Apr 08 12:51:28 106 PA

From Chronicles

The current game time is: Fri Apr 08 12:51:28 106 PA.

Midday at the Gym is a busy time. Lunchtime health nuts are doing their thing, the light and quick exercise types most favored. For Desmond, something slower and more focused is the name of the game. ONe of the first weight benches is where he's laid back and above him a bar that sports six hundred pounds of dark metal is rising and falling smoothly. His jaw is set, muscles rolling in smooth tandem as the heavy weight moves in precise, regular rises and dips.

Maya is no health nut, but before a late shift is the ideal time to burn off that energy the girl has. In the little work out area with pads, she is there, kicking and punching, focussed and intent. Her hair is tied up in bunches, her body encased in a gym pants and t-shirt, an ancient band name scribed across her chest. Still, the make up is on, and her trainers are still boots, laced up tight.

Amber exits the locker room and looks around as she decides where she'd like to start. She throws her towel over one her shoulders as she heads over to the sparring area, and her eyes continue to take the place in. She notices quite a few familar faces, yet she doesn't approach any, instead she finds a spot with a bit room, and begins to stretch, her plastic canteen still in her hand.

Between the hoisting of weights and pummeling of padded adversaries, Leonard is well out of his league. He is, however, aware of this fact, which might explain why his focus has so far appeared to favor the better part of valor in the form of the treadmills. The man's familiarity with the sports complex is improving, as he actually brings his athletic attire with him rather than wear it en route. Cloaks and running shoes really don't compliment one another. He exits the locker room just after Amber, sporting black shorts and white tank and heading for the mats to limber up.

Kesslan arrives, wearing not gym equipment, but his usual aresenal of in city weaponry, and his ever present suit of armor. The pantheran however, appears to be on a mission today, for he moves with a quiet purpose to the entrance of the Gym, pausing just past the door. The feline standing far enough in that others entering would not risk running into him as he apears to be here seeking out some one in particular. That particular someone, it seems, is found easily enough as he is once more on the move, this time heading towards the ever large form of a familiar Kill Cat.

Desmond keeps focus on his lifting, pausing at one point with the bar lifted to full extension. Ever so carefully adjusting his grip before he starts to move it once more. The descent accompanied by a low, soft grunt before he returns to that steady rhythm of up and down. Careful and slow, he'll transition through at least another dozen lifts before finally he lifts for a final time, moving the heavy weight back to settle into the cradle with a loud, metallic clack. He breathes out lowly head canting as he sits up, letting himself relax for a few moments afterward.

After a little while, the pas have taken enough punishment, and the black haired girl is flushed as she turns, taking up her towel and a bottle of water. For a moment her gaze travels over the gym, seeking familiar faces and then, Leonard is sighted and her footsteps turn towards him, her step bouncy and the final one a jump, as she offers him a hug. "Leonard!" The greeting is enthused, matching the bright grin.

Working her legs is followed by her back and arms, Amber works methodically to make sure she's good and loosened up. At last she straightens and uses her towel to dab at her face and neck. She looks around, spotting a free bag that she makes her way over too. She places her towel and water bottle to the side before giving the bag a gentle push, judging its give. She cracks her gloved knuckles before taking jabbing at the bag a few times, a kick following next.

Leonard would have expected full-body contact to at least wait until he reached a padded surface. He is apparently wrong, as he finds himself the recipient of flushed, glistening, and exuberant Maya. "Oof... Hello." Her grin is returned, if not quite as energetically as delivered, as well as the hug. "You seem to be enjoying yourself."

Kesslan makes his way over to Desmond as the larger feline rests uppon the workout bench. While it has been quite some time since Desmond or Aimee, or indeed just about anyone have seen the D-bee he's clearly back in Kingsdale now. Though, in typical manner as always, he waits to catch them when their up and about rather than just dropping in when he gets back. "Desmond." he says as he comes to a stop nearby, his tone somber and serious. More so perhaps than usual. "It seems in error have Kesslan been. Sakt-krish-sa is alive."

Desmond flicks his eyes about as he rests himself, picking up on Amber nearby as she starts to work the bag that she's picked out. Abstractly thoughtful for the moments that he spends before Kesslan's words draw his attention. He looks towards the other feline, then rises from where he sits, turning to extend an arm towards him. "Kesslan," he rumbles, the pleasure in seeing him obvious in tone, if not in the expression he wears, which lingers in that firm neutral set. Though his brow furrows a moment later as he asks, "Sakt-krish-sa?" Takes only a moment before he makes the connection. "One of your comrades.. you have found him?"

"A good workout always makes me feel like I want to really move around..." Maya releases the hapless Leonard, giving him the broad grin that is habit with the girl. "I have a shift. Will you be at the club? I'm going to prove to Sebastien that I can dance." The words flow out of her, but as she speaks, she is backing away, towards the door. "I have to go! See you later!" She waves, turning and jogging off towards the hospital.

As Amber works the bag, her efforts becomes more intense, and the bag begins to swing in wider and wider arcs. She puts out her hands and catches it when the movement becomes too much, and she takes a minute to take a sip from her water. Although she hasn't been working the bag for that long, the effort seems to have taken a toll, and she sweats freely.

Leonard is, fortunately, rather accustomed to a greet and run, and not just from the departing Maya. He lifts a hand in a brief wave , smile curling in amusement. "Well, I suppose that saves a parting hug for someone else..." The observation is voiced to no one in particular as he continues to the mats. Upon noting the slugging, and then resting, Amber, he offers a smiled greeting. "Afternoon. Good to see that you have some time away from work during the day. You're resting better, I hope?" He then takes a seat, legs splayed straight so that he can begin to stretch them out.

"Found trail of yes." Kesslan confirms for Desmond, the smaller feline's ears flattening back a little. "Ceeee-Esss clan took seems. Not sure if dead or live now. But Kesslan wish try find and free. Must chance on this take, Sakt-krish-sa stay behind when raider band attack so other can flee safe. All thought was dead but this not so. Kesslan not know how this, much time been has since and not else of Sakt-krish-sa heard of by other since. Kesslan would help need to free Sakt-krish-sa." he explains as best he can in his clearly unfamilar grasp of english. "On small base is. Would break in need to free."

Desmond places the extended hand on Kesslan's shoulder, listening to the words with a strict seriousness of expression. "I see.." Rumbled slowly afterward as he considers the issue. "And I understand. I would not think your kin would die so easily.. his survival is, perhaps, not so surprising. But if the Coalition have him, he may not last much longer." His tone lowered somewhat on the topic, though the grave nature of their words is likely obvious at a glance. "But it is good to know that one of them is alive." the hand squeezing lightly as he notes that. His brow remains furrowed, his expression thoughtful.

Amber is already a few hits into her second round with the punching bag when Leonard approaches, and she puts out a hand to steady the bag once more as she turns to face him with a smile, "A little I suppose, but I was hoping to wear my self out a bit more, 'cause I don't think it would hurt." she bends at the waist to pick up here towel again, and uses it to wipe her face as she takes a few deep breaths, "You've been spending a lot more time here too, it seems? All part of your preparations for adventure?" she smirks, tossing the towel back to the floor.

Stepping into the gym in her work attire Tirzah is probably in to get some exercise in after a still reception shift. Her bag in hand she collects a locker key from the desk. The heading to the change rooms she pauses on her way past the mats as she sees others she recognizes. "Hello." She greets openly.

Leonard's eyes remain in Ambrielle's direction as they converse while he switches from one leg to the next in his brief prepatory stretching. "Ah. Well, at least you'll stay in top form, then. There are better means to help than exhausting yourself, though. I thought the idea was to avoid your constant weariness?" He then smirks in kind. "Hardly adventure, unless you'd count running quickly. More a pleasant diversion." His head swivels towards the arriving Tirzah as he finally rises. "Afternoon."

Kesslan flattens his ears even more at Desmond's words "Kesslan is not certain is, but chance is that must take. Some agree to help Kesslan with this. Must proper plan before act, this thing Kesslan wish do, this not easy will be at all." A soft sigh escapes the Pantheran as he regards Desmond a moment in silence before adding "Not sure if should Aimee tell, AImee would worry." his tone now uncertain, his tail a little figety in pondering how Aimee would react to what he plans to do.

"You of all should know the proper answer to that," Desmond returns to Kesslan. "I will not veil the truth from her.. I know that is not the proper path. As should you know this," he states firmly. "She must be told.. and I will remain to see that she is not too worried. Though I feel strongly that my place is at your side in this." His tone remaining sober, his attention focused. He pauses, then takes a step towards Kesslan to embrace him firmly. "I tis good to see you again, Kesslan."

Amber looks over at Leo and gives him a smirk, her left eyebrow arching ever so slightly in amusement. She smiles politely over at Tizrah quickly enough though, and a glimmer of recognition appears on her face. "Seems this is the place to be." she offers, as she looks around the gym once more.

Tirzah nods to Leonard's greeting but is unsure what else to say. Not wanting to interrupt too much. But then the girl at the bag gives her adequate opening to not be awkward. Smiling warmly she nods at her. "At times, think I'm more partial to the pool today though. Need to relax and float, but still test myself." She replies in kind.

Once more, Leonard's expression slightly mirrors Amber's as a brow arches above a casual smirk. "What?" It might even be a genuine query, but he is trying to avoid the 'lamb in headlights' countenance. Then that attempt is mostly foiled by his other brow lifted towards Tirzah. "The pool? I really should have looked over the pamphlet I received..."

Kesslan chuffs softly at Desmond's response in regards to Aimee, though he's quick to fondly return the embrace, nuzzling in against Desmond before pulling back part way "And you as well Desmond. Long gone have I been truth, but so too in part to keep safe those cared of." he says softly "Still no answer have Kesslan found to Radiation. Not wish make sick other, but if too long around then sick other become will. This is not a good thing. But time away used well."

Desmond tilts his head down into the nuzzle lightly before they part, though he allows one hand to rise up and linger on Kesslan's shoulder after. "I understand this. It is unfortunate, but what must be done, must be done. Even so, Aimee will be glad to see you again. It is obvious that you are on her mind, for she will speak of you from time to time." His head bobbing as he says this, reaffirming his own words. His eyes dip to consider the other feline and he adds, "I do not wish to keep you from your exercises.. but we can talk still during if you wish."

Itsmber looks over at the direction of the pool and shakes her head, "That whole area sorta scares me still, I've never really had any reason to learn to swim." She begins stretch a bit once more, trying to prevent herself from cooling down too much, "I'm Amber, by the way, since Leo here didn't see fit to introduce us," she smirks once more at the man, and extends her hand to Tirzah.

Amber looks over at the direction of the pool and shakes her head, "That whole area sorta scares me still, I've never really had any reason to learn to swim." She begins stretch a bit once more, trying to prevent herself from cooling down too much, "I'm Amber, by the way, since Leo here didn't see fit to introduce us," she smirks once more at the man, and extends her hand to Tirzah.

Kesslan shakes his head "No, I came here to look for you." he replies, pausing to look around the Gym "Was not home, not at club. So though here may find you. Wished tell you first of this. Understand these thing better do you than Aimee." he explains, moving in to hug Desmond again, lingering longer this time. "How things have fared while Kesslan gone? Not much news have heard Kesslan since gone."

Tirzah grins, enjoying taking a moment to take in Leonard's shock. "Yes, they have a very nice pool here." She explains to him casually. Then smiling to Amber she nods. "I'm sure he assumed we met, I'm a pretty well known person." She offers in his defense as she takes the offered hand. "Tirzah, Warlock and guide. I dont swim wither, but I sink quite well. I find that quite enjoyable after a long day, sitting on the bottom for a while, pushing myself along when desired." She explains cheerfully.

Leonard gasps as he looks to Amber, features stretched in a barely passing attempt at mock offense. "I would never do that, as it would skew the score..." Widened eyes do so further at Tirzah's comment, this time in more genuine surprise at her swimming routine. He is unable to withold the brief but equally honest laugh that follows. "Maybe you could give lessons, Tirzah? I'd wager that even I could learn to sink fairly well. It sounds far easier, and more interesting, than running in place."

Amber lets out a laugh at the exchange, "I'm still pretty new to town, so I haven't met nearly the amount of people as Leo here, " the smirk returns, "but I can see how he'd like to assume I knew more." She looks over at Tizrah and hmms slightly, "Well what do you do at the pool then? I imagine it is pretty easy to perfect your sinking skills, and you'd have to move on to something else?"

Desmond returns the embrace without hesitation. "We two are as aline as we differ," he rumbles deeply. "Things fare well. The fog has gone.. and with it a tangible weight. The Alibi flourishes and with it so do we. Aimee has again spoken of a union.. the human ceremony of marriage, though at the same time she seems.. relaxed on the topic. Not in such a hurry. In honesty, perhaps she feels as I do.. that we need it not. Though I have not asked after this in particular." His head leans back slightly as he looks to Kesslan thoughtfully, without breaking the embrace. Tirzah smirks and just shakes her head at Leonard. "Most people cant hold their breath nearly as long as I can so I don't see myself giving lessons any time soon." She replies, not to bothered by being the focus of a bit of amusement. She does however give a curious look at Amber, some confusion apparent. "Oh I'm not going there to perfect anything, I'm going to relax, enjoy myself and work my muscles a bit in the process. That doesn't really require refinement. Many things I do actually, have nothing to do with getting better at them." She explains to the girl.

Leonard gives Amber a momentary nudge to the shoulder. "I am still attemping to win the argument by losing your little contest, of course." The grin that forms now swivels back to Tirzah. "She seems to think that I am acquainted with most everyone in the city, especially of the female persuasion. Maybe you'd be so kind as to correct her? Sinking lessons for those of us that need to breathe more often would be a bad idea, yes."

Kesslan pulls away once more at long last giving a nod to Desmond "Such is good then. Better than all war recent have Kesslan heard of. Everywhere Kesslan go come new of large wars. Many wish hire mercenary and other to fight one side or other. More still wish hire for all other problem still around. Supprising this is that this place ever see peace."

Amber rolls her eyes, "I couldn't possibly lose, I think," she says in a teasing manner. She stretches her arms in front of her, wincing for a brief moment as she rubs at her collar bone scar, "Though I think i'd put more weight in Tirzah's word than yours, on the subject." She looks over at the other woman and smiles, apparently very curious to hear her response.

"There is much going on here, but for now it seems all those great powers are too occupied with other things to bother us," Desmond rumbles. "A favorable thing for those who would rather know quiet." He takes a moment to glance about then and notes again Amber and those who have gathered about her. Considering them, a thought comes. "Have you considered who you will take with you on this operation? It is, I would think, something that you would have to do carefully."

Tirzah grins widely, part of her wonders how Leonard could be so foolish. But not loud enough to give her any hesitation in her reply to his request. "I guess that would depend on your definition of acquainted. For example, your acquaintance with Sage is to the degree that a simple stretching session leaves you tense, engorged and in need of release, as I recall. Which is curious as she is MY partner, though I have observed you with her on several outings. Sometimes part of me wonders if i should worry about that affiliation. But my dominant intelligence knows you would not be that foolish to try and take from me, would you?" She asks Leonard in turn, her smile confident, and deadly. Then the lethality is lost as she turns it to Amber. "One thing though, acquainted with them all or not, he is at their mercy, not they other way around, he is but a lamb." She tells Amber.

Kesslan shakes his head slightly at Desmond's question and lets out another sigh "No, Kesslan does not know many who are left and good would be. Some dead, other move on. Yet more not speak to in much time." he points out "This is then difficult for Kesslan to reliable person find for such a thing. Thought Desmond help with this could perhaps in suggestion making." he admits, glancing the same direction Desmond does out of simple feline curriosity.

Amber shakes her head, "All these women and so little time, Hmmm Leo?" she says, an elbow moving in his direction to give him a more than gentle nudge, "Though I'd be worried about a wolf in lamb's clothing, with him," she looks up and to the right for a moment and grins even wider, "And now that Tirzah mentions it, i've seen you once or twice with Sage myself," her grin becomes mischievious, "What are you're intentions with that girl? She's quite pretty, i've noticed."

Leonard turns to Amber's rolling eyes with a smirk. "I still say that you have the distinct advantage, if just due to..." Then Tirzah's weighted words are given, and he realizes his error. He does his utmost to keep his entire blood volume from rushing to his cheeks, and surprisingly manages as fair measure of success as he turns to meet Tirzah's grinning (and likely predatory) gaze. "Well..." He is still forced to pause for a breath and thought, unfortunately. "Compared to your implications of boneless, limp, flaccidity, it seemed much more complimentary to us both. I have no intentions of taking her from you, despite your apparent thrill at encouraging her to practice her wiles upon me. Besides, as I recall, /you/ were the one offering to relieve me of said state." The momentary attempt at teeth is somewhat deflated by Amber's comment as he looks back and exhales a sigh. "I'm hardly a wolf, Amber."

OOC Note: Kess asked me to pose him out here, but I missed it.

Desmond is quiet for a few moments of thought before he gives Kesslan a firm pat on the shoulder and rumbles, "A moment." He turns then and steps towards the trio nearby steadily. Only announcing his presence, besides the stature, when he comes to a conversational distance. "Amber, yes?" His eyes fixing on the young woman whilst the somewhat heated talk goes ignored. "Might I make a request of you? I did glimpse your practice before.. only for a moment. I would see it again," he requests, his deep, rolling voice lingering in that steady neutrality.

Tirzah blinks, a little surprised to learn that score of events she's observed are not the only ones, briefly she looks conflicted as considers her replies. "Predators offer tutor by letting their students toy with helpless prey. Though sometimes examples need to be made to give the learning one better grasp of a truly seized moment." She smoothly offers to Leonard in explanation. Then turning to Amber she smirks. "Wolf in sheep's clothing? Have you seen him try to dance?" She asks, as if that explains everything.

Amber grins, and seems very amused with the situation, and although she doesn't quite follow all of the conversation, she does appear to be enjoying it, "I've yet to have the pleasure, though I think its probably just a matter of time, if past events are any indication." she casts a quick glance Leo's way, her cheeks dimpled, and teeth showing in her grin. She chuckles, as if to herself, and shakes her head ever so slightly. She looks up suddenly, finding the chest of the Large D-bee, and forces her to look up even more. Her eye brow arches, "Oh? My teaching that bag who was boss?" she holds her smile, "Was I doing it wrong?"

Leonard's attention remains upon Amber, although his initial words are meant for Tirzah. "She has not, directly, and maybe I should correct that. If nothing else, perhaps a few bruises to your toes would help convince you? It might even tire you enough to sleep, but if not, we could begin the training I've offered afterwards." It is possible the prey is attempting to seize a moment as well, even if it only seems to last until Desmond approaches Amber. Only now does Leonard turn fully to Tirzah. "I'm flattered that you consider me helpless."

Desmond looks to Tirzah as she speaks, considering her for a few moments. But in the end he seems to decide against comment on the matter, merely returning his attention back to Amber. "It is not that.. I have not seen your form long enough to make any such judgments.. but I would like to see how you move once more, if you would oblige me." He lifts a hand, motioning towards the bag she was just assailing. "You seem.. quite graceful, but I would need to see more than a glimpse to be sure."

Tirzah nods confidently to Leonard. "As you should, despite its implications it makes you quite endearing, an admirable trait. In that respect we are opposite, and I have seen the frayed ends being so leaves. But as you accept your nature i accept mine. And I should really get into the pool before much longer. though you're welcome to join me." She offers warmly before stepping of towards the lockers.

Amber's eyebrows raise, and her heads tilts a bit to the right as she considers the big d-bee, her eyes moving to Tirzah and then Leo after a brief pause. She shrugs, "What the heck, i'm sure you could give me a few pointers," she says to the Cat before turning to Leonard to address his comment, "Oh i've not forgotten your debt, perhaps I just liked to hold it over you a bit, get the full use of it." she chuckles as she flops her head back and forth, her shoulders bobbing right to left as she cracks her neck and upperback, loosening up, "If you two will excuse me just a sec," she says squaring up with the bag, She toss a look over her shoulder at Desmond as says, "Here goes." She starts off slow, her punches causing the bag to beging a gentle swinging, and then she once more starts to use kicks, and the bag increases its movements a bit. She circles slowly, trying to keep the bag before her as she moves. Her skin has taken on a bit of a shine, and her breathing has increased noticiably.

Leonard chuckles softly in Tirzah's departing direction as the snarky interaction has faded almost as suddenly as it began. "I will risk taking that as a compliment." He glances Amberwards to offer a reply, but she has already begun to subjugate the sandbag. "Just let me know when you tire of holding the debt and wish to drop it upon my head." A pause to consider a thought or three follows, and he then steps back for the lockers, treadmill forgotten. Either he's decided to forego exercise, or accept Tirzah's invitation.

Desmond leaves Leonard and Tirzah to their discussion, focused on his current goal. Whatever that might be. When she moves towards the bag, he does as well, his hands lifting to grip the bag itself as he moves behind it. So much the better for her to go at it without having to compensate for the sway. He grips it firmly and it won't move much at all with him bracing it firmly. And while she works it over, he will study her intently. He will let her go for perhaps a minute or so before he rumbles, "That is good, thank you." Though he keeps his hands on the bag as he continues, "You have great potential.. your movements are very fluid.. impressive. Not sharply refined, but favorable. Who trained you?"

Tirzah head into the woman's changing room and the pool her intentions alluded to.

Amber stops her assault, and places her hands on her knees and she hunches over a bit, letting a few drops of sweat hit the mat. She takes a few deep breaths before attempting to talk, and straightens up, maneuvering herself to where she left her towel, which she uses to wipe her face and neck, "Just some guy," she says, her hand seeming to come up unconsciously, headed for her collar scar, but she stops it, "Some people I, uh, worked for thought it'd be best if I wasn't completely useless in a fight, so they taught me a few moves." she shrugs slightly, "I learned pretty quick, but I think in the end they decided they didn't want me to get too good, so i never really learned any advanced stuff. You like you know how to handle yourself, so I guess I'll take that all as a compliment, at any rate, thanks."

Leonard disappears into the little lamb's room, emerging from the other exit and into the pool area.

"There are many aspects to the art of combat," Desmond rumbles deeply, considering Amber. "Though perhaps you are not deeply trained in technique, you have strong natural talent. More graceful than I, though not so quick. You might do well to keep this potential discreet. Being a powerful fighter is an double edged blade.. you can battle but those who know it may seek to test you, simply to prove their own superiority. And there will always be someone who is better than you. Just as there will be someone who is better than me. Though not necessarily more powerful in a straight fight.. cunning counts for much."

"Well, I'm not one to go about beating up on people, really, and I don't think many people around here who might respond that way really have me on their radar." she smiles slinging her towel around her neck and hanging on to the two edges that dangle in front of her. "Still, maybe we could occasionally combine our workouts? I'm pretty sure I couldn't really make you work up a sweat in the ring, but maybe you'd show me a few things? Give me a few pointers, perhaps?"

"I believe I would have an edge on you," Desmond rumbles. "But not so deep an edge as I would have over most." He moves back around the bag and adds, "I don't know that you might desire my own training. I was trained to harm and kill. Most combat training is meant to disable and defend instead. Though I have learned to soften this urge over time. So too, it is not the safest to spar with me.. though I have greater control of my physical power than I have had before, there is only so much one can pull a punch while still giving a proper effort."

Amber nods her understanding, "Yeah, I guess that all makes sense," she looks around and seems to just notice that she is alone with Desmond, "Still, I know there is alot more out there for me to learn, and although i'm not really looking to try to hurt anybody, I find something relaxing about sparring. I guess pain is a good motivator, I can always seem to focus when i'm fighting, lets my mind clear as it focuses on self preservation." she smirks and shrugs, "I seem to keep running into people who don't seem to take this" she waves her hand over torwards the sparring room, "As lightly as I do."

"I cannot speak for others, but my own caution is a necessity," Desmond rumbles deeply. He considers for a moment, then lifts a hand towards her as he notes, "A human of your size, I could easily lift with one hand. More than my size and build shows, my physical power is greatly enhanced, to the point that it would be a simple thing to do grievous injury to an unenhanced human. But perhaps we could determine something. If you truly wish to try, we could attempt it."

She smiles up at you and nods, "I'm amiable to attempting something, I trust that you won't hurt me too badly, nothing I can't recover from, Huh" she tosses you a wink, "We can always give it a try and see what happens. I follow directions well, at least, if it has to come to that." She shrugs, but seems interested.

"Some time soon, though not this day, I think," Des rumbles deeply. "However, I would ask you some further questions, if you would allow. Some which may be of a personal lean. You are, of course, justified in denying any of them you might wish to." He glances towards the nearby weight benches and motions towards them, "We might sit there if you prefer not to stand. There are few ears there as well."

Amber nods her approval as she bends down to grab her cantine before heading to the spot indicated. She straddles part of the bench, her canteen resting in front of her as she looks up at you, "Well, no promises, but I'll see what I can do." she removes her towel from its resting place behind her neck, and drapes it over her left leg, "Shoot," she says, ready for just about anything, if past interactions have been any indication.

Desmond approaches a nearby one. The one he'd been using before, in fact. His own gym bag still rests there and, as he speaks, he leans down to pick out his waterbottle. Though he holds it until after he's given his question. "Have you ever been in a true, life or death fight? Not one where the danger was minimal.. but one where you could have seen an end?" As with all things he says, it's said with that steady, stoic tone that slides right down the middle.

Cassius enters into the gym, late evening in April, dressed in his robes, gym bag over his shoulder, the teen giving al ight sniff and rubbing his nose.

Amber's brow furrows, and she slumps down ever so slightly as she seems to consider the question, "I guess once really, or twice, really, though the second one I didn't really know it was until later." she sighs, and buys herself a few seconds while he chews at her lips and inspects her hands. She looks back up to you, "Even the first one, was iffy, and didn't start out that way, and I guess I sorta started it." she shrugs, looking everywhere but at Desmonds face. She notices the robe figure, and pays him more attention than he warrents, but finding him a sufficent excuse to avert her eyes a moment.

Desmond keeps his focus, sitting with Amber in the weight training area of the gym, each sitting on a bench. He uncaps and lifts his water bottle as she responds to him, drinking from it for a few moments, ending that with his eyes returning to her as she does anything but look towards him. "I don't see why you are shy in this. There is no shame in a battle fought.. though if you did not know these were dangerous battles before they began.. that makes me curious as to the circumstances." He pauses briefly before he wonders, "You have killed another?" Again, there is but the straight line of his neutral tone.

Cassius hefts his gym bag as he enters, he looks around the gym, aftrnoon and peole are working out. He gives a faint nod as he grabs his bag and heads to the changing rooms. Going to retape his hands, and then put on the t-shirt and the sweat pants. he nods and gives a light shadow spar in the locker oom, and he grabs a towel and heads back out to the floor.

Amber looks up at Desmond, every intention of lying or dodging the question, but something gives in her, and she seems surprised the words are even coming out her mouth as she speaks, "Once, I did. I tell myself it was in self-defense, but really, I don't know, my life wasn't in any real danger, I think, until I chose to fight." she touches her scar, letting a finger trace its enitreity, "The second time, I learned never to assume anything in a fight, I thought we were just training, and I guess I did a little to well, and the other guy didn't take that well, and I guess my guard was down because I wasn't expecting it to be real." she shrugs once, something akin to relief mixed with horror on her face as she stares at the bench between her legs, "I can't believe I just told you all that."

Desmond is quiet for a time, not unaware of how Amber touches that scar. Though when he does speak, it is a careful response, his deep rumbling words offered in a low, softer tone. "There is one thing in this life that you should understand above all others. There is no dishonor in killing to preserve your life. Amongst the reasons that one might find, that is the most pure, the most primal." He pauses then, adding, "I would ask, however, what about this effects you as it does. If you would speak further. You can be sure that none of this will be spoken of again should it be your wish."

Cassius spots the two talking, and he'll slide in his working cloths towards the sparring room.

Amber raises her eyes to meet those of the D-bee before her, holding the gaze taking a noticiable toll on her, "I guess, its that I killed a guy, and he was a bad person, i'm pretty sure, but he wasn't planning on killing me." She breaks eye contact a moment as she watches others in the gym as they go about their routines, "But I changed the situation, and because of me, he's just gone. No chance to change, no chance to better himself or learn from his mistakes, all because of me." she shakes her head a bit, her expression remarkably stoic, considering, "I just don't think anyone should have that right, especially not someone like me."

Desmond considers her words quietly for a few moments after she's completed the thought. "I could not judge from knowing so little.. every situation is a new decision, a new test to one's honor," he rumbles deeply. "But in a battle that is life or death, there are but two choices. To safeguard your own life or to not do so." He extends a hand, letting it rest on her shoulder with just the weight of it alone. "There is no higher authority to make su ch judgments. We all must do so as we can, looking to those things we believe to be right. In the future you must remember this. There will surely be times when you must decide on a matter of taking a life. Hesitation can mean the death of yourself or those who look to you. You must be ready for when the time comes."

Amber flinches at the touch, but just barely, allowing the weight and warmth of the hand to remain, though her shoulders muscles tense. She lets out a long, calming breath, her eyes closed in an extended blink, "I guess thats why I come here, in the end. I see victums all around me, and in the dregs it was even worse. I told myself a long time ago that I wouldn't let that happen to me." Her eyes move over the random faces around her, "But that one act changed my life so much, so quickly, its hard to tell myself that it was what whad to happen, or even that it was the best choice." she returns her large grey eyes to the d-bee's face, her eyes searching his, "You've taken a life before, I take it? How do you tell yourself that you're not one of the bad guys?"

"You make a common mistake, Amber," Desmond tells her. "The terms 'good'.. 'bad'.. they are but an illusion. There is what is important to you and that which you believe to be right." He nods his head then and states, "I have taken many lives. Once before, I do so at the behest of others. I lived a life of obedience and blissful ignorance to anything beyond duty and comforts. I was awoken from that when I came here.. free of the will of others, I now make may choices and my decisions based on what I see as important and right. Though what I believe I temper by careful observation.. by listening to others and considering their views. Though in the end it is I who make the decisions for myself.. and I who will reap the benefits and pay the price." He dips his head towards her. "So it is for you. I cannot tell you what is right for you. But what is right you should not hesitate to defend, even if others who might deny you these things must lose their lives for it to be so."

"I guess that's where i get into trouble. I always believed that killing was wrong, and although I wasn't oblivious to the fact that I facilated that type of behaviour in what I do professionally, I'd always been able to keep it separated." She reaches behind her head and rubs her neck as consdiers her next words, her head tilting to crack a stiff joint, "But when the time game, after it was over, there was a period of time where I wasn't horrified at what I'd done. I was, not proud exactly, but I felt like I had showed him, that her got what he deserved, and it wasn't unpleasant, for a little while at least." she shrugs ever so slightly, "Morality if what you make of it, i've learned that from the company i've kept, but its weird to be so sure you know how you feel about things, and then find out you really have no idea."

Desmond nods his head once. "Life teaches. I've found that one can never be sure of what they know until experience has taught them. Only in the midst of it can you know yourself and your reactions." He leans back slightly and lets his hand dip back to his knee. "However, killing is not wrong. Nor is it right. It is something that, at times, one must do. It is not to be done lightly, nor is it to be avoided when it is required. It can be messy, but it can be necessary as well. This one you speak of.. he has killed many? Harmed many without remorse?" The two are sitting on a pair of weight benches this afternoon at the gym, Desmond speaking in a lowered rumble to Amber.

Alistair doesn't have super-hearing, but he is at least present. Having changed into a pair of shorts and t-shirt, he makes his way towards the weight lifting area, probably to lifts weights. For a moment, he eyes one of the machines and, upon spotting Desmond and Ambrielle, he waves to them, "Hello!" cheerfully, too. "Oh yeah, I mean," she pauses, forcing herself to think back, "Yeah, he did. He was bad, and I'm sure thats why I had the moment of...satisfcation." She opens her mouth to continue, but hears a cheerful "Hello", her ears perking up as she turns her head to locate the source. Her eyes flick to Desmond a moment as her face changes radically, a well rehearsed care-free smile finding its place as she offers a wave back towards Allistair.

Desmond lets his attention linger on Amber long enough to catch that shift of expression before he lifts his head and turns his attention towards Alistair. "Good afternoon," he rumbles deeply, the simple neutrality of his own expression just the same as ever. He then notes to Amber, "You need only remember one thing. That which you hold to be true. That is all that can be asked of anyone. Of course, we judge our truth through our experiences. It is a thing ever changing, ever personal." Those words capped by his lifting of his water bottle to take another draught from it.

Alistair does see the change in expression, but he apparently decides not to butt in, or is too timid - or too polite - to do so. So he just smiles at them, and starts to work on pull-ups at one of the machines now. His expression does betray some curiosity, it looked like it might have been a pretty heavy topic.

"I guess so, but I always worry about what others are going to think. Its a hard thing to be judged by someone else's sense of morality." her expression is once again pensive, and her eyes spend a lot of time staring off at nothing as she seems to think over all that's been said so far. "I think that if more people felt like you do, that such things are deeply personal, I wouldn't be having such a hard time with it. I guess I just worry to much about things I have no control over." she rolls her shoulders back, a small popping noise can be heard.

Desmond shakes his head slightly. "One is always judged. No matter what you do, someone will judge you. I will judge you and you will judge me, with each action that each of us takes. The only ones who should effect your decisions are those who you hold in esteem, for only that select few are likely to know you well enough to judge properly. While you should be firm in what you believe, you should never be closed to the fact that you will be wrong from time to time." He pauses, considering for a moment before he offers, "One of my own judgments that proved wrong was that there was a good chance this city would not survive the threat of the undead that has just recently ended. I made plans for myself and My Aimee to leave this place should death come to be a certainty. I'm sure there are many who would have judged that a cowardly thing. For me, there is but one person who is highest in my eyes. Aimee. Between her and this place, I would choose her. I make no apology for it and, though I was wrong in my estimation and caution, I would not choose another course, had I to do it again. She is one of those things I hold dear.. who is of the highest esteem to me. And together we learn from one another and the path that life lays before us. It is but an example of what I speak of, though personal to myself."

Alistair slowly pulls on the bars, inhaling and exhaling as necessary; the weight he started with is actually about a hundred and fifty pounds - probably what he weight in fact. Maybe he warmed up a bit earlier - but given the lack of difficulty in repeating the action, one might guess he's got a bit of oomph in him.

Amber puts her arms behind her on the bench, and leans back a bit as she looks up at Desmond, "For me its just my survival that I have to worry about, I can't imagine having someone in my life like that." her expressions warms a bit, "Who is this Aimee that has you willing to do anyting for her? She must be something, huh?" she turns her head and looks over at Allistair, her brow furrowing briefly before she turns her attention back to Desmond, awaiting his response.

As Desmond thinks about Aimee, to answer this question properly, the firmness of his expression softens just a bit. "Our story is long, despite that we have known one another for not so long by the reckoning of others. She and I run the Alibi with the assistance of Kesslan, who is also dear to us. Aimee is a female who had the fortitude to teach me many things.. to look beyond what I am to who I am. A fiery personality that draws me.. speaks to me in a way others do not." He nods his head once. "We two see eye to eye more often than not and no matter what comes, I know my path is with her." He lifts his hand in a gesture towards Amber. "Perhaps you cannot imagine such a thing now, but when it comes you will. Patience is called for. Patience and an awareness of those around you." His hand moves back to touch his chest. "When Aimee and I first met, I was less mature than I am now. I nearly let her slip through my fingers. The nearness of that loss taught me much. That one must always be aware.. be attentive to those closest to them. It was a hard lesson to learn, but I am better for it."

By now Alistair is doing the pull up for the seventh time - it's not that he isn't sweating it, or that it's easy as pie, rather there's no change in rhythm or speed at which the weight are pulled and then set down. It takes a few more for him to decide he's had enough - he lets go of the bar after the weights are settled and lifts up a bottle of water to drink from, staying there a few moments to rest.

Amber's smile widens a bit, and she seems to enjoy the turn in conversation, but as the big cat finishes, her more neutral expression returns, and she finds herself looking over in Allistair's direction, her eyes seeming to stare past him as she seems to pause. A quick shake of her head brings her back though, and she lets out a small "hmmmm." she leans foward, and brushes a bit of hair behind her ear, "Maybe one day," she says at last, "I'll be a little able or willing to really pay attention. I think its best I focus on myself for a bit, but Its nice to know that things sometimes work out." she smiles again at Desmond.

"You do not always get to choose," Desmond notes. "I was hardly seeking when I have found. And I have heard that some who have sought all their lives have never discovered what I now know and hold close." There is a touch of lecture in the next, but he never deviates much from that steady neutrality. "Look to yourself, but be aware of those who you touch and who touch you. It may be a day, it may be a decade before your time comes. But it will not come when you desire it." He pauses then and his tone softens somewhat, his hand lifted to touch her shoulder lightly again. "Pardon my firmness in saying so. My own experience lingers with me.. I nearly saw Aimee devote herself to another. It is not an experience I would see another go through if they need not."

Alistair looks to Ambrielle just as she looks to him with the patented Scientology Stare. He then stands and vacates that particular bench - for a few moments, he is subject to some teasing from one of the other patrons, likely someone who doesn't know him. Alistair stares back at that person for a moment, tilting his head a little - there's likely a sheepish smile from him there, his gaze then turning to the pool.

Amber allows her self to smirk a bit, "Well, there is a lot i have to learn about a lot of things." she offers a shrug, "I like hearing about others experiences, helps me sorta get a feel for things, I'm probably the youngest 20 year old in this town, so i always feel like I have some catching up to do." she holds her hands out, elbows near her body, to either side of her as she shrugs once more, "I guess I have to hope I won't miss anything, but I think at the stage in my life where I'll start making those mistakes that I'll get to regret a bit later." she grins just a bit.

Desmond nods his head once to Amber, his ears flicked to the side, towards the sound of teasing. Though for a moment he keeps focus. "I have made you aware of the need for vigilance. Is is yours to walk your path with care." He pauses, then adds, "As you can tell, I do not hesitate to share my own experiences, thus if you wish for advice.. what guidance I can provide is yours to request." He then looks towards Alistair, considering him. His voice lifts and he asks the man, "All is well with you, Alistair?"

Alistair turns around to look at Desmond after being addressed; he smiles, "Yes, and how about yourself? I know it is well after the fact, but it seems you did not need my help with those matters we discussed back then - though I apologize, we live close yet I did not come to ask" he says, nodding. To Ambrielle, "And have you managed to sleep a little better, Miss Ambrielle?"

Amber nods, "I find being sufficently exhausted seems to help, and I've tried to cut back a bit on my caffine intake." her shoulders shrug up as she cracks her knuckles before her, and she looks again at Allistair, "Thanks for asking. You had a chance to talk to Zach, recently?" her expression looks meek, and her ears have started to turn a light pink.

Desmond's brows lift slightly at Alistair's words. "I don't quite recall what matters you refer to," he rumbles, his hand lifting to motion for the man to approach. "But the past events have weighed upon me. Remind me of the topics we discussed." He then looks towards Amber as she speaks, offering, "It is advisable to limit the intake of such things." He considering her quietly after those words are offered.

"Ah! And I haven't had time to help you with meditation yet, but ... oh - no, I have not seen Zachary. Has anything happened?" Alistair inquires, and, coming closer, he looks to Desmond, "Oh, I mean, about Valentine's" he explains, blushing a touch, another sheepish smile is offered, and of course with the proximity his voice isn't too loud either.

Amber does her best to look innocent, and then apologetic, "Well, you're name may have come in the course of a conversation with him, and I know I said I'd keep things between us, but things got wierd." she she sighs, taking another deep breath before continueing, "Anyway, I just wanted to you be aware, in case he brings it up." she pauses for a moment, "Not that he would, i think, nothing bad happened" she seems a little uncomfortable, and decides to just stop stalking as she offers a weak smile.

"Ahh." Desmond nods his head once to Alistair. "I have come to learn well the nature of that particular day," he rumbles deeply. "It is a day that is not uncommon to many days between myself and Aimee. An odd thing to have a day that is meant to highlight relationships when there is no need for a certain day to do such things." He then looks to Amber again, considering her words quietly. "Who is this.. Zachary you speak of?" His eyes flicking towards Alistair on using the full name he provided.

"Oh ... " Alistair blushes a little more, looking at Ambrielle, "Would you kindly elaborate on that?" he requests, biting his lower lip. Looking to Desmond then, he explains, "He is one of Cali's co-workers. Miss Ambrielle is another; she has hired them both and so far she is very happy with their work" he smiles.

"Yeah, he's a friend of ours, you'd probably get along well with him" she say to Desmond before she looks over at Alistair, "I really dont?" she looks away, trying not to smile, "But I may have mentioned talking to you about him, and how he sees me." she looks apologetic, "I'd really screwed up, practically attacked him, so I sorta had some catching up to do, and so I used what I had, I'm sorry." she winces ever so slightly.

Desmond nods his head once to the revelation of who. "Then I wish you luck with this friend and the relationship ou build with him." He looks to Alistair then and wonders, "The images I rendered for you.. you never did mention how Cali received them, come to think. Was the quality acceptable? I am somewhat concerned for that.. I have not been painting for so long as to hold confidence in the quality of what I can provide." "Oh - then perhaps I might have to do a little de-fuzing" Alistair smiles, tilting his head a little. "Thank you for the warning - did it turn out well for you, or?" he inquires, watching her for a few moments, before turning back to Desmond. He blushes furiously at that question and a moment later he replies, "There is no need for concern, they ... got the message across. Good work" he smiles.

Amber's eyebrows arch, and she seems surprised at this revalation, "And he paints too? Is there much left you haven't dabbled in?" she asks Desmond, a smirk on her lips, She turns back up to address Alistair briefly, "Its hard to say, I'll find out soon enough, I think." She starts to stand, looking back and forth between the two men for a moment, "I think I'm going to hit the showers, and call it good. There's a bit of daylight left, and I still have some shopping to get too." she looks over towards the girls locker room, and begins plotting her course as she gathers her water bottle.

Desmond nods his head once to Alistair and rumbles deeply, "I am glad. If you have need of such a thing made again, you may ask. I am pleased to have provided something that Cali will enjoy." He then looks to Amber, a brow lifted slightly. "I draw and paint," he confirms. "And cook. I prefer to make deserts currently." Said without a hint of anything but his straight, neutral toned norm. "Farewell, Amber. Good luck with your personal searches."

"Should the need arise I will seek you out" Alistair nods with a smile, "Thank you - and of course should you need something from me, do not hesitate to ask" he adds, quickly looking towards Amber as she starts to leave. "Oh! But, wait, Miss Ambrielle" he tries not to ask too loudly, "Well ... do -you- like him?" he asks, "You know, I mean ... you know what I mean."

Amber smiles at Desmond, "Thanks for talking with me, hopefully we can get together again soon." she lets her eyes linger, and she smiles a bit wider before turning to address Alistair, her face scrunchings, "I'm sure I don't know what you mean," she says, her exit now somewhat stalled, "He's my best friend, of course I like him." she says, obviously dodging the real question, "Ask me again in a day or two." she says as she turns to leave once more.

Desmond nods his head once to Amber. "Of course. Be well," he offers to her simply, falling silent then as his eyes pass between her and Alistair. Alertly observing their shared words, but for now not adding in his own in the certain subject.

"But that isn't helpful!" Alistair protests, almost pouting. He waves to Ambrielle then, "Have a good night!" he says, slowly turning back towards Desmond. "I think they like each other, but I would have to find Zachary - I believe I am in trouble" he points out, quirking his brows up. "BUt ... um, I suppose I will find out later. Speaking of cooking, I think I would like to learn that too - and dancing."

Amber smiles over her shoulder at the two men, offering them a brief wave before she heads towards the women's locker room, and disappears through the door.

Desmond furrows his brow slightly as Alistair speaks, allowing Amber to be on her way. He considers the other man for a few moments before he rumbles, "What they are to one another is for them to discover. I know not this Zachary, but she seems not yet ready to confront such a thing.. at least, not with the concrete answer you seek from her. Some things are not so certain as that." He pauses, then asks, "What trouble do you think you are on?"

"I told her he likes her, because I think he does. I think this lack of readiness is ... imaginary on their parts, but I think I've meddled enough" says Alistair; he then smiles, "Almost enough. Miss Vyvian tried to help Cali and I along, I think, but we didn't seem to need much help - as for the trouble, I figure Zachary might be a bit cross with me. I'll have to find out."

Desmond considers again, given to his common thoughtful pauses. " In some ways, you are right. There are times that we will tell ourselves we are not ready when it is uncomfortable to face something. But in such a case, force is not the proper path. Force is rebelled against. Evaded." He leans down to pick up his gymbag, but remains seated as he lays his water bottle within. "It is right to observe, as is polite and consider, but you should given them time to seek and perhaps find. Though my own words to her might prompt more haste in discovery, the proper speed for two who may come together is never the same." He looks to Alistair. "It is a thing that must be approached carefully."

"I am not a very forceful person" Alistair replies, "In fact, all I did was make a suggestion, and it seems to have ... exploded, for lack of a better word. I should go and fix things if I can" he smiles, and nods. "I think however, they were not going to seek to begin with - I mean, while Cali and I were shy, these two disbelieve in each other's feelings ... denial."

"Fix it how?" Desmond asks. "Emotions are often an illogical thing, Alistair." He frowns slightly. "It took me a great shock to realize the true depth of my feelings for Aimee. To know the burn of knowing she was beyond my reach. This may be what will open their eyes as well, cruel that it might be. If.. their emotions are as such. You seem certain, but are you really? You might do better to try and know these two before you conclude that you have a clear view of their feelings. I do not say so in doubt of your intentions. Your intent seems favorable enough. But that doe snot mean the results will be pure."

"I could be wrong; I did not use any of techniques to look into those feelings, I merely watched them" says Alistair, nodding his head a little. "Zachary paused to think about it when I asked him if he liked her. She blushed when mentioning him. Very simple signs" he smiles, shrugging his shoulders a touch. "I don't mean to be pushy, they just seem to be interested, and in denial at the same time. I do realize if I push, they will likely go deeper into denial."

Desmond nods his head once. "Yes, at times patience is a better path," he rumbles deeply. "You may already have done enough. Better to see the results of what has come already before you consider placing your hand in again. Or so is my instinct on the matter." He dips his head once. "Your path is, of course, yours to walk." He slowly rises from the weight bench he sat upon. "In any case, I wish you luck with your endeavors. I should return home, then away to the Alibi. Aimee will be waiting for me and I do not like to keep her." "Of course; do have a good night" Alistair smiles, inclining his head to Desmond. "I will finish here in a while and likewise go find Cali. Things are going well for us" he comments, "Oh, anyway - yes, good night" he smiles again.

Desmond nods his head once to Alistair, then turns to stride towards the changing rooms. "Indeed, be well," he rumbles as he goes.