Logfile from M3

Andruw Nisse's Apartment <ANA>(#4457Ten)

Andruw Nisse's apartment is ill taken care of, but due to its little usage, it stays in good shape. It's outfitted with a small kitchen, living room, bathroom, and single bedroom. Cozy little place, really, with a window looking out on Hyde Park.

Cozy, really, if not for the books scattered EVERYWHERE. Now we know what this man does in his spare time. Other than that, it's relatively spotless, although the furniture looks decidedly on the old side. He could use some decorative advice, though...

Obvious exits:

Out <O> leads to London - Historical District.

Abernathy has arrived.

Contrary to popular belief, Abernathy has not actually been stealing (much of) Feste's tea. In fact, he's only made off with two bags so far! One for breakfast the other morning ... and one right now, as he's apparently gone through the trouble of sneaking back into the apartment expressly to steal tea. (Boy's got problems.)

Either way, the fact remains that he has stolen a bag of tea and taken a mug (on loan), and is currently seated on Feste's couch, drinking that stolen tea in silence.

The door opens, and rather quickly, too.

"Why do you do this, Andruw?" comes Andruw-Feste's voice, significantly higher and whinier than normal. He's doing his best imitation of certain people. "Why don't you do that, Andruw?" The door slams. "Why aren't you at Oxford, Andruw?" Gradually gaining volume, and returning to his normal tone of voice. "Why didn't you go to *business school*, Andruw?! Didn't you ever listen to your moth--"

Of course, it's then he spots Abernathy, and abruptly quits his tirade, very much startled. *blink* Uhrh. Andruw-Feste stands just inside his flat, blinking, for all of about fifteen seconds before he's able to put together an adequate response.

"Now, I /know/ you were gone when I left..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "WAAAAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAHAHAHHA!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "At last! Its finished!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "... Now doctor, don't jinx it, lest one of your kids destroys it."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "HA! ...er... wait. What's finished, Dad?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Mmm? Not a girl I hope."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Oh, shut up, Rigger."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "My chicken pot pie!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Awww, donchu wuv me anymore, Tengie?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man sniffs. "As if*zh*" Pause... "But what h-have you been working on f-father?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Depends. What are you going to give me if I say yes?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "... A chicken.. pot.. ... you're cackling over -that-?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Ahh...Rigger. I love your sweet sweet...nevermind."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "If you had to wait for those things to cook, you'd be near insane too."

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "I have a feeling I'm going to regret having kept this channel on..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man giggles faintly. "I n-need to ask if Shade's still hungry for y-=you.... hmm."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "I'll do my best to make sure you do."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "I find it valuable as a psychological analyist tool myself."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man, impatiently: "Well, c'mon, Rigger! What'm I gonna get if I say yes?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "And nothing will make one value his own sanity then looking at the global broadband and saying "I'm not as bad as""

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man abruptly transmits. "NOIONLYTHERAPISTIKILL!*cough* err, I mean...

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger yawns loudly, "Mmm, I should probably get out of bed sometime today." Hmms? "Oh. Sorry. I forgot you spoke to me. Ummm... A nose-bootie so you won't get icicles on it in winter as you fly?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "oh."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Then I still hate you."

The opening door and surprisingly whiny voice of Andruw-Feste alert Abby to the fact he is shortly to be discovered. However, typical of him, he just continues sipping at his stolen tea and gazing off at nothing. He doesn't even bother to look at the door.

It's only when the other man actually *addresses* him that he looks up, offering Andruw-Feste a pleasant and altogether feline smile, before going back to his tea. You think he'd explain all his secrets?

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat snickers.

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "That's fine. Roll's cookies love me. And I love them, very *nibble* very *Mmm* much. *gulp*"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "... Roll made cookies? ... When?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Oooh, cookies."

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "Cookies?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man sniffs. "Hmph." Grumbles. "Bet I I can make better..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Well, in order to prove that, I'm going to need some of Roll's cookies."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "And some of yours, Junk."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger lipsmacks. "Sorry. I don't give cookies to people who hate me."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Well, fine!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "I don't hate you."

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "His cookies probably have bolts and rusty metal in them."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "...Aaand?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Guts Man transmits, "You leave Roll's cookies out of this!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man hmms. "Th-that is a valid thing. I wonder fi I I could get some cookies from Roll without storming Hunter Headquarters..."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "Or are you just egging him on?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "And what?! What else do you want me to say?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "You know. o/~"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "No I don't."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "She'd probably send you some if you asked, Junk. But I think they keep getting confiscated in the mail when she does that."

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass crunches on something. "Confiscated, imagine that. Shocking. The postal service is so cruel."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man mutters inaudibly.

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man hmms. "I s-see. Maybe I could come over to one of of your bases, but then you bastartd Hunters have a b-bad habit of e-ringing us on sight. Itchy t-trigger fingers and all th.that..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "Can you really blame them?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "If you gave your word, I may be inclined to trust... I'd deliver them, but only if Roll wanted to make them."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "Yes, yes actually I I can. And do."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Mm. Cook. I should cook. I haven't cooked in ages. At least not without a blow torch."

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "Well then we'll see, Junk."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "What are you gonna cook?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "And I would g-give my word, andand and use a non combat body if we w=-were to meet..."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "Jeez, Rigger, you're making me hungry with all this talk.."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Oh, just go get the damn cookies already."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "I w-was thinking of some d-double fudge chocolate hazlenut cookies with a a charamel swirl. A a bit rich, but if h-handled with care they're rather flavorful."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Grandpa's award winning oyster stew. Haven't made that since... Couple of Christmas' ago. And banana bread. With carmelized walnuts."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "Sorry. Kinda hungry myself."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Ooh."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Why walnuts? Don't those, like, totally not go with seafood?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "They go with the bread."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Oh."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "My bad."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Like banana nut bread."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "... Well if you do cook, please tell me then."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "Oh. and I DO w-wear gloves.... *mutters*"

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "A'ight."

[Radio: (F) Public] Andrew Creeves transmits, "Robot Masters talking about cooking. Now that's unusual."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Not really."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man seems almost offended. "Wh-what, we're not allowed to to have hobbies?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Andrew Creeves transmits, "Well, sure you can have a hobby. I just didn't realize you guys ate that much to talk about fine foods."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Pfft."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Who are *you*, anyway?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "I don't eat... ...food."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger croons almost happily, "Shadey-poo!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Well, that's 'cause you're dumb. And a philistine."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "GAH! ...Thats disturbing, Slayer..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "This pot pie is really good. *sounds of meowing* Mambo! Get out of that! Bad kitty, thats my pot pie!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits testily. "Ahh. One st-straight from the the rumor mills. Mindless machines don't eat /food/... they just plug themselves into the wall with a cord, right?

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Sucked much lately?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Guts Man transmits, "Want me to hit the kitty?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "No thank you Guts."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Most human food is fairly disgusting to be honest..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Guts Man transmits, "I got a huge cat whacking stick right here."

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "That's a matter of opinion, of course."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Your confections and baked crackers are quite delicious, but...burnt meat? Bleech."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man growls. "The /Bug./ ...you are, s-sadly, not one to talk bug.

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Oh... I've sucked on a few necks, my dear... Pity your's hasn't been one of them... ...I'm sure you'd enjoy it."

Cue more blinking, and a confused Andruw mightily quirking an eyebrow. (yes. mightily.) The nordmann walks over to the couch, very suspicious. HEY. That's HIS cup... He moves to the back of it, looming over Abby's shoulder and sniffing lightly. HEY! That's HIS chai! Andruw narrows his eyes and leeeeans in, so his mouth is quite near Abernathy's ear.

"You know, I *did* offer you some of that. You didn't have to sneak in and STEAL IT."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Please, you humans insist on lighting everything you eat on fire first."

[Radio: (F) Public] Andrew Creeves transmits, "Ahh, Just call me Andy for now. Don't mind me, I was just curious."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Okay, whatever."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Dude, Shade."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "/Sushi/."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "I prefer sucking face to sucking blood, thanks."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "You actually g-go by ANDY?" Muffled laughter. "Andy..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Yes, Tengu? ...Sushi? ...Sorry. Blood and Mech Fluid for me."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "He's Bulemic. Can't keep real food down."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "I generally prefer to avoid the "sucking" all together, only sucking that occurs in my line of work is either a massive vacuum or a spider."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste cannot help but laugh at Rigger.

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man transmits, "Th=-that's odd. Looks like s-something you and I have in in common Tengu."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Hello, sailors!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Are you offering a kiss, Rigger? ...I shall have to take that up one day..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Yes, sushi."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man, with faux enthusiasm: "Oh boy, Junk Man! Let's go to Tetsuo's and grab a bite! Together!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man druyly. "N-nice try Tengu. I'm n-not falling for it..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Can me and Mr. Fluffums come?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Awww."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Junk Man, can I ask your opinion on something?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "File your teeth first and maybe. But I've had better offers."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Why would Wily intentionally equip one of his creations with a speech impediment?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Personal amusement."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Most speech impediments are of a psychological nature."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "The motivation behind it eludes me. Personal amusement you say? Hrm..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Why ask why, try Wily Dry, in stores Tuesday."

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Wily Dry. In color."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "What's Wily Dry, Daddy?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Oh... and you are right, perhaps, Slayer... I cannot keep real food down. Where others were created to be able to assimilate real food into power conversion systems... myself... ...I did not have such a modification. Some tastes I don't mind on the tongue... but not many."

[Radio: (F) Public] Andrew Creeves transmits, "Well, when you're making about 80 individual robots, it would be kind of boring to make them all the same, wouldn't it?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Depends on the functions for which they were created."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "I made a hat out of sausage once."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Its a new type of Wily Beer, the most popular beer on the market today."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "In Mr. Wily's case the aim seems to be warfare. I wouldn't see much reason to enable war robots with a personality."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Thats DOCTOR Wily."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "And if you wish me not to have my fangs out... that can be arranged..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "I'm not a war robot! I'm a Top Man! Right, Daddy?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Indeed, Reploid. Indeed."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Sucks to be you. But then we've already established you suck. Suckity-suck-suck."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Mr. Wily, if you could explain please, why do you feel that titles are so important?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Do you attach significant personal importance to being called by a certain title and holding position over others?"

"But where," Abernathy says, innocently, "would the fun in that be?" Of course, in his twisted logic, if Andruw HAD wanted to poison him with the tea, the best way to get some WOULD be to sneak in and steal it, thus insuring that it couldn't possibly be poisoned. Isn't paranoia grand? He takes another sip of the chai, humming to himself.

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Daddy's a Doctor, not a Mister! You should call him Doctor Wily 'cuz you can't call him Daddy like me."

[Radio: (F) Public] Stutterriffic Junk Man hisses to the big shiny bug, glitfchily of course. "It is is not somethint th-that was in the the the *zh* the original schematics bug..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Because we didn't give up years of our lives studying so we could be called 'Mister' or 'miss'! DOC-TOR. Yes."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Hey bugboy."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Yeah, what Rigger says."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man coughs once, and in his spectacularly romanian accented voice, he speaks like some of those foreign alchohol announcer people, "Wily Beer. Because Light Beer sucks."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Mainly the fact that I worked and proved that my intelligence and drive are far above others. I ask you, have YOU built one of the most advanced androids the world has ever known? Have you personally built and rebuilt over eighty Robot masters? Have you developed weapons and devices capable of changing the very fabric of the world? Or to make things even more simple. Did you invent technology that allows us to stop time itself?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "Since when did we get commercials on this channel?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "... Stuff it, Wily."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "As I said to Mister Doppler, as regards fields of his study he will be refered to as 'Doctor'. In day to day communication its somewhat silly, as Mister Wily cannot be assumed to be speaking on the matters of his field of study as an expert at all times."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger mumbles about rubbing things in.

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man laughs softly.

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Hey! You can't say that to Daddy! It's not nic!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "An interesting stance."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "No, Mister Wily, I also wasn't responsible for funding Mr. Landon DeVry for a period, nor was I responsible for the outright murder of UN diplomats."

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "He was drunk at the time."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "During the murder or the funding period?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "*snarls* If you ever remind me of DeVry again, I will rip your processing core from your body and smash it in front of your optics."

[Radio: (F) Public] Guts Man transmits, "And how!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Yes. Both. Either."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "...he was continuously drunk for several months?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Why is this so hard to believe?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Nooo, Daddy, you should make Bass do it. He likes crushing peoples' processors! It'll make him happy!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Mister WIly, do you require counselling?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Andrew Creeves yawns. "He's a genious, and yet he's insane. Isn't it great how both of those seem to go together?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Vex Chameleon transmits, "Ooh, touchy touchy.. Looks like the bug found a soft spot."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "I don't mind DeVry. Every time I see a cigarette being crushed into his highly compressed body it makes me smile."

Andruw remains there for a moment, expression flat and eyes slightly narrowed. "Oh, now, that makes perfect sense." Deadpan, deadpan, deadpan. "Please. Make yourself at home."

He pulls away, and beelines for the kitchen. If there's a pot of tea on, he may as well have some.

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Unfortunately, I do not have that pleasure, Ms. Rigger."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "What was your relationship with Mr. DeVry, Mr. Wily?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "I'll video tape it sometime."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rumble Silverfish transmits, "Our records indicate he aided and commanded your troops at times..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Unfortunate and ill considered."

[Radio: (F) Public] Dr. Cossack transmits, "No need to videotape. Perhaps I vill visit some time."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Bulls*&^, bugboy."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Hi, Mr. Russian Man!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Ahh...Pavel. It would be nice to sit down and have a smoke with you and Thomas again. Perhaps even Edward can come."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Ooh, DeVry got turned into an ashtray? Why didn't anyone tell me?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger giggles, "Cossie!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "DeVry was... amusing in a way. Such a wonderfully twisted mind. To have killed all those people via a twisted bid for immortality... ...killing most of them. It was like he was testing all the different ways to kill people to see how to prevent them..."

Frequency f is now gagged.

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "This reminds me, I wonder what I should do of that mask of DeVry's I had procured at the auction of his belongings..."

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "Wear it?"

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "I would not defile myself in such a manner, even with DeVry's 11th hour repentance. I was merely pondering over whether to sell it, or perhaps donate it to the Casablanca museum."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man, cheerfully: "I'll take it!"

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "You already have a mask of thy own,, Sir Tengu."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "So?"

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "Put it in a museum, then. We can make a macabre story about it and say it's haunted. That usually frightens humans."

[Radio: (B) None] Guts Man transmits, "Nothing scares me."

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "...that would be...a rather interesting use of such an item. We would not even need to embellish on such a story. Merely tell the story of DeVry's wretched life."

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "We have enough creepy audio of him to occupy several hours."

<Rigger goes nutso. ;D>

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Are you quite alright, m'lady?"

[Radio: (A) None] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...Rigger? Are you ok?"

[Radio] Rigger sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Just... no."

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "I suppose it is decided then. The Casablanca museum shall have a new attraction by tomorrow."

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Oh?"

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Are we tanked again, or is this something different?"

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "We have some other crap of his kicking around the Fortress too."

[Radio: (B) None] Dr. Wily transmits, "Such as?"

[Radio: (B) None] RM #30 Dust Man transmits, "Who?"

[Radio: (B) None] RM #30 Dust Man transmits, "Anything I could have?"

[Radio] Rigger sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "What would you do if you found out one of the most antisocial people you know in the entire world were playing suck-face with the enemy? One he was related to?"

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "DeVry. He had some miscellaneous effects various Robot Masters have `liberated' from him over the years. Several Masters went to that auction and bought tons of his junk. I bet it made the Russian a few million."

[Radio: (B) None] RM #30 Dust Man transmits, "Reeeealy. BEsides my drones?"

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "I imagine I would be quite disgusted."

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Quite, or very. It depends on how much I enjoy said antisocial person's company."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Awright! Ah finally got muh helmet clean!"

[Radio] Rigger sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "As am I."

At least Abernathy was considerate enough to make a pot of tea--and leave out another mug, as well as the honey. Even if he doesn't like the stuff, he understands the deviant tastes of others enough to appreciate that most people don't like their tea astringent. But the man himself remains on the couch, still sipping at his own beverage. "Don't mind if I do."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "Congratulations."

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Mm. And this is cause for... all this? Hm, hm, hm."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent chuckles rather darkly, "If you need a hand Rigger, i'm all for it..."

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "Yes. Many various, stupid things."

[Radio] Rigger sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "*sighs*"

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "Well. I'd attempt to allay some of that stress, but I really don't have any good ideas at the moment as to how. I ran out. You'll have to pardon my, uh, lack of... whatever."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "_I_ have a _quarter._"

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "I bet none of YOU have quarters."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Ah have a belt."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "It's big."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "But I have a QUARTER."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "I'm gonna call it Bob."

[Radio] Rigger sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "You're male, that'd be enough. ... Pardon. Slip of the libido there."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "Bob and Mr. Fluffums are best friends already!"

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "An' it has mah name on it, w' HARDCORE in big ol' letters."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "It means ah'm badder than you."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "I saw a tape in Daddy's room that had 'HARDCORE' on it. Are you in it?"

[Radio] You send Rigger a direct message: "*smirk* Quite alright, m'lady."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Yeah."

[Radio: (B) None] Bass transmits, "...a low so deep that it becomes `up'..."

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Ahm in that."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "Really?"

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Hell yeah. Ah'm th' host."

[Radio: (B) None] Top Man transmits, "Wow!"

"I'm sure," Andruw murmurs audibly, as he goes to set up his own cup of chai. A little milk, a bit of honey -- ah. Mmmm. He leans against the counter, taking his first sip while -- attempting to offer Rigger some comforting words. Dammit. He's such a softie with the mask off...

[Radio: (B) None] Gamma XO Hard Man transmits, "Heh. 'ey, Dad."

Abernathy simply remains on the couch, curled up with his mug of tea -- look how nice he is, he even took his boots off. No sense in messing up the apartment, after all. "Busy day?" he asks, idly, after Andruw's had his first sip of tea.

[Radio: (B) None] Dr. Wily transmits, "Pavel, you don't even want to know."

Eyes narrowing once again, Andruw moves from leaning on the counter to leaning on the doorframe separating the kitchen from the living room.

"Oh. Well. The Daughters of the King think I'm living in squalor, and... seeing what I've got lying around--" A pointed look at Abernathy here. "--I'm starting to believe them." Mutter.

Frequency f is now ungagged.

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Aren't they?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Squirrel tail?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Yes. Shake it."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...You're /still/ going on about that Rigs?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "No thank you."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "So I like dancing, sue me."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Another thing in common we share."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Besides. It shuts everyone up as they try to figure out what I'm talking about."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "I would, but--"

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "I'm not built to dance. Being 12 feet tall and all."

[Radio: (F) Public] Top Man transmits, "Bend over, let me see you shake your tailfeather! Hee hee."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "So let me get this straight."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Bit late for that isn't it?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Not only are you a vampire obssessed with Rigger, you're a /dancing/ vampire."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Excuse me?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits thunderous pounding. Like footstomps, they then stop.

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "Simply because you're tall, Magma, doesn't mean you can't dance."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "That's what happens when I dance."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "They're already bent."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "I see."

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "things take time to learn. You're an amazing martial artist, some shifts from stance to stance can be just as good."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man's voice comes across with the rapid beat of techno music in the background. "...Mmm... Definitely."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "Pah, dancing...."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Eew. Techno."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Mm. Were I a masochist, I'd ask for a demonstration."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Ugh."

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "You mean to say you aren't?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "Ah. Good day Director."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Well, no. Not really."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Are you?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "No, not really."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "I really need a drink...."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Mm."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Aaabernaaathy!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Wow! It's Dr. Wily transmits, "Ahh....Indeterminate Gender Man. Or should I say Abernathy. When are you coming by Africa to get fitted with Wilycode?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "How's the bestest cutest widdle passionfruity director doing today?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste ...laughs.

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "I think they like you, Abernathy."

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "...passion-fruity?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "You heard the woman, sir."

"I'm glad you think so highly of me," Abernathy says, brightly. "Though I always thought I improved the decor, but to each his own." He takes another sip of the tea, casting Andruw a wickedly amused glance over the rim of the mug. Setting back at lap-level, he cups his hands around it, mostly for warmth. "Just so long as they don't find out that I'm li -- " He suddenly stops midsentence, closing his mouth with a *click* and looking ... shocked.

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Yeah."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "This Abernathy character sounds very disturbing."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...Rigger? You're my friend, and you've put me back together a lot, so don't think I'm being mean...but you're /weird/"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste, amused: "Oh, he is. Even more so in person."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "What? He tastes like it! Ask Dynamo!"

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "Come to think of it, I did hear about his unusual skin condition by a certain source...."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon sputters. "I DON'T NEED TO KNOW THAT!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Retro Packrat transmits, "...I WON'T....say.....anything."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste laughs.

[Radio: (F) Public] Bass transmits, "Dynamo, the cad."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Yes, you did need to know that. Now I can be amused by your reactions."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...."

This is weird. Andruw is here, and present, and thinking, and talking and acting but /dammit somehow the Fool is still on the radio/. Adopting a slightly sour expression as the Fool gets more and more talkative, Andruw keeps his eyes fixed on Abernathy.

"Yes. Something tells me they wouldn't...like... that." Uh oh? "Something the matter?"

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "I must be insane to listen to this jabber"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Well, no."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "You just have to not be mute."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "OOC: ..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "OOC: DEAF."

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "OOC: ... he can't count, he can't spell, and he can't talk either."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "You have to be insane to contribute. Or just pissed off."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "OOC: haha"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "To /enjoy/ it, you must be insane."

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "OOC: BEHOLD THE WONDERS OF AN EDUCATION AT OXFORD!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "OOC: Abernathy, get out of my apartment RIGHT NOW. XD"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "And if I were any more of a Sadist, I'd dance the Chodush for you, with Rigger as my partner. Ahh, to be Dead and to Love It... such a WONDERFUL state of being!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "OOC: Fine. I'm taking the tea with me."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "OOC: That's it, you're FIRED."

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, ".... Sha--... Actually, no, I'll not bother even attempting to get anything through such a stubborn mind.."

[Radio: (F) Public] Abernathy transmits, "OOC: Free at last! Free at last! Glory be! I'm free at last!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "What the hell is the 'Chodush'?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "And, as for the Director... ...I've not had the pleasure yet. ...I must though."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "......I dunno why I'm even on here."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "You sound like an alternate version of myself, Shade Man. We must meet sometime....."

[Radio: (F) Public] Feste transmits, "Goodness."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Dance the what now?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "My dear... by a copy of 'Dracula: Dead and Loving It'. Ahh... Leslie Neilson... nothing like the classics."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "..."

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Rather not. Rots the brain."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "Most movies suck."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "If you knew me, you'd think my mind was already in shambles....."

[Radio: (A) None] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...I could make a movie...a martial arts comedy....."

[Radio: (A) None] Stiletto Sterling transmits, "Enlist Dr. Cain, then."

Abernathy's hands tighten around the mug as the thread of conversation continues on the radio, but he does not say anything -- either on it, or to Andruw. But you'd better believe that he notices the other man's unusual form of schizophrenia. Finally, he uncurls his hands and takes another sip of his tea, apparently deigning not to answer.

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "I'm sure Jet Stingray would offer help."

[Radio: (A) None] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...Hmmmmmm......It could be neat...but the fish would probably think I'm butting in on his bit."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "And, my dark and sinister voiced friend... if you would wish to meet me, perhaps it can happen one day. I must warn you, however... I bite."

[Radio: (F) Public] Tengu Man transmits, "Ugh!"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "Shade.. Can I propose something to you?"

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "Hmm, interesting."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...Shut up. Please?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Anyway, no matter. Time to Rave."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "I may have had too many sherries today"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "Shade..?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger transmits, "Fangface, you're being spoken to."

[Radio: (F) Public] Shade Man transmits, "Yes, my friend?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "I'll not doubt your words if I can see but two things with my own eyes. A lack of reflection, and your bite causing me to be the same as you."

Oh, well, okay then. Andruw shuts his eyes and shakes his head -- damn you, Feste. Stop that, it's my turn.... and... I don't want to have to be *clever* all the time. It's *hard*.

Once that utterly futile gesture is done with, Andruw refocuses on his tea. Sip, sip. Hey, Abby's awful quiet... "Still cognizant over there?" He looks awful concerned, doesn't he? "Come on, then. Are you alright?"

[Radio: (F) Public] Rigger groans. "I'm not going to fix someone that willfully gets themselves injured for no reason."

[Radio: (F) Public] public channel Cargo transmits, "Speaking of death, i too have recently taking an interest in it....probably too much coroner work"

[Radio: (F) Public] Argent transmits, "I'm not asking you too, Rigger."

[Radio: (F) Public] Magma Dragoon transmits, "...I haven't done that in a long time Rigger!"

Frequency f is now gagged.

"I'll be fine," comes the quiet reply. Adrian takes another little sip of his tea, and fixes his gaze on the carpet. He doesn't seem much interested in talking right now.

He cannot help but be so *confused*. He missed something vitally important there, and... urgh. The both of them just HATE being left out of the loop...

Andruw shuts himself up by further sipping of tea. This, obviously, must be handled very carefully. He quietly and carefully returns to the spot behind Adrian, and thinks up something nice and considerate to say. "Are you sure? You don't look it."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "... You're funding that war machine?!"

[Radio: (A) None] Magma Dragoon transmits, "Did I say buy? I meant stole from the stuff we swiped."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "Oh, erm, sorry about that. *Sigh* I'm not having a good night it seems..."

[Radio: (A) None] Magma Dragoon transmits, "Don't worry 'bout it."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "You should mention it was free Magma. Heh."

[Radio: (A) None] Argent transmits, "Anything that's free tastes better, after all."

Adrian nods slightly to this, not saying a word. Instead, he takes another sip of his tea, before giving a quiet sigh. When he does speak, it's not on the issue of whether or not he's fine. "How do you do that, anyway?" he inquires, quietly.

Awuh? "Do what?" Andruw sips at his tea -- mm, tea -- and leans on his forearms on the back of the couch. I am the very image of concern and worry and...

Adrian makes a vague gesture with his free hand, as if this explains everything. Apparently deciding after a moment that this doesn't, he adds aloud: "You're -- not being yourself. You're the Fool on the radio and Andruw here." He takes another sip of his tea as he waits for his answer, and realizes he's running out. Hm.

"I... I'm not sure," Andruw admits worriedly. "I certainly didn't intend... but... I started out talking to someone and then it just switched over." He takes another large gulp of tea and sighs. Oh, look, a distraction. "Need more tea?"

Taking this as no more than a statement of fact, Adrian doesn't ask questions -- just gives a slight nod. "I see," he says, and perhaps he does. At Andruw's question, he offers the mug quietly. "If you don't mind. I didn't mean to take much of it."

"It's quite alright," Andruw answers, accepting the cup with his free hand. "You're welcome to as much as you want of it. I guess." He bites his lip, mildly, and takes another sip.

See, Feste would've made you get your own damn self, but not Andruw... (he'll get it eventually. really!)

"Mm, well." Adrian remains right where he is, folding his hands in his lap and staring down at them. "It's fine. Your tea." He closes his eyes, breathes out, recenters himself. "Don't worry about it."

Andruw offers Adrian a brief look - perhaps of disbelief? - and then disappears into the kitchen to pour Abby another cup of chai. "Too late," he mutters, quietly. Perhaps Abby won't even hear, what with Andy's being in another room...

...forget...that. He's *going* to find out, dagnabbit. At least, if he gets his way... the suspense is killing him.

Adrian does hear -- something, though it's not necessarily whatever it was that Andruw said. He raises his eyes slightly, then looks back down at his hands, the model of penitence. Or something. He does accept the fresh cup of tea with a grateful nod to Andruw, before taking a sip of the hot, astringent beverage. Mm.

"You're welcome," Andruw murmurs, before sliding down onto the couch, next to Adrian. "But... what happened? Come on, you can tell me..."

[Radio: (B) None] Snake Man yawns. "Massster, do you have a moment?"

Adrian coils his hands around the tea, warming them again. "I was just surprised," he says, after a moment. "Unpleasantly," he adds. "That's all." He takes another sip -- more big swallow -- of the tea, and looks a little miserable.

[Radio: (B) None] Snake Man transmits, "Uhh, Massster?"

[Radio: (B) None] Dr. Wily transmits, "Snake Man...not now, please."

"By what? Care to share?" That's Andruw, too curious for his own good. At least he isn't all up in your face -- he's sipping his tea, sitting a respectable distance away.

[Radio: (B) None] Snake Man transmits, "Uhh, okay. Whenever you have time. Isss there sssomething wrong?"

[Radio: (B) None] Dr. Wily transmits, "We'll see....."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "What's up, Dad?"

[Radio: (B) None] Theta CO, Sword Man transmits, "M'Lord?"

[Radio: (B) None] Pharaoh Man transmits, "Simply state the problem, Amun-Wily, and I shall see to it's remedy at once."

"No," Adrian replies after a moment. "Not particularly." He pauses, then licks his lips and looks mildly confused. "I ... don't really taste like passion fruit, do I?"

[Radio: (B) None] Dr. Wily transmits, "*automated response* Dr. Wily isn't in right now. Leave a message and he might call you back."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "...uh... okay."

[Radio: (B) None] Snake Man transmits, "Hmm. I guesss he wantsss to be left alone."

Wait. He *did* hear that. Was THAT it? ......

Andruw hmms thoughtfully -- what would be the *right*, tactful thing to say in this situation. Feste, of course, has a few suggestions... "Uhm... sort of... I think." DON'T SAY IT, Andruw. DON'T.

[Radio: (B) None] Snake Man transmits, "I wonder who pisssed him off?"

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "All I know is, it wasn't me."

[Radio: (B) None] Pharaoh Man transmits, "Which, no doubt, means it was."

"You think?" Adrian asks, still looking mildly confused. He glances over at Andruw, then looks back down at his tea. It's hard to tell if he's playing coy, or actually that confused.

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "Oh, shut up."

[Radio: (B) None] Pharaoh Man transmits, "What was it this time? I swear, if we have to evade statuatory rape charges...."

[Radio: (B) None] Reject Tengu Man transmits, "/Excuse/ me!"

Frequency b is now gagged.

"Well... I'd probably have to... get another taste." FAILURE. Andruw blinks quietly, as if he cannot believe he actually just *said* that. Curse you, Feste! Curse you! "But was that...really what surprised you so?"

Adrian pauses at this, one corner of his mouth quirking in a slight smile -- and he glances up from the tea, considering Andruw a moment. At last, he gives a slight shake of his head and goes back to his tea. "No, not ... quite. I was ... simply wondering."

Andruw responds with a similar, ethereal smile -- embarrassed. He attempts to hide it by sipping his tea, but he's quickly back on the rebound. "What, then?"

"I don't want to talk about it," Adrian says, very simply. "I ... really don't." He pauses and takes another slow sip of the tea, tapping his fingers absently against the sides of the mug.

"I'm sorry if I've ... distressed you."

"Oh... ah... forgive me." Curses. Screwed up again. Andruw looks away, sipping his tea rather absentmindedly. "No... no... quite alright..."

"Don't," Adrian says simply. "You don't need to apologize for being curious." He finishes off his cup of tea, staring at the dregs -- not that he knows how to predict the future from them, but it's something to fixate on. He glances briefly over at Andruw, after a moment. "You're certain?" A little hypocritical, isn't he?

Andruw's cup may have lasted a really long time, but... all things must come to an end. He sets the mug down lightly -- on the floor, for lack of a coffee table, honestly. He should get one of those.

"Can I apologize for apologizing? And... I think so. Don't give me a reason to change my mind, yes?" He smirks lightly.

Following Andruw's example, Adrian sets his mug on the floor. No wonder people think he lives in squalor.

Leaning back, Adrian glances over at the other man -- and smiles again, slightly. "No, you aren't. I absolutely won't stand for it."

Psh. He cleans up after himself... most of the time.

Andruw, after a moment's pause, looks over as well, bearing a warm but wan smile. "Alright then, I won't."

Adrian nods at this, pleased ... then looks away suddenly, apparently distracted by his radio. Whatever it is he's hearing apparently does not make him happy, as the look of pleasure totally fades from his face, and he raises one hand to his right temple.

Oh, great. Not again! Andruw frowns, slightly, concerned once again. "What's wrong -now-?" Dagnabbit...

"My /life/," Adrian replies, with a surprising amount of bitterness. "That's all. Nothing important. Don't worry about it." He flops backward against the couch, closing his eyes and tenting his hands at his temples.

Andruw's shoulders slump, and he gives Adrian a particularly sad look. (*sadface*) "Specifics, sirrah, specifics. How am I supposed to succor you if I don't know what's -wrong-?"

Hey, wait a second. He just said 'sirrah'...

Well, it was bound to happen at some point or another. Adrian notes the change in syntax and drops his hands to his lap again, lacing his fingers together. "I have found," he finally says, "that there a great number of people who want to kill me for all the wrong reasons." He looks up. "It's extremely unpleasant. I wish they'd just get the idea that I'm not important at all and go away."

Ngh! Andruw bites his lip -- and hard. Slipping. He's slipping. What kind of horrible nightmare is this, anyway? He... he's losing hold of himself? Andruw Nisse is just another role...? No. That isn't right.

"Sadly enough, I can sympathize. Sort of." A sigh. That sounds so dumb, though. "Unfortunately... you are important..."

"I am not," Adrian says, "important. The job is important. I'm not important. Adrian Vorlaikal -- Abernathy -- is not important. I am interchangeable with the next bureaucrat who comes along with enough ambition who WANTS the hellish position." He glances over at Andruw, and smiles thinly. "Not a lot of men can claim to be Fools, Andruw, but a very great many have been top officials. We're creatures of circumstance. We live or die by chance. We aren't important as men, just placeholders."

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Chill Snowcat.

You intercept Chill Snowcat's transmission to Abernathy: Sir....Is it possible ta make a request?

Aha! Andruw smirks half-heartedly as he listens attentively, and it's a long time before he comes up with an adequate response.

"Someone told me," he says softly, "that circumstances make themselves."

"Perhaps," Adrian concedes quietly. "They do. But that doesn't change the facts of my position." He looks down at his clasped hands, ignoring his radio.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: *Comes across sounding a bit frantic and desperate* Abernathy? Did you ever find out of Tengu Man attacking you was Kalinka's fault or not?

Enh, it was worth a try. "Well. There's nothing I can do about that," Andruw sighs. Hey, what's this, now?

"You all seem so... panicked, so anguished. What's going on that you aren't telling me, Adrian?"

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <sigh> I'm almost certain she was involved, Dr. Matthews. Why?

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: She just resigned her commission as a Hunter and is turning herself into the authorities. She won't exactly tell me why but she says it is in regards to something she did to you several months ago.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Rigger.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <oddly cold> /Good./

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: *sighs dejectedly* Ah. Yes. She did, apparently... I'm sorry. I had asked Sonata to investigate it, but...

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <quietly> Anything said now about the matter would be a waste of words. She made a mistake. And now she's confessed, and is going to deal with it like the adult she /ostensibly/ is.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Sixteen is hardly an adult. The last I checked that was just the age of consent. And lord knows she hasn't done *that* yet given she only dates reploids. You'll pardon if I'm a bit upset even if it is the right thing to do. I feel old. Too old for this crap.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: ... I don't suppose you would perhaps be amenable to a compromise, of sorts?

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: /If/ you check our files, her father has given her her release. /Legally/, she is an adult, Dr. Matthews. And it is /not/ a part of Interpol's policy to offer compromises on behalf of conspirators, no matter what their age or status.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: *whispers* This might just be the final straw to send Pavel over the edge. You have no idea what kind of a ticking bomb he is. She was the only thing he had left.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: I know very well what the doctor is capable of, Dr. Matthews. /If/ he wishes to discuss his daughter's status -- he'll come to me.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Do you remember when the Stardroids were here? Of course you remember. But those of us who went into Starhaven... We saw things. Shadows... whispers of what might come. I refuse to sit idly by and find myself faced with the prospect of finding him swinging from a noose again.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: I thought I watched him die during that debacle, Dr. Matthews. For the sake of his /duty/, to Earth and the human race more than any petty institution. Have a little faith that the man will be able to weather this -- or do you do him the dishonor of calling him a coward?

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Coward, no. A man who has lost everything and blames himself for it, yes. There's a difference.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <hisses> Suicide is the coward's way out, Dr. Matthews. He /knows/ there are other options, and I daresay that he would probably be /shamed/ if he knew you were arguing on his behalf.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Well excuse me for *caring* about the man! Lord knows someone around here has to, he doesn't look after his own well being!

[Radio: (A) None] Bowie transmits, "....oh hell."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "Hell indeed."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "And we're just about in the thick of it."

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: And you think I /don't/, Dr. Matthews? In a very real way, a part of this stems from *my* behavior and *my* feelings. So /please/, do me the service of /not rubbing that in my face/.

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "How are things over there anyway, Stiletto?"

[Radio: (A) None] Stiletto Sterling transmits, "Tell you when I get there.... still en route..."

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: I'm *not* you idiot. If you'd even bothered to give my idea some merit you would have heard that I was going to suggest a more personal level of justice for what she'd done to you.

Abernathy gets up off the couch all of a sudden, stepping carefully over the mugs and to the clear center of the room. There, uncharacteristically, he begins to pace, hands clasped behind his back and head down. Too much radio traffic. Not enough mental werewithal to keep up with it, AND try and reassure Andruw that the world is not about to fall down on him and kill him.

[Radio: (A) None] Bowie transmits, "Thare somethang else goin on Ah don't know about?"

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: /I AM NOT AT LEAVE TO TAKE MY JUSTICE OUT 'PERSONALLY' ON ANYONE, DR. MATTHEWS!/

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "...Yes."

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Aren't you?

... these efforts are thwarted, however, as he pauses -- and /screams/ into his radio, hands clenched at his side, fairly trembling with rage. ... someone's gotten him mad, apparently.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <very quietly> No. That would be an abuse of my station.

[Radio: (A) None] Bowie mutters, "Shoulda stayed in bed..."

My, my. The things he hears... the things he sees.

Andruw swallows first at the things being discussed over the radio, and then -- the pacing and then -- the screaming and then... what comes next?

His eyes widen slightly, flaring a brighter red. Talk about not being important. Andruw now has the significance of a dust mote. He can but watch as Abernathy pitches a fit right in the middle of his flat.

[Radio: (A) None] Dr. Cossack transmits, "I vill tell you."

[Radio: (A) None] Dr. Cossack transmits, "...you vill all know."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "Cossack?"

Jealousy -- melancholia -- rage. Abernathy has them a little out of order, as almost immediately after his outburst, he slumps to the floor, burying his head in his arms and drawing his knees up to his chest. He simply sits there for a moment, breathing quietly and waiting for the voices to go away.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Released from her father or not by law, she is still a child. One that has been treated like an adult for far too long and not allowed to grow up in a natural manner. It has led her to be rebellious, stupid, and she has gone unpunished for a very long time. Everyone was afraid to. Except me, and I should have, but I didn't. I should have but she wasn't my child. And now... *Her voice cracks with emotion. It's not sadness though. It's fear* ...Now it's too late. Oh god it's too late and he's already... God help us all.

Well, gee.

Breathing quickened, Andruw cocks his head to the side ever so slowly. What's going ON, dammit someone CLUE HIM IN...

No, no. That's not important... that's not... what matters.

He slips off of the couch and onto the floor, to sit next Abernathy, to put his arms around Abby's shoulders... whether it will be okay or not, he's there.

It's the least he can do.... right?

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: Dr. Matthews. What did he say?

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: *sounds a bit paniced now, actually, and not quite all there* Oh god oh god oh god.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: <icily calm> Dr. Matthews. What did he say? What has he done, Julie?

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: <Seems to come out of her daze at use of her name, though she doesn't ask how Abernathy knew it. A deep breath is taken and she speaks monotone, emotionless> Cossack knew. He was protecting her. She did this of her own choice. He's locked himself in his lab now. ...I will not say anything more.

Instead of, perhaps, rejecting the touch, tossing Andruw away from him and getting up to pace again, Abernathy sits quietly right where he is. At last, once the radio traffic dies down a measure, he sighs -- and sags back against the other man, strung out.

"Why did I ever agree to get involved in this, Andruw?" he whispers.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "Good morning, Vorlaikal. I have started the inevitable fall of my house. How are you this morning?" >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "Half of my staff is running around like chickens with their heads cut off, and I have a hysterical woman pleading for me to stop you from killing yourself. I'm just great." >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "You have to have motivation to kill yourself, Vorlaikal. I am out of energy. I would rather the last of my energy leave my body so I may fall into permanent oblivion. But to actually rouse the strength to end myself? A power I lack right now. You have nothing to fear from me." >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: Dr. Matthews. Your fears are unfounded. For the moment.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: The moment. Yes. The moment. It's the future I worry for.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Rigger.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: He'll either die of ennui or find a way to keep on living. These things happen. We carry on.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: ... You sound so calm.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Rigger.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: Why shouldn't I?

Andruw is happy to just be there. To support.

"You know I can't answer that question," he whispers back. "I wish I could, but I can't."

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: For one who was berating me mere moments ago for worrying of such things happening to the man, you seem to accept it so easily now.

Abernathy reaches up to take one of Andruw's hands in his own -- though he keeps his head down and his eyes closed.

"I know," he breathes. "But I figured it was worth asking."

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "I know. My concern is not for what you will do, but what you won't, and what may happen if you don't. What do I do here, Pavel?" >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: Because I have closure now, Dr. Matthews. And honestly, there's no use left in panicking, on anyone's behalf. What will be, will be. It's in God's hands.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: I don't put much faith in god. I just keep remembering the line 'God helps those who help themselves.' Which means sitting by saying 'it's in God's hands' is a surefire way of setting yourself up for failure.

Andruw, for his part, does not flinch or move away or anything. That would be inappropriate.

"And it is, really..." Upon listening to more of the radio exchange, Andruw tightens his embrace a little bit. Ngh.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "I can no longer protect her. She defeated my obfuscation. More than likely, she will be disavowed from the Hunters by 0800 Seoul time to protect the organization. The Foundation is already restructuring to shield itself from liability, and my financial people are already creating such a nest of paperwork as to insulate our holdings from liability. She will be a paper tiger before the opening bell." >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rigger: It's also a good way of saying, 'I have no idea what the hell I'm doing at this point. God had /better/ take it in His hands.' Either way, getting upset at this point will do all of us very little good.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "I could buy her freedom from the Russian authorities, but that would only delay the inevitable extradition. I expect Interpol to take her into custody and begin grand jury proceedings, using what evidence you have to make a case for a criminal trial." >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rigger.

You intercept Rigger's transmission to Abernathy: Fair enough.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: <Channel is open. Abernathy is listening but not talking.>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "You may or may not have sufficient evidence to bring her to trial. If you do, I will see to it she has the best legal counsel I can find. I will not testify either for or against her. I will answer any attempt to do so with so many highly expensive legal manuvers and public relations gambits that any possible benefit that may be derived will be mitigated by the sheer cost of the undertaking. If you manage to convict her...then that is the judgement of the people. I will not act against the will of the people." >>

Abernathy breathes out in a quiet sigh. "I am listening to a man I admire very much deconstruct his life," he begins, conversationally. "With all likelihood, this will only end at the cost of that life -- either literally, or in spirit. There may be more lives taken in the death throes of the whole messy affair." He tightens his grip on Andruw's hand slightly.

"So why am I not panicking? Why does this not even bother me anymore?"

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "And what judgment do you see them passing?" >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "My familiarity with the law is primarily that of patent law. What would you want to charge her with, and what are the normal penalties?" >>

[Radio: (A) None] Stiletto Sterling transmits, "Well, their agent is retrieved..."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "Good."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "Good work. Thank you for helping."

[Radio: (A) None] Stiletto Sterling transmits, "Wasn't too much we really could do asides be there to provide support for the extraction. It went rather peaceably."

Andruw listens quietly, patiently. Whoo. That's pretty bad, it is. Unfortunately, he only has a real answer for the second question.

"Because you are weary, Adrian."

[Radio: (A) None] Main Rigger transmits, "That's the basic purpose of the Serpent's anyway. It's good practice."

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "Conspiracy to commit a felony. Assault, at the least ... murder at the worst. My status with the United Nations complicates things considerably, though as it wasn't politically motivated, it's not treason -- and there is no concrete proof it was an actual assassination attempt. Considering the ... other ... circumstances, it could be labeled a hate crime as well. The normal punishment is incarceration, usually with no hope of parole until time is served." >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "I wouldn't have expected anything less than jail time. How many years?" >>

Abernathy gives a small, frail smile at that. "I am.

"I am very weary of all of this, and I would like nothing more to resign, take you and my daughter, and hide somewhere where no one could ever find us until it all blows over. Or forever, whichever comes first."

He pauses, and takes a deep breath. "Or, barring that, resign, and get myself sentenced for high treason." But that's immaterial. He falls silent again, for the moment. More radio transmissions to make.

[Radio: (A) None] Kalinka transmits, "You know, I will say one thing in my defense. I did not try to have Abernathy -killed-. That much is not true."

[Radio: (A) None] Dr. Cossack transmits, "<< "Do not speak. Any more." >>"

[Radio: (A) None] Kalinka transmits, "*click*"

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "If she's lucky and your lawyers as good as I expect them to be, ten to fifteen years. If not ... " >>

That's interesting. Would've been mildly disturbing a month ago, but things have changed since then. Quite a bit.

Andruw hugs a little tighter, just a little more. He has only one question. "Treason? Why?"

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "Just tell me ... is there a possibility she will be executed?" >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "Yes. A small one, but a possibility nonetheless." >>

"Remember the Nigh incident?" Abernathy asks in return, not explaining himself -- quite yet.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "Thank you, Vorlaikal. For being honest. For what you tried to do." >>

"Vaguely," Andruw replies.

"I made a devil's bargain with a Stardroid. By the United Nation's laws, I committed an act of treason." His voice is untroubled. "By those same laws, I should be dead and buried by now. I imagine any sentence passed on me to be -- suspened for the duration of my service as Director of Interpol."

Abernathy pauses. "And I even expect that McLaren may intend to pardon me, or barring that ... simply forget about the whole mess." He smiles quirkily. "I don't intend to let her."

"I think you've made up for it," Andruw murmurs. Well, -he- does, if only because he'd rather Abernathy not be hung from the highest tree or imprisoned for the rest of his life.

Abernathy bows his head, still smiling -- albeit rather sadly. "As sweet as the sentiment is, Andruw," he murmurs back, "the matter is between me, the international courts -- and God. If they decide to issue me a pardon, I won't argue." He raises his head, opening his eyes and staring off at the other side of the apartment. Hey, it ... got dark out there all of a sudden. "But until then ... "

Eh, so what. Time is immaterial! Andruw hmms quietly -- he has no answer to this, really...

"Until then...?"

"I serve. And live, as best I know how."

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "I do my job, and nothing more. You have been honest with me, and I will be damned if I do not return the favor." >>

A satisfactory answer.

"Good," Andruw replies softly, giving Adrian a peck on the cheek. he just *can't* help himself... of course, that's an entirely different issue.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission to Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "If there is anything more I can offer, within the constraints of my power and my duties -- ask." >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Rock.

You intercept Rock's transmission to Abernathy: Director Abernathy, I'd like to personally apologize for what Kalinka Cossack did... if she is indeed guilty of what she has been accused of. I'd also like to say that the Maverick Hunters do not condone her actions and she has been released from the organization. Also, I have ordered the Hunters to not try and retrieve her from United Nations custody. May justice be done.

Abernathy receives a radio transmission.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "You have done enough for me already, Vorlaikal. If and when the time comes, though, I will ask only for mercy." >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Rock: Thank you, Commander X. As -- she was not acting in her capacity as a Maverick Hunter, you owe me no apologies, but thank you nonetheless.

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "May I be allowed to grant that request." >>

Abernathy receives a radio transmission from Dr. Cossack.

You intercept Dr. Cossack's transmission to Abernathy: << "Bless you." >>

Abernathy sends a radio transmission.

You intercept Abernathy's transmission to Dr. Cossack: << "And God be with you." >>

Abernathy is silent for a long while, simply staring off into the dark ... and something has changed.

There are tears on his face.

After several minutes of silence, he finally speaks up. "Thank you."

He knows they are there, but he really only has a vague idea of why. But again, that is not important.

"Of course," Andruw whispers.