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Fantasy Code FERAL

Simon could feel the grip on his belt tighten as he stood there and watched as this man began to berate and belittle his team. He gritted his teeth has he stood there amongst the others, writhing as he watched how Xiao's father treated the group and their demands to have their friends returned to them. Even Eos's words of wisdom seemed shot down with the silver tongue of the Chinaman.


Soon, doors opened and guards entered carrying the body of something that looked familiar and tossed it to the ground. He felt the grip on his belt tighten and Amber's hand was placed on his chest as he recognized Kitsune and Xiao's father motioned for the guards to deliver out "punishment"


Jimbo continued to try and calm Simon's mind, try and break through the swirling storm of anger directed at Xiao's father. Even after he sparred Kitsune and he returned to Raven's, the anger did not subside. While Jimbo could stop Simon from physically moving, he was not able to keep Simon from blurting out after he shot down Amber's negotiations.


"You seriously think, The Watch wouldn't risk our own lives to get what they want out of you? Please, The Watch see's us as tools, and if a wrench ain't big enough to fix the problem, you just get a bigger wrench."


Simon turned around and grabbed Jimbo by the wrist, prying his belt loose so he could stand without restraint before turning back to Xiao's father and glaring him down.


"We want the rest of our team. Now. I personally could give a rats ass about what you know. I didn't come here from information, I came here for them. Give us Leandra and Laohu back!"


@SilverFlight @crucialstar @DawnAntalios @Lioness075 @Bolts @Kharmin @Flutterby
 
Luness fluffed her feathers up even further, as Xiao' father responded to her with hardly a care in the world towards her companion.


Shaking her head at him, Luness opened her beak to respond to his questions of who Manjano was, but Manjano swiftly moved his hand to her beak once more, silencing the phoenix and whispering in her ear with a mixture of urgency and irritation, "You're not helping anyone right now, Luness. Calm. Down."


Hearing Manjano, Luness almost flared again at the fact that nobody seemed to want to aid her, but realized that it was all in vain. Threatening anyone who held her companion captive only invited them to further harm her, even though Luness had already felt that something had happened to Leandra moments ago.


Letting go of Luness' beak once she nodded, Manjano looked back at Xiao's father, as Luness looked to the ground below her, her feathers settling against her body and her flames vanquishing on their own.


Manjano didn't like the way he'd had to talk to Luness and knew he'd have to apologize later no doubt, but they just didn't have the time for emotions to be running high everywhere. It'd only continue to slow their progress.


Keeping a straight face and continuing to remain outwardly calm and collected, Manjano watched Xiao's father and listened to him, as he reacted to those around him.


Having witnessed Kitsune's untimely arrival and Raven's reaction to all of it, Manjano's eyes narrowed at her, but he kept his mouth shut.


Manjano personally knew father figures much like Xiao's father from his own personal foster kid life. Leandra would know the type if she'd met him, too. With past experience in mind, Manjano knew better than to say anything and even better to show much emotion, if any at all. The less you gave a man like Xiao's father to manipulate, the better.


When Xiao's father slammed down a book on his desk and shouted at them, Manjano didn't even flinch. He'd heard the tone shift beforehand and recognized the way he was acting. This wasn't the first time he'd dealt with someone with a similar anger management problem.


Luness didn't shrink or flinch either when Xiao's father shouted, though it was for an entirely different reason. Her mind was muddled with thoughts, as she continued to worry for Leandra. She hadn't felt anything through their connection since the last flash of fear and this had Luness deeply concerned.


Listening to the way Xiao's father respited N, who was the lady standing in the room with them now, Manjano quickly noted that the pair seemed to share a fragile alliance. Perhaps that could be manipulated to the team's advantage?


Before he could risk mentioning it to anyone, Manjano's attention was diverted by the appearance of guards brandishing swords and now surrounding the team. Well, this probably could've gone much better. It probably would've been far worse if Leandra was here, though. She was far worse than nearly everyone else here in speaking out of turn. She'd always had a fiery personality, which now that he thought about it, quite perfectly matched Luness' current attitude.


Watching Xiao's father almost execute Kitsune, Manjano felt no concern towards the fox, as he selfishly only cared for those in his family. To Manjano, everyone else here, except Beth of course, was expendable to an extent. Plus, the fox had only made the situation worse. Not to mention the fact that he was far too injured to be of any use right now. Why did he even bother snooping around to begin with? Why didn't he just stay in the vehicle with Falarion? At least, his own companion knew how to obey him.


At the mention of taking the deal or dying, Manjano had to resist the urge to roll his eyes. Considering that nobody had searched the team and removed any weapons on them, he highly doubted the team would go down easily and if a few had to die for the overall team to survive and continue their mission, so be it.


It wasn't like Manjano hadn't dealt with his own mercenary-related, or gang if you really wanted to call it that, situations in the past. When you grew up as a foster kid and had nothing to your name once you moved out, you had to make a living somehow and the twins had been more than less fortunate in doing so. Someone had to pay the bills, no matter how the money was earned.


Which, now that he thought about it, this all felt very similar to a sort of gang-like scenario, which meant things could go awry and far from in the team's favor in a heartbeat if they kept pushing Xiao's father's patience as they already were.


Listening to Xiao's father response to Amber, Manjano inwardly sighed. This really wasn't going anywhere for the team.


Yet, the moment it was mentioned they could see a live feed and talk to their missing companions, Luness' eyes widened and she looked up in a flash with fire seemingly burning in her eyes.


Before Luness could even open her beak to say something, Manjano glared at her and she wisely shut her beak.


Looking back to Xiao's father, Manjano had the same question burning in his mind as Xiao, as he thought back to when Xiao's father said before that he didn't have Luness' companion. That made no sense if he claimed to have her now. What was going on here?


While waiting for N to respond, Manjano thought back to Raven and Kitsune's brief interaction, as he wondered what was up with those two. He knew it was mentioned before that they hadn't been bonded for long, right? How deeply did that affect a bonding if one was bonded later than the age of 15?


Shaking his head and refocusing, Manjano flinched when Simon suddenly began shouting at Xiao's father. Idiot, he was going to get the whole team and maybe even their missing companions killed!


Glaring at Simon, Manjano then looked at Jimbo and tilted his head to the side, silently asking him why he wasn't keeping his companion in check.


Looking back to Xiao's father now, Manjano continued to remain silent and stoic, as he waited with bated breath to see how he'd handle the outburst.


Meanwhile, Luness looked sharply at Simon, the feathers on her head sticking straight up, as she said in a sharp and steady tone, "You'd best keep your temper in check unless you wish to get all of us including Leandra and Laohu killed, Simon."


Granted, it was rather hypocritical of her to say, but she was calmer now and she may just lose her chance to, at least, see her companion thanks to Simon's outburst.


@crucialstar @Kharmin @SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @Flutterby @Bolts @zCrookedz @andujarprime
 
N's expression did not even change when the old man threatened her with harsh words and with a weapon like object he deemed worthy of using. This was not the first time she witnessed such childish outbursts - but she found it kind of amusing at the same time. He was sure hellbent on asserting dominance, he wanted to show how strong authority he had. This was both admirable and hilarious for the woman.


Umbra merely chuckled at the empty threats of the fox and looked at the man with a smug expression. He could hide his emotions less well than his mistress but he still remained obedient - as much as he despised the chinese tyrant. Nevertheless, he remained silent and watched it with an amused look as the fox's life was spared by the pleading of his companion. Begging... how pitiful - yet useful at the same time.


As N looked around she noticed an agent stepping forward to talk to Liang - and when she realized who she was her eyes glinted in anticipation. Umbra could feel her muscles turning tense and he looked at the woman questioningly - yet this fired up state faded as quickly as it came. When the question was asked the woman she smiled. She looked around, looking at her own guards and the ones of the chinese man, thinking for a moment. She seemed to be lost in her thoughts as if she was devising the plan for the best move - but in the end - seeing how furious the crowd was - she decided to speak up.


" I would, my Lord, but unfortunately I can not usher our new friends into the sanctuary when their comrades are held. " she said, bowing courteously " I just came from a brief visit from them and they were still slumbering from exhaustion - the guards informed me that they did not want to be disturbed, as strange as it might sound. "


She turned towards the raging agents - especially looking at the phoenix and the man with the gorilla. With a kind smile she bowed again in apology.


" I owe you an apology, agents. " she said, glancing over to Amber, more specifically " In order to arrange such a meeting I had to use more... drastic measures than I would usually like. In a world where honeyed words are coated with venom and alliances are usually fragile one must question whether the old, orthodox methods of simply sending a message is good enough. I know that I may have probably upset you with this incident - but believe me when I say that I meant no true harm and that your friends have not suffered any injuries or harm. "


She now turned towards Liang.


" My lord - I would like to ask you to give a humble boon to these weary agents. It is late in the evening and they are surely tired - the environment and the air crackles from the tense situation. We would not be able to strike a good bargain if our souls are not at ease. I vouch for a peaceful night of sleep where all of us could rest and clear their heads - for the greater good, of course. "


@SilverFlight @crucialstar @Lioness075 @zCrookedz @Kharmin @Bolts @andujarprime @Flutterby


Zoe quickly recovered from the shock. She must have been seeing ghosts, that's all. The trials and tribulations were going on her nerves and her imagination ran wild. She cleared her head and focused, straining her eyes to see better what was happening inside the house. It appeared that they were... talking. She saw Luness flying angrily and some movement but nothing else.


" Well... we might be here for a while. " she said, shivering from the cold. She forgot how often did she have to hide in the open, in the frozen north. This environment made her soft... fragile in a sense. The battle hardened self was now gone - she felt the biting wind in her hair.


" Curious, I see no enemy movement inside - but no action on our part either. Maybe they are successfully bartering? "


She looked at the strange woman she thought to be a long lost spectre... it was still chilling just looking at the enigmatic figure.


@SilverFlight @Flutterby
 
Luness quickly became confused, as N spoke of new friends, sanctuary, and comrades. What in the world was she speaking of and why was she speaking in such an odd way? Luness could barely make sense of N's words.


Manjano felt equally confused, as he raised an eyebrow at N and even slightly tilted his head to the side.


Yet, the moment N mentioned that Leandra and Laohu were still asleep and didn't want to be disturbed, Luness let out an angered screech. That was not true! Luness knew what she felt and someone had attacked Leandra moments ago. Whatever the true reason were for the lack of their appearance, Luness knew that Leandra had no choice in the matter.


"You're lying! I know what I felt! Someone attacked my Leandra and whatever the true reason may be, she had no choice in the matter."


Listening to Luness, and having flinched at the sudden screech from her, Manjano's head straightened quickly, as his confused expression quickly became one of anger. Leandra had been harmed...again?


As N spoke once more, Luness angrily seethed on Manjano's shoulder and then flames began dancing about her feathers once more, as she shouted, "Not harmed!? We found Leandra's blood in the kitchen where you kidnapped her and Laohu! You already injured her and now you've done it again!"


As the flames danced along Luness' feathers, Manjano felt himself grow uneasy once more, as he wasn't entirely keen on being this close to such an angry phoenix of all creatures.


Manjano listened to N mention that it might be best for them to all rest first and he instantly shook his head at this thought. How would that help anything? That'd only give whoever had Leandra now a chance to move her even further away from them.


Again, Luness spoke up, though her tone was one of a more controlled and quiet anger, "You wish to trick us into relaxing while you perhaps move my companion even further away from me, but I am not blind to your methods. This has nothing to do with the 'greater good', as you have said."


@DawnAntalios @SilverFlight @zCrookedz @Flutterby @Bolts @crucialstar @andujarprime @Kharmin
 
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Keeping an even glance at N and the rest of the Watch Agents, Zhuge Liang turned over to give the bowing woman who had spoken once more a slight attention as he watched the way she had presented herself towards him. Seeing the respect he was being given from the ex-military woman, Zhuge Liang nodded in response. However, his eyes were on his daughter next, narrowing his eyes at her as he had been fooled by his own blood. He would have to deal with her later since there's a bigger issue at hand. At hearing a thunderous and reckless voice addressing him, Zhuge Liang turned to the man who seemed to have a gorilla as a companion. Figures. The two were similar in size and stature, though Zhuge Liang could tell the fumbling and rash steps that were made when they entered the room must have been from that big, bumbling oaf. "Well, it seems the Watch Agency is just like any other organization if you are seen as mere tools as the guards surrounding this room. Quite expendable then, if I must say? What happened to this . . . team work you so blatantly feed your hopes and trust upon. Are you not contradicting yourself now saying that you are just tools yet you now want your comrades back? What for? I'd give them back to you, if you wished and bargained, however, as seeing as this deal is not going anywhere and that your teammates have yet to be here, it seems we are all stuck in a bind, are we not?" He told the ape of a man plainly. At hearing the Phoenix's warning towards the man named Simon, Zhuge Liang chuckled shallowly as he shook his head in response, seeing how hard they were all trying to keep from angering him and were all on each other's toes. However, when N had spoke up, responding to his request, Zhuge Liang narrowed his eyes at her, "So you're telling me that you can not present them to me at this moment because they are asleep? Did not want to be disturb? How interesting, are you sure?" He asked her, raising a slight brow, not necessarily buying her words as he had an impassive expression on is face. The woman had taken Laohu, did she? So it was true that the man . .Simon had said they were only here for the girl she had taken from the Phoenix and Xiao Hui's companion.


But, as N had tried to explain to the Watch Agents, Zhuge Liang stood by his desk, observing the conversation that was going on between the woman and the others. He didn't have anything else to say and to add as he wished to be alone soon to think on his own. However, when N had mentioned that she did not wish to injure or harm any of their friends, was that the reason why his daughter had reacted such a way? He knew the bond between Xiao Hui and Laohu were strong, but he hadn't known it was strong enough that they'd feel each other's pain. Laohu was missing? Taken? Furrowing his brow, Zhuge Liang caressed his beard once more as she was lost in thought, only for him to be taken out of it when the woman called for his attention. Hearing her suggestion, Zhuge Liang hummed in response, "The greater good, you say? You speak of honeyed words that are farse, coated with venom, N. I must say, you're a contradiction on itself. The epitome of one if I must say. But, I will admit that your suggestion is a good one. Agents, you must be weary from your travels. I will grant you a chamber where all of you can be placed in together. We will talk again in the morning. You may go. As for your companions, I'll see to it that that they will be brought to you, once things have perhaps, settled." However, another burst of fiery anger from the Phoenix was in play as Zhuge Liang wasn't surprised by the matter. He ignored the creature, but the words she had spoken made Zhuge Liang turn his back towards his ever-present "guest" as he signaled a guard to come to his side. "See to it that these Agents have everything that they need, but they are not allowed to leave the premises. Go and bring them to their chamber. Also, Xiao Hui, go and see it that you tell those who are outside in the blistering cold that they are welcomed to come in as well. I'm sure they must be freezing out there." He said dryly to both his servant and daughter. Not waiting for any other response or words, Zhuge Liang turned around and walked pass N and the rest of the Watch Agent. He spared a slight glance at his daughter before leaving the room, closing the door behind him as he made his way to his own chambers. Zhuge Liang had a lot of things to think about and before he would summon only his daughter to him, he needed a clear mind before speaking to her.


Xiao Hui, on the other hand, watched as several guards followed behind her Father, seeing that only the woman named N and three of the guards remained. Ignoring the woman, Xiao Hui didn't have anything to say to her, if anything, she'd rather not speak to her, seeing how her sickening honeyed words made her cringe inwardly with disgust. She didn't have any business with her and would rather not speak to the woman who had taken her companion. However, before she left the room to go and get her other comrades, Xiao Hui turned to look at the woman, giving her a threatening glare, she needed to have at least one input, "If you put another hand on my companions and so much as touch another hair on their head, I will bury you six feet under myself or perhaps that's too nice and easy of a punishment." She finished, before she looked at her friends. . team . . comrades. ., giving them a wary and strained smile. "I'm sorry." Xiao Hui whispered to them as she made her way out the door of the room. Walking outside, Xiao Hui headed towards where her companions may be hiding, somewhere high and on the roof, perhaps. Making her way to them, Xiao Hui approached them slowly, keeping a distance between her and them. "Zoe. Alec. You may come inside. Unfortunately, we won't be leaving any time soon and the deal wasn't success, seeing that the deal wasn't brokered." Xiao Hui stated softly, before she waited for them to gather their things and followed her inside the building. Once she had arrived with Alec, Zoe, and Totus, Xiao Hui saw the three guards bowing towards her as she approached them. "I'll take them myself." She stated sternly before the guards bowed to her once more, apologizing for their actions, but they had to follow her and the rest of the team due to her Father's orders. Not batting an eye lash or blinking at the guards, she looked straightly ahead at her teammates, "I'll show you guys to your chambers. You'll be allowed to roam around my side of the mansion since. . there's plenty of rooms there, however, be careful not to wander off late at night, especially without a guard. My chambers will be the centered one while you guys will have the ones surrounding . . . . mine." She trailed off before she turned back around as she lead the group around the mansion. There were many pathways that lead to many different rooms as they passed by columns after columns that had supported the structure of the mansion.


Soon they arrived to her side of the mansion, revealing her own personal space that looked as if they were in another separate 'house'. But, everything about the mansion had been connected together. Her Father, her mother, and her brother all had different sections of the mansion to call their own. All of them had their own 'servants' and 'guards' protecting the place since the masnion was huge and had a lot of grounds to cover. As they arrived, Xiao Hui stood to the side to allow them to look around at the artifacts that were on the pathways and the rooms. Right in the middle of her side of the mansion, there laid a fountain that had rocks in the middle with some koi fishes swimming in the fountain. Some lilypads had grown on top of the water, but nevertheless, everything on her side of the mansion had been maintained and kept clean for her arrival back home. There were three chambers surrounding the fountain, the middle one was her own, while the two on the side will be separated by male and female. "To the right," she spoke up, "is where the males will be staying while to the left, is where the females will be staying. You are welcomed to walk around and walk outside around here, but again, don't stray too far. If you need anything, please let the guards or one of the lady-in-waiting help you." Xiao Hui told them softly as she nodded towards the three guards her Father had commanded. Once the three guards saw that they would be safe and wouldn't go anywhere, they left Xiao Hui and the others, bowing their head in respect as they walked off. Soon enough, her own servants and guards formed a line, greeting the teammate as they bowed their heads before them. Xiao Hui nodded towards them, speaking to them before they went off and went back to their work. Soon, a sigh escaped Xiao Hui's lips as she went to sit down. Her breathing became uneven as she tried to calm down her nerves as her hand shook slightly. She needed a moment to herself as she fought to not let any tears roll down her cheeks as anger filled her body. "I'm so sorry . . Lunesss. . . Barry. I'm sorry, everyone, I have failed to keep you all safe. . . I'm sure you have many questions or want space, please feel free to do so."




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@SilverFlight @zCrookedz @DawnAntalios @Lioness075 @Flutterby @Bolts @Kharmin @anyonelseimayhavemissed
 
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Luness watched Xiao's father react to everything, except her own words. It was quickly becoming clear to Luness that nothing she said would get through to this man.


Whereas, Manjano had already reached this conclusion and continued to remain silent. Nothing he said would change anything nor would it give the team any opportunities. Any they had to begin with had already been swept under the rug by now.


As Xiao's father concluded that rest would be the best idea for now, Manjano swiftly clamped Luness' beak shut, as he'd already felt the heat rising from her body once more. No matter what they did or said now, they weren't going to speed up the process of getting Leandra back. It would only make matters worse.


Listening as they were dismissed and Xiao's was put in charge of them, Luness seemed to calm for the time being, as she yanked her beak out of Manjano's grip and glared down at the floor beneath her.


Feeling Luness rip her beak out of his grip, Manjano's eyes widened briefly, though he relaxed when he saw she had nothing to say. That was good, but considering that she looked like she wanted to murder the floor with fire, Manjano was quickly feeling uneasy having her perched on his shoulder. How did his sister handle Luness 24/7? He kept having mini heart attacks!


Hearing Xiao's threat, Luness was mildly pleased, though she couldn't bring herself to even look at Xiao right now. After all, her father was the one in charge here and now Leandra was gone.


Manjano let out a small sigh, as Xiao spoke to the team, which meant things were over. For now, at least. As it were, Manjano didn't even acknowledge Xiao's apology. Until he saw his sister in person and knew she was safe, he could care less for any empty words. That's all apologies were to him anyways. If anyone were to hurt him badly enough to need to apologize, then they weren't worth his time.


On the other hand, Luness shrunk on Manjano's shoulder, her heart pounding, as she worried for her companion and everything around her seemed to fade away. All she could do now was worry and worry for Leandra. What had happened to her? Why had Luness felt that jolt of fear and then...nothing? Where was Leandra now?


Outside, Falarion heard Xiao's voice from within the vehicle and carefully climbed out in time to see her asking the team out here to join the others inside.


Deciding he'd probably not want to spend his night out here and alone, Falarion carefully made his way over to the gathered group and followed after them, minding his steps so he didn't anger his bruised ribs. Maybe a good night's rest would help speed up his recovery?


Once back inside, Falarion anxiously wagged his tail, as he approached Manjano, who showed brief relief in his expression before he nodded at Falarion and wearily eyed the now silent Luness on his shoulder. Even her feathers looked as if their shine had dulled, as her eyes now seemed to show centuries of weariness.


Falarion let out a small whimper at the sight of Luness, as he knew instantly that this meant Leandra was still missing.


Joining Manjano's side, Falarion then followed along, as the team was led to their temporary chambers.


While the others examined anything of interest in the pathways and rooms, Manjano merely stood near an empty wall with his arms crossed and a subdued expression on his face. Luness hadn't moved an inch on his shoulder since they'd left the big room earlier, and her eyes continued to remain on the floor. If one looked at her briefly, they may even think she wasn't breathing right now due to how still her form was.


Falarion wished he could cheer either of them up right now, but he knew as long as Leandra was missing, there was nothing he could do.


With this in mind, Falarion sat beside Manjano and anxiously pawed at the ground, his expression distinctively a troubled one.


Manjano glanced briefly at Xiao to listen to her instructions and then pushed off of the wall, as he began to make his way towards the males' quarters, only for him to realize that Luness was a female.


Pausing mid-step, Manjano worriedly glanced sideways at Luness to see that she still had that distant look on her face. It was as if she weren't even present anymore.


Uncertain of how to proceed, Manjano was still frozen in place when Xiao spoke up to the team with yet another apology.


Glancing at Luness for a reaction, Manjano wasn't all too surprised to see that she hadn't even blinked. He doubted much would register to her right now.


Falarion let out another whimper and folded his ears against his head, as he too realized how deeply hurt Luness was. This wasn't good at all.


Anxiously rubbing at the back of his neck with his free arm, Manjano then whispered to Luness, "Um, Luness, you can't join me in the males' quarters. Uh...maybe you could stay with Beth tonight?"


Instead of getting an answer, Manjano watched with dismay, as Luness suddenly flew away from him and landed on the nearest roof, her back turned to anyone below.


Sighing, Manjano turned away from everyone and Falarion quickly joined his side with a lowered head and tucked tail, as the pair retreated into the males' quarters and quickly found their room.


On the roof's edge, Luness could be seen hunched over and smaller than her usual self, as her feathers seemingly shrunk around her body and their shimmer faded in the night. What was harder to notice was the slight shaking, as Luness silently wept wit her tears quietly slapping the roof panes when they landed.


Her heart felt as if it were shattering into two, even her soul felt like it was being severed, and this wasn't even the first time this had happened to her. She'd lost a daughter before. Larassa.


It happened centuries ago when she was a younger phoenix and still learning to avoid humans due to their suspicions and legends of phoenixes.


She had mistakenly nested too close to a human village and not long after her egg had been laid, someone had climbed her tree and stolen it from her. She'd already named the unborn phoenix, as she'd had a motherly instinct that it was sure to be a daughter.


She never did learn what gender the phoenix was.


After discovering the lost egg, Luness had let out an unearthly shriek of anger and then swept through the village, burning everything and everyone she got into contact with. It was pure chaos. Screams were heard everywhere and fire filled both Luness' eyes and the lungs of all humans in the area, children and adults alike. Wild animals fled the area in a panic, birds rocketing into the air as their own nests and homes burned to the ground and crashed into the soil that had once nurtured the area.


In the embers of the village remains, Luness had found her egg...but she had been too late.


In the ensuing panic that had followed her rage-filled attack, whoever had stolen her egg...had dropped it. All Luness found were the shattered remains, which mirrored the way her heart had felt in the moment.


She'd remained standing over the remains of her egg for weeks after she'd found it. Soon the smoke faded away and all she was left standing in where the ashes and ruined soil of the village and surrounding area. She'd left a scar on the earth, which had bred the demons who had stolen the life of her unborn daughter.


She never thought she'd be able to forgive the humans after that.


Once she'd finally recovered enough to leave the area and leave her dead child behind, Luness had flown continuously for weeks. She ate just enough to keep her going and soon found herself crash-landing on the shores of Australia.


After wandering aimlessly along the continent, Luness eventually found herself flying over the twins, engaged in a fight with those signature bullies.


The moment Luness felt that twinge of life in her soul, she'd dove with fury into the bullies and scattered them, saving not only her future companion's life, but also the remains of her companion's fractured family.


That was when Luness felt her heart beat with true life in it again. She never thought she'd be able to feel that way again...but Leandra had changed her.


Leandra had given her hope.


And now...it was gone again. With it, Luness' fury faded. All that was left in its wake was the hollowed feeling of having lost everything all over again.


@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @crucialstar @Kharmin @Bolts @Flutterby @andujarprime @zCrookedz
 
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Everyone's emotions were starting to flare. It was obvious this was getting no where quick. With the presence of N, Umbra, Kitsune getting capture, and just everyone yelling.. it just made Barry sigh. Things were going to utter chaos quick and it seemed no amount of words were working. Even if he could speak, not even he could stop the constant verbal fights going on. It was obvious though. Out of everyone here, only Xiao Hui wouldn't let her emotions show. It was like looking in a mirror almost when he does the same thing. If he knew one thing about this technique, there was always things rolling in the mind. Words that needed to be said but would not be uttered. Of the spectrum, Luness was going all out with her emotions which were getting no where and same went for Xiao hui with her lack of them. Could he honestly understand their plight? Though BB was missing, not a single person of the captors mentioned a small bird. There was no proof nor reason he should believe she was in harms way. She was just lost in the other city right? He felt hollow yet not as much as those two.


Soon the conversations came to an end. It seemed there was no give on either side. Just sour moods and dishonored faces. They were quickly escorted off to a portion of the palace. Although this was the enemy for the time being, Barry had to appreciate the scenery. It was beautiful just being on the grounds. If it weren't for the looming threat, he would have felt this was even better than the hotel they were at not a few hours ago. As the rules were explained about the boys and girls sides, it seemed all the drama was finally settling in. No more outburst should take place now. They should start to ease their minds as best they can and understand their own emotions. He watched as Xiao made her way to the seating and sport her feelings finally. It was obvious she was holding them back but he couldn't allow that. Nothing would be gained if they didn't understand where she was coming from. He allowed her a moment of peace and thought before he sat down beside her. Wanna vent a little? I'm all ears. He signed to her. It was obvious that Luness needed more time to herself. She would most likely fly away from those who tried to interact with her. He would have to give her more time.


He truly wondered where Xiao Hui came from. It seemed like such an interesting place. Power, wealth, possibly fame? All that could have been in her hands. Yet, the small interaction with her father seemed to prove nothing here is really all too great. Pride gets in the way of many things. Sometimes even family. You don't have to though. I just felt I might know where you're coming from. If a little that is. He signed before allowing her to accept or reject his offer.





@crucialstar @anyoneelseinthearea
 
Not long after Simon had finished, the woman who had entered before, but Simon had not been very focused on, began to speak and reveal that the team would not be seeing Leandra and Laohu. Jimbo couldn't help but scoff at her tale of their teammates not wanting to be disturbed. Jimbo could only imagine that Leandra and Laohu were chained up somewhere in this place while trying to hold out until someone could rescue them. Of course, they would not show them that. Jimbo had suspected that the promise of seeing their friends was nothing but a farce, though it seemed to have been a surprise to Liang as well.


Simon continued to glare at Xiao's father after speaking. If it had not been apparent by now, Simon did not like this man at all. When he rebutted against Simon's words, it only made him dislike him even more. From Simon's perspective, The Watch saw every team as a tool to be used to finish a job. If the tool couldn't finish the job, then a different tool was needed. As he had said. But just because Simon saw The Watch that way, true or not, did not mean there wasn't teamwork. This team of people that stood beside him during every fight, every mission they had been on, was like family now. Simon trusted them with his life, as he had before Singapore. He knew the people at his side would have his back, just as he would have theirs.


Simon's thoughts were not able to be voiced, however, as another voice came and cut him deep. This one did not come from in front of the team, but from within the team itself. Simon recognized the voice and turned to see Luness' sharp glare aimed at him. Her tone was like glass and Simon could not help but feel a bit betrayed. After all, he was only doing what she had done moments prior. Jimbo, who had released Simon and was standing beside his partner mirroring his confidence, caught Manjano out of the corner of his eye at Luness' statement and returned his questioning glance with his own of determination. He was not upset with Simon for prodding Xiao's father. If anything he was proud of Simon for stepping up and trying to make Liang see that his harsh words of teamwork, where unfounded. While it was a bit of a brutish way for him to go about it, Simon had spoken from the heart and he would not fault his brother for that.


As the conversation between Xiao's father and the group seemed to draw to a close, Simon stood where he was for a moment as the rest of the group turned to follow Xiao. It wasn't until Jimbo gave Simon's arm a tug that he slowly turned to follow the rest of the group out. He remained quiet, not caring for the tapestry or the exquisite decor anymore, he kept his eyes low and his expression of anger about him as Xiao showed them to where they would be sleeping for the night. While the others split off to go and get rest for the evening, Simon walked away from the group towards the fountain in the middle of the courtyard. Standing by its edge he crossed his arms over his vest and watched as the fish within swam around in rhythmic circles. He could here Jimbo lumbering up behind him, and without turning around he spoke.


"Whats to stop me from going back down there and beating the snot out of that guy till he gives us back Leandra and Laohu?"


Jimbo said nothing as he reached into a pocket in his gun vest that was attached to the front and produced his phone. He slumped down on the cold surface of the concrete and began flipping through the phone before answering Simon.


"Well, let's see. There's me, Amber, Calista, the rest of the team, and about a bazillion armed gunmen."


Simon sighed at Jimbo's response. He knew the question was stupid, but his anger was not subsiding at the moment and he wanted Jimbo to know. The gorilla continued to flip through the phone as he continued to speak.


"Look Simon, this situation is not ideal in any way, and while I stand by what you said in there, I won't let you do something stupid enough to get you killed. Just calm down and let's wait this out. Remember what Pop's always said, A bulldozer can't fix broken glass."


At that, Simon glanced sideways at Jimbo and gave him a small smirk.


@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @crucialstar @Kharmin @Bolts @Flutterby @andujarprime @Lioness075
 
(Lame catch up post)


Totus continued flying high and looking for any movement, but he didnt see any. It was beginning to be hard to concentrate on his task though, as Beth was getting more nervous and upset by the second.


To say that men like Xiao's father scared her was an understatement. Beth didnt flinch at his actions, not even the slammed book, but she kept her eyes fixed on the floor and focused on staying in the room but invisible. If she did something wrong, what if she was punished? What if he didnt stop at striking someone? Beth bit her lip and tried not to think about it.


When they were dismissed, Beth darted in front of Simon, putting his and Jimbo's bulk in between her and the threat. She was beyond relieved that Totus would be joining her soon.


Beth followed the group, as Totus took the direction to join them, and took a cautious look around Xiao's section of the home. It was very beautiful, but her heart was thudding in her chest too much for her to really appreciate. Totus swooped over her head, and she smiled uncertainly up at him.


Totus watchrd Luness fly away from Manjano and land on the roof, shrinking into her misery. The owl pushed positive feelings toward Beth, but turned his flight toward Luness. He landed next to her, and glanced sideways at her.


"Your feathers are a mess. Leandra will think we didnt take care of you." He said softly, as he leaned over and straightened a little of her plummage with his beak. He understood that she was horribly upset, and in the back of his mind he was preparing to fly away from a pillar of fire. But being preened always made him feel better, so it was the only support he could offer without forcing the subject. And, she was perched where only another bird could get to her, and he felt someone should reach out.


@Lioness075


Beth watched as Totus flew to Luness, and basked in the glow of feelings he had sent her. She felt a glow of pride as Totus took it upon himself to be supportive of another; a few months ago he would have been annoyed by the very idea of it. Beth let him feel that, and then found a place to sit next to the koi pond as she waited for everyone to settle down for the night. She wanted a proper goodnight from Totus, so she would wait
 
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Hearing someone land beside her, Luness didn't react right away, as her mind still was mostly in the past. In her eyes, she only saw ash and smoke columns billowing into the sky above her, which showed no light now.


Suddenly, a voice broke through the silence and darkness, and Luness blinked, flashing back to reality to see the wet roof panes beneath where she'd perched.


Listening to Totus, whose voice she'd recognized instantly, Luness almost flinched when he began preening her feathers. When was the last time someone had done this for her?


In another flash, Luness was perched on a tree, which she distinctively recognized as where she'd nested centuries ago.


Hearing a chuckle beside her, Luness glanced sideways and instead of seeing Totus, she saw him. Her partner. Her first and only love. Chol. It was a biblical name, which he had been given by some humans, who had mistakenly worshipped him once before he told them all off and left them for being religious fools.


Remembering this, Luness almost smiled. Almost.


With a warm smile, Chol leaned over and began preening her feathers while pausing here and there to say, "You know...it seems that...no matter the years...you'll always remain...young and beautiful...to me."


Blinking at this, Luness' eyes watered again, as she then whispered, "I'm sorry. I couldn't protect her."


In a flash, Luness could see herself perched on a dead tree, watching as the humans fled their burning village, the screams echoing in the back of her mind. An inescapable nightmare...that she'd created.


Blinking again, Luness returned to the roof in the present and saw that she was staring at Totus now and had probably just spoke out loud to him.


Quickly looking away, Luness was quiet once more, as she continued to struggle with the clashing emotions within her. It was like a war raging inside her head and it felt like she was losing...to herself.


@Flutterby
 
As everyone made their way either towards the pond or the fountain with the koi fishes, the chambers, or stuck around the outdoors of her mansion, she watched as the others scattered to their own separate section of her place to be alone in their thoughts. Xiao Hui noticed the lack of acknowledgement from Manjano as she could have guess empty words meant nothing to him since his twin sister isn't back yet. At the same time, even she knew the meaning behind empty words because she, herself, was having trouble understanding what was going on. However, what was there to understand? Her Father, through whatever means, forced her and the other Agents here under the pretense of a kidnapping and a deal that he wanted to take place. But, what was it? Why was the woman beside him involved too? So many questions popped into her head, the same ones over and over again, until they soon became a mantra. Her Father would never trust anyone, much less, allow such disrespect and audaciousness. But, it seemed at least one of them was on her Father's good gracious: Raven. Xiao Hui had to hand it to her, she was brave as she was quite smart for playing it that way. Had she been in situations as these before? Did she know what her Father does? Who she is?


Her mind continuously wandered far off as her expression returned back to it's emotionless and impassive face, one she adorned only for her "enemies". The only thing she did know was that the only person who was allowed or even showed their emotions was Luness. Sweet, calming, nurturing, and wise Luness. Xiao Hui's heart ached as her stomach felt nauseous. She observed how crestfallen and defeated she had looked. However, at the same time, she knew there weren't any words in the dictionary or any words in the world that can describe the pain and suffering that not only Leandra's family was going through, but also, herself. However, would she ever allow herself to drop her walls and her guard? She never wanted to admit that losing Laohu made her lose all sense of life or hope. There was a part of her that was still holding back, mostly due to the fact of how she was brought up. Her Father could never understand nor would he allow such a thing. Some may call her cold or heartless, but deep down inside, the shackles of her walls were beginning to crack as she became more and more introverted in herself. Xiao Hui felt like an empty shell as her face lost all color and her eyes lost it's shine. She was like a soldier, waiting for her next orders to appear, perhaps, if she didn't get an order soon, she may just kill out of reflex and revenge. That's what she was raised to do, wasn't it? When would the questions end? When will the pain stop? Xiao Hui felt out of place as if she wasn't in her own body. Something made her skin crawl as she became uncomfortable in her own body. Who was she? Something made her want to claw her face off, her skin off, as she felt herself grow increasingly nervous and irritated. She wanted release, she wanted the suffering to stop, but how? How? A part of her held her emotions back, blocking anything and everything out, as she knew Laohu was still alive and so was Leandra. Something must have happened to Leandra, but what? Why was only Leandra's blood found and not Laohu's? What were they doing to them? A sharp pain coursed through her body as her abdomen inflared with another oncoming pain. She hadn't taken notice of since she left the bedroom. But, she didn't care, she didn't mind, what hurted more than physical pain, was the pain in her heart, as if it was bleeding. If she could, she'd want to rip our her heart away from her chest as she bit her lips. She tasted blood rising up her throat.


Now, more than ever, she needed him, she felt as if she'd go insane any minute now. Too many thoughts. Too many questions. Not enough answers. So much ache. So much hurt. Why? Xiao Hui desperately called for him inside her heart, mind, and soul. She was breaking, crumbling slowly in her own world, where everything began. When will this nightmare end? She sat there as her hands came up to the side of her face, her eyes widened in horror as her breathing became shallow. Xiao Hui felt a lump in her throat, as if she couldn't move, she couldn't breathe, she couldn't even hear or see correctly. Everything was just a big blob. She tried calming herself down, but to no avail. Xiao Hui nearly screamed, wanting to cry out in anguish but nothing came. Nothing. Just overwhelming tears that fell down her cheeks as her once strong exterior dropped ever so slowly. What laid before them was not the "princess" that held her head up high and commanded more than 20 legions of guards. What laid before them was a young, helpless, girl, desperately trying to live, trying to seek hope or some form of sign that the other half of her, the other half that made her whole was alive and okay. Without him, she was incomplete, she felt lifeless, dead, even.


But, what stopped her from furthering wallowing and withering away was the presence that managed to get close to her. Why? Why did someone come? Didn't they hate her? Didn't they detest her Father? She was her Father's daughter after all? How could he trust her to be so close to her? Her reddened cheeks and eyes found another's as she recognized him, ever so slighty, as Barry. Blinking her tears away from her face, Xiao Hui couldn't find the energy to sit up straightly, instead, she leaned, her shoulders sagging, and the once proud, gracefulness had disappeared from the figure before him. She read what Barry had signed before giving him a blank stare, one that looked as if she was seeing through his soul, giving him a piercing, broken gaze. Xiao Hui tried speaking, only for nothing to come out. She tried raising her hand to sign to him, but her hands drooped down, as she couldn't find it in her to try. Once more, she tried, taking all the strength in her to do so, she whimpered, "What do you know?" A hoarse, croaked, yet low and deep voice was heard, not sounding like the voice they were used to. She trembled, writhing under such questionable glance of Barry's gaze as she attempted to pick up a leaf that had blown next to her. But, she couldn't as if her muscles and reflexes were shutting down on her. Xiao Hui felt weak, almost, as she had not strength to withstand anything else. What was there to hold onto any longer? Her Father was going to abandon her. "I'm really am not who you think I am." Letting go of the secrets she kept, not caring anymore if it would endanger her comrades, considering they already are in danger, they had the right to know. She glared at the words she spoke next, though the glare only lasted before her eyes drooped lowly as she felt the weight of her own body crumble beneath her. Even her own body was giving out on her. "What do you know about Crime Families?"





@Bolts @Kharmin @zCrookedz @Flutterby @Lioness075 @SilverFlight @DawnAntalios
 
So the facad is melting away.. He thought as he watched her body posture and face change. It was saddening to see such a thing happen to what he had viewed as a chipper girl. He supposed he did not really know anyone here though. Each had their secrets, feelings, relations that they wanted to keep to themselves. He was no different. This wasn't the time to care about that though. If they really did want their companions back, everyone needed to be in the best mindset the could. This included xiao and Luness. He was happy to see Totus trying to help out the Phoenix. It just gave him even more time to try and help out Xiao as best he could. Opposite of her dispair induced feelings, Barry kept a pleasant smile as she spoke weak and rough.


She was obviously trying to direct her pain onto him. Questioning how he could ever know what she felt. How she was trying to push him away already so the blow to her mind would be eased of everyone were to leave her. That wasn't something he felt the team would do. They all saw what happened in the room with her father. They knew that her standing with him was not the best. He let her finish her interrogation of her own doubts. Allowing the tense air to settle a little before kicking it up once again. Sometimes life isn't fair and you just take an opportunity.. No matter how bad it will lead you. He signed to her.


He rubbed his scarf since his neck started to itch before he continued. It's true. I might not know the full situation you are going through. I do understand crime families though. He shifted to a more leasurly position as he recollect he thoughts. How much should he say to her. Could others read sign of they watched the conversation? How would their feelings be transferred. They knew xiao longer than he. He shook his head from these thoughts. It was about her right now. She needed to let her feelings out more.





It might not be by blood relations, but those who work close to the big man can be considered a family at times. So, you're looking at the second closest guy to a crime lord in California. Seeing what happened in that room... I can only imagine what would happen should they find out I'm not dead. He still kept his smile all the way. He wasn't sure if xiao would believe him or not. Still, it was the truth. Something that allowed him to understand a little about the inner workings of the crime world. So, I know how dangerous things can be from time to time. Though your father is more traditional in his work, they all boil down to similar practices. That isn't what I'm trying to get at though. I asked you if you wanted to vent. Let something out that has built up for so long. It could do wonders.





@crucialstar
 
Amber narrowed her eyes. The man would be impossible to deal with while he continued to posture. He offered to have them for the night, or commanded them to stay. That would have been more accurate.


"I don't suppose we have a choice." She said venomously. "So be it then." She said nothing more, knowing she was likely wasting her breath. When they were away from the majority of the guard, she would start planning.


Duik followed her through the doors of their quarters. "Well that happened." He said, examining the intricate ceiling and nearly making himself dizzy for it.


"Xiao...your dad is uh....nice?" He grimaced as he said the last word. "He didn't really look happy to see you..."


Duik felt a dark familiarity with the entire scene. It was not unlike what he went through by Alec's side.


Amber had listened to Simon found that his reaction to the happenings in that main room reflected her feelings precisely, but Jimbo was right, this needed precision.


"This isn't over." She said cooly when they were in the corridor leading to their rooms. It was partly to reassure Luness and Manjano and partly so that the others could see that Watch agents didn't just take things lying down, and Amber didn't abandon anyone on a mission. She watched sadly as Luness flew to one of the roofs. Now she really did feel like punching the guy right in his smug face...


@everyone @crucialstar (@Lioness075 @zCrookedz - mentioned)


"Zoe are you all right? You look like you've just seen a ghost." Alec whispered to her carefully. He noticed her shivering and took of his coat to place it about her shoulders.


"You also look freezing." He offered her a smile. "I'll take that back eventually though, Damn is it cold out here!"


They kept on listening, until Alec heard something that nearly made him drop his gun.


Daughter?! The revelation was like someone had just tossed him into a frozen lake. That...that tyrant was Xiao's father?! And someone of authority too from the way he tossed his weight around. He figured Amber must have been a master at composure not to slap this guy one up his decorated head!


It wasn't the only shock of the evening however because it wasn't long before they heard footsteps come right for them. Alec heard Xiao's voice and was completely flabbergasted.


"Xiao?! How did you...how did they see?..." But he decided to let it drop with his pride. Apparently he wasn't as stealthy as he thought he was.


After recovering from his initial shock at being unearthed so quickly Alec followed Xiao into the elaborate mansion.


"Well this sucks." Calista said flatly, not bothering to hide how she felt in the slightest. "We go to rescue our team, and the bad guy has us for a sleepover. This sounds like it could be in a Bond movie."


"We need a plan." Amber said as she thought while leaning against a stone fu dog that stood outside the girl's pavilion.


"If it was a Bond movie, this is probably the point that would involve a lot of alcohol." Calista interjected a little unhelpfully.


"Hey guys." Alec said blandly. His gun was already tucked safely back in its case by the time they made it to the others. He felt like a bit of a failure, but it looked like there were few that felt any better.


"Alec!" Duik cried and leapt on him, the little Kit mewling behind him as he tried to catch up. Alec ruffled the hyena's mane.


"So...big developments."


"Right?! How messed is this?"


@everyone


Seeing Kitsune he gave the fox a cross-armed glare. "As your doctor I greatly disapprove." He said loudly. He knelt down to the fox and said more quietly, "But that was damn ballsy. I respect that." He gave Kitsune a wink. "Need patching?"


@Kharmin


He quieted down as Xiao lay out their sleeping arrangements.


He noted the gender separation and made a face. "What is this? Band camp?" He said shortly, still a bit irritable at the fact that all his efforts at keeping out of sight had been completely ineffectual.


@everyone


The feeling melted however when he saw Xiao sat down with her shoulders slumped in a defeated manner.


The first thing she would see was Kit, held up just under Alec's chin as he supported the creature just under both shoulders, his long body wiggling happily under Alec's grasp. He smiled gratefully at Barry and sat down beside Xiao.


"He needs a bottle." Alec said with a hopeful smile, setting Kit on his lap and producing one filled with formula. He had packed a few in an insulated bag before they left...right next to his sniper rifle.


"So..." He began lamely, trying to think of a way to approach everything that had happened. "I guess I can see why you were so reluctant to talk about your past."


Kit began pawing for the bottle and made little squeaks of frustration.


"Take it." Alec encouraged, handing the object of Kit's desire out to her. "Its not your fault you know." He began to stare off into space, as if recalling a far-away time. "We can never really control what our crazy parents do...all we can do is...try to be better than they are..."


He let silence settle for a moment as he looked up at the stars dancing above the courtyard.


"For the record though: Your background doesn't change what I think of you." He gave her a roguish smile. "If anything it just makes you more mysterious."


With hindsight this was probably the worst time to flirt, but humour was the balm that Alec had learned to use the best. Duik had taught him that.


He winked at her. "You've got me with you till the end...for whatever that's worth."


@Bolts @crucialstar
 
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Simon continued to watch the fish swim around the little pond, slowly feeling the anger subdued after the ordeal with Xiao's father. He looked up at the sight of something out of the corner of his eye when others found spots around the pond as well. Beth seemed to be hanging in there, Xiao on the other hand, looked like she had just seen someone had just crushed her heart. Simon could only imagine what it was that was breaking the girls heart, not having one's companion would certainly take its toll on someone.


He felt better when Berry walked over to her and they began talking, but then he began to look for the other in the situation who this affected the most. He found Luness sitting on the roof, along with Totus. She did not look any better than Xiao. Luckily it looked like Totus had the situation under control, so Simon tried to relax a bit and turned his back to the pond and sat on the edge of the stone wall. He looked down at Jimbo, who was busy swiping left and right at something that looked like pieces of fruit on the screen.


The slight distraction was interrupted by the sound of Amber and Calista going back and forth and he looked up at the pair. They seemed to be talking about Bond, which made Simon smile at the pair before leaning back on his arms.


"I would not say no to a drink right now. That's for damn sure."


Jimbo tapped the screen and the fruit flying across it stopped as he glanced sideways at Simon. Simon caught the glare and he sighed as he slumped his shoulders.


"In moderation. Jeeeze."


Jimbo shook his head gently as he went back to swiping fruit.


Simon looked up at the sound of a familiar voice, to see Alec and Zoe returning to them. It seemed that Xiao's father hadn't been lying and had in fact known about their backup. This made Simon a bit upset, how were they supposed to make any kind of move now?


Simon lifted his head and stared into the nights sky, his breath coming out in puffs of wispy clouds as he breathed. Jimbo huffed as he pushed a button on the side of his phone and then slid the phone into his pocket. He looked up at Simon and then to Amber and then around the courtyard before he settled on Calista and Amber.


"So are we just supposed to go to sleep in this crazy place? I'm not sure how the rest of you feel, but I doubt I am going to get much sleep with men with swords wandering around this place."


@Bolts @Kharmin @crucialstar @Flutterby @Lioness075 @SilverFlight @DawnAntalios
 
Inside their room, Manjano and Falarion both shared a weary look. Not exactly Manjano's type of room and wasn't exactly welcoming considering they were quite literally forced to stay here.


Falarion limped ahead of Manjano and Manjano soon joined Falarion's side, as he helped his companion up and onto the not-so-soft, prison-like bed.


As it were, Falarion was exhausted enough from his injuries and soon curled up and fell asleep without a word to Manjano.


Manjano looked around the room briefly and soon let out a small sigh, as he realized he was too riled up now to even try to get any sleep with Falarion.


Deciding nobody else would be kidnapped (and that Leandra had most likely been mistakenly kidnapped since she had no direct relation to Xiao or Xiao's father), Manjano exited his room and quietly shut the door behind himself to give Falarion some privacy.


Leaving the males' quarters behind, Manjano soon reentered the garden area and noted that most of the team was hanging around the fountain area.


Not feeling up to any conversations, Manjano instead found a seat on the stairs nearby that led up to the males' quarters area.


Stretching out his legs and sighing at having finally been able to sit down after such a tense exchange with Xiao's father, Manjano then glanced about the area, as his eyes scanned for Luness.


Since Leandra was still missing, Manjano could only imagine how Luness felt compared to him. Manjano knew his twin could handle herself in nearly every situation, but after seeing her blood on the kitchen floor, he found himself growing increasingly anxious as time went by. It wasn't like anyone knew where she'd been injured either so her injury could either be minor or more serious.


Soon, Manjano noted Luness' presence on a rooftop edge nearby, though it seemed that Totus was keeping her company for now. Manjano didn't know Beth's companion all too well yet, but he hoped the owl knew what he was doing and saying.


As it were, Luness looked as if she'd just aged ten years or more and was most certainly heartbroken by the turn of events. Seeing this left Manjano feeling worse, as he moved his gaze to the ground in front of him and shifted his arms so the elbows were on his knees, which he pulled closer to himself, and his chin rested on the two forearms crossed over his legs.


Things certainly could've gone better. If only...


@AnyoneWhoWantsToInteract
 
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Luness flinched at his first touch, and Totus drew back, as she descended into memories again. Her eyes were glazed over, not really seeing him, even as she stared directly at his heart-shaped face. Totus was silent, watching as she struggled. He had seen that look on Beth's face many times, and simply let her come back to reality.


Luness mumbled something, it sounded like an apology for not protecting someone, but was it meant for him? He didnt know, and didnt hazard a guess.


Instead, he moved a little closer to Luness and sighed. "Hush now," He said gently, knowing how little words would console her. She was missing half her soul, and they could do nothing until morning. That was the worst part, the waiting.


The owl began preening her feathers, conscious of the fact she might have injuries. His beak straightened her feathers, little by little, and he tried to think of something else to do to help her. Contrary to popular assumptions, he was a terrible songbird. The only other thing he did for Beth when she was upset was bring her food, but Luness didnt look to have an appetite right then. Totus hesitated, settling on an idea but unsure. He felt a push of warm feelings from Beth, and decided to go for it. Still running his beak through her feathers, his voice a little muffled, but clear with the words, he began to speak:

"My mother told me a story, when I was very young. It is the only thing I remember about her, I was so young when I was taken by humans. The story went like this..


Long ago, the Creator looked out over the perfect world he had made, at the oceans, mountains, plains, deserts, lakes, and rivers and he was pleased. He looked upon the plants and trees and was happy at what he saw. Still, he felt there was something missing.


There was no movement, nothing to enjoy the beauty he had created. So he created the animals, birds, creepers, and fish. He made them in all sizes, forms, colors, and shapes. As he watched them roam over Mother Earth, enjoying the beauty of his creations, he was pleased with all that he had done. Life continued on Mother Earth in perfect balance and harmony.


Many moons passed, and one day the animals, birds, creepers, and fish called out to their Creator: "We thank you for all that you have given us, for all the beauty that surrounds us; however, everything is so plentiful that we have nothing to do but wander here and there, with no purpose to our lives.


The Creator gave great thought to their request. After a while, he showed himself again to his creations. He told them he would give them a weaker creature to take care of, to look after and teach. This creature would not be so perfect as his other creations. It would come upon Mother Earth weak, small, and knowing nothing.


So the Creator made man and woman, and all his other creations were happy. Now they truly had a purpose in life: to care for these helpless humans, to teach them how to find food and shelter, and to show them the healing herbs.


The humans, under the care of all, multiplied and grew to be many. Still, the animals, birds, creepers, and fish took care of them. As the humans became stronger, they demanded more and more from their brothers. Finally, there came a day when a human demanded more food than he needed, and the animal would not grant him his request. The man, in great anger, picked up a rock and killed the animal. From the dead animal the man discovered that he could use the meat to feed himself and the skin to cover his body. The bones, claws, and teeth would be his trophies to show the other humans that now he was as smart as the animals.


When he showed these things to the other humans, in their greed to have all that he had, they started killing all of their animal brothers around them.


The Creator watched them all: humans, animals, birds, creepers, and fish. Finally, he called the remaining animals, birds, creepers, and fish to him. The Creator told them that he had decided to take them all to his spirit home and leave the humans to rule over Mother Earth for a period of time, until they recognized the error of their ways.


The animals, knowing that the humans could not survive without them, begged the Creator to take pity on their human brothers and sisters.


Because the animals showed compassion and pity for ones weaker and less wise than themselves, the Creator listened to their pleas.


He said: "Because you are good and have followed my ways, I will grant you your prayer.


To protect you, I will no longer allow you to speak with humans or guide and protect them. I will make you afraid of them so that you will no longer approach them. I will create a spirit animal to represent each of you, and to this spirit animal I will grant one gift that he may use.


If a human lives in a good and kind way and follows my path, they may ask me for one of my spirit animals to guide and keep them on my path. This spirit animal will only come to humans who have a good heart."


And so, today we may seek the humans with a good heart, to guide and keep on their paths, to be their spirit guides."


As Totus finished his story, his voice grew a little softer, nostalgia for his nest and his mother washing over him.


"Im sorry too, Luness."


@Lioness075
 
Luness started slowly and rhythmically swaying her head back and forth, as her eyes welled with unshed tears. She should've protected her. She should've been there to keep her safe. Now she had not only failed once, but twice.


Feeling Totus preening her feathers again, Luness felt the past memory threaten to surface again, though she quelled it this time.


Blinking, Luness glanced sideways at Totus once more, as he began telling her a story that he'd heard from his mother. Hearing that it was the only thing tying his mother's memory to him, Luness tilted her head sideways at him so she could better listen to him.


Once Totus was finished, Luness listened intently to the change in his tone and voice before blinking in slight surprise when Totus apologized to her. What had he done wrong?


Straightening her head, though her body still remained in a resigned state, Luness then said in a quiet, scratchy voice, "What are you sorry for, dear? You've done nothing to wrong me or...or Leandra."


Shifting on the rooftop so she was facing the hurt team below, Luness then spoke quietly, "Nobody here has done anything wrong. Nobody else was there when Leandra was taken besides Laohu and he was taken, too. I only blame myself for letting Leandra leave my side while we were still working. I mistakenly let my guard down and I lost my companion as a result of that."


Pausing to close her eyes and catch her breath, Luness then opened them again with an exhale, as a few more tears rolled down her cheeks and fell to the roof panes with soft slaps.


"I'm the only one to blame here."


@Flutterby
 
Totus drew away and turned to look at the team as well, catching Beth's eyes for a moment.


"Im sorry for many things, Luness. That this has happened, that you and Leandra are apart, that Xiao had Laohu taken from her and is now suffering through this as well." Totus was silent for a moment, and then added, "We cannot protect our companions constantly, and Leandra is not lost forever. We will not leave this place without her or Laohu. The only people to blame are the people who took them, and the people who sent those people." Totus ruffled his feathers, and added in a darker mutter, "And we will make them pay for it."


@Lioness075


Beth watched Totus quietly, catching the words of his tale on the wind. She had heard it a few times; he knew a few old legends and told them to help her sleep. When he and Luness turned, she dropled her eyes respectfully, and watched the others in the courtyard. She wanted to help, but her back hurt and she was so tired. She just couldn't think of anything helpful to say.
 
N looked at everyone as they shot venomous, distrustful looks towards her. She could not blame them, they were enemies after all. This charade and pleasantries were a nice way to actually keep up a rather tense atmosphere which in turn allowed her to thrive, to feed on their anxiety. Just watching everyone being so much on the edge - especially that peculiar phoenix - made her satisfied. Yes, they were but beautiful fruits, ripe for the picking. And the harvest would soon be upon them, very soon.


The moment the noble chinese lord offered them rooms she smiled. She waited as the esteemed leader left the room before she turned to everyone, bowing courteously.


" I hope you will find the accommodations to your liking, agents. " she said while Umbra shifted uneasily on her shoulders. It has been a long time since he had seen such dangerous looks in his mistress' eyes. " I advise you not to stay up late though. You should conserve your strength for the... negotiations. "


With that she turned around and with a menacing smile on her face she vanished into the building along with her bodyguards.


@Bolts @Kharmin @crucialstar @Flutterby @Lioness075 @SilverFlight @zCrookedz


It took long moments for Zoe to realize that she was freezing - and was surprised when she was helped out by Alec.


" Uh wait... I... " she began, blushing slightly " I am fine, I really don't need the jacket either... you should be more concerned about yourself! "


Yet it seemed that her protests fell to deaf ears, since Alec did not take no for an answer. Soon, when Xiao came for them it dawned upon her that they were busted from the start... way to go with the camouflage, she severely underestimated her opponents it seemed. As they were briefed that they needed to go and spend the night with the enemy her eyes narrowed... she did not like this at all but it appeared they had no choice. She willingly walked back to the mansion with the jacket on her back, her face still being pale and emotionless.


" Zoe! " Eos exclaimed as he spotted the girl, rushing at her side " I am glad you are here... wait, what's wrong? "


The girl just shook her head, giving a warm smile to the stag which surprised him to say the least. She coughed, probably an aftermath of the chilly vigil they had to keep and then talked to the stag.


" You should go and rest, Eos. I think in the morning our reception will be much less welcoming. "


" But you... "


" I am fine. " the girl said again with a smile. Eos knew this expression - she was hiding a great shock or pain (or both for that matter), something she did not want to talk about. He decided not to pry this time and just headed towards his designated quarters.


@SilverFlight


Zoe walked the halls, searching after Alec to give him back the jacket - when she spotted Xiao and Barry sitting alone, together. The girl seemed very stressed out and sad, no wonder after what had transpired... and Barry seemed to comfort him with everything he could. She felt something churning in her stomach, something even she could not explain. She was glad that Xiao was comforted by the boy... but at the same time she felt something bad, a turmoil raging in her soul. She wanted to walk closer to them, to comfort them but she could not. Her legs did not allow her to. She just watched from afar, her eyes fixating on the boy and the girl talking.


Eventually she turned away, her hands clenching into fists. She knew not what came over her... it was nothing like she had ever felt before. Without noticing that Alec now joined the little team she silently departed, heading towards the designated room for the girls.


@Bolts @crucialstar @SilverFlight


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


In the rather cold and dark environment only one thing was certain - it felts like a trap, a place which was almost something which was certainly a tomb for those who knew not the way out. A place which was perfect for a little game of hide and seek - or treasure hunting. Perfect for the plans of Lady N, who now walked with a pompous, triumphant smile on her face, directly towards her... prize captives.


She entered the small, ice carved hall as behind a hidden door she finally spotted where her hostages were. She did not lie when she claimed to be unharmed: in fact the girl was wrapped into a thick, warm blanket so that she would not get cold. That the blanked was wrapped around her in a fashion which restricted her movement very heavily was but a formality on her part. Laohu was not bound so strictly, few shackles clung to his hind legs only - though those made sure that he was going nowhere. The little bird had a similar treatment as the girl - it was wrapped gently in a piece of cloths which did prohibit her from taking flight. N observed her wonderful treasure before she spoke up.


" Welcome to the playground, my darling agents. " she smiled " I am more than happy to inform you that the invitations had been sent out and the guests will soon arrive to this wondrous party of ours. Herein they will find many... fascinating things to play with... "


Her eyes narrowed.


" And hopefully, they will find you as well. "


@Lioness075 @crucialstar @Bolts


A dark shade of a massive bird soared through the night sky, clutching a bag of mysterious, discs like objects in its dark claws. Umbra's eyes flared in the twilight as he approached the mansion with lightning speed, doing the work his mistress demanded of him. Once he arrived above the building he unloaded some of his bag - the disc like objects fell all around the courtyard, the garden and some got stuck on the roof. He then swooped down, spreading the remaining in the interior of the mansion as the floor before the designated resting area - and generally everywhere where they were in plain sight was full of discs.


Few moments later, when the bird fulfilled his mission he flew high up in the air, screeching loudly. Immediately the discs started to hum and whirred to life, creating a holographic projection of N, who was now smiling at the gleefully.


" Good evening, ladies and gentlemen to this evening's presentation! " she exclaimed, raising her arms to the air, clapping as she did. " Tonight we will have a very special game for all agents willing to join us! It is a game we all love and all cherish: it is treasure hunting! "


@everyone
 
N had seemed to think of everything. The guards at their door had either been drugged or bought off, allowing the group to move freely to the garage where a vehicle large enough to transport all was waiting for them.


The coordinates given would take them back to Harbin and to the ice city, which by now would likely be closed, its splendid lights shut off for the night.


Alec sat in the still silence, his form on the bench in the dim light hunched as he set his elbows on his knees, his hands clasped before him thoughtfully.


Duik sat by him, guarding a well-fed and now sleeping kit between his front paws.


They rocked in unison as the truck rolled over bumps in the road.


"This chick is grade-A crazy." Duik offered, if only to break the dark silence.


"Agreed." Alec replied, the skin around his eyes was creased with worry. "And crazy is dangerous. Unpredictable. She wants something from us but won't say what it is...I'm wondering if she wants us dead."


"Why go through all this though?"


"Get us away from the boss? Artistic MO? Who knows? Crazy, remember?"


Amber said nothing. She was draped in shadow at the back of the transport, the expression in her eyes was directed at the floor, and it was seething. Anger had been building in her ever since the hotel. The fury at being manipulated again rivaled her dislike of this entire operation. If it was any consolation the information they had obtained from the club was now safely back at HQ and being extracted by their best. Perhaps to others, but Amber wanted to end this woman. Nobody screwed with her team like this.


Finally the truck dipped down a small hill and rolled to a halt. There were no windows so no one could see but the driver. When the back door was finally slid up they were just outside of the ice city, in a large depression in the ground, and standing at the doors of what looked like a maintenance tunnel, embedded into a natural rock wall. The chain and lock that had once barred entrance lay in a broken heap on a bed of snow. The door was slightly ajar.


"Not to risk sounding cliche," Duik piped up, "but I have a bad feeling about this..."


Amber drew her gun and stepped ahead of the team, her graceful figure, slid up against one of the doors and lifted her weapon before she shoved and the door slid inward.


She waited until it hit the wall with an echoing 'thunk' before peering carefully inside.


"Flashlights and weapons from the gear packs." Amber had made sure to pack what she deemed were the essentials: Flashlights, their weapons, working com devices and several explosives of varying shapes and sizes.


Alec pocketed his pistol and a small explosive device gratefully while removing a flashlight from the bag and shining the beam into the dim corridor. The entire passageway was coated floor to ceiling with ice.


"Well, that's odd." He began, only to hear Calista groan at him.


"You've now said two two of the most cliche lines before any character's death." She glared at Duik in addition.


Alec looked down at her with half a smile. "Not getting cold feet are you Fluff?"


Calista glared at him, "That's Fluff ma'am to you. You can mouth-off to me when you can out-hack me Rookie." She stomped off to stand close to Amber.


Alec rolled his shoulders. "Well good thing this isn't fiction then."


@everyone
 
Something caught his eye while he was allowing Xiao some time to process things. Zoe. She seemed to be mad about something. Perhaps angry that things have gotten too out of hand. With his limited interaction with her, she seemed to be the type to hate loosing people. Perhaps after he was done talking things out with Xiao it would be a good time to catch up with Zoe. After all, luness was in the care of Totus. The owl could probably be a pretty good friend to BB if she could get over her fears. At least for the teammates. He looked up to see how Luness and Totus were doing now. Something was off though. He gazed up to see what appeared to be a large bird of sorts. Something from its form dropped and landed in the area they were held. As if on queue a hologram came on. I knew that lady was up to something... He thought to himself a little annoyed. They had just arrived and already things are getting more out of hand. Guess it's better than making a stupid deal and then not getting our end of it. He thought as he got up and stretched. It was going to be a long night. That's for sure. He turned to Xiao. Well, looks like we will be getting our friends back faster than anticipated. We'll get him back for sure this time. He signed while still sporting the friendly smile. Don't think too much into my past. I'm here now just like you. I wanna make a difference and I wanna get our friends back. He finished before parting with a wave.


@crucialstar


Looks like the guards were out like a light. Some of them at least. By the looks some were missing. All part of N's plan it seemed. Well, there was nothing really keeping them there now. He walked up to the girls section of rooms. He came up and knocked on Zoe's door. He waited for her to come out before thumbing that something was up and it was time to go. He was sure the others would tell whoever was in their rooms it was time to go. It seemed that Zoe could do with some company for a little while. By the look of her before she walked off it definitely seemed she was angry. Barry could deal with angry. Actually, he could deal with the whole arrangement of emotions. His patience was like an iron wall. He waited before heading down with the others.


@DawnAntalios


It was pretty cold outside when they arrived. Before them was a strange doorway in some rock. Definitely not the start of a horror movie. He mused to himself as he dug through his supplies. Flashlight, knife, gun. He should probably work on his aim during their down time when they get back to HQ. That would be for tight spots. Lastly a working com. He put it on his person. He sighed slightly as he fixed it in place. He could hear but without BB.. It was pretty useless for him to speak in. There goes his mind racing back to BB. That little bird will get the longest silent treatment when he figures out where she flew off to. He waited for the next set of actions before making his own.


@everybody
 
With Jimbo's question being answered by the holographic form of the woman that called herself "N", he was most certainly not going to sleep anytime soon. After Simon had smashed about 10 or so of the holographic plates that had been dropped he, lost the interest of seeking vengeance on the discs and wished to obtain the real thing.


The pair followed the rest of the group, taking note of the guards that had not lasted or just didn't care that they were moving about the castle. Once they had loaded themselves into the van with the rest, the pair sat at the back waiting for the van to take them to where they were going. Hoping that Leandra and Laohu would be there and they could get their teammates back.


The van ride's time span felt familiar, and the grey cloud that hung over Jimbo was only broken by the sound of Duik. He glanced over to the Hyena, and then to the sleeping Kit at his paws. Jimbo had hardly noticed the little guys presence during the last few hours. That was good, if Duik could keep him out of sight and out of trouble till the mission was over, maybe they could get it back to HQ to find out what it was.


When the transport finally rolled to a halt, Simon dipped his head out and back into a familiar sight. Thought the lights had all been turned off now, the shadowy frames of the ice city where distinguishable against the backdrop of the city. The city had been so full of life and lights only hours ago, it did not hold the same level of wonder as it did only a few hours prior. Simon looked over the city and then back to Amber. She looked angry, a look Simon usually saw either directed at him or something he had done in the past. It was a look he knew all too well as "Amber is going to hurt someone."


Rolling his shoulders, Simon leaned his head to the left then the right with pops of relief as Amber called out for everyone to get ready. Balling his fists, he slammed the metallic gauntlets into one another with a metallic THUD. The whirring noise of the gauntlets came shortly after, small electrical currents could be seen dancing across the surface of the knuckles in the nights light.


Jimbo spun the cylinder on his hand gun before slipping it into the leather holster under his massive black fur covered arm. He glanced back at the sound of Calista's sass and smiled at her response to Alec before he side stepped over to Simon and waited to enter the tunnel.
 
Zoe was sitting in her room, pondering on what happened today. It was a lot they have been through and she still was not sure how to process everything, every little bit of detail. Her contemplating thoughts raced from the information she had learned today - it was so intense that her head started to spin when she wanted to recap everything - Xiao's true heritage, the mysterious, nefarious game of this strange lady... and those strange, other thoughts which kept her ability to see reason hostage.


She did not understand that last batch of emotions for she had never felt that way before. She was certain that it had to do something with anxiety - after all she felt it when she saw Barry, Xiao and Alec all talking together, comforting each other with their presence. She should have joined in in the discussion as well, to give them her words of ease, to help them overcome these difficult times... yet she opted not to do it... but why...


She clutched the jacket of Alec, still being on her back, warming the girl up. Somehow it made her feel at ease... everything felt so unrealistic, a facade: this situation, the cat and mouse game, the lies and deceit they needed to unveil and unmask - in this hostile, cold environment at least she had something, this jacket, which allowed her to cling to her feelings, a solid ground which allowed her to think that if anything her allies would surely help her.


But would they?


There were some things not even an alliance, a friendship could mend. There were some demons not even a group could defeat...


During her thoughts did she look up when she heard a crashing sound. Through the window of her room a small device was dropped on the floor which soon enough started to play the hologram message of that spiteful lady. Zoe's eyes narrowed as she looked down at the abominable foe of hers. Anger and disgust swelled in her chest as she almost crushed the device with her feet in her sudden ire. She restrained herself to listen to the whole thing and now she became fired up.


It was not the time to wallow and be depressed. They needed to act now.


Just as her thoughts were brought back to the mortal plane she heard knocking on the door. Turning towards it she quickly clutched her bow as she approached the entrance. She tore the door open and was prepared to fire...


But then her heart started to beat faster when she noticed who was standing in front of her.


" B-Barry... " she managed to say in a flustered rage as she lowered her weapon " What are you doing here? This is the girl's section, you should better be off from here! "


She noticed how the boy motioned with his fingers and she nodded.


" Indeed we must depart and with haste. There is no telling what that lunatic is up to. " she said, staring at the boy, curious " But if you knew that... why did you come and see me? You should have hurried to meet up with the others, I am fine you know. I need no babysitter. "


She said that, walking into her room to prepare her stuff. The truth was the exact opposite though - she was glad that the boy made an appearance - though unexpected it was - somehow it made her to be at ease even if just for a moment. She prepared her weapon and with the jacket on her back she hurried to find the rest of the team with Barry.


@Bolts


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


Cold.


It seemed to be the main theme of the day as Zoe felt the chill in her bones when they finally arrived to the strange destination they were supposed to arrive. She looked around but it was hard to see anything in the dark - the only thing she noticed was that everything was covered in a thick, icy layer. It was not the most welcoming sight but she could have expected something much more terrifying as well so for now she was content with the setting.


She looked around, analyzing what she could in the dim light of the flashlight. She had a foreboding feeling churning in her stomach and she took a few steps towards everyone to make sure they were not ambushed. She did not pay attention and bumped into someone. Looking up she felt a slight blush of shame tinting her cheeks as it was Barry she stumbled into. She quickly looked away, mumbling something about being vigilant and she resumed her watch.


In that very moment when everyone gathered a strange light pierced through the darkness as a holographic projection of N appeared in front of everyone again. The woman seemed to be very pleased that they have arrived and proceeded to walk up and down, looking at all of them with satisfaction - and curiosity.


" Welcome to my humble parlor, Agents. " she said, the sweet smile once again sitting on her expression as she did so " I am happy that you could make it - a game like this is very, VERY boring alone. Alas, we can start now! "


Zoe could be idle no longer as she spoke up.


" Enough of your sick games! " she hissed " Give our allies back you lunatic. "


" Patience, my darling. " N smiled again " First you must hear the rules of the game, no? This is for a prize after all. "


She snapped and the map of the gigantic labyrinth appeared before them briefly as she motioned at it.


" This constantly shifting, beautifully cold place will be the playground. Somewhere deep within your friends are hidden away, the ultimate prize will be finding them... and leaving in one piece of course. Many danger lurks in the labyrinth of course - traps and foes alike. It will quite be a challenge! However... a one sided game would be quite boring, no? "


She smiled.


" You see, among you there is someone who is my price. Someone I seek from your little band of heroes. My part in the game, you see, is to find that specific person and... settle the score I have with the person. So we can say that this will be a competition not only for you... but also an exciting hunt for me. "


She pulled out two small handguns from her belt, holstering them before chuckling.


" Good hunting, Agents. Pray we do not meet again soon. "


With that the hologram vanished and some faint lights lit up in some corridors in the labyrinth, signaling that the game has begun.


@everyone
 
Amber swore under her breath and Calista looked up at her, her tiny lips curled back in a growl of frustration.


"GPS links will be useless, the ice walls won't be mapped for us when we go in...Infra-red will be messed with the walls too, we'll have our com channels, but if this thing goes too far underground we'll lose those too...Amber, we're running blind."


"I know." Amber tried to keep her temper level. "But I'm not about to leave Leandra and Laohu at the mercy of this maniac."


She thought for a moment.


"All right every one, we're going in and were gong to split up, but I want everyone in teams. Two humans and their companions. Pair up and get ready!"


"So, wait, we're doing exactly what she wants?" Alec asked, more than a little concerned.


Amber spoke loudly so all could hear. "If we don't cooperate whatever happens to Laohu and Leandra is on our heads. She may even decide to kill one of them just to prove she isn't messing around. But I have faith in this team. All of this team. Be careful...and go kick some ass."


Amber finished re-loading her gun and stepped to the doors first.


"Who's in with me?" She asked as she waited for the others to pair up.


Alec looked at Duik, who wrapped a paw more tightly around the little creature Kit. "I dunno, this seems really dangerous for a baby..."


"And not going in might expose you to an attack out here. She obviously has surveillance around the whole damn place...I'd rather you were with me."


"And for once, I am not going to argue with that." Duik replied finally.


N's com buzzed with a call and a gruff, deep voice sounded on the other line.


"Is everything set? I see your players are all cooperating beautifully. Remember, your target is the most important death. Make sure it happens. Do what you want with the others. Drake out."


((mini post for instruction))
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Zoe's hands trembled as the hologram vanished. But not from fear. Anger, pure and unbridled, had washed over the girl as she saw N vanish in front of her eyes. The madwoman did not only kidnap her allies - she intended to play a foolish game with them to amuse herself. Her stomach churned in disgust as she thought about how nefarious and devilish this person was. That she was not sane was obvious - but being this aggravating... well it was not something she could tolerate any longer.


Eos probably felt her ire as he stepped next to her with a firm expression.


" We will make her pay, Zoe. " he said quietly as the girl nodded.


" Indeed we will. " she replied, looking at Eos who immediately recognized the face of the Ghost. She was not dead serious, and he knew that she will not stop until she settles the score once and for all.


Zoe turned to Amber as she spoke, walking up to her.


" I volunteer as your pair, Agent Strong. " she said with a firm voice " I swear that we will make her answer for her crimes - one way or another. "


" And I volunteer too. " Eos proclaimed, stepping up, bowing his head " Justice will be served, this I vow. "


@SilverFlight
 
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