Epic IC - New York City Freeplay

[C.T.]

Hernan nodded. "I'd love to do that, but I'm providing Miss Dillard with needed moral support at the moment. If, however, you're willing to wait until I've escorted her to her vehicle out front at this meeting's conclusion, I would welcome such a chit chat. I'm... a fan of your work. I assume you're no longer working directly for Miss Waller, yes? Because if you are, we'll have not very much to say, I'm afraid. But... if we are all working for the same... family, then well... Family first, right?"

He grinned and offered a handshake to Digger to show no hard feelings. He was on the job, and other opportunities simply had to wait until that was done.

"I'm in no rush." He replied with a smirk. Albeit one that quickly faded at the mention of Waller. "That wasn't work. That was indentured servitude with a false promises reward. Ain't the easiest thing to refuse a job with the threat of head splosion hanging over you like a shadow. The rope dude could tell ya that if he weren't busy bein' dead." Harkness clasped the other's hand firmly for a few seconds before releasing.
​

"Don't worry 'bout all my new friends, cuz. Worry about yours. That Tockman cat? For real? Geek's gonna try kick you off ivory tower and take your spot first chance he gets. You gonna hire a whiteboy to have your back, hire one with no ambition. Ain't that right Digger?"

He gave one of his usual laughs, though it was shorter and less pronounced. Cottonmouth tossed the file back on the table so it was facing Mariah's way, opened on the page he was expected to sign under the contract as the club owner rubbed his stubble and leaned back in his seat, looking out over the musical act playing with a nod in satisfaction.​

"Funny. Ya know, if ya ever tire of the crime empire business, might try for stand-up. Get one of those laugh tracks. Wouldn't have to even pay a dime, just record yourself. Simple."
​

"Assurances that no chink named after a kitchen appliance representing a crew named after a body part is gonna ever be more important than family. Because if that day ever comes Cornell, I swear the very next day? This here club of yours... Won't be. I used to have an attachment to this place. Now I realize this is a symbol, of things past. Small, petty things. I used to want to change Harlem for the better. Nowadays, I'm thinking bigger. Much bigger."

...Damn. Who would have figured the councilwoman with those cheesy commercials to have ice cold veins?

His gaze just drifted to Stokes for whatever reaction came from the man.

@Michale CS @OrlandoBloomers



​

 

[Mook-LandStrider]

Cornell, unusually enough, wasn't very responsive at first. He was leafing through the file passed his way by Shades, skimming through the pages to digest the essentials rapidly enough, letting Mariah help herself to her usual choice of beverage when one of his serving staff came to offer her it on a tray. It was only when he came to a section that seemed to hang him up that he spoke up in response, his eyebrows furrowing as he licked his thumb and started running his eyes across the words a second time while he replied.

"Don't worry 'bout all my new friends, cuz. Worry about yours. That Tockman cat? For real? Geek's gonna try kick you off ivory tower and take your spot first chance he gets. You gonna hire a whiteboy to have your back, hire one with no ambition. Ain't that right Digger?"

He gave one of his usual laughs, though it was shorter and less pronounced. Cottonmouth tossed the file back on the table so it was facing Mariah's way, opened on the page he was expected to sign under the contract as the club owner rubbed his stubble and leaned back in his seat, looking out over the musical act playing with a nod in satisfaction.

"What is that, Mariah? I can't sign without leaving a legal footprint. You know I don't roll that way. I thought this was gonna be some off-the-cuff, scraps-fall-off-the-table-and-I-pick-'em-up shit."

@Michale CS @C.T.
​

"You weren't. Being hostile."

Illyana looked down at the girl reservedly, expression steadfast and seemingly implacable, her gaze so focused that the continued antics of the rabbit demonlings went completely ignored. This was... odd for her. And why usually she was only sent on missions to rescue mutants from dire straits, not to comfort or give counsel. Cyclops pitched things; Kitty gave the heartwarming speeches and reassurances and hugs that warmed peoples' souls and made them feel unafraid.

Magik just... magicked. And made people cry.

"Wanna get out of here?"

She straightened up suddenly, hand on her hip and looking off to the side in Stargirl's direction.

"Not for long. Somewhere relaxing. McDonalds, I think, if you're hungry. Or if you want somewhere quiet, Wakanda. There is a place I go sometimes; to get some air. Far from civilization. Your imps won't trouble anyone."

Raising her eyebrows, she looked back at Azalia and offered her a hand up.
​

Looking up Azalia was about to burst out crying but, seeing a hand coming her way she suddenly flinched and almost recoiled. Realizing it wasn't a danger she actually started to cry. No one had ever taken the time to help her during one of her break downs. As common as they were, they could be taken care of... if others just helped. But, more often than not she was thrown out or harassed because she couldn't keep herself from crying. Squeezing her eyes shut she took the hand and actually embraced the shorter girl.

Tears streaming down her face she couldn't contain herself any more and burst into tears. Burying her face into Illyanas shoulders. Finally gathering herself after a remarkable few seconds it was obvious the girl was used to struggling often. Taking a deep breath the water fall ceased. Taking a step back she put her hands infront of herself "Uhm... I'd like to avoid people. Im not afraid of... well. Please." Azalia finally mumbled out. She had trouble asking for things but, she felt comfortable enough next to this girl. Looking to Stargirl Azalia nodded "Okay, Thank you... I know I may not have been here for long but, I will likely be back." Azalia said to her with a smile.

Looking over to the new comer Azalia narrowed her eyes. This one had a name and being called an object instead of a person, well that didn't fly. "Excuse me, please identify me as a person. I am not that one." Azalia mumbled out. "May we leave please?" Azalia saked Illyana.

@Michale CS @OrlandoBloomers​

 

[Michale CS]

Looking over to the new comer Azalia narrowed her eyes. This one had a name and being called an object instead of a person, well that didn't fly. "Excuse me, please identify me as a person. I am not that one." Azalia mumbled out. "May we leave please?" Azalia saked Illyana.

"This one doesn't know the manner of speaking I have does she? It's not a demeaning thing, ya know. And just where do you think a person named Callisto might be from, then?" The slight Jamaican accent might be transparent to Azalia, but Stargirl at least had gotten to know Callisto enough to agree.

"She's called herself this one if you want assurances there, sweetheart." Courtney chimed in. "She didn't mean any harm."

"You best be bringing the girl back safe, Darkchilde." Callisto added to Illyana.

@Angelic Fusion @OrlandoBloomers

 

[OrlandoBloomers]

"Oh I don't expect you to sign anything. I just wanted you to appreciate the scope of our relationship. See how much money I could be making, and how generous I'm being to you. You keep that contract. As a reminder. And since it's in print, as your very own six dollars of postage you can mail off to some media hack if you ever think I'm not honoring my side of our arrangement. But, of course this comes at the price of certain assurances..." She leaned back, sipping her drink.

"Assurances that no chink named after a kitchen appliance representing a crew named after a body part is gonna ever be more important than family. Because if that day ever comes Cornell, I swear the very next day? This here club of yours... Won't be. I used to have an attachment to this place. Now I realize this is a symbol, of things past. Small, petty things. I used to want to change Harlem for the better. Nowadays, I'm thinking bigger. Much bigger. And don't you worry about Tockman. He's loyal. Like Shades here."

And below, another song played...

@OrlandoBloomers

"Be careful where you take that line of thinking, Mariah."

In moments, the mood had changed. Cornell was now staring directly at his cousin, all traces of mirth-- Feigned or otherwise-- absent from his face. No posturing, no false amusement and no air of demeaning condescension, his eyes frigid and hard. He took threats, even veiled ones, to his business, to what he built here, very seriously; And that included ones made by family. Uncle Pete was family, too. Mama Mabel's blood ran through both their icy veins, now that was the truth.

After a few tense moments, he sniffed and broke eye contact to grab his drink.

"It was never about "makin' Harlem black". If you're through pretendin' it was, good. But let's drop the bullshit. It's about power, cuz. Power."

He went for his cocktail, but gestured at Mariah over the top of it before drinking.

"You got a taste and now you're all shook up in your priorities. S'okay, I've done it too. But don't ever forget what got you there. Don't ever forget the hits my finances took for you to put you where you're at now. And don't ever forget about family. 'Cause that's what this club means to me."

Raising the glass, he knocked the drink back in one and crossed his forearms on his lap, relaxing. Finally, he snorted and gave a grin.

"Coming in here, trying to roll over me and shit. You forget I ran these streets while you were puttin' chalk to blackboard at boarding school, Mariah. I know the plays I make and I know my business partners. This Foot deal, it'll get you your money and keep me movin' up in the world. That's how it should be. And Luke Cage? All those hyped up superhero wannabes? They ain't gonna be able to take a walk in this city by the time I'm done with this."

@Michale CS @C.T.
​

Courtney gave an approving nod and smile. Everybody was free to leave the Whitmore at any time, and... After dealing with as many disaffected people as she had recently, she knew how uncomfortable and awkward this might be for both Azalea and Illyana. Putting up a barrier to the counseling would just make it worse, and possibly dangerous.
"I trust her." She told Azalia.

"I don't." Callisto said as she entered the room. "But she's the best hope this one has got. X-Men have a... Mixed history with us Morlocks, don't we, Darkchilde? But I'm not going to get in the way here. I'm bitter, not stupid."

@Angelic Fusion @OrlandoBloomers

Looking up Azalia was about to burst out crying but, seeing a hand coming her way she suddenly flinched and almost recoiled. Realizing it wasn't a danger she actually started to cry. No one had ever taken the time to help her during one of her break downs. As common as they were, they could be taken care of... if others just helped. But, more often than not she was thrown out or harassed because she couldn't keep herself from crying. Squeezing her eyes shut she took the hand and actually embraced the shorter girl.

Tears streaming down her face she couldn't contain herself any more and burst into tears. Burying her face into Illyanas shoulders. Finally gathering herself after a remarkable few seconds it was obvious the girl was used to struggling often. Taking a deep breath the water fall ceased. Taking a step back she put her hands infront of herself "Uhm... I'd like to avoid people. Im not afraid of... well. Please." Azalia finally mumbled out. She had trouble asking for things but, she felt comfortable enough next to this girl. Looking to Stargirl Azalia nodded "Okay, Thank you... I know I may not have been here for long but, I will likely be back." Azalia said to her with a smile.

Looking over to the new comer Azalia narrowed her eyes. This one had a name and being called an object instead of a person, well that didn't fly. "Excuse me, please identify me as a person. I am not that one." Azalia mumbled out. "May we leave please?" Azalia saked Illyana.

@Michale CS @OrlandoBloomers​

"This one doesn't know the manner of speaking I have does she? It's not a demeaning thing, ya know. And just where do you think a person named Callisto might be from, then?" The slight Jamaican accent might be transparent to Azalia, but Stargirl at least had gotten to know Callisto enough to agree.

"She's called herself this one if you want assurances there, sweetheart." Courtney chimed in. "She didn't mean any harm."

"You best be bringing the girl back safe, Darkchilde." Callisto added to Illyana.

@Angelic Fusion @OrlandoBloomers

"Oh, it's you. I see you were promoted from sewer-dwelling." Illyana acknowledged towards Callisto, somewhat surprised to see her here nonetheless. It had been a long time since she'd crossed paths with the Morlocks; Before her death, even. As she understood it, they had been through a lot. She could relate.

"That name you call me. I don't go by it anymore. And you, Callisto... you may mistrust me, but you were close to my big brother once. Fear the title of Darkchilde all you wish. Have some faith in the name Rasputin."

Then the succeeding events with Azalia happened, and Magik had little recourse but to stiffen her body like a board and wait for the embrace to be over, looking more than a little discomforted. She wanted to say something, a "don't touch me" or "get off", but the girl was distraught and Illyana wasn't entirely dense. Still, she couldn't bring herself to return the hug. It was too sudden, she was too caught off-guard, and more than anything she didn't like to be touched. The hand up had been the most she was expecting. Ultimately, she ended up just awkwardly patting Azalia on the head, simultaneously uttering a low request; "Please, I'd rather you..."

Then she trailed off and just sighed. A moment after that exchange mercifully ended, Illyana nodded at the request to avoid people and raised her hand. Another stepping disc appeared in the middle of the room and expanded, curls of energy flitting upwards towards the roof, awaiting their departure whenever the girl was ready.

@Michale CS @Angelic Fusion​

 

[Michale CS]

"Coming in here, trying to roll over me and shit. You forget I ran these streets while you were puttin' chalk to blackboard at boarding school, Mariah. I know the plays I make and I know my business partners. This Foot deal, it'll get you your money and keep me movin' up in the world. That's how it should be. And Luke Cage? All those hyped up superhero wannabes? They ain't gonna be able to take a walk in this city by the time I'm done with this."

After the last of her cousin's replies, Mariah set her drink aside and smiled. But that smile was the smile of a predator, and of satisfaction. Cornell acted just like she and Shades predicted. He just up and told her all his plans for the weapons. If the ninjas were giving him the money to pay for the weapons, that's another layer of deniability. And what's more - his defensiveness about Harlem's Paradise was still so easily played upon, even now. For a smart man, her cousin could be made to do some stupid things if the right buttons were pressed.

But it was Shades that spoke first. "We're all on the same side here, Cornell. You and your cousin are passionate people. Let's not lose sight of the fact that at the end of the day, we're all working towards the same goals." At this point he put a hand on Mariah's shoulder.

"Things are changing. Escalating. Rumor has it that that same man you talked to is visiting other people of note. Building a cooperative. We all know how well that move worked out for Fisk. Trust in family, right?"

Mariah made several faces, then finally shook her head and put her hand up. "Ain't nobody got to remind me how I got where I am. I can always count on you to remind me if I ever do. After the first case of two dozen of the pistols, which should be ready in a few days... Well I gotta take me a plane trip and talk with some royalty to secure enough of the materials to go into production. Money is not the issue, I gotta make nice with the King of Wakanda and convince him to sell me enough Vibranium to do more than make the pop guns like I gave you. I've got a plan. And, I've got a backup plan if that fails. I just wanted you to know that if it takes a little bit to get this under way that it ain't me holding it up, cousin. So why don't we just leave each other to do what we're best at? Getting the materials is going to take politics and diplomacy. Getting the finished product out there and getting the money train moving, that's aall you cuz."

At this point she stood up and looked over Digger. "For someone who got a rep like you, I thought you'd be thinner."

Shades made a gesture unseen by Mariah to Digger that said, leave it lie, and escorted Mariah to the street, whispering once to her then walking back over to Digger.

"So... You said you had something to ask me? Ask away."

Another song began on the stage...

 

[Mook-LandStrider]

"Be careful where you take that line of thinking, Mariah."

In moments, the mood had changed. Cornell was now staring directly at his cousin, all traces of mirth-- Feigned or otherwise-- absent from his face. No posturing, no false amusement and no air of demeaning condescension, his eyes frigid and hard. He took threats, even veiled ones, to his business, to what he built here, very seriously; And that included ones made by family. Uncle Pete was family, too. Mama Mabel's blood ran through both their icy veins, now that was the truth.

After a few tense moments, he sniffed and broke eye contact to grab his drink.

"It was never about "makin' Harlem black". If you're through pretendin' it was, good. But let's drop the bullshit. It's about power, cuz. Power."

He went for his cocktail, but gestured at Mariah over the top of it before drinking.

"You got a taste and now you're all shook up in your priorities. S'okay, I've done it too. But don't ever forget what got you there. Don't ever forget the hits my finances took for you to put you where you're at now. And don't ever forget about family. 'Cause that's what this club means to me."

Raising the glass, he knocked the drink back in one and crossed his forearms on his lap, relaxing. Finally, he snorted and gave a grin.

"Coming in here, trying to roll over me and shit. You forget I ran these streets while you were puttin' chalk to blackboard at boarding school, Mariah. I know the plays I make and I know my business partners. This Foot deal, it'll get you your money and keep me movin' up in the world. That's how it should be. And Luke Cage? All those hyped up superhero wannabes? They ain't gonna be able to take a walk in this city by the time I'm done with this."

@Michale CS @C.T.
​

"Oh, it's you. I see you were promoted from sewer-dwelling." Illyana acknowledged towards Callisto, somewhat surprised to see her here nonetheless. It had been a long time since she'd crossed paths with the Morlocks; Before her death, even. As she understood it, they had been through a lot. She could relate.

"That name you call me. I don't go by it anymore. And you, Callisto... you may mistrust me, but you were close to my big brother once. Fear the title of Darkchilde all you wish. Have some faith in the name Rasputin."

Then the succeeding events with Azalia happened, and Magik had little recourse but to stiffen her body like a board and wait for the embrace to be over, looking more than a little discomforted. She wanted to say something, a "don't touch me" or "get off", but the girl was distraught and Illyana wasn't entirely dense. Still, she couldn't bring herself to return the hug. It was too sudden, she was too caught off-guard, and more than anything she didn't like to be touched. The hand up had been the most she was expecting. Ultimately, she ended up just awkwardly patting Azalia on the head, simultaneously uttering a low request; "Please, I'd rather you..."

Then she trailed off and just sighed. A moment after that exchange mercifully ended, Illyana nodded at the request to avoid people and raised her hand. Another stepping disc appeared in the middle of the room and expanded, curls of energy flitting upwards towards the roof, awaiting their departure whenever the girl was ready.​

Feeling the tension in her body as the girl stiffen Azalia looked at Illyana "Sorry.." She mumbled out blushing. When the portal opened up the red head felt the surge of energy. Unable to see it she felt around her neck "I think I left my necklace... I.. I don't know where it is." Azalia said alittle alarmed. I can see it but I dont know where it is. I think one of the rabbits took it. Azazel! Find it and find me." She said alarmed. Taking a breath to calm herself she walked through the portal unsure of what to expect on the other side.

@OrlandoBloomers​

 

[OrlandoBloomers]

After the last of her cousin's replies, Mariah set her drink aside and smiled. But that smile was the smile of a predator, and of satisfaction. Cornell acted just like she and Shades predicted. He just up and told her all his plans for the weapons. If the ninjas were giving him the money to pay for the weapons, that's another layer of deniability. And what's more - his defensiveness about Harlem's Paradise was still so easily played upon, even now. For a smart man, her cousin could be made to do some stupid things if the right buttons were pressed.

But it was Shades that spoke first. "We're all on the same side here, Cornell. You and your cousin are passionate people. Let's not lose sight of the fact that at the end of the day, we're all working towards the same goals." At this point he put a hand on Mariah's shoulder.

"Things are changing. Escalating. Rumor has it that that same man you talked to is visiting other people of note. Building a cooperative. We all know how well that move worked out for Fisk. Trust in family, right?"

Mariah made several faces, then finally shook her head and put her hand up. "Ain't nobody got to remind me how I got where I am. I can always count on you to remind me if I ever do. After the first case of two dozen of the pistols, which should be ready in a few days... Well I gotta take me a plane trip and talk with some royalty to secure enough of the materials to go into production. Money is not the issue, I gotta make nice with the King of Wakanda and convince him to sell me enough Vibranium to do more than make the pop guns like I gave you. I've got a plan. And, I've got a backup plan if that fails. I just wanted you to know that if it takes a little bit to get this under way that it ain't me holding it up, cousin. So why don't we just leave each other to do what we're best at? Getting the materials is going to take politics and diplomacy. Getting the finished product out there and getting the money train moving, that's aall you cuz."

At this point she stood up and looked over Digger. "For someone who got a rep like you, I thought you'd be thinner."

Shades made a gesture unseen by Mariah to Digger that said, leave it lie, and escorted Mariah to the street, whispering once to her then walking back over to Digger.

"So... You said you had something to ask me? Ask away."

Another song began on the stage...

"That's the way it goes."

Cornell said simply to his cousin's concluding remark in regards to letting them both play their parts, opening his hands in full agreement. Falling into a ponderous silence after Shades spoke up, he put his elbows on his seat and let both hands intertwine in front of his chin, one finger tapping his opposite knuckle as he assumed a relaxed idle posture while listening to what Mariah had to say in response. He still said nothing and his expression didn't change when she got up to go, but when she was moving past his seat for the stairs he suddenly held out a hand to take her elbow in an attempt to stop her; Nothing forceful, or even vigorous enough to give Shades any cause for concern. Just a light nudge to let her know he wanted her attention.

"Look, you know I wasn't... I didn't mean to square up with you like that. My bad. You and me, we're still good. A'ight?"

He looked up with a rare, imploring expression on his face, being sincere for once.

"You got a place here, cuz, even if Harlem's past tense for you. So roll down whenever you want. You're always welcome at the Paradise. Free drinks and a VIP experience, and I know your old ass likes the music up in here. Ha-ha."

He laughed predictably, shaking his finger slightly in her direction. Whatever Mariah's response was, he dropped his hand and let her go on her way, settling back in his seat for a moment before he leaned forward to take another look at that file. And cast a curious glance in the direction of Boomerang and Shades as they had they started their little chat. He didn't know what circles someone like Lawton ran in these days, but Shades was slick. Had plenty of connections of his own, including among circles Cottonmouth himself wasn't welcome in. Maybe he could tell Digger something.

@Michale CS @C.T.​

 

[C.T.]

He, for one, was enjoying this far too much. If the slow clapping and grin were anything to go by. "All of ya must have the craziest family get-togethers. Spitting more fire at each other than that fire bloke did...fer a while. Just had to rile him up and boom. Tiny Mexican ball of rage. Shoulda seen it. Even still, it comes close. Tossup for whichever has more heat."
​

Mariah made several faces, then finally shook her head and put her hand up. "Ain't nobody got to remind me how I got where I am. I can always count on you to remind me if I ever do. After the first case of two dozen of the pistols, which should be ready in a few days... Well I gotta take me a plane trip and talk with some royalty to secure enough of the materials to go into production. Money is not the issue, I gotta make nice with the King of Wakanda and convince him to sell me enough Vibranium to do more than make the pop guns like I gave you. I've got a plan. And, I've got a backup plan if that fails. I just wanted you to know that if it takes a little bit to get this under way that it ain't me holding it up, cousin. So why don't we just leave each other to do what we're best at? Getting the materials is going to take politics and diplomacy. Getting the finished product out there and getting the money train moving, that's aall you cuz."

And things get even more interestin. Not just this Foot deal, or the arms dealer guy. This little web stretches all the way out to the King of Wakanda, huh? Prolly the most well-off nation in all of that continent. Now ain't that fancy? Once or twice he thought about some of the stuff he could nab if he tried to make a move there...but those thoughts were quickly brushed off. Daring is one thing, stupidity is quite another. But a legit connection...the day just gets better and better.​

At this point she stood up and looked over Digger. "For someone who got a rep like you, I thought you'd be thinner."

​

Shades made a gesture unseen by Mariah to Digger that said, leave it lie, and escorted Mariah to the street, whispering once to her then walking back over to Digger. "So... You said you had something to ask me? Ask away."

"Yeah. Prolly somethin unrelated to all this backroom jockeying amongst the head honchos. Stokes was able to gimme something I sure didn't expect, but helpful regardless. Ya see, the other day as I was emptying my bank account, I got hit with another job offer. Find somebody, use 'em for leverage to bring out the real guy they want to get. Daddy issues, I'm guessing. Like so many. And it just so happens, one of the guys I got conscripted into service with happens to have ran with this chick too. Small world and all that shit. Deadshot himself. As fun as it would be to try and track him down myself, I'mma pass on that. Which brings me to ya. At the start, I just figured hell if there's anyone on the street who would know all the players worth knowing about..." Boomerang gestured openly at Shades.

"And you guys having ties to Wakanda of all things doesn't exactly go against that rep. So. Floyd Lawton? Seen him around lately? Heard whispers? Anything at all."

@Michale CS @OrlandoBloomers​

 

[OrlandoBloomers]

Feeling the tension in her body as the girl stiffen Azalia looked at Illyana "Sorry.." She mumbled out blushing. When the portal opened up the red head felt the surge of energy. Unable to see it she felt around her neck "I think I left my necklace... I.. I don't know where it is." Azalia said alittle alarmed. I can see it but I dont know where it is. I think one of the rabbits took it. Azazel! Find it and find me." She said alarmed. Taking a breath to calm herself she walked through the portal unsure of what to expect on the other side.

@OrlandoBloomers​

"It's fine, I'm simply... not accustomed."

Illyana replied regretfully, exhaling again as she looked off to the side. She had too much confidence in herself to be much of a blusher, but she did feel somewhat ashamed she couldn't bring herself to embrace someone in such obvious distress after being sent here to help them. She really was an ill fit for the role of an X-Man. Maybe that was why they relegated her services to being their version of the magic schoolbus so often. She raised an eyebrow at Azalia's concern for her necklace, striding forward to follow her through the teleporting disc and to their destination, speaking with admittedly a little impatience. "Is it important? Do you want me to look for it?"

More striking than her words, however, was the sudden and complete shift in surroundings they experienced. The scent of hotel lobby was supplanted by clean air and lush foliage, the two of them emerging onto a sort of sharp cliffside overlooking jungle foliage that seemed to go on and on for miles. The sound of chirping and distant rushing water pervaded the whole area, yet the murmurs, clangs and clamors that normally came with the inherent clumsiness of human civilization were nowhere to be heard.

Illyana stopped to take in the sight as she did every time she came here, smiling slightly and putting a hand on her hip.

"Here's the place. New York is over seven thousand miles away; welcome to Wakanda's uncontested wilderness. Watch the cliff."

She added that last part cautioningly, though she made sure not to deposit them too close to the edge.

@Angelic Fusion​

 

[Mook-LandStrider]

"It's fine, I'm simply... not accustomed."

Illyana replied regretfully, exhaling again as she looked off to the side. She had too much confidence in herself to be much of a blusher, but she did feel somewhat ashamed she couldn't bring herself to embrace someone in such obvious distress after being sent here to help them. She really was an ill fit for the role of an X-Man. Maybe that was why they relegated her services to being their version of the magic schoolbus so often. She raised an eyebrow at Azalia's concern for her necklace, striding forward to follow her through the teleporting disc and to their destination, speaking with admittedly a little impatience. "Is it important? Do you want me to look for it?"

More striking than her words, however, was the sudden and complete shift in surroundings they experienced. The scent of hotel lobby was supplanted by clean air and lush foliage, the two of them emerging onto a sort of sharp cliffside overlooking jungle foliage that seemed to go on and on for miles. The sound of chirping and distant rushing water pervaded the whole area, yet the murmurs, clangs and clamors that normally came with the inherent clumsiness of human civilization were nowhere to be heard.

Illyana stopped to take in the sight as she did every time she came here, smiling slightly and putting a hand on her hip.

"Here's the place. New York is over seven thousand miles away; welcome to Wakanda's uncontested wilderness. Watch the cliff."

She added that last part cautioningly, though she made sure not to deposit them too close to the edge.

@Angelic Fusion​

The girl stepped through and found herself smacked in the face with air that.. smelled nothing like new york. "Wow, where are we?" She asked looking around. Crouching down to the ground she could actually see the grass and dirt. "Yeah, this doesn't look like city dirt. Trust me, I've laid in enough city dirt to tell you the chemicles in it. Its disgusting." She chirped out. Azazel appearing soon after its body seemed to simply be there with no other effects. The blinking made no noise, only the rabbits footsteps alerted Azalia of its presence. Staring at the girl it didn't speak but Azalia understood what it was doing. "Right, gotcha... Okay thank you." Azalia said to the rabbit.

"I wonder what it looks like out there. Im actually blind... technicly. I cant see much farther than like.. a few inches." Azalia admitted. Holding the necklace up the middle of it suddenly opened revealing a glowing yellow eye. Lidless it stared out before suddenly snapped onto Illyana "It was made by yours truly. I was helpless beforeI figured this one out. It was the first thing I created. Nothing like the creatures I make, I can manipulate matter and make things with my mind. Its neat actually." Azalia went on to say.

Putting the necklace on her sight returned. Although not through her own eyes it was something she had become acclimized to. "So, that was neat. Ohhh! Oh wow." She said finally noticing where they were. Walking forward she walked right off the side of the cliff. Disappearing she actually went under the clipps edge and was hanging by using her stitch ability. Her own shadow held her to the bottom of the cliff and let the girl walk freely. Shadow writheing it began to stretch out before Azalia walked back up "Whew, I had to come back up. It doesn't look like it but, that is kinda hard to concentrate on with everything out here. Its calming, but alot to take in at once. To be honest, I dont remember ever leaveing New York..." She mumbled out scratching her head.

@OrlandoBloomers​

 

[Michale CS]

"Look, you know I wasn't... I didn't mean to square up with you like that. My bad. You and me, we're still good. A'ight?"

He looked up with a rare, imploring expression on his face, being sincere for once.

"You got a place here, cuz, even if Harlem's past tense for you. So roll down whenever you want. You're always welcome at the Paradise. Free drinks and a VIP experience, and I know your old ass likes the music up in here. Ha-ha."

She turned to look at him. And for once, her face was so utterly neutral, that Cornell had no idea what she was thinking. That was scary enough, but when an agonizingly long moment later, she shook her head, it almost sent Cornell's heart into his stomach. Then, she huffed out a sigh and rolled her eyes, patting Cornell on his cheek. "We straight. I can't stay mad at your macho ass for long. I been under a lot of stress lately, Cornell. I thought once I had OsCorp, all of the problems would go away. They just got to be bigger." Mariah dropped her hand and sighed once more.

Earlier that day...
"Remember, once you get him riled up he's going to be insecure. You can't leave him thinking anything but that you and he are as tight as you ever were. Capitulate. Apologize even."
"Apologize, Shades? For pointing out that he got too big for his damn britches and is messing with one of the most ruthless- fine."
"Not just fine. You gotta mean it. You still need him to move out what you want moved out, we don't have the manpower or the reach to fill in a gap if he's gone. This wheel needs to stay nice and greasy if you want everything to go well."
"You're right, you're right. We just... gotta play damage control now. I'll settle up and play the regret game with him. Apologize for telling his dumb ass the truth. And I'll sell it. He won't even know how deep I'm sellin it."
"That's the right attitude, Mariah. Remember what I told you once about lying?"
"Every good lie runs parallel to the truth."

"I shouldn't have come at you sideways about Harlem's Paradise neither, but I needed you to know how important it is not to lose yourself. I didn't mean it when I said this place was small. It's a symbol all right, one of what lookin at the world and saying Hell no I ain't satisfied with what you give me. And then just takin what you deserve. What you earned. I'm leavin' Shades here in New York to handle the day to day while I head down to Wakanda. As soon as I know something, you will. Good Night, Cornell." Then she headed out, talking briefly to Shades as she left.

@OrlandoBloomers

 

[Michale CS]

Deadshot himself. As fun as it would be to try and track him down myself, I'mma pass on that. Which brings me to ya. At the start, I just figured hell if there's anyone on the street who would know all the players worth knowing about..." Boomerang gestured openly at Shades.

"And you guys having ties to Wakanda of all things doesn't exactly go against that rep. So. Floyd Lawton? Seen him around lately? Heard whispers? Anything at all."

"Well, general ear to the ground says for a bit he had a serious mad on for another merc who stepped in his way, taking out his client before his client could pay. They both went at it for a bit and both of em went ghost. You ever hear of a guy they call Deathstroke? Anyway, that was a year or so back. If both of them are still alive right now, they probably worked something out. That being said... I have access to a lot of files. Norman Osborn was one paranoid motherfucker. But if I have to put boots to ground on this, myself or through contacts, people are going to want to be paid. If it's just me? Like I said, family first, I'll just forget about any minor expenses I have to use." Shades let that settle in and used his shades on Digger just then, settling a bet that he had with someone concerning the truth about Pinky.

"If I gotta grease a lot of wheels, I reserve the right to get back at you and let you know what I'm out. I'm keeping this between you and me. As far as Mariah knows, I'm just buddying up to you to get to know the people Cornell is pulling in around him. So anything you and I have to say on this matter? Anyone else asks me about it, including Stokes, I don't know a damned thing."

He stood up and adjusted his coat. "It's too soon to even think that I could put a price on this if at all, so I'm not about to lie and say I am. But I am curious... about why you're looking for your old team captain after all this time? Let me in on that, and we'll call that a down payment against anything I may or may not have to be reimbursed for."

@C.T.

 

[Nomad-22]

Raphael patrolled alone through one of the numerous man-size tunnels beneath New York. He kept a vigilant eye as he walked stealthy as posssible through the sewage-filled river at his feet. While the criminal element may claim that their turfs as the underworld, Raph knew the truth, the maze of sewers was the real deal. This true underworld is just as harsh and unforgiving as any other jungle. The so-called street toughs wouldn't last a week down here in his opinion.

Just because most humans don't live here, dosen't make it vacant. Beside his family, there were...other inhabitants, who made this place their home. Such beings and creatures that would be labeled as freaks back on the surface.

Leatherhead, Slash, the Morlocks, the Rat King, and some others came into mind. The surface people really have no idea of what/who lived and died below them.

As if most of them would care. They constantly dumped all of their crap down here in the first place to put it all out of mind.

Just as he thought about all of it, Raph heard some voices nearby in the next tunnel. The red bandana-wearing Turtle stopped in his tracks and listen.

"I hate this place." A young voice complained before receiving a reply by another, more angry

"Shut your trap Jose and keeping moving."

"That's easy for you to say Derek. You lived in an rathole like this."

"Would you two just can it already. We got to link back up with the others as soon as possible. The Brotherhood is counting on us."

A woman's voice with an foreign accent joined in, causing the other two to grunt in agreement as they continue onward. With flashlights in hand, the trio passed by the left corner that Raph had hidden himself at. Raphael had a feeling in his gut that these yahoos weren't here to sightsee. So he followed them from behind some distances away, within the darkness, utilizing his stealth training to full effect. Raph may not be brainy like his bro Donnie, but he did know that nobody comes down to these parts unless they have no other choice and or were up to something.

 

[C.T.]

"Well, general ear to the ground says for a bit he had a serious mad on for another merc who stepped in his way, taking out his client before his client could pay. They both went at it for a bit and both of em went ghost. You ever hear of a guy they call Deathstroke? Anyway, that was a year or so back. If both of them are still alive right now, they probably worked something out. That being said... I have access to a lot of files. Norman Osborn was one paranoid motherfucker. But if I have to put boots to ground on this, myself or through contacts, people are going to want to be paid. If it's just me? Like I said, family first, I'll just forget about any minor expenses I have to use." Shades let that settle in and used his shades on Digger just then, settling a bet that he had with someone concerning the truth about Pinky.

"If I gotta grease a lot of wheels, I reserve the right to get back at you and let you know what I'm out. I'm keeping this between you and me. As far as Mariah knows, I'm just buddying up to you to get to know the people Cornell is pulling in around him. So anything you and I have to say on this matter? Anyone else asks me about it, including Stokes, I don't know a damned thing."

He stood up and adjusted his coat. "It's too soon to even think that I could put a price on this if at all, so I'm not about to lie and say I am. But I am curious... about why you're looking for your old team captain after all this time? Let me in on that, and we'll call that a down payment against anything I may or may not have to be reimbursed for."

@C.T.

"...So the last time anyone heard from him was a year ago. When he goes mano a mano with Deathstroke. After that, he just goes cold. No word on the street at all." Digger uncrossed his arms, one hand scratching at the back of his head. "Fuck."

He sighed. "Well I had figured I'd invite him out for a beer, get him talking. I mean like I said, he spent some time working with this chick. She's doing pretty good hiding from strangers and enemies from what I hear, but I reckoned if a friend was looking to meet up, could lead me right to her. But he might be dead for all I know and if he isn't, that means I'd be playing hide and seek with him, so he can help me play hide and seek with her, so somebody else can play hide and seek with her dad. Hell naw to that." Harkness shook his head.

"Well, how bout this then?" He pulled up the file, handing it over to Shades. "Ya got anything direct on her at all? And money's no issue if ya hafta put the word out, I emptied my bank account remember? I got plenty more if it comes down to it. Plus the reward for this job in the first place."

@Michale CS​

 

[Michale CS]

"Well, how bout this then?" He pulled up the file, handing it over to Shades. "Ya got anything direct on her at all? And money's no issue if ya hafta put the word out, I emptied my bank account remember? I got plenty more if it comes down to it. Plus the reward for this job in the first place."

"Scandal Savage. Highly combat trained, been shot by Deadshot more than once and lived to tell about it. Her daddy is an immortal who wants to rule the world. Lesbian, her girlfriend is a real Knockout I hear. She actually survived saying no to Amanda Waller. That last part is kind of the scariest. And that's just what I got from the OsCorp files. You gotta hand it to paranoid people with a lot of money to hack everything hackable about possible opponents, so you can thank Norman Osborn for all this intel... You see, I made it a habit to get myself familiar with any possible talent that I might recruit or have to face once we got into OsCorp. Her daddy you see, wants her to continue his line, and given her sexual preferences, that's pretty unlikely. Using her to bring him out of hiding is a pretty cold move, but it would probably work." Shades shrugged, though. It was a legit strategy.

He leaned in and spoke quietly, well under the din of the current act on stage, to Digger. "Tell you what... you've seen that both Mariah and Cornell have hair-trigger tempers. So, in payment for me digging into this and getting you my best lead for Savage? You just give me a heads-up anytime you notice him blowing his top, or if he's planning some major move. Nothing big. Just give me a call and invite me out for a beer, huh? I'll even buy the beer afterward. And if you want to continue the arrangement after you've got your leads? I'll have the boys in the lab cook up some special toys for you personally. That work for you?"

@C.T.

 

[C.T.]

"Scandal Savage. Highly combat trained, been shot by Deadshot more than once and lived to tell about it. Her daddy is an immortal who wants to rule the world. Lesbian, her girlfriend is a real Knockout I hear. She actually survived saying no to Amanda Waller. That last part is kind of the scariest. And that's just what I got from the OsCorp files. You gotta hand it to paranoid people with a lot of money to hack everything hackable about possible opponents, so you can thank Norman Osborn for all this intel... You see, I made it a habit to get myself familiar with any possible talent that I might recruit or have to face once we got into OsCorp. Her daddy you see, wants her to continue his line, and given her sexual preferences, that's pretty unlikely. Using her to bring him out of hiding is a pretty cold move, but it would probably work." Shades shrugged, though. It was a legit strategy.

He leaned in and spoke quietly, well under the din of the current act on stage, to Digger. "Tell you what... you've seen that both Mariah and Cornell have hair-trigger tempers. So, in payment for me digging into this and getting you my best lead for Savage? You just give me a heads-up anytime you notice him blowing his top, or if he's planning some major move. Nothing big. Just give me a call and invite me out for a beer, huh? I'll even buy the beer afterward. And if you want to continue the arrangement after you've got your leads? I'll have the boys in the lab cook up some special toys for you personally. That work for you?"

@C.T.

He was midway through another can when he caught that, his eyebrows raising as he lowered the can. "Lesbian lovers...that's perfect. Knockout, eh? Finally a connection I can use. I know who that is. Had a stint with her alongside a few nobodies and Lawton. Thought her dead when we had to bugger out, but of course she survived. Hell, think I got her on the contact list. That makes it hella easier. Much appreciated."

"..." He actually snickered at that before he too lowered his voice. "Good ta see I hadn't figured ya wrong. All that talk about bein family just a bunch of sentimental rubbish. When it comes down to it, only looking out for number one. Underhanded spying. I'm flattered at your attempt to sweeten this deal. I wouldn't say no to some new things but way I see it, I can get that just fine from Stokes. Nah, I got a better idea. See, the street goes both ways. Ya want that kind of information, I'd better get some in return from Dillard. If that don't work for you, sucks. Looks like cash will be your only payment." Boomerang paused for a sec, curiosity rising.

"...Say, what's OsCorp got on me?"​

@Michale CS​

 

[Michale CS]

I got a better idea. See, the street goes both ways. Ya want that kind of information, I'd better get some in return from Dillard. If that don't work for you, sucks. Looks like cash will be your only payment." Boomerang paused for a sec, curiosity rising.

"...Say, what's OsCorp got on me?"

Shades smirked. "Looks like I have my first info for info, now don't I? Amended plan - the first time I get a call from you inviting me out for a brewskie? I'll come with a little care package. Everything they got on you and all of Waller's Ballers. But, color me curious, I'll still set the lab boys on those toys. Hell, I might even learn how to toss 'em." He feigned an underhanded throw.

[BCOLOR=#000000]"So far this has been a one way street information wise. Once it's reciprocated, we'll have us an accord." [/BCOLOR]He slipped Digger a card with his cell number on it. "You and Pinky stay safe, huh?"

With that, unless Digger had more to say, he'd excuse himself, calling an Uber to head back to OsCorp. The unofficial COO had a lot on his plate now that Mariah was going to be away.

@C.T.

 

[C.T.]

Shades smirked. "Looks like I have my first info for info, now don't I? Amended plan - the first time I get a call from you inviting me out for a brewskie? I'll come with a little care package. Everything they got on you and all of Waller's Ballers. But, color me curious, I'll still set the lab boys on those toys. Hell, I might even learn how to toss 'em." He feigned an underhanded throw.

[BCOLOR=#000000]"So far this has been a one way street information wise. Once it's reciprocated, we'll have us an accord." [/BCOLOR]He slipped Digger a card with his cell number on it. "You and Pinky stay safe, huh?"

With that, unless Digger had more to say, he'd excuse himself, calling an Uber to head back to OsCorp. The unofficial COO had a lot on his plate now that Mariah was going to be away.

"Yeah, sure. Will do." He replied back with a nod at staying safe, remaining quiet until Shades left. Once he had, Boomerang laughed. "Waller's ballers?" He repeated mockingly. "Pfft. Shades...you're something else." Crunching up his beer can, he tossed it over into the nearest trash can, other hand flicking through his phone's contacts.

"Now how to go through with this..."​

 

[Michale CS]

A woman's voice with an foreign accent joined in, causing the other two to grunt in agreement as they continue onward. With flashlights in hand, the trio passed by the left corner that Raph had hidden himself. Raphael had a feeling in his gut that these yahoos weren't here to sightsee. So he followed them from behind some distances away, within the darkness, utilizing his stealth training to full effect. Raph may not be brainy like his bro Donnie, but he did know that nobody comes down to these parts unless they have no other choice and or were up something.

"Booyakasha!" Mikey whispered in Raph's ear. "Ya didn't think I'd let you go out by yourself again didya?"

At the expected shushing Mikey just rolled his eyes and stayed quiet - happy to have the last word. He followed his brother and continued to listen to the young peoples' conversation.

@Nomad-22

 

[C.T.]

"Ah ha! I do still have it." There it was. Knockout. It had taken a while, sifting through--aww who was he kidding? He had just spent a few hours watching...a quality tv show. Thumbing on the call button and holding the phone up to his ear, he did wonder if this would actually go through. Been more than a while. New phones and all that.

@Michale CS​