Nov 05 107 PA - CS Recruiting in Laramy

From Chronicles

Day 1

The CS recruiting rally will be taking place in Laramy's town hall. It is a modest building of early twentieth century tech. Its capable of seating fifty people comfortably. Folding chairs are set for such, all labeled as Coalition property. To the side a row of tables hold light refreshments and informational booklets and brosures. Heading the rally is Major Daniel Carter who appears in body armor with medals and insignia and without a helmet. He is about 40 with a healthy complexion and rich dark hair that only shows a bit of grey. At the door two fully armored commandos check those attending for weapons and other unwelcome items. Outside at the village militia six members are stationed on standby in full armor. There are of course a dozen or more people protesting the Coalition event. So far they are respecting the hundred meter distance limit for such activities.

Galvin is dressed up in his armor as he pulls up a little ways away from the recruitment drive in his ATV. He shuts off the ATV and jumps out of it. He takes a moment to unarm himself, leaving his weapons securely locked inside the ATV. He takes a moment to look over the gathering and he frowns inside his armor. He pulls off his helmet as he walks around the gathering, while making sure he knows who has what weapons, and what the capacity of the the Commando's armor is.

Rubidia makes her way out of the Dead Dog Saloon, retrieving her bow as she does. Seeing the commandos at the door she doesnt bother putting the bow on the shoulder, expecting to have to hand it to htem next as she starts to make her way to the hall.

Vixen will come rolling into town on her Highwayman. Armored and lightly armed as she ever is. The speed of the approach slackens as she comes into town, eventually dropping to a steady prowl as she nears the Town Hall and the cordon around it. She doesn't come too close to it at first, puling off into a clear space to park first. The cycle quiets and she flicks a switch on the side, only then lifting her hands to remove her armor's helmet, head cocked as she scans the set up.

Galvin walks into the building after a few moments. He has no weapons on him to hand over, and so he is quickly able to take a seat. He picks up a couple brochures and flips through them. He tries to keep his expression neutral as he looks around. He chooses to sit off in a corner so he can get a better look at everyone and everything involved with this little recruitment drive.

Leonard is not far behind the highwaywoman on the Highwayman, but some distance above. When she slows to enter the town proper, he also slows the thrust from his pack and lands to walk the rest of the way. The helmet comes off, too, now that he's not as worried about flying headfirst into anything solid.

Vixen looks over to Leo as he lands and she smiles faintly. She gets off the cycle and taps her helm against her thigh as she approaches him. The other hand slips out her small camera. "We should get in, see what's going on." She peers towards the town hall and says, "Looks like they're taking weapons. Figures." Her lips purse, her attention shifting towards the nearby CS forces with a subtle air of paranoia.

Galvin keeps flipping through the booklets and brochures inside the building. He looks over the other people that have come to the meeting. Adjusting his glasses with one finger he waits for the presentation to begin.

"Well," Leonard shrugs with a smile, but his words are quiet, "it wouldn't be proper if someone just walked in and shot them, now would it?" He motions towards the hall and continues on, now at her side. Another aerial acquaintance now descends from the sky to alight upon the stopped cycle. A raven, familiar to some, who is now drafted for parking security. pose delays her trip throught the commandos as she sees Vixen arrive. Waving to both she turns to meet up with Vixen in an excitable skip. "You made it. Was thinking it would be just me when you two didnt come to the dead dog first. Or maybe I'm just early." She says with an easy going shrug.

Rubidia delays her trip throught the commandos as she sees Vixen arrive. Waving to both she turns to meet up with Vixen in an excitable skip. "You made it. Was thinking it would be just me when you two didnt come to the dead dog first. Or maybe I'm just early." She says with an easy going shrug.

"I'm more worried about them deciding to do something," Vixen murmurs to Leo, considering her gear. After a moment, she decides to play it safe. Slipping the tiny hideaway pistol from it's snap holster in her sleeve, she slips it into the little lock box on the back of her bike. Technically the Coalition considers it illegal. Best to not tempt fate for now. "Let's.." She pauses as she notes Rubidia and nods. "Had some issues to take care of," she replies. "Lets get in there and see what sort of mess this is going to be," she suggests. Already casually starting to remove her weapons as she goes. She leaves her mace spray on her belt, just to see if they'll over look it.

Galvin gets up from his seat and walks around the building. He looks over the refreshments but doesn't take anything. He walks around the meeting room while he hums softly to himself. He watches the door to take note of who comes in.

Inside the hall it is sparesely attended. The guards do hold Vixen for the mace. Nothing is said, they simply move to intercede and point undeniable fashion. Daniel Carter sits at the fronto of the hall reading from a binder. A pitcher and two glasses of water sit on the table beside him. As more people enter he nods slightly and looks to finalize his preperations.

Leonard didn't bring any weapons, not that he generally carries them. A shrug is made to Vixen when she is halted and her thug repellant is pointed out. It looks that that answered that question. He'll wait for her before moving inside to see just what wonderful pamphlets and materials await them. If they actually have any written text, he'd be surprised.

Rubidia follows Vixen in, handing over hr bow without any quarrel. "What do you think they would decide to do?" She asks Vixen, aware of common suspicion of CS and looking to be more interested in Vixen's personal take.

Vixen smirks when she gets stopped and slips the can out to hand it over casually. She adjusts her camera as they go in and glances towards Rubidia with a faint smirk. "I tend to not assume. That way, I'm hopefully ready for anything. We'll see, won't we?" Inside, she has her camera open and ready, linked to her headjack, she aims it without using the viewfinder, her head panning independent to it's orientation.

Galvin looks up and notcing Leonard and Vixen enter the building he gives both of them a slight nod in greeting and recognition. He goes to take his seat as he notices the CS officer getting ready to start.

As people take in the sights of the hall Daniel stands to nod to everyone as a whole. "Welcome, all of you. Please help yourself to the refreshments and information to the left and an available seat. All the documentation is available in writen and recorded medias." He greets openly. His tone isn't super friendly, more of a sincere optimism spoken from someone who beleives in the cause.

Rubidia nods to Vixen's answer, accepting it if she doesnt look to understand it. No matter as she is soon off to the side tables to help herself to one of everything. Arms ladern she then looks to finding a seat thats not too conspicuous but not nose bleed either. She settles on the fithth row.

"We'll see what we see." Leonard takes up pamphlets as light reading material, passing on the refreshments. Afterwards, he finds a seat to watch the show. It should be ...interesting, at least.

Vixen nods towards Galvin, though she peels off to the side a bit, finding a place to stand where she can get a good angle on the whole room. With the camera, of course. She leaves Leo to gather copies of the material while she starts filming. For the moment looking for any interesting reactions amongst the gathered people.

Galvin is sitting closer to the front now as he leans forward to listen and watch what Daniel is doing and saying. He idly flips through the booklet as he waits for the presentation to begin.

"Well now, lets get this started." The major says to indicate his presentation is about to begin. "First of all let me be clear. I'm not here to talk about anything the Coalition Military is doing now or has in the past. Questions about such activities will be welcome though after the presentation. Let me say my peace, present our perspective, then I will welcome your reactions." He clairifies calmly, his deep blue eyes scanning the room for general approval.

Rubidia quitly munches on a muffin while she peruses the booklet and the presentation starts. She doesnt look overly satisfied with the booklet though. Lots of pictures and talk about humanity's future, little specifics.

Leonard lifts a brow at that and glances to Vixen, his words polite in volume but audible to those immediately seated nearby. "If we ignore all they've done or are doing, they /would/ seem very trustworthy and benevolent, wouldn't they?"

Vixen isn't too near, but she does cock her head slightly as Leo speaks, Though her focus remains on the presenter. The camera shifted to him as he begins, her head only occasionally turning. Keeping tabs on the room at large by sight and hearing. She doesn't speak herself, seeming content to let the man have his piece for the time being.

Galvin turns his head to look at Leonard as he asks his question. Galvin smiles slightly for a moment, before turning his expression blank again. He turns to look at the CS officer and waits patiently for either a response or the presentation.

"You see folks, we're not here to talk about the Coalition's military conquests. We're here to talk about your future, your children's future, and their children's future. We're here to talk about the future of humanity, and how doing something is far better than nothing. We're here to secure the future." Daniel continues, showing no reaction to Leonard's comment. "Let me some all that up in a rhetorical question. What is the future of humanity worth?"

Rubidia also smirks at Leonard's comment finding it quite relevant as she sips her soda. Though as the presentation continues her attention focuses on the major.

At least one answer is considered for that rhetorical question, but Leonard simply keeps his lips closed in a smile. He can let the man speak his piece, for the moment. In the meantime, he skims over the latest propaganda in his hands.

Vixen smirks at the line that the presenter choses to walk. She doesn't seem overly surprised by it, casually murmuring for the camera's mic, "Typical line. Don't look at our bad, look to the bad we want you to see in others alone." Other than that soft 'stage whisper', she remains silent and focused.

Galvin continues to focus on the Major's presentation. He keeps quiet, not wanting to draw any attention to himself.

Daniel nods solemnly slowly pa cing before those in attendance. "Its no easy thing to calculate. I have tried on many occasions. I have wondered if we are paying too much for that future. Every soldier has, there is no shame in it. My ultimate conclusion was that the cost for our future must not be our humanity. Many nations have paid that cost already and fallen to be inhuman. Kingsdale is not one of them, nor is Lazlo, or Laramy, perhaps not even Tolkeen, but they are close."

Gabriel wanders into town, the picture-perfect example of someone just looking around, someone from the "sticks" as they might say. He's dressed as he would normally be in the city, but with a heavier trenchcoat - one that any normal person would wear - and wht appears to be just a simple game-hunting rifle across his back. His face clearly recognizes others, nodding to one person in particular, and meandering over to where they're perched. Too late to know what is being discussed.

Rubidia is in the 5th row, munching on the complimentray food as she listens closely to what the decorated major is saying. "I've heard worse recruiters." She remarks idly, keeping her tone neutral.

"The reasonable line drawn, to dispel the ingrained wariness," Vixen murmurs to the camera. She's standing to one side in the room, a place where she has a clear view of the room. A small handheld camera is trained on the presenter, a slender datacord linking it to a point behind her right ear. A discreet headjack. "While setting up an edge of unease with those places that aren't in their control." Her words are said softly, for the camera's microphone to pick up alone. Though augmented ears will likely be able to pick them out in the quiet room.

Galvin leans forward in his seat as he listens to the presentation. He raises an eyebrow skeptically at the mention of other cities, but he says nothing.

"So I can clarify," Leonard interrupts, even going so far as to raise his hand, "how, exactly, do you define the hunaity we should not lose, and to whom does it apply? That is a rather important part of the discussion, and I'd hate to misinterperet."

Daniel turns at the interuption but does not look derailed or upset at all. Rather he nods to Leonard. "Well to best answer that question lets turn back the clock. Lets remember the world of legend, the world before the great cataclysm. In that time there where humans and the creations of humans. All living peacefully, a golden age. Now move the clock ahead without the near total destruction of society. Magic returns to the earth, thousands of new races make contact. Many of both are peaceful and useful. Many are not. But as society was not crippled, was not already fighting for its every breath, the threat the represent is much smaller. Alas, thats not how history unfolded. It is because of this that the Coalition has not had time to consider the benfits of magic or acceptance of other races. We are not in the golden age. We are fighting for our every breath. A fight we are commited to win."

Rubidia gaps on the little history lesson, looking to be distracted by her phamplet and muffin again.

As Gabriel walks over and quietly takes a seat near - but not next to - Rubidia, he raises a hand in the air and offers a little pro-humans whistle. His spoken words do not come as an interruption, merely as one fool might shout at at a crowd of people at a campaign rally: "Golden age! Win the fight!" The musician is acknowledged with a sly wink that says simply, "Assholes," and a nod indicates the direction of the CS officer.

"Pressing need justifies the slaughter of the innocent and the repression of knowledge and those things different or dangerous," Vixen murmurs in casual translation to the handheld camera that she has pointed at the presenter. As before, she seems content to let him speak without open interruption her words kept for later use by the recording device. She's standing off to the side of the room, where she can easily capture the speaker's words and person.

Galvin chuckles softly to himself as the interuptions to the CS officer's presentation seem to increase. He leans back and sips on his cup of iced tea as he waits to see what kind of show the presentation might evolve into.

Alonzo makes his way into the town hall, having stowed away his traveling armor, and weapons. As he passes into the town hall, he gives a little condescending smirk to the commando's guarding the entrance, but otherwise submits to their searches willingly before moving into the meeting room to find himself a seat.

The major scowls at the mockery but says nothing. In fact he quickly moves on confidently as he sees a handful of his audience sharing the sentiment to the late comer. "So that is where we stand now. Nothing is going to change that. No miracle or catastrophy will happen tomorrow to change that. The question is where do you stand? The choice is yours, we dont hunt individuals down simply for not siding with us. Your choice will not affect us or our actions. It will affect you, your children, your childrens children. Siding with us gaurantees a future for all of them. Safe, protected, and human. A single family members choice to join the Coaltion military elevates the family as a whole. We know the price of such commitment. We pay our debts, generously."

Surprisingly Rubidia is among the handful scowling at Gabriel. Turning away she sighs, visibly not pleased. "Way to make a positive impression Gabe." She remarks coldly with a shake of her head.

With a tentatively raised hand, Gabriel speaks - his drawl completely absent - "So, if I enlist with you guys, what happens to my family? Do you guys move them up to someplace nice, or do I just send money home? How, ah, well, you know, how does that work?" Honest question? Who knows. In either case, there are no visible apologies to anyone who disagreed with his pro-humanity entrance. "Would I get to see them often?"

"We're not really against those who aren't with us, but safety only comes with us," Vixen murmurs softly her personal translation. "An interesting contradiction." She smiles faintly, the expression she wears lightly amused. But she remains a non-disturbance for now.

Galvin turns his head to look at Gabriel. His lips frown ever so slightly, but he tries not to give away too much. He turns back to the officer to see how he responds. His hands figet as his sides as he toys around with a multi-tool that was in one of his pockets.

Alonzo finds, and takes a seat nearby some of the other kingsdale visitors, crossing his arms a little as he lounges back to listen to the exchange between Gabriel and the Major.

An armoured figure appears in the door. Another Coalition soldier, and in the top pof that it is a Psi-Stalker as the spiked helmet of the old-styled armour signs. But the colour of the skull-faced armour is different. It is camouflage pattern, mostly for forest environment, only the PSI sign remained of the original rank of the unit. The figure walks in, armed with the traditional grunt weapons of the Coaltion, plus the additional close combat weapons of the Psi-Stalkers, neuro-mace, retracted vibro-claws, vibrokinfe at the belt. The new arrival glances around before it heads toward a wall.

In Gladiator armor, a second armoured figure follows a few moments after the one in Coalition armor. Unlike the other one, this person is carrying a small child. There is a little uncertainty as she wanders in and looks around. Any weapons she has are easily left at the door as instructed.

"In summary, you affirm that all who side with the Coalition will have safety and protection," Leonard reiterates to clarify, "so long as they are not a member of any race, group, or other affiliation that the Coalition does not have time to consider benign?"

The major nods to Leonard to confirm that. "Sharing the interests of humanity would be better wording than benign but in principle yes." He agrees before reconsidering Gabriel. "Upon you acceptance into the Coalition Military Your family would be invited to be processed and share in your citizenship. Once complete they may establish themselves in the city of your stationing. The duration and frequency of leave is dependant on your unit responcibility. We average 6 weeks on 2 weeks off." He explains in a formal tone, looking to be done with the main part of the presentation and open to questions.

Rubidia remains quiet for the moment, content to listen to the questions of others.

"Wooow," Gabriel allows in what sounds to be a genuinely interested voice. "You know, I have to kinda just listen t'stuff, but that sounds even better than what they say about the Golden Age. Wow. So then, there Coalition hasn't changed 'r nothing, right? Just humans? Y'know, regular humans, no exceptions? Cuz my family we've grown up that way." The fool then gives some really supportive nods to a few people around him who may care. "But, ah, well, what happens to the non-humans? I mean, I don't love 'em or anything, but gee, maybe they just get sent off to a reservation, maybe?" Ah yes, Broadway, here we come.

Vixen smirks faintly and lets that go without commentary, her amusement lingering lightly. But like all else, seh keeps it discreet and continues to film the man, for now not leaving him, even as people offer questions and comments.

Galvin frowns as soon as he sees a psi-stalker enter into the building. He adjusts his glasses while gnawing on his lower lip nervously. He closes his eyes for a moment before concentrating briefly. He slumps in his chair trying to create less of a profile.

The newly arrived Psi-stalker handed over the weapons dutyfully. And then when the Psi-stalker finds her place she removes the spiked helmet. Indeed she, as an Asian woman hides behind of the skull-faced helmet, but unlike of the rest of the pis-stalkers, she does have a hair, black and straight, though her skin is palish, like a stalker, and her almond-shaped eyes are grey. She stares at the mayor quetly, but there is something in her eyes which close enough for something one could describe as a hatred, anger, impatience. And then after Gabriel's words she begins in her husky voice. "Believe me they will use any non-humans if they will find useful. They use dogs after all, and they use stalkers. Though none of them can be a full fledged citizen, right?" she beams a smile on the mayor. "Please tell me about the status of this abomination a bit deeper. Or you might want to tell about the Internal Security's methods?"

Alonzo glances over towards Gabriel, "Plenty of D-bees live around the Coalition City States. and they've been plenty peaceful to other north american city states and governments. You really don't know fuckall about what's going on here in north america, do you?" he says, brow raising a little. He looks towards the Major, once again, "What about opportunities for mercenary work for the Coalition States?"

For her part, Sage has been in Laramy before without incident despite being a psychic. She seems more concerned about the child than the psi-stalker. She does glance over at Katsumi, though, before she begins to gravitate towards the familiar people.

Leonard returns the nod to the officer. "I can understand the desire to come and recruit others, then. With such conveniently variable qualifications, citizenship must change daily. As for those not fortunate enough to meet those," he looks towards Alzono, "many live around the city-states. Many also die around them, most due to the useful stalkers and hounds."

Daniel shakes his head slightly, showing no signs of pressure from all the questions. "Many of you seem to be forgetting who's world this is. Humanity was entrusted with its stewardship, no other. To aid in that they have created and recruited other races, to serve humanity. One should make that distinction clear, we are human, we are protecting and providing for humanity. Other races would not be of concern if they respected that this is our world. We know and understand that not all races choose to come here. We would not have any problem with these lost beings if the kept their distance while we recover from the cataclysm. But they dont. Every day dozens of Coalition soldiers die from aggressive alien attacks. Some times the attackers are easily recognized as a certain race. Often not. Rubbing salt in our wounds is no way to ask for compasion."

"Then what about Humans who have exceeded their normal potential, psychics and mages?" Rubidia asks clearly, politely. She's looking a bit bewildered at the ambient hostility in the room. Feeling on the wrong side of the inquisition.

Katsumi, the Asian stalker glances at Alonzo and nods. "Indeed there is a few D-bees around of the burbs of Chi-Town for example. They are a good shooting practice." she turns to Leonard with a smirk. "Beat the arm to follow the order of mind my friend." she turns to Daniel. "Indeed. I've been told of this many times. we are the savior of the human kind, and we are the front-line who will protect the human kind. But the fact is the human kind is destined to die. And one of the reason is the blindness of teh Coalition to recognize the main threats, and killing fellow humans in kingdomns that does not follow the Emperor's leadership." she crosses her arms bellow her chest. She turns to Rubidia and nods if the question would be aimed to her. "You will get a nice chip implant of you are a psi. Of course you can't enter into certain places if you have high potential. The mages would be devoured by the stalkers."

Gabriel raises his stupid hand again and waves it like a second-grader. "Oh! That is a good question. Where does the emperor draw the line? I mean, there has to be a line somewhere. Or, well.. yeah, right?" He frowns a little and adds, "I should talk to my wife about this."

Vixen remains quietly amused, content to let other people toss out their voices for now. Though she maintains a quiet, calculating edge to her expression as she records the man doing the fielding still. No longer narrating for the moment and not adding to the steady din of words.

Galvin frowns as the arguing seems to heat up a little. He keeps his eyes ahead trying not to dart looks at the woman behind the psi-stalker helmet. He looks at the CS officer for a moment and shakes his head ever so slightly as he looks a little sad. He looks at Katsumi as she talks and he frowns at her before turning his head back to Major Daniel.

If she'd realized how things would be like here, Sage may have decided to just stay at home. She gives a faint sigh, before lightly poking the child as she can't help but think this might be up Tirzah's alley. "People kill each other all the time." She comments simply, deciding to avoid casting any illusions one way or the other.

Alonzo nods to Leonard, "Yeah, and plenty of people get killed in the Kingsdale slums too. People get killed anywhere people mass together. Hell, the Kingsdale cops are more likely to shoot some mage fuckin' around on one of the lines then they are to invite him to keep on going." he says with a shrug of his shoulders, "And from my experience, the Coalition's made nice with more nations then they've gone to war with."

The major nods slightly to Alonzo in recognition before looking to the other. Psychics are welcome to help serve humanity provided they are willing to respects the rights of humanity. To this end the psychic registry and encoding is designed to offer normal humans free sense of security among psychic citizens. The coalition states is not currently ready to explore the vagaries of citizens who can do magic. Not until it can be regulated and controlled to keep all citizens safe. Currently as we understand it magic is power beyond civil control. It is chaos, it often upsets the balance and rights of others."

Rubidia nods slightly, looking a bit turned off by the psychic registry program.

"We humans need protected from ourselves, also, of course." Leonard encompasses Katsumi's, Alonzo's, Rubidia's, and even Sage's comment all at once, but only the last two receive anything close to a smile. He then looks to the major to confirm. "That is the reason for expansion, war, and restrictions, yes? D-bees, magic, psionics, knowledge, free will... all these things /could/ be dangerous, so we must stamp them all out, just to be safe?" After a pause, he asks, "Women can be rather chaotic and unpredictable. Can they be added to that list, as well?" Leonard even attempts to do so with a straight face.

Katsumi laughs dryly as her smoldering grey eyes rest on Alonzo. "Obviously you never ended on the wrong side of the list of the Coalition. A creature cursed or blessed by the psionic ability are either useful as a creature to kill or has to be exterminated. Anything out of control would have the same future." she smirks and rubs her chin, her helmet rests on her back, hanging on a string "And sadly, despite of my eirler enthusiasm was quickly dried by the realization that the Coalition has no aggenda of the real threats." she clears her thrat and flashes her eyes on Daniel. "Indeed. Control. Control the beasts that rest in our soul, as we are not humans. We could be just servants of the humanity. We could just bleed for them but we can't even walk into the same restaurant."

Once again waving his hand like a grade-schooler, Gabriel asks, "Mr. Soldier, um, Major, if I enlist soon, where would I be sent? North, south? Somewhere else?" He then sounds a little more ambitious. "You know, where's the action right now? Is there a bonus for being on the front lines?" Anyone ignoring him, thinking he's a fucking idiot, or any other such dissatisfaction continues to be ignored themselves.

Vixen casually glances towards Leo at his words, though the camera in hand remains steadily focused. Her smirk grows and a shake of her head is given before she surveys the others casually. Her own expression an odd sort of amused contentment. Still she seems agreeable to holding her silence, yet what is said is marked, no matter where it comes from. Galvin looks at the exit as he feels the tone of this gathering heading south. He adjusts his glasses as he tries to decide if he wants to exit the presentation yet. He quickly finishes off the iced tea he was drinking as he waits to see what happens.

For the time being, Sage seems to just listen and try to keep the baby entertained instead of crying and making a fuss as a debate rages nearby.

"I'm not a psychic, or a demon worshipper, or anything if that's what you mean." Alonzo responds to Katsumi, "But I've sure as hell been on the wrong side of psychics and wizards. Having a little restriction on that shit is fine for me. I can't carry my railgun into town, but a psychic can carry his brain unhindered, and it's probably more destructive. Seems a double standard there to me." He says with a shrug. "And like you, and the Major here said you can be a psychic, you just have to register the fact. I have to register any cybernetics or bionics and I wouldn't have a problem doing that. Seems a fair trade, if you've got the power inherent, or built in, that you have to take some responsibility for the fact."

Daniel chuckles, giving a shake of his head. "Oh yes, women can be chaotic, so can men. The line is drawn at being able to incapacitate or kill and entire room full of people. At being able to assualt someone from down the street. At being able to take someone else free will with but a thought. All these are the dangers we are protecting against. All these are dangers that dont exist in Coalition cities. So do you like living with the possibility? Or would you prefer an existance not so subject to the whims of others? How many here have lost someone to the supernatural. How many would take comfort knowing that isnt possible." He poses before giving a slight pause. "I think that will do for questions today though. All of you are certainly welcome to reattend tomorrow if there is more you wish to discuss."

Katsumi nods to Alonzo. "As you wish. Write down the contract. It does seem to be a fair trade, but some of us had no option. And you will soon find that some among the citizen are more equal, despite they are the same human being as you. Shall I tell you how some of the IS involved by spying upon their own citizen, political rivals." she flashes her eyes on Daniel. "It does sound good what you tell, but in the end you send us to do the humanity's dirty work. We are the one in the front line along with your creations."

Rising to his feet, a man ready to return to what is probably an exciting life on a farm, Gabriel shrugs and appears to commiserate with both sides.. more on the CS side, as the meeting comes to a close. He offers a little wave toward the major, and quietly says, "Thanks, I learned a lot about the Coalition today. It's a lot to think about." Wow, an honest statement! He then begins to shuffle toward the door, nodding at others as he passes, particularly Alonzo, who seems to be also running the whole, "Coalition isn't so bad," thing at the moment.

Sage's head simply hangs as she hears both things that hit a particular mark, but seems to control her reaction beyond that. A breath is taken and let out. There is a seductive quality to what's being said and she glances over towards the Coalition recruiter, though. But, it takes her a moment to think they are but honey coated words "You can reduce the risk, but I doubt you can prevent other bad things from happening." She comments softly, more to herself as she looks away from the recruiter. Then, she glances towards Katsumi.

Rubidia nods slightly at the conclusion to follow shortly after Gabriel, seeming to share his sentiment on what to think about.

"You stopped short," Vixen says then. She straightens and keeps her camera focused on the major as she speaks. "Why don't you ask them what its like to be held ignorant. I hear most of the people in your little utopia can't read. Not by choice, but because they're not given the chance. You hide and restrict knowledge. It's easy to be safe in a prison cage, even if the cage is gilded in gold. Who needs mental powers to take someone's will when you can do it with propaganda and lies. Twisting the truth to meet your vision of what is."

Vixen glances to the side, looking out towards the people there, known and not. "Everyone's got a choice. The question is, how much of yourself are you willing to give up for safety? Me? I love my freedom. Sure, maybe some critter or fuckwad will come along trying to screw with me, but that's why I keep a sidearm and the will to mist any fucker who wants to step up to me without batting an eye."

The young woman turns her attention back to the major, giving him a smooth little smile. "You talk a decent line, but the ignorant are the only ones that are going to believe it. Control is what the Coalition is all about. You and yours want to control everything, including the people who you protect. One happy, focused little whole without true free will amongst them. Deny it all you want, but anyone who looks, listens and thinks will know what's real."

Galvin stands at the conclusion of Major Daniel's speech and starts making his way out of the building. Exiting quickly he goes to stand over by his ATV. He lingers around as he leans against the large vehicle to watch the people who are exiting from a distance.

"I can find that anywhere I've been." Alonzo says to Katsumi, "Men aren't created as equals. That's pretty clear to anyone." He shrugs his shoulders as he rises up, offering a nod towards Gabriel himself before he starts towards the exit as well.

Leonard also stands and moves from his seat, giving Katsumi a glance and comment in passing. "Better to risk someone ...less than human, of course." He isn't snide, but rather sarcastic in his tone, but continues past her and towards Vixen. Her very blunt observation leaves him forced to grin widely.

Katsumi simply ignores Alonzo and beams to Vixen. "Indeed. It was lovely to be ordered to look for prohibited books. Especially as some of them implies a death sentence. Of course some of the elite could get along with anything. And if we are talking the education perhaps this fine officer could talk about the capital's offer as well? Chi-Town, the mighty fortress of layers of classes. How the outside poor souls want to crawl in just to realize they will be forced into the down levels of unkept machinery. Of course the elite up there gets everything they want. Even the education."

As things begin to wind down to a close, Sage begins to drift towards the door with the child still in her grasp. She does keep an eye on Katsumi with a thoughtful look as she considers the words being offered. But, she doesn't only watch the woman, she glances towards the Coalition people in the room to see how they are reacting to this venting. Alonzo makes his way out onto the street without any further conversation and makes his way across the town towards the Tavern.

Of all the comments made in his closing Major Daniel Carter only chooses to reply to Vixens. "I am very sorry for your loss. To be so damaged by this lifestyle that you fight to protect it. To be so jaded and lose all view of humanity. Well it is very sad. We failed you in that regard, we did not show you the options while you still believed in them. This is why I am a recruiter, for every person like you I fail I aspire to save five others. It is a goal I often exceed." He notes before making his own way out, the commandos flanking himas he departs.

Katsumi sighs and follows the group to gather her own equipment. She does check them suspiciously if everything is working finelly and then she arms herself. She does not reply in any way to Daniel and keeps her sight away of Sage.

Rubidia lingers in the hall as everyone else makes to depart, being very quiet as she reads through the pamplet again.

Galvin unlocks the door of his ATV and climbs up into the vehicle. The ATV starts up and he starts making his way back to Kingsdale.

Vixen laughs and shakes her head. "Nice try, man." she tosses after him. "Choices are what I'm all about." She turns, addressing those that linger as she says, "Out here, you have choices. You do what you want, you protect what you want, you believe in what you want. You control your destiny, you master your fate and make your place, your mark." She lifts her free hand after the recruiter and commandos. "With them, you believe what they believe, you act how they want you to act or you suffer. What you believe and care for, if it doesn't match what they want, isn't worth a dime." She shakes her head. "You want to live in a cage, go for it. You want to be free, you know what to do." She looks to Leo as he comes near and smiles, extending her free hand to lightly link with his arm. "Nothing even close to failure here, people. Through the rough and tumble, I live and learn and make my place." A simple, focused confidence in her words and expression.

As she moves to depart, Sage will pass Rubidia. "We should talk at some point." She comments, before glancing to make sure things are winding down. That there isn't any commotion over the jaded words spoken is a relief, and she'll pass along unless Rubidia wants to do more than acknowledge the comment.

"I think you did pretty good for yourself," Leonard confesses to Vixen with a wink, "but I'm also just a little biased." He lingers comfortably at her side to look over the general reactions of those who didn't speak up already. Sage is spotted again, which turns some of his casual comfort into concern.

Rubidia looks to Sage and nods. "Oh Hi Sage." She greets slowly collecting herself to leave the hall. "Gabriel metnioned Tirzah's dissapearance so if you are not doing spa sessions for now in light of that I understand completely. I'm content to wait for yoor issues to be resolved before I ask you to ease my burdens." She offers compassionately with a forgiving nod.

Katsumi glances around and makes sure no one is following her and then she begins her journey almost in the same way as Sage heads, though she does not walk as fast as the other woman. Neither shows any attempt to join to the conversation Sage and Rubidia started.

Vixen smirks at Leo and says, "Let's get moving. Before any accidents happen," she murmurs, grinning casually. She starts to head towards the world outside, her arm lingering mingled with Leo's, though as she notes Sage, she lifts a hand towards her. "I'm going to get you those blinders soon," she says. "Whose kid?" Noting the baby as she approaches. She glances at Rubidia and wonders, "So what do you think of all that?" Her head tilted towards where the major was standing.

"Hey..." Sage replies simply before considering the words that the other woman speaks. She takes a moment to think on what she'd planned to offer. "Thank you." She decides upon, feeling mildly defeated before she could even speak a word. "Excuse me." She adds, as she moves off with her thoughts in a tangle.

Leonard nods and accompanies Vixen on the way out. "With any luck, they'll behave. If nothing else, the major and his goons will need to follow the propaganda, for now." He nods to Sage, also, and doesn't interrupt her departing with anything further. As much as he feels the need to say /something,/ the hard part is determining what to say.

Rubidia shrugs at Vixen, her expression showing she doesnt know what to think. "He was very careful not to exagerate, which he didnt have to be. You got a bit over the top in the end there. None of that changes that I could never go there. Their chip would probably strip me of a lot of what makes me special. Considering I'm pretty safe in the outsiode world, thats not worth paying."

Vixen frowns faintly after Sage, a bit mystified at the lack of response, But after a moment she shrugs and looks towards Rubidia. "I was speaking truth, but you should know emotion is what sells. Nothing I said was false. The Coalition is all about control. They want to control everything. Wouldn't surprise me if they tried to tell you what to play if you went there to do a gig. People need to remember.. it might be dangerous out here, but out here, we're free. That's worth everything."

"He did exagerrate," Leonard adds his opinion, "in the opposite direction. He understated in the extreme. Those who they fear are either controlled or killed. Those with a chip or identification code could be considered the fortunate ones."

"And the government here doesnt? People wanting to control everything is nothing new. Simply a matter of scale. Freedom is a matter of perspective. That officer didnt get ot be where he is by being another drone in a faceless war machine. He got there because he has ambition. He has ambition because he has freedom. He made his choices and he is doing alright from them. I could not make those choices, but I am not him. I dont think the human spirit is so easily tamed. Not as you warn, not as they wish. Just food for thought, those are people living in those cities, fighting in those suits. They have dreams and wishes just like me." Rubidia remarks calmly.

Vixen shakes her head slightly and grins at Rubidia. "The military is all about being part of the hive mind," she opines. "Kingsdale isn't perfect either, but there you have more freedom than the Coalition will give you. You're free to find a place you like better. The Coalition?" She shakes her head. "Didn't call them a cage for nothing." She leans into Leo lightly as she adds, "I know they're people. But when their dream is destroying my home, they lose the right to get much sympathy from me. I bet they'd jam my signal if I can reach any of their territories."

Leonard sighs, more at the pleasant lean than any sympathy. "They're people, but so are all those they've killed. The only choice they give most is obey or die. "

"Many of them dont comprehend that though.. Really He was right in one point. Nothing we do is going to change them. So our choices are our own, open to all possibilities. Their choices are made, reifned to the path the coalition marches." Rubidia says in reply, looking satisfied with that. "So I have some thought to put to my choices, if you'll excuse me." She bids as she retrieves her bow but pauses to look back to Leonard. "And I'd like my shirt back sometime sir, they dont make that brand here."

"We can convince these folks in Laramy to not make at least one wrong choice," Vixen says, her voice light. "Which was what my words were all about. They can still make it, but they can't say someone didn't try and give 'em word." She glances towards Leo as Rubidia mentions her shirt, a firm look given to him, mingled with question.

"I don't expect to change /their/ minds," Leonard begins, "Just those of-" He stops suddenly at the comment, just a wee bit flabbergasted at the change of topic. "Well... I can return it to you any time you wish. I just didn't think to bring it with me here." Leonard attempts to shrug fairly nonchalantly at Vixen, but it doesn't counter the blush. "I did mention it to you, not that I recall anything before fingding it..."

"Well as soon as you can if you would. Room five floor five of the happy days in. Thats close enough to where you got it so you shouldnt get lost." She instructs pleasantly. "Shield your eyes." She then warns and gives them both a moment to do so before the becomes blindingly bright and disappearing in a flash.

Vixen lets her firm look linger on Leo for a moment before she returns her attention to Rubidia. The warning makes her frown faintly, though when the flash comes, she turns her head against Leo's shoulder, protecting herself from part of it at least. Blinking after, she considers Leonard thoughtfully. "You can mail her the shirt," she tells him simply. Literally, by her firm tone.

Day 2

The familiar form of Gabriel's oddly-camouflaged armor breaks from the exact point in the treeline where he'd told everyone he'd go last night. Except he was plain and squishy at bedtime. Now he's armored and armed, though his only heavy weapon is a slightly-battered L-20. His helmet is hooked at his waist. The interesting thing is that those insignia that he bares proudly on his left breast, and the epaulets and collar insignia have been covered by pieces of cloth that blend right into the camouflage.

The news of Coalition in Laramy reaches many ears, including those whom are not likely the intended guests. Daeni emerges from the trail into the familiar town and makes immediate note of armored soldiers. To no surprise, she is dressed and armed as she ever is.

The commandos make no special notice of the more protected and armed inidividuals as of yet. They stand passively by the doors to the hall hands passively at ease.

Galvin lingers outside of the meeting hall, near his ATV. He glances regularly at the Commandos that stand at the doors. He puts away his computer after a few minutes and frowns down at the ground with his hands in his pockets. He fidgets regularly, taking drinks out of his bottle of soda quickly.

Making his way across the open area, dodging the other beings - both human and not-quite-so-human - the colonel from the past sidles up near Galvin. Not that Gabriel and Galvin are close friends, just that he knows him. Leaning against the ATV on a single hand and scratching at his nose with the other, he quietly asks, "Are these guys regular infantry, or something special? If you know. Apologies for wrecking your peace and quiet."

Alonzo has just excited the Saloon himself, giving a little stretch as he comes out into the fresh laramy air. He gives pause outside the Saloon to take in the sights and sounds of the small town.

Daeni walks for the pair of soldiers and the doors which they flank, with little else a priority at present. Several known faces are recognized before they are passed, yet her interest is in the Coalition. The recruitment is within, to her knowledge, thus she moves to enter the building.

"They don't have much in the way of weapons. Just some neural maces and some vibro blades built into their armor. They are special forces for sure with the armor issue. Watch out for the built in garrotes." Galvin says in a low voice as he keeps looking down at the ground. "I haven't seen anything out of place yet, but being this close makes me nervous."

The commandos snap to attention as Daeni intends to enter and hold up their hands to signal halt. "No weapons are permited inside the hall durring the rally miss." They order sharply, barring her way so long as she is armed.

Gabriel nods, "Thanks, that's the information I was looking for. I'll take care of it later. Gotta get into the lecture now." May be an odd way to say things, but perhaps it makes sense to him. He then easily walks up to the door, checking all of his weapons, every last one of them, exactly as he's asked to, then enters the room and looks for a nice place to sit.

Alonzo is on his way across the main street, heading in the general direction of the meeting hall. He doesn't seem in any hurry to get anywhere, at the moment anyway, but merely a casual stroll down the street.

Daeni pauses, if primarily due to surprise. A scowl and immediate tension in her posture immediately mark her disapproval while she regards the men with narrowed eyes. Several heartbeats pass before she snorts and removes her swordbelt and bow. "Want keep your weapons, take others. Is coward way." She tosses the items to the side of the door. Better in the dirt than surrendered. "Or thief. Will not steal." The directive to the soldiers leaves no room for debate, yet copious suspicion, before she now steps forward.

Galvin lets out a small sigh and concentrates for a brief moment before he walks, unarmed, into the meeting hall. He keeps his head down as he walks inbetween the commandos and into the building. After looking around for a moment he takes a seat halfway up, near an aisle.

The weapons surrendered the soldiers sharply move aside, showing no further issue with the elf.

Doing absolutely nothing special, Gabriel grabs a seat toward the middle of the room, but far off to the right side, as seen from the position of the audience. Then, he just waits. Nothing much to do without talking to strangers.

Alonzo makes it up to the meeting hall himself, currently unarmed, having left his weapons back with the rest of his traveling gear. He waits his turn to enter the meeting hall, and once in moves to find himself a seat as well.

Inside the hall Daniel Carter sits behind his table calmly reading a book. To his side is a steaming breverage and the references for the rally. As people filter in, some new, some old, he looks up from the book to give a slight nod before leaning back to consider those present.

Vixen comes into the hall again, a casual smile on her lips as she moves around the edge of the room back to the same place she stood the other day. She's left her guns behind for now and has a donut in her other hand, which she nibbles at the last bits of as she leans against the wall casually. Studying the people about. Though as the major looks up, she grins and casually salutes him with the donut before resuming her enjoyment. Amused? Yes.

Once inside, Daeni claims a spot for herself at the front of the seating by crouching upon the chosen chair. The man before her is scrutinized heavily with a thorough, if blatant, stare, yet she is otherwise silent. If the Coalition are present to talk, perhaps she will listen.

Galvin fidgets in his chair as he tries to become comfortable. He looks around the room trying to see who else is there. After a few minutes of looking around he takes out his hand held computer and starts using it to distract himself

Yawn and stretch, one eye pressed closed hard, the other one open wide. Gabriel's back flexes as bet it can inside of armor plate. His hands then drop back into his lap, and his feet push his chair back a tad, sitting at a healthy incline, paying little attention to anyone who may be behind him. Just sitting and waiting.

Alonzo's attention seems to move to rest upon Daeni for a few moments as she takes a spot up near the front, scrutinizing her briefly before he relaxes back into his chair for the speech making to begin.

Vixen pops the last bit of her donut into her mouth, lightly cleaning each finger with her tongue before she rubs it against the side of her coat. Casually relaxing after, her attention falling to her camera as she prepares it, including linking it to her headjack once more. She looks up and then settles her camera into a good posture to be held and capture the man on the stage, ready for when he'll get started.

"Well than, welcome and welcome back everyone." The major greets as he moves to rise. "So good that many of you felt it worth to come to the second day of this event. Hopefully I can provide enough new insight to keep your attention and still catch up on what was said yesterday. First though a review of process, please hold your questions until the end of the presentation. I will be quit willing to take time to answer as many as I can without letting things drag on too long." He explains calmly to those attending. "Not come listen before." Whether the words are a correction or an implied need for review, they are the first Daeni speaks since her arrival. They are also not a question, so she feels no need to hold them until later.

Galvin keeps quiet, slumping in his seat to keep a low profile. He puts away his computer as the Major comes out. He listens carefully as he pays attention to the Major's presentation.

Gabriel drums his fingers idly on his elbow, arms crossed. His face molds into a slight disapproval of Daeni's outburst, though quite a reasonable expression given the stakes and the rules in play. Alonzo sits there, quiet and attentive now as the Major starts the meeting.

Vixen glances towards Daeni as she speaks, but otherwise holds her peace for now. She's quite willing to do as she did before and play the silent game. For now, not translating softly for her camera, letting it draw in what is said.

"Well yesterday we established that the Coalition are not out to get anyone, regardless of race or practice, if they are not out to get us in our territory, or engaged in hostile activities near out territories. If all the alien races would respect that and let humanity recover from the cataclysm, well it would be much easier on everyone. Too bad its not reality." Daniel explains in a smooth recap of what was covered yesterday. "Today we're going to look inside the Coalition, we're going to disect the civil rights and freedoms for everyone to see."

Daeni's comparatively neutral expression hardens when the human reviews, and the sound she makes is somewhere between derisive snort and angered growl. "Lies! Slaughter whole village, many others. Were farmers, hunters, children. Never attack Coalition, not know Coalition. Not have weapons to fight, you butcher like maa!" Daeni points an accusing arm and finger to accentuate.

Galvin looks over towards Daeni's loud refutation and he cringes slightly. He looks towards the elf, then towards the Major and then towards the exit. He leans forward on his chair in case he needs to make a quick exit.

The man just stays rocking back slightly on his chair. Not so far as to be off-balance, just comfortable. Gabriel gives another disapproving stare at what is obviously an uncouth D-bee or alien who knows little to nothing about the rights of Man on this planet.

Alonzo's attention is drawn towards Daeni at her rather sudden outburst once again, brow lifting a little as he sits there, waiting to see how this exchange turns out. Vixen glances towards Daeni again, a brow lifted. She adjusts her spot slightly, stepping back to widen the shot and turn the camera to try and fit both she and the Major into the shot. She just manages it and a contented smile settles in for her as she mutely films.

Daniel remains calm despite the out burst, nodding slowly in accpetance of the accusation. "I do not believe that an entire village of alien tresspassers could remain completely oblivious of the Coalition States. I do believe your claim that they were wiped out. Such is the fate of all alien tresspaser who do not respect our borders. So respect them. And please hold all further comments until the end miss." he states clearly to Daeni before moving on. "Rights and freedoms withing the Coalition states. Some would claim there are none. I am her to prove and as proof that they are wrong."

Some time is required for Daeni to fully process the man's words. As an 'alien trespasser,' her American is not complete and/or she may be mentally impaired. The moment that full comprehension is reached, her raised hand lowers to her side, curling into a fist in the process. Her scowl deepens and the muscles in her jaw clench in time to her hands.

Galvin's eyes dart from Daeni to the Major. As Daeni seemingly backs down he turns back towards Daniel. He takes out a paper notebook and a pencil and starts doodling.

There is a barely-audible "clunk" as Gabriel allows the front legs of his chair to fall forward and hit the ground. If anyone was near, they might have caught that he was on the verge of saying something himself, but the moment has passed, and he goes back to the bored-yet-interested expression that he'd been wearing since the little get-together started.

Alonzo huhs a bit as the impending disaster is diverted, at least for a short time, and he settles back once again into his chair, waiting for the major to continue.

Vixen smirks faintly at the response he gets off her. Casually she shifts the camera's focus back towards the man. After all, just how he's going to 'prove' things is of interest. She keeps her shoulder leaned into the wall, steady so the camera's view won't wobble.

"So what are a person's rights in the coalition states? First and foremost is the right to personal safety. A law abiding citizen of the Coalition states has the right to feel safe and secure at all times. All other rights are second to that most important right. The second right of a Coalition Citizen is the right to knowledge. Knowledge is power, knowledge can keep you safe. As such it is the duty of the Coalition to keep its citizens fully informed and retain access to vital knowledge. The third right of a Coalition citizen is the right to a personal future. We spend millions of credits a year on our society and ensuring every member meets his full potential." The major explains clearly, looking about for understanding after each right.

There is a marked difference between concession or relaxation and preparation to better impart one's own side of the argument. Not unlike the need to draw back a fist before striking, which is a very apt comparison for this moment. Daeni is off the chair and has a hand reaching for the throat of one major Coalition liar before the remainder of her even reaches his desk. "Give same rights give me!" Daniel claimed that he served as proof others were wrong, and now he can assist Daeni in proving himself the same.

Galvin blinks at the quick movements of Daeni. His mouth drops open in shock and it takes him a second to recover. He turns his head behind him to see what the commandoes are going to do. He crouches down so as to give a lower profile.

"HEY!" Gabriel's non-accented voice echoes across the room, rising just enough so that his rear end is off the seat, head barely raised above the average crowd height. "This is a meeting, not a debate! Let the man talk!" comes through a mouth surrounded by a pair of amplifying hands. However, Gabriel is not a total fool, and his eyes scan the commandos for signs of violence.

Alonzo echoes Gabriel's comments, "This is the sorta Kingsdale welcome you give the guests of Laramy?" he asks as Daeni jumps up at the Coalition Major. He rises from his seat as well, moving off to the edge of the room incase the commandos get antsy.

Vixen smirks faintly at these three rights as mentioned. Her head shakes slightly, but as before, she's content to let the man play out his rope. Then Daeni reacts and she jerks back instinctively, the camera's view jostling for a moment before it settles on her and the man she's now got in her grip. She licks her lips, her eyes flicking towards potential directions from which trouble can come. She will be moving to get out of the way of any potential crossfire, but otherwise, she keeps filming.

Suprisingly enough the commandos turn to show they are aware of the Major's distress but do not yet move to intercede. The major had made an effort to eveade Daeni's grasp but failed, he flails momentarily in the iron grip, his hands reaching for some sort of support from Daeni's body. "...sorry.. miss, but as you are threatening my personal safety... you have no rights.. further more, you are showing everyone in this room exactly what the Coalition would protect tyhem from.. Go... ahead.. Kill me. Make your demonstration. I'll be replaced in less than an hour, you will be dead, and together we will have made the Coalition stronger. Thank you..." He weezes softly.

Daeni pulls the man to her and snorts her distaste. He could be making a very valid point, were she inclined to care. Unfortunately, that he desires his death does remove a large portion of the pleassure from it for Daeni. "Only Coalition need protection. Are cowards, hide with lies. Live here hundred years, you here one day. Who is trespass? Leave." She aids him in that endeavor via a toss to rejoin him with his comrades at the door.

Galvin watches the major get tossed = by the elven woman. He bites down on his lower lip while frowning. He remains seated although crouched down. After the toss he watches the commandos to see what they will do now that the Major got thrown.

There will come a time in every man's life (or every woman's life) when he's in danger, and the simple fact is that the other guy is bigger and stronger and probably faster, too. All that remains is to hope the other guy is just some big dumb bastard, and you're smarter. Such is the situation in which Gabriel now feels that he is being thrust into. Normally, blending in and slinking away is a good way to attempt to deal with said situation. However, in this case, with a room full of potentially twitchy and frightened people - the kind who tend to stampede - he rises full to his feet. Saying nothing through words, but by action being quite ready to escape as quickly as possible, and damn who may see it happen. There are no enemies here, just a good time to keep to yourself. "Shit." He remains loose on his feet, just ready to decide which way to run, if it is in fact necessary.

"You're disrupting the man's speech. Either kill him, or go and let him finish talking." Alonzo says to the raging Elf woman, "You've got no right to Laramy far as I can tell, when he comes into Kingsdale then you can throw him out for trespassing."

Vixen is amused with what the major has to say. "Not bad," she murmurs to herself. Zooming in on the two a bit, though when he gets tossed, she zooms back out and turns the camera after the man's 'trajectory'. She sticks by the wall. A decent place to be. Though after the man stops, whatever state he's in, she zooms out to take in the scene at large better. The silent watcher.

The major slowly recovers, the commandos move to assist but he gestures from them not to. "Back to your posts." He tells them, massaging his throat. Then turning back he moves to retake his place at the front of the hall. "Actually miss, the Laramy officials did invite me here openly to do this rally. Your invitation though is no expired." On queue the six laramy militia stationed outside enter the hall and move to stand between the major and Daeni. "Miss you are requested to leave our township with no further violence. If you will not comply we will have to advise the others here to adjourn and remove you by force." The commander states, though he doesnt look to happy with his job right now.

"He want killed," Daeni explains to Alonzo with, perhaps, a touch of loss. "Not want please him." Her eyes never leave the major, however, whom she adresses next, now through the screen of militia. "Can wait. Tell lies, leave town. Maybe find on way. Is no challenge kill ones no armor, weapons. Am not Coaltion."

Galvin stands up from his chair and backs up against the wall as the militia members arrive. He looks around for any other exits from the room. His hands move from his pockets and he moves himself against the wall as best he can.

With a number of, "s'cuse me, s'cuse me, s'cuse me" as he makes his way off to the side of the room, Gabriel manages to bump knees and put his ass in peoples faces because that's just how it is when leaving a full row of people. Bitching is at a minimum as most people are more focused like deer on what's going on at the exit, locked into the single-circuit necessity that most people's brains contain. It has been learned long ago that actions in parallel are better than those in series, and now, parallel means getting ready to run, and watching for useful intelligence at the same time. BANG. So he wasn't paying total attention. Gabriel's knee manages to bang into the face of an elder, shorter man. Sheepish grin, and he then makes it into the open and against the wall.

Vixen keeps the focus broad, casually grinning as she takes in the scene. She remains quietly content to take in the minor disorder. Still amused by the whole thing, really.

The militia dont seem to be able to follow Daeni's broken speech but the fact she has not complied with their deamnd to leave is clear. With a sigh the commander turns to the major. "Sir I must advise you to adjourn the rally until tomorrow while we escort her out of town. Our humblest apologies and greats thanks for your respects." He bids before turning back to Daeni as the Major steps to the side of the Militia to address everyone. "Well then, looks like this will resume tomorrow. My apologies for this but we must let the Laramy officials govern their own." He announces before heading to the exit behind his audience.

Daeni offered no further violence and thus complied, although she could care less of the effects upon the Coalition envoy. She continues her steps from the room, expecting the commandos at the door to part for her exit. If they are so timid as to hold their tongues and delay their words for any interruption, perhaps she should return tomorrow. Eventually, they might leave, and would never be able to deliver their lies.

Galvin waits a few minutes after Daeni exits then makes his own way towards the exit. He glances quickly at the militia members and cammandos as he makes his way past. He frowns as he heads out to his ATV to make his way home.

Seeing as how things seemed to go "well," Gabriel just rather mulls around the edge of the room, just watching and listening because frankly there isn't much to do without turning around and going back toward the city, only to return tomorrow, apparently. It's a tough call.

"Best have that evidence, buddy boy," Vixen speaks up towards the Major. "Besides, you know. Your word. Since that's the path of circular logic and we know that never wins a discussion." Her tone sweet as honey, mingling well with the casual amusement she wears. She keeps the camera rolling smoothly to catch the last of the lingering folk.

As Daeni belatedly agrees to leave the major nods in acceptance. "Thank you miss. I'm sure you will find another venue to voice your differances. We will continue without further interuption then." He states as he returns to his table. Vixen's remark draws a smirk and a nod. "Of course. My proof is right here actually. I was reading it as you came in today. On loan from the CS repository of knowledge in Chi town, an original printing of 'War and Peace'."

As things really have finally drawn to a close, Gabriel "packs up" so to speak and makes his way out the door, stopping to hopefully address the major. "Thank you sir, this is very informative. Things I've never heard of before! I hope you come back tomorrow. You know, these people, well, gotta expect 'em, right? Thanks again." He will then move outside, rudely not waiting for a reply.

"You know what would be more convincing? Bringing one of your common folk to read it out loud," Vixen notes. "A book ain't gunna do nothing. Kingsdale's got a library with more of them than you could read in a lifetime, probably. Never stood around to count. They probably have one of that too. Not to mention all the electronic media. I really think you'll have to do better than that. I hear Lazlo has a load of books as well." Her camera points towards the man again as she resumes her casual lean. From afar, Daeni nods.

The major shrugs as the interuption has killed the mood for some of those attenting. So he turns to Vixen, who stubbornly remains and challenges. "Oh I'd never infringe on a citizens right to safety by bringing them into a situation that just happened. So you'll have to take my word that all citizens who have the assessed aptitude can and do read. It is a requirement of their profession."

Vixen smirks and tilts her head slightly. "Assessed aptitude? So you have to qualify to read? Don't make much sense to me. Seen plenty of folk that are dumb as hell who can read if someone takes a moment to show 'em. So what if someone's job doesn't require them to read? They don't get taught?"

Daniel nods to Vixen, looking to see absolutely nothing wrong with the statement. "Of course not. It is our duty to fulfill the citizen's carreer potential. Not waste it trivial extras that are not needed. A lot of credits go into educating our citizens, but none of it is wasted."

Vixen chuckles at that. "So there you have it." She looks towards anyone who is still lingering. Even if not, she has her camera. "Anything not dictated as suitable for you by the all knowing Coalition authority is a waste. LIke I said the other day.. you might be safe, but a cage is a cage. Give up your right to guide your own destiny, efficient or not or keep it. That's the choice you're given." She shakes her head and lifts a hand towards the major casually. "Thanks for the golden footage. You talk a good game, but you're not fooling anyone but the fools."

Following her departure from Laramy and the tempting targets therein, Daeni returns to more family grounds. The deluded humans are not yet leaving, and will be available again. Here, in what she considers as much her home as any other area, she can prepare for that time. A small fire served to cook a kill, and now she rests, in what little form she finds it. Even in this state, she is held in the boughs of a tree, several meters above the ground.

Unexpectly Daeni has in fact been tracked from the town of Laramy. No it would seem the major was not content with the elf's removal from the township. Rather his CS intention was always her removal from existance. So it comes to pass that an energy blast suddenly vaporizes the branch beside Daeni's head.

Daeni is primed to expect and anticipate danger, primarily due to the excess of adrenaline circulating through her system. This time, however, it is not until after the flash of light and heat that she becomes aware of it. Very much in reflex, the elven huntress leaves the branches to drop for the ground in a crouch and seek her assailant. Even as she does this, swords are drawn.

The attacker is spotted concealed behind cover of a tree over half a mile distant. A laser dot moves to mark on Daeni's forhead and immedialye after a pulse of laser fire is sent to that point.

The moment she spies the shooter, Daeni is off at a rapid pace to close upon them, whomever the individual might be. Her direct path makes it all the more easy for the subsequent blast, and it very nearly catches her between the eyes. Nearly. With senses and nerves on raw edge, her head twitches to the side in a feat of movement that is fortune, even for her own standards. Strands of hair are scorched or vaporized, yet still she moves.

Of course if the Major had known exactly how hard Daeni is to assisinate he would have sent more men.. The man tasked with the unfortunate job is brave enough though. He holds his ground to get as many shots as he can in. Only one hits the elf and doesnt even phase her pursuit. With her close enough to hurt him he starts backing away from his clustering concealment.

"Coward! Stand, fight!" Daeni does not expect him to, yet it would offer some sliver of improvement in her dim view of the Coalition. It does not, however, prevent her from leaping to strike at him from behind. Now, the reflexes that left her with only a single blasted patch of clothing and singed skin beneath are witheld, as she strikes but once. A quick death would be too merciful, and deny her some entertainment.

The leap over the Coalition Ranger was certainly impressive. The sword attack on the nearby dirt, not so much. The grin of the ranger is apparent despite the armor as her fires a burst on Daeni before using his jetpack to keep the distance between them. Another burst comes with his lift off.

Daeni growls as a blade is lost for the fight, but she cannot be concerned with it just yet. One pulse from her foe burns away more clothing and layers of skin, yet that is not what pains her, but the man's cowardice. Perhaps it is not a night for blades, anyhow, and she sheathes the one still held in order to ready her bow. He is not the only one who can fire from a distance, and she takes her time to aim.

The Coalition loves their tech. They have a gadget for almost every situation, and fire power for whats left over. The fire power of choice in this case is two grenades pulled and thrown at Daeni in smooth singular actions.

The falling explosives are enough to cause Daeni to dive to the side, although her landing is not a sprawl. She tucks, rolls and rights herself so that she can quickly focus her aim upon the flying one once more. Or, more specifically, the device that is flying, to which he is attached. This time, she looses.

As the ranger gains altitude further grenade attacks lose their appeal and the rifle is used again. This is as Daeni's very powerful arrows try to bring him down to earth. Well, powerful by arrow standards anyway.

Daeni does not wait for results, instead loosing upon the same target. She repeats this again, delivering a pair of arrows that are well-aimed despite the rapidity of their launch.

Terrible timing for the ranger's weapon to short, just before his pack takes him out of range of the arrows being fired at him. He hurriedly changes clips while trying to evade futher shots, and does poorly. But when all is fixed he hovers above the arrows range and levels the reloaded rifle at Daeni below.

Daeni is not nearly as adept at judging distance or the soldier's actions from directly above. Her turn and twist for cover is ill-timed, and costs her more clothing and skin. Daeni is getting low on both, even if the pain is mostly a vague notion, care of her revealed, scaled collar and cuffs. Now it is time for her to seek some cover, if just to bide time.

With cover taken the ranger must take extra care to hit Daeni. As such the laser of the sight searches for Daeni's head again as the jetpack holds him out of reach.

The mask that was unseen, irremovable, and nearly forgotten is now only apparent by its disintegration. Daeni's only concern for it is that it did serve to lengthen the conflict. She could choose to hide, cower, or otherwise tuck tail and run, but she is not one to do so. Instead, she rolls to her back and nocks yet another arrow. The difference is that her draw is increased nearly to the point of the arrowhead off the riser or irrevocable damage to the same.

The ranger is certainly impressed with Daeni's resilience and persitance. He had expected this to trun into a chase much earlier. This does not give him any pause though. Who is he to argue if his quary wishes to make it easier. After all he is sure in reversed positions the prey would feel the same. Another shot is aimed, resilience cant last forever.

Daeni's explicative may be loud enough for the hovering ranger to hear, although the elven would likely render the precise meaning unintelligible. This leaves her exposed for the return fire, which hits her center of mass, yet is uncharacteristically diminished by the components of her harness? She continues to draw breath, regardless of the cause, and now rolls to regain her footing. Without even a remote means of retaliation, she now moves more carefully, ducking and darting amidst the trees. They will not stop the ranger's fire, but they can stop his sight.

And then his quarry is quite expertly gone. From his sights anyway. The ranger remains still for a moment, pulling out something technicle which he examines. As Daeni moves, he follows, apparently able to track her without directly seeing her.

She is tenacious, resilient, and also inobvious when she chooses to be. Unfortunately, Daeni is not technically savvy, or might know of such things, if not to suspect the same. Her path takes her to reclaim her other blade, then generally south, from what the limited ground she can cover at this pace indicates.

For nearly fiteen minutes the Ranger hounds Daeni without mercy. His rifle firing at her whenever her escape took her away from cover and back into his field of view. Which was not very often, as she was quite proficient and staying hidden. During that time he only go one shot to hit her.. Not a good tactic for conservation of ammo, especially considering he had gone through 3 clips in this hunt. Finally as Kingsdale nears and outside interfearance becomes much more likely, not to mention his flight's time limit, he calls off the pursuit as she eludes him again. His armor carrying him east towards Whykin.

Daeni may frustrate the ranger with her evasion of sight and fire, but she is no less annoyed. While her body welcomes the reprieve as an opportunity to mend itself, any skulking about should be done with herself as hunter, not the prey. Even the departure of her would-be assassin is a mixed blessing, as she lacks the means to immediately reverse their roles. When next they meet, however, Daeni expects that she shall not be the prey.

Day 3:

Celaeno meanders her way to the recruitment drive, twirling the start-plug of her hovercycle on her finger before sliding it into her belt. Dressed in a light-suit of NG-A8, her helmet's detached in the entranceway before she grunts and leaves the last of her weaponry (one vibro-sword) at the entrance, before moving directly to the refreshments.

There are worse places to be, but one might be hard-pressed to name them. Under the cold yellow sun a small flurry of snow falls about to melt on the earth below, and heavy clothing is the order of the day. The protests have started, though the mood outside is one of bitter determination compared to the more jovial warmth inside. Ahriman stops at the door, pulling free the simple black glass knife at his belt to hand to the city militia, smirking. "But I do not intend to protest," his voice rumbles, glancing back at the line. "Quite the contrary, I assure you." He just smiles in that pupilless way at the guards before turning to walk towards the town hall, seeking entry.

Wearing that strangely-spattered camouflage armor, Gabriel emerges from the treeline, his helmet hooked at his waist, and two rifles over his shoulder. The man's actually whistling as he goes through processing, checking all of his weapons exactly as he's told to do, with no attempt at deception. Just takes his chit, smiles pleasantly at the CS commandos, and follows in a very large, very strange dark figure. He only refills his canteen at the refreshments before moving off to one of the most distant chairs from the podium, glancing at the dark figure.

The commandos at the door will hesitate as Ahriman seeks entrance. Barring the door and looking uncertain for a moment. "If he is unarmed let him in." An authoritive voice orders and the commandos move aside provided the alien is indeed unarmed. In side the authoritive voice belongs to Major Daniel Carter, who looks to be the speaker for the rally. There he waits ready to give his thrid and final presentation for the rally. The room is sparsely populated with those of interest.

With her free food and drink in hand, Celaeno shifts to seat herself in the back row, a frown crossing her face as she makes note of Ahriman's entrance. The frown disappears after just a moment, though, and she turns toward the front, shifting into a position much reminiscent of a bored high school student.

The black being just smirks at the pair, though as he enters the building a certain tenseness leaves him. Something subtle, that's difficult to place but easily noticed. He's more comfortable now than moments ago under the sun. Ahriman turns silvered eyes at the Major, uttering a bass, "Thank you. I do not believe I have had the pleasure. I am called Ahriman." Stepping towards the silver-haired man, Ahriman extends a black-gloved hand to shake. He seems to find this whole ordeal great entertainment.

Sure, you can't help but notice when armed guards block the path of an alien, or whatever it is properly called, but Gabriel seems to retain only a simple eye on the brief event before settling into one of the chairs in the furthest back row. His feet push off the ground, and the chair rises on its back legs. He seems to chat up the people around him a bit, but mainly appears to be your average slightly-interested Joe. But anyone who might have been really paying attention would definitely have seen his face twitch a bit at the mention, and identification of Ahriman. Otherwise, he just waits for the major to get on with things.

The major naods in acknowledgement of Ahriman but does not shake hands. "You're welcome, take a seat." He states flatly before beginning his presentation. "How to join us, how not to offend us. Thats What Emporer Prosek wants tabled in thse far reaches of recruiting. The easiest way for a human and his or her family to join is to enroll in the military. Doing so puts ones family next inline for resettlement in a Coalition city. The more members and more skilled, the closer you get."

Celaeno watches as the Major launches into his prepared remarks, her attention flickering from his face to those of her fellow participants. Her expression slides toward one of amusement as the talk of relocation and families, though she keeps a lid on it.

Ahriman turns his hand to the right, chuckling softly to himself. He lets it fall and turns then, reaching into his suit jacket to draw free a notepad and pen before scribbling some careful notes. His gaze falls on Celaeno as he does, walking slowly towards the back of the room, and his lips twitch before he turns to watch the speaker more closely. Ever attentive, curious. A hand is raised. Gabriel calls out in a very honest voice, as it's a very honest question, "what do you mean by 'more members the closer you get.'? I'm really sorry to interrupt like this, I just want to understand. Sorry." His tone is once again masked of his normal drawl. Ahriman continues to be noted, though in a way that it's unlikely to be noted itself. That is, no noticing of the noticing, which becomes a circular argument.

"If unable or uninterested in Military enrolement entrance is a long process of several years, but again the more skilled and beneficial to society the better your chances." The major continues before regarding the talketive Gabriel once more. "If one member of a family enlists in the Coalition Military the wait is up to two years. If two enlist the wait will be less than a year. Three inlistments is immediate rolocation upon successful graduation of basic training." He answers clearly.

Celaeno turns to peer at Gabriel for a moment, one eyebrow lifting as she looks. So far as Ahriman's presence, though, she seems quite content to keep him just out of her periphery before ultimately turning back to the speaker.

"It is a sensible precaution," Ahriman speaks out of turn from the back of the room. He continues to write notes as he speaks, words hitting paper undoubtedly not the same as those that slip from his lips. "You may be only self-motivated, or may not live long in their care. They recruit for war, and the front is perilous. The more brothers and sisters you give to their cause, better they are assured your family's care will be paid for."

"Thank you! I won't interrupt again." Gabriel allows his chair to clunk flat to the floor, and bends his head slightly in a show of embarrassment at having been singled out. Ahriman's words are noted only by an enthusiastic nod. Whether agreement, or simple acknowledgement is up for grabs. Other than that, the man from the past does what he promised, and keeps his mouth shut.

"Of course not everyone is interested in the Coalition and the safety and opportunities it offers. We understand that and want to avoid conflict whenver possible. To that end I have it from the Emporer himself that if alien trespassers and those who choose to practice magic do so outside of our states and show no aggression towards us we will leave them be until we are ready to consider peaceful negotiations and integration of the new cultures. This could take some time as some races will not comply with that and must be handled first. But I think its only logical that consideration and respect in regards to our borders is quite reasonable." Daniel explains thouroughly, looking through the crowd for understanding.

Celaeno just grins at the Major, one hand idly shifting to her belt to pull out a cigarette and a lighter. A quick flick, and a puff and the lighter's returned, before she asks, in her best Quebecois accent, "What about all the fighting over in Quebec, eh? Don't rightly understand that one."

Ahriman continues writing notes, pausing a moment at that last note of peace. He draws a small shape on the pad, adding to Celaeno's question, "You currently claim all of the State of Missouri as your territory, yes? With a base in old St Louis and Whykin as footholds?" He looks up, wondering aloud, "Does this mean that presence in Laramy would be unacceptable to you? In Kingsdale?"

Gabriel's eyes do wander over to the unusual voice that mentions Quebec. Celaeno is noted, but only as someone who's there, not as someone who spoke. The dark creature's words also pass over him. But as promised, he says nothing. You sit here and say nothing, because you eat here and pay nothing. Plus, others are asking good questions anyone. He just drums fingers idly on thigh.

The major looks to Celaeno with mild speculation. "Not sure I do either. From what I gather the Quebec Leadership has taken leave of its senses and defied the rest of the Coalition. Quebec's coalition citizens are there by hostage to the rogue government. That violates their right to safety so naturally we aim to free them from the oppresion." he explains before looking to Ahriman. "Yes the Coalition State of Missouri encompasses all the territories you mentioned. All aliens and practitioners of magic in the state are currently trespassing. I dont know when our leadership intend to rectify this, but it would be advisable for those types to relocate before that decision is passed."

Celaeno just shakes her head, leaning back in her chair once more as she alternates between cigarette and punch.

"Then why recruit here?" Ahriman wonders aloud. "Can you not simply draft from your own territory? Or, perhaps you recognize the sovereignty of Laramy within the borders of your Coalition States?" Ahriman smirks at the Major, his tone playful. He shrugs, laying out his proposition as easily as dealing a hand of cards. "We are in a 'possession is nine-tenths of the law' situation, I think."

With eyebrows bumping a little, Gabriel allows himself to barely tip his chair back on its hind feet, very satisfied that in the past three days, he's learned immense amounts of information about the Coalition States that he didn't know before. Even if much of it is taken right out of Joseph Goebbel's playbook, there are still many nuggets to be gleaned, and other information that is obvious to someone who has already lived through these unfortunate events, even if they were in earlier times. Ahriman asks a good question, to which Gabriel bobs his head once in the major's direction.

"Because the Coalition does not practice a draft when it comes to military recruiting. We do not force anyone to fight our battles. Rather we appeal to the good and zeal inherent in all humans to fight for what is right. To free their homes of alien invaders and inhuman practices. That and the family benefits of enlisting provide a far more efficient military than a draft could." Daniel explains cassually before waiting to see if there will be any further questions.

Celaeno takes a slow drag on the cigarette, expression shifting back to the mildly disinterested.

The black creature just smirks, considering his words as he eyes the Major. "You fight for survival," he utters softly, nodding. "Say that. The preservation of humanity under a tide of the alien. Your species is on the run. Integration is fine, but in Kingsdale the birthrate of humans is ... cataclysmic. Every pairing of human and alien results in a childless home, or a home in which adoption is pursued. You come to preserve your way of life, not because you hate but because it is the nature of all animals to look after their own."

Gabriel only raises his voice enough to quickly say, "The major mentioned that yesterday, sir. This planet is the natural home to humans, not home to aliens. That's why they're called aliens." The man's focus remains on Major Carter, though, even as he speaks. The tone of his voice is noncommittal. Just statement of fact.

The major nods, looking to agree. Although he seems to gap on the mention human inhuman pairing. "Indeed, a fight we intend to win. Any further questions?" He then asks, starting to close up his things.

Celaeno chimes up, maintaining her accent, "I'm looking into this for my company," she opens, "And a few of 'em have some special gifts," she taps the side of her head for emphasis, "but aren't 'xactly registered up with you people. What sort've jobs you got for them? What's the pay like? Sorry to say most of them don't quite have families, yeah?"

Ahriman stays silent a moment, glancing Celaeno's way as he listens to that question.

Gabriel simply shakes his head at the fact that everyone else always seems to be more interesting.

Daniel smiles at Celaeno, liking the new tack. "Psychics arein hight demand for both militarty and security applications. Pay depends on aptitude, and can be quite comfortable. ID tagging is mandatory but merely ensures you are doing what you are paid to do and not violating the rights of normal humans." The major explains calmly, all his materials ready to go.

Celaeno just nods, shrugging as she rises to her feet, the major festivities apparently being over. Reseating her helmet, she turns around, head cocking slightly at Ahriman for a few moments, before giving an extended yawn behind the faceplate.

Ahriman straightens then, grinning at the Major. He stares at the envoy for some long moments, and glances outside before walking in that direction. "And the inhuman residents of Laramy?" he wonders as he comes to the door. "By when can I tell them they are meant to be gone from this state? With human families shuffled back to Illinois and aliens pressed West, I wonder if there will be anyone left in Missouri?"

Gabriel shrugs a little, not quite yet ready to leave his chair. Giving the major his proper respect to leave the room first. But he blurts simply: "Humans?"

"I dont have a specific date. Likely three to four years before our heads of state return their attention here." Daniel answers in a noncommital town before Making a nod to all gathered. "Thank you all for your time. I will be talking to the officials in Kingsdale about doing another rally there in a few months." With that him and his commandos exit to board a CS officers car, fully armed for the trip back to Whykin.

Mid afternoon of a cold winter day on the road outside of Laramy a Coaltion officer's car hovers along at a good clip to take the major and his entourage back to the embassy in Whykin.

Somewhere behind them a truck rumbles along at a much lower speed. Ahriman isn't returning directly to Kingsdale, it seems. He downshifts and clears a fallen log, easing over it before climbing back to thirty miles an hour while watching what could laughably be called a road.

As this is the wilderness, Gabriel has clasped all of his armor against his body, nice and close, sealed shut. The oddly spattered camouflage, obviously a custom job, does a fairly good job of making him appear and disappear as he marches along the side of the road, right up against the trees. Sure, it's a long walk back to the city, but it's healthy for you. Keeps a man fit. He wears two rifles over his shoulder, a somewhat battered L-20, and a hunting rifle of unusual design.

Celaeno wasn't in too much of a hurry to get out of Laramy, and even now her hovercycle isn't in any particular rush to return to Kingsdale - puttering along at a much slower rate a bit over a hundred feet in the air. Every now and again she does a wide loop before returning to her course.

The entourage is under observation, and may soon acquire an additional escort. From a comfortable perch in the trees along the trail, Daeni awaits the arrival of the major and his band of cowardly assassins. She, too, is capable of mounting an ambush, yet she is much more inclined to do so in a close and personal fashion, not from afar. It is merely a matter of muscle and gravity to deliver her to the hovering vehicle when the time is at hand. Perhaps the officer would prefer a convertible?

With a solid thud Daeni lands on the roof of the officers car and the vehicle swerves to shake off the unwanted passenger. For the moment it continues, the soldiers inside apparetnly uncertain about what is now with them.

Daeni would neither want to lose her balance, nor keep those inside the vehicle in the dark for long. To assist with both matters, she makes use of her favorite, general-purpose tools. Driving a pair of blades downward at the roof might give her some anchor to the vehicle. Doing so in the vicinity of the driver, or her best estimate, might also clarify the purpose of her visit.

The blades slide through the roof of the car smoothly and it swerves with much clearer agitation. It comes to an abrupt stop as the doors open and the special forces commandos fly out to engage the threat with the help of their jetpacks. Both wield CP 50 rifles.

"Ah, Cel?" Gabriel's suit speakers crackle open. "You're the driver, but sounds like that should generally be avoided unless you're doing something on purpose."

After her last encounter with flying, cowardly assassins, the emerging commandos are her priority. Blades are pulled from the car below so that she can bring them upon those with jet packs before they can get far. Her position on the roof conveniently places her between them, but she focuses upon the one to the right of the vehicle, first.

The truck emerges from a stand of trees a hundred meters away, rolling to a halt there as Ahriman takes in the scene. A spinning, damaged hovercar, jetpack men blasting free like reactive armor, and a pissed off and off-balance elf stabbing at things with her swords. He blinks a moment, before falling from the cab to slip into the trees.

As one blade severly scars the one CS commando both move out of reach of the deadly implements as the fire without hesitation on the attacking Daeni.

Celaeno's gaze flits between the hubbub with the jetpacks in the distance and the truck below, considering things for a few moments. She doesn't seem in any particular rush to fly off and join in any shenanigans at the moment, but she does suddenly rear back on the 'cycle. She glances over her shoulder at Gabriel, grunting at him while one hand reaches back and around to free up her rifle, and the other lifts to the radio controls for her helmet. "Coalition soldiers, what seems to be the nature of the conflict? Do you require assistance?" With neither hand at the handlebars, her shifted weight leans the 'cycle slightly, causing it to start sliding sideways in the air.

Okay, now Gabriel has really missed things. It was definitely a large flying thing, but an insect, not a giant bird. His head is ducked beneath Celaeno's back in order to dodge it, thus all that he knows is what his driver says, and then, only what he can hear over the wind's noise.

"We are under attack from a supernatural assailant. Assistance would be welcome but is not particularly necessary." The Officers car replies to Celaeno. Its holding still. Apparently content to let the commandos deal with the hitchhiker.

Daeni's focus shifts as the soldiers fly out of immediate reach. She intended that at least one would land, and in several sections, but it is not to be. There remains the officer within, however, and she exchanges the view above for the interior. It may also give her momentary cover from the gnats above. The shadows off to the side of the road darken just slightly, leaves turning here and there quietly as a figure moves through the brush. To those sensitive there would be a small flash of magic, then nothing.

As Daeni resumes her efforts to gain entrance to the inside of the car the commandos continue to fire upon her. Her luck cant hold out forever.

"Will stand by and await a request," Celaeno says, bringing her scoped rifle around to get a better view, stabilizing the 'cycle as she so does, though as the laser-sight settles on Daeni she scowls with a vocal, "Oh, for fuck's sake..." she mutters, dropping the 'cycle suddenly into freefall until it comes within the tree-line, hitting the hover-jets to sidle closer to one of the trees so as to minimize exposure.

Gabriel finally manages to grab a view over Cel's shoulder, his internal optics also zooming in to the distant Daeni. His head shakes side to side, but if he says anything, it's left within his helmet. However, his energy rifle is swung from his back and into his hands, a thumb switching the safety off, and his feet ready to leap off of the cycle, assuming the damn thing comes to a stop low enough.

Yes sure, make it so the people inside the car can shoot at you too. They wont mind. Or so it seams as the Major and driver shoot at Daeni.

Contrary to some expectations, and her initial instincts, Daeni attends first to the driver. There is less room to swing, even with the roof open, yet stabbing blows work just as well. Should he be obedient enough to die quickly, she may spare the major a moment of her time.

The branches continue to rustle beside the road. Getting closer though, and the disturbance slows. The shadows seem just a touch deeper there, though in the blustery, snowy cloud-speckled way the day is who could tell?

As the driver is skewered the tactics of the commandos change. Both move to take hold of Daeni and pull her off the vehicle. Enough is enough.

As Daeni continues her struggle with the Coalition, Celaeno glances down at the truck, grunting as she moves out of the trees to set down right near it, leaping to the storage compartment her 'cycle. Grabbing a walkie-talkie, she seems to ignore Gabriel, prying it open and beginning to fiddle with the inner workings of it.

As soon as the hovercycle is low enough to jump without harm, so probably about ten feet for a good soldier, Gabriel does exactly that, then bolts for the treeline. But over his helmet's radio is broadcast directionally toward Celaeno: "I don't know who to stop. The CS bastards who at this point are going to roll in the armor, or Daeni, to try to stop her from killing the CS bastards to give them less of an excuse to roll in the armor." In any case, he does manage to find a tree to dive behind, and slaps the bottom of his L-20's magazine, ready for combat.

With Daeni carted of Daniel Carter shoves the drivers corpse out the door before taking his place and lifting the officer car up to 100 feet from the ground.

Celaeno just grunts at Gabriel's assessment, "Don't know what to tell you," she says, growling as the walkie-talkie shorts itself out, and she redoubles her efforts to get it working how she would like. "Do what you want, but if you get me shot at, you're walking back." She seems engrossed in her own little world of fiddling.

Gabriel grunts inside his helmet, "Bastards are going to be coming now anyway. Stupid elven bitch." It is with great regret and a heavy heart that he lines up on whichever commando, if any, has at this point already been attacked. If none remaining, whoever's back is turned to him. The trigger is pulled.

The shadows are quiet and still now, trees having ceased rustling. A leafless birch casts a shadow thicker than it ought to, as if it had leaves, blanketing a section of earth below in cool shade. Frost sticks there, errant snowflakes catching as the earth below falls below freezing for want of sunlight. Daeni might feel a touch of something, a creeping insidious fogginess that invades her thinking, something laced with magic.

The CS commando holding Daeni drops her as soon as the car is out of harms way, immediately turning his rifle on her after that. The other commando turns as he is fired upon by someone else and returns fire.

The Cs Car, now under control of the major turns on the one that made it a convertable. Two of its laser cannons fire at her simultaneously.

Daeni meets the ground after her drop in a landing crouch. "Cowards! Always run, fly!" She straightens and sheathes swords to draw her bow and loose upon the damaged commando.

Seated with her back against the hovercycle, Celaeno continues fiddling with the walkie-talkie in her hands, grumbling slightly at the weapons fire around. "Tell me if things go wonky, and don't get yourself killed, because then you're of no use to me," she mutters over the radio to Gabriel.

"I'm happy to be of use, but getting killed is the foremost thing on my mind at the moment." Gabriel states over the comm. Of course, it's not slick and rolled out in a full sentence, but rather grunted as he moves around behind his chosen tree. The L-20 comes up again as he leans out, and targets again whichever guy is already smoking the most, otherwise, whoever just shot at him. Shooting a trained soldiers tends to piss them off. On the other hand, shooting at the other guy in the first place tends to draw fire.

Ahriman is patient. He's watching from a comparitively short distance, from the trees, thoroughly invisible to the naked or even the augmented eye. He murmurs a few more words, silvered eyes narrowing as he peers at Daeni, gesturing faintly as he tries once more to loose those foggy tendrils into Deni's skull, to pad her thoughts with soft wool.

And with the one commando starting to look really beat up he falls back to the hovering car, maintining fire on Gabriel in the process. The other keeps on Daeni, as does the major.

Perhaps it was the energy she caught with her body, or the swirling flyers above, or perhaps even more cowards hiding in the shadows. Whatever the reason, Daeni swoons and wobbles, blinking through hazed vision. This slows her markedly, but does not halt her. She nocks and looses another shot upon the one collecting arrows.

Feeling that at least there is a chance, the tiniest bit of hope of surviving this mess, Gabriel aims at the smoking commando, the one who at the moment is firing back. The trigger is pulled in quick succession at the smoking man. Sure, it's probably overkill, but it's better to be repremanded now for doing too much than it is failing to accomplish something because you did too little. Two separate pulses fire at the smoking commando.

The tides have turned. Ahriman glances up, then aside at Daeni again, and turns to jog back towards his truck. He slips from a brush to a tree, an alder to an oak, keeping to the sparse shadows and extending their clawing reach as he must to preserve his cover. If everyone weren't so focused on people shooting at them, it would look rather peculiar.

One commando is down, falling to the ground in a smoking heap. The other seeing this turns his attention on Gabriel and first the grenade launcher portion of the cp50 at him. Meanwhile the Car continues to try and shoot Daeni.

Daeni screams out a curt explicative whose general nature is apparent, regardless of whether the listener is fluent in elven. The temporarily useless bow is dropped and she angrily moves to grab for the first weapon of convenience she can locat. This happens to be the fallen commando who had his armor and/or propulsion shot out from under him. If he cooperates, he will get the chance to fly once more.

Well, getting shot at with grenades certainly won't do. That sucked. Gabriel takes the time to attempt to at least somehow remedy the situation. His thumb-selector flicks over to single-shot mode, the muzzle is raised, and his optics sight in on the commando very carefully. Not a body shot, but right over his hand and trigger assembly, hoping to dislodge the weapon from his grasp. Pull.

The one commando can see he's not going to survive Daeni, so grabbing one of his grenades he pulls the pin and tries to tackle her. The other commando continues to shoot grenades at Gabriel as the man takes his time with his next shot. A shot he will forfeit if he dodges. The Officer car shoots at Daeni as well.

That rapscallion continues his retreat, running for his truck. His eyes glance up, furtively, as the car makes another pass, and he purses his lips as he eyes Gabriel. The eyes narrow at the man's closeness to his vehicle, and Ahriman turns to intead plunge into the wilderness, angled towards the nearest ley line.

A coalition soldier with nothing left to lose is a dangerous thing. Such a soldier with his standard 4 grenades even more so. The unarmored soldier tackles Daeni, barely latching on as he pulls the pin from one of those grenades. The resulting explosion does not leave much left of either of them. With that threat disposed of the Officer car moves to clean up, unleshing a missile salvo at the truck on the battlefield.

It was a close thing before. But at least it had still been a minor ambush, if ill-advised. The woman (or whatever the proper term would be) to whose rescue he was attempting to come is now down. With no further focus for what are essentially tank cannons, Gabriel does the intelligent thing. He dips into the treeline and runs like hell, looking backwards only frequently enough to make sure that he's going to take one in the back and not even see it coming. Thankfully, running is one thing that he does actually do very well. He runs straight toward the area where he was dropped off, Celaeno's position, calling her over the radio.

With many things now smouldering the Coalition consider the field. The commando switches back to lasers as his target flees into the trees but does not pursue him. Two of their own down outisde of their lines. One major threat dealt with. Perhaps time to call it a day.

As the truck explodes, Celaeno swears to herself, the walkie-talkie sliding into her utility belt as she swings herself once again onto her 'cycle, jetting suddenly into the air with two quickfire radio messages, the first to the approaching tatters that are Gabriel, "I suggest you get yourself behind cover," she growls before popping over to the general station, "Good show, Dead Boys," she says, "Entertaining. Just the one left, hey? Going to chase him down?" She appears to be attempting to maneuver herself over the convertible car, doing a little corkscrew in an attempt to get a look at the driver.

"Nah we vanquished the real threat. This isn't our duristiction. And we're not equiped for a purge. Until then." The major bids back over the radio as he moves the car to pick up the remaining commando. Of course then he finds himself unable to move and things get very tense.

Celaeno calls over the radio as the Major finds himself sudden lock-jawed. She swings back around, pausing a beat before calling, "Sounds like a plan, mind if I take him out, then? Might be some money in his gear." She circles above, keeping an eye on any response from the commando.

Clearly, neither the exploding truck nor the hover-thingy can pass unnoticed. Under other conditions, it might be advisable to dive into the bushes during the odd commotion and hope for some cover, but as the trees here barely even qualify as a forest, running seems to be more feasible - until the car seems to turn around and run from the hover-thingy. And then stops. Which seems like a very bad thing. Torn between duty, honor toward women, and the very necessary survival instinct that keeps all soldiers alive... Gabriel slides into whatever bushes do happen to be near the closest tree, just to watch what the hell is going on.

Coalition troops do get comprehensive training in unusual behavior among their own. Sudden silence, delayed raction, breach of protocol. Of course findoning oneself completly unable to move is also a good indicator.

The people of this world never cease to amaze Gabriel. Obviously, despite his earlier portrayal that humans owned this planet, they don't. Frankly, it may not even be the same planet, with all of the dimensional vortexer-booberopity that goes on. Things that he's only now beginning to understand. With his armor smoking, possibly even said that it was beginning to hang off of him like shingles on a blown roof, the Marine Colonel simply does his best to stay hidden behind bush and tree. The L-20 is up and ready to shoot, but the finger is far from the trigger, and the safety on, to boot. For now, its the optics that are important as he stays out of the psychic's way.

Celaeno spirals her 'cycle to the ground, tsking quietly to herself as she approaches the commando first, shaking her head. "What seems to be the matter?" she asks him, her sword flashing out for a quick coup de grace - something at least painless - before then moving to the Major. "Sorry about this," she says, by means of explanation, "But by blowing that truck up, you made my job much, much harder." She sighs, "It's not personal though, really. Maybe one of these days I'll join you boys in black. You know, when things get really bad."

Celaeno shakes her head again, glancing over to the smoking crater where Daeni's remains might have been, and with a vocal sigh she turns back to the Major. "Really, you seemed like you might've been a decent bastard," and the sword begins cutting into the soft neck of his armour, at an angle so that when it finally pops through it'll sever the brainstem. She wipes off her sword, moving to call back over the radio. "You might want to swap armour with one of these guys. We're going to gather what we can, pile the bodies into their car, and toss in enough grenades to take care of the rest of the evidence for us."

Shot up, but not shot down, Gabriel knows how to take advantage of a situation, especially when one is handed to him like this. He gets to his feet and charges the downed car and people and whatever the hell has happened to them, other than the obvious "beheading' thing. "Hey, thanks, Cel," comes across the directional band radio. "I was already halfway through prayers, down to 'I will fear no evil: for thou art with me." As he approaches the strange scene of what is controlled carnage, he surveys the battlefield."

Celaeno looks flatly at Gabriel, her normal mirth gone as she replies, "Yeah. I guess. Once we get back, you don't talk about this to anybody. Nobody sees the armour, you want any of the weapons or the other stuff, you can have it. I'll sell off anything you don't want - and you don't want anything that can tie you to this - and get back to you. Understand? This didn't happen." She waits for an answer before moving to gather the rifles, moving half of the grenades to the hovercar and pocketing the rest. The armour's stripped off, and everything that will fit is shifted to be stored in her 'cycle's storage compartments, body armour first.

Gabriel holds up his hands in surrender before beginning to scour the battlefield for trophies, particularly the useful ones. "Cel, I haven't survived in this business by not knowing when to keep my mouth shot. People in the city are going to ask questions about Miss Daeni's disappearance," he points out nodding to the smoking crater that had been his first real friend in the city. For now, his eyes are cold though, remaining on the path of survival. Mourning will come later. "The first rule of special operations is to not be there in the first place, if you get my meaning." The Marine Colonel then grabs two of the C-50s to sling over his back, and as many remaining eclips and grenade clips (eclips over grenade clips, if a choice needs to be made) as he can fit in his pack, which, considering he'd brought his field gear to Laramy with him, should be a good amount. He points at the armor. "Hey, Cel! What do you think, ah..." Gabriel's voice trails off and he kicks the armor over. "I don't want to be mistaken for a Coalition soldier around Kingsdale, no matter how good the stuff is." He waves to Celaeno. "Unless you have objections, I think it's time to burn it."

Celaeno just shrugs at Gabriel's hesitancy, having preference for the body armour and rifles - if only to sell it later, before piling the bodies into the hovercycle with a few grenades. Before taking to her 'cycle, she takes a few minutes to start peering around for tracks toward the periphery, difficult though it may be with the fighting. "Yeah, yeah," she says, "get on the 'cycle, gimme a minute and we'll blow it."

Gabriel nods, reseating his pilfered rifles and whatever clips he managed to scrounge. The rest is unimportant. Still, he walks over to the Daeni-crater and bows his head. Broadcast over just the local radio band is, "God of power and mercy, you have made death itself the gateway to eternal life. Look with love on our dying sister, and make her one with Your Son in His suffering and death, that, sealed with the blood of Christ, she may come before you free from sin. Amen." His head remains down for a moment more, then he is back to business and serious as hell. "I'll stay over here. Blow the shit of it, Cel." He then does exactly that - moves out of the way, still jiggling his rifles the the clips in his pack. The thumbs-up is given, as if it were necessary.

Celaeno scowls to herself behind her faceplate as she returns to her 'cycle, starting it up and moving to hover over the open chassis, pulling the pin on a lone grenade and dropping it in with all the others before moving to spin off into the sky, and away. One pop turns into two-five-six in an instant, and then the plasma mini-missiles go, sending the whole 'cycle up in an inferno of hellfire. A few lazy loops are taken around it before she moves to pick up Gabriel for the uncomfortable trip back to Kingsdale.