Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario

Episode #13: Police Inspection (9/13/97)

[view copyright information]

<Veraik> Snake. [nods greeting]

* wisesnake looks downcast

<wisesnake> Veraik

<Veraik> What's the problem, Snake?

<wisesnake> Look, uh,

<Veraik> [listens]

<wisesnake> I'm sorry I went off on you yesterday.

<wisesnake> About the recruitment thing.

<wisesnake> I wasn't thinking straight.

* wisesnake seems to have nothing else to say

<Veraik> I understand. I'm sorry I stepped on your toes.

* wisesnake grimaces

<wisesnake> I forgot to tell you about Tarsh....

<wisesnake> Would it be possible for me to be assigned to give all his transfers?

<Veraik> [zlins Snake] Why?

<wisesnake> Because I made a deal with him and then I realized I didn't have the authority to promise that.

<Veraik> Oh...I see. [thinks a little]

<wisesnake> I wanted it to be part of the deal so I could keep an eye on him, to make sure he doesn't go doing that direct Gen transfer stuff again.

<Veraik> [quirks eyebrow] Oh that...you know about that.

<Veraik> [tentacle rubs forehead] Yeah..sure fine. You are probably the only one here who could handle it. I don't think even Tramila could do it.

* wisesnake 's mouth quirks into a little smile

<wisesnake> That's probably exaggerating, but... thanks

<Paulatino> [Goes to front desk] I'm looking for the controller.

<Veraik> And who make you be

* wisesnake seemingly forgotten, checks the liturature rack to make sure it is well stocked

<Paulatino> I'm the Donor Hajene Veraik requested.

<wisesnake> Who writes this stuff??

* wisesnake removes some pamphlets

<Veraik> I'm Veraik. [tentacles twitch]

* wisesnake serrupticiously zlins Paulatino

<Paulatino> [Nager flares in desire]

<wisesnake> huh

<Paulatino> [Hands assignment card to Veraik]

<wisesnake> hum de-dum

* wisesnake rearranges all the pamphlet so the ones she doesn't like are behind the good ones.

<wisesnake> there

<Paulatino> ~~~~ Paulatino is a high second order Donor who wants to be a first but never will be and he loves to entice Channels. ~~~~

* wisesnake sees Alea coming and becomes extremely engrossed in rearranging the literature rack contents again.

<wisesnake> [oh dear]

<Veraik> [Veraik's nager flattens with the thought of his coming transfer.]

* Alea does her best to avoid snake

* Alea feeling guilty and frustrated at bad transfer decides to stop

<Alea> hello snake

* wisesnake doesn't look Alea in the eye

<wisesnake> Alea

* wisesnake rearranges pamphlets

* Alea looks at Paulatino curiously

<Veraik> Fine.... Glad you are here. I'm due in an hour.

* Alea tamps down frustration

<Alea> Veraik do you have my assignments for the day

* Alea curiously studies Paulatino again

<Paulatino> [Flares anticipation] I don't think I'll short you by much. Why don't we go get acquainted.

<Veraik> [Grateful to answer Alea] yes I do.

<Alea-Farr> great, thank you

* Alea-Farr skirts Snake and goes to Veraik's office to pick up assignments

* wisesnake leaves the pamphlets and wanders restlessly over to get a better gander at Paulatino

* Alea-Farr comes out of office...

<Alea-Farr> Hajene

<Paulatino> ~~ Paul zlins like he couldn't match the lowest of Firsts. A wholely unenticing nager. ~~~

* Alea-Farr pauses when sees how close Snake is

<Veraik> Yes Alea?

* wisesnake zlins Paulatino again, this time with little pretence at hiding her actions

<wisesnake> [disbelief]

<Alea-Farr> um, when were you due transfer

<Veraik> In an hour. [Tentacles flick out]

<wisesnake> Is this early for you, Paulatino?

* Alea-Farr relaxes when realizes why Paulatino is there

* Paulatino comes closer to Veraik to support with nager.

* wisesnake circles around the two to get a better zlin

* Paulatino flinches. "Only by a day."

<wisesnake> I was afraid you'd say that.

<Paulatino> I'm sure we'll be fine.

* Veraik closes nager in fear.

* Alea-Farr is confused at actions, but automatically moves closer to Veraik in concern

<wisesnake> Well. It may be none of my business...

* Veraik looks up.

* Paulatino moves closer to his channel.

<wisesnake> Well.

* wisesnake turns away

* Alea-Farr seeing Paulatino forces herself to back off and moves closer to Snake

<Veraik> ~~~ Hope that Snake will do something makes Veraik's nager wilt. ~~~

* wisesnake glances at Alea

<wisesnake> to Alea: Well Veraik's no Klyd Farris, but that guy doesn't come close to matching him.

* Alea-Farr 's smile is strained

<Alea-Farr> Veraik should get a good transfer this month

<Alea-Farr> you don't suppose maybe he's better than he zlins

* wisesnake laughs

<Alea-Farr> [alea is a Farris Donor]

<wisesnake> Well...

* Paulatino sputter's. But...but I can... [nager flares wildly]

<wisesnake> Maybe I zlinned wrong.

* Alea-Farr moves toward Veraik but stops herself

* Veraik panicks at Paulatino's nager.

* Alea-Farr turns reluctantly toward Snake

* wisesnake takes control of the ambient

<Alea-Farr> perhaps, Paulatino you ought to work with Veraik, help him relax. It'll make for a better transfer

* Alea-Farr shoots an undefinable look at Snake

* Veraik rests on Snake's nager.

* wisesnake shoots a "what?!?!" look at Alea

* Alea-Farr allows her nager to plainly state what she's thinking

* wisesnake supports Veraik

* Alea-Farr thinking well, ANYTHING veraik goes through with this Gen can't be what we experienced yesterday

<Paulatino> What is going on?

* wisesnake grimaces and withdraws herself from Alea's support, but keeps supporting Veraik

<wisesnake> Look, uh, what's your name?

* Alea-Farr startled, looks toward paulatino and then shoots a strained look at Snake

<Paulatino> Veraik, we should go so I can help you.

<Paulatino> Paulatino.

* wisesnake moves closer to Veraik

* Alea-Farr ambles over with Snake

<wisesnake> Have you been assigned to a First before?

* Veraik grabs the side of the desk before he falls under the weight of the ambient.

<Paulatino> Uh..well...not exactly.

* Alea-Farr moves to support him, giving a dark look at Paulatino

<wisesnake> [dude, I'm already supporting you and controling the ambient. What else do you want?!]

* wisesnake hands Veraik partly off to Alea

<Alea-Farr> veraik, why don't you come in your office and sit down

<wisesnake> Paulatino. I think maybe Veraik is a little more than you can handle.

<Paulatino> [looks definate] I can handle him.

<Alea-Farr> you still have an hour...Paulatino can join you in there when he's ready

<wisesnake> Well then let us talk for a minute while Alea works with Veraik, okay?

* Alea-Farr attempts to use field to entice Veraik

* Veraik responds.

* wisesnake 's tentacles writhe at the sensation of Alea's enticement

* wisesnake grimaces

* Alea-Farr steps back at wisesnake's actions

* wisesnake takes Paulatino a little too firmly by the arm and guides him over to the far end of the room

* Alea-Farr leads Veraik to his office

<Alea-Farr> perhaps you'd like some tea made up...

* Paulatino nager flares in an attempt at seyar nager.

* wisesnake looks rather surprised

<wisesnake> You shouldn't do that.

<Paulatino> Why not?

<Paulatino> Veraik is my channel for the month and that...that...other one just took him to the office.

* Alea-Farr stops, surprised at Paulatino's words

* Alea-Farr turns, outrage in her nager

<wisesnake> Excuse me, a moment.

* wisesnake gets up and goes to Alea

<wisesnake> Get him out of here now!

<Alea-Farr> Excuse me, Paulatino? That was your name...

* Alea-Farr glares at Snake

<Alea-Farr> which "him"

<Paulatino> [straightens] yes

<wisesnake> Veraik!

<wisesnake> And yourself.

* Veraik looks at Snake.

* Alea-Farr starts toward Paultaino to throw him out

* Alea-Farr stops at Snakes words and glowers

* Alea-Farr forces herself to turn back to Veraik

<Alea-Farr> as I was saying, Hajene..

<Alea-Farr> would you like some tea...

* Alea-Farr shoots a warning look at Snake regarding her orders

* wisesnake closes Veraik's office door firmly behind Alea and Veraik

* wisesnake walks back to Paulatino

<Veraik> yes thank you Alea. I would.

* Alea-Farr stands to fix tea

<Veraik> [looks at Paulatino and goes with Alea]

<wisesnake> Paulatino, I'm afraid there's been some kind of misunderstanding.

<Paulatino> How is that?

* Alea-Farr remembers the burns and her decides it's safer to have someone else make the tea

* Alea-Farr calls out the door to a passing Sime and asks them to make tea for the Hajene

* Alea-Farr goes to Veraik

<wisesnake> Well I'm afraid that Veraik is at a delicate stage in his development.

<Veraik> Veraik tries to grin at Alea and goes to the alcove to make the tea.

<Alea-Farr> Why don't you sit down here and just relax on my field

<Veraik> Oh thank you [and sits down]

* Alea-Farr sutdies veraik strangely, wondering how he can be so polite when he is less than an hour from transfer and has a lousy Donor waiting

<wisesnake> It wouldn't be a good time for him to get shorted.

<Paulatino> What do you mean? He looks perfectly fine to me?

<Alea-Farr> who sent this donor to you?

<wisesnake> He's fine now, but if he gets an inadequate transfer this month, and I mean I'm not trying to say there's anything inherently inadequate about you, of course, but at this point Veraik can either be pushed, or he can slide.

<Paulatino> The Tecton wouldn't have sent me if they didn't think I could handle the controller.

<Veraik> The Regional Office.

* Alea-Farr frowns

<wisesnake> And I don't think you want to help somebody on a developmental backslide, do you?

<Alea-Farr> I don't mean to worry you, but he seems rather...shy around you

<Alea-Farr> after all, he IS going to be your donor.

<Veraik> I guess it was the best that they could do on such short notice.

<Alea-Farr> If -I- were your donor, you can bet I wouldn't have let anyone separate us

<Paulatino> What are you talking about?

<Alea-Farr> true, hajene, with the death of the other Donor

<Alea-Farr> perhaps next month you can convince the regional office to assign Paulatino to Snake, since she seems so interested in your Donor

<Veraik> I know. [signs]

* Alea-Farr leans forward and touchs Veraik's hand

<wisesnake> So, uh, Paul, I think we're going to have to reassign Veraik to to somebody else. It's not your fault, somebody up in Regional apparently just made a mistake.

* Alea-Farr wishes her field was better so she could really help Veraik

<Veraik> Alea. That Donor couldn't serve a low order second today. You can't zlin so you don't realize that he is a second and he is a day early.

<Alea-Farr> you know, Hajene, Tino boy just might have it in him...

<Alea-Farr> ahhh...

<Paulatino> But....but they promised me a First this month!!!! [nager blasting in wild uncontrol]

<Alea-Farr> Veraik, you know I would glady serve you if I could

* Veraik shakes head.

* Alea-Farr shudders as remembers disaster with Snake

<Veraik> I know.

<Alea-Farr> but there is no one else, is there?

* wisesnake winces, strengthens already beefed-up shields

* Alea-Farr thinking well, at least got out of the post assignment this way

* Veraik wishes that he and Alea had had the promised transfer.

<wisesnake> I don't know who promised you that, but it wasn't fair of them to say that. You aren't a First, and you can't serve a First.

<wisesnake> A very high Second could push you.

<Paulatino> No...no...I was told that I was a High Second. That is what is in my records.

* wisesnake cautiously zlins Paulatino again

<Paulatino> I just made that level last month.

* Alea-Farr goes to door and takes tea from other person who brought it

<wisesnake> Uhn...

<Paulatino> ~~ nager zlins in wishful thinking ~~~~

* Alea-Farr serves it to Veraik, wondering if he will drink any

* Veraik thanks Alea but only holds cup to warm hands.

<wisesnake> Well I'm sure you will serve a First one day if you keep working hard at increasing your capacity.

<wisesnake> In fact I'm sure your capacity is increasing even as we speak [trying to keep her Farris field from getting any real contact with Paulatino's]

<Alea-Farr> will you be okay a minute, hajene. I have got to run to my room

<Paulatino> but how else can I increase my capacity if I don't get the higher level channels.

<wisesnake> Well it can't happen all in one month.

* Alea-Farr goes out the door, leaving the door ajar so Veraik and PT can see each other

<Veraik> Sure I'll be fine.

<Paulatino> I know but I really thought Veraik was my chance to stretch.

* wisesnake uses her field to block Veraik's need from being sensed by Paulatino

<wisesnake> Well you probably will serve him one day, but remember he has to have his chance to stretch too.

* Veraik zlins a blanket of security.

<Paulatino> [hangs head] I know.

<wisesnake> Now that you're here, you can work with us during daily routines and just being in our presence will help you a lot.

<Paulatino> But when...how...can I get my chance if I blow this one.

* wisesnake looks surprised

<wisesnake> Who says you blew anything?

* Paulatino smiles a little.

<wisesnake> We just made a judgement call and decided to take you off because it's early. It doesn't have anything to do with you personally.

* Alea-Farr comes back, glaring at PT and shooting a strained look at Snake as she passes

<Paulatino> If I don't have Transfer with Hajene Veraik, the Tecton will think I'm incompetent.

* wisesnake frowns

<wisesnake> Do you really think so?

* Alea-Farr hears PT's response and grins, thinking if she could just match Snake and PT up...

<Paulatino> Do you really think that the Tecton will buy the excuse that it is early for me. [hopeful look]

<wisesnake> Actually I don't know. I'm a little new at the Tecton game myself.

* Alea-Farr goes to Veraik's side but can still hear conversation..reason she left the door open

<Alea-Farr> veraik, you know, you're near transfer...there's no one else..are you really going to let Snake send even this incompetant person away?

<Paulatino> Do you have some pull? If you do, maybe it will be all right?

<Alea-Farr> better a bad transfer than attrition

* Alea-Farr realizes what she actually said to a channel in need and winces slightly

<wisesnake> Well...

<wisesnake> Maybe.

<wisesnake> The only other way I could think of was to take down your field and then fudge the paperwork to say you DID do Veraik... but honesty is probably the best policy.

<Veraik> I'm afraid that transfer with Paulatino will mean that one or both of us will die. [tentacles go way up into their sheaths].

* Alea-Farr thinking Veraik most likely

* Alea-Farr knows Veraik wouldn't hurt PT

<Alea-Farr> My field is too low to serve you, though I could probably do as good a job as Paultino out there

* Alea-Farr wonders if she should tell Veraik just HOW bad the transfer was

<Paulatino> I guess. Oh... all right... but then who is going to give him transfer?

* Alea-Farr deicdes to wait until after his transafer

<wisesnake> We'll find somebody. If nothing else, there are channels here that outrate him.

* Veraik zlins the changes in Alea's field and wonders what is going on.

* Alea-Farr smiles brightly and flattens her field

<Alea-Farr> yes, hajene?

* Alea-Farr thinks try and read a farris...yeah...

<Paulatino> Well OK but....[takes breath]...do you think he will let him help him until his transfer. His need will help my selyn supply to grow.

* Veraik realizes that his sensitivity has grown since he has been around so many Farris'.

* Alea-Farr blinks at Veraik's strange look

<wisesnake> to Paulatino: If you stay sitting right here for a moment I will go ask him.

* Alea-Farr sees Snake coming and instantly goes on guard by Veraik

<Paulatino> Thank you.

* wisesnake enters the room, making sure not to disturb the fields

* Veraik zlins Snake coming

<Veraik> Yes

* wisesnake zlins the situation

<wisesnake> Well, what do you think? About Paulatino.

* Alea-Farr bristles at name

<wisesnake> I've got him all softened up for being told he's not going to do your transfer. If you don't want it.

<Veraik> I don't think I can do it but he was assigned to me.

* Veraik zlins hopeful.

<Veraik> I guess I could take Transfer from Tramila....or even you.

* Alea-Farr shock shoots through Alea and she stands

<Veraik> Alea!!!

* Alea-Farr thinks of what happened yesterday and just can't imagine Snake actaully touching the Hajene

* Alea-Farr 's field goes flat

* wisesnake massages her temple, feeling another responsibility migraine coming on

<Veraik> What is the point Alea? Just what happened between the two of you yesterday.

* Alea-Farr shoots an uneasy look at Snake then at Veraik

<Alea-Farr> nothing, hajene, I just think, that, perhaps you should have a...

<Alea-Farr> a Donor transfer

* Paulatino sneaks down the hall to listen and hopes that the channels don't notice his field.

* Alea-Farr clenches jaw refusing to say what really happened

<Veraik> True but there isn't a Donor available.

* Veraik zlins Alea

* Alea-Farr stiffens

<Alea-Farr> if you insist on transfer from Snake, then I ask to be there

<wisesnake> Oh, give me a br-

<Alea-Farr> you're still only a first year, Snake

<Alea-Farr> it would be unwise to allow a first year channel loose...

* Alea-Farr shoots look at Veraik

<Alea-Farr> to 'handle' hajene Veraik without someone supervising

<Veraik> Snake will be fine. [looks at Snake] Won't you?

<Veraik> Or would you perfer, Alea, that Tramila handles it.

* Alea-Farr frustration level goes up

<wisesnake> [tightly] I've 'handled' him just fine in the past.

* Alea-Farr yeah, in the past

<wisesnake> Just last month!

<Alea-Farr> before

* Alea-Farr shoots a look at veraik

<Alea-Farr> before

* Alea-Farr just looks at snake

* Alea-Farr the idiot channel is going to get Veraik in the transfer room and pull a stunt like she did with me

<Alea-Farr> Hajene, I must insist I be allowed to supervise Snake

<Alea-Farr> she is, after all, a Farris too

* Veraik zlins Snake. "It is your call Snake since you are the highest level Channel here."

<Alea-Farr> but, she is first year...

<Alea-Farr> and you are in charge. Please, Veraik, just grant me this

<Veraik> [turns to Alea] Stop. You are unbalancing my systems.

* Alea-Farr forces herself to back off

<wisesnake> look

* Paulatino comes into the room.

<Paulatino> Hajene Veraik?

* wisesnake exerts some stability on the ambient in the office

<Veraik> Paulatino. I've decided that you are not ready. You're too early for my transfer.

* Alea-Farr rolls eyes at Paulatino's interruption

<wisesnake> To Paulatino: I thought I told you to wait outside.

* Alea-Farr alea heads toward door to go to main room

<Paulatino> [looks at Snake] That's what she said.

<Paulatino> I...I understand.

* Tormer knocks with ponderous Authority on the Sime Center's door.

<Paulatino> May I help you until your transfer. It would means a lot to me.

* Alea-Farr leaves...goes to front room

<Alea-Farr> Tarsh, who is that pounding on the door

<Tormer> Tormer pounds with even more ponderous Authority, injuring knuckles.

* wisesnake winces "Shen, who is that at the front door???"

* Alea-Farr thinks idiot at the door.

<Veraik> Sure....ok.... why don't we go to a transfer suite until....

* Alea-Farr goes to front door and opens it

<Veraik> Goes to answer door. "Who locked it?"

<Alea-Farr> you DO know we have simes in here don't you?!

* wisesnake backs out of the way of Veraik and Paulatino

<Tormer> Good afternoon. I am Inspector Tormer of the city police.

* Alea-Farr turns in surprise to see Veraik there too

<Veraik> Snake decides who to send.

* Tarsh is in the lobby.

* wisesnake smiles happily to see her "friend" the COP

<Tormer> I an here in response to reports of numerous violations of our local ordinances.

<wisesnake> ohboy

* wisesnake grins wider

* Veraik stops then goes to Tormer.

* Alea-Farr shoots a look at Tarsh for lazily sitting in lobby and crosses the room

<Veraik> What is this?

* Tarsh rushes to the door.

* Tormer thinks Wisesnake wouldn't be smiling if she knew how upset her "friend" the COP is.

<Tarsh> Officer, is there a problem?

* Alea-Farr shakes her head and goes to support Veraik

* Paulatino tries to get Veraik out of the room.

* Alea-Farr glares at Paulatino

<Tormer> I am here to inspect this building for suspected violations. Please stand aside.

* Tarsh is a tall rensime 8 days past turnover, and rather red-eyed like he hasn't slept.

<wisesnake> Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. <blocks door>

<Veraik> I'm in charge office. What is the problem and you better make it quick. You are high field and irritating to every Sime in this room.

* wisesnake sighs

<Tarsh> Of course, Inspector. [steps back]

* Tormer has seen a lot worse, and pushes past Snake into the lobby, followed by two other officers.

* Alea-Farr moves closer to veraik, shooting another angry look at Paulatino

<wisesnake> [angry]

<wisesnake> Shen it

* Paulatino tries to use nager to help calm Veraik.

* Tarsh moves over to the desk.

* Alea-Farr steps between paulatino and Veraik

<Tormer> Nash, Beldon, take a look around. You can start with that medicine cabinet. It doesn't look properly secured.

* Alea-Farr remembers Snake's fiddling with it last night Shen!

<Paulatino> Veraik said I could help him so move away!!!! [stops...sees Farris black for the first time] and backs away.

* Tarsh zlins the cabinet, worried that this place has gone to rack and ruin in his absense.

* Alea-Farr smiles smugly at Paulatino

<Tormer> In the meantime, I require a look at your records, so I can determine what sort of business license you haven't bothered to acquire.

* Alea-Farr even though I am low field you lowly little...

<Veraik> Stop Officer!![signals with nager]

* Alea-Farr returns all attention to Veraik

<Veraik> You are in Sime Territory and have no authority here.

* Tarsh calls a couple of rensime orderlies to show Nash and Beldon around.

* wisesnake thinks that as soon as she gets a free moment she is going to have to go down and beat every last penny of her police bribe money out of her apparently crooked (ex) "friend" Lieutenant Jonagen.

<Veraik> Snake Tarsh,....please escort these gentlemen out!

<Tormer> Your old Sime Center was declared Sime Territory. This new one isn't. 8

* Tormer smiles poisonously.

* Tormer watches Nash and Beldon tear the door off the medicine cabinet and inspect the contents.

* Tarsh moves to intercept Nash and Beldon if they go to the cabinet.

* wisesnake seems reluctant to tangle with the huge police officers

<Veraik> By the laws of this land, you know and I know that any property which has a Sime Territory sign on it IS, in fact Sime Territory. Now get out! Before I have you arrested by the Sime Authorities.

<Tarsh> "Hey! That's on my inventory! I'm responsible for it!"

* Alea-Farr smiles at Veraik...very good

<Tormer> What have we here? Drugs? I don't recall that you bothered to take out a license to run a pharmacy.

* wisesnake thinks it's a good thing she'd already raided the best stuff out of the cabinet earlier that morning

* Veraik augments. Takes Tormer, and throws him out the door.

<Tormer> I don't recall seeing any sign outside. Perhaps you mislaid it, just like you mislaid your permit applications?

* Alea-Farr blinks, not even ready for that

<Tarsh> "I have the proper authorization from the Tecton Pharmacological Office for our supplies, Inspector."

* wisesnake jumps back out of the way

* Alea-Farr hurries after Veraik

* Paulatino stands in middle of room wishing he was any place else.

* Tarsh watches N &B for reaction, ready to stop them if they attack anyone.

* wisesnake 's eyes fall on Paulatino

<Tormer> Assaulting a police officer? I wouldn't recommend it.

* wisesnake slips over to where Paulatino is standing and makes a serrupticious gesture "come with me"

* Veraik grabs N&B in turn and throws them out as well.

* Tormer walks back into the Sime Center, and motions N & B to get on with it.

<Tarsh> [To N & B]"I think the Inspector would wants to talk to you two outside."

* Alea-Farr motions Tarsh to get several renSimes to blockt he door for the hajene

<Veraik> I said you are not in the Sime Center now. [points to side of building and the permanently attached sign.] And don't come back!

* wisesnake entices Paulatino down the corridor towards the transfer rooms

* Tormer walks over to the file cabinet and begins to inspect the contents. It's slow going, because he doesn't read Simelan.

* Tarsh presses the emergency alarm for the orderlies.

* Paulatino goes with Snake. A Channel!!

* wisesnake invites Paulatino into the best-insulated transfer room, then locks the door behind them

* Paulatino is excited about being with a high-level Channel.

<Alea-Farr> this is breaking the peace agreement, Tormer

* Tormer finds someing in the files he can understand: the records of how much selyn has been collected.

<Tormer> So call the cops.

* Tormer grins evilly.

* wisesnake smiles at Paulatino

* Alea-Farr looks at Tarsh wondering where the rest of the rensimes are

<Tormer> Get samples of those drugs, boys.

* wisesnake smiles at Paulatino and says, "Let's get that field taken down, Paul."

<wisesnake> And let's just see if we can't stretch your capacity a little while we're at it...

<Veraik> ~~~ You can not get samples or anything. You are no longer in the Sime Center. I threw you and your boys out. ~~

<Paulatino> [gets excited] oh yes. thank you.

<Tormer> ==no, you only threw Tormer out, and he walked right back in.==

<Paulatino> [holds out arms]

* Alea-Farr turns to Veraik and says in Simelan "we can't let him take all of our supplies. What do you suggest?

* wisesnake takes Paulatino in transfer position

* Veraik throws Tormer and boys out and augments to assure he can never enter again.]

* Tormer wanders over to inspect the electrical outlets, muttering about wiring violations and citations.

* Alea-Farr rolls eyes and sprints after Veraik

<Alea-Farr> let the rensimes handle that, hajene

<Alea-Farr> you shouldn't have to deal with them

* Tarsh will back Varaik in throwing out, etc.

* Paulatino nager prepares for Transfer.

* Alea-Farr sighs in relief as other renSimes come running up to help block out Tormer and his men

* Tormer goes around to the back of the building and reenters through the back door, with N & B in tow. The stack of citations is growing.

* wisesnake merrily begins a sizzlingly brisk selyn flow

* Alea-Farr as if the Simes can't zlin him and his bullies and get to the back door in time

<Alea-Farr> why don't you just let Snake bury Tormer and his men in the garden

* Paulatino gives as fast as he can and in total joy.

<Alea-Farr> right by those nice trin plants, Hajene

* Alea-Farr looks around

* wisesnake goes just a little too far, but not far enough to get either of them in TOOOOO much trouble...

<Alea-Farr> where IS Snake?

<Alea-Farr> Shenned

* wisesnake releases Paulatino

<Tormer> ==the trin plants are now sadly trampled==

<Alea-Farr> she's suppose to be our Liason between the Sime Center and these people and she just waltzes off!

<Alea-Farr> shenned worthless farris channel

* wisesnake supports Paulatino if he needs any

<wisesnake> How are ya feeling? A little burnt?

<Alea-Farr> Snake!

* Paulatino feels a slight burn, signalling a growth, then it stops. "Thank you Hajene."

* Alea-Farr heads from room to room searching for snake

<Paulatino> Just a little but it's fine. Thanks

* Alea-Farr opens door to transfer room

* Alea-Farr stops in shock

<wisesnake> Shen it! I have GOT to get the locks to this new building fixed.

<Paulatino> I think I'll go to my room and lie down.

* wisesnake gets to her feet

<Alea-Farr> what the shenned are you doing in here when hajene requires your help!

<wisesnake> "You do that, Paulatino"

* Tormer and company are now inspecting the Sime Center's back halls for the presence of properly marked exits, fire extinguishers, and frayed wiring.

* Alea-Farr glares at Snake

<Paulatino> Thank you.

<wisesnake> I'm coming, I'm coming [migraine returning with a vengeance]

* Paulatino exits.

<Alea-Farr> You are suppose to be our liason...where the shenned did you...never mind

* Tarsh runs off to see where the devil the orderlies are.

<Alea-Farr> just go help us!

<wisesnake> yeah yeah

* wisesnake looks for Veraik

<Alea-Farr> toward the back you idiot channel[last is muttered]

* Veraik sees Snake.

<Alea-Farr> renagde that probably left problems all over sime center for those idiots to find

<wisesnake> Veraik. We'd better get you taken care of because there's no telling what these goons are going to do next.

<Tormer> ==loud crash from changeover ward==

* Alea-Farr looks from Snake to veraik

<wisesnake> Alea, go see what they're doing.

<Alea-Farr> shenned

<Veraik> OK fine...if I don't get Transfer, I may kill that inspector. I AM JUST NOT IN THE MOOD RIGHT NOW!!!

* Alea-Farr rubs head and takes off at a sprint

* wisesnake winces and takes Veraik gently by the arm. "Please, let's go to a transfer room.

<Alea-Farr> just what the shenned to do you think you're doing, Tormer?

<Alea-Farr> I don't think the law allows you to destroy Sime Center property

* Tormer takes fire extinguiser from wall and tests it by disgorging it towards the door.

* Alea-Farr jumps back in disgust

* Alea-Farr wishing I had K'lana's whip in my hand at the moment

<Veraik> ok...fine but if that shendondi be flayed Gen isn't gone by the time we are finished, I'm still gonna kill him.

<Tormer> That one's still working.

* wisesnake closes the transfer room door behind herself and Veraik

<Alea-Farr> I see that.

<Alea-Farr> If you would tell us exactly what it is you ... require, I'll be glad to personally show you around

<Alea-Farr> but I can't let you wander the halls, for your OWN safety!

<Veraik> [tentacles in way up in sheaths]

* wisesnake pauses, then drags a piece of furniture over and uses it to wedge the door firmly shut

* wisesnake turns to Veraik

<Tormer> However, they have not been tested at the proper intervals. I'm afraid I'll have to cite you for that.

* Veraik stands in the middle of the room.

* Alea-Farr sends Tormer a disgusted look

<Alea-Farr> go right ahead, then I'll be glad to take you on a tour

* Tormer ignores Alea in favor of watching N & B search the cabinets.

* wisesnake extends her nager to make the room a bubble of total calm

<wisesnake> Come on, Veraik, forget about all of that for just a while.

* Alea-Farr goes to other rooms and makes sure everything is securely locked up before returning to Tormer

* Veraik barely relaxes. Still thinking about what is happening.

<Tormer> ==the illusion of calm is shattered by another crash==

<Alea-Farr> shen shen shen!

<wisesnake> Oh jeez, I was hoping it wouldn't come to this.

* Alea-Farr hurries back into the room

* wisesnake projects blatant Gen enticement (with a whopping BIG field)

* Veraik responds to Snake's field.

<Alea-Farr> You know, it's not going to do any good to pester us like this..

<Alea-Farr> I'd even predict  that when the Tecton hears of this your town could lose all of its selyn powered supplies

* wisesnake projects ravenous "need-to-give"

<Alea-Farr> Yep, I wouldn't want to be the one responsible for putting this town back in candles

* Tormer tries the door to the storeroom, finds it locked, and gestures for Nash to test the fire ax on in.

<Alea-Farr> candles

* Veraik tentacles flick out of their sheaths.

* Alea-Farr steps in front of the door and raises an eyebrow

<Alea-Farr> I don't think so inspector

<Tormer> Madam, this town had a better--and more profitable--selyn supply before your so-called Center opened, if you see what I mean.

* wisesnake allows her field to consume Veraik's in a whirling Gen urgency and holds out her arms in offering

<Alea-Farr> yeah, but it won't now

* Tarsh returns without any orderlies, just a clipboard. He begins industriously noting everything done by Tormer and his men.

* Veraik falls into Snake's tentacles.

<Tormer> Oh, I wouldn't care to bet on that.

* Tormer smiles poisonously.

<Alea-Farr> as a matter of fact, I can bet your life won't be worth the selyn you have in it if you don't cease this now

<Alea-Farr> you have underestimated just who and what you're dealing with

* Tarsh continues to scribble.

<Alea-Farr> and if I were you, I think I'd think about packing your bags and leaving before the people here or the Tecton catches up with you

<Tormer> Threatening a police officer is punishable by a fine and three years in jail--and our local jail doesn't have much in the way of accomodations for Simes.

* wisesnake delivers a searingly beautiful transfer

<Alea-Farr> I don't think you're going to take this Gen anywhere

* Veraik draws selyn as fast as Snake gives it.

* Alea-Farr looks down at her bare arms

<Alea-Farr> you do realize what the black on my uniform stands for?

* Tormer pushes past Alea, followed by N & B, and begins to inspect the storeroom.

* wisesnake pushes faster

<Tormer> I couldn't care less, Madam.

* Alea-Farr catches balance and turns and locks Tormer N & B in storeroom

* Veraik takes as fast as Snake gives.

<Alea-Farr> Tarsh...get help...they're locked in

* Alea-Farr leans against door and grins triumphantly!

* wisesnake says hell with it and jams the selyn in as fast as she can manage

<Tormer> ==They aren't locked in. They got in in the first place because Nash chopped out the lock with the fire ax.==

<Tormer> Hmm, those selyn batteries aren't properly marked as dangerous.

* Alea-Farr still leaning against the door and awaiting help

<wisesnake> [too bad he knew they were dangerous]

* Alea-Farr hopefully some SIME help

* Tormer writes up the 25th citation of the visit.

* Veraik begins to burn a little.

* wisesnake manages not to hurt Veraik too badly

<Tormer> Now then. I believe a Mr. Veraik is the person in charge here?

* Veraik systems are stretched a lot.

* Alea-Farr still leaning against door..worried now that only one gen is leaning against it

* Tarsh mutters. Seems more like you think you are.

* Tormer neatens his stack of citations.

* wisesnake slips out of the transfer room and carefully relocks the door, then goes looking for Alea

<Veraik> Thank you Snake. That was perfect. [leer]

<Tormer> These copies are for him, and of course, I will be keeping the originals. The court clerk will be in contact with you about your fines.

* Tormer sees Snake approaching.

* Alea-Farr smiles with relief at seeing Snake

<wisesnake> Alea, please go to transfer room 6.

* wisesnake looks at Tormer

<Tormer> Of course, if you are unable to pay your fines immediately, it might be possible to work out an arrangement.

* Alea-Farr glances back and forth, then leaves

* wisesnake holds out her hand for the citations

* Alea-Farr realizes door is locked, takes out my set of keys and goes inside

* Tormer passes the citations over.

* wisesnake looks at the citations

* Alea-Farr locks door behind her

<wisesnake> huh.

* Alea-Farr surprised to see Veraik there

<wisesnake> "Slippery floors, sticky floors, no hot water,"

<wisesnake> "mislabelled electrical switchgear..."

<wisesnake> "failure to communicate?!"

<Alea-Farr> that shedoni be flayed idiot inspector has no idea that the tecton is going to fry him when they hear about this

* Alea-Farr goes to counter and fixes tea for Veraik

<Tormer> Yes. There are certain parties--I'm sure you can guess who--who were very upset when the Tecton started taking over their business.

* wisesnake looks baffled

<wisesnake> I haven't given them any business but my own.

* Veraik augments to Alea.

* Alea-Farr turns in surprise

<Alea-Farr> hajene?

<Tormer> Do you think you were the only illegal channel in town?

<Veraik> [rubbing tentacle down her arm] We don't have to drink tea right now, do we?

<wisesnake> No, but I do know that I have been providing all of the Donors that have come here so far.

* Alea-Farr almost drops the tea pot at Veraik's actions

<Alea-Farr> well, no...

<Alea-Farr> what do you want? [baffled]

<Tormer> But now you have half the Gens in town coming here to donate instead. The Boss is upset, and your donors are upset, too, because they can't get any payment worth mentioning.

<Veraik> [pushes hair back] What do you think? [Kisses neck]

<Alea-Farr> uh, uh...NOW?!

* wisesnake narrows her eyes.

<Tormer> That kind of unrest falls directly into my area of responsibility, if you know what I mean.

<Veraik> oh yes. right now.

<wisesnake> Don't try to tell me what my donors are feeling.

<Alea-Farr> but...the people out there...what if they ...

* Alea-Farr shoots a look at the door

* Veraik goes to lock door. No problem.

* Veraik augments back to Alea.

<wisesnake> I have a very close relationship with "my" people. With the possible exception of one particular police officer who is NOT going to be happy to see me coming...

* Alea-Farr thinking I am going to KILL Snake for this

<Alea-Farr> maybe you'd like to hear my report on the transfer yesterday, hajene

<Tormer> If you want to see for yourself, come down to the station. I've had fifteen official complaints, and our informants report much more.

<Veraik> No. [breaths heavily] Later.

* wisesnake wishes she could share her migraine with the Gen

<Tormer> They're not blaming you personally--yet--but that won't last much longer if you can't manage reasonable donation payments.

* wisesnake sweats

<wisesnake> Look,

<wisesnake> I have been making all the appropriate bribes. I was assured I'd still be able to guarantee the people police protection.

<Alea-Farr> um, well...backs over to couch and sits down...

<wisesnake> That was supposed to be enough to offset the change in income.

* Alea-Farr thinks what an inopportune time

<Veraik> [twirls hair in tentacle] What do you say?

<Tormer> And, of course, the Boss wants his supply of selyn back. If the Tecton wants to collect it, fine, he'll work with them, but this current arrangement is not acceptable.

<Veraik> "You are so beautiful."

<Alea-Farr> you don't want to wait an hour or so until things calm down?

* Alea-Farr gulps

* wisesnake massages her brow

<Tormer> I'm not hassleing your people--yet--but your Sime Center here hasn't been making any...contributions to the pension fund.

<Veraik> It will wait. Right now....right now is just you and me.

* wisesnake 's hand stops

* Alea-Farr thinking that the inspector has already been through the private rooms...

<Alea-Farr> okay, fine, but let's go to your room

<wisesnake> Is that it? Is that what this is all about, the Pension fund?

<Tormer> What did you think this was about? You think we lean on people just for the exercise?

<wisesnake> Well, it was beginning to look like that! After all, I _had_ made all the appropriate contributions for the month.

* Veraik breaths hard and nods. "But let's hurry."

<wisesnake> But if you require a higher percentage for the pension fund...

<wisesnake> Well, I had no idea. Somebody should have told me. I'd be glad to make some arrangements to that effect.

<Tarsh> <mutters> "looks more like a hobby to me"

* Alea-Farr exits and follows Veraik to his room vowing to get Snake back for this

<Tormer> Well, if you folks are willing to cooperate, I'm sure the Boss would be willing to make a deal. He's a businessman, after all.

* wisesnake gestures at Veraik's office.

* Veraik walks with Alea in great anticipation.

<wisesnake> Why don't we go sit down. I assure you this will only take a moment.

<Tormer> I'm not empowered to negotiate for the Boss. You'll have to use your regular contact to make the arrangements.

* wisesnake grimaces. My regular contact has proved himself inadequate.

<Tormer> In the meantime, the boys and I have a lot of work to do.. I expect we won't get around to filing those citations until, say, day after tomorrow?

* wisesnake scowls

<wisesnake> Give me five minutes.

<wisesnake> Trust me, it will be a very profitable five minutes.

* Tormer leans against the wall with predatory patience.

* wisesnake gestures at Veraik's office again.

<wisesnake> In private, if possible?

<Tormer> Oh, all right.

* Tormer follows Snake into the office, N & B wait outside.

* wisesnake closes the office door, then goes to a locked cabinet behind Veraik's desk

* Tormer watches suspiciously.

* Veraik quiets and strokes Alea's hair.

* wisesnake fiddles the lock with utter ease and removes a ledger from inside

<wisesnake> Look. I realize you are an important man and have a lot to attend to.

* Tormer raises an eyebrow at her burlagous skill.

* Alea-Farr smiles up at Veraik

<Veraik> [Suddenly] Snake! [puts on pants]

* Alea-Farr jumps in surprise

<Alea-Farr> what, hajene?

* Veraik augments out door.

* Alea-Farr grabs her own clothes

* Tormer sees this for the flattery it is, but listens calmly. He's heard all this before.

<Alea-Farr> shen!

<wisesnake> Now I also believe that the smooth operation of this Sime Center is in the best interests of all of us.. including the Police department.

* Alea-Farr hurries into her own clothes

<wisesnake> And that smooth operation is certainly worth a bit of extra expense.

* wisesnake opens the ledger - it is the unsigned payroll checks

* Alea-Farr pushes back messy hair and, grimacing at appearance, takes off after Veraik

<Alea-Farr> shenned channels think Donors can augment just like them

<wisesnake> Now I'm prepared to make you an offer that you might find very attractive.

* Alea-Farr huffing down corridor

* Veraik zlins for Snake.

<Tormer> The Boss doesn't feel it's worth the loss he's suffering, now that the community's donations aren't passing through his brokers.

<Tormer> And what might that be?

<Veraik> Tarsh. What happened to this place!!!

* Alea-Farr trying to straighten clothes as she ducks in and out of rooms looking for Veraik

* wisesnake writes a gargantuan paycheck made out to Tarsh, removes it from the book and puts it in her pocket, then puts the ledger back in the cabinet and relocks it

* Alea-Farr sighs dismally at the mess

<Tarsh> Police "Inspection" Hajene. ~~bitter anger~~

<wisesnake> All right. What I can offer you is that we pay a head percentage to the brokers just as I would have if I were still operating solo.

<Veraik> Are they gone?

* Alea-Farr ducks in another room, figures out Veraik isn't out back nor in the back rooms

* Tormer raises a thoughtful eyebrow.

<Tormer> That might be acceptable to the...parties concerned.

* Alea-Farr locks doors and belated assigns different renSimes to clean up the various messes

<wisesnake> In addition, we will remove the Donors' Pension payments from their fees before giving it to them, and deliver it to you directly.

<Tormer> Of course, it would have to be retroactive.

<Tarsh> No. The Inspector is in your office with snake.

<wisesnake> Of course.

* Alea-Farr goes by her room and sees the mess they've made, but glad they didn't find private papers

<wisesnake> I deeply regret that this unfortunate misunderstanding occurred.

* Alea-Farr closes and locks her door

<wisesnake> I am afraid that my personal contact with the Police force has become unreliable of late.

<Veraik> What! Oh All right. Just get this place cleaned up before another donor arrives.

<wisesnake> May I consider you my contact now?

<wisesnake> <puts hand in pocket meaninfully>

<Tarsh> Yes, Hajene.

<Tormer> I will have to run your proposal by the proper ears, but I believe that might be acceptable.

* Tarsh goes to organize the cleanup.

* Alea-Farr starts toward front donor rooms

* Alea-Farr looks through transfer rooms, asking anyone if they've seen Veraik...each one points Alea in a different direction

* wisesnake rises

<Tormer> Of course, my dear. Allow me to present you with my card.

* wisesnake accepts card

* wisesnake hands Tormer the check

* Tormer holds out card, and deftly palms the offered bribe.

* Alea-Farr alea decides to check the front part of the Sime Center

* Tormer puts the check for the Boss, and the cash bribe, in an inside pocket of his uniform coat.

* wisesnake goes to open door for Tormer

<Tormer> I believe that concludes my business here today. I will let you know if your offer is acceptable to the proper parties.

* Veraik goes to office to find Snake.

<wisesnake> Certainly.

* wisesnake holds door open

<Veraik> I thought I kicked you out!

<wisesnake> Many times, but I keep coming back. 1

* Tormer exits the office.

* wisesnake grins

* Alea-Farr alea pauses to answer some questions

* Tormer collects N & B, ignoring Veraik.

* Alea-Farr finally gets to front of center and Veraik's office

<Tormer> I will be in touch.

* wisesnake makes sure Tormer and Co. make it out the front door

* Alea-Farr sees the low life leaving the office

* Tormer pushes past Veraik as if he weren't there and leaves the Sime Center.

* Alea-Farr sneers

<Veraik> [points tentacle] Don't come back to this Center again or you will be arrested.

* Alea-Farr goes over to Veraik and Snake

* wisesnake sees Tormer and friends away and closes the door behind them

<Veraik> Snake: Come to my office and TELL me what was going on.

* Alea-Farr hesitates, looking from Veraik and Snake wondering if she should follow

* wisesnake rubs her temples and follows Veraik to the office without a word

* Veraik leers at Alea.

* Alea-Farr blinks at Veraik

<Alea-Farr> uh, hajene...

* Veraik sits behind desk. What happened?

* Alea-Farr motions toward office in question

* wisesnake shrugs

<wisesnake> I guess they decided we needed shaking down.

<Veraik> How did that shendoni-by-flayed Gen get in here again and what did he want?

* Alea-Farr decides this is a conversation she can't miss and goes in, shutting the door behind her

* wisesnake attempts to keep her pounding, thumping, screaming headache from reaching Veraik

<wisesnake> Well,

* Veraik just looks at Alea but doesn't say a thing in hopes of round 2.

<wisesnake> as near as I could figure it,

* Alea-Farr goes over to small burner and turns on burner for tea

<wisesnake> my contact guy fell out of favor with the wrong folks and the powers that be decided that it was time for a shift in my loyalties.

* Alea-Farr goes over and sits by Snake, seeing the tension lines on her face

* Veraik gets up, goes to Medicine shelf, pours a glass of double fosebine and takes it to Snake.] Please just take it. [rubs head]

<wisesnake> thanks

* wisesnake glugs the fosebine

* Alea-Farr sighs in empathy for Snake's headache

* wisesnake thinks that at least there's no entran to deal with today

<Veraik> [Goes to Snake, rubs temples with tentacles] A shift in loyalties, huh. So are you in now?

<wisesnake> Oh, and, I forgot to mention, I emptied the payroll account.

* Alea-Farr eyes widen in dismay and glance between the two

<Veraik> [groan] Oh...all right. I'll write it off the same way I always do. Under misc. See explanation. 2

<wisesnake> That reminds me, I have to warn Tarsh.

<Veraik> About what?

<wisesnake> Uh... [thinks the better of elaborating] ... nothing you'd care about.

* Alea-Farr gets up to go check the boiling water

* Veraik lets tentacles wander over hair and neck then back up to the temples.

* wisesnake jumps up hastily

<wisesnake> well I can see you two have a lot of unfinished business.. gotta go

* wisesnake leaves the office in a hurry

* Alea-Farr turns from starting to pick up the water

<Alea-Farr> why'd Snake take off in such a hurry

* Alea-Farr concern in nager

* Veraik looks at empty tentacles in dismay.

<Veraik> [Turns to Alea] I have no idea.

* Alea-Farr turns back to water

<Alea-Farr> how about I pour us some nice hot tea

* Veraik walks over and takes care of the tea. "You had better let me do that."

* wisesnake sees the lobby is deserted and collapses onto one of the sofas with her arm over her eyes

* Alea-Farr remembers her tendency to spill hot things and submits to hajene's authority

* Veraik pours tea and hands Alea a cup.

* Alea-Farr goes over and sinks wearily to the couch

* wisesnake is collapsed on the couch with her arm over her eyes

* Vit wanders into the lobby.

<Alea-Farr> you know, hajene, just glancing through the rooms, I estimate it's going to take three months to replace the stuff that idiot wrecked

<Vit> What happened to this place?

* Alea-Farr seeing Veraik sitting like that, she reaches out and lays her hand on his leg in a soothing motion

<Veraik> I know but I plan to take it out of his pay.

<wisesnake> [not moving] don't even ask.

* Alea-Farr nods

<Alea-Farr> Tarsh is doing a great job cleaning up

<Vit> You'd think the police had been here.

<Alea-Farr> I ordered some renSimes to get the back half of the center straightened up

<wisesnake> they have. believe me, they have

<Alea-Farr> I hope you don't mind

<Vit> I don't suppose you've heard about any job openings?

* wisesnake gives up on getting any rest and claws her way up into a sitting position

* wisesnake looks at Vit

<wisesnake> Oh.

<wisesnake> you.

<wisesnake> Yes.

<Vit> Otherwise, I'm shoveling pumice again tomorrow.

<Veraik> Not at all

<wisesnake> Yes, actually I know just the thing, if you're still available.

<Veraik> Thank you

<Vit> Really?

<wisesnake> Yeah.

<Alea-Farr> I don't know what we'd do without Tarsh.

* Alea-Farr shakes head and sighs

* Vit 's low field brightens with hope.

<wisesnake> So you say you're pretty good with a shovel?

<Alea-Farr> I think he was the only one who kept his cool at this unwarrented invasion

<Vit> Well, sort of. I do have a tendency to spill more pumice on myself than the others.

* wisesnake considers

<Veraik> I know. I'll have to recommend him to the Tecton for the next level.

<Alea-Farr> he can be...persnickity, a pain in the...[glances at Veraik and refrains]

<wisesnake> I don't think that will be a problem in this situation.

<Alea-Farr> but he really pulled his weight.

<wisesnake> Do you own a gun?

<Alea-Farr> you know, I was going through Klana and Aleiaa's things to send back to their households

<Vit> No. My father always said that if he gave me one, I'd end up shooting myself in the foot.

<Veraik> True but I think we are all molding into a team.

<Veraik> Yes

<wisesnake> Oh, I see.

<Alea-Farr> Klana had some really interesting things in there.

* Alea-Farr thinking of all she'd found

<wisesnake> Maybe you wouldn't be quite right for the job I had in mind, then.

<Vit> I tried carrying a knife for a while, but I kept cutting myself.

<Alea-Farr> but it was the stuff in Aleiaa's room...

* Vit shows scars on hands.

<Veraik> [shows interest]

<Alea-Farr> do you know that someone was trying to set up Tramila as a fall guy...

* wisesnake grimaces. "Very nice"

* Veraik frowns. "Really."

<Vit> I think the purple stains set them off nicely, don't you?

<Alea-Farr> between you and me, hajene, I know Tramila has made her mistakes.

<wisesnake> Yeah, it's... colorful.

<Veraik> Yes?

<Vit> Actually, I can't think of any weapon I could carry which wouldn't endanger me more than anyone else.

<wisesnake> Hmmm...

<wisesnake> Well in that case,

<Vit> On the other hand, I met a kid recently who is really a crack shot.

<Alea-Farr> But well, it looks as if

* wisesnake looks suddenly interested

<wisesnake> Really.

<Alea-Farr> [averts face ]

<wisesnake> Who is that?

<Veraik> Please just tell me.

<Vit> He's new in town; his father kicked him out.

<Alea-Farr> um, well, there have been internal politics going on at Zeor

<Vit> He said he knows you...came in to donate a few weeks ago.

<Alea-Farr> [field goes neutral]

<Alea-Farr> and though Tramila has a her faults, there was another who was trying to

* Veraik zlins field.

<Vit> He wasn't sure if he'd survive it.

<Alea-Farr> destroy Zeor from the inside.

<Alea-Farr> We thought, I mean, they thought I might have been Tramila

<Veraik> [shock] Who?

<Alea-Farr> but, well, it was...K'lana

<Alea-Farr> [field goes flat]

* wisesnake thinks, then smiles

<wisesnake> Lowren. You're talking about Lowren.

<Veraik> KLana? She was the spy?

<Vit> Yeah, I think that's the kid's name.

<Veraik> Of course. How could I have missed it?

<wisesnake> Well well well.

<Alea-Farr> yes, hajene. But it would be best if

none of this came to light.

<wisesnake> Can you be trusted?

* wisesnake zlins for truth

<Alea-Farr> Zeor and Farrises like to handle their own problems.

<Vit> Trusted with what?

<wisesnake> A job.

<Veraik> I know Alea. I know.

<wisesnake> I require something taken care of.

<Vit> Sure, as long as you don't expect me hug a police officer or something.

<wisesnake> Hug, no.

<Veraik> So what about Tramila. Did anything fausly get out on her?

<Vit> This sounds more interesting all the time.

* wisesnake leans closer to Vit, keeping her voice down

<Alea-Farr> Well, I'm not sure about everything

* Vit is all ears.

<Alea-Farr> But I do know she was the one who assigned Snake her first transfer partner

<Alea-Farr> I have no idea why, but it was a mess.

<Alea-Farr> that's all I know about that though

<wisesnake> It'll require a certain amount of... discretion.

<Vit> Vit Discretion Nifera, that's me.

<Alea-Farr> That's what decided Klana to set her up...the discinplanary action that Tramila received made her the perfect target

* wisesnake blinks

<Veraik> Yes... I heard and I plan to have a talk with her when she gets back to town.

<wisesnake> Sorry, my Genlan isn't quite up to that translation.

<Vit> Just tell me what arrangements you want made, kid.

* wisesnake backs off

<wisesnake> Maybe none.

<Vit> Oh?

<wisesnake> I wanted to zlin your reaction.

<Vit> To what? My Simelan isn't up to that translation...

<wisesnake> [in Genlan] "I wanted to get a feel for whether you'd work out"

* Alea-Farr stands and stretches

<Veraik> Time for work but first....

<Vit> And?

<Veraik> Do you think you can meet me later?

* Alea-Farr opens eyes, surprised

* Veraik leers

* wisesnake shrugs

<wisesnake> It's hard to say. I can't zlin truth unless I know what the person said in words.

<Alea-Farr> I must say, Snake evidently did a ... good...job with your transfer

* Alea-Farr bows head

<Alea-Farr> as you wish, hajene. I am, after all, -assigned- to you.

<Veraik> Yes...she did and if I were tested again, I probably gained a few points as well with that one.

<Alea-Farr> oh, really?

* Alea-Farr looks interested

<Vit> There's that word again.

* Veraik leers again. Later then.

* Alea-Farr remembering absolutely horrible transfer

* Veraik goes in the front room.

<Alea-Farr> as you say, hajene

* Alea-Farr turns to door and follow Veraik

<wisesnake> Zlinning. Think of it as mind reading, only it only provides certain information.

* Alea-Farr belatedly tries to fix messed up hair

<Vit> what information?

<wisesnake> I can tell whether you were lying or not, but not what it is you actually said. Unless, of course, you use the words of two syllables or less to which I am accustomed.

* Alea-Farr wondering where did all those pins go that held it up

<Vit> Hmm, sounds like a pretty useless trick, if you ask me.

* wisesnake smiles

<wisesnake> You can think of it that way if you like, but I wouldn't recommend it.

* Veraik enters room. Snake.

* wisesnake looks up

<Vit> All I said was, I don't blab to nobody when I say I won't.

* wisesnake zlins for truth

<Vit> Oh, no. It's the guy with the forms again.

<Veraik> [looks curiously from the Gen to Snake]

* Alea-Farr walks over to where Snake is with the new Gen

<wisesnake> No forms today.

<Veraik> I thought you made your donation yesterday.

<wisesnake> He came on personal business.

<Veraik> Oh...in that case. [goes to file cabinet]

<Vit> Yeah, I got private business with the lady, so goodbye.

* wisesnake smiles

<Veraik> [pulls out several files, rearranges others]

* wisesnake wonders if she should remind Veraik to sign the files in and out, then accidently forgets all about it [she has SUCH a short attention span!]

* Alea-Farr goes over and pulls out stitching and sits down to stitch

<wisesnake> [to Vit]

<wisesnake> Look, I may have something for you soon. I have to find out how some other business worked out first.

<wisesnake> Why don't you come back in, say, a day and a half?

* Vit decides that this is not the time and place to discuss anything which should remain confidential.

<Veraik> [accidently flashes Tramila's file, then tucks it under his arm]

<Vit> Sure. It's supposed to rain tomorrow evening, so they won't be picking grapes the day after.

<Vit> No grapes, no pumice.

<Vit> And no paycheck.

<wisesnake> If you can take care of this for me, you won't need any stinking grape pumice paycheck for a long time.

<Vit> I'm all ears, lady.

* Veraik zlins the interaction and fields between Vit and Snake.

<wisesnake> Come back here in a day and a half, and I'll know then whether I have the work available or not.

<wisesnake> I'm still waiting on a piece of news that will decide it.

<Vit> I'll be back then. And I expect Lowren would be happy to join me in your service, if your job requires that.

<wisesnake> Oh, it will. Thank you for stopping by.

* Vit winks broadly at Snake and leaves.

* wisesnake collapses back down on the sofa with both hands over her eyes

* Alea-Farr glances up at Snake curiously

* Alea puts down sewing and goes to check on how simes are doing cleaning up

* Veraik zlins Snake, gets a blanket and covers her up.

* Alea comes back and looks down at Snake

<Alea> Alseep?

* Alea glances up at Veraik

<Veraik> Yes. It's been a long day for her.

<Alea> it's been a long two days

* Alea sighs and rubs back of neck wearily

* MTengstun walks nervously into the Sime Center

* MTengstun is a portly middle aged Gen woman

* Veraik zlins the Gen

<Alea> and it looks as if we aren't going to get any rest soon[mumbles]

<Veraik> May I help you.

<MTengstun> Er.. yes...

* MTengstun looks over her shoulder

<MTengstun> my husband was right behind me. Where did he go...?

* Alea curiously glances out door

<MTengstun> oh dear...

<Veraik> oh... He must have decided not to come after all.

<MTengstun> He was a little nervous about donating, you see.

<Veraik> It is quite safe here.

<MTengstun> He was right behind me! I don't know what happened.

* Alea steps up to Veraik's side quietly

<Veraik> It's a difficult decision.

<MTengstun> He said something about a stiff drink but I didn't realize he meant right now!

* MTengstun pinches her lower lip

<MTengstun> I do hope he's all right.

* Veraik zlins Alea and moves for the max benefit.

MTengstun has a fairly large field, perhaps has donated before

<Veraik> I'm sure he is fine. And how about you. You are here. Are you here to donate?

<MTengstun> Yes.

* MTengstun seems a little apprehensive

<MTengstun> Oh!!! Here is my darling husband.

<mrT> Oh, there you are, my dear.

* MTengstun rushes to join Mr. Tengstun at the door

<Veraik> Oh good. Is this your first time or do you already have a file.

<MTengstun> I was so afraid you'd decided not to give a donation after all!

* mrT is careful to keep his wife between him and the Simes.

* Veraik signals to Alea to move closer.

<mrT> Well, I did agree...

<MTengstun> [to Veraik] We have both donated before

* Alea moves to position trying to put the couple at ease with her smile

<MTengstun> [to Mr.] Try to think about afterward....

* MTengstun smiles at Alea

<mrT> I am, my dear, I am.

* Veraik goes to file, finds both, and retrieves them.]

* mrT kisses his wife.

* MTengstun giggles in anticipation

<mrT> ==the files aren't at this Sime Center.==

<MTengstun> There's paperwork... I remember something about paperwork.

* MTengstun goes over to the desk to see if she recognises the forms

<mrT> LOTS of paperwork.

* mrT follows his wife very closely, still keeping her between him and the Simes.

* MTengstun seems rather anxious to get started on the procedure

* Alea follows behind veraik, refusing to leave him with two undnowns

* mrT is just as anxious to postpone it as long as possible.

<MTengstun> here they are!

* MTengstun finds the appropriate forms and hands some to Mr.

* mrT sees the length of the expanded forms and sighs a little in relief.

<MTengstun> I'm so excited!!

* MTengstun goes to a couch with a table in front of it and starts writing quickly

* Veraik pulls out new forms, puts them on a clipboard and hands a clipboard to each of the donor Gens.

* mrT takes the clipboard gingerly, then sits down next to Mrs. T to fill out the forms.

<MTengstun> [to Mr.] think about later!

* MTengstun squeezes the Mr.'s leg

* mrT starts writing a bit quicker.

<mrT> There, that's finished it.

* MTengstun finishes up hers at the same moment

<MTengstun> We're done!

* Alea catches Veraik's eye with nager and signals, wanting to know if he wants her to come along

<mrT> But what was that bit about ovarian cancer not being an acceptable response to the "grandfather's cause of death" question?

* Veraik takes the clipboard ands reads the information.

* Alea thinking if not, I can go bother Snake...grinning

* Alea sees Veraiks almost imperceptable nod and puts ideas of torturing snake aside

* mrT fidgets nervously.

* Alea thinking how nice it would have been to tie her tentacles together

<mrT> Could we get this over with?

<MTengstun> Yes, please [with more anticipation than nervousness, oddly enough]

* Alea or that hair of hers...visions of the fun

* Veraik looks at the second clipboard.

* Alea studies the couple curiously

* Veraik goes to Snake and pushes nagerically.

* Alea sees her fun definitely destroyed

<wisesnake> uh!

<wisesnake> wha..

* wisesnake sits up

<wisesnake> what

<Veraik> We have a donor for you.

* wisesnake looks around

<Veraik> Please take care of Mr. T.

* wisesnake sees the couple

* Alea tarts to motion Mr and Mrs. T toward the transfer room

* mrT views snake with alarm.

* wisesnake zlins them both

* Alea pauses when Snake sits up

* wisesnake zlins Mrs. Tengstun with alarm

<mrT> Don't you have someone a little more...mature?

<Veraik> Alea and I will handle Mrs. T's donation.

<wisesnake> whew!

<wisesnake> I defer to your greater experience, Veraik.

* Alea stares at Snake's odd reaction

* wisesnake avoids Mrs. Tengstun and approaches the Mr.

* mrT steps backwards a bit, then stops.

* Alea hearing Veraik's words, goes to Mrs. T and waits patiently for Veraik

* wisesnake looks at Mr. Tengstun curiously

<Veraik> Mr. T, Snake is one of our best Channels at the Center. You will be in really good hands.

* Alea nager screams with laughter over that statement

<mrT> She's awfully young. [doubtfully]

* wisesnake shoots Alea with a dirty look

<Veraik> Alea, Mrs. T. shall we go to Donation Room 3.

<Alea> of course, hajene

* Alea moves off down the hall

* wisesnake looks after them

* wisesnake looks back at MrT

<wisesnake> Uh,

* Veraik turns to Alea and gives her a 'we will talk later about that one' look.

* mrT swallows nervously as his wife follows Alea and Veraik.

<wisesnake> You seem kind of, you know, disinterested in actually donating.

<wisesnake> Did she talk you into it?

<mrT> Well, in a way.

* Alea subdues her reaction

<mrT> However, I gave my word, and when you're my age, young lady, you'll know the value of keeping your word.

* Veraik closes door after the two Gens.

* wisesnake looks pleasantly surprised

<wisesnake> Oh, I hope so.

<wisesnake> Well, since you've given your word, how about coming this way to the transfer room?

<mrT> Very well.

* wisesnake leads Mr. T to Transfer Room #2

* Alea moves to normal position and waits

<Veraik> Please sit over there. [gestures with tentacle] on the donation couch.

* mrT looks around nervously, swallowing when he sees the couch.

* wisesnake closes and locks the door behind them

* wisesnake follows his gaze to the couch.

<wisesnake> "What?"

* mrT isn't happy about the locked door.

* wisesnake looks back at the lock

<wisesnake> Uh... you'd rather someone barged in on us?

* mrT considers.

<mrT> I suppose not.

<Veraik> After zlinning and making another notation, Veriak comes to the transfer couch.

<Veraik> Since this is not your first time, then you know the procedure.

* wisesnake gestures to the transfer couch and guides Mr.T over to it.

<Veraik> When you are ready, please give me your arms.

* Alea smiles

* mrT reluctantly allows this.

* Alea blink

* MRS-T jumps forward and snatches Veraik's arms in two meaty fists

<MRS-T> Yeah!

* MRS-T jams her face in Veraik's face

<MRS-T> I'm ready now!!!

* Alea alea starts forward but stops

* Veraik nagers shrieks.

<Veraik> then relaxes. All right. [tentative]

* MRS-T opens the floodgates and Selyn pours out like an energy avalanche

* Alea waffles on what to do

* MRS-T breaks off the flow abruptly

* Alea glances at medicine cabinet

* MRS-T without releasing Veraik jumps off the transfer lounge and drags Veraik with her

* Veraik tries to control, is over controlled then stops.

<Alea> oh good...Mrs T!

<Alea> Stop!

* Alea leaps toward Veraik

<Veraik> What's going on?

* MRS-T slams Veraik up against the wall and turns on the Selyn Blast again

* MRS-T feels a soaring joy

* Veraik tries to control the ambient once more.

* MRS-T feels a boundless enthusiasm

* MRS-T feels a powerful desire to try it backwards how she did with that nice kid that other time.

* Alea runs over to Veraik, but hesitates to do anything as long as Veraik is sitll possibly in control

* Veraik secondary system is being filled to the point of pain.

* MRS-T slams the selyn flow off

* MRS-T releases Veraik, spins him around, slams him face first against the wall, scrambles to get his arms again

<Alea> stop!

* Veraik systems shriek in abuse.

* MRS-T pants greedily

* Alea goes and hits the alarm button

<MRS-T> oh baby!

* wisesnake hears alarm

* Alea runs back over toward Veraik and Mrs. V

* mrT starts at the noise.

<Alea> Mrs. T

* wisesnake winces

<wisesnake> That's uh, it must be, uh,

<wisesnake> I think it's the fire alarm. They are installing and testing a new system right now. Because of last week's fire you know.

<mrT> Oh.

<wisesnake> Nothing to worry about.

<mrT> I'm not worried about it.

* wisesnake smiles

* wisesnake reaches gently for Mr T's arms

* mrT pulls back and crosses his arms.

<mrT> Do you think you could hit a happy medium

* wisesnake pauses

<wisesnake> A medium what?

<mrT> between the quick bandage technique and the slow torture technique? 3

* wisesnake breaks into a big smile

<wisesnake> Sure.

<wisesnake> I enjoy a challenge.

* mrT slowly uncrosses his arms.

* wisesnake thinks to herself wow! I'm not the only one who likes fast/torture!

* Veraik is passed out with the abuse.

* wisesnake reaches for mrT's arms, smiling encouragingly

* Alea kneeling over Veriak, assisting him

<Alea> Stay right over there Mrs. T, we'll talk in a minute

* mrT manages not to flinch too obviously.

* Alea turns to Veraik

* Veraik responds to Alea's nager.

<Alea> come on, hajene

* Alea slips arms up hajene's arms

<wisesnake> shhhh, it's all right to be afraid. Don't lie to yourself, it's not fair to you or me.

<Alea> here I am, it's okay

* wisesnake takes Mr. T's arms in her hands and tentacles

<mrT> Not that again! 4

* wisesnake pauses, confused

<wisesnake> Excuse me?

* Alea makes fifth contact point trying to get Veraik to respond

<Veraik> A tentacle goes to head then moves far up into his sheaths.

<wisesnake> just try to relax, and don't fight your true feelings.

<mrT> The kid who took my donation the last time accused me of lying also.

<mrT> Which one?

<mrT> The two appear to be mutually exclusive at the moment...

* wisesnake grips mr.T's arms and leans forward to get mouth contact, then pauses again.

* Alea gently strokes sheathes

* mrT 's eyes widen.

* Veraik responds to Alea and rest on her field to repair his own.

<Alea> come on, Veraik. It's okay. Your systems are going to be fine

<wisesnake> I'm not making any accusations. I'm just trying to help you enjoy the experience a bit more.

* Alea projecting gentle concern

<mrT> Would you just get it over with?

* Veraik groans.

<wisesnake> Sure, if that's how you want it.

* Alea when sees Veraik is coming around, jumps up and runs to medicine cabinet

* wisesnake gets a better grip on Mr. T's arms and makes a 5th contact.

* Alea quickly pours a glass of fosebine

* mrT remembers too late what happened the last time he made that particular request...

* Alea goes back to Veraik and helps him sit up. Holds glass to his lips

<Alea> drink this, hajene

* Veraik turns his head to se Mrs.T in the corner with a wicked smile on her face.

* wisesnake draws selyn, alternating sometimes between torturously slow, other times scorching fast

<Veraik> Thanks Alea.

* wisesnake is impressed with her own artistry

* Alea sighs with great relief.

* mrT starts to struggle, flaring panic.

* wisesnake thinks what the...

<Alea> I'm so sorry, hajene...she looked so...innocent

<Veraik> ugh! Tastes awful.

<Alea> well, at least if you're well enough to complain...

* Alea smiles gently and rubs Veraik's neck

* wisesnake drags the rest of the selyn out of him by brute force, then lets him go

<Veraik> I know. It's not your fault.

<mrT> What was that all about?

* wisesnake looks confused.

* Alea contiues to gently stroke Veraik's neck in soothing motion, not allowing him to move until she is certain he can stand

<wisesnake> I thought you wanted it halfway slow, halfway fast!

* Alea wondering if she should have given Veraik a triple dose of fosebine or less

* Veraik tries to get up.

* Alea slips her arms around Veraik to help

* Alea keeping a wary eye on Mrs. T

<mrT> I didn't ask to be tortured that way!

* wisesnake sighs.

<Veraik> Thank you.

<mrT> Never mind. I expect my wife will be finished with her donation by now...

<wisesnake> No, wait

<wisesnake> I'm really sorry, I thought that's what you'd asked for.

<mrT> What is it?

<Veraik> Please come with us, Mrs.t.

<wisesnake> Let me examine you and make sure you're okay.

* Alea keeping arm around Veraik, walks iwth him

* mrT backs away quickly.

<mrT> No!

* Veraik baths in Alea's nager.

* wisesnake looks bummed out

* wisesnake looks really* bummed out

<mrT> Oh, very well.

<wisesnake> It's just... yours is the first transfer I've ever given, aside from my personal ones that is, that the person didn't really like it a lot.

* Veraik grabs chart on the way out.

<wisesnake> I usually don't miss the mark this bad.

* wisesnake approaches MrT to examine him

<Alea> alea moves back from Veraik

<mrT> How anyone could like donating is something I will never understand.

<Alea> allowing him to stand on his own

* wisesnake looks at Mr.T

* mrT starts to back away from Snake, then holds his ground.

<wisesnake> It's supposed to feel good. It's supposed to feel really good.

* wisesnake gets a full lateral contact

<Veraik> At front desk, Veraik goes to a drawer and pulls out a RED ALERT Tag and places it on Mrs. T's chart.

* mrT endures it because he gave his word.

* wisesnake withdraws

<wisesnake> Well, you seem to be fine physically.

* mrT flares relief.

* wisesnake seems very relieved herself

<wisesnake> Look, if you don't mind, could you keep this to yourself? I mean, EVERY other Donor has liked me an awful lot.

<mrT> I really should rejoin my wife [impatiently]

<Veraik> Alea?

* wisesnake sighs

<wisesnake> Okay

<Alea> yes, hajene?

* wisesnake unlocks the door and lets Mr. Tengstun out

<Veraik> I just want to close, looks at Mrs. T,

* Alea follows Veraik's gaze

* mrT is feeling a bit post, and therefore not inclined to hold long discussions.

<mrT> Oh, all right.

* wisesnake holds door for him

<Alea> would you like to wait in the lobby, Mrs. T?

<Alea> We'll be right with you

* wisesnake gets the follow up paperwork and hands it to Mr. Tengstun

* mrT leaves the donation room and returns to the lobby.

<wisesnake> Give this to the front desk when you are done.

<mrT> There you are, my dear.

* wisesnake collapses on one of the couches and becomes still

* mrT 's postsyndrome becomes more pronounced at the sight of Mrs. T.

* Mrs grouchily: I'm not done yet.

* Veraik writes another paper and hands it to Mrs. T. (The paper is the normal payment file with a huge READ ALERT sticker on it.)

* Mrs repeats, a bit more loudly, "But I'm not FINISHED yet."

<mrT> What's keeping them?

* Alea moves PROTECTIVELY next to Veraik

* Alea refuses to fail again

<Veraik> Let's go to the front.

* Mrs fidgets anxious/annoyance

<Mrs> But...

<Veraik> Mrs. T, here is your paperwork.

<mrT> Oh, bother the paperwork, my dear.

* Alea keeps a wary eye on mrs. T as she moves next to Veraik's side

<Veraik> You may leave after you have been paid.

<mrT> It's not as if we're donating for the money, after all.

* Mrs says loudly: "I'm not talking about the PAPERWORK I'm talking about my DONATION." 5

<Veraik> What about your donation?

* Alea thinking this is one donation we would GLADLY do without

<Mrs> I'm not... DONE... donating yet!!!

<Mrs> I'm only halfway... Done!

* Alea steps between Veraik and Mrs. T to block her nager

<Veraik> [quirks eyebrow and nager]

* Mrs looks to Mr.T. in appeal, not knowing the right Simelan words.

<Mrs> Honey, tell them for me.

<Veraik> I'm very afraid that you are.

<Mrs> But... it doesn't feel right!

* mrT doesn't speak any Simelan either.

* Veraik smiles

* Alea reaches out and takes Veraik's elbow in attempt to block out Mrs. T

<mrT> Sir, if my wife isn't satisfied with her donation, I suggest you do something about it.

* Mrs squirms "I feel all... unfinished."

<Veraik> Yes. I know, but unfortunately, there is no one who will train you.

<mrT> After all, if a mere child could manage to satisfy her last time, surely a grown man like yourself is up to the challenge? 6

<Mrs> Train me! How about drain me!

<Veraik> Mrs. T. Do you see that RED ALERT tag on the paper I just gave you?

* Mrs looks at paper, confused

<Mrs> Yes?

<Veraik> That means that no Sime will touch you for a donation. You almost killed me.

<mrT> Nonsense!

<Mrs> What!?

<mrT> My wife wouldn't harm anyone.

<Veraik> And the way you are talking, you almost killed that kid.

<Mrs> What are you talking about?!?!

* Alea killed?

* Mrs looks confused, almost ready to burst into tears

<mrT> Are you accusing my wife of attempted murder?

<Veraik> So I have from this moment on Red tagged you. and this paper will be sent to every Center in both Sime and Gen Territories.

* Alea glares at Snake as if this is HER fault

* wisesnake is quite asleep

* Mrs stamps her foot

* mrT glares at Veraik, knowing exactly whose fault the ban is.

<Mrs> I'm not leaving this Center until I get my Donation!!!!

* Alea decides she should have tied her tentacles together after all...she was somehow responsible

<Mrs> And I'm not accepting vague excuses like the ones you've been giving me!

* mrT nods emphatically in support of Mrs. T

* Alea thinks the trin roses may have been trampled, but they could still hide a couple of bodies

* Alea oh, to be back at Zeor again

<Mrs> We had big plans for tonight and you... you...you're ruining them!

* Mrs bursts into tears

<Veraik> I'm sorry Mrs. T. I will allow no one in this Center to touch you. You are in very dangerous person.

<Mrs> [copiously]

* Alea moves closer to Veraik in concern

<Mrs> aawwwwwwwwwwwwbaawwwwwhaawwww!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

<mrT> Look what you've done to my wife!

* mrT hugs Mrs. T protectively.

<Mrs> It took so long to talk him into donating... and your selfishness has ruined everything!!!

<mrT> There, there, dear.

<Alea> would you like me to get a [in simelan]sedation, hajene

* Veraik protects nager.

<Mrs> honey, I wanted so much to share with you... I'm so sorry you had to go through that for nothing....

<mrT> It's all right, dear, it wasn't your fault. [pats her soothingly]

* Mrs cries into Mr's shoulder

<Veraik> Be that as it may. You are not going to be near another Sime.

<mrT> Who do you think you are, ordering my wife around?

* Alea projects soothing nager to Veraik

<Veraik> I am the Controller of this Center.

* Mrs is proud of her husband standing up for her... he's always so brave!

<Veraik> And I have the responsibility to protect my people.

<Alea> actually, it's just about closing time anyway, I don'ot think we'd have time to do anything else

<mrT> Sir, if you are in charge here, I can't think much of your stewardship. [looks around at mess left by the cops]

* Alea trying to ease the tension

<Veraik> Now, please follow Alea and I. We will show you to the payment window.

<mrT> We're not going anywhere until you've finished my wife's donation. AND lifted that ridiculous ban.

* Mrs stands proudly beside her protective husband

<Veraik> All of this just happened only an hour before you arrived. As you can see it will take days to clear everything.

* Alea thinks we out to call the inspector back...what a bunch we've had today

* mrT sniffs, radiating skepticism.

* Alea just throw a party for all the psychos in the area

* Alea thinks inspector, Mr/Mrs T, N&B, oh, and we can't leave out Snake who enjoys painful transfers

* Veraik goes to phone and calls a couple of strong armed reSime's who recently had transfer.

* Alea seriously considers kissing Veraik's feet for his actions

* Alea alea is tired and just wants to go to bed

<Veraik> [They arrive]

* Alea thank you!

<Mrs> Wait a minute... you can't just throw us out of here! This is a public building!

<Veraik> Go to the payment office, get their funds, [hands paperwork to reSime] and get back quickly.

<Veraik> No. This is Sime Territory.

<Veraik> Oh good. your back.

* Alea --steps back out of the way

<mrT> There's no sign to that effect on the front door.

* Veraik handles money to MR and Mrs. T.

<Mrs> There sure isn't! [stoutly]

<mrT> That makes this Gen Territory, if I recall my border law correctly.

<Veraik> YES....THERE IS!!!

<Mrs> What?!?!? This is only half what I got last time!

* Alea wanders over to couch where Snake is...does something that can't be seen by way the couch faces. 7

<Veraik> [I swear these damn Gens can't read their own language!!!]

* Alea smiles down in smug satisfaction at Snake, then wanders back over to Veraik and takes his elbow inconcern

<Veraik> You got pay for what I received. Even you said you had more.

* Mrs shakes her head.

<Mrs> Bunch of criminals if you ask me.

* Veraik motions to the renSimes to remove the T's from the premises.

<mrT> Obviously. Perhaps we should stop by the police. Surely, they'd be willing to investigate such an open attempt to cheat donors.

<Mrs> Hey! Get your hands off me -

* Alea turns to Veraik

* Mrs flares righteous outrage

<Alea> I am so glad...whew

* mrT flares fear at the touch of tentacles.

* Veraik stands close to Alea

* Mrs 's nager becomes a throbbing beacon of injured outrage

* mrT struggles against the renSime who is holding him.

* Alea simply watches thinking good riddence

* Mrs tries to grab her Sime by the arms

<Veraik> [The renSimes succeed.]

* Mrs picks herself up from the dust in the street, looking a bit rumpled

<Alea> I have a gun if you require its use[muttered under her breath]

* Veraik wanders over to look at Snake.

<mrT> I shall certainly discuss this with the Police Commissioner!

* Mrs dusts herself off

<Mrs> Wow...

<mrT> Are you hurt, my dear?

<Mrs> All that arguing and wrestling has made me feel kind of...

<Mrs> Excited.

* Mrs looks at Mr. T

<Alea> that show of courage should certainly give her the desired results she was looking for

* mrT looks at Mrs.

<Mrs> Let's go!

<Veraik> What have you done, Alea!!!

<Alea> Alea jumps and looks over at Veraik

* mrT follows Mrs. eagerly.

* Alea innocently

<Alea> me?

* Veraik carefully unwinds tentacles

<Alea> Why, why....nothing

* Alea nager bellows innocence<G>

* wisesnake shifts restlessly but doesn't wake up

<Veraik> yes you..you were the only one in this room who could have done such a thing.

* Alea lifts an eyebrow and then shrugs--typical arrogant 'Farris Fashion'

* Alea 's nager says what are you going to do about it

* Mrs returns to the front door just long enough to pillage the "Sime Territory" sign from the front

* Alea wanders over to window and looks out, ignoring Veraik's attempts to undo the many knots

* Veraik begins to remove rubber bands from pig tail but doesn't succeed without pulling hair.

* wisesnake wakes up groggily

<wisesnake> What the- hey!!!

* wisesnake pushes Veraik's hands away.

<Alea> she wanted a snaky hairdo...I just helped it along

<wisesnake> What in shen do you think you're doing?

* wisesnake stops, zlins Veraik with a surprised expression.

<Veraik> Settled down Snake. I'm just helping you a bit.

<mrT> ==Mrs. can't filch the sign; the police did that an hour earlier, before they started their "inspection"==

<Alea> I wouldn't call -that- help[mutters]

<wisesnake> And what happened to you???

<Veraik> Mrs. T happened to me.

* Alea stretches and yawns

<Veraik> [pulls last band out of hair then using tentacles to straighten hair out]

* wisesnake squirms

<wisesnake> oh leave it

* wisesnake pushes Veraik away

<Veraik> I'm finished anyway.

* wisesnake looks even more skagged than she usually does

<wisesnake> So what was the big deal with Mrs. T? She looked like trouble, but I couldn't zlin exactly...

<Veraik> [needs a transfer shunt to straighten out selyns systems]

<wisesnake> Do you want me to help you out with that?

<Veraik> She was a pervert.

* Alea raises surprised eyebrow

* wisesnake looks interested.

<wisesnake> Really?

<Alea> she's got a perfectly capable Donor right here

<wisesnake> I thought Mr. was, but it turned out to be a language difficulty.

<Veraik> Tried to take transfer from me in 6 different posistions before I got her off me.

* wisesnake laughs.

<wisesnake> Really!

<wisesnake> How perfectly delightful!

<wisesnake> Of course I'm sorry you were injured.

<Veraik> no. it wasn't.

* Alea strolls over to Veraik and Snake

<Veraik> Looks can you handle the shunt?

<wisesnake> Sure

<Veraik> or should I have Alea do it.

<wisesnake> I can do it.

<Alea> why would she take a shunt from you when I am available [touches black ribbons]

* wisesnake gestures at Alea

<wisesnake> Whatever... he's all yours

<Alea> of course, you did help him out earlier...it's your choice Hajene

<Alea> I have other things I can be doing if you'd rather have another channel help you

<wisesnake> oh please

* wisesnake gets up, pretends to have lots of energy, and goes to the front door and looks out

* Veraik goes hyper.

* Alea startled, Alea turns to Veraik and automatically offers her arms

* wisesnake tries the lock on the front door, finds it's broken

<wisesnake> Huh. Have to pay another visit to Vinnie

* wisesnake notices the Sime Center sign really is missing

* Veraik takes arms then lays head on Alea's shoulder.

* wisesnake notices actually most of it is missing; the top and bottom corners are still present, where they splintered away when the sign was ripped off.

<wisesnake> Classy.

<wisesnake> Crowbar-style sign theft, how pre-Unity.

* Alea closes eyes and concentrates on helping Hajene

* Alea wondering is Veraik actually realized we're are standing before all and God in the lobby doing this

* Veraik works systems back backs again from Alea. "Thank you, Naztehr.

<Alea> as you will, Hajene

* wisesnake decides to take a little walk and check out how the neighborhood is "feeling", in light of recent events

* wisesnake thinks the COP was lying about the official complaints, or that were falsified, but also knows the Center has taken a lot of her time recently

see note 9

Notes:

1) Yes, Wisesnake knew Veraik was talking to Tormer. She intercepted the comment in order to prevent Veraik's getting the Police Inspector all riled up again, and to speed getting the Inspector out the door. [return]

2) Interesting! (the implication that this, or some other large peculiar expenditure, has happened  more than once before) [return]

3) In the fanfic excerpt from which Mr. and Mrs. Tengstun were borrowed, Mr. Tengstun was tormented by a student channel who had been dared to get him as frightened as possible and then calm him down again. That channel made a game of alternating draw speeds, referring to the two options as the "Fast Bandage Technique" and the "Slow lingering technique". Mr. Tengstun is not aware that nobody else has ever heard of these "techniques". Snake, not realizing what he really wants is a regular donation (halfway between), thinks he is asking for slow half the time, fast half the time... and being ever so helpful, is glad to oblige. [return]

4) From the same source.. after Mr. Tengstun's eventful first donation, the prankish student channel used reverse psychology on him and convinced him to play down the trauma of the experience by encouraging him to exaggerate his memories of how scary it was. [return]

5) In case anybody hasn't caught on yet, Mr. and Mrs. T were donating for the sole purpose of getting Post. [return]

6) The one who sucessfully served Mrs. Tengstun previously, happened to be a Tigue and therefore extremely resilient. Still came out of the experience half dead though! [return]

7) What Alea actually did was tie all of Snake's tentacles in knots and braid her hair in strange pigtails. [return]

8) Ok, time out. Bender Cove Township was previously established to be in Sime Territory. It just has a high Gen population because it only became Sime Territory a couple of decades or so before. Please ignore references to any issue of in/our Territory with regards to the Bender Cove Sime Center. It's definitely In-, regardless of signage. [return]

9) The end of this log was cut. [return]

Go on to Episode #14: RenSime Seeks Gen Transfer

Return to the Index of Episodes