys; we could trick them. Bears, we aren't super clever beasts or anything, but it isn't like we're weak. I could knock some heads together if I needed to."


Bael looked up when Zoe mentioned wanting to go with the group to fight. He shook his head and, with a surprising touch of fierceness, he responded, "No. Absolutely not, Zoe. You're mine to take care of right now. I won't have it." He looked around the group then, tentative, and then added, "You could pretend to go along with them. They'd be stupid to trust us, but then we've got Gigi and Strong in the same place."


@DawnAntalios @SilverFlight @Everyone

 

[SilverFlight]

Calista sat bolt upright.


"Strong! It is from Amber!" From the look on her small face anyone could tell she was exceedingly impressed with Rin.


"Paris does have catacombs," Alec offered, "unfortunately they're a labyrinth of tunnels and passages underneath the entire southern part of the city." Its still too large an area to search. And if she is down there you can bet there will be a huge Rogues presence too.


Calista looked back at the code. "Ok, so this last bit is likely catacombs, the first part, the house and in brackets those other symbols is probably a hint to exactly where in the catacombs she is."


"Quick Calista, tell us what you know about Agent Strong, what is she likely to think of making a code like this?"


Calista thought hard. "Well, she always liked art...mythology...Especially Greek mythology."


@andujarprime @zCrookedz @DawnAntalios @everyone

 

[ManyFaces]

Samantha woke up in her room not remembering much of the night that happened before,Velora had made herself at home by sleeping on the edge of the bed,she patted Velora waking her up and got herself ready and dressed while Velora left and followed the others scent to find them.Samantha got lost a few times before she caught up with her companion who was entering the room where the others were only for her phone to go off,she looked at it and began hearing word of Agent Strong and catacombs along with ideas from everyone,it was a bit confusing but she decided to pitch "Well,are there any tunnels near theatres because the symbols in the brackets seem like something you would see in a theatre...though I might be off" she said ending in a sigh.Velora swished her tail at the mention of rogues "Could bring police as a distraction...or backup but would be better to fight them off or smoke them out" she said in a tone that was awash with contempt "Why do rogues even want Gigi so badly that they attack and capture an agent?" she said in a tone that was more confused.Samantha wrung her hands it was after all a tense moment for her,she didn't want anyone to get hurt fighting off the rogues but that seemed like it was going to happen anyway.


@anyone and everyone (sorry if I goofed i'm trying to catch up ;^