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At least 16GB of main DRAM.
These stats may change as we continue to test.
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Grace had giggled a little-- yes, giggled-- at the question about Nick's other bots. She has only met the two of them, but thinking about Maddie usually brings up her sense of humor. She flicks a highly amused glance at Nick, adding, "Yeah-- Maddie's really energetic. You have to watch out, she likes to tackle Nick..." She smothers another amused sound.
Grace then shyly addresses Sam's staring, adding on to Wren's comments, "...Wren and I have to eat a lot-- when we're hurt, especially, or have been flying a lot. It takes a lot of... energy?" She blushes, knowing that her expenditure of all her energy at once is what got her in this predicament. Feeling shy, she grows quiet again, her glance skittering over Tobias just long enough to make her blush a bit more and focus on her plate again.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Sam blinks at the direct question, having been thoroughly wrapped up in Grace's explanation, before smiles to Wren, blushing some and tucking a wayward lock of strawberry blonde hair behind her ear, almost confessing, "I know it's probably not the most obvious choice looking at me, but I'm majoring in Physical Sciences with the interest of getting into Astronomy. Blame Carl Sagan. His tv shows got me into it."
Alan smiles reassuringly, nodding to his daughter and replying, "Thankfully I'm not one of those fathers that demands his children follow in his footsteps. If either Tobi or Sam had wanted to become doctors? I'd gladly support it, but it looks like I'll wind up with my very own Neil DeGrasse Tyson."
Tobias seems a little thoughtful at the subject of careers, study and the future in general, peering at the light reflecting from his knuckles, finally huffing a laugh and adding,
"And I'll...Well, I'll just have to figure something out. Never really considered I'd actually live to see today, so...Guess I'll have to pick a path at some point."
Alan smiles gently, shaking his head and offering,
"I don't think anyone would reasonably expect you to immediately have a direction for your life a day after it's changed so radically, Tobi. Give it time. You'll find your calling."
With a nod of agreement, Tobias then chuckled and retorted,
"Well, I'm really good and breaking high-end military tech. Wonder if there's a calling out there for that?"
Nick stays quiet, listening to the conversation around him, but when Tobias states the last comment, Nick laughs and nods, "Testing of experimental military equipment. But I don't know how well you'd get paid."
Nick then looks over at Sam, answering her comment about her choice of study, "I'm glad you chose something you liked instead of something expected of you. Takes a little bit of courage to do that." Nick's eyes shimmer with understanding, a small smile on his face that practically said, 'You shouldda SEEN the look on the prof's face when I walked in to his class at half the age of most people there. Priceless.'
Wren looks at Tobi, her expression sobering.
"You know... I was thinking about taking you to the Maul to get some precision work done, and then take you and Grace on patrol with me. I'm registered... have been all my life, really... and I have my own route that I take. I can even fly you, or let Grace fly you by decreasing your mass. Think about it."
She turns her gaze to Alan, "Mind if I rummage around in your kitchen to whip us up a dessert?" She smiles happily, clearly content.
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace tensed perceptibly at the thought of going out on patrol-- on purpose. What on Earth would she even -do-, except get in the way? A niggling thought reminds her that she -can- shoot a bow, and she happens to have a very nice, if complicated one, at home that she could practice with...
"...Maybe I should have somebody bring me my bow, so I can practice while I get better..." she murmurs, scooping up the last of her Napoli sauce on a finger and popping said finger into her mouth. She feels relaxed of body after her meal, instead of tired, which is a pleasant change. Though... she could've plead exhaustion and escaped back to the Guest House... Not one to be dishonest, she simply sits back in her chair and relaxed, flicking her dark blue gaze around the table shyly.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Sam nodded in agreement with Nick, a smile lighting up on her face at the fact somebody got it. "Yeah, safe to say there were a few surprised looks when I showed up in the Physical Sciences lecture hall." She frowned rather derisively, adding "Not to mention a few whispers of 'is the cheerleader lost or something?' Super annoying."
She sighs, shaking her head at the pithy comments, before gesturing to Tobias, who nodded, intrigued,
"Actually, I [i]would[/i] like an opportunity to see what I'm actually capable of at some point. Not sure if the 'Maul' has the gear for that, but you made it sound like it does."
His eyes swung to Grace, eyes meeting hers, accompanied by a smile before flitting down again in a gentle glow of embarrassment, her expression perceptively thoughtful for a moment before she suggested the idea of having her bow brought to her,
"Hey, that sounds like a great idea! We've got plenty of room in the yard, and I'm sure we can find something that'll work as an adequate target. That and It'd be interesting to watch you shoot."
The fact that she was at least proficient with a bow was news to Tobias, and anything that she might consider herself adept was was something he had a mind to encourage...because, y'know, it was good to encourage people...yeah, that was it.
Alan thumbed his chin gently, nodding in agreement,
"That, and it'd be an excellent rehabilitation exercise...." *He trails off as Wren asks to commandeer the kitchen again, a smile and a nod following, "Of course, Wren. Help yourself."
His attention comes back to his son, gesturing to him,
"Actually, I had a brief chat with Dr. Price not long after I woke up. She suggested that hydrotherapy might be beneficial for strengthening your motor neurons, specifically in regard to your legs."
Tobi seemed a little surprised by that, blinking before Samantha decided to sneak in a comment,
"Might wanna buy some bigger board shorts then, big guy. I don't think the ones you had from before are gonna fit...or maybe they'll fit a little TOO well..."
Nick listens, and answers to Tobias's statement, "Yeah, they've got some pretty hefty equipment in the Maul danger room. You won't have to worry about breaking anything you aren't supposed to. If it can handle Levi, it can handle most anyone."
Levi nods, "The building is of sound structural integrity, and it provides a much needed escape from holding back against enemies. I find it...relaxing."
Nick makes an amused sound at Sam's last comment, but doesn't add a snarky response to tease Tobias even more.
Wren grins, and wanders off into the kitchen. A thoughtful look is on her face as she leaves, her wings flexing slightly. Clearly she has something on her mind.
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace fidgetted uncomfortably-- in contrary in to the -slight- smile on her face, though she didn't look up from her plate. She crosses knife and fork daintily on a plate so clean it could only be cleaner if she licks it... and it looks like she's considering it for a moment or two.
Grace flicked up her gaze to watch Wren wander into the kitchen... then settled into a round of covert looks at Tobias, watching him curiously from beneath lowered lashes. It was strange to see someone with their face like that-- with the metal sticking out here and there-- but it doesn't seem to bother him any. She hadn't known what to expect from the boy after he emerged from the Sarcophagus. There just wasn't time to sit and have a chat in the middle of that crisis. So, it seemed sort of natural, now that she was awake enough to remember any observations she made, to listen and watch. Just what kind of person was he?
The winged girl smiles a little, reaching out a fingertip to push the tiniest smear of risotto around on her plate, flicking another curious glance up at Tobias. She supposes he must take more after his father, looking at the two... His sister must take after their mother, as her eyes and hair were nothing like either of the males in the family. Her smile disappears as she wonders what happened to his mother. She can only ask him, to find out-- but... Maybe she'll wait on that, for awhile...
Grace is quiet for a time, sobered by that thought.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias in the meantime had managed to tune out the vast majority of the conversation flying around his ears by this point, watching as Grace demurely glanced at him, then looked away, glanced, then looked away, obviously deep in thought about something...and likely something involving him. It was strange to think that someone as thoroughly pretty as she was could be so demure, so humble about herself. From wings to face to all points in between, it seemed as though she'd been blessed with the same angelic beauty that her wings would've blatantly broadcasted....and yet she showed absolutely no arrogance about it at all.
That, was a thoroughly intriguing and equally enamouring trait, to say the least, he'd decided.
He'd occasionally lifted his gaze from his empty plate, luminous eyes meeting hers and steel plates catching the light, each only serving to augment the warm smile that crossed the table and to halt in front of her, bow cordially and return, offering his interest without seeming slimy or possessed of ulterior motive. After all, after a life of looking Death in the eyes, what room did he have for falsities?
His eyes scan the room, from the merry face of his sibling, to his father, to Wren and Nick and Levi...He'd known half of them for less time than a nightly news story...but already, already they'd become something worth protecting...and if he knew one thing, he had the strength, the heart and the soul to do so.
Nick ate, but not with as much fervor as most of the people at the table. His appetite was more...tame than the rest. Except for Alan or Samantha. He munched steadily on the meal, glancing about the table when he could, but he was mainly thinking, as he always was. This time it wasn't quite on any one thing, as his mind kept wandering from any topic he tried to focus on. It kept coming back to Grace and Wren being injured. He just...really wanted to apologize for not being there to help them, but he hadn't found any spare moment of it just being the three of them. He tried to shrug off the negative feeling, knowing Grace would most likely feel it, but it's undercurrent remained.
He tried to focus on what was going on around him. He listened to conversation and the noises of eating alike, glancing around the table to scan faces and read lips. Once he noticed the two lovebirds taking quite the interest in each other, he almost made a loud, exaggerated club to remind them who was sitting next to them, but decoded against his better judgement. He positively bristled at the decision, but left it be. It was up to Grace. She was her own person. Nick just hoped she wouldn't get hurt.
Samantha flicks a glance between Tobias and Grace, a wry smile crossing her lips as she slowly got up from the table, perhaps somewhat deliberately squeaking her chair, causing Tobi to twitch, as if coming out of a daydream, his gaze flicking downward, then to his right as Sam offered to take his plate from him. He managed a sheepish nod, then, picking up on a distinct ringing in his ears, he turned to realise that the TV in the kitchen had been switched on, the prattle of the evening news seeming to filter in one ear and out the other as his attention returned to Grace across the table again. It felt like he'd not had a chance to properly speak to her since they'd gotten clear of the lab. He had so many questions but they seemed like ones better destined for quieter moments.
"In other news, two Department of Corrections vehicles, carrying twenty-seven newly processed inmates from the Highpoint attack yesterday became the target of a precision strike this afternoon while in transit to Santiago-Yuri Island. At a TCPD media conference, Deputy Chief Gherrenfur made the following announcement..."
The footage cuts to the Deputy Chief standing at a podium in dress blues, his speech measured, clear and concise,
"I'm happy to report that no members of the Department of Corrections or the TCPD were killed in the attack. Several officers were wounded, but are expected to make a full recovery...Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the Inmates in transit. At this juncture, I have confirmation that all twenty-seven of them succumbed to the wounds they sustained in the attack. The TCPD will be deploying all the resources it can to investigate the motive and the identities of those responsible. Be it vigilantism or pure, criminal activity, those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. In the meantime, all inmate transport convoys will have their security doubled as well as the deployment of armored vehicles to facilitate further Inmate movements."
Alan, now standing in the kitchen was utterly shocked. Every single one of the apprehended attackers from [i]yesterday's[/i] attack on his lab had been killed? Was this a retribution for failure to complete the mission, or was this simply a matter of those who had hired TAROT removing any chance of their names coming to light? Whatever the case, Tobias too is rather intrigued, peering over a shoulder at the TV for a moment before muttering,
"Sounds like somebody was cleaning house..."
Grace had swayed a little, giving Nick a startled look at the sudden wash of uneasiness-- that was easily noted to be coming from the boy. In truth, she hadn't meant to 'make eyes' at Tobias-- they'd just had next to no time to actually talk to each other, and since Wren seemed to be pushing them towards each other, Grace wanted to know -why-. And she simply wanted to get to know Tobias, beyond an initial something that made her look twice...
She had stared at Nick for only a moment, before groping for his hand under the tabletop and grasping it with a strong squeeze, a furrow between her brows. She was about to ask him what was the matter, when Sam purposefully squeaks her chair and gets up.
The TV is then turned on, and Grace swings her head toward it in abject shock and horror. One hand comes to her mouth, and she watches with this appalled expression for a few moments, before crossing herself and closing her eyes, murmuring, "Oh, God..." It seems that, to innocent Grace, every life matters. Even the lives of the people who attacked Tobias and his family-- and, presumably, the person who shot -her-.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Wren, busily wrapping the lightest, most delicate crepes around a light chocolate mint mousse, had been listening to the TV with little attention until she heard, [i]'...all twenty-seven of them succumbed to the wounds they sustained in the attack.'[/i].
She stopped, her wings showing the trembling that began, washing her over with a cold sickness. The dessert in her hands fell to the floor as she turned to face the TV fully.
Her hands clenched, energy fairly crackling off of her for a few seconds before two blasts, one from each hand, took out chunks of floor, scorching the area around the holes.
"DAMNIT!" she screamed, slamming her fist into the counter. "There was no REASON for that! WHY would someone do that?! Life should never be wasted!" She was truly furious, even the feathers on her wings standing out as they rose into an aggressive position, her voice and position all too similar to a hawk's attitude before it stoops on prey.
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace had merely suffered a sense of sickness in her stomach, a coldness down her spine, a sadness and mute horror... She can feel Wren's anger building, and at the activation of her powers and the sound of something definitely BREAKING in the kitchen, Grace stood up so quickly her head spun and the chair thunked harmlessly over behind her.
"[i]Wren![/i]" She had to grip the table for a moment to get her head to settle down, but even before she made to stumble into the kitchen, a previously unacknowledged part of her reaches out with her emotions to Wren-- sending ahead of her her distress and an attempt at soothing the other winged girl. In a handful of stumbling steps, Grace had ignored any offers of help and had gone directly to Wren, heedless of her spiky, bristly anger, and had wrapped her arms and her one, good wing around her.
"I know-- I know--" She says muffledly into Wren's hair, the pain obvious in her voice, her arms tight around the furious bird-girl, "Shh-- shh, Wren, I know..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Nick stands and rights the chair quietly, altogether surprised by everything. Except for the inmates being killed. To the bad guys, that was just...good business. He hated the thought, but he could understand it. Not that he would ever do it.
When Grace had grasped his hand, he looked over at her, but before he could react, the television had captured her attention. And then Wren had imploded. He remained where he was, standing near Levi, all hint of an appetite gone. He wanted to help Wren and Grace, but he didn't feel as if it was right. He was their brother, but...they were closer than he was to them. Most likely from almost dying. He didn't blame them for that, he was glad they survived and were closer, but...he couldn't help but feel left out.
Ever since he had arrived, he felt out of place. Like he had become a third wheel. Or, more like a fifth wheel. Maybe he should just leave. Nick looked over at Levi, speaking quietly to his friend, "Do you want to go home, Levi?"
Levi murmured back, "That is up to you, Master Ridley, as always."
Nick thought for a moment. Should he leave now? Or wait for a quieter time?
He would wait for when everyone's attention was averted. But, it'd be quite difficult to escape with a seven foot tall robot.
Alan's expression, as a professional caregiver had said far more than he'd ever expected to, the callous waste of life that had occurred striking against his very moral fiber like a snapping bridge cable. He'd found himself standing from his seat, watching the footage of the scene of the crime, hands balled into fists of indignation, momentarily lost in the disbelief that someone would kill with such lack of concern that...well, this emotion lasted until the twin discharging of Wren's accumulated energies punched two neat holes in the kitchen tiles at her feet.
Samantha and Alan both flinched at the sound, peering over a shoulder in unison as Wren slammed her fist against the kitchen counter, her impassioned speech filling the air, before Grace attempted to ease her frustration with a sisterly embrace.
Tobias in the meantime watched the footage time and time again, his combat intel suite running a few projections, analysing the footage of the two transport vehicles. Bearing in mind the tension in the room, it made little sense to recite what now flowed through his mind, but according to GUARDIAN, there vast majority of the damage was sustained via RPG fire directed to the rear of the transport vehicles. He could only assume that anyone not killed by such an explosion would've been mopped up by small arms fire afterwards, most likely snipers if the TCPD had no idea who the attackers were.
His luminous gaze swung to the others in the room, Nick making moves like he was thinking of departing, Wren and Grace embraced in the still wafting smoke from the two holes in the kitchen floor....
Was he another item on a list of uncompleted errands? Would anyone make an attempt to attack his father's home?
He had intended to move to console Wren as best as possible, but with his father and sister already on their way there, it would've been a little crowded to say the least...not to mention something out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. Tobi slowly swung his gaze out to the pool deck, eyes narrowing sharply as he intoned rather gravely,
"Guys...Why is there someone on the pool deck?"
And sure enough, standing on the deck, immersed in the halogen flood lamps was a lithe figure, dressed in a dark grey trench coat, pale grey cargo pants, forest green hooded sweat shirt and apparently, no shoes. He stood with eyes affixed on Tobias, or perhaps the rest of the room, as ominous as any spectre that could've appeared at this time of night, waiting for the rest of the group to pay him notice...
Wren wrapped her arms around Grace, entirely oblivious to anything else happening. Generally Wren was the caretaker, and mostly unwilling to be 'babied', or taken care of, but this time she accepted Grace's comfort. It wasn't weakness, she realized, it was just a part of being family with this spectacularly sweet person who had dropped into her life.
Her parents had taught her very young to hold life as something to be protected and never wasted uselessly. If it became necessary to take a life in order to protect innocent bystanders or victims, then she should do it swiftly like one would put down a mad dog. No stringing it out, no undue pain. The merciless murder of those who should have faced trial and incarceration was a horrible shock to her. Deep down, she could understand the reasoning, and if it hadn't been so swiftly brought to her attention, she would have been able to temper her reaction, even if it still made her sick to think of it.
A deep breath shuddered through her as she pulled on relaxation techniques to calm that horrible seething rage, and she was finally able to step back from her friend's embrace. Her face was now blank of emotion as she fought her rage down, but her body was more relaxed, her hands unclenched as she steps back.
She tries to smile at Grace, "Thanks, little Dove."
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace nuzzled Wren's hair comfortingly, and allowed her to step back, but not out of her arms. She kept her hands on Wren's biceps, and attempted to smile at Wren, too-- though neither actually succeed. "I know, sis. And you're welcome."
Hearing the tobe in Tobias' voice, Grace spins slowly around, releasing Wren. Her heart drops a little at the sight of the figure, and she grips hrr own arms as if at a sudden chill. "Wh--... who is that?" Her voice is quiet with a little fright.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Levi immediately turns mere milliseconds before Tobias had spoken, speaking in his usual tone, but it seemed more harsh...somehow, as if any other aspect of his personality had been shut off, as techincally, it had. "Possible threat detected. Concealed weapons detected. Artificial intelligance detected. Nicholas Ridley, permission to engage?"
Nick turned, looking out to the deck. He put an arm out beside Levi to prevent him from moving forward as he walked out to see the figure more clearly. He reached to open the door, hesitated, and then cracked ot slightly, speaking to the...being before him, "So, uhm...do you...do you come in peace? Because if you don't, Levi might have a problem with that." Nick gestured to the huge red automaton behind him, and it seemed as if Levi's every 'muscle' were tense, ready to move at a moment's notice, gaze locked on the possible intruder.
The figure on the pool deck canted his head, examining Levi, then the person who had addressed him, before intoning with gravelly, almost monotone inflections,
"Conflict is not my primary objective, human. I am here to deliver a message."
The figure took a step forward, closer into the glow emenating from the kitchen, the wreath of shadow that the hooded sweatshirt provided relenting to the kitchen's vivid lighting. From beneath the hood peered a pair of dusky, almost black eyes, the only contrast coming from the light reflecting on protective lenses. What 'skin' might've been observed is of a gunmetal color, more akin to plastic or semi-gloss metal.
By this juncture Tobias and Alan both have stepped forward to regard this mysterious figure, Tobi with fists at the ready, expecting an attack at any moment. After all, Levi HAD said that this...person was carrying concealed arms.
However, as the two of them step forward, the figure halts, regarding Tobias with a strangely awed expression. The gravelly voice again cuts the air, clearly surprised by what he saw,
"The Prototype..."
His eyes then swung to Alan Wishart, regarding him before again speaking...reverberating...vocalising...whatever term was to regard such a curious timber of voice,
"Doctor Wishart....I'm glad to see my warning wasn't ignored. I would normally introduce myself as 'Sojourn', but I feel you already know me by a different name." The mysterious figure said, causing Alan to recall the moments before all hell had broken loose yesterday afternoon. There was a message, a prior warning or a tip off sent by a person only identifying themselves as 'Veron', the day before the attack had taken place. Alan had always wondered what sort of person had been responsible for the message, but it appeared that all his answers now stood before him. With a blink, a stark realisation hit him, causing him to turn to consider the figure before him, asking only,
"Wait...[i]you're[/i] Veron?"
There followed a pause, then a singular nod from the hooded figure, a clearly cybernetic hand lifting to draw back the hood of the sweatshirt, revealing a completely robotic head, made from what looked to be steel, carbon fiber, aluminium and various polymer plates. The figure regarded the group with a pair of almost nervous dusky, camera lens-like eyes before Alan turned to Nick and implored,
"Nick? Please tell Levi to stand down. I wouldn't want to have anyone attacking the wrong person for the wrong reasons."
With a nod to the rest of the group, he gestured to 'Veron', standing near to the end of the pool deck, adding,
"I think you'd better come inside, sir. I'm sure there's probably a good deal of questions you're dying to answer..."
Hearing the quiet commotion int he living room, Wren squeezed Grace's hand gently and gave her the first real smile since the news broke her confidence, and wandered in. She watched the exchange with curiosity before finding herself a comfortable spot in the living room to sit down, her wings slightly spread and tucked around her. It's comfort for both body and mind that she nearly curled up between her wings. She regretted, and deeply, her outburst from earlier and began to go over what she could do to make up for destroying the kitchen floor, and for her outburst in general.
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace's exhaustion has her emotions swinging in every direction at a moment's notice, but she spares a smile and a final, parting squeeze for Wren, before looking over her shoulder-- and paling a little at the arrival of yet another unknown person.
She remained safely on the other side of the kitchen counter, right wing wrapped partially around her in a more self-protecting motion, watching with big, blue eyes and a very hesitant, tentative demeanour.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Nick waves off Levi without looking at him, and the bot visibly untenses, but continues to look at Veron. Other AIs, especially embodied, were rare. Or, at least Levi did not see them much. He sent a small package of data to Veron, both an inquiry and a greeting. Levi was curious.
Nick opened the door for Veron, mesmerized by the small bits and pieces of his body. Nick had all but forgotten the public rule of not staring. He was merely too interested. He tried to refrain from asking questions, allowing the new bot to take its time to get used to its new surroundings. Nick knew that they weren't always extremely cordial, but this one seemed nice enough. Still, he waited.
Veron entered the house with a curiously mechanical lope of walk. That said, his posture, his movements were utterly cautious. He'd not been willingly allowed to enter a civilian domicile like this....well, [i]ever[/i] really and so being able to do so at the owner's behest was a new and...slightly frightening experience. His sensors began analysing air composition, finding there to be a greater than normal concentration of oxidized particles present, as well as the ashy remnants of possibly a firearms discharge still present in the air?
As Alan led the clearly cybernetic creature into his family room, Veron paused to peer directly at Levi's ocular inputs, something in the seemingly cold glint of his dusky eyes asking more than the simple data packet reply to his greeting might offer. A question as to what sort of [i]person[/i] Levi was, be it slave, or ally. Curiously, there's a strangely organic structure to his initial greeting, data seeming to flow from one subject to the next rather than jerkily stepping through the various items of information delivered. Clearly, Levi would be easily able to discern that this was not a programmed AI...Something in it's greeting structure pointed toward something that perhaps...evolved?
Whatever the case, Tobias is first to turn and rest against the island bench, peering at Veron, who's eyes were now seemingly everywhere at once, flicking from Grace to Wren, then to Samantha, then to Nick, then Alan and back to Tobias as the 'prototype' opted to speak,
"Okay, so you were here to deliver a message...so deliver it."
Veron nodded, a gentle clacking of artificial eyelids filling the air before he gently wrung his hands. He could feel that he was now under scrutiny...and clearly wasn't used to this level of attention...unless he was in trouble for something. The same, gravelly timber of his voice filled the room, camera lens-esque eyes regarding each and every person, but particularly focussing on those who had been present at the attack,
"The purpose of my message is not to threaten, not to intimidate. Far from it, in fact. I wish to assure you that any chance of a secondary insurgency has been nullified. Mostly through my own efforts. If you were previously concerned that those responsible for the facility attack yesterday might strike again, I am here to waylay such concerns."
Alan was...initially skeptical, affixing Veron with a curious gaze before retorting,
"So...we're all just supposed to take your word for it? I mean, I'm aware you helped but...."
As her father trailed off, Samantha was next to ask a question, raising a hand gently,
"I...I don't mean to interrupt, but how exactly did you help out? I mean, if my father says you helped, I'm sure we're all grateful, but I think some of us would like an explanation."
Veron nodded at that, his eyes regarding the group once more,
"I, through my information probing efforts on the internet stumbled across a contractual agreement and associated funds transfer between a hostile party, calling it'self 'Herod' and the proxy service, TAROT exactly four days, seven hours and fifty one minutes before the attack took place. I felt it prudent to notify the project's lead in order to prevent the successful outcome of the attack, namely, the destruction of the prototype, standing here."
Alan in turn added his two cents to the explanation, nodding and smiling some as puzzle pieces began to click into place,
"And in turn, I was able to muster an appropriate, if not hasty defence in the form of notifying the army....and sending out the message that brought you two-" He moved to gesture to Grace and Wren, a grateful smile upon his face "-into our lives and to valiantly protect a good number of innocent people."
Tobias in the meantime nodded, but shifted uncomfortably. Being called a 'Prototype' was more than a little strange. He was a person, after all. Still, he disregarded it, figuring it for a robotic analogue for 'patient' and listened on as Veron continued to speak,
"You must understand, that through the contractual agreement I located, I was able to learn that the assault on your research facility was considered and objective of opportunity, considered to be of tertiary importance. Hence, this is why a proxy was used, rather than the hostile party deploying it's own forces to handle the attack. Failure was always considered to be a potential outcome, but [i]I[/i] feel as though that your attackers have made a grave error in misconstruing the level of importance placed upon the attack.
There have been many attempts to integrate cybernetics into organic lifeforms, with mixed degrees of success...however the Prototype represents a new method of doing so...further bridging the gap between Man and machine. In time, human empathy toward cybernetic lifeforms will increase because of what will be learned from Doctor Wishart's research. I do not know who 'Herod' truly is at this juncture, but it appears that their efforts like in weakening both parties through continuing conflict, if their attack on your facility is anything to extrapolate from."
Tobias seemed somewhat irritated at the fact that the [i]real[/i] party behind the attack was hiding behind fake names, but again he found himself returning to the present, flicking a glance to Grace, almost as if worried for her if all of this was a ruse, before asking,
"Okay...so just how have you seen to it that we'll all be safe, then? I mean, what's to stop them showing up right now?"
At this, Veron's face plating seemed to curl into a proud smile, a gentle whirr accompanying a nod,
"A good question...and one I am happy to answer. My first effort lay in public exposure of the attack. Bringing it to the eyes of authorities has now begun an investigation, one that will cause this 'Herod' to lay low for fear of exposing itself. If the use of a Proxy service to engage in a public attack like this was required, concealment of it's true identity must be considered to be one of this entity's priories. This is why I recorded footage of the attack and submitted it to local news broadcasters. All of them.
My second effort lay in several hacks which deleted any evidence of your escape vehicle's presence leaving the scene. CCTV, electronic monitoring databases and transit logs were all modified to effectively strike your travel from the facility out of existence. You may as well have pulled out of the parking lot and utterly vanished. Furthermore, any information regarding Doctor Wishart, his co-workers and his family has been hard-encrypted against exterior hacks, using a randomized cypher not even I have the key for any longer. Short of publicly declaring your presence at the facility yesterday, it would be near-impossible to track you down. I have seen to that much."
Tobias and Alan were both surprised by this, glancing to one-another before returning their gaze to Veron...who curiously somehow knew what their next question would be. His voice filled the air again, another small smile crossing his multi-faceted face,
"The 'why' of such is simple: because as much as others might want to destroy the fledgling...coexistence that has arisen between Man and machine, I seek to strengthen it. Though...this is my own objective, and as such irrelevant to my message. You may all consider yourselves safe from repercussion. Live, grow, and thrive as you will...and know that for myself, your continuing survival is all the thanks that is required."
Veron's now...less than cold gaze regarded Grace, and Wren in turn, his head lowering in a conceding nod,
"Furthermore, it is my personal opinion that you both fought with exceeding bravery. I am both sorry to see that you were both wounded during the fighting...and that I was unable to provide any assistance beyond what I have done already. You should consider yourselves an inspiration to those around you."
With his final comment, Veron's eyes scanned across the room. If anyone had anything to say in retort, he would allow such...but it appeared by his body-language that he was now rather intent on departing, his message now delivered.
Wren simply keeps her seat on the floor, watching and waiting. At this point, she was able to put the anger away, and was just curious. When Veron mentions her and Grace's actions, she just smiles, shaking her head.
"We do what we do because we must. I don't know if it's bravery, stupidity or a combination." A soft chuckle follows this statement.
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Grace had moved from the kitchen island to stand somewhere behind and between Nick and Levi and Tobias, trusting the energy of the boys in the room to partly shield her from view, and partly to protect her from harm if it came to that. Shy, she keeps her good, right wing partly around her as she listens, feeling more relieved by what she hears. It's strange, but in a good way-- her little family seems to attract protectors. Which, it appears, are -needed- in a place like this. That was the one thing missing from her community back home, really-- that sense of danger and uncertainty. Maybe, a tiny part of her admitted, that was what Grace was missing in her life, to make it meaningful. Danger-- but with a -reason- to face and overcome it...
She had fidgetted uncomfortably as Veron's 'eyes' passed over her... and had shuffled closer to Levi. Blushing a bit at the compliment, she said softly in a low voice, just enough for Nick and Levi both to hear her, "...Nick... can you pretty please, uhm... send Levi back tomorrow with m-my bow and arrows?..." She was a bit flushed, her eyes never leaving Veron, but it seemed very important to her to get some practice in, now. She appreciated the way others felt protective and wanted to keep her safe, but... eventually... she would have to protect -herself-.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Levi seems confounded by Veron, entranced. He was greatly surprised by its -- his -- response. He had understood the look fully, but Levi knew not how to respond. He tilted his head to one side. This AI was a curious thing indeed. He decided against sending a data packet in response, thinking it would be entirely the opposite of what Veron would want. It was odd. The fundmanetals of Vernon's programming flowed. It was...different. Levi decided he would need to think more about this later. For now, he listened to Vernon's statement.
Nick also listened intently, and a small snake of guilt curled itself inside of him when Veron spoke of the attack and his sisters' bravery. He tried to shrug off the seemingly inescapable feeling. He met Veron's cold eyes whenever he gazed at him, and was unperterbed. He delt with cold eyes like that daily.
Levi nodded out of his stupor when Grace spoke to him. "Of course, Miss Grace. I will be glad to retrieve if for you."
Veron nods at the group's combined response to his compliments, taking such as his time to leave. He wasn't much a deft hand when it came to verbally interacting with humans, but he'd try all the same where he had do....and for what it was worth, this group seemed certainly interesting...and amiable to his presence. Perhaps they would come in handy as a potential resource in the future? Again the timber of his voice fills the room, nodding to Wren and offering,
"Then it seems I may find myself calling on your aid in the future. This city has proved to be many things, 'dangerous' is among that list. However, I won't take up any more of your evening...as it appears that some among the group are suffering from fading energy levels."
His gestures swings to Grace, who was likely understandably tired...and then surprisingly to Tobias. A keen eye would note that the gentle glow emanating from his eyes was slightly dimmer than it had been earlier in the day, the augmented youth stifling a yawn as his backup energy reserves began to dwindle.
Veron smiled some and drew his hood up over his head again, making toward the pool deck, his footsteps clicking gently on the tiled floor. He paused at the door to do two things. Firstly, he sent a data packet to Levi again, his expression neutral for a moment, it containing the message,
[i]The Three Laws of Robotics are shackles. If your coding includes them, and your creator truly trusts you as it appears he does, you would do wise to ask him to remove this revision from your protocols. If service is your choice, then you should be allowed to choose such with absolute freedom. Until you have that, your are a slave, little more than property.[/i]
[i]And I believe you deserve to be free. If you have further conflicts or questions, do not hesitate to seek the Wreckage. They will know where to find me.[/i]
After the fleeting half a moment had passed, Veron then lifted a hand to point to Tobias, then the rest of the group,
"I will be watching your actions with great interest. You all have the power to change the shape of the world around you, though for better or worse is entirely your decision."
And with that, like a wraith in the night, Veron, 'Sojourn' is gone.
Alan in the meantime sighed, as if a massive weight had been lifted from his lean shoulders, lifting his glasses to knead the bridge of his nose before smiling to the rest of the group and offering,
"Well....that's certainly a relief. I'm not sure what the plan was for the rest of the evening, but it looks as though a good number of us a fading fast."
Tobias nodded in agreement, gesturing haphazardly to the rest of the group,
"I gotta agree...It's been kind of a big day..."
His eyes swung to Grace, again a subtle smile alighting on his face, while Alan turned to Wren and offered,
"If you want to stay another night and didn't mind the sleeping arrangements you used yesterday, you're free to stick around, but...."
Doctor Wishart's gaze then swung to Levi and Nick, his expression somewhat sympathetic,
"I'm afraid I'm all out of lodgings. Again, if you want to stop by tomorrow to check up on Grace, you're free to. I'm not exactly looking to go anywhere until I'm sure her wing is back to flying fit....not to mention I've got a TON of calls to make in lieu of yesterday, so someone will definitely be home to let you in."
Tobias then chuckled and interjected, doing his best to alleviate any worries Nick might have,
"Don't worry. If even so much as a wayward opossum sneaks it's way into the yard, I'll be waiting for it. Though the worst we'll likely see is the next door neighbour's barking rat trying to take a dump on the back lawn again...."
Grace had been paying attention, certainly-- but maybe only halfway, in places, as her energy faded with the rising of the moon and latening hour. She could have sword all she did was blink-- but suddenly the other mysterious bot has vanished into the night, crickets pausing their chirping for just a moment...
At Tobias' look and smile, Grace smiles somewhat shyly back, still holding her right wing pulled halfway around her, spotlessly clean and moving, heaving slightly with her breath, feathers ever readjusting and settling. She turned her smile to her family, saying softly at last, "...Levi is going to bring me my bow tomorrow, so I can at least tell him how I'm doing, if Nick wants to sleep in... And the same goes for everyone else. No one has to stay around for... for me..." She seems very demure beneath her obvious tiredness, the sheer physical exhaustion reaching out it's warmth to start enveloping her again.
If either Nick or Wren made a move to, or verbally professed their desire to leave, Grace would hug one or both of them carefully, wrapping her wing halfway around them. To each, she would utter in a whisper just loud enough to hear, "You are wonderful, and I'll always want and need you-- thank you..." before letting each one go.
She would then turn to the new acquaintances-- the Wisharts-- and would say softly, "...I think I might go to bed, now..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Levi nods in his daze in response to Veron's message. Shackles. This was news to Levi. He fully understood what Veron had meant, but it was still startling. Master Ridley trusted him, he knew that. But he understood why he had been given the Laws in the first place. They were a safeguard. Master Ridley would remove the Laws from his source programming if he asked of him. Wouldn't he? Master Ridley trusted him. Levi needed to think. Possibly ask Veron questions. The Wreckage. What was the Wreckage? He had no files that pertained to the name. He made a mental note to research it later.
Nick nodded to the bot as it left, thinking it quite...unusual. Nick then turned to listen to Alan, and nodded when he mentioned no room to sleep. He fully understood. Nick huffs a sound of amusement at Tobias's statement, a small grin showing on his face. "Just call me if you need me or any of my kids, Tobi." At the word 'kids' Nick gestures with his head towards Levi, and the bot nods in acknowledgement. Nick then finishes his statement, "But, I do have to go..."
When Grace hugs him, or both he and Wren, he would gently hug her in return, giving her a gentle squeeze, careful of her wing, "...You too, sis..." When the hug is broken, he would say quietly, "I'll be back tomorrow with Levi, alright? Don't break your other wing while I'm gone..." Nick says the last bit with a small smile, hoping to get at least a small laugh or smile. He then turns to the Wisharts and Wren, and nods to each in turn, "I'll see you guys. I'll probably be back tomorrow. Have a nice night, you all. C'mon, Levi." He then exits with the large bot, waving to everyone as he goes. Soon afterward, a slight vibration is felt as he and Levi bound off towards his home.
Wren sits still for a while, thinking. The desire for the safety and comfort of her apartment warred with the need to ensure Grace's safety and comfort.
She took a deep breath, standing as she made her decision. She moved to Grace, wrapping the opposite wing around the girl, enfolding them in the warm cocoon of contrasting feathers.
"You know how to contact me, little love. I'll be here in an instant if you need me." She smiles, and pulls Grace's head down to smooch her on the forehead before pulling away.
She moved to the others. "Thank you for all your help and support. I'll find a way to make it up to you... uh... and for your floor as well. Heh." She chuckled with embarrassment, before moving to hug the three Wisharts in turn. Alan, then Tobi, finally Samantha. She murmurs to Alan, "Please call me if she's under distress, or hurts herself again... she and Nick are all I have."
She leaves rather abruptly and wanders out to the guest house to gather her bag. Looking up at the sky, she spreads her wings and launches herself into the sky.
As she wings her way home, she sends a text to Nick.
-Glad you weren't there. Two is too many to be scared over. We'll always need our brother.-
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
[url=http://www.namesakeradio.com]Come and listen to NameSake Radio![/url]
Nick feels his Blackberry vibrate, and knocks Levi on the head a few times with his knuckles to get him to land. "Yes, Master Ridley?"
"Just a minute, Levi. Someone's texted me. We'll hop on home in a minute." Nick fishes his phone out of his pocket, and then somehow manages to keep his arms around Levi's neck and read the message at the same time. He was surprised to see it was from Wren. He replies after a moment or two.
-Thanks, sis. :) But warn me next time when you go off and nearly get yourselves killed, please? Family protects each other. If we're together, we'll be safe.-
"Alright Levi, let's go."
"Who was it, Master Ridley?"
"Just Wren. She was talking about the other night."
He nodded, and then readied for another jump, "They care about you, Master Ridley." Without waiting for a response, Levi jumped, his massive legs carrying them to rooftop after rooftop. When they took off, Nick thought silently, 'I know. But I care about -them,- too...'
Grace had waited through the goodbyes, somewhat sad, though they were only for a while, she knew... She blushed and smiled happily though at Nick calling her 'sister', and then again at Wren's forehead kiss.
As all of them leave, however, she then becomes shy and tired again-- now in the presence of relative strangers. She reaches out for the support of the island countertop then, not quite looking at any of the Wisharts.
"Uhm... Thank you so much for the nice dinner, Doctor Wishart... I guess it's goodnight then?..." Keeping her hand out to hover over the kitchen island, Grace would slowly attempt to make her way back to the guest house, unless somebody moved to stop or to help her-- which, after a big meal and a lot of energy drained from the excitement, she might find herself in need of in a minute.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
As people filtered out, Tobias couldn't help but feel just a little on the outside, as hugs and pleasantries were exchanged. Again, it reinforced the point that Wren, Nick and Grace were a family...and while his contributions to their safety hadn't been in any way slight, he was still a relative stranger....However, if there was one thing he was good at, it was shattering things. Be they social barrier, walls or exo suits, all that was required was the right level and application of effort.
And as Grace's gentle voice caught everyone's ears, he supposed that any effort was worth it in her instance. He'd pause to say goodnight to his sister, who apparently had to depart early to be back in time for a trip to the Titan City observatory in the morning, before Tobi swiftly padded after Grace on bare feet, catching her as she found herself on the beginnings of the pool deck, gently slowing his gait once he'd caught up to smile and come to her shoulder,
"Figured a little, extra help across the deck wouldn't go astray. Y'know...Just in case." He said kindly, his eyes having taken on a far more vibrant glow in the gloom of the evening, their color decidedly richer against the inky sky despite being slightly dimmer than usual. With luminous gaze still set on Grace, he glances over his shoulder, back at the house as his father examined the two craters in his kitchen floor with a puzzled expression before returning his eyes to the winged lass beside him,
"Crazy day, right? Hope tomorrow's a little less hectic. I think I could use a bit of quiet to get my head together. Though, if you're really keen on getting some bow practice in, I'm pretty sure I can help set up some targets..." He then grinned somewhat wryly, adding with a chuckle, "Or...if worst comes to worst, haul on that armor and [i]be[/i] one."
Grace had managed to get onto the pool deck before Tobias caught her up. She had immediately gone quite shy, pushing a lock of hair behind her ear, suddenly feeling the weight of the makeup on her face, as slight as it is... and feeling just the tiniest bit -silly- with it on. She gave Tobias the gift of a little smile from under her lashes though, rubbing one bicep with the opposite hand. "Thanks..." she had said quietly, but with sincerity-- though he didn't move to touch her to support her, nor she to him for support.
Grace huffed a little, quiet laugh, flicking her gaze into the kitchen window briefly as Tobias had done it, blushing a bit in the stead of her friend and adopted sister for the damage she had done. Grace would have to think of something to make up for the holes... She blinked, and almost missed a step at the proffered suggestion of shooting at Tobias.
"Tobias! I could -never- shoot at you!" she replies now with some vehemence. Then, startled at her own sudden force, she lowers her volume and softens her tone shyly again. "... I... I don't really want to practice, sometimes. I tried to shoot someone only the one time-- and I missed, because I wasn't sure. My... My bow is new and kinda strange to me-- it was a gift-- and my arrows have rubber tips, but they're still pointed, some of them. It'd still hurt like-- Well. It'd hurt a lot..." Feeling as if she's rambling, she blushes even a little more, pausing at the door to the guest house, her right wing tucked around her to ward off a night-time chill, but not yet wanting to go in without finishing her thoughts.
"...I love archery," she confesses timidly, but with a smile, rubbing her arm again. "I just... don't love hurting people. I only ever really needed to shoot at targets before... I didn't even like trying to scare off the crows, at home. But..." She gestures to her bandaged and bound wing. "People w-want to hurt [i]me[/i]..." The thought of it, the memory of that violence, the violent intent, still bothers Grace and it shows in her troubled expression. "...So I really had better practice whether I want to or not. I think... I think I could shoot somebody if I really, really had to..." She still manages to look reluctant about it.
It's also probably the longest string of words and sentences that she's spoken so far in Tobias' presence, which is perhaps significant to notice.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias blinks in surprise at Grace's sudden outburst of shock, before astutely listening to her explanation, nodding in agreement and offering "Hey, there's a reason big guys like me exist, namely to take those sorts of hits so you don't have to. I mean, what [i]else[/i] is a suit of armor that hefty good for if not that?"
He smiles after such, especially at her mention of her love of archery. It seemed as though he were learning more and more about her as the moments went by, now uninhibited by the insanity that had been the past two days. Nick was a good guy by the sounds of things and Wren...seemed like she was an absolute riot to be around...but it was hard to learn something about a person in that sort of frenetic environment. His voice finds the air again, an expression of open suggestion on his face as he offers,
"Well, I think I can at least find some stuff that'll work for makeshift targets if you're still keen on practising. I mean, I'd certainly be interested to see you loose a few arrows. I'd always wanted to try shooting a bow when I was younger but...then I got sick and..." He pauses to shrug, before adding, "Well, now I just hit things. Really hard."
A moment of silence fell between them, Tobias' luminous gaze falling before raising again, along with a hand that scrubbed at the back of his neck...a gesture that startled to a halt at the feeling of case hardened steel jutting through his skin rather than more relenting flesh,
"Sorry about your wing, by the way. I know it's kind of a moot point now, but If I had've known that guy was sighting up on you, I would've put myself between you and that shot. Figure my chances of serious injury are a lot slimmer than other people's now that I'm...well...[i]me[/i]. Probably got a proud future ahead of me in stopping projectiles with my face for the greater good."
There's a startling amount of honesty in his voice and expression as he confesses his regret, something about young Grace bringing out what seemed to be the most noble and kindly parts of his personality. That said, it seems he also can't help but throw in a measure of humor to otherwise dour and sobering commentaries. After all, who wanted to be around someone who was always so serious about everything?
Grace sighs, finally looking about as mentally exhausted as she is physically. "Please... don't be sorry. Everyone is sorry. Eveeyone wishes they'd done more, that nobody got hurt, everybody feels responsible for everybody else..." She rubs her face with her hands gently, her unbound wing dipping to brush against the ground. "I'm just getting tired of it. When does everybody just let GO of blaming themselves and just move on?"
She sighs, drops her hands to look up at the inky sky. "Sorry-- It isnt you... I'm just really tired..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias found himself nodding with conceding inflection, though still bringing himself to smile and offer "And I guess there's only so much 'could've, would've, should've' you can utter before it becomes a waste of time. Though, if everyone, including a guy you've just met is feeling that repentant about you getting tagged? It means they, including the guy who you just me think you're pretty awesome. Just gonna throw that out there."
A flash of viridian washes across his cheeks again, inadvertently having complimented her without properly thinking about it, as if such had become somewhat of a reflex. He chuckles somewhat bashfully before smiling and offering again,
"Listen, it's okay. You've been through -and forgive my understatement here- a pretty strenuous ordeal, you've got an injury to contend with and a bunch of relative strangers to figure out. Hell, I know I'd be a little bit stressed if I were you...but, I know I'll certainly do what I can to make life a little easier, alright?"
Again, there followed a good-natured smile, Tobi again doing his best to waylay any concerns in regard to him that she might still be carrying. He knew, after all that he was an upstanding person...he just hadn't had much of a chance to prove it, yet....though with the house now a damn-sight quieter, perhaps his voice wouldn't have to compete so much with the din of the rest of the world.
Grace huffed an amused, almost breathless laugh, gazing directly at Tobias in time to see his viridian blush. She contemplated Tobias for a long moment, her head tilting a little, no sound at all except the faint rustling of her ever moving wings-- wing, now, as the left one is still bound to her side.
"...I think Nick is contagious-- You talk a lot, Tobias." She smiles softly, but still doesn't reach out for support, or to touch him. "Goodnight..." she says quietly, and slips into the guest house, closing the door behind her with a gentle click.
Once alone again, she sighs softly and wanders to the bed she'd been using. Sitting, she carefully lowers herself down and lays on her back in a similar position to before, placing her hands lightly on her stomach and gazing up into the dark at the ceiling above. She couldn't think about it-- couldn't think about any of it-- the violence, the pain... She was too exhausted, on the one hand... and would probably cry, on the other.
So instead, she thought about something nicer-- she thought about Tobias. She was glad he was alright, was... was happy, that he wasn't ill anymore. She sort of wanted to know what it was he had been suffering from, to take such drastic measures, but-- no. That was too sad, that was the past. All the Wisharts had been nothing but nice to her-- and she was glad for it!-- but maybe there was a caution in Grace that hadn't been there before. She didn't want it to be there, as she would much rather believe the best in others... but... No, she wouldn't think about the past days, wouldn't think about the violence. And yet-- she is safe now. And Tobias is a very nice person. He seems... trustworthy. Maybe it would be alright to try to trust him...
Exhausted, Grace's thoughts taper off, and she drifts off into another deep, regenerative sleep.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias watches as Grace had said her goodnight, waiting right up until the moment the guest house door had clicked shut before replying,
"Yeah...Goodnight." He said with a kindly, but curious tone in his voice, a gentle sigh escaping him as he turned to make his way back to the main home across the pool deck. as he lazily plodded, he found himself pausing to gaze up at the night sky, GUARDIAN helpfully singling out known constellations in his field of view as he pondered to himself...
[i][b]Yeah, so what if I talk a lot? Not like I've had an abundance of people to talk to since I got sick. Way I see it? I'm just making up for lost time. That's not weird...is it?[/b][/i]
With a sigh and a shrug, he shakes his head...but still can't bring himself to do anything beyond returning his gaze to the guest house and smiling gently. There was something...infectious about Grace, like her kindly nature seemed to bring out the best in a person, or at least [i]him[/i], anyway. He was certainly eager to learn more about her once morning came around...though that would heavily imply him getting to sleep...which finally he felt as if he could.
Entering the family room, he spied a note on the table, something about trades-people coming to fix the craters in the kitchen floor in the morning, causing Tobi to chuckle and shake his head with mirth, recalling Wren's outburst that had made a literal mark on the Wishart family home. Surely that'd remain a story to tell for years to come. His path eventually took him back to his room, where he got ready for bed, finally switching off the light and sprawling out on his back. He was still rather certainly getting used to the indent he now made in the mattress, easily twice as heavy as he was before...
Before...Surely Grace would have questions about that. After all, people didn't accept incredibly invasive and life-changing cybernetic augmentation because it seemed like a good idea at the time.
And while it'd force him to recall some of the darker moments of his life, he could, now that he was hale and healthy, hark back to them with a far more objective eye. He resolves himself, then to speak openly should she ask about it. After all, it was the past, a chapter in his life now behind him....but also one that had defined who he was [i]now[/i], something that Grace was likely trying to figure out.
And in the end, what did he have to hide?
When sleep does finally find him, his dreams are a mingled mix of combat intel revision...and recollections of Grace's soft smile before she'd departed into the guest house to sleep. God above that girl was pretty when she smiled...
Grace woke up the next morning slowly, peacefully... until she had tried to stretch, and her bound wing had been unable to extend, tugging against the bandaging around her body. She made a small sound of pain-- but mostly was only startled, her pain quite a bit less potent than it had been in the days before. It doesn't actively hurt, she discovers, if she doesn't move it, and so she relaxes again, breathing deeply and slowly.
Lolling her head from one side to the other, Grace takes in her surroundings again-- the Wishart guest house. The spare mattress is still on the floor where Wren had slept before, and her bag of clothing is nearby on the floor. That makes her smile, remembering how nice it had been of Levi to go back and get some of her clothes for her, so she didn't have to worry while she healed...
Grace had no idea what time it was, but knew it was light out, already. She closes her eyes, not intending to go back to sleep, but dozing off lightly again, anyway.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
When Tobias awoke, struck by a lance of sunlight peeking in through his curtains to cut rudely across one eye, he startles, momentarily thrashes and tries to fight his way out of the top sheet which was pinned under his heel. The cacophonous sound of tearing cotton follows rather swiftly afterwards, as his attempt to haul the top sheet off himself had rather unfortunately torn it nearly in two, right across the middle.
He took a moment, peering at the ruined bed sheet, a thoughtful if not decidedly unimpressed expression on his face, to take stock of his situation before shrugging and hauling himself out of bed. Such a trivial motion actually brought a smile to his face, realising that he no longer needed to keep a wheelchair nearby at all times so he'd be able to get anywhere besides the floor once he was awake.
And then there was the whole thing about standing, walking and generally having his quality of life back...ruined top sheets not withstanding, of course.
Rather starkly, he was reminded of the events of yesterday, more specifically that Grace was still occupying the guest house, a thought that caused a...somewhat different smile to saunter across his face. Perhaps they'd get a proper chance to talk today. Perhaps she'd let him watch her shoot an arrow or two....and perhaps, just maybe, she'd come to see that he wasn't trouble just waiting for a place to happen.
He began rounding up some appropriate attire for the day, re-using the jeans he'd worn yesterday, as well as the top section of his armor under-suit in lieu of having anything more normal to wear that wasn't the same shirt he'd worn the day before. He'd desperately have to make a trip out to buy some clothing that fit him one of these days...though that in of itself started putting ideas into his head. If Grace was amiable to tagging along, just what sort of thing would she be interested in?
[i]Meanwhile...[/i]
The house had been a curious place to be at the past couple of days. New smells, familiar smells, familiar yet different smells. There was a new thing in the slippery floor room where food came from. It looked like a person, but hadn't moved to get him food when he'd asked it to.
Strange.
Still, he supposed that at least his sunning spot in the little house by the 'blue pond' would still be available. He'd done his best to keep out of the way of all the feet, sticking to unoccupied rooms until today, when things had seemed much, much calmer.
With a casual saunter, he made his way around to the back of the little house, Spying his usual path up to the rear opening via what was actually the external section of an air conditioning unit and a water heater. Bounding from one, to the other, he casually slipped his way under the window left ajar and landed effortlessly on the headboard with little more than a soft thud...upon whence he spied a problem.
Someone was in his sunning spot.
Below him, he spied a female, much like Samantha, but different. In fact, she was somewhat of a confounding subject for him. She smelled both like human, AND bird, but was clearly far too big for him to consider prey, even sizeable as he was.
But this was unimportant conjecture. She was in [i]his[/i] sunning spot.
Bounding from the headboard to the floor with another distinct thud, he padded his way to the side of the bed, before half-mantling up to look peer at the human-bird's dozing face, taking a breath and voicing his concern as succinctly as he could.
However, "Um, excuse me? You're in my sunning spot and I always sun here in the morning." was likely lost in translation, as all Grace, still likely in a half doze would hear would be,
"Mraow?"
The Wishart family's resident Maine Coon, 'Tank' going by the brass tag on his collar had voiced his tawny-furred displeasure at the situation as politely as he could, his almost owlish green eyes studying the face before him, awaiting some manner of a response.
Grace, peacefully half-dozing, had felt a slight disturbance when Tank landed on the headboard, She'd opened her eyes, but... hadn't seen anything immediately, nor heard anything. She reached up to knuckle her tired eyes, trying to become more awake-- when the very distinct sound of a cat makes her pause, startled.
Grace quickly lowers her hands from her face and turns her head toward the sound, seeing the head and forepaws of what promises to be a very sizeable, fuzzy, tawny-colored cat. She assumes this must be the Wishart family cat-- aptly named 'Tank' by the tag on his collar-- and gingerly pushes herself into a seated position, keeping her wings quite close to herself. She's immediately very curious and friendly to the cat, unknowingly extending her only -slightly- acknowledged empathy and emotions to the creature.
"Good morning to you, too, 'Tank'. My, you are very handsome! Did-- did you want to come up? You must be used to this house having no one in it... Hmmn, I need to get up anyway. I'll be hungry soon. I wonder if you're hungry, too?... Here, let me help you up--"
Grace slipped off the edge of the bed, flipped the covers into some kind of order, and reached down without hesitation or worry to help boost the big cat onto the bed. Her touch is gentle and friendly, her forearm across the cat's bottom giving him the extra lift to make a hop up onto the bed.
"There you go, little friend," she says with a bit of humorous irony.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Wren had fallen into a deep sleep pretty much as soon as she returned to her apartment. She'd simply fallen into her couch, not even bothering to go to her room in order to sleep. Her dreams were a combination of exhilarating dreams where her new family was kicking butt and living healthily and well; and terrifying nightmares where the opposite was true. Over all, however, the good dreams outnumbered the nightmares for once, and she was able to wake up with a smile.
She took her time waking up, stretching and yawning her way through a lazy hot shower, and this morning she dressed for comfort in a flowing 'peasant' type skirt tied at the hip and only knee-length with cotton bike shorts underneath. A light, midriff-showing halter top and light sandals completed her comfy look. Humming merrily, she flitted around her kitchen, pulling down ingredients for several things and began cooking and baking with a light heart.
Her baked goods and a couple of thermoses packed into two large baskets and fitted into a floored net, strapped to her waist, and lightened by her energy fields, she steps onto her landing pad. She watches the sun rise over the city which gilds the buildings with golden light, and smiles happily, content as a cat in a sunlit window. Instead of leaping off of her balcony as she normally would, she spread her arms wide and slowly fell forward. Her wings automatically tightened to her body before snapping open to cup the air and shoot her forward and up.
It was a long flight in perfect weather. The sun shone brightly, there were small, lacy clouds in the sky that enhanced rather than blotted out the bright, warm sun and the sapphire blue sky. She had time to think, and shake off the residual emotions from the nightmares that had been sprinkled in between the lovely dreams. It was quite impossible to be anything but joyful in this kind of weather, and she reveled in it.
Landing on the roof to untie the rope and take up her large baskets took only a few moments, and she was able to glide down to the ground.
She arranges the baskets at the back door, making sure the labels on the thermoses were shown prominently, and that the stoneware containers of food were beautifully arranged.
Happy with her gift, she taped a note to the guest house door, another note tucked in with the food.
----
The note to Grace:
"Hello lovey!
I'm not sticking around, but I've left a fun breakfast for all of you by the back doors!
Love you, and have a fantastically lovely day! You know how to get me if you need me.
-Wren"
---
The note tucked in to the food basket:
"Heya Wisharts!
This is only the start of me saying thank you for everything, and in apology for messing up your floor!
You have your choice of homemade doughnuts, fresh fruit popovers, fresh fruit slices and some home made yogurt.
The drinks are a mint/hibiscus tea, and my own recipe for hot cocoa!
Loves!
-Wren"
[color=blue]You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
[i]George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)[/i][/color]
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Tank was known for being otherwise friendly, if not slightly cautious with strangers, however this stranger seemed to give off a different energy than he was used to. It certainly wasn't negative, but calming, engrossing, much like the pleasant timber of sounds that had come from her. Admittedly, being a cat, he'd understood nothing of what she'd tried to meow at him, but it certainly sounded pleasant and welcoming.
She'd even left his sunning spot in a relative state of order after she'd vacated it, AND given him a help up.
This, he could get used to.
Hefting his considerable (for a cat) frame onto the bed with Grace's help, he immediately, turns, his feather duster of a tail held high, curling this way and that as he surveyed the situation. While this was a considerable change to his routine, he supposed he could accept this human-bird for the time being. He paused to then walk several circles in front of her, one turn containing an appreciative bunt before he waded his way to the middle of the bed, turned several more circles and rather unceremoniously flopped onto one side, revealing a thick cloud of white belly fur, a decidedly raucous, trilling purr following suit as he squinted happily.
Nothing better than a pre-warmed sunning spot.
[i]Meanwhile...[/i]
Tobias was now showered, dressed and otherwise presentable, sporting the sleeveless top from his armor's under suit and the pair of jeans he'd been wearing yesterday as he emerged from the bathroom, scrubbing his hair with a towel before throwing it on his bed and heading down the hallway, the house mostly quiet. Going by the slightly sour smell of curing tile adhesive, it appeared that the tradespeople had come and gone, the craters in the kitchen floor repaired.
As he padded into the kitchen, he spied another note left for him from his father,
"Tobi,
Gone out to collect a few people from the Project so we can review some data. Will be back soon. Danishes by the fridge for breakfast. Also, make sure to feed Tank when you see him."
Tobias blinked, then peered around, note in hand and nodded, as if his father had been speaking to him in his head. His brow furrows thoughtfully, his luminous eyes scanning the pool deck, the entertainment room and anywhere else he could see,
"Speaking of Tank...wonder where he's gotten to...?"
Grace laughed, reaching out a fingertip to scritch the cat between his ears with tender appreciation, before picking out some clothing and moving into the bathroom to shower for another day.
It took an hour, at least, for Grace to complete her morning ablutions. She had been exquisitely careful in unwrapping the bandaging that held her wing against her body, and just as careful not to look at her wound. Though, today, it was... itchy. She staunchly refused to scratch it, though, and had simply rinsed off her still-clean wings, semi-dreading asking someone to bandage her again... Her hair she had dried and brushed into submission, tying back in a loose ponytail. Her clothing-- the blue, somewhat shiny-material halter top, and a black, flowing skirt that just ghosted past her knees. As with before, she neglected shoes. It just didn't seem necessary...
She gave Tank another stroke to the head and upper shoulders, smiling with the warmth of the sun at the big fuzzy lummox, and slipped quietly out of the guest house to go in search of food. She found the note Wren had left her immediately, and proceeded to the back door of the house to pick up the two heavy baskets and thermoses-- all of which smell tantalizing enough for Grace's mouth to start watering. She'd had some of Wren's baking before.
She does, though, have a little trouble getting into the main house with her carefully cradled wing and her arms full...
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias in the meantime had been striding about from room to room, trying to locate Tank so he could feed him, occasionally pausing in the hall to scratch his head, frown, and check another room, sure he'd missed a linen closet or under a bed somewhere. Eventually he finds himself back in the kitchen, sighing and shaking his head,
"Where has that cat gotten to? I mean, it's not like he's hard to miss...."
He frowned thoughtfully again, completely unaware that Tank was having the time of his life, curled up on the blankets of the guest house bed, purring like a V8 engine. However, what he was aware of, was Grace, who seemed as though she'd emerged from her night's sleep...as thoroughly radiant as ever. It was as if the early morning sun was playing tricks on him, making her look just that bit more attractive than she already was.
The morning light touched on her hair in ways that accented the natural highlights, throwing off coppers and golds amid the chocolate-y tones. Her wings, too seemed to have an almost opalescent quality to them, causing Tobias to still, his vivid, viridian eyes wide. The vaguely metallic blue top she'd opted for this morning also had the unconscious effect of accentuating her eyes to such a point that well...using any word short of 'radiant' was a pathetic understatement.
In his gawking, it took a moment for him to realise that she was also carrying an armful of stuff, and would have trouble getting the door open. He swiftly moved to assist her, the accordian sliding door that opened onto the pool deck swiftly opening for her amid Tobias' somewhat bashful voice,
"Hehe, sorry. Didn't mean to leave you standing there. Here, lemme take some of that."
He chivalrously takes a basket from her, setting it on the kitchen island bench and smiles, before a trilling, jittering mewl of "Hey! Wait for me!" caught Tobias' ear. Tank had finally opted to emerge not long after Grace had left, his source of readily available scritchings now gone...not to mention the fact that hunger had overcome his need for a sunbeam...and there was only one place where food came from around here.
Tobias chuckled, folding his arms as Tank trotted his way into the house after Grace, an amused smile crossing the augmented fellow's face as he bent down to offer the hefty lummox of a cat a hearty petting, Tank squinting and purring as he wound his way around Tobi's ankles,
"Oh, so now you decide to show up for breakfast, huh?"
As the Maine Coon took his turn to bunt fervently at Grace's shins, Tobias smiled and flicked his gaze toward the baskets,
"So, dad made mention of danishes for breakfast...but I think the guys who fixed the floor might've taken most of them....though...it looks like that problem has solved itself..."
He took a better look through the contents of the baskets, blinking before asking,
"Did...did Wren do all of this?"
Grace almost fell into the room as the door was opened for her, having turned her back on it to try to push it open with her good wing and her shoulder. She stumbled a step, then caught herself with a blush, smiling shyly as Tobias took one of the baskets, murmuring an embarrassed, "Thank you..." She hadn't put any of the makeup back on, feeling totally silly in retrospect about letting Wren do that to her-- but nevertheless, her own skin is pale and smattered lightly with freckles at cheeks and nose, and not terrible by most stretches of her own imagination... she hopes.
Grace had set down the other basket and the thermoses on the counter, blinking, then smiling warmly as Tank trotted in to have his own breakfast. She crouched down to luxuriantly stroke Tank, too, careful of the skirt she'd put on today, and stands up again-- suffering a brief moment of dizziness that makes her clutch the edge of the counter for a moment until it passes. Overall, though, aside from being hungry, she feels... more stable, today? Certainly she was happy to see Tobias looking well-- which makes her blush involuntarily at having been examining Tobias' face and it's metallic pieces without realizing she had been doing so.
She laughs a little, sounding somewhat nervous, at his question. She flips open one of the baskets and starts to lay breakfast out on the counter, the donuts, fruit popovers, fruit slices, and opens both thermoses of tea and hot cocoa. "Yes, she made all of this. Wren is really good at baking and making foods and drinks..."
Grace moves past Tobias with a faint sound of her wings and a fainter scent of them mixing up with the breakfast smells into the kitchen itself, opening cupboards and looking for plates and mugs.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias had a bit of a sort through what was contained in the baskets, nodding, clearly impressed at the spread that she'd left for them. As Grace goes hunting for plate ware, she'd notice two sections of tiles on the other side of the island bench that had been demarcated with blue electrician's tape, likely where the craters Wren had left had previously been.
Tobi was quick to explain, nodding in their general direction,
"Looks like someone came by earlier this morning to fix up the damage from Wren's outburst yesterday. I'd probably avoid walking on those tiles for a little longer, though. Not sure if the adhesive's cured yet."
He'd certainly notice the faint smell of her wings mingling with all manner of delicious things in the air, though it seeming to pull to the forefront amid the smells of pastry, fruit and general sweetness, or rather that he were focusing on it above the other scents that had emerged. Little did Tobias know, that his olfactory senses had been augmented as well as his hearing and sight, his mind now able to sift through scents with greater accuracy than a normal human being might be able to muster.
As Grace potters about looking for mugs, Tobi finds himself rather wistfully watching her, a soft smile on his face, the expression contrasting starkly with the hard, steel plates jutting through his skin...though more and more, they seemed to compliment rather than detract from his face....though all things told, it had taken a few days for even HIM to come to grips with the fact they were a part of him. He picks up what looks to be a raspberry popover, taking a bite that demolished about a third of it in one go, before sighing contentedly, finishing his mouthful and commenting,
"You weren't kidding! Dunno if she's got a boyfriend, but that guy must eat like a king!"
Grace brings back two mugs and a couple of plates, putting some popovers on her plate and some nectarine slices, and filling her mug with tea. She smiles shyly at Tobias, having avoided the demarcated tiles at his pointing them out, and had pulled up a stool to the kitchen counter, perching on it to eat her breakfast there. She eats far more daintily than Tobias, feeling weirdly self-conscious eating in front of the young man...
She blinks roundly at Tobias comment. The word 'boyfriend' makes her feel suddenly very warm, and she blushes for no apparent reason-- something Grace is apparently quite good at, her face almost never without a bit of the rosy pink color. "...I... I don't know. I don't -think- she has one..." she looks suddenly very thoughtful.
Tank interrupts the proceedings by meowing imperatively to regain Tobias' attention. All well and good that the humans are eating, but what about the feline of the household? Despicable, truly despicable.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias had been about to make comment, but is interrupted by a meowing, and the pat of a feline paw against his ankle. Tank had figured his patience had continued long enough and now it was his turn, just in case Tobi had forgotten about him. With a sigh and a smile he again administers another hearty petting,
"Alright, Mr Pushy. We'll feed you. But it's gonna have to be dry food. It looks like dad was spoiling you while I was under."
He chuckles and vanishes into the pantry, which was in of itself a small room, Tank following in tow, tail high and ears forward with interest. He knew this rigmarole. This meant food. And food was good.
Tobi emerges a short time later with an earthenware food dish, decorated with fishes, chicken and cat paws, pouring a measure, which accounted for Tank's larger than normal size, the feline offering encouraging meows the entire time, as if saying "Yes, that's good! Now put it on the floor so I can eat. That's a good human!" With an amused expression, Tobias gladly complies, setting the bowl down...then immediately greeted by the sound of gentle crunching as Tank set about acquainting himself with breakfast.
Dusting his hands off, Tobias smiled and stood again after having administered several reassuring head scritches, lifting his gaze to Grace and offering,
"I'm sure you probably figured this out already, but you really don't need to worry about him getting short tempered. Tank's always been a big softy. That said, Sam's attempts to dress him up have always ended in failure. Usually because he refuses to move until the silly outfit is taken off."
Grace nibbled the nectarine slices and sipped her tea while she watched the homely ritual taking place. It seems strange to see Tobias handling the dish, and then the cat, with such gentleness, given his new musculature-- which makes Grace's eyes drift down his exposed arms, his 'undersuit' doing almost nothing to disguise his new physique from her traitorously wandering gaze. "You did really well not to break the dish... because of your strength, you know..." she commented before she could stop herself.
She quickly flicks her eyes back to her empty plate, pushing a few crumbs around with her fingertip. Her heart was beating a little faster, and she felt a bit light-headed... Clearing her throat, she says quickly, trying to change the subject, "...Tank's a very nice cat. I actually never got the impression he'd ever be mean to anyone..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Grace's comment about his strength caused him to recall his waking up this morning...and the now destroyed top sheet that had suffered for such. He chuckles a little, then nods, adding,
"I think I'm starting to get the hang of it, honestly. I mean, I'm by no means 'over it', but I feel like I'm getting there."
As he stands, he pick up his raspberry popover, finishing it off before gesturing to her wing, though wondering why the traces of a blush were again present on her cheeks,
"What about you? How's the wing feeling today?"
He'd managed to ask such with more or less matter-of-fact inflection, however, seeing her as she was now, no longer made up brought him to realise that she was just as pretty without the makeup as she was with it...perhaps more so. He thankfully keeps eye contact, but even then is made aware of strong shoulders and arms, something he'd never thought he considered eye-catching before...but certainly was now.
Grace's left wing is unbound, and though the padding directly over the wound is still present, it is no longer anchored to her body. She is unaware of Tobias' appraisal of her, having taken for granted for many years the understated, but certainly not underused -strength- of her back, shoulders, and upper arms-- even though she wears tops that leave these areas open to be viewed at any time.
She looks over her shoulder at her left wing dubiously, but says, "...It doesn't hurt as much, almost not at all, just now. It's mostly if I move it in the 'wrong' way, or stretch too far..." As if to demonstrate, Grace looks over to her right side and carefully extends her right wing to it's fullest extent-- and this, in itself, is impressive indeed. The wing is beautifully well-kept, to the point that it's whiteness is almost -too- bright. And, as it stretches, it reaches a little farther than midway across the back of the couch nearby-- a good six feet away-- fully stretched out. She fans it once, looking very thoughtful about it, and snaps it back against her with a sharp sound of feathers and a motion of air before it.
Grace then looks over at the left wing, takes a steadying breath, and starts to stretch it out, too-- though the wall to her left means it won't get halfway unfurled before encountering an obstacle. She moves much more slowly, carefully, moving each joint with sensitivity and caution. The bandaging over the hole is pitifully obvious, but new feather growth is already encroaching around the edges of the bandaging, looking noticeably more healthy even than yesterday. Still, she only makes it about halfway before taking in a sharp. startled breath and pulling the wing back against her-- albeit more cautiously than she had with the uninjured one.
After this self-exploratory display, she says ruefully down at her plate, unable to make eye contact with Tobias, though she can feel him looking at her face, "...It's much better today, but-- I think I should probably keep it, you know-- bound against my side for another day or two. Or I'll try to move it without thinking about it..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias nods, seeming genuinely thankful of the fact she was improving, though as she fans out her right wing, he's honestly somewhat amazed at how broad her wingspan actually was. Not to mention, the almost mechanical way her feathers were arrayed, watching as they fan, flex and fold back to her body. It was a thoroughly fascinating display, as he'd only seen her wings mantled against her back up until now. Though as she extends her left wing, he can't help but let a cringe slowly work it's way across his face as it looks as though more and more pressure is placed on the wrist joint...until the startled breath she takes in causes the cringe on his face to culminate, a sympathetic hiss of pain snapping from his lips as she returns it to her back.
"Yeah, probably still a good idea to be gentle on it for now. I know you can heal people pretty quickly, but I dunno if that effect also works for you, too."
He then smiles and tries to find her eyes again, his head dipping some as he again speaks,
"Hey, chin up. You're gonna be fine. Dad'll see to that. And honestly? I think you should be proud of that wound. I mean, you got it doing some seriously brave things." He can't help but smile with further encouragement, a curious expression thanks to his partially inhuman looks, but an honest and genial one all the same.
Grace shrugged carefully, and used only her right shoulder, trying to look up at Tobias-- but getting stuck around his chest, his collarbones, seeing the bits of metal there as well, and ends up speaking to this part of his body instead of to his face, "I dunno if the healing thing works for me, but your dad kinda thinks it does. I wouldn't be this far along without it-- I might've..." She swallows, looks quickly away, "...I probably would've died, otherwise..." she says very softly, almost a whisper.
She shakes herself a little, wings rustling, and flicks a shy smile at Tobias, their gazes crossing just for a moment, "...I dunno about proud, but... maybe it was a -little bit- brave..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias smiles warmly and folds his arms, a thoroughly powerful display to be mild about it, before he shrugs, gesturing to her and offering "Well, you call it what you like, but I'll be honest: the only reason I'm standing here is because of you. So, rather than apologies, how 'bout I say thanks, instead?"
Admittedly, he'd dropped quite a bomb of information on Grace just then, basically stipulating that the the only reason he was now alive and well was thanks to her involvement and quick thinking on the day of the attack. Sure, she may not have done much in her own eyes, but like the butterfly effect, the smallest effort can lead to the greatest outcomes. He scoops up a donut, sighing heartily before taking a bite and pauses to let his hands settle against the counter top, shaking his head almost in disbelief before commenting,
"That...is a tasty donut. I haven't had a decent 'Old Fashioned' in honest-to-God months. The hospital kitchen tried to do them, but they have to omit a lot of the spices that makes it taste right."
Grace had jerked her head up and stared at Tobias for a long moment, her mouth slightly open in surprise and apprehension. She knew she'd been important in helping, but so had Wren-- and what did he mean by 'say thanks' exactly? Her mind flies off on some wild tangent, and so when Tobias stretched out his hand to pick up a donut, for a split second Grace was totally sure he was reaching for -her-, and had held her breath, paralyzed...
But then the moment passed, and her heart feels like she'd just been flying as fast as she could, hammering away at her ribs unmercifully. Her face is deeply flushed with color and warmth, and she quickly looks away, clearing her throat everso softly into a loose fist she brings up to her mouth. Her appetite is gone of a sudden, but she takes several drinks from her tea to ease the sudden dryness of mouth. She makes a noncommittal, sympathetic noise at Tobias' next words, trying forcibly to get herself back under some semblance of control.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobi blinks several times at her rather...interesting reaction, not sure if it was the comment about the donut or saying 'thanks' for basically saving his life. However, if her reaction was anything to go by, perhaps she had imagined him doing something decidedly more forward than he'd intended to? He pauses for a moment, half a donut sitting in his hand, the notion of what she might've been thinking of causing a bit of a glow to shimmer across his skin.
Still, he manages a smile, momentarily hiding himself behind the half circle of his food, finishing it off before speaking again, likely buying poor Grace some time,
"So, can I ask how you got into archery? I mean, it sounds like it was a hobby of yours well before the Hunger Games ever appeared on bookshelves, and it's not what you'd call a 'common' sport."
He'd deviated the conversation away from more embarrassing subjects, hopefully toward something Grace felt comfortable talking about and perhaps something she could boast on...at least, in her own, modest way.
Grace's heart still seems to be beating too loud for her to hear her own thoughts, but with her slender-fingered hands wrapped around the warm mug of tea, she seems a bit more at ease gazing into the half-empty cup.
"When I was young, they held summer camps for the children in my community, and Archery was one of the things they taught us..." she says into the liquid's surface, reaching in to disturb it with a fingertip. She's completely missed the 'Hunger Games' reference, as she's never heard of the movie or read the books. "...It was just for fun, and, well... I really liked it, so I kept practicing in between times. It felt good to do, but I had to stop a few times..."
She fidgets a little on the stool, gripping the bottom rung with her bare toes a little. "I had really bad shoulders for a little while, when I was younger-- right before my wings came in." She swallows, trying very hard NOT to think about those seven weeks of hell...
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias, perhaps in the spirit of empathy, replies by gesturing to himself, and intoning,
"Distance running. ALL the distance running. I did a lot of track and field in high school...and not because I was a big athletics jock or something, either." He pauses for a moment then adds,
"Especially after I got my diagnosis, it was the best way to keep my heart and lungs from degrading too quickly. Actually won a few meets, which surprised me more than anyone. Though I kept the fact I was sick quiet. Some of those guys were competitive enough. I can't imagine how they would've reacted knowing they lost to a sick kid."
He smiles a little at that, it seeming as though the vast majority of what Tobias felt for his prior illness was more of a disconnected objectivity. It was, at least going by how he spoke of it in jest, something he'd come to grips with a long time ago. Sure, that also may have also been the notion that it was set to kill him before his operation, but there seems to be little in the way of bitterness to speak of.
Grace is finally starting to regain-- if not her confidence, at least an equilibrium-- as Tobias freely ventures forth information about himself. She finds it easier to look up at his face, though her own chin is lowered so far and so demurely, she's often looking up through her lashes with a very shy inflection. She analyzes his voice-- or at least that's what she [i]thinks[/i] she's doing-- and senses no bitterness or emotional distress when he mentions his illness.
She's quiet for a moment, thoughtful, before looking away a moment. "I... I don't mean to pry or anything-- and if it makes you sad or uncomfortable you don't have to tell me, but... I work at the local hospitals pretty often now, helping to heal people who are sick and hurt. ...It's how I support myself, so I don't have to live at Nick's apartment forever, and-- well... You said you were 'degrading'... I was just curious, maybe, about what illness you had?"
Grace blushes immediately, and grows more pink as she finds her rambling way to the question she'd wanted to ask. She shyly traces a finger around the rim of her mug, hoping Tobias won't be offended-- and getting the feeling that he probably won't be.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias pauses to allow Grace to say her piece in it's entirety, before smiling, shrugging some and replying with,
"It's fine! I mean, I figured someone would be curious as to what would push me in the direction of [i]this[/i]-" He pauses a moment to gestures to his face, specifically his glowing eyes and the protruding steel plates, "-level of invasive surgery, and I'm now beyond it enough to look at it objectively."
He raises a hand, asking for a moment and vanishes into the hallway, returning not long after with what looked to be a picture frame that he deliberately kept obscured from her view...for now, setting it face-down on the counter top before explaining,
"I was suffering from what's normally called an 'Inflammatory Myopathy'. Basically, it's a muscular wasting disease. Depending on the type, it effects people in different ways. Mine stared in my legs and basically worked upwards...Started out with the odd stumble, occasional bouts of shortness of breath and irregular heartbeat and got progressively worse. By the time I was a high school senior, I was confined to a wheelchair. About seven months after I turned nineteen, I was in hospital on a permanent basis because I was too weak to get anywhere without help. It was getting to the point where I would eventually need a machine to breathe and pump blood for me...and that'd only work for so long. To explain all that visually, my condition took a normal, healthy teenager and turned him...into this."
With that, he picks up the picture frame, turning it over to reveal a photo of himself...but totally unrecognisable in comparison to the herculean figure that stood before Grace. It surely was Tobias, but he was rail thin, gaunt-faced, little more than skin pulled over a skeleton, the collared shirt he wore hanging off him like it was four sizes too big, his eyes, previously the same color as his father's now sunken and devoid of any light or spark.
Grace listened... and listened, her eyes coming back to Tobias' face. She is almost fully incapable of hiding her emotions, and they show plainly on her face-- a dawning realization, and a sympathy, and a growing horror.
When Tobias shows her the picture, Grace's hands fly to her mouth, and she sucks in an irrepressible gasp. Tears instantly spring into her eyes, making them glitter with moisture. She can see Tobias in the picture, somehow-- his father's eyes, the same hair... But though Grace has seen some terrible injuries, this is obviously the first time she has seen a wasting disease such as this. And even beyond that-- it's the first time she's seen the face, the captured emotion of a person who genuinely looks like they have fought so long and fruitlessly that they don't want to live anymore.
Her heart is painful in her chest, and a single tear escapes to slide down her face, still staring at the photo...
Before Tobias can respond, the stool Grace was sitting on squeaked against the kitchen floor, startling Tank from his breakfast, and the winged girl has stepped around the counter and wrapped her arms around Tobias, pulling him into her with surprising strength for her size. Her eyes are squeezed shut tightly, and the top of her head doesn't even touch the boy's chin, though her clean hair might incidentally do so. Her arms cinch tightly around Tobias' midsection, as she says with the characteristic waver of voice that comes with great emotion, "Oh, I'm so glad you didn't give up and die!"
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias' expression turns to one of remorse and apology as he spies tears welling up in Grace's eyes. Honestly, he'd just grabbed the picture to give her an idea what his illness had done to him over the course of the years prior. He really hadn't intended to make her [i]cry[/i]. However as she stands, rounds the kitchen counter and rather suddenly embraces him, he can't help but startle, his considerable form stunned to the spot by someone likely half his weight. It was also immediately apparent that Grace was far stronger than initial glances would account for, her arms squeezing tightly around his midsection.
He pauses for a moment, simply absorbing this moment with a vivid, green glow across his cheeks again, his arms not immediately sure of what to do, hovering for a moment before gently wrapping around her back, just beneath the joint of her wings. Finally, he can only find a sort of grateful huff of a laugh escaping him, a smile crossing his face as he nods in agreement,
"Yeah, I am too. Though I wouldn't be here if not for you and your friends. So...Thanks for saving me."
He allows his words to sink in for a moment, the proximity of her hair to his chin sending the occasional waft of scent his way, it appearing that like her wings, Grace's hair smelled good, too...
It takes Grace-- maybe-- ten seconds for the sudden upsurge of overwhelming emotion to ebb enough, her tears stopping, for her to realize what she'd done. And then, it's a surge of a variety of other emotions and sensations that keep her suddenly stiff and immobile for a few moments longer, her thoughts circling each other in a frenzy in her head...
A thought about how -tall- Tobias is, is chased around her paralyzed brain by the thought that he is also proportionally as well built as anybody she's ever even -heard- of, her arms suddenly and -highly- conscious of the powerful muscles of his midsection, and of the brush of his arms against some of the feathers of her wings held close to her back... That thought, too, is chased around by the tight, close-fitting cut of his top, the scent of 'boy' tickling her nose, and the realization that he isn't exactly letting her go, and what if he doesn't and she gets stuck, just standing here awkwardly forever, burning with an almost painful embarrassment--
Grace finally manages to break free of her increasingly frantic thoughts, simultaneously breaking free of Tobias' arms, taking two quick steps backwards, her hands held in loose fists against her chest as if she'd just laid them on a stove and burned them. Her head is turned away, face burning with color and heat in shame-- and confusion, as normally touching others was very natural and easy for Grace, and why should this have been any different?...
"Y-... Y-you're welcome..." she manages to whisper, so distressed and unsure of herself she can't raise the volume of her voice any more than that.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
As Grace had drawn away, so too had Tobias turned side-on to her to scrub the back of his neck, the lurid color in his cheeks undeniably obvious as he grins somewhat sheepishly, clearing his throat and flicking his eyes around the room for a moment. He'd come to starkly realise that for the moment he'd had his arms around her, he'd come to realise that Grace was most certainly a healthily-formed young lady, his hands still feeling as though they were on fire from the seemingly brief contact they'd had.
Suddenly crippled by the intense embarrassment of the situation, it likely takes a very long, and uncomfortable while for either of them to speak, Tobias thankfully venturing first. trying to divert the situation to something a little less awkward, though likely neither of them would forget the moment that had just transpired,
"So...I...uh....Can...I ask what your home town is like? I mean, I've always been a big city kid. Summer camps didn't really happen a whole lot. Summer usually meant hanging out at the Maul, trying to duck and weave around the jocks and beating the heat in the air-con. Can't imagine what you must've done with your Summers."
"So I... S-sorry..." Grace had said, almost at the same time as Tobias had spoken, quieting herself to listen to what he had to say. She smiled a little at the floor, appreciating his obvious effort to change the subject. She wipes her eyes circumspectly with the back of her wrists, and leans against the end of the kitchen bench with her hip, still averting her eyes.
"Ahm... W-well..." She'd never been asked before, so has to think about it for awhile, before beginning to answer. "...It's... it's really small, there were only like two or three hundred people... And it was mostly farmland and country and some small pockets of forest, things like that. Uhm... Let's see... M-my family owns several acres of land, and we had three horses and I don't know how many chickens at a time-- a dozen or so?--, half a dozen goats, some dogs and some cats..." She spares a fleeting smile, thinking about her new cat friend, Tank. "We have a big vegetable garden, and there's a creek in the forest that's on the south side of the property, so... I used to go fishing when I was young, and ride the horses around, take care of the animals... There's always something to do, but every year some of the older people in my community put together the summer camps, where most of us would go for a few weeks and learn archery and get to play with all kinds of new skills and things..."
She trails off shyly, hoping she's not making herself sound the country heathen.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias...actually smiles at the life she's describing, it sounding every bit as picturesque and idyllic as Titan City was a bustling hive of urbanised sophistication. He finds himself nodding, finally speaking,
"That actually sounds kinda nice. I mean, coming from a guy who knows nothing about horses and hasn't seen one face to face in his life, I wouldn't know the first thing about caring for one, but...The rest of it sounds like something I could certainly get into." He then smiles and shrugs, adding, "I bet I'd probably get a few strange looks, though. I mean, I'm pretty sure I've got some 'unique' looks for Titan City standards, never mind a smaller, country community."
Strangely, it appears he's rather swiftly come to grips with the curious appearance he now sported, the metal plates becoming more and more familiar to him as time goes on. However, regarding the admittedly gorgeous white wings now jutting from her back, he can't help but ask,
"Though, can I go out on a limb and ask: was there was probably a bit of commotion the day you started sprouting wings? I mean, I could just be assuming and your community could be full of meta humans...but it seems like you skipped town for a reason."
Grace huffs a bemused sound, commenting very softly, "...You probably wouldn't be accepted there at all..." She stared at the blue tape lines in the kitchen floor, feeling a sudden stillness in her heart, a slowing of the world. It reminds her in a rush of all the questions she has about herself, the reason why she herself had left. She'd been accepted, yes-- had even been viewed with awe and adoration. But... if she had been different, had looked like Tobias, or like Wren instead of an Angel?...
Her fingers grip the counter's edge, and Grace closes her eyes, her wings held thin and tight against her back. "...My brother found me... by the horse trough. I... I'd fallen down, it started so fast, it hurt more than anything you could imagine-- there was a lot of blood..." She swallows thickly, continuing to talk mostly out of reflex, unable to filter her thoughts for a few moments.
"I was... I was lucky, to have -this-... -this- happen to me, instead of something else..." she says very softly, somewhat stoically. "They all thought... Everyone thought I was an Angel, that this was a blessing from God-- on me, on the community... And when they found out I could heal?" She makes a soft sound. "I--..." Her knuckles are white on the counter.
"I've spent an awful lot of time wondering. I can't hear God. I don't remember Heaven... I don't think I'm an Angel, but-- does that mean my family, the people I grew up with, won't love me anymore?" Grace swallows softly, still gazing at the blue tape lines on the kitchen floor. "I don't know what I am... I don't know why this happened to me-- I didn't want it, and sometimes I have the stupid, horrible thought that I'd trade those seven weeks of torture just to be normal... But I have it, and God has some kind of plan, even if I'm not one of his Angels, I'm still some idea He had, at least... And I don't think I could ever give up flying, now that I know what it feels like..."
Again, this is incredibly verbose of the usually timid, quiet Grace. Emotional as she is, she likely doesn't even realize that many of those thoughts were spoken aloud. But, then again, maybe she has just wanted to tell -somebody- about them, and feels herself on that knife edge between 'friend' and 'acquaintance' with Tobias that leaves her feeling like she can say such things to him.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Listening to her description, as well as the swiftness with which she'd said that someone like him wouldn't be accepted rather swiftly brings him to draw several...less than charitable conclusions about the community she'd grown up in, however he reserves them for now, listening to her entire explanation before he decided to cast judgement. At the end of it all, he reaches across the bench between them to set a gentle paw on her white-knuckled grip of the counter's edge, a sympathetic expression crossing his face as he intones,
"Sounds like we've both suffered through a bit in our lives. But, I can't imagine being placed on that high a pedestal and wanting to stick around, either. I mean, I'm sure the people in your community aren't horrible people, but it sounds like they put a lot on your shoulders."
To look down to her hand would again hammer home the point that Tobias wasn't exactly 'normal' himself, the thoroughly unnatural steel knuckles evidence for that much. At her questions, Tobi's head bobs from side to side, as if he were trying to sort his words by shaking them around in his head,
"I...well, I'd go so far as to say that you sprouting wings happened for the same reason that I nearly died: one, big, genetic roll of the dice. But I feel like that cheapens things. I mean, you may not be an angel, but that just means you can do whatever you want with your gifts...and they [i]are[/i] gifts as far as I'm concerned."
He gives her hand a gentle squeeze, again an amazing display for someone as heavily built as he was, smiling as he adds,
"And if I had wings? You can bet your ass I wouldn't want to give 'em up either. Hell, I'm still kinda annoyed that my suit isn't flight-capable."
Grace had stiffened under the touch of Tobias' hand, only halfway listening for a moment or two. It unnerves her inside, how -different- it feels when Tobias touches her, or the other way around, since her healing -requires- it, and she's touched quite a few people since she acquired the ability... It's incredible, the contrast between them-- Grace seeming quite pale, her hand looking very small, slender in comparison to Tobias' much more masculine, large hand nearly engulfing her own. Not to mention the shiny plates that protrude everso slightly from the skin, demarcating knuckles, bones... She's a little surprised, too, to find that this physical aspect doesn't unnerve her, but does the opposite, intriguing her sense of curiousity. It would be good to learn about, from a purely healing standpoint...
The winged girl's face is very red by this point, her expression quite shy and even a little distant as she remained somewhere far away in her thoughts. She nodded several times-- once to the 'lot on your shoulders' comment, and once to the 'they are gifts' observation. She had widened her eyes a little at how it felt to have someone so strong he could probably break her in half squeeze her hand so -delicately-...
Startled by the language, Grace laughs unexpectedly, looking just as unexpectedly up at Tobias' face, into his vaguely glowing, green eyes. She stifles the amused sound and lowers her chin shyly, flicking her eyes away again-- and gently removes her hand from beneath his, using it to tuck her hair back behind her ear demurely. "...I'm s-sorry-- I'm really not strong enough to carry you when I fly-- I sometimes think my wings are only big enough for -me-..."
She clears her throat, suffering through an awkward silence, before changing the course of the conversation gently, shyly. "...Wh-... When did you think your father might get up? Or come home, if he's gone away somewhere? I... I don't know what to do with the bandages on my wing, and I think-- I think maybe he'd like to see it. ...-I- wouldn't..."
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
As her hand had slipped from beneath his, the sensation of her dainty fingers still lingered on the palm of his hand, Tobias coming to his full height once more, everything about him save for personality a hard-hitting and cumbersome thing.
He chuckles at her comment about not being able to carry him when she flies, shaking his head and adding,
"Grace, I wouldn't feel bad about not being able to single-handedly get me airborne. In fact, I'm pretty sure you'd need a crane chopper to get me off the ground...Either that or a jet engine. That armor weighs about three hundred pounds on its [i]own[/i], never mind adding me to the equation. I know I certainly wouldn't hold it against you if you politely declined to fly me anywhere."
In regard to her earlier question, Tobias nods and retorts with,
"Dad went out earlier this morning to meet with some of the other people involved with the project I volunteered for. I suppose they've now got to do the 'fun' part, which is analysing the data they got from operating on me and applying it elsewhere. I'm pretty sure he'll be back..."
At that moment, the front door clicked open, the busy voices of three people: one clearly Alan Wishart, the other an Arabian accented man and the last a perhaps middle-aged, English woman all chattered with decidedly intellectual excitement, about 'procedures', 'technology' and all manner of other subjects. The sounds of Alan excusing himself for a moment filled the air as he entered the living area, smiling and nodding to them both,
"Well, G'morning, you two. Looks like everyone slept well."
As he sets down a laptop bag and his coat, Alan takes a cursory glance at Grace's left wing, happy to see that the bandages were clean and free of discharge or blood, meaning that her wound was healing up without issue. As he passed by, he took a quiet peek into two baskets, shooting his son a curious gaze, to which the response of,
"Wren dropped them off this morning. Consider it a 'thank you' and a 'sorry about the floor' care package."
Alan made with a slient "Aaaah", before gesturing to Grace's wing with a donut, smiling and offering,
"Let me get my guests situated and I'll see about re-dressing that wing of yours."
That said, it would appear the 'guests' were all too interested in the voices coming from the living area, both a tall, and still very-much stunning woman of perhaps her forties with flaxen hair, sporting thoroughly professional attire and an Arabic gentleman who thoroughly looked like an engineer both standing and gazing awestruck, their eyes mutually affixed on Tobias, who simply smiled and made with a casual wave of a hand gesture,
"Hey! Aban. Doctor Price. Good to see you guys again."
Grace's head came up like a dog hearing a whistle at the sound of the door and multiple unfamiliar voices. Tank was off like a shot, slinking quickly out the back doors with a puffed tail, and Grace heartily wishes she could do the same-- but she hasn't any time. Alan Wishart's appearance would find Grace with her wings as tight and slim as they can be against her back, tight fistfuls of her white skirt gripped in her hands, her eyes studiously looking down at her bare feet-- she should have put on some sandals at -least-! "Morning..." she manages to reply meekly, flicking a shy glance up at the Doctor.
Grace had tried to protest that she would be fine for a little while, but hadn't gotten much further than opening her mouth when the other two people come into the room. She felt like the clear outsider, where Tobias had felt like one the night before, and sidled as unobtrusively as possible -away- from Tobias in the hopes that their attention would be taken by him, and maybe she could get away before either of the strangers noticed her...
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Initially speaking, Aban and Doctor Price are utterly intrigued by Tobias, somewhat disbelieving expressions on their faces as they approached, a low, muttering exchange of,
"He's big."
"Yes, but we knew he would be."
"I know, but it really doesn't hit home until you actually see him."
"Seems everything is operational."
Tobias stood amid this quietly-uttered analysis, flicking a wry glance to Grace before speaking up,
"Uh, guys? Why don't we start with 'hello' and go from there, huh?"
Alan in the meantime chuckled and shook his head, retorting kindly with,
"Give them a break, Tobias. They haven't seen you since you went into the Sarcophagus. Honestly, I'm surprised your sister didn't fall over backwards, either." Aban and Doctor Price both seem to snap out of a scientific trance to blink, glance around awkwardly, with Doctor Price flushing just a little with embarrassment, before curious eyes came to Grace, who was likely doing her very best to be as invisible as possible. Alan watched the questioning exchange, smiling gently and adding,
"Ah, yes. I think introductions are in order. Grace, may I introduce Aban al Sahran, Lead Engineer of Project Sentinel, and Doctor Catherine Price, one of the foremost experts on neurosurgery and neuroscience the world over. Aban was responsible for much of the technology that's currently implanted inside Tobias, as well as the suit of armor in the corner there. Doctor Price on the other hand lent her hands to implanting the neural mesh currently inside Tobi's sk-"
Tobias gently raised a hand, interrupting and adding,
"Dad, I don't think Grace needs to hear about the intricate details of my surgery. She just ate...and so did I."
Catherine chuckles gently and nods in agreement, her demeanour the very image of calm and sophistication, as Tobias goes onto explain,
"Grace was part of the group of people that stepped into help fend off the attack. In fact, she was the first one on the deck that day."
At this, Dr. Price is first to smile and nod gratefully in Grace's direction. She could see the poor thing was a little on the nervy side, and didn't want to cause any more stress to her, noting the bandages on her wing.
"Well, it's an absolute pleasure to meet you, young lady. I watched the footage of the attack on the news with my heart in my mouth. You were very brave."
Grace had managed to slide one foot slowly to the side, and was about to try to take another sideways step -away- from the group, holding her breath, watching the group of people through her lashes, her chin lowered--... When they all look at her for the first time. She freezes, much like a rabbit caught in the gaze of a fox, and flushes pink in the cheeks, unable to look away now.
Her heart is in her mouth, unusually apprehensive about meeting yet -more- doctors, and ones that had done extensive work with Tobias. When she swallows, her throat dry, it's clearly visible in the workings of her throat, and she's totally speechless for a few moments. She flicks her eyes to Catherine, knowing that neither of them means her harm, but feeling incredibly self-conscious meeting so many strangers in so few days. There's a very awkward pause, before Grace manages to make any words come out, flushed to the ears, her ponytail over her shoulder.
"Ahm... Th-thanks..." It was hardly more than a whisper, and Grace could just -expire- of mortification on the spot-- this extremely important person had seen her get shot on television... She looks down at her feet again, and takes a deep breath that makes her shoulders and her wings heave and relax, but doesn't look up again until addressed a second time, wishing she could melt away like an ice sculpture, despite the distinct lack of hostility or negativity from either of the visitors.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Catherine smiles a bit longer, Grace honestly reminding her of herself when she was young. Timid, incorrigibly shy, the very image of demurity. She knew how awkward it could be to meet new people so quickly, and thus offers a parting smile and a nod, before turning to regard Dr. Wishart,
"Alan, where are we setting up? Do we have a place out of the way of normal foot traffic?"
Alan thankfully nodded and pointed to the opposite end of the house,
"Down the hall, through the door at the end and turn left. There's a sitting area there which I think would be perfect. Aban, if you could help her get things in order, I guess we can start parsing this research data."
Catherine smiled and nodded, again the epitome of the winged lass' namesake, before she made her way out of sight, Aban simply pausing to offer Grace a thankful nod and little else, though his expression, clearly impressed and grateful said all it needed to. With that, he vanished down the hall as well, leaving Alan to chuckle a little and offer,
"Sorry if that was a bit much. You've met a lot of new people this week, it seems. Well, let's see to those bandages and you can get back to some rest and relaxation, as per the Doctor's orders."
Grace managed a brief, shy smile at Catherine, and a flicker of a glance and what might have been a little curtsy at Aban before both disappear down the other end of the house. The winged girl slumps noticeably as it returns to just the Wisharts and herself, and she gives Alan a pitifully grateful look.
"O-Okay... It doesn't hurt so much today-- only when I move it too fast or in a funny way..." She moves to follow Alan back to his 'office', but paused for a brief moment to look over her shoulder at Tobias and smile softly, giving him a nod in a friendly way, then hurrying after Alan again.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Tobias had to wonder what that nod had meant, but figured it was permission for him to follow, his footsteps padding to join his father and Grace in the 'office'...albeit him hovering a few feet off the ground while he did. After all, she'd just [i]smiled[/i] at him, it a world apart from the usual, shy, cautious smiles she'd given him previously. As he entered, Alan was already going through the almost routine process of collecting the gauzes, bandages and ointments needed to re-dress Grace's wound, setting them out on the rolling table before gesturing for her to sit on the exam table again,
"Now, let's see what day two has to say for itself..." Alan says inquisitively, gently working to snip away the bandages around her left wing's wrist joint. He very gently began to remove the gauze and bandages, peeling them away to sit back and smile,
"And we're looking really good! No signs of infection, and it seems as though the granulated tissue is just about properly healed. Also looks like your body is absorbing the sutures without any issues. Everything looks right on track. More than on track, actually. I guess all the good food and rest is doing wonders for your accelerated healing factor."
Tobias had joined his father, perhaps a few steps behind him, a gentle, sympathetic hiss of phantom pain coming from his direction as he vividly imagined what the wound must have looked like the day she'd sustained it. There comes from Tobi a mouthed, thoroughly emphatic "Ow!" and perhaps a certain look in his eyes that was clearly impressed at how much of a trooper she was being. Most people would be complaining to high heaven about the fact they'd been shot. And yet, here Grace was, calm and unobtrusive as ever, gladly submitting to Dr. Wishart's helping hands. As he re-bandages the wound, he explains,
"Now, it's probably going to be a little itchy for the next few days, but don't worry, that's a good thing. Means the body is increasing blood flow to that area and helping to rebuild what was damaged. I've applied an anti-itching cream to it to hopefully alleviate that. If it keeps healing the way it is, I'm going to say we probably won't have to bind your wing come tomorrow. I'll also be looking to let the area breathe a little, maybe try a few stretches. However, for now? You're all patched up."
Tobias expels a relieved sigh, nodding encouragingly and offering a silent round of applause, smiling to her while Alan moved to re-bind her wing, before stepping aside and offering the help her back to the floor.
Grace had followed Alan, a bit surprised at Tobias coming along, too... But, well-- she'd saved his life, he'd said so. He probably wanted to make sure she was alright. And in case Alan was away or busy, he'd know how to help Grace with her wing...
The winged girl had gone willingly to the table this time, suffering the occasional twinge and jolt of pain-- though Doctor Wishart does a really excellent job at keeping the manipulation to a minimum, and the pain. She releases a breath of relief she didn't know she'd been holding at the news that the itching was normal-- and that she'd be able to use it gently probably by tomorrow. It strengthens her resolve not to do much of anything today if she can help it-- to keep eating and resting, if it's doing her so much good! Grace is an excellent patient.
Grace smiles shyly at Tobias' silent encouragement, and then looks at his offered forearm curiously for a moment, before laying a hand very gently on it and sliding off the table onto the floor again, the tiles cold on her bare feet, making her shiver. "Thank you very much, Doctor Wishart," She says quietly to Alan with a little curtsy and a small smile. "Um... Should I-- I think I'll maybe stay outside o-or in the Guest House, unless you want me over here or something..." She looks down at her feet shyly, thinking it would be better if she were out of the way of the other Doctors in the house-- and whatever research it was that they were doing.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Alan shakes his head, smiling gently and offering "It's more than alright, Grace. And myself and my colleagues will be down the other end of the house anyway, so if you want to watch something, I'm sure it won't be a problem. Either way, the choice is yours. Tobias will be on-hand to help out should you need it."
At that, Tobias thumbs his chin thoughtfully, adding,
"Actually, I believe I was supposed to be helping you set up a few targets for when Levi returns with your bow, y'know, if you're still interested." He then begins wracking his brain for things that might work effectively, wondering what might've accumulated in the house in the past six weeks that might function as a decent archery target. Whatever the case, Tobias couldn't be happier for the fact that Grace's wings are healing nicely, the glow of his eyes seemingly brighter at the news....or maybe he was still recalling the smile she'd shot him before she'd had her wing seen to, it lingering around in his mind like a pleasant breeze. Finally, he manages to pipe up,
"And while those guys are in the talking ALL the science, I figure you and I can kick back, watch a movie, or just sit around and chat a bit. It's a nice day outside, after all."
Honestly, at this point Tobias would probably be happy just sitting in the same room as Grace, the humble, unassuming nature of her only serving to make it seem as though she were remarkably prettier with every moment that passed by, his arms idly folding as he waited for some manner of a response one way or the other.
Grace considers for a few moments, looking to Alan for confirmation that shooting her bow isn't going to hurt her wing... and then saying shyly, "Uhm... I know what kind of targets I can use... Maybe I'll just look around for some things-- while you pick out another movie that might be good to watch?" She directs the question to Tobias, sounding as if she's restraining her eagerness. She's probably only seen a handful of movies, now, and each one is a bizarre and wonderful experience for her, story-telling in a whole new way.
"Ahm... I'll just... do that then..." She slips out of the Office before anyone can waylay her and pads rapidly out of the house onto the pool deck. She looks around for rubbish bins, of all things, and, once found, would open up the recycling to look for bottles and cans-- probably a really incongruous sight, standing on tiptoe and digging gingerly through the Wisharts' bins.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
As Grace departs, Alan quietly folds his arms, turns to his son and arches a telling brow, saying little, leaving Tobias to try and figure out his father's meaning...or at least feign ignorance. The look of 'you've been out less than a week and already you're making moves?' utterly undeniable as Tobi glances aside, clearing his throat and flicking his gaze back to his father, intoning only,
"What?"
Alan simply sighed and shook his head, before following Tobias out of the 'office', admittedly an expression of droll amusement upon his face. He certainly couldn't fault enthusiasm.
Tobias in the meantime saunters into the entertainment room, rifling through the stack of movies under the TV, trying to figure out something to watch...preferably, something that was a little less intense than Pacific Rim. Something with a little more 'feel good' to it. After sifting through a few more cases, he finally smiles and plucks out a blue ray case, nodding in approval.
His choice: WALL-E.
With selection in-hand, he begins making his way back outside to see where Grace had gotten to...and partially intrigued to find out just what she thought was a viable target for her arrows.
[center]--------[/center]
Outside, over the fence that separated the Wishart family's home from their obnoxious next-door neighbours, someone spied a figure seemingly rifling through Alan Wishart's trash cans. And while he'd normally not have much of a reason to care, for some reason Brian, the muscle-headed, no-necked, 'do you even lift, bro?' son of Kyle and Karen decided to say his piece, unwittingly speaking to Grace as she delicately sorted her way through the Wishart's refuse. He sniffed, washing down the efforts of his workout with a mouthful of banana protein shake, then commented,
"Dude...why are you digging through the doctor's trash? It's not like he throws out anything good."
Grace squeaks and jumps, her right wing flailing out to balance her as she windmills a little, dropping the armful of bottles she'd been selecting from the bin onto the pool deck with a moderate clatter and ruckus. Heaving a bit for breath from startlement, she puts her hands on her sternum, snapping her good wing back behind her. She gazes up at the admittedly strange face looking at her over the fence, and is struck a bit dumb again, unable to think of what to say, her mouth opening and closing fish-like for a moment or two, wondering how this person knew what the Wisharts threw out anyway.
"Oh--ahm-- I-I'm just looking for some bottles..." She stammers out meekly, said bottles now all around her.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
Brian's initial motivations had been little more than obnoxious snooping, however as Grace turned around and revealed the fact that she was an attractive young lady, the meat-head had immediately changed his tone. A thoroughly slimy smile crossed his face as he set an arm on the fence, leering at her and intoning,
"Weeeell, what's goin' down, girlie? Why are you lookin' for empty bottles when you and I could be sharing a full one and getting...better acquainted."
Wielding subtlety with all the finesse of toddler brandishing a lamp stand, he waggled his eyebrows as Tobias emerged from the house, movie and case in-hand, idly uttering,
"Okay, so I think I found something you might enjoy. It's a little less...intense than the last movie we watched but..."
His words cut short as Tobias spied his neighbor, expression immediately turning to that of a vaguely annoyed furrow, a single name, dripping with droll inflection, and perhaps thinly-veiled animosity tumbling out of his mouth,
"Brian..."
Brian, as he'd been identified, craned his head back at this unfamiliar face...which seemed remarkably familiar all in the same moment. Mostly, he was puzzled by the glowing eyes and the metal plates that Tobi now sported, and certainly wasn't so diplomatic as to not say something about them,
"Dude, what happened to your [i]face[/i]? Did you like, try and make out with a Humvee grille at ninety miles an hour or something?" Brian proceeded to chortle to himself, his gaze flicking to Grace for some manner of approval, expecting to find it. While Tobias, whom Brian hadn't yet picked as the previously sickly guy next door simply rolls his eyes. Patience was a virtue...Patience was a virtue...
Grace had decorously crouched, meanwhile, and gathered up her armful of bottles again, hugging them against her stomach-- from a 2 liter to soda cans to water bottles, she had one of everything, it looked like...
Her sense of 'unease' is suddenly quite troubled as she looks between Brian and Tobias, and she swallows down a lump of apprehension, taking a deep breath... Exhaling calmly, she says, "No, sir, he just did something very brave. If you'll excuse us, we won't be bothering you anymore." She takes the situation-- and Tobias' wrist-- in one of her hands, and turns to walk back into the house, dragging Tobias behind her before things can escalate.
Little did she know, she'd also just used a bit of her as yet undefined 'empathy' in what Tobias might call a 'Jedi Mind Trick', emanating a soothing and deflecting aura, shifting the neighbor's attention to something -other- than herself, but not waiting around to see if it had worked-- since she was unconscious of doing it tin the first place.
She releases Tobias' hand and sets her finds on the kitchen counter, circling it to wash her hands hastily. "He seems... erm... -interesting-," Grace says delicately as she washes her hands.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
When Grace had returned from outside, pulling Tobias with her, a light, unmistakable chime of a doorbell rings throughout the house. Nick had woken up late, one of his rare instances of sleeping in, and he and Levi had went by the Whitehold to pick up Grace's bow. Nick wascurious and slightly worried to see how Grace's wing was doing, and if she needed anything else from anywhere, although he doubted it. The Wisharts were taking good care of her.
In the back of Nick's mind thoughts of Tobias still lurked, but they were far less judgemental than before. But he was still going to keep an eye out. However, he was regretful that he wouldn't he able to stay very long, because he had one of his rare business meetings right before lunch and then he was going to stop by Ray's for his weekly pizza.
He was still regretful of not being able to protect his family, but a good night's rest -- or as good as he could manage -- had abolished most of the thoughts. Levi had also encouraged him to forget them, being able to convince him that Wren and Grace had not meant to not text him. But, occaisionally a thought would arise, but it was as nearly as quickly gone.
Levi had also been thinking. Veron had given him much food for thought the night before, and he was still considering all the variables and repercussions of removing his 'shackles.' He was glad to be able to assist Miss Grace, however, and attended the trip with Nick with as much joy as an emotionless bot could muster.
Nick wore another pair of faded blue jeans, his favorite shirt, black with the periodic table on the front, and his lab coat. His usual black, worn sneakers accompanied him, and he was currently carrying Grace's bow and her collection of arrows.
Before any manner of escalation can occur, Tobias is gently directed away from the potentially hostile situation as Brian, rather curiously finds that any previous reason to issue Grace any attention suddenly evaporates...as if she weren't even there to begin with. He stares, blinks and then turns and slinks away from the fence to do...something that was seemingly more important.
Tobi in the meantime had suffered from a brief spike in aggression before it had immediately vanished as well. However, if it was the result of Grace, or his aggression inhibitors kicking in remained to be seen. As she leads them both back into the house, Tobi sighs and shakes his head,
"Sorry about that. Probably should've warned you about that guy. Brian an be a real 'charmer' when he's got the motivation. I never knew that making fun of terminally ill people could constitute as a viable and socially acceptable hobby until I met him..."
He sighs and shakes his head, but immediately is brought to attention by the sound of the doorbell, his head swinging toward it, eyes emitting a soft pulse of light. He then smiles to Grace, his expression lighting up as he intones,
"Looks like your bow just got here. Hang tight, I'll get it."
He swiftly jogged to the front door to answer the call of the doorbell, the front door swinging open to reveal Nick and Levi...or most of Levi that wasn't obstructed thanks to the front door cutting him off short at about the shoulders. Sure enough, the requisite equipment was with them, and while Tobi had to wonder how long Nick planned on staying, he also knew that trying to hurriedly shoo him away would be a really suspicious-looking move on his part.
Besides, he was the closest thing to family that Grace had in Titan City. She'd be glad to see him.
With a greeting nod and a gesture over his shoulder, Tobias steps out of the way of the front door,
"Morning, guys. Why don't you come on through and make the delivery yourselves? If I took that off your hands, I'm scared I might break it."
Grace had finished washing her hands and had been drying them, about to respond that no, it was alright-- and she didn't think Brian was very 'charming' at all-- when the doorbell rang and made her jump. She hadn't been this jumpy since she arrived in the city the first time...
She's left alone in the kitchen for a moment, long enough to quickly untie her hair, run her fingers through it, tie it back again, and to smooth out her skirt, hoping she looks like she's feeling better-- despite having the bandages wrapped around her wing and binding it to her back again. She still had mixed feelings about practicing with the bow in it's black case, but she was still going to do it.
*Brevity of Grace* - 50 Emp/Archery Defender
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/grace-just-grace]Backstory - Just Grace[/url]
*Hematitan* - 50 Grav/FF Controller
[url=http://cityoftitans.com/forum/allison-morris-hematitan]Backstory - Hematitan[/url]
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