For Love of the Game
The Characters
Dawn: {Played by Dream_dancer14, font color Deepsky Blue.}
Spike: (Played by Dream_dancer14, font color Tan. }
Brad: (Played by Darkblade, font color Royal Blue. }
Gabrielle: {Played by Amazonwarrior7, font color Deep Pink. }
Kree: {Played by Celestial_forces, font color Dark Green. }
Braeden: {Played by Megabookworm 22, font color Apple Juice. }
Que: {Played by Amazonwarrior7, font color Silver. }
Riley: {Played by Moonwarrior13, font color White. }
Atticus: {Played by Dream_dancer14, font color Cadet Blue. }
Aislin: {Played by Megabookworm22, font color Teal. }
Quinn: Played by Prof_snape, font color Olive. }
Veronica: {Played by Pixie_312, font color Dark Gray. }
The home ship of the mutant force had adjoined to the vast mother ship of the Olympic games just a few hours ago, once again reinforcing the fact that this was real.. So real.. Various races of aliens clamored across the platform, parts of which were visible through the door. Leaned up against the steel door, was Dawn, and beside her, Spike. “Look at them,” She sighed some of the first words she had spoken ever since the ships had joined, “They’re all so different from one another…”
And she was right.. Not a one fitted the stereotypical view of an alien.. No bulging eyeballs, spherical heads, or vomit-green hues of skin. There was one little group that looked much like a little race of enlarged squirrels without the bushy tail; one group bared a striking resemblance to a human race, except for the fact that they were slightly transparent.. And one group took Dawn’s breath away.. They looked like Elves! Beautiful flowing gowns adorned the features of the women while the men were garnished with an array of leather apparel. “They’re beautiful..” Dawn breathed lightly.
“I bloody hope your not talkin’ about that crew over there..” Spike growled, jutting a thumb to the area that hadn’t been visible to Dawn until she moved to take a look, “They look like monsters to me…” And right he was. Giants congregated to the left, some looking rather dull witted, though some seemed to be well rounded in character. But they were huge! “Oh yeah,” Spike smirked, “sign me up for their team..”
“Alright, you humans..” Atticus drawled, coming up on the two already assembled there, “I’ve summoned the rest of your team. Remember, your first impression is the strongest.. Don’t go out there looking like you’ve never encountered another race before… And one more thing.. You will all be implanted with a translation chip, that way communication between you and others won’t be prohibited…”
“Why of course they’ve encountered another race,” Came a sardonic, yet oddly honest reply from the dark haired male approaching the gathered mutants. With a slight smirk, Que gave a nod towards Dawn and Spike, acknowledging their presence. “I am, after all, not of Earthly origin.” His speech had mysteriously lost it’s colloquial tone, and had shifted back to make the man appear just as self-righteous and arrogant as ever. Attitude was everything. Especially to Que. With the company of several other life-forms, Que knew that an impression would have to made. And one that reflected the team’s inner strength.
Shifting his gaze back to Atticus, a single eye brow arched as the man continued, “Surely you’ve heard of the Q Continuum.”
Gabrielle arrived mintues after Que had, her bag of supplies slung over her right shoulder, and in her left hand, a bag of Twizzlers was grasped tightly by slender fingers. “We’re going to need food.” She remarked calmly, an air of indifference in her voice. No sense in adding more stress into an already tense situation.
Tearing a piece of licorice free from it’s wrapper, the young woman began to chew on it’s edge, as glanced around at the various other alien species that had been summoned. She stepped closer to the door, and peered at the odd figures for several seconds before turning back towards her friends. Being no stranger to competition, Gabrielle smiled and declared, “We can take them.”
"Wow..small, er, universe.." he said, looking around. "Why is it that all of these being met eachother before they met Earthlings...although..those squirrel things look like mutant Earthlings.." He said, looking at the tailless-squirrel type things. He clutched the rabbit's foot in his pocket. He had also found a rather large package of Milk Duds in his hoodie pocket and poured a few out onto his hand, offering them to the others.
If he could say that he wasn't nervous, he would be lying. Looking around, he would have rather stayed at home. 'No..your being selfish' he thought. Then again, he had no clue what on earth..or..spaceship they had to do...
Metallic steps moved towards the group that was slowly forming. Brad gazed at them absently, his slightly fogged eyes adding more to the idea of his mind being else where. Since the left Earth his paranoid mind had been mainly concerned with strategic maneuvers that could be useful to them in their quest for Earth’s salvation from a fate the planet could end up coming against.
But now his mind was upon “sizing up” the competition. His gaze was upon the groups moving around ahead of them. Many certainly seemed worthy adversaries. Some showing signs of great agility; others strength. And many in between.
“When does this begin?” Brad finally asked, his brow furrowing as he asked of no one in particular. His gaze was still upon the extraterrestrial races outside that door. Yet, to call them aliens when they were no longer on Earth seemed hardly fair.
There was always something that was brought to a battle when the duo of Dawn and Gabrielle was united: fierce competition! It never failed. One could always count on the two young women to turn any sort of “Fate of the entire world” melee into nothing short of an all out brawl for bragging rights. And the other students looked to that, you know? The dire consequences of an issue often plagued Dawn until she stepped foot onto the battleground, and she had arrived! “Oh yeah, we can take ‘em…”
“Oh bloody hell, don’t tell me your on –that- trip again!” Spike groaned, slightly stomping his feet as he glared at Que. “And here I was thinking-”
Stretching out a hand, Atticus shoved the lever down, letting the door rise. “The Q Continuum? Really?” A smirk graced the lips of the young man, “Oh.. Yes, I have heard.. And you… You’re the one that they, what, banished? Becoming to earth like I suppose.. Well, turned out for the better, at least the humans have one that is familiar to the races…
Stepping past Atticus, glaring at him a moment before she emerged from the ship, Dawn stood in awe of the scene before her. Tremendous transparent shields enshrouded the entire ship, or so she figured, for when looking up, she could see a little glimmer of a glassy like substance. Not many of the others turned to observe the humans, but some looked utterly amused. “Well, well, looks like we’re famous…”
“I am not banished.” Que retorted, brushing past the other alien as he moved passed the now open doorway. “I am merely.. Reassigned..” His voice trailed at the end, as his own eyes fell upon the numerous beings within the room. “Don’t flatter yourself,” Que laughed, idly brushing off lint from the sleeves of his suit. “They’re admiring me. It’s not everyday they’re graced with the presence from a member of the Continuum.” Odds were, the many pairs of eyes were in fact, not on Que, but upon the gathering of rather young humans.
Sensing the need for a subject change, he motioned towards Spike, “Either that or they’re shocked by your white-ness..”
Now able to have an unobstructed view into the gathering area, Gabrielle couldn’t help but feel that her statement before was not totally off base. Indeed, there were a few species whose physical appearance suggested that they’re performance would not be of any concern to the mutants. But perhaps it was just wishful thinking.
After hiding her Twizzlers from view, Gabrielle followed shortly behind Dawn. “We’re being sized up, too…” She remarked, offering a satirical wave towards those who had made eye contact with her, and at times, offered a sharp jab of her head towards them as well. One thing was for sure, they would not be out-intimidated
"Maybe this will work.." he said, morphing into his normal lizardy self. Although he did seem to be shrinking by the second, every other being in this place looked as though they could crush him. Even the squirrels.
Once all of those on the mutant team had exited the ship, Atticus let the door slid back down, then headed to the front where Dawn and Gabrielle stood. “Most of the beginning sporting events have an equivalent to your Earth games.. If you survive those, the others I’ll inform you of later..”
“Oh, we’ll survive..” Dawn smirked, crossing her arms across her chest before nodding towards what appeared to be a Coliseum in the distance. “So, our first game is?”
A game much like your Earth baseball game.” Atticus nodded, motioning for them to follow him across the pathways of the alien city, “Except with a little more at stake..” He rather not play tour guide for the group, but what else could he do? The metallic city streets glimmered lightly under their feet as they passed by the random groups of aliens. Some stared, but other than that, everyone kept relatively to themselves. Though the games were rather barbaric, those who participated usually weren’t.. It can’t be forgotten that most were forced to compete… They were in the same boat as those from Earth… “Anyway, a electronic device is strapped to your back, and when you ‘strike out’ you’re shocked.. When a ball you hit is caught, you’re shocked.. And if you get out, you’re shocked…” Atticus winced lightly, “If you do anything wrong, you’re shocked…”
In a matter of moments, the Coliseum was right in front of the crew.. A display screen above the walls flickered with an array of lights. “Well well,” Dawn mused, eyeing their team and their opponent, “Looks like we’re gonna be teaming up with those elf-like people over there.. Taking on ‘em Giants over there.. What d’ya say, Gabby? Think we can take ‘em?”
Gabrielle had been listening intently during the most of Atticus’s speech. Actually, she tuned up out a few seconds after the word “baseball” was used. Eyes of blue scanned the coliseum, as she took in the sheer size of the giants that they and the elves were about to compete against. True, their size might prove to be an advantage to them at the plate, but in the field, it would be a hindrance.
“Hot damn!” The blonde shouted, realizing that this game would probably be the one she would be the most useful in. “We’re playing my kind of softball!” Excitement was evident not only in her rather enthusiastic reply, but also in her demeanor. Gone were her timid habits and the real Gabrielle had once again emerged. “Heck yeah we can take them! We'll kick Giant Booty!”
”Hello? Anyone here listening to reason? How can we possibly hope to stop them from hitting back to back homeruns?” Que shouted, tapping both of the women upside their heads. “Their strike zone is huge.. There’s no way you could strike those guys out!”
During the journey between the human Earth and the mother ship of the grand Alien Olympics, Atticus had been quickly briefed by Dawn on a few of those that were on the mutant force. Spike was the resident vampire turned freedom fighter, or so it seemed. Que, the resident alien, abandoning the laws of his people to help out those that had taken him in during their times of need. Gabrielle, the energetic fighter, always ready for a challenge, gifted with the mutant powers of energy ball/blasts and flight. Dawn, the psychic, and empowered Phoenix. Brad and Quinn, both students gifted with powers that would prove useful, especially the dramatic change that occurred when Brad was placed in a serious situation.. “Don’t forget, my friend,” Atticus smirked in regards to Que’s rather pessimistic frame of thought, “You all aren’t coming in at a disadvantage.. You aren’t humans! You have powers… Use them…”
Que pondered silently for a moment at Atticus’s words. True, his power could actually serve a purpose for this event as well. With the snap of his fingers, literally, he would be from one base to the next. If nothing else, base running would be his main contribution to the game. “You make a good point.” He finally admitted, knowing it was best to take advantage of Atticus’s wisdom, in this case.
”Yes, yes - this is all fine and good.” Gabrielle interrupted, pointing a finger towards the colliseum. “But when do we get to -play-?”
Her orangish-red eyes darted around. Her lips were curled into a snarl as she struggled against the guard's mighty grip to her shackled wrists. Her face had a feline-look, but a velociraptor's maw, and the teeth of one as well. "Kuro-nagi!" She screeched, finally leapt at the guard, kicking him in the back of the head. Her feet looked like a cat's paw, except for the large toes, which were also of the velociraptor's. Her obsidian fur glistened as her large lizard-tail whirled when she spun around, knocking the guard flat. Taloned hands darted to grab the key, but was knocked over by other guards that rushed her. A yelp-like sound escaped her. What did she wear? A corset-looking top with what appeared to he cargo-like shorts. Curling up in a tight ball to protect herself, one of the guards glanced at Atticus and the others there. "She's here for the games.." He said to them in explanation, his tone monotonous.
“A female Orikir?” Atticus questioned the guard, “having been issued to our team by the guards can mean one of two things: the number of your team is a little on the short side, or the team of her world didn’t make it to the Olympics.. So, which is it?” It was widely known the consequences of a World that refused the Alien Olympics…
"Karu kerki, gangu sarska. Hugar nuraki kuro!" She hissed at Atticus, glaring at him while baring her sharp fangs.
|X| Game Time |X|
Oddly enough, ball diamonds looked the same outside of Earth’s boundaries. The same iridescent shimmer that had been spotted on the outer boundaries of the ship was also protecting the numerous spectators from any projectile that would endanger them. In fact, the only real distinct difference of the entire arena was the fact that instead of red dirt in the infield, the sand was a bit more coarse, and colored to be sky blue.
While she was accustomed to a similar version of the game, softball, Gabrielle was more than confident in not only the fielders which would back her up, but also at the person behind the plate. With the combination of her own uncanny good aim and Dawn’s mental techniques, the pair would most definitely prove to be a force to be reckoned with.
There was an eerie sort of silence settling in among the crowd as it grew ever closer to game time. It would seem, that all present knew the high stakes of this event, and the horrible cost it would mean to fail. But the blonde standing atop the pitcher’s mound blocked everything out of her mind, focusing only on warming up. For within minutes, the umpire was sure to call up the first batter. Squinting against the ambient overhead lighting, Gabrielle gave a quick glance to the fielders behind her, motioning them to get ready, and that the time to start was near.
Dawn, who was already set, kneeling behind home plate, lifted her glove somewhat awkwardly. Not that she wasn’t used to playing the game, it was just, the blue dirt? It had to be toxic or something.. And she was going to be inhaling whatever it was that was making the dirt blue! Forcing the thought out of mind, Dawn grinned broadly, winking to Gabrielle. “We have this, guys!” She called out, both mentally and verbally, so even the outfielders would get the little positive reinforcement, “We have it…”
Spike stood directly on top of the First base bag.. thing… Yeah yeah, it was baseball.. Not his favorite sport of all time… “I don’t know why you bloody put me here,” He grumbled, crossing his arms across his chest instead of waving all cheery-like like some of the others were. Not like he had ever played the game before, I mean, most baseball games are played when there is –sun- out.. But he was told to catch it, and keep a foot on the base. Well, he’ll do ‘em one better! He’ll keep BOTH feet on base!
Riley stood in right field with a glove on her right hand. She glanced around the field, feeling strange. She had about two years of rec experience not to mention the embarrassing 9th grade PE class experience. She knew she was not ment to be out here. She wasn't an athlete, she didn't have an athletic bone in her body. She glanced around and watched as the others took their positions around the field. From her stand point they all seemed pretty confident, especially Gabby. Come Riles, stop being so pessimistic. You wanted to come on this trip now pull your weight. She told herself as she crouched down in a position she remembered being taught in pee wee league. She twisted her face so that she looked determined and prayed inwardly to whatever Gods existed that she wouldn't make a fool of herself.
"Okay... I'll stand... here?" Kree thought aloud, taking position in third base. Her mild knowledge of sports involving the little base thingies and the person who hit the ball then ran around the little base thingies... was mild, in the least, but she understood it basically. Basically and vaguely. "I'm ready!" she shouted, grinning madly and waving her hands about in the air.
Positioned squarely between third and second base, a slow wave of a slightly tanned hand was all the response Que could force himself to do. Truth was, he didn’t like games that involved physical activities. He usually opted to partake in things that challenged his intellect, not his muscles. However, it would seem that he would have to make do with the hand that was dealt to him.
Que’s choice to play the position of short-stop was based mainly on the fact that he was without a great deal of speed, but assumed that he could simply teleport to the ball, then throw it to whichever base it was to go towards. A soft sigh escaped from the tall male’s lips. “Such barbaric events.”
Eyes of brown shifted over towards first base, where he spotted Spikeh. “You better catch that ‘bloody’ ball, Vampire. Or else --”Que growled, his statement cut short by an official ordering the first giant up to the plate.
Watching as the batter placed one, huge, foot inside the batter’s box, Gabrielle gulped loudly. Sure, she had seen large ball-players before.. But this was ridiculous.. Another foot was placed in between the white chalk lines, and the massive opponent stood ready, pale eyes glaring at the those positioned in the field.
With a shrug of her shoulders, the young woman awaited a signal from Dawn. Hopefully, her friend would call for inside pitches, lest the giants get an opportunity to extend their powerful arms..
Riley made one last sweep of the field noting who each person at each base was. She knew most of them probably had powers that would help them, but she had nothing. She was going to have to rely on pure athletic ability...she was doomed in other words.
Hearing the sound of officials starting the game, Riley's gaze whipped towards the batter's box. Her eyes widened as she watched a huge giant step inside the batter's box. Please don't hit it to me. She thought over and over.
Jaw dropping, Kree stared in awe at the sheer size of the batter, in a stunned state, she blinked several times, as though it was simply a joke, the batter wasn't really that large! No help. Frowning, her expression changed to that of utmost concentration, with only a few minor lapses to again gape at the person who would too soon be hitting the ball.
Quick stomps into the ground pushed clouds of the blue dirt around Brad, positioning himself low to the ground as he examined the scene before him. He had picked his position of outfield mainly because of his lack of atheletic credits to the game. But he wouldn't let that get to him. He knew with such -big- opponents, a long hit was highly likely. He would make sure that didn't happen. Now if he could only put that inspiration into his playing abilities.
"We can do this!" he called, unsure if anyone even heard him. That didn't really matter. He had mainly said it to assure himself they could make it through this and win for their planet.
It was as if a massive mound of moving flesh blotted out the stadium lights-- wait a minute, they were! Dawn groaned as the giant positioned himself in the batter’s box.. Not only did the monster obstruct most of her view of her friend up on the pitcher’s mound, but he had this awful smell, like he couldn’t find the time to shower when training for the Games. Waddling over just a few baby steps, Dawn peeked around the massive legs of the Giant, waving timidly at her friend.. “Maybe I shoulda learned the signals before I volunteered to be catcher, huh?” She called mentally to her friend, shrugging lightly to prove her point, “Well, just throw a strike, and, erm, I’ll keep him from batting!”
Spike, who was still standing directly on top of the First base bag, glared over at Que, “Lot o’ confidence you have in the gits up there..” He smirked, shoving the glove tightly on his hand, “I doubt the bloke will get a chance to hit the bloody ball tonight..”
The hardest thing for Gabrielle to do at the moment was to keep herself from laughing. Though her friend’s face was blocked by the catcher’s mask, Dawn’s unspoken words suggested that she had a few tricks up her sleeve. The young woman nodded, and managed to plaster on a somewhat serious face.
Squaring herself up with third base, Gabrielle stared over her left shoulder, narrowing her glare. With a nod of her head, she brought her mitt up to her chest, and in one, fluid motion, threw the ball hard towards the inside corner of the plate.
When the giant prepared to swing, Dawn mentally forced his bat back, making him unable to swing at the pitch. As soon as the ball connected with the pocket of her glove, she heard a sizzling whir directly in front of her. That’s right.. If they win, the others lose… Sticky situation, but it was survival of the fittest, right? If the Giant had shown any inclination of pain from the shock, Dawn would not be able to use her powers to give her team a great advantage.. But, lucky for her conscious, he didn’t.. Instead, he snapped his gaze back to his team, and then down to Dawn and a throaty growl was emitted. “Strike one, buddy,” She smirked, throwing the ball back to Gabrielle.
Riley let a small 'whoop' escape from her mouth. A smile played across her face. She had nearly forgotten about Dawn's abilities. Riley suddenly felt like they had the upper hand. She felt her tense body begin to loosen up and relax.
Realizing that it was only one strike and there were many more to go, Riley dropped back into position. Her glove hung with her left hand inside. She was ready for action. Her face took on another determined look and she watched intently. She was careful to keep her body relaxed though. She would only do harm to her muscles by being tense and playing. "Come on guys we got this." She whispered to herself.
Catching the ball tossed back at her, Gabrielle again turned to her side, and shifted her gaze back towards Dawn. With her friend‘s mental prowess, the rest of the team would probably see little, if any action during the course of the game. What do you think? She questioned silently, knowing full well Dawn would pick up on her thoughts, Let El Giant-o hit the ball?
Knowing that Dawn would agree, like she always does, Gabrielle threw the ball right down the middle of the plate, if not a little to the outside. Not only that, her speed had been cut drastically, and was now flying across the plate at least twenty miles an hour slower than it had been before. In short, it was a meat-ball. Pure and simple. She could only hope her faith in the outfield was not misplaced.
Fact was, Dawn had intended to let a few slide past, just to keep the suspicions of the audience down. Just before the ball neared the Giant at base, a hefty sized rock flew at Dawn’s back. Unknown to the mutant team, someone had tipped off the Giant force about the special abilities that the mutants held, and they were going to put a stop to that. The rock connected with the shock pack that was strapped to her back, sending a surge of electricity throughout her body. As the Giant thrashed the baseball with the bat, Dawn struck the ground, digging her fingers deep into the blue dirt. The ball was gone to the outfield, of course, but she managed to trip up the Giant just a bit, slowing him down. Her back stung, and the faint smell of singed flesh wafted through the air, “I’m alright..” She growled, pushing herself back up to her feet, casting a glare in the direction of the opposing team behind her before turning to watch the play go down.
Brad’s eyes gazed at the player at bat, his focus upon that bat. His gaze fell quickly upon Dawn, but it returned to the Giant as he saw the bat meet with the ball. He could tell it was heading towards the outfield; now he just had to get to it.
His feet clenched into the ground quickly as he pushed off, running to his right quickly as he was trying to get under it. Until the call of “I got it!” rang out. His gaze instantly turned to the young woman who was also in the outfield. He considered going for it anyway, but was soon swayed from that idea. ‘She deserves the chance,’ he thought to himself. He slowed down, eventually stopping as he just watched her.
Riley watched as the bat connected with the ball and flew straight towards the outfielders. Her gaze stayed where the batter had been since she realized that Dawn was hurt. Riley started towards home plate, but then realized that she was still in the outfield and the team was counting on her and the other outfielder to make a play. "I got it!" She yelled, starting off after the ball. She ran backwards glancing over her shoulder and headed toward center field since that appeared to be the direction of the ball. Sprinting as hard as she could her glove arm slightly outstretched she tried to keep up with the ball. Run faster! She yelled in her mind as she continued her race against the ball. She watched the ball begin to dip downward at a fast rate and she unconsciously jumped out to try and meet it. Feeling the ball hit her glove, she began to smile, but as she squeezed to take hold the ball popped out and fell to the ground. She glanced around in alarm and then picked up the ball. Great now I have to throw it! She thought to herself as she yanked her arm back and threw the ball with all her might in the direction of second base where there should be somebody covering it.
Gabrielle ignored the giant’s powerful swing as it was allowed to make contact with the baseball, for she had seen the rock as it was being thrown towards her friend, but could not speak up in time to warn her. “What the hell was that?” She shouted, already several feet away from the mound, ready to approach the opposing team’s dugout. True, they were in a game for their lives, but that never made underhanded attempts to even out the playing field acceptable. “You think those shocks -they- give you are bad, just wait until -I- get done with you!”
Instead of pursuing the offender, Gabrielle turned her attention back towards Dawn, and walked towards her. “You sure you’re alright?” She asked, glaring coldly back towards the giants, “We’ll get them back, don’t worry.. “This had all been a game before.. Now, it was war. “Let the next one hit too,” She advised, motioning towards Spike with a jab of her head. “He’ll instill some fear into them.”
After a friendly shove, Gabrielle opened up her mitt to receive the baseball from Que, who had managed to cover second base and get the ball back in. Returning to the mound, she raised a single finger into the air, letting the team know how many were on base.
Riley returned to her position in right field, red in the face from anger and embarassment. She had been so close, but of course she had dropped the ball. She tried to force herself to calm down, but everytime she could imagine it just coming within reach and falling out it. Shaking her head slightly, Riley focused on Dawn. The woman had clearly stated she was alright, but Riley was having a hard time fighting down her 'Healer Instinct.' At the moment all she wanted to do was go up and check and make sure any major organs and such weren't fried to a crisp. She shook her head again and told herself she would check on Dawn after the game. She had a feeling before the end of this she would be checking on the rest of the team as well. As she waited for the next batter, she turned her head slightly to gaze at the pack on her back. She found it repulsive since it signified pain and suffering, but she could do nothing about it. It was in the rules that you had to wear it after all. Turning her gaze back to infield she waited for the next pitch.
“Back at you, ya damned fool…” Spike snapped at the extraterrestrial umpire that hadn’t made any sort of call against the opposing team that had obviously taken winning into their own hands. When the surge of electricity had shaken Dawn, he took off towards the Umpire, demanding that something be done; though his efforts were in vain. Seeing that Gabrielle had returned to the mound, and that Dawn was okay, Spike took stance again, into the game more than ever.
|X| Giant on First Base |X|
The ball connected with his glove, and Spike covered it, making sure that it would not leave the mitt until he was ready. Stamping a foot down on the bag, he smirked when he heard the umpire call an out. The Giant had barely missed the call, and was a little slow to trek back to his dugout “Let me give ya a little message ta tell all your friends back there..” Spike growled, just loud enough for the Giant to hear, “Tell them if they mess with my team again, they won’t live 7 blood innings…”
With a runner on second and one out, Gabrielle’s instinct was screaming: “get the lead runner”. After getting two strikes on the batter, he too, was allowed to hit one, and this time, it was a hard grounder towards third base. And the giant, assuming such a small girl would be easy to maul over, sprung to life and darted towards the base, and tried to slide in under the impending tag.
Kree focused intently on the Giant bolting towards her, "No you don't..." she said to herself, waiting for the ball to come within range of her catch, but the Giant was proceeding too quickly. Sighing, the girl decided to do something a little dramatic. Forming a comet, she sent it towards the runner, hindering his progress slightly by tapping at his shoulders. Taking a step back, placing her foot more firmly on the base, she smirked at the runner slightly, and caught the ball.
|X| The Bottom of the 9th Inning. The Mutants Trail by One Point. |X|
Shoving off the catcher’s mask, Dawn motioned for all to retreat to their dugout, for they had survived another encounter with the race of Giants. Taking a seat up against the wall, Dawn doubled over, removing the extra pieces of equipment in the process. Taking a sip of water from a bottle beside her, Dawn cleared her throat, “Alright, it looks like we have speed working for us.. I’ll take first bat, just to get it over with, if that’s alright…”
Without waiting for much of a reply, Dawn stood, left the dugout, and grabbed a helmet and bat. Taking a few practice swings, she neared the plate, eyeing the catcher that was awkwardly kneeling behind the base carefully. It looked as if he’d need help to pull away from the scrunched position he was forced into. Not much a problem there, huh? Tapping the tip of the bat against the plate, Dawn motioned that she was –
“Agh!”
The ball had been thrown at top speed before Dawn could even get into batting stance. It was indeed a strike, which set off the system on her back, leaving her to reel back in momentary pain. She was ready this time.. A smirk played across the pitcher’s face as he let another one fire out, but Dawn was prepared, and she slowed the ball just enough for her to get a perfect connection, sending it flying to the outfield. Tossing her bat towards the dugout, she dashed towards the bases. First base.. Second… Third… Seeing the ball fly towards the pitcher, Dawn halted on Third, holding her arms out to balance herself. “See?” She mouthed, not sure if her team would be able to see her or not, “Speedy!”
|X| Meanwhile... |X|
Braeden and Aislin had been following the other group of their fellow Earthlings at a slight distance when they saw something peculiar. Shock packs. Now Braeden was very invested in the outcome of this game, but being electro-shocked didn't sound very appealing to him.
"Hey, Aislin, want some cotton candy?"
She nodded eagerly, not impressed with the painful gadgets either. The two trotted off to a nearby vendor who sold lots of goodies. "Two cotton candies please. And maybe some hot dogs... And some soda." He placed the items on the counter before him and stared at the children expecting some sort of payment. They were starving but didn't have any money. "Just follow me," he whispered to his sister. "Uh, one more thing, can we get some nachos? They're my sis' favorite."
Just as the man turned around to retreive the order, Braeden snatched as much of the food as possible, nodding for Aislin to do the same. Unfortunately, the vendor had an eye set squarely in the back of his bald, greenish head. Behind him, he could hear the man yell for help, but Braeden concentrated solely on running and making sure Aislin kept up.
After putting as much distance between them and the crime scene as possible, the duo stopped for a break. "That was fun. Now what do you want to do?"
Huffing and puffing in a deserted alleyway, Aislin could not believe what had just happened. A few days ago she was napping contently in her greenhouse, now she was a criminal in an alien civilization. What was more unbelievable was Braeden's nonchalant attitude.
"Uh, I don't know. Maybe we should try to keep an eye on the others." With that, they headed towards the spectator entrance to the stadium and found some nice seats just by third base where they could see much of the action that will be going on.
As she saw many familiar faces take their places on the field, Aislin stood up and started cheering. Noticing some of the menacing faces staring at her, she closed her mouth and took a seat, quite content to not draw any unnecessary attention to herself or her brother.
|X| Back to the Game |X|
A drop of sweat was forming on Brad’s forehead as he watched Dawn reach third, gulping slightly. He finally made his decision. “I’ll go next,” he proclaimed, grabbing a helmet and bat without checking for an interjection. He would rather get it over with now then wait until more pressure was upon him.
He approached the left side of the batter’s box with swift movement, quickly getting into a stance before the pitcher could decide to pull the same trick on him that he had on Dawn. Now he just had to remember to keep his eye on the bal-
“Strike one!” came the call from the umpire, and Brad noticed a hint of laughter upon his tone. It was becoming slightly obvious who this ump wanted to win. Brad didn’t have long to consider this, however, for suddenly he felt a violent jolt in the square of his back. “Gah,” he merely let out, his neck muscles tensing as his eyes quickly closed. They then reopened, his eyes of a foggier hue. This of course showed his power was taking more control.
His mouth formed into a rather hateful grimace, his glare upon the ball that had just been returned to the pitcher. How he wanted to attack that pitcher. Yet that wasn’t the way to win. The only way to defeat these extraterrestrials was too beat them in this game. And Brad would try his hardest to make sure that happened.
All of Brad’s focus was upon that ball as the pitcher threw the ball with amazing speed. It seemed, to him, as if nothing else was there except him, his bat, and that ball. He then swung, and his ears were glad to hear that crack that is given after a hit. He dropped the bat quickly, taking off to first as fast as his legs would allow him. Though the ball hadn’t gone high at all, he had hit it with enough force to atleast make sure it wouldn’t be caught to cause an out.
He ran into the bag with a small leap, stopping abruptly a few seconds before the ball came to the first baseman. Brad gave him a sly grin as he took in a deep gasp to regain his breath.
The hit that Brad made was perfect for Dawn to dash towards the home plate. Seemingly, the Giants were more interested in the one that had just hit the ball, not the one that could score the first point. Leaping up into the air, Dawn came down, both feet, on the home plate, sending a wave a blue dust up. “Looks like first point goes to us…” She smirked, offering a wink to her team in the dugout as she jogged towards them, “Good hit Brad!” She called, leaning up against the dugout wall, “Keep it up, you guys!”
Riley had been sitting silently on the bench, but as she realized that the crack of a bat meant that somebody had hit the ball she stood up. She glanced around and spoke softly. "I'll go next." She spoke once more, a little bit louder thinking that maybe the others hadn't heard her. "I'll go next she said.
She grabbed a helmet and jammed it on her head. Then testing out a few bats by lifting them, she chose one she figured she could handle well. Telling herself to relax, she walked out onto the field and started toward the batters box. She entered the batters box and quickly dropped into a stance, she had seen the others use. Bringing the bat, up so that so that her hands were even with her ear, she prepared to swing.
She watched as the first pitch came zooming in at an amazing speed and before she knew what was happening she was swinging the bat in an attempt to hit it. She heard the sound of a ball hitting the catcher's mitt and before she had time to comprehend what had happened a jolting pain hit her in the back. "Gah!" She yelled out unconsciously and waited for the pain to subside.
She prepared herself again and once more swung and missed the ball. The jolting pain returned, but this time it was not so bad due to the fact that she had been aware and expecting it. She forced herself to breath so that she could relax and waited for the pitch.
The pitch seemed perfect and she swung the bat a third time. This time the sound of ball and wood connecting hit her ears and she realized she had actually managed to hit it. She dropped the bat where she stood and took off sprinting.
As she sprinted she watched the ball shoot between the gap that existed, or atleast would exist if giants hadn't been there, between 2nd and third. She stopped on first as she saw the Giant outfielders hurl the ball to second base.
Brad’s feet simultaneously pushed off the ground once Riley hit the ball, springing forward as he quickly made his way to second base. His legs were pumping up and down quickly, his chest heaving up and down as he took quick, short breaths.
He soon realized that the ball was heading to his destination. He pushed himself to go faster, his arms moving up and down with rapid pace as he neared the base. At the same time the ball was making its way to the second baseman. It was surely going to be close.
Brad shook his head. He wouldn’t be out. He refused to. As the ball was thrown to the giant in front of him, Brad lowered himself to the ground, his fingers spread as they then met with the earth, digging into the dirt as he flung himself forward. He was now mimicking a rather primitive motion, giving reminder of how gorillas move.
He moved towards the bag like this, moving at a much faster pace towards his target. As the ball was about to become in the baseman’s position, Brad pushed off the ground with his palms and feet, flinging under the giant into a dive as he tagged the base.
|X| Meanwhile… |X|
And what was this? The “manager” of the foe called some sort of time out walking up to the pitchers mound. All of the most important In-fielders came together into a small huddle. “We’ve got a problem…” He said, obviously in their own tongue, not wanting any of the guests to understand what they were saying. “I found a brunette hiding out in one of the rooms. I think she might have thought it was a guest room seeing that she was in mine…” He shook his head, a small smirk playing at his lips. “I found her, though. Now… what shall we do? She violated a rule… although, she looks like a adolescent… Can’t be older than 10 earth years.”
The group looked amongst each other, talking in murmurs. “Okay, I know. Make her join. I’ll go be rougher.” The pitcher declared, giving the group a broad grin. “Sounds okay… Let’s go for it.” The manager gave out a signal to one of the security people near the exits. Nodding, the armored alien brought in a girl of average height, long brown hair reaching her waist.
“Dawn!” Veronica yelled out, the guard hushing her up and pushing her towards the team’s dugout. "...Hola!" She grinned sheepishily, rubbing the back of her head some.
Hearing her name, Dawn snapped around, seeing her old friend Veronica, "What are you doing here?" She asked, laughing lightly at the sight of the girl being toted by the Giants, "You didn't come up with us, did you?"
“Uhh….” She shrugged, still grinning sheepishly. “Sort of.” She nodded, hiding a smirk and taking a seat on the bench. “I escaped in a way… They captured me while I was walking on the grass back at the school. And I just ran away from everyone and sort of hid.” She explained, not really knowing how to described what had happened. It was quite funny, really. One of those you had to be there things...
|X| Back in the Dugout |X|
She sat in the dugout with the team from earth, having to join up with them since her own did not make it. Velveteen ears perked at the slightest sound, violet eyes alert and suspiciously playful. Her clothing consisted of a loose violet turtle neck and royal purple spandex pants, her feet clad in purple and black sneakers. Around her neck was a black collar with an obsidian bell in the center, which jingled whenever she moved.
She had originally been dressed in her normal clothing of her own planet, but had found these and put them on. They were comfier than what she wore on her home planet, which was hand-made leather: itchy stuff. And even though her feet had hard pads from never wearing shoes, these were much better, protecting her from even a tac!
Turning her head, she watched the earth people play their game of baseball. Watching those up to bat, she realized that it wasn't all that hard at all. You just had to stand in a certain way, and swing when the ball came close. Then you had to run and stop at a certain base. Pretty simplistic really. Her purple lips curled into a small smile as she continued to watch them play.
Gabrielle watched with a sense of glee as one teammate after the other successfully made contact with the ball and ended up on base. Frustration was evident in the pitcher’s cold eyes, as obscene gestures were made to his fellow fielders in response to their inability to get an out.
With a casual air about her, Gabrielle’s long strides made her quickly arrive the edge of the plate. She kicked the blue-colored ground beneath her, sending up small columns of the dirt into the air. A practice swing later, the blonde was in the batter’s box, bat held at a right angel to the ground, and ready to start her duel with the pitcher.
An incoherent mumble came from the umpire behind her as the baseball whizzed to the far left of the plate. Assuming that since no shock had been given to her after the pitch, it had not been a strike. Gabrielle called time, shifted the placement of the bat in her hands, and stood ready yet again.
Within moments, the small white blur was released from oversized hands, and it’s trajectory suggested it to be coming down right down the center. The sweet spot. Seeing her opportunity, the young woman swung forcefully with the wooden bat, and a welcome cracking sound followed. That was every batter’s dream pitch, slightly off speed, right down the middle. That ball had homerun written all over it. Everyone knew it. Those in the crowd positioned right behind it’s path stood, as if wanting it for some sort of a souvenir. Even Gabrielle had slowed down her sprint to a leisurely jog as the ball neared the left field fence.
Yet unexpectedly, the giant covering that position leapt high and far into the air, seemingly defying gravity as he extended his mighty arm at the last second to pluck the ball from the sky. With a loud thud, he landed on the other side of the diamond boundaries, but instantaneously stood to show that the ball was indeed still inside his mitt.
In addition to the rather humble feeling that swept over Gabrielle, the electric shock that signaled her failure coursed through her. Using the outer surface of the dugout to brace herself, she waited until the pain had passed, and tore off her helmet, throwing it forcefully inside. “Next batter.” Gabrielle growled, folding her arms across her front as she threw herself down onto the bench. There would be no consoling the angered woman. Not yet, at least.
Riley had been prepared to run at the sound of the crack of a bat, but as Gabrielle hit the ball she found herself staring at the ball as it soared through the air.
The fact that Gabby was jogging towards her sent her running from the base. She was certain that it was going to keep going forever, or atleast over the fence, and she felt no need to work harder than she had to ensure victory.
Her eyes still on the ball, her look of glee turned to one of dismay as the Giant outfielder grasped the ball and stole away the homerun that should have belonged to the human team.
Suddenly realizing that she was almost at second, she skid to a halt and turned around. She started off at a dead sprint back to first base. She turned to see if the ball was flying towards first and found that it wasn't. She didn't give up her sprint though and stopped only when she had safely reached the bag.
Seeing as no one went to bat, she stood up and got out of the dugout, approaching first base. Taking her bat, she stood in the position she had seen the others take, and held the bat, ready for action.
The pitcher pulled the ball close to his chest, then whirled the white ball at her.
She swung, and spun around senselessly on her heel. After done with her spinning, she gave a confused, "prrt?" Shaking her head to knock away the dizziness, she took her stance once more.
The giant laughed, grinning and giving her another fastball. But this time, she hit it! Dropping the bat, she sprang to get at first base, running swiftly. Her legs pumped up and down, her tail streaming behind her while her fuchsia hair whipped about. Behind her was a cloud of blue dust.
Brad sprung from the second base as he did from the first bag, running as fast as he could to third base. Yet since it was the bottom of the final inning, he knew he couldn’t stop there. He was going to need to make it all the way home. The challenge was actually achieving that.
Running to third, he landed on the bag quickly, yet didn’t even hesitate as he made his way home. The ball was making its way around, and yet again, seemed like it was mighty close. He just couldn’t get out. He clenched his eyes closed for a second, and then let go. His thoughts raced over all the negative as he allowed his power to take full control, the muscles in his neck, arms, and legs tensing, thus causing him to lose speed. But this wouldn’t last for long. His eyes sprung open, a solid white as he instantaneously went into a full-out sprint. His body was moving with amazing speed, his legs pumping abnormally fast. He would do this. He knew he would. No one, could stop him now.
After a matter of moments he was nearing home, the ball also making towards that base. He slid into the bag, a cloud of dust lifting into the air. Once it cleared, Brad lay there on the ground on the base, his awkward gaze pointed dead at the umpire.
The umpire seemed to want to call an out, but that stare made him realize there was no lying.
“Safe!”
Brad grinned wickedly, jumping up in case anyone was coming after him as he headed back to the dugout.
Riley took off at a sprint, knowing that she had to run no matter what. She didn't even check to see where the ball was. She just kept going. She glanced around for the ball though as she rounded second and found it still in the outfield. Feeling confident, she rounded second and continued onto third.
She stopped at third though, since a play had been made and she watched as the umpire called safe. Torn between yelling with joy and running to go congratulate him on his score, she just stood there and waited to see what the rest of the team would do.
They had obviously won the game and now she was returning to reclusive nature. She took a foot off the bag, but stayed close in case the Ump decided to keep the game going despite the fact it was already won.
Her legs still pumping, she made to second base. With a mew, the girl lept, doing a cartwheel and easily landing upon the second base. Standing up, she dusted herself off, shaking her head and flicking her tail. Peering up at the rancid smelling giant, she nervously smiled up at him and waved cheerily.
He glared at her.
She gulped.
The game was fascinating. This was her first baseball game she had ever been too. She had seem some cricket back home, but this wasn't the same. Each time there was an awesome play or an out made by their team, she had to suppress her desire to clap and munched on some cotton candy or slurped her soda. Soon three outs were made and it was their turn to bat. She had managed to keep her emotions in check for most of the game, but when Gab's amazing hit was caught, she couldn't hold it in anymore and yelled. To her surprise, she was caught in the back of the head by a soda can and was told to sit down and shut up. "Why I never!" she mumbled as she retook her seat. But no matter what anyone thought, no matter how many objects bounced of her skull, there was no way she was going to remain quiet as her team won. "Let's go congratulate them!"
They both scurried down the steps and took a left when they heard a, 'hey, there they are!' It was the vendor yelling to some guards and pointing in their direction. As they began to amble towards them, Aislin used her gift to make vines grow out of the ground and wind around the guards' legs, making them tumble to the ground. "Let's just hurry up and find them!"
Standing on her feet, Gabrielle unknowingly had jumped onto her feet, and started to clap her hands rather loudly while dashing towards the opening of the dugout, and eventually made her way a few feet away from the plate itself. It soon became clear that the Brad would make it home, but it would be close. Words such as: “Run, run!” and “Get down!” had escaped from the blonde’s lips as the tense situation seemed to make everyone a bit jumpy.
As the winning run crossed the plate, the home-base umpire shouted: “That’s game!” Which really meant that the group of mutants were allowed to continue on in the Olympics, while the giants were forced to deal with aftermath of their defeat.
Gabrielle felt a slight tinge of sympathy as the giant’s faces dropped, and they sulked back to their own dugout… But this was the way of the game.. For Earth’s sake, the group of mutants would have to keep winning, even if it meant that other civilizations lost..
Immediately shifting her focus on her teammates, her spirits livened, and she hooted, hollered, and acted completely silly in response to the victory. However, the festive feeling was short lived, as all those on the field were signaled to return to the ship. An indescribable something about the indication suggested it was not to be disobeyed.
“Time to go back, guys.” Gabrielle said, a slight smile still on her face. “And I have a feeling that we’ve got a long way to go from here…”
|X| To Be Continued.. |X|
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