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 Posted: Wed Jun 07, 2006 12:18 am
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Posted: Wed Jun 07, 2006 5:51 pm
Confessions ((Er.. ignore the times posted by the names ^^; )) Rex (9:38:33 AM): After a nice dinner in the cafeteria and a warm shower in his duplex, Rex made his way to Antony's house through the dark as he promised. It was another clear summer night and he wanted to get some time to catch up with Antony and how she'd been. Last night she seemed happy enough. Rex approached the door at her duplex and knocked politely, hoping it wasn't too late for his visit. Rex (9:40:41 AM): *Tonight she seemed Antony (9:42:00 AM): Antony too had showered, but had opted to stay in and eat some food stolen from the cafeteria instead of actually go out to eat. Her leg was too sore to do that. In fact, when Rex knocked, Antony was sitting on the couch working on a rather complicated tribal-esque design in her sketch book while her left ankle was submerged in a bucket of ice water. Grunting, she sniffed towards the door gingerly, and against her better she called out that the door was unlocked. Rex (9:43:59 AM): Rex peeked his head inside and glanced around, spying the squirrel woman. "Hey," He took a few steps in and closed the door behind him gently, "You okay?" Antony (9:47:00 AM): "Yeah, just icing," she replied, waving it off and motioning him into the living room area. "Don't worry about me, I'm a big girl," Antony jested moments later. It was no surprise that she was simply in a tank top and a pair of clean, rolled down boxers. wherebemepants (9:52:01 AM): Rex didn't know that she'd broken her leg and had just gotten the cast off recently, but shrugged it off as she wanted and walked over to the couch. He'd changed from his shorts and undershirt from the soccer match into a different pair of khakis and a fit t-shirt. Rex took his seat and eyed the tribal design on the sketch pad next to him, "That's pretty good!" He complimented. Rex liked patterns like that, hence his tattoos. "Listen, I'm sorry about pinning you down out there. I just didn't want more people to get hurt." He sighed and shuffled his feet along her carpet. Antony (9:59:11 AM): "Thanks. It'd look better on skin though..." She frowned, eyeing it for a moment before pushing her sketch book away, pencil being returned to the table. Once again, she waved off the apology. "No harm, no foul," the squirrel woman said simply, glancing over to Rex. "I know I have a temper, among other things. Though, I had always invisioned getting pinned down by you happening for an entirely different reason." She chuckled, smirking lightly in his direction. It was hard to tell if she was serious or joking, though it was probably a bit of both. wherebemepants (10:03:47 AM): Rex knew what she was talking about when she said "on skin" but it still gave him the chills. When it was put like that it seemed slightly morbid. Though these thoughts were washed away rather quickly with her next comment. Yes, he knew what she was hinting at, but he thought it as a joke. In the end he just said laughed aloud and said, "Quite frankly, I have no idea how to respond to that." Antony (10:08:14 AM): She laughed softly, glancing up at a nearby clock before carefully easing her leg out of the ice bath. Her pale skin contrasted sharply with the reddened leg that had been underwater. "Respond however you want." wherebemepants (10:09:59 AM): Rex sat there in silence and tried to think of something to say. There was a pause. Just a dead stop in the conversation of Rex trying to think of a comeback... ... Forget it, "So how have you changes been? Not as bad as you thought they'd be?" Antony (10:15:32 AM): "Just as I had thought they would be, sent a couple people running, someone tried to make me their dinner, which led to me breaking my leg, and then the whole, not feeling like myself anymore. The usual." She commented in an indifferent voice, though it was obvious she was bitter about all of it. Antony missed her old eyes, being not hairy, and most of all, she missed her tattoos. wherebemepants (10:20:42 AM): Rex was lucky enough to have not sent anyone screaming, unless you count Emerwyn that one time. But otherwise his changes had been accepted overall. Maybe it was because he was a top predator and not an overgrown albino rodent. Rex inquired, "Wait, you broke your leg? And you played soccer on it?" Hew knew something had happened to her leg because it was there in a bucket of ice, but he figured that he just landed on it wrong at some point of the game or it got tweaked in the fight. Who would've hurt Antony? Antony (10:23:29 AM): "Like over a month ago, got out of the cast several weeks prior." It wasn't that big of a deal to her, and she was going to make sure not to name names. "I got chased up a tree by someone post transformation and fell. Apparently I am snack food to many of the islanders." And, to her, that didn't seem to suite her personality at all. wherebemepants (10:27:02 AM): Rex nodded in understanding, the changes are so full of emotion and new instinct it's hard not to go off your rocker. And if Rex was remembering right, this wasn't the first time Antony had been attacked by someone after a change. Maybe she just had bad luck. "Well I'm glad you're okay now. And nice playin' out there on the field today! Especially with that healing leg of yours, we totally schooled them all." Rex chuckled and ran his hands through his hair as if to stay suave. Antony (10:30:47 AM): "We should totally play some football sometime, or even better, dodgeball." Her muzzle broke out into a grin as if she were plotting something evil. Afterall, contact sports were oh so much more fun. "Though, it'd be nice if we could get the staff to build a sort of indoor gym since so many of us are furry, and you know... We're on a bloody tropical island." wherebemepants (10:35:36 AM): A wiley smile creaked Rex's lips contact sports were fuuun. "Football or dodgeball would be such a blast; I used to play lacrosse." He grinned evilly; ready to take on any competitor. "You know, I was just thinking about the same thing a few weeks ago. And when I was walking through the village I found that they actually built one just for us! You should go check it out, there's some nice equipment in there." He was so thankful that there was the workout room now, it certainly made it easier to stay in shape. Antony (10:39:30 AM): "Lacrosse huh?" Well that explained some things, and she simply grinned. At his next comment Antony nodded, "Yeah, I've been using that for PT, but I'm talking like an open gym like all high schools have. Maybe even an indoor pool so we can do laps." With people like Billy destined for the lake, she wasn't so keen on doing laps there. Antony (10:43:40 AM): ((brb, going to make lunch.)) wherebemepants (10:44:37 AM): "Yup, I do all sorts of sports. Though they're mostly categorized as extreme sports or something like that. Rock climbing, wind surfing, snowboarding, lacrosse. I even did a bit of gymnastics." Rex missed those days. He blinked in confusion for a bit then said, "Oh! Like with basketball courts and stuff! I understand; got lost." He chuckled and blushed, "That would be nice. And a hot tub! Ooh, now there's something I wouldn't mind getting." He loved nothing than a long soak with some friends, but you couldn't really do that in a bath tub. Antony (10:52:21 AM): "I used to surf, but I haven't tried it out again since my last change," she said sadly, motioning towards her board propped up in the corner. "Likewise I was good at skate and snowboarding, but rarely did the latter because of funds." It wasn't that different from surfing afterall, just changes in medium. "Ohh, a hot tub," she practically purred, oh how she had missed being able to soak in one of those. "That would be pretty damn sweet... Then they'd just have to start serving international cuisine and I'd be set for a good while." Rex (10:57:12 AM): Rex wasn't rich in the least bit, but his highschool certainly wasn't lacking in the funds. He took backcountry ski trips every winter and grew to love the sports greatly! But he'd never be able to afford a trip on his own. Rex wasn't complaining about the food in the cafeteria, but a little cariety every now and then never hurt anyone. Rex loved to have different foods of all types and flavors, though the lion's hunger for extremely rare meat was insatiable. "They've been doing alot of construction recently, I'll have to take a looksee at what other new stuff has popped up." Rex (10:59:26 AM): *variety Antony (10:59:35 AM): "Probably more duplexes," she stated gravely, shaking her head somewhat, "Seems the amount of people has nearly doubled since I came here." They obviously weren't stopping bringing in new subjects anytime soon. amounts of duplexes was rediculous! How many more people were going to end up losing their lives to this island? He sighed and said, "Well, while that means more people stuck on this place... it also means more company for us!" He knew it sounded selfish and mean but it was true. Their little community was small and had rather slim pickings for friends and enemies, but with more people that meant that there was a higher chance of having someone to make him happy. Rex had some weird philosophies. Antony (11:10:51 AM): Antony simply shrugged, not really knowing how to reply to such a statement. Instead, she let her eyes fall on the ring on his finger. "What do you think the chances are of someone we know getting brought to the island." It sure would be nice to see her father again, or even Owl, nevermind how selfish it'd be. In the end, she knew that seeing them again would mean them being doomed to a life where humanity and sense of self was ultimately lost. Rex (3:26:14 PM): Rex drummed his fingers, unaware that that was the place where Antony's eyes had landed. "Y'know, I don't know. I think that most people met on the island, didn't they? Like Lauren and Nita or Ambrose and Angelina. I think that the only way someone you knew could get to the island was if they came with you." Rex didn't know about how Angelina really came to the island looking to be with Ambrose again, but he spoke with what conclusions he could draw himself. Though Rex knew that no one he knew back home could end up here. There wasn't anyone who cared for him enough to try and find him. Antony (3:41:24 PM): "Ambrose and Angelina are from before the island I think..." She trailed off, frowning somewhat. Angelina bothered her, but then again, it wasn't hard for a female to annoy Antony. "Wait, how many people are 'dating' on the island anyways?" Just because she wasn't big on dating herself didn't mean she couldn't gossip about the people who did. Rex (3:43:59 PM): "Ambrose and Angelina, Lauren and Nita, Avery and Tim," Rex listed, "Uhm... They're all that I know. But there could be more." Rex shrugged. There were so many people on the island and he hadn't met the most of them. It was quite a shame, really. Antony (3:45:55 PM): "I know Kaveri had sex with Jamal, and that Awen and Sabin were having little 'sleepovers' during the Aubrey Killer Hunt that went on a while back." She too had a feeling that there were more couples, but Antony really didn't care that much about the gossip. Rex (3:50:34 PM): Rex only knew of Kaveri from playing soccer earlier, but he'd never met her before. Jamal was also a reoccuring name throughout the island, though Rex had yet to run into him. He was surprised to hear Awen was dating what he could assume was a labtech. His eyes grew wide in surprise, "I hadn't heard of either of those couples." He had to laugh at himself inwardly, gossiping like a middle schooler. Antony (3:53:08 PM): "Yeah, Sabin's the one who pulls all the pranks with Joli if you've heard of her. Tall guy with long white hair. Ran into him when he was locked out." Antony explained, keeping her tone rather conversational despite her rumor spreading. Rex (3:55:58 PM): He'd met Joli before, who could forget someone with a name like that? Rex nodded and sunk farther into the couch, his energy was running low as it was late and lions tend to sleep alot. Though he made sure to stay awake and conversational with the squirrel girl. "What about you? Any guys got your heart?" Antony (3:58:41 PM): "I don't let people play with my heart anymore, so no." She said a little sharper, standing and picking up the bucket full of water, simply so she had an excuse to hide her ' Antony (3:58:58 PM): weak' expression. Rex (4:02:11 PM): Her quick and sharp answer grabbed Rex's attention. He remembered that she didn't exactly like to talk about her past too much, she must've had a pretty hard life back home. He leaned forward with a sigh and said, "I don't know if I'm ready to move on yet. But I don't want to be alone the rest of my life." Antony (4:06:21 PM): Antony had made her way into the bathroom to dump the bucket out in the shower, this way he couldn't see her face and read her like a book. "Some scars run deep," she commented just loud enough for him to hear, remembering Rex's I Never statement a while ago. "Besides," she said as she walked back to him and the couch, "You'll never be alone if you have friends." And sex, she thought to herself. Rex (4:13:19 PM): "I know, I know. And my friends here on the island will always be here, because... well, where else would they go?" He chuckled and sighed as his smile disappeared once again, "But I can't contain the need to have someone to hold and love with my heart." Goly, did I just say that? Sap City... He spoke a bit louder when she was in the bathroom, but lowered her voice when she walked back in. How good was a squirrel's hearing, anyway? Rex (4:13:55 PM): He flicked at his ring absently once again... Antony (4:20:02 PM): "No offense, but you sound like a girl," Antony quipped, laughing uneasily. "I used to believe in that s**t back in High School, but after..." She looked as if she were fighting internally with herself for a moment before she looked away and coughed, "Just... I stopped dating. I had a lot of guy friends, and what I had with them was better than any relationship in my book. It's just not worth the risk personally." The squirrel woman noticed his ring flicking but said nothing. If he wanted to talk, then he could. "I can listen if you want, or if you ever need physical comfort." The offer was genuine. He had helped her before, and now she had a chance to return the favor. Rex (4:30:49 PM): Rex laughed and allowed his eyes to rest on the coffee table in front of them. "I know, I know. But it's true." He said simply; staring off spacily. "It's just... I had a fiance a few years ago back home, Julie. And..." He choked on his words but tried to stay strong. He promised he'd stay strong. "She died a week before our wedding." It was still a really a tough topic for him to talk about; he clammed himself up for ages when it happened. He looked up, red in the face and pushing back the tears, and forced a laugh. A giant lion crying about a girl, he must've looked like an idiot. "I really loved her..." Rex swallowed and sighed, Don't break down.Antony (4:37:31 PM): She died. Suddenly everything clicked into place, the ring he still wore, albiet on the 'wrong' hand, among other things. Before she knew what she was doing, she had sat down next to him and pulled him against her in a comforting, almost protective, motion. He, like her father, had found someone to love completely and had lost her, but unlike her father, there was no child, no marriage, no real hope it seemed. Not exactly knowing the best way to comfort him, Antony simply pressed a kiss to his temple and held him. "I won't judge you," she murmured, referring to the tears she knew he was struggling to hold back. Rex (4:44:33 PM): Rex sniffed in hand as he was pulled closer to Antony, he felt rediculous. A grown man weeping like a baby. He pushed the tears down farther, though that caused another choking sigh to emerge from his chest. He groaned and leaned in closer to the woman. Of all the times to cry. Weak. He rested his head on her torso as a stern expression came to his face. "Thanks..." He said sincerely as Antony held him close. His tail flicked as his emotions grew even higher; why couldn't he just move on? Antony (4:49:52 PM): "Some scars never fully heal," she repeated softly, letting her fingertips run through his fur. "My mom died when she had me, and my father never really moved on... Because he had me..." Trailing off, she took a deep breath before speaking again, "He gave me her name too... Antoinette..." Rex (4:57:01 PM): "Heh, my parents..." Rex shook his head back and forth as if to disagree with something, thoguh he didn't say any more. He didn't want them interfering with his memory of Julie. Why should he blend the good with the bad? Rex sat up and wiped his eyes, wiping a tear that had miraculously escaped. He huffed a sigh and allowed the welled up red in his face to drain to its normal color. He suddenly sighed loudly and said, "Ah! I needed that." Rex forced another smile as he tried to act like he wasn't such a wimp. Antony (5:02:02 PM): Antony blinked at him when he acted as if he had just had what the womenfolk called 'a good cry,' when all that had happen was the loss of one salty droplet. Men were weird sometimes, but she wasn't about to disagree with his statement. "Bottling everything up isn't good for you," she commented simply, keeping her face concerned but not pitying, "I mean, I do it too, which doesn't exactly mix well with my lovely temper, but that's a... Ah, negative quirk of mine." Rex (5:06:04 PM): "I know it's bad to keep emotions pent up,and it's been piling up pretty high inside me for a while. But that was more releasing than you think." He chuckled and blinked his eyes tiredly. He was glad that was over with. Antony (5:09:52 PM): "If you say so," she said, shaking her head slightly as a light smile formed over her lips as she noticed his tired motion. "Want to catnap here tonight?" Antony asked, grin widening in hopes of bringing up the mood somewhat. "You look about ready to pass out here." Rex (5:15:04 PM): "Are you sure? That'd be great..." His duplex wasn't more than a minute's walk away, but he needed someone for comfort now that he had that little 'secret' off of his chest. He stood up and stretched his muscluar arms far above his head. Rex's jaw dropped into a yawn as a long tongue unfurled between his long white canines. He blinked his eyes drearily and said, "Where do you want me to crash?" Antony (5:18:12 PM): "You can sleep with me or the couch, whichever you prefer," she replied, the squirrel inside her eyeing his canines warily, on the verge of freaking out, but Antony silenced the silly rodent instincts that repeatedly informed her she was catfood. "But I must warn you," Antony said all too seriously, "I sleep ENTIRELY naked." It was obvious she was kidding. She only slept like that after sex, of course. Rex (5:22:10 PM): "Hey, your house, your hospitality, your decision. Place me wherever you'd like." Rex was just about ready to lay down in place and sleep on the floor, but a bed would be more comfortable. Antony (5:24:18 PM): "The bed's open," she simply stated, not about to force him into sleeping with her if he really didn't want to, and before he could argue again, she stood and made her way into the bedroom, pulling off her tank as she went. At least she was wearing a bra. Rex (5:28:02 PM): "Mkay." Rex said lazily and wandered clunkily in to the bedroom. He took off his shirt and pants, left only in his underwear, then flopped into the bed. Yeah, she saw Antony in her skivvies, but he was far too tired to get excited about it. He through back the sheets and crawled in, then patted the other side of the bed invitingly for Antony to join him. Antony (5:31:39 PM): Antony pushed down the boxers she was wearing and stepped out of them, kicking them into the dirty laundry basket before making her way to join Rex. Careful of her tails, she slid under the covers, on her side with her back to him, letting a few of the longer tails flick playfully at his nose. "Rearrange me if you want," she murmured through a yawn. Rex (5:38:32 PM): Rex giggled and swatted at her tails with a playful paw, then scooted closer to the woman and extended his arm over her body. "This works." He stated, now he had that body to hold. Before long, his eyelids grew too heavy and he dozed off into a needed sleep. Antony (5:40:01 PM): Once 'positioned,' she leaned back into him, letting her tails drape between and on top of their legs. Soon, she too was asleep, the days activities catching up with her.
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Posted: Sat Jun 10, 2006 11:15 pm
A Turn for the Worse? Nita MacNeal Nita sat in her usual spot in the corner of the cafeteria with a bowl of pasta in front of her. She had been feeling rather cranky for the past few days, and the nitemares she kept having certainly weren't helping. Her head felt too light and her cheeks tingled; Nita chalked it up to her less-than-perfect sleep. She rubbed the back of her neck and stabbed at a noodle with her fork. Rex Vadnais Rex's tail swished behind the man as he came into the cafeteria with an afternoon spring in his step and a toothy grin smacked on his face. He could feel that this was going to be a good day. He entered the large room and spied the little red blob that was Nita in the corner. He grabbed his plate full of a variety of meat then plopped down at the table without asking. Did friends need to ask? "Well good afternoon, li'l lady!" He smiled warmly, though it was washed away as he realized she wasn't in the best of moods. Nita MacNeal Nita jumped in her seat, her fork clattering loudly on the table. She had been so out of it that she hadn't even noticed Rex approaching. In spite of her bad mood, she attempted a smile. Rex was a good guy and tended to cheer her up. "Oh hey, Rex," she said, recovering her fork and poking at the noodles with considerably less force. "How've you been? I saw you playing soccer the other night." Nita MacNeal Nita jumped in her seat, her fork clattering loudly on the table. She had been so out of it that she hadn't even noticed Rex approaching. In spite of her bad mood, she attempted a smile. Rex was a good guy and tended to cheer her up. "Oh hey, Rex," she said, recovering her fork and poking at the noodles with considerably less force. "How've you been? I saw you playing soccer the other night." Nita MacNeal "It's okay, I was kinda spaced out," Nita explained, taking a few more quick neat bites of pasta. She realized she had forgotten to get a drink for herself so she indicated to Rex that she'd be back in a minute. Nita returned with several cans of Diet Coke; presumably most of them would be taken back to her duplex. She popped the top off of one and sipped. Her throat cleared, she continued, "Nah, I'm not big on sports, and I wasn't feeling too great anyway. It was fun to watch though; Amaya makes a darn good goalie!" Even if she had been rooting for the other team, since Lauren was on it, it was Rex sitting across from her and he'd been on the winning team. Rex Vadnais Rex's blue eyes grew substantially bigger when she returned with several cans of diet coke, "Whoa there, throwing a party? Looks like your going to need a few more guests to down those buggers." She must be pretty thirsty.
"Aww, come on. Who doesn't love a rowdy game of soccer! There's nothing more fun than going out there and roughin' it up a bit." He growled in the name of competition; the guy could get pumped easily. "And yeah, Amaya was great! Showed that Thom guy what's what! ...Even though I know that he didn't mean anything by it." He shuffled the floor with his feet a little, then shoved his entire flank in his mouth and downed it easily. Nita MacNeal Nita pulled a face. "I keep my fridge stocked for when I don't feel like going out," she explained. In fact, the soccer game several nights ago had been the only time Nita had really been 'out' in nearly a week. She raised a brow, amused by Rex' enthusiasm. "Actually, I kind of felt like I was going to pass out, so I figured sitting out was a much better plan..." Shrugging, Nita shook her head. "What did Thom say, anyway? I couldn't really hear conversation from where I was sitting, and at the end, when Antony punched him, Lauren and I left." Rex Vadnais "Passing out? Aww, I'm sorry. Did you take something for it? Do you still feel bad?"
Rex messed up his face in recollection, "I don' remember his exact words. It was something like how he only wanted to chose people who looked like they could run. And Amaya took offense and shut down because of her... 'little' limb problem." The poor lizard had enough self esteem problems as it was and Thom's comment surely wasn't helping. Rex took another swig of water while his tail swayed gently from his sagging pants. Nita MacNeal "Nothing really I could take. I've got Tylenol and stuff, but that wouldn't do any good." Nita shrugged. "I've just been feeling.. weird." She frowned at her bowl of noodles. "Ah..." she said, in response to Rex' explanation. "I dunno, I mean Lauren and Antony have big feet too, and they can run just fine. Depending on exactly what he said, he could have meant several people." She shrugged again, tucking a stray bit of hair behind her ear. "But I didn't hear, so I dunno." Rex Vadnais "Yeah, if only I could remember the exact wording..." Rex refilled his plate and started anew on a healthy portion of bacon. Who said bacon was a morning only food?!
"So you and Lauren have been getting along?" It was nice to see so many happy couples around, though Rex couldn't help but be jealous occasionally. Nita MacNeal "Ah well," Nita said. Amaya had ended up playing well, so apparently she showed Thom what she could do. As for Antony hitting him... That wasn't any of Nita's business. She sat quietly for a moment, finishing her pasta and staring off into space. Finally a bit of a real smile crossed her lips. "Oh yes. It's funny, I don't see her as much as I'd like. I mean, you'd think we'd be together a lot, considering how small this place is, but I guess it's a good thing. We're going to be here for-" Nita paused, still not quite will to say 'forever.' "A long time," she concluded. Rex Vadnais It was amazing to step back for a moment and realize just how diverse the views and personalities of people on the island. People like Antony obviously hate relationships but love sex. Then you've got Nita who loves another woman with all of her heart. Rex chuckled and said, "A looong time." Then devoured another piece of bacon.
Rex's mind was full of questions that were still unanswered. What were they all going to look like when fully changed? Would the relationships hold even through the difference of species? What would happen to them all in the end? Dying alone on an island without leaving your mark in the world sounded boring, but you had to make the best of it. He sighed in thought. Nita MacNeal "Hmm," Nita murmured. She drank the last of her soda and flicked the can absently with one of her darkened fingernails. In general, the red panda girl tried not to think about her future too much; it was too mind-boggling and just a bit depressing. Not the changing so much, since the transformations themselves didn't bother, but knowing that she was well and truly trapped. Knowing that she was under constant surveillance, and would be for the rest of her life. For her, that was the most awful part, never really being in control of her situation. She sighed, looking across the table at Rex. For some reason, Nita felt she could trust him, even though she had only known him for a couple of months, and she wasn't one to discuss private matters with anyone. "Did you know I'm clinically depressed?" she asked him hesitantly, furrowing her brows. Rex Vadnais Rex was taken aback but the spontaneity of her confession, but answered honestly, "Really? No, I never would have guessed. The only time you've seemed pretty irritable was when I ran into you during that whole attacker thing." This was a pretty obscure thing to say out of the blue, but she figured she had some kind of reason for saying so, "Do you think something is wrong?" He looked into her eyes from across the table and frowned, worried. Nita MacNeal Nita bit her lip and continued staring at her empty soda can. "Yeah. I guess a lot of people never really knew, but I am. I ended up in the hospital for a while my senior year of high school." Her voice was soft but clear enough for Rex to hear without straining too much. Absently, sub-consciously, Nita rubbed a thumb over the pale skin of her forearms. "I've taken anti-depressants since then. I'm mostly okay when I take them, but one time... One time I was dumb and didn't refill the prescription. I ran out of pills and so I didn't take them for a couple of weeks. It was awful," she said simply. "I couldn't function, I couldn't think, I didn't care about anything." A sort of twisted smile quirked her lips. "That's what this feels like. Withdrawal." It's such a simple word, and so often only associated with hard drugs. As in, people need to go through it, to get the drugs out of their system. And after that everything would be better. In Nita's case, it would only get worse. Rex Vadnais Rex listened to her story with intent and shock. Hospitalized?! "Nita... I'm so sorry, I wish that there was something that I could do." He paused and reached across the table for her hand, concerned. "Have the doctors continue to fill out your perscription and everything? If those pills are giving you more help than harm then you should get them as soon as possible!" He didn't know what to say, sometimes it was hard to find the right words to express yourself. Nita MacNeal Nita clutched at his hand, hardly aware of it. "I don't know..." she whispered. I was only supposed to be here for two months, so that's what I brought with me. I'd just run out when I went to see that Dr. Frost lady. She gave me some pills and said it was something the labs had developed for me, to work better with my changes or something." A tear rolled down Nita's cheek and she brushed it away with her free hand. She was cold and could feel the blood pounding in her skull. Rex Vadnais Rex petted at her hand gently and wiped the tear from her cheek with a padded thumb (being wary of his claw by her eye). He tried to speak caringly, "Something probably just went wrong with their formula or something. Half the time I really wonder if the scientists really know what they're doing. I mean, we are experiments, nothing final." Rex shuddered, he didn't mind turning into an animal as long as nothing went wrong. Though he'd just given himself a bit of a scare. "Why don't you phone the labs? Tell them whats up with you." Nita MacNeal "But why wouldn't they test it before giving it to me?" Nita wailed quietly. Then she almost laughed. "Oh, I guess I am the test..." She sniffed and took a few deep breaths. She had to calm down or her headache would get even worse, and if she cried more she'd hyperventilate, which was never fun. "I should call them, I know I should, but I hate having to go to them for help, you know? I didn't ask for anything new, I just want my Zoloft!" Rex Vadnais Rex sighed, trying to find the best way to word his thoughts, "Nita, if these sick people are going to leave us stuck here on some island and turn us into animals, then the least they can do is make sure we're healthy. Without pills that work things will be pretty dang tough!" He tried to be her rock and help convince her to do what was right. His face was dry. "You aren't yourself without them. Go call them and then take a nap, I don't want you feeling this way." Rex's stomach had sunk low and twisted into a pretzel, he couldn't stand to see people in tears. Nita MacNeal "You're right, you're right," Nita repeated, shaking her head and fiddling with the end of a braid. "I hate being like this. It scares me," she said in a small voice, suddenly looking far younger than her twenty-one years. Nita clasped her hands together, forcing herself to stop her fiddling. It was almost harder not to cry with Rex being so nice to her. "Would you walk me back to my duplex? I don't want to fall over on the way there." There was a hint of laughter in her tone, although it was actually quite a valid concern. Rex Vadnais "Oh, sure thing." Rex got up and cleared both their plates to the kitchen, then came back and offered his hand for her to hold through the village to their duplexes. It seemed like even little securities like this could help the girl. Rex would do anything within reason for a friend. "You sure that things will be okay?" He couldn't help but be concerned. Nita MacNeal Nita stood up, a little wobbly, and watched Rex clear away the dishes. It was the first time she'd eaten in the cafeteria and not put away her own dishes. That felt weird, although at least they weren't just leaving them behind. She reached for Rex' hand, leaning against him slightly. "No, I'm not really sure," Nita said quietly. "But I'm hoping, because I can't stand it getting much worse." Rex Vadnais Rex cleared the dishes out of common curtosy and habit. After working at a restaurant for so long he couldn't stand to see a dirtied table.
He held her close as her support; her anchor. And as they approached her duplex he left her with, "Well you know that I'm here for you. Duplex 35 if you ever need help." Rex wanted to do his best in helping poor Nita through her dilema. Nothing terribly productive comes out of the mental state she was in. Nita MacNeal Nita nodded gratefully, attempting a smile again. "Thank you, Rex. Maybe it doesn't seem like a lot, but this really does help." On a whim, she gave the lion-man a brief hug. Pulling away, Nita managed a more sincere smile. "I'm gonna lie down for a bit, and then I'll give them a call." She jerked her head towards the intercom, as if it weren't painfully obvious who "they" were. Rex Vadnais The lion man returned the hug and nodded, "Good, rest should help you alot. It always helps me." But I don't have depression, so I wouldn't know. Rex waved the panda girl off with a smile and said, "Feel better soon, I want my happy Nita back." then took the short walk back to his duplex. Nita MacNeal "Thanks again," Nita said and turned to shut the door. Within moments, she was curled up in her bed. Some rest should help, even if she didn't sleep very deepy-- which she hoped, because with deep sleep came the nitemares.
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Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 6:17 pm
Just Sit Still! It Won't Hurt! Rex Vadnais The door to the workout room swished open silently as Rex peeked his head inside to see if anyone was around. The room was unoccupied and still as the man expected it to be. He only ran into people in this room every now and again, which was odd considering how much time he actually spent in there.
He made his way to the fridge and grabbed a waterbottle, twisting the cap off and taking a swig before he began. As a quick warm up to loosen his bones, Rex did some quick stretching before he began. Quads, abs, lats and biceps. Though not soon after he grabbed a thirty pound weight and went to town with crunches. Thomas Brinley Thom had noticed the workout room in passing a few days earlier and made a mental note to return, but it had slipped his mind between one thing and another. However, on his way to the cafeteria, he had again noticed the room and, deciding food could wait, wandered over and peek inside. He was not disappointed. The array of different machines was more than he was used to, and much more than he needed to keep in shape, what with his soccer and all. But the room was air conditioned, had only one inhabitant at present, and would serve for a good workout before lunch. Waving slightly in greeting to Rex who he recognized from the soccer match, he closed the door behind him and dropped his customary soccer ball on the floor near the door, beginning a series of stretches of his own. "Afternoon. Hope y'don't mind if I'm 'ere too?" Rex Vadnais Rex heaved a couple times as he finished his set and placed the weights back down on the rack in front of him. He spied a man enter through the workout room's door and smiled welcomingly. "Hey, man. Thom is it?" Rex wasn't the greatest with names but all of the shouting from the soccer match had imprinted the name in his mind. "Oh, and I don't care. Help yourself!" Rex stood with his arms at his side to give them a nice little rest before starting on a new set. It was always better to workout with company. "Y'look to be sporting a couple new scales." Rex mentioned off-handedly. Thomas Brinley "Mhm," he replied absently, quickly running through a few more stretches before deciding they were a lost cause and stepping over to a second rack of weights. "You're...Rex, yes?" he attempted, searching his memory. That seemed about right. It was hard to tell who was who given the madness of the soccer game, but there had only been four men, including himself, and he knew two of them. Rex had to be the third. "Scales." Thom wrinkled his nose, turning his back on Rex and picking out a couple of weights. "Lovely, aren't they?" he replied sarcastically. "Just what I always wanted. T'lose my 'air an' start picturin' m' football as dinner." Rex Vadnais Rex smiled but stayed looking straight ahead into the mirror in front of him to keep good posture. "That's right. Rex Vadnais, nice to officially meet you." There was a difference between introducing yourself politely and getting to know someone by pulling a rabid squirrel off of them in a brawl.
"Beh, I don't think there's many people in the world that would ask to have this fate willingly. Like, you look like a cool guy, I bet you had a good life going for you back on the mainland." Of course he did, idiot. He was a professional soccer player. Don't bring up the past. Rex huffed a little, signs of strain showed in the pace of each repetition. "Well, I figure that if you just don't worry about it... things won't seem so bad." His tail swayed gently behind him, also slightly tense from the work his body was doing. "Where y'from?" Thomas Brinley "Thomas Brinley," he countered, cracking a grin. "Though I do prefer Thom." Ah yes, he remembered now. Not only had Rex done acceptionally well playing for Ambrose, but had effectively rescued Thom from Antony--and, he thought, warned him of Kaveri. Damn women. "Good life, I would say, is a superb understatement." His grin faded, and he focused his attention on the weights in either hand. "An' it's hard not t'worry when I'll be losin' the ability t'walk. You're, what, a lion? That, I could live with." Rex Vadnais Rex put the weights down once again with the completion of another set. He sighed, shook his arms, and placed on his hips.
"Not so great back there then? Heh, you're not alone." Rex sighed as memories of his old apartment, job, and co-workers returned to his mind for the first time in several days. Of course there was also the occasional visits to the cemetery. "Wait, just because you're a reptile doesn't necessarily mean that you're a snake... or did someone tell you?" Rex had heard stories of those nasty doctors slipping in their animal at the most inconvenient times. "And yeah, we figure a lion is the only thing I could be. I managed to get off luckier than alot of the others I've met around the island." He shrug and picked up slightly heavier weights for his last few sets. Thomas Brinley "Oh no," he quickly assured Rex, laughing bitterly and finally setting down the weights. "Life back home was wonderful. Mind, just 'ad a flat in London, but I dare say I'm worth a good few million by now. Football pays bloody well as a career, an' you 'ardly take it as a job. Between practices we were pretty much free to our own. Toss in th' occasional rock climbin', parasail," he gestured vaguely at nothing in particular, chuckling. "Ahh, it was fun. But 'ere?" He shook his head, smile fading, then glanced back towards Rex. "Oh, I am." Taking a step closer, he propped one foot up on the rack of weights, jabbing a finger down towards his toes--or lack thereof. "Already goin'. You're damn lucky t'be what y' are." Rex Vadnais Wide-eyed, Rex listened to the story of Thom's previous life. "Wow, well never mind then," He said frankly, "That's pretty amazing. But if you had it so well there then how did you end up on this stupid rock? They trick you? Or was it an accident like me?"
This guy was young, handsome, rich and famous. Rex was... young. Perhaps handsome in the right eyes. But that's about it. He felt so incredibly unaccomplished with his life, and now that he was stuck on the island in the middle of who-knows-where there was no way he could ever make up for lost time. Why wasn't he able to make something out of himself and his life back home? Was he just off on the wrong foot? Was he inches away from success in that stupid restaurant? Or was he simply destined to come here so God never even planned for him to get big to begin with? All of these questions troubled Rex's mind as so many had before them since his arrival on the island. He tried his hardest to look at the positive, stay optimistic, but with a reknown 'football' player here smakcing reality in his face Rex couldn't help but feel a bit put down. Things were incomplete, something was missing.
He sighed again, "Yeah... lucky..." He spaced out, eyes set on Thom's foot even though he wasn't even paying attention to the lack of toes. Thomas Brinley "T' be honest, I'm not completely sure," he sighed, returning his malformed foot to the ground. "As far as I can piece t'gether, there was an accident. Bus wrecked, I think. But I can't remember much of that, an' by th' time I woke I was already 'ere in my duplex. Only 'ad a concussion, got over it in a few days.. Still 'aven't learned what 'appened to th' rest of th' team." He paused, momentarily falling silent. He hadn't thought much on the wreck, really, choosing to shove it from his mind. It couldn't have been that serious if all he received was a concussion, but how would they have been able to pull off his disappearance otherwise? Surely, if he was the only one to perish, his parents--or team--would have demanded a body? If it was bad enough that he may have been unrecognizable, that they could have substituted someone else... He shook his head, shoving the thoughts away, and again sighed. "Y' don't know what you 'ave 'til it's gone." Rex Vadnais This man sure had an interesting life story. What a remarkable life to lead. "That's terrifying! Was the crash that bad? Aren't you worried for your teammates?!" With every team that Rex had been on, the others there with you practically became your family. Your brothers. He could only imagine that degree greatly intensified when it came to professional sports. If Rex was in Thom's situation there would be no way he could stop worrying about his friends.
The last thing Thom said bounced around his head, a phrase he'd heard several times before. You never know what you have until it's gone. He could see how this was quite an applicable statement in Thom's life, but when put to his own things didn't match up. Rex always knew what his parents did was bad, though he was defenseless against their dominance. Almost as if it was an analogy to the island. The labtechs were Rex's new parents, doing bad things on the upfront and keeping the 'children' in a position where nothing could be done. Or Julie, for instance; he loved her, he knew what he had, he realized his fortune with her. Though that all came crashing down around him. It really was a circumstantial phrase. Thomas Brinley "Not really, I only remember a swerve, wasn't much time t'be afraid." He shrugged, taking a seat on a conveniently placed bench. "I've no idea 'ow bad it was, an' I prefer t' think they've made it through just fine an' are presently winnin' th' Cup." A vague memory of his dream from the night he changed floated back, but again he shoved it away. "I s'pose I'll learn f'sure if Duvert ever gets back t'me with a tape." Rex Vadnais He sat down on a work bench across the way from Thom, dabbing his forehead with his shirt and taking a couple more sips from his water bottle before putting it out before him, offering a drink to the Brit.
"Yeah, one of the things I miss alot here on the island is watching things like football and basketball..." He paused, remembering earlier in the conversation, "Wait, did you say you rock climb? I climbed a lot in highschool, our gym had a wall there for us to practice on and everything. I bet if we could get some equipment from the labs there'd be a few good places for a climb on the mountain! If you're ever up for I'm here for yeh. I just love sports like that." Thomas Brinley Thom gladly accepted the water bottle, twisting the cap off and talking a long drink himself before replacing the cap and setting the bottle on the bench beside him. "Was never much of a basketball fan," he replied absently, then blinked, cocking his head to the side. "I did. Never did much in school mind." Grinning, he chuckled softly. "Used t'climb bridges an' whatnot back in highschool t' terrify m' parents. Aaron an' I--" He paused, grin fading, then cleared his throat before continuing. "We switched t'mountains once we could afford t' get there. I'd be 'appy t' head up for a climb if we could get some equipment. Or even if we can't. Give th' doctors a shock t'watch precious subjects climbin' sheer rock, eh?" Rex Vadnais Rex chuckled at the image of the doctors flipping their lid in the labs because one of the subjects was about to kill themself on a rambunctious rock clomb. "Yeah that'll be a real way to give 'em a run for their money. Though knowing the rich psychos we've got running this place I bet they'd get a helicopter out there stat... there's only one way to find out for sure though." He wry and devilish smile curled the lion's black lips. Maybe this could be a bit more fun than he suspected. Thomas Brinley He grinned a reply, scooping up the bottle and taking another sip before replacing the lid and passing it back to Rex. "We'll 'ave t' go soon, 'owever. B'fore m' next change. I'm sure I won't be able t' climb...well after it." He paused, though he didn't seem terribly bothered by the thought. For the time, at least, he had accepted his fate. ...Once it happened, things might play out differently. "Any'ow, f' now I'm goin' to 'ead to th' cafeteria. Th' snake gets cranky if I don't eat." He rolled his eyes, rising to his feet. "Care t' join me?" Rex Vadnais "Yeah, I have no idea how this kitty will do with heights. I think that most lions are used to lowland, like the savannah. Oh well, if I fall at least I know I'll land on my feet." Rex laughed, grabbed his waterbottle and headed for the door. "And some food sounds great. I haven't eaten in a few hours." Thomas Brinley "I know next t'nothin' about snakes," Thom laughed. "I should probably ask exactly what I am just t'look up on what t' expect an' all." Following Rex out the door, he started for the cafeteria, brightening up considerably with the promise of a meal. "Lovely. I 'aven't eaten since yesterday." Rex Vadnais The two walked down the empty halls of the Town Hall until they entered the cafeteria door. "This whole building has sure gotten alot bigger since I've been here." There had been constuction like mad and certainly lots of remodelling had been finished throughout the island. He could only imagine the heaps of cash Moreau laid down to make this place the quality it is.
"I'm sure finding out the exact species of the animal would help you out alot. Thankfully lions are pretty generic. There aren't many, if any, differnet species. They're all just slightly different depending upon where the pride is as a whole. I know that the entertainment room has all sorts of books on just about any animal you can imagine. I bet that's a good place for you to start." Rex couldn't help but wonder how much of his humanity he'd lose. In the end would he just be a completely normal lion with absolutely no memory of being human? Enveloped in his animalistic instincts and left to lead a lonely a prideless life? Sure, he'd developed into quite a catlike being... but so far he'd kept the majority of his own common sense and human knowledge. Only time would tell... Thomas Brinley "One snake's as good as th' next," he replied absently, immediately stepping over to the buffet. Grabbing a tray and a plate, he glanced over the assortment a food...then again looked over the variety, frowning faintly. And quite suddenly, he didn't have much of an appetite. "But I suppose there are some differences. I'll 'ave t'look around th' entertainment room, then. Per'aps I can figure out what I am without contactin' Duvert." Rex Vadnais Rex didn't need to stop to think about what he had a hankerin' for. MEAT was at the top of his list. He bee-lined straight to the carnivore section of the cafeteria and piled his plate high with an array of different meat dishes, humming a happy little tune as he set his plate down at the nearest table and got a drink.
"Yeah, maybe you could just figure out what ind of snake it is by the markings on that tail of yours. Can't be too far off from something in one of those books." He returned to their table, said a quick prayer, then sunk his fangs into a piece of steak. Delicious. Thomas Brinley After a short while of hovering at the buffet, Thom finally fixed himself a plate. As with Rex's, it was composed primarily of meat, though he slipped in a few vegetables as well before retrieving a drink of his own and retreating back to the table. He took a seat across from Rex, who had already begun eating, and, lifting his fork, lazily sliced a hamburger pattie into pieces before stabbing one bite and eyeing it. He was hungry. He was very hungry. But this...wasn't what he wanted. "It's a possibility. I expect they'd pick somethin' relatively well known though, yes? No sense goin' to th' trouble of some rare snake when there're common ones all about an' much easier t' reach." Rex Vadnais Rex washed down his large bite with a sip of juice and gave his two cents on what Thom had speculated. "I dunno... there's alot of animals on the island that you wouldn't exactly expect to see. I mean, yeah, a lion is pretty generic and dull. But Awen is a manta ray, and that Joli chick is a komodo dragon, Nita is a red panda, half of those I wouldn't really imagine to see on this island... or at least not for a while. Not until the labs ran out of ideas for animals to use." He shrugged and took another large bite of his meal, "Not to mention I think it'd be cooler to have a rare or exotic animal. Some of those guys have some seriously weird attribute. Cool, but weird. I mean, you could go around saying 'Well I have the rare and elusive suchandsuch' and everyone would think that you were just so cool because the animal you were turning into is just awesome." He paused. Rex realized he was just sounding like an idiot and ranting again.
"...nevermind." He took another bite of steak and pretended like that never happened. Thomas Brinley "Well, yes an' no," Thom replied, still pondering his untouched bite of meat and surprisingly unphased by Rex's 'rant'. "True, those're more exotic. But everyone's 'eard of 'em, aye? They're not everyday, but they're well know. Meanwhile, there're thousands of different species of snakes, many of which I'm sure next t' no one's 'eard of b'fore. I doubt th' staff'd go to th' trouble of trackin' down somethin' like that when they could grab somethin' more common an' more well known with ease, yes?" Rex Vadnais Rex cleared his throat and sat tall in his seat, recovering his composure before continuing in the conversation. "Ahh, well in that case, yeah, it makes sense. I don't think that the doctors would do anything terribly unheard of... like some weird blind deep-sea crab or something like that. That's just senseless." Rex just ate over his words, hoping that would fill in the empty pauses in his theory since he realized what Thom had been getting at was true all along. Get with it, Rex. WAKE UP! Thomas Brinley He grinned, waving his fork towards Rex in an 'I told you so' manner. "Well there y'go. So, on that note, I should be somethin' fairly obvious if I look in th' right place. Though those markin's aren't all that recognizable... But all th' same. My theory wins." His mind finally elsewhere, he popped the bite of hamburger into his mouth and, on instinct, swallowed it whole. ...Promptly choking as the large bite lodged in his throat, hand dropping his fork and rising instead to hold his neck. Rex Vadnais "Yeah yeah, you win." Rex looked to his plate and mock sighed in defeat. He stared off into his plate to continue the game he was playing, though that caused him to not even notice that the man was choking until his fork clattered to the floor and gasping sounds could be heard from the commotion from across the table. "What th-?"
The realization hit him hard. Thom was choking!
Rex quickly planted one hand on the table and swung his body across as if it were a vault. Those gymnastics days actually came in handy for once. Thinking quickly, he pulled Thom out of his seat, wrapped his arms around Thom's stomach with a balled fist, then pumped his hand up and under into Thom's ribcage. He'd only done the heimlich maneuver a couple times before on some careless friends. Thankfully he knew the proper form, the only problem was would it actually work for him this time around. "Crap, Thom, spit it up!" Thomas Brinley He couldn't breathe. He couldn't breathe. Head bowed slightly as he fought for air, he hardly realized Rex had even moved until the man tugged him out of his chair and attempted to force the bite of hamburger back up his throat. But that was ridiculous, he argued with himself, hand falling from his throat. This piece of meat was absolutely miniscule compared to what he should be eating! Even while common sense told him that Rex was doing best, in the time of desperation the cobra argued differently. Shoving Rex away, he stumbled forward, one hand falling to brace himself against the table while the other returned to his throat as he desperately attempted to swallow. Rex Vadnais "You just don't want to give that thing up, do you?" Giving him water to wash it down wouldn't do the trick judging by how badly the man was choking. Rex would just have to keep at it until the guy hacked it out or passed out. Thankfully the islander's medical office wasn't far away from the cafeteria in the town hall.
The lion inside him was freaking out and in the end only made things worse. In order to make him stop writhing all he wanted to do was snap Thom's neck. The lion pounced with a wild roar, claws barred and flying straight for Thom's tender neck. His paws flew over Thom's shoulders and his body weight nearly caused the two to topple onto the table. With a swift swing of the neck and a rabid look in Rex's eyes he brought his fangs down straight for the jugular--
"NO!" Rex yelled, regaining his self control and shaking the lion's instinct from his mind. He switched his arms from over Thom's shoulders to back under his arms, balled his fist, and gave the heimlich a couple last tough thrusts. Thom's time was running out, and if it didn't work this time... Zachary Bloodstone Zach had walked into the cafeteria almost mechanically. It was habit. Go in, get food, eat it quickly, and leave. Most of the time it was easy to ignore the other people who were in there.
This was not one of those times.
After standing and staring for several moments longer than was considered polite, he inched back toward the door. He could get food later. Much later. He wasn't going to stick around for Rex and the other man's lewd public show.
Quietly, he mumbled, "I, um, I'll leave you two alone." With that, he flung himself out of the cafeteria. Thomas Brinley Several minutes, several seconds; whatever the case, Thom was a fair shade of blue by this time. The cobra was absolutely furious at the interruption to its meal, and likely would have whirled around to strike at the lion in response had not it been half strangled by its own meal. Determined to finish its meal, it tucked its normally pointless arms between its torso and Rex's arms, effectively blocking the attempts to force away the hamburger bite. And then the sounds of someone running and the door slamming distracted it, and in that brief instant Thom's thoughts returned clearly once more. He freed his arms, allowing Rex the ability to work properly, and only seconds later heaved a deep breath as the hamburger piece fell to the floor. Falling still, he allowed himself another few deep breaths, regaining some of his normal color, then chuckled breathlessly. "..'Ave t'remember t'chew next time.." Rex Vadnais Rex fought with Thom for quite some time, "Stop it! I'm saving your life here!" before he got distracted by the random appearance of a certain someone across the room.
That someone had grown copious more scales, regenerated an arm, and gained a beastly tail to match his gruesome horns. Zach. Rex sneered, baring his sharp fangs as the man retreated from the cafeteria like he had retreated from the fight on the beach. That man was a jerk. A wimp. A coward. With Rex's pent up anger he gave Thom one final heave to the stomach, then released his grip as he saw the slimey hunk of hamburger fall to the ground with a splat.
Rex panted, worn from adrenaline and beating the crap out of Thom. "Yeah, chewing is a good idea." He pulled out the seat for Thom to sit down on to regain his breath and Rex pulled up the one next to him. "Sorry if that hurt... but... you could've died... and I don't think that'd be a very nice addition to either of our days." Thomas Brinley Thom gratefully accepted the chair, sinking down on it and reaching over to retrieve his glass of water. Water was water, and water it would always be. It was safe enough. After downing half the glass, he set it back down and waved away Rex's apology, shaking his head. "Perfectly understandable. An' thank you. Good thing y' came along, eh?" He cracked a grin, finally breathing normally once more, and glanced over towards the door. "Did someone else come in?" Rex Vadnais Rex blushed a little, unsure if the man even realized he tried to rip out his throat while poor Thom was choking to death. At least that would've solved the little hamburger problem, now wouldn't it?
"Yeah... Zach walked in. Saw you choking, and walked out. That b-uh..." He stopped himself short of saying the word 'b*****d', Rex only cussed when something really bad happened. Like when Amaya collapsed after changing in the middle of the jungle during a rainstorm, that was a moment worthy of cussing. Not to mention Rex was angry at Zach, but still felt as though he should be the bigger man and appologize to mend their bad blood. Thomas Brinley Zach, Zach... Thom didn't think he had met this 'Zach' yet. "Terribly thoughtful of him, I'm sure," Thom replied dryly, frowning towards the door. Scooping up his glass, he down the rest of the water, then climbed somewhat shakily for his feet. "I'm goin' to 'ead back t' my duplex, I think. Don't 'ave much appetite after that, y'know. Thanks again for your 'elp." Nodding to Rex, he picked up the tray and carried it over to be cleaned, then started for the door. "I'm in duplex 45 if y'need anythin'," he added, then slipped outside and was off. Rex Vadnais "Yeah, I don't really have one either." He, too, came to his feet and cleared his dishes to the kitchen in the back. "I'm in 35 if you ever need any help as well. I'm sure I'll see you around bud." He was tired and just hit his decline from the rush rather quickly. Rex fumbled home to his duplex and flopped on his bed.
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Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 6:27 pm
There Must be Something in the Water Emerwyn Emerwyn was tired. She'd been sleeping outside the past few days, stopping in her own room to clean up every now and again. Overall, however, she'd fully aquired that "Venison au Naturalle" smell. And, she wouldn't admit it to herself, but she was still sick. And her condition was not improving. When she pulled her head up from the cool river, she'd find small, liquid ribbons of scarlet desolving into the water. It wasn't much, but it was there. Sleep was terrible, if it even came. She'd wake in a cold sweat every half hour, adjust herself, and try again, futilly. To try and combat this, Emerwyn would take to the deeper parts of the jungle - and she'd run. It felt so good to get the wind whipping her face. With the world moving by so fast, she'd escaped from the slow, dreary sorrows that it held. Forget that she really was not moving that fast. But, eventually, she would have to stop. Out of breath, exhausted, and parched, Emerwyn made her way back into the village. It was useless. At least she wasn't hiding from everyone anymore. She knew that she could not hide from her problems. No, whenever she tried that, her problems only escalated. But, facing them head-on. That was something else entirely. Emerwyn squinted at the sky as she revealed herself from the shade of the jungle's roof. Maybe, she'd have some tea. She had not had tea in far too long. She didn't have much of a taste for it anymore. Tea was a human drink. Rex Vadnais Salty drops of water ran from Rex's fur as the lion detoured through the forest on his way home from the beach. His white T-shirt hung at his side from a clenched fist and a pastel blue towel rested on his opposite shoulder. He released a purr of a sigh, continuing through the thick brush.
Rex wasn't quite as restless as he'd been a few months prior. Island life no longer had the droll sense of repetition; he'd found a comfortable state of mind about the ordeal while his body gained more and more feline features. Until the end, he had to continue trucking along as he always had.
Rex rubbed his eyes and yawned largely as he emerged into the sunlight of the open village. Blue eyes scanned the horizon as he took in the sight of the village for the hundreth time before settling on a figure also walking into the village. He didn't recognize her at a glance, but her smell was simply delicious, if not familiar.
Oh gosh, what is her name... He dug through his mind, trying to find the word that fit, but he didn't have quite enough time as he soon arrived at her side. "Hey, Emily, right?" Emerwyn At his approach, Emerwyn's body tensed up. It took a moment after hearing his voice for her to calm a bit. It was very difficult to make herself do this. Being out even for only a few days was bringing her more in touch with being an animal, and those instincts were winning over. But, he was familiar. Oh, yes, she remembered him. Their last run-in was not particularly enjoyable. His name was not as easily forgotten, either. King of the Jungle. "It's Emerwyn," she said, with a smile of forced calm. "And you're Rex." Rex Vadnais "D'oh, Emerwyn. I'm sorry, I'm a little bad with names." He smiled nervously and rubbed his neck.
Just then Rex remembered where he'd known her from. The time with Alec in the forest, oh... that wasn't a very happy meeting. Maybe he could make a better impression this time. "Well, how're you? Things good... or... as good as they get?" Rex's smile eased into a more natural state as his tail swish some drops of water off its tip. Emerwyn "Do not think on it." Someone needed to establish a more comfortable atmosphere, since he'd obviously remembered now, too. However, this was not Emerwyn's forte. "That's probably the best way to describe it." Having no desire to reveal her pains to a stranger, she held back. Not only this, but it was true. This was as good as it ever got. Aside from a few weeks of bliss... "And you? You seem well..." She adjusted her cowl slightly over her shoulders. Rex Vadnais "Yeah, I'm good... happy." Rex paused, reflecting on what 'happy' really was. 'Happy' was with Julie, but he couldn't have that anymore. The more he thought about it the more he realized the island had hardly given him any reason to be happy whatsoever. There was still the giant void in his heart where a woman he loved had once filled, but now there was nothing but ache. Who could fill it?
And he saw Emerwyn. Was it really that easy...? "Well I'm glad to hear that things have been treating you nicely. Depression can suck." Emerwyn "Happy... that's good." What a word choice. Emer got a vibe that that wasn't completely true. She had found something she liked to call happiness with Ian... and look where it led her. "Don't we all know it? But, being out here - it helps. At least we're not holed up in metal cages. Though the metaphorical ones are strong enough. The river... it's so cool... and free." She stared off blankly. Her voice cracked a little as she spoke, and she cleared her throat, trying her best not to cough. At least the fever had broken. Rex Vadnais "Isn't that the truth. I don't know what I'd do without my freedom... and the ocean." The beach was home to Rex, he could always count on it to be there. Unlike other things. Sadly, nothing was permanent. Times change and so must everything else.
Rex caught himself staring off blankly as well before snapping out of it. He groaned quitely and his eyes settled on the deer-man beside him. He could feel the lion inside mix with his human instincts, an explosive battle fighting within Rex's body as the man tried to keep his composure calm and cool. Only a worried look leaked deeply from his eyes. Emerwyn Emerwyn phased slowly and silkily out of her trance, to notice Rex looking at her. The look was unreadable, and it troubled her. Her own face became confused, and reading... What was bothering him? "Is... everything alright?" She brought her cowl a little closer now, though she didn't know why. She didn't feel truly threatened by him... didn't she? Rex Vadnais Rex blinked, just as confused as Emerwn. "Uh.. yeah." He shook his head and looked forward into the village. What was wrong with him?
Though the rumble within himself continued once again, the lion's instinct was fighting to escape. It matched the human's stregnth, though it had an intention. A lion gets what it wants by whatever means it takes.
Rex could feel the human retreat back within his mind as the lion took hold. It looked down on Emer and made Rex move in closer to the woman, nudging her arm playfully. A burst of energy shown through his sharp smile, "I feel like doing something really... fast." He bit his lip longingly, while trying to gain his control again. Emerwyn The simple awkward feelings that Emerwyn had been feeling a moment ago had completely evaporated. And they were replaced with a very nervous kind of fear. She did not fear for her life, no. That she probably could have handled - with two long, fast legs. But now, she felt constricted to the spot, held against her will by an invisible vice. The smile made her feel worse. He had seemed a nice guy when she'd met him in the jungle... Maybe she should've put more thought into how much she'd exposed with her new clothes. But... this was too much. "Um, listen... Rex... What is..." Calm down, maybe that's not what he's talking about! She sighed, and tried to relax her shoulders. Of course, this appeasing voice in her head was completely wrong, and only trying to make her feel better... But, she did her best. "And what..." a nervous laugh. "...would that be?" her voice was hardly above a breathy gasp. Her nerves and her will to hold back her violent cough were draining her of her vocal abilities. Rex Vadnais "Oh gosh, I don't know," Rex said wildly. He looked the woman up and down once again and then bolted ahead at a dead run, charging easily at 15 mph. "But I just got alot of energy..." He ran all the way back to Emer in a blink and finished with, "and I need to blow off some steam." Sealed with a wink. This certainly wasn't the Rex that most people knew. Emerwyn Emerwyn started at Rex's sudden movement, her deadlock being broken temporarily. She hoped that the thing the he - felt like doing - was just that little run... He certainly was an awkward fellow. But, that nagging feeling in Emerwyn's mind told her that Rex wasn't quite finished just yet. And something else wasn't right. It certainly seemed there was something - she chose not to think of what - he wanted to do. But he was being completely unforward about it. Did he want to clue her in? Get her to concede to something without even realizing it? Or did he himself not even know quite what he was doing? Either way, Emerwyn had to think of something before this fuzzy timebomb exploded. "Maybe... you should go for a run," she suggested feebly. Just not after me, the nagging voice chimed in her head. Rex Vadnais Rex crossed his arms, biting his lip and checking her out once again until something shifted inside him. The human instinct pushed its way to the front, regaining control of this puppet of a body.
His blue eyes blasted open and a dazed expression replaced Rex's previous seducting smile. He glanced around nervously as his breathing quickened to a pant. What is HAPPENING?! "Uh.. wow, I'm sorry." He licked his lips anxiously, "Er... maybe I should go..." Emerwyn Emerwyn felt a little bad now... maybe she'd been unfair to the lion. Even if he was a carnivore... a very confused, awkward carnivore. "No, no... I'm sorry. Why - why don't we try again?" Still not sure about this... Rex Vadnais Rex was about to leave before the lion came back for more. But as Emerwyn's words entered his ear, the lion fought to regain control again. The savage instincts returned and regained the pilot's chair.
Rex smiled sexily at the woman and pushed himself closer onto her body. "I think trying again sounds like a marvelous plan..." His voice had gained a syrupy tone as the words slid fluid-like from his tounge. He reached his arm around her waist and pulled her in close to his large body, I've got her this time the lion inside whispered. He closed his eyes and went for the kill. A gentle and sensuous kiss landed softly on Emer's lips. Emerwyn Well, that certainly was not what Emerwyn meant!! But, she was not in a situation to say so. And as he spoke, and slid closer to her, the frozen deer started to tremble, unsure what was going on or what she was to do. A strange and uncomfortable tremor went up through Emerwyn's body as he held her there. And, worst was the kiss. Her first instinct was to stay there. It was so masterfully executed... And well, she'd really only been kissed by three men before... One of which had been her doing the kissing - and he didn't even remember it (thankfully) But, this. This was different. What was it? It frightened her. And, her second instinct was to run, and run fast and far. Even if she chose the second option, however, it would have been futile. The grip the lion held her in would probably only tighten. He had her right where he wanted her, and she'd fallen right into it. She stood in that comatose-like state for what felt like hours, until she realized just what was going on. Her eyes snapped open, and she tried to break away, her eyes frantic, her body still trembling and hot. Rex Vadnais The kiss was held for a considerable amount of time, both figures frozen in the awkward embrace. But it hit Rex at the exact moment it got to Emerwyn.
His eyes flashed open widely once again as the deer started to flail frantically in his firm grip. He released the woman and took a few steps back, "OH MY GOSH, I'm so sorry." Well thats a smart thing to say, "I don't know what I was thinking. I- I- I wasn't in control. I'm so sorry..." And there he stood, officially confirming every steriotype about men in their 20's.
Rex didn't know what more he could do, everything happened so fast it left him in a dumbfounded state. Emerwyn Emerwyn stood there, flabbergasted. Her mouth hung open slightly, and her body still trembled subtly. The words he said passed in and out of her ears like wind. But when the words finally sank in, she was appalled. It was that typical thing... that excuse that guys used so they could take advantage of a girl. Then, why did he let up so quickly? She was weak, confused, defenseless. He could have done a lot more to her. She looked him in the eyes... Yes, he was sincere. But, she still could not bring herself to say anything. Not even Jerrick had ever kissed her like that. Rex Vadnais Rex was just as utterly confused as well. And he was the one that kissed her! But it couldn't have been him, he'd never acted like that before. What had come over him? Did he like Emerwyn without even knowing it? Well she does look pretty sexy standing there all skimpy-like. He cocked an eyebrow and smiled wryly, but that quickly flushed away once again as he returned to his honestly sincere self.
"Emer... I'm so sorry... Like, I-... what just happened? I don't know what to say." The words continued to ramble on as he stood in an open and ready stance, hands at his sides and jaw agape. He fumbled over his worse worse than a puppy over its own paws. All he could do was sigh. Emerwyn Emerwyn's sympathy began to take the stronger hold over her, as it had done in the past. She did her best to shrug off the returning shadows in his face. But, then, as he clumsily tried to explain himself, she smiled. And, after tightening her cowl once more, she walked up to him, and pressed a hoofy 'finger' to his lips. Sure, maybe the move was a little sensual, but Emerwyn's definitions of that sort tended to be off-kilter from the norm. "It's alright." She pulled her hand away. "But- I think it's time we said goodbye... for now." Rex Vadnais Rex's babbling came to a hushed end, but on the inside all that he could manage to think was OOOOH MYYY GOOOOD. He stood there in silence, looking into Emerwyn's eyes as to read what on earth was going on behind their brown and gold surface. Even though that was impossible... who understood what girls were thinking ever?
With an understanding nod Rex smiled and said, "I think that's a good idea... I'll see you around." And while the only sound heard after that was the occasional squack of a parrot and the waves in the distance, inside Rex's head was full of screaming, confusion and chaos.
He turned to head back to his duplex where it actually hit him. Rex kissed a girl he hardly knew, they both enjoyed it, and all of his morals were destroyed. Thankfully the only thing harmed in the ensuing outburst was the death of a pillow that met Rex's confused claw. Emerwyn Emerwyn watched him walk away, and as soon as he was out of ear- and eye-shot, she turned away, and leaned against the nearest building. Her breath was heavy, and her head spinning. What on earth had just happened? It was the question that would not leave her mind. At least she had found a way to end it smoothly. Let your words guide you... That had been a problem lately, but it seemed Emerwyn was getting the feel for herself again. But, what had happened, that was not her. No, it wasn't! Rex was the one who moved onto her. She had done nothing. He practically attacked her! But... She despised and loathed herself for admitting it- She enjoyed it. Once again Emerwyn placed the blame upon herself. And... what about Ian? Well, technically, they were separated. Besides, it's not like he'd even have to find out, right?
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Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2006 5:35 pm
Weakness Rex Vadnais Rex pumped the barbell up and down, up and down, huffing and puffing with each new rep. His face was red and beads of sweat dripped slowly down his red face, only to get caught in his mane of a beard.
One more bench press and the bar landed loudly on the rack above him. Rex let out a sigh and sat up for a swig from his water bottle. Water dribbled off his chin and streaked his white sleeveless tee from his sloppy sip. Rex preferred to workout with a friend, but sometimes the solitude was nice.
After about a minute or so Rex laid back down, prepped for it, and started to press once again. The only thing to be heard was the quiet counting under his breath and the occasional grunt released from underneathe the heavy weight. Maryke Jimenez
It took Maryke a while to figure out where the damn gym was. After her time at the beach, baking topless in the sun with Nita she realized one thing. She hadn't been to the gym in a while. If you looked at her she still looked taut and filled in all the right places, but she could notice the small stuff like that. It was her body after all. So she made a decision that while she was here she was going to upkeep her looks. She for damn sure worked too hard not to. So after changing into a tight fitting white tank and small black shorts she tied her hair in a neat pony tail and set off.
Once inside she looked around, stopping in an instant when she saw the man....lion? Yeah definitely a lion. The only other males she had met were well, not exactly easy to get along with. Well Pyroth was, but he was a full fledged dog so that didn't count. She decided to ignore him unless he spoke to her directly and made her way to the treadmill, water bottle and small towel in hand.
Rex Vadnais Rex's attention to his lifting was interupted abruptly with the appearance of a woman entering the room. And it was certainly a sight worthy of seeing, so worthy that he almost forgot about the fact he was holding an extremely heavy pole in his hands. The weight would've slipped from his sweaty palms if it weren't for his padded paw. He placed the weight back above him and sat up once again, wiping the sweat from his brow and not even bothering for another drink of water. Such a foxy lady I haven't met? Where have you been all my life, sweetcakes? An all too familiar voice rumbled in the back of his mind. Rex pushed those thoughts aside and decided to take the respectful approach instead of the cold-shoulder she'd given him.
Rex came to his feet and set his towel and bottle down with a sigh, "Why hello, I don't think we've met," the man said clearly, approaching the treadmill the woman had settled on, "I'm Rex. It's nice to see some fresh faces around the island." He offered a hand to shake, hoping she wouldn't be afraid of the claws. Maryke Jimenez
After her little stitch with Jamal and seeing all of the other islanders not much really shocked or scared the madame. Around here the worst that could happen was you could be mauled and eaten to death. Know your fears, b***h slap them by not caring...and then you were fine. So she shook his paw without any hesitations and smiled warmly, noting the interesting way the lion was forming around the man. By his stature and appearance she guessed he had once been a very attractive man.
"Maryke," she said after giving his paw/hand a few quick pumps. "I hope I'm not interrupting your excerise or anything..." she said as she turned on the machine, steady walk pace to start off so she could still talk at the same time.
Rex Vadnais "Oh gosh no," Rex said as he returned to the bench, Interupt me any time, baby, "I was just thinking that it can get lonely in here. And besides, it's not like I could stop you from working out in here. That's just not right." He sat down, his speech paused as he drank from the bottle again. Rex downed it in a few sips and tossed it into the waste bin by the door.
He laid back on the bench and said, "So how long have you been around here?" Hoping some small talk would ease the tention... unless she wanted to be alone. Somewhere inside Rex could feel the lion trying desperately to impress this beauty with his pumping iron, though it couldn't really be seen from the exterior. Maryke Jimenez
There was something about the friendly lion that Maryke found endearing. When she was a kid, The Wizard of Oz had always been her favorite movie. Favorite character? The cowardly lion. By the looks of it, this guy sure wasn't cowardly or that much of a goofball, but still it made her smile at the thought.
"I haven't been here long," she said adjusting the speed to start a steady slow jog. Internally she wished she had a more supportive bra on, but secretly told herself Rex wouldn't notice...certain bouncing movements with her chest. She was just here for pleasantries and a good workout anyway. "About a few days...what about you? They trick you like everyone else?"
Rex Vadnais To think that Rex wouldn't notice her breasts in his current state of mind was quite a mistake. In reality, what straight man wouldn't notice? Or were Rex's hormones in overdrive? Was his serum acting up? Or perhaps it was simply that Rex now had the courage to approach other women and look to them as potential partners? Only time would tell.
Though he tried to keep his eyes off the rhythmic bouncing and keep his attention on the conversation and his workout. FOCUS! "Tricked? Ah, naw. I was actually thrown... er... dove overboard of a cruiseliner not far from here. This is where I washed up, go figure." His words were broken up by the occasional huff or strained pause. Perhaps he'd had enough of the bench press.
"You?" Maryke Jimenez
"Thrown overboard," she replied, barely noticing how he was watching her. With that it was always a hit or miss with Maryke, either she caught everything or she noticed nothing. There was no iffies or 'well maybe's with the madame. "Geez that has to be a b***h... I was told this place was going to be some sort of island resort, a real ******** paradise, lemme tell you..."
She continued her pace of a jog a few more minutes and then figured she couldn't run the speed she wanted to without hurting her back or her boobs in the process. And seeing Rex seemed to be taking a breather she stepped off the treadmill and pulled down a mat from a nearby stack. Once placing it down she got down onto her back and raised a leg in the air. "Spot me?" she asked, attempting to get a few good stretches in.
Rex Vadnais "Well, it's a bit more complicated than being 'thrown overboard'. I dove off to save someone who did fall off, but in the end we both got left behind and washed up here." Rex purposefully left out the details for Avery's own privacy. Being pounded on is not really something anyone should be proud of. He sighed and wiped his face once again with the workout rag. "But in the end, I'm happy here. Life on the mainland wasn't treating me well... it's almost like dying early. I have no complaints, with the exception of the whole..." Rex gestured to his tail, flicking minutely at his side, "...animal thing."
He came to his feet at her request and held her leg so she could get the full benefit of the stretch. Rex had to make an effort to look at her face and eyes, as opposed to those twins on her chest. "Just say when." Maryke Jimenez
She listened to his story and once again Rex was shown in nothing but a noble light. Heh, noble lion, go figure. But, still, he'd have to have been a really great guy before he was turned into.... she cleared her thoughts from that. She constantly had to remind herself that these people were still human, despite being mixed with animal. Strange thought that she still hadn't gotten used to.
Once he grabbed her leg, she sighed and then gripped the mat, wetting her lips with her tongue and prepping herself for the stretch. "Okay go..."
Rex Vadnais Rex slowly applied pressure to her leg, careful not to scratch her as well as hoping he didn't hurt her. Though she seemed pretty flexible, he didn't want to harm someone he hardly knew.
"But enough about me, how do you like it here so far? Any word on what critter they've got you scripted for?" At the moment, human Rex was trying to get to know this girl, but the lion had it's different approaches. Before he could stop it, a paw slid sensuously down her calf. I remember seeing this possision befo- oh gosh, what am I thinking... Rex didn't bother to move his hand for fear of suspiscion, but the lion obviously was feeling in the mood for a frisky adventure. Maryke Jimenez
She let him keep going until her leg was parrell with her head. Was she flexible? You're damn right she was. "Nope, I didn't ask, I don't want to know. By the way that a*****e Duvert looked when he stuck me though I don't think it was something hideous. At least...I hope not...." She really didn't want to know, she wanted to stay human for as long as possible and inwardly she knew it was only a matter of time for that.
And then Rex began his little rubbings, which she definitely felt. Noble her well toned a**! "Other leg..." she said quickly, moving the one he was holding down, though in a way that spread her legs to him, before she raised the other up for him to take hold of. Just because she wasn't interested didn't mean she couldn't have some fun.
Rex Vadnais In the leg switch he tried his damndest not to look at her downstairs. And if Rex wanted something to happen with all his will then it wouldn't happen (apart from the inevitable), he looked up and didn't give a whim to the fact she just spread her legs for the world to see. Focus on the conversation! "Ahh, though I've never had the... pleasure of meeting Dr. Duvert, I've heard stories. He's not one to mess around with, I'll tell you that. But perhaps he let you off the hook! I know I got it pretty easy with the lion compared to some others. There's a freakin' octopus guy out there. I feel bad for the man, but in a way the serum suits him." He chuckled a quietly before finishing with, "Besides, it'd be a waste to see this body go." GOD DAMNIT, STUPID STUPID STUPID! Maryke Jimenez
She couldn't help but laugh at the display, he was into her and the fact that he was trying so hard not to be was encouraging her even more. Maryke wasn't one to just put out, but hell she was a woman and women had certain needs too. Like controlling a man then watching him quiver at your every touch.
Oh and then there was the ability to enact the 'blue balls' card. That was fun too. "I've heard of the octapus guy, haven't met him yet....thank god......keep going," she muttered, letting him push her leg farther. She was more flexible in that leg it seemed. "Yeah I'd say you did get lucky....big fericious lion..." she cooed, she quirked an eyebrow at him "Imagine the possibilities..."
Rex Vadnais Now why are you doing this to me? Rex thought, a question proposed for himself and Maryke. He may be oblivious half the time, but he wasn't stupid. He'd met this type before and wasn't about to let her win. And what could he do about Emerwyn? There was some kind of.. awkward connection between the two of them the previous day, should he really be hitting on this girl with a potential relationship in the works elsewhere? But... she's has such a luscious body...
He couldn't continue like this, "Yeah, Billy's a creep and a sleaze. You might want to watch out for him." He finished her stretch quickly and said, "All finished?" Offering her a hand up from the ground. He let her words go in one ear and out the other, he was tired of mind games... Unless she wants something more... Maryke Jimenez
She enjoyed this little game, playing around with his head and then drawing back. Especially since he was a LION. Big scary and.....to dominate such a creature was new feet for her. She wanted to do it and she wanted to have him padding around at her feet. But then he had to go and act all pissy about it.
"I'll do that," she said taking the paw offered to her and then rising up on her feet. All finished? Hmmph. She'd see about that.
"Not quite," she said , "There might be some other stretch routines we could try." Her brow was raised and her lips were pursed. Classic Maryke 'come and get me' look.
Rex Vadnais Ooh, who's in charge of this little game? Seconds ago Rex was eating from the palm of her hand, but now that he's turned her down she wants to go at it again? We'll see about that.
Trying to keep his normal and courteous composure, he sighed then cheerfully said, "Alright, if you need some help I'm here for you." He smiled politely, hand on his hips and a toothy grin from ear to ear. Who was playing who? Maryke Jimenez
Oohhhhhh boy did that do it. Maryke was NEVER refused. Not by the most attractive men on the planet and she for damn sure wasn't going to let some lion boy with a good body do it now. She stepped in close, her chest almost touching his fur as she looked up at him.
"Yeah...I need some help..." she said licking her lips even more. she took to running a hand up and down his arm fur, making sure to use her nails in a gentle raking motion. Didn't cats liked to be scratched? ******** if she knew. "Kinda help that only someone of your...." her hazel eyes ticked down to his crotch, "size can do."
Rex Vadnais It was on. She'd have to work to win this kitty over, and boy did she work. She worked like a pro...
Rex stood tall and strong with his hand still on his hips even as her finger tickled along his fur. But instead of giving it to her her way, he stood nearly unaffected. "Just name what you want and I'll see if I can oblige." He mumbled these words barely above a whisper, licking his lips slightly as well and digging into her eyes with his own fierce blue orbs. He cocked his eyebrows and curled a feight smile at the very corners of his lips.
Sure, this was against just about everything Rex convinced himself about relationships. But this wasn't just about flirting anymore, this was a competition. Maryke Jimenez
"Hmmmmmmmm," Maryke said in mock amusement, as if she was contemplating what she really wanted. Of course she KNEW what she wanted. Wanted to gain from all of this. And she was going to get it...at ANY cost.
"And what if..." she said moving her hand from his arm and settling it to the waistband of his shorts, "I wanted...." her other hand followed suit so that both hands were holding the waistband. "...You...." With that she pulled them down completely and then looked up at him with a fierce little smirk.
Rex Vadnais Rex merely stood there with a smirk a mile wide plastered on his face. He must've looked like an idiot from the outside with his drawers around his ankles, essentially naked in front of a stranger. But he kept his chin high, even if he was nervous on the inside.
Rex looked down at Maryke calmly, even though he'd only had one other lover, he was experienced enough. But still through these unfamiliar waters, he couldn't let her win. "Ahh, me?" He smiled as some color came to his cheeks, "I thought that was obvious." Rex lifted his shirt over his head and couched down to Maryke's level, moving in for the kiss. He'd give the 90, though it was her turn for the 10. Maryke Jimenez
THEN STUFF HAPPENED BUT I CAN'T SAY WHAT.....
so she leaned in kissed him...and then...
pulled away completely. "It's too bad I'm exhausted," she pouted, her hazel eyes dancing with malice, "I'd just love to take a raincheck though. I'm in 54, I'm pretty sure I've got plenty of catnip to go around...." she turned to go out the door, stopping for a moment. "Catch you later, kitten," she winked before waving and slinking out of the room.
Rex Vadnais Rex sat there. Naked. In the gym...
"What...?" Rex came to his feet and slid his pants back up, next came his shirt. "...Ugh." He closed his eyes and shook his head, gathering his things and leaving the gym for a long cold shower.
Rex needed to get back in touch with himself, just as he found peace with himself on the island, some crazy drama had to come and screw it all up. These doctors were messing with his head more than Maryke. Why couldn't he just continue on as he had been? He'd been so happy before he saw Emerwyn the day prior, but ever since he hadn't been himself.
With a grunt and a sigh, Rex fumbled through the village. Alone.
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Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2006 5:47 pm
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Posted: Fri Aug 25, 2006 1:15 pm
The Walk from Heck Antony ignored him, not seeing his mood swing, but instead pressed the number for Rex's duplex. With a grunt and a moan Rex pulled himself from his bed after an afternoon catnap. He fumbled yawning to the buzzer on the wall and pushed the button, answering with a drowsy "Hello?" "Hey Rex?" She said cheerily, or at least, as cheery as she could muster, "I need your help." The voice of the squirrel on the other side of the line pulled Rex from his sleepy haze, "Oh, whats up Ant? What do you need help for?" He released the button and yawned once more, trying to fully wake up. Antony smiled, even though he couldn't see her, "Could you come to duplex 33 for me?" "Um, sure! I'll be right over." Rex slipped on a shirt, washed his face and wandered over to the bottom floor of the Duplex next door. The number rang a bell distantly in his mind, but he couldn't place it. He opened the door and prodded a head inside, "Helloo?" He called, making sure it was the right duplex. Since she was the only mobile one in the room, she opened the door further for Rex. Rex walked in further, "Heh, thanks..ohh..." his eyes fell on the tank with the assorted sheets and other things inside. "Uh, what did you need help with?" He said, giving the tank another quizzical galnce. "Well... Billy changed and I need to get him to the lake, but..." She gestured to herself before reaching out and giving Rex's bicep a healthy squeeze and then a pat. "I'm not -that- strong." Rex listened to her little explanation and smiled humbly when he squeezed him. "Ahh, alright." Rex approached the tank, peering inside, "And I'm guessing Billy is in here..." He hadn't seen the man since his first change, so Rex was curious as to what an octopus would look like at this new stage. Billy shifted in his tank, the octopus once again taking a hold of the man, his skin having gone white to blend in with the sheets again. He peered up at the potential preditor fearfully, tentacles dug deep under the debris. Antony simply watched for a moment, staying silent until she joined Rex next to the tank, "Billy, this is Rex and he's going to help you with me." Rex looked down into the tank, the sudden realization that Billy was there before his eyes caused a silent gasp to slip his lips. Rough change, poor guy. Rex waved friendily down to the octopus and smiled, "Hey Billy, I don't know if you remember me..." Through the water, though, all he could hear were the dim sounds of foreign words, and the wavering, water-distorted view of their faces peering down on him. The octopus slipped back further under the blankets and pillows, looking terrified that the big cat was going to scoop a paw down and try to see what his tentacles tasted like. She sighed, motioning for Rex to stand back for a bit before beckoning Billy while mouthing, "It's okay." This was so strange. Rex stepped back obediantly, he'd heard loads of stories about post-change aggression. He knew he'd certainly felt it before. Hesitantly, carefully, the octopus man surfaced just enough for his sopping white hair and trembling spiny fin to poke out of the water, his mantle cavity still sucking at the liquid for oxygen while it could. "..." "We're going to need something to keep him wet during the trip I think..." She spoke to Rex, but kept her attention on Billy, offering him an encouraging smile. "I'll get a towel." Rex walked quickly into the bathroom, still slightly dumbfounded by the sight he just saw. He grabbed the nearest bath towel, figuring that the man wouldn't ever have to use one of these again. He threw it into the bathtub and soaked it with water then brought it back to the tank. "Anything else?" With a few blinks, Billy seemed as though he were starting to come back to himself, his nervious twitch returning as he slowly lifted his head out of the water enough to switch to his lungs rather than his internal gills, "Aint seen y'... in a long while, lad. Nice hair." He panted gruffly. A thankful look passed from Antony to Rex before she turned back to Billy. The squirrel woman looked generally relieved that they didn't have to do something that involved being inked. "Do you think a wet towel will due for the trip?" Rex smiled deeply when the man spoke from his little watery tank. He ws glad to see that there was still some humanity left in the slippery body. Rex chuckled and ran his hand through his bedhead, "Heh, thanks" Unfortunately Rex couldn't say the same to Billy. The octopus man gave a gurgling noise, dipping down into the water again, his tentacles fidgeting anxiously around him. His color returned in splotches and they could see his suckers clinging to the sides of the tank. It was difficult to remind the octopus that he was on his way to a much bigger amount of water, the cepholopod in his head refusing to go out on dry land where his body was practically useless. "Fine, fine, it'll be fine!" he snarled, looking anxious. Her tongue clicked against the back of her teeth, but she gestured for Rex to do his manly hefting. "Then let us get on with this." Rex swallowed his lurking anxeity of being strangled by Billy, he had to trust him as his hands dipped down into the water to scoop up the splotched man in his grip. "Get comfortable bud," Rex strained to say, "Thankfully the lake isn't far." Billy spasmed, looking frantic and paniced for a moemnt, tentacles wrapping around Rex's limbs in a frantic gesture, his cepholopodian eyes widening. Antony waited until Rex had a good grip on Billy before laying the towel over the octoman. "Good stuff, let's get t'moving." Rex gently made a move for the door, ignoring the suckers pulling at the fur on his arms and shoulders. He kicked the door open with his foot and headed out the door. "How're you doin', Billy?" The octopus man was hyperventilating, eyes locked on his vanishing tank. He mad an odd noise, tentacles shfiting and trying to break free of the bundle of the towel, slapping at and squeezing at Rex's limbs like a frightened, wild animal. She had the sense to grab and pocket Billy's keys before following suite and shutting the duplex door behind her. Catching up to them, she offered a hand to one of Billy's arm tentacles. "Just talk to me Billy. Do you want me to light myself a smoke?" The second comment was an afterthought, but she was sure Billy would appreciate a bit of second hand smoke right now. Deep down, Rex rumbled about smoking. He had a sort of grudge against cigarettes from his childhood. Even though the woman they took didn't love him, she was still his mom. But he just ignored it, maybe it'd soothe the flailing Billy at least a little bit. In the meantime, the least he could do was keep walking and avoid being smacked in the face with a tentacle. The word "Cigarette" seemed to snap the octopus man back into his own head, the flailing stopping as he blinked at her. He gave a groan, "I want a feckin' cigarette... tha'.... go' damn b*****d..." She gave an apologetic look to Rex before she managed to light herself one. Taking a long, healthy drag, she exhaled as off to the side as she could to keep it from looking like she was blowing it in Billy's face. "Better than nothing?" She asked quietly. Rex nodded back to Antony and exhaled from his nostrils to keep the smell as dilluded as possible. He could deal. Rex was just happy that Billy calmed down. He hoisted the slippery body up farther like a baby and sighed, his muscles slowly wearing down. "We're gettin' there soon!" "Jes'... jes' a puff... maybe he aint watchin'... maybe he aint... " Billy stretched a tentacle, trying to grab the smoke desperatly. She kept it out of reach, "I'm sure he's watching like a hawk." Experimentally, she exhaled the next drag directly at Billy. "They buzz him down if he touches anything... Smokes, alcohol, etc." The explanation was for Rex, obviously. Rex was appreciative of the explanation, though his eyes widened at the consequences. "Yeesh, that's no good." Especially because I'm holding him. "Sorry Billy, looks like you've got to keep it down to enjoying the smoke." Rex sighed, filtering out as much of the smoke as he could and readjusting his grip on the octopus. Billy's expression trembled befor his chemically imbalanced emotions took hold and his mood swang for the worst, tears sliding down his slimy face to wet his beard, "It aint FAIR! It aint FAIR tha' god damn feckin' b*****d SHE CHOSE YOU, Y'bloody man-c**t!!" He screamed as though Moreau could hear him. Antony jumped back, squirrel instincts taking over for a bit as she stood utterly still, as if that would keep the predators from her. Rex's head jerked to the side as Billy wailed wildly in his ear like an obnoxious parrot. He was obviously missing some past drama. The octopus fell silent, busying himself gasping for air. Water. He needed fresh water. Water befor smokes. Water his new addiction. Lovely. ******** lovely. "How close are we?" She managed to squeak out moments later as she caught up to the pair again. "I don't think its far, just a few more duplexes away." It was good that the lake was literally right next to the village. Rex could smell the distant scent of water slowly approaching as they continued their dirge. Billy was weasing harder, desperatly gasping at the air, his skin going greyer in his exhaustion. The distant, feral look had returned to him and he nibbled at the towel as though he could suck the water straight from it. "Best hurry," she commented, frowning at Billy's appearance. "Good idea," Rex said nervously, picking the pace up to a gentle jog. He tried his hardest not to jostle Billy in the process, but the guy was going to suffocate if he stayed outside much longer. The lake was in view through the trees. "Almost there." Rex panted. The closer they got to the sounds of water, Billy wormed and wriggled more desperatly, his tentacles tiwtching where they were wrapped around Rex's limbs, some sliding around to try to reach for it, attempting to squirm away from the offending lion man. Antony kept up with the two of them, jogging as well. There, the lake was but 100 feet away and now Rex was practically running to get the fragile frantic man into the cool water. He felt constricted by the man he was excorting, but also didn't want him flopping onto the ground. "Here we go!" Rex yelled, feigning cheer over the writhing mass in his clutch. Rex ran into the shallow waters and released Billy into the murk. THe octopus promptly turned, half-formed beak widened to squirt a jet of ink into the lion's face befor he dipped under the water, quickly slipping from view. It seemed as useless and clumsy as his body had been above water, underwater, it was far more functional. Luckily, Antony had decided not to run and arrived at the lake less than a minute later, so she had no part of the inking on her nice, white fur. "Ew," she commented as she tried not to laugh at Rex. Rex was relieved to left Billy go before SHPLAT in the face, all he could see was a nasty mixture of black and the smell of fish. "Yeuughhhh!" He yelled before leaning into the water to wash off as much of the ink as possible. He knew he needed a shower, but that was just rediculous. Rex coughed and spit up some ink that had gotten into his mouth. "Ugh, gosh. You're welcome, Billy." Rex said ruefully, trudging back to the shore and pointing at Antony, "Not a word." She covered her muzzle with a hand so that he couldn't see her snickering, "Don't worry, I'm sure he's thankful... He's just cranky." Clearing her throat, she simply grinned moments later before gesturing him to follow her. "I know how to get his ink out of fur," she offered. "Yeah, I bet you're right. I would be too." He said, turning back to the lake to wave off Billy, "Have fun out here, bud." "And do you think you could help me with this then?" He chuckled and pulled as the ink left in his beard. "This is pretty disgusting..." "Imagine it on white fur," she grumbled, tails swishing behind her as she made her way back on the small path in the jungle. It was best left unsaid the nature she had gotten said ink stains. Rex turned to start his way into the village. "Well, did it all come out?" He sure hoped it didn't stain. "Eventually, I had gray splotches for a while though... But that's probably because I'm pale as hell." "Could be... ahh well.." Rex sighed, arms falling to his sides. "Do you have the stuff you need at your place?" "Yeah, but sadly... I have no towels, so you'll just have to air dry naked on the couch," she teased, chuckling before offering an equally playful smirk. For the most part, she was joking. Rex laughed nervously, trying to supress the lion inside from getting too excited. Rex had expelled him from his mind, it was too difficult to let him run rampant. But he couldn't just tell Ant 'Hey! Don't talk about sexual stuff. I can't handle with that right now.' It just didn't work that way. "Dude, don't worry... I have towels," she raised an eyebrow at him, but soon turned to face foreward once more and continue to the village quietly. ((To finish the rp, please continue to the post after the next.))
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Island of Moreau Vice Captain
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Posted: Sat Aug 26, 2006 9:58 pm
Like many others, your dreams before the change are strong that night - vivid, primal, and boiling with surpressed instincts, the little voices that you can shut out during the bright of day when your consciousness can (sometimes) hold in the animal feelings. So when you do wake up, abruptly, you're left with a rumbling growl in your chest and feeling as if you were wrested from the serengetti plains. And while the feeling might be fleeting... some other feeling is not quite so. Your heart still thumps quickly in your chest, and your muscles ache... signifying an impending change. Without much additional warning, it begins. The tawny fur spreads over the as of yet untouched areas of skin. Your maine thickens, spreading down your shoulders, down yoru chest all the way down your belly. If you had pause for thought, it makes you look bigger, almost regal. Your ears round out more, almost lost in your thick mane, your feet ache as they stretch out, not leaving you with the option of walking flat-footed anymore. And finally, your canines lenghten even more in your short muzzle, giving you quite an intimidating "smile." 
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Posted: Sun Aug 27, 2006 12:14 am
Naked Fury ((Continued from the previous RP post.)) Rex (3:35:18 PM): Rex laughed again, this time a bit more at ease, "Heh, I know." Relaaaaax All of his focus was put into rejecting the lion's teasing thoughts. Not the time. Antony (3:40:00 PM): She nodded, but said nothing more until she had unlocked her duplex and grandly waved him inside. It was shut and locked once both were in, and Antony immediately stripped herself of her tank top, which smelled of fish. "I do believe I'll need to do laundry ASAP." Blech, fish. "But yeah, shower's free for you to use, and then I'll grab one after you... Unless you're up for conserving water." Her voice held no sexual offer in it, having noticed his earlier reaction when she brought up something even remotely sexual. "Whatever you want to do." Rex (3:47:00 PM): "Good idea." Rex nodded and took off his shirt and shorts. He was perfectly comfortable with himself until an option came. I can't do this. I can't can't can't! He chewed over the idea with his heart pounding. No. Not yet. "I'll be quick, don't worry. The showers are kind of cramped for me enough as it is." He smiled reassuringly, "But is there some kind of technique for getting this ink out? Or should I just shampoo the crap out of it?" He tugged at his beard once more, the ink beginning to solidify. Antony (3:51:23 PM): "Shampoo a couple of times," she agreed, bending over so she could pull off her own shorts as well, leaving her in that day's chosen lingerie. Tucking some of her hair behind one of her ears, she offered him a lopsided smile. "Make it quick Inky," Antony chided with amusement before turning and crawling across the bed to set her lighter and pack of smokes back on the nightstand. Her tails were in constant movement, per usual. Sadistically, she let her hips waggle a bit as she crawled. He could always take a cold shower. Rex (3:57:25 PM): "I will." He said flatly before disappearing behind the bathroom door as she dropped her shorts. He sighed, glad to be temporarily removed from that situation before the lion got any ideas. He turned on the water and slipped through the curtains. Thoroughly washing his beard, hair and face before his hands fell on the cross of his necklace. "Oh God, why does this have to be so uncontrollable." He whispered a prayer underneath the rolling sound from the shower spigget then continued to wash at his inked face again. Antony (4:00:17 PM): Antony decided that while he showered she could sort through her laundry and prepare it to be washed as quickly as possible. As fond as she was of Billy, this fish smell made her sick. At least she avoided being inked on. Rex (4:04:15 PM): After a few more washes, Rex figured that was the best he could do. He turned off the water and threw back the curtains, drying his hair hurriedly so his whole head resembled some blue-eyed Furby. He grabbed his underwear and charged the door, announcing, "Tag!" The second he stepped out. Antony (4:10:42 PM): She looked up abruptly at his sudden exit, jumping slightly but smiling nonetheless. "Sweet," she grinned, reaching behind her with one hand to unsnap her bra before she shook it off. Getting up, she made her way to the bathroom, turning around and sling shotting her next discarded article, her thong, at the back of Rex's head. Rex (4:14:09 PM): Rex smiled cheezily, holding his towel up that he'd wrapped around his waist as he walked to the bed. "I hope I didn't take all of the warm water." He didn't notice Antony remove her bra, but the thong-to-the-head sure caught his attention. It tumbled down his back to get hooked on his tail, "..what?" Rex whispered; he turned in time to see the naked Antony retreating to the bathroom before he quickly looked away once again. Awkward times for this big cat. Antony (4:21:39 PM): Antony chuckled, allowing her tails to flick behind her just a bit more before disappearing into the shower. Hers was much faster than the lion man's, but thanks to all the tails, it was still longer than her showers used to be. ******** fur. Once it was dried to the best of the towel's ability, she wrapped it around her and stepped back into her bedroom. A cheeky grin was sent his way before she began to rifle through her lingerie drawer for a set to wear. Rex (4:23:26 PM): In the meantime, Rex's boxers found their way back onto the lion-man and his hair was a bit more styled than when the squirrel vanished into the shower. "Nice and clean?" Antony (4:25:01 PM): "Clean as a girl like me can get," she state, a tone of amusement filtering through her voice as she continued to pick and choose articles. Every so often she'd hold one up and examine it more closely before tossing it back in with the rest. One day, she should organize this drawer so it'd be easier to find sets in the future. Rex (4:26:57 PM): Once again, Rex was forced to ignore those thoughts and instead examined his tinted face and fur. "He got me pretty good but I think I got the most of it out." Antony (4:33:10 PM): She finally decided on a pair, and calmly dropped her towel, tails covering up most of her rear from view as she pulled the pieces on. Only after she was covered enough did she bend down to pick up the towel and then move to sit on the edge of the bed, patting the spot next to her. "You can barely see it... It'll go away entirely soon enough." Rex (4:34:47 PM): Rex spied her through the mirror but insistantly kept his eyes from wandering. "I hope you're right." He smiled, turning around when she was finished. He took his seat down next to her. Antony (4:39:04 PM): Antony continued to try and dry her tails as much as possible. "They faded on me, so you'll be fine." Reaching over, she gave his hair a ruffle, if only to mess up its 'style.' "So, how have you been lately?" Rex (4:41:03 PM): Rex chuckled as his hair returned to its mane-like state, "I've been pretty good... things have been a little hectic and confusing recently, but I've got it under control." He smiled with the pause, "What about you, huh? Things treating you well?" Antony (4:43:25 PM): She gave a sigh, running her hands over her furry face in a sort of grooming gesture to calm her down. "It's been s**t," the squirrel woman finally admitted quietly, but she gave no indication of going to explain. Rex (4:44:32 PM): Rex wasn't terribly surprised, but didn't apply any pressure. He rubbed her shoulder tenderly and said, "Oh gosh, I'm sorry." She'd explain if she felt the need to. Antony (4:45:53 PM): Staying silent, she simply nuzzled her face into his furry shoulder, sighing softly and wrapping her still damp tails around her. Rex (4:48:19 PM): Rex sighed and held her close. Her problems seemed worse than Rex's little second conscience; the least he could do is support her. "Can I do anything for you?" All of this was rather unexpected. Antony (4:52:04 PM): Somehow, after a bit of shifting, she carefully crawled into his lap, making sure not to jar his manbits in anyway. His question caused many thoughts to come to mind, but they either didn't seem appropriate or they were something she really wanted to deal with at the moment. At least, not outwardly. She really just needed physical contact. Warm, mammalian physical contact to be exact. Rex (4:53:37 PM): I guess not... All he could do was comfort her and make her feel welcome, he didn't have the slightest idea what was happening in her head so all he could do was wait. Antony (4:59:39 PM): "People are disappearing, literally and through animals... The only physical contact that I've been able to scrounge up in the past several month's is Billy... BILLY for ******** sake." She was shaking a bit, but it was hard to tell if she was angry or crying. Rex (5:03:10 PM): This was all new news to the oblivious Rex. Disappearances? That was one of the most frightening things Rex had heard in a long time. And the information about Billy was just a bit... distubing. He had to let her get it all out, pulling her farther up onto his lap and shushing quietly in her ear. SHe had to calm down... Antony (5:08:21 PM): She sighed and wrapped her arms around his chest while burying her face in his 'mane' of sorts. "I just feel... I'm not myself anymore, and I'm not sexy... The tattoos are hidden by fur..." Rex (5:16:18 PM): Rex held her tight, "I feel like it'd be hard for anyone to really feel like themselves after what this place does to you." He sighed, remembering all of her tattoos vaguely. He never really looked at them, but he knew that they were all very important to her. Antony (5:20:01 PM): She nodded, and lifted her head from her burrowing for a moment so she could look him in the eyes. "I'm sorry," Antony whispered, referring to not just her acting like a little girl, but for everything. His fiance, their changes, Billy inking him, and whatever else had happened. Eventually, she closed her eyes again and took a deep breath in attempts to steady herself. Rex (5:23:58 PM): "Oh no, Ant. You don't have to appologize, you didn't do anything." He held her close, he was always there for support when needed. He rubbed her shoulder sincerely as she shuddered in his grasp. Antony (5:59:41 PM): Antony made a rodent-esque noise before nosing his neck a bit before burying her face in it once more, tightening her grip somewhat with her tails. Rex (10:38:09 PM): Rex held her tight, it was nice to have another body to hold and hug. The thought of having someone in his arms again caused a feeling to arise somewhere deep inside him. The rolling rumble filled his body and Rex soon found the roll to give his muscles an aching pain. "Mmm.." Rex moaned, trying to push the exponentially growing soreness down while loosening his grip on the woman in his arms unintentionally. Antony (10:41:17 PM): The rumble, from her position, sounded more like a low purr of sorts (probably to comfort her) than a noise of forewarning. Coupled with the soft moan, Antony pulled back to look at him curiously, if not pleasantly surprised. Gently, she took a hand and brushed her thumb along his furry jawline. Rex (10:44:33 PM): Rex smiled nervously at her comforting smile and tried to wash away his pain with another drawled moan. He pounded his chest with a fist as if he was having some kind of heartburn. "Urrrhh... Sorry, I just... feel really horrible all the sudden." He collapsed his chest and released a quickened sigh while his heart beat wildly inside him. Antony (10:47:29 PM): She stared at him. No. He had been on the island for less time than she had, so this couldn't be a change right? Cautiously, she shifted and placed her hand on his forehead, sliding carefully off of his lap within seconds. "You're burning," Antony murmured, giving him a worried, but pointed, glance. Hopefully, he'd understand. Rex (10:57:00 PM): "Uurrhhh, yeah," His breathing changed into a rapid pant, this wasn't just some weird feeling of lost love, "I can feel it too-" And with that he fell to his knees and arched his back. The change now kicked into high gear, light fur began to spread rapidly across his arms, legs, and stomache. The burning itch of fur erupting from his skin was almost too much to bear. Rex scratched at it wildly, releasing uncontrolled grunts and roars in the process. The reddening skin became covered by more fur as trickling thin lines of blood begam to drip from the small wounds. As if the new body coat wasn't enough, his mane seemed to grow on it's own and the trail of hair from his head and shoulders ran further down his back and chest. "AGGHH!" Antony (10:59:53 PM): Instinctively, Antony scurried back and to the far end of the bed at the roars and grunts the predator was uttering. The squirrel was terrified, and Antony didn't even notice that she had frozen in place on her pillow, chest rising and falling as she simply watched him transform. If she didn't move, then he couldn't see her. Yeah... Right. Rex (11:07:57 PM): Next came his ears, Rex moaned in agony as he could feel them being pushed slightly farther back in his head than before. The changed shape and also itched insanely from the spreading of hair. Though that pain was considerably nothing compared to the stretching of his once flat feet. His foot stretched even more than they had already been, giving his legs the familiar digitigrade appearance of all felines. More moans and loud rumbled screams could be heard from the foot of the bed. Rex writhed in pain, wishing that it would just stop. His heart was pounding harder than ever before and his mind raced, he couldn't stay in here. Too cramped... too tight... too small. I have to get control!Antony (11:14:16 PM): "Rex?" She managed to finally pipe out after what seemed like forever. Despite the squirrel's instinctive fear, Antony had managed to override the animal inside her so she could help her friend. Ever so carefully, she crawled closer to him, tails flicking nervously behind her. Once she reached him, the squirrel woman cautiously reached out to... Well, pet him. "Anything I can do?" She asked timidly. Upon further inspection of the changes, she decided that his seemed way less awkward looking that she did with the mane. He looked more like a lion than a man, but it seemed to fit. It was weird. Rex (11:29:43 PM): Her words drifted to blocked ears as his mind was too paniked and hectic to even comprehend communication of any kind. He fought ferociously against his animal instincts but to hardly any avail. Then the scent of Antony's approching wafted into his flared nostrils, followed by the sight of her claw out of the corner of his eye. Rex jolted his fierce glare to the squirrel on the bed, roaring loudly as expected. The pain seen in his countenence was pierced with the sight of his growing fangs and the drizzle of uncontrolled tears running down his cheeks. His canines stretched to remarkable lengths and gave his expression an exotic sense of danger. Rex grunted and huffed a few more times, scrambling to his feet slamming his clawed fists into the end of the bed wear Antony sat. He could smell her emotion as though it was a simple delicacy plucked from the air by his nostrils. The smell of flesh and fur was just too tempting. Rex licked his lips primitively and reached a paw out to the woman before "NO!" His human mind regained control and he threw his body back against the wall away from the bed. He couldn't hurt her, he had to leave before he did anything he didn't desire to happen. The heaving, sweaty, bloody mess of fur and fangs stood somewhat majestically at the end of the bed. An odd combination of hunger and worry graced his face savagely until Rex made a break for the door. Leaving his only parting words, "ANTONY I'M SORRY!" with a slam behind him. Rex ran across the village and crumpled in a heap just outside his duplex, too exhausted to move and too worn out to care. Antony (11:35:02 PM): Antony made a barking noise of danger and backed up from the predator at the end of her bed. Her red eyes were wide in fear and she was only able to watch the speedy events of his internal battle take place before he zoomed out the door. Everything would register soon enough.
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Sabin Duvert Vice Captain
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Posted: Fri Sep 08, 2006 11:38 pm
The next time Rex wakes up, he feels groggy, as if his head were stuffed with cotton.... or as if he has recently been buzzed.
There is the smell of rotten meat, which eerily enough seems to stir your stomach, which growls in hunger. Edging your eyes open, you see ... carnage. old skeletons, some still "gooey". and a strange collection of rocks - some of which are painted in strange symbols.
But, when you try to move... you can't.
You look down, and see that you are tighly bound, tied in ropes around a strange structure. You can barely breathe, the ropes are quite tight - and certainly can't draw a deep enough breath to shout loudly or roar. The ropes are rough, and chafing.
Furthermore... you notice a great deal of ... hair clippings... scattered over your chest... and one of your hands really hurts - specifically a driving pain in your palm, as if you've been stabbed.
The long and the short of it, you've been tied to Kaveri's shrine with thick hemp ropes. Your mane has been completely shaved off, and there is a very thick splinter stuck in your right palm. But, with how you're tied, you can't reach it.
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Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 6:52 pm
Tug of War Gaius Harper Having dumped his things in the duplex, Gaius had taken the morning to nap and settle in. He was a bit disappointed to find the room had no kind of kitchen, but that made sense with the cafeteria nearby. Invigorated by his nap and feeling great aside from the injection spot that still itched a bit, Gaius'd decided to take a look at what the village provided. He wandered between the multiple duplexes, never catching any sight of other staff or actors around. Most likely busy with their own duties. However, the city boy felt drawn to the jungle at the edge of the clearing. This was what he had to work with for the park, after all. This jungle was the heart of the theme, embodying the thrill and inhuman monsters Sabin spoke of so enthusiastically. Gaius walked along the edge of the treeline, watching the shadows and wondering just what kind of animals actually lived in there. Zachary Bloodstone Rustle, rustle.Six months gone and six months different. It was hard to really put a claw - or finger, as they used to be - down on when he'd really felt his thoughts and personality change, as they seemed slower than the physical ones. His nervousness had melted away some, leaving him with anger. But right now, he was certain that his pining for the trees (among other things) was no product of his humanity. He didn't want to be out too much longer, or he was afraid he'd never leave the humid shade of the jungle. His skin was tougher in most places thanks to the scales, so rather than take the usual paths he made his own. It was much more solitary, and the less people he met the better. He felt the tips of his toes, wings, and tail start to tingle as numbness set into them. At the very least he didn't twitch as much now. Grumbling a noise that sounded half like a cat and half like a lizard, he pushed aside some plantlife, and walked right into a guy he'd never seen before in his life. Gaius Harper Gaius didn't even see it coming as something jumped right out of the bushes and ran into him. "Oomf!" He fell back a step, waving his arms to steady himself and ward off whatever'd barreled into him. Balance restored, he finally regained enough composure to see what was standing in front of him. Gaius froze, and gawked. This man - at least it resembled a man - was dressed in what had to be the most realistic costume Gaius had ever seen. Red scales that actually pushed out above his skin, frills glued to his jaw, the snout, the claws, the eyes! This was one of the monsters Sabin'd talked about! It took a moment for Gaius to catch himself staring, though it was with fascination rather than fear. A grin broke across his face. "That... is AMAZING! Is it hard wearing all that makeup? I had no idea the costumes were going to be so realistic, but with the rest of the facilities, I guess I shouldn't have expected anything less than nearly life-like!" Forgetting his manners in his excitement, Gaius grabbed at one of Zach's clawed hands with the intent to shake it warmly. "I hope I didn't damage anything when I ran into you! Hey, are those wings on your back?" Zachary Bloodstone "Hey!" Zach bounced backward as well, his frill open as wide as it could go. His tail snapped around his feet a couple of times. He itched to snap forward and bite, but by then the other person had backed off. Slitted eyes darted here and there, sizing up the man in front of him. At the same time, he brushed himself off as though unconsciously trying to rid himself of the feeling of another human being. If he were a man of stronger morals, Zach would almost have felt guilty for the similar sounding lie he told Hirohito. Almost. It wasn't hard to guess who'd told the guy this tale. "That'sss- um... well, you sssee..." He just couldn't say it to the guy. He'd been in a newcomer's place before, and quite honestly they never believed it. It wasn't worth telling the guy. He smiled a very fake smile back, exposing the huge canines and sharp teeth. His changes had made him so nervous about how he looked. God, he needed that new hat soon. "Costumesss? Oh, yeah." He let his scaly left hand be shaken, wiggling his claws around to keep from stabbing the brown-haired guy's own hands. His expression was still a little dumbstruck. He glanced down at the man's hands, looking for cuts. "I'm fine. Uh, are you okay though? And yeah... thessse are wingsss. Like them, huh?" He flapped them a little, though his wingspan wasn't impressively long. Gaius Harper Gaius stared with wonder at the moving frills and tail. He could only imagine what kind of motors were rigged up inside to get that kind of realistic movement. "Like them? They're awesome! Kinda small, but their movement is so real!" He stared as the dragon-man flapped them. Letting the hand go, Gaius fidgeted. He wanted to run a hand over the scaley texture and see if it felt as real as it looked - the hand certainly had. The actor seemed a bit self-conscious though, and that reminded Gaius of his own nerves. Jamming his hands into his pockets to keep them still, he offered a friendly smile to the fiersome-mawed face. "My name's Gaius... You can probably tell I'm new here. I'm going to be working on some of the architecture design." He sniffed, pulling a hand out to wipe his nose before pocketing it again. He couldn't get over how real those slitted eyes were. He almost swore he could see the pupils dilating and contracting. It was almost a bit unnerving. "So, uh, do you tend to wear all that often, then? Or is it just easier to leave it on when off-duty?" Rex Vadnais As the days passed since his last change, Rex fought his new instincts while trying to remain human and keep to his old routine. But recently the only thing he felt like doing was eating and sleeping. Rex figured that while they may have been turning him into some cat, they couldn't take all of the humanity in his mind.
So after his typical run along the beach Rex fumbled clumsily on his new feet through the jungle; the smell of lunch in the cafeteria acted as his guiding light through the dense foliage. He couldn't wait to sink his fangs into a juicy, rare flank of meat! Though a sound to the side seemed to distract him, two voices. One sounded vaguely familiar, though the other was completely new.
No longer thinking with his stomache, Rex adjusted his course just slightly enough to come crashing through the underbrush around the same place Zach had emerged minutes before.
The first thing Rex saw was the bulk of red with the despicable sneering face of a certain dragon he hated to remember. Though soon enough he noticed the other man; an exhuberant (if not awkward) smile leaked from his countenence.
"Zach." Rex said flatly. He couldn't focus on the other man at the moment. Zachary Bloodstone "Oh, you have no idea how real," he smiled, folding them against his back again. "It'sss easssy to figure out who'sss new here - they're the people that don't look or act like animalsss. And, uh, thisss? I wear it a lot. I don't think you'll ever sssee me without it." He turned his head at the sound of footsteps, ignoring Gaius for a moment, and narrowed his eyes at the lion as Rex approached them. Though the reasons for his contempt had long since faded into flitting memory, he knew that there had been reasons. It was good enough for him. He was silent for a moment, contemplating his words. His face lit up with an idea. "Rexsss!" he smirked, his voice sinisterly enthusiastic. "What great timing! I was jussst talking to Gaiusss here-" He made a casual wave of his hand at the nearby man - "about our cossstumesss. Why don't you tell him about yoursss?" He crossed his arms. This felt better than sinking his teeth into the furball ever could have been. Gaius Harper Gaius was was about to ask another question about the fins when another figure appeared from the jungle, this one dressed up as a very convincing lion. And it seemed the two knew each other, as the lion addressed the dragon as 'Zach.' However, the following exchange left the man at a loss. The lion, 'Rex' as he was named by Zach, didn't look happy to see his co-worker. And Gaius could almost swear he heard a note of jeering in Zach's voice as he spoke. Still, he was being introduced, and Gaius was ever one to want to make a good first impression. He offered a small wave to the lion, though he didn't offer a hand. "Um, hey! Good to meet you... You two know each other...?" Rex Vadnais "Unfortunately." Rex said flatly once again in regards to this Gaius' question. Though before the lion-man had the chance to elaborate on the subject, Zach's comment registered in his head.
"Costumes? What in the world are you talking about, Zach?" Rex sighed, seeing this oaf obviously hadn't changed a whole lot in the head since their last encounter. However, his exterior had certainly become quite a bit more reptilian. Rex grabbed a fistful of the thick fur trailing from his mane onto his chest by the cross of his necklace, tugging it as though he was uprooting a carrot. Though the fur stayed put, anchored into his skin as deeply as the very hair on his head. "This isn't a costume. Unfortunately, I can't exactly say that any of ours are."
Rex wiped the beads of sweat from his excerise on his brow that at clung to the fur on his face and sighed before turning to Gaius, talking as though he'd known the stranger his whole life, "Just ignore this guy. He kind of has a repution of ill will on newcomers." Rex certainly hadn't forgotten the day on the beach so many months ago. Poor Nita was terrified. Zachary Bloodstone Zach only kept smiling like a crocodile. He'd expected some sort of rebuttal from Rex. He clapped his mismatched hands together, but couldn't contain all of his malice. His tail flicked back and forth, though with every unintentional twitch it seemed to get number. He shuffled a little closer to Gaius. "Sssee? Rexss is a natural at acting. Sssometimesss he getsss a little too into it, though." "Not cossstumesss? I know they look pretty real, but they're not that convincssing." Silently he yearned for the earlier days when he'd have believed the lies he was putting out. He eyed Rex again. Last time he'd seen him, the guy had been pretty hairy, but only now did he look like a large cat, rather than a man with ravaging case of hypertrichosis. "Lisssten, maybe you should drop the act for a little while, he'sss new here." His facade crumbled slightly when he frowned at the last comment. "Oh?" Gaius Harper Gaius's smile was slowly fading as the two animal men talked. His eyes widened as Rex tugged on the hair of his mane. "N-not costumes...?" If all that hair wasn't a costume... what else could it be? "But... Sabin..." he protested feebly. Zach's smooth words were enough to assure Gaius's confused mind, though, and he managed a small chuckle. "Right. Acting..." Still, Rex had pulled pretty hard on his hair... And Zach's hand when he shook it... Besides that, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was a vendetta going on right over his head between the two. But Sabin had said there were actors who really got into character. Maybe this was some kind of initiation prank? Rex Vadnais "Pft, c'mon, I ain't no actor." Rex started, his fuse shorter with Zach than it was for other people, "We all know that these aren't just costumes. Heck, you think I'd go for a run in this costume by my own will?" Rex laughed as if only to reasure with himself that this wasn't a dream. Sure being a lion was cool and all, but he couldn't help but miss the mainland deep down. Rex looked to Gaius' face hoping to see a grin of agreement.
But he couldn't help but feel some confusion or discomfort eluding from the man.
It was only then Rex realised what Zach said. "He'sss new here."
"Wait... dude... you do know about this island, right?" Rex began to panic, he'd never broken the news of the island to someone before. He remembered how traumatic it'd been for him and Avery on their arrival. Please tell me you're just playing along... Zachary Bloodstone Ah, there was the key word. No one else would bother with the elaborate stories. He addressed Gaius again, ignoring the nervousness that was creeping into the onlooker's voice as he watched the squabble. "Hah, I knew you weren't that gullible. I mean, who are we really kidding? There'sss no sssuch thing as 'animal people'." The numbness had been creeping slowly up his tail muscles, and even part of the way into his wings, leaving them fairly motionless and almost nonexistant in his mind. Some part of him was a little disturbed not to feel anything from those new parts of him. Whether or not he liked it, he was growing used to being something other than human. Zach could barely conceal his laughter when he heard Rex gearing up to explain the truth about the island. "Oh no, not thisss story again... you want to give him nightmaresss?" Gaius Harper Gaius had to admit, all that fur had to be pretty dang hot in the tropical heat. But then, there were people in suits in the parks around Florida... "What do you mean, 'by your own will'?" he asked with unmasked confusion. When Rex asked him about the island, Gaius just shrugged, explaining, "I'm hired to work here as an architect on the island theme park. It's supposed to be a thriller-action-adventure theme based around the jungle and primal monsters... er, what I supposed you guys are supposed to be." Zach's encouragement only helped cement Gaius's faith in the story he'd been told. Sure, he'd been gullible in the past, but he wasn't about to be taken in again, even with such a... confusing ruse. The mention of a story did intrigue him, though. "A...story? About the island?" His eyes darted between the two men, unsure of where his trust really lay. Rex Vadnais Now a certain dragon was beginning to really get on Rex's nerves, "ZACH! Just SHUT UP for ONCE!" The deep rumble of a roar in the making resounded from Rex's bared lips. His fangs were long, sharp, and visible. Claws were flicked open to reveal a set of several daggers literally at his fingertips and the viscious glare of the lion looked out from Rex's blue eyes.
Then as if that didn't happen, Rex returned to normal, trying to speak in a casual and calm voice to Gaius as a human. Not as the beast he knew he was. His voice was sincere and worried, yet another soul was condemmed to the island. "Man... well..." Rex struggled for the correct way to word it, he'd never told anyone something as important as 'your life is changed forever.' He had to be straight with him.
"Gaius. Everything that you've been told about this island is... is a lie. There is no amusement park or whatever you were told, we're not actors, these aren't costumes." Rex sighed and massaged the bridge of his nose, dropping his gaurd and losing focus. "Um, this island is run by some nutcase that goes by the name of Moreau. We're all just his little pets, everyone here used to be human... but he's changing us all into animals."
He felt like he was telling someone a family member died, only ten times worse. With a sigh, "You're... you're never going home, Gaius." Zachary Bloodstone For once, the dragon held his tongue, but there was still laughter in his slightly crinkled eyes. Those claws probably meant business, he figured. It was just a little sobering. For a moment, Rex wasn't just a big mangy cat, but a huge bloodthirsty brown bear... he shook his head, squeezing his eyes shut for a moment. The story was as disheartening as ever. No escape, no future, just life as an animal. As if it hadn't been said fifty times before. Someone must have forgotten to just make the introduction pamphlets. A Guide To Survival on a Mad Scientist-Run Island, that's what they needed around here. Nevertheless, Zach knew that the truth could be weak. After a lengthy pause, he started to clap, slowly, picking up speed. He was grinning again, displaying his own set of daggers. "Encore, Rexss!" "To be or not to be, that isss the question!" Zach bellowed dramatically, raising a hand to mockingly hold a skull. He made to stifle his laughter with his hand, but with a mouth so long it wasn't as concealing as it used to be. He put a hand on Rex's furry shoulder and leaned his head down, still giggling. Gaius Harper The architect felt rather awkward, finding himself between the two in what must have been some kind of rivalry. Rex's display of temper made him jump, taking a step back. Maybe... Maybe there was some truth... No one should be able to roar like that, should they? And the extending claws... He'd caught a glimpse of the teeth in the lion's mouth, and they sure looked firmly planted in his gums. "Wait..." Gaius said after Rex had finished his explanation. "What? Lies...? ...Moreau? I... I think I saw the name mentioned in the funding information for the job..." He was struggling to put sentences together. Everything was jumbled in his head. There was no way it could be true, yet everything looked to real to not be true. "But... I'm just here until the project is finished..." he floundered. Turning at the dragon's mocking voice, Gaius watched as he jeered at the lion. Something... seemed off. "This... this all has to be a joke, right?" He glanced between the two weakly, hoping against hope that that was the case. Rex Vadnais Rex sighed as his gut sunk to his toes and he got a weird clotted feeling in his throat. All he could do was just ignore Zach and hope he'd go away, "I wish it were just a joke. And I really hate to say it but... it's not." Rex was glad he was beginning to win Gaius over to his side.
"What'll it take to prove to you that this is real." Rex sighed anxiously, worried that Zach would retailiate with another misleading comment. "I can't take this off!" He moaned, tugging at the thick mane of hair and his long tail. "Look, there is no zipper. See for yourself!" He turned slowly like a chicken on a rotisserie, modeling as proof that this his feline features were indeed not make-up. Zachary Bloodstone Zach let go of Rex's shoulder to wipe a tear from his eye. He hadn't laughed that hard in... well... in all honesty he didn't remember laughing at all since before he'd arrived on this rock. Rex did look geninely worried at this point, but he was making it even harder by pointing out that there were no seams to his apparent 'costume'. Was it really worth keeping up the little game, just for the sake of a little fun? "Fine," he wheezed, still grinning wickedly. "Fine, Rexss." After taking a couple deep breaths to assumably gather his thoughts, he turned to Gaius with a completely serious face. "Gaiusss... Rexss is right. This placsse really is a mad scientist'sss little exssperiment. And you're going to become an animal, jussst like me and Rexss, and all the other people here. You're not leaving. None of us are. Ever. You just have to get usssed to it." He gave it time to sink in. The corner of his mouth twitched a little. But after a while, he couldn't hold it in any longer, bursting into loud hissing laughter, holding his forehead as he shook with mirth. "You- oh god - how do you keep a ssstraight facsse when- when you sssay that ssstuff?" Gaius Harper Gaius's face fell. Yes... the fur did look real, especially with a closer inspection. He could almost see the pores that they grew out from! "But... I don't see how that's even possible..." His hopes continued to fall apart as it seemed even Zach joined in the story. He let his head drop, trying to absorb everything they were saying. Never going home... The sudden burst of laughter snapped Gaius's head up, staring wide-eyed at the dragon-man. It had been a joke?! A bright flush colored Gaius's cheeks as he glared ashamedly at the two. "Dangit, you guys! Quit leading me on! Sure, you probably have a blast doing this to all the new guys, but really!" He shook his head, letting his scowl soften to a rueful grin. "You definitely had me going... Heh! I bet they stick the hair to you guys with some kind of glue that only comes off with a special solvent! Yeah, nice joke on the new guy." Rex Vadnais Rex's spirits rose, glad that Gaius was finally accepting his explanation and happy that Zach was finally giving in to the poor new guy as well.
Until Zach's last comment and Gaius following his lead.
Rex snarled wildy, the lion taking control of his mind for the first time in a long while. Rex roared wildly and planted a hard right hook on Zach's long jaw, "SHUT UP, YOU a*****e!" An increased panic followed as his heart raced and the lion continued to grunt primitively.
NOT letting that happen again, the Human Rex thought, shoving the lion's instincts back down into his gut before turning to Gaius. "What'll it take to make you believe me?!" Rex pleaded, a tone of desperation filled his voice. Zachary Bloodstone Zach was still laughing, till the punch sent him reeling. He backed up a couple of steps into a tree, his hands frantically grasping at his elongated face. The hot and painful taste of blood filled his mouth, and something painfully snagged on his tongue, forcing him to spit out a blood-covered tooth, wickedly sharp. There was blood pouring from his nose, too, the underdeveloped nasal passages yielding to even the smallest accidental pains. What had been just red-tinged skin pulled over his bizarre skull was now a mess of dripping crimson, coming from places that could never bleed on a costume. He gave a quiet gurgle of shock, unable to make his usual amount of small talk with his mouth in so much pain. Between his grasping fingers it was obvious he was bleeding from where the tooth had been knocked clean out. Gaius Harper Gaius stared wide-eyed. "No way..." That blood... It was streaming out of his snout. "No, that... that doesn't make sense!" He tried to fight the truth, but it was spitting a tooth out right in front of him. Ever trace of merriment dropped, leaving him standing there feeling empty and lost. "Please... No... This... It's real?" He looked from Zach to Rex, the one who'd apparantly been the 'honest' one. "But... a scientist... animal-people... this only happens in movies and books! I-I can't be a part of this!" Rex Vadnais "Gaius... I'm sorry..." Rex panted, trying to regain his calm. He saw the blood spilling from Zach's jaw and the took that had been expelled from his mouth. Rex's heart wrenched, he couldn't stand to see blood or pain from anyone. He sucked up the mixed emotions created at the sight of blood, one of which was hunger, and went to the man's side. "Zach let me help. You need to get cleaned up... I'm sorry, I- I just couldn't hold it!" He felt bad for his actions, even though he knew that Zach deserved it.
"And Gaius... I... UGH! This is so hard, I'm so sorry..." Zachary Bloodstone "Oh, id'sss real all right," he grumbled at Gaius, continuing to clamp his hands against his bleeding snout. His false friendliness was gone entirely. The bleeding obscured some of his speech, making it sound like he had a bad cold. "You bedder be hoping you god a nice fuzzy mammal like Regsss." As soon as Rex approached him Zach's eyes narrowed, the shadow of something wild and solitary in his expression. He shifted his hands so that one of them could keep pressure on the side of his mouth, while the other blood-covered hand lashed forward in warning, fingers curved ever so slightly An odd growling, hissing sound rumbled from his throat. "Ged away frumb be!" He winced, straining his jaw too much. The blood was still trickling unchecked from his mouth and nose. He needed a towel, and soon. Gaius Harper Unthinking, Gaius took a step forward, automatically moving to help Rex with Zach, before the dragon hissed and swiped at him. He stopped, staring at the two as if he was seeing them for the first time. The dragon with the stretched out and now broken nose, and frills sprouting all over him, and the lion, his face almost indistinguishable from an animal's. These guys used to be human. Like him. "Good God..." he breathed. "I'm going to be a monster..." It all hit him at once. There was no going home. He'd never see his family again. And the scientists were going to reduce him to a raving animal, just like Zach and Rex. It was like he was hit with a physical blow. Stumbling back, Gaius caught himself on a tree, breathing hard and staring sightlessly ahead. "This... This can't be real... My life... My friends..." Rex Vadnais Rex stopped outside of the striking range of Zach after he took a swipe at him. Apparently Zach was as heartless as he thought. "Fine, Zach. Bleed to death." A loathing sneer replaced his expression of anxiety that occupied his face moments before. If he didn't want the help, he wouldn't get it.
Instead, Rex shifted his focus to Gaius who has suddenly collapsed onto a nearby tree. "Oh no..." He ran to the human's aid instead, unfortunately Rex didn't have a whole lot that he could say. "Gaius, I- I know it's hard, but it's true..." He sighed, motioning for Gaius to sit back against the tree trunk as Rex crouched to his knees to comfort the man.
All of his experience on the island had taught Rex to not bring up the changes, but he couldn't help but blurt out. "Listen... the changes aren't so bad. I mean... well it sucks, but you get used to them. You'll live through it..." He was at a loss for words, too washed up by the large spectrum of emotion that he'd just been put through. "...and hey, life here isn't so bad! I mean, who can say that they got to spend their whole life on a tropical island." He couldn't help but feel like his pathetic attempts of cheering up the man were futile. His shoulders collapsed and he burried his head into his hands. The only thing heard behind his forming tears was a muffled "I"m sorry... so sorry..." Zachary Bloodstone Zach looked over at Gaius with an incredulous tone to his voice. "Id took you thad long to ged id, huh? Look, I tried to keeb you frumb finding oud. I really did. I don' sssubbose you'd have been ignorand for much longer dan a few daysss, bud really... you'll wish you had been. Any amound of time longer den duh day you god here." His voice gathered some curiosity. "You... did say 'Sssabin' earlier, righd? Did he gib you duh shot?" He hissed at Rex again. "I don' need your helb." At this point the numbness of his tail had spread right up to the beginning of his tailbone, leaving the entire structure of scale, bone, and muscle entirely limp and unfeeling. It was extremely uncomfortable, and there wasn't much to do about it. As much fun as he'd been having at the expense of the pair's fragile emotional states, he'd reached the end of it. The last thing he really wanted now was to be hanging around in a pool of blood while they cried on each others' shoulders. Gaius Harper Gaius continued to shake his head, trying to dispell the reality around him. He couldn't bring himself to look at Rex, though he mumbled a lie about being alright. Zach's derogatory tone dragged him out of his gloom, making him finally look up and ackowledge the scaled man. The previous despair was washed away, anger igniting instead. Gullible, he'd said earlier. Yes, Gaius had been gullible once again. Taken in by Sabin and Zach's forked tongues. "Yes," he grunted, "It was Sabin." Pushing himself up off of the tree, Gaius tentatively placed a hand on Rex's shoulder to try and show there were no hard feelings. He wondered at how he could have missed the fur growing right from Rex's skin. "Thanks... for being honest. I need some time... to think..." Rex Vadnais Sabin was a name that he'd heard used several times since his arrival at the island, though he'd never had the "pleasure" of actually getting to meet the b*****d. From what he'd heard he was one of the most despicable doctors on this rock, I wonder what he's like... probably some creep...
Rex let his hands drop and came to a stand once again as Gaius put his hand on his shoulder. "I totally understand, dude..." He looked into the man's eyes and sighed, disappointed that he couldn't do more to help. "Listen... I'm in duplex 35 if you ever need help around here. I'll try to help however I can." In the end, he'd truly forgotten about rough it was to be on the island. The lead quite pampered and refurbished lives in the end. But it was still hard to be happy. "I'm here for you." Zachary Bloodstone Zach continued to hold his bleeding face in his hands. The smell and taste of the blood was driving him crazy, even though he knew it was his own. Despite himself, he smirked when Gaius confirmed what Zach thought he'd heard. Grimacing, he stopped leaning against the tree. While Rex and Gaius had their heart-to-heart, he stole away toward his duplex, across the village, without another taunting word, his face slick with red. His tail dragged along the dirt behind him. Other than a swollen jaw and a couple of laughs, he'd gained nothing, and even now the laughs didn't seem worth the pain. Gaius Harper "Thanks..." he said to Rex's consoling. Zach's departure was completely ignored. "I'm in duplex 62. Right now, I think I just need a chance to let this all settle. Everything's mixed up inside... I'm not sure what I feel," he sighed. Giving the lion one last pat - it felt strange to actually come in contact with the half-creature - he turned away and made his own way towards the higher numbers, where his pillow and a blank ceiling waited. Rex Vadnais Rex nodded understandingly and didn't even give Zach's dragging away a second thought. Rex needed some time to think, he couldn't imagine having to give that talk ever again after having such an awkwardly traumatic encounter. "Anytime, bud..."
He did his best thinking in the water, so he dirged his way to the river to let the healing freshwater run through his fur. In his opinion, it was better than any shower could do.
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Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 7:00 pm
The Stone Table Sabin Duvert The next time Rex wakes up, he feels groggy, as if his head were stuffed with cotton.... or as if he has recently been buzzed. There is the smell of rotten meat, which eerily enough seems to stir your stomach, which growls in hunger. Edging your eyes open, you see ... carnage. old skeletons, some still "gooey". and a strange collection of rocks - some of which are painted in strange symbols. But, when you try to move... you can't. You look down, and see that you are tighly bound, tied in ropes around a strange structure. You can barely breathe, the ropes are quite tight - and certainly can't draw a deep enough breath to shout loudly or roar. The ropes are rough, and chafing. Furthermore... you notice a great deal of ... hair clippings... scattered over your chest... and one of your hands really hurts - specifically a driving pain in your palm, as if you've been stabbed. The long and the short of it, you've been tied to Kaveri's shrine with thick hemp ropes. Your mane has been completely shaved off, and there is a very thick splinter stuck in your right palm. But, with how you're tied, you can't reach it. Rex Vadnais The lingering stench of rotting flesh and and pungent blood was the first thing the caused the lion to creak open an eye. Rex's empty stomach twisted and growled hungerly; the smell of food was strong enough to wake him from unconsciousness. And while it was the corpses' scent that caused him to awaken, it wasn't enough to hold his attention away from the bone-splitting pain through paw.
A rumbling groan of pain was all he could manage for the time being. He was far too groggy to be fully conscious. His head hurt and he felt a breezier tingle along his body. It wasn't long before he realized his condition. Rex huffed in shock, seeing the thick locks of his mane spread all around his body and on the ground. The binding ropes rubbed deep and tight into his skin and there was already some visible irritation and chaffing. "What in the..."
The haze of his mind was still dense as if he had a painful migrane, but he could think clear enough to realize this was not a happy place or a dream. The scattered bodies of assorted animals surrounded the giant slab he was on. He tried to look over at his hand, but only saw blood and hair. He couldn't stay like this...
"Help..." he coughed meekly, before trying once again with a bit more oomfph, "Help!" Kaveri Porter When the vulture's away, the cat's out to... play? Depends on your definition of 'play.' Today was pretty much the usual, making the 'rounds' through the jungle looking for dead things to drag home. Today, though, Kaveri decided to head home early. She had plenty of other things left to eat, anyhow. As she nears her clearing, she catches a cry for help -- in fact, it sounded like it was actually coming from her clearing! Had some newcomer accidentally stumbled upon her humble shrine not knowing what to expect? Kaveri came closer, stepping through the shrubbery and into the bare spot of red-tainted earth. What she saw, however, was not anything she expected and the sight confused her: A lion man, like what Zach had warned Sid about not long before. She froze, clutching her walking stick as she took a hesitant step forward. "What are you doing here?" Rex Vadnais After a few more calls of help he was surprised to find that someone actually heard his plea. Rex strained his neck back to see the large, strange, bird-thing emerge from the forest. He wasn't sure if he'd ever met the.... person before, but he also felt he'd remember someone of such radical prescence. "Oh my Lord, I'm glad you've come..." Rex sighed sharply, wincing in the pain in his hand.
Being tied to a shrine in the jungle with a giant splinter stabbed into his hand wasn't exactly Rex's idea of fun; his temper was short and he nearly snapped back at the woman's remark, though he managed to suppress it. "I... I don't know, I just woke up here like this... Could you please help me a bit?" He begged throatily, finding it quite constraining to be pinned by the ropes. The pain made it hard to think, let alone formulate sentences. Thankfully Rex could stay strong for the most part... Kaveri Porter The vulture folded her neck, hobbling over to sit down on her mattress and gaze curiously at the lion-man. While she couldn't get over how odd this entire situation was, Kaveri couldn't help but to wonder if this was the dangerous lion man that Zach was talking about. "How do I know you're not going to eat me if I let you go?" Kaveri asked, resting a hand on her knee. "I can guarantee you I taste like s**t if you tink I'm going to make for a good turkey." With a scant few exceptions, Kaveri didn't feel inclined to easily trust any felines. A bird knows trouble when it sees it. "Hmm... I can help you 'a bit,' like you asked." Her silver eyes wandered towards the large thorn in his paw. She got up and reached for it, squeezed her two fingers around, and gave a tug to the thick wooden splinter. Rex Vadnais Rex fought hard to keep his face sincere and honest, though it was hard not to scowl when you're tied up, bald and bleeding. Especially when there's help sitting next to you, but they aren't willing to relieve you of your pain. "Please..." Rex begged with a quaver in his voice and his eyes slowly welling up.
"Do I look like I'm in any condition to eat you? I promise I won't, it's not like I tie myself up in the jungle just for kicks. And I'm no cannibal... Yeah we're both animals, but we were both also human at some point... Please cut the ropes, it's- it's unbearable." Forming those sentences through his searing discomfort across his whole body was harder than he'd expected, but Rex had to make a good case in order to persuade the stubborn and cautious bird-thing.
He was glad that she would at least pull the enormous splinter from his paw. Rex shut his eyes tight, tensed his muscles and groaned through the torture of getting it removed. But when it was finally free he sighed in relief and relaxed if only for a moment. "Thank you." Rex winced, happy the source of most his pain was gone. Kaveri Porter "You're welcome." Kaveri picked up a bloodied bone-knife off the ground. It was true, the lion-man did look rather ragged -- and it was obvious that someone else put him there. Who could tie THEMSELVES up? "I taste like s**t," she reminded as she walked over to him and slowly began cutting the ropes around his chest (manipulating a knife with two fingers is no easy task, after all). He looked like he was having trouble breathing, and Kaveri didn't want to be responsible for him if he wound up having any serious problems for it. "So who did dis to you?" Rex Vadnais Rex's face became washed with happiness whe she picked up the knife to begin cutting the bonds. "Oh thank you so much, you're a savior." He dropped his head back limply onto the rock, partially so he wouldn't get nervous watching her fumble with the bloody knife around his body.
"I- I don't know who did this," so far, Rex hadn't had much time to think about it. Las thing he remembered he was laying in his bed to nap. How in the world could he get all the way out here. It was obviously someone who had the power to move him out here, and then keep him knocked out. Was he drugged? Smacked unconscious? That could explain the seering headache. "I don't remember a thing..." Kaveri Porter "First time anyone's called me dat," the vulture laughed dryly. She hummed as she continued meticulously working at the ropes, shifting the knife to her other hand once the first got tired. "Musta pissed somebody off..." Kaveri murmured, working down towards Rex's waist. "I heard from a friend not too long ago dat dere was a lion-man wandering around who was dangerous. Might dat be you?" She asked, picking up a clump of sheared mane in her free hand. "Not a bad haircut," she commented, rubbing the fur between her two fingers. Rex Vadnais "Uh... I don't think that I'm very dangerous... But I'm the only lion around that I know of. Maybe your friend was speaking of someone else." Of course Zach came to his mind, but he was in enough agony already. He didn't want to think about someone like Zach at the moment, it would only make him feel worse. He tried to push the memory out of his mind and stay focussed on his relinquishment.
Once the ropes restricting his arms were cut, he picked up his hands and examined the wound on his palm tenderly. There was no way his hand would be in commision for a while.
Then the woman commented on his hair. He subconsciously reached his good hand up to rub it's fuzzy surface. "It reminds me of my old football days..." Rex chuckled, trying to think of happy things to take his mind off all of the ache. Highschool's competetive sports were all fun, Julie came to all his varsity games. Oh no, don't think about her right now. It seemed as if all he could think of would give him greif of some form or another. He loved Julie and could only think of her affectionately, but he was still battling her death. Rex began to question if he could ever accept it.
"Does it look all that bad?" He'd seen those hairless cats before. No fun. Kaveri Porter "Possibly. I don't know all de cats around here." By now she figured that if the guy was going to jump her, he would have taken the opportunity long ago when she freed his arms. "Your old mascot wouldn't have happened to have been a lion would it?" The vulture smirked. "I was never one for sports myself. Dere was dat one soccer game dat happened a while ago here... but dat's pretty much de extent of it." Kaveri took a step back once she cut the remaining binds, still holding the knife and gazing upon the humiliating sight of a lion shorn. "Well... it's better dan what I look like, if dat's any consolation." Rex Vadnais Rex sat up and scutinized the wounds that had rubbed and bruised their way into his skin. They'd probably heal within a few days, but his hand was the most of his worries. Rex simply ignored the pain (something he'd gotten quite good at from pulled or sore muscles) and began to use his claw to widdle away at the thread of the ropes.
"Heh, naw, we weren't the lions." He huffed up in pride as he prepared to show his pride, "Grizzlies, baby!" Rex barked. He had to show his love for the school back home, even though he'd never even make it to the 10 year reunion.
"And yeah! I was in that soccer game, I was on Ambrose's team! We totally kicked butt." He smirked and continued to cut at the ropes, eventually cutting through his first one. Clawing wasn't as efficient at the sketchy knife, but it was good enough. "Now that I think about it... were you there?" Kaveri Porter This guy couldn't have possibly been the lion man Zach warned about. He just seemed too wholesome to be of any possible danger, although Kaveri was still cautious because she wasn't about to test how well the man kept his instincts in check. "My mascot was de cougar," she grinned sheepishly, "but I dropped out." It was the system's fault, not hers. "I don't even remember what team I was on, I had more fun after de game yelling at dat dickhead guy." Now it was Kaveri's turn to beam proudly! She still could throw a punch back then, even if it didn't land on its intended target. Rex Vadnais Rex stopped his picking in thought, having the distinct memory of the long-necked bird-woman running angrily toward Thom in the fight at the end of the game. "You know what? I do remember you from that soccer game. Why was everyone so mad, anyways? I don't even remember." Rex racked his brain for any little hint he could think of, but ended up shifting his attention to the blood leaking from his hand... "Ugh, I need to get this cleaned up. Last thing I want is some jungle infection..." Kaveri Porter "I don't even remember what all happened," Kaveri grinned, "I just like roughing s**t up. Shame I can't frow a punch anymore wif my stupid hands. But after de game was fun!" The vulture meaned over and gingerly touched his hand with a fingertip. "Dat looks really bad... I know de way back to de village," She offered him a hand to help him stand up. "Dey have first aid kits and stuff to help out wif dat." Rex Vadnais Rex's hand twitched with a split second of pain before he let her examine it further. Then he took her hand and came to his feet, subconsciously rubbing his head once again. Rex had gotten quite used to having all that hair up there, it was quite a drastic change to have it all gone. How long will it take to come back? Suddenly he felt like the "majectic"-ness of the lion had been taken away from him.
"Well in that case, ladies first!" Rex said while forcing a smile, he had to stay positive, it wasn't all that bad. He could only image how Zach felt back on his arrival at the island. Oh god no, don't think about that p***k. Kaveri Porter "I'll give you a tip should you wind back up here again," Kaveri said, straightening up and grabbing for her walking stick to get ready to lead him back. "Dere are painted rocks on de paf between here and de village, follow dem and you should be off in de right direction." She motioned for Rex to follow her, then pointed to one of the round, brightly-painted stones on the ground at the clearing's edge. Rex Vadnais "Cool..." Rex said, looking down the path of painted rocks. "Thanks for your help... I- I don't know how in the world I ended up here." He paused in thought, something about the whole situation seemed all too familiar. But he couldn't place a finger on where he got the feeling from. But why did Rex feel like he knew the situation before? And why was he chosen to receive such a punishment? Was is a punishment? He needed to rest.
"Ugh, anyways, I'll repay you someday. It would've bee practically impossible to get out of that on my own." He sighed and rubbed his wounds tenderly. "I guess I'll see you around." With that he turned to head back to the village until he remembered something.
"Oh... what is your name? I'm Rex." He smiled sweetly, his fangs protruding from his mouth. Kaveri Porter "No problem," Kaveri nodded, "Just know it wasn't I. I didn't even expect to come home and find a shorn lion in my place. Good luck wif your hand." "You can come back and visit any time you like," she offered to him, nodding her head. She honestly was surprised that he didn't seem perturbed at all by her choice of decoration, maybe he just hadn't noticed? "I'm Kaveri." The vulture tried to smile as best she could with her forming beak, feeling a bit awkward. Rex Vadnais "Kaveri. Glad to make it official." He took one more glance at the carcasses lying around and his stomach reminded him loudly of it's needs. "Thanks a million." With that he followed the pathway back into the village, his mind still pestering him with that distant memory.
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Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 9:34 pm
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