Paige Kennedy

The weekend following the Thirsty Thursday double-header was expectedly slow, even for the 501 Club. There were sparse few at the bar and even fewer at the tables. “Sol-Mates” may have been a distinctly uptown affair, but everyone liked a good excuse to party and the regular clientele had turned up to throw down and then call out the next day. Only the most devoted, alcoholic and utterly disconsolate populated the small club into the early morning hours. No ruckus filled the walls, only faint conversations and the distant sound of televisions repeatedly playing tired sports highlights alongside the unwavering lineup from the war beaten jukebox. The bartender, also the owner, poured another glass from tap for a customer while his only waitress played on her phone. He was on the verge of sending her home when the heavy front door opened.

Being the proprietor of a place like the 501 Club gave a man a certain access that couldn't be described. Whenever he felt like he’d truly seen everything, there was always a surprise around the corner. As insurance for just such an event, underneath the bar, hanging amongst the glasses, liquor bottles and rubber lines for the taps, was a sawed-off shotgun. When he saw the figure that came through his door, his face remained expressionless as he leaned on his elbow against the alcohol-weathered countertop looking her in the eye and, like he always did when he wasn’t quite sure which way things were going to go, felt for the reassuring steel of the barrel to be in its usual place. It was always loaded. He watched as she came through the doorway and turned to glance down the bar as if she knew exactly where to look. Even without her badge, he knew exactly who she was.

It wouldn’t have been quite as curious a situation if the man to whom he was considering selling the club wasn’t also present in a booth near the back wall along with his young bodyguard seated on the corner of the bar. The door closed with its signature heavy clamor that echoed across the whole floor and though it had banged open and shut all night, this time, everyone seemed to notice.

Yolo, who had nearly done a double take over his shoulder, got a wide grin and jumped from his stool, standing to face the woman down the line of tables and chairs. His right hand hovered over his hip where he kept a high-caliber revolver tucked old western style in its holster with the curved grip facing out, just out of reach of his slowly dancing fingers. Nikki Giancana, who had been enjoying a surprisingly decent cheeseburger happened to look up, mid-chew, when he sensed Yolo move from his seat. His mouth slowed on the bite as he looked past Yolo and made eye contact with her, the Marshal, Kennedy.

The door clamored again behind Paige as a few onlookers hastily bolted for the door while others slinked back away from the pair. Her hand rested firmly on the gun on her hip. The bartender motioned for his waitress to get out of sight, seeing her slightly spellbound by the scene in front of her. A blonde woman, not much different in age than herself, had a piercing aura about her like she’d never seen. It was nearly mesmerizing. Not like the wild brawls that typically erupted in the 501, it was measured and natural, like a predator. She could remember watching some nature documentary with her kids about wild cats in Africa or some place she’d never been, the look, it was like that, but human. She stepped back carefully behind the swinging door to the kitchen, still keeping it cracked to the outside so she could watch.

“I have to say, you really are exactly what i thought you’d be.” Yolo said finally. He kept his hand steady, but his eyes looked her up down. Black leather jacket, gray shirt, black jeans and the Converse sneakers she’d become known for wearing as the city’s most infamous law-woman. “When I first really saw you at the record store, I was only left... wanting.”

Paige huffed unimpressed. “How’s that bullet wound treating you?”

Yolo patted his side firmly with his other hand. “Good as new,” He said. “Your boyfriend can’t shoot for shit.” The playful reverence in his voice fell when he mentioned Milo.

“He still found his mark I think,” Paige said cooly. “Now get out of my way, I didn’t come here to talk to you-” She began to advance but stopped as he took a step forward to block her path. Her fingers instinctively settled over the precise grip on her gun, the familiar points where she would draw the fastest and the flow of a shot out of her hand would be near effortless. They looked at each other again for a moment as the song changed again and for a moment the machinations of the jukebox were the only sound in the building.

“This is the best part,” Yolo said. He was grinning wildly, eye settled on her. His hand hovered over the draw.

Paige exhaled almost without moving, her glance narrowed and her tilted forward only slightly. The song continued to play, but the whole floor of the 501 Club felt like it was stone silent. She exhaled slowly through her nose relaxing for the pull, if she was going to blast his bodyguard then the next stray bullet would catch Nikki right in the chest. She could make it look like an accident.

“That’s enough, Yolo.” Nikki interrupted. “As entertaining as this is, let’s see what the Marshal has to say.” He wiped his hands and tossed the napkin aside relaxing back in the booth.

Just like a switch had been pulled, the young man retracted completely as if his whole personality changed in an instant without protest or knowledge of what had even just occurred. “Yessir.” He said pushing his loosely rolled sleeves back up his arms and taking his seat back at the bar as if he were waiting for the next person that might come inside. Paige walked past him and he barely batted an eye as she sat down in the booth across from Nikki.

“Sorry about all that,” Nikki said dismissively. “I think he might be a little sweet on you, he gets that way when that happens.”

Paige ignored the comment completely, instead noticing a set of Cadillac keys on the table. “So where ya headed?”

“Oh? Why you need a lift?” Nikki replied.

“Where’d you think you were headed.” Paige replied. The momentary increase in adrenaline she felt from facing off with Yolo was wearing away quickly and she oddly felt relaxed, like he had actually helped her by being a brief distraction.

“Hmm, that sounds kinda ominous,” He said. “Getting right down to it, huh?” He was completely relaxed and crossed one leg broadly while resting one arm along the top of the booth.

“The sooner we get to it, the sooner we get it over with.” Paige said frankly. “No point in delaying the unpleasantness.”

“Oh are we headed for unpleasantness?”

“I’m going to offer you a deal,” She said. “But I’m not really confident you’re gonna take it.”

“Well, you know negative thinking yields negative results.”

Paige shrugged. “Well, it’s been an interesting last few weeks and months.”

“Well at least give me the chance to surprise you,” Nikki said. He had a certain undignified charm in his tone, that if he weren’t a murdering thug that had tried to kill her twice, he would almost be likeable. “No point starting a relationship just assuming people are going to disappoint you.”

“You’re right,” Paige said with a slight nod. “I want you to turn yourself in, confess to murder, racketeering, extortion and whatever other horrible things you’ve done.”

“Is that all?”

“You stay away from me and Milo for good, and anyone else we associate with.”

Nikki chuckled a little with a snort of amusement. “Or?”

“Or you’re gonna die in this city.” Paige said.

Nikki shifted slightly in his seat and smirked, glancing away briefly as if he were momentarily distracted in feigned consideration, “Well, you had it right not to be optimistic.”

“I’m afraid that’s the best I can do.” She could feel her heartbeat pick up again slightly.

“What kinda piece you carryin?” He asked.

“SiG 239”

“That the same one you used on my guys?” Nikki seemed at least somewhat interested in the answer.

“I killed the first one with my service Glock.” Paige couldn’t hide a tiny smirk at the answer.

“Pretty fancy kit for a Fed.”

“Well I know how to pick a winner.” She said, “What are you carrying?”

“Oh, I don’t carry a gun.” Nikki replied smoothly. He seemed slightly amused with her retort.

“Maybe you should start.”

“Why?” He snapped. “So you can have a reason?”

“Oh, I already have that.” Paige said darkly.

Nikki laughed and shook his head. “Cop threats…” He turned in his seat and rested his elbows on the table to face her directly, like he was speaking to a child. “I take one look at you and I know you’re not the type that’s just gonna execute me, it’s not who you are.” He said. “And don’t give me that bullshit story that got you transferred up here, I don’t have time for it, you roll up in here and that’s all you are, a bunch of stories and threats, knowing that if your bluff gets called you can still hide behind that badge.” He growled. “Well I don’t have a badge, all I got is my word so if I say I’m gonna kill you, your family, your boyfriend or that cunt sister-in-law of mine that you like to hang around, I’m gonna do it.” He tipped his head towards the window. “That’s all these animals out here understand and if I don’t do what I say then they’re gonna think they can come after me.” He pointed to the keys on the table. “You wanna know where I’m goin? I’m goin’ out that door and I’m gonna get on a plane to Florida and I’m gonna take care of Shannon first, but I’ll be back for you, so about the only chance you have at this point is if you take that gun outta your holster and end this, otherwise get the fuck out of my sight.”

“Well now we know each other.” Paige replied calmly.

“Threats…” Nikki again shook his head with disgust in the word.

“Relax, you’re still alive.”

-----------------------

The gravel lot of the 501 Club crunched under her sneakers as she walked away through the quiet dark. Her breath fogged as she exhaled and glanced up watching the landing strobes of an aircraft on approach to Old Sol as it passed high overhead. The lights flickered and the alarm chirped on her little M3 Sedan and she glanced over her shoulder briefly before stepping inside.

“Well what’d he say?” A dark figure in the passenger seat said.

Paige exhaled for a moment glancing over the hood into the night before turning the key to start the car. “He said he’s gonna kill me and Milo and probably my whole family.”

“Well, I pretty much figured that,” The woman said. “What’d he say about me?”

“He said you were a cunt and he’s gonna kill you first.” Paige replied. “But he thinks you’re in Florida.”

Shannon looked briefly at her own reflection in the passenger window, the curved features of her face and loose hair partially illuminated in the interior lights of the gauges as she thought. “That gives us some time then.”

Runways, Race cars and the Rumba

Marinalia
Victoria just got off the phone to the lawyer and sighed, the fact they had already used them twice in a short time was not exactly great was it? Trouble seemed to be magnetic and pull to the sisters. "Thanks. Yes. Sol Memorial Medical Center, Not sure, just find out what you can, not sure if we need you but better safe than sorry." Closing the call and probblyneould be home if some monster had not decided to get there fun beat in up a woman. Merlin's face told it all, things where not exactly minor or just a few bruises, if they contacted her? Who was the emergency contact? What on earth was going on?

Suddenly noticing Ryan as she remained distracted on the phone and not thinking it had taken that long or sat on hold for however long it was. "Oh, hey Ryan, Mali not scare you off, you seem a little nervous?

Sorry, Marlins girlfriend was hurt, had to arrange some support. Took a while. Busy night it seems." inviting him to sit down and giving a light kiss on the cheek as a greeting that came naturally. "So, you alright? Seem a little shaken up?" Victoria was fairly attentive to things around her, she had to be being more frail and also to see problems coming up or avoid sections that would be less stable to lean her weight on a somewhat narrow rod with a handle.

"umm mind walking me to my Uber later? I had it booked earlier but that was before Marlin had to go?

Umm? You meant that text? Because. Oh fine. You want truth...I do not want to see you hurt because of me... I do not know how E... They may react, or who they know. Let's just say I suspect something strongly. I just want to warn you. You been a friend.... And I try to look after them.

I don't want someone else to pay for my crazy life twists and turns. My family take a little getting used to." Victoria just did not want to scare him off but he had got far enough that she could not really lie to him either. "You really want me when I'm Pregnant, by someone else, and your nice, well-off, and probably have a dozen other women by just cooking a meal?" ok, a little self depreicating but it was good to make it clear. Seriously confusing question.

Why did he like her? Most people would run a mile from her given her situation and how much crazy things happen to the sisters. Why? Why would someone want to volunteer for that? Xia was a pretty amazing person to stick by her sister regardless of everything and helped her heal. Placing a tiny hand in comparison on his to reinforce the point and jog his brain to reply to the Raven haired and pale grey eyes woman.

Should she tell him about her family. Or what she did? Had she scared him off yet or not? Was he really that crazy to join her shenanigans.

"You not run off yet... I'm not that scary hopefully. Maybe when i first had to quit my morning coffee." laughing with her distinctive mix of English and Russain accents. Trying to break the tension. She really eas not a morning person, quitting caffeine cold turkey was rough and anyone before 11am or so had learned to leave her be for first week. Her pink and purple vertical highlights where beginning to fade to the tips to just it's intense natural black darker than a moonless night.

She still was rather worried about her sister and Xia who condition was unknown. Obviously not good situation, it was rather scary if they contacted her girlfriend. Did she have family... She mentioned a cousin? But he was potentially unreliable. Her mother and father according to Marlin lived on the other side of country. That must be pretty horrible for them not knowing what's going on.

Turning back to Ryan it was concerned, the few times she met Xia, well she was nice. Her energy was rather infectious. "Soo... How you finding fame as the iron chef of Sol?" Smiling, a silly question but a little distraction from all the worrying thoughts.

Mentions
@Infinite Cosmos

Even though the calls have gone out to 2 people, Marlin and Xia's mother, Xia was still out cold. The poor girl has a broken right hand, damaged in two places. Contusions all over her body, bruises, cuts that needed sticking on her face, a nice shiner on her left eye, busted lip, broken rib and 2 bruised ones, a concussion, internal damage as well. All in all....she was fucked up. Xia has not awakened since what happened to her and after Marlin got there, Xia had a dream she was hearing her speak to her.

The nurse filled marlin in on her condition. It was critical but stabilized some and in time, she'll heal. They didn't know when she'd wake up but they were going to need her to stay a few days to keep watch of her. They were hoping she wasn't epileptic or anything serious like that but they needed to know some things about Xia. her mother was able to provide the information being how close she was with her mom, she was the emergency contact. Her mom was going to have to make a trip up there but for the time being, she was going to call up Carlo. Carlo was on the phone with her.

Auntie...I was at work, I didn't know this shit happened or I would've murked dem motha fuckas on sight. I'm on my way to the hospital now. Wait....marlin's already there? You talk to her on the phone and I'm now just getting this information. Look I know that snow bunny is her girl and all but I'm family. I mean I'd love to be in the loop too! Auntie...I'm not raising my voice at you...just kinda hurt and I'm pissed off my cousin got got like that. I'm gonna find out who did this and show them how we do shit in South Florida. Auntie don't worry about that. let me handle it. I'll talk to you later...I gotta go alright. I love you... Hanging up, Carlo was cursing as to why Marlin was contacted first? Then the fact that Xia's mom contacted Marlin after Marlin made it to the hospital, they didn't waste time calling him up.

As he would get to the hospital, he rushed over.Xia Alexander... He said as the lady looked her up and was given direction to find Xia. He rushed to the room and minutes later, he came in to see Marlin. Hey....crazy how you were called before I was even called. How fucked up is she? Asking her about Xia's condition as he went over to look at her and his expression changed to sadness after worry to see his cousin in this state. She of course, was still out but Carlo was getting pissed the more he looked at her. Yo Marl....you know who did this? And do you know who found her? I wanna know if they saw anything... He asked. Carlo was getting back to that thug mentality he had back at home wanting to find who did this so he could settle the score in a brutal way.

@PrinceAlexus

Night time Nargles

Marinalia
Marinalia was shocked when she had found out how extensive her girlfriend's injuries were, broken bones, concussion, internal and external injury. The Nurse just kept going down the list as the shock grew. Thankfully the nurse asked her to sit down first before she told Marlin.

Before she fell asleep Marlin answered Xia's mum saying she was at the hospital and someone had made it given how they were over a thousand miles away. Plus Xia's mum had been rather kind to Marlin when they met so she owed it to her to keep her in the loop. Her accent was clearing broadcasting her concerns and fears through a determined edge when it came to saying she had invited her to stay if she needed it and that offer was open regardless what she needed or the cost incurred doing it. She was going to look after the Island girl just as well as she had helped the English Biscuit.

A mostly asleep Marlin who was barely conscious jolted awake somewhat and looked over to see Carlo blinking her eyes still adapting to the light and transition with no real resolve to argue being woken so abruptly subconsciously giving the hand she was still holding a little squeeze hoping she realises someone there. "Carlo? Give me a second to wake up. I'l be back hon, not going away." Not even leaving the statement a option she gave Xia a gentle kiss on her undamaged section of cheek and got up stretching by walking round room, though gave a minor glare at his look at her in a shorter skirt, long legs, fitted top and leather jacket that had been her pillow on wall. She did not have the mood for flirting and pulled a cracked but serviceable phone out her handbag that was clearly identified by the case as to the owner "somehow they found her phone at scene dropped and missed or passed over. It was not hard to work out we were a little close. You might want to sit down and bring us some coffee, it's not a shortlist or simple situation." Much as been... Well, an asshole at the time it was obvious despite the arguments her cousin did care about her when shit hit the fan so softened her tone and handed him a note for the overpriced machine.

Waiting for him to return she nipped to bathroom thankfully a kind nurse had offered some supplies to remove most of her makeup so was not feeling so awful and looked less a mess. She really owed them a fruit basket. Heading back in she waited for Carlo holding Xia's hand and rubbing little circles into it hoping she notices and wakes up. All the machine and her being out was terrifying in a gut-wrenching way. "Thanks, i needs a pick me up.

She hurt bad, not yet woke up and might not be tonight. Her hands gonna be a few months to fully heal at least. She is so strong... How can she be so hurt..." Sadly sighing and explaining the rest as best she could, it was a long list of injuries. It was very obvious she did not go without a real fight. "Getting angry at me not help, and no one else is hurting Xia more than she is... Quit being a twat. sit down and drink your overpriced coffee..." Her eyes glinting ice-cold deep grey pits of doom and a clear steely and rather a crisp accent. Much as she wanted to see someone pay, she was not taking shit for someone else. "Who? Who is pretty unknown right now. Whoever did it took her bags and vanished pretty fast. There was something, she felt like someone following her, something... Off. back of your hairs on neck sticking up shit. Things missing and just something wrong. She was going to my house because the security of the manor is quite a bit stronger.

A week so we could relax, life got in the way, work out what to do. Did not want her to leave really. I was worried about her, she finally took me up on the offer. Then this...." Cursing the situation, she was meant to be safe and cuddled in marlins arms, not like this. "Found her... Some man... Oh.. And a Uber driver. He was due to take her to my place. Not tell me much, I'm her girlfriend, not officially on lists. You may be able to get names I cannot.

I'm gonna turn a blind eye. We both know what end you want. I will look after her though, I owe her for helping me out a dark hole, I'm not letting her down now." Making it rather clear, Marlin was not going away anytime soon and Carlo would just have to get used to it. Besides she promised her mum she would look after Xia and that was not one she was going to break. It was clear, he had the same look she saw in the men her father worked with. Carlo was not exactly out for handing someone over to the cops. She knew the whole snow bunny reference, though gave a little smirk that thr bunny was currently a rather protecting Polar Bear or artic wolf instead.

Mentions
@King Tai

>>Vika, at the Old Starboard @PrinceAlexus

---

Taking a seat next to Vika and offering a small smile at the casual greeting, Ryan waited for Vika to finish speaking.

Still just a friend, huh. Ryan thought to himself. Perhaps it was a simple choice of words, perhaps its exactly what Vika meant to say. In any case, Ryan took it to heart.

"Um, why don't I just take you? Sure, a Vespa might not be as comfortable as a Uber ride perhaps, but its definitely cheaper, and quite possibly safer. Well... It'd make me feel better anyways, knowing that you for sure got home safely." Ryan said, offering to take Vika back himself.

"I would be as bold to ask you to stay over at my place but you might not be too comfortable there. Quite the bachelor pad, I'm afraid. Lacking the necessities that you've no doubt grown accustomed to. Um, yeah, the restaurant. Its been fine. Nothing I can't handle. We don't typically take walk-ins so its been manageable. Though, I've been thinking about shutting her down for a bit, taking an extended sabbatical of sorts. Get out of this town, clear my mind, ya know?" Ryan said, taking a sip of the water in front of him.

"All the things you've mentioned. It is not my place to judge or pass comment. It was during a time where we had absolutely no connections. Whatever happened, has happened. They're in the past. So. All I want is an answer. You know the question. You know where I stand on it. Yes or No." Ryan said, face stoic.

"And about that morning coffee. I've been told that I make quite the spread for breakfast. Or I can, rather. I guess you'd have to answer me to find out."Ryan said, offering a small smirk.

Regardless of how Vika answers, Ryan's offer to take her home personally will still stand. Just.. His actions might be slightly different.

Runways, Race cars and the Rumba

Victoria
Victoria smiled, yes that might be a bit basic but it would get about and she was feeling a little vulnerable realising what happened to Xia only a few hours ago. Vespa? It certainly was a contrast from the classic American model he was driving before. Her Bentley was not the most practical for city traffic but it did pass the comfort factor by a wide margin. "Thankyou my knight in chefs whites. You look good in them." Giving him a gentle peck on the cheek in thanks and resting her head on his shoulder a short time, long black hair cascading down and contrasting greatly with the whites.

What did he thank she needed? Did he even know what an female considered requirements? Ok, yes she had grown used to a few comforts and luxuries that made life nice. He probably thought one shampoo and body wash was perfectly normal and that you could maintain a clear bathroom side... "I might be used to a certain standard of living, though I'm not a bad guest. I'm sure it's perfectly comfortable. Forward, you're confident in your charms. I'm not too far on park view if you want to return me to my tower oh brave knight and willing to brave a more feminine home as an alternative.

Except for brunettes whom seem to wander in perhaps? everyone needs a break, you need time to look after self. Being your own boss has a few perks. Apart from the Embassy love meeting mornings, and I'm not exactly my best." Victoria was teasing, ok teasing fairly heavily as her dark grey eyes sparked with a little fun. Smoothing out her black and white dotty 50's style dress with leggings under for warmth that made her look a bit gothic pin-up girl, that was the intent anyway and adjusted her long starless night back hair to lazily cascade down her back with subtle waves that had taken way longer than Ryan would ever understand. She had not planned anything just wanted to look nice tonight for the fun of it, it seemed fate was pushing other ideas her way.

"fair warning. Im, not a morning person. If you're sure you want me. I prefer a continental breakfast, decaf, 1 sugar and cream. just to let you know." Deciding a rather clear answer though the fact he was over 6 foot and she was under 5 foot took a little creativity, something she had got used to being 4'9 and a fun challenge. Giving a little smirk and sparkle in slate grey eyes sliding over to perch on his lap with skirt rising a bit and being rather lighter than she probably should be. Taking the initiative she wrapped her arms around his neck to steady self and kissed him rather directly and pushed back into the seat a little. Breaking the kiss after answering his question with a cheeky smile though kept her arms around and kept things rather hard to miss. "Need that in writing or that enough? I can remind you if you like"

After a making most of her little position and flirting and slid off carefully as it seemed Victoria had made answer perfectly clear. Resting her head into his shoulder, Ryan made a handy comfortable spot. "your comfy, bad time to be hungry for a snack." Victoria certainly had a far more interesting evening than she was expecting.

...

Glancing over to her friend, well what did she call him now? Eh, that would have to be a choice for later. She had 2 languages to choose from. About other matters, her whole brain seemed to have been over worse right now and that could wait for later.

Turning to see a beep on her phone flashing and glanced to see it was her friend. She had very much enjoyed there outing to the mountains and the relaxed hours just talking, though not normally at this house. She slept earlier for her beauty sleep.

Swearing in Russain under her breath and noting Ryans confusion with a side glance but dealing with her initial plan first. Paige. Marlin knew Paige and she had a... reputation that had spread far, further and deeper than maybe she even knew. While many unsubstantiated claims she had a reputation more like a veteran old west sheriff and a relentless hunter once you fell foul of her. If half was true... "Some asshole is scaring my friend. Stalker maybe... She the model I went for afternoon tea with for lunch. I'm helpless right now to do much...". Marlin, sending her a message, hopefully, she had wifi... No, wait... Wait... Marlin sent her a photo one time a few months back on what's app about the whole surprise... Same phone. Yay, she forgot to upgrade! Go brain.

Victoria thanked her rather excellent memory at times, attaching the photo to a text message to Manami. It was rather frustrating how little she could do to help in practical terms. "Manami, you got anywhere safe to crash for a night or few days until you can make it secure? Change the locks and all that's shit? If it's safe to do so? Or barricade the door for the night and so until you can do anything?

Umm... Stuff missing, creepy feeling, odd message or that shit? It's pretty creepy and majorly not normal! Be careful Manami!

Call Cops if you need to, the number on card, Marshal, tough one. You be safe if she comes! She hunted down the trash who hurt my sister.

Stay safe! I could send Isosef over in the morning? Let me know and I'm and him over to pick you up! " Victoria hit send, there was not much she could do at all, that was not Good. So very not good. First Marlin and Xia, now this, why did this city have to have so many fucking weirdo's!

Sighing and resuming her comfortable position. "Why... Why are there so many nutters in Sol it seems? Sometimes I wonder why Mali chose this place of all places."

Mentions
@Otterpop@Infinite Cosmos

Carlo fueled with anger and ready to handle whoever did this to his family, stared Marlin down when she woke up. Yeah, he was that rude guy that would wake your ass up in the middle of your sleep to argue or start some shit only because he was petty like that. When Xia's English love spoke, he gave her a smug expression on his face when she mentioned that at the scene finding her phone, which, on the phone, she had more texts towards 'Marlin (Aka Future Eng. Wifey)' on her phone and 'Mommy', it was definitely the case that they'd call those two first. Carlo was on her phone which read 'Bastard' as his contact name so of course no one would call him.

Carlo folded his arms man I ain't doing shit for you, I'm not fuckin do-boy. He said to her as like clockwork, his aunt called him back Yeah auntie? I just got here...I'm talking to her now...auntie you can't be serious? I'm not doing that! I- but-....yeah...love you too... he hung up and asked what she wanted. his aunt basically told him that whatever marlin needed, accommodate her to make her comfortable since she's likely going to be with Xia the whole time taking care of her. He knew if Xia's mom called Marlin and he was not being a help to her, his mom would call him and he'll never hear the end of it. The fuck do you want in your coffee? He asked and then went to go and get it like a good boy.

When he came back and gave her one, He checked her out and heard all about how bad she was and how she has not awakened yet. he was still being mean when he pretty much shoved the coffee to her and still cursing from what all he heard, the way she spoke to him, he looked over. Just because I got you some damn coffee, don't mean you can order me around alright. I'm gonna help you with shit because my aunt said so and it's for Xia's sake. And then this person that did it....something don't seem right. She's a friendly ass person and cool with everyone. The way she got fucked up, it had to be more than that. they wanted her to suffer. If they just wanted her bags, they won't go that damn far to take it unless if had gold or some shit in it. You said she felt a bit off right? like something was following her? I didn't hear anything about this shit until now and didn't know she was in any real danger. He told her.

So...that person is obviously still out there. I'm still pissed and i don't like that I'm being kept out of the loop. So...if I'm gonna be helping you with her, then do me a favor and keep me informed. He said. her attitude towards him was scary but his anger was making him stand firm. And you said it was an uber driver right? i'll ask what he looks like and if anyone have seen some suspicious shit. I wanna find out if she's been around someone that wanted to mess with her too. he told her.

He had to give it to Marlin though, his hood mentality and trying to be hardcore was not working because this girl was going to keep his cousin on lock and that was the bottom line and with his aunt backing her, there was nothing he could do about it.

Xia gave a groan, slightly moving her head but she didn't look like she woke up yet. Carlo came over. "Cuz...hey..." he said as Xia's fingers slightly moved to hold onto Marlin's hand but it was a very weak hold. She groaned some more as the morphine was in her system and opened an eye lazily barely can see. ba-by? She whispered

@PrinceAlexus

>>Vika, at the Old Starboard and beyond @PrinceAlexus

---

Oh the answer was clear alright.

Ryan, after the...impromptu...interactions, felt much more comfortable, and at ease. He naturally wrapped an arm around her waist to steady her slender figure.

"Well. I wouldn't go so far as to call myself a knight. Maybe a lowly commoner that happened to end up with a princess." He quipped. "Well. My continental breakfast isn't exactly continental... Its more... Oriental. If anything. However, the decaf I can manage. Or I can make tea. We all know thats how we ended up here in the first place." Ryan continued, offering a small, subdued chuckle against the background sounds at the Old Starboard. Ryan offered a soft smile that turned into a more...mischievous smirk as he leaned in to offer a more personal answer to one of Vika's questions "I'm sure you'd want a snack when I get done with you." Giving her cheek a small peck, Ryan pulled away and continued "Park View, thats The fancy part of town. Are you sure your family would be ok with you bringing who is essentially a stranger home?"

Maybe that was too far. No matter. Whats said has been said. Considering the familial circumstance, Ryan isn't so sure about spending the night over at her place, if that is indeed what she is offering. Sure, Ryan has made something of himself, and is living comfortably. But, his level of comfort isn't quite comparable to what Vika's family is used to or could offer.

As Vika slid off of him and answered a text message, Ryan took a quick sip of water as Vika began to explain the situation. "Manami? Thats not good. Do you want to go to her? I can take you? Is she going to be alright?" Vika might feel Ryan's hand tighten ever so slightly around her waist.

"Nutters, or not. Its sort of home now, no? In any case, we should get moving. Whether you want me to take you to Manami's or we can head home."

---

---

---

Ethan sat there and listened to Victoria and her sister talk about the fact that Victoria had commitment issues. He pocketed the small velvet box that he’d gotten while he’d been away in France. It was an engagement ring french-set halo diamond band engagement ring. Apparently he hadn’t needed to spend a cool sixteen thousand dollars on Victoria to apologize for being away for so long and possibly solidify a relationship. He watched Marlin run out like a bat out of hell and raised his eyebrows. Well what in the world was that about.

He soon found out why he hadn’t needed to bother with spending anything on Victoria other than the cost of a lawyer to get his kid from her. Something was going on with this Ryan person. Something that Victoria was being a trifling little gold digger over. Maybe I’m overreacting, or maybe not. He thought as he listened to Ryan ask Victoria point blank if she was in or out.

His opinion of the little tramp was confirmed as she kissed Ryan in answer to the question as to whether or not she wanted Ryan. Apparently the little whore was stringing him along for what… maybe three days? She spread her legs for me within the first few hours.

Ethan finally stood and flipped back the hood of the hoodie that he had on and took off the sunglasses that hid his piercing blue eyes. “Isn’t it nice that she picked someone that the baby might just look like. Or resemble so that she could claim that you were the father.” Ethan looked Ryan in the eye then moved down to Victoria who was in Ryan’s arms. “So nice to finally see your true colors Victoria. I guess you can start calling me Athos Lady De Winter.”

Ethan tossed the velvet box on the table and it slid a little ways. “I guess you got what you wanted out of me and moved on. Sit let’s talk? No? Oh yeah that’s right you’re on your way out. Well Ryan she’s already pregnant so you can’t get her more pregnant. So I assume that you don’t need that custom sixteen thousand dollar engagement ring straight from France since it’s likely I dodged a bullet.”

Ethan looked back over at Ryan. “Nice to meet you Ryan. I’m Ethan Aster. Victoria is pregnant with my child. Don’t worry I’ll let you take her off my hands and no need to worry about the baby getting in the way. Her corrupting influence won’t be anywhere near my child. Consider yourself a surrogate Victoria. Unless you want to actually make the choice between the two of us? By the way if you chose him you lose my child after they’re born.”

Night time Nargles

Marinalia
Marinalia aka the Future Eng. Wifey refused to back down and a protective instinct kicked in refusing to give an inch despite the fact Carlo was trying to intimidate physically and aggressively pushing the coffee at her. Backing down was not an option, she cared for Xia more than most probably thought and likely did not think she would stick about. "Coffee, milk one sugar please. I'm too tired to argue over coffee." Marlin despite her light sleep and small yawn. It was very late and she had probably been up on and off getting on for 16 hours straight and not a calm late evening. She was not leaving till Xia woke up, she would not leave her like this. Fuck no.

Once they both returned, Marinalia rubbed her forehead and downed two paracetamol to blunt the growing headache that was making her feel like the close to a day without any deep sleep. "Help, thanks. I was... Attacked badly when I was younger. You better expect Xia could be shaken up badly. She might not be Xia you remember for a while" Not revealing her scar but being honest with Carlo, Xia might not be badly affected, she might be a complete mess, it be seen when she woke up and was off the major pain killers.

"Not sure, all i can say is it makes no sense... They left her phone, took her bag of clothes that hardly high resale. Even I know stolen shit sells for a fraction, and a fraction of low is worthless.

No cast solid proof you can take to a judge. Just a bad feeling, things not quite right. We were staying at mine this week. I really was worried. I voted her over as my home has more security, cameras, gates and sensors the works. It was her to tell. I was not going to break her trust. This has... Forced it.

Fates a... Fate must hate me... We were going to talk about exactly this. I won't her healthy and bastard punished much as you do..." Marlin was not in a mood to give an inch but she also realised he was least meaning it, he wanted to help, better try to be civil if she stuck with Xia, Carlo was about too. "Il keep you in the loop before her phone gave in, I'll try to have it fixed. last thing was the Uber and a message to me. Got my lawyer checking things too, just making sure there's no problems. Xia not be in a state to answer questions for a while don't even dare." Adding a steely tone to the end of her sentence, she really meant it, Xia's mum asked her to look after her. She was not reneging that promise.

Her emotions currently running raw and at the very surface soon took a rapid change feeling a squeeze on her hand and hearing her weak but very familiar voice, crying at the fact she woke up and returning a gentle pressure on her hand giving a kiss on the forehead. "I'm here baby. Hey. Stay. Still, you got pretty badly hurt. You in hospital honey. Carlo made it here and worried about you, you safe now. Just lie back." Trying to keep her from moving too much so not make self worse carefully as possible, with her voice making her concerns and worries completely clear. Shaking, worried but also relieved she had woke up. Marlin was scared deep down she might not have. "Your mum asked me to look after you, and I mean to keep it". Catching Carlos glance, he had not really seen them together much it major details or events, though she was beyond caring what he thought or about how public her display of affection was between extreme emotions and sheer tiredness not giving many fucks. "umm... Yes, we might be a little closer than you realised if your eye brows up near the roof are saying anything." Joking weakly in a small way to try and soften things.

Mentions
@King Tai

Paige Kennedy

As usual, she couldn’t sleep. Not that her sleeping patterns were ever anywhere near consistent. It was the nature of the profession that she had chosen and she was used to it. One had to take it when they could get it, however the catch was always wanting to sleep. Sitting in her car outside the Luna Sports Facility, she felt completely awake while her mind assembled and deconstructed a puzzle that she knew she didn’t have all the pieces, but that the final image was becoming more clear, almost touchable- a prize for which no one, other than herself, was going to attain. She was darkly sure. Crossing her arms as the radio played, she sank down in the reclined driver’s seat peering slightly over the steering wheel at the mostly deserted parking lot. The LSF gym was open 24/7 and she considered going in to burn out whatever physical and mental energy she had left which would be far more productive than continuing to sit still as much she enjoyed the machinations of her time alone. The prospect of taking care of two things at once was hard to resist and the idea of burning away calories whilst running atop a literal pile of untraced cash that she possessed sole control over was amusing in a way that she liked to enjoy.

The thought brought about the same swift counter from the back of her mind that it always had in that she hadn’t spoken to her father in at least a couple of weeks, since before she and Tao had made the discovery. While she had no doubt that Tao would stay quiet, she knew her father would easily sense something was out of the ordinary. It was a trait she inherited from him. Florida was three hours ahead and it was doubtful he would answer, but he would call back and she wasn’t sure she wanted to hear what he would have to say. Her thumb flipped through the myriad of contacts on her phone until she found the one that simply read, Daddy and looked solemnly at the two numbers, Home and Work. She sighed and stared at the screen for a moment. It’s the right thing to do. She thought to herself as her thumb hovered over the call button. It’s the right thing, just do it.. A voice repeated in her mind. She exhaled and relaxed back into the headrest staring up at the ceiling of the car glancing over at the front entrance to LSF from the corner of her eye. Okay. She picked her phone up to call when she found a new text staring back at her:

> Hello, My name is Manami Takahashi, I was given your card from a friend of mine who said you could help me. I'm pretty sure that I have a stalker but I don't want to get a bunch of police involved...um, if you could help me in anyway than it would be much appreciated. <

It took her a second to snap back into reality and she had to read the message twice. She had only given her card to a handful of people outside law enforcement since arriving in Sol and the number was local, which meant it had to have been fairly recent. Considering she had only just seen Nikki Giancana face to face, she was fairly certain the message was a genuine request and not a trap. Such an innocent looking ruse didn’t match his style. A quick google search of the name seemed to confirm her assumption, but what she found wasn’t at all what she expected, though it easily fit the nature of the message’s request. Paige hated social media and these girls that sold themselves for the money and attention of strangers made it no surprise this one had trouble with a stalker. Still, she couldn’t ignore it. Someone had thought enough to give the girl her information so she felt bound to keep her end of the bargain. She fired a text back:

> Hello Manami, Yes I can help you. I am downtown right now. Are you somewhere nearby? I can come to you.<

@Otterpop

Runways, Race cars and the Rumba

Victoria
Victoria giggled, she was rather much enjoying her self and the back and forth. Princess, maybe not, but she was a lady, a maybe not quite lady like lady, she rather much had more fun not being a prom and perfect princess. "Well, Princess Victoria expects a gentleman to sweep her off her ones feet. Anything I've not cooked is good by me... I'm a little less skilled in the culinary arts than I am building security systems." Park View, well yes it was a little high end but it hardly was colonial times or the era of the Tsar. "its my sisters home technically at moment, just me Mali and Isosef has his own small apartment in a annex building. My dad lives in England unless he at sea with my. Wait step mum now. My family is a little... Unique. Dad works for a interesting profession.

Strangers are only friends we have not made in your case." Giving him a smile, yes her family was a little well crazy, strange and different. Though that was all normal to her. Marlin technically controlled the home, especially since she inherited a fair bit off her grand mother and the one whom the home was one of her favourites. It was only right in a strange way she controlled it. Her inviting Xia to move in? He doubted Marlin would hesitate to offer her shelter if she needed time to recover.

Victoria felt his arm tighter round her waist, obviously he was concerned about the matter. It was scary it could happen to anyone... No one was immune from the crazies. "No, we have no plan, your scooter only seats two. Paige is... I may not like her but she will handle it if there's trouble.

Your noble steed awaits sir knight after I send a missive to my fellow lady in distres." Trying to make light of the worst, there was nothing she could do easily to help. Not directly anyway. "OK, just stay safe OK. Yeah, fame has a real darkside. Call her, please. Rather not see my friend hurt. OK, let me know if you need me to though. Friends help friends even there in a tight spot.

LVDR x" Victoria signed off her text and hit send then the whole happy wave that existed, died a horrible screaming abrupt death as it ran into a solid wall of porcupines on meth.

Turning round recognising the voice and dark grey eyes turning to ice, she really was not sure if Ethan had her best interests at heart. The reveal, it w as a huge house, there house with 2 private floors. He close the moment in front of the press. Then the video, that was plain suspicious. When you narrows it down very few knew what they did, few knew much about the upper floors of there home or which bedroom she chose. It was the first major event there in decades. Somthing was just not right. They had to have a reason to attack the system, it was hardly simple or hardly one that would make them a fortune like a bank..

Urgh, she hated mysteries. "I have never claimed whom is the father nore tried to pretend whom they are. I value my privacy, nore do I want to drag in the stinking gutter realm of the press.

Athos was also a Alcholic, who died alone losing his son in a war. But luckily I do not have a illigimate son to challenge you to a fight to death." Victoria dew her name from the book as did the rest of that group, she had read it and least one of the sequals. When you spent so long in hospitals waiting for appointments you need to do somthing to keep entertained.

Talk, maybe they should have but also he was one to talk too. They had one bar fight, a night of passion and a rather intense outdoor exercise session. This was a rather fucked up mess, granted she had not helped it at all but he hardly had kept up communication or even asked how she was. "We do. However fucked up we cannot exactly press control Z, the buns already in oven.

You left me to handle this alone Ethan. You left me to be worried, to have to change my entire life, job and more. You never asked about my appointments, or the risks I'm at...

Engagement... Ring... I might be no nun or white virgin but that's, somthing different. That was... That was you not even know... You not even knew anything about what that carries with me." Victoria was in a rather... This situation was a mess, she just wanted to go home, curl up and forget tonight ever existed. Xia hurt, her friend maybe stalked now this...

Then came the... Well the worst. Nope. She was not giving up, backing down or rolling over. No, no fucking way was she going to surrender her child, she had a not so small fortune, resources at her disposal and a rather stubborn family behind her. "I might not be a doctor but it takes two to make a baby. I have rights and you have no evidence, I should know as I spent past several weeks confirming citizenship issues because im legally dual.

So... If I choose anything but you want me to, il lose my child, and your basicly going to blackmail me for years like this right? . How gentlemanly of you Conte le Fare in the short answer.

Abuse, controlling and manipulation. Hmm.. Why do I see a large red flag? No. I'm my own person. Not yours, no one but my own. I'm not some. Barely 18 girl just out of school. If you think il back down over my own child or give them up without using every resource at my disposal to destory any threat, you more a fool than this cities major." Victoria's accent taking on a rather cold edge. Heavily laced with Russian and growing more emotionally charged. Victoria really was seeing a darker side to Ethan that really have her reservations about him, serious reservations.

Mentions
@Almalthia@Infinite Cosmos

>>Vika, at the Old Starboard and beyond @PrinceAlexus Ethan, briefly @Almalthia

---

Ryan's motions were halted by the introduction of another man. So this is the father of Vika's child. The absentee. How did Ryan know that he would eventually show up...? No matter. His presence is annoying enough. His words couldn't make it any worse.

"Ah, Ethan, nice to meet you, finally. Vika has told me... well.. nothing of you. Convenient of you, to happen to get her pregnant, to happen to appear back in the cities at a moment where she is most vulnerable. How gracious of you to allow me to take Vika off your hands. However, we're all adults here. You need not allow me anything. I think Vika chose for you, and by extension, me. Now, As you can see, we're on out way out. It has been a long night. We will be leaving now. Have a good evening."
Ryan offered a soft smile, and a half bow/nod. Seeing the velvet box slide a little on the smooth tabletop, Ryan chuckled slightly.
"An expensive piece of jewelry, to be sure. Whats next? Are you going to claim that the content of that box is passed down from your dead Nan? Has been in your family for generations? Your mom would want the woman of your dreams to have it?" Offering another sound best described as a blend between a chuckle and a scoff, Ryan continued "Sorry to disappoint whoever gave that to you. If you bought it, I hope you kept the receipt." Taking Vika's hand, he essentially pushed his way away from Ethan and whatever table they were sitting at and headed for the exit.

Try something. I beg. Just try something. Ryan thought to himself. Leaning in to Vika, but still within earshot of Ethan "This enough sweeping for you? I think its best if we ended up at my place...."

Paige Kennedy

Paige’s expression remained unchanged as she watched the message bubble ripple with a nearly automatic reply and then expanded into another message from Manami. You need to call him. A persistent voice continued to repeat in the back of her mind as she read the message. She’s probably panicking over nothing… She glanced up at her dash mounted blue lights just to make sure they were still installed. It had been ages since she used them and she’d become accustomed to just looking past them without a second thought. Riverside wasn’t far away, particularly with very little traffic and in the middle of the night; with the lights on, it would be a very quick trip. The screen glowed soft white against her gaze as she texted back:

>I’m on my way from Luna Sports, be there in a few. Send me your address.<

Giving the lobby of Luna Sports Facility one last quick glance before flipping the light switch on, it wasn’t long before she was crossing the Costa Bridge with the address in hand. Having the blue lights on meant Florida driving styles were in full effect and turn signals were non-existent while brakes were only used as required. I’ll call him in the morning, let me just take care of this first. She told herself. A pattern of blue blinked across the concrete barriers as she took the ramp towards Riverside.

In a way it was sort of like old times. It had been a while since she’d taken any side work like Manami’s case and she knew she’d be lying to herself if she said she didn’t enjoy it. She liked the power she had over people and she liked even more when they sought her out to take care of similar situations. Each time she passed out her US Marshal card to someone like Marlin or one of her old high school friends back in Delta City, a small part of her hoped they’d call with some scenario that involved an asshole whose day she would get to ruin and having that silver star clipped to her belt made it all legal.

As she typed in the gate code, it was evident that no one living in Manami’s apartment complex was lacking for money. Granted it wasn’t over the top, but as she drove along there wasn’t a single car more than a couple years old while the grounds were well-lit and neatly manicured. She had heard stories about how much money some girls made in internet modelling, though had never actually been among any of those circles to verify the claims, not that she cared to know, however looking around a part of her was legitimately impressed. It was much nicer than anything she could afford on her Marshal’s salary. She shook her head a little.

Using Manami’s code to get into the building, she was narrowing down in her mind the amount of people who would have access to get all the way to her apartment while still glancing around and taking notice of the various security cameras. The front desk was vacant and she took a quick glance over the counter just by chance hoping to find something useful. A few business cards were neatly attached to a small cork board with other announcements for the complex, but for the most part, it was a clean and well kept workspace. She snagged a card that listed a security firm with a highlighted phone number and stuffed it in her pocket. Front desks at places like Manami’s were little more than glorified reception, most of the actual business was handled off-site to keep a streamlined appearance for their target clientele. If she wanted to see the security cameras, then they might want a warrant and that would mean a trip back to the courthouse on Monday to see a judge and a lot of wasted time. Fortunately, she just happened to know a certain young computer technician with several million confirmed reasons to do whatever she asked. Making her way to the elevator, she sent Tao a message:

>Wake your ass up.<

Then she sent another to Manami:

>I’m downstairs, on my way up.<

The doors parted after a short ascent and Paige stood for a moment looking down the empty hallway. A subtle perfume lingered through the air as she stepped out. To no surprise, the interior of the building was as nice as the outside with a soft white and cream color pallet and trimmed archways. Her footsteps were quiet on the soft carpeting as she continued to listen carefully making her way down to Manami’s door.

@Otterpop