Twi449c

During a Morgaine concert within New York's Party-Dome...

The pianist starts up with something relatively old; the slowly descending tune of what had been termed long ago as a "torchlight-style" tune. Morgaine runs her hand against the piano, slowly walking by as she begins to sing in a whispery tone of voice. o/~ The Borderline.. The Borderline.. The Borderline.. The Borderline. o/~ A very brief pause occurs when Yang touches his computer again, but it is too brief for any true skip in the song to be noticed. o/~ Red and roses.. lips and breath.. hair and dolls.. they're look-a-like.. o/~ Oddly enough, the stage "image" of Morgaine phases out of existence, and somewhere in the audience, another image of Morgaine appears, beginning to weave and float her way among the different people. o/~ Smoke and mist.. night and midnight.. The Deep and Hell.. they really get to me.. o/~

Yang smiles BRIGHTLY when this song starts up. "So... appropriate," he murmurs, a sly smile on his face as his hacking efforts pick up speed, trying to hit Morgaine with something... anything. An order, to be specific. Panning his gaze around to the various Morgaine's floating throughout the dome, he grins. Continuing to type on his computer, grinning. "Come to me, Morgaine... come to me..." he murmurs, easily hearable by Rock and Twila.

Kain hrms as he listens oO(You don't know how right you are...) He overhears Twila's whisper and allows a small smirk oO(Well, they do deserve each other...) He hrms, and looks at Derek, oO(I wonder if he knows that Twila's heart alredy be taken?)

The Blue Bomber... watches... sapphire blues blinking as he follows Morgaine's trip through the crowd, listening to the words. He notes the whisper, his attention caught. He nots the breif pause... then shakes his head. Then he blinks... looking to Yang as he speaks... leaning slightly away from Twila, speaking to Yang. "What are you doing, man?..." And Rock only turns... watching Morgaine.

Yang has this look... the look Iris used to get when she had this thing for Zero. "Making her mine," he murmurs back to Rock, sending information and commands throughout Morgaine's networks. "Come to me, Morgaine. Come to me, beautiful one..."

Rock blinks, hearing Yang's words and his face turns shocked. "..." He is even to enrapt to reply to what is going on downwards in the crowd a distance away from them, twila being altered by Gear out of his own hearing.

Twila Peterson turns toward Yang again, lifting her head from the makeshift pillow that had been Rock's shoulder. She first turns towards Yang, about to saw something...but is cut off by the small reploid's warning. She positions herself so Gear isn't accidently thrown off. "Oh, no..."

Derek Vasquez watches the loving couple and slumps down in his chair, as he realizes that his luck has run out. Dang Kaust.

Morgaine flitters and hovers through the audience, swooping around people, running her hand against cheeks. o/~ Flip and fly.. heal and feel.. flower and poison.. are the brink.. o/~ She's on the other side of the concert hall, but her gaze flips up to eye Yang from across the way, and slowly, she begins to float over. o/~ The Borderline.. The Borderline.. The Borderline.. THe Borderline.. Body and jell-o.. crack and jazz.. arch and bridge.. they're look-a-like.. o/~ Her arms widen in an almost-embrace as she continues closer and closer, gaze on Yang.. or is it? o/~ Meet me and hit me.. tiny and sticky candy.. kiss and eating are just the same things.. o/~

Yang smiles in quiet satisfaction as the multitude of Morgaine's begins to coalesce towards him. He keeps his computer on, pumping infromation... his arms held out toward her, in a hug-like gesture. "That's right. Come to me, beautiful... Come to me, Sharon. You are mine..."

Ayla Ericson gets shoved around a bit, stumbling twice as she heads for the back of the crowd. The going is far from easy.

Zero just sighs at the events and closes his eyes again, losing himself in his thoughts, trying not to let his temper get the best of him tonight like it did last night.

Enker is quite happy that he still has his spear out. He glances over at Gutsy's antics and sighs. "Fool." For now he's causing no real harm, though.

Rock sits in his chair, sapphire blues on the approading Morgaine, his hands resting on the arm wrests. In his eyes are reflected the image of Morgaine. And he feels that he is going to need to give Yang a good talking to when they get back to base.

A very long talk

Derek Vasquez sits upright and winces. He presses down on his stomach with some discomfort, no it wasn't something he ate. Kaust put a sword there a few hours ago. He regains his cool, and nods to Kain. He switches on his radio and calls Sarah.

Morgaine's arms open wider as she approaches Rock and Yang, face showing absolutely no emotion what so ever. o/~ Free and fall and love and love.. evil makes you feel good.. can't help doin'.. that.. o/~ The songstress swoops down, close enough to Yang so that her image is reflected on the Hunter scientist's glasses.. but instead, she heads for Rock. She floats there, for an instant, taking a hand and brushing her fingers against his cheek. For a brief second, it seems as though she'd move on; but no, she flits right in, and kisses Rock on the lips. It's a brief kiss, to be sure, and she backs out, still emotionless as before. o/~ The Borderline... o/~

Twila Peterson then goes back to staring at Yang and shakes her head. Sooner or later his antics are probably going to have him thrown out...or allow him to get what he wants. When Morgaine gives Rock a "kiss" however... "Move along, sister," she whispers with an edge of menace to Morgaine.

Ballade laughs softly when the apparition kisses Rock. "It seems Rock is... popular, tonight." He listens for a minute. "Is the music finished?"

Yang smiles sibilantly... though that smile fades the instant Morgaine slips around and wraps around Rock, beginning to fawn on him. And a touch... he flicks off his computer, as Rock is kissed. Huffing softly, he decides to lose himself in the last of the hypnotic music.

Rock sits there... watching... his eyes opening wide and his entire body stiffening. His gaze... wide and shocked. And as Morg comes to him in fact, the glowing fingers brushing against his cheek, then, the kiss...

Rock's cheeks flush to a bright, burning red with a blush to beat a hundred sunsets.

He just sits there, to shocked to stammer, to shocked to move, his entire body motionless with shock save for the burning of his cheeks.

Oh boy...

Bit blinks for a moment, just looking to the song. He watches as the female kisses Rock. He just stares, and listens to the music some more. He then just decides to listen to the rest of the music.

As she floats back to the stage, Morgaine looks over her shoulder to Yang; the gaze in her eyes says it all - 'access denied'. The music drifts off, and the lights dim. For several minutes afterwards, the music continues on in the dark, until it too, dies out. Darkness reigns soon after, until the lights go on, and Morgaine is standing on center stage.

The Malakim chortles softly, the sound... a rippling, ghostly echo of screams... threats... mad laughter, all rolled into one. His version of a 'genteel laugh'. He speaks, towards Sarah as he eyes the menagerie of open emotions between Rock and the Mortal, :

... YES... I FIND IT ODD THAT SUCH... THRILL SEEKERS... CONTINUALLY CALL UPON MY NAME... ONLY TO FIND THEIR END AWAITING THEM... BUT... I AM NOT HERE... THIS NIGHT... TO HARVEST THE SOULS OF THE DAMNED... LET THE TRIBULATION COMMENCE... IT WILL BE SOMETHING THEY CAN LOOK FORWARD TOO... WHEN I COME FOR THEM ALL...

At least he's playing nice tonight, right?

Yang watches Morgaine retreat with a wistful look. He'll get his later... oh, yes...

Hmmm....ok. So Twila *won't* be getting any of Morgaine's videos for Rock or the others as an additional present. She sits glaring at the image before noticing that the lil squirrel had landed in her boot and helps the reploid out. Turning away from Rock she hastily, and...well...somewhat politely...excuses herself without much of a "See you back at base..." or whatnot. She merely, picks up her coat and starts making her way out of the row...

Rock sits there... motionless as his namesake, his cheeks burning. And he can only stare straight ahead at nothing, and slowly one hand rises up, to touch his own lips. "..."

And the Crowd Itself explodes into cheering, clapping, and chanting for the woman apon the stage.

And Rock sits, barely noticing a thing. That is, untill Twila begins to stalk off... and his head shakes rapidly, looking up and after her.

.oO( Oh boy am I going to get it... ...It wasn't /my/ fault! )Oo.

Bast just.. blinks. This wasn't part of the coreography.

Yang looks at Rock, and half-smiles, trying to fake some sincerity. "I will see you back at headquarters." He flicks his computer off, and stands, looking at Morgaine. And begins to clap. The crowd begins to follow suit, as he looks at Morgaine. Meeting her eyes, his own reflect 'Access Will Be Mine.'

(Ch. B []) Zero transmits: 'I'm going off duty. And I'd rather not be disturbed unless it's urgent.'.

(Ch. B [Dragonfire]) Rock transmits: '*slightly... out of it sounding* Allright Z... ...hey!'.

(Ch. B []) Zero transmits: 'I think you've got more pressing matters to worry about.'.

Morgaine blinks herself, looking back and forth - a look is given to Bast, and she shrugs a little. "Um, hang on a second?" she calls out to Rock and Yang, stepping off the stage. It may be all right to leave, but she has a few words for these two. In other words? Yang, start running. :)

Rock glances to Yang... almost glaring at him. Rock is /so/ going to pay him back for this. But then he rises too, clapping earnestly and cheering with everyone else. This was an amazing concert

Yang has... already vanished -- he slipped off with the rest of the crowd. He's nowhere to be seen.

Rock says, "..."

Rock says, "... Yang... -_-"

By the time Twila reaches the doors leading to the outside she's fending of tears. So, ok...it may not have been Rock's fault. But she's still a female...as well as a redhead. And she has to play the part doesn't she? She disappears outside, not outright noticing being followed by the Strider.

Enker gives the band a token round of applause before noticing that Guts Man has left the area. "Oh, where did he go...?"

Kain stares in shock even after the scene has end. He fumbles for his radio and keys it up for one short but smug message to X...

Rock sighs, remaining where he is, his hands slowly moving to the pockets of his aviator's jacket. If he was one to actualy like that stuff... he would probably go get a smoke about now to calm his nerves... his radio filling with messages. He pauses, sending on in reply to those whom he got some from, then he turns, walking down along the aisle. He is of course, stared at by about everyone around. He was just afterall... kissed by Morgaine Le Fay...

"Twila! Hey Twila! Wait up!" After getting past the crowds in the concert hall, Derek can barely catch up with the fleeing woman. Of course, being injured makes it all the more harder.

Once out the door Twila pauses long enough only to put on her coat to shield herself from the New York winter...even as as mumbles to herself. Turning about when her name gets called she half hoped it was Rock on some crazy way...despite being upset with him. But...must be too much to ask for. "Yes?" she states tersely, although some raw emotion can be found there.

"Sorry, Derek," Twila forces out, forcing herself to calm down if only slightly. After all, the Strider didn't do anything. "What...is it?"

Wind Man floats in, quietly following Twila from a distance, after deciding by way of instinct that she'll be more interesting than other options.

Derek Vasquez rubs the back of his head, somewhat guiltily, without really knowing the reason why. Maybe just because Twila's angry and he's imposing. "I saw you leave rather quickly...I haven't really visited...and I wanted to say I'm sorry."

"Well, we've all been a bit busy..." Twila stammers as she gets herself out of the way of the exiting crowds waiting for the young man to do the same. She brings up a glved hand to wipe a tear from her eye, asking, "How...how've you been...considering? You never did mention that...yesterday."

Derek Vasquez appears to be flustered, in observance of Twila's feelings and his most recent dealings with Kaust. He's silent enough to beat Hiryu in a staring contest. After a bit, he opens his mouth, then promptly closes it, deciding against that, then finally forcing out, "Well, I've been stupid."

Sword Man strides into the central part of the dome, obviously quite angry, and very moody. However, he does catch a glimspe of Lady Patterson, and she appears to be... weeping. At this he moves over to her, and kneels silently.

Derek Vasquez purses his lips but admits, "Sarah's really mad at me for running out and challenging Kaust. I know I should have believed her.."

Bit just goes silent, making his way to glance around the picknic area. A growl murmurs from his lips as there is no place for him to change. No matter, his disguise is fine enough....

Twila Peterson moves her hands into her pockets, silently observing Derek for a few moments, then turns a glance to the Robot Master, stiffing somewhat. "Uh...hi, Sword," she manages, tho her voice slightly shaken. When the Strider answers she refocuses on him and presses her lips together. "You...challanged Kaust?"

Ballade is still lingering after the concert, mostly to herd the remaining Masters out without too many problems.

Sword Man remains kneeling before His Lord's cherished Lady, silently listening though, and hoping that he can be of some assistance. In his mind, he can hear that awful song replaying, but this takes precedence over the singer.

Derek Vasquez grins despite himself, "I helped him redecorate his place. Put a new Kaust shaped door in his living room, and he tore the place apart...." He touches his midsection lightly, "...But he left me a few souvenirs."

Slowly from the north and the main stage area comes a figure that parts the crowd before him. Nope, it isnt Ballade, it isnt Guts, it isnt Punk, it isnt anyone else that would cause people to stand back in fear. Instead, they are looking at him with shocked looks and whispers. The one who was kissed by Morgaine Le Fey... And other whispers are about the crowd of 'Mega Man' 'Yeah, It's Commander X! I've seen a picture without the armor' 'Yeah, it's him' 'Can you believe she /kissed/ him?!'

Rock does his best to ignore all of these, looking about the picnic area with a soft sigh... looking for the shock of red hair.

Ballade tilts his head to one side at the overheard mention of Kaust Losstaret. "I wish Father would listen regarding him and his henchmen..." The noise around Rock catches his attention then, and he smiles faintly. "Ah. The Man of the hour. Idolized in that.. song."

Twila doesn't really know what to say to Sword Man at the moment, so...she doesn't really state much of anything...although she does twig the fact that he's wanting something. She brings her fingers to wipe away another tear and looks away breifly to cough. "You alright tho?" she questions Derek with some concern. "No lasting injuries?"

Well, the concert was great. But now it is back to business. He takes a stare over towards the crowd around him, not giving them any emotion. He just decides to make his way out, if no one gets in his way.

Rock pauses, hearing the words. He offers a soft sigh, as he looks to he of the Purple Armor. "Ballade." That is all the greeting he needs to give. And luckily... Rock has wiped off the lipstick from his lips. He narrows his eyes at Ballade for a moment, then shakes his head, giving him a nod. "Hey... I'm the hero around here..." Rock smirks slightly. "You're the bad guys. People wont be singing to much about you." Rock then blinks... seeing another massive figure to the side. The kneeling Sword Man. And... the shock of red. ... why is there a fog hanging over her? ...oh boy. Rock looks to Ballade. "If you will excuse me... I have to go talk to someone."

And Rock turns, walking for Twila and now that he moves closer... Derek. A twinge flashes in his own mind for a minor instant, then flashes away

Derek Vasquez says, "I'll be fine...at least I hope so." He trails off wistfully, "You don't look so good yourself..."

"Actually, I'm not..." Twila murmers, trying to keep her emotions in check. "You...saw what happened in there..."

Ballade nods, and waves a bit. "My guest. I think Sword has a request." He smirks slightly. "A dirge now and then would be a nice thought."

Sword Man looks about on his body, then produces a small cloth and hands it to the Lady before him. "It would not be proper for an honorable man to leave a woman crying, especially one as special as you." At that he rises, his face still containing the solid and unwavering sternest manner. "However, I have business to attend to, and you have another gentleman aiding you." He does not leave however, but stands there, waiting patiently.

The cloud slowly begins to drift away as Rock approaches Twila, almost as if set at ease by his presence. As if the cloud were no longer needed, so it could move away a bit.

Derek Vasquez gives Twila the most earnest look he can muster, "I saw...but I don't think I understood. Morgaine...if that was Morgaine...I didn't get there until the end of the concert. Was she some kind of hologram?" Inwardly Derek tells himself to stop before he totally ruins his chances, "She kissed X?"

Rock pauses a distance from Derek and Twila... hands in his aviator jacket pockets... and his face concerned and worried. He pauses, not noting much else... overhearing the spoken words. A soft sigh comes from him... not loud enough to be heard... and the crowd would most likely hide him from except direct looking. Ballade's comment penetrates however.

.oO( Why does everyone want to kill me, tonight? ) Oo.

He looks to Derek then, listening to his words...

.oO(It wasn't /my/ fault!)Oo.

Twila Peterson nods slowly towards the Master as she dries her eyes. For the moment, she doesn't seem to mind that he's one of Wily's soldiers. "Thanks for your concern, Sword Man...um...alright for you to tend to your other duties," she fumbles, inwardly hoping that doesn't include to maim or kill anyone. With her back to Rock or anyone else from the concert hall she doesn't quite know who's there. "Yeah...that's what happened. And he let her do it. He didn't even try to stop it," she tells him, voice breaking, eyes misting over again.

Ballade hardly wants to kill Rock at the moment, although it is possible to take his comment that way. He notices Rock's pause and smiles just a bit. "So much for clarity of purpose." He looks Sword over again, and then up at the cloud.

He's stuck here until all the Master's leave - no sense risking a confrontation right now.

Each word hits Rock like a blow... he... he couldn't! ... it... -_- There is nothing he really could have done. It was pure shock that held him for the longest time. And now... regret... pain... concern... worry... they all trace themselves through Rock's mind. Rock just stands there... half hidden by the crowd.

Sword Man turns and politely leaves, only to see Knight Ballade standing at a distance. At once, he walks over to the Elite, silently. He decides to leave the handkerchief with Lady Peterson for now, as it does no harm. "Greetings Knight Ballade."

Ballade glances to one side, his expression neutral. "Sword." He turns back to watching Rock and Twila. This is altogether far too fun. Might make good bedtime stories for the Doctor.

Sword Man watches Ballade watch the two lovebirds, and decides to join him, at least until he is told not to. To Sword Man's eyes, Ballade is perhaps something to aspire to, if not a bit too nonchalant. So he silently broods over Morgaine's song, as he ponders Lady Peterson's position, and pain...

Derek Vasquez glances over Twila's shoulder and sees Rock there, watching and listening to their conversation, or at least snippets of it. He takes some amusement of seeing Rock crushed by every word. All's fair in love and war, right? He may be a Blue Strider, but he's a man, and a man has needs. Besides, this could be a good sign. Lady Luck might just be back! He leans forward, "You know, I think we're gathering a crowd. He spreads his hand pointing to the Robot Masters, "Do you want to go somewhere else?"

Gear Squirrel chitters softly as she watches her sweetheart's rival get himself into a pickle, "Poor guy, this is the price of being the center of attention."

Ballade gives Twila a smile if she looks. A suprisingly sincere one. Someone who can cause Rock /this/ much pain is to be respected, no matter the method. As for Derek, Ballade is similarly impressed with the manuever. Even if he doesn't quite understand it.

He chuckles very softly. "Ah. Poor Rock. Kisses and Tears."

The young redheaded woman emits a sniffle before gently shaking her head. Despite what she's experiencing she doesn't feel right about this in the least. "Derek...you're a nice guy. And I respect you for that. But," *sniffle* "I can't..." And with that she begins to take a few steps away from him...looking for all intents and purposes as if ready to bolt.

Sword Man glances over at Knight Ballade for a brief moment, partially confused. He hadn't noticed Rock yet, however, now that he is pointed out, Sword Man has hald a mind to tell him what for. But, he knows that this would not be an honorable time to attack, especially without warning. "It is almost sad, if not for his annoying nature, I would feel somewhat sorry for him. However I believe the pain is the most for Lady Peterson. She should have remained with Lord Wily, who would have made her happy.

Rock stands there, hands in his aviator's jacket pockets. He slowly closes his eyes, lowering his head. He notes Ballade's words, reminding himself to do something later, and he softly sighs. He hears Twila's words, slowly looking up and towards Twila... and slowly he makes his way forward, emerging completely from the crowd and now in view to Twila... and sapphire blues look to the redhead... concern, regret, sadness, and everything else rolled up in them. He only stands there in full sight of her, saying nothing. Not here. Not where everyone can hear, stare, and gape. He does however look to Derek... nodding to the man, before he speaks. "I hope you are well, Derek... I... am sorry you went through that. Don't worry... Kaust won't do this to anyone else... I promise that."

Ballade is of the opinion Wily would be wasted on Twila, whatever Father thinks he wants. "It's fun. I haven't seen Rock this upset in ages."

He blinks at Rock's words regarding Kaust. "Mmm? Is Rock finally going to deal with the problem the right way? Good." He turns to Sword. "I've seen enough. I'm leaving - do not attack." And he turns and starts towards the exit. "Oh, and... Derek? Good luck."

Sword Man stares in shock at the Elite, not quite certain how he guessed his intentions. He decides though, that it would be best for both Lady Peterson's and Lord Wily's sake if he stayed to ensure her safety. He lets Knight Ballade walk away and then continues to monitor the small group before him.

Derek Vasquez, startled by Twila's reaction, stands there for a second, watching her bolt, if she so wishes. This girl really is heavy management, isn't she? When Rock steps in his way, Derek stares directly at Rock without comprehension.

The Strider blinks at the Hunter Commander, the words seeping into his mind but not completely understood. He turns to where Twila bolted, o O (He's sorry that Twila just dumped me again? Huh? Oh Kaust!) He mumbles, "Yeah sure, I'll be there with ya right when you get him?"

Twila Peterson looks down and away from the men, feeling a bit awkward by now. Not saying more than a soft, "I gotta get out of here," and turns away...making way towards the last of the emerging crowd from the concert hall....

Rock nods to Derek at his words, pausing and feeling a hand on his shoulder... looking back to it then back to Kain. He offers the Blue Strider Commander a soft nod. His face looking as pained as Twila's in fact. And Rock looks back to the fiery redhead. "You will if I have any say, Derek. I am going to shut Kaust away forever, where he can be kept without his 'toys' and in restrains for the rest of his life... "

Rock looks to Twila, sighing softly... and he follows, offering a muttered... "Gomen... if you will excuse me..." Rock moves slowly to follow her...

Unfortunately, Rock and Twila never were able to talk that evening. Brokenhearted over these events, the girl cried herself to sleep soon after arriving within her quarters...

================================= IC Rumors ==================================
Message: 18/2 Posted Author
The Kiss Sat Dec 30 Unknown Stranger
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ya know the concert that Diva Morgaine De Fae put on? Well, it was nice, as concerts go. But I got a secret to tell you...

You can keep a secret, right?

Well, it like this. During Morgaine's last set, she move up to Mega Man...yeah, that's right. The Blue dude. The leader of the Maverick Hunters... and kiss him.

No, I'm serious, dude. She kissed him. And right after that, some chick that was beside Mega Man up and left.

Ya know, I think Mega Man and Morgaine would make a cute couple, but if I know him and that other chick, he would be sleeping on the couch.

Now, shush. This is between us, so don't talk about to everyone ya see.

Later.

==============================================================================

Twila Peterson is presently sitting, wrapped in a coat, on the beach of the New Jersey shoreline, looking towards the ocean -- sulking for the most part. However, for anyone arriving she appears to be nothing more than a petite human for watching the ocean waters lap at the shore.

Cold Man arrives at the Boardwalk, sending by exhaust a cloud of cold gas around a bouquet in his hands. The bouquet itself has a haunting, ethereal beauty; it seems to be some sort of flower, except a deep cyan blue, almost like crystal or ice. They look fragile, and indeed they are. Cold Man begins his search for Twila on the Boardwalk.

The Master Met carries a metric ton of chocolates in a huge box, which balances unsteadily on its back. You can't see it yet, but a tag on the top reads "For my darling Twila, from Albert."

Wind Man drifts towards the huddled figure, examining. Looks like she could use a hand. Too bad the closest he has are some fan blades...

Sword Man follows Sir Cold onto the boardwalk, holding a rather strange-looking box. He steps quickly and with pride as he moves toward her. Being unused to romantic methods and charms, he seems to be a bit stiff, and nervous. He hopes that this present would cheer her up, as well as make her feel warmer toward his liege, Lord Wily. After turning a corner, he notices his target, as well as Sir Wind Man.

Wind Man is concealed by a thick layer of fog.. slightly chilly, but not totally uncomfortably so. He begins to slowly descend as he gets closer to "Mom".
Twila brings both her legs to her chest and holds them there while resting her chin on the tops of her knees. She had cried herself last night. And her eyes show it. Or it could be from some of the wind against her skin. She looks at the fog and blinks, knowing it's not exactly natural by it's approach. She lowers both knee again and straightens ups, seeing a figure. But...it's not exactly the form she had been expecting...or rather hoping. "Hi," she greets somewhat forelornly and gazes back to the waters.

Enker uses his spear like a support beam to make sure the enormous candy box doesn't fall of The Master Met's head. He himself carries a much smaller gift. Awkwardly, he and the Met cross the boardwalk and head toward Wind Man's location. For a brief, horrible moment, he ponders "How am I going to get this candy box off my Met's back without breaking it?"

The Master Met lets out a deep, booming "NERP" and steps off the boardwalk into the sand, candy box teetering wildly. It burrows a deep hole in the sand, leaving the box resting comfortably on the ground, then digs forward, leaving a Bugs Bunny-style dirt trail on the beach. It finally surfaces in the ocean, the salt water washing the sand off its hat. "NERP!"

The fog slowly dissipates, just enough, in just the right area, to reveal the identity of the cloud's center to Twi.... just so it doesn't REALLY scary.

Cold Man reaches 'mother,' and simply looks down at her from his standing position. He gives a single exhaling sound. "I'm sorry." Not sorry about anything himself or his compatriots did, of course, but it's all that comes to mind. He takes out a small electronic stand, exuding the same nitrogen gas he himself is sending to surround the bouquet of ice flowers in his hands. He places the bouquet in the stand, so that it can be handled by others without wilting from too little cold, and places a large hand on Twila's shoulder...

Sword Man notices that the other Masters are all converging on one point: Lady Twila. With silent and stern determination, he makes his way across the beach to the female figure resting there, distraught. A Lady in Distress, it seems, a woman who's heart was broken by a romantic gesture of another. Arriving before her, he kneels and presents her with the fancy box, hoping that she will enjoy the gift inside. He says nothing to her, but stays prone and patiently waits...

Enker was never really one for comforting anyone, aside from an encouraging word to Dr. Wily now and then to shake off his depression funks. So he makes an awkward attempt at it. "Miss Peterson... Albert sends his deepest regrets that Mega Man hurt you like this. We all felt bad for you, so we decided to come and... be with you. You are family, after all."

When usually in the presence of Robot Masters Twila has learned to at least place on a pretty good act around them. In alot of ways it's helped her from being harmed...as well as others. However, not all of it's an act. Some of them she does feel sorry for since, in a way, they never had a chance against Wily's programming. But she really doesn't let anyone else know. If she did, she knows what type of lecture her brother would be giving her.

She reaches out for the boxed gift with a soft "thank you", but pauses on opening. She nods silently to Enker not really knowing what to say really. "Thanks, that's kind of you..."

The fog-with-a-hole-in-it descends to about 2 inches off the ground and stands there, looking intently. A small hatch on Windy opens up, and a big fluffy teddy bear with a red bow on it pops out and sort of drifts over into Twi's lap. It's amazing what he carries in the cargo compartments... Even more amazing that he's actually offering a friendly gesture to someone.

Inside however Twila is shaking. .oO(.......................)Oo.

Such a sweet, tender, loving scene. Too bad that that it might be wrecked... by the wickedness that this way comes!!

The Grimm Spectre of Doom, his fearsome form hidden beneath a tattered cowl... his wicked scythe resting ever so casually upon an overly large shoulder as he walks the funeral march pace... head bowed, as if in thought, emerald optics glowing with an eery light..

Cold Man hesitates, and then sets down the strange ice flowers beside Twila. He pauses; Cold Man begins to speak, then stops. He has no notion of what to say.

Sword Man nods as she accepts the presents, and to Knight Enker's words. "Yes, Lord Wily beleived that at this most painful time in you life, you need comfort and reassurance. A ruler of such caliber as Lord Wily would never leave such a delicacy alone in this condition." At this he smiles, slightly, but briefly, almost a fleeting thing.

Wily? Barf! Twila nonetheless nods towards Sword as she begins opening the gift. Pressing her lips together tightly she opens the lid, looking at what's inside. "That's...very thoughful of him."

Within the elaborate present is a small golden statue of Wily, and a bottle of purfume.

YES... THE LORD HAS ALWAYS HAD... THE BEST INTERESTS... OF THE WORLD... INCLUDING YOURSELF... AT HEART... MOTHER DEAREST...

Comes the cold, hollow voice of the Grimm Master as he makes his way towards the group!

Somewhere, Twila knows that Wily indeed doesn't have her best interests at heart. She knows the forced wedding was a way to get back at Rock...and make her some sort of prized trophy. And he's maintained some interest in her ever since the Stardroid affair...no doubt to satisfy his own twisted curiosity. Still, she let's out a small sigh. "You all...really shouldn't have.." she muses, trying to sound as if she's cheered but...failing miserably. It's then she picks up the teddy bear and snugs it tight.

Cold Man exhales largely. He recognizes Twila's forced reaction, and simply looks around awkwardly...

Wind Man observes this and, oddly, begins spinning out a warmer breeze. Something more comforting, sort of. Makes for a nicer mood.

Enker next hands his box to Twila. "This is an item from my own personal collection. There's also a little something in here I put together in my spare time." It contains a small, ornate, golden dagger, along with a miniature, working met that wears a helmet just like Enker's. "The weapon once belonged to Emperor Augustus of ancient Rome. The met... well... I... hope you'll look at it and it'll remind you of me.

Sword Man feels a bit like a heel. Although he does not approve of courting a Lady that is this shaken, he must follow orders to the letter. He wishes that Lord Wily would not be so quick and impulsive at times, however, it is one of the many things that makes him think that his leige would be the rightful ruler over all...

The Grimm Skull agrees absolutely with Twila. They shouldn't have tried comforting... comfort is for finites, not the wife of the Lord and Creator. Do not attempt to follow Skull Man's path of reasoning, for there be Dragons there! X_X However, he doesn't voice his opinions... instead, only stares down towards Twila with frightening emerald optics, his thoughts of fiery destruction and grave yard pondering flowing free..

Enker shrugs. "When I was training, Dr. Wily was always telling me to share my toys." A joke? From /Enker/? Maybe he's really sincere... "Maybe it could be a memento for you, a family heirloom. Give it to your children. Your human children, that is."

Of course...wouldn't that mean Twila would wed a human...a specific human? She catches Enker's reasoning and destractedly nods...not in agreement, only in acknowledgement. "Thank you. It's...very kind..." she stamers...putting it aside with some of her other gifts, but keeping it more closer than the others as well. "So...how is Albert?"

Cold Man folds his arms, glad that the subject changes. "He has been kept busy lately with various projects. I have not been in contact with Father for awhile." He strokes his chin with one of his rather large hands. "I worry about Dr. Wily."

Twila Peterson notes, "He's always been...a bit busy..."

Sword Man agrees with Sir Cold Man on this matter, however, he thinks that whatever is keeping his leige preoccupied must be important. He looks to Lady Peterson for a moment, considering the gift that he gave her, and perhaps its appropriateness. If it were he, himself, who give the present, it would be less egocentric. However, since it is Lord Wily who wishes the delivery of it, he will not argue. "Do you still have the hankerchief I gave you last night? If so, you may keep that as well, as part of this present."

Twila Peterson snugs the little teddy again...already missing the stuffed lion Rock had gotten her once. But, that memory only serves to make her more upset...as well as confused. She nods slighly towards Sword, offering a small sniffle. "I do...and...thank you...again..." she mumbles. However, "This is all very nice of you. But I'm just not ready for anyone else at the moment."

Enker rolls his eyes while Twila's not looking. This mission was destined to

Wind Man quietly drifts off, mission about as complete as is androidally possibly, it seems. The fog slowly develops back into a natural shield...

Cold Man pauses, and turns around. "We apologize for inconveniencing you." The Robot Master sighs and begins his walk back to the teleporters of New York. Just as he expected.

A mildly dejected cloud of fog drifts away, mission somewhat flopping. Well. It was worth a try....

Sword Man remains kneeling to Lady Peterson, his stern gaze looking up to her own. "If you ever find the need of someone else, or you are cold at night. We will be at ready for your call." Instead of just leaving her to fend for her own, he says a bit, warming the area around her with his blade and natural heat. Determined to a fault, he will not leave unless requested to.

Twila Peterson can't help but feel a little badly for them. After all they did try. However, presents aren't exactly what...or who she needs right now. She simply sits there, hugging the teady, letting the Masters leave. However, towards Sword Man, she dips her chin in acknowledgement. "Very...thoughtful..." she murmers...becoming lost in her own thoughts.

Apparently, she also gathered somehow they sensed it was too fast, too soon.

Sword Man stands, regarding that as a cue to leave. He nods in her direction, and then begins to stride away from the woman, who from this angle looks too alone. With a sigh, he heads out back home to consider another course of action about these bugs and about Lady Peterson. He then realizes somwthing else: he needs to talk to Mega Man on how he treated her, and how he can hurt her in this way...

Twila glances upward as the soft object falls into her lap. She bites her lower lip as she takes it hand and looks back down towards the sand...quietly doodling. She's unaware of what the other Masters are thinking of or plotting at the moment, especially since she turned Wily's attempts. Taking a deep breath she wonders if it would be better for her if she had gone elsewhere...although here was the fist place that came to mind practically.

Wind Man is quietly muttering to himself, wondering how he gets himself in these situations. Actually, with the crashing of the waves, and the sub-vocal quality of his voice at the moment, Twi probably couldn't hear it. But he's still really wondering how he gets himself in these situations, and why he's gotten all (shudder) charitable all of a sudden.

Twila Peterson loosens her arms before gathering the items given to her into a small backpack she used when she first came, and idly swings it in one hand and lifts it upon standing. Another tear spills down her cheek...but she doesn't appear to care. She wearily moves herself across the beach...

Wind Man sends Rock a tightbeam radio transmission: "If you care at all for Miss Peterson, I suggest you head for the boardwalk, near New York City. She needs you there."

<Soon, back at the beach...>

Wind Man continues to hover overhead, moving with her with disturbing precision. And, inside the fog, his arms are crossed, as he mutters to himself silently

Twila Peterson doesn't overhear the Master's muttering. However, she does note that he's still there. She momentarily stops in mid-stride and glances towards the cloud. "I know you're there..."

A pause. The cloud stops dead in it's tracks. A mild curse, barely audible to Twi. "I must improve on that, it seems." And the cloud continues it's drifting pattern, following Twila, but slowly descending, the fog dissipating as Windy sucks most of the moisture up and holds it in small storage tanks.

Twila strengthens her grip slightly on her pack and swallows. "What..is it? she gets out.

Wind Man shrugs quietly, descending to the point at which he's hovering right beside her. "I am simply observing, and making sure you'll be alright, until another comes."

Twila Peterson brings her back up to hold to her chest. "A--Another?"

Wind Man nods quietly. "At some time in the reasonably near future, hopefully, someone will approach that I believe you need to be with."

Considering it's a Master saying this...it could mean almost anyone. Although...it was a Master that gave her a Rock plushie too. "Which....someone?" she asks.

Wind Man hesitates a moment, pausing to calculate the risk of revealing what he'd done. But this was Twila, not Bass, or even a more peaceable Master, and wasn't likely to get him in trouble. "I notified Mega Man, by way of a radio transmission, of your state of mind, and your location."

Wind Man says, "He said that he would come soon. I felt an honor guard was appropriate in the mean time."

Twila looks away and squeezes the backpack tighter to herself, feeling the toy bear within. "Why? He won't come. He didn't last night," she chokes out, then begins moving again.

Wind Man pauses a moment, accessing his datafiles, to run through the information the spycam got on Rock for him last night. "I'm sure he had excellent reason.... Ah, and here he is now, so, if you'll excuse me, I believe I'll be going..." he clouds up and starts to take off towards the sea quietly.
Wind Man points at Rock on takeoff and, while she has her back turned, discretely drops a small spycam to hover juuuuust behind her.

When the Master makes his announcement Twila stares towards his direction, not even readily seeing if Rock is there...or not actually. He may be. But...

Indeed, Rock /is/ there. He is slowly walking down the boardwalk, in the clothing he was in last night, not having had the time or inclination to change. His aviator's jacket ripples in the ocean breeze... his fashionably messy hair waving about in the wind. He stands there, where it was Wind pointed. He stands there, having come up mostly silent on his sneakers. He follows Wind's departure with his eyes for a moment... and he looks slowly to Twila, those Sapphire Blues intent upon her. He /is/ there.

Perhaps he is, perhaps he isn't. Twila...still doesn't look, lost within her own confusion amidst other emotions. After all, if Rock had been concerned he would have gone after her soon after she left the concert hall and not waited...wouldn't he? Instead...he stayed away, leaving Twila...well, not knowing what to make of it. She edges on a little, just grateful the Master actively left her alone. It was enough that an entire group came and tried to sway her earlier.

Slowly, soft footfalls along the beach are heard. And the figure begins to follow Twila... making his way foward after her down along the beach. This is truly one of their favorite places, the soft quiet of the beach... the waves lapping on the shore, the presence of life a good distance away... And Rock makes his way towards Twila. He will make sure they don't interfere anymore... this is something the pair of them needed to have done last night. Carefully he walks forward, shaking his head slowly... as if arguing with himself... trying to reason out what to say that wont make him sound like any more of a shmuck. But when he reaches Twila... it's all he can do to utter one word...

"Hi..."

The young woman shudders as the small greeting is given. Her grip tightens on her backpack for more security than...anything else. She well knows that voice. And now that she hears, and now knows he's here, she's not certain what to do. She attempts to give a greeting back in kind...but all she can manage is a strangled, "Why?"

Rock only stands there for the longest time, his eyes slowly closing, listening to her choked word, knowing the pain he has given her. Rock slowly lowers his head... and he has to summon every ounce of his will, being, and internal power... to speak.

"Why? ... I..."

A sigh, his voice coming out very weak indeed.

"I... ... It wasn't..."

Rock sighs again... internally calling himself ten types of an idiot in twenty different languages...

Finally Twila does turn towards him, still holding her bundle. Security now...or some sort of makeshift shielding. "You're able to rush out in a second's notice if there's some sort of trouble going on. And yet when it's personal all you can do is just sit there and stare," she shakily accuses. After a sniff she gets out, "What would have happened if this was reversed?"

Rock keeps his eyes closed, taking each remonstration as a blow, physically flinching from each. Slowly, his eyes open, but he keeps his head lowered... "I... would act as you are now." Rock sighs softly. "I... ... I thought I should let you go, and let you deal with it... in your mind first... It... wasn't my fault. All I could do was... sit there... as it happened. I couldn't even move... I... couldn't have... done... anything..." His words start strong... but trail off into soft, half whispers, and he sighs softly. -_-

"I... don't have much... experience in relationships. I... don't know what to do... or say... but... I'm sorry..." This is said softly, but with a slight inner firmness, drawing on his inner reserves to propel him through this, trembling slightly with fear, self-loathing, concern, and so many emotions he wonders if something is wrong with his neural matrix...

Spy Cam just watches all this with interest, recording and sending to Windy, who regards this as something like a holo-soap.... too emotional for his sensors...

Twila's features allow more of her pain as well as confusion to become more apparent. She set's down the pack to her side and turns her gaze away from Rock, looking towards the ocean. Surprisingly, her words speak of something else. Related perhaps...but not in a way first thought. "Ever since I was little I dreamed of having a husband...children. I still think about it sometimes. After you, I resolved there wouldn't be anyone else...ever. But...last night hurt, Rock. I didn't need room to think or sort things out on my own. I needed you and you weren't there."

The Blue Bomber takes every word, every sound, every syllable as a blow, etching them onto his internals like scars. A sigh comes from his lips, and he slowly turns, raising his head to look out to the ocean, his voice soft, understanding, and filled with his own pain. "I... see that." Rock sighs. "I... have never loved... or been loved... before you. I have never done this before. Each step I take... is new..." Rock sighs once more. "I... didn't know. I... thought when you ran... you didn't want to talk to me. I... am sorry." Rock closes his eyes, lowering his head, and speaks the words that nearly overload his systems while he tries to say them. "If you want... to find someone else... I will..." There is an inward, choked back sound... a sob? His voice is barely controlled as it is... "...understand..." And down slowly, falling down past him to land on the sand, dripping onto the surf worn soil are soft droplets... tears... and the slow lapping of the waves up onto the shore sweeps over them and carries them away...

At the soft noises Twila gazes towards Rock through her own tears, features softening. Her arms, now free of the weight, rise to hold herself as if holding the emotions raging within. She doesn't say anything for the longest time. She only studies him silently. "There is no one else," she whispers, not bothering to wipe away the wetness staining her cheeks.

Rock closes his eyes, tears continuing to fall from his own cheeks. Rock's own hands rest in the pockets of the jacket he was wearing last night, and his body is hunched slightly, as if fearing another blow will fall. He can feel her eyes on him, and softly... he responds to her whisper with one of his own. "There... will never be... anyone else for me... but you..."

Ever so slowly Twila unwraps her arms and edges a little closer to the reploid. A hand raises itself to lightly touch his shoulder as she struggles to know how to reply. "I'm sorry too...for forgetting. Could you...forgive me?"

Rock almost flinches from the touch, but forces it back, remaining still as she rests her hand on his shoulder. Slowly, he raises his head, his cheeks damp with tears, straightening from his slight hunch... and slowly he raises his own hand up to touch hers on his shoulder, his head turning to look into her eyes. His voice is a soft whisper... "...If you... can forgive... me..." Rock gazes down to her, his own face showing how much pain he too has been in during the past night and day... he didnt recharge or even change last night, staying all night out on the edge of the Hangar watching the stars. "I am sorry, Twila... I do... forgive you..." Rock chokes back in a second sob, a relieved one... finding what he needs in her eyes...

The young woman let's out a breath she wasn't aware of holding, as is seeing his state for the first time. Not that hers is much better. Despite going home to the labs and crying herself to sleep she hasn't changed or eaten either. As she nods she gently squeezes his hand. "I do forgive you, Rock. How can't I? I love you."

The Blue Bomber gazes down into those eyes, taking her hand slowly into his and returning the soft squeeze. Her words are like a release, and instantly the knot of pain around his fuel pump vanishes away. He turns fully to face her, reaching up with his free hand and slowly cups her cheek, his thumb softly wiping the moistness upon it away. "I love you too, Twila Peterson..." And Rock steps foward, and draws her into an embrace, a loving, tight, emotion filled embrace that lasts for a long... long time as they stand there apon the beach, the sun slowly beginning to set in the distance.

Twila tightly holds the reploid to her, resting her head on his shoulder...not wanting to let him go. And indeed she doesn't for the longest time, saying nothing but enjoying his closeness and warmth. All other concerns seem minute at the moment...every last one of them. What seems like an eternity later she lifts her head back up and raises her hand. Slowly, she wipes Rock's own tears away with the handkerchief one of the visiting Masters had given her. 'I...didn't mean to make you cry."

Rock doesn't let go either for the longest time, just holding Twila close to him. Every last concern of his is also gone, Kaust, the Spiders, The Masters, the Mavericks. Everything. It vanishes from his head in a blur, suffused out due to the warm glow spreading through him. Love, and being Loved. And indeed, when she wipes away his tears after raising her head, it does seem like it had been an eternity, though only minutes had passed. He softly whispers to her... "I am sorry I made you cry as well..." And Rock leans foward, brushing lips softly over her cheeks, brushing the tears away with his own soft lips

The girl smiles softly as he wipes her tears in his own way, allowing him to do just that...until moments later she turns her head slightly so that after several his lips "accidentally" brushes against hers. Her eyes close as she holds it there, a fleeting thought occurring of their very first kiss.

The Blue Bomber is caught by surprise with the kiss, his eyes opening wide for an instant and his cheeks burn like the fires of the sunset on the horizon... then his eyes close... and he returns the kiss. Slowly, for long, long minutes... one arm slowly going down around her waist, the other sliding up and behind her head, slipping under her hair as he deepens the kiss. The Blush remains, even now, he cannot make it go away...

And the Camera pulls back... showing the pair on the beach shore, the setting sun behind them. Mega Man and the woman he loves.

And the Romantic Music that has been playing in the background builds to a cresendo of happiness and joy as the pair share this passionate, loving kiss...

And someone far away in another reality speaks softly to the story he is telling his grandson. 'There have been three kisses that have been judged the most Passionate, the most Pure. This one swept them all behind...'

When their lips part, Twila also offers the reploid's forehead a loving kiss as well before resettling her eyes on him. She's silent for the longest time, then breaks the silence. "Wish we could stay out here forever..." she muses softly, even though she knows they really can't.

Rock offers a slow, soft, relieved sigh as the kiss is placed on his forehead, and he nods slowly, gazing down into her eyes after he slowly reopens his own eyes. He offers a tender, soft, loving smile to her... whispering. "We can at least watch the sun set... then... we can go back to the base..." Rock continues to hold her close, his eyes turning to the setting sun.

Twila's on reply is to rest her head again gently on her shoulder, feeling very much loved, safe, and comforted. "Remember when you showed me the first sunset here...on this beach?"

The Blue Bomber smiles, holding her close, head raised and looking out apon the sunset, the light illuminating them where they stand, the waves licking at their feet. "Yes... I do..." Rock smiles softly, reaching up to slowly stroke her hair.

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From: Morgaine (Conn)
Date: Sat Dec 30 22:00:30 2000 Folder: 0 Message: 4
Status: Read
Subject: Vidmessage sent to Rock and Twila
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(Morgaine appears on-screen, a little concerned) "..I would like to explain the incident.. last night." A pause. "..You see, we have recently worked through some choreography with a new holographic system that would activate during my concerts. It would allow me to appear to vanish from stage and float through the audience, fly, etc. Last night was the trial run.. and someone hacked into it." She pauses, as a sketchy photo of Yang appears in the corner of the message, and Morgaine gestures at it. "..This is the photo we got of the individual. I recognize him vaguely; he's been at my other concerts. Whatever his purpose was - and apparently the intent was clear only at the end of last night - it failed. I apologize to both of you for what occurred, and I can assure you that it was not really myself that kissed you, X, but it was, in actuality, a hard-light hologram. We're currently working out the bugs in the system to make sure nothing of the sort happens again."
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