Twi360

Megaman - Thursday, September 07, 2000, 9:01 PM
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[OOC] Blues says, "What's that Rhythm? Twila's in trouble? She fell in the well down by the old mill?"

[OOC] Bass kicks Blues.

Rocky Mountains - Colorado Springs, CO USA

The park itself is somewhat quiet surprisingly for this time of the year. After all, in the not-quite so blistering late summer warmth and the time not quite right for the fall chills to be settling in, it's the perfect time of the year to be getting out and about for fresh air. Perhaps the recent ending of a long weekend has something to do with this, what with everyone taking time to collectively 'catch their breath' and get back into the regular swing of the working week.

As it is, the park is almost all but deserted save for the two cousins present within it right now.

Of course, that's only counting human visitors. Within the embracing branches of a low-swept weeping willow tree, a figure perches silently. Immobile, and nearly a part of the trunk itself with it's position relative to the tree's slant. If not for the flashes of purple that peek through now and then. However the drooping branches of the tree help to cover up this giveaway factor rather nicely for the immediate moment.

And from these loose hanging leaves, two crimson orbs stare out, focused perfectly on the two humans, as senses well beyond that of any normal person extend their range, ready to listen in, and observe....

...and wait for the right moment.

"Twila, not like they're not at least trying to understand. All this...is just a bit much to keep up with, that's all," the blond can be heard saying as he places a hand on the girl's shoulder. "Besides all this...with you finding your brother...and then finding Lauren in so short a time...then the Stardroids...your 'death'...and now this. And on top of this, your relationship with *him*, you gotta understand that they need some time to 'catch-up'. You know how they are..."

The young woman hmphs in dissent. "And what about me. It's not like I actually asked to be placed right on this fast track. I don't expect them to understand fully. But they can't expect me to always agree with them either."

Treble tilts his head to the side faintly, though not as a result of where the conversation is going between the two. But instead to turn his glare and view a brief flash of ebony color in a bush on the furthest side of them both. While meaning little to anyone else....it's signal enough for the robotic hellhound, as he shifts forward on his perch once more, then gently releases his hold and soars to the ground. With the softest of thumps, his clawed feet settle into the grass, even the gentle whir of his hydraulics all but covered up by the swaying of the tree branches above him. While not as well hidden as he was before...the drooping leaves of the weeping willow provide a mediocre amount of last minute cover, as he begins to talk forward, body crouched low to the ground, claws set deep, as if ready to pounce when the time is right.

Closer...closer....almost.

Twila breaths in deeply and begins walking again, underneath the aforementioned tree in passing as she's followed, none the wiser. However, her companion does take a brief glance up as if suspecting a squirrel or some-such before turning to her again as she speaks. "I know...I know. I doubt they could ever agree something like this. I'm not seeking their approval, only their acceptance. And that of Rick. Sheesh...you were the one that gave the information that set us within the right direction."

"I didn't expect to lead where it did, Twi. You already know that I don't think all too highly of him either. And I doubt I ever will. I almost hate to say this...but it's hard to think of you being related to someone who's half machine." He cuts himself off, shaking his head sorrowfully. "I--I didn't mean it the way it sounded. I'm sorry this is turning out the way it did." Chris brushes a hand through his short cropping in frustration. "I miss the way things were when we were kids. It wasn't all so complicated."

Frustration? Things are certainly about to get a whole lot more frustrating for that matter in a moment.

Or interesting at any rate. Even as the two figures move right past him...within literally spitting distance, Treble remains perfectly still within his enclosure, until they're already begun to half expose their backs to him.

Then, and only then does he begin to move once more, paws setting down in the grass carefully, stalking more like a cat than the actual canine he's modeled after. Slowly, he emerges from his previous cover, now slinking up behind the two humans, optics narrowed to mere slits as his tail begins to lash gently back and forth in a now steady pattern.

Twenty feet away...
Fifteen feet...
Ten feet...

Twila's skin turns a slight pale as starts walking again. It's only a few moments later when she looks ahead of them towards the abandoned children's playground area. "I'm sorry you feel that way too---," she murmurs quietly.

"Twila..." the man starts in trying to somehow set this right. But something draws his gaze behind them. When he turns fully around his complexion turns paler than Twila's. "Uh, Cuz...friend of yours?" he gulps.

Twila looks behind her, wondering why the sudden tremor within his voice and jumps back a step or two. "What the---Treble?!"

"Treble?? You know this....*thing*?" Chris demands...taking a step closer towards his cousin...if only in attempt to try and protect her in some way...

Predictably, Treble's reaction is little more than that low toned, musical growl of his, the resonance having an almost echo effect to it. If it weren't coming from a robot that has a penchant for tearing small robotic beings to pieces for the heck of it, it might almost be pleasant to listen to. But right now, Treble is anything BUT pleasant.

A brief flare of flames comes from his nostrils, as he continues to glare at the two figures, straightening up slightly and turning to the side, as if a gesture that they aren't going to go ANYWHERE fast while he's watching.

"Oh she knows of him quite well..." Another voice splits through the air, the source of course being unmistakable to a certain redheaded someone.

With the bushes being pushed aside with the casualness as if they were little more than a curtain, another armored figure steps into the clear, this one ebony and gold in color.

Bass' eyes narrow as he settles his glare on the two humans, his position now on the other side of them both, effectively blocking them between both he and his robotic hellhound. "Much to her misfortune I would wager in many cases for that matter. It would appear trouble has a tendency of following this one. I've often pondered whether it be some sort of curse on her head. But her curse would be my gain in this situation...."

Chris bu-blinks as Treble's owner steps out into the open, wondering if perhaps this creature happens to be right about Twila. He's known from personal experience she's happened to get enough trouble on her own in the past. And it doesn't take him terribly long to discover who this one may be. "Uh...he's the Robot Master in charge...isn't he?" he side whispers to the girl, voice somewhat trembling. He knows of Masters first-hand, or at least of Enker in particular.

He's answered with a brisk nod and then a raised hand to gesture that he keep some form of silence. Potentially dangerous here, not that either need reminding. "And what's that to mean, Bass?" As she questions she bring her arm back down...gently tapping her watch and hopefully activating its distress signal.

(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: ' --- Distress signal activated, designation: Twila Peterson ---'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Oh crud...'.

(Ch. A [Hunter-Main]) Rock transmits: 'Twila, you okay? *sound of Sakugarne in the background*'.

Bass is on Twila within an eyeblink then. Almost faster than it takes to make a gasp of surprise at the sudden movement and blur of motion that he becomes. Almost painfully he seizes Twila by the arm, pulling it up hard and glaring straight at her, face set into a scowl that is indeed in the 'unamused' state of mind.

"What that means..." he grates. His free hand moves up and fingers pinch the very watch she tapped a few seconds ago, all but tearing the small band holding it in place with a quick jerk. This sends the item tumbling through the air with an oh so casual toss, to bounce off the trunk of the Willow tree nearby and land in the grass. Oh, Bass has had enough dealings with her by now to start clueing in to her actions themselves.

"As it stands..." he growls, hand still curled around her arm very tightly, "...I desire no interference from the time I will require from you...."

And Treble is on the watch within that span of seconds, eyes already narrowing faintly...then starting aglow and unleashing the twin laser beams that stab forward like a pair of knives, finding their target and causing it to burst into fragments at the point of contact.

Smoke smolders upwards from the perfect black circle that's formed in the grass...signaling the end of yet another piece of radio equipment.

(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: ' *horrible period of unbearable static...then...silence*'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Someone trace that signal and find her NOW.'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: '-groggy- What's goin' on?'.

Chris stands immobile, not really knowing what to do at this time. His body, then back to Bass. "Just what *is* it you want with her?" he says, apparently shaken from all this.

"Alright, *fine*," Twila bites out, holding in a wince as his hold slightly tightens. "Just what is it you want anyway? Couldn't bother asking 'Dear Abby'?"

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Twila's alert signal went off. Trace it NOW, I'm a tad occupied -- agh!'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Tracing... as best I can.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'I'm on it.'.

Bass's hand is next to find Twila's throat, gripping tightly, but not so tight to throw off the flow of air just yet. His own eyes narrowed to slits, he draws her closer, her fair features scant inches from his rock hard demeanor, crimson pupils all but boring holes into hers.

"Your time with the Hunters has indeed begun to breed a somewhat sarcastic and defiant edge in you...hasn't it?" he leers. Chris' words in the background are all but ignored, although Treble is more than willing to answer the man by sending a snarl in his direction, to the equivalent of a "shut up!".

Bass' fingers continue to keep their hold on the young woman's features, as he keeps right on glaring at her. "Since you appear to have been so exposed to my ways of acting before....you are no doubt well aware that when I state something...I state it so with no qualms whatsoever. And no intention of bluffing..." At that, his mouth curls back faintly, teeth almost bared in a snarl of his own. "I have no compunctions about killing you right here with but a simple crushing of my fingers. I admit it would be interesting to see just how your pretty features would contort in such a way when applied against direct pressure of such a magnitude. I'm sure Rock would find it most interesting at the same time...wouldn't he?" His voice then lowers into a deeper, more sinister tone. "...but so long as I have a use for you, you will continue to remain...alive at best to run back to his waiting arms. Give me a good reason however, and I will find the information I seek elsewhere in favor of disposing of an annoyance like I have disposed with so many more in the past...." With that, his mouth returns to a neutral line, a deep scowl. "Have we got an understanding?"

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Gettin' a trace, slowly... how're you doin', Protoman?'.

Across the mountains and the trees, a low sounding whistle echoes. Three separate notes... first a G... then a Bb, and then the final C... the last note holding out the longest. Anyone who's ever fought the Maverick Hunters probably knows this whistle, and who it heralds. From behind Bass, a crimson column descends through the sky, slamming into the ground. Though it leaves no physical damage, when it disappears, something altogether destructive is left in its place: Rhythm and Blues. Protoman stands with his arms crossed. That treasured smirk on his face as he gazes over the situation. Rhythm is not so calm about it however, crouched and feral, his mouth is twisted back in a snarl, not at Bass, but at Treble. Blues speaks, his tone surprisingly light for the situation. "'Cause killing her would stain your oh so designer look, Finhead."

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'I said I was on it.'.

(Ch. B [Joint]) Smite Squirrel transmits: 'New hostiles spotted! Vehicle 8 o'clock, infantry 12 o'clock high!'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '......'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: '...Understood. You need help, anyone, give me a holler and I can get dang near anywhere in a hot minute with the Alb.'.

A sharp intake of air is taken. Flashes of yet another time and place come to mind even as Twila closes her eyes and offers a slow now in response. Her eyes snap back open when a familiar tune as well as voice suddenly fill the air. She in no way relaxes however.

Meanwhile, the girl's cousin snaps his gaze towards the newcomer and merely stares. .oO(Great...another one. Dang machines...)Oo.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Stay in Medbay, pretty boy, I don't think we have enough blood to do another transfusion like after you decided to take Shadow Man on.'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'I'm feelin' much better, Protoman, thanks, and I think I can decide when I'm well enough to go about.'.

(Ch. B [Joint]) Smite Squirrel transmits: '<frustratedchitter> They're too close to the satellite, I don't have a shot.'.

Treble responds in kind to Rhythm, immediately lowering to a low snarl, his 'hackles' already up as his mane bristles, tail waving back and forth dangerously at the Light-built robotic canine. Still, he continues to hold back, remaining close to Chris' form throughout the brief exchange.

"Why not go where your words actually mean something Blues?" Bass glowers, not even so much as glaring back over his shoulder at the newcomer. "Then again, you might have trouble finding such a location. If you're here to save the humans...then consider me surprised at the fact that you actually managed to get off your rear and go about doing something. Anything else, and I would most certainly consider it typical as always." It's then that Bass finally tilts his head ever so slightly, to glare backwards, as he continues to keep his firm hold on Twila's form. "If you've got a point to make, then consider yourself having ten seconds to complete it. I have...business to conclude here."

Rhythm continues to snarl, circling around from Blues' side to inch closer to his counter part. Blues remains in his place, arms crossed, grin fading however. .oO(And they call me a jerk, geez.)Oo. "Pickin' on the little brother's girl, Bass? Can't let that happen." He doesn't mention it's because Rock would go insane...that'd just give Bass more reason to do it. "And what business could you possibly have with the girl? Tired of picking on big mean robots so that you've gotta go after humans instead? Strike at Rock through his girl instead of him? What a coward, not even the internal structure to face one of your own kind."

And the way that Bass is holding Twila at bay is more than convincing in keeping her quiet. If his hand positioned around her neck were any tighter at the least it would cut off her air supply...at the worst, break her spinal cord.

Andrews doesn't have much of anything to offer either. The way Treble's looking at him and how flippant the new arrival seems to be, his spirits begin to fall. Inwardly, he begins to more and more become convinced that his parents are indeed in the right.

Twila Peterson manages after a moment's pause. "At least let my companion go. He's nothing to you."

"Amusing..." Bass intones in response. "To hear such words coming from the one who cowers in Rock's shadow, ready only to reveal himself when the blaster bolts have no chance of coming his way, only to shoot those he finally decides to move against in the back. No Blues, you're the only coward standing around here. Even this fleshling female had the guts to speak back to me, despite the fact..." His fingers shift on Twila's features, as if a reminder he's still holding her. "...I could kill her with a single flex of my hand."

At this point, Treble continues to follow Rhythm's position with his glare, eyes still narrowed as watches, although his snarl has fallen to a low growl instead. A slow step forward is taken, his form actually brushing up against Chris's as he comes to a halt once more, apparently moving to try and intimidate Rhythm with his larger size. And perhaps his heavier firepower...evident by the second jet of flame that ignites from his nostrils once more.

Twila's question is now brought to bear. "Perhaps...." Bass begins, as if pondering. "If you're so concerned about humankind Blues, by all means, have one of them. The other will be delivered safely to Rock in due process of course, once I am QUITE finished getting what I want out of her." With that, as if moving on an unspoken command, Treble snaps his almost prehensile tail about, bringing it against the back of Chris' behind with a hard impact, as if to propel him towards Blues and Rhythm...whether he wants to go or not.

Blues rolls his eyes. "I'm the one living in Rock's shadow? Better look in the mirror buddy." He grins. "Always chasing after him? Always stalking? Going after his loved ones while you're goons are sent to fight him? You've got your accusation pointed at the wrong guy buddy." He glances over at Chris as the human is tossed towards him, Rhythm automatically moving between Andrews and Trebble. "I don't know what you need her for besides to live out your sick twisted fantasy, but letting you take her is not an option I want to consider right now, Finhead."

The medium-sized build of the young man is painfully thrust forward as he's smacked against his mid-back. Yelping, he hurtles in the air several yards before being dumped carelessly on the ground right beside the scarfed-clad android in a slight daze and with a very bruised back. He lays there for a moment, trying to collect himself before attempting to prop himself up. "No...leave her alone," he groans with a slightly defiant snarl.

Twila herself doesn't watch. She shuts her eyes, not caring to see her cousin pitched forward thank you.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Awful quiet... you guys okay?'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*panting* Just dandy.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Peachy'.

The sound of a buster armoring itself, as Bass' hand disappears within his forearm fills the air, his right arm snapping up as he tilts just enough to bring the weapon to bear on Blues' form. His other hand finally shifts off of Twila's neck, and reaches out to seize her shoulder. Treble moves up alongside the two then, having done his duty, and crouches down, flight thrusters already deploying. With a slight shove, Bass moves Twila closer to the robotic canine, indeed intending her to get on, while he never takes his eyes off of Blues. "I don't care if it's an option you want to consider right now...." he leers. "...the simple point and fact here is that you really don't have a choice? Do you? Go on...please. Persist. Make my charitable motion..." He motions his buster slightly in Chris' direction. "...mean nothing at all. By all means. Give me a good reason to open fire right now...and most likely kill him as well in the backblast at the same time. Weigh your options most carefully right now Protoman..." He speaks the very name as if he were tasting raw sewage in his mouth. "In truth, I really couldn't care if you attacked me as well. Either way I win...I either get what I want from her now, or I get to smash you into so much junk in the process. The choice is yours..."

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Alright... not so peachy.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Eh?'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Nothing, Rock, just stay focused down there...'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*sweatdrop, cough* Erm...'.

Twila Peterson winces, opening her eyes again as she's forced a step closer to the canine form, already knowing what this means and her chances of escaping whatever the ebony armored android has planned. She says nothing but gazes towards Blues pleadingly and switches her eyes towards Chris. At the moment, his life is immediately on the line...not hers.

Blues grunts, and falls back, looking to Chris and then back at Bass. "If she's got so much as a hair pulled out, I'll make your life more of a living hell than it already is."

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Maybe...really, really, really, not peachy.'.

Bass steps up onto Treble's form right after Twila is in place, hands now moving to grip each of her shoulders firmly as the mecha wolf begins to life into the air slowly with it's burden of two passengers instead of one. "Blues, the day that I begin to fear you..." Bass grates, lifting higher and higher. "...is the day that I lay down my buster and proclaim peace for all." Sarcastic as his tone may be, it carries no trace of humor within his voice, as Treble continues to rise into the air, eventually gaining height at a steady pace, now carrying both passengers aloft.

(Ch. B [None]) Rhapsody transmits: 'That's what you get for being too stubborn to call for reinforcements. Don't worry, though- Quire can't wait for the chance to put you back together.'.

Trembling, the girl's cousin makes it to his knees, looking back and forth between the two and then starts pushing himself up...and can only stare. .oO(She *really* needs to be spoken to about the company she keeps...)Oo.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Reinforcements wouldn't have stopped Bass from kidnapping Twila.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'WHAT?!'.

(Ch. B [None]) Rhapsody transmits: 'Way to go, big mouth.'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Don't believe in tact, do you?'.

Blues looks down at Chris. "So...what's your name?"

The man breathes in sharply. "Chris. Chris Andrews. Her cousin," he states in some annoyance as well as worry as the Master as well as his captive go out of sight. "You one of her friends?"

Blues nods slightly, smirking. "Yeah, you could say that..." He trails off for a moment. "Don't suppose ya heard what ol' finhead wanted before I got here?"

Despite the pain persisting within his back, Chris remains standing up straight. "Only stated something about wanting information...something that wouldn't have happened if she wouldn't be around you lot in the first place!" he snaps. Usually uncharacteristic of him perhaps. But this is an uncharacteristic situation.

Blues snerks. "Don't worry, I'm not found of her hangin' round my brother either, Chris." He looks down at the man. "Can you walk? Or ya need Medical assistance?"

"I'm fine," the man lies, already planning to make an appointment for himself with his doctor. For all he knows...that danged mutt could have gone as far as to slip a disc. "Look, isn't there a way to find them...or something? Isn't that what you hero types do?"

Blues rolls his eyes. "For what it matters, he can't go far with her, seeing as he's really not equipped to take her into space...unless he wants her to blow up from the vacuum." Proto grins, waiting to see what buttons he pushes on this guy.

And the buttons are rather easily pushed right at this moment. "Oh, is that all? Geez...I feel so much better. And *this* guy's worse than that thing Enker?! You know...you'd make one lousy psychiatrist..."

Blues shrugs. "You could say that... Bass throws quite the temper tantrums." His gaze flickers to Chris for a moment, but he doesn't respond to the last comment. Rhythm, however, makes his way over to Andrews, trying to sniff his leg.

Chris Andrews looks down towards the robotic canine and jumps back, being slightly on edge at the moment. "Lovely, and he has her," he grumbles while trying to shoo the dog away. "So, how do you plan to get her back, android?"

Rhythm whimpers and lays on the ground to cover his eyes with his paws. Blues shoots dog a quick glance before saying, "Eh, he just said he wanted to borrow her for some information. To bad I don't know what it is, but he'll bring her back, he doesn't have the ballbearings to kill her. Rock would decimate him."

Chris Andrews hrmphs in disgust. "That's always nice to know. As far as I'm concerned it's your Rock that got her into this whole mess in the first place." Is he being reasonable? Probably not. But at the moment, he's not quiet sure what to think. "Robot Masters, Stardroids, Death -- is that the type of resume you people give out?"

Blues snarls. "Hey, Buddy, I didn't choose, this. Neither did Rock. My bro got that title of Megaman thrust on him saving your races' hide from one of your own kind. Or are ya just gonna forget all about the fact that it's a mad man leading those robots?"

Chris twists his features to cast a horrid look. He would inwardly hate himself for even acting this way if this had been a human. After all, at least they can truly feel hurt and offended by his words of frustration. Not as if a mere robotic unit could...right? "Whatever," the young man grunts as he takes a step away from the android. "Just get her back. I don't care how."

Blues just stares at Chris. .oO(And this is considered the more superior species. Oh well, few dumb ones in every bunch, I would suppose.)Oo. "Lemme just pull away to do that out of my ---. Would it make you feel better if I let you lynch me? Maybe an inquisition? Feh."

Chris Andrews doesn't say anything for a few moments. "Listen, I'm sorry if I hurt any of your programmed or imagined feelings. But it's the second time I've seen one of those things whisk her away without a second thought and nothing's being done about it."

Blues rolls his eyes once again. "Better than hurting your imagined soul, I suppose. I don't think you understand... there's nothing we can do about that, we've got to wait for Bass to make a move."

Chris offers a helpless gesture. "And how would you when he did?"

Blues hrmphs, listening to his radio. "Whelp, never mind...looks like Bass made his move. Cya around, Mr. Andrews." And with that, he's gone.

<Meanwhile...>

Sky Above North America
As you descend towards the Earth's surface, the continent of North America grows gradually larger as soon you're able to spot the vast mountain ranges of the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains as well as see all of the vast forests and uncivilized lands in what would be Canada and Mexico.

For some distance the trio travel through the skies, air whipping past at high speeds, although Bass doesn't seem to be bothered by it one bit, as he slightly crouches, hold on Twila still firm. It's amazing how time can fly when one isn't saying much or commenting on much, because far, far below, the ocean is soon seen to be streaming by, having given way to the ground of the American coast itself.

Now, and only now does Bass finally speak, voice in a no-nonsense tone. "Now you will provide me with what I want...if you want to go back and see your precious loved ones again..." With that, Bass tilts his head just enough, straightening up as Treble slows his speed, enough that he can turn Twila to face him fully.

"Where is this one whom you call Feedback?"

The girl permits herself to be turned around of course, knowing being cooperative up to a point is a good way of surviving. "Feedback? I...I don't know. Usually just see him back at base..." she stammers, sensing she's not telling the android more than what he would already suspect. "Why?"

Bass narrows his eyes, as if the very asking of 'why' were the equivalent of spitting a four-letter word at him. As such, he ignores it, and continues on. "I know that he does not just lounge around your facilities at all times. Even he leaves from time to time..." Bass glowers.

Twila is at least consoled in the prospect that she wouldn't be giving away any vital data concerning her talkative friend...if only for the fact that she's not all too forthcoming with his places of occupancy outside of headquarters. "No, he doesn't. But you're asking the wrong person. I don't know." She's not even bothering to continue stating in so many words that even if she did know...she wouldn't say.

Bass growls low in his throat, as if finding not the answer he wanted...and seemingly aware that perhaps Twila IS telling the truth. It still doesn't stop him from giving her a small shake for good measure. "Such information you aren't going to surrender so readily are you? If you even -have- it..." He glares then for a moment, as if considering. "As it is, his mouth has gotten too large for his own good...as do his actions. Perhaps it's best if he's given something to think of on his own time...not that I anticipate that his CPU could handle such a prospect. He's truly too stupid to know just what he is dealing with in most occasions..." With that, he raises a single hand, leering as he speaks. "Know this....and take this to your friends if you so wish. Or choose not to...it really matters little to me in that aspect." With that, he crushes his hand into a fist, holding it just in front of Twila's face. "When next I see him....and I WILL see him, he will find out just how hazardous the supposedly innocent profession of photography can be to his health. Considering that I had been charitable with him once before...this time I will be far, far less forgiving. He probably will be too stupid to be actually afraid of the fate that awaits him.....which will mean little. I will be just as satisfied to have his ignorance facial expression in place as I tear him to pieces as it would be were he quaking in fear."

Twila's breathing becomes noticeably a tad labored and she even starts two sway slightly where she's standing. And being shaken by this creature doesn't help all that much in her keeping her balance. She opens her mouth to speak, but gulps air instead as her lungs cry out for more oxygen. Instead of answering verbally, she mutely nods, not being able to offer much else at the moment. However, when she's able, she questions, "What will you do to him?" she asks fearfully.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'What happened with the satellite.'.

(Ch. B [Joint]) Smite Squirrel transmits: 'Unaffiliated hostile left with the datacore. It's... <chitter> Uh oh.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'I see... .Uh-oh can't be good. All Hunters in the Antarctic, MOVE IT, back to the Vorpal. There's nothing more we can do.'.

"What will I do to him...?" Bass growls lowly, as if savoring the very mental images of just what it is he plans to be doing to Feedback when he does indeed get a hold of him. "...what I did to that fool noise will look like a PLAY session compared to what I do to -this- fool. He's played games with me for quite some time...and quite long enough. It's about time a proper...example was set. We shall soon see just whether his ego outweighs his brains or not..." He speaks that last tone, as if he's already got a plan forming pertaining to that very subject. Though of course, he's not about to be forthcoming with extra information for Twila's benefit. As if noting her swaying form, he then leans forward, as Treble pours on the speed once more, now plummeting in the direction of a landmass that has begun to crawl up...

Twila Peterson nods slowly as if in acknowledgment more than anything else. As the android peers ahead as the trio heads downward, Twila casts her eyes to her feet, noting the continents as they draw themselves ever closer as if to offer some manner of welcome. She breathes in with a shaky breath, finding it within herself to ask, "I take it...the interrogation...is over."

Bass continues to easily ride the robotic wolf's form as he 'surfs' lower and lower in altitude, approaching the continents themselves. Surprisingly...Bass' tone seems less vicious...even calmer at best.

"Perhaps you have little concept of just how lucky you are..." he intones in a low voice. "...but you're of far more use to me right now amongst the living than that of the dead, else I would have simply let you go and allowed the denizens of the ocean to feast upon your fleshling hide." He glowers for a few more moments, as if considering his own words. Far below, the lights of a grand city begin to become visible to the two. It's not hard to figure out just which city for that matter.

"But don't go thinking for a moment that this gives upon you some special privileges where I am concerned. You are well aware that I will find ways to -make- you cooperate in some cases. If I will not harm you..." he scowls then, mouth turning further downwards. "...then I will harm those you love, those you care about, until you agree." The very words are spoken emotionlessly, as if he were doing little more than making a business arrangement. "You can live the life of a shut-in for only so long...and even stacked away within the headquarters...you can only hide from me for so long. I WILL find you when I need something again....this is not a promise of what will be attempted. It is a promise of what will be done. I advise for your own health...and that of those you care about...that you be cooperative when the time comes."

Over the past year, Twila had suffered many threats as well as warnings from enemies. Now is no different except for an added incentive -- threatening harm on her love ones...not only those who dwell inside the labs but outside as well, including any friends and family she posses. This frightens her even more. She already knows Bass would be more than willing to make good on his promises. Treble continues now over the city the girl can only nod, terrified. "I---understand..."

Bass's features actually twist into a cruel smirk. "Excellent..." he breathes. "It pleases me to see that you appear to have a shred more intelligence than most that I deal with....we shall soon see just whether or not you remain true to your word...and whether it will require me to play my hand in the end or not." With that, he gives Treble's backside a brief push of his foot, causing the mechawolf to kick in his retro rockets and slow his forward velocity. By now the trio are streaking over the rooftops, rapidly approaching Light Labs.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Umm... Bass is outside.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'ARGH! Has he got Twila with him?'.

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'I... I think so...'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Good. Try to get her back.'.

On the roof of Light Labs Michael Eildath runs out onto the runway edge, dropping to his stomach and pulling his rifle, ready to fire if Bass tries anything. He hasn't said anything yet... he knows better than to tempt Bass.

(Ch. B [None]) Quire transmits: '...Don't worry, Rock. We'll get her back.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: '*Grunts* More like she'll be given back.'.

Lower and lower they begin to go, until cruising just above street level, and finally coming to a stop right in front of the vast headquarters itself, hovering about 4 feet off the ground. Bass releases his hold on Twila's shoulder, and puts a hand on the flat of her back, giving her just enough of a shove to send her forward, and to that four foot drop as well. "A pleasure doing business with you..." he grates finally.

Although recovering nicely from the lack of pure oxygen provided from the high altitude from where she had been taken it's still going to take Twila slightly longer before she's able to breath more easily. As such, when she's pushed forward she's unable to offer any sort of resistance when and, quickly begins her small fall without sounding even a yelp in surprise.

Blues grabs Twila then, flashing Bass a really dirty look. His mouth twists into a frown while he tries to help the girl stand.

Bass crouches down that much more now that the second passenger is off of Treble's back. With one hand, he places it on his companion's mane, as if for stability, as his flight thrusters begin to kick in once more, starting to oh so slowly rise him up again. "I told you I would return her when I was quite finished..." He grates matter-of-factly, face setting into a twisted sneer.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Hey, Rock, Bass took Twila back to the Wily Star for some kind of torture.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: '<pause> Just kidding.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Rhapsody transmits: 'You know, your sense of humor ****. Just like your fashion sense.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*snap-hiss-BOOM!!* CROSS-CHARGE MEGABLAST!'.

The young woman steadies herself from swaying with the help Blues is able to provide. Her breathing continues to try and work itself back to normal. So it's not that she's concerned about really. Easy to guess considering how many feet above the trio were Twila's stomach is a bit queasy. Talk about motion sickness. Well, she's not *that* bad. After all she has flown with Rock and Rush...as well as Signal Shrike before. But somehow they were more gently. She stares towards Bass in silent rage and looks ready to have a good cry, not exactly finding the right words to say...and the ones she does...well, it wouldn't be proper. "Just leave," she spits out.

[OOC] Bass woos. She's gonna cry. I'm gooood!

(Ch. B [None]) Quire transmits: 'Y'know I have to agree with my daughter on this one. I've always wanted to ask this... What, exactly, is with the scarf?'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'What exactly did you just take your fury out on, little bro?'.

Bass continues arising into the air, voice now moving to a light chuckle in response to Twila's words. "Oh believe me...I am..." he intones, giving her a somewhat knowing look. Oh, he's pretty sure she won't forget their recent conversation anytime soon for that matter...and he has no intention of -letting- her forget when the time is right as well. Slowly, he keeps right on rising, now going past the rooftop of Light Labs and beginning to clear it as well...apparently unaware of any who would be aiming at him right about now...and having visions of shooting at him.

Michael Eildath has visions of Bass sans eye. Pretty, pretty visions.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'The Wilysaucer... Though it had a VERY nice picture of Kaust Lostarret painted on it in my mind.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'You blasted the Wilysaucer and it survived? .oO(-20 Badaft points)Oo. You're losin' it bro.' And I need a medic outside the labs, A.S.A.P.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Bite me, Blue boy.'.

And as she's helped in standing Twila starts swaying towards the lift again, trembling now from her unsteadiness. However, she doesn't particularly seem to notice this much at all. At the moment, all that is able to go through her mind is what Enker seems to have first set in motion many, many months ago...seems to be reclaimed only by his commander...which is not a very good thing. "I--I think I'm gonna be sick..."

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'That's Twila's job, Bro. Sides, I did manage to catch your girl before she fell a got a booboo, don't I get a thanks for that? Or are you still in your rebelling stages?'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*snort* Thanks, bro. No rebelling, I'm just sick of taking crap from Kaust.'.

Michael Eildath pulls the gun up, and puts it aside. .oO(****!)Oo.

And being sick is exactly what Twila does. She pushes herself away from Blues and stumbles behind one of the nearby bushes...and oh, so nicely looses her lunch. Okay...so whatever it was she had gone through it *was* that bad...

Blues hrmphs at the radio, muttering lowly. "Yeah, I had enough robot hating today to last a while."

Bass continues on his way, his chuckle growing in intensity...and volume, until finally building to a near roaring pitch, voice following behind him as he goes skywards, the laughter in his wake just in that slightly 'off-his-kilter' type way. "Muhahahahahahahahahahahaha!"

After a few moments, and the gagging, passes, Twila seems to finish with whatever it was she had been doing in the bushes. Although, more than likely it's pretty noticeable at least from hearing. She remains kneeling there on the ground for a small time, just working on collecting herself. First her relatives and now this. It has *not* been a good day.

What's remains of what there was in Twila's stomach is swallowed by the ground. Actually, it wasn't all that much to be seen...but just enough to give a hint. As Blue's robotic dog makes his investigation over to where she's at she looks over towards him weakly. "Uh...sorry. You...missed the show, Rhythm..."

Blues just sorta stands there for now, waiting for Twila to get up and Rock to get back.

Meanwhile, Twila is indeed standing up from the bushes, but not without offering the robotic canine a gentle pat. She lifts a hand to her mouth, emitted a quiet burp before turning back to the others as they remain there staring. "What?" she blurts without thinking, still looking as if she could cry any moment.

Blues smirks. "Well, seeing as you just got whisked away by Bass, I'm sure a few of us would like some answers. Oh, and your family tried to have me lynched."

Twila Peterson lowers her hand enough she's able to place it on the wall to keep herself steadier. "Mmmm, yeah. They're very...loving that way..." she notes with sarcasm, earlier arguments sifting through her mind even now...among other things. "As for Bass, he was asking for information about Feedback. Seems...he has a 'score' to settle with him. And...there's something else too..." she stutters, glancing her eyes down towards the grass. "Seems I've been chosen by Bass to act as an unwilling informant for future reference." Twila adds belatedly, "He threatened family ties."

Blues snarls, keying his comm.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Rock, we've got a situation, as soon as you get a chance.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Sorry, got distracted. What?'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: 'Nothing much. Ya know, Bass threatening to kill family members of Twila's if she doesn't give him info...'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '****! On my way...NOW!'.

Michael Eildath finally stands, scanning the horizon with apprehension.

(Ch. C [Twila]) Rock transmits: 'Any RFers available, you have a unit downed at Antarctica. I'd return him but I'm a TAD busy.'.

(Ch. B [None]) Blues transmits: '*grunts* She's safe now, for what it matters.'.

Twila Peterson draws in some air into her lungs. Upon glancing about her surrounding again she starts forward towards the main entrance to the building itself. "I'll...be in the Med Center if/when needed."

Blues nods, heading inside himself.

<Inside...>

Medical Bay <Hunter HQ>
This room is kept immaculately clean and organized, from the polished tile floor to the bright exam lights and walls painted with soothing colors. Several repair and medical beds for robot and human patients line the walls, monitors above them indicating the status of the patient's vital signs. There are no windows here, as this is in the center of the floor and heavily reinforced against possible attack. It is here that the Maverick Hunter medics patch up the wounded.

The Medical Center is empty for the most part, save for a loan figure near the back of the room by one of the cabinets, specifically the one holding non-prescription strength medication for mild human ills. The young woman found there is bent over the the counter...and her head buried within her crossed arms resting on that surface. Her shoulders seem to shake with every sob that comes from her lips.

Rick Morgan was away from the HQ itself for quite some time. Though he had his radio set up that he could hear transmissions...he couldn't broadcast -out- of course. Imagine his frustration when certain other transmissions were coming through and all he could do was sit back and listen? Needless to say, having heard this is where she had headed, Rick wasted no time in getting down here. It doesn't take long for him to find just where she is off in the corner, and already he's moving towards her, one hand outstretching automatically, instincts already kicking in. "Twila...."

Twila Peterson lifts herself from the table top, drawing in a few hiccups, openly staring at her sibling until reaches out for him in kind and practically throws herself at him, clinging to him tightly. "H---He..." is all she's able to manage through her broken voice.

Rick Morgan is of course right there when Twila throws herself forward, arms already enveloping around her and hugging her close as well. "It's alright..." He says gently, reaching up one hand to gently rest on the back of her head at the same time. "He's not here anymore..." he murmurs. "He's long gone now..."

A new patient comes half walking, half staggering in from the main hallway. One of the few Hunter orderlies is right behind him, carrying an unconscious Seminole. Seminole has some electrical burns on him, while Smite is clutching a stab wound that goes all the way through.

Twila noticeably begins to calm down after a few good long minutes to get some of the emotion out of her system. She remains there in his arms, content to stay there. But the noise of incoming injured reaches her ears within her own misery. With tears still streaming down her face she asks in a small voice, "Quite an evening..."

Rick Morgan glances back over his shoulder, indeed noting those incoming injured as well for that matter. He frowns faintly to himself at the sense of timing, before sighing and glancing back to Twila once more. "Looks like duty is callin alright..." he offers, glancing at her features for a moment. It's then that he reaches aside to acquire a Kleenex from a handy box nearby, already bringing it up to gently wipe at Twila's features and clear away those tears that are still there. "It's alright...if you want, we can talk about it later...you gonna be ok for this? If not I can handle it."

The girl's throat tightens. "I--I don't know," she replies meekly.

The Hunter assists the orderly with putting Seminole up onto one of the beds, then slumps into a nearby chair himself. Not drawing attention, no -- don't want to disturb things going on as they are right now. Just sitting there and remaining semi-lucid.

"Then don't..." Rick says gently, reaching up to place both hands on Twila's face and gently kiss her forehead. "You just take it easy, I'll handle this all tonight, just try to take it one step at a time. You don't have to go anywhere if you don't want to either...I'm not going to be going anywhere for awhile anyway. Alright?"

Twila Peterson offers the cyborg a muted nod as she slides down to the floor to watch, drawing her legs up close to her in the process and hugging them rather closely. "Thanks, Rick..."

Rick Morgan turns about to view those wounded who were brought in, taking stock of those available right now to get at. He notices the reploid standing off to the side....well sitting more likely, and gestures to the nearest table. "Well...come on. Let's have a look at you.."

Twila Peterson merely watches from where she's seated, only half regarding what's taking place within the room.

The Hunter mutters a little bit, standing. "M'alright. <flick> Just a scratch." Never the less, he gets up and walks over to the table. He lays down and pulls his hands away from the wound - a sword-stab, clean all the way through. It's pretty ugly.

Rick Morgan hrms, and runs a scanner over the stab wound, furrowing his brow in concentration as he studies the readouts. Truth be told he IS still somewhat distracted by Twila nearby, finding himself glancing up now and then to check on how she's doing. After a few moments, he finally murmurs. "Well, best not to leave that as is...I'll see what I can do here. Shouldn't take too long hopefully." Soon, Rick is setting to work right away, expert hands flying over the injury, poking, prodding, and shutting this down. Shunting that. Replacing those....while the reploid begins to drift off.

"Oh I think evil has had a heyday today..." Rick mutters under his breath, orbiting around the robotic form, doing some last minute checks, before giving a clean bill of health right then and there. "Looks like you're in the clear now. Take it easy on those systems for about a day, then you should be up and about just like normal. Good time to catch up on your reading."

Twila Peterson lets out a small sigh, then glances back towards her brother and the two patients...still feeling to shaken to offer much really. Or else...she would be trying to help Seminone. And, actually, she feels badly that she isn't presently able. *sniffle*

Well that takes care of that. "Uh...yeah." Rick manages. Not often they manage to do -this- much for him...not that he's complaining. Systems should have lots of time to rest now. Slowly he rubs his hands off with a rag, before turning back to glance at where Twila still is. Apparently caught up with the demand for the moment, as Seminole is seen to by automated systems, he makes his way back over, dropping the rag in the nearby sink, then gently kneeling next to Twila, reaching out with one hand to softly touch her shoulder. He doesn't say anything right now, just watches her quietly, as if trying to gauge for himself how well she is right now.

Twila Peterson presses her lips tightly together, grateful for the contact even though not in the frame of mind to be able to express it outwardly. "My aunt and uncle asked me to come for a visit since it's been awhile. Since I had free time, I thought I'd go. It...didn't go well at all," she ponders just above a whisper.

Rick Morgan gives a quiet, "Oh..." at that, apparently finding that explanation enough as it is. His gaze falls to the floor for a few moments before he brings it back up to settle on Twila once more. "I'm sorry..." he offers in a much lower voice, feeling somewhat responsible for the whole deal in itself in that respect. Some of it may have been about the new membership in the Hunters, but wasn't some of it relating to himself as well for that matter?

Twila may not be able to readily say or admit to it at the moment, but indeed it was. Verbally she stays silent on the matter. But Rick can probably feel that yes, he was a part of the reason for the fight. Of course, there were several other reasons involved as well...some concerning the Maverick Hunters as a whole, and some concerning particulars. In short, "Think I know how you feel know about...being disowned..." she murmurs as if somewhat lost.

Rick Morgan gives another sigh, tilting his head down for just a moment. Then, he reaches out and places both hands around Twila's opposite shoulder, gently drawing her forward and letting his chin touch the top of her head. "It does hurt..." he offers gently. "...with how it happens that way. Differing views...or opinions. How they can drive people apart. Twila I'm sorry...sorry this had to happen to you. I hoped...I hoped beyond anything that it wouldn't."

The girl gently shakes her head as she holds in a shudder. "I guess...the views and opinions were...just too different. Chris took me outside while his folks...when hr felt it best if everyone calmed down. Bass, he...made an appearance soon after that," the latter being barely heard.

And that part is of course...history by now. Rick knows just what happened what with what he heard, and he proceeds to give a small nod at that. "Yeah...that would make it really rough." He offers gently. Of course there's that own desire that he has to go in and tell them his OWN story. That desire to go in and take his own shot at smacking a bit of sense into people...starting with none other than Chris perhaps. But at the same time, respect for Twila's feelings. It's a mix-match of emotions right about now. At that, he proceeds to sit out and gather Twila fully into his arms, gently rocking her form back and forth. "You know I'll never turn my back on you..."

Twila Peterson releases a sob as she rests there against her brother, clinging to him rather tightly. "P--promise?" she stammers, feeling rather vulnerable just about now. Deep inside she knows he won't. It would be impossible for him to do so, just as it would be impossible for her to ever turn her back on him.

But sometimes it helps to hear it just the same....as a reaffirmation for the already obvious. "I promise Twila," he returns with no measure of doubt, pressing his cheek gently to the top of her head. "Always."

Twila's hands tighten their grip they hold as her breathing again returns to normal. "Thanks, Rick," she tells him, voice still strained. "I promise too. We'll always be brother and sister."

Rick Morgan can't help but smile faintly at that. Even in all of the hard times...it's a moment of assurance. A shining beacon so to speak, and he can all but grab onto that stability as it's spoken once more. "I know we will..." he whispers. "...and I'm glad of it."