Session Start: Sat Feb 26 16:17:49 2005 Last time, on Hunters: Princess Squeegee dropped by the shop Tuesday evening and consulted with Sakura. The arrival of the US Navy carrier had set both of their conspiracy senses a-twitching, and they managed to come up with several worst-case scenarios, of which the two nuclear outcomes seemed to best fit Darkmoon's father's paranoia the best. The Princess - that's Squeegee, not Sakura - had received an invitation to attend welcoming ceremonies onboard the ship as it arrives in the bay. She could take four "assistants" with her, and the Hunters, as the group with the most experience interfacing with the real world (even if just in killing people from it) are getting the call. A major shopping session ensued as the people going had to ensure that they were suitably dressed for it. Back at Takeuchi Memorial, things calmed down a little... but there are still rumors of kidnappings and deep plans afoot. [Saturday, February 28, 2004 - 430 local time] [the Agency lobby] [session start] * LadyRoyal is there like a care bear. Or like a Mina. Probably the latter. * LadyMallet is there. Like a Leena. She's in an ivory and dark pink dress. The dress itself is made of silk, and reaches to just above her breasts- which are slightly padded. The lower part is mostly ivory silk, with a large butterfly imprint in pink silk on its side, placed such that half of it is visible from the front. A series of small, pink dots trail off the lower edge of the front wing. She's wearing a shoulder jacket with it, in the same design. Her eyes are grey- probably due to contacts, and her hair is professionally made up. To top it all off, there's a bright pink butterfly pin in her hair. She's a few inches taller, as well. Which is explained by the expensive-looking high heels, ivory-colored, with a shine to the straps that cross over like an X. * LadyNightshade is there like grrr. She leans against the wall, visibly annoyed at herself with her black leather coat wrapped around a dress she refuses to show anyone. Her arms are crossed tightly over her chest. (Alternatively, see http://www.joshann.com/pages/Artpages/CG_Art/leenaindress.html# ) * Lord_Darkmoon is there, looking very dapper in a black business suit with a black, buttoned-down shirt-with-collar under the jacket. He's got a red jewel- tone tie setting off a blue handkerchief tucked fashionably into his breast pocket, and his shoes are a brightly polished black slip-ons. His hair is even more neatly held back than normal, ponytail clasped by a dark blue ring. His Tessen is in his right hand, folded. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles, skillfully keeping himself from laughing at Taki. "Come now, Taki, you look lovely in your dress. Let's see it, please." ^_^ * LadyNightshade shoots Darkmoon a LOOK. * LadyMallet twirls in place, showing off yet again. "C'mon, Taki, let's see!" I can't believe I let you talk me into this... * PrincessSqueegee eyes everyone's apparel, mostly approvingly. She herself has on an almost-royal blue suit, with just a hint of silvery trim. The jacket is quite form-fitting and is buttoned high enough to show no cleavage through the open collar. Her skirt is of the same thickish material, and almost knee- length, but not exceptionally tight. Yes, do, please. Don't hide your beauty; share it with everyone. * LadyNightshade takes off her coats since she obviously can't go with it on. She's wearing a black Chinese-style dress with slits on either sides going up to her hips for freedom of movement and display of her rather athletic legs. There's a red dragon print wrapping around the outfit. * Lord_Darkmoon offers to hold her coat. * LadyMallet looks Taki up and down, a huge grin on her face. * LadyNightshade has a pair of red heals on and her hair is done up in a bun with red and black chopstick. You can actually see her face for once! She's wearing a moderate amount of makeup with black lipstick which she insisted on. ... I'll hold it. * LadyNightshade cradles her coat protectively. That's almost a little much, Leena - we're not going to a ball, just a boat. * LadyRoyal is also wearing a suit. Looks almost like she got it from the men's department, actually. It's light grey, with silver buttons, a black dress shirt underneath and a thin white tie, which she straightens self-consciously. The only feminine image to the suit is the fact that the jacket is flared like a woman's at the bottom, with pointed collar tips. She's wearing sensible black flats, and a silver pin in the shape of a leaf is holding her hair back in a simple ponytail. It's actually quite professional, Princess. Secretarial, or advertisement executive, I think, but it works. * LadyRoyal shakes her head at Leena's ensemble and turns to Squeegee. "Maya's sick. Asked me to cover for her." Ah, but it never hurts to look good. This is underdressed for a ball, but one should never cut corners in the name of beauty. No problem. ... Why does she get to wear pants? * Lord_Darkmoon looks over the others, and smiles at each. Even if it becomes a touch...diplomatic...when he looks at Squeegee. * PrincessSqueegee shrugs. "I was hoping for a little more practical, I guess. No big deal. * LadyRoyal grins sympathetically at Taki. * PrincessSqueegee glances at her watch. "Time to go." * LadyMallet twirls her dress. "Well, next time, you could write up a more thorough set of guidelines as to purchase an outfit." 'Cause I did my own shopping and all their attention was on you. Nice cheongsam, though. I only went by the ones you laid down, to the best of my fashion sense. * LadyMallet bows at Squeegee. * Lord_Darkmoon frowns slightly. But doesn't reply to Taki's question, and resumes his pleasantly business like expression. "Very well, Princess." He opens the door. "After you, Ladies. And Princess." * LadyRoyal nods at Squeegee. "Right." * PrincessSqueegee shoos everyone out the front door and into her monstrously huge, deep-blue American SUV parked in the street. * LadyNightshade puts her coat back on reflexively as everyone files out. * LadyRoyal O_os at the SUV, and is very glad she has pants so as not to have trouble climbing into it. * LadyMallet giggles, and walks slowly and ladylike to the SUV. * Lord_Darkmoon helps any Ladies who accept assistance into the SUV, so as to preserve their lady-like demeanor. He even gallantly offers the Princess such assistance. * PrincessSqueegee brushes by Darkmoon as she climbs in to drive. * LadyMallet jumps in, landing lightly and seating herself. * Lord_Darkmoon moves to make sure he's not in the Princess's way. * LadyNightshade climbs into the back so she can sulk. * Lord_Darkmoon gets in last, in the front passenger seat if it's available, and buckles in without a word. * PrincessSqueegee pulls away from the curb. None of you have ridden in a car this big before, and it feels like a land yacht. So... you kids need a little bit of background info. * LadyRoyal nods. * LadyNightshade looks up at Squeegee. Cause this is business. * Lord_Darkmoon looks to the Princess attentively. In this guise, I am Maya Ishikawa. You should address me as Ishikawa-san, or if it is a very informal moment, perhaps as sempai. * LadyRoyal nods slowly. Yes, Ishikawa-san. *nod* Ishikawa is a very successful young businesswoman and investor, who manages a rather large but privately-held market fund. ... your mundane identity? This fund is called the "Hierarchy Futures Fund". ...no, this isn't actually my real mundane identity, but it is what the world sees. * LadyMallet nods. * LadyRoyal nods. "Smart idea." So we work for you? You kids are a mix of my most promising interns and some bright young students I sponsor at a local private school. You should decide which, though I'd recommend that only the older-looking of you take the first option. Mm. I'll be a student... * Lord_Darkmoon thinks for a moment, and sees what others choose. * LadyRoyal looks around. * LadyMallet hmms. "I'd like the first option, but I'm not sure I can pull it off." You're too young, girl. Or at least you look way too young. Am not! Just... * LadyRoyal looks down at herself. "This probably looks more like an intern's suit than a student's one, but whatever." * LadyMallet crosses her arms, and grumbles. Well, what's your fund do? Anyway, I've been invited because I recently invested a notable amount of money in Universal Shipbuilding, and I'm seen as a fashionable trendsetter in the markets. * Lord_Darkmoon looks down at himself, as well. "Intern." * LadyRoyal nods at Squeegee, and then nods conspiratorially at Darkmoon. What do we do? We make money for the Queen. But don't tell that to anyone. It's a seeeecret who our backers are. Heh. 'Course. * Lord_Darkmoon acknowledges Royal's nod with a glance, then looks back at the others, and nods once. "Secret investors, understood. It would help add to the image of a 'trendsetter', too." How much are we supposed to actually uh... talk? Frankly, I think I'm only a mediocre fund manager, but there have a lot of... fortunate coincidences that have driven our value up. * LadyMallet blinks. "And... uh. I've no idea how this works. We're invited ... to just mingle and get a rare opportunity to make some high-ranking friends, because they like you so much?" How fortunate, Ishikawa-sempai. Indeed. Leena-san, it is a formal event. Ishikawa-sempai is invited so she can meet other potential investors and company holders to invest in. And so her current business acquaintances can show her off and brag about knowing this up-and-coming money marketer. Well, this will be something of a speak-only-when-spoken-to situation for you. Hell, I'm going to be pretty low on the social ladder here, but it's part of my image that I'll push my way into the higher end of the crowd. So we just follow you around and make you look good? * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "We are there to add weight to her importance, by matter of being pretty, well-dressed, quiet, and numerous." Yes. * LadyMallet nods again. "I think I understand." * LadyRoyal nods. * LadyNightshade lets out a visible sigh of relief. Now, there should be a few people there who know what I really am, and will be able to infer what you are as well. --mm? ...should we then come up with alternate names to use? Or can these people be trusted enough not to look too deeply into names that are used? They may take a more... obsequious approach to me, and you as well. Be friendly, don't confirm or deny anything. Right. * LadyMallet frowns, and ponders that. * Lord_Darkmoon gives a nod that is almost a bow. "As you say, Ishikawa-san." I would suggest giving only your first names, and to try avoiding that. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. And then... there's the real job. If anyone tries to hijack the carrier, I expect you to... deal with it. Right. Yes, ma'am. If there's a Ningyo situation, I'll take point, and you finish off any fish I bring down. ...er. Right... I presume we should attempt to maintain as low a profile as possible, even should we need to...handle...something? You remember the hot springs, right? It'll be harder for me on a boat, but if they don't bring too many we can deal. All right. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "Of course." Well... low profile is good, but I'm more worried about outcomes than methodology. * LadyRoyal nods. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "Thank you for the clarification, sempai." Do you have any other questions? * LadyMallet eyes Darkmoon for a moment. * PrincessSqueegee steers the SUV down an offramp. If we're supporting you in combat, what's your style? Uh... I push water away. Without water underneath them, Ningyo are more or less helpless. I don't have a direct offensive power, though. I was able to slay one with a simple sword-thrust when it was thus grounded. ... that weak? Well, he did decapitate it. But it wasn't dodging either. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "As Ishikawa-sempai says." And... Mallet? Try not to dent the aircraft carrier any more than it already is. What do we do if we can't stop it? * LadyRoyal glances at Leena. "Also, just a note--Maya told me I should let you know that during this mission, I'm to speak for her, and make sure that her prior orders remain in place." * LadyMallet grumbles. "I do have -some- self control." * Lord_Darkmoon raises an eyebrow at Minami's declaration, but does not otherwise react. ... er. Your advice is appreciated, sempai. * PrincessSqueegee pulls into a small, brightly-lit parking lot. You realize that it is right on the northern edge of the Universal Shipbuilding lot which you are so acquainted with. It's gonna be weird to not be sneaking into this place... * LadyNightshade looks rather visibly nervous. If things go all to hell... well, find me, and we'll all jump over the side together. But the front door is the easiest and the least suspicious. Excellent. We'll have a merry little suicide party. ... if things go all to hell, I'll be right there giving them hell back. Yes, Sempai. At least it's cleaner than seppuku. ...please do not say that, Minami-san. Hey, now. I should be able to get us out of the bay, if I haven't burnt too much energy already. I meant logistically speaking, Rinada. San. ...point. Well, that's a more cheerful thought, then. * Lord_Darkmoon does another bow-like nod. ... if they're after the nuclear stuff, I'm not going to give them any quarter. The rock does not fall, and does not sink. * PrincessSqueegee parks the car, and gets out. * LadyRoyal stifles a yawn, and follows Squeegee out. * LadyNightshade climbs out and looks around. There's a group of well-dressed people waiting mostly silently around a couple of large helipads. A few US Navy personnel are standing around, looking bored. Everyone else just looks sleepy. * LadyNightshade takes her coat off and tosses into the back of the SUV. * LadyMallet hops out, landing just as daintily as before. * LadyRoyal , having squinted around this area with binocs just recently, only glances here and there to make sure nothing's gone crazier. * Lord_Darkmoon climbs out as well, and moves to stand near the Princess, looking pretty and lackey-like. * LadyRoyal flanks Squeegee on the opposite side from Darkmoon. * LadyMallet takes up one of Darkmoon's sides. * LadyNightshade feels rather uncomfortable with herself but tries really hard not to show it. ... not many morning people here. * LadyNightshade puts on the best smile she can muster. I can't believe Mitsuko still made me train this morning... I thought you trained every morning? Even the top crust don't get up this early, Leena. I still did my workout this morning... * LadyRoyal mutters. "Perks." Especially the top crust don't get up this early. * Lord_Darkmoon laughs a bit. "I didn't do mine. But I almost overslept, and then had to rush to feed the Pets." * Guy looks up and sees the group approaching. * LadyNightshade stays near the back of the group trying to hide herself behind everyone. Maya-chan! You got an invite too? * LadyMallet struts the strut, keeping pace a bit behind Squeegee. * PrincessSqueegee flushes with anger, though it's hard to see in the artificial lighting. * LadyRoyal walks easily and confidently, noting the guy and Squeegee's reaction. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles in a professionally friendly way in the guy's general direction, walking like he belongs exactly where he is and knows it along beside and slightly behind 'Maya-chan'. * LadyNightshade keeps her smile on almost like she's not actually paying attention to what's being said. I sent some money their way a few weeks ago, and they seem to have appreciated it, Osawa-san. Oh! Then maybe I should do the same. Considering... you certainly seem to have anticipated events again. * LadyMallet shifts placement to a bit closer to Osawa-san, subtly changing her posture to of careful watchfulness of him. *dryly* I'm just lucky that way. * LadyRoyal remains in flanking position, but doesn't react as he doesn't seem to be a direct threat. * PrincessSqueegee turns her back to the man and begins to chat with Leena about school trivialities. * Guy gets the hint. * Lord_Darkmoon unfocuses his smile from the man and makes it more general for the room. He listens idly to the trivial chat. When he's gone, Squeegee snarls "Pig," under her breath. * LadyRoyal mutters back. "That good, eh?" * LadyMallet keeps up her part of the chat, then blinks largely at Squeegee. "So, what's his deal?" * LadyNightshade scans the crowd of that are here. Dumb lower-house first-termers think they're hot stuff. And there's the problem with being young and female in this business. Ah. Right. Ah. They just don't recognize your aptitude or brains. So it's their own dumb fault when you feed them their words. * LadyRoyal snorts. "Just want to look good, that's all. Nothing to do with that." The crowd is a real mix. About sixty people are standing around - lots of men in suits, and with them are young assistants, many of which are female and a little underdressed. Taki's garb is not the most provocative here by any stretch, though Leena's is maybe the most formal-event. * Lord_Darkmoon takes in the people, their outfits (and almost lack-thereof), and surroundings with a calmly smiling expression that seems to indicate he is quite happy, though not ecstatic, to be here. ... so much for professional beauty. Well, they'll get it one day, especially if Her Majesty has her way. Maybe we should have gone for professional slutty if we wanted to fit it? * LadyRoyal looks neutral. So very, very neutral. Not in the role I'm introducing you as. Probably for the best. There's a sudden surge of noise, and you realize that the transport helos have arrived as you've been talking. They settle onto the pads, and the Navy guys start checking ID's and letting the guests board. * LadyRoyal looks over. Shiny. * LadyMallet looks at the helo's. Oooooh. * PrincessSqueegee hands out invitation cards to everyone in the group. * LadyRoyal takes hers. "Thank you." * LadyMallet accepts it with a light bow, then takes a look at it. * LadyNightshade looks down at her card. The card is less pretty and more covered with anti-counterfeiting measures than you'd expect. * LadyRoyal taps it curiously, then twirls it in her hand almost instinctively, not dropping it. Hey, it's a card. What d'you expect? Now, none of you have weapons on you, right? * LadyMallet tucks the card away. ... well, not exactly 'on' me. You notice the metal detectors the guests are passing through. * LadyNightshade quirks an amused eyebrow at it before looking back up and the helos checking out the security with them. No. I'm...not in a position to need to. I've got one on call, and the other is being worn untransformed. So it's not exactly here. That's handy. Mm. Isn't it? I've been transformed long enough, and had to change my looks transformed enough, I think I'm starting to get the hang of ... messing with it, for lack of a better term. * PrincessSqueegee hands her card off to the security staff, strides through the detector, and heads for a helicopter. * LadyRoyal follows. ...I doubt my Fan will make it through without being detected, but it's not a weapon, per se. * LadyMallet takes her card out as they approach, and shows it off, winking cutely at the one checking it. * LadyRoyal calls from the other side, "Just hand it to them, then." * Lord_Darkmoon hands his card to the security, and puts his fan in the little bowl for such things, and steps through. And reclaims his fan on the other side. * LadyMallet struts through. Strut. * LadyRoyal gets into the helicopter with Squeegee. The man checking belongings smirks at the slightly girly item. * Lord_Darkmoon looks askance at the man with a raised eyebrow, but does not otherwise challenge him. He's not worth it. * LadyNightshade hands over her card and moves over to the scanning guy. There being no serious problems with security, everyone gets in the helo. It's noisy. Very noisy. Getting in, the downdraft does interesting things to Taki's skirt. * LadyNightshade looks out the window lazily like she's daydreaming. Or looking for possible attackers. * LadyNightshade blushes heavily and covers herself up, rushing into sit down. * Lord_Darkmoon assists the girls into the helicopter. If they let him. And pointedly does not ogle Taki's skirt's acrobatics. * LadyMallet jumps into the helo again. Easier than trying to walk into it in her dress. * LadyNightshade grumbles. "I hate you guys so much..." * LadyMallet giggles. "I -told- you to make up your own mind." * LadyRoyal yells over the helicopter noise. "Yeah, but are you surprised, considering who you told to buy you stuff?" The helo lifts off. It feels like a wobbly elevator, and most everyone gasps at the sensation. * Lord_Darkmoon does not respond to Royal's comment. And instead watches out the window. * LadyMallet grabs on tight to Darkmoon as it takes off. * LadyRoyal wasn't talking to Darkmoon anyway, so nyah. :P Man... this feels like jumping through that window, except in reverse. * Lord_Darkmoon chuckles. "Slightly safer, too, I imagine." * LadyNightshade doesn't hardly notice the movement. I dunno... I'd have a better chance surviving the dive than if this came down. The eastern sky is beginning to brighten, particularly as you get out over the bay and out of the city haze. The helo turns south, and flies at what you think is a couple hundred meters above the water. * LadyRoyal looks out the window as well. You can see several other flights of helicopters which seem to have departed from other locations, all flying south over Tokyo Bay. Beautiful, from up here. Mm. ... all this water. * LadyMallet makes a fist. "It'll be purified of the Ningyo eventually." Two thirds of the surface of this planet is water, Leena. I don't think we will ever see the end of the Ningyo. There's a leader. We might see an end to the conflict, though. There's a way to end it. And end it I will. ...now there's something to think about. So we might. * PrincessSqueegee glances away. * LadyRoyal glances at Leena at the word "I". * Lord_Darkmoon leans his head against the window. "If I could free her from this..." he mutters, trailing off into a sigh. What's more... their leader is somehow tied to the assassins. We'll follow the trail all the way back, eventually. It's about ten minutes before you see several grey silhouettes looming on the bay below. At first you think that you have arrived, but then the small shapes just slowly grow larger and larger. The largest one turns out to be the carrier, and it takes five more minutes until you are hovering just off to its side, waiting for your turn to land on its deck. * LadyMallet looks over the boat. Whee! * Lord_Darkmoon whistles impressedly at the size of it. All of you have seen larger supertankers before, but none of you has ever been so close. It's BIG. * LadyNightshade is already checking out the security on the boat. * LadyRoyal looks it over, as well as the ones around it. * LadyMallet checks out the other boats, too. Taki has a hard time picking out the security staff until the helo descends more and she can make out that there are a few dozen men standing around with slung rifles. The other boats appear to be a destroyer, a missile cruiser, and some sort of support ship which has no visible weapons. A few smaller boats are also around, mostly harbor tugs. The helo swoops down to the deck, and everyone jumps out, encouraged to rush by the crew. The helo takes off to make room for the next one, then angles off to the northeast and the airfield at Kisarazu. * PrincessSqueegee is smiling slightly. "That was sort of fun." * LadyNightshade makes sure her dress stays put this time. Yeah... And looks quite silly doing so. * LadyNightshade looks down as she realizes she actually agreed with the Princess on something. * LadyRoyal maintains her flanking position next to Squeegee as she looks around. A man hops out of the next chopper to land, spots the Princess, and runs over to greet her. As he approaches, he is recognized. * Lord_Darkmoon runs his Tessen over his hair, which oddly seems to work to re- comb it, and resumes his position near the Princess. Ishikawa-san! Ishikawa-san! * LadyMallet takes up point next to Squeegee. * PrincessSqueegee turns back, and smiles gracefully as he comes to a halt next to her. * Lord_Darkmoon turns his generic smile in the man's direction, but it turns briefly sickly before he manages to convert it to a carefully neutral expression. He tries to be unobtrusively a part of 'Ishikawa-san's' retinue. * LadyNightshade smiles and looks around still scanning the crowd although she looks like she's just childishly curious. Ishikawa-san, it's so good to finally meet you! * LadyRoyal smiles politely. Please, just Maya. I wanted to ask... *he suddenly looks distracted* ...to ask... um. * LadyRoyal raises an eyebrow curiously. * Seishou-san turns to Leena. "Excuse me, do I know you from somewhere?" * LadyMallet nods politely to Seishou-san, but doesn't say anything. * Lord_Darkmoon glances sideways at Leena, very briefly. Then goes back to watching the exchange nonchalantly. She's a student I'm sponsoring, I'm sure you haven't. * LadyRoyal doesn't react. * LadyMallet smiles at him. "I'm afraid not. If you had, then you would be recognized by me. Unless you hang around high schools, I don't think that's likely. It just seems like I've run into you in some odd situation... well, it doesn't matter. It is a pleasure to meet you, though. *she bows politely* Maya, I was hoping to find you today. You invested in us before we got this contract... right? Do you have some sort of line in on Navy logistics? * LadyNightshade continues looking around with wide eyed curiosity, bowing when she's supposed to. Oh, no! *chuckles* I just got lucky, again. * Lord_Darkmoon listens, perhaps just a little too intently. Just a protege trying to learn, honest. Are you sure? We'd be... very grateful if you have information to share. No, no, not at all. Someone brought your company to my attention, that's it. I looked, and decided to put my money here. ...you're too lucky, Maya. * Seishou-san 's smile slips a little, and everyone begins to notice just how tense he looks. * Lord_Darkmoon 's eyes slide away from the man, and he carefully does not change his expression. Just doing my job, Seishou-san. * LadyMallet raises an eyebrow, but stays silent. * Seishou-san has been walking up the deck with the group towards the folding chairs set out for the ceremonies. As you move towards the bow of the ship, you begin to feel a strange thrumming coming from the metal deck. It is shaking back and forth, enough to worry you, but not fast enough to be audible. As you look past the podium to the very front of the ship, you think you can see it vibrating a half-meter horizontally. Wow. What happened to this ship? * LadyRoyal glances around to see if this should be expected. * LadyNightshade doesn't shift appearance as she continues to look around like a curious kid. ... whoa. * Lord_Darkmoon looks almost gratefully at the distraction--er, the shaking of the ship. Something really tore up the bow below the waterline. They haven't figured it out yet. But when it's under power, even at one-third speed like now, you can see the hydrodynamic problems. We're not gonna sink, are we? They're afraid to send it across the ocean, which is why we got this deal. Well, it shouldn't, but stuff like this can be unpredictable if it causes resonance. * LadyMallet frowns. She starts to say something, but bites her lips. ...hm. * Lord_Darkmoon nods in absent agreement. I hope not. That'd mess up my dress. *pouts* But it's come a thousand kilometers to this port. It shouldn't, in the little farther we have to go. That would be unfortunate for all of us, financially. * LadyMallet glances at Darkmoon momentarily, then nods herself, looking over the edge and out into the sea. * Seishou-san nods, but doesn't look like he quite agrees. Pardon me. I must go take my spot on the stage. It has been good to meet you. All of you. * LadyNightshade bows respectfully and stuff. * Lord_Darkmoon bows politely in acknowledgement and farewell. A pleasure. *bows* * Seishou-san stops trying to smile even before he turns away. * LadyRoyal bows. Thank you for your time, sir. I wonder if the President is going to be here... Which President? The US one. *choke* No way. Yeah... Probably not. That'd be cool though. ...yeah. I guess. If we saved the President from an attack... Imagine it... I bet we'd get a medal. But we do have the president of Hitachi-2osen, and the Prime Minister. And... *looks around* just about all of the leadership of the Diet. * Lord_Darkmoon watches the man who left go to the stage, and a brief look of worry crosses his face before he turns his attention back to the group. Did you see the size of those guns? This thing is cool. ..mmm. * LadyMallet nods. "Vulnerable, though." * Seishou-san climbs the few steps to the temporary stage, and sits next to another well-dressed man and whispers something in his ear. ... you think they'll let us play with it if we save it? Probably not. ...no, Leena-san, they will not. *almost whispered* Figures. Maybe if you don't save it by sinking it. Hey, it's a form of saving it! Saving it from capture! The man, who is a very stentorian 50 years old, munches on a lit cigar, and answers back. Where Seishou-san looks queasy now, this guy looks excited. Ssst, Leena. Not so loud. Some of these people don't look like they have senses of humor. * LadyRoyal eyes the guards. ... .. Right. * PrincessSqueegee gestures at the rows of folding chairs. "Let's sit down, the ceremonies are going to start in a second." * LadyMallet takes a seat, looking distracted. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, and heads over to the chairs, waiting by them for the women to sit down, then seating himself last. * LadyRoyal takes a seat, looking around. * LadyNightshade sits with the group looking over at the guards and their guns. The sound of helicopters landing behind you has subsided, and what's left is a continuous creaking, stretching noise coming from the ship as it strains forward despite the damage. * LadyNightshade looks over at the guards. "If we didn't get shot at all the time, it'd be really cool to see real guns in person like this." Yeah. Heh. Sakura is rubbing off on you. This is an impressive formal event. * LadyMallet flashes an all-too-cheery grin at Squeegee. "More than you think." * LadyNightshade blushes at the mention of Sakura and rubbing. I hope it progresses smoothly, with only surprises for those who wish ill. Problem is, that's their hope, too. It is that. There are more than four hundred chairs set out on the deck, and all of them are filled with important and beautiful people. News crews are situated to the back-left, and a group of Navy officers in dress uniform are on the stage opposite the corporate lords and the Prime Minister. * Lord_Darkmoon is sitting with perfect, straight-backed posture in his chair, the picture of young gentility. He's not even touching the backrest. * LadyRoyal is sitting properly, but unlike Darkmoon, doesn't look like a wooden soldier. * Lord_Darkmoon almost looks like he's missing something - a katana really should be at his hip to complete this image. But that'd never fly on a US Naval vessel, so the Tessen in his lap will have to do. * LadyNightshade sits like a Japanese teenage girl is supposed to sit. An admiral stands and takes the microphone. He welcomes everyone (in English, but there is a good translator for those who do not understand), and goes on to speak of how disaster can bring tighter friendships, and how this may become standard practice, and yadda yadda yadda. It's all quite boring... except that as he speaks all of you become aware of a slight twinge of Sea Magic in the background. * LadyRoyal frowns and looks around surreptitiously at first. * Lord_Darkmoon watches the man who greeted 'Ishikawa-san' - and the others on the stage, but mostly him - throughout the speech, for reactions. * Seishou-san looks increasingly worried, almost panicky. The man beside him, who seems to be his boss, has a huge grin on his face. * LadyRoyal starts frowning a little deeper. * Lord_Darkmoon grips his Tessen more tightly, though that's the only visible change in his carefully expressionless facade. * LadyMallet starts looking around, trying to trace the sensation. * LadyNightshade still looks young and curious, keeping her eyes moving, scanning the crowd. There is polite applause as he finishes. The Prime Minister then stands, and gives roughly the same speech in Japanese. It's sort of hard to create an original monologue about a subject like this, though he does work in some bits on how this illustrates the recovering Japanese economy. The PM gets more applause, but the extra noise is mostly from members of his own party who jump to their feet and whoop enthusiastically. The Sea Magic... just feels closer. * LadyNightshade applauds cheerfully when she's supposed to. * LadyRoyal twitches a little and scratches her arm, applauding as appropriate. * Lord_Darkmoon reaches into his jacket pocket, and pulls out a pair of dark, wrap-around sunglasses. Which he puts on. * LadyMallet drops her voice, almost whispering. "Well, those of them who know about us... looks like we'll only confirm they're suspicions shortly enough." * Lord_Darkmoon stiffens a bit, as his expression softens. Those who've worked with him before recognize the look from when he's borrowing animals. In fact, he's trying to find some sea-life to use, to try to locate this Sea magic's source via something aquatic's senses. * Lord_Darkmoon finds a fish, and swims it off in the direction of the sensation. As Darkmoon searches, the President of Hitachi-2osen stands up and takes the microphone. Where the previous two speakers were dry and perfunctory, his style of speaking as he talks about the glorious future of US-Japan relations and his own conglomerate is enthusiastic and charismatic. He paces the stage, gesticulating with his cigar, and begins to even get the crowd excited a little. * LadyMallet puts on a static, semi-cheerful smile for the speaker, pretending to be interested, instead of distracted. * LadyMallet does glance at Squeegee, though. * PrincessSqueegee slouches a little, and yawns. * Lord_Darkmoon flinches, and grabs his head in pain. Then seems fine, as he takes off the sunglasses. He leans over to whisper in Squeegee's ear. * LadyNightshade leans over to Squeegee and asks "You want me to sneak around below deck and see if anything is going on?" ... not fussed at all about it. Is she not worried...? This is supposed to be a big deal... The speech continues, as the speaker becomes even more excited. * LadyRoyal glances at Darkmoon in concern. * LadyMallet shakes her head, and tries to return her attention to the speaker. No, Taki, *don't* piss off the Americans. They won't see me... You can't be sure. ... And there's too much to search. Best to stick on the safe side, probably... ...oi. * PrincessSqueegee snaps her head around to look at Rinada. * LadyNightshade sits back and tries not to sulk. ... I'd worry more about Mr. Cheerful. * Lord_Darkmoon meets the Princess's gaze. "She might know we know," he says, softly. "A fish died." They probably sensed your magic. Shit, those are bad odds. What? * LadyMallet blinks at Squeegee and Darkmoon. "... oh, my." Rinada hijacked a fish, and found a bunch of Ningyo. Including a ranking one. The crowned one worries me the most. She slew my fish with no more than a gesture. ... * LadyMallet *hisses*. "HER." ... Ssst! Can we even fight that many? I don't know. * LadyRoyal tries to look as neutral as possible, glancing around for possible eavesdroppers. "We'll have to do what we can, I guess. Ishikawa-san, we can't call for backup, can we?" * LadyMallet shrugs off Royal's reprimand. She does drop her voice again, though. "Got a number?" We could call Sakura... ... all we got is Haruko. No one else is close. Who could do what? No, this is our fight, unfortunately. Anyone would have to be flown here, which would make for too many questions. * Speaker finishes with a verbal flourish. "So today, we celebrate, for tomorrow is glorious! Thank you! Thank you all! And..." *in English* "...thank you Navy!!!" * LadyNightshade swallows uncomfortably. Mm. Damn it. * LadyRoyal applauds politely. * Speaker grins, teeth bared, bows, and retreats to his seat. * LadyMallet stands up, and applauds heavily. * LadyNightshade applauds absent-mindedly. The applause is more universally enthusiastic this time, though some in the audience shake their heads at the lack of dignity. The translator speaks up from his secondary microphone. "The crew of the USS United States has prepared an authentic American-style breakfast for everyone, which you are welcome to. You may also explore the deck of the ship for the next half hour, but please do not leave the deck or venture closer than ten meters to the edge of the deck. The smell of sausage and pancakes and eggs wafts up from behind the seating as the ship cooks finish setting up. Well... ...we'd probably better eat something. This is going to get hectic. Sempai. * PrincessSqueegee stands. "I agree." ...hn. * LadyMallet sniffs. "... I'm not sure I'm hungry. There's something in the air causing me to lose my appetite." I am. Something salty in the air, eh? * Lord_Darkmoon heads towards the buffet lines. ... Do we have to eat? I do have a hankering for fish, though. I... ate before I left. Of course not, Taki. * LadyMallet grins ferally. Heheh. The Sea Magic seems even closer, though it certainly isn't the intensity you would associate with multiple Ningyo. Maybe it's because you're at sea? I think I'll just grab something and--walk around, I suppose. See the sights. Don't go too far. ...it took 15 minutes for me to find them. We should try to stay somewhat together. Mm. You can see a few people walking towards the bow, but unable to get within thirty meters of it - the shaking makes it impossible to stand. * LadyNightshade looks around the crowd, putting on her curious face again. Although it's a bit more strained now. * LadyMallet wanders off- to the shakiest part of the ship, fascinated. * Lord_Darkmoon eventually gets some pancakes and sausage, which he eats without adornment while wandering the deck. * LadyRoyal stands in line, grabs like a sausage biscuit or something, and walks around. * PrincessSqueegee heads back to the food, and finds pancakes. She gets one, then can't figure out what to do with it. She ends up wrapping it around a couple of sausages. * LadyMallet goes farther and farther, seeing how far she can go before falling, in high heels. * LadyNightshade grabs uh... juice? * Lord_Darkmoon notices, and joins the Princess after a bit. And shows her how pancakes are supposed to be stacked. * LadyNightshade sips it as she wanders off, making a face at how sweet it is. * LadyRoyal notices Mallet and follows her, thinking maybe she's seen something. Nice view, eh? Anything catch your eye? Leena is particularly disadvantaged by her light weight and long dress. She gets no closer than anyone else, and is bounced to her butt in an undignified fashion. Sempai, shouldn't we form some sort of plan? There must be something we can do to...level the playing field, as it were. * LadyRoyal O_os and helps Leena up. * LadyMallet 'umfs' and gets up, accepting the help. She rubs her but. "The floor." * LadyRoyal whispers in Leena's ear as she does so. "Are you getting something from this area?" * LadyNightshade scans the guards and security as she walks around. Heh. I do not know, Rinada. * LadyMallet shakes her head, and grins a little apologetically. "Wanted to see how far I could get, is all. ^_^;" Ah, okay. * LadyRoyal looks forward, eyes narrowed. "Hmmm..." If I had an idea how they plan to go about this, we might be able to set up a way to counter it. * LadyRoyal takes a few experimental steps in her pants and sensible flats! XD ...should I try again? I don't know that I could get any closer...but... No, I'd rather you were all-the-way here. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, slowly. "I... we should target the leader, first, I think. If only there was a way to warn everyone here without..." * LadyRoyal doubletakes as she looks out to sea, hisses, and peers. * LadyRoyal goes back to Leena and mutters. "Two at the surface. About a kilometer ahead. They were looking our way." ... they can sense us, probably. Mm, I wouldn't be surprised. ...I wonder, though, that they surfaced. What if someone else sees them? We know they're coming, they know we're coming. ... hm. Alert the missile boat. Get someone on the guns here... This isn't exactly our ship. ... Oh, to what I said. Never mind. The ship shudders forward, slowly closing the distance to where Mina saw them. Except they have dived back under the surface... * LadyRoyal glances nervously back out to sea. "Let's go tell Sq--Ishikawa-san about this." ... yeah. * LadyRoyal heads back to the others. * LadyMallet treks back to Spongeskirt. * LadyRoyal taps Squeegee's elbow discreetly. "Ishikawa-san?" Yes, Minami? We were looking around, and I saw a couple of them at the surface. About a kilometer--well, less than a kilometer now--ahead. They're gone back down now, but I wanted to alert you about it. Then this could happen at any moment. Mm. * PrincessSqueegee begins to look worried. * Lord_Darkmoon snaps his Tessen open and closed, and grips it like the weapon it is. ... quick plan is you disable them, and we coup de grace them as fast as we can, ne? They're up to something more than just an attack. The President of the company wouldn't risk his life in this. Would he? ...yeah, I guess? That's a...lot of them to disable, though... ... well, they'll have to come up on deck. No matter what they do. ... unless they just plain sink the ship. * LadyRoyal winces a little at that. Well... that guy strikes me as being entirely too confident for his own health. But if he's been negotiating, maybe he has a backdoor out. If they come up, we take em down. Simple as that. ... dunno about them just sinking it, though. I could make an air barrier around the ship, but that would be very hard to maintain, and... might sink the ship anyway. * LadyMallet frowns. "Or how many directions they'll come from." Yeah. Can you do a better barrier if you only do a part? We might have the aid of the Americans with the guns, but that'd be suppression fire at best. They might come from just one approach... and yeah. The Americans... We're running out of time - do you think we should try to get their help? Their artillery ... won't do any good if we wait for them to jump us. * LadyRoyal scratches her cheek and looks out to sea, around at the other boats. * LadyRoyal responds absently. "Would they listen to you, is the question." It'll make a big difference if the Americans say hi with their big guns, though. We could use their help. Better safe than sorry, ne? ...ye-ess...if they listen to us in the first place. We should try, Ishikawa-san. If necessary, ... Or they might think we were in on it. And they might end up thinking we're a bigger threat than they are. * PrincessSqueegee points across the deck at the admiral. "Then let's do it. Now. * LadyNightshade wanders over to the group after checking out the guards. * LadyRoyal shakes her head. "Whatever you say, Ishikawa-san." * LadyMallet nods, and starts beelining- in a ladylike manner- to the admiral. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, sharply. "Shall we get more...properly dressed?" he asks, as he walks. No time. And ruin this outfit? I'll never have something this fancy ever again. Bite your tongue. What's going on? * Lord_Darkmoon holds up the Tessen meaningfully, but nods at the Princess's assessment. * PrincessSqueegee kicks off her heels and starts running. * LadyRoyal gives Darkmoon a slightly manic sort of grin, and-- * LadyNightshade runs after Squeegee, easily keeping pace. * LadyRoyal O_Os, but follows Squeegee, trying not to look too threatening... * Lord_Darkmoon keeps pace. * PrincessSqueegee skids to a halt short of the cluster of uniforms and grimaces. ...dammit, I *can't*. What? * Lord_Darkmoon halts behind her. "I can, Sempai." Do it. * LadyMallet stops behind Squeegee. "What...?" * Lord_Darkmoon nods, and heads forward, towards the Admiral. It's an Order related to our business interests. ...ack. * LadyMallet frowns, and flanks Darkmoon, following him. Shit. How good is his English? Well...let's hope Rin gets lucky then. ...er. I don't know. He doesn't sound that bad when he's quoting, but mine is crap, so I wouldn't really know. Not very good beyond parroting... * LadyRoyal looks at Taki. "You speak good English, right? Could you help him out?" ... I do. What do I say though? * Lord_Darkmoon is working his way forward as quickly as he can without alarming anyone. I don't know! What he asks you to? * LadyMallet calls back, "You too, Royal! Placement!" * Admiral looks up surprised, as the young guests intrude on his private conversation. ^Can I help you?^ * LadyNightshade catches up with Darkmoon smiling politely next to Darkmoon. * LadyRoyal frowns at Leena's yelling and looks around wondering who the crazy girl could have been yelling to, as she stays with Squeegee just in case. ...someone, please translate. Sir, I am Lord Darkmoon. You must get your men to their battle stations; there are Ningyo poised to attack this ship momentarily. *points out towards where the Ningyo are with his Tessen* The stage translator steps up to translate, but before he gets halfway through it starts to giggle. ^What?^ * Lord_Darkmoon eyes the man, and uses his Tessen to transform his clothes to his Lord uniform. Translate! There's no time! ...just about everyone's jaw drops, and the translator begins again, much more seriously. * LadyRoyal looks around, checking reactions. * LadyMallet frowns, watching everyone. * Lord_Darkmoon waits impatiently for the man to finish translating, watching the Admiral's reaction. * LadyNightshade looks much more professional than she's looked the rest of the morning. * LadyRoyal reaches into her pocket and pulls out a card, which may or may not have been there before, and starts fiddling with it. Force of habit. ^What are Ningyo?^ He's looking quite puzzled, but not quite concerned yet. * Lord_Darkmoon looks to the translator, gesturing for him to translate what the Admiral said, quickly. They're uh... sea creatures. They're trying to wipe out humanity. *broken English* The translator doesn't translate, but just jabbers back at the admiral himself. ^Mermaids - and hostile ones! Man your guns, now!" The group of officers begin to look amused once more but that ends... * Lord_Darkmoon looks between the translator and Taki, and back to the Admiral. Less than a kilometer ahead... it'll happen soon! They're in your direct path! * Lord_Darkmoon looks worriedly out over the water. ...as the deck of the ship visually *twists* at the bow, then flexes back the other direction sending a shock wave through the hull that throws everyone off their feet and smashes all equipment in sight. * LadyNightshade stumbles and tries her best to stay standing. * LadyRoyal reels back and tries to get a grip on something nearby that's not Squeegee's body. "FUCK." There's no time! * Lord_Darkmoon picks himself up quickly, and says, "Too late." * LadyMallet scrambles to her feet, and summons the Mallet ASAP, catching it out of midair. Aw, dammit! * Admiral attempts to stand, and begins screaming orders, then is thrown off his feet when the bow flexes once more. * PrincessSqueegee drops to all fours, and looks around wildly for Ningyo. She doesn't see any. Get everyone off the ship! * Lord_Darkmoon uses the Tessen to pull the gun out from under his sleeve, and aims it carefully, trying to find the first Ningyo to come into view. He carefully does not point it at the Admiral. * LadyMallet gets out of the immediate crowd, so she has some space. ...the hole in the bow. Did they go in there!? They're coming inside!? * LadyNightshade makes her way towards the front of the boat. * LadyRoyal goes as close to the rail as possible and looks around. * LadyMallet feels about with her senses for the Ningyo, making her way to the front of the ship again. Squeegee! *calling out as loud as he can over the crowd* Push any water in the boat OUT of it! With the third flex of the bow, the deck - six-inch-thick steel - cracks and splits a third of the way back down the runway. This is actually easier to keep one's feet through, but the noise of it is indescribable. ...right! * LadyMallet stops, and STARES. They're gonna sink it! ...come out, you little buggers. * PrincessSqueegee goes to her knees, and tries to concentrate. The bucking of the ship settles for a moment, then there's a surge of water on the port side of the ship and the whole front quarter of the ship splits away and falls into the sea. * LadyRoyal blinks, and looks around wildly. * LadyNightshade looks around for the president of the shipping company. Where's the head of 2osen? * Admiral is screaming now. ^LIFEBOATS! LIFEBOATS!^ * LadyMallet yells back at Squeegee. "SEAL OFF THE FRONT WITH ONE OF THOSE AIR THINGIES! TRY AND KEEP US AFLOAT!" I can't see it all! I can't seal everything! * LadyRoyal curses. Goddammit, what are they after!? Shit! *scrambles back as the front of the boat disappears in front of her. * LadyMallet runs back to Darkmoon. "Ask him where they keep their nuclear weapons!" Damn it, we should have kept someone on that bastard. ...I can't speak his language! The engines continue to drive the ship forward, even as that motion forces water into the hull. The ship begins to list to port. Where are they...? * LadyMallet growls. "I can make a shortcut down real quick, just WHERE!?" * LadyNightshade shouts at the general in her broken English ^Where are the nuclear weapons? We suspect they're after them!^ * Lord_Darkmoon runs to the front, what's left of it. And looks for malicious mermaids. * LadyRoyal sees if she can run belowdecks. Some motion on the starboard side of the deck catches your eye, and you see the President of Hitachi-2osen drag his assistant, Rinada's father, over the edge of the deck and plummet out of sight. FATHER! *looks frantically for where they went* * LadyMallet stares at the two for a moment, then tears her gaze away. "... we'll meet again, I just know it." Rin sees nothing but surging seas, pushed in unnatural directions by sea magic. * LadyRoyal sees and follows, yelling something vague. ...be alright. ...damn! * LadyMallet turns her attention back to Taki and the Admiral. "The nuclear weapons, where are they!?" * LadyRoyal continues trying to at least see what's going on downstairs. * LadyNightshade decides to stick with the Admiral and his group. The translator is long gone - the Admiral can't understand a thing. ^Sir. Do you have nuclear weapons on this boat?^ * PrincessSqueegee gives up her effort, and comes to her feet. Nightshade! Get him to stop this boat! ^THAT'S CLASSIFIED! GET TO A LIFEBOAT!^ * LadyMallet growls. "Fuck it." ^We suspect that's what they're after...^ * LadyMallet breaks into a run to the front of the ship. * Admiral pushes Taki towards stern of the ship, where lifeboats are launching. ^NO TIME! GO!^ * LadyNightshade holds her footing. ^Sir! This could cost more lives that the ones on this ship!^ Squeegee, we need your help if we're going to stop them. They must be inside it by now. * Admiral sprints for the bridge tower/ * LadyNightshade follows after the Admiral. *bitterly* Why, so they can sink with it? So the Ningyo don't get their hands on its contents! Stop the Ningyo, not the Americans! ^Is there some way we can destroy them before they can take them?^ * LadyRoyal gives up and rejoins the group * PrincessSqueegee screams as loud as she can, so everyone can hear. "WE'RE LEAVING! THAT'S AN ORDER!" * LadyMallet keeps heading for the front, jagged edge of the ship. Not listening to Squeegee. La la la. Come -on- Princess. We need you on this. *flinches under that order, and tries to resist...but gives in finally* --damn you. * LadyRoyal grits her teeth. Fuck... * LadyRoyal yells after Leena. "GET BACK HERE RIGHT NOW!" YOU ARE *NOT ALLOWED* TO KILL YOURSELF FOR THIS! * LadyNightshade looks over at the Princess and back to the retreating Admiral. ONCE THEY'RE GONE! I'M NOT LETTING THEM GET THEIR HANDS ON A NUKE! Princess, this is important! Please, reconsider! We... need to stop them... *whimpers* * Lord_Darkmoon is running towards her. "Our job is to protect Ladies. And their job is to protect humanity. This is both! WE MUST TRY." I can't stop the ship from sinking! It's a lost cause. * LadyRoyal growls, whether at the Order or at Leena is unclear. Keep the water out of it, and help us kill them, then! If you don't come with me right now, you *will* die. BETTER THAN A CITY! If you help her, help us, she may not. DON'T GIVE ME THAT PRINCESS BULLSHIT! I WON'T IGNORE INNOCENT PEOPLE DYING! YOU CAN'T SAVE THE SHIP! YOU CAN'T! It's not the ship, PRINCESS. It's stopping the Ningyo from getting what they want from it! ^Admiral, you NEED to destroy the nukes! Please!^ * LadyNightshade starts running over to where Squeegee is, mostly against her will. ^Please, go to the lifeboats.^ Dammit. Darkmoon? Can you cut through this deck with anything your tessen can pull up? ^Sir, you can save lives! You have to try!^ * LadyNightshade looks at Squeegee as she runs up to her. "So. Let's run away." * LadyMallet starts slowing, and slowing, on her way to the edge. She finally stops, turns around and gives Squeegee a GLARE of DEATH, and starts running back. ^What the fuck do you think I'm doing?^ * Admiral disappears into the bridge superstructure. * Lord_Darkmoon grits his teeth, but, seeing all his Ladies following the Order, accompanies the Princess off the ship. ... ...damn it. Taki, come on. I think he's going to... Yeah. Yeah. Best we get out of here. The ship is listing almost forty degrees to port now. Squeegee leads everyone to the port edge of the deck behind the superstructure. * LadyMallet keeps the Mallet out- it'll come in handy as a floater, at the very least. I will listen to your criticism later. Right now, we jump. I'm going to do something fancy. ...right. Less talk, more action! * LadyRoyal glances around to make sure everyone's there. * LadyMallet doesn't waste a second or slow down- she keeps at speed, running, and simply jumps over. People are spilling over the edge. A few lifeboats have been launched, and more are being dropped in the water. * LadyNightshade sighs as she follows the group. * PrincessSqueegee drops over somewhat more gracefully. * Lord_Darkmoon waits for the others to go first, then follows. I hate water. * LadyRoyal drops over like a think that drops over boats. She's no Kyouko. * LadyNightshade jumps. (*thing) * PrincessSqueegee settles into a praying gesture as she falls... and the waters below you suddenly part. * LadyMallet shifts position on the way down, to where she's standing on the Mallet, riding it down, and holding onto the handle for dear life. * LadyRoyal just falls, man. Falls. The group falls into the new hole in the ocean, as the sea level below them plunges at just a slower rate than their falling speed. * LadyMallet falls with style, and with a massive piece of wood between her legs. They hit the surface slowly, then are centered in the column of air by the swirling waters. It's hard for them to judge how fast they are descending now, but they think it is slowing. * Lord_Darkmoon treads water. "Impressive." He has lost all tones of respect, though he at least seems genuine in his appraisal of this trick. About a dozen random people are falling with them - a marine, a couple of sailors, and maybe ten guests. * LadyMallet has no clue what's going on- she simply tries to stay above water. @_@ * LadyNightshade is just along for the ride. God, she hates water. Suddenly, everyone finds themselves on dry - well, only slightly soggy - land. The column of air tents out around them, then begins to contract around them. Smaller and smaller... ... the hell? * Lord_Darkmoon stands, waiting with a look of impatience. * PrincessSqueegee opens her eyes and stands, and the column of air, six meters wide and many stories tall, stabilizes. * LadyNightshade looks around. * LadyMallet looks UP. ^Whoa.^ * LadyMallet is awed, and it shows in her voice. "... wow." ...huh. Now that's interesting. * LadyRoyal looks at Squeegee. "Now we just walk back, or what?" Shall we get back to land? Or will we now try to find the Ningyo that are doubtless now pillaging the ship at their leisure? There's a huge, sort of explosive noise from far above, and a dark shape begins descending through the water above them. ... well, they're bringing the ship to us. * Lord_Darkmoon looks up. "So it would seem." Oh shit. * PrincessSqueegee looks back, wild-eyed. "This is the part where we run." ...good plan! Then let's. Passage, please? Give me a second. I've got scuba gear stashed in my other outfit. ... I'm not gonna let them get away with this. * Lord_Darkmoon carefully does NOT address the Princess directly, just in case the non-MG's haven't figured out that she's not just one of them yet. Slim chance, but at least he can try to help her maintain cover. * PrincessSqueegee thinks for a moment, then starts heading west. The column - the WHOLE COLUMN - moves with her. * LadyRoyal runs! Just come, Leena! * LadyMallet blinks. "I said wait!" No, Mallet. It's over. *starts following Squeegee, getting slightly ahead, pretending to be leading* * LadyMallet panics for a moment, then starts keeping up with the column. * LadyNightshade follows the group, keeping pace and making sure everyone else does too. It's slightly uphill going towards shore, but everyone can see the dark shadow of the ship falling behind them. * LadyMallet narrows her eyes. "Well, so much for the nice clothes." * Lord_Darkmoon stalks forward, sword gleaming maliciously in what light there is. He doesn't say anything, though. It slides closer and closer... and with a weird hissing sound, part of the deck slices across the column, cutting off the light for a terrifying moment, then glides away to the south. * LadyRoyal winces, but continues. * PrincessSqueegee hisses, freaked out. * LadyMallet throws the Mallet away into midair, and detransforms- she suddenly loses the height from the heels, the hair's black, and she's in scuba gear, with her pistol holstered to one of her outer thighs. A rainbow lightshow later, she's back in her full MG uniform, plus the scuba gear. Before anyone says anything, she slips out of the cylinder and heads to the ship. Calm down, Maya. We're going to make it... ... FUCK! I can't make scuba gear. And we have these people with us. Mallet is on her own. * LadyRoyal can't possibly catch her, so looks around for something to throw, and since she can't find that, pounds her fists on her thighs. "That GIRL!" ...I don't know how long I can hold this column... do I stop? Don't. She made her choice. No. WE have to get them to shore. You've taken responsibility for these people. We go. *starts walking* ... If you can't we shouldn't force it... All right. (*starts walking towards shore*) * LadyRoyal hisses in another furious breath, and then calms down and continues. * PrincessSqueegee gets moving again, angrier than she's looked yet today. * Lord_Darkmoon takes a deep breath, and looks around at the other people with them. Making sure they're okay, able to keep pace, and aren't freaking out too much. The Americans have sort of an "I'm in Wonderland" look about them. The guests are scared out of their wits, but know to keep walking. It's silent for a half a minute as the group has slowed to a fast walk. * LadyMallet falls back into the column of air, 'eep'ing. And falls out the other side, since she's too high up- then back in, at a lower altitude. She hits the ground this time, feeling around frantically. "Aw, dammit! Dammitdammitdammit! 6 of em, incoming!" * LadyNightshade looks rather depressed as she thinks about Leena doing something so stupid. Leena! You fucking moron! * LadyNightshade has tears in her eyes now. ...FUCK. You can yell at me later! Ningyo, 6 of em! Leena, what the HELL did you--let's GO! Leena, if I wasn't so glad to see- ohshit. * LadyNightshade hits Leena upside the head anyway. * LadyNightshade looks behind her to see if she can see them. * PrincessSqueegee starts jogging again... then stops suddenly. * LadyRoyal runs, and skids to a stop to avoid running into Squeegee. "Wha--?" * LadyNightshade looks at the Princess, wiping tears from her face. Ningyo shapes are visible in front of the column, murky in the deep water. ...fuck. What the hell do we do? We can't fight here... The front of the column flexes inward slightly, and Squeegee grins. Wh-ohhh. But they can't blast us without coming in, either. ...you can hold them off. Let's go, then. Point. * LadyMallet starts, then stops. She holds up a hand, and her signature weapon comes to hand. She grips it, and stares at the murky shadows. Let's make sure the normals are all right. ...Leena. Don't even *think* about it. * Lord_Darkmoon starts walking forward, face dark and sword gleaming. "Do not fight; kill them if they enter. Otherwise, we just leave." * LadyMallet narrows her eyes. "... if it comes to it." * LadyRoyal tries to get people to follow and not go into a panic. * PrincessSqueegee starts walking forward once more. "Yeah. Mortals, to the middle. NOW. * LadyRoyal makes a face and mutters under her breath. "...*'mortals'*?" Again, the Americans are just ogling. The Japanese know what these are, and they don't argue. * LadyRoyal shoves the 'Merkins gently if they don't seem to be moving. ^Please stay towards the middle. We'll protect you.^ The first Ningyo swims up to the column, and tries to force her way in... and can't. She looks disappointed. * LadyMallet rips off the scuba mask angrily. "Dammit... didn't even get a chance to confirm what they were after." * Lord_Darkmoon continues walking forward, on point. * LadyRoyal doesn't turn around to address Leena, her voice cold. "We can discuss that later. With Maya. And Sakura." I don't think they got it in any case. And they don't look very happy about it either... * LadyRoyal continues walking once all the normals have started walking too. ... Another one backs off and makes a running... well, swimming start, and pops through the column about six feet in the air. Fuck! * Lord_Darkmoon turns towards it and takes aim with his gun, which is in his hands in a flash. It loses any water underneath it, though, and flops ungracefully to the ground. * LadyMallet swings the Mallet like a baseball bat, aiming to bat it right back out. "Leena Leena Mallet Air Strike!" She wasn't expecting the sudden sinker, and whiffs badly. * Lord_Darkmoon steps forward, and shoots it in the face. It's a bloody mess, but the Ningyo keeps thrashing. * LadyRoyal jerks, turns, and shoots a card at it reflexively. The card slices through a couple of arteries, and the fish bleeds out explosively. * Lord_Darkmoon turns towards the figures in the water, menacing them with his gun. "Go. Away." They aren't going away, though. You feel the Sea Magic thrum, and two of them inch through the column. These are making their own water fields, despite Squeegee's efforts. One is right in front of you, the other is to the left. * LadyRoyal frowns. "Ugh." Then die. *levels his gun, taking time to aim* Taki leaps at the Ningyo to the left, fists glowing pink and blurring faster than anyone can follow, including the Ningyo. The mermaid is pounded from the left, and the right, and from above... it wobbles, hurt, then its' water field is pushed away, leaving it helpless on the ground. * LadyNightshade lands without a word, ready to strike the other one. * LadyMallet just screams something guttural- and angry- mostly guttural- as she swings with the Mallet with both hands at the one on the right. She whiffs, but brings the Mallet around for another strike on the backswing. ...which is no better. The Ningyo laughs in her face. "Puny Ningen, this is our territory, and we will crush you! * LadyRoyal goes for the one on the left, letting out a flurry of cards. Shove it. I'm not in a mood to deal with your stupid speeches, you over-egoed dumb fish. * LadyRoyal mutters under her breath as she does so. "Say that to your dead friend over there." The side of the column is covered with explosions, and when they clear, the Ningyo isn't moving. That doesn't deter two more Ningyo from merging into the column from the right side. * Lord_Darkmoon , satisfied with his aim, calmly pulls the trigger at the Ningyo right in front of him. * Lord_Darkmoon says nothing, calmly putting the gun back up his sleeve after the shot passes by the Ningyo's right ear, not harming her in the slightest. The Ningyo smiles, and screams "Riptide!" Waters fly from the left and right, engulfing Darkmoon and a hapless guest behind him. Darkmoon is buffeted badly, and the old business man screams as his spine pops. ... no ... ...*damn* it! * LadyRoyal grits her teeth and tries to focus on the Ningyo. Darkmoon crumbles to his knees, shaken. * Lord_Darkmoon shivers, coughing up water. * PrincessSqueegee slows to a halt in order to concentrate harder. The Ningyo are pushed back a little bit, but rally. Nightshade strikes again! This time the Ningyo blocks a few more of her strikes, and is able to stand her ground. What the hell are you after? * LadyNightshade calls after she lands in a fighting stance, preparing to attack again. The Ningyo grimaces. "You." * LadyMallet growls again, raising the Mallet high over her head and bringing it down- she whiffs, but that doesn't stop her from pulling it back up and... ... spinning on her heel, swinging the Mallet like a bat. "Batter up!" The Ningyo takes it in the gut, and is blasted back out of the column, where it floats... somewhat limply. * LadyMallet relaxes her grip a little, and takes a deep breath, reassuring herself of her grip on her weapon. The two to your right cue up their own attacks. "Tidal Blast!" "Engulf!" The engulf attack tries to form around Leena, but is pushed right out of the column doing no more than making her hair wet. The tidal blast looks anemic, too, but stabs into the middle of the circle. Princess Squeegee is knocked off her feet, causing the column to first jog to the east, by a meter, then begin shrinking. * PrincessSqueegee groans, and tries to sit up. Darkmoon, help her! * LadyMallet spares a glance behind her, and curses. "Can you carry on?" * LadyRoyal curses and looks torn for a moment, but holds her hands up and lets out a flurry at the two floating together. * Lord_Darkmoon continues coughing up water. "E-ec-clipse..." he is interrupted by more coughing. Cards fly! Cards explode! Around Ningyo! And when the spray settles, both are still standing with their fields, but look quite beat up. Taki leaps over the Marine, who is still gawking, and lands a convincing flurry on one of the Ningyo. It pukes up something that looks kelp-y, and loses its water field, before falling backwards out of the tightening circle. * LadyMallet looks back at Squeegee, then at the Ningyo still in the column. "Why is it that every time I try to do something on my own it turns out bad?! Give me an answer or you die now!" * LadyMallet screams, "Too late!" And brings the Mallet screaming down at it... Well, the Ningyo doesn't quite die as it's hit, but its water field pops and rolls out of the circle. The Ningyo falls forward towards some guests... ...and the Marine, who finally has gotten his head around the idea that these cute mermaid girls are the bad guys, empties a full clip (yay full-auto!) into the fish, which promptly dies. * PrincessSqueegee moans again, and shakes her head. The column is only three meters across now, and getting crowded. * LadyMallet takes a moment to refresh her grip on the Mallet, looking warily around for the next target to show back up. ^Can anyone help her? *gestures at Squeegee* She's the only one keeping the water off of us!^ No more Ningyo are approaching the circle - in fact two are obviously swimming away. * LadyNightshade crouches down next to Squeegee. "Are you gonna make it?" * LadyRoyal goes over to Squeegee now that the immediate threat is gone and looks her over. A little application of first aid helps the Princess recover faster. Good thing too, as in a few moments someone would be stepping, uh, outside. * PrincessSqueegee looks around, and is able to push the column to a four meter diameter. ...we need to hurry - I'm running out of power. * Lord_Darkmoon pushes himself to his feet. "Then let's go." He starts walking again. * LadyMallet nods in agreement, tiredly. "... you're not the only one." * LadyRoyal nods. "Yeah..." * PrincessSqueegee trots westward once more. * LadyRoyal looks at the body of the businessman and tries to pick it up to bring with them. Why? Dunno. * LadyMallet tosses the Mallet away into midair, and trudges along. Can you carry him the whole way, Royal? *dispassionately* ...I'd appreciate a hand, but if you're still hurt, don't worry about it. Does he still live? He does, indeed, though his legs don't seem to be working. ... I'll take him. Don't strain yourself, Mallet. Assist Royal. Both of you carry him. ...all right. Thank you. * LadyRoyal carefully shifts him so that both she and Leena can do it. Be careful not to exacerbate his wounds, but hurry. * LadyMallet nods, and helps Royal. Trying for gently, and stable. * LadyNightshade offers a hand to Squeegee to help her walk. It's not too long of a trek to shore, though it is occasionally difficult as Squeegee wears down and can't dry the bottom of the column as well. Some stretches are a bit steep, too. * LadyRoyal starts walking, carefully, once she and Leena have him stabilized. ... I'm gonna take a nice long nap when we're back. And then... remind me not to do something so stupid again? * PrincessSqueegee takes Lady Nightshade's hand gratefully. ... it seems to slip my mind when there's a lot of Ningyo around. * Lord_Darkmoon keeps to point the whole way, and doesn't look back. We do every mission... * LadyRoyal takes a deep breath and tries not say anything too pissed off. "...mm. No comment." Soon enough, the column is only a meter high, and you can see the shore in front of you. Man, dry land has never looked so good... * PrincessSqueegee relaxes, and the short air column collapses. Then she collapses too, from exhaustion. * Lord_Darkmoon moves back to catch the Princess. I mean it! It's... it's my fault the Ningyo came. ... I'll probably hate this later, but... could you make that an Order, before I obj... * LadyNightshade catches Squeegee. * LadyMallet blinks impassively at Squeegee. ... before you pass out too. Wait... you brought them to us? She led them back to us. LadyNightshade> ... ... I caught their notice. I didn't mean to lead them back, but... The Order brought me back. I didn't want to, what with innocents with you... * LadyNightshade visibly shakes with angry as she drags Squeegee to the beach. * LadyRoyal shifts a little to rub her forehead. "At least you came back, okay? And we got rid of them." Enough. All of you. We need to get the wounded to the hospital. *nods to the man Leena and Royal are holding* Him, especially. * LadyRoyal nods. Who's got a working cell? * Lord_Darkmoon pulls out a cell phone, and dials the emergency number. * Marine claws his way out of the water, and looks back from the beach out to the ships in the bay. Several large chunks of carrier debris are smoking on the surface, and the cruiser, destroyer, and oiler are circling the scene. ^Holy shit, dude.^ [end session] [end Book 2: The Sea Will Shake]