Mission

                                    Jack

It was a beautiful day outside, not too hot for the early fall and with a slight breeze that brought with it the mingled scents of cities, trees, and a faint salt tang from the ocean. It would've been the perfect day for Jack to grab a book or five and find a secluded corner of the base to relax. Instead, he found himself cooped up in one of the rooms of the AP Clinic - a rather innocuous sounding name for the place - seated on a plastic chair in front of a wide, plain plastic table, across from Cathryn Thompson. Almost everything in here was dense plastic, protection from her powers. The walls were plain too, save for one section that was a one-way mirror; there were certainly scientists monitoring this session from the other side, detailing the readings they were getting from the pair of APs. Both of them had sensors attached to them: pulse rate monitor clipped around a finger, sticky pads pressed to necks and foreheads that transmitted their data wirelessly into the military's[C]

computers. "Try to think back," he had been saying, staring at her intensely, his voice low. Jack's eyes looked tight, pained even, but he didn't let on to his discomfort beyond that. "To the Day of Terror...remember what it felt like when all that power was yours..." Jack's highly untrained telepathic powers brushed against Cathryn's mind, likely feeling more like he'd stumbled into her than like he was trying to guide her along gently, and every time he actually managed to make that connection it was both brief and the pain in his face grew. "Remember balance," he droned on, "don't pull too much..." The goal, according to the scientists today, had been to test the both of them. Jack's telepathy might come in handy with assisting other AP's with their abilities, they theorized, and perhaps if he could trigger the right memories, the right instincts, Cathryn would learn more control. That was the plan at least, but either one of them might lose it any second with prolonged use of[C]

powers, destroy themselves, maybe each other, hence the beads of nervous sweat on his forehead.




                                         Cat


Seated across from Jack Cathryn was more than nervous in the clinical, plain room designated for their training session. Even as she listened to Jack and turned her mind back to that day she spoke softly. "This..won't be pleasant for you Jack." Turning her mind back to that day Jack would see the memory of Cathryn sitting in Ava's dorm room. Specifically sitting on the other girl's bed, right next to her and watching a movie. The two had been snuggling and confirming their budding crushes on each other. As soon as the day of terror began for Cathryn though, her closed eyes snapped open as she felt something wrong within herself. Her eyes were wide with terror and Ava was about to ask what was wrong. Before she could though, Cathryn's power raged out of control, her fingers sparking with electricity. Ava grabbed hold of Cathryn's hands, but this proved to be a horrible error. The power flowed wild and out of control into Ava's body, causing her to scream as the electrical current arce

d through Ava. Cathryn's fingertips were glowing in the room she shared with Jack, her fingers emitting sparks of electricity. Slowly though Cathryn began to center herself, taking Jacks words to mind, she managed to keep her power mostly in check, and laid a hand on the small electronic device in front of her. Power slowly began to arc from her fingertips to charge the device, it required a lot of focus and without Jack's influence in her mind, she would have lost control completely. Breathing fast and shallow, Cat's heartbeat became faster. Her secondary task was nearly accomplished. SItting upright Cat kept control somehow even with Jack's presence battering into her mind at first. Still there was a limit to how long she could maintain this control, she wasn't all that from losing control . Once her part of the charging portion was done, she looked into Jack's eyes, her own glowing with little bits of electrical energy. Cathryn was crying just a little even as her test ended,.(e)


                                                   Jack



When Cathryn warned him, it actually made Jack give a wry smile, and in response he said, "It never is." Reading people's minds? Even when he could manage it, which was not often at all, it was never something he enjoyed doing. People's thoughts, the way they thought, was all their own, each individual unique, and having that in his head was awkward to say the least. Jack felt a swirl of diziness strike him, and one hand lifted to his left temple where the headache was the most intense, pressing against it with his fingers. Even as Cat's memory began, as her eyes began to glow, so too did Jack's, a low-key magenta that wasn't much brighter than her electric blue. There was another surge of diziness as he managed to connect, a wave of nausea, and suddenly Jack saw flashes of Cat's painful memories. It wasn't nearly as clear for him as it was for her, so he only caught glimpses, of what she'd seen, heard, smelled, tasted, felt. Her emotions too. He could feel that pain as [C]

Cathryn relived what had happened, knew it as she knew it, and it broke his heart. By the time she managed to charge up the testing device, Jack too was crying softly, eyes locked to her's. The connection broke, like whiplash in his skull, and for a long moment only the sound of their ragged breathing echoed in the room. Jack lowered his eyes and scrubbed at them with a back of a hand, cleared his throat, and only then, finally composed some, did he look up again. "I'm sorry," he said softly, voice heavy with emotion.







                                                            Cat
As her power slowly was reigned back in, she felt the nausea from Jack, could see the way the electrical signals in his body had changed while they were connected. Before too long, and yet after an eternity, she would sigh softly as the connection broke between them. Her body aching from the prolonged and controlled use of her powers. Her own tears dripped down to the plastic table, and she sighed wiping them away slowly bringing them under her control. "I'm sorry too, sorry you had to see that." Her pulse was slowly returning to normal. Reaching out across the table, she briefly covered Jacks hand with her own, the glow having faded from it. "Thank you, Jack. I'm sure that was hard for you too see." WIthdrawing her hand from his after a bare moment.

Cathryn cleared her throat, and spoke softly. "Hey..um is it okay if I'm the one to let Emily know about this? I..trust her and I want to be the one to tell her what I've done." Okay so it was way off topic but the researchers weren't asking questions yet. The raw emotion in her voice was obvious as his own had been when he apologized. "Her name was Ava, she had such a bright future, but I took that from her.." Trailing off she forced the conversation back into a lighter subject. "So, what do you think we'll have to do next Jack?" She asked to try and change the conversation away from the past. She didn't want to relive this topic, too leave it behind. Sitting in the hard chair, she smiled a bit sadly and kept her gaze on Jack for the time being.


                                                             Dex


Whoooshing™ about on his own, as per usual, doing his own freaky thing, Freak continued to come and go as he pleased. Already creating a rather troublesome reputation on the base for himself; the very same one he was notoriously known for in his previous one. Medical tests? Observations? Scientific experiments? Forms to fill out? The correct answer to these and many, many more questions seemed to be 'none of the above'. Why? 'Cause all of those things were hellishly boring. Duh. There was no way someone as overly energetic as Freak could possibly sit still through any one of those. So, where was he at this very moment? Doing some truly off-key karaoke singing through the base communication center's loudspeakers. Should he be stopped? Probably. Had any of the regular soldiers tried to do so? Maybe. They just seemed to be having some real trouble getting through a solid wall, 120 inches thick, of pure reinforced steel. [c]

Where did said wall come from… well, let's just say it was a rather recent improvement, courtesy of a certain blue freak. Now, the real important question was, what the hell was he singing? Now that you can be treated to an actual answer. ♫ "They're gonna clean up your looks, with all the lies in the books, to make a citizen out of you. Because they sleep with a gun, and keep an eye on you, son, so they can watch all the things you do.~ Because the drugs never work! They're gonna give you a smirk! 'Cause they got methods of keepin' you clean. They gonna rip up your heads, your aspirations to shreds… Another cog in the murder machine!~ ~They ≈ said ≈ all,..Teenagers scare the living shit out of me. They could care less as long as someone'll bleed. So darken your clothes, or strike a violent pose; maybe they'll leave you alone,… but not me‼~" ♫ –Quality singing it was not, but the playfully mocking message was very clearly there. [e]



                                         Mine
It was a beautiful day outside, the sun is just barely shinning, the birds are singing...or well the ones that have not left just yet, the flowers while not blooming...they are indeed still in bloom, on days like these APs like her should be...enjoying the time outside. Right by the entrance at the back, Emily is sitting down cross-legged with phone out with a LeeandLie cover (youtube.com ) playing. at a respectable volume and is singing along with a her sketch book on her lap. Long brown hair down this time with a black head back is keeping some strands from being in the way of sight. Today? The shy AP is wearing a white shirt with a crescent moon on it with the phrase 'In the name of the moon!' printed across the chest below the moon with a pair of jean shorts paired with black knee highs and brown ankle boots. The scene on the sketch book is of ever

yone but in a chibi fantasy style. Jack's chibi is wearing a wizard's robe with metal pauldrons with a staff and a Gandolf inspired hat representing his position as leader, Errand has a wolf-like appearance with ears and tail, Ellie is designed like a fairy due to the lights and yes she is dressed as Tinker Bell, sue her. Cat's design? For Cat is dressed as a battle mage with bolts coming from her finger tips, Dex is drawn in a knight fashion..for umm....n-no reason. SHUT UP! Anyways, Moses is designed to be like a medieval Magneto, and as for herself? Em draws herself as a witch with the pointy hat and the long robe-like dress. They are in a half drawn dungeon. Chocolate colored eyes staring down at the page so when she was approached rather quickly it was startling. Oh, who was this person? They seem important. Pausing the music when the person started speaking she feels dread pool

ing in her stomach. "Right! On it Sir!" Taking the file and listening to the instructions on how to get to the testing area Em packs up and dashes back into the building. Straight, left, right....straight. Guards are bumped into on the way there but yes they were quickly apologized to and was briefed on what the rush is. They let her go with a grumble and threats that were ignored. It can't be helped, this is urgent. Finding the area, Em busts in. "S-sorry! B-but please this is urgent!" Before the scientists could argue and call the guard Em shows them the paper and one of them presses a button. "Jack, Cathryn. We are cutting this short. Your CO has sent a team member of yours with orders to head out and stop a wild AP from harming civilians." The button is let go of and Em is already gone. Shit, where's Dex at? Where is everyone else at? Their first mission...nervousness and panic.





                                                Jack
Though he looked a little surprised that Cathryn was apologizing to him, having expected shame and rage at him spying on such a terrible memory, Jack returned the pressure of her hand with his own. "You have nothing to apologize for," Jack insisted softly, but there was intensity again in his hazel eyes as he looked back up at her. "It wasn't your fault. It wasn't any of our faults." He felt a surge of guilt and terror thinking about the Day of Terror; Jack had blocked out those memories, but he wondered just how much damage he might have caused himself. "This is your memory, Cathryn, and your choice who you share it with." A harmless lie, he supposed, seeing as neither of them had had a choice of her sharing it with him today, and who knew when they'd make them try again. The scientists always got excited about successes like this, however small. As Cathryn shared more though, Jack's jaw tightened. He couldn't forget how she felt about all this, and so he felt the same sort[C]

of pain when he heard the name 'Ava'. "Well, I was hoping to get everyone started on some basic hand-to-hand and marksmanship," Jack
said quickly, grateful for the change of subject. "And-" Whatever else he was going to say was cut off by the intercom activating. "What?!" Jack was on his feet and around the table fast, glaring impotently at the mirror, "They're not ready!" The scientists didn't both insisting; they knew as well as he did that there wasn't anymore choice in this than the tests. Who else was expected to face an AP? When Jack looked back to Cathryn, there was worry in his expression, "I'm sorry. Seems like I'm saying that a lot these days. Come on, we need to get geared up ASAP." The buzzer sounded, opening the plastic door to let them out, and he started a quick jog to lead them towards the training field and the building next to it that held their squad's equipment, keeping pace with the song that now belted out over the speakers. "Will somebody please get[C]

Dexter out of there before he gets us all in deep shit?" He wasn't sure who he was pleading with at this point.



                                                         Mine


The scientists have no say in the matter. This order was coming from a commanding officer and there is no way they are able to deny that despite Jacks's protests. Actually, like it mattered to them. It really didn't, there are others here who can be tested on and others who share the same abilities and those who might be easier to work with. They are just disposable research material is all. Anyways, moving on. The door opens revealing Jack and Cat as they both head towards the field. Mmm, so then. "I-I'll get him!" Maybe they didn't hear her? Oh well. Dashing towards the communication center and sure enough there are guards trying to get through a...how? Why? No time to question it. "S-sorry...u-um I-I got this, w-we need to g-go." Turning invisible and dashing forward Em phases through the wall that the Blue male set up and reappears only to tug on him. "U-Umm, y-you can sing l-later. T-they w-w...want us on a m-mission. J-Jack wants us at the training field r-r-right now." Brown optics stare at him with urgency...pleading almost. "P-please?" Anxiety is being pushed back.


                                                          Dex
"Oh hi there.. – Right. Duty Calls!~" Art tools in hand, he'd quickly paint a deep dark tunnel over the steel wall, before performing a quick road runner skit. One in which he attempts to volt out of there through the tunnel, only to slam head on into… well, a steel wall. Some broken teeth, goofy -twirly eyes, and singing birdies later, the male would 'fix' himself up and grin at Emily. "I'll see ya on the field." He'd state confidently before jolting into the electronics like the energetic bolt of lightning that he was and slipping out of there via the communication center's wiring. Emerging out of the closest loudspeaker to the training field, as a lightning bolt, he'd quickly dash over to where Jack was. "Where's the mission at?" A very specific question being asked underneath the guise of silliness. And if Jack was any sort of reliable leader, he'd understand Freak immediately. 'They were clearly not ready, but if a certain lunatic could get there first…



                                              Cat

Jack and herself seemed to be getting along okay, she was coming to trust Jack a little more with this exchange. Sure there were things they would have to do that she wouldn't like, and she knew that. She didn't really mind if others had to see that memory, but she wanted to warn Emily before it could happen. It was shocking and depressing she knew, and she wanted to warn her friend very much. Being cut off by the announcement Cat swallowed nervously, but looked at her waist quickly, the tool to help with control of her powers was present. Nodding her head to Jack, she hated the idea of going on a mission, but she knew that she had no choice. "Ready as can be Jack." Not a lie as she was, and well they would have to muddle through. Slipping into the barracks she suited up before heading out to the field to meet with t

he team. Looking at the blue male that had offered to help with her powers she nodded and smiled a bit to him before speaking up. "Duracell reporting in, Jack." The name Erran had given her sounded alright for now, and she had no trouble using it. Her capacitor was fully charged so she could draw on her abilities without hurting herself. Standing there she was nervous as all get out, but tried to project an air of confidence. It wouldn't do to let herself appear shaken. Nope she had to be strong for all of them, and while her thoughts might have been more focused on a certain someone when she got out into the field she would be all business. Cat was trying to view this as a chance at redemption, using her powers to keep others safe, maybe not the person they were hunting, but at least the team and any civilians about.







                                         Jack

As nervous as he had been when the announcement came down, Jack quickly got over it and focused on the job. He'd done this more times than he cared to remember now, and within minutes of reaching the equipment warehouse he was geared up and waiting for the others. Black boots, camo pants, one of those drab olive t-shirts the Army wore, but instead of a military jacket like a regular soldier he had his black leather jacket on top. The strap of his rifle was around his chest, the weapon peaking up over his shoulder, there was already a communicator in his ear and a belt of pockets around his waist. Counting the APs available, figuring the others were likely caught up in testing and training, he hoped this was going to be enough. "Everyone, grab an earpiece. No weapons, unless you are sure you know how to use them already." His voice was confident, buisnesslike, urging them to hurry. "I'm not going to have us shooting each other out there if you haven't ever held a gun before. Same[C]

thing with your Anomalies. If you can't do it safely, don't do it at all." His eyes swept over the three, insistent, not wanting to risk losing more of them so soon, "You will be careful. Very, very careful. We don't want to make this into any bigger of a scene than it already is. Our work is low-profile out in the world." For Cat, he had gotten a specially designed earpiece after the last time, shielded from her electrical emissions; as a prototype the sound quality was likely to be pretty crap, but it was something at least. Dexter might have hoped Jack got his drift, but he didn't know yet and didn't pick up on what the other man meant either. This was going to be the first time he led a squad out on the field himself! "The goal is arrest and capture, not to kill anyone if we can prevent it. Details coming in now..." Jack listened as the LT's voice came over the radio in his ear, and spoke out loud so the others could hear, "Target: AP attacking the Harold B Davidson[C]

Mall in Baltimore. Intel is spotty but reports of some sort of projectile-based Anomaly. Possibly a dozen or more injured."



                                                  Mine
Today will be her first mission...very first. Hell, even Em knows that she isn't ready for this and will never be ready given how much of a failure she had been in the past but...this will be a new experience. And while yes, it was funny what Dex did Emily is very nervous. Alright, time to shortcut. Turning invisible once more, Em phases through the walls until getting managing to make her way through the wall leading to where everyone else is at. "Geared" up, geared up meaning dressed and fitted with an ear peice and despite nerves being on high but no! That's pushed down in favor of listening up and listening to what Jack has to say. No weapons for her it seems but...mmm," Projectile, I can provide cover for us. My shields are not too strong just yet but I can provide cover." And maybe help to set up traps to help capture them by using the primary ability also, Em couldn't kill even if she wanted to so, no problem there. But! Ready! "Got it!" Forces the word Sir back even though there is a want to shout it out. Eyes look to both Cat and Dex and feel at ease knowing that her friends are here, they should head out now, right?


                                                              Freak

Having been quick to catch the location, without any gear or earpiece, Freak would Jolt out ahead of everyone else. He had every intention of facilitating a victory for everyone else. Whether that meant stealing the show or, at the very least, wearing down their target so that the others could have an easier time making the capture, the blue male seemed determined to get there insanely fast and do all that he could for them. It wasn't about the glory either. He cared little for that sort of thing. No, he would take all the blame later, gladly; he looked forward to it, just as long as there were no serious hickups during this or any of their initial missions. As expected, it wouldn't take him very long to get to the designated location, but unlike with his other shenanigans, he wasn't jumping right in front of a bullet train for comedic effect. This time, he was stealthily doing reconnaissance in an attempt to locate all injured civilians along with the AP Threat. . .



                                                           Cat


Standing at attention but partially at ease Cathryn put in her earpiece noticing right away that it was shielded against her powers. Listening to Jacks admonishments and the commands given, she bowed her head to him. "Yes, can't ever be too careful." She said through her earpiece testing the quality of the audio. It wasn't the greatest but every word would get through. "Any ideas on what kind of projectiles? If our target is throwing trucks at us, well that's going to be a bit problematic." Geared up and thinking of what she could do, if she could just get close to the target she could take him down with a stun charge long enough to get him in cuffs or restraints to nullify his power set if such a thing existed. "Also do we have numbers on the civilians present?" It was good to have these distractions t

o keep her focused on the mission and not the anxiety gnawing at her. Her voice certainly didn't tremble, not at all. Okay so it did, but that was too be expected right? The idea of going in with spotty intel into this mission wasn't appealing, and Cathryn didn't like the others being at risk, but this was their only option and they all should have known that. Ready to head out whenever orders were given. Cat laid a hand on Emily's shoulder and smiled as she made a bit of small talk. "I finished that book you loaned me, let me borrow another one when we get back would ya?" Sending a glance towards Jack and Dexter before he took off, she sighed to herself with a bit of worry. "Idiot." Yet there was concern in her voice, worry for their teammate. Once the rest were ready Cathryn would head out with them.


                                             Jack
"Dexter, no-" By the time those words were out, the living cartoon was gone, leaving the other three in his dust. There was even one of those little funny clouds that had been left behind to show how fast he was moving, slowly fading. Jack sighed, face growing dark, and turned that frown on the two women. "Come with me," he said flatly, so obviously unhappy that it came out in every expression, the way he stalked at a jog and began leading them back out of the section of the post that was set aside for the AP Special Forces. The sounds of a helicopter starting up came from ahead, and as soon as they arrived Jack didn't waste any time climbing on board. He did have the presence of mind to offer a hand to both Cat and Emily to help them up, directed them to strap in. "We should be there shortly," he said, still angry - angry because he was worried, "and great idea on the shields Emily. You're going to take point but if you don't feel that you can take it you shout and let us know.[C]

They've estimated a dozen, maybe more hostages inside..." He was interrupted by the LT speaking through their earpieces once more. This time they would hear him too, "And remind them what your primary objective is, Williams. Not those people." Jack made a very deep sigh, turned his eyes away from them, guilt written all over his face though, "Capture of the AP. Civilians are of secondary concern."

***MEANWHILE...at the Harold B Davidson Mall in Baltimore...***
Police and other emergency personnel had surrounded the large shopping mall soon after the first frantic calls had gone out to 911. Most of the people inside had managed to get free, and now there was a large empty circle between the cop cars in the parking lot and the massive building itself. The civilians had been moved past the perimiter, back where ambulances and reporters waited. Within the building, however, waited their quarry. And she was indeed waiting for them, the AP Special Forces specifically. A tall woman, easily six feet, with long, black nails wearing a simple suit of black cotton trousers and silk white blouse, black hair tied into a ponytail. Around her sat her hostages, 32 people altogether, men, women, and children, some injured, all watching her with utter fear...




                                                 Mine

Wait, "Dex! Don't!" Damn it, he's already gone. T-this is bad, very bad. There could be major trouble. Either he could get severely harmed or worse...or those hostages could be....no, don't think about it, even though it's the truth. Just, mind clear. Now isn't the time to be nervous or anxious. Fear only remains but it's natural to feel that but not in this sense. Be brave, follow orders. The sound of Cat questioning Jack is drowned out by trying to get herself mentally prepared and to not freak out and flake on what is a life or death situation. No, that would be the worst thing ever and now? Well, now, Cat brings the timid one back to Earth by feeling the hand on her shoulder. "O-oh! R-right, the book. Yes," Be positive. Be determined, despite everything there is a smile. "When we get back you and everything y-you c-can...b-borrow the others," Feeling relaxed, or well as relaxed as one can be in a situation like this, Em's tension is less

ened until? Oh, right! Time to go. Yeah, it's easy to tell that Jack is angry and it's understandable. Dex shouldn't have ran off like that. Sure, Jack may chew him out but he will be getting chewed out by Em as well just from worry. "No, I-I got this Jack," Once inside of the chopper, and orders are being issued out there is cause for concern. Civilians are secondary? But! Both hands ball up and brows furrow. Looking over at Cat with the same expression, that expression. No, nothing can be said due to them listening but the look that Cat is given? Anger can be picked up, innocent lives are at stake. Sure, take the AP out and capture but...no. Those people who need help...their lives matter too...despite their hatred. Anyways, once at the drop off point and lined up further orders are waiting to be had. Direction is needed. Where to go, she wants to try and find Dex but that would be dumb...very...very dumb. So instead...be silent and wait.


                                               Cat
Cathryn had been too late to even say anything to Dexter as he vanished off to head to the mall ahead of them. It was very bad indeed, the enemy was an unknown entity, which meant it was beyond dangerous to go rushing in. Strapping into the chopper and seated, she silently seethed over their orders too. Cathryn didn't agree with the orders at all, and her expression matched Emily's own. Not speaking of her own seething anger, she got off and lined up with Emily awaiting her directions as well. The layout of the mall was studied as much as possible, and she kept her eyes out for Dexter too. Still she was paying attention for instructions from Jack, as this was their first mission together she had a lot to prove. Mostly to herself, but those thoughts were put aside for now, focusing on t

heir mission she stayed silent as well. Close to Emily though Cat kept her expression neutral as possible, fighting down the nerves she felt. Oh yeah they were supposed to be the big damn heroes. What nobody told you about that was that even with powers you would feel like vomiting from anxiety. Standing at attention and looking calm outwardly, Cathryn was tempted to try and reach out to Dexter over their coms, but she didn't want to give him away if he managed to be hiding from their target. Nor did she want to be the cause of any death here today. Her red hair was tied back to keep the wind from blowing it around as they waited for any kind of plan to be formed for getting into the mall and capturing the AP while trying to keep the civilians inside safe, regardless of their orders.



                                                         Jack
Once they'd landed, Jack made his way quickly over to where another man in full Army camos, taller than him, stood, lieutenants bars on his shoulders. If he'd looked upset about the orders they'd been given before, his face darkened even further now. This was their Lieutenant Kinnerman, the soldier directly in command over the AP Special Forces, as usual already on scene and looking way too eager. "Williams, Winters, Thompson, glad you're here," Kinnerman greeted them with a smile. It was a genuine smile, yes, but the kind one might give to a favored pet rather than another human being. Jack's teeth ground audibly. "Heat scans are showing the hostages - and likely the AP - near the center of the mall," he went on, walking with them towards the large glass entrance nearby, out past the ring of cops with their weapons drawn. "We've managed to get some intel out of some witnesses that got out, and suspect this AP has some ability to shoot without a gun.[C]

Everyone agreed she wasn't armed, but saw people go down with what looked like bullet wounds." Jack put his dislike for the man aside, focused his mind back on their task, on watching everything, wanting to make sure he kept his team alive. That was his first priority, whatever Kinnerman said. Yet, after five years of this, he was going to follow orders. Jack's resistance to the program was long gone, and he'd do his best to capture the AP if possible. Only then was he likely to think about those civilians. Ah...brainwashing. "How much time do we have before the cops push in?" he asked, gesturing for Cat and Emily to stay close as they approached the mall. "This time, they're cooperating," Kinnerman said with excitement. "They'll only be sent in if you three don't check in every five minutes, got it?" [C]

Jack nodded, muttered his yes-sirs, and pulled his rifle free. Not an M-16, still in use these days, but a modified AK-47 it seemed. Cat? Emily? If you want to sit this out, I can go in alone and-" "No!" Kinnerman, who had been walking away, turned back around and countermanded that. "No, Jack, I'm not having anyone go in alone. You're all far too important. You go in as a team." Jack closed his eyes, fuming, and stood stock-still for a moment.




                                                       Mine

This, all of this is just...madness. Frist Dex is somewhere inside of that building and without the worry of someone important, there is the worry of the innocents that are being held captive. Shouldn't their lives be deemed more important than those of the AP...given what they are? This is confusing unless...no, don't think. Work, or rather "work" mode needs to be switched on and for that to happen? She has to be any semblance of..."calm." Mentally it isn't going to work but on the outside? Outside Em is a balance between calm and worry. Even with Cat being near. It...it just, no. Be calm, don't speak, remain silent just like what they told you at the last base. Told? More like drilled, be silent, don't ask questions, and always do as told. Which...give her condition

? It was almost perfect because that meant that she blended in with the crowd and wouldn't really get noticed unless it was time for mess because Em would usually be in the corner drawing but hey, uniform isn't always the best. Anyways, following alongside Jack and Cat, Em remains silent. Listening for details and what is needed to be known about the situation. So, the target is in the center with the hostages. They are able to shoot without a gun, well...sorry...SHE. She is unarmed. So, bullet projectiles? C-could her force fields handle it? Let's hope they shouldn't have to find out. But...given the situation? Maybe...maybe a sneak tactic should work? Kinnerman would not be responded to no matter how "nice"he might be but then again? Em can agree, "No,we are a team J

ack...you're our leader...if you get hurt or worse? What will we do? Besides, you're family too...we are a unit." No stuttering. She's serious, that brief burst of bravery but then it's back to being nervous. "B-b-but, no...y..y..y-you are not g-going in a-alone...D-d-dex is in there too." The five minutes check-in and the police will come in? Tch alright. Fine, "B-besides..." A look is given to the LT then back to the both of them. "umm...if s-she is in the center...a-a frontal attack w-wouldn't be the best and the hostages could get hurt as well as ourselves." Thank god for video games, right? "We have the coms to communicate. Maybe plan a formation..." Her voice gets softer, not so confident but is trying. "A-and...move then?" That actually sounded stupid, right?




                                                                 Cat

Nodding to the Lieutenant Cathryn's response was a terse but respectful. "Sir" Listening to the conversation at hand she replied at the end to the five minute check in statement. "Yes sir, five minute check ins, Sir." Jack proposed going in alone but was quickly shot down, which Cat agreed with completely. "Of course sir, We'll have his back sir." Even though it was respectful towards the LT that was walking away, she had much more respect for Jack. Concern flitted across her features as she felt the anger from Jack evidenced by the altering of the electrical signals in his body. "Jack, we need you focused, and he's right we have to work together. I know you want to keep us safe, but we're going to have to face danger eventually." Looking over to Emily briefly she fixed the woman with a serious look, then turned her gaze back to Jack. "What's the plan? If we can

get me to within ten feet, I can stun the target if she's not resistant to electricity that is." Not much of a plan but if all went well a stunning jolt of electricity would end this quickly and with a minimum of bloodshed. FIxing her gaze on Emily now and listening to her plan, she smiled encouragingly at the woman as she made a battle plan of sorts. "A formation seems like a good idea, stealth for sure seems like a fantastic idea." The idea of Jack going in alone had been shot down quickly, Cat agreed completely with the LT on this one. "So, what kind of formation are we going in with. A stealth formation might require one person to stay back to keep those check-ins coming just so the police don't ruin our chances of sneaking up on the AP." Her concerns voiced Cat waited for the plan to be finished out so they could get to work.


                                                           Jack

The worst part about it was they were right, all three of them. As unprepared as this new team was, they had to stop the AP, and Jack wasn't going to be able to manage on his own, not if she was risking using so much power to provoke this big of a reaction. With a deep breath, Jack opened his eyes and lifted his head, looked at Emily and Cat, then nodded, "Okay, let's go." He quickly pulled open the doors and strode inside so he didn't have to see the grin on Kinnerman's face. "And you're right Emily, we shouldn't do this as a frontal assault. How do you feel about playing negotiator?" Jack saw a way that maybe, just maybe they could settle this without violence. They needed a display of strength, enough that the rogue AP had to worry about what they'd done, maybe be willing to talk about letting people go and giving themselves up. The problem with his plan was if it didn't work, the civilians would be right in the middle of the crossfire.


                                              Mine

Yes, they do need him to focus and to be calm, well being calm is easier said then done. Hell, Em is trying soo hard not to break down from an overwhelming anxiety attack. Bravery, moments like these...she is brave. "S-sides Cat is right. W-we will be faced w-with danger eventually...b-but it just so happened to be right now. S-so let's come up with a plan to get the AP wi-without casualties," Sure, the others might be able to hear this but at this point? Any and all fucks are tossed to the wind. No life should be wasted because of a job. But then? Who could stay behind? She could...maybe? But...then? Who would be there to shield them? Oh...right. Right...mmm. At the let's go, she follows them

inside only to stop to glance at Cat. Could turn her invisible if it was strong enough, nnn fuck. Wait, what? Alright. Alright, don't be nervous...."Yeah, I-I can handle that. Maybe the both of you g-go in like a p-pincher formation just in case things go south?" Video games and anime for the win! It can pay off to be a nerd sometimes and? "And, I-I can do this as well," The communicator "disappears" given that it's a small object. "Not make a cause for alarm, a-and m-maybe...u-um," Face is turning red from nervous blush, "C-cat s-should be i-in a closer range a-and given the gun y-you have Jack...s-stay further back," So nervous..."S-sorry..." Right, "R-right, we got this and," Lowers her voi

ce even more. "Dex if y-you're listening...check in with the cops in five minutes...please." With renewed confidence Em salutes them both and starts walking towards the center where the AP and the hostages are, both hands are up to show that there are no weapons on her person and once Em is in what is deemed to be in a respectable distance a gentle smile is given to the other. "Heya," Start off gentle. No need to be aggressive...as if there is an aggressive bone in that body. "I'm unarmed, I would like to talk to you if that's alright, I won't move any closer." In fact, to prove that? Em sits down slowly. No sudden movements, hands still up in the air though. (1/3 for the com to be invisible.)


                                                          Cat

Jack agree with them, and then was pulling open the doors and going inside, Cat quickly followed her eyes roaming all around quickly. Checking for traps, looking for any signs of Dexter as she listened to Jack speaking about Emily being a negotiator for them. Well she was a better choice than Cathryn for that, but she didn't like the idea of Emily being at risk, nor the civilians either. Cat's capacitor was fully charged still at least. She could react quickly if things went south, but the problem was getting close to the target. Studying the layout and listening to Jack and Emily as well, she frowned softly. "I don't like this very much, but we have to act quickly. I'll follow your lead on this Jack, but Emily brings up a good point." She would stick to the plan Emily had laid out and

move in more closely to the AP, but not allowing herself to be seen yet. Saluting Emily before she set off, Cathryn couldn't help but be nervous about sending her in to negotiate, but she trusted Emily to do her best. Hoping Dex was listening and not going to do anything to put the hostages or Emily at risk. Cat paused well outside the range where she could be detected and surveyed the situation quietly, her own communicator silenced to prevent that from giving her position away. Staying silent and not moving an inch Cathryn wouldn't be powerless to act if this all went sideways. Cat stayed where she was the AP and Emily in view, along with most of the hostages, but thankfully none of them had eyes on her from this position. At least not any that Cat could see from her vantage point.


                                                    Jack

As Emily talked on, stuttering sure, Jack stopped, and put a hand on each of their shoulders to hold them up for a moment. When she was done he grinned and even chuckled, "Are you sure you haven't done this before? Yes, we need to cut off routes of escape, make sure we cover her from as many directions we can. Maybe we can make you the leader soon!" He squeezed her shoulder before letting them both go, nodding, and then jogging off on his own to make his way through the mall to come around from the rear. As he ran, he touched the earpiece and made their first checkin with Kinnerman, "Williams here. We're forming up a pincer approach, hoping to talk her down if possible." Hoping Emily would hold off long enough for them to get into position…

**Rogue AP** "Finally," the tall woman complained as Emily approached and called out to her. Around the woman's feet huddled maybe thirty or more people in terror. Some were injured and bleeding, others might be dead or unconscious, and the wails of a few children rose in the air. She looked the women and up and down, a sneering smile on her lips, "But I'm disappointed. You two were sent in? No, I'm insulted." She slowly rose one of her hands, with the long black nails that glinted with reflected light like metal, pointing in their direction. "Just what did you expect to do?"


                                                    Mine

Innocent lives are on the line and..J-jack! N-no, Em can't be a leader! J-just game stuff, video games, table top, and anime/books. So, all of this? Is taken from experience. Diplomacy is...well, can't say that it's the best thing ever but it...it will be done. Just please, dice of fate do not roll a one and no, she hasn't done this before. Don't look at them, don't. Just don't, ignore their cries and be calm. Em wants nothing more than to cry for these people but doesn't. Wait, two? So she knew? Silent and observing the woman before her and taking careful note of where the hand goes and...those nails. So, the projectiles come from the nails? There is no way to let the other two know that right now, but maybe? She could...extend a force field around the woman? It would have been in the best interest to shield the people but that would take up too

much energy and given the effort to keep the com hidden? It would be better to capture like this...but first? "I-I only wish to speak with you. It's just us. See." Points to her ears. "It's only us," That was a lie but Em is banking on her to take it at face value. "That's all, please. Let them go." Maybe...wait. Switching places...trap them both inside of a field and use invisibility to phase through the floor. No, Em just...deep breath. Mental breaths. "I'm not your enemy." But, given the injuries and possible deaths? Yeah, plan A. Around the woman a force field is formed. The walls of the field would not touch her. There is a sincere look on that face of hers. "You're in pain t-to, right? Hurting on the inside due to the Anomaly, right? Just sit down and talk with me to work out a peaceful solution. We d-don't have to kill or harm one another."





                                                            Dex

Hurried footsteps would be heard outside the AP Barracks. "I'll notify the ones here. Hurry up and find the one called Fenrir. --Aye, Sir." Quickly inspecting the Male's barracks, only to find them empty, the soldier would then abruptly enter the Female's barracks, spotting two APs within. "You two. Hurry up and gear up. You'll be sortieing with Fenrir as your unit leader. Bird's up in 10. You're ordered to meet up at the AP Briefing Room and proceed to designated target location from there. Double time it, soldiers!" His words carried both urgency and authority with them. Then, move out of the female barracks and stand by the door, expecting for them to both rush out passed him. There would be a lot of sudden activity being heard outside as well, specially that of vehicles. [c]

Meanwhile … The other soldiers from before had rushed over to a different section of the base, heading towards a certain research building facility. ID Cards already in hand, they'd have the sensor scan it, in order for the doors to unlock and let them through. Rushing up the stairs, not even waiting to use the elevators, the pair of soldiers would reach one of the testing rooms, where their target was expected to be. "Erran, your presence is immediately requested at the AP Briefing Room. You're to gear up and lead a support unit." One of the two officers handing Erran a folder containing the mission's details. "You'll be tasked with leading the unit, and having it regroup with Jack's unit, at which point he'll regain full command of both squads, in order to ensure the 'Live Capture' of a Rouge AP. The bird will be up in 7 minutes. You have your orders." [e]



                                                      Erran

The laboratory was quiet and calming to the young man; for there was something about the rythmic whirl of machinery that seemed to take one's mind from the idiocy of mortal men. Erran was busy away at a workstation when someone entered the room. He looked up from his work, removing the safety goggles he had on, and gave the soldiers a bemused stare. Before he could respond, a folder was placed in his hands, to which he flipped through quickly. He would of course read on the ride to the location. A sigh escaped his lips and he nodded briefly before shutting down the equipment in the lab. -c-

"I understand," he replied. "Leave me." Once the soldiers left, Erran would open a storage locker in the facility and pull out his exosuit, a bodysuit that hugged his form which provided a form of resistance against most harmful elements. Sliding the helmet on, he activated the onboard HUD and retrieved his modified katana from the locker. Once he was properly suited up, he'd make his way to the briefing room, folder in hands. Instictively he would chew his inner cheek, not liking the idea of working with two difficult members, but he did get the shit end of the stick for good reasons; he was once of the best. Once he entered, he would await the others. -e-



                                                                        Cat
Having managed to sneak into position, she could sort of over hear the conversation between the AP and Emily, it didn't seem to be going that well, but there was a distraction at least. Moving slowly and quietly she went far around the outside of the area the AP was holding down. Sneaking around Cathryn was soon enough on the left rear flank. Moving slowly towards the woman she had turned her com off completely now, not wanting it to give her away. Emily was doing a wonderful job so far, but the situation was tense for sure. Cathryn was careful to move quietly as possible, and to do her best to stay out of Jack's line of fire should the worst happen. With so much to be mindful of it, it was a wonder Cat hadn't given herself away yet. She was untrained for this after all, and her presence would sour the whole deal. Approaching slowly and quietly, she had hoped to be able to get wit

hin ten feet, but the cover for her ran out well before that. Stopping as close as she could get without being seen, her fingers began to glow behind her solid cover, gathering energy into him from the capacitor she had gotten into the best position she could to cover Emily. It still made her nervous to have the other woman out there trying to talk down this AP. Her powers were still largely a mystery, and she was an unknown as well. That made this more dangerous for her friend, but they were chosen to do this. Cat kept her hand still, the hum of electricity blended into the background as her fingertips crackled with it. Her power was wild and hard to control, but she could hold this for a while, and convert it to a stun charge if necessary. Of course she would have to get closer before that could happen, but she could cover the remaining ground fairly quickly if she needed to.

                                                      Ruby?


                                                               looked around, noticing the female on the bed. He'd see the strange device attached to her ankle. Yikes. What was THAT for? Maybe she'd done something? This place...Really was hell, wasn't it? He'd clench his hands into fists. These bastards. They were treating the APs like dogs in a cage. Before he could finish the thought process though, he'd notice her starting to approach him. She was...C-Cracking her knuckles? Had a rather ill look about her? OH, SHIT! He'd been caught, hadn't he?! He knew this would happen! He'd back up towards the door, hands up in innocence. "W-Wait! Wait wait wait! Th-This is a misunderstanding!" His soft, feminine voice spoke out. Yikes! She was GOOD! His own PARENTS struggled to recognize his gender! How did she-...?! Before a battle began in the women's barracks, a soldier busted into the room, causing his spine to chill as he quickly turned around and kept his hands to his sides, looking towards the soldier as he began to drill them orders.[C]

He yelled so loudly! He didn't like this at all. First, he was about to beaten up, now he was being yelled at?! He did all he could to keep tears from forming in his eyes. This was NOT his kind of environment whatsoever. "Y-Yes, sir." He'd reply quickly once the soldier had finished, seeing them leave the room. As the soldier left, he'd then look on over to the female whom was approaching him. His eyes sunk. He wouldn't waste any time in running out of the women's barracks. He was running a bit faster than a usual person would. Who wouldn't?! He had a pissed off girl on his tail! Plus, she kinda just started walking towards him with a murderous look on her face. How did he know what she was up to?! He'd run out of the room as fast as he could, but didn't go TOO fast. Maybe around 20mph. Around half of his current safe speed at the moment.[C]

He was just thankful he managed to get his shoes on just in time! Running outside while barefoot?! EEK! He'd enter the briefing room, his breathing seeming relatively normal for someone whom just ran 20mph. He'd look over towards Erran with a soft expression about him. He may have seen him once before but he couldn't recall. He definitely looked familiar to him though. He'd step forward and kept his hands behind his back, keeping his head down. He was quiet. Off to himself. Not paying much mind to anything around him at the moment. He'd simply wait for their orders to come in and...Well, do whatever he was asked to do. He wasn't even really ready to fight yet! How the hell would he properly know what to do in a battlefield?! He'd wince some, glaring a bit at the ground. This whole situation was as bad as it gets. He hadn't even gotten to eat yet...His stomach would make a soft but loud growl. His cheeks went red and he looked away in nervous anxiety. That was embarrassing...[E]

was closiing on the little guy. Her heavy boots hitting the floor, her knuckles cracking, and the sound of her leather fingerless gloves stretching were the only sounds she'd made at this point. She stops dead in her tracks as the soldier enters the barracks, and she blinks as he relays his message. She blinks at him in surprise and sighs. Let the little twerp run, she'd catch up to him later. She then turns back to her bunk and readies herself. God she hated wearing this tactical stuff, except for the boots, they were kick ass...she giggled silently at her own internal joke. Once dressed in the proper attire, wich in this case consisted of military cargo pants, and a black tee, plus her boots, she rose an inch or two off the concrete floor and moved out toward the meeting area, as she could make better time that way. When she entered room, she would plpant herself next to the blue haired male again, and tilt her head at him, it was clear she was inspecting him closely, (c)

for a moment. then she caught sight of the man in the armor. HOLY SHIT that armor looked amazingly cool. It was obvious she could care less about the mission, she yawned.


                                                                Jack


                                                  As he pushed open the door of a toy store carefully, Jack saw up ahead at the intersection the back of the AP woman. He was breathing hard, having had to run through the employee halls hidden behind the stores, to try to make it around as fast as he could. With rifle in hand he stepped out, taking aim, and walking slowly and as quietly as his boots allowed. Despite himself, he started counting the hostages and bodies. Focus on the arrest, he told himself, remembering his orders, but it didn't help him feel less guilty about it. He could barely hear Emily's voice from here, a couple dozen yards away from the terrorist, even further away from his teammate, and he couldn't see Cat. Hopefully that meant neither could their quarry. It was an easy shot from here for him, but they didn't want to harm the woman if it could be help, so for the moment he waited...and brought his foot down on a dropped potato chips bag that had been tossed aside during the initial panic...

**Rogue AP** "Oh, please," the woman said, raising her other hand to yawn dramatically. "Is that the best you have? 'A peaceful solution?' Honey, nothing peaceful about what I'm doing here." She began to smile, ever so slowly, and took a step closer to Emily. "And I figure you got friends around here somewhere. Good. The point of this was to have a little fun!" Just when she was about to open fire on Emily, the woman heard the loud crunching behind her. She whirled, turning on her heel, and there was a sudden loud pop sound rather than a bang, and five black, metal nails went shooting from her fingertips almost as fast a bullet at Jack coming up behind her. Even as she did, the madwoman began to laugh and new nails began to grow quickly on her hand.


                                                                 Mine

She has the utmost faith in her friends to pull through. Nothing but faith, and no there is no way to tell where they are, but they have to be close by. Given the formation, if one of them makes themselves know then the barrior will be dropped and they can get their captive. Sure, easy right? No, it isn't. Em is a nervous wreck, an anxious nervous wreck with a brave fact painted. Let it out later, not now. Even now as a step towards her is taken, mentally she does indeed flinch but is remaining calm on the outside. "I know, but that doesn't mean that we can not find a solution through peace," Doesn't confirm nor deny that Jack and Cat are there. Sure, but still. Then <i>POP</i> is heard and Em flinches and quickly stands up and grunts slightly as the woman open fires but the bullets hit

against one of the force field's walls only to roll harmlessly from the wall to the ground and while this is going on Em uses the distraction to speak to Cat and Jack, "Let me know when you want me to lower it," Her voice so soft...just barely below a whisper. It being the field and now? Now the com reappears. The field threatening to lower by itself but Em can only stand there to will it to be up until given the word. Cat should also be able to notice that it's up given the result. "P-please," She is pleading to the woman now. Chocolate colored eyes staring at her. "Stop, you're going to also harm yourself if you keep this up." This woman has to have some humanity left, right?


                                           Dex
Hurried footsteps would be heard outside the AP Barracks. "I'll notify the ones here. Hurry up and find the one called Fenrir. --Aye, Sir." Quickly inspecting the Male's barracks, only to find them empty, the soldier would then abruptly enter the Female's barracks, spotting two APs within. "You two. Hurry up and gear up. You'll be sortieing with Fenrir as your unit leader. Bird's up in 10. You're ordered to meet up at the AP Briefing Room and proceed to designated target location from there. Double time it, soldiers!" His words carried both urgency and authority with them. Then, move out of the female barracks and stand by the door, expecting for them to both rush out passed him. There would be a lot of sudden activity being heard outside as well, specially that of vehicles. [c]

Meanwhile … The other soldiers from before had rushed over to a different section of the base, heading towards a certain research building facility. ID Cards already in hand, they'd have the sensor scan it, in order for the doors to unlock and let them through. Rushing up the stairs, not even waiting to use the elevators, the pair of soldiers would reach one of the testing rooms, where their target was expected to be. "Erran, your presence is immediately requested at the AP Briefing Room. You're to gear up and lead a support unit." One of the two officers handing Erran a folder containing the mission's details. "You'll be tasked with leading the unit, and having it regroup with Jack's unit, at which point he'll regain full command of both squads, in order to ensure the 'Live Capture' of a

Rouge AP. The bird will be up in 7 minutes. You have your orders." [e]


                                                 Erran Castellano
The laboratory was quiet and calming to the young man; for there was something about the rythmic whirl of machinery that seemed to take one's mind from the idiocy of mortal men. Erran was busy away at a workstation when someone entered the room. He looked up from his work, removing the safety goggles he had on, and gave the soldiers a bemused stare. Before he could respond, a folder was placed in his hands, to which he flipped through quickly. He would of course read on the ride to the location. A sigh escaped his lips and he nodded briefly before shutting down the equipment in the lab. -c-

"I understand," he replied. "Leave me." Once the soldiers left, Erran would open a storage locker in the facility and pull out his exosuit, a bodysuit that hugged his form which provided a form of resistance against most harmful elements. Sliding the helmet on, he activated the onboard HUD and retrieved his modified katana from the locker. Once he was properly suited up, he'd make his way to the briefing room, folder in hands. Instictively he would chew his inner cheek, not liking the idea of working with two difficult members, but he did get the shit end of the stick for good reasons; he was once of the best. Once he entered, he would await the others. -e-



                                                          Cathryn
Having managed to sneak into position, she could sort of over hear the conversation between the AP and Emily, it didn't seem to be going that well, but there was a distraction at least. Moving slowly and quietly she went far around the outside of the area the AP was holding down. Sneaking around Cathryn was soon enough on the left rear flank. Moving slowly towards the woman she had turned her com off completely now, not wanting it to give her away. Emily was doing a wonderful job so far, but the situation was tense for sure. Cathryn was careful to move quietly as possible, and to do her best to stay out of Jack's line of fire should the worst happen. With so much to be mindful of it, it was a wonder Cat hadn't given herself away yet. She was untrained for this after all, and her presence would sour the whole deal. Approaching slowly and quietly, she had hoped to be able to get wit

hin ten feet, but the cover for her ran out well before that. Stopping as close as she could get without being seen, her fingers began to glow behind her solid cover, gathering energy into him from the capacitor she had gotten into the best position she could to cover Emily. It still made her nervous to have the other woman out there trying to talk down this AP. Her powers were still largely a mystery, and she was an unknown as well. That made this more dangerous for her friend, but they were chosen to do this. Cat kept her hand still, the hum of electricity blended into the background as her fingertips crackled with it. Her power was wild and hard to control, but she could hold this for a while, and convert it to a stun charge if necessary. Of course she would have to get closer before that could happen, but she could cover the remaining ground fairly quickly if she needed to.



                                                      Christal Blue
looked around, noticing the female on the bed. He'd see the strange device attached to her ankle. Yikes. What was THAT for? Maybe she'd done something? This place...Really was hell, wasn't it? He'd clench his hands into fists. These bastards. They were treating the APs like dogs in a cage. Before he could finish the thought process though, he'd notice her starting to approach him. She was...C-Cracking her knuckles? Had a rather ill look about her? OH, SHIT! He'd been caught, hadn't he?! He knew this would happen! He'd back up towards the door, hands up in innocence. "W-Wait! Wait wait wait! Th-This is a misunderstanding!" His soft, feminine voice spoke out. Yikes! She was GOOD! His own PARENTS struggled to recognize his gender! How did she-...?! Before a battle began in the women's barracks, a soldier busted into the room, causing his spine to chill as he quickly turned around and kept his hands to his sides, looking towards the soldier as he began to drill them orders.[C]

He yelled so loudly! He didn't like this at all. First, he was about to beaten up, now he was being yelled at?! He did all he could to keep tears from forming in his eyes. This was NOT his kind of environment whatsoever. "Y-Yes, sir." He'd reply quickly once the soldier had finished, seeing them leave the room. As the soldier left, he'd then look on over to the female whom was approaching him. His eyes sunk. He wouldn't waste any time in running out of the women's barracks. He was running a bit faster than a usual person would. Who wouldn't?! He had a pissed off girl on his tail! Plus, she kinda just started walking towards him with a murderous look on her face. How did he know what she was up to?! He'd run out of the room as fast as he could, but didn't go TOO fast. Maybe around 20mph. Around half of his current safe speed at the moment.[C]

He was just thankful he managed to get his shoes on just in time! Running outside while barefoot?! EEK! He'd enter the briefing room,
his breathing seeming relatively normal for someone whom just ran 20mph. He'd look over towards Erran with a soft expression about him. He may have seen him once before but he couldn't recall. He definitely looked familiar to him though. He'd step forward and kept his hands behind his back, keeping his head down. He was quiet. Off to himself. Not paying much mind to anything around him at the moment. He'd simply wait for their orders to come in and...Well, do whatever he was asked to do. He wasn't even really ready to fight yet! How the hell would he properly know what to do in a battlefield?! He'd wince some, glaring a bit at the ground. This whole situation was as bad as it gets. He hadn't even gotten to eat yet...His stomach would make a soft but loud growl. His cheeks went red and he looked away in nervous anxiety. That was embarrassing...[E]


                                               Ruby Wilson
was closiing on the little guy. Her heavy boots hitting the floor, her knuckles cracking, and the sound of her leather fingerless gloves stretching were the only sounds she'd made at this point. She stops dead in her tracks as the soldier enters the barracks, and she blinks as he relays his message. She blinks at him in surprise and sighs. Let the little twerp run, she'd catch up to him later. She then turns back to her bunk and readies herself. God she hated wearing this tactical stuff, except for the boots, they were kick ass...she giggled silently at her own internal joke. Once dressed in the proper attire, wich in this case consisted of military cargo pants, and a black tee, plus her boots, she rose an inch or two off the concrete floor and moved out toward the meeting area, as she could make better time that way. When she entered room, she would plpant herself next to the blue haired male again, and tilt her head at him, it was clear she was inspecting him closely, (c)

for a moment. then she caught sight of the man in the armor. HOLY SHIT that armor looked amazingly cool. It was obvious she could care less about the mission, she yawned.





                                            Jack

As he pushed open the door of a toy store carefully, Jack saw up ahead at the intersection the back of the AP woman. He was breathing hard, having had to run through the employee halls hidden behind the stores, to try to make it around as fast as he could. With rifle in hand he stepped out, taking aim, and walking slowly and as quietly as his boots allowed. Despite himself, he started counting the hostages and bodies. Focus on the arrest, he told himself, remembering his orders, but it didn't help him feel less guilty about it. He could barely hear Emily's voice from here, a couple dozen yards away from the terrorist, even further away from his teammate, and he couldn't see Cat. Hopefully that meant neither could their quarry. It was an easy shot from here for him, but they didn't want to harm the woman if it could be help, so for the moment he waited...and brought his foot down on a dropped potato chips bag that had been tossed aside during the initial panic...

**Rogue AP** "Oh, please," the woman said, raising her other hand to yawn dramatically. "Is that the best you have? 'A peaceful solution?' Honey, nothing peaceful about what I'm doing here." She began to smile, ever so slowly, and took a step closer to Emily. "And I figure you got friends around here somewhere. Good. The point of this was to have a little fun!" Just when she was about to open fire on Emily, the woman heard the loud crunching behind her. She whirled, turning on her heel, and there was a sudden loud pop sound rather than a bang, and five black, metal nails went shooting from her fingertips almost as fast a bullet at Jack coming up behind her. Even as she did, the madwoman began to laugh and new nails began to grow quickly on her hand.




                                      Erran Castellano

As the two entered, Erran looked up from the folder and offered them a soft smile. The once testy male with the arrogant attitude was gone, and the people-person CEO was taking his place. For a moment he was silent, only measuring them and taking in their physical worth. Placing the folder under his arm, he'd cross his arms over his chest and wait for the soldiers to leave the three alone. Once they were gone, his stance relaxed a little and he sighed. "So I'll be frank," he began. "I don't enjoy working for Uncle Sam as much as the other guy, but we have a job to do. My name is Erran, and I'll be leading us to meet with the other squad where Jack will take back over in this mission. I'm not going to boss you around, or belittle you in the field, but I would like to work as a team; not because it'll make our lives easier, but because I'd prefer none of us to come out hurt at the end of all of this." -c-

Erran reached into one of the many pockets on his exosuit and produced a flask before taking a swig. It was then he would approach the two, and offer them a drink if they liked; it was whiskey, smooth with hints of caramel and vanilla. Obviously something on the expensive side. "I'm not gonna lie, it may be dangerous and you guys haven't had much field work, but I'm not expecting the world from you....just to do what you can without endangering yourselves too much. Now in the field, I ask that you call me by my callsign, "Fenrir". I need you two to come up with a nickname of sorts for communication purposes, to hide your identity, if you can't come up with one I'll give you something temporary until you can decide on your own. I picked Nightingale for Ruby and Little Blue for Christal, again, feel free to tell me to fuck off and pick your own." -c-

It was then that he would escort the two to the chopper, where he would open the door and let them step in first. Jumping in, he'd close the door and place one of the headsets on to allow more communication, indicating that they would pick a private channel to talk. He eyed Ruby and offered her a smirk, pointing to her boots. "Nice set of leathers there," he commented. "Do they kick much ass?" He laughed, and it was offsetting how warm and welcoming the sound may have been to the two rookies. It was then that he looked to Christal and offered the same smile, one that was boyish and disarming. "And when we get back, if you ever need a friend to talk about things...I'm here for you. Ok?" -e-

                                           Christal Blue

would keep his head down. He was in deep thought once again. He did that a bit too often, didn't he? Yeah...As he did this, he'd finally look up over to Erran once more with that flush of red still in his cheeks. He'd then notice Ruby nearby as well, his heart sinking as his eyes sunk and he began to shiver some. He'd keep his head down once more, letting his blue hair cover his eyes. As he did this, he'd hear Erran begin to speak. He was offered Whiskey?...Oh dear. Was he even old enough for that stuff? Well...It's not like anyone was around to protest against it. He'd never drank alcohol before so this would be his first time. He'd take a sip from it once. He wasn't sure if Ruby would too but he at least tried. It...Tasted really sweet. It actually kind of helped calm his already on-edge nerves. He'd still keep his head down though. He'd nod softly to everything Erran said. At least he wasn't alone in how he felt...[C]

And it seemed he wasn't the only one who couldn't stand these bastards treating them all like dogs. That felt...Nice, at least. He'd still keep his head down though. Once the chat was done and they were led to the chopper, he'd obviously keep his distance from Ru-Er...Nightingale. Yeah. Perhaps he should mentally refer to her as that, at least out in the field, right? As he found himself a seat, he couldn't help but feel nervous as Ruby sat close by. He was quite terrified of her...How could he not be? After everything prior, it was hard for him not to be terrified of everything around him right now. Due to this setup, he'd simply look out of the helicopter's window and kept his silence. A few tears left his eyes as he sat there in deep thought. He'd tried to keep those tears back but it just wouldn't hold anymore. He'd gulp once and try to rub the tears away from his eyes. When Erran looked over to him with that warm smile...He wasn't exactly sure how to respond.[C]

He'd simply nod lightly and kept looking out of the window. He wanted to say "thank you" like a normal person...But it just didn't come out. He was far too afraid, nervous and even emotionally boiling. He wanted to just storm on out on his own...But that'd just get him killed so...He didn't get that luxury. He had to just bite his tongue and keep himself in line. Like a good dog...That thought...He'd shake his head. He couldn't afford to put the helicopter and those in it in jeopardy. He still wasn't sure about the sheer extent of his aura's power. He'd burnt Jack with it but in some ways, Jack was extremely lucky. Most would've had intense 3rd degree burns down to the bone. Really scary stuff. He remembered doing it a fellow AP once back in New Home by accident. It made him horrified of himself for a while and because of this, the woman who saved him taught him breathing exercises...Along with a few "other" things. It was through this woman that he found out about his other..."[C]

Ability". One that he was still a tad nervous about doing in public. Sure, his parents were superstars but that didn't change his shy personality much. If it was Jaica, maybe...But definitely not him![E]



                                                          Cat
Things weren't going great, but she was in a decent position still. At least until that loud crunching noise sounded from Jacks direction. Her com reactivated now, she whispered softly to Emily. "I'm coming, let it down when I'm close enough to touch her, it can handle her firing right?" Without waiting for a reply Cat was up and moving, low and fast, but as silently as possible. Sticking to cover when she could, but before long she was exposed. Only the fact that the AP was facing the other way gave her an advantage. She was making plenty of noise though as her fingertips were crackling with electricity. Once out in the open she put on more speed. It was probably not the smartest thing, but she was thinking that if she could just get close enough she could stun the AP. Sure she was untrained, and showing it, but something had to be done before someone got hurt. Cat was sure to be visible to Emily by now and was almost within touching distance of the AP, the hostages were panicking still so they hadn't given her away yet, but there were tons of ways this could go wrong. Fortunately cat had quick reflexes on her side, and could only count on them to get her out of the way of those fingernails if they were fired. Committed fully to this headstrong and probably stupid course of action, Cat closed a bit more distance, almost within touch range, and for the moment not detected yet, but that could change at any second really.




                                                        Ruby


Declined the sip of alcohol with a raised hand in the universal "no thanks" signal. The last time she'd drank she did the AP version of drunk dialing, wich meant she flattened a building, and was found sitting in the middle of the rubble crying. She arched a brow at her callsign. Nightingale...that was one of those ironic names, wasn't it? since she couldn't sing a note, kinda like when you call the fat guy tiny, or the little guy...big guy. She followed Fenrir to the helo, and tilted her head as he spoke, giving him a smirk when he asked about her boots. She nods and gives him a thumbs up. She looks at the blue haired male ad frowns, was he crying? She rolls her eyes, not understanding what he was thinking, then she nudges him. She pulls out a black ponytail holder and pulls her blue hair hair back. She motions at Fenrir by pointing at herself, then making the "duck bill" with her hand in front of her mouth, then shaking her head. She felt he already knew (c)

but she wanted to make sure he knew. She then made the gun sign and shook her head again. They hadn't trusted her enough to issue her any kind of weapon, mainly because of the whole scitzophrenia theory the scientists had going. She then nods at the man's sword with a questioning expression.



                                                     Erran

As the chopper took off, Erran simply watched the two before sitting back in his seat to read over the dossier. Before getting lost in its pages, he looked to Ruby and nodded before his hands moved to sign to her. Erran himself was versed in many languages, ASL was one of them. Reaching into one of his packs, he produced a device that looked similar to the standard earpiece they each received however it bore the trademark of his company on it. "Replace this with your current earpiece and it'll not only allow you to hear on the proper channels we have, but it sends a broadcast to my internal HUD. It picks up on the intentionally vibrations sent from your vocal chord movements, and interprets the information before translating it to text via real time." The male would tap the helmet before holding out the earpiece to her. -c-

Once that was done, he would tap his abdomen and the metallic plating would depressurize and open to reveal a set of sidearms with magazines, two each. Pulling them from their internal holsters, he would hand one to each of them. While there was a risk in, Erran had to establish some trust with the two. It was then that he would show them how to properly load, and utilize the weapon without firing a shot. From there, he would pull two combat knives from a pocket and hand those out as well. "I know you two aren't experienced in much warfare," he began. "But for now this will have to do, I'll teach you guys more tricks when we return to base. If you need to use the knives, focus on stabs; they're harder to predict and to counteract. Again, don't put yourselves in danger, and if you need to find me; I'll protect you." -e-




                                                  Christal

would feel Ruby's nudge, jerking out of his thoughts, looking up to her softly. He wasn't sure what that was for...Maybe to knock him back into reality? Maybe...He still wasn't sure what she was gonna do to him. As this happened, he'd notice Erran speaking to Ruby and then, ultimately, both of them. He'd see the gun and knife. His eyes sunk. G-G-Guns?...Kn-Kn-Knives?...Oh god. He'd never used those sorts of things before. He'd thought that'd never actually happen to him. How could he ever?! He'd never thought in a million years he'd be part of an army. All of this was happening so fast but he accepted the weaponry regardless. As Erran showed them how to utilize the gun...He'd try to keep up, but made rather pathetic sounds of loss when he tried to remember it all. He'd look the gun over slowly. He'd start to shake a little bit. He-...He wasn't going to be made to kill someone, was he? Oh god...H-He couldn't do that. No. Nonono. That wasn't like him at all.[C]

He wasn't about to say anything back to Erran in protest but if one were to look at expressions, they could tell that his face was one of pure and utter terror. He'd shiver some and looked over to Ruby and then Erran once again. His eyes were the eyes of a lost little boy...Or girl, depending on how one saw him. This wasn't something he could pull himself to do. Ever. He'd have to though or he'd probably be shot down for being "useless". He'd shake his head and kept his head down once again. Maybe he WAS useless? He wasn't sure about it anymore. So much happened in such little time that it was nearly impossible to keep up. And this was coming from a boy who could run at 100mph. As he kept his head down, he'd gaze at the knife and the gun in both his hands. Was this his life now? To serve a bunch of people he didn't even know against his will like some kind of slave? He'd shake his head once more. He'd have to stop. The thoughts in his mind were going mad.[C]

He'd put the knife and gun down nearby and then proceeded to hold his face into his hands, letting out a terrified and sorrowful sigh. He was losing it. He'd have to try and pull himself together somehow...But how? He couldn't dance in the helicopter. He couldn't-...Well, there was one thing he could do. It probably wouldn't help but it was worth trying at the very least. He'd move his hands off of his face and then clasped his hands together, clenching them into fists and placing his hands in-front of his face in a prayer position. His eyes stayed closed. One would probably think he was now praying. Maybe he was...But it was also helping him do something else. He'd need total and utter concentration. For a good whole minute. If he managed that much...He'd get a pretty hefty boost in his abilities. That could come in handy because this mission could end up proving difficult. He just hoped it'd help him with his emotional state.[C]

He'd try to remember the woman's words but also reflected on the emotional/physical training she'd given him. "When in times of great pain and sorrow...Look within your heart and realize that happiness and peace reside within you. You need only bring it forward with your determination. Your will. Your resolve." These words echoed in his mind but were not spoken. Tears left his eyes once again, his eyes twitching, signaling to Ruby and Erran that he was indeed struggling to keep his cool. In a few moments though...His facial expression began to calm. He'd have to focus on this hard. For an entire minute. Otherwise, he'd lose his focus and it would mean nothing.[E]



                                                               Ruby

nodded at Fenrir, then tested the device. Her mouth moved, but no sound came out. The device would send "testing 1-2-3" to his HUD. If it worked, she would be elated, and if she lived through this mission, she would see about getting one of these modified to emit a voice from a worn speaker, or something. She perks a brow as she is handed a sidearm, then a knife and nods at Fenrir as he shows her how to use the weapon. She then directs her attention to little blue, tilting her head curoiously as he abviously freaks out and then begins to pray. "Not a bad idea, really," she thinks to herself, the looks out the window at the landscape going by. She asks Fenrir "so what's the deal with your sword? Are you a ninja or something? And how can i get some kickass armor?" she really liked being able to communicate, obviously .


                                                         Christal Blue
He'd simply nod lightly and kept looking out of the window. He wanted to say "thank you" like a normal person...But it just didn't come out. He was far too afraid, nervous and even emotionally boiling. He wanted to just storm on out on his own...But that'd just get him killed so...He didn't get that luxury. He had to just bite his tongue and keep himself in line. Like a good dog...That thought...He'd shake his head. He couldn't afford to put the helicopter and those in it in jeopardy. He still wasn't sure about the sheer extent of his aura's power. He'd burnt Jack with it but in some ways, Jack was extremely lucky. Most would've had intense 3rd degree burns down to the bone. Really scary stuff. He remembered doing it a fellow AP once back in New Home by accident. It made him horrified of himself for a while and because of this, the woman who saved him taught him breathing exercises...Along with a few "other" things. It was through this woman that he found out about his other..."[C]

Ability". One that he was still a tad nervous about doing in public. Sure, his parents were superstars but that didn't change his shy personality much. If it was Jaica, maybe...But definitely not him![E]



                             Jack
Jack winced at the noise he made, then jumped back as the woman turned on him and tried to shoot him with her...nails? Luckily Emily had already gotten her forcefield up, a seeming prison around the woman. "Well...that was easier than expected," Jack said, and began to stride forward once more, though still with weapon at the ready. "Go on everyone, get out of here!" With that, the civilians began to flee, some helping others that were wounded, even dragging their friends or loved ones along with them. Jack wore a crooked grin as he saw Cat approaching from the AP's side, no doubt ready to act like a living taser to bring this one down. Not bad at all! "Well, sorry to disappoint, but we're not here for any games. You're coming with us."

**Rogue AP** If she was mad about the forcefield that had blocked her shot, she didn't show it, staring at Jack with a crazed grin twisting her lips up. In just a few seconds those nails had grown back and she looked ready to fire again. Instead, she tested the forcefield with the tips of those dangerous nails. "You lot are the one with the fetish for living in cages," she mocked them. "Bored of this now too. Let's play hide n' seek! Out of the mall is out of bounds!" With another fierce grin tossed over her shoulder back at Emily she added, "And if I find you..." She pointed a finger gun at Emily, winked, and then suddenly vanished in a flash of light. Had she gone invisible perhaps? There didn't seem to be anything in the force field anymore. Or had she gotten out with that display of power?

AN!
IDK when my computer decided it wanted to fuck off so I'm sorry if this seems disjointed. Doing my best here, sorry.


                                                Christal Blue
sat there with Ruby and Erran. It indeed looked like he was praying. With everything going on, he'd manage to keep his concentration. That was exactly what he wanted. As the helicopter landed and Erran and Ruby stepped out...Something new began to happen to Christal. His power was now beginning to shine...Quite literally. Upon opening his eyes, one would notice that the dull sapphire color had become a more fierce color of light blue. Those eyes were also glowing! Whoa! How was THAT happening?! Aura, sweety. It was a freaky power. Along with this glow, his pupils also seemed very different. Looking almost like a pair of intense, blue cat eyes. Along with this, his body was covered in a harmless but somewhat powerful blue flame. It didn't reach out too-too far. It seemed to only really outline his body but it was very easy to notice. Along with these physical changes, there was also quite an attitude change. Christal's anxiety and fear seemed to just...Wash away.[C]

He seemed much more focused and even perceptive. Pinpointing every single aura's signature in a one mile radius. To him, it was like a radar of different and varying energy signals. Each signal had its own rhythm, color and personality. He could feel all of these things. It didn't overwhelm him though. No. He seemed relatively calm about it even. He could also feel each aura's emotion...Some were scared. Some were angry. Some were relieved. Some were...Grieving. He'd frown but only for a brief moment before Erran touched his shoulder. He'd look up to Erran softly with those now far more "mature" eyes. He'd then nod. His actions and words were no longer determined by anxiety, fear or sorrow. "Thank you, Fenrir..." He'd bow his head softly, his blue hair covering his glowing eyes before he raised his back up, those glowing eyes looking up towards Erran once more. He'd then holster the gun and knife given to them earlier into their respective holsters on his Special Forces suit.[C]

At least the suits were prepared for this sort of equipment preemptively. He'd try to gauge the situation, his glowing eyes looking side to side. "...Who's the target?" He'd ask in a simple, more mature tone. Though his voice was still very much soft and feminine, it had a much more..."Serious" tone to it now. The change in Christal's attitude and demeanor would be quite easy to notice to even the untrained eye. It was almost like he was a totally different Christa-Erm...Little Blue! He wasn't though, that's just how deep in focus he was in now. Kinda freaky in some ways. That aura could change someone's personality in such a way so quickly. He seemed relatively comfortable about it at least.[E]



                                                Jack
Well...shit." Jack sighed and started to look around, guessed at what other tricks this one had up her sleeve. Another one that seemed to have gone crazy with their powers, not burned themselves out, but definitely letting their abilities to go to their head. "Alright, we need to-" Today was just his day for being interrupted it seemed! POP! Again came the sound of the woman firing her metal spikes, and Jack instinctively ducked. Cat wasn't so lucky though. "Down down!" Jack had tossed his rifle to the ground near the table she lay over, grabbed Cat up in his arms, and shoved the table onto it's side with a heave from his boot on the side. Within seconds he had Cat laid out behind the makeshift shelter, wondered how good it would do them if shots could suddenly come from anywhere. Some of the remaining civilians took cover themselves once again, some shouted, others cried in terror or tried to be quiet, hoped not to be the next target. He took a second to feel for Cat's[C]

Cat's pulse, then at the back of her head to inspect how bad things were; there was already a knot growing from the impact but thankfully her skull hadn't cracked open. Only then did he pick back up his rifle, set it against his shoulder, and started scanning around for her once more. Just then, voices started up on the comms. A sigh of relief was held back when he heard Erran's voice, and backup with him too! Then the LT, with his updates and damn instance on bringing this one in alive. Jack started to speak over Kinnerman as soon as he got to the bit about disappointment. "Hey, sorry to interrupt the monologue, but one of us is down for the count at the center-most intersection, and another unaccounted for. Be advised: confirmation on the second Anomaly; we got a teleporter!" And something else bothered him, about what she'd said about cages...she knew about the squad.

**Rogue AP** "Come and get me..." came the woman's voice over the mall's speakers, giving a clue as to her position. She sounded manic, perhaps from the exertion of using her abilities, perhaps from the fun of her game, or both. "One down, and two to go!"


                                                         Erran

blinked when Fenrir made mention of how much his armor costed. Obviously she was going to have to make payments on that kind of thing. She looks at Little blue and grins, now he was manning up! She was curious about his powers, but that conversation would come later. She slips the gun and knife into thier holsters, and follows Fenrir to the on site HQ for instructions. She looks around at all the innocents that were evacuated, and remembers thier faces. She begins to get a bit angry, and the ground under her boots gives way, making her sink into it a little. When she eventually steps away, two boot prints will be left where she was standing. As fir now, she listens to the description of the offender, and what is known about her. Was this woman a teleporter? She'd heard of them, but never seen themfor real. How would that even work?


With some newfound confidence, Erran couldn't help but smile at Christal. There was a smirk on his face which quickly faded once he heard of the attack on Duracell. The male quickly ran towards the sounds of conflict, his enhanced speed would have made it possible to close the distance in a matter of seconds, but he was slow to allow the other two to catch up. With his weapon still ready to draw, he eventually moved towards Jack's position and linked up with the group. "Little Blue and Nightingale," he introduced them once more. "Jack is taking over now." There was a pause as he heard the voice come on the intercom and he sighed, of course it would be one that liked playing games. "Is Kinnerman hoping to shock therapy the crazy out of this one? What's the call, Jack?"


                                                        Em

Now what? What to do? What to do? Get it together Em, now isn't the time to freak out over the rouge disappearing, not at all. Keep your head in the game Em. Keep it in the...Cat? It happened too fast and Cat she...she..."C-cat!" Eyes start to water while anxiety and panic is on the rise and it's like the event all over again. Both parents staring up at her with dead eyes and blood...no, don't go back there. Because if she went back there? The order to get down would not have been heard and yes, there is enough time to move and that's what she does. Getting down but eyes are still on her friend. The urge to cry...to get angry....no, it's anger. Both fists ball up while trying to will another forcefield around them but nothing happens. Tries again, but once more? Nothing happens. Oh, reinforcements and it's Erran and the one person that has yet to be met and a new one? "...n-n..nice t-to meet you...Emily..." Voice is softer than normal while trying to bottle up the anger welling up. Two more to go? Tch, whatever...Em is silent and waiting for Jacks's orders.
                                                    Ruby

watched as Ruby and Erran looked towards him. They seemed happier. That was good, at the least. They clearly needed as many stable-minded people as they could get. They were all having their own internal battles so having someone who can think straight was quite a rarity right now. He didn't smile. Rather, he'd simply nod to them lightly. Once Erran sped off towards Jack, he'd begin to follow Erran but opting to do so at a slower, more human rate as he didn't want to just leave Ruby behind. He no longer feared her...For now. That would change once his focus time was up but that was an issue for later. For now, he'd take his time in following behind Erran alongside Ruby. To just ZOOM towards Erran was reckless. He was able to be smart enough to realize this before making a stupid move. He also needed to ensure that he wouldn't run into anyone nearby as this place was rather packed.[C]
Once he, and more than likely Ruby, made it to Erran's position, he'd see Erran speaking to Jack about what to do next. He'd hear something about "crazy". The person they were looking for was crazy? He'd try to pinpoint an emotionally unstable aura. If the woman they were trying to apprehend was within one mile from his position in or out of the building, Christal would be able to pinpoint their position instantaneously and thus lead the others straight to her. Though he was indeed worried about Emily and Cathryn's condition, he couldn't break his focus right now. He'd have to focus it on trying to find the woman's aura for now.[E]