Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #26: Rescue (9/25/97)
see note 1
<Tarsh> "Glad to hear it. The storage cabinets should be set for the same key, and the cabinets in the treatment and transfer rooms on another, and we'll need multiple copies for all the channels and Donors."
<Tarsh> "yes, If you would be so kind."
* locks opens up a large, battered suitcase.
* Alea relieved to hear about the key and continues to her office
<locks> Now, these little beauties should work for your medicine cabinets. Compact, lightweight keys, but nearly impossible to jimmy in any reasonable amount of time.
<locks> We can provide as many duplicate keys as you require.
* Tarsh zlins the lock.
* JonDrake begins to stir weakly in his bed upstairs.
* Alea sits down behind her desk and pulls out her paperwork
<locks> Here are the Derrin doorknob locks: simple, classic, and secure.
<Tarsh> That looks sturdy enough. No point in making it much heavier than the cabinet casing, is there?
* JonDrake , being Gen, is now sore in places he never realized he had.
<locks> This more businesslike style would be appropriate for your pubic rooms.
* JonDrake is sore in places the Tecton doesn't even recognize that he has...
* Tarsh picks one up and fiddles with it, locking, unlocking, etc.
<locks> See how smoothly the tumblers turn. No irritating coaxing required to open these.
<Tarsh> Do you know if these have been designed with Simes in mind?
* Tarsh wonders if the lock oil is Farris rated...
<locks> They're solid enough. No one's going to get through without the proper key.
<Tarsh> I like that part. The less minor annoyance the better, it sours the nager for everyone.
<Tarsh> "Oh, yes. Can the Residence wing have a master key for the controller to use in emergencies? We might need to get in during an emergency."
<locks> We can manage that.
<Tarsh> We will want some substantial deadbolts on the back door and the loading dock, for security.
<locks> For that, I'd recommend the Derrin Ultralock. It's heavy enough that no burglar's going to bother with you. See?
<Tarsh> "And do you have any locking filing cabinets?"
* locks pulls out an Ultralock and shows Tarsh.
* Tarsh picks it up and yanks hard.
<locks> I'd recommend the same small locks as for the medicine cabinets. I can key them differently, of course.
<Tarsh> "Yes, That will do. yes, key the filing cabinets seperately, please."
* locks scribbles notes on a dog-eared yellow pad.
<Tarsh> "I'll have one of my associates show you around so you can get a count and take any measurements you need."
<locks> Thank you. I look forward to doing business with you.
<Tarsh> "Send me you estimate as soon as you can. I expect we have a good business relationship."
* Tarsh calls over one of the Gen clerks to assist Locks.
<locks> I will be in touch shortly.
* wisesnake makes sure B'Cal is sleeping VERY deeply, then slinks smiling out of bed
* Tarsh smiles to himself at the thought *secure* files. Now if he could only figure out how to keep the Talent out of them...
* Alea finishes her paperwork and pulls out her sewing...deciding to make another piece of art
* wisesnake takes a shower, for the novelty factor
* wisesnake gets dressed, checks her look -- somewhere between "spoogledoogle" and "sadly drenched stoat"
<wisesnake> Very Nice. [Farris egotism]
* wisesnake slips out of the room and down the hallway
* Alea decides to curl up on her couch and take a nap
* wisesnake goes down the stairs
* Tarsh comes down the hall with a clipboard.
<wisesnake> Hello, Tarsh.
* Tarsh looks at the chart on Parnul Redan and takes some notes. Mutters when he doesn't find his Sime Center of record.
* wisesnake shrugs and continues on into the lobby
* Tarsh looks up. "Good Morning Hajene. How are you today?"
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> Well B'Cal's still asleep...
* wisesnake grins
* Tarsh comes out into the lobby. "Hajene Snake, You attended Tuib Redan, correct?"
<wisesnake> Yes.
<Tarsh> "Do you know any personal inforamtion? Where he's from, who his relatives are, etc.?"
<wisesnake> Yeah, I asked him all that stuff last night... uh...
* wisesnake has forgotten most of it
<wisesnake> He's from Hamish, in out-Territory
<Tarsh> He doesn't seem to have any identification put in the safe for him."
<wisesnake> Ah. Uh. Well you see,
<Tarsh> "Ah. Thank you." [scribbles]
* wisesnake scratches the back of her neck, trying to decide which would make her look worse, claiming B'Cal wouldn't let her fill out the forms last night, or defending B'Cal's actions
<wisesnake> I was, um, under some pressure to take a break after working on those two, and I didn't get a chance to fill out the paperwork.
<wisesnake> Give me the forms and I'll see what I can remember.
<wisesnake> Oh, and, give me JonDrake's folder while you're at it.
<Tarsh> "Oh. If you want. Thank you." [hands Snake clipboard]
<Tarsh> "certainly."
* wisesnake takes clip board and folder and goes to lobby to lounge rather untidily on a couch, next to two rather taken aback donors.
* Tarsh goes over to the filing cabinet and logs out Jon Drake's folder.
<wisesnake> humm, huh huh hum, bla bla, huh. I'll just write whatever in here... hum, dada dum...
* Tarsh comes over and opens his mouth, glances at the donors and says nothing.
* JonDrake is sleeping in his bed in the infirmary...
* wisesnake makes up the information she doesn't remember... making educated guesses
* Tarsh scribbles a note and puts it in Jon's folder.
* wisesnake puts down the Mayor of Hamish as Parnul's father since that's the only person from Hamish she knows the name of
<donor> Really! What is THAT about?
* wisesnake glances at donor
<wisesnake> .... what? [confused]
<Tarsh> [note] There has been a bit of irregularity in Tuib Drake's case. I'm not sure if Veriak every formally approved his appointment, and I don't think he has been properly pledged yet. Are you Acting controller while he is recovering? - T.
<Tarsh> "Here is that file you wanted, Hajene."
<donor> I've never seen Sime Center staff looking like a sadly drenched stoat before.
<wisesnake> Thank you.
* wisesnake laughs
* wisesnake takes folder from Tarsh. "Thank you, Tarsh."
<Tarsh> [to donor] I'm sorry, I just remebered it would be rude to talk Simelan in front of you. My apologies."
<donor> Quite all right. Do you think your channel will be available soon? We've already been waiting nearly half an hour, and we've got errends to run.
* wisesnake 's hair is becoming dry enough (of water, anyway) to do the dreaded Farris Hair Thing, quite to the detriment of her eyesight
<Tarsh> "It shouldn't be much longer. We apologize for any inconvenience."
<Tarsh> "I'll see if Hajene Jirelle is available."
* donor sits back, grumbling to the other donor.
* Tarsh goes over to chack the schedule board.
* wisesnake looks at the note Tarsh put in the folder
* wisesnake pulls a gnawed pencil out from behind her ear and scratches a note on the bottom of the note: "Yes. I think not. I think not. Not that I know of."
* wisesnake holds out the note to Tarsh. "I think this was put into this folder by mistake."
* Jirelle finishes the donation she was on and returns to the lobby for another assignment.
* wisesnake continues filling out Parnul's form, making up the rest of the information
* Tarsh bristles slightly at the apersion on his filing. "I'm sorry Hajene, I'll refile it appropriately. thank you."
<wisesnake> [to herself] huh, should I say he's an only child or give him brothers and sisters?
<Tarsh> "Hajene Jirelle! Are you ready for your next donation?"
* wisesnake pencils in 8 brothers, 6 sisters
* Jirelle smiles at Tarsh
<Jirelle> Any time!
* wisesnake adds a few childhood medical disorders so that part of the form looks less bare
* donor is becomming seriously annoyed by Snake's erratic behavior and disreputable apparence.
* Tarsh turns to the donors. "Uh, which one of you was next?"
* wisesnake beams at the two donors
* Jirelle waits for one of them to volunteer
<donor> Aren't you the one supposed to be keeping track of that? We came in together.
* Jirelle is a gentle looking channel with long dark brown hair and lots of glittery necklaces
<Tarsh> "Of course."
* Jirelle smells rather strongly of incense
* wisesnake points at the irritable one "Take that one first."
* donor gets to her feet before the other donor has a chance to object.
<donor> It's about time.
* Tarsh goes to the desk and returns. "Tuib Vemla, if you are ready?"
* Jirelle smiles at the donor. "Please come with me."
* Jirelle goes to front desk to obtain the donor's file
* Vemla follows Jirelle
* Jirelle leads Vemla to a transfer room
<Jirelle> Here we are.
* Vemla sniffs
<Tarsh> [the desk clerk hands Jirelle the file]
<Vemla> What's that smell?
* Jirelle looks pleasantly surprised
<Jirelle> Oh! It's my prayer incense. Isn't it nice? I found it at an outdoor market in Famhurst.
<Vemla> I never have cared for perfume.
<Jirelle> Oh.
* Vemla walks over to the transfer lounge and sits down.
<Vemla> Well, what are you waiting for?
<Vemla> I've got errends to run.
* Jirelle checks Vemla's file for anything she should know
* Jirelle puts the folder aside and goes to the transfer lounge
<Jirelle> Well, Vemla, we'll get your field taken down in a jiffy and you can be right on your way.
* Vemla 's file contains a warning that she is not necessarily a pleasant person.
* Jirelle smiles at Vemla and offers her hands
<Jirelle> Whenever you're ready?
* Vemla sniffs again, and extends her hands.
* Jirelle takes Vemla in transfer position
* Jirelle draws selyn
* Vemla 's nager radiates irritated impatience.
* Jirelle releases Vemla when she is done
* wisesnake fills out another form detailing the healing work she did on Parnul, as accurately as she can
<Jirelle> That's all, Vemla... you may go now.
* Jirelle gets the file folder and notes down the amount of selyn taken, and some other notes, then stands up to escort Vemla back out to the lobby.
* Vemla jumps up from the transfer lounge, grabs the voucher from Jirelle, and stampedes for the payment window to get the money for her shopping trip.
* Jirelle shakes her head, smiling
<Jirelle> Well! She will have a wonderful day shopping.
* Alea gets up and decides to go for a walk.
* Jirelle continues alone to the lobby and turns in Vemla's other paperwork
* Jirelle sees if there are any other folders in her basket
* wisesnake gets up and idles over to the front desk, hands in the paperwork on Parnul
* Alea puts up her art, locks her drawers and slips out her office door
* Tarsh takes the paperwork. Hands another donor folder to Jirelle. "when ever you are ready."
* Jirelle takes the folder, decides she feels pretty good and is ready for another one now
* Alea sees Snake
* Jirelle reads the name on the file
<wisesnake> Hi, Alea
<Alea> Hello Snake...where's your Donor?
* wisesnake laughs
<wisesnake> She's in bed [winks]
<wisesnake> I think she overslept... or something.
* Alea can't help the small smile playing about her mouth
<Alea> I see
<Jirelle> "Next... uh... Fugl... uh... Fugli..nnl.. Fuh....." [having difficulty pronouncing the donor's name]
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> It's so much easier to get... certain kinds of work done, in the mornings.
* Jirelle is really embarassed
<Alea> I'll just bet it is
<Jirelle> I'm sorry, how do you pronounce it?"
<wisesnake> I'm sure she will wake up in time for if I require her services, though.
* Alea frowns, thinking of Veraik abovestairs and a Donor with no place to go
<Alea> well, that's good
<Alea> I'm on my way for a walk
* Alea turns nods to Tarsh
* wisesnake frowns
<Alea> hello tarsh
* Tarsh smiles at Alea.
<wisesnake> It's kind of busy right now...
<wisesnake> Are you sure you won't be required here?
<Tarsh> Good morning.
<Alea> My channel is upstairs...what am I going to do?
* Alea thinks unless they want me cooking
<Fuglnari> "Foohglinari. Don't worry, no one gets it right."
* Alea turns toward the door
<Alea> I'll be down at the pond if you need me [to Snake]
* Jirelle smiles at Fuglnari. I'm sorry anyway. Would you like to step this way?
<wisesnake> Uh... sure.
<Fuglnari> "Glad to. This a busy time of day?"
<wisesnake> [figures there's no way to set a pond on fire, it's probably the best place for Alea]
<Jirelle> Well, I'm kind of new here but it sure seems busy to me.
* Alea drags out the door and down the Sime Center steps
* Jirelle leads Fuglnari to a transfer room
* Lin hurries into the Sime Center lobby, broadcasting alarm and worry.
* wisesnake looks up in alarm
<wisesnake> Lin!
* Jirelle reads Fuglnari's file to see what kind of donor he is
<Lin> Snake, you've got to help me.
* Fuglnari follow along. "I usually come in the evening after work, but they are doing maintenance this week, so..."
* wisesnake 's eyebrows shoot up
<wisesnake> What's happened?
<Fuglnari> [a very nervous GN3, who tends to stall by talking]
* Jirelle offers Fuglnari a seat on the transfer lounge
<Lin> Mirk's been missing for almost two days, now.
* Jirelle reads the information, hopes that she will be able to handle the guy
* Fuglnari goes to sit down, but then leans over to look for furniture tags.
* Jirelle takes her place on the transfer lounge, waits patiently for Fuglnari to take his seat
<Fuglnari> "Is this made in-t? I suppose it would have to be, wouldn't it?"
<Lin> I thought he had caught the cold that's going around; half my class was out today.
<Lin> But when I called his mother, she couldn't remember when he'd last been home.
* Fuglnari looks nervously at Jirelle.
* wisesnake looks around at the crowd in the lobby, then sighs and figures the others can handle it for a few minutes
<Lin> She's not coping well with losing her husband and daughter, poor woman.
<wisesnake> All right, all right, let's step outside for a few minutes.
<Fuglnari> "Uh, are you ready-like?"
* Jirelle smiles at Fuglinari
<Jirelle> You don't have to be nervous... I don't ever bite.
* Jirelle holds out her hands
* Lin is also currently a victim of the aforementioned rhinovirus.
* Lin follows Snake outside.
* Fuglnari turns towards Jirielle. "I can't help it. I've always been nervous around doctors ever since I was a kid."
<Fuglnari> "There was this one time...."
* wisesnake turns to Linn once out in the relative quiet of the street
<wisesnake> Who did you say he'd been hanging out with most recently?
* Jirelle smiles and nods at his story, then asks him gently, "Please remember to hold out your arms, Fooglinarry."
<Lin> Rudy and Andre. However, they're both home sick--I talked to their mothers this afternoon, when I was checking my absences. That's how I learned Mirk hadn't been home.
* Fuglnari sits down on the lounge absentmindedly. "They were doing some vaccinnation deal, but the other kids said that they were really trying to...."
* Lin fishes in her pocketbook for a tissue and blows her reddened nose.
<wisesnake> Ah. Well that gives us some clue of where to start looking.
* wisesnake considers asking Linn if she wants any help with her cold, then decides not to push her luck
* Fuglnari holds out his arms casually, still not looking directly at Jirelle. "that they were gonna find out who was going to ... welll...."
* Jirelle takes Fuglnari's arms gently, still nodding and smiling in time to the rhythm of his babbling
<Fuglnari> "Change, and then they would come at night and take you away..."
<wisesnake> Did you have in mind going and looking for him right now, or did you just want me to keep an eye out?
* Fuglnari turns to face at Jirelle. "They don't still do that, do they?"
<Jirelle> I'm sorry?
<Jirelle> Oh!
<Jirelle> Of course not.
* Jirelle smiles, then leans forward and makes a 5th contact, draws selyn
<Lin> I have a few hours before I have to check on Alice. Mirk hasn't been seen in two days--that's long enough for a child to be wandering the streets alone.
* wisesnake shrugs.
<wisesnake> All right, let me change out of this Tecton uniform and I'll be right back out.
* wisesnake re-enters the Sime Center
* Lin sits down on the porch swing to wait, sniffling.
* wisesnake goes to her secret stash of clothes in one of the storerooms and changes
* wisesnake ruffles her hair to make it stand up more (so it's out of her eyes) and hurries back up front
* wisesnake goes back out to rejoin Linn
* Jirelle brings the subdued Fuglinari, and his paperwork, back out to the lobby
<Lin> From drowned stoat to thistlehead? I must say, you have a talent for looking your worst.
* Jirelle turns in the paperwork and sends Fuglnari off to the bursar's
* wisesnake smiles unpleasantly
<wisesnake> Shall we go, then?
* wisesnake 's hair quickly sags back down into a sort of wild mustang tangled look
* Lin is reminded that Snake is a Sime--and therefore dangerous.
<Lin> Certainly. [somewhat subdued]
* wisesnake begins to walk along the road toward Dockside, walking slow so a Gen can keep up and still keep her dignity
<wisesnake> Is there anything else you can tell me about Mirk's behavior recently?
* Lin stays close to Snake, uneasy at the presence of so many strange Simes.
* Garon , a big Sime, comes over. "Snake! Where you been?"
* wisesnake crowds protectively close to Lin
<wisesnake> Oh, here, there, you know.
<Lin> He's been acting out, of course: speaking out of turn and roughhousing. He loved his sister a great deal. I wasn't worried until he started leaving school with Rudy five days ago...
* wisesnake zlins Garon warily
* Garon obviously zlins Lin. "hi. You a new client of Snake's?"
* Lin shies away from Garon.
<wisesnake> So uh, Garon, what's up?
* wisesnake moves so she is between Garon and Lin
* Lin wishes she could place more confidence in her protector.
<Garon> "Oh, the usual import/export and "security work".
<Garon> "Didja hear about the WereGen here in town?" 2
<wisesnake> Were Gen?
* wisesnake 's lips quirk into a sort of smile
<Garon> "yeah, zlins just like a Gen, but when you get down to it, ... VOOOM! tentacles come out and you're burned to death in a second."
* wisesnake laughs
<wisesnake> Yeah, I've heard something... preys on the kind of low life that hangs out in places like Fast Eddie's.
see note 3
<wisesnake> Uh, yeah.
* wisesnake pushes Garon away from her
<wisesnake> Look, is there any thing I can do for you? We're on our way somewhere.
* Alea finds the files on the center's personnel and takes them all to her office
* Alea lays out the files and starts searching through them...making notations and checking facts.
* Garon looks irritated. "I was just try'n a help you!"
* Garon turns and stalks off.
* wisesnake stares after Garon, shoulders twitching
* Alea gets up and goes downstairs to the "vault" where Veraik keeps his private files
* Alea slips in and pulls out the files she needs
* Lin is wondering if all of Snake's friends are so--daunting.
* Alea makes notations, falsifying as required to fix them
* wisesnake shakes her head
<wisesnake> Come on, Lin.
* Alea slips her file out...removes all the information, replacing it with other information, then leaves
* wisesnake continues toward the part of Dockside where she'd seen Andre playing in a burnt out shell once
* Alea goes back to her office and compiles what she was requested and then seals it all in a large package
* Alea goes out...gives it to a special friend...then slips back in her office to get the reports and put them back in the filing cabinet
* Lin follows Snake, sniffling, and increasingly alarmed at the extent of the fire damage and general disrepair of the neighborhood.
* Veraik wakes up and carefully stretches his tentacles and the injured lateral.
* Alea gathers all of the folders together...making sure they are in order and slips them under her arm to return them to the filing cabinet before Tarsh gets back
* wisesnake keeps an eye out, and zlins, for trouble as they near the area she had in mind to start looking
* Alea slips out to the filing cabinets and beings to carefully replace them one by one
<wisesnake> I talked to Andre when I saw him playing in one of these burned warehouses once. Couldn't hurt to start looking there.
* Lin nods.
<Tarsh> Tarsh comes into the lobby just as Alea finishes putting the files back.
* wisesnake peers up at the warehouses until she finds the right one
<Tarsh> "Alea!"
<wisesnake> This one.
* Alea jumps
<Alea> Tarsh. oh, hi
* Alea folds hands behind back and smiles
* Lin looks at the burned-out shell, apalled.
* Tarsh comes over and picks her up to kiss her.
<Lin> My students are playing here?
* Alea relief...she kisses him back
<wisesnake> The kids think these buildings are cool.
* Tarsh puts her down and smiles at her.
<wisesnake> They explore them, and try to find things.
<Tarsh> "You make the days here worth it."
* wisesnake shrugs
* Alea wonders what he would say if he just saw the last file she sent to her friend
<wisesnake> Of course there's broken glass, and homeless people staying there, and these buildings aren't necessarily structurally sound anymore.
<Alea> the feeling is mutual, Tarsh [meaning it]
<Alea> I was just checking out something in the files...I'm all done now
* Lin shudders.
* wisesnake approaches a door, which has been boarded up but which the boarding has been loosened so it can be pried away from the building enough for someone to squeeze through
* Tarsh looks puzzled for a moment, shrugs. "No problem. How is Veriak's arm?"
<Alea> much better...He was asleep when I left him this morning
<wisesnake> If we don't find him in here, the next step would be to start asking around among the younger people... I'm not sure how much luck I'd have with.. [doesn't say... with you standing right there]
* Lin wonders how Snake got so well acquainted with condemned buildings in the slums, when she's been working as a channel at the Sime Center.
<Alea> I think he might actually be able to do a bit of work today...though no transfers
<Lin> With an obvious adult present?
<wisesnake> Uh...
<Tarsh> "That's good. Don't want him getting entran."
<wisesnake> Well, something like that.
* wisesnake doesn't point out that anybody with tentacles is an obvious adult too
* wisesnake pulls the boards away from the building side and gestures for Lin to go through the gap
<wisesnake> Be careful.
<Alea> don't worry, I won't let that happen to my channel[smiles arrogantly]
<Tarsh> Snake's new Donor is still sacked in, thank goodness.
* Alea chuckles
* Lin slips cautiously through the gap, which really isn't big enough for a full-grown Gen.
* Tarsh 's face clouds briefly at "my channel".
<Alea> yeah...and with that artwork cemented to the wall...[grins..but it fades at Tarsh's look]
* wisesnake follows, sliding through like a ronaplin-slick eel
<Alea> what is it?
* Alea concern in nager as studies tarsh
* Lin has stopped three feet inside the warehouse, unable to see in the darkness.
<Tarsh> "Nothing. Have you eaten or can I piggyback on your appetite?"
<Alea> as a matter of fact, I'm starved
* wisesnake takes Lin's arm gently and zlins, then says, "stay close with me. There's light in the center."
* Alea projects her hunger
* Tarsh 's mouth waters.
* Alea hooks her arm through his
<Alea> come on...let's go feast
<Tarsh> "I know I should eat, but I have a hard time doing it."
* wisesnake and Lin emerge into the shattered center of the building
* Alea nods
<Alea> what are you? A week away?
* Lin starts at Snake's touch, then calms when she realizes it was a hand, not a tentacle.
<wisesnake> [inside, the building is all burned out... blackened remnants of floors slope down diagonally in layers from the walls; the sun burns down brilliantly from the open sky above]
* wisesnake releases Lin
* Alea hoping she got all the files in the right place so Tarsh won't know just who all she was reading
* Alea is very very glad to distract him
<Tarsh> "Nine days. I had some tea yeserday, and a little toast."
* Alea concentrates on hunger
<wisesnake> It's riddled with all sorts of crevices and pockets in between the floors, there.
<Alea> well, it's been....I haven't eaten at all today yet
<Alea> and I've been out walking...so you won't have to worry about your appitite
* Tarsh looks briefly judgemental, but then smiles. "That's good luck for me then!"
* Alea studies Tarsh wondering at his look
<Alea> I guess it is
* Alea goes into Kitchen
* Lin , who had started to take a cautious step away from Snake, reconsiders.
* wisesnake zlins, attempting to discover any kid nagers amongst all the interference
<wisesnake> [broken glass and brick rubble crunch underfoot]
* Veraik carefully puts on his Liorie tunic gets dressed and heads for the cafeteria.
* Tarsh busies himself laying out a tablecloth and dinnerware.
<wisesnake> Boy, it sure isn't easy to find kids in this stuff, if they want to hide.
* Alea goes over to the stove
<Alea> You know, I've got this dish down now...
* Lin decides to take matters into her own hands.
<Alea> I've been working on it when no one else was around
<Lin> Mirk! Are you there?
* Alea pulls out skillet
* Veraik enters the cafeteria, selects a bowl of soup then sits next to the window by himself.
* wisesnake wonders if Mirk would answer his teacher's call or not
* Alea carefully oils the pan and then tosses the ingredients in the pan
<Alea> see...no fire!
* Alea grabs a spatula and mixes the vegetables together....then serves them up on the plate
<Alea> hajene, Veraik...please join us!
* Alea brings three plates brimming with the meal she cooked
* Veraik turns at the sound of Alea's voice.
* Alea sets them on the table Tarsh set up
<Alea> over here, Hajene. Please.
* Alea motions to table
* Veraik nods. Tarsh?
<Veraik> Thank you, Alea.
<Tarsh> "please Hajene."
* Tarsh sets a third place.
* Lin turns around at a faint, echoing cry from under the rubble.
* wisesnake zlins, then hurries toward the sound
* Alea seats herself and smiles with GREAT anticipation at the meal
<groan> [and moans]
* wisesnake follows the sounds until she is right at the spot, still can't zlin anything
<Alea> I hadn't realized I'd missed my meals today...guess I was a bit distracted...this looks GREAT!
<wisesnake> I think somebody's over here...?
<wisesnake> Mirk?
* Lin follows Snake, with a bit more caution.
<Alea> how are you feeling, Hajene?
<Alea> you seemed to have slept well all night
<Lin> Mirk, is that you?
* Tarsh agrees and looks at the food, caught up in the ambient.
<Lin> It's Miz Haskins.
<wisesnake> I think somebody is buried under these bricks.
<groan> [whimpering]
* wisesnake moves some bricks
<wisesnake> I can't zlin through them.
<Veraik> The lateral is much better. Thank you for asking.
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
* wisesnake zlins someone there and hurries to move some more bricks, and a hunk of charred floor
* Alea notices and looks questioningly at Veraik
* Veraik looks at Tarsh. Is it just me or are you suddenly hungry.
<groan> [small strained voice] Miz Haskins? is that really you?
* Lin helps Snake move the charred floorboard, since its size is large enough to be awkward.
<Tarsh> You and me both. This looks and smells great Alea."
* Alea picks up her fork and beings to eat with gusto
<Alea> thanks, tarsh
<Lin> Yes, Mirk. Stay where you are, we'll get through to you shortly.
<Alea> mmmmmm [rolls eyes]
<groan> [floorboard reveals a hole into a basment]
* wisesnake zlins cautiously through the hole
<Mirk> ~~Gen field in pain from injuries~~
* Tarsh starts eating.
<wisesnake> It's all right, Mirk. We're going to get you out of there.
<Mirk> [frightened voice] "Who's there?"
<Mirk> Miz Haskins, my friend is real sick.
* wisesnake zlins the floor, and the space underneath, trying to determine how strong the edge of the hole is, and how stable the ceiling of the basement.
<Alea> I worked really really hard...hope you like it, Veraik
<Lin> Stay calm, Mirk. We're coming as fast as we can.
* Alea gobbles up another bite
* wisesnake realizes the "hole" is actually the corner of the trapdoor, and the floor is still semi stable
<Mirk> ~~frightened child's field harder to notice ~~
<Lin> Can we get them out ourselves, Snake, or should we go for help?
* Alea suddenly feels funny...eyes widen..
<Alea> oh ... no...
* Alea jumps up and runs from the room...trying to find the nearest bathroom to lose her lunch
* wisesnake looks to Lin. "Will you be okay here for a minute? If you stay here and talk to Mirk, I can run get somebody with a rope and so forth."
* Lin nods.
<wisesnake> I'll be back soon.
<Lin> I'll keep Mirk as calm as I can.
* wisesnake leaves, scrambling over the mounds of rubble like a mountain goat
<Mirk> "I'm scared Miz Haskins."
<Lin> You're going to be fine, Mirk. Help is on its way.
<Lin> Who is your friend?
<Mirk> "Svan. He's a person not a ... them."
* wisesnake goes to the docks and locates a man working on his boat; after a brief explanation he nods and accompanies her, bringing a rope, tackle, and a small heavy net
<Mirk> "I ran away and he was talking to me, and "
* wisesnake they hurry back toward the building
* Veraik follows Alea to bathroom.
* Veraik holds head as Alea loses everything.
<Mirk> "he said mama was worried about me, and he said he'd take me home, but when we were walking across we fell, and he hit his head and won't talk to me."
* wisesnake augments to break the boards off the door, since the man won't fit in there otherwise
* Tarsh doubles up with heaves beside the table.
* Alea sits up...
<Alea> I'm sooo sorry Veraik
* wisesnake guides the Gen through the dark area out into the center
<Alea> I hope I didn't ruin yours or Tarsh's lunch
* Veraik zlins Tarsh. He'll be fine but you.....
* Tarsh tries to stand up.
* wisesnake hurries across the rubble toward Lin
<Veraik> What am I going to do with you?
* Alea shrugs
<Alea> I'll be fine
<Alea> it was an accident...really
* Seaman follows, carrying the rope and tackle, and the net
* Lin is very glad to see them.
<Lin> Mirk hasn't mentioned any injury, but his friend seems to be hurt.
<Veraik> You should eat bland food for the first three months.
* Alea pushes herself up...and stands
<wisesnake> Sorry we took so long. We brought equipment to get them out.
* Alea stiffens
<Alea> I'm fine, hajene. Really
* Veraik hands Alea a wet, cool cloth.
* Seaman is a powerful Gen with a sailor's deep tan and a windswept look
<Alea> just a virus or something.
<Alea> if you'll excuse me?
* Seaman puts down the net and rope
* Tarsh rinces out his mouth with tea, spits it back.
<wisesnake> I'm going to go down there and check their condition.
* Alea stomach rebels at Tarsh's actions
<wisesnake> Lin, can you explain to Mirk?
* Veraik shrugs and goes to Tarsh.
* Seaman studies Lin, then smiles at her
* Veraik zlins Tarsh.
* Tarsh looks at Alea wih concern. "Are you sick?" <to Veriak> "Is she? What is wrong?"
<Veraik> [Blankets the ambient] Steady Tarsh.
<Lin> Mirk, Hajene Snake is here, with a friend who can help get you out. She's going to come down the rope to help Sven.
<Tarsh> ~~Ok, just recovering from retching~~
<Alea> I'm just...it's only minor, Tarsh
* Seaman kneels down beside the equipment and begins to tie the rope to the net with an impressive series of sailor's knots
<Veraik> Alea is.......[adjust nager so the renSime can't read it] ....is just a little under the weather today.
* Alea wilts in relief
* wisesnake crouches near the hole, and waits for Lin's go ahead to go down
* Alea reactions does more than anything to bring home the fact that Veraik and Snake both have been telling the truth.
* Alea stunned by her discovery
<Mirk> "Hajny Snake? She won't .. hurt Svan, will she. He's afraid of them."
<Lin> She won't hurt him, Mirk.
* Seaman stands up and feels of the overhanging timbers trying to figure out if they are weak or strong
<Tarsh> "Should she get some more rest then? But she hasn't eaten all day."
<Mirk> "promise?"
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
<Alea> I don't require any more rest
* Alea thinks she's been sleeping all day as it is
<Lin> I promise. Can Hajene Snake come down now?
<Veraik> No..I think she should have some broth.
<Alea> I'm fine...I'll just grab a cup of tea and I'll be fine.
* Seaman ties the block and tackle firmly to a low hanging beam which appears to be charred externally, but still sturdy
<Alea> I apologize for wrecking your meal
* Tarsh looks at Veriak witha cold eye "Are you working her too hard?"
<Mirk> "well, ... all right if you _*PROMISE*_."
<Lin> I promise, Mirk. And so does Hajene Snake. Right, Snake?
<wisesnake> Yes, Mirk, I promise that I will only help your friend.
<Veraik> Tarsh. I injured my lateral yesterday. I haven't been working at all.
<Tarsh> "She was there all night working on you though."
<Alea> You know I can do my work sleeping Tarsh. I'm fine.
<Lin> Can Hajene Snake come down now, Mirk?
<Veraik> No, Tarsh. Actually...she was just sleeping next to me to help the healing along.
<Mirk> "Ok."
* Alea thinking she might ought to just get her cup of tea and go Visit Jon and see how he is
* wisesnake grips the edge of the opening and swings down into the basement, lands on her feet.
* wisesnake zlins
* Svan looks around...
* Tarsh looks at Alea. "Please take care of yourself."
<Veraik> I'm sure that when we took my clothes off, she didn't overdo herself.
* JonDrake is getting a little stir crazy...
* wisesnake speaks softly to Svan and Mirk: "I'm Snake, I'm here to help you. Will you let me help you?"
* Tarsh sits down, still zlinning worriedly.
* Alea thinks Veraik must still be delusional with the way he is phrasing things
<JonDrake> You're here...to...help...me?
* Seaman smiles at Lin, a handsome, rugged smile.
* Lin peers anxiously down the hold.
<Veraik> Well. I guess I'd better find our newest member and start his training. You are coming Alea?
<Alea> look, why don't I just sit down here and let you two finish your lunch
* Alea sighs
* Mirk stands in front of Svan.
* Alea stands back up
<Svan> You're... here... to... help... me?
<Alea> as you wish, hajene
<Mirk> "You gonna be nice to him? He's my friend."
<wisesnake> If Mirk will let me, yes. Mirk, will you let me help your friend?
<Alea> are you sure YOU are okay, Tarsh?
<wisesnake> Mirk, I came all the way here just to be nice to you and your friend.
<Svan> Mirk? You still there?
* Alea rubs wearily at her neck
* Lin is too worried about her student to notice Seaman's good looks.
<Tarsh> "I'll be all right. it's OK."
<Alea> good. good.
<wisesnake> Your teacher was afraid you were missing, and asked me to find you and help you. Will you let me?
<Svan> I'm scared...
<wisesnake> Svan, do you want me to help you?
<Mirk> "You said you didn't trust them. you sure? she comes from the essy place."
<Svan> I don't know, Mirk....
<Svan> How are you going to help me, lady?
<wisesnake> I can get you out of this basement, and take you to a place where you can rest while you are healed.
* Bcal sits up groggily on bed
* Bcal looks around
<Bcal> where the SHENNED is Snake
* Veraik and Alea go to the infirmary.
<wisesnake> You too, Mirk... do you want to get out of the basement so Linn can take you home?
<Alea> you might want to check on Jon. I'm worried about him
<Veraik> How are you JonDrake?
<Alea> without proper training, he tried to help a renSime
<Veraik> Veraik zlins JonDrake .
* Tarsh gets up heavily and goes to the lobby and sits staring at the schedule board.
* Bcal pushes herself up out of bed and quickly dresses, smoothing her hair into a perfect style...then she tears down the hall on a rampage
* Seaman feels compassion for the wounded down below, but also is impressed by Lin's librarian-like looks and calm yet distraught manner.
* Alea moves closer to Veraik, concern in nager
* Bcal spots Tarsh
* Bcal strolls right toward him
<Bcal> where the shenned in my Channel!
<Mirk> "Svan says mam is worried and I should go home. but i'm afraid."
<Tarsh> "huh?"
* wisesnake approaches Mirk and Svan cautiously, speaking quietly and calmly.
* Bcal pauses, looking at the walls in growing incredulity
<wisesnake> Afraid to go home?
<Bcal> WHO PUT THAT THERE?
* Veraik projects Channel in need.
<Tarsh> "Out, I don't know where. That out-t teacher came by."
* Bcal goes over to couch and climbs up...pulling at the art on the wall
<Bcal> shenned idiots...look at this stuff...it's liable to upset any Sime...[pulling again]
<Mirk> "I, my sister was real mad at Alice."
<Bcal> Out? [incredulity turning to anger] OUT?!
<Bcal> withOUT me?
* Bcal storms over to desk and pulls at drawer looking through it until she finds a pair of scissors
* Tarsh looks at her as if to say "Obviously."
<Svan> Yes.
<Bcal> outta my way Sime [to Tarsh]
* Tarsh pushes back to avoid Hurricane Bcal.
<Alea> is Jon going to be okay?
* wisesnake gets to Mirk
<JonDrake> I'm really sore...
* Bcal grabs scissors eyes gleaming in triumph
<wisesnake> Mirk, do you want to watch me while I help your friend?
<Veraik> I think so. He's sleeping.
<JonDrake> Pardon me if I'm a little slow...
<Alea> sore where, Jon?
* Bcal storms back over to the couch...clambers up on the back of the couch and begins to pry the painting away from the wall
<Mirk> "well, all right." [Defiant] "But you better Not hurt him!"
<JonDrake> Everywhere. Especially on my arms, but I can feel an ache all over.
* Veraik sits beside JonDrake.
* JonDrake feels a little better.
* wisesnake edges around Mirk and kneels beside Svan, zlinning
* Alea moves in carefully, doing her best to support Veraik and not distract him
* JonDrake relaxes. Lets out a sigh.
<Bcal> shendoni rebels...probably Distect...putting this this obscene stuff up on the walls
* Svan looks up to Snake.
* Mirk watches Snake like a hawk.
* Veraik goes to medicine cabinet and makes a double foesbine. "Here...drink this."
<JonDrake> Ok.
* Veraik continues to project Channel in need for the student Donor.
* JonDrake drinks it right down, not knowing what to expect.
* JonDrake makes a very sour face, but manages to swallow..
* Veraik goes to the alcove to make tea.
<Veraik> Veraik zlins JonDrake .
<Alea> would you like some help, hajene?
<Veraik> No. Alea. I can do it.
* Alea nods
* Bcal gets first picture off and goes to the second one
* Bcal passes the window and pauses...turns with glittering eyes toward Tarsh
<JonDrake> Just stay there. That feels better. [smiles weakly]
<Bcal> just what time is it?
* Bcal swings the scissors absently in her hand, pointing them at Tarsh when she asks
<Veraik> I can see that you training has started a bit late.
<wisesnake> [to Svan] It will be safe to move you, but it's going to hurt. Will you let me give you some medicine to ease the pain?
<Alea> you know Jon, when I said giving was the best thing in the world, I didn't mean go out and try to grab the first renSime you ran into and help him
<Svan> Medicine? Does it taste bad?
<Veraik> But at least you are among the living so you're real training can begin.
<wisesnake> Yes, but it will make the pain less.
<JonDrake> Heh!
* Tarsh looks very nervous as his eyes track the scissors.
* wisesnake opens the medical kit and gets out fosebine for Svan
<Bcal> Well? Are you going to answer me?
* Bcal eyes narrow even further.
<Bcal> and normally I wouldn't have to ask this. But just what DAY is this?
<Tarsh> "Uh, 2:53"
<Tarsh> "and 32 seconds."
<Veraik> So as soon as you are well enough, we will begin your lessons or...... did you want to go to a Householding for your training?
* wisesnake gives the fosebine to Svan
<Tarsh> "September 25th. Thursday."
<JonDrake> I didn't "just run into him," you know. I was trying to escort him to the hotel.
* Tarsh gets up very slowly so as not to startle the psychoDonor.
<JonDrake> It was my fault we got lost, took a wrong turn.
* Alea shakes her head in sympathy
<Veraik> Yes, JonDrake but without the proper training, that was a very dangerous thing to do.
* Tarsh shrinks back against the filing cabinets.
* wisesnake gives the fosebine to Svan
<Bcal> do you know what that...that misfit of a Farris...that SCREWED UP BYBLOW has been doing to me
* Bcal shakes the scissors again in her agitation
* Tarsh glups and shakes his head.
* Alea thinks it could have been fatal
<wisesnake> Drink this, Svan. It might taste bad now, but you are going to be glad to have it when we are trying to get you up through that hole.
<Bcal> she has been using her...her Sime ability to make me sleep
<Bcal> SLEEP so she could do her dirty little deeds that she thinks I know nothing about
* Bcal steps closer...her fury growing
* Tarsh grins feebly "That shows what a good channel she is, doesn't it?"
<Veraik> At this point the best thing to do is to remember that day and to go on from there.
<Bcal> and to think I actually tried to act HONORABLE with that that... that SNAKE
<JonDrake> Yes, there's no doubt that I'm alive. I'm constantly reminded. :-)
* Veraik smiles at JonDrake.
* Bcal anger sparks at Tarsh's words
<Svan> Ok.
<Alea> at least we can remind you, Jon
* Tarsh grabs for Bcal's scissorhand wrist.
* Svan closes his eyes to steel himself...
* Tarsh holds it away from both of them if he can.
* Bcal pulls back, intending to toss the scissors at one of the pictures...but turns on Tasrh when he stops her
* Veraik waps tentacles around JonDrake. "Let's try to sit you up. The faster you start to move, the quicker you will recover."
* Alea moves to help
* wisesnake makes Svan drink the fosebine, then puts the medical kit away and goes back to stand under the hole.
* Seaman drops the net down, letting the rope play out.
* Bcal immediately forces her nager flat when Tarsh touches her
* wisesnake catches the net, and pulls it over to where Svan is lying
<Bcal> I would suggest, Sime, that you release my hand unless you want to feel what a first class Donor can do to you
* Tarsh grabs the scissor with his handling tentacles, holding them closed.
<wisesnake> I'm going to move you over onto the net, Svan. It's going to hurt, but remember, I'm only trying to help get you out of here, okay?
<Bcal> I'm waiting [steely cold]
* Tarsh lets go of the wrist but not the scissors.
<Bcal> get the rest of those paintings off the walls or I'll burn it off when I get back
* JonDrake wonders what Alea means by that...
<Bcal> I'm going to go find my "channel"
* Mirk looks over at the net.
* Lin1 , now that the rescue is well underway, has the time to notice that the Seaman is good-looking.
* wisesnake crouches over Svan and carefully picks him up, moves him the short distance over onto the spread out net.
* Tarsh pulls the scissors away. "I understand Sosu."
* JonDrake manages to sit up...
* Seaman sees Lin looking and smiles heartwarmingly. He has a really great chest, by the way.
* Bcal exits
* Mirk paces along with Svan.
<Veraik> Ve...ry good. How do you feel?
* Lin1 smiles back, then sneezes.
* Tarsh moves with extreme care and very slowly puts the scissors back in the drawer.
* wisesnake gathers the sides of the net around Svan and picks him up, keeping the rope free of entanglement
* wisesnake carries him carefully over underneath the hole.
* Tarsh collapses into his chair and sprawls limply back in it.
* Veraik leaves Alea to hold JonDrake steady while he goes to pour the tea.
<Tarsh> "I hate this job."
* Seaman gathers in the extra rope as Snake moves closer, then when she is underneath begins to pull with more strength, taking advantage of the block and tackle to slowly pull the net containing the patient upward.
* Veraik pours three cups and hands them all around.
<Alea> thank you, hajene
* Mirk looks worried that Svan is out of reach, but looks and realizes that Snake is still down here and relaxes.
<JonDrake> Thank you, Hajene. :-)
<Veraik> You're both welcome.
* Seaman ties off the rope when the patient has reached the level of the opening, and then gets down and guides the other Gen's still form through the hole.
* Mirk looks and realizes that Snake is still down here and tenses up.
* Alea grins at Veraik and takes a sip
* Alea contemplates Veraik
* Veraik zlins the new Donor and is pleased with his progress.
* JonDrake watches Alea's contemplation. Sime territory people are so transparent....
<wisesnake> Don't worry, Mirk, everything's going to be fine. I didn't let Linn drag me halfway across town and crawl down into this dark hole just to do anything bad to you. I'm here to help.
<JonDrake> So, Doc--what do you think?
* Seaman pulls Svan up onto the rubble beside the hole
<Mirk> "If you do, Miz Haskins'll she'll ..."
<wisesnake> Mirk, come here, I can lift you up. Do you want to get out of here?
<Veraik> I think you will be able to start some non physical training tomorrow. Do you think you will be up for it?
* Alea smiles surprised that Veraik is going to be starting Jon's training so quickly
* Lin1 reflects that there is absolutely nothing she could do if Snake were to decide to harm Mirk. Not that she thinks Snake would--at least by her own standards.
* wisesnake holds out her hands to Mirk
* Alea continues to sip her tea
<Mirk> [small voice] "yes"
* Alea realizes she is hungry again
<wisesnake> Come here, then. I'll lift you up.
* Mirk moves up to arms reach of Snake.
* Veraik sips his tea and zlins Alea to assure himself that she has recovered from her lunch experience.
* wisesnake picks up Mirk and boosts him up toward the hole.
* Seaman reaches down and grabs Mirk's arms, pulls him up the rest of the way.
* Seaman sets Mirk on the ground and smiles at him.
<Seaman> You're a brave boy!
<Lin1> You are, Mirk. We're all very proud of you.
* wisesnake jumps up, catches the edge of the opening with hands and tentacles, and pulls herself up onto solid ground.
* Lin1 tries not to flinch too obviously at this display of Sime agility.
* JonDrake thinks about how stir crazy he's going. Sure, I'll be ready [and maybe by that time I'll believe it].
* Mirk is glad when Seaman has him.
* Mirk beams.
* Mirk goes over to see Svan. "Svan? Are you OK?"
* Seaman smiles at Lin again.
<Seaman> By the way, my name is Verile. Is Mirk your boy?
* Tarsh sits up and gets out the scissors and hides them in the back of the bottom drawer.
* Mirk runs over to hug Lin1's knees.
<Lin1> In a way. He's my student.
* Svan is barely conscious, but seems to nod yes
* Mirk is shaking.
* Lin1 kneels down to hug Mirk.
* wisesnake rubs her hands together
* Veraik zlins JonDrake.
<wisesnake> Do you think you can make it to the border all right from here, Linn, or do you want to accompany Svan and I back to the Center?
<wisesnake> You and Mirk are welcome, if that's what you'd like to do.
<Lin1> You were very brave, Mirk, but now I think it's time to get you home. Your mother was very worried when I talked to her this afternoon.
<Lin1> Thank you, Snake, but I think I'd better get Mirk back where he belongs.
* Verile offers, "I would be delighted to accompany you out of the city, if you'd like an escort."
* Lin1 eyes Verile with interest.
* Mirk has tears on his face, and nods to going home.
<Lin1> Why, thank you.
<Lin1> Come, Mirk.
<Verile> Let me just get my rope and net.
* Lin1 holds out her hand for Mirk's.
* Verile deftly removes the knots and coils the rope and net with a few quick turns.
* Mirk puts his hand in Lin1's
* Verile slings the rope, net and tackle over his shoulder, then offers his elbow to Lin1 with a smile.
* Veraik takes empty cup from JonDrake. "We're going to leave you now. I have to talk to Alea about your curriculum. It's time that you get some rest."
* Svan looks up weakly. You be careful....Mirk....Okay?
<JonDrake> Ok, Hajene.
* Lin1 places her free hand in the crook of Verile's arm.
<wisesnake> Good bye, Lin.
* Alea stands <JonDrake> Uh, Hajene?
<Lin1> Goodbye, Snake.
* Verile guides Lin1and Mirk through the easiest course among the rubble
<Mirk> "Ok, Svan. I'll come see you. I'll bring my frog, Froggy."
* wisesnake looks at Svan
<Svan> Heh.. [smiles, and lets his head drop back]
<Veraik> [turns back] Yes. JonDrake?
<JonDrake> Do you think we could do my pledge sometime soon?
* wisesnake looks at Svan.
<wisesnake> Are you going to let me bring you back to the Sime Center?
* Svan manages a slight nod...
* wisesnake kneels down and picks up Svan, trying to be careful
<Veraik> We will do that before you start your training. How's that?
<wisesnake> Just stay nice and calm, and stay still, okay?
<JonDrake> Ok. I'd like that.
* Svan nods... closes his eyes.
* wisesnake takes Svan back to the Sime Center, taking the backways so people don't see her while she's burdened with the body
* Alea goes to door
<JonDrake> Bye...
* wisesnake arrives back at the Center and comes in the front door
* JonDrake lays back to rest some more. The visit from Veraik has helped. He feels a little more vital. It must be that response thing.
<Veraik> Rest now, JonDrake...and know that you will become a very good Donor.
* Alea waits at the door for Veraik
* JonDrake smiles.
<JonDrake> Good night, you two...
<Veraik> Good Night.
* Tarsh rushes up. Snake, Bcal is loking for you and SHE IS TIC'ED.
<Alea> nite
* Veraik goes out the door.
<wisesnake> Great.
* Alea follows
<wisesnake> Can I have a treatment room for this Gen?
* Alea staying by his side
<Tarsh> "of course. Number 3 is open."
* wisesnake carries Svan to Treatment room 3
* Veraik enters office and stops in the middle.
* Tarsh comes after with a clipboard of admittance forms.
* Alea stops right behind him
* Veraik turns to Alea. "What happened to my office?
* Alea begins to fidgit
* wisesnake figures B'Cal would really be steamed if she actually works with the Donor absent, so she instructs some people to clean up Svan and check his injuries, then asks Tarsh who is available as far as channels go.
<Alea> well...uh...it looks pretty good to me, Veraik
* Veraik goes to the sink and sees the broken and the dirty cups in it.
* Alea remembers she forgot to come back and clean up
* Alea wonders who picked up the broken cup from against the wall and put it in the sink
* Alea knows she's in trouble again
<Tarsh> "I think Jirelle is. she had donations earlier, but that was a while ago."
* Alea slinks over and seats herself
* Veraik cleans up the mess. "The least you could do is leave the files on my desk tidy.
<wisesnake> Thank you.
<Tarsh> "Veriak is up and around, but I don't know if he can work. Alea isn't well."
<wisesnake> [concerned] She's ill?
* Alea feels guilty, especially after Veraik didn't spill the beans to Tarsh about her condition
<Tarsh> "We were haveing lunch and she threw up for no reason."
* Veraik finishes and sits down.
<wisesnake> I would have thought that was just morning sickness.
<Alea> I apologize hajene
<Tarsh> "Veriak said she was just 'under the weather' but I don't buy it."
* wisesnake shrugs
<Alea> I was...um...upset at Snake and well...when I was standing on your desk, I kicked them off...
<Alea> I did pick them up though
<Tarsh> "She really didn't loo----*"
<Veraik> [waves tentacle in acceptance]
<wisesnake> Unless this is a useage of the term "under the weather" that I wasn't previously familiar with... Simelan is not my native tongue, you know.
<Veraik> Training JonDrake here means more responsiblity.
* Tarsh goggles at wisesnake. "Just WHAT?!"
* Alea smiles
<wisesnake> She hasn't told you yet?
<Tarsh> "Told Me _What!?"
* wisesnake frowns. "I assumed you knew. Of course, I assumed it was yours...."
<Veraik> Standing on my desk.......[looks at Alea]...I don't think I want to know more.
<Alea> that's great.
<Alea> momentary insanity, hajene.
<Alea> It won't happen again
<Tarsh> "No I Didn't ... Mine?"
<Veraik> Thank you.
<wisesnake> The baby. She's pregnant, Tarsh.
* Tarsh staggers back.
<Tarsh> "but .. But ..."
<Tarsh> "baby?"
<wisesnake> Tarsh, let's discuss this outside the treatment room.
* wisesnake guides Tarsh outside, then out into the lobby
<Tarsh> "baby?"
<Tarsh> "baby?"
<wisesnake> [patiently] Yes, Tarsh. The natural end result of sexual intercourse. A baby.
* Tarsh nods.
<Veraik> You do realize that it's not just me who will be training JonDrake.
* Alea looks hopeful
<Alea> of course, hajene
<Veraik> You will be doing a great deal of it and....
* Alea nods eagerly
<Veraik> he will require his own Channel.
<Alea> I would be honored to assist in his training, hajene
<wisesnake> [Sees Jirelle] Jirelle, could you handle the Gen in Treatment Room 3, please? I'm kind of tied up here.
<wisesnake> [to Jirelle] Thank you, and watch out, that head injury is nasty. Come ask for help if you require any.
* Tarsh is grinning like an idiot.
<Alea> What channel did you have in mind, Hajene
* wisesnake smiles tentatively
* Veraik smiles. It's been a while since I've trained anyone. I'm looking forward to it.
<wisesnake> You all right, Tarsh? Everything okay now?
<Tarsh> "huh?"
* wisesnake shakes her head
<wisesnake> I hope you are going to be able to handle this reasonably, because Alea sure isn't. I still don't think she's admitted to herself that she really is. Pregnant, I mean. Veraik and I both told her.
* Tarsh furrows his brow. "She can't? She hasn't? You did?"
<Veraik> I was thinking that Jirelle might be good.
<wisesnake> Yes, the night Veraik was injured.
<Veraik> She's a Second Order Channel.
<Alea> yes, a good choice, Veraik
<Veraik> I really don't want JonDrake, especially now that he was injured to try a transfer with a First until I am sure that he is ready.
<Tarsh> "wait you can't know that quick. besides we ..."
* wisesnake watches Tarsh curiously, waiting for the end of his sentence.
<Tarsh> Just since the other night?
<Alea> I still don't understand why he would do that
<Tarsh> [comes the dawn] "Oh, you mean when you Told her!"
* wisesnake laughs
<wisesnake> Yes, what did you think I meant?
<Veraik> It's been my experience that one a Gen has decided to become a Donor, he or she just can't wait to try it out.
* Alea thinks then smiles softly
<Tarsh> "that that was when she ..." ~~blushes~~
<Veraik> So I'm really not surprised.
<Alea> it wasn't that way with me
<Alea> I was absolutely devastated that I wasn't a channel
<Veraik> Let's just hope that he doesn't abort with the remembrance of what happened.
<Alea> I never believed them when they told me I wasn't going to be
<Alea> fought it like crazy[lost in memories]
<Tarsh> "A baby..."
<Alea> but finally accepted it[glances at Veraik]
<Alea> I'm sure he won't abort
* Tarsh trys to stand up, his legs are rubber.
* Veraik smiles at the Donor attitude. "Yes. of course."
<Alea> was there anything else, hajene?
* wisesnake wanders over to a couch in the lobby and flops down on it
<Veraik> Yes. One more thing.
* Tarsh just sits there grinning and mumbling "baby..."
* Alea looks patiently at Veraik
<Alea> yes?
<Veraik> Just be careful during the training and don't overtax yourself.
* wisesnake lounges idly on the couch, letting her gaze pass over the pictures... notices a couple of them have been pried off and are lying on nearby furniture.
* Alea lowers her eyes
<Alea> of course not, hajene
* wisesnake asks a janitor to rehang them; watches in satisfaction as they reglue the pictures then depart
<Veraik> Very well. Run away
<wisesnake> Wow...
<wisesnake> [surveying the spread of artwork]
<Alea> run away?
<wisesnake> That is just... just... really, really BAD.
* Alea thinks what an odd phrase
<Veraik> I can zlin that you want to leave and go find him.
<Veraik> I'll be fine.
* Veraik smiles.
* Alea sighs
<Alea> well, I don't necessarily want to go find him
<wisesnake> It's like a museum, only all jammed in together and um, sort of, not very good.
<Alea> but I am a bit tired
* Veraik zlins for the truth.
<Alea> thank you, hajene
<Alea> and...thank you for not telling him
<Veraik> Yes. Go rest.
<Veraik> You're welcome.
<Alea> I--I hadn't really accepted until that moment that I was really...that there actually was...
* Alea shrugs
* Alea stands
* wisesnake congratulates herself on not jumping in and trying to start healing Svan without B'Cal's presence.
<Veraik> [waves tentacle] You'll be fine.
* Alea exits
* Veraik zlins Alea as she leaves the room.
<Bcal> what the SHENNED are you doing! [to snake]
* wisesnake leaps off the couch
* wisesnake heart pounding
* Bcal sees the art and fire leaps to her eyes
<wisesnake> B'Cal!
* wisesnake backs off from the woman's rampaging nager
* Veraik verifies the files are in order then refiles them.
<Bcal> you better say your prayers, Snake because if you survive this training I'm going to put you through it'll be a miracle
* Bcal advances
* wisesnake shrinks against the wall
<Bcal> do you hear me...zlin me and see if it ain't true
* Bcal shows enticing nager, tempting snake
<wisesnake> I... [voicelessly].. I'll take your word for it...
* wisesnake is shocked by the sudden switch
<Bcal> you see this...it's all yours...but you keep screwing with me like you are and I'm gone
* wisesnake tries to rally her system, and her composure
<Bcal> you won't get a good transfer
<Bcal> you won't get a shenned thing
* wisesnake is drawn to B'Cal's field, but shocked by her words
<Bcal> you'll be dead in months
* wisesnake shivers
<Bcal> if you keep fooling with things the way your are now
* Veraik walks into the lobby just when BCal is threatening Snake.
<Veraik> WHAT are you doing!!!
* Bcal continues to entice Snake with nager
* Bcal ignores Veraik
* wisesnake quails, caught between Veraik's anger and B'Cal's insincere but powerful enticement
* Veraik adjust ambient and shields Snake.
<Bcal> you think about that next time you decide to take off and purposely sedate your Donor...
<Bcal> you think about that when you're in need and wondering why you don't trust your Donor--when you brought it on yourself
* Bcal finally turns to Veraik
<Bcal> I am talking with my transfer partner, hajene
* wisesnake backs away, released temporarily from B'Cal's awful attention
<Bcal> something YOU interrupted with your clumsy attempt to shield her
* wisesnake backs behind Veraik
<Veraik> Leave! You are not going to be her transfer partner.
<Bcal> Oh no? [smiles sneeringly] I beg to differ. When YOU can get an order from the Tecton, then I'll leave...but not until then
<Veraik> I plan to notify the Tecton of your incompetence.
<Bcal> go right ahead...if you can make it stick
<Bcal> zlin her now though...she's already in better shape than she was when I got here
<Veraik> That is quite enough. [shields Snake]
<Veraik> I can zlin her.
* wisesnake stays behind Veraik, not meeting B'Cal's eyes
<Veraik> I can zlin her terror of you.
<Bcal> obviously not very good if you can't see the improvement...an improvement YOU are not helping by standing in my way
<Veraik> Health wise, she is improved.
<Bcal> and letting her hide behind you is going to help her emotionally?
* Bcal snorts
<Veraik> But you will never get a transfer into her because of how you are treating her.
<Bcal> she's the child you never had, isnt' she Veraik...the child you always wanted?
<Bcal> A shendoini be flayed Farris
* Bcal advances toward Veraik
<Veraik> She will abort on you and she will die.
* wisesnake watches B'Cal, pale-eyed
<Bcal> just how far would you go to get a Farris? Huh?
<Bcal> steal her off the streets? Keep her dependent on you by stopping someone who can help her?
<Veraik> Touch me BCal and........[zlins]
<Bcal> you're sick..sick with lust for Farrises...any Farrises
<Bcal> like that little slut you pass around the office 4 to this messed up channel
<Bcal> you aren't one, worship them and collect them...don't you?
<Veraik> Yes I admit that I have a fondness of Farrises and you won't even admit to yourself that you hate them.
<Bcal> oh, I admit it...I think they're overstuffed peacocks...but I don't let it interfere with my job
<Bcal> as you so obviously are
* wisesnake is staring at B'Cal, with a sort of shocked expression
<Veraik> And for that reason alone, you are not qualified to be in the same room with one.
<Bcal> wake up, Veraik
<Veraik> You are delusional BCal!
<Bcal> I'm the best...
<Bcal> That's why they sent me
<Veraik> NOT in my book
<Bcal> this child is still in first year and needs someone who will help her...care for her, no matter how tough or hard it gets....not baby her and protect her like you're doing
<Veraik> Terror is not the answer with Snake..
<Bcal> well, your book isn't the one who sent me
<Bcal> oh, she wasn't terrified...she was feeling guilty because one of her little plans was revealed
<Veraik> I ask you again. Leave!
<Bcal> why don't you ask your precious Farris just what she did
<Veraik> I will contact the Tecton and we will have our answer.
* Bcal smirks and turnsto goes up the stiars
<Bcal> Snake...you will be up here..according to the schedule outlined
<Veraik> I'll ask her.
<Bcal> don't make me come looking for you
* Bcal disappears from sight
* Veraik sighs in relief.
* wisesnake sags against the wall, a quivering mess
* Veraik turns to Snake. Want to tell me about it?
* Veraik zlins Snake and goes to her.
<wisesnake> I'm fine, I'm fine.
* wisesnake straightens
* wisesnake is sweating and her heart is still hammering with reaction
<Veraik> So tell me what BCal was talking about. [waits]
<wisesnake> What she was talking about when?
<Veraik> BCal said you did something. What was it? 5
<wisesnake> Well, I left the Center without her... I had to help Linn find a lost student. But I didn't do any channeling functions.
* Veraik smiles.
<Veraik> So that is what it was all about.
<Veraik> [gets serious] Look before I do anything.....
<Veraik> I'll ask you. Do you want to finish training with BCal? [zlins]
* wisesnake opens her mouth to answer, then hesitates, unable to frame a reply
<Veraik> Look Snake. You know I will help you as best as I can but you have to talk to me.
<wisesnake> ~~ conflicting emotions: self hate/lingering terror/shock~~
<wisesnake> Look, that's not one of those questions a person can just.. answer.
<Veraik> Why not?
<wisesnake> Because I don't know what the answer is!
<Veraik> Either you don't want BCal's help or you do. Which is it?
* wisesnake zlins like she is about to have a nervous breakdown
<wisesnake> Look, I just... I'm a little.. I'll think about it, okay?
<Veraik> Fine Snake! IF that is what you want.
* Bcal comes back down the stairs...pauses...studies both
<Bcal> Snake!
* wisesnake flinches
* Bcal strides over toward her
<Veraik> I won't call the Tecton about that woman.
* wisesnake shrinks back; blocked by wall
* Bcal reaches out and takes her arms...projecting a sooothing calming field
<Bcal> relax on me
* Bcal uses field to manipulate Snake
* wisesnake stiffens, then is forced to relax
<Veraik> IF you decide differently, you come to me.
<Bcal> this is what we have together Snake
* Bcal voice soft, melodic, ignoring veraik's presence
<Bcal> we can have this aaaalll the time, but we have to work together
<wisesnake> ~~~~ numbness, with a tiny screaming terror buried far underneath ~~~~
* wisesnake shivers, but doesn't fight B'Cal
<Bcal> come on, Farris, let go, relax
<Bcal> let's get those sensitive overwrought systems under control
<Bcal> gent-ly now...easily...
<Bcal> just relax... [soothing] and don't tax those systems
* wisesnake takes a deep breath
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Bcal .
<Bcal> that's it...breathe nice and easy
<Bcal> you've done too much today...you need me to help you
<Bcal> you can't do it alone
<Bcal> see what it feels like alone......as compared to now
<wisesnake> I haven't done anything today. [tiny voice]
* Bcal flares field with her desire to help Snake
* Veraik takes a step towards BCal.
* wisesnake 's thoughts go blank as B'Cal's field flares
<Bcal> no, my sweet Snake, you haven't....and that's the problem
<Bcal> we should have been together, with me there to help you
<Bcal> by yourself...in the shape you're in, you don't realize it, but it's just not good on you
* Veraik 's tentacles stretch towards BCal.
* Bcal easy soothing nager as she gently strokes Snake's tentacles
<Bcal> feeling better? Relaxed?
* wisesnake moves forward slowly and leans against B'Cal
* Bcal says it softly
<Bcal> that's it
* Veraik 's nager flares jeaousy.
* Bcal slides her arms up and around Snake
* wisesnake 's face still wears an ebbing torment
* Veraik groans.
<Bcal> you have to understand, Snake...we have transfer in two weeks
<Bcal> I should be by you always, to help keep that fear away
<Bcal> It's not safe for you to be going out on your own
* wisesnake closes her eyes
* Veraik takes another step towards BCal.
<Bcal> you have a problem with something I do..you tell me...but you give me two more weeks...just two weeks of your time
<Bcal> and then we'll discuss my unorthadox behaviour. Okay?
* Bcal finally releases Snake and steps carefully back
* Bcal shoots a look at how close Veraik is then returns her attention to Snake
* Veraik realizes what he is doing and augments to his office.
<Bcal> I hope you see the difference between the two ways of existance, Snake...before and...now
* wisesnake stands passively, her eyes haunted
* Bcal frowns for a moment looking into Snake's eyes, then forces herself not to ask...after all, she's a Farris, that's bad enough
<Bcal> now, why don't we go eat. I'm certain you haven't eaten today, have you?
* wisesnake shakes her head slowly
<Bcal> come on, then Snake...let's go
* wisesnake follows B'Cal
Notes:
1) The first part of the log is missing. Tarsh is speaking to a locksmith... [return]
2) This rumor actually started because of Jon Drake's destruction of a ruffian in episode #25, but it plays nicely into Wise Snake and Tarsh's plans to play a trick on Melvin Gardens. [return]
3) Part of the log is missing here. During the missing part, Alea goes back to the Sime Center thinking to take advantage of the file cabinets' currently unlocked state. Garon leans around Snake to reassure Linn that he won't harm her. [return]
4) This is in reference to Alea. [return]
5) B'cal was referring to Snake's repeatedly making B'cal oversleep in order to escape her domination. [return]