Sime~Gen Roleplaying on IRC: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #37: Simephobia and Simephilia (10/6/97)
Linn sees Snake off to Sime Territory in the morning, dressed in a borrowed (and far too large) sweater to hide her tentacles.
Alea comes walking into the Center...soaked and chilled to the bone from sitting out in the park on a bench all night
Linn then calls and arranges for the living room window to be replaced.
Briel goes to Veraik's office to finish up his paperwork since he has not awakened yet this morning
Linn then prepares to take care of some errands on her day off, before meeting Verile for lunch.
Briel smiles as she leaves Jon Drake upstairs sleeping
Briel thinks she'll have a bit of peace before too many people are here
Linn is about to walk out the door when her eye is caught by the cover of an historical biography she checked out from the library as part of her research on famous in-Territory personalities.
Tarsh walks into the lobby with a box of fosebine concentrate that just came in.
Alea walks across the lobby... dripping wet.
Tarsh: "Alea!"
Tarsh notices how wet she is. "Alea?"
Linn inspects the cover portrait more closely. It looks strangely familiar.
Alea heading to the stairs
Linn: Nah, couldn't be.
Alea glances up
Alea groans at being caught
Alea: hello Tarsh
Briel sets to her work
Alea tries to smile
Alea: yes?
Linn sets down the biography of Muryin Farris and heads for the Sime Center to try once more to ensure that Veraik's efforts to help don't cause more trouble than they avert.
Tarsh comes over to Alea. Why are you all wet?
Alea shrugs...
Alea: I...
Alea: well....I went for a walk
Tarsh takes her hand. "You're freezing? How long were you out there?"
Linn reaches the Sime Center and hesitates before going in.
Alea debates lying but knows better
Alea: just before midnight
Tarsh extends his laterals and makes contact to zlin her.
Linn reflects that each visit to this building seems to end in frustration, usually accompanied by FAR too many waving tentacles.
Linn comes into the lobby, looking around to locate any lurking Simes, and sees Tarsh apparently attacking Alea.
Tarsh sweeps Alea up in his arms and carries her up the stairs.
Briel zlins the lone person in the lobby and goes to see who it is
Linn lets out a horrified yelp, and backs towards the door, looking for the gun which would automatically be over the door in an out-T public institution.
Briel: Linn
Briel zlins her panic and wonders what set her off
Tarsh stops at Alea's door. You get in there and get in a hot shower, Right now!"
Tarsh: "I'll go get you some hot tea."
Alea nods...too cold to answer
Briel: come on in...
Tarsh comes back down the stairs in a hurry.
Alea , knees knocking... totters into the bathroom... strips off her skirt and top and steps into the shower... teeth chattering
Linn remembers that Briel is a channel, and doesn't actually bolt out the door.
Briel: Hajene Veraik is not up yet this morning...
Briel sheathes her tentacles and holds open the door
Alea gasps as the hot water hits her
Linn remembers the importance of her errand and forces herself through the door.
Briel: so, what can I help you with today, Linn
Briel pushes the door to and locks it
Briel leans against it waiting
Briel zlins Linn
Briel: what happened to your hand?
Alea braces her hands against the wall... allowing the water to sluice over her and warm her
Linn: I had an... unwelcome visitor last night.
Tarsh trots through the lobby heading for the cafeteria.
Linn: Resulting in a broken window.
Briel nods
Linn starts at the sight of Tarsh, but there's nowhere to run.
Briel: were you attacked?
Linn: Yes. With a brick.
Linn rubs the bruise on her arm where the brick hit her.
Briel nods again
Briel coolly
Briel: that's not exactly what I mean
Briel zlins her again
Briel: you're very low field
Briel: why don't we go to Veraik's office
Linn follows Briel to the office, wondering why everybody but Veraik seems to be using it these days.
Briel steps aside to allow her in and locks the door behind them
Alea steps, still trembling, from the shower and grabs a towel
Tarsh comes back through the lobby with two mugs of trin tea.
Briel: I haven't had a chance to talk with Veraik yet, Linn. He's not up this morning
Tarsh goes up the stairs.
Briel: he had transfer last night and is sleeping late
Briel goes over and sits down by Linn
Briel: however... if there is something else I can help you with....
Briel: but first... want to explain why you're so low field?
Linn realizes that the last time she saw Veraik, he must have been perilously close to hard need, and the thought makes her queasy.
Briel leans back at Linn's reactions
Tarsh comes into Alea's room and puts down the tea.
Briel wonders how Linn could be so low field if she is so scared of channels
Linn shrugs, not really intersted in discussing her private life with this disapproving near-stranger.
Linn: I had to donate -- to help my kids.
Briel wonders if she should test her theory on just how really terrified Linn is of channels
Alea sees the tea and smiles gratefully
Alea: thank you, Tarsh
Briel frowns
Briel: I see
Linn: I'm really concerned that Hajene Veraik will go ahead with that teaching award.
Alea goes over to her closet looking for something to wear
Briel: yes, of course
Briel: I haven't talked with him yet... however, I'm almost certain I can convince him not to... we don't want to hurt your career and if you feel this is detrimental then we won't
Briel: however.....
Tarsh takes the opportunity to admire Alea.
Briel: perhaps we could take this chance to give the award to the school instead....
Alea finds a robe and slips it on, her fingers still cool from her all night jaunt
Linn is appalled at the obvious ignorance displayed by this statement.
Briel: this would take the focus off you and put it on the school instead
Briel shrugs
Tarsh: "Now you sit down and drink your tea.
Briel: anyway, hajene will have to handle that
Alea turns and smiles at tarsh
Alea goes over... gets her tea and goes to sit down and drink it
Linn: I thought I'd made it clear that any indications that the Tecton approved of the Sime Center classes would practically guarantee that they get cancelled.
Briel stands up and walks behind Linn to rummage in the filing cabinet
Briel: well, yes
Briel: but this wouldn't be picking out the class exactly
Linn: It doesn't really matter whether the award comes to me or the school, since I'm the only one teaching such material.
Briel: it would be a general award for the school...
Briel sighs
Briel: yes, of course...
Briel: your class IS the only class teaching, isn't it
Linn: Which somehow is the only school around offering the class?
Alea: this is good... nice and warm... thank you, Tarsh
Briel: yes yes...
Linn: It wouldn't take Forrest five minutes to see through such a scheme.
Tarsh sits down and sips from the other mug.
Briel walks back over and leans over Linn's shoulder... dropping the file in front of her
Briel: here was hajene Veraik's idea...
Briel points to the papers with a tentacle... allowing her left hand to fall on Linn's right shoulder
Linn quickly scoots the chair to the side, so she can keep a close eye on Briel.
Alea sips her tea, enjoying the warmth it seems to restore to her body
Alea: I was stupid last night... to sit out all night like that I suppose
Briel notes her reaction, but keeps her hand on Linn's shoulder
Linn leans forward to inspect the folder's contents, trying to get out from under Briel's hand without being too rude about it.
Briel allows a tentacle to slip out and rest lightly next to her hand
Briel: see... right here....
Briel points
Tarsh: "yes you were. Did you think you could augment for heat?"
Briel: he had a four point plan in helping get this program off the ground...and getting you out of hot water
Briel: however... if the award isn't going to work
Linn jumps to her feet with a yelp.
Alea looks up at Tarsh and sighs
Alea: of course not, Tarsh
Alea: though sometimes I wish I could... [shivers thinking of how cold she had actually gotten before the shower]
Linn backs away a few feet, putting some distance between them.
Linn reflects that Snake, for all her deliberate spookiness, doesn't play this kind of game.
Briel jerks at Linn's reaction but stays calm
Tarsh: "Sitting out there all night in the cold and the rain? Why did you do that?"
Briel: I thought you said you donated
Alea shrugs
Linn: I have. Twice now.
Alea: contemplating things....
Briel: then will you mind telling me why these [fully extends all tentacles and laterals] scare you to death?
Tarsh: "The moon? The stars? Through the clouds?"
Briel retracts her laterals quickly fearing Linn might do something crazy
Alea: choices in life
Alea: it doesn't matter... really
Linn backs away even farther, glancing at the closed door and contemplating making a break before this crazy channel does something even worse.
Alea: it was stupid... I didn't realize it was so late until the sun came up
Briel: I'm not going to hurt you Linn...
Briel: if you've donated, you know that
Alea finishes her tea and stands... taking the mug over to the
desk before returning to sit down
Linn wonders if she could reach the door and get it open before
Briel could catch her, and decides that it is unlikely.
JonDrake descends the stairs, fresh after a shower and change of clothes.
Briel smiles...
Briel: you're right, Linn... you'd never make it to the door before I got to you
Briel: besides... even if you could... I always keep the door locked
Tarsh looks at Alea. "Well, ... please don't do that again."
Briel: all channels do
Alea: I won't
Linn 's gut starts churning, and her heart tries to depart for parts unknown -- and far away.
JonDrake wonders if there is any cheese left from the wee hours of the morning...
Briel smiles again and moves toward the door
Briel: but you don't have to worry... if you've donated... you know no matter what I do, I won't hurt you
Alea: so, what brings you in so early today Tarsh
Alea smiling brightly to change the subject
Briel: no matter what YOU do, I won't hurt you either
Tarsh jokes. "I was hoping to warm you up, but by a different method."
JonDrake makes himself some tea and toast with blackberry preserves.
Alea chuckles... her smile a bit strained as she wonders if she should mention her assignment last night
Alea she doesn't really want to go into that though... telling him why she stayed out all night
Linn isn't at ALL happy with this talk about doing thing.
Alea: I'll tell you what, Tarsh... if you want to hold me and warm me up I certainly wouldn't mind
Briel: why don't you sit back down, Linn...
JonDrake finishes the toast and goes out to the lobby with his tea to see where everyone is.
JonDrake goes to the desk to check the schedules.
Tarsh reaches out and takes Alea'shands in his.
Alea: thank you
Tarsh: "Well, anything to help, of course." [smiles]
Linn stares at Briel wide eyed, then cautiously resumes her seat, unwilling to displease the channel who apparently intends to hold her captive for some unknown reason.
Briel: now, tell me what we can do beside withdraw this award to help you out
Alea sighs
JonDrake sees that Briel is on site, so he begins his trek up the halls in search of her.
Alea: Veraik is doing better today. We had a good transfer last night
Alea thinking that he should be up and around soon
Linn: Actually, I've been making some arrangements of my own. With any luck, Forrest and his friend will soon be largely discredited.
Briel: really?
Briel: well, that should be interesting
Briel: what have you planned? I'd like to note it in the files
Linn decides not to tell this unsympathetic channel about her arrangements with Snake.
Tarsh: "So he's happy too then."
Alea thinks happy is an understatement
Alea: yeah
Alea: should be easier to work with this month
Linn: If it works, you'll be able to read all about it in the Eastcove Press-Tribune.
Alea: no running off like he has been
Briel frowns
Briel: then exactly why did you come here today, Linn... if you've gotten everything taken care of?
Briel thinks it must be for her Simephobia training and smiles
Tarsh: "Good I'll be able to get him to... never mind. Com'ere."
Alea wonders just what he wants Veraik to do...
Tarsh lifts her to her feet so he can hug her.
Alea sighs and melts against tarsh... absorbing the warmth
Briel stands and goes back around the desk right by Linn
Linn: I came because if Hajene Veraik hadn't gotten the message not to pursue that award --and he hasn't, apparently-- it would be a disaster.
JonDrake finds the one occupied room.
Briel zlins
Tarsh wraps his arms around Alea and holds her close.
Briel: just a minute
JonDrake debates whether to disturb her or not. He decides to knock lightly.
Briel goes to the door and unlocks it
Linn: My plan won't work if there's the wrong kind of publicity.
Briel: Jon
JonDrake: Good morning!
Briel grabs him by the arm and hauls him inside
JonDrake: Am I missing anything?
Briel slams the door
Briel sighs in relief
Linn wonders if she could make a break for the door while it's open, then decides that wouldn't work.
JonDrake gets serious and takes up position.
Briel: now, what were you saying Linn?
Briel turns back to her...
Briel: oh, yes, the award...
Briel: yes, yes... Veraik will be in any time... I'll see that's taken care of
Alea enjoys the warmth
Linn notices that Briel forgot to relock the door.
Briel goes back over to Linn
Briel: what about the order in your files?
Briel: about your Simephobia?
Tarsh: "I love you Alea. I love you both."
Alea allows tears of weariness to fall.
Alea: Oh, Tarsh...I love you too
Linn reflects that Briel said that last time, too.
Briel: I fail to see how you can be so terrifed of me yet still be able to donate.
Linn shakes her head in puzzlement.
Linn: I told you. I had to, to help my kids.
Briel reaches out and grasps her hand gently....
Briel: tell me... why does this terrify you....
JonDrake strengthens his support just in case.
Briel: how can you go somehwere and donate and come here and project such fear?
Alea runs her hands up and down his back, enjoying the warmth and safety in his embrace
Tarsh lays his cheek down on Alea's head and starts rubbing her back.
Linn keeps a sharp eye on Briel's wrist, not trusting her to keep her tentacles sheathed.
Briel: see what I mean!
JonDrake watches Linn, but this time he is even more watchful of Briel. He has learned that lesson...
Briel: look at the way you watch my tentacles
Briel allows her tentacles to slip out quickly and wrap around Linn's arm before slipping back in... all very very fast....
Linn jerks her hand, trying to free it.
Alea relaxes, enjoying the way her muslces ease
Linn: They always feel so... hungry!
Briel: hungry?
Briel looks astounded
Briel: my tentacles don't eat... believe me they're nothing more than an extra set of fingers
Briel reaches over to the desk and picks up three pieces of paper and beings to juggle with her tentacles
JonDrake is happy that tempers are still pretty even...
Briel tosses the paper at Jon
Briel: see?
Briel: just like hands
JonDrake barely catches the paper.
Briel: you require two hands to do that... with my tentacles... I don't
Briel finally releases her hand
Briel: it's time you get over your fear, Linn and realize no matter what you do... you are not going to goad me or Veraik or any of the Simes here into hurting you
Tarsh whispers. "You need to get some sleep don't you?"
Alea nods wearily against Tarsh's shoulder
Linn manages to hold her ground, but only because she knows that fleeing isn't a practical solution.
Alea: I'm sorry, Tarsh...after last night... I'm just so tired...
Alea mumbles it
Tarsh: "Ok. Lie down and I help you loosen up those muscles."
Linn: Oh? Your receptionist came pretty close to it a week ago.
Alea blinks up at him and smiles happily
Tarsh: "It's all right. We'll catch up later."
Alea readily climbs onto the bed to allow Tarsh to loosen up her cold and weary muscles
Briel shook her head
Briel: there is no one here who would dare attack a donor
Briel: you only startled him
Tarsh massages Alea until she goes to sleep, and then sits there watching her.
Briel: after all... he never did touch you....
Linn: Because Alea managed to stop him. If she hadn't come...
Briel sighs, thinking she'd rather not be having this conversation this close to need... she was going to have needmares for sure about killing.....
Briel zlins Linn
JonDrake remembers that day -- the day he just about collapsed trying to chase Linn down..
JonDrake moves a bit closer to Briel, increasing his support.
Briel: well, be that as it may... Veraik will deal with that
Linn begins to tremble, as usually happens when she thinks about Tarsh and what almost happened.
Briel: as I said... he'll be up and around today... if you want, why don't you come back tomorrow afternnon, late in the afternoon and he'll be able to see you
Linn: Very well. I can come after school.
Briel sighs
Briel: that's great
Briel: I'll make sure he gets all the paperwork on what we've discussed
Briel gets up and goes to the door... realizes she didn't lock it and looks back at Linn
Briel pulls it open
Linn: Thank you.
Briel: any time
JonDrake stays with Briel...
Briel backs closer to her Donor as she holds the door open
Linn leaves the room.
Briel: I cannot understand how she can donate and be fearful like that
Briel goes back to the desk and makes some notes
Linn debates the possibility of bringing along a friend as a witness the next time.
Briel: I want to find out who's taking her donations.
Briel looks up at Jon
Briel: you know anyone around we might could get to help us find out?
JonDrake: Hmm...
JonDrake: We lost a lot of our shadier contacts when we lost WiseSnake...
Linn leaves the Sime Center and heads for the docks and Verile.
Briel stiffens at the name
Briel hisses in anger
Briel: Snake
Briel: for her kids....
Briel: it's got to be Snake
Briel: but how could Snake.....she's not that good....
Briel wonders if maybe she is
Briel goes over and pulls Linn's file...reads down it
Briel: she took her first donation
JonDrake: That does seem likely.
<Briel> that's probably where the woman's main problems come from
<Briel> we're going to have to talk to Veraik about this
<JonDrake> I may still be able to find some contacts back at the docks...
<Briel> why don't you go on and do that
<Briel> I've got some things I have to do here in the office
<JonDrake> You'll be ok here by yourself?
<Briel> I doubt I'll be leaving the office
<Briel> you'll only be gone an hour... two at the most, right?
* JonDrake is a bit wary with all of the stressed lessons.
<Briel> no more than two hours
<JonDrake> Right. I'll make it quick.
<JonDrake> You can count on that.
* Briel nods
* JonDrake was about to joke about the time when he was accosted on the street and almost stripped, but thinks better of it.
* JonDrake is learning...
<JonDrake> Ok. If something comes up, be sure to send Tarsh or one of the other renSimes for me. [projects concern] Understand?
<Briel> I'm not a first year
* Briel sighs
<Briel> yes, yes...understood...
* JonDrake touches Briel lightly -- a promise to return -- then heads out.
* JonDrake walks down the street toward the nearly completed docks.
* Snotboy approaches the boat guy carrying a bushel of sweet corn
* Snotboy is a tall, gawky farmboy looking renSime
* boatguy is doing boat chores, and keeping a sharp eye out for customers.
<Snotboy> Hey... can I interest you in some sweet corn? I wanted to bring some fish back to the folks. Maybe we can cut a deal?
* boatguy is an athletic, middle-aged Gen.
* boatguy looks at Snotboy's tentacles.
<boatguy> Don't get many Simes buying fish. Usually I take it over to Eastcove.
<Snotboy> Oh, well, I'm the only one. My ma and pa and Joe and Neb and Dilly and Susy and Baby and G.G. and Tony are all Gens.
<Snotboy> Plus my ma was thinking of having the Bogans over for dinner... they're Gens too.
<Snotboy> And then there's the kids.... they eat plenty O fish
<boatguy> Well, if you're interested in fish, I got plenty.
* Snotboy grins.
<Snotboy> Great!
<boatguy> I've got tuna, halibut, and a few salmon.
* Snotboy plunks down the corn
<Snotboy> I have three bushels left from the market. It's real sweet... want to try some?
<Snotboy> How big are the salmon?
<boatguy> I got six pounds and up. But I don't have a use for three bushels of corn.
<Snotboy> You don't?
* Snotboy dismayed
<Snotboy> What can ya use?
<boatguy> If you don't have cash, I'd take rope, nets, or fishing line.
* Snotboy thinks
<Snotboy> Well maybe I'll keep asking up the road. Who knows, maybe I'll find someone who'll only trade me for rope.
* Snotboy hoists the corn back up
<boatguy> You do that. When you have cash, come see me again.
* Snotboy trudges back to his cart, disheartened
* boatguy shakes his head at the stupidity of farm yokels.
* wisesnake finishes a rousing morning of harassing nursing homes to drum up healing clients, realizes it's almost time for the appointment to meet the wanna-be-Donor, and hurries across town toward a certain cafe.
* NickR is already waiting in a private booth, sipping tea and munching a sandwich as he waits for what he hopes will be one of the more important encounters of his life.
* wisesnake skids to a stop in front of the "Skug Diner" and pauses to catch her breath, realizing she must be even more keyed up about this than she thought.
<wisesnake> Now, just take a deep breath. No sense in going in there all freaked out. [Snake coaches herself]
* wisesnake takes a few deep breaths
* NickR looks at the sailor type lunching with the attentive schoolmarm-type, and daydreams that he'll have someone to be that close to --someone with tentacles.
<wisesnake> Okay. Okay, now you're going to walk in there, and you're going to be so cool, you're not going to freak out or anything, it'll be slick. Just wait and see.
* wisesnake decides it's now or never and pushes her way suddenly in the front door.
* NickR looks impatiently at the door, wondering how someone with a perfect sense of time could be late.
* wisesnake zlins Linn and Verile are among the customers, nearly turns to leave, makes herself stop, swerves to avoid someone leaving who was confused by her maneuver, and generally looks kinda nervous
<wisesnake> [to self] stop it!
* NickR notices some confusion at the door.
<wisesnake> [to self] Just act cool, they probably won't even zlin you. See you. whatever.
* wisesnake stands there acting cool and looks for someone wearing a red hat, while zlinning for someone who would make a good Donor, and crossing her fingers that they will be the same person
<wisesnake> This is crazy. Who ever heard of a blind date for finding a Donor?
* NickR stretches, pulls off his red hat, sets it on the booth beside him, and runs his fingers over his hair to make sure it's properly neat.
* wisesnake 's eyes snap over in NickR's direction at the movement
* wisesnake zlins him from across the room
* NickR wonders what Snake will be like.
<wisesnake> Huh. Must be the one.
* wisesnake doesn't zlin anything that would automatically disqualify him, so she walks cautiously in his direction
* NickR looks back towards the door, and sees a small Sime with wild, fluffy black hair.
<NickR> Nah, couldn't be. Clean, and no grease in the hair.
* wisesnake zlins that NickR is looking/waiting for somebody, and decides it's definitely the right guy
* wisesnake slides into the half the booth opposite the Gen.
* NickR reconsiders that assesment as the Sime sits down across from him.
<NickR> Snake?
<wisesnake> Hey... sorry I'm late. Got hung up, uh, making charitable contributions to the Ivy Home.
* NickR is touched that Snake obviously went to unaccustomed trouble with her grooming just for him. At least if reports of her usual condition are accurate.
<NickR> I'm Nick Reckage.
<wisesnake> So, you want to be a Donor, Nick?
* NickR tries his most charming smile, already feeling himself begin to respond to Snake.
<NickR> More than anything.
* wisesnake appears to have flat out not noticed the smile.
* wisesnake zlins NickR as he speaks
<wisesnake> My... friend... said he didn't know much about you. I wasn't able to find out much more, except that you only came to Bender Cove three months ago.
<NickR> Yeah. My folks moved a lot, following the work. We even spent a few years across the Border.
<NickR> I guess I've kept up the habit since I grew up, trying to find something that's real.
* NickR hopes very strongly that this is it.
<NickR> What about you?
* wisesnake shrugs
<wisesnake> I was born here.
<wisesnake> I tried leaving once, it didn't work out.
* NickR looks sympathetic.
<wisesnake> Why do you want to be a Donor?
* NickR considers.
<NickR> I can't remember a time I wanted to be anything else, really. I used to haunt the libraries in each new town, trying to find any material, or even fiction, on the subject.
<wisesnake> [curious] Do you think you have what it takes to be a Donor?
<NickR> I was told so, when I established. The Tecton even sent me to a camp for a bit. But I left after a few weeks. Too many little rules: how to eat, how to dress...
<wisesnake> Ah.
<wisesnake> How about rules like where to stand and how to feel... you okay with those ones?
<NickR> Sure. It's different when there's a reason.
* wisesnake zlins NickR again, this time slowly
<wisesnake> What part of being a Donor attracts you to the idea of being one?
* NickR reaches a hand out invitingly.
<NickR> I want a channel to take care of.
* wisesnake looks at the hand thoughtfully
<wisesnake> Perhaps you'll get your chance.
<wisesnake> Tell me, do you know anything about me and what I do?
* NickR wishes he was as suave as the sailor type in the booth across the way. He doesn't seem to be having any trouble getting the girl across from HIM.
<NickR> I know you tried the Tecton and left it, it's rumored for reasons not unlike my own. I know you're trying to set up as an independent channel, and that you require a compatible Donor.
<NickR> I know I'm hoping I'll be able to be that Donor.
<wisesnake> You have never given transfer?
<NickR> Not yet. They told me I'd have to play by their rules, first.
<wisesnake> Given donation?
<NickR> Yeah. It helps pay the rent. Frustrating as hell.
<wisesnake> What else have you been doing for money?
* NickR shrugs.
* wisesnake waits
<NickR> What I can. Odd jobs -- I do a bit of carpentry here and there, and I can swing a paintbrush. Road work, waiting tables, whatever.
<NickR> A person who's willing to work can usually find something, if he's not too particular.
* wisesnake winces
<wisesnake> Yeah.
<NickR> You, too?
<wisesnake> Not along quite those same lines, but no, I haven't been picking and choosing of late.
* NickR 's sympathy increases.
<NickR> It can't be easy, setting up as an independent when the Tecton's just down the block.
<wisesnake> The Center here is not well established yet. It only opened three or four months ago.
<NickR> Yeah, I remember reading about it in the paper.
<NickR> That was just after I came here.
<wisesnake> Do you have any problem working with the Police? The Tecton? Politicians? Organized and petty criminals?
<NickR> I can get along with just about anybody, if I have to. Some people are more worth the bother than others.
<wisesnake> The majority of the work I do is considered illegal under Tecton law.
<wisesnake> Do you have a problem with that?
* NickR shakes his head.
<NickR> I've never seen why the Tecton should be so down on independents -- least, not competent ones.
<NickR> Word is you're competent.
* wisesnake shrugs, and somewhere deep down where she doesn't even know it, is flattered
<wisesnake> Well. Not much of anybody has had a chance to be choosy these days.
<NickR> Besides, if you decide I'm worth the trouble of training, I'll be just as much outside the law.
<wisesnake> True.
<wisesnake> So. Do you have family and friends you would want to spend time with?
* NickR shakes his head.
<wisesnake> Do you have an apartment?
<NickR> Not really. My parents are gone, and my sister's settled down with a husband and a house full of kids. She doesn't really have much interest in a vagabond little brother.
<NickR> As for friends, I've got a few, but I haven't seen too much of them lately.
<wisesnake> Yeah... where have you been staying?
<NickR> I've rented a room with three stevedores, down by the docks. Can't afford better.
<NickR> It's dry at least. When it's not raining.
* wisesnake grimaces
<wisesnake> Well, I've been asking a lot of questions... I would assume you have some for me. What can I tell you?
<NickR> Why did you leave the Tecton?
* wisesnake looks haunted
* NickR wants to erase that look from her face.
<wisesnake> I never belonged there. I started out as an independent and went to the Tecton because I thought I'd never make it past First Year on my own...
<wisesnake> And found it just as bad, or worse, than working independently.
* NickR makes an encouraging noise.
<wisesnake> The transfers weren't any better, for the most part.. and they refused to assign Donors to me, so I never had any support.
<NickR> And so you left?
<wisesnake> It's more complicated than that, but, essentially, yes.
<wisesnake> I didn't belong there.
<NickR> What are you doing now?
<wisesnake> You name it, if it involves selyn flow, I'm doing it.
<wisesnake> I told you I couldn't afford to be choosy.
* NickR waits for elaboration.
<wisesnake> I've been taking any kind of donation and transfer work I can get, mostly illegal. I've been doing a lot of healing work but it hasn't been enough to entirely prevent entran.
<wisesnake> Right now things are in flux because I only left the Tecton about three weeks ago and had to re-establish a network.
* wisesnake shrugs
<NickR> Where are you working from?
<wisesnake> I am trying to get businesses and service providers to sign up for long term plans, health care for their people, donations/transfers monthly, police protection, a whole package.
* Alea leaves Veraik's office and heads back to the deferment suite
<wisesnake> Since this has all happened so suddenly, most of those are still in the negotiation stages.
<wisesnake> [in answer to Nick's question] I do not have a walk-in situation. I have gone where the work is.
* NickR nods at this sensible solution.
<wisesnake> To be honest, I am not sure that having a central base of operations would be a good idea at this time. Perhaps later.
<NickR> So, what do you want from your Donor?
* Briel leaves Veraik's office and heads back to the deferment suite
* Briel sorts through the papers
<wisesnake> I am looking for someone who is willing to give up their previous life and spend time with me 24 hours a day. I am looking for someone who will support me in all channeling related functions while respecting my rights as a human being and keeping questions about my judgement to a minimum. And, of course, to provide transfers as required.
* Briel looking at the ones in her hands that require immediate attention
* NickR looks thoughtful.
* Briel stops at the door and zlins...
<NickR> That's a serious commitment you're asking for.
<wisesnake> Being a Donor is a serious commitment no matter who it is done for.
<NickR> Not something to enter into lightly.
<wisesnake> That is correct.
<wisesnake> Part of the point of the Donor camps is to weed out those who aren't committed enough to go through a bunch of unpleasantness in order to achieve it.
* Briel signals at the door
* Briel knows it's been more than two hours since her Donor disappeared and is not handling this well
* Veraik goes to door.
<NickR> Well, Snake, I've told you I didn't make it through the Tecton's program. But I don't mind hard work, or rules, if they have a reason.
* Briel zlins veraik
<NickR> Are you willing to work with a Donor who's just beginning?
* Veraik looks door at his nakedness then shuts the door.
<Veraik> One minute!!!
<NickR> At best, it'll be a while before I can help you the way you require.
* Briel sighs but glad that hajene Veraik will be in a better mood this month
* Veraik grabs clothes and dresses quickly.
* Briel taps the paper against her leg
* Briel looks through them again, fidgeting nervously
<Veraik> [opens door and slips out] Sorry.
* Briel nods brusquely
<wisesnake> Right now I have transfer guaranteed for two more months. You would not be required to attempt to serve me until three months from now. In the meantime I will be willing to train you so long as you continue to work your hardest and remain committed.
<Briel> no problem
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Briel .
<Veraik> Having a hard time this month. Isn't JonDrake working out?
<Briel> I suppose he'll be fine
<Briel> I've had worse
* Briel thinks that he is still untrained and worries a bit
<Briel> I have papers here that require your signature, hajene
* NickR 's interest increases at the prospect of having a chance at a real transfer at a definate time, not in the nebulous future when some Tecton burocrat decides he's ready.
<wisesnake> You should be warned, however, that there is a certain amount of risk involved in this plan.
<NickR> If you're willing to train me, I'm willing to learn.
<Briel> the top one is for the new supplies we've ordered, paint and essentials to fix the center after it's last...fiasco
* Veraik adjusts the ambient for Briel's comfort, masking his overly sated selyn systems.
<NickR> Oh? Have the police been after you? Or is it the Tecton?
<wisesnake> I meant personal risk to you.
<Briel> then there is the order to fix the sprinkler system so this problem doesn't happen again and then the reports Alea left for you
<Briel> oh, and Linn has come by twice for treatments
* Briel shudders at the thought of Linn
* Veraik takes reports. Thank you.
<Veraik> Oh. I forgot about her. I'll have to appologize to her.
<NickR> I know that Donors sometimes get injured, particularly in training.
<Briel> we have some problems in regards to her too
* Veraik zlins Briel. "What happened concerning you and Linn?"
* Briel runs a tentacle at the back of her neck
<Briel> what hasn't happened
* Briel mutters
<Veraik> Oh. Please tell me about them. [readjust fields]
<Briel> she burned herself yesterday in her fear
* Briel relaxes
<wisesnake> I'll do what I can to increase your selyn production but we will be very mismatched when your first time comes.
* Briel sighs
<Veraik> Burned? How?
<Briel> spilled her tea
<Veraik> Gens. [rubs tentacles acrossed eyes]
* Briel couldn't agree more
<Briel> it was minor
<Briel> I noticed, however, today when she came, someone had healed the burn
<Briel> and she'd given someone a donation
<Briel> she says she's simephobe but she's donating...
<wisesnake> You do understand what that means?
<Briel> I'm going to be having needmares about her for a month after these two encounters
<Veraik> [heavy sigh] It was probably Snake.
<Briel> yeah
<Briel> I came to the same conclusion
* Briel goes into Veraik's office and sits down
* Veraik quickly readjusts ambient to calm her.
* NickR nods seriously.
<NickR> How do you feel about that?
* Veraik sits at his desk and starts reading and signing the papers Briel gave him.
<Briel> she insists you withdraw the award for her school... for her
<Briel> She says she has something else in the works but wouldn't tell me what
<Veraik> Oh....[frowns]
<Veraik> Snake again.
<Briel> says it'll ruin her career
<wisesnake> I feel that I should probably be able to control enough to protect you the first time. It's the next times after that, that will be the most dangerous.
* Briel stands and paces to the books and begins to leaf through them
* Veraik signs the last paper. "I guess I handled it all wrong."
<Briel> I don't know what's the matter with her... she says she's simephobe... acts like I've got the plague when I'm near her... but she lets someone else heal her hand and take her transfer....
* Veraik adjusts the ambient to cover the fact that he thought about Alea and last night.
<NickR> Are you willing to risk it?
<wisesnake> Yes. But there is something else you should understand...
* Briel glances at Veraik... shakes her head and sighs again before beginning to pace
* Briel thinks there is nothing worse than a post channel near you when you're so close to need
* Veraik entwines tentacles. "I understand that Snake has something over her so Linn is donating to her."
* NickR waits with polite interest.
<Briel> she said she was doing it for the kids... for information
<wisesnake> There is a very high probability that you are not capable of growing enough to actually meet my capacity. I am still developing myself.
* Briel comes back around the chairs and lights in one
<Veraik> Yes. That is what I understood as well..
<Briel> I'm not sure I did the right thing today with her
<Briel> I wasn't thinking clearly with my Donor not here
* Veraik thinks of Alea's panties and bra then quickly readjusts the ambient so Briel doesn't zlin him in that state.
* wisesnake zlins NickR, trying to judge whether he picked up all the implications of her words
<Veraik> [perks up] Where was JonDrake?
* Briel glances at him
<Briel> I left him asleep
<Veraik> Oh well. Gens do require their sleep.
<NickR> We'll never know if I can develop the capacity until we try -- and if it doesn't work, you're the one who'll have to live with the consequences.
<Briel> you might want to know I went a bit over the line
<Briel> I actually grabbed her by the hand and wrapped my tentacles around it... for a split second
<Veraik> Oh What happened?
<Briel> she was a bit frightened I think, by the time she left
* Veraik sighs. Well, it might put her simephobe training back a little or it may help it, I'll probably know the next time I see her.
<wisesnake> I wanted to make sure you understood that I might end up being forced to train another, even if you are doing the best you possibly can.
* Briel thinks of jon out on the streets trying to find information on Linn and her donations and wondering why he's not back
<Briel> very well, hajene
* NickR shrugs.
<Veraik> Until your transfer, you should try to stay clear of all Gens unless you have your Donor or at least one of the other channels near you.
<Briel> of course, hajene
<NickR> That might happen anyway, even if we were matched in capacity.
* Briel stands thinking she'll go look for her Donor now down by the docks
<Briel> if that's all
<NickR> There's more to compatibility than a match in capacity.
* Veraik stands and stretching her tentacles. "I think I'll go to do a little work now. Would you like to join me?
<Briel> no, I should go find Jon
* wisesnake 's eyes narrow
* Alea stretches, waking up
* Alea notes Tarsh is gone and decides he must have gone to work
* Briel goes to the door and pauses
<Briel> hajene?
<Veraik> Very well. If you require help, I'll be there for you. [adds assurance to his nager]
<Veraik> yes
<Briel> you will be monitoring this transfer?
* Alea quickly dresses and heads downstairs, intending to talk to Tarsh about the previous night and get his opinion
<Veraik> Of course. Jon Drake is in training.
* Briel nods
* Briel goes out the door and out of the Sime Center
<wisesnake> Well. I think we'll save worrying about that particularly unlikely possibility until and unless it occurs.
* Alea comes down the stairs into the lobby
<NickR> So you'll take me on?
* Alea glances around, sees Tarsh is gone
* wisesnake was none too pleased by his previous comment, but doesn't see that there is much of a choice
* Veraik goes to the lobby. Hello, Alea. Glorious day, isn't it?
* Alea jumps, whirls around
<Alea> oh, hello, Veraik
<Alea> fine, just fine
<wisesnake> Yes. When can you have your affairs taken care of and be ready to begin?
* NickR grins broadly.
* Alea wonders if perhaps he had some errands to run and goes over to tarsh's desk to look for any notes
<Veraik> You seem distracted. Did you sleep well?
<NickR> I can get my stuff packed in an hour.
* Alea pauses and wonders how to answer that
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
<Alea> I got some sleep, hajene
<Veraik> What are you doing?
* wisesnake pulls a large wad of money out of her pocket
<Alea> oh, I was looking for um, Tarsh
<Alea> I'm sorry, did you require my help
* Alea goes over to Veraik's side
<Veraik> Oh! Today is his off day.
* Alea thought that he was in this morning and didn't remember him telling her he had a day off, but she doesn't argue
<Alea> I imagine I'll catch up with him later then
* Veraik zlins how tired Alea is. [takes hands] What happened to you?
<wisesnake> Here. Take this [counts off bills] and rent an apartment down on Vine or Peach, don't tell them you're living with somebody else.
* Alea shrugs
<Alea> I'm fine. really
<Alea> I just went for a walk and lost track of time
<NickR> Sure.
<Veraik> That's not how you zlin.
* NickR takes the money.
* Alea carefully guards her field
<wisesnake> Go hang out by the round fountain in Lower Garden... you know, the big one that's never running? this evening, and I will find you.
<Alea> I went for a walk last night, hajene, and got in early this morning about about eight
<Veraik> Come with me. [worried] You zlin as if you are coming down with a cold and that is not good for the baby.
<NickR> I'll be there.
* NickR has never been happier.
* Alea reluctantly follows, wondering why everyone is so concerned about her baby
<Veraik> Last NIGHT!
* wisesnake smiles tiredly, too cynical to get really excited until she starts seeing actual action out of the guy... but a little bit relieved anyway
* Briel wanders down the streets to the dock, feeling alone .. very alone
<wisesnake> Then I'll see you tonight.
* Alea jumps
<Alea> what?!
* Alea looks around, trying to figure out why Veraik suddenly sounds so upset
<NickR> Yes, tonight.
<Veraik> It was storming last night.
* Alea blushes
* NickR practially floats out the door.
<Alea> oh, well...yeah
<Alea> I like storms
* Veraik enters his office [which is fully equipment with medical supplies.]
* Briel trudges through the area, zlinning for JonDrake's nager
<Veraik> Sit.
* Briel sees the Skug Diner and wonders if perhaps he had to eat -- again
* Alea sits
* wisesnake watches NickR leave, then sits lost in thought, picking leftovers off Nick's plate and eating them absently
* Alea wraps her arms around herself, feeling a bit under the wearther
* Veraik starts the kettle to boil for tea then makes a dose of fosebine.
<Veraik> Here. Drink this
* Briel goes inside and looks around for Jon
* wisesnake zlins Briel entering and stiffens
* Alea reluctantly accepts it, staring morosely at the contents
* Linn comes out of her preoccupation as Verile departs for the men's room, and looks around at the other customers.
* wisesnake flattens her nager in an attempt to be inconspicuous but it's a bit late.
* Briel zlinning, stops when she zlins Snake
<Veraik> I... I'm sory about last night.
* Linn notices Snake and waves.
* Alea drinks the fosebine to keep from answering Veraik
* wisesnake 's eyes dart between Briel and Linn
* Briel sees Linn waving at Snake and her blood boils
* wisesnake grimaces, then bites the bullet and returns the wave
* Linn sees Biel and her blood freezes.
<wisesnake> This is going to be interesting [mutters to self]
<Veraik> I know that the assignment was unusual but I guess the Tecton learned about my post problems and decided to handle it for me.
* Linn wonders if Snake can protect her if Briel starts acting crazy again.
* Briel stalks over toward Linn, furious, and wanting to see what Linn does when she's stalked
<Alea> that's fine, hajene
<Alea> no problem
* wisesnake wonders if Briel has gone out of her skull; expected the Sime to attack her, not the innocent Linn
<Alea> I know my job
* wisesnake realizes there is something horribly wrong and jumps up to dash after Briel
* Briel advances slowly on Linn, allowing her tentacles to slip free of their sheaths
<Alea> please, don't worry about it
* Veraik smiles. "You were wonderful last night."
<Veraik> I haven't felt so good in a very long time.
* Alea smiles back and gets up to go over to the tea to check it
* wisesnake pushes in between Briel and Linn.
* Linn 's eyes bulge in horror, and she plasters herself against the booth seat.
<wisesnake> Hey, uh, hey, is there some kind of a problem here?
* Veraik augments to take the tea kettle and finish the process.
* Briel turns her eyes on Snake
<Briel> nothing I can't handle if you'll get out of the way
* Veraik hands Alea a steaming cup. "Now be careful."
* Alea takes the cup in shaking hands
<wisesnake> Are you sure you're completely disjuncted?
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea .
* Linn is relieved at Snake's interception.
<Alea> why does everyone always....YEOW
* Alea drops the tea in her lap
* Briel gaze shoots back to Linn, zlinning
<Briel> just as I thought
* Alea jumps up, pulling frantically at her skirt
<Briel> the little teacher is coming to you
* Veraik augments to Alea's side and brushes the hot tea off her arm with a dish cloth.
* wisesnake looks wary
<Briel> does she know what you did to me?
<wisesnake> And what if she is?
<Briel> does she understand that you almost killed me?
* Veraik pulls Alea's skirt off her.
<wisesnake> You mean like you almost just did to her?
<Veraik> [ripping it.]
<Briel> the little simephobe might change her tune of she knew that
<Briel> oh, no... I wanted to see if she'd run to you...
<Briel> she did, didn't she
<Alea> my Skirt!
* wisesnake looks annoyed
<wisesnake> You aren't making a bit of sense, do you know that?
* Linn looks back and forth as Snake and Briel argue, wishing she could understand the conversation.
<Briel> of course I am
<Briel> I questioned her today
<Briel> we're trying to get rid of this woman's simephobia
<wisesnake> By stalking her in a public place?
* Veraik takes Alea into his arms. I'm sorry. Everything will be fine. [calming] I'll heal you.
<Briel> an Impossible task if you're involved with her, I assure you
* Alea pushes back
<Alea> let me... water...
* Alea still burning
<wisesnake> The woman let me sleep in her bed last night, I think I have her confidence. [acidly]
<Veraik> What?
<Briel> I doubt that. You're blackmailing her, from what I hear
* wisesnake stares at Briel
* Veraik takes her to his office shower, turns on the cold water, and pushing her in.
* Alea thinks she doesn't require another shower
<Alea> just some cool water on her legs
* Briel steps back
* wisesnake steps out from between her and Linn, and says in English, "Well if you two have things to talk about, and I'm just in the way, then I have better things to do."
* Briel turns to Linn
<Briel> ask your favorite little channel here about how she almost killed me
<Briel> then if you want, come back and talk to me and I'll tell you the truth
* Briel turns and stalks out of the cafe
* Alea feels her skin cooling and turns off the water, soaked to the skin
* Linn turns to snake.
<Linn> What was that all about?
* Alea grabs a towel and starts drying herself off
<Veraik> He removes her wet blouse, panties, and bra.
<Veraik> then hands her a towel.
* wisesnake massages her forehead, and tries to ignore the curious stares from the other patrons
<wisesnake> I'm not sure.
* Alea snatches the towel
<Veraik> Going to a cabinet, he removes a Liorie tunic, 3 sizes to big for a Alea and gives it to her.
* Alea quickly wraps it around her wondering how she's going to get to her room...
* Alea takes the tunic
<Linn> The woman's insane. This morning, she...
<wisesnake> I don't have any idea why she was angry with you... I could swear she was in hunting mode for a moment there.
<wisesnake> She what?
<Veraik> Alea. Sit and relax on the transfer couch and I will heal your burns.
* Briel shaking, stalks back to the Center hoping her Donor is back
* Alea slips on the tunic and then does as Veraik asks
<Alea> I'm fine... just a bit, clumsy today
<Linn> I went to the Sime Center to make sure Hajene Veraik had gotten my message about not nominating me for that award.
* Veraik pushes the tunic up almost to her hip and positions his tentacles over the burns, then projects need.
* Alea wipes a hand over her face and rests back while Veraik heals her burns
<Veraik> That seems to be happening to you a lot lately. Want to talk about it?
<Linn> Briel said he wasn't available, but she could help me. She showed me into Hajene Veraik's office.
<Alea> what?
* wisesnake wishes Linn wouldn't spend quite so much time around the Sime Center.
<Alea> talk about what?
<wisesnake> Go on...
<Linn> She... locked the door, and then she started acting crazy, flicking her tentacles around, playing at stalking me. I'd swear she was doing it deliberately, to frighten me.
<Veraik> Capturing the burnt hand, he positions another set of tentacles near the burn areas.
<Linn> And all the time she was carrying on a conversation, pretending like nothing was happening.
* wisesnake looks rather alarmed
* Alea glances guiltily at her hand
<wisesnake> Well, it's possible.... [not quite doubtfully]
<Veraik> About why you have been so distracted since you have arrived at this Center.
* Alea guard goes instantly up
<Veraik> Veraik zlins Alea.
<Veraik> Oh. And what was that, Alea?
* Alea pulls at her hand to get it from Veraik
<Alea> what?
<Veraik> What are you not telling me?
* Veraik recaptures hand.
* Alea trembles, wondering if Jon Drake went to Veraik
<Alea> nothing
<Linn> Oh, I know it sounds ridiculous, but then she stopped pretending. Told me there was no way I could get out the door before she grabbed me, even if it weren't locked...
<Veraik> You zlin of a lie, Alea. Why?
<Alea> it's over, hajene, in the past. I'd rather not discuss it
<Linn> Her Donor arrived then, and she let me go not too long after that.
* Veraik zlins the truth and yet not the truth.
<Linn> The whole interview was so bizarre.
* wisesnake shakes her head
* Alea moves uncomfortably, trying to get away from Veraik's scrutiny
<wisesnake> I don't know what to tell you, Linn. If I had my selfish way I wouldn't let you go to the Center at all.
<Veraik> So....have you told Tarsh yet about last night.
* Alea swallows
<Alea> there's nothing to tell
<Veraik> You haven't
* Alea shrugs
<Alea> I was going to talk to him, tell him why I didn't stop by last night
<Veraik> Is that why you walked in the stormy weather?
* Alea doesn't answer
* Alea tries again to scoot away
* Veraik repositions tentacles over breast and back to heal her lungs.
* Veraik holds her in place.
* Alea feels panic building at his questioning...but thinks maybe Tarsh is the safer of two subjects so she relaxes a bit
<Linn> Believe me, I've been seriously considering whether it's worth the risk.
<Veraik> Your cold was trying to become pnuemonia. Lucky I caught it when I did.
<wisesnake> What are you going there for, so regularly, if I may ask?
<Alea> as you say, hajene
* Briel goes into the Center and straight upstairs to await her Donor
* Veraik positions tentacles at the sinus areas and projects need.
<Linn> I asked Hajene Veraik for help with the school board, like I told you.
<Veraik> For your child's sake Alea, you must take better care of yourself.
* Alea lays her head back and closes her eyes, allowing him to heal her, glad the questioning is over
* wisesnake shakes her head
* Alea nods
<wisesnake> Well, it's up to you.
<wisesnake> If there's ever anything I can do to help, let me know.
* Veraik releases her. "Go lay on your stomach on the couch so I can message your back, then I will be done."
<Linn> Just keep me informed about the kids.
<Alea> I'm fine, really
* Alea stands and moves toward the door
<Alea> I don't need my back rubbed. Tarsh did a fine job earlier
<Linn> And I'll let you know when the school board will be making its visit.
<Veraik> Alea!
* Alea jumps, wondering when channels started yelling
* Veraik augments to the door and locks it.
* Alea silently bemoans the fact that these doors all have locks
* wisesnake looks down, hurt by the mention of the information on the kids, not knowing why
<Veraik> This is part of your healing. It has nothing to do with sex, bed, or anything other thing you are thinking about.
* wisesnake realizes then that, of course, that information really is the only reason Linn has anything to do with her. That, and the school board problem.
* Alea stiffens thinking she just wanst to be away in case he starts asking her questions again
<Veraik> Go. [points tentacle]
* Alea bristles... but goes
<wisesnake> Sure.
<Linn> It's good to know that someone else is willing to concern themselves with the lost ones.
<Veraik> [underbreath] Gens.
* Alea flops down on the couch, face down
<wisesnake> You told Briael I *blackmailed* you?
<wisesnake> That was the word she used...
<Linn> What? Of course not.
* Veraik sits next to her and starts a methodical massage.
<wisesnake> Did you really think it was blackmail? I thought it was a trade. You were always free to learn the information yourself.
<wisesnake> You still are.
* Alea can't help but melt under the massage
<Veraik> Starting with the top of the skull and working his way down using all his tentacles to get to every place.
<Veraik> Kneading a bunched muscle in her back and working it gently out.
* Linn considers, wanting to be honest but hating the hurt-child look on Snake's face.
<Veraik> then proceeding down her spine and over her buttocks as if to wash all the stress through and out.
* wisesnake zlins Linn's struggle and realizes it must be true... Linn had not agreed to trade, but succumbed to a lose-lose deal against her will.
<Veraik> then the legs... one set of tentacles for each, rubbing and kneeding to the ankles and finally out the foot and toes to purge all of the impurities of her system.
<Linn> Well, you pointed out a week ago that everybody has a price. I wouldn't have considered donating, if you hadn't found my price.
* wisesnake 's shoulders fall
<Veraik> Finally, he puts her to sleep then found a blanket to cover her up.
<Linn> But that doesn't mean I didn't have a very good idea what I was agreeing to, or that I regret the bargain.
* wisesnake looks cynical
* Veraik grabs her clothes then slips out the door.
<Veraik> Finding the clothes, he then goes to her office and starts a search.
<Linn> The help you've provided has done more good than I'd thought it would.
<Veraik> He looks in her file cabinet through all the folders, slipping a letter or two into his pocket.
<wisesnake> It's a grim world to look forward to, when all the good one can do comes dressed in force and deceit.
<Veraik> Then he searches her desk, and all the furniture. [picks up a pen] Hey That's mine. [pockets it]
* Jirelle drops something incredibly heavy on the floor of her room
* Alea jerks
<Jirelle> [[[[[[[[>>>>>CRASH<<<<<<]]]]]
<Jirelle> Shen!
<Jirelle> Right over Veraik's office too...
<Jirelle> shen
* Alea looks around groggily
* Alea looks up, thinking it must have been jirelle again
<Linn> Deceit? I don't recall you deceiving me.
* Alea pushes herself up, sees the blanket
* Alea remembers the burns... realizes Veraik put her to sleep
* Alea gets up to go get her clothes
* Veraik finishes his search and leaves.
* Alea sees they're gone
<wisesnake> I don't think it matters if I have. I can't even tell the difference between truth and lie anymore.
* Alea rubs at her eyes, heading toward Veraik's door
* Alea pulls open the door and peeks out, unable to believe NO ONE is in the lobby
* Alea sighs in relief
* Veraik goes to Alea's bedroom and does a super quick check, thinking that she could be awake soon.
* Alea slips out into the lobby and dashes for the door
* Alea runs up the stairs and to her room
* Alea grabs the doorhandle
<Veraik> He finds three more strange but similar looking letters, pockets them and leaves.
* Alea pushes the door open
<Alea> Hajene!
* Alea eyes widen
<Alea> what are you doing here?
* Veraik augments past in a blur.
<Linn> Snake, most of the time, "the" truth doesn't exist. There are lots of truths, and all of them contradict each other. It makes life interesting.
* Alea staggers back falling agains thte wall
* Linn reaches out and hugs Snake.
* Alea goes into her room
* Alea strips off his shirt and drops it on the floor
* wisesnake is surprised, but can't deny that she likes it
* Veraik leaves the Center.
<Linn> Cheer up, Snake. Things will work out somehow.
* Alea searches, realizing she's out of bras and thinks she is going to have to find them
* wisesnake can't believe someone like Linn could still like someone as scummy as Snake
* Alea pulls out some clothes and slips into a fresh skirt and top
* Linn thinks that now that she's clean, Snake's looking almost respectable.
* Veraik goes back in, augments to his office, sets the locks for himself only then leaves the Center again
* Alea goes back downstairs, determined to find Veraik and what he was doing
* Alea finds his office locked
* Alea kicks the door in frustration, then grabs her toe
* Alea goes to Tarsh's desk and begins a methodical search
<Alea> If I were Tarsh, where would I put the extra keys
<Alea> of course, he has extra keys [she answers into air]
<Alea> he's too methodical not to
* Linn lets Snake go and looks at her closely.
* Veraik goes to the nearest place to buy clothing then goes to a public restroom to change clothes, putting his Liorie clothing in the bag.
* wisesnake is unnerved by her study and looks away
<Alea> let's see..."K" for keys?
* Alea looks in the cabinets
<Alea> shen
<Alea> too easy
<Alea> maybe his desk
* Alea looks through each drawer
<Alea> but he knows everyone would look there
<Linn> You know, Snake, if you cut your hair a bit, you'd look just like that portrait of Muryin Farris as a girl.
<Alea> behind the lockers... nah... I already found that hiding place
* wisesnake grimaces
* Alea looks under his chair
<Alea> not hidden there
<wisesnake> Don't get started on that Farris worship stuff. I don't think I can take that today.
* Alea looks around his small area, knowing they would have to be right here, somewehre
* Veraik walks to the river and pays to cross it then walks into the woods.
<Alea> they have got to be in his drawers or filing cabinets
<Veraik> After a few hours, he sits down and reads the letters.
<Alea> and since he would think the desk would be the first place to look, they probably aren't there
* Alea gets back out and starts searching the cabinets again
<Linn> Snake, I have a degree in history as well as a teaching certificate. I know that famous people are just as human, just as prone to making mistakes, as you and me.
* Alea only takes one hour before she finds them...slipped in behind the tabs on the files alphabetically
<Alea> well, shen
* Alea slips the one for veraik's door out and goes over there
* Alea put it in the door and turns
<Alea> that shendoni fleckin channel! He set the locks so only a SIME can get in there
<wisesnake> Yeah... tell that to my mother.
* Alea kicks the door again
* Alea immediately grabs her foot
<Veraik> The first letter begins: From ONE who hears and has heard from you.............
* Alea hobbles over to Tarsh's desk and grabs his chair and starts pulling it outside
<Linn> Your mother?
* Alea grunts, hobbling and trying to get the chair around tohis window
* wisesnake looks at Linn, a peculiar bright/bitter look.
* Alea nods politely to all the renSImes coming in and going out for donations
* Alea smiles at all the gens
* Alea keeps pulling on the chair the entire time
<wisesnake> My mother worshiped Farris, and look at what it brought her.
* Veraik pulls out another letter.
* Alea gets it around to his window and pulls it through the mud to the edge of the window, ignoring the trin bushes she squishes in the process
* Alea climbs up on the chair, windmilling when it wobbles precariously
* Alea regains her balance
<Alea> take that, Veraik
* Linn notices Snake's peculiar mood, and finally puts two and two together.
<Linn> You?
<Alea> lock me out of your office when you've been snooping
* Alea reaches out and jerks on the window
* Alea -- the window doesn't budge
* Alea takes a deep breath, braces her feet and shoves again
* Alea the chair rolls one way and Alea goes the other -- into the Trin bushes
<Alea> Yeeooow!
* wisesnake is displeased by the turn the subject has taken, but since it's been broached, is determined to brave it through to the end.
* Alea -- five Simes come running
<wisesnake> Of course. I'm surprised there's anyone in town who hasn't figured it out by now, despite my best efforts.
* Veraik is sadden by reading all the letters.
* Alea painfully extracts herself, ignoring the looks of terror on the renSimes faces....
* Alea shrugs
<Alea> I was thinking about removing those
* Alea innocently pretends that Tarsh's chair isn't overturned in the mud three feet away
* Alea watches as one of the renSimes helps his buddy away -- the one that doesn't look too good
* Alea pulls the chair back over and climbs back up
* Alea decides the window must be swollen shut. The one last night opened fine. She takes off her shoe, ignoring all the scrapes and mud
* Alea taps lightly on the window
* Veraik augments into the woods, never thinking just moving, running, going.
* Alea pulls
<Alea> stupid, swollen window
<Linn> The grunge look helps to disguise it.
* Alea taps again, harder and then pulls again
* Alea frustrated, Alea growls
<Alea> shen you, Veraik.. what did you find of mine that you hid in your office!
* Alea rears back and hits the window... and it shatters
* wisesnake scowls
* Alea cuts her arm
<Alea> shen
* Alea five more Simes come running....
* Alea shrugs
<wisesnake> Well, since you have read your history books, and you know what a Farris is, then perhaps you will know a little more about what a giant pain in the ass it is to be me, and why I will do just about anything to get my tentacles on somebody.
* Alea one of the Simes removes her and opens the window for her.
<Alea> Locked?
<Alea> Well, obviously, Veraik forgot to leave it unlocked for me
* Alea smiles at the Sime who carefully lifts her in through the window, thinking Veraik will probably end up hearing all about this.
* Alea looks down at the small cuts from the window and sighs....
* Linn nods, remembering Snake's almost pathetic eagerness to heal her cut hand the night before.
* Alea begins searching his office... and after another hour decides he didn't hide anything in there.. he just locked the door
<Linn> It certainly does explain a lot.
* Alea goes to the window... picks up all the glass and tosses it out in the trin bushes, then climbs out, pulling the shade, hoping he won't notice the broken window
* wisesnake sighs
* Alea pulls Tarsh's chair back around the front... noting how there are no Simes there for Transfer -- which is very odd for this time of day -- and drags the chair back into the office
* Alea quickly tries to clean it up, then goes back up to her room to shower and change
<wisesnake> Look, I'm not any kind of company for you. I've got to go work anyway.
<Linn> And here comes my date. I'll be in touch.
* wisesnake leaves
<Verile> Linn, my dear...
* Linn smiles at Verile.
<Verile> I'm so terribly sorry I took so long.
* Verile smiles apologetically
<Verile> A gentleman had bought a brand new string of pearls for his wife and it broke and the pearls ran all over the floor... I helped him find them all.
<Verile> Then I had to wash up...
<Verile> I apologize.
<Linn> It's quite all right. The other patrons proved an interesting source of entertainment.
* Verile smiles, relieved she isn't angry
* Alea pulls out a long sleeve top to cover all of the cuts and bruises... rubbing a soothing cream on her arms first, hoping noone will notice her arms
<Linn> Shall we walk along the waterfront? I love to watch the big ships unload their cargos.
<Verile> So do I! That would be perfect.
* Verile smiles and offers Linn his arm
* Linn places her hand on Verile's (fortunately untentacled) arm, and they stroll out of the cafe.
Go on to Episode #38: Two-faced
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