Megaman - Saturday, December 16, 2000, 4:01 PM
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Commercial District <Neo-Tokyo>

Dawn skids to a halt near a traffic light, turning to the voice...and apparently doesn't recognize Bradley at all. A quick nod and grin, then Dawn darts over and produces another cane, offering it. "Sure. Got plenty of these to go 'round..."

Bradley Williams takes the candy. "Thanks..." He tilts his head. "Just curious, but why you goin round offerin candy while wearing some lame outdated outfit?" He blinks then stares at the candy suspiciously. "Are you a Maverick?"

"Thanks," Twila bids and overhears a familiar voice from outside...not hard since the two weren't that far from the door. "Looks like one of the other Hunters trying to give the spirit," she states after looking through the window. "Looks like Dawn...one of the new recruits."

"Hmm?" Genzuke looks out from over Twila's shoulder at the reploid in question. "Ah, I see." He smiles. "She definately appears to have more than enough of it to go around."

Michael Eildath blinks, and starts walking over, not close enough to hear the pair talking.

Twila Peterson quirks a brow. "The guy with her looks a lil familar...although always hard to tel in over-sized cities."

Dawn is apparently oblivious to Genzuke, Twila, or Mike being nearby right now, focused on talking with Bradley. A confused expression is present for a moment, then replaced by a quick laugh. "Maverick? No...not unless City Hall didn't tell me somethin' a while back that they shoulda. Just spreadin' th' spirit right now, is all. Might be a little cold, but it should still taste fine." Doesn't seem to be offended in the least at being asked if she's a Mav...

Genzuke Hayawazaki nods and watches the reploid and the human for a moment, before looking to Twila once again. "Why don't we go say hello to her?"

Bradley Williams frowns. "Either you're a liar or you have a bug. Spreading cheer? Ha! Yeah right, clever cover. Does this candy have some kind of biological agent in it? This is low, even for Mavericks."

Twila Peterson offers a nod. If it is who she thinks it is...might be a weel to do. "Good idea," she tells her new friend and makes the rest of the way down the isle and then out of the store while wating for him. When she gets closer...she notices that it is who she first thought...just about anyway. "Williams?" she questions within hearing distance."

Bradley Williams practically jumps as Twila catches him off guard. "Ah!"
Genzuke Hayawazaki follows quietly behind Twila, just a few feet behind her as they walk out of the store.

Dawn hmms, still quite amiable in expression "Well...they have been rather active this holiday season, true. But...do you have a medical scanner? Check it out with that if you want. I'd offer to let you use mine, but if you're thinkin' this is some Maverick poison, you'd probably figure I'd recalibrated the scanner, right?"

As Twila approaches, she turns and asks "Williams? Are you lookin' for someone?" Either way, she waves to the approaching pair of Twila and Genzuke...and if visible now, Mike too, then peers back to Bradley. "Something wrong?"

Michael Eildath blinks again as he walks up to Bradley. "What are you two talking about?"

Twila Peterson offers in small introduction, "Hi, Dawn. Uh...this is Genzuke who I just met." She adds, "Uh...just noticed you...talking with Mr. Williams here and just wanted to say hi..."

Bradley Williams sighs and looks to Twila and Mike, his hand clutched over his heart as if having a heart attack. "Oh, it's just you..." He eyes Mike. "And you." Then back to Twila. "Usually only cops call me Williams." He lets her figure that out while Bradley points a finger to Dawn. "Well, both of you are -Maverick- hunters. There's a Maverick, hunt her!"

Bradley Williams blinks. "Dawn?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki smiles with genuine politeness and gives a slight nod of acknowledgment to the reploid. "Nice to meet you, Dawn."

Michael Eildath facepalms. "She's not a Maverick, she's one of our recruits."
Twila Peterson gives a quick nod towards the approaching Mike and then back to the upstart of a young man. "Nicknamed 'Chipper'." She won't explain why. "Why did you think she was a Maverick?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki glances about at Michael and Bradley, then back to Twila. He smiles, clueless as to the identity of the two guys, but pleased to make their acquaintance just the same. "Are these also friends of yours, Twila?"

Bradley Williams frowns at Mike and Twila. "That explains it. She was handing out candy! Nobody hands out candy... don't you know ye aint s'posed to take candy from strangers?"" He turns to Dawn, eyeing her up and down. "So yer the newest addition to team weird eh greenhorn?"

Twila Peterson nods towards Gensuke then gestures. "One of them is. This is Michael Eidelth, also with us Hunters. And this is Bradley Williams....which I'm not certain what to say about."

Dawn /still/ isn't offended, but is surprised at all the attention, visibly so. "Uhhh...yeah. I'm one of the newer Hunters. Still do some stuff on the side for City Hall though. They handed me a load of this stuff and asked me to go hand it out. Call 'em up if you like, they'll tell ya that's how it is, Mr. Williams" A quick wave to Genzuke, "Ah, you too, Mr...?" Apparently she didn't catch the name, but another candy cane is withdrawn and held out for him.

Bradley Williams gives a fake smile towards Gen. "Hi, I'm an insurance agent." A paper in the wind smacks on Brad's face, on it... wierd enough, is Brad's face! Underneath in large print is the word 'WANTED'. The young man quickly crumbles it up and chuckles innocently.

Bradley Williams says, "Someone really oughta clean up all this litter."

Michael Eildath frowns as Bradley spouts off lies, and starts moving over towards his brother.

Genzuke Hayawazaki smiles amiably at Dawn, returning the wave politely and nodding. "Genzuke Hayawazaki."

Twila Peterson sticks her hands within her pockets, perking an eyebrow towards Williams, "So what bring you to Tokyo, Bradley," she questions while Dawn and Gensuke become aquatinted.

Genzuke Hayawazaki blinks incredulously at Bradley, quirking a brow. "...?" He turns to Michael and nods as well with a polite smile, a bit overwhelmed but doing his best to navigate the sudden deluged of introductions. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Eildath."

Bradley Williams smiles mischieviously at Twila. "Do you -really- want to know?"
Dawn nods quickly...and while usually informal, especially around Hunters, old habits resurface. The Hunter rookie quickly makes a light bow, "Honored to meet you, Mr. Hayawazaki. Enjoying the shopping 'round here?" By now she's largely disregarded Bradley, perhaps for the best.

Michael Eildath places a hand on Brad's shoulder. "I think we should leave these people to their Christmas cheer, Mr. 'Williams'."

Genzuke Hayawazaki grins and nods, smiling happily at Dawn. "Oh, yeah. I always have." He chuckles softly. "If there's one thing that's always fun about Tokyo, it's the sheer volume of things one can spend money on."

Bradley Williams looks rather oddly over to Dqwn and her 'cheer'. "Please!"

Twila Peterson hmmmms. As Mike tries to draw his brother away she whistles underneath her breath. "You're right...prolly best..." What a creep.

Dawn hmms, rising now...and looking around from various buildings, then back to Genzuke. "Right, guess that's true. What were you lookin' for, anyhow? Anything in particular?"

Michael Eildath points toward the world's largest McDonald's. "C'mon, Bradley, let's grab a bite to eat."

Bradley Williams nods.

Genzuke Hayawazaki shakes his head. "Nope, not especially. Just checking out the stores and seeing what's new."

Bradley Williams stops while walking beside his brother, he spies the small crowd suspiciously. "What's up over there? More holiday cheer from your A-team?"

Twila Peterson turns to the others while the two brothers move away. "Certainly alot of things out. I was looking for a gift for Rick. Um...don't tell him ok?"

Michael Eildath shrugs. "Dawn's... a bit hyperactive. That's all. C'mon."

Dawn ahhs, still with an all-too-present grin, "Cool. Well, guess that's part of the fun. 'Least, that's how most folks consider it." A quick nod to Twila, "Don't tell Rick...about what, mmm?"

Bradley Williams has a -real- wierd feeling eminating from the gathering. "Wait... does this remind you of anything?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki smiles at Dawn, sticking his hands into the pockets of his jacket and shifting his weight slightly from foot to foot. "So you're with the Maverick Hunters as well, Dawn?"

Michael Eildath blinks. "No, not really... why?"

The Hunter medic withholds a snerk. "That I was looking for Rick's gift," she grins.

Bradley Williams eyes Mike. "Remember how you and I first... met?"

Michael Eildath narrows his eyes. "What, dragging your bleeding body to a hospital after a riot, then finding out my thirteen-years dead brother was still alive?" He grimaces. "... I remember."

Dawn seems a little curious at the question Genzuke puts forth, but nods. "Yeah, it's neat. Not that I'm all that great at it yet, but hey." To Twila now, "He probably knows already, but alright, I know nothing, /nothing/!"

The shadows near the teleporter begin to gather, shifting and gaining dimension. They swirl, forming shape, forming a darkness greater than they experienced during their lives as shadows. From the blackmass steps a dark man, waist-cloak trailing behind him. Despite the season he doesn't wear a shirt, nor does he so much as tremble. "Tis the season, war to war. The deceptive illusion of peace so easily quelled. Washed away by the glorious hatred and the imminent violence. Oh, I can smell it. Here, so near to the Hunters, where virtue runs strongest, even here. Oh fine champions of peace. Let us play a requiem for you." The dark man smiles to himself and begins to walk down the street.

Genzuke Hayawazaki grins sheepishly, waving a hand with a dismissive gesture. "It's okay. Twila was telling me a little about you. I think it sounds pretty exicting, to be honest. I'd love to join the Hunters someday."

Bradley Williams smirks. "Yes, but I mean... the riot specifically. I regret a lot of things, that riot was one of them. I intentionally riled up my audience... and if I had shut my yap, a lot of humans wouldn't have gotten hurt that day. Of course, I had some help... but... there's this new guy recently I've seen in the news. I dunno. I hear that cop's have instinct..." He gives his sibling a strange look. "Crooks have them too."

Twila Peterson blinks innocently in response. Actually, Rick doesn't know...least not at the moment. She smiles and dips her chin towards Dawn. "You're doing just fine...least from what I've seen..." she compliments, not noticing the cult leader aways away.

But a little girl does as she holds on to her mother's hand as the cyborg passes by. "Mamma, won't he catch the snifflies?" she asks, pointing until her mother drags her away.

Michael Eildath nods, pausing at the doorway to the McDonald's. "Yeah... what have you heard?"

Dawn hmms...and in an amazing display of anti-ego, nods quickly to Genzuke. "I'll bet ya have a pretty good chance of it. After all, they recruited me. Whatcha good at, Genzuke?" A nod to Twila, "Uh, thanks. Hey..." Peering towards the teleporters, she asks whilst walking over to Kaust, "Ain't that guy gonna catch cold? For the love of..." Seems she doesn't recognize the riot inciter yet.

Twila Peterson peers towards where the reploid points and blinks a coupld of times, standing up a little starighter. "Oh, no..." she offers by way of a groan.
"Well, I suppose I'm a pretty decent engineer," Genzuke replies to Dawn with a soft smile. "It's the sort of work I love most, at least. I work for the United Nations right now, mostly traveling all over, working out in the field." He blinks and turns to Twila with a look of quiet concern, hearing her groan. "Everything okay, Twila?" he asks.

Bradley Williams halts with Michael. "That... that man..."

Kaust Losstaret walks, almost floats forward, "What is required here... is some dissention to shatter their perfect harmony. They are only a threat to my plans if they can work harmoniusly. It's only a matter of picking their minds apart, piece by piece. All I need is a place to begin." The cyborg's enhanced vision zooms forward, picking up two familiar figures. Michael Eildath the Hunter... but the one with him Kaust vaguely remembers from one of his most recent rallies, one who approached him in the chaos. "Perfect."

Michael Eildath blinks, and turns.

Bradley Williams blinks as Kaust eyes him, something very dark about this individual. A hauntingly eerie atmosphere that seems to follow Kaust. Bradley squints. "It can't be..."
Dawn stops suddenly, gazing towards Kaust, "...Those eyes." She knows what's about to happen, even if she can't hear his audiable plotting just yet, and continues to walk through the sidewalks towards him. Silent for now, however, but looking none too pleased.

Twila Peterson answers, "He's...Kaust Losserant...a cult leader and head of one of those Human Supremacy groups," to Genzuke, then to Dawn, "He's the one that started those riots in Rio and elsewhere."

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Yay. Just...yay. Mike, bro, want me to show this guy to the teleporters? Don't exactly need a Christmas Riot here...'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'I see him... I'll try and deal with him.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Careful, Mike.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'I'll back ya up. Just got a wonderful idea...'.
(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: 'Uhoh, now what's going on?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Kaust Losserant just showed up.'.
(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: '... Who?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Cult leader and Human Supremecy Leader. Known to insite riots.'.
(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: '*cracks knuckles* Need some crowd control?'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'He'd /want/ 'crowd control'. I've got a wonderful idea...'.

Michael Eildath folds his arms over his chest. "Mr. Losstaret. What brings you to our /peaceful/ little megacity?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki blinks, rubbing the back of his head a little as he looks over at Kaust. "Ne... why would he go and do something like that? People can get hurt in riots."

wila Peterson commments while moving a few steps forward. "He doesn't really seem to care about that much...concerning his past history. I don't he's here to sing carols."

Genzuke Hayawazaki subconciously follows behind Twila, remaing close by her. "How could he not care about someone getting hurt? What if someone he loved got hurt or something?"

Kaust Losstaret smiles, "I've come to celebrate the holiday season, Mr. Eildath. At this magical time of year I always take great pleasure into looking into the soul. Allow me to look into yours," the Dark Man's crimson eyes fix on Mike for a moment, before moving to Bradley. "Curious, curious. I see the same tragedy within you both. The fire behind your eyes.. the loss of family, yes. Terrible, terrible business. And I think I know who's responsible. Machines, filthy creatures, that steal into your homes, killing mother.. father.. anything to create more pain. They destroy life, they destroy happiness, and they destroy hope," The cyborg steps closer, his gaze fixed on Bradley, "But I can return it. I can, once more, bring you hope."

Dawn contines approaching Kaust at a quick walk, and suddenly is /very/ serious in expression. She calls out once near him, "Sir. I'm going to have to ask that you either depart the city immediately, or come with me to the police station. There is reasonable suspicion that you will continue your provocative actions and attempt to incite a riot in the city of Neo Tokyo, and as an employee of such, I am within my authority. If you will, sir?"

Bradley Williams blinks and steps back, a bit of instinct in action to hide behind his brother's shield... but Bradley overcomes this reflex, standing tall and holding the image of strength. He gives a quick glance of confusion to his brother. oO( HOw does he know?)Oo His baffled expression saying all. Brad shakes his head in denial. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Michael Eildath narrows his eyes. "My past is a matter of public record, /Mr./ Losstaret. His I can't vouch for." He scowls. "And as for her, you had best take her advice. We don't take kindly to riot-mongers 'rough here, if you catch my drift."

Twila Peterson sides to Hayawazaki, "He apparently doesn't care about that either. One thing to be wary of...he tries to make it like he knows stuff about you...but he doesn't know as much as he thinks. Try not to listen to wtah he says if he tries to direct it at you..." She then pauses she begins to come into hearing distance of the other group.

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Hey, Mike? Despite what I just said...you're an ex-Cop, correct? Am I within my rights to detain Kaust right now? Or is there any sort of legal-loophole he could use?'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'He's wanted for questioning, that's all. We can threaten him, but we can't really arrest him until the request becomes a warrant.'.
(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: 'If there isn't, I bet he makes one to get out of it anyways.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Bummer.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Wanted for questioning? I'll use that if he doesn't go along nicely, then.'.
(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: 'Right. Be careful.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'There's about a couple thousand reasons to be careful that are around right now, and most of 'em walk on two legs.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'That's it. Mike, would now be a good time to intervene?'.

Genzuke Hayawazaki doesn't really like the sound of any of that, so he approaches Kaust along with Dawn. "Iie, hope is something that comes from within. Everyone has experienced sorrow, so there's no avoiding it. Hope is tempered with compassion. There is no need to fear one's sadness, it is from sadness that we gain the desire for compassion. It just takes courage, ne? You can't just hide behind your fears and sorrows, you have to accept them and stand back up. That's what really makes humans so great; knowing sorrow allows us to also understand compassion."

Kaust Losstaret smiles, stepping closer to Williams, "You do, you do. I can see it in you. You know the truth that these others do not, you see with eyes freed from deception, unlike your brother, who works side by side with the same sort of machines that destroyed your family. I can show you to the truth. I can bring you to a place where you belong, a place where people know and understand your pain. A place where they hate those murderers as much as you. What would that be like, to finally know a home you haven't felt since the Machines stole your original one." Kaust ignores the defenders of Tokyo completely, fixated on his point of persuasion. The dark charisma practically leaks through his skin, and his poisonous words sound sweet as honey. He extends a single, metallic hand to Bradley, "All you have to do is come with me."

Bradley Williams feels a bit of sympathy towards Kaust, Brad was once a riot-monger... but never as powerful as this demagogue. He's seen the power of Kaust's words. A dark charisma with bitter truth intertwined in the message. It was enough to make a man uncomfortable by the way Kaust knew so much... about everything, about people. Brad blinks, about him! Yet, a precarious balance lingering within. Something driving Bradley away, but another force drawing him in... seducing him. The scary thing is, Brad can't tell which force is stronger. But of course, Bradley tries to hide his true emotions. If Bradley is good at anything, he's an excellent liar. "What? I don't know what -ANY- of you are talking about. Since whhen did everyone get philosophical." He even manages to crack a witty comment, to him anyways. "All these big words. I got one for you Mr. Speech, halitosis, yer breath wreaks."

Twila Peterson blurts in a warning, "Losserant, just go back to what ever whole you crawled out from."

(Ch. B [GoodGuy-Central]) Michael Eildath transmits: '... Do it... before I do something I'll regret...'.

Michael Eildath tenses, unable to hide his emotions as clearly as Bradley has learned to. "Mr. Losstaret... I think you've worn out your welcome in this city."

Dawn makes a quick laugh at Bradley's remarks, and nods, now quite close to Kaust. "Sir. Since you're not leaving the city, I can only presume you prefer option 2, being detained until the police arrive. You are wanted for questioning. We can do this real easy, or I can kindly, but firmly, detain you myself. Your call."

Lightning strikes, illuminating the frame of Crash Man who stands high above the building of Golden Arches! You then wonder why there's thunder and lightning at this time in the day.

Genzuke Hayawazaki shakes his head, approaching Kaust and Bradley. "You can't just make generalizations like that!" he says, addressing Kaust directly. "People are individuals. You can't assume that what applies to one applies to all. Some humans are good and some bad, ne? The same is true for Reploids, or for anything else in this world!" He smiles softly, not showing any agression or animosity. "Listen, if there's a problem, I'm sure we can try to help you with it. But going around starting riots is just gonna make more problems."

Michael Eildath thinks dark thoughts about Losstaret, and wonders how he knows about Bradley...

Kaust Losstaret floats into the sky, a dark chuckle rising from his bloodless lips. "I can see through your words as easily as I can see through your soul. Why fight me when you know I speak the truth. Think about it. No longer will you have to flee from your fears. No longer will you have to hide behind your brother. Come with me and I will not only give you hope, family, and a place to call home.. I will give you vengeance. Look into your mind, feel the pain your parents died in, feel the heat that consumed your home, feeling the tears the dripped down your cheek when you realized that you'd never know the touch of your mother and father, never hear their voice, never feel their love again, and look at me, LOOK AT ME, and tell me you don't thirst for revenge against the monsters that robbed you of that! The machines that stole your world and set you to drift in a sea of hopelessness for years. Tell me that you want that to happen to another child, want them to meet your fate. Tell me these things and you will be speaking lies. You can stop the machines from ever doing it again, you can make the souls of your departed parents finally know peace, you can make them all pay for what they have done to you. Come with me, and embrace the truth."

Genzuke Hayawazaki sweatdrops, looking up at Kaust. "I don't think he heard me..."

Twila Peterson narrows her eyes towards the frising madman. "He hears what he wants to hear...nothing else. Just like those who follow him. And I'm pretty sure he uses them for his own ends as well."

Dawn sighs. It's almost hard continuing in light of Kaust's words, but then she turns back to Genzuke. "...You're right, on all accounts. Thanks." Stepping in closer to Kaust, she reaches out to try and grab one of his arms, as forcefully as possible without harming the riot-inciter (Presuming the grab is successful.) "Sir. You have ignored official warnings from a city employee three times now. You are being detained until the police arrive and will be held for questioning." Regardless of if the grab is successful or not, she sends in a quick transmission to the city police, attempting to summon them to the location.

Michael Eildath growls again, /glaring/ at Losstaret. "My parent's didn't die because of those robots, Losstaret, they died because of one mad /HUMAN'S/ quest to rule this planet. If you think you know me as well as that, you know it was Wily's fault this whole mess began. He's the one that had San Angeles destroyed. He killed my family... killed Br... Mr. William's, too, not that it's any of your f$#@*ing business." His hand tenses, and Mike's thoughts flash to several very /dark/ places at once, many of which involved things clearly non-Lawful Good in nature. "Now get the hell OUT of Neo-Tokyo, or I shall take you out by force!"

Genzuke Hayawazaki blinks at Dawn's sudden attempt to apprehend Kaust, and steps back, not really wanting to get in the way of a city officer performing her duty. He sighs and heads back to join Twila. "Well, I tried," he tell her, with a shrug and an apologetic smile.

Bradley Williams takes Several steps back, now this man was really getting under his skin. "Stop it... stop it... just shuddup! I can't think with you rambling on... just shudup." His eyes remaining locked onto the ground. He can't look, he musn't. Something about that man. Something, but there isn't a word for it. Whatever it is... it isn't, -right-. What is it? He looks up to find out... a horrible mistake. He looks up in time to see Kaust being engaged by Dawn. "No, leave him alone! He hasn't even done anything!" Drawing his side arm, he points at Dawn. "Stop it! Yer assuming, like I assumed you were a maverick... which you -could- be!"

"Hmph," the Holy Bomber remarks to himself high up from the McDonald's rooftop. "They think themselves so high and mighty down below, not worrying about the looming threat of 'Robot Masters,' or anything so dastardly as that. Well then, House Atreides, let's see if you sing the same tune when Crash Man crashes this party.."

Crash Man wiggles his fingers in the air for a moment, before raising both arms high. His digits wriggle once more, before he brings his hands down on the spot just below his solar plexus. The crotch-chop cues an assault of green and black fireworks that are shot up, and erupt in the midnight sky. The Robot Master continues for the second, and third time. The pyrotechnics continue, providing the deafening cacophony of this android god's mad decree. Look at him, biznatch! He is truly the king of the world!

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: '...Y'gotta be kidding me.'.

Michael Eildath blinks, and acts lightning fast, reaching into his jacket with both arms still crossed. He pulls out two weapons from dual shoulder holsters... a laser pistol and a service revolver. The revolver he starts to raise toward Kaust... but it halts. The laser pistol swings past Brad... and towards his weapon. "Drop the gun, Bradley. She isn't the enemy here."

He pauses as he note Crash Man's appearance... but he's only got two hands.

"Leave them alone, Lossaret. Just pack up your lies and held elsewhere. We don't want what you did to ruin other cities and other lives to happen here!" Twila shouts. And, uncharacteristic of her, she draws out her Taser and, it may not be much of a wepon it is more than a handslap...

Crash Man holds his arms back in the air in victory. Who's the man!? Crash MAN, is.

(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: 'That bad out there?'.

Genzuke Hayawazaki frets a little at the sudden outbreak of violence, frowning. "Erm." He sighs. "Twila! Bradley! Stop it! Let Dawn do her job, okay?!"

Bradley Williams looks up at Crash Man while the Master provides a a rather impromptu distraction. Wierd how things work out that way. "Robots... machines... everywhere, Mike... he's right. Just look! Look damnit, you're pointing a gun at ME! AT ME MIKE! Look at how they have corrupted you... he's right! Somebody has to stop them Mike, help me stop them... put the gun down."
The streets of Neo Tokyo are as always, crowded as ever...

And through that crowd walks a figure, not standing to high above the rest of the populous. He doesnt give any signs of being anything out of the ordinary, but he is someone most people here will recognize. A face shaped ALMOST perfectly, clear and unblemished, with sapphire blues gazing out from under thick brows. His hair is thick, brown, and messy -- fashionably messy. A small silver hoop adorns his left earlobe, and his body covered in civvie garb... white jeans, black hi-tops, a brown belt, and a blue tank top that shows off his decently muscled form.

He happens to be coming up through the crowd, his eyes immediatly drawn to just what is going on with the small crowd to the side."

Rock then looks to Kaust, his voice taking on a calm, almost depressed voice. "Kuso... It's you... I hoped you died in the Star's fall... no luck for even that..."

Kaust Losstaret floats out of Dawn's reach just in the nick of time, her hands sliding through the air just beneath Kaust's toes. Then Twila leaps at him with her taser. This town has never been very recptive towards him. He has less followers here than in any of the other Mega-Cities. Living close to the Hunter has a way of keeping you faithful to the virtue of the artificial race. Fortunately Kaust is much more than a man and, for all of Twila's purity and heroism, she is still just a woman. The cultist blinks out of existence, the taser passing through nothing but the air previously occupied by the cyborg, appearing behind Brad. He puts a gentle, reassuring hand on the man's shoulder. "They're so quick to betray you for the machines," whispers the dark man, "So quick to take the side of the abominations that murdered your family. She could be a Maverick, and your own brother draws a weapon at you to prevent you from coming to the aid of a fellow human. This is what they have done to us, but we can save them from the artificials, we can save your brother, but not today. Come with me, Mr. Williams, talk with me. You may not agree with what I have to say, but let us leave this machine-infested city. Let us go to a place where we can discuss matters in peace. Away from these monsters, to a safe place where I can show you that every word I have spoken has been truthful." Kaust flicks his eyes up to Crash Man, "Or would you rather stay here, with them."

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: '...Monsters? Man. I'd deck him, but it'd only prove him right...'.

Genzuke Hayawazaki sighs. "Why is everyone acting like children...?"

Michael Eildath glares at Bradley. "I'm not the one who's corrupted. He's the one trying to corrupt you. You're not a bad person, Brad. Kaust is. He's using your hate for the Robot Masters, the hate that almost got me killed, the hate you said you'd lost, against you." He glares at Kaust, and his service revolver begins to raise. "I don't want to shoot you, I never will, but you drew a gun on one of the good guys." Mike pleads. "You're my brother, Bradley... you know what he's saying is wrong. The robots aren't our enemies. If we can't put aside the hate we're no good to anyone." His eyes tear up. "LOOK at me. I lived thinking you were dead... I won't have you as an enemy. I love you, Brad, even after all this time. Just look inside yourself. Feeding on your hate won't solve anything." Mike stands there. "Please... listen to me."

Twila Peterson draws her weapon down, having missed it's mark. Not that it really would have harmed the cyborg any anyway...it merely would have given a small jolt and interrupted his systems just enough for Dawn to be able to place him in custody...hopefully. Curssed telepotation prowess of his. She draws a breath and places the taser away, merely asking, "What does you're heart tell you, Bradley?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki nods solemnly, stepping up into the midst of Michael, Bradly and Kaust. "Hai.. look, if you've really got so much pent-up rage, and you don't know what do to with it, just come over here and beat me up, and when you're finally calmed down, we can talk about it rationally. I won't be angry. If it'll help you, that's what matters."

Bradley Williams breathes heavily, sweating, nervious, afraid... what the hell is going on? His brother, pointing a gun at him of all people. He must escape from this madness, all of it is just so overwhelming. Peace... yes, it would be nice to find peace for once. Williams drops his gun, he grabs onto his own hair as if losing his mind. "I don't know -WHO- to trust... just take me out of here. Make it stop." He falls to his knees infront of Kaust and looks up at the opaque darkness that shrouds Losstaret. With a pleading expression, Bradley surrenders himself to the demagogue. "Just... make it stop, make it go away!"

Dawn sighs as she ends her lunge-grab attempt in failure. "Hmph." As Bradley draws a pistol, she peers at it, and states, "Put it away. Now. Before I rip the barrel out. You can't just go waving guns 'round in public unless it's in defense of self or others, and I /am/ within my authority in this city. Not as a Hunter. As a duly endorsed and designed employee of Neo Tokyo." Since Kaust is so near to Bradley, she addresses him next. "If you're calling me a murderer, fine. But when you're calling the rest of the family that...we've got problems. Time and time again on the news, Repliforce and the Hunters /protect people/, /Humans/ as well as Reploids. Your rhetoric and the facts just don't match up..."

(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'This is not boding well.'.

Genzuke Hayawazaki sighs. "...Maybe I'm invisible today..."

The Blue Bomber stands there, listening to the words of Kaust... his eyes narrowing. "Up to your old trick's Kaust? Bah! Don't listen to him, everyone! He is a stage magician and a monster... not to mention a Creature of Dr. Wily. Funny... I bet he is more then trying to /USE/ Wily to his own ends. Hah! Wily will chew you up and spit you out when he is done with you, Losstaret!"

Rock then looks to Bradley and Mike intently, his eyes opening wide as he listens to the words being spoken, then speaks quickly. "Dont listen to Kaust here. He is a Cyborg and a puppet of Dr. Wily... as for everything... You know me... you know who I am. I don't lie. I fight for peace and freedom and every being on this planet... That one up there." Rock raises an arm and points to Kaust... "Will feed you lies, hatred, and pain... Whatever is going on here... I think I have someone to remove."

The Blue Bomber turns, looking up to Kaust Losstaret. "Hey! Kaust! You and I have some unfinished business!"

With that... blue light surround the figure of the Blue Bomber... and he becomes... Mega Man!

Twila Peterson takes a breath in commets to the civilian. "Somehow I doubt rational conversation is what Kaust has in mind," she bites out.

Genzuke Hayawazaki sighs, turning away and going back to check on Dawn. "I tried.." he says with an apologetic smile. "I wish I could do more."

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Dont worry everyone. Kaust wont be playing any more games if I have any thing to say about it.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Rock, if you start firing, it's gonna be all over the news, and he's gonna look /so/ justified with all his ramblings.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Careful Rock, Bradley's at a breaking point I think.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Dont worry. I wont fire.'.

Crash Man holds his arms up, opened wide as if he'd embrace a stranger. The Holy Bomber's voice becomes more of a southern drawl, as if he was some manner of late-night televangelist. "That's right. WHO IS THE MAN with the PLAN? It's NONE OTHER than the CRASH MAN! Step right up, and get a DAILY DOSE OF LUV from your DIONYSIAN ANDROID GOD-ENTITY." Crash Man points to himself, and none other. "Which WOULD BE ME, CRASH MAN."

Our hero holds his arms at the people down below, his thumbs pointing at them. "Now you MAY ask, what CAN YOUR CRASH MAN DO for YOU!? The answer, my FRIENDS, is ask NOT what your CRASH MAN CAN DO for YOU, but ask what YOU can DO for YOUR CRASH MAN." His hands clap together, sending another barrage of fireworks up into the air.

Just then, the Holy One's mad emerald gaze befalls that of one Blue Bomber, Mega Man. "Well, well, WELL. What DO WE HAVE HERE? It's the OPPRESSOR and HARBINGER of your DAMNATION, the Blue Bomber MAN. Look at HIM, picking on a POOR and DEFENSELESS human BE-YING. Is the 'Blue Bomber Man' not the most WEAKEST and PATHETIC thing you've EV-AAAAAH SEEN!? Can I GET AN AMEN!?!"

Mingled with the crowd, a group of Beer Joes shout back an amplified, "AMEN!
Long distance to Genzuke Hayawazaki: Twila Peterson patpats. You just witnessed the second time in over 1 1/2 yrs that Twi ever pulled out her taser :-)

Michael Eildath swings both guns at Kaust... and unlike Rock, he looks about crazy enough to do it. "Bradley, DON'T. Don't go with him. He stands against everything we hold dear, everything we both used to believe in." Tears stream from his eyes. "Bradley Eildath, Bradley Williams, whatever you call yourself now, don't throw your life away on some madman's ramblings!"

(Ch. B [Hunter/RF]) Ice Unicorn transmits: 'Glad it's you out there and not me. I probably would of shot him by now'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'Mike... Calm down. It will be all right. Kaust is a madman, and a monster. He works for Dr. Wily and is an ally to the Masters.'.

Twila Peterson attention is first drawn from the scene to another one brewing nearby. Great....Crash Man. She just...um...facepalms. "I shoulda mail ordered..."

Enker blinks as he looks around the corner of a building, too confused to reply.

Kaust Losstaret smiles at the man before him. He places a hand on Bradley's head, smoothing his hair back. He looks up at X, "Not today, machine. Today I have a soul to save." His eyes once again return to the broken Mr. Williams, "Yes, I'll make it all go away. Soon, we will make it all go away. Together we shall show the world your pain. Let us go now. We shall return here, one day, and set your brother free as well." Darkness begins to swirl around the pair as the shadows seem to rise in a whirlwind about them. The dark man's eyes glow bright red, crimson piercing the solid shadows. And terrible laughter rises from the cultist, "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHA!!!" the shadows draw tighter around the two men, emitting a piercing din, enveloping both their bodies. Finally the tempest dissipates, and both Kaust and Bradley William are gone. But a voice whispers in Michael Eildath's ears. It is cold, mettalic and utterly inhuman, but something about it speaks the true identity of its owner, Kaust Losstaret.

"You've lost, Michael. Your brother is mine, and soon he shall stand by my side while I give this world the future it deserves."

Michael Eildath's eyes widen as the two disappears. "Bradley, NO!" He walks forward, firing his gun into the space where Kaust once was, emptying the clip into the air... then it drops from his hands, along with the laser pistol. "NOOOOOOOOOO!"

Bradley Williams disappears with Kaust, the last image of Brad, a broken man on his knees.

The Blue Bomber glares up at Kaust Losstaret, his eyes opening wide the instant he begins to vanish, glaring darkly at Kaust. "NO! LOSSTAAAAAAAARRRREEEEETTTT!!!!" Rock /LAUNCHES/ himself forward for that shadow, attempting to try and tackle Kaust to the ground... but to no avail. He hardly notices Crash's works and appearance, his eyes turning solid white for only an instant... then returning to normal as he flies /through/ where Kaust once was, rolling and fliping through the air to catch himself on the far wall... hearing the sounds of the glip unloading where Kaust was. Mike too it seems... was too late... Rock only clings there for the wall for a moment, before bringing his arm back and /SLAMS/ it against the wall, leaving a small impact crater. "SHIMATTA!"

Rock leaps down, spinning and looking back to where they once where... his eyes returned to normal. But then he looks up and towards Crash Man... his eyes narrowing. He speaks in deadly calm words. "Get out... of my... city..."

(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'What's going on that's so important that naptime must be disturbed?'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'On the bright side...at least a riot didn't break out.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '... That... is a thing to be glad about.'.

Enker questions Crash's motives at pretending to be a deity. Could he possibly be betraying Wily? Could he be... committing heresy? Well, he is posing as one of the lesser Greek deities. And a civilian on our side is a civilian on our side.

Genzuke Hayawazaki returns to Dawn's side. "Are you okay, Dawn?"

Dawn nods immediately to Genzuke. "Completely unharmed. 'Least he's gone now. Riots probably won't happen. But..." A quick peer to Rock, then Crash, and she adds, "But I think fireworks are about to begin. I would definately suggest heading home."

Twila Peterson just...stands there frozen as Michael's brother chooses the unthinkable...and only hopes he can somehow be regained back for her fellow Hunter's sanity. While some others tend to the interlopers she makes ehr way over towards the man...not knowing what to say. "Mike?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki nods a little in agreement. "Hai, I just hope no one gets hurt. Mind if I join you, Dawn?"

Michael Eildath simply stands there, hand still held like he would be holding a gun, finger flexing as if he were still firing.

BEHOLD! Crash Man extends his fore digit, and points it straight at Mega Man. Revere, puny mortals, as the Holy Bomber lays down JUDGMENT! "..."

"MEGA MAN .. NO BAKA!" *THWOOM!* The heavens thunder under such weighty words.

Our hero's hand tightens up to a fist; his palm rising upwards. "Until such time you challenge me for a battle in the squared circle, you shall gain NO LOVE from your friendly neighborhood god, Crash Man. I have bestowed the MADDEST of ALL SHYSTS upon thee. And unless your yellow-bellied butt doesn't wrestle me, expect to be further embarrassed in front of your girlfriend the Black n' Decker toaster. Yeah, I saw the pictures, Buckeroo Bonzai. Toodles."

Crash Man gives Mega Man the finger, before doing another crotch chop, sending another load of fireworks into the air. When the smoke clears, the Holy Bomber is gone! You see, he didn't have to take that, so he's going home.

Twila Peterson stares...openly at the Master as...once he's there, next he's not. In either case, good riddance. She sets her jaw and grumps. What a day for shopping this is turning out to be. Turning back towards Michael she lays a hand on his shoulder, not knowing if any comfort would, or even could be offered right about now. "Want us to escort you back to the labs?"

The Blue Bomber only shakes his head, his eyes narrowing... "...Bakayarou Crash..." Rock gazes up to him, listening to his words for only an instant, shaking his head as he vanishes with his usual drama. Rock /really/ must learn how he does that. Rock then turns his gaze to the others... his eyes turning pure white for an instant, and his gaze /snaps/ towards where Enker hides behind a corner. "... Out."

Rock only speaks that one word, before turning and walking for the others, his eyes turning to mike, instantly returning to normal and his face turning worried and compassionate... "Mike... Mike... Come on, buddy. Let's get you out of here."

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '... Whoever is in the Labs... Prep the Med bay for an incoming patient. No serious physical injuries. Mental... may be another matter entirely...'.

Twila Peterson slightly winces and kneels beside the man, then glances towards Rock... "I think...he'll need a little help."

Rock's words send a jolt through Enker. He doesn't know how he found him, but it would be cowardly and dishonorable to leave now. He steps out from behind the corner, weapon in hand. "So you've found me, Mega Man. I'm wandering about your city. What are you going to do about it?"

Dawn sighs, looking around a bit, realizing the crowds are starting to thin out. "Genzuke may have the right idea." Then Mike falls over, and she dashes over to crouch by him. "Ugh. Mike, wake up..."

Genzuke Hayawazaki crouches down next to Twila and Mike, looking prepared to help her out. "Here, mind if I lend a hand?"

Twila Peterson then blinks as Enker makes his enterance known. Terriffic. Another one. She remains by Mike as Dawn and the civilian come over to see what they can do as well. "Come on, Mike...helps us out here," she says as she gently turns him over. She nods towards the other two. "Couldn't hurt. And now with more company...we should get him back ASAP. She also wants to check his heart...seeing as how he has had a case or two when there was a problem in the past.

The Blue Bomber walks forward, after watching Mike collapse... his eyes closing and a sigh coming from him. Rock looks to Twila and nods. "Yes... he is..." Rock... knows all about what it is like to have Brothers... and what can happen. He has gone through every scenario a thousand times personally. Rock then pauses, noting Enker's full emergence and words... before he looks to Dawn. "Get Mike back to the labs and into the Med Bay. He is going to need a long rest after this. ...I am afraid however... it has only just begun." Rock sighs softly, looking full of concern to Mike...

Then Rock turns his gaze, looking to Enker with narrowed eyes. "Take a hint. Leave. Kaust has done his work... and Crash has been a nuisance. Get... out... of my... City." Rock has, as one can tell, been put in a very bad mood

Dawn backs off now, realizing Genzuke and Twila can get Mike up just fine, she'd be in the way. "I don't think Enker's leaving. Better go, quick, you two. See ya at the labs."

A figure who has been watching the scene, silently approaches Mike and Twila, "Miss Peterson? Do you require any assistance?" The figure (which now can be seen as Kain) speaks, looking down at Mike's wounds and winces inwardly. Outwardly, he seems rather stoic.

Michael Eildath just sits there.

Contrary to Mega Man's command, Enker instead walks toward the Blue Bomber. He wears a neutral expression on his face. "What you refer to as 'your city' is in fact no such thing. Your presence here is quite transient, as you shall soon learn. However, at the moment, the advantage is yours. It would be foolish to remain." Enker gives Rock a polite bow before turning and walking away. "I bid you good night, Mega Man."

(Ch. A [Hunter-Main]) Rock transmits: 'You know... I usualy /don't/ hit humans... but for Kaust... I am going to make an exception'.
(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Hit him once for me will ya?'.

Twila Peterson nods towards the civilian as well as Dawn as she weaves her hands under Mike's frame. "Yeah...I'm ready." She moves one of the man's arms over her shoulders starts to move upwards. "On the count of three?" She then proceeds as she's approached from behind. "Long story, Kain. Mike needs to be gotten back to base. And he's not doing well on his own right now..."

Dawn smacks a closed fist against an open palm, calling out to Enker, "Best run /real/ fast, pal. You've got a lot of nerve talkin' to him like that. And even more with just walkin' 'round like y'own th' place." She makes no move to attack, but seems ready to about to if Enker remains too long...

Kain merely nods and helps with Mike. In respect to Enker, all he offers is a brief glare at him. Nothing more, nothing less.

Genzuke Hayawazaki nods to Twila, sliding his own arms under Mike to support his weight as he prepares to stand. "Okay... one, two...three." He stands up slowly, lifting Mike's prone body up with Twila's assistance.

(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Prepping!'.

Michael Eildath isn't stopping people from helping him, but he isn't exactly being helpful. He's gone.

The Blue Bomber only glares at Enker as he walks foward, listening to his words and nodding. "Smart move. Enker. Good night. Give my regards to Wily." Rock watches Enker leave, nodding slowly... If Enker is anything... he is Intelligent.

Commander X then turns, looking back to the others... pausing as he spies Kain. He offers him a nod, and a soft smile... before he makes his way towards Mike swiftly, looking to the others. "Here, Take it easy... if anything... I can carry him." Rock then looks to Mike, reaching foward and puting a hand on his shoulder... "Don't worry, Mike... Brad will be all right... we will get him back... I promise..."

Dawn nods once as Enker really does walk off. "Very good..." Seeing as Mike is well in hand, she turns to Kain and begins to walk over, and looks a little curious, perhaps worried. "Hey, you were in the burn ward earlier at Namura, you alright now?"

"No problem, we've got him." Genzuke smiles a little to Rock, nodding a bit. "Thanks anyway. You've done more than enough to help, and I'd like to lend a hand as well."

Rock nods to Kain... "Yeah... Kaust Losstaret... he... took him." Rock pauses as he recieves a radio transmission... his eyes changing... going a blank, pure, and even softly glowing white. The glow akin to that of the Yin Cipher... He is silent for a long moment...

Kain looks at Dawn as he helps with Mike, "I'm recovering," He states simply.

"But I'm well enough to help."

Twila Peterson allows Rock to take the man...and sighs a little as her shoulder's are free of his weight. "Yeah....Mike's brother. Lossaret came here and persuaded him to go." She starts heading towards her hoverbike parked within a lot of one of the stores. "I'll make sure things are ready back at the base." With a pause she nods towards Genuske. "Again...nice meeting you and thanks for the help."

(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Rock...you alright? You're eyes just went all white.'.
(Ch. A [Hunter-Main]) Rock transmits: '... I know... It's... something new. Don't worry...'.
(Ch. A [Rock]) Twila Peterson transmits: 'I worry anyway,...you know that.'.

Dawn blinks, noting the sudden glows. "If you say so. But...what's with the lighting, you two? Something wrong? What's up?"

Rock closes his eyes, shaking his head slowly as he reaches foward and takes Mike tenderly into his arms... After a moment, he opens his eyes... and they are normal once more, and the glow is gone. He looks then to Kain... "... Is this going to happen often?"

Rock then looks to Dawn and the others, sighing. "Lets go, everyone. Mike needs to get to the Med Bay. Now."

Kain shakes his head, "Not all the time. Mostly when you're stressed or when, the Yin is trying to tell you something bad is about to happen."

Twila Peterson pauses, overhearing that. "What do you mean by something bad?"
Rock groans slightly, rolling his head back... "So... all the time..." Rock only shakes his head, and looks to Twila... "Just... dealing with Kaust. Dont worry."

Michael Eildath hears nothing. He's miles away. Whee.

Dawn looks back at Rock, then to Kain. "He says something's wrong, bro. I'll take a look around, ok? Medbay's all ready, so while everyone else is lookin' after Mike, I'll figure out what's up."

Genzuke Hayawazaki looks to Dawn. "Want me to come with you? I don't mind lending a hand."

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'There's times I wish our friends weren't so...civic-minded.'.
(Ch. B [Lighthawk]) Seminole transmits: 'What's up now?'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Nothing. Just one of our new friends, a Mr. Genzuke Hayawazaki, wants to help out with lookin' for whatever the trouble is 'round town. This would be fine, except I don't think he's in the same league as what Striders and Rock both label 'trouble'.'.

Kain frowns, "The Yin is a active warning system, Twenty four Seven. It works like well, a old comic book character warning senses, save the Cipher GLOWS. I believe his name was Spider-Man."

(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Med-bay prepped. Someone wanna tell me what's going on.'.
(Ch. B [Lighthawk]) Seminole transmits: 'Interesting.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Losserat took Mike's brother.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Abducted him?'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'As near as makes no nevermind...'.

Kain says, "Of course, the Yin lasts as long as X has it in his systems. No more no less."

Dawn turns to Genzuke, and with a simple shake of the head replies, "I'd rather you not. If X says there's trouble, and a Strider says there's trouble...it means major league trouble. How 'bout that dinner offer sometime, ok?"

Genzuke Hayawazaki nods to Dawn, smiling. "Sure thing. Take care of yourself, and be careful, okay?"

Twila Peterson just stares a lil at Kain. "Would hate to see that one as a Master..." She then comments to Genzuke, "Yeah...was on my way to the bike now. Don't really trust Quire all that much..."

Rock looks then to Dawn, cradling the unconsuis Mike almost tenderly in his arms, offering a sigh. "Be careful. I think it had something to do with Kaust." Rock only shakes his head, then looks to the Civilian, blinking then offering a nod and soft smile. "Greetings, Mr. Hayawazaki." How does he know his name? He is just nifty that way... and he heard it on the Radio. "And don't worry... I don't expect anything to go too wrong, I hope." Rock then looks to the others, specifically to Kain and nods. "... Good to know... Thank you for this, Kain... It's... well.." Rock only shakes his head, in disbelief if anything, then looks to Twila. "Come on. Let's get to the Labs. Mike needs to get there... now."

Kain nods, "Indeed. I would hate to see the power of the Yin in the wrong hands, or any Cipher for that matter."

Rock nods to Kain, offering a soft smile. "Thank you, Kain... It is... an honor... Truely."

(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'How can you forcefully abduct someone from Neo-Tokyo. This is our city.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'By freakin' vanishin' into thin air, for starters.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: '...And no one thought of, I don't know, shooting him.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'It was too late...'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Why'd he do it?'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Not important right now, and I dunno. Twila can explain, but I'd say Mike takes priority.'.

Dawn replies quickly to Genzuke, "Of course. Thanks.", then to Twila, "Whataya mean? Quire ain't gonna mess up Mike, right?" A quick nod to Rock, "Got it. I'll be careful. Just get bro taken care of, will ya?"

Kain bows, "You're welcome, Rock-San."

"Not if I can help it," Twila mumbles, then slides onto her bike. "Take care, Kain," and starts the motor.

Yeah yeah, Twila... give Rock time... Anyway... Rock looks to Twila and nods, "Lets go."

Rock then ignites his Dash Jets, shooting foward at a pace that Twila's motorbike can keep up with

(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'What's Mike's condition?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Mental Trauma'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Mostly unharmed. Fell once, maybe a few feet. Seems mostly unconscious. If I had t'guess, I'd say it's trauma.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Alright, I have a private med-table set up for him. It has the ability to light restrain and some sedatives next to it, just in case he's suffering from any kinda of dissociative trauma that'd make him a danger to himself or others. Other than that the station is isolated and comfortable. Take him to the back chamber in the medbay.'.
(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: 'I dont think he will need it, Quire. Just rest and time... we will get Brad back'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Best to take precautions though.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: 'Tracking down Kaust and rescuing Brad shouldn't be difficult. Maybe Brad'll manage to send us a signal or something.'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'That's...giving that he would want to...'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: '/If/ he wants to. He looked kinda mesmerized by what Kaust said.'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'So I'm just guessin' here, it'll be up to us.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: '...He want with Kaust.. by choice?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Yes.'.
(Ch. B [Genius!]) Quire transmits: '...Not so simple, then.'.

<Back home...>

Medical Bay <Hunter HQ>

Michael Eildath is still putting up no protests to anything...

Twila Peterson enters the bay quietly. She overhears the radio of course, but doesn't make comment. Quire's a genius...but she just doesn't trust her really "We won't know what type of trauma until he wakes up. Has on his history it's more like a...withdrawl thing with him..."

The doors to the Med Bay slide open before the entering figure of one, The Blue Bomber. In his arms he carries a limp and far off Michael Eildath. Rock looks down to him, recieving transmissions that puzzle him... and force him to make hard decisions... Rock looks back to Twila... slowly offering a nod... "Yeah... Yeah..." Rock carries Mike back slowly, laying him on the med table suggested by Quire, but looking to the restraints... he removes them. Rock knows how Mike must feel... and he wont stop him.

Twila Peterson picks up a medical scanner and begins making sure his vitals are within limits. "I'm more concerned of his heart if anything. He did have that attack a few months back..."

Rock nods slowly, offering a soft sigh. "I know..." Rock looks down to Mike where he lays, looking to the sedatives for a moment... "If anything... he is going to need rest. A rest without dreams." Rock reaches over, lifting one of the hyposprays and cartridges, clicking it into the spray. "If your scan says it is all right, this may be a benefit to him."

Twila Peterson nods slowly in response as the bean runs across the man's frame. "Everything checks out. The sedatives should be safe..." she remarks, setting the device down and rolling up the fabric for Rock to give the shot. "Ok...green light."

Quire is standing by the med-bay, watching the scanners spring to life as Mike is laid on the bed, earnestly concerned with his well-being.

(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'This just gets more and more interesting..'.
(Ch. B [Wideband]) Dawn transmits: 'Kaust, Wily, and now the freakin' Yakuza. Are these Striders just trouble-magnets or something?'.
(Ch. B []) Twila Peterson transmits: 'Reminds me of the Hunters.'.

Rock looks to Twila, nodding slowly, then sighs as he lowers the hypospray to Mike's arm. "Rest well, my friend. May you sleep dreamlessly... so you will have the strength to do what you must." Rock then reaches down, gripping his arm to hold it still as he injects the sedative... Rock then looks to Twila as he draws the device away, setting it to the side... his eyes pained... and flickering from clear white to normal and back. He then looks away, sighing and crossing his arms over his chest as he walks back to lean against the wall...

Michael Eildath passes out next to immediately. Slumping down on the table even further than he already was.

After the spray is given Twila proceeds to cover the man with a blanket. Upon a quick glance to his vitals on the screens herself she walks over towards the reploid, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You...gonna be alright?"

The Blue Bomber slowly shakes his head... "... Maybe. Losstaret is demanding the information DeVry wanted from Dr. Light in exchange for Bradley. I... dont know if I should do this. I cant trust him... but if we can even get him in our sights for a moment. I wont let him get hurt... and Kaust is likely to kill him if anything if we dont comply. He also says if I give him this information, he will never bother me, my friends, or family ever again..."

Twila lets our a brief sigh. "You just stated that you can't trust him. Even I know that he simply won't keep from bothering us. The type of monster he is." Her voice trails off as she tries to think of what to say. "But you're right. I sincerly doubt Brad knows what he's gotten himself into. There has to be some way to resolve this."

Rock nods slowly, offering a sigh. "This is going to be difficult, Twila... very difficult." Rock slowly closes his eyes, running words through his mind as he deals with transmissions and the job of being a commander. Kaust raises something dark in Rock, something that Bass too brings out in him... Hate. And Rock dreads that part of him... but he will deal with it as best he can. "... Brad will come out of this all right... I am sure." Rock raises his head, looking to Twila. His eyes pained he goes about extending his arms slowly to gather her into a tender hug for a few long moments...

Armor or no armor, Twila returns the embrace as tight as she can. After a few mere moments of gazing into the reploid's eyes it's easy enough to see that he deeply needs one. Not knowing whether or nor Rock's still recieving those dreaded tranmissions she continues holding him, hoping it gives him some manner of strength. "It'll be alright," she whispers, trying to encourage him.

As for Mike?

Appears as if Twila's going to be within the Center again until her fellow human Hunter is back on his feet and functional. But she's not altogether certain of how all this will affect him. At least, not yet.

<Global News Network> "Good evening, ladies and gentleman. This is News Flash Newt reporting to you live from Guanabara Harbor, Rio. We have just learned that a massive passenger ship, the S. S. Ursa, left this harbor several hours ago. For reasons unknown, an explosion occured in one of the engine rooms. The ship is now sinking rapidly. The only details of the ship that are known at this time are that all of the passengers and crew were reploids. Apparently, the ship had been advertised as a way for reploids to take a vacation from the prejudices of humans. We will have more details as they become available. We will now return you to you regularly scheduled program."

The Blue Bomber holds Twila firmly, yet ever so light a hold for one who could crush a vehicle with one squeeze... gazing back into her eyes and slowly nods. "... It will... I know." Hope is now in Rock's eyes... having dealt with the problem it seems... his eyes stopping their flickering flashes.

And as for Mike?

Rock too will be here to help him when he wakes... but it seems... the world has more important matters for him to attend to. His eyes flush and turn a full, blank white, and glow a second before the GNN transmission flashes across the boards... his eyes closing... "... I don't think I am going to get use to this..." Rock then opens his eyes... they returning to normal as he looks to Twila... "... Looks like I have work to do."

"I won't keep you," Twila promises, as much as would like to...she knows she can't. She kisses him tenderly on the lips and then let's him go. "I'll keep watch on Mike and do some monitoring from here."

Rock nods to Twila, kissing her back lovingly, for long, slow minutes needing it deeply ... then pulls back and nods. "Take care, Twila... I will be back soon." Rock pulls back slowly and reluctantly... then turns, looking back over his shoulder as he heads back out of the med bay

Twila Peterson lifts her hand halfway to offer a small wave as he takes leave. "Godspeed."

Rock takes that to heart... and indeed... Rock then /launches/ off at a run.