Session Start: Sat Jun 04 15:25:04 2005 Previously, on Hunters: Ding dong the school is dead! Dead dead dead - which makes everything a lot more complicated. All of the Ladies that attended Takeuchi Memorial and many of their families have been evacuated around the bay to the Palace, and the normals are still piecing their lives back together, and figuring out where they should take classes now. The Hunters team has (mostly) moved into the Agency building. Rin wasn't a TM student, so she's staying in her old digs, and Mina is playing bait at her nearby home. ...Sakura hasn't arranged for tutors, yet, and it's not a really good idea for them to go out a lot, so the gang is just hanging around the Agency this afternoon while the Secretary and Mitsuko take a turn watching Mina's residence... [Tuesday, March 9, 2004 - 1555 local time] [Blossom Detective Agency] [Session Start] * Lord_Darkmoon knocks on the inner door to the living area, having let himself into the lobby upon discovering the Secretary's absence. * Taki flops on the couch and flips on the TV, having spent most of the day practicing her training. * Maya is playing what it probably the sixteenth or so game of solitaire, and looks to be winning handily. Once the knocking occurs, she glances over. "... who's there?" * LadyMallet is not still- she's busy running around with any combination of these three categories- clothes, her gun, and weapons magazines. *clears throat* Lord Darkmoon. Come in! The door is locked. ... Oh right. * Maya hesitates for a moment, then slowly rises and walks to the door. "... I got it." * LadyMallet pauses in her franticness, and glances down, then at Maya. * LadyMallet nods, mostly to herself, then resumes her franticness. * Taki goes back to flipping through channels, figuring she'd let Maya and Darkmoon talk. * Lord_Darkmoon is waiting on the other side of the door, dressed in a black shirt with a purple version of the rising sun image from the Japanese flag on it, and some black slacks. ... mn. * LadyMallet stops, and waves at Darkmoon. Her current combination includes her gun held in her mouth, wearing some white hotpants with sparkly red lace edging it, and a black, low-cut t-shirt. There's a magazine stuck in her waist, and a magazine, rolled up, held between Leena's chin and her chest. She 'mmphs', then runs over to the kitchen. Hello, Maya...-chan. *nervous* * Maya , having finally opened the door for Rinada. fidgets some. "... ah. H-hi, Rin." She in the usual overalls and funky t-shirt (this one's a unicorn!). I ... can we go somewhere? More private, please? I can leave. *stands up* Someone should probably go to the store sometime. * Taki heads for the door. .... eh? Taki, you sure? Yeah, don't worry about it. You two talk. * Maya sounds somewhere between concerned and perhaps a bit panicky. * LadyMallet emerges from the kitchen, just garbed in her previous outfit. "Hang up, Taki! I'll go with you!" * LadyMallet bounds after- and past Taki, heading for the door. "C'mon, hurry up!" * Lord_Darkmoon steps out of the way of the door to let the girls out. * Taki rolls her eyes at Leena. "See you two later." She closes the door and heads out. "Hey Leena wait up!" ... h-hey.. um... be careful, alright? * Maya takes a rather long time to wish the two well, then stays where she is, still fidgeting. * Lord_Darkmoon walks over to the couch and sits down, and watches Maya for a bit, his expression carefully unreadable. His posture says he's unsure, himself, how to proceed, though. ...I am sorry, Maya. I... You deserved to know, before... ... why? * Maya doesn't look up, or at Rin. "... that's my biggest question. Why?" ...I don't know. Or... that's probably not what you're asking, is it. Why did I... let this happen? I shouldn't have. It's not fair to you; you deserve better. But... I do...care for you. And wanted to... I don't know. ...I never wanted to hurt you. Please, if nothing else, believe that. I do. But... * Maya finally looks at Darkmoon. "... it just doesn't change that when I look at you, I know that behind the Earth Magic is a woman. That... I've never been so confused in all my life. See, I know you care, but... at the same time, why couldn't you have been honest?" I should have. I... I want to think I was going to... but then everything... and... but those are just excuses. I was-- I am still-- afraid. I don't know if it helps, but... Rin does not feel the same way that I do. She... wants to be your friend. But ... the woman in me does not want to be your boyfriend, Maya. So... the personalities are different for you, like with Leena? * Maya finally sits down on the couch, still looking more than a bit rattled. * Lord_Darkmoon shakes his head. "Leena's personalities are not different. Mine are...I am the same person. But... " he swallows, looking up to meet Maya's eyes, "I do feel different, when transformed, than when not. It's usually very subtle, but... in this case, it isn't." I do not think there are really any split personalities, other than those we force on ourselves. ...I'm not making any sense, am I. You do, somewhat. * Maya quickly looks down after a moment of eye contact. "This... it's still awkward. And even if there's this divide... you can't be Darkmoon forever." She pauses. "... well, yes. You can, but... do you really want to?" * Lord_Darkmoon sighs. "Before... I would have said I would never be Lord Darkmoon by choice, ever. When I first transformed, I was horrified. I was forced, Ordered, to participate in these wars. And later onto this Team. ...I've told you before that this Team is the first thing about being Lord Darkmoon I have not absolutely loathed." ... well, what can I say? We're not all raging idiots. Most of the time, anyway. * Maya laughs for a moment, but the smile that comes with it quickly fades. "... so confusing." * Lord_Darkmoon grunts, smiling just as fleetingly. This is not fair to you, Maya. Not at all. I feel...it's a very confusing emotion, when I think about you, while transformed. The thought of hurting you or of losing you hurts, being with you actually makes me glad to be Lord Darkmoon. Tuesday - a week ago tonight - was the first time I actually enjoyed being transformed. ...maybe this would be easier if I detransformed? I don't know how you'd feel about it, though. I don't know either, and that's what bothers me so. You don't know how much I wish I could just kiss you, and make this last Tuesday again. And how much it hurts to know you will not want that. Even stranger, when I'm Rin... I would not wish to kiss you. Or any other woman. * Maya rubs at her temples. "If it makes you feel better, do what you feel you must. As you are, detransformed, it doesn't matter." There's a moment of hesitation as she licks her lips. "... kiss. Do you remember our first kiss, Rin?" ... last week's, or the one you gave me in the hot springs? * Lord_Darkmoon is turning slowly but steadily red. Hot springs. I remember it. We made things... well, as official as they get with us. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, slowly. * Maya clasps her hands together. "I remember... feeling like I could deal with this stupid, crazy, deadly job. Just so long as I could remember that moment..." Then... you said we'd regret it, if we did not give this a try. And we agreed to.. to see where this would take us. Here we are, but... I would have told you, eventually. I owed it to you. If you want to continue seeing where this leads, I want to go with you, Maya. And...I still want your friendship, either way. You're a strong woman. Let me help you if I can, but do not let me take that away from you. No matter what, Rin.... no matter *what*, you will always be my friend. We've fought together, hurt together, laughed together. For me to throw that way... I couldn't. I wouldn't. It's too precious. * Maya looks up, and her eyes have that look of iron resolve in them, even though she looks like she just wants to cry her eyes out. "... and as much as I don't know what I'm even thinking, I still want to be with you. It's just..." * Lord_Darkmoon slides over next to her, and hugs her, impulsively. And just holds her for a moment. * Maya fights for a response, and all she can offer up is a soft sob before she proceeds to cry quietly on Rin's shoulder. ... it should just... all be simple. * Lord_Darkmoon smoothes her hair, holding her. "It should," he agrees softly. "It really should. But it isn't. And yet you still manage it...." There's a hint of awe in his voice, though at what is Maya's guess. Heh... I don't have a choice. * Maya pulls back, still a bit teary-eyed, but she nonetheless wipes at her cheeks with the back of her hand. "Someone has... to keep a level head. So much is going on, and if we're all losing our minds..." * Lord_Darkmoon smiles as he looks at her. "I'm glad that someone is you. I don't know that anyone else could have done it." Mina. Heh... I imagine she's next in line if things go wrong with me. Perhaps. But I'm not in love with her. Thank you, Maya-chan. For...everything. ... I still need time to get things all sorted in my head. But... we'll see where things go from here. * Lord_Darkmoon nods. "...would it bother you if...I changed, now? It's silly, but... I would like to introduce myself to you, as Rin. Unless... that would disturb you too much." I'll be alright. Go ahead. * Lord_Darkmoon smiles, and grasps the Tessen in his right hand. Lord Darkmoon melts away, leaving behind that beautiful young woman from Thursday, now dressed in a formal lavender kimono with a simple yellow floral print. Darkmoon's pony tail unravels into loose hair held back by a pair of hair clips. Hello, Maya-san. I am Rin Seishou. It is an honor to meet you. *performs a perfect seated bow* Rin Seishou... please, please. Just Maya... no need for formalities. * Maya returns the bow almost instinctively, and nowhere near as well. "... well, I have to admit this answers one thing I had always wondered." * Rin smiles. "What is that?" ...and Maya's cell rings. About---ah. One moment. * Rin 's practiced composure does not break, though her eyebrow arches a bit as her smile quirks to one of amusement. * Maya digs the phone out and opens it. "Good afternoon?" Something's happening - there's a dark car and two motorcycles in formation pulling up, and they're uniformed. ... not good. Keep an eye out. If anything else happens, call me immediately. ...are you coming? This is your war, not mine - I'm just the hired help, and I'm not going in there. Of course I am! I'm going to try and contact the others as well. ... just try to keep me posted on what's happening. You don't have to act. ...looks like Secretary-san is moving for the apartment. Get here, quick. Right. * Maya hangs up. "Trouble at Mina's. Let's go." She starts to dial up Taki's phone, pausing only to transform, pick it back up, and starts hastily putting on street clothes over her normal look. * Rin rises, points the Tessen at the floor, and after a purple-moon-assisted transformation and quick alteration of uniform to the street clothes he had on before, Lord Darkmoon opens the door for Lady Mysteria. * LadyMysteria hits 'send', looking over at Rin before nodding and heading on out with quite a bit of haste. "Come on... pick up..." * Taki walks down the sidewalk with way too many bags in her hands next to Leena who has even more. "I can't believe you had me buy so much crap..." We've got HOW many people here? You gotta think about cooking for more than yourself. We don't need 5 course meals every night either... * Lord_Darkmoon follows, pausing only to lock up behind himself. You're not the one who should be complaining, anyway. Mitsi and Rin get to cook it all. * Taki fumbles around with the bags as her phone rings. "Shit. Hold on..." She hastily sets the bags on the ground, pulling out her phone. Hitting the send button after a handful of rings, she answers, "Yeah?" I help! Taki, trouble. Mina's house, *now*. * LadyMallet mmphs, and waits. ... Shit! ... what? We gotta get to Mina's... ... trouble? *blink* ... make sure she gets my gun. It's in the kitchen. * Taki starts running, leaving the bags there on the street. * LadyMallet grumbles, and takes off after Taki- she doesn't have to let go of her stuff, though. Are you still at the agency? Leena needs her gun... ... we're close. Darkmoon, go back and get Leena's gun, quickly. * Lord_Darkmoon nods, and jets back to the Agency to do just that. He takes a moment to make it vanish up the sleeve that does not have his own gun before heading back out and running to catch up with Mysteria. * Taki ducks into a nearby alley and trans real quick, keeping her clothes the same. * LadyMysteria doesn't even wait for a reply, hanging up and making headway towards Mina's. * LadyNightshade puts her phone away and runs as fast as she can. * LadyMallet sets her bags down, waiting up for Taki, then jetting after her, trying her best to keep up. Just a couple minutes before, inside Minami's place... * Father yawns mightily, clawing his way to his feet in the darkened main bedroom. * Father tosses the sheets back onto the bed in no particular shape, and grabs a rumpled pair of pants off the top of a dresser before stumbling out into the hallway. Mina? * Father looks around. * Minami leans back from the kitchen counter. "Yes, Papa?" * Father shakes his head, blearily. "Just wondered if you were around, Mina- chan." * Father moves to the kitchen, and begins preparing a large kettle of green tea. * Minami continues chopping. * Father huggles his daughter slightly as he passes. * Minami pats her father absentmindedly on the shoulder, continuing to look slightly worried. Are you doing okay? Have they figured out what the deal was at your school yet? Not yet, nothing more than what I told you. Goons masquerading as SWAT team agents. Huh. * Father finishes microwaving the water, sloshes it into a big tumbler, and drops three cheap teabags in. Have you figured out what school you'll switch to? I suppose it's a real problem, right at the end of the school year and all... * Minami stops chopping for a second to run a hand through her hair. "Well, I was thinking about going back...but then again, the job would prefer I stay local, and we need the money. They mentioned something about tutoring, and if that's free or at least cheap, I wouldn't complain." Um. * Minami glances up. "Problem, Father?" If they're willing to provide... that's some job, though, to make arrangements like that... * Father chugs his tea, wincing at the heat. * Minami starts chopping again. "Yeah, I know. If it were just another dumb labor thing like everything else I've worked I wouldn't care, but. Well, it's not like we can afford to relocate to find cheaper schooling." I just worry. You don't tell us anything. * Minami glances his direction and then back. "Don't drink the tea so quickly, Father, you'll burn your throat." * Father opens his mouth to chastise her for changing the subject, then decides not to push the point. ...I was thinking I'd go visit her this evening, before heading to the club... * Minami bites her lip. "That would...probably be a good idea." Do you want to come with me? I do...but...work wants me tonight. I'll visit her after my shift... Okay... * Father leans past Mina to look at what she's chopping. "Dinner?" * Minami nods. "Er, yes." There's a loud knock at the door. Um... * Minami quicksteps to the door, sidestepping her father. "I'll get that." I can, just let me get a robe. * Minami "forgets" to put the knives away first as she looks out the peephole. "No, no. Already ahead of you." There are several people standing in the entryway, all of them close to the door so that she can't get a really good view of any of them. They do seem to be in some sort of formal uniform, though. Miss Terazaki? We know you're there, please open up. * Minami bites her lip harder and glances in the direction her father went, twiddling her knives. "...mm. Yeah, just a second." Who is it? We're on very important, very... confidential business. It would be best if we could go over that in privacy. ...I'm sure. Miss, if you do not let us in, we will let ourselves in. It is imperative that we talk. * Minami opens it a tiny crack. "Talk, eh?" The door's open. Go ahead and talk. The door is pushed in - firmly, not violently, and six men - Americans, she can now see, barge into the apartment. None of them have weapons drawn, though she can see two of the younger ones have pistols at their belts. * Minami steps back. "...so....how may I help you gentlemen? We don't get many foreigners in these parts." * Officer closes and locks the door firmly behind him. I hope my accent is not too bad. May I offer you some tea? * Father comes out of the bedroom, still topless. "Mina-chan, what is... what the hell? It appears we have official visitors, Father. * Minami spares him a glance. "A shirt might be appropriate." * Officer is a slightly greying man, in his upper 40's, with a large block of service bars on his chest. With him are two very young soldiers who are obviously guards, the sailor that was with the group that was rescued from the carrier, a younger officer, and a one man in civilian clothes. Sir, we are sorry to intrude but we have a small problem and your daughter may be able to help us with it. * Minami tenses at the sight of the sailor, but she's so tense enough already it hardly makes a difference. The civilian chuckles at something in that sentence - probably the "small" part. Mina, what did you do? Uh...nothing, Papa... * Minami blinks. "I...don't understand how I would be able to assist you gentlemen." The US Army has barged into my house, and you say it was nothing? Navy, sir. We're with the Navy. Well, I didn't invite them! * Minami glances back at the men. "Er, no offense, sirs." And... she didn't do it. But we do need to talk to her. * Minami spreads her non-knife-holding hand. "Talk away, I suppose. I can hardly stop you..." * Officer turns back to Minami. "I'm Captain Wallace, and... there's no nice way to put this, but we know who you are." Oh? Are you certain you're not looking for another Miss Terazaki? Let's see... Minami Terazaki, age 16, late of Takeuchi Memorial High School, employed in a work-study program at the Blossom Detective Agency, where she... um. * Officer looks at her father. "He doesn't know, does he." Seventeen, actually. KNOW WHAT? * Officer looks down. "Oh, right, birthday." Right. The big one-seven. Sorry. * Minami shrugs. Do you want me to go on in front of him? Because I can. GAAAAAH. * Father retreats to the kitchen, where you hear the refrigerator opening. From around the corner, "Anyone want a Yebisu?" * Minami rubs her forehead. "Go ahead, Captain. Unless you feel it might be too...confidential." Well, I understand this is somewhat traumatic, and if you don't want him to know, I'm willing to respect that. Let's just...I get the feeling I will be wanting to be sitting down for this. * Father returns, sucking on a beer. He looks not-happy. Unless you would allow me a few moments with my father? That... can be arranged. * Minami bows uncertainly. "Thank you." * CaptainWallace cants his head back towards the kitchen, and there's a mass retreat around the corner. Miiiiina-chan... Uhhhhh. So, Papa... What? I mean, what the hell is this? ...perhaps it'd be best if you went and visited Mother now--I promise to explain it to you later. Or, uh, you could always go back into the bedroom, and if you hear anything exploding you could hop out the window. Like when the tax collectors came last month. * Minami smiles innocently! 9-9 This isn't about ME. What IS THIS? Uh. Well. I suppose there's really not an easy way to say this...ummmm... ...so, you know those Magical Girls/ ? Yes, of course I do - oh. There are people after them, and I'm sort of part of an organization that, uh...makes them stop that. But the AMERICANS? * Minami waves her hands in front of her. "Believe me, they're as much of a surprise for me right now as for you!" ...basically. We don't really know...what..."side" they're on. * Minami lowers her voice at around this point. ...I guess I don't want to know. Okay, you got your privacy. Probably not. I just...thank you, Father. I'm sorry. * Father chucks his bottle in a trash can, and disappears into the bedroom. He's back out seconds later in a worn shirt and shoes. I like you, Mina-pu. Don't get killed, okay? I try. Oi. Yes? * Father heads right out the door, not looking back, or even noticing the small cluster of teenagers just across the street. * Minami runs out and gives her father a quick hug. "Give my love to Mother." * Minami glances at the team and gives a @_@ expression to them, then runs back in to deal with the Merkins. * Father peels himself loose and runs. * Secretary is with the others. "...okaaay, I guess they haven't shot her yet." ... yeah. Should we grab the slob and ask him what's up? He might know if there's a weird situation going on... Let's just get up there before they do shoot her. Looks like. Let's go. * LadyNightshade continues running across the street and into the apartment complex. * Secretary has her pistol out. It's a Glock, identical to Sakura's. ... well, looks like Mina's getting more guests. * LadyMysteria is pretty much right behind Nightshade, ready to draw. * Secretary follows Nightshade closely. * LadyMallet has her gun tucked into her waist. She's only making a minimal effort to keep it unobvious. Nightshade is to the door bare seconds after Minami closes it behind her. * LadyNightshade opens the door again and barges in. "Mina, are you-- Wha?" *eyes the Americans* "What's going on?" * LadyMallet makes her way over there as well. * Secretary pushes in, her gun raised. * LadyMysteria is right behind Nightshade, wand low and ready. * CaptainWallace and his fellow officers have just come around the corner into the living space... "Um." * Minami FACEFAULTS and mutters under her breath. "Way to take a hint, guys." * CaptainWallace raises his hands. * LadyMallet strides in, hands empty. "Looks like there's already company." * Minami grits her teeth. "Indeed. Thanks for barging in." * LadyMallet glances at Mina. "... sorry, we were worried!" What? We're here to uh... Sorry. Keep them up, mister! All of you! You know that 10 times out of 10 organized people in suits, with guns and vehicles have crossed paths, they're trying to kill us. * Minami forehead-slaps and mutters something unintelligible about "blowing all our covers while you're at it." Yeah, but people usually don't run out unperforated afterwards. Might have been a hostage situation! * Minami shakes her head. "Whatever. Do any of you want tea?" Nah. I'll help you with it, though. ... damn it all. Uh. Yeah. Sure. I'd, uh, rather you not. I can take care of it. * CaptainWallace smiles tolerantly and keeps them up. "Um, it seems to be a hostage situation from my end right now..." * LadyNightshade walks into the apartment awkwardly. You can stay out here and, um, get acquainted. Sorry, Captain. * LadyMallet glances about the collective group. "... okay." Alright, Mina... what's going on right now? Uhh...guys, U.S. Navy. U.S. Navy...friends of mine. Mysteria-sama...? You can most likely put your hands down now, unless you're going to kill us. * LadyMysteria groans, tucking her wand back into her pocket. "... hm?" How about everyone takes their guns and just sets them on the table and we'll all have a nice talk. * LadyMallet eyes Wallace. "Yeah, well, we haven't made any demands yet. If you insist, though, drop your weapons. All of you." * Minami ducks into the kitchen to make tea and hurriedly tries to tidy the place up while she's at it. No, no, that wasn't my intention. And as we seem to be outgunned, I suppose we should. The two marines disarm themselves, and the Secretary lowers her gun, though she's keeping it out. * LadyMallet leaves her gun where it's at. "... so. U.S. Navy." * LadyMallet glances at Maya, then back at Wallace. "What's up?" I have this... alright. Let's try to start things over. Might I ask what brought you here, gentlemen? * LadyMysteria looks over the group, taking a moment to let the adrenaline rush fade a bit. * LadyNightshade just has a seat. On a couch or something. Worst ninja ever. She sighs. Well, our intention was to make contact with the so-called magical girls of this city, through the one that we have been able to identify. * CaptainWallace grins. "It appears that we have succeeded." * LadyMysteria purses her lips at that. "Apparently so." * LadyMallet tilts her head slightly. "You only succeed if you manage to walk out with what you know." It's a matter-of-fact voice. * Minami brings out a tray of tea, cups, and a few scrounged-up packs of sugar for the crazy Merkins. Getting away with steps one through five, not just step one and two. * LadyMysteria looks back at the Secretary, then at Mallet. "Holster up. Let's talk without any reason to be nervous." Thank you, Lady Royal. * LadyMysteria frowns a little at Wallace using Mina's MG name. ... yeah, sorry. Not meant to be a threat. Just nitpicking. * Minami winces. "Just Minami. Right now. If you must." Our intentions are not hostile, I assure you. What are they, then? ... seems so. You not acting like bloodthirsty zealots. * LadyMysteria mmms. "Well, please, feel free to tell us what you want." You've got some reason for seeking us out, though. We'd appreciate it if you told us what that is. We've had to educate ourselves rather quickly on the situation in this town... it was a surprising to learn how... endangered a situation your kind is in. * LadyMallet shifts her attention to the civvie. We have a problem. Okay, we have several problems - I think you can imagine what they might be, having been on the carrier when it sank. ... the nukes. Easily. And recovery operations have been... opposed. * Minami snorts. "Unsurprising." Opposed as in red tape being put in your way? ... probably the fish, or they wouldn't be dealing with us. We know nothing about these Ningyo, and no one in Japan seems to either. There has been some... resistance, yes, though more from our corporate partner than the government. But that would seem to be our problem. * LadyMallet nods. "What about the nukes? Have you been able to account for them?" * LadyNightshade idly glances out the window as she listens to the conversation. That is rather secret information... ... and ours isn't? ...so you've gone to your corporate partner with this, eh? Yes or no. Do you still have them, or did the Ningyo make off with them? They have not been moved. But we have been prevented from reaching them, too. * LadyMysteria smirks a little. "What can you tell us, then? If there's going to be any sort of working relationship here, which is what you seem to be nudging towards, we need to know something worthwhile." * LadyMallet frowns, then nods. "... I see." ... hm. And... what sort of resistance? Just delays and whatnot? USC is being somewhat... inefficient. And they've given us some bad information as well. Mmm. Delays, then. In such a manner as to not be direct, too. Hm. * LadyMallet raises an eyebrow. "I'd imagine so, if it's them." So what sort of information have you been giving *them*? Frankly, their reputation seems to be horribly inaccurate - they were touted as the best in the world. Who knows either way? USC and Hitachi 2osen are in league with the Ningyo, though. We're talking with them about building a special recovery plat- WHAT? * LadyMysteria gives Leena a very flat look. * Civilian chokes on his tea. ... ... they should know what they're up against, and why they're being siderailed. It could've been broken much more gently, but we suspect they have dealings with the Ningyo, yes. * LadyMysteria sighs. "Yes, but you just don't hit them over the head with it." Good god. Tell me, have you had contact with the CEO or his USC attache since the...incident? I think you see why we're concerned about the nukes now. It makes sense... no, no it doesn't! But it does explain... They've been strangely unavailable. Hell, the President tried to call them and got blown off... * Lord_Darkmoon 's face darkens. "I see." ... you probably have different sources than we do. What do you know of our situation? * CaptainWallace looks at the civilian. * Minami picks up a nearby deck of cards and begins shuffling. "Yes. We just gave you a juicy piece of information, and we'd like you to repay the favor." * LadyMysteria grinds her teeth a tiny bit. "Please do." * Civilian grimaces as he wipes tea off his suit. "Like I said, we're just getting up to speed on what's really happening around this town." * Lord_Darkmoon moves over to Mysteria, just trying to be a calming presence. Hm. What do you plan to do next, then? * LadyNightshade casually tries to spot Mitsuko watching the place while the conversation continues. I mean, it's somewhat disorienting to realize that not only are there magical mermaids out to sink our ships, but they've been conducting terrorist operations in one of the world's largest cities for years, and scarcely anyone in our country noticed them. Mitsuko is too good to be spotted! It has hardly been a secret, though I can imagine that it would be passed off as fiction if you do not wish to believe it. It's our bloody little secret, I suppose. Let's just say our media hasn't truly believed it. Heh. We wouldn't either if it weren't happening in our backyard, so to speak. I wouldn't be surprised. And, to be honest, I'm glad. It's bad enough with the media here. And the PSID has surprisingly been entirely silent about it. We just don't understand at all - it's clearly some form of terrorism, and they'd have gotten priority help if they'd asked... * Minami shudders, remembering the magazine people. Regardless, Ladies and gentlemen, that is not exactly why we are here. What is it you had hoped to obtain from Terazaki-san? Well... I can tell you, in a nutshell, what they want, if you'd like. At least, what we think they want. Well... there are a number of things that we'd like. Oh? Hm? But really, we didn't expect to make such... robust contact today. * Lord_Darkmoon clasps Mysteria's hand surreptitiously, squeezing once. That shouldn't stop you from letting us know what you came to me for in the first place. You will forgive us our paranoia, I'm sure. What did you expect to come of 'today'? Yeah, what's up? Miss Terazaki - Lady Royal - we were hoping that she would deliver our message to her superiors - it's obvious that there is some sort of organization at work amongst your group - and that your representatives would meet with us at a secure location. ... hm. What message would that be? * LadyMysteria listens, letting Mina handle things. * Lord_Darkmoon takes Mysteria's cue, and does likewise. * LadyMallet perks her ears up. Figuratively. That we do wish to meet, that there is much you can do for us and to oppose the Ningyo regarding the carrier recovery operations... and that we would repay your support generously. * Minami scratches her chin. "An interesting message, to be sure." Is a way to contact you included in that? * CaptainWallace smiles apologetically. "I'm not senior enough to conduct negotiations - but I know the language, so they sent me to make contact." You can call me directly. *hands a card to whoever takes it* * LadyMallet lets Mina take it. * Minami takes it. "I see." You realize we cannot guarantee you success in these negotiations. Especially considering the American partnership with USC and Hitachi- 2osen. What is that supposed to mean? ... you're affiliated with an ally of our enemy, at least loosely. That 'Lady Royal', as you called her, is not senior enough to conduct these negotiations either. *quirks a small, sardonic smile* We bought some services from what was supposed to be a quality contractor. There was no reason to think they were supporting mermaid terrorists... Hell, Hitachi-2osen itself has hired hitmen out on us. There's going to be suspicion and less than open arms. While I would hope our superiors would not take such an affiliation as immediate grounds for enmity, the safety of our comrades is--usually--of great concern to them. Well... should matters be sorted out, I think that negotiations may be possible. It would be in your long-term interest to make friends with America. We have... much to offer, and much reason to support you. ... if your cause is pure, I wish you luck, though. But keep that in mind. * LadyMysteria looks at Mina for a moment. "I'm certain that this will all work out in the end." Mm. At any rate. We'll play courier for you. But we can't guarantee more than that. I know this may be sensitive information, but may I ask about where you all fit into the organization of magical girls? Just to have some sense of what level I've made contact at? * LadyMallet glances at Maya. It's sensitive, and I can't give specifics, but consider us... experienced field agents. * Minami exchanges glances with Maya. "Let's just say we're not scraping the bottom of the barrel, but we're nowhere near the top." Experienced, so your opinions will be respected, but not ranking, so you can not commit the organization to anything. * Lord_Darkmoon shrugs. "And I'm not even a magical girl." His deadpan makes it unclear whether that's a joke or not. * CaptainWallace chuckles politely. Close enough. * LadyMallet glares flatly at Darkmoon for a moment, before turning back to the guests. I understand. Thank you. * Lord_Darkmoon may not have seen Leena's glare for all his reaction. Is there anything else? Is there a way we can contact you? Without bothering Terazaki- san at her residence? If we do not receive a reply soon enough, we will come back... * Lord_Darkmoon leans in to whisper to Maya, "Shall I give them the Agency number, or my own cell?" * LadyNightshade looks over at the secretary. If we trust you, we'll get in contact with you shortly enough. Ano... I don't think we should give them any more. * Minami grins tightly and not in a friendly manner. "Let's hope that's not necessary. As I said, we have no power to ensure anything but the receipt of your message." * LadyMallet shrugs, and opens her arms apologetically. "We'll touch bases and give you better contact information then, and only then." * LadyMysteria shakes her head, saying nothing. If that is the way you prefer. For now... we're going to have to stick to this method. Things are tense at the moment. It is. I will phone ahead, if we do come back this way. * Minami winces slightly at that. * LadyMallet nods. "I'm sure you understand the necessity. ... aside from that, though..." Thank you gentlemen, for your concern, time, and kind offers. Unless there is anything else... I trust this meeting will be kept *very* discreet? I wish you luck. And. We tried our hardest to save the ship... We will anxiously await your response. Our superiors will have little reason to trust you if our information is widely compromised. ... and everybody on it. We have... reports, Lady Mallet. And we understand. ...thank you, Captain. ... * Lord_Darkmoon 's mask is slipping more and more into a look of disapproval as these men stay...and address more people by their titles. * CaptainWallace straightens, and bows. "Please emphasize the importance of this to your superiors. We can not wait too long." Yeah. Of course. Right. * CaptainWallace walks out, and his men follow. "Good evening, then. " * Lord_Darkmoon bows farewell. "Good evening." Good evening. Bye. * Lord_Darkmoon waits a few seconds after the door is closed behind them before frowning. "I do not like this." Well, you can not like it more at the Agency. * Minami grabs her coat. "Let's go." I'll call Sakura. * LadyNightshade pulls out her cellphone. * Secretary finally holsters her gun. * Minami opens the door and waves Taki out. "Walk and talk, c'mon." * Lord_Darkmoon uses the Tessen to pull out Leena's gun. "You requested this. It seems it was not needed after all." * LadyNightshade dials up Sakura's cell as she heads out the door. * Lord_Darkmoon heads out the door, calm mask back in place. ... well. Go. This can either be a breakthrough, or more trouble. I'm praying the former. * LadyMallet waves them off. We should not be siding with the gaijin government before feeling out our own. Hey Sakura. We made contact at Mina's place. ... Although not really the kind we were expecting. * Minami chases everyone out, then locks up and follows. Oh? I'm not sure we have the option at this point, Darkmoon. But we'll see. ... that's up to the Palace staff, I think. It would seem the Americans were looking into things themselves. They tracked Mina down to her place and we just had a meeting with them. But, really, at this, point, all the help we can get, the better, I think. Aside from the fact that this does verge on treason, if we invite them onto Japanese ground without approval, it will not aid our public image if we are seen siding with the Americans against a domestic corporation. ...interesting. And they wanted what? In case you didn't notice, they're already on Japanese ground. ... it may come down to the means justifying the end, Darkmoon. Right now, like it or not, we're against a wall. Any true assistance... *any* is a godsend. You know what I mean, Minami. They wanted Mina to contact those in charge and let them know they're interested in working together. I think it sounds interesting, although I'm not sure if everyone here entirely trusts them yet. Anyway, it's not a matter of choosing one over the other. I don't see any reason not to. They were taken advantage of just as much as we have been. I see. They left us a number and said they'd meet with a representative private at a location of our choosing. Let me get some of the Princesses, and when you get back to the Agency with everyone, tell the Secretary to set up a conference call with the Palace. ...we've got misguided fools with supposed loyalties to the Emperor gunning for us, and we've got a foreign government seeking alliance. *shakes his head* Father is, sadly, more right than he knows. They just found us first, that's all. And if they can be trusted, we're going to be a major source of what they know. Alrighty. Talk to you soon, then. Right. * LadyNightshade hangs up and joins the others. Sakura wants to set up a conference call with the other Princesses and us when we get back to the Agency. As far as our government goes, I'd like it if we were able to take a shot at it, but the government in general is more likely to harbor people who'd rather take a shot at us. Right. This day just keeps getting better and better. So...we'll just have to step a bit more carefully with them. ... well, it's been better than most of our others. Oh, geez. This'll be fun. ... and Rin, you're going to have to step a bit outside of the box at this point. We will keep them at arm's-length, but... help is help. And hey! Papa and I didn't get shot at and our place is still in one piece. For now. Score! Yeah! * LadyMallet goes to high-five Minami * Minami said that in a sarcastic tone, but rolls her eyes and high-fives Leena anyway. If they could find Mina, they might be able to help us track our attackers too. *sigh* You are correct, my Lady. We cannot really afford to turn them away. But maintaining the upper hand is essential... and our foes will have more ammunition, now. ...that worries me too. They do have much better technology at their disposal too. ... it's unlikely we'll get any open support from them just yet. But we did set you up to be found Mina. Just someone else took the bait. This can still work to our advantage. But it'll open up doors, and contacts, and even covert help and support is great. Let them come, Rin. I know, I know. Just. Hoping they found me because we wanted them to instead of by other means. The USC/Hitachi 2osen connection makes me edgy. * Lord_Darkmoon shakes his head. "If they can become open about it, and make it Japan versus the Americans and their Magical Girl Puppet Queen, we have lost." The American government, if friendly, probably has better contacts about who's who and can get us some valuable information concerning our situation, too. * LadyMallet shakes her head. "... Rin." It's attitudes like that that will cause us to break off on our own, become our own faction. Not just Japanese. * Minami nods. "Yeah, I know." The Hitachi 2osen connection worries me, too. And for...more personal reasons. And...yes. It will simply come down to reminding people that they ally with the Ningyo. I will call Mother. And, last I checked, people don't like the fish. We should still try to contact the Emperor. The Americans won't stand for any sort of war. Ha! * LadyMysteria makes a face. If we have him supporting this, we will not need to concern ourselves with PR. I mean without putting an immediate stop to it. Their way. You just don't mess with the American military, and with them on our side... At least it'll save lives! ...people will see WWII all over again. Maybe. The Americans weren't responsible for that. ... it's really important to separate ourselves from the Japanese. They invaded our country, Nightshade. * LadyMallet sighs. ...they weren't WHAT!? * Lord_Darkmoon looks at Mallet like she's crazy. "WHAT did you just say?" They invaded it after we attacked them! And...yeah, what Darkmoon said! The SDF's work with the Americans all the time. I don't see why we, as another Japanese defense group, can't. ... I'm beginning to understand the Queen, somewhat. The SDF is also recognized by our government. We're not. Well we should be. That may change soon. We're big an dangerous, and currently labeled as just another Japanese group, whether we are or not. We -are- Japanese, Mallet. We are also of the Earth, and therein lies one of our problems. Mallet isn't. I am. The last thing we should be doing is separating ourselves from that. There's a big difference there. ... Darkmoon isn't Japanese. Darkmoon is affiliated with the MG's. But everyone else thinks he's Japanese. That's the way it is with all of us. That... simply won't work. ....*what*!? Mallet... has a point, in a way. The duality of what we are is an issue. As long as they see us as Japanese, we'll be treated like the Japanese, and they'll be held responsible for us. For Queen and country, to borrow a phrase. We NEED to separate ourselves, become our own group. Especially in the world's eyes. ...that's exactly what the people against us are afraid of, from what I gather. That's the sort of thinking that makes people like Oak think we should be rulers of the world. I never said anything about ruling. You might not, but that's what people will think. And I mean people in our organization as well as on the outside. But it may be happening no matter what we do. Things... seem to be in motion, at least, so that we're more than just media footage and little girls' dreams. ... one of three things will happen to us MG's. ... We'll be wiped out. ... it's actually kind of depressing, when you think about it. We'll be absorbed, and controlled by the Japanese government like just another military resource. We can't be wiped since they can't control who gets born a magical girl. Or we will free ourselves. Free ourselves and *then what*? Keep the Earth safe. That... I don't think anyone knows, aside from dealing with the Ningyo. Too many unknowns. That's all we have to do. Protect the Earth. Do you have any idea what trouble a group of magic-using, autonomous teenagers could do to the world? * LadyMallet shakes her head, sadly. Mallet, I am Japanese. I, Lord Darkmoon, am Japanese. So if the Americans recognize us, our government will have to. Yes, Mina. I do. They don't get to control us, we won't let them. But we shouldn't try to control them either. ... a lot, potentially. But what will happen if they're too controlled to do what they need to? The Earth will die! That's what! ... I don't think it's a matter of 'if', but 'when'. Maybe not in our lifetime, but... who knows? I won't cotton to it, but I might not be alive by them. You won't always be teenagers, though. Already, some of us aren't. ... you can make your own choice, but frankly, my mind is set as to which is the better alternative. Yeah, tell that to Pie and The Rapist. ... * LadyMallet shakes her head. "And don't go judging us all by the bad apples. We're better than that." Enough. * LadyMysteria blinks as she catches what the Secretary says, then looks her way. "... excuse me?" Don't think that they're the only ones who would do such things, either. The potential is in all of us, and if it were unleashed? Yeah, not a good idea. ... come up with a better idea, then. Our choice now is simpler than these foolish questions about whether or not we are of this nation. It is: do we condone or denigrate this alliance with the US Navy.