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 Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 3:22 pm
[Well, I was thinking about that for a while now, but the dialog seemed too awkward. Even guys have times where they feel it just doesn't fit, although I'm just being reserved right now. Just you wait though, I was leading to up to something.]
Umi brushed his hair back, waiting for Blakely to get ready. They weren't going far though, but there was still a chance they would meet up with other traceurs, for something that was very important to Umi, it was also extremely popular with newer traceurs after hearing the story behind it. He ignored Blakely's previous question, in truth he didn't know what he felt about being a traceur; officially, everyone knew he quit being a traceur, but even in that subject he didn't feel like he actually quit, he was even more involved than he used to be. So when the question came up, he couldn't find an answer for himself, it was a reflex for Umi to hide his feelings. "Piper huh? I doubt anyone there would care, as long as you're a traceur," Umi chuckled at the thought that she was so worried about her identity, "c'mon, it's very close but bring your best running gear."
Umi walked down the hallway, passing the elevator that lead to the main lobby. Instead, he continued down the hallway to the janitor's closet and pressed a security code into a nearby pinpad, from afar it looked like a thermostat. The sound of a large gear rotating shook the floor, and the door to the closet slid open, inside it was an elevator not unlike the one that lead to the lobby. "Come to think about it, I've never seen you run before!" Umi commented, and pushed Blakely gently into the elevator, and pressed a button on the elevator. "Going up!"
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 4:28 pm
 "c'mon, it's very close but bring your best running gear." Once Umi said that comment, Blakely dropped her bag and walked out of the door with him. She looked over her outfit. It wasn’t much of a runner perfect outfit, but it was durable. She was wearing tight white shorts. Those were well, perfect. The black hoodie was perfect too. But her shoes, not to much. Flip-flop styled sandals were ugh. She could run in them, but they had the chance of breaking and such. “Some Traceurs are easily swayed by money. I’ve been ratted out by one before.” Blakely said and walked out into the hall with Umi. When they got in the janitor closet style elevator, it topped the cake. “This place is designed for running isn’t it? It’s quite lovely.” She said while they were on there way up, probably to the roof. Running on the roof was handy sure, but it always irritated her. She was always scared she wouldn’t make the jump and so on. “Are you in shape to run?” Blakely muttered. This guy definably didn’t think very clearly. He just fell off a roof! Goodness, she’d have to make sure he didn’t hurt himself to much tonight.
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 5:39 pm
"Of course I am," Umi replied back with a smile, "this isn't the first time I've fell from a roof, although this is the first time there were pipes." The elevator stopped abruptly, on the eighteenth floor, it was nowhere near the top of the apartment building which spanned thirty floors. "Here we are!" Umi watched the doors slowly open, light seeped into the elevator slowly, the room was brightly lit by fluorescent light-bulbs strewn across the area. "Just be yourself, and you'll be fine," Umi finally commented, referring to her previous statement about other traceurs, "everyone has their reasons, some of us are wanted dead or alive, but all of that is left outside."
The door fully opened, and an audible sound affirmed that it was safe to exit. Inside, the room looks like a giant maze of obstacles and jungle gyms; there were many other traceurs in the room scattered into many small groups, some just chatting, some were sparring or teaching and some were running through the course. The traceurs looked as young as fifteen or sixteen and extended well into the late forties and fifties -- as Umi left the elevator, a few of the groups looked over, but none payed much attention to the two who just entered. "This is one of many gathering spots for traceurs, a good place to get information and jobs, and the perfect place to practice." Umi seemed like he was giving a lecture, "I built this place a year ago, it's an exact replica of the training area that Vulcan trained Ray and I with. This is where I go to let loose, sometimes to think or find someone to talk to." In front of the elevator was a small platform, the only way down was to jump off into a giant cushion that was the entirety of the flooring in the area. Taking a large step, Umi jumped and grabbed onto a lateral pole which extended across a large gap, and dropped down below, "c'mon down!"
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 5:55 pm
“You didn’t see how bad you looked when you fell.” Blakely mumbled more so to herself than him. At least where they ended up wasn’t a roof. In fact, it was in the same building. Hearing Umi’s comment also made her feel a little better, but just a little. She definably was paranoid. Blakely sighed and stepped into the room. “Oh my God.” Blakely breathed, looking around the room. This place was well, amazing. She’d definably be coming down up here more often. Well, that is if she stayed in the town any longer. Blakley walked over to where he jumped down and followed behind them. She landed on the cusion on her feet and scanned the area around. It really looked amazing. If she actually stayed in one place for a long period of time, she’d actually find places like this. Nevertheless, she had to move from city to city so she wouldn’t be shipped back to her father. Whoa, she sounded like a rebellious teen, now didn’t she?
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 6:23 pm
"What, are you worried about me?" Umi caught a bit of her comment as he laid on the giant cushion. His eyes were closed and his listened to the sound of Blakely landing, "don't you ever get tired of running from your father?" Umi knew it was a sensitive topic for Blakely, but an important question nonetheless. He was unfamiliar with the situation, and obviously not his business to interfere with her life, but he felt compelled to continue on the topic. "You know... I wouldn't mind it if you stayed here." Umi spoke, still laying on the cushion with his eyes closed, "if anyone came to get you, I could beat them up for you."
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 6:40 pm
“Maybe I just don’t want an injured boy to take care of?” Blakely of course was terribly worried about him. However, why would she tell him that? She was grinning though, not that he could see. His eyes were closed. Blakely laid down on the cushion also and looked up at the ceiling. “Yea, I’m incredibly tired of running my father.” Blakely mumbled. She hated it. It was annoying and tiring. She didn’t keep up with anyone except Greg (her inside man). But, she never got personal time with anyone. No friends, parties, jokes, or any sorta communication. The only time she got to hang with people were the two-three day stops she managed in cities. Some were very friendly and some were completely rude. She’d been ratted out to many time once people found out who she was also. Running from city to city wasn’t fun. “That’s really sweet Umi. But I don’t know.” Blakely whispered, shocked about his offer. This fella was way too nice for his own good. She didn’t need that. The only guy she allowed to stay in contact with her was Greg. “There’s only one person I stick with, and that’s strictly business.” Blakely whispered. “Though he’s in the city right next to my home one, so I can’t stay there obviously.” Blakely laughed. “But he gets me jobs and does me favors. No one else. That’s the only way I can handle Umi.” Blakely murmured. She was talking too much. Blakely sat up, pulled her knees up to her chest, and wrapped her arms around them.
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 7:28 pm
"I see..." Umi opened his eyes, ignoring the bright lighting. He stood up and stretched his arms and legs like he was preparing for something. Other traceurs clued into Umi being in the room, when he got up to stretch, they knew he was ready to start running. He wasn't the greatest runner out there, but certainly one of the top few, and also the most wild in terms of style. Many traceurs-in-training liked to watch Umi and use him as a reference. He had uncanny sense when it came to running, and it seemed like he ran like he already had a set path, no guessing games -- to him, there were possible and impossible jumps and didn't believe that there was an in between. "I guess it all boils down to..." Umi tapped Blakely's shoulder, and began running forward, "Tag! You're it!"
He increased his speed, and wall jumped to a platform above Blakely. "C'mon, you gotta have faster reflexes than that!"
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 7:39 pm
“Hey!” Blakely yelled out and started running ahead of Umi, who had a wonderful head start. She started running after him, increasing her speed to match his. Of course, he was so much faster. “I think you have to announce you wanted to play tag here, you so got a head start.” Blakely said while slightly laughing. She then put her mind to caching him. ‘He shouldn’t be running and stuff, he could open a cut.” Blakely thought as she jumped up onto the platform and almost caught up to him. Of course, when she almost touched him, she tripped on some random object and fell flat on her face. “Owh.” She whined and rubbed her nose. However, she was laughing at her own stupidity during this. “I think ima blame you for that one.” She called as she got up, ready to chase after him again.
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Posted: Sun Dec 27, 2009 9:12 pm
"Hmm... I don't remember those rules!" Umi jumped back, as Blakely tripped. He turned around and jumped onto a hanging chain, swinging to the other side. He obviously had the advantage here, he knew the course like the back of his hand. Other traceurs started watching, some wanting to join in the fun. Umi could recognize a lot of familiars in the group, many of them were Ray's students. Although, they were in high spirits, but they didn't know that Ray was now gone. He hoped he wouldn't have been the one to break the sad news, but it seemed like he had to eventually. He ran down the pathway, leaping across the area where people usually trained how fast they could shimmy against the wall.
"Oh! You seem to be having fun!" Vulcan stepped into the room, carrying a bowl of leftover spaghetti. He sat down next to a few traceurs who seemed to have no clue who he was.
"Hey Vulcan! Where did you go?" Umi replied, "looks like you found dinner."
"Just took a stroll, met up with some old friends." Vulcan continued to eat his meal, a small group of traceurs started gathering around him after hearing his name. Mostly, it was the younger kids, most of the older runners had seen Vulcan before, but the kids only heard of the stories. Stories about how he singlehandedly created the largest strike against the CPF forces, it was unsuccessful, but nonetheless impressive. Umi was distracted by the a key word in Vulcan's reply, usually when Vulcan replied 'stroll' it meant that he had something important to discuss with Umi, and it generally led to more trouble for Umi to deal with.
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Posted: Mon Dec 28, 2009 11:25 am
Blakely started running towards Umi, who was now slightly distracted by Vulcan’s comment. She then noticed a platform right over Umi’s head that she could use to jump down right in front of him. ‘Perfect.’ She thought and began increasing her speed so she could make the jump. When she jumped up there, she ran across the platform and jumped down right in front of Umi. “Your it.” Blakely mouthed and tapped Umi on the shoulder. She then quickly ran the other direction where Vulcan was and plopped down next to him. “Hey gramps, like the food?” Blakely asked, and peered over at Umi. “Vulcan is declared safe zone.” She called out and looked back at Vulcan. “He decided to play tag, although he’s a total cheater.” Blakely giggled and leaned her head on Vulcan’s shoulder. “From the look on Umi’s face I suppose you ‘taking a stroll’ isn’t a good thing?” Blakely accused with a raised brow. She felt so comfortable around Vulcan.
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Posted: Tue Dec 29, 2009 6:19 pm
"Ah, you see it painted on his face as well?" Vulcan has an unusual smile on his face, like he was a statue and it was molded that way. Umi had the urge to sigh deeply, but after Blakely tagged him, other traceurs gathered around him and tried to gain his attention. They were mostly asking questions about Vulcan, but some serious traceurs were asking him questions about running. Vulcan seemed to have no problems ignoring the rest of the traceurs in the room, focusing on his dinner completely. "Well, it's not necessarily a bad thing, but Umi has changed it's meaning in his mind as a 'problem he has to deal with'. This time, it's not so bad, care to join Umi and I for a moonlight stroll later?"
Umi knew immediately what he was talking about, a few other traceurs in the room clued in as well. The majority of the traceurs in the room had focused their attention towards Vulcan, but stayed in their respective groups. Only the seasoned veterans knew what was happening tonight, the annual 'Underground Meeting' between the collective of traceurs and what is now known as the Council was tonight. Usually, representatives from all over the country gathered to discuss important topics about the rebellion. Generally, it ended up being mindless bickering about the respective problems in each city, so Umi avoided them like the plague; he was no longer required to go, since he was no longer a representative as a traceur. Ray was the one who represented Vulcan's group since he had gone missing but wasn't necessary since Vulcan's movement had all but disappeared.
In the city, each traceur was separated by groups depending which handler or group of handlers they were affiliated with, it was sort of like a private investigator's office, but for package delivery. The Council consisted of the founding fathers of the running scene, along with the leaders of the largest and most active group in the city. Vulcan was part of the council, and formally, Senator Sophia Bard, his wife.
-------
The dust settled, and two highly trained German Shepards returned to the group of CPF officers. One immediately noticing Asuka and Senator Bard, and sat down enthusiastically next to the two who were still crouched behind cover. "It looks like they got away," an officer announced, reloading his automatic rifle, "we got four of them though."
"Good job, team." Sophia stood up, brushing the dirt off of her dress skirt. "Knowing Hessler, this was a planned withdrawal, so we need to take this time to regroup."
"Yes, ma'am."
"Have the team regroup at the security office ahead, make sure you divide up on ammo. The battle has only started."
"Right away, it seems HQ has been taken, but from what I hear, the bulk of the CPF force is still intact."
"Round up and forces in the city, and refit them with SWAT gear. Also, bring Dr. Mobius to the security office, we need some information from him."
The small group of CPF officers headed forward, one of the men handed Sophia a new pistol and handed Asuka a few clips for his WA2000. Sophia had a feeling that there were many troubles ahead, and the feeling that she wasn't qualified to lead the men. However, it was all on her shoulders now and all she could do is try her best.
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Posted: Tue Dec 29, 2009 8:53 pm
Blakely looked over at Umi, giggling as other Traceurs surrounded around him. “I think that he should be dealing with any problems right now, he should be lying in his bed resting. I wouldn’t be surprised if he opened up a cut and I have to change his bandages when we get home.” Blakely stated while trying to glare at Umi. Overall, she was failing epically. “hmm, maybe I will.” Blakely agreed. It couldn’t have been too bad, although Umi’s face seemed to say it was. Then again, Vulcan seemed to stress Umi out a lot. “I think your bad for Umi’s health Vulcan. He seems to get stressed when you mention almost anything.” Blakely noted. She was joking, because it seemed as if Umi loved Vulcan in the grammpy type way. Although, she had seen him tense up quite frequently when Vulcan said things. It was somewhat funny, like Umi though he had to protect Vulcan. It must have been nice to have someone like that.Of course, thought like that caused Blakely’s throat to tighten. Therefore, she closed her eyes and pulled her knees up to her chest. She was ready to head back to Umi’s now. That way she could call Greg or something. “Hey, Ima head back to the apartment. Make sure Umi doesn’t do anything to reckless, he seems to forget he fell off a roof not to long ago.” Blakely informed Vulcan and walked towards the Janitor closet style elevator. She walked in and clicked the ‘going down’ button. Might as well get started on the dishes from dinner, or packing her bags to leave town.
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Posted: Thu Dec 31, 2009 12:42 pm
Asuka accepted the extra clips, he had a feeling they would be needed soon. Looking around the debris of the former office, Asuka was pleased to find a discarded messenger bag, probably belonging to one of the workers here. Let's hope he won't be needing it anymore, Asuka thought as he emptied out the contents. Asuka was relieved to find nothing seemingly valuable within the small bag. He placed his new rounds into the bag, before slinging it onto his right shoulder. His left was occupied with the strap of his WA2000. Asuka decided it was best to have his firearm ready at all times, he didn't bother to dismantle it.
Asuka was tired now. The attack had come with such abruptness and intensity, no one would've saw it coming. Now, as the adrenaline was starting to drain away, Asuka couldn't help but yawn. After a small stretch, Asuka approached Ms. Bard. She was the commanding officer now, and that came with its own huge load of stress and responsibility.
"Are we going to see that Doctor now, Ms Bard? He would be a huge help to us, especially if Hessler really intends to attack us again," Asuka asked.
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Posted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 5:13 pm
[Sorry, last minute business trip before the New Years, so I didn't have time to post a reply.]
"I think that's the end of it here," Sophia holstered her new pistol, continuing down the hallway with the rest of the CPF officers. She didn't know what she could do next, but she figured she needed a sizable force to retaliate against Hessler. Retaliate? I don't even know where he is to begin with. "Yes, I believe speaking with the doctor will be beneficial, since he had been employed under Hessler's services for the past few years. However, I don't know whether or not his information is trustworthy, even I, the head of intelligence have never heard of him." She pulled along the German Shepard that followed alongside her with a steel chain, the dog looked quite vicious and frankly, it frightened her. Without the K-9 she probably wouldn't have lasted that last battle so she was winning to bear with it. She hated dogs, but they always seemed to like her.
CPF headquarters had been taken, so there was no one to guide the outer districts into the downtown area. The majority of the CPF force was dormant during the time of the assault, they were successful in retaking this branch, but she wasn't sure if any other branch was attacked. Sophia had many variables running through her head, she knew how Hessler operated, but it still seemed to perfect even for him. What she did know, is that she needed to prioritize in rallying up the rest of the force; finding Hessler was the second part, and the third, making sense of the whole mess. She couldn't afford another failure, she was deceived by Hessler's impromptu attack on the Parliament building yesterday, and many CPF officers lost their lives trying to retake a single building. His plan involved thinning out the CPF force, then unleashing a full frontal attack on the core CPF branches, what confused her was the 'reason' -- she couldn't think of any particular reason for the attack, it didn't seem like he wanted to take over the city, otherwise he would have unleashed his full force yesterday at the Parliament building, possibly destroying all CPF in the city with his military strength. "Get ready, Asuka, it seems we're in for a long day."
---------
"So, I guess tonight will be my glorious return?" Umi shrugged his shoulders, and jumped off the platform to where Vulcan was sitting. He honestly didn't want to be bothered with any more trouble, but knew there was a reason for him to attend today's meeting specifically. Especially with Umi's encounter with unknown assailants earlier today, he knew Vulcan was hiding something. "Don't I get a say in the matter?"
"Well, I don't think you should miss it, I mean, you're an important speaker for today."
"(Sigh..) I thought so."
"Oh don't be such a baby, it'll give you some good information about what you're 'looking' for."
Vulcan insinuated something Umi had been curious for years. He had tried to piece together the events which occurred during the first riot many years ago, but always failed because something just didn't match up. The traceurs should have won the battle, but was instantly wiped out due to a man named Nathan Hessler. He had worked alongside his best friend and brother-like figure Ray trying to figure it out. The only one who knew the truth was Vulcan and Hessler. During the years which Vulcan had spent recovering, Umi noticed a change in Ray's behavior, Umi figured that Ray knew the truth, but wouldn't tell Umi any details, only this one last message: "There's nothing out there." Which Umi thought of millions of possibilities of what the answer could be, but couldn't figure it out -- he tried searching through history books, but information in the city was limited to the past fifty or so years. "Alright, I'm in, but this better be good."
"Great, we leave soon, so get ready."
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