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C R E A T E A D |
Pandemic Adventures
| #1 :: March 13th, 2012 @ 3:04 PM | |
 SlashSlashXis a Sun-Worshipper    509 Posts 639 Achievements  
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During the 2012 Pandemic event I found that the actions described by the site didn't really fit in with how my personer would re-act. While I am having alot of fun with the plot I still feel like writing up my own version of the events and my own take on the situation. This is just a bit of fun and a personal take on the story we are all enjoying. I have no access to what might happen next or when. I've added to certain things because I can and it improves the story so don't worry if you didn't take part in what I'm describing. Its the dreaded artisic lisence at work again. Thanks for taking a look and I'll keep updating when I've got the next part done. I hope you enjoy it! *-*-*-*-* SlashSlashX sighed and resisted the urge to cough. Mercifully it had become a less frequent occurrence meaning her lungs hurt less but on the other hand sometimes she realised that she hadn't been breathing at all. By rights she should be absolutely furious with Fantine for this, it was her dabbling with the undead virus that had produced this and now so many others were suffering! Couldn't she see what she had done? If it wasn’t for Skitters she wouldn't be doing this! But, Slash corrected herself mentally; she would have done this with or without Skitters' request. The truth was she LIKED Fantine. Slash always had done, ever since she had first wondered into the bakery to buy a meal for her first pet Kaori and found the happy baker welcoming her with open arms. There were always good things and good times to be had here. At least, she thought as she pushed open the door of the nearly disserted bakery, there used to be. Fantine looked worse than Slash felt if that was possible. The slump of her shoulders, the dejected countenance, the teary eye... "Looks like she's begun to realise what a decision she's made." Slash muttered as she gathered herself together and smiled. "Fantine!" Fantine looked up with a hopeful look and then sighed when she saw Slash. "You're not here to buy anything, are you?" "Now you know I always buy SOMETHING when I'm here!" Slash replied cheerfully. "It's thanks to you that every diet I've tried has been a complete failure. So how are things? Skitters is wondering about you but you know how busy he can get with the shop around this time of year." Tactfully she avoided the subject of the immense increase in traffic to Skitters as EVERYONE had been infected thanks to the Bakery. Fantine gave a half-hearted smile at Slash's teasing. "Things are... okay. But I just don't seem to be getting the traffic I normally do. I've introduced new lines just for the holidays too!" Slash eyed one of them through her remaining good eye. "Can't imagine why." She murmured as something apparently living slid free of the cake. "I knew it!" Fantine suddenly burst into tears. "They don't like them or my cooking anymore!" Slash rapidly switched her attention back to Fantine. "Oh, now come on! Things aren't as bad as all that!" "B-b-b-but! N-no one l-l-likes them!!" Fantine wailed. Slash placed a comforting hand on Fantine's shoulder and took one of Fantine's limp hands in her free one, giving it a soothing stroke. "There, there! No need to fret! It's just things are a little overwrote, that's all! You know how uptight relations get around this time of year between the Shadow Glen Residents and the other areas. It's all just a bit... new! It’s just going to take everyone a little time to adjust to these fresh delicacies on display. Give it a week and you won't be able to get them on the shelves fast enough! Trust me." Fantine looked up through bleary eyes. "R-r-really?" "Absolutely!" Slash replied with much more confidence than she felt. "Now dry your eyes and let's give your face a bit of a clean." Fantine's very green eye had been leaking what looked like blood. Slash got some water from the kitchen and wiped away at Fantine's cheek while Fantine blew her nose and took a couple of rasping breaths. "You're right. I just need a bit of patients. After all, people buy the snot covered pretzel!" "Exactly! It will all be just fine in a week or less." Slash soothed as she put the bowl away. When she returned Fantine was looking much more cheerful but there was a hopeful smile that was faintly worrying Slash. "You've been very kind. Thank you. Would you like to try one of my new range?" Fantine asked as a Chocolate Brain Cupcake appeared on the counter. Slash gazed at it and felt the pit of her stomach head for better pastures. "Well," She began but another glance at Fantine's hopeful countenance had Slash reaching out for the cupcake. "Chocolate and brain? You really do have the most remarkable taste in combinations don't you?" Slash commented as she examined the cake up close. It looked revolting but that was just to her one remaining human eye. To her more advanced senses it looked...VERY appealing... Still, she should avoid it. She wasn't comfortable with what was happening to her body and she wasn't certain if she wanted to take the next step. "Y-y-you don't l-like it, d-do you?" A sad voice sobbed. Slash looked at Fantine tearing up, looked at the cake and thought: what the heck? She bit into it. Fantine looked up at the sound to see Slash munching on the cake, a thoughtful expression on her face. "At least let me take a bite of it before you say I don't like something." Slash complained through her mouth full. "Oh." Fantine managed. Slash finished chewing and swallowed. There was a pause. "Wow!" Slash began. "This really works! I never knew that brains could be so... creamy!" "You like it?!" "Yes. I think so. It’s not bad. A little rich for my pallet but not a bad mix at all." Slash took a second, bigger bite. Fantine looked absolutely delighted. "I knew it would work! People just had to give it a try!" "Mm-hm." Slash mumbled through a mouthful of cake. It was disappearing a lot faster now as her hunger caught up with her. "But... You didn't seem keen..." Fantine began. "I've been trying to lose some weight." Slash explained. "I haven't really be excising recently and it's starting to show so I'm a little carful about sweets right now." Slash gave a theatrical sigh. "Yet another diet ruined. What is it with you and irresistible treats?" Fantine was rummaging under the counter for something. "As they're not selling and I don't want them to go to waist, you can take a selection with you!" "Really? Well that's very kind of you!" Slash left a few moments later with a box of cakes and a worried mind. Kaori and Delta7 were waiting for her outside on the main street. "So... she's okay?" Kaori asked with a glance at the box. "As well as can be expected." Slash answered. "Why do I smell cake and meat from the box?" Delta wondered. "I'll explain on the way home. For now, the less said about that the better." Slash replied. "You are not actually going to eat the Zombie cakes are you?" Kaori demanded. She had a sharp mind when she chose to employ it. "I already have. It's not as terrible as I thought it would be." Kaori and Delta gazed at their friend. She was changing so fast into something they just didn't know how to deal with. She was still Slash but... But Slash didn't smell so much of a meat larder and shed skin when you touched her. "Come on." Slash spoke as if she had heard their thoughts. "Let's go and check in at the hospital. They'll be keen to hear this and Skitters will be waiting for a reply. He'd probably like some of these and he may need them more if things go on like this." Kaori and Delta followed her. "So what did you eat in there?" Kaori enquired. "Chocolate and brain cupcake." "EW!" Kaori gagged. "Slash! Was that wise?" Delta demanded. "No idea. But I've eaten some weird stuff before. At least I have a good reason for this one." Chapter 2 - Ring Side. Not for the first time did Slash wonder why she had agreed to this. She should be home in bed. Her body was now dripping what looked like pink icing but only when viewed from a distance. Up close it looked more like jellied flesh. But she was not home safe and warm and waiting for news from the Healer and the Hospital. She was seeking out an undead wrestler to discover who it was that had set this plague on the world. Yet another reason on my list for Why I Will Never Get Drunk. Slash thought. By her side sauntered a hazy purple shadow, the only one of the family she had dared to bring down here. Red Redemption was a strange beast. Originally he had gone in for Zapper treatment until there had been the explosion. When he had emerged from the smoke and acidic mist the normally peaceful, quiet Red had become something very different. He wore an expression on his face that looked as if he would happily rip a person’s face off with no excuse and sometimes there were hints of Darkmatter in his normally purple fur. Red spoke of strange things too, of dark magic and bloody battles. Strange things that made no sense as he was born long after they had taken place. Never the less, he was naturally cunning and had a great deal of inherent intelligence and could sense when trouble was about to erupt. If Slash was going to ask around for info on what may have started a worldwide epidemic, she wanted a pet that would know when it was time to cut the losses and flee. “Nice day for walk in the crypts.” Red sneered. He always looked and sounded like he was taking sadistic pleasure in everything around him. “I thought you’d enjoy it.” Slash answered. She had learnt long ago to meet Red’s attitude with sarcasm and misinterpretation. It irritated him but kept him from saying or doing something they’d regret. “I’m surprised you didn’t ask her ladyship to join you.” “I think we both know what Kaori would’ve said to this.” Slash answered. Red sdark-skinneded. “It would’ve been worth it just to see her face.” Slash gave a half-hearted smile as they stepped into the cavern. “Nice digs.” Red commented. Slash didn’t answer but made her way down to the ring. Clues, they needed clues. Without some kind of evidence there was no point questioning anyone. The last thing she wanted to do was give cause to the fighters here to have an impromptu match. Dodging the organisers and various helpers, Slash gazed at the floor. “What’s this?” She muttered as she looked at the congealing mess. “An unlucky competitor?” Red hazarded from the ring. “Red! Get down from there!” Slash hissed. “Why? No one’s using it.” He bounced around the ring, his claws ripping the ancient fabric much to his pleasure. “Get out of it!” Shouted a voice. Red glanced round to see one of the burlier organisers pulling themselves into the ring. “Out of what?” He asked teasingly but his eyes were already looking for Slash as a scapegoat. No pet could be held responsible if there was a suitable adult around and Slash was his legal guardian. She should have pulled him down as soon as she’d spotted him here. A young, impressionable pet like himself could hardly be blamed for high spirits and an inattentive owner. The area Slash had been standing in was currently inhabited by air. A trail of pink footprints showed where Slash had run off to. Realising that Slash had no intention of bailing him out of this one and that other members of the undead community were about to explain to him the rules of ring maintenance, Red shot passed the smaller members, jumped the ropes and ran pelmel after Slash’s footprints. He found her standing behind the seats, well hidden from anyone who may have given chase. ”Oh bravo!” Red snarled. “No back up? Just run? Where was your precious valour and bravery?” “The same place your common sense went when you thought you could get away with wrecking the ring.” Slash sniped. “I am not you’re get out clause no matter what trouble you might have gotten yourself into.” Red growled his displeasure but didn’t push the point. “Well,” He said as he glanced over his shoulder back at the ring. “I doubt we’ll get much help from that quarter.” “We may not need it.” Slash muttered. Red glanced round to see an undead wrestler punching the stuffing out of a set of training dummies. Slash was already walking towards him. “Excuse me? Are you Nacho Muerte?” The hulking mass of green muscle and bone turned to face them. “You have found Nacho Muerte. Autographs will be given after the show. They should be setting up a table for it.” He answered. “I will bear that in mind. But I’m looking for some information.” A large ghoulish green thumb jerked in the direction of the concession tent. “Not about the match. I’ve heard that you have been gathering Spider Venom. Do you mind if-” “I DO NOT CHEAT!” Nacho’s shout didn’t just make Slash recoil. Several people stopped what they were doing to look up in surprise. Spotting the movement, Nacho puffed himself up and moved quickly to Slash’s side. “I would NEVER take anything! I work hard! If you doubt me then take on my training dummies! I work hard to be where I am today!” He snarled. “I never said-” Slash began but Nacho cut her off. “Prove yourself before you try me!” He moved off to a bigger training dummy half hidden in the shadows at the back of the cave. Slash looked at the line-up. “One of them is on fire.” Commented Red. “Yes. Yes one of them is on fire.” There was a pause. “You can’t fight them you know.” Red continued. “You are in no condition to throw a punch even if you had the right weapons.” Slash held out one arm and watched as the pink slime that had once been her arm continued to drip onto the floor. “I’m not, it’s true. Which means we’re going to need help…” “Absolutely NOT!!” Kaori shrieked. “We’re not asking you do stay down there. I’ll be doing the investigating. All you have to do is add to your Battle count.” Slash reasoned. Kaori glared at her and turned back to her Fancy Bed. “There is no way I will go down into that pit just to whack around a few piles of rubbish!” She snapped as she flopped onto her bed. Eloren nodded in agreement. “Why do we need to go beat these things up? Just reason with the guy, I’m sure he’ll come around. Eventually.” “She didn’t ask you. I know it’s hard but please try to keep up.” Red sighed. Eloren got up with a low growl of anger. He could take Red quite easily and the two had never got along. “What’s going on?” Asked a voice from the door. Everyone looked round to see Sophia and Summer Song poking their heads round the door. “Nothing Sophia.” Slash replied. “We’re just trying to agree on what to do.” “Is it about your cold?” She asked as she bounded up to Slash. Slash had yet to explain to Sophia fully what it was that was happening to her and Sophia who had a limited understanding of the Undead had heard the word virus and gone with her experience. Slash didn’t really have the heart to explain to Sophia what was actually going on. “No.” Red put in. He could see an opportunity here. “We were trying to decide if Kaori could defeat four opponents in a row.” Kaori sat bolt upright and stared at Red. “I know that she couldn’t. She has nowhere near the power needed to do such a thing.” Summer Song pouted. “Of course she can! Kaori could do it easily!” “That’s right.” Sophia joined in with the argument. She darted over to Kaori’s bed. “Couldn’t you? You could beat five or six in a row! Four would be like a, a, a game for you! Right?” Kaori suddenly found herself the focus of two sets of adoring eyes practically glowing with certainty and hero worship. “O-of course!” Kaori answered. “Four? Huh! That’s hardly a warm-up for me!” “I knew it!” “See?” Summer Song and Sophia swung round to Red. “She CAN do it!” Summer Song persisted. “Hm. I’ll believe it when I see it.” Red retorted as he examined his claws. “Kaori can do it! She can prove it any time she wants!” Sophia argued. Kaori looked at Slash with a mix of horror and utter helplessness. Slash gazed back with a steady look that basically meant she had no idea how Kaori could get out of this one. Sophia looked back at her big sister. “You’ll show Red he doesn’t know what he’s talking about, right?” “Really? You had to bring in Sophia and Summer Song on this one?” Slash asked an hour later. “It worked. Why worry?” Red answered. Slash observed that he, like herself, where walking a few paces behind the seething Arid Legeica. Kaori prided herself on her taste for the richer things in life and that included hygiene. The Underground to her was as a Spider House was to an arachnaphobe. Never the less, her fear of being made to look like a coward before her baby sisters had brought her down to complete the challenge. And she was spitting acid about it. Given that she was over one hundred levels strong with all her stats maxed, this made for a very powerful, very angry and armed to the teeth volcano that was barely supressing her fury. “Red? Next time you decide to be helpful, can you make sure that it in no way involves angering the trained warrior?” Slash asked. Kaori lived up to her promise, Red had to admit that. When they got to the ring and the dummies Kaori was so enraged that she tore them apart five times over a piece. At the end of it, she stood in the centre of the training ring with pieces of dummy, some of which were still on fire, covering the ground. “Now that it what I call art!” Nacho Muerte applauded from the side lines. “You want a job?” Kaori gave a very low growl of anger. “Er… Maybe some other time?” Nacho offered before he turned hastily to Slash. “Well, you’ve proven you’re a good enough fighter. But wrestling is more than just knowing how to throw a punch!” He glanced up at part of the training dummies that had been embedded in the wall. “Although it does help.” He guided Slash over to a table as he continued. “You need to break a mental sweat! It’s all about out thinking your opponent, knowing what they’ll do next and being able to be three steps ahead of them. Let’s see what they’ve left me today.” It was a puzzle. Slash looked at it and then back at Nacho. He beckoned her to sit down and begin. This really isn’t fair. Slash thought as she picked up the pieces. One of my first toys as a child was a set of puzzles like this one. Old habits die hard and in less time that she had thought she’d need, the puzzle sat completed on the desk. “Well, you’re tough and smart.” Nacho Muerte nodded in approval. Slash tried to focus on his face and not give into the temptation to look around for Kaori and Red. They’d vanished and she knew what that tended to mean. “Now, I just need one more favour from you-” “KAORI!! Put Red down and drop that Nail Bat!” Slash bellowed, cutting off Nacho who looked round to see Kaori about to go to town on the Lilac Escalade. Kaori glanced up with a pleading expression. “Not even tired. She can train with me and the boys any time.” Nacho offered to Slash. “Thank you. What is the other thing you need?” “Well, if I do tell you about the Spider Venom, I stand to take a loss in my earnings. When you start poking about, word will get back to my other employer and she won’t hire me again. I have kids depending on me.” He spotted Slash’s expression. “Don’t think that adults were the only ones affected by the plague.” He said darkly. “Believe me Mr. Muerte, if anyone knows that fact it’s me.” Slash had a grim expression on her face. “Lost someone?” He asked kindly. Slash shook her head. “Took a couple of them in. Their parents… Well, the kids are healthy.” Nacho Muerte nodded in understanding before continuing the subject. “So I need you to go out and draw the crowds in for my next show. Just five more can make all the difference in this game. Can you convince a few more people to come to the show?” “I’ll try.” Slash offered. “Slash!” Squealed Red from somewhere in the ring. “Erm. I’ll take the others with me.” Slash waved as she hurried off to find Red and Kaori. “I wonder who we should ask?” Slash asked as she looked around the Commercial District. “No one. Let’s go home and ask someone clean.” Kaori snapped. “Kaori? If you can’t say something nice, shut up.” Slash growled. Red sdark-skinneded from the opposite side of Slash where he knew Kaori couldn’t reach him without sending Slash flying. “And that goes for you too!” Slash barked. She had had just about enough of the pair of them today. “Kaori, you can go home now. You don’t have to stay with us. You’ve done the journey before and you don’t like it here anyway. Head home and tell how you completed Red’s challenge to everyone.” Kaori glanced at Slash. “I’m staying right here until you’re ready to leave. Try talking to that… ‘girl’ over there.” She pointed out a female zombie waiting by one of the shops. As Slash moved towards her she felt exasperated and happy that Kaori was staying. It was clear she hated being away from Slash and worried about her but she’d rather go call Calvin Blackmoon a lazy geek who was nowhere near as cute as his cousin than admit to it. “Hi there.” Slash began as she got closer. “Are you doing anything tonight?” The girl looked round, took in Slash’s appearance and looked faintly worried. “Are you hitting on me or something?” Slash wished for the millionth time that day that her condition would allow her to wear something other than the Royal bikini she had on. She’d always had sensitive skin but becoming one of the less lively residents of Subeta hadn’t stopped this. If anything, it had made it worse. A bikini was about the only thing she could tolerate wearing. Anything more gave her the sensation of fire ants crawling under her skin. Or what was left of it at any rate. “No, no!” She assured her. “Nothing like that. I was just wondering if you might like to go to the big wrestling match tonight. There are some tickets left and it’s looking like a lot of fun.” Although clearly uncertain about the motive the girl seemed interested. “What time?” Slash gave the time and directions to the location before moving on to the next customer. “The Housing area? Seriously?” Kaori complained. “There are bound to be people down here, let’s try.” Slash replied. “I just hope I don’t have to do any more flirting. That last one was weird.” “Well, considering your current choice in wardrobe- ARG!” Red cut himself off. “Oops. I seem to have trod on your foot. My mistake.” Kaori apologised with a smile. Slash ignored them and looked around. There were a few people, she decided to try and one closest to her first. The man was well dressed in a professionally tailored coat and seemed to be infected with a Butterfly Bruise virus. “Hello. Would you be interested in a wrestling match? There’s going to be a good one at seven.” The man glanced at her. “I’m allergic to crowds.” He sniffed. “I know what you mean.” Slash agreed, thinking of a few times when she had nearly been crushed in a crowd. “But I’m sure that you’ll forget about it once you get involved in the show.” The stranger drew himself up. “How dare you, you, you common Booth Babe! I have a degree in Poetry! I practice flower arranging as my hobby! I am a sensitive soul! Just because I may be a walking corpse, does not mean I enjoy all that barbaric fighting!” Slash was taken aback, more by the fury of the man than surprise at his words. “I did not mean to insult you. I was thinking more of the artistic side of the event.” “Artistic?” He snapped. “Of course. Two warriors engaged in a ring of combat trying to outwit each other in the pursuit of glory. It taps into the very primeval side of the soul and calls to those baser ideals that civilisation has suppressed to a point. While you may be allergic to crowds you cannot ignore the sheer thrill of passion that comes when people are gathered together to share a common goal. It calls to something more within ourselves. As we become part of something much bigger. Even if you find it tedious the sheer pleasure of observing those whose art is important to them cannot be too much of a trial, can it?” The man blinked. “How, do you know of such things?” “Because I read, listen and try to learn. I have found that being in a crowd can produce a far greater reaction that being alone and I wear this outfit because my skin feels like it’s on fire for much of the time. I am NOT a Booth Babe!” There was quiet for a few moments. “Apparently we both need to re-examine our attitude when it comes to judging another.” The man put in. “When is this event?” “Tonight at seven. The central cave.” Slash answered. “Will you be going?” He asked. “I don’t know. Maybe? Why?” “Because I will be there if you are.” He seemed calmer now and was looking at Slash with a curious gaze. “I think there is a lot we can learn from observing the event together.” Red and Kaori came out of the shadows to stand beside Slash. “I will, try and be there.” Slash assured him. “Good. Then so will I.” The stranger bowed as Slash and her protectors moved off. “Okay, now THAT was chatting you up!” Kaori commented as soon as they were out of ear shot. “Maybe so but I don’t get the feeling it was a fling with a girl he was talking about.” “I didn’t know you went in for the intellectual type.” Red smirked. “I don’t go for any type. “ Slash answered. “I’m too busy. We need to find another two people. But I don’t see anyone around.” “Hey! You doing anything tonight?” A voice directly behind Slash asked. Slash turned to find herself facing another Zombie. This one was wearing clothes that made him look like a rocker. Or what a stereo type rocker might look like. “I’m sorry?” Slash enquired completely forgetting her marketing mission. “Oh come on! Don’t you know me? I’m the Undergrounds leading music Legend!” “Are you?” Slash said faintly. “Sure! And let me tell you, a hot babe like you should NOT be sat at home of a Friday night like tonight.” Slash once again wished she could wear SOMETHING more than this wretched bikini. “Who says I will be? I’m going to the wrestling match tonight.” She turned away to find someone else. This guy was coming on way too strong for her taste. “You’re into wrestling?! I’m going to be there you know!” The guy persisted as he hurried after her. “Really?” Slash answered in a tone of disbelief. “Yeah! Me and the band are working the crowd during the break. It’s going to be awesome.” “You’ll need a ticket for that and I don’t see one.” Slash replied. This guy really couldn’t take a hint. “Ah, our manager is buying them now. So I’ll see you there! Wear that outfit babe!” He called as he ran off. “If you go to this thing tonight I am coming with you so I can belt some sense into that creep!” Kaori snapped. “Well, that leaves one more to get. It would seem that outfit has its uses.” Red pointed out. Slash covered her face with one hand. “Urg! Forget this! Let’s just head back to the ring and talk with Nacho. We’ve done enough and maybe we can find someone on the way back!” The one they did find was a sad girl waiting for the guy she was dating to show up. The fact he turned out to be the rocker hitting on Slash did not improve matters but Slash convinced her to come along. “Why did you do that?” Kaori demanded as they left the girl virtually skipping with glee. “He’s a complete creep! He was checking you out the whole time and clearly didn’t think twice about his girlfriend. The sooner she dumps him the better!” “Because I fully intend to see if that Creep has any feelings at all and if not I’ll have her to back me up when I slap him silly!” “So we’re going?” Red asked. Slash stopped walking and gazed at the cave celling. She really just wanted to go home and sleep but… “Yes. We’re going. If I’m going to find out who’s behind this I need to know what’s going on down here. This is my first time among those who call the Underground home but I see no reason for the plague. Who would do this and why are they so desperate?” “And you think that a wrestling match will give you the answers?” Sniped Kaori. “I think that it will help me understand why someone would do this and maybe hear something about them through the gossip of the crowd!” Slash glared at Kaori. She was reaching her limit and her illness was making it harder to control her temper. Kaori looked back with an unhappy expression. Slash relented. “Let’s go talk to Nacho and then go home. I think we’ve done enough today.” Chapter 3 - Ring Riot. The clocks in the Underground began to chime seven. Slash once again with Red at her side moved through the caverns toward the match. Nacho had been delighted with the news that more people where coming and had even been happy about the band. “I know the kid you mean.” He’d said when Slash explained what had happened. “His band is good but he could stand to get a bit more strength of character to him. Still, it will help the crowd get pumped during the intermission. Now. Spider Venom.” Slash had listened in silence as he explained that he had bought the stuff for a woman called Ecks. Slash knew Ecks. She remembered being a complete new comer during her first Pandemic celebrations and finding the statements Ecks had left on the message boards. Back then Slash had been worried about someone speaking up with such fever against the people of the other lands. She had taken comfort in the fact that Ecks had been right about people searching the underground for clues to the mystery of the pastry boxes. It was harsh and it was little wonder that the people there had reacted badly. But a plague? If Ecks was behind this plague then she had gone much too far. There could be a war over this! “Thank you.” She said once Nacho had finished. “Do you think you’ll go back to work for her again?” “No.” Nacho replied firmly. “The money I’ll miss but I love my wrestling work and my other job was keeping me from the kids. I’m happy here. Besides, this is getting dark and I didn’t sign up for this kind of stuff. Thanks for your help by the way.” “No problem. I look forward to your performance tonight.” Slash had smiled. Once back at the house Kaori and Slash had ended up in an argument. Kaori had been determined to come with her to the match and Slash had been just as adamant that Kaori remain at home to take care of the others. They’d argued for well over an hour but Slash had won in the end. She’d told Kaori that the only way she would agree to bring her was if Kaori promised not to insult or look down on a single person she saw there. Even the undead creep and Bug Guy Joe. Kaori just couldn’t promise that. Red, as he could keep his thoughts to himself would be going with Slash and while she was leaving instructions and ensuring that everyone had enough for dinner, Red was facing Eve. Red didn’t get along with Eve. Or rather, he didn’t want to try to get along with Eve. “Why so quiet Eve dear?” He sneered as Eve gazed at him with her piercing blue eyes. “Red, there will be trouble tonight. We both know this.” Eve’s voice was quiet but firm. “Why do you think Slash is taking me along? Not that I’d defend her or anything.” Eve’s eyes narrowed. “Listen to me Red. I’ve agreed with you that what we both know should not be told to the others. I agreed with you when you told me that our game has barely begun. But don’t leave Slash alone tonight. You may not like us and maybe your life would be better without Slash. But I ask you not to leave her behind because she cares for you. Pay back your debit tonight. The debit to Slash for her caring for you and raising you. And because she has never asked what history there is between us and how there can be any history.” Red sneering expression didn’t change. But he didn’t reply either. And now they were both heading into the Underground and towards the wrestling match. “I’m still not clear on how you think this will help.” Red complained as he dodged another foot that had nearly trodden on him. “If I’m going to continue to investigate this, I need to know who it is that will be affected by my stirring things up. You know how angry everyone is on the surface. I want to know the people here while we’re at peace. I made that mistake once before, I’d rather not do it again.” “Dare I ask where you learnt such a lesson?” Red enquired, genuinely curious. He’d never thought that Slash might have her own stories and mysteries to tell. “One day when I have an afternoon free I’ll explain. But not now.” They had reached the Cave. People were everyone getting ready for the show. Slash showed her ticket before she entered the stands. There were people everywhere cheering and laughing in groups as they waited for the show to start. “The aura here is so warm.” Slash commented. “Aura?” Repeated Red. “Yes, the feel of the crowd. There’s no sense of distrust. Rather, everyone here knows they sit in a place where they have a common thread that binds them to everyone else.” Red gazed around the arena for a few moments at the spectators. Apart from the obvious signs, he would’ve said he was at an event on the surface. “Do you really think we’ll go to war?” He asked quietly. “Do you think we won’t?” Slash replied. They started making their way through the crowd towards their seats. About halfway there a familiar voice called out. “Hey babe!” Red whipped round and growled at the Rocker who had spotted them and was coming forward to Slash. Once again, Slash was wearing her bikini. She’d tried. She really had tried to wear more than this but the result had been a torn t-shirt and skirt and Slash laying in a cooling bath for an hour. The plumbing wasn’t’ going to hold up at this rate. “Oh, it’s you.” Slash greeted coldly. “Glad to see ya babe. And you wore the outfit! You have just got to come and meet the band. They’ll love a sugar sweet hottie like you!” He reached for her arm. “How would your girlfriend feel about this?” Slash asked as she crossed her arms out of his reach. “Girlfriend?” He repeated with a fixed smile. “Yes. Girlfriend.” “What are you talking about? Oh! You must’ve met one of my fans. They’re always talking about how they’ll be my girlfriend one day.” He shrugged. “I mean the girl who was sitting all alone in the Root Forest waiting for you for well over an hour. I mean the girl who looked absolutely delighted when I told her that you’d be here waiting for her. I mean the girl who quite clearly knows you very well and supported you from the beginning of your music career. I know this because we talked about you and how you both met. I mean the girl who loves you so much that when another girl in a bikini walked along and told her you’d be here waiting for her believed that they ONLY thing you’d asked me to do was deliver the message to her. I mean the girl who is currently fighting through the crowd to where we’re standing and if you run off or try to put her down in front of me will be heart broken. I mean the girl who, to be completely honest, disserves far better than you because it’s clear that she loves YOU. Not your fame or your money or your image but the guy you are underneath all that.” Slash replied. Rocker glanced over his shoulder to see the girl waving at him as she struggled through the press of people. “Let me be absolutely clear. I do not like you. I dress like this because I have a skin condition that means anything more that this in terms of clothes is agony for me. We can do this one of two ways. You can either break up with her now and set her free while I vanish into the crowds never to see you or her again. Or I can give you the chance to take her along with you for a real date and you can give her the chance she should have with you. So which will it be?” Zombies don’t sweat. Slash thought. The doctors would love to see the first recorded incident of a zombie soaking himself from fright. “There you are!” Laughed the girl as she reached them. “I’ve been looking all over for you! Are you ready for your show?” Rocker looked at Slash and then at the girl who was smiling with genuine pleasure to see him. “Of course! It will be the best set you’ve ever heard. I’ll even dedicate a song to you!” He laughed. The girl looked taken aback. “Really? But, you’ve never done that before.” “It’s about time I did, don’t you think?” He smiled. The girl’s face lit up with pure joy. “Oh that’s wonderful! That’s the most wonderful thing I’ve ever…” She rubbed at her eyes which were looking suspiciously bright as Rocker took her by the hand. “Come on; let’s go check in with the band. They’ve missed you, you know?” He said as they moved off together. “Now why would that creep do that?” Red asked. “Because he does love her. He started getting popular and suddenly had all these girls after him. It turned his head and made him forget who had thought him the best from the start. Whether it lasts is up to them but at least the creep is off my back.” Slash sighed. They made their way to their seats as the show began. Nacho Muerte was clearly the crowd favourite and put on a terrific performance with his signature holds and throwing his opponents around the ring. The other wrestlers were skilled but very few had the same joy in the ring as Nacho. “You can see why he’s so popular can’t you?” Slash commented as Nacho’s latest opponent was dragged out of the ring to have his leg stitched back on. “I’d prefer more blood.” Red answered as he gazed at the event with a bored expression. “Come on; let’s see if we can get some water before the music set.” Slash offered as she and Red got up from their seats to move through the crowd to the concession stand. “Looks like Fantine sent down some of her latest creations.” Slash mused as she looked at some of the snacks the crowd were enjoying. “Maybe I should talk to her about this. Will she take the next step do you think?” “Who cares?” Red growled. He was finding the crowd more than a little hard to deal with. Slash glanced round for an open space where they could get some air. At that moment a voice came screaming across the speakers. “Brothers and sisters!! Do not let those pigs on the surface steal your rights!” Slash looked around at the ring to see someone shouting into the mike the referee had been using. “Inciting the crowd to violence. Something interesting at last.” Red observed. Ignoring the pink jellied flesh that would stick to him, Red pushed against Slash in a bid to get her to move towards the exit. Slash glanced down at him and began to move through the crowd towards the exit. Security had arrived and were trying to get the guy to shut up. A number of sympathisers were moving through the mass of people to stop them and arguments were beginning all over the place. Slash pushed harder to escape, this was getting very dangerous and she didn’t have the strength to fight if it came to it. More and more people had realised the same thing and were trying to leave before any trouble started. Slash glanced round, suddenly realising that Red was nowhere to be seen. “Red? RED? WHERE ARE YOU?” Slash called. The crowd was pushing in earnest now and Slash was trapped by the press of people. “Urg, Red!” There was a shriek and everyone started running as the sound of a brawl started from the ring. Slash was knocked down by those behind her with more strength. She struggled to try and rise only to get stamped down to the floor by the rush of people fighting to get away. Other fights were breaking out all over the stands. Nacho and his fellow wrestlers were striving to restore order along with security. The sound of seats being torn up was starting to mix with the shouts and roars of the crowd. Slash lay on the ground in a great deal of pain and completely disorientated. People were running all around her and she couldn’t get up to escape. Someone grabbed her arm and hauled her to her feet. Slash jerked her head round to see yellow skin, slicked black hair and red strains of the butterfly bruise virus. “So it is you Pretty One.” Chapter 4 - Split up. Red pulled himself up onto one of the many rock shelves that dotted the Underground and waited. He was very, very angry. Slash had the right idea in getting out when he’d given her the signal but other morons had stood about like lemons and when they had started to move they pressed together at one exit so no one could escape. Damn fools! The worst part was he’d lost Slash as soon as the stampede had begun. He’d watched the crowds for a sign of her but while he saw a number of people with the Bakers virus he did not see Slash. Red remained on the rock shelf and considered his choices. On the one hand he could leave Slash behind and carry on with the work he had to do. He didn’t want anyone to see what it was he had planned and Slash had been useless in the extreme but at the same time… What had she meant when she said she had seen it all before? Had there been another time like this? When? Who was Slash really? She spoke of strange things that he sometimes found hard to follow. Most laughed it off as Slash being Slash. She was known to be a dreamer after all. But what if… Red growled in frustration. Eve had been right, damn it all! He couldn’t leave Slash behind. For better or worse he liked Slash and right now he found her useful. Red crept along the shelf to begin his search. What happened after the stranger hauled her to her feet, Slash wasn’t completely sure. She remembered leaving the Cave and more than a few panicked citizens running into her but not a lot else. She knew that the stranger had held her upright though, she recalled thinking that he would never get the pink slime she produced out of his cravat. After that everything was either a blur or a complete blank. It was from this state that she began to come to. Her mind registered that she was asleep and she shouldn’t be. Her skin started telling her that she had a blanket over her and, surprisingly, it wasn’t bothering her skin complaint too much. Then the events that had led to her passing out started to come back. Normally Slash would have sat bolt upright and tried to get her bearings but right now that was too much effort. She had been sleeping so badly lately and her body was not keen on any activity that involved effort at this moment. Never the less she opened one eye. The site that greeted her was not home. It looked like a shanty town beyond the window but this house had been decorated with more care. Soft candles in one area threw light over cream blue walls with a bookshelf covering one wall. A table and chair sat over to one side, a beautiful arrangement of flowers bloomed on the window nearby and the place was clean. The bed she was in smelt of mould and felt somewhat damp, possibly from the conditions of the Underground which was not known for its dry climate. Yet it still felt soft and well cared for. Where was she? Footsteps approached the door and the owner walked in. Slash’s mind took a few moments to work it out but she realised why he had sounded familiar when he had helped her up. It was the poet whom she had convinced to come to the Wrestling event. He gazed at her for a few moments before coming to kneel by the bedside. “Not yet Pretty One.” He told her as his hand covered her eyes. “You need to rest for some time yet. Soon enough we will talk but for now, sleep.” And against all reason Slash did. Sometime later, Red pulled himself to the surface from the caves. The riot was just too much. He couldn’t get through the crowds to find any trace of Slash and now fighting had broken out between the two sides. There was nothing he could do to find Slash until things settled down and he could return without fear of being caught up in the violence. This left him with another problem. He had to return home and tell the others or he would be hampered- Correction, he would be beaten within an inch of his life or more once Kaori got a hold of him. And she would, she had a gift for showing up just when you weren’t expecting her to. With her to watch his destruction would be the entire gang including Eve and they would all want to know what had happened. He was going to have to tell them before he returned to continue the search. By the time he got back the fighting should be contained and he could start searching effectively. However if he stood so much as a hope of ensuring he was not accompanied by everyone back home he would have to go to the one creature he never wanted to speak to again. Growling his fury, Red turned for home and prepared to beg Eve for her help. Chapter 5 - Racquel Hours later, Slash reluctantly came round. It started slowly with her mind waking up first and her body demanding the attention a body needs to survive. At first Slash wouldn’t acknowledge either, preferring instead to slip back into sleep. She did a number of times but was woken up again soon after. At least it felt like it was soon after, she couldn’t really tell. But there was something wrong, she knew that. Something important that she needed to do… She mulled it over while she dozed. Something… What was it? Something to do with yesterday. She had been out shopping when she’d received a call from Skitters. He’d wanted her to investigate… The wrestling. Last night came back in a rush and Slash snapped her eyes open. She was still in the same building as she had been before. The bedroom she had seen in those few moments of awareness before she had gone back to sleep. The room was done up in a tasteful white and blue colouration she noticed and the window had actually glass in it. How long had she been out for? She got up and made her way slowly to the door. She was still mussy from sleeping so long but she needed to work out what had happened. The door to the bedroom opened on well-oiled hinges and she stepped out into a spacious living room with kitchenette in one corner. A comfortable looking sofa stood opposite the French windows which had a commanding view of the town as it spread further into the cave system and overlooked one of the many caverns that went straight down so directly that no one could build there. Sitting in the centre at a delicate white dining table, reading a book and relaxing was the poet. His eyes flicked to her as she entered. “So, awake at last Pretty One. I was not sure if you would do so today.” He was well turned out in a loose shirt with cravat although that had only been partly tightened and black form fitting jeans. His hair had been combed back from his face and it was clear he groomed himself often. Slash tried to take it all in. “I’m sorry for stealing your bed. I didn’t mean to sleep so long.” She began. The poet picked up a sliver bookmark and closed the book on it. He got up to face her. “I do believe you had a great need of it than I. You slept for a very long time.” “Really? How long have I been-” “Introductions first Pretty One. We can talk at our leisure over dinner.” Slash stared at him. Dinner?! How long had she been asleep for?!? “My name is Racquel, at your service.” The poet continued. “And who do I have the pleasure of addressing?” Slash shook her head to try and clear it; she was still finding thinking difficult. “I… am called SlashSlashX.” “SlashSlashX? What an extraordinary name.” Raquel mused. “Don’t tell me you were expecting something feminine and soft?” Slash challenges. Racquel smiled. “Well said. Take a seat and I will try to answer any questions you might have about the situation.” He indicated a chair and while Slash made herself comfortable Racquel moved to the kitchenette to begin making some dinner. “How long have I been asleep for?” Slash began without preamble. “Let me see. About one day and two nights. You are clearly very unwell. I have not seen such a drastic reaction to any of the viruses before.” Racquel answered. Slash gazed at nothing for a few moments while she tried to absorb what she had just been told. Nearly two days?! How was that even possible?!? What about everyone back home? Were they safe? They’d be out of their minds for worry that was for certain. And Skitters… She hadn’t told him she had gone to the Match and right now she needed to talk to him about the riot. She stood up. “It was very kind of you to take care of me while I was unwell and I thank you for the offer of dinner. But I must be going now.” Her words came in a rush as she tried to think what she had to do first. Racquel raised an eyebrow at her. “I think you’ll find that right now you need to eat and drink something before you proceed.” “What? Oh, no. Thank you. I’m fine.” Slash answered but a wave of dizziness had her stumbling back down into the chair. Racquel turned back to dicing whatever was going into the dish. “I understand your distress. I know that there are friends waiting for you but until you’ve had a chance to recover some of your strength going anywhere would be rather pointless. You don’t have the energy to return to your family and tensions are mounting out there in the Underground.” “Things are getting worse?” Slash whispered. It didn’t seem possible. Could the riot just be the beginning to something much greater? The thought made Slash feel sick. “It would seem so.” Racquel put whatever it was he had been making into a steamer and turned back to Slash. “Which brings me to you. You’re working for Skitters, aren’t you?” Slash didn’t answer at first. Her first thought was to deny the claim. After all, who knew if she could trust him? But she owed Racquel a great deal for saving her from the riot. Besides, how had he known? She had never told him, had she? When it came to the bottom line, she wanted to be honest. Right now she needed help and he was the only one offering it. “Yes. He asked me to investigate when I caught the illness from Fantine.” “Fantine? There have been rumours as there always are. Can you tell me what’s happening top side? I haven’t been up there for some time and right now I wish to know why everyone is so close to all-out war.” “Short version? Fantine decide to become a member of the undead so she could remain with Skitters and someone sold her a virus.” Slash pointed at her skin. “This virus to be exact.” “They didn’t bite her?” Racquel asked in surprise. “No. That’s the thing. It’s air born. I caught it just from stepping inside the shop. I’m not the only one this happened to either.” Racquel placed one hand over his eyes. “How many people have been infected?” He asked shakily. “The only ones who haven’t are the ones who haven’t left their homes or seen anyone in nearly two months. It’s tough to say how many of them there are but they don’t have much in the way of numbers. Let’s just say I haven’t seen a single uninfected individual since January.” Slash sighed. She was starting to feel very tired again. “Everyone?!” Exclaimed Racquel. “Everyone Top Side has this illness now?!” “Mmhm.” Slash answered. She placed her head in her hands and tried to regain her focus. She was so close to just drifting off again. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up. Racquel was standing beside her and pushed a drink into her hand. “This will help you stay awake. Dinner will be ready soon.” Slash gazed at the drink. It looked like it had been made with some kind of red syrup but she somehow doubted that was the case. Still, right now she needed the energy hit. She drank without giving in to her curiosity and asking Racquel what it was she drinking. “No wonder things have been so tense. There’s been a larger influx of tourists and new comers here lately too. Many, many more than we typically have. I did wonder why and I’ve become more concerned. The Underground cannot hold all these new comers. For the first time in our history we are facing over population and our natural resources being over exploited. Considering we are all undead this is a very dangerous problem.” He pulled the dish out of the oven and began to set the table while Slash sipped her drink and got her thoughts in order. “How is the SAI coping?” He asked as he divided the dish between them. “They’re not as far as I can tell.” Slash replied. “The SAI have never trusted anyone very much. Right now, they’re having an almighty fight within themselves over what’s happening and who is to blame. I understand a lot of agents get their lunch from the Bakery. Or, rather, they used to. For now the need for diplomacy and their own desperate search for a cure is keeping them out of the Underground. Once they have the cure however I wouldn’t like to say.” Racquel ate quietly for a few minutes and let Slash sate her own hunger. She couldn’t believe how famished she was! She focused hard on that and avoided thinking about what it was she might be eating. “So Skitters realises that his lover has been infected by something, something which has attacked almost everyone else who is not already a member of the underground kingdom, and asks you to look into it?” Racquel summed up. “Yes. I… I am not coping well with this transformation. I need a cure and the best place to find a cure is to find where the virus came from. It’s a start even if I’m wrong.” Slash admitted. “Can I have another helping please? It’s very tasty.” Racquel sighed and got up to get another serving. “I must confess,” He mused as he gathered up another plate full and the next course. “I have never seen anyone with any of the viruses sleep for so long. Normally, once you’re passed the half-way point you become stronger. Is this an effect of the virus do you think?” “I don’t think so.” Slash replied as she took her plate back. “I one of a very small number this has happened to. But I’ve always been very sensitive. I don’t think who ever made this expected my sort of reaction.” “If you ask me, who ever made this illness did not think at all.” Racquel countered grimly. “They have brought misery to all, whether they live above or below the surface.” Slash ate her second helping more slowly. Racquel was right and it was not a comforting thought. “Racquel? Can you help me?” Asked Slash as she reached a decision. “Help you? How?” “I need to talk to Skitters. The riot at the wrestling Match could be the beginning of something much more serious. If I’m going to get to the bottom of all this I’ll need some help getting through the cave system. It’s clear my health isn’t the best even though I’m at the final stage of this virus. If you think you’d be willing to help me find out what’s going on I’d be very grateful. I’m sure Skitters would be too.” Racquel gazed at her over the table with an unreadable expression. “Er… I’ll understand if you don’t want to. As I said before the odds are this will be dangerous and goodness knows where it will all end. I can see why you’d rather stay here and write your poetry in peace. After all, it’s not your problem to solve. Never mind.” Slash continued and looked away. She was feeling embarrassed. What am I thinking?! She demanded of herself. I owe him my life and I try to drag him into this mess?! No way am I thinking clearly if this is how I’m behaving. “I will consider it.” Racquel replied, interrupting her thoughts. “For now, would you like some dessert?” They spent the rest of dinner chatting about poetry, art and other subjects they enjoyed. Racquel was clearly very well educated and had few opportunities to enjoy his passions in conversation. Slash was just as delighted to discuss her ideas and opinions with someone new but her flagging energies soon had her desperately trying not to yawn at the table. Racquel noticed her attention waning and smiled sympathetically. “Perhaps we should continue this discussion tomorrow.” He suggested. ”Oh! I’m fine. Don’t worry. We can continue if you’d like.” Slash said brightly. “No. I will probably be heading for bed myself soon. We can continue come the dawn.” Slash stood up gratefully. “Then I will make my way home. Thank you so much for dinner. It was excellent.” She turned to make her way slowly to the door. “Do you really think you will make it home? It’s pretty clear your strength has yet to return.” Slash stopped and put out a hand to support herself against the wall. “I’ll be alright. Besides, I can’t keep taking your bed.” She laughed. Racquel shook his head and took her arm. “Come, you can stay here tonight.” “But-” “I absolutely insist. I assure you I don’t mind a bit. Things out there are still very tense and some of the Spies of Skitters, if you will, have been making a counter against the rioters. You will be much better off here than out there. Besides, I have a guest room you know so you have hardly deprived me of my bed.” He spoke firmly as he turned her from the door and guided her back to the room she had been sleeping in. Racquel was surprised to find that the covers on the bed had been neatly turned back but didn’t stop until Slash was resting on it. “This really is very kind of you.” Slash murmured. Her eyes were already closing with fatigue. “Not at all. Get some rest. Tomorrow you will need to find and speak with Skitters.” Slash muttered something unintelligible before her eyes closed completely and she slept. Racquel made sure she was tucked in and the curtains were closed before he left her to rest. Outside of her room Racquel paused. What on Subeta was he doing taking a young lady into his home without a chaperone or any of her friends knowing where she was? And why, when she had asked him for help, his mind had begun planning how he would help her before he’d even made the decision he would? Because she was different. Because she had challenged him and his perceptions. For the first time in a long time he was able to converse on subjects of science, philosophy and art with someone who knew what it was he was talking about. He had forgotten just how refreshing it was to converse without needing to give someone the background reading first. Besides, if what she had described was true, then his home was at risk. Someone had done something drastic and if this went its course it was likely to bring down the peace between the Underground and the Surface. No, this had to be sorted out. Now, if only Slash could gather the necessary strength to see it through. @Eva @springjoy @likepavlovsdogs A sound pieced Slash’s sleep, dragging her away from the deep rest of the very sick by sheer muscle response. Slash registered the sound and that her arm had begun to seek the source out without bothering to wait for her to wake up. While fingers made sluggish by sleep groped for the object her mind finally pieced together what it was. “Damn phone.” Slash growled as she finally got a hold of it. “What?” Slash greeted as she accepted the call. “SLASH! Oh thank Shinwa! We were so worried! Where are you? I’ll come down right now and get you so you can come home!” It took Slash a few moments to work out where she had heard that voice before. “Kaori?” She asked. “Of course it’s Kaori! Who did you think it was?!” There was a lot of noise in the background which sounded like the others arguing over who would get to talk to her next. Slash flopped back against the pillow and wondered what the time was. She needed more sleep and she had to go see Skitters. But she couldn’t abandon everyone. “No! Be quiet for five minutes! Slash are you still there? Listen to me. You need to come home and get some rest. Tell me where you are and we’ll be right down!” “Kaori? I need you to do something for me that you’re not going to like.” Slash tried as her sense woke up enough for her to start thinking. “I’ll do whatever you want once we get you home! Tell me where you are!” “Kaori-” “TELL ME WHERE YOU ARE!!” There was a pause. “I’m in the Underground.” Slash answered. “Yes. I had gathered that Slash. Where in the Underground.” Sighed Kaori with strained patients. “If I tell you will you promise not to slam the phone down and come racing down here?” “What? Why not? Slash you need-” “I was resting Kaori. I have had a good diner and a long rest. It’s why I didn’t contact you. I have slept deeply for the first time since I got this virus. I’m staying with someone called Racquel. He got me out of the riot at the Wrestling Match.” “Riot? What riot? Red didn’t mention any riot!” Kaori exclaimed. “Ah.” Slash began. “Grab him! Don’t you dare give me that look Eve!” “We thought we had better break it to you gently!” Eve’s voice, distant in the background could still be heard. “Kaori? We got separated in the riot. It wasn’t Red’s fault. He got me moving so I avoided the worst of it. If he hadn’t I would have been in the centre of the fighting. He did the right thing by coming to find you when he lost me. Don’t blame him.” “I can if I want! A RIOT?! A riot of all things!” Kaori snapped. “Do you know why the riot happened? Riots don’t tend to happen at wrestling matches. The crowd is usually too busy with the action.” That did it. There was a pause while Kaori thought about the problem. “Someone set off a fight. Who?” Kaori said. “I’ve no idea. But they said they were in support of Ecks and her meet in the Cavern later this week.” “Ecks again.” Kaori hissed. “First spider venom and now this. What is going on?” “I don’t know but it’s getting tense. The Underground is becoming wary of Skitters Spies as they call us. Kaori I can’t return to the surface right now. If I’m going to get to the bottom of all this I need to stick to the Underground and hear the talk down here. The SAI might be looking to get involved. You saw them at the hospital same as I did. There will be trouble and we need to do what we can to avoid it getting worse.” “Well yes but Slash you can’t stay down there! You need to come home!” “Kaori, remember what I said about the thing you wouldn’t like?” “You’re not serious…” Kaori’s voice had taken on a pleading tone. “I’ll be home soon Kaori but I need you and the others to keep track of what’s going on surface wise. Can you take care of everyone? Can you help me find out who’s done this? I can’t do this by myself anymore.” “Slash? Go back to sleep. You must be worse than I thought not to realise that we’re already prepared to help you with this.” Kaori was suddenly back to being all business. “Thank you Kaori.” “No problem. Now I need to get things organised so I can go to work. Call me when you can come home. Red said he’ll head back down and act as another set of eyes in the Underground. The rest of us will see what’s happening up top. Good night and take care.” “You too. Love to everyone.” Slash finished as she hung up. She lay on her back in the dark thinking about everything that was happening. Slash had wanted to resist dragging her friends into this. Many were still very young and should be kept out of this sort of danger. But things were getting out of hand. If nothing was done soon everyone would be swept up in violence and fear. This had to be solved. It was the last thought Slash had before she fell back into the dark of sleep. Slash woke up the next day feeling alert and ready to tackle the next step of the investigations. Whatever that might be. “I haven’t felt this good in ages!” Slash mused to herself as she stretched. She gazed at her outfit. She really should try and get changed, maybe now that she was feeling better she could head home and at least TRY some new clothes. She had yet to try the vanishing cream to see if that would help her begin to recover from the effects of her skin. Maybe she’d go back after breakfast. Racquel would probably be glad to get back to his peace and quiet. She couldn’t rely on his kindness forever. She opened the door to her room to see that Racquel was not up yet. She wondered over to the kitchenette in search of something to drink. She got a glass and tried to pour herself something from the fridge. But she couldn’t seem to finish the action which would give her the glass of fluid she wanted. Her mind had begun to work again and she was running over everything that had happened. Skitters must know about the riot, he was widely considered the leader of the Underground after all. But had there been any development since then? She had asked Kaori and the others to listen out for news on the surface… She had asked her crew to deliberately go out and gather information at a time when tensions were high and everyone was suspect. Her sunny mood evaporated as she picked up her phone. She put in the number and waited. “Yesh?” Skitters’ drawl was always distinct. “Skitters? It’s me. I’m sorry to bother you so early but I need to talk to you.” Last Edit by:
SlashSlashX 4/20/12 - 3:32:11 pm
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| #2 :: March 13th, 2012 @ 4:11 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage  1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX Well done! I love how you've included your pets, and made the story your own. I am looking forward to reading the next part(s)!
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| #3 :: March 13th, 2012 @ 8:02 PM | |
 Habeebiis a Time Lord  1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Smashing! Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #4 :: March 13th, 2012 @ 9:20 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker  2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
 @SlashSlashX WOOOOT!  Thanks for the ping!  I love it so far! Plus, you really made it your own by incorporating your pets and yourself into this year's plot. Very cool I can't wait for the next installment, plus it hinted in the end of maybe some "help" (perhaps outside help!) so it leaves it open for my imagination to say that perhaps some more characters may show up soon  I could be wrong though XD
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| #5 :: March 14th, 2012 @ 5:31 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @likepavlovsdogs @Eva
Next part is up! I'm glad everyone liked the first two. Would you like me to add in marks to show the latest post? I thought it would be best to keep editing the first post so you don't need to keep scrolling through the topic. More of my pets keep showing up. I need to try and get their profile stories done.
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| #6 :: March 14th, 2012 @ 8:26 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
This one made me laugh. Your pets are quite the handful and I am looking forward to reading their stories too. I think making a mark of sorts when you add more (if it isn't in a new chapter) would be helpful..at least until we've read it and then I guess they'd be unnecessary. Anyways, loved this as usual!
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| #7 :: March 15th, 2012 @ 9:06 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Love the way you worked your pets into it! Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #8 :: March 18th, 2012 @ 3:36 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @likepavlovsdogs @Eva
Next part guys! I know that this is a long one but I'm really getting into this now. I've put a fresh ping at the start of the next bit to make it a little easier for you to get to. I've no idea if this will provide you with a new notice so I've put up this note as well. Let me know if this works and if I'm getting too long winded. Editing stuff down is not something I'm great at.
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| #9 :: March 18th, 2012 @ 4:16 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Oh! I'm having a lot of fun reading this! As for length, what do you think about breaking for a chapter here "The clocks in the Underground began to chime seven." I know it is on the same topic, but it seems a logical place to break it if you are going to.
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| #10 :: March 18th, 2012 @ 4:47 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #11 :: March 19th, 2012 @ 4:26 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @likepavlovsdogs
I've added in the new chapter to try and break it down a bit. I hope this makes it a bit easier. Maybe if I indented the start of each chapter for a visual mark? Love your new styles BTW.
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| #12 :: March 19th, 2012 @ 4:56 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
For some reason EVERYTHING on subeta is centered for me (text alignment, anyways. However..the way you're doing it is really easy for me to scan for the next chapter or section. I'm looking forward to where you are taking this! In fact, I keep checking back in case I've missed a ping. So you know it is good. And thanks! I'm having fun as usual playing with my HA when I should be..oh, rs'ing or something.
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| #13 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 5:13 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @Eve @likepavlovsdogs
Does adding your names to the edit post give you any sort of message? If not then I may stop putting them in. I've decided to continue with this for now even though the plot is basicly over. I still want to do my take on events and I'm having fun writing this. I know I'm dwelling on the business with the wrestling match but I just can't work out how to make fishing interesting so think of this as the Fishing Quest as well. It will be meantioned but that will be character development. Anyway, Chapter four. Enjoy!
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| #14 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 5:28 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
I get a ping that I was mentioned in the forum Not to be disrespectful, but why make it interesting...it was tedious and very frustrating but I don't like fishing to begin with and tbh, I don't think I could have gotten both achievements without @springjoy's help so why not emphasize how it was? Loving the story so far Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #15 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 5:42 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@likepavlovsdogs
That's okay. I'm always after feedback on these kinds of things and I do tend to try and challenge myself in my writings. But I think this is one of those times where I should just skim over it if only for the sake of editing. Thanks for the feed back!
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| #16 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 5:52 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Hmmm...how about making it sort of comical? Red seems to be the outspoken type so how about something like "I'm BOOOOOOOOOOORED! Mum, why do we have to do this.." something like that, it would give your reader more of an insight into your pets personality and at the same time giving comic relief. Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #17 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 5:58 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@likepavlovsdogs
That's a thought. Hm. There's a bit to go before that though so I'll get back to writing and see where we go. Thanks for the thought though!
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| #18 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 6:10 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
No pressure, Slash, feelings won't be hurt if you find another way. As you said, there's a ways to go before the splittfish bonanza and maybe by then something will present itself Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #19 :: March 23rd, 2012 @ 6:28 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX oh wow! I'm really curious as to this new development. It's all quite intriguing.
Also, I DO get pinged each time you mention us in the original post so it is all good.
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| #20 :: April 5th, 2012 @ 10:05 AM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @likepavlovsdogs @Eva
Ha! I haven't forgetten this! I've just been busy trying to get some time to work on it! But the next chapter is now up and ready to go! I'm determend to finish this and with a bit of luck I shoudl have finished the next chapter by next week. Hopefully. Anyway, enjoy!
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| #21 :: April 5th, 2012 @ 6:06 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker 2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX Wooot! Now I'm curious XD I wanna see how you'll possibly end this or just keep it going.. I'm hooked, that's for sure. You're a fantastic writer! For the record, you pinged someone named Eve in the story
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| #22 :: April 20th, 2012 @ 2:54 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@Eva @springjoy @likepavlovsdogs
Here's the next bit! I'm getting there and I will finish this. I hope everyone is enjoying it!
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| #23 :: April 20th, 2012 @ 3:22 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
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| #24 :: April 20th, 2012 @ 3:34 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @Eva @likepavlovsdogs
For some reason my first post won't allow any further edits. So I'll post it here until I can work out what's going on. ----------------------------------- Racquel rose early as he always did but was still surprised to find Slash standing in his kitchenette. “Good morning. Did you sleep well?” He greeted. Slash glanced up. “Yes. I did. Thank you. Did you?” ”Very well. Is something wrong?” Slash seemed distracted. He realised that she was holding a phone and looked worried. “I’ve been speaking to Skitters about the riot and I think I put my pets in a dangerous situation. Skitters has news of his own. He needs me to go to the Grand Cavern and speak to Ecks. It would seem that she has the answers we need and her rally is today. I did not realise I had been sleeping for quite so long.” Slash was quiet in her speech but he could hear how frustrated she was with all of this. “It would seem that today will be a busy day. Do we at least have time for breakfast before we leave?” “You don’t need to come if you don’t want to Racquel.” Slash began, facing him for the first time. “This will be dangerous and I don’t know how far I will need to go. It may be best for you to stay here and not get involved.” Racquel raised an eyebrow at her. “I seem to recall you asking me for aid last night.” He pointed out. ”That was wrong of me. You have no need to investigate this and it will not earn you many friends.” “Never the less it will affect me. I may have peace here now but how long will it last? You said so yourself that things are getting more and more heated. It’s only a matter of time before the SAI come down here looking for answers and when that happens things will explode. I will come with you to Ecks’ rally. You can do the investigating and I will make sure we have a way out afterwards. I doubt you’ll have many friends down their either.” “You don’t have to.” Slash protested. “But I am.” Racquel replied firmly. “Now, shall we have breakfast?”
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| #25 :: April 20th, 2012 @ 5:07 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker 2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX Oooooooh! Cliffhangers! I like the new bit, now I can't wait for the next installment! The site has a certain limit of text per post, so you probably just reached the limit on it. I'd continue posting it like you're doing now Thanks for the ping
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| #26 :: May 21st, 2012 @ 1:29 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@Eva @springjoy @likepavlovsdogs
Since its been a while, here's two chapters and a new post. I'm slowly getting through! ---------------------------------------------------------- Slash gazed at the cave. It looked much the same as it had before only there was a stage instead of a ring in the middle of it and there were a lot more people dashing about. Ecks was sitting in the middle of the organised chaos going over her notes. Slash moved forward, she was not looking forward to this. Questioning Ecks? That sounded like a very bad idea at this point. Besides, she was pretty sure she recognised some of the event organisers from the ones who had started the fight at the Wrestling. Oh well, maybe Ecks would at least keep them from going too overboard. “Excuse me, are you Ecks?” Slash began as soon as she was close enough. Ecks didn’t look up from her notes. “The intern organiser is over there. Welcome to the team.” She commented with all the ease of a practiced politician who has had to say the same line a dozen times a day and yet still mean it. Slash glanced in the direction of the organiser and spotted a very haggard zombie who looked like they’d gladly strangle someone if they thought it would help. Her heart went out to the poor thing but she turned back to Ecks. “I’m sorry to say that I haven’t joined anything. I’m here for some information and I think you can help me.” Ecks paused for a few moments and then looked up as Slash. She put down her pen and smiled. “So you are the one Skitters has been sending on errands.” Slash shifted and briefly considered lying. But that wasn’t what she was here for and Ecks could not be guilty until proven. Right now she needed some help and Ecks seemed like the best bet. Slash tried to ignore the bad feeling that thought gave her. “I’ve been working with him to try and trace this illness if that’s what you mean.” “What can I do for you servant of Skitters?” Ecks nodded. Slash eyed the robotic arm and the green solution being pumped through it. Why did the Doctor spring to mind? “I’ve spoken to Nacho Muerte, your body guard? It was about-“ “Spider venom.” Ecks finished. “It’s worked rather well don’t you think?” Slash gazed at her in disbelief. “You did this?” She asked, pointing at the pile of pink sludge that had once been her body. “Of course.” Ecks pleasant expression became hard. “Every year they come here with their fear mongering and offers to ‘cure’ us. From what? From who we are? Just because we choose a different way of life we are persecuted, attacked and openly reviled just because we don’t fit their ideal. Well now they can use their precious cures on people who want and need it. That way they can leave us alone.” Slash gaped at her and felt like crying while Ecks returned to her pleasant expression. There was silence for a few moments. “Well?” Ecks prompted. “Well what?” Slash managed. “It’s part of my speech, did you like it?” “You’re going to openly admit to everyone at the rally that you have unleashed something worse than the original Pandemic because you were fed up with people coming down here offering to help you? Even if the help was misguided at best I somehow doubt this was the best solution.” Ecks narrowed her eyes. “I take it then that you don’t agree with me.” She commented. “Of course I agree with you.” Slash sighed, surprising Ecks. “You are perfectly right to wish to live your life as you see fit. Whether it is down here or else where is your choice and no one should have the right to tell you otherwise. Last year when you came out against the raids on the Underground I was in complete agreement. What the SAI claim about this place and the people here is wrong. You should be free and happy to live as you wish without needing to submit to another’s views on the world when they are so detached from yours.” “Then you’ll join us and help us improve this world.” Ecks announced with satisfaction. Slash glared at her. “Are you mad?! YOU HAVE DONE THAT WHICH YOU HATE THE MOST!!” Slash shouted. “For years you have put up with those misguided and downright STUPID people who have tried to force you to change. I WAS NOT GIVEN THAT CHOICE! My body has been attacked and changed without my say so! You robbed me of it! You robbed me of my right to choose what to do with my life just like those you despise have tried to do with you. I am in agony thanks to this illness attacking my skin and hurting me every second of every day. I HAVE to wear this ridiculous outfit just to stave off insanity from the pain! I HAVE to cure myself from this if I ever want to be without pain again! People believe in you! They wanted to believe you will help them yet all you have done is justified the fear mongering as you put it! We were wrong to come to the Underground and root through people’s houses but we never attacked anyone. NEVER!! And now you sit there and talk about right and wrong and how I should be helping you to improve the rights of the people when you have denied me the same rights! I may not side with Skitters or the SAI but I will NOT side with you! Not until you understand what it is you have done! You may well have begun us all on the road to war and violence! The people down here who trust you may face the reality of being wiped out because of this! YOU HAVE DONE THE WORST POSSIBLE THING SHORT OF DECLAIRING OPEN HOSTILITIES!” Ecks looked genuinely taken aback and the cave was completely quiet as everyone had stopped to gaze at Slash and her outburst. Slash was panting, her fury, pain and fear at all she had suffered finally released at the one responsible. The surprise on Ecks face faded as her expression harden again. “I can see we have nothing more to discuss. Enjoy pandering to the living with that moronic shop keeper.” Slash turned to leave as Ecks picked up her notes again but Slash didn’t move off at first. “Something wrong?” Ecks demanded sharply but didn’t look up from her work. “For all you’ve done to me I will still help you if I can Ecks. I don’t want war between the people of this world. If, once you understand what you have done, you find you do need my help, come and find me. I will see what I can do to assist you.” Ecks glanced up as Slash walked away from her, leaving a trail of congealing pink footsteps behind her. Slash was trying not to cry. She knew from experience that if she did a lot of blood would be flowing from her eyes. “Magnificent.” Commented a cool voice as she entered the caves beyond the Skylight Cavern. She glanced up to see Raquel leaning against the side of the cave, watching her. “I honestly did not expect such passion.” Slash choked back a sob and focused on calming herself down so she could speak. Raquel held out a handkerchief to her before taking her hand and leading her away. Slash following willingly, her mind a complete muddle on what to do now. Raquel didn’t say anything, just kept walking and making sure Slash didn’t blunder into anything or anyone. After what felt like ages, Slash finally felt herself calm down. She removed the handkerchief to find it was almost sodden with blood and gore. “Oh no. I’ve ruined it.” Slash exclaimed. “Not so.” Raquel assured her. “I happen to know some very fine dry cleaners down here and besides, blood is hardly an issue in the Underground.” “Thank you.” Slash sniffed. She looked about her and found that the caves looked nothing like any place she had seen so far. “Where are we?” She asked. Bones of rock soared into the celling looking like some kind of ancient forest of stone that had been smoothed over by years of water flowing through them. Light slanted down to the ground from unknown sky lights and occasionally there were small glades of moss and plant life. Alien and strange to Slash’s eyes but beautiful none the less. She gazed around is amazement. “It’s utterly amazing. A cavern of dreams!” Raquel released his grip on her hand as she darted forward to one of the areas of plant life. “How beautiful.” Slash marvelled at the plants from the edge of the sunlit area. She avoided stepping on it as she wasn’t sure if the illness would kill the plants. “I come here when I wish to compose. Most of the others avoid it as we are closer to the surface than they’d like.” Raquel said. “I can see why you come here.” Slash answered. She closed her eyes and breathed slowly. “It’s so peaceful here and the creative sprit runs free. You must produce some wonderful pieces of art here.” Raquel didn’t lift his gaze from her. “Well, we all have our muses.” There was quiet for a time as they stood in the strange stone forest and listened to the water. “What will you do now?” Asked Slash. “Always business with you.” Raquel sighed. “I don’t mean to be. I’m so glad you brought me here and… I’m very thankful that you’ve helped me when you had no need to get caught up in all this. But… I’ve chosen a side. It may make things difficult if I stay with you.” Slash replied. “You said you would remain as neutral as possible.” “I meant it. But do you think they’ll accept that? Will I really have that choice? Or will I be labelled regardless?” Raquel didn’t answer at first. “You are more of a realist than I realised.” “I’ve got to be. I want to be able to survive this.” “You sound like you’ve lived through this before.” Raquel chuckled in an attempt to lighten the mood. Slash didn’t laugh. Her expression changed to a frown. “Have you?” Raquel asked. Slash looked away from him back into the caves. “Yes. Sometime ago and a long way from here.” “What happened?” “I… Was once a carer for another group of creatures. While that world survives it is dying in many ways. During my time there a new land was discovered and it was under attack. We were asked to choose a side and fight. My partners and I decided to take up arms in the name of a cause we felt was right. But… We found out that it wasn’t as simple as we thought. Both sides had good reasons for what they were doing. The fight was over a power source which could change the land around it for the better. There was never and drought, famine or sickness. The price of such a gift however meant that if it was ever removed the people would become monsters and the land toxic. We found this out too late. The damage was done.” “Is that why that place is dying?” “No. There are other reasons for that and it would take a long time to explain them. For now, let’s just say that I have seen such conflicts before and the reasons for them are rarely black and white. I don’t want to see the same happen here.” She turned back to Raquel. “Now why are you getting involved?” Raquel looked surprised. “I thought I explained why back at the house.” “I know. But I still do not see you as the type to get involved in this sort of thing. You strike me as the sort who would treasure his peace and independence. Why are you going out of your way for this?” “Because I am the sort who treasures their peace and independence. If this conflict of ideals becomes violent then I stand to lose that. I would be dragged into such a war sooner or later. While I do not have first-hand experience as you do I do remember when the Underground was founded and the after affects. I do not wish to see such a fight. With the possible exception of the opportunity to take a fist or two to the SAI. They really get on my nerves with their constant paranoia.” Slash did laugh at that. “Let us hope they do not get the chance to try their own personal brand of security and peace keeping on this situation.” Slash sighed once she had stopped chuckling. “We should go and speak to Skitters. Which way back?” Raquel held out his hand and Slash took it before they both made their way back to the road that led to The Surface
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| #27 :: May 21st, 2012 @ 2:40 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX Oh, once again,I had a lot of fun reading this. Love how you are tying in the different NPCs, too.
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| #28 :: May 21st, 2012 @ 6:33 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker 2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX *all my pets and I are huddled around a table, reading this* I..*cough* we.. want more Does that sound too greedy? Sorry.. I am really enjoying your spin on the event(s) here. Will you be including the other site events too?
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| #29 :: May 21st, 2012 @ 7:38 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
More. I want more! Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #30 :: May 23rd, 2012 @ 6:31 AM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @Eva @likepavlovsdogs 0_o Er, okay. I've been writing ahead in a bid to finish this so I can put it up on a regular basis. Here's another two chapters. This should be eaiser to find where you are in the story. I have wondered about doing this for other site events but it depends how fast they come. As you might have noticed I'm not the fastest writer around. BTW, did anyone guess which conflict I'm refuring to in the last chapter? The clue is that I came here from Neopets. I have been wondering about doing an original story and putting it online as a downloadable book. What do you guys think? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Skitters took the news well but it was clear that he was seriously concerned. He scribbled a note and passed it to Slash. “This is getting serious. I cannot believe Ecks would do something this dangerous! We must do something before the SAI get involved. I would hate for them to try and police the Underground, that is about the worst thing they could do right about now.” “Is there anything we can do about it? The SAI isn’t known for their understanding and peaceful nature.” Slash replied. Skitters thought for a moment before picking up another piece of paper. “I will do what I can. If necessary I will go to Sebastian and ask him to hold them at bay. He knows, as do I, that we cannot have a repeat of last year. The searches made by the SAI left political relationships in tatters. They haven’t healed yet even with a full year of peace and an apology from the SAI.” “You can say that again.” Raquel muttered as Slash finished the note. Skitters tilted his head to one side as he studied him. “ME KNOW YOU. YOU UNDERGROUNDER. WHY HERE?” “I am honoured to be recognised.” Raquel replied with a bow. “But I have no wish for open violence between the Surface and the Underground. Something must be done now while we still have time to repair the damage.” Skitters nodded and scribbled another note. “Agreed. I will do some investigating of my own. While I am not exactly Ecks’ favourite she will talk to me on this. I doubt it will do much good but I will try and get her to stop. In the mean time you need to go and rest. I fear that whatever happens next will be the beginning of something much worse.” “We’ll be ready. Good luck.” Slash replied. Skitters nodded and handed over one more note. “Thank you both for supporting me and sticking by me. I owe you both a great deal. I’m sorry to say that not everyone I placed my trust in was so loyal.” Slash glanced at Skitters to see that his face had become drawn and unhappy. She gave him a sympathetic look and ignored her surprise that she’d been able to recognise what it was he was feeling from his expression. Her transformation had been more rapid than she expected. “Be careful.” The note continued. “We now have more opposition than before Slash and Raquel stood quietly together in Shadow Glen after leaving Skitters. The sun was already beginning to set. “So what now?” Raquel asked. “Now I need to go home. I can’t just leave everyone and I want to know what they’ve discovered while I’ve been gone. How about you?” Raquel didn’t reply at first. He turned his gaze on the world around him and the sun set. Slash felt content to wait and just admired the colours and the sheer joy of being out in the open air again. Although she noticed that her skin was starting to feel dry and uncomfortable once more. “I had forgotten how wonderful the sky can be.” Raquel commented as the sun turned the clouds to flaming orange and red and the sky every shade from yellow to pink and then a deep indigo on the edge of black. “Many do. We’re all so busy trying to get so much done that we just don’t stop to see what’s in front of us. I try to stop and look at the sky. It gives such joy and inspiration the rest of the world does.” Slash agreed. “How do you feel?” Raquel asked. Slash glanced at him in surprise. “Fine. Why?” “Your skin doesn’t hurt?” Raquel continued. “Well… It feels slightly dry and a touch uncomfortable but otherwise there’s no problem.” “Did it feel like that when you first came down with this illness?” “Yes…” Slash recalled the feeling getting worse as she had become sicker. “How do you know that?” “I recalled a couple of acquaintances who suffered from their skin during the early phases of their transformations. Each of them said that they felt better in the Underground. It was Rachelle who made the breakthrough. She noticed that the skin tended to rot slower in the damp of the Underground. It’s the air down there. One of the main reasons we keep things so damp is because it’s better for our skin than the dry airy conditions up here.” Slash stared at him aghast. “You mean I’ll go through all that pain again?!” The very thought made her want to cry. “If you stay up here then the odds are that you will.” Slash placed her head in her hands. “If I- Staying in the Underground is the most logical thing to do but- No. I can’t. I don’t have anywhere to stay!” She tried to take it all in and understand what she needed to do. Raquel coughed. “I have a spare room and I did agree to help you.” Slash lifted her head to gazed at him. “Really? But, I couldn’t. You’ve been so kind and I don’t want to inconvenience you.” Raquel sighed in exasperation. “Slash you are without a doubt a very independent young woman. I can understand your desire to see this through without putting anyone else in the line of fire but for the love of Shinwa will you let me help you?! It’s clear that something must be done before you lose your mind and more violence breaks out. It will be a pleasure to have you stay with me and you are more than welcome to bring along one of your friends if you wish. But just stop arguing and let others help you.” Slash gazed at Raquel for a few minutes without speaking. “Alright. If you’re-” Raquel’s expression darkened. “Ahem. What I mean is: Thank you. I accept your offer. But you will need to get used to this side of me. I do tend to second guess myself.” Slash said as she offered him her hand. Raquel took it and gripped it for a moment. “For my part, you will need to learn to put up with my dry humour and temper. I do tend to yell when I get upset.” He replied. “As does Kaori. Let’s stop off at my place and then we’ll head back. I’ll need an overnight bag and a few things.” Slash mused as they set off into the gathering dusk. Last Edit by:
SlashSlashX 5/23/12 - 6:34:11 am
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| #31 :: May 23rd, 2012 @ 12:18 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Oh yay! I was wondering if you were alluding to NEO in the last segment. My favorite part of this one is the part about the sun and looking at the sky. Love that! I totally do that. It is so relaxing. I think it'd be neat to put a story online. Would you do PDF files?
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| #32 :: May 23rd, 2012 @ 6:06 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker 2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX I also catch myself daydreaming/chilling just looking up at the sky. Nature is so pretty sometimes Awww, Raquel <3 Totally enjoying the updates so far. I would be interested in catching up your writings in some sort of online based book. Like Springjoy asked, would you be able to release them in PDF files? It does seem the easiest?
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| #33 :: May 23rd, 2012 @ 7:22 PM | |
| Habeebi is a Time Lord 1,392 Posts 952 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Ohn Slash that was outstanding! Formerly known as Likepavlovsdogs |
| #34 :: May 28th, 2012 @ 1:45 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @Eva @likepavlovsdogs
I was thinking of doing a book for Kindle download. You get a small percent of the sale that way. I'll still write things about Subeta and the like but I have been wondering about trying to market my own original idea. I have an assesment this week but that's why I write ahead! With a bit of luck I'll have the next update on Friday or Saturday at the latest. I think I'll add chapters with each post to make things easier. If you like, at the end of the story, I can e-mail you each a copy of this. Let me know. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kaori and the others were delighted to see Slash again, though they would need a bath a piece after the warm welcome they gave her. They were a little wary of Racquel; however Sophia solved the problem by jumping into his arms with a bark of welcome. The little Kora saw no evil in anything and Slash bringing Racquel home merely confirmed her desire to like him. While she and the others were fussing around him Slash went up to her room to pack and have a word with Kaori. Eve followed them upstairs. As soon as they were in Slash’s room she began to talk while grabbing a bag. “I’m sorry, but I can’t stay here. I have to go back.” “What? Why?” Kaori demanded. She reared up and placed her front hooves on Slash’s bag, preventing her from packing for a few moments. “Slash, the investigation can wait. Take it easy for a while. Things won’t go to pieces without you, you’re still sick remember? So stay here and rest.” “Unfortunately, I need to return to the Underground to do that.” “Why?” “It’s my skin. The air in the Underground doesn’t irritate it as much as the air up here. If I want to be able to sleep and retain my sanity I have to go back.” “I suspected as much.” Eve sighed. “I know it to be damper down there so it would help with an itchy skin. Besides, it took us nearly three tries to wake you up when we called. You won’t recover unless you sleep and down there seems to be the only choice.” “But where are you resting?” Kaori demanded. “Racquel has offered me a room until we discover a cure.” “You’re staying with a guy you’ve barely known for a week?! Is that wise do you think?” Slash opened her mouth to reply but Kaori cut her off. “That was rhetorical. What do you know about this person? Can you trust him?” “I know he writes poetry and that he’s intelligent. He’s also very lonely and makes decisions quickly without thinking them through. I don’t believe him to be someone I can’t trust but I will take my time in how far I do trust him.” “Knowing you that’s the best we’ll get.” Kaori sighed with a shake of her head. “So what’s new in the Underground?” “A number of those investigating have sided with Ecks and she’s getting ready to do something big. Things are really uptight down there. Skitters is trying to decide what to do.” Slash’s phone beeped. “And I have a message from Fantine.” “What does she want?” Kaori pulled out a few items from Slash’s wardrobe and put them inside the bag while Slash skimmed the message. “She wants to meet up with me as she has something important to say.” “Huh. What’s so important that she couldn’t tell you in the message?” “Given that she is where this mess started, I would not ignore her summons.” Eve replied from her place next to the door. “I’ll go while I’m taking my things down to Raquel’s place.” “Will you rest for the day afterwards?” Kaori asked. “Yes. Right now I feel too tired to do much else except eat and get some sleep.” “Good. In that case here’s a little on what’s going on top side. SAI is getting dangerously paranoid over the whole thing. Sebastian may or may not be infected which hasn’t helped.” Slash stared at her in horror. “The Chancellor?! He’s succumbed to this?!?” “Name someone who hasn’t!” Kaori argued. “It’s getting more and more frightening. Even those who lived through the first infection are feeling terrified. Top Side is no longer safe and soon the Underground won’t be either. “ “I’ll drop by Skitters on my way back and talk with him. I’m sure he knows but right now we really do need some direction. In the meantime, try to keep out of the way of the SAI and don’t go following up leads unless you really think it worth the risk.” “Don’t we always?” Kaori asked with an apparently innocent look. Slash gazed back with a look of her own that spoke volumes on the subject. “Take my bag downstairs please. I’ll finish up my other bag and be down in a few moments. I’ll leave the housekeeping budget with Black Widow.” Kaori grumbled but did as she was asked. Once she was out of the room, Slash turned to Eve. “What do you think?” Eve cocked her head and gazed at Slash for a few moments before replying. “There is no way to win. However this turns out it will hurt all of us in many different ways. As far I know, this kind of act is one taken by someone who seeks power at any price. Mainly because they are rarely the ones who will pay for such a thing. Who that someone may be is something I doubt we’ll know.” Slash nodded. “I’ll leave you enough to live on without me and to get away should things go bad. I know Red can take care of himself but I worry about the others. Can you keep an eye on things? You have more experience than any of them in the world.” Eve gave her that strange smile she sometimes wore which suggested she knew a great deal about what was going on than most of the world but had no intention of sharing what she knew. “You know you can trust me Slash. But I agree with Kaori on Racquel. Be careful around him.” “Do you think he can’t be trusted?” Slash asked. “I think he can be trusted to act like a gentleman. But a gentleman doesn’t always make the right choices.” Eve got up and left after that and Slash knew her well enough to realise that their conversation would not continue no matter how hard she tried for a better answer. Half an hour later Slash left with Racquel to return to the Underground, uncertain of when or if she would return. “Why are we going into town?” Racquel asked for the eleventh time. Slash stifled her sigh. It was clear that Racquel was nervous having lived in the Underground since the first Pandemic. The main shops were crawling with people and his experience of Top Side hospitality had not been a positive one. “I need to talk to Fantine.” “Why?” “She said there was something important she needed to tell me. Given that the infection started at the Bakery, I don’t think we can ignore anything Fantine might have to say.” Racquel nodded but remained uncertain as they made their way into the Main Square. He stopped as soon as he could see the people there clearly. “They’re all-” Racquel turned to ensure he hadn’t lost sight of Slash in the crowd. Nearly everyone here was showing some signs of the Bakers Strain. The square was a mess of pink jelly with most doors covered in it. He could see Emma talking to a few customers and showing an uncomfortable pulsing mass on one side of her face. Slash waited while he took it all in. “They’re all infected. As I said, I haven’t seen anyone who hasn’t been affected in a very long time.” “I never thought…” He began, unable to believe what it was he was seeing. Slash glanced round the square. Her skin was beginning to feel worse and if she wanted to sleep tonight she had to get back to the Underground. “Why don’t you wait here and have a look at the shops. I’m sure much has changed since you were last here. I’ll go chat to Fantine and then we can maybe grab something for dinner before heading back. Sound like a plan?” Racquel recovered from his surprise. “Yes. Er, an excellent notion.” He agreed and turned to settle himself and Slash’s bag on a bench to gaze around the mass of infected people. Slash turned towards the Bakery. The shop had lost the white sheen to its walls and now had a faint pink shine to it. The door especially seemed to have been redecorated in slime pink. Slash growled with anger at Ecks. How could she have been so uncaring as to do this? Shaking her head she pushed the door open and entered the Bakery. There was a strong smell of baking bread as always but it was mixed with a meaty smell that was not that common in the Bakery. There were also a fair number of people about eating the same cupcakes Slash had tried as well as newer treats. Fantine herself was at the counter serving people. The transformation was pretty much complete for her. Green eyes, pulsing pink skin and her hair in ruins. Slash wondered up to the counter trying to see if anything seemed amiss. Fantine turned from her latest customer and spotted Slash. “You got my message!” She began beaming with pleasure. “Come into the back for a moment.” She told her as she grasped Slash’s hand and pulled her into the kitchen. As soon as the door had closed Fantine turned to face Slash while practically bouncing with joy. “I cannot thank you enough! You’ve done so much for me! But this is the best yet! Thank you so much!” Slash smiled. “I’m glad to hear my efforts have helped. I told you that the new cakes would catch on if you gave them a chance.” “Yes you did! And thanks to you sending some of them to Skitters, half the Underground is mad for them! I can barely keep them on the shelves!” “You see?!” Slash beamed. “All you needed was a little time to get it to work out. The Bakery is back on top. Why I bet you’ll be the number one supplier for Top Side and the Underground before the Pandemic Celebrations are done.” “Well, maybe not Top Side.” Fantine replied. Slash’s expression faded a little. “Why? Is there a problem?” “Oh no! In fact things couldn’t be better and I wanted you to be the first to know. I’ve bought a shop in the Underground and I’m going to move there. This is it. I’m ready to join the undead community and Skitters.” Slash tried not to let the horror show on her face. “I’m so glad for you Fantine, I really am. But don’t you think you’re moving a bit fast? Are you really and truly sure this is how you want things to be?” “Positive.” Fantine replied firmly. Slash thought briefly about talking her out of it but Fantine had a determined look about her. Besides, it was her choice and this was something she had been thinking about for some time. Slash smiled again. “Funnily enough, I’m heading to the Underground for a little while too.” “Really?” “Yes. If you need any help moving in, please do let me know.” “Oh thank you so much for the offer but I’ve got so much help already. Why are you going down there? It doesn’t seem like your kind of place.” Fantine asked. “I’m trying to find a cure for the virus. It’s been giving me skin trouble so I thought I’d go and check out where it came from in a bid to improve things.” “Oh Slash,” Fantine suddenly look crestfallen. “This is my fault isn’t it? I’m so sorry.” “I’m fine! Don’t worry about a thing!” Slash lied. “It’s just a twinge here and there. Besides, whoever did this would have found some other way to spread this virus. You have nothing to blame yourself for.” Fantine gave her a smile but still looked subdued. “Do you know who it is who began all of this? I never learnt the names of the ones who gave me this. That was really stupid of me wasn’t it?” “Erm, I think we’ve worked out who did this but its proving it that’s the tricky part. As for the other thing… Well, I have to admit that you’ve made wiser choices before this.” Slash replied carefully. Fantine sniffed and gave Slash a hug. “I’m really sorry. Forgive me?” Slash sighed and hugged her back, hard. “There’s nothing for you to feel guilty about. You made a poor choice but the evil lies in those who thought this would be a good idea. I know you want to go and be with Skitters and I think you’ve very brave for following your heart like this. But promise me one thing: If you run into those creeps who offered you this stuff again and they want more from you, RUN! Go to Skitters, go to one of your friends, your family and call the SAI. Don’t let them do anything more than this. You have suffered more than enough. But above all, don’t be afraid to come looking for help with whatever you’re doing. If things get too tough come back home, wherever that may be.” Fantine pulled back and nodded. “I’ll be careful, I promise. I’ll see you down there?” “Oh you will.” Slash assured her as they made their way back to the shop and towards the door. “Where are you staying in the Underground?” Fantine wondered as they got to the door. “With the gentleman over there.” Slash replied as she pointed out Racquel. Fantine took in Racquel’s carefully groomed appearance, nearly tailored suit and perfectly tied cravat. “I knew I wasn’t the only one to find a good guy among the Underground!” She exclaimed. “What?! NO! We are most certainly NOT!” Slash snapped back, drawing a few surprised looks from customers. Fantine held up her hands in a pacifying action. “Okay, okay. Still, I must admit he’s something of a looker!” Slash gazed back at Racquel. “Honestly? I hadn’t noticed. There hasn’t been a lot of spare time for such things and we’ve haven’t known each other that long. We’re friends at best right now.” “If you say so.” Fantine replied cheerfully. “But you have to promise me to keep me updated. I won’t forgive you if you don’t!” Inwardly Slash shuddered at the thought as she wasn’t comfortable with thinking about Racquel that way. She admitted that they were moving faster than she liked but right now she needed his help with the investigations. “Fine. But stay out of trouble.” She answered. “No problem. Thanks for stopping by. See you soon?” Fantine asked as Slash stepped out of the shop. “Of course. Take care!” Slash waved as she walked away to let Fantine get back to her customers. As she wondered back she mulled over Fantine’s comments. She really hoped that this wouldn’t be the start of everyone saying she and Racquel were dating! For goodness sake she’d only known him a few days! And yet she was moving in with him for the foreseeable future. Eve’s words came back to her. Racquel was a gentleman but… Gentlemen were not always known for good judgement. Racquel stood up as she approached. “What did Fantine want?” “She wanted to thank me for all my hard work in helping her out and to tell me that she’s moving to the Underground to sell her new pastries.” Racquel didn’t react for a few moments. “I’d like to believe that she is trying to be funny but I know that can’t be true. She doesn’t see evil in the world does she?” Slash shook her head. “No. Fantine sees everyone and everything in the world with joy and acceptance. This is her greatest gift and biggest flaw.” Racquel sighed. “This is getting more complex, we can’t watch Fantine and investigate.” “I think we should stop by Skitters on the way back and let him know what’s going on. He’ll need to get a few people together if he’s going to keep Fantine out of trouble.” “Agreed.” Racquel nodded. Slash picked up one of her bags but before she could get the other Racquel picked it up. It was the heavier one too. “You don’t have to do that. I can carry them. Besides, I always pack too much stuff. You shouldn’t risk your back because of that.” Slash protested. Racquel looked annoyed. “I thought we discussed this?” “We did! But- Well, I just wanted-” Slash struggled to find a polite way of arguing while Racquel looked more and more angry. “Oh, never mind!” Slash snapped as she moved off. Racquel hurried after her. “Does the bag matter that much?” He asked as he caught up with her. “No. You matter far more. That was my only point.” “I’m glad you think so but you shouldn’t reject an offer to help. You mentioned before that you enjoy helping people so why should it be different for others?” Slash walked on while she considered this. Racquel waited until they were out of the Main Shops and heading for Shadow Glen before he spoke again. “What happened in the shop? Fantine said something more than that she was just moving, didn’t she?” Slash stopped so suddenly Racquel had to take two paces to get back to her. She was gazing at the ground with a furious expression on her face. “Fantine thinks you and I are more than just acquaintances. In fact she’s skipped friends and moved straight on to congratulating me for finding a boyfriend.” Slash turned her gaze to Racquel. “I think she may the sign of things to come. It bothers me that this is her reaction to this.” “Why?” Racquel answered. Slash wasn’t sure how to read that answer so she went with her current thoughts. “Because I don’t know you that well. I’m not in the mood or position for a relationship and neither are you. You made that clear when I met you for the first time and to crown it all we haven’t said anything about what our relationship IS. I don’t want people trying to force us together just because it’s what they think is going on.” “People are like that though. They enjoy seeing others have drama and adventure in their lives since it’s easier to watch than to go through it yourself.” Racquel reasoned. “Does it bother you?” Slash answered. “No. I don’t really care for what people think or say about me. But I am annoyed that you’re bothered by it. You are perfectly correct that we should not give gossip the chance to push us into something we do not want or need. So let’s go see Skitters before heading off for some dinner while we completely ignore the chatter. Sound like a plan?” Slash let out a sigh as her expression relaxed. “Yes. It does. Thank you.”
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| #35 :: May 28th, 2012 @ 3:25 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Hey, I say go for it! Even if you don't sell a lot, I bet once you've edited and formatted these into a book more subetans might find it fun to read them. It can't hurt to give it a try, I think!Also, I loved this because this is always how I have thought of Fantine: "Fantine sees everyone and everything in the world with joy and acceptance. This is her greatest gift and biggest flaw.” Thanks for the update. Still loving the story!
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| #36 :: June 23rd, 2012 @ 2:34 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @likepavlovsdogs @Eva
Next chapter! Sorry for the wait! --------------------------------------------------------------- Skitters was surprised to see them again so soon and looked troubled when her heard Fantine’s plans. ‘I cannot stop her.’ His note read. ‘Fantine must make her own decisions in these matters. I can’t deny that this news makes me happy though. In fact, I’m looking forward to having her so close.’ “Understandable but you must keep watch on her. With things so heated who’s to say that some of Ecks’ supporters might try to harm her as a way of getting to you?” Raquel pointed out. Skitters nodded. “ME BE CAREFUL. HAVE NEWS.” “Really? What about?” Slash asked. Skitters passed her another note which she read out loud. “I still have a few friends who wish to help. They’ve been working undercover to try and work out what Ecks is up to. At the rally she asked a number of… newcomers…” The word had obviously caused Skitters some pain. “To go fishing for Splitfish.” Slash paused. “What are Splitfish?” “They are what the name suggests. While they are connected at the head the body splits into two separate fish. Because this is a somewhat awkward way to exist the Splitfish has a very high ability to heal. Something which makes it sought after as a medicine for most of the Underground.” Raquel explained. Skitters nodded and pointed at the rest of his message. Slash continued reading. “The Splitfish may contain the source of the plague or the cure. I’m not sure which but I need you to go and gather some. The guy who tends the fishing hole will not be impressed if you take too many though so be careful.” Slash felt puzzled once she’d finished reading. “Skitters, this doesn’t sound like Ecks. She wouldn’t waist her time on something like this. The plague is already here and the best doctors on the surface are already working on the cure.” “DOCTOR LOCKHEART SELLING CURE NOW.” Skitters put in. Slash grimaced. “The best doctors that got their qualifications at a university as opposed to a three month evening class. They’ll have a cure soon and it won’t be from the Splitfish as we’ve never heard of them until now. There doesn’t seem to be anything to gain from this. This feels like a distraction. “ Skitters thought about it for a moment before scribbling a note in reply. “Agreed. But right now this is our only clue. See what’s new at the fishing hole and I’ll let you know if I discover anything. “ Slash nodded. “I’m still going to see what I can find out in the Underground. The more eyes and ears around this place the better And I think I know just who to ask about this fishing idea.” Kaori gazed at the apparently innocent faces in front of her and resisted her urge to scream. “Right.” She began. “Which of you is going to tell me why you were caught at the SAI, the Underground and the Rathskeller Inn?!” Sophia edged forward. “We just wanted to help. We were going to look for clues. You said Slash can’t come home until this is solves and we thought we could help her.” “By going to the Underground?!” Kaori demanded. “I had Fireson with me.” Sophia replied, pointing out the rather formidable looking BloodRed Magnus. Fireson just gazed at Kaori with an expression that to an outsider looked like he was daring her to take him on. Kaori wasn’t fooled. Fireson might look like a nightmare but he had been abandoned when very young and was quite weak as far as fighting went. Kaori only had to step on him to keep him out of trouble. However he did help out by convincing most not to mess with them. Unfortunately, his looks wouldn’t so much keep zombies away as attract them. “And you?” Kaori turned to Summer, Widow and Dembi. “Summer asked me to take her to the inn when Dembi said he was too scared to go there.” Widow explained. “I told you I’d go to both when you said you were taking Summer! I just didn’t want her anywhere near that place!” Dembi protested. The young Malticorn had ended up following Delta home from the Adoption Centre and had a shy personality due to his early life. He wasn’t that hard to talk round to things like this as he was so desperate to belong in the family. Kaori rolled her eyes in exasperation. “I know you were only trying to help but you can’t do that! You’ll get into trouble and goodness only knows what might happen to you then!” “But we want to help. How can we help Slash come home?” Sophia asked on the brink of tears. “Oh. Now don’t cry! I’m sure we can think of something.” Kaori was saved from further punishment by the sound of a phone. “I’ll be right back. Now don’t move!” She ordered as she dashed from the room. “Hello?” She asked as she snatched up the phone. “Kaori! How are you dear?” Kaori almost melted with relief at the sound of Slash’s voice. “Oh thank Shinwa! Slash, you have GOT to come home! Sophia and Summer talked Widow and Dembi into helping them explore the worst areas of Subeta for clues to help you out! The only reason they didn’t talk Red, Delta or Eve into it was thanks to them being out! Eloren, Delta and I can’t search for info while keeping them in check at the same time!” “It sounds like you’re having trouble too. Well, I have good news for you.” Slash replied. “What’s that?” “Skitters needs some volunteers to go get him something called Splitfish. He needs quite a lot of them too. Know anyone whose willing to sit by a well-lit, well attended fishing hole for hours in hopes of catching something to help us?” There was a pause. “Kaori?” Slash prompted. “Slash, I will never say this again, but I love you so much.” Kaori answered. “I love you too Kaori. Now, go and tell Delta and Widow to pack a picnic.” After a few more details, Slash finished her call and looked again at her new surroundings. Raquel had given her his spare room and Slash was content with it. Her skin was already feeling better in the dank and cool environment. But just looking out the window meant she could see the ever growing shanty town. More and more were coming down from the Surface to hide as the strain changed them. Things were getting desperate. “Slash? Dinner’s ready if you have finished your call.” Raquel called from the main area of the house. Slash got up and moved through to dinner. Slash got up refreshed and ready the next day. She grabbed a bag and got ready to leave as soon as breakfast was over. She stepped out of her room to find Raquel sitting in his chair reading the paper. “Good morning!” Slash greeted cheerfully. “Hello. Not much good about I’m afraid.” Raquel replied. He scowled at his paper. “News not good?” “No. Ecks really has everything in a tiss after that rally of hers. Honestly! You’d think she was trying to get an all-out revolution going!” “That isn’t good. Do you want to join me today?” “I can’t. I have a few errands to run. I probably won’t be back when you return. I’ve left some breakfast for you and there’s some cold cuts in the fridge should you want something to snack on.” Slash sat down and poured herself a drink. “Thank you. Do you want me to pick up anything? It doesn’t make any sense for you to make a journey when I’m already there.” Slash offered. “Thank you but no. It’s for things like my dry cleaning. Good luck in your investigations though.” Half an hour later, Slash left Raquel’s house and began her search for information. Her first stop was to pick up Red. He was waiting for her at the edge of the Underground city. “Hello Red. Anything interesting going on?” Slash asked. “There’s always something interesting going on. More specifically, Raquel had a visitor last night.” “Do you know who?” Red shook his head. “It might have been a neighbour. I’ll keep an ear out. For now we need to go and meet up with the others. They’re starting down here today and I need to guide them to the fishing pool.” Slash said as she wondered about the visitor. The cluster of pets lead by Delta was pretty easy to find. The Underground didn’t get many visitors who looked and acted like a pack of children out on a school trip. Leading them to the fishing pool took some time as all of them wanted to go site seeing but once there and settled Slash and Red were able to slip away. Delta was left in charge with instructions on what to watch out for. Kaori might be the battle pet but Delta would make most at least reconsider their attack. Once away from the fishing hole, Slash bought Red some breakfast and waited until he’d eaten it before they began their search. There wasn’t an awful lot to discover. Ecks and her gang seemed to be acting out in the open but Slash didn’t believe it. “She’s running interference.” She told Red at the end of the day. “There’s something more at stake here.” “How would you know?” Red sniped. “Red. Does Ecks strike you as the sort who would bother with fish?” Red shook his head. “No. She’s after power and a great deal of it at that. Her intentions may be pure but power does have a delightful way of…” “Corrupting?” Slash suggested. “Oh no. Only those who have no direction get corrupted. But for those who are committed to their goals. Who never doubt their ideals and seek the power to achieve them, power adds a delicious intensity.” Slash gazed at Red who seemed to be lost in the vision of whatever it was he was seeing in his mind. “Why do I always feel that you know of what you speak?” She asked quietly. “Why Slash. A gentleman doesn’t kiss and tell.” Red replied smoothly. The days passed and a routine established itself. Slash would go out to look and listen to the Underground and to try and discover what Ecks was up to. Sometimes Raquel went with her, sometimes Red or even Kaori. She would meet up with the pets at the Fishing pool and discovered that she had become the proud owner of an ever expanding zoo of fish. Sophia and Summer couldn’t bear the thought of all of the fish being thrown into a freezer. “We’re taking so many! What if we fish them all out? There should be a stable population somewhere just in case!” Summer had pleaded. Slash was so surprised that Summer had actually understood Slash’s books on biodiversity and environment that she’d agreed to keeping them without thinking. She did take the ones Skitters’ needed to his shop and talked about what they had discovered. Raquel had been right about Fantine. A number of Ecks supporter were found to be watching her and her assistant. Apparently they were waiting for an opportunity to take her in for questioning but had been put off by not only those loyal to Skitters but by some of their own team mates. Fantine hadn’t lost her popularity or her skill with cooking and it had so far protected her. But there were signs that this wouldn’t be enough. Then came the day Slash brought Skitters the last of the Splitfish. He was waiting for her and looked very worried. “HAVE WORD FROM FRIENDS WATCHING ECKS.” He began. “That’s bad. Any idea what she’s up to now?” Skitters passed her a note. “Ecks is gathering allies?” Slash exclaimed. Skitters nodded and gestured at the note again. “You want me to try and gather some support of our own? Do you really think Matlal is a good choice?” Skitters sighed and produced a second note. “No.” Slash read. “I don’t. But right now we need any support we can get. Before the Sea Witch took over that area worshiped the god of the dead. Matlal may want to offer up some assistance to us for old times’ sake.” “He’ll tell the Sea Witch Skitters. Regardless of what he does she’ll know. Can we afford that?” Slash worried. Skitters glanced round before leaning close and lowering his voice. “Ecks supporters seen at Maleria. Me think they try to get her to join them.” Despite the dire news Skitters couldn’t help but be impressed by Slash’s reaction. He’d never seen a zombie pale before. “That’s… incredibly bad. I’ll get going to Matlal and see what I can do.” “GOOD LUCK!” Skitters called as she left his shop. Slash’s thoughts were in turmoil as she tried to understand what had made Ecks so desperate that she’d bother the dark goddess. Just because it was her followers she was sending, it didn’t mean she’d get away scott free! “Slash!” Raquel called as he dashed up. “I’ve been looking for you! Bad news.” He panted. “Ecks has gone to Maleria for help?” Slash offered. “NO. Nothing so terrible, fortunately. Sagittarius has sided with Ecks and her supporters have moved on to Mori.” “Creepy, arrogant, self-serving weasel.” Slash growled. “It’s not a total surprise that he sided with Ecks. She’ll probably let him turn a bigger profit than Skitters would. She cares less about how he’ll get it.” “You do his quests.” Raquel pointed out. “Yes. He gives out a fair amount if you know what to look out for but he doesn’t like me for it. Besides, he’s short changed me before. I need to head for Matlal’s.” “Then I’ll come along. This is something you may need assistance for.” The two of them set off.
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| #37 :: June 24th, 2012 @ 9:43 PM | |
| Eva is a Skilled Hooker 2,144 Posts 744 Achievements |
*begs for more* I wannnnnnnnaaaaa read more now  I like the new passage Really left it off at a part that allows the reader to want to know what happens next.
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| #38 :: July 3rd, 2012 @ 4:44 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@Eva @springjoy @likepavlovsdogs
Next chapter. It's kind of short and doesn't really flow as well as I'd like but I'm not sure what I could do to adjust it. The next one will be a bit longer as I made a departure from the Plot script for something. I won't spoil it now though. Anyway! Here's the next part: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raquel and Slash hated the jungle. Their current condition meant that more insects than normal found them irresistible. While Slash kept having to wipe away the sludge that had caught flies by the thousands, Raquel found the humidity attacked his outfit. “I thought I was over this when I stopped sweating!” He complained. “There’s Matlal and Baron. I’ll try and keep this quick.” Slash soothed as they reached the clearing. Skulls and huge carved heads with glowing eyes dotted the area. They seemed to be keeping the insects out. Grateful for the peace this brought Slash moved over to Matlal. “Excuse me.” She began. The witchdoctor snarled something and returned to what he was doing. Slash looked around and noticed a set of tables with items strewn across them. Glancing back at Matlal she could see him putting them together before throwing them into a large pot. After watching him for a few minutes she had a pretty good idea on what it was she had to do and turned to help out. Raquel turned to one of the other tables and between the three of them they had all the ingredients prepared and in the pot in record time. The Baron took an interest in Raquel’s carefully tided neck cloth much to his displeasure while Matlal focused on Slash. “THANK YOU STRANGER. MATLAL HAD MUCH WORK. NOW ALL BETTER.” “No problem. Um, we were wondering if you’d heard about the Underground?” Matlal stuck his tongue out. “MATLAL NOT DEAF! ME KNOW ABOUT UNDERGROUND.” “Well yes but have you heard about the problems going on there?” The witchdoctor sniffed and turned away. “Before the sea, didn’t the dead look after you?” Slash asked. The Baron stopped in his attempts to remove Raquel’s coat and necktie. Matlal looked back at her and said in a quiet voice “What you want?” “We were wondering if you would help us out. There’s a war brewing in Shadowglen. Surely you’ve noticed all the zombies. We want to try and stop this from getting any worse.” Matlal laughed in Slash’s face. “WHY I CARE PIG? MATLAL LIKE ZOMBIES. MATLAL HAVE ZOMBIE MANCHU.” The Baron climbed up onto the witchdoctor’s shoulder where he could get a scratch. “YOU PIGS SQUEAL AND FIGHT YOUR PIG BATTLES. MAYBE YOU ALL DIE AND THE BARON GET VERY FAT FROM EAT YOUR FINGERS?” Slash slapped him. Hard. His mask went flying over to the other side of the clearing and The Baron jumped down from his shoulder to hiss and chitter at her from a safe distance. “I can see we’ve nothing left to discuss.” Slash said quietly. “So sorry to have disturbed you and I do hope our little ‘pig battles’ don’t intrude upon you.” She shoved him hard into one of his tables before storming to the clearing exit. Raquel followed glancing at the witchdoctor with both amazement and pride. The witchdoctor blinked from his seat on the floor with the upturned table behind him. As The Baron dragged his mask back to him and chittered in a soothing fashion Matlal rubbed at the red mark on his face, splattered with pink goo, and muttered “Yeyel’l ao vivi natatl.” “That was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen!” Raquel was saying as Slash marched through the jungle. “He was being a complete cad, do not misunderstand me. But I never thought you’d go so far as to hit him. And a capital hit it was too! Bravo!” “But I shouldn’t have hit him.” Slash replied. “After the way he spoke to you?” Raquel demanded. “I shouldn’t have hit him because he’s right. We fight over the stupidest things and Ecks is counting on that. She’s already divided the Surface and the Underground in less than a month. Skitters may want to hold on to peace but with things the way they are I don’t know if we can manage it.” Raquel paused. He could hear the distress in Slash’s voice and from the slump of her shoulders tell how depressed she was. Felling very daring he closed the gap between them and gently clasped her arms so she could lean against him. “Yes he is right. But nothing worth having comes easy. Why shouldn’t you fight for peace? At least then you can say you did your best.” There was quiet while Slash thought about this. “Besides, you had every right to hit him. With such behaviour I’m amazed you only slapped him! I would have beaten him with that hideous mask her so prizes.” Slash chuckled at that. “He could have been a little more polite about it. I don’t mind his not wanting to get involved but he should have phrased it better.” “Precisely.” Raquel agreed as Slash stepped away. “Come on. Skitters said to call on Quentin, Nori and The Wizard before the day finished. Maybe we’ll have more luck with them.” Slash said as they turned to push their way back through the jungle.
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| #39 :: July 3rd, 2012 @ 5:53 PM | |
| springjoy is a Mirage 1,706 Posts 787 Achievements |
@SlashSlashX
Ah! yay. Very interesting, as usual! I'll read it again and come back if I can think of any adjustments. But the story made me laugh.
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| #40 :: July 4th, 2012 @ 5:14 PM | |
| SlashSlashX is a Sun-Worshipper 509 Posts 639 Achievements |
@springjoy @Eva @likepavlovsdogs I've got a friend comeing over for a few days so I fully expect to be too busy to write much more. So here's the next chapter earlier. You might also be able to see why the last one was so short. It is a departure from the plot but I couldn't believe they got one involved and not the other. Enjoy! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quentin was happy to see them but was horrified when the full situation was explained. “I knew it was bad but I never realised it was that direr!” Quentin exclaimed. “You’re sure that Ecks is behind all this?” “She freely admitted to me that she’d originated the plague. I’m not sure how much more she’s done.” Slash answered. “This awful! What could have made her think- Never mind. Leave it with me and I’ll talk to Dr. Asmodeus. He’s interested in how this illness came about so I’m sure that he’ll help out with the cure. Tell Skitters he can count on me.” Slash thanked Quentin, deeply grateful for some sympathy over what was happening. After promising to return should Quentin discover anything regarding a cure, they left for their next destination. “I do not understand why we did not try Quentin first.” Racquel commented. “Neither am I.” Slash admitted. “I’m still not sure why we went to Matlal at all. The Sea Witch is hardly known for her mercy and Matlal is isolated. Why should he join in our battles? It makes no sense. And what could he offer if he did?” Racquel shook his head. “I just don’t understand it. What are they up to?” “I’m not certain. For now, let’s go and talk to Nori. Mori is a danger and if she’s brought on board there’s a greater chance that Maleria will join Ecks’ side.” Slash offered. Racquel laughed. “Oh come now Slash. Even Ecks knows better than to tangle with the dark one!” Slash let her dead silence speak for itself. Racquel visibly paled which was no mean feat considering how long he had technically been dead for. “Please tell me Ecks has NOT tried to make a deal with the most powerful dark force on Subeta.” Once again, Slash remained silent. “Is she out of her MIND?!” Racquel exclaimed. “You saw how she was at the rally. Do you really need to look further?” Slash replied. Racquel paced rapidly in a circle as he absorbed this information. “She’s really going to try- It can’t be!” He muttered. Slash waited patiently while he did this and wondered about how Nori could help them. Racquel suddenly stopped and turned to her. “Slash.” He began. “Hm?” Slash looked back at him to find Racquel looking very worried and deadly serious. “What’s wrong?” “I- Maybe you should get out of this situation now.” Slash narrowed her eyes in response. “I know you need the cure but they’re so close now I don’t think you need to worry.” “I will not leave Skitters. Nor can I leave Fantine. I will not leave the Underground to this chaos. There is more there for me than you know. I have… friends there that I must protect.” “We can take care of ourselves. I will be fine.” “I didn’t mean just you. I’ve been to the Underground before.” Slash commented quietly. Racquel paused. “But you’ve never contracted a virus before. You said so.” “No. This is my first. And maybe my last.” Racquel frowned. “You snuck in while you were human?” Slash sighed. “The SAI wanted volunteers at the time. I didn’t agree with what they wanted of us so I made a cursory search and then wondered the Underground to enjoy the sites. I… Met a few residents and made some acquaintances. Acquaintances I would like to retain. I can’t leave them now.” “Do you have any idea what would have happened if you had been caught?” Racquel growled. “No. Just like I don’t know what will happen if we don’t try to stop what’s happening now.” Racquel sighed at this answer. “You’re being stubborn again.” “This time, you won’t talk me into being anything else. An event will happen where I will need the help of those I know in the Underground. I may even need your help just as I need it now. I can’t just up and leave everyone to sort this out on their own. I’m too wrapped up to walk away. Even if I did, I doubt Ecks and her followers would let me go. I have to be stubborn if I want to help. What’s your counter point?” She replied, a cold edge to her voice. Racquel looked away into the distance. Slash wondered if she had offended him and began to work out how to apologise without giving him the false hope that he could change her mind. “At the end of this.” Racquel sighed. “I really hope we can continue to be in one another’s company.” Slash cocked her head as she tried to understand his meaning. In the end she realised he was referring to the cure which would heal her but cut her off from the Underground. “We’ll just have to see.” Slash offered and she turned to head for Nori’s home. Nori was more than willing to help although she wasn’t sure how useful she’d be. “Most of my efforts will be focused on keeping Mori from helping Ecks.” She sighed. “I want to help, I really REALLY do. But… I just can’t run the risk of leaving with Mori so close. I’m still not entirely certain on the effects of darkness on my- Our mind.” Nori looked so tired and depressed at her apparent lack of the help she could offer. It was pitiful. “Don’t worry. Any help is greatly appreciated.” Slash soothed. “If Mori cannot join Ecks it will help us greatly.” Put in Racquel. “Focus your efforts where you can and that will be enough.” “If you say so.” Nori sniffed but she did look as if she was feeling better. Slash held her peace until they were away from Nori’s home. “She could have offered us magical aid as well.” She commented once they were far enough away. Racquel nodded. “She could. But as she said, she wasn’t sure if the dark of the Underground would affect her.” “Yes. The wonderful thing about magic, I’ve always thought, is that you can cast it from a distance.” Slash answered. Racquel didn’t answer this. Instead, he said; “I’m going back to the Underground. I need to pick up some things for dinner and I have a meeting to make. Are you coming?” “No. I need to visit the Wizard.” Slash replied. “I’ll return as soon as I’ve seen him.” They parted with Racquel taking the road back to the Underground. Slash, wrapped in a wet sheet from the Underground, set of towards the Sacred Lands but not with the Wizard in mind. After two minutes’ walk, Slash decided that the Sacred lands were the worst place she had been forced to visit as a zombie yet. The insects at Matlal’s had been bad but this! The sand bit much harder and the magical charge of the grains made it feel like her flesh was on fire. She thought briefly about going to the Wizard and getting out of this place. But no. She had to see someone first. Possibly the one person who could offer advice on how to deal with Maleria if she did side with Ecks. Setting what remained of her teeth Slash forced herself towards the Temple that dominated the Sacred Lands; the domain of Shinwa. Once inside the massive structure Slash instantly felt better. It was cooler here and the dust didn’t fly around. In fact it stopped just outside the door. There was nothing in the doorway of course so the light was natural. However there was the sensation as if something was in the doorway blocking the wind. “Magic is a wonderful thing.” Slash mused as she headed deeper into the building. The main corridor had hundreds of paths branching off it leading to different rooms. Sometimes strange flashes would be seen through doorways that no one could pass through unless they knew exactly where they were. It was like seeing a doorway out of the corner of your eye. It was there and you knew it was there but if you turned towards it you’d find it was quite where you thought it was. Some rooms were hidden by a blinding light that seems to flow out of them. Slash focused on the streams of light that guided her deeper into the white and blue creation to the central room where Shinwa sat, that stranger feather in her hand and an expression of calm benevolence. “Greetings.” She began. “Oh. It would seem you need to wait a little while my dear.” She continued once she had seen who it was. “As you can see I still have my bracelet and there is no need for concern.” “There is every need for concern. I have come to ask you advice on the matter.” Slash replied. Shinwa sighed and got up from the plush throne that seemed to be made from square white pillows the size of a normal mattress. “I cannot take sides. I must watch, no matter how badly I feel for those involved.” She turned to go. “Why do you always lose your bracelet? Why does Maleria always hold a piece? And why are you standing back when your sworn duty is to stop her? Ecks is applying for her aid in the Underground situation.” Shinwa paused and turned. “What do you mean?” She asked. Her expression was still calm but she had stopped smiling. “You cannot leave this place. Is this a way of ensuring you don’t need to? Little tributes to keep you comfortable and friends who will always help you out by bringing you the right things. Pete to bring you the best foods in Subeta, Alexander to bring you all the information you could dream of and the Wizard to guard your magical interests…” The whole time Slash was talking Shinwa had been walking back to her. Slash tried to ignore her growing sense of unease, Shinwa was taller than her by a good three feet and Slash wasn’t short by any measure. The light had begun to black out Shinwa’s face as it was directly behind her head but her eyes were still visible and they seemed to glow like the light itself. “Of course Maleria can relish the idea that she’s annoying you. Something small which ultimately keeps her from getting too far with Mori or her other schemes. After all, she needs supplies to work them and you can’t hurt her without your bracelet.” Slash continued, Shinwa was looming over her now. “You are treating on very dangerous ground.” The goddess warned. “Do not think that just because you number among the undead that you are free of pain.” Slash dipped her head. “Believe me. I know very well that this does not stop me hurting.” She turned back to Shinwa. “But you are listening to me now instead of dismissing me.” Shinwa raised an eyebrow. “You thought making me angry was a good idea?” “Oh no. But I wanted to make the point that there is something strange here. You won’t act because you know Maleria won’t join forces with Ecks. What’s in it for her to be shackled to a mere politician? She can do far worse. But she’ll still use Ecks and any followers dumb enough to plead for her help.” Shinwa gazed at Slash for a time. “You worked this out on your own?” She asked. “It’s common sense! I’m sure more than I have come to the same conclusion. Something strange is happening in the Underground. It may be connected to Maleria or Calvin Blackmoon but something has changed with Ecks. Last year she was unhappy about intruders its true but she didn’t suggest turning them into the undead. This year she’s targeting those who she knows will hurt her opposition and amassing a lot of people that she doesn’t seem to care for. She’s telling them to go to Maleria! If there’s one place they are in danger it’s there asking the Dark One for aid! Please. There must be more we can do.” Slash begged. Shinwa remained quiet for a few moments before looking up at the sound of footsteps. Slash wasn’t quite sure what happened next. She was standing next to Shinwa as another Subetan approached and then she was standing in a room that looked as if it had been made from something so pure white it might have been solid light. “Not as many as you would think have reached the same conclusions you have.” Shinwa began from behind Slash. She turned to see the goddess was gazing into the middle distance and her expression had changed again. This time to a grim frown. “You are correct. Maleria will use Ecks any way she can and I am trying to stop her. However the rules that bind her have made it difficult as they apply to me as well. You are correct about the bracelet; I do let it fall into her hands, partly for supplies but also because even a small dose of my magical power weakens her. It is greed that makes her keep an item which is essentially toxic to her so close.” Slash nodded, impressed. “The perfect way to keep her contained.” “For now.” Shinwa focused up Slash. “Listen carefully. You are right. Something is very wrong in the Underground. It could be the beginning of something far bigger and more dangerous. Something that could harm us all. Skitters has spoken to me but as you might have noticed the Sacred Lands are not exactly welcoming to the undead.” “Ecks may try to change that.” Slash pointed out. Shinwa’s whole body glowed with a frightening power. It was only for a moment but Slash recoiled at the sensation. “It will not happen.” Shinwa said as the glow faded. “You- You put on an act in front of the visitors so they don’t realise. Don’t you?” Slash managed. She hadn’t felt this frightened since she’d taken her exam in public speaking. Shinwa smiled. “Of course. What I say may or may not be true but my vanity and frivolous airs are lies. I certainly wouldn’t have won a war with Maleria if that was my entire attitude.” Slash swallowed and nodded. Shinwa became serious again. “Here is what you are going to do. Return to the Underground and keep tabs on what’s happening. Talk to the Wizard before you go and he will give you something to help you. Report to me as soon as you discover anything. For now, all we can do is watch and hope that we can work out what Ecks is up to and who is supporting her in this.” “I can only think that it’s Blackmoon. He has experience with revolution after all.” Slash offered. “And it wouldn’t hurt him to have an ally on the ground.” Shinwa agreed. She waved a hand through the air and pulled out of the resulting sparkles a pot of ordinary looking vanishing cream. She pressed it into Slash’s hands. “Go now and tell NO ONE of this conversation.” Shinwa ordered. The room and the goddess faded and Slash had the uncomfortable feeling of falling. Instinctively she shut her eyes only to realise her feet hadn’t left the ground. Carefully she opened one eye and found herself standing in front of the Wizard’s home. “I have got to learn some of that stuff.” She managed once she’d been able to remove her fingers from the jar and hide it in her cape. She pushed the door open and was surprised to find the Wizard standing in the centre of the room, apparently waiting for her. Every other time Slash had visited he had been pottering around the room humming or chuckling at something with Luna following him with an item in her mouth. Now she sat as if carved from stone beside her master. The Wizard sighed and shook his head. “We cannot interfere directly you know. That would be impossible and deny the Undergrounders the freedom they fight so hard to keep.” He reached into his robe and pulled out a medallion. “May this protect you.” He whispered as he pressed it into Slash’s hand. He stepped back. “You’re too smart for your own good. One day you may regret pressing this hard for an answer. But I doubt that we will.” Slash left with the Wizard’s words ringing in her head and the medallion in her hand. She had the feeling that something much more had happened than she was aware of. From the comfort of her private quarters, Shinwa watched as the zombie wondered away from the Sacred Lands back to the Underground. The image flickered as soon as Slash had left the boundary. Shinwa gave an irritated flick of her hand and the image changed to that of the Wizard. “Why did you bring her in? She shouldn’t be in this deep. She’s only half armed!” He demanded. “Given what she’s worked out for herself I could hardly ignore her. Besides, she will be a useful agent if her current progress is anything to go by.” Shinwa replied with a smile. “I don’t like it. You know how dangerous these creatures can be. She’s protected.” The Wizard replied. “Which makes her even more useful. Besides I won’t be putting her in danger. She can find that herself. Think of this as a trial run if it helps.” Shinwa soothed. The Wizard looked resigned. “I still don’t like it.” “I know. Now if you’ll excuse me.” Shinwa waved her hand and the image shifted to an office. “Greetings. I think I may have found someone worthwhile.” Shinwa began. Last Edit by:
SlashSlashX 7/04/12 - 5:16:46 pm
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