Fantasy Code FERAL

[andujarprime]

Spoiler

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/redsuit.jpg.49470b32a4fbab2654dc80b4563fde64.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="115322" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/redsuit.jpg.49470b32a4fbab2654dc80b4563fde64.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>

Rin let out a low sigh. Guess they wouldn’t all have aliases. Let’s hope nothing goes wrong. He was going to make sure he had a talk with everyone once the mission was over. These recruits still had more to learn. He could tell the others were using real names as well over the comms. No matter, on to the current issue. “Min anisycheite. Den ascholeitai me ta skoupidia.” (Don’t worry. I don’t deal with trash.) He let out his best smile then, and took a drink from Xiao then handed it over to Ash. “Congratulations. You've bought yourself another night pretty boy!” He took another drink and placed it on a coaster at the edge of the table before Maximilion, and took another for himself. He reached behind him and pulled a random woman who was looking on and clapping He handed her a drink and placed her beside Xiao. “Here dear, you should be enjoying your night too. Maylee, be good to this one tonight.” He said to Xiao cheerily as he took a sip of his drink. “Tell Alec I’m sorry, just play along.” He thought to Haku. Suddenly with his free hand he pulled Alec close to him, holding him by the waist. “Come Dante, it appears our friend will live to party another night!!!” He Said aloud raising a glass to Ash. “Sygnomi. Den snak apopse.” (Sorry. No snack tonight.) He said jokingly before taking another sip. He looked around, they were pretty isolated from the huge crowd of onlookers. This wasn't necessarily new to him. But it probably was for the others. For their sake, he hoped Alec could play along. He seemed to fit in with the high end of society. Almost as if he belonged. For Rin, it was almost second nature. Like being back at home with his mother and her company friends. He hated them, what they represented, but it was a part of him growing up. For a time anyway.

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Haku watched the agents perform. Putting on an air of disinterest. “Alec, he’s sorry. Don’t freak out.” He whispered to Alec, seconds before Rin pulled him in close. Haku took the time to peep down at the croc. 5ft, pretty strong. Nasty looking bugger, its face had a few noticeable scars. She sniffed the air, her tongue darting in and out in Maximilion’s direction. As the dossier said, the croc wasn’t his companion. He had a different smell about him, beneath the cologne and alcohol. She smelled the rat on him. She would be able to recognize it from now on. She made sure not to look uncomfortable on Alec. She snuggled a little closer to him instead. She glanced a look at the others. Everyone seemed to be playing their part well. "We only needed one person to get him comfortable. With the spotlight on three of them, and eliminating two. He will focus on Ash, unless he likes to take things that aren't his. Then good luck to you Alec." she whispered to him with a chuckle of amusement. She eyed the drinks carefully then, wishing she could have a taste. But it was all too unusual for a snake of any kind to be interested in alcohol. She kept her focus on the small gathering at the roulette table. The others should have been able to hear Haku on their comms. Bringing them in on Rin's formulating plan, allowing them to do what they can to steer it in that direction.


@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @Peaceswore @crucialstar @Epiphany @zCrookedz (for Max.) @Bolts @Lioness075

 

[SilverFlight]

"Charmed." Marie-Lynn said with interest. She watched the girls wander to the bar out of the corner of her eye. They certainly didn't look like they got along too well. It was another curiosity that amused her.


When Beth came to sit Marie-Lynn listened as she began gushing about the place, the people and making subtle inquiries into her business. The wealthy business woman seemed pleased with the praise, but the last thing Beth said caught her attention.


"And what 'position' would that be?" Marie-Lynn was generally curious now. The display of the others and Beth herself made it obvious to assume, but the details evaded her and that made her want to know them even more.


"What a darling companion you have." She waved a delicate hand towards Falarion. "Such a rare species. I truly wonder how you were able to acquire such a species for the bonding. Tell me, how did you do it?"


@TheBOOKWORMgal @pretty much everyone


((Max team post coming soon.))

 

[zCrookedz]

Spoiler

Simon:


Simon shifted in his chair a bit as he listened to Beth speak. The girl had changed drastically from the quite girl he had come to know since they all started. It was a side of Beth that was absolutely enthralling and she played it so naturally, it was hard to imagine it was just an act. The confidence in her act made Simon feel a bit less tense about the serpent that had emerged from under the table. Simon gave Beth a humorous smile after she spoke of Marie-Lynn's career bringing her to China. When Marie-Lynn began to ask questions of her own Simon let Beth answer the first, a bit curious himself what she had ment by position. But the second he jumped on to try and get more on Marie-Lynn's good side.


"That would be from me of course. I deal in, what you might call, animal retrieval. Sometimes more, private, parties seek out my skills to acquire special animals for bonding, zoo's, circus's, etcetera. Not always the most "legal" operation, but the money is too good to pass up. The little wolf there I caught on a trip to Brazil some time back and brought back for bonding. When Beth here was bonded, she said she wanted to see the world so I invited her along. "


The idea of people who would go and track down and hunt animals let Simon with a bit of a bitter aftertaste after he made up the story. But it was a dirty, and sometimes pretty illegal, profession and he thought it might just help to show Marie-Lynn a darker side to the small group.


@SilverFlight @Flutterby @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios @Sleipnir


---------------------


Max:


Maximillian raised an eyebrow as the group that approached began chattering to themselves and him. He became even more surprised when the one person in the group who looked like a local began speaking to him in Greek. This group might have some interesting company yet.


As the waiter arrived with the drink that Max had waved at him, the man named William reached over and set a drink down before him. He glanced over the drink a bit inspecting its contents and lifting the drink up to smell the alcohol. He let the drink rest about chest height for a moment. No one would ever suspect that the little rat coiled in his pocket was sniffing the drink for anything undesirable in the concoction. After a few seconds, a quick thought from his hidden companion, Max lifted the drink and drained its contents eagerly. He may not know the people, but he was not about to pass up a free drink.


He handed over the drink to the waiter as he brought his other, and leaned back in his chair now turned ever so slightly towards the group of rowdy partygoers. The young Asian man had peaked his interest on a social level, and Max was very curious about him now.


"Milás kalá. It's not often that I would meet someone so far from the homeland that speaks Greek. Especially not someone from this country. Very interesting indeed."


Usually, Max wouldn't give someone like William a second glance, Ash was much more to his personal taste. But this one who was now holding Dante by the waste was beginning to grow on Max. Beauty can only get you so far after all.


The crocodile shifted a bit under Max's feet. He opened his large mouth and made a hissing noise before slowly closing it and returned to his docile position.


Max looked down at the croc, before he reached for another large stack of chips and slid it forward.


"100 on Red 12."


He lifted his drink to his lips once more and made the decision to be a bit more sociable. Setting the drink down he but on a bit more charming smile towards the group.


"Your group all together is very.....colorful. Are you all here to celebrate the new year?"


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore @andujarprime @crucialstar @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios


----------------------


Jimbo:


While Manjano contemplated the thought of the club that Jimbo had purposed, Jimbo glanced sideways and noticed a side table of refreshments that had been set out for the performers. He snatched a bottle of water and began opened it up to drink. As he did, Duik began and Jimbo had to admit, Duik had more talent for DJing in one paw than most musician's had in their entire bodies. The mix he played was simply amazing and the response from the crowd was nothing short or wet-you-pants excitement.


Jimbo smirked at Duik before he heard his opportunity arrive. The moment of emotion that flashed across Jean's eye was all Jimbo need to tell him that he had got the man's attention. Not it was time to do something a little drastic. As Jean began to talk, Jimbo tilted the bottle of water and began to fill his mouth with the water. As soon as Jean mentioned being the owner, Jimbo made a coughing motion and slapped his chest as if he was coughing.


Water.....went......everywhere. Jimbo tried his best to aim for Jean specifically without it looking too much like it was on purpose, but he aimed for the glasses and Jeans face. Jimbo coughed and coughed, cause despite his act he had actually gotten water in the wrong pipe during the display and he looked up with a look of shock. He tried his best to speak, but the coughing was hard to talk through.


"Cough......I am...cough.....so.....sory.....sir. Cough Cough Cough."


Jimbo did not expect to be in the club much longer after the fit. But maybe it would get them closer to getting the glasses, and getting Manjano out of a uncomfortable place like the club.


@Lioness075 @SilverFlight @Kharmin @Epiphany @Bolts

 

[DawnAntalios]

Spoiler

For a moment after Leandra's ridiculous reluctance to play along Zoe's blood started to boil. She did not like this either, nor did she want to act like a little bunny girl for Simon... but what the other girl failed to realize that in order to keep up a perfect disguise one must not expose herself suddenly - it seemed that she had taken on the role of the audacious girl and she had to keep her disguise intact. Frowning at Lea she shook her head.


" Your reluctance of cooperating is ridiculous, especially in a situation like this. " she said, annoyed " Do you think I enjoy my role more than you? That I try to concentrate on the bigger picture instead of just worrying about a little single detail? If you want to get on the good side of someone - especially if that person is an important one - you need to make sacrifices - and move out of your comfort zone, you know. "


She turned to Cedar and nodded at him with a thankful look. She was uncertain what did they want to do about the snake but she accepted that right now there was no way of actually handling that creature - which was frustrating. Her attention wandered to the right of her as one of the drinks served for them was already ready. She grabbed it and quickly drank it up, snapping at the barkeeper.


" One more of this please... we plan to have a fun night tonight! "


The bartender nodded and got to work again as Zoe - now a bit calmer - turned to her companions. As she pondered at the recent events she caught the watchful eye of Marie-Lynn watching them. It appeared that the woman had actually interest in the bickering they had... smiling at these developments Zoe nodded to herself - the feud they had just now was no longer a liability... but rather a chance to blend in even more. She was fully aware that among multiple lovers fights like these were but natural - so she might could turn this to their advantage.


" Fine, whatever, have it your way. " she told Leandra, turning towards the bartender " What do you mean Cedar can't have a drink! My baby-boo deserves as much care as anyone else here! " she said, yelling at the bartender whose face was now as white as a ghist. Grabbing the drinks readied for them she looked down at Cedar.


" Come, little bear, let's leave - Simon and the others are very thirsty! "


With that she walked up back to the little group, hoping that Leandra would finally play along this time. With a smile sweeter than honey she put down all the ordered drinks to the people and she listened in on the conversation. They were talking about Falarion as she could guess it and Simon made up a story which implied that he was actually snatched up somewhere. Zoe's eyes started to glint as she let out a small chuckle.


" Have you seen this bear yet, Miss Marie-Lynn? " she asked with glee " This beautiful little darling took a lot of effort to capture - but Simon, oh dearest Simon! He can do absolutely anything! " she leaned closer, winking " He knew that a fluffy teddy bear would capture my heart - and after promising me a chance to see the world... how could one resist such an offer? " she looked at Simon and smiled " And such a handsome gentleman for that matter... "


Sipping her drink she chuckled playfully.


" Ahh, hits the spot! " she once again turned towards Marie-Lynn " Speaking of beautiful companions - yours is extremely gorgeous, Miss Lynn! " she exclaimed, trying to conceal her disgust as she uttered those words " Where have you found such a delightful company like him? "


@SilverFlight @Flutterby @Lioness075 @zCrookedz @Sleipnir

 

[SilverFlight]

Spoiler

An elegant black, fitted tuxedo, complete with a red silk vest and bowtie. A snake is embroidered one one shoulder and drapes down the side of the jacket. The thread used to create the work of art is also black and glints only when light hits it at a certain angle, making it invisible at any other view. Embroidered snakes also coil on each cuff, which are done up with silver links. His hair is been slicked back, though some renegade strands still fall into his face and the majority is tied into a small rat tail behind his head. He is also wearing contact that have turned his eyes from hazel into a deep, jade green.


Alec's heart swelled with pride as he heard Duik's masterful work. It was almost enough to distract him from the fact that Rin had just pushed another woman up to Xiao. Before he even had a chance to ask the question in his head he felt a hand about his waist and was suddenly being drawn much too close to another man.


He heard Haku's apology, but that didn't stop Alec's eyes from nearly bugging out of his head. It took all his inner strength not to jump clear of the entire charade. He gave Rin a shaky smile and tried not to make it look too much like a glare of certain death.


He could just hear Ash's uncontrollable laughter in his head as he watched the scene, which did nothing to improve his mood.


Alec could feel the target's eyes on him and Rin. Did he expect something to happen? Then the thought occurred to him. This guy was a slave trader. He was the lowest of the low, helping more low creatures do terrible things. They had to be stopped. That was why they were there. That was why they were doing this. The thoughts seemed to give him a bit of resolve. They were playing it this way? Fine. He could do this. Alec took in a slow breath and closed his eyes. When they opened again they fixed Rin with a flirtatious gaze.


"Oh sweetheart." He said with a hint of chagrin, taking Rin's hand gently from around his waist and handing it back. "If only you could afford me."


Alec could feel the cold sweat on the back of his neck. What the hell was he doing? Making himself something unattainable, something expensive, perhaps in that he may have become desirable? Oh God...


His jade eyes flickered towards their target, trying to glean any response, while at the same time creating the faint illusion of interest.


@Peaceswore @andujarprime @crucialstar @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios @zCrookedz

 

[Lioness075]

Leandra's eyes widened the minute Zoe's voice raised in volume and intensity. Her heart pounded while she had the expression of someone who'd just been slapped. Ridiculous? Leandra had handled the little situation very calmly and she doubted Marie had even noticed her small complaint! What was wrong with Zoe?


And now Zoe was comparing Leandra to herself? Leandra never acted like she was above the damn woman, she only requested that Zoe not touch her again like that, why was she overreacting like this?


At the mention of moving out of her comfort zone, Leandra blinked in surprise and even lurched back slightly, yet again as if she'd been slapped. She'd moved out of her comfort zone when she'd taken Simon's arm and led him to Marie's table! Was Zoe blind to that when it had happened?


When Zoe nodded at Cedar, Leandra had no idea what she was thinking, but she was now struggling to regain her composure, which had just been completely shot. Jesus, was Zoe for real?


When Zoe hurriedly drank one of the prepared drinks, Leandra furrowed her brows while she continued to feel incredibly unsettled and uncomfortable. Zoe was her teammate, but she was acting like Leandra was the enemy now. This was just utterly confusing and Leandra had no idea how to even react in the moment.


Seeing Zoe smiling to herself, Leandra bit her lip in anticipation of whatever she was planning to do next. At this point, Leandra didn't even really know what to expect from Zoe.


When Zoe said to have it her way and then began complaining about Cedar not getting his own drink, Leandra furrowed her brows again, as she only felt further confused. Have it your way? Leandra hadn't even responded to Zoe yet and now she was irate about Cedar not getting his own drink, though the bear hadn't even asked for anything as of yet. This felt like it was just getting out of hand now.


When Zoe stormed off with the drinks, Leandra could only absentmindedly watch her for a moment before turning to face the bar so she could finally recollect her thoughts and her composure. In the spur of the moment, Leandra had completely missed Marie's interest in their bickering and so she continued to remain confused as to why Zoe had acted that way.


Sighing after a moment, Leandra then realized she needed to rejoin the group before Marie grew suspicious of her absence. Ugh, this was absolutely exhausting. She was definitely going to need a nice, fresh hot chocolate once this was all over. And a lot of peace and quiet. Or maybe just some music.


Speaking of, Leandra overheard some new DJ doing his thing and glanced back at the stage area to see Duik doing his thing. With a small smile on her face upon seeing him having so much fun, Leandra inhaled deeply before calling over the bartender. Time to refocus.


"Hey, get me a virgin pina colada, now!"


Regaining her confidence, Leandra anxiously waited for her non-alcoholic, but hopefully looked alcoholic, drink before snatching it up and sipping some of it. Not usually her kinda drink, but she'd no doubt have a bad reaction to the actual drinks if she tried one so this way she could keep up the alias and all.


With a deep breath and glance at Laohu to make sure he was doing all right, Leandra then walked back up to the group and as casually as ever slipped past Zoe before sitting beside Simon with a wink and smile in Zoe's direction.


It had taken Leandra a moment or two to figure out what Zoe had been up to down there, but she'd finally figured out the whole fighting thing. Or she, at least, assumed that Zoe had been pretend fighting with her. She definitely hoped so.


Anyways, Leandra figured that sitting beside Simon and kinda acting like he was hers now might be a good way to incite Zoe again. It did seem like Marie would be the type to enjoy stupid things like this.


@zCrookedz @DawnAntalios @Sleipnir @Flutterby @SilverFlight @Peaceswore


~~~~~


Jean-Marc glanced in the direction of the stage when Duik opened up. Hearing the uncertainty in the hyena's voice brought a frown to Jean-Marc's face, as he wondered how the hyena could be making any profit if he had a shaky voice like that.


Yet, just before he could do anything about it or even say anything, the hyena jumped into his performance and soon had the crowd on their feet and excited.


Jean-Marc's frown quickly changed to a very slight smile, as he relaxed and said, "Well, at least, someone here knows how to do their job properly. That hyena is definitely going to find some bonus in his pay after tonight."


Yet, not a moment too soon after Jean-Marc had relaxed, Jimbo seemed to have a coughing fit...which ended up with him sputtering water all over Jean-Marc and even onto his face!


With hardly a change of expression, Jean-Marc's eyes became livid (though it was a bit hard to tell with his eye color contacts that made his eyes pitch black), and his subtle smile instantly disappeared, as he shouted, "Guards! Take this buffoon and his companion out of this establishment now!"


Eyes wide at what Jimbo had just done to their target, Manjano instantly held up his arms in a defensive manner, only for a guard to grab them and twist them behind his back. Not a moment too soon after that, three guards walked up to Jimbo and gestured at the exit before waiting for him to follow after Manjano, who was already being pushed in the direction of the exit.


Scowling sideways at Jimbo, Manjano was about to say something to him only to stop when he looked back to see Jean-Marc taking off his glasses to wipe his face. Ah, an opportunity.


Keeping his scowl to keep up the irritated facade, Manjano shook his head at Jimbo as if he were displeased with him before he was promptly shoved right out of the exit with Jimbo not too long after.


Stumbling a bit before regaining his balance, Manjano then turned around to face the club with a scowl before he adjusted his leather jacket a bit. Luckily, the guards had already shut the doors in the partners' faces.


Relaxing once the guards were gone, Manjano then glanced sideways at Jimbo and said, "Nice idea."


Now, they could only hope it'd work inside.


@zCrookedz @Kharmin @Bolts @Flutterby @Sleipnir @Bookworm0492


Back behind stage, Jean-Marc had several assistants at his side in a flash, one handing him a towel to dry his face with while the others hurriedly patted his clothes somewhat dry so as to hopefully avoid his attire being completely ruined.


Scowling, Jean-Marc waved his hand at the group before him before saying, "All of you, back off. I don't need anymore surprises like this."


Irate, Jean-Marc shoved his glasses in the hands of one of his assistants before saying loudly, "Take those to the nearest tech and have them clean it up and make sure nothing was damaged, now!"


The assistant's eyes widened, as she hurriedly ran around Jean-Marc and through a door off to the side. If anyone wanted to make break after her to get the glasses, it was sure to be an option now.


Turning away from the group, Jean-Marc said with a dismissive wave of his hand, "Nobody else do anything stupid. I'll be back shortly."


After that incident, Jean-Marc had to change and so he'd probably be gone for a few minutes before returning. Now that he didn't have his glasses for the time being, if the group waited for him to return then he'd surely pay more attention to what anyone was saying.


@SilverFlight @Bolts @Kharmin @Bookworm0492 @Flutterby @Sleipnir

 

[Peaceswore]

Spoiler

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/asian-men-fashion-japan-style-rugged-preppy.jpeg.jpg.b35e81c3dc20bb21d207e033d28b9b37.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="115397" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/asian-men-fashion-japan-style-rugged-preppy.jpeg.jpg.b35e81c3dc20bb21d207e033d28b9b37.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p> He also dyed his hair white and has silver contacts for his eyes. The gloves are white, the jacket is black with a white flower and leaf pattern on the side that shimmers a bit in the light. The pants are also black, on the left leg is a white almost silver dragon that is wrapped around going a bit past his knee. The shoes are steel toed and black as well with a white monkey climbing a decorative tree on the side of each boot facing outward, the monkey no bigger than three inches. The scarf is white with a mixture of red along it as well while the shirt remains white


Ash couldn't speak Greek, but he didn't have to in order for him to figure out the man was saying some sort of insult, that smirk on his face said it all after all. Upon hearing his real name being used Ash said nothing, but truly he disliked it quite a bit, this was a high profile target after all and they weren't sent to capture him. If something happened and his name was leaked, this didn't only put risk on him but his family as well, something he planned on avoiding. He kept his charming smile as he looked at the game and seeing it land on his number he only grinned as if he knew that would happen. "Ah I'm not so sure about that good sir." He said in a cool voice as he collected his winnings. "But the night is still young so lady luck may grace your side yet!" His silver eyes lingered on the game before he moved them to connect with Max's, for just a brief moment, long enough for him to gather more details on the mans features and he must say this guy certainly was his taste... If he didn't make a living selling people that is.


When he looked away his eyes wandered to the glass that was placed in front of him and he made no attempts or even showed any interest in wanting it. Instead he pushed the glass away from him and looked at the roulette board once more. "120, on... 22 black." He said calmly as he pushed the pile of chips onto the said number. He kept his eyes on the board his smirk on his face and a hand on his pocket while the other hand rested on the table which he leaned on just a bit so the light from above would shine on him ever so subtly to give him a nicer glow that complimented Luness as well. "....Lun, you know I don't like strangers hearing that nickname, hahah. Some times you are too protective and worried for me." He took a brief moment to look up at the phoenix with a kind smile, now speaking as if it were only them, ,though Max could easily hear his words. "If it makes you feel better I'll tell our dear friend here my first name and if he's lucky enough my last name may slip out." Once those words were said he looked at the game once again before looking at Max from the corner of his eyes, not bothering to turn his head. "You may call me Kazimir." he said his words laced with pride as if this name was of great importance.


When he was asked about the group he couldn't help but keep his smirk as he waited for the dealer to make the spin. "You are a curious one aren't you? I was kind enough to inform you of my name yet you won't grace my ears with yours? I don't care in telling a man who's name I don't know the fun... Activities~ I have planned for my group~."


@zCrookedz @Lioness075 @SilverFlight @andujarprime @DawnAntalios @Epiphany @crucialstar @Bolts

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/58bcfec1ffeeea550df9ddb4c477bf8d.jpg.4e68a8cc6a48b12f39fec8101542368d.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="115398" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_03/58bcfec1ffeeea550df9ddb4c477bf8d.jpg.4e68a8cc6a48b12f39fec8101542368d.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>

Fie remained on Simon's shoulder through it all and soon found himself getting curious about all the noise going on around him and the games but most of all the flashy items that were on full display of almost everyone's body. Especially that lady. There were so many beautiful gems just asking to be....examined that Fie was starting to get hypnotized by them. He was quiet, something that is never...and I mean never a good sign.


After a bit Fie ended up hopping off of Simon's shoulder and he gracefully landed on the table a foot away from the women. Standing on all fours his eyes gleaming he started to move up to her a bit. "So pretty." He said softly as he looked at the women as if complimenting her (though to Fie the women was meh...he preferred monkeys much more chipper). "How do you have so many on you without falling? Or strangling you? Or ripping your ears off? They are really shiny two.... Don't pigeons or birds try to snatch them away from you? They look like they carry the light from the sun...." He asked now sitting on the table his eyes still lingering on the jewels that graced the women.


@SilverFlight @zCrookedz @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Lioness075 @Sleipnir @Flutterby

 

[Bolts]

Spoiler

with red scarf and black jeans

Barry looked up at the mess that was happening. Jumbo spitting water, while clever, could have out a lot of risk to the group. If not the group, then a very important piece of the mission. It would be much harder to get information of those glasses are not working. Barry kept his face composed but internally he was trying to figure out what to do next. Seeing the glasses go out with a woman while Jean-Marc was being distracted by his team, Barry felt someone should try their best to grab them. He walked over to Raven and Julia while writing in his book. You two should grab those glasses somehow. I need to stay here since I'm paired with Duik. I'll cover for you while I wait for this guy. Maybe I can get some info out of him while you work on the glasses.





He watched as Jean-Marc left the area. He hoped the others would possibly follow his request. It's not like he was the leader or anything. It just made sense to him if they go rather than him. Julia could have just gone and partied while Raven was checking out some suspicious behavior. Barry was just stuck for the moment from his pairing. While he was waiting, he couldn't help but enjoy the music Duik was playing. The guy had a knack for music. A small smile formed on his face. If he was Duik's real partner, then he definitely would have been more proud. The Alec guy seemed good though. He obviously cared for Duik from his display with the mission briefing. Perhaps they had one mental or emotional connection that helped set eachother at ease. That was something Barry and BB still needed to work on. Being away from eachtoher did have its other sacrifices. They have slowly built their relationship back up. It was only a matter of time. He wondered what BB's reaction would be at 'hearing' his voice in her head. A moment later his eyes widened and he facepalmed. [god, if that happens I will never hear myself think. She'll be talking forever.] he thought to himself gleefully. It was funny to think about.





@TheBOOKWORMgal

 

[Flutterby]

​

Spoiler

Dress:

Hair:

Eyes:

Beth's hair was dyed to a shade of brown and pulled back into a complicated style she will never even try to replicate. She's wearing a red and white dress with red heels, and a dramatic rose gold eye look with bright red lipstick to match her dress.



Beth did not seem surprised by Marie-Lynn's question in the slightest. In fact, she smiled pleasantly and laughed lightly.


"Well, officially I am one of Simon's assistants." She brushed a lock of hair that had come loose behind her ear and glanced toward the bar. "As are they. But, to be perfectly frank, we are in the human companionship business. Not everyone in our.. industry.. has such a glamorous placement, or one nearly as secure and permanent, so we certainly are the lucky ones."


Beth could feel the topic slipping closer to personal discomfort, but she kept her false confidence up. Outwardly, she looked entirely comfortable chatting about her "job."


"In short, we travel with our Simon as he works, to make sure his every need is met," She directed a sly smirk at Simon before continuing, "and he makes sure ours are met as well, of course. Obviously, we can't go along while he is trapping, it is rather dangerous, but we are there at the end of each stressful day to take care of him in whatever exotic place he is. It is a wonderful arrangement," She paused and looked back at Marie-Lynn with a thoughtful expression, "But it does lack the kind of independence that a woman dreams of."


This time, when she looked at Simon, it appeared that she was nervous that she had crossed a line. The slip of her sultry, confident demeanor seemed swift, but Beth let the look show for long enough so that it would be noticeable. And then, she was back to being the perfect companion.


She listened to Simon speak, and added, "I was quite young when I came to Simon, but when I bonded with Falarion, I knew he would be the best.. employer I could ever hope for." She gave Simon another one of those adoring smiles as Zoe came bounding up with the drinks. She took one readily and sipped it. Alcohol was one of her least favorite things, but she had to continue to play the part. Absently, she reached over and gave Falarion a rub behind the ears.


@SilverFlight @zCrookedz @DawnAntalios @Lioness075

 

[Kharmin]

Raven/Kitsune


Raven cast a trained gaze across the assembled guests in the club as they waited for the music to start. The natives are restless, she thought, but overall they seemed well in control of themselves. She didn't see any imminent threats to her or the rest of her small band, but maintained her vigilance nonetheless.


At her side, Kitsune harrumphed at the indignity of his sparring with their mark. "You'd think that he would have been happier having someone offer to help," he said.


Raven gave a slight snort of derision. "Oh, you're such the charmer," she retorted as her eyes narrowed on a young man smartly dressed in a white tuxedo. His movements appeared to serve him in concealing something under his jacket, but after a moment of cautious observation Raven concluded that it was only the way that the rental outfit hung on his slight frame.


Kitsune sat on his haunches and licked his nose to take in more of the surrounding scents. His ears swiveled atop his head as he also watched the crowd with the same care and concern as his companion. "Well, no one else stepped up," he said, "other than DJWhatshisname, so I figured I'd try something."


Raven sighed and considered the brief exchange mere moments ago with Jean-Marc. It troubled her still that they came into this entire encounter with no real plan of action. Such maneuvers were ultimately doomed to failure and in her past, that's when people died. She wasn't completely sold on this new organization – hell, she was still figuring out Kitsune – but damned if she would let any of them die on her watch.


The music started with a shaking hyena at the controls, but soon he managed to compose himself and get truly lost in his role. The crowd was skeptical at first but eventually they found the music acceptable and they plunged back into their revelry.


Both her and Kitsune's attention was quickly grabbed as Jimbo proceeded to douse Jean-Marc in a coughing fit full of water. The man's reaction was nothing short of legendary as he summoned his lackeys to ... forcefully escort the offending party from the building. Raven left her position and approached as if to handle it for Jean-Marc, but his staff managed well enough.


That's when she and Kitsune noticed the glasses. Jean-Marc removed them and handed them to yet another of his seemingly endless supply of peons, and they watched as the spectacles were whisked away. In simpatico, Kitsune heard the unspoken suggestion from Raven and he set off in pursuit of the assistant with Jean-Marc's glasses. He bowed and weaved through a sea of legs, from both people and tables, yet kept a discrete distance as he tracked their progress through the backstage area.


Ok, Kitsune, then what? He thought to himself. Sure he could find the opportunity to snag them and take off, but even if he became lost amidst the party on the dance floor he would have been seen and with his earlier confrontation it would be easy to guess who had taken the glasses. Think! he mentally screamed. There had to be a way, some kind of distraction, where he could abscond with the object and quickly disappear. Everyone was counting on him.


Well, he thought, Tolkein said "courage is found in unlikely places" and I can't think of anywhere else more unlikely than here.


@SilverFlight @Bolts @Lioness075 @Bookworm0492 @Flutterby @Sleipnir

 

[fishfeet]

Julia tried not to frown at the response. It wasn't what she'd wanted, but then again, you wouldn't expect a man like him to give you, "Oh, I got these glasses from so-and-so and they can do this thingy, wanna try 'em?". Maybe someone else had a better plan? "Oh, that's disappointing." She said before adding, "For my friend, of course." Meanwhile, Aslan had grown tired of being carried and leapt down, careful not to land on Jean-Mark. She just rolled her eyes and let him wander, hearing Duik's shaky voice on the mic. He eventually composed himself and Julia whoul actually have been dancing if she didn't have to be looking professional, so she just tapped the rhythm on her thigh instead. Duik was easing into the DJing and getting over his stage fright, making Julia want to just jump down there and start dancing. Just when she was actually getting lost in the music, which was easy for her to do, she heard pink Jumbo have a coughing fit. She gasped slightly when he sputtered... Right onto Jean-Mark's face. Oh no.... But then he took off the glasses. Barry started signaling to Raven and herself with his notebook. "Hang on now, us? Sweet! Oh, and the fox. He looks nice." Aslan commented. Julia sent Barry a nod before looking to Raven. 'Aslan, keep me follow Kitsune and keep me informed.' She commanded. "Gotcha." He set off in the direction of the woman who had taken his glasses. "Oh dear, seems he heard nature's call. " Julia said, adding into the character by laughing sheepishly. "He'll be back soon."


Aslan padded down the hallway, making sure not to get his tail stomped to smithereens by the oh-so-many red high heels and black loafers. He had his tail stepped on once. Never again. Ever. He ducked under a particularly low dress, taking care not to look up and not to brush the perfectly hairless ankles in his view. He shuffled between dancers, sometimes having to dance himself, before he finally caught up with Kitsune. He tapped the fox's shoulder with his tail, slowing down to signal that he did too. Didn't want to look suspicious... Or lose their breath before they even got there. This place was HUGE. "Caught up to him, Julia! We're on the lady's trail." He felt like he was in one of those spy move that he and Julia had watched as cubs... Oh right. Cub and child.


@Kharmin @Bolts @peopleInOurGroup

 

[SilverFlight]

Marie-Lynn smiled pleasantly at Simon as he divulged his trapper secret. "A man of talent I see." It was then she noticed Fie drawing nearer. The python had noticed him too and was starting to advance.


"I'd watch your monkey if I were you. Caesar has been known to snap." A stuttering his escaped the python's thick throat which could only be interpreted as a laugh, but he did not stop his slow advance. Caesar draped the first few feet of his body over Marie-Lynn's shoulders, inching forward to get within striking distance of Fie. She looked down at the bear presented to her by Zoe, but it was nothing more than a common black bear.


"Very nice dear." She said absentmindedly. As soon as Beth had admitted to them all being companions her attitude seemed to change, she gave them less of a thought, but she took Zoe's compliment well. "Caesar came to me during one of my visits to South America. I was learning to take over the family business."


She glanced back at Simon. "Tell me, who was your...supplier?" She asked Simon where he had acquired his slaves as casually as if she were asking where he bought his clothes.


@zCrookedz @Peaceswore @DawnAntalios @Flutterby @Lioness075 @Sleipnir @crucialstar

 

[andujarprime]

Rin threw up a look of complete shock. “Come now Dante, you forget the company we keep. Can’t afford you? Please.” He said with a laugh as he eyed the croc then Max. He pulled out several uniquely colored chips. “It seems lady luck, if she indeed is a lady will be playing favorites tonight.” He said as he placed his chips in front of Alec. “Come on Dante. Give us a blow.” He said teasingly before turning his eyes to Max. “Gia tin tychi. Fysika.” (For luck. Of course) He assumed if Alec would play into the grab, this would be nothing. He placed two chips on 22, two chips on 12, then two chips on the intersections of various blocks. “Let’s see, 50 on each 22, and 12. Then let’s see if you aren’t Mr. luck himself Dante dear. And if I hit one, consider that your payment for the night.” He said with a smile before turning to Ash. “Kazi, don’t try playing too hard to get. I don’t want to have to give up Dante for you. We aren’t that good of friends just yet.” He said with a laugh as he took another sip of his drink, waiting for the attendant to call an end to the round of bidding.


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore @zCrookedz @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Bolts @Epiphany

 

[zCrookedz]

Spoiler

Simon:


Simon listened to Beth talk about her "job" that she had created and he felt a little bit sad inside. Beth and the others were close friends to Simon now, and he would most certainly never imagine them as anything other than friends and not this devious position they had created for themselves. Simon kept his outward appearance calm and collected, but inside he felt a bit pained and wanted to let Beth know she was doing a fantastic job.


He shifted his arms on the back of her chair when she spoke of independence and placed one of his big hands on her shoulder. He gave her a smile, hopefully conveying to her that everything was fine and everyone was doing a fantastic job.


Soon, Zoe arrived back with the drinks and Simon reached for the glass with the brown liquor in it. He smiled at Zoe and looked back to see Leandra was still at the bar.


He grew bit concerned until he felt Fie hop down off his shoulder and onto the table. Simon got a bit nervous about the little monkey being off his shoulder. After what Ash had told him about his affinity for shiny things and sugar, coupled with the large snake that could eat Fie as a snack, Simon was tempted to scoop the little guy up and put him right back on his shoulder to keep him safe.


"Fie has an affinity for shiny objects. That and sugar, which I don't allow him to have cause he get extremely hyper."


Once again playing on the companionship they had forged, hoping to solidify the ruse. Simon watched Fie and the snake seemed to get way to close to one another for his comfort. Simon reached across the table and grabbed Fie but the back of his neck to keep the little monkey from being dinner.


After he gave Fie a concerned look, he turned his attention to Zoe who also seemed to be speaking about the snake to Marie-Lynn. He smiled at Zoe's curiosity as Leandra slipped past her and sat down next to him. He watched her, meeting her gaze for a moment with just a hint of concern as to what happened at the bar.


That would have to wait until after the mission when Simon could make sure everything was alright. Soon he noticed Marie-Lynn's attitude change as she asked about the girls stories. The way she changed her attitude and changed how she addressed them, began to infuriate him. Peoplewe're not items to be bought and sold and the woman's disregard for the girls was beyond upsetting to him. But he couldn't blow the cover, he had to keep it up and apologize to everyone for the conversation later.


He took a sip from his drink before letting the glass rest on his leg and looking at Marie-Lynn a bit more seriously.


"I have, sorry had, a network of suppliers that keep me up to date on supply ports when I get orders for specific locations. Unfortunately my, suppliers, we're recently busted in the states. So, until I find another, suplier, it's just me and the girls for now."


He internally cringed through the entire story. He felt angry, sick, and so upset that he was talking about his team mates, his friends, like he was. He only hoped that the girls knew he ment nothing he was saying.





-----------------


Jimbo:


Jimbo grabbed a fist full of napkins from the table to try and help clean up the mess, or at least look liked he cared about it, but was promptly met by a howling Jean and three very unpleasant looking gentlemen who were pointing at the exit. Jimbo looked over to see Manjano also being escorted and then back to Jean as he took the glasses off. Jimbo sighed as he turned towards the exit and began to follow behind Manjano. At least, he had been able to do something to get the mission heading in the right direction.


As the guards shoved Jimbo out the exit and slammed the door behind him, Jimbo smiled as he wiped a bit of water from his mouth and then made his way over towards Manjano. He looked up at the guy with a shrug and a bit of a smile.


"If it works. If they aren't able to get the glasses then it will have been for not."


Jimbo looked down the street seeing the festivities still going on around. They hadn't been there too long, but long enough for Jimbo's stomach to start growling. He eyed a small shop next door where you walk up and sit down for food and motioned to it.


"I'm starving, let's grab some food there. Doesn't look near as crowded as the club."


Jimbo lumbered over towards the shop, not needing to duck from the curtains as he was too short on how knuckles. The people inside began speaking in Chinese to Jimbo as he looked over at the wall at some picture menu's. He pointed at a picture of some bamboo, and held up two fingers before the cooks nodded and headed for the back. Jimbo found himself a seat on the stool and waited for the food. Though they may not be in the club anymore, at least they would be nearby should things go south. Not only that, but if anything went badly, Manjano and Jimbo would be there to keep reinforcements from going inside the club.


As he sat there waiting, Jimbo pressed his finger up to his ear and activated the com.


"Team, Manjano and I got booted from the club. Watch your backs, but we'll keep eye's on the doors until mission is completeed."


@Lioness075





---------------------------


Max:


Max drained yet another of his drinks and held up the empty glass for the waiter to bring a refresh. He had begun feeling the alcohols effect a short time ago, and the continuing drinks were beginning to help him relax and loosen up.


Max's eyes flicked over to Dante andWilliam. Now there was an interesting expression. Max couldn't help but lean a bit forward with his drink and give Dante a coy and charming expression.


"Dear boy, if life has taught me anything, it's that EVERYONE has a price."


His attention returned to the one the phoenix had called William, but the stag had called Ash. Max's eyes squinted a bit as he watched the man talk to his partner, but was quickly drawn back to his glass as the waiter brought him another. He held the glass as chest height once more and then after a moment smiled as he sipped at it.


Listening to Kazmir speak he raised an eyebrow at his reaction to his question. It was fair enough, one can't just go around spilling personal details to anyone. As he set his drink down once more he crossed his legs and leaned on the arm of his chair.


"Maximilian Long. A pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Kazmir."


Max waved down a passing waiter and made a motion to the group and spoke the word "Yǐnliào" in Chinese to the man. The man nodded and scurried off to fetch a round of drinks. Max smiled at the group.


"The next round is on me, IF you will permit me the pleasure of how you came to acquire such a magnificent companion, Mr. Kazmir. I do not think I have ever seen a Pheonix with such radiant plumage."


@SilverFlight @Peacswore @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Lioness075 @Sleipnir @Flutterby

 

[Sleipnir]

Amidst the situation between the two girls, the black bear-turned-Andean grew a bit nervous, clacking his teeth ever so slightly. He didn't participate and had intended on trying to get everyone back on better terms when Zoe swept him away to present him to their host. He was, in part, a bit miffed that she either didn't realize what a situation his cousins in the Andes were facing or else — more likely — his long face and muzzle shape made it seem more likely that he was just a marked black bear. Not an uncommon thing, though more frequently, such markings were concentrated to the chest.


He gave Zoe a sympathetic look. Points for effort on that one.


Huh? What — how'd ya know I'm having trouble?


Oh. Sorry, Bael. Forgot who I'm with. So it isn't goin' so well with you?


Nah. Any better luck there?


I think so. At times.


Good luck, Cedar bear.


Frustratingly he recalled that he couldn't very well have a private conversation with her.


Cedar stood by when Simon told his story. He tried not to cringe and only flickered his ears at the description. He knew that the man didn't mean it. The bear stayed quiet. He wasn't certain he ought to speak — he was out of his element and not certain his nervous, bearish nature would do the group any good at all.


Great.


Bael took a breath, looking at his remains teammates. YyWhat good had it done for Manjano and Jimbo to get thrown out!? He wasn't angry or frustrated, though — just anxious. He had hoped to try appealing to the man's interests, or something — I anything — but bein shot down the first time left him feeling more or less completely unwanted. Likely he was. He glanced nervously at Totus, silently wondering what it was he ought to do now. He didn't want to say anything out loud and was very irritated, much like Cedar, that he couldn't force somebody of mental link and talk to the bird that way.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Spoiler

Zoe's first thought was that perhaps she had tried too hard to blend in once again. As she sat back and listened how Ceasar and Marie met her eyes wandered towards the others. Surely everyone wanted this operation to succeed and perhaps she tried to keep up the illusion too much, making everyone aggravated in the process.


As she heard Beth talk she was very impressed with the display - she had brought up very crucial and clever points, ones she would never have thought to exploit. As the girl talked she inspected Marie's expression and noticed the slight condescending flinch she had - it appeared that they had diminished their standing in the woman's eyes - which was just perfect. The less she thought about them the less likely was it for her to actually suspect anything. She only hoped that Simon did not mind the degrading tone of the sly woman.


Her look wandered to Leandra but she did not think that unnecessary hostilities were needed anymore - if Marie-Lynn did not focus on them there was no point. Looking at Simon she put on a wide, affectionate smile on her expression. This time, however, this was not for the charade, she just wanted to put Simon's mind at ease, to assure him that he was doing great and that he should keep up the good work. As he spoke about those suppliers she sighed.


" I don't mind that they are gone, Simon! " she said with a childish glee " Most of them were barbarians, rude and quite brutish figures... one of them flirted with me! ME! When he clearly knew that I am Simon's only! "


She sighed.


" I am sorry, honey-bear, I know it hurts business... but I wish we could find someone who is much more refined, more sophisticated than those insolent plebeians... Someone who is professional, witty and is ruthless... " she clasped her hands in a hopeful way and smiled at Simon " But until then we are here for you as always! "


She looked at Beth and Leandra with the same sheepish smile as she did on Simon. And she was certain that she will be sick from smiling this much after the mission.


@zCrookedz @Peaceswore @SilverFlight @Flutterby @Lioness075 @Sleipnir @crucialstar

Eos was speechless as he watched the spectacular performance. He was almost certain that his wisdom was pretty powerless here - Max was the kind of person who was clever but he valued ruthlessness, efficiency and daring actions above nice words. His resolve was firm though, he knew that the others will be able to handle the situation quite well.


Instead he decided to look around and watch the people celebrating. He noticed how happy everyone was and how much did they love this festival. True, it happened once in a year but never did he see so many being so joyful in his life. Probably because they never went to parties with Zoe but it warmed his heart to watch all these revelers.


Still, something was in the air which made him a bit uneasy. He could not explain it, it was... a strange feeling... something he had felt a long time ago.


He shook his head. He was just imagining things... he turned back to his group, paying close attention to them.


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore @crucialstar @zCrookedz @Lioness075 @Sleipnir @Flutterby

 

[Lioness075]

Manjano shrugged in return at Jimbo's response and then glanced about the area when Jimbo did the same.


Red was definitely the prominent color around here. Xiao had said something about it being a lucky color, right? If not her, then Manjano had, at least, heard it from someone. It was probably safe to assume he'd heard it from Xiao, though.


Looking back at Jimbo to see him gesturing at a food stall nearby, Manjano suddenly heard his stomach growl and gave Jimbo a bit of a sheepish grin before following after him. Food sounded brilliant right now and the fact that it was less crowded than the club made it all the more inviting to Manjano.


While Jimbo ordered, Manjano skimmed the menu. Despite it being in Chinese, Manjano found it relatively easy to decipher thanks to all of the pictures provided.


The second Manjano saw the picture of steamy dumplings, his eyes widened and he quickly pointed at them before holding up five fingers to the chef when he looked Manjano's way.


With his order underway, Manjano took a seat on a stool near Jimbo, though he had to leave one open between them so Jimbo had more space.


Relaxing considerably now that he was out of the club and in a quieter setting, plus with hot food on the way, Manjano listened to Jimbo's report to the team, but otherwise kept his mouth shut. It wasn't like he had much to add anyways.


The upside to the comms system was that anyone on the Jean-Marc team could report to Manjano and Jimbo as to what was going on in there. Hopefully, the team was making more progress after Jimbo made that scene.


@zCrookedz @Flutterby @Sleipnir @Kharmin @SilverFlight @Bolts @Bookworm0492

 

[SilverFlight]

Duik would have stayed up on that stage all night if it were up to him, but after riling the crowd he set a dance playlist he'd mixed himself a week ago and it seemed to keep people happy enough that he could slip backstage to rejoin his team.


"Guys guys! Did you see me?" He scrambled back to where he had left them, his spoiled, rock star persona forgotten and pure, excited triumph painted on his furry face...only to find more than half the team was missing, along with their target.


"What the heck happened?" He asked, more than a little confused.


Marie-Lynn seemed to frown at the news that the supplier had failed, though there was a hint of interest as well. It cause her to look down and put a hand in her purse, removing a small tablet and activating it carefully. She seemed to be scrolling through a list, almost as if she were trying to verify Simon's facts with her own information.


"That is unfortunate." She said slowly. "But, if you are in the market..." Her hand dipped once more into her purse and drew out a rough piece of paper.


"Contact this gentleman, he should be able to direct you too what you require."


((Sorry for the pathetic post, not much I can do with Duik atm besides free Barry, Marie-Lynn is stuck on writer's block...and I'll wait a little longer for Crucial because she said to expect a post in the near future. Otherwise, be prepared for the next phase. xD ))

 

[Bolts]

Barry knelt down and petted Duik's head as he came out with excitement. Seeing someone live their dream felt like he was close to living his too. You did great Duik. Nice mix. You really do have an ear for music. He wrote down in his notebook. As for the others. It would seem that Jimbo took the sacrifice route and got kicked out along with manjano. Made a little scene and long story short, Jean- Marc took his glasses off to go get fixed possibly. Kitsune and Aslan are going to try and grab it while we keep Jean busy here. Maybe extract some information in case the glasses really are busted. He got back up to look at everyone else. Bael and Totus were still here but were generally quiet. Raven and Julia seemed to be taking the lead in talking Jean-Marc up. Though, he seemed relatively annoyed with both of them from what he had witnessed. Perhaps it was Barry's turn? Maybe he got on the good side since Duik did an amazing job. He wrote down in his book for the others to see while Jean- Marc was away.


So... Any way we can get some money to flaunt around? Something tells me this guy would be pleased to settle a deal and make some money.





@TheBOOKWORMgal @Flutterby @Sleipnir @Kharmin

 

[deer]

Laohu had stayed at Lea's side throughout the whole welcoming and entering the vicinity of the club. He had to smirk slightly when Lea managed to fluently speak her greetings in Mandarin but even more so when Maia ended up flinging herself at Leandra, finding interest in her as an equal, and giving advice to her. Chuckling in amusement as he turned over when her heard a soft yet alluring voice echo in his ears, he gazed over at the snow leopard once more. It was nice to see another animal with imprinted black marks and white fur. At hearing her greeting, he grinned nonchalantly, as his voice boomed in the room, showing strength and slight amusement, "Your partner has taken a liken to my own, hasn't she?" Laohu said, letting the lie slip through his tongue like butter, just as Xiao Hui's did when she mentioned BB was her partner. Sighing, he wished they didn't need disguises, but sadly, it was the only way to get their targets and to act in a different role, even if it meant fooling one of their own. Laohu, however, couldn't help but notice her quite feminine pleasurable purring as he blinked, in confusion. In response, he chuffled, gazing at the feline in curiosity. However, at Ahmose mentioning it was good for them to have a counterpart, he couldn't have agreed more, as his expression softened. "Definitely, I have to agree. A yin to our yang, in a sense, right? Or what do the teenagers call it now? Peanut butter to their jelly?" Laohu wondered thoughtfully, "in any case, opposites attract." Looking over to Fie, he remembered his outburst of him ruling since it was his year. Shaking his head, he hoped the monkey wouldn't lash out at their target.

@Epiphany





Soon, they were making there way through the crowd as Laohu kept at an even pace with Lea, growling once in a while when someone got to close to her. "Drunks after drunks," he muttered under his breathe, "it's definitely a club." However as they made their way inside through the doors, Laohu's ears perked when he heard clattering, seeing that Simon purposely ran into the man as anger boiled in his tone. Blinking, Laohu couldn't help but find that their entry was rather. . .well, eye-catching. He scoffed slightly, remembering how they all wanted to blend in but now, here they are, making a huge scene. However, at hearing Zoe's raised voice, Laohu looked up towards Lea and then Falarion, hearing both of their comments. Nodding in response, Laohu spoke up, "Sometimes, making a spectacle of yourselves is the best way to draw out someone, especially in situations like these." He replied solemnly, not wanting to take part in the situation, seeing that they had it handled around. Soon, a slight "whack" was heard as Laohu stared directly at the reddened mark on the waiter's face and couldn't help but feel . . angered yet numb by Zoe's actions. But, seeing Falarion cower in slight nervousness, Laohu worried for the hybrid but was grateful to see Beth soothing and calming down his nerves. If Laohu had to be honest, nothing surprised him anymore, especially getting slapped or hit. It happened to . . Hui . . from time to time, that it angered him immensely. However, Hui was the only one to calm him down in those situation and in this situation, he had to nudge Lea's leg, hoping she was okay with such actions. Thankfully, because of that scene, it wasn't for naught, seeing Marie-Lynn took bait and spoke to them. As soon as the woman's sly voice was heard he resisted the urge to growl, hearing it sickly sweet. Nebertheless, he kept an impassive face on only to see Lea joining the fray as the literally called Simon "sir" and wrapping her arms around him. Seeing the change in Lea's behavior as quick as lightning, Laohu supressed the urge to shake his head as he knew she was playing a part. At the same time, he felt, in the pit of his guts that this whole mission and taking on these roles as Simon's "girls" would definitely anger them, especially knowing humans were being trafficked.


Though, Laohu had to admit their disguises looks natural and realistic, as he saw all of them playing their parts well, even with the slight improvisation. If anything, they were all great actors and actresses. Hearing Fie's nonchalant and playfulness sort of toned the mood down, considering the monkey was well . . acting as himself, at least. Hearing Simon speaking directly to Marie-Lynn as she welcomed all of them to come and sit, Laohu followed along with Zoe and Lea to get the drinks and whiskey. He glanced over slightly towards Falarion and Beth, hoping they'll fare well, not in a sense that they'll lose their cover, but handling the whole situation mentally. Seeing the overly zealous Zoe being quite jumpy and bubbly made Laohu raise a brow here and there, but, he couldn't help but chuckle once in a while, seeing how she was trying to stay in her role. It was pretty amusing to him, honestly, but hearing her complaints, he looked over at Lea, seeing the frustration build up inside of her as she tried to remain impassive and calm throughout the whole act. But, seeing Zoe taking a hold of Lea's arm, before Laohu could warn Zoe about touching Lea so closely, they were already off to the bar. As Zoe talked, he wondered if it was a good idea to attack first, it definitely would set a chain reaction and that would not go so well, especially with all these people. However, hearing Lea's response to Zoe's musing and rants, Laohu knew the girl was almost at her limit, seeing her frustration build as each harsh words were said to Zoe. Soon, like a ticking bomb, the two girls were in a hostile situation as Laohu frowned slightly at the two. Speaking through the comms, Laohu spoke up, "Girls, calm down. You two are teammates for crying out loud. Even if you're disagreeing with one another, a compromise is a must." However, seeing Zoe's reaction he knew he couldn't get through to her as she began to make a fuss about Cedar not being able to drink, soon they took the drinks and headed back. Laohu had kept a close eye on where Marie-Lynn was as she looked quite fascinated and interested at the hostility between his friends. At the same time, at hearing Cedar playing along with Zoe, he couldn't help but grin slightly at the bear. But, seeing Lea's downfallen expression, confusion, and tiredness when she glanced at him, Laohu purred against her legs, speaking to her in a whisper to where she could only hear, "Lea, it's alright. It's been a long night so far. Perhaps you were a little harsh on Zoe and you're letting your emotions affect how you react and think, young one. At the same time, she was also on edge, seeing that she lashed out as well. It's a lot of hormones going around here, plus the club is quite stuffy. Fresh air and hot chocolate will be at your service when we finish this. Later on, when you two get the chance, talk, if you are worried. But, it seemed like a 'pretend' fight she had caused." He told her reassured her calmly and suggested as he followed her back towards the others.


Once they returned, Beth had seemed to join into the conversation, presenting herself elegantly and sophisticatedly. But, even more so, Laohu's ears perked at Simon mentioning being a "trapper" as Zoe and Beth helped him out, giving him evidence of his "job" and capabilities. Laohu resisted the urge to growl under his breathe as he heard such a thing. It disgusted him and made him feel sick in his paws as he couldn't bear to hear another word. The woman, Marie-Lynn, didn't seemed to have an ounce guilt as she spoke of it as if it was nothing. He knew all of them were baiting them on, but it didn't mean he had to like the source of topic. Laohu was impressed with their capabilities, but nothing eats him away from than knowing there are innocent humans and animals being sold like slaves and captured as if it wasn't a big deal. It took him all his might to not pounce on the snake, seeing it recoil and coming forward at striking distance towards Fie. The python was playing with them, but he held no playful expression on his face as he remained stoic. He worried about Lea, how she was taking all this information in, knowing how she was soft-hearted at such topics. Absent-mindedly, he nudged his head against her, purring at her, as he remained in the background, not wanting to catch the god-awful woman's attention on him. If she did pay him any mind, he wouldn't know if he'd be able to snap back his bite. However, he had to admit, they were making progress, seeing the woman handing Simon a business card of some sort. Sighing inwardly, he had to make sure Beth, Lea, Simon, and Zoe, were going to get pampered later, especially when he felt slimy and dirty himself physically, mentally, and spiritually. Laohu could only see the professionalism of an Agent as he watched Simon do his job, even if it means taking on a corrupted role. Realizing he had been too into his thoughts and worried about his teammates, he hadn't notice the music that had been playing through out the club. "This. . ?" He muttered to himself as he listened to the beat, letting the music sweep him slightly away from what was going on in front for a moment as he closed his eyes, grinning slightly, "Duirk." Laohu managed to say as he opened his eyes, feeling better than before, knowing he and the rest were faring well, it seemed.

@SilverFlight @Lioness075 @zCrookedz @Flutterby @Peaceswore @Sleipnir
​

 

[Kharmin]

Raven/Kitsune


Ok, this is taking entirely too long, Raven thought. Kitsune was following the glasses and would use any good distraction to make his move. She looked around and spied just the answer: a small box on the wall, inside of which behind a small pane of glass was a lever. Markings on the red and white box were in Chinese, but Raven recognized a fire alarm when she saw one.


"Look, all we need are the damn glasses, right?" she asked the others. It was like being in command all over again. She made captain in the army for a reason and now was as good of a time as any to assert some authority or they would be here too long. And that's when people get killed, she thought. "Kitsune has that handled. Get everyone out. We're done here."


Raven turned and took several purposeful strides to the box, smashed the glass with her fist and pulled the lever. Immediately, klaxons sounded throughout the building and strobe lights fought for the partiers' attention over the lights synchronized with Duik's latest selection. Raven scowled at the lack of attention the fire alarm had on the revelers but then she was rewarded as the dozens – maybe hundreds? -- of sprinkler heads spewed forth their concoction of water and fire-retardant chemicals. The volume of the spray was such that she was certain that they would all be ankle deep in the mixture before the fire department could arrive to shut the system off.


Kitsune's ears picked up the sound of the alarm, but the assistant with the glasses paid it no heed. Once the sprinklers started, though, the fox saw his opportunity. While the assistant was distracted for that one, mere moment, he sprung and snatched the implement from their hand with his teeth and sprinted head-long into the throng of party-goers who were now in abject panic as they sought the nearest exits.


Kitsune spun around through the crowd and headed for the side exit. There were simply too many bodies heading for the main entrance for him to safely navigate. In the panic caused by the sudden downpour from above, he easily dodged between people and shot through the door. Covered in an oily residue of water Kitsune took a breath and shook from head to toe which only served to make all of his fur stand on end and give him the appearance of a orange-red ball of fuzz.


The fur-ball fox looked up at Jimbo and, with the glasses still in his mouth, said, "What are you looking at? I got the glasses, didn't I?" He presented them and added, "Take these and get them to Alec; I'm going back for Raven." Then, without pausing, Kitsune spun and shot back into the club.


@TheBOOKWORMgal @Flutterby @Sleipnir @Lioness075 @Bolts and @AnyoneElseInTheClub

 

[Peaceswore]

Ash just smiled at Rin when he told him about playing too hard to get. "If I made myself easy to get, well is there fun in that?" He hummed as he watched the wheel spin. "Maximilian Long...nice name." Ash said calmly his eyes watching the ball spin and spin. A small smile appeared on his lips when he was asked how he acquired his current companion. "I don't mind telling you about Lune here, if it means a free round for my friends." He chimed as he gestured at Rin and Alec seeing as he had no plans to even sip some alcohol today.


He leaned down a bit, his white hair getting in his eye but he pushed it behind his ear as he looked at Max. "Thanks to my families connection not to mention power, I didn't do any amazing quest or even go out of my way to get her... She was made available to me when I was fifteen, her and a few other rare creatures. But she was the one I bonded with, and I'm glad I got her, it not only separated me from the competition for a time, she is by far my most trusted ally." His eyes then shifted watched the ball bounce into the 22 slot once again the luck seemed to be with him and Rin on this one. Collecting his earnings and giving Rin his, he smiled just a bit as he looked at the waiter who just returned with another wave of drinks. He didn't take the drink and let it be placed by him but taking no interest he looked at Maximilian. "Lady luck hasn't been kind to you today, however the third time is the charm and I believe that saying wholeheartedly." Ash said before sighing. "With that being said how about testing your third opportunity to score big, on something that doesn't involve calling out a number~ Rather a simple conversation between me and you. Though...hmm Not here, I prefer a place we wouldn't be judged by prying eyes... Though that's of course if you wish to test your luck~" Ash said calmly as he stood straight a kind, inviting and rather trusting smile on his face as one hand remained in clear view by his side and the other rested on the table. However before Max could say anything, Ash heard loud alarms going off and in seconds he felt himself get doused in water. 'You got to be fucking with me.....'


Blinking a few times he looked up and saw the sprinklers had gone off, at this he raised a brow as he looked around. There was no fire, at least from what he could see and he hadn't been alerted about it... Though now he thought about it someone had been speaking in his ear about getting out, however he toned it out. '......Well this is just great. Maybe I can still get what we need.' He didn't leave his spot as he watched people start to scramble to the exit. Instead of panicking about the possibility that the mission was going to fail Ash stayed calm and collected as casually picked up a purple poker chip from the table which he started to twist in between his fingers. A small chuckle left him as he felt his hair start to stick to his body and his clothing begin to suck up the falling water his eyes still on the hysterical people scrambling to leave. "Well there goes my night, I bet this was caused due to a gambler losing big and wanting a way to snag some cash. Be careful with your wallet." Now he looked back at Max as he pushed off the table still twirling the poker chip and his smile still on him. "You know, a little rain has never stopped me, so if you are interested Max I think we can still have a great conversation. About you winning big, so much so all the money you lost will be returned to your pockets and doubled if not tripled~"


@zCrookedz @SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @andujarprime @Lioness075 @crucialstar @Epiphany


Fie hadn't noticed the python that was getting a bit close to him as he had been in his daze. Honestly if Simon hadn't grabbed him there was a good chance the monkey would have just snatched her necklace and ran just out of instinct in a way. However now that he was perched back onto Simon's shoulder he couldn't do what he had planned since there was now too much ground to cover. Letting out a disappointed sigh he let the humans talk while he listened to the amazing music while also looking at the pretty gems that went by his eyes.


Soon however he let out a loud yelp of surprise when the alarms went off making him jump from Simon's shoulder to his head. Though this didn't really help anything as moments later he started to get wet... Something he didn't like in the least. It takes Ash a good long struggle to get the monkey into the bath/shower and for plenty of reason. Fie doesn't like getting wet...he really doesn't. It makes his fur all sticy and in his eyes, he ends up smelling like mew dew for gods know how long and he looks weird! He hates getting wet...so he detested this watery surprise. "ACK!!! WATER!!! AHHHHH!!" KILL IT WITH FIRE!!!!" The monkey suddenly shouted as he jumped off of Simon and dived right under the table to avoid getting wet for as long as possible, he didn't care if the building was on fire! He wasn't moving!


@zCrookedz @Flutterby @crucialstar @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios

 

[SilverFlight]

"Awww, thanks bro," Duik grinned at Barry, pleased with the compliment. As he absorbed the information his eyes grew wide.


"Wow, you guys are awesome! They might need help." Duik turned to dash off in the direction the others had gone when he nearly ran headlong into Kitsune running the other way, his prize held firmly between his teeth.


"I guess that's why you guys are vets at this huh?" He giggled. The alarms began to blare and water showered them all. Duik stuck out his tongue. "I hate rain."


@TheBOOKWORMgal @Sleipnir @Flutterby


On the far side of the backstage area, a door slowly began to open. A shadow slipped from it, big and silent. It crept down the adjacent set of steps to the underground electrical system for the club. Suddenly, the lights went out.


@everyone


Duik yelped in surprise. He didn't like water, but he hated the dark more, and in this dark it was almost impossible to see, even for a night-visioned animal like him. Around the corner he could see the dim flash of an exit sign. On two seconds and off again. It was hardly light to navigate by.


"Uhhh Barry...what the heck just happened?" He shifted, trying to catch a glimpse of Kitsune. "This...this was in your plan right?"


@TheBOOKWORMgal @Sleipnir @Flutterby


A thousand plans spun through Alec's head on how to move forward, none of them appealing. His courage began to falter again and then suddenly it was like someone above decided to take pity on him. The fire alarm went off. "We should evacuate." He said loudly, but his mind was far from the roulette table. If there really was something wrong, he had to go find Duik. The the lights died. Everything was plunged into complete darkness.


"Oh, perfect." He said grumpily.


"Try and stay together guys, it might've been a fire in the electrical house backstage." Backstage...Duik!


"I have to go." He told Rin and Ash quickly. "Keep everyone together. Lune, make sure they have light."


With that he turned and slowly made his way out of the casino area. The light from his phone wasn't much, but it did keep him from tripping on furniture or unsuspecting club goers.


Backstage...which way was backstage...he didn't remember! but he did remember which way the music had come from. If he could reach the DJ booth, backstage wouldn't be too far.


It was then the screaming started. A single person, male, and it came from the lounge. The noise was one of pure terror before it was cut short. That did it it seemed. Suddenly Alec found himself diving behind the bar, trying not to get trampled by the stampede of terrified guests and their animal companions. Some had used their phones for light, some were already on the ground, getting stepped on in the sheer panic that gripped the entire club.


"Duik! What's happening?! Are you okay?!" Alec shouted into the com.


They hyena had heard the scream and felt his blood turn to ice. He stepped back and pushed himself against Barry for comfort.


Suddenly there was a lot more screaming and thundering as people booked it away from wherever that first scream had come from. Alec's voice came over their coms, filled with static but intelligible all the same.


"Alec! You're ok!...I don't know what's going on. Jimbo and Manjano are outside, they got kicked, but Barry, Julia and them are still here."


"Do you know where the light box is?" came Alec's question.


"Y-yeah, I think..."


"Good, take everyone of our team you can find and go try to get them back on."


"W-what about you?!"


There was a pause. "I need to see what the heck's going on...I think someone was just killed."


"What?! And you're going toward the homocidal mystery guest?! You're crazy!"


Not a second passed before another blood-curdling scream was cut short.


"Go Duik! And be careful!"


Alec stopped the transmission, hoping that everyone else heard that. He wondered if he should wait a bit to see if the others would join him.


The dull, slow flashing of the exit sign glinted in the water falling from the sprinklers and cast its light over the many heads trying to escape...but something was wrong. The doors weren't opening? And the building was designed with windows too high for anyone to reach, even if they stood on tables...or each other. He wondered how fast the police response was in this city, because it looked like this had been orchestrated...which was bad.


Slowly Alec crept from his hiding place at the bar, drawing his gun and setting it to one of the more lethal cartridges.


The wet carpet squelched under his shoes as he drew nearer to where he had heard the first scream. Everything was silent now in that direction, save for the patter of the sprinklers. Not a thing stirred. Alec's phone only lit a few feet in front of him. The once lively and vibrant atmosphere of the club had turned eerie and ominous, almost like a bad horror film.


He smelled something sharp and metallic in the air and made the mistake of looking down. The water pooling at his feet was red.


The fear that had been sneaking up on him now seemed to have grabbed hold of him fully. He heard his breathing quicken.


Just then something caught his eye, the hand of someone who had fallen, the rest of the body obscured in darkness. Alec hurried over and froze when the light revealed more of the scene. There was no body...just a bloody, severed hand.


His fear threatened to take over. Every instinct in him told him to get the Hell out.


"I think we're dealing with a rogue...a big one. With claws. Its just killed two people." He spoke over the Watch com for everyone to hear. "Something doesn't make sense though, why would the Rogues upset a club with head members of their operations here?"


He didn't have time to think on the answer. The familiar four-step sound of an animal squelched its way across the carpet right by him.


Alec whirled about, tripped over an upturned chair and fell backwards over it painfully. In an instant he had his phone light and gun facing forward and caught just a flash of a terrifying sight. The creature vanished into the gloom so quickly Alec almost doubted what he saw.


"G-guys..." He couldn't finish however, for just as he recovered there was an explosion of screams by the exit.


"Its attacking the civilians! I need backup!"


Alec scrambled to his feet, shaking off the terrifying sight and lurching forward after the beast.


Duik was glad the darkness concealed the terror etched on his face. Just seconds ago he was on cloud nine as he lived his dream on the stage. Now this dream was fast degrading into a nightmare. He looked at Bolt, barely able to make out his face.


"Um...keep a hand on my back?" He asked timidly, not wanting to lose Barry, or anyone else.


"We need to get the lights back on."


@TheBOOKWORMgal @Sleipnir @Flutterby @andujarprime @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Epiphany @Peaceswore


Marie Lynn frowned as the lights went out. She still held the tablet, its faint glow illuminating her face in a ghostly light. Carefully she drew a pistol from her inner coat pocket.


"It seems something is not right." She said calmly. When the first scream broke through the silence she swore. "This is not the best time for conversation. We're being attacked by a creature we can't hope to match." Her done was deadly serious, yet she seemed to know something about waht this thing was.


"Get out while you can." She told Simon and the others.


@zCrookedz @Flutterby @crucialstar @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios @Sleipnir @Peaceswore


((I hope I tagged everyone))

 

[Bolts]

Barry was confused by the whole plan that had been set before them by the Raven and Kitsune pair. The others were possibly making progress with their target. Water just dampened the mood of everything. It was luck that he had not worn make up. It would have been washed away pretty quick if that were the case. As he scanned for any nearby get away, he noticed a fast moving shadow out of the corner of his eye. It moved too fast for him. If he had expected something like that to happen, then perhaps he would have caught it before it did the deed. As Barry turned his head, the lights went out. Screaming from the patrons were echoing as chaos ensued. It wasn't till the blood curdling scream did he start to snap out of it. He didn't let his squad die on him back on the military, he wasn't about to let it happen now. Hearing Alec on the comms solidified the plan needed. Get those lights back on. He needed to orient himself. As luck would have it, Duik was facing the way to the fuse box. He kept close to Duik and the others and often put his hand on Duik's mane to comfort him.


He knew what to do. Being in theater taught you a lot of the ins and outs of the stage. He could fix the lights, sound, costumes. The whole ordeal was something he could accomplish. As they got to the location of the box, Barry instantly reached his hand up to it. Sharpness overtook his hand for a moment. A warm liquid was running down his hand. [Ahh dangit!] He thought to himself as he pushed the clawed open hing. Whatever this Rouge was, it was dangerous. Another bloodcurdling scream belted out. Barry had no time to lose. With an exhale, he instanlty went to work on the switches. Some were snapped off. This thing really didn't want the lights back on. He pondered for a moment and came to an annoying solution. He unraveled the scarf from his neck and wrapped it around his cut hand. reaching up with the covered hand, he worked the jagged flips. Some struggle was met but Barry came out on top. [3....2.....1!] He told himself as the final switch was used. It was a long few seconds. Barry opted to flip it again. [oh you have to be kidding me...] he thought as he took a step away from the box. Holding onto his cut hand, he wondered if the others would give it a shot.


He took a step out to see the main area of the party. Phone lights where flashing, screaming was everywhere. To top it all off, some animal was killing people and the water was still going off. He scanned everywhere. The light from the phones only gave off small shots of a quick moving target. He bit his lip. He couldn't just let them get slaughtered! He joined to help people, not leave them in the dust. He would need cover. Something to slow down the beast even if it did cut through a fuse box. Something like tables or a counter. He opted for the bar. He hoped this thing was big so he could get some warning time.





@TheBOOKWORMgal @Sleipnir @Flutterby @andujarprime @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Epiphany @Peaceswore (lights camera Action)

 

[SilverFlight]

((Lights are still off, just keep that in mind when posting until Bolts makes a small edit. Needs the lights to stay off for a bit, thx!))