Eurasia - Skydeck

 

        Nestled at the very top of Eurasia, this park is the small secret of Eurasia, and considered by many the most beautiful place on the station. Massive transparisteel windows cover this area, and grass and trees are maintained by a dedicated gardening staff. Though a few restaurants and tourist destinations line the edge of this park, it sees little use, and is a good place to come to be alone. Even the security here seems relaxed, and there is virtually no problem with any crime here. Mechanimals and birds are the only things that actually live here, but it's not unusual for some people to remain for hours, just watching the beauty of space from the many grassy hills that dot this pinnacle of the mighty station.

 

 Contents:                               Contents:                     

 Tron Bonne [Pirate_Princess] [C]

 

 

 Lift Down <LD>:           Eurasia - Empire Central Square

 

Elpizo arrives from the Empire Central Square.

Elpizo has arrived.

 

Elpizo

- Pliskin --------------------------------------------------------------------

 

A man of average height and build with a somewhat surly look created by the structure of his face when his expression slides towards neutral. His hair is somewhat long and unruly, off-blonde with a natural wave to it that only serves to make it a bit more suggestive of a mane than a long haired man normally would have. He has strong cheekbones and a hawkish nose that give him a slightly predatory look only made striking by the color of his eyes: a piercing electric blue. His jaw is covered by a bit of stubble, perhaps a day or two, of brownish hair.

 

He wears an olive drab muscle shirt over his upper torso, tucked into a pair of fatigue pants dating from the era of the death of the human UN military, a pixilated camoflage print that works well in desert, jungle or urban settings. The pants are, in turn, tucked into a pair of old army surplus combat boots. Over all of this he's wearing a dull, brown trenchcoat with the symbol of the UN armed forces on one shoulder in the appropriate place but no rank or division marker on the other sleeve.

 

His manner is reserved, his tone is subdued. He seems a gruff and sour sort of person, just the sort of man that you would expect to see wearing the trappings of an ex UN military man, outdated and outmoded in the era of robot warriors who jump and die for their human masters like the loyal drones they think that they aren't.

 

------------------------------------------------------------------ Mercenary -

 

Clash Bluebird arrives from the Empire Central Square.

Clash Bluebird has arrived.

 

Rush Raccoon arrives from the Empire Central Square.

Rush Raccoon has arrived.

 

        Sitting quietly on a grassy hill on the Skydeck is none other then the Pirate Princess, Tron Bonne. Clad in her usual regalia for the moment, she is alternating focusing on a datapad in front of her and watching the stars above. Emerald eyes seem to shine with the reflected starlight as she merely relaxes, enjoying herself and catches up one old news and current world events.

 

        Seems Tron has taken a renewed interest in the world at large.

 

Storm Owl frowns. This place reminds him too much of the luxurious waste of space also known as the Skydeck that infests his ship. While he recognizes the moral benefit that it's meant to have on those of the more emotional persuasion, Storm Owl can't help but note all of the security flaws that a large, open park protected only by the clear ceiling presents. The war bird idly wonders how Eurasia handles it; something to ask Captain Nova, should he run across her.

        Regardless, the owl is part way through the park, sitting on one of the benches. Through the power of fate, the bench is quite close to a certain grassy hill upon which a Pirate Princess is sitting. A datapad is in his hands as he reviews information about who might have to give up what in these peace agreements. While he supports the end to open warfare with the Neo-Arcadians, the fact that the humans seem to have been bargaining from a position of strength is a failure of the Reploid army. No doubt peace would have been reached in a more favourable manner were Repliforce armies currently surrounding Aztlan, constantly bombarding them from afar. But no time for regrets.

        It isn't like Clash Bluebird isn't trying. After all, it's been... how long? since the Neo-Arcadian revolt that put him down for repairs. Out on the Skydeck shouldn't be too hard, and after all, Storm Owl's here. Experienced members of the same group in the same area should be comforting. Somehow, though, it isn't.

        Clash is leaning up against a tree, keeping an eye out on the area. Also, though, he's rationalizing his jitters as a simple case of having been out of duty for too long. Things are fine. Eurasia is peaceful. The area is beautiful. There's a Pirate Princess over on that hill. He can- wait, Pirate Princess? He's heard of Tron Bonne before, but is that really her? He can't help but turn an eye on the girl. Well, doesn't that just beat all...

 

Faces like Storm Owl, Tron Bonne, and such other people can get away with just waltzing around in public without getting scrutiny, fans, or things just start happeneing around them. Unfortunately though, famous faces like Rock, Bass, Elpizo, General, Sigma, and Vile cannot just go out to relax and enjoy the surroundings without having to deal with fanatics either for them or against them.  

 

Commanche Pliskin happens to be one of those people that can just go anywhere he pleases, without too much trouble. Some expert people, who study famous faces, might have caught a glimpse of him when the original Skinners started about. A rouge bounty hunter known for his skills in an assortment of weapons, and various piloting craft. His long, bushy, blonde hair is tied up in a hair tie, and flows freely behind his back.         

            It also just so happens that he is making his way through the park as well.

 

        The Pirate Princess seems mostly unaware of the strange things going on very close to her. She obviously is getting attention, of course... its not like she hasn't been seen on Wanted Posters in most major countries. She seems focused on her datapad for a moment, smiling a dark and dangerous smile. Oh yes. Tron Bonne is up to SOMETHING!

        Let the world beware.

        As for the Owl, the Bluebird, and the Pliskin... they are for the moment only agknowledged out of the corner of Tron's eye as she seems to be more intently focused on what she is working on.

 

Michael Eildath arrives from the Empire Central Square.

Michael Eildath has arrived.

 

Storm Owl is generally recognizable enough for strangers to notice him due to his lofty position and constant appearances in the news. Thankfully, however, he is low-key and 'uncool' enough to be allowed to waltz around in public without getting scrutiny. That we have a nearby beautiful Pirate Princess to draw any attention away from him and over to her is merely a happy coincidence.

        "Tell me, Private," he idly says to Clash in his droning monotone, who seems interested in the gal sitting in the grass, "Are you new to the Repliforce? Did you serve in the war with Neo-Arcadia?" Despite his words, Storm Owl knows full well that the war is likely far from over, even if on paper we have peace. Storm Owl looks up from his datapad for the answer, still sitting on the park bench.

 

        All too happy to shift his gaze to a superior officer, Clash gives Storm Owl the respect due his position... at least, that's how it goes in Clash's mind, anyway. "Sir, I've served in Repliforce since 2217. I was one of the border guards in the original Neo-Arcadian uprising." He pats his left arm. "Took some rather heavy damage to my arm. I've been out of action since then, sir." Let it never be said that military code didn't make Clash feel useful.

 

Pliskin makes his way up the path to where the general congregation of Tron, Clash, and Storm were at. He glances at Storm, as the conversation turns to something briefly, and in his rude self proclaims, "I used to work for Neo Arcadia, 'afore my employers got totally absorbed into the ranks. I'ma freelancer.. and I do not like they way they do things, honestly."

 

Michael Eildath isn't taking part in anything. He's wandering around the park with a guitar on his back. Yay guitar.

 

        The Pirate Princess, sitting on her little grassy hill, types away with some contentment. Then... she starts doing something strange. She quietly begins to giggle. Then to chuckle. Then to right out laugh. Then to a positive CHORTLE! "Haaaahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!"

        SOMEONE is enjoying herself, and has evil things planned.

        Flopping back on the grass, resting her datapad on her stomach, she spreads her arms wide on the grass and just enjoys the feeling as she smiles gleefully, panting slightly, staring up at the stars... ...stars that mean even more to her now.

        It is only then she notices the group nearby... turning her head on the grass a bit, her emerald eyes studying each individual. Including Storm Owl. A familiar face, and a nice one. The Butterball has been surprisingly amicable to the Bonnes in the past. She doesn't recognize the Bluebird, or the blonde, handsome Merc. But, she studies them casually.

 

Storm Owl gives a follow-up question. "How did you find it, from a soldier's perspective?" Storm Owl is all too well aware of his own weaknesses regarding his inability to relate to what others are 'feeling'. But he does recognize the importance morale has, and thus is limited to essentially asking others what morale is like. Also, Storm Owl's job, on the relatively safe Fortress V, keeps him very secluded from the rigors that the average trooper experiences. Should the war begin anew, Storm Owl wants to make sure that the Repliforce is prepared to launch a new offensive against Neo-Arcadia and take back the land that was lost.

        At the arrival of Pliskin, however, the war bird quiets down. "Fascinating," he notes with an arched optical brow. He doesn't seem to care how rude it may be. "Elaborate. Which employers? Why would you work for a rogue nation if you do not agree with their ideals? What is your current status with them? What were your duties?" Storm isn't known for manners either as he fires off the series of questions Pliskin's way.

        Tron Bonne's laughing, however, is noted and catalogued, but is otherwise ignored. There already too many signs of 'fun', 'enjoyment', and 'leisure' in the park.

 

        It takes him a few moments to respond. Clash apparently still has an issue or two with the whole thing. "I can understand the need to seize for yourself a better life, a better position, all because of what you believe in. But... it was disturbing, their fervor. Their faces, as they attacked... I do not think I could forget it if I tried, sir." Pliskin is listened to, and responded to. "People need to walk their own path, I suppose. No soldier ever truly wants to see bloodshed forever, unless they are mad." Running a hand through his plumage, Clash chuckles. "The irony of 'Before peace, there must be war' will always be chuckle-inducing."

 

The man scratches his neck, and he grins at Storm Owl, "When we get married, birdie, we haven't even gone on our honeymoon and you are already demanding much," Pliskin stuffs his hands in his pockets, and continues, "My employers vary, and they really don't concern you much, I am afraid. Unless of course, you offer the right price. I'm out of work at the moment, and since you seem interested, I could speak for the right price."

 

        The Pirate Princess continues to study the three individuals for a moment, smiling a bit at some of the conversations taking place. Raising her legs as a pink gloved hand snakes down to snatch her datapad and slip it into the pocket of her small jacket, the Pirate Princess performs a surprisingly athletic move for her. She kicks herself to her feet, taking another small smile of pride at her accomplishment. Someone has been training a BIT more then her mind in the recent months.

        Her unique hairstyle returns to its usual state with surprising speed, the locks of hair seeming to come alive and return to the 'Lemon Wedge' shape. Her emerald eyes study the Owl, Clash, and this new Merc.

        She, in turn, walks over to a nearby tree to lean against it for the moment... though... well well. Is that? Eh. She'll mess with good ol' Mike later.

        She's rather curious about the Repliforcers and the Merc though.

 

Storm Owl looks back at Clash. Apparently these feelings are common amongst Repliforce troopers. Not everyone is able to ignore the psychological effect of things and look at issues objectively like Storm Owl. If this sounds like a tremendous advantage, it is - except that it also means he doesn't -understand- the psychology of others, which makes him unable to adequately take advantage of them. Storm's the odd man out, that is to say.

        "Many of the Neo-Arcadians are mad, I have come to realize. It is a flaw many of them share. Nevertheless, so long as we are able to keep our composure and act responsibly we shall have the advantage."

        Turning towards Pliskin, Storm Owl obviously doesn't get the joke. "I am not in the business of hiring unknown mercenaries. If you are truly interested I would suggest contacting Major Crescent Grizzly." Let Cres deal with these sell-sword trash. "However I would advise you that those willing to sell out to another side purely for financial reasons generally do not make satisfactory allies."

        Storm Owl spots something out of he corner of his optic, and peers in Tron's direction. She's definitely watching them. Why?

 

        Clash has taken a more active notice of Tron's observances as well. Though he answers Storm Owl, he's looking at Tron curiously. "It would not suprise me. It seemed, at the very point that I was fighting down there, that... well, it sounds really screwed up, and I'm not an expert on such things. I actually thought that the Humans had come down with some form of the Sigma Virus, or something similar. I have to wonder if that wasn't a defense mechanism, though." He looks down at the grass. "It was still the first time I crossed blades with humans..."

 

Pliskin smiles wrly, "Which is why no one has ever offered a high enough price. Commanche Pliskin, at your service." At least the name should ring some familiarity in Storm Owl's sonic sensors. He's been known for being one of the best sell-swords in the business, just after the original Maverick attack against Mexico. He maintains his smile as he regards Storm Owl.        

            "Though, I don't know much about Neo Arcadia, all I know is that their President has very little tolerance for failure. Thankfully enough, he has not been able to find me."

 

Michael Eildath hears the name Comanche Plisken. Despite being flagrantly aliasriffic, it strikes a tone deep in Michael's psyche. He thinks back, mind drifting several years into the past, to the early days of the Maverick occupation of Europe. He's suddenly /quite/ interested in this conversation.

 

        Tron leans back and smiles up at the stars, knowing she is noticed right back. She looks then to Storm Owl and Clash, and offers a bit of a saucey wink to both Repliforcers. She doesn't want to intrude on their conversation, but is generaly listening as its quite interesting. The war between the Repliforce and Neo Arcadia has been a two fold benefit for people in her line of work. Not only could she and the general Bonne Black Market contacts make money selling to either side(or militants in the warzones), but otherwise made quite a bit of money in this wartime.

        She listens to the words of Storm Owl, considering the events of the current battles as well as the Repliforce and Neo Arcadians stances. She considers how she can take advantage of the situation.

        Commanche Pliskin, huh? Yep. Obviously an alias... but she doesn't recognize anything beyond that.

        Turning her emerald eyes to Mike, she locks them on him with some warm regard, and offers a small and saucy wink to him as well, as well as a small wave.

 

Storm Owl frowns at Clash. "Another virus? Are you sure this wasn't merely 'combat jitters' or other explainable psychological effects?" He then adds, "Fighting a human Neo-Arcadian should be no different than fighting a Reploid or Android. Both are enemies, both seek to subvert the ideals that the Repliforce hold, and both have weaknesses. That they are human is irrelevant. If they are threats to society, then they must be dealt with, regardless of race."

        To Pliskin, Storm Owl quips, "Given that your services apparently hold a very high financial cost, Commanche Pliskin, and that out of work, perhaps you should reconsider the price. You insinuate that you failed Neo-Arcadia? How?" Storm Owl ignores the wink, despite it being saucy. As the Playful Pretty Purple Pirate Princess continues her winks and waves to the others in the area, Storm Owl feels the need to glance in her direction and drone, "Is there something you require, Ms. Bonne?"

 

        Clash thinks and responds quickly. "I am aware of this, sir. However, it was a "milestone", my Creator said. Merely something to reflect upon, which I have. I am fairly certain that their 'fervor' was merely combat jitters to me." When Storm Owl quipps at Rockman Barbie, he looks over at Tron more pointedly. Saucy winks do not affect robots, and so he wonders if the wink was a misplaced distraction attempt. It may have backfired.

 

"I never failed. I just up and left. I know stuff they don't like me knowing, and I am sure if Elpizza found out where I lived, it might turned ugly. But, I have never been caught," Pliskin says with an air of arrogance. He turns his gaze to Tron as she is addressed, but then something catches his eye.  

            Hello there.    

            Pliskin offers a briefly, familiar wave to Mike, as if he knew him.

 

Michael Eildath ignores Tron. She's literally half his age, and he's not going for any winkage. He keeps his eye on Pliskin, expression neutral. His only reaction is to not, slinging his guitar from his back and leaning it against a tree, where he also settles back, crossing his legs and just listening.

 

Singularity Shrike arrives from the Empire Central Square.

Singularity Shrike has arrived.

 

        Tron turns her head around to the Butterball Owl, before offering a warm smile to him. "Just enjoying the starlight, Storm Owl. Just enjoying the starlight. Besides... I find the conversation fascinating... and didn't want to interuppt." Tron leans away from the tree and smiles to both, offering a slight nod to Pliskin. Then she walks rapidly towards Storm Owl and steps up beside him.

        Leaning in, she gives him a warm peck on the cheek.

        "For helping Bon that time. He needed your help that time, and my thanks. Its not much, especially to a Reploid, but its the thought that counts, doesn't it?" Tron smiles. "Now, I can stop playing 'Little Miss Pirate Spy' if you want and go on my merry way." Tron then pauses to look to Clash, "I've not met you yet, by the way. Though I see you're Repliforce." RF Insignia et all. "Tron Bonne." Tron extends a hand to Clash.

 

Singularity Shrike walks in. A party! And nobody told him? Yeah. He's still the new guy.

 

Rush Raccoon arrives to see how the peace talks are going down. he is intrested. And he arrives just in time to see Tron Bonne kissing Storm Owl.

            Well..thats something you don't see everyday.

 

"Most freelancers," Storm Owl notes dryly, "Would generally not be encouraged to reveal information about themselves that could be used against them. Are you not concerned with someone-" Read: Me. "-revealing your location to President Elpizo as a 'show of good faith' for our peace talks?" The tone suggests that this is not meant to be a threat or anything, but merely a question. But with Storm Owl's monotone voice, who knows.

        To Clash, Storm Owl says, "Ensure that you are able to control these jitters and that it does not affect your duties." Unfortunately, ordering people to become psychologically perfect soldiers rarely seems to work. Funny, that. "However, I must admit th-" Storm Owl's gaze falls towards Tron as she approaches, and he's cut off completely as she kisses him on the check. The way the war bird reacts would make you think it never happened in the first place. To be frank, the reaction is minimal at best.

        "Your gratitude is noted. I'm pleased to learn that the Bonnes appear to no longer hold a grudge against me." Or Tron doesn't, anyway. Teisel still might come gunning for his head. "However keep in mind that we are still dedicated to halting your illegal activities."

 

        At Storm Owl's admonition to control his jitters, Clash Bluebird salutes. "Affirmative, sir. I believe that my off-time helped me to take corrective measures against further occurances of the combat jitters phenom..." Even he has to stop and blinkgaze at the Owl/Tron kiss. He smirks, and though his memory banks report Tron Bonne for what she is known as, he still can't help but grin at the irony of the happening.

        And then she addresses him. A wing comes out and the tip makes its way to the woman's hand. "Yep. Repliforcer raised. Clash Bluebird. A pleasure, Miss Bonne."

 

"Oh, but, guess what," Pliskin regards Storm Owl, "Even if you did tell Elpizo, it would not matter. I'd be long gone, and I have my connections. Listen, bub. I am just -that good-, got it?" The man folds his hands behind his back, "Besides, I have not told you where I live. For all you know, I could have a nice little hut on the Fortress Fives, hm?"

 

Singularity Shrike looks around, and realizes he might be a touch underdressed. He also realizes that it is more than likely a good thing that he left his spear in his quarters. He looks around for someone to talk to.

 

Michael Eildath hmphs, but stays silent. Brood, Michael. Brood.

 

        Tron smiles her brilliant smile to Storm Owl, nodding to him. "Oh, of course. And we're quite intent at continueing our illegal activities across the globe. Sad, but true. So... we'll probably see one another on the battlefield later. But, such is life. And such is the life of one dedicated to profiteering from the spoils of horrible wars that scar the land and kill FAR to many people..." Tron knows her kiss would have absolutely no effect on Storm. But, practice is key, you see. She's had very little oppurtinities to act like a real woman in her life, or even a normal eighteen year old girl... so she takes what she can get.

        "Good luck to you in the peace talks, Storm... I hope they go well. The Repliforce and the Neo Arcadians DO need to start concentrating on real enemies... like Sigma before his Virus corrupts all robotic life on this planet. And, like it or not, the Neo Arcadians are the only ones who can stand up to Sigma, and be perfectly immune to what he can do."

        And then Tron turns her full attention to Clash Bluebird, and smiles. "Its a pleasure, Clash Bluebird. I hope we meet again under equaly pleasant circumstances... and neither of us has to blow the other up any time soon."

        Tron then looks to Mr. Pliskin for a moment as she steps slowly back from Storm, the Merc, and Clash. She smiles softly. The boast from the Merc pleases her for its bravado, but from what she knows about Elpizo, he's a man to be feared.

        Then, once Tron gets out onto the grass again, she seems to break into sudden dance. Twirling out over the grass with her arms thrown wide in an almost child-like action. She closes her eyes and leans her head back... only to fall back with a soft thump onto the grass some distance from Storm Owl and the others, sighing with some contentment and giggling over her dizziness.

 

For Singularity, everyone is currently gathered in one section of the park. There's a park bench, which Storm Owl is on, and a nearby grassy hill, which Tron Bonne was previously perched on before descending to join the others. Mike is nearby, brooding and watching. Regardless, Storm Owl lets Clash have the dubious honour of speaking with Tron. The war bird reaches up with his sole hand and readjusts his ever-present beret, making sure it came away unscathed after the kiss.

        To Pliskin, Storm Owl nods, even if he doesn't seem to really believe it. "Unlikely. Fortress V's security is considerable." It occurs to him that the human was probably just joking. "However, if you are truly interested in working for the Repliforce under contract, one valuable commodity you would have is information. Specifically, information on the Neo-Arcadians."

        As Tron addresses him again, Storm Owl is forced to admit, "I am impressed with your ability to put aside the emotional ramifications of your harmful actions towards others while keeping a constant outlook on the situation around you." That is to say, it's impressive that she's able to be cheerful and relatively well-adjusted despite being a part of a family of thieves willing to break laws and steal from others for their own wellbeing. Most would have these annoying things called 'ethics' and such. He watches her as she dances up to the hill and falls down. He idly wonders if her bubbly personality is a deceptive act, or whether she really /is/ like this all the time.

 

        Clash nods his agreement at Tron's statements. "I would not be too fond of needing to blow you up, Miss Bonne." Not that he wouldn't do it, of course. Those Bonnes are colossal in their failures, and failures tend to backlash onto other people. Like Reploids. When she moves to the grass, there is no witty statement, no solemn officer speech, no admonition of a life of crimefighting coming from Clash. When Tron Bonne spins for the fences, he just looks on... in what could be passed off as simple UTTER CONFUSION.

 

Not one to be left out, Singularity decides to join the group. He glides over to Storm and Clash after Tron walks away.

 

"It depends on what you are offereing in return for such information. I do not come cheap, Storm," Pliskin admits briefly as he thinks about the offer. Then, his attention turns back to Tron, before trailing over to Mike, "Now, Michael. You don't have to brood like that. We used to work together, remember?"

 

Michael Eildath smirks. "I suppose you could say that, /Pliskin/. A little work here and there, but I've always answered to a higher calling."

 

        Tron is, for the moment, remaining quite contentely quiet on her little hillock nearby. Her eyes are closed. Her breathing is regular.

        She seems to be simply starbasking, having had her fun.

 

Storm Owl is confused by Tron's emotional state as well, but he's always confused by it so this is not out of the ordinary. "Of course," he replies to Pliskin. Storm's patience is wearing down with this freelancer. "Of course, there is also the matter of trust. By your own admission you worked for Neo-Arcadia. You still might. A 'show of good faith' would be helpful." It should be noted that Storm isn't going to do /anything/ with Pliskin without having Crescent "Master of the Illegal" Grizzly checking everything out beforehand. Storm's gaze is drawn from Pliskin to Mike. "Mr. Eildath," Storm says, nodding slightly in a greeting. He would ask if there was anything Mike needed, but the conversation between Pliskin and Mike is interesting enough to observe.

 

Clash Bluebird goes back to his contemplation of things that have happened in his lifespan before realizing that Shrike is on the scene. Looking over at the other bird fellow apart from himself and Owl, he waves. Doesn't talk, though, perhaps being unsure of Shrike's purpose up on the 'deck. Wouldn't want to interrupt deep thinking.

 

Shrike walks up waving to Clash as he does so. He nods to Storm Owl. "Sir, I take it things are going okay??"

 

"Higher callings? Oh, you mean as a cop," Pliskin says as he scoffs, "You always did turn down good money. Me? I take it where I can get it. What have you been up to?"

            Then, back to Storm Owl, "A show of good faith? My friend. The only showing I'll do, is if something is in it for me. And that is the bottom line." Pliskin folds his arms.

 

Michael Eildath shrugs. "The same. Fighting the good fight, like I've always done." He smirks. "I'm a Maverick Hunter," he says, though that's hardly uncommon knowledge. "And I stick by them."

 

Storm Owl looks away from Pliskin and Mike towards Shrike, "As far as I know, Private," Storm Owl says, unaware of anything out of the ordinary. Unless you consider being kissed by Tron Bonne to be out of the ordinary. "Currently we are just... 'enjoying the view'." That phrase sounds very fake coming out of Storm Owl's beak. "Do you have something to report?" he asks, idly curious.

        Regardless of the answer, Storm Owl nods at Pliskin. It's obvious by now that both sides are just playing each other. Pliskin isn't about to give up any information, and Storm Owl isn't going to give him any money. Both sides seem all too aware of this. Still, "One would think that the potentially lucrative contract made available by a show of good faith would make it worth it, no?"

 

        Tron continues to lay there a moment, her jaw and mouth seeming to move in silent conversation. Subvocalization rocks. Mutter the start of words... and the complex chip in her surgically inset throat mic responds by filling in the words in her voice. Took a lot to make, but she's glad to have it. The only bit of Cybernetics she allows herself, and hand made.

        As to Tron's state of mind... well, that IS debatable.

        This IS the girl who will, in thirty years, become the new Dr. Wily afterall.

        Or so the world dreads.

 

 

Pliskin smiles briefly, "But see, that would depend on me trusting you. And that is as likely as you trusting me. It is not going to happen, unless I see some cash."    

            Then back to Mike, "I guess we both fell out with the Skinners, I guess, hm?"

 

 

"No sir. Things have been pretty quiet." Singularity Shrike tilts his head as if

to hear something, and furrows his brow a bit before he regards the word playbetween his commander and Pliskin.

 

Michael Eildath is still guardedly neutral. "I suppose you could say that. But I was never really a Skinner, and I think we both knew that."

 

        A beeping in Clash's helmet lets him know that it's time to fly, and with a salute to Storm Owl, he starts out. A wave of farewell is passed at Shrike, as is a wink, and the bluebird is off.

Clash Bluebird enters the Empire Central Square.

Clash Bluebird has left.

 

"Repliforce is entirely trustworthy." Storm Owl lies. "We honour our agreements and reward our friendships." He says this in his matter-of-fact manner. The war bird is growing very interested in hearing the discussion between Mike and Pliskin. Former skinners? Storm Owl makes a note to find out what is known about Mike's background. The war bird listens in, pausing long enough to nod to Clash as a farewell.

 

Rush Raccoon is still here. He's standing Respectfully and minding the view outside. Thinking hard. About something. Mainly the unfinished conversation from last night...

 

        The Pirate Princess stands leisurely, smiling to herself.

        She looks to the group, noticing Pliskin and Mike... and the interesting tension between the two. She'll have to learn more about that later. Turning, she begins to walk away with only a little wave to Storm Owl and anyone else about.

        Tron is off to do evil things!

 

Shrike notices a bit of the tension, and almost wishes he had invested in a subspace storage device for his spear. As it stands, however, he simply stands by the Owl's side and waits.

 

Rush Raccoon notices that Commander Owl is now no longer preoccupied! Alright, nows his chance. He steps in and clears his throats. "Greetings, Commander. I hope everything is going well for you tonight?..."

 

Storm Owl lets Pliskin and Mike wander off to worry about their own shady histories together. Those Hunters, Storm Owl muses to himself, are certainly a dangerous lot, many with questionable histories. Ah, speaking of Hunters, "Yes, Corporal. I was just speaking with Ms. Bonne, Mr. Eildath, and an unaffiliated mercenary." Storm shakes his head. "Eurasia draws interest from all corners, it seems. What can I do for you, Corporal?" he asks. Storm Owl sets his datapad down on the park bench, recognizing that he's not going to be able to work on it again anytime soon.

 

Rush Raccoon nods. "Well..it is Neutral ground Sir.... " he notes Red Badged Mavericks off in the distance. Heh. Anyways he turns to Owl. "Well..I was hoping we could continue our discussion from last night...."

 

Too bad we never get any well adjusted individuals hanging out on neutral ground. Frowning, Storm Owl nods, "Very well, Corporal. You were saying that you wished to subdue your emotions in favour of objectivity?" He asks. The war bird believes that it's very unlikely that Rush is going to be able to handle something like this. Either you have the self control or you don't. But perhaps it can help the Raccoon a little bit.

 

Rush Raccoon nods. "Yes Sir..." after all. He does'nt WANT to be a Wild and crazy hunter. No No No! "Well..you had asked me last night "What Kind of Soilder" I was during my previous time in Repliforce. So, lets start from there."

            "I was a Member of a Small Squad. Conisted of about 7 members. We were caught off guard because we were fighting our own Forces. We tried to retreat. This was the start of the Maverick attacks..." he sighs. "Well, Only I apprently survived."

            "A Few years later, I was stationed at an Outpost. We were literary Wiped out. I had the choice to stop it, and destroy the attacking Mavericks, but." he sighs. "It was my old Squad..... they were Mavericks. I could'nt bring myself to stop them soon enough. I couldn't even bring myself to powerup my systems......I..choked. I never did before. I was considered K.I.A that day along with everyone else at the Outpost. At the time still not a lot was known about the Maverick Virus. No one wanted to even go close to that Outpost. It's where I was picked up by the Hunters....." he nods a bit.

 

At this point, the Shrike looks a little uncomfortable. This really is not his business. Besides, a reploid's past is his business, right? "Um, gentlemen? I'm not sure I should be intruding on this. Would you like me to cut out?"

 

Rush Raccoon looks to Shrike. "If you want to stay and listen...you may I suppose."

 

Shrike looks over at Storm Owl. "Sir?"

 

Storm Owl clasps his hands together, resting them on his round belly as he continues to sit on the park bench. He listens to Rush's story about his seven man team that was wiped out, save for Rush himself. He nods in an unsurprised, if not understanding manner as he explains about how he was unable to fight his former team-mates, now mavericks, several years later. Storm Owl thinks back to the inane bureaucracy in those times. Yes, a soldier would likely be labelled as KIA after that, and rejoining the Repliforce would have been quite a bit of red tape. Wait a minute... insane bureaucracy... back when Chief "Bureaucracy From Hell" R was still with the Repliforce... COINCIDENCE?! I. Think. Not.

        "I see," he replies to Rush, "Obviously the failure to destroy your team-mates was a considerable error. One that I imagine you would not make again should the same circumstances arise." Storm Owl pauses here and returns the glance from Shrike, "I do not mind your presence," he answers. To Rush, he adds, "Allow me to tell you of an incident approximately fourteen years, six months, two weeks, one day, thirteen hours, five minutes and twenty-four seconds ago."

 

Rush Raccoon nods. "Alright...." he states. Now...The thing is..Rush has tried this mission over. On the HoloRoom. He can do it EVERYTIME perfectly....when he replaces his "Friends" with generic Mavericks. But even on the Holodeck... he gets killed. Everytime. This is why he's seeking Commanders Help. BUT anyways. He does'nt say this outloud. That'd be rude. It's Owl's Turn.

 

 Shrike shrugs, and glances at his external watch. "Actually, gentlemen, I really oughta be going. I told General that I'd help keep things frosty in Detroit." Not totally untrue. He said he would, and it provides a valid reason to leave. "So I'll be getting to that." He nods a farewell as he makes to leave..."Commander, Rush..."

 

Storm Owl nods to Shrike, "You're dismissed then, Corporal." he replies.

Storm Owl then gets ready to tell the story.

 

Singularity Shrike enters the Empire Central Square.

Singularity Shrike has left.

 

Storm Owl taps his chin as he thinks back. Yes, he remembers it as if it were a flashback...

        Fifteen and a half years ago, aboard the greatest, noblest, and famous air ship in history: The Fortress. The majestic symbol of liberty is on its way to another battle in Repliforce's war with the Robot Master forces. The scars on the ship serving only as medals of victories. "We were en route to one of the major Robot Master strongholds," Storm Owl tells Rush. "The ship had seen several battles previously, but morale was high and all primary systems were completely functional. Our plan was that of a coordinated assault with a task force consisting of ground forces."

        We can almost imagine the bridge, shiny, new, and full of Repliforce Officers proud to be doing their duty in the defence of humanity. "We were to take care of the air support. Now, this enemy base had been a virtually impenetrable stronghold, and its artillery embankments were unmatched at the time. Our armies could not reach its walls without being subjected to a withering bombardment of enemy fire. Worse, many innocents were held within the stronghold's walls, ruling out the option of levelling the place. Our task was to gain the aerial superiority and then begin bombing the stronghold, softening them up so our ground forces would have a chance to breach the stronghold's outer walls and penetrate its defences." Where's Owl going with this? Storm pauses here, checking to see if Rush has any questions so far.

 

Rush Raccoon just listens. He knows about the Fortress series of Air Fortresses. He had wished to be stationed on, but sadly, never passed a Vehicle Flight test at the time to be a Pilot. He nods his head. He has no questions.

 

"Our ground forces," One can just picture rows upon rows of the pudgy Reploids that are no longer in service, combined with the elite forces of the day. Massive weapons of war are ranked together on a slow but steady march towards the enemy stronghold. "Our ground forces," Storm repeats, "Were split up into two forces. They were to attack from the north and from the west, where the terrain favoured their advance." One can mentally see the huge rocky mountains to the east, and the marshy river to the south, making for poor choices to advance from. "Given that our route of approach had to be contained to two areas, the Robot Masters would know where our ground forces were making their attack. This made their artillery all the more effective, and made our job that much more important."

        We can once again see the Fortress, escorted by a plethora of cruiser airships, individual Repliforce aerials, and various Ride Armours. "Our approach from the air was to be from the northeast. The poor terrain would not hinder us, and perhaps we would be able to take advantage of their defences being trained on the west and north." Again on the bridge. The Storms are there in their CO and XO positions. "Our approach was made smoothly - too smoothly, as I recall our tactical gunner at the time remarking." That tactical gunner went Maverick six years ago, as Storm recalls. Went Maverick and was killed two months later. Hmph.

        Regardless, the owl continues, "Our approach was made. Just before we reached sensor range of the stronghold, however, a potential disaster struck."

            Storm Owl pauses once again to see if there are any questions.

 

Rush Raccoon nods a bit. Two Storms?....WAIT thats right. Storm Eagle was the old Fortress Commander. Though that was just a Bit before his time...no seriously. If he had been made a year or two earlier, he might had just had a chance to be in the ORIGNAL Robot Wars fighting the Masters. "Ah...thats right, Storm Eagle was in your postion orignally, Sir...Correct?"

 

Storm Owl nods, "Yes. Storm Eagle was Commander of the Fortress. I was his Executive Officer. As to our disaster, the Fortress received word from the 14th Division - the ground task force that was to approach from the north. They had been ambushed by a full Robot Master contingent. Their drones numbered in the tens of thousands, and whoever the Robot Master that was in charge of that stronghold, he was a cunning one, and had managed to catch our forces unaware and unprepared. Using the high ground, they began to slaughter the troops of the 14th."

        Flashback to the bridge. Reports are coming in from all over about the attack on the 14th Division. Bridge crews are reporting the sporadic and all-too-grim announcements regarding the army's status. It's amazing how chaos from so far away could be affecting the peaceful and currently not-in-combat Fortress crew. "We received dozens of distress calls, including one from the Commander in charge of the 14th Division, desperately calling for assistance, and asking that we call off the attack on the stronghold so we could reposition our forces and divert course to assist the 14th Division."

        Cut to images of the Robot Masters slaughtering the ground forces. Many Repliforcers are bravely fighting back, but others are being cut down as they ran. "Although the Commander of the 14th Division had no authority to order us to change course and cancel the intricate plans of our attack on the Robot Master stronghold, it was assumed by all that this is what we would do." Storm pauses again for Rush's benefit.

 

Rush Raccoon nods and listens. He's taking this all in, but he has no questions this time.

 

Storm Owl continues onward. A direct audio feed of the Commander of the 14th Division manages to reach, and we can hear him asking for any reinforcements before the Robot Masters completely overwhelm them. Perhaps they could call off the attack for now, deal with this ambushing force, regroup, and attack the stronghold in a few months when their forces have been repaired and replenished.

        "Our crew was already taking action to change course and save the 14th. The other ground task force - the 16th - was also moving to intercept and aid our companions against the Robot Masters. However before the Fortress and our escorts could, Commander Eagle and I ordered them to stop. I shall never forget the decision that we reached. Do you know what it was, Corporal?"

 

Rush Raccoon thinks really hard about this... this has been a very graphic story. "Did you help them?.." he asks. Kinda confused now. Why was it an important decision...

 

"We allowed the 16th Division to go to the rescue of the 14th, and we proceeded on course to the Robot Master Stronghold, where we bombed and laid waste to the entire installation, destroying anything inside and annihilating any Robot Master hold on the area." Storm Owl pauses. "Do you recall when I said that many innocents were held within the stronghold's walls, ruling out the option of levelling the place?" It's a rhetorical question, and Storm Owl doesn't wait for the answer.

        "This is your first lesson, Corporal. The bigger picture outweighs ethics and morality. In the end, all of those inside the stronghold were killed, innocent or otherwise, and the 14th Division was slaughtered to a man. But the objective was completed, and the Robot Master ambushing force was destroyed by the 16th Division. The death toll was massive. Many questioned the decision that Storm Eagle and I reached, citing it as cold and unfeeling. However we determined that the benefits of destroying the stronghold and the ambushing force outweighed the loss of those captured in the stronghold and the lives of the 14th Division. And it was. It was one of the turning points that led to our victory over the Robot Masters, and in the end likely saved more lives than it lost. In the bigger picture."

        Back to Eurasia, underneath the clear protective ceiling, grassy park, and the annoying tweeting of a nearby bird. "Do you understand, Corporal?"

 

Rush Raccoon knows he really wants to shoot that bird right now.... he looks back to Storm Owl after sneering at said Bird. he listens and erfs as his eyes kinda narrow as he goes on about how all the innocents were killed. Innocents killed. He can almost here Sabre. Sabre was ALL about saving the innocents. but he also remebers Gun Liger and Crush Bison... and how'd they wanted more to get an objective done rather than deal with "innocents". In fact.. Rush might had been DEAD now if it wasn't for Gun and Bison who went straight at attackers from thier own FACTION. Unlike the rest who tried to talk sense.... In a way. Rush can sorta grasp it. But then again...he was one of the ones trying to talk "Sense" Back then. Due to time saving. He explains this in a creative way. "I... do to an extent commander. Two of my Squadmates, were like that. but my Commander always discplined them for that. If I was in your postion, however, at the time...I could..imagine I would'nt had made such a decision. " he'll remember to pull up a Hologram of this mission Later....or a similar one and try it himself in a similar postion.... "I probably would had called off the attack....." he states.

 

While Rush mulls over the decision that was made fifteen years ago, six months, etc, Storm Owl sits dispassionately, resting his Cyclone Cannon and hand on his gut, calmly letting Rush absorb the story. Storm nods, "It was a very unpopular decision at the time. Most would have done as you would have. Had we been able - and thus required - to contact HQ at the time, I imagine that the decision we made would have been swiftly overruled, and history would have unfolded differently."

        Flashback to the field where the 14th Division was slaughtered while fighting against impossible odds. Both Reploids and Robot Master drones litter the landscape. "We would have called off the attack, saved the 14th Division, and been forced to regroup. It would have been months before we were ready to launch another attack. Months where Wily's control in the area would have continued and built up in strength."

        "Would we have been able to eventually save those that were captured? Would we have been able to take the stronghold on a second attempt? Would our victory have still occurred? Would our morale have been so much better without the demise of the 14th that history would have been altered? Or would the Masters have gained enough strength to defeat us? Would they have killed or otherwise used the hostages?"

        Back to the park again. "To this very day I cannot say for sure, but at the time we looked at it objectively, put aside emotional feelings, and felt that the advantage of destroying the stronghold outweighed the loss of the 14th Division and those captured in the stronghold."

 

Rush Raccoon nods a bit at this....and hrms.... "So...the needs of the Many... outweigh the few?.." he asks as he takes this in. He's asking more quizzacly, as he knows the answer. it's like he's more stating it to himself. He repeats that phrase a few times in his head. "The needs of the Many Outweigh the few...".

            "So...it was more better in the long run to halt the Robot Masters then rather than...try again later?"

 

Storm Owl leans back against the park bench. "I suppose that is one way to phrase it." Cough. Storm Owl sees that his point has been achieved. "I do believe it was the correct decision. Postphoning the attack later would have given Dr. Wily the advantage. Now not everyone agreed with us - not with the decision to sacrifice the few to save the many, but rather accusing us of simply making the wrong choice. 'We could have saved the 14th, those inside, and still cleansed Wily from the region'," Storm Owl quotes. "Were their arguments motivated by objectivity or were they merely saying what their emotions told them to say?" Storm Owl shrugs. He knows what he thinks, of course.

        "And of course, that was not the end of it. We received many passionate pleas, insults, and accusations. I recall one in particular. A human female. Mother of two sons. Both were guardsmen in the United Nations. Both were among the captured in the Robot Master stronghold. Both were annihilated when we made our decision. I can assure you that my attempts to reason with her logically were quite in vain." Storm stops here.

Rush Raccoon nods a bit....."I think...I understand...." he breathes deep. "Sir, if it is not too much trouble.... I would like to run some scenarios with your guidance in the training room." he sighs. "The fact is..... even in the Holoroom. I can't make the right decision reliving the Outpost battle, or a few number of computer generated simulations involving such choices..... When I replace the groups with things that don't matter to me, I can do the mission just fine... but..put my Squad Back in there against me..and I just. Choke up..... I was choke up. I don't want to. I just want to be able to do my job, and do it well this time."

 

Rush sighs again. "This..is my second chance. Sir. I never..ever thought I'd be back in Repliforce. When I walked back onto the Fortress about that month ago, it was ... surreal. I felt like I'd just walked into the main base corrdior after I was activated for my first time. I made a promise to myself that I'd not make the same mistakes. I want to be able to do what needs to be done this time."

 

Storm Owl watches as Rush seems to get the idea of this part: It's not easy being emotionless. You have to deal with a lot of flack over it. Storm considers telling this story to Red sometime. He might get some benefit out of it. "Note that I am no psychologist, Corporal, and I do not know the best way to 'confront one's emotional history'." He shrugs slightly. "I suppose it comes naturally to me. Major Iris might be best for this."

        Waiting and listening as Rush talks about rejoining the Repliforce, Storm Owl replies, "From what I have seen, Corporal, you have done a satisfactory job thus far with your return." He doesn't elaborate since Rush can just reread his review if he wants. The first step in correcting any errors is recognizing and identifying them. You appear to have done that."

 

Rush Raccoon hrms..and nods. "Iris then? Alright then Sir...I will contact Iris on this matter in the coming days...." he states as he nods. "Yes Sir, I have been trying my best to my abilites, and trying to learn more than I did the first time around." Evident, as he has his Ride Armor Certification hanging in his room next to his Orignal Repliforce Enlistment sheet and the newer one. He gets up. "I Thank you for your time and insight Commander. I won't bother you again with it... but this helped me a lot. I think I will go arrange a meeting with Iris now for a later date." he nods. "is this fine with you, Commander?"

 

Storm Owl nods. He's mildly impressed with himself with how his story managed to have the impact he was hoping for. "You are welcome, Corporal. I hope it was informative and beneficial to you. You may 'bother' me with it again should you require it." Storm Owl reaches for his datapad, set aside way at the beginning of this scene, and punches in several new commands. "It is fine with me, Corporal. You are dismissed."

 

Rush Raccoon nods, Salutes and quickly takes off the Elevator. Only because well. He's Rush Raccoon. He's always rushing! *zooooom!*