Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario

Episode #15:  The Gnome (9/15/97)

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* wisesnake is crouched over the file cabinet, intently reading a bright red-marked file.

<Alea> hi

<wisesnake> huh?

<Alea> what are you doing?

<wisesnake> Oh!

* wisesnake jams the file back in the cabinet and stands up casually

* Alea goes over to see file

<wisesnake> Nothing

<wisesnake> [it's Mrs. Tengstun's file]

* Alea pushes her aside and pulls out file

<Alea> what is this?

* Alea waves file

* wisesnake shrugged

<Alea> why were you reading it?

<wisesnake> I was just interested in her case.

<wisesnake> I zlinned what she did to Veraik.

<Alea> yeah, I'm sure you were

<Alea> she almost killed him

<wisesnake> Yes.

<Alea> actually, I guess you would say murder, though I don't think I've ever seen quite a case like that

<wisesnake> Neither have I.

* wisesnake looks a little dreamy

* Alea looks at snake strangely

<wisesnake> Just imagine what a Donor a Gen like that could make!

<wisesnake> She's not even trained and she can overpower a First.

<wisesnake> She obviously has the instinct for field manipulation.

<Alea> well, she didn't overpower him, exactly...

* wisesnake pauses

<wisesnake> Oh?

<Alea> I think Veraik was just so surprised that he didn't react

* wisesnake laughs

<wisesnake> I see.

<wisesnake> Why did he put this red tag on her folder though?

<wisesnake> And why is he talking getting her banned from all Sime Centers everywhere?

<Alea> okay, okay...she's a menace...took him totally by surprise

<Alea> so, where is Veraik?

<wisesnake> Probably passed out due to coital under-deprivation.

* Alea looks shocked

* wisesnake laughs

* Alea blushes

<Alea> I'm sure he won't be here tonight...I think he is resting

* wisesnake suddenly has a great idea for sending Veraik down to Lotta's... a channel ought to be a thrill for the ladies, and he might be able to last all the way thr---

<wisesnake> Oh.

* wisesnake shrugs

<wisesnake> Probably just as well.

<Alea> but Tarsh...[smiles]

* wisesnake 's mood darkens

<wisesnake> Yeah, Tarsh.

* Alea walks over by Snake and leans against filing cabinet

<Alea> so, Snake, what's up with Tarsh and you?

* Alea wondering just what conversation she missed last night

* wisesnake shoots her a narrow eyed look

<wisesnake> what makes you think there's anything between us? [defensively, unusual for her]

* Alea raises an amused eyebrow

<Alea> well, it's rather obvious, sweetie

* wisesnake reconsiders her words and tone

<wisesnake> Well, that is to say,

<Alea> what else would have you so defensive

<wisesnake> I was trying to help him out.

<wisesnake> But I didn't have time to give him as much attention as it would have taken to keep him out of trouble.

<Alea> help him out?

<wisesnake> I knew he was going to run into trouble with a Gen. If not sooner, then later.

<Alea> he seemed pretty stable last night

* Alea thinking of when she 'tested' Tarsh

<wisesnake> Suicidal is the word I would have used.

* Alea also remembers the harsh rebuke from Veraik too

<Alea> suicidal? What do you mean!

<wisesnake> The man has a deathwish. Or if he doesn't he sure acts like he does.

<Alea> why? He gave up the weapon [shudders] and went along with you

<wisesnake> Yeah, well

<Alea> so, what happened

* Alea goes over to pull Tarsh's file

<wisesnake> What happened when?

<Alea> in the room

<wisesnake> Oh.

<wisesnake> Nothing.

<wisesnake> I told him I couldn't help him if he refused to help himself.

* Alea studies Snake curiously

* Alea thinks she was too defensive for that to be the complete truth

* wisesnake rubs her temple, feeling the warning signs of beginning to think responsibly

* Alea goes over and reaches up to rub Snake's temples in empathy

* wisesnake is surprised by the rare show of kindness and wary of the other shoe that is sure to drop.

* wisesnake is also too starved for attention to make her stop

<Alea> just relax...you've been having too many of these lately

* Alea motions her to sit down in Veraik's chair

* wisesnake hesitates, then cautiously sits down

<Alea> relax on my field until that pain goes away

* wisesnake wonders why Alea is being so nice to her, and whether Alea can hide a deception from her.

* Alea alea wonders what Snake thinks of the small changes...ah how the relief of sexual frustration can change a person

* wisesnake eventually gives in and rests on Alea's field somewhat

<Alea> so, snake, what do you see as our plans for this Sime Center

* Alea picks up sewing and begins to stitch

<wisesnake> uhnn?

<wisesnake> [half asleep]

<Alea> never mind...let me tell you what I see while you relax

<wisesnake> uh-hnnn

<Alea> I see this as a place that will eventually change the history of sime/gen cooperation

<Alea> this close to the border will naturally bring more people here to interact

<Alea> if we play our cards right, we can be the premier Center in this Territory

* wisesnake is now completely asleep

<Alea> yes, we can be the top Center

<Alea> we just clean this up, do a little advertising

<Alea> lure the people here

<Alea> yes, it could really be something

* Alea not paying attention and pokes the needle into her hand

* Alea jumps in pain and blood

* wisesnake jumps wildly out of the chair wide awake

<wisesnake> Aagh!!

* wisesnake zlins Alea incredulously

* Alea jumps in respond to snake..fight or flight taking place inside her

* wisesnake stares at Alea's hand

* Alea immediately calms her nager

<Alea> sorry about that

<Alea> I tend toward accidents [shrugs embarrased]

* wisesnake is panting and wild looking

<wisesnake> Shen, you scared the d-

<wisesnake> uh!

* wisesnake presses heel of hand to temple

<wisesnake> This is not too relaxing. Let's skip the relaxation.

* Alea thinking about the hot tea incident

* Alea alea tries to hide her bleeding hand behind her back

<Alea> it's nothing really

<Alea> why don't you just sit back down and relax...we were working on that headache, remember

<Alea> uh, well, if that's what you want

* Alea goes through Veraik's drawers, looking for cloth for injury

<Alea> look at all of this junk

* Alea pulls out playSime and playGen

* Alea tosses them on the desk

* wisesnake sags down in one of the other chairs

<wisesnake> Classy. Old Veraik really knows how to discriminate, doesn't he?

* Alea tosses out other paraphanelia

* wisesnake watches idly

* Alea makes huge pile of misc. stuff on desk, looking for cloth for hand

* Alea thinks if you only knew...you probably will

* wisesnake watches Alea's one-handed fumbles

* wisesnake figures most of the items in that desk are used to being fumbled one-handed

* Alea finally finds cloth...thinks whose it is, and goes to the medicine chest instead

<Alea> can you open this, Snake

* Alea snaps her field at Snake

<Alea> Snake, please...I'm bleeding

<Alea> the medicine chest! Snake!

* wisesnake jerks back

* Alea realizes sounded impatience and forces herself to calm down

* wisesnake gets up, very annoyed

<Alea> I didn't mean to yell. Could you help me here a minute, dear

* wisesnake opens medicine cabinet a little more forcefully than really necessary

<wisesnake> here.

<Alea> thank you

* Alea goes to the sink and sticks hand under water--unfortunately, it's hot water

<Alea> Yeow!!!

<wisesnake> [between the never ending migraine, the jabbed hand, the nageric snap and now this, Snake has just about had it!]

* wisesnake grabs Alea and shoves her down into a chair.

<wisesnake> Don't touch anything.

* wisesnake turns off water.

* Alea blinks up at snake

<Alea> Typical Farris temperament I see

* wisesnake examines Alea's hand; it's a tiny puncture wound, very painful but not actually bleeding much.

<Alea> I don't like blood

* Alea sniffs at Snake's examination

* wisesnake grits her teeth and tries to use her field to stop the tiny bleeding

* Alea forces herself into her professional mode--reminding herself this IS a farris and the games she plays with most channels will bother Snake

* Alea thinks how much she loves to manipulate Simes

* wisesnake wipes the drop of blood off with the tip of a tentacle

* Alea Simes lower than her on the evolutionary scale...not Farrises

<Alea> thank you Snake

* Alea of course, Snake still is in first year...and so young...

<Alea> no, Snake deserves better

* wisesnake now looks about three times as stressed out as before

<wisesnake> no problem. [insincerely]

* wisesnake surveys the pile on Veraik's desk

<Alea> where is tarsh?

<Alea> I thought he was due in to work

<wisesnake> In the east deferment suite. He's been waiting since yesterday.

* Alea looks innocently and shrugs thinking Veraik isn't here...who cares

<Alea> ahhh

<Alea> so there was something going on

* wisesnake looks at her

<wisesnake> What?

<Alea> so, what are the chances of you letting me watch his transfer?

* wisesnake laughs incredulously

<wisesnake> Watch his transfer? Whyever for?

<Alea> just thought it might be interesting

<wisesnake> huh.

* Alea plops herself back down in Veraik's chair and props her feet up

<wisesnake> Who would have thought a guy like Veraik would be into this dime store commercial stuff.

* wisesnake pokes contemptuously through the magazines

* Alea looks at the stuff Snake is playing with

<wisesnake> He can afford the good stuff. Maybe the cheapness is a turn on for him.

<Alea> I think it's boredom

* wisesnake laughs

<wisesnake> You said it, not I.

* Alea shrugs

<Alea> to each his own...

* wisesnake gestures to the mags "Or in this case, to each what a million other people are also zlinning."

* wisesnake laughs

* wisesnake leaves the desk and goes back to the file cabinets

* wisesnake pulls out Mrs. Tengstun's file again

<wisesnake> Now THIS is unique.

* Alea dumps all of the stuff on his desk into a trash can.

<Alea> what is that?

<wisesnake> The fascinating case of Mrs. Tengstun.

* wisesnake opens file again, reads intently

<Alea> I wouldn't quite describe it as fascinating

<Alea> I think the woman is certifiable

<wisesnake> She's just misunderstood.

* wisesnake 's voice betrays a definite hint of intil

* Alea wonders just what has snake responding like that

<Alea> why do you say that?

<wisesnake> She wants to donate, she has all the marks of a Natural.

<Alea> but she hurts people

<wisesnake> And that loyalty! Did you see how she and her husband interacted?

<Alea> don't see that much in relationship now a days

<wisesnake> She just doesn't know any better, because she's never been trained.

<wisesnake> She probably doesn't even realize!

<Alea> you might be right

<Alea> but I don't think Veraik is going to let her back in the doors here

<wisesnake> True. And she lives in Gen Territory, a day and a half travel from here.

<Alea> of course, if someone was in the area

<wisesnake> Well.

<Alea> and they wanted to check to see if she might actually make a good first

* wisesnake closes the folder

<wisesnake> perhaps.

* wisesnake thinks about all the responsibilities preventing her from taking the time to investigate

* wisesnake thinks about all the twisted Tecton rules that would be so difficult to unwind in order to get her hands on the Gen legally

* wisesnake sighs

<wisesnake> Oh well.

* wisesnake puts the folder back

<wisesnake> It's a waste though,.

<Alea> you know, there are some classes coming up in that area that I might be able to negotiate our way with the Tecton

<Alea> of course, the Sime going would have to wear retainers

<Alea> might be something to think about and maybe later on...if someone say, decides they'd like to see Mrs. T...

* Alea shrugs

* wisesnake shudders

<wisesnake> No retainers for me.

* Alea alea smiles

<wisesnake> If I have to avoid Gen Territory for my entire life to avoid wearing retainers, that's what I'll do.

<Alea> There are places down there where you can remove them

<wisesnake> Not if I never put them on.

<Alea> whatever, just think about it

<Alea> Mrs. T might be just what you need, someone with as much umph as you

* wisesnake thinks about the retainers and stress levels go up about 3 notches

<Alea> have you ever worn retainers before?

* wisesnake thinks about that nasty sweaty feeling, and when you get all nauseated, and...

* wisesnake 's tentacles writhe

<Alea> maybe it would help if you did...Veraik has a pair in his room...

* wisesnake 's face is transformed by an entirely undisguised look of alarm

<wisesnake> Uh, no. Ixnay on that idea.

<Alea> then again, if you aren't into...uh, would rather not

<Alea> fine, fine

* wisesnake presses her hands to her eyes momentarily

<wisesnake> ugh!

* wisesnake thinks I am going to freak out.

<Alea> so, what time is tarsh's transfer due?

<wisesnake> Another five hours.

* wisesnake wishes it was a lot sooner, she has to have something to DO.

<Alea> oh, and i thought it was fifty two hours yesterday

* Alea gets up to go check chart

* wisesnake shakes her head

<Alea> oh, I see you're right

<wisesnake> I need to do something.

* wisesnake jumps up restlessly

<Alea> I'm willing..whatta you want to do?

* Alea hears someone at door and goes to see who it is

<Alea> hello...

* wisesnake says to herself, "Well, another time then."

<JonDrake> I wanted to double check that all my paperwork is in order this time...

<Alea> for what?

<JonDrake> After all, I had to fill out some of the forms the last time I was by...

<Alea> ah...yes...well, you know our clerk tends to misplace files

<Alea> I'm sure everything is in order

<Alea> yes?

* wisesnake slips down the hallway to the living quarters

* Alea wishing Snake hadn't left...but thinking this one looks better than the last one

<JonDrake> Ok...Last time I was here there were some questions about all of the paperwork. I don't want to have to wait again next time...

<Alea> oh, yes...YOU were the one

* Alea eyes him and smiles

<Alea> come on over here and sit down

* Alea motions to couch

* JonDrake points to himself questioningly.

<Alea> yes

* Alea pats couch

* wisesnake slips into Alea's room

<JonDrake> Ok.

* JonDrake moves over to the couch.

* Alea smiles encouragingly, glad Veraik isn't here

<Alea> so, why do you come to donate

* wisesnake starts looking through Alea's drawers.

* wisesnake has already been through them before.. she's not exploring, but looking for a particular item

* Alea smiles at Jon and wonders if it's more than just donation since he's back so soon

<wisesnake> aha.

<Alea> now Jon, tell me, why are you back so soon...your donation isn't scheduled for another three weeks

* wisesnake finds the handgun hidden beneath a makeshift zlin screen made up of sequined stockings wrapped around a steel brassier

<wisesnake> ver-y sneaky.

* wisesnake pauses

* wisesnake reads the note attached to the brassiere:

<wisesnake> "To Alea my love, you hold the BONDS to my heart???????" Egads!!!

<wisesnake> Signed Veraik.

<wisesnake> Ucch

<wisesnake> I wonder what he meant by BONDS.

* wisesnake scratches head

<wisesnake> Oh well.

* Alea pats Jon's leg

<Alea> It'll be just fine...relax

<Alea> You know, I've seen your type many times

<JonDrake> Like I said, I was here to check my records....

* wisesnake tries on the brassiere and stockings

<Alea> they come in under the pretense of checking their records

<wisesnake> You know, I just don't think a Sime is designed to bring this off correctly.

<Alea> when they want something more

<JonDrake> But I have to admit, that I'm feeling a little differently than I did after my first donation.

<Alea> I'm wondering just what it is your wanting

<JonDrake> A little more anxious, perhaps.

<wisesnake> Let's see.

<Alea> well, I can't zlin, but I'm wondering if perhaps

* wisesnake finds some rolled up socks and stuffs them in the steel brassiere so it sticks out.

<Alea> you should have been assigned to someone else...you

<wisesnake> Ah! That's better.

<wisesnake> Look - I'm a Gen!

* wisesnake flounces klutzily, but alluringly, about the room

<Alea> you...have a much higher field then I would think you should.

<wisesnake> zlin me! I'm an easy target. [makes kissing mouth at self in mirror]

<Alea> have you been around any Simes lately, on a regular basis?

<wisesnake> Wait.. I'm missing the shoes. Gens always wear those crazy shoes.

* wisesnake starts rummaging through Alea's closet

<wisesnake> here they are! [4" stiletto heels, also sequined]

<JonDrake> It seems like it lately.

* wisesnake straps them on

* wisesnake giggles

<Alea> well, there is your problem, though it's not really a problem

<wisesnake> Wow, I am, like, much taller now.

<Alea> you know, you are the perfect candidate for Donor school

<Alea> how long since you established?

<JonDrake> I really have no idea. I didn't have any Simes around me growing up.

<Alea> If you aren't too far past establishing, then it's possible you can still be of use...I mean, find fullfillment

<JonDrake> Why? Is there a problem?

<Alea> no...just the opposite...you could actually be a very valuable asset to this community if I'm right

<Alea> of course, I'm only a Donor so I can't test you

* wisesnake puts on Alea's underwear

<wisesnake> Ooh, I am HOT

<wisesnake> [exmining appearance in mirror]

<wisesnake> I should have been a Gen.

<Alea> of course, if you want to stay around awhile....

* wisesnake readjusts socks in cleavage

* wisesnake poses with the gun, trying to look like a detective thriller cover photo

<wisesnake> Danger... excitement... mystery!!!

<Alea> We have a channel here would check you out

* wisesnake sighs

<wisesnake> Oh well.

<Alea> so, would you like to stick around and let Snake zlin your field or just check back later?

* wisesnake removes all of the clothing items and puts them back where they belong

* Alea moves closer

<Alea> I don't think you're paying attention Jon

<JonDrake> Oh, sorry. You were saying?

* Alea runs hand up thigh

<Alea> I said, perhaps you would allow Snake to zlin you when she finally shows back up

* wisesnake slips out Alea's door, and into Veraik's

<JonDrake> Uh..w-what are you doing?

* Alea thinks he can't be that dense

* JonDrake is a little confused, but still seems to like the attention.

* Alea moves hand up a bit further

* JonDrake looks to the entrance way, worried that someone will walk in at any moment.

<Alea> we really need a donor here...perhaps you would consider ... staying

* Alea anticipates the chance that they might get caught

*** Lowren (unknown@crl2.crl.com) has joined #simegen

* Alea Alea immediately sits back

* Lowren Oh! Excuse me.

<Alea> Lowren...how nice to see you

* Alea motions to lobby couch

* Lowren turns and walks out quickly.

<Alea> please, have a seat

<JonDrake> Uh, sure.. The work repairing the docks is pretty hard work, and it won't last forever.

* JonDrake is not used to such recruitment procedures..

* wisesnake finishes forging the letter from Alea and smiles fondly at it.

* Alea pouts when Lowren leaves

* JonDrake sits upright.

<Alea> well, then will you consider allowing Snake to zlin you right now, today

<Alea> I'm sure that's what you're here for

<Alea> or you would not have come back so soon

* wisesnake reads the letter aloud:

<wisesnake> "Dearest Veraik, how I have longed for the moments when your sweet touch shall divest me of my enflam'd heat..."

<JonDrake> If you're sure. This is all so new to me. The first donation seemed so routine.

<Alea> if you'll just right here...let me go find Snake

* Alea gets up and goes to find Snake

<wisesnake> "and your gentle strength shall protect and uplift me from all the petty --" eh, that's good enough.

* Alea goes down the hall...

* wisesnake stashes letter and leaves Veraik's room by way of the window.

* wisesnake comes in the front door of the Sime Center, quite casually.

* Alea looks around...

<wisesnake> Hi JonDrake, Lowren! What a surprise to see the two of you here!

* Alea goes back toward front

* Alea walks in and sees Snake...smiles in relief and uses her nager to show her desire that Snake handle Jon

<Lowren> Wisesnakes sees Lowren sitting to one side of the door, hunched over. ~~throbbing pain~

<wisesnake> Uh -

* wisesnake 's responsibility headache, temporarily banished, comes back with a vengeance

<wisesnake> Alea, just a moment please.

* wisesnake goes to Lowren

<wisesnake> Lowren!

<Lowren> [me is outside the door]

* wisesnake zlins lowren

* Alea excuses herself from Jon follows Snake

<Alea> is he okay?

* Lowren has a badly injured arm wrapped up in an old shirt.

* wisesnake zlins the injury

* JonDrake wonders what is happening. He can hear the commotion, but can't see what's going on outside the door.

<Lowren> ~~The arm is broken in one spot, as if it was struck by a round metal bar.~~

* Alea alea sees all the blood and forces her gorge down...it's been so long since she worked in these situations

* wisesnake steels her nager against Alea's unhelpful feelings

<wisesnake> [to Lowren] Please, let me help you into the Center.

* Alea forces her feelings aside and becomes the Companion that Snake requires

<Lowren> ~~lesser bruises to the chest near the arm~~

* Alea steps up to help Snake where needed

* wisesnake helps Lowren to his feet

<Lowren> Uh, Miz Snake. Could you help me?

* Lowren rises slowly.

* wisesnake grimaces at the butchering of her name

<Alea> how can I help, Snake?

<wisesnake> [kindly] of course we can heal you, Lowren.

<Lowren> "I don't have any money, but you could take it out of my future donations if you'll trust me."

<wisesnake> [to Alea] please back me up.

* Alea nods

<wisesnake> It doesn't cost anything to get healed. Please come inside.

* wisesnake coaxes Lowren toward the doorway

<Lowren> ~~puzzled~~

* wisesnake isn't used to working with Donor support

* Lowren stumbles and hits the side of the door, jarring his arm. ~~Pain~~

* wisesnake wonders if she can trust Alea to stay with her.

* wisesnake feels every bit of it

<wisesnake> shen you Alea, get with it!

* Alea moves up and touches Alea's elbow

<Alea> forgive me hajene

* Alea snaps herself to attention

<Alea> room 6 is open

* wisesnake says to Alea, "Take him to room 6 then."

* wisesnake hands Lowren off to Alea

* Alea alea wraps her arm around Lowren's waist

<Alea> come on, we'll just be real careful now not to jar that arm

* Alea leads him down the corridor

<Alea> how did this happen Lowren?

* Alea looks at break and allows nausea to roil since Snake isn't right by her

* wisesnake retreats outside for a few minutes

<Lowren> Thank you Miss.

* Alea gets him insdie room and helps him onto the table

<Lowren> I fell out of a window. Landed on some junk.

* Alea goes to the cabinet and gets out a healthy dose of fosebine

* Alea studies wound and wonders if that's really the truth

<Alea> you just lay there and let me cut your top off so we can get a beter look at you

* Alea goes to get sisscors

* Alea cuts off shirt and carefully removes it

* Alea gets hot water to bathe him

* Lowren sips at the fosebine, grimaces, then steels himself and gulps it down.

* Alea notes the wounds on his chest...gets fresh water to bathe his arm

<Lowren> Thank you for helping Miz. I don't think we met last time. I'm Lowren J-*"

<Alea> My name is Alea Farris.

* Alea wonders what his last name is

<Alea> now this is going to hurt, JUST A BIT

* Alea reaches for his arm and carefully straightens it out...laying it gently on an extension that is pulled out from the bed

* Lowren grits his teeth. Go ahead.

<Lowren> Hunnnnhhh!

<Alea> I know, I know,hon[makes soothing noises]

<Alea> we gotta get that layed out though so the snake...er Wise Snake can see it

* Alea carefully peels the old shirt away

* Alea grimaces

<Alea> you certainly did a bang up job on this

* wisesnake re-enters the Sime Center, with misgivings

* wisesnake tells herself to stop stalling and go in there

* wisesnake shields herself and goes in

<wisesnake> Well, Lowren, I see that Alea has been taking good care of you.

* wisesnake zlins the injuries

<Lowren> "I didn't have any money to go to a Doc, but I thought I could get advanced on my next fee."

* Alea shakes her head

<Alea> don't you worry about that right now

<Alea> you just let us get you fixed up

<wisesnake> So, after I took your donation, Lowren, did you go find your friend like you said you would?

* Alea goes and gets large cloth and bathes the blood and gore away from arm

<Alea> is that fosebine helping the pain yet

<Lowren> A little. It still hurts, but the pain is further away, kinda.

* Alea gently pushes hair back and dabs at the sweat on Lowren's brow

<Alea> give it a minute and you'll be feeling much better

* Alea wondering if the pain is down enough now to call snake

<Lowren> Shouldna have trusted that window.

<Alea> they'll betray you everytime 1

* Alea shakes head with a small smile

* Alea turns to Snake and steps over to help support her

<Lowren> Yes, Miz Farris has been very Kind, Miz Snake.

<Alea> you warm enough?[to Lowren--goes and gets sheet to cover him with]

* wisesnake seems distracted

<wisesnake> Alea. If you're going to support, support.

Part of log missing: See note 2

<Lowren> Do Simes really do that? Change their names?

<Alea> oh well, sometimes Lowren. Snake here is what we would call a free spirit

* wisesnake looks irritated, seems to come out of own thoughts

<wisesnake> As it happens, Snake is my given name.

<Alea> hajene, I think Lowren is looking a tad bit shocky

<wisesnake> I was named after my father.

<Lowren> My ma named me after her older brother. I never knew him.

* wisesnake shoots Alea a "get real" look

* Alea Alea realizes Snake is a Farris and she shouldn't have correct her like that

<Alea> sorry, hajene

* Alea turns her attention on Snake to offer her full support

* Alea drops Snake's arm so she can move freely

* wisesnake prepares to do some healing work with Lowren

* wisesnake makes small talk as she examines him

<Lowren> That milk stuff is putting me to sleep...

<wisesnake> Well, I didn't know my father either. Neither did my mother come to think of it...

* Alea seeing Lowren drifting off looks at Snake

<wisesnake> But she named me after "that Snake" anyway

<Alea> if you don't require my help I would leave, hajene

<Lowren> ~~surprise tinged with revulsion, quickly replaced with sympathy~~

* wisesnake says quietly to Alea, "You are required in a supportive role."

<Lowren> Musta been rough like that...

* Alea nods

* wisesnake shrugs

<wisesnake> It makes a good conversation starter anyway.

<wisesnake> So tell me... how much contact have you had with Vit and his boys?

* wisesnake works on Lowren's injuries

<Lowren> Vit? Who...?

* wisesnake smiles sadly

<wisesnake> I know you've been hanging out with him at least a little. He talked about you.

<Lowren> Whad he shay?

<Lowren> Dat da guy wid da funny colored hands? 3

<wisesnake> Yes.

* wisesnake concentrates on healing the arm first

* Alea glances at dirty clothes in floor and decides to pick them up

* Alea goes over to cabinet and places them on top and then wanders to the window

<Lowren> Yeah a bit. Always whining about his job and stuff.

<wisesnake> He has a rough bunch of friends, Vit does.

<wisesnake> Reckless types.

<Lowren> Why? What do they do?

<wisesnake> Oh,

<wisesnake> You know,

<wisesnake> Beat people up and things

<Lowren> What for?

* Alea goes back over to Snake's side

<wisesnake> You tell me.

<Lowren> he wanted me to go to some bar with him but momma always said "You stay awway dem places."

<Alea> do you need anything hajene

* Alea smiles sweetly at Snake and touches her elbow

<wisesnake> [to Alea, in a low voice] Please! Just stay right here and be supportive.

<Alea> of course, hajene

<wisesnake> [to Lowren] What kind of places?

* Alea thinking Snake looks awfully jumpy...and wondering if maybe she is more sensitive than some of the other channels she's worked with over the last year

* Alea keeps attention on snake thinking SUPPORT...support...sooooothing, confident...support

<Lowren> Bars. "strong drink is a mocker, the devil's tool. It'll make your kids turn ..."

<wisesnake> Uh- yeah.

<wisesnake> Look,

* Alea completely focused...impressed with Snake's abilities

<wisesnake> why don't you tell me what happened.

* Alea thinking he fell out of a window...he said that...he fell out of a window....sssshhhhhbamb

* wisesnake zlins Lowren's chest injury

* Alea bets it was really painful...tumbling and knocking around on stuff before finally smashing into the hard objects below

* wisesnake 's tentacles twitch restlessly

* wisesnake shivers

<Lowren> I was looking out the window at the hotel, and I was holding the bottom of the open window. The bottom, but it was up in the middle, you know. And I leaned too hard and it came off in my hands.

* Alea yep...ssshhhbamb smack...aaaaaeeeeyyyi...thunk

<wisesnake> Alea! Would you please go wait out in the lobby.

* Alea blinks

<Alea> of course hajene

* Alea leaves

<Lowren> [The chest injury looks it came from the arm ramming into it.]

* Alea alea starts down the hall...

* Alea sees Snake's door is open..hmmm...

* Alea looks around..sees no one and goes inside

* Alea is wondering what type of person snake really is

* Alea goes to cloeset and rummages through there

* wisesnake zlins Lowren for the truth

<wisesnake> Did you really just accidentally fall out of a window?

* Alea darn, nothing there

* Alea goes to desk

* Alea pulls out drawers one by one...hmm...holds up bottles

<Alea> why that shendoni...

<Lowren> ~~unsure of something about that story~~

<Alea> I was turning blue and here was one of the medicines that could have helped me recover from the bug spray

* Alea tosses the various drugs back in

* Alea wonders if it has to do with her bad transfers that she keeps so many medicines around her

* Alea looks under bed

<Lowren> Well, someone may have bumped into me...

* Alea just dusty and eeeeuuuuwww...stinky shoes...and ratty underwear

* Alea looks around...goes over and closes the door

* Alea sneaks back over and crawls into Snake's bed....hmmm....wonders who else has been here

* wisesnake massages her forehead with the fingers and tentacles of one hand

<wisesnake> Okay...

* Alea wonders...stops...feels a lump

* Alea flips over to see what is under pillow...pulls out drugs....

<Lowren> But I didn't see nothing.

* Alea ooh...wonders just who she shares these with....

* Alea stretches back out, running hand along sheets.....

* Alea 's toe connects with something

* Alea crawls down under sheets to see and shrieks with delight

<wisesnake> Lowren, I'm a little bit concerned about the crowd you've fallen in with since coming to Bender Cove.

* Alea backs out, flopping down on bed and pulls out a whip

<Alea> well, you are certainly a surprise, Snake

<Lowren> They seem OK guys, but a little poopymouthed.

<Alea> I could have sworn this was what someone had found in Klana's room...

* Alea shrugs...puts it back

* Alea goes to Snake's drawers and pulls out some undergarments

* HelloNurs walks into the treatment room to see if anything is needed...

<HelloNurs> Is there anything you'll be needing Hajene?

* Alea takes her nicest pair of underwear...slips out to Tarsh's room

* Lowren moves slighly like he is trying to get up.

<wisesnake> Hold on, Lowren.

<wisesnake> Ah. Yes, nurse, could you please locate Alea and get her to come back here, please?

* Alea slips the garments into top desk drawer and quickly pens a flaming love note

<wisesnake> Wait -

* Alea changes her mind and leaves the note and underwear somewhere else where Tarsh will discover it quickly

* Alea slips back out of Tarsh's room and into Snake's room

<HelloNurs> Yes, Hajene?

* Alea writes several more notes to Tarsh, slipping them throughout the Center in places where Tarsh will find them

* Alea admires the last one

<Alea> that should do it...your would-be passionate lover

* Alea adds a note

<wisesnake> Lowren, as I was saying, I am a little bit concerned about the folks you've fallen in with. I know them, and they won't be good for you.

* HelloNurs wonders why the Hajene would ask him to wait and then say nothing...

<Alea> only come to me my love and we will soar to the heavens together...

* Alea smiles, slips it in a secret place and goes to Veraik's office

<HelloNurs> Will there be anything else, Hajene or sould I locate Alea now?

* wisesnake glances at HelloNurs, distracted.

<Lowren> If you say so, Miz Snake. Should I go live somewhere else do you think?

<wisesnake> I think you should be a little more careful about who you associate with.

* Alea smugly puts my feet up, thinking how much she is going to enjoy watching the drama unfold

<wisesnake> Now. It's been, what, a week since you donated, am I correct?

<Lowren> ~~Momma would want me to go to church, but I don't know if you have them here."

* wisesnake pauses

<Lowren> yes it has. My money isn't gonna last, I need to find a job.

* HelloNurs pauses another moment and continues with Wisenake's first request...

* Alea alea decides to wander back down the hall

* HelloNurs begins to search the floor for Alea.

<wisesnake> Have you actually tried to look for a church, Lowren?

* Alea examins the repairs, encouraging renSimes and Gens in their duties

* Alea smiles with approval to see so much work getting done...stops to straighten a picture

<Lowren> No, I mean how could there be a church in-Territory? A prop-*

* Alea looks in room 4 and sees the door has been rehung

* Alea remembers the mess it was in

* HelloNurs finally makes it to Room 4 and spots Alea...

* Alea sees room five is now reopened too

<wisesnake> So you haven't even tried.

* wisesnake sighs

* HelloNurs calls out as he hurries to Room 5..

<wisesnake> How have you gone about looking for a job?

* Alea turns

<Alea> Yes?

* Alea looks down at nurse's arms

* HelloNurs is a renSime.

<HelloNurs> Sorry to interrupt, but Hajene wishes you to go to the treatment room.

<Alea> thank you

* Alea nods to workers and goes to room

* HelloNurs heads back to the Treatment room as well..

* Alea smiles with a sudden thought

<Lowren> I mean to, but I worry that I can't get anything because I don't speak Simelan well.

<Alea> just how close to need are you, Nurse?

<wisesnake> So you are saying, you haven't actually looked for a job yet?

<HelloNurs> 8 days past turnover, why do you ask?

<Lowren> Not really, no.

* Alea frowns

<Alea> too far away

<Alea> oh, well, there was this gen who really wanted to --talk-- to a Sime who was in actual need

* HelloNurs looks quizzically..

* Alea shrugs

<Alea> you wouldn't question a FARRIS [arrogantly]

<HelloNurs> Yes?

* wisesnake rubs eyes

<wisesnake> Look, ah,

<wisesnake> Vit told me you were a crack shot with a rifle. How does he know that?

<Alea> oh well...I'll tell you what...run down and check on Tarsh and see if he's ready for his transfer...if he is...Snake should be notified

<HelloNurs> Right away!

* Alea thinking darn...would have been interesting to see what the case in room one would have done with a renSime in need

* Alea thinks will have to delay that next letter to...looks around...thinks silly...no one can zlin thoughts

<Lowren> I won a medal my junior year. County champion. ~~pride~~

<wisesnake> That's, uh, great Lowren. Did you do some shooting for Vit?

<Lowren> I may have bragged abut it.

<wisesnake> Demonstrations...?

<Lowren> ~~puzzled~~ No, I left my rifle at home when ... and my father didn't put it with the rest of my stuff.

* HelloNurs does the nursely thing and acts as a fetchit and hunts down Tarsh...

<wisesnake> Okay.

* HelloNurs goes out to the Lobby to check up on Tarsh...

* HelloNurs returns

<HelloNurs> Tarsh is ready, Hajene...

* wisesnake takes Nurse aside

<Lowren> <Tarsh is not in the lobby. the board has him in a deferement room.>

<HelloNurs> Yes..

* Alea goes up to the lobby

* Alea sees a person standing there looking around

<wisesnake> [to Nurse] Lowren here just came in from Gen territory. He had a few bad experiences and doesn't have any family in town here.

<wisesnake> [to Nurse] He

<HelloNurs> Yes, Hajene?

<wisesnake> [to Nurse] He hasn't been able to find a job, or a church, or anything on his own... he's afraid of the language barrier.

<Alea> may I help you?

* Alea looks at newcomer

<wisesnake> [to Nurse] Could you possibly take him under your wing for a couple of days, until he gets straightened out?

<wisesnake> [to Nurse] He has a place to stay for at least a week, I have him put up at Shey's.

<HelloNurs> Alright, Hajene, I'll do what I can.

* Linn looks relieved.

<Linn> Oh, I hope so.

<wisesnake> Lowren, this is Nurse... uh...

<Alea> what seems to be the problem?

<HelloNurs> Hel'o

* Alea looks Linn from head to foot, noting her arms, her outfit she's wearing

<Linn> I'm Linn Haskall, and I teach at the elementary school. I'm here to talk to Mr. [looks at piece of paper] Ferrik? 6

* Alea looks confused

<wisesnake> He's going to help you out with some of those things you mentioned you were having problems with okay?

<Alea> I don't think there is a Ferrik here

<Alea> just what did you wish to speak with him about

<Lowren> I've been too much of a bother already....

<Linn> Or, no that's Veraik. Our principal always did have terrible handwriting.

* wisesnake struggles to keep her intense raging headache from debilitating the nearby RenSime

<Alea> ahhh...Veraik

* Alea smiles

<Alea> he's not here. Perhaps I can help you

<wisesnake> No, Lowren, nobody is "too much of a bother". We want to help you.

<HelloNurs> Hello, Lowren...

<Linn> Yes, he's supposed to be the person in charge here.

* Alea touches the Farris black braid

<Linn> Oh, I hope so.

<Alea> come on into the office

* wisesnake backs towards the door, waiting to see if they start talking.

* Alea points to her right

* Linn is a nondonor, and has no idea of the significance of the black braid.

* Linn follows Alea into the office.

* Alea alea is just arrogant and thinks everyone does

<Alea> have a seat...[seats herself behind desk]now what is the problem

<HelloNurs> Lowren, are you from out-territory?

<Linn> Well, we have a new principal--he's the one with the terrible handwriting.

* Alea smiles patiently

* wisesnake slips out the door and closes it gently

<Lowren> Hello Miss. My name is Lowren J-*

<Linn> He's asked me to start a class to teach the children something about your Sime Center.

<Alea> oh really?

<Alea> well, that's great

<Lowren> Yes, I grew up in Hamish county.

<Alea> And just what is it we can help you with?

* wisesnake goes to her room

* wisesnake surveys the mess Alea left

<Linn> Well, I'm a history teacher, really. I don't know anything at all about the subject. I thought perhaps you might have some materials?

<Lowren> We didn't have any Simes around there, of course.

* Alea smiles

* wisesnake shakes her head "If I could ever get it together in housekeeping I just might be able to get my life together as well." [sighs]

<Alea> sure. Hold on just a minute

* Alea goes to closet and pulls out pamphlets and brochures

* Alea sits them on the desk...several of each stack

* HelloNurs silently breaths a sigh of relief Lowren didn't comment on the bilingual pun caused by the similarity between Hel`o's name and the Gen word of greeting...

* Linn picks up one of the pamphlets and glances through it.

<Lowren> But I had to leave and come in-territory.

<Alea> we have the basic information on the border history here, the legends, etc

<Alea> then there are the more technical brochures that describes just what is happening and the relationship between the Channel, the Sime and the Gen

<Hel`oNurs> "Had to?" Hel`o asks...

<Alea> and of course, we also have information on the center itself

* wisesnake rummages through her desk, closet, and under the bed

<Linn> Well, this is very good for background, but a little complicated for seven-year-olds. They prefer a more hands-on approach, really.

* Alea stacks them up and puts them in a large bag

* wisesnake mutters "Where in shen did I -- ?"

<Alea> ahh...forgive me...was thinking a bit older

* Alea puts the bag aside

<Alea> how about the coloring book approach

<Lowren> My Father threw me out and said I had to go in-territory.

<Alea> each page has pictures and tells different stories about the center

<Linn> That might be more appropriate.

* Alea goes back to closet and rummages around pulls out large stacks of books

<Alea> here they are

* wisesnake gives up and goes up to the front of the building

* Hel`oNurs wonders if he should continue with this question...

<Alea> these are quite popular at some of the other centers...you can do all kinds of lessions with them without disturbing the parents OR

* Linn looks over the books.

<Alea> the children

<Linn> I can see the purple tentacles now.

<Linn> I have one little boy who refuses to use any other color.

<Alea> aren't children wonderful

<Alea> we have several channels here who would be glad to come and speak

<Lowren> I have a friend from school who is in-t somewhere. He had to come in about 5 years ago when he was ... When he changed over.

<Alea> unfortunately, they're busy currently...

* wisesnake enters Veraik's office and heads rather singlemindedly for the medicine cabinet

<Alea> If you care to wait, though

<Alea> AH...here is one now.

<Alea> Snake...

* Alea stands

* Linn views Snake with some alarm.

* Alea moves over next to Linn

* wisesnake mutters to self as she starts digging through the contents of the medicine cabinet

<Lowren> He was named Parnul Retten. Do you know him, by any chance?

* Alea smiles at Linn

<Hel`oNurs> If you'd like, we can try and look him up...

<Alea> Channels sometimes are singleminded in their quests

* Linn blinks in astonishment at being so thoroughly ignored.

<Alea> me moves over to snake and touches her elbow

* wisesnake jumps

<wisesnake> shen!

* Alea eyes widen

<wisesnake> Where did you come from!

<Hel`oNurs> It may take a bit of time, but the records should be _somewhere_ in the Tecton.

* Alea shoots a "see waht I mean smile" at Linn

<Lowren> I heard that lots of Simes change names when they come in. If he did I don't know what I'll do.

<Alea> we have a guest from the local school

* Linn nods in misunderstanding.

<Alea> she is interested in getting some information

<Alea> I thought you might be interested in sharing some about the center

<Lowren> They have records of that sort of thing?

<Hel`oNurs> Hmmm... It could be. Do you have the date and region of his changeover?

<wisesnake> Uh.

<Linn> Miz Alea mentioned that one of your channels here might be able to come and visit.

<Lowren> My Father always said it was none of the gubmint's beeswax who lived where...

* wisesnake focuses on Linn

<Hel`oNurs> Your father didn't know the Tecton...

* Linn moves unobtrusively to put Alea between her and Snake.

<Lowren> the Sime center in Hamish, of course, and that was ...

<Lowren> You Certainly Got That Right!

* Lowren laughs and then winces.

* wisesnake is a short, scrawny channel indeterminate age, with weird pale eyes, long skanky black hair, and a distinctly sleazy aura.

<Lowren> He was in the freshman Track meet, but he missed the spring achivement test...

* Linn does not find this a reassuring sight.

* Alea moves gracefully across floor to straighten something on desk...doing her best to make it look natural and put Linn at ease

<wisesnake> [to Alea] Did that medical shipment from the Tecton come in yet?

<Alea> no, hajene, it's due in tomorrow

<Hel`oNurs> That will give me something to work with...

<Lowren> So it was between December and March 3 years ago.

* wisesnake looks discouraged

<wisesnake> Oh, great.

* Linn is trying very hard to be polite and hide what she feels is an inappropriate degree of apprehension.

* Alea 's nager blares to Snake to pay attention

* wisesnake starts violently at the blare

<Lowren> will they have is old name down?

* Linn starts at Snake's start.

* Alea tones it down several degrees

<Alea> Snake has lived here quite a while

<wisesnake> uh...

<Hel`oNurs> He's likely to have registered initially with that name in any case.

* Linn nods politely.

<Alea> she would probably be your best bet in talking to the children

<Lowren> He was 15. They say he had a very hard time, even at the EssSee.

<Alea> she's wonderful with the untrained and children

* wisesnake tries to guess where they are in the conversation she ignored the first half of

* wisesnake smiles at Linn

* Alea smiles encouragingly at Snake

<wisesnake> Sure, ah,

<Alea> I'm sure Veraik would agree that she's the best choice to talk to the children at your school

<Lowren> Who would I need to ask about that?

<Alea> maybe give a few classes

* wisesnake seems a little strained.

<wisesnake> Sure. That sounds uh...

* Linn wishes the Sime Center had a more dignified-looking representative, but will take what she can get.

<Alea> great, doesn't it. Just great

<wisesnake> Great [weakly]

<Alea> she knows all the ins and outs...probably knows most of the kids in the area

<Alea> great gal

* wisesnake grimaces

<Linn> And perhaps...

<Linn> might it be possible...

<Hel`oNurs> Ok, let me take down any other information and I'll see what I can do with the system.

<Alea> yes?

<Linn> Well, I've heard that some of the larger Sime Centers give tours. A field trip always makes a lesson stick so much better...

<Linn> You don't suppose...?

* Alea turns to snake to see what she has to say

<wisesnake> I think that would be a -

<wisesnake> a -

<Hel`oNurs> There was one secretary I once knew Redaro Rilay. He could get just about anything done, Tecton bureaucracy notwithstanding.

* Hel`oNurs leads Lowren off to get all of the information....

<Lowren> Oh. Forms and Stuff?

<Alea> that's wonderful!

<wisesnake> [weakly] a wonderful idea.

* Lowren goes with Hel`oNurs

<Alea> of course, you would have to give us a week or two...we're doing a bit of remodeling

<Hel`oNurs> Not really, just trying to get all the information you may remember to help.

<Linn> Marvelous! The children will be so excited!

* wisesnake massages forehead

<wisesnake> children.

<Alea> and if possible, we'd like to plan something special, maybe a film or small party for the kids afterwards. Snake makes a wonderful clown

* Alea beaming with pride

<Linn> Oh, yes, they would love that.

* wisesnake 's expression turns very cold

<Alea> and of course, Veraik would enjoy talking to them too

<Alea> you know, you might rather see his magic act instead

<Linn> Oh, magic is such a ...touchy subject.

<Alea> oh, we can work all of that out later...just get with the person at the front desk and they'll check the schedules...

<Linn> You know how parents can be.

<Alea> well, that's true. Okay, clowns and punch it is

* wisesnake remains very still and quiet to avoid doing anything rash

* Alea turns to Linn

<Linn> There would be the thirty-five children, myself and my teaching assistant, and we'll have to have some chaperones...

<Alea> excuse me a moment.

* Alea goes out to check with front desk about dates

* Alea leaves Linn with Snake

* wisesnake 's eyes flick up to meet Linn's

* Linn isn't all that happy about being alone in the same room with a Sime. Particularly not one who is LOOKING at her in that hungry way.

* wisesnake offers a sort of smile

<wisesnake> I'm sorry, I'm not at my best today.

* Alea comes back into office with paper

* Linn thinks the smile bears a striking resemblance to a stalking cat, but her mother taught her to be polite.

<Linn> We all have bad days, I'm sure.

<Alea> here you go...here are the best dates...

* wisesnake smiles a snake's smile

* Alea looks between the two, eyeing snake strangely

* wisesnake looks down

<Alea> just let us know which will work for the school

* Alea hands a paper to Linn

* Linn takes the paper.

<Linn> Thank you so much for your help.

<Alea> anytime

* Alea Alea nods and escorts her to the lobby

* Linn is glad to leave Snake behind, and eager to leave before another Sime shows up.

<Alea> take care now. Bye

* Alea goes back to Veraik's office

<Linn> I'll be in touch. Goodbye.

* Alea waves

* Alea strolls in, not noting that Snake is still in there

* Alea sees her

* Alea 's face turns fierce

<Alea> Just what the shenned do you think you were doing?

* Alea advances on Snake

* wisesnake backs off defensively

<wisesnake> I had to get something out of the -

<Alea> your whole attitude said move and you die

<Alea> are you TRYING to scare our potential donors off

<Alea> do you WANT to fail

<Alea> are you even going to answer?

* wisesnake looks upset

* Alea gets up in Snake's face

<wisesnake> But -

<Alea> You're a Farris...a Farris...Farrises do NOT scare off potential donors

* wisesnake shields against Alea

* Alea paces across room and looks out the window, doing her best to bring her nager under control

<wisesnake> She wasn't -

<Alea> wasn't what?!

* Alea spins around to face Snake

* wisesnake finishes lamely, "she wasn't scared off."

* Alea anger deflates

<Alea> what the shen is the matter with you, hon? You're a channel. A Farris channel. I've seen you work. Espeically today with the last patient

* wisesnake grimaces

<Alea> You've got the makings to compete with the Sectuib himself

<wisesnake> that was a disaster.

* Alea nager goes flat

<Alea> well, that wasn't just your fault

<wisesnake> No kidding.

* Alea turns her back and runs a hand wearly through hair...pushing pins back in that have come loose

* Alea turns in surprise

<wisesnake> I have to have a decent Donor one of these days. Isn't Veraik ever going to get me one?

<Alea> I'm about all you're gonna get out here in this dump

<Alea> you can't get any better than a Farris.

* Alea guards field and narrows eyes at Snake

* wisesnake avoids her gaze

* Alea realizing she is the older of the two, goes over and touches Snake's shoulder

<wisesnake> Well I don't happen to think that .m hmb rm [end of sentence muttered]

* wisesnake is as tense as a wire

<Alea> look, they're not going to give you Sectuib's donor...

<wisesnake> I at least expect to have someone who can stay with me and pay attention during channeling functions.

* Alea goes behind snake and lays hands on shoulders...tries to sooth her as with her nager as well

<Alea> you're right

* Alea sighs

<Alea> It's been too long since I worked with a channel that even NOTICED my distractions

<wisesnake> And all you have been doing for two days is running around with Veraik. How do you think that makes me feel?

<Alea> do you know what it's like, to know more than your channel?

* Alea backs off slightly

<Alea> If you would accept my help, I'd gladly give it[said softly]

* wisesnake 's expression turns dangerous

<wisesnake> For five minutes. Then you'd be flying off in another direction.

<Alea> Veraik is good...getting better...but I would love to work with someone who is really sensitive again

* Alea accepts snake's anger...goes back over and rubs shoulders

<Alea> you're a mess...just rest a minute

<Alea> as a matter of fact, we're both a mess...two screwed up farrises

<wisesnake> You drive me crazy, do you know that? I couldn't even concentrate today, with you running back and forth across the room, and talking to people, and all.

* Alea chuckles

* wisesnake rubs her eyes with tentacles

<Alea> like I said, you could compete with Sectuib Farris

<Alea> But, if you don't let me know, I can't do anything to change it.

<wisesnake> You have no idea what you're talking about.

* wisesnake shakes off Alea's hands

<wisesnake> Just -

<Alea> And I can guarantee you that from now on...I'll be more careful around you

* Alea backs carefully away

<wisesnake> Your guarantee is worth about zero with me right now.

* wisesnake shakes her head

<Alea> That's fine.

<Alea> I can accept that.

<wisesnake> I'm going to go deal with Tarsh.

<Alea> I imagine you feel about like I do after the way you treated Linn

<Alea> but think about this

<Alea> we're going to be working together awhile

<Alea> we're going to be having transfer together

<Alea> we have to work out these problems

* wisesnake 's face shows denial

* Alea 's field is open and honest, allowing Snake to zlin the truth

<wisesnake> You're kidding yourself.

* wisesnake is disgusted

<Alea> no, you're kidding yourself

* Alea goes over and sits down at Veraiks desk to look at papers

* wisesnake leaves the office

* Alea drops her head and allows her despair to show

* Alea knows snake is right, but knows snake can't see her problems either

* wisesnake steps outside for a breath of fresh air

* Alea wishes she was back home.

<wisesnake> What I wouldn't give for a hard working, loyal, stable Donor who I could always count on.

* Alea hates this place...hates the field conditions again

* wisesnake sighs

<wisesnake> Well, no use in putting it off any longer. Tarsh is probably climbing the walls in there.

* Alea not enough Donors here. Wish we had at least one more...

* wisesnake re-enters the Center

* Alea thinks it might take some of the pressure of...instead of constantly being pulled between Veraik and Snake

* wisesnake stops to get a drink of cold water

* Alea drops head into hands and then to desk

* wisesnake checks her look in the mirror... ugh

<wisesnake> Okay, go to it.

* wisesnake goes to the deferment suite and lets herself in cautiously.

* Tarsh is lying limp on the lounge. He is breathing rapidly but shallowly.

* Tarsh looks up with sunken bloodshot eyes.

Ronaplin is dribbling off his wrists.

* wisesnake projects support and promise

* wisesnake approaches Tarsh

<Tarsh> ~~hard need (for a Rensime) but minimal intil~~

* Tarsh zlins

<wisesnake> Tarsh, I'm here for you.

<Tarsh> Why bother. Just prolonging the agony.

<wisesnake> That's your need talking. You'll feel so much better afterward.

<wisesnake> ~~Gen~~

<Tarsh> ~~interest, but forced back down~~ No, you're not.

<Tarsh> Only for a little while.

<wisesnake> ~~~gen~~~

* Tarsh drifts toward hyper. ~~intil stirs~~

<wisesnake> Tarsh, you know you want it. Why deny yourself the pleasure?

* wisesnake holds out hands in offering

* wisesnake envelops Tarsh's field in her own, whirling Gen-field

* Tarsh looks at snakes's arms.

<wisesnake> [tentacles retracted]

* Tarsh forces his eyes closed and goes hyper.

* wisesnake 's selyn shines like a sun's center

<wisesnake> ~~~ take me Gen take me ~~~

<Tarsh> Handling tentacles twitch and laterals peek out.

<wisesnake> ~~~ desire to give ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~rising intil~~

* wisesnake eases closer, touches Tarsh's wrists with her fingertips

<wisesnake> ~~~ painful longing ~~~

* Tarsh tentacles lash out and grab fingers.

<wisesnake> ~~~gen surprise~~~gen pleasure~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ take me~~

* Tarsh 's tentacles shimmy up over wisesnakes's hands and wrists.

* Tarsh 's lips part

* wisesnake is open in offering

* Tarsh pulls (not clear if it is himself up or wisesnake down).

<wisesnake> ~~~take~~~~longing~~~offering~~~

* Tarsh 's hands close around wisesnake's wrists with numbing pressure.

<wisesnake> [Tarsh is probably the taller]

* wisesnake trembles

<wisesnake> ~~~please~~~

<Tarsh> handling tentacles swarm over snake's arms.

<wisesnake> ~~~ please yes~~~~

<Tarsh> laterals slide out slowly and caress skin, unable to find the right contact.

* wisesnake 's field guides Tarsh gently [but inescapably] hyperconscious

* wisesnake 's laterals emerge to meet Tarsh's

* Tarsh zlins a fabulous Gen.

<wisesnake> ~~~ Gen need~~~~ plaintive

<wisesnake> ~~powerful~~

<wisesnake> ~~<urgent>~~

* Tarsh 's laterals spin around wisesnake's.

<Tarsh> ~~ahhh there it is~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ yes! ~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ Gen begging for release ~~

<wisesnake> ~~take me~~

* Tarsh pulls his arms back, taking this short Gen's arms with them, and the head and body after them.

<wisesnake> ~~gen eager~~

<wisesnake> ~~take me~~

<Tarsh> ~~raging intil~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ I want to please you~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ need you ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ take me ~~~

* Tarsh thrusts his head down and forward, lips tightly closed.

* wisesnake offers a mouth contact

* Tarsh lunges for the mouth contact, punching lips against lips.

<wisesnake> ~~~ jOY!!!!? ~~~

* Tarsh pulls a steep gradient at his laterals.

<wisesnake> ~~ release at last ~~

<Tarsh> ~~ sucking selyn void ~~

* wisesnake releases a torrential flood of selyn to Tarsh

<Tarsh> ~~Reveling in selyn flow~~

* Tarsh pulls harder.

* wisesnake gives harder

<Tarsh> the selyn vanishes into Tarsh's nerves.

<Tarsh> ~~demand for more~~

* wisesnake gives harder

* Tarsh 's field rises rapidly except in his arms as he pulls it away faster than it comes in.

<wisesnake> ~~~ gen experiences a transcendental, soaring bliss ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~~ sime experiences a transcendental, soaring bliss ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ this is the one ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ the perfect ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~where Was this Gen~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ waiting for You ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ unbounded joy ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~Waiting so long~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ complete in your service ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~field gradient at laterals slopes off as selyn in Tarsh approaches a limit~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ selyn flow slows as the Gen's capacity is plumbed ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ deepest fulfillment ~~~

<Tarsh> ~~ relaxes as need is banished for what seems like forever ~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ Gen's selyn production matched perfectly to Sime's consumption ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ promise that this will always be yours ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~~ every month ~~~

<wisesnake> ~~ forever ~~

<Tarsh> ~~ uncannily level field ~~

* Tarsh realaxes completely. ~~ gradient goes to neutral ~~

* wisesnake waits for Tarsh to make the first move

* Tarsh gently breaks lip contact and lets arms move forward.

<Tarsh> ~~ laterals slide back ~~

* wisesnake withdraws laterals cautiously

* Tarsh loosens grip on wrists and arms.

* wisesnake pulls away, withdrawing physically without withdrawing nagerically.

* Tarsh luxuriates in the field as he slides back down onto the couch.

* wisesnake hopes Tarsh's wife/girlfriend/etc. is ready to Rhumba tonight

* Tarsh drifts into duoconciousness with eyes still closed.

* wisesnake watches over him

* Tarsh opens his eyes.

* wisesnake braces herself

<Tarsh> eyes dart around, looking for the Gen.

* wisesnake backs hastily away from the couch

* Tarsh locks his eyes on Snake. "YOU!"

* wisesnake bolts for the door

* Tarsh stands up. "YOU!"

<wisesnake> [disoriented by still being mid-recovery, Snake fumbles with the lock]

<Tarsh> "you!"

<Tarsh> "you."

<Tarsh> 'you'

* wisesnake manages to get the lock turned and drags the door open

* Tarsh folds up onto the couch.

* wisesnake thinks it must weigh a thousand pounds

* wisesnake leans against the door

* wisesnake looks back at Tarsh

* Tarsh pulls himself to his feet, hypo.

* wisesnake watches him

<Tarsh> <stiffly> "Thank you Hajene. That was ... wonderful" ~~sincere ambivalance~~

* wisesnake 's expression changes gradually to incredulity

<Tarsh> You are the best channel who has ever served me. <bows>

* wisesnake stares at Tarsh

<wisesnake> uh... thanks

<Tarsh> Don't forget to fill out your paperwork. [grin] ~~forced humor~~

* wisesnake feels like the lowest scum on earth

<wisesnake> uh... yeah.

<Tarsh> Thank you again. Now, if you'll excuse me...

* Tarsh moves to the door an steps into the corridor.

* wisesnake makes her way back to the transfer lounge and sits down heavily

* Tarsh heads down to the shower room.

* Alea gets up from office...still feeling down and heads out to the gardens

* Alea almost runs over Tarsh in her occupation

<Alea> Tarsh!

* Alea forces a genuine smile

* wisesnake huddles on the bench and tries to gather her resources

* Tarsh smiles back. HeLLO Alea. Good to see you.

* Alea studies him...he looks good but a little--odd

<Alea> I was just going to the garden. Join me? It's time for afternoon tea

* Tarsh studies her.

* Alea smiles sincerely

<Tarsh> Join You? For tea?

<Tarsh> Yes, I'd like to.

<Alea> great!

* Alea slips her arm through his and guides him to the gardens

* Alea motions to the wrought iron bench with the small table in front of it

* Tarsh tries to unobtrusively smooth his hair with the tentacles on the other arm.

* Alea has small cookies and tea sitting there waiting

* Alea pours tea and passes some to Tarsh

* Alea takes a cup for herself

<Alea> I love it out here, this time of year, don't you?

* Alea looks at the autumn leaves and the hedges filled with trumpeter vines

* Tarsh gulps his tea and then looks shamefaced.

* Tarsh looks around at the garden for quite a long time.

* Alea Alea sits the tea down and smiles at Tarsh.

<Alea> If you don't want tea, perhaps we can walk through the gardens?

<Tarsh> Yes. They are lovely. I haven't really Seen them in weeks.

<Alea> The smells are wonderful too...so many sights sounds, images to experience

* wisesnake stands up carefully, walks in a very dignified fashion through the hallway until she gets to her room

<Alea> would you like to walk[grinning impishly]it didn't look like you wanted that tea very much

<Tarsh> No. Not tea.

* Tarsh gets up.

* Alea stands too

* Alea reaches out to take his hand, staring up at Tarsh quizzically

<Tarsh> It was good tea, but I wasn't drinking it properly.

* Alea shrugs

<Alea> no matter

<Tarsh> After I can get too greedy.

<Alea> nah.

<Alea> It's only natural to want to experience everything that need has kept you from experiencing

* wisesnake curls up on her bed

<Alea> the sights, the smells the tastes

<Tarsh> yes, they are so Vivid now.

* Tarsh walks toward the flower bed.

* Alea strolls along, enjoying the sweet companionship after her disaster with Snake

* wisesnake gets up, feels around in bed removing all lumpy objects and throwing them on the floor

* wisesnake lays down

* Alea thinks it feels really good just to enjoy something for a change, with no responsibilities

* Alea Alea touches one of Tarsh's tentacles gently running her fingers over it

* Tarsh feels good out in the crisp autumn air. He breathes deeply

<Alea> you know, I had once thought I'd be Sime...[sighs]

<Alea> that's why I became a Donor, other than being a Farris...the desire to be around Simes

<Tarsh> the tentacles curls up at alea's touch.

<Tarsh> You lucked out then.

* Alea surprised, looks up at Tarsh

<Alea> oh, no! no...never.

<Alea> you can do so many things.

<Alea> please...

* Alea takes his hand and looks up into his eyes

<Tarsh> Except what we want to.

* wisesnake gets up, opens windows, lies down again

<Alea> what do you want to be? Tell me[nager entreats]

* Tarsh squeezes her hand but looks away.

* Alea pulls Tarsh's hand, encouraging him to walk with her down the paths

<Tarsh> I don't know. It's not like I have a choice.

<Alea> of course you do

* Tarsh follows along, turning this way and that to look at the dying leaves.

<Tarsh> I'm a Rensime. I have to work to pay my taxes. Papershuffling is all I'm good at.

* Alea looks up truly surprised

<Tarsh> Assuming I am good at that.

<Alea> no no no Tarsh

* Alea shakes her head

<Alea> you are missing one of the most important things.

* Alea reaches out, stops walking and takes Tarsh's hand

* Alea entertwins her fingers with his

* Alea then, with her other hand snags one of his tentacles

<Alea> look at this, Tarsh

* Tarsh again grips but looks away.

<Alea> look at it.

* Tarsh looks down at her hands

<Alea> Sime and Gen...hunter and victim, except that you've chosen a different way

<Alea> you've chosen to let people live

<Tarsh> 'Chosen'?

<Alea> yes, chosen...waht's stopping you from going out and finding a Gen and killing it

<Tarsh> I was willling to make an exception the other day.

* Alea confused

<Alea> are you talking about that Lorsh that you thought about murdering...

<Tarsh> Yes.

<Alea> hey, if it'd been up to me, I'd been at your side

<Alea> oh, I would have loved to get ahold of him..

<Tarsh> I couldn't choose to be that way.

<Alea> just like him try his tricks on me

<Alea> I don't understand? what way?

<Tarsh> The way he is. Using Gens.

<Alea> exactly

<Alea> so, you DO have a choice

<Tarsh> Not really. I'm not wired that way.

* Alea cocks head toward path, wanting to know if he'd like to continue walking

* Tarsh walks on.

<Alea> Well, considering I'm holding your hand, I'm glad you told me that

* Alea smiles

* Tarsh smiles back.

* Alea happy that he is smiling. Squeezes his arm against her side

* Alea stops at gazebo to sit down

* Tarsh sits down and turns slightly towards her.

<Alea> looks up at Tarsh in query

* wisesnake thinks of a possible hiding place where some of those Farris painkillers might be hiding out

<Tarsh> I have to be so careful sometimes, that I don't

<Tarsh> I know I shouldn't go to those places, but...

* Alea fears he is getting worked up again so she turns and leans back against his shoulder

<Alea> relax Tarsh

* wisesnake crawls out of bed, notices she is still dressed, how convenient

<Alea> just enjoy the peace

* Tarsh slides his other arm across her stomach to grasp hands around her.

* Alea closes eyes and breathes in the sweet smell of the autumn flowers

<Tarsh> [overlaid with the sour smell of a sime who has cleaned up after transfer]

* Tarsh breathes in the sweet smell of Alea.

* Alea relaxes and rests her hands on his, intertwining fingers and tentacles

* wisesnake scares off some of the more timid members of the staff as she stalks toward the front of the building

* Tarsh squeezes against her side gently.

* Alea moves around to where she fits better against him

* Tarsh twists to optimize the fit.

* Alea Alea allows her head to find his shoulder and nuzzles her lips against his neck

* Tarsh lays his cheek on the top of Alea's head.

* Tarsh stiffens slightly.

* Alea slips her hand up to his chest. and just relaxes against him

* Alea feels him tense and lifts head.

<Alea> what is it?

<Tarsh> I'm not sure this is wise.

<Alea> what?

* wisesnake arrives in the front lobby looking and feeling like death warmed over

<Alea> why?

* Alea runs fingers up Tarsh's cheset to touch his cheek

<Tarsh> I I'm I've seen a lot of problems in SCs come from workers ...

* wisesnake pulls Tarsh's file and makes notations on the transfer

* Alea tries not to let Tarsh see how much she needs this

<Alea> yes, go on.

<Tarsh> When someone takes advantage of ...

* Tarsh shivers at Alea's touch.

<Tarsh> If ... They ...

* wisesnake replaces Tarsh's file

* Alea thinks oh god, he's going to reject me

* Alea runs hand down his arm, stroking his sheaths gently, one at a time

<Veraik> [walks in garden]

* Veraik grabs Tarsh and tosses him away from Alea.

* Alea leans up and touches her lips to Tarshes

* Alea shock

* wisesnake looks up from the laborious process of logging her use of Tarsh's file.

<Veraik> She's mine!!!! MINE!!!! MINE!!!! MINE!!!!

<wisesnake> I could swear I just zlinned Veraik pass through here

* Tarsh curls up in a ball and snaps to land on his feet.

* Alea backs up in acute embarrasment

<Veraik> Don't you ever touch her again!

<wisesnake> But he couldn't have been here any longer than, a, a millisecond.

* Alea looks at Tarsh in acute misery, her nager screaming apologizes

* Veraik barely holds back a nageric blast.

* Alea moves past Veraik toward Tarsh

* Tarsh crouches with his arms out, tentacles weaving.

<Alea> Tarsh...I...I[red with embarrasment]

* Veraik zlins Tarsh and quickly adjust field but only enough to make the nager livable.

<Alea> stop, Veraik

<Alea> you have no right to interfere with a post assignment

* Tarsh tears his eyes away from glaring at Veriak to look at Alea.

* Veraik stops at the sound of Alea's voice.

* Alea backs away slightly when both turn toward her

<Veraik> And who assigned you.... I'm the Controller at this Center.

<Alea> you weren't here

<wisesnake> Aha.

<Alea> I needed him and he needed...someone

* wisesnake stands up, having retrieved a lost bottle that had rolled behind a couch during the Police Inspection

* Alea and she is going to go crazy...one minute of happiness...ruined because of this

* wisesnake pockets bottle, cruises toward rear of building again

* Tarsh surpresses his reflex to start quoting regs.

* Alea tries to hide the humilation by standing taller, though she can't meet either one's eyes

* wisesnake notices ambient coming from garden through back door which somebody left hanging open

<wisesnake> nasty

* Veraik goes to Alea.....you were assigned to me for post. You can't have two post assignments at once.

* Tarsh straightens up and retracts his handling tentacles.

* Alea thinks but I don't want you

<Veraik> I had to go to town to handle the police and this is what happens.!!

* wisesnake walks out into the garden and toward  the argument

<Tarsh> <freezing> <to veriak> I thought owning gens went out with Unity. ~~sarcasm~~

* Alea is torn..as USUSAL

* wisesnake overhears the line about handling the police

* Alea doesn't want to stay there...but is stuck trying to defend tarsh and asnwer to Veraik

* wisesnake stops

* Tarsh is hiding behind procedure, as usual.

* Alea is so sick of being torn...

<Veraik> I don't own her but she is assigned to me and YOU will NOT interfere!

* Alea resentment

* Tarsh curls his lip.

<Tarsh> ~~anger~~

* wisesnake sits down on a park bench

* wisesnake looks at a garden gnome

* Alea crushing grief over another situation that she has caused

<wisesnake> [to Gnome] I thought I was handling the police.

<Tarsh> Well. I'm glad you aren't abusing your position for personal gain.

* Veraik takes Alea and tries to get her to go inside.

<wisesnake> [to Gnome] But somehow I think now isn't the time to bring it up.

* Alea resists

<Alea> please Veraik

<Alea> just let go

<Tarsh> I don't thinks she wants to go with you Veriak.

* wisesnake opens bottle of pills, takes a few

* Alea looks in worry at Tarsh

<Alea> it's all right, really

<Veraik> Snake...I had to sign a couple of papers at the station. They called me or.....[looks at Tarsh] did they?

* Alea glares at Veraik and mutters under breath "I am not going with you"

* Veraik stops. Is that true. You don't want me?

* Tarsh looks at her, zlinning for truth. "Is It?"

<Alea> what?

* Alea looks back and forth between the two, not knowing what is going on

* Veraik lets go. Fine.

<Tarsh> "I wouldn't know. I've been on deferment for the last two days."

<wisesnake> Yum [puts pill bottle back in pocket]

* Alea glares at Veraik

<Alea> "no. Please, just drop it

* Veraik cringes at Alea's angry attention.

<wisesnake> [to garden gnome] The moral of this story is, of course, never try to give anybody a really really good transfer.

<Alea> please, Veraik

* Alea unable to take any more...and embarrassed beyond anything, jerks away from veraik and runs inside

* Tarsh tries to dicern who alea wants to drop what.

<Tarsh> Well.

* Veraik sighs....Women!

* Alea goes into transfer room 2 and collapses on couch

<Tarsh> I believe Tecton employment regulations give me 3 days off after transfer.

<Tarsh> If you will excuse me, Hajene.

* wisesnake 's blood shot eyes meander over to a  stone deer some distance away.

<Veraik> Fine.....take....WE could BOTH use it.

* Tarsh turns and walks off.

<wisesnake> [looking into stone eyes] I wonder when they will figure out this is all my fault?

<wisesnake> What?

* Alea wondering if there really is anything such as choices

* wisesnake looks back at Gnome

<wisesnake> [to Gnome] Do you really think they'll never figure it out?

<wisesnake> [to Gnome] Well that's good.

* Alea thinks for one moment she had glimpsed a possible freedom from the burdens

* Tarsh sees wisesnake and stops in front of her. "I'd like to thank you again Hajene. And apologize for how I'm crotting up the results."

* wisesnake stares at Tarsh with an unreadable expression

* Tarsh walks on into the building towards the lobby.

* Alea tries to reason out what she is going to do...once again stuck in the position of trying to take care of two channels since we are Donor short

* Alea thinks as well as the other reason she is here

* Alea sighs

* Veraik is still steaming. Tentacles are flicking in and out in frustration.

* Alea thinks it was a bunch of crap she fed to Tarsh..who really does have choices

* Tarsh sees Alea through the open door. He stops.

* wisesnake looks at Veraik

* Alea angry, stupid, stupid stupid...now there will be problems at the SC

<Tarsh> "Alea. I'm sorry."

* Alea sits up quickly, turns, sees Tarsh

* Veraik looks back at Snake. I've lost her.

* Alea smiles.

<Alea> no, it's not your fault

* Tarsh is looking hangdog.

<Alea> I just didn't realize that Veraik really cared

<Alea> I'm only an assignment, believe me

* Veraik flicks tentacles way up tentacle sheaths and storms to his office.

<Alea> I just wish things...oh, Tarsh

* Alea gets up and goes over to him

<Alea> you've had it so rough these past months...I'm sorry I messed this up too

* Tarsh flicks a glance down the hall and ducks inside

* Alea looks down hall, closes door and locks it

<Alea> go ahead, say whatever you want to say

* Tarsh flattens himself against the wall and try to damp his field.

* Alea is certain she is about to be blasted for messing up his transfer

<Tarsh> My transfer problems are my own fault.

* Alea goes back over to couch and sits down

<Alea> yeah, but that out there certainly wasn't your fault

<Alea> There's plenty of people here that could have helped you...I didn't think

<Tarsh> And Veriak was the one who messed up the last bit, If I recall correctly.

<Alea> when I hauled you out to the garden

<Tarsh> Doesn't mean they would. Or that they would want to.

* Alea blushes

<Alea> of course they would

<Tarsh> Oh yeah, like I was screaming for help.

* Alea embarrased because she evidently insulted him

* Tarsh zlins.

<Alea> look, I am really really sorry about the mess...making your post go so sour

<Tarsh> Why are you embarassed? *You* haven't offended me.

* Alea looks up surprised

<Alea> but -I- was the one who dragged you out there, and it was for purely selfish reasons

* Tarsh laughs.

* Alea doesn't understand laugh

<Tarsh> And here I was afraid I was taking advantage of You!

<Alea> but it was...I feel like I am being torn in two...

<Alea> advantage of me?

* Alea actually giggles

<Alea> I don't think so...I am going crazy in this place...I try to please one channel and the other one gets made at me

* Tarsh laughs harder.

<Alea> I wanted to escape!

* Alea grins and shakes head in relief

* Alea starts laughing again

<Alea> I must admit, it was rather funny, the look on Veraik's face and yours when ...

<Tarsh> I've seen a lot of channels. They always have their tentacles in a knot about one thing or another.

* Alea shakes head

<Alea> yeah, but I don't like being caught in the middle

<Alea> and add to that the fact that I'm here...[looks up in shocked surprise] to, um...

<Tarsh> <thoughtful> No, i don't suppose you would...

<Alea> well, it just is a mess

<Alea> sit down...you make me nervous towering over me

<Tarsh> To serve the channels for the greater glory of the almighty Tecton?

* Alea looks too sober

<Alea> yeah

* Alea only not the ones you think

* Tarsh sits down on the floor next to her.

<Alea> I really didn't mean to get you caught in the middle

* Tarsh looks at her quizically.

<Alea> hey, I know what it feels like[shrugs]

<Alea> how about I just stop apologizing?

<Tarsh> Us Tecton bureaucrats are always in the middle.

<Alea> I suppose so

* Alea lays back on couch and covers eyes with arm

<Alea> so, what are your plans now

<Tarsh> Sounds good to me. How about I stop being such a tight-lateral?

* Veraik sits behind desk. Wipes tentacles across face and thinks how badly he blew THAT one.

* Alea chuckles

<Alea> agreed

<Tarsh> I didn't have any. Need doesn't encourage long term planning.

* Alea laughs again

<Tarsh> And my recents posts were nothing to write home about.

<Alea> neither does being a Donor

<Tarsh> Can't think beyond the next transfer card?

<Alea> yeah...hey...it's just as bad on a Donor...you know what it's like to give a transfer and have the recepient get a bad one

<Alea> of course you don't

<Alea> take my word for it...it's sour

<Tarsh> Not really, No.

* Tarsh scoots over to the floor near the head end of the couch.

* Veraik walks into garden and sees Wise.

* Tarsh leans up against the couch end.

* wisesnake is sitting very still on a park bench looking down at the ground

<Alea> I just wish your...[pauses thinking she promised not to apologize again]

* Alea sighs

<Veraik> I think you should come to my office. There is someone who would like to talk to you.

<Alea> I have no desire to go back out there.

* wisesnake pauses

* Tarsh picks up Alea's hand and massages it.

* Alea blinks up at Tarsh, surprised to see he is so close

<Veraik> Come on, Snake. [zlins] I think you've seen enough excitement today.

* wisesnake gets up

<wisesnake> [follows Veraik]

* Alea and still rather surprised he hasn't strangled her

* wisesnake follows veraik

<Alea> that feels good.

* Alea feels tension draining out of her

* Veraik thinks about helping Snake with her elbow but decides that it's not a good idea.

* Tarsh gently kneads Alea's forearm, working the knots out of the muscles.

* Alea hesitates only a moment before relaxing, closing her eyes and just enjoying it

* wisesnake thinks about Tarsh's reaction after the transfer she gave him

* Veraik allows Snake to enter the office ahead of himself.

* Tarsh slide the tension down the arm and out the fingers.

* wisesnake enters Veraik's office

* Alea feels tension leave

<Tramila> Hello, Wise. You're zlinning poorly.

* Alea turns on her side and stares at Tarsh

* Tarsh switchs to Alea's other arm.

<Alea> if you have other plans, you really don't have to stay here and try to cheer me up

* Tramila looks up at Wise and Veraik.

* wisesnake looks at Tramila and mood plunges into even further depression

* Alea almost groans in pleasure as muscles relax in arm

* Tarsh 's face drops

<Alea> oh...what'd I say...I'm so sorry

* Alea darn...wasn't going to apologize again...winces

* wisesnake looks at the floor

<Tarsh> Tsk, Tsk, You said no more.

<Alea> you are right.

* Alea smiles instead of apologizing

* Tramila goes to Wise and sooths the ambient. "Veraik....why haven't you been taking better care of her."

* Alea reaches out and strokes a tentacle, letting Tarsh see her fascination

* Tramila leads Wise to the Transfer couch in Veriak's office.

* Tarsh curls the tentacle around her hand, stroking in return.

<Alea> they really are something special, not to despise

* wisesnake follows Tramila, silently

<Tarsh> They do have their uses, yes. <smiles>

<Tramila> Wise zlins of too many drugs and a migrane. "Didn't you even zlin it for yourself?"

* Alea runs her fingers up the sheaths and then slowly back down, tracing the curves

* Alea raises an eyebrow at Tarshes words

<Alea> I'm sure they do

<Veraik> I...I....I have no excuse Tramila.

* Tarsh 's shoulders relax as he smiles.

* Alea runs her fingers up other arm, now done with her pity party and thinking of him

* Alea hopes her actions are appreciated

* wisesnake thinks that she wishes she could cut the look on Tarsh's face after their transfer out of her life and paste it into Tramila's. Once per month, if possible

* Alea not tolerated

<Veraik> You know what happened earlier. You zlinned it in my systems. [gets determined nager] It won't happen again.

* Tarsh closes his eyes and smile broadly.

* Alea smiles in return and runs a finger gently across his jaw

* Tarsh puts a hand on her shoulder and caresses her neck.

* Alea thinks how nice and peaceful it is again

<Tramila> It had better not. Bring me the Farris kit before Wise passes out.

* Tarsh playfully snaps at her finger.

* Alea grins, runs it over his chin and then down to his neck

* Tarsh stretches his neck languidly under her finger.

<Veraik> It's not here. I'll have to go to Snake's room to get it. That's probably where it is at.

* Alea begins to massage it, working out the kinks

* Tarsh lets his head flop to one side, letting her work. While he strokes her neck in turn.

* Alea allows her fingers to slip inside Tarsh's collar as she works

* Alea urges Tarsh closer, her own feelings obvious in her nager

* Tarsh moves his hand to the back of her neck and leans forward.

* Alea sighs in anticipation and meets his lips

* Tarsh gently puts his mouth over hers.

* Tramila presents tentacles in a request for transfer position. "Trust me, Wise. You'll feel better if you let me help you."

* wisesnake looks at Tramila

<Tarsh> Other hand rests on Alea's side

* Alea moves her other hand to his shoulder to balance herself before she falls flat on her face

* wisesnake looks at the floor

* Alea moves forward and melts into his chest

<Tramila> Please Wise...I promise..you'll feel better.

* Tarsh wraps his arms around Alea.

<wisesnake> I can't stop you from doing whatever you want.

* Alea opens her lips to nibble at Tarsh's lower lip

* Tarsh hold Alea with one arm across her shoulder blades and the other around her waist.

<Tramila> I told you the last time we were together that I would never do what you didn't want me to do. So it is up to you whether you decide to take my help or not.

* Alea slips her arms up Tarsh's chest and slips the buttons loose, enjoying the feel under her hands as she does

* Veraik goes down the hall but stops when he hears the activity on the other side of the door.

* Tarsh kisses Alea more ardently.

* Veraik nager flattens at the thought of what Alea is doing then continues on his way to get medicine.

See note 5

<wisesnake> Look,

<wisesnake> I

<wisesnake> I just don't care

<wisesnake> right now.

<Veraik> [enters Snake's room and begins his search.]

<Tramila> Then will you accept my offer. [offers tentacles again]

* Veraik looks in a drawer. No medicine. What is this? [holds letter addessed to himself, pockets letter, continues search]

<wisesnake> [whispered] why don't you just help me or leave me alone.

* Veraik looks in another drawer. [finds a stash of money...all Out T] [grows concerned]

* Tramila entwines tentacles and leans in for the 5th contact point.

* Tramila zlins Wise's choatic systems, unblocks pathways which have been creating migranes, and helps the drugs she has been taking to dissipate.

* Tramila then zlins her secondary system and straightens it out so Wise can work more efficiently.

* Veraik looks under the bed and finds the missing, "On Donors and Donations" books.

* Tramila releases Wise after a few "Other" adjustments.

<Tramila> There...How do you feel how?

* Veraik finally finds the Farris Medicine kit in the shower.

* wisesnake seems to be stuck in an expression of "huh??"

* Tramila zlins Wise... You zlin better now. How is your headache?

<wisesnake> gone

* Tramila brushes Wise's hair from her face. "I'm so glad."

* wisesnake hates Tramila and has ever since the day of her changeover

<wisesnake> [it is a cold hatred; unforgiving]

* Tramila stiffens with the hateful nager Wise is projecting.

* wisesnake veils the hate again

* Tramila removes tentacle and moves away....well....yes...I wonder what happened to Veraik.

* wisesnake bows head; tries to figure out what Tramila did to her

* Veraik carries the medicine kit back to his office, thinking of a good time to go back to Snake's room for a better look.

* Veraik enters the office. Tramila...I finally found the kit. Sorry, it took so long.

* Alea moans, loudly, her breath becoming shallow

* Tarsh zlins Alea passion redoubling his own.

* wisesnake cannot figure out what Tramila did to her

* wisesnake wishes she had never heard of the Sime Center

* Veraik goes to make trin.

* wisesnake can't decide whether she feels better or worse

* Tramila takes medicine box. "You have all the right Farris medicines and in order, just like I taught you. I'm very proud of you Wise.

<wisesnake> Sure.

<wisesnake> Yeah.

* Tramila zlins Wise. Would you like a dose of fosebine?

<wisesnake> uh,

<wisesnake> Look, I,

<wisesnake> fine.

<wisesnake> yes.

* Tramila mixes a dose and hands it to Wise.

<wisesnake> [slug]

* Veraik hands Snake a fresh cup of tea to wash the fosebine taste away.

<wisesnake> [glug]

<wisesnake> Tramila, why are you back here?

<Tramila> I'm here to finish your training. That WAS the deal. You leave Zeor but I follow and train you during first year.

<wisesnake> Why didn't anybody tell me about this deal in advance?

* Tramila zlins Veraik. I see your post condition has returned......and.....you zlin a bit more sensitive. What happened?

<wisesnake> rhetorical question, of course.

<Tramila> You were told but chose not to listen.

<wisesnake> laughs incredulously

<wisesnake> Oh, is that how it is.

<wisesnake> Okay.

* wisesnake shakes head

* Veraik feels uncomfortable with Tramila's zlinning and her question.

<wisesnake> What happened to Veraik? I can answer that. I've given both his last two transfers.

* wisesnake immediately wishes she hadn't volunteered any information

<wisesnake> Look. You two can enjoy each other's company. I'm going to bed.

* wisesnake leaves the office without thanking Tramila

* Tarsh whispers "the janitor is gonna be making his rounds soon. should we shock him?"

* Alea blinks, realizing they are still on the floor

<Alea> I think we've had enough excitement for one day

<Tarsh> I can see that. <grins>

<Alea> how about you come back to my room and we can...talk about that excitement some more

<wisesnake> Look, as far as I'm concerned, what you call a "Deal" consisted of me being thrown out of Zeor and later on when I was finally starting to feel good about myself again you had to come along and start harassing me.

<Tarsh> We'd better get back. Or people will talk. [wide grin]

* Alea groans

<Alea> you are right, of course.

* Tarsh lifts alea up onto the couch and kisses her quickly.

* Tramila glances at Veraik then at Wise. You should be proud of the progress you've made with Veraik. I'm sure he appreciates it as well.

<Tarsh> Want some trin?

* Alea sits up and reaches for her clothes

<wisesnake> You are so blind to what has been going on here.

* Tarsh hand them to her.

* Alea smiles up at Tarsh, admiring him as he dresses

<Tramila> I think the Sectuib explained that. He was trying to protect you again a spy.

* Alea slips on her top and shimmies back into her panties

* Tarsh shows off as he covers up.

<Tramila> [sits down] Then why don't you tell me.

* Alea stands back up and pulls on skirt

* Veraik signals. I am due in the collectorium. Use my office as long as you like.

* Tarsh admires the view.

* Alea quickly gathers pins for hair and pushes them back in her hair

* Veraik goes to front lobby for a donor shift.

* Alea preens, winking before giggling

<Alea> this is awful, really, we could have been caught

* Tarsh goes to the sink and brings her a damp towelette.

<Alea> you don't know Snake and locks

* Alea smiles her thanks

<Tarsh> Uh, We Were caught once.

* wisesnake shakes her head. "It isn't progress."

<Alea> yeah...exactly

* Tarsh grins like an idiot.

* Alea cleans up, then slips her shoes on

<wisesnake> It's a bunch of struggling to get by day to day and slowly falling further into failure.

* Tarsh check the mirror to comb his hair and looks at the floor to see if it needs wiping.

* Tarsh goes to the door and tries to zlin but can't zlin though.

<wisesnake> I can't even get a decent Donor.

<Tramila> [looking around] It doesn't look like failure considering the Center has barely had time to recover from the fire.

* Alea finishes straighting her appearance

* Alea follows Tarsh, laying her hand gently against his back as she pauses by him

<wisesnake> I'm not talking about for transfer, I mean even for normal everyday support.

* Tarsh unlocks the door and cracks it open enough to zlin if the corridor is empty.

<Tramila> And I could get you a better Donor. I'll get to work on it as soon as we finish our talk.

<wisesnake> And every day I'm here what I built in the months before is eroded further.

<Alea> how does it zlin?

<wisesnake> A few days ago the police actually broke in here and busted up the place. Just to get my attention. They wouldn't have dreamed of that before.

<Tarsh> No one there. You go and I'll wait a few minutes.

<Alea> thanks

* Tarsh grabs Alea and kisses her firmly but quickly.

* Alea pauses to lean up and kiss Tarsh

* Alea turns and scoots out

* Alea smooths her skirt and then tries to act normal.

* Tarsh zlins as she goes, then pushes the door to.

* Alea goes down hall, to her room and slips into room

* Tarsh check the room again for anything he missed cleaning up.

* Alea relieved, and feeling more sated than she can remember, she goes right to sleep

<Tramila> I don't know what to say. I know how you pride yourself on knowing everything that happens in this town.

<wisesnake> It's not happening anymore

<wisesnake> It just isn't happening for me anymore

<wisesnake> You should see the mess I made of this guy's transfer today.

<Tramila> But you require time at the Sime Center to stretch your systems so that you don't get entran.

<wisesnake> It was just a RenSime, anybody could have done it. But I blew it big time.

<Tramila> And that time is the time you used to spend in handling the town.

<Tramila> Oh Wise. I doubt that. You have always been one of the best channels to get transfer to a renSime.

<wisesnake> You should have seen the look on his face.

* wisesnake remembers

<Tramila> Let me zlin him...perhaps I can see what was the matter. but really, I doubt that it was something that YOU did.

* Tramila zlins in concern.

<wisesnake> And he was so polite about it too.

<wisesnake> And the most awful thing about it was... I didn't realize how wrong it went. I thought it was perfect.

* Tarsh crack the door and zlins again.

<wisesnake> And then he came out of it, and he...

* Tarsh zlins nothing so he saunters up the hall to the lobby.

<wisesnake> He just looked at me, with this expression, and he said "You!"

* Tramila gets suspicious. I really want to zlin this renSime now.

* wisesnake sighs dismally

<wisesnake> Well I guess I can't stop you

* Tarsh greets the rensime on the front desk. "Hi. I just want to grab something from the desk."

<Tramila> Let's go find this renSime.

* wisesnake sighs and gets up

<wisesnake> Well last I saw he was having a huge fight with Veraik in the back yard.

* Tramila follows Wise out the door.

* Tarsh rifle through a drawer and takes out a little notebook. He sees an envelope addressed to him and picks it up curiously.

<Tramila> Yes but Veriak was with us so we'll just have to find....what was this renSime's name?

<wisesnake> Tarsh

<Tramila> [follows Wise]

<wisesnake> There. He's in the lobby. I'm not going in there.

* wisesnake hangs back

* Tarsh shrugs and sticks the envelope in his pocket.

<Tarsh> "See you Thursday. Try not to burn the place down again." [grins]

<Tramila> Fine..but please stays within hearing. I want you to listen as well as zlin what is said.

<wisesnake> ucch. Fine.

* Tramila sees and zlins Tarsh before he leaves.

* wisesnake leans against wall of hallway

<Tarsh> ~~Tarsh is in quite good shape. Appears to have had a very good transfer and postsyndrome (already?)~~

<Tramila> [Walks to renSime] I don't believe we've met.. [puffs up Farris chest to intimidate Tarsh]

* Tramila zlins

<Tramila> I understand [zlins for truth] your transfer didn't go well today?

<Tarsh> "Hello. Oh, I'm sorry Hajene Farris, may I help you?"

* wisesnake covers her eyes with a hand, contemplates slipping out the back way

<Tramila> You heard the question. [zlins deeper]

<wisesnake> Tramila still goes in for torture, of course, I don't know why I dreamed she would ever change.

<Tarsh> 'not go well'? Why would you say that? Hajene Snake gave me a better transfer than I've had in a long time. She's better than any other channels who has served me."

<Tarsh> ~~ sincere and a bit puzzled ~~

<Tramila> ohhhh...then why did you tell her differently. I zlinned how very post you are.

<Tarsh> "I'm sorry?"

<Tarsh> ~~hot blush~~ "Yes, well that shows how good the transfer was, doesn't it?"

<Tramila> It's not me you should appologize to but Wise.

<Tarsh> "apologize for what?"

* Tramila snorts. It's blazingly clear.

<Tarsh> ~~annoyance~~

* wisesnake 's hand over her eyes massages the eyes

<Tramila> Wise deserves to know that the transfer she provided you was one of the best.

<Tarsh> 'Look, no transfer is 100% perfect. At least not to you Farrises. But us ordinary rensimes do fine."

<Tarsh> "I told her so. But she is the most obsessive perfectionist I met with a beige folder." 4

* Tramila goes to hall. "Did you hear and zlin, Wise? The transfer you provided was near perfect."

<Tramila> And Look at the post he has....I'd say you outdid yourself.

* Tarsh shrugs. <to attendent> "Farrises. Go Figure."

* Tarsh walks out the front door.

* wisesnake looks unhappy

<wisesnake> Well then maybe I'm just going insane.

<Tramila> Why are you unhappy? Now you know.

<wisesnake> Yeah

<wisesnake> Look I've had a really rough day, do you mind if I get some sleep?

<Tramila> No....you just didn't have the comparison factors. That is why I should be here to train you. Then you will learn for yourself if the transfer you provided is as good as you thought you gave.

<wisesnake> When he came out of it he was angry, and when he thanked me he was ambivalent.

<Tramila> True...but you should zlin his condition not his words.

<Tramila> His condition is the only one that gives a true scale.

<wisesnake> Condition is easier to zlin than opinion, but does that make it more valid?

* Tramila zlins Wise. I think it is time for you to sleep.

* wisesnake flickers annoyance, at Tramila first ignoring her request, then pretending it was own idea

<wisesnake> Sure. Great. I'll go to sleep now.

* wisesnake slumps off to her room

<Tramila> Sleep on it and you will see.

<wisesnake> sure

<wisesnake> goodbye

* Tramila goes to her own.

<Tramila> Good night.

Notes:

1) Knowing Alea, she is undoubtedly speaking from repeated personal experience! [return]

2) During this time Lowren answered Wise Snake's original question about looking for his childhood friend who'd changed over RenSime. He said he'd heard most Simes change their names so he assumed he wouldn't be able to find his friend. [return]

3) Vit has red and purple stains all over his hands and arms from working in a vineyard. [return]

4) Yes, at this point Tarsh is one of those who didn't realize Snake is a reluctant Farris. [return]

5) You may notice a suspicious gap in the log with regards to Alea and Tarsh. Someday if Sime/Gen becomes wildly famous, the missing text may resurface as one of those "lost episodes"... until then, you'll just have to use your imagination! :-) [return]

6) Linn's last name somehow mutated from Haskall to Haskins at some later point. [return]

Go on to Episode #16: Artistry

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