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Fantasy Code FERAL

Zoe stumbled in the tunnels as she felt that her power was draining rapidly. She could not muster to move forward, she could not stand up any more - it seemed that she would finally be beaten by an insidious, malevolent force even she could not understand.


" Ringing ears... blurred vision... " the sound started again " The end approaches... "


But the end did not come that day. Beth swooped in and grabbed the exhausted girl, dragging her out from the tunnel with a strength that seemed almost impossible for her. With a feeble voice she murmured, looking at her savior.


" Beth... I owe you my life... " she whispered, coughing heavily " I will... I will repay you in... in kind. "


They barely managed to escape the tunnel where they could finally rest. She watched as Beth rushed towards the bus where everyone were waiting for them. She smiled faintly and only now did she remember the words she heard in the tunnel... they were a warning of some sort, a herald to something dark. The words gnawed at her soul like poison...


" Poison... " he eyes popped wide as the realization struck her " The bullet... was poisoned... "


Immediately she started to search for something in her suit when she felt a sharp pain at her heart, making her hiss in agony. It was at its final stage, the agony was almost unbearable. She finally found what she was looking for - a vaccine containing a strange, green liquid. Raising her other hand she prepared to inject herself with it... but then she felt the world going black and everything fell into complete darkness...


@SilverFlight @Flutterby


Eos smiled at Alec as he spoke to the old stag and he let out a silent chuckle.


" Well, you know what they say - old stags are the strongest ones. With age comes wisdom - and strength. "


He smiled watching as everyone returned from the expedition safely... everyone but Zoe. Mustering the strength to stand up the old stag walked outside of the bus, looking around carefully. His eyes filled with horror when he noticed the girl collapsed next to the tunnel and he rushed to her.


" Zoe, are you all right? " he asked but got no answer. He leaned closer to her only to reel back in sheer panic - her heartbeat was faint and it was rapidly slowing. Putting her on his back he dashed back towards the bus but then he saw the chopper arriving just in time. Figuring that with a helicopter it might be faster to reach their destination he changed direction and rushed towards it, putting her down on to the ground once he arrived, oblivious to the vaccine in her hand which she still clutched.


" Please someone! A medic or anyone, what ails her? She does not answer, nor she wakes up... please help! "


@anyoneinterested
 
Hearing Beth's comment, which oddly enough sounded much farther away than it really was, Manjano tried to smirk back at her, but it ended up looking more like some weird grimace. Oh well.


As Beth left and Totus took her place, Manjano didn't really bother trying to look at the owl, as his vision was still doing weird things. Damn this blood loss.


Hearing Totus' advice, Manjano furrowed his brows, as that meant that he'd have to move the arm that was still throbbing when it wasn't even moving.


Deciding that it was probably best to not add more reasons for why Totus should dislike him, Manjano merely nodded in response and then slowly, and with much grunting, shifted his injured arm so that it was closer to his chin.


Just as he finished that small, yet very painful, move, Beth returned and this time she had a blanket ready for him.


After Beth put the blanket over him, Manjano suddenly realized with a start that he'd been shaking up until this point without even realizing it. Dang.


Luckily, not too long after Beth gave him the blanket, the medics did their thing, with Manjano gasping and quietly protesting the whole time, until Manjano was secured on the backboard, with Beth's blanket still on him.


Just before the medics left the bus with Manjano, he weakly grabbed her wrist with his good hand before saying softly, "Falarion."


Letting go of her and hoping she understood him, Manjano was then carried out of the bus and towards the helicopter before he was set on the floor right beside Strong.


Once the medics secured him on the floor, they exited the chopper to help the others while Manjano closed his eyes and tried his best to ignore the fact that he now had a terrible headache on top of everything...and the noisy chopper wasn't helping any.


@Flutterby @zCrookedz @SilverFlight
 
Bael was suddenly pulled away by Eos's yell. He was up and over at Zoe's side in a moment, checking her pulse and alarmed at what he was finding. He looked up at the hart and shook his head a bit, at a loss for several moments. What could it be? She was healthy. Surely she couldn't just... Stop. He frowned and stared at the vial a moment before picking it up gingerly, examining it. Why did she have it? She surely had a reason? He hesitated. Perhaps some infection had set in — some poison...


Poison? Was that it?


Bael hesitated a moment longer. He took the vaccine from her and, only taking a moment to prepare the needle, injected it. "Come on," he whispered. "Come around now. We need ya." Anxiety was setting in. He didn't know what else to do besides this. He looked at the others, then back at Zoe, fear slowly overtaking him.


@DawnAntalios
 

Xiao Hui smiled softly at Nigel as he greeted her back. Nodding, she was glad to see a chipper person knowing the atmosphere was still a little tensed because of everyone's injuries and the plan hadn't gone too well. However, she was confident in herself to not let the pain get the best of her and when they arrived back to HQ, she would patch herself up, hoping she didn't need stitches. At least, Alec hadn't told her it was bad, then again, through the dried blood and the open wound, she didn't know, but nevertheless, she refuses to let anyone patch her up especially since showing her back to a doctor and the others is an absolute no. Laohu, on the other hand, chuffed in response to Gigi, glad she was in better hands now and with her companion, though, his tail lightly swayed, wondering what was to come next. He was glad Totus was given the proper care he needed before getting to the clinic where they'll have more than enough supplies to treat everyone's injuries better. As Xiao Hui had wandered in her own thoughts, she hadn't heard anyone speaking to her until the monkey Fie came up landing in the seat in front of her. Smiling at the monkey's flexibility, Xiao Hui gently extended her hand, slightly wincing before, looking at Fie, "Would you like to sit next to me? I wouldn't mind and I'm sure Laohu wouldn't either, as long as you don't chat in his ears." She giggled lightly before seeing Fie's animated expressions. With each word he spoke, Xiao Hui felt her heart lighten gradually as she couldn't help but be grateful for his antics. However, soon, Fie made a rose appear as he had stated Ash would have done it, though Fie tried his hand at it. To Xiao Hui, Fie was definitely an enthusastic and quite fun-loving companion to have, "Why, thank you, kind sir." She said to him politely, gratefully taking the rose in her hand before answering his question, "Yes, I'm alright, the others are in a much worse condition than I am. How about you? Are you faring okay?" Xiao Hui asked, tilting her head. Soon, Ash stepped over and grabbed Fie, apologizing for putting her and the others in danger. But, before she could say anything, knowing Ash also felt what she was feeling: guilt and remorse, he turned around, complimenting her beauty inside and out wasn't comparable to a rose, but even greated. Her face flushed slightly, stunned by the sudden change of events, but nevertheless, she giggled once more, before speaking to them through the comms they had, not wanting the others rest to be disturbed, but also hoping he still had it on him. "Don't apologize, Ash. Being in danger is part of our job, sorta, so we're bound to be put in such a situation. I was also at fault as well, the situation definitely turned quickly on us, and I can't help but apologize to you as well. I'm sorry, if I had let you talk, maybe. . there wouldn't be so much blood and injuries. . .But, nevertheless, we all made it out alive, and that's what matters. Gigi's back and well-protected." She spoke determined to cheer Ash up as much as she could as Fie managed to let her crack a smile. Once she finished, she turned off the comms and turned to look at the pair once more and gave them a genuine smile. Xiao Hui hated being vulnerable, especially showing fear and pain, so instead of letting others worry about her, she plastered a small smile on her face, one convincing enough to let others know she's fine and strong.


Laohu stayed quiet through the whole exchanged, still worried for his partner as he looked around for Duirk before nodding towards him, "Hey, Giggles. You good too? Haven't heard from you in a while, it's not a party without you." He said, trying to lighten the atmosphere even more but ended up finding himself worried about his friend he grew to like. Soon, Alec came over, smiling sheeplishly at Hui before allowing her to patch him up, so instead of being in the way, he nodded at the empty spot for Alec, "Sit here." He spoke before jumping off and going near Duirk. As Xiao Hui took some more bandages and found some anti-septics, alcohol, needles, and some more paper, she waited for Alec to sit down before beginning. "It may sting a little, but I believe you can handle it." She teased lightly, before looking at the bloodied stain on his shoulder before gently prying his shirt off his shoulder to give her easy access to the bullet wound Leandra had managed to patch up. Hissing slightly, Xiao Hui frowned, "Leandra will have your ass for this, Alec." She said, warning him before getting to work. Taking some cloth she managed to put pressure on the wound, getting as much blood out as she can, not wanting the blood to clot. Once she finished, she placed some alcohol on the a fresh and clean cloth and wiped off the remaining blood. "Alec, do you sing?" She asked, out of the blue, wanting to distract him from the pain she was about to cause him. Seeing the stitches being broken, taking the needle and wiping it with anti-septics and alcohol, she began restitching the wounds once more. Finally, she had cleaned and re-stitched Alec's wound as she scolded him slightly, "Don't open it again, Alec. My skills aren't as great as Leandra, so it'll hold for now. So whatever you do, don't do any heavy lifting or use that arm for a while." Xiao Hui said in a commanding tone before putting up the items and cleaning the unsanitary cloths. Sighing slightly, Xiao Hui looked at him worriedly, an expression she hadn't showed to him or others for a while, "You'll be okay, right?" She did as much as she could to close the wound, however, her handiwork wasn't as perfect or nearly as professional as Leandra or Alec, but it would have to do for now.


But, hearing Isabelle and Gigi arguing with each other, Xiao Hui looked up as Laohu's attention was on them as they listened to the commotion. Shock was an understatement of the century when they found out Gigi hadn't want to sing or even liked being a star. On the other hand, Isabelle misunderstood and believed she liked singing for others, only to be told she only liked it for Isabelle. Xiao Hui's heart melted at the scene when the two made up, feeling that all misunderstandings and broken bonds were mended as their connection grew much stronger than before. She was glad they made up. even much more so that Laohu had to agree with Falarion and grinned widely at the scene. Soon, they arrived at the meeting point as she heard that Isabelle and Gigi were going to the animal rally and couldn't help but grin at those words. "No need for thanking us, we wanted to protect a friend. Plus, looks like we're all on the same page now. I'm glad you two worked things out." She said relieved and genuinely towards Isabelle and Gigi. As they managed to arrive, she saw Beth walking out and greeting Totus as Laohu hummed in delight as Beth followed suit to go and see Majano. However, what shocked Laohu the most was when Eos had gotten into the chopper and screamed out for help. Frantically, Laohu ran across from the bus to the helicopter and looked down at Eos' worried and concerned look at Zoe as Bael tried to see what was happening. "What happened? We need to get her to the hospital, clinic, or anywhere that has the tools to see what caused her to be like this. Let's move, now!" Laohu said loudly enough for everyone to hear. Feeling Laohu's emotions, Xiao Hui looked over at Alec and turned over to Nigel, "See you soon?" Finishing her good-byes, she walked out of the bus, painstakingly slow, but she used her voice instead to voice out her concerns, "Leandra?" She spoke out to her, then looked around the area. However, soon, Laohu came out looking frazzled as he nudged her to go to the helicopter. "We have to go." He said as he dragged her on board faster but gently enough to get her in. Getting in, she saw a new face, "Hello, there. I don't think I've seen you before? Are you also part of the team too? I'm Xiao Hui." She introduced herself as Laohu nodded in return only wanting Hui to sit next to him. Laohu was still anxious about her injuries but never voiced it until he heard Zoe collapsing out of nowhere. Xiao Hui felt Laohu's nervousness as she stayed close to him, making sure she was able to calm him down from his scare. Her eyes fell on Zoe as she bit inside her lips hoping someone with more medical experiments can help, instead, she stayed away to give them space. However that didn't stop her from calming down Eos, Bael, and Laohu. "Guys take a deep breathe, in and out, Zoe will make through this, but freaking out won't help. Eos talk to her, even if she's not awake, sometimes talking to her subconscious can help, continue telling her you are here no matter what. Bael, do you need anything?" Soon, Xiao Hui looked at Laohu and found a spot on the helicopter and held his paw as he laid on her. Her eyes scanned the area, finding Simon and Jimbo, "Hi guys." She spoke to them as she remained calm, trying to be the voice of reason for the others. Xiao Hui's concern for Zoe gradually heightened as she felt her arms shaking, hoping someone found a solution soon.

@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @zCrookedz @Hel @Sleipnir @WoodenZebra @Lioness075 @Peaceswore @Flutterby @andujarprime
​
 
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As Leandra anxiously waited outside of the bus, she quickly stood straight and stopped leaning casually against it once Beth appeared and called for the medics.


Despite wanting to join the medics and help them, Leandra felt as if she'd only get in their way so she hung back again, resuming her anxious wait until the medics exited the bus...with Manjano strapped down on the backboard they'd entered with.


While Manjano was clearly out of it, which was definitely a result of blood loss considering how much blood was staining his clothes, skin and even the bandages covering the wound on his arm, Leandra still felt the need to rush to his side and whisper, "Don't worry, Manny. You're going to be okay now...I promise."


It'd been years since Leandra had used Manjano's nickname and she quickly fell behind, as she slowly halted herself. Staring after Manjano forlornly, Leandra then wondered if he even remembered his nickname. The last time she'd used it...they'd both been ten years old. Eleven years ago...it felt like decades ago despite the twins only being twenty-one years old.


Hearing someone crying out for help broke Leandra out of her stupor and she shook her head before looking over to find Eos frantically standing near Zoe, who had seemingly collapsed unexpectedly.


Before she could rush to Zoe's side, Bael was already there. Leandra watched from afar, but it appeared Bael managed to help her out for now.


Seeing how frozen Bael was quickly becoming, Leandra quickly left where she was and grabbed two of the nearest medics before pointing in Bael, Eos and Zoe's direction. Nodding at Leandra, the medics quickly joined the trio and began helping Zoe up since she appeared to be poisoned and not with broken bones or torn muscles. Despite her being unconscious, the medics were able to get Zoe onto the helicopter and then secure her on the floor beside Manjano.


Once Zoe was taken care of, Leandra cautiously walked up to Bael and Eos before saying, "Hey, guys...uh, I'm pretty sure Zoe's going to be okay. I don't know what you did for her, Bael, but she'll get the help she needs when we get back to HQ. The doctors there know what they're doing."


Since Leandra was so close to the helicopter, she failed to hear Xiao Hui call her name in the distance, Xiao Hui's voice lost in the sound of the chopper's blades whirring about above whoever was near or in the helicopter at the moment.


@DawnAntalios @Sleipnir
 
Alec caught himself smiling at what Fie said, the monkey certainly had character. Ash's apology however reminded him that he was still anrgy at the man. When he asked himself to be logical however the rwasons for the anger seemed less important.


"In all honesty Ash, it was pretty obvious Boris planned to kill us right from the start. There was no other way that could have gone. We did get out alive, so that's something." He tried not to sound too irritated after he had heard Ash go right back to his cheesy compliments for Xiao.


@Peaceswore @crucialstar


He sat by her obediently as she pulled back his shirt and began to treat the wound. "Ow!" He yelped, wincing as she began re-stiching. The hard roll on his shoulder had made the entire thing sore.


"Yeah, she probably will." He replied to her mention of the Aussie girl. Knowing that he was starting to know his team to the point where he could anticipate their reactions gave him a strange sort of comfort. Dwelling on that was why he was completely caught off guard by Xiao's next question.


"Sing? Er, no."


"Yes," The ever helpful Duik chimed in.


"Badly."


"For a nightingale."


"Shut up D."


Duik giggled, "Whenever I can't sleep Alec sings to me." Duik confessed, Alec facepalmed, but suddenly the hyena became a bit more serious. "The first time I heard music, it was on Alec's radio and I'll never forget it. It was the most miraculous thing ever, noises all of a sudden being organized and set into harmony. Well the day after, the radio...it got broken." Duik glanced at Alec, who gave him a warning look to avoidthe 'how' of that statement. "And I was pretty sad that night, suddenly, the tume drifted to me through the dark. It was Alec! He memorized the song and sang it back to me. From that day on, whenever I feel sad, or lonely, Alec sings that song, and it always makes things better."


He looked up sheepishly at his human partner, thinking he'd probably said too much, but Alec was smiling at him.


After that Duik padded right over to Laohu, wearing a happy grin. "Truer words my fine, striped friend," he laughed. "I am the party. Hey, seriosuly though, none of those kamikaze kangaroos got you did they? Or those machine-gun chimps?"


Alec cleared his throat, trying not to look as embarassed as he felt. "The hyena's biased, I really don't sing that well." In a desperate bid to change the topic he added. "So you patched me up, how about letting me return the favour." He gestured to her back.


@crucialstar


Gigi returned Falarion's sad gaze with one of her own. "Oh my dear, you are ze bravest, most sharming wolf I 'ave ever met...even if you are not really a wolf."


She leaned in close to him and pressed her soft, pink nose to his.


Looking down shyly after that she added, "We must keep in touch, and if ever you are back in Paris, you know precisely where to go."


She stood up slowly and asked Isabelle to carry Falarion to the helicopter, which she agreed to do without question.


"Farewell Falarion." Gigi said softly as he left.


@Lioness075


*~*


The blades began to quiet as the helicopter shut its engines for the loading. It was lucky there was enough space next to the ruined masoleum to land the massive machine.


Amber shook her head weekly at Simon's comment, smiling hurt her face. "What?...Paris isn't...good enough for you?"


Calista chose a spot on the strecher and would not be moved from it.


"In all honesty...though...I never want...to get captured again..."


With a moment's pause as they began lifitng the stretcher up she added; "I really missed you, Simon."


@zCrookedz


Calista blinked, but beyond that didn't react. Instead she called to Jhet.


"Good work agent, you should come back to HQ with us. Darcy's gonna want to debrief us all. Just hop in the chopper."


@WoodenZebra


On seeing Zoe lying on the floor she looked about for someone to give her an explanation. It seemed like no one had one.


She barked at two of the medical staff in the helicopter. "Hey! Get a stretcher for that agent there and get her in here now!"


@DawnAntalios
 
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Beth stood back and let the medics prepare Manjano, who seemed none to pleased to be moved around. Once he was secured to the backboard, and they began to move him, Beth turned to see if there was anyone else in need if help on the bus. Mid-thought, a hand closed around her wrist and she froze, terror clouding her brain for a moment.


Totus pressed his body closer, feeling the tension under his feet instantly.


Beth relaxed and looked down to find Manjano holding weakly onto her. She slid her hand up into his and gave it a squeeze as he tried to say something. Almost no sound came out of his mouth, but Beth understood 'Falarion.'


He released her and the medics took him, leaving Beth frowning after them.


She was stuck in thought for a few moments, but a nudge from Totus brought her out of it.


"Right," She whispered to him, and waited while he said goodbye to Gigi. Beth followed behind Isabelle and waved goodbye sadly to Gigi, wondering if their team would ever see their new friend again. When they reached the chopper, Beth climbed in and reached out to take Falarion from Isabelle. As she did, she smiled warmly at the woman. Her initial impression had been pretty negative, but now she and Gigi seemed to be on the right track again. "Take care." Beth said.


Once Falarion was in her arms, Beth moved deeper into the helicopter. Totus manuevered another blanket out of her backpack and laid it out on the floor. There wasnt enough room on Manjano's stretcher for him, and they needed to leave quickly, so Beth simply laid Falarion onto the blanket and sat on the floor next to him, leaning her head back and closing her eyes for a moment. Her whole body hurt, and her head was killing her, but she was fine otherwise, and Totus would be soon. They were lucky.


@SilverFlight @Lioness075
 
Ash walked off the bus and sighed as he moved out of the way for others to pass him and get on the chopper that were in more critical condition namely the girl named Zoe. 'What happened to her? Did someone poison her on her job?' He wondered before he moved his eyes over to Fie who was glaring back at the bus. "What? Did you leave your bag on the bus again?" "No.....That Alec guy." "What about him?" "Hmph I think he's a jerk." Fie mumbled as he crossed his arms and looked away. At this Ash blinked a bit before he let out a small chuckle. "Let me guess, he took the last applejucie." "No...I don't think so... Did he?? If he did then he's a jerkyer jerk than I thought!" "....Fie Jerkyer isn't a word." "I said it, so now it is." "Whatever you say buddy..... Why on earth than do you think he's a jerk, if he didn't take your juice?"


Fie looked back at Ash and climbed to the top of his head before leaning down looking face to face with his partner. "Didn't you hear him? How he spoke and all that? Quote, In all honestly Ash, it was pretty obvious Brois planned to kill us unquote." Ash sighed at this and moved to the chopper. "Yeah I heard him, now can you get out of my face so I can walk without tripping?" "Aren't you mad!? He's pretty much called you an idiot who can't come up with a decent plan!" "Fie stop shouting, and it's fine, I messed up and he simply called me out on it. No biggie, okay?" "No! It's not, you didn't know it was going to be Boris! And when you found out there wasn't much yo-" "Fie hush now, what's done it done. We got out alive and that's good, so don't get angry for a few comments." "Still....... To me that comment wasn't needed." Ash just smiled as he picked Fie up by the scruff of his neck and placed him on his uninjured shoulder. "I'm sure after I cry myself to sleep I will get over it." "I sense sarcasm." "Haha Can't imagine why." "Oh I see how it is.... You're hair is too purple by the way." "So I've been told, not sure how what you were talking about before lead to that though...." "By the way Ashy why are you going to the chopper? You need to get your shoulder looked at, the medics are over there." Fie said as he pointed at the medics.


Ash looked over at them and nodded. "Okay, right, healing." He mumbled as he walked over to the medics. Finding one that wasn't busy she looked at his shoulder and inspected it closely. "It's just a flesh wound, got a some torn muscles, don't move this arm more than you need to so it will heal faster. Luckly no bone was hit, I just need to do some sticthes and you should be fine in the long run." The women said before getting out thread and a needle to care for his wound. Ash nodded at this and sighed as he looked at his clothes. "I really liked this style to." He mumbled as he took his vests and dress shirt off so they wouldn't be in the way while she worked. "This will be quick right? Got a chopper to catch." The women was silent for a moment as she looked at Ash's uncovered torso before jolting a bit. "H-Huh? Oh...Y-Yes it won't take long." She mumbled a slight blush on her face. Ash gave her a soft smile and looked in front of him once more, while Fie just giggled.


He let out a small hiss of pain every now and then but mostly ignored it. He closed his eyes and focused on what happened today recalling everything and figuring out how he messed up. 'Well one I tried to talk reason to a bear that killed his partner...two I fought a bloody kangaroo with bladed gloves, and three I don't know the others well enough to call the shots. Alec may have been better on the ground and Totus could have dealt with the snipers, I should have been the only one to go up while the others prepare an ambush.... Geez stop thinking about it, what's done it done.' He thought though he still felt a knot in his stomach. "I'm done. Here." The medic said while she looked away from Ash handing him a white shirt.


Ash looked at it and smiled. "Thanks, so don't move the arm and such right?" He asked as he carefully placed on his shirt. "Right, that should do it for now in a few days you should see a doctor to get the stiches out." After this Ash gave the women a charming smile and said thank, which made the other's heart skip a beat. Once that was done he moved away from the medic Fie once more on his shoulder and climbed into the copper. "Not the only one having a bad day." He said with a small chuckle as he leaned back a bit. "So, whats the deal with the merc on the grass?" Fie asked as he hopped off of Ash's shoulder only to move and climb up Jimbo. Why? Because now he had the best view of the place...so...why not?


@SilverFlight @zCrookedz
 
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Eos looked with a worried expression as Bael walked up to the girl and injected her with the strange liquid. He waited for moments, moments which felt like an eternity to him - he expected Zoe to open her eyes, to jump up and yell at everybody for staring at her. But she did not, the girl remained unconscious, her body being still like a stone - the great huntress lay there in front of the old stag and he felt powerless to help her. Hearing what Xiao said he nodded and knelt down next to her.


" If you wake up... If you wake up I will buy you your favorite sweets. " the old stag said with a faint smile " You still love chocolate-strawberry ice-cream, right? Wake up so that we both can enjoy it, all right? Please... "


He fell silent as the girl's emotionless face stayed stoic and he was on the verge of crying - but he managed to hold himself together in the end. He watched as two doctors approached, the ones sent by Leandra, and he observed as the two of them put his girl gently on the helicopter. He then turned to her, Xiao and Bael, forcing a smile on his face.


" Thank you all so much for caring, for helping. " he said with gratitude " I-I have feared the worst, yet... you helped her, you kept her safe... " he turned to Leandra " You were with her in those catacombs... you defended her! And now that we are all here all of you offered your aid... "


He bowed his head, a drop of tear rolling down on his dirty fur.


" I am in your debt - you are heroes in more ways than one, and I shall not forget your kindness. "


With that he turned towards the helicopter and boarded it, sitting down next to Zoe. As he watched everybody getting on the flying machine he noticed that Calista ordered few of the medics to put her on some sort of mobile bed and after they did he noticed something strange in the other hand of the girl, something that he did not notice before. His eyes widened in surprise as he inspected the peculiar item from close up - it was a petal of black rose.


" It can't be... " he stared at her with surprise and with shock - but then he noticed something strange happening. Her left eye was open just slightly and with a gleeful grin and a very weak whisper Zoe finally said something.


" So... where is my ice-cream you promised me? "


@SilverFlight @Sleipnir @crucialstar @Lioness075
 
Simon watched the medics move Strong, keeping pretty close to them as they moved her. He smiled at her comment about Paris, but when she said she had missed him, Simon's eyes got a bit wider and his face became the slightest bit more red for a moment. He opened his mouth to speak, but his words had trouble forming his sentences. The woman laying on the stretcher was so much different that the one he had met all those years ago. It was a bit shocking for Simon at first, but he came to the conclusion that the ordeal had taken more out of her than just the physical damage. He followed the medics onto the choper and sat down next to her and Calista on the floor smiling at the pair of them.


"I missed you too Amber, and don't worry, I wont let anything like this happen again. Promise."


@SilverFlight


Jimbo continued to take bullets and shells out of his arsenal as he listened to Leandra speak. When he finished, it looked like she had wandered off in search of her brother while Luness coninuted to circle over head. Jimbo sighed as he reached for a pocket on his belt and found two incredibly thick and imposing looking zipties and flipped the man on the ground over on his back. After securing his hands together, Jimbo was about the hoist him back over his shoulder when he felt something crawl up onto his shoulder. Jimbo looked to see the tiny monkey sitting there looking at the man on the ground and Jimbo couldn't help but crack a smile at the tiny primate.


"This one was lucky enough to run into Leandra before it ran into Simon's table, Rins sword, Zoe or Beths arrows, or my bullets. Looks like he gets to come back with us and answer a few questions."


Jimbo grabbed the mans restraints and dragged him across the ground as he moaned and groaned until he reached the chopper. Once he was aboard with the Merch he dragged him to the opposite side of the wall and let him lay on his side there until they got back to HQ. Jimbo sighed with relief and turned around to see the others climbing aboard. Some of them looked like they had gotten the snot kicked out of them. Course, the singed fur on Jimbos back and some of the others, as well as the minor scrapes, bruises, and dirt made it look like everyone had had a rough day. Jimbo found a spot across from where they had strapped Manjano and Amber down on stretchers and took a deep breath before looking back at Fie.


"So cousin, what exactly happened to your group that made them get all banged up?"


@Peaceswore @Lioness075
 
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Hearing Leandra and Calista's orders of bringing Zoe to the medical helicopter made Laohu calm down, slightly. He was glad his dear friend Eos would fund ease and comfort knowing Zoe was being taken care of. Xiao Hui, on the other hand, nodded towards Eos as she reached a small hand out and patted his forehead, "We're comrades, or rather, friends, aren't we? We watch each other's back, so there's no need for thanks between friends. Let's wait for the recovery and hope she wouldn't be too stubborn , right?" Xiao Hui gave out a soft laugh, knowing Zoe hated being tied to bed when she could be out on a mission. As Zoe was being taken to get some medical assistance and Eos followed, she noticed Alec walking into the helicopter as well, eyeing the wounded shoulder he had. It wasn't obvious that Xiao Hui was avoiding Alec after he asked her if he could see her back, hence why she managed to get to the helicopter much faster than he had. However, remembering the conversation they had while she was stitching him up, she couldn't help form a smile on her face. Her eyes wandered towards Durik as Laohu greeted him playfully with a tail whacking his face. "Hi, softy." She greeted him, remembering him saying "ow" when she had stitched him up. To avoid the topic of her back, she waved it off, "Nothing but a bath and some stitching would do, it's nothing serious." She said, waving a hand towards Alec, though the slight hiss she managed to surpass said otherwise. But, thankfully, Duirk disruptted Alec as he answered her question if he sang. Her eyes lit up, knowing Alec was kind to his companion, and he was able to soothe Duirk's nerves just from singing the tune he had memorized on the radio. Whispering towards Duirk, Xiao Hui smiled, "A nightingale? Your very own, personal, lovable, one, isn't he?" She was curious to know Alec's voice, although it may not be up to par as perhaps Gigi, but she still wondered how he sang. However, she was too nervous to ask him if he could sing for her, but instead kept quiet. "Hearing loved ones sing to you is definitely the best feeling you could ever feel, especially when you're scared. You two are lucky to have each other." She complimented and said in awe, "My mother used to do the same thing for me, much like how Alec does for you. I don't know what it is about singing and lullabies but it's definitely a great form of comfort." Xiao Hui grinned though a small ache surpassed her face, but as quick as it showed, as quick as it left as Laohu nuzzled against her. Next, Laohu lifted his head up and rolled his eyes at Duirk, shaking his head, "Nope, none of those crazed animals can get at us, right, giggles?" However hearing Alec deny the compliment from Duirk, Xiao Hui grumbled slightly huffing, "Take a compliment." she said pouting slightly as she looked for something to throw at Alec, as she decided on a paper towel roll, and hummed it at him with gentle force. "You can't expect me to agree with you, Alec, if I haven't heard you sing, right? Plus, I trust Duirk's judgment." Xiao Hui said, raising a slight brow, before laughing, shaking her head. She liked this, the atmosphere was soon getting back to somewhat normal, joking and laughing together again. They have Agent Strong back and Gigi's safe, now it was just the road to recovery and she'll be damned to let a small injury stop her from being a part of the crew. Laohu, on the other hand, loosened his hold on Hui, feeling slightly better, but he still worried on how she was going to stitch up the slash on her back. Honestly, the both of them were just glad to see all of the people that went came out alive enough to see the next day.

@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios
​
 
Hearing Gigi's saddened response, Falarion lowered his head a bit with his ears plastered to his head and then let out a small whimper. He'd only just really met Gigi and gotten to know her. It wasn't fair that he had to leave her so soon like this.


When Gigi touched her nose to his, Falarion' eyes widened while his face turned redder than it ever had been before.


Feeling incredibly sheepish now, Falarion gave Gigi a crooked grin before replying, "Of course, Gigi. I'll keep in touch and will definitely have to find a way to visit sometime in the future."


As Isabelle moved to help him to the helicopter, Falarion's expression quickly became saddened again, as Gigi said her final farewell to him.


Remaining quiet now, Falarion barely even reacted beyond wincing a bit when Beth took him from Isabelle.


As Beth carefully lay him down beside Manjano, Falarion could only crawl up close to Manjano's stretcher before laying his head down on his good leg while wistfully looking out of the helicopter to watch Isabelle and Gigi's retreating figures.


Remaining unusually quiet and withdrawn, Falarion felt his eyes well up with tears as he began to sniffle a bit.


How could a simple goodbye hurt this much?


@SilverFlight @Flutterby


Grateful when he felt Falarion's presence beside him with their mental connection, Manjano knew he'd have to thank Beth for helping the pair out so much, though he had no way of properly forming his words at the moment.


As he felt himself finally drifting off to unconsciousness, Manjano's last thoughts were of confusion, as he wondered why Falarion felt so sad. What happened?


@Flutterby


Joining everyone on the helicopter, Leandra quickly found a seat near Beth, as she happened to be sitting near Manjano and Falarion.


Manjano had already passed out at this point, but Falarion still seemed conscious, though he was in a world of his own.


Fidgeting in her seat while seeing Manjano in such a bad condition, Leandra nervously wondered if everyone was onboard yet so they could finally head back.


While Leandra knew she could always use one of her fancy vials if she needed to, even the most injured of their team seemed to be steady enough to hold out until they returned. As it was, Leandra hadn't really counted how many vials she had and so she felt it'd be best if she saved them for absolutely dire situations.


When Jimbo boarded the helicopter with the bounded up baddie, Leandra raised an eyebrow at the man before wondering how they were going to interrogate them. Would they hurt him?


Before she could think too much of it, Leandra was soon joined by Luness, who lightly landed on her lap before settling down.


While Luness hadn't been hurt too badly, she'd hit that wall in the tunnels pretty hard and was worried that she had some bruised bones or something. It was hard to know if she'd done any damage to her wings, though she had no doubt that everyone would be double checked and cleared or sent to the infirmary once they arrived.


Before she could even consider trying to get a nap in, Leandra's thoughts were interrupted by Eos suddenly exclaiming to her and praising her, as if she'd somehow done something to aid in helping Zoe in the tunnels.


Suddenly feeling uncomfortable in the spotlight, Leandra looked down at her lap and fiddled with her hands before saying, "I'm not the one you should be thanking. I was useless in the tunnels and helped nobody..."


Hoping nobody was paying any attention to her, especially now that Zoe was waking up, Leandra shifted about in her seat so Luness was sitting beside her now and Leandra's knees were pulled up to her chest.


Luness rubbed her head against Leandra's side in a comforting manner, but Leandra felt far from comforted in the moment.


While everyone else here had taken a beating one way or another, she'd been hiding down in the tunnels and cowering from any enemies she'd encountered. What use was she to the team if all she did was hide from the danger?


@DawnAntalios @Flutterby @SilverFlight
 
Beth listened silently to the conversations around her. Eventually, she could even hear the breathing and heatbeats around her. Manjano's wasnt as steady as it should have been, and neither was Zoe's, but they were stable enough to make it to base. Alec and Xiao Hui seemed to gotten past the wedge that was Ash, at least for now. Simon and Strong were doing well now that she had almost died. And others were catching up on what had happened between the two teams. Beth could feel Falarion's sadness, even without looking at him. She opened her eyes, and reached out, stroking his back gently. She didnt have words for him, but hopefully a little contact would help.


Beth stayed quiet, letting her brain rest. Totus, on the other hand seemed pretty prepared to interact with others.


He looked over as Zoe awoke, and called, "Welcome back, Zoe," but didnt interrupt the moment otherwise.


His attention settled next on Leandra, as she spoke, and he turned his coal black eyes toward her.


"Don't speak like that, Leandra." The owl said. "Your skill set is as important as any. Maybe even more so. Anyone can learn to fight, but very few have to ability to heal the aftermath. Do not discount yourself for having no taste for violence." His tone could have been taken as stern, but he meant it be firm but gentle. "Sometimes sparing a life is harder than taking one." He added, with a look over at the mercenary that he gathered Leandra had chosen to save, even though it had added an extra body to their mad dash.


@Lioness075 @SilverFlight @DawnAntalios


(@crucialstar @zCrookedz @Peaceswore mentioned)
 
Alec didn't really like how Xiao had brushed off the importance of treating her injury. Almost as if she was nervous about letting someone look at it.


"Well, when we get back, I can do the stitching if you want. You can trust me." He placed a comforting hand on hers.


He sat there and listened to Xiao tease him, for some reason it didn't feel much like teasing when Xiao was doing it. He looked at her with a surprised expression when she mentioned her mother singing.


"My mother used to sing too." Duik looked surprised. In all the time he had known him, Alec had only mentioned his mother a handful of times. She had died when Alec was only 6.


He let the paper roll bounce off him harmlessly, but still started at the impact. "Hey!"


In retaliation he picked it up and tossed it back at her.


@crucialstar


As the helicopter lifted into the air, Gigi, Isabelle, Nigel and George all sent them off with a wave.


The news report that evening detailed the explosion at the Mount Parnassus cemetary, and it also covered a highly successful rally. An excerpt from Gigi's speech was played for a few minutes, where she spoke of proactive change and non-violence in protest. Not many could have guessed that behind the glitter and makeup there was such an intelligent and powerful figure.


Alec watched a few bits of it as he prepped a table in the surgery. He had asked Xiao to come in and get her back seen to. This room was isolated from the main ward, where he thought she would be most comfortable.


Amber was through a set of doors on the far side of the wing. She had been treated and was stable but sleeping, one hand resting peacefully on Calista's back. Calista hadn't moved from her side since Paris. She knew eventually Darcy would summon them all to the debriefing, and they would be reprimanded for defying orders and going to rescue Amber.


Duik was prowling about by the cafeteria, savouring the many smells that wafted to him from the kitchen's threshold. He had already been back to the room, and sported a saddle-bag style carrier with his headphones and a small launchpad.


@everyone


((Lame post is lame, didn't have much time this morning, will do better later today.))
 

Xiao Hui blinked, as Alec was still intent on making sure her back was okay. He even reassured her enough that he'd stitch it for her, asking him to trust her. Jumping slightly from Alec comforting her, she soon eased slowly, taking in his reassurance. In heart, she felt as if she couldn't say no, but the practical side of her told to decline his offer and allow herself do her own stitching. But, nevertheless, when she mentioned her mother, she was surprised when Alec ended up mentioning about his own and to her, it seemed clear as day from Duirk's reaction that he, too, never spoke about his mother. In return, Xiao Hui lifted her hand up gently and turned Alec's palms around and placed her own on top of his, giving him some comfort in return. "Maybe. . that's why we're both so used to humming or singing to them, " she said softly, looking at both Laohu and Duirk, "when they can't sleep. 'Cause our mothers did it too." However, before she knew it, Alec retaliated and hit the roll back towards her as she, for the first time, in a while, stuck her tongue at Alec, as she laughed care-freely, "I'll get you next time."


Soon, Xiao Hui looked over at Falarion, seeing his saddened expression as Laohu spoke lowly, but comfortingly, "It's not the end, you'll be able to see her again, you'll see. Perhaps. . maybe even get in contact with her since Isabelle is still part of the Watch, isn't she?" He asked rhetorically, hoping that helped ease some of the pain and sadness he was feeling. "Maybe writing letters or what do you guys call it..? Face timing? Skype?" Smiling at Laohu's friendliness and openess, she cooed at him, "Someone's growing up, you big oaf." Xiao Hui giggled as Laohu rolled his eyes. However, hearing the Zoe had awaken, Xiao Hui's smile grew wider as she knew she and Manjano would get the medical assistance they needed back at HQ. At the same time, she heard Leandra's words and Totus trying to encourage and cheer her up, nodding, Xiao Hui wanted to put her own input in, "Totus is right, Lea. You made a good decision on keeping him alive, now, we'd be able to get something out of him. Also, you were brave, despite all odds, you helped as much as you can. And. . if I remember. . Agent Darcy was going to help train us too. So, there's always room for improvement. You're much a part and important asset of this team as anyone else." She said, wanting to help support her comrade too. Soon, when they arrived at HQ, she was a bit glad to be back, yet at the same time, she wondered if it would be best to clean herself up first. However, before she went anywhere in HQ, Alec had asked her to go and see him to get her back stitched, promising it would only be just him and no one else. Laohu looked up worriedly, but shook his mane, "Hui. . . I don't like this as much as you do, especially. . letting someone in. It's going to not end well. . you know it." Xiao Hui bit her lip as she saw Alec's retreating form, seeing he wouldn't take "no" as an answer. "I. . but. . Laohu, the more we stay here. . the more we'd need someone to help us. . especially if our wounds are much more severe. It's . . a risk we're taking. . " She said to him, but nevertheless, she knew, she'd have to convince Alec she didn't need stitching somehow. "But, right now. . I agree with you." Xiao Hui spoke as she looked over to see Calista never leaving Strong's side. However, her eyes saw something she didn't notice before. Was that a captured merc? What were they going to do with him? Whatever it was, she had to face Alec, not wanting him to wait for her for so long.


Laohu, on the other hand, decided to let her go alone as he went to head towards his room first to rest and clean himself up. Soon, Xiao Hui arrived at the door, peering inside the small window as Alec's back was facing her. She took a deep breathe, feeling nervousness grow in the pit of her stomach. Xiao Hui would never admit it, but she was scared. She didn't want to lose the friendship she had with him by being defiant and a"t the same time, she wanted to let him in, to let him know. But, the secret was too big for her to let him in, she trusted him . . but she couldn't trust herself. Taking another deep breathe, she found some sort of courage as she knocked on the door and gently opened it, letting herself in. "Hey, Alec." She said softly, in an even tone, no hint of nervousness. "Um . . ," she began, wondering how she became such a fearless leader to a shy and nervous school girl in five days, "I brought an extra pair of clothes. . Thank you for wanting to take care of my wound and helping me. . But, is it possible if I can stitch the wound myself?" Xiao Hui asked, looking around at the prep work Alec had done, as she bit her lip, more than grateful for his kindness and care. Duirk was right when he said that Alec can't stop himself from helping others. "It's not that I don't trust you, " she said quickly, hoping he didn't take it the wrong way, "It's just not a big deal and I wouldn't want to waste your time. . . Alec, I promise. I'll be good in no time, it's a small scratch." She said, raising her hand and moving it, including her back, only for her to hiss slightly. Walking towards the table, Xiao Hui leaned against it, "How's your wound?" She asked, wanting to change the subject, but knew in the pit of her stomach, he wouldn't have it.

@SilverFlight @Lioness075 @Flutterby @DawnAntalios
​
 
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Before the skip

Fie looked at Jimbo his grin leaving from his face as he let out a small sigh and shook his head. "It could have gone better. Boris was there, shots were fired blood was drawn and corpses linger the ground. None of them friendlies but still death happened." The Monkey said with a sigh as he stayed on Jimbo's shoulder, even when he had moved the merc. "Keheh All in all though not tooo shabby! Ashy wouldn't let me use the paint balls that have a kick though, so that's also a downer.... Meanie, I will use them one day." A snicker left him at this as he mainly said the last part to himself, though he truly had plans to use does paint balls, they were calling for him. It had to be done. "Oh what happened on your job?? Your fur is all...charred. Did ya go to a fire party that got out of hand?"


@zCrookedz


After the skip

Once they arrived at the base Ash left the group and was going to head to his room so he could call his family, but realizing the time he decided against it since he knew that the twins would be asleep... Or at least they better be. So instead he went to the cafeteria, giving Duik a wave as he passed he went into the kitchen itself. Sure he more than likely shouldn't be there, but as much as he loved cafeteria food. He wanted to make something himself as he was starving at this point. So entering this room he looked around and soon smirked as he knew what he would make. "Nothing like some chilli, maybe I'll make fries, or a hot dog? No... I should make a sloppy joe."


Despite how fancy Ash spoke, dress and acted at times, to him nothing could ever beat the classics he grew up eating. Just, nothing. So feeling stressed and slightly down, he knew the best way to cheer him up was to get some of his mother's chili, that being unavailable to him, he was just going to make his own. He may not be masterchef quality, but he did know how to cook. After all it turns out a lot of potential partners love it when the charming man can cook them a breakfast in bed~


While Ash was off doing that Fie had left the chopper and ran off to do his own thing. Soon he ended up hanging by his tail on a ceiling fan in what seemed to be a lounge. As he hanged upside down he thought about todays events... That was till he got bored of them and moved his mind to more important matters, far more important. Pranks. He wanted to pull something off before he was sent on another life threatening mission with crazy bears that like to kill peoples partner.... And now he must think. Who to be his target? What should the prank be? Should he get an accomplice? So much to do, who knows how much time!


@Anyone
 
Jimbo leaned back against the helicopters wall as he listened to the little monkey. The mention of Boris made Jimbo scowl slightly, but the little guys enthusiasm for his paintballs quickly turned the scowl away. At the mention of singed fur, Jimbo took another look at his back. Nothing had been burned all the way down, but there were distinct sections of his fur that were noticeably shorter and singed.


Jimbo sighed, "Its gonna take weeks for that to grow back. Oh well. Yea we ran into some opposition down in the tunnels. This fella and his buddies were there helping the Rouges, which is strange. The set a trap for us when we got to Amber, blew up the tunnels. Oh well, all that matters is we both succeeded."


Jimbo leaned his head back and let the sound of the choppers blades relax him a bit as they headed back to HQ.


@Peaceswore


~


Simon sat beside Amber the whole flight back. When they finally arrived and the medics shuffled her off to the medical wing to get her squared away, Simon stayed behind so that they could tend to her wounds in peace. Exhaustion from the trip had left Simon feeling a bit on the weekend side, so he did the only thing he could do while he waited. After he and Jimbo swung by their room to drop off their gear, the pair made a quick plan to meet back up once Amber was out of her treatment and Simon headed off to his thinking place at HQ.


The gym wasn't incredibly full, the majority of the attendee's were on treadmills while a few others were using some of the more complicated equipment. Simon felt a bit of relief shake off him as he headed for the room off to the side where they kept the free weights. He walked in and set his gym bag down in the spot he had always set it down and began setting his bench up. Time seemed to pass by without to much of a thought. Soon Simon was half way through his fifth or sixth rep, when a man from the medical bay entered. Simon had asked the medical staff that took Amber to let him know when she was out of treatment. He wasted no time and made his way towards the med bay. When he arrived he stood outside the medical bay doors leading to Ambers room. He could see Amber and Calista getting some rest, which made him smile. He didn't want to disturb them, but he had wanted to check on Amber before heading out to find where Jimbo had wandered off to.


Jimbo waited for Simon to head out before he went to work cleaning his guns. He hadn't had to use the .50 cal's or the snub nose, but still gave them a wipe down before closing everything up in their cases. By the end of his cleaning routine, Jimbo felt the aching sensation of hungry gnawing at him and decided food was next on the agenda.


As he left the living quarters, Jimbo decided he would make a quick pit stop on his way to the cafeteria. He had seen the place he was looking for a few times, but not since he and Simon had first left. He made a few wrong turns, and even had to ask a passing walrus for directions until he found what he was looking for. Off in a discrete wing off the main wing sat a marble obelisk, much like the Washington Memorial with a few small groups gathered around. Half way up the obelisk the watch logo was engraved into the smooth marble face while the base of the obelisk had steel plates attached to it two per side. The steel plates were about eight feet tall each and had words etched into the faces on each side. Jimbo kept to the outside of the groups until he could see a plate marked with the year 2011 about half way down the plate. He moved a little closer and followed the list down towards the bottom until he came to the first name. He traced over the name with his finger and the name next to it separated by a hyphen. Nicole Wilson-Zip, Tyrone Smalls-Squeaks, Zach Sani-Douglas; Jimbo traced over each of the names with a finger and then took a step back as he stared at the names a bit longer. He smiled at the names and sighed as he turned away from the obelisk. He was glad the mission had been a success, in more ways than just keeping an eye on Gigi. For Jimbo it had been a success to finally get Simon to talk about the past. Maybe now the big guy could begin to heal a bit.


Jimbo walked up to the entrance of the cafeteria, but before entering recognized a familiar hyena creeping around sniffing at stuff. Jimbo smirked at Duik and tunred towards him and walked up behind him.


"Food tastes just as good as it smells ya know."


@SilverFlight
 
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As the helicopter began to lift off with everyone onboard, Leandra continued to remain huddled as she was, despite Totus and both Laohu and Xiao Hui reminding her that she still was, in fact, useful to the team.


Despite their kind words of encouragement, even Totus' slightly stern words of encouragement, Leandra couldn't help but continue to feel slightly guilty about how the whole mission had gone down. She was a healer and possibly could've even helped Strong heal faster with one of her vials or something. Maybe she could've helped Zoe from whatever it seemed to be ailing her.


Sighing, Leandra remained quite the rest of the way back and soon they had landed back at HQ, luckily it was an uneventful flight back.


As the others departed their own ways, Leandra was about to make a beeline for the gym when she startlingly realized that Luness had been injured, or acting a bit injured, during their mission.


Luness could sense how tense Leandra was, though, and knew that the girl wanted to relax the way she best knew how to.


Nodding at Leandra, Luness then left her shoulder, as she flew to the infirmary, leaving Leandra to make her own way to the gym.


After having to ask a few random people in HQ how to get to the gym, which only served to further irritate Leandra, she soon made it to the gym and walked inside to see a few other scattered agents she didn't know.


Quickly moving to the locker room there, Leandra then pulled out some wraps from her backpack and proceeded to wrap up her hands, quickly making herself look like a boxer.


Leaving her gear behind for now, Leandra then went straight to the nearest punching bag she could find in the gym and was relieved to find she was alone for now.


After a few minutes of warming up and getting used to the punching bag, Leandra soon launched into some simple combos before slowly building up to more complex ones.


While she wasn't too keen on talking about her own combat skills, Leandra had actually learned some basic martial arts moves while growing up, as well as self-defense. She wasn't that great at any of it, but using a punching bag was always her go-to method of relaxing after getting pent up about something.


@Flutterby @crucialstar @anyone near or in the gym (Simon already left so...*shrug*)


Luness soon arrived at the infirmary and it didn't take long for her to bring attention to herself and soon an avian specialist was looking her over.


Luckily, Luness hadn't been injured too badly, though she was a bit banged up in general form being thrown at a wall in such a manner.


Overall, she was given a clean slate and was just told to take it easy for a couple days...and to try and not be thrown into a wall again.


Deciding against returning to Leandra for now, Luness flew back out of the infirmary and soon was wondering where the captured merc was, as well as where his interrogation was going to be done. Weary of who would be in charge and how things would be handled, Luness knew she wanted to be there for it.


Luness also knew she had to make sure Leandra stayed clear of it. They wouldn't be able to hurt the merc if Leandra was there. At least, not badly enough to actually make him talk. Unless he was a coward and would speak up before they had to do anything to him.


@SilverFlight


Falarion couldn't help but continue to quietly cry, as they soon lifted off and left Gigi behind with a few others.


Feeling a hand on his back, Falarion's ears perked up temporarily, but he didn't look to see who was comforting him. His mind was elsewhere for now.


Hearing Laohu speaking up near him, Falarion absentmindedly glanced sideways at him, though his expression seemed...distant.


Falarion heard what Laohu was saying, though it hardly set in in his mind. All he could do in reply was sigh before resting his head on his good leg once more. This was going to be a long flight back to HQ.


@Flutterby @crucialstar


When they arrived at HQ, Manjano was immediately moved from the helicopter to the infirmary, with Falarion who soon was transferred onto his own stretcher as well.


After going through their own operations, Manjano and Falarion soon were in a private room of their own together. Both asleep and resting from their surgeries, Manjano's arm wrapped up and Falarion's foreleg wrapped up in an ironically red wrapping while Manjano's was the typical white.


The operations for each of them had taken a while and so the two were going to be out of it for perhaps another hour or two.


Both were connected to IVs, while Manjano was also connected to a blood pack, as he'd lost a lot of blood from his wound and the extensive bleeding that had occurred. Falarion had been lucky enough, though and he didn't require any extra blood.


Both looked considerably paler than usual, and Manjano looked far more peaceful than he usually ever looked while conscious.


@anyone interested
 
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Zoe looked around, nodding at Beth and Totus, raising her thumb for Leandra and grinning at Xiao. In that moment Eos started to snuggle with Zoe - he was so happy that she was all right, no matter how weak she was. He chuckled and smiled as he looked around with pride and gratitude, showing his emotions before he turned back to the girl.


" I shall buy one as soon as you get better. " he said, with a smile " You look battered, that catacomb mission must have been hard. "


Zoe frowned.


" Was a piece of cake. Were it not for the... incident it would have been a flawless victory. " she said, observing the stag " You yourself have some bruises too though - you had fun I presume? "


" I fought with a kangaroo. " Eos proclaimed and Zoe wanted to sit up in her bed in surprise but she hissed and fell back down. Her body was still weak and aching so she decided to stay still.


" Damn it! I told you I wanted to battle one! " she frowned again " Should have known that the cool, rare animals gonna go there where you are... "


Eos laughed.


" Well now you know. But rest for now, the others - Bael and Leandra to be more precise - ensured that you stay in one piece. When we reach the base the doctors will patch you up. "


" What do you mean? I am fine, let me go, I need to thank Beth... "


Eos shook his head.


" That I can not allow, not this time. Sleep now princess, rest. "


" Princess is your furry a... " Zoe could not finish it for she felt really exhausted and she just said back against her pillow, falling asleep - the side effects of her antidote for sure. Eos smiled at her then looked at Leandra with worried eyes. The girl was clearly unhappy with what had happened but he was uncertain why. The others seemed to comfort the girl so he decided not to intervene for now - they will have enough time when they are finally home.


----


" I will not swallow it. No chance. " Zoe protested.


" It is medicine! It will help your immune system recover faster, that poison did some nasty damage to you! " the doctor proclaimed, clearly annoyed.


" It smells like piss. " the girl replied with disgust on her face " It looks terrible. "


" It's taste is terrible as well, but you know what? Tough luck. " the doctor concluded and when Zoe opened her mouth to object he pushed the medicine in her mouth, forcing her to drink it. Zoe coughed and sent a deadly glare towards the leaving doctor but sighed in relief. Secretly she knew that it was for her own good but she did not want to admit it. It was then when Eos walked in and he smiled at her.


" How do you feel? " he asked.


" I live, but this medicine tastes really bad. " she said, forcing herself to get out of the bed. She had to use crutches to walk for her feet were too weak now, they were the primary victims of the paralytic poison. Getting the crutches in her hands and standing up she looked around.


" Well, I think we have slept for long enough. Show me the way to the others. "


" No way, you still need rest. Lay back and... "


" The doctors have already given me the painkillers, i should not scream and be my deathbed for a while. So let's cut that crap all right? "


Eos shook his head and sighed.


" At least wait for them to come and visit you. You are not the only one who got injured you know. "


" How on earth am I supposed to know that? " she pointed at the massive curtain concealing her bed " Can't see anything here. But if you say so... I suppose we can wait for some of them... "


She then sat back, clearly frustrated, and waited for the others. In truth she was really worried and hoped that the others fared better than she did...


@SilverFlight @crucialstar @Lioness075 @Flutterby @anyonewhowanttomeetus
 
Alec washed his hands for the third time and put on his white, ankle-length lab coat, prepping everything he would need when Xiao knocked on the door.


"Xiao! Hey, you seemed so uneasy about letting me help, I wasn't sure you were going to come."


He motioned to a small table where she could put the extra clothes and listened to her request seriously. "Hmm, I really can't imagine anyone could stitch their own back. Even if you could muscle through piercing yourself with the needle, there's a really good chance the wound will scar badly if its not done well."


He thought he understood her concerns. "I think I have a solution." He pulled a hospital gown off a hook on the wall and gave it to her.


"Don't worry, wear that and lie on the table. I won't see anything but your back. Promise."


As a show of his point he turned around to face the corner, waiting for her to change.


@crucialstar


Duik grinned as Ash showed up and walked causally into the cafeteria, waving at the hyena as he passed. Duik looked both ways down the corridor and jumped after him too.


"Dude, you just said like, all of the magic words! Whatever you make, make triple portions!" After stating this the hyena desperately wanted to help.


Just before he made to follow Ash however he heard Jimbo behind him.


"You bet it does! Ash's gonna make us food! Come on!"


He trotted over to a large stainless steel fridge and reared up to lean on it. He nimbly hooked one of his forepaws into the door hands and pulled it open.


"Lets see here; eggs, milk...some sort of soup...thing. Oh! Minced meat! Can't have a good chili without meat...can you, or can you? You're not a vegetarian like Alec are you?..Oh, sorry Jim...we can make a veggie one too. I might even try it." He stuck his tongue out at the gorilla in a playful manner.


"You know what this party calls for? Some tunes!"


He pulled out the launchpad he was carrying and set it gently in an unoccupied corner. it was a flat, square piece of plastic, its top set with an 8x8 grid of square buttons which were ringed with a line of rounded ones. Turning it on with a careful claw he then pulled out his laptop and set that up before stretching his forepaws in front of him. He nosed the top open and booted his mixer program, throwing both of his friends a grin before he began.


Duik thought for a moment, then began bobbing his head to an invisible tempo.

[media]
[/media]



He began with slow purposeful taps on the keyboard bringing the song to a quick pace and then slow again. Just before the song took a pause he flicked a few keys on his laptop, switching the booted music files and suddenly the sounds changed.


"Paschelbel's rock!" He laughed as the guitar cued in and from then on the hyena's paws were a blur, each claw hit its mark in perfect time. He had practiced for years to build up the dexterity in his short, stumpy paws, but now that he had he looked all the more impressive. The lights on the pad flashed their patterns and seemed to dance as he played.


His head moved with each note as the music flowed through him and he never stopped grinning, not until the last few notes of the song brought the entire thing to a close. Afterwards he stood up and bowed.


@Peaceswore @zCrookedz


Calista looked up from her place by Amber's side and saw the phoenix.


"You looking for something Fire Feathers?...why the long beak?. You don't have to worry about a reprimand from the higher ups. I made the call to rescue Agent Strong, this is my burden. I'll make sure you're not caught in the crosshairs." Calista has misinterpreted the phoenix' expression, but she was determined to protect her team.


@Lioness075
 
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Beth and Totus watched as the others dispursed from the chopper, both seeming to be frozen on the spot. They were only roused from whatever it was when the pilot and copilot exited the chopper. With a start, Beth headed toward the center of the base. She found a spot under the skylight and sat, Totus on her shoulder, and seemed to be lost in thought.


But in reality, their minds were blank, conciousnesses cozied up next to each other like a couple in front of a fireplace on a cold night. They werent used to being separated.


Neither had any idea of how long they sat there, but suddenly, Beth's stomach growled. Totus chuckled, and without a word to each other, they decided to head to the cafeteria.


They slipped into the kitchen and were greeted by an odd group who apparently also decided to cook some food.


"I sure hope they were planning on sharing," Totus grumbled, his early opinion of Ash making him a tad hesitant to carry out the food idea.


Beth rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at him, stepping into the kitchen quietly. She let Totus off next to Duik, who was already mixing some music, and went to the fridge.


"What were we planning on making?" She called, as she looked at what was stored.


@Peaceswore @SilverFlight @zCrookedz
 
Jimbo cocked his head at Duik and his excitement as Ash mentioned the chili and they headed off towards wherever they were going. Jimbo shrugged and followed behind them listening to Duik's excitment over the chili. As they entered the kitchen Jimbo found himself a seat and watched as Duik continued to talk about the Chili. When he began talking about being a vegetarian, Jimbo folded his massive hairy arms over his chest, and raised an eyebrow to the Hyena.


"And just who said I was a vegitarian? Actually back at home, mom makes a pretty good burger out of bug larva she gets from the store. "


Jimbo didn't catch it at first, but after he said it he realised how that might have sounded a bit strange with him addressing Mrs. Sinclair as Mom. Force of habit from years of living with his family, so he didn't give it to much of a second thought before he leaned back in his seat as Duik began to set his music up.


At the sound of the classic arcade sounding beeps and boops, Jimbo cracked a smile at the Hyena. But when the guitar began to play, Jimbo's eyes widened at the speed of the Hyena's paws and he even found that one of his back feet had released the chair he was seated in and was furiously bouncing to the beat of the song. When the song returned to the beeping noise's, Jimbo let his foot rest again and gave Duik an approving nod.


"Good grief giggles, I can't believe someone without thumbs could make music like that. I give you 4 thumbs up."


Jimbo lifted his feet from the seat and his hands as he folded his fingers and toes in to give Duik for protruding thumbs and a smile.


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore


Simon stood outside the door for a little bit longer watching Calista and Amber for a time. When he saw Calista wake up and begin talking to Luness, Simon ducked away from the window leaning on the doors frame. He overheard Calista talking about what kind of trouble they were in for breaking orders and going after Amber. Simon didn't want Calista from taking all the blame, after all Simon had planned on going after Amber since the second he found out they were going to Paris. His encouragement of rescuing Amber surely would not go without being punished either. He instantly thought of going and finding Darcy and talking it out, maybe he could take the brunt of his wrath and maybe it wouldn't be so bad for the rest of the group.


Simon pushed off the door frame and away from the door as he made his decision and headed out of the medical wing. Once he made it back out to the main hub, Simon scratched his head as to where he would find Darcy. He figure he would be in the more restricted section, which would require some sort of identification to get him there. That's when it dawned on him, he had left his wallet and everything in it in his gym bag. Which was still sitting on the floor of the free weight's room. Simon sighed and bounced his palm off his forehead as he turned back towards the hall leading to the gym.


He entered back into the gym in disbelief that he had forgotten his bag. Of course, this wasn't the first time he had done it but it still was annoying that he had forgotten. He reached the weight room and found his bag and threw it over his shoulder. As he headed back for the exit to the gym, the sound of thwacks against a punching bag made him look up before leaving. There he saw Leandra wailing on a punching bag pretty heavily, with the obvious expression of someone releasing stress. Simon smiled as he head towards the girl and the punching bag. She had a good basic form, even using some martial arts styles Simon was not familiar with. Without thinking about the situation, or what it might do to Leandra in her given state, Simon walked up behind Leandra watching her throw her punches.


"Drop your hips, it will keep you grounded and make your punches more powerful and balance you better."


@Lioness075
 

Scars? Thinking on her options, Xiao Hui wondered if that would be a good idea for her to let her wound become worser than it looks and scar the symbol of her family on her back. She loved her family, especially when her Father was the only blood-related person she had left. . However, she knew. . he was beyond angry with it. . What she done was worse than betrayal. . "I didn't want you to think I stood you up. But seeing how much preparation you did. . it seemed you knew I was coming." She grinned lightly, looking around his handiwork for emphasis. It was obvious Alec didn't care for his wounds since now, he was worried about hers being treated correctly. Taking the gown from his hand, Xiao Hui smiled softly, "Thank you." She murmured, though it seemed Alec wasn't quite understanding what she was getting at. Perhaps. . this. . beating around the bush, as they call it, wasn't working out for her. Subtlety wasn't her strong suit and she knew she needed more work on it. Or perhaps. . being a more convincing liar, however, something inside her wanted her to not lie. She didn't want to lose Alec's trust, in fact, it had been awhile since she was seen as a comrade than the leader, barking out orders. Looking at the gown and then at Alec's consideration of her, she sighed, ruffling her hair as she took out her hair from it's hold in the hair tie, as her hair sweeped down, letting her long hair sway down her frame. "A solution?" She asked out-loud as she walked over to Alec and gently placed a hand on his shoulder, tip-toey. "Alec," she began slowly, "I can't let you stitch my wounds. That's the problem . . you can't see my back. No matter what." She spoke in a dire tone, hoping there was another way for her to get her wounds stitched. Racking through her brains, Xiao Hui thought of something that would make Alec reconsider looking at her back, much less the wound, "It's. . my back . . if you look at it, I'm afraid you won't be able to turn back once you see it. " Xiao Hui took her hand off Alec's shoulder as she walked around to face him, looking up at him, "There has to be another way. Perhaps, blind-folded?" She asked hopefully, at the same time she spoke lowly with a whisper, "it's for your own safety."


Finally being clean and pristine, Laohu walked out of the room, glad to get rid of the dried blood on his fur, liking his fur silky and shiny. He heard noises in the cafeteria as he made his way over, but seeing the crowd, Laohu didn't want to step in, intruding. Laohu didn't see Eos among the crowd, only Duirk as he was talking to Fie about something along with Ash and Beth. Moving along, he decided to go and find the white stag and his partner: Zoe. Seeing Eos in such a state, he couldn't quite forget the frantic look that crossed the wise creature's face. It plagued his mind as he remembered the look and the feeling that transpassed in that moment. The feeling of being useless and the feeling of losing your loved one. Laohu never wanted to feel that sense of hopelessness. How Calista was able to keep herself together, he didn't know, but he knew, if. . if he lost Hui all of a sudden, he would turn feral. And that scared him the most. He even almost lose his cool during the mission. It was way too close for comfort. Laohu had an aching feeling, wanting to be next to Zoe and Eos, seeing their reactions and their bond together once more. Heading towards the medical station, Laohu peered in seeing Zoe and Eos. Opening the door slowly, Laohu walked in, walking towards Eos and Zoe. "Looks like our little warrior is awake now, isn't she?" He spoke lowly, not wanting to speak too loudly. "How are you faring, Zoe? And you, Eos? Have you eaten yet?"




@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios
​
 
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Alec was utterly confused. She couldn't let him stitch her back? She was close to him now, her long raven hair cascading down behind her, a hand resting on his shoulder and he could feel his heartbeat quicken. It didn't make sense. His mind sifted through reasons why and his thoughts were apparent on his face. Finally he seemed to reach a conclusion and gently took hold of the hand that she had taken from his shoulder.


"I think you might have a better time doing it yourself then blindfolding me...Xiao." He grew a bit more serious. "Whatever I see, well...I don't want to turn away. Not if it means turning away from you. I don't abandon my friends. Ever. Just ask Duik." He offered her a gentle smile. "'Others may see us differently than we see ourselves'...isn't that what you told me back in Paris?" That was a memory he would never forget; the lights and music appeared in his mind as he recalled Xiao asking him to dance. "Well Xiao, I've already accepted who you are, I don't think anything you could show me would change that."


A bit of the professional tone slipped back into his voice as he went to pull a dose of local anesthesia into a syringe. "The only way to prevent infection or scarring is if its stitched by a medical practitioner. It took me a bit of arguing for the staff here to let me do it." He came back and gestured toward the table. "I'm not turning back. Not from the Watch, and not from you. Xiao...let me help...please?"


@crucialstar





"Hey! Beth and birdman! Welcome to our kitchen party of deliciousness. Its Chilidogs and sloppy joes! I can't wait!" Duik ended the sentence with a joyful whimper.


Duik paused as Jimbo mentioned 'Mom' and his eyes grew wide. "You knew you mother?" Duik assumed he had meant his biological mother. It was not a comfortable topic for many bonded animals, the bonding process only happened to one individual at a time and there were a lot of animals whose parents were not bonded at all. Duik had been taken (he had been told) from a zoo as a pup. His parents likely never bonded to anyone, and were probably gone.


@zCrookedz @Flutterby @Peaceswore
 
Luness flew over and landed beside Calista before tilting her head at her 'long beak' expression. She'd never heard that before. What did that mean?


Deciding to not linger on a simple expression, Luness shook her head before responding, "No, dear. I'm not fretting about the reprimands for whatever mistakes we made. I was actually wondering where the captured bad guy was. I wanted to follow his interrogation."


While she was still uncertain of it, Luness was considering even joining in the interrogation. She had good reason to think that being interrogated by a mythical creature would add some severity to the interrogation overall.


Glancing over at Strong's sleeping form, Luness quickly followed up her discussion with some sympathy, "Strong will recover swiftly here, dear. These doctors and nurses know what they're doing."


@SilverFlight


As Leandra had continued punching at the bag, her mind had gone elsewhere, her eyes seeing past memories and plenty of people she hated then and still hated now.


As she punched harder and harder, Leandra's expression became tenser, until Simon suddenly broke her concentration upon appearing behind her and speaking.


Surprised, Leandra's eyes widened, as her punch skimmed the bag, throwing her entirely off-balanced and causing her to stumble forward. As she stumbled forward, the bag shifted to the side before shifting back and hitting Leandra in the side. Since she was already off-balance, Leandra ended up stumbling to the side before falling down entirely.


Letting out a surprised yelp, Leandra then quickly scrambled back to her feet, wincing a bit when she used her sore hands to stand up.


Turning around and giving Simon a rather childish glare with her arms crossed over her chest, Leandra retorted sarcastically, "Gee, thanks, Simon."


After a moment or two passed, Leandra realized how rude she'd just sounded and let out a frustrated side before letting her arms fall to her sides.


"Sorry, Simon. I...I didn't mean to snap at you like that. It's, um, it's been a long day for me, as I'm sure it's been for you as well."


@zCrookedz
 
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