[hr][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/3G4b5GK.jpeg[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/zM7lTtw.jpeg[/img][h1]The New Thule Society & The Elite.[/h1][sup]Featuring the introductions of Blake Schmidt, Phillis Schmidt, Cassandra Schmidt, Angela Schmidt, Jiao-Long Liu, Chunhua Liu, Mika Liu, and the reintroduction of an old foe...[/sup][/center][right][b]Interactions:[/b] None.[/right][right][b][code]Blake Schmidt's Mansion.[/code][/b][/right][hr][hr] A butler poured Berlioz a glass of wine... he grabbed it and took a sip. He felt content for a moment... "... Now, Mr. Auclair, it is a [i]honor[/i] to have you here," Until this buffoon,[url=https://i.imgur.com/tdgPzzb.jpeg] Blake Schmidt[/url], had to ruin it for him. He was seated in this [url=https://i.imgur.com/IqtEnkI.jpeg]exquisite room[/url], wearing a nice suit with the rest of the New Thule Society sitting around him on the table... except for the Dragonslayer, who stood by the door as if it was a silent sentinel. He was eating a roasted turkey; so much food was presented before him. Unseasoned, the way Berlioz liked it. He placed the glass of wine down. "I'm glad to be here and meet your family, Mr. Schmidt," Berlioz answered. "Mr. Liu and his family should be on the way," Blake answered before he gestured towards [url=https://imgur.com/ux7U7jx], a boy who couldn't have been older than eighteen.[/url] "So, this my son, Daniel. He's the youngest of my three children." He waved at them. Then he gestured to[url=https://i.imgur.com/WhP1UEb.jpg] a tall, raven-haired woman.[/url] "This is my oldest, Angela." She didn't so much as look up from her food. Then he gestured to a [url=https://i.imgur.com/IAszxg9.jpg]woman with a shorter bob-cut[/url], "This is my middle child, Cassandra." "Hi!" She greeted them. "... And you've met my wife, Phillis." [url=https://i.imgur.com/HU6IaMc.jpg]Phillis, a tall woman with black hair,[/url] silently nodded. However, a group of footsteps approached, and Berlioz glanced over his shoulder as he saw two well-dressed butlers lead a group of three… [i]subhumans[/i]. One man was the unmistakable head of Liu Pharmaceutical, the revered genius [url=https://i.imgur.com/xFE9khR.jpg]Jiao-Long Liu,[/url] and at his side was his wife [url=https://i.imgur.com/ZFHX0C7.jpg]Chunhua Liu.[/url] Jiao-Long was wearing a black suit, Chunhua was wearing a white dress, and that left the last one: [url=https://i.imgur.com/rLGRQDF.jpg]an average height Chubby girl that didn’t look anything like Jiao-Long or his wife[/url]. Berlioz remembered her as a bastard, a disgrace of Jiao-Long that he was forced to take in because her mother died. However, her jaw dropped when she entered the room and saw the New Thule Society… Berlioz gave her a narrow look. “Hello, hello, hello!” Jiao-Long said with a smile as he walked over to the table and shook Blake’s hand. “Blake, my old friend, seeing you again is great!” “You too, Jiao-Long!” Blake said. “Have a seat! Grab a plate! The food’s getting [i]cold.[/i]” Berlioz seethed before he exhaled. The Lius had a seat near the Schmidt Family; he could see their bastard daughter glaring at them occasionally. If he didn’t care so much about this deal, he would have shot her by now… “These people are our newest employees,” Blake Schmidt said. “Come now, introduce yourselves.” Hearing that he was working for subhumans made Berlioz’s skin crawl, but he had to keep it composed. He gave him a warming smile. “We are…” Berlioz looked between each of his followers, from Mabel to William, to his niece, to the Twins, to Conrad, and even the Dragonslayer. "... [i]Sentinel Solutions.[/i] We are a private Paranormal investigation and enforcement agency. I am the leader of it, Berlioz Auclair." “And they’re going to help us so we can stop relying on Emily G. Reed so much!” Blake said with a smile. "That's right," Berlioz continued, maintaining his forced smile. "Our organization deals with situations that traditional law enforcement can't handle. We've seen our fair share of unusual phenomena and have dealt with many... [i]unique cases.[/i]" "Like what?" Jiao-Long asked. Berlioz took a deep breath, preparing to sell their front [i]convincingly[/i] as possible. "We've dealt with everything from rogue Apparitions to ancient curses. Recently, we were involved in a case where an entire village was plagued by nightly attacks from what seemed to be a pack of werewolves." "Interesting," Jiao-Long said, stroking his chi. "And you were successful?" "Completely," Berlioz replied, his tone confident. "We not only identified the source of the problem but also managed to neutralize the threat without any casualties." Blake Schmidt clapped his hands together, breaking the slight tension that had built up. "Well, it sounds like we've brought in the right team. Sentinel Solutions will be an invaluable asset to the Elite." “I know we talked a lot about working for you all,” Paige finally answered her question. “But, what exactly will you want us to help you with, Mr. Schmidt?” “Simple,” Blake Schmidt, “Asset protection and acquisition!” The room fell silent, waiting for Blake Schmidt to elaborate finally. “The city of St. Portwell is [i]dangerous![/i] My people are only trying to survive, but the power balance seems to shift. Alliances are being made as we speak! It’s only a matter of time before they knock on our door demanding what we have! For no reason other than [i]they want it![/i]” “And you said ‘acquisition’,” Mabel noted. “What does [i]that[/i] entail?” “I believe it’s the same as ‘asset protection’ if you look at it from a certain point of view!” Blake Schmidt grinned. “We are removing dangerous artifacts, apparitions, and whatnot from the hands of [i]unworthy[/i] people before they are used against us and putting them in the hands of people who will use them.” He let his words hang in the air as he took a breath and said, “... You know that Axe those crazy hippies use?! That was taken from my comrade Jason Valos! And look, it's being used against us as we speak!” Berlioz bore teeth at the mention of that subhuman and his damn axe. “... Trust me, we are well aware,” Berlioz tilted his head downwards. He could see their daughter glance at him again, and he returned the glance with a [i]glare.[/i] The air was[i][b] thick[/b][/i] with barely concealed hostility. Blake Schmidt's words... the implication of a brewing conflict was clear to everyone at the table. Berlioz kept his expression neutral though his mind was [i]racing.[/i] The tension was cut with a knife when Phillis Schmidt said, "Mr. Auclair, can you assure us that your team can handle these... acquisitions?" "Mrs. Schmidt, I can assure you that Sentinel Solutions is more than capable. Each team member has been handpicked for their unique skills and experience dealing with the Paranormal. We understand the risks and are prepared to face them head-on." Berlioz answered. As Berlioz spoke, he noticed the Liu family's daughter glancing at him again, her eyes wide. He returned the glance with a steely gaze, quickly causing her to look away as if he didn't already notice her. Foolish subhuman. Chunhua, quiet the entire interaction, leaned in just [i]slightly.[/i] "Mr. Auclair, your confidence is reassuring. But, there are those who won't part with these artifacts [i]willingly;[/i] how do you intend to handle these [i]'uncooperative elements'?[/i]" "We have our methods, Mrs. Liu. Persuasion comes in many forms, and we are well-versed in diplomatic and more... assertive approaches," Berlioz answered. Jiao-Long raised an eyebrow. "Assertive approaches? Are you suggesting [i]force?[/i]" "Only when necessary," Berlioz replied. "Our [i]primary[/i] goal is to ensure the safety and security of our clients. If that requires decisive action, we are prepared to take it." "Good." Blake Schmidt leaned back in his chair, "Because we can't afford to be passive during these times. The balance of power in St. Portwell is shifting, and we need to be [i]proactive![/i]" He threw a finger into the air. "It's exactly why we need you. We've been trying to get our hands on a [i]particular[/i] Apparition..." Blake trailed off. Berlioz raised an eyebrow as Blake gave him the most [i]devious[/i] grin, "... It's known as the [i]Stygian Snake.[/i] You know that 'natural disaster' that damn near destroyed the city ten years ago? Well, it wasn't natural at all! It was an Apparition all along! One of unimaginable power! And it's sealed [i]somewhere[/i] in St. Portwell!" Paige's jaw dropped, but she regained her composure before Berlioz - or Blake - noticed. Berlioz had a flat look on his face. "This... Stygian Snake," He started, "If we do find it, what do you intend on using it for? Are you simply keeping it secure? Or are you going to utilize it?" "Utilize it, of course!" Blake Schmidt grandiosely said. "It's considered a [i]God.[/i] What good would it be rotting away in my private collection?!" The room was silent. "With it at my fingertips, we can change not just St. Portwell but the whole world!" Blake threw his hands up into the air. Berlioz cracked a grin. Blake was really out of his mind, wasn't he? Berlioz knew all about the Stygian Snake, and he knew that Blake's grand goals would not go the way he thought it would. However, if his people found the Stygian Snake, he would [i][b]not[/b][/i] give it to Blake under [i]any[/i] circumstance. Maybe he'd find some way to enact his great purge and eliminate all the subhumans as a parting gift once he finds his White Paradise - but the Stygian Snake seemed more trouble than it was worth. Berlioz took a moment to gauge the reactions of everyone present. Jiao-Long's expression was neutral but thoughtful, Chunhua's eyes were narrowed in contemplation, and the Schmidt children displayed varying degrees of surprise and skepticism. Phillis remained composed, her gaze steady on Berlioz, waiting for his response. "... Mr. Schmidt, while the Stygian Snake's power [i]is[/i] formidable, utilizing its power does not come without its risks," Berlioz steepled his fingers and leaned in as he spoke. "It's not just about using its power - but ensuring it doesn't [i]also[/i] turn against [i][b]us[/b][/i]." "... Precisely why we need experts like you. With you on our side, those risks are mitigated," Blake answered. Berlioz was caught off guard... before he smiled. [i]"... Sure thing." [/i] Blake Schmidt's smile widened. "Excellent. With Sentinel Solutions on board, our goals are within reach." He raised his glass, prompting everyone else to do the same. "To new partnerships and future successes." "To new partnerships!" Everyone echoed, though the enthusiasm... [i][b]varied[/b][/i]. Berlioz's people followed his lead, raising their glasses with the same forced smiles they had worn throughout the evening. However, their forced camaraderie was interrupted by some approaching footsteps as a [url=https://i.imgur.com/s0eZ8CU.jpg]strange man[/url] around six feet tall walked into the doorframe and leaned against it. He ran his hand through his hair, and Berlioz gave him a queer look. [i]"... Scott Reese,"[/i] Berlioz rolled his eyes. “You’re [i]late.[/i]” “I am...?” Scott Reese said before he looked down at his watch. “Oh yeah, I am, in fact, late... the watch is broken, by the way. So, let's get this show on the road.” He laughed as he grabbed a seat and sat down, leaning back with his arms crossed. “... The show’s already over, you slow bastard,” Paige giggled. “Aw, shit.” "Scott, you're just in time for the toast! Let's raise our glasses again, shall we?" Blake said, and everyone complied, lifting their glasses once more. Berlioz took another sip of his wine, masking his irritation with a well-practiced [i]smile.[/i] "Now that we're all here, let's move forward with our plans, shall we? Berlioz, your team's first task will be to secure our assets. We must ensure no one can get close to them without our knowledge, lest we have another incident where Greenwood helps themselves to our artifacts. After that, you will begin our search for the Stygian Snake." Blake explained. Berlioz finished his glass of wine... and looked between each member of the New Thule Society (or as they present themselves, Sentinel Solutions). Then he placed it back on the table... "... Understood, Mr. Schmidt. We'll start [i]immediately.[/i]" [hr][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/Rgwg7I3.png[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/xBbcHgL.png[/img][h1]"Johnny" Valos & Mika Liu.[/h1][sup]Featuring the introductions of Jason Valos.[/sup][/center][right][b]Interactions:[/b] None.[/right][right][b][code]The Emperor Hotel.[/code][/b][/right][hr][hr][center][hider=Black Milk - Massive Attack][youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bf9AgX4Ixs4[/youtube][/hider][/center][hr][hr] [i]Oooooooooh, back in Dad's old hotel.[/i] Johnny thought to himself as he stepped off the elevator into the [url=https://i.imgur.com/THul9aO.jpg]private bar[/url] one placed here so that the rich people can have a view. And what a view it was! You could see the entire city and the beach from here! Though having some booze wasn't on the agenda for today, it was a familiar face that hated his guts, but still a familiar face! Johnny strutted through the bar, wearing a black pinstriped suit, black dress shoes, his signature cane with a snake, and a wide-brimmed fedora. Eventually, he found the booth where Mika Liu was sitting, wearing a white dress with some sandals and holding a glass of tea. Johnny gave her a wide grin as he walked over to the table and slapped his hand on it. She didn't so much as lift her head up. "... Valos, you're late," Mika softly said. "What? No, hello? No how are you? No fuck you?" Johnny laughed. "Just... you're late." He rolled his eyes. "... By an hour," Mika sighed. "Do you just get off on wasting people's time?" "Oh, come the fuck on, Mika," Johnny rolled his eyes. "Like you got something to do." "Meditating, relaxing..." "Stuffing your face with some fancy-ass cakes," Johnny laughed as he sat down. Mika adjusted her glasses and stared at Johnny head-on. "You asked me to come out here and talk with you, Valos." "Yes, I did," Johnny put his hand over the backrest of the booth and grinned. "How about we have some tea first?" Mika asked. "What is that?" Johnny asked. "Like your fifth damn cup?" He rolled his eyes, giving her a playful chuckle. [i]"Seventh."[/i] "Man, you fiendin' over that damn tea," Johnny laughed. Mika got up and walked off towards the bar, and while she was gone, Johnny whipped out his phone and scrolled Instagram for a few minutes. He heard the ceramic teacup hit the table and slid before him. Johnny looked down at the ceramic teacup and saw the steam rise above it. "This is Da Hong Pao, also known as the [i]'Big Red Robe.'[/i] It's one of the world's most revered and rare teas, originally grown in the Wuyi Mountains of China." Mika explained, taking a moment to (dramatically) blink. "It is known for its rich, full-bodied taste with layers of roasted, mineral, and floral notes..." "... Thanks for the tea lesson, Mika," Johnny rolled his eyes. "No, really, [i]thank you[/i], I appreciate it. I feel like a sophisticated ninja now..." "Try it," Mika said. "Maybe it'll show you some class for once in your life." [i]Classic Mika.[/i] Johnny thought to himself as he sipped the tea. "Man, this some good shit... I'm not a tea person, but it's some good shit! But, it's missing something..." Johnny dug into his suit jacket, pulled out a metal flask, and poured Hennesy into the cup. Mika's jaw dropped as she stared at Johnny, completely silent as he screwed the cap back on and took a sip. He drunk it, and grinned. "Now it's that good shit..." He laughed. "I, um, what- the- what in the world, why-" Mika stammered, at a loss for words. "... Are you and your family [b][i]soooooooo[/i][/b] uncouth that they can't go twenty seconds without some goddamn alcohol?!" Mika shouted, shaking. Johnny downed the rest of it. "... It is one of the rarest teas in the Goddamn world, and [i][b]you just poured some cheap alcohol in it!?[/b][/i]" Mika shouted some mouth, literally frothing at the mouth. "What's the big deal, Mika?" Johnny laughed. Mika sighed. "I don't understand why my sister associates with your boorish family!" Mika shouted. "There are better out there for her than the Valos! I don't know why she can't see that!" Johnny didn't reply; he just pointed to the side and saw the other patrons staring at them, and Mika sighed, finally calming herself down. "My 'boorish family'?!" Johnny sarcastically said, feigning offendedness. "What's wrong with Jake? Don't you believe in [i]true love,[/i] Mika?" "Please." Mika rolled her eyes. "You just gotta accept that we like cousins at this point!" [i]"Please."[/i] "... I mean, we're in the same boat right now," Johnny grinned. "What do you mean?" Mika gave him a queer look. "... You know exactly what I mean," Johnny tilted his head, keeping that shit-eating grin on his face. "You know all about that psycho-slashin' motherfucker that's targeting our siblings." Mika was silent. "The reason why I came back to this rathole of a city is because I want to keep my brothers and sisters safe - Lin included," Johnny said, "I don't know shit about this [i]'Sycamore Tree Coven'[/i] they were apart of back in the day but fuck 'im!" Johnny laughed, throwing a hand into the air. "But, I overheard a conversation they all had the other day..." Johnny trailed. "About Blakey wanting something called a [i]'Stygian Snake'[/i] and how they want to stop him." Mika immediately facepalmed, then muttered something in Chinese, Japanese, or [i]something[/i] - Johnny didn't know! "My lord, that girl..." Mika lowered her hand from her face and shook her head. "She's going to get us [i]all[/i] killed..." He took in Mika's exasperation with a grin before saying, "I know you don't like me - I wouldn't like me either! But, like me, hate me - whatever - our families are in this together." "... [i]Unfortnately,[/i]" Mika sighed. "Yes," Johnny began. "[i][b]Unfortunately.[/b][/i] But, we gotta get our shit together and figure this out. I have a feeling that Blake has [i]something[/i] to do with the murders. I don't know why, but if it's for what I think it is... Then his ass is grass." He grinned. "And why did you come to me?" Mika asked. "Your boorish father knows far more than I do." Johnny shook his head. "Cut the bullshit, Mika," Johnny said. "You think little miss [i]'I'd do anything for Daddy's approval'[/i] wouldn't be in on it?" "Go to hell, Valos," Mika seethed. "You don't know me." "In fact, I [i]do[/i]..." Johnny grinned ear to ear like a crocodile as he leaned forward. "... I [i]always[/i] saw through you, Mika. Beneath all that condescending, judgemental-ass,[i] high-society[/i] bullshit you try to present yourself as..." Mika stared at him wordlessly before Johnny finished. "... You're just a [i][b]soft[/b][/i] little [i]cuddly-ass[/i] girl who wants[i] [b]everyone[/b][/i] to love her - especially ya' pops!" Johnny laughed as he leaned back in her chair. "You love your sister more than anything in the world! And you would [i]never[/i] do anything that would hurt her..." Mika stared at him silently as Johnny placed his arm on the table, looking off to the side. "So, again, [i]how about we cut the bullshit[/i]," Johnny began, shaking his head. "There is a reason why I went to you before my own pops!" Mika took a deep breath, "Alright, Valos, [i]let's.[/i] Why did you come to me?" "Because I knew I could get you to help me," Johnny cockily said. "You [i]know [/i]that whatever Blakey is up to, your [i]sister's[/i] flat ass is on the line. I don't know anything about this Stygian Snake nonsense, but if my little bros and sis' think it's bad news..." Mika sighed heavily, closing her eyes. "... Fine, [b][i]Valos,[/i][/b]" Mika said as she opened her eyes, hissing Johnny's last name like an insult. "I'll help you, but why do you care so much?" Johnny gave Mika a toothy smile. "... Because it's what family does! Maybe if you weren't so robotic and self-absorbed all the damn time, you'd know that!" Johnny obnoxiously laughed before he gave her a sinister grin. "And besides, I can't stand that bitch ass motherfucker, Blake. I'd do [i]anything[/i] to knock him down a peg." [i]"Fine,"[/i] Mika rolled her eyes. "I'll tell you everything, I'll even help you out [i]personally...[/i] but we need to be smart about this. And we need a plan. While Blake is King-Boor himself, he is dangerous and unpredictable." "Unpredictable?" Johnny parroted, laughing. "This is Blake 'I'll do anything to fuck any pretty white girl you put in front of me' Schmidt! And you're calling him 'unpredictable.'" Johnny had to finger-quote. Mika was silent for a moment. "... You'd be surprised." Johnny raised an eyebrow, "Surprised? What do you mean by [i]that?[/i]" Mika leaned forward, lowering her voice. "Blake may come off as a simple-minded hedonist obsessed with orgasming at [i]literally[/i] every opportunity, but there's more to him than meets the eye. He's got connections, resources, and most worryingly,[i] ambition.[/i] I don't think he's dangerous... he's unhinged. A man-child that thinks the whole world is his playground." "He's got a few tricks up his sleeve; you're saying," Johnny rolled his eyes. "[i]... Big deal.[/i]" "It's more than just tricks, Johnny," Mika began. "He's been... making moves. He's planning something big. It may be bigger than all of us. Recently, I discovered he has employed a certain group of dangerous individuals..." "Mika, we don't get time for this mysterious drama queen bullshit..." Johnny rolled his eyes. "Who are they?" "Berlioz Auclair, a high-ranking member of the now-defunct Das Sonnenrad, and his like-minded compatriots..." Mika answered. "The fuck and the fuck?" Johnny laughed. "Radicalists. White supremacists. [i]Nazis.[/i]" Mika elaborated. "Blake and my family are oblivious to their true nature, but I know all about them..." "Like fucking... Kill all Jews, sieg heil-ass Nazis?" Johnny raised an eyebrow. "Well, they're more like [i]wannabe[/i] Nazis, but..." Mika shrugged. "They don't call themselves that [i]openly, [/i]but they're extremists, [i]Johnny.[/i] Dangerous, ruthless, unhinged, and above all else completely unpredictable. Working with them can only end badly for [i]all[/i] of us..." "Okay, I knew Blake was a complete dumbass!" Johnny laughed, "But this is..." "... Beyond the pale, I know." Mika ended the sentence for him. "So, Mr-Fuckin-[i][b]Stupid[/b][/i] is in bed with some crazy skinheads," Johnny repeated. "But, I'm wondering... like, the fuck? I'm lost here. Maybe we need to take things a step back a little so we can get a good look at this big, fucked up picture..." Mika was silent, so Johnny finished. "Who are the Elite, and how do [i]you[/i] play in all of this, Mika...?" "Fine, I'll explain [i]everything,[/i]" Mika slowly shook her head. "But, this stays between us, okay?" Johnny grinned. "Okay!" So, as promised, Mika explained [i]everything[/i] (well, almost everything) to Johnny, and they made a plan to confront Jason Valos... ... Johnny's father. [right][b][code]The Valos Manor.[/code][/b][/right][hr] After an off-screen conversation, Mika and Johnny rolled back to the Valos Manor (after some protesting from Mika) to act out the plan that they had agreed on. They walked over to the balcony, the big fancy one that overlooked the waves, where several sun chairs were set up that gave whoever stood here a great view of the ocean, and it would be perfect in the summer... unfortunately, it was the fall. It was a cloudy day in St. Portwell. Nonetheless, the great and illustrious [url=https://i.imgur.com/l5eYEL3.jpg]Jason Valos[/url] sat in one of the chairs, puffing a cigar. The two walked up to him, and Jason didn't even look. Johnny took a step forward. "So, Pops-" Johnny tried to say. "Sit down," Jason said, pointing at the chair beside him. Complying, Johnny sat down next to his father... and Mika remained standing up. Silently, Jason handed Johnny an unlit cigar, and Johnny, on reflex, slid it in between his lips and lit it with his own cigar lighter. "... Why didn't you tell me you were back in town?" Jason asked. Johnny sighed. "I wanted it to be a surprise," He answered. "No phone call, no text, no email, hell, you could have sent me a damn messenger pigeon," Jason asked. "You never thought to say 'hi' every now and then?" "... You threw me to the curb," Johnny narrowed his eyes. "I did," Jason answered, "I did it because you needed it. You needed to toughen up. You needed to gain some perspective. Otherwise, you were going to grow up to be a pussy like Jake or Jaska..." After puffing his cigar, Jason leaned back in his chair and grinned at Johnny. "... And look at you now," Jason began. "I hear all about the adventures about [i]The Revolver[/i]... you're just like me." "Hmph," Mika shook her head, "I know all about the Revolver, too...." "Of course you do..." Johnny rolled his eyes before focusing on Jason. "Well, thank you for abandoning me. I [i]really [/i]appreciate it." "I mean, It wasn't anything personal," Jason shrugged. "You and your little siblings went on a magical rampage, y'know. Caused a lot of damage. While I can throw money at the problem to make it disappear, I had to save face. I had to look like I gave a shit, y'know? You were the ringleader..." Johnny was silent. Which made Jason grin wider. "See, Johnny," Jason began. "I always told you to never lie to people's faces. If you ain't shit, then let them know; things work out better that way." "... I hate to interrupt your [i]touching[/i] reunion," Mika rolled her eyes. "But, we didn't come out here for this." "And look!" Jason said. "You made up with Mika." "Let's get to the point, Mika. She wants to drink tea, eat cakes, and act like she's better than everyone else," Johnny laughed, making Mika shake her head at him. "I wanted to talk with you about your buddy Blake Schmidt." Jason was silent. "First off, he's [i]not[/i] my friend," Jason seethed, "I hate him almost as much as I hate James and all his bastard children." He rolled his eyes. "... What do you want to know?" "You know about the murders, right?" Johnny asked. "Do you think Blake has anything to do with it?" Jason rubbed his chin. "... Yes, and no clue," Jason shrugged. "What? You're trying to play Sherlock?" "Yes," Johnny replied. "Jake, Gabe, Jaska, and Sylvia-" "... And my sister." "[i]... And chubby cheeks' sister[/i]," Johnny added to earn another roll of Mika's eyes. "Point is, they're in danger. And I only came to this hole-in-the-wall of a city to protect them." Jason rubbed his chin some more. "... I mean, there's a security detail on [i]all[/i] of them," Jason answered before laughing. "Don't you think enough is enough? When will you hang up this "The Revolver" bullshit and just relax for once, just chill?" "Not today," Johnny sharply answered. "We want to know why Blake Schmidt wants the Stygian Snake." Jason was silent. "Now, I don't know Blake Schmidt's sudden obsession with that damn Apparition..." Jason rolled his eyes. "But, he's been acting strange lately. He's been gathering power. Allies. Goons. He had this one bitch, but..." "Kari Wilson," Mika answered. "Yeah, her!" Jason began. "What can you tell us about that bitch?" Johnny asked. "She was going around finding sealed Apparitions for our boy, and his wife was adjoining them to his fellow rich goons with this artifact he bought off Emily's goons. I know Blake tried to fuck her a few times - probably did it once or twice - but she was close to Lin..." Jason answered before he shrugged. "... Well, before she, you know, got [i]iced.[/i]" "Like [i]our[/i] Lin?" Johnny asked. "She is not 'your Lin'," Mika seethed. "Well, she's my future daughter-in-law, so she's one of us," Jason shrugged. "But Lin was her homegirl in the Elite. The two were inseparable. At least, before..." "I know," Johnny rolled his eyes. "Who the fuck is Kari, anyway? She ain't in our circle." "She's a nobody," Jason answered, "At least compared to us. I don't know about her; I [i]know[/i] she ran to Blakey because Emily and her scissor-sister were bothering her. I didn't get to talk to her much - no one did - but I [i]know[/i] Linda and her were tight. Like [i]tight[/i]." "Well," Johnny turned to Mika as he said, "I didn't know about [i]that.[/i]" Mika winced before putting that trademark scowl back on her face. She didn't say a word, so Johnny turned back toward his father and said, "That brings me to thing-two..." "Maaaaaaaaaaaan," Jason rolled his eyes. "This is the first time I've seen you in over a decade! You immediately start asking me for shit." "... Can you get me, Gabe, Jaska, Jake, and Sylvia into the Elite?" Johnny asked. "Don't forget about Sage," Mika said. "Sage can suck my dick," Johnny seethed. Jason pointed at Mika. "She's in the Elite, in fact, of the 'top' members of that topsy-turvy clusterfuck," Jason answered. "Why don't you ask her?" "Because my father wouldn't induct the Valos into the Elite," Mika answered. "And it's better if you do it, since they're [i]your[/i] children. The Schmidts and the Pimms will get suspicious if my father does it." "What about Sage?" Jason raised an eyebrow. "You know this. Sage is an outcast among their own family," Mika said. "You bringing Sage up into the Elite wouldn't bring as much suspicion as my father bringing four of his [i]'rival's'[/i] children into the fold." "Well..." Jason sighed. "... I'll do it... but..." He narrowed his eyes at Johnny before just cracking a grin. "I know you're up to something!" Jason began. "Because you wouldn't be my boy if you weren't!" Johnny cracked a grin. Jason leaned back and sighed. "Alright, Johnny, I'll get [i]everyone[/i] into the Elite. But you [i]better[/i] remember this. And don't fuck it up." Johnny's grin widened, "... [i]Wouldn't dream of it, Pops.[/i]" Jason glanced at Mika, standing with her arms crossed, "Mika, I trust you'll keep an eye on him, [i]right?[/i]" Mika sighed. "... I'll do my best, Mr. Valos." "Good," Jason said, taking another puff from his cigar. "Now get out of here, both of you. And Johnny, next time you come back to town, at least [i]pretend[/i] you missed me." "Sure thing!" Johnny Mika and Johnny walked back through the door to the garage. Mika walked up to the passenger-side door of Johnny's Hummer... but he whipped around, placed his hand firmly against it, and grinned at her. There were about twenty seconds of maintained eye contact before he spoke. "... Why didn't you tell me your [i]sister[/i] was in the Elite already?" Johnny asked. "Because..." Mika trailed off. "You know the whole damn time, didn't you?" Johnny added. "... I didn't tell you because I wanted to protect her. Lin is in over her head, Johnny. She's not like you or me." Mika answered with a sigh. "And protect her from [i]what?[/i]" Johnny tilted his head at her. "Me? Jake? The Elite? The consequences of her fucking actions?" "Both," Mika looked away. "Lin is... fragile. She always has been. She made strides, but even after fighting a world-ending threat, she [i]still [b]is[/b][/i]... I never even wanted her in the Elite in the first place, but she just stumbled into things! If I kept her involvement a secret, I could find a way to handle this without dragging you into it..." "Mika, [i]Mika,[/i]" Johnny rolled his eyes before he leaned in closer to Mika's face. "I thought we agreed on some [i]transparency[/i] here. Some [i]honesty.[/i] And now it turns out that you were lying to me about some things." He was inches away from Mika's face... "I know it's just [i]little things,[/i] but you know," Johnny chuckled. "The [i]'little things' [b]always[/b][/i] have a way of adding up, don't they...?" "Mr. Valos... Johnny, you have to understand that I wasn't [i]trying[/i] to lie to you," Mika said. "I was trying to protect everyone. Me, you, Lin..." "... How's [i]that[/i] working out?" Johnny asked. "Not only is your sister in the Elite, but she was buddy-buddy with Blakey's living radar! That would have been helpful to know, Mika! For all [b][i]I[/i][/b] know, Lin's snapped and is the one icing those Sycamore-douchebags!" "... Johnny, you [i]know[/i] Lin's not a killer," Mika said. "Doesn't matter what I[i] know,[/i]" Johnny shot back. Mika was silent for a moment. "... I get it," Mika sighed. "But, standing here pointing fingers isn't going to help us, now is it?" "I'm [i]not,[/i]" Johnny added. "I just... look, I said I would help her, right? She's practically family at this point - she's my brother's fiance! I can't help her if you're gonna sit here and lie by omission, [b][i]Mika...[/i][/b]" He spat out her name like it was the more vile racial slur he could think of. "Fine," Mika sighed. "I'm sorry, I won't do it anymore..." "Is there [i]anything[/i] else you want to share?" Johnny asked. "Let's get it out the way now, because if I find anything [i]else[/i] out..." "You're really making mountains out of molehills, Valos," Mika said. "But, no, I'm not hiding anything else." "Good." Johnny released his hand from the door. "Then, let's go." [hr][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/G2P70nU.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/3ak3oib.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/lbPeBwf.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/8YqjhLI.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/AtGSCjW.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/4XfybSC.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/Sx97E8j.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/40rjCRw.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/Rgwg7I3.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/xBbcHgL.png[/img][img]https://i.imgur.com/nyRvnY7.png[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/5WCjcc2.jpeg[/img][h1]The "Rich Clique", The Schmidt Children & The 8th Street Coven.[/h1][sup]And a surprise guest.[/sup] [/center][right][b]Interactions:[/b] An annoying ass Coven.[/right][right][b][code]The Harbor Longue.[/code][/b][/right][hr][hr] The Valos and friends were assembled at everyone's favorite hangout. [url=https://i.imgur.com/226IZXL.jpeg]The Harbor Longue![/url] Johnny didn't care about this place, but it was a "neutral ground" where their rich parents/family members/whatever wouldn't hear. Hopefully, they wouldn't hang out at a dump like this. The rest of the "rich clique" sat on the sofas on the balcony, with Johnny and Mika standing up, telling them everything. "... So, Blake was using Kari to find Apparitions?" Gabe said with a shrug. "I'm surprised she hasn't gone into hiding or something after the Coven dissolved," Sage awkwardly laughed. "I mean, with what Luna did..." "Do you know if Kari was being used to look for the Stygian Snake?" Gabe asked. "I mean, I think she could do it..." "Kari wouldn't have done it," Lin added. "I know she wouldn't." "She's not important, like, at all," Johnny put his hands up. "She's [i]dead.[/i] She's probably sucking dick in her next life." He rolled his eyes. "Johnny!" Lin and Jake said at the same time. "So, let's get to the fuckin' point instead of musing about some dead hoe," Johnny said, causing Mika to roll her eyes. Johnny jammed both of his thumbs into his chest. "[b][i]I[/i][/b] got us invitations into the Elite! Daddy Valos will induct us into this weird, rich, magical cult that bitch ass motherfucker Blake Schmidt runs. Where, [i]all[/i] of us, will join for information and maybe a clean shot at Blakey [i]if necessary[/i]." "Oooooooh, [i]when?![/i]" Sylvia asked. Johnny was silent for a moment. "... [i]I have no idea![/i]" Johnny laughed. "I'm hoping we don't do this weird ass ceremony where we gotta sacrifice a goat or something else fucked up." "I wanna bathe in a goat's blood, Johnny!" Sylvia shouted. "... [i]Of course, you do,[/i]" Johnny rolled his eyes. "So, while you sort [i]that[/i] out," Gabe asked, crossing her arms. "What will we do in the meantime?" Johnny was silent momentarily [i]again.[/i] "[i]Nothing,[/i]" Johnny succinctly answered. "Ya'll are gonna sit here and chill." "There is no need to rush," Mika added. "Right now, we all know [i]very[/i] little, and acting now would be...." Mika paused. "... [i]Unwise.[/i]" "I mean, I know, but for all we know, Blake found himself another radar hoe-" Gabe tried to say before she was interrupted by... "Gabe!" Jake and Lin shouted. "I mean, that's what she was!" Gabe scoffed before she pinched her fingers together until they were [i]almost[/i] touching. "For all we know, Blakey is [i]this[/i] close to finding the Snake. The longer we wait, the worst shit's gonna get!" Their corner of the balcony fell silent after Gabe’s outburst. Mika took a deep breath. “I understand the urgency, Gabe, but we must be[i] smart [/i]about this. Rushing in without a plan will only get us all killed.” "This is a once-in-a-blue moon thing here, people, so write it down, save it on your calendars!" Johnny laughed, waving his hands in the air. "... But I agree with Mika. We all we know is a lot of irrelevant shit, and I don't know about you, but I've lasted too long just to get whacked." "Will I get to shove my guitar up someone's ass?" Sylvia asked, eyes [i]sparkling[/i] with excitement. “This isn’t a game, Sylvia. We’re dealing with some powerful people here. We need to focus.” Jake shook his head. "We need to find out where the Stygian Snake is, what Blake plans to do with it, and [i]how[/i] he intends to find it. If we can get ahead of him, maybe we can stop him," Lin said. "Find the snake?" Sage chuckled. "You haven't been watching movies, have you? Don't you know that cliche where the 'good guy accidentally leads the villain to the MacGuffin'?" "I mean, leave that damn Snake where it is," Gabe rolled her eyes. "We obviously need to secure it," Lin said. "Do you [i]honestly[/i] think it'll end with Blake?" "But, yeah, but going around looking for it is not very-" "Look, we're not going to look for anything," Johnny put his hands up. "If anything, we take Blakey out, [i]then[/i] take over his search for the tree. Make sure nobody else finds it... We can just yeet that fucker into the Pit or something and make it someone else's problem..." "... [i]The [b]what?[/b][/i]" Sylvia tilted her head. "Don't worry about it," Johnny said. "We can just use your father's connections to learn more about it," Mika noted. "... And your pops," Johnny grinned as Mika rolled her eyes at him. "But, I can try, but my Pops is [i]real[/i] tight-lipped about his business." Finally, Jaska spoke up, "... What about us? What will we do?" "I'm glad you asked," Mika smiled at Jaska, "... We just need to keep an eye on things. There are a [i]lot[/i] of people looking for the Stygian Snake, and anything unusual can be a lead or at least [i]something[/i] that can help us at this point. Maybe contact the Sycamore Tree Coven and see if they know anything." "Not an option." Gabe immediately answered, crossing her arms. "Fuck them hoes." "... I know [i]somebody[/i] that can help if you just-" Lin tried to say. "[i]Nope![/i]" Johnny waved his hands in front of him. "I know who you're talking about! And lemme tell you something; [i]I know her[/i] and [i]trust me, [b]we do not want her involved.[/b][/i]" "Is it Trish-" Jaska tried to ask. "Nope! I said we're done talking about it, and [i]that's it![/i]" Johnny sighed. "Now, for now, nobody goes [i]anywhere[/i] alone. Nobody goes off alone. I don't care if you all gotta take tag-team shits; nobody splits up even for a [i]second[/i] - The bottom line is you're all targets. Guys stick with guys, girls stick with girls, and Sage...?" Johnny's eyes landed on their nonbinary ally and rolled them. "I don't know, you can suck my dick." Sage smiled. "... [i]You want it now or later, big boy?![/i]" Everyone laughed - except Johnny and Mika (who only cracked a grin). Johnny closed his eyes, sighing. "I'm going to go see what else I can dig up on the low," Johnny began before looking at the group. "Now, I know you're all adults, but [i]puh-lease[/i] don't do anything retarded," Johnny sighed. "Or, at the very least, if you [i][b]are[/b][/i] going to do something retarded; at least fuck it up for [i]everyone[/i] involved and not just us." "Will do!" Sylvia said, throwing a thumbs up. "... And I have to meet with someone," Mika said with a sigh before suddenly walking away. Johnny just shrugged before he gave them a wave goodbye and left. They were all silent for a moment. "... Who else thinks that was a load of bullshit?!" Sylvia shouted, laughing. Gabe crossed her arms, sinking deeper into this stupid sofa. "Yeah, I know!" Gabe began. "Sitting on our ass ain't gonna help us!" "Look, guys," Jake said. "I agree with them; we just need to chill." "But seriously, sitting around on our asses and doing [i]nothing?[/i]" Sylvia smirked. "That’s not our style, Jakey. What happened to your sense of adventure? What happened to your [i]balls?![/i]" "She's got a point," Gabe added, shrugged. "'Wait and see' ain't us." Sage sighed, pushing their hair back. "Yeah, but we also need to be careful." Lin stood up and said, "I understand being cautious, but we must stay proactive. We can’t just [i]hope for the best here[/i]." "[i]Seeeeeeeeeeeeee?![/i]" Sylvia stuck her hands out at Lin. "You get it!" "What are you suggesting, Lin?" Jake raised an eyebrow. "We need to gather more information," Lin said firmly. "We need to know what Blake is up to." "How do we do that without pissing off the parents?" Gabe raised an eyebrow. "Well..." Sage deviously grinned as all eyes were on them. "I have been talking to Daniel, Cassandra, and Angela since this started...." Everyone looked at Sage, waiting for their next words. "... They're going to be at Christiansands tonight." Lin's eyes shot open in shock, unnoticed because all the focus was on Sage. "So, we just wait out there and beat up his kids for information?!" Sylvia punched a hand into her opposite fist. " Or we can just, you know," Jake shrugged. "Talk to them. See what they know." "I..." Lin raised a hand, speaking before stopping herself. "'I' what, Lin?" Gabe asked, tilting her head at her soon-to-be sister-in-law. "Got something to share." Lin sighed. "... [i]No, I do not.[/i]" "They'll be there at eight, right when it opens. Let's try to get there before they get in, shake them down, and see what they know. I mean, they have to know [i]something,[/i]" "And shake some ass!" Sylvia shouted, hopping to her feet. Jake sighed. "... Let's not." "Alright, alright, square," Sylvia rolled her eyes. "We will [i]not[/i] be shaking ass, not this time." "But, let's keep it low-key so Jake doesn't piss himself if we get into a fight," Gabe teased, grinning at her twin. "We need to be smart about this... Just approach them calmly, gather information, and just go. We don't want to start a fight; we want answers." Sage nodded in agreement. "I'll scope out the place beforehand and see if I can spot them arriving." With their plan set [i](sort of)[/i], the group dispersed one by one... Gabe and Sylvia eventually began talking about random bullshit while Sage discreetly slipped out. Jake and Lin tried to keep them focused before giving up, and they filed out to meet at Christiansands.[right][b][code]Outside Christiansands.[/code][/b][/right][hr] "... Pssst, Eagle-One!" Sylvia muttered... seemingly into nothing, but she had two AirPods in her ears. She was standing down the street from Christiansands, and there was [i]already[/i] a line formed. All for this trashy-ass club [i]that hasn't even opened yet![/i] Sylvia was wearing a velvet-red colored satin dress and some thigh-high boots - her guitar strapped to her back. The "rich kids" formed a perimeter around Christiansands, with Sage on one corner, Jake on another, and Lin on the one furthest from Sylvia... Gabe was right by the club's entrance, chilling and telling everyone that "she's waiting for someone," and Jaska was opposite the club's roof. "... Jaska is on the roof looking like Count Nosferatu!" Sylvia laughed. "Sylvia, keep it down," Gabe's voice could be heard through the AirPods. "We're..." "Suspicious as fuck already!" Sylvia laughed. "They probably think we're Feds!" "Just keep it down and keep an eye open," Jake shook his head. "Honestly, talking on AirPods is less suspicious than just standing there..." Lin noted out loud. "You know..." Gabe mused out loud. "This plan is seeming a little bit half-baked..." "Oh, when did [i]you[/i] get the ability to think about the consequences of your actions?!" Sage laughed. "Fuck you, Sage," Gabe laughed back. "I mean..." Lin noted. "What's honestly the worst that could happen here? As long as we're all smart about this, there is [i][b]literally[/b][/i] nothing that can go wrong." "... [i]Jinxed it[/i]." Sage giggled. "Oh, hush, you," Somehow, Sage could hear the [i]sound[/i] of Lin rolling her eyes. "Wait, I see them!" Jaska pointed at a car pulling up on the corner by Gabe, and the three Schmidt children came out. Starting with the eldest, Angela, then Cassandra, then Daniel, they walked alongside each other towards the club until Gabe stepped in front of them with a warming smile on her face. "Heeeeeeeeeeeey, there!" Gabe stepped in front of them, waving. "Funny seeing you all here." All of the "rich kids". "... Move, Gabe," Angela said, pushing past Gabe and making the girl scrunch her face up. However, the rest of the rich kids started converging on Gabe's location. Gabe grabbed Angela by the wrist and said, "Heeeeeeeeeeey now," Gabe said to Angela. "How about we catch up? It's been a while, hasn't it, old friend?" "We're on important business here, Gabe," Angela said, pushing Gabe. That sent Gabe over the edge as her temper flared. "Okay, push me again, motherfucker! And I'll-" Gabe tried to say before Jake ran up and grabbed his twin by the shoulders. "Hey, hey, hey, what's going on here," Jake said to them, holding his twin back from making their lives [i]waaaaay[/i] harder. "Hey, Angela, Cassandra, Daniel! It's been too long-" They walked away from him mid-sentence while Jake tried to tail but keep Gabe in check. [sup]"Let's just drop it; they obvious don't want to talk..."[/sup] Lin said to Jake in a low volume, shaking her head. "Um, hey!" Jaska said over the AirPods that some still had in their ears. "... We[i] maaaaaaay[/i] have a problem..." Suddenly, Gabe and Jake stopped as they looked up to the rooftop Jaska was on. He pointed down the street. When everyone looked, it was a very familiar sight. Just not a very welcome one. It was a small group of people that would have been irrelevant if not for a few key figures... ghosts from the rich kid's past, you could say. [i][h3]"... Well, well, well!"[/h3][/i] George said as he walked up, wearing jeans, a white dry-fit shirt, and massive feet. He crossed his arms as he looked down at the group... He had a weird axe in his hand. the Schmidt kids quickly disappeared into the club. "Didn't expect to see you dickheads here," George grinned. "Or ever again." "Yeah, no one liked you motherfuckers!" Carol said as she walked up next to George, grinning as she leaned against him. There were a few people they didn't recognize, but they recognized George, Carol, Amy, and Greta... and old wounds resurfaced. "That's rich coming from Emily's pet," Gabe spat back. "Matter of fact, you're irrelevant just because you associate with her insecure ass..." "Oh boy, it's you losers!" Sylvia laughed as she pulled out her guitar. She raised a hand and let off a dramatic riff before she said, "Shouldn't you be whining about your little Hourgl-" "Hey! Hey! [i][b]Hey![/b][/i]" Jake cut Sylvia off as he stepped in front of her with both hands up. "It's been a while! Hasn't it?! Carol, you look like you haven't aged a [i]day![/i]" "... Because I fucking haven't, you stupid motherfucker! Go suck your dad's dick!" Carol shouted. "Don't talk to him like that, you fucking goblin!" Gabe screamed as she pushed back him. "Go find some pedophile and suck [i]him[/i] off! At least you'd be useful for once in your damn life!" Her hands began glowing with a vibrant red light. "[i]We're in Dollhouse territory,[/i]" Lin flatly noted to Gabe and Sylvia. "[i][b]Relax.[/b][/i]" "I don't give a shit!" Gabe shouted. "And we didn't come out here for a fight!" Jacqueline and Miranda stepped forward, and Miranda held a black plastic bag. "We don't even know who you people are!" "... And be happy for that," Greta noted as she walked up to their side and pushed her glasses up her nose; she stood with her hands behind her back. "These people are nobodies. Let's just go around them and stop wasting our time..." She rolled her eyes. Jacqueline and Miranda gestured for the 8th Street members to come along, and they followed behind them as they walked past the group. It was tense as Jake held Gabe back, Sylvia gently played her guitar, Jaska was still in the room, and Lin and Sage were tense. However, Jake and Lin knew that this was far from over. "... That could have gone worse," Jake rolled his eyes. "We need to keep an eye on them. They’re here for a reason." Sage added, nodding their head. "Agreed," Lin added, glancing towards the club entrance where the Schmidt children had disappeared. "We can't let our guard down." "Hey, Jaska," Jake said into his AirPods. "Do you see anything else from up there?" "Not yet, but I'm keeping watch," Jaska responded. "I’ll let you know." "Okay, let's get the hell out of here," Jake said. "This is a bus-" "... Who told you you were tough, Gabe!" George's voice, dripping with sarcasm, could be heard meters away from them with his arms crossed. "You were always good at pretending!" "Let's do this motherfuckers!" Carol said, rolling up her sleeve. "Us two against you bitch-ass motherfuckers! You think you can make fun of what happened to me, you fucking rich motherfuckers!? I'll tear your tits off and make you [i]eat 'im![/i]" "George, Carol, let's go!" Jacqueline shouted from the entrance. "You know what?" Gabe bore teeth as her hands began glowing brighter. "Gabe!" "Gabe!" [i]"Gabe!" [b]"Gabe!" "Gabe!"[/b][/i] Lin and Jake repeated repeatedly, but Gabe was past the point of listening...[center][hr][hider=Hypest Hype - Chase & Status][youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-7vJ2FRSvM[/youtube][/hider][hr][/center]She threw her hands up, and let loose an eye-searingly bright laser-beam directly at George's chest, it hit instantly and burned him severely but he threw his hands up to block. "Ayyyyyyyyyye! Let's party, bitches!" Sylvia shouted as she raised her guitar over her head and threw it at Carol. However, with how bright the laser beam was, she missed it completely and broke a nearby window. Her guitar floated back into her hands. "... Son of a bitch!" Miranda hissed, shaking her head. She then pointed down the street as she commanded the rest of 8th Street. "Go help them!" Amy immediately dropped her gym bag on the ground with a thud... she squatted down, unzipped it, and pulled out her kanabō. She threw it over her shoulder, grabbed it with both hands, and almost sprinted, but Greta stuck her hand out in front of her; she dug into her satchel and pulled out a glowing red potion "Carol! Get down!" Greta shouted as chucked it surprisingly far. "Oh shit!" Gabe shouted. The rich kids had no clue what it was, as Sylvia played a riff on her guitar, suspended in mid-air - before it was launched [i]back[/i] at them. Jacqueline and Miranda screamed as they dove for cover. Greta got down too, but from Violet... electricity arced off her body before a copy of her, made out of pink electricity, came out of her, flew into the air, and caught it. "We gotta get out-" Jake tried to say before George closed the distance and grabbed Jake by the collar of his shirt. "There ain't no escaping now!" George screamed as he chucked Jake down the street. "Ya'll can have him!" "Hahahahah! Look at him go!" Carol laughed. Jake screamed as he flew through the air. "Jaaaaaaaaake!" Gabe shouted before she aimed one hand at George and the other at Violet's electric copy - she fired two beams off, one that hit George directly in the face and [i]seared[/i] his eyeballs and the other hit the potion and caused it to explode in midair. Violet's apparition was instantly destroyed, and she dropped unconscious, and George thrashed around, hoping for his eyes. "Violet!" Pink screamed as she knelt and grabbed her friend. "Hold still, you giant motherfucker!" Carol shouted as she ran towards George with both hands out, but she saw Sylvia running towards her, guitar primed to hit her. Carol ducked and shot herself up with an upper cut aimed right between Sylvia's legs, and she yelped as she dropped her guitar and grabbed her ladybits. Carol came in with a right hook and broke Sylvia's nose as she was sent stumbling backward. However, she was hit with a laser beam that singed her clothes, and she screamed as she looked at Gabe. A focused laser beam went directly through her skull, and Carol dropped dead seconds later. "We gotta get Jake, where is Jaska!?" Gabe shouted as she ran over to a parked car, opened the gas tank, and used her abstraction to pull the gasoline out, and it floated into the air "I don't know!" Suddenly, a pink mist overcame them, and they began seeing their greatest desire... Jake was pushing himself to his feet, only to have a boot pound him straight back into the sidewalk. He glanced over his shoulder and saw Amy Nakamura with her iron club over her shoulder. "Ya'll pick a [i]really[/i] bad day to pick a fight with us," Amy said, "Don't worry, I'm only going to break your knees, Valos." However, Jaska came soaring through the air and tackled her to the ground, and Jake hopped up to his feet as he wrestled with her. He looked down at the pink mist and saw Pink and Miranda run into it... but Amy threw Jaska right into him, and the two landed on a car with a bone-breaking thud. Gabe was hallucinating... distracted by it all. She didn't even notice Pink running up and clocking her across the face. She stumbled backward, but Pink grabbed her by the collar and came in with a punch to her gut before punching her directly in the face again. Gabe's face was oozing blood, but Pink grabbed her collar with both hands and slammed her head into the passenger side window of a parked car. It cracked, Gabe was knocked unconscious, and the pink mist faded. George's eyes were completely healed (while Miranda had received all the burns), and Sage was already unconscious, face battered and beaten... "Uh, what?" Sylvia said before George snatched the guitar out of her hands and grinned. "... [i]Yoink![/i]" George said as he tried to snap the guitar in half, but it just wouldn't break. "That won't break, you dum-" Sylvia said before she was interrupted by Greta hitting her in the back of the head with a lead pipe. "Oh my God!" Lin said before she left to turn and run... and George was directly in her path. "... Where you going, sweetheart?" George said with a very devious grin as he took steps towards Lin. "The fun's already-" A gunshot rang out. He was hit directly in the back, but the bullet bounced off. He looked over his shoulder and saw Mika Liu with a smoking Snubnose Taurus 856 Revolver aimed directly at him. He laughed. "You might as well be throwing cotton balls at me, fatass!" He laughed before marching towards Mika, and she let off a few more rounds that did as much damage as the last one. He cocked his hand back to deliver a backhand that would have killed anyone else. [b][i]"Mika!" [/i][/b]Lin shouted. The hand collided with Mika's face in what would have normally [i]killed[/i] her... [i]normally.[/i] The hand stopped immediately against her face as if it were nothing more than a pat. On the other hand, all the impact that [i]should[/i] have went to Mika went directly to George's face, and he found himself stumbling backward as she rolled her eyes and said, "... [i]Idiot.[/i]" Mika ran over to Lin, and grabbed her hand, then commanded, "We're leaving!" "But, J-" A poker card harmlessly fell from the sky directly behind Jacqueline... and in a cloud of smoke, Johnny appeared, wrapped his arm around her neck, and aimed a Taurus 444 Raging Bull Magnum against her head. [h1][b][i]"ALRIGHT MOTHERFUCKERS!"[/i][/b][/h1] Johnny screamed as he pressed the revolver against her head. "I don't know what the fuck is going on here!" Johnny kept shouting, "But you motherfuckers are gonna step the fuck back, or the bitch gets it!" [i]"... What's going on here?"[/i] A voice could be heard from the rooftop... but Johnny immediately froze upon hearing it, expressing pure shock and horror. Before he looked up... It was Shaquita Walker. She dropped from the rooftops and landed on the sidewalk as if she had only fallen a foot. She looked to the left and right and said, "You're all causing a ruckus, so Luis told me to tell you to cut it out. You're scaring away the business..." Johnny stared at Shaquita, jaw dropped, muttering gibberish as he couldn't find the words. Eventually, her gaze met him, and she half-grinned. "Oh, [i]Johnny,[/i]" she began. You never told us [i]you[/i] were back in town. Why don't you come upstairs? I bet Luis would [i]love[/i] to see you again. We can all catch up." Johnny winced. ".... Noooooooo, thank you!" Johnny said. "Then let go of Jacqueline here, grab your people, and then get out of here," Shaquita barked at him, her smile vanishing and becoming a scowl. "We have business with them. Not with you." As commanded, Johnny let go of Jacqueline and took a step back. He grabbed every member of the Rich Clique - conscious and unconscious - and shoved them into his Hummer. 8th Street entered Christiansands, and Shaquita stood out there, [i]staring[/i] at him.... They sped off.