Sime/Gen Roleplaying: Bender Cove Township Scenario
Episode #154: Strange Assignments (2/8/98)
Nemip and Callin wander into the Sime Center.
Alea comes down the hall into the lobby
Alea is no longer using her crutches and walking very carefully
Alea is wearing a half-cast that a channel put on for her
Alea sees Nemip and Callin
<Alea> May I help you?
Nemip and Callin are of that critical age where Anne McCaffrey is interesting, but our favorites remain uninteresting.
Nemip pulls out a dog-eared spiral notebook.
Alea smiles at the young ones.
Callin looks at Alea's cast, wide-eyed.
<Nemip> Err...
<Alea> Yes?
Callin nudges Nemip
<Alea> My, a spiral notebook. You must be here for information.
<Nemip> Umm, yes. We go Eastcove High. We're on the staff for the school paper.
<Alea> Oh my. How very interesting. I'm Alea Farris. How can I help you?
<Nemip> We thought, with Faith Day coming up and all, we should maybe, like, do an article or something.
Callin nods emphatically.
<Alea> Would you perhaps like to talk to a channel as well?
<Alea> Why don't you follow me.
Turrie is in her office completing the never ending paperwork
Callin and Nemip obviously hadn't planned this far ahead.
Alea starts toward the conference room, motioning them to follow
Nemip and his colleague are of the intrepid school of reporters that ferrets out all peccadillos of public officials, so they bravely go where no freshman reporter has gone before.
Alea leads them to the conference room, sending clerk for refreshments.
Callin gazes around the conference room, a bit disappointed by the lack of exotic stuff.
Callin thinks this conference room might as well be the one at the school.
Alea signals at Turrie's door
Nemip dutifully takes notes on the boring room for "setting".
<Turrie> Come
Alea pushes open the door.
Turrie stands politely "Alea, what a pleasant surprise"
<Alea> Turrie. Briel is busy and Veraik isn't here. We have some children from the school who want to do an interview.
<Alea> This is a normal occurrence. Perhaps you'd like to talk to them?
Alea smiles
<Turrie> Certainly Alea
<Alea> We normally present a united front, so to speak, during these things. So, if you would like, I'll be glad to act as your Donor during the meeting.
Nemip thinks that Bender Cove looked a lot more exotic than the Sime Center itself.
<Alea> They're in the conference room.
Alea turns and starts that way.
<Turrie> Thank you Alea - I appreciate the chance to work with you in any way
Turrie follows
<Turrie> How is your leg - I see the cast has been replaced
<Alea> It's doing better.
<Alea> I'm at least walking on it now
<Alea> without the crutches.
Turrie opens the conference room door to allow Alea to enter first
Alea enters
Nemip sees Turrie's tentacles and thinks that this is much better.
Alea moves to back up Turrie
Turrie smiles at the two. "Hello, I believe you are from the newspaper?"
Nemip has visions of being elected "best reporter" in the yearbook.
Callin sees that Nemip is dreaming again.
<Callin> Yes. We want to do a piece on Faith Day for the school paper.
Turrie notices that Callin, at least, has Established and wonders if she knows
Alea hears the clerk at the door and accepts the cookies and tea from the clerk.
Alea takes it over and places it on the table, pouring four cups and then seating herself.
Turrie indicates that the students should sit as well and takes a seat herself
<Turrie> Tell me what you already know of Faith Day and of donating
Callin murmurs thanks as she accepts a cup.
Turrie casually zlins Nemip a little more closely, wishing she could get a full contact examination
<Nemip> Well, we know what's in the school books.
<Nemip> About how New Washington formed an alliance with the Sime government to wipe out a huge Raider band. 1
Alea nods, wishing Tamlen was around to give them a first hand view of that.
<Turrie> So you know the history - what would you like us to tell you for your article?
<Nemip> Well, first of all, we'd like to hear a little bit about how people on this side of the border view the holiday.
<Callin> yeah, like how it's celebrated and all that.
<Turrie> I'm new to this town - so I don't really know the local customs [looks at Alea]
Callin looks a bit disappointed
Alea looks at Turrie and smiles
<Alea> As you know, if it weren't for the cooperation between the Simes and Gens both sides would have died.
<Alea> We re-enact that each year.
<Alea> In another couple of weeks, we'll be putting up decorations here and starting a campaign for people to come in and visit.
<Nemip> Like a show that's put on?
<Turrie> Faith Day is the day that people who do not donate at any other time will donate in remembrance of that occasion
<Alea> Yes. Exactly.
<Turrie> it is a very very busy time for Channels
<Alea> That is the culmination of Faith Day...
<Nemip> Hmm, doesn't sound like much of a vacation for you.
<Alea> Oh, but it is. We have a wonderful time of celebrations....
<Alea> and the "show" of trading food and then taking donations.
<Alea> It's quite moving.
<Turrie> it isn't a vacation for us - but it is a very meaningful occasion never the less
Callin picks up a cookie and chews it thoughtfully.
<Turrie> Callin - are you aware that you have Established?
<Callin> So how do you pick who to trade with?
Callin chokes on a mouthful of tea.
<Callin> I have?
Alea allows Turrie to answer
<Turrie> you have - about 2 months I would say
<Turrie> This means that you can donate this Faith Day - or indeed before - if you wish to
<Callin> my parents will be glad to hear that!
Turrie raises an eyebrow "Indeed?"
<Callin> Yes. They've been real worried that I... wouldn't.
Turrie looks at Nemip thoughtfully and then at Alea
<Turrie> I see
Alea smiles
<Turrie> and Nemip - what about your parents?
Callin is very relieved herself.
<Turrie> how do they feel about it?
<Nemip> We've never discussed it, really.
<Alea> How old are you Nemip?
<Nemip> I'll be fourteen next month.
<Turrie> Nemip - would you be interested in an examination? It would give you a "personal" approach for your article
<Alea> ummm, Hajene, Nemip is only fourteen.
<Nemip> What sort of an "examination"?
<Turrie> Yes Alea, contrary to popular opinion - I am not deaf
<Alea> I see.
<Turrie> I would like to "zlin" you more closely. This means I would have a look at your physical health and I may be able to give you a date as to when you will either Establish or change over
<Alea> Well, then, since you obviously don't need to be reminded of rules, you will excuse me.
Alea stands and leaves
<Nemip> Only two more years until I'm grown up.
<Turrie> Excuse me a moment please. [stands and follows Alea]
Callin looks after Alea and Turrie.
<Callin> What was that all about?
<Nemip> I'm not sure I want to know.
Callin shrugs and reaches for another cookie.
Alea heads down the hall
Alea goes toward the lobby.
Turrie augments after Alea and catches hold of her arm
Alea turns and lifts an eyebrow
<Alea> Excuse me?
<Turrie> I am sorry for the way I spoke to you in there Alea
Alea shrugs
<Turrie> however - that child is close to going through changeover
<Alea> you can't know that.
<Alea> And the child is not sixteen yet.
<Turrie> do you want to send him back to his Gen Territory school - or do you want me to give a time
<Turrie> which is why I want to do a full examination
<Alea> He is in earlier stages of changeover at this moment?
<Turrie> what does the age have to do with it?
<Turrie> I think so - yes
<Alea> fever?
Turrie realises this is the third time that the fact the child isn't yet 16 has been raised and wonders why
<Alea> You zlinned actual symptoms?
<Turrie> his temperature is elevated - I imagine that the excitement of the interview has caused him to ignore that
<Alea> If you didn't, and you examine that child the Center could be facing a lawsuit at best.
<Turrie> Alea - I would not have suggested an examination otherwise
<Alea> Yeah, but if we're wrong... the consequences could be bad for the Center.
<Turrie> I see - the legal age to be examined by a Channel in a Sime Center for out territory Gens is 16?
<Alea> It's when they're considered adults, yes. And if they're younger than that, unless they have Established or changed over, then we aren't suppose to touch them... except in extreme emergencies
<Alea> It's worse here on the borders because so many families are Gens...
<Alea> It's up to you, I suppose as a channel.
<Callin> Have a cookie, Nemip. They're good.
Nemip looks at the plate, but finds the idea of food slightly nauseating.
<Nemip> Nah. I'm not hungry.
Callin shakes her head in disbelief; she's _always_ hungry, lately.
<Alea> perhaps you should check with the Controller first.
<Turrie> If I am right and he is sent back to school and then home - what would be the consequences then? I don't know this area well enough! [frustrated]
<Alea> He'd probably die.
<Alea> Or be shot.
<Alea> and if lucky, only kill and make it here...
<Turrie> then we examine. However - if you feel the need to call the Controller into this by all means. Will you go back and sit with the children please?
Alea looks down her nose at Turrie.
Alea turns and goes back toward the conference room
<Turrie> I don't really think that Nemip should be left with Callin alone
Turrie turns and hurries to Controller Briel's office
Turrie signals
<Briel> Come.
Briel looks up from her paperwork, zlinning
Turrie enters "Controller. I would like your permission to do an examination on a young child from out-Territory."
<Turrie> Or indeed - if you would do the examination yourself
Briel sets her pen aside.
<Briel> I see.
<Briel> Is it an emergency?
Alea goes back into the conference room.
<Alea> Hajene Turrie will be back in a moment.
<Turrie> I believe so. Two children have come down from a out-Territory school to do an article for the school paper on Faith Day
<Callin> Oh. I hope nothing's wrong.
<Alea> Not at all.
<Turrie> One of them, the female Callin, has established. I feel the other may be very close to changeover
Alea studies Nemip closely for any outward signals of early changeover
Nemip decides to get on with the interview.
<Nemip> What do you do here?
<Briel> I see.
Briel considers.
<Alea> I'm a Donor. I work with channels like Hajene Turrie.
<Alea> We heal, take donations, transfers....
<Briel> If you are certain about this.
Briel stands.
<Briel> Would you mind if I come observe?
<Turrie> I am not certain at all - that is why I feel a full examination is needed
<Turrie> not at all Controller - if you would wish to perform the examination yourself....
Nemip brightens as Alea's job looks interesting enough to pass in their article.
<Briel> This is a touchy situation. We can examine the child... however, if it ends up only the flu and the child's parents are anti-Sime Center, we could have problems.
Turrie leads Briel back to the conference room
<Nemip> You take donations? I thought only channels did that.
<Briel> No, please. You go ahead and perform the examination. I'd only like to be there.
Alea smiles
<Alea> A channel has to have a good Donor with them.
<Turrie> Very well. [reenters the room with Controller Briel]
<Callin> Oh. So you're sort of like a nurse at the hospital?
<Alea> It's the channel that takes the actual donation, however..
<Alea> Yes.
<Alea> Exactly.
Callin thinks this isn't as exciting as a doctor, after all.
<Turrie> I'm sorry about that delay. This is Controller Briel. She, in conjunction with Controller Veraik who isn't here at the moment, runs this Center
wisesnake approaches the Sime Center, debates dumping B'cal outside the front door instead of bringing her all the way in
Callin looks at Briel.
<Callin> Is that a big job?
Briel nods to the children, zlinning
<Briel> Hello.
<Briel> Well, yes, I suppose it is.
<Turrie> As I was saying Nemip - if you would be interested in a full examination it would give you a more "personal" angle to the article
Briel walks behind Callin and Nemip, her laterals snaking out as she passes Nemip
Turrie glances at Briel to see if she notices the abnormalities in Nemip
Briel lifts an eyebrow hesitating then walking on
Briel glances at Turrie and nods her permission
Alea watches the goings on wondering if the kids have any idea what is really going on.
Callin cranes her neck to see what Briel is doing, and gasps as she sees the tentacles extend.
<Turrie> Nemip?
Briel takes a seat at the end of the table
Nemip looks around to see what alarmed Callin.
Turrie signals Alea to move away from Nemip - her field is clouding things
<Nemip> Err... could you tell us a bit more about how Faith Day is celebrated here?
Alea turns her nose up at Turrie and moves across the room
<Nemip> You said something about giving food. Is there some special food that's eaten at this time of year?
<Turrie> of course Nemip - but at the moment I'm more interested in you. How do you feel?
Nemip is confused.
<Nemip> I'm fine.
<Turrie> Have you ever seen a donation being taken?
<B`cal> Are you just going to sit there and look at it all day or are you going to walk me in?
wisesnake jumps
<wisesnake> Yes! Er, yes. Right away.
<Callin> Naw. They don't let kids see that kind of thing, where we're from.
wisesnake skulks up the front steps of the Sime Center and opens the door for B'cal
Callin blushes, remembering a tattered pamphlet that was passed around by her classmates until it fell apart.
Nemip nods confirmation, trying hard not to blush as well.
B`cal stamps up the front steps and enters the lobby, daring anybody there to laugh at how long they were standing out front... or at anything else for that matter
<Turrie> I see. Well with these [holds out tentacles for examination] we can do several things
Turrie extends laterals
<wisesnake> Well, you're in, I guess I'll be going now -- [turns toward street]
Briel notes the tension between the two and frowns
<Turrie> these are used for taking donations - but also for healing
Nemip and Callin stare, much as they would at a lurid comic.
B`cal grabs Snake by the arm [carefully but firmly]
Turrie retracts her laterals and lowers her arms
<B`cal> Why don't we have breakfast together?
Briel zlins Nemip carefully, thinking Turrie certainly doesn't believe in being subtle.
wisesnake grimaces, lets the front door fall closed.
<wisesnake> Uh... sure.
wisesnake thinks Nick will have a fit sitting in that cafe wondering when she would be coming out
Callin thinks the tentacles look even more gross than in the pamphlet.
wisesnake reminds herself she didn't ask Nick to wait there, in fact specifically didn't want him to, but that doesn't keep her from feeling a little guilty
<Turrie> In an examination the Channel takes the person's arms [turns to Alea to demonstrate]
B`cal marches Snake off to the cafeteria
Alea blunts her field and offers her arms
<Turrie> Alea?
Turrie takes Alea's arms in transfer position
<Turrie> In this position we can tell quite a lot about a person's health
Nemip stares, then starts to scribble, thinking that this is good stuff, too bad he won't be allowed to use it in the school paper.
<Turrie> but in some cases it is necessary to make the 5th contact [leans to Alea and makes 5th contact then leans back again] like that
Rhebe enters the Sime Center then realizes his "partner in crime" is missing.
Rhebe sticks his head back out the door
<Turrie> That allows us to see more and in more detail
<Rhebe> Hey! Boogerhead! Get your skinny butt up here!
Bloogy sighs and follows Rhebe up the stairs into the Sime Center
Rhebe is a 10 year old boy
Bloogy is a 9 year old boy
<Turrie> so Nemip - that is what I wish to do with you
<Rhebe> Wow! Look at all this great stuff!
<Turrie> it takes no longer than that
Rhebe starts grabbing pamphlets off the goodies rack
<Bloogy> [uncomfortably] Ree, don't. [whiny voice]
Turrie waits for Nemip to stop scribbling and realise what she is asking
<Nemip> Well, that's interesting and all, but it's not something we can use for our article.
Alea smiles at Nemip wondering what Turrie is going to do now
<Nemip> Maybe we could have a Faith Day recipe instead?
<Rhebe> Don't be such a wuss. We're here to get information.
<Turrie> I'm sure that could be arranged
<Rhebe> I'll bet NOBODY ELSE thought of coming to the Sime Center for theirs.
<Turrie> Would you like to see the donation rooms where people will come on Faith Day to make their donations?
<Bloogy> But I'm hungry. [whining] And my feet hurt. And I'm cold. And....
Callin brightens.
<Callin> Yeah. That would be neat.
<Rhebe> Maybe we should get them to check you to see if you Established already, the way you talk. [punches Bloogy in the arm]
<Bloogy> Ow!! [starts bawling]
Turrie looks at Briel and Alea "if that is all right with you Controller?"
Callin thinks that as long as they don't describe any actual donations, they'll be allowed to publish a description of the room.
<Briel> Of course.
Briel stands.
<Briel> I think it's an excellent idea.
<Turrie> Alea - perhaps you could lead the way?
Alea hates the way Turrie orders her around.
Turrie wants a quick conference with Briel
Rhebe takes one of each pamphlet and sticks the large bundle in his backpack
Callin and Nemip stand.
<Rhebe> Oh, quitcher whining. You'd think it was the end of the world or something.
<Alea> "Right this way, kids."
Rhebe feeling vaguely guilty for having hit Bloogy but not recognizing the feeling for what it is
Nemip leaves his tea mug half full; it doesn't seem to agree with him.
<Bloogy> But Ree,
Alea starts down the hall
Rhebe drags his young friend up to the front desk
Nemip and Callin follow.
Turrie turns to Briel "Controller - what is your opinion?"
<Rhebe> Look... here's forms. We can include them in our report.
Rhebe takes one of each form
<Bloogy> But Ree!
Bloogy tugs on Rhebe's sleeve plaintively
<Briel> You were right. Elevated temperature and minute changes that just might be changeover.
<Bloogy> We're gonna get in trouble for messing around.
<Bloogy> [whining]
<Turrie> What would be the procedure here now? I do not want to contravene any local laws
Rhebe seems to take a perverse joy in making his young friend worry
Rhebe collects the forms in a pile and puts those in his backpack too
<Rhebe> Just think... each of these forms we put in our report means one less page we have to write ourselves! Hey, I'm THINKIN' here.
<Briel> Find out how he feels about Simes...
<Briel> Then go from there.
<Briel> You don't want to scare him off, but you don't want to wait too long either.
<Turrie> very well. Could you get any idea of time?
<Rhebe> Hey, I wonder what's down these hallways. Let's go explore!
Turrie will lock the kid in the donation room if necessary
<Bloogy> Oh no... Ree, let's not, oh come on!
Briel shakes her head
<Briel> I'm not that good
<Bloogy> [calls after Rhebe's back]
<Turrie> very well
<Bloogy> Oh, [despairing whine]
Bloogy hurries after Rhebe
Turrie and Briel catch up to Alea and the two students
<Briel> You'll have to zlin better than that to find out how far... he is [whispers].
Briel zlins something and pauses
<Briel> You go on.
<Turrie> Very well
<Rhebe> Wow! Look at this room! This is great!
Rhebe whips out his sketch pad and starts laboriously drawing a picture of the transfer room
Bloogy wrings his hands anxiously
<Bloogy> I don't think we should be in here, Ree...
<Rhebe> Stop it, Booger, you're ruining my concinametration.
<Bloogy> You're drawing it all wrong. The table is over there. [snotty finger smudges the drawing]
<Rhebe> Hey! Get off me, you're messing me up. [pushes Bloogy]
Rhebe continues to draw the fixtures of the transfer room in a completely different configuration on his page
Briel starts toward the lobby
<Rhebe> Every picture we put in this report is one less page that we have to write!
<Bloogy> Oh.... [whining]
<Bloogy> Why does it matter so much saving pages? Huh? huh? Come on, let's just go home. I'm hungry.
<Bloogy> [whining]
<Rhebe> Look at these!
Alea falls in next to Turrie
Rhebe laboriously copies down the names of various drugs from some bottles sitting carelessly on a counter
Nemip looks curiously around as they pass down the hall.
<Rhebe> We can get extra credit for this.
<Turrie> here we go - in here Nemip, Callin
<Rhebe> Dy... my.. phe..ta..pher..o..cy..a..min..i..cin...ni...trate...
Briel enters the lobby and sees the children
Briel thinks Faith Day is starting early
<Turrie> this is one of the rooms where we take donations from people all year around - including Faith Day
Callin surveys the room.
<Callin> What a weird couch.
<Rhebe> pan...pol..y..di...laur..el...meth..yl..pan..then..ol..ium...
<Turrie> Nemip - if you sit on this couch here I'll show you
Callin goes over and sits on the transfer couch, bouncing a few times.
Bloogy climbs up to stand on the transfer couch, bounces experimentally
<Turrie> so tell me Nemip - how do you personally feel about Simes?
<Callin> It's comfortable, though.
<Briel> May I help you?
Briel zlins the children
Bloogy starts bouncing higher
Turrie restrains the desire to grab Callin, throttle her and throw her outside before locking the door
Rhebe tries to ignore the distracting bouncing
Briel goes into the transfer room and zlins the children
<Callin> So are all the couches here like this?
Bloogy actually loses much of his lugubriousness as he begins to bounce recklessly high, causing the transfer couch to rock ominously back and forth
<Bloogy> Yow!
Briel augments forward and snatches Bloogy from the air.
Bloogy tumbles backward off the couch at the appearance of Briel
Callin seems to recall that there were some conventional couches in the lobby, but isn't sure.
Rhebe grips his pad of paper and turns white as a sheet
Rhebe panics and runs when the Sime snatches his friend!!!
Briel leaps over the tipping couch and lands on the other side of the room with Bloogy
<Turrie> Yes Callin - although some are more brightly coloured then others due to a slight mix up with the decorating I believe
<Bloogy> NO no no Ree!! I don't wanna die!!!!!
<Bloogy> [terror]
Briel releases Bloogy
<Rhebe> Feet don't fail me now!
<Turrie> So Nemip - you didn't answer my question
<Briel> You shouldn't be jumping on the couch if you don't want to die.
Rhebe pounds down the hall and out into the lobby
<Briel> You could have broken your neck....
Rhebe puts on a burst of speed and escapes certain death by leaving the Sime Center
Bloogy stares at Briel as if paralyzed
Briel squats down
<Briel> My name is Briel. What's yours?
Bloogy is straining backward as if he is sure Briel will attempt to bite his neck next
Briel thinks great.
<Bloogy> B - b - b - bloogy?
Nemip has forgotten.
<Nemip> What question?
Bloogy wonders why the creature wants to know his name before it drains his brains out through his elbows
<Turrie> How do you feel about Simes?
Tamlen comes down the hall, hears shouting.
<Briel> So, what are you here for?
<Turrie> have you considered that you may be Sime?
Tamlen is carrying a short staff.
Alea moves up closer to Turrie, feelings aside so she can support the channel.
Nemip stares at Turrie like she had three heads as well as twelve tentacles.
Rhebe pauses about 2 blocks away from the Center, panting and out of breath
<Nemip> Why would I be Sime?
<Rhebe> Whew! Bloogy getting grabbed by the demonic hordes will sure add punch to the end of my report.
<Turrie> Well it's possible isn't it? You have never considered it?
Briel wishes she were anywhere but here.
Briel smiles at the kid
Briel holds onto the kid's hand so he won't run and waits
Bloogy looks up at Briel with scared puppy eyes
<Nemip> No, not particularly. It doesn't happen often, in my family.
Turrie thinks that this is almost as bad as working with politicians in Gen territory
<Bloogy> My... my... Ree made me do it.
Tamlen comes to the door.
<Turrie> nemip - I think it might happen to you
<Briel> Do what?
<Nemip> ~~fear~~
<Nemip> No!
Briel zlins Tamlen
Tamlen steps in and goes over to Briel.
Briel ~~ relief ~~
Callin is indignant at this insult to her fellow reporter.
<Turrie> It's nothing to be afraid of Nemip - really
<Callin> He's much too big.
<Briel> Tamlen, this is a young friend who has come to visit.
Turrie ignores Callin
<Briel> I think I startled him when I tried to grab him to keep him from falling.
<Turrie> if you like I can tell you for sure
Tamlen engages Briel's field as he looks around.
<Nemip> No one can know for sure before it happens.
Bloogy looks up at Tamlen wide-eyed
<Turrie> Thanks right Nemip
<Turrie> you are feeling a little hot today aren't you?
Bloogy has a boogie quivering in his nose in and out as he breathes
<Turrie> and you are off your food?
<Turrie> not feeling really well at all?
<Briel> He's a friend [to Bloogy]
Alea studies Nemip and Callin, waiting to see what they say.
Bloogy had thought RHEBE was a friend
<Nemip> Well, I'm not really hungry, but after the party last night, that's not surprising.
Bloogy is learning otherwise however
<Briel> Did you come here for something, then?
<Turrie> Would you like to know for sure Nemip?
<Nemip> I must have eaten half a pizza.
Bloogy attempts a weak smile, hoping he can avoid getting his eyeballs popped out by tentacle suction
<Callin> more.
<Bloogy> R-r-ree wanted to.
<Briel> Really.
<Briel> Well, it's a shame Ree left.
Briel looks at Tamlen for a clue as to what to do next.
Nemip thinks over Turrie's question.
<Briel> And why did he want to? [to Bloogy]
Nemip twists his hands experimentally.
<Bloogy> We have a report.
<Briel> Ah, well, that's great!
<Nemip> My arms aren't sore at all.
Briel smiles
<Briel> What did you want to do your report over?
Bloogy had assumed Rhebe would handle the actual report and hadn't really paid much attention to the assignment
<Turrie> Thanks good Nemip. Of course - they need not be sore yet
Tamlen squats down to look Bloogy in the eye. "Hello. I'm Tamlen."
<Tamlen> What is the report on?
<Bloogy> Uh... [finger in mouth, trying to think of a plausible answer]
<Nemip> What makes you think I'm turning Sime?
<Bloogy> On, the, um, [looks around for something]... tentacles.
<Alea> Have you been in one of these rooms before?
<Alea> [to the kids]
<Tamlen> A report just on tentacles?
<Turrie> As I was saying before - one of the things that Channels can do is to "see" the fields caused by living things
Bloogy tries a sickly grin
<Bloogy> Yeah?
<Turrie> and when I noticed that Callin had established Gen - I also noticed the beginning of changeover in you
Briel gently releases her tentacle from around Bloogy's arm
<Tamlen> Ok. When I was in school I had to do a report on road building.
Bloogy 's face screws up
<Turrie> But I need more information
<Nemip> Oh. Then why did you tell me that you weren't sure?
<Bloogy> Why would you want to do one on that?
Nemip is confused now as well as scared.
<Tamlen> I didn't. The teacher told me too.
<Turrie> Nemip - I know this is very confusing and frightening for you. You must face this with all your courage
<Bloogy> Oh. [This, at least, Bloogy understands]
Turrie looks at Alea and Callin
<Tamlen> But it's interesting. Did you know there are 8 different kinds of roads in New Washington Territory?
<Alea> You know, Nemip, I wanted to be Sime when I was your age.
<Alea> I was soooo disappointed when I ended up a Gen.
Alea ~~ encouragement ~~~
<Bloogy> No... [staring up at Tamlen]
Bloogy wipes his snotty nose on his coat sleeve
Nemip 's eyes widen: the last time he was told about having courage, his mother died.
Briel is greatly relieved with this story.
<Tamlen> Well, there are. But I've forgotten what they all are....
<Bloogy> Can I have a tentacle in a jar for my report?
<Callin> So you turned out wrong, too?
<Bloogy> [artful innocence]
Briel 's tentacles curl and she steps toward Tamlen
<Tamlen> Some are good all year round, some only in the summer and fall.
<Turrie> Nemip - this can all be over in a minute if you let it
<Tamlen> ~~ support ~~
<Turrie> then we will know for sure
<Alea> Well, I found out that being Gen isn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.
<Tamlen> No, I'm afraid not.
<Bloogy> [very disappointed]
<Nemip> Well....
<Alea> It won't hurt.
Alea smiles gently
<Turrie> you will feel nothing at all
Nemip looks at Callin for advice.
Alea nods encouragingly at Callin
<Turrie> and think of the stories you can tell at school if I'm wrong
<Briel> However, we can give you something just as good.
Bloogy looks hopeful
<Bloogy> Really?
<Turrie> and Callin will be right there as a witness so no one can say you were lying!
Callin is not happy at traveling all the way back to Eastcove with an incipient changeover.
<Briel> How would you like a demonstration arm, that has the tentacles and laterals on it?
<Callin> Go on, Nemip. You should find out.
<Bloogy> Yeah!
<Briel> We have some in the storage closet that we use for classes.
Briel looks at Tamlen
Nemip shuffles his feet.
<Briel> And maybe you could interview Tamlen about how he feels having tentacles touch his arms every month or something.
Turrie keeps very steady
<Nemip> Well, OK, then.
Bloogy thinks that a tentacle in a jar would have been ookier, but he has to have SOMETHING to show for himself when he tells his story
<Turrie> Thank you Nemip - you have done the right thing
<Bloogy> Okay.
<Turrie> Please sit here on the couch - Alea would you mind taking Callin over to the observation chair please?
<Tamlen> Should I go get one...?
<Alea> Come with me Callin. We'll sit right over here....
<Briel> Please do, Tamlen.
Callin bounces off the couch, smiling encouragement at Nemip.
Alea sits down.
Callin is very glad she's not the one being tested for changeover.
Tamlen carefully disengages his field.
Tamlen goes out the door and down to the classroom.
Briel stiffens up, just a bit nervous at losing the Gen field.
<Turrie> Now all you have to do Nemip is sit very still - that's not hard is it [smiles]
Nemip moves reluctantly to the couch, not sure he really wants to know.
<Briel> So, what did you say your name was?
Briel smiles at the kid.
Nemip perches on the very edge of the couch, still clutching his notebook.
<Alea> Would you like lunch, and maybe a tour of the entire Center after this, Callin?
Tamlen looks through the closet for one of the old demonstrator arms, without the movable elbow.
Callin watches Turrie move in on Nemip, thinking this is even better than the Simeside comics.
Nemip has also caught the similarity to their favorite escapist reading, and isn't happy about being cast in the role of the victim.
Turrie takes Nemip's arms in her hands and gently wraps her tentacles around them - not tightly
<Turrie> Now I want you to just sit very still. If it makes you feel better you can close your eyes if you like.
Tamlen returns with a demonstrator arm with 6 working tentacles.
Nemip is staring at the tentacles, feeling very squeamish.
<Briel> Oh, Tamlen.
Turrie gently feels for signs of changeover... there is a definite drop in selyn... Nemip should be feeling sore by now - why isn't he?
<Tamlen> Here you are.
Briel smiles.
Tamlen engages Briel's field.
<Briel> How is that young man.
<Turrie> Nemip - I'm going to just softly touch your lips with mine ok?
<Tamlen> Let me show you how this works.
Alea keeps a close eye on Callin.
Turrie leans forward and makes 5th contact zlinning deeper
Nemip tears his eyes away from the tentacles to look at Turrie's face.
<Nemip> Why?
Tamlen shows how working the controls at the upper end extend the tentacles.
Turrie sits back "told you it wouldn't take long didn't I?"
<Turrie> Just sit still a moment longer please
Turrie releases his arms
<Turrie> There - all done
<Turrie> Nemip - you are in changeover
Nemip starts to tremble.
<Turrie> it's ok
<Nemip> No! I want to stay with my family.
<Turrie> there is no reason you can't stay with your family if you want - once you are all well again
Alea 's eyes widen as she stares at Turrie
Nemip looks at Turrie like her tentacles all turned green.
<Nemip> As a Sime?
<Bloogy> wow
Bloogy 's fingers curl up as the tentacles ooze out
Briel is greatly relieved the child likes it.
<Briel> It should make a wonderful report.
Bloogy grabs the arm hugging it to himself
<Turrie> yes - although you may prefer not to - you will have to talk to your parents about that
<Bloogy> I wanna go now!
Callin is now certain that Simes are even more crazy than the comic books implied.
Bloogy thinks he should quit while he is ahead
<Briel> Well, I suppose you can, but do me a favor. When you want more information, be sure to come back and interview Tamlen here.
<Turrie> there are some things that we are going to have to do first - like contact your folks - see Callin back to the school
<Turrie> I wish to let Controller Briel know what is happening as well [smiles]
Bloogy looks at Briel wide-eyed, wondering why he would ever dream of coming back here without being forced
<Bloogy> Okay.
Briel smiles
<Briel> Good.
Callin is starting to wonder what's going to happen to her when she returns without Nemip.
<Turrie> Alea - perhaps you could sit with Nemip while I see the Controller and make arrangements for Callin to be escorted back to school
<Tamlen> I look forward to talking to you.
<Alea> Of course.
<Turrie> Nemip - you could continue with your report if you like
<Alea> Oh, I love to give interviews
Bloogy turns and hurries out the door, busily making the tentacles go in and out
<Turrie> Thank you Alea [looks at Alea with genuine gratitude]
Alea ~~ doesn't ~~
Briel looks at Tamlen.
<Briel> I found them in here, jumping on the couches.
<Turrie> Callin - say bye to Nemip for now - you will see him again in a few days I'm sure
<Tamlen> What was that all about?
<Briel> I scared the shenned out of them.
Nemip holds out the notebook.
<Briel> the one here was bouncing and the couch was tipping. I augmented and caught him up.
<Briel> Scared him to death.
<Tamlen> Oh dear. What happened?
<Nemip> I suppose you'll have to finish the report.
<Briel> I imagine we're going to have repercussions if that kid's parents get wind of this.
Callin takes the notebook, as gravely as if she were attending a funeral.
wisesnake drags herself out of the cafeteria, feeling tired because B'cal made her eat like a horse
<Alea> So, tell me Nemip, what are you studying at school?
Alea turns all of her attention to Nemip projecting calm and soothing feelings.
<Briel> One kid took off outta here... you saw what happened with the other one.
Briel sighs and rubs at her neck.
Turrie takes Callin back to the lobby and arranges with the clerk to have someone escort her home and deliver the message to Nemip's parents
<Briel> Shen, I just wasn't thinking when I saw the kid about to fall.
wisesnake passes listlessly through the lobby on her way to the front door
Tamlen takes over rubbing the neck.
Briel relaxes.
wisesnake is surprised when the desk clerk tries to get her attention
wisesnake heads over in that direction
<Nemip> History, mostly. I want to be a reporter, and you have to have perspective.
<Alea> Oh, I love history.
Alea smiles.
wisesnake is baffled when the desk clerk asks her to take some kid home to Gen Territory
<Alea> My favorite is pre-Tecton.
<wisesnake> Uh well... [eyes Callin dubiously]... sure.
<Tamlen> Why were they here in the first place.
<Briel> I have no idea.
<Briel> A report?
wisesnake wonders where in the world they find these people [eyes clerk dubiously]
<Briel> That's what the kid said.
<Briel> They were having a blast when i walked in on them.
<wisesnake> I can take you as far as the border anyway.
Callin looks at the greasy weasel.
<Tamlen> But how did they get in here alone?
<wisesnake> Or... the train station. Do you know how to get home on the train?
<Callin> I can find my own way back, really.
wisesnake looks disgruntled
<Briel> That's what I'd like to know.
<wisesnake> Fine.
<Briel> You know, every since Tarsh has left the front desk, we've had all kinds of nuts get back here.
wisesnake turns around and heads for the front door again, wondering why these people think she has time for such nonsense
<Tamlen> Yeah, but before, weren't there a number of near attacks by him?
<Briel> near attacks by him?
Briel doesn't like this subject.
<Briel> I wouldn't exactly say attacks.
<Briel> I would say they were more... accidents that startled him.
wisesnake leaves the Sime Center
<Tamlen> Ah.
<Tamlen> ~~ calming ~~
<Briel> Sometimes...
Briel allows Tamlen's field to calm her.
Tamlen reflects about the danger of Avaleia's return Lanyi told him about.
NickR sits in the cafe, starting to get seriously worried as Snake fails to reappear.
<Briel> Accidents happen and Gens have no idea how their fields effect a Sime.
Turrie_ heads towards Briel's office to see if she is there
wisesnake trudges down the street morosely
<Tamlen> Maybe we should have some permanent guards in the lobby? Does the Tecton Marshal's service do that?
Turrie finds Briel isn't there and goes looking
<Briel> I have no idea.
<Briel> However, if it'd keep people like that out of here, then I'm all for it... if it doesn't scare our business away
Turrie heads back to the lobby
<Tamlen> Yes, there is that.
Turrie tries the cafeteria
<Briel> Anyway, I appreciate you coming in here.
Turrie tries the transfer rooms
<Briel> I had no idea how I was going to handle a standoff with that kid.
<Briel> He was terrified and I....
Briel shrugs
<Briel> I didn't know if it'd be better to let him run or try to explain.
Turrie taps on the open door "Controller Briel - sorry to bother you"
<Tamlen> At least this way he is sure that didn't get away by his own efforts.
<Briel> True.
Briel turns.
<Briel> Yes?
Briel zlinning concerned.
<Briel> The possible changeover?
NickR finishes his third tea.
<Turrie> is a definite now
<Turrie> There will be a problem however
Briel rubs her forehead
<Briel> Isn't there always.
Turrie looks at Tamlen
<Briel> What is it?
<Turrie> Nemip's selyn production is dropping rapidly - however he is a long way from breakout
<Briel> great.
Briel ~~ sarcastic ~~
<Tamlen> ~~ concern ~~
<Briel> How long are we talking?
<Alea> So, Nemip... do you like to play cards?
wisesnake walks into the cafe, nose wrinkling at the smells of food
<wisesnake> ugh
NickR sees Snake, and is greatly relieved.
<Turrie> I would estimate that break out will not occur in less then 5 hours - maybe more
<Turrie> however - selyn production will cease in the next 3
wisesnake approaches Nick
Frog_ runs over at the sight of Snake. He is clean and is wearing a white apron and has a pen and pad in his hand
<Frog_> Ah Snake - I'm so pleased to see you. Can I get you anything? On the house of course!
wisesnake suffers a period of disorientation and realizes she is in a different cafe than she had originally thought
<Briel> Perhaps there's something we can do.
wisesnake grips a table until the effect settles
<wisesnake> ouch... I hate when that happens.
wisesnake carefully detaches one hand from the table to massage her forehead gingerly
<NickR> ~~concern~~
<Tamlen> Can we accelerate tentacle development somehow?
<Briel> If we keep him calm, quiet, and encourage her along..
Briel nods to Tamlen
<Briel> We're certainly not just going to give up.
NickR reaches out with a steady nager, hoping to ground Snake in the here-and-now.
Nemip isn't sure whether it's just suggestion, but his arms seem sore now.
wisesnake feels a final snap of disorientation as the original cafe she THOUGHT she was in reforms around her
<wisesnake> Wow.
Alea looks at Nemip
wisesnake feels her way unsteadily over to Nick
<Alea> What's the matter?
Nemip 's last hope that Turrie was nefariously faking a changeover to steal an illicit donation fades.
<NickR> What's the matter, Snake?
<Tamlen> Who's the highest field Donor now. Me, Alea, or someone else?
<wisesnake> Nothing... I...
<NickR> You look like you've been knocked out and moved.
<wisesnake> Same general effect. Happens sometimes for no reason. Fortunately it wasn't too bad this time.
<NickR> What brings it on?
<Briel> Alea just had transfer. Though she is moderate right now, your field is higher.
<Briel> Of course, Bcal is higher than you.
wisesnake hesitates
<Tamlen> Then we'd want her there with him to stimulate growth, right?
<NickR> If I'm going to help you with it, I have to know.
<Briel> She was due transfer with Veraik this last time, and hasn't had it so I put her off to match Lanyi.
Briel frowns
<Briel> Yes.
<wisesnake> True [concedes]
<wisesnake> I'm not one hundred percent sure.
NickR waits patiently, knowing how much Snake hates to admit weaknesses.
wisesnake feels kind of exposed talking about it standing in the middle of a cafe
<Briel> I think we're going to go with you, though Tamlen.
wisesnake edges towards the door
<Tamlen> ~~ pride ~~ OK.
<wisesnake> It doesn't always happen exactly the same way.
<Briel> You'll do fine.
<Briel> Come on.
NickR takes the hint, drops a bill on the table, and follows.
Briel motions for Turrie to go and they follow her back to the room.
<Nemip> My arms are sore. Like they've been bruised.
Briel pushes open the door.
<Turrie> We are back Alea, Nemip
Tamlen comes in behind Briel.
Tamlen goes over to sit by Nemip.
<Briel> Tamlen, you will take Alea's place. Alea, you support me and Turrie will work on Nemip.
<wisesnake> Sometimes, like this time, I feel like I'm somewhere else. I even see other people who are there!
<Turrie> How are you feeling Nemip
Turrie sits next to Nemip
<wisesnake> Just a second ago, I could have sworn I was in the cafe over the tree park, talking to Frog.
<wisesnake> ~~unnerved~~
Alea nods and gets up, moves over to support Briel
<Nemip> Hey, what are you doing?
<wisesnake> But... usually what happens is I will just be going along, and I'll realize all of a sudden a lot of things have happened that I just... missed.
Alea smiles at Nemip
wisesnake chooses quiet streets to walk down, and keeps her voice low
<Tamlen> Hello. My name is Tamlen. I'm here to help you and Hajene Turrie.
<Alea> Looks like you might get a really good interview here, Nemip.
<Alea> Did you know Tamlen was alive during the first faith day?
<Turrie> Nemip - nothing at the moment - I was just wondering how you were feeling - can I see your arms please?
<Nemip> I just want to go home.
<Turrie> I'm sorry - you can't go home just yet
Nemip looks at Turrie.
<wisesnake> Minutes... hours... nothing. Gone.
Alea ~~support ~~
<Nemip> I can't ever go home, as a Sime.
Briel moves up, careful not to disturb Turrie.
<Turrie> Well we will see about that after - just for now - try not to worry about it ok?
<Turrie> lets have a look at those arms first [smiles]
Turrie takes Nemip's hands and turns his arms over looking for some sign of change. She holds them up for Briel to see - no sign yet
NickR looks distinctly worried, although he manages to keep it pretty much out of his nager.
<Turrie> Briel - can you zlin this?
Tamlen projects ~~ need to give ~~ at Nemip.
Briel zlins
<wisesnake> Sometimes I think it's worst when I'm alone. Sometimes I think it happens more when I'm worried, or when my mind is on a lot of other things. But it might be a combination of factors. Or something else indirectly related.
<wisesnake> ~~frustrated~~
Nemip looks at Briel's arms, contemplates having tentacles like that on his own arms, and is violently sick over Briel's shoes.
<Turrie> Tamlen - can you get us a bucket and some cloths please?
<Turrie> It's ok
Briel sighs and reaches out
<Briel> No.
<Briel> Alea can do that. Tamlen you stay here.
Tamlen starts to move and then stops.
<Briel> continue to encourage him with your field.
<Turrie> Nemip I want you to stay very very calm and relaxed ok?
<Turrie> just lay down here
<NickR> How often does it happen?
Alea goes over and gets a bucket and some cloths
Briel steps over, ignoring the mess to zlin more closely
Nemip is now starting to feel really sick, and is glad to lie down.
wisesnake 's tentacle waves helplessly
<wisesnake> I don't know... big ones, maybe two or three times a week, on bad weeks. Little ones, once or twice a day.
<wisesnake> It's been better since you came back.
<NickR> How long has this been going on?
Alea wets a cloth and returns, handing it to Tamlen, then sets the bucket next to the couch
Alea gets another towel and lays it over the mess.
<wisesnake> [reluctant]
<Tamlen> ~~ need to give ~~
Nemip 's nager is lowering, but not as quickly as average.
Tamlen focuses on Nemip's arms.
<wisesnake> Since I left Zeor. Maybe since changeover.
Tamlen wipes Nemip's face.
Turrie feels Nemip's arms
<NickR> ~~professional and personal concern~~
<wisesnake> The first really disturbing one didn't happen until the day I talked Linn into donating.
Briel reaches back and pulls Alea closer
<NickR> The first time?
<Turrie> stay there with Tamlen a moment Nemip - I'll be right back
<wisesnake> They were littler before that. I don't know if I could say for sure when the first little one was.
Turrie goes over to confer with Briel
<Turrie> [softly] what medications do you have available at the Center for this?
Alea keeps her attention closely on Briel
<wisesnake> When I'm alone, it doesn't feel like anything... just a little snap, like I was starting to fall asleep and woke up again suddenly.
<Briel> We have some mild sedatives that might relax him more to reduce the selyn consumption.
<Turrie> [softly] if we can't stop the loss of selyn for at least 2 hours we are going to lose him
<wisesnake> I had thought that, with good Donor support... [disappointment]
<Briel> We can't stop the consumption of selyn, but we can slow it down.
Nemip is calmer with the Simes across the room.
<Turrie> [softly] I really don't want him groggy when the time comes though
Turrie thinks
Nemip looks at Tamlen.
<Briel> Groggy is better than dead.
<Nemip> Were you really there at the first Faith Day?
<NickR> But it didn't help?
<wisesnake> It did help. [allows]
<wisesnake> The days without, with nobody at all, were the worst.
<wisesnake> There were whole nights lost, missing or... [thinks of Zilla and thinks: out of control]
<Tamlen> Yes I was. It was very cold.
wisesnake is beginning to feel distinctly uncomfortable and turns her mind away from those thoughts
<NickR> And this last time, you weren't with a Donor.
<wisesnake> True.
<Tamlen> I hadn't eaten for a day and a half.
<NickR> Have you ever had a big episode when a Donor was supporting you?
<Turrie> very well
wisesnake grimaces
<Turrie> we will try the sedatives
Nemip settles back to enjoy the story.
Briel goes over to the cabinet and gets a very mild sedative and mixes it in some water.
<wisesnake> I would like to say no... however there were two days when something rather unsettling occurred when I was taking B'cal back to the Sime Center.
<Turrie> Nemip - we would like you to drink this medicine for us
Briel brings it back and hands it to Tamlen, nodding slightly
<Turrie> do you think you can keep it down?
<Tamlen> We had been fighting along with the Nivet army for a couple of months then, but we still didn't trust them very much.
<Tamlen> Well, not most of us.
Turrie knees behind Nemip and lifts him so he can drink without chocking
Nemip absentmindedly takes the medicine and slurps it down.
<Turrie> Thank you - you are doing very well
Turrie moves away
Briel grabs Alea's arm and moves away
NickR frowns.
<Turrie> [softly] he definitely slows down when he is alone with Tamlen
<NickR> Was B'cal offering you full support at those times?
<wisesnake> No, we were just walking down the street.
<wisesnake> She said I just kind of... faded away.
<NickR> Faded away?
<wisesnake> All I remember is finding myself walking around in a strange part of town hours later having no idea what happened in between.
Alea frowns but goes with Briel ~~ support ~~
<wisesnake> It happened two days in a row.
<NickR> Exactly when was this?
<wisesnake> Well she said first I started acting like she wasn't even there, and then I just walked off ignoring her...
wisesnake thinks
<wisesnake> It was after... the... argument. 2
wisesnake uncomfortably
<Tamlen> Now the army of raiders out of the Nor'West was waiting for the first thaw. Then they would attack...
<NickR> And were you thinking at the time of how you were going to manage when B'cal was back at the Sime Center, and you were alone?
<wisesnake> I imagine I probably was. It was pretty high on my list of concerns at the time.
Nemip 's eyes widen in delight as the story takes a turn familiar to any comic book fan.
NickR considers.
Turrie stays at the far side of the room observing the dropping selyn rate
<NickR> I wonder if that's the trigger, then? Worry about support?
<Tamlen> Now we had the more organized force, but supplies were short.
<wisesnake> Maybe...
<wisesnake> I guess I was kind of worrying about whether Rapol would be ready when it's time for B'cal to go home.
<wisesnake> That's only in two weeks now, you realize.
wisesnake thinks it's awfully chickenhearted of her to worry about Donor #3 disappearing when most people only get one.
wisesnake grimaces
<NickR> How has Rapol been doing?
Nemip nods, relaxing at the familiar tale.
<wisesnake> He's been doing reasonably well.
Turrie hopes that Nemip goes to sleep
<wisesnake> No major problems yet and he is willing to learn.
<NickR> Well, then, let's try something for this next week.
<Tamlen> The quartermasters couldn't get through the snow anymore than the raiders could. And an army of Gens eats a lot of food, let me tell you.
<wisesnake> ~~curious~~
Briel zlins again then nods to Turrie
<wisesnake> What?
<Tamlen> When you're cooped up in a winter camp you get really cold. And there isn't much to do besides figure out ways to swindle the cook.
<NickR> We'll just make sure that you're not ever alone or without support.
<NickR> With three Donors, that's possible.
<Briel> I'll be leaving. Call me when it's time [to Turrie]
<NickR> Even walking down the street.
Nemip nods, having heard camp stories before.
Turrie sees Nemip's getting drowsy and moves forward to take a closer reading. She nods to Tamlen to keep talking and gently puts a hand on Nemip's arm
wisesnake 's eyebrows raise
Briel takes Alea's arm and leaves the room.
<wisesnake> Perhaps it's possible if Rapol moves in with us.
<Tamlen> Of course the officers always come up with something they say is important to try and keep people busy.
<wisesnake> I think he wants to anyway.
Briel leans against the wall outside
Turrie nods again to Tamlen and follows Briel outside
<NickR> Well, there's room enough in the Ferry Building.
<wisesnake> I don't want either of you walking around alone, that worries me just as much.
<Turrie> are you ok Controller?
<wisesnake> With both of you living there it ought to be possible.
<wisesnake> ~~cautious optimism~~
NickR hopes the exotic furniture can go into storage, though.
<Alea> That bad. [said flatly]
Briel nods
<Briel> Yeah.
<Briel> I will catch some work up while Turrie is involved with this and be back in a bit.
<Nemip> Did they make you shovel snow and stuff?
<Turrie> If you wish I'm sure that Tamlen and I can continue alone. There is no need for either of you to be here
<Turrie> I will let you know... when....
<NickR> It's worth a try, at any rate.
<Tamlen> And at the same time, over in the Sime Army camp, they were running out of selyn for the channels.
<Nemip> Why? They had plenty before, didn't they?
<Tamlen> Yes. Shovelling snow, making walls out of it, all sorts of things.
<wisesnake> True.
Turrie returns to the room and sits down away from the couch
Nemip 's arms are now swollen monstrosities, and he is feeling increasingly sick.
<Tamlen> They said walls of snow would block the wind and keep us a little warmer.
<Nemip> Did you have snowball fights with the Simes?
<Tamlen> Some of us did, a few times. We lost them, though.
<wisesnake> And I'm sure it will make a difference, even if it doesn't make it go away entirely.
Nemip frowns; he hadn't pictured the victorious Gen Army as losing a child's game.
<Nemip> You did?
<Tamlen> Simes could zlin when we were about to throw and duck out of the way.
<NickR> If nothing else, if we're all watching out for it, we'll be able to tell you what happened when you were... ill.
Nemip hadn't thought that being Sime could be so useful.
<wisesnake> True.
<Nemip> So why were they running out of selyn all of a sudden.
<Tamlen> Simes can use selyn to keep themselves warm in the winter. But it takes a lot.
wisesnake feels better having discussed it, even if it is an uncomfortable subject
<wisesnake> I'll let Rapol and B'cal know tonight.
<NickR> Good.
<wisesnake> It might take a few days for Rapol to get started, he's got a lot of delicate stuff that will have to be packaged well before movers can be trusted with it.
<Nemip> So they were running out of Gens?
<Tamlen> They were taking transfers from channels then. But channels just channel selyn, they don't make it.
mist` swirls around the ceiling.
NickR decides against suggesting that Rapol ask Linn to take care of those details, figuring that that won't go over too well.
wisesnake worries a little bit about the intervening days, when Rapol wouldn't yet be living with them, and how everything might be scheduled to avoid her ever being alone, while also not risking the kidnapping, murder, etc. of any of her Donors...
<Nemip> So they wanted to get it from you?
<Tamlen> Now all of us Gens over in the Gen army had lots of selyn.
wisesnake starts as she sees something over the rooftops
Tamlen reflects that he didn't but doesn't want to complicate the story.
wisesnake peers in that direction and, forgetting about Nick, turns that way, watching intently
Turrie_ concentrates on not letting Nemip's increasing discomfort interfere with her system
NickR looks to see what's attracted Snake's attention.
<NickR> What is it?
mist` flows down to swirl furiously in the middle of the room over a potted plant.
Nemip sees a weird mist floating over the room, and smiles drowsily, thinking it's pretty.
wisesnake feels a surge of odd sensations, then sees a bright flowing... something... moving among leaves
Turrie walks over to Nemip and Tamlen "How are you going Nemip? Tamlen - may I interrupt your story for just a second to see how our patient is going?"
<Tamlen> of course.
wisesnake hears voices; cocks her head, straining to hear the words
Nemip is too groggy to be upset by another "examination".
<mist`> The mist resolves itself to look like a child's face....
wisesnake sees a face
wisesnake 's laterals lick out to zlin
<mist`> "noooo....."
NickR grips Snake's upper arm.
<NickR> What is it, Snake?
<mist`> "don't want to be Sime...."
Alea goes to the lobby and tells the Clerk to send word to the child's parents
wisesnake is standing stiffly, staring with an expression of extreme concentration at nothing whatsoever
Alea asks the clerk when they get here, to let her know.
<mist`> ~~ changeover pattern ~~
wisesnake zlins a changeover victim
Turrie takes Nemip in position and closely examines his arms. She probes the slight swellings with her tentacles
<Turrie> I'm sorry if that hurts Nemip
Nemip flinches at the pain.
childface jerks feebly.
<Turrie> Tamlen - please continue with your story - it's fascinating
<childface> ~~ attrition ~~
wisesnake zlins in alarm, attempting to determine the location... any location
<wisesnake> no!
<wisesnake> ~~~Gen need to give~~~
Alea nods then tells clerk she'll be somewhere in the transfer area when they arrive.
childface 's eyes open in need.
<NickR> Is there a Sime in need?
wisesnake 's tentacles grope
Turrie hasn't felt the need for a Donor's presence this strongly in a long time and strictly schools herself
childface [arms reach towards Snake]
<wisesnake> ~~~offering~~~
childface [arms have no tentacles] ~~ need ~~
<wisesnake> Oh no...
Alea turns and heads back toward the room.
wisesnake feels/sees the untentacled arms slipping from her grasp
childface is now known as mist
mist swirls.
mist shimmers purple and orange.
NickR uses his nager to ground Snake.
<wisesnake> Where... where??
<wisesnake> ~~zlinning wildly~~
<NickR> Snake, what's the matter?
<wisesnake> When?
wisesnake 's tentacles lash out and find Nick's arm
Alea hesitates outside the door, then opens it to go back in.
mist resembles a face that is not really human somehow, but nonetheless familiar.
<wisesnake> ~~confusion~~
wisesnake tries to recognize the "face"
mist briefly takes the form of Gnome...
NickR sees Snake trying to think and offers calming support to aid concentration.
wisesnake 's eyes narrow as she recognizes the statue in the Sime Center's garden
Alea looks at Turrie
Turrie shakes her head
wisesnake is squeezing Nick's arm way too hard
mist fades ....
NickR refuses to let himself feel the pain.
Alea goes over to support Turrie, while listening to Tamlen.
wisesnake feels a shimmering distortion of her Sime senses
<wisesnake> Uhhhh...
Turrie lets herself accept the support
wisesnake shakes her head, trying to clear it
<mist> [ A waitress carries a tray through mist, dissipating it ]
<Turrie> [softly to Alea] are you sure you want to be here Alea?
wisesnake sheaths her laterals which are not fond of the frigid winter air
<Alea> I'm a Donor, Hajene.
Turrie nods her thanks
wisesnake blinks and stares at the final and incongruous vision of a waitress, then sighs
<Turrie> then please sit - rest that leg. I don't think it will be long now
Nemip looks at Tamlen.
<Nemip> So what happened then?
wisesnake realizes what she is doing to Nick and lets go of his arm suddenly
<Tamlen> So you had a Gen army with selyn, but no food. And a Sime army which had some food, but no selyn.
<wisesnake> Sorry. Sorry, I...
NickR nods.
wisesnake turns and begins to hurry in the direction of the Sime Center
<NickR> What's the problem?
NickR hurries after Snake.
Nemip clings to the story as a buffer against his increasing discomfort.
<wisesnake> I - [realizes it would be a bad move to tell Nick exactly what she thinks she saw]
<wisesnake> I just remembered I forgot something at the Sime Center,
<Tamlen> Now, Simes don't have to eat every day. They should do it, to stay healthy, but if they miss a few days it doesn't bother them the way it does Gens or children.
<wisesnake> [distractedly]
<NickR> Oh.
Briel finishes the transfers that were due and then returns to the room.
NickR isn't sure he buys this answer, but it doesn't seem time to argue.
<Nemip> They can go without eating?
<wisesnake> And... maybe there will... be work there for me or something.
wisesnake hurries faster
Nemip finds this hard to believe, except just now he feels like he's never going to be able to keep down a morsel again.
NickR sprints after Snake.
<Tamlen> Yes. A Sime can go for a week with eating anything and only be uncomfortable, while a Gen would be faint and listless.
<Turrie> [softly to Alea] his selyn is distressingly low - and there is no physical way of getting any into his system. We can't force break out - there isn't anything there to force
Briel is sidetracked by an angry donor who is having to wait.
wisesnake skids around a corner and the Sime Center is now in sight
<Turrie> he will be desperately in need at any moment - and there is nothing at all anyone can do
Alea ~~ offers support and positive ~~
Nemip glances at his arms, where the tentacle sheathes are now ugly bulges.
Briel finally hands off the person to Jorgre and turns back to the room.
Turrie steps forward
<Turrie> Tamlen - thank you - I think I'll take over now....
<Turrie> Nemip - I'm going to try something to hurry this up
<Turrie> and I'll be honest with you - it will hurt
Alea looks at Tamlen and steps back to allow him to support Turrie.
<Turrie> but we have to do it ok?
<Tamlen> Now we didn't trust the channels back in those days, so we didn't want to give them our selyn. But we were very hungry...
<Tamlen> Of course hajene.
Nemip looks at Turrie a bit suspiciously.
<Nemip> What are you going to do?
Turrie takes Nemip's arms in her hands and lined up her tentacles with the bulges. She extrudes her laterals
Nemip wishes Tamlen hadn't moved away.
wisesnake bounds up the front steps of the Center
<Turrie> I'm going to help your tentacles get out
Briel turns down the hall to where transfers are given, striding toward the room.
<Turrie> [thinks - but I don't want to do this]
wisesnake skids to a stop on the front porch and waits for Nick, tries to calm her appearance so she doesn't scare shen out of every Gen in the lobby when she enters
NickR is very glad that the steps have been shoveled as he follows at top speed.
wisesnake grunts as Nick runs into her from behind
Briel goes to the door and quietly pushes the door open
Turrie presses with her tentacles - tearing the thick skin still over the underformed tentacles painfully
Turrie holds Nemip tightly against the pain
NickR falls into place, looking very professional for someone who's out of breath from sprinting halfway across town.
Nemip screams loudly.
wisesnake opens the door and steps tensely into the lobby
Briel pauses, seeing what's happening
wisesnake winces at the sound of a muffled scream
<wisesnake> [whites around the edges of her eyes]
Nemip jerks his arms free.
Briel augments into the room
wisesnake forgets appearances and runs in the direction of the scream
Turrie zlins closely - looking for any sign of development
Briel zlinning, skids to a stop next to Nemip
NickR pounds along behind, looking very unprofessional and not caring.
<Briel> What's happened?
wisesnake sees a door open and zlins a changeover... bursts into the room [protecting the ambient from unfavorable impact automatically]
Tamlen comes up behind Briel to support with out blocking zlinnage of Nemip.
Turrie picks up Nemip and holds him on her lap - taking contact again
<Briel> Let me... Snake?
Briel turns seeing Snake
<wisesnake> I....
Nemip curls around his arms in a fetal position.
<Turrie> Nemip - Nemip - we are here help you
Briel nods to Snake
wisesnake realizes she has absolutely no reasonable explanation for why she is here
Briel motions with a tentacle for her to come forward
NickR manages to stop in the right place to support Snake.
wisesnake looks at the kid in Turrie's arms and blanches when the face is the same one
Turrie looks helplessly at the tiny underformed tentacles laying damply and uselessly on his arms
Turrie looks up at Briel
<wisesnake> ~~need to help~~
Turrie sees Snake
Briel zlinning
Turrie looks down at the child again and places him in transfer position
wisesnake hovers behind them, frustrated and somehow desperate
Turrie makes 5th contact and attempts to force selyn into the newborn Sime
Alea moves closer supporting Turrie.
<Turrie> [live damn it live]
wisesnake moves closer
<wisesnake> ~~Gen need-to-give~~
wisesnake zlins
Nemip feels a throbbing life just out of reach, and pushes Turrie aside to lunge for it.
<wisesnake> ~~~offering~~~
Nemip 's new tentacles scrabble feebly for the proper grip.
wisesnake 's tentacles seize hold of Nemip's arms firmly and her laterals seeks his, entwining
<wisesnake> ~~strength/shining~~
Briel zlins the turn of events
Nemip completes the contact and tries desperately to consume the throbbing life source.
wisesnake opens herself to Nemip's attempt to draw
Nemip gets a trickle of selyn, and eager seeks more.
<wisesnake> ~~offering/joy~~
Nemip is able to increase the flow a little bit, but it isn't enough.
wisesnake thinks, forgive me
wisesnake gently takes control and forces the selyn to flow slightly faster
Nemip 's underdeveloped laterals struggle to take the load.
Alea supports Turrie, moving closer
Alea ~~ support encouragement ~~~
wisesnake knows it must hurt him, but also must not burn him out
Briel moves back bumping into Tamlen
NickR keeps a rock-solid bubble of attention surrounding Snake and her patient, not wanting any fluctuations in the ambient to distract Snake at the wrong moment.
wisesnake attempts to pinpoint the exact balance between.
Tamlen moves back, keeping attention focused on supporting Briel.
Nemip finds getting the life is becoming less painful as his laterals adjust to the demand. 3
Nemip thinks that this is actually starting to feel pretty good.
Rebekha enters the lobby and approaches the clerk.
<wisesnake> ~~ strength/glory in giving ~~
Nemip grabs a bit more, then finds himself full.
<Rebekha> "I'm here for a donation. [nervous]
clerk looks up at Rebekha and smiles kindly, trying to dispel the nervousness
clerk pulls out the appropriate forms and hands them to Rebekha
Nemip finds himself holding a person he can't recall seeing before.
Alea lays a hand on Turrie's shoulder to increase support
<Nemip> Who are you?
<clerk> Here... just fill these out, and bring them back here... you can sit over there.
wisesnake remains still
<wisesnake> Hello. I'm Hajene Farris.
Nemip thinks that maybe he shouldn't be clutching at this stranger so tightly and tries to let go.
Nemip has a bit of trouble trying to untangle his tentacles, because they don't really move the way he anticipates.
<wisesnake> ~~~calming/support~~~
Rebekha looks at the forms and takes them, then looks back at the place indicated.
Alea ~~ relief joy ~~
<wisesnake> Congratulations, ... [realizes she has no clue what the kid's name is]
<wisesnake> Well, congratulations. You're all grown up now.
Briel reaches back for Tamlen, taking his hand and squeezing. ~~ relief ~~ ~~ concern ~~~
Rebekha goes to a chair and begins to fill out the forms.
clerk works on some paperwork, busy as a little bee
Nemip 's sick feeling and the gnawing emptiness, as well as the hallucinations, are gone, so he figures that the worst is over.
<Tamlen> ~~ glad ~~
Nemip looks down at the tentacles on his arm and realizes that the worst is just beginning.
Briel rubs a hand down her face, thinking she'll certainly have something to celebrate after transfer
<wisesnake> ~~~soothing/calming/encouragement~~~
Nemip starts crying.
<wisesnake> There are people to help you get started on your new life here.. find friends, get a job, get a place to live. And you can write a letter to your parents letting them know you are all right, if you like.
<wisesnake> There, there.
wisesnake takes Nemip gently in her arms
<wisesnake> Everything will be just fine.
Nemip doesn't object to Snake's holding him, figuring that the damage is already done.
Tamlen whispers in Briel's ear "Does this mean I get to finish my story?" ~~ humor ~~
<wisesnake> ~~support/belief/encouragement~~
Briel looks sideways and smiles.
wisesnake pats Nemip's back
Nemip is still pretty groggy from the sedative.
<Briel> He'll have the best report out of anyone.
<Briel> Faith Day. Looks like that's what saved his life.
<Briel> Had he not come here for a report...
Briel trails off, remembering her own experience.
Briel thinks this one wouldn't have made it
Nemip nods off to sleep.
wisesnake lays Nemip down gently
Nemip is now known as snoring
wisesnake stands
<Tamlen> But he did.
wisesnake suddenly remembers how she came to be here and looks green [manages to keep it out of her nager]
<wisesnake> I have to go sit down.
Turrie` looks at Snake strangely
wisesnake pushes her way out of the room
<Briel> Yeah. He did.
NickR follows, concerned.
wisesnake looks for some place horizontal that isn't the floor
<Briel> Well, then. I don't think we're required here.
NickR sees an empty donation room next door, and steers Snake into it.
<Briel> Do you want to sit with him, Tamlen? Or do you want to leave?
<wisesnake> this place is a shenned maze.
wisesnake lets Nick lead her
NickR leads Snake over to the lounge and helps her lie down on it, then locks the door so they won't be disturbed.
<Gnome`> [ snow swirls around a stone face that has not moved but seems to be smiling somehow ]
wisesnake stares at the Gnome's face, breathing faster
Gnome` fades again.
wisesnake breaks out in a sweat
NickR sits by Snake's side, projecting a centering calm.
wisesnake uses the strength of Nick's field
<Tamlen> Sure. Kid's been through a lot.
Briel nods
<Briel> Thanks
NickR squeezes in beside Snake on the lounge, to maximize the contact.
wisesnake is glad Nick is not asking any difficult questions
Briel turns and leaves the room.
clerk glances up at Rebekha
<clerk> Do you have any questions, dear?
Alea continues to support Turrie
Rebekha looks up. "No. I'm all right."
clerk smiles
<clerk> Just checking.
clerk goes back to the paperwork
<Rebekha> ~ high field, steady nager ~
Tamlen goes to sit with Nemip.
Alea sees Turrie leave and leaves to allow the young new sime to sleep
Briel strides into the lobby to help donations get caught up
clerk carefully hides her Solitaire cards under several sheafs of paper
clerk writes busily
Briel walks up to clerk and picks up the papers
<Briel> Rebekha?
Briel looks up for the donor
Rebekha looks up then stands.
Briel motions with a tentacle
<Briel> How are you today?
<Rebekha> Fine.
Briel turns toward the donation rooms
<Briel> This is your first time donating?
Rebekha hands her the forms
Briel looks at the form to see.
<Rebekha> No. I've been a donor for a year.
<Briel> I see.
Briel opens a donation room door, motions her in, then smiles.
clerk waits the appropriate amount of time; as soon as Briel is past the edge of the insulated wall, slips the papers aside and resumes the Solitaire game again
<clerk> ~~contentment~~
Alea walks up behind Clerk
<Alea> Red ten on the black jack
Briel goes over to the lounger.
<Briel> Please, have a seat.
clerk starts wildly, throwing her cards up into the air
Alea jumps, gasping
Rebekha follows and takes a seat.
clerk clutches her heart and looks at Alea indignantly
<clerk> Thank you.
<Alea> ah well... I guess that game's lost.
Alea smiles blandly
<Briel> So, tell me, you've been donating a year.
clerk gets up and begins to crawl under and around the desk, picking up various cards
<Briel> I don't think I've ever taken your donation before, have I?
Alea reaches down and grabs one half down clerk's collar
<Alea> Here we go.
<Alea> Oh, red ten.
Alea smiles
<Rebekha> Yes. I'm from Spring Falls.
<Briel> Ah, I see.
<Rebekha> And no, you haven't.
<Briel> Well then, let's see about doing this donation.
<Rebekha> I'm on my way to Householding Tien.
Briel scribbles on the chart and tosses it aside.
<Briel> Are you really?
wisesnake feels funny about lounging around at the Sime Center, and gets up as soon as she is able
<wisesnake> Come on, Nick, let's get out of here.
<Rebekha> yes
Alea pulls a card out of Clerk's hair and hands it to her.
<Briel> What are you going there for?
clerk glares at Alea and snatches the card
<clerk> THANK you.
Alea covers a laugh
clerk returns to her seat with a self righteous air, puts the cards back in their pack, and puts them away
<clerk> ~~clinging to shreds of dignity~~
<Alea> I'll just go over here and check the boards
<clerk> You do that.
Alea rubs her lower back and walks over to the boards
clerk makes a mental note to totally rearrange Alea's part of the boards again.. maybe floor scrubbing this time, since she has probably gotten good at filing
<Rebekha> I've been invited to join the House however I need to lower my field before traveling further.
<Briel> Of course.
wisesnake slips out of the donation room, motions to Nick, and tiptoes toward the rear of the Sime Center
Briel reaches out for Rebekha, extending tentacles
<Briel> We certainly don't want you traveling that far like this.
<Briel> And we can use the selyn.
Briel smiles through her need.
<Briel> I haven't met my quota for the week. I want to be in first place and win the matching towels.
wisesnake realizes leaving by the rear would mean seeing the Gnome; pales, and reverses directions to tiptoe back toward the front of the Center
<wisesnake> [a patient Nick follows]
Rebekha giggles. "Well I certainly wouldn't want you to go without towels.
Alea sees the schedule and then turns to go check on the sleeping patient.
<Briel> Good. With your field, that should just about guarantee my spot.
Briel takes Rebekha's arms in her grip.
<Alea> Snake!
Rebekha relaxes.
Alea pauses, smiling.
wisesnake flinches
<wisesnake> Hello, Alea.
wisesnake attempts to smile
<Alea> I have to ask...
<Alea> how did you know...?
wisesnake grimaces
Briel pulls Rebekha forward gently, making lip after seating the laterals
<wisesnake> Well... I suppose you have a right to know.
<Alea> I don't necessarily have a right, but I'd like to know.
wisesnake looks and zlins carefully in both directions, then draws Alea aside
<wisesnake> Nick... go stand over there for a moment.
Alea likes secrets and goes willingly
wisesnake waits until Nick is out of earshot
<wisesnake> Do you remember when Veraik fell, and the thorn punctured his lateral?
Briel begins to draw, carefully taking the lower levels of Rebekha's field.
<Alea> Yes.
<wisesnake> And remember how I got there so quickly?
Briel is very pleased since she has been a nervous wreck today... and draws the mid levels
<Alea> Yes...
Alea curious
<Alea> It's one of those....
Alea remembers her own vision and pales
Briel draws the upper levels, testing carefully, taking as much as possible before finally sitting back and smiling.
wisesnake thinks it is probably not necessary - and certainly not desirable - to say more
<Briel> There we go.
<Alea> I understand.
wisesnake nods with relief
<Alea> You know, it, that picture... remember?
wisesnake hesitates
Briel retracts her laterals then loosens her tentacled hold on Rebekha
<wisesnake> Which one?
<Alea> Of... Tarsh. The... you know... seeing the vision I drew of him.
<Alea> That's like what happened to you.
Rebkha waits patiently for Briel.
<Briel> How was that?
Briel let's go and snags the chart
wisesnake is not familiar with the drawing in question
<wisesnake> I see.
Rebkha smiles. "It was fine. I didn't feel a thing."
<Rebkha> Thank you.
<Briel> Good.
<wisesnake> wait a minute... the one of the excision?
Alea nods, then shudders
Briel scribbles up a voucher and then passes it to Rebekha
Briel makes several notations on her chart.
<wisesnake> That almost happened to him?
Rebkha takes the voucher.
<Alea> It was his needmare. We somehow... connected through it.
<Alea> My point being, that I understand... odd... things happening.
<wisesnake> Ah.
Alea shrugs, a little embarrassed and uneasy about discussing things of this nature.
wisesnake thinks the less that is said about these things, the better
<Briel> It's just down the hall there.
wisesnake is just as pleased that Alea seems to feel the same way
<wisesnake> Well, enough of that then.
<Briel> Do you have your chart going to Tien? I'm sure they'll want this too.
Rebkha stands and leaves the room.
Briel copies a quick copy and then gives it to Rebekha as she leaves.
<Alea> Agreed
Alea ~~ relief ~~
Rebkha takes the copy. "Thanks Briel."
clerk slides the deck of cards out of her desk drawer and lays out a nice game of Solitaire, after looking carefully in both directions
Rebkha goes to the cashier before continuing her trip.
<Alea> Well then, I should let you go.
<Alea> And Snake... Um, I won't mention this to anyone.
<wisesnake> Good. ~~relief~~
wisesnake and Nick leave the Sime Center
Alea goes to her office
Notes:
1) This series of events is established Sime/Gen universe background and took place in the published novels. [return]
2) Snake is referring to an argument between Snake and Nick which was followed by Snake firing Nick and the two avoiding each other for several days. [return]
3) Nemip's player's theory is that prematurely broken-out Simes, like premature babies, continue to develop afterward. [return]