Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #36: Reassignments (10/5/97)
* Rudysdad is sitting in his study late at night, in a bad mood because the little woman spent his beer money on clothes for the useless kid.
* Rudysdad is a very large Gen, with neatly barbered hair and a perpetual scowl.
* wisesnake slips down Chestnut street, keeping to the shadows and zlinning carefully for approaching Gens
* Rudysdad finds his study a bit stuffy, and opens the window to let in the breeze.
* wisesnake locates the house Linn described, and pauses underneath a large tree to study the structure and regroup
* wisesnake slips around the house, keeping out of sight, and finds the open window
* Rudysdad goes back to his desk and returns to balancing the checkbook, trying to see how he can afford his daily stop at the pub.
* wisesnake slides silently up to the window and ascertains whether there is a gun lying ready in the room, and if so, where it is
* Rudysdad decides that they don't really have to worry about saving for Rudy's future yet, since there's a one third chance that he won't be around to provide for.
* Rudysdad looks up at the shotgun hanging over the desk.
* wisesnake thinks the better of plan A, which had been to knock on the front door
* Rudysdad , having solved his budget problem, pulls out a hunting magazine and begins to read about the joys of stalking large ruminants.
* wisesnake carefully judges what movements would be required to get in the window and get her hands on the shotgun before the Gen does
* Rudysdad lifts down the shotgun and inspects it lovingly, thinking that there is more challenging game available than deer.
* wisesnake takes a deep breath and asks herself how managed to let herself get talked into something this crazy.
* wisesnake sighs, rolls down her sleeves so they cover the tentacles, and trudges around to the front of the house where she rings the doorbell
* Rudysdad sets the shotgun down on his desk and goes to the kitchen in search of his fourth beer of the evening.
* wisesnake waits
* rudysmom opens the door
<rudysmom> hello
* wisesnake smiles at Rudy's mom, trying to act like a Gen
* rudysmom glances back then back at Snake
<rudysmom> may I help you
<wisesnake> Why, hello, you must be Rudy's mother!
<wisesnake> I've heard so much about you.
<rudysmom> yes, yes I am
* rudysmom glances back toward where her husband is, keeping hold on the door
<rudysmom> just who are you?
* Rudysdad , still in the kitchen getting his beer, hears his wife conversing with a stranger.
<Rudysdad> Who's at the damn door?
<rudysmom> well?
* rudysmom cringes
<rudysmom> uh...
<rudysmom> who are you...
<rudysmom> look, now might not be a good time.
* wisesnake looks alarmed
<wisesnake> Oh, dear...
* Rudysdad opens the beer and takes a generous swig, then starts for the door.
* rudysmom glances back again and pushes the door to
<Rudysdad> I said, who's at the damn door?
<rudysmom> no one
* rudysmom leans against the door hoping the stranger doesn't knock again
<rudysmom> they had the wrong house
* rudysmom edges carefully toward the stairs...
* wisesnake hurries around the house to the window side, climbs in, picks up the gun, and augments it out the window and across the yard
<rudysmom> I'll just go upstairs... I need to get the laundry done
* Rudysdad glares at his wife suspiciously, then takes another swig of the beer.
<wisesnake> whoops... got a little carried away there
<wisesnake> [hopes she can find it later]
* wisesnake zlins hastily for more weapons, then hides behind the den door
<Rudysdad> I'll just bet you do. Wasting money on clothes all the time.
* rudysmom takes a deep breath... not meeting her husband's eyes
<rudysmom> he needed them
<Rudysdad> Like hell he did, worthless piece of trash.
* rudysmom cringes, not meeting her husband's eyes doesn't reply
<rudysmom> there'll be more money later... I'm sorry
* wisesnake is relieved to find no more guns, at least not in the den
* Rudysdad considers, and decides that the magazine is more entertaining than bullying his wife at the moment.
<Rudysdad> Oh, go on.
* rudysmom hurries up the stairs
* rudysmom looks out the window for the stranger....sees she's gone and wonders where she went...and just who she was
* Rudysdad heads back for his desk, a little unsteady on his feet.
* Rudy` is up in his room. He saw the Sime lady come up to the house, but remains silent.
* Rudysdad sits at his desk and picks up his magazine, grumbling about idiot women and useless kids.
* wisesnake pushes the Den door quietly shut.
* Rudysdad gradually realizes that something is wrong with his desk.
* Rudy` has learned to be very quiet.
* wisesnake zlins Rudy's dad's mood and physical condition.
* Rudysdad stares at it in a muddled fashion, and finally realizes the problem: there should be another beer on it.
* Rudysdad decides that he doesn't want to go back into the kitchen.
<Rudysdad> Hilde!
* rudysmom jumps, dropping the clothes she was gathering
<Rudysdad> Hilde, get down here and bring me a beer!
* Hildie turns and hurries back down the stairs
* wisesnake realizes this is going to be both much more tedious, and much more difficult, than she had feared.
* Rudy` winces at the sound of his Dad's scream.
<Rudysdad> Hilde, damn it, I mean now!
* Hildie pauses...turns to the kitchen and rushes in there to get a beer
* Hildie jerks open the refrigerator
* Hildie searchs and finds one more left
* Hildie rushes toward the kitchen door, drops it... grabs it up... hurries back to her husabnd
* wisesnake opens the door, takes the beer out of Hildie's hand, and closes the door in Hildie's face
* Hildie stares in utter shock
* wisesnake holds the door shut and waits for Rudy's dad to comprehend that there is somebody in the room with him, or at least that his beer has arrived.
* Rudysdad hears the door open and close.
<Rudysdad> It's about time! Put it on the desk.
<wisesnake> Let's talk, first.
* Rudysdad slowly comprehends that this is not Hildie, and turns to gape at Snake.
<Rudysdad> Who are you, and what are you doing in my house?
* Rudysdad scowls at the small, greasy-haired woman.
<Rudysdad> And with MY beer?
<wisesnake> Who am I?
* wisesnake laughs
* Rudysdad stands up and starts stalking Snake, looming over her in the way that always make Hildie cringe.
* wisesnake doesn't appear to be too impressed.
<wisesnake> Let's start with what I'm going in your house.
<Rudysdad> Yeah, who're you. I think I have a right to know. Are you Hildie's friend?
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> Yes and no.
<Rudysdad> Hildie! Did you invite this lady in? I've told you not to let anyone in.
* wisesnake keeps the door firmly wedged shut
* Hildie stands in front of the door, trying to decide if she should go back in or not
* Hildie pushes the door open but it doesn't open...
* Hildie terrified of what he's gonna do to her for not answering...she decides to go outside where she can't hear him
* Hildie figures if she can't hear him, maybe he'll believe her and won't beat the devil out of her for not answering
<Rudysdad> Hildie! I know you're out there. Get your ass in here right now!
* Hildie freezes at the front door....hesitates...then goes back to the door
* Hildie pushes on it
* wisesnake smiles pleasantly at Rudy's dad
<Hildie> it's, uh, locked, Carl
<wisesnake> I'm not going to let her in. This is between you and I.
* Hildie hears that voice and cringes, wondering how she got in the house
* Rudysdad finally realizes that the stranger is keeping his wife from obeying his commands.
<Rudysdad> Get away from that door!
* Hildie hurries up the stairs and gets Rudy
<wisesnake> I'm sorry, I can't do that. You and I have to talk.
* Hildie encourages him out the door to spend the night at a friend's house
* Rudysdad is starting to get really annoyed at this stranger.
* Hildie sneaks back to the door and goes outside
* Rudysdad stalks over to the stranger and looms over her, fists clenched and ready to strike.
* wisesnake studys Rudy's dad coolly.
<Rudysdad> Well, maybe I don't wanna talk, understand?
<wisesnake> I wouldn't try that if I were you.
<wisesnake> We really must talk. I came a long way to speak to you.
* Rudysdad snarls and swings with the lightning speed and strength that won him the regional boxing championship during high school.
* wisesnake augments to avoid his blow
* wisesnake continues the motion to help him careen rather forcefully into the wall
* Rudysdad shakes his head to clear it -- sort of -- turns, and attacks again, furious at Snake for dodging his first effort.
* wisesnake grimaces apologetically as she helps him trip and go flying across the room
* wisesnake shifts the beer to her other hand
* Rudysdad takes a little longer to get to his feet this time.
<wisesnake> Look, don't you think this is all kind of unnecessary?
<wisesnake> I just want to have a few words with you.
* Rudysdad decides that his fistwork is a little impaired tonight, and decides to use a more forceful argument. He goes to his desk for his gun, and then realizes it isn't there.
<Rudysdad> Hilde! Where's my shotgun?
<wisesnake> I don't think you're going to require that.
* Rudysdad realizes that even though the gun is missing, his half finished beer is right where it's supposed to be. He picks it up and takes a big swallow.
* Rudysdad finishes the beer in one more gulp and pegs the bottle at Snake.
* Rudysdad thinks this is enough physical effort for one evening and plops down in his desk chair to glare at Snake.
* wisesnake knocks the beer bottle aside before it can hit her, and sighs
<wisesnake> Are you done yet?
* Rudysdad turns the glare into a full-blown scowl.
<Rudysdad> So what're you doing here, anyway?
<wisesnake> I have to talk to you.
<Rudysdad> Talk about what? Women always want to talk. Can't leave a guy in peace.
* wisesnake looks amused
<wisesnake> Oh, I'll leave you in peace. When we're finished talking.
<Rudysdad> That's what they all say.
* Rudysdad continues to mutter drunkenly.
* wisesnake walks closer until she's standing over the drunken slob
<wisesnake> It's about your son.
<Rudysdad> Worthless piece of trash.
<wisesnake> Yes, well, about that. It seems a party in-Territory is interested in buying him up as slave labor and is offering a pretty price. Would you be willing to sign?
<Rudysdad> Been nothing but trouble since the day he was born.
* wisesnake shakes her head
* Rudysdad stops muttering as the word "price" percolates through his pickled brain.
<Rudysdad> Price? For the boy?
<wisesnake> Well, sure. Young boys are a valuable commodity these days.
<Rudysdad> Hmpf. Trouble, that's all the boy is.
<wisesnake> Great. Then you'll sign this release?
* wisesnake starts to pull a folded bundle of papers out of her pocket
<Rudysdad> Hildie keeps saying, gotta get clothes, gotta buy food--ain't got money to spend on it.
* wisesnake nods
<wisesnake> Yes, small boys require a remarkable amount of maintenance.
<Rudysdad> That's right, main-ten-ance.
* Rudysdad is beginning to think more charitably about this perceptive stranger.
<wisesnake> Well, sir, you could save a bundle by signing this paper right here. It releases you from legal guardianship... that is to say, responsibility under the law... for the boy, forever.
* Rudysdad blinks and peers at the paper.
<Rudysdad> Whash that?
<wisesnake> [it reads: TRANSFER OF GUARDIANSHIP]
<Rudysdad> Transfer? Isn't that what they do at that Sime Center?
<wisesnake> You see, there are people out there... investors, if you will... who feel that it is in their best interest to collect and preserve all small children they can find, in the beliefs that they will actually profit in the long run.
<wisesnake> Teachers, for example, and.... what?
<wisesnake> Transfer... well, not really.
<wisesnake> think of it more like a bank transaction. you know, "transfer of funds"
<Rudysdad> Bank? Funds?
<wisesnake> Of course, the amount of upkeep a small child requires can be a burden... a "transfer of guardianship" can bring about an astonishing renaissance in one's ledgerbooks.
<wisesnake> I don't want to dwell on that particular point, though... some people are a little sensitive when the subjects of children and lack-of-funds come up in the same sentence....
* Rudysdad is getting more and more confused.
<Rudysdad> Whadya want again?
<wisesnake> Oh! Here I am holding your beer. [hands it to Rudy's dad]
* Rudysdad opens the beer and takes a long swig to clear his head.
<wisesnake> Well, I told you, some people want to have your son.
<Rudysdad> Oh. They have him. Worthless piece of trash. Been trouble since the day he was born.
<wisesnake> They're willing to take on all his clothing and medical expenses, and take care of all his training and his upkeep.. of course, he'd have to go live with them, so you wouldn't see him that much...
<wisesnake> I hope that won't be a problem...
* Rudysdad decides that his head isn't clear enough and has some more beer.
<Rudysdad> You wanna take the kid?
<wisesnake> Yes. I want to take the kid, and I want you to sign this release, and then explain in your own words at the bottom how much you want to get rid of the kid.
* Rudysdad blinks at the papers again.
<wisesnake> You see, if you don't do it, what will happen is the authorities will come and try to force you to take the kid back.
* Rudysdad thinks he understands now.
<wisesnake> You might think you're free and clear, and maybe years later they'll come dragging him back and saying you owe all kinds of back expenses and the like.
<wisesnake> But you sign this, and explain how you feel, then there won't be any question.
<Rudysdad> The authorities want me to sign so my kid won't be trouble?
<wisesnake> Uh... no, that's not exactly it...
<Rudysdad> I don't want kid trouble.
* Rudysdad fumbles for a pen on his desk.
<wisesnake> Well this is more like a horse trade. You sign this, you won't ever see, hear, or think about the kid again.
* Rudysdad fumbles the pen, manages to retrieve it before it slips off of the desk onto the floor, and scribbles a wobbly signature on the appointed line.
<wisesnake> Now just add a few words at the bottom in your own words... how you feel about your kid and what you think he'll be good for, that kind of thing...
* Rudysdad considers a long moment, then scrawls "Good for nothing" at the bottom of the page.
<wisesnake> Oh, and if you really want to make a good impression, you might slide in something about having voted for Forrest during the last election... you DID vote for Forrest, didn't you?
<Rudysdad> Forrest?
<wisesnake> You don't follow the school board elections? I thought every parent was very interested in those.
<Rudysdad> Oh, Forrest. He's a good guy. Upholds tradition.
<Rudysdad> He says he knows how to make 'em behave right.
* Rudysdad considers a moment, the adds "Give him to Forrest" at the bottom of the page.
* wisesnake decides this guy is completely out of it
* wisesnake pulls a big wad of OT cash out of her pocket
* Rudysdad 's eyes light up at the sight.
<wisesnake> Let's see, small boy, age 7 or so, right? About 3000 is the usual commission
<wisesnake> Do you want me to arrange for this to be deposited into your account in small installments?
<Rudysdad> Nah. Give it to me. I want a beer.
* wisesnake hands him the wad
* Rudysdad loses all interest in Snake as he tries to count the money. This is quite a task in his current condition.
* wisesnake retreives the papers and carefully peels off Rudy's dad's copy. "Here you go."
* Rudysdad ignores the papers, and Snake, in his efforts to count the cash.
* wisesnake lays the paper on Rudy's dad's desk and backs away. The paper is clearly visible now, and the title says in its entirety: "LEGAL TRANSFER OF GUARDIANSHIP: CITIZENS' BUREAU OF ANTI-TECTON AFFAIRS"
* wisesnake climbs out the window and runs off down the road, trying to stay out of sight
* wisesnake pauses a moment to get oriented, then slinks through some close-packed blocks of residential neighborhood, finally ends up outside of what she is reasonably sure is Linn's house.
* wisesnake doubts Linn will be awake at this hour, but she didn't really have any choice but to come OT in the middle of the night, since she's not wearing retainers.
* wisesnake tries the front door
* Linn is wandering around her house, stopping occasionally to peer out the windows to inspect the sidewalk for strangers.
* Linn starts at the noise of the doorknob being tried, then hurries to the hall.
<Linn> Who's there?
<wisesnake> Snake.
<wisesnake> You said you wanted to hear about Rudy.
* Linn is relieved, and quickly unlocks the door.
<Linn> Come in, please.
* wisesnake slides into Linn's house
* Linn closes the door behind Snake and locks it.
* wisesnake is good and sweaty from the brisk getaway
<Linn> Come have a seat in the living room.
<wisesnake> Thanks.
* Linn shows Snake to the living room.
* wisesnake arranges herself on a loveseat
* wisesnake looks as out of place as a starved crow on a Persian's pillow.
<wisesnake> I met his father.
* wisesnake grimaces
* Linn sits down on an equally old, but not quite matching, upholstered chair. The rest of the furniture is similar: old, battered, but clean and well cared for.
* Linn chuckles.
<Linn> I see you did.
<wisesnake> I couldn't believe the guy actually signed Rudy up for the Young Anti-Tectonists League... isn't that almost like a brainwash camp?
<Linn> What?!
<wisesnake> Yeah, he had the paperwork lying on his desk when I talked to him. 1
<Linn> I knew the situation was serious, but I had no idea!
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> He seemed kind of incoherent. I asked him about Rudy and he seemed really down on the little guy.
<Linn> I don't think Rudy's ever heard a kind word from his father.
<wisesnake> I have to confess I am more than a little disturbed by the Young Anti-Tectonists thing.
<Linn> I can see why.
<wisesnake> Maybe your idea for trying to find him something In-Territory is a good idea after all.
* Linn nods.
<wisesnake> Hey, isn't one of the school board members involved with that group?
<Linn> Yes, Forrest. It's one of the less pleasant things about the man.
* Linn looks up as the phone rings.
<Linn> Excuse me.
* wisesnake looks paranoid
* wisesnake tries to hide it
* Linn picks up the phone and murmurs a greeting, then pales, puts the receiver down quietly, and returns to her chair.
<Linn> A wrong number.
* wisesnake zlins the lie
<wisesnake> Oh?
* wisesnake obviously knows it wasn't a wrong number
<Linn> Yes. [firmly] You were concerned about Forrest?
<wisesnake> [paranoid]
<wisesnake> I think I'd better go.
<Linn> Before you go, I have some good news from yesterday's school board meeting.
<wisesnake> Oh? [warily]
<Linn> Yes. This was only the first step -- an initial inquiry into what I've been teaching.
<Linn> My friends managed to deliver. They started a discussion of how these subjects were handled in Sime Territory.
<Linn> Forrest was being difficult, of course.
* wisesnake watches Linn, narrow-eyed
<Linn> He was going on and on about how changeover is changeover, wherever it takes place.
<Linn> Finally, the others called him on it. He glared back at them and offered a challenge.
<wisesnake> What sort of challenge?
<Linn> He said that they should all visit a Bender's Cove high school, and if the Simelovers were right, he'd personally donate to the nearest channel.
<Linn> It didn't take long for the others to go along with it.
* wisesnake looks incredulous
<wisesnake> This guy must be some kind of idiot.
<Linn> I won't argue with you.
<Linn> Anyway, all five board members will be visiting the high school in two days, hoping that there will be a changeover in progress. If it's handled as differently as advertised, all five are swearing that they'll donate.
<Linn> Who knows, with the reporters along, they might even do it.
<wisesnake> Boy, they sure were easy to push over. I was expecting them to have a little more spine.
<Linn> Oh, I doubt any of them think they'll have to go through with it. They're just grandstanding.
<wisesnake> Who is going to be handling the school board for you? Veraik? [jealous]
* Linn shrugs.
<Linn> I don't know. I haven't been able to see Veraik for several days. He always seems to be unavailable.
* wisesnake squirms
* wisesnake is very available
<wisesnake> Uh. yeah, well, you know, if you want anyone around just in case, well,
* Linn looks at Snake hesitantly.
<Linn> Would you? I'd hate for anything to go wrong.
<wisesnake> Sure.
* Linn frowns at a noise from the front yard, and goes to the window to see what caused it.
* wisesnake zlins, incredibly paranoid
<Linn> What was...
* Linn breaks off as a brick flies through the window, hitting her on one arm. She falls backwards onto the shattered glass.
* wisesnake dives behind a couch
* Linn looks through the window in shocked disbelief, as footsteps fade into the distance.
<Linn> I think whoever it was is gone.
* Linn slowly sits up.
* wisesnake tells herself it really isn't considered cowardly to dive behind the couch instead of protecting the Gen, when broken glass is involved... broken glass can be very dangerous.
* Linn illustrates that point by lifting up her right hand. It has a deep slash across the palm.
* wisesnake pokes her head up cautiously
* Linn stares at the cut, which is now starting to bleed nicely as she initial shock wears off.
* wisesnake remains frozen for a moment, then gets up and goes to Linn
* Linn looks up at snake.
<wisesnake> Here.
<Linn> I knew people were upset about the classes, but I didn't think they'd...
* wisesnake reaches for Linn's wrist.
* Linn starts shaking with reaction.
<wisesnake> Shhh.... don't worry about that now.
<wisesnake> Come over here.
* wisesnake supports Linn and leads her out of the living room into another room nearby, gets Linn to sit down on something.
* Linn is too dazed to protest.
* Briel goes down to dinner, muttering
<Briel> you just have to be so hungry, don't you Jon
* JonDrake is following.
* wisesnake stretches Linn's arm out to hold it under the tap of a sink that is near what Linn is sitting on
<JonDrake> Hey! I'm a Gen. And you could use some food as well.
<JonDrake> You're looking a bit thin, even for a Sime.
* Linn gasps as the water enters the cut, making it clean.
* Briel thinks she's only three days from transfer and doesn't want food... well, if he wasn't around, she wouldn't
* Briel goes into the kitchen and gets a cup of tea
* wisesnake zlins a couple of shards in there, debates trying to pull them out by hand, then chickens out and looks in a cabinet or two for some tweezers
* JonDrake projects hunger "Come on. You know you need it!"
* Alea thinks if he uses the word need one more times she's going to attack him and show him need
* JonDrake looks at the mere cup of tea and searches the fridge.
<Linn> What are you looking for?
<wisesnake> Tweezers... or foreceps... something to pull these shards out with.
<Linn> Top shelf.
<Alea> you should be asleep
* wisesnake locates them and closes the cabinet, returns to grip Linn's hand and turn it so the wound is exposed
<Briel> you should be asleep
<Briel> it is the middle of the night
<Briel> why you think I should eat in the middle of the night....
<JonDrake> Well, I couldn't sleep.
<JonDrake> We haven't been keeping regular hours.
* Briel thinks that's very funny...
* Briel though she doesn't laugh
* Linn looks at the slash, trying not to think about how much this is going to hurt.
* JonDrake sees the smirk.
<JonDrake> What?
<Briel> and I know...I haven't eaten all day today..don't remind me
* Briel hands are shaking as she lifts the cup
<JonDrake> I can't help but remind you.
* JonDrake feels his stomach growl...
* wisesnake braces Linn's hand (and her own gut) and begins a painstaking (and dealing) process of pulling out glass
* Linn 's hand jerks involuntarily as Snake removes a particularly nastly shard.
* JonDrake finds a collection of different cheeses.
* wisesnake 's tentacles instinctively stop the movement
* Briel sits her tea down and sits back, sighing
* JonDrake cuts the cheeses into small cubes and adds some fruit and crackers. A nice nibble plate.
<Briel> I'm due on shift in an hour...
* JonDrake sets the plate between them.
* JonDrake looks at his watch.
* Linn freezes at the distraction.
* Alea jumps out of the shower and changes into a fresh uniform before going back downstairs
* wisesnake finishes fishing out all the glass
* Linn sighs in relief when Snake sets down the torture instrument.
* Alea has been in with Veraik and wanted a quick break and left him sleeping
<JonDrake> So early? Oh, I'm still not used to Sime sleep patterns.
<JonDrake> So it's breakfast for you!
* JonDrake scoots the plate a little closer to Briel.
<JonDrake> So, how are you doing?
<Briel> fine
<JonDrake> I know I've made some mistakes....
* Briel picks up a piece of cheese and nibbles
<Briel> no, you'll be fine as soon as hajene Veraik starts your training
<JonDrake> Especially with you having to take on so much of the load here.
<Briel> Veraik's transfer is due soon...
* Veraik sits in on a couch staring and zlinning at the rustling trees, a sure sign of coming winter.
<Linn> Did you get them all?
* wisesnake zlins
<wisesnake> Yes
<Briel> then he'll be back to his duties
* Alea goes down the stairs, stopping at the desk to check on a few things
<Veraik> He battles his need with the knowledged that Alea is just in the shower.
* wisesnake turns Linn's hand over carefully, holding the wound closed with the fingers and tentacles of one hand, while she prepares to spread the laterals of the other over the wound.
* Briel drops the cheese and takes another sip of her tea
<Veraik> It won't be long. The promise still seemed like an eternty.
<JonDrake> That will make things easier on you, then.
* Alea finishes her duties and hurries back to Veraik
* Briel shrugs
<Briel> it's my job
* Linn looks away, trying not to let herself think about what Snake's doing.
* Briel zlins toward the hall...nods...seeing something jon can't
<JonDrake> I know, but still... No need to burn yourself out if you don't have to.
* Briel shoots Jon a look again at his poor simelan...
* wisesnake hesitates
* Alea pushes open the door and sees Veraik sitting on the couch
<wisesnake> Look, if it's so awful, I won't do it.
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
<Veraik> Hope
<wisesnake> Here, hold this shut with your other hand. I can call one of your... "doctors"... to sew it up or whatever they do.
* JonDrake gets up and casually moves to get himself some tea.
<Veraik> ~~~sadness~~~
* Alea goes over to Veraik and sits down next to him
<Alea> sorry I took so long, hajene
* Linn looks at Snake, seeing her barely concealed disappointment.
* Veraik continues to stare and zlin out the window.
<Linn> No, go ahead.
* JonDrake pours some tea uneventfully and returns to the table.
* Veraik shrugs.
* Briel sips her tea.
<Veraik> You wanted a shower. I can understand that.
<Briel> let's go to the donation room and work a bit, if you're ready
<Linn> I know you want to.
<JonDrake> Ok.
* Alea reaches out and touches Veraik's arm...concerned
<wisesnake> I do, but I also have to zlin you really not liking it and not wanting it.
<Alea> what is it?
* JonDrake picks up the cheese & fruit tray. Just in case.
* Veraik turns to face her and forces himself hypo.
<Veraik> **It** is nothing. Just need, I gues.
* Briel thinks she's going to be as round as an apple if she keeps this Donor
* Briel stands and goes down the hall
* JonDrake is starting to like the routine here.
* Alea nods and uses her field to reassure veraik she is there and ready to serve
<Veraik> I have another 15 minutes before my transfer.
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
* Alea nods
<Alea> I know hajene
<Alea> looks like it's getting colder out, doesn't it
* Veraik raises. "I'm going to take a quick shower. Will you stand right outside the door?" ~~~almost pleading~~~
* Linn tries to control her reaction to Snake's tentacles.
<Alea> of course I will, hajene
<Veraik> Yes. The winter is coming. There will be many sick Gens this year, I supposed. [down]
* JonDrake enters the room with Briel.
* JonDrake looks at the schedule for today.
* Briel goes in and picks up another piece of cheese to nibble at...moving closer ot his field
<JonDrake> We don't have any donations scheduled for a while [looks down the list] and it looks to be another light day.
* Briel rubs her tentacles
<JonDrake> You still have some time to relax. [looks over] Good, you're eating.
* JonDrake moves gently over to Briel.
* Briel glances down sees the chees in her hand and drops it
<JonDrake> Tentacles bothering you?
* Veraik walks to the shower and leaves the door open a couple of inches.
<JonDrake> Here, let me help.
* Alea goes to the shower and slips right up next to the door
* Briel glances up...
* JonDrake lightly touches Briel's arms
* JonDrake works to sooth the tension, moving gently down.
<Veraik> He quickly showers, shaves, and pulls on a Liorie uniform.
* wisesnake sighs and pulls Linn's hand back to her, begins the healing process
<Linn> Look, Snake, the sight of tentacles bothers me. It always has. That doesn't mean I prefer a surgeon to stitch me up.
* Alea stands there, continuing to be as reassuring as possible
* Briel smiles...
<Briel> thank you, Jon
<Veraik> Walking out without shoes. Veraik zlins the rich selyn source of Alea.
* JonDrake sees Briel relax again.
* JonDrake sees Briel's tentacles extend easily and caress his own arms.
<JonDrake> Good. Just relax.
<JonDrake> Let's just sit here like this for a while.
<Veraik> Five minutes. [barely breathing]
<Briel> it's just need
<Briel> and lack of work
<JonDrake> There is no clock.
* JonDrake is beginning to understand how naive that sounds, but it's a metaphor.
* Linn sneaks a look, then turns away so her reaction to the sight won't upset Snake any more.
* wisesnake loses herself in healing mode, barriering herself from the external world and drawing her attention down to the tiniest molecules of the injured hand
* Alea continues to watch Veraik concerned. This month has been hard and she's not sure about this transfer ... or what is really going on inside him
* JonDrake realizes that for a Sime, there is always a clock. He also realizes that he is at this moment the only thing that keeps that clock at bay for Briel. It is his job.
* Veraik puts on some slippers then goes to the transfer couch. "It is a good day to die. I love this weather."
* Briel relaxes for the first time and actually dozes
* Alea alarmed...stands and hurries over to Veraik
* JonDrake has gotten much better holding this position over the last few days.
<Alea> it is a good day to live too, hajene
* Veraik zlins Alea. She is his only world.
<Alea> you'll realize that in just a bit
* Linn looks at Snake head bent intently over her hand, and thinks it is almost reassuring despite the unwashed hair.
* JonDrake notices just how deep Briel's relaxation is. He lets her doze easily, supporting her field all the way.
* Veraik turns to the window again to watch the lightening and the promise of thunder on the air.
<Alea> Veraik....
* Alea hesitates
<Veraik> Turns to Alea.
* JonDrake feels a satisfying warmth, it feels good to be working like this.
<Alea> I want you to know that at first I wasn't happy here....
* JonDrake thinks "I guess this is what I've been searching for all these years."
* JonDrake wonders why he had to be born on the wrong side of the border.
* wisesnake becomes rather engrossed in her wanderings through the microscopic Eden of new growth... no concept of the passage of time whatsoever
* JonDrake is enjoying the warm hug of Briel's tentacles on his arm. Very nice.
<Alea> but I wanted to tell you...I'm...well, I'm glad I'm here now and serving you
<Veraik> I know. Alea. [pats leg] I know. [Looks to window]
* Alea slips down on the transfer couch by Veraik...engaging his field
* Briel allows her tentacles to unwrap so her Gen won't get tired... and just sits there, absorbing the sleepiness from him
* Linn sneaks another peek at her hand, and notices with interest that the cut is closing from the bottom up.
* JonDrake , in his relaxation, tries to imagine what it must be like to zlin, to see the fields around everyone.
* Veraik 's intil raises slowly.
* JonDrake is a little disappointed to feel the tentacles slide off his arms, and lets their hands drift down to their knees.
* Alea reaches out and slips her hands into Veraik's, staying perfectly relaxed...
* wisesnake forgets, for a time, that there is any other world but the one in which she's set her focus now... forgets about the fear, the hate, the neglect of the outer world.
<Veraik> ~~ selyur nager~~~
* JonDrake lets himself doze off as well.
* Alea works to dispel discomfort of need for veraik
* Linn watches the paranoia fade from Snake's face, to be replaced by interest, and decides that Snake wouldn't be a bad looking kid if she were happy--and clean.
<Veraik> [whispered] Alea?
<Alea> yes, hajene
* Veraik feels the seconds clicking down to the moment of his assignment time.
* JonDrake , though dozing, can still feel Briel's presence. Eventually, they both drift up at the same time.
* JonDrake motions.
<Briel> what?
* Veraik zlins Alea. A beautiful promise. Wonder. Loving. Glowing.
<JonDrake> Come on. Let's go back up stairs for a while. You'll be more comfortable.
* Briel shrugs, thinking her Gen sleeps less than she does
<Alea> soon, hajene
<Veraik> I'm...I'm glad you are at the Center Alea.
* Alea smiles, keeping her focus on Veraik
* Veraik offers arms in hopes that Alea will offer hers.
* Alea holds out her arms
* Veraik takes her arms and wraps tentacles lightly about her arms.
* JonDrake leads Briel up to her room and the two of them go back to sleep for a bit longer.
* wisesnake is so intensely into the work that she doesn't regain normal consciousness at all until she has finally done all that can be done for the injury.
* wisesnake blinks, goes duoconscious
* Veraik places laterals on her selyn-rich nerves.
* wisesnake lets go of Linn's hand
* Veraik zlins and holds her lightly. Total trust that she will not pull away.
* Linn looks at the pink line that remains, and shakes her head in amazement.
<Linn> Some day, you'll have to tell me how you do that.
* Alea smiles in anticipation
* Veraik only sees life and his need.
* Alea encourages with her field
* Veraik counts the last second.
* wisesnake leans against the sink, working her way through reaction alone
* Linn is concerned at Snake's obvious exhaustion.
<Linn> Are you all right?
<Veraik> Raising his intil to a screaming peak, Veraik leans over to touch Alea's lips.
* Alea thinks of the joy of giving
* Linn reaches out to place a sympathetic hand on Snake's shoulder.
* Veraik draws swiftly but feels Alea's dissatisfaction.
<wisesnake> It's... it's all right.
<wisesnake> I'm just tired... it's like any other kind of work.
<Veraik> Concentrating, Veraik realizes she needs a faster draw and he starts to draw selyn as fast as his systems will go.
<Linn> Why don't you lie down for a few minutes?
* wisesnake thinks that it is not like any other kind of work... it is a miracle, and few people understand how precious
* Linn slips an arm around Snake's shoulders and begins to lead her to the bedroom.
* Alea encourages veraik..
<wisesnake> Sure... okay...
* Veraik draws faster and faster
* wisesnake obeys Linn's pull
* Alea meets his need realizing a difference in the feel of giving
* Alea thinks of it as a.... need in her...
* Linn pulls back the log cabin quilt on the neatly made bed and urges Snake to lie down.
* Alea responds and begins to push her selyn faster, and faster into veraik...
* wisesnake collapses onto the bed
* Veraik 's systems respond to meet Alea's desire.
<Veraik> He fills his primary system then goes for second.
* Linn tucks Snake in carefully, and sits in the chair next to the bed.
<Linn> You just rest for a while.
* Alea continues to push selyn, totaly lost in the experience
<Veraik> His secondary system fills and and fills and fills
* Alea pushing it faster than she's experienced in two years... two long years.... pushing to the limit to give all the freedom and joy she has 2
* Veraik feels the joy and becomes joy as Alea pushes more selyn than he has ever experienced before.
* wisesnake knows there are a lot of things she should be very worried about right now, but somehow doesn't seem to have the strength
* Alea realizes it is okay to give with Veraik and releases herself to it...joyfully
<Veraik> Life becomes good and pure with the freedom and with life and with Alea.
* Linn notices Snake's restlessness, and reaches out to brush the cowlick of greasy hair back from her closed eyes.
* Alea backs off slowly
* Veraik excepts all of Alea and more in her giving.
<Linn> Just go to sleep for a few minutes, and then you'll be ready to face the world again.
* wisesnake goes still under Linn's touch
* wisesnake rests
* Linn picks up a stack of history quizzes and begins to absentmindedly grade them, her attention mostly on her sleeping guest.
* wisesnake snuggles closer to the edge of the bed Linn is nearest
<Veraik> Veraik accepts all of Alea and more in her giving.
<Veraik> Veraik starts to close his systems as the selyn slows and finally stops in a smooth ending. Perfect.
<Veraik> Veraik sits in total hypo with only the feel of smooth arms under his tentacles and laterals.
* Alea stays still, allowing Veraik to experience the world ...
* Alea wondering if she should go find Keli for Veraik
* Veraik withdraws his laterals then tentacles and finally opens his eyes to see the one he loves but dares not reveal how much he feels.
<Veraik> Thank you Alea. [holds back]
* Alea smiles at Veraik
* Alea thinks that is the best transfer she has had in ages...wonders why Veraik doesn't seem happy... wonders if she failed him by letting go
* Alea waits to be dismissed... suddenly unsure
* Veraik smiles and caresses a tentacle down Alea's face. "Tarsh is waiting on you." You ARE the best. That was close to first time for me. [smiles]
<Alea> of course, hajene
* Alea stands and goes to the door
* Veraik draws his legs up and stares out the window.
* Alea leaves
* Alea realizes she didn't offer him tea and feels guilty
* Alea goes back in
* Veraik watches the storm.
* Alea pauses to tell someone to send for keli
* Alea stops when she sees Veraik staring at the storm
* Alea quietly decides to fix him tea then leave
* Veraik turns Alea? [hope]
* Alea smiles
<Alea> yes, Veraik
* Alea puts on water to boil
<Veraik> You came back? [curious]
* Alea sets about preparing two cups of tea
* Veraik sees what she is doing and goes to take over.
<Veraik> I'll...I'll do it.
<Alea> no, that's fine. Really
<Alea> I'm getting better....
* Veraik takes down cups and the trin tea box.
* Veraik smiles "I'll say you are."
* Alea shrugs and goes over to sit down on the sofa
* Alea shakes her head and chuckles at Veraik's joke
<Veraik> How do you feel?
* Alea stares out the window pensively, wondering what Veraik sees in it
* Alea doesn't answer Veraik... since it is very obvious how she feels
* Veraik finishes the tea.
<Veraik> I promise not to keep you too long.
* Alea only nods
<Alea> you're not keeping me, hajene.
* Veraik hands her the cups and takes a sip of his own then joins her on the sofa.
<Veraik> I thought you were post enough for Tarsh. Was I wrong? [frown]
* Alea blushes
<Alea> no, hajene
<Alea> but I didn't want to leave you until Keli showed up
<Veraik> [tries to zlin but can't] Good. [said softly]
<Veraik> Keli?
<Veraik> Oh. [looks away]
* Alea finally takes a sip of her tea
* Veraik gets up and goes to the window.
* Alea is beginning to think Veraik is one of the best liars in the world... she decides perhaps she should just leave him alone since she must have screwed his transfer
<Alea> Keli will be here in a moment, hajene
* Alea stands...goes to the door
* Alea pauses to set her cup on the counter
<Veraik> Lightning crackles and thunder booms in a angry fit of spent up release.
<Veraik> Alea?
<Alea> if you should require someone to talk with... please feel free to call for me...
* Alea pauses
<Alea> yes?
* Linn hears the thunderstorm, and remembers the broken window in her living room.
* Linn hastens to the living room, stopping at the linen closet to retrieve an old shower curtain turned paint drop.
* wisesnake rolls over groggily, awakened from an enforced sleep by a sudden shift in the ambient
<Veraik> You made me very, very post. [smiles in understanding of her insercurity]
* Alea looks curiously, then nods
* Alea leaves... sees Keli coming and sighs in relief
<Veraik> Thank you.
* wisesnake tries to remember what happened... the brick, the healing, the sink, then Linn's bed.
* Linn smells the rain coming as she frantically tapes the former shower curtain across the broken window.
<Veraik> Alea. Please don't go.
* Alea pauses at the door, turns around and slips back inside in concern
* wisesnake crawls out of the bed and follows Linn's nager to the living room
<Alea> what is it, hajene....
<Veraik> I am weak, Alea. I know that I am but.... but....
<Veraik> And I'm selfish.
* Linn is standing on a chair, stretching to secure the top of the shower curtain securely.
* Alea shakes her head...going over to Veraik...
* Alea sits down and takes his hands
<Veraik> It's just that I.... [looks down and whispers] I want you...... Only you.
<Alea> no, veraik. You aren't. If you want to talk, then I'm here
* wisesnake thinks that looks awfully dangerous, what with all the broken glass still hanging from the window frame
* Veraik smiles. Talk...yes. of course.
* wisesnake stands back a prudent distance
* Alea blinks, certain she misunderstood what he meant
* Linn sticks on the last piece of taps and steps down from the chair.
<Linn> That should do it.
* Veraik looks to the window but feels Alea near.
* Alea trying to figure out Veraik's odd mood tonight... she hasn't fogotten his mention of dying just before transfer
* wisesnake notices the brick lying nearby... it has a piece of paper wrapped around it.
* Linn turns and sees Snake.
* wisesnake doesn't really want to risk her tentacles or zlin Linn getting cut again, so decides not to mention the paper.
<Linn> Up so soon? You didn't sleep long.
<wisesnake> You left.
* wisesnake doesn't realize this isn't a complete explanation from Linn's point of view
<Veraik> Turns to Alea. You are lovely, do you know that? More lovely than anyone that I know.
* Alea blinks in surprise
<Alea> why, why thank you, Veraik
* Alea blushes a bit
<Veraik> Help me Alea.
<Alea> uh, well, of course I'll help you Veraik
<Veraik> [whispers almost unhearable] Be with me.
* Linn is slightly confused.
* Alea slightly uncomfortable
<Alea> I'm here with you Veraik... just... rest
* Linn decides that it isn't important enough to pursue when there's a mess to clean. Besides, Snake looks much better.
<Veraik> [looks down] Yes... of course you are.
<Linn> There's a broom and dustpan in the hall closet, there. Would you get them for me?
* wisesnake spends a few minutes figuring out what closet Linn is talking about, then trying to guess which are the correct tools
* wisesnake brings back the approximate articles
* Alea slips down on the couch and stares out at the rain, thinking how much she loves the rain
<wisesnake> Are these them?
* Veraik joins her. It's so soothing to listen to the rain at night.
* Linn looks at the ash broom from her fireplace, and the old wastebasket with a few pieces of scrap paper still clinging to it.
<Linn> They'll do.
* Linn removes the paper from the wastebasket and begins to pick up the larger chunks of glass, placing them it carefully.
<wisesnake> It's too bad I'm here illegally, you could have used my evidence to help prove who did this.
* Alea sighs, thinking she might as well dismiss Keli since Veraik is going to need her to talk
* Alea goes to the door and dismisses Keli
* Linn glances at Snake.
* Alea goes back over and slips down by Veraik
* Veraik smiles dismissal.
* Alea waves nite to tarsh
<Linn> I didn't get a good look at the vandal. I certainly couldn't give a description good enough to catch him. I don't see that it would take both of us to convince the police that someone threw a brick through my window.
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> Well I got a perfectly clear zlin of her as she ran out of your yard, and I could probably draw her approximate escape route on a map...
* wisesnake would have said more, but then realizes convincing Linn would just mean a bunch of unpleasantness... like actually having to help out
<Linn> A clear zlin?
* Linn is wondering when this conversation stopped being held in English.
<wisesnake> [reluctantly] you know, like catching somebody red handed... seeing the culprit with your own eyes... only with my Sime senses instead of eyes.
* Linn thinks this over a minute.
<Linn> Do you mean that you could identify the culprit?
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> If I ever zlinned her again, yeah.
* Linn thinks some more as she starts to sweep the smaller glass shards into a neat pile.
<Linn> Well, I don't think the police would accept that sort of an identification. However, if you should happen to run across our vandal again, would you mind pointing her out to me? I like to know where the bricks are coming from, when they end up in my living room.
* Alea allows her eyes to drift as she waits for Veraik to get whatever it is off his chest
* wisesnake shrugs again, much more relieved than she cares to show.
<wisesnake> Sure, okay.
<Linn> Thank you.
* Linn puts a piece of the scrap paper down beside the pile of glass splinters and begins to sweep them onto the paper.
* Veraik finally turned to Alea.
* Alea 's eyes finally drop shut as she waits
* Alea , sensing movement, opens her eyes
* wisesnake watches nervously
<Alea> yes, hajene?
<Veraik> Alea. I... I don't know how to tell you this.
* Alea thinks they are finally going to get to the bottom of this
<Alea> just spit it right out.
<Alea> it can't be that bad
* Alea thinking if it was... he'd be going crazy right now if he was really post
<Veraik> I received it a week ago but it's hard because I know how you feel.
* Alea panics, thinking someone has found out she is a spy... was a spy
* Alea envisions being tossed out on the street in the rain
* Veraik pulls out a card from his pocket. "I have hoped I could handle this but...."
* Alea looks curiously at what he has
* Linn dumps the shards neatly into the wastebasket, and inspects the floor for any strays.
<Veraik> ~~~hands her a card with Post assignment. Alea to Veraik~~~~
* Alea gulps
<Linn> That should do it.
* Alea thinks of Tarsh, waiting....
* wisesnake goes over to Linn and hugs her
* Alea remembers last month and the disaster when she switched partners....
* Alea cuts a quick glance up at Veraik
<Veraik> I'm sorry. I should probably go to Keli but... I... I... don't want her. [looks down]
* Linn is a little surprised, but Snake's tentacles are retracted, so she wraps her arms around Snake and hugs back.
<Linn> It's been quite a night, hasn't it?
* Alea wants to yell at Veraik that this is unfair... but she's scared of this mood he's in
<Alea> I don't know what to say, hajene
<Veraik> [Gets up to stand by the window] You can go Alea. It is your choice. I'll understand. [tries to be noble but is hurting]
* Alea wants to pull her hair out.
* Alea stands and starts for the door
<wisesnake> Did I tell you I had to throw Rudy's father's shotgun out the window when he wasn't looking?
<wisesnake> And he wrestled me for a beer.
<Linn> He did?
* Alea pauses... the words about a good day to die coming back and the crazy melancholy mood he is in keeping her from leaving
* Linn is used to strange confidences from youngsters.
<wisesnake> He might never find the gun... I was a little bit nervous at the time and threw it really far.
* Alea , frustrated, thinks it must be her lot in life to be pulled into two pieces here at this center
<wisesnake> And as for the beer... I kind of forgot it was in my hand, while he kept attacking me... finally I just handed it back to him.
<Veraik> [In Veriak's records, it is that he is totally unstable during post without a good post partner]
<Linn> That was proably best.
* Alea 's head drops and she sighs... hoping Tarsh will understand why she is late tonight
* Linn isn't sure she wants to know any more about Snake's undoubtedly criminal evening.
* Veraik goes to the door. I'll leave. It will make it easier.
* Alea looks up and sighs
<Alea> no, Veraik
<Linn> Listen, here comes the rain.
* wisesnake zlins Linn's reaction and deflates
* Veraik stops.
<Alea> I'll stay
* Veraik turns and remains where he is.
* Alea simply stares at him
<Linn> You won't want to walk home in this. I've only got the one bed, but it's big enough for two. Why don't you stay the rest of the night, and go home in the morning?
<wisesnake> If I try to go home in daylight, I'm liable to get shot.
* wisesnake seems reluctant to leave, though
* Linn looks at Snake's obviously tentacled arms, with no retainers in sight.
<Linn> You could borrow a sweater to cover them.
* wisesnake shudders
<wisesnake> Thanks... I guess I'd better.
<Veraik> [A loud thunder clap] When Alea turns to look out the window, Veraik sets the lock using his tentacles.
* wisesnake jumps
<Veraik> Then he sets the privacy lock.
<Veraik> Alea. I've set the privacy lock. No one but the two of us will know.
* Alea nods
* Alea thinks he's crazy if he really believes that... everyone knows why the prvacy locks are used... especially after transfer... word will be all over the Center by the morning
* Veraik goes to her then takes her hand and gently leads her to the bed.
* Linn sees Snake's jumpiness and decides to try her mother's old remedy.
* Linn steers Snake into the bathroom and turns on the hot water in the tub.
<Veraik> It's a good thing we are in the deferment suite. "As far as anyone knows, we still haven't had transfer."
<Alea> of course, hajene
<Linn> Here, you're all tied up in knots. Get those dirty clothes off and hop into the tub, while I try to find a nightshirt that will fit you.
* Alea nervous, won't meet Veraik's eyes and starts releasing the buttons of her top
* wisesnake notes the introduction of water into the equation and begins to look quite alarmed
<wisesnake> hot water, no less.
<Linn> Of course.
* wisesnake stares at the water, feeling a indefinable dread
* Veraik brushes her hands aside and continues to unbutton the button as he speaks softly.
* Linn lays out a fluffy towel and a washrag.
<Veraik> You are so beautiful, Alea. So soft. So nice.
* Alea not sure what to do with her hands reaches up and unbuttons Veraik's shirt
* Veraik brushes his tentacles down her back and through her hair, caresses in gently circles.
* Veraik sighs at the feel of her hands.
<Linn> Hop in, now, and soak away that tension.
* Alea appreciates the caresses on hre back, thinking it is helping relieve the tension a bit
* wisesnake starts removing clothes with obvious reluctance
<Veraik> He removes her blouse then glides tentacles over the swell of her breast.
* Alea pulls in a shaky breath
* Linn watches until it appears that the process will continue, then departs to find the promised clothing.
* wisesnake finally finishes disrobing and is forced to confront the big tub of hot water
<Veraik> He continues to knead her back muscles as he feels her relax with each release of bunched tissue.
* Alea allows her head to fall forward so veraik can reach the muscles easier
* wisesnake seriously wonders what the point is of not walking home in the rain, but then deliberately getting all wet anyway
<Veraik> He leans down to kiss and caress her neck behind the ear, licking the area between kisses and nuzzles.
* wisesnake steps stiffly into the water, then grimaces and makes herself get down in and mostly submerged
* Alea jumps...then allows Veraik the caress
* wisesnake promply falls alseep in the heat
* Veraik continues the rub as she unsnaps the front clasp of her bra then lets the lacy object slide to the side and fall off the bed.
* Linn pokes her head in the bathroom, sees Snake about to go under, and reaches out to shake one thin shoulder.
* Alea reaches out and pushes at Veraik's shirt
<Linn> Snake, you can sleep when you're clean.
* wisesnake is startled
* wisesnake splashes into a more upright position
<wisesnake> This is downright dangerous.
<Veraik> His "hummmm" accompanied his smile as he pulled back her hair and kissed her hairline to circle her face.
<Linn> There's soap in the rack, and a bottle of shampoo behind you.
* Alea pauses to turn away, reach out and slip back the covers on the bed
* wisesnake takes the hint and lugubriously begins scrubbing
* Linn smiles at the small-child reluctance, and lays a soft old T-shirt on the side of the sink.
<Linn> Here, this shouldn't be too impossibly large.
* Veraik stands and reaches for Alea to first look at her topless beauty, standing only in a skirt.
* Alea reaches for the button of her skirt
<Veraik> He reaches out and unbuttons the skirts and allows it to falls to her feet, exposing her lacy panties.
* Alea glances up at Veraik, trying to judge his mood
* Veraik leans in to softly kiss her lips.
* Alea hesitates, then responds to Veraik's caress
<Veraik> [With each kiss, he deepens his breath in anticipation then finally probes into her mouth with his touch.]
* Alea settles her hands against his chest
* wisesnake finishes the rather difficult chore of washing up, and emerges from the tub looking as scrawny and upset as a recently bathed cat
* Linn wraps her in a fluffy towl, scrubbing her no longer greasy hair.
* Veraik continues the kiss as he caresses then lightly pinches her nipples.
* wisesnake 's hair goes crazy, no longer being held somewhat tame by the scum
* Alea responds, her head falling back slightly
<Veraik> Hands rubbing her back to bring her closer, Veraik hugs Alea, laying his head on her shoulder with a sigh.
* Alea slips her arms around him, holding him, trying to give veraik exactly what he needs
* Linn thinks there's something awfully familiar about that wild hair, but can't place the reference.
* Linn hands Snake the T-shirt.
* Alea kisses Veraik's neck, nipping lightly
* wisesnake pulls it on over her scrawny bod
* Alea nibbles her way to his ear, worrying it lightly with her teeth
* Veraik finally takes both sides of her panties and pulls them down as he kisses his way across her breast, her body, her belly button to nuzzle at
see note 3
* wisesnake pushes all the hair back with her fingers, but it soon wanders everywhere again, rendering eyesight less reliable than zlinning
* Linn 's mouth twitches at the sight of the wild hair, but she knows better than to suggest the simple remedy of a haircut.
* wisesnake tosses the hair back again with an appropriately arrogant head motion
* wisesnake looks distinctly annoyed by the disruption of her usual system
<Linn> Come, let's get to bed. Tomorrow and its problems will be here sonn enough.
* Linn leads the way back to the bedroom.
* wisesnake finds herself doing as Linn says once again
* Linn climbs into her accustomed side of the bed, leaving the other side with a freshly plumped pillow waiting in invitation.
* wisesnake climbs in
* Linn reaches and turns off the lamp.
<Linn> Goodnight, Snake.
* wisesnake feels Linn's field only inches away, and edges in that direction
* Linn promptly falls asleep, as Gens are wont to do.
* wisesnake waits to make sure Linn is really asleep, then presses up against her and sighs, set to wait for morning.
Notes:
1) Well... at least, the paperwork was lying on his desk by the time Snake got DONE talking to him.... [return]
2) It has been established that Alea has not been given to high order channels as much as she should, due to her record of flakiness. However, it is not literally true that this is the fastest transfer she has had in two years... she has recently had a transfer with Snake, a Farris. [return]
3) The Alea and Veraik portion of this log is not shown in its entirety. The complete version has been stored in a safe place and may one day surface as one of those "lost episodes", but until then... sorry. [return]
Go on to Episode #37: Simephobia and Simephilia
Return to the Index of Episodes