As The Forum Turns:New Year, New pran-I mean...possibilities

[terran631]

((LOL! I'm sorry. I read that and thought Nah, couldn't be. "In need of a changing?" Too funny Machias. *slips out quietly*))

[azure turtle]

(( LOL!! :lol: ))

Sure, I'll go look for her, Sensei!

Mikey: I'll come with ya, lil' bro! Let's get going!

*The two turtles wandered through the caves, calling Machias's name*

[Machias Banshee]

((Well, its fixed now...))

*Machias slept deeply on her bed, her leg pain causing her to twitch itermittently, and unfortunately having left her door locked as well...*

[azure turtle]

*The two turtles received no response and began to worry*

Where could she be...?

Mikey: You check out the dojo and the infirmary. I'll check out everyone's rooms.

Roger that! But uh... Mikey, won't Raph get mad at you for peeking into this bedroom?

Mikey: Only if you tell him!

*Michelangelo gave Azure a pleading look*

All right, you're secret's safe with me. I owe him for popping the mango balloon I was riding, anyway...

Mikey: Huh?

Oh, sorry. Long story... I'll tell you about it some other time.

*Azure ran off, leaving a confused Mikey behind*

Mikey: Okay then...

*He left, knocking on the bedrooms in search of Machias*

[Machias Banshee]

*She groans, and unconsciously adjusts the pillow under her thigh before falling back to sleep*

[azure turtle]

*Azure ran into the dojo*

Nothing...

*He turned around and ran towards the infirmary*

Nothing again. Geez... And I thought magicians were the only ones good at disappearing.

*Azure decided to search the other areas of the caves. Meanwhile, Mikey was busily knocking on the doors, but he was getting no response. Once he reached his room, he turned the knob, but it was locked*

Mikey: Bingo!

*He pounded on the door*

Mikey: Hey babe, Splinter's looking for you! Your bandage needs to be changed!

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias woke to the pounding, and heard Mike's voice on the other side. She sits up, adjusting her tail so she could lean back on her bed's headrest.*

I'll come out later...

[Skeletoncrew]

*Skeletoncrew thinks she has it all figured out. She'll sneak out during the day while everyone is busy with the new equipment. She shouldn't be missed for several hours. She'll just take her most important things with her, and leave a note for Saki explaining her decision to leave, and hopefully he won't turn out to be the stalker/nutcase type. In the note she would of course promise not to reveal any secrets regarding the Technodrome and their plans. Hopefully that would appease Krang. She'd hike to where she'd stashed her car, and go somewhere to lay low for a while. As much as she'd like to go back to her friends, she didn't think she was wanted there anymore. Once she was out she'd send an e-mail apologizing for the choices she had made.*

[azure turtle]

*Mikey tried to convince Machias to come out of the room*

Mikey: Aw, come on now! Sensei isn't gonna be too happy if you avoid him like this. *playfully* Don't make me come in there!

*Meanwhile, Azure stopped running around the caves and returned to the dojo, exhausted*

I'm so tired... I think I'll sit here for a bit.

*He sat down on the floor*

Haven't had any luck finding Machias. I hope Mikey's has better luck than me...

*He looked around*

Gee, it's been a while since I've seen the ol' dojo.

*Azure let out a soft sigh. A few moments later, the walls of the dojo began to melt, and the colors of the room blended with one another. Azure became a little ball of blue, curled up in the middle of the room. He gently slipped into a peaceful slumber*

[Machias Banshee]

*muffled from behind the door*

I'm not hiding, Mike...besides, the only way to get in here is if you break down the door. Splinter has the only key, and he wont give that up to anyone...i just wanna be left to myself...

*She leaned back against the headrest, her leg burning. She prayed that it wasnt infected, but she didnt want anyone to bug her at the moment.*

[Kameko]

(((OOC: Awww, little sleeping Azure -- How Cute! :P )))

*sitting on a couch, looking as if she can't decide what she'd rather do -- go curl up in a pathetic red ball, or throw up. :tdead: *

Ugh. And they say sunlight is supposed to be healthy.

SP: Perhaps in moderation, child, but I believe you've gotten a bit more than your fair share.

You're telling me. *Looks over at Manjari* Oh, boy, another super-nerd.

*Splinter gives her a LOOK*

:tanime: Heh-heh, I'm just kidding, really. Anyway, My name's Kameko, and I'm new around here, too. Long Story, but in a nutshell, I'm from another dimension, and I'm thier sister. *pokes a finger in Donatello's direction* Hence the teasing aimed at Donny, here. :wink:

*Donatello frowns at her :tsweatdr: *

Hey, it's all in love, bro, really! 'Nerd' is a term of endearment! I swear! :embarass:

[Machias Banshee]

Don: endearment my foot....*smirk*




*Mike stood at the door, frowning. Machias continued to refuse coming out. He wasnt sure why. Had he said something to her and make her angry? He paused to think, and then shrugged.*

Mike: Okay, I guess I'll have to go get Splinter then...he might not be too happy about you hiding from him...

*Machias looked up and sighed*
I'm NOT hiding from him or anyone!

Mike: Then come out, and we can talk or something!

I...I can't--Its a long story, and its hard to explain, just...

*She never finished her sentence. Shaking his head, he turned and headed to the living room, where everyone else was...*

[Kameko]

*looks toward doorway where Mikey is entering* Hey, Mike, you okay?

[Machias Banshee]

Mike: *approaches Kameko and Splinter* Machias locked herself up in her room...I tried to talk to her, butr she refuses to come out...

[Kameko]

(((OOC: "Kamelo"? :lol: Aren't typos fun?)))

[Vespera Blaze]

I guess "Super Nerd" is preferable to some of the other names I've been called recently. No offense taken short stuff.

*she glanced at Kameko out of the corner of her eye to see how the dig was taken. She took a seat on the couch, taking in the atmosphere in the room. They had accepted her into their home with what she felt was a surprising ease, and personalities for the most part shone out with very little in the way of masking. Hearts on their sleeves indeed. She hoped to continue her friendship with them, but that brought up a sticky point. At some point she would have to share her secret with them, and for the life of her she couldn't figure out a way to do it with any modicum of subtility. Oh well. Maybe if she observed them some more she'd have a better idea of who to talk to about it.*

[Kameko]

:tsweatdr: Humph. I'm not THAT short.

*Gets up and stands by Michelangelo, as if comparing thier heights. Frowns when she realizes she's almost exaclty the same height as he is.*

O...kay... maybe I am that short. :tanime:

[Kali]

*frowns* I hope Machias's doing okay. I could phase in and talk to her if you want.

*Splinter shook his head* No, I don't believe that will be necessary at the moment. But we may need you to do that later if she won't come out.

*nods, then turns to Manjari* Sorry, I don't think I introduced myself. I'm Kali.

[Kameko]

*blinks at Kali* You can walk through walls?!? No way!

[Kali]

*smiles at Kameko* Yeah, it's demon thing. I don't do it often because it can have... side-effects.

[Kameko]

a... 'demon thing'... o...kay... *blinks again* 'Side-effects'?

[Kali]

Well, I'm only half-demon, and everytime I use my demon powers I become a little more "demonic" *nervous smile* and a little less human.

Splinter: We are working with meditation to help assure that she does not completely cross-over.

Yeah. That's why I feel so bad for Machias, I kinda know what she's going through, having that part of you that you're frightened of.

[Kameko]

Ah. :goofygri: Gotcha. Half-demon, sauro-...hominid? Oy, my life gets weirder every day...

[Vespera Blaze]

*feels a lot of sympathy for Kameko. She fully understands what the other is going through. She's still trying to wrap her head around everything she had seen today, although she filed the "demon" comment away in a corner of her mind to worry about later. Was she related to the Rakasha? And if so, was it Manjari's place to do something about it?*

*She returned Kali's smile a little hesitantly* Hiya.

[Kali]

*grins* Don't worry, you get used to the weirdness after awhile.

[Kameko]

So, Manjari, tell us about yourself. What do you do for fun, you have any hobbies? What do you like to eat?

[Vespera Blaze]

*relaxed back into the couch, revelling in how comfortable it was.*

About me? Hmm. Between work and study I don't get a lot of time off, but when I do get a break I like to head down to the beach like I did today, or catch a movie or something. Not much in the way of hobbies, but its a good thing I only need to feed Tansy every other week or so, or the poor kid would starve to death

Mike: Every other week?! It can't be a cat...

MJ: Nah, Tansy is my pet corn snake. Cute little biter. *chuckles* as for what I eat? Pretty much anything that isn't moving too fast through the kitchen when I get hungry. I may not be much of a cook, but I'm hell on wheels with a microwave

[Kameko]

*grin* :nod: Thank the heavens for microwaves, man. I couldn't cook much without them either. 'Course it's kind of a pain when Donny confiscates it and re-wires it for one of his projects. :tsweatdr: *gives Donatello a pointed look*

D: What? I never re-wired the microwave!

No, you're right, my Donny did. :tlol: Close enough.

D: Not.

[enigma-1]

Siblings. :roll:

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias sat up and yawned. Careful of her now throbbing leg, she stood up and stretched her back and tail, feeling small cracks nd pops all the way down her spine. She shook her hair back from her face and looked to the door.*

*sigh* Well, i have to use the bathroom, i guess i can go and get back without being noticed...

*quietly, she opened the door, and after giving a look around, opened the door and walked into the hall...*

[enigma-1]

*shakes her head* Poor Machias. Guess you're stuck w/ the pity train for awhile. Well, you've got my sympathy with all these jokers around.

[Machias Banshee]

*She made her way from the bathroom, when she could hear laughter coming from the living room. Curious, she crept towards the door, peeking inside...*

[enigma-1]

*bored, disappears for now*

[Kameko]

*spots someone in the doorway* Hey, is that Machias's nose I see poking out of the darkness? :P How ya feelin'?

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias quickly withdraws, heading for her room.*

[Kameko]

M: Machias! Wait...

SP: Machias. You're bandages need to be changed.

[Machias Banshee]

*She paused at Splinter's voice, and looked back. She saw everyone in the room, and turned around, replying in her own shaky voice*

I'm fine...*the sting from the wound betrays her* I can take care of myself...thank you though...

[Vespera Blaze]

*frowns slightly at the sound of Machias' voice. Not wanting to embarass her with an audience, MJ seizes the first idea that gets her out of the room without being too obvious and turns to Leonardo.*

So what are the chances I can get a tour?

[Kameko]

*looks dubious at Machias's declaration, an expression she shares with everyone in the room, including Splinter*

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias swallows in her dry throat, and turns back towards her and Mike's room, hoping they wouldnt get her and bring her back...*

[Kameko]

SP: Machias.

[Machias Banshee]

((grr...youre sneaky!))

*Machias cringed, and turned around with a sigh. She never could walk away from Splinter, especially after using that certain tone in his voice...*

Yes...?

[Kameko]

SP: Your bandages. Now.

*gulp**quietly* Y'know, the last time Splinter used that tone with me and I didn't cooperate, I ended up regretting it...

[Machias Banshee]

*takes on the now known as 'bambi' look, and nods, blushing*

Yes, Sensei...*she turns and heads to the infirmary, dreading what he might say...*

*Splinter watches her go, and sighs, shaking his head*
Sp: Please excuse me, I must tend to Machias for a while. Once again, manjari, you are welcome here, and do make yourself at home...

[Kameko]

(((OOC: I g2g for the day, I'll try to get on tommorrow, otherwise I'll see you Mon or Tues!)))

Yeah, Manjari, make yourself at home, I have!

[Vespera Blaze]

*Well that answers the question who's in charge around here Manjari thought to herself. She stood up and quietly excused herself from the room, heading deeper into their home in search of the plumbing*

[Machias Banshee]

((Aww...bye Kameko!))

*Machias sat on the infirmary bed, wishing she were invisible. She squirmed slightly when Splinter entered the room...*

[Vespera Blaze]

*Manjari walked quietly through the halls, peeking through doorways in her search for the bathroom. She turned a corner and came to a sudden halt, mostly because she had run headlong into another going the other way. Before she can stammer out half an apology, she finds her back slammed into a wall as Raphael's instincts take over in response to his surprise.*

Raph: Who the hell are you and what are you--

*He stopped speaking and stared. The girl had been replaced by the slightly ludicrous picture of a large black snake dressed in the clothing she had been wearing, a black wig perched haphazardly on its head. The wig fell to the floor as the snake spread its hood and hissed directly into his face. He let go of the handful of shirt he had grasped and lunged backwards with a shout. Manjari dropped to the floor and slithered around the corner, leaving behind a tshirt, floral print skirt and her black wig*

((All I can say to this is I swear, the concept for Manjari predates me reading about Nagas in the other thread...lol, there's a few major differences between them))

[azure turtle]

*Azure woke up with a start when he heard Raphael's yelling*

Huh?? Sounds like trouble!

*He grabbed his katana from one of the weapon racks and ran out to the hallway*

Raph? What happened?

*Raphael was gawking at a pile of clothes on the floor, along with the wig*

Gee... I didn't know you liked dressing up like that.

*Raph turned and glared at him*

Raph: Not me, you twerp! I just bumped into a giant black snake!

What?! Dude, you're starting to sound like Leo...

[Machias Banshee]

((*Leo reads the thread* Leo: NO! NO MORE SNAKES!!!!! I dont want to break down again like that ever again, thank you very much!))

[Vespera Blaze]

((*Ducks and covers* I've been researching nagas for nearly a month and half for the character...I nearly had a cat when I read the other thread...its not my fault!!!))

*Manjari curled up in the back corner of a room deep within the lair, her mind going a mile a minute. She couldn't believe she'd been startled enough to switch like that. It hadn't even been a concious decision. Now she had to figure out an explanation, fast...except...the angry one had all of her clothes, which made changing back to explain a little difficult*

[Machias Banshee]

Sp: Lay down Machias, and we will take care of your wounds...

*Reluctantly, she lay down on the table, watching as he gathered the bandages and such for the sharkbite bandages. She didnt like it, being laid up with this leg wound...anything else would be better than this. She felt his hands on her thigh wound, and she looked away...*

[azure turtle]

(( Wow!! How'd you get the thread to re-appear?? :eek: ))

[Machias Banshee]

((I just posted...kinda thought that if a new post ws done, it'd have to show it...))

((:D ))

[azure turtle]

(( Quick thinking, Machias!! :tthumbsu: ))

[Machias Banshee]

((thanks...now let's get this show on the road...! :D ))

[azure turtle]

*Azure shook his head*

Are you sure about this??

Raph: Of course I am! I saw it with my own two eyes! Listen kid, you go get the others, while I search for that snake.

Okay, whatever you say. Oh, and don't worry, Raph. Your secret is safe with me.

Raph: What secret?

That you cross-dress.

Raph: I do NOT cross-dress! :mad:

Let's talk about this later, 'kay? :lol:

*Azure ran off to alert the rest of the gang*

Raph: Damn it!! I don't cross-dress! That kid's gonna get it one of these days...

*Raph walked away, grumbling, but keeping a lookout for the giant snake*

[Vespera Blaze]

*Slides out of the room, looking for a linen closet, bathroom, or any place she could get a shirt or at least a towel*

[azure turtle]

*Azure rushed into the living room where everyone was seated*

Guys!! We've got an intruder!

Don: What??

Raphael said that some sort of giant snake has gotten into the caves somehow, and he had a run-in with it.

*Leonardo's face paled*

Leo: Did you say "snake"??

*Donatello ignored his brother's frightened expression*

Don: What about Raph? How is he?

He's fine, but he went to look for the snake on his own!

Leo: We should help him! Everyone search the caves, but stay in groups!

Right!!

*Something suddenly comes to Azure's attention*

Hey, where's Manjari??

(( Edit: Woopsie... This is a bad omen. College just started, and I'm already losing my memory. :oops: ))

[Machias Banshee]

((S'okay, I'm just wondering what to have us talk about now...ahha!))

*Splinter looked through the bandages on Machias's leg, checking the stitches he had done, when he paused to look up at her.*

Sp *continues his work, flashing his eyes back and forth once in a while*: Is something bothering you Child? You seem rather subdued.

Oh...its nothing, really...just tired...

[Vespera Blaze]

*Manjari turned a corner and froze. There was the other turtle, stalking down the hallway, daggers in hand. She hoped he hadn't seen her, but that wish faded quickly as he stopped and dropped into a crouch*

Raph: There you are...

*Manjari coiled tightly around herself, watching him. Without warning he lunged, and the only thing that saved her from being stabbed was her own lightening quick reflexes. As it was, he planted a solid kick to the upper half of her body on the way by. She dodged each attack desperately, some coming close enough to notch her scales with the edge of his weapon. Finally he cornered her. She felt one hand grip the back of her neck over the hood and saw the other arcing in with the dagger. There was a familiar gutwrenching lurch and the temperature in the area spiked for a half a second*

MJ: Please don't hurt me!

*She cringed away from him, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. From the waist down she was still snakelike in appearance, but her torso had morphed back*

[azure turtle]

*Raphael blinked at the snake's sudden change of appearance*

Raph: What the heck...? All right, who exactly are you, and what're you doing in here?

*He gripped his sais and continued to hold them in an attack position*

[Vespera Blaze]

I met Azure on the beach and he invited me back here to meet everyone else. There was a problem with that girl...Machias? and I went to go find a bathroom or something so they didn't have an audience. I ran into you in the hallway and it startled me into changing! I'm sorry...

[Machias Banshee]

*Splinter looked at her, arching an eyebrow*
Sp: From the incident in the infirmary, and then the hall, that seems hard to believe.

*theyre eyes meet, and she turns away, sighing. He looks back down at his work thoughtfully*

Sp: This would not have anything to do with Kameko's question earlier about your present condition...

*He felt her muscles tense under his hand, confirming his suspicions of what was wrong...*

[Kali]

Raph!

*Raph turned and saw Kali running down the corridor towards him. She grabbed his arm and looked at Manjari* Manjari, are you okay?

Raph: Kali?

It's okay, Raph, she's a friend. *blinks at Manjari* Are you okay?

[Machias Banshee]

*Somehow, Mike had managed to escape most of the insanity, and decided to check on Machias and Splinter*

Man, this first day has been wicked...hope things get better...*smiles* yeah, they will...

*He knocked on the door before entering*

[terran631]

((Sorry to barge in :) ...did I read right, that we're holding off on the other RP until it's fixed?))

[Machias Banshee]

((Hey! I guess. its too bad tho....it was going really good! That was the fastest thread formation in the history of the whole site!))

Mike *patially opens door* : Is it okay if i come in?

[Kali]

((Well, yeah. There's a problem with the reply count, it's off a bit, so a new page of posts isn't being posted until it "catches up". It's only for a little bit, until we can find out what exactly is wrong. Sorry for the inconvience.))

*Leo and Don hurried into the hallway when they heard the commotion*

Leo: What's going on, did you find it? *they both stop when they see Manjari*

*Don grabs a sheet out of a nearby closet and hands it to Manjari*

[Machias Banshee]

(( S'okay...*bad Scotty personation* We dont have the powwerrrr, Captain! :lol: Awww...I'm listening to Billy Joel, and i keep thinking of my pics...just slap me with a hake if i get too mushy...))

[terran631]

((That's fine. No inconvience. :) *looks around at the housework that's been piling up for two weeks* Gives me a chance to do other things.))

[Machias Banshee]

((Heh, i'm finally getting to work on my third chapter..maybe i'll have tha up soon, with some more RPG pics... ;) and who said we couldnt violate this one...? :evilgrin: ))

[Kali]

((*evil grin* Yeah, enough with spinoffs, let's get back to the main storyline.))

*Splinter looked over at Michaelangelo* Yes, my son, come is. What is it you want?

[Machias Banshee]

((Okay...I'll be good...))

Mike *scratches back of his head*: I was just wondering if jachias would like some company...unless you two are talking or something, then i can leave you two alone.

[Kali]

((I never said any of us had to be good... :evilgrin: ))

Splinter: That would be up to Machias. *Splinter turned to Machias* I'm done with her bandages. Is there anything else you wanted to talk to me about, Machias?

[Machias Banshee]

((I try, but it never works...))

*Machias shook her head soundlessly, hoping he would not remember the earlier comment about her behavior. she She sat up and looked to Mike*

Sure its okay...I dont mind.

[Kali]

Splinter: Well, then I'm going to leave you two alone. *leaves the infirmary*

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias watched him leave, poking at the bandage*

So...how you doing?

[Kali]

*Mike shrugs as he sits down hext to her* I'm cool. I've been worried about you. You gave me, everyone, quite a scare. Kali was gonna drag you out if you didn't come out.

[Machias Banshee]

*sighs, shaking her head* Jeez, i think i escape splinter's questions, then you ask...

Sorry for worrying you...I probably looked real good in front of Manjari. *groan* I just...i get tired of this form, ya know? *shrugs* I get these times when i just lose it, you've seen it, like what i did to Raph in the other thread...I'm worried...*takes a breath* I'm worried that i'm gonna reach a point where i wont be able to stop it. I've been becoming more saurian with every change...i'm scared that one day, i'll change to this form, and nefver turn back...*sniff*

[Kali]

*Mike put his arm around Machias' shoulder* I don't think that'll happen. but, no matter what, I'm gonna be here for you, all of us are. You know, Kali's going through something simliar, and she's working with Splinter, maybe you can ask them about it.

[Vespera Blaze]

*gratefully accepts the sheet and wraps it around herself. Her tail sticks out the bottom, but she looks much calmer (and not nearly as red!) now.*

I'm fine, really. No harm done.

*Turns to Raphael* I am sorry for startling you like that. I really didn't mean to go snakey on you.

I guess I owe everyone an explanation. Uh...short story, I'm a Naga. I was going to tell you, but I couldn't figure out a way to bring it up in casual conversation. I didn't think that "Hey, look what I can do!" would have gone over really well... *wry grin*

[Machias Banshee]

*she wraps her arms around Mike, kissing him on the cheek*

Thanks Mike....hmm, i think i could do that. *looks back at him* Wanna come with me?

[Kali]

Mike: Sure I will!

*Kali gave Manjari a comfoting smile* That's alright, we run into this problem surprisingly often. Hey, Leo, will you go find her clothes?

*Leo, who was standing a little ways back, looking a little freaked, nodded quickly and headed off*

[Machias Banshee]

*smiles* Let's go...
*she climbs off the table and they head down the hall, when they see Leo running down the hall, a shocked look on his face*

Leo? You okay...?

[Vespera Blaze]

*Looks after Leo* He wasn't looking to happy with what happened. Is there something wrong?

[Kali]

*Leo paused* Uh, yeah, sure, I just found out that our new guest is half snake. I gotta go find her clothes, excuse me. *and he hurries off around the corner*

**Raph smirked* He's just a little scared to death of snakes, don't take it personally.

[Vespera Blaze]

ah hell...

[Skeletoncrew]

*While everyone is working on the new equipment at the Technodrome, Skeletoncrew sneaks off leaving a note for Saki, and her costume on the bed. She hikes away through the cavern and climbs out where she had seen Azure and Manjari escaping just the day before. She blinks and pauses when she reaches the surface*

Ohhh...bright light!

*Taking a few moments to orient herself, she heads to where she's hidden her car.*

[Kali]

*Kali pats Manjari's shoulder* Don't worry about it, we're working with him on it.

*Leo came back with his arms full of clothes* Um, are these them?

*takes the clothes* Would there be any other reason for a pile of clothes to be in the hallway? The bathroom's right over here, Manjari, you can get dressed in there.

[Vespera Blaze]

*Goes into the bathroom and changes quickly, coming back out completely morphed back into bipedal form. She'd considered replacing the wig, but shrugged and stuffed it into her purse. It wasn't like she was the only bald person in the room*

[azure turtle]

(( Hi SC!! Welcome back! :anime: ))

*Azure stood silently behind Leonardo, absorbing the fact that Manjari was a Naga*

Trippy...

*Leonardo turned around and faced him*

Leo: Did you know that she was a Naga??

*Azure shook his head*

Nope. I had no idea.

*Leonardo knew Azure wasn't lying, and decided to let him off the hook*

Heh heh... I learn something new everyday. :anime:

[enigma-1]

*appears, looking none too happy as she struggles to pull Cooler off her sabre*

Let go, you little monster! Let go!:evil:

Cooler: *only hisses and bites down harder onto the weapon* :evilgrin:

[Machias Banshee]

*Mike and Machias look at each other, and shrug*

I got lost in those last scenes, what about you?

Mike; Oh yeah....

*They suddenly see Enigma having difficulties with a certain small Naga*

Cooler! What are you doing? *She scrunches down beside the little Naga* Why dont you stop biting that, and you and i can play a game a little later, okay?

[enigma-1]

Cooler: *hisses again, but lets go* Play?

*pulls her sabre away, checking for damage* Oh, I'd like play all right. Play thrash the brat. :evil:

[Machias Banshee]

*steps away from the angry Naga Master*

Uh oh...well, he's your responsibility, i guess...

[enigma-1]

At this rate, I'm thinking of trading him in for an imp. At least with those you know why they're such a pain.

Cooler: *hisses at Enigma*

Don't make me get the muzzle, pest. :flaming:

Cooler: *zips it*

[Machias Banshee]

Well, where's his father? I'm sure Pyrae would set him straight...

[enigma-1]

He needed to go see the vet, so I sent him and Eternity while I watched this little brat. No one else will come near him, even Rage and Chaos.

[Machias Banshee]

Well, you know what you have to do then...*shrugs*

[enigma-1]

Yeah. Either let Raph skin him or put the muzzle on him. And at the moment, I'm learning toward choice number 1.

Cooler: No hothead!

Then you behave.

[Machias Banshee]

Well, you have to be a good little Naga, Cooler, so you can grow up and be big and strong just like your Dad... ;)

[enigma-1]

*crosses her arms, glaring down at the youngster* Oh, he'll be a fighter all right. That's what I'm training him for.

Cooler: Fight like Dada!

[Machias Banshee]

Well, Cooler, youre Dada doesnt attack unless its REALLY important, and he doesnt cause his Master any trouble...dont you want to be good like that, too?

[enigma-1]

Cooler: *glares back up at Enigma* 'Nigma dumb. No fun.

I'd watch it, shorty. I'm the one who feeds you, remember?

Cooler: Still no fun. Can't fight Thrasher and Vali. Won't let.

That's b/c they'd pound you, Cooler. They're both twice your size.

[Skeletoncrew]

*Skeletoncrew uncovered her car and got in it. It started easily and she drove out to the road. She looked wistfully in the direction of the caves. She could really use someone to talk to right now, but she doubted that she would be welcome there. Fighting back the tears she turned her car the other direction.*

[Machias Banshee]

*Splinter had walked out to the porch, his mind whirling with thoughts. He paused as he felt a familiar presence.*

Sp: ~Skeletoncrew....~

[enigma-1]

Cooler: *pouts* Want to fight!

*snorts* You can fight when you're bigger. Until then, no.

[Machias Banshee]

Yeah, good discipline now means better fighting later... ;)

[enigma-1]

*sighs* I never had this much trouble training his parents. Well, maybe a little with Eternity, but even she knew who was boss.

Cooler: *hisses*

Brat. :x

[Machias Banshee]

*frown* Cooler....you gotta learn to behave, or you and I cant play.

[enigma-1]

Cooler: No! Cooler want to play with Lizard Girl!

[Machias Banshee]

*shakes head* I dont know if i can play with someone who doesnt behave...

((Geez, aint THIS ironic or what?!))

[Skeletoncrew]

((*Snort! Laugh* Oh the irony!))

*Skeletoncrew had originally intended to drive several hours and stop at a hotel somewhere, but the urge to be somewhere familiar and comforting overwhelmed her. She ended up driving several miles to the graveyard where she had some hidden rooms underneath one of the crypts. After hiding the car she walked through the slightly run down graveyard.*

Ahhhh...home sweet home. Grass, trees, flowers, birds, carved marble, none of that sheet metal everything crap! No annoying giant brain, no stupid mutants-*Her voice lost its happy tone*no Saki...

*She entered her secret crypt and headed straight for the liquor cabinet.*

[azure turtle]

(( *snicker* Isn't it ironic? Don'tcha think? *prevents himself from breaking out into song, which tends to happen often...* ))

*Confused with everything that was going on, Azure decided to silently withdraw from the group in the hallway. He went outside and sat on the porch swing, closing his eyes and taking in the fresh air*

Phew... It's a nice autumn day...

[Machias Banshee]

(( :roll: Okay, i'm getting lost now...))

We'll see how things go, and maybe i'll plan something for us to do, okay? I gotta get going tho, so I'll catch ya later...*She waves and heads down the hall* I am so lost as to what's going on right now...*sigh* Maybe i'll just go to my room, and never come out again...

[Skeletoncrew]

*After fortifying herself with a few drinks Skeletoncrew sat down at her computer to e-mail Kali. She wanted everyone to know that she was out of the Technodrome and figured that Kali would be a bit more receptive to getting an e-mail from her than one of the turtles.*

Dear Kali,

I just wanted to let you and everyone else know that I've left Saki and the Technodrome. I realize that my living with him is probably inexcusable, but I am sorry. I still have feelings for him, but I couldn't stay. He's too much in Krang's hand. Uh, tentacle. Things were great before I moved into the Technodrome. I think Saki really could be a nice person if he weren't so thoroughly subservient to him.

Anyway, I snuck out today. I'm afraid that Krang is not going to react to that well, so I guess I'll lay low for a while. Please let everyone know that I'm sorry about everything. Especially Splinter. I must have dissappointed him terribly. I feel like such an idiot.

Skeletoncrew

*Skeletoncrew blinked back her tears and sent the e-mail.*

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias came moping into the living room, when Splinter returned from the porch. She saw him and quickly made a beeline for her room*

[Kali]

*Raph didn't even look up from the couch cushions as Machias passed through the room* Come on, there's gotta be something in here...

Splinter: Raphael, what are you doing?

*Raph jumped, throwing several cushions to the floor with him* Hey, sensei, just lookin' for spare change.

Splinter: Why, may I ask?

Raph: Well, Kali's birthday's in a few days, and I just need a few more dollars to get her this really cool present I saw.

[Vespera Blaze]

*Sees Leo off to one side by himself, looking uncomfortable. She heads over towards him. He sees her coming and starts looking for an exit.*

MJ: Leonardo?

Leo:*slumps and grits teeth* Yes?

MJ: Um, you're brother mentioned that you aren't horribly fond of snakes. I just wanted to apologize for making you feel uncomfortable. Promise, I won't drop into long, thin and scaly when I'm visiting if it bugs you that much.

Leo: *looking more relieved* thanks, that would be appreciated.

MJ: *lip twitches and she turns away* Besides, I don't bite. Hard.

*Doesn't wait for a response, but heads back into the living room*

[Kali]

*Leo blinked, not sure how to respond to that last comment. Luckily, Manjari left, and he didn't have to.*

**Splinter raised an eyebrow at Raphael* Perhaps you should have started saving eariler.

Raph: Yeah, I would have... if I remembered. Can I help it if her birthday's at the beginning of the month! I only just saw it!

[enigma-1]

*sighs* All right, Cooler. Let's try this again.

Cooler: *slithers off*

WAIT! Get back here! *chases after him*

[Machias Banshee]

*She made it to her room, slamming the door behind her.*

oh jeez...that was close...
*she walked over and flopped onto thier bed, sighing*
Oh God Mike, please dont mention anything to Splinter...I should be doing that, I'm just....scared.

[enigma-1]

(that's it! Anyone want a bratty Naga!?)

[Machias Banshee]

((Sorry, dorm wont allow it...cant you just give him a good cuffing or something? or threaten to have him eat more turtle :evilgrin:

Turtles: Thats NOt funny!

hehehe...))

[enigma-1]

(tried that. it didn't work. even forcing him to watch barney didn't work!)

[Skeletoncrew]

*Back at the Technodrome Shredder has just found Skeletoncrew's letter on the bed. He sits down to read it.*

Dear Saki,

I am sorry to do this to you, but I just can't go on like this. I've had a wonderful time with you, and had hoped to be with you in the years to come, but things changed once I joined you in the Technodrome. I think that in a monogamous relationship the two partners should be the most important people in each other's life. It has become painfully obvious to me that I would be competing with Krang for your attention if I stayed. That's not fair to me. Or to you either. I don't understand your devotion to him and the idea of world conquest. It also hurts me that you asked me to do something that I've never wanted to do. Yes I agreed, but only because I so desperately wanted to be with you. I realize now that I should have stuck to my principles.

So I've decided to leave. I think we'll both be happier this way. At least I hope we will. If you ever get tired of trying to conquer the world, you know how to get ahold of me. Don't worry about me revealing any secrets about the Technodrome or what you're up to. You have my word that I will not. I know that Krang is probably going to freak out when he hears that I'm gone. I hope that you can just let me go. I won't trouble you any more. Once again, I'm sorry.

Love,

Skeletoncrew

*Shredder re-read the letter several times before folding it up and dropping it back on the bed.*

[Kali]

*Kali booted up her computer* You've got mail

Okay, who bets all of it's spam. *she kept deleting various messages about porn sites, people on web cams, and a male-enhancement ad* Definitely don't need that one. Hey, I've got one from SC.

*she opens it and reads the message, not sure whether she should be happy or saddened by the news*

[Skeletoncrew]

*Shredder paced the room trying to decide what to do. His first reaction was anger. How dare she run off like this? How dare she leave him? But he realized that she was right. Everything had been great until he'd brought her here. Damn Krang! But they were so close now...if he left to go look for her, their conquest of the world would be delayed. Maybe once that was over he could find her again. Convince her to come back. His thoughts were interrupted by the intercom.*

Krang: Saki? What's taking so long? Did you two decide to work on that "project" again? *Laughs evily*

Shredder: She's gone.

Krang: What?

Shredder: Skeletoncrew has left. *He swallowed* She's left me.

Krang: What?!? What do you mean she's left? I need her for my plan!

[Vespera Blaze]

((heh. Just call me your friendly neighbourhood babysitter...))

*Turns a corner and sees Cooler booting it towards her, looking back over his shoulder towards the living room.*

MJ: :teek: Whoa! I've never seen a naga that looked like that! ((Assuming from a descrip I read in the other thread that the top half is scaly too, but humanoid))

*Cooler nearly skidded to a halt in front of her and hissed. Without skipping a beat, Manjari hissed back at him. It wasn't as effective in this form, but it defenitely got her point across.*

Cooler: *puzzled* Who you?

MJ: Manjari. What's your name?

[enigma-1]

*comes to a halt, panting* His name is Cooler and he's about to be in big trouble. Again.

Cooler: *hisses*

That's it! *snaps fingers, a muzzle appearing on Cooler's snout* And it's staying there until you learn some manners.

[Vespera Blaze]

*frowns.*

Is that really necessary? He seems a little excited, but his language wasn't that bad. He just seems kinda hyper.

[enigma-1]

*just snorts* You don't know Cooler. He's been a menace since the day he was born and so far, this is the only thing I know of that teaches him a lesson.

[azure turtle]

(( Ooh... Kali, is your birthday really coming up?? :anime: ))

*Azure was still enjoying his time outside on the porch. By now, he had a nice cold glass of lemonade, and he sipped it slowly as the sun began to set*

Don: So there you are.

*Azure looked up to see Donatello, who gave him a quick smile*

Don: Mind if I join you?

Not at all. :)

*Donatello took a seat next to his little brother*

I was just taking a break from all the crazy things happening inside the lair.

Don: *nodding* Yeah, I guess we all need some time to relax.

*They were silent for a few moments, before Donatello decided to ask something that had been bothering him for a while*

Don: Yo lil' bro, when you left for Atlantic City, what exactly did you do there? You never told any of us about your trip...

*The glass of lemonade froze right before it got to Azure's lips. He sat motionless for a while, not knowing how to respond*

Well... What can I say? Nothing out of the ordinary happened. Just a normal summer vacation, that's all.

*Donatello wasn't satisfied with the answer, but Azure suddenly stood up*

I'm going back in...

*Azure promptly walked back into the lair before Donatello could ask any more questions*

[Vespera Blaze]

*looks down at Cooler, who's trying to pull the muzzle off.*

Where's his dam and sire? He's a little young to be moving around on his own.

*fidgits a bit.*

I don't know that putting a muzzle on him is going to help any here. Shiva knows I'd be on my worst behaviour if someone tried to put a leash on me too.

[Skeletoncrew]

((OOOooh...Azure's bein' all mysterious!))

*Skeletoncrew drank until she was having difficulty walking and keeping her eyes open, and then stumbled to her bed in the crypt.*

[enigma-1]

His parents went to the vet for a checkup. I'm watching him b/c none of my other pets want to be anywhere near him, even Stab, and he's a Naga too.

*glares down at Cooler* Will you behave now?

Cooler: *nods*

You better or it's going back on. *snaps fingers, the muzzle disappearing*

[Vespera Blaze]

...You keep Naga as...pets?

[enigma-1]

*nods* Well, I call them pets but they're really more like my friends and so are the other creatures that I keep.

*chuckles, remembering old memories* Heck, all adults that I have, I raised from infants, and that includes Cooler's parents.

Cooler: Mama? Dada?

Yes, your Mama and Dada. Some of the best fighters that have ever been around. Which is what I hope you'll be someday, if you ever learn to behave.

[azure turtle]

(( I've always liked being mysterious. :anime: But I feel sorry for SC and Shredder... It's such a sad break up. :( ))

*Azure walked past the scene in the living room, not saying a word. He headed straight to his room and closed the door. Sighing, he placed the glass of lemonade on his desk and pulled out his CD player. Azure jumped onto his bed, put the headphones on, and drowned his thoughts with music.*

[Vespera Blaze]

*decides she really has no idea what the flying fish is exactly happening, and decides to keep her mouth shut on the subject.*

So what exactly was the problem? An overabundance of energy, and you have to babysit?

[enigma-1]

That and he likes to be a little terror. It's got to do with the Gali blood from his mother's side but even that should be mellowed out by now.

[Vespera Blaze]

Well he's a cute kid.

*smile.* I haven't seen any Naga children since I left home. Kinda missed them. Would you mind if we went outside to play? I'd stay in, but its usually hard on the furniture, and I promised Leonardo not more than ten minutes ago that I'd try not to shift in the house....

[enigma-1]

*smiles* Let me guess. You're a Naga shifter, right? One of those kinds who can go between the human and the serpent at will?

[Machias Banshee]

*Bored with her solitarianism, she decided to leave her room, and search for Mike*

[Vespera Blaze]

heh. Yeah. Or when we get the bejesus scared out of us. To be brutally honest, I didn't think there were any Naga other than the 'shifters' as you put it. Not according to our history anyways.

[enigma-1]

Depends on what reality you go to. I got mine from a world where the Nagas can either be friends or bloodthirsty killers, both of which are trained to fight for the enjoyment of others.

[Vespera Blaze]

*blinkblink* Which...reality?

Our history had us picked by Brahma to guard the gates of the underworld. It just never said if it was to keep people out, or something else in. Interesting parallel there.

[enigma-1]

*chuckles* I think I remember that one. You see, when I say reality, I mean another dimension. There's more than just this one we're in. In fact, there are countless ones all around us and I just happened to be able to travel to them. At least, the ones I can find.

[Vespera Blaze]

*Cooler, who'd actually listened and was BEHAVING started to get impatient. He smacked Manjari in the leg.*

Cooler: Play!

*Manjari looked at Enigma, waiting for the yes or no*

[enigma-1]

*nods* Go ahead, but if you bite her, Cooler, then you're a handbag. Got it?

Cooler: *nods* Yes 'Nigma.

*sighs* Well, it's better than when his father called me Mama all the time.

[Machias Banshee]

((Awwww, i thought that was cute, Pyrae calling you Mama... :D ))

[enigma-1]

(it wasn't cute when he tried hugging me. knocked the breath out of me everytime once he got bigger :dead: )

[Vespera Blaze]

*wide grin* If he bites me, I'll bite him back.

*Shoves Cooler gently* Tag! Yer it!

*Snickering she bolts from the lair at a dead run, Cooler on her heels*

[enigma-1]

Good. Maybe he'll learn to stop doing it then.

[azure turtle]

*In the kitchen, Don was consulting Leo over a cup of coffee*

Don: Leo, have you noticed anything weird about Azure lately?

*Leo thought for a moment*

Leo: Now that you mention it, he seems to go off on his own more often...

Don: I think he's hiding something about his trip to Atlantic City. When I mentioned it to him, he got up and left.

Leo: Hmm... Do you think I should try talking to him?

Don: I don't know. Maybe you'll have better luck than me.

Leo: Where is he??

Don: Probably in his room.

Leo: All right... I'll see if I can get him to open up.

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias was walking down the hall, when she could hear soft music playing in Azure's room.*

~Hmm, wonder if he'd like to have some company...~

*Machias knocked gently on the door, and waited for him to answer it*

[enigma-1]

*watches the 2 go and then falls down on the couch, taking a rest*

[azure turtle]

*Azure looked up from his bed*

Sounds like a knock...

*He walked over and opened the door to see Machias*

Oh! Hey Machias! :anime: How are ya?

*Leo began walking down the hallway and spotted Machias and Azure*

[Machias Banshee]

Hey, just wondered if you'd mind some company...I cant seem to find Mike anywhere...

Leo *approaches*: Hey Azure...*looks at Machias* Hey...you alright?

Huh? oh--yeah...

Leo *arches an eyeridge, but then turns to Azure*: Are you busy right now? I was wondering if i could talk to you...

Sorry, Leo, but you'll have to wait in line...I claimed rental of him first... ;)

[Vespera Blaze]

*Cooler caught up with Manjari and launched himself at her back The impact took her by surprise, and she tumbled forward, @$$ over teakettle on the lawn.*

Cooler: No, Tag, YOU it! *and promptly slithered in the other direction

MJ: Who you little....

*It would have sounded threatening if she hadn't been giggling like a madwoman as she spoke. She concentrated, and slipped her skirt off the snakelike bottom half she now sported and left it by her purse.*

MJ: Now its a little more even. She took off after Cooler

[azure turtle]

Heh heh... Is it all right if we talk later, Leo?

*Leonardo gave both Machias and Azure a concerned look*

Leo: *sighing* Oh all right...

*Leonardo returned to the kitchen, while Azure turned his attention back to Machias*

You okay??

[Machias Banshee]

Well, yeah kinda...you dont seem to be, judging from the look on your face when Leo came over...

[azure turtle]

*Azure scratched his head in thought*

Ya... Well, Leo doesn't normally ask me if we can talk unless something's bothering him.

*He shook his head*

Here, c'mon in.

*Azure pulled up the chair from his desk and invited Machias to take a seat. He himself plopped down on his bed, waiting to hear what was on her mind*

[Machias Banshee]

*Macias accepted the seat, sitting so her tail was comfortable*

Well, I've been kinda bothered about my *gestures towards herself* Problem...Mike kinda cornered me and talked to me about it. I'm kinda scared...*shakes head* No, I'm terified...I've been looking at al the stuff that's bee nhappening to me, and i've been noticing that the more i'm like this form, i turn a little more Raptorian, and it gets harder to turn back.i'm scared that...*scratches her neck* that one day i'll change, but i wont be able to control of it...I'll be a true Velociraptor adn no longer human... Mike said i could try Meditation with Kali and Splinter, but...I dunno if it would work. I mean, Kali was bourn like that, I was changed into this mess when i was a little girl!

*sigh* I feel so lost...

[azure turtle]

*Azure nodded in understanding*

Did you tell any of your concerns to Sensei? Out of everyone here, I think he can help you out the most...

[Machias Banshee]

No...he seemed to figure it out when he was checking my bandages, but then he seemed to forget anything about it...or not care...

[Skeletoncrew]

((A mutant turtle feels sorry for Shredder? Now there's a first! :) ))

*Shredder returned to the control room where Krang began to berate him*

Krang: Well?!?

Shredder: Well, what?

Krang: Aren't you going after her?

Shredder *shaking his head*: No.

Krang: Don't you want her back?

Shredder: Of course. But she was unhappy here. I'm not going to force her to come back.

Krang: She's probably gone straight to those accursed turtles! She's probably telling them everything now! She just used you so she could-

Shredder *yelling*: NO! She was not here to spy on us! She gave her word that she wouldn't talk.

Krang: And you believe her? You're a fool Saki! You need to go find her, and bring her back here before she ruins everything!

Shredder *practically seeing red he punches one of the control consoles putting a dent in it*: NO! I'm leaving her alone and you'll do the same!

Krang *Smiles slightly and lowers his voice*: Fine Saki, we'll just have to make things work without her. Why don't you go cool off? We've done enough today.

*Shredder stalks out of the room without another word. As soon as the door closes behind him he calls Rocksteady and Bebop to the control room. ~Good thing I attached that tracking device to her car. Too bad I didn't get to implant a tracking device in her. I'll have to remember to do that once I get her back.~ He laughs to himself.*

[azure turtle]

(( There's a first for everything. ;) ))

*Azure's brow furrowed in thought*

You know he cares, Machias. Master Splinter watches over all of us as if we were his own children. If you can't talk to Sensei, then you should at least consult Don...

[Machias Banshee]

Yes, i know, I see Splinter as my father, its just that....this doesnt seem like something he'd talk about...to a daughter. *is suddenly very uncomfortable*

[azure turtle]

*sighs*

You know that we can trust Sensei with anything, and that he'd do everything in his power to help us. I really think you should talk to him about your concerns.

[Machias Banshee]

I know...but its reached that personal level where i CANT talk to him....*blushes*

[Kameko]

(((I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaack!!! :tparty: *Sai* Maybe when I get my apartment I'll be able to get on more often. Should be moved within the next two weeks! :thyper: 'Course, I don't really have a choice, thanks to my step-creep--I mean, my step-dad... grrr... :tmad: )))

*Sighs, wandering around through the lair aimlessly*

There's got to be SOMETHING to do around here...

*Lost in her own thoughts, nearly walks straight into Leonardo*

:o Whoa! Guess I should watch where I'm goin', eh, bro? :)

*Leo gives her a funny look*

What? What'd I say?

L: :tconfuse: Oh, I dunno. It's just weird to here someone whom I've never met before 'bro'. I mean, before today, you didn't even exist as far as we're concerned.

*sai* Yeah, well, how do you think I feel? One minute I'm helping my brother test an experiment, and the next thing I know, "Poof", I'm in another dimension. The thing is, you still talk, walk, look like my Leo, Raph still talks, walks, looks, and swears like my Raph... You're all pretty much the same. I dunno. You're right. It is weird. And it looks like I may be here for a while...

[Machias Banshee]

((*gives Kameko a mongo of confidence* You'll do good, now that you'll have your own place... ;) ))

*Mike, meanwhile, has been waliking around aimlessly, trying to think of something to do....*

Mike: Man, where is everybody? I cant find Machias or Azure or Raph or anyone!

[Kali]

*Suddenly, Raph runs up from behind Mike and hugs him around the shoulder* Mikey! My best buddy! Pal of pals!

Mike: What do you want, Raph?

Raph: Five bucks. Please, I'll pay you back.

Mike: Forgot Kali's birthday, didn't you?

Raph: NO! I just... just now found the right gift. Come on, I've only got two days.

*Mike checks his watch* Less than that, now.

Raph: Mike, come on, I'll do your chores for a week.

Mike: Well...

[Machias Banshee]

MIke; Two weeks of chores, and i'll give ya eight...




*Splinter came from the porch, and saw Kali sitting at he desk, a perplexed look on her face...*

Sp: Is someting bothering you, Child?

[Kameko]

(((~

((*gives Kameko a mongo of confidence* You'll do good, now that you'll have your own place... ;) ))
Awww... Thanks! *Accepts "mongo" :lol: ^mango*~)))

*Grins at Leo* So, aside from getting a third-degree sunburn, what's there to do around here? :)

(((Somebody help! I'm fresh outta Ideas!)))

[Machias Banshee]

((Mongos... Oy, um...maybe have him take you on a tour of the grounds? ))

[Kali]

*Raph grinned* Deal!

**Kali looked over at Splinter* I just got an e-mail from SC.

*Splinter took a seat on her bed* And what did she have to say?

She said, she left the Technodrome... and Saki. I didn't get to see them together, but from everything SC's told me about her time with him... she really liked him, sensei. But she couldn't deal with Krang, and his partnership with Saki.

*Splinter nodded* Is she coming back here?

No, she's not. She feels she's disappointed you.

Splinter: She chose her own path. Still, will you send her a message back, saying that she is always welcome here?

Of course, sensei.

[Machias Banshee]

Mike: Excellent... :evilgrin:


Splinter : Good.


Great...just great...*sigh* I'll go talk to Sensei then...~Maybe Kali first...~ Thanks Azure, you've helped me quite a bit. thanks... *she pauses before looking at him.* Now that i've spilt my guts...whats been bothering you? You've been, i dunno, kinda distracted lately...You didnt seem to want to talk about Atlantic City much either...you know i wont say a word of this to anyone else...you can trust me, you know.

[Kameko]

*Leo gave her a lop-sided grin*

L:Hmm... you could always get into a fight with Raph... or Kali... or Machias... or Mike... or Don...

:P Or you...

L: :nod: Or me... :lol:

[Skeletoncrew]

*Rocksteady and Bebop surfaced in a module just outside of the cemetery.*

Bebop: Figures. She would be in a graveyard!

Rocksteady *ears laid back*: I don't like these places. They're spooky.

Bebop: Don't be a coward! 'Dere's nothing here but stones, bones, and Shredder's girlfriend.

Rocksteady: 'Dat's what I'm afraid of!

Bebop *Holding a tracking device and heading towards the signal*: Even if she does have some of her zombies around here...remember how she was always insistant that no one get hurt? Anything she's got here is probably just gonna scare us. Not actually hurt us.

Rocksteady: Oh yeah. Right. It'd be kinda fun to blast some zombies anyway.

*They find SC's car hidden in the bushes. Rocksteady goes around to the hood and feels it.*

Rocksteady: Its still a little warm. She's here somewhere.

*Meanwhile, SC is sleeping deeply in her nearby crypt.*

[Kali]

*Splinter nodded and left Kali's room*

*Kali opened a new window and began her reply to SC*
~SC
I just read your message. I'm sorry about what happened with Saki, I really am. I'm not too fond of the man personally, but I know he made you happy, and it was great knowing you found that. Maybe circumstances will allow you to be together again one day.

Splinter wants me to tell you that you will always be welcome here. And if you need any help, any at all, don't hesitate to ask.

~Kali~

*she spell checked, then sent the message. She sat back and her watch alarm beeped* Damn. *she stood up and headed to the infirmary* Don't know why he won't let me keep the stuff in my room.

[Skeletoncrew]

*Rocksteady and Bebop enter the graveyard and begin searching for Skeletoncrew. They trip a motion detector that sounds an alarm within her crypt. It goes off for several minutes before finally waking SC from her alchohol-induced slumber.*

Wha-? *Sits up and immediately falls back on the bed dizzy.* Damn. Probably a deer. *Grabs the glass of water next to her bed and stumbles over to the computer to bring up the hidden cameras outside. She notices that she has a new e-mail and is distracted from the task.*

*Outside Rocksteady trips over a short headstone and falls on his face.* Grrrr...&*#@! When I get my hands on her!

Bebop: Waitaminute. Do you hear something?

*Rocksteady stops cursing and perks his ears up.* Sounds like an alarm. Kinda muffled.

*They both move towards the noise. It seems to be emanating from somewhere within an elaborate crypt. They glance at each other and laugh, preparing to force their way through the door.*

*Skeletoncrew has just read the e-mail from Kali and is fighting back tears once more.* ~Splinter is so kind to say that I'm welcome back!~ *She shuts the alarm off without checking the cameras and begins her reply.*

Kali-

Thank you so much for your kind e-mail. It means so much to me that I'm still welcome back. I'd really like to see everyone again. I've missed having friends around. I-

*She hears a loud noise upstairs. Startled, she switches to the cameras. She lets out a gasp at the sight of Rocksteady and Bebop entering her hideout. She quickly finishes the e-mail*

Crap! They've found me! Gotta try to get out the back before R and bebop get down heree

*She sends the e-mail and jumps up from the computer, knocking the chair over and then tripping over it.* $hit! Of all the nights to drink myself into a stupor!

[Vespera Blaze]

*Manjari and Cooler chased each other around the lawn, making only slightly less noise than a full scale war. It was evident that they were both enjoying themselves immensely.*

C: Ha! Old lady can't catch me!

MJ: Old?! I'll show you old you little reprobate.

C: Toldja! Too slow! *Dodges her rush*

MJ: *curls her tail around and catches him before he sees it coming* Who's too slow now?

C: Not me! *Squirms out of her grip and flees across the lawn*

MJ: *wheeze* I'm getting too old for this. *sprints after him*


((Conversation taken directly from this afternoon with my cousin. Pant, wheeze...she'd tire out olympic long distance runners....))

[Kameko]

*to Leo* What is all that racket?

I have no idea. Whaddya say we go find out?

L: Why not. I've got nothing better to do.

That's the spirit. :P

*They walk out onto the porch, where they spot Manjari and Cooler playing on the lawn. Leonardo distinctly turns several shades lighter :tconfuse: *

Awww, how cute! I think. :| Who's the little dude? ...Leo?

*Looks over to where he was standing, but he's no longer there*

Huh? Leo? Bro, where'd ya go?!? :-?

*shrugs her shoulders :trolleye: *

Wuss.

*takes a seat on the steps and watches the game already in progress*

Now this is entertainment! :lol:

[enigma-1]

*arrives on the porch, watching the scene too* Yeah. Nice to know that someone can keep up with that brat.

[azure turtle]

(( *bounces around* I wanna a mongo!! Where's my mongo? :anime: ))

Sure Machias, I'm glad to help you out in any way possible. :D
*pauses*
I know I can trust you, but my trip to Atlantic City had some really... personal stuff happen. I really don't feel like talking about it.
*shifts his sitting position, a sign that he's uncomfortable*

[Machias Banshee]

((Geez...heres your mongo...))

I know you dont want to talk about it Azure...But stuff like that can eat at you...heck look at me! I'm going nuts because of my problems right now...

[azure turtle]

(( Heh heh... *stares googily eyed at the mystical mongo* ))

*Azure nodded slowly*
I understand... Maybe I'll talk about it eventually, but... I just don't feel comfortable enough right now.

[Machias Banshee]

((*wipes eyes* Sorry, i'm still a lil teary-eyed from the MP thread...))

Okay...but when you ARE ready, dont hesitate to come to me... *pats Azure on the head* I'm gonna head out, i'll catch ya leter, okay?

[azure turtle]

(( Aww... *gives Machias some tissues* ))

Okay! I'll be all right, don't worry. :anime:

[Machias Banshee]

((thanks...))

Okay...we jsut worry about you ya know...
*kisses him on the forehead before leaving*

[azure turtle]

*Azure blushed a bit after Machias left*

Gee... It's so nice to have a lot of friends I can rely on.

*He lied down on his bed and stared at the ceiling*

Hmm. I wonder if the stars are out tonight...

*Azure got up and quietly opened his door. He peeked out to see if anyone was in the hallway. Silence. He quickly sneaked around the lair and went out the front door, doing his best to remain unseen and unheard. Once outside, Azure was met with the crisp night air, and he happily plopped down on the dew covered grass. His gaze rose to the heavens, and the sparkling lights danced across the sky. He let out a soft sigh*

I can't believe that I almost forgot how big the world really is...

[Machias Banshee]

(aww...I think i know whats' going on...)

*Machias walked to her roo, feeling very tired. She went to her room, laid down and went to sleep...*

[azure turtle]

(( Hmm... ;) ))

*Azure continued watching the night sky, but he felt his consciousness begin to slip away. In a few moments, he had fallen asleep underneath a blanket of stars.*

[Machias Banshee]

((Heh, mushy maternal homrone girl strikes!))

*Splinter was stepping outside, looking up at the stars.*

Sp: It is surely a lovely night...

*He stepped down from the porch, and started to walk a ways, when he suddenly noticed something on the ground not too far away. he slowly approached and saw that it was Azure. As he silently walked up to him, he saw the way his breathing was, that the young turtle had fallen asleep. Smiling knowingly, he removed his cloak from his shoulders, and draped it over his son. He looked down at him, shaking his head, and then went onward with his walk...*

( :D )

[azure turtle]

(( Awww.... :anime: ))

[Machias Banshee]

((feel better? :) ))

[azure turtle]

(( Yup!! Muchas gracias! :D ))

[Machias Banshee]

(I gotta go...I'm so tired, and stressed, and ready to start crying again...I'll try to get on tomorrow night...bye... *fades away in a glimmer of glitter*)

[azure turtle]

(( Aww... :( Hope you feel better tomorrow, dudette! ))

[Skeletoncrew]

*Skeletoncrew lurches to her feet and runs out the bedroom door, clipping the doorframe with her shoulder on the way through. She wills all dead in her area to come to her rescue. Unfortunately she only has a few out of the ground and waiting for an emergency like this. Bob was the only one actually in the crypt with her. As she ran down the hall to the back exit she mentally instructed him to rush whoever came through the front door.*

*A spectacular crash alerted her to the mutant's arrival. The sound of the door being pulverized startled SC into looking behind her. She swerved and caught a marble table with her leg sending her sprawling. The fall knocked the wind out of her. As she lay there trying to breathe she could here the sounds of a brief battle. Sadly it ended with what sounded like shattering bones.*

Rocksteady: Come out, come out, wherever you are!

Bebop: Yeah, come out like a good girl! We don't wanna hafta hurt ya!

Rocksteady: Gee we don't?

Bebop: Well, da boss would be mad if we roughed her up.

Rocksteady: But da boss doesn't know we're here. Remember, Krang said not ta tell him 'bout dis.

*Skeletoncrew could hear the sound of furniture being overturned as they searched for her. She pushed herself up trying to supress the groan. The fall had surely bruised her ribs, and maybe even cracked some. Her vision swam.*

Bebop: Heh. Yeah. I guess he won't know will he? Yah know, I've always thought she's kinda cute.

Rocksteady: Yeah, and she's not wit' the boss no more...

*Skeletoncrew's stomach churned and she pushed herself to her feet. She HAD to get out of here.*

[Vespera Blaze]

*The sounds of the game/battle on the front lawn had faded a while ago, the two Naga having disappeared to the left of the cave entrance somewhere. Donatello frowned at the quiet. They'd been going steady for ages, but as always too much silence around here usually meant trouble. He slipped out to look for them. It didn't take much searching as they hadn't gone very far. Curled up at the base of a tree the two were fast asleep, one big tangled ball of limbs and scales.*

[terran631]

((AWWW....*snaps picture of the two Nagas* Gotta remember to give that to Enigma))

[Machias Banshee]

((awww....gotta remember to do Naga pic...))

[enigma-1]

(just remember that even if cooler is a baby naga, he's still got the teeth of an adult :dead: )

[Vespera Blaze]

((lol, I couldn't resist. Reading about Splinter-chan in the other thread kicked my biological clock into high gear and twanged across every maternal instinct I have))

[enigma-1]

(just don't get too attached or you'll have to fight his mom. Eternity is very protective of her son)

[Vespera Blaze]

((No worries. I like children, but I could never eat a whole one... :wink: ))

[Skeletoncrew]

((Children tend to be rather high in fat content. Though I've heard that they're really quite tasty properly marinated.))

*Skeletoncrew stumbled down the last of the hall cursing her drunkeness, slow reflexes, and numerous bruises she had already aquired trying to get the heck out of there. Through the haze of her vision something caught her eye. Sticking out of the pocket of a coat hanging near the back door was a turtle com. She hadn't used it in ages, and wasn't even sure if they guys were still carrying theirs, but it was worth a try. She grabbed it and opened it, punching the emergency button with trembling fingers.*

Come on guys pick up! *She whispered as she opened the back door as quietly as she could.*

[Machias Banshee]

((They taste like chicken... :evilgrin: ))

[Kali]

*Raphael, coat and hat in hand, slipped out of the lair. He passed the sleeping Azure and continued on* Okay, it'll take me twenty minutes to get there. That should give me plenty of time before the store closes...

*he stops suddenly as he sees another figure in the distance* ****, Splinter. *he looked around for something to hide behind before he was seen*

[Machias Banshee]

*Splinter was returning from his walk, when he saw a figure nearby Azure. He gradually sped up his gait, hoping to see who it was. He could tell that it was obviously one of the turtles, given the body shape, but could not tell which one...*

[Kali]

~Think, Raphael, think.~ *He started to panic as Splinter got closer, close enough to tell it was him.*

Splinter: Raphael? What are you doing out here? *eyes the coat*

Raph: Uh... I was looking for you! Yeah, I , uh... wanted to tell you, I mean ask your permission to go into town. To get Kali's present. *waves the money with a nervous smile*

[Skeletoncrew]

*Skeletoncrew hurried up the steps towards the graveyard. She didn't know whether to try for the car, or just run and hide. She looked down at the Turtle Com in frustration.* ~Why isn't it working?!~ *She looked closer* ~Crap! I hit the wrong button!~

*SC tried the turtle com again as she started limping across the cemetery. She hit the button that should broadcast to all other turtle coms.* Is anyone there? I could really use some help! *The sound of the back door being thrown open echoed across the yard.*

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias woke to the sound of her turtlecom going off*

Huh? Who's using their com? *picks up, clicking it on* Hello?

[Skeletoncrew]

*Ducks around a crypt.* Hello!? This is Skeletoncrew I need help please! Rocksteady and Bebop are chasing me! They want to take me back to Krang!

[Machias Banshee]

*She almost dropped her com from shock*

Sh!t! SC!
*she ran from her room, baning on the doors, waking everyone up.*

Gusy! Wake up, SC's in trouble!

[Skeletoncrew]

((Ooooh...think they'll care? Only Splinter and Kali know that I've left (i think). They might think its a trap.))

*Skeletoncrew almost shouted with relief, but kept moving through the cemetery, trying to be quiet but fast. If she could just hide until they got here, maybe she'd have a chance. Suddenly she realized that it was getting lighter. She looked up at the sky. The clouds had moved away from the moon.* ~crap~

[azure turtle]

*Azure stirred as he heard voices nearby. He slowly woke up, blinking a few times. He realized that something was draped over him, so he sat up.*

Huh?? Sensei's cloak...

*Azure turned around to see Raphael and Splinter having some sort of discussion. He stayed quiet, not sure if he should interrupt*

[enigma-1]

*hears Machias's call* Hmm. Better see what this is about.

[Skeletoncrew]

*Rocksteady caught a glimpse of SC as Bebop stubbed his toes on yet another headstone.*

Bebop: $&%@!

*Rocksteady punched him in the arm and pointed. He could just see SC ducking behind another tomb. They smiled at each other and spread out, moving quickly to flank her.*

*SC leaned against the tomb panting.* ~They've quit yelling. Have the gone?~ *She risked whispering* Machias? Are you there? I'm in the cemetery just a few miles from the caves. I think I may have lost them, but I'm not sure.

[Machias Banshee]

The Cemetery? I'll be right there!

*She tried to get the others attention, but to no avail.*

I know what to do...

*She ran out to one of the caves, and pulled out Raphael's Motorcycle*

I hope he doesnt mind...

*She turned it on, revved the engine, and shot out of the cave, heading to the cemetery*

[Skeletoncrew]

*Skeletoncrew looked at the turtlecom with alarm and accidentally raised her voice* You'll be here? Don't come alone! I don't want you getting hurt! No!

*She shuts up noticing movement out of the corner of her eyes. Rocksteady and Bebop are on either side of her just at the edge of her field of vision.* ~$h!t!~ *Having nothing else in her hands she throws the turtle com at Rocksteady and breaks into a run. Several blaster shots miss her, but one finally finds its mark. She's knocked unconscious and goes down hard.*

*Bebop walks up and nudges her limp body with his boot.*

Rocksteady *huffing and puffing*: 'Bout time! *He takes out his communicator and signals Krang* We've got her!

Krang:
It took you long enough! Get her in the module and get her back here immediately! I don't want Saki noticing your absense.

[Machias Banshee]

*Machias could see the Cemetery, and started to look frantically for any signs of SC. She gasped as she saw two very large figures standing over something. Taking on a determined face, she revved up and came at them full speed, putting up her TK shields*

Time for a little...Chicken. :evil:

[terran631]

((*Closes her eyes* Don't wreck Raph's bike!!! :o ))

[Machias Banshee]

((Heh, I'll be fine...The bike too... ;) ))

[Skeletoncrew]

((Not gonna run me over are you? :o I'm gonna finish this little scene...I gotta go back to work.))

*Rocksteady and Bebop fired off several blaster shots and grabbing SC, dove into the cover of the nearby headstones. Unfortunately with the closeness of the headstones and tombs, its difficult manuevering for a motorcycle. Rocksteady tossed SC over his shoulder and ran for the module while Bebop continued firing at Machias. The warthog also threw a smoke grenade obscuring their retreat. Moments later the module could be heard starting and burrowing back into the earth.*

[Machias Banshee]

*Undaunted, she continued onward, following the module into the earth, going nowhere other than....THE TECHNODROME!!!!!!*

They cant escape me that easily...*narrows her eyes, concentrating on the fuel lines, giving them a nice little *clamp* *

[enigma-1]

(*covers eyes* this is not going to be pretty)

[Kameko]

(((I love how everyone types THE TECHNODROME with such flourish! :lol: )))

*can't sleep, thanks to her sunburn, which fortunately doesn't hurt near as much as it did at first.Wanders out of the room she's been sleeping in, and decides to head for the front porch.*

~Maybe the night atmosphere will help me get to sleep...~

*steps out onto porch, and sees two figures which, after a moment of watching them, she identifies as Splinter and Raphael. She then spots another figure on the ground nearby. Squinting in the low light, she manages to make out his bluish coloring*

~Azure. Interesting choice of places to sleep...~

*Starts to sit down, but her sunburn hurts so much she has to bite her lip to keep from whimpering.*

~Man, I'm such a baby. :( Then again, who'd have thought this could hurt so MUCH? *sai* Maybe Azure has the right idea...~

[Kali]

Splinter: Of course you may go, Raphael, but don't be gone too long, and make sure no one sees you.

Raph: Thanks! *hears something in the distance* No, it can't be... My bike! *Raph ran towards the "garage" but his bike was gone!* No way! Whoever took my bike's gonna pay! *growls* How'm I gonna get to the store now?

Splinter: Take the van.

Raph: Aw, Splinter, the van looks stupid.

[Kameko]

*looks down at Azure*

*whispers* Psst, Azure, you awake?

[Skeletoncrew]

*The module entered the Technodrome through a docking station that sealed shut directly behind it.*

[Machias Banshee]

((Geez, youre making this deliberately difficult...!))

Sp: It is either that, or walk my son...Do not worry, I am sure your bike will be returned to you safely...



*Machias squealed the bike to a stop, at the doors of THE TECHNODROME!!!!!*

Shoot, how am i gonna get in? *sees the seal line of the doors* Hmmm....Tender... :evilgrin:

[Kameko]

((( :lol: Raph's gonna KILL you! :lol:

On another note, has anyone seen Azure today? :-? )))

[Machias Banshee]

((NOpe, then again, i've only been on about an hour...))

*She put the kickstand up on Raph's bike and stepped over to the metal door.*

Hmmm, i havent done PK for a while...I think i can tdo it...Old habits die hard...

*she put her hands on either sides of the seal, and began to concentrate, feeling the metal under her hands heat up. she lifted them just off the metal, watching with her astral eyes as a hole formed in the metal. She moved her hands slowly downward, 'torching' her way through the door*

[Kameko]

((( :o 'astral eyes'? Whoa, trippy.)))

[Kali]

*Raph groaned and went to grab the keys to the van* It better.

[Kameko]

*decides Azure must still be asleep, follows Raphael and Splinter towards the 'garage' for lack of anything better to do*

*overhears Raph* :roll: Oh, it's not that bad, Raph. Besides, it's dark out. :D

[Skeletoncrew]

((Yes I am making it difficult. I have some plans...Krang needs to have me for a little while before I get rescued.))

*Rocksteady and Bebop enter Krang's laboratory, the unconscious Skeletoncrew draped over Bebop's shoulder. Krang burbles with delight from within his android suit.*

Krang: Excellent! For once you two mutants have done a good job! Strap her to the table there, face down.

Rocksteady: Thanks boss. We aim to please!

Bebop: Yeah, and we had fun blastin' her too.

*Krang supervises the fastening of the straps and nods with approval.*

Krang: Good. You two can have the rest of the night off, just remember, Saki doesn't hear anthing about this!

Rocksteady: Right boss!

Bebop: Yeah!

[Machias Banshee]

(( Oh okay... :teek: What's he doing?!?!?!?!?!?))

*After several minutes, as well as a pounding headache, she managed to push through the weakened metal. With a grunt and a groan, she squeezed inside.*

Woah, this place is huge! Where do i find SC?

((HHmmm..I'm contemplating whether or not i want to somehow have something happen with me and Shredder...?))

[Skeletoncrew]

((Hmmm...its up to you. He's probably not carrying a blaster around THE TECHNODROME. He's probably moping somewhere. :P ))

*Krang immediately set to work on Skeletoncrew. What he had in mind would be much easier with her unconscious, not that he cared about her comfort. Its just that screaming always distracted him and this was somewhat delicate work.*

[Machias Banshee]

((Hehehe, okay...))

*Machias ran through the corridors, searching for any trace of SC, when she suddenly heard footsteps approaching. She froze as she suddenly found herself standing in front of none other than....THE TECHNO--*slaps forehead* no thats not it....*ahem* THE SHREDDER!!!*

$h!t! *clamps her hand over her mouth as he snaps towards her direction.*

[Vespera Blaze]

*with a yawn and a stretch, Manjari looked around her in confusion. It was dark out, for a moment she wasn't sure where she was. Feeling a movement beside her, she looked down and saw Cooler, and it all came back. Meeting the turtles and their friends, the game of tag, everything. Smiling down at the kid she quickly slipped into her skirt and shifted back. Picking him up she entered the caves*

[Skeletoncrew]

((Dang! I gotta go back to work after this...lunch is nearly over!))

*Taken by surprise, Shredder drops the basket of laundry he had been carrying. A pair of black and red heart covered silk boxers slide to the floor.*

Shredder: You again?!

*Meanwhile, Krang has finished up the minor operation and is now running a blood sample. SC begins to stir.*

[enigma-1]

*large female Naga blocks her path, hissing and fangs bared*

Eternity: And where do you think you're going w/ my son? :evil:

[Machias Banshee]

*She stays frozen, not sure what to do*

I--I know you took SC... I saw your two mutants take her...I want her to come back with me!

[Vespera Blaze]

*stops dead as her way is blocked. Carefully shifts Cooler around to one hip so he's out of the way if Eternity rushes her.*

I was taking him inside. He's a still tired from playing all afternoon.

*Deliberately keeps her voice calm, but maintains eye contact through the conversation*