[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "My, my."
[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "How unpleasant."
[Radio: (F) Public] Option Yammark transmits, "...Can't beat that one. Sorry."
[Radio: (F) Public] Dust Man transmits, "To think the Maverick Hunters and Repliforce can agree on which device goes where."
[Radio: (F) Public] Feste hmms.
[Radio: (F) Public] Option Yammark transmits, "Huh?"
[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "I confess I was wondering much the same thing."
Ruby's Diner
Hey look, it's Feste! Have a seat, take a load off...
Welcome to Ruby's Diner, a resturaunt that is now almost legendary due to it's usual clientel. It's a small but quaint place, it's walls covered in vintage posters and newspaper clippings from the dawn of the century. For the first timer, one might want to 'gaze' at the walls and check out all the things the staff and regulars have managed to collect for the walls.
The staff is always friendly, if not a tad cynical and blunt at times, but the food is always good and fast, the coffee is always fresh, and Trish always the back of her hand ready for people who act out of line, her favorite target being Maverick Hunter pretty-boy and XO Zero, who has been a regular here since the day it opened. So sit back, relax, and enjoy some conversation. Everyone knows your name around here, and even if they aren't glad you came, they're sure to still have a bit of conversation with you.
Contents: Contents:
Exit <X>:
Chest arrives from the
Chest has arrived.
Chest hovers into the diner with briefcase in hand and cigar in mouth, peering around. "So this is the infamous Ruby's Diner, eh?" He asks nobody in particular. "Funny, I thought it'd be bigger." Scootering into the main dining area, the GNN Owner takes the time to gaze at some of the various memorabilia hanging on the wall. Chest gets a good chuckle out of the picture of Bass being run over by a bus. Once done, Chest hovers over to the main bar area and awkwardly sits down on one of the stools. From his briefcase, Chest produces a newspaper and quickly flips to the business section.
[Radio] Transmission detected: :yawns. "Stupid ... Stingray."
[Radio] Transmission detected: Spin ... ... and reporting.
[Radio] Transmission detected: ... ...
[Radio] Transmission detected: Greetings Yammark!
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "How goes your drone modifications? *sounds of digital paperwork*"
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "I think the Options are doing fine! I've almost got the microphone working."
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "Good, good."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "I'm working on a smaller one, too."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "You know, for scouting."
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "Nice."
The Fool, back to his 'work' after a short convalescence, has scouted out Ruby's in search of food. He's heard a lot about this place, too, but hadn't had the opportunity to actually eat there until now.
Seated comfortably at the counter with a cup of coffee, Feste quietly sips and watches as Chest enters. Who could that be?
Glyde Loath arrives from the
Glyde Loath has arrived.
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Good afternoon."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Good afternoon, dear Fool. It's been a while."
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "So it has. A long, awfully /boring/ while."
Who could that be? Who could that be?! Someone who doesn't recognise Chest's shining image of beautifulness? Chest would be hurt if he could read minds. And if he cared about people being able to recognise him. Regardless, Chest, still sitting upon his stool at the bar, finally attracts the attention of one of the staff. "Alright now," He says in his gruff tone as he sets down his newspaper and puffs on his cigar. "Eggs overeasy. And cook 'em for cryin' out loud. None of this partially gooey crap that some of the other places try to pass over as edible. Toast, but not burnt; if it's burnt I ain't payin', and coffee. Just normal black coffee. You put any of that sweetner crap in it and I throw it at you." The waitress sighs and toddles off, possibly plotting Chest's death.
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I'm sure. Where were you?"
Oh, now this is priceless. Feste sips at his coffee again, decidedly amused at Chest's little spectacle. But then, you could argue that he's /always/ amused... but hey. He cocks his head slightly, vaguely remembering something he'd seen about the owner of GNN -- oh wait, those editorials! Right. Guess that'd be Chest.
He smirks and continues observing silently.
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Ruby's."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "For a whole /week/?"
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Oh, heavens, no."
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Only for an hour or three."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "... Ahh. Good. I was puzzled for a moment."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I hadn't thought the proprietors had taken to kidnapping people yet. So where were you otherwise?"
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Oh, the usual places. Hither and thither. Home."
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "That sort of thing."
Chest grumbles to himself as the waitress wanders off to take someone else's order, "Geez, the attitude of the staff here. It's amazing anyone ever comes here." Flipping open the paper again, Chest scans down the stock quotes and abruptly swears loudly. Then stops and smiles. Then swears again. Then smiles. Then swears. And he finishes off with another smile. Folding the business section up, he idly notes, "Average day." It's around now that Chest realizes he has a watcher, and peers over at Feste as if to say 'yessss?'
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I see. Recovering, I hope?"
Outside, a loud whine of powerful fan jet engines is heard as a vehicle descends into the parking lot from the sky. It is impossible to see at first, due to altitude, but a second later the thing alights upon avian limbs -- folding it's wings back against it's body in a decidedly birdlike manner. It stands, appearing almost like a ride armour -- but different, fully enclosed like that of a small mecha instead -- and then ambles forwards with graceful steps into a parking spot -- whereupon the torso lowers as it squats downwards, a hatch opening a second later. Glyde Loath absently climbs out, slamming the hatch behind him and heading towards the Diner. Halfway there he remembers something, and pauses, digging his keys out of his pocket. Absently, he points the remote at the machine and presses the 'lock' button. A *CHIRP-CHIRP!* indicates it has been locked and the security system armed. This done, Glyde strides confidently into the place -- seemingly in a good mood, for he is all smiles today.
Feste merely watches, smiling. Does he want something? Who knows. As Chest looks over, Feste shrugs slightly. "Well? Carry on," he says, amiably -- as if that justifies his behavior. Almost as if Chest is putting on some sort of show for the Fool. Odd, that.
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Something along those lines."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Good."
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "I'm touched by your concern."
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Couldn't have myself being brought up on murder charges, now, could I?"
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "Self-defense."
Abernathy arrives from the
Abernathy has arrived.
Chest rolls his eyes and mutters, "I was warned about the fruit-cakes in this joint. Looks like they were justified." Turning back to his paper, Chest is just about to scan the front pages when it sounds an awful lot like a plane is landing just outside. Chest looks over his shoulder. Or a huge bird ride-armour thing. Whatever. Chest is about to start asking where the Hell his food is that he ordered, like, two entire minutes ago are when Glyde walks in. "Nice entrance," He admits.
Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Feste.
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Hardly."
Abernathy receives a radio transmission.
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "*amused* I would've mopped the Plaza with you."
Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Feste.
[Radio] Abernathy sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "<likewise amused> You say."
Glyde Loath jams his remote control into his pocket as he enters the diner, jamming his hands into his pockets a second later. It takes him a moment for his eyes to get used to the dim light of the place, and when they do they register a certian surprise. "Huh." He says, not noticing Chest nearby yet. "The social elite of the world come to eat in THIS place? I could buy this with a week's wages! Good Lord!" He makes his way through the various clientel to ease himself into a chair near to the GNN owner, glancing at the pepper and salt shakers on the table as though they were relics from a bygone era. He then seems to remember the other spoke to him. "Huh?" He asks. "Fruitcakes? Oh, wait. You ment something else." He pauses. "The hell did you.... Oh, Right. Enterance. Thank You. The Glyder does tend to turn a head or two. Will even more so, once I have it repainted." Metallic fingers drum absently on the table-cloth covered surface of the table as he waits for the waitress. "Say. I know you, don't I? Chest, Right? GNN Owner?"
"Fruitcake?" replies Feste, sounding indignant. "No, sir, I am just a Fool." Yeah, that explains a lot. His attention is stolen by the entering Glyde Loath, whom Feste determines will be *much* more amusing in the long run. He turns away from Chest to peer at Glyde Loath, chuckling quietly. This is going to be interesting.
Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Feste.
[Radio] You send Abernathy a direct message: "So I do say, m'lord."
Chest squints behind his totally not-gay green shades at Glyde and tries to figure out what's wrong with this yahoo. "That's right. Chest GNN." He says that as if GNN is his last name. Who knows; maybe it is. Regardless, he holds out his hand for a quick handshake. Peering over at Feste, the media mogul shakes his head. "Whatever. Fool, fruitcake." Back to Glyde, "And who might you be? I'm guessing I'm not the only one that decided to find out if this place really does live up to its reputation of being all that, eh? I can tell you already that it isn't the case. I /still/ haven't been served."
Hard on Glyde's heels enters yet another patron of the little establishment, head bowed and hands tucked into pockets as he shoulders his way through the lunch crowd. He glances up, once, peering through wraparound shades for his target -- who should doubtless stand out, even with the usual press of people crowding the diner. Blond hair, blond hair -- ah! The newcomer turns his steps toward Feste, sneaking up behind the Fool to loom -- as best someone five inches shorter can -- over the Fool's shoulder.
"Harassing the clientele again?" Abernathy drawls, softly.
Glyde Loath reaches out with a black armored hand, clasping the other's with a thoughtful look towards Feste -- although he doesn't comment. Indeed, he's reserving his judgement until things have been made more clearly obvious to him. Nonetheless, he does notice the other's glance -- nodding in his direction with a reasonably aimable expression. And then, he turns back to Chest. "Thought so." He says. "I don't watch a whole lot of holovideo, but I have seen you around. Anyway, Glyde Loath is my name. I run the odd place here and there. My Uncle, Lex, you might have heard of." He pauses for a moment as Abernathy enters; peering towards him -- and then returning his gaze towards Chest. Of course, Glyde himself is very blonde -- so might just be noticed. Either way, he looks thoughtful. "Tell me.." He hisses, to Chest. "The hell is it that's so.....fancy about this place? I mean, the prices are ridiculously low, I'm used to a proper Filet Mignon costing a hundred zennies. Here, it's.....thirteen ninety nine. What's WRONG with it?! Rejects from another pl..." He falls silent as the Waitress approaches, mumbling. "Uh, What's the Special?" Glyde asks. "Cheeseburgers, fries, and veggies." Glyde sighs, audibly. "Right, Right. Whatever. Just....give it to me. Although..." He tosses his head up; right eye obscured by a bit of hair. "Better be the best damn Cheeseburger you have. It better have a SONG and DANCE routine! I'm not ea..." She just walks off, muttering something about wackos. Glyde looks momentarialy furious, before he reasserts himself, taking a long breath as he finishes to Chest. "Right, and as I was saying.......I admire your organization. Very well executed, and profitable -- and isn't the profit one of the most important things?"
[OOC] Chest says, "On a completely unrelated topic, I hate you and hope you die."
The Fool returns Glyde's thoughtful glance, though his red-eyed stare is arguably more harsh. Something vaguely taunting about it, too.
He remains completely silent even as Abernathy approaches and greets him, in his own little way, eyes fixed on Glyde and his outburst. Feste fights off a laugh with all of his willpower, even as he turns to properly look at Abernathy.
"Not yet. So far they've been harassing me," he answers softly, still very, very amused.
Double has arrived.
Chest finally gets his eggs and toast. "What, no
orange juice?" He asks the waitress, who closes her eyes and begins
counting to ten. "I'm pretty damn sure I asked for orange juice also, missy.
What kind of establishment are you trying to run here? Maybe you're hoping I'll
just choke on the toast and have nothing to wash it down with and then /die/.
Is that it? I should talk to the manager." Chest snorts and the waitress
gets an expression that says 'why yes, that's exactly what I'd like to have
happen'. Back to Glyde.
Chest nods to Abernathy and greets, "Director. Nah, this fella just came in. Ain't doing anything wrong. Yet. The GNN
Manager nods to Loath and accepts the sucking up like most people accept
sucking up. "Lex... Lex Loath? Yeah, I've heard
of him. Big shots in
Glyde Loath shrugs his silver
and black armored shoulders slightly in a non-commital
gesture. "Big-Shots? I wouldn't put it that way.
Rather, we Loaths are leaders among the Business
Community -- in not just
oO(Smooth...)Oo
"Oh, for shame. I'd thought you'd fight back," Abernathy murmurs to Feste, offering Glyde and Chest both a slight nod of acknowledgment. Yes, peons, he has heard your greeting and it is good! Or something like that. He does smile thinly at the hell both Chest and Glyde give the waitress -- and moves himself out of the woman's way, so as not to be an obstruction. "Or are you sticking around merely for the amusement value?" There's undertones of humor there, especially as Glyde begins speaking. Oh, the corruption of the merchant class ...
Feste quietly bites his lower lip in an attempt not to burst out laughing. Italian Stallion?
"I am merely waiting for the best opportunity to strike, sirrah," he replies, still watching Glyde and Chest like a hawk. Heehee. Yes, he's biding his time. His opportunity will come.
Chest's eyes glaze over as Glyde talks about how wonderful the Loaths are. He's heard this sort of thing before. "I'm always interested in offers, young man." Although he isn't fond of Glyde's profit profit profit mentallity, he can understand it. Chest snorts and says, "As well you shouldn't, Glyde. Anyone that's purposefully using this war to benefit themselves is an asshole, plain and simple." Chest takes a sip of his newly arrived orange juice. "Wow, this tastes like crap," He tells the retreating waitress. One could argue that /Chest/ makes a profit from the war, but he could argue back that he's just doing his job and it doesn't affect the war in any way. "You still haven't told me where you're going with this." He ignores Feste as best he can.
The door slides open to the Diner, the silence that strikes most of the occupants is enough to signify that someone very unexpected has just stepped into the establishment. For a second its not readily apparent who it is, the coat rack obscuring the new patron save those single rather telling horn/helmet design that stands taller than the rack. After a few moments of discussion with the waiter who greeted him, Double finally comes into view. The Maverick General smiles widely as he notices a single table and its occupants. Reaching out, he grabs the waiters shoulder and mumbles something to him.
The second passes and the waiter approaches the table without Double, Double remaining standing quietly and seemingly good naturedly where he is, "Umm, excuse me...but I've an odd request, the gent...the sir who just entered would like to add a chair to this table and join you."
Oh, that's fun. Abernathy is in slightly better control of his amusement than Feste is of his, and so merely offers Chest and Glyde's banter a twitch of a smirk. "Ahh, what patience. The desire to break into this must be overwhelming, I'm sure." He's keeping his voice purposefully low, his quiet commentary meant really for Feste's ears only. "Sweet hypocrisy ... " He glances over at the waiter as the man passes by, but as neither he nor Feste are currently occupying any table, he ignores the waiter's request. Teehee.
A slight twitch of the head, and a glance over his shoulder yields the 'sir' in question, however -- and his little smirk remains rather firmly in place. Why, hello, Double. This turn of events goes unremarked on, however.
Glyde Loath responds to the crap comment first -- tilting his head to the side with a somewhat surprised look. "You expected it not to taste like filth?" He asks, quickly. "It's less than three zennies. What did you expect? What you pay for is what you get, Friend." He leans back in his chair then, throwing a look to Feste and Abernathy -- an unreadable sort of look, as though the younger man were wondering how to deal with them. He can't actually hear what they're saying, which is probably a good thing. He then responds to the rest of the Newscaster's words. "Indeed. Asshole isn't quite a strong enough word for it. Afterall, things that were mentioned a moment ago can result in death, and you'd have to be a cold individual to profit in that." He grumbles. "Where the hell is my cheeseburger?! Are they chasing the cow around the parking lot, or something? Damnation!" He looks at his watch, mumbling. "Anyway. Offer. Yes." He clears his throat. "No doubt you were admiring the fine bit of machinery that I came here in. Does GNN have anything similar? Even the like of a Helicopter or Hover-Vehicle? I'm fairly sure you don't. What would you say if I were to offer you a machine like that, to use for Aerial Photography and tracking fast moving events? Doubtless, it would be useful. You see, I am searching for gainful employment in the public eye. I feel I could be of use to you, in your organziation." So, that's what he was getting at. Either way, he looks up too as Double enters -- managing to contain a frown, somewhat. Well, now. This is interesting. Afterall, he only need to see a bit of such a high profile figure to recognize him.
"Quite," Feste responds simply, reaching backward for his cup of coffee. Tasted okay to him, but hey. He remains silent, still biding his time... that, and they're doing well enough in the foolery department without him.
As the 'gentleman' arrives, Feste looks over, briefly, and...twitches, quite likely unnoticeable to anyone other than Abby or Double should he look over. Were his coffee cup any more full, it would have spilled over.
He's seen that one somewhere before. The Fool's smile twitches in uncertainty, but remains plastered on his face. Hrgh. Distractions.
Retro Packrat arrives from the
Retro Packrat has arrived.
Chest sighs and nods, "It's true, it's true." As Double wanders in, Chest idly adds, "One thing I will say about this place: It gets the most interesting of people showing up. Why, I bet the entertainment value alone is pretty high. Maybe even enough to offset the poor quality of food." Chest seems unaware that he and Glyde are contributing to the entertainment value of Ruby's Diner. "Good God, you ordered a cheeseburger? My word, son, prepare to be waiting for... MINUTES!" Chest sighs and shakes his head, "People today. They don't know how to /work/ for their money. Just figure they can slack off and serve unimaginative food for a zenny here and there. I tell you, it's what's wrong with the world today. Why, in my day, we'd walk to work at 4 AM, and stay there until 10 PM, and walk home again. Through 10 feet of snow, also! Uphill! Both ways!" Chest sighs and blinks, "What what? Offer? Hover-vehicle? News chopper? You're looking for a job, son?"
Noting the twitch of discomfort -- easily -- Abernathy simply rests a steadying hand on the Fool's shoulder. If allowed, anyway. "Fear not them who can kill the body but not the soul," he murmurs, perhaps more to himself than to the Fool. He is keeping a weather eye on Double, however, as he says this -- but is quick to look away, down at Feste. "So. Is this all you've been keeping yourself amused with for the past week?"
Zero has arrived.
Glyde Loath deadpans for a moment -- and is oddly silent. It is the first time that he's stopped talking since he got in here. "Son?" He asks. "Oh, come on. I'm twenty two. Hardly a child, anymore. Despite.....what.....everyone.....thinks." The last four words are uttered with a sort of tense lipped expression. It seems that he gets this alot. "Anyway, indeed. I don't see how this place makes a profit. By God, if I were running things, they'd be done differently. Maybe I should see about buying this place. Call it Glyde's Diner, instead of Ruby's Diner. Yess......and do things just a *BIT* differently. Or, buy the lot next door and open up some competition..." He muses for a second, then nods. "Basically." He states. "I'm offering my services as an information specialist. A reporter, I suppose you'd call it. And with me would come the Glyder, which can be used as an aerial phototography craft. The role that you'd normally use a hover vehicle, or chopper for -- which I'm fairly sure that you don't have." He looks around, and stands then -- brushing himself off smoothly -- and steps towards the vacant chair at Chest's table. "May I?" He asks. "This way, we don't have to shout."
*jingle jingle jingle*
"Zero!"
Ah yes, loved and adored by his people, and within moments of stepping in the door already thwacked upside the head with a menu by good ol' Trish, is Zero. Not in his armor, despite what his desc may say, Zero is in a pair of shorts made out of what used to be some wideleg khaki cargo jeans, and a simple white wife beater which sticks to his form rather generously and making him almost look like the average all american teenage hearthrob, not that he isn't of course. (Of course!) His long blonde mane is tied back in a low ponytail by a simple red band, he must be feeling very Ken Masters-ish today. Does he notice the people here? Not yet. He just heads for his usual table, where his coffee undoubtably is already waiting for him.
Double can't help but shake his head a slight bit at the obviously rudeness of those the offer was made to by the waiter. "Such poor manners," he says to no one in particular as he makes his way now toward Abernathy specifically, completely ignoring the others and the one who just walked in, "Ah, Director so good to meet you finally."
Chest, being aandoid, is quite a bit younger than Glyde. But he looks old. And he has a little yellow beard that just screams mid-life-crisis, so really, he counts as being older in all practical terms. All he needs is a red convertable and a mistress, baby. "I haven't even a clue who 'Ruby' is. Maybe this is a massive chain or something. Might be pretty expensive. Anyway, s-" He'd been about to say son, but changes his wording, "Mr. Loath, it'd be a pleasure to have you aboard. I don't mean to brag, but I'm a pretty damn good judge of character, and I can tell that you're on the up and up. Only ever heard good things about the Loath family anyway. Your father's a great man. Always donating to the poor and stuff... we need more people like that." Oh Hell, lets just throw in the total near-metagaming for this pose. "Not like those Yakuza rat-bastards. Regar-" He's cut off by the 'Zero!' and peers over at the beserker. "Geez. Look at that hair. He looks like a damn hippy. He needs to get shorter hair-cut." He's whispering to Loath so others can't hear, naturally. "Why, in my day..." Chest trails off. "Ahem. Anyway, son, welcome aboard." He nods and lets Glyde sit down, and holds out his hand.
Zero drinks his coffee, reads his paper, looks pretty.
Zero strikes Glyde Loath with his Looking Good attack.
Feste very fortunately goes unnoticed by the Maverick Spymaster -- or...perhaps not. The Fool turns back around to face the counter as Double approaches, despite Abby's comforting words. Yeah, right, easier said than done.
He returns to sipping his coffee quietly, and just listening. Hey, wait up. Hippy? Having not yet seen Zero, Feste smirks. Silly Fool.
Hello, Maverick inbound. The Director glances up in time to catch sight of both Zero entering -- rowr! -- and Double on the approach. He maintains his little smirk, and drops his hand from Feste's shoulder to his side. "Good afternoon -- Double, is it?" He offers Double a slight nod of acknowledgment. "Good to meet you as well. I trust," and here his smirk turns briefly nasty, "you're fully recovered from your 'resurrection'?" Clone! Arr.
Zero calls out from his corner booth, in a mocking tone, "THE DEAD LIVE! THE DEAD LIVE! EEEEEEEEEK!" He then falls into a good round of laughter and sips on his coffee again, taking a moment to try and look cool in case anyone looks his way. He's such a simple creature sometimes.
Glyde Loath nods at Chest
quickly. "Uncle." He corrects. "Not
father. My father went missing in
Zero raises an eyebrow midsip of his coffee as one blue eye slides over to the side to peer at Glyde. He sits there, midpose for a moment, processing said information, and decides to do what any good natured, civil minded, humble samaritan would do. He puts his cup down, slides out of his booth and pulls the band from his hair. Shaking his head to loosen it out and allowing it to fluff out to it's full glory, and ambles right by Glyde and over to the other side of the diner to go take a gander at the jukebox, leaning over just enough to tighten the fabric of his shorts in just that right kind of way. Zero may love the wiminz, but that doesn't mean he ain't an equal opportunity heart breaker.
Chest Waves his hand dismissively, "Whatever. Oh, right. Tragic accident. My condolences." He sounds genuine there. Chest is silent as Glyde lets loose with his life story. It's almost as if it's a recap for the audience watching at home. "GNN Central is in San Angeles. Any good map will have it located. I'm going to be assigning Monitor Moth and Peach to your training, alright? And we can talk later about hooking some cameras up to the Glyder."
Chest totally ignores Zero, because, he's just too wacked out.
[OOC] Abernathy @set here=fruitier_than_apple_basket
Zero strikes Chest with his Looking Good attack.
[OOC] Zero says, "OR ARE YOU?!"
Chest misses Zero with his Outburst attack.
[OOC] Chest curses fate.
[OOC] Zero says, "SEARCH YOUR FEELINGS"
[OOC] Zero says, "YOU KNOW THIS TO BE TRUE"
[OOC] Chest says, "Papa?"
[OOC] Zero says, "CHEST, I AM YOUR HOMOSEXUAL FANTASY"
[OOC] Glyde Loath says, "No, you're mine. :D"
[OOC] Chest says, "Oh, well. That I knew."
[OOC] Zero, too hot for RP.
Feste is not looking at Zero, or even Abernathy. Rather, he is staring at the cup of coffee in his hands. So far, this has all gone horribly wrong. So much for relaxing, ha... and so much for getting any work done. Oh well.
Genuine, indeed! Glyde doesn't notice though. He's too busy admiring the cut of Zero's hair. "Right." He says, without looking away. "I'll....come talk to you. Is tomorrow at Ten O'Clock AM, GMT good for you?" He still hasn't looked away. "The Camera problem will be a bit expensive. I don't want them to interfere with the transformation circuitry. The Glyder can swtich between avian, and humanoid modes you know. Thus, two sets might be good. Have them linked right to the machine's optical sensors. It'd be the easiest way to go about it." He adds, quietly. "Anyway...how long do you figure it'll be before I can actually make it on camera?" As he speaks, Zero rises and begins his posing -- sidling as he does across the young fellow's line of vision. As he does, the color of Glyde's face changes somewhat -- rising to a slightly redder shade than it normally is. He actually reaches out then, and snags the passing waitress. "Hard Alchohol." He says, and she wanders off to get it. When she gives it to him, he takes a shot of it and makes a face. "Ugh. This is positively VILE." He looks up, quickly. "More, Please." His hands are actually trembling. He's flustered, utterly unable to maintain his poise. He adds to Chest. "Um. I might have to go in a minute. I'll see you tomorrow, Okay?"
Double has left.
Chest blinks as Glyde seems... preoccupied. What could it be? Whatever could possibly be more important than CHEST?! Chest peers over and catches a glimpse of Zero's long, beautiful hair. Mmmm. Clearly, the beserker's locks are like a trap that just keeps on trappin'. The GNN Manager takes a sip of his orange juice and polishes off the eggs and toast he was presumably eating all of this time. "I think that'll depend on..." Chest trails off. Damn, what conditioner does that boy use? "What? Oh, yes. That'll depend on Monitor Moth and Peach. Y'know... what they say." Chest blinks and shakes his head, trying to escape from Zero's good looks. It ain't easy. "Right, tomorrow. Stop by the office." Chest stands up, "I'm never coming back here again," He snorts, peering again at Zero's hair. Well... maybe once more... if Zero's around. Chest scooters away. Damn those good looks.
Ballade arrives from the
Ballade has arrived.
Zero slowly goes through the list of 20th Century songs, this is a 20th Century themed diner after all. Every so often shifting his weight and causing his hips to wiggle ever so slightly. He takes one hand and runs it through the length of his hair, stretching it out his entire arm length before letting it cascade back down. Finally a crooked smirk sneaks up on his features as he pops a few zenny into the machine and choses his song, which begins to play a few moments later.
The Song? "Do ya think I'm Sexy?" by Rod Stewart.
Zero then simply ambles his way back across the diner, and back to his table. Flashing a few smiles at the crowd, male and female, before sliding back into his booth and returning to his paper.
Harmony arrives from the
Harmony has arrived.
"If you want my body and you think I'm sexy come on sugar let me know. o/~"
Kalinka arrives from the
Kalinka has arrived.
Ballade pushes open the door to the diner just in time to get hit with Zero's choice of music. His normal calm expression twitches slightly into the tiniest of frowns for a moment. If you have to brag about yourself, you could at least pick something from Opera... in Ballade's opinion. Still, the tiny shift in expression vanishes after a moment. Living with his brothers has taught Ballade to deal with bad music.
He strolls up to the bar, taking a stool not too far from where Zero's table is. "Grape Soda, and a grade 23-7 robotic lubricant, if you please." Given his affiliation, he also puts down the money first. To many RM's have a habit of running out on the check.
Zero looks up, spots Ballade and frowns, "Oh what, too good to sit with your brother?" And it isn't bragging on ones self, it's torturing those of the male lust persuasion.
Abernathy is not tortured by this, for the record. Because, you know, Zero's just eyecandy.
Harmony isn't too far from Ballade in entering, raising her eyebrows at the music floating around the place. Rolling her eyes, she hears Zero's voice, and takes it upon herself to saunter over and flick him in the head. "Probably just too smart." He just asks to be bothered! Snickering a little, she sits by herself a few tables away, probably just looking for a quiet drink and snack.
Zero blinks at the flick, "Wha, hey... ow! You fricken brat, yeah that's right, go to your table over in the corner, you better hope I don't come over there and give you a ten megaton noogie to that thick cranium of yours."
Ballade gets his drinks - one bottle of grape soda, and a canister of lubricant. "I was getting my drinks, first." Picking them up off the counter, he arches an eyebrow at Harmony as he slides into the booth across from Zero.
"Interesting choice of music."
Glyde Loath scarcely seems to notice Chest's departure. This leaves him, for the interest of those who are entering -- sitting at a table on his own, fairly near to that which Zero is seated in. And, he seems somewhat flustered -- fidgeting uneasily in his seat, face a bit redder than nominal. However, he manages to master himself -- fighting his normal calm, refined poise up with an effort. As he sits, he reaches into his pocket -- drawing forth an immaculate rose, brushing the petals under his chin with an absent minded expression visible on him as he listens to the words. Yeah, that always seems to calm him down somewhat. Afterall, Zero might be dang pretty, but Glyde assues himself he's prettier -- Zero just has the whole fame thing going for him. And his damn hair. Oh, well. Glyde goes back to his unabashed watching -- but does not make any introduction. Although, he does mutter a few words to nobody. Instantly, a white-armored birdbot flies in from outside -- perching on the table near to him. "Mirror." He hisses, and the thing produces a small pocket mirror. Using this, Glyde licks his fingertips and tidies up a few strands of hair, before resuming his watching.
Feste isn't looking, although the music creates such a temptation to do so. Hmf. If only that thrice-accursed Double would go away.
Harmony wrinkles her nose, peeking over her shoulder. "Oh right, hot shot. I'd like to see you try without a bloody nose." she quips, turning back around to flip open the menu and cross her legs. Hmm, what does she feel like today..
The door opens once more, and in breezes Kalinka Cossack. She catches the door before the wind catches it to bang open, and she heads inside toward the counter.
Zero shrugs at Ballade and smiles, leaning forward a bit, "I caught someone givin' me the eye, figured I'd give him a bit of a show for #$@#! and giggles. You know how it is." Zero leans back as his smile widens a bit, "So how have you been man, I haven't seen you in a while. Dad replace you with that little plaything of his or something? I ran into Fishface the other day, commented to him that I was surprised you hadn't popped her head off her shoulders by now."
You know...if Retro knew so many potentially dangerous or otherwise ill-famed people were going to be here, he might have thought twice about heading this way. Of course, he didn't, and the fact that Kalinka, a designated 'safe' person to be around' just walked in as well, he decides to pop in, sitting down at a random booth...before he notices both Zero and Ballade nearby, chatting it up. "Oi..." "Sir...Sir, what will you be ordering today...Sir..." "J-j-j-just a gr-r-illed ch-cheese, I suppose...." Obviously, 'Never show them any fear' was never something Retro took to heart.
Ballade leans back, taking a sip from the bottle of grape soda, listening to Zero's questions with his usual calm. "Mmm. You mean Ms. Reah? She an I had a small talk about what I'd do to her if the Doctor were to be.. hurt, or... married. She understood." He leans forward a bit. "She... is not the problem. I was hoping you would be here. I have an odd... request."
He glances over at Zero's shoulder as Kalinka walks in. Interesting, interesting.
Zero raises an eyebrow as his smile curls, "Oh yeah? Lay it on me."
Harmony whistles to herself a little, setting down the menu and ordering a soda and a hamburger. Nothing like a little grease, right? Listening to the other conversations with slight interest, she rests her chin in her palm, eyes wandering around to idley look at all the things on the walls.
Ballade takes a long pull. "Well. You know that recently I've been... a touch odd. Apparently, Punk's programming got downloaded on top of mine during some... freak accident. During that time..." Ballade pauses, and glances around the room. He switches over to a tightbeamed radio message across the table.
<Doctor Wily's acquired a severe drinking problem. Something I can't allow.>
"And since one of the Doctor's you've worked with has beaten the very same problem... well. I was wondering if an... intervention could be arranged."
Glyde Loath catches what Zero says -- and blinks for a moment, seeming to realize that he HAS been oogling. And just like that, his natural air reasserts itself and he ahems -- color rising again, but from embarrasment this time. "I was *NOT* giving you the eye." He says loudly, voice oddly high pitched. Did he just say that? He looks around, somewhat desperatly -- catching sight of Kalinka. Ahah. A beacon in the dark. Something else to focus on. "Ah. Kalinka." He calls. "Join me, if you will. I will behave, I promise."
Kalinka smirks a little bit as she looks around and sees...Zero...Ballade...well, well. She spots Retro and gives him a grin. Harmony also gets a grin...and then, she sees Glyde. And the grin begins to fade, like a cloud covering the sun. (Damn my luck in avoiding this man!) she thinks, paling. What choice does she have? He asked -nicely-, he's not being a jerk, but...but...."*sighs* Hello, Glyde, good evening," she says and strolls over a bit reluctantly to where he's seated.
Zero pauses and just /stares/ at Ballade for a minute. He mulls this over in his mind, before leaning forward, planting an elbow on the table and pointing a finger at Ballade, "So let me get this straight, you want me to bring Crazy Ivan down to knock some sense into the old man? Are you insane? He'd probably try and kill the old bastard before he'd try to help him. Granted, that would be kind of funny to watch... I mean, if yer serious, I can try and pull what strings I've got, but as good of terms as me and the Big C are on, he calls his own shots, and considering he's one of the two guys I can trust to fix me and not screw with my mind anymore than it already has been, I don't want to try and push the envelope any further than I have already."
Retro Packrat waves to Kali a bit hesitantly, though he's glad she's here. A familiar face in a crowd of unfriendlys. Then again, he hasn't quite spotted Abbeh yet, so he's not exactly as alone as he thinks. But hey, there's that girl from the fight. The...the... . o O (Dammit, I need a vocab expansion set someday, when I can afford to get one) Anyways, he gives her a tentative wave as well. He tries to hide his uneasiness at the moment...but he's always been kinda transparent.
Zero sends a radio transmission.
Harmony receives a radio transmission from Zero.
You intercept Zero's transmission to Harmony: How about you make yourself useful and pick your pretty little butt up and grab me a pot of joe from the girls at the counter.
Ballade folds his together, and taps his fingertips together. "Brother... do you really think he'd try that with me in the room? He may hate, but Dr. Pavel Cossack is not an idiot. But all I am asking for now is... sound the idea out. I have a few other things I am going to try first, but if required, I will pull out the 'big guns'." He shrugs slightly, and unlaces his hands to take a long pull from the canister of lubricant, glancing around the crowded diner as he does so.
Harmony smiles and politely waves to Retro, while recieving her soda. Sighing lightly, she takes a sip, tapping her fingernails on the table. Looking over, she notices Glyde annoying Kalinka.. /again/. Poor girl. Blinking, she picks up her tiny pink radio, and.. kind of.. stares at Zero. Oh no he DI'NT.
Harmony sends a radio transmission to Zero.
Zero receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Harmony's transmission to Zero: ..../sure/.
As Double is called away -- mercifully, before they can get into any verbal sparring -- Abernathy gives a shake of his head and leans back from the counter. He's been silent all this while (while temporarily stuck in a timewarp, oh nos!) and so hasn't had much of a chance to notice Glyde's rather amusing predicament, along with Zero's stunting. However, he does note the fact that Glyde has just called Kalinka over ... and so turns his back on the bar, leaning back against it and tucking his hands in his pockets as he does so, gaze fixed on the Cossack youngster and the too-pretty 'Italian Stallion'. " ... Mm," he remarks, breaking the companionable silence between him and Feste.
[Radio: (C) None] Iris transmits, "*The polka-like strains of 'The Chicken Dance' can be heard, faintly.*"
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "..I hate to ask, normally.. but.."
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, in perfect time, the clapclapclapclap.
Zero nods at Ballade and smiles, "Well, I can't knock you for being concerned about pops, and I can't knock you for exhausting every possible route, so I'll do what I can to help, and if we do pull him in, I'll come along too, and we'll try and keep it as civil as possible. Just cuz we've got different geopolitical agendas, doesn't mean we won't try and help someone who's got a problem."
Zero . o O (Besides, if the old man drinks himself to death, I won't have the satisfaction of killing him myself.)
[Radio: (C) None] Bolero transmits, "... Why is the Chicken Dance being played?"
The waitress finally brings Glyde his food then -- a platter of a surprisingly good looking cheeseburger and french fries, with a steaming side of vegetables. Glyde peers at it for a moment, as though he was trying to decide if he can tackle it or not -- but he's still feeling somewhat unsettled from his own public....diversion. How foolish of him. "Hi." He mumbles to Kalinka, looking somewhat grateful that she's here. Oddly, he's looking more human than he nominally does. "Thanks." He says, although it might be unclear what he's thanking her for. Almost absently, he pushes the plate towards her. "Help yourself." He says. "I just can't tackle it, at the moment." Curiously though, he does take hold of a small glass that had been upon the side of the table -- lowering it to the floor away from Kalinka's line of sight. As he does so, she might catch the sudden vapor of hard alcohol. Glyde's been drinking? At the least, he's turned suddenly moody. Either way, he glances over his shoulder towards Abernathy -- and blurts something out. How random. "So, you still think I'm very brave, or very foolish, Director?" He's alluding to the Journal thing.
Zero sends a radio transmission to Harmony.
Harmony receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Zero's transmission to Harmony: Hey, really? Thanks, I appreciate it Repligirl, maybe you ain't so bad after all.
Quint arrives from the
Quint has arrived.
Zero also leans over and notes to Glyde a tad belatedly, "Dude, I can tell when someone is trying to undress me with their eyes, and with how badly you were leering, I'd say you were thinkin' about more than that." The follow up?
Zero wilybrows.
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "Who's playing that, anyhow?"
Ballade arches an eyebrow at Zero. "You and ProtoMan. A pity the code never really took in your case." Yes, he knows Zero well enough to take a guess at what he's thinking. Leaning back, the Elite continues to sip at his drinks and eavesdrop. And then Zero Wilybrows. And Ballade /flinches/. "Don't do that, Zero. You trigger my reflexes."
[Radio: (C) None] Iris transmits, "Me."
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits cheerfully, "Iris, thank you for the distraction. I needed that."
Harmony stands up from her table slowly, forcing a sweet look at Zero while making her way to the counter. He didn't just ask her to 'be useful' and get him /coffee/. Unfortunately he did, and what's she gonna do? 'Pig.' she thinks to herself, reaching over and taking a pot of coffee from the machine, whispering something to one of the waitresses. Though she stays a little longer then it'd normally take to get a pot of coffee, and the other girl giggles and waves her hands around as Harmony says something. "Are you serious?" is all that's audible, and all she does is nod. Walking over, she leans a hand on Zero's table, smiling cutely. "You're coffee, sir."
Holding the pot above his head, she tips it over, coffee slowly spilling out onto Zero's head. "I am not your MAID!" she finishes, slamming the empty pot down on the table. "Next time, get it your god damned self." YEAH, SISTER.
[Radio: (C) None] Iris transmits, "You're quite welcome."
Feste, having by now drained his cup of coffee, softly taps his gloved fingertips on the counter as he /finally/ looks over. Oh, wonderful. No more Maverick makes a happy Feste.
Hm. Is that -- could it be? The Cossack girl? Hm! And that Italian Stallion appears to be giving her a hard time. Sounds like a job for the Fool and the Director! ...or not.
As Glyde calls out to Abernathy, Feste smiles thinly. Now is an opportunity, it would seem. "<Do you always accost young women so, Signor Stallion?>" Feste asks of Glyde Loath...in Italian.
[Radio: (C) None] Bolero transmits, "Hola guapita. How're you doing?"
Zero turns back to Ballade and smiles, "Well you know what they say, like father, like son." Zero then laughs a bit until Harmony approaches and smiles up at her, "Oh well hey cutie, thanks for bringing me my... hey, what are you... Harmony, I'm warning you, don--- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH #$*(&@ #$(*&@#@ R&*(#@ THAT'S #*(&$@#@ #($*&@#(& *&#$(&#(* HOT!!!!!!!!"
Zero then tumbles out of the booth and onto the floor, rolling around and clutching at his head, "Augh you friggan brat, I'm going to pull your arm out of your socket and beat you to death with it like a red headed stepchild! AUGH!"
Kalinka blinkblinks in surprise at the sudden offer from Glyde of food galore! How can she resist? Grinning, she has a seat. Little does he know that she probably likes the offer of the cheeseburger far more than she appreciated the ridiculously expensive diamond necklace he got for her. She has a seat across from him, and begins putting away the cheeseburger. "Mmm, thanks so much!" she says cheerfully. Noticing that Glyde himself is...a little less than cheerful, perhaps...she arches a brow. "Is, ah...is something the matter?" she asks, as she glances over toward the Zero/Harmony scuffle.
Ballade sighs softly, and shakes his head as he pulls his drinks and feet away from the rapidly spreading pool of coffee - just in time to keep them from getting spilled when Harmony slams the pot down.
"Yes, and his way with the women, as well, it seems."
Retro Packrat just...tries to make himself inconspicuous right now. No big movements or outcries. Yeah, he's kinda paranoid in that respect, but can you blame him, with the power that Ballade and Zero collectively hold? However Harmony's little...act seems to catch his attention. "Yeesh...you don't make many friends, do you?" Retro then blinks, slapping his hand over his muzzle. "Um...sorry, I didn't mean to say that, not like that anyways, I mean...oh...oh crap..." Well, so much for 'no big movements or outcries'.
[Radio: (C) None] Iris transmits, "Not so good today. My head is all buzzy. It's like...interference, or something."
Harmony puts her hands on her hips, standing over the fallen berserker. "Oh I'd like to see you do it, you pompous PIG! Asking me to get you coffee, cutie my ass!" she huffs, jamming her heel into his gut before stomping back to her table, a few of the waitresses giggling while getting mops. They must've been waiting for someone to do that.
[Radio: (C) None] Commander Jet Stingray transmits, "If you think /that's/ a distraction, you haven't seen a Jet distraction. I remember this one time like two units of Maverick troops were coming for two of my buds, so I got a boom box and... and... I'm ranting about things I remember. I'm getting old! Need to party like... Right now!" Sound of doors opening as well as running. "Must find party quickly..."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "No, I wanted to hear!"
Zero oofs at the kick and smiles, "And you're alot cuter from down here, babycakes! Mmph... owie..."
Zero, always making a bad situation worse.
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "Nice. I'm gagging this channel, I have business to attend to."
Harmony turns around, almost to her table, blue eyes piercing. "I.. I.. OOOHH!" she throws her hands in the air, giving up and sitting back down in a tizzy.
Glyde Loath twitches slightly at Zero's words. It's visible as a momentary tensing of the muscles beneath his right eye. His 'poise' seems set in concrete now, except for his voice -- which almost seems to squeak out, at zero. "WasNot." He mumbles. As Harmony does her thing then -- he actually seems to be relived -- the corners of his mouth inching upwards in a smile of sorts. As Zero twitches on the floor, his face is almost transfixed -- a happy sort of look blossoming. Oh, Yes. He might have looked the fool, but now the other is no better. Glyde feels better now, yes. He doesn't really reply much to Kalinka, instead reaching out to snag a french fry from the plate between his black-gloved finger and thumb. "Him." He says in a harsh whisper, nodding towards Zero. "It's a long story. I'll tell you later, if you like. Anyway, don't worry about thanking me. I'm just glad someone I know is here." And then, Feste speaks to him in his native tounge -- which actually makes him start in surprise -- very nearly falling out of his chair. << Why... >> He says. << I had no idea that you spoke the fair language.. I'd never have guessed. >> This is in Itallian, of course. << And today is not my lucky day, it would seem. Kalinka interests me, yes. But however, at the moment, she is the closest thing I have to a friend here. I fear, I am terribly vexed. My great dignity has been terribly affronted. >>
Of course, Kalinka would hear her name -- but unless she speaks itallian, the rest is a blurb.
[Radio: (C) None] Commander Jet Stingray skids to a stop. "Oh. Well, I played a techno remix of Bach 5th and went crazy go nuts with my Hunter Mines until reforcements came. I came out of it with one arm, which let me win a couple of bets since no one thought I would come out with any limbs."
Ballade shakes his head slightly. "At least she didn't do with the coffee what Twila did with Wily's coffee." He takes another sip of his soda, before offering Zero a hand up.
"More inclined toward the latter," Abernathy murmurs, speaking almost in time with Feste. He does not, however, know Italian, so no eavesdropping for him on any conversation the Fool might be having with the brat. Silly Abernathy, not bothering to learn any romance languages.
He does smile briefly at the image of Harmony dousing Zero's desire in coffee, as seen over Glyde's shoulder -- then shifts his attention to Kalinka, watching her tuck into the food. << "Miss Cossack, do you need any help with this man?" >> he calls, in Russian. How convenient, hm?
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony laughs. "Ohhh, man.. you guys."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "I wouldn't've bet."
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "I just spilled hot coffee /all over/ Zero, you should've seen it."
[Radio: (C) None] Iris transmits, "...Why?"
Retro Packrat just continues to scratch his head a the whole thing, while trying to be as 'normal' as possible. Of course, he does finally see the Director, giving a short wave an a weak smile, before...yay, the grilled cheese arrives!! "Whew...something else to focus on..."
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "He told me to scoot my 'cute butt' over and get him coffee so I can 'be useful'. Jerkfacepig."
Zero slowly picks himself up and frowns, "Hey, at least I'm young, unlike pops, although I guess that probably makes my apparent streak of failures that much more /worse/ but who's counting." Zero then turns to smile at Harmony's reaction and says, "Zero one, you nadda. Don't hate the playah baby, hate the game." Zero then blinks at the sudden influx of foreign languages in the room, "Can't you people just speak english? Sheesh, the UN made it the standard language of the world a while ago, and yeah I know you humans are all big on your...," Zero holds up his hands and curls his fingers along with his next words, "'culture' and 'heritage' but sheesh, it ain't like some of us don't understand it all the same anyway. Always tryin' to be sneaky and deceitful, sometimes I kinda wonder if maybe Sigma had the right idea." After dispensing his bit of bile, mostly due to the afterwash of the realization that what little of his dignity and pride has been further dimminished by that accursed Replibrat once more.
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "Ok, maybe not."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "How rude."
Zero sits back down, sips his coffee, looks up at Ballade, "That should get their panties in a suitable knot."
[Radio: (C) None] Commander Jet Stingray perks up. "Zero! You saw Zero? Here just give me a second and I'll head over there. Now, should I bring the two plasma pistols or just the good old sniper cannon? Decisions, decisions. He deserves more for attacking certain people that I know of. Oh if Alia isn't listening in on our channels again, we should let the Hunters know we found him. After I take a few shots at him of course."
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "Jet, wait, yikes!"
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "He's been around, it's no secret, they don't even care he's gone."
[Radio] Transmission detected: :says a bit sarcastically ... ... another ... morning at ... Plaza." ... grumbling ... little.
Kalinka smirks a little bit, as Glyde lapses into Italian. Now, she has some idea of how others feel when she speaks in Russian to her father. She has fries in her mouth when Abby calls over to her. "Mmfle," she says at first, before taking a big drink. "<< He's not a problem, >>" she explains to Abernathy in Russian. "<< I'll let you know if he becomes one, though. >>"
[Radio: (C) None] Alia transmits, "I -am- listening, and we -do- care."
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony transmits, "You don't care enough to wear underwear when it counts, do you honey?"
Ballade finishes up his drinks, tossing the empties across the room into the trashbin with a clatter. "Mmm. You do have a lot of the Doctor in you. Probably why you don't get along very well." He offers a few napkins to Zero. "You're dripping."
[Radio: (C) None] Option Yammark transmits, "...Uh. Um. Er. Sergeant-Major?"
[Radio: (C) None] Spin Cougar transmits, "...... Harmony ..... we SO did not need to hear that."
Harmony grumbles. "Men and their panties.." Still annoyed, her hamburger arrives. "Almost lost my appetite.." she sighs, taking a bite out of it.
[Radio: (C) None] Crescent Grizzly transmits, "'armonay. Mand' yer' manners."
Retro Packrat just sighs at the languages himself. "Why did I waste all that money on a Spanish pack, rather than something useful, like Japanese, or Russian...." Oh well, munch munch munch...though he does send out a couple of tightbeams, just out of curiousity and worry.
[Radio: (C) None] Sgt. Major Harmony sighs a little, but it sounds like she's smiling. "Yessir.."
The languages flying around here, goodness.
Feste gives Glyde a toothy grin, hopping off his stool to edge closer -- politely. < "I am a man of many talents, Signor Stallion. And vexed? I am terribly sorry, sir. How has your dignity been affronted?" >
Zero's comment goes politely unnoticed. Hah. Feste takes a moment to smile at Kalinka, as if he's doing her some sort of service by distracting Glyde. Well, in his mind, he is...
Retro Packrat sends a radio transmission.
Kalinka receives a radio transmission from Retro Packrat.
You intercept Retro Packrat's transmission to Kalinka: You ok, over there, Miss Kalinka? That strange guy bothering you?
Kalinka sends a radio transmission.
Retro Packrat receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Kalinka's transmission to Retro Packrat: No, he is actually very nice, but...maybe too nice, you know? I have not really had time to get to know him very much.
Frequency c is now gagged.
Retro Packrat sends a radio transmission.
Kalinka receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Retro Packrat's transmission to Kalinka: Alright...he just kinda weirds me out a bit, though. Hopefully, he doesn't try anything...
Zero takes them with a sigh, "Yeah, thanks for reminding me. On both counts." He then begins to dry himself off, "You know, I'm sure I'd be a lot more popular if I was a nicer guy, but then no one would be raising the important points, like the whole language thing, look how they just ignore me, and go right back to their little covert conversations. If people would grow some lugnuts and just say what they've got to say, I think the world would be a much better place. Instead of everyone pussyfootin' around about their feelin's on others. If I don't like somebody, I tell 'em. But eh, maybe that's just me."
Ballade shrugs a bit. "I can understand what they're saying." He taps the side of his skull. "Android code. Takes datachip downloads suprisingly well." He shrugs a bit. "The Doctor decided it might be a good idea." He spreads his hands slightly. "As for feelings... well, I have my precise views on how to make the world a better place. But we disagree there."
Harmony is quiet, because she's still seething. Shhh.
Kalinka scarfs down the last of the cheeseburger, then begins working on the fries rather ravenously.
To one who is watching Glyde's face, that little twitch is visible again. << Glyde. Not Stallion. I will not be mocked. >> He once again attempts to master himself, with some hardly slight difficulty -- reaching down to the floor and drawing forth that noxious cup of alchohol-smelling liquid, tipping it back to his lips and taking a serious gulp from it -- wincing visibly, and turning his face away -- putting the noxious gunk down on hte table. "Eyyech." He says, in English -- and then takes another drink from it, somewhat more thoughtfully -- putting it back down and then leaning against his chair. The waitress approaches -- and Glyde flips a credit stick at her without comment, and she retreats with it, to ring in Glyde-Come-Kalinka's meal, and his drink. "Actually.." He says aloud, to Zero. "Itallian is the tongue of the romantics and the poets. Far more so than french ever was. It is a masterful language. Words simply flow better, and more proper. I am just pleased to have someone to converse in my native tongue with." Or, is he? Either way, he speaks to Feste again. << I do not take kindly to being so embarrased in public, even if it is my own doing. >> He leaves it at that, reaching out to snatch another fry from Kalinka's plate. "I hope you don't mind." He says. "Either way, is the food to your taste? Would you care for anything else?"
Retro Packrat just continues to let the blowhards take the front stage, while he finishes off his grilled cheese slowly, throwing out a few more tightbeams for good measure.
Retro Packrat sends a radio transmission to Harmony.
Harmony receives a radio transmission from Retro Packrat.
You intercept Retro Packrat's transmission to Harmony: Err...you ok there?
Abernathy offers Kalinka a fraction of a nod for her response, going back to lounging against the bar and looking pretty. It's what he does best, after all; any claims that he's got his job for another reason are purely specious. (ha) He does take a moment, though, to glance over at Zero -- and smile sweetly, catching the blond berzerker's comments easily. "We can't all be savage little bastards of reploids and answer affronts with the points of our swords, Zero," he remarks idly. Then he pauses, and glances over at Glyde, arching a single white brow. " ... and I do believe adding anything to what he just said would do it /serious/ disservice." You could cut the sarcasm with a knife, especially as he glances back at Zero and gives him a prim little smile.
Harmony sends a radio transmission to Retro Packrat.
Retro Packrat receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Harmony's transmission to Retro Packrat: Yeah.. just.. a little mad, Zero can be a pig sometimes.
Kalinka sends a radio transmission to Abernathy.
Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Kalinka.
You intercept Kalinka's transmission to Abernathy: << I'll have to show you the DIAMOND NECKLACE this guy gave me...it's unreal. He won't let me give it back. I'll tell you all about it later. >>
Retro Packrat sends a radio transmission to Harmony.
Harmony receives a radio transmission from Retro Packrat.
You intercept Retro Packrat's transmission to Harmony: I hope all the Hunters aren't like that. I mean, even with that whole scary past of his, I kinda expected him to be...I dunno...more heroic or something.
Abernathy's smile doesn't falter any, though he does suddenly look somewhat distracted -- glancing down and murmuring something into his radio.
Zero smirks and nods as he sips his coffee, "True enough. If you ask me..." he pauses as Glyde addresses him and turns to the Loathe prettyboy and replies, "Anyone who has to use a different language to be romantic, lacks the ability to be romantic naturally. I don't need some fancy flowery language to accurately convey my love for someone else. Most of the time, I can do it with a simple look, or a few simple words, no matter what language. So don't fill me with that crap that you're more studly because you speak some other language." Zero then turns to Abbernathy and smiles, "I ain't quite a reploid, director, and I don't always solve all my problems with my sword, sometimes I use my fists, or my feet, or just a nice good verbal lashing, like the one I'm going to give the Replibrat later once she's calmed down and thinks she's safe again."
Harmony sends a radio transmission.
Retro Packrat receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Harmony's transmission to Retro Packrat: Oh, they're not all like that. Zero's just got some of Wily's lecherous programming, that's all.
Kalinka smiles graciously at Glyde. "Oh, it was very good, thank you. I really like cheeseburgers," she admits. "By the way...do not let Zero upset you. He just says what he is thinking. Sometimes it is nice. A lot of the time, it is not. And so it goes." She finishes up the fries, watching Glyde curiously. There's so much she -doesn't- know about this guy...
Harmony snorts quietly from her table, rolling her eyes. "Idiot." is all she gives him.
Zero corrects, "That's /Mister/ Idiot to you, sweetheart."
Abernathy sends a radio transmission.
Kalinka receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Kalinka: << "Interesting. And worrying. Remember that Interpol is at your service, if need be, Ms. Cossack. Tell me if he continues this behavior." >>
Feste continues ignoring Zero. Hahaha.
< "Oh! I beg your pardon, signor. I merely missed your prior introduction, and was left with only your self-appointed epithet to call you by," > Feste responds, apologetic but still casual. Heh. He's drinking, too, how amusing. The Fool peers at Zero for all of three seconds as Glyde addresses him, utterly uninterested in the blonde berserker. 'Sides. Abby is dealing with him.
But ah, he's being spoken at again. "I am sorry you feel that way," he says in English, perhaps for Kalinka's benefit, sounding decidedly amused.
Jet Stingray arrives from the
Jet Stingray has arrived.
Harmony grumbles, finishing her hamburger. Rassafrickinrsiga..
Retro Packrat sends a radio transmission to Harmony.
Harmony receives a radio transmission from Retro Packrat.
You intercept Retro Packrat's transmission to Harmony: ........*audible shudder* That idea scares me...though I guess it...does kinda show.
Ballade smiles thinly at Zero, and then flinches again. "Zero. You're resemblence to the Doctor is... getting uncannily similar in some ways. I think it would be best if I... stepped outside. I keep having to suppress the urge to treat you as the Doctor. Which would do no one any good." He climbs to his feet, flexing his hands slightly. "Plus, I think I still have a few of Punk's... baser impulses."
Kalinka glances over at Feste, and winks. Not a come-hither wink...it's more the 'aside' wink that one actor would give another, oddly enough.
Harmony sends a radio transmission.
Zero receives a radio transmission.
You intercept Harmony's transmission to Zero: You better watch yourself, I'm not afraid to rough you up anymore than I already have. Jerk.
Abernathy looks up from commenting on something into his radio -- and offers Zero a gracious nod, and that same smile, just gone much more ironic. "Point taken. And don't be so harsh with the sergeant major; she's still learning her way. Come off a difficult bout with a crush, as I remember." He offers Harmony a little nod, as well, then glances at Zero's -- companion. That smile damps, gone to just a hint of amusement, as the Director looks over Ballade. Hm.
Glyde Loath waves his black-leather gloved hand at Zero, with a dismissive sort of gestures. << Why are all of the cute ones so foolish.. >> He mumbles to himself, tossing his head back to clear his eyes of a few whisps of blonde hair that had dangled downwards in front of his right eye. "I agree with you in the sense that it is not actually required, but I disagree with you in the sense that it is certianly much more interesting. Command of language is important, if you wish to truly express yourself." He falls silent for a moment then, finishing the rest of his glass with a solid gulp. "I will no doubt recover.." He says, to Feste, absently. "I simply....I don't know." He slumps somewhat in his chair. "Yo." He says, to the birdbot that is crouching by his feet. "Go tell that waitress that I want another of these." He gestures at the glass. "And to ring it up on the same card." The bird-thing squawks at Kalinka, and Glyde blinks. "Oh. How nice." He says, without humor -- and then smiles. "Unit #332-A is asking you if you want anything else." He explains. "Whilst he's up, and about to go get it."
Chill Snowcat arrives from the
Chill Snowcat has arrived.
Kalinka chuckles. "Hm...well that is quite kind..." She says to #332-A, "I should like a strawberry shake, please." She nods graciously to Glyde. "And thank you, sir."
Hard Man arrives from the
Hard Man has arrived.
Zero smirks at Ballade, "No no, stay, I'm about to leave anyway. I think I'm through being obnoxious for the day, but eh, these kids should expect it if they're gonna wander in to my diner." Zero winks and rises himself, "Besides, none of these people will ever even consider giving me a chance, that's why I act the way I do. Kali does, and that's why I treat her with respect, but these other people? The people who only know the Zero on TV, and the Zero in the tabloids, they think they know me, but they don't, and they don't wanna know me. Even the Repligirl thinks she's written the book on all things Z, and I could fit the things she don't know about me inside the grand fricken canyon. So let them have their low opinions of me, and their hatred for me, or their preconceived notions." Zero then smiles at Ballade and says, "And I will admit, that is one thing I do share with father, both of us have had our good qualities ingored and our bad qualities harped on so much that it's almost as if it's impossible to be anything but what they say we are. Maybe I always will be, who knows. All I know is that I wake up everyday, from the same nightmare I have every night, and despite the urges, and the temptations, I try to do what's right, and I speak my mind freely because it's my given right as a sentient person to express myself. I just wish people would realize all my grandstanding was just comical ramblings, rather than serious narcissism. They're the ones who put me up on the pedestal, not me." Zero shrugs at his brother and says, "But, either way, I'll see you. Good luck with the old man."
"Whistle while you work..." *whistling noices inserted here* "Whistle while you work...."
Singing a happy tune and carrying a rather /large/ plasma cannon slung over his shoulder, the Stingray of Justice passes by many of the windows of the Diner, making his way toward the entrance. Behind him is some nameless Repliforce gumbie, humanoid and just has the numbers '834232' on his right brestplate. He doesn't know that Ballade is here, but he heard Zero was here... And that's the important thing!
Zero raises an eyebrow as he bumps into Jet on his way in, "Hey wat.... oh ho ho, /you/."
Feste /snrks/ at Glyde's comment -- impolite of him, but he does it nonetheless. And oh look. It's one of those bird-things. Feh.
As Kalinka winks at him, Feste quirks an eyebrow, almost incredulous. How funny! The Fool responds with a full smile, almost a laugh. And then back to Glyde, with fairly clearly mocked concern. "I should certainly hope so, Signor Glyde. It would be a pity if you could not, ah, do your part for the GNN."
Zero grins, "If you're hear to be the hero for Princess Prettyface, you're too late, I'm already leavin'."
Ballade waves a hand at Zero. "As you wish." He listens to the minor rant with an expression that says 'how interesting, I'm listening'. One might imagine he practices it a lot. "Mm. Don't forget to speak to the Russian for me."
Zero nods at Ballade on his way out, waving a hand, "I'll do what I can, no promises tho."
The feline that isn't chill...or at least doesn't look like Chill pads in. A slight smile on his face as he strolls in and finds a spot to sit by himself.
Chill Snowcat
Lenya Light....usually known as Chill Snowcat has undergone a transformation of sorts. He is a feline reploid that stalks apon four feet. His body is a soft violet at the joints with silver-gray fur being the dominant feature. Spots and rosettes cover most of his frame, dark gray in some areas darkening to black. Pure white settles below his nose and across his chest. A clear violet visor covers his large silver eyes. Whiskers twitch with curiousity. On his shoulders are twin mounted cannon weapons with a large opening on each side in front. These are colored deep violet also and appear to be able to shoot an assortment of weapons. The word 'RESCUE' with a white cross are stenciled in reflective white on the shoulder weapons. His tail is a strange mis of what appears to be fur and a blaster type end on the tip. Sharp retractable claws decorate his large front and hind paws.
Shark Man arrives from the
Shark Man has arrived.
Jet Stingray points to his gun. "But... But... I have an excuse to shoot you! You can't just leave before I shoot you! ...Fine, I'll shoot you later," he says with a tone like a disheartened boy who is told by his parents that there isn't going to be Christmas this year.
Abernathy offers Zero a mildly sardonic salute as the berserker heads out, but as the Director's attention is fixed on Ballade, this rather weakens the gesture. A moment passes, and the Director gives a slight shake of his head -- glancing away from the violet Elite and returning his attention to the conversation near at hand. To wit: Feste mocking Glyde for Kalinka's sake. It's so cute!
Ballade actually glances in the Director's direction just mere instants after Abernathy redirects his attention to the interplay between Glyde, Kalinka and Feste. If Feste weren't already needling Glyde, Ballade might just have stepped in. After all - improving relations with the Russian may be important in the near future.
The Birdbot squawks absently at Kalinka, and then lifts off it's feet and hop-flaps over to the counter where it begins to harass the waitress -- scribbling down what it wants on a pad of paper. She peers at it derisively, until it squarks and points a wing at Kalinka and Glyde. She nods then, rings it all in -- and offers the thing the Milkshake in one hand, and Glyde's reciept in the other. It pauses, and gives a birdy sort of sigh -- and takes hold of the milkshake and reciept -- fluttering over to the table and handind it off to Kalinka -- rubbing up against her leg a bit in an almost kittenish manner, chirp-churring as it does so, then throwing the reciept at Glyde with distaste, making a not-too-friendly squawk before fluttering away out the window. Glyde stares after it, and just mumbles to himself -- rapping fingertips against the table. "Damn Robots." He mutters. He looks back up to Feste, then. "Oh, I will. And well at that." He grunts. "Don't you worry. I'm just....having a bad day today. Yes."
Kalinka grins affectionately at the Birdbot, giving it a scritchscritch on the head if it so allows. "Oh boy, strawberry is my favorite! Thank you," she says. She glances over at Ballade, and briefly wonders why he's looking over. She doesn't like that. She looks back over toward Feste and Abernathy so she doesn't have to look over at him. "Why are you having a bad day?" she asks Glyde pointedly. Does she notice Jet and the heavy ordinance? Of course, she couldn't miss that. But she figures that has something to do with Zero or Harmony or -both-, so she tries not to stare. It isn't polite, anyhoe.
Harmony is pretending Jet isn't there. Nope, no stingray with a big gun.. uh-uh.
Drifter Leopard the feline formerly known as Chill waits patiently for the waitress to take his order also. He tilts his head, listening to the others. His curiousity barely in check.
Unobtrusively, the door opens yet again, admitting a handful of young fellows of mixed species. Most look human, from Quint in his not quite disguise, a blind-seeming young reploid with cat ears, silvery hair and purple malar stripes, to a young woman of Polynesian descent; some distinctly not so. There's a rather obvious squidlike reploid in the lot, and a floating glass ball with blinking lights inside that just -might- be some other form of reploid or android. The entire pack locates themselves at one of the larger booths, immediately delving into an indepth conversation about model hovercars and just which brand is *really* the best.
Retro Packrat just...kinda sits there, finishing his food. Now that he doesn't really have much to be scared of...he's feeling kinda bored and lonely.
Ballade glances over at the door and just... blinks.
.oO (What in the...)
Ballade just... stares for a moment. Then shakes his head. "Well, at least he's not fondling the pogo stick again..."
[OOC] Quint says, "I was not -fondling- Saku. I was *polishing* him. O_O"
[OOC] Feste says, "Quint. The first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem."
[OOC] Quint says, "I don't have a problem! C_C"
[OOC] Ballade says, "You /sleep/ with the pogo stick. That's just wrong."
[OOC] Quint says, "No it isn't! >_<"
Jet Stingray merely puts his cannon behind him, a large
belt of metal and plastic the only way the MASSIVE gun can be held up.
"Zero left... Darn it, who can I shoot now?" Then he sees him...
Ballade! .oO(Ooooh, now if only I can get him
out of the
"I am not worried, sir, for I have faith in you," says Feste, a bit less mocking this time. Does he actually care? ...maybe. Probably not. "I pray you shall have many better days, Signor Loath" -- aha! So he really did catch Glyde's name! -- "in the future. But I am afraid I must depart, and leave you to your lady friend." A fairly obvious smile at Kalinka. "Good day, sir."
With that, he wanders off back in the direction he came from, and... out the door, past the decidedly weird lot of...people, and past the Stingray of Overlarge Weaponry -- and all without so much as a goodbye to Abernathy. Aw.
Shark Man enters the
Shark Man has left.
[OOC] Abernathy sadfaces at Feste. ._.
[OOC] Abernathy says, "You're going to regret that when I'm DEAD. ._."
[OOC] Feste says, "...well, yes, but..."
[OOC] Feste ._. I'll make up for it later. ;)
[OOC] Abernathy dies. Passive-aggressive emotional abuse SAVES THE DAY AGAIN.
[OOC] Feste fistshakes.
Before it goes out the door, perhaps zipping by the entering party, the small avian robot churrs at Kalinka in a happy manner -- showing of a surprising slew of emotions. Cute little thing -- when it's not lobbing grenades at those who threaten it's master, that is. Either way, Glyde shrugs slightly. "Oh, the usual." He says. "Public Embarrasment. People mocking me. Don't worry. I get it all the time." The line is delivered with a slight amount of bitterness. "Anyway, I think I should probably take my leave soon. I'm having trouble maintaining myself, and I don't want to make a scene. Any more than I already have." Odd. He seems almost at the point of fighting sniffles. Does his PR mean that much to him? He does stretch though, looking towards Feste. "Indeed. I apologize if I mistook you." << Fare thee well. >>
Ballade also notices the Stingray of Compensating for Something. And sighs softly when Jet notices him. Not again. Just once, Ballade would like to have some time off. Maybe he'll go away.
Glyde Loath receives a radio transmission.
[Radio] You send Glyde Loath a direct message: "*slightly amused* Peace be with you, sir."
Kalinka stares at Feste. STARES.She watches him leave. Then, she very slowly turns back toward Glyde. (Loath, now where have I heard that name before...? What did that guy know that I need to know??) she thinks. Aloud, she tells Glyde... "Very well, then, but...thank you for the dinner, anyhow!"
Abernathy leans back against the bar a little more, watching the exchange silently. It should prove -- useful. Though he does look after Feste as the Fool leaves, a twitch of something definitely not a smile on his lips. But he says nothing, merely returning his attention to the decidedly sniffly Glyde and Kalinka. He is momentarily distracted by Quint's entourage -- but no more than momentarily.