Okomi

[Chris Chandler]

He shrugs, but starts heading up, you following. You can immediately hear shouts from folks searching the penthouse suite. They'll be there until you reach roof access.

The roof itself is not particularly accessible. This is where the cooling tower is, as well as the backup generator and other unwieldy construction. You do, however, see the small, two-man helicopter on a postage stamp of a landing pad. J.M. looks around and quietly moves towards it. You sense it too. There may be someone up here.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

....Not a good feeling this is......

I'll keep low and move slowly as well as quietly as I can. While I look around for who my be watching us or waiting for us.

(Is there a bunch of piping and metal work up here by the back generator?)

[Chris Chandler]

There is a bit, but aside from the ventilation near the center of the roof, there isn't any metalwork. The vents even have covers.

Your caution pays off, and you both choose to take the long way around, and you see two uniformed TechTite employees, armed with submachine guns. They are watching the normal approach to the helicopter, but they don't seem to hear either of you. The taller is smoking a cigarette while the shorter is checking his cell phone for messages.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Hey J, what you think we should do. I don't think jumping them is a good idea, but a distraction might. If you know how to work that helicopter then I might be able to give you an opening to get to it."

Ill look around the roof again from where we are and see how I might be able to use either the cooling tower or the generator as a good distraction, depending on how far they are from the helicopter.

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. nods and hunkers down while you plan your distraction.

The cooling tower is closer to the center of the building, and you are on the northwest corner. The two guards are leaning next to a generator. They are about 30 feet from the helicopter itself.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill try and get to the other side of the generator from them, quietly. If unnoticed I'm going to test the extent of my new power and try to get it to leap out and act kind of like a Taser, and hopefully ignite the ammunition as well.

Dex-12 Roll- 9
Control-14 Rolled-7

[Chris Chandler]

You reach the spot easily enough. The guards are talking about the Oakland As game from last night. They apparently won, but both men are complaining about the quality of the team nonetheless.

You touch the generator and are lucky that J.M moved far enough away. The generator nearly explodes, and you can feel an arc of electricity pass through about 10 feet. Quickly you move to where the men were standing, and they are on the ground. You can't tell if they are breathing or not, but they are not moving.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

....Wow. I know electricity isn't very controllable in nature, but how much of this was me? I'll ask J later if he saw anything. This power seems to be hard to examine....

I'll make a dash for the Helicopter were J should be, and if he is already in it trying to take off I'll jump in as well.

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. has already climbed in the cockpit and is going over his checklist prior to takeoff. He's moving quickly enough, and as you climb in, the engine is starting up, and the blades are starting to turn.

It'll take a little over a minute to get going, and those guards'll be up in less time than that. Here, you'll need to pin them down.

He hands you a pistol - it's a Colt 1911 model .45, not that you'd know it from a .22. He shows you quickly what to do so that you don't hurt yourself and points in the direction of the roof access port

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Alright, I already knew that. But I get what your saying."

Ill head over to the access port and get ready to pop a few shoots down when I see some guards till J motions me over to leave.

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. nods and continues his preparations.

You are immediately confronted with three guards who are exiting the access door, but you don't think that they see you yet. They moved more quickly to the roof than you anticipated!

You send a few shots in the direction of the guards (with no worries about actually hitting them, and two of the three retreat back to the stairwell, while one moves to the back of the access port, gaining some cover.

You have six shots left in the pistol.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill fire a shot at who ever tries to get closer or when they peak out from cover.Just wanting to hold them off long enough. If I run out of bullets I'll summon up some fire and try to throw it.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

(In comparison to where I am, the helicopter, and the men are, where is the cooling tower among us? If its between the access and me, then I'll try to rupture it so the pressure will make it explode. In hopes that it'll be a huge distraction for them.)

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

You actually do not run out of ammo. The other three seem to have left the rooftop (perhaps taking a different route?), and the second you have pinned down. He takes a few shots at you, as well, but you have good cover.

J.M. signals you to move to the 'copter, and you move forward. The last guard takes the opportunity to send a hail of bullets your way and you get hit in your right shoulder. You reach the helicopter standing, though.

J.M. takes off, the last guard still shooting at you, and you can see that the other three went to the ruined penthouse and were waiting for you to leave the roof. The helicopter takes a few hits, but it's only small arms fire and nothing critical was hit. J.M. swoops off the roof and heads out.

Well, that was certainly an adventure. I can only imagine that my home is in the same shape. What now?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well first off I'd like to make sure my contacts are ok. Many Ann and Maria that is."

...Gah! this hurts....

Ill apply pressure as best I can on the wound.

[Chris Chandler]

Well, since J.M. already wanted to meet Marriane, you'll head there. He'll actually land the helicopter in the same spot where you ditched the sub, so you have a sort of stable for your vehicles, but he'll let you off before you reach the island. He gives you his AMEX Centurion card and instructs you to head to a nearby arena to pick up a watercraft so that you can be a bit more mobile. He tells you to ask for Hettie, who is a friend of his. He also gives you a phrase for when you speak to Hettie - "Marmalade eyes".

You are able to hop out of the helicopter down to the ground and are in front of a large showroom with several light watercraft (various motor boats and jet skis).

What do you do?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

...Well guess this Hettie is a reliable source for J....

Ill follow his instructions best I can. I'll head to the Arena, find the first person and ask them if Hettie's in.

[Chris Chandler]

Hettie is short, heavyset older woman with dyed black hair and thick glasses over an overly made-up face. She wears a garish shiny jade-green running suit (never been used!) and greets you with a Dahling.

She will take little convincing, as this has arrangement is well understood. The only real question now is, what vessel do you want, Okomi?

((Research it and consider a reasonable budget - no 15 mil $ yachts, please.))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((LOL. Why I never would go for the 15 mill Yacht.... >.>))

I want (http://forademo.com/aciwbs/?p=14) with a Jet-ski. Boat straight factory 825,000 dollars, but gives us a kind of Base of where ever we fill like and use the Jet-ski to go back and forth. Jet-ski cost about 8,000 for a 2 seater. Rough estimates on those XD.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

If that's to much I'll go for the 10,000 dollar Cabin Boat that suits one. XD

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

Hettie will be happy to ring you up. To your satisfaction, the credit card is still good, so whomever's been wanting J.M. dead has cut his credit yet.

You'll spend the rest of the afternoon ungoing a rather comprehensive boating safety course conducted by the marina staff. It is actually pretty rigorous considering the short timeframe, and you are given about a ream of paper's worth of reference material (that should stay on the boat). Last, but not least, you are given an examination, so that you can actually steer this boat from the marina without being arrested.

((Let's see an IQ roll, if you please))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

(IQ my best stat XD. Witch one did i get? the Muti-Cabin boat and ski or the Cabin boat)

IQ-14
Rolled-10

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

((The one in the picture.))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Well after being taught I'll head off to go pick up J.M.

[Chris Chandler]

The instruction goes well, and you feel comfortable enough using the craft that you are able to navigate the bay rather well. You head back to the island where you left the submarine, and where J.M. has landed the helicopter. Now all you need is a cave and a fancy costume!

J.M. sees you approach.

Quite nice! So, are you ready to visit Marianne?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Quite cheerful," Yes, Indeed! This thing handles like a beauty. But I figured this would suit are needs for the future. What do you think?" I'll Motion him to come over and take a look.

[Chris Chandler]

He nods -

Yes, I think this will do. What I need to do now is to see about reworking some of this older equipment here... I'm getting ahead of myself. The card you used was tied to one of my... alternate accounts, which does not seem to be compromised. I'm already trying to think a few steps ahead about countering Mr. Kim's machinations, but we do, indeed, have some people to see first. Let's away to your Ms. Leslie.

He hops on the boat, but insists that you pilot. He even calls it your boat in conversation.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"And that we do. So, I think this call for a little haste."

Ill head off insisting he help navigate where to go, Unless she taught that as well, and then I'd ask for his confirmation.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"My guess is that they both may be at the College. That's usually where they are this time of day."

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill navigate the map hopefully with J.M.'s help and head off toward the college.

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

((Sorry for the delay))

You head off toward where Marianne teaches. UCSF is a small, closed campus, but security is lax and you easily enter the grounds.

Where would you like to look for her? It's about 3 o'clock in the afternoon.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Looks around, then to J.M "I don't know where Marianne teaches. Do you? If not then maybe check the office."

[Vash The Stampide]

bump

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. is already heading to the administration building and enters. He reaches an information desk and politely asks in what building Dr. Leslie's office is. The pretty student (who gives you a quick smiling glance) provides the information quickly, writing it on a post-it.

Okay, we're only a block away. She's over here in the Humanities building. I hope that this is straightforward. I'm getting a bit too old for snipe hunts.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi_

Smiling back at the girl and waving, then catches what J.M. said. "Oh, really? I knew that, But we should be careful. Mary Ann might kick your butt if you sneak up on her."

Then I follow him there

[Chris Chandler]

It takes only a few minutes. The Humanities building is a sort of catch-all for all of the non Fine Arts disciplines on campus, and Archeology is on the third floor, nestled between Anthropology, Sociology, and Art History. There is a secretary on this floor for all four departments, and she'll direct you to the office, though she says it's rarely used.

Dr. Leslie prefers to work from home.

You reach the office - a solid heavy oak door with all of her course syllabii and a calendar of events. There is also a poster for an upcoming classical concert. You will notice that the door is just barely ajar, and it looks like the door's been jimmied open.

J.M. notices this two, and moves a few steps to unobtrusively take watch while you take a look inside.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill move up to the door stand to the side and listen before pushing the door open slowly.

[Chris Chandler]

You hear nothing and are able to push the door open without issue. The office is small and cramped and, at first, the room seems reminiscent of her home - piles of books and paper. The difference here is that it is not organized chaos. Someone has been here and has rifled through the place. Books are scattered on the floor, and her office chair is tipped over. There is no way of telling what might be missing, obviously.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll head back over to J.M. "The place has be ransacked. I think we should check her house. She might be there, or in trouble."

Then head out to get to her house causing the least amount of suspicion.

[Chris Chandler]

You and J.M. head out with J.M. stopping quickly to leave a note with the secretary, and you quickly move toward Marianne's townhouse. Let's make a perception check as you head out, if you please.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Per= 17 (21-with hearing)
Roll= 8

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, you can tell that you are being tailed, but you can't make out who it is. You'll make it to Marianne's safely.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Whispered to J.M. "Some ones following us." But upon arriving I'll look around for a place to jump who might be following us.

[Chris Chandler]

You arrive at the townhouse and you notice that the door is open, just barely. Like the door wasn't shut all the way. You hear movement from the inside. Also, you don't see your follower anymore.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll carefully approach the door looking to J.M. as I stand to the side of the door, and taking a hold of the door handle. Then motion to J.M. That Im going to open the door. After witch I swing the door open fast, and taking any motions to take cover if its anything but Mary Ann

[Chris Chandler]

Sounds good -

Okay, you open the door, and it looks much like her office. Now then, I'll need a perception check, both visual and auditory.

[Vash The Stampide]

Roll- 11

Listening= 21
Seeing= 17

[Chris Chandler]

First - you will immediately catch sight of Marianne. She's laying down on the floor, not moving. There is a bookshelf on top of her, and the books that had been stored there are scattered about her.

Second - whomever or whatever is following you is moving to intercept, quietly and quickly. The reason it is doing so is because it thinks that it is in a pincer motion. There is another assailant within the house moving quickly and quietly to your position. You do not see it, but you can hear it.

J.M. looks at you uneasily -

What could have caused such a mess? Those shelves were screwed in! This is just awful.

He doesn't see Marianne, or realize the ambush!

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

First, I will shove J.M back outside the room and then face the direction I think the ambush is coming from and start creating some fire to protect myself with.

Create roll-9 Will-14
Control roll-11 Will-14

Wanting to make a barrier between me and the unseen assailant.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, you push J.M. aside, and he will immediately come up against the thing that was following you - you hear a grunts and you have the immediate sense of grappling behind you. You move forward and *fwoosh* a wall of fire lines the entry to the kitchen. You hear a growl, and then more insistent steps moving around the back hallway (through the dining room and living room and back to the main hall) You have less than 10 seconds before whatever was in the kitchen is face to face with you.

Marianne is about 10 feet away from you, and is trapped under a heavy mohagany bookcase. Oh, the flames from your wall are spreading along the carpet and the ceiling. You also hear the crackle of paper as a few books become kindling.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll start moving to intercept and clothesline him as it comes around the corner.

[Chris Chandler]

Well you move in and then you see "him" (you aren't sure that it sees you). Remember the creature in the future, that you couldn't really see, well, you can see this one. It's roughly the size of a man, but has short black fur and the face of a panther. It's hands look more like heavily clawed paws, and it is loping toward you in a sort of four legged pace. It is not trying to get away. It is looking for the kill. It's too low to the ground to clothesline.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll try and focus and pull in the fire spreading in the room and move it toward its and my location.

Roll- 11

[Chris Chandler]

With some effort you manage to bring the fire to you, though it doesn't exactly leave it's old location. You really just forced it to spread fast.

The upshot is that you spread the wall right to the beast, and you are sure that did not leap back in time. You singed fur, at the very least, and it mewls in pain. It dashes back and you hear it taking the stairs.

You hear the sounds of struggle behind you starting to lessen. It seems that J.M. did not put up much of a fight. You hear Marianne groaning.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Knowing I will need help I'll rush to intervene on the fight outside with J.M.

[Chris Chandler]

You bolt outside and see J.M. on his back, fending off the large creature with what looks to be a collapsable baton. The creature is biting and snatching at J.M., and is wearing him down. It isn't paying you any mind quite yet. Even out here you can hear the second creature running upstairs. You don't have alot of time.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll try and make an attempt to walk over and break its neck the best way I can since hes not paying attention to me. Quickly I might add.

[Chris Chandler]

You move toward the creature and attempt to grapple him and you find yourself quickly on your back at the bottom of the steps leading up to the stoop. You didn't get the wind knocked out of you, thankfully, but you are a bit shaken - it just tossed you off like an old coat.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll then go inside to try and focus bringing the in fire to surround me. In perpetration to attack that creature

Roll-3 (yes I'm serious)

Will- 14

[Chris Chandler]

You manage to pull the fire away and onto you. The rest of the house is smouldering (and there is far too much smoke within the house - it's about to be untenable), and you are aflame. You'll notice that there are a few motorists that have stopped and have pulled out cell phones.

J.M. staggers to his feet as the creature turns its attention to you. He considers heading into the house, but the smoke is getting to thick.

The creature lunges at you, but pulls short, frightened of the flame.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll begin to brawl with the creature trying to make it flee but making sure to work on it fast so that I can get back to Mary Ann

[Chris Chandler]

The strange beast shies away from your attempted brawl, and works to dodge inside. You are able to clip it with a kick as it lunges into the house, and spinning you can see that it's heading straight for Marianne. You can hear the other creature bounding down the stairs.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill dart in and try to cut off the creature, but on the way in looking to J.M. "Go get the water hose we'll need it."

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. hops off the stoop and over behind the shrubs. You see a few people have gathered on the other side of the street now.

You move to cut off the creature and see that the second creature is halfway down the stairwell, which is low enough for it to reach the bookshelf trapping Marriane. It reaches down and move the shelf enough that the other creature moves in to grab her. You can attempt to wrest her away, if you wish.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Making a run in to grab Mary Ann, I want to expand the flames in the creatures areas hoping to scare them long enough to run off with her.

[Chris Chandler]

Well, I suppose it's going to be a luck roll, because the both of you are going to get there simultaneously. One could grab her, or you both could.

[Vash The Stampide]

so call a number and roll three d6?

if so then Ill call 10 for luck, and Jess is my wittiness

Roll-3 >< wasted

[Chris Chandler]

Okay... Luck rolls are tricky, but a 3 is always something special. No need to punish you for that.

Firstly, you don't get there first. The creature grabs Marianne, and she groans unconciously. Then the creature catches fire, drops Marianne and stars rolling around on the carpet, trying to extinguish itself. It also managed to unwedge Marianne from the bookshelf, so you won't have to struggle to pull her free.

You can hear sirens in the distance. With your ears that means that you have a few moments, but not long.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill grab her and use up all my strength to move her outside to J.M.

"J help me get her away from her. Then will take her to a clinic or a friend."

[Chris Chandler]

JM reaches out for her and grabs hold of her wrist and gets her in a fireman's carry and over to the motorcycle (what else is going to be stored on a yacht?). You can tell that she is barely conscious. He hops on and scoots as far as he can forward, and you are on the edge of the back, with Marianne in the middle. He heads out, with a few people trying to wave you down, though they won't stop you. You head out and go to Maria's, though you'll have to wait until she comes home. Anything you want to do until then?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

After arriving at Maria's I'll tend to Mary Anne's wounds

Roll- 5

First Aid-14

[Chris Chandler]

An excellent attempt with first aid. She has breathed in too much smoke, but looks like she'll recover. She is unconcious right now.

[Chris Chandler]

((August))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Man I wonder what those things are? You have an idea J.M?" *still tending to Mary Ann and waiting and looking out for Maria to show up.

[Chris Chandler]

J.M. shrugs and replies -

Well, they looked sort of like people, and sort of like... cats... big cats, like black panthers.

Maria glances up and says hmm...

She paces toward her bookshelf and then back -

No, it'd be in her library, if it's still there. What do you mean, 'like black panthers'?

She's looking toward you, Okomi.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Um, like upright walking Panthers imitating humans."

Imitates the creautre*

[Chris Chandler]

Maria nods, and speaks -

Yes, that sounds right. Marianne would be better equipped to describe the folklore, of course, but what you are describing is a forvalaka... um sort of a were-panther, like a lycanthrope... I mean... you know a wolf-man, only a "panther-man"... only they are panthers that pretend to be men, not men... Stop looking at me like I'm crazy.

J.M., indeed, has such a look on his face.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"I'm not looking at you like your crazy. I know what your saying. So now we just need to wait out till Mary Ann wakes to ask her about it."

[Chris Chandler]

It will be a while. You and J.M. are actually able to settle in while Maria makes a few phone calls. It won't take long, but then you hear footsteps up the drive, a man's footsteps from the sound of it. You only hear one person, but you can tell that he is talking to someone on a phone, but you can't make out what he saying, because it is in Spanish.

Any reaction, or will you wait for his approach? J.M. doesn't seem to hear him.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Ill try to slip back and hide so to go unseen when he approaches and let J.M. handle it. But if things look hair even for an instance I'll make a move

Will camo work? Camoe=15
Int=14
Dex=12
Roll= 9

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, you... move back to the back of the front room, which is only lit by a lamp, and are obscured by shadows. The man comes to the door, rings the doorbell, and Maria scampers to answer. She smiles, hugs the man, and speaks rapid-fire in Spanish to him. You don't know what's being said, but you can recognize Marianne's name.

The man is wearing street clothes (an untucked short-sleeved dress shirt with no tie, khakis and loafers) and is carrying a haversack on his shoulder. He sees J.M., and introduces himself.

Hey! I'm Dr. Cortez. You can call me Hernando. I'm Maria's brother. Pleased to meet you.

J.M. introduces himself and the two walk toward where Marianne is. Maria looks in the corner in which you are sitting and scowls at you, then does the Momma "come here" finger.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((MEOWWWWW!!!))

I'll walk out and over to the man, extending my hand for a shake, "Hey. Nice to meet you, Hernado. I am Okomi. Your a doctor you say? Well as the situation is (all of what happened to Mary Anne and what I was able to come up with during my first aid)."

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez listens carefully to your diagnosis and seems to agree with most everything.

As he examines Marianne, though, he frowns.

She's been drugged. Look, here -

He shows her neck. You see a small pinprick, swollen around the hole. It doesn't look very different from a bug bite.

Yeah, she's out for the count. I don't know what it is that was put in her, so I don't dare put anything else in here, outside of something to... purge the system, so they say. How long ago was it since you found her?

J.M. tells Dr. Cortez it's been about an hour, which is a pretty good estimate.

Alright. Well -

He continuing his examination -

Her heart's not going crazy and... her... pressure seems alright.

He opens one of her eyes. They are rolled back in her head and twitching.

Interesting. She's not out, like deep out. it's more like she's in REM sleep, like she's dreaming. Wonder what's going on. Of the meds that induce REM or... encourage fuller sleep, like mirtazapine, none are exactly instant onset.

Maria says something quickly to him in Spanish, and he looks hard at J.M., and then at you, Okomi -

So... tell me what you saw.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"What I saw when? At her home just about an hour ago?" Scratching my head not sure when. "I have seen and done a lot in the past few days."

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez looks at you impatiently, but you can tell that it isn't you that's causing his irritation, but rather that it looks like he's had a hectic day.

The fire. What did you see at the fire?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Oh. Well I started the fire, cause it scares them for some reason, them being the cat folks. The bookshelf was already on top of her at this time and the creatures were going straight for her. I tried to help but not able, and fought the things as best we can and eventually got her away from them." Now getting some more air for breathing.

[Chris Chandler]

You nearly burnt that block down? What in the hell? How in the hell did - Why in the hell did you waste your time starting some effing fire when you should have been. You know what? I don't even know why I'm yelling at you. Do you even understand what you did?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"I know.... To try and save Mary Anne.... Yeah I know." Slowly drifting off to the side looking toward J.M. while hes yelling at me. "But maybe you could enlighten as to what I did." Now looking back at him listening intently.

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez shakes his head and throws his head up.

Oh, the ends justify the means, I suppose. "Sure, I burned down her house to rescue her from creatures who were bound to protect her, but hey, she's mostly safe, outside of the burns and the smoke inhalation."

J.M. interjects -

What do you mean, "bound to protect?" They certainly weren't being very friendly to us.

Because you were trying to burn her house down!

No, they attacked us before Okomi went "flame on".

Were you at the busted door, Marianne on the ground?

Sure...

Well, they considered you a threat!

How do you know they were her protectors?

I know Marianne a little bit better than you, and - Wait, what'd you mean about "flame on"?

He turns back toward you, Okomi. Maria looks uneasy, and J.M. shakes his head briefly.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Ah, now that would explain a bit of what I had gathered. To his comment about "flame on" is about this." I'll immolate myself. Will-14, Roll-8. "This is what you were talking about right J?" (Not wanting to set anything else on fire)

[Chris Chandler]

You catch yourself on fire. Maria shakes her head, eyes wide, and Dr. Cortez throws his hands up and says -

You don't have to burn another house down to prove your point!

JM interjects -

I'll pay for the carpet.

Dr. Cortez continues (after you "flame off, hopefully") -

So, you have some sort of... ability. I've met some people... with talents over the years. I've a good friend that would be interested in meeting you, likely... though... he's in a bit of trouble right now.

Maria looks at Dr. Cortez hard, and says something in Spanish. Dr. Cortez nods and replies -

Perhaps you are right.

He turns back to you.

So... What are you trying to do right now. I mean, you've met one of the pillars of the community just before what seems like a military attack on his company headquarters. They're calling it a terrorist attack. What is going on, and how are you and JM and Marianne and my cousin involved?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll take a seat on the floor, cross my legs, then take a deep breathe and slowly exhales. "Well, let me start and after, you tell me what you think is the cause. So, I came here to California, after leaving my reservation. Then I came across a man who wore dog tags and he was apart of a gang of thugs. They attacked our bus heading into the state. He leaves after I foiled his attempts to have a smooth operation. Later, he followed me in town, unknown to me, and caught me well I was there in my room of the hotel. In the mean time between following me and capturing me, I meet Marianne at the library. She helped me get an appointment with J.M. J.M. is the descendant of the man I saw in my vision, while here in town.

Now back to the being captured part, I escaped and ran into Maria. She took me back to Marianne witch she happen to knew. Then the three of us went on a trip across the ocean and back. Then we were attacked by men Maria knew, and then we settled things with that for the meantime. Then, I went off to find out more about the man in my visions and that lead to J.M. J.M. told me about someone who could possibly amplify my ability with visions. That was Mr. Kim, but come to find out he sent me into the future to deceive me into thinking that his descendant was to be protected. But in reality she was the one I needed to stop, because she is the one that is going to cause the rift in the future. That will lead to those me in cloaks killing J.M. and my ancestor. So....... that's what I have for you to begin with......."

I'll set my head in my hand propping it up waiting for his response.

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez takes a look at Maria, and then at J.M., who nods wearily.

Mr Kim? Do you mean Mr. Yong Sook Kim?

J.M. looks surprised, and Maria speaks up -

The businessman?

Dr. Cortez and J.M. laugh, and say in unison -

The gangster.

J.M. confirms Dr. Cortez's question, and the Dr. Cortez looks back toward you.

Okay, so travelling to the future, fighting off thugs, dealing with crime-bosses. So, had a nice visit to our fair city? What else has happened?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Rubbing my chin for a sec pondering, "Yea that is about everything so far. Except if you want to know what happened when I was smaller. Well guess I might as well since I've gone this far." I'll take a deep breathe and exhale. "When I was born, I didn't have a father. I was made fun of and picked at all of my childhood until I went on my vision quest, which all teenagers must. While out on the quest, I ran into Coyote the spirit. He began to tell me that I was to become the new Coyote spirit, and merge himself into me. That is when I began to notice that I had these powers. So, I am trying to learn how to master them and take on the responsibility he gave me. So......is there anything else you want to know?"

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez nods -

So, you're Coyote's son. That's some bad luck right there, man. Well, I suppose you've seen that already, right?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"That?" Looking clueless.

[Chris Chandler]

The bad luck, right?

Dr. Cortez pauses for a moment.

Maybe you recognize them not as pieces of bad luck, but rather as opportunities.

J.M. laughs and nods his head.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Cause that's what they all are." Now grinning, "Who is this person you talked about that has similar powers though? Because I think I might want to meet them." Sitting and giving time for Mary Anne to wake.

[Chris Chandler]

Oh, that's army buddy John and his friend, Ginger. He's got... I don't know what you would call it. You'd have to meet him. Ginger's got something going too. She's what they call psychic. I've got a strong background in psychology, and I've run the gamut of test on her, and she's not fake. I don't pretend to know how it works, either.

But, like I said, there are some things going on right now that have forced John to stay out of the spotlight. Last I saw him they were with a few young women, about your age or so. One seemed normal enough, though she apparently has no sense of self-preservation, but the other was a strong talent. I couldn't tell if she was a witch or a psychic, but she had power.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Oh that sounds sound interesting and can't wait to meet them. But, it still looks like she'll be down for some more time. So, I'm going to go over here and meditate. Get me if something comes up." I'll move to the corner and sit cross legs and begin to zone out for meditation.

Roll-5
Meditation=14

" Grandma you there?"

[Chris Chandler]

You are left to meditate and you can immediately sense the spirits around you. You great-grandmother is close, and listening.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Hey, Grandma. Sorry I haven't tuned in lately. But as you have been able to more than likely see I've been busy. But mainly, I'm wondering...have you noticed anything since I returned from the future around here, or me?" All the while, taking in the moment of relaxation since it has been a while to have some peace.

[Chris Chandler]

Your ancestor speaks, though you cannot see her.

Yes, fool boy. There is a hole where you traveled, a door left open, a trail blazed. However you want to see it, your trip has made easy the way for others, both helpful and murderous. Be wary.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Is there a way for me to close it? Or someone who my no how?"

[Chris Chandler]

You cannot close it child, and there is not another who can do it, not without help. You can help someone to close it . Seek out the dark twin.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Who is the Dark Twin, and how may I find him?"

[Chris Chandler]

She has left her home, but there are those nearby who know of her, and, perhaps, where she travels.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"May I ask who? Or Where I should begin to look for someone who knows?"

[Chris Chandler]

Ask within this very room. She is the dark twin. You will know her when you see her.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Thank you Grandma for your wisdom." I'll come out of the meditation and stand to my feet. Then I'll look to everyone in the room.

"So, any of you know of a lady know as the Dark Twin, or has the ability to close gaps in time?"

[Chris Chandler]

Do you have a horn growing out of your head? Everyone is looking at you like you have a horn growing out of your head. You might want to go check in a mirror.

Maria shakes her head slowly.

Nnnnnooo... Can't say as I have.

[Vash The Stampide]

Vash-

"Hmmm.... I guess I'll see them when I can. But back to the business at hand."
Walking over and holding Mary Ann's hand. Give her a spiritual prayer of healing.

[Chris Chandler]

Maybe it's the prayer, or maybe it's the passage of time, but it looks like Marianne is coming out of it. She isn't awake quite yet, but she's moaning and turning her head back and forth, as if she is in a nightmare.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Marianne are you alright?", rubbing her hand gently, "I have some great material for you to review over."

[Chris Chandler]

Marianne moans and tosses and then, eyes still closed, she says -

Why did they burn up my books?

Maria looks away and Dr. Cortez gives you a "Well, answer her..." look.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well you see, I was trying to get them off and away from you so..... I kind of caught your books on fire, but I do he some new information for you." Smiling.

[Chris Chandler]

Marianne squeezes her eyes shut one last time before opening them wide. She sits up (with some help from you) and then says -

You what now? You burned up my books to save me? You could have -

She shakes her head and mutters, You didn't know...

Gesturing for Maria to come and help her up into the couch, she sits and asks you to sit next to her. She takes a deep breath, and then speaks.

Those were forvalaka, and yes, normally they are something to be scared of, but this time -

She shakes her head and laughs -

This time they were there to protect me. I... An old friend owed me a favor. Did you get a look at what the forvalaka were protecting me from?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well, J.M. and I arrived there was nothing but the forvalaka there and moving toward you while you were under the bookshelf and out cold. So, instinct went into effect."

[Chris Chandler]

She sighs -

So you couldn't see them either. Are you sure? You didn't see anything that might have been a spirit?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Hmm. I don't know. I was to busy interacting with the folvalaka, and I don't think I notice anything else. But, I usually have to meditate to see them."

[Chris Chandler]

Marianne looks a bit perplexed as she looks up at Maria and then takes your hand.

Okay, that's fine. You did your best in a stressful situation. Thanks. You too, Jim!

J.M. Nods, though he's frowning.

So... I was attacked by spirits, at least they looked like spirits. I certainly couldn't... um... interact with them, though they could do things to me. It was odd. They were definitely people. I'd never seen them before, though.

She goes into describing the folks you saw across the Atlantic, when you stepped back in time for a bit. She's describing those folks that recognized you as not being part of the normal time stream there.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((LOL was thinking that before you said its those guys just from the they were kinda of like ghost but could interact with me))

"Oh. Shit. I know who your talking about. I have ran into them in when we were at that orphanage, and I had that seizure in the food mart. I witnessed a child running back to the two men wearing cloaks and one with Top Hat. The child ran to them and then they just disappeared. Just before I went to go check it out, a man reached out to try and grab me. Saying, 'You don't belong here now return.' I didnt know what to make of it, because he was the first to see me in a vision. Also, now that I'm thinking back on it, that was also the most realistic vision I have had. Walking through someone would hurt me and objects were mostly solid, tho I could with enough force push through it. Needless to say, these people have what we were looking for J.M. Our great great Grandfather's right eye."

[Chris Chandler]

Maria stares blankly at you, and Dr. Cortez smiles appreciatively. Marianne nods, and responds -

Right eye? That is interesting. Body parts have long been considered as powerful totems, fetishes, or talismans. I wonder what they have in mind. Eyes are usually symbols of watchfulness, protection, or intuition. Hmm...

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well, in my vision of what happened a long time ago, over at the Techtide building. Great great grandfather was in the basement trying to put out a fire that was started in the basement. The fire was all around the Chinese girl who was chained to the wall saying, in Chinese, 'My all your ancestors die in flame.' But Grandfather was trying to put it out, but it was like it was alive moving around to her will its seemed. Soon tho a hand reached out the flames and pulled Grandfather out and up the stairs ending the vision. Then I saw him once again in the country across the waters. It was a young child that took the eye, and he was left to burn in that building. I don't know much of our great great grandfather, but J.M. may know more about what kind of man he was. Which could lead us to find out what one would want to make of his eye?"

All the while running my head trying to see if anything fits from all this.

[Chris Chandler]

Was the little girl Chinese?

Maria perks up as she asks her question.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Yes, she was chinese. I believe she is my great grandmother, or an ancestor of mine." Now looking at her head tilted some. "Why so interested it seems?"

[Chris Chandler]

Maria answers -

Oh, I wrote an article a few years back about cultural exchanges amongst the local Native Americans and Chinese immigrants. There were a few interesting bits of folklore. Nothing about eyes, mind you, but some weird discussions about fire and revenge. Odd coincidence, maybe?

Marianne shakes her head no and J.M. laughs. Dr. Cortez furrows his brow.

You actually were able to travel in time?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well, I can somewhat with visions, but just as an outsider looking in. But, with J.M.'s machine I was able to, yes, physically to go ahead in time. Also I'm pretty sure I could go back in time as well. This is what happened when I used the machine."

Taking a deep breathe and exhaling, "I was in darkness, surrounded by more darkness. Then my Grandmother appeared before me, and asked me why I was here. I asked her if she could send me to the future, and she warned me it would be foolish but if I desired to go still then she pointed me to a spiral stairwell. It just appeared going up and down forever. When I got on it off to my sides I could see images of the present, and as I walked up images flew past more and more. So, I began to focus more on where I wanted to go and it would start to show those images, but I could never look at them directly for they would vanish. I finally found where I needed to go so I waited and watch the seasons pass on the tree out front to see the time flew on ahead. I was there. I reached out and could feel something so I stepped sideways and I was in the future believe it or not. But just now I was meditating. My grandmother said I left a hole for things to travel freely between the times tho, and told me that the Dark Twin might be able to close it, but she would need my help, and possibly more help."

[Chris Chandler]

All eyes are on J.M. -

It wasn't my time machine. I just knew that Mr. Kim was interested in the subject and... well, he found out about Okomi and somehow knew that I'd made his acquaintance. He coerced me into a meeting. I didn't know about the machine until you did, Okomi. I don't even think that Mr. Kim know's much about the thing. I believe that he appropriated it.

Maria nods, and Marianne scrunches up her nose -

Why someone like you would mess around with a thug -

We're in the same business, Marianne -

Well, that's just so horrible I don't want to contemplate it.

Dr. Cortez says -

It doesn't look like you're in that business anymore, J.M.

Fair enough.

Marianne responds to you, Okomi -

You opened up some sort of rift in time and space? This sounds suspiciously like an episode of Star Trek all of a sudden.

She smiles uneasily.

No, I believe you, it's just a bit on the odd side.

Maria replies -

So, I don't know any twins, much less a dark one.

Dr. Cortez stops for a moment -

Hold it -

What?

The girls. John was with some girls that I'd never seen... well, once before, and only briefly. I... I'm not sure, but they were the same age - a little older than you Okomi, and... I'd say that if they weren't sisters they were close cousins. No, sisters. Sisters the same age would have to be -

Twins.

That's too easy.

Where are they?

I don't know. John went into hiding. He's in some trouble. He left me a number, though. I might be able to contact him.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"That is interesting, or coincidental. I don't know which, but closing that would be more important than anything on my agenda at the moment. Unless something pops up...."

[Chris Chandler]

Marianne nods.

Okay. Hernando, make the call, please. I could use a drink. I'm glad that I'm alive, but if my place is really burned down, then there's some hard choices I'll need to make in the near future.

Maria laughs quietly and heads to the kitchen while Dr. Cortez heads outside, pulling a phone from his pocket. Marianne looks over toward you, Okomi and speaks -

Thank you. No really, I mean it. I must sound horrible and an ingrate but I appreciate what you did for me.

She reaches out and takes hold of your hand and smiles. She's worn out, but it looks like she'll recover fine.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll move the hand up and over my shoulder and help her to a seat. "So, Let me find out what I could make for you, and it's no problem Marianne. You helped me many times so only fair." I'll head off to fix her a drink.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, things are slow for a bit. Dr. Cortez is outside on the phone for a bit. Marianne gets to the point where she's up and moving. She and Maria sit and talk the duration, about rent and tenure and what-not. Looks like Marianne will be staying with Maria for the time being. Apparently they used to be roommates.

It will be some time before Dr. Cortez comes back in.

Okay, I got in touch with Ginger. She wants to meet. She says it's important. She wants Okomi and me.

Marianne and Maria exchange looks. Maria speaks up -

What's going on, Hernando? What are you not saying?

Hernando shakes his head.

It's bigger than I thought it was. Ginger knows where the Dark Twin is. She's not here. She's... out there.

He points up.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Looking up, "Out there? Like outside. Like they can fly? Interesting. Dark twins like crows? Hows that going to help?"

[Chris Chandler]

Maria laughs and doesn't realize. Marianne doesn't laugh because she does realize.

No, he means that the dark twin is not on this planet any more. She's... left.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Ah ok I knew that... So how are we going to get to them?" Looking at all them.

[Chris Chandler]

Maria laughs and heads to the kitchen muttering -

Dunno, let me go dust off my spare Saturn V...

Dr. Cortez gives her a look and Marianne just looks confused.

What do you mean, Space? Like, the Dark Twin's in NASA?

No, she took a trip with an alien.

You say that as if it's so simple.

Let me tell you about Saturday, about 5 weeks ago. -

((Read Heather and Veronica's thread, p. 25- p.27, and then 36-41. Try to pick out Dr. Cortez' point of view.))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((Read it))

"Ok. So, what do we need to do?" Just standing there looking confused.

[Chris Chandler]

I believe that Ginger can contact the... can contact her. Ginger's apparently working with them as sort of a home base. John apparently went with this girl and a few other folks out to... God knows where. It was a bit confusing, actually.

Anyways, those creatures, the Fidorians? I've seen them, and they aren't just giant bugs. They are incredibly smart. Ginger didn't know why they were here, or what they wanted. They're after some man named Adam, who apparently stole something. I don't know the details.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Interesting. Let me clear my mind for a moment before we head out I guess."

"Well, this seems like it's going to get interesting, but I should ask Grandmother about some of this and see if see has any wisdom on the matter. But also, big bugs....smart.. should be more like food right? Oh well, find out when we get to it. But, I wonder is there any connection with this, Marianne, Mr. Kim, the Panther men, the vision of the past and to come, and what impact is this having on things? I'll have to ask Grandmother about them."

I'll sit down on the floor cross my legs and begins to slow breathing and take deep breathes, clearing my mind. Roll-9 Med-14

[Chris Chandler]

Your grandmother is there, waiting -

What is it you want, boy? You know all that you need, or do you need assurance?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Maybe. So, many things are being to crowd my plate. But some of the things seem more closely connected than they first appear. But, the vision of the past fire, the deal with the future interfering with the past, Kim meddling with Aliens? and so many creatures that I have never seen. Are these creatures real? and is there more 'out there' ? Or do you know of the outer space?"

[Chris Chandler]

Yes. All creatures are real, Okomi. Folklore and nightmares are only the end result of the fuel of years of interactions with what you would call a monster. The imagination is a powerful thing. It can predict the past.

There is a brief pause before she answers you again.

Your ancestors are spirits, and the spirit world is not like where you are now, but I may not follow where you travel, should you choose to enter space. It is important that the spirits of the dead stay close to the Great Earth Mother.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Ok, thank you Grandmother. I think that's all I needed to hear. The imagination is a powerful thing....Yes, yes it is. Thank you again."

I'll come out of the meditation. "Well, What shall we do next? Where is this thing?"

[Chris Chandler]

The thing is apparently in another star system, or certainly not in this one. Again, Ginger was vague on the particulars. She said that the dark twin is about two months out, and they don't know exactly where the thing is.

He pauses -

I say we go and talk to Ginger. She's a good friend.

Marianne agrees but J.M. and Maria want no part of it. Maria speaks -

You can forget that. You tell me how it comes out. I'm not about to go down some trail of chasing aliens and spooks, if it's real at all.

Dr. Cortez smiles and shrugs.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Two months!? Might as well wait for them to return if it's going to be that long. Prepare for them to return. I have loose ends to tie off here. Those can be done by the time they get back. Cause who knows what Mr. Kim will do if we are gone that long plus what if Kim has the same means of travel or better? I'm thinking it best to resolve the Mr. Kim deal before leaving if it's going to be that long."

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez looks at you strangely and then shrugs -

I had a meeting set up, but we can table that, if you don't think it's too important. I mean, Mr. Kim's bad news -

J.M. interjects -

Actually, I was thinking of something, to actually use this alleged jaunt into space to our advantage.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Really? Do enlighten." I'll be looking eager to hear what he has to say.

[Chris Chandler]

Well, Kim is looking to shut me down, for whatever reason, and I may not likely be the main focus of his attention even. Nevertheless, I'm a piece in his puzzle. If I disappear for a bit, it could go one of two ways. He thinks I'm dead, and he continues on, and we return and wreck him when he least expects it. That's one way. The second is that I send him a message, tell him I've gone underground and feed whatever paranoia is fueling him, hopefully paralyzing him for time. Either way, having a vacation amongst the stars is an attractive option to dying.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I stand there tapping my chin, "Hmm. You have a good point. Not like I didnt know that already, but none the less we could up and disappear. That I think would be the better, to make him think you had died. Or before we leave me a scene better showing as if you died." Still tapping my chin.

[Chris Chandler]

Oh, actually stage my demise? Methinks you've put some thought into this.

He laughs. Dr. Cortez shakes his head -

So, what now? Are we going to go meet with Ginger or not?

Well, maybe so, but I think that we might need to put on a show, as well. Isn't that right Okomi?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Yes. Maybe a little fireworks for a departure? I think thats fitting." Grinning ear to ear.

[Chris Chandler]

Maria rolls her eyes and Marianne laughs. Dr. Cortez shakes his head and speaks -

Look, I'm not going to be part of anything that causes loss of life, even one of Kim's men. I won't do it.

Marianne replies -

I don't think anyone's going to die. I think JM just wants Kim to think he's dead.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Yep, that's right Marianne. What do we have access to for staging your death?"

[Chris Chandler]

Well, we have my helicopter, my house should still be accessible, though likely ransacked. There is also a number of my cars, a few motorcycles, the boat you just purchase. I'm sure there's others, but that should do, don't you think? What do you have in mind as a ploy?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((still trying to think of all of it I have some planed but working on how he would put it))

[Chris Chandler]

((Take your time, but make it convincing!))

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I begin pacing and rubbing my head in deep thought. Then finally sitting down and taking some deep breathes. Resting in my meditative state, I 'll be thinking of some things.

"Could I possibly... Maybe...No I can...Don't think Know..."

I'll get back up and walk over to the group and J.M. "To pull this off we would need a means to get Kims attention long enough to make it clear to him that you there and that something happening, but making it not clear we want him looking. We could possibly use the boat to make it easier to missing, but Kim may want evidence of death. So, we may need trinkets left behind from like a fire. Witch leads to me needing about a week before we do this. I need to work on something and I will need some help. I could use my abilities to do the dirty work. More than likely it will drain me. J.M. I'll need you to work out how to get his attention though not making it not obvious and who wants to help me? Will need to do it on water so I want burn anything else. After that, we can figure witch item we want, but can I leave that to you J.M?"

[Chris Chandler]

JM looks at you with a little bit of confusion -

So, what now? You're going to set fire to the water? And I need a trinket.

Dr. Cortez and Marianne both say that they will help, but Maria says that she can't -

I have two little girls. I can't risk it.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"J.M. I would like to you to possibly figure out what might be a good way to get Kim's attention. But not so much so that he will be suspicious if we were to die. And I will need someone to help me with esorting me out to a small island near the coast that is isolated for the week so I can figure out what I need to do further. Also, during this time I think if we fake our death it probably be most convening if there were no remains due to a fire. So, I was thinking of faking our death in a building of some kind, where we could possibly escape, and still make it look like it burnt down with us in it."

[Chris Chandler]

We could set fire to my office building. I mean, the upper floor is already firebombed.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Is there a way to get out with out being seen?", Taking a sit on the couch if able.

[Chris Chandler]

You mean sneak in, and then make our presence known? Sure. There's some underground access that should fit the bill. It's likely abandoned right now.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Ok, that sounds good. Cortez, think we could have one week to get ready and do this, then head off to space?"

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez shrugs and then nods.

I suppose that it would really depend upon what Ginger has to offer, but it seems reasonable.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Ok, Can you ask her for me? J.M. Would be able to use same routes to get out un noticed?"

[Chris Chandler]

Well, I doubt she'll accept another call from me outside of setting up a meeting time. She's underground right now, and I don't want her getting spooked.

JM nods

Well, if we get in unnoticed, it's likely we can double back, but I'd not bet on it.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Think you could come up with an escape route from there? I'm hoping I can cover our tracks but we will need a way out." Looking to Dr. Cortez, "Would she want to set up a meeting very shortly?"

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez nods -

Yeah, today.

J.M. also nods -

Yes, we should be able to work out an escape, but we'll need transport.

Marianne speaks up -

Oh, I can help with at least driving.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Alright looks like we can get moving then. Lets set up the meeting to day, and head out from there." Grinning from ear to ear.

[Chris Chandler]

Setting up the meeting is pretty easy. Ginger wants to meet at an old Naval base, one that was shut down year ago. She gives the address to Dr. Cortez. You'll be meeting her tonight, which means that you have three hours or so to kill.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Alright, Meeting is set. J.M. I guess we can burn some time figuring out something on route we might need to take?"

[Chris Chandler]

JM nods and says -

Well, if we're ready to head out, I think I know a lady who might help us. Maria, it was a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for your hospitality.

Marianne and Dr. Cortez nod, ready to go. Maria gives Marianne and Dr. Cortez a quick hug, shakes JM's hand, and extends her hand to you, as well.

Vaya con Dios, Okomi.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Nodding as well and shaking her hand, "Thank you for help and journey over seas. Looking forward to more adventures. If you need something ask me anytime. Catch you later." And then I'm ready to go and head out.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, sounds good. So where do you want to head 'fore you meet up with Ginger?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"J.M. who is this mystery girl you mentioned?" Looking to J.M.

[Chris Chandler]

JM nods as you head out and towards Dr. Cortez' car, and responds -

Oh, yes, my friend Svetlana. She contacted me earlier in the week, letting me know she was in town. She has a nose for such things.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Alright, should we meet her late to? Or will she find us?"

[Chris Chandler]

I'll send her a message after we meet with Ginger. I wouldn't be surprised if Svetlana's nearby.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well Lets go see Ginger. Lead on Dr.Cortez." And I'll follow suit.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, so, how would you like to travel. I mean, Dr. Cortez has his car, but I mean how do you want to approach the base?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"So, Mr.Cortez, how are we going to meet Ginger if she underground? Will she have to meet us somewhere or she literately underground?"

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez blinks and replies -

I mean she's hiding, like... under the radar, or under everyone's notice... not really in some underground bunker. That'd be crazy.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Well I guess lead the way. I'll follow you."

[Chris Chandler]

You're just following along? Okay.

Dr. Cortez drives according to JM's directions and JM makes a call. After a moment he frowns and turns off his phone.

Hrm... Seems that Svetlana is in town, but she's on "radio silence". I'll have to leave her a different type of message for her to respond, and it won't be immediate. Doesn't look like she'll be able to assist with our death throes.

He turns his phone on and dials another number, then, after a moment, types in a few numbers and, satisfied, hangs up.

You have three hours to kill. You can do something or we can move to your meeting with Ginger if you've got no other plans. What'll be?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

A little shopping for provisions when I head out for the time to 'train', otherwise, on with the show....the meeting.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, you provision up and then head out to an old navy shipyard. It was shut down in the 90s, but a few contractors use some of the bays in the farthest back. The main compound is dark, though, and it's hard to see anything. The guard house looks vacant and the gate is chained and locked.

Dr. Cortez looks around and furrows his brow.

Don't see her. Maybe we need to go inside?

So, what's the plan?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

((Night vision +4 *sounds of night vision goggles powering up* It's go time XD ))

"I'll take a quick look around"

I'll take a quick look over at the guard shack and out in the open area behind to the gate and around the other areas to see If I notice anything.

In case u want roll
Rolled- 10
PER- 17

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, you hop on out, and you can tell that there has been activity recently, as you see footprints and recent litter (candy wrappers and the like). This section of the base is open space, with a few large buildings (old warehouses or workshops, you can't really tell) in distance. There is a large parking lot on either side of your right now, but of course it's empty.

You don't see anyone, but can't shake the feeling that you are being watched. Just as you catch the sight of movement near one of the buildings you have the sense of someone nearby, not physically, but some sort of reaching out to your mind. You've never felt anything like this before, and it isn't exactly unpleasant. You hear a voice, and you can't tell if it's only in your head, or if you can actually hear it. A lady's voice, tinged with fear and wariness speaks -

So, where's Cortez? You're with him, so where is he?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Looking to Dr. Cortez, "Do you her that or is that in my head Doctor?"

[Chris Chandler]

Dr. Cortez moves quickly over to you, waving his hands over his head.

Ginger, he's cool, please don't melt him. Hey, I'm right here.

The woman comes out of the shadows. She's tall and pretty, her blond hair back in a braid. She's wearing dark work coveralls, and has work gloves on and a cap. The outfit is a bit ill-fitting, and you wonder if she's trying to disguise herself.

She speaks -

Okay, cool. Sorry about that. I'm Ginger. And you're Okomi? Is that right?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

"Yes, I am Okomi. Nice to meet you."

[Chris Chandler]

Sure. I'm glad that you came. Come on. There's a service entrance over there, and we'll be dead in the water if someone comes snooping. There's a secure location behind the old machine shop. This way.

She sets off at a cautious jog, keeping to the shadows and checking around each corner. Eventually you'll come to what looks to be an abandoned building, which she enters quickly.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll follow in the same manner and walk in as well. Once inside, I'll take a look around.

[Chris Chandler]

((Sorry for the delay))

You enter a storehouse, full to the ceiling with old junk - mostly disused office equipments, old filing cabinets, typewriters and the like. Ginger moves over to a pile of rubbish and then reaches into a filled crate and works a hidden mechanism. The floor immediately beneath you hums and hisses and quickly falls away!

You don't fall down, but you feel like you are one an incredibly fast elevator, one that you can not go down, if you wish - you can evade it.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I''ll try not to become an elevator, so I would like to evade. "Wow! What was that?"

[Chris Chandler]

Okay you manage to hop up just and the right second and scramble off the edge. Everyone else goes down. You climb out, off to the side of the ledge, and then the floor reforms over the shaft. Just before it closes you hear -

Wai - what are you doing O -

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

...Weird Is that suppose to be an elevator?....

I'll go over and see if I can grab what ever she did when the ground reforms.

[Chris Chandler]

You look around for some time and finally come across what you think is the release panel. You press a button and the platform opens up.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

...I hope this was it...

[Chris Chandler]

So, do you get on the platform this time?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Yea I'll be on the platform this time. Not sure what to make of it, but none the less I'll get on.

[Chris Chandler]

The lift is quite fast to the point where it feels more like a freefall than an elevator. The shaft is smooth stone - grey, possibly concrete - it's really hard to tell because you start moving very quickly. You gradually slow after some time (Your estimate is roughly 30 seconds) and then come to a complete stop some 30 seconds later (for a total of a minute trip). In the last 10 seconds or so the shaft opens up into a large chamber. It is dimly lit and you cannot see the edges, though you can see in about a 30 yard radius from the lift.

What you do see as you descend into the chamber is reminiscent of a movie rendition of NORAD's war room or the command center on the moon of Yavin 4. There are small workstations with holographic models being displayed (you recognize a map of Spain, a 3-D model of some naval warship, and a television station's newscast) plus a number of bright metallic cubes (roughly 4x4 feet each, by a quick estimate). Each cube seems glow, of the 6 that you see, 4 are pale blue, one orange, and another yellow. You see five creatures moving through the area.

Taking a look at one creature, you see that it has mottled metallic skin, slightly rough in texture, of a light charcoal grey. There are no limbs, per se, and the creatures simply slide across the floor silently. Any device that might require manual input in a human workroom is somehow remotely manipulated by the creature, as you can see it interacting with a section of the holographic model.

The creatures have the semblance of a face enveloped at tip of the "teardrop", a glowing deep blue surface expanding and contracting light in various shapes. You observe two of the creatures facing each other, their mutual glows changing in a rapid succession of polyhedrons. There aren't any eyes or mouths to speak of. In fact, they aren't humanoid in shape in the least.

Your friends are waiting at the bottom for you, but they aren't looking at you, but rather at the scene before them. Marianne manages to mutter -

Uh... thanks for joining us, there, Okomi.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Looking around at all the different things in the room. I slowly respond while looking around, "Uh..no..Problem..."

[Chris Chandler]

Ginger walks over to you and reaches out her hand in greeting.

Now then, I'm Ginger and I'm glad that you've arrived. You're a friend... or at least an acquaintance of Dr. Cortez. That's a pretty good mark, I'd say. Now then... what brings you to spook central?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Looking around at all the NEW TOYS!!!! *cough cough* I mean....

"I ask Dr. Cortez if he knew someone who could help me. That would be to close portal from future to present and present to future. He told me of two people but their in space. He said you might have ship that can take us there. But I need one week before I want to head up."

[Chris Chandler]

((Oops! sorry, I thought I'd long since replied. Crap!))

Ginger looks surprised to say the least, but then takes in a breath and then nods.

O... okay I think we may be able to help you with that. A week actually sounds like a good timeframe to prepare. So... what do you need to do with the week? Perhaps we can be of assistance?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

A smile starts creeping up on my face, "Actually, you might be able to help. I'm trying to learn to control my powers. For one, to better understand them; second, to use them to make J.M. and myself to seem like we died."

[Chris Chandler]

((I think that this might be appropriate to handle in-person. Come Friday closer to 4:30, and we'll worth through it. Sound good?))

[Vash The Stampide]

After talking with Ginger some she told me that someone could help me with what I need to do, but in return they would want my help to recover their Daughter. Okomi tells her he plans to try in a week. In witch, Okomi will develop his ability to cover J.M. and his escape.

Okomi-

"I'd like to try and use the device. If you would let me. My abilies, thought it my not be all, are conjuring fire and controling fire, heat; controlling electricity; ability to shift to other forms. These are all I have uncovered so far. Though that might not be all of them."

[Chris Chandler]

((My mind has not been in this place. Sorry for the long delay.))

Okay, the Raleshaz agree to work with you and set you up on hypno-learning module. You basically lay down on a settee and fall asleep. Once there, your mind is tapped and your knowledge and memory centers are engaged. It takes several hours, but you'll be able to deal with the stress.

((remind me tonight and we'll walk through the logistics of what just happened))

[Vash The Stampide]

Talk about it this Friday?

[Chris Chandler]

((How about next Friday :D))

[Vash The Stampide]

Ok lol. I'll just ask every Friday till we make it past this lol.

[Chris Chandler]

((What, you mean this Friday? Let's take a moment after Kuralia talk but before supper.))

[Vash The Stampide]

Alrighty

[Chris Chandler]

So, is there anything else you'll be needing to do before you start your ruse?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi:

"Thank you. That was odd for an experience. But I would like to work on focusing my ability to make ruse real. So, practice is what I need now. You have somewhere I can play with fire at?" Looking to Ginger.

[Chris Chandler]

Yeah, they can set you up. You'll be able to practice and focus on refining your talents. We can walk through what that entails this evening.

[Vash The Stampide]

Ginger and the Aliens help me with the setup and end up taking me a similar setup of the room we planned the scene to happen. Here I begin to train myself in the creation of a small amount of flame, and begin to use it in fractions to harness the efficient use of the ability. Then when I am comfortable I will begin to harness the aspect of controlling the fires made by the flame. Understanding these test and trials will be immense. So, there will be a lot of meditation and sleep. And before I begin I end up having to talk with myself to make the "replacements" more like me.

[Chris Chandler]

So, with all that under your belt, it looks like you're ready for your ruse. You and J.M. get geared up and prepared and you head back up to the surface. A Range Rover is waiting for you. When you enter the vehicle, it speaks -

I'll be transporting you to the Techtite back-door entrance, and will then make a visible exit. Please remember that you have a window of 4 minutes for this to be effective.

You are pretty sure that you are riding in the "belly" of a Raleshaz.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

Nod with anticipation, "Alright, You ready to J.M.?"

[Chris Chandler]

JM assents

Okay, so you drive downtown and then arrive at what looks like a warehouse for a bookseller - it looks closed.

JM speaks -

Ah, the Padgett building. There's an access tunnel in the sub-basement that we can use. Ready. I've got a key to the back entrance.

You head out to the back entrance, being careful to not be noticed. You think that you are successful.

The door is opened and you head in -

This is, indeed an old book warehouse. The smell of mold and dust is nearly overwhelming. There are boxes upon boxes of decaying unsold paperbacks.

A... failed business venture. My father really wanted to spread out - shipping, bookselling, real estate. Only the real estate stuck. Nearly lost the business. Not for the good it did him.

You are pretty sure that JM is crying right now.

You head over to a stairwell and head down four flights of stairs to the sub-basement. It looks like the boiler room. There's a half-sized access door at the far end of the room.

There it is. This leads three blocks through downtown to the pump room of Techtite. Let's go.

So, anything that you want to do?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll pat him on the back and then look him straight in the eyes, "Let's go put on a show shall we?"

[Chris Chandler]

He nods and you continue into the passage.

Now then, the passage is very dark. The Raleshaz have provided infrared goggles so that you can travel without a flashlight. You creep along at a slow pace. The passage hums with the sound of traffic from above, but is otherwise bereft of sound. There aren't rats or insects down here at all. It's dry and barren.

I say all this to mention that (according to your best estimate) about halfway through the trip through the access tunnel you hear the sound of muffled voices up ahead. You can't understand words, but you can make out voices, low but not quiet.

Actions?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll tap J.M.'s shoulder and putting a finger over my mouth. Then point ahead of us and motion talking. And I'll move up to the lead and slowly make way up. But only if it's still dark. I'll keep plenty of distance but mainly get to where I can hear them. But before we move any father I'll ask J.M. "Anyone know this way besides you?" whispered.

[Vash The Stampide]

Bump

[Chris Chandler]

JM shakes his head and says, Only my personal secretary, and, well, I haven't heard from her since I put her on a plane to Paris just after all this went down.

You ease up to the point of discussion. This is at the end-point of the tunnel, to a sub-basement room with an elevator and several crates stacked on a far wall. You see two "new" Techtite guards sitting at a small card table. One holds a dirty magazine in his hand, and he's in the process of replying to the other guard -

... doesn't cheapen them. I'm not exploiting anyone by reading this. The girls all signed up for it. They sought out this line of work.

The other guard laughs derisively and replies -

You are a damn idiot. What you are seeing there is the end-point of a series of bad decisions. The head you're thinking with just doesn't have any eyes.

Man, it's not like th- Shoot, did you hear something?

No. Quit changing the subject.

I'm not, I think I heard something down toward the access tunnel.

Rats.

Rats with boots, maybe. I'm serious.

Alright, lemme call it in -

Okay, what do you want to do?

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

I'll jump down. Then look over to the two guards, lifting my hands up slowly. "I wouldn't do that." I'll slowly walk towards them. "You two look new. How would it look to your boss, catching intruder?"

I'm waiting for a moment to get the upper hand on them. Giving J.M. the opening to do something while I distract them. But I'm also getting primed for ignition. There happens to be some fuel laying around or moving around.

[Chris Chandler]

The place is a tinder box - there is fuel at the ready in the form of paper.

The guards, already ready, are surprisingly slow on the uptake as they try and get up. You get the feeling that they aren't planning on taking anyone prisoner - they are reaching for firearms. You still have the jump on them.

JM, you can tell, is moving for a firing lane, pulling out his handgun.

They are definitely distracted.

[Vash The Stampide]

Vash-

"Bad move."

Going to start with the pornography he was looking at to begin with, and try to ignite that. Then lash out to thier guns.

Creation/Control-15
Roll-8,10

[Chris Chandler]

The magazine erupts and leaps from his hands, as they scramble around for their weapons. The fire is controlled on that paper right now. J.M. shoots one of the guards - clips him in the shoulder - and the guard crumples temporarily. The other guard reaches his weapon, but now you can react before he can fire.

[Vash The Stampide]

Okomi-

What happens when extreme heat meets gunpowder? I'm wanting the flames on the magazine to spread to the guard's side arm.

My Hands still in the air, but ready to dock for cover if it goes bad.

Control-15
Roll-9