Futuristic Eradication

[CommodoreOlaf]

As Novi leaned over to verbally retaliate the speeding man, Takeshi smelled that sweet aroma he had detected when they had first met, warming his cheeks and making his heart do somersaults on his rib cage.


"WATCH IT YOURSELF, DUMBA**!!" were the words that made Takeshi none but feel a sense of security with her, an odd effect he had realized was the first ever that originated from her doing. As she gave him directions, he thought to himself,


Wow, she's got some bite. Takeshi's suspicions were right. Not only was she candid and perhaps brutally honest, she was also loud. Maybe he'd get used to it. He bet with himself, it would be a long time for him if that happened.


Novi led him down the streets according to her directions, out of the Lower Class homes and into the Middle Class residences. The streets, once filled with hobos and rejects, were replaced as much nicer looking ones. The air seemed significantly cleaner and there weren't that many fences around, but the main structure that caught Takeshi's eye was the the man-made canal.


Stretching far into the distance, he hadn't the slightest idea of it's true length. The water, although not a special red or green color, was a calm original blue and it ran down the middle of the street. Takeshi wondered what it was for.


Parking in front of her house, he gazed at her building. It wasn't a mansion but it was a good size.


You could fit like four or five people in the there probably. Takeshi stopped and though to himself You could fit a family.


"Do you live alone?" It was a question Takeshi had been meaning to ask, but had forgotten multiple times.


@Agent Nine


((Sorry nine, I've been editing something for my friends and it's sooo time consuming))

 

[Auren]

Sammy smiled at the mention of the possibility of explosions. While she wasn't fond of when it happened, she did find the danger a bit exciting. Though, she wasn't worried about her compounds on their own. As long as nothing was mixed, they were stable for moving. She had to be sure this was so, otherwise she wouldn't be able to carry the chemicals from her lab at home to the one at the university. But, she did recall having a few that were likely to have adverse effects if shaken up.


"I'll make sure to keep my explosions a safe distance away from anything fragile,"she said and grinned. It was as close as a guarantee about the state of her chemicals as any. She followed Flynn into the car, her grin staying upon her lips. "Yes, yes, I don't mind. OH, this is great! I've never had a professional driver before!"she said. She wiggled with excitement and looked at Flynn. The thought struck her that she might seem a bit daft to him. "I mean, I've been in a car before. I take taxis all the time, and my parents have a vehicle for getting to their work. It's just... well, this is different, and so thrilling!"she nearly squealed.


When they arrived at the house, Sammy followed Flynn, looking at the house before them and the plot of land behind them. It was more space than she had seen any one person have. She watched when he grabbed the spare key and smiled widely when he spoke. She took in the house during her quick tour and the house smelled of money and new things, like unused furniture. She looked at the rooms before her, then back at Flynn, and then back at the house. "This is your home?"she asked, and her gaze went back to his.


"You don't really act the same as this place looks, you know. I wasn't expecting..."she giggled. "Well, I don't know what I was expecting! I'm pretty sure the last thing I had on my mind when mom mentioned the Love Harvest and matches and nonsense was that I had almost perfected some chemical experiment my professor had assigned me." She rubbed the back of her neck and started to walk about the room, pulling her goggles down. She put a finger on the side, seeming to go through some options before pushes the goggles back up again. Before exploring the home further, she turned towards Flynn. "You think your parents would let me use the basement? I don't want to burden your home,"she trailed off as if in thought before smiling again.


"So, what do you do for fun, Flynn?"she asked, wanting to get to know him while she looked around. She lightly tugged at him arm, so that he knew to follow her before she started to slowly walk around, opening the unlocked doors and even peeking into the basement.


@Flabbysaurus

 

[Agent Nine]

((That's okay. ^^))


Novi sat back in her seat and stared out the window, watching as the buildings that they passed by grew a bit larger and less cluttered. The transition from the Lower Class neighborhoods to the Middle Class ones was seamless enough, though it was obvious for one to tell which one they'd landed themselves in by the looks of the houses, alone. When the man-made canal came into view, protruding from underneath the familiar sloping street, the young woman felt the mixed happiness and dread that was normally felt when it came to returning home.


They pulled up in front of the house, Takeshi's Elder Mazda slowing to a stop a mere, few feet away from her front door. Gazing out at the four steps that led to her door, Novi almost missed his question.


"Do you live alone?"


Normally, Novi would have snapped at him. Or maybe, if it'd been another person who asked the question, she'd have waved it away and refused to answer. But Takeshi was building up a sort of reputation as a trustworthy person, so he deserved answers just as much as she did. The young woman was as fair as she was stubborn. "No. Aurie's an old woman who'd been assigned as my 'guardian' when my mom couldn't...take care of me, anymore," She replied, the words casual yet tinged by an underlying, barely detectable sadness. "She keeps an eye on me, I guess. At least, I'm assuming that was what they told her to do. She's not great at her job."


Without another word, Novi slipped out of the car and closed the door, heading down the short, cement walkway that led to the front door. She didn't really have a front yard, save for some small hedges fringing the walkway. The front of the house wasn't that remarkable, either, save for the welcome mat that had seen too many years of use. Novi dug felt around her torso, going for one of her pants pockets, only to freeze.


Dammit, her house key was in her jacket pocket...and the jacket was back at Takeshi's place.


Turning to look at him, Novi gave a "wait" gesture with her hand, then turned back to the door and knocked on it a few times. It took a little less than a minute for it to be answered.


Aurie wasn't as old as Novi claimed her to be. In reality, the woman was in her mid-fifties, with mildly-greying dark brown hair that stayed in a messy bun, a few strands hanging down at her chin. She wasn't much taller than Novi was, but a bit thicker. Her shapeless sundress and cream-colored cardigan seemed to enhance the tired look in her face, in which every wrinkle was stress-caused. The woman looked at Novi with pale brown eyes, though she seemed a bit surprised to see her. "You're back already...?"


"Just to get my things," Novi replied automatically.


Aurie blinked at her, quiet for a moment. Then her eyes drifted past the young woman to the young man standing behind her. Aurie smiled; it didn't seem as though she did so, often. "And who's this young man with you? Quite the nice-looking fellow. That computer finally snagged you a good one, didn't it?"


Novi lowered her eyes, grumbling something to herself as the old woman put her hands on her hips. "What's your name, young man?"


@CommodoreOlaf

​

 

[CommodoreOlaf]

Hm, a guardian? And again with her mother? As she spoke and led the way, Takeshi felt a sense of... empathy sneak up behind him and wrap long suffocating fingers around his wrists. His hand rose puppet-like, as if controlled by his heart strings, to touch her shoulder; to squeeze some sort of subtle understanding of their mutual troubling histories, but he stopped. Her knocking of the door released him from the empathetic grip.


Aurie was home then.


Coming to the door was a sightly, older woman whose expression reminded him of a widowed but nonetheless content grandmother, enduring the ups and downs of life. Takeshi had correctly assumed it was Aurie as she spoke to Novi in the familiar tone acquaintances possessed when encountering each other. Inferring from their short and far from energetic conversation, that was seemingly the extent of their relationship and it caused Takeshi to wonder how well the two really got along.


Upon the sight if Takeshi, her wrinkled face conjured a smile. Her face used lines of which seemed to have been faded away, forgotten over the years, not because she forgot, but there were no reasons to.


"And who's this young man with you? Quite the nice-looking fellow. That computer finally snagged you a good one, didn't it?"


Takeshi smiled back, it was the polite thing to do.


"What's your name, young man?"


Takeshi walked up behind Novi, extended a hand, nodding his head once out of respect, and said,


"My name's Takeshi Oshiro.. I'm just here to help her move in.. with me." Saying that produced a knot in his throat with which he recovered from but was noticeable.


"You have a-uh.. a nice place, Ms. Aurie."


@Agent Nine

 

[Pequeno Burraidh]

(Tobias)


Well, good news was that he had found his match in roughly 20minutes. Bad news: he got matched up with a soldier, and a rather hardcore one at that. Toby signed inwardly, looking down at the girl warily while mentally crossing off his options. Screw it, he thought. He had other matters to attend to that was infinitely more important than this. He'd do something about her later.


He bowed with mock respect, an insincere smile forming on his lips: "Tobias Syrus, Upper Class, at your service. It's an honor to have such a beautiful lady as yourself as my wife." He stood aside and gestured to the door: "After you, my lady."


_______


(Artis)


Artis watched Tobias with growing contempt as his features shifted to bullcrap excuses of happiness and respect. She'd dealt with this type before, but still, there was no reason to immediately start off poorly. Looking up only a couple inches, Tobias' low bow actually putting them closer to the same height at the moment, she pat his arm and smiled before bending down and lifting her collar.


"Hehe, nice, you're so excited you forgot we have to get these collars off and registered before we can go." she almost laughed, perfectly hiding the analytical side of her that was calculating exactly how to handle this man. Grabbing his hand, Artis nodded towards the tables in the room, "C'mon, let's go make this official, then we can head out! Oh, and I'll need to get my bag from outside when we leave."


_______


(Tobias)


Toby raised one amused eyebrow at Artis. She almost sounded playful and innocent. Almost. Under the fake cheerfulness, he thought he caught her appraising gaze sweeping over him, but he couldn't be sure. Either he had a young unknowing officer on his hand, which he highly doubted, or he had one hell of a woman that promised a world of trouble. For a moment, he wasn't sure how to react.


The moment passed, and he figure if she wanted, he could play her game. A fake smile appeared on his lips to match her, his interest slightly tweaked. "Of course. I apologize, my mind just went all over the place as soon as I saw you."


Toby reached up and removed his collar from his bicep, throwing it distastefully into the lap of the person at the registration table, who jumped in suprise. He had promply skipped the whole line of Upper Class (which wasn't very long) who were waiting for their turn, all of whom were more than kids who had nothing to their name but their parents' reputation. Many of them gave him hateful glares and a few threw rude words at him, but he ignored them all. Couldn't blame little brats who didn't know their place.


The man at the registration table apparently knew better, because he hurriedly turned and worked on Toby's paperwork first despite the protest of the young couple at the head of the line. In no time, he and Artis were passed. He parted with her at the entrance to the changing rooms. "Please meet me in front of the main entrance in 10 minutes. I'll have your car ready by then." He gave her another smile as he typed the instruction to his driver.


10 minutes later found Toby waiting at the main entrance next to the limo he arrived in and another car he had called to take his future "wife" wherever she wanted to go (away from him).


_______


(Artis)


Artis jogged around the corner from where she had entered and hidden her bag, now hiked over her shoulder. She still wore her white bodysuit, and would change later, but Tobias wanted to go in a hurry, and she figured he had somewhere to be.


Rounding one more corner she saw him waiting next to a limo, wearing a nice, obviously custom tailored suit.


'Oh, fancy man, with a fancy car. How quaint.' she thought.


Jogging up to the limo, Artis noted that Tobias seemed to be gesturing her to the other car, but she was not about to be driven off somewhere boring while he actually got to do something. So she walked right past the chauffeur that opened the car's door for her, giving him a faint nod, and walked right up to Tobias, giving him a huge smile before swinging the limo door open and sliding inside.


Quite frankly she didn't care how angry this made him as much as she cared about getting out of this stupid bodysuit, and she began pulling at the zipper before anything could be said.


_______


(Tobias)


Toby opened his mouth to object, but Artis just walked right pass him as if he wasn't there. He scowled and looked to the chauffeur, who just shrugged helplessly. Noone had ever ignored him like that in his life, not since he was 18.


Toby looked at his watch one more time. Crap, he had exactly 24 minutes to get to the meeting, and he was not ready to waste any minute arguing with this incarnation of trouble. He motioned for the driver to get ready and got in after her. As soon as the door was closed, the car surged forward, again threatening to break the speed limit.


His scowl deepened as he saw that she was changing inside. The space was plenty large enough, but still, had she no sense of shame? His eyebrows shot up as soon as he saw intricate designs of tatoo covering most sections of her exposed skin. Good girl, crossed. Submissive and kind, crossed. Trouble-maker, potential pain in the ass and bad girl, check. He deliberately looked away without comment, although his face flushed just the tiniest bit.


In no time they were there. Exiting the car, he was greeted with the sight of a group of 5 awaiting him, 4 bodyguards and the secretary.


"We have been expecting you, Mr. Syrus. Mr. has been waiting. Please, allow me to lead the way." The scrawny man gestured. "After you."


There was something not right, Toby thought. He was still right next to the door, blocking Artis' from view, but even from that distance, he could sense something that made his stomach dropped. The secretary's smile seemed unsincere, while the bodyguards are a little too tensed. Toby briefly reconsider joining the meeting.


Nonsense, he thought to himself. He must have imagined that. It'd be stupid to go back on a sweet once-in-a-decade deal like this one just on a hunch. Turning, he bended and said to Artis: "I have a meeting to attend, something so boring I'd not allow a lady such as you to suffer. Please stay in the car, I will be back shortly. If you need anything, just talk to the driver, he'd gladly provide anything you need." Turning, he nodded to the man in front of him. "Please, by all mean, lead the way."

 

[Jays]

(Artis)


Artis pushed down the urge to laugh at Tobius, noticing his attempt to hide the fact that the 'big bad businessman' was embarassed by someone changing. Once you've seen one military tough in the shower, well, to be frank, all people really are the same.


A short while later she was comfortably clothed in a black tank top, black calf high combat boots and black cargo pants. Layered over that was the same belt from earlier. As she was replacing her Bulldog in it's holster the limo rolled to a stop. Letting Tobius take the first step, since it was his meeting.


Her new husband stepped outside and greeted the gentlemen, telling her to stay in the car. Seconds later he walked away with the men, and as he did so Artis watched one of the guards fondle his sidearm. Something that she recognised as what many of the other greener soldiers did before a shoot out.


"Driver, I need your jacket."


"My jacket, madam? I can give you my jacket, by may I ask why?"


"Oh yeah, definitely. You see, I'm just going to put on your oversized jacket to hide the fact that I can probably kill most of those security toughs with a rusty spork, then go kill the security toughs. Not with a rusty spork though. Too messy." Artis smiled easily as she took the jacket from the driver and slid it over her shoulders, effectively hiding her sidearm, ballistic vest and her rifle.


As she stepped out she made her way toward the building, noting one guard by the door outside, about two metres tall and easilyquadruple her weight. So the standard overly tall, overweight tough meant to intimidate with his size, but not actually that fit for a fight.


Giving him a worried smile, she began to regail him with a tale of how her father had walked into the meeting, but forgotten to take his medicine. Already she could see the man's face softening.


This was almost sad.


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


(Tobias)


Toby scowled the countless time that day, somewhere at the back of his mind worrying whether or not it might leave permanent wrinkles on his forehead. Somehow everything was going wrong that day, and no matter how much he tried, he couldn't shake off that feeling of his stomach tightening.


The secretary led him into an elevator which brought them onto the 30th floor, Wasn't Richard Sterine's office on the 25th floor? Something was definitely not right, but it was too late to turn back then, so he had no choice but to follow. The escort of 4 around him was silent, their eyes hidden behind dark shades so he couldn't tell what they were thinking. His palms started to sweat, his heartbeat accelerating.


The 30th floor was almost bare, only blankly painted walls and empty half-built office which showed no sign of recent occupation. The secretary went straight through a series of half-lit corridors which finally ended at a metal stair. The door at the top of the stair opened into the rooftop.


As soon as they stepped out onto the rooftop, the 4 body guards spanned around to form a semi-circle behind him, effectively blocking the way back. Toby scanned the rooftop, but saw noone other than himself and his escorts. The open space was almost empty except for 2 huge air-conditioning machine and a few air vents opening. His blood ran cold.


Keeping his voice even and calm, he addressed the guide: "What is the meaning of this? I have a meeting with Mr. Sterine and you're making me late for it." The man slowly turned, his lips windening into an ugly smile. Toby shivered, and not from the howling wind that whipped his jacket about and into his sweat soaked shirt.


"Why, Mister Syrus, I thought you were smarter than that." There was a dark twinkle in the man's eyes. "You have quite a reputation, Mister Syrus, if I could say so myself. Infamous, in fact, especially with your phenomenal ability in cutting deals and making connections. You have grown your business from a small corporation into a force to be reckon with within years. A genius, so everybody says. Your ability had not gone unnoticed."


Toby's heart was pounding so hard it threatened to burst out of his chest. Adrenalin pumped accross his body, making him shudder in anticipation. He knew exactly what the man was getting at, and he knew how much of a chance he had. Not much.


"You, Mr. Syrus, is very special. You have officially become a threat to Mr. Sterine, a list that can only be counted by fingers. And you have done so extremely young, with so much more potential to grow. It had been decided that you need to be...taken care off." The secretary grinned joylessly, showing hints of an uneven rows of teeth and one golden tooth.


Toby was trembling at this point, his head light spinning from the fear and adrenalin. He swayed just a little, his mind became tunnel visioned that focused on only one goal: survive. All of the other thoughts were washed out of his mind, overwhelmed by the survival instinct. He needed to stall.


"Come now. Surely Mr. Sterine would not feel threatened by a nobody like me. This is a horrible joke."


The man's grin widened even further. "Oh, I assure you, Mr. Syrus, this is no joke. You should feel honored, being held in such high rega...."


Toby broke off running half-way through the man's speech. Not only did his timing caught everyone else off guard, his direction confused the bodyguard temporarily: he sprinted right AT them. His legs pumping, the energy of fear and desperation pushing him to a limit he couldn't have match at normal circumstances. He had always been fast, and at that moment, the bodyguards only had a single moment of confusion before he crashed into them.


He had always thought that he could fight well, and he could probably hold his own and escape against one guard. Against 4, he had no chance. Surpise was his only weapon, and it only gave him one tiny opening. Toby took it.


Before any of his captors could recover, he threw a right hook at the closest one's face, stunning him and threw the guy to the ground. These men were good, snapped out of the suprise attack within a second. The others were already having their gun drawn half-way and moved to cover the door leading down. He would never make it. But he did not intend to.


Toby leaned down and snatched up the gun of the stunned guard. As the others moved for the door, he instead turned and ran for the only cover there was: the air conditioning machine. He sprinted with desperately, diving behind it just a bullets smacked onto the ground he had just been a moment before. He was safe, for now. He knew that he had bought nothing but time.


"Come on Mr. Syrus. Don't be stubborn. You know there is no way out. Why delaying the inevitable? Just come out and get it over with, I promise it will be painless, I can offer you that much."


He could hear the hit bodyguard regaining his feet with a few grunts. They started advancing slowly, wary of the gun he held, their boots slapping on the roof floor sounded like gun shot to his terrified mind. Toby shakily wiped some of the pouring sweat off his face. For the firt time in his life, he prayed. Dear God, he thought, if you are there, send me a miracle. Because nothing short of a miracle could save his life now. He was going to die.


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


(Artis)


Artis idly wiped some blood off her knuckles as the elevator hummed beneath her.


At her ten was the tough from earlier, the bloody nose still running like a tap. Resting easily against the man's leg was her other hand, her Bulldog's muzzle resting easily against a very precious spot for the tough. Only a little while later it jerked to a stop, and as the doors opened it revealed the four tough's from earlier. Three were still armed with handgun's, the fourth held a chain.


The quartet turned for a moment and locked eyes with toughs. Then she took action. Three muscles worked as the Bulldog let out a sharp bark, the tough at her ten letting out a scream of anguish as he fell forward. Angling the falling man into the opening so that the doors wouldn't close, Artis jerked sideways and hid behind her makeshift human barrier as the toughs opened fire. The tough she's ridden the elevator up with was most assuredly dead now as the other toughs emptied their magazines.


As soon as the tell tale clicks of empty firearms filled the air Artis rolled over her bloodied barricade and leveled her Bulldog easily at the first tough, then the second, then the third, putting each one down with ice cold precision. The fourth tough, though, took that time to close in, swinging the chin with a frenzied cry.


Ducking into a backwards roll, Artis came up with the realisation that she'd dropped her pistol. Shrugging, the soldier drew her combat knife as the tough went through a show of waving the chain around to show how skilled he was. Intimidation was not a smart tactic to use on he. Ignoring the show, Artis charged forward and leapt into the air, grunting as the links of the chain slammed against her ballistic vest. At the same time she sank the blade into the mans neck, rode his corpse to the ground, rolled off him and came up pulling her covert rifle from her back.


The whole ordeal left two men on the roof. Tobius and the secretary, whose pants seemed effectively soaked from the crotch to the knees.


Giving Toby a smirk and a wink, she spoke.


"Maybe next time I should set up on an opposing roof. Also, never tell me to wait in the car."


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


(Tobias)


Toby was left speechless. God HAD actually sent him a miracle, one he did not see coming. He knew Artis was a soldier, but not how good she was. She had taken down an entire squad of ex-military in no time with nothing but a handgun and a knife, not to mention the bodies in the elevator, no doubt a few others of her victim. He had gotten one hell of a wife, one he wasn't sure to be thankful or to start planning her assasination. Hell, it might be easier if he could fake his own death to escape rather than to take this girl down. For the moment though, he kept his mouth shut and returned to the problem at hand.


Toby's face lost all emotions, becoming a cold mask of menace as he turned to look at the secretary. Keeping his burning gaze on the man who seemed to be too scared to speak, he turned on his phone and spoke into it.


"Mason, contact Gargoyl Security and ask for their best men. 18 of them. I don't care how much they cost, just do it. Yes, tell her it's me and ask for Harrison Gargoyl himself. Tell him his debt is due, he will know what to do. Tell him my emergency code, today's code is "Trouble Havest". Send 6 men to Sterine Industry and the rest to my mansion to set up a security barrier. I want a full security sweep, scan, hound, EMF bursts, everything. Yes, right this moment, Mason. You have 10 minutes, and if those 6 bodyguards had not reached Sterine Industry by the time I get off this damn roof, you WILL wish your father had never gone through puberty!"


He was yelling at the end, to be replied by the trembling voice of his assistant who promised to run like hell to do his wishes. Finally breaking gaze with the terrified man in front of him, Toby leaned down to retrieve Artis' hand gun and hand it back to her, not before scooping up other men's firearms and threw them into the vent.


"Is there a way we can leave this building undetected?"


"I...I'm no...not telling you anything!" The secretary managed in a shaking almost broken voice. Toby quirked one eyebrow and looked at the edge of the roof meaningfully. The man's eyes got wide and finally he pointed down the stair.


"Down the hall, turn left. There's a staff elevator. It's lunch time so there will be noone using it."


Toby smiled a brilliantly cold smile.


"Thank you. Was that so hard?"


Suddenly, he closed the distance, grabbed the man's collar and shoved it down the vent. There was only a small opening, but the man was relatively small himself, and after a few pushes and stomps, the secretary fell further down and got stucked half-way in the tiny vent.


"Mr. Sterine will not stand for this, you know. He will come for you." His voice was weak and muffled.


"Good, I'm expecting him to. Let's see who has bigger balls, that bastard or me." Toby spat. Without further word, he turned and marched toward to staff elevator, striding quickly across the empty hall way, only slowing once to wait for Artis to catch up to the elevator.


After a short awkward silence, finally he managed:


"I guess I...uh...I have to thank you for....uh hum...assisting me back there. You were of great help. Thank...you." It was one of the hardest thing he had to say in his life, and this girl made him do it the first day they've met. Not a good sign for his future mental health.


As he had asked, the squad of bodyguards were all present where he wanted them to by, all average in size and stood still like statues, waiting for him in front of the uneasy driver. He nodded to them once, and that was their queue to act, 3 moved back to their cars, while the other 3 ushered him in the limo with Artis. He kept silent the whole ride.


The butler opened the door to reveal an animated mansion, with confused staffs and tech guys crowding everywhere with scanner and electronic detectors, sweeping his mansion for bugs and spying signals while at the same time upgrading his surveillance system. Toby had always knew this day would come, so he had planned everything in advance with Gargoyl Security, one of the best Security businesses in the country whose owner owed him multiple favors. At a moment's notice, his house was to be turned into a fotress and his person guarded day and night. Toby was nothing if not self-preserving.


"David. Please show Miss Latharnach to her quarter and transfer Tess' position to Miss Latharnach's private maid. Her every need are to be satisfied. Miss Latharnach, please feel at home. Just ask any of my staff anything you want."


He had previously set up a room for his future wife, the best one in fact, decorated and prepared with every girly and woman-like items and function he and his contracter could think of, completed with pink walls and pink everything. Of course, that wasn't going to work in this situation.


"And..uh...David. Prepare the Gentleman guest room as well, just in case Miss Latharnach fell...a little too overwhelmed with so much luxury."


He had deliberately set up her room as far from his as possible. He was supposed to spend the next 3 days getting some intimate time with his "wife", but yeah, not gonna happen, especially with a serious problem arising. The Gentleman guest room was decorated for man, with normal walls and normal furnitures, and it's also a few doors down from his quarter. He didn't like the idea of her being near him much, but he would dislike her destroying his mansion even less.


"That would be all. Miss Latharnach, or should I say Mrs. Syrus now, please follow David here. You're free to explore my home, of course, as it is now yours as well. I'll be in my room if anything happens, David. Tell me when the sweep is done." Just to be sure, he added. "One of you..." He pointed at the surrounding bodyguards "...stick with her. Guard her as you would guard me."


He turned and hurried up the stairs for his room.


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


(Artis)


As Artis watched him walk away she turned to both her 'guard' and David. She followed for a few steps before rolling her eyes and putting hand on David's shoulder.


"How girly is the first room. On a scale from one to 'omigosh,itssofluffy!'?"


David stood unsure for a moment before replying that it was the latter.


"Cool, uhm, mind leading me to the roof for some air then?"


David nodded, and on the way up they passed the room, which was indeed quite girly. Once on the roof, parts of it flat like a terrace, Artis smiled and ushered David away. That left her and the guard. Smiling, she felt around in her pack for a few moments before wrapping her hand around the familiar shape of a foam grenade.


Pulling the pin, Artis tossed it towards the man with a 'think fast' and watched as he caught it and was almost immediately swallowed by foam. Breaking his eyes and nose out so he could at least breath, Artis laid out her things, pulled off her boots, and then laid down for some sleep.


Maybe being here wouldn't be that bad.

 

[Agent Nine]

Still smiling, Aurie took Takeshi's hand and gave it a couple of slow shakes. The older woman opened her mouth to respond, but was quickly cut off by Novi, who seemed to practically be bristling as she stood aside the two.


"Yeah, she lives here, but it's still my house," Novi half-barked, shouldering her way past Aurie so that she could get inside. A moment later she stuck her head out the doorway, signaling for Takeshi to come inside. The older woman glanced back at her before turning her attention back to him, the smile on her face having dwindled. Now it was forced. "She's right. I'm not the original homeowner. But I appreciate the compliment," She said, moving to the side so that he'd be able to walk in.


The living room was directly ahead, a nice-sized room with beige-colored walls, hardwood flooring, and a few cushioned armchairs that sat around a short, wooden table that housed some books, all on top of a light brown rug. There were a few bookshelves nearby, and a shelf or two covered in photos and trinkets, but that was about it. Straight ahead was a doorway that Novi walked through; she was headed for her bedroom, leaving Aurie and Takeshi to their own devices.


Watching her go, Aurie stood still for a moment before sighing. "So, you say she's moving in with you?" She commented, a sudden exhaustion settling into her voice. "That's good. It'll be...it'll be better for her. To get away from the house, I mean."


Then Aurie frowned. "I'm babbling. Sorry. You're her future husband, after all. If I don't tell you these things, you'll never know."


@CommodoreOlaf

​

 

[Hanzax]

Hans Grøngaard @Syrenrei


Hans stepped outside and locked the door behind him. Hopefully it'd be the last time he would have to move to anothers home. "I guess it's your turn to lead the way." Hans smiled as he popped open the boot to his car and loaded the suitcases inside. There was bound to be more than just lunch waiting for them from the little of what he could understand of her coversation. He didn't really know what to expect of her home. She appeared to be a very educated and self-aware woman so it would bound to be something more moderate than a manshion requiring a swimming pool of water just to fill the plumbing.


Sitting down in the familiar interior of his car he turned the ignition and put it into gear. It was a rather strange feeling living ones own home that you had be responsible for. It is far different than leaving the home that ones parents had built up to protect you. This time it's something you have built to protect and harbour ones own life. All in all it's just another thing lost alongside Fredericia and his father. Losing things isn't as detrimental as one might think once one thinks about it. Losing someone or something only brings grief to one's self, where as losing oneself bring grief to all those close to one.


Driving a car was somewhat relaxing. Everything flowed together systematically and one could expect nearly any event possible. If one shifted up into a higher gear it'd drop the rpm and therefor result in a loss of power. On the other hand if one were to shift down it'd have the results that were expected. Although actually watching the rpm gauge would be tedious and boring one could follow what the car said. Slowly growing louder and louder as the power increases only to return to a warm grumble as one shifts gear. Being able to feel the traction of the rubber on the surface of the road and as you corner you're able to feel the fight for control. One could only really fully enjoy such things if one new where you were going. All he had to do was follow Skye trusting that she would lead them safely to their destination.

 

[CommodoreOlaf]

Novi pushed past both of them, clearly stating she maintained ownership of the house. This confirmed Takeshi's observations but it also began to worry him. He liked peace as well as the mutual respect he believed all humans should have towards one another, but Novi was a different story. He could just feel the strong vibes emanating from her being as she talked to Aurie, her supposed caretaker. Heavy tendrils of frustration weaved into the air, creating an uncomfortable tension.


Then, Novi disappeared into the house, leaving Takeshi with her caretaker.


Aurie did not seem to bear the same intense emotions and her demeanor remained calm, albeit a slightly forced calm.


"So, you say she's moving in with you?"


"Yes, ma'am."


"That's good. It'll be...it'll be better for her. To get away from the house, I mean."


At this, Takeshi wondered more and more about Novi. Her history had become only more mysterious. To get away from the house? Novi was attached to the house but not to Aurie.


"I'm babbling. Sorry. You're her future husband, after all. If I don't tell you these things, you'll never know."


"No-no, that's fine.. Thank you for telling me.." Takeshi stood by the door and asked,


"If you don't mind me asking, how did you become to be apart of Novi's life?"


@Agent Nine

 

[Sen Pai]

Darth Pai updated Eradication with a new update entry:


[Public Event] Community Ball

Community Ball

​

Attention, citizens of the Community. With another successful year of Love Harvest, we would like to host a celebration pertaining to three generations of continuity.


The first Community Ball will be held tonight at Concord Center. Participation is mandatory. Dress is formal and, if possible, bring your Love Harvest partner.


May the order provide you unity. Long live the...

Read the rest of this update entry...

 

[Syrenrei]

Skye Yoona Park


Skye had a tendency to occasionally daydream when she was driving, usually leading to erratic patterns, late turns, and general recklessness. Her focus today, however, was on making certain that Hans would be able to easily follow her through the light traffic back to her home. They quickly transitioned from the travel of his residence to the rough pavement of less traversed roads, and the smooth and refined surface of the Upper Class portion of the district. No other fleeting thoughts entered her might as she grasped the steering wheel tightly, singularly honed on the task at hand.


She relaxed slightly as they reached pearlescent gates that were reminiscent of the mythological gates of heaven. Skye often wondered if they were the result of treating an ordinary metal with a powerful dose of chemicals or if they were entirely synthetic in nature. In either case, they were purely for aesthetic value and glimmered in the light, welcoming residents to all the comforts of the wealthy. Before them was a towering apartment complex that twisted itself without reason other than to appear enigmatic and eye-catching. A fountain was between the gated entrance and the building itself, with two curved descending lanes leading to a place below the pavement for parked vehicles. Flanking the structure were carefully tended trees, foliage, and a spattering of flowers- a small reminder of the vast wilderness that lay beyond the confines of the wall. This greenery was, of course, meticulously maintained and government-approved, however, and more like a garden than a true dose of nature's beauty.


With her car, Skye led Hans to the parking apparatus below. It was more white-washed metal and smooth carved stone, illuminated by globes set into the walls and 'ceiling.' Sparing no expense, the four exterior "walls" of the underground area were made of clear, synthetic material akin to glass but more durable and just as transparent. The earth could be seen beyond it, though it had also been sculpted to be a pleasant arrangement of rock and roots devoid of unseemly things such as worms and bugs. Skye parked in one of the many vacant spaces as it seemed this area was entirely too large for the occupants of the massive building. Waiting patiently for Hans to follow suit in exiting his vehicle, she shrugged a little and gave a soft smile.


"Not that many people live here- we chose it for privacy. A declining population gives a lot of freedom with real estate, it seems. Each floor belongs to a different person; we're on Floor 14. If you go to the wrong floor by accident, there's a door you have to step through before you're officially trespassing. I had some supplies delivered if you want to... personalize the space. Pizza should be here in about five minutes. Plenty of time before tonight's festivities yet." The woman had removed herself from the subject of decor and her voice was a mix of apology and apathy. No doubt this was much more than Hans expected and she suspected he'd be overwhelmed by her living arrangements. As she had little concern for the space (other than it wasn't intermixed with strangers) she suspected he'd want to make it feel like home.


Detaching herself from the potential emotional impact of change and detaching herself from physical proximity to Hans, she led him to an elevator that would take them directly to the top floor and let him ask of her whatever he would. While she wasn't an open book, it would take a lot of prodding before he was approaching sensitive issues that she had no desire to discuss.


The elevator was, just like everything else Upper Class, sparkling clean. The walls were painted with murals of classical Renaissance artwork in an attempt to break up the sterilized feeling that the exterior tended to exude. The elite did not want everything to be simply 'modern' and 'white'- they also wanted a taste of the past so long it was as high-brow as they were. Skye handed Hans a spare card (which was white with a strip of gold and blue) as she swiped her own and pressed a bar simply labeled "Floor 14." The elevator doors swept shut suddenly and there was a brief moment of silence before they opened again at their destination. The numbers did not roll on any display nor was there any jostling movement. Money and technology triumphed yet again- this time in being as unobtrusive and efficient as possible.


Skye stepped out of the elevator where a plain white door waited with no name plate or other identification. A few boxes awaited her arrival, carefully stacked to one side of the hall and labeled with contents- paint, spray appliers, and artwork samplings. She swiped her card again at a reader beside the threshold and it whirred quietly before sliding open to reveal what he had been anticipating no doubt for the better part of half an hour- the actual home interior.


The entrance was a hall with a small room to the left for hanging coats, shucking off shoes, placing umbrellas, and storing other necessities for traversing the outdoors. To the right was a spacious kitchen that flowed in an open floor design to a combined living room and dining room. Another room to the left, just past the 'mud room' was an office with the door ajar, revealing bookcases inside. It wasn't as extravagant as it could be. Granted, it was a lot of space for two people- but it was no mansion and there were no statues or other expensive items to show her status. If anything, it was devoid of any personal touch- no paint on the walls, no artwork or wall hangings, no knick-knacks or souvenirs. The only colour in the space were the muted earth tones of her furniture that had been purchased with the intent of folding into a design that never came to fruition. It was comfortable and spacious, yet bland and blank.

 

[Agent Nine]

A reasonable question. Aurie stared at Takeshi for a moment before she replied, studying him, tone, mannerisms and all. What a nice boy. God, I hope she treats him well.


"I was assigned to be her care-taker a few days after her mother died. I like to think that Novi realizes that she isn't coming back anytime soon, but...I've never really been too sure. The hospital never got in contact with her, after all, and I only found out because of the phone call I received that led to me moving in..."


Aurie frowned, then. All this talk was leading to reminiscing...unpleasant reminiscing. Still, the young man had a right to know; his legal wife sure as hell wouldn't tell him, herself. Or so the old woman thought.


"I remember the day, too. I walked in, set my things down, looked around a bit for this child that I was supposed to watch over...and there she was, sitting at the dining table eating a bowl of mac and cheese all by herself," She said, the slightest hint of a smile interrupting her frown. "She'd been so used to taking care of herself since the incident that she didn't know what to do with me...and, to be fair, neither did I."


Novi would agree with that in a heartbeat.


"You see, I've never had children of my own, so I wasn't really sure what things I was supposed to do or...how I was supposed to act. And she seemed to be doing such a good job of raising herself that I..."


The frown returned, again, emphasized by a sorrow that settled into the woman's pale, brown eyes. She turned her attention away from Takeshi for a moment, staring off into the distance.


"She won't say so, herself, but...I think she's always held that against me. That I left her to her own devices. At least now things are changing for her...for the better, no doubt. ...And here I go, rambling again. I'm terribly sorry, young man. It isn't often that I have these sorts of conversations...ha...so, Novi isn't giving you too much trouble, is she? And come on in, for goodness sake. You don't need to stay by the door."


@CommodoreOlaf

​

 

[Ayl]

@X405


Jacob Reginald Thaddeus Morgan


As Jacob got released from his restraints, his first thought was to curse all the gods out there for mocking him so much. His hour when he would be reunited with his family was yet again postponed, and for who knew how long. He got up from his chair and followed the suit towards wherever it was they were headed.


The snarly voiced the government dog used to shut up the officer seemed typical to Jacob. He had dealt with his kind before. Hell, he had marks all over his body from his previous encounters with MM agents. Jacob could barely walk, but for some reason, he was curious as to why was his eradication, an event considered sacred by the higher ups, was canceled right in the last minute. As far as he knew, this never happened before.


Going through a door, they got out of the building they were in. The light blinded Jacob, who was deprived of its warmth for over a month. His eyes slowly adapted to the light, after recovering from his initial stagger. In front of them, a black limousine was waiting for them, as they agent signalled them to ented it. Reluctantly, he went in first, followed by the seargent behind him. What was his role in all this.


The agent entered last, and sat opposite of them, knocking in the shield that prevented them from seeing the driver. "Let's go." the suit spoke.


"You may be wondering why did I take you two. Afterall, it's not everyday one gets to be eradicated, eh?" he chuckled.


"Well, mister Morgan," he addressed Jacob "it seems you have a strong guardian angel out there. You have been pardoned from your execution, and are now free to go. Under one condition, though!" he stated.


Jacob was amazed. Now only was he extracted from his execution, they were letting him go?! That was unheard of in all the history of the Community. He sensed a trap being laid, but decided to go with it, for now. "So what's the catch?" he asked, feeling suddenly imbued with new powers. Powers of hope.


"You and the seargent here, are to join a special unit, specialised in long range assassinations. I've read your file, mister Morgan. An ex-marine, dishonorably discharged for a demeanor and behaviour unworthy of your outfit. This is your chance to right your past, if you shall choose so. If not, I will be more than happy to drop you off at your previous location." he grinned, knowing he wasn't giving Jacob much of a choice. Either go with him, or die.


Were it just a normal offer, Jacob would've just said no and go back to be eradicated, thus joinning his family in the afterlife. But one word made him change his mind on the spot. "Assassination" . Suddenly, all the images of the government officials that had dissapointed him throughout the years, the slaughter of innocent people he had to perform at the order of his commanders, every beating he's received from agents just as the one standing before him. Images of his wife and son, flashing through his eyes, served as a reminder of the unfairness of the system.


Jacob was wrong when he thought he couldn't feel anything after all the pain he went through in the facility he was locked into, deprived of the outside world and its pleasures. He could still feel one emotion, burning bright as a bonfire in his heart. He could still feel hatred. And from that exact moment, he clung to the feeling like a newborn to his mother's breast. He decided he would take that feeling and turn it into action, resolve.


He would be the one to turn the tables agains the government, and dispose of the corruption plaguing the Community for all these years.


"You drive a hard bargain, agent. Fine, I'll take the job, as long as it leaves me breathing."


"Good, mister Morgan, I'm glad that you can still see reason. Now, for the seargent." the agent spoke again, pulling a file from underneath the seat. "Says here you are a top notch soldier. Valiant, obedient, efficient. If you are to accept our offer, you will be promoted to the rank of lieutenant, and will be second-in-command of the squadron. Also, your pay will be raised, of course, and you will receive several other bonuses, during your service and after you retire. Also, you will not be tangled by the current military procedures. This is a black ops unit we're talking about, which will receive orders direct from the top.".


The agent displayed the job description patiently, to both of them. Jacob guessed the agent considered it was faster to first ask him whether he would join in and then brief them, in case he would've refused. Smart. Just like a G-dog would be.


"So, seargent, what say you?"

 

[Ebonysdagger]

@X07


Sandra finally spotted an empty and clean enough booth to sit in and made her way toward the chance to get off her feet. "So, any of the girls happen to catch your eye there? I honestly was too busy panicing to notice any of the other girls much and only really noted that one guy due to a bit of personal envy."


Sandra feels her phone beep letting her know there is a new message on it and while she waits for Xavier to join her she pulls it out to read over the announcement the government gave out. Her face turns pale as she now has to look forward to being in a crowd of people again... for the second time in one day. She sets to pre-emptive breathing exercises so as to avoid hyperventilating.


In the back of her mind a small part of it that is not in the process of melting down notes that she does not have anything even close to formal unless you count a cheap woman's business suit she uses on the rare occasion she has to put in a public appearance for her job.

 

[Flabbysaurus]

"I'm sure it will be okay. You'll so why when I show how big it is. Yet so empty..." Flynn replied as Sammy tugged him along as she explored the house. It felt strange to see someone so fascinated by his house. Flynn always forgot how extravagant it was in comparison to most people's houses. Flynn groaned in his head at Sammy's next question. Despite being so rich he didn't have a very eventful life or any interesting hobbies. Probably the reason he didn't aspire to have a dream job, there was nothing that really interested him. Flynn debated whether or not he should lie. He'd played some sports on the odd occasion but not something he done regularly and hanging out with his old friends seemed like a normal thing that most people done.


"Well...not much...I play some sports. Football mainly and I usually just hung out with my friends but I've not seen them since they had to take part in the love harvest..." Flynn said. His tone of voice trailing off as he finished his sentence with a somewhat saddened look on his face. "Anyway I'll show you the basement in all it's glory" He said as a smile cam snack to his face. Flynn flicked the light switch outside the basement door and then walked downstairs. The walls were starch white and there was a small slit that was meant to be a window. It done it's job well which was to provide a little natural sunlight.


The room was empty and cold. Flynn was glad he'd kept his shoes on as the wooden flooring was freezing. The room was a decent size. Enough to fit quite a lot in it but hadn't been put into use. Flynn looked towards Sammy with a smile. "So...is this good enough?" He asked as his voice echoed around the room.


@Auren

 

[CommodoreOlaf]

Takeshi felt a little uncomfortable seeing the way Novi acted around Novi. It was as if the older woman's very presence switched on some sort of angry-lever in Novi's head, in which only time managed to calm her.


"I was assigned to be her care-taker a few days after her mother died. I like to think that Novi realizes that..." The rest he heard but was overshadowed by her first statement. Death. He was almost sure now. The bitterness, the way Novi talked and flared, the way he thought he connected with her... The only thing that would make things more definite would be if Novi said these things herself.


"I remember the day, too. I walked in, set my things down, looked around a bit for this child that I was supposed to watch over...and there she was, sitting at the dining table eating a bowl of mac and cheese all by herself,"


Child? This must've happened a long time ago. Perhaps when her mother passed, she saw in Aurie a strange woman, someone who was not her mother, and she got scared. Freaked out to the point where could no longer accept Aurie, not even for her duty as caretaker, alienating Aurie from the aspects of life.


"She'd been so used to taking care of herself since the incident that she didn't know what to do with me...and, to be fair, neither did I."


However, there was a chance that Novi didn't like her and had good reason. It was a chance of small probability, the fact that Aurie seemed to be just a kind, old, and misunderstood woman, but the chance was still there. Perhaps as caretaker of young Novi, she became a tyrant. Takeshi had to think on both sides to accept reality. Otherwise, Aurie probably would've permanently frightened him.


"You see, I've never had children of my own, so I wasn't really sure what things I was supposed to do or...how I was supposed to act. And she seemed to be doing such a good job of raising herself that I..."


She trailed off at a point where Takeshi had expected her to go more.


"She won't say so, herself, but...I think she's always held that against me. That I left her to her own devices. At least now things are changing for her...for the better, no doubt. ...And here I go, rambling again. I'm terribly sorry, young man. It isn't often that I have these sorts of conversations...ha..."


"Aha, no-no, in fact, I've been trying to figure out many questions about Novi, but you've been a great help to answer them..." He replied with a smile, bringing his hand to his neck, and rubbing it nervously.


"So, Novi isn't giving you too much trouble, is she? And come on in, for goodness sake. You don't need to stay by the door."


Takeshi obeyed and entered the house, closing the door softly behind him, seeing every piece of furniture and displays before him. Novi and Aurie lived in a nice house, one he found himself admiring over and over again as he found something different to look at.


"No ma'am, she's... She's been great. She actually um.." Takeshi felt a drop of sweat roll down the back of his neck.


"She had paid for both of our lunches today when I had, uh, accidentally left my wallet at home." He then clarified,


"Don't worry. I paid her back and I-uh I won't forget to bring my wallet, next time. So you can count on me to provide... lunchtime fees."


Takeshi laughed a little before turning his gaze to the floor and saying,


"She may be a little sharp-tongued and slightly.. scary. But I think she's a good woman and I've... I've promised myself to take care of her."


Takeshi smiled again, an inadequate representation of the beaming he felt inside.


"Someone has to, right?"


@Agent Nine

 

[The Kaosophile]

Assassin? They want me to be an assassin? Murdering even more people than I am ordered to now, all in the name of some 'greater good'? I'd never be able to sleep at night with a job like that! "I accept your generous terms, sir, thank you for the offer." And what of this oh-so-pleasant man? Just some puppet, strings pulled by the government so that nobody important would be putting themselves in any discomfort, and I'll end up just like this bastard, won't I? Killing people who are just trying to do what they think is right so the higher ups don't have to worry about it happening to them. "I assume you already have an assignment for us, generally how these things go, right?" Oscar sounded genuine when he chuckled, as he had practiced so many times before. Seeing the sadness and injustice of the world takes a toll on the mind, and Oscar saw a lot of sadness. Oscar waited quietly as things were explained to him and the prisoner whose name he still did not know. He mentally noted every time the idea of killing another human being was glazed over like the bombed-out ruins of most of the United States. Once the explanation was over with, Oscar made himself acquainted with the ex-prisoner, though he was really still a prisoner, now he was just in a larger cell with a few more accommodations. "Sergea-- er, Liutenant Oscar Dermott, and you?" Oscar said, extending his hand awkwardly from his adjacent position in relation to the man. "Seems like we're gonna be working together for a long while." he said as the limousine slowed to a stop at its destination. Wherever they were, Oscar couldn't see out the heavily tinted-and probably bulletproof-windows, so he was both daunted and elated to finally have arrived.


@Ayl

 

[Agent Nine]

Aurie stepped aside some more to let Takeshi pass, watching as the young man seemed to ogle things on shelves. That fascination sure wouldn't come from a person of the Upper Class; the old woman doubted that he'd stepped down from some marble columns and granite fountains only to stare in awe at a photo or two. Was he maybe from the Lower Class? It wasn't a question that she wanted to ask, so she didn't.


At his words, Aurie crossed her arms and tilted her head, a little, her expression one of genuine, yet tired, surprise. He's praising her...? By now, I would've expected him to be fed up with her...


The lunch comment made her smile a bit.


"She may be a little sharp-tongued and slightly.. scary. But I think she's a good woman and I've... I've promised myself to take care of her. Someone has to, right?"


Aurie almost shook her head out of disbelief. Such a kind, genuine young man...if he's been able to put up with her for a few hours, perhaps he's just the companion she needs. "You're right. And I wouldn't trust anyone else with the job," The old woman replied, smiling at him before looking up at the sound of radio static. She'd set one on a counter in the kitchen and had kept it on the Blues station; the music was faded, now, but the sudden interruption was loud and clear enough to them in the living room. A falsely-pleasant, automated voice made an announcement:


"Attention, citizens of the Community. With another successful year of Love Harvest, we would like to host a celebration pertaining to three generations of continuity.


The first Community Ball will be held tonight at Concord Center. Participation is mandatory. Dress is formal and, if possible, bring your Love Harvest partner.


May the order provide you unity. Long live the Community."


"A ball...?" Aurie echoed, staring in question towards the kitchen.


All of a sudden, Novi poked her head out from the doorway at the far end of the room, with a cardboard box clutched in her arms and what looked like a scarf held between her teeth. "What was that about?" She asked, her voice muffled by the fabric.


@CommodoreOlaf

​

 

[CommodoreOlaf]

Takeshi didn't know why he was so cheerful. A certain happiness had come over him though he wasn't sure if it was Novi herself or the fact that he was given a chance to prove himself an able contributor to society.


He could recall the days when he would play with Kyoko, just when she was a little girl, as a faithful bodyguard to a crowned princess. The days of dress-up: Romeo and Juliet, Sharkboy and Lavagirl, Bonnie and Clyde, Jack and Jill. Playing in the sprinkler on hot summer days, the only sort of cool entertainment during those times. And forbidden shadow puppet nights where they would lock the door, set up a makeshift tent, and eat dry s'mores using vacuum sealed marshmallows and chocolate chips.


Back then, she was his only friend. For a while it was that way, but even after Takeshi had managed to befriend others later in life, the loneliness had crept into his being, settled into his bones, and rotted away his senses into awkwardness.


Here and now, it was coming back to him, not the capacities of a once popular young child, but the feeling of it. That feeling of being known and being a part of something. It was surely unsettling but deep down it made him glad.


"Thank you. I appreciate your words, Miss Aurie." Takeshi saw a woman who had had been given Novi. In Novi, he saw a woman who refused her supervision. The tension was disturbing, but Takeshi couldn't take his mind off it. Suddenly, the radio crackled to life and announced:


"Attention, citizens of the Community. With another successful year of Love Harvest, we would like to host a celebration pertaining to three generations of continuity.


The first Community Ball will be held tonight at Concord Center. Participation is mandatory. Dress is formal and, if possible, bring your Love Harvest partner.


May the order provide you unity. Long live the Community."


"A ball?" Takeshi murmured in unison with Aurie. Then, Novi came around from down the hall carrying some things and inquired,


"What was that about?"


Takeshi made his way to Novi and bent a little to relieve her from carrying the box, even though it looked like she didn't need and help.


"It's an announcement. About a ball. I suppose we're supposed to dress up and go there." He said, slipping his fingers around hers for a second before adjusting them around the box.


@Agent Nine

 

[Agent Nine]

As Takeshi came over, Novi sent a brief glare Aurie's way, an obvious 'what-the-hell-were-you-two-talking-about' look. The old woman didn't react much to it, staying in her spot for a few extra seconds before turning and heading to the kitchen.


Novi resisted the urge to snap at him for helping her; it wasn't necessarily an easy thing to carry, but there was only one, and she wasn't a helpless child. She could carry her own stuff. And yet, why refuse free assistance? She did flinch a tiny bit at the physical contact, lowering her gaze to the items in the box for a moment before releasing her hold on it and letting the guy take it from her. "Dress up for a ball, huh?" Novi said, looking up at him with a frown on her face. "How nice of them to give us a goddamned last minute warning. Since when have balls ever been a thing...?"


It was a rhetorical question, but there was a pause afterward, nonetheless, punctuated by the annoyance that seemed to be growing in Novi's amber eyes. "What, is it some sort of fancy, poofy-dress, starched tuxedo event? Are we dressing for a night at the Gala?" She continued, smirking a little as she added, "Do you think they'd shoot me if I went wearing pajamas?"


Another pause. Novi went back down the hall and disappeared into her room, coming back a while later with a bundle of clothes in her arms. Bedsheets and some random trinkets had been in the box. "Hell, do we even have to go?"


Admittedly, she knew the answer to that as soon as the words left her mouth. Aurie was the one to confirm it, coming back into the living room with the radio held in her hands. Some muted Blues single was humming from the speakers. "The announcement said that it was mandatory," The old woman commented.


Novi merely glared at her, again, before staring at Takeshi with an expectant look. Though the answer was clear, she seemed to be waiting for him side with her on the "mandatory" prerequisite.


@CommodoreOlaf

​

 

[CommodoreOlaf]

Takeshi looked at her, uncertain about what to say. It was a mandatory ball, but for what? To show off the abilities of the supercomputer to match all the couples? To create the illusion of order? Or was the government playing with them, dressing them up and making them dance, for their own satisfaction?


True, the human race probably owed it to the Love Harvest to have extended the human race this far. But this was almost self-indulging. A ball? Takeshi didn't know what to say. What came to mind and from his mouth, was far from a solid opinion on the subject, but it was the best he could produce with his thought process.


"Well, if it's mandatory, we should probably go... And get it over with, right?" As he said this, he glanced at Aurie, for her approval of his approach.


Takeshi had no desire to go to the event. By the same token, he didn't think it was a bad idea. It probably was enjoyable, if they did it every year. Plus it was sponsored so it was almost a guarantee there would be many people to talk to. Communication was something Takeshi held dear to his heart and if the opportunity came along to be able to socialize with many people his age, he had no problems with attending.


The only problem here was getting Novi to attend if that was the case. She seemed extremely opposed to it.


"Also, there's a couple of people that want meet you." He said, backing towards the door. "Well, not you exactly. But whoever I ended up being paired with at the Love Harvest. They're both gonna be there." Takeshi grinned cheekily.


"It'll be fun." He finished and then went out the door in the direction of the car, almost slipping in the driveway in the process.


@Agent Nine

 

[Agent Nine]

Novi frowned. As limited as his possible responses were, she hadn't expected his "we need to, so we might as well" conclusion. Then again, the guy was right, and though her quip about the pajamas had (mostly) been a joke, the young woman couldn't help but wonder what the penalty would be for playing hookie on the night of the ball. Probably the same penalty that came with managing to skip out on the Love Harvest. And she didn't know that one, either, but imagined it was nothing short of a bullet to the back of the head.


At the same time, would it make sense for the government to be so trigger-happy with a declining human race on the line? If worst came to worst, dissenters were most likely tossed into federal prison and tortured for the remainder of their lives. Hmm...wearing a dress, or an endless nightmare of torture...


Standing near the couch, Aurie shrugged at Takeshi's glance. To her, he was doing his best at delicately reasoning with the bristling girl; something that the old woman had half-attempted many times before.


Novi, looking a bit confused all of a sudden, as though she was having an internal argument with herself, took a few steps towards the front door. Takeshi's next words stopped her.


"Also, there's a couple of people that want meet you."


What? Who? What the hell was he talking about...?


Novi opened her mouth to say something, but the guy had already gone out to the car, leaving her standing by the door in a frustrated silence. She turned to look at Aurie, who stared blankly at her.


"...If I remember that I've forgotten something, I'll come back and get it," Novi said after a while. The old woman nodded. Feeling that things were wrapped up, then, Novi took a step out the door.


"Wait."


She stepped back, raising an eyebrow at Aurie, who had lifted a hand up and signaled for her to hold on. "What?"


"This is the only time I'm going to ask you to do something for me, alright? No promises, no favors...just...be good to that young man."


Novi rolled her eyes at this, ready to to walk back out the door before she stopped herself and sighed. "...Yeah," She muttered, looking down at the floor for a second before she kept walking.


With her armful of clothes, Novi made her way to the car. "Okay, hold the phone. Who's going to be looking for me, exactly?" She asked. "You can't just say sh** like that and walk away all cryptic-like."


@CommodoreOlaf

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[CommodoreOlaf]

After pushing the box into the back seat and securing it with a seatbelt, he returned to the side of the car to see Novi carrying some more belongings with her. He opened the side door, letting her know she could put them in the back.


"Okay, hold the phone."


Takeshi, for a second, thought she had an actual telephone she was going to hand to him to carry and reached out a hand to receive it, but realized it was only a figure of speech as she walked past him.


"Who's going to be looking for me, exactly? You can't just say sh** like that and walk away all cryptic-like."


Takeshi tilted his head to the side in confusion,


"Not you exactly, like not you-you as in Novi Yuille, but whoever I ended up getting paired with. As for who these people are, they're some friends of mine."


He closed the door and entered the driver's seat. Looking at Novi carefully, he continued,


"Considering how much they've done for me, the least I could do is show them who I got matched with. For some reason, they really wanted to meet who that was."


Staring at the steering wheel, at the steering wheel he finished by saying,


"If you don't want to meet them, that's fine. I could probably, just like, show them a picture of you." Really? A picture?


"Or I could just like point to you in the crowd." What are you even saying?


"If you did go, if that was the case." Shut up and drive.


Takeshi shook his head and focused his mind on driving. He started the car and began backing out of Novi's driveway, this time being wary of speeding ignoramuses.


@Agent Nine

 

[Hanzax]

Hans Grøngaard @Syrenrei


"To be honest I prefer it in here apposed to the rest of the complex." Hans said as he followed Skye into her apartment. It was nearly what he had expected to see. There was not a need to show her status and wealth inside her home. Much like his own it was to be a place void of thoughts and worries, a place where one could relax and forget about the problems of the outside world. The sparkling metal, shinning lights and abundance of decortaion that made full use of the advances in technology. It was all a little to much. Surely it wasn't necessary to constantly be met by designs and sculptures that reflected ones own wealth. That would be expected if it weren't the upper-class in frame, many born into the wealth and success, needing to be reassured that they deserved and were actually worth something.


"It doesn't feel correct to be the sole decider of a makeover, we're both going to be living here, together afterall. I'd be fine with living here as it is now, sleeping in a barrack kinda gives you the abilty to make anywhere feel like home. Although it'd be a shame to let your efforts go to waste." He said as he took off his shoes inside the small room designed for the purpose. "I guess it'd be the best to go through with the makeover. It wouldn't be fair that I'm the only one getting a new start." He continues after pausing a bit and getting to think about the situation Skye and himself are in. Besides his duties in the military he had become free of the past, the only thing left to remind him of the grim events a year ago was his fathers belongings that he had inherited with honor. On the other hand Skye still had everything reminding her that the one she had come to love was gone, Hans being here was just another brick in the wall keeping her from living life to the fullest.


Needless to say Hans would be out of place living in such a prestigious area. Being given the easiest and most comfortable option at the cost of price wasn't something he could agree with. There are much better things one could focus their wealth on instead of making ones own life taking priority. Everything being there ready to react immediatly at ones command would be a luxury for sure, but learning to expect such would be foolish. Growing to expect such things only ends with displeasure when things get turned upside down, suddenly waiting thirty seconds for an elevator becomes a disaster. Being sorrounded by military all his life one learns that not everything ends up as one could wish. Sometimes events occur in life that not even the best could foresee.

 

[Agent Nine]

Oh. Friends of his.


Novi walked around to the open door and slipped her things into the back seat, tucking the pile of clothes alongside the box from earlier. Then she let herself into the passenger side, buckling her belt and leaning back into the seat. What, so now the guy wanted to go exhibiting her like some prized show-horse? She knew that Takeshi didn't mean any ill-will by his words, or assumed that he didn't, but they'd come out sounding weird.


She almost commented on it, too, but chose to keep quiet and listen, instead.


"If you don't want to meet them, that's fine. I could probably, just like, show them a picture of you."


You could? Really? If you've got a photo of me somewhere, I'm concerned.


"Or I could just like point to you in the crowd."


Stupid and embarrassing.


Novi stayed silent for a moment, staring out the window with her chin resting on an open palm. "You said it was mandatory, didn't you? Even if I don't want to go, I have to. It's either put up with dressing fancy for one night or get shoved into a federal prison for the rest of my life. ...And if you actually have a photo of me stashed somewhere, I want to see it."


Then she sighed, sinking into her seat some more while managing to bring a smirk to her face. It seemed out of place, but Novi needed something to laugh at and lift her spirits. "A formal ball. Have you got any formal clothes, Mr. Oshiro...?" She asked, his name rolling off of her tongue with an intentional smoothness.


@CommodoreOlaf

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