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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 24, 2018 23:17:27 GMT -5
“Have another on me!” A man chuckled as he slid a glass of bubbling liquid across the sleek metal bar top. He had a clean cut look about him. He wore a white t-shirt with jeans. “What do you think we will find out there tomorrow?” He asked and leaned forward, wiping a bit of water from the countertop.
A woman sat across from him at the bar she was young, she had ocean blue eyes and a unique tone of ashen hair. She looked up to him, her fingers curled around the glass, “I’m not sure. All the videos say destruction...do you think everything was really destroyed?” She looked up to him curiously.
“It’s hard to say, it’s been 50 years since the blasts went off...such a horrible war...” He shook his head and slid a drink to another patron. “To think that we turned to that...” He shook his head. His eyes lifted to an older man as he approached. “Master Ruger.” He bowed his head. “It is good to see you sir.”
The woman turned slightly in her seat, though she didn’t speak. The man looked to her, his hair was grey, his eyes tired. “Jules.” He spoke and nodded, “You’ve missed your treatment again.”
The woman took in a breath and looked up at the clock on the wall. “Oh? It is that time isn’t it?” She bit her lip as her eyes fell upon the frustrated man.
“Get down to medical or I’ll have you locked up for breaking the laws, Jules. I’ve been giving you slack with the death of your mother and father, but I can’t continue to do this.” He narrowed his brows. “What will you do when you leave here? Hm? Without the treatments you could die.”
Jules let out a long breath as she watched the old man turn and walk away. She took a drink from her glass before her eyes turned to the barkeep. “What Nicolas?” She asked with a raised brow.
“Do you really want to die when we leave? It’s tomorrow...if you don’t get your treatments on schedule...” He lowered his eyes, “Master Ruger is only trying to take care of us. He was tasked with taking care of everyone in here when the vault was sealed...”
Jules finished off her glass and set it on the counter, she smirked to him, “What tells you these treatments aren’t what killed my parents? Hm?” She watched him closely a moment before she turned to walk away. She wore a pair of leggings with knee-high leather boots. She had on a blouse that buttoned and was a beautiful blue color to accent her eyes. She walked down the hallway and to a staircase that led down into the vault. There were many stories, upon each level was something different, small apartment like homes, food, recreation, classrooms. It had everything a small city needed.
50 years ago the world was at war. A bomb was created that would level everything. The history classes told the stories of the vaults that were created to preserve humans if these bombs were to be dropped. Years after the bomb was created the alarms sounded. Not everyone was allowed into these vaults, only the chosen, those picked by the government. Jules’ father was a doctor, he’d helped to create the vaccine that was given to everyone inside of the vaults to help their body become immune against the nuclear radiation from the bombs. Her mother was a tinkerer, she always had her hands on something. They were chosen by the government as worthy candidates.
Jules let out a breath as she stepped off of the staircase and walked into the medical wing. Just a few months ago her father was still alive and working, he’d give her the daily injection. “Ah Jules, good to see you dear.” A man with a bushy beard offered a smile, Jimmy, her father’s co-worker. “Come sit, I’m all ready for you.” He gave a smile and pat on a chair.
Jules sat down and closed her eyes as she felt the cuffs strap around her wrists and ankles. Jimmy tilted the chair back so that she was reclined before he pulled a bright light over her. He tightened a tourniquet around her bicep. “Give me a few squeezes dear.” He tapped her arm a few times before he began to scrub it with alcohol. He then grabbed a needle from the metal table that sat next to a machine. He pulled her skin taught and inserted the needle carefully. He allowed the hub to stay in place and he attached a line to it before he taped everything down. He then moved to her other arm and repeated the process. Jules only winced slightly when he placed the needles into her arms. “How are you doing today?” He asked as he hooked lines from a machine to her arms. “Are you excited to leave the vault?”
Jules opened her eyes and looked to the lines and then to the machine that held two bags of murky liquid. “I’m not sure what to feel, Jimmy.” She spoke softly. “What happens when we leave? What if there isn’t anything out there? And what if this injection doesn’t work?”
Jimmy offered a gentle smile and gave a squeeze to her shoulder. “It will, your father created it, he was a bright man.” He stepped to the machine then.
Jules took in a breath as she watched him flip the switch. No matter how many times she’d been through this it hurt. She winced and groaned slightly as she pushed her head against the chair. Each time she went through this process her vision would fade and she’d wake up at the end. Her father always told her it was the same for everyone. That unfortunately he couldn’t keep it from hurting....
**
“Jules, Jules wake up.” Her shoulders were shaken roughly. “Wake up!”
Jules’ eyes opened, “Nicolas?” She questioned, her head was pounding. “What?....is it?”
“Everything is a lie.” His eyes darted to the door. “You gotta get up.” He grabbed her arm and pulled her up from her bed.
“Nicolas....” Jules began to speak but he clamped his hand over her mouth and held his finger to her lips. The sound of sobbing could be heard, a scream. Jules looked to him with wide eyes.
He moved and took her hand, tugging her from her small apartment into the hallway. The lights flickered in the hallway. A blue glow ran up his arm. He looked back to her with frightened eyes as he rushed into a room. He shut the door and locked it. “They opened the doors.” He looked to Jules. “We were all going to leave...but as soon as the doors opened I heard shouting, Master Ruger....he’s planned everything...this whole time...” More of a blue glow began to cover his skin.
Jules backed up her eyes wide. “Nicolas....” Her back pressed against the wall. “What do you mean he planned everything? He’s kept us safe...”
“It’s all an experiment...” Nicolas turned just as the door was thrown open.
Soldiers stood armed with assault rifles. “Get down!” One ordered through the black mask, his eyes were covered by glowing red goggles. “I said down!” He brought the butt of his rifle to Nicolas’ side. The soldier looked to Jules then. “Down.” He aimed his rifle at her.
Jules’ breaths shook as she lowered to her knees with her hands up. “What’s happening?” She questioned her eyes frightened.
The other soldier clipped something around Nicholas’ wrist then, a metal bracelet. It began to glow and the blue glowing from his body disappeared. The first soldier stepped forward and knelt before Jules, gripped her chin and turned her face from side to side. “What’s your name?” He questioned as he grabbed her arm and clipped a similar bracelet around her wrist.
Jules took in a quick breath. She suddenly felt dizzy. She almost fell forward but the soldier held her there. “Jules.” She breathed, her chest felt heavy, though she felt like she was in the clouds.
“Perfect.” The soldier replied, “I’ve been looking for you.” He slammed his rifle against the side of her head then.
**
Vault 302, the vault that Jules grew up in. It was one of the vaults an experiment was conducted in. The injections weren’t a vaccine to protect them against the nuclear radiation from the bombs. No, the injections were much more than that. Those injected gained abilities, or magic as the Mechs called it. Mechs were the humans that ruled the world now after the wars. Though, they were the government. Jules was taken to a city called Voxstein. It was filled with others like her. Bracelets upon their wrists. The bracelet enabled the Mechs to draw the magic from them. To power the cities...to power weapons...
A schedule was created for the mages, those with the bracelets. They would report to a building that was known as the tower to donate their magic to help supply the city with power and whatever other corrupt things that the Baron wanted to use their magic for.
**
Jules sat at a table in her small apartment. It had been 5 years since she was taken by the soldiers from the vault. She had a bag of tools open on the table before her. She took in a deep breath as she set a screwdriver down on the table. She’d been trying to figure out a way to get the bracelet off of her for the past 5 years, but she was terrified of what would happen if she made a mistake. She’d seen what happened to those that pried the bracelets off, their arm would explode...she’d seen it once. A man ran out into the streets of the city cursing the Baron and cursing the one who created the damn bracelets. He took a knife and stabbed into the bracelet, killing himself...
A knock came from the door then. Jules stiffened slightly. She drew her brows together as she slowly stood. She stepped to the door and bit her lip before she opened it. “Jules.” A woman with wavy brown hair stood before her. She had a small pack on her back. “I have good news.” She smiled as she walked right in.
“Agatha.” Jules smiled she hugged her and stepped back. “Good news?” She questioned. “I haven’t seen you in months.” She chuckled, her smile fell slightly as she looked over the serious tone that overtook her friend. “What is it?” She questioned.
Agatha pulled a small leather bag from her back, “You need to take this.” She searched her eyes.
“Your bag?” Jules raised a brow. “Agatha that isn’t really...--”
“I found a way to free you from the Baron, from Foxtran Corporations, to get you out of Voxstein.” Agatha grinned then as she walked into the kitchen and poured herself a cup of coffee.
“Agatha...” Jules stared to her with wide eyes. “I...”
“Trust me.” Agatha grinned she took a sip from her coffee. “You have to see what I found, there is so much more to your magic than you realize.” She looked to her watch then, “Look, I have to go...Jules...” She looked up to her and smiled. “I’ll meet you in Aradenn.” She slipped from the home then.
Jules still held the leather bag in her hands. She drew her brows together and sighed softly. “Aradenn...” She spoke and shook her head. An alarm beeped then. Jules glanced to the clock and took in a breath. She pulled on her grey sweater and rushed into her bedroom where she stuffed the bag into her closet. She then rushed from her home. Jules stepped into the streets of Voxstein. It was a huge city with a grid like structure to it, all centered around the Baron’s tower and Foxtran corporations. The city was full of mages. The Mechs that lived here were those of high stature, it was the town to be in for the Mechs, they had every luxury they could imagine. After Jules got out of the vault she realized that others had been in the world for several years after the bombs, rebuilding...the experiment in her vault is what kept it sealed so long.
Jules walked into the building of the tower and glanced to a soldier that looked to her as she entered. He grinned, “Well, well.” He looked at the time. “Always cutting it close aren’t you?” He stepped toward her. “I can’t wait until you’re late, Brisco.” He stared to her.
Jules watched him a moment, “And if I am?” She asked before she stepped into a room. She sat down in a white chair that had straps on the arms and legs, just like the chairs in the vault. A man walked into the room shortly after she did he wore a long white lab coat. He walked over to her and strapped her into the chair before he hooked up a device to her bracelet. He walked over to the machine that sat next to the chair and turned the dial, he clicked it all the way to the right. “Hey...” Jules pulled against the straps. “What are you doing?” She questioned as she watched him flip a few more switches.
The man turned and grinned. “We have a special project for you.” He searched her eyes a moment before he flipped the switch.
Jules let out a cry as surges of power swept through her body. She whimpered as pain raced through every nerve within her body. Soon enough her vision began to swirl as time drew on. Blood began to trickle from her nose as her head lulled to the side and her eyes slipped shut. A younger scientist rushed into the room a few hours later. “You have to turn it off you’ll kill her!” He flipped the switch. Jules’ skin was pale, her breaths were shallow. “What the hell are you doing anyway?!”
The old man chuckled, “Oh, you’ll see.” He looked to Jules, “We only need a bit more.”
The younger scientist pulled the straps from Jules’ wrist. “IF you kill her there will be no more! It takes 100 mages to get the amount of magic that she has.” He growled, “Why would you risk that?” He pulled her into his arms. Jules’ eyes fluttered slightly.
The old man chuckled, “She’ll survive.” He smirked, “She’s already waking up.” He grabbed the cartridge of glowing white magic and walked from the room.
The young scientist huffed as he carried her from the tower. He crossed the town quickly as blood soaked into the front of his shirt. He slipped up the stairs into the apartment building that Jules lived in. He carefully punched in the code to her door and carried her inside. “Peter...” Jules breathed. She coughed up a bit of blood as he lay her on her bed.
“Shh, relax...” He rushed and grabbed a glass of water and brought it back. “That fucking idiot nearly killed you.” He growled. He stood and crossed his arms. “Ags spoke with you right?” He questioned. Peter was Agatha’s brother. He glanced to her with soft eyes. “You’re going to do it right?” He asked softly.
Jules groaned as she brushed blood from her nose. “Yes...” She whispered softly. “There has to be a way to end this...Ags will find...a way...”
Peter sighed softly, “Your flight leaves tonight then.” He raised a brow at her.
Jules shakily stood and stumbled, she fell into his arms before she gained her balance. She moved and pulled the bag from her closet. Jules collapsed onto the edge of her bed and opened the bag. She pulled out the ticket from the bag. “11:30...” She whispered.
**
Jules pulled on her black sweater over her blue blouse. She looked at herself in the mirror a moment before she pulled a glove from the small bag. Peter showed her how to use it. It was a gauntlet, a special kind. It concealed her bracelet. Jules clipped it on over the bracelet and a yellow glow came from it. She pulled the small backpack on and walked out of her home. Her stomach was knotted with anxiety. She glanced over her shoulder at every sound. What if this plan of Agatha’s didn’t work? What if she didn’t make it? She made her way to the airship docks. Jules bit her lip slightly and closed her eyes to calm herself. She stepped forward to the ticket master and handed her passport and ticket forward. The man looked over the forged passport that Agatha made for her. He checked over the privileges and then punched the ticket.
“Head on through, it’s the first one on the right there, the big one.” He smiled before he looked to the next in line.
Jules let out a relieved breath as she walked away from him. She glanced over her shoulder a few more times. Jules walked up the stairs to the ship, her jaw dropped slightly only for a moment before she shook it off.
“Ticket madam.” A man dressed in a full suit asked.
Jules handed her ticket forward.
“Ah yes, you will be middle deck, room 21, what a view you will have, that is such a lovely room.” He smiled, “Just down these stairs here and to the right toward the bow of the ship.”
Jules nodded and smiled, “Thank you.” She spoke as she walked forward. The main deck was beautiful. She looked around to all of the people. Everyone was dressed so nicely. She bit her lip slightly and only hoped that she fit in. She glanced down to her leather knee-high boots. She took in a breath.
“Hey there.” A man walked forward, he had a neatly kept beard. He wore a dark blue vest and black pants, a top hat upon his head. “Ahh would you look at those eyes?” He chuckled. “I must buy you a drink.” He grinned.
Jules went to object but the man towed her toward the bar and before she knew it he shoved a glass in her hands. “Um...” She looked to him as he downed his.
The man looked to her and grinned. “Not going to drink that?” He questioned and looked to the glass. He scoffed slightly. “I try to be a gentlemen and the lady refuses.” He winked to her and took the glass, downing it as well. “Come, let’s dance.” He smiled.
Jules pulled back against him. “I really don’t..” She was towed onto the dance floor and he twirled her around. She stumbled slightly to his quick movements until he pulled her close once the song came to an end. Jules looked up to him and he chuckled.
“You dance much better than most beautiful women with years of experience.” He winked to her.
“Hugo! Over here man!” A man at the bar called to him.
“Ah, until next time.” Hugo twirled Jules from his body as he walked away.
Jules stood baffled as she watched the man walk to his friend at the bar where they downed shots together. She finally broke her stare and walked to the edge of the ship to look at the city below. They were already high up in the sky by this point. She could see depressions in the land where bombs had gone off. The world was still a wasteland outside of the main cities...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 25, 2018 11:47:28 GMT -5
She was born in the vault, on it’s halfway point of age. The vault was said to open in 50 years, and the rebirth of the technology age would commence. Vault 301. This vault consisted of 4 people. The Foxtran family. However, it was not a fun family experience, no. Come year 15 of the vault trial - they received transcript from it’s sister vault - 302. This is where the birth of the ultimate mech was to rise from...
Melani Foxtran, the world did not know it yet - but she would change it, forever. With the invention of a simple bracelet. Her home was a square metal box, a hallway, and then another square metal box. She did not know the contents of the remainders of the vault. She was prisoner here. The only thing in or out was a robot, Jekyl. Jekyl brought her meals, and taught her everything she needed to know. Keyword - needed. The basis of Melani’s foundation of knowledge was strictly engineering and software development. She had zero contact with any other human life-force.
Watching through a camera - Vincent stood, staring to his daughter. She had turned 25 this day - meaning the vault was to open the following. In his hand he held the bracelet. Behind him was a huge pile of gadgets, machines, robots. Everything. Vincent had the plans to an entire robot army, heat shaking missiles that hunt via DNA, machines to cause plants to grow, machines to purify land and earth, everything Vincent would ever need to take over a world with no army. This was his ultimate plan.
Foxtran had not stood a chance next to Nolan Reamer with Reamer and Co. Prior to the nuclear expanse - Reamer owned everything. Nolan was a kind, giving - the world was ever fruitful and it was all in Nolan’s name. Foxtran tried everything to stay in business, but they could hardly keep company...
Jekyl entered the room, his body turning to the woman who sat on her bed. She looked exhausted. Her skin was pale and freckled - her hair a burning fiery red, shoulder length and tasseled. “Melani” The robot spoke to her and then he stepped aside. The door opened. “Today is the day you are free. The wait is over, vault 301 is to be opened” he held his hands out towards the door.
Melani stood, her blue jumpsuit painted on her body. She looked to the open door and then glanced back to the Jekyl. “Really?” She questioned softly.
“Really really” Jekyl handed her a book bag. “I’ve taken the liberty of packing for you. All the necessary tools, dried foods, the like. You have prepared for this day in full. You know where to go. Do you remember?” He questioned.
“Yes. My objective is to reach Aradenn.” She nodded.
“Very good... Best of luck to you.” The robot then turned and left the room.
Melani stepped out of the room, her eyes peered to an even larger one. “Hm...” She walked over the grated floor, she could see directly down. The place was huge. She came across a kitchen, several doors - and rooms. This place was meant for more people. The entire time... she must had been locked up in that room, while some others lived out here? She stepped into the kitchen and lifted a dirty plate.
She turned then and made her way down a hallway. Her boots clicked along the metal floors, until finally she came to a door. She pressed to open - but it wouldn't. A red light flashed. “Access Denied”
Melani pulled her brows together and then dug into her bad - she pulled out a flat head and popped a panel off the wall. She then ripped at the wires until she finally pressed two together - and the door opened. She then turned and jammed the flathead into the sliding door - keeping it from shutting on her.
She moved inside of the room. It was a lot like hers. Pictures hung on the wall, a bookshelf, a computer... She stepped to the computer and sat down. “Hmm...” She pressed a few keystrokes and she was in the backend of the computer. Writing the code swiftly to hack in. Within seconds the screen flashed green - and she was in. “Vincent Foxtran..” She raised a brow and clicked several times.
She began to read the personal journal of Vincent. She made it one full entry in before the screen suddenly shut off. The entire vault powered down. “What?” She stood then and then the backup generator kicked on. An alert shouted from the speakers. “Overriding System Active, Security Breach alert, All System self destructive active. Hello World active.” And it continued to say that line over and over...
She stood swiftly and rushed out of the room, book bag in hand. Her steps lead her to the stairs upward, down a hallway, and then out the huge vault entrance. As she exited the vault - the huge door suddenly closed. “What?” She stumbled back. The earth began to shake - the inside of the vault was being destroyed. “Why? What - “ she turned and suddenly a huge naked rat attacked her.
It leaped into the air and clawed at her hand. “What the-” she kicked at it and it flew back slightly. She swiftly grabbed her bag and rushed forward, her boots clattering into the dirt path, leading her down the hillside. She saw a city in the not far distance - she bound for it.
As she came up to it - men stood in lifted towers, guns pointed to her. “Someone from a vault” they waved over. “Open the gates”
The huge gate doors opened and Melani stepped inside. A person approached her. “ID please”
Melani reached for her wallet and handed it over. Melani Foxtran, Resident of Vault 301. “Melani Foxtran, we have been waiting for you” he smirked. “Your vault was supposed to open 5 years ago with Vault 302, but it didn’t...” He raised a brow. “Though I am sure there is nothing to worry, we are happy to have you here. Let me check the record system and get you all enrolled... come come” the man lead her into a tent.
He sat down infant of a computer and punched in a few numbers. “Ah, it says here - that you were requested in Aredenn.” A printer began to print. “A ticket was supplied, interesting. It says here - ah, yes. Vincent Foxtran, of course. Your father - has been waiting for you.” He smiled and handed her the ticket.
“Oh uhh - thank you...” She took the ticket. What was happening? Vincent... the journal she read. The first entry was nothing special, just the talking of his family, his regret for not being able to provide for them... Did she cause the meltdown?
She stepped out of the tent and looked to the huge city, it was bustling with people. Though she could see the airship dock from here. These things - airships and buildings, people, she had learned about them, read about them, though this was the first time to actually see them. Breath real air. Feel the sun on her body. She stood for a long moment - until she almost felt dizzy.
Soon enough she handed her ticket to the person. To her the people were like robots to her. It seemed everyone had their tasks, just like a robot would, no one said much - just like a robot did. To tell the difference was difficult, one was made of flesh, the other of metal.
She boarded the ship and looked all around. She still stood in her blue jumpsuit, 301 printed in huge ink on her back... She had to get to Aredenn, she had to meet Vincent - to understand what happened, why she was there. There had to be a truth, and she had to find it. What was she really doing? Learning about technology, inventing, creating, for her entire life. For what? She never questioned it all until now. Until she realized she wasn’t alone. Jekyl had told her she was the only survivor in the vault, and it was his duty to make sure she lived. That dirty plate - some one else was there...
Melani finally sat down at a table - to which a waiter stepped forward and set down a menu. “Fresh from the Vault are we? You must be famished - order something, and I’ll bring it right to you.”
Little did Melani know - she had sat down in the small cafe...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 25, 2018 13:13:30 GMT -5
Jules turned as she heard a bit of commotion. Her eyes fell upon a woman in a vault jumpsuit. Her brows raised slightly, she remembered everyone wearing the jumpsuits when she was a child. As everyone in her vault aged they wore clothing that their parents brought in, or that was packed away. The jumpsuits became worn and tattered. Jules watched as the woman took a seat at the cafe.
“Haven’t seen a vault jumpsuit in years.” Hugo stepped next to her, he smelled of liquor as he tipped his head back and took a swig of his flask. He looked to Jules and chuckled. “What takes you to Aeradenn?” He tilted his head.
“Just a trip to catch up with a friend.” Jules replied to him, her eyes moved back to the cities below.
Hugo shrugged and chuckled as he walked off. He walked over to Melani and sat down across from her. “Hello.” He smiled as he looked to her. “Just got out huh?” He tugged a bit at the sleeve of her jumpsuit. He glanced to the waiter and smiled, waiving him over. “Get her the chef’s special, on me.” He looked back to her a moment. “I would have thought that you would have changed out of that jumpsuit by now.” He raised a brow slightly. “It gets a lot of attention.” He looked to the name on her jumpsuit and he grinned. It read M. Foxtran. Hugo leaned back slightly and took a swig of your flask. “You are right on schedule, Melani.” He raised a brow as he looked to her, “Your father sent me to recover you.”
“Hey, one of your girls over there needs you.” She glanced to Melani a moment and then back to Hugo. “Why don’t you let her eat in peace? This world isn’t what our history classes taught us. Hm?”
Hugo stood up as someone called out to him. “I’ll be back.” He looked to Melani a moment before he glanced to Jules and walked off.
Jules let out a breath, she bit her lip slightly before she looked to Melani. Her eyes read over the embroidered words on the front of the jumpsuit. She offered a weak smile. Foxtran. It was a very hated name. Even Jules despised Mr. Foxtran. He was the reason for her torture over the past 5 years. She held onto her gauntlet absentmindedly as she thought of this. “You should be careful.” She spoke, her eyes glanced to Melani. “Not everyone thinks too fondly of that name you have on that suit.” Jules then walked off, she slipped her ticket from her pocket. She stood before her door and groaned slightly as she held the ticket up. The light flashed red and a robotic voice spoke, ‘access denied’. “If we could just go back to the days of a simple key...” She looked to the ticket again and sighed.
**
“Attention on decks. We will be performing a security check of all passengers. This is for safety purposes. Our guards will be coming around and checking each individual.” The speaker system clicked off.
Someone sitting near Melani perked up. “Did you hear the guards a moment ago?” He questioned the woman across from him. “I heard something about a mage on board...a fucking mage...they aren’t supposed to get out of Voxstein, how the hell did this happen?” He stood up and walked off with the woman next to him.
**
Jules took in a breath as she heard the intercom. She knew this wouldn’t go smoothly. She moved to the next room over and waved her ticket in front of it. It allowed her in. Jules raised a brow slightly and then slipped into the dark room. She moved through the darkness and tucked herself into the empty closet. She closed her eyes as she slid to the floor. She pulled the bag that Agatha gave to her around from her back and sifted through it. There wasn't much inside. A letter it felt like, but Jules couldn’t see it in the light of the closet.
Time passed slowly as she sat, she could hear the guards shout in the hallway as they spoke to the passengers. Jules’ head leaned against the side of the closet as she drifted to sleep. She was awakened soon after by the click of the door to the room. Jules took in a quick breath as the lights turned on in the room. She could see the light bleed into the closet from beneath the door. She stared as the shadow of the person moved into the room. This was it. She would be found and they would throw her into the jail beneath the tower...she’d never see the light of day again. Why had she done this? Her breath shuddered as her pulse began to race.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 25, 2018 18:57:27 GMT -5
Melani looked to the menu and read over the options. She had never heard any of these items before. Grilled Radstag, Hornbeef Pie... She leaned back when someone spoke to her - she glanced up and pulled her brows together. This random stranger knew her name - she had not even said it. Then when he followed it up with - Your father sent me to recover you.
Melani set the menu down and then stood. “Wait - “ she glanced to the other woman - who had threw down a swift line - laced with a touch of hatred, and hurried away. Melani slumped down into her seat, she had to get changed - and she needed to know who this man was, and what he really meant.
Moments later the man returned. “Who are you?” Melani questioned, leaning back as he sat. Hugo lifted a brow and then grinned - taking a long swig from his flask.
“Hugo is the name, I work for your father...I’m a... hunter of sorts” he grinned.
“My father...” Melani grew silent. “What is his name? Who is he? That woman said that my last name...”
Hugo then laughed and sighed. “I wonder what they did to you in that god-forsaken vault” he sighed deeply. “Victor Foxtran. He owns the Foxtran Corporations, of which almost all of our technology, protection and supplies come from. He pretty much owns the place...”
“Where is he then?”
“Aradenn, the sort of Safe Haven in this wasteland. He has generators, water purifiers, farms, everything one might need to survive in this hell...” Hugo stretched his arms out. “So pretty much you are in the greatest of hands, the richest you could say. Anything you want - your father can conjure. There is a very very long line of people who would love to be in your spot...” He looked over to the edge of the ship. “Down there... its not safe. Mutated creatures, no food or water is safe, disease and just...” He shook his head. “It is not easy, even for the civilized places. They get swarmed by giant mutated beasts, or the flies bring in a nuclear plague, who knows...” He sighed deeply.
“I..” She sucked in a breath. “I do not know how to process this...” She shook her head.
Hugo placed his hands on the table and raised a brow. “What was the vault like for you?” He questioned.
“I lived in 700 square feet, I never saw anything but it, for 25 years. A robot taught me how to talk, how to read and write everything. He primarily tasked me to inventing, calculating, creating mechanical devices, for just about everything...” She sucked in a breath. “And this Victor guy....” She crossed her arms. “Jekyl, my robot - never told me anything of family. Had I not read any books, I wouldn’t know what it even is. My mother and father? Anytime I asked Jekyl he just replied that he did not have that data. And that was the end of the conversation..” She stood then.
“Well, I’m going to take you to him - and you can ask Victor right then and there... I don’t know what happened, or why you grew up that way... but I’m not paid to ask either” he stood and nodded. “That girl - Jules, she is right. You really should change... oh and here” he tossed her a device. “Wear that”
Melani grasped it. It was a thick bracelet, with one large screen on it. She touched the screen and it lit up. It was a sort of display... she strapped it over her wrist and looked it. Instantly it began to read her vitals. It had a meter at the top that said “Rads”
“Go.. go change. I’ll have the food sent to your door... Room 22. Right down there” Hugo pointed. It was then that the coms spoke - a search. “No need to fear - they won’t bother you” Hugo nodded and waved her on.
Melani stood then and nodded slowly. She was so confused by everything - her brain was running a thousand miles a second. This world is not what Jekyl really said it would be... But how would he really know? She grabbed her bag and stepped down the hallway until she came to her door.
As she entered - a man followed in behind her. “Excuse me Miss - we have to check -” he paused. He had a wand in his hand, a device to scan the body to tell if it was a mage or not. “Foxtran, please. Forgive me” he bowed his head. His screen on his arm began to beep - “There’s someone else here?” He questioned.
Melani glanced to the back of the room. “Oh uh, in the bathroom, yeah - they’re with me.” She smiled then.
“Ah, I see. Very well, good night” the guard nodded and stepped out of the room. The door closed and she turned.
“Who’s in here?” She questioned and then approached the bathroom, she opened it. Empty. She then came to the closet and opened it. “You...” She stepped back. “What are you doing in here?” She questioned. “Jules isn’t it?” She crossed her arm. She sighed then “Do you have any clothes by chance?” She stepped back and pulled at her vault suit. “This apparently will not do... Hugo told me a little bit - about my father. I don’t know anything. My father, this world, nothing. So, what do you know? And... why were you hiding?” She raised a brow.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 25, 2018 23:34:52 GMT -5
Jules looked up to Melani she bit her lip slightly. “Um...yes...Jules that’s my name...” She let out a breath. “Thank you...for that...” She shook her head, “You really don’t know this world do you?” She questioned then. Jules slowly stood, “I have clothes yes...” She’d packed a few outfits before she left for the flight. Jules moved over to the small table and set her pack down. She pulled out the neatly folded clothes and set them on the table. “I only have a few outfits.” She glanced to Melani, “Whichever one you like...”
Jules shifted slightly as she looked to Melani, “I was hiding because of the guards...” She glanced to the door, listening. She had her arms crossed, she looked rather worried, she wasn’t as defensive as before. “I imagine they are searching for something that doesn’t belong on the flight and that I am that something...you see...” She looked to Melani, “Vincent, your father I presume...he speaks of his bright daughter...” She raised a brow slightly before she turned her eyes away. “Mr. Foxtran created this...” She clicked her gauntlet and whirred before it released and she could pull the glove from her hand. Her bracelet glowed a gentle blue.
“What I know is the people from vault 301...the vault I was in....we were an experiment...” She shook her head. “5 years ago when the vault opened we were all taken captive...these...things were put on our wrists...” She grit her teeth slightly. “The experiments that were done on us gave us powers...I...” She let out a breath as she replaced the gauntlet upon her wrist. “We are called mages...I...haven’t ever been able to use my magic...but I saw a few use theirs as the soldiers stormed into our vault.” She shook her head, tears in her eyes. “Your father enslaved us, we were taken to Voxstein and held captive there. Our power is drained...it powers these machines...” She motioned to the area around her. “The cities are powered from my magic...weapons...” Her eyes fell. “A few years ago a new weapon was created that Baron Ruger demanded your father to make....the magic from the mages was used to power it...it leveled a city in seconds...vaporizing it....a rebellion had begun...and....the Baron didn’t like it...so many died...” She whispered the last bit.
Jules took in a breath her eyes darted to the door. She heard a swift knock at the door. Jules glanced to Melani, “Please...” She shook her head. “Please don’t let them find me...” She rushed into the closet then.
“Miss Foxtran.” A voice came from the other side of the door. “Miss Foxtran I have your dinner for you, compliments of Mr. Hugo Brevard.”
Jules waited in the closet as the woman delivered the food. She peeked her head out and took in a slow breath. “The mages aren’t allowed to leave Voxstein...my friend Agatha...she’s trying to stop this torture...” She sat down on the end of the bed. “I don’t know what they are planning next but...my friend Peter...he stopped the doctor yesterday from killing me...I can’t remember much...” She muttered. “I’m sorry...I...” Jules stood and crossed her arms. “I’m probably overwhelming you...” She shook her head then.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 25, 2018 23:49:24 GMT -5
Melani stepped over to the table as Jules spoke. She plucked a simple t shirt and jeans. To her luck - she appeared to be about the same size as Jules, maybe a little smaller. This would do for her... She set the clothes down, her fingers laced in the fabric. She had actually never worn anything except the vault jumpsuit before, though she had seen pictures of people with clothes on before.
She looked up as Jules removed her gauntlet - revealing a glowing bracelet. Melani quickly ushered over and gripped her wrist - lifting her hand upward. She rubbed her thumb over it and then she dropped Jules’s hand. She said nothing. Defeat rolled over her being and she placed a hand to her head.
“Vincent Foxtran...” She shook her head. “If he is my blood born father, he is no father to me” she lowered her forehead into both of her hands. She took in a deep breath and shook her head. “Vault 301 was to be our sister-vault...” She bit her lip slightly as she thought. “We were supposed to open at the same time...” She raised a brow. “I only just emerged from my vault - and no one else was there at all. The place was empty. There were others with me, I think. I only had my two rooms, the doors were locked. I never saw the rest... not until today...” She stood then.
“What is Victor like? Is he...a bad guy?” She questioned. “He has to be, to enslave you with.. with...” She stared to the bracelet. “He has an entire army of robots, doesn’t he? Laser beams that can fire across the entire planet? Mechanisms to listen in on any electronic device? GPS tracking on heat signatures?” She balled up her fist. “I know it, that is why he has this power” she grit her teeth. “I’ve spent my entire life slaving away in that god forsaken 12 by 12 chamber, making him the very power that he wields to control everyone?” She pounded her fist on the table.
It was then that there was a knock. She approached the door and accepted the meal. “Thanks..” She set it down and looked back to the closet. “How many of you were in that vault? How many lives has he stolen?” She grasped the clothes and then slipped into the bathroom to change.
She emerged moments later... she sat down at the couch and thought for a long moment. “I didn’t suffocate in that vault for nothing. I’m going to make this right. I have to stop him - this isn’t right. This isn't what Jekyl said the world was supposed to be, that wasn’t the vault-tech’s promise” she leaned her head to the side. “Your vault was an experiment.. was it supposed to be? Did they plan this the entire time? Was I planned?” She sighed. “Sorry... I guess I am stuck with this. I’ll do what I can to keep him from finding you. You should stay here while the guards patrol. I suppose my name gives me much power... I might as well abuse that...”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2018 0:28:02 GMT -5
Jules had jerked back slightly when Melani grabbed at her bracelet to inspect it. She took in a slow breath. “So each and every mage Vincent is a horrible person...he wants nothing more than the power that he holds...to the Mechs...to those that benefit from the torture that we endure...Mechs love Vincent, he has given them a peace of mind that a war will never come again...he has all of the weapons that you mentioned and...even more I imagine...he lives in Aeradenn...and he...lives in this home that is raised, it overlooks the entire city, it’s a mansion...the amount of money he has...” Jules sighed slightly.
Jules crossed her arms and bit her lip slightly, “Keeping them from finding me is going to be a hefty task, Melani.” She watched her a moment. “My father was a research scientist for Vault-Tech....he is the one that gave us the experimental injections...and the more the years passed the more I had to endure...I’ve heard them speak about me a few times when I am at the tower...they think I can’t hear them when they are draining me...but I can...I may be in pain...but that doesn’t make me deaf...” Jules grit her teeth slightly. “I was a huge part of the experiment, they increased my dosage of the drug over the years to alarming amounts...amounts that killed others in the vault...” She shook her head. “Those born now...from the mages, they are also mages, enslaved by the Baron and Mr. Foxtran from birth...” She shook her head. “Even those unfortunate souls that fall in love with a mage, the child has a chance of becoming one of us...and that life...”
Jules’ words fell off she was silent for a long moment. “This whole thing...everything was planned, Melani...I’m sure you were at the center of this plan...” She shook her head. “Nearly 1,200 of us were taken by the government the day they stormed our vault with these bracelets...the day we were to celebrate...our Master of the vault...he lied to us...he knew the whole time what they had planned for us...” Jules shook her head again, “We are nothing more than a piece on the chess board to Vincent...the death of a mage for a boost of our magic...to him it is worth it...”
Jules took in a breath then, “Your power that you hold, being his daughter...” She shook her head. “You have limitless power, every guard will bow down to you, every Mech...even Mages will fear you and do as they are told...” Jules lowered her eyes, “Most of them anyway, you do have the resistance...”
Jules crossed her arms and shifted uncomfortably. She glanced toward the door as another knock came from it, she bit her lip. “Miss Foxtran.” A man’s voice came from the other side of the door. “I do hate to bother you, but, we must search your cabin for an escaped mage, it is for your safety and it will only take a moment. Your cabin is the last on the ship, we have been requested by Mr. Foxtran to inspect the entire ship to locate the missing mage.”
Jules swallowed, her eyes widened slightly. She glanced around the room quickly trying to think of an escape. Her ocean eyes were full of fear. Her life was over. She would be beaten and drained to the edge of death day in and day out...she’d never be able to do as much as lift a finger again. She’d heard the horror stories of the jail beneath the tower.
“Can’t you leave Miss Foxtran alone?” Another voice. “She’s had a very trying day today and you numbskulls bothering her is enough, now be gone.”
“Sir...we apologize....we thought....”
“You didn’t think. Good night.” The voice spoke again. The sound of footsteps leading away echoed down the hallway. Then a swift knock at the door. “I’m coming in, Melani.” The voice again and the door beeped before it opened. Hugo stepped into the room he stepped forward and drew his pistol quickly aiming it at Jules. “Move and I’ll make sure you can’t run away from the guards.” He smirked then, “Nothing personal doll, just business, hm?” He watched her, Jules’ eyes were filled with fear. He glanced to Melani, “Not even out of the vault a day and you already caught a mage. Your father will be pleased.” He chuckled and stepped forward. He pulled a device from his pockets and slapped it onto Jules’ wrists. It was a pair of laser handcuffs. Jules took in quick breaths as she watched him holster his pistol.
Jules waited for Hugo to turn. She reached forward swiftly, her arms wrapped around his neck and she pulled back tightly, choking off his airway. Hugo staggered slamming back against the wall. Jules let out a cry as she held onto him more tightly. “I’m not going to let you take me back.” She whimpered. He slammed against her again. This time her head bounced against the wall and her grip broke. The world spun in circles.
Hugo coughed and chuckled as he turned. “Melani, this is a mage, she’s very dangerous.” He had his gun pointed at her again. “You can’t trust them. Mages killed my family when I was young.” He watched as Jules’ head lulled to the side, her eyes were glowing slightly from her racing emotions. She whimpered as her bracelet counteracted the surge in magic. “You’ll see.” Hugo offered a weak smile. “They can’t be trusted.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2018 0:47:07 GMT -5
“I think you are right - there is some hidden agenda... I hacked into the mainframe when I was released from my vault. I didn’t make it far before a manual meltdown occurred. Just as I left the vault - it closed, and the inside of it was purged. The only reason something like that would happen is if there was something huge to hide. I felt a bomb shake the earth, nothing in that vault survived...” She crossed her arms and then turned as the guards spoke through the door.
Though Hugo came to save the day - but then things when south fast. “No Hugo-”she shouted and she rushed forward. Her hand clasped around the barrel of his gun and she ripped it from his grip, holding it now in her own hands. “How could I know that you can be trusted - when I cannot even trust the man who calls me my father?” She lifted a brow and held the gun towards him.
“You’re going to let Jules go - or I’ll ruin your entire life and wish that I ended you. I hear that I just so happen to have that kind of power. But before I do that - you’re going to take me to my father, and forget that Jules ever existed...” She pulled the lever back. “Do we have an agreement?”
Hugo smirked at Melani and shook his head. “You don’t have the guts to pull that trigger...”
“Don’t try me. I grew up with zero contact. Your beating heart means nothing to me - and I doubt it would bother me if it stopped...” She gripped the gun.
“I know you don't because you want to spare her... your emotions are stronger than you think” he reached forward and took the gun from her easily. “But you do have the power to ruin me...” He put the gun away. “Fine, if you want to protect her -fine. But the moment she leaves this boat... there is no telling who will be chasing her... Vincent wants her, he will get her...” He pulled his flask out of his pocket and took a swig.
Melani sighed and then rushed over to Jules and helped her up. “Humans made mages, now we trap them and drain them for their power? You don’t think that’s a little fucked up?” She questioned.
Hugo chuckled. “Yeah, sure. Or we could let them run around the world and kill us first” he lifted a brow.
“I doubt there is a mage alive that could over power everything Vincent has. Trust me, I built it all. I know what he can do...and surely he has only improved upon my initial creations...” She sighed deeply. “And I know that Jules is harmless. With that bracelet on... she can’t do anything, trust me - I know. I invented it...” She sucked in a breath. “Unknowingly....I trapped all of the mages. Thousands of people... no one deserves that. They don't even get a chance to prove themselves. You cannot understand the anger that resides in me as I uncover the truth - being caged my whole life, an effort to brainwash me, lie to me, and force me to create every weapon that Victor uses against the world? So... I can sympathize with the mages, to be trapped, to suffer, against your own will, just because you were born into this world - as you are.” She stood and faced Hugo.
“Now get out. I don’t want to see you until tomorrow morning. Any funny business and I’ll make sure to not only ruin your life - but to ruin your daughters too.”
Hugo froze then and grit his teeth. “How?”
“The tattoo on your arm. Susanna?” She lifted a brow. “You'd only do this brute work if you were desperate, desperate for money. Willing to throw your morals aside. The only reason to do that is for family. A wife? No, no ring... A daughter.”
Hugo grit his teeth. “A dirty game to play... be glad I am a friendly player...” He then swiftly turned and left the room.
As soon as he was gone - Melani came back over to Jules. “Are you okay? I’m going to get you some ice for your head” she stepped over to the small fridge in the room and pulled out a baggie, and filled it with ice. She came back over to Jules and handed it to her
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2018 1:23:05 GMT -5
The world spun as Melani spoke to Hugo. She closed her eyes, to regain her bearing. She grit her teeth as she felt the bracelet counteract her magic again. Anytime she had a swell of emotions...be it fear or anything that overwhelmed her this would happen. Her magic was strong enough to push through the bracelet, not many mages were that powerful.
Jules got to her feet and staggered slightly, she held her hand up to her head she looked to Melani, the amount of emotion behind her words, the frustration in her voice. It reminded her of Agatha. Her frustration with the way the mages were treated, no one seemed to feel quite that way...not a Mech anyway. Only a few Mechs wanted the Mages to be free.
Jules took in a breath as she listened to the two banter back and forth. Soon enough she felt the ice against her head, she lifted her hand and held it. “I’m...okay...” She spoke softly. “Believe me, I’ve had much worse, Melani.” She winced slightly and sighed.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, the search has been completed at this time, all safety checks have been conducted and we will return to our regularly scheduled events.” The speaker system chirped.
Jules winced slightly as she pulled the bag of ice from her head, a bit of blood was splotched onto the plastic. Hugo had hit her hard against the wall. Her head was still spinning. “Thank you for stopping him Melani...” She stood slowly, her vision blurred and she sat back down, her eyes glowed again and she let out a whimper as the bracelet blocked her magic. “Hugo...” She grit her teeth. “He’s right, your father...he will find a way to get me back. Peter told me that my magic powered the bomb that leveled the city...he has hunters...I have to get to Agatha...she will help keep me safe. You...” She let out a soft laugh, “You would like her, she is the only Mech I’ve met that seems to think like you...or you think like her...I suppose.”
Jules took in a slow breath, “Agatha is the leader of the resistance...maybe you can help...” She drew her brows together slightly. “If you made the bracelets...how do they come off?...do you know how to get them off?” Jules watched Melani intently for a moment. “I’ve seen so many mages die because of these...trying to force it off...stabbing it...shooting it...melting it...” Jules sighed softly. “It doesn’t have a key, that’s what everyone has come to the conclusion of...but Agatha...when I saw her she said she’d figured something out...maybe...she did?” Jules questioned and then she sighed. She stood and rummaged through her bag and pulled out the letter Agatha had written her.
Jules,
I know that our meeting will be short. If you’re searching through this bag, trying to decide if you should go or not...speak with Peter, he may help you decide. You must trust me, I assure you that you will be safe. I have succeeded this with 4 other mages and they are safe here in Aeradenn with me.
When you reach Aeradenn I will meet you at the ship docks. If by chance I am not there, travel north on Water Street until it comes to an end, then take a left into the back alleyway, you will find a staircase that will lead down into the place that I call home. I have a plan for getting the bracelet off of you...and all of the others...I can only hope that it works...
I will see you soon, my friend.
Ags.
Jules stared at the paper for a long moment. “Okay...” She nodded, “Hopefully she’s at the gates...” Jules sat down on the couch then, her eyes heavy. She held the ice to the back of her head again. “Melani...could I stay here?” She asked as she leaned back. “I’m afraid if the guards come around again...I...” She bit her lip slightly then shook her head. “What happens to Mages that break the laws set forth by the government...they are locked away beneath the Foxtran tower in Voxstein...beaten....drained....never seen again...I...” She let out a shaken breath. “I would rather die than have that happen...it happened to my good friend Nicholas...he fought against them...it’s been 4 years since they took him...I don’t even know if he is alive.” Jules lay on the couch then, her head propped by the arm, she stared at the ceiling. Her eyes grew heavy and soon enough she slipped into a slumber, her hand still held the bag of ice.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2018 16:54:52 GMT -5
Melani lifted a brow as she sat on the edge of the bed, she plucked up the plate and ate a French fry from it. Honestly in all the commotion she wasn't very hungry, she might eat a fry or two but probably nothing more. There was this looming darkness, a build up of anxiety - something she never really felt before. It was as if the vault opened and the reality of humanity crushed her. Emotions came in waves. Pain. Anger. Sadness. Hatred. Pity. Some of what she felt - she didn't even know what to call. Most of it, perhaps. Being raised by a robot - made her act and feel like a robot. But she was a human, at the end of the day. She knew when she was young that she was a human, and that she had emotions. Jekyl never really gave it much of his time, and soon enough she did the same. Her emotions never made sense, but numbers - math, science and technology did.
Melani leaned back slightly. "Agatha?" she whispered. "I am curious of the person who is going up against Victor. I know what he has, and I can only think of what he might do with it..." she glanced over to Jules, who was beginning to fall asleep. "Yes-I said you could stay earlier..." she chuckled slightly and then winced a bit. The last mumbling words before she fell asleep were gruesome... Melani sighed and pulled one of the blankets from the bed, she stepped over and laid it over Jules...
Melani made her way back to her bed and slipped under the sheets. She pulled her arm up and the flat screen lit up. She touched it - the lights in the cabin turned off. She lay, slightly propped, clicking away at the device on her arm. It was like having a computer on her arm. She could do just about anything on it. She lifted a brow and then easily punched in some codes. If it was like a computer, then they wouldn't have gone far from the operating system. She was able to access the back end screen with ease. It appeared in a green ancient text, she began to write code, hacking into the device - and then writing a series of scripts. All with one finger, pocking at each letter... It was a few hours later that she slipped away in sleep, just after returning to the main home screen...
Melani woke in the morning to a knock on the door. Hugo stood outside. "I'm coming in" he opened the door and then looked to the two, still sleep. "Geez, you'd think you both had too much to drink. Wake up, we're about to dock..." he lifted his bag and then pulled out a bracelet, it was a simple metal band. "This is for you..." he held it up - looking towards Jules. "When we go to leave today - you will walk through a scanning device. This bracelet with block the signal, but it won't stop it completely. The signal will have to take some time and work through the blocker, it will give us a solid 2 minutes before it figures it out and then sounds an alert."
"A delay relay" Melani perked up and looked to the bracelet. "It holds the signal for as long as it can. The scanning device will then spam the bracelet until it is overloaded and it finally gets a return signal. Then the scanner will know that a mage passed through - and send the alert... let me see it" she stood up and walked over to it. She turned it around and popped the thin cover off of it. "Uhuh" she sighed deeply. "You'll have exactly 2 minutes and 14 seconds" she put it back together. "I made that" she shook her head.
"Well..." Hugo coughed slightly. "Enough time to give you both a head start. They won't know who triggered it, if we get you both in front of the line - they would think it is someone else..."
"Mm... Might just work" Melani looked to Jules. "we should be first in line then..."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2018 23:05:21 GMT -5
Jules grasped the bracelet and placed it upon her left wrist. She looked to it a moment and gave a nod. “We should be first in line then.” She agreed. She looked to Hugo, her eyes weary. “Thank you.” She spoke as she watched him.
Hugo grinned and let out a soft chuckle. “If Lady Foxtran requests your safety, I’ll do my best to keep you safe. Even though it is against my....beliefs...” He paused a moment, “But, maybe she is correct, maybe not every Mage is a murderer, I didn’t think you were a mage when we danced.” He turned then. “Front of the line then, that should be easy.” He spoke as he stepped from the room.
Jules pulled her pack onto her back and she glanced to Melani. “If...we get separated....I will find you, and...” She took in a breath as she searched Melani’s eyes for a long moment. “Thank you.” She turned away then and hurried down the hallway behind Hugo.
As they walked up onto the decks others followed. There was a crowd gathering. “Prepare to port!” A man called over the chatter of the crowd.
“Make way! Make way!” Hugo pushed Mechs aside gently, he reached back and gently grasped onto Melani.
“And who do you think you are?” The man at the gate questioned as the ship docked.
Hugo grinned at him. “A friend of Vincent Foxtran, I have an important task at hand, we must get off the ship first.” He watched the man.
“Hugo.” He chuckled as he watched him. “I almost didn’t recognize you with two women at your side.” He winked and then looked to Jules. “Who’s this?”
Hugo wrapped his arm around Jules’ hips and smiled brightly. “A close friend of mine, here to see the sights in Aeradenn, possibly get a job. Eh sweetheart?” He asked and kissed the top of Jules’ head.
Jules offered a shy smile to the man as he moved aside to let them through. “Good luck with that one, Hugo.” He winked, “She’s quite the catch.”
Hugo rushed forward from the door and down the long ramp that led into a large building. Gates on either side. Jules was already looking around. She didn’t see Agatha. She bit her lip slightly as a pit formed in her stomach. What if something happened to her? She shook the thought away as they approached the gate.
“Ah ah ah.” An arm barred in front of Jules as Hugo and Melani passed through the security checkpoint with ease. “Passport.” The man stared to her.
Jules stared to the two as they were ushered forward. “Of course.” She smiled to the man, she was already standing beneath the scanner, the time had already begun. She fumbled in her bag and pulled out the fake passport that Agatha had created for her. “Here you are sir.” She smiled.
The old man took the passport into his hands and he turned to the computer. He scanned the barcode and clicked a few buttons on the computer. “Lilly Bridgewater.” He spoke as he scrolled through the screen. “A lot of protected files on you girl.” He grumbled slightly.
“Sir, may I pass? I’ve already lost my friends ahead of me.” She glanced forward, it had already been almost two minutes that he was fumbling around on the computer.
The old man handed her back the passport, “You may pass, have a grand time in Aeradenn Lilly.” He smiled.
Jules nodded and took her passport. She rushed forward. “Melani?” She questioned as she looked around. The space outside of the airship building docks was bustling with people. A man ran into her nearly knocking her down.
“Pay attention!” He grumbled as he picked up his newspaper from the ground.
“S-sorry.” Jules stumbled and continued forward. “Come on...” She whispered to herself as she glanced around, she rushed forward quickly. Moments later she could hear the buzz of the officers at the gates. She glanced over her shoulder as the bracelet upon her left wrist turned to ash.
“Mage!!!” An officer called. “There’s a mage!”
Jules slipped into a back alleyway and took off in a sprint. She could hear the clatter of footsteps behind her. She winced as she tried to remember. “Water Street...” She breathed as she turned quickly down another alley. She came to a dead end. “Shit...” She muttered as she turned around. Three guards came running toward her.
“Hands up mage!” One ordered.
Jules took in a shaken breath, her eyes moved about the world around her. She couldn’t give up now, she was so close. She rushed forward toward the guards.
“Stop!” One ordered as he pulled his pistol.
Jules leaped into the air and kicked off of the wall of a brick building. She reached up and grasped onto a metal fire escape ladder. She pulled herself up just as a bullet ricocheted off of the wall beside her. Jules sprinted up the stairs quickly, the rusty metal began to give away and she had to leap to the top as it gave away and crashed down toward the men below. Jules rushed across the rooftop, her heart pounded within her ears. She ran down the fire escape on the other side of the building and leaped to the ground. She glanced around until her eyes fell upon the sign. Water Street. “Which way...?” She whispered.
“This way.” A voice spoke just before a cloak was tossed over her shoulders and a hood was pulled up over her head. “Come on, Jules.” The man grasped onto her hand and towed her forward quickly.
They moved through the people in the streets racing along until they came to a back alley where they ran down a flight of stairs. Jules was ushered into a home that was built beneath the ground, only small windows to line the side of the building to offer a bit of light. She turned swiftly and found herself staring into familiar eyes. “Peter?” She breathed. “What are you doing...here?”
Peter grinned, “I came to make sure you were safe. Agatha asked me to.” He chuckled. “This is it.” He led her into a room with a small woodturning stove. “Everyone is out now, but soon enough this place will fill up.”
Jules glanced to the door. “I got separated from someone...I need to find her...”
“Who?” Peter questioned.
Jules bit her lip, “Melani Foxtran...Vincent’s daughter...”
Peter’s eyes widened. “Jules...” He let out a long breath. “You can’t trust the Foxtrans...” He muttered.
**
Hugo pulled Melani through the city, “We can’t stop for her, especially now they are searching for her. I’ll try to find her later...but I cannot guarantee her safety...” He brought her to the base of a tower that led up to a huge home that seemed to float above the city. It was rounded with several levels. “I’m sorry, Melani.” Hugo pulled her into the elevator, “But I must get you to your father.” He pressed the button that would take them to the top. He watched out the glass window as they began to rise from the ground, guards rushed through the streets searching for Jules. “She won’t make it through tomorrow.” He spoke, a tinge of sadness to his voice. “I really thought that bracelet would have given her a chance.” The elevator doors opened then.
A woman approached, she wore a long jacket, leather boots reached up to her knees with black pants beneath. Long wavy brown hair hung about her face. She had emerald green eyes. A smile curved up her lips. “Ah Melani.” She spoke, “It is good to see you have made it, in one piece.” She stepped forward and bowed slightly. “Agatha Stonewall, at your service.” She stood and glanced to Hugo. “Mr. Foxtran would like me to take it from here, Hugo.” She looked to him with a smug smile before she turned. “Come now, Melani, let me show you to your room, you can get dressed to see your father.”
Hugo grumbled slightly, “Agatha...” He grunted. “I’ll go take care of that...errand, Melani.” He spoke as he pressed the elevator button to take him back down to the city so that he could search for Jules.
**
“Where is Ags? She was supposed to be at the gates...” Jules questioned.
“She was called in to work, on account of Melani’s arrival...so you’re stuck with me.”
Jules stared to Peter a long moment. “She works for Foxtran?!” She snapped.
Peter let out a long breath. “Jules...so do I...it’s the best way to learn what is happening...the best leverage...”
Jules paced slightly and offered a nod as she stepped to the bar and poured herself a drink. She downed it and sat down before the fire. “So we wait...” She whispered softly.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2018 18:37:42 GMT -5
Melani followed along until suddenly alarms began to blare. In an instant the crowd of people around them began to run around frantically, full of fear - unaware of what was going on. “Jules-” She shouted just as Hugo ripped her away. “No-” she struggled in his grip, but he clasped onto her arm tightly and pushed her forward.
“She’s made it this far, she will make it” Hugo spoke as he lead her forward. A few blocks and it was quiet. Melani looked up as they approached a giant tower in the middle of the city. Her eyes trailed so far upward until finally it was looking 90 degrees upward, to the building on top.
“Is that?” She whispered. It was disgusting, really. A sheer view of power and wealth. There was no need for it. It was a waste of materials, efforts, everything - that could have gone to the people. Jekyl had told her what it would be like out here, it was close to true. A wasteland of horror and suffering, nothing and no-one was safe. It would take hundreds of years for the land to heal, for the society to develop...
Melani stepped inside. It was a breath of wonderful - crisp fresh air. Purified and cleaned, like nothing she had experienced so far. Even the vault had a sort of cruddy dusty taste. She stepped into the elevator. As the elevator climbed 0 her eyes watched the passing lights on the tall walls. There was nothing, all of this lift - was empty space. It irritated her the further they went up.
When the doors opened she emerged and glanced to the woman who had been waiting for them... “Agatha?” She questioned softly. Her eyes turned to Hugo - who stepped back into the elevator. “Do you know Jules?” She questioned, closing the distance between them as she whispered the name. Though, she was quiet - this woman could be someone else, she couldn’t trust her - not yet.
“what..do you do here?” She questioned as she followed. They winded down a series of hallways, until they came to a door that opened up in a large room. It had a King Size bed, beautiful modern lamps, gorgeous flowing curtains, it was beautiful. “What... does he expect of me?” She questioned, almost timidly. Why was she released just now? It was evident he had been here or a while, long enough to gain control. That means he was in a different vault, or he left the vault early - with everyone else. But how early? Why did he leave her? These questions... she would ask him if she had the chance...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2018 19:33:19 GMT -5
Agatha hesitated slightly at the mentioning of Jules’ name. She gave a soft smile though she shook her head, “I know a lot of people, Miss Foxtran.” She led her to her room and once the doors slid shut behind her she let out a breath. She glanced around the interior of the room. The entire tower was more advanced than anything in the city of Aeradenn. Vincent had everything, even robots as servants.
“What I do is whatever your father asks.” Agatha stepped over to a dresser, she moved a few bottles around, arranging them differently, really just doing something to calm herself. She seemed on edge slightly. When Melani questioned about her father Agatha turned to her, she raised a brow slightly, “Hm, I’m not sure what he expects of you...” She watched closely, “He was so happy to hear that the vault had finally opened...your freedom seems to be the only thing on his mind. Vault 301 malfunctioned...I guess...” Agatha stepped over to the window, looking out over the city. “At least that is all the Vincent has told me, he doesn’t tell me too much. It isn’t my place to know the inner workings of things. You understand?”
Agatha crossed her arms, she then let out a soft chuckle. “You asked if I knew someone.” She watched Melani, gaging her, trying to read her the best she could. “Jules Brisco, she was on the same ship that departed at 11:30pm last night from Voxstein, which is the closest city to Vault 301. I was there yesterday when your father got word of the vault opening. I made sure the officers knew to look out for you and I made sure you had a ticket to town. But, I had to run another errand so you were stuck with Hugo as your escort, though he’s not all that bad.” She let out a soft laugh. “I have a feeling Jules spoke to you, otherwise you wouldn’t know her name as Jules...” She glanced to the door a moment, listening it seemed. “You should get dressed, hm?” She walked over to the closet. “Your father would like you to dress as you please of course. He has outfits fashioned for you from the seamstress in town...come look.” Agatha walked into the sickeningly huge closet full of clothing. She closed the door then and looked to Melani.
“Don’t speak a word to him about me or Jules.” She whispered, “You don’t know what he is capable of.” She searched Melani’s eyes. “I imagine if Jules has entrusted you with her name that you can be trusted to not speak of her, hm?” Agatha shifted slightly, “We can talk about this later...There’s something you need to know...about your sister...” She bit her lip slightly. “We can’t talk here, but if you want to know more about Jules or......if you want to help, you can meet me at the Old Granger Saloon tonight.” Her voice was hushed. She then opened the door, “Just pick any outfit in there, Miss Foxtran.” She smiled brightly, her attitude changing completely.
Agatha stood with her arms crossed as she waited for Melani to get dressed. Soon enough they walked down the hallways and up a flight of stairs. “You’ve anything you wish for here. Food, music...your father has worked hard to provide such a luxurious life to you, Miss Foxtran. So many have lined up just begging to enter this tower.” She chuckled as a robot passed them with a tray of empty plates and glasses.
Agatha then paused before a door, “This is your father’s office.” She nodded. She pushed the door open and walked in. Agatha got down on one knee, bowing her head. “Mr. Foxtran, I have your daugh...”
“Melani.” Vincent looked up from the paperwork before him, a computer next to him had green words scrolling across the screen. “How wonderful.” He turned off the screen of his computer and stood. “Thank you Miss Stonewall, you always deliver as promised, that will be all for now, please take the afternoon off as celebration.” He stepped forward toward Melani then.
Agatha stood and turned, her eyes locked on Melani a moment as she slipped from the room. Agatha let out a long breath as walked through the home. Her skin crawled each time she spoke to Mr. Foxtran, he was a snake, just his presence was poison to her.
**
Jules spooned warm soup into her mouth as she watched people begin to come home. “When will Agatha be back?” She questioned and looked to Peter.
“Oh didn’t you hear?” Another man asked. “She’s a bit busy entertaining Vincent’s daughter.” He spoke in a snobby tone. “Just what we need, another fucking Foxtran.”
Jules balled her fist. “She isn’t like him!” She snapped at him and stood.
The man stood and raised a brow, a snicker came over his lips. “Oh? And what makes you think that?”
“She’s been locked away for 25 years slaving away making all these inventions for him! She didn’t even know who he was!” Jules had fire in her voice as she spoke.
The man scoffed, “Sure, you do know it is the Foxtran way to lie. Right?” He gulped down his lager. “Or are you that stupid?”
Jules didn’t miss a beat, her fist flew forward and clocked him in the side of the jaw. Her eyes glowed and she winced as her bracelet fought against her choking back her magic.
The man held his jaw and a chuckle escaped his lips. “Well, well.” He looked to Peter, “Is this is girl Agatha is always going on about? Eh? The savior?” He spit blood from his mouth. “We ought to open up shop then eh? Well darlin, I do hope you’re right, because we are going to need something like that to stop Vincent Foxtran. You...” He chuckled and gripped her wrist that had the gauntlet on it. “You can’t do a damn thing with that bracelet on.” He then stepped back and pulled a lever on the wall. The walls moved about and tables popped from the floors. Agatha’s home each night turned into a bar. It was a decent cover, it kept the government off of her back and it quenched the thirst of guards. Though behind the walls of the bar the resistance sat, hidden well behind false doorways.
Jules’ jaw dropped slightly as she glanced around. The fireplace, the couches, everything was all hidden behind a wall that had popped up from the floor.
Peter let out a soft chuckle, “Agatha is a smart one.” He smiled, “I’m just the scientist.” He winked, “But she can create some neat things.” He stood, “Let’s go sit over there, she’ll be here soon enough.” He nodded.
**
Later that night the bar was full of people, mechs crowded into the place. Old Granger Saloon. It was the busiest bar in town. Agatha had to make her money somewhere to help feed the mages she saved, to help fund the fake IDs. Jules was in the back of the bar sitting at a table with Peter and Agatha. “Jules, what all did you say to the Foxtran girl?” Agatha questioned. “She asked about you, she seemed concerned.”
Jules took a sip of her beer, “She didn’t know the horrors that her father has committed...I told her about it...about how life is for us...” She glanced away. “She seemed horrified honestly.”
Agatha nodded, “Well, hopefully she is as pure of heart as she seems...unless that snake can corrupt her into his ways. Maybe we have a shot at getting some help from her.” She leaned back in her chair. “I invited her here, so we will see.” She nodded.
Jules nodded as well and sighed softly. She glanced to Peter whom walked to the front bar. At the front bar Hugo sat, he downed a glass of whiskey. “Have you seen a girl. About this tall.” He held his hand out. “Grey hair, beautiful blue eyes.” He stared to the barkeep.
“What makes you think we’ve seen her?” The barkeep questioned, he had a bruise on his chin from Jules hitting him earlier.
Peter stood at the end of the bar listening. He bit his lip slightly and slipped back into the back. “Hey...someone is asking about you up front...we gotta get her somewhere safe, Ags.”
“She’s safe. We’ll wait.” Agatha spoke and crossed her arms.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2018 20:46:32 GMT -5
Melani stepped into the huge closet, she glanced around. “How would he know my size?” She whispered under her breath as she grasped for a pair of pants. They were a perfect fit, she could tell. She turned then as Agatha spoke of Jules, of her father, and then of her sister.
“I have... a sister?” She felt a deep pit fill her stomach. It wasn’t excitement, it was sadness - almost anger, or perhaps surprise. She had always dreamt of having a family, a mother and father, a sister, and maybe a dog. She had a sneaky feeling that it wasn’t going to be this way, this sister of hers - would she even get to meet her, and would she like her?
She pulled a tunic and pants on, she then pulled a black leather jacket over her shoulders and a pair of combat boots. She was sure this wasn't exactly the style her father expected her to take, but it was comfortable - and she felt kind of cool. Like a character from her books. She looked to Agatha and nodded. “I won't say anything... I think my father takes me to be a fool, but I spent my entire life learning, knowledge is my power.” She smiled weakly and then followed Agatha.
She was lead into the office, to which she entered and watched as Agatha knelt down. She bit her lip slightly and stared to this man. He had grey hair on his his head - short and trimmed, with a neat goatee.
Melani sucked in a breath and she smiled weakly. “Your voice - it’s Jekyl” she tilted her head. She knew to act the part. It was evident that this man was sneaky, so she had to play him equally as so.
“Ah... yes” he smiled and placed both hands on her shoulder. “I imprinted my voice - so in some way... I’d be with you...” He pulled her into a huge then.
Melani didn’t even know what to do. She awkwardly wrapped her arms around him. This was her first hug - ever. And she didn’t care for it. It was awkward, uncomfortable. It could be him, or the fact that she didn't quite understand it. “Ahem..” She cleaned her throat. “I see...” She stepped back and glanced around the room briefly. No pictures.
“What... happened, why was I in there all alone?” She questioned.
“When you were a baby - you got sick, real sick. We didn’t think you were going to make it - we had to seal you in that room - to make sure none of us caught it. We only had enough medication for just you. A month passed - you were almost ready to come out - but the vault became compromised, and we were attacked by flesh-eating Ghouls... There were too many - so we all ran. We lured them all out. From a distance I programmed the vault to close again, to protect you. You were too young to bring out into this world, sickly, and “ he began to tear up. He sat down on the chair and sighed deeply. “I wanted to go back for you.. but that was the best we could do. So I had to wait 25 years to finally see you” he shook his head. “So much has happened.”
Melani pulled her brows together and then she let out a deep sigh. “That sounds... terrible...” She whispered.
“Not as terrible as you growing up alone...” He lowered his head. “I want to give the rest of my life to make it up to you - I worked hard to rise up, to rebuild the world, to make sure that when you came out - this place was safe, and you could live happily... that has been my driving goal” he smiled then.
“I know it has only been just a few days... but soon you will feel at home. This place... it is all yours” he then pulled out a card and set it on the table. “This too” he smiled.
“Do I.. have any other family? A mother? A sister? A brother?” She questioned.
Victor lowered his head once more. “No...both... died. This world... it was so terrible... I barely made it alive... Your mother, your sister...” He let out a long sigh. “Lets... not dwell on that, hm? This is now” he nodded. “You should relax, eat, enjoy all of this. Everyone here is here to help you - all you need to do is ask... But let’s do lunch tomorrow, hm?”
“Okay...Lunch” she stepped forward and took the card.
“Money” he smiled “In card format, at least” he chuckled.
“I... have never been outside much... as you know. I saw this bar coming in - do you think I could... go out?” She questioned, fidgeting with the card.
“Be careful with bars darling, there are people out there that can’t be trusted... I know the Iron Wolf is trustworthy, you should go to that one. But whatever you do.. do not go to Old Granger Saloon, that place is crawling with very cruel people...” He gave a concerned look.
“Okay, I won't...” She smiled.
“Here” he lifted his arm and punched in a code. A series of contacts transferred over to her band. “If you need an escort - just call...” He then lifted up a bit of his paper work and continued to read..
Melani smiled and nodded. “Alright... Lunch then.”
Victor lifted his gaze and smiled in return.
She slipped away and rode the elevator back down. It was easier than she expected... She made her way down the road, her eyes glancing about - watching if anyone followed her. She pulled her band up and accessed the backend, where she wrote a series of code. She clicked on one - it would fake her GPS. She was standing next to the Iron Wolf - her ping would say she was here... She then slipped down the alley way until she spotted the busy street infant of the Saloon.
She made her way inside, where she noticed Hugo. “Hugo, what are you doing here?” She questioned.
Hugo turned and then chuckled. “I should be asking you that, young lady. You know your father would not take a liking to you being in his most hated bar” he chuckled.
“Same for you, I would assume...” She chuckled. “Buy me a drink?” She questioned.
“Ah... I would never deny you that, m’lady. Get her a Strawberry Blaze” he hollered to the bartender, who nodded and began to mix it. Within seconds Melani had a pink colored drink with a strawberry on the edge.
“Thank you” she sipped on it. At first the taste was strong and hard to take, but then the sweetness came. “Oh...” She shrugged and took another sip. “Agatha told me to meet her here...” She looked to Hugo.
Hugo smirked and finished his ale. “Yeah, you’re about to see her shortly” he looked to the barkeep and pointed to his chin. “Looks like you got a good smack-a-roo” he chuckled. “That frenzied silver-haired young’n must have done that..” He chuckled. “Let Agatha know that Melani is here, and I have some business to discuss with her...We will wait all night if we have to. But can’t say how many drinks I’ll have till then” he chuckled and lifted his empty glass.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2018 21:33:34 GMT -5
The bartender scowled slightly and raised a brow as he looked to Melani. He chuckled then and leaned forward. “You know, I got this bruise talking about you?” He watched her, “You don’t seem like you have the devil’s blood in you.”
“Charlie.” Agatha’s voice spoke as she came from the back room. “Do be kind to our guest, will you?” She chuckled, “Before you get a few more punches.” She winked then. “Melani, I’m glad you came. Hugo.” She raised a brow at him. “I’m surprised to see you, but, I am glad to see you at the same time.” She waved the two into the back room where they made their way over to a false wall that pushed away and led them down into the basement of the building. “Your father hates my bar you know? It’s too busy for him.” She pushed a door open.
Jules looked up from the table she was sitting at with Peter. “Melani.” She smiled, “Good to see you made it back out of that tower...”
Peter stood and offered his chair up to Melani. “I’m Peter, Agatha’s brother, second lead scientist Foxtran Corporations.”
Hugo chuckled as he tossed his head back and drank from his flask. “All this, right under Victor’s nose eh?”
Agatha smiled as she bumped his flask playfully, “Of course, Hugo, why not? In the end taking him down will be so much more of an achievement...to see the look in his eyes when everyone turns against him.” Agatha then stepped to her glass and sat down at the table, she had a pink drink of her own. “So, you’ve met your father....” She watched Melani, “And....you’re here, so I imagine you can see through his mask. Jules told me she told you a few things. I’ve been dealing with this man the past 15 years, I started working for him as soon as I could so that I could get intel and learn...and the things I have learned.” She shook her head and sighed.
Hugo leaned against the wall his arms crossed, “So what story has he given you, doll?” He asked, “What the hell did they do to you in that vault? He was let out 20 years ago...there isn’t anything on why he left the vault or how...”
Agatha took in a breath. “First...how much has your father told you? Do you have any questions?”
Jules glanced to Melani her brows pulled together slightly. She took in a sharp breath and winced, her eyes began to glow. “Ags....” She curled forward slightly. “Agatha...” She gripped her wrist.
Agatha moved quickly, “What’s happening Jules?” She questioned as she quickly clicked at the gauntlet causing it to release. She tugged the glove from Jules’ wrist and looked to the bracelet it had a red glow to it. She tucked her brows together. “Melani...Jules told me you created these...what is this thing doing?” She stared into Jules’ glowing eyes.
Jules whimpered slightly, she gasped for air. Jolts of electricity were racing through her muscles. She jerked slightly as she gripped onto Agatha’s arm, tears rolled over her cheeks.
**
Victor stood with his arms crossed in a room full of computers. “Any luck finding the girl?” He questioned. “We were so close to getting enough power to use our new weapon.” He grinned. “I need her, do you hear me?” He snapped at the man that typed quickly on the keyboard.
“I haven’t been able to find her, if she’s out in the open, she’s on her knees right now, I’m pushing everything I can, she’ll be unconscious any second.” He pointed to the screen, “Look at her vitals.” He shook his head. “I don’t know how she’s fighting against this.”
Victor sneered slightly, he reached forward and turned the dial the rest of the way to the right. “Don’t hold back with this one, get Hugo on this, he’ll find her.” He snapped as he walked from the room.
**
“Hugo.” A voice came from his wrist. Hugo took in a breath as he looked to Jules whom had fallen forward from her chair, Agatha caught her and pulled her over to the couch. “Hugo are you there man?”
Hugo lifted his hand up, “Yes, yes, what is it?” He questioned.
“Mr. Foxtran wants you to find a Mage. She might be in Aeradenn. Her name is Jules Brisco, I am sending you over information now. He just had me initiate a massive attack on her from her bracelet, if you see anyone just laying on the ground, I can almost guarantee its her, if she’s even alive after that...”
Hugo stared to Jules a moment, “Copy, I'll find her.” He lowered his arm and let out a long sigh. “Is she breathing?” He questioned.
Agatha nodded, “Barely...what the hell did they do?” She glanced to Melani. “What do you need to remove them? I’ve tried everything...” She shook her head. “Can you keep that from happening? Jules can’t help us if she’s dead...” She glanced to Jules whom was unconscious, her body tensed and loosened as shockwaves continued to pulse through her body.
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