Paige Kennedy

To his credit, it was not difficult for Tao to produce a list of the doors that Agent Barrett’s keycard had opened. Though, what Paige hadn’t really considered was matching those doors to their physical locations which had become somewhat of an exercise in tedium for the past couple of hours. The list that he came up with was something like an Excel sheet, but the very basic programming of the security system only gave a date, time and a transponder number that corresponded to the card readers mounted next to a given door the card was used to access. In the design of the building, no one had ever really considered having to compare keycard passes to their actual locations. The cards either worked or they didn’t based on the user’s assigned access level. The logic behind the transponder numbers wasn’t intuitive, just utilitarian. Paige could remember roughly the time she had confronted the FBI Agent and after they had found that entry on the list, the rest more logically fell in line by time.

What she also hadn’t considered was how bizarre the trail was going to get after they initially got on the scent. She carried a tablet in one hand with a map file that displayed various engineering drawings that Tao had also been easily able to provide. They had gone downstairs several times to the point where the architecture appeared more original and much more basic, not updated and modern like the main floors. They had walked a long drab hallway of bare, white cinder block walls, fluorescent lights and VCT tiles that looked like surplus supplies from a schoolbuilding project. The only thing missing was the lockers. It was eerily familiar. From what it looked like on the maps, the long hallways seemed to have been some sort of method of direct travel from different points across the huge facility and was simply a special design feature of the building. Other than the low hum of the lights and the steady squeak of sneakers, it was stark quiet. From what she could tell, it appeared they were somewhere beneath the fifty-yard line of the football stadium.

The room they found themselves in was fairly large; surprisingly so for something underground and seemed to be some sort of records storage area. Vertical metal racking housed stacks of palletized boxes in neat order. The smell of aged cardboard and musty paper was thick in the air as soon as they opened the door. Out of curiosity, Paige pulled the top off of one of the boxes finding several very old copies of the Star Messenger with various articles from the construction of the Matthews Bridge, Daedalus Airlines and Rhinos being added to the Sol City Zoo. Other boxes seemed to denote bank records, sports contracts and a legion of other subjects related to the city back through the decades- there were hundreds of boxes, all neatly stacked and placed in their racks. A solitary forklift sat covered ready for use to access the higher racking. Dust was thick over everything and Paige rubbed her hands together as she put the top back. Frustration was setting in.

The logsheet was perfectly clear and they had eliminated all other possibilities. There were two transponder pings close together and they had to have come from inside the room, but they had searched up, down and all over the walls, finding nothing. In addition, the transponder codes were distinctly different from all the others, like they hadn’t been part of the original layout or that they were a different brand or even installed at a later time. There were any number of scenarios, but whatever it was, they couldn’t find them. Paige was getting frustrated and felt like she was being outsmarted. She backtracked her steps through the room trying to think of anything they would have missed, but still nothing. Shaking her head, she leaned against the forklift and began stroking her braid with both hands, almost pulling it as her mind continued to churn. Her lips were a narrow line as her eyes nearly bored a whole through the concrete floor. She wasn’t going to admit defeat, but she wasn’t sure what to say to Tao either. Interestingly, she could tell he was just as frustrated at not being able to solve the puzzle.

“I don’t know Tao,” She said finally. It was cool in the room, but she rolled her sleeves back slightly and crossed her arms. They had walked a lot. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think she’d be hunting underground for what was apparently some hidden passage underneath the stadium in shithole Sol City, but here she was and had dragged the local computer hacker along for the ride to boot. Good job, Paige An internal voice boasted sarcastically. She shook her head.

@Allycat

Diets, Dilemas and Deep fried twinkies.

Victoria
Victoria had quickly said yes, admittedly she was a little dressed up but she had to visit Dira that morning and drop the documents off at the UK consulate, citizenship was really annoying to deal with. Much as she was jumping the gun a little, she did not want to be having to run about making sure things were ok when she felt like a lost land whale, or give anyone any chance of using tricks or leverage against her as much possible.

Arriving at Corona Park, she could not get to the house for now as too busy so pulled the dark purple Bentley into a slot with a go or two, not fully used to the larger car, that and an auto. It was easier but it felt like her foot should be doing something... It felt too much like a video game go and stop button almost. Pulling a coat off the back seat, her handbag out the foot well and checking hair and make up before heading out in the mirror, though mostly just enough to make her paler skin seem vaguely healthy looking and less bride of Dracula. The coat was a cute spur of moment buy in London though she did have to have it altered a little to fit properly and it contrasted nicely with her Raven black hair, though her highlights where fading a little.


Letting Isosef keep an eye from afar, anyway, who would easily recognize her here... Too many people... hopefully. Dressed in jeans, comfortable dark boots and a simple striped t- shirt on underneath for comfort with her small Edwardian era ruby short necklace visible under the coat glittering in the sunlight even though it was still a cooler spring day.

Giving Manami a careful hug greeting her, not to spill coffee on them and her nice dry clean only coat, plus she was feeling a little more tender recently having texted ahead for a decaf with pumpkin spice and cream. Oh how she missed Caffeine. "Hey, made it, sorry traffic sucks worse than Central London today. You look nice today, nerdy suits you Manami.

You wanna talk? sounded like a bad morning? Or just grab something to eat?Though can we avoid Indian, ummm. You know.. mornings... Any food you like. Not short on choice?, Or I only live just off Corona Park?" Victoria was concerned about her somewhat friend, the message was a little out of the blue and a surprise but she just rolled with the changes. She was a little nervous not wanting to tread on any toes and upset her any more.

Victoria tried to keep things light, sipping coffee with her coat belted up neatly to keep snug and going carefully in the crowds with the rather decorative blue cane for balance. "I prefer my car, too orange... I'm more subtle at times. Umbrella... Those uncaffeinated really do seem zombie like... People have a point. Someone was trying to push the pull door for a minute before noticing." Passing the large Rebellion tent on way to the more food side, a rather large German was shouting about, and making a big show round the bright orange automobile next to another one. "Член мариновании _{A marinated d#$%}". Swearing a little too fluently, her dad was a sailor. She did not quite enjoy the Chef's TV show, it was ok, but carnage got old eventually, it just was cruel and he had absorbed a fair bit to span Europe, though not really UK or East of Berlin. The Deadalus tend was busy, between the swag and the simulators young and old seemed to be getting involved with a mix of staff in everything from hoodies to full uniforms with a pretty air hostess or two giving the Rebellion girls a competitive look, especially with the Umbrella PR team going all out too. Marlins feet where probably gonna be killing after today stood up for hours, easily spotting the long Blonde hair, uniform and surprising aspect of her, she was pretty good with kids, noted by the one she was helping with a little captains hat.

---

Marlin
Marilania was enjoying her day though it was not exactly how she planned to spend hours of her Saturday working on a day she off shift. Teaching flying at this event was easy...heck they did not need them just someone who could fly. But it was compentove so they had ...just had to have the real deal.
"Valkyrie, you want any coffee? Old man's here and needs to be made more PR friendly?. May need help, you owe us a round anyway" Marinalia shook her head and followed, her urge to curse him was tempered by kids, plus she really wanted coffee. "Fine Apollo, get Athena to help too, especially if we getting for the girls up front. Glad I'm only working on this part" Much as it was fun, they were busy with a capital B and more. Free stuff, or just distrust of anything Umbrella? Rebellion had some cars on show... It looked orange, sleek and shiny. The paint job was pretty garish though. "That's the spirit, Hey Athena, supply run, Boomer can cover and keep Growler distracted. Always loved Rebellion, best race cars this yea..." Marinalia gave a small face palm, course she forgot Apollo was a part time racing nerd, the urge to drive fast was fun by nothing on flying. "you volunteered me. Spirit yeah. Prefer flying, fine...fine we can walk by. But you know how well me and anything related to a certain person goes...badly!"

Her thoughts wandering back, she hoped not to bump into the redish, pink haired lady. Her crewmates would definitely tease her over that one. She had totally jolted like a deer in headlights for a second and it was clear the taller woman was flirting. She just hoped no one got the wrong end of the stick, it was not planned or intended! Granted she was pretty with an excellent figure, but Xia had already managed to stake her claim and somehow crazy worked for them.

Jolted back once the coffee run was done, they where stood near the rebellion area, Marlin had her traditional sugar overload wafting it's scent out, soon she got dragged over to check out the competition. Apollo was casual but his racing nerd was pulled along, hoodie with flight instructor and his call sign on while Marinalia had her full uniform with stripes and badges and Athena had a company light jacket pulled over a blouse and trousers. "Porsche... Racing spec . Nice flat 6, great power to weight ratio for size, really reliable with racing trim, upgraded carbon fibre braking and more, bet this one eats tarmac like you do pure diabetes coffee. Wonder if they installed energy collection and used fly by wire for faster responses than linkages" Marinalia rolled her eyes at the car comments, they got you from A to B, helps if they looked pretty but the tech specs where lost on her. "so ...it goes fast. Still a car...Fly by wire is great, harder to feel the aircraft though. You call me a nerd? Its ... Hey, my coffee is energising. Come on Athena, back me up. Sol Bank might have some cool stuff to bid on" The other female pilot gave a laugh as they had their moment. Marlin was a swim nerd and loved flying, he loved anything fast, really they were the same. Sports nerds who loved going quickly and being free. "Valkyrie, you nerd out at the swim challenge on Ninja warrior so ... Yes, still I felt buzz like 5 hours later... Oh, it's the cute racing driver you knew, while you gush about a flat Vs V, or try to blend in dressed like you walked off VIP duty. He saw you already. Toodles

Do you mind signing something for me, just to make my racing nerd collique jealous and my little brother love me forever? He loves go kart racing and now has your number on his. Hope you don't mind, you got a well meaning copycat" Athena headed over, leaving a Marlin and Apollo by the car both working if there more normally quiet friend insulted them both or was just different out of work. Meanwhile Marlins sweet coffee scent drifted mixed in with smells of freshly polished cars and the mix of coffee and people.

All happening while the Asian Brunette tried her best to be the best sister ever, at least for a week.

---

Mentions
@Allycat@Pilatus
Indirect mentions
@Pyxis@King Tai

>>Shokugeki no Ryan<<
>>NPCs only, currently<<

The satisfyingly smooth roar of a 4.6L V8 engine can be heard in the twilight of the setting sun. The time is now Friday, the day before the festival. Ryan, seated firmly but comfortably in his matte grey Porsche 918 Spyder, deftly flipped through the gears of his electric super car. The tires gripped and tore at the asphalt as Ryan made his climb up Mount Atlas. The sun giving way to the night laid a good symphony of color behind and around him.

"Yeah? Are all the ingredients ready? Ok. Leave it in the fridge, I'll be back later tonight to prep. Later." Ryan said to a helper on the phone. So. The material he needed for the festival and the accompanied cooking competition are gathered. There are some minimal prep work that needs to be done but he has the general concept of what he is planning on making clear in his mind. Something fragrant, spicy, and exciting.

For now. Ryan flipped through the gear, up and down, and pushed his car through its limits while caressing the curves of the road, tires screaming as he does. Sure, he was driving a bit recklessly, but he needed this. He needed this to clear his mind. Both for the competition and for whatever else he has going on in his life.

Joel Nicolosi

“I’ll go get you another one.” The girl said seeing that Joel was now the only one without a coffee. There still should have been one left, but someone from the group had apparently taken two. She didn’t like for their star to be without.

“Nah, don’t worry about it.” Joel said. His attention was on a short highlight reel of the rally in Jamaica that was playing across the big screen. He watched carefully. There were a couple clips from stages where he thought he could have gone faster or perhaps put the nose a little closer to the apex as the back of the car rotated, but it would all look the same to most people: the little VW ripping down a bleached white dirt roadway in the Blue Mountains, drawing a rooster tail of dust behind it as it crossed fields of sugarcane farms. The constructed jump on the final stage was the best part and it hadn’t seemed that high being in the car. They just flew right through it. He’d let off at just the right second for the nose to come down and the car to soar evenly and they landed firmly on all four wheels like he’d done it a hundred times. That particular part was always satisfying to watch. “I could use a little walk. I’ll go get it.” He said turning his glance back.

As he stuck his hands in his pockets and turned to head out, he immediately found someone in a Daedalus uniform was right behind him wanting something signed and nearly bumped into her. “Oh, uhhh.” He glanced around momentarily for one of their promo posters to sign and caught sight of Marlin and another one of her cohorts hanging around the cars on display. When she saw him, he gave a smirk and a wink before turning back to her friend. “What’s his name?” He scribbled on the slick poster-paper as the young pilot spoke. Joel’s signature was a wild blast over the photo of the same Porsche in the display with himself standing next to it. Normally, he was very critical of pictures of himself, but the one they’d chosen wasn’t bad: A bend in the parkway road up to Mount Atlas where the low clouds had settled around the base of the mountain. They had designed a very simple black driving suit for him to go with the car for the upcoming event and he held his signature orange helmet underarm.

“You know, I once raced your coworker over there,” He said handing over the poster and tilting his head slightly towards where Marlin was standing. “In my other racecar, you should ask her about it sometime.”

@PrinceAlexus

_{LOCATION & TIME : SWAN SONGS, MONDAY EVENING
INTERACTIONS : ASSOCIATES
MENTIONS : SIOHBAN - @Almalthia, PAIGE - @Pilatus}

---

To say the least, Alejandro's week was uneventful. Although the week had started off strong with the new statistics of their business growth in Huston thanks to the work of his little sister, there hadn't been much after that. Mara and John had been able to pull some files from the Deputy marshal he had seen back in Swan Songs Records, but there was nothing special. Just names that none of them had heard of before. It almost seemed like that pig was covering something from all the files that his associates had been able to gather, but unfortunately, there was nothing noteworthy.

By Wednesday Alejandro was beginning to doubt he would ever meet up with the man who was in charge of Sol's crime ring. Mara had sent out various attempts to contact the person on day one of their arrivals. That had been almost two months ago, and there still wasn't a reply. Alejandro couldn't help but wonder if the person even wanted to do business, or if they even existed.

Soon enough, Alejandro would have to pull everything together and just look for the person himself. Hell, he would even call over his sister to help him. She was good at finding people and getting them to talk. Although, it would be best to avoid violence if he wanted to do a reputable business with the person. Besides, his sister was busy with Huston and would probably keep heading east.

His sister would be the last resort for now.

The rest of the week went as expected. Training in the mornings, meeting over breakfast with Mara and John, visit the flower shop for a few hours then headed to the back to check up their special deliveries. While Alejandro had not yet started to import drugs into Sol, his shop still served as a stop of imports that were heading up north. He still had to make sure everything was being delivered and would get to their destination without a problem. So far, there had been no signs of authorities snooping around. So far, anyway. Either way, Alejandro was always ready to deal with troublesome people.

At some point he had arranged a meeting with Siobhan, the girl with the pretty eyes, to visit his shop and photograph the place. Only the front, of course. No one was allowed behind. Store regulations, Alejandro called it.

By the time the weekend arrived, Mara had convinced Alejandro had taken take some time off. John had even offered him to take him to the local food festival. Alejandro, a bit surprised by the man's suggestion, agreed to it. It had been some time since John and Alejandro had been anywhere out without Mara's teases or her constant comments. Still, she had argued she'd still tag along to make sure there was a backup in case anything happened. With some hesitance, John and Alejandro agreed if only she stayed far behind and didn't interrupt them.

Alejandro just wanted to spend some time with John, as they use to before coming to Sol. It almost felt like John wasn't an associate and just plain old John. The John Alejandro use to like.

"Ale...jandro." John cleared his throat and pointed towards one of the stands a few feet away. The pair, plus Mara, had arrived around five or seven o'clock and had wandered around the stands before deciding on what few things to eat. That was until John pointed out a stand with the green, white, and red flags with a familiar eagle on it.

"No way." Alejandro grinned and pulled John along as he walked past people to the stand "They actually have some here, not like the other stupid stand." Alejandro looked over the Spanish menu with a small smile as John pulled out his wallet, ready to pay for whatever Alejandro was about to order.

After getting a bag of Tostilocos and some non-alcoholic Micheladas they made their way to an open space with a few benches for the people to sit on. They ignored Mara, who was had taken a seat a few feet away and was on her phone while taking a look around.

"You know, I kinda miss this. Alejandro offered some of the snacks to John, who just took a piece of a squared mango.

"Miss what?"

"Just walking around. Not having to worry too much about anything. LA was so much more fun, and we could just relax together." Alejandro shrugged a shoulder and looked away to watch some of the people walking past them.

Next to him, John furrowed his brow and continued to stare at Alejandro. "I... I miss it too, but we both have jobs to do. And we both know it would have never lasted. Your mother has expectations. You're the only one who's going to have to run this when she's too old to do so."

Behind them, they hadn't noticed Mara slipping a hand into her leather jacket and slowly making her way towards the while keeping her eyes on a suspicious individual.

"Yeah, yeah, you don't have to tell me. I hear it from her every time she calls. I was just thinking back." Alejandro rolled his eyes and leaned back against the bench. "It sucks because she actually likes you a lot."

John couldn't help but to laugh a bit. Alejandro was right. It did suck, a lot. If they weren't in this kind of lifestyle and just be normal people, they might have actually worked out just fine. Alejandro's mother really did like John a lot, and his father would have gotten around the idea. Still, John couldn't think about it too much. The ache in his chest just grew the more he thought about the "what ifs."

That's when he felt his phone vibrate three times and his phone flashed a blue color. John sat up slightly and tapped Alejandro's shoulder three times.

"Ah, if this the long awaiting meeting we have been looking forward to?" Alejandro picked up his Michelada and took a sip. "It's not the same without a Modelo." he said as he set it down.

Just a few feet away, Mara had taken a seat next to an elderly woman with one hand wrapped around her gun, ready for anything. She had seen the individual trail behind the pair since their first around the stands but hadn't thought of it much until they followed them here too.

---

When Lilith received a text back from Aria, she was already on her second menthol. Gosh, these things were not good for her; she could just plow through them in one sitting. They were a lot better than the alternative shad had been considering a minute ago. In reply, Lilith sent a happy face with a little "okay" emoji.

By the time Aria arrived, she had an arm around herself and her extra hand on her phone. She had received a call from an old client of her, someone who liked to host parties and often booked her for those private parties. She usually agreed to go. She paid well and the tips she got from her friends, but it was a bit short noticed. And Lilith wasn't sure if she wanted to take this job on after what had happened in the club the day before. No, maybe she should. Get a few days off from the club. She had enough money to last her a moth. Whatever, she'd have to call the lady back later. Right now, it was date time.

Oh, gosh, date-time.

"Hey!" Lilith put away her phone and gave Aria a cheerful smile and leaned in to give the girl a hug. "Girl, you look cute as hell." She really did! Lilith loved Aria's sense of style and color palette. Besides, those stockings made her legs look nice and long.

Was Lilith staring too much?

"I hope you're hungry." Lilith smiled and hooked her arm around Aria's as she led the other girl into the warmth and delicious mixture of aromas coming from the various stands of food. "I know I am. I didn't eat much so that we could try everything we could today." Lilith knew she was going to regret eating so much tomorrow when she was at work, but it was a date, and she was not going to hold back.

As they walked, Lilith kept her arm around Aria's, not really paying much mind to it. She was the kind of person that hugged easily and often disregarded personal space with people she felt comfortable with. It may have taken some of her friends to get used to, but most of them came around to it. Lilith only remembered that Aria was a new friend. And this was a date. Maybe.

"Ohmigosh, sorry. I didn't realize what I was doing." She laughed it off and pulled back just enough to still bump her arm against Aria's. "You're just really warm." And cute and Lilith was cold, but she didn't say that out loud.

"Anyway, do you see anything you like?" Lilith smiled and looked around them. Everything looked and smelled so good. It made her moth water and her stomach protest loudly for food.

“Come on guys, we gotta get this together. Show these people what Rainy Days is all about.” Charles calls out, moving about the kitchen, deciding to get a few packages of week old soba noodles. Knowing he had to pull out all the stops to win this competition today he got prepped for a 4 course meal with a cocktail to accompany it. He grabs some crab, cabbage, Red Argentine shrimp, Lobster tail, his house barbecue sauce, some restaurant exclusive rum, whiskey and absinthe, kewpie mayo, butter, cream, milk and several unmarked spices. Putting them in a cooler he sets out to get the rest of his food for the day.

Making his way to the festival in a full size Chevy Conversion van with 2 employees he stops by a catering store to pick up a new cart for holding food. He shows up to the festival a little late but still early in the day. He goes about setting up his employees for working the crowd, giving them the liquor and the license to go with the cart. Leaving them to the cart he heads over to the venue for the cooking competition. He starts scoping it out for later on while the festival gets into the swing of things.

---

Holy shit, this girl was adorable, and Lilith wasn't sure if she could handle it. She just smiled and wrapped her arms back around Aria's arm again, giving a happy hum when she did. Well, so far so good, Lilith guessed. If Aria was comfortable with her being touchy, then Lilith would have an easier time around the other girl. She always did show her appreciation through gestures and touches. Lilith wasn't afraid to word her feelings, but sometimes she had problems finding the right words, so the second best thing was touches. And right now, she was just comfortable having her arms around Aria.

Lilith was a bit surprised when Aria pulled her towards a food stand with Korean flags over it. As they got, closer, Lilith's stomach began to protest louder when the aroma of the food filled her lungs. It smelled so good. Korean food was something Lilith had never really tried other than Korean BBQ. That was all of her knowledge of the food so far, so she was excited to try new things — especially spicy foods. Lilith could handle a certain amount, but anything spicy always meant good food in her book.

"I can handle myself around spicy food, and it smells delicious here." Lilith gave Aria an assuring smile before peeking over her shoulder to look at some of the cooks work their magic over the portable stoves. "Ah, you don't have to be formal." Lilith laughed a bit and gave Aria a wink. "If you are recommending it, I am sure it'll be good. Just as long as I get to pay for the next thing we get."

She took Aria's hand and pulled her to the back of the line with a smile. After a second, she let go of her hand to hook it back against Aria's and leaned in closer for some warmth. Maybe she should have looked at the weather channel in the morning to see if it was going to be cooler during the evening. The air was growing a lot cooler, and now she wished she would have worn something warmer. With a small sigh, Lilith pressed her cheek against Aria's arm.

"So, do you do music as a living?" Lilith asked as they waited in line. There were only a few people in front of them, so they weren't in line for too long.

---

---

---

Siobhan and Alejandro worked out the business details of when she was going to go by and take pictures of the shop with an easy laid back attitude. They agreed that she was going to come in on Wednesday midmorning so that the light was perfect. Plus it was just after Alejandro got in some fresh flowers.

The papers had announced that there was a cooking event that would feature a Celebrity Chef Judge. Siobhan was always in the mood to see what others had come up with, even if she couldn't faithfully replicate the dishes they still inspired her to try new things. She'd tried a few out on Joel and his crew, so far no complaints. Although that didn't mean that she was going to enter. Competition was for art not food.

As Siobhan got to the park she saw Joel with a big man that looked like he was a judge. She smiled at the slightly awkward moments between the two and watched the big man take off with Joel's drink. Smirking she started navigating toward Joel. The wide legged chiffon of her pants swished with her steps. The bright red of the pants was a perfect foil for the short white vest that clung to her curves and showed off a small section of her flat blemish free stomach and her hips. Due in most part because the pants hung low on her hips and the vest was designed that way. She topped it all off with her Rebellion jacket, and gladiator sandals, managing to make the outfit appear more casual. Her hair was down and curled au natural hanging to the middle of her back floating in the light breeze.

Siobhan watched as Jole walked away from the Rebellion table and immediately ran into a fan in that wanted an autograph. She shifted the thermos with Joel's favorite drug of choice, caffeine. Her camera swung back and forth lightly as she walked. The girl was dressed in the same uniform that Marlin wore. Looking around she saw a table set up for Daedalus.

Siobhan rolled her eyes as she saw Marlin. Great. Well one can only hope that she is smarter than she was last time. Brushing the blonde out of her mind she came up to Joel as the fan was gushing over him.

Siobhan grinned at the girl and turning that grin to Joel she indicated the thermos knowing that he'd understand what was in it. She turned back to the girl. "He's pretty awesome, isn't he?"

The atmosphere was very reminiscent of Jamaica, but not quite. Still it reminded Siobhan of that trip and she blushed prettily as she met Joel's eyes. He had to know what she was thinking about.

Looking back at the girl Siobhan held out her hand. "My name is Siobhan Murphy, his better half. How are you?" 

The girl chatted with them for a while but soon hurried back to her post. Siobhan glanced over at Joel as the girl walked away. She smirked and handed over the thermos. "Thought you might need that. The only condition is that you have to share with me. So do we have a plan here or is it just enjoy?"

An Unexpected Guest

A rather large individual sat down across from Mara and the elderly woman seated at the table completely blocking her view of Alejandro and John. No sooner had he adjusted himself to the space and began making use of the condiments for his healthy portion, another pair came along behind the two men carrying a portable table between them. There wasn’t much space and there were probably better routes for them to take with the awkward load rather than directly through the dining area, but onward they pressed clumsily brushing against the those eating whilst arguing with one another about the merits of various dishes being offered across the festival grounds. The pair were gone as annoyingly as they had arrived, but as Alejandro and John returned to their meal, they find a blonde woman seated directly across from them seemingly out of nowhere. She had a haunting smirk on her face, a black shirt and an ornate bracelet that hung from the wrist that propped up her chin inquisitively.

“Hello, Alejandro.” She said. Her blue eyes were piercing, nearly without pigment. She looked at him, ignoring John. “Does your partner over there only shoot people at supper time?” She shook her head in an almost motherly form of dissatisfaction. “And I’m surprised at you. No prayer before the meal?” She looked briefly at the food set before them. “Here, I don’t mind leading.” She folded her hands out as if for them to take them before she began: “Dear Lord, before we eat this meal, we ask forgiveness for our sins, we ask that you please forgive Mara over there for not choosing a better life for herself after her whore mother dumped her into a life of gang-crime, for John here for doing things that can’t even be spoken-of aloud in public,” She paused for a breath, almost reverently, still with her eyes closed, “And especially for Alejandro, please forgive him for shooting that associate of his in the back of the head at that flophouse outside Houston, let not the image of that poor soul’s brain matter splattered over a windshield dampen our appetites, but may the knowledge of these trespasses guide their walk and may the food provide them the nourishment they need- but if it doesn’t, She continued. “Let them take solace in the fact that the LAPD, FBI and other government agencies are offering several thousand dollars for information regarding these events, funds that could be graciously offered back to you God... or Jesus, or whoever, in your name we pray, Amen.”

She folded her hands back neatly in front of her on the table and crossed her legs gingerly as her confident smile returned. “I’m Shannon.”

@Pyxis

---

"I see," Lilith smiled at Aria as she listened to her tell her about her work. Lilith respected that. Aria continued to work and follow her dreams on the side. It was something that Lilith wish she could muster the courage to do herself. Ever since moving to Sol from San Diego Lilith wished she could finish her degree, or just go back to school. "It's good that you have hope, if you keep working hard, you'll get there, Aria." Lilith gave the other girl an encouraging smile.

Just as they moved up the line a bit, Lilith's phone rang with a notification of a bell ringing. She pulled out her cracked phone out of her purse to check who it was. The name read "Ruby" with a little kissy face on the side. Her friend had texted her about Sunday's brunch, something Lilith was sure she might pass. Depending on how today went, anyway. With a hum, Lilith dismissed the notification and pulled out Instagram. "It's Costa -- here, you write down your handle, and I'll follow you back. Now Lilith was glad she didn't have any pictures from her work. Just selfies, food, and some photos of her shoe collection. And maybe some lingerie photos, but those were scattered her and there.

"I can share your music with all of my friends; they all need your hear your voice!" She had a few clients that were tied to music records; some were musicians themselves. Lilith could sneak in some samples if Aria wanted. Besides, Aria had skill that needed to be shared!

Lilith had completely avoided the question of her work. Lilith was not sure what Aria would say if she found out she was a stripper. She had to make sure that Aria wouldn't be one of those girls who would judge her for it and run away as soon as they got the chance. It was not going to happen again. Then again, Lilith could just get it out of the way and disappoint herself now than to wait later while her hopes are up. No, no, Lilith was sure Aria wasn't that kind of person. At least, she hoped she wasn't.

As Lilith waited quietly for Aria to finish ordering, she had pulled out her phone to give Ruby a quick reply. When their food was ready, Lilith watched Aria as she held her chopsticks firmly in one hand. The food smelled heavenly, and it looked like it would just melt in her mouth. Lilith was so hangry. "Like this?" Lilith did as she was told and took a bite of the meat with the cheese before eating some of the rice. There was something between a moan and a hum from Lilith as she nodded her head and looked at Aria with wide eyes.

"This is so good!" Lilith took a small breath from the spiciness but continued to eat. This was by far the best Korean food she had had in the past. She almost told Aria she wanted seconds before she remembered they were in a food festival, and there were so many other dishes they could try. Besides, they could always walk for a bit before coming back if they didn't find anything more they wanted to try. "It was delicious. Soooo good." Lilith laughed a bit as she wiped the corner of her mouth with her napkin, "Thank you,"

Paige Kennedy

Hearing the cover fall off the forklift, Paige glanced back briefly watching Tao forego sitting on the floor to rest his legs. She couldn’t blame him, he definitely wasn’t the physical exercise type.and they had covered a lot of ground. He was good company though- Hardly spoke unless it was business and whenever he did, it was with total confidence in his work. What was cute though was that he seemed to naively believe anything she said. She could have promised whatever he wanted in return for taking on the job and though her status as Federal Agent often carried the effect of trust, she could lie with the best of them. Letting him think that he had to be bribed to help her just added to the effect. Conversely, however, she thought they would have found what they were looking for long ago. The possibility that they may have embarked on a monumental wild goose chase was creeping.

Shifting her weight onto one foot, she steadied herself against a dusty pallet marked, Sol City GP, trying not to get her jeans dirty and wiggled her toes a bit under her Converses. She sighed at the momentary relief through her aching foot when Tao spoke up from the driver’s seat of the forklift. She cut her eyes over at him sharply for interrupting her temporary respite, but the quizzical look on his face was more than enough to garner her total attention. She walked over, feeling the stiffness return to her legs from the momentary break. Pulling herself up next to him she glanced at the steering column where he motioned. She didn’t know anything about forklifts other than seeing Milo operate one from time to time back in Delta City, but they usually had a key like a car or at least that’s what made sense in her mind. The machine beneath them only had a small mounted box, very much like a door transponder. “You gotta be shittin’ me...”

She glanced at Tao briefly with an exhausted sense of surprise and waved the card over the sensor. Agent Barrett’s toothy grin in the keycard photo, an image Paige loathed completely, happily brought the electronics of the machine to a pre-ignition mode with an affirmative chirp. She shook her head in astonishment. “We are so stupid…” Her eyes darted around the spartan controls: a few switches and multiple levers for articulating the forks. One worn button featured a faded image of a key and without a second thought she mashed it firmly. The engine coughed and sputtered as if trying to turn over, but died instantly. She mashed it again, harder. The same sequence happened again and the engine fell flat. “What the fuck?” She looked around, rapidly racking her brain, trying to jog a memory of the last time she had seen Milo use one of the machines. C’mon Paige! Think!

The memory struck her and her arms shot for the seatbelt, wrapping it over Tao’s waist and buckling him firmly into the seat. She planted his other foot on the brake pedal and mashed the button again. The startup sequence was much sharper and the engine calmly turned over and puttered happily. Her heart soared. YES! She looked around. It was getting interesting. There was no other doorway on the map other than the one they came in through, but the timestamps on the logsheet clearly showed another access point activated only moments after the forklift transponder hit. “It’s in here,” She said, not realizing she was clutching his arm, hard. “Start moving some of these pallets along the bottom on the far wall.” She said letting go and pointing along the interior of the room, though she stopped suddenly and looked back at him discerningly, the glance of her olive eyes narrowing. “You can drive this thing, right?”

@Allycat

Diets, Dilemas and Deep fried twinkies.

Victoria
After the hug Victoria made a short twirl, well as much as she could with her balance in the Sol Bucks selfie mirror, she had it slightly modified in England but mostly just to best fit her rather petite frame. Vintage style prices where often closer to her size anyway. "Thank you, it was too cute not to buy. Il send you the boutiques website if you want." Victoria was a little concerned by her answer regarding issues, the phone call and reactions made her a little... Not sure what was up. Maybe it was just screwy hormones making her emotions and reactions a little... Variable. "Ok, well, fun and food definitely sounds an excellent answer, may need a hand with crowds if it gets too busy..."

Victoria definitely was not a morning person, especially without her usually raise the dead, necromantic grade coffee that present events meant she was unable to enjoy. Decaf just was not the same, and herbal teas where a crutch for her normal ever present coffee mug when working. Still not the same, never, nope. Caffeine was special... Only...a rather long time. "useless in mornings. Working for myself helps, let's find something before all the good stuff gone." Quietly, Isosef kept a distance back that would not be too close and the women had their privacy, he was just making sure. Right now they were just being paranoid but it was better to be paranoid than caught short. Plus Victoria condition was such, her safety was not the only one out there and at potential risk. Too many unknowns, better off being too careful.

Isosef just felt something was about, sometimes you had a sixth sense and the Russian had long honed it to stay alive. Something about the place made his sense...blip. this place was an ideal cover for any number of things. So busy you would never know until anyone virtually screamed it. Hiding in plain sight was the greatest place to hide. Not even the best police officer could follow someone and keep track of their actions, bump passes, or any other trick old as man in subterfuge and espionage. Maybe he was paranoid. But he was alive.

Victoria looked out for a food cart and finding one that sold what she thought would cheer up Manami, good old fashioned simple yet filling, and deliciously delectable fast food. Her stomach was a little delicate and chicken was one of those foods that was simple yet so nice done properly. While waiting for wings, Manami raised a few interesting points... Friend. Yes that was a cover. Her eyes and voice gave it away
"let's grab some good old-fashioned guilty pleasure food, and talk. That's a difficult one. Umm, my experiences are very different. So, feel free to take or ignore it. My family is... Unconventional... Dad was away a lot too.

Hey, can I have some wings, mild sauce, no Indian spices though, and can the chicken be well done with a side of cheesy chips, and mayo... Some days need junk food. She's on my tab. I had an urge for delicious junk food with extra American on the side" Victoria finished her order, with a hybrid accent of Russian and English, the petite yet alabaster skinned raven heisted lady leaning an ornate cane with a sol bucks in a red 40's ladies trench coat. Some days really needed junk food, plus there was plenty of chances to try little bites, pastries and so on top of anything caught her eye. Victoria just was suddenly starving yet also delicate. Life was very confusing.

Smiling at the range in delicious smells, sauces and the constant sound of quiet sizzling chicken, freshly made each batch with care. Definitely a. Good choice watching them as they made the complicated steps seem like it was an effortless routine.

---

Finding a table and sitting down, Victoria used a little guilt at leaving someone a little frail standing to her advantage q tiny fraction, savoring her meal before turning back,for some reason, she wanted to help. Unknown reason, she was a friend, still something was pushing her to help. Partly distracted by delicious wings she turned to Manami. That sounds...complicated... Money and family is rather...toxic.

I... It's definitely difficult... How much does your friend want it? Everyone deserves their own life though, even if it might cost. Nothing comes entirely free but it's there life, not their parents to control. If you ever need to talk or hide for abit, just let me know.

Umm, my family was, is a little turbulent so my view might be.. distorted. I'm just... Feeling a few things a little, so please excuse me emotions being haywire.

What your friend wants to do? On happier news...you have to try these wings! Best I ever tasted..."

Victoria did her best to avoid a few issues, some things just made her emotions go rather much into a chaotic tail spin especially now. Victoria did not mention her mum and she tried to avoid a few other details. She did not want to scare Manami away revealing her family's more dubious aspects.

@Tyler Night@Pyxis@Allycat

---

Marinalia
Marinalia waited for her friend, though Athena was busy getting her signed poster. When he looked her way and smirked she did her best to ignore him sipping on an overly priced rather sweet coffee she was known for. Somehow they always came across each other, admitly this time she follows Athena because she wanted a poster and Apollo was a bit of racing nerd, it was near the coffee place which was her goal anyway. She needed her Caffeine and sugar perk to keep going and perky on her feet today. Even in the comfy boots. She really felt for the girls up front in heels and having to face the public so more extensively.

Absently minded watching the racing video, she really managed to miss most of that when was there. Her Jamician adventure had taken very different lines and routes. Instead of racing tracks it was a little more local and more hidden part of the country. Granted the views where pretty but she really found flying more fun than racing. Athena was up front, success. Her brother was much younger, more a fluke than planned but she took her big sister duties seriously. "Nathen, or Nate. Depending on how much he annoys me. Thank You. I'm Athena, you been by the cargo office a few times I recall. Ever need a guide. Your rather handsome so I definitely don't mind helping you...

Thankyou for the poster. She never talks about that much, Il have to push her abit" Marinalia just watched her friend, she was not quite as much of a flirt mostly because she saw the redhead sauntering over thanks to Marlins hand sign to wave off as she saw the redhead approach. "meant to be on my side Athena! Oh, I believe it was totaled up as a draw oh fastest son of Sol. Try flying dear Joel not of mine. It might make You see how much more free and exhilarating it is defy gravity and and not just understeer. Oh... I forgot Grampa Max asked me to pass on, he acquired what you needed...whatever it is if I saw you.

Good afternoon Siobhan. Hope you enjoyed your adventures in the Caribbean, the Blue mountains where rather beautiful. Despite the small upsets, your painting was rather nice and reminds me of the family house and grounds. " Athena was a little surprised and made a small drat when she saw Siobhan approach and marlins verbal que, a little dangerous to flirt with girlfriend right there. Taking the had, well she was confident."Sharon Agathon, or Athena to these folks, I'm good Thankyou Siobhan, making my little brother happy. That's Lee, or Apollo by the car, our pet racing nerd, and you seem to know Valkyrie whom you have... Past experiences... I worked with her till she got on the new 100J heavy transport...lucky so and so.

We better get a move on soon, the old man probably wondering, we cannot buy dad a few drinks tonight and call it even Lee." Lee who had remained quiet, more enjoying seeing the set up, the professional pit kit and more, Marinalia definitely was one who cars where a means to A to B not almost like a ship, each one unique machine with unique quirks. Knowing what he did from her upbringing though, she never had the satisfaction from earning your car and your freedom."Nice flat 6 racer you have here, though always preferred the Italian or British racers. Germans, great engineers, just needs more soul and passion to there designs. Swedes are just flat out crazy folk though.

Probably, and no, old man's out with Roslin tonight, so I need to be on time back. Grab a coffee on the way, that Il soften him up." Athena could not pass up one operturnity to rock the boat and the pretty Asian Pilot leaned on her toes before thanking him for the poster with a kiss on the cheek and a flirty smile. "Thankyou, let me know if you need a guide or wanna learn, I'd happily volunteer." Just because Marlin was not interested did not mean she was not perfectly willing to least leave a little memory behind and a friendly offer. "Were gonna be late, and he never noticed flirting, you need to be metal with tyres" Talking as they were leaving, it might of carried bit it was nothing that was a lie. Well maybe if you worse q short dress and had some romantic tryst on top of city hall...maybe he might of noticed.

Heading back to the Deadalus tent, lines where busy as ever for the simulators, the aviation nerds where loving models of planes through the ages they flew and the old posters. The uniform had not changes as much though, modernised but the more fitted female uniforms contrasted against there rivals more genderless offerings of late.

---

@Pilatus@Almalthia

>>Shokugeki no Ryan<<
>>NPCs only, currently. Feel free to interrupt him though.<<

The cart is ready. It has a small tandoor-style clay oven, a single wood-fired range, a small prepping station and a small dry-storage cabinet. The cart was being towed by a large, Chevrolet Silverado that practically screamed 'Murica. In the cab, Ryan had two large coolers packed with ice and various ingredients. Two more coolers could be seen as well, but these held no ice. Over bluetooth, Ryan said "Yeah, just bring the soft drinks. I have everything else. Wood? Yeah, its in the bed of the truck. We're good."

The call clicked off.

Arriving on the outskirt of the festival, Ryan checked in with the event staff and signed in. His location had been previous determined to be in the main sector of the festival. Not that it mattered to him. He is just doing this for fun now. He isn't even concerned with the competition. If the judge showed up to his stall, he or she can wait just the same, if there is a line anyways.

Parking his car, he unloaded the wood into the wood into the bottom of the clay oven, tied the four cooler onto any flat surface he can find on the cart and then went back to lock his car. Double-checking that he has all the things he brought, Ryan gave a small nod before beginning his push towards his location.

As he arrived, he wiped the sweat from his brows with the towel around his neck and parked the cart. Securing the wheels of the cart with chocks, he made some small adjustments as to how the cart would sit. Once satisfied, he untied all the coolers and arranged them in a fashion where his workflow would be maximized. Nodding softly, he squatted down and unloaded most of the wood, save for some smaller pieces. Starting a small fire, he began to condition his clay-oven and his range, wanting to preserve them even beyond this festival. Once the fire is started, he just leaves it to burn, adding wood very slowly to raise the temperature in a consistent manner. He also unpacked all the mise en place and arranged them in order. Checking in one of the coolers, he was satisfied with how the dough is proofing.

It is still rather early and his stall isn't open yet. He took out his dough, dumping it down onto the floured work surface on the cart. Kneading softly, he just wanted to elongate the gluten chain a little bit more and thats it. Once satisfied, he scrapped the dough back up and placed it back into a lightly oiled bowl and placed the entire sealed container back into one of the un-iced cooler to rest and proof a second time.

Meanwhile, the clay over is quite hot now. He stopped adding wood to let the temperature come down a bit and he does the same on the range side as well, maintaining the fire. From one of the ice-packed cooler, he took out some fresh soft tofu. Draining them slightly, he places a pot of water onto the range and lets it come up to temperature and further into boiling. He salts the water very gently while it boils. As it is coming up to temperature, Ryan dices the soft tofu into small bite-sized pieces, being mindful not to break any. Once the tofu is blanched through, he drains them carefully and places them into a bowl, storing it back into the one of the iced coolers. Next, he wiped down the pot and heated it until it was completely dry. Once dried, he took it off the heat and let it cool off before adding what looks like a preposterous amount of chili. Flakes, whole, seeds, grounds, pulp, everything. The pot was literally half filled with various forms of hot pepper. Within the blend, Ryan had chosen Sichuan peppercorn, in various ways, chili de arbol, in various forms, a little habanero for its floral flavor, and the classic Facing Heaven pepper, because he has to stay true to the dish's roots after all. Taking out a large container of oil and drained it into the pot. Once the pepper are all submerged, he placed the entire pot over the fire and lets it come up slowly to temperature in order to extract all the flavor and spice contained with the peppers.

While the peppers are getting ready, Ryan continued his prep work by starting to cut up all the aromatics such as ginger, garlic, scallions. He had some headphones on, and one can say he is in the zone. In his mind, he knows exactly what he is doing, and what he is planning on doing next. As he finishes cutting up all the aromatics, the chili oil is done. He drains some of the oil out and keeps it separated from everything else while dumping out the rest of the pot into a different container.

Here we go. The festival should be starting soon...

_{LOCATION & TIME : SWAN SONGS, MONDAY EVENING
INTERACTIONS : ASSOCIATES , SHANNON - @Pilatus
MENTIONS : N/A}

---

"No, no, she shoots only between nine to six Pacific Time Standard, but she does tend to shoot later in the evening. I mean, you should really ask her!" Alejandro looked at the woman who had apparently sneaked behind the table and sat just in time to make a grand appearance in front of the pair. There was a playful smile on his face as he put the food aside and willingly took the woman's hand. "I should really talk to her about that, shouldn't I John?" His voice oozed of sarcasm.

Alejandro had to give her credit, that had been a pretty little trick. Not many people had a touch for the theatrics and show, so he was glad to see someone who still tried to make an entrance. Alejandro was flattered, really. Oh! And the information! How Alejandro missed having potential partners being informed! Those bastards back in Huston had nothing on this woman! The more she continued to talk, the wider his smile got and the more his excitement grew. He could feel a small laugh rising from his chest when she mentioned the Huston incident.

She was good. Really fucking good, and Alejandro liked that.

"You, Shannon, are amazing." He pulled his hand back and gave the woman a round of applause that John had joined in. Behind them, Mara had stood up and lowered his hand from her gun. As she made her way towards the trio, her eyes never left Shannon's relaxed figure. While she seemed unfazed of her words towards her mother, her body was still tense at the fact she has made it so close to Alejandro. Or at least, that was she was trying to make it seem. Mara knew that giving any reaction to the woman would just fuel her and give her more motive to keep insulting her mother.

If Mara could, the woman would have had a bullet to her head if it wasn't for the obvious security around her. Someone so relaxed must have various people around her protecting her.

"Shannon, a name that has come up in the past. Connected to the Deputy Marshall Paige. John said, eyes trained on the woman's cold gaze. "Widowed not too long ago."

"Ah, that Shannon." Alejandro leaned back on the bench and crossed a leg over the other, almost mimicking the way Shannon was sitting. The excited smile had been replaced by an easy-going one. "We heard and saw your name pop-up, but all the trails went cold after seconds of digging. I'm impressed. We know almost nothing about you, and yet you know us." John and Mara had mentioned that a woman with that name would be connected to the one he was really looking for. If she was here, then that meant he was close. Although, he wondered why she was here talking to him. Alejandro didn't like not knowing.

"You are very well informed, Shannon." Alejandro turned back to look at Mara. "Although, Mara's past isn't much of a secret. Chen is a lovely woman; I don't know why would you say something like that about her. Her dumplings are one of the best I've ever had. Really! I've been to China, as you probably know already, and not even the top restaurants compare to lovely old Chen." He smiled when Mara rolled her eyes but gave a small nod. Of course, Alejandro was right.

"As for John... he is a real enigma, isn't he? So lovely to look at and yet so mysterious." Alejandro ran a hand down John's arm before looking at Shannon again. "And then you mention Julio. Ah, Julio. I do miss his stupid jokes sometimes. He always managed to crack a joke in the most inappropriate times. He had a talent that guy!" His voice fell flat and cold after that, "That poor soul deserved so much worse. What I gave him was mercy. Madre would have done so much more worse than a simple bullet to the head."

Alejandro cleared his throat as his smile returned to his features, "So since you haven't turned in this precious information to the LAPD or anyone, you must be here to strike a deal. Or a proposition. Maybe a partnership? Oh, I do love surprises! Good ones, of course!"