The Nexus. The Black Dog. Lucky Shmucks.
((We all know the drill by now. Rachel gets dragged into the Nexus, yells a little, cries, and gets a hug.))
~~~~
Black Dog: *jumping and full of music and the soft hum of conversation. On the stage two beautiful little Cybertronian femmes are doing an acrobatic dance in time to the moving lights in their own shells*
Rachel: *enters, having actually found her own way this time, and looking only mildly annoyed. Sees the dance and leans on the wall to watch appreciatively*
purple eyed twin: *floats up into the air and spins, lilac and silver lights streaking around beneath her translucent skin*
golden eyed twin: *weaves a perfect counterpoint around her sister, her lights a deep rose*
deep, but still very quiet male voice: *from behind Rachel's shoulder* They're always so amazing.
Rachel: *small start at the voice, will get up from the wall and look behind her*
man: *steps back in slight alarm as Rachel moves, gentle, dark, human eyes looking out of place in a scaled and horned face that doesn't look very human at all* *quietly* Sorry.
Rachel: *split-second of a dubious look, then sees the eyes and shakes her head at herself* No, don't be. I'm still not quite used to this place.
man: *his eyes smile, though his face remains grave* It takes some getting used to. Even for someone like me. And I was born here. *moves a set of leathery wings as he glances back toward the dancers*
Rachel: *curious now as she looks back to the dancers* I thought people only moved here?
man: *blinks and looks down at her* No. There are a lot of people born here. Some are even born the normal way, instead of being Impossible Nexus Kids.
Rachel: *eyebrow raise* I don't even wanna know how that last thing works. *the snicker is suppressed, you can't prove it!*
man: *gravely* My parents sat on a couch together.
Rachel: O.o ..... *mouth opens to say something, but she thinks better of it* *trying SO hard not to laugh* … *goes back to watching the dancers*
man: *eyes twinkling again* At least Mom didn't drink from the baby fountain. *also turns his attention back as the twins start a bouncing, back kicking, aerobic piece accompanied by lights the color of their optics*
Rachel: *can't help it now, starts a snickerfit*
man: *that would be a very boyish smirk if it were on a normal human face*
Rachel: *deep sigh as the laughs fade* I'll never understand this place... *idly wonders if she could dance like that*
man: I don't think anyone does. *glances at her* ...Human?
Rachel: *leans back on a nearby table, good-natured smile on her face* Close, Mutant. You?
man: Mutant and Gargoyle.
Rachel: *takes a second to look him over, then extends a hand* I'm Rachel.
man: *big, clawed hand presses hers so gently* Scott.
Rachel: *head tilt* ...Summers?
Scott: Nooo, but I'm named after him.
Rachel: Ah. *nods, then comments idly* Seems like every time I come here, that name comes up...
Scott: The Nexus is good at that. *glances back toward the stage as the music comes to an end, and then whistles softly* That is so pretty.
Rachel: *claps* Yeah, that takes skill. *sounds like she speaks from experience*
Scott: Yeah, but they were born for it, too. *sighs as he watches the pretty dancers get scooped into the arms of a pair of identical purple and gold mechs of the TFA tech*
Rachel: *muses, poking at the big construction-paper M on her shirt which seems to need more tape*
Scott: *curious look at the rustle* You work with kids?
Rachel: *chuckle* No. It's just my own personal revolution, I guess... *brows knit as she pokes it some more*
Scott: *glances at what Rachel's leaning against and lifts his brow ridges, then leans over to see just whose foot that is* *sheepish smirk at the chuckle that comes from above*
Rachel: o.o *very... slowly... moves... away...*
Scott: There are some tables our size over there under the fake mountain with the bonsai on it. *wings spread just a bit, despite the fact that the Transformer whose foot had become a table doesn't seem bothered by the fact*
Rachel: *clearly embarassed for bothering the giant robot* Yeah, let's go over there.
Scott: *will walk beside her, shaking his head slightly* I'm starting to think I was nuts to move here.
Rachel: *chuckle* You might be right. Where'd you live before?
Scott: Port Aux Basques Newfoundland. *checks the cave, and then moves toward the lone empty table at the back*
Rachel: Wow, I have no idea where that is. Except north. *will sit after double-checking it's actually a table this time*
Scott: Well, I could give you the exact coordinates, but in the reality where my parents live Newfoundland's had a few changes from the norm. *settles carefully, listening to the chair creak for a few moments before turning his attention back to Rachel*
Rachel: *waves him off* Nah, it's fine. *attention grabbed by the creaking, she can't help but notice his wings* So what's it like? Having wings?
Scott: *glances at them, then down at his tail* What's it like not having them?
Rachel: *snerk* Well, I was the only one on my team who couldn't fly.
Scott: Ouch. I... actually can't fly. Too heavy. I just glide. *glances up as Archiva hunkers down to check for orders*
Rachel: Hm. Still, that's totally useful. *blinks at the waitressbot* Um... I forgot what's on the menu...
Archiva: *smiles* Food or drink?
Rachel: Um... *glances at Scott* Both?
Scott: *shakes his head* Nothing for me. Well, water with lemon?
Rachel: Yeah, I'll have water too. I'll decide on food in a bit.
Archiva: Alright. *soft chuckle* Do you want bubbles in it?
Rachel: *what? why?* Um, no?
Archiva: Okay, no natural Perrier. *reassuring look*
Rachel: "Perrier"? Heh I couldn't afford that anyway.
lady at the next table: It costs the same as the plain stuff here.
Rachel: Oh. ....Wait, water costs money here?
Scott: Nope. *eyes twinkle* The sparkling water's natural spring water from some virgin planet.
Rachel: Oh. Well... huh.
Scott: *leans back slightly in his chair, and then looks up as big feet walk past behind the waitress. Because of the table being in the little cave the feet are all that can be seen of the big bot*
Rachel: I guess I'll have water then. No bubbles. *remembers something* Oh! Do you have... *hopeful* ...cheesesteaks here?
Archiva: Cheese steak?
Rachel: It's a sandwich... Heh never mind. I'll just have a pastrami sandwich then.
Archiva: No. Please describe cheese steak. Our cook can make nearly anything.
Rachel: Oh! Well, it's pretty much sliced steak, cheese, and onions on a roll.
youthful voice from behind Archiva's foot: Vhat kind of roll? Rye? Vheat? Vhat sort of cheese? Und you know ve use dinosaur steak here, ja?
Scott: *quiet chuckle as Archiva looks for the speaker*
Rachel: *quirks an eyebrow and looks for the questioner as well*
small black girl with cardinal red hair and eyes: *peeks around Archiva's leg, long slender ears perked quizzically*
Rachel: *amused smile at the girl with tar-black skin* Well, I usually use french bread or whatever I can get at the store. Provolone cheese is the best. And... *blink* Did you say dino steak? O.o
girl: Ja. *comes out from behind the waitress, exposing the fact that her feet are paw-like and digigrade, and that that red hair is tucked under a hair net* Apatosaur.
Rachel: Well! *glances to Scott as if to say "Well how about that!"* I guess that's ok. Everything else here has been delicious.
girl: *grins* Danke. *tilts head thoughtfully, and then turns and vanishes into Archiva's shadow. Is soon back with a plate holding a couple small pieces of bread* Sourdough onion, und pale rye vith a touch of anchovy.
Rachel: *points to the white bread* That one. *suddenly thinks of something* ....Are you the cook?
girl: Ja. My name ist Hrafni. *ears twitch as her eyes twinkle with a smile that doesn't show on her face. Looks all of eight years old*
Rachel: *small smile as she answers* Have fun with that. And let me know if you need help.
Hrafni: *laughs softly* I think I can make a sandvich you'll like. Ah... how do you eat your steak? Und do you vant sauce on it?
Rachel: Ah, medium-well is good. And no sauce. *goodness, she hadn't thought about all these details before!*
Hrafni: Okay. *ears twitch again, and then she turns to go back into the shadow. As she goes Rachel will be able to see that she's also got a tail covered with soft red hair, and that besides her cook's apron the only clothing she's wearing is a pair of lovingly worn denim shorts with kittens and flowers embroidered on the pockets*
Archiva: *watches her go, and then smiles at Rachel* She's the second bartender's daughter.
Rachel: *smiles* She's adorable.
Scott: Schattenfeen, right?
Archiva: *nods* Yes. She just had her sixty sixth birthday yesterday.
Scott: *smiles, though he's careful to keep his mouth shut as he does it*
Rachel: *shakes head and smiles to herself* This place surprises me every time I come here.
Scott: *rumble of a chuckle as Archiva smiles and goes to tend another table* Wait till you see an adult Schattenfae.
Rachel: Still not as weird as the blanket-kid.
Scott: Blanket kid?
Rachel: Get this: lady brings me a bundle right? Says to hold 'im. I peek inside, and there's no "him"!
Scott: ...Wait. Furry, purring blanket?
Rachel: Loves it when you laugh.
Scott: *chuckles again* Where did you see a Namarri baby?
Rachel: *laughs along with him* It was a couple months ago. I stayed in the Valley of the Queens for a while.
Scott: *perks* Been awhile since I've gone there. Which baby was it?
Rachel: Ah... I can't remember the name, sorry.
Scott: Was it Nn'larion?
Rachel: *squints, trying to remember* No... but it was something like that.
Scott: Right. Nn'larion's running around now. I remember his mom was excited because he'd figured out how to make real eyes.
Rachel: O.o *mental flash of not-so-real and definitely creepy eyes* Yeah, that's good.
Scott: He kind of looked like a stuffed toy with black shoe button eyes before that. *looks up as Archiva returns and sets down their water and a basket of small squares of toasted crispy bread*
Rachel: *thanks the waitress heartily before turning back to Scott* While equally as cute as the blanket, that's a bit more creepy. ....Actually the thought of a moving blanket is pretty creepy too, now that I think of it.
Scott: *chuckles as he squishes his piece of lemon* I've never been able to understand that reasoning, but then my parents are a gargoyle and a giant scaly guy with horns.
Rachel: *grabs a piece of bread* See big scaly things are supposed to move around. But inanimate objects aren't. You ever see "Chuckie"?
Scott: No. My dad said the dolls were perverts.
Rachel: *snicker* Well it's a horror movie. The only thing it has more of than jump-scares is sex.
Scott: *makes a face* But I actually know a couple living dolls.
Rachel: *stopped mid-nom* Oh... Yeah, that could be awkward...
Scott: *nods over to where the waiter in the dress is laughing at something with the little bot that sits on his shoulders... and who is now taller and has a face* Mal there, the girl on Scattershot's shoulders. Her old body was a doll.
Rachel: *follows his gaze* Oh, I think I remember them. *muses* Can anybody change just like that in this place?
Scott: Just like that? *sniffs at the lemon skin, his eyes focused quizzically on the red-head's face*
Rachel: I mean, like get a whole new body. *sips water*
Scott: Well, there are shape shifters.
Rachel: Then there are robots who can just go get an overhaul. How do you remember who's who?
Scott: Well, I can smell who's who. But I've seen some people have to reintroduce themselves to friends.
Rachel: *small grimace* That's one of the reasons I don't like this place.
Scott: *tilts his head questioningly*
Rachel: *smiles and shakes her head* Also because it has a habit of kidnapping me and trying to solve my problems.
Scott: *chuckles* It solved my biggest problem. *pauses and thinks* Well. God did, but He used the Nexus.
Rachel: Oh it solves my problems wonderfully. I just wish the solutions didn't involve things I can't ever tell anyone back home for fear of ending up in a nuthouse.
Scott: Ahhh. Yeah, I never had that problem. A pair of Guardian Fae changelings were my godparents, and I grew up talking to the things down the well and in the forest and ocean.
Rachel: *chuckles hollowly as she grabs more bread* Just once I'd like to meet someone normal here. ...No offense.
Scott: For Newfoundland in that reality, that was normal. *looks around thoughtfully* But plain flatscan standard people don't really need a place like this.
Rachel: *frown* I guess not... *pokes at the paper M on her shirt again and makes a mental note to find tape as soon as possible*
blue and red sparkles: *form on the table, swirl around, and leave behind a good brand of two sided clear tape*
Scott: *looks at it, and then looks toward the opening of the cave with interest*
Rachel: *blinks and follows Scott's gaze*
Scott: I don't see him. *shakes head and looks back at the tape* Did you wish?
Rachel: *looks back at him, confused* Um... no? I don't think so?
Scott: Huh, well, he'll answer questions before you ask them sometimes, too.
Rachel: *even more confused* Who?
Scott: His name's Optimus. He's one of the local Guardian Fae, and also one of the people that sells goodies to this place.
Rachel: Oh. *takes the tape and replies to the air* Thanks, I guess?
Scott: *slight start* He says you're welcome.
Rachel: o.o .... *not sure what to say, goes to retape the M*
Scott: He didn't want to say it to you because some people are sensitive about head talk.
Rachel: *slightly embarrassed, doesn't look up* I figured. But I'm sorry you had to be the one who got startled...
Scott: *snerks* I'm telepathic myself. I just hadn't expected the little telekinetic poke he gave me first to ask permission to talk.
Rachel: *can joke about that, and that makes her feel better enough to look at him again* Wow, you're big, strong, can fly, and you're telepathic? You really got the good end of the X-gene, didn't you?
Scott: *blinks* *wry humour* Have you looked at me lately?
Rachel: *wry smirk* Didn't you say guardian fae were normal for your world?
Scott: No. I said I had a couple changelings for godparents. They picked up the change in the Nexus.
Rachel: Oh. *tone becomes serious* Are you persecuted at home?
Scott: Nah. I've given a few people nightmares, though.
Rachel: *waits to gauge if that's a good thing or a bad thing*
Scott: *looks at his lemon rind* Part of why I moved here. The reality's already got Dad. It doesn't really need two friendly bumps in the night.
Rachel: What about your dad? How's he being treated?
Scott: *chuckles* The people he works with are used to him. Everyone else usually greets him with a shriek, or an 'Oh ##@$@#!'. Then they realize he's a person and apologize.
Rachel: *reassuring smile* Why don't you make a place for yourself like he did?
Scott: I have. It's here. *eyes twinkling again*
Rachel: *chuckles, looking around* Yeah, but it's easier here.
Scott: Yeah. *shrugs* Dad's pretty unflappable nowadays. But I've got Mom's temper.
Rachel: Oh. Yeah, I know how that is. *glances at the wall and rubs the back of her neck*
Scott: *looks slightly amused* And our feelings stick out where they can get stepped on.
Rachel: Well it's not like anyone here tries to piss you off. This is the chillest place I've ever seen.
Scott: *suddenly laughing* Actually... *laughs some more* You just haven't met them yet.
Rachel: *eyebrow raise* Oh %(*#$. *starts chuckling*
Scott: Mal was one of them, before she got Scattershot. Her sister Vi's even worse when it comes to trying to press random customer buttons, though. And then we've got a guy named Rattrap that comes through here sometimes.
Rachel: *thinky face* Does he get chased around by a little dino bot?
Scott: When he's here. *chuckles* Unless Dinobot decides to just let Rattrap's wife do the chasing.
Rachel: *snicker*
Scott: So you've seen Rattrap?
Rachel: No, just the little dino guy. He went off chasing a Rattrap though.
Scott: Ah. Well, Rattrap's a Maximal. He turns into a metal rat with wheels and an amped up engine. His wife, Rumor, turns into this fluffy little cat.
Rachel: *shakes head and chuckles* A rat with wheels? Seriously?
Scott: Seriously. *sniffs his lemon again and then stirs his water*
Rachel: You can eat that. It won't gross me out.
Scott: *looks up* Well, actually I can't. I just like the scent. *chuckles* But there's yours.
Archiva: *back and setting good smelling plate on table. Plate holds sammich, a huge heap of fries, and some mixed baby greens salad*
Rachel: Mmmm! *rubs hands together and smells the meaty goodness*
Archiva: Do you want any dressing for your fries or salad?
Rachel: Ranch dressing, please.
Archiva: *pulls a little ceramic container out of a storage compartment and sets it down, then takes the cover off easily despite the size of her hands*
Rachel: Oh, thank you! *glances over at Scott* Are you going to eat?
Scott: *shakes his head* Go on. I'm good.
Rachel: You sure? I'm gonna feel bad eating in front of you.
Scott: Don't. My dad passed on some of his psuedoreptilian physiology. I can't eat anything that's really acceptable at the table.
Rachel: *grimace* Well now I can't fix it, and that makes me feel worse.
Scott: *gently kicks her under the table* Eat eat eat. *totally being silly*
Rachel: *holds up hands and smiles* Ok, ok! *digs in*
Scott: *grin* *and then remembers himself and slaps a hand in front of his mouth to hide the teeth*
Rachel: *snickers and covers her mouth daintily to hide the food* Hey now, don't do that for me.
Scott: *blows bubbles in his water, and then looks up* Do what for you?
Rachel: *swallows* Hide yourself. You shouldn't be ashamed of yourself like that. And before you say "some people are put off by big pointy predator teeth," I appreciate the politeness but I'm not one of them.
Scott: Ohh. Actually, some people are put off by open mouths. I'm working with them right now.
Rachel: Ah. Still, you can relax around me. I don't bite. *mischievous smirk as she takes another bite of sandwich*
Scott: *looks at his arm* You'd hurt your teeth.
Rachel: *snickers, then gazes at the cheesesteak* Mmm, this is good.
Scott: I hear things made from scratch usually are. Especially when made by a rabid gourmet chef.
Rachel: We could get you some rare steak, you know.
Scott: I know. But I just ate the day before yesterday. *more water bubbles*
Rachel: o.O You don't have to eat every day? *sounds a bit jealous*
Scott: Nope. More often than Dad does, though.
Rachel: Oh right, reptile. *nods*
Scott: Well, Dad's got other things going too. *slight frown* Have you ever heard of a guy called 'Mr. Sinister'?
Rachel: *coughs and swallows* Who hasn't?
Scott: Dad was the product of one version of him's experiments.
Rachel: *grimace* I hope he wasn't... I mean, was he somebody else before that?
Scott: No, he was born in the lab. And if Sinister had had his way Dad would never have been somebody. He wasn't supposed to be anything but a mindless living weapon.
Rachel: *frowns for a second, then tries to smile* I'm glad he's your dad.
Scott: Hey, this is crumby lunch conversation. *quirks a brow ridge, eyes twinkling again*
Rachel: *laughs* I guess I'm getting better at that then?
female voice from somewhere above: What do you expect from a crumb?
Scott: Shut up, Vi. *chuckles* What do you mean? I'm the one that brought it up.
Rachel: *shoots a small glare at the ceiling before waving Scott off* I've been feeling bad at reassuring people lately, I've... *tone shifts to serious again* I've kinda got a little "mutants anonymous" group going. It just landed in my lap.
Scott: *sits up, ignoring the gleeful razz from above* Yeah?
Rachel: That's what this M is about actually. I decided to stop hiding the fact that I'm a mutant even though I can. *shakes her head* Among all the publicity people started showing up asking for advice...
Scott: *sudden grin, and then pushes back from the table a bit to dig through one of the cargo pockets on his utilikilt*
Scott: Here we go. *straightens up and offers her a one inch pinback button of a yellow circle with an X in it*
Rachel: Oh. Thanks but... *apologetic look* I really didn't want to tie myself to the X-men. That's why I chose "M."
Scott: ...This isn't the X-men logo. It's an X gene awareness button.
Rachel: *tries to hide the wince as she explains further* Where I come from anything with an X tends to get lumped in with them. And they... don't have the best reputation. I wanted a symbol all mutants could get behind. Do you understand?
Scott: *nods as he puts it away, though he's surprised* Sure. Sorry.
Rachel: *pats his hand warmly--quite literally--and smiles* Thanks though. I mean it.
Scott: *slight chuckle* The X gene movement's pretty strong where my parents live. I don't think they ever had X-men, though I know of a few rogue wizards running around now and then. And fairy things on the Rock.
Rachel: *now interested* No X-men at all?
Scott: *shakes his head* The X gene was just another quirk. Oh, there were a few laws about it. But they were mostly of the sort that said nobody over three hundred pounds or seven foot tall could ride the bus, and nobody could ride on the roof.
Rachel: *chuckles* Sounds like a lot better place...
Scott: Well. I don't know. We had our bloody history too. Blew Newfoundland right out of the reality it started in.
Rachel: *sobered* Oh. How- *shakes head* Nevermind, I don't think I wanna know.
Scott: It was a long story. And the wizards' fault, not the X's. Though the lady that caused it actually was both.
Rachel: My X-men have been around for a long while. The people haven't always understood their motives, but they're good people. *smiles to herself*
Scott: *grins, and there are the teeth* Sounds normal.
Rachel: *wry snerk* There've been more than a few mutant secessionist colonies wiped off the map. Sometimes not so accidentally.
Scott: *grin vanishes and he cocks his head slightly* Mutant secessionist?
Rachel: Groups calling for their own country, escaping persecution. It's a great idea. *sighs* But the only ones who can pull it off usually have some other motive.
Scott: Ahh. Like Charlie's people have.
Rachel: *looks up inquisitively, picking up a fry to munch* Who's Charlie?
Scott: The guy that brought people back to the Valley of the Queens, among other things. Charles Scott Summers.
Rachel: Oh! *smiles* I'm glad they could do it. That place is great.
Scott: *nods* You should see Haven 3.
Rachel: *munches another fry* Where's that?
Scott: On another world, like New Haven. Only it's completely different from the Valley. Virgin world.
Rachel: Like barren desert virgin or untamed jungle virgin?
Scott: It's an untouched world, but it's not a desert or a jungle. *grinning again, his expression absent*
Rachel: *smirks* You live there, don't you?
Scott: Nah. I live in the Nexus. Haven 3's just a pretty place.
Rachel: You should retire there someday. *scarfs the last of her cheesesteak*
Scott: *shakes his head* No. I think I'll stick with living in the Nexus. I get more out of life this way.
Rachel: *chuckles* I could never stay here, but it just keeps bringing me back.
Scott: It's not that bad. There are quiet residential neighborhoods. I own a fairly normal two story condo. *grin* With a nice soft bed. *clearly not meaning anything bad by the comment. He's just happy about that bed*
Rachel: *laughs at his happiness, then sobers again* I dunno, it's the principle of the thing. This place plucks people out of their normal lives and chucks 'em into... well, this. *gestures around the bar*
Scott: Actually, most people who come here regularly need to escape from their normal lives for a time, or go nuts. And for some it's the only safe haven they have. *nods toward a Transformer couple* See those two?
Rachel: *looks over* Yeah?
Scott: The lady's a medic in Megatron's army. Forbidden to bond. Her husband's an Exile. *pauses and looks at her* Do you know what that means?
Rachel: *eyes narrow with sadness* Yes, I do.
Scott: Charlie snatched him just before he died, and brought him here. Now that she's been located she can come here and be with him.
Rachel: ....So he was supposed to die?
Scott: Primus was alright with sending him back. *slight grin*
Rachel: *raises an eyebrow: Who's Primus?
Scott: The first Transformer. They say that all the others' sparks are made from his, and when they die they all go back to him to wait till God remakes everything.
Rachel: Oh. ....Well it still wasn't supposed to happen.
Scott: He had unfinished business. But anyway. You see what I mean?
Rachel: No. Everybody has unfinished business. You can't just send people back.
Scott: *slight frown* If he wasn't supposed to be here, he wouldn't be.
Rachel: *annoyed grunt* Well why him then? Why does he get to be lucky?
Scott: *frown deepens* Maybe we should change the subject.
Rachel: No. You know, I was indifferent to this place for a while, but now I remember why I hate it. So I wanna hear your argument. Tell me the whole idea isn't just... playing favorites. *wrists and ankles begin to heat up, though her voice hasn't raised yet*
Scott: How is being left in the cruddy mortal world being a favorite? *breathing deeply and evenly to keep his temper in check*
Rachel: Oh, you have a cruddy "mortal" life? Boo hoo! So does everybody else! You know what "mortal" people do when crap happens? They deal with it. Instead of getting whisked away to some magical place where they get everything they want!
Scott: *breathing checks as the frown goes to slight confusion, and then to annoyance* Either you've got some issue, or you didn't hear anything I said about those two.
Rachel: I heard you. *tone turns mocking* She's in a horrible place and her boyfriend died. *growls* Do you know how many people I just described? That Primus guy obviously didn't save all of them! *clenches fists* Why didn't he take them out of their horrible places? Where was he when MY BOYFRIEND DIED?!
Scott: …
Rachel: *eyes widen* ........ *sits back in her seat*
Scott: *softly* Primus can't help with things like that. *more quietly* Though he'd probably love to. He's... not a bad guy, though he sucks at poker.
Rachel: *that line earns a chuckle as she begins curling up and smoothing her hair* Primus is stupid. *is joking, only talking to keep from crying*
Scott: He's just a created being. Hey... do you want a hug?
Rachel: *shakes head, keeps babbling* This always happens when I come here... get worked up... piss people off... end up crying...
Scott: *looks out of the cave, and then looks back at her* Sounds like you need it. And that hug is going to happen. Have you met Pooka before?
fuzzy big Maximal baby: *worried blue optics on Rachel* I saw you before.
Rachel: *shaking her head limply at Scott's question, she is surprised by the small voice* *looks up at it, tears welling in her eyes*
Pooka: *scoots over. Is probably taller than Rachel, but is clearly a little child. Also warm, and cuddly as he puts his arms around her gently*
Rachel: *lets him hug her as she limply wraps her arms around him* This always happens too...
Pooka: Um. No. I didn't hug you before.
Scott: *can't the soft chuckle that escapes*
Rachel: *lets out chuckling sobs into Pooka's warm fur for a while*
Pooka: *cuddle love* If huggin' a puppy would be better, I can do that too.
Rachel: *gives a small squeeze to let him know he's fine just the way he is*
Pooka: *happy little puppy sound as he nuzzles her hair*
Rachel: *after a while she sits back up rubbing her nose and sniffling* I'm sorry guys. When I get worked up I say stupid things... But thank you.
Pooka: *pat pats and offers her a piece of paper that's been rumpled till it's soft*
Scott: *just watching. He's praying too, but that doesn't show*
Rachel: *blinks and takes the paper* What's this?
Pooka: Snot rag.
Scott: *facepalm*
Rachel: .... *suddenly feels bad and begins wiping off Pooka's fur*
Pooka: *very surprised sparklet* I meant for your nose?
Rachel: *chuckle sniffle* I can handle my own snot.
Pooka: Oh. *little purry chuckle* Are you feeling better?
Rachel: *sighs, still not so sure she likes the Nexus. But she does feel better* *small smile to both of them* Yeah.
Scott: *quietly* Do you want me to see if I can find him?
Rachel: *looks down* No. He... He wouldn't want to see me again. *pained expression* I'm the one who killed him...
Pooka: Did he hate you before he died?
Rachel: *looks like she might cry again* No...
Pooka: Was he bein' a dumbaft jerk 'n tryin' to kill lotsa people?
Rachel: *brows knit* No! No, it was an accident, but that's not important.
Scott: *softly* Then if he was somewhere in the Timestream, and not gone, I don't think he'd hate you. *not saying it like he wants to go for sure and get the guy, just speaking in reassurance*
Rachel: *smiling into space* I hope so. I just hope he's in a better place now. *resigned herself long ago to bury that hatchet*
Pooka: *quietly* Unca Scott can go look and see if he's there. Maybe we can find him long enough for a hug?
Scott: I don't know, Pooka. Don't get your hopes up. I think if he was there we'd have been told already.
Rachel: *squeezes Pooka's shoulder* No, no, that's fine. I've moved on. *perhaps a change of subject?* You know, I don't remember you at all. Where did you see me before?
Pooka: Here. You've been here a couple times.
Rachel: I guess I just never noticed you. Sorry. *smiles* You're a good hugger.
Pooka: *grins* I'm a baby. Babies're good at that. So're puppies.
Rachel: *chuckles* Then you're doubly good!
Pooka: ^_^
Scott: *chuckles*
Rachel: Well I think I've taken up enough of your time. I should be getting home. *stands up and dusts herself off*
Pooka: *grins and steps back, then transforms to a massive black Malamute with white paws and white star on his forehead* *pauses* Scott, can you get me some of those cherries?
Scott: Sure, but we'll have to wait till tonight.
Pooka: Okay! Don't want you to get stuck in a rock. *gentle slurp for Rachel, and then runs out of the cave, wagging*
Rachel: *laughs and waves Pooka off before turning back to Scott* Sorry again that I yelled at you.
Scott: *shrugs, his wings flexing with the gesture* Don't worry about it. Just...
Pooka: *peeks back in* Primus says he's sorry.
Scott: o.O
Rachel: *blink*
Pooka: He says he wishes he could do more stuff, but he's not God. He's just the guy that made us Transformers. *ducks his head a bit, then looks up again* But he says that he'd give you a hug if he wasn't too big.
Rachel: *sad appreciative smile* Could you tell him I don't hate him? Or anyone's god. I was just mad.
Pooka: Um. He's not a god. He's just a big guy. But I'll tell him. *darts over and slurps her cheek, and then scoots*
Scott: *offers napkin*
Rachel: *takes the napkin and wipes off, then leaves a few dollars on the table* It was nice meeting you, Scott.
Scott: I already paid. *slight grin* Yeah. Sorry about all that.
Rachel: *grimace/pout* That always happens when I come here too! Can't I pay for my own meals?! *laughs*
Scott: *laughs too* My Aunt Sal would skin my scaly rear if I tried being that kind of ungentleman.
Rachel: *shakes head, smiling* Not letting women be useful is just as ungentlemanly, you know.
Scott: Just let me enjoy the chance to buy something for somebody for once. *rises and stretches, his wings spreading and tail curling as he groans softly*
Rachel: Fine. *puts money back in wallet* If there's a next time, which there probably will be... *rolls eyes* I'm buying your food.
Scott: *thinks about that and winces* I'll let you get me some sashimi.
Rachel: *points and smiles at him sidelong* I make good sashimi.
Scott: *grins* I'll remember that. Though I don't have a kitchen.
Rachel: *shrugs* I'm sure somebody'll let me borrow theirs. *hefts purse onto shoulder and extends a hand* So long.
Scott: *big, warm hand envelopes hers gently* God bless.
Rachel: *smiles warmly at him, then leaves the Black Dog to call up Logan and get a lift back to her own reality before her meeting*
((Written by ssjmihoshi and random_xtras.))
~~~~
Black Dog: *jumping and full of music and the soft hum of conversation. On the stage two beautiful little Cybertronian femmes are doing an acrobatic dance in time to the moving lights in their own shells*
Rachel: *enters, having actually found her own way this time, and looking only mildly annoyed. Sees the dance and leans on the wall to watch appreciatively*
purple eyed twin: *floats up into the air and spins, lilac and silver lights streaking around beneath her translucent skin*
golden eyed twin: *weaves a perfect counterpoint around her sister, her lights a deep rose*
deep, but still very quiet male voice: *from behind Rachel's shoulder* They're always so amazing.
Rachel: *small start at the voice, will get up from the wall and look behind her*
man: *steps back in slight alarm as Rachel moves, gentle, dark, human eyes looking out of place in a scaled and horned face that doesn't look very human at all* *quietly* Sorry.
Rachel: *split-second of a dubious look, then sees the eyes and shakes her head at herself* No, don't be. I'm still not quite used to this place.
man: *his eyes smile, though his face remains grave* It takes some getting used to. Even for someone like me. And I was born here. *moves a set of leathery wings as he glances back toward the dancers*
Rachel: *curious now as she looks back to the dancers* I thought people only moved here?
man: *blinks and looks down at her* No. There are a lot of people born here. Some are even born the normal way, instead of being Impossible Nexus Kids.
Rachel: *eyebrow raise* I don't even wanna know how that last thing works. *the snicker is suppressed, you can't prove it!*
man: *gravely* My parents sat on a couch together.
Rachel: O.o ..... *mouth opens to say something, but she thinks better of it* *trying SO hard not to laugh* … *goes back to watching the dancers*
man: *eyes twinkling again* At least Mom didn't drink from the baby fountain. *also turns his attention back as the twins start a bouncing, back kicking, aerobic piece accompanied by lights the color of their optics*
Rachel: *can't help it now, starts a snickerfit*
man: *that would be a very boyish smirk if it were on a normal human face*
Rachel: *deep sigh as the laughs fade* I'll never understand this place... *idly wonders if she could dance like that*
man: I don't think anyone does. *glances at her* ...Human?
Rachel: *leans back on a nearby table, good-natured smile on her face* Close, Mutant. You?
man: Mutant and Gargoyle.
Rachel: *takes a second to look him over, then extends a hand* I'm Rachel.
man: *big, clawed hand presses hers so gently* Scott.
Rachel: *head tilt* ...Summers?
Scott: Nooo, but I'm named after him.
Rachel: Ah. *nods, then comments idly* Seems like every time I come here, that name comes up...
Scott: The Nexus is good at that. *glances back toward the stage as the music comes to an end, and then whistles softly* That is so pretty.
Rachel: *claps* Yeah, that takes skill. *sounds like she speaks from experience*
Scott: Yeah, but they were born for it, too. *sighs as he watches the pretty dancers get scooped into the arms of a pair of identical purple and gold mechs of the TFA tech*
Rachel: *muses, poking at the big construction-paper M on her shirt which seems to need more tape*
Scott: *curious look at the rustle* You work with kids?
Rachel: *chuckle* No. It's just my own personal revolution, I guess... *brows knit as she pokes it some more*
Scott: *glances at what Rachel's leaning against and lifts his brow ridges, then leans over to see just whose foot that is* *sheepish smirk at the chuckle that comes from above*
Rachel: o.o *very... slowly... moves... away...*
Scott: There are some tables our size over there under the fake mountain with the bonsai on it. *wings spread just a bit, despite the fact that the Transformer whose foot had become a table doesn't seem bothered by the fact*
Rachel: *clearly embarassed for bothering the giant robot* Yeah, let's go over there.
Scott: *will walk beside her, shaking his head slightly* I'm starting to think I was nuts to move here.
Rachel: *chuckle* You might be right. Where'd you live before?
Scott: Port Aux Basques Newfoundland. *checks the cave, and then moves toward the lone empty table at the back*
Rachel: Wow, I have no idea where that is. Except north. *will sit after double-checking it's actually a table this time*
Scott: Well, I could give you the exact coordinates, but in the reality where my parents live Newfoundland's had a few changes from the norm. *settles carefully, listening to the chair creak for a few moments before turning his attention back to Rachel*
Rachel: *waves him off* Nah, it's fine. *attention grabbed by the creaking, she can't help but notice his wings* So what's it like? Having wings?
Scott: *glances at them, then down at his tail* What's it like not having them?
Rachel: *snerk* Well, I was the only one on my team who couldn't fly.
Scott: Ouch. I... actually can't fly. Too heavy. I just glide. *glances up as Archiva hunkers down to check for orders*
Rachel: Hm. Still, that's totally useful. *blinks at the waitressbot* Um... I forgot what's on the menu...
Archiva: *smiles* Food or drink?
Rachel: Um... *glances at Scott* Both?
Scott: *shakes his head* Nothing for me. Well, water with lemon?
Rachel: Yeah, I'll have water too. I'll decide on food in a bit.
Archiva: Alright. *soft chuckle* Do you want bubbles in it?
Rachel: *what? why?* Um, no?
Archiva: Okay, no natural Perrier. *reassuring look*
Rachel: "Perrier"? Heh I couldn't afford that anyway.
lady at the next table: It costs the same as the plain stuff here.
Rachel: Oh. ....Wait, water costs money here?
Scott: Nope. *eyes twinkle* The sparkling water's natural spring water from some virgin planet.
Rachel: Oh. Well... huh.
Scott: *leans back slightly in his chair, and then looks up as big feet walk past behind the waitress. Because of the table being in the little cave the feet are all that can be seen of the big bot*
Rachel: I guess I'll have water then. No bubbles. *remembers something* Oh! Do you have... *hopeful* ...cheesesteaks here?
Archiva: Cheese steak?
Rachel: It's a sandwich... Heh never mind. I'll just have a pastrami sandwich then.
Archiva: No. Please describe cheese steak. Our cook can make nearly anything.
Rachel: Oh! Well, it's pretty much sliced steak, cheese, and onions on a roll.
youthful voice from behind Archiva's foot: Vhat kind of roll? Rye? Vheat? Vhat sort of cheese? Und you know ve use dinosaur steak here, ja?
Scott: *quiet chuckle as Archiva looks for the speaker*
Rachel: *quirks an eyebrow and looks for the questioner as well*
small black girl with cardinal red hair and eyes: *peeks around Archiva's leg, long slender ears perked quizzically*
Rachel: *amused smile at the girl with tar-black skin* Well, I usually use french bread or whatever I can get at the store. Provolone cheese is the best. And... *blink* Did you say dino steak? O.o
girl: Ja. *comes out from behind the waitress, exposing the fact that her feet are paw-like and digigrade, and that that red hair is tucked under a hair net* Apatosaur.
Rachel: Well! *glances to Scott as if to say "Well how about that!"* I guess that's ok. Everything else here has been delicious.
girl: *grins* Danke. *tilts head thoughtfully, and then turns and vanishes into Archiva's shadow. Is soon back with a plate holding a couple small pieces of bread* Sourdough onion, und pale rye vith a touch of anchovy.
Rachel: *points to the white bread* That one. *suddenly thinks of something* ....Are you the cook?
girl: Ja. My name ist Hrafni. *ears twitch as her eyes twinkle with a smile that doesn't show on her face. Looks all of eight years old*
Rachel: *small smile as she answers* Have fun with that. And let me know if you need help.
Hrafni: *laughs softly* I think I can make a sandvich you'll like. Ah... how do you eat your steak? Und do you vant sauce on it?
Rachel: Ah, medium-well is good. And no sauce. *goodness, she hadn't thought about all these details before!*
Hrafni: Okay. *ears twitch again, and then she turns to go back into the shadow. As she goes Rachel will be able to see that she's also got a tail covered with soft red hair, and that besides her cook's apron the only clothing she's wearing is a pair of lovingly worn denim shorts with kittens and flowers embroidered on the pockets*
Archiva: *watches her go, and then smiles at Rachel* She's the second bartender's daughter.
Rachel: *smiles* She's adorable.
Scott: Schattenfeen, right?
Archiva: *nods* Yes. She just had her sixty sixth birthday yesterday.
Scott: *smiles, though he's careful to keep his mouth shut as he does it*
Rachel: *shakes head and smiles to herself* This place surprises me every time I come here.
Scott: *rumble of a chuckle as Archiva smiles and goes to tend another table* Wait till you see an adult Schattenfae.
Rachel: Still not as weird as the blanket-kid.
Scott: Blanket kid?
Rachel: Get this: lady brings me a bundle right? Says to hold 'im. I peek inside, and there's no "him"!
Scott: ...Wait. Furry, purring blanket?
Rachel: Loves it when you laugh.
Scott: *chuckles again* Where did you see a Namarri baby?
Rachel: *laughs along with him* It was a couple months ago. I stayed in the Valley of the Queens for a while.
Scott: *perks* Been awhile since I've gone there. Which baby was it?
Rachel: Ah... I can't remember the name, sorry.
Scott: Was it Nn'larion?
Rachel: *squints, trying to remember* No... but it was something like that.
Scott: Right. Nn'larion's running around now. I remember his mom was excited because he'd figured out how to make real eyes.
Rachel: O.o *mental flash of not-so-real and definitely creepy eyes* Yeah, that's good.
Scott: He kind of looked like a stuffed toy with black shoe button eyes before that. *looks up as Archiva returns and sets down their water and a basket of small squares of toasted crispy bread*
Rachel: *thanks the waitress heartily before turning back to Scott* While equally as cute as the blanket, that's a bit more creepy. ....Actually the thought of a moving blanket is pretty creepy too, now that I think of it.
Scott: *chuckles as he squishes his piece of lemon* I've never been able to understand that reasoning, but then my parents are a gargoyle and a giant scaly guy with horns.
Rachel: *grabs a piece of bread* See big scaly things are supposed to move around. But inanimate objects aren't. You ever see "Chuckie"?
Scott: No. My dad said the dolls were perverts.
Rachel: *snicker* Well it's a horror movie. The only thing it has more of than jump-scares is sex.
Scott: *makes a face* But I actually know a couple living dolls.
Rachel: *stopped mid-nom* Oh... Yeah, that could be awkward...
Scott: *nods over to where the waiter in the dress is laughing at something with the little bot that sits on his shoulders... and who is now taller and has a face* Mal there, the girl on Scattershot's shoulders. Her old body was a doll.
Rachel: *follows his gaze* Oh, I think I remember them. *muses* Can anybody change just like that in this place?
Scott: Just like that? *sniffs at the lemon skin, his eyes focused quizzically on the red-head's face*
Rachel: I mean, like get a whole new body. *sips water*
Scott: Well, there are shape shifters.
Rachel: Then there are robots who can just go get an overhaul. How do you remember who's who?
Scott: Well, I can smell who's who. But I've seen some people have to reintroduce themselves to friends.
Rachel: *small grimace* That's one of the reasons I don't like this place.
Scott: *tilts his head questioningly*
Rachel: *smiles and shakes her head* Also because it has a habit of kidnapping me and trying to solve my problems.
Scott: *chuckles* It solved my biggest problem. *pauses and thinks* Well. God did, but He used the Nexus.
Rachel: Oh it solves my problems wonderfully. I just wish the solutions didn't involve things I can't ever tell anyone back home for fear of ending up in a nuthouse.
Scott: Ahhh. Yeah, I never had that problem. A pair of Guardian Fae changelings were my godparents, and I grew up talking to the things down the well and in the forest and ocean.
Rachel: *chuckles hollowly as she grabs more bread* Just once I'd like to meet someone normal here. ...No offense.
Scott: For Newfoundland in that reality, that was normal. *looks around thoughtfully* But plain flatscan standard people don't really need a place like this.
Rachel: *frown* I guess not... *pokes at the paper M on her shirt again and makes a mental note to find tape as soon as possible*
blue and red sparkles: *form on the table, swirl around, and leave behind a good brand of two sided clear tape*
Scott: *looks at it, and then looks toward the opening of the cave with interest*
Rachel: *blinks and follows Scott's gaze*
Scott: I don't see him. *shakes head and looks back at the tape* Did you wish?
Rachel: *looks back at him, confused* Um... no? I don't think so?
Scott: Huh, well, he'll answer questions before you ask them sometimes, too.
Rachel: *even more confused* Who?
Scott: His name's Optimus. He's one of the local Guardian Fae, and also one of the people that sells goodies to this place.
Rachel: Oh. *takes the tape and replies to the air* Thanks, I guess?
Scott: *slight start* He says you're welcome.
Rachel: o.o .... *not sure what to say, goes to retape the M*
Scott: He didn't want to say it to you because some people are sensitive about head talk.
Rachel: *slightly embarrassed, doesn't look up* I figured. But I'm sorry you had to be the one who got startled...
Scott: *snerks* I'm telepathic myself. I just hadn't expected the little telekinetic poke he gave me first to ask permission to talk.
Rachel: *can joke about that, and that makes her feel better enough to look at him again* Wow, you're big, strong, can fly, and you're telepathic? You really got the good end of the X-gene, didn't you?
Scott: *blinks* *wry humour* Have you looked at me lately?
Rachel: *wry smirk* Didn't you say guardian fae were normal for your world?
Scott: No. I said I had a couple changelings for godparents. They picked up the change in the Nexus.
Rachel: Oh. *tone becomes serious* Are you persecuted at home?
Scott: Nah. I've given a few people nightmares, though.
Rachel: *waits to gauge if that's a good thing or a bad thing*
Scott: *looks at his lemon rind* Part of why I moved here. The reality's already got Dad. It doesn't really need two friendly bumps in the night.
Rachel: What about your dad? How's he being treated?
Scott: *chuckles* The people he works with are used to him. Everyone else usually greets him with a shriek, or an 'Oh ##@$@#!'. Then they realize he's a person and apologize.
Rachel: *reassuring smile* Why don't you make a place for yourself like he did?
Scott: I have. It's here. *eyes twinkling again*
Rachel: *chuckles, looking around* Yeah, but it's easier here.
Scott: Yeah. *shrugs* Dad's pretty unflappable nowadays. But I've got Mom's temper.
Rachel: Oh. Yeah, I know how that is. *glances at the wall and rubs the back of her neck*
Scott: *looks slightly amused* And our feelings stick out where they can get stepped on.
Rachel: Well it's not like anyone here tries to piss you off. This is the chillest place I've ever seen.
Scott: *suddenly laughing* Actually... *laughs some more* You just haven't met them yet.
Rachel: *eyebrow raise* Oh %(*#$. *starts chuckling*
Scott: Mal was one of them, before she got Scattershot. Her sister Vi's even worse when it comes to trying to press random customer buttons, though. And then we've got a guy named Rattrap that comes through here sometimes.
Rachel: *thinky face* Does he get chased around by a little dino bot?
Scott: When he's here. *chuckles* Unless Dinobot decides to just let Rattrap's wife do the chasing.
Rachel: *snicker*
Scott: So you've seen Rattrap?
Rachel: No, just the little dino guy. He went off chasing a Rattrap though.
Scott: Ah. Well, Rattrap's a Maximal. He turns into a metal rat with wheels and an amped up engine. His wife, Rumor, turns into this fluffy little cat.
Rachel: *shakes head and chuckles* A rat with wheels? Seriously?
Scott: Seriously. *sniffs his lemon again and then stirs his water*
Rachel: You can eat that. It won't gross me out.
Scott: *looks up* Well, actually I can't. I just like the scent. *chuckles* But there's yours.
Archiva: *back and setting good smelling plate on table. Plate holds sammich, a huge heap of fries, and some mixed baby greens salad*
Rachel: Mmmm! *rubs hands together and smells the meaty goodness*
Archiva: Do you want any dressing for your fries or salad?
Rachel: Ranch dressing, please.
Archiva: *pulls a little ceramic container out of a storage compartment and sets it down, then takes the cover off easily despite the size of her hands*
Rachel: Oh, thank you! *glances over at Scott* Are you going to eat?
Scott: *shakes his head* Go on. I'm good.
Rachel: You sure? I'm gonna feel bad eating in front of you.
Scott: Don't. My dad passed on some of his psuedoreptilian physiology. I can't eat anything that's really acceptable at the table.
Rachel: *grimace* Well now I can't fix it, and that makes me feel worse.
Scott: *gently kicks her under the table* Eat eat eat. *totally being silly*
Rachel: *holds up hands and smiles* Ok, ok! *digs in*
Scott: *grin* *and then remembers himself and slaps a hand in front of his mouth to hide the teeth*
Rachel: *snickers and covers her mouth daintily to hide the food* Hey now, don't do that for me.
Scott: *blows bubbles in his water, and then looks up* Do what for you?
Rachel: *swallows* Hide yourself. You shouldn't be ashamed of yourself like that. And before you say "some people are put off by big pointy predator teeth," I appreciate the politeness but I'm not one of them.
Scott: Ohh. Actually, some people are put off by open mouths. I'm working with them right now.
Rachel: Ah. Still, you can relax around me. I don't bite. *mischievous smirk as she takes another bite of sandwich*
Scott: *looks at his arm* You'd hurt your teeth.
Rachel: *snickers, then gazes at the cheesesteak* Mmm, this is good.
Scott: I hear things made from scratch usually are. Especially when made by a rabid gourmet chef.
Rachel: We could get you some rare steak, you know.
Scott: I know. But I just ate the day before yesterday. *more water bubbles*
Rachel: o.O You don't have to eat every day? *sounds a bit jealous*
Scott: Nope. More often than Dad does, though.
Rachel: Oh right, reptile. *nods*
Scott: Well, Dad's got other things going too. *slight frown* Have you ever heard of a guy called 'Mr. Sinister'?
Rachel: *coughs and swallows* Who hasn't?
Scott: Dad was the product of one version of him's experiments.
Rachel: *grimace* I hope he wasn't... I mean, was he somebody else before that?
Scott: No, he was born in the lab. And if Sinister had had his way Dad would never have been somebody. He wasn't supposed to be anything but a mindless living weapon.
Rachel: *frowns for a second, then tries to smile* I'm glad he's your dad.
Scott: Hey, this is crumby lunch conversation. *quirks a brow ridge, eyes twinkling again*
Rachel: *laughs* I guess I'm getting better at that then?
female voice from somewhere above: What do you expect from a crumb?
Scott: Shut up, Vi. *chuckles* What do you mean? I'm the one that brought it up.
Rachel: *shoots a small glare at the ceiling before waving Scott off* I've been feeling bad at reassuring people lately, I've... *tone shifts to serious again* I've kinda got a little "mutants anonymous" group going. It just landed in my lap.
Scott: *sits up, ignoring the gleeful razz from above* Yeah?
Rachel: That's what this M is about actually. I decided to stop hiding the fact that I'm a mutant even though I can. *shakes her head* Among all the publicity people started showing up asking for advice...
Scott: *sudden grin, and then pushes back from the table a bit to dig through one of the cargo pockets on his utilikilt*
Scott: Here we go. *straightens up and offers her a one inch pinback button of a yellow circle with an X in it*
Rachel: Oh. Thanks but... *apologetic look* I really didn't want to tie myself to the X-men. That's why I chose "M."
Scott: ...This isn't the X-men logo. It's an X gene awareness button.
Rachel: *tries to hide the wince as she explains further* Where I come from anything with an X tends to get lumped in with them. And they... don't have the best reputation. I wanted a symbol all mutants could get behind. Do you understand?
Scott: *nods as he puts it away, though he's surprised* Sure. Sorry.
Rachel: *pats his hand warmly--quite literally--and smiles* Thanks though. I mean it.
Scott: *slight chuckle* The X gene movement's pretty strong where my parents live. I don't think they ever had X-men, though I know of a few rogue wizards running around now and then. And fairy things on the Rock.
Rachel: *now interested* No X-men at all?
Scott: *shakes his head* The X gene was just another quirk. Oh, there were a few laws about it. But they were mostly of the sort that said nobody over three hundred pounds or seven foot tall could ride the bus, and nobody could ride on the roof.
Rachel: *chuckles* Sounds like a lot better place...
Scott: Well. I don't know. We had our bloody history too. Blew Newfoundland right out of the reality it started in.
Rachel: *sobered* Oh. How- *shakes head* Nevermind, I don't think I wanna know.
Scott: It was a long story. And the wizards' fault, not the X's. Though the lady that caused it actually was both.
Rachel: My X-men have been around for a long while. The people haven't always understood their motives, but they're good people. *smiles to herself*
Scott: *grins, and there are the teeth* Sounds normal.
Rachel: *wry snerk* There've been more than a few mutant secessionist colonies wiped off the map. Sometimes not so accidentally.
Scott: *grin vanishes and he cocks his head slightly* Mutant secessionist?
Rachel: Groups calling for their own country, escaping persecution. It's a great idea. *sighs* But the only ones who can pull it off usually have some other motive.
Scott: Ahh. Like Charlie's people have.
Rachel: *looks up inquisitively, picking up a fry to munch* Who's Charlie?
Scott: The guy that brought people back to the Valley of the Queens, among other things. Charles Scott Summers.
Rachel: Oh! *smiles* I'm glad they could do it. That place is great.
Scott: *nods* You should see Haven 3.
Rachel: *munches another fry* Where's that?
Scott: On another world, like New Haven. Only it's completely different from the Valley. Virgin world.
Rachel: Like barren desert virgin or untamed jungle virgin?
Scott: It's an untouched world, but it's not a desert or a jungle. *grinning again, his expression absent*
Rachel: *smirks* You live there, don't you?
Scott: Nah. I live in the Nexus. Haven 3's just a pretty place.
Rachel: You should retire there someday. *scarfs the last of her cheesesteak*
Scott: *shakes his head* No. I think I'll stick with living in the Nexus. I get more out of life this way.
Rachel: *chuckles* I could never stay here, but it just keeps bringing me back.
Scott: It's not that bad. There are quiet residential neighborhoods. I own a fairly normal two story condo. *grin* With a nice soft bed. *clearly not meaning anything bad by the comment. He's just happy about that bed*
Rachel: *laughs at his happiness, then sobers again* I dunno, it's the principle of the thing. This place plucks people out of their normal lives and chucks 'em into... well, this. *gestures around the bar*
Scott: Actually, most people who come here regularly need to escape from their normal lives for a time, or go nuts. And for some it's the only safe haven they have. *nods toward a Transformer couple* See those two?
Rachel: *looks over* Yeah?
Scott: The lady's a medic in Megatron's army. Forbidden to bond. Her husband's an Exile. *pauses and looks at her* Do you know what that means?
Rachel: *eyes narrow with sadness* Yes, I do.
Scott: Charlie snatched him just before he died, and brought him here. Now that she's been located she can come here and be with him.
Rachel: ....So he was supposed to die?
Scott: Primus was alright with sending him back. *slight grin*
Rachel: *raises an eyebrow: Who's Primus?
Scott: The first Transformer. They say that all the others' sparks are made from his, and when they die they all go back to him to wait till God remakes everything.
Rachel: Oh. ....Well it still wasn't supposed to happen.
Scott: He had unfinished business. But anyway. You see what I mean?
Rachel: No. Everybody has unfinished business. You can't just send people back.
Scott: *slight frown* If he wasn't supposed to be here, he wouldn't be.
Rachel: *annoyed grunt* Well why him then? Why does he get to be lucky?
Scott: *frown deepens* Maybe we should change the subject.
Rachel: No. You know, I was indifferent to this place for a while, but now I remember why I hate it. So I wanna hear your argument. Tell me the whole idea isn't just... playing favorites. *wrists and ankles begin to heat up, though her voice hasn't raised yet*
Scott: How is being left in the cruddy mortal world being a favorite? *breathing deeply and evenly to keep his temper in check*
Rachel: Oh, you have a cruddy "mortal" life? Boo hoo! So does everybody else! You know what "mortal" people do when crap happens? They deal with it. Instead of getting whisked away to some magical place where they get everything they want!
Scott: *breathing checks as the frown goes to slight confusion, and then to annoyance* Either you've got some issue, or you didn't hear anything I said about those two.
Rachel: I heard you. *tone turns mocking* She's in a horrible place and her boyfriend died. *growls* Do you know how many people I just described? That Primus guy obviously didn't save all of them! *clenches fists* Why didn't he take them out of their horrible places? Where was he when MY BOYFRIEND DIED?!
Scott: …
Rachel: *eyes widen* ........ *sits back in her seat*
Scott: *softly* Primus can't help with things like that. *more quietly* Though he'd probably love to. He's... not a bad guy, though he sucks at poker.
Rachel: *that line earns a chuckle as she begins curling up and smoothing her hair* Primus is stupid. *is joking, only talking to keep from crying*
Scott: He's just a created being. Hey... do you want a hug?
Rachel: *shakes head, keeps babbling* This always happens when I come here... get worked up... piss people off... end up crying...
Scott: *looks out of the cave, and then looks back at her* Sounds like you need it. And that hug is going to happen. Have you met Pooka before?
fuzzy big Maximal baby: *worried blue optics on Rachel* I saw you before.
Rachel: *shaking her head limply at Scott's question, she is surprised by the small voice* *looks up at it, tears welling in her eyes*
Pooka: *scoots over. Is probably taller than Rachel, but is clearly a little child. Also warm, and cuddly as he puts his arms around her gently*
Rachel: *lets him hug her as she limply wraps her arms around him* This always happens too...
Pooka: Um. No. I didn't hug you before.
Scott: *can't the soft chuckle that escapes*
Rachel: *lets out chuckling sobs into Pooka's warm fur for a while*
Pooka: *cuddle love* If huggin' a puppy would be better, I can do that too.
Rachel: *gives a small squeeze to let him know he's fine just the way he is*
Pooka: *happy little puppy sound as he nuzzles her hair*
Rachel: *after a while she sits back up rubbing her nose and sniffling* I'm sorry guys. When I get worked up I say stupid things... But thank you.
Pooka: *pat pats and offers her a piece of paper that's been rumpled till it's soft*
Scott: *just watching. He's praying too, but that doesn't show*
Rachel: *blinks and takes the paper* What's this?
Pooka: Snot rag.
Scott: *facepalm*
Rachel: .... *suddenly feels bad and begins wiping off Pooka's fur*
Pooka: *very surprised sparklet* I meant for your nose?
Rachel: *chuckle sniffle* I can handle my own snot.
Pooka: Oh. *little purry chuckle* Are you feeling better?
Rachel: *sighs, still not so sure she likes the Nexus. But she does feel better* *small smile to both of them* Yeah.
Scott: *quietly* Do you want me to see if I can find him?
Rachel: *looks down* No. He... He wouldn't want to see me again. *pained expression* I'm the one who killed him...
Pooka: Did he hate you before he died?
Rachel: *looks like she might cry again* No...
Pooka: Was he bein' a dumbaft jerk 'n tryin' to kill lotsa people?
Rachel: *brows knit* No! No, it was an accident, but that's not important.
Scott: *softly* Then if he was somewhere in the Timestream, and not gone, I don't think he'd hate you. *not saying it like he wants to go for sure and get the guy, just speaking in reassurance*
Rachel: *smiling into space* I hope so. I just hope he's in a better place now. *resigned herself long ago to bury that hatchet*
Pooka: *quietly* Unca Scott can go look and see if he's there. Maybe we can find him long enough for a hug?
Scott: I don't know, Pooka. Don't get your hopes up. I think if he was there we'd have been told already.
Rachel: *squeezes Pooka's shoulder* No, no, that's fine. I've moved on. *perhaps a change of subject?* You know, I don't remember you at all. Where did you see me before?
Pooka: Here. You've been here a couple times.
Rachel: I guess I just never noticed you. Sorry. *smiles* You're a good hugger.
Pooka: *grins* I'm a baby. Babies're good at that. So're puppies.
Rachel: *chuckles* Then you're doubly good!
Pooka: ^_^
Scott: *chuckles*
Rachel: Well I think I've taken up enough of your time. I should be getting home. *stands up and dusts herself off*
Pooka: *grins and steps back, then transforms to a massive black Malamute with white paws and white star on his forehead* *pauses* Scott, can you get me some of those cherries?
Scott: Sure, but we'll have to wait till tonight.
Pooka: Okay! Don't want you to get stuck in a rock. *gentle slurp for Rachel, and then runs out of the cave, wagging*
Rachel: *laughs and waves Pooka off before turning back to Scott* Sorry again that I yelled at you.
Scott: *shrugs, his wings flexing with the gesture* Don't worry about it. Just...
Pooka: *peeks back in* Primus says he's sorry.
Scott: o.O
Rachel: *blink*
Pooka: He says he wishes he could do more stuff, but he's not God. He's just the guy that made us Transformers. *ducks his head a bit, then looks up again* But he says that he'd give you a hug if he wasn't too big.
Rachel: *sad appreciative smile* Could you tell him I don't hate him? Or anyone's god. I was just mad.
Pooka: Um. He's not a god. He's just a big guy. But I'll tell him. *darts over and slurps her cheek, and then scoots*
Scott: *offers napkin*
Rachel: *takes the napkin and wipes off, then leaves a few dollars on the table* It was nice meeting you, Scott.
Scott: I already paid. *slight grin* Yeah. Sorry about all that.
Rachel: *grimace/pout* That always happens when I come here too! Can't I pay for my own meals?! *laughs*
Scott: *laughs too* My Aunt Sal would skin my scaly rear if I tried being that kind of ungentleman.
Rachel: *shakes head, smiling* Not letting women be useful is just as ungentlemanly, you know.
Scott: Just let me enjoy the chance to buy something for somebody for once. *rises and stretches, his wings spreading and tail curling as he groans softly*
Rachel: Fine. *puts money back in wallet* If there's a next time, which there probably will be... *rolls eyes* I'm buying your food.
Scott: *thinks about that and winces* I'll let you get me some sashimi.
Rachel: *points and smiles at him sidelong* I make good sashimi.
Scott: *grins* I'll remember that. Though I don't have a kitchen.
Rachel: *shrugs* I'm sure somebody'll let me borrow theirs. *hefts purse onto shoulder and extends a hand* So long.
Scott: *big, warm hand envelopes hers gently* God bless.
Rachel: *smiles warmly at him, then leaves the Black Dog to call up Logan and get a lift back to her own reality before her meeting*
((Written by ssjmihoshi and random_xtras.))