Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #32: Slam! (10/1/97)
* BobbyT knocks on Linn's door
* Linn opens the door.
<Linn> Bobby!
* BobbyT looks nervous and a lot younger than he usually does
<BobbyT> Um, Miz Haskins, can I come in?
<BobbyT> [looks over his shoulder]
<Linn> Why, certainly.
* Linn steps back, holding the door open in invitation.
* BobbyT comes in
<Linn> Why don't you come and sit down on the couch?
* Linn leads Bobby to the living room.
* BobbyT sits down on the couch, still looking worried
<BobbyT> Um, Miz Haskins, I gotta ask you about something really important.
<Linn> What is it, Bobby?
<BobbyT> Actually, some, sort of, advice.
<BobbyT> For a friend of mine.
* Linn nods, waiting for Bobby to get to the point.
<Linn> Of course.
* BobbyT begins to look sheepish
* Linn wonders what Bobby's been up to now.
<BobbyT> My friend was talking to R- uh, some of his friends, that he used to hang out with more but hasn't been doing it on account of, his mom made him stop.
<Linn> I see. And what did the friends say?
<BobbyT> And they were telling m - my friend how they were playing around and they found like a dead body.
<BobbyT> Or they thought it was a dead body anyway... but when they poked it with a stick it kinda moved.
<Linn> A dead body? Where?
<BobbyT> And I... I mean, I asked my friend what he said to that, and he said all the talk about the body made him feel nervous because his other friend M- um, Mirk, almost got in trouble once and now he is all worried about the body and maybe somebody who is in trouble.
* BobbyT is never coherent under even the best of circumstances, and things seem to be going downhill under stress
<Linn> Where was this body, Bobby? And how long ago did your friends find it?
<BobbyT> They said they found it over in... a.. um, sort of an old building, like where Mirk was.
<Linn> The same old building?
* BobbyT shrugs, round eyed
<BobbyT> I dunno, I never been down there.
* Lowren is in the kitchen frying eggs.
<BobbyT> But I was wondering, maybe somebody could call the police or something, so that person doesn't just stay there maybe hurt or something.
* BobbyT fumbles awkwardly
<BobbyT> Like Mirk, you know.
* Briel is checking the beds in the new temporary sime center 1
* Lowren goes over the the icebox in the church kitchen and looks again for bacon.
* Briel notes that Parnul is now well and ready to go
* BobbyT looks down, feeling stupider and stupider
* JonDrake finishes getting dressed & comes out to begin work in the temporary building.
* Briel picks up Parnuel's chart and checks it...nods...goes to Parnul to zlin him
<Linn> I see. Well, I was planning to go over to the Sime Center when you knocked on my door. Perhaps I could check the warehouse where Mirk was trapped, to see if this person is still there.
<Briel> you look like you're better Parnul
<Parnul> ~~Mostly healed can convalesce at home~~
<Linn> It was very clever of you to come and tell me about this, Bobby.
* JonDrake still doesn't have any official duties, but he looks to find something to do.
<Parnul> "Yes, I'm feeling much better. Thanks to you channels."
* JonDrake tries to track down what supplies were saved, and what we're missing.
* BobbyT looks up, looking more than a little relieved
<BobbyT> It was?
* Briel slips the chart to her hand and studies Parnul
* BobbyT looks somewhat ashamed
<Briel> do you have anywhere to go when you leave here, Parnul?
<BobbyT> I didn't want to rat on my friend, or his friends, or anybody, but...
<BobbyT> It was last night they saw it.
<Linn> It was. If your friends were right about the person needing help, you have been a hero.
* BobbyT smiles for the first time
* Linn was alarmed enough about having her kids roaming the streets during the day.
* JonDrake goes around, and eventually runs across Briel & Parnul.
* Linn concludes unhappily that she's going to have to buy another month of Snake's information.
<Parnul> "I don't live here in town, but I can probably stay with Lowren."
* Briel motions for Jon to take a Donor postion by her
<Briel> oh, good good
<BobbyT> Well, I gotta go. I been grounded ever since my parents busted me.
* Briel makes some notations on the chart
<Briel> you've healed up nicely...you gave us quite a scare there you know.
<Briel> According to rumors...you'd be dead now if it wasn't for this Donor here
* Briel motions with a tentacle at Jon
<Linn> I will let you know what I find out about this person your friends saw.
* BobbyT grins again
<BobbyT> Okay, Miz Haskins.
<Parnul> "I figure it will be safe for a week or so since I just took transfer the other day."
* Linn leads Bobby back to the door.
<JonDrake> Hi there guys.. You're looking much better...
* BobbyT jumps off the couch and follows Linn
<BobbyT> Bye Miz Haskins.
<Parnul> "Yes, But if not for me he wouldn't have burned."
<Parnul> ~~shame~~
<Linn> Goodbye, Bobby. It was very brave of you to try to help the sick person.
* BobbyT runs off
<Briel> that's a chance he decided to take...and he's none the worse for it...don't worry
<JonDrake> Don't worry about it, Parnul. It wasn't you who burned me. Is that what you thought?
* Briel smiles at Parnul at Jon's words
<Parnul> "Thank you Mr. Drake. I can't tell you how much I owe you."
* Linn gathers her purse, and starts reluctantly for the Sime Center.
<Parnul> "No, I assumed it was that punk."
<JonDrake> Well, it's going to be part of my job, [looks at Briel] right?
* Linn feels that she has spent far too much time at the Sime Center, most of it trying to fend off tentacles, with varying success.
* Briel shrugs not elaborating on his job since she won't be training him
<Briel> we've got you a new set of clothes...the others were ruined
<JonDrake> It was. I was burned already when I tried to help you.
<Briel> and we've got a few forms for you to fill out too
<JonDrake> I'm glad I was able to help you. I feel bad because I was the one who got lost...
<Parnul> "Thank you. Where do I pick up my bill, by the way?"
<Briel> your bill?
* Briel looks confused
<Parnul> "Paperwork is eternal, isn't it? These bureaucrats will drag us all down in time."
* Briel slips the forms from the clipboard and hands them to Parnul with the pen
<Parnul> "I pay for my transfers. Healing must cost more, it is more labor intensive."
<Briel> oh
<Briel> well...
* Briel looks a bit embarrassed
<Briel> there's no charge
<Parnul> "That's very kind of you, but I don't need charity. I'm well able to pay, don't worry."
* Linn dutifully detours by the abandoned warehouse on her way, as she promised Billy, but she's more concerned with whether Veraik can and will help her keep her job by supporting her with the school board.
<Briel> after all you've been through...we should have been more careful with our escort and then getting flooded out of the Sime Center and on these cots.....which, by the way, we've started moving things back in over there
<Briel> no, there's no charge.
<Parnul> "You're sure?"
<Briel> absolutely
<Briel> why don't you let Jon, here help you...make sure you're okay
* Briel makes a few more notations
<Parnul> "huh. Ok then. Thanks again."
* JonDrake smiles a wry smile.
<JonDrake> You sure about that?
* Linn expects that whatever drunken bum the kids found the previous night is long gone.
* Briel clips the board back on the end of the bed
* Briel nods to jon
<Briel> of course, Natzehr
<Parnul> "if either of you ever need anything, contact me. Here's my card."
* Parnul pats his pockets which are empty.
<JonDrake> Thanks.
<Briel> uh, just drop one by the Center later
<Briel> no problem
* Briel heads off down the aisle to check the other patients
<Parnul> "That reminds me, who is storing my wallet and stuff?"
* Linn sees no unconscious body in front of the burned-out warehouse, but decides to check the alley just to be thorough.
<JonDrake> So, shall we just try to get you to accomodations? Oh, I'll look into it.
<wreckage> [you see a window which the boards have been pulled back somewhat from]
<Parnul> "Uh, remember what happened last time... let me go change."
<JonDrake> Heh! Well, I won't make THAT mistake again!
* Parnul carefully walks off to the lavatory with his new clothes.
* Lowren comes out carrying a plate of eggs and toast.
* Linn sees the loosened boards, sighs, and decides that her promise to Bobby really requires her to check inside as well.
* Linn pulls back the loosened board and peers inside.
<wreckage> [there is plenty of room to squeeze through]
* Lowren looks at Parnul's empty bed. "Uh, Mr. Drake do you know where he went?"
<Lowren> "I tried to make him eggs like his mother did. I couldn't find any bacon, though."
<JonDrake> Good morning!
* Lowren remembers his manners.
<JonDrake> Parnul? He just went into the Lavatory...
* Bcal moans
<Lowren> "Oh, sorry!" [formally] "Good Morning, Mr. Drake."
* Linn hears the moan, pulls back the board, and slips cautiously inside, remembering the instability of the footing.
<Linn> Is anybody there?
<Lowren> "Uh, Mr. Drake, could I ask you a question?"
* Bcal moans again before wracking cough
<JonDrake> Yes? Sure.
* Linn peers towards the cough in the dim light and makes out a body.
<wreckage> [it is the body of a Gen woman, previously fine clothing now covered with mud and soot]
<Linn> Are you all right?
<wreckage> [the rubble is damp from recent rains, and so is the woman's hair and clothing]
* Linn walks closer and examines the moaning person.
<Linn> What's the matter with you?
* Bcal blinks tries to focus on woman standing over her
* Bcal raspy
<Bcal> where am I?
<Lowren> "I was assuming that Parnul could stay with me until he's better, but ... is that safe?"
<Linn> You're in a burned-out warehouse in the worst part of Dockside.
<JonDrake> He's been given a clean bill of health, apparently.
* Bcal looks confused, unsure
<Bcal> where's my channel?
<Lowren> "That's not what I meant. I'm a Gen and he's a Sime. I know he'd never want to hurt me, but..."
<JonDrake> Oh! I see...
* JonDrake thinks about how to answer the question.
* Bcal shivers and pulls feebly at her jacket
<JonDrake> What exactly are your concerns? If there's anything I can't answer, I'll help find the information.
* Linn is unable to understand this last question, because B'cal used Simelan.
<Linn> What was that?
* Bcal blinks again, looking at Linn's arms
<Bcal> channel [English] my Center channel
<Lowren> "Well i've heard that if a Gen gets hurt around a Sime, the Sime might ..."
* Bcal fades a bit, muttering in Simelan again, delusional from fever
* Linn puts a hand on B'cal's forehead, determining the presence of a nasty fever.
<JonDrake> Hmmm.. Let's see if what this says...
* JonDrake picks up Parnul's chart.
<Linn> Well, that bit about a Sime Center channel was clear enough. I suppose you want to be taken there.
* JonDrake leafs though it looking for something that he can understand.
* Bcal pushes at Linn, trying to pull herself up, still muttering about her channel
* Linn knows that she can't move B'cal by herself.
* Bcal falls back down in exhaustion
<JonDrake> Hmmm...
<JonDrake> Look here. [points to information at beginning of chart] According to this, Parnul is nonjunct. That means he's never killed.
* Lowren looks at the chart, and nods like he could tell what something in simelan says."
* Linn wonders where the closest reliable help can be found.
<JonDrake> From what I've learned, that usually means that a Sime has less of a chance of losing control.
* Linn remembers the good-looking sailor whom Snake recruited to help rescue Mirk.
* Linn also recalls that the docks are only two blocks away.
<Lowren> "Oh that's good. Should I donate again first?"
<JonDrake> When was your last donation?
<Linn> You stay right here while I get some help. We'll get you to a channel.
* Bcal doesn't seem to hear Linn
* Linn exits the warehouse and starts for the docks.
<Lowren> "About 5 weeks ago."
<JonDrake> The lower our selyn levels, the less of an irritant we can be to them. ;-)
<JonDrake> Hmm.. I'd say yes, then.
* Linn scans the faces, trying to locate the sailor's berth.
<JonDrake> Not that you'd be in real danger, but your fields could be distracting.
* Verile is sitting on a post repairing a net
<JonDrake> Do you remember what they told you about your rating?
* Linn spots Verile and works her way through the crowd towards him.
* Verile looks up at Linn's approach, and smiles brilliantly
<Verile> Why hello!
* Linn is very glad that Verile remembers her. 2
<Linn> Hello, Mr. Verile.
<Verile> What a beatiful dress you've got on. Almost as beautiful as yourself.
* Linn blushes.
* Verile stands up and sets his work aside
<Verile> To what do I owe the honor of your visit?
<Lowren> "I don't remember, But I've only donated once."
<Linn> Well, I'm afraid I'm here to ask a favor of you.
<Verile> I am at your service.
* Alea is over in the Center...supervising the work as everyone returns to the center--downstairs at least
* Linn blushes again.
<JonDrake> Well, you've probably just donated the first level. We can go and schedule a donation time...
<Lowren> "Yes, I think I should."
* JonDrake can only read a little more of the chart than Lowren...
<Linn> There's a sick woman, in the abandoned warehouse where my student Mirk was trapped. She asked to be taken to the Sime Center so one of their channels could help her. She's not really conscious, though, and I'm not big enough to carry her.
<Verile> Oh!
* Briel is over at the Sime Center supervising the move back
<Linn> Do you have the time to help?
<Verile> Yes, of course
* Linn leads the way back to the warehouse.
<Linn> She's in there, against the wall.
* Briel sees that all of the transfer rooms are cleaned up and are moved back in and then goes to the offices
* Verile picks up B'cal, carefully
* Bcal moans and mumbles inchoherently
* JonDrake watches Lowren pause in apparent indecision...
* Briel makes notes to make sure basement continues to be pumped out and for the upstairs furniture to be replaced ASAP
* Linn admires the ease with which Verile manages B'cal's considerable weight.
* Verile squeezes back out of the opening with B'cal, in an impressive demonstration of strength and grace in a Gen
* Garon` prowls around the warehouse district, searching.
<Lowren> "Ok. Where do we go for that?"
<Verile> Lead the way!
* Linn walks by Verile's side as they head towards the Sime Center.
* Verile smiles at Linn; a very white smile
* JonDrake leads Lowren to the desk.
* Linn blushes yet again, and realizes she's been doing an awful lot of that in the past few minutes.
* Garon` sees Linn and Co. "Hey! You seen a redheaded sime woman around here?"
<JonDrake> Well, they'll be able to set you up here.
<Lowren> "All right. More forms, I assume?"
<JonDrake> Since you've already donated, not too many.
* Linn has a very good idea what kind of man would dress like Garon, and prudently ignores the inquiry.
<JonDrake> We'll already have your card on file. If it survived the flood...
* Garon` zlins Bcal. "Isn't that the Gen from Hell? What happened to her?"
* Briel sends notice for the occupants in the church to move everyone back over...leaving the bed for the in-house staff to stay in for another day
* JonDrake goes to the renSime manning the desk...Speaks with him a moment....
* Linn quickens her pace slightly, hoping to shake the unwelcome would-be acquaintence.
<JonDrake> Ok, I'll get back. I'll let Parnul know where you are...
<Lowren> "Ok."
* Lowren goes over to the SC."
<Garon`> "Aren't you Snake's friend? We met the other day, remember?"
<Linn> Sir, I'm afraid I don't know you.
* Garon` looks dubious. "if you say so."
* Bcal moans
<Linn> And now, if you please, my friend and I must get this woman some help.
* Briel has a Gen man the desk until Tarsh shows up later...wanting no nervous renSimes up front right now
* Linn doesn't wait for an answer, but pushes on towards the Sime Center.
<Linn> Ah, there it is at last!
* Garon` shrugs and heads the other way.
* Verile follows Linn with B'cal's limp form
* Linn can't help but admire how easily Verile has managed the heavy weight over the distance.
* Linn hurries up the front steps of the Sime Center, noticing some unexpected water marks on the porch.
* Verile follows
* Linn pokes her head through the door, inspecting the lobby for Simes.
* Lowren comes up behind Verile. "Morning."
* Linn is relieved to see a Gen receptionist this time, and only one other Gen in the lobby.
* Lowren wonders why are bringing a sick Gen to the SC instead of a hospital.
* Verile shifts B'Cal's weight and waits patiently
* Briel comes in, zlinning
* Linn marches up to the desk once she's convinced it's safe.
<Briel> what's happened
<Linn> Excuse me.
* Verile follows Linn with the body
* Briel ignores Linn, zlinning B'cal
<Briel> bring her this way
* Lowren comes in and goes to the desk.
* Verile starts to follow Briel, then pauses to glance back at Linn.
<Verile> Will I see you again? [smiles nicely]
<Linn> You might.
<Linn> Thank you for your help.
* Verile bows slightly, then turns and follows Briel
* Briel hurries down the hall and pushes open a door
<Briel> in here
* Verile follows
* Lowren wishes he could be that smooth with girls.
* Linn waits in the lobby for the desk clerk to finish with Lowren.
* Verile is a tall, well-tanned and -muscled Seaman with ruggedly handsome features and windswept blond hair
<Briel> stay right here, I'll be back
* Briel leaves to find Jirelle
* Verile lays the body down on the bed
* Verile pauses, then straightens out the arms and legs
* Briel hurries down the hall, looking for Jirelle
* Verile pulls B'cal's suit skirt back down to her knees
* Verile leaves the treatment room and walks back up toward the lobby
* Briel pauses by the desk
* Verile sees Linn in the lobby and touches his hat as he leaves
<Briel> do you know if Jirelle is in this building or back over in the church still?
* Lowren says to Linn. 'I'm sure your friend will be all right."
* Linn smiles and waves goodbye to Verile.
* Verile exits the Center
* Linn is too nervous about Briel's closeness to pay attention to Lowren.
* Jirelle hears people are asking for her over at the Center and leaves off her work in the church to go over there and see what is going on.
* Jirelle enters the lobby
* Briel sees her and hurries over to her
<Briel> Jirelle, could you take care of a patient in room 8
<Jirelle> Certainly.
<Briel> thanks...I'm still getting transfers straightened out
<Jirelle> No problem.
* Jirelle goes to room 8
* Briel moves off toward the hall calling to someone heading the wrong way
* Jirelle enters the room
<Jirelle> Oh, wow.
* Bcal moans, muttering low in Simelan
<Jirelle> [sees it is B'Cal]
* Jirelle approaches the bed, zlinning B'cal
<Jirelle> Oh wow, I just knew this was going to happen.
* Jirelle goes out and calls some people to clean B'cal up and get her into a hospital gown
* Bcal rolls head and blinks slightly
* Jirelle waits until they are done, then locks the door behind them and returns to B'cal's side
* Bcal blearily tries to focus
<Bcal> my channel[rasps out]
<Jirelle> You're going to be fine. Just try to relax and let what will happen happen.
<Jirelle> [soothingly]
* Bcal blinks...recognizes her
<Bcal> the channel...incense
* Jirelle smiles
<Jirelle> Yes.
<Jirelle> You gave me advice, which I followed.
* Bcal tries to nod and starts coughing again
* Jirelle reaches for B'cal's arms.
* Jirelle smells powerfully of incense, and candles
* Jirelle 's eyes are dreamy
<Jirelle> I can help you. Just let your mind wander free.
* Bcal is too busy coughing to concentrate on anything
* Jirelle does what she can so far as healing B'cal physically and urging her body to help itself by projecting need
* Bcal responds to Jirelle, relaxing slightly
* Jirelle has soon reached her limit, and rests for a while.
* Jirelle smiles down at B'cal
* Bcal drifts
* Bcal smiling a bit at Jirelle
* Alea comes walking in the door and sees Linn
<Alea> hello Linn
<Jirelle> You must be healed spiritually before you can learn physical health. Tell me what is troubling you so, that you have to do this kind of harm to your body?
<Linn> Hello.
<Linn> I've decided to take you Hajene Veraik up on his offer to help me.
<Bcal> I need my channel...
* Alea eyes brighten
<Alea> really?
<Alea> oh, that's great
<Alea> I'll be sure to tell him
<Alea> I'm on my way in to see him now
<Jirelle> Is that all it is?
* Jirelle doesn't seem so sure
<Linn> Thank you.
<Linn> I'll wait out here.
<Bcal> no, that's not right...my channel needs me...yeah, she needs me...
<Bcal> have to find her...
* Bcal drifts off to sleep, exhausted
<Alea> of course
* Jirelle watches over B'cal for a while.
<Alea> You know, Linn...
* Linn sits on the couch and pulls out a stack of arithmatic papers to grade.
<Linn> Yes?
<Alea> I want to thank you for coming...you won't regret asking Veraik for his help
<Alea> he's a man of his word
* Jirelle leaves the room, being careful not to disturb the sleeping Gen
<Linn> I hope not. It wasn't an easy decision to make, but I don't see any other option for me at the moment. 3
<Alea> as controller here he cares for every Sime and Gen...whether In Territory or Out Territory
* Jirelle returns to the lobby, looking sad and thoughtful
<Alea> it's your only option
* Linn nods.
<Alea> excuse me
* Alea turns and heads toward Veraik's office
* Jirelle sees Linn
* Linn begins to grade papers.
* Jirelle smiles
* Alea remembers she was supposed to report to him yestreday morning....but one thing led to another and she is just now getting back to the Center
* Jirelle leaves the building to go back to the church
* Alea thinking where that lunch led to and smiles
* Alea taps on Veraik's door
* Alea wonders just how much damage they have been able to fix in there
* Alea also wonders if they have finished in her office yet
* Alea notes one good thing to come of the fire...the water ruined the other art in the lobby so maybe she can paint some pictures to replace them
* Alea wonders if she should just slip in ....
* Alea decides to tap again, then if he's not there, she'll consider her duty done and go on about her business until Veraik shows up
* Alea signals
* Veraik goes to the door, opens it, and quirks an eyebrow at Alea.
<Alea> good morning, hajene
<Alea> you wanted to see me?
* Linn shakes her head as she marks the third red X on Rudy's paper.
* Veriak does not smile but waves a tentacle for her to enter.
* Alea slips in, closing the door behind her
* Alea notes one wall is still black and it smells a bit of smoke
* Alea goes over and sits down in chair
* Veriak goes to his new desk and sits down like the weight of the world is upon his shoulders.
* Veriak zlins and stares at her but doesn't say anything.
* Alea knows that look
<Alea> what is it, hajene?
<Alea> you know, the sprinkler system really works wonders
<Veriak> Your baby appears to be healthy. At least that is one thing good in the world.
<Alea> I wasn't sure if the one Snake got.....
* Alea touches her abdomen and smiles
<Alea> yes, hajene...thank you for worrying
<Veriak> [looks pensive] How is Tarsh?
<Alea> anyway, as I was saying....the sprinkler system really does work...Snake..
* Alea quirks her head, unsure of the line of questioning, but wary now
<Alea> he's...well, he's fine...I just came from there
<Veriak> Did her usual trick and made the Center presentable again.
<Veriak> From where?
<Alea> no...Briel made it presentable...
<Alea> From his apartment
<Veriak> I'll be sure to thank her when I see her.
<Alea> with Tarsh
* Linn goes on to Emmly's paper, which only has one incorrect answer.
<Veriak> His apartment?
* Alea looks oddly, her cheeks reddening a bit
<Alea> yes
<Veriak> [Nodding] Does that mean he was post?
* Alea 's face flames
<Alea> I would think that was obvious from yesterday
<Veriak> Yes...well...I just wanted to make sure.
* Alea nods
<Alea> well, then, if that's all
* Alea thinking she really got off lightly, she stands
<Veriak> And what did you learn from this experience?
* Alea pauses
<Alea> which, um, experience?
<Veriak> SIT DOWN Alea and stay seated until I tell you that you can leave.
<Veriak> Understood?
* Alea sinks back down shocked...
<Alea> not to let Drug addicts sleep it out in the infirmary...is that what you mean?
<Alea> or maybe to screen others before they come in that front door trying to provoke renSImes?
<Veriak> That's better. Now tell me what you learn about Donors who tease renSimes?
* Alea nager reeks of outrage
* Veriak quickly adjust nager to blanket outrage.
<Alea> I don't tease renSimes, hajene
* Jirelle comes back into the Center to ask a question
* Linn discovers that Mirk's paper is only half completed, and frowns.
* Veriak thinks that if she continues, he is going to have many problems.
* Jirelle looks around for Alea, hears voices coming from Veraik's office
<Veriak> You don't?
<Alea> no, I don't
<Alea> what happened with Tarsh was....was.....
<Alea> it just happened
<Veriak> And you don't know that Tarsh was fixed on you.
<Veriak> I thought you loved Tarsh?
<Alea> I...what do you mean?
<Alea> Of course I didn't realize he was fixating on me...
<Alea> and you know I love him
<Veriak> Alea, as a Donor, and especially as a Farris, you must be more than careful when dealing with renSimes.
<Alea> I only realize he'd actually fixated on me when you went to give him transfer
<Alea> I am careful with them....
<Veriak> Are you?
<Alea> I just didn't realize about Tarsh's background....
<Alea> I do now
<Alea> yes, I am
<Veriak> Tarsh almost aborted several times.
<Alea> I know that
* Jirelle hesitates, seeing Linn
* Alea looks away from Veraik, clasps her hands then stands to pace
<Jirelle> Are you waiting to be helped? [nicely]
<Veriak> He almost died. He wanted you. Your nager...your life. And he would have killed you if he could have. Do you understand?
<Alea> he wouldn't have killed me
* Alea glares at Veriak
<Veriak> ALEA!!! I said to sit DOWN and you will!!!
<Alea> it worked out
<Veriak> This time.
* Alea comes forward and slaps her hands onto Veraik's desk
<Alea> I don't WANT to sit down
<Veriak> We were lucky.
<Alea> and I'll be more careful from now on.
* Linn looks up, notices Jirelle's tentacles, and shrinks back.
<Veriak> [points tentacle] You will. Now SIT!
<Linn> I'm waiting to speak with Hajene Veraik.
* Alea trembling iwth anger....stands
<Alea> you can say what you will, hajene without me sitting
* Veriak stands.
* Alea turns and walks back to the window, wilting
<Alea> forgive me hajene
* Alea puts a trembling hand to the window sill
* Veriak doubles over then take a breath and straightens up.
* Alea leans her head against the window looking out
<Alea> I honestly didn't realize what was happening
<Veriak> Turning away, Veraik whispers. "You have a power nager, Naztehr."
<Alea> I would never endanger....
<Veriak> So powerful, that it can hurt even me.
* Alea pauses and turns...sees Veraik and hurries over, slipping around the desk by him
* Alea slips down to her knees next to his chair...
<Alea> sit down
* Veriak shudders. "I can't imagine how bad it must have been for Tarsh."
* Alea feels guilty
<Alea> please, sit down Veraik
<Jirelle> I'll let him know you're waiting. [kindly]
<Veriak> Veriak zlins Alea .
* Alea is despondent
<Linn> Thank you.
* Jirelle signals at Veraik's door
* Veriak sits.
* Alea reaches out for his hand, but pauses at the sound
* Veriak goes to the door. "Yes."
* Veriak adjusts ambient for the moving nagers.
* Alea hurries after him..
* Alea remembers how that upset him and backs away, going back over and sinking wearily into a chair
<Jirelle> Hello, [suddenly shy]
<Jirelle> [aware now that she'd interrupted something]
<Alea> hajene, this is Jirelle one of our new channels
* Veriak wipes a tentacle over his eyes while he grips the door facing almost to the breaking point.
* Alea says over her shoulder
<Jirelle> I was just over at the church... the deacon was wondering if we would require... uh... [notices Veraik's stress; almost loses her nerve]
<Veriak> Jirelle? Please come in. Sorry we haven't meet before.
* Alea sees Veriak's white knuckle grip and hurries over to Veriak
<Jirelle> Maybe this is a bad time... .?
<Jirelle> [hesitating]
* Veriak nagerically signals Jirelle not to say anything.
* Alea wary, hesitates touching Veraik, then finally slips a hand to his arm
<Veriak> Veriak zlins Alea .
* Alea projects soothing, desire to help
<Alea> yes, Jirelle?
* Veriak becomes hypo again. "Sorry, Jirelle. What was it that you wanted?
* Linn goes back to grading papers, now that Jirelle is safely out of the room.
<Jirelle> Well... the Deacon was wondering if we would require the church past Sunday, because some other arrangements will have to be made that morning...
<Alea> hajene, Briel mentioned that the furniture upstairs should be replaced by Sunday morning...
<Alea> the only people in the building now are the in house people, the workers
<Veriak> I....[looks from Alea to Jirelle] I have no idea what you are talking about. Church?
* Alea turns to Jirelle
<Alea> tell the pastor we'll be out by Saturday night
<Jirelle> Okay
* Alea slips her arm up veraik's deepening the contact between them
<Jirelle> Also, B'cal seems to be out of danger now, but since I'm only a Second, you might want to check in on her and make sure.
<Alea> of course we will
* Alea nods and smiles
* Veriak zlins Alea to assure himself.
<Veriak> What about B'Cal?
<Alea> was that all Jirelle?
<Alea> B'cal was found on the street unconscious...she's being seen to
* Linn shakes her head at Errik's continuing conviction that six and seven make fifteen.
<Alea> I was going to update you on all of this...Briel told me just as she was going off shift
<Veriak> I...I should go to see about her.
<Alea> hajene, may we talk first
* Veriak slowly turns to Alea.
* Alea motions to his sofa
<Alea> please
<Jirelle> B'cal was brought in with pneumonia and exposure. She was unconscious.
<Veriak> We...we will do the best we can, Jirelle. I see to it as soon as I finish my talk with Alea.
<Jirelle> I did the best I could for her, but as I am only a Second...
* Jirelle nods
<Veriak> Where is Snake?
<Jirelle> Also, there is a Gen waiting for you in the lobby.
* Alea wants to choke Jirelle
<Veriak> She is the best person to handle B'Cal's illness.
* Jirelle remembers something about B'cal looking for Snake
<Alea> Snake is still missing, hajene
<Jirelle> I think B'cal was looking for her [volunteers]
<Veriak> I'll..I'll go to her.
<Alea> excuse us Jirelle
* Alea pushes the door closed in her face
* Veriak starts to walk out the door.
* Alea holds Veraik's arm
<Alea> this way, hajene
<Veriak> Veriak zlins Alea .
* Alea goes to the couch
* Jirelle is surprised at being shoved out
* Veriak stops....zlins Jirelle then Alea then Jirelle then Alea then.....
* Jirelle is then filled with compassion for the difficult jobs Alea and Veraik must have, that they are driven to such measures.
* Alea flares her field with great desire to help Veraik
* Jirelle aches with the longing to be able to help them with their hardships
<Alea> come on, Veraik. Come over here and let me help you first
<Alea> everything else can wait
* Veriak turns to the selyn-rich nager and walks towards it.
* Jirelle sighs and turns back to the lobby
* Alea holds out her hands
* Linn tries to mark an incorrect problem on Bobby's paper, and discovers that her red pen is out of ink.
<Alea> let me help
* Veriak stands zlinning the hands which seem to glow and pulsate with a promise.
<Alea> please
* Alea uses nager to puncuate words
* Veriak suddenly flips to hypo and focuses on the Donor. "I'll be fine. I should go to B'Cal now.
* Alea sees he isn't going to move stands up and glides toward him
<Alea> no, Veraik
* Veriak stands.
<Alea> you're a mess
* Alea moves up next to him and slides her hands into his....
<Veriak> [a little smile] I'm fine, Alea. Really."
* Alea continues to project her overwhelming desire to help
* Linn fishes in her voluminous purse for another red pen.
<Alea> no, you aren't
* Veriak turns to her again.
<Alea> I'm betting it's entran and needmares and a few other things you've hidden from me
* Jirelle walks over to Linn
<Jirelle> Hello, [smiling in a friendly, open manner]
<Alea> you have a Gen out there that requires your help and then B'cal too...you will not face them like this
<Veriak> I'll....I'll....be fine.
* Linn looks up nervously.
<Jirelle> I just wanted to let you know that we care about your business and Hajene Veraik will be with you just as soon as he can.
* Alea slides her hands up Veraik's arms...enticing him to take what he needs to straighten his system out
<Linn> That's good to know.
<Alea> come on, Veraik...
<Jirelle> Is there anything I can get you while you wait? Tea? Coffee?
<Alea> stop fighting me
<Alea> I'm your Donor
<Linn> No, thank you.
* Veriak zlins her arms then suddenly takes her into transfer grip.
<Linn> They might spill on the papers.
<Alea> use my field....yes.....
* Alea smiles encouragingly
* Veriak stops then gently lays his head upon her shoulder, using her resistance to rebalance his systems.
<Alea> move your hands and let's take care of that entran now
* Linn finally manges to locate her backup red pen at the very bottom of her purse.
* Veriak barely whispers. "Thank you Naztehr."
<Alea> when was the last time you slept, Veraik?
<Veriak> He releases her and steps back.
* Alea looks up concerned
<Veriak> Yesterday. [no grin but need is too near] in your bedroom.
* Jirelle decides to go back to the church and see if she can be any use over there
* Linn is wondering if she will have the luxury of worrying about math tests after the school board meets, or if finding a new profession will be her new preoccupation.
* Alea isn't sure if she believes him
<Alea> I'm worried...you look awful...
* Jirelle trudges out the front door and back to the other building
* Veriak is thinking that he is very glad she didn't ask when was the last time he had worked.
<Alea> if you require me to spend my evenings with you, only ask...I am your Donor after all
<Alea> though I haven't been acting like it the last couple of days
<Veriak> Barely whispering. "Yes. Please."
* Alea reaches out and slips her arms around Veraik, holding him for a minute
<Alea> as for your other problem.....
* Alea steps back and looks up
* Veriak makes himself a fosebine.
<Alea> Linn is in the lobby. She has come to you for help. You know she is a Simephobe...we've been trying to get her to come to you about that and she has finally relented
* Alea follows
<Veriak> I will be fine. I have to see to B'Cal and to the Gen women.
<Alea> I'll be glad to get the consent forms you'll need to help her
<Alea> yes, the Gen is Linn...the teacher
<Veriak> Who?
<Veriak> Ahhh....
<Veriak> And she is here?
<Alea> she's waiting to see you...shall I bring her in...we can work with her then go to B'cal after....
<Alea> yes, in the lobby
<Veriak> Yes, please bring her but before you go, there is one other thing, Alea.
<Alea> yes, hajene
* Alea wary
<Veriak> You must not be around Tarsh for the next month. I can assign you to him for post. That is the best that I can do.
<Alea> but
<Veriak> It's for his own good.
<Alea> but....
* Alea swallows her anger and turns to the door
<Alea> I'll get Linn now
* Alea wanting to get away from him before she ruins the work she just did
* Alea pulls open the door and signals to Linn
<Alea> Hajene is ready to speak with you Linn
* Alea still thinking this is underhanded
* Alea goes to Tarsh's desk and finds the appropriate papers they'll require
* Linn puts the stack of math papers away in her purse and stands.
* Alea walks back to the door and motions Linn inside
<Alea> please sign these
* Alea hands her a pen
<Alea> and then hajene Veraik will discuss the problems with you
<Alea> I'm sorry you had to wait so long
* Linn , used to the Tecton's having a form for every occasion, isn't surprised that they would have a form for talking to school boards.
<Linn> That's quite all right.
<Alea> I'll just take these papers right in and then you will be free to discuss everything with him
* Linn takes the forms and absentmindedly signs them without reading them.
<Alea> again, I think you've made a wise decision coming to him
* Alea holds her hand out for the forms
<Linn> I hope so.
<Alea> of course you have
* Linn hands the forms to Alea.
<Alea> Veraik is the best
* Alea goes to Veraik's desk, lays the forms coolly in front of Veraik
<Alea> please come on in Linn
* Linn enters the room.
* Alea goes back to the door and closes it, locking it so Jirelle won't interrupt this time
<Linn> Hajene Veraik, I'm glad you were will to see me.
* Alea stays near the door, away from Veriak, wondering if she has to obey Veraik in his stupid dictates...
<Linn> I hadn't planned on imposing on you by asking for your help with this matter, but it's becoming more and more obvious that I won't be able to continue in my job without it.
<Veriak> Please be seated Linn. I'm very happy that you have come.
* Alea thinks Tarsh's post will last two weeks so that at least gives her two weeks with him, then she can worry about it
* Alea perks up
* Linn sits in the desk chair.
* Alea thinks then, she can see being careful...and she'll talk it over with Tarsh, but what Veriak doesn't know won't hurt him
* Alea happy again
<Alea> I was telling hajene Veraik that you have offered to come here on your own, even signed the paperwork requesting his help
<Linn> Yes, there seems to be paperwork for everything, doesn't there?
* Linn notices the "tentacle chair" on the other side of the room and looks away nervously.
<Alea> well, this is a very important decision, Linn..of course there is paperwork for it
<Alea> to protect the Center
* Veriak zlins Linn when she is looking at the transfer couch.
<Linn> I understand. It wouldn't do to create a political incident.
<Veriak> May I see the paperwork, Alea?
* Alea thinks POLITICAL incident?
* Alea nods at his desk..where she dropped the paperwork
* Veriak picks up the paperwork and reads the information.
* Alea sees Linns reaction to the chair and thinks---not surprised though a bit early for her to be so tense
<Alea> everything will be fine, Linn
<Alea> don't worry..
<Veriak> I'm kind of surprised that you would consent to this treatment Linn. I understand your concern, however, and I will do the best I do for you so you can stay with your children.
* Linn is so preoccupied with the prospect of imminent involuntary retirement from her profession that she only really hears the last bit about staying with the kids.
<Linn> That's very important to me.
* Veriak nods. I see.
* wisesnake slips in the backdoor of the Sime Center
<Veriak> Standing, Veraik goes to Linn and places a hand on her shoulder then quietly waits.
<Linn> The school board tends to overreact to the slightest flaws in their teachers.
* wisesnake steals down the hallway, zlins Veraik's office door warily, then slips inside Alea's office
* Linn shrinks away, looking up at Veraik in surprise.
* Alea stays alert, keeping a close eye on veraik in case he needs her
<Linn> What...?
<Veriak> How would you like to assure your children and their parents, that you are the best....that you know first hand how to handle all situations without fear.
* wisesnake goes through Alea's things, a bit recklessly, until she finds what she came for.
<Linn> That might impress the school board...
* Veriak allows a dorsal it touch Linn's shoulder near his hand but out of sight and almost out of feel from the Gen.
* Veriak smiles gently. "You are doing very good, Linn. You should be proud."
* Briel zlins something odd in Alea's office
* Briel goes to the door
<Briel> hello, Snake
* Linn doesn't notice the tentacle, and takes Veraik's compliment as referring to her teaching skills.
* wisesnake looks wild and dangerous
* Briel zlins
* Briel eases inside
* wisesnake zlins wild and dangerous as well.
* Briel pushes Alea's door closed and flips the lock
<Veriak> Linn, I will do the best I can for you.
<Briel> I'm here, Snake, talk to me
* Briel worried about Snake's condidtion
* Linn is relieved.
<Linn> Thank you.
* Briel wonders if she should hit the alarm for help but it's behind Snake
<Veriak> I noticed that you were looking at the transfer couch. Would you like to sit on it? Just you.
<Veriak> To see how comfortable it is?
<wisesnake> ~~~ stressed out, strung out, in need and bordering on entran~~~
<Briel> why don't you let me help you, Snake
* Linn looks at the "tentacle chair" again.
* Briel holds out her arms
* Briel trying to soothe her
<Veriak> It won't bite. It's just a chair.
<Briel> you did the right thing...coming here...Alea is busy, let me help you
* Linn is uneasy enough at Veraik's closeness that being across the room from him is starting to look good.
<Linn> Very well.
* wisesnake 's eyes narrow, warning Briael not to move any nearer
<Veriak> If I'm going to be working with you, you should at least get used to seeing it.
* Linn gets up and approaches the lounge slowly.
<Briel> why don't you talk to me Snake...let me help you with that entran
* Veriak smiles as he watches Linn closely.
* Briel in working mode, offers herself to Snake
<Veriak> Alea. Why don't you show her how to sit on it.
<Alea> of course, hajene
* Linn reaches out to touch the upholstry tentatively.
* wisesnake retains a rigid control on her system
* Alea slips over and takes the seat Veraik usually occupies and motions her to the other one
* Veriak zlins Linn when she is investigating the couch.
<Briel> Snake...I'm a first too, though not a Farris...you're not going to hide anything from me
* Linn is remembering the last time she sat on a "tentacle chair".
* wisesnake shifts minutely, eyes flicking from Briael to the door and back again.
<Briel> if you didn't come here for help, what did you come here for?
* Briel eases forward a bit, blocking the exit
<Briel> you know, we've all been worried about you, terribly so
<Briel> why don't you let us help you, get some rest, then we'll tell everyone you're back
<Veriak> As you can see, it is just a chair Linn. Nothing to worry about.
* Briel offers her arms again, projecting a desire to help, reaching out with her field to touch Snake's
<Alea> doesn't hurt a bit
* wisesnake starts to answer Briael's question, but then tenses up at Briael's motion. [wary]
* Alea smiles
* Linn doesn't want to appear totally irrational, so she forces herself to sit on the very edge of the lounge.
<Briel> what do you have in your hand? Did Alea leave something here for you Snake?
* wisesnake 's field goes hard and electric at the touch of Briael's - very unpleasant
<Veriak> How does it feel Linn?
<wisesnake> Get away from me, Briael. [hissed]
* Briel zlins Snake again....trying to soothe Snake
<Briel> let me help you.
<Linn> It's comfortable enough, I suppose.
<Briel> you zlin bad, Snake
<Briel> you're in need
* Veriak smiles at the Gen women who is both scared and brave.
* wisesnake 's eyes grow bright and angry at Briael's attempt to manipulate her
* Alea reaches out and pats Linn's leg...
<Alea> that's great, Linn
<wisesnake> ~~ tension/warning ~~
<Briel> there's a whole Center here who misses you
* Linn is hoping that now they can get down to business and discuss what she requires form Veraik at the school board meeting.
<Briel> just relax
<wisesnake> [the item in Snake's hand is a folded piece of cloth] 4
<Veriak> Linn. You're doing a great job.
* Briel soothing
* Briel zlins the cloth in Snake's hand then looks up at Snake
<Briel> talk to me Snake
* Veriak goes to stand beside the two Gens and offers a hand [tentacles retracted] to help Linn stand up.
<Briel> better yet, let me get your systems straightened out then we can let Veraik see to your help
* Briel moves forward another inch
* wisesnake looks and zlins as if she is on the edge of rushing Briael to get to the door.
* Alea stands, allowing Veraik to twine his tentacles around her hand if he'd like
* Linn , after her earlier encounter with the chivalrous Verile, unthinking places her hand in Veraik's.
<Briel> look, Snake..if you arne't going to answer me, I'm not letting you out that door
* wisesnake 's pale eyes glitter with a maddened pain the nager hides.
<wisesnake> What would you have me say to you, Briael?
<Briel> tell me what's the matter
<Briel> you're guarding yourself, trying to disguise pain....
<Briel> it won't work
* wisesnake laughs bitterly
<Briel> you have entran
<Briel> you're in need
<Briel> you're full of drugs again
<wisesnake> What's the matter? You ask me what the matter is?
<Briel> you want the door unlocked then you WILL tell me what's the matter
<wisesnake> This world is what the matter is.
* Briel waits patiently
* Veriak smiles and helps Linn to the chair at this desk. I'm so proud of you.
* Alea follows
<Veriak> This was a great first step.
* Linn is relieved, thinking that Veraik has finally decided to get down to business.
<Briel> so, you're pissed off at the world, what's new.
<wisesnake> Now get out of my way, or you are going to regret it.
<Briel> I can't do that until you talk to me
<Veriak> So tell me how your parents are doing?
* wisesnake advances on Briael, eyes burning
<Briel> let me help you with your entran
<wisesnake> No.
* Briel stiffens
<wisesnake> Get out of my way, Briael.
<Briel> you don't want to do this
<Briel> you're in no shape to leave
<Briel> let us help you
<wisesnake> You can't stop me.
<Briel> the door is locked
* Veriak goes to sit behind desk and allows tentacles to flick out to take Linn's papers.
<Briel> by the time you get through the door
<Briel> the alarm will have sounded
* wisesnake pushes past Briael.
<Briel> you won't get out before Veraik catches you
* Briel grabs Snake's arm
<Linn> Well, the parents whose children were playing in Dockside have decided not to be too hard on their kids.
* Briel twining a tentacle around it
* wisesnake yanks her arm away from Briael with a hiss
* Linn starts a little at the quick tentacle movement.
* Briel goes to the door, leaning against it
<Veriak> That's good. [using another tentacle to grab pen and make a notation]
* Briel projects a soothing nager, reaching out
<Briel> talk to me
<Linn> They've decided to blame my Sime Center unit instead, and are asking the school board to get rid of it--and me.
<Briel> why did you leave..why are you back?
<Briel> let us help you
* wisesnake rejects the manipulation, as her rage is fanned.
<wisesnake> I am not back.
<Briel> looks like it to me
<Briel> or are you breaking into Alea's office?
<wisesnake> Only because you block the way.
* Briel says it midly
* Briel smiles
<wisesnake> Yes. I am breaking into Alea's office.
* Briel shrugs
<Briel> good
* Linn is wishing that Veraik would keep his tentacles sheathed.
<Briel> be sure to take her art too...after you let someone here help you
<Veriak> I see. In that case, [using a different tentacle to open drawer and another to pull out another form] I will get this sent to the Tecton right away.
<wisesnake> No.
<Briel> seems we're at a standoff, then...
* Briel reaches out again with her field to touch Snake's
* Briel trying to manipulate it
* Veriak looks at the first form. Is this your full name?
* wisesnake delivers a slam that stuns Briel
* Briel falls back a bit
* wisesnake shoves past Briael and unlocks the door
* Briel gasping
<Linn> Yes, it is.
* wisesnake yanks the door open and flees down the hallway
* Briel augments and grabs Snake's arm
<Briel> wait....
<Veriak> Very good. [makes a notation with the pen in the tentacle.
* Linn fixes her eyes on Veraik's face to avoid the sight of the tentacles.
* wisesnake wrenches her arm out of Briael's once again
* Alea notes Linn's gaze and wonders if today's lesson helped her out at all
* Briel still gasping, grabs out for Snake
<Briel> Stop and talk
<Briel> just talk
<wisesnake> Get your hands off me! [panting; somewhere between rage and panic]
<Veriak> And the school name is....[stretching out tentacle dramatically before writing] the General Dermott.
* Briel wraps tentacle around Snake's arm
<Veriak> Looks up and smiles.
<Briel> I can't do that...
<Briel> you go back out on those streets like this...we may not see you again
<Linn> Memorial elementary school.
* wisesnake locks her field against Briel's
* Veriak adds the rest of the name.
<wisesnake> That's the idea, you fool. Now get your hands off.
* Linn 's stomach clenches at the sight of the writhing tentacles.
* Briel shifts her field, trying tohold onto Snake with her tentacles
<Briel> NO
<Veraik> Good. Can you come back say.....[looks at schedule] the day after tomorrow at 2pm?
<Briel> I'm not going to let you go back out there...you don't care...but too many people here depend on you
<Veriak> and perhaps I will have some news for you as well as continuing what we have begun.
<Briel> you're going to have to hurt me and I am betting as a Farris channel, you won't do that...now come on...come to a transfer room...let me help you
<wisesnake> You're wrong. Dead wrong.
* Briel hesitates at her words then shakes her head
* wisesnake slams Briael again, this time hard
* Briel stiffens and falls back, releasing Snake
* wisesnake flees the Center
* Veriak waits with his tentacled pen poised over his schedule book.
<Linn> I have a faculty meeting then. Perhaps tomorrow?
* Veriak scribbles in Linn night. 2 o'clock, rught?
* Alea smiles at Linn, unable to believe she isn't objecting more
<Linn> Two is fine.
<Veriak> Very good. [holds our hand again to shake...tentacles sheathed.]
<Alea> thank you so much Linn for coming
* Linn hesitates, but good manners win out, and she cautiously reaches out to shake Veraik's hand.
* Briel moans
<Alea> Thank you so much, Linn. I'm looking foward to seeing you tomorrow
* Veriak smiles. Yes, thank you for coming by. Your effort is appreciated.
* Linn wonders why Alea keeps thanking her, but has stopped being surprised by the strange manners of Sime Center personnel.
* Linn decides that the Tecton must be pretty desperate to spend so much time planning a simple statement of support at a school board meeting.
* Alea goes to the door and flips the lock
<Alea> tomorrow then
* Linn is too busy smiling politely at Veraik to see Alea unlocking the door behind her back.
<Linn> Yes, tomorrow.
<Veriak> Yes. Tomorrow. I look forward to it.
* Veriak smiles pleasantly.
* Alea opens the door
* Linn goes through the door, eager to leave the tentacle chair and Veraik's too-active tentacles behind.
* Veriak takes a breathe then hears a noise coming from the lobby.
* Briel moaning low.
* Veriak augments past Linn to the lobby.
* Veriak zlins and see Briel laying on the floor.
* Veriak projects Alea's Donor nager as he remembered from Tarsh's transfer.
* Veriak yells at Alea to get Linn away!!!
* Linn hesitates, than follows Veraik into the lobby to see what is going on.
* Alea grabs at Alea
* Alea grabs at Linn when she realizes she has grabbed her own arm
* Linn sees Briel moaning on the lobby floor.
* Briel stiffens
* Linn also sees Briel's tentacles, and abruptly reconsiders closer personal investigation.
* Veriak zlins the channel's chaotic systems and realizes that Briel is in grave danger.
* Alea grabs Linn's arm and pulls her back
<Linn> What's wrong with her?
* Alea shakes her head
<Alea> attacked?
<Alea> I'm not sure, let hajene Veraik handle it. Stay here
* Alea let's go of Linn and moves up behind Veraik
* Linn prudently stays where she is.
<Veriak> Alea! Briel needs a shunt and only a powerful Farris nager will do.
* Alea slips down beside Veraik
* Veriak augments to Linn and takes over Alea's position of covering what is happening from Linn.
* Alea leans forward, sliding her hands up Briel's arms
* Linn yelps at Veraik's sudden movement.
<Veriak> Linn...everything will be all right. Briel is hurt very badly and Alea is going to help her.
* Briel hesisates, stiffening then sensing the field, her tentacles lash out
<Veriak> Please come back to the office and I will help you to calm down.
* Alea leans forward allowing her field to help Briel
* Linn jumps at the sight of Brial's tentacles grabbing Alea.
<Veriak> Linn! Focus on me.
* Briel fields shift and she stiffens
* Linn looks at Veraik, confused.
<Veriak> Please. Nothing is going to happen. Alea is going to take care of it.
<Veriak> They will both be fine.
* Alea feels her reaction and projects to her helping her...
<Veriak> ~~~ Veraik has his tentacles sheathed ~~~~
* Briel performs the internal shunt
* Briel shuddering, feeling the pain in every part of her body
* Linn thinks that quite a bit seems to be happening.
* Alea holds onto her, waiting, not moving, assiting as she can...
* Briel holds onto her nager for life....still shuddering
<Alea> it's okay, hajene [whispers, backing it up with her nager]
* Linn feels a horrified sympathy for Alea, too scared by the tentacles grabbing her to even struggle.
<Alea> everything will be fine
* Briel slowly responds, her systems calming
* Alea leans back a bit and looks at Veraik
<Veriak> Linn [whispers] Alea is saving Briel's life. Do you see? A Gen... helping... holding... caring... for a Sime who so desperately needs her.
* Briel whimpers
* Briel still holding onto Alea
* Veriak nods to Alea with Briel is recovering and that she did good.
* Alea waits for Briel to release her, making sure Briel knows she's not going to leave her
* Veriak zlins Alea and Briel.
* Briel slowly loosens her grip on Alea, shuddering, pain still obvious in her
* Veriak pats and rubs Linn's back. Isn't it beautiful? Sime and Gen working together.
* Alea carefully slides an arm around Briel and lifts her up a bit
* Briel moans, a tentacle going to her head, her other arm reaching out and a tentacle curling around Alea's arm
* Alea soothes her
<Veriak> Living together....helping each other whenever there is a requirement for one.
<Alea> I'm not going anywhere. Everything will be fine
* Linn edges away from Veraik.
* Veriak lets go of Linn and goes to Briel.
<Veriak> Briel? If you can talk, tell me what happened?
* Briel moans and allows a lateral to snake out and slip onto Alea's arm for a deeper contact
<Briel> shen, hajene....
* Linn trails after Veraik, concerned about Alea after seeing her handled so roughly by the Sime.
<Veriak> Who?
<Veriak> Who did it, Briel?
* Alea pushes gently at Briel's hair, allowing the contact, encouraging her with her nager
<Briel> she was in Alea's office...I only...she's in bad shape....I didn't want to let her go
* Briel moans again
<Briel> she was full of all kinds of medicines, had this look in her eye
<Veriak> Who Briel?
* Briel rubs again at her aching head
* Briel blinks at Veriak
<Veriak> Save your breath. Just tell me who?
<Briel> Snake
<Briel> didn't I say that?
* Briel shudders again
<Veriak> [voice flat] Snake.
* Linn sees the lateral touching Alea's arm and stares, wide-eyed.
* Alea leans a bit closer
* Briel leans into Alea
* Veriak allows a tear to drop from his eye even though he is only four days from transfer.
<Briel> I tried to detain her
<Alea> she was here yesterday too, hajene
* Linn hears several repetitions of Snake's name, and wonders whether Veraik is going to call in Snake to treat this injured channel.
<Alea> raiding the medicine in a transfer room
* Veriak nods, unable to speak.
<Alea> I think...she's on a lot of medication....
* Veriak slightly augments to pick up Briel.
<Veriak> Just before he leaves, he sees Linn.
* Briel rests on Veraik
<Veriak> Linn. Please understand that this is not an everyday occurance.
<Veriak> I'm sorry to had to see all of this.
<Veriak> I hope you can come back to tomorrow at 2pm as planned.
* Linn is sorry, too, but reflects that such "unusual" happenings seem to happen just about every time she comes through the door.
* Alea looks down at Briel
* Alea keeps contact
<Veriak> [looks at Briel] I have to get Briel to a treatment room now.
* Veriak zlins Linn's fear.
<Linn> I will be here at two.
* Briel moans
* Veriak smiles, a very little smile. Good. See you then and thank you for saying you will return.
* Linn nods and heads towards the door, a little more quickly than strictly necessary.
* Veriak goes to a treatment room.
* Alea follows beside him
<Veriak> You were great Alea. You saved Briel's life.
* Alea thinks of what she did to Tarsh and only wishes that there was a level "good" in her life instead of ups and downs EVERY day
<Alea> if you say so, hajene
* Veriak zlins Alea and inwardly sighs.
* Alea divides her attention between Briel and Veraik
<Alea> should I get some fosebine, hajene?
* Briel tightens her grip on Alea
* Veriak lays Briel on the table. "Yes. please Alea.
* Alea smooth's back Briel's hair
<Veriak> Lay still Briel. You'll be fine now. We are here for you.
<Alea> I'll be right back, hon...I'm not leaving you
* Briel slowly releases her
<Veriak> Briel. I want to deep zlin you.
* Alea goes across and pours some fosebine into a glass
* Briel of course, hajene
* Veriak entwines tentacles then takes the 5th contact.
* Alea is careful to put the medicine back up and lock the cabinet with the keys she now keeps in her pocket
* Alea turns and carefully returns to the bedside, trying not to disturb veraik.
<Veriak> holds it while he zlins all of her systems including the dark place of her disjunction.
<Veriak> Finally, he releases her then adjust the ambient slightly for Briel's maximum comfort.
* Alea passes the glass to Veriak
* Veriak holds Briel's neck as she helps her to drink the triple dose.
* Briel grimaces but will be thankful for anything that will help the pain in her head and neck
* Briel sighs and lays back when she finishes
* Veriak realizes that the slight work he just did was not enough to help his entran but was just enough to cause him many more problems unless he did some true work.
<Veriak> Sleep, Briel. That is the best you can do.
* Briel 's eyes flutter
<Briel> I'm sorry, hajene, that I couldn't help her...
* Briel sighs as she goes to sleep
<Veriak> I know Briel. I know.
* Alea looks down in concern at briel
<Alea> is she going to be okay?
<Veriak> yes. she just requires rest.
<Alea> and what about Snake?
* Alea looks up seriously at Veriak...her eyes filled with pain
<Veriak> Without a word, Veriak slides a chair for himself and Alea close to the bed then slumps into one.
* Alea slips next to him and gently rubs his shoulders
* Veriak just looks at Alea but is unable to say anything.
* Alea nods
* Alea knows EXACTLY what he is feeling
<Veriak> Finally, he bows his head and simply encloses himself from the world.
* Alea lays her head over against his shoulder and sighs, planning to wait out the night if necessary wtih Veriak
* Veriak suppresses a foretelling cramp but says nothing.
* Veriak zlins his Donor and takes a small comfort from her being at his side with the promise of transfer.
Notes:
1) This would be cots set up in the church next door to the actual Sime Center. [return]
2) Okay. Since Verile referred to Linn as his "friend" in Episode #30, it's obvious that he has harbored the fondest possible hopes that they would meet again. [return]
3) Linn thinks she asked for help in dealing with the Eastcove school board. Alea and Veraik thought she was asking for help for her Simephobia. [return]
4) This is some artwork of Alea's that briefly graced the wall of Tormer's office. See previous episodes for the whole sordid tale. Wise Snake is probably stealing it in order to return it to Tormer as a way of currying favor. [return]