Big City, Neplusultra.  MASSIVE traffic jam.  One for the history books.  The reason?  Rumors abound that the famous Battleduster will be landing here soon with a very high-profile prisoner.  One of the Pirate Lords!  And of course eeeveryone wants to be here for this historic event!  Hence the traffic.

Aiu asks, "What's taking so long? Shouldn't we be there by now?"

Her limo driver answers, "Sorry, ambassador, but since you weren't specifically invited, we have to take the same route everyone else is taking."

Aiu blows upward on her hair. "I'll pull up the news, at least." and with that, she tunes in to the news to watch the updates on this event. Even if she can't make it to the location of the event, at least she can stay abreast of the situation.

Y'naro lands his craft at a junky backwater area where he was given permission to land since all the other docks were full. Apparently, he was told right that pulling the "I'm a blissian" card would at least get him a place to land. It is still quite a walk from here, but Y'naro does not mind walking at all.

He exits his vehicle, locks it, and begins walking along the side of the road, looking at all the backed-up traffic with a curious look.

  Thus far nameless Deksharr was already in the area.  Though in his case the media circus means he hasn't bothered to try and leave.

His enthusiasm for such an apparent win for non lawbreakers is dampened by the fact he has resorted to vending machines to get snacks that at least resemble what he asks for, considering people are too preoccupied with the news to remember where they even put his food after he ordered it.

Not Joe, just no GM tags for filler names

A newscaster's voice is charged with excitement as he relays the unfolding events.  "The Battleduster can be seen now as it slowly descends vertically toward the city, impressive even at this distance.  Traffic is adjusting to try and make room.  The swarm shimmers from flash photos snapped within the individual vehicles at random intervals...."

A police officer on a hover bike approaches Y'naro.  "Hey there, buddy.  That's a loooong walk you got ahead of you.  I just got orders to escort a certain vehicle through this mess, but I may as well offer you a ride while I'm at it.  Wunna hop on?"

Aiu gets a call.  Should she pick up, she'll be informed that her office pulled some strings and got her a police escort.  Which should be arriving soon.

Over at dekshar land:  CRASH!  "Hey!  Watch where you're going!"

"You cut me off!"

Ye olde traffic accident.

Aiu does, in fact, answer he phone. Upon hearing about the escort, she says, "Wow really? Nice. Thank you."

Aiu relays the information to the driver and leans back in her seat with a smile.

Meanwhile, Y'naro smiles brightly at the cop. "Thank you, officer. That is very kind of you." He gives a polite bow before hopping (pardon the rabbit pun) onto the bike and hugging the cop from behind.

  Well, dfhgnjklgdfalkjhvdf is certainly glad that this isn't his jurisdiction (Not that he has one these days.  Or that he was parked anywhere near here.

  uiohgdfghjograsd does however, allow himself a single sigh as he tosses the last bits of his snacks in the trash, and goes to check if anything more than vehicles or pride are hurt.

"You're welcome!" is the answer Aiu and Y'naro both receive.  The officer coordinates with Aiu's driver and escorts the vehicle to the city's main courthouse.  His attention is drawn to the arguing motorists standing over the pieces of their trashed fenders, no people injured apparently.

The dekshar nearby has already been able to determine what happened.  Aggressive driver swerved to change lanes.  Distracted driver failed to notice the sudden reduction in safe breaking distance and rear-ended Aggressive Face.   Neither is wiling to admit to their part in the accident, but witnesses stuck in traffic are happy to tell what they saw.  Nothing better to do besides gawk at the Battleduster's landing.

"Got work to do,," the officer tells Y'naro, "Nice meet'n ya!"

While the officer is busy with radioing in, Aggressive Face is making a fist like he intends to sucker-punch the other motorist.

Y'naro says, "Thank you so much, officer. May love follow you."

When he sees the one getting ready to throw a punch, he darts over at incredible speeds (or did he hop over in a single bound?) and intercepts. Should the man still throw the punch, he will find his punch heading for a blissian. Y'naro aims to guide the punch to continue in a circle so the man might spin in place. "Please do not do that." he asks in a pleading tone.

Aiu, meanwhile, wonders if she has arrived, so she peaks outside to see the spectacle and widens her eyes. Since when did things escalate to someone throwing a punch at a blissian? A puppy-bark exits her mouth in shock.

  Well, uh.... *throws dartboard at wall* Dave was just going to suggest how unlikely to get away with punching in front of a crowd and next to a cop mister angry pants was.  But now Blissians are throwing themselves in front of people.

  Hopefully popular claims they are too cute to want to punch are true.  "If you take the other guy to court over this, the Jury will totally take their side if you punch the bunny even if legally he the other driver was at fault."

The officer blushed at Y'naro's parting blessing wondering just how much good luck he'll get from that one, but is startled by Y'naro's sudden speedy departure.  When he sees what's going on, he ohs and hurries his approach, blowing his whistle.

Aggression Face was going for a "I'm not touching you" fake-out punch, but bunny gets in the way.  Granted, he didn't put much power into the jab, but it was aimed at nose level.  So should Y'naro have chosen to block with his face, it woulda hurt.  But it's not hard for Y'naro to redirect the interrupted punch any way he wants.

"What?!  What's going on?!"

His body language shows that he's not very angry any more... more confused than anything.  Distracted Motorist looks just as mystified.  "Thanks?  I think he was aiming for me..."

The officer looks to be calming down too and quits whistling.  "Yeah, thanks, Y'naro!"  He looks over at Dekshar Dave and asks, "Sounds like you already know what happened.  I'd appreciate if you could tell me."

To the motorists he says, "I'll let you know when it's your turn to give your version of what happened."

"I've been asked to park outside the city," Aiu's driver informs after getting off the phone.

"You may as well hop off here.  Gimme a call when you're ready for a pickup."

Aiu says, "Very well.  Thank you.  Looks like this place is pretty interesting anyways," and smiles as she trots out.

Meanwhile, Y'naro had in fact redirected the punch, and he says, "Why were you trying to hit that man?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:53, Sun 20 Sept 2015.

 "Sudden lane change swerve, other guy apparently didn't notice until it was too late to stop.  Dunno if they had eyes front the whole time with the big distraction coming in, but stopping suddenly enough probably would have gotten them rear ended instead."

  He blinks at the Blissian.  He knows they are supposed to be all hugs and rainbows, but the why was pretty obvious.

"Sure thing."  The driver turns the vehicle around and begins to exit the city.

"Sounds about right," the officer answers David, "Happens all the time.  And I hear the same excuses every time.  Thank you for helping, sir.  I'll take it from here."

Another officer is approaching.

"I wasn't gunna hit him," the embarrassed aggressor answers Y'naro, "Just fake him out is all.  I was getting tired of his insults so I just wanted to shut him up."

"You're a terrible liar," Distracted Face retorts, "You're not fool'n anyone.  The real reason you were resorting to punches is because you know I was right and you ran out of lies to come back with."

Aggressive Face takes offense and starts shouting insults and accusations back at Distracted Face.  First Cop tries to calm things down.  Second Cop puts on a satisfied smile, casually unsnaps the strap over his handcuffs, and begins twirling around his finger while he approaches, whistling merrily.  First Cop looks annoyed when he notices.

Y'naro says, "Shhh..." as he holds up hands to both. "I believe him. I reacted quickly, but I doubt this man would punch you right in front of a police officer."

Aiu trots over to the scene and perks her ears. She says, "I can help, if I am permitted to."

  "Making him want to punch you more isn't helping matters." Even if he can understand the temptation.

  He looks over to the approaching Grenu,  "I'm sure someone would appreciate help, though it is that second bit that seems the hard part."

"I doubt he would have the guts to," Distracted Face answers Y'naro, "Now that he knows there's one here."

First Cop is confused by Aiu's offer.  "How?"

"I'll take you on any time!" Angry Face shouts, "You're the one using the cops to hide behind!"

Happy Cop happy sighs.  "Ah, the joy of putting idiots like you behind bars is why I joined the police force.  You're under arrest for assault, disturbing the peace, impeding traffic..."

As he rattles off charges, he reaches to cuff Angry Face, who looks like he won't cooperate with being cuffed.  Happy Cop looks overjoyed, lowering his stance a bit to prepare for slamming Angry Face's face in the pavement when he inevitably resists.

"I wouldn't," First Cop warns Angry Face sternly, unheeded.

Aiu says, "I am an Oracle of Gog. I can see a person's past if they permit me, and thus I could determine what really happened pretty easily. But if this guy actually goes for assaulting a police officer... I guess there really isn't a need..." She knows Angry Face has grabbed ALL the attention, so she keeps an eye on Distracted Face. She realizes, though, that Angry Face could be angry about much more than the accident.

Y'naro says, "Please calm down... and comply with the police. Non compliance will only hurt you unnecessarily. I will gladly be a witness for you to make sure you do not see jail time if you comply with the officer."

Y'naro stays close to angry face, giving him a concerned look.

  "I already pity you for the 'saw that coming, am I an oracle?' jokes about today you'll get."

  Now as for Happy Cop, there's the look of a guy who considers the ensuing paperwork totally worth it.  "Sometimes you just have to stand back and let them hurt themselves."  well okay, you don't have to.  But it can make things go so much smoother (for you) sometimes.

Angry Face is so weirded out by Aiu's claim of being an oracle that all the fight that was left in him vanishes, so he gets cuffed without incident.

"Oracle what?"

Even Distracted Face is sweatdropping in spite of his enemy not falling for being baited into a resisting arrest charge.

First Cop answers Y'naro, "That won't be necessary.  Worst he'll get is a traffic ticket.  I'll be a witness if there's any unexpected complications."

To Aiu he says, "Thanks...  That was very helpful, apparently."

Happy is bewildered too now that his fun's been spoiled.

To Distracted Face he says, "Alright you too.  Same charges.  Let's go."

Distracted Face is shocked.  "What?!  I didn't do any of that stuff!"

The cop laughs.  "If I had a credit for every time...  So we're just imagining you standing in the middle of the street arguing?  Or is it you that's imagining that your not here and you need mental help?  Either way, it's up to you if you want to come along of if you want to be cuffed and charged with resisting arrest?"

Distracted Face grumbles and follows.  First Cop sighs.  "Just cause he's always smiling doesn't mean he's the nice cop.  Thanks again, everyone.  I'll stay here and help direct traffic.  Looks like Joker's got those two handled."

Aiu and Y'naro both wave to the cops and get out of the way of things.

Y'naro watches the people go and turns to Dave with a smile. "Sometimes, you do have to watch people hurt themselves. But not today, thankfully."

Aiu nods to Dave. "Thanks for the sympathies. My name is Aiu. What may I call you two?"

Y'naro holds a hand forward in a traditional blissian greeting (the "STOP!" pose kinda). "Honored, Aiu. My name is Y'naro."

  "I will definitely take the smaller amount of idiocy in exchange for the smaller amount of slapstick.  As for Introductions, you can call me Dave."

  We're sure there is a traditional Deksharr greeting, but even if his player remembered what that was Daminicaverius wouldn't care right now.

A morbidly obese but well-dressed man easily recognizable as the city's mayor approaches, licking his fingers.  In his other hand is an open variety box of doughnuts, one of each kind missing, but the rest still there.

"Oh my oh my!  Such distinguished guests!  Care for a bite?"

He offers the box to the group.  "Take as much or as little as you like.  I'm stuffed at the moment myself.  Oh!  Where are my other manners?  You were all exchanging introductions.  Mayor Addleworth at your service.  I've been called to the courthouse to receive the infamous prisoner.  I would be honored if you all would join me as my V.I.P."

Y'naro is quick to add, "I am honored to meet you also, Dave."

Aiu nods and says, "Nice t'meet you both."

Then Addleworth shows up!

Aiu says, "Oh! Thank you!" and wiggles her nose to sniff at the doughnuts before grabbing one with her mouth. OM!

Y'naro says, "Yes. Thank you. I would be honored." he curiously looks at the doughnuts and asks, "What are these?"

Aiu pauses from nomming her doughnut to stare at Y'naro in disbelief.

  While not exactly kind and polite thoughts, if someone as fat as that was offering snacks instead of keeping all of them, they must have been serious.

  He can understand why Aiu and Y'naro would get consideration, but assumes he's not intended unless it was a broad case of 'eh, may as well bring whoever is nearby'.  "Maybe I'll grab one later, after Y'naro works out which flavor he likes more."

  Blissian's clearly prefer blood donuts-wait wrong bunny.

Addleworth raises his eyebrows in surprise at Y'Naro's question, but quickly beams as he considers the joy of witnessing someone's first taste of one of his favorite treats.

He smiles and nods to Dave.  "Thoughtful of you, my good man!"

To Y'Naro he answers, "This is a variety box of popular doughnut flavors!  The ingredients of this tasty dessert are 100% vegetarian!  Four, sugar, vegetable oil, and so on.  Perhaps you've tried cake?  Doughnuts are like a cake that won't crumble in your hand.  Very convenient for a person on the go or for sharing where a table isn't handy.  If you'd like to have one of each to decide a favorite or just for variety, by all means, enjoy!"

Y'naro thanks Dave and Addleworth, and then tears off bite-sized pieces of each flavor. With each one, he seems impressed.

Aiu says, "Can we eat and walk? We should probably be at the courthouse earlier than later."

Y'naro nods and says, "Lead the way, Addleworth. I think they are all so good... I can not decide."

  "I will be surprised if the cause for all the excitement reaches their destination any time soon compared to us. But we should probably eat and walk at the same time, yes."  Outside of them arriving just fast enough to keep the thread moving.

Addleworth was watching Y'naro with an expectant smile like someone watching a friend open the gift they just gave.

He nods to Aiu, "Oh yes yes yes.  Good point good point."

He beams at Y'naro's indecisiveness and leads the way as he was asked.

"Yes!  So glad you enjoy them all.  I can't pick a favorite either."

He offers the box again to Dave.  "There's plenty for all.  You're probably right about arrival times.  Part of why I allowed myself to cross the street for a snack rather than use the cafeteria.  Nevertheless, being ahead of time will allow us to take a quick tour if you'd like.  But we should get to know one another a little better either way.  I can get us started.  My name is Albert Julius Addleworth and this is my fourth term as mayor of this fine city.  The job is mostly a P.R. one, which suits me fine.  Less paperwork.  Outside work, I am a culinary enthusiast and antique vehicle miniatures.  How about yourselves?"

Aiu trots like a happy doggy. Because she is happy. What? She got to her destination ahead of schedule and has been fed a doughnut from the mayor of the city! What more could you ask for? OK, so a princess like her could ask for a lot more, but she is out and about on an alien world for the first time and things are going her way.

Y'naro is a bit surprised by the level of excitement this guy has over food. But the guy describes himself as a culinary enthusiast, so it makes sense.

Sooo much Blissian culture going on right now. Addleworth is sharing. More than that, he is giving Y'naro an opportunity to share. And everyone gets to share and share alike. And Addleworth is happy just to see others happy. Y'naro loves this guy.

Y'naro smiles, takes one of the flavors at random and offers it to Dave. "Here, Dave. Al just said there is plenty, so please have some."

Meanwhile, Aiu shares with Addlworth a bit about herself. "I am Global Oracle Aiu of Planet Gog. I was sent on this assignment because of my unique talents of fortune telling being more... interstellar than my peers. My work is my life!" That last part said proudly.

Following Aiu and Addleworth's examples, Y'naro says, "I am Mender Y'naro. I like to learn all kinds of facts. For example; did you know that the reason Serulian Sand turns blue during a sunset is because the mineral is mostly crystal that refracts all but the blue spectrum of light?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:46, Thu 08 Oct 2015.

  "Thanks, Y'naro" Donut get! Omn nom.   You regain 12 HP.   "I... was just in the area, basically."

  Just because you have the qualifications to work as... basically any part of the Battleduster crew, doesn't mean much when you're an unaffiliated civilian at the moment.

Addleworth looks impressed.  "A mender!  And an oracle!"

He lowers his voice and whispers with a wink to Dave, "And a secret agent."

"Such prestigious guests!"

He raises an eyebrow at Y'naro's trivia.  "Fascinating.  Sounds like quite the beautiful sight!  Well I hop you'll find the tour interesting.  There's a lot of history to be learned.  Lot of history."

Addleworth badges into an unimpressive looking employees only door.  The security officer inside smiles.

"Welcome back, sir.  May I have the names of your guests for their visitor badges, please?"

"Certainly!  A safety measure in case of fire," He explains, "Having a roll of everyone in the building helped save 3 lives in the unfortunate fire 72 years ago."

And now I can understand this reference.

Y'naro looks real excited at the prospect of learning some history! "Oh boy! I'm so excited! Which reminds me; did you know that when Drevinjer get excited, their heart rate increases 1.01 times the rate that the average Blissian heart rates increases from excitement? It's because the water content in their body is 1.01 times that of a Blissian."

After the bunny and puppy give their names, Y'naro looks over at Dave. "But what is it you do, Dave?"

Aiu doesn't interject lest she speak for Dave. And she is getting amusement from watching how people handle each other.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:38, Mon 12 Oct 2015.

  "Daminicaverius" Yes their player had to copy paste their own name, shut up names are haaaaaaard.

  "Not too much of late.  I spent a lot of time being bounced around from position to position when I actually was in military service.  A secret agent would have at least been paid better, for starters."

Badges are handed out, complete with convenient lanyards.  Addleworth smiles at Y'naro's excitement.  "Fascinating!  Now correct me if I'm wrong, a Drevinjer is a half-Blissian?"

He ohs at Dave's answer and looks impressed.  "A military man!  I'll bet you have a very lengthy resume."

For Y'naro's sake he throws another random factoid about the building being dedicated in honor of Cpt James Morrison of the Starship Cheeta.  This was back when starship naming conventions were different...

Y'naro soaks up the info like a sponge and looks to be enjoying it thoroughly. "Oh! Nono... Drevinjer are people who were made through Blissian science. Oft times, they are clones, but sometimes, their DNA is rearranged to be something else."

Aiu raises an eyebrow at Y'naro, but doesn't comment. She then looks to Dave. "Look on the bright side; when it comes to things like secret agents, they pay you better because you are at more risk of dying."

  "The actual job part of the resume is... less than impressive."

  Flashback segment, GO!

  'congratulations on completing your basic training' Desk job.
  'Congratulations on surviving your desert commando training' Desk Job.
  'This is how you disarm a neutron bomb'.  Desk job.
  'Congratulations on surviving your snow commando training' Desk job.
  'Now the most important thing about piloting a RH119 is-'  Desk job.

  This joke is already overly drawn out, abort flashback!

  "True, I only had to fill out the paperwork after something exploded, not be near the explosion... usually"

Addleworth is rattled by words like, "people created by science," "clones," and "rearranged DNA," but he quickly covers it up by smiling at Aiu and saying, "Good point that.  Good point."

He turns his smile to Dave.  "Some might consider having a mayor's name on your resume as a reference impressive."

He offers a business card.  "Feel free to add my name and that number to yours."

As the group passes a marble bust of an elderly mouse, he expounds, "Ah.  The Honorable Marvin C. Manderville.  One of my predecessors.  Marvin was credited with quite a number of achievements, including eking out a surplus in the budget in spite of the cost of building this wing.  But I'll bet that it was most likely a member of his staff that did the actual balancing."

Y'naro ohs and says, "...why would Marvin get credit if someone else did the balancing?"

Aiu says, "Because in this culture, rank matters a lot; whatever you do is credited to the person in authority over you." Aiu noticed Addleworth being rattled, but didn't bring it up. She just stores it away in her mind.

  While he figures the Blissians mean well when it comes to Drevinjer, he can understand why treating the subject of designer sentiments so casually would be unsettling to most.

  He takes the card, and nods "Thank you, Addleworth. I appreciate the thought."  The right connections and coincidences also help, along with rank.

OOC: Henry Ford.  Nobody believed in me!  Except the rich investor who paid for my first factory!... And second factory, after the first one failed.

Addleworth nods and smiles to Dave.  "No problem, my friend.  No problem at all."

He's glad Aiu fielded Y'naro's question.  That'd be an awkward one to handle, considering his own position.

"Bear in mind that that rule generally applies only to certain jobs and situations and even then it has exceptions.  For example, one newspaper headline might read, 'Briggs Captures Pirate Lord,' while another might read, 'Battleduster Crew Returns Victorious.'"

"Most good leaders are sure to give credit where it is due.  Ah!  Speaking of which, to the right you'll see the officers of my hard-working staff..."

He brags a bit about his underlings.

Y'naro is pleased. He seems to zone out for a moment, a pleasant smile still on his face.

Aiu asks about Addleworth's career life and how he got where he is. Y'naro snaps back to reality to try to pay attention to Addleworth's history.

Aiu, meanwhile, asks, "Not to sound impatient, but... when is the Battleduster due to arrive?"

  "I figure the Battleduster was due to arrive quite some time ago.  Or at the very least, it's crew is probably thinking as much."

To hear Addleworth tell his backstory, you would think he'd be just as happy being the head of a soup kitchen.

"I always enjoyed helping people.  I just happen to have a knack for team building.  So my friends and family encouraged me to run for councilman.  I soon learned that the Mayoral position is much more able to get things done for the community than my councilman position.  So the next election I ran for Mayor..."

To the question about the Battleduster he shrugs.  "I'm sure we'll find out more once we arrive."

A secretary peeks from one of the offices and arfs!

"Mayor!  You're needed in Courtroom One pronto!"

"Yes yes, I know, Clair.  Thank you.  I was headed that way."

Clair approaches hurriedly with an arm full of papers and mobile devices, tail wagging.

"I there!  I'm Clair, the Mayor's Secretary!  Nice to meet you!  Let's go!  Arf!"

She bounds down the hall then turns to look expectantly at the group.  Addleworth chuckles.  "Her energy never ceases to impress.  Let's hurry our pace some for her sake."

Y'naro suspects Addleworth of a bit too much humility.

Aiu chases Clair happily. "Arf! Arf!"

Y'naro shrugs. "I guess that's what you do here?" He rushes after the doggies. "Hold up! Arf!"

  "Hello Clair, it is good to meet you."  At least she seemed to enjoy her job, hopefully her pay was as reasonable as Addleworth would like to suggest as well.

  Wait, why is the bunny barking.  Why is this what you consider a mental sticking point. David?

Addleworth chuckles at all the hurrying and barking.  "It's what Clair does, in any case.  But if  you enjoy doing the same, then by all means feel free.  Feel free."

Clair smiles and tail-wags that two of the guests are barking.  She gives a friendly wave to Dave, tail wagging.

"Thanks!  Likewise!"

She opens the courtroom door for the group.  Inside is a flurry of activity between lawyers, bailiffs, clerks, and whatnot.  Notably, not photographers or video camera men are there.

Y'naro ohs at Addleworth's explanation.

When the bunch enter the courtroom, Aiu looks around. "....why aren't there any cameras? Wasn't this event supposed to be televised?"

Y'naro looks around. "Good point. That is odd. Unless this isn't the courtroom that the pirate lord is going to be brought to..."

  "It's more effort to confiscate or discredit video evidence of the proceedings than it is to say someone just made up what they wrote down." Can't let it get out that the government either played nice with an infamous pirate lord to get information, or other bad for public image political antics.

Clair bounds off to a clerk and starts chatting.

Addleworth looks surprised about the lack of cameras too and approaches the judge, an aging badger.

"Why no reporters, Ben?"

"Gag order," the judge answers, showing the Mayor a stack of papers, "Don't like being told how to run my courtroom, but it admittedly makes sense.  There's a high chance the prisoner may know state secrets and spill 'em on live news out of spite."

Addleworth ohs.  He takes out a fancy pen and signs the top page then hands it back to the judge.  He then offers the pen and rest of the stack to his guests.  "A simple agreement saying that should the prisoner spill secrets that would be dangerous if they got out, you won't be sharing those secrets with anyone.  If you don't feel comfortable with that sort of agreement, I could find you a nice comfy couch in the lounge with a TV to watch."

Clair hurries back.  "Got us seats!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:05, Wed 04 Nov 2015.

Aiu ponders. She looks the papers over before signing.

Y'naro, of course, trusts blindly and simply signs.

Aiu says, "The public is going to want to see this, though... does the courtroom have its own cameras to record the event rather than go live?"

  OOCly, he knows he needs to sign this to keep things moving along.  Fortunately ICly as a frequently mummified in Red Tape Deksharr he is used to this sort of thing, and signs with the swift efficiency born of seeing many quadruplicate forms.

  He's sure someone will make him sign something with conflicting instructions on the way out.  <aqua>"Thank you, Clair."</aqau>

The document is simply a more wordy version of what Addleworth summariaed.  Clair takes her own turn signing one and the stack is returned to the judge.

"Sure thing," she answers Dave happily.

She leads the group to the front row seats behind the defense desk.

The judge turns down Addleworth's offered doughnut box so the Mayor takes his seat, wiggles his fingers over the box as he considers which flavor, then digs in.  Clair offers him a cup of coffee and he gives her a big smile.  "Thanks, Clair!  You're the best!"

"Arf!"

Addleworth sips then points with the mug to a black kitty sketching on a big sketchpad.  "In cases where cameras aren't allowed, an artist draws the events."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 04:05, Thu 05 Nov 2015.

Y'naro says, "Wow... heh. I never was good at art."

Aiu says, "Me neither. But I suppose we're all out of our element here anyway. Except the Mayor. Unless you or Dave happens to be good with law and didn't mention it."

Y'naro says, "Only Blissian law. Sorry, but out here, I don't know a thing about how this is going to proceed."

  "Somewhat, but I expect the laws in play here tonight may not match what I've learned."  Laws are only obeyed when it's convenient for the chain of command, after all.  At least, this has been his experience.

Clair shrugs.  "Doing the unfamiliar is how one learns, right?"

Addleworth smiles and offers the doughnut box around again.  "And they say that students teach the teacher quite a bit.  I'm interested to see what your three sets of fresh eyes and ears will pick up on."

Two bailiffs spontaneously start hurrying for the main doors.  The judge speaks up.  "Everyone please take your assigned seats.  The prisoner is almost here."

Many take seats while others exit out the back doors.

Y'naro seems uplifted by Clair's statement, smiles at her and says, "Right you are, Clair." He then takes another doughnut from Addleworth's doughnut equivalent of a Handy Haversack.

Aiu smiles at Clair and nods. Then looks over at Dave. "We are in a foreign courtroom, after all." Aiu noms a doughnut right out of the box. Where she is from, taking food with your mouth is not considered rude, considering two thirds of the Grenu population do not have hands and thus, use their mouths.

The puppy and bunny take their seats and watch in anticipation.

Now that court proceedings are (supposedly) starting, Dave refrains from seconds.  He's sure Aiu would make a better 'onlookers more interested in donuts than arrest' story phot-oh right no photos.

He grabs a second donut.  "I suppose the fact nobody has mentioned which pirate lord yet, will be a moot point soon."

Clair smiles and tail-wags at Y'naro's affirmation then takes her seat and helps herself to a doughnut.  "This is so exciting!  Front row seats to an historic trial!"

Addleworth doesn't look the least bit offended by Aiu.  If anything, he looks pleased with Aiu enjoying more of one of his favorite treats.  Moreso that all his guests are accepting his offer.  He shrugs.

"I imagine this could wind up a very short trial regardless of who was captured.  Jurisdiction complications, multiple inter-planetary treaties involved, military procedures, and so on.  No doubt something was overlooked in the arrest and the defense will exploit that in a motion to dismiss."

"Have some faith, Mayor," the prosecuting attorney interjects with a smile, "I won't let them off the hook so easily.  I'm ready for those and have counters prepared."

"Glad to hear, my good man.  Glad to hear."

The doors open and the bailifs help guide in a wheeled plexiglas mini-prison with Angel Bard inside toward the defense desk!

--
Aiu would have been slack-jawed no matter which pirate lord was arrested. The kind of thing where you have to see it to believe it and once you see it, it is still unbelieveable. "Goodness... they really caught one..."

Y'naro gives an "oh" expression, watching her be carted in. His expression clearly turns into concern. "Well... it is a better thing than I thought that I came." he concludes. "This could involve Blissian politics also... and given my title, I can represent Bliss as if I were an official representitive."

  He looks over to Y'naro, then decides to not voice his suspicion his official representative duties are literal finger wagging and telling her she's been a naughty bunny and SO grounded.

  "I would be more surprised if they ever let her go even if that's what the legal paperwork said should happen." He is already surprised she survived transit.

  Being on the red tape untangling end of the usual Deksharr regard for laws has given him a somewhat dim view of the spirit or letter of them being held to when inconvenient for his superiors.

OOC:  Well, that's one way to get Angel into one of these threads I guess.

As Angel passes it becomes obvious that she's exhausted herself with crying, the fur on her face matted by her tears.  She casts her sad, bloodshot gaze first to the prosecutor, then the judge, then the defense attorney.  The prosecutor looks confused and uncomfortable.  The defense attorney looks saddened.  Only the judge seems jaded enough to look unaffected.

"Court is now in session," the judge announces.

Clair ducks her ears.  "Aw?  She looks so sad.  Not what I expected.  She always looked so defiant before."

Angel looks over.  When she catches sight of Y'naro, she looks surprised for a moment then quickly looks away in shame.  Addleworth eats more voraciously, pausing only to say, "We'll see..."

Others in the audience also comment to one another.  To those unfamiliar with protocol, it's now pretty clear that nobody is expected to keep quiet during the trial.

Y'naro gives her a concerned look when she looked at him. He asides to Clair, "No matter what people may say of Angel, she is a person with feelings and vulnerabilities like you and me."

Once court is in session, Y'naro raises his hand to get a turn. When he is called on, he says, "I have two announcements concerning this trial. First: I can and will represent Bliss on all political matters pertaining to Bliss and Angel's status as one of our people. Second: We have a guest here who is an Oracle of Gog. As such, she can provide insights for the trial."

Aiu nods. Now she doesn't have to introduce herself. And she is pretty sure the judge would have known she was coming. However, she does ask to speak and when given the chance, she informs, "I can see visions pertaining to an individual, but they will be vague unless the person is willing to let me see further. Any other insights I have will not be from my visions, but from my experience as an oracle."

Dave, having little political relevance (that he knows of), decides not to volunteer personal information or services at this time in the high profile yet not publicly so court case.

How boring, but boring beats someone calling you up at home in the middle of the night about (That thing Chris had to put up with).

Clair nodded sadly to Y'naro's point.  The judge nodded to the two aliens in turn to hear what they had to say.

"Good of you to join us.  Thank you for your offer to contribute to these proceedings.  I trust there are no objections."

He looks to both the prosecutor and defense.

"No objections," they both answer in turn.

"Good.  Now let's see the charges.

The prosecutor gestures from his tablet to the area in front of the judge's desk.  A holographic screen with a very long list of categorized crimes appears.  The format, order, and categories all conform to a long established Dekshar standard.  One familiar with it can tell at a glance that she is accused of everything from littering to genocide.

The judge looks at Angel.  "To these charges, how does the accused plea?  Guilty or innocent?"

"It doesn't matter," Angel answers, her voice cracking, "It's all over now.  I've failed."

The defense attorney clears her throat.  "Motion to dismiss on multiple grounds."

She gestures from her tablet to the hologram and the long list of accusations is shoved aside, replaced by an equally standardized list of the expected points that were mentioned earlier.  The motion claims that all of the alleged crimes happened in Tharian space, there are non-hostility treaties saying that prisoners must be tried in neutral space, the evidence for the more serious crimes is hearsay, and so forth.

"Objection!" the prosecutor interjects.

The judge nods.  "Yes, yes.  I know."

He looks to Angel.  "Answer the question.  Guilty or innocent?"

"No one is innocent."

Addleworth and Clair gasp and the defense facepalms like Angel just made the biggest blunder.

Aiu gets to work on trying to see visions of Angel's past.

Y'naro raises a hand. Whenever he is given a turn, he stands and says, "Clearly, the defendant is not entirely of sound mind. But her claim also insinuates she is no more guilty of the charges than anyone else. Is this interpretation acceptable to the court?"

  Dave gets the feeling that the infamous bunny is more emo than a goth teen at a muffin sale over something aside from being on trial.

  Not that being put on trial for everything from jaywalking to making babies fight to the death for your personal amusement is a fun experience either.

The judge looked like he was about to make some sort of statement, but stopped himself in favor of letting Y'naro speak.  He pauses with a stern, jaded look for both Angel and Y'Naro.

"No it is not.  However,"

He nods to the defense.  "Yes, yes.  I know.  Motion to have her evaluated for mental fitness to stand trial.  Granted.  You have 3 hours."

Addleworth asides to his guests, "This judge usually interprets dodging the question of guilt as admission of guilt.  Good play there, Y'Naro."

The several people begin to move around and exit.  The defense smiles at Y'Naro.  "Thanks.  That probably carried more weight coming from you considering your position."

Aiu gets a vision of Angel crying her heart out on Y'Naro's shoulder.  She can't see the look on his face, but something about him seems...  nervous?

Aiu hrms. She knew the pirate lord acting this way was a bad sign to begin with. She speaks up, "I would like to request on behalf of Gog's offer to aid in this proceeding that I be present at the mental examination so I can have more time to gather her past." She makes no mention of the future yet.

Meanwhile, Y'naro nods to the defense and replies to him, "The judge will have to remember that Angel is, in fact, alien. And you can easily make a side case of the fact that generic guilty feelings and admission of guilt are not the same. She could be feeling guilty of something entirely unrelated like the death of a loved one she didn't mean to cause by a verbal slip-up. Guilt, in such a situation, can cause one to not care about anything else, even execution or life imprisonment. But doesn't the law already have something like that? And don't most people believe she is remorseless? So why suddenly believe her remorse has any connection to the convictions now when it's convenient?"

  A long history of desk riding gives Dave the restraint needed to mention that's often the point in court proceedings.  Practical, yes.  Boring post, also yes.

  "Regardless of the eventual verdict, do you really think a few hours is enough time to work through even the smallest bit of her situation."  He wants to say baggage, but that really feels tacky applied to a pirate lord just now.

The judge nods.  "Gog's offer is accepted."

To Dave he answers simply, "Yes."

He gets up and heads out, making a phone call.

The procecuter swipes a copy of the motion to dismiss and heads out, also making a call.  A pair of bailiffs wheel Angel and her glass cage out.  The defense nods to the group.

"Thank you for understanding.  Anything to slow this trial down to get more time to get at the truth will be very helpful.  I've been at this for many years and I've learned how to tell when a person is ashamed of their crimes or if they're upset over something else.  Angel hasn't bee cooperative, but I've figured out she has something important to say if only she can find someone to trust.  I'll be a fellow Blissian will make more progress with her than any court psychiatrist."

"Has she had any food or drink?" Addleworth asks, sounding concerned.

"Nope.  Her arrest report says she ignored anything offered, ignored doctor's orders, and wouldn't even walk on her won.  It's like she's given up on living."

"Oh dear oh dear.  This won't do.  This won't do at all."

The defense shrugs.  "Can't force her to eat."

---

This is who I had imagined for the defense: http://swatkats.info/wp_2014c/...allie-briggs-016.jpg

Y'naro says, "If you can get me alone with her for the hours that remain, I will do everything I can."

Aiu says, "If she is more comfortable being alone with you, then I recommend that." She quiets her tone and adds, "I... saw the future and it had Angel crying on Y'naro. This is how we will get our answer."

Y'naro looks over at Dave. "You have experience in red tape? That would be great for more bought time..."

  Dave isn't really sure he wants to do anything that could be considered interfering with such a high profile government case.  But then Y'naro would probably be the one crying otherwise.

  "If that prediction is accurate, that still leaves the issue of them being willing to let her out, or you in with her in the first place. Proooobably gonna be the second one, if any.

  As for what you're asking... I don't exactly matter, so bringing up niche regulations would probably go over worse than you asking if the infamous pirate can go home if she says she's sorry" He'll try to think of something of use at least.  Even if she was totally guilty, the court proceedings have been depressing to watch so far.

  OOC: Oh man.  She's good at her job and all, but you just know we'll be interrupted by a problem that can only be solved with a fighter jet.

"Thanks!" Callie answers Y'Naro.  She looks encouraged by Aiu's prediction.  To Dave she nods.  "That's true, but I'm expecting the court psychiatrist to accommodate a Blissian Mender willing to help Angel open up.  Especially with a prophesy that it'll work.  Thanks for that, Ma'am.  As for niche regs, please feel free to bring those up with me so I can bring them up in court."

Dave can think of several ways that would likely tangle things in red tape.  Several forms requesting formal security measures such as background checks, bug sweeps, password entry for badges, and so on could be filled out and filed.  Several others relating to the political angle such as requesting formal verification of both Y'Naro and Aiu as official representatives of their respective planets, requesting that representatives of all signers of the cease-fire treaty be present for proceedings, request that a mediator be present, etc.  And there's also forms for complicating things relating to the media.  Such as recommending a reversal of the media blackout in favor of an open hearing where everything Angel says inside her bubble is scrutinized by a team of intelligence officers before release to the courtroom and media.

For every measure the Judge approves, the risk of a mistrial is diminished.  So it is in his reputation's best interest to rubber-stamp any delay tactic thrown his way.  Especially in this high-profile case.

Y'naro double-takes at Aiu's mention of a vision, just now letting it sink in. He gets a hopeful look and says, "So when can I get to see Angel?"

Aiu meanwhile looks at Dave and says, "So you able to think of anything?" she remembers getting curious about red tape once and then quickly getting overwhelmed and going back to what she does.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Sat 05 Dec 2015.

   Dave discards the 'everything they say filtered through government officials' idea immediately, because when you are trying to make things better for the defendant, that's pretty much the opposite.  Even if they were not an obvious criminal space pirate.

   "They did basically just let us all walk in."  Even if they had Addleworth to thank for that,  "So all the security checks and identification needs should be met.  Unless the prosecution just wants to let anyone who stands up and says 'I am totally a religious official who sees the future of this court case' be taken at face value.  More than that starts to approaches far too transparent attempts to put the trial off for days at the inconvenience of others who won't even want to show up, if not already here."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:54, Sat 05 Dec 2015.

"Right this way," Callie answers Y'naro.

The group is led to an observation room behind a two-way mirror.  In the adjacent interrogation room is Angel - cuffed to a sturdy steel table, and the court psychiatrist - seated opposite her.  Angel is staring blankly, unresponsive.

"Good point," Callie answers Dave, "I'll stick with that till things look dire enough that we'll have to resort to those less than subtle ideas you mentioned.  if you'd be so kind as to pull that up for me, please?"

She offers her data pad to him, "It would be a big help.  Thank you."

She intercoms the psychiatrist, "We have a Blissian Mender here offering to help.  Shall I send him in?"

"Please do," he answers, "Don't forget to have him sign in at the door."

Angel blushes and hides her face with her ears.

Clair asks, "Is this close enough for you to do your thing, Aiu?"

Aiu says, "It is. I can see her and she is not far from me." She closes her eyes and relaxes.

Y'naro goes and signs in at the door before entering. "Am I permitted to touch her at all?" he asks the psychologist.

  Infamous Pirate and Cute Antics are having some real causing some real conflicting impressions here.

  He distracts himself with busywork that he wishes he wasn't quite so familiar with, on the offered data pad.

"Really appreciate your help, Aiu," Addleworth says.

To Y'Naro he reminds, "See if you can get her to eat or drink."

"I'll go get some healthy stuff," Clair offers, heading out, "If you get anything specific requests, just call me."

Callie joins Dave with the busywork and tries to make polite conversation, "So how did you meet the Mayor?"

Meanwhile, Y'Naro is met with a welcoming smile from the psychiatrist.  "Dr. Philip Zimbardo.  Nice to meet you, Mender.  There are no rules against touching the patient in a kind way she is comfortable with."

<Blissian>"Lend me your palm, please,"</Blissian> Angel requests, tapping her finger on the table she's cuffed to.

Should Y'Naro comply, Angel will cup her hand around his palm to hide it from view and with the other begins to trace words on his palm: "Top secret.  Base 3 compromised."

Her voice breaks and she cries, "I've failed."

Y'naru complied, of course. His expression was one of slight worry for a moment, but the moment Angel cries, his worry turns into that of a cooing daddy and he moves to hug her. <Blissian>"My life for your life..."<Blissian> He says, a common blissian phrase that pretty much means Angel's life is more important to him than his own. "I wish I could tell you to take the time you need, Angel... but the fact is we only have a few hours to straighten things out."

He writes back into her hand; "It's not over yet. What needs done?"

Meanwhile, Aiu just headtilts as she tries to read anything at all with Angel.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:48, Thu 17 Dec 2015.

  Dave appreciates the thought, at least.  Even if he recognizes the desperate desire to talk about anything but forms for what it is.  "I was in the general vicinity of Y'Naru and Aui at the time. Perhaps he felt like rounding out the political figures with a bystander." well okay he also witnessed the same car crash, but there is already enough legal drama going on without bringing that up too.

  "It seems you are taking your job seriously enough, though were you hand picked or just the one this landed on?"  Hey, wanna defend a pirate client that barely anyone in the courtroom knows is?

  He glances up at the glass box, them back to business business business numbers.  Hmm, he doubts he's going to find out soon what totally wasn't touch talked (hard to pass notes in a glass jar)... Unless it would wildly inconvenience his life, then he's bound to find out.

"Public defender," Callie answers, "I defend those who can't afford private legal council."

Aiu gets a flood of visions.  At first of Angel's recent past.  She's alone and in an abandoned space station.  She looks nervous and hopeful, blushing deeply.  Suddenly she's surrounded by the Battleduster crew.  She drops to her knees in tears, points her gun at her head, and the vision ends.  The memories of her time as the leader of Tharia are blocked somehow.  The next several visions are from her distant past, going further and further back, and they don't paint a flattering picture.  Shooting Tom as he was trying to flee, spying on Dominus in search of any opportunity to kill him, planting evidence to ruin high-ranking Tharians, an especially brutal bar fight, her first contract kill...  The further back Aiu allows the visions to go, the deeper the sense of overwhelming darkness she feels, till she simply cannot look anymore.

Angel shrugs a cringy shrug, ashamed to be treated with kindness.  She switches back to Neplusultran when she writes her one-word reply, "War."

Out loud she cries, "My life is worth less than zero now.  So many good people are going to suffer and die thanks to my weakness."

Callie perks up.  "Well there's the answer we were looking for!  Now I can have her declared unfit for trial.  Than have her begin mental health treatment.  The trial won't be sabotaged by any suicidal guilty pleas."

The Mayor looks relieved.  "I can't help bug feel sorry for her.  It's hard to believe she's guilty of all those crimes."

"That's because she isn't," Callie answers, "I just know it!"

Addleworth smiles.  "She's lucky to have such a staunch ally as you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:55, Sun 27 Dec 2015.

Aiu's eyes are twitching and her head tilting some as "listens" to her visions. "Someone deceived her... she was hoping to meet someone and instead got ambushed by the battleduster crew. This was shocking enough of a betrayal she was ready to kill herself with her gun."

Meanwhile, Y'naro says, "No life is less than zero. Give yourself another chance for my sake." He traces a valentine in her palm and pulls her close for a hug.

  "I suppose her usual funds are a bit out of reach at the moment, yes."

  Well, Dave was expecting a Sham Trial. He just wasn't expecting this kind of one.

  Still, he won't ruin Callie's moment by mentioning she's probably still guilty for a hell of a lot by now.

Angel sobs, returning the hug.  "You wouldn't know.  You've never had to do that kind of math."

The court psychiatrist stands up to put a hand on Y'Naro's shoulder.  "Thank you, friend."

To Angel he says, "You need only ask if you wish to see me."

He then exits the room.

Callie nods.  "Even if they were, I'm sure most would refuse to represent her.  I really appreciate your willingness to help.  All of you.  I'll be in my office putting together the plea statement."

She heads out.

Clair sweatdrops.  "She has a formula for summing up a person's worth?"

Addleworth shrugs.  "I doubt she was being quite so literal."

Aiu watches Callie leave and the psychologist leave. "....did they just give us the means to break Angel out of custody?" she headshakes. "Not that we would. Just surprised." she goes to trot into the room Angel is in.

Y'naro notices Aiu's entrance and then looks back to Angel and says, "I understand you are under a lot of stress right now. But I have a friend here with me who was trained from birth to do exactly that kind of math. She can read your problem, predict the future, and pick the best route. Will you allow it?"

  Dave looks to Aiu, and says "Only if crying will break her cell.  Otherwise, no."  Or maybe he's taking the term 'break angel out of custody' as it normally sounds, when she meant more of the excuse me teacher can I be pardoned from space prison sense.

Addleworth head-shakes.  "I doubt anyone trying to break Angel out would get very far.  What with the Battleduster floating over the city and all."

Clair arfs and tail-wags.  "Oh but a break out would be so exciting!"

"Indeed indeed."

Angel is looking to be a bit relieved.  "Do I have a future?  I want to know.  No fortune teller warned me about today.  Maybe fate just forgot about me."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:12, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

Aiu nods and says, "Alright then." and trots closer to Angel, puts her paws on Angel's chest and touches noses in order to establish as much contact as possible before closing her eyes and concentrating.

Y'naro holds his breath in anticipation.

Bump!

  Well, that's clearly the most adorable fortune telling method around.

  "I would vastly prefer not to become a fugitive, even without a battleship floating overhead.  Boring can be good in reasonable amounts."


OOC: Links a swatcats character image, Callie barks like a dog.
Like I should talk, considering my Sonic alt situation.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 05:17, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

Addleworth chuckles, "That it can!  That it can."

He searches the empty doughnut box for crumbs before tossing it in the wastebasket.

Somewhere deep in Angel's subconscious, her survival instincts are screaming at her to kick the stranger invading her personal space.  But her instincts only manage to reach her mental voicemail.  Instead her heart tells her she is undeserving of the tender eskimo kiss because her first instinct was to kick a puppy.  Angel's eyes well up with tears of shame again.

The flood of conflicting and mostly disturbing visions Aiu sees would be overwhelming on a normal day.  But today has already taxed her, so it takes quite a toll on her.  Among the nicer visions is a scene with Angel on her knees wearing a gentle smile, tying the shoes of a kindergarten age boy.

But it gets crowded out by a vision of her being strapped into an execution chair.  And one of Angel snarling at a battered Sarah, saying, "I will rule this sector or see it burned to ashes around me!"

Another where the sun is darkened by an enormous fleet of black ships.  Another with base 3 warping all the stars into itself.  Another with huge ships crashing into a flaming Blissian city.  And so on.

During the visions, an elderly grenu woman's voice echoes in Aiu's mind.
"Destiny the page, choice the pen.
Justice and mercy in the heart of men.
Conceive in darkness, author fears.
Sow in hatred, reap in tears."

Aiu holds her position as long as she can, but Angel is easily able to see Aiu isn't there to take advantage of her as the grenu grimaces and twitches like she wants to pull away. She finally does pull away and recites the odd prophecy before she does exactly what her training has taught her to; stay standing if possible, take two small breathes that build up to three large breathes, all while going over what she saw in her head. Most people she looked over didn't have quite the extremes in different possibilities, nor quite the heavy weights. But Aiu has dealt with some heavy subjects before. Angel seems to be a concentration and extreme of a good deal of them.

Aiu takes one more deep breathe for good measure and looks back at Angel. "I saw a number of futures, Angel. I saw you in the electric chair, yet I saw you beating Empress Sarah near to death. I saw the sun darkened with a fleet of ships. I saw base 3 tear the stars from the sky and draw them into itself. I saw the fleet crashing into a blissian city. But... I also saw you with a genuine gentle smile, tying the shoes of a little boy. A black cat. It seems the prophecy is meant to tell you that you still have a future. Dark, light, evil or good is up to you."

Y'naro is quiet, of course, but has a concerned look.

  Dave knows it is not very nice, but he is wishing things were as simple as 'pirate captured, the end!' when it came to Angel's situation about now.

  He thinks about those jokes about 'I'm two weeks away from retirement!', and how in this case it was two weeks AFTER he quit.

Angel looks relieved at the mention of an electric chair, then confused and conflicted at the rest.  She shakes her head and tugs on her cuffs.

"I can't choose to make these chains go away.  More likely what you saw was a bunch of possible futures I might have had if I had not made the dumbest decision of my life today."

The prosecuting attorney shows up in the observation room and the Mayor greets him cordially.

The lawyer nods and says, "Got word she's certifiable.  Just as well.  I don't want to be a part of this trial.  I came by to warn you that this is quickly turning into a political poo storm.  Everybody and their cousin is sending a delegate to have a say in the sentencing.  'Cause a guilty verdict is a forgone conclusion.  At least that's what I'm guessing they're thinking.  It's a veritable diplomatic lynch mob.  You might want to consider distancing yourself from this whole mess.  I know I plan to try."

Addleworth gulps nervously.  Callie narrows her eyes at the lawyer suspiciously.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:43, Sat 13 Feb 2016.

Aiu says, "I never see the future of what might have happened if someone did something differently prior to the reading. Future-wise, I only see the possible futures of what could happen after the reading. Whether you die or not, there is a future. The difference is whether you choose to take the course that leads to you surviving."

Y'naro says, "Honestly, Angel... have you never been held prisoner in your life? Physical chains fade. The only chains that truly matter are the chains you put on your own soul."

  What's that?  Laws are likely to be ignored in favor or people throwing their political weight around? You don't say.

  He is admittedly, somewhat more concerned about (if accurate) visions of galactic scale destruction than Angel's feelings.  Even if the back and forth between 'We totally uphold the law!' and 'Except when inconvenient' does cause some shared sympathy.

Angel is too depressed to give Aiu any snide remarks like, "Pardon me, Ms. Infallible.  Here's your 'Always Right' badge."

Instead she's desperate enough to ask, "Then what am I supposed to do that gets me the happy ending?"

To Y'naro she answers, "My soul has been in chains since the day I was born.  Death is my only release."

Clair's phone vibrates, so she steps out into the hall to take the call.  Addleworth wipes his brow with a handkerchief.  "What are you suggesting I do?  Take an early retirement?"

"Oh no, nothing that drastic.  Just warning against taking sides.  And don't resist suggestions that the trial be held elsewhere."

"I dunno...  Not sure Angel will get a fair shake anywhere else."

Clair returns.  "Um...  Sir?  There's a whole bunch of psychics claiming that it is a matter of life or death that they be allowed to visit Angel.  What do I tell them?"

Addleworth gulps.  "Um..."

Y'naro says, "As long as you are alive, there is always another way. Look at everyone else. It was possible for them to live and not be trapped. So many examples in history show hopelessness being proven wrong by waiting just a little bit longer. Right now, you are away from Base 3, Tharia, and your entire empire. If you have been a prisoner your whole life, doesn't this fact mean that for once, you are free of all that?"

Aiu says, "Step one to happiness: Open up. Tell one or both of us what it is that got you caught and made you feel so down? I have seen you being caught, but I can not see why this surprise would sadden you rather than anger you. Right now, it is you who have the answers, Angel."

  While not very professional, Dave facepalms.  "I am amazed she got even this much consideration in the first place, and that is while assuming she is still guilty of all the obvious 'is a pirate' events."

"We at least try to be fair in this city," Addleworth answers.

He sighs.  "It's just that it's not always clear cut exactly what 'fair' is."

To Clari he answers, "Please assure them that we have a very capable oracle here and that she and a Blissian mender are working with Angel to bring about the best future possible.  Don't mention names without their permission.  Also...  advise them of the traffic situation."

Angel looks a bit surprised at Y'naro's mentioning "everyone else."  She considers Aiu's point...

Angel frowns and her expression darkens.  "The answers you're asking for can be used against me in the future should I survive this.  If you hadn't convinced me there is hope, I may have not cared that this conversation is being recorded by the people who want me dead."

If looks could kill, the two-way mirror she's glaring at would be atomized.

"Gimme your hand, Y'naro."

When he does, she secretly writes a number in his palm.  "Call that number and pray that the owner still lives."

As a mender, Y'naro will recognize the first set of numbers identifies the string as a unique quantum com number.  There is only one "phone" that can call that number, and it likely resides on Bliss under lock and key.  Not that a mender will have any trouble getting access.

Y'naro ohs and nods. "Time is of the essence. The sooner, the better. So I will get on that right away. I am sorry to have to leave you..." he gets up and exits, heading for the others. It would be rude to leave without saying goodbye. So once he opens the door, he says, "I'm leaving to check something. Mayor, if I understand correctly, Captain Briggs and her crew delivered Angel personally. Are they still on-world?"

Aiu stays with Angel and says, "I am sorry I am unable to tell you more for the time being... and the visions I got from you were a lot heavier than I am used to. So the best I can offer is to just... be here."

  "You have at least, been one of the few pleasant surprised today Addleworth."  Take notes, JERRY.

OOC: *Addleworth eats powdery food and licks his fingers.

Angel droops.  She stares at her cuffs.

"Oracle, huh.  Does your responsibility weigh heavily on your conscious?  I can imagine so many ways it could be hard.  You foresee a corrupt cop committing a terrible crime, meeting an early death in the process.  Should I warn him?  Or warn his friends.  Suppose they convince him to be on his best behavior that day only for him to later rage-murder a drunk for barfing on his shoes.  Or maybe I tell the news media and the entire police department winds up with a ruined reputation for a crime that never happened.  If only I hadn't warned anyone.

"Or there's politician who doesn't do anything illegal but stubbornly keeps making bad decisions.  I learn of his past skeletons.  I threaten to ruin him if he makes another terrible law.  Now for the general good of the people, I've become a blackmailer.

"I think I need some water."

Addleworth blushes a little from Dave's compliment and gives a polite bow.  "Good to know.  Thank you."

When Y'naro asks his question he gives Clair a furtive glance.  She gives a thumbs-up in reply and continues talking on the phone.  Addleworth clears his throat.

"Ah, yessir.  But if I may suggest - the capitol building has a secure line and is likely much more accessible..."

The prosecutor shrugs.  "Actually, Briggs is waiting in the courtroom last I saw."

"Oh dear oh dear.  Our guest of honor has arrived and I wasn't there to greet her.  This won't do."

Aiu says, "Oracles are highly respected on Gog and treated pretty much like royalty. Only the most important people sign up to get appointments with me. But they also know, going in, that I can see their past, their future, and that there is a chance will get to know some of their darker secrets. So I'm usually spared looking at more corrupt people except when they are even more scared of the alternative; a horrible decision. As to whether I blackmail people or stuff like that, I was raised into this job. There are rules about this job that govern my life just as much as social rules govern everyone Else's life. I usually do not make decisions, I simply observe and report."

Y'naro says, "Thank you. Please be patient. Aiu predicts a good outcome or a catastrophic one, depending on how things are handled. If I do not see you all for a long time, may you all be well and walk in peace." he then eads to the courtroom to look for Briggs.

Angel looks disappointed that Aiu can't empathize with her.  "I see.  So it's new to you to have hard choices to make.  Like whom do you trust with a vision that could spark a war if the wrong ears hear it.  Good luck with that.  I can only warn that words once spoken cannot be unsaid.

"I'm tired.  I'm ready to go to my cell now."

She's taken to a cell while the rest of the group is shown to the courtroom.  Clair offers to show Y'naro to the secure phone.  On the way to the courtroom, Addleworth picks up several snacks and drinks from vending machines and offers to share.

Once at the courtroom he cordially welcomes Cpt. Briggs and offers her a snack.

"We have things to discuss about your part in the trial," the prosecutor says, "I'll show you to my office."

"In due time," Briggs answers flatly.

She looks to Aiu and Dave.  "How is the prisoner?  Is she well?  Is she being treated fairly?"

The prosecutor looks surprised at Briggs' concern for Angel's well-being.

  Dave will go for snacks when notable military figures are not watching. Old habits.

  "As well as can be managed, given the circumstances."

Y'naro, of course, turns down the secure phone, thanking Clair. But he does take Addleworth up on some snacks.

Aiu takes some snacks, but only just enough to eat on the way to the courtroom. She is finished eating them by the time they are there. This is one habit she shares in common with Dave (namely not eating around important people unless said important person expects you to).

Aiu nods to what Dave says, "She is the one treating herself the worst."

Y'naro says, "Forgive my forwardness, Captain Briggs, but I have top-secret information given me by Angel. I would like the quickest and safest route to Planet Bliss. Emphasis on safest, since I fully expect to be attacked on my way there."

Aiu looked like she was going to say something, but looks over at Y'naro before saying. "....I saw visions that did include some instances that would alter the course of the entire star cluster. But what are you referring to?"

Y'naro says, "I am not at liberty to discuss what Angel told me or how she did. I have reason to believe many prying ears surround us and the only way to get safely to my destination would be..." he looks back at Briggs, "..you, captain. Your reputation is that of someone fully trustworthy and reliable."

Briggs accepts a snack and lemon drink from Addleworth.  "Thank you."

She looks relieved to hear Angel hasn't been mistreated.  She blinks in some surprise at Y'naro's mentioning top secret info.  Addleworth and the others are also surprised.  Briggs takes Y'naro and Aiu's warnings so seriously she immediately coms her crew.  "Briggs here.  Contact the Admiral.  Tell him that Mender Y'naro wants me to take him to Bliss on urgent business.  He suspects a possible attack between here and Bliss."

Addleworth blushes.  "My apologies.  I failed to make proper introductions..."

Briggs stops him.  "The security badges they're wearing suffice, thank you."

To Y'naro she continues, "Thank you for the vote of confidence.  This is possibly the safest place for us right now until we can get a proper escort.  Several other ships are already on their way..."

The Captain frowns and narrows her eyes.  "I'm wondering if Angel is using your trusting nature to manipulate the movement of the fleet..."

She calls her crew again.  "Advise the admiral to exercise caution.  The source of the Mender's information is suspect.  Perhaps requesting a Blissian escort meet half way would be wiser."

Addleworth is flustered and tries to be diplomatic.  "I for one believe Angel isn't lying to you, Y'naro.  She can't fake those visions Aiu had, after all."

(Will: Super blanking on Faction again)
(Chris: Tim may as well post then)

Aiu nods to what Addleworth says and looks at Briggs. "Why was Angel crying and ready to shoot herself when you met with her? I have the feeling someone betrayed her so deeply that she decided she would rather die, instead of her usual confident demeanor."

Y'naro is giving Briggs an endearing smile, then looks over to Addleworth and smiles. "It's OK. Brigss' caution is not unexpected or even uncalled for. Did you know that just 10 years ago, Emperor Dominus did exactly what Briggs is talking about? He fooled General Gartul of the Barrakian empire into believing there was trouble in Neutral space; trouble enough to move his flag ship from Tharian space. It was then that Dominus was able to move freely and head to the Neo System to attack, forcing the Strife Alliance to fall back to Neo, thus destroying the seige on Tharia." Finally, the bunny is spewing random factoids again.

  "Hard to imagine her having a crush on someone turning out poorly, but then it was also hard to imagine her in a box crying her eyes out."

  Failpost, but still more content than we've got from David than usual <.<

Addleworth returns Y'naro's smile and his nervous munching diminishes.  The prosecuter doesn't look any less nervous, though.

Briggs nods to Y'naro, "Thank you for understanding."

She looks a little surprised by Aiu and Dave.  "Hmm...  I don't know why she reacted the way she did.  Seems you all have more clues than I..."

She's interrupted by a com from her ship.  "Briggs here.  Understood.  I will call him in a few minutes."

She looks to Addleworth.  "Please direct me and those who interacted with the prisoner to the nearest high-security com."

Addleworth sputters.  "Oh.  Uh.  Yes.  Yes, of course, of course.  Right this way, please.  Right this way.  Oh dear oh dear.  This sounds serious.  Not good at all."

Briggs is sure to bring up the rear, but keeps her weapon holstered.  "So if our working theory is that she was stood up on a date, why suspect an attack on the Battleduster on the way to Bliss?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:50, Thu 07 Apr 2016.

Y'naro looks at Aiu. Aiu says, "Well I saw multiple possible futures. I saw Angel in the electric chair, yet I saw her beating Empress Sarah near to death. I saw the sun darkened with a fleet of ships. I saw Base 3 tear the stars from the sky and draw them into itself. I saw the fleet crashing into a blissian city. And perhaps oddest of all, I saw Angel with a genuine gentle smile, tying the shoes of a little boy."

Y'naro nods. "And when Aiu asked what got Angel caught and yet feel so down rather than her usual confident self, Angel said that the answer could be used against her in the future and that the conversation was being recorded by the people who want her dead. The rest I can tell you once we are safely aboard your trusted escort."

  "I meant that more in the sense of how it would hard to expect that to be the cause."

  Even if his player knew Briggs was a Deksharr, that still doesn't help the fact Dave has become somewhat skewed off average for his kind.  Even if he is the only PC still considering how spectacularly guilty Angel is for the whole Pirate Lord situation.

Briggs looks confused.  "So...  did she clarify who was meant by 'those who want her dead?'  Or was it obvious to you she has so low an opinion of Alliance justice that she expects her jailers to assassinate her?"

"The impression I got was that she was trying to get herself the death penalty," Addleworth answers, "So unless there's some fate she considers worse than death, I'm guessing Y'naro managed to talk her out of her suicidal slump and she was being more careful about confessing to anything incriminating."

Clair opens the door to a fancy lounge.  Inside are leather recliners, couches, a card table, a small wet bar with a fridge, and a fancy desk with two phones.  Clair shows Briggs to the desk and explains the phones.  "Both are encrypted.  But this one won't reach off planet, so you'll want to use the other one."

Addleworth heads for the bar.  "What can I get everyone to drink?"

Y'naro gives Briggs a curious look then says, "It's not a matter of having a low opinion, Captain Briggs. The Alliance, like every organization, isn't perfect and there are corrupt individuals in it who would have their grab for power and prestige. But I am positive that it is more so in Tharian space. And it would not take much for a few ambitious Tharians to bribe a few ambitious Alliance officials to speed up and ensure Angel's death so that the Tharian officials can have her throne and the Alliance officials can have their prestige. That's just all through history. But what Angel urged me sounded much more urgent than just history moving on and playing its usual tune. There is but one phone that I can use for this call and it is on Bliss. Which is why I need to get there and why I worry about being stopped on the way, or having even a secure line intercepted."

Aiu scriggly-faces. "Well at least she trusted someone enough to give secure information to....?" is all she can offer to the latest conversation piece.

  Dave is certainly tempted for otherwise, but is still boring enough to ask for the obvious.  "I will have some Water, please."

  Y'Naro sums up the cynical realism obvious for him, which just figures it is the Blissian having to point this out to the Deksharr.

Briggs doesn't elaborate on her own cynical views or clarify why she asked what she did.

To Y'naro she answers, "I needed the phone to discuss things with the Admiral."

while she makes the call and gets him up to speed, Addleworth serves drinks.  "That's one seriously fancy phone.  I agree with Aiu that it's good you managed to pull Angel out of her slump.  Here's hoping things turn out alright."

Briggs nods.  "Yes sir.  I will let him know."

Without hanging up, Briggs turns to Y'naro.  "Your request to be escorted to Bliss will be taken into consideration.  You will be notified of a decision within the next 12 hours."

Y'naro gets a grim expression, like he is weighing the option. "12 hours... if it were you, Captain Briggs... what would you do? 12 hours that could mean the end, or risk getting intercepted and thus be unable to stop the end?"

Aiu says, "Maybe I can help. I'll read your future, Y'naro."

Fun fact! This option didn't occur to me at first because reading the fortune of my own character isn't something that comes to mind. XD

Y'naro says, "Please do."

Aiu rushes for Y'naro, looking to read his future. They touch foreheads. Puppy bunny nuzzle fortune telling is go.

  Yes, life in prison for all the 'being a pirate' stuff might get a pass depending on how much 'everything is DOOMED' is Angel's fault it compared to her warnings preventing it.

Addleworth remains focused on doling out refreshments and snacks.  He wouldn't want to voice an opinion even if he had one.

Briggs considers Y'naro's question.  "Frankly, your immediate options are limited.  Considering how congested the city is, it's not like you're going anywhere soon.  You're pretty much limited to making calls.  You could talk to the Admiral, call Bliss and request a pick-up, call Empress Enselmo if you have a direct number, or visit Angel again to try and get more information.  If it were me, I'd try all my options."

When nuzzle prophesy begins, Briggs remains silent.  Aiu sees Y'naru's future from the bunny's point of view.  He's running down an unfamiliar hallway.  To his left is GibDave, armed to the teeth.  To his right is Aiu, pulling a hover stretcher with the bandaged body of Angel strapped to it.  Everyone is wearing body armor.  The sounds of a firefight is heard coming from behind.

Future Aiu is repeating something rapidly.  "...defeats their stealth!  Night Dreamers listening to Briggs' call!  Echo location defeats their..."

The vision ends with a sudden overwhelming sense of a dark malevolence, leaving Aiu with the headache of a lifetime.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:44, Fri 13 May 2016.

Aiu flops to the floor and says, "....ooooowww...." as some blood comes from her nose. "Captain Briggs! The... uuumf... the night dreamers are listening to your call... w-we need echo location."

She squirms her legs, writhing from the pain.

Y'naro is kneeling next to Aiu and giving a gentle head-rub while glancing around. "Everyone catch that?"

Gib Resal senses a disturbance in the narrative, like one mildly bland character has been mistaken for another.

Meanwhile, Dave examines Aiu as best one can when 'psychic backlash' wasn't really covered in their training.  "Yes, so it seems we have gone from dealing with well known dangers to galactic stability, to spook stories being dangers to galactic stability."  I mean, it's kind of hard to overlook the Not Deathstar, even with how big space is.

Clair immediately calls the nurse's office while Addleworth panics over what to do for Aiu.

Briggs remains calm and asks the Admiral, "Did you hear that, sir?  I don't know what to make of it either.  Permissio...  Yes, sir."

She hangs up and pulls the wire out of both phones.  She then uses her com to call for backup and pulls out a notepad and pen from the desk.  "I have been ordered to act upon my own discretion as the need arises.  My top priority is to ensure the safety of our esteemed guests."

She holds up the notepad so everyone can read what she wrote: "Room bugged?  Do not say aloud anything useful to the enemy."

"I'm a little short-staffed at the moment, so I'm looking for volunteers to help with security."

Clair arfs!  "I have some security training!  I'll keep the mayor safe!"

First thing she does is call up building security.

Brigs shows a note to Clair that says, "Nod if there is a bat on staff."

Clair nods.

Y'naro nods, pokes Aiu in a few spots and then picks her up like he's done this a thousand times. Y'naro hefts Aiu onto his shoulders so her head is easily accessed by the same hand that is carrying her and says, "I'll be caring for Aiu on our way to wherever you lead us, Captain Briggs."

Aiu says, "Body armor... umpf... Angel... check on... Angel..."

  Well, Sonar itself is relatively low tech compared to most sensors these days.  But not like any of them happen to have some on them.

  "That would be the most obvious target at this point in time, yes." Whether or not they can do anything about it though, is the question.

OOC: I'm really doubtful even with Addleworth, that Dave would have been let into the courtroom armed.

On the way to security, Clair calls and learns that Angel is presently safely locked up in holding, taking a nap.  Meanwhile, the office nurse shows up with a first aid kit but soon learns that the most she can do for Aiu is offer water and a pain killer.  Brigs has the guard on duty show the group into the security office and she begins to familiarize herself with the cameras and floorplan.

"Please supply the volunteers with body armor and weapons."

"Volunteers?  Body armor?  What's going on?"

Seeing as the Mayor isn't objecting, he gets to unlocking the storage for the body armor.

Clair is on the phone with someone else, asking them to come to the security office.  Addleworth is on the phone with the chief of police to ask if they can send SWAT with sonar.

Y'naro gives a soft, bunny smile to the office nurse. "Thank you..."

Aiu begins feeling better. "Phew... thanks, doc."

But neither Y'naro nor Aiu waste any time donning the armor.

Y'naro resists the urge to spout facts about the Night dreamers just yet. After all, he got the impression from Briggs that as long as is possible, the group is to not let the enemy know that the heroes know about the enemy.

.....he figures once they are running for their lives, he can spew data on the nightdreamers. Then again, even Y'naro isn't positive that what he knows happens to be true. These guys are shrouded in mystery and myth.

  Dave can suit up on the move if required, but with the way things go he expects he will have to literally drop everything to keep up with events.

The nurse smiles.  "You're welcome!  Happy to be of help.  Please don't hesitate to call if you need me."

"Oh dear oh dear," Addleworth says, "The chief tells me that even once his busy men become available, the gridlock will slow their arrival here."

"This floorplan is abysmal for tactics," Briggs complains.

"But among the best for fire safety," Addleworth defends.

Clair gasps from what the person on the phone tells her.  "Get over here quickly!"

She turns to the Mayor.  "Polo, a bat from P.R., says he sensed two invisible people sneaking toward the holding cells!"

Just then, a small red light blinks on the console and a buzzer sounds.  The nearby guard knows what that means and points at the monitor watching Angel's cell.  "Jailbreak!"

Sure enough, the door swings open!

Y'naro starts booking it towards the holding cells. "We're going to need something that packs a punch in an area like a grenade, but without being lethal."

  Insulting the quality of the cell security will hardly help matters, as tempting as it may be.

  "Planning on throwing it close to the prisoner then, I take it."  He follows after.

A security guy joins Y'naro and the others.  "Stun grenades are something the riot police might carry.  Strongest thing this place has are stun rifles.  They have a wide beam setting at least.  Less strong on that setting, but with enough of 'em shooting in the same area you could knock out a herd of elephants."

Down the hall a worried looking bat is headed toward the group.  "Security!"

The guard nods.  "Polo, right?  I overheard your report to Claire.  Follow us.  We'll be needing your echolocation."

"Uh... sure.  Ok.  I guess."

When the group is nearing the prisoner holding area, fire alarm goes off!  Addleworth's voice comes over the intercom, saying, "Not to worry, folks.  Just an unscheduled fire drill.  You know what to do!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:34, Tue 14 June 2016.

Y'naro answers Dave, "Yes. Invisibility won't protect you if you are hit by something that doesn't need to see you, such as an explosion." Despite his mastery at martial arts, he is guessing these guys are not only trained in hand-to-hand combat, but that there is more than one. Y'naro would have a hard enough time with one invisible guy who has some knowledge of combat. He didn't train extensively in blind fighting, having only taken some minor lessons in how to sense your surroundings with your other senses.

Aiu seems well enough at this point to begin running on her own steam. "I'm sorry to have slowed you down, everyone."

Y'naro says, "Not at all. Your ability has pointed us to where we need to go before it is too late." He hopes. "Welcome, Polo. We really need you right now."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:07, Tue 14 June 2016.

  Dave was more considering valuing the safety of the prisoner in the first place.  Though if he's willing to try and see a proper trial happen to the flagrantly guilty lady, why deprive her of common friendly fire courtesy either.

  "Do you have more crew nearby, Briggs." With such a high profile situation, they would have had help waiting in the wings of things went wrong... Or maybe she thought dealing with this by herself was more proper.  It's hard to always keep track between all the self serving 'but I'm following our traditions!' sorts and the self destructive 'But I'm following our traditions!' sorts.

Echo gulps.  "R-right.  What's going on?"

"Angel's escaping with the help of some invincible invaders."

Echo looks hopefully at the walkie-talkie, hoping to hear from Briggs that his help won't really be needed.

Briggs is in the main guard office still, tempted to feed the enemy false info over the radio but doesn't want to risk confusing or discouraging allies.  "Reinforcements are on the way, yes.  The enemy knows they can't risk a direct confrontation, so they likely have some sneaky get-away planned.  Do what you can to delay them from getting to it."

The group arrives at the entrance to the detention area.  The security door has a bullet-proof window that allows the group to see the empty hall on the other side.  Overlooking the door is a security booth.  The door to the booth is open and smoke is wisping out from the top of the doorway.  The security guard with the group gulps, readies his weapon, and slowly approaches the security booth.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:05, Mon 11 July 2016.

To echo's gulping and such, Y'naro just reaches over and gives Echo's ear a gentle pat. "Use what you have, friend." he whispers.

Y'naro lets the guy with the gun take point, but is right behind him. He figures if the guy gets disarmed, he'll back the guy up. But if Y'naro were to take point, he'd be in the way of the gun.

Aiu mostly stays behind.

Considering their reputation, Dave can't tell if 'invincible' was deliberate or them simply misspeaking.

"This is the dumbest sounding question at this time, but Addleworth how many powdery donuts do you still have."

Echo nods and listens carefully.  "Sounds like someone's sleeping in there."

Before long the guard is dragging an unconscious guard out of the shack.

"Looks like the invaders blasted the control panel."

By now Addleworth has evacuated with the rest of the staff and is trying to coordinate with the fire department outside.  He answers by radio.  "There's probably some in the cafeteria.  I've finished off my own."

Y'naro frowns. "Any chance anyone present happens to know how to jury-rig a blasted control panel to function?" The closest most people ever hear to what sounds like a blissian cursing. Even though he honestly wasn't. Language is funny that way.

Aiu headshakes. "We just need to get to the holding cell as fast as possible."

  "Well, hardly time for that silly idea then."

  He starts dealing with the panel, and says "Where is the other entry.  Locking themselves in is impractical, unless they intend to die during their task.  Though I would not put that past their reputation."

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:08, Sat 30 July 2016.

"There's a fire door at the end of the hall.  Leads to the back lot."

The control panel is damaged beyond repair without the proper tools and parts.  But a few bits are still working.  The intercom, a warning light indicating that the security door is unlocked, and a keyed switch for a lockdown.

The guard with the group recovers the keys from the unconscious guy and uses them to turn the lockdown switch.  A loud alarm sounds and lights flash.  A click sounds from the security door, but the indicator light shows that the door is still unlocked.  Should anyone check, they'll find that the door's locking bolt is jammed open with a bit of metal wedged in it.  There'll be no locking the door without a complete rebuild.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:46, Sat 20 Aug 2016.

Y'naro says, "I'm going in." before heading into the area and checking the cells for Angel and/or signs of the infiltrators. If there is no sign of any of them, he will quickly motion for the others to follow him to the fire door.

Aiu stays behind until motioned to follow, worried she would only get in the way, really.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:45, Sat 20 Aug 2016.

  Dave goes in alongside Y'naro because if they are already here to grab one bunny (if obviously more infamous and relevant to recent events), they probably would not mind grabbing another if they were still in the room.

As soon as the security door is opened, the bat that came with the group covers his mouth to suppress a gasp.  He reaches to grab Y'Naro to try and stop him from going through, shaking his head emphatically and holding his finger to his mouth to indicate the group should be quiet.  He then pantomimes that there is someone around the corner with a hand to his mouth, the other hand raised like he has something ready to throw.

If allowed, he'll carefully close the security door so he can explain verbally that it sounded like someone with a gas mask standing over several unconscious people.

Y'naro is stopped and pulled aside. And allows for the explanations. He gives Echo a smile and says, "And this is why we needed you, Echo."

Y'naro looks at Dave. "Don't suppose you have any ideas?"

Aiu says, "I don't know how important this will be, but I can establish a telepathic link with any of you. It is relatively short-ranged, but enough that I can link your thoughts as long as you are within 50 feet of me, so you won't have to talk."

  "You should probably hook up with Echo, so we have two people able to tell where they are.  Or more if you can share that."  He checks his gun.  "If you can't, them camping over the bodies means it is more a matter of how much armor and shielding they also brought rather than any chance to miss."

Clair wags her tail and suggests, "Maybe if someone runs really fast down the hall, they can lure him into wasting his shot so the rest can rush him!"

Echo gulps and offers, "We should all guard our ears till after his grenade goes off..."

The guard looks nervous and shakes his head.  "Look.  It's not worth you all risking your lives for an evil pirate lord.  Just let the SWAT guys handle this.  They should be here any minute."

Clair headshakes.  "Not with that traffic jam in the way."

"Even if it takes 'em all day, she's not worth it!"

Aiu says, "You don't understand the situation; she is worth it. If she winds up in the enemy's hands, this whole world will fall under heavy attack and millions will die."

Y'naro nods. "No matter ones' feeling about the prisoner, this is a matter much bigger than any one person. Thank you for your concern, but nobody is asking you to risk yourself. I choose to risk myself."

  "While remembering she's still guilty countless actual pirate related crimes is important, I would not be surprised if the intruders are hoping apathy makes their job easier in letting them get away with it."

  Hmm, Y'naro wants to fight.  Time to be a little more impulsive before they end up with two dead rabbits today.

  Tossing a stun grenade into the room is all well and good (and done), but diving in and shooting across the Echo estimated enemy positions while a moments from detonation grenade is far more attention getting is just Cop On The Edge With Nothing To Lose enough to try (Which he does).

  It's going to suck being in the same room, even covering his head after shooting.  But that's what a crowd of people outside the door is for, right?

( <.<  Photobucket sucks for image editing.  Will get visual when I can.  The baddy is standing at the cell that's the 2nd closest to the security door.  Opposite him is Angel. )

The guard gives no answer, confounded by what he's hearing.

When Dave does his Leroy Jenkins maneuver, several things happen all-at-once like.  The villain throws his grenade at Dave.  But since he wasn't expecting anyone to charge at his invisible self with a stun grenade and suppression fire, his aim is off.  His toss misses Dave and the grenade lands behind the charging Dekshar in the T-intersection.  Dave's experience tells him that the enemy's grenade looks like a stun grenade.  (It becomes visible when tossed.  No one else will be able to tell the difference at a glance.)  What Dave sees in the brief moments before the two grenades go off:  Several uniformed guards are laying motionless on the ground.  A person in shiny silvery tights is lying motionless near an open cell door.  On the top of that person is Angel's motionless body.

One of the guards gets yoinked by the invisible baddie.  He's trying to use the guard as cover from the stun grenades and cover fire.  Probably won't help him any.

While this is all happening, Echo is diving into the guard shack and covering his ears.  Clair tries to scoop Aiu to safety.  And the guard tries to yoink Y'naro into the guard shack.

( In game mechanics terms, the grenades will go boom at the end of the round.  AKA the end of Tim's turn.  I don't know the yield Tim had in mind for Faction stun grenades, but I was imagining that usually you'll wind up knocked out for a few hours.  Unless you get a Star Trek style stim injection to wake you up.  2 grenades in the same area would likely have twice the effect.

The silver tights is a de-activated stealth suit.  Both are wearing light armor under the tights, but it doesn't help them much.  Mostly to keep them from getting broken bones if someone runs into them at full tilt for lack of seeing them.  It also helps with some of the side-effects of stun weapons.  Like having fewer painful cramps after being revived with a stim.

Tim's setting, so he can veto any of this junk I had in mind. )
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:44, Sun 23 Oct 2016.

Aiu is easily snatched and lets out a tiny squeak-yelp like a dog whose tail was stepped on, but doesn't mind being whisked away.

Y'naro steps aside for cover and flops his ears back to protect his hearing, but keeps his eyes on the doorway. "Dave!" his expression melting into fear as he is worried he somehow got Dave in trouble by being ready to go into that situation. He can only hope the kaboom will prevent the enemy from escaping immediately. In a burst of inspiration, he hurriedly takes his shirt off and throws it to the doorway so he can watch for it getting disturbed by someone stepping on it!

Yes Y'naro, it is at least.... somewhere over or under 50% your fault.

At least something that worked out is your fault though, yaaaaaaay.

"Arf!"

There's a few moments of tense silence, but the shirt on the floor doesn't budge.

"What's going on in there?" Briggs asks over the radio.

"Dave kamakazed the badguy!" Clair cheers!

Y'naro rushes into the room, wanting to not waste any more time. He looks around at the room to see what happened.

Aiu stays behind cover.

Lots of KO'd people, including two cyber-ninja looking persons, Angel, and Dave.

Y'naro calls back, "We're good to go! Quick! Help strip the infiltrators of their gear while I tend to Dave and Angel!"

He checks each person first (Dave, then Angel, then the other two) to find the most injured. Once he is sure each person is at least stabilized, he will tend to Dave.

Aiu trots in and begins helping with stripping one of the cyber-ninja guys of their gear.

  Fortunately, it's Dave's common sense that was injured... Or is that unfortunate?

The utility belts have various tools for infiltration and extraction.  The stealth spandex looks like they were sewn into place...  Apparently Night Dreamers don't believe in zippers?  Or this was a weak attempt at keeping the tech to themselves.  What do they do in a bathroom emergency?  The suits can be cut off no problem.

Before long, Y'naro wakes Dave with the help of a well-stocked first aid kit offered by the one conscious guard.

Aiu fills Dave in on the situation while Y'naro goes to check the infiltrators for cyanide or whatever suicidal things in their mouths, nose, etc. When he gets to Angel, he wakes her and fills her in on what's going on so far.

 Rise from your grave-wait you weren't dead Dave.  "I'm glad to see my uncharacteristic impulsiveness had practical results..."  Spite can work out like that.

  Angel is lucky Dave has a soft spot for legitimate due process.  Is the only PC not sympathizing with the space pirate.  Is the first one to hurt himself saving her. Of course!