Joey and Changeling Part XVI (May 13)

X-Men 2020 Role-Playing Records
The following is the story in Air Raiser's X-Men 2020 RP at http://www.oocities.org/the2020rp/.

This role playing thread invovles the interaction between Joey and Changeling from the 13th of May onwards..

NOTE: Not every single posting was copied into this file. Only the posts that actually added to the plot line where added. Most of the Out Of Character (OOC) comments have been eliminated to save space. Some of the text as been changed to combine two or more different threads. If you have any problems with with this notify me, Sirah at the2020rp@yahoo.ca

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 2:18 pm
Changeling giggles at Kanga's reaction. She's still watching the roo girl when Kat turns in her direction, but one glance has her doing a double-take. Wha...? she just studies her eyes, remembering the last time she'd seen their blue.

Posted by Various on 5/13/2002, 2:30 pm
"What is that funny blue thing? It doesn't look like any mutant I've ever seen.." Kanga comments, mostly to herself.
Kat blinks a moment before Changeling's double take. She turns to look behind her, wondering if there was something strange floating behind her. When she doesn't see anything she turns back around, looking faintly puzzled.

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 2:38 pm
"You feel okay Kat?" is all she says. She doesn't want to cause any undue disress, and if the girl feels fine, there's really probably nothing to be concerned about. Right? Besides, if her sister's have multipule mutation, there's a very good chance that this is just what Vision thought it might be.
Best to play it safe in any case.

Posted by Kat on 5/13/2002, 2:41 pm
Kat blinks, sitting up a bit straighter at the question. "Err.. Yeah, why?" She looks around, wishing there was a mirror or something near. The strange looks she's receiving are starting to get to her.

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 2:52 pm
"Oh, don't worry then. I was just wondering." She hopes that Kat decides she's referring to her recent out-of-body experience.
Changeling is beginning to feel the pull of her distant heartbeat, and knows she'll have to return to it soon. She'd nearly forgotten about the help she'd recieve tonight, and is not very glad that she has friends like these Joey and Sky.

Posted by Kat on 5/13/2002, 2:58 pm
There had to be something with a reflection around here someplace, thinks Kat. A quick glance around quickly proves that there isn't. The cat girl frowns slightly, somewhat worried now. She supposed Changeling could have just been asking since she'd recently been floating free of her body.... but the double take and the strange way Kanga is eyeing her make her suspect differently. "Oh.." Is all she says. Her pupils are starting to fade back to black.

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 3:07 pm
No, nothing reflective can be seen, since this was Changeling's old refuge from when she was a vampire. There wouldn't really be a need for any mirrors. However, there's always the desk that Tracker used, or the old file cabinet...
The relief she feels shows in her face when the blue starts to fade.
She turns her attention to Joey, feeling the pull back to LA strengthen. She should probably return very soon... since the pair of angels probably wouldn't help her if she suddenly reverted to vamire again.

Posted by Kat and Joey on 5/13/2002, 5:46 pm
Kat studies Changeling, wondering what the cause of those strange looks was. She glances down at her hands, looking at the cream tabby markings on the back before flipping them over to study her furred and padded palms. Nothing had changed, that she could see anyway. She blinks, tail twitching and curling around one chair leg.
Joey glances up, suddenly aware of the same fact. He was beginning to be able to sense when Changeling would have to return to her body.
Kanga meanwhile is studying the wall and her friends eyes alternatingly.

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 5:51 pm
She smiles slightly at Joey, a kind of appologetic look, and announces for Kat's benefit "I have to go, very soon." and glances in the girls direction.
She suddenly wishes Joey could 'fall asleep' so she could at least hug him, or something before she is forced to vanish again. She doesn't know when her next chance will be to visit.

Posted by Various on 5/13/2002, 6:04 pm
Kat blinks, tilting her head in Changeling's direction. "You have to go? Why?"
Kanga blinks and looks up, following her friend's gaze to eye the area where Changeling floats. Good riddance.
Joey smiles is much the same. He's somewhat tempted to try 'falling asleep' himself, but he knows that it won't work. When he fell asleep during the day time, he's really asleep..

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 6:13 pm
"I'm not as... healthy as I should or could be, so I can't spare the energy it takes to stay here for extended periods. If I do..." she trails off and shrugs.
She catches the venom in Kanga's glance and almost laughs. Well, you can't win 'em all. Besides, why should the girl have any friendly feelings toward her anyway? She'd done nothing to warrant them, and infact, probably deserves a little of it.
After a wave of farewell to Kat, she turns back to Joey, resting a hand on his cheek and smiling her goodbie before being drawn away back to the opposite coast.

Posted by Various on 5/13/2002, 6:18 pm
Kats eyes go wide and she blinks. "Oh." She says in a quiet voice. "Um, bye.." She blinks again at Changelings farewell to Joey. She was getting a serious flash of deja vu... She glances at Kanga to see how she'd taken that, then smiles slightly when she realizes that the roo girl wouldn't have caught it. Well, at least she wouldn't have to put up with her friends indignant whining for the next week and a half.
Joey smiles back, sighing lightly when Changeling disappears.

Posted by Changeling on 5/13/2002, 6:24 pm
She races back to her body, but remains asleep, instinctively awaiting the sunset.

Posted by Tracker on 5/13/2002, 6:43 pm
Tracker makes his way back to the warehouse. He's not in his sheild since he's not expecting anyone to be hanging around the warehouse in the daytime. Joey and Sky usually just return at night to sleep, so he has no reason to suspect that it's being used at all. He opens the door to the alley and stolls right on up the stairs, with alot on his mind.

Posted by Kanga on 5/13/2002, 6:47 pm
The roo girl blinks, there's someone coming up the stairs. She glances at her friend, raising an eyebrow in question. The cat girl's eyes are wide, she nods in agreement. She could hear it too. Kanga opens her mouth to mention it to Joey, but a quick gesture from Kat stalls her. The silver haired teen has already noticed, and is silently staring at the entrance with his eyes narrowed. He knew there was only one other person who would use the stairs and knew about this place...

Posted by Tracker on 5/13/2002, 6:54 pm
He reaches the door and opens it. He almost strides right in, but pauses when he finds three guests already occuping the office. He blinks, momentarily caught off guard "Ah," he instantly smothes out his shocked expression and replaces it with one of carefully convincing surprise. "Excuse me. I didn't know you were here." and smiles amiably at the trio.

Posted by Tracker on 5/13/2002, 6:54 pm
He reaches the door and opens it. He almost strides right in, but pauses when he finds three guests already occuping the office. He blinks, momentarily caught off guard "Ah," he instantly smothes out his shocked expression and replaces it with one of carefully convincing surprise. "Excuse me. I didn't know you were here." and smiles amiably at the trio.

Posted by Kanga, Kat, Joey on 5/13/2002, 8:42 pm
Kanga smirks at the quickly hidden expression of shock, decidedly amused by the sight of a surprised Tracker, even if the expression had only lasted for a mere moment. She glances at Joey, wondering what he thought of seeing Changeling's partner so soon after seeing Changeling. He probably couldn't wait to pass on the news that Changeling was still alive.... Her jaw drops open at the expression on Joey's face, a glare of barely suppressed rage. Whoa! She'd never seen that expression on his face before. In fact she'd never seen him more then mildly exasperated. What had Tracker done to tick him off so thoroughly?
Kat blinks, eyeing Tracker curiously. She doesn't have a clue who this guy is. She smiles somewhat warily back, eyeing her friends to see how they're taking the sudden interruption. She blinks at the expression on Joey's face. Now, she didn't know the silver haired teen extremely well, but she didn't think he was the type to have that expression on his face very often. She would be worried, if it weren't beyond obvious that Joey's anger was directed at Tracker and Tracker alone. She's glad that the silver haired teen isn't like Vision. When her eldest sister was mad she was a danger to everyone around her and herself as well as whomever she was ticked off with.
Joey takes a single, decidedly menacing step forward, his eyes glittering dangerous silver and all too intelligent. Tracker had almost killed Eliza and then had lied about her whereabouts. He'd almost killed her and was still holding her against her will! He wanted to erase her memories and turn her back into a vampire! He's almost killed her! OOOohh, what a whack he'd give Tracker if he wasn't being restrained by angelic bonds.. He'd knock him into next week!! Surely it'd be worth it....? Just to see Tracker suffer.....? Joey winces away from that thought as if he'd just touched a burning brand. He was not going to go demonic! Even Tracker wasn't worth it.... But it was oh so tempting... Just to be able to... NO!
Strangely, or maybe not so strangely considering his state of mind, there's a dark shadow building up behind the silver haired teen.

Posted by Tracker on 5/14/2002, 1:39 am
His eyes widen ever-so-slightly when he sees Joey's face, but that's the only indication of what's going on inside. The open glare is a little more alarming than he'd care to let on. He studies the steely gaze I didn't think that was allowed... is the only thought to enter his mind at the moment, as he carefully keeps his mind and face blank. When the angel takes a step foreward he takes an invountary step back and raises his hand slightly, as if to ward off an attack. When the building darkness registers, it unnerves him and settles the matter in his mind: no fun is worth that kind of trouble. "I, ah, see that this is a bad time. Maybe I'd better come back later, eh?" And with that, he's gone from sight and sense, as if he'd never been there in the first place.
He remains, however, and observes. This could get interesting... Besides, he can always let himself be seen by one person and remain hidden from the rest of the world. And this new game could turn out to be most intrigueing indeed.

Posted by Joey, Kanga and Kat on 5/14/2002, 7:00 pm
The satisfaction Joey feels when seeing Tracker step back scares him almost as much as his previous thoughts of revenge. He's relieved when Tracker disappears, not sure what the result of the male mutant sticking around would be. The shadow disappears abruptly and the two girls blink. Joey turns, intending to sink into the chair. He pauses when he realizes that Kat is still curled up there. He opens the window and sits on there instead.
Kanga smirks, it was good to see that Joey isn't perfect all the time. She's about to say something along that line, congratulating the silver haired teen for getting rid of Tracker so quickly, then she sees how pale he is. She frowns in concern and hops over. "You okay?"
Kat blinks, eyeing Joey worriedly when he slumps into the wall. The silver haired teen is so pale that he's almost translucent. "Joey?" She asks, hoping that she was correct and that he wasn't at all like Vision when annoyed. "What was that all about?"
Joey looks up, his eyes a stormy shade of gray. "Tracker is responsible for Eliza's current state.." There's another flare of anger that shows as a brief flash of light, but his eyes remain gray.

Posted by Tracker on 5/15/2002, 5:57 pm
Tracker watches carefully, contemplating the situation carefully. He isn't sure he wishes to tempt the angel to break his bonds, if indeed they can be broken. The open rage in his eyes when Tracker'd entered the room was enough to make him think that somehow the boy had found out about his involvement in Changeling's sudden departure. Hmm, a cautious approach couls be best in this situation... Kanga still doesn't seem to have changed her mind about his partner's vampire identity, so maybe that is the best course to take. He hesitates still, to check her reaction to Joey's revelation.

Posted by Joey, Kanga and Kat on 5/15/2002, 6:07 pm
There's a moment of silence, then Kat speaks. "You mean the..." She trails off as Joey nods dismally. "How'd he manage that?"
"He kidnapped her and is holding her in California. He isn't feeding her, so she's weak enough to.." He trails off again, looking out the window now.
Kat growls quietly, next time Tracker appeared he was going to have a mad angel and an annoyed cat girl after him. Kat, at least, can do something about it.
Kanga just raises an eyebrow. Good riddance. Although she did wonder, weren't they supposed to be partners? Eliza and Tracker? "But why?" She asks, not sounding at all upset by the information. He didn't blame whomever was holding her for not feeding her. Finding victims must be rather tough.

Posted by Tracker on 5/15/2002, 6:18 pm
He chuckles. I thought so. He decides to chance it and lets his voice be heard by Kanga alone as he speaks quietly "Because I needed to get her away from that boy before it was too late..." his voice sounds concerned, and a little worried, but he's laughing mentally. He so loves to tell the truth. "Please, don't let on I'm still here. I don't like to think what he or your kat friend would do. I only came to get some things, I do live here..." his voice is fast, and he moves toward the desk, as if it were where the things he needs are.

Posted by Joey, Kanga and Kat on 5/15/2002, 6:28 pm
Kanga jumps, eyes narrowed. She didn't trust Tracker any farther then she could kick him. She raises a eyebrow in distrustful inquiry. Kat might have been moved by the plea, but she wasn't. She wished she could comment, she had a few choice things to say, but she doesn't. There didn't seem much point in pointing out Tracker to Kat and Joey.

Posted by Tracker on 5/15/2002, 6:39 pm
He's relieved his gamble paid off, however it happened, but remains silent thereafter incase she decides on something to say. Instead, he takes a seat on the desk and watches the scene play out however it will. He figures if they decide to leave, he won't follow. He'd tempt fate enough today if they stay a little longer.

Posted by Various on 5/15/2002, 7:34 pm
Joey shrugs, answering Kanga's question. "He thinks that he can make her forget that she can be human and that things will go back to the way they were before she met me..."
Well, that sounds perfectly fine to the roo girl. Then she'd have Joey all to herself and the vampire would be far away from him with her partner killing people or whatever they did. Best of all Joey wouldn't be among her victims. "Oh.." Is all she has to say to that.
Kat blinks. "What? We can't let that happen!" She liked Eliza a lot better as a human.
The still pale Joey smiles slightly. "Right." But I don't think there's anything we can do, that thought fades Joey's smile a bit.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 6:26 pm
Tracker laughs in his protective sheild, These three are hilarious! And he can't even say it! Oh, this is rich... he chuckles and leans back, observing mirthfully. He decides to play a little, and lets only Joey hear his voice this time "My dear boy, what makes you think I had anything to do with her disappearance?" this would serve two purposes. One, he wonders just how the boy found out, and two, just how far could he push this angel? Whatever happens, he's safely sheltered within the full protection of his sheild as soon as the last word is out of his mouth. Just in case.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 6:38 pm
Joey stiffens, glancing around the room with narrowed eyes. He has a better hold on his temper this time, his slitted eyes is the only sign of his annoyance.
Kat blinks, wondering about Joey's sudden reaction. "What's up?" She asks, glancing about. Was Eliza back and she just couldn't see her this time? But he looked miffed, not pleased, so it couldn't be that.
"I think Tracker is still around." He answers quietly, still scanning the room.
Kat's fur stands slightly. Neither notice Kanga's faintly guilty jump.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 6:41 pm
He chuckles and watches, giving no more outward sign of his presence. Yet. Well, he didn't answer the question. Maybe another prompt? He decides to wait a moment before asking anything again, and simply observes. He'd watched this boy for a week, he deserves a little fun now. Especially since he'd recently been comissioned to capture Joey; he may never get another chance.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 6:53 pm
He wonders about answering that, the intelligence that had surfaced at his anger is still at work. If Tracker was asking that meant that he didn't know Eliza could project. If they realized that she could they'd most likely try and stop her, which would most likely involve more pain and mistreatment. That would be a bad thing. He frowns, scanning the room still.
Kat continues to scan the room, her fur still standing. Biting Tracker would be much fun. Kanga scans the room as well, feeling faintly guilty. It wasn't an emotion she felt often, and she didn't like it's presence now.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:02 pm
He studies Joey's face carefully. The boy looked as if he were considering something, probably whether or not to reveal information. Traker will just let him think. He can wait. And then, even if he doesn't give any information at first, there's always the chance that whoever he'd gotten the news from will make himself known.
He turns to view the mural Sky painted on the wall while he waits, and wonders idly where the strange female angel is.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:07 pm
Joey shakes his head after a long moment of silence. He wasn't going to tell Tracker anything. Anything he said might cause trouble for Eliza and that was the absolute last thing he wanted to do. He wasn't intelligent enough to filter out what could make things difficult from the stuff that was useless information. He remains silent. After all, saying nothing was not lying.
As if that thought had summoned her the blue angel wings in through the window. "I heard what happened, everyone still in one peice?"
Kat looks up at the talking bird, intrigued. Kanga just blinks, so that's what that blue thing is!

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:14 pm
He blinks and glances at her warrily. Last time he'd been in the same room with the blue, feathered angel, she had know he was about. Exactly where he had been, in fact. He carefully remains where he is, silently watching the goings on.
Tracker is somewhat disappointed that the teen in the window doesn't tell him anything. Well, if Joey isn't talking, maybe Sky will. Later perhaps, whe he can catch her alone.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:20 pm
Joey nods, "Yeah. Everyone is okay.. Kat was knocked out for a bit, but she's fine now.."
"Ah.." The blue angel eyes the cat girl, somewhat disturbed by the slightly predatory way her movement is being followed. Then she remembers, this is the first time the green mutant has seen her real form. If Kat was as feline as she looked, she probably looked like prey. She shifts to full size, eyeing the area were Tracker stands absently. After a moment she flips on the projection and raises an eyebrow at Kat. "Better?"
Kat blinks at the sudden change, her eyes widening. "Oh! Sky, hi..." She's a bit embarrassed.
Kanga's eyes widen. Whoa, so that's who that is!

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:28 pm
He sighs faintly, somewhat disturbed that not only Eva, but Sky is able to perceive him as well. Maybe he is loosing his touch... but then again, neither of the two females are exactly human, per se. But still, his talent should work on just about everyone.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:31 pm
Well, the fact that Joey doesn't have a clue were he is should ease his mind bit. It's obvious that the silver haired teen would have done something by now if he could find Tracker.
Sky looks around. "Eliza left?"
Joey blinks. "Err..."

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:34 pm
He blinks and straightens when Sky mentions his partners name. Oh really? She was here? My, that's strange... That's something new. Last he'd heard, his dear partner was still in LA, and beginning to act like her old self again. Very strange indeed.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:38 pm
Kat nods. "Yeah. She said she couldn't spare the energy to stick around long."
Kanga shrugs, made irritable by the mention of the halfling, "I don't know. I can't even see her!"
Joey rolls his eyes upward. Maybe he should have mentioned that they should avoid that particular subject.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:41 pm
He leans back and considers, eyebrows raised, a faintly surprised grin on his face. Well, well, well. Changeling seems to have a few abilities I didn't know about... That must have been what Joey wanted to keep secret. Please, tell me more. He waits patiently for another someone to hint at exactly his dear shapeshifting, vampiric partner can do.

Posted by Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:46 pm
"Just visiting my.."
"Kanga!" Thinking that her friend was about to say something rather crude, Kat interrupts before the roo girl can finish.
"Tail." Kanga finishes flatly with a slight glare at the cat girl. She continues on, muttering about stupid invisible vampires under her breath.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 7:54 pm
Tracker laughs at the exchange. This is so much more interesting than when Changeling was around.

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 8:00 pm
Sky glances at Tracker, tilting her head curiously. She raises an eyebrow at Joey, why was he being so silent?
The silver haired teen follows her previous gaze, eyeing the spot where Tracker is seriously.
Kat frowns at the other girl. "She's not invisible, she's projecting."
Kanga rolls her eyes. "Riiiiiight."

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 8:07 pm
His eyebrows shoot up again when Kat speaks, Projecting? Now that's a new one on me. I wonder if she just kept that a seecret, or if she's only just learned how recently. He notices Joey's glance in his general direction and moves to a different spot on the other wall, somewhat away from the male angel. That Sky could mean trouble... he considers carefully. No, no reason to leave just yet. Unless either of them plans on actually doing something to him, he'd rather stay and learn all he can about his partner's newfound talent. Astral projection could be a great talent to seek further practice with...

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 8:12 pm
Sky continues to eye the male angel, eyebrow raised. Maybe his silence had something to do with Eliza's absence?
When Kat and Kanga look like they're about to continue the conversation on that topic, Joey stops them. "Tracker might still be around, maybe it'd be best if we don't talk about Eliza? We could get her in trouble.."
Kat's mouth snaps shut, her eyes wide. That'd never occurred to her. Kanga simply rolls her eyes. If trouble meant that Eliza kept away from Joey, she was all for it.

Posted by Tracker on 5/16/2002, 8:21 pm
He chuckles and rolls his eyes. Well, at least they'd solved the mystery for him. Astral projection... he'd thought that since she's vampire... he stops mid-thought and swears mentally. Oh, she's a tricky one, alright. But that's okay, he's not depending on Juan's mind wiping techniques for that particular problem. The only thing that concerns him now is the fact that the assassin had intimated that she'd been vampiric when he'd called... She is a rather acomplished actor.

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 8:25 pm
Silence falls. Kanga brooding about Joey and Eliza, Kat feeling decidedly stupid for not thinking of that earlier. Joey searches for Tracker, wishing he could pick up the male mutant like Sky and thinking about Changeling. Sky blinks at the mental swear, wondering what that was about as she eyes Tracker once again.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 5:56 pm
Tracker merely leans against the far wall, studying the four gathered and wondering how to make this more fun. Maybe if he were to let Joey see him again... Well, maybe not. That might be pushing his luck too far. He still has no clue what the male angel's reaction to his reappearing would be, and how dangerous to his person it's likely to be. Sky, too, is an unknown. Best to just keep hidden, even if the blue feathered Sky knows where his is.

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 6:00 pm
Joey sighs after a moment, letting it go. He couldn't do anything about Tracker's presence and he didn't really want to know what he might do if he found out where the male mutant was. Kat and Kanga remain silent, lost in there own thoughts. Sky eyes the group. "Well," She says, "We're a cheerful group.."

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:05 pm
He chuckles and comments silently "You go that right." His thoughts swirl unpleasantly around the fact that Changeling is strong enough to fool the trained asassin into thinking she's a vampire. Especially since she's been starved and should truly be vampiric. Something just isn't making sense here.

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 6:09 pm
After a moment Kat breaks the silence. "Well, I think Kanga and I should be heading home. Vision is going to start thinking I'm lying in a gutter someplace if I stay out too long..." She stands, neatly folding the blanket Joey'd given her and placing back in the filing cabinet. Kanga stands somewhat reluctantly, eyeing Joey. What if Eliza came back? Then again it wasn't like there was much she could do if the vampire did come back. She couldn't even see Eliza.
Joey blinks, startled out of his own thoughts. "Oh, well I guess I'll see you two tommorrow or something.."

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:14 pm
Tracker watches them pack up, deciding to stick around for a while incase his partner were to return. Unless the two angels left, of course. He still has arrangements to make, and can't stay too much longer.

Posted by Various on 5/16/2002, 6:16 pm
Kanga smiles, "Of course!" Kat simply nods, looking faintly thoughtful. "If Vision'll let me out again.." Joey walks them to the door, leaving Sky alone in the room.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:17 pm
He peers at Sky curiously. So, how is it she can see (or at least sense) him, even while the strength of his shield is at maximum strength.

Posted by sky on 5/16/2002, 6:19 pm
She flicks off the hologram and shrinks to the size of a sparrow before perching on the arm of the chair. "I suspect you know I pick things up?" She asks absently, her eyes shut.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:24 pm
"I suppose," he pauses and studies her closely "Is that also why Joey can't seem to locate me as well? Do you have a special talent for 'picking things up'?"

Posted by sky on 5/16/2002, 6:25 pm
"Yup, exactly. I haven't met many who can completely block themselves.."

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:31 pm
He mulls this over. Well, atleast he's not loosing his touch. He shrugs and turns off the meaningless (to Sky) sheild. If she can see him anyway, as well as pull thoughts and words right out of the air, what use is it to remain hidden? Especially since Joey's not in the room.

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 6:32 pm
"Well, it comforts some." Apparently Sky hasn't figured out what a rhetorical question is, either that or she just feels like being annoying.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:42 pm
He chuckles, finding that he rather likes Sky. It's one thing to watch someone act this way, and quite another to actually converse with them. Most amusing!

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 6:32 pm
"Ooh, trust me. You have nooo idea." She sounds faintly amused herself.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 6:47 pm
This time it's a full laugh. And he doesn't have to say a word! Oh, if she weren't an angel, he'd have invited her to become his partner! Forget Changeling!

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 6:51 pm
"I'm so touched.. Although the not being able to harm or lie certainly gets in the way of things. " Heavy sarcasm on that bit. "Ah, the things that I would prefer not to hear.."

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 7:04 pm
"I can imagine. What a problematic position.." he chuckles again, having temporarily forgotten about Joey.

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 6:51 pm
She shrugs cheerfully. "One gets used to it." One eye opens as she hears Joey coming back up the stairs. He'd waited until Kat and Kanga had disappeared from sight.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 7:04 pm
"I can only imagine.." He quickly adjusts his sheild so that the other can't see him, swearing mentally at his absentmindedness.

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 7:16 pm
Joey blinks when he spots Tracker, what was the Sky doing?! The scowl returns to his face, his eyes tinted silver as he stalks up the last few steps.
Sky blinks when he enters, opening both eyes and turning to face the silver haired teen. "Joey, it's getting worse.." She says sounding slightly concerned.
"Were you chatting with him?" Joey demands, flopping into the chair.
Sky shrugs. "Yes, just because he's nasty doesn't mean that one has to be rude."
Joey snorts.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 7:22 pm
He watches Joey enter, noting the silver in his eyes, then glances back at Sky when she comments. What's getting worse? He's used to listening in on conversations about himself, so it doesn't really bother him at all that Joey's tone isn't friendly. Besides, it's not like he tried for (or indeed, wanted) any friendship. He raises an eyebrow and chuckles at the compliment from Sky. "My, I didn't know you cared!"

Posted by Sky on 5/16/2002, 7:29 pm
Sky snorts, somewhat amused by Tracker's comment. "I don't know if care is quite the right word.."
Joey blinks at the comment, his anger dissipating somewhat. "Still talking to him?" He asks, sounding like he's sulking.
"Yes." Sky answers, raising an eyebrow at Joey as if asking him if he was sure he wanted to continue this conversation.
"You do realize that he kidnapped Eliza, sent her off to Cali and has been mistreating her ever since?" Joey glances up, his eyes still tinted silver.
" I thought you didn't want to mention her while Tracker's still around.." Sky says mildly.
Joey scowls at the little blue angel.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 7:42 pm
His grin widens when Joey reveals more of what he knows about Changeling's situation, and a seed of thought sprouting slightly. If These two know where she is and her condition... can they do anything about it? Supporting this idea is the fact that Changeling seems to be strong enough to deceive her watcher into believing her vampirism...

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:47 pm
"I still can't believe you're chatting with him, after what he's done to Eliza." Joey says after a moment, still sounding like he's sulking.
Sky glances at him, then shakes her head slightly. " You're slipping further.." Is all she says before closing her eyes again.
Joey blinks at this comment, his eyes suddenly snapping back to their usual gray.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 7:50 pm
Interesting.. What is it that the boy is slipping into... he wonders. He considers questioning Sky, but doubts she'll tell him. When Joey's eyes return to gray, he wonders.

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 7:55 pm
"Would you hate a person for all the things they'd done in their past?" Sky asks.
Joey, completely puzzled, shakes his head. People could change.
"Do you hate Tracker for the things he's done to other people in the past? Or just what he's done to Eliza?"
Joey doesn't answer, Sky lets him think over that. She sensed that he was getting her point. He was in love, sure, but he should try not to let that affect his angelic impartiality.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 8:03 pm
He raises an eyebrow, angels can hate? It's a new concept, but one he can easily believe. It does, after all, fit the way Joey had reacted when he'd first entered. Hmm...

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 8:05 pm
Joey is lost in his own thoughts again. Sky nods to herself, eyeing his expression, she hated playing wise sage.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 8:13 pm
It occurs to him that these two probably aren't the best two examples of their kind... befriending a vampiress.. Joey's not generally smart, unless he's in some kind of stressful situation, Sky.. Well, she seems to be more playful than anything, and he supposes that some of the things she says would most likely be taken as lunacy, or at least associated with her playfullness. Still, there are most likely others 'out there'...
He shrugs and leans back against his wall, watching them.

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 8:16 pm
Sky nearly looses her perch on the chair as she picks that up, she's laughing so hard. Joey blinks, startled out of his thoughts by the sudden explosion of noise. He watches her for a moment, looking extremely confused. This wasn't unusual, for Sky, but he still wondered what she had picked up that's so amusing.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 8:18 pm
He shakes his head, nearly laughing himself. There, a classic example: without a word spoken, Sky reacts as if she'd just heard the funniest joke this century. He's only glad his thoughts don't tend to stray down darker paths without his knowing.

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 8:23 pm
Eventually she regains control of herself, still giggling slightly she re-adjusts her somewhat precarious perch. Joey blinks, eyeing her as he waits for an explanation. "Oh dear.." Sky says, still giggling. " The fact that I'm covered in blue feathers didn't give you any hints?" Joey blinks, completely an utterly confused, until he realizes that Sky's not talking to him. He blinks once again, wondering what Tracker thought that brought up Sky's appearance. Sky continues to laugh, unable to re-gain complete control. "I'm hardly your basic stereotypical angel!"

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 8:25 pm
This time he does laugh "Very true," and shakes his head, still chuckling.

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/16/2002, 8:27 pm
Sky's still giggling slightly and Joey is wearing his 'I missed something' expression. "Boy did you ever!" Comments Sky, unable to help herself. Joey blinks.

Posted by Tracker on 5/21/2002, 8:34 pm
Oh dear.. Yes, he definitly likes this one. He wonders vaguely how she ever got to be an angel, her personality considered, but then decides that she's probably the best kind. If every one of them were serious, just there to do their job, the world would be a much duller place. He'd seen how people tend to brighten when around a happy Joey, and become depressed and moody when he's sad.

Posted by Sky on 5/21/2002, 11:33 pm
Sky grins widely, showing off her decidedly pointed canines. "Trust me, half of heaven is wondering the same." She chuckles, then grins widely once again at the last bit, bobbing a bow. Wasn't often she got true compliments like that from people like Tracker.

Posted by Tracker on 5/22/2002, 7:40 pm
"Heh, I suppose I'd better quit thinking, eh?" he motions to Joey "I what's he got against me? I mean, Changeling herself asked that I protect her..." he tilts his head, the truth apparent in what he's saying. Changeling had indeed made a pact with him when they'd first became partners. She knew that if she ever got too close to someone, it would endanger them, so she'd asked that he keep her from it. It wasn't his fault she had gotten so close to Joey, he'd tried to prevent it, and then they'd gone and 'died' and he'd gotten that job and observed them, all the while intending to follow through on his promise.

Posted by Sky on 5/22/2002, 7:49 pm
"Well, I would answer, but I suspect you've already figured that one out.."
Sky raises her eyebrows as she picks up some details from thin air. "Hrm, but I somehow doubt that kidnapping and mistreating treating her was quite what she meant. I also wonder what she'd say about that particular pact now.. Then again, one can also assume that's why the pact was made in the first place..." She ponders that for a moment, thoughtful.
Joey blinks once again, eyeing Sky. "What are you talking about now? What's this pact about?" He's faintly annoyed with himself for asking, but rather wants to know.
Sky eyes him sternly for a moment. "If I tell you do you think you can avoid freaking out?"
Joey blinks. "Err, not sure..." He sinks into his chair slightly, somewhat frightened by the utter truth of that answer.
Sky nods, "Thought so."

Posted by Tracker on 5/22/2002, 7:56 pm
He raises an eyebrow at Sky "I rather doubt she knew what she was asking when she posed the promise," he agrees amiably "And everything so far is in complete accordance to what we agreed upon." there is also truth in that. He'd promised to feed her what she'd need as a vampire and keep her away from said intrest.

Posted by Sky and Joey on 5/22/2002, 7:59 pm
Sky shakes her head slowly, somewhat amused. "Well, if nothing else you're keeping your promises."
Joey blinks, another request for information dying before it reaches his lips. Sky was probably right and he didn't want to freak out again. He stands, "I think I'll go back out.." After a nod in reply to Sky's farewell he leaves the room once more.

Posted by Tracker on 5/22/2002, 8:04 pm
He watches the boy go, then drops the sheild completely when he's sure not to be seen. He didn't want to find out Joey's reaction to his presence any more than the angel himself seemed to. "That's all I can do for the moment. However, it seems that I cannot completely keep her away." he glowers and continues "The least she can do is stay in california.." After a shrug his face clears and he peers at Sky "So why aren't you reacting the same way he is?" at the word 'he' Tracker gestures to the door Joey had left by. He might just know, but would rather hear it than make incorrect guesses.

Posted by Sky on 5/22/2002, 8:08 pm
"Ah.." Sky shrugs, " I'll talk with anything, provided it isn't about to kill me.." Her amber eyes betray a glint of amusement. "Even then, banter is much fun.." She chuckles, obviously remembering some funny incident. "Besides, people change, even if the likeliness that some will is very slim."

Posted by Tracker on 5/22/2002, 8:11 pm
He chuckles in response "That's generally a good rule to live by." he considers that last comment and shrugs "People are funny creatures. And change in some cases is very literal..." he also seems to remember something and shakes his head, the beginning of that thought clouding before it really has a chance to start. Instead, he changes the subject "Have you ever run across a woman who goes by the name of Eva?"

Posted by Sky on 5/23/2002, 5:49 pm
"Eva?" She sounds intrigued. "I don't believe so..." The believe being inserted because sometimes her memory played tricks on her. She could remember pretty much every tale told her, but pieces of her own history had a tendency to suddenly go missing.

Posted by Tracker on 5/23/2002, 5:53 pm
Tracker nods "You may not have, she's.. New." he smiles slightly, calling forth a mental image for Sky. In it, Eva's mechanical eyes and facial features are promonent, but nearly every detail is apparent in his photographic memory.

Posted by Sky on 5/24/2002, 6:35 pm
"Oooh. Iiinteresting. " Now she sounds really intrigued, completely fascinated in fact. Of all the things she could remember meeting, she'd never met a robot. One gets the feeling that Eva is about to be hunted down by an overly curious small, blue angel.

Posted by Tracker on 5/24/2002, 6:41 pm
He chuckles, he rather thought Sky'd be just as interested in Eva. Possibly as interested as she was in Joey. He has no clue why, and doesn't really want to know; it's not his interest, only his job. He pauses, realizing that he'd probably let something slip into his thoughts that should have remained confidential. Isn't good business to blab all of his clients' secrets.

Posted by Sky on 5/24/2002, 6:44 pm
Sky's head tilts as she ponders what she's just picked up. Yet another person interested in Joey? How had he managed to draw so much attention in such a short time? She shakes her head, smiling slightly.

Posted by Tracker on 5/24/2002, 6:51 pm
He's glad she didn't comment, and only hopes she doesn't pass on the information.

At noon
Posted by Eva on 6/6/2002, 11:15 pm
She leaned against the wall of their meeting place, letting the sun warm her circuits and the sunlight play across and be scattered by her rotating eyes.
Today she wore a saphire blue miniskirt topped with an amethyst purple tank top. She wore her watch and her trade-mark whimsey clinging to her left ear...or was that attatched to her left ear?
She smiled slightly, amused at the slumbering drunks that were her only audience. She was early as usual.

Posted by Tracker on 6/6/2002, 11:23 pm
He strolls along, the last meeting still playing through his mind. That was strange. She was likeable... he never thought he'd actually like an angel. However, the feathery blue Sky wasn't exactly what one suspects when one normally thinks of that kind either. Ah well.
He rounds a corner and starts down the alleyway he is supposed to meet Eva in. Early again, I see.. he thinks to himself, somewhat amused. Doesn't she have anywhere else to be? He shrugs invisibly and, after a quick glance around to make sure they aren't being watched, drops his sheild. "Ah, good afternoon," he keeps his voice quiet as he continues his approach, just loud enough to reach her ears.

Posted by Eva on 6/6/2002, 11:27 pm
She nodded amiably. "Good afternoon. Anything new to report? My sources were gossping that you talked to the angels." She seemed even more amused when she mentioned that her sources were gossiping, giving him the feeling that something there is not quite what it seems.

Posted by Tracker on 6/6/2002, 11:39 pm
He chuckles, filing away that exact wording for future contemplation "I see, well, I had quite a conversation with one of them, though for some reason the boy.. holds some hostility towards me. I can't for the life of me immagine why..." he raises his eyebrows and spreads his hands wide to accompany his innocently perplexed voice. The small smirk ruins the expression however, and he shrugs "Ah well."

Posted by Eva on 6/7/2002, 12:51 pm
"Indeed." She chuckled and, just as innocently, suggested, "Perhaps it has something to do with Changeling?" She continued in a more serious tone, "Speaking of whom, are you ready to transport her here? Or would you rather I use the MTHS teleporting to bring her to the equipment directly? Either way, I'm sure I can arrange a distraction for Joey and the other that would work to our advantage."

Posted by Tracker on 6/7/2002, 5:02 pm
He shrugs at her comment "Eh, perhaps." When she offers to transport Changeling directly he hold up his hand "No need. By now she'll come willingly. My.. associate isn't quite that incompetent, so she'll not remember our little... difference of opinion as the reason she ended up in California." he smiles coolly. "You just provide the distraction and we'll be back here ready to work in no time at all." he glances around to make sure none of the few sleepers have awakened before continuing "I'm leaving for LA today and have a plane ready to convey us both back here tomorrow morning. If all goes well, we'll be back by ten at the latest. If not, well.." he shrugs neutrally "If things don't go well I'll still get her here, just a little less.. cooperatively." his mirthless smile returns as he silently calculates anything that possibily go wrong and plans against them. The result of his ever-active mind.

Posted by Eva on 6/7/2002, 6:39 pm
She nodded absently as she listened, watching his expressions, reading between the lines. "Right. Approximately what time are you arriving at your associate's? I'd assume you'd need a distraction then in case she somehow gets word to Joey?"

Posted by Tracker on 6/10/2002, 4:41 pm
He shrugs "I should be arriving sometime around 5 tonight. But I don't think a distraction will be nessisary untill tomorrow morning, if she does manage to get a message back." After a short pause he tilts his head "Forgive my curiosity, but what kind of distraction were you planning?" from the look on his face, he's wondering if he'll be sorry to have missed it.

Posted by Eva on 6/10/2002, 4:56 pm
She nodded. "Okay." Then she smiled slightly. "You're forgiven....I really don't know for certain. There are many possibilities. If Kanga is around I could always play off of her relationship with Joey. Or I could perhaps stir up trouble for him to take care of as an angel....It all depends on the situation, I suppose." She shrugged.

Posted by Tracker on 6/10/2002, 5:05 pm
His dark eyes brighten somewhat at the mention of stirring up a little fun between Joey and Kanga, but other than that his face remains passively curious. "I see..." it's clear to one who knows what to look for that he'd definitly like to see something happen in that instance, especially since it has far reaching consequences that can be toyed with later.

Posted by Eva on 6/10/2002, 5:19 pm
Her smile broadened a bit as she watched his expressions, but she said nothing more on the matter as she filed away that information and what it implied.
"Do you know where the MTHS headquarters are?"

Posted by Tracker on 6/10/2002, 5:42 pm
He looks rather amused "Is there anyone in this city who doesn't? Especially someone with... different abilities."

Posted by Eva on 6/10/2002, 5:48 pm
"Point taken." She looked amused now, her silver rotating eyes whirling silently back and forth. "Take her directly there. If I'm not there to greet you, another Bot will." Then her smile grew to a grin. "Oh, and it might need a kick in the right direction if it decides not to help you. A few of the remaining Bots aren't the...smartest...in the world." She chuckled.

Posted by Tracker on 6/12/2002, 5:51 pm
He's also somewhat amused, and raises an eyebrow when she mentions that he might have to kick a bot. That could be interesting, but his guess is that Changeling will be about mad enough to spit nails when he tells her 'what happened'. He doubts he'll have any trouble with bots as long as his partner goes first. "Gotcha. We'll see you tomorrow then," he keeps his voice low so as not to be overheard accidentally.

Posted by Eva on 6/17/2002, 10:24 pm
She smiled, catching his amused expression and glad that he came out of his unemotional shell at least a bit. "Of course," she replied with a slight inclination of her head in assent. "See you then. Good luck, and good bye."
She took a few steps back, winked, then turned, heading off to go observe mutantkind and prepare for the care of another.

In Ca...
Posted by Tracker and Changeling on 8/8/2002, 2:05 am
Tracker gets off the plane and heads towards where his partner is being held. The assassin had sworn that he'd erased her recent memory, but there's only one way to find out. He draws his invisibility around him and enters Juan's lair. Hmm, nothing terribly unusual... Changeling is sitting in one far corner, out of the sun, wrapped in her dark cloak. Well, he thinks Either she's reverted to vampire, or she's just playing. Either way, best not take any chances. He closes the distance and kneels by her side, still invisible within his protective sheild. He reaches out one hand and lays it on her shoulder.
Changeling jerks her head up, her silent snarl showing vampiric fangs. When she sees no one, she stands cautiously. "Tracker," her voice is below a whisper, all but inaudible.
He smiles, at least she hasn't lost her sharpness of mind... "Yes, step foreward." he doesn't give her any reason, only the suggestion. She takes a step foreward, and is suddenly within range of his talent. She can see him, because he lets her, and she is invisible to sight and sense.
"What took you so long?" This time her voice is harsh and irritated "Do you know what that fool has been doing to me?" her stance and voice portray the annoyance she's felt for the past week or so in this semi-hostile environment she couldn't escape from.
"Sorry," comes his terse reply "I had things to consider. It takes time to organize this kind of thing, you should know that. You didn't think I could just drop everything and pour all my resources into searching for you, do you?" Changeling knows very well what it would take to find her if someone didn't want her to be found, and she nods. Tracker goes on "Besides, you were off galavanting with that Joey, I had no idea you were gone untill much later." he shrugs "Lets go. I never did much like the way Juan did his busyness. Even if it is the same way we do ours." he smirks, and his partner knows exactly what he means. Money is all that matters, friendships are little, if anything, and breaking a contract is worthy of the worst kind of death imaginable: unemployment.
Changeling shrugs and follows his lead, out of the buildings by way of a wall, and out onto a deserted street. It's dark now, and they move swiftly through the night to an awaiting plane. No questions asked, Tracker boards, visible and completely innocent looking, while Changeling shifts to a small form, bat, and hangs inside his jacket. The whole flight, she thinks about Joey. He'd be well asleep now; it's already dawn on the other side of the continent. Boy what a surprise he'd get when he awakens!
The flight is unremarkable, Changeling fell asleep in the folds of his jacket. When they arrive, the sun is well up, and she can see the sun sparkling across the atlantic ocean before they land. Oh, what ajoy to feel the sun on her face again! She sighs, waiting for Tracker to disembark. As soon as they're off the plane, she extracts herself from his coat, winging to the ladies room and shifting to human in a convienient stall. Tracker is waiting for her when she exits "You know, I didn't want to tell you before, but the HMTHS has sent someone to capture Joey..." his voice is quiet, but she hears him loud and clear.
"WHAT?!" he winces, having anticipated her violent outburst. She follows it with a string of celtic curses in such a tone of voice that the occastional passerby blanch and turn away. Tracker makes placating gestures and she stops abruptly "Well, there's only one way to solve this problem..." and with that, she strides purposefully for the exit while Tracker followes, a slight smile on his face. He clears his throat and Changeling halts, turning on him savagely "What?" she demands.
"Oh, nothing.. I was just wondering how much of the past few days you actually remember..." he tilts his head at his partner and she closes her eyes, trying to remember. After a while, her eyes fly open "I can't remember! What happened?!" she's thrown even more off balance, and can do nothing more than accept Trackers explanation "Your memory was wiped. Luckily, not too much, or else you wouldn't have remembered that you're human now, or even possibly me." he doesn't look too happy about the fact, and she definitly isn't. With a murderous glare in her dark eyes, she storms out onto the busy New York streets. People stay out of her way, some even running across the street as she approaces. No one wants to get in the way of that anger.
They arrive at the HMTHS building shortly after, Changeling having shifted to dragon and Tracker riding along. She shifts back, fists clenched, and kickes open the door, taking everything in with suddenly augmented vision. Now that she's out of the sun, she can relax her hold on humanity, and... cruel fangs glint in the indoor lighting as her lip curls back in a silent snarl.

Posted by MTHS on 8/12/2002, 3:18 pm
The door slammed shut and locked behind the two with an end-all bang and a hollow metal click. Silence greeted the two, and nothing moved but the tiny dust particles Changeling had disturbed. They drifted to the ground, reflecting back the light shining in through the translucent doors, giving the surrounding dark scene a surreal quality.
The large room that greeted them was empty, devoid of any signs of recent life except for the many footprints in the paper-thin layer of dust, both coming and going from several doors and a hallway. Whatever steps either individual took would ring and echo sharply. With nothing to hide behind and with their presence announced with a single step, there was no hope for stealth in such a building.
Several seemingly long moments passed before a figure fell through an open pannel in the ceiling towards the back of the room. Her boots landed softer than would be expected on the hard floor. The feminine form wore a dark red sleevless shirt, black lace arm warmers, and black pants that were a bit on the baggy side. Her hair was cropped short, and her silver irises glinted in the streams of light from the outdoors. Even from the short distance she was from them, one could tell how her eyes shifted and rotated back and forth for each item they focused upon.
She rose slowly with liquid grace, made startling if one knew just how artificial she was. Her all-too real voice carried with it the warm tones of amusement, "You rang?"
~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile, another young woman was seen to walk into a large office building. She wore a clean- cut, close-fitting suit and elegant heels that clicked fashionably on the cement and tiled floors. There was an air of cool-confidence about her unremarkable features, and though she strode boldly, no one seemed to notice her or even recognized that she never before had entered that building.
She entered the elevator and took it to the fourteenth floor, or rather, the thirteenth if anyone stopped to count. A couple of people riding it with her noticed how she seemed to be ticking. A mother immediatly thought of the crocodile in Peter Pan, immediatly dismissing it for an overly loud watch the woman must be wearing her beneath the sleeve of her feminine suit. Another, more paranoid man immediatly thought of the latest action movie he had watched and glanced at her with quickly passing fear in his eyes. Perhaps she carried a bomb?
The man should have held onto that thought, though even if he were to ask her if she did indeed carry one she would have denied it, and rightly. No, she did not carry a bomb.
She was a bomb.
Within moments an enormous explosion ripped through the building. The majority of its occupants died without ever knowing what hit them, others were crushed beneath fallen bits of building, and still others were buried alive, too shocked to realize what had happened. Wasn't she just sititng pleasantly in her meeting, sipping her coffee? Wasn't he just trying to stare at his moniter as if in thought so that his manager would leave him be? Wasn't she just walking down the hallway, playing hooke from her latest meeting?
Buildings next to the office building were having their accidents, too. The explosion had sent much debris flying through nearby windows, killing some with cubicals and offices nearest to those windows, and putting others in critical condition or just injured.
As of yet, no emergency numbers had been called. Everyone who had seen it were for the moment in too great of shock to do anything but stare.
Who would want to tear apart such a simple office building? It held no national importance. None whatsoever. The business was relatively new on its feet.

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 8/12/2002, 4:19 pm
Changeling's eyes this new opponent silently she sizing her up. Tracker remains in the background, observing with an almost amused glint in his eye. His partner had never shown this much restraint, but her patience is evidently very thin at the moment. She stalks forward, avoiding patches of sunlight streaming in from the outside windows, advancing on the new form. "Who are you." her voice is flat and barely above a whisper, but demanding. Does she know this woman? Her memory had been tampered with, so anything might be possible.

Posted by Eva on 8/12/2002, 7:12 pm
"Who do I appear to be?" A question answered with a question. Then she smiled, amused, and turned away. "Come." A beckoning over her shoulder and she was striding purposefully down the hallway. Really, there were two choices, to follow or not to follow, though the manner in which she did it made it seem that there would be consequences if they did not. Strange, indeed.

Posted by Joey and Sky on 8/12/2002, 8:21 pm
As the young woman walked into the office building Joey and Sky were already on their way, being pulled by a force that they couldn't resist, even if they wanted to. The sound of the explosion reached them while they were still blocks away by air. The angelic duo arrive at the scene of destruction, touching down silently with their eyes wide at the horror of it all. Without a word they stride into the mess, disappearing into the smoke and dust raised. Their work was so much easier when they couldn't easily be seen.
Dust was no obstruction to a being that could sense life from a distance, no matter how faint. Sky moves rubble just as easily as Joey to salvage the rapidly fading life buried beneath. A flash of light and the blue feathered angel is on to the next person, leaving behind a trail of people with the bizarre feeling that something unusual and wonderful had touched their lives.
Something about this situation was disturbing Sky greatly. She had already healed dozens, Joey about the same, leaving those healed to work their own way out of the wreckage or to be found by a rescue team, and yet she felt no hint of the compulsion that usually pulled her away from such events long before she was willing to go. She could only think of one reason why she hadn't been called away for interfering too much. Something about this situation had been caused by either her or Joey, a decidedly sobering thought...

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 8/12/2002, 9:46 pm
Changeling is a little surprised that the woman would just turn her back and walk away from a vampire, and just then realizes that she hears no heartbeat from the other. Nothing. Not even a breath. And she can't be a vampire, since she'd sense that... What?! Not human, not demon.. Angel? No.. can't be... That thought shocks her from her furious reverie, and she shifts into a more defensive form; dragon. She decides to at least hear her out, since she has no clue what might happen if she were to attack this person. Who knows, maybe Joey... She shakes her head and follows, raptor-like body low, sharp talons held at the ready. Her overlarge fangs betray her still-vampire abilities and mentality, so caution would be advisable. Unless this woman truely has nothing to fear from such.

Posted by Rescue teams on 8/13/2002, 6:17 pm
Sirens announced the arrival of help as rescue teams poured out of emergency vehicles with equipment and K-9 partners. Police cars blocked traffic from entering the debris-filled street. Hurt and bleeding, people were helped from the rubble, and taken out of their shattered cars.
Some were found to only have blood on them but no wounds. These were rather dazed and distracted, but in a different way than the victims of shock. A puzzle for later. Right now, the mission was just to help as many as they could. They would worry about the "why"s and the "how for"s later.

Posted by Eva on 8/13/2002, 6:11 pm
The strange woman proceeded to lead them down the hallway then stopped, turned, and gestured to her right, their left at a closed door. She seemed completely unphased, though perhaps a little amused, that Changeling had shifted dragon.
"In here you should not use any mutant powers...Or you will pay for it, gravely. Your powers will not be blocked upon entering, but I'd advise you not to test how far the security goes." Then she opened a panel in the wall and proceeded to fiddle with something hidden from the two's sight. With a smooth whirring, a flash of red light, and a click, the double metal doors moved open.

Posted by Sky on 8/14/2002, 12:54 am
Sky notes the appearance of the rescue teams with something akin to frustration. The arrival of mortal help usually meant that she had to back off. Stubbornly she refuses to leave until hauled away by her angelic compulsion. It takes the blue angel awhile to notice that she hasn't felt the tug of a sudden urge to leave.
Sky blinks, straightening from the crouch she'd been in. It isn't until one of the rescue team wanders past without looking at her that she realizes what's going on. To all senses, mechanical or otherwise, she was practically invisible. The only mortals that would be able to see her would be those that believed in her kind. It was an extremely convenient arrangement, one that definitely did not help her current concern. Something must really be up if both she and Joey were allowed to stay...
Sky shakes the thought from her mind. She didn't know how long this would last, it was best to take advantage of it while she could. Resolutely she goes back to healing.

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 8/16/2002, 1:51 am
She glares, eyes squinting suspiciously. She doesn't trust this woman, but such warnings were generally good to heed. Not that much can kill her at the moment, and unless the security measures include beheading, stakes, or sunlight, she's fairly safe. "What's in there?" she changes the subject, peering through the door cautiously.
Tracker only watches, wondering just what kind of penalties one brought on himself if he used mutant powers inside the building... His thoughts are interupted when Eva opens those doors. Now what's in there, I wonder... He looks over Changeling's shoulder, curiously.

Posted by Eva on 8/17/2002, 10:23 pm
What was in the room? Nothing. No furniture or special ornamentation of any kind.
The room was relatively ordinary-looking. It had four walls, a floor, and a ceiling. But everything was pannelled with an indistinguishable metallic alloy.
Eva stepped inside as if it was just another room and crossed to its center before looking back at them, her eyes ever rotating, ever turning in the dark, unlit room. Her expression in the incredibly dim lighting pouring in from the doorway was one as if to say, "Well? Are you coming in or not?"

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 8/19/2002, 9:44 pm
Changeling glares around the empty room, eyes narrowed down to slits. She can see perfectly in the dim light, but the seemingly clear room bothers her. Why have a room with nothing in it? She takes a cautious step foreward, poking her head slowly through the doorway. If there's a trap in here, she'd rather sneak up on it that take it full in the face. She growls, a subsonically low rumble that would only tickle Tracker's ears. She doesn't trust this situation at all, but if Joey is concerned... Her brow-scales draw together in an angry grimace and she moves foreward a little more.
Tracker peers bast her curiously. She might find the whole situation threatening, but he is more interested in the mechanics -or lack therof- in the room. How is Eva planning on getting this over-cautious Changeling where she can be mind-wiped?

Posted by Eva on 8/20/2002, 9:03 am
As Eva waited, she smiled, a mixture of amusement and reassurance. "I swear the room won't bite, and you won't get hurt, Changeling."

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 8/20/2002, 5:03 pm
The assurance doesn't really reassure her, but she steps fully into the room, Tracker not far behind. Her serpentine tail twtches like an irritated cat, and she straightens somewhat. "Now what?"

Posted by Eva on 8/21/2002, 8:59 am
With that self-same smile, Eva crossed over to the far side of the room, opened a panel in the wall and proceeded to close the doors, shutting them all in the square room.
"Okay, now we've got privacy," Eva explained, turning back to the two. "So," and she directed the next to Changeling, "Were you wanting to tell me something or did you just decide to stop by the MTHS Headquarters for some sort of joke?" Her gaze leveled and she became the epitome of seriousness, even despite her remaining smile.

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 9/3/2002, 9:44 pm
Tracker watches his partner for danger signals, and realizes that Eva is treading on very dangerous ground. What is she doing?! He'd brought Changeling here to have her memory erased, and here she is, about to tear the place to pieces.
Changeling's eyes narrow as she scrutinizes the woman before her. Is she crazy? Or just incredibly well guarded? There is probably more to this situation than meets the eye, so she plays it safe. She hasn't survived for centuries by blundering on in a rage. She draws herself up and gambles "You know why I'm here," she senses Tracker's nervousness and her tail lashes out behind her irritatedly "Now what are you gonna do about it?"

Posted by Eva on 9/7/2002, 9:31 pm
All was still in the room. Eva made no motion, no expression as to if she would reply or not--only her smile slowly faded, completing her serious demeanor.
After a while, "Do I," she said softly, as if speaking only to herself. "Do I."
Then, louder this time, and clearly directed towards Changeling. "Perhaps I do. But do you know why you're here?" Her expression was merely thoughtful, more introspective than questioning.

Posted by Tracker and Changeling on 9/17/2002, 7:34 pm
Tracker is trying to get some kind of message across, since he can see his partner's irritation building. She's nearly at the breaking point when Eva asks that question, and he looks at Changeling sharply, his eyes widening...
Changeling looks calm and collected on the outside, but from witin, a furnacelike rage is building. The first signs of real annoyance show in her dialated pupils as she watches Eva. What is she up to? Changeling remains silent as the woman before her speaks, not trusting herself to reply.
A soft snarl escapes, deep within her throat. A hollow, almost metalic sound, rising from almost too low and soft to be heard, to a steady growl. The growl breaks off into a soft, dangerous hiss, but she does nothing. Yet.

Posted by Eva on 9/23/2002, 10:00 pm
Eva shrugged as if to say, "Do what you will," then she opened her mouth to speak. "I merely thought to pose a question to you. Did you come here expecting to rescue Joey from some obscure fate? Or did you come here for other purposes...?"
Then Eva shook her head slightly, closing her eyes as if to shake off her serious mood and seeming innocent questions. Her silver-plated eyes slid open once more and an almost-sheepish smile graced her man-made features. "Forgive me, I am poor host."
Then she stepped closer, slowly, now cautious of Changeling's anger, and extended a hand as if to lead her somewhere. "Here. Let me show you what you are getting yourself into. You may find you wish to back out."

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 9/26/2002, 8:58 pm
Changeling stares at Eva's hand as if it were poison. When she glances back up, her eyes are full of suspicion; she's not going to touch this.. being untill she knows some more about her. She shrugs cooly, having regained gontroll of her outer appearance, at least. There's more to this than meets the eye, and she knows enough to be careful. "Show me whatever you wish, I doubt it'll change anything." Though her voice is calm, her faintly Irish accent is a sure sign of impending complete loss of controll.
Tracker watches the exchange with a practiced eye. The effort it's taking Changeling to controll herself must be phenominal. He's relieved that Eva has shown at least a little caution for the situation. Having his parnter tear her apart would have put a definite damper on their plans.

Posted by Eva on 10/9/2002, 8:16 am
Eva let her hand drop to her side once again. "Very well," she declared, her voice breathy with the accompanying sigh.
The only sign anything perhaps out of the ordinary might be happening was that all of Eva's attention came to focus directly on Changeling. Her ever-rotating, ever-shifting eyes came to rest, completely still for once.
Then a flash of power raced through Changeling like a current of electricity. It seemed to come from the floor itself, traveling up through her feet. But perhaps it came in from the walls, traveling through the air to aim and hit directly at the woman. Or perhaps it was neither of these. Wherever it came from, whatever it was, it was entirely too quick to react to and prevent from happening, and it's affects were odd.
The power did not hurt her at all, rather, it burst through her mind and poured into her body, rendering her unconscious and gently lowering her to the floor like an unseen hand cupped around Changeling's body.
But the power was not completely leashed and tamed for its overflow rushed into Tracker, trying and grappling to do the same to him, though perhaps all it made him was numb in mind and body.
Eva watched, indifferent and apathetic yet at the same time intensely focused and interested.

Posted by Changeling and Tracker on 10/9/2002, 7:46 pm
Changeling has no time to react, and the thought barely has time to register that comming here might not have been her best idea. Then the world goes black and she knows no more.
Tracker is quick enough to snap on his talent. He'd practiced his ability to become invisible to all senses for so long, it had become almost automatic. Whatever power had knocked his partner out would have a difficut time finding anything to latch on to. Which is probably why it didn't have as great an effect on him as it had on Changeling. He remains in his shield, partly from a hesitancy to take it down, and partly because he was rather out of it at the moment.

Posted by Eva on 10/10/2002, 8:16 am
The faintest of smirks graced her man-made features as her eyes lingered on Changeling's prone form. Then it faded once again into a serious business-like expression as her eyes began to whirl as her gaze roamed once again.
"Computer," she said, and one got the feeling that her words were for show only, "take us down."
And with that the floor panels beneath Changeling, herself, and Tracker began to lower like mini-elevators, sinking down below the floor level. The motion was smooth and unhurried, and when the metal squares came to a halt they were once again imbedded (sp?) in the floor--just this time it was the room's below the one they had just left. If one were to look up, he would see the holes in the ceiling from where they had come begin to cover themselves with sliding panels and he would hear their soft clicks as the fell into place.
This new room was just as large as the one above it, except this one did not appear empty in the least. A dentist's-like chair was situated a little to the right of them, accompanied with a table decorated with various strange devices. There was a black leather couch on one far wall and an overstuffed chair and coffee table situated like a sort of mock-waiting room. There were no windows, and no apparant doors.

Posted by Tracker on 10/23/2002, 8:47 pm
Tracker watches the descent calmly, mostly because he's still somewhat paralized. He's still in his sheild when the reach the bottom, and would've laughed. This stuff reminds him of a setup he had going once to catch someone, and it's probably just as much for show as his had been. He's somewhat curious to see what this process will take, since he's never had access to this kind of expensive equipment before.

Posted by Eva on 11/1/2002, 9:37 pm
A smile tugged at the corners of her silicon-enhanced lips as she gestured towards the "waiting" corner of the room. "Please," she said, with hostess-like pleasantness, "have a seat, I won't take long."
Then she walked over to Changeling, looking down at her with eyes that whirled and gave away nothing. After a moment of silence, she stooped down, and, straightening again, proceeded to place her in the operation chair.

Posted by Tracker and Changeling on 12/5/2002, 8:19 pm
After a moment, Tracker could move again, and he made his way to the waiting room, sinking gratefully into a chair. Whew! What was that shock anyway? Oh well, best just wait this out. He was rather curious about the equipment arround the chair, and watched Eva carefully, his semi-photographic memory may just come in handy some time in the future.
Changeling, limp and unresponsive, never twitched as she was lifted from the floor. That sedative must've been mightily powerful stuff.

Posted by Eva on 12/13/2002, 7:49 pm
The man-made woman's lips curved up in an amused smirk as she went about the "dentist chair", proceeding to strap the mutant in with leather belt-like straps obviously more for show than anything regarding useful.
Then, abruptly a square tile from the floor began to raise itself, revealing a cylindrical device beneath that slowly flipped over and expanded to be a console of sorts. Eva immediatly began to adjust knobs and peer at its several LCD screens and bar graphs.
Without once glancing at Tracker, a similar tile from the floor rose up beside where he sat. This time when it flipped over a glass of still, clear water was offered to him.
"Drink." The mechanical woman's all-too-human voice drifted over to where he sat. "It'll help in recovering yourself."

Posted by Tracker on 1/13/2003, 7:02 pm
Tracker watches the proccess curiously, and hesitates only a moment when the liquid is passed to him. There's really no reason why he shouldn't trust Eva... except for odd suspicion he feels around her. But then again, he's suspicious of everyone, so this is nothing terribly disturbing.
He sips at the glass of water, his eyes glued to Eva's movements. He only hopes this mind-wiping device works.. he'd hate to lose Changeling as a partner... erm.. again. Sure he's good working alone, but still; he's got a reputation to keep up. And losing one's partner isn't exactly a good thing in his field, especially if he wanted to find another one any time in the near future.
Ah well. He returns his focus to the situation at hand. There'll be plenty of time later to figure things out if this didn't work.

Posted by Eva on 1/13/2003, 9:59 pm
Eva proceeded to push a few more buttons and turn a few more knobs, never moving her eyes from the bar graphs. She seemed to be adjusting the amount of something, the time, the When of the memories. The man-made woman moved with the cool, relaxed confidence of someone who knew exactly what she was doing.
Energy poured from somewhere into Changeling: that much was obvious. What was not obvious was how it was directed, or just what sort of energy it was. Perhaps it was chemical based--if so, it would make sense, being that memories were only a bunch of jumbled chemicals in the brain, anyway. Yet perhaps the energy was something more.
Momentarily, Changeling glowed, seeming to be lit from within. Then the luminescance receeded to her natural skin color.
Eva smiled to herself and glanced away from the moniters for a moment to look down at the creature under her power.
"Ah, isn't technology a wonder? Every complex thing can be made simple. Americans really are into this 'instant gratification' thing, I hear. Makes sense." The swirling-eyed woman turned her smile on Tracker.

Posted by Tracker on 2/19/2003, 7:42 pm
Tracker watches the entire procedure intently, smiling as Eva comments about technology. "Very, very true." he's still a but tingly from whatever that shock had been, but it's wearing off nicely.
He flexes his hands, clenching and unclenching them into fists to work out the last of the faint numbness. He'd forgotten that his sheild was up, so he lowers it, returning to visibility.
"So," he asks idly, watching Changeling in her 'densist's chair' "Exactly what did you do to distract Joey? I would've expected him to come runnin' when Changeling was back in town. 'Specially since she must've been thinkin' of him like crazy." he drinks the last of the clear liquid in the cup, then sets it back on the table and leans back into his cushioned chair, relaxing tensed muscles.

Posted by Eva on 2/21/2003, 8:38 am
The robot smirked as she turned back to the moniters, continuing to adjust various knobs and what-nots. "The MTHS still has a few bomb-bots that escaped dismantling. I just sent one to blow up a large enough building where an angel might be needed. Nothing too grand or creative, but it worked. I just figured he still has enough sense to choose duty over love. However, that may not always be the case...."

Posted by Tracker on 3/24/2003, 2:37 pm
"Ahhhhh.." he nods, visibly impressed. Tracker stands and stretches, working the weakness out of his joints left behind by whatever it was that had stunned Changeling. "I see. It was an admirable gamble, but I agree.. It may be better to let her" he jabs a thumb at Changeling, still unconcuous in the chair "take care of his.. ah.. affections." he smirks cooly, knowing just exactly how his pertner would "take care" of things.

Posted by Eva on 4/26/2003, 5:29 pm
Her chuckle could be interpreted as almost malicious. "I can imagine."
Then with a few final taps to the controls, she turned and walked over to him. With each step she took, her eyes rotated a little more as her focus was forced to change.
"Her memory has been wiped and stored," she said, and held up a hand, palm open to reveal a small, flat--but otherwise indescript--device. "If you want to hold on to them, you may. They might come in handy later--perhaps for any possible manipulation."
And as she offered it to him, she continued, "We should leave now. I can take us out the back way so our exit won't be generally noticed. Your shielding should help you from there.
"How do you feel? Strong enough to carry her as well, or do you have something else planned? I can escourt you if you'd prefer that." She smiled and raised a questioning eyebrow.

Posted by Tracker on 5/15/2003, 7:25 pm
Tracker takes the offered device, peering at it thoughtfully. He's not sure he wants to have something like this lying around, but then again, it might be worse to not take it. He knows Changeling won't think to question his word and her memory... he'll just have to make up a story about what had happened to the time she'd be missing. Well, it wouldn't be the first time.
He places the device securely in a sewn-in pocket on the inside of his jacket, up near the collar. It's a secret, and it's secure; he'd know if someone were trying to pick that pocket.
Tracker nods in answer to her question, then strides over to where Changeling lays on that 'dentists chair.' He lifts one of her arms across his shoulders, slides one hand around her shoulder and lifts. She comes up and his other arm goes under her legs as he lifts her almost without visible effort.
He turns to Eva, adjusting his burden slightly for comfort "So, where to?"

Posted by Eva on 6/14/2003, 2:06 pm
"Just follow me," she said, then walked smoothly over to one wall, unremarkable in its plainness. Behind her, the "dentist's chair" and computer moniters were already disappearing into the floor in her wake. She reached out with one hand then, and put her palm to the wall. And as she splayed her fingers, the pannel gave a jerk onto its track then smoothly slid back and away. Then the pannel above it began to slide away as well, revealling a six foot tall, three feet wide door to the outside world.
Eva stepped through and onto the cement landing and concrete stairs leading up from the basement and onto ground level once more. She ascended quickly, then stepped out of the way for him to come up the stairs as well. She stood there waiting for him, lightly balanced on the curb of the MTHS Headquarters parking lot.
When he had ascended as well, she pointed out directly in back of her towards a row of trees that lined the other end of the parking lot. "If you go that way you will come across some alleys that will make you travel quicker: no one will stop you, wondering why you're carrying an unconscious person. Even with your mutation it's safest that way. Any MTHS personnel about will have the ability to see through your power, and if there are any about at this hour, they will be on the other side of the building." She guestured absently in the other direction, vaguelly off on the other side of the building.

Posted by Tracker on 6/24/2003, 6:41 pm
Tracker followed with his burden, saying nothing, but then again, there really wasn't much to say. When they had both ascended to the street level his shields went up instinctively, and he smiled at her comment about the technology that would be able to see through them. Despite the android's proof that she actually could see him with his shields up, he still doubted they'd be able to catch him, intangibility being as slippery a state as it is. But he shrugged mentally and decided that it's best to stay cautious, just in case.
He nodded in response to Eva's directions, hefting his partner into a more comfortable position. More comfortable for him, that is, he had no idea if it made her more comfortable. After a moment to get his bearings -he never much liked being inside, sice he got all turned around without being able to see the buildings and streets around him- he turned back to Eva and thanked her, his voice seemingly comming out of thin air "Many thanks, milady," he said, a smile in his voice "'Don't call us, we'll call you,' eh? I suspect that Changeling will be up and around within a day.. or in her case a night." he comments, waiting for either orders or a plain dismissal.

Posted by Eva on 6/25/2003, 10:46 am
Eva's smile was that of pure amusement. "Did you want my phone number?" It was hard to tell if she was being serious or not.

Posted by Tracker on 6/25/2003, 2:57 pm
At that, Tracker couldn't help but laugh "Now there's something a lady hasn't offered me in quite a while," he commented, waggling his eyebrows, though he still wasn't sure if she could actually see the expression. "So unless you happen to have anything planned between now and tomorrow night, I believe you know where to find us." Then, after a slight bow, he headed off off toward the alleyways that would ensure his safe passage, bearing away his burden.

Posted by Eva on 6/25/2003, 9:21 pm
Her answering grin was allusive, but she said nothing, her twisting, whirling eyes just as ambiguous as the rest of her.
She waved as he departed, wondering to herself as she headed back down the basement steps if she really should persue something. That kiss really had been a little too much fun, though. She was sure it might interfere with work--and that was a horribly bad thing. Deactivation for her was of little consequence to the rest of the MTHS company, or what was left of it.