Sydney - Business District
This area had suffered the worst impact from the first Maverick assault and wasonce nearly reduced to rubble, but today the streets are free from ruin and the rebuilt Skyscrapers stand tall once again. The buildings that didn't survive the attack were demolished to allow room for others in their place. No matter where you look you'll see several sites in the stages of being half-built, or nearly complete. The newer office buildings reach heights that make the restored structures look quite small as these glass and steel giants around them cast their shadows over the streets during the late afternoon.
South <S> leads to Teleportation Area--Sydney.
East <E> leads to Sydney - Southern Downtown.
North <N> leads to Sydney - Commercial District.
West <W> leads to Sydney - Western Residential.
A stage has been set up at the front of a building audience, and the front is already packed with reporters. It looks a lot like the post that would be set for someone running for office, save that there is no specific candidate. What there is: are a few civlians, seated at the back end of the stage, watching a young, plain-looking woman, dressed in a grey skirt-suit, at the podium. Standing next to her is a much taller, crocodilian reploid. His arms crossed and his eyes gazing over the crowd, he seems almost like he's her secret service. The woman looks nervous...it's easy to see her eyes wandering through the crowd, her hands shaking slightly on the top of the stand.
Behind where she is standing, are a few other members of her movement... mostly human, there is certainly a humanoid reploid among them.
There are plenty of seats left available for civilian observers, but the seating is packed up front, video, still, and holographic cameras pointed at the nervious spokeswoman.
Bowie takes one of those aforementioned seats in the civilian section, close to the front and the center aisle without actually being in the press box. Surprise surprise, he's still alive.
Obviously, the royal Elite known as King can't just hide like the average sized Robot Master can... nor would he. Proud of his position, proud of his heritage, and proud of his Father, King stands towards the back of the crowd, staring out over the crowd. The golden armor glows in the available light... interestingly enough, it appears King is unarmed. A blast of wind whips by, throwing his royal red cape into the air behind him.
King's optics tightened down on the croc-reploid making himself aware of possible threats to him. King crosses his arms and angles his head up slightly... his optics occasionally glancing down his nose at the few people BRAVE enough to stay near the well known crown prince of the Robot Master Empire.
Wind Man stands at an inconspicuous place near the back of the crowd, but in front of King and a bit off to his right. One can't simply rely on the weather to provide suitably dramatic blasts of wind, after all.
It's amazing how long Bowie can live while being so suicidal. Alpha is much like that. Flexing her wings behind her, she yawns faintly as she walks towards Bowie, and...will actually try to sit down next to Bowie without a word.
Unlike King or Wind Man, Cut man is taking a little more...precuations. He has indeed disguised himself, taking out one of his favorite disguises and just...put it on.
Behold the Iron Cut! Just look at him! He's disguised as a french chef Reploid! No one will see thru THAT magnificent disguise! Of course, instead of the large chef hat, he just have a top one, and he's wearing a brown jacket. But it's still the same thing! Really! He'll melding in the crowd no problemo!
Bowie is not suicidal. He simply has several members of the Capule...er, Cossack family upset with him. Not to mention the X-Hunters. All right, maybe he is suicidal. Alpha is given a weak smile as she sits down next to him, and he scoots over a bit to give Angie and Necro enough room.
There's a man seated stage right that most will recognize as Greg Blake, credited author, protest leader. He's the one that's scanning the crowd with the most keen perception, looking out for individual faces past the throng of reporters. King... he spots right away. (Brave Master. This isn't San Angeles, after all.) Greg reaches to his pocket... runs his hands over a neglected pack of cigarettes, and idly thumbs the remote detonator that's hidden inside. To press, or not to press, in the presence of family...and if so... when?
He pulls the hand out again, and puts it in his lap, looking over to the podium, where Lisa is clearing her throat. She causes a bit of feedback in the mike, and, nods to the front row. Ready to start. A spotlight opens up on the stage, blinding her to the crowd...to her slight relief. It makes it easier for her to say, "Thank you all for coming."
The applause can be regarded as polite, yet not enthusiastic. There are too many questions, press posed with teeth gritted in the front row, ready to jump.
Unlike some other members of the crowd, Repliforce's key observer here is quite well hidden within the crowd here. The Spaniard is hidden here as someone the Masters might recognize, Xander Jones. Just some guy, a merc really, that happened to sit down to coffee one day with Bomb Man. He sits down in a chair and leans back, watching curiously. o0(This should be good.)
Alpha says, to Bowie, thoughtfully, "So....I haven't seen you around, and I guess that's my fault, but what have you been up to? ... Besides trying to get killed by X-Hunters, I mean." She glances towards the French chef. "...That guy looks stupid.", she comments. "I feel bad for him."
Bowie speaks quietly with Alpha, not wanting to disturb the people sitting nearby. "Doin whut needed t'be done," he answers. If that could be considered an answer. As the lecture/press conference begins to wind up, he turns his attention to the speaker, folding his arms across his chest. Idly he wonders if they'll be taking questions from the non-press audience.
Burn Dinorex is already at this little conference. Easily recognized, he stands, not sits, a few feet from Bolero, and a few feet from Bowie. HE's here to keep peace, at least, and does a polite clap. He remains silent as he takes in the unusual faces.
King waits patiently for the press conference to begin. His arms remain crossed and the Elite doesn't move much... simply waiting for something to happen. While some may regard King's obvious presence as a crazy maneuver, King remains confident that no one will start something with him... and if they do... well... King can defend himself as needed. Still, the android looks around and takes note of where the two Hunters are sitting along with the large Repliforcer known as Burn Dinorex.
"I'm here to provide you with a short presentation regarding the proposal we plan to present to the United Nations." Lisa speaks, not with a native Australian accent, but a lighter, British one...almost hard to hear, at first. She reaches for a button on her podium, and pushes it. A small projector...of the holographic variety, but low-tech by modern standards, starts to hum, ready to project onto the black area behind the speaker. "After that, we'll be taking any questions you might have." She does turn around and glance to the others at this point--the speech is prepared, questions, may not be, and she's obviously in need of the support. "I'll start by explaining my unique position. I'm here to explain to you why continued Reploid development is a bad idea for the nations of the world. However, I'm doing this... as a reploid designer, and as a friend to the race." She pauses, glances to the crocodile, and then continues... "I know that many of you are here to denounce our movement as racist. That really isn't the case. Our movement is based not on the destruction of the reploid race, but, on furthering peaceful lives for reploids through careful population control."
King smiles slightly as he listens to the speaker begin. A small smile crosses his face as she mentions controlling the reploid population. King considers that a United Nations control over the size of the Reploid population it would allow the Robot Masters an easier time to taking the planet. Yes... indeed this would be a good thing.
Wind Man crosses his arms as he listens to the presentation, showing no clear opinion on it either way. Like King, he glances around briefly to take note of what known potential threats are present in the audience, but shows no outward sign of his estimation on their significance. His fanblades spin idly as he communicates with his bretheren in a more cautious manner than the Hunters.
Despite being insulted for his bad disguise without him knowing it -- hey, he don't have super-advanced sensors! No way he can hear it! --, Iron Chef Cut Man listen to speaker. Hum...This gonna be intressing. But he wait for further informations before giving it much thought.
Alpha says, "You aren't going to try to kill her, are you?", casually as she listens to the 'peaceful protestor' that is a 'friend to the reploid race'. She looks towards King and adds, "By the way, there are Robot Master forces here. Obviously the protestors don't care about Robot Master presence. They may even be allied to Wily.", she pauses before adding, "Also, as it is an elite, there will be more of them. We should be careful.", she says her 'warning' in a softer, less obvious voice. She glances over to King again, spots Wind Man, and nods to Bowie.
Why...how could King suspect that? At least...when completely different reasoning is provided...
A chart appears in front of the holographic projector: an indication of reploid population growth since the race begun. The graph shows a steady incline. "These are the numbers of current reploid production, as they stand." The projector flashes again. "And this is the reploid death rate." The graphs seem to match fairly well. "This is probably not a surprise, but...what concerns me, and us, is this." She pushes another button, showing a pie chart. "According to current statstics, over a quarter of reploids created ...are destroyed, within two years of coming on line. The reasonings behind this are many. Pressure to enlist in Repliforce. And, of course... The Maverick Virus. It's only logical that reploid creation be carefully monitored...or, better yet, CEASED, until a cure for the Virus can be found." She raises a hand off the podium. "Look around you... and tell me that the Maverick threat is only in Europe. It's everywhere...and the most effective way to stop the threat is NOT to send more, young, innocent reploids out to be slaughtered!"
Bowie arches an eyebrow at Alpha. "Ah don't kill people jus cause Ah don't agree with 'em," he answers quietly. "Ah still have morals." To her warning about the surrounding RMs, he simply nods.
Bolero remains very quiet, watching the show as it progresses. This promises to be a most interesting display, eyes shifting about, observing the crowd. He blinks as he notices King, lips curling back as he watches the Elite carefully. No violent actions yet, but Bolero trusts King about as far as his human form can throw the giant. Much of his attention returns to the speaker again, though he does keep an eye on King now.
King continues to listen to the speaker talk about the situation. King laughs to himself as the speaker continues... nice to know the number of reploids we kill isn't remembered...
Alpha says, "I actually agree with at least diminishing reploid production ammount.", simply, "Largescale factory production of reploids is what leads most Reploids to go Maverick anyway. Large businesses and corrupt humans build us, and abuse us because they can easily build more. With lowered production of reploids, the scale of the war will diminish as the numbers of both the two largest armies in the world will shrink. The only reason I could see it would be dangerous is if we don't build enough reploids to handle the robot masters. But most of them are stupid anyway. I think ceasing it entirely is pretty suicidal though, and it would be a rather large gamble as well, but I suppose I'd prefer that then this war to continue endlessly as well.", she looks towards King as he laughs, "...He finds it amusing. They are up to something.", Alpha is a paranoid lass, remember.
Burn notices the two Masters, but not Cut. Yet. The disguise seems to be working. He doesn't trust the RM's either, but doesn't say anything, instead listening to the speaker. Well, if anything happens, Burn will see to it. He only half-listens to what the woman has to say, however. He heard most of it before when they first appeared.....
Cut Man twitch an eye -- even only so lightly -- at the mention of robot masters being stupid. For all you know, this could be only a habit! But how dare they say that? Dind't the Masters prove themselves more than once? Meh, oh well. Reploids are all like that anyway. But he keep listening...
Don't tell the other Masters, but Cut Man is not excatly big on killing -- even reploids.
Lisa continues. "Human beings...like myself... have thus far been more interested in risking reploid lives for the United Nations, than our own. But with new technologies, there are plenty of ways that humans can battle on their own. And there are MORE technologies that can be applied toward peace...instead of war." She coughs, and looks around a bit, as if she's forgetting part. Then, starts up again. "We don't believe that Repliforce should expand any further. Especially not into Australia, and not as the right hand and fighting force of the United Nations. To force young reploids into combat...and feed many of them straight to the Maverick Virus, is wrong. To continue producing children just to send them to war... is wrong." She stops. "I'm sure you have questions."
Burn says to himself "Even if they find means to fight themselves, it is a steep chance that they will survive against the Masters or the Mavericks...."
Wind Man waits for the appropriate opportunity to speak, merely listening politely until a sufficient opening presents itself. He turns his permanently fixed grin directly at Bowie for no obvious reason.
Bowie simply nods at Alpha's words without adding any of his own. He listens to Miss Lisa's speech, reserving judgement. Perhaps he has something to say on the matter? He also ignores Wind Man's unnerving grin.
Alpha will, of course, raise a hand, likely ignoring Wind Man too. After all, his name is Wind Man.
Lifesaver arrives from the Teleportation Area--Sydney.
Lifesaver has arrived.
"You have valid points, Miss." King's voice seems to echo out from his position as he speaks loudly. The Robot Master Elite has little time or desire to raise his hand... he is KING and he is superior to all but Wily. "We, Robot Masters, see the logic here and while SOME people would claim us to be a large threat, Our Majesty, the true creator of artificial life, the future ruler of the world, the powerful and wise Doctor Albert Wily just wants what's best for humanity... However, the rest of the reploids would fall under the Virus at some point, since creation of reploids would stop. No fresh minds to defend the already corrupted. We, the Robot Masters, would be happy to defend against the reploids WHEN Repliforce falls under the spell of the Virus." bold words... dangerous words, but King sees a chance to help the cause.
After a moment, Bowie follows Alpha's lead and raises a hand in the air. He wasn't raised in a barn.
A microphone is shoved Alpha's way quite suddenly, since she has a question.... either by fate, the master plan of those who organized this charade, or the whim of a benevolent ST.
King's comment, however, takes some precedence among the press, and those who had questions in the front suddenly fall silent, choking, many spinning around to look at the Master with wide eyes.
Lisa narrows her eyes at King... she wasn't expecting an actual Master here--believe it or not--and it's not something she was prepared for. Since it's...not a question, she doesn't answer.
Simian Monk has arrived.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Evening Hunters. Is there anything that is going on?"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Bowie transmits, "Those folks ya were investigatin are givin a presentation."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Hmm where at?"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Lifesaver transmits, "From what I can tell, it's another peaceful protest rally."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Bowie transmits, "*gives directions to Sydney's business district*"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Main Rigger transmits, "Be careful regardless. I've seen peaceful protests turn ugly."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "I'm en route."
Bolero sends a radio transmission to Abernathy.
Alpha calmly waits for King to finish his propaganda... And then says, "While I like the idea of making firmer guidelines for reploid production, I think these guidelines would have to be rather carefully developed as they might actually help the corrupt, stupid humans in the charge of megacorps rather than the actual reploids, which is what you are suggesting. I am not sure if I like the idea of stopping it entirely, but if that's going to happen, then I suppose we'll at least have the honor of fighting with humans on a more personal level, which I guess would be rather interesting to see, and perhaps help make the two races get along together in the future, but if you do stop it, will you be willing to fight with the reploid ground forces against the current threats, such as that guy?", she gestures to King. "Secondly, what will you do if the United Nations does not agree with your ideas?"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Are there any other hunters there? If there is please let me know where you are."
Bolero receives a radio transmission from Abernathy.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Alpha transmits, "Why?"
Bolero arches a brow at King, looking at the Elite suspiciously. His player almost forgetting his place in OOC/IC knowledge on the Maverick Virus. Accursed viral infection and its weirdness. He folds his arms across his chest and remains silent, gritting his teeth a bit as he tries to hold back the desire to make any comments, snide or otherwise.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Walking down the street is Simian Monk. He had been informed about the protest and decided to investigate once again since he had already started on it and wanted more information on what was going on. The monkey reploid appears at the scene listening to what was going on and looking for Lisa Faulkes or that mysterious Greg Blake.
Burn sighs and refrains from talking as well. Honestly, he'd rather not spend time telling stories.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Just in case."
King stares down at Alpha. "The United Nations has continued to allow this war to continue. We will remind you that Vile AND Sigma were Repliforce officers at one time. We find it interesting that this war is at a stalemate... Perhaps, the United Nations likes this war... it allows them to spend the people's money on war. It tells people how it will keep them save from the evils of the world... but it can't do it. It allows the Mavericks to spring up and take over Europe." King's head jerks back and his nostrils flare. "Now, look at Africa... the people are safe from the evils of the Mavericks. The areas under our control have never fallen to the Mavericks. Why? Because unlike Repliforce we are immune to the Virus. Repliforce, ITSELF, is a threat to the world. What happens when General finally gets the Virus? That reploid has a city destroying weapon on his arm... and he's allowed to move unchecked... DESPITE the fact he could fall to the virus like his robotic brother, Sigma." King glares at the obvious Repliforcers in the crowd. "The Robot Masters won't ever turn on humanity... it is our duty to safe guard them."
Bolero receives a radio transmission.
"I'll answer your second question first. We'll keep trying." Lisa, who is on stage speaking, at the moment... nods, satisfied with that. "And, we'll take it to individual governing bodies, trying to get them to agree to petition with us." Then, she addresses the other.... "As for the first question..." She looks at King again, and looks very taken aback by him. Ironically...she thinks this is the closest she's been to a Robot Master, in person. "I'm not a soldier. I can assist in development, and other ways." She frowns, her brows set. "I...don't want to go into what is suggested by the fact that his presence is here uncontested, or, explore what precisely is said in his commentary.... Just..." She looks over her shoulder, and, specifically, back to Greg in the chair down the line of allied observers. Then back to Alpha "Thank you for your comment, and your support."
The microphone, at this point, is passed to Bowie, even as King continues to speak.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Alpha ignores King casually. If he cannot compose himself in a peaceful protest setting, why should she even bother responding to his crap? The microphone is passed on already so she can't really say to King that the Mavericks and Robot Masters have both taken most of the world. The fact that they now control territory isn't anything special. They used to control -more-.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Bolero receives a radio transmission.
Cut Man is listening to the ongoing debate, his eyes switching from the Elite Master to the one on scene.
This getting interesting.
Lifesaver is somewhat nearby, from exiting the local Teleporter hub. And the Saver is frowning at King's words. Blasted Virus. How he loathes it to death. He speaks up, "While it can be admitted that Androids do have a safeguard against it, it is not necessary known how far that safeguard goes. The Maverick Virus could easily mutant into a strain that affects Androids as well."
"Safety is required, but these days... it is doubtful that all of the Androids can be immune to the virus."
Life settles down once more.
Bolero sends a radio transmission to Abernathy.
Bowie stands up. Not that he really needs to, only that's what's customary when having a microphone presented to you at a large gathering like this. "Whut's yer opinion on reploids creatin reploids?" he asks. "By law, reploids are granted the same rights an responsibilities as humanity. If Ah meet a lovely lady an we fall in love, by law we're allowed t'marry. Whut if one day we decide we'd like t'create reploids a our own? Don't we have the same rights a continuin our species same as humans do thairs?"
Simian Monk twitches his tail as he listens to the debate and waits to see if any more light is shed on this. Simian takes a specific interest on what Mr. Blake is doing. However as in all crowds Simian just stands and watches and if he feels it's important will save a face or two to his memory bank.
Bolero receives a radio transmission from Abernathy.
Bolero arches a brow at Bowie, that's an interesting point the cowboy has. Bolero looks towards King, raising a brow curiously, wondering how he'll reply this time... Hopefully without the annoyingly loud voice this time. He glances about, considering how things are going now.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Burn smirks, wondering if a small debate will occur in the rows. A human male walks up to him, most likely another security officer of some sort, and Burn talks in a low voice, nods, then resumes watching as the man leaves. Apparently the man wanted to check to make sure Burn will...keep the peace.
Greg, in the back, very visibly puts his face in his hand, and shakes his head. ...Two things. One: the fact that Repliforce was actually standing calmly back and taking this kind of abuse from King. Two: the overwhelming, overPOWERING urge to stand up and scream: 'SHE IS AN ARES! SHE IS GOING TO DUMP YOU, YOU IDIOT!!' Which causes him to bite his tongue.
Lisa handles this more demurely. "Under our current plan, you would have to file for a license, and be given the permission to create, as with adopting a human child." She glances at the Croc. "I'm a creator myself, and I understand, but I'm willing to put my need to procreate aside in face of the larger crisis, as any good citizen would."
Bolero receives a radio transmission.
Alpha blinks at Bowie. And is confused. She isn't sure if he's talking about Kalinka or someone else. And if he's talking about Kalinka, she's a bit old for him, isn't she?
And the wrong sign.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Bowie nods slowly at that, not entirely pleased with the answer but accepting of it nontheless. "That's all. Thankee." The microphone is handed back to the runner.
King sends a radio transmission to Burn Dinorex.
Burn Dinorex receives a radio transmission from King.
Burn Dinorex sends a radio transmission to King.
King receives a radio transmission.
Bowie doesn't believe in astrology.
King sends a radio transmission to Burn Dinorex.
Burn Dinorex receives a radio transmission from King.
Bolero receives a radio transmission.
Burn Dinorex sends a radio transmission to King.
King receives a radio transmission from Burn Dinorex.
Simian Monk watches the whole entire spectacle. He is still extremely suspicious with the reasons for the protest. Even though he read the book that Mr. Blake wrote he was still perplexed at why they would like to start this now. Then he wonders why masters are here not being smacked around like they should be.
King sends a radio transmission.
Burn Dinorex receives a radio transmission from King.
The main concern of the press on the floor is the Robot Masters...truthfully, but most of them are too cowed to ask questions about them in the presence of one of their elites. "Are there other questions?" Lisa asks. She was expecting more...then again, she wasn't expecting King. She looks at him...and if he has a question, she decides, she'll answer that, too.
Burn Dinorex sends a radio transmission to King.
King receives a radio transmission.
Lifesaver nods in agreement and ever so briefly peers in King's direction to see what would his reaction would be... (I'm wondering when he'll just give up and do what a Master always do...)0o.
Bolero peers at Greg, one brow arching deeply. Something screwy's going on here. He doesn't yet know what, but he's getting that uncomfortable feeling in the pit of his belly. He narrows his eyes a bit, before raising his hand, remaining leaned back in his seat carefully, considering his words as he watches.
Simian Monk raises his hand gingerly, he didn't like to bring questions to himself and he also would choose his words carefully.
Annoyed at the lack of response, King decided to step things up. "People of Sydney!!! Look at the Repliforce!" He waves his hand toward Burn Dinorex. "We are supposed to be a threat to humanity... we have been called a criminal... but we are here to listen and to help you. Look at that Repliforcer... he has nothing to say because he KNOWS we are correct. People of Australia... The Robot Masters offer to provide protection to your people when Repliforce turns on you. And like Sigma, they will turn..." He turns to look at Lisa. "Tell me, Miss... you understand reploid programming... can the Repliforce promise to stay clean of the virus... can they promise humanity safety?"
Rumble Silverfish arrives from the Teleportation Area--Sydney.
Rumble Silverfish has arrived.
Alpha raises her hand again, pleasantly. "..."
Lisa stutters, as she's addressed: even though she wanted to answer, she's still surprised to be asked. The microphone squeaks. "No... no-no they can't. That's...precisely my point. We have to do our best not to expose Reploids to the virus."
Greg finally takes his hand away from his face, but, it looks a bit like he's trying not to laugh. Then, he coughs, covers his mouth, and shuts up.
Lots of the reporters take pictures of King, at this point.
Bridgit Cascio arrives from the Teleportation Area--Sydney.
Bridgit Cascio has arrived.
And the mircophone is handed back to Alpha.
Burn gets a suspicious feeling too, but ignores it as he 'chats' with King through his radio. He is caught off-guard as King suddenly speaks about him. Thanks, King. He thinks deeply about replying, not really into this thing, but suddenly the attention is all on Alpha and King. He looks towards Bolero...
Rumble Silverfish scurries in across the buildings from the direction of the hub. A silverflash across the buildings. He comes to a halt, sliding into a crack between windows of a building overlooking the gathering, his antennae flickering out as he samples the sounds and vibrations of the people below. Vibrations which would be unnoticable except to those with his highly adept systems...and as always, he begins the search for the machine signatures of troublemakers.
Alpha says, into the microphone, calmly, "There are several Robot Masters here. They are looking for a fight. If you wish to depart before they find goading tiresome and violence more pleasant, now would be the time. It is possible that the Robot Masters will remain calm, but that is not a certainty. It is also a possibility that Repliforce will fall for the bait, but for your own safety it might be for the best that we end this soon. If there are no more people willing to raise their hands to ask questions, perhaps you can make a final speech and move on. I have one more question, however. If you are this unnerved by Robot Master Forces arriving at your protests, how will you fight against them when reploid and drone forces are no longer enough to defend against them?"
Lifesaver frowns, and he slowly shakes his head. (There is something wrong here... But the thing is... I don't know where to start looking...)0o. He almost raises his hand, but stops, and merely continues his observation...
Bowie is still listening, hinting at a frown at all this talk of the virus is bandied about. If all reploids are destined to succumb to it, he thinks, then why hasn't he turned yet? He's plenty older than half the reploids present at this gathering.
Wind Man raises a hand. You don't get to see his internal monologue. Sorry.
Simian Monk still keeps his hand in the air waiting for the microphone to be passed to him.
Cut Man has, by now, stopped to care about the whole debate, and just looking back and forth around the crowd. He's getting bored.
Cut Man would pick his nose if he had one.
Bolero eyes Burn looking at him for a moment. After all, for the moment Bolero looks and seems to be nothing more than a human. His hand continues to remain raised in the air, waiting to be recognized by the Continuum. Err, I mean... The people in charge of the rally. He waits patiently, eyes shifting back and forth, observing the crowd.
Gemini Man is here. In fact...somewhere in the vauge direction of the front of the crowd, if not onstage himself. But that's not something most people would know.
And at this point, the conference is starting to break up... mostly, due to Alpha's concern, and Lisa's growing distrust. Lisa nods at the Hunter, and says, simply, "I... really think I've done pretty well, considering. I want to thank everyone for their time today. And other questions will probably be handled if we manage to reach the UN." She steps away from the podium... and the applause now, does seem a bit louder than the applause before.
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Alpha transmits, "Repliforce."
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Crescent Grizzly transmits, "Oui?"
Burn sighs as the conference starts to break up. "I handled /that/ pretty well..." he says, and walks towards the other repliforce officer, Bolero...
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Bolero transmits, "Maverick Hunter."
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Guardian Burn Dinorex transmits, "yes?"
The Elite glares at Alpha... however, he maintains control. "Who is looking for a fight?" King's optics tighten down on the Hunter. "A Maverick Hunter is accusing a Robot Master of looking for a fight. We are the army of a nation." He stares directly at Alpha as he speaks, "YOU are nothing more than a highwayman and vigilante." King whips back his cape in a show of anger.
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Lifesaver hrms?
Bowie frowns at King's arrogance, but says nothing to either fuel or douse the Master's ego. Eyes turn to Alpha to watch her reaction.
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Alpha transmits, "Please ensure that the civilians depart from the scene in a peaceful and calm manner."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits, "What's the status of the situation, everyone."
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Guardian Burn Dinorex transmits, "I shall"
Simian Monk turns his eyes to the elite master as if daring him to /try/ and strike out. For there were many many reploids here on the 'good' side that would not mind taking him down.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Bowie transmits, "No trouble so far."
Lifesaver eyes King carefully, then watches Alpha's reaction. (Don't react, Alph. He's not worth it.)0o.
It's about at this point that Bridgit wanders into the general area of the meeting, alone and wearing her Interpol uniform. She'd heard of the rally, and after appropriately bawling out the new mechanic in the garages, she headed down undah to see what she could see - and hear what she could hear. Curiously, she eyes the slowly dissipating crowd, hands in her pockets.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Well the rally has ended rather calmly. And there are masters here it seems, however as Bowie said no trouble."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Bowie transmits, "Don't let him goad ya, Miss Alpha. That's jus whut he wants."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits, "Hmmmm. I assume it is the same sort of rally as the one we investigated, Simian?"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "Yes, and Mr. Blake yet again has failed to open his mouth often."
[Radio: (E) Joint-Chat] Lifesaver transmits, "The rally is dispersing. *mutters* Which sounds suspriciously Pro-Master... *normal* No wounded or Damages have occurred, Signas."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits, "As I suspected. This is rather strange - even with peaceful rallies, the fact that the same actors are there each time..."
Rumble Silverfish remains calm, gathering information. He scurries down closer, hiding in the cracks of the building, and narrowing his line of vibrational analysis. He also makes care to record and analyze the machine signature coming from the one who identified himself as King as he moves.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk transmits, "I am supposed to speak with Mr. Blake soon. Maybe I can shed some light on this."
Rumble Silverfish sends a radio transmission to Abernathy.
Bolero looks up at Burn, "May I help you?" he inquires calmly, hand sliding down to once again fold across his chest. The Spaniard eyes Burn, trying to warn him off with a look. Bolero would rather not have people knowing that he can appear to be, for basically all intents and purposes, human. He glances towards King, "Seems to me that you were little more than that before you took over that country." he snaps quietly.
Alpha stands up, fanning her wings back. A peaceful ending. Well, it could still go wrong, but it won't be her fault. She looks towards King and seems to consider his words, rather calmly. And after a moment she says, "Yes. I am a vigilante, and you are part of an army of a nation. As a higher class of warrior and a leader, please desist in your public mockery and show some respect for your station, which is higher than my own."
Burn stops, and hearing the radio transmissions. Besides, he gets the point. He checks and makes sure that the people leaving get out in a safe and orderly fashion, keeping an eye on King and the Masters. Just in case...
"That was less than productive," comments Wind Man to no one in particular, lowering his hand again since the conference is now over. He turns his fixed grin momentarily to Alpha, sweeping over Alpha as an entomologist identifying an unlabeled specimen would. "I am sorry we disappointed your hope for a fight, reploid," he says in a hushed voice. "We know how much you enjoy partaking in the guilty pleasure of accidentally harming the species that wronged you so in the course of defending them against us."
As the applause fades, Lisa steps back from the stage, with the Crododile guard still watching the crowd, for her. The other supporters, who were applauding her, all stand up... Greg last. He approaches her directly as they start to file away...even as the argument offstage continues.
Bowie is pleasantly pleased by the peaceful ending to the meeting, and stifles a grin at Alpha's verbal riposte. Since things are breaking up, he stands up, tips his hat to his fellow Hunter and begins to walk away. On his way out, he spots Bridget, and gives her a friendly smile. "Howdy. Long time, no see."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Alpha transmits, "Who is Mr. Blake?"
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits, "A very good question indeed."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Bowie transmits, "Feller's an author. Simian? Signas? Ya know anythang?"
Simian Monk sends a radio transmission to Gemini Man.
Gemini Man receives a radio transmission.
The optics of King flare as Alpha responds. The Robot Master growls in anger and refuses to reply. His nostrils flare as a Hunter... a minor one at that has managed to turn his logic on him. Finally, the Elite replies, "You are correct, Hunter... and if this was our land, you'd be tried as the criminal you are."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits, "He's published a few books, but beyond that he has an odd lack of files regarding him."
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk murmurs, "Speaking with him right now...give me a minute.
Bridgit Cascio blinks a moment at the greeting, and then registers. "Hey," she returns, managing a brief smile. "Yeah, it has been, ain't it? How're you doin'?" She pauses, looking out at the crowd, attention flickering over King and Alpha briefly. Hmmm. "Looks like I missed the festivities, or at least most of 'em."
Rumble Silverfish sends a radio transmission.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Signas transmits the sound of a datapad being accessed. "He has no known address, only a PO box, and appears to be something of a drifter."
Cut Man has disconnected.
[Radio: (B) H-Chat] Hunter Discussion Simian Monk murmurs again, "If it helps he wrote the Spiraling Cycle. What Ms. Faulkes is basing this rally on."
"Gettin by," Bowie answers with a shug. "Yeah, ya missed most a it, but Ah'm sure it'll be all over the news later. How're ya doin?"
Gemini Man sends a radio transmission.
Simian Monk receives a radio transmission from Gemini Man.
Burn keeps the people in an orderly fashion as they exit, but notices the tension between Alpha and King. If it continues, he might have to step in...
Simian Monk sends a radio transmission.
Gemini Man receives a radio transmission from Simian Monk.
"Can't complain, though somedays I want to," Bridgit answers honestly, smirking wryly. She doesn't seem to be using a cane today, so maybe her leg's not misbehaving as much as it likes to. "Ah, the news. They can't do anything right. It's always biased depending on who's reporting it, y'know? I'd rather see it all happen for myself and make my own biases."
Rumble Silverfish scurries around the window a bit, unfortunately apparently someone decided to polish it this morning. Apparently unable to gain a foothold, he falls down and hits the ground with a large *CLANG* before righting himself, "...bloody industrious window washers..."
"Go ahead, Master," Life responds to Wind, "And prove to the people that came to this rally how ANDROIDS can go Maverick as easily as Reploids can."
Alpha nods faintly to King and says, "Of course. My apologies.", and with that, she'll turn and walk towards Bridgit as well. She specifically doesn't answer Wind Man, she didn't ignore him! Her internally monologue is well-hidden, however, because Wind Man was mean and didn't let her see his....He can't see hers! She says, as she approaches Bowie and Bridgit, "My apologies for my misconduct.", she says, apparently to both of them, though she doesn't particularly look 'sorry'...or very misconducting for that matter. "I am happy to see you again, Bridgit. I have seen a lot of people I have not seen in a while today."
Bowie nods in agreement with Bridget. "That's why Ah wus here. It's mah kind's future thay're talkin about, after all. Druther hear the answers first hand."
Gemini Man sends a radio transmission to Simian Monk.
Simian Monk receives a radio transmission.
Bowie adds as Alpha joins them, "Ya did jus fine, missy. Nice comeback."
Simian Monk sends a radio transmission.
Gemini Man receives a radio transmission from Simian Monk.
Having done what he could with the situation, King turns and walks away quietly. The red cape blowing in the wind as he walks away. He glances back over his shoulder at Alpha one last time and unconsciously, his fist closes in anger....
Guard Crocodile is the last of the presenters to turn his back on the ground, and step off the stage with the rest. At the sound of a loud -clang-, he glances back over his shoulder once...shrugs, and steps down. The press takes a few more pictures, and several stay, just to see what might happen.
Rumble Silverfish scuttles around the group in the stop-start fashion that only an insect can really master. His antennae flickering over the occasional person he passes, apparently uncaring of their sense of personal space.
Simian Monk just appears to be watching the crowds depart peacefully. He stretches lithely and continues to stroll around idly.
"Yeah, not bad," Bridgit agrees, giving Alpha a little grin. "Too bad I missed it, though. I got a thing or three to say about Reploids, but I guess I'll just have to wait for Thackery to crank up his rhetoric again before I get to let it all out." The human quirks a little smirk at that before shaking her head. "Man. First time I've been to a rally that I ain't been run over by fleeing crowds, or where I wasn't wearing riot gear. It's nice."
Gemini Man sends a radio transmission.
Simian Monk receives a radio transmission from Gemini Man.
Burn eyes as King leaves, and walks around a bit, stopping near the crowd of three to make sure. He then sighs.
Wind Man follows behind King on his way out to whatever means of transport they presumably arrived by. He accidentally steps on a bug along the way.
Simian Monk sends a radio transmission to Gemini Man.
Gemini Man receives a radio transmission from Simian Monk.
Bowie breaks into a grin at that, albeit a weak one. "Definitely nice." He takes one last look around the place, then back to the others. "Guess Ah should get goin. Nice seein y'all again, Miss Alpha, Miss Cascio."
Lifesaver looks over at Bowie... "Same here, Bowie. Be careful... and don't be a stranger. Really."
Simian Monk waves to Bowie as he is deaparting. He walks over to the small little gathering interested on what is going on.
Bridgit Cascio sketches a brief salute to Bowie. "Good to see you. Take care, eh?" she tells the Hunter, giving him a little smile. "If ya ever feel brave, I've got a pot of Garage Special on all the time to kvetch over," she half-teases, her grin lopsided.
Gemini Man did this on purpose... He wanted peaceful protests...So, he picked the most pacifist dupe he could find. That way...the violence would be a shock. A real shock.
If it needed to happen at all. He was starting to think that the resolution might just go ahead and pass... Weird.
Giving Lisa a double-handed handshake that looks casually friendly, Greg then steps off... away from the crowds, and in his own direction, without the accompaniment of the others. Wincing, he responds to continued radios.
Burn shakes his head, standing at the gathering as well, but not conversing yet. He sighs and radios Bolero, then says to Alpha "Thank you for handling King. You did well."
Burn Dinorex sends a radio transmission to Bolero.
Bolero receives a radio transmission.
Bolero sends a radio transmission.
Burn Dinorex receives a radio transmission.
Bowie could tell Lifesaver that it's a bit too late, but he doesn't. Just not his way. "Ah'll take care. Ya do the same." His smile strengthens a bit at Bri's offer. "Might take ya up on that sometime." With that, he gives a small wave and wanders off towards the teleporter hub.