Coffeeshop Crossroad

[Roose Hurro]

Shit, Meat Fan...



Peet had been hoping to finish his breakfast before shit hit the fan... yes, being Nism, his sensory perceptions had indicated Baylen would indeed be receiving a "visitor". He'd hoped said visitor might be delayed, but no. What with Baylen... what with 'Ella and Celtic and Flint and... well, especially with Flint making things difficult, Peet had no choice but to...

"No fighting! If fighting, go out!" Her narrowed gaze pinned the Jiinian's hostility to the back of his skull. And to add to her gesture towards the door, she put her foot up on the counter. Now, Trepper's kind not only have the ability to stand behind counters on one leg with the other held at counter height, but... their feet look heavy and sharp-clawed enough to take the head off an elephant. With one kick.

Still, Peet really had no choice but to pause his breakfast, give Baylen a reassuring tail-pat to the ankle, then rise up from his stool, toeclaws tapped to floor as he stood. Hands behind back, he covered the short distance quite rapidly. Not intimidated by the Jiinian's size or mass, though his own slender form stood barely up to shoulder with this brute. Who claimed the Doomra as his own. So, poker or no poker, all Peet wanted was to avoid having to dodge chunks of meat... both guilty and innocent. If he had to insert himself between Trepper... between Flint and Jiinian, so be it. Besides, he'd left backpack and pen at his "old" stool and counter-space, so, good time to snag backpack with tail and pen with clawed hand, before he crossed the Jiinian's path, slipped pen into pocket, and put both hands on the creature's chest...

... "Before you do something we'll all regret... sit down and have a cup of coffee. Maybe breakfast, too?" Grin... "It's my treat." Mane and body fur ruffled to full effect, shroudruff flared wide, short as it was. Forehead badge seemed to glimmer in the ambient light, perhaps to catch and reflect a slight bit of sun coming through a window. In either case, if this Jiinian knew anything about Nism, he'd know.......

Peet's hands felt like leather-wrapped steel. Perhaps 'Ella had noted this when she shook his hand.......

 

[Alis_Audāx]

Ella was involved in her conversation with Celtic, she must have been tired or perhaps she would rather be involved in the pleasant conversation than to pay attention to surroundings. She felt no energy coming from the individual entering the coffee shop. No sign or little itch, that is the body's way of warning of something threatening. If it wasn't for Celtic's words being cut off by the newcomers loud words, she probably would have stayed in the pleasant bubble.

Ella's head quickly turned around, trying to locate the voice. "Whoa, a Jiinian." she whispered under her breath.

She had only seen 2 of these in her life time, the first time it was from a far distance. The situation had nothing to do with her, yet the energy it gave off was intimidating. And now here is one close enough that a few steps would put her in touching distance. This made her very uneasy, Ella swiveled around on her stool. She didn't want to be directly facing the creature, but she didn't want her legs to be trapped against the counter.

Ella, watched as Peet took his step forward towards the Jiinian. "Don't tou...", she whispered with urgency.

Her hand reached out as if to say stop. However, it was to late. Peet had placed his hands on the Jiinian. As far as she knew, these creatures didn't like to be touched. But maybe this time they will be lucky and this one would be friendly...probably not. Her eyes widen slightly and flicked between the Jiinian and Peet.

"Aaaa, yes!. This place is very good at specializing meals too.", her business lady mask quickly slipped into place. A pleasant and empty smile replaced the happy one from earlier. She would rather give no signs of emotions than to show weakness.

 

[Crono]

"Ehh, perhaps you misunderstood me. One, not human." Flint quickly lost steam, starting with a mistake never ended well. His posture slouched as he looked up at the massive Jiinian. Man they were plenty scarier when you didn't have a blaster rifle in your hands. He indicated his round and pointed ears, which twitched in reply. "Two I was talking about the little shit that had it. You see he came in here a hour or two ago, stared at that thing like a moron for five minutes, then pulled out a gun and stole my car! Fucker went that way if your planning on bashing his head in." He pointed out the window down the road, just before Trepper and Peet took action.

Personally Flint would prefer the massive, muscly behemoth that could probably snap a man's neck with his toes to leave as soon as possible. He then looked back at Trepper and saw that she could probably split a man's neck with her toes. Thank Christ he hadn't complained about the smoking. He did not move, waiting for the Jiinain's response, ready to move to his seat and duck at the same time.

Celtic refused to turn, not like it would have helped. His nose was plagued with the horrid body odor of he Jiinain. Fish, uncooked meat, some horrible musty smell, and- what was that? A hint of steel, a touch of fresh blood, and... He recalled a time Flint and him went to a drug shop, not for either of them of corse but to deliver some of the vile concoctions for money. He recalled the sent of each horrible ruiner of lives, now recalling that of injection steroids. He whispered over to Ella, "is he really, really muscular?"

 

[Alis_Audāx]

Ella continued to smile up at the Jiinian. She could hear Flint speak to the creature. However, she didn't dare turn to look away. She watched, trying to read the creature she wanted to know which action she herself should make. It seemed that everyone at this point were trying to convince the Jiinian that the human wasn't something to be concerned about.

This slightly upset her. It wasn't that they were attempting to assist the human. Rather it was the lack of support the huddled male human provided for the others here. True, he was just a human but still the aura of fear emitted by him drew a click sound from her. Yet, she still did not move her gaze. She would not out the human, but that pendent has definitely caught her curiosity.

Upon hearing Celtic she slightly leaned over towards him. "Very much, like a bull. A very tall, large bull.", she said.

"He has a strong smell too. Can you do the same thing you did on me, to him?", she whispered. Maybe, just maybe this will help bring some things to light. A weakness or information that will help.

 

[Blox]

Baylen turned in his chair and finally looked back towards the Jiinian, making eye contact for but a moment before resting his eyes on Peet. The subtle but felt reassurance given to Peet made him feel just a bit better but he still had no idea how much Flint would run his mouth off.

The Jiinian's heavy eyes moved to Tepper as she shouted sharply across the room to them, foot slamming effortlessly on the counter as she seemed to stake her claim. He knew of her species and they were strong fighters. the Jiinian was only slightly phased by her command to leave as he was focused on his mission at hand. Ignoring Tepper's warning, but loosening his thick fists just slightly, he turned to Peet. When Peet placed his hands on the Jiinian's chest the beasts skin mottled and moved in reaction, a heavy snarl pulling back his lips to reveal a jagged array of far too many teeth within its jaws. The Jiinian had heard of Nisms but hadn't personally met them. From what he did know he knew their look was quite deceiving. His eyes moved to rest on the glowing badge at Peet's forehead, a unique confirmation of the species. Not wanting to get personally involved with Peet, the Jiinian shoved Peet's hands down and off of his chest.

The Jiinian's eyes were turned from Peet back to Flint before he could give a response to the invitation for breakfast. He listened as Flint abrasively explained "what he knew" in more detail, revealing the human had already left. The staring of the Doomra was an accurate description. The precious pendant was full of transferable power, something the owner bestowed with could obtain when wearing. Unfortunately for some the power is too great and when transferring ownership it has been known to leave severe damage and sometimes death. Little is known of the Doomra as it has only been with the Jiinian species for a short while now, a creation made a few generations back to enhance the species. The forced evolution has not come without consequences.

The Jiinian turned to Ella as she chimed in after Peet to stay for food. Something about their actions put him on edge. He was mulling over what Flint said in his head and it didn't quite sound truthful. Humans were like the rats of the universe to many other beings, still bountiful and yet reletively useless, always causing trouble. If Flint wasn't human it was difficult to believe a human was able to use but a gun to steal a car and have a clean getaway. Furthermore if the other occupants were in the cafe at the same time as the human, how could one human out wit them all? The Jiinian mulled his thoughts over quickly before turning to answer Peet and Ella with a growl "I will not stay to eat. I have a task to complete." The Jiinian turned back to Flint. He didn't seem to have a reason to lie to him but the story still didn't seem complete. He looked to the faceless titan who had been still and quiet, the druid who seemed slightly familiar, then rested his eyes on Baylen.

Baylen had been trying to keep his eyes on any occupant besides the Jiinian, following Peet, Flint, Ella, then back to Peet. But he felt the Jiinian's eyes on him and turned to look at him, eyebrows lifting despite trying to act normal. The Jiinian stepped forward, ignoring the other patrons as if they didn't exist anymore, eyes glued to Baylen. He lumbered forward, careful to keep himself controlled so as not to alert Tepper in to the need to take action. "And you?" The Jiinian glared down at Baylen, nostrils flaring as he inhaled his scent. Baylen shifted uncomfortably in his seat. His heart was pounding and his body was pulsating with adrenaline, ready to leap from his seat. And yet the Jiinian's stare felt like it was magically pinning him down, paralyzing him. "A human?" The Jiinian continued, not waiting for Baylen's response. "A different human?" The Jiinian leaned down towards Baylen, arms still kept to himself but closing in on the personal space between them. Baylen shrunk back on his stool in reaction but kept his gaze. A bead of sweat formed at his temple and threatened to slide down his hairline.

Baylen was normally good with bravado but his life at stake seemed to strike all bravery from him. His flight or fight instincts were kicking in and right now his mind was screaming for him to RUN!

Baylen wasn't sure if he had a better chance staying still and trying to play the role of the different human but he knew he was giving off the scent of fear or guilt and most species were adapted to sense such emotions through either smell or vibration. Baylen didn't think he would have much longer until the Jiinian either figured it out or made a brash decision. Tepper's warning would only hold him off for so long.

Abruptly Baylen jumped to the side and away from his stool, grasping the counter top as he lurched himself over and away from the Jiinian. The Jiinians hands glowed a bright light blue, sparks of energy flickering between his thick fingertips. With an enraged and deafening roar that rattled the windows of the cafe, the Jiinian reacted by lunging forward, clasping his hands around one of Baylen's ankle. Baylen arched his back and shook violently mid air, mouth open in a silent scream as a wave of the shocking energy rattled through his body. With a jerk of his massive arm he pulled Baylen back easily and threw him across the floor.

Baylen slammed to the ground with a grunt of pain, sliding a few feet to rest just inches from the door, his body shaking in the aftermath of the energy that was poured in to him. The Jiinian swung his arms out on either side of him. If anyone was in his path and didn't move out of the way in time his hands would connect with a brute force and an equally intense shock of energy, enough to throw most species off of their feet and immobilized for a moment. The Jiinian didn't waste a moment, lumbering forward towards Baylen, hands crushing the chairs he passed in to splinters along the way.

Baylen tried to pull himself up but failed, his body weak and slightly paralyzed, gasping for the breath that was knocked out of him. His hands trembled from the resounding energy, barely even able to hold his torso up as he watched the Jiinian pound towards him.

 

[Roose Hurro]

Kicking Butt...



Things went downhill very quickly. Peet barely had time for a deep and profound sigh... Trepper, a screech, as furnishings were broken. Yes, the human was in what humanity referred to as "Deep shit." In fact, quite a few species referred to this particular bodily function in such situations. Peet still spent a moment after his sigh to rub hands over muzzle, ears down and back. He didn't like fighting. But then, he didn't like watching someone get their butt kicked, either. Given the circumstances, brave as she was, Trepper still had her own moment of hesitation, not stupid enough to jump in when such a being as this Jiinian threw energy with his punches. It would do her no good to get herself killed, or even seriously injured in the defense of someone she didn't know... someone who may have done something illegal enough to cause someone else to do something ill.......

....... well, to cut things short, she got busy contacting the police.

Peet? Well, this whole situation had to end. He had breakfast to finish. Other things to do. Though it looked very likely he'd have to change his plans for the day. Perhaps for some time to come, if things got really ugly. So, time to act, then...

... "I really, really think you need that coffee......."

With that, he snagged his mug. And threw it at the back of the Jiinian's head. Now, Nism have quite a "pitching" arm, so that mug was moving very fast. Not fast enough to penetrate an exposed Jiinian skull, just fast enough to make a very loud "Clonk!" when it connected. Perhaps enough to render this particular Jiinian unconscious. Definitely enough to annoy! At the very least. And based on that last possible outcome, Peet set up for his next move..
.
... which involved him rapidly removing his cargo shorts, ready to leap and wrap said shorts around Jiinian face. Beyond that move, all would depend on........

....... heh. Further distraction, indeed.


----------------------------------------------------

 

[Crono]

Celtic struggled slightly. "I can assume he's addicted to injection steroids. I don't think that will hel-" He was listening to the resounding footsteps of the Jiinian for a while now, when suddenly the sound of something hitting a wall caused his branches to twitch violently, actually scratching Ella's shoulder. "Ah! Oh- sorry!" He stated in a panicked tone.

Flint hadn't been able to find a good reason to hate the human yet, but thanks to him looking up that problem was over. Why? What could possibly posses that idiot to peer at a musclebound magic child of Satan looking his for head? Great, now the Jiinain was looking to thunderclap him. Peet had the right idea, trying to knock out or at least stun the behemoth.

Flint made a few carful calculations as his only hand turned a dark grey. Sickles had another distinguishing trait aside from calculator-like brains and pointed ears, they could turn their appendages into solid, razor sharp blades. This ability required a large amount of focus and energy but made up for their frail skeletons as well as led to the species's planetary dominance. The former was of course why Flint was shaping his attack to allow him to slice the Jiinain's throat while leaping over his arm. Once the curved blade that replaced his hand gained solidity Flint dashed forward, jumping over the Jiinain's swinging arm and slashing at its neck. If everything went to plan, the creature would be dealt a normally deadly blow and Flint would land right by his seat.

 

[Alis_Audāx]

Ella's gaze was taken off the Jiianian when Celtic's branches scratched her. She jerked back for a moment her hand quickly reaching up to cover her shoulder. His branches were able to cut through the material of her dress suit. Ella could feel moister on her finger tips. The scratch wasn't deep, yet it was enough to draw blood.

"It's fine, just....", Ella gasped as the Jiianian became violent.

"Shit.", she swore. She had a feeling this would happen.

As Flint made his move, Ella grabbed Celtics forearm and pulled the boy with her across the shop. She was not willing to put herself or this boy in the way of the fight. It wasn't that she didn't know how to defend herself, but at the moment she was still drained from the night before. There was also the little factor that Merfolk abilities are not strong with little water around. Sure there was her glass of water, but that would do little to nothing against the behemoth. This why Merfolk who do venture to work on land and away from water tend to learn some form of defense. It was also a requirement from the head of her company, yet she left her tool of choice back at the office.

 

[Blox]

Baylen watched with his mouth slightly open, trying to catch his breath as his body refused to give him any strength to get up and leave. He noticed Trepper slip away in the back and it only made him feel worse, as it seems no one wanted to take on the beast on his behalf. The Jiinian made eye contact with him and began charging his way with fierce determination and rage; it was quite frightening. The Jiinian he played with last night was so very different. Yes, the species were on the taller side and yes, this one in particular was a bigger than normal brute. But the true muscle mass on this Jiinian seemed abnormal. It was a horrible combination with the Jiinian's naturally thick skeletal structure. If the Jiinian wasn't going to kill Baylen he would surely be taken to the black market slave trade or perhaps auctioned off as bate meat for some of the illegal under ground fights that go on. His mind raced with the terrifying possibilities as he began to succumb to his impending fate.

Then....THWACK! A heavy resounding sound echoed through the stunned coffee shop as Peet's coffee mug hit the back of the Jiinian's thick skull. The mug rebounded to the side and smashed on the floor below, scattering in to several ceramic pieces. The Jiinian froze mid step, then slowly turned around to look down at who had thrown the cup, eyes locking on Peet and narrowing. A bit of yellow ooze slid down from the back side of his head, trickling down the along the side of his neck. The mug had broken his skin but apparently the wound wasn't enough to cause much disturbance to him besides an annoyance. The Jiinian pulled back his thick lips and a low growl escaped the back of his throat, a vein popping on the side of his neck began to throb even harder as if it had a life of it's own.

Although strong, the Jiinian wasn't quick. It's heavy unnatural muscles on it's thick frame left him with an unimpressive amount of agility. Peet was easily able to swing his freed shorts over the Jiinian's face, stealing his vision. The Jiinian reached out in response with a deafening type of roar of frustration, thick hands reaching for Peet's body to get him in to his crushing and energy jolting grip.

If the Jiinian made contact with Peet it wouldn't be held for long as the sickle was making his move at about the same time. Unaware of his approach, the Jiinian took the full force of Flint's attack to his large neck. The sickle's blade appendage sliced deep in and across the side of the Jiinian's neck, the skin breaking open and releasing a spew of yellow blood that had been circulating within. Although swift and sharp the cut was not enough to take his head off completely. The Jiinian brought his hands up with a different roar, more of a garbled screech, the pain evident in his cry, as he clasped his thick hands over his neck. His skin had split open, revealing the muscles and tendons inside. The Jiinian desperately grasped at his broken flesh, trying to press the skin back together and block more of his blood from pooling out. His attempts, while desperate and urgent, were not enough to salvage the damage done by the sickle. The Jiinian dropped to his knees with a heavy THUD, hands still clutched around his neck, his blood continuing to spill through his thick fingers, draining him of his energy at a fascinating rate.

Baylen watched with wide eyes as he saw both Peet and the sickle bring down the massive Jiinian. He caught sight of Ella moving the boy away, glad neither of them would be getting hurt in this situation. He could feel his body regaining control again, the energy left behind from the Jiinian now dissipated. He carefully, and a bit shakily, brought himself up to his feet. His eyes remained on the behemoth as he struggled to contain his wound, his breath escaping parted lips with a staggered struggle one could easily recognize as...death approaching.

Gasps for breath and from pain turned to gasps for air. A choking sound began to string from the back of the Jiinian's throat and with a loud cough and a wet wheeze his blood began to spew from the back of his throat. Hands still wrapped around his own neck, the Jiinian fell forward and hit the ground hard, arms falling limp at his sides. His body trembled for a moment and the flesh torn by the sickle broke free, letting out the remaining life the Jiinian had been trying to cling to, leaving his massive purple skull to rest in a puddle of his own thick blood. The shorts had fallen off and exposed his face. His eyes remained open, his mouth was parted, but his body was no longer moving and the stench of his hot breath could no longer be found.

Baylen had his back pressed against the wall of the coffee shop. He had not expected this outcome at all. He blinked a few times, chest rising and falling a bit heavily, before tearing his gaze from the Jiinian to look back between Flint and Peet. He didn't know what to say as thanking them in the wake of the creatures death didn't seem appropriate; he found this ironic as he would have been killed or worse if they hadn't intervened. Instead he moved his eyes back towards Ella and Celtic to see if they were ok.

 

[Roose Hurro]

What Happened Next...



Peet's next move did indeed require the use of his shorts. Unfortunately, the sickle joined in the fight, and did something... unfortunate. Something that would indeed result in no more breakfast, his day's plans ruined, and a whole host of legal issues, once the cops arrived. Oh, yes... all his intentions to defuse and distract, to take down or otherwise calm the situation in a non-lethal fashion, all blown to Hell because someone couldn't keep his blades in his hands! Blade. Hand. Ohhhhh...*! Heartbeat and breathrate up, Jiinian's grip avoided, for those few moments it took for his opponent to fall down dead... Peet, landed on all fours, could only stare in a state of disbelief. No, he wasn't naive. He just wasn't expecting someone else, in such a public place, to so suddenly and messily slit someone's throat. The shock left him frozen, teeth gritted, fur up all over, ears way back and down. No. Not what one would call a "happy camper" over how this had ended.

"You didn't need to kill him!" Peet looked intently towards the dead Jiinian and the bloody mess all over the floor. And all over his shorts. Well. Vest off and tossed over his former stool... him, now totally in his birthday suit, now on twos... he knew he had little time to act, to do something to fix this. If he could. Nism or not, a bandaid just wouldn't do. He didn't know if he could.......

....... yes, being Nism, he had access to technology far, far in advance of most beings in the universe. But this technology required some skill and knowledge from its "operator" in order to function optimally. Because Omni Bits took their instructions... their "programing"... from the individual that handled them. And while Peet had an Omni Bit handled by his mother, trained in exobiology and related knowledge, he only had basic first aid skills. Skills he wasn't sure were up to fixing someone in this Jiinian's condition.

Still, he had to try.

So he ignored the blood and smell. Flipped the dead Jiinian over onto his back. Reached up and touched a spot under his left ear... withdrew his mother's Omni Bit out of his own flesh, a glowing marble he rapidly traced patterns upon... Fweep!... before said marble, having made said sound, turned "fuzzy" and active and.......

....... Peet chose a spot near the bloody slit, traced more patterns, then inserted the Omni Bit just so, fingers crossed as he turned an uncharacteristic glare towards the sickle. And as the Jiinian's thick yellow blood started to evaporate, just a hint of what the Omni Bit was doing. But no promise it would successfully finish. Yet...

 

[Alis_Audāx]

Ella didn't make a sound, but her heart was thumping so loudly in her chest she was almost sure the sound filled the room. Despite this, her face gave off no expression. She simply stared, making sure she didn't have to grab the boy and make another move. However, when the Jiinian began to spew yellow blood as it sunk into death's embrace. Her nose wrinkled, her face finally expressed a ugh look at the smell.

She quickly stood up as she saw Peet's move to revive the Jiinian. "Damn it." Ella grabbed Celtic and carefully aimed him towards the direction that would put him behind the counter. "Be careful." she whispered to the boy, before returning to the others.

Ella hopped over some of the spilled blood, she landed softly with only a tiny tap from her heels. She locked eyes with the human, her green sea foam eyes giving off an intimidating "I am not happy" look.

"You better come up with a plan, human. That little pendant of yours has caused a lot of trouble here. I don't care if you stole it or won it, but Peet here.", she pointed back at Peet without looking.

"Is trying bring back your little friend. Plus, as you can see we have drawn some attention from outside the shop.", she then pointed at the shop window. Some individuals were staring in, only to quickly take off running out of fear of what they saw through the glass.

She draped her hair to cover half her face, trying to block it from view of those passing back and taking notice of the scene. This is why she haven't left the shop yet. Her kind stood out, and who wouldn't notice a Merfolk leaving a shop that was now a crime scene.

"1. A dead Jiinian, 2. A pendent of value, and 3. Blood everywhere. This day is not looking good for any of us.", she said out loud.

 

[Crono]

Celtic remained obedient throughout the time he was pulled around. He had pressed against Ella, silently praying that no one would get hurt with a violent chorus filling his ears. A small bud appeared on the end of his right branch, beginning to grow into some kind of fruit. It had a powerful healing affect and the druid had planned for anyone who was injured to use it.

As the stench of blood filled the air, mixed with the sounds of the Jiinian's final struggle Celtic's shoulders drooped and his posture slouched. Death never settled well with this young boy regardless of the receiver or the reason. He felt sick and had to pull his feet off the ground to get to the counter. He nodded silently to Ella's words, not really listening to much else. Regardless of this his healing fruit was still growing, causing the branch to hung upon to bend slightly.


Flint had not landed on his seat, the resistance of the Jiinain's thick skin caused him to hit his knee on the side of it. He would have cursed if Celtic wasn't there. His victim's choking struggle made him want to shoot his head and end his pain. But he had no gun and had done enough. Peet yelled at him and assumably was trying to revive him, as proven by Ella's words. Speaking of the merfemale the sickle wanted to thank her for keeping Celtic safe but now was not the time.

"You and me think differently." That was all Flint had to say in reply. It was not cold or defiant, it was a statement. He kept his hand as a blade and didn't wipe the blood off. "If worse comes to worse I'll turn myself in. I've got quite the record so they won't think twice." Then the sickle's eyes met the human's. Oh, how they burned. He looked like he was going to take his eyes and empty them onto Baylen to corrode through his skin.

Flint was about to say something rather unpleasant when Celtic's gentle voice rose again. "Maybe you could use this? It's a healing fruit." The blind boy was standing up over the counter, unsurely looking strait ahead, and pointing at the light green fruit. The fruit had its own fancy name but he wasn't thinking about it right now. All he cared about was avoiding Flint getting arrested again.

 

[Nartina]

With the tinkling of the bell, a swath of warm air, and the din of the outside street, a lithe female with a pixie cut, and one long plait thrown over her right shoulder padded into the cafe and stopped dead in her tracks. Long, tapered ears drooped, the antennae and their glands-normally free flowing-fell limp, and large, emerald, eyes widened as she stared, slack-jawed at the scene before her. The door swung shut behind her small frame, blocking out the chaos of the street once more, and the smell of blood suddenly permeated the air she breathed, and stuck to her nostrils, and still the Ju'unda did not move.

Tarjai was small, topping at just under five feet with a wiry frame and innocent face. The Ju'unda's skin and hair lacked melanin save for the tips of her ears, and the very ends of the pixie cut that covered the crown of her head, a clear indicator that at least she, if not her entire race, was almost completely nocturnal. She had a navy blue line tattooed across the bridge of her nose that almost met up with the rectangular tattoos on her cheeks, and spanning from the outer corners of her eyes were fan-like markings that disappeared into her hair-line of the same shade. On her forehead were five jewels, that changed color as the reality of what she'd just walked into began to sink in.

Emerald eyes regarded the group before her, the pupils contracted to slits, and darting from face to face. It was clear this newcomer was completely out of sorts, and not at all too pleased with the scene before her. She almost seemed to avoid looking down at the large corpse laying on the floor altogether as she took a step back the way she'd come, and fumbled for the door handle, or something to keep her form upright.

It was through sheer force of will that she didn't bolt right then and there. This place did come highly recommended after all, and she woke up especially early just to try that...what was it called again? But she didn't expect to find what she saw before her, and she certainly did not know how to react to such a scene. It seemed as though she was trying to figure out the best reaction, when she finally settled on light banter and managed to find her voice.

"Heh," she snorted, "Dey told me to come try dat bitter black drink, said dis place be sellin' the best, but dey didn't tell me I'd be walkin' into a slaughter house."

 

[Blox]

Baylen watched with wide eyes as Peet crouched down and began doing something with the Jiinian. Ella hopped over the counter and towards the group, eyes trained on Peet's actions for a moment. When Baylen met Ella's eyes he took a step back, her look a sharp contrast to her previous soft features. She snapped at him, explaining what Peet was doing, and it made his stomach drop. He wasn't sure how to feel about the Jiinian coming back to life with the realization of what had happened to him. He took a glance outside as Ella continued to speak, seeing a few people looking their way. The noise alone must have brought the attention. "oh shit" Baylen said softly. He realized how much danger he had put their group in to. Even if Peet managed to successfully bring back the Jiinian he wasn't sure what their next step would be.

When Baylen caught sight of Flint he took two more steps back, glancing to the door behind him. He wondered if he could still make a break for the exit and leave this mess to be explained by everyone else to the authorities. His eyes turned to Celtic as he offered the fruit. What a strange young lad and curious abilities. It was nice not to have his stare of blame locked on him as well.

The door bell chimed and brought in a new occupant. The sudden sing-song sound made Baylen jump, side stepping out of the doors way quickly as Tarjai stepped in. She hesitated near the entrance, Baylen watching her with baited breath. The moment she decided to stay, announcing she was looking for some famous drink, Baylen turned to the door and slammed it shut. He locked the door dead bolts then moved to the side windows and proceeded to quickly draw down the shades to fully block the street view from seeing inside. He stumbled through the chairs, tripping a few times in his haste as he managed to black out the street from their view. Trepper peaked out from the kitchen, announcing to the group "The police are on their way."

As Baylen rushed to hide themselves temporarily, Peet's Omni Bit seemed to be working. It was quite the sight to see as the Jiinian was not only brought together again, as best as the Omni Bit could do, but life was restored back in to the massive creature. Baylen had heard of races that had the ability for restoring life. Some had varying limitations and methods but he had not yet witnessed such a feat in action. The Jiinian groaned softly, his large body stirring, as the Omni Bit finished doing it's job.

Purple eye lids lifted heavily, blood shot eyes glazed but open, blinking as comprehension was trying to be grasped. The Jiinian turned himself over and lifted his torso up with another groan of effort. "What...what happened? Where am I?" he grumbled in his deep voice, though his tone was soft and different then before. He looked to Peet who was closest to him, waiting for an answer to his question. Based on his actions, it seemed the Jiinian, with his life brought back again, had lost memory of what had happened in the coffee shop. He looked around the room evenly, not even stopping to glare at Baylen, looking back to Peet as he expected an answer. He was clueless.

Baylen was at the side of the cafe now, watching the Jiinian closely. As the creature scanned the room, casually looking at Baylen along with everyone else, he exhaled deeply with a bit of relief.

The sound of sirens came from the distance. The police would be here any minute now. Baylen rushed back towards the door, standing in front of it as if blocking anyone from leaving the cafe. Baylen glanced to Tarjai then back to Ella. She seemed to be someone who came up with solutions for a living. "Look" he said, slightly out of breath as adrenaline was pumping through his veins. "Look, I-I know I fucked up. But, we can fix this." He gave Tarjai a side glance, making sure not to fully reveal in his words what happened. He looked to Ella again. "We can fix this" he repeated. "This was all just an accident, right?" He looked to Peet. "He was here for coffee and having a bad day. He tripped and in doing so hurt himself. Thankfully...you, uhh Peet were here to help heal his cut. The uh...the fall was pretty hard." He felt the Jiinian's eyes on him as he spoke, ready to absorb this story as truth. Baylen met the Jiinian's eyes and continued, though now speaking directly to him. "You fell pretty hard man. You uh, probably knocked your head bad on one of the table corners." Baylen looked to everyone, hoping they would go along with this or back up his story.

The Jiinian looked to Peet. He was the one kneeling by his side and he assumed he would be able to confirm what had happened.

Police Sirens wailed closer and closer until, with flashing lights outside of the cafe, the police were at the door.

The knob turned once, jerked twice at the locked door, then a fist was pounding heavily at the front. "POLICE, OPEN UP!"

Baylen turned to look at the door but didn't move. He looked back to Ella, hoping she would say something to encourage everyone else. He didn't care at this point if they elaborated the story. He just didn't want the Jiinian to remember or the police to know the truth. The Police banged on the door harder and yelled louder. "OPEN THE DOOR NOW!!"

Baylen blinked and looked back towards Trepper. He forgot she had made the call and realized she might have given them details that could change the story. "Trepper, what did you tell them?" he asked urgently yet in almost a whisper as he stood by the door.

 

[Alis_Audāx]

Ella heard the twinkled of the bell, she looked away from Baylen and followed the sound. When the young female entered the look on her face pretty much mirrored that of those passing by the window. She had certainly stepped into a unsavory scene, this whole situation has turned messy. Plus, it had the potential of become worse now that the Jiinian has been revived.

She turned her attention back to Baylen once he began to talk. She smirked as she listened to him. This was a normal reaction for someone who has found themselves in deep shit. They begin to try and make deals as they wiggle like a worm on a hook. They try so hard to wiggle away from the fisher attempting to avoid the gaping mouth of the fish bellow. The authorities pounding at the door, Trepper has called the authorities.

"You're right, I could fix this. However..." she approached Baylen, her hair seem to swirl and swish in a menacing way. Some of her scales exposed from the holes in her stocking reflected the sunlight from the window, she pulling out her phone and used it as a pointer aiming for the center of Baylen's chest. "You will need to convince everyone here to play along human. You would owe everyone here, and especially me if you wish to use my services.", she looked over at the others, making sure her voice carried so everyone could hear.

"It is up to you all, we will all be questioned for this and the police won't go quietly with suspicious blood on the floor and no dead body. If any of you have any prior involvement with authorities this may not look good for you.", The police began to bang harder at the door. Ella took a few steps back, her phone still out. "That door will not hold up much longer, we need to make a decision now."

Ella gave Tarjai a side ways glance followed by an apologetic look. "Sorry, but it looks like your going to have to make a choice too."

 

[Roose Hurro]

Arise!



"The police are on their way."

These weren't Trepper's exact words, not quite so neat and tidy. If not for her beak, she'd be "spitting" mad at this mess made in her place of business. However, over time, she'd learned how to handle a wide variety of messes, with calm... however, this mess... well, this was the first time anyone had been killed here. She didn't sell booze, just coffee, tea and all the breakfast/lunch fixin's anybeing needed. Yes, needed. Which explained her usual opening question with guests. And also explained why she was back at the counter, again standing with wicked foot on display, ready to leap and fulfill the need to kick ass. If ass needed to be kicked.

Peet? His ears twitched all over the place, taking in every word spoken. His forehead badge... his "sensor"... spread to max range, aware even before sound reached his ears... police on the way. Aware of every bio-reactive emotion, every thudding heart and shuddering breath, every... growth of.......

....... fruit?

Eyes glanced, but then Peet had the "joy" of seeing/feeling/hearing Baylen on his feet and moving about, locking door and closing windows. Doing so even after such a major beat-down. Fear must be driving the human, fear and a massive shot of adrenaline. But he'd be feeling it, sooner than later. But at least the Jiinian and his Omni Bit appeared to be cooperating with each other... save the druid's fruit for the human, once the adrenaline surge wore off. Then...

... Peet dropped to his haunches by the Jiinian's side, clawed hand carefully on shoulder, to keep his "patient" from moving any further...

... "Don't push yourself..." Most of the Jiinian's blood had turned to vapor, drawn into his gaping wound as it knit shut, leaving a pale scar behind. Not quite perfect, but... well, he was breathing and alive again, so all was... hmmm. Good. For him. Not for all, yet. Enough bloodstains still on the floor to bring questions. Peet kept his attentions on the Jiinian long enough to see he wouldn't be dancing about... stay down, relax!

Then, and only then, did Peet's attention flick between Flint and Baylen and 'Ella... and the new arrival, with her bad timing. So. Given all he heard, amongst other perceptions/sensations, all he could do was stand up, not at all self conscious over his lack of pants, shroudruff fully flared, mane ruffled, ears now locked back as he threw up his hands, claws glinting in the overhead lights...

... "No lying..." The sirens had grown loud enough even a human's poor ears could hear. In fact, the sound...

... oh, yes, the sound of heavy knocking and a loud voice. The police had arrived. And they were not happy to find a locked door. And Baylen was desperate. But Trepper was not amused...

"I say what I see, what I hear!" But... she'd been out of the room when the Jiinian had been killed, though she'd heard Peet's words. Could see the yellow blood still staining her floor. And Flint's still bloody blade-hand. No, she was not stupid. Only question? How long ago had she cut communication with the police? But this was all rapidly growing moot. Because the police had decided not to wait for someone to unlock the door...

... no, no, the door's lock simply made various "clicky" noises as someone on the other side rapidly and professionally picked it.......*

....... * SLAM!

And there in the doorway stood a four foot, two inch tall creature bearing a startling resemblance to an armadillo, his eyes roving about just before he tucked away his tools and plucked pen from pocket, licked its end, and started taking notes in his booklet, without comment. And no, he was not the officer who had knocked on the door and demanded entry. Or the one who had "opened" the door with such authority.......

 

[Nartina]

Tarjai, who had been mostly silent until the human pleaded for 'Ella's assistance in covering up the murder and stared at him in disbelief. Though she hadn't been there when the murder happened, it was clear what had transpired. Seeing the blood on the sickle's blade, the large.....man?...on the floor, and the frantic and disheveled appearance of the human now scampering about trying to keep the approaching police out, it was obvious. She was usually slow to anger, but when he asked for them to lie, the jewels in her forehead turned red with anger and she stepped toward him, pointing in his direction.

"Ya dunt know meh from a grahs hoopah, I know, but I ent no cattail wit mah moh-rahls swayin' in dah breeze, peekin' what I tell as troot and lie. I say what I see, dat is deh end of it."

She turned to Ella and nodded, then found a chair to sit upon. Crossing one leg over the other and leaning her elbow against the table, she tilted her head to the side and frowned. She hated conflict, but as much as she wanted to leave at this moment, she knew the right choice would be to stay and give the police the limited information she had. It wasn't like she could get in trouble for what happened. The police were banging on the door mere minutes after she'd arrived, and what little insight she could give would not be enough to fill in the blanks. Instead, she sighed, rested her head on her palms, and watched as the strange feathered creature brought the brute on the floor back to life.

When the Jiinian slowly got up and inquired upon the events before his resurrection, she closed her eyes, but when the human lied, she growled low in her throat. The large creature deserved to know what happened to him, but she definitely wasn't the one to tell him. She hadn't been in contact with many humans in her relatively short life, but she wasn't liking the little experience with humanity she'd had thus far and shook her head with a snort.

"I only wanted to try dat drink. Even got up during deh sun-time just fo' it, yo. You gunn' pay fo' it human? You wit yer scramblin' like a mouse in a trap, you?" She huffed, and glared at the stain on the floor. "E-dah way, I won't lie to deh Po. Too stupid to do dat. I med mah choice. The Po can't git much from meh anyway. Whateva happened here I can't lie about. At least dat one is alive again," She pointed at the Jiinian, "Mehbeh deh punishment won't be as.....aaasht...what be dat word?"

Then she heard the distinct sound of a lock tumbling, and the door slammed open. She jerked a little in her seat and glanced at the officer that stepped inside. Her antennae were trembling with her stress, and her body was tense as she waited for the officer to speak.

 

[Crono]

Flint looked at the newcomer with a molment of shock followed by a sigh. The Jiinain was back to life and thankfully not trying to kill them anymore but the deed was done. Tristain had seen the blood on his blade and the floor. His record would not help matters either. He had mudered the Jiinain, and that was what the cops were going to conclude.

But Flint couldn't leave Celtic. There was no family left to care for him. Baylen still had his damn Doomra, and those only belonged to the Jiinains. If asked for the truth Flint would give the whole truth and the human would be sent to jail, if everything went well. The sickle's blade was still there, the blood would only go on his hand and make him more suspicious.

Celtic's branches twitched with every banging sound and angry yell. A new voice had entered the cafe, but he wasn't paying as much attention as he normally would. Flint's voice asked him, "only speak when spoken to, ok?" He nodded, then listened to his guardian's footsteps as they came to where he figured Ella to be.

Flint spoke in a pleading whisper, but Celtic heard it. "If I'm arrested you have to take care of him. Please, he's got nowhere left to go. Let him stay with a friend of yours, something. Until I get out, please..." And then the door smashed open.

Flint moved to lean on the wall moments before the door was opened. He put on a calm face and really needed a cigarette right now. "Officers." He greeted, tilting a hat he didn't have with a hand he had lost.

 

[Alis_Audāx]

"Looks like your out of luck.", she said to Baylen as she slipped her phone back in her pocket.

She turned her attention to Flint, his request shocked her. Ella was kind to children but she never had any intention of having any. Much less having to take care of one on her own. Her eyes were wide as she listened to Flint's words, she didn't really have much time to respond back. So when Flint moved away and left her alone with Celtic she felt a slight panic build in her chest.

Ella shuffled closer to Celtic, she reached down and took the boys hand. She gave the hand a reassuring squeeze as the door bursted open.

"Don't worry things will work out just fine, ok?", she said to Celtic with little business smile.

When the armadillo creature stepped through the door, she faced the front of the store and waited for what was to come. However, as she looked at the creature its look pulled at a nagging string in her memory. Where had she seen this one before? This was not the first time she had dealt with law enforcement. Her company president had his run in with the law in the past and they had also been part in assisting law enforcement. In fact Domyouji Enterprises has been known to donate funds to further future enrichment and safety. Maybe that is why she is having this nagging feeling.

 

[Blox]

Baylen watched nervously as Ella approached him, her bright hair framing her stern face. She turned her voice from him to the group, including the newest occupant. She was right though, they would have to make a choice.

Peet was the first to voice himself. No Lying. Baylen raised both of his hands and ran them through his thick dark hair, pulling strands back from his brow as he showed his frustration. All it would take was one of them to fuck up the story. Then Tarjai spoke, although most of what she said was inaudible. He did hear her mention telling the truth; thankfully she didn't know very much. Since when did the universe hold so many people with moral compasses? Baylen looked between the door and the group as the police were nearing entry.

Baylen pointed his finger towards Flint. "I never asked you to do what you did man!" He knew it probably wasn't the best thing to say, seeing as Flint's intentions were to help him. But he never wanted someone to get killed. Well...not at least if the police were going to be involved. Flint kept talking about this record of his. Maybe this would be something Flint could easily take the fall for if he already had done similar illegal activities in the past.

Ella had tried to handle the room but time was out and now was the moment they would find out how this would go down.

Baylen jumped to the side as the lock broke free and the door of Trepper's cafe was opened.

Baylen blinked in surprise at the officer who led the entry, a rather funny looking creature with an unimposing stature. Baylen folded his arms across his chest and gave a side glance to Flint. He knew he was probably sending death glares his way from his last comment.

"Oh man, my head." The Jiinian said in a grumble. He was so confused through all of the conversations and a headache had begun to throb at the base of his thick skull. While Peet was good at calming him his frustration from the confusion was mounting.

Stepping inside the cafe after the first officer was a shape shifting Skrull. He stood at 6 feet with an athletic body, though his size in muscle didn't quite match the Jiinians. His ears were as massive as his jaw, his skin a sickly green color. He looked around the room at each occupant with red narrowed accusatory eyes, chest puffed out with an imposed air of importance, hands tucked in his belt at his hips. The Skrull stepped up next to the other officer, a stark contrast quite comical between the two.

"We got a call about a disturbance. Anyone care to start explaining?" His eyes continued to look across the room, stopping to rest at the Jiinian on the floor, a heavy brow raising in silent question and concern, glancing down to the other officer and the booklet held in hand.

Baylen watched with short breaths. His adrenaline was starting to wear off and he could feel fatigue aching inside. Before he could entertain the idea of resting, a warmth began to spread at his thigh, turning his attention and waking him up. "What the...?" Baylen asked softly to himself. He moved his hand under his jacket to his upper thigh and found the warmth was coming from the Doomra in his pocket where it rested flat against his skin. He tried to shift it as the warmth was becoming more than distracting but slightly uncomfortable. His hand clasped the Doomra in his pocket but when he tried to move it, even to the side to rest on another part of his leg, it didn't move. He felt his skin jerk with it as he tugged at the Doomra softly. Something was happening and it seemed the Doomra wouldn't be falling out of his pocket any time soon.

Baylen grit his teeth and slowly pulled his hand out of his pocket, straightening himself and crossing his arms once more. He tried his best to hold back his building fear, glancing guiltily towards Peet then Ella and Celtic.

The Skrull turned his blood red eyes towards Flint, standing casually to the side. A grin parted his wide gaping mouth just slightly, eyes narrowing. "Flint..." he said. "Why am I not surprised to see you here?"