Halden didn't put too much stock into the wacky behaviors of Destiny City's inner-city denizens. Situated as he was on the outskirts with both his cabin and restaurant, it was enough to watch the goings-on on the news at night when he had snuffed out the barbecue pit at sundown. Couldn't much help out with the agents of Chaos if he was spending every evening sweating over racks of ribs hissing and spitting over a roaring fire, could he? The longhouse didn't necessarily have a closing time, Ned took the night shift and let the orders flow until the day's stock of prepped meat had dried up.

Halden's regulars had a pretty good feel for when this would occur based upon the day of the week, so they rarely left without the hearty meal they sought whilst the business owner enjoyed his own meal in the comforts of home barely a quarter mile down the packed dirt road. Tonight's newscast was more of the same, strange lights and sightings of UFOs or aliens were taking top billing once again. Not that they were entirely off-course, as extra-terrestrials did technically exist as the page now knew. But those were senshi and knights, not little green men.

Videos containing "proof" of these potential invaders were being played behind the newscaster, with Halden sparing an occasional glance from his buttered corn cob to scoff at the blurry clips.

"Attention-grabbing fools," he muttered, tearing away a hearty bite of smoked rib with his teeth and swallowing thickly.

A good washdown of mead cleared his throat, and he wiped his beard with the back of his free hand just in time to tune back in.

"Several citizens are gathering in the central park this evening in what they're claiming is 'the Arrival,' where these aliens will make themselves known and take anyone willing onboard their craft."

The news anchor allowed herself a small smile at this.

"Those wishing to take part should hurry to the landing site, as it's already getting crowed with true believers. In other news..."

Halden snapped off the TV with a flick of the remote, setting his food thoughtfully back to his hand-hewn table. On the one hand, nothing was likely to happen. But what if this was some manner of distraction to allow for the Negaverse to drain a large amount of energy at once? Those who would believe this "Arrival" was real in the first place were likely on the fringes of society, and could easily be missed for several days.

Sighing, the page stood and wrapped some foil over his remaining dinner. It wouldn't be as good reheated, but duty called. If he could pre-emptively save those weirdos, it'd be worth the loss of the barbecue plate. This was somewhat alleviated by the burgeoning joy he felt whenever he knew he was going to ride his motorcycle. Making his way to the barn that served as both his smithy and garage, Halden threw the door open wide to reveal Tanngrisnir in all her glory. The Harley shone in the rays of the setting sun, chrome pipes and handlebars gleaming.

"Ah, my valiant steed!" Halden boomed, grinning widely as he strode forward and straddled the bike, kicking it to life with a roar that shook the rafters. "The sight of you is ever a salve for a fatigued soul. Let us race the sun's fleeting light!"

And with that rider and vehicle thundered off toward the city proper, leaving home and business behind to pursue the noble act of protecting those who couldn't protect themselves. It turned out to be a very boring evening of watching very strange people dance to entreat their would-be alien saviors, but at least they were safe. Halden returned home much later to reheat his abandoned dinner, shaking his head while he waited.

"Strange fools," he muttered.