Session Start: Sat Oct 23 15:20:06 2004 Last time, on Hunters: The team got back from Maebashi and surroundings and went to meet with Sakura at the Agency. There was a surprise guest, a detective from the prefectural police. He questioned the team at length about the missing girl, then showed them traffic-light video imagery of two men walking away from the scene with the unconscious Lady Goggles. It was just enough to jog the Hunters' collective memory of the two unpleasant guys Junko had been worrying about at the arcade, and suddenly the situation took on an entirely different connotation. A composite sketch was created, and Sakura has decided she wants to do some directed canvassing of her own today, rather than wait for the police to get around to the area she thinks Junko might be in. [Sunday, February 1, 2004 - 0710 local time] [Blossom Agency lobby] [session start] * PrincessSakura stands impatiently in the lobby as the team comes by. * Minami comes by. * Taki was there early! * Maya has that habit of being there early... usually. Today, she's running a bit late, rings in hand. * Taki sits on the couch doing her best to not really look at Sakura. Or blush for that matter. * Lord_Darkmoon is actually a touch late. But looks refreshed. "Sorry...overslept." ^^; Aka and Tsubasa are actually with him today, too. * LadyMallet is already transformed, and changed. A long brown/teal trenchcoat is thrown on over a pink gymnastics outfit, and she's plenty awake. A sweatband on her head covers the tiara with the glowy gem. * Secretary pours coffee for Sakura, and anyone else who wants it. It's strong coffee. * Minami accepts a cup, taking distracted sips now and then. * Lord_Darkmoon accepts the cup with a smile. "Thank you." He sips it carefully, wincing at the first sip, but acclimating quickly. * LadyMallet passes. "It's okay, I already had breakfast." * Taki takes a coffee and simply holds it in her hand, staring at it intently. Okay. Taki came back with the composite drawings last night. * Secretary passes them around. * Maya accepts some, and sips. You can see her eyes pop open a little as she sits. Yeah... Okay... * Lord_Darkmoon nods, accepting a copy and looking them over. He's seen them already, though, so doesn't react much. * PrincessSakura tosses headsets to everyone. * Minami takes and catches. * LadyMallet catches, and slips them on. * Taki is so busy not looking at Sakura that she doesn't see the headset coming. It bounces off her shoulder, almost causing her to spill her coffee. * Taki looks up, embarrassed and grabs it. * LadyMallet blinkblinks at Taki. ... tired? I... uh, I gotta transform. * Maya catches hers without looking, then takes another sip. * Taki blushes and heads into the bathroom to change and do just that. I think I know generally where these guys and Junko are. The only residences within close walking distance of the Warabi mall is this old, run-down apartment complex called "Ginger Vista". ... fitting. * Lord_Darkmoon smirks. "How...quaint." ...oh, right. It appears to be a dump. * LadyMallet blinks, confused. * Minami heads in the bathroom after Taki finishes up. * LadyNightshade seems to linger in the bathroom for a bit longer than she usually does. * Maya patiently waits for her turn, sucking down the coffee quite quickly. Even on their website, it looks like an awful place to live. And the development of land out there leads one to believe it will get demolished in a few years as the new commercial district expands. * Minami waits patiently, watching/listening in on the conversation and sipping occasionally. This is not an invitation for you to knock it down today, Leena. ... * LadyNightshade comes back out in her black trenchcoat with the X stitched on the back, black jeans and a black turtleneck underneath. * LadyMallet rolls her eyes. "So there better not be a fight there." * Minami nods to Taki as she leaves, and enters. Hopefully there won't. Well, two normal guys, maybe without weapons. It shouldn't be too hard. * LadyNightshade smiles at Mina politely in response to the nod. IF they are...as we think they are, my methods may be more useful than yours, Leena-chan. *hefts his Katana* ... somehow, I don't think it'll be easy, if she's not back on her own yet. * LadyRoyal does her changing thang, and leaves. It's possible they won't live there at all... but I'm betting they are. * Maya stands, and takes her turn. The coffee's half-done. How do we know they won't have backup? Magical or otherwise? We don't. ...oh, dear. It's going to be one of *those* missions, isn't it. Aren't they all? I can't think of any way for this one to turn out entirely pleasantly. Well, true. Maybe they just wanted to dress her up? * Secretary shudders. ... As long as Junko is unharmed, it will turn out pleasantly. For all the people who matter, anyway. * LadyMysteria slips out, in a purple windbreaker suit with a Seigfried and Roy retro t-shirt on underneath. Hello 1986. .... what're we waiting for? Nothing. Then let's go. ^_^ * LadyMallet hops to her feet. "What he said!" ... Everyone matters. *mumbles* * PrincessSakura shrugs on a heavy coat over her pink turtleneck and shoulder holster combo. Mm. * LadyMallet closes up her trenchcoat. *entirely serious* Good luck, everyone. * LadyRoyal nods to the Secretary. "Thanks." Yeah... and Leena. Everyone. Let's try to keep this as not- attention-grabbing as possible. Okay? ... and thanks. * LadyMallet Vees at the Secretary. "We'll win, for sure!" * Lord_Darkmoon bows to the Secretary. "I appreciate it." * LadyMysteria nods to the Secretary, smiling a little. * LadyRoyal flicks a bare wink at Maya. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles at Lady Mysteria. "Of course, my Lady." *not quite so serious* And stay safe, Darkmoon-sama!! Thank you. * LadyMallet shrugs at Maya. "They've already got one mall down, what's one more right nearby?" * LadyMallet winks at Maya teasingly. Of course, Madam Secretary. ^_- As she walks out the door, Sakura winces. * LadyNightshade remains at the opposite side of the group as Sakura as everyone files out of the place. Not for any reason, mind you, just because she's Taki. And that's what she does. Right. Rin, you shouldn't encourage her like that. * LadyRoyal winces at Leena's comment, but just walks out. * LadyMysteria keeps going. "Leena, don't make me slap you." She sounds half- serious. * Secretary locks the doors from the inside as everyone leaves. * LadyMysteria may or may not have reacted to Rin's reply; it's hard to tell. Cross my heart and hope to die, if the building falls it won't be my fault. ^_^ * LadyMallet makes the appropriate motions. I hope you're not insinuating that the Big Bad Wolf will huff and puff at it. * LadyNightshade notices Sakura's reaction, but stays quiet. * LadyMallet whistles. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles apologetically at Sakura. "Sorry. I'm just in a better mood today than I've been lately." ^^; * LadyMysteria winds back to slap, then thinks better of it and keeps walking. I shouldn't meddle. It's a short walk to the train station, and only about twenty minutes to Warabi using the express trains. As you exit the train stop, you gaze across the street at the mildly- gutted wreckage of the Warabi mall. * LadyRoyal winces as she sees it. * LadyMallet looks embarrassed when she spots it. * Lord_Darkmoon winces, as well, but almost in a joking way. The windows are all blown out, and a few portions of the front wall are buckled inwards, but it doesn't appear to be in any danger of total collapse. ... hello. * LadyNightshade doesn't really react to it as she's more busy not looking at Sakura. Aw, you didn't bring it all the way down? It was an accident! It's not like I was trying.... >_> That's what they all say. * LadyMysteria chuckles slightly. "I guess it's vaguely worth it to see Tiara all whiny." Well, I'm sure you had help, too. Just stay away from Majestic Tiara for a few decades. Now, now, I'm sure those support columns just were good at dodging. Our little friend gave it her best. Don't encourage her. * LadyMallet hmphs. "I'm not going out of my way to stay away from anyone." .... except for Sponge. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles evilly. "And Majestic Tiara can survive the three days it's likely to take her to find a new mall." Um, we should get to the apartments, yeah? Yeah. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "We should." * LadyRoyal nods curtly. * LadyMallet looks around for the crummy-ass apartments described earlier. Yeah, where to? We should, and as soon as possible. * PrincessSakura stops at the curbside and points up. "There's the traffic camera." She points north. "And there's the direction they went in." * LadyRoyal looks up, over, and purses her lips. Those of you with functional memories do recognize the scene from the videotape. * Lord_Darkmoon walks up next to Taki, and asks semi-quietly, "Do you know if they make plushies of magical girls? In particular Princess Majestic Tiara?" * LadyMallet goes north! ... here. Let's go! ... No, I-- Why would I-- Yes. Yes they do. I have about 100 of those orderform cards they throw in with the packs of cards... * LadyMysteria goes as well, complete with a determined look. * LadyNightshade keeps her voice quiet so as to mask her shame. Ah, excellent. Aka needs a new chew-toy. * LadyRoyal goes! Come on, Taki; they're leaving us behind. *heads after the others. If Taki doesn't, as well, he'll drag her by the wrist* * PrincessSakura moves northward with determination. Oh, uh right. *follows* * LadyMallet bounces as she walks, skipping and jumping and going almost in a straight line, but not quite. Sorry, I just-- last night-- nevermind... * LadyRoyal moves northward with apathy masking edginess! * LadyMysteria jams her hands into her satchel and pulls out... a matching purple beret. That goes onto her head as she walks. Only a couple of blocks down the road, there is an underpass heading west below the railroad. Sakura leads them through it, and the team finds themselves in the midst of an apartment complex. ... hopefully this is the right place. * LadyRoyal becomes less apathetic and slightly more edgy once they enter. There are a half-dozen structures here, all of them eight stories tall. They were white once, but are discolored by rust stains and weird things that have dripped out of windows. * Lord_Darkmoon walks next to Sakura. "So, how do we do this? Knock on doors and show the pictures around? Or do we pretend we're selling cookies for school?" * LadyNightshade looks the place over, trying really hard to focus on her work. Oooh. We could just like, ask the manager. Many of those windows, and particularly those on the upper stories, are broken. * LadyMysteria seems a bit more unsettled than before. "Mn. Let's just get this taken care of..." I could sell girl-scout cookies! ... if I had some, anyway. There's no sense in disguising what we're looking for. That would just waste time. * LadyRoyal looks around, biting her lip a little. Alright, then. To the manager's office? So... we go around asking if they've seen two guys carrying a girl that looks like Junko? Don't know if they'd necessarily know. We find the manager, ask questions, kick down doors and handle things. In and out. Lotta places like this, the manager's better off not knowing. I wouldn't mention Junko, I don't think... ... we don't even know their names. I'll check, but I doubt there's a real property manager here on a Sunday. That too. Show the sketches. * Lord_Darkmoon pulls out his copies. I think they're good enough - if you get a hit, let everyone know. * LadyRoyal frowns a little. * Lord_Darkmoon taps the ear with the radio in it. "Will do. Come, Aka, Tsubasa." He begins moving off to start canvassing. * PrincessSakura claps her hands once. "Get moving." * LadyMallet pulls out hers, and sets off for the nearest building that no one else is taking. * PrincessSakura heads for one of the middle buildings. * LadyMysteria gets hers and starts to fan out in a direction away from the others, making sure her headset's on. * LadyNightshade looks about for something indicating which apartment belonged to the manager. * LadyRoyal wanders over to another building, still looking a little distracted. * LadyMallet starts rehearsing her lines, audible over the headsets. "Look up into their eyes, look cute, then... Hi, I'm looking for these two! ... what if they hold back? Parents, modeling agency, cookies, delivery? Delivery of cookies!" If they hold back, Leena, just move on to another apartment. Aww. * LadyNightshade discovers that the manager indeed opted out of staying at such a place on Sunday. Deciding it would be best to simply start at the top, she made her way to the top floor of the nearest building and started knocking on doors. Someone had to know something. Hopefully. * LadyMysteria locks onto an apartment and goes to work; needless to say, she seems to at least know how to use proper greetings and such to not seem too pushy. The first is a no-go... so is the next. And the next. And the next three after that. As the latest door closes, Maya scowls. * LadyMallet starts going through the apartments, going door to door, starting on the first floor. She's doing what she rehearsed, really stressing up the Cute Little Girl aspect. Every floor that doesn't turn up anything, she reports back. * Lord_Darkmoon enters a shortish apartment building, wrinkling his nose a bit in distaste at the disrepair and grime of the entryway. Aka steps in at his side, padding over some of the less pleasant detritus littering the cracked flooring. Tsubasa chirps discontentedly from his shoulder. Lord * Lord_Darkmoon heads down the hall on the first floor, and begins knocking. The first three do not respond, and the fourth actually opens under his fist as the latch gives way. Peeking inside, he quickly determines this one is unoccupied. Moving on, he finally encounters someone, who shakes her head apologetically when he asks her about the men in his pictures. Repeat ad nauseum on each floor of this building. * PrincessSakura goes on into the apartment building, and starts with the super's office on the ground floor. ...except that the door was open and the place was empty. Oh, well. She took the stairs up and started knocking on doors. Asking if they'd seen these two men, and doing her best to come over as a police detective. Without actually saying so, of course. * Lord_Darkmoon reports over the radio as he steps outside again. "Nothing here." * PrincessSakura eventually finds a couple of people who think they've seen the men around here, but have no idea where they live. Nothing on this end, either. * LadyMallet calls back. "No luck on this floor." Someone here thinks they live around here, but not in this building. * LadyRoyal wanders around her chosen building, knocking and asking in quiet mutters. She doesn't bother to report anything back to the others; in fact, her headset's mic is way hidden. She runs into several empties and a few "no ideas", but keeps on going. Nothing. * LadyRoyal goes to the next door and knocks. There's a rattling inside, and someone calls "...coming!" in a feeble voice. Eventually, the door opens. Hello? * OldWoman is in a well-worn kimono. You can barely make out her face under the wrinkles. * LadyRoyal ducks her head politely. "Hello'm, 'm sorry for disturbing you. 'm looking for 'a friend, was wonderin' if you could help? If I can, dearie... Got a package to deliver...to these two, here. * LadyRoyal shows the woman the picture. * OldWoman takes the sketch and squints at it. ...awful funny way to find someone... * LadyRoyal bobs her head in a pseudo-nod. "I know...'s just my job, fella who gave me these di'n't tell me much else." * OldWoman looks up again. "You sure you're delivering something to them? * LadyRoyal nods. Is it something nice? 'Cuz those two don't deserve it. * LadyRoyal shrugs. "Wouldn't know, 'm. Just m'job." If it helps the guy who gave me the pic looked kinda mean-like. Eh. Well, if you don't get it from me, you'll get it from someone else. * LadyRoyal waits attentively while trying to look bored and not show that she's holding her breath. They're living on the seventh floor, near the far end. I think they're the only ones up there. * OldWoman squints at Minami. * LadyRoyal looks relieved. "Thanks very much'm." She turns to leave, and then, "Uh, begging your pardon, why's it they're so bad?" Yer' a nice looking girl... maybe you should get someone else to go up there for you. When my granddaughter came by a couple of months ago, those two were really, really harassing her. * LadyRoyal looks curious. She could barely keep their hands off of her when she ran into them in the stairwell, and some of the things... well, I won't repeat them to a good girl like you. * LadyRoyal winces. "Aw, that sort, eh?" *bitter* I complained to the management, but they won't do anything. Maybe just leave it outside their door or something? If you have any sense, you should. *nodnod* * LadyRoyal nods. "Ah, akay. I got it." * LadyRoyal nods/bows slightly deeper. "Thank you muchly, 'm." 's all right, girl, I was awake anyway. * LadyRoyal nodbows again and backs away towards the end of the corridor. "Have y'self a nice day'm!" * OldWoman closes the door carefully. * LadyRoyal walks lightly towards the end of the corridor, fiddling with what looks like her hair but is the headset mic, and whispers. "Got 'em." Where? Where? Which one you in? * LadyMysteria perks up. "Where yo?" Seventh floor, last building on the right. * Lord_Darkmoon grins, and waits for Royal to say where. Er, from where we came in. ...on the way. Wait in the lobby. * LadyRoyal grunts in assent and heads on down. Hey! ... meanie. Aka. Come. *heads there* * LadyMallet makes tracks to the building Royal's in. * LadyMysteria hustles as well, gritting her teeth a little. * LadyNightshade wall bounces her way back down the ground floor as quick as she can, meeting everyone in the lobby. Everyone meets up in very quick order. * PrincessSakura has her coat hanging open now. * LadyRoyal brings people up to speed quietly. Cute girl, huh? That...fits. * LadyNightshade still can't bring herself to look Sakura in the eyes. Although looking at her body, isn't much better. Oh hey, mailboxes. * LadyMysteria doesn't say anything, looking nervous as she rocks on her heels. * PrincessSakura just nods. * LadyMallet cracks her knuckles. Okay. They're alone on the seventh? Then we just go straight in. Then why are we here? Let's go. Try not to wake up the whole building, though. * LadyMallet does that! Goes up, that is. 'Course. * LadyMysteria simply turns on her heels and starts moving. "Yes, ma'am." * LadyRoyal gets going. * LadyNightshade tries to keep ahead of Leena, just because someone should be. The stairs are narrow and steep. Not too hard for healthy young ladies, but none of you would want to climb this every day. * Lord_Darkmoon goes up at Sakura's order. His Tessen is still a tessen, but it's gripped like a weapon. * LadyMallet takes the steps three at a time, cheating a little with her transformed jumping boost. * LadyMysteria looks slightly more nervous as she ascends, one hand in her pocket. * PrincessSakura comes to the seventh-floor door, opens it far enough to get her head through, and looks around. * LadyNightshade is right next to Sakura as she opens the door, looking in around her. * LadyNightshade whispers. "Want me to go in first?" Apparently, she's satisfied, as she opens the door, draws her pistol... and starts beeping. Loudly. * LadyMallet is third. "... who goes first depends on how nicely we start." * LadyRoyal winces and looks around paranoidly. ... phone? ... * PrincessSakura closes the door, and slaps at her coat for a second before finding her cell and flipping it open. * LadyNightshade looks around, alert as she scans the room. ... Sakura? * PrincessSakura retreats down a half-flight before opening it. * LadyMallet blinks at Sakura's paranoia. What. ... * LadyMysteria glances down Sakura's way, but doesn't say anything at first. "Keep going, or wait for you?" Your Majesty. I'm with my team and- But- * LadyMallet takes up position right next to the door, watching Sakura. * PrincessSakura slumps. "Please?" * LadyRoyal winces, vaguely hearing Sakura's end of the conversation. * Lord_Darkmoon glares darkly at Sakura's phone. And, presumably, the person on the other end. * LadyMallet walks over to Sakura, looking annoyed. ...yes, your Majesty. *closes phone* * LadyMysteria frowns. "Bad news, I take it." * LadyRoyal waits for Sakura's orders. * PrincessSakura looks like she wants to stomp on her phone, but puts it away and walks down the stairs. ... it's all us. Should I go in ahead of everyone? ...wait... ... no. *No*. She can't. She didn't. * Lord_Darkmoon says, over radio, "What's up, Sakura?" Maya, Her Idiocy just ordered me home. Take over. I'll back up... whatever happens. ...ah. Gah. So, Maya. What do you say we go in all at once, me and Taki take down the jerks, and the rest of you make sure they can't get away and find Junko? ...why am I not surprised? ... okay. Just you... thank goodness. Sorry, Sakura... * LadyRoyal nods at Maya. "That's what I was afraid of as well. " I'm sorry too. This had better be good. * LadyNightshade looks sad to see Sakura go. * PrincessSakura disappears down the stairs. ... We'll do you proud, Sakura. * LadyMysteria looked ready to pop for a second. "Good luck... guys. There's no point in holding back. Taki, try to sneak in if you can. Everyone else, get ready." Okay. * LadyRoyal nods. "I'll cover the second staircase. " * LadyMallet opens up her trenchcoat, the pink gymnastics suit very pink and visible underneath it, and walks up the stairs calmly. * LadyNightshade slips into the hallway, heading down the hall. * Lord_Darkmoon winks at Maya. "Ready when you are." * LadyMysteria withdraws her wand and moves back up as well. The wink makes her pause, and she blinks a few times. "... shouldn't you be saving that for the Secretary? But I'm ready... let's go." The hallway is in a state of disarray. Most of the doors are open, and there's much debris on the floor. * LadyMallet steps around the debris carefully. * LadyNightshade moves toward the far side, listening for any sounds. The far end is actually picked up, though, and one door has a rather raunchy poster of an American rock star on it. * LadyRoyal walks up the stairs, waits a while to give Taki a few seconds lead, and then almost-casually goes over to the end of the hall, in front of the other stairway door, bouncing a card along her knuckles. * Lord_Darkmoon actually looks confused at Maya's comment about the secretary, but shrugs and follows. * LadyMallet stops at the door with the poster, and waits for Taki. * LadyNightshade moves toward that door. * LadyMysteria heads up, staying a bit away as she doesn't need to be too close, anyway. She locks onto the door, twitching a little. * LadyMallet whispers into the mic, "Everyone ready?" There is faint noise coming from inside, though it sounds like a radio or television. * LadyNightshade listens for sounds on the other side, before checking if it's locked. * LadyRoyal leans in the corner by the stair door, nodding, since everyone's in close enough an area that there's no need to use the mics. The door is locked when Taki checks it. She manages not to rattle it when she does. * LadyMallet whispers, "Locked?" Yeah... * LadyMallet moves Nightshades hand away, then grips it herself. "Let me try." Wait, I can pick it. * LadyRoyal winces at Leena. "Oh, geez." * LadyMallet blinks, and looks disappointed. "Oh, you can?" ... don't take too long. * LadyNightshade moves Leena's hand off the door as gently as possible. Leena, back. We're not trying to alter them outright... * LadyNightshade withdraws a set of lockpicks from a pocket inside her coat, and works them into the locks, setting the pins and unlocking the door successfully in a matter of seconds. The door swings slightly inward with a mild squeak. * LadyNightshade whispers into the headset. "Everyone ready? I got the lock." * LadyRoyal mms quietly. * LadyMysteria watches, impressed.. then flinches at the squeak. * LadyMallet walks briskly in as soon as it opens on it's own. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, with a quiet affirmative grunt. * LadyNightshade holds Leena back with a hand. * LadyMallet ... stops. * LadyMallet glances back at Nightshade, then nods silently. * LadyNightshade slips into the apartment, having a bit of difficulty in maintaining her invisibility as she turns it on. Lemme check it out first... * LadyMallet waits for Nightshade to do that. * LadyMysteria gets a bit closer, avoiding debris as she approaches. By now, the wand's out and she's spinning it between her fingers. "Mmm." * LadyNightshade sticks to the shadows as she scans the apartment. The door squeaks more as she moves through it, and a sleepy voice inside mumbles something nobody can quite understand. ... Be on the lookout for one of them coming from the other direction. * LadyNightshade heads towards the sound of the voice, looking around for any other sign of life. Right. The living room is surprisingly large. There's a TV on, and someone asleep on the couch. The voice came from a door on the left side. * Lord_Darkmoon keeps an eye on the direction Taki didn't go, from his limited viewpoint. * LadyMysteria turns so she's got her back to the wall. There are doors on the left and right - it seems like this was originally two apartments but the separating wall has been knocked out. * LadyRoyal edges around to get a partial view of the interior of the apartment, while still standing watch outside and trying to look at least semi-casual. One person on the couch in the living room, checking out the rooms. Light is coming in from a half-shuttered window - Taki flickers in and out of visibility as she moves further into the room. * LadyNightshade moves to the door on the left, listening for more sounds from it. The guy on the couch stirs, and begins to sit up as he just barely hears Taki whisper. The couch guy's waking up... * LadyNightshade rushes the guy as quick and silent as she can, placing a hand over his mouth, keeping him facing away from her. "Shh..." The guy twists away just fast enough to shout something unintelligible. He thrashes around, making lots of noise, but he's just not strong enough to get away from Taki. There is a crashing noise from the first side room. * LadyNightshade whispers into her mic, "Get ready. Someone in the room on the left." ... that's my cue. * LadyNightshade picks the guy up, keeping him between her and the door. In! * Lord_Darkmoon 's Tessen flashes into a Katana, and he steps into the room, facing the door to the occupied room. * LadyMallet rushes in, and veers left as soon as she sees the door. * LadyNightshade slips an arm around his throat, putting him in a sleeper hold. * LadyMysteria heads in as well, wand at the ready. She scans around, looking at the various doors leading from the living room proper. The second man steps through the side door - he's got a katana of his own in hand, though just about everyone present can tell it's a cheap replica ordered out of a prop catalog. ... oh come ON. * LadyRoyal remains on watch in case of attempted escape, or backup. He charges Mallet and Darkmoon, though he slows just slightly as he sees Darkmoon's sword. * Swordguy misses with a horribly amateur stroke. * Lord_Darkmoon grins at him. "Nice toy. Ever used it before?" Don't kill them until we know who they are... ^^; Just... disable, yes. * Lord_Darkmoon steps forward, bringing his Katana around in an arc to strike the replica-wielding guy's wrist, converting his Tessen to a Bokken at the last second. Darkmoon times it just barely wrong, and cracks the man hard on his forearm instead. He screams in pain, but does not drop the weapon. * Lord_Darkmoon chuckles. "That thing's going to break if I hit it with mine, boy. I'd hate to break such a fancy-looking replica. Wouldn't you?" Lady Mallet sticks her leg out to trip the man, and entirely misses. * LadyMallet re-sets her feet, not phased or slowed down by the miss at all, then crouches and leaps at him. "You CREEPS!" * LadyMallet dives right past him. * LadyMysteria simply raises her wand at the man. "Stay put." Out come the pretty colored ribbons... ...which swirl and shimmer for a moment, then wrap themselves tightly around the hapless man. * Swordguy loses the sword and topples ungraciously to the carpet. Awww. I wanted to cut off an arm, or something. *smirks, which should tell the party, at least, that he's kidding* You got the other one, 'Shade? Check them out. * LadyMysteria starts towards the side room... hesitantly, but she does it. By this point, Nightshade has been up close and personal with the man she's holding long enough to recognize him from the arcade. * LadyMallet leaves the ribboned guy to Darkmoon, and checks the room he came from. Darkmoon recognizes the other guy as well. Yeah. Lady Mallet finds a cluttered, smelly bedroom. * Lord_Darkmoon collects the replica katana, and puts it in a convenient sheath at his belt. Then he kneels next to ribboned-guy. "So. Fancy meeting you here. Kidnap anyone interesting lately?" * LadyNightshade uncovers his mouth long enough to interrogate him. Goggles, you in here? * LadyMallet looks around for something like.. Goggles, really. Check the rooms. * LadyNightshade turns to the man in her arms. "Where is she?" * LadyMysteria pokes around a little, frowning as she gropes for a lightswitch... even as she locks onto what she thinks is a person in the room she's searching. The lightswitch is flipped, revealing a squirming girl, tied to a chair, blindfolded and gagged. ... * LadyMysteria wastes little time in trying to do away with the blindfold and gag. "I got her, I think!" * LadyMallet wrinkles her nose, and wastes no time in getting out of there. "Other one!" It takes a moment to recognize her as Junko - she has the right sailor fuku, but it's the wrong color - a crusty crimson of dried blood. * LadyRoyal calls inside from the door. "Careful, let her know who we are first." Goggles... Goggles. It's Mysteria. We're gonna get you outta here. The blindfold seems almost impossible to loosen, it's so tight, but the gag, once tugged hard out from between her teeth, comes off readily enough. * LadyMallet stops to kick the ribboned guy in the side. "That's for being creeps in general!" She doesn't care if she hears something crack, and goes to see Mysty and Goggles. Can we tie this guy up too? I'm kind of tired of touching him. And he smells. * LadyGoggles is sobbing awfully, and can't seem to respond coherently to Maya. * LadyMysteria works feverishly, tossing both gag and blindfold aside. It seems to be everything she can do to keep from just bawling where she kneels, moving to all the rope that's tying her down. * LadyMallet stops as she enters the room with Goggles and Mysty. "Oh gods...." Feel free, 'Shade. Help me. Mysty, should I call the police? Or do we want to handle these gentlemen more...personally? * LadyNightshade looks around for something to bind the guy with. Like duct tape. Or his own intestines. * LadyMallet steps closer, and starts helping with the ropes and stuff. "Goggles, are you okay? I'm so sorry I let them slip by me back at the mall... oh god, goggles..." We're not going to kill them! * LadyMysteria pauses for a moment. That question seems to have started a war inside her head. Finally, she answers; "Police." As you wish, my Lady. Here, 'Shade, use his own clothes. *tosses Nightshade the Tessen* I'll call them after we've gotten Goggles out of here. * LadyRoyal takes a step inside, all business. "Someone ask them if they're working alone or not. If there's more of those creeps coming in, I wanna know about it." The blindfold comes off, finally, and Leena just plain breaks the ropes. * LadyGoggles squints, as though she hasn't seen light in days, and finally begins to calm down somewhat. * LadyNightshade waves the magic stick thing over the guy thinking about him being all tied up. She doesn't look really comfortable as she does it. It's us... it's us. That is a good question. *lightly slaps the ribboned goon's cheeks* Well? You awake, there? * LadyMysteria moves in for a hug, trying to calm Junko down. Jesus Christ... ...what1? * LadyNightshade hands the sword back to Darkmoon as quick as she can. * LadyMallet goes to hug her, too, gently. "It's okay, we're here, it's okay... Shhhh...." What the fuck is wrong with you? The floor in the room is even more bloody than Junko's clothes are. *takes it back unconsciously* Do you have any friends coming? What was your plan, anyway? * LadyNightshade almost screams as she finally doesn't have to worry about holding onto the guy anymore. Huh? ...friends? Like we told anyone about this? * LadyMysteria seems to finally notice the blood. There's a question on the tip of her tongue, but she swallows it down while starting to look a little green. "Let's go. Let's go let's go let's go." ..mm. ... get her out of this room. Goggles, can you walk? * LadyRoyal goes all the way inside, making a face at the men, and heads to Maya and Leena's voices. * LadyGoggles moves freely away from the chair. "...yes". What were you thinking? You're just lucky I'm in a good mood, or I'd have cut off your arm. You deserve it, you know? *conversational tones, as if discussing what he had for breakfast this morning* Then we're leaving. * LadyRoyal looks inside the room and gulps. 'K. * LadyGoggles stumbles out the door to the main room, then freezes as she sees the two men on the floor. * LadyMallet calls out to Darkmoon. "Darkmoon, do you know Tiara's number? Get her to get Goggles team out here." * LadyRoyal turns to leave. * LadyMysteria takes off her jacket and offers it to Junko... or tries to, as she freezes. ....is that them? * Lord_Darkmoon looks at Mallet with a "you've got to be kidding me" expression. ... yes, it is. * LadyMallet nods at Darkmoon. "Or let me talk to her, at least." Yeah. Don't... don't do anything. We're calling the cops. They'll take care of it. ...why? *to Mallet* * LadyRoyal glances at Maya. "Maybe you should call the office, ask if we can get that detective's number." Just call! I'll stay with them till the cops get here... * LadyMysteria flicks out her cell and dials 'home'. As will I. * LadyGoggles pauses, obviously considering something. I wouldn't, Goggles. You don't want to be nice and let them off too quickly. * LadyMallet closes her eyes, letting Goggles make her decision. "... I'll tell you now, you don't want blood on your hands." It doesn't come off. Ever. ...like they let me off? That's all I'll say. There... has to be some kind of justice done, Goggles. I can't tell you want to do, but... trust us to make sure they pay for the rest of their lives. Oh, if you're just going to maim them and it will make you feel better, have at it. *still calmly discussing the weather by his tone* But killing them would be too quick. * LadyMysteria swallows. "... you don't know how badly I want to hurt them myself." I think I broke one of the guys ribs already. * LadyRoyal just crosses her arms for now, looking frosty. *Very* frosty. * LadyGoggles looks like she can't decide... then sprints out of the room crying again. * LadyNightshade stays quiet as she looms over the guys. * LadyMysteria pauses... then follows Junko. "Wait!" Someone go help her... Darkmoon, call Tiara, get the rest of her team out here. NOW. * Lord_Darkmoon sighs. "You are...perhaps right, Mallet. She needs her friends." He dials something on his cell phone, then tosses it to Mallet before hitting "send". "That's Tiara's number." She needs her friends as soon as she can get them. Wait-- * LadyNightshade drags the other man in the hall over to the couch with his friend. * LadyMallet catches the phone, and holds it to her ear. * LadyRoyal looks torn. "Police *and* her MG team?" MG team to help Goggles. Police to handle these creeps. I know. I meant, at the same time. May want to get Goggles and Tiara's team away from here, then call the police. 'Shade and I can guard these losers until they arrive. ... right... real quick, Morioka's number... thanks. Yes, we have her. Gotta go. Thing is, Goggles should put in her word with the police. * LadyMysteria continues to pursue Goggles while dialing number two! That can wait. Do you want these guys locked up or not? Mostly, keep Tiara away from me. I won't be responsible for what I do to her. ^_^ *now he's talking about his favorite TV show, by tone* The weaker case we give 'em, the more they'll slack off on this. Y'can't trust the police to just magically be able to do everything just because you say it happened. Oh, I wouldn't worry too much about the case. These guys are just going to confess to everything. Right? *he smiles down at sword-guy* * LadyMallet walks over to the ribboned guy, and kicks him in the side again. "Look at the room she was in. At all the blood." There was ... more than Goggles. * Swordguy is just plain not saying anything at this point, hoping that he doesn't make anyone angry enough to kill him before the police show up. But Goggles is the only one who's here and can *tell* them what's been going on. * Lord_Darkmoon 's face darkens. "Because, if they ARE NOT in jail for long enough to satisfy ME, I will find them during a Full Moon." Leena. Stop it. Damn it. * LadyRoyal winces and slumps standing against the wall, rubbing the bridge of her nose again. NO! It's a worse time for Goggles- who's alive and well and scared. Get her team over to the apartments near the mall as fast as you can... she needs it. If I tell you, will you promise to get over with her team RIGHT NOW? Fine. This is Mallet, and our team just found and saved Goggles. *her voice softens* Please, I'm begging you, for Goggles sake. If you won't come, get the rest of her team here. She's scared, and bloody, and who knows what's going through her head..." She needs her friends. * LadyMallet listens to the phone. Why can't they meet her at our office? This really isn't the place to be bringing in Tiara of all people... Especially not with the fucking police coming. I'm just saying. * LadyRoyal just sounds tired and bitter now. * LadyNightshade has her thoughts working to keep her mind off the two men before her and what sort of shit they've done in this place. ... * LadyMallet blinks at the phone, holding it away from her. "Well, fuck her too." * Lord_Darkmoon smirks. "I see she was more polite than usual. What did she say, Mallet?" It's probably not safe or sane to be here anymore. If Tiara knows about it... Then she can just deal with it. Who's calling, if you don't tell me I'll hang up, oh, it's YOU, you take care of Goggles because I'm a bitch and don't care about her, don't call again. It was your freaking idea to call her in the first place, and you've seen the way she acts. .... I thought she'd at least care about one of her girls. For some reason, she doesn't strike me as the type of girl who got to where she is by her wonderful leadership skills. * LadyMallet tosses the phone back to Darkmoon. "Time to catch up with her!" Her? Care? Goggles ain't a princess, and isn't her bestest best friend. *catches the phone* She doesn't care. * LadyMallet jets, trying to catch up with Mysty and Goggles. * LadyRoyal shakes her head. [down the hall, Maya tries to get the police while chasing Goggles] * LadyGoggles isn't making good time, tripping on the debris and bouncing off the walls. * LadyMysteria is, however, and it trying her damnedest to close the gap... while dialing. It's one hell of a task, but being a stage magician helps. * LadyMysteria finally... just looks at the phone and closes it before hitting 'send'. "Goggles! Junko, stop running!" * LadyGoggles pauses, just on the verge of opening the stairwell. * LadyMysteria scrambles to catch up and get a light grip on Junko's shoulder. "... just... stop for a second and trust me." * LadyGoggles melts. "o-o-okay, Lady Mysteria. ...I *do* trust you." * LadyMysteria exhales heavily. "Good... look. I'm not going to order you to do anything... I promised to bring you back safely. And..." She pauses a little. "... I'm sorry that this had to happen. It's..." It's... *quietly* It's not your fault. It should be. ... but now isn't the time to focus on that. We all need to rest. * LadyGoggles closes her eyes, and leans back against the wall, then opens then quickly with a gasp and starts shuddering again. ...I'm never going to sleep in a darkened room again. * LadyMysteria simply offers Junko another hug. At this point, she's really fighting back her emotions. "Mmmn. Let's... just go for now. I can't stand this place either." What... what's going to happen? We have a contact in the police department who'll deal with them. ... after that... I don't know. * LadyMysteria looks down at her feet. "So much has happened in the last few days." * LadyGoggles sobs harder. * LadyMysteria tightens the hug a bit; she can stop everything but tears, it seems. "We need to go..." *sniff* Where? * LadyMallet tiptoes into view, being careful of the debris. She stops, and slouches against a wall, not wanting to interrupt the two. Anywhere but here. W-we can go back to the Agency if you'd like. ...what's that? * LadyNightshade says over the coms, "The rest of you should go. Darkmoon and I can hold the fort until the cops arrive." * LadyNightshade said that as Leena left to follow the others. * LadyRoyal leans against the outer doorframe. "Um..." * Lord_Darkmoon nods in agreement with Nightshade. You'll see. It's where we work from. ... * LadyMallet looks at GogglesxMysteria, then sighs, and heads back into the room. * LadyRoyal approaches slowly, keeping her voice down. "Uhh, Junko? I know this isn't the best time...I was wondering, do you want to give your report to the police first, to make sure that these...these 'people' never do something like this again? They can take you back to your family..." * LadyMysteria lets go a bit and offers Junko her jacket again while paying attention to the headsets again. "Alright. I haven't called yet... let's..." She pauses at Mina's comment, realizing she has a point. * LadyMallet squats down next to the ribboned man, and watches him for a moment, silently. I... don't know... maybe that would be good? It probably would be. Thanks, Royal. * LadyMysteria finally digs the phone out, opens, dials. * Lord_Darkmoon watches Mallet watching the ribboned man, an uncertain expression on his face. Leena. Leave him alone. * LadyRoyal purses her lips and nods. She hesitates for a second, then gives Junko's shoulder a *light*, sympathetic squeeze. .. I just want to ask him one thing. * LadyMysteria steps a bit away from Junko. "We have her and the two guys." * LadyGoggles realizes that Maya needs some hands free, and gloms onto Royal instead. Mysteria. * LadyRoyal blinks in surprise, but does her best to try and comfort Junko. * LadyMysteria smiles weakly. "Sorry... it's been a stressful day. And yes. We don't exactly give up." * LadyNightshade watches Leena carefully, ready to restrain her if she has to. * LadyMysteria calmly relates the location of the apartments over the phone, relaxing some. "She's well, physically. But she's badly shaken. I doubt... she was treated well." * LadyMallet finally decides what she's going to say, and says slowly, calmly, drawing out each word.... "How many before her?" She looks like she wants to say-- or do-- more. Mmm-nnn. She's alright. Just get here... I think she's up to giving you what you need to know to send these... men away. Leena, that's not important... not right now. Let the police worry about it. * LadyMysteria fidgets some, hugging herself with her free hand. * LadyMallet ignores Nightshade, still looking passively at the ribboned man and waiting for an answer. ... Detective? Ginger Vista. Seventh floor of... ... * LadyRoyal whispers to Maya. "Building 2." ... ah. Building 2. Just look for the clean section. Thanks. * LadyNightshade doesn't say anything else to Leena for now. She's sorta curious what the answer is as well. * LadyMallet narrows her eyes a little, but keeps them locked on Ribbons. "... how many." * LadyGoggles is crying again, but whispers in Royal's ear, "Thank you, thank you all." * LadyMysteria hangs up and tucks the phone away. "Alright... Morioka's coming. It's just a matter of who stays..." * Swordguy can't stand Leena's stare. "No one else. Never." No offense, but I think Leena should be on the go list. Then why!? *escapes his control* * LadyNightshade puts a hand on Leena's shoulder. * Swordguy shuts up again. * LadyMallet stands wordlessly, and leaves. Mmmmn. * LadyRoyal nods at Maya, while stroking Junko's hair. "Shhh, shhh..." She pauses at Junko's statement. "Uh, you're welcome..." You need to relax. You're getting too tightly wound. You're gonna snap... I'm worried about you... * Lord_Darkmoon follows Leena out with his eyes, then glances at Nightshade before going back to watching his charge. And now keeping a secondary eye on Nightshade's, since she's busy with Leena. * LadyMallet says softly, in response to Taki, "... Mallet can take care of herself. It's Leena you need to worry about." ... You're the same person. Don't think like that. It's not good. ...Mallet...don't. Don't separate yourself like that. It hurts too much. Believe me. You needn't put yourself through it. Royal, I think you'll be fine with Junko. Mallet, you're coming with me. We can leave matters to them. * Lord_Darkmoon looks up at Mallet again. "If you separate them...they will merge again, eventually. And you may not like the person they become." * LadyRoyal nods at Maya. * LadyMysteria simply starts walking towards the stairwell, tapping Mallet on the shoulder as she passes by. * LadyMallet leaves. * LadyMysteria pauses before going down. "... meet back at the Agency. And... Junko. Take Junko wherever she wants to be after this, okay?" * LadyRoyal nods again. "Of course." * LadyMysteria nods, and heads off to catch up with Leena. * LadyGoggles finally calms down somewhat, and tries to steel herself for the arrival of the police. She lets go of Minami mostly, but still clutches her hand. * LadyRoyal lets Junko clutch as necessary and awkwardly pats Junko's hand in return if she starts looking too nervous. The sirens take just a few minutes to arrive at the foot of the building. Surprisingly, Morioka is with the first patrolmen to come up the stairs. * LadyRoyal stands up to meet him, gently pulling Junko up as well. * Morioka looks somewhat aghast at Junko's appearance. ...are you sure she's not hurt? * LadyGoggles twitches, and chokes back a sob. * LadyRoyal pats Junko's hand. "...not as much on the outside as she is on the inside, I'd say." * LadyRoyal gives a bare nod to Morioka. "Detective." One of the uniformed officers pukes up his breakfast at the sight of the girl. * LadyNightshade continues crouching near the couch in an almost meditative state. Where are the kidnappers? * LadyRoyal tilts her head in the direction of the room. Right. * Morioka goes on back with most of the policemen. A young female officer comes over to help with Junko. * Morioka stops just outside the doorway, and lets the other officers handcuff... and then untie the two kidnappers. * LadyNightshade stands to great the officers as they arrive. * Lord_Darkmoon stands from his crouching position next to ribboned-boy, and bows to Morioka. Aka pads over and sits guard over the man, directing his canine attention towards him now that Darkmoon's not watching him. ...are they badly hurt? Uh, the one might be a bit bruised. The other one I subdued before he had a chance to struggle, really. Right. * Morioka gestures his men to take the criminals away, and then turns his gaze back to Darkmoon and Nightshade. It's obvious there's a question he wants to ask, but... * Lord_Darkmoon tilts his head, half-inviting the question, if the detective thinks they won't have to refuse to answer. * LadyNightshade asks first. "They're... going to go away for a good long time right?" One of the policemen has been looking through the other rooms, and reaches the room where Junko was held. He nearly screams, but contains it well enough to emit a not-too-unmanly yelp instead. Oh, gods. Oh gods. * LadyNightshade winces at the other man's reaction. Well... that depends on a lot of things. I need to talk to all of you and- * Lord_Darkmoon flinches, not quite wincing. * Morioka sticks his head around that doorway and flinches. ...are you SURE she's okay? * LadyNightshade has done her best to avoid looking in that room thus far. She is...what she is. Physically, she is healed. Yeah. Physically. We heal. I never thought it could be such a curse though... We don't know exactly what -they- *spits that word* did to her; we can only guess. That has not healed. Because, that's, like half-again the amount of blood a girl her size has. Total. Solidifying on the floor in there. Gods. Yeah... * LadyNightshade shudders a bit at the thought. That happens. *pulls out that fake katana he picked up earlier, and glares at it, rather than at people* * Morioka forces himself to turn away, and snaps at the officers still in the room. "Get a full forensics unit in here." Um. And would you two follow me? * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "Of course. ...will you be needing this sword as evidence for anything?" Um... We'll answer whatever questions we need to to make sure they're put away... Of course. Did you cut one of them with it? No. The idiot tried to threaten me with it. Oh. let the techs pick it up. * Lord_Darkmoon sighs, and carefully puts it down. "Very well." Looking back up at the detective, he continues, "Shall we go?" * Morioka leads Darkmoon and Nightshade out into the hall, and chases the woman officer away so he can huddle with the team and Junko. * LadyRoyal looks up at Morioka. ...look, there are some problems here. ... * LadyRoyal blinks. What do you mean? The forensics probably won't be enough to convict them. Why not? Because we tampered with things too much... All we did was untie Junko. And tie them. No... but... Junko isn't visibly hurt. That's because we heal! I see... So a good lawyer might argue this is all a put-on. So at the very least, we're going to need her to testify and demonstrate her healing. ... I... I can do that. ...can they get a good lawyer? What, cut her open in front of a jury? A good enough one. But that's not even the problem, Junko-san. * LadyRoyal frowns. You were listed missing as Junko, not Lady Goggles. * LadyRoyal winces. ... * LadyGoggles doesn't look like she gets it, but then again it's not her best day either. Can we keep it private? On behalf of the Queen? I mean it's not like it'd even be on TV... So... to make this stick, you have to appear in court as Junko. And to convict them, you would have to show conclusively to the court that you are Lady Goggles. ...oh ...if they confess, need this occur? They won't confess. This is a death-penalty case. Kidnapping/attempted murder... and... * Morioka looks at Junko. "And rape?" * LadyNightshade shudders and looks visibly ill. * LadyGoggles just barely nods. * LadyRoyal [cringes] at that. * Lord_Darkmoon blanches, and looks sick for a moment, before forcing a false calm across his expression. * LadyNightshade falls back on her butt. The room is spinning now. They. Will. Confess. ... I am so sorry, Junko. * Morioka looks at Darkmoon. "You're never getting close enough to make them." ... I... I'll do it. * Lord_Darkmoon shakes his head. "I...apologize. That is...probably wise." He takes a couple deep breaths, and looks more in control of himself. We can keep it secret right? Keep what secret? * LadyNightshade she pulls herself to her feet, trying not to repeat what the other officer did earlier. * Morioka doesn't seem to have heard Junko. Her identity. Only the Judge needs to see her transform, right? No. It's not doable. ... I'll do it, okay? * Morioka looks at her gravely. "You can always change your mind... but good for you." Okay... I just don't want you to become a target for... anyone else. * Lord_Darkmoon looks sympathetically at Junko. * LadyRoyal nods. * Morioka chuckles gravely. "I think that an outed Lady would be a little too high-profile a target for your usual enemies." When...are you going to make it all public? Will she get a chance to think it over? ... There are more things than assassins and Ningyo... ...what of her team? Does this endanger their identities, as well? * Morioka turns around, and checks what his other officers are doing. We should talk more later. You should probably leave - run - before I have to take your statements. * LadyNightshade takes a deep breath, trying to control herself. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask. * LadyRoyal nods. Junko, we'll take you to the hospital, and your parents will meet you there. * Lord_Darkmoon bows, and backs away, waiting for Royal and Nightshade before taking off at haste. Should she detransform, then? * LadyGoggles tears up again. "Thank you all... for everything..." * LadyRoyal pats Junko's hand one last time and tries to hand her over to Morioka. We're only sorry we couldn't find you earlier. *hissed* Not until you leave! Anything for you. I promise. You're welcome, Junko. If...you need anything, just ask. * Lord_Darkmoon turns and sweeps towards the stairs. * LadyGoggles half-smiles, and then walks back over to the woman officer. * LadyNightshade almost doesn't want to leave the other girl alone. * LadyRoyal looks after Junko for a second, then gives Morioka a small smile and nod and walks off. * LadyNightshade stands there a bit. Unsure of herself. * LadyRoyal puts her hand on Taki's shoulder. "C'mon." Yeah... There's...nothing more we can do, for now. [end session] * LadyNightshade can't hold herself back as she enters the stairway, and throws up herself.