FunnyGuy

Young Justice

_{E P I S O D E FIVE : G R O W I N G P A I N S}

T H E H O T S P O T C A F E

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^{June 23th, 2021 | 15:17pm. | Taos, New Mexico}

The Team talked separately to many different teens at the youth center. It turned out the number of missing teens was even higher than what they were told during the briefing. In the span of two weeks almost eleven teens went missing, nearly one a day. They further discovered a trio of teens had banded together as an independent crime-fighting team, much like the initiative, but without any supervision. It consisted of Charlie, Cecile, and Thiago. They called their team Omen.

While coming up with a plan of action the Team was joined by the remaining members of Omen, Cecile and Charlie. They compared findings, deciding their objectives were the same. The Team and Omen set up a plan. Taos wasn’t a large place and Thiago was likely the most recently abducted teen. He not only fit the bill for the other abductees but Charlie also knew Thiago’s last known location was an eatery, and probably a decent establishment if he was going on a date.

Both teams would investigate a location of interest. The Team went to one of the local cafes, The Hotspot to search for clues. Many of the missing teens were reported to have visited this specific cafe prior to going missing. Omen opted for a second location of interest a couple of blocks away.

The plan was to sit and observe while also taking the opportunity to search for any potential clues while remaining inconspicuous. It was unsure what they were looking for exactly. The cafe was relatively busy, a popular date spot in town. The only competition it had was the diner across the street. On the surface, everything seemed normal enough.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Myra @13org, Maeryn @princess, Alaia @Alivefalling
Mentions:

Equipment:

Outfit (left)
Disguise Ring (Appearance)

---

Astra was glad to see that Myra liked the effects of the disguise ring. Thank goodness. she bent over to address Myra face to face.

“Now I only have to explain to others why you don’t talk much.” Astra smiled warmly at the demon. Her objective of grooming Myra was going well even with Vrexen’s influence. Her eyes settled on the large lizard creature he now appeared to be. As crazy as you are, I wouldn’t mind Myra being a little more vicious. Once that’s achieved, you are definitely out of the picture…

Alaia inviting Vrexen to take a walk drew her attention. Eh… Astra failed to hide the concern that painted her face. Even she hadn’t spent a moment alone with the creature. She watched for Vrexen’s response.

“Hmm…” Vrexen hummed as he stared at Alaia. “Worth it?” He doubted the creature could offer him anything of worth to him, and at the moment he would much rather travel alongside Maer-.

"Do not bring any unnecessary attention to yourselves."

His mind changed with just a string of words from the dark elf. Astra tensed up as she noticed the way Vrexen was looking at Maeryn.

“You believe you rule me…” Vrexen turned from the others as he started walking off the boardwalk and deeper into town. “You will not want me to test that belief.” He continued walking, leaving the others. Astra shrugged and smirked at Maeryn.

“I think you two are better apart anyway.” Astra felt better whenever Vrexen went his own way anyhow. The only thing that worried her was that this was not Aldrakh. They were in a neutral territory this time around. On the other hand, Astra knew Riverport a lot better, especially the seedier side. “We can try Surfside first but there are some other spots we can visit after. I got an old friend that works nights at Shakey Dock.”

Code Vein (Closed)

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Location: Desmond & Amelia's Room, Observatory
Interactions: Lys @Force and Fury, Desmond @Theyra, Poppy @dreamingflowers
Mentions:

---

“I should…” Erik quickly replied to Poppy while standing straight up. He took a few steps away from Amelia’s bedside before about-facing. “...keep watch from right here.” Erik spoke with a smile but there was a challenging look in his eyes. The crossing of his arms at his chest only helped him plant himself in the spot he stood in.

Pops…

That woman probably tested his upbeat mood more than anyone he’d seen anyone join the Commune. It did not help that she was quite averse to how he carried himself as well, but Erik was stubborn in keeping things warm here. He wanted to say more or even confront her, but again, now was not the time. Amelia was the priority and he wasn’t just going to leave just because Poppy wanted to be a grouch.

Young Justice

♡ with Alisa (Cybergirl) and Aleen'a (Brightheart) ♡
Location: Cafeteria, Metahuman Youth Center

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Eena… Alisa barely held back a giggle when she heard Aleen’a’s fake name. She grabbed a tray and followed Cecile and “Eena” into the line. Alisa wasn’t sure that she wanted to eat, but it might help her identity to be seen eating. Maybe just a bit of nachos.

“That it is much safer?” Cecile briefly grimaced before feigning a warm smile. “Of course it is! Especially for us! I mean…” Upon realizing she misspoke, Cecile averted her gaze with a nervous laugh. Sure, it was safe… but only for the girls since they weren't being kidnapped.

Aleen’a looked at Cecile and then at the other teenagers within the cafeteria. “I am aware that we have just met today but you must understand. Our life… We have been running from danger ever since, trying to find a place where we can feel truly at peace.” She carefully took the human’s hands and wrapped her hands around Cecile’s. “You have invited us into your home. Let us help you defend it.”

Alisa laughed, shaky, and grabbed Aleen’a’s arm. Oh, why did she have to blow their cover by saying something so weird? And now Cecile was judging both of them with that uneasy smile of hers.

“What Eena means to say is…” Alisa scrambled for an appropriate save. “We heard about the kidnappings-” she stage-whispered that word- “and we, um, well… can I trust you with something super, extra secret, Cecile? Cross your heart and swear to die? Maybe we should talk in private…” Alisa had a nuts idea, but maybe it could get them even closer to the truth.

“Uhhh…” Cecile looked between Aleen'a and Alisa with slight concern. Her hands were still in Aleen'a's which only made the whole situation feel even more awkward. “A secret that has to do with the kidnappings?” Cecile questioned with a raised eyebrow. It wasn't the best icebreaker, but Cecile appeared interested enough. “Okay… we can sit over there.” She pointed to a vacant table in the corner of the cafeteria.

As they walked to the tables, Alisa pulled Aleen’a to the side. She whispered in her ear, “I have an idea. I can’t explain it but just go with it. I promise it makes sense.”

Ale looked at Alisa then at Cecile, then back at Alisa again. ”Yes. I trust you. Whatever shall help us with the mission.” She said before she followed both of them to get their food.

Once the three received their helping of nachos and toppings, they took the available seats at the table pointed out by Cecile.

“So.” Alisa sat down with her tray across from Cecile, not touching the food. “You swear not to tell anyone?” At Cecile’s nod, Alisa soldiered on. “We’re not actually residents here. We’re, erm, metahuman vigilantes trying to investigate the kidnappings. And we think you could help us. Right, Eena?” Alisa whispered and nudged Aleen’a to corroborate her story.

“You’re…metahuman vigilantes…” Cecile stared blankly at the two.

Aleen'a looked at Alisa with a bit of shock on her face. She thought this was supposed to be a secret mission but her friend already admitted everything to one of them. Granted she didn’t actually say who they were exactly but still, it was a very huge risk that she took. Yet Cecile suddenly perked with a smile.

“You lie! Come on are you two serious?!” Cecile noticed she was speaking a tad too loud and cupped her mouth with both hands before leaning forward to whisper. “Don’t freak out but… I’m also a metahuman vigilante trying to investigate the kidnappings! We should definitely team up! Plus, two girls on the same team! I like the guys I’m with but jeez it sucks to be the only girl. I am always trying to tell them that the whole voting system we have isn’t fair with only- sorry I’m blabbing. Sorry. I- Anyway, what’s your team name? Wait, are you part of the Titans?!”

Aleen'a was about to say something but much to her surprise, Cecile admitted that she too was trying to investigate the kidnappings as well. Was she lying or was she actually telling the truth? It was hard to hone in on Cecile’s emotions when Aleen’a's psyche was all over the place too. Nevertheless, the Tamaranean gave Alisa her word and she would trust the judgment of her friend.

“I am sorry but… We have no knowledge of these ‘Titans’ that you speak of.” Aleen'a said. “Just know that this mission means so much to us just as it means to you too. We will do everything in our power to make sure these kids are safe and well…” She glanced down at the nachos that were just oozing with all these different kinds of toppings. She took one that was mostly covered in them and ate it.

Alisa didn’t bother to smother the shocked look on her face. There was no way she had guessed that. Was Cecile fucking with her, or were there really two teenage superhero teams running around this center? “Wow, that’s awesome. Your team name first! Who else is in on it?”

“Our team name…” Cecile averted her gaze nervously before sighing. “Omen… Trust me, I know it sucks but I was outvoted. The boys always win when it comes to anything creative. Like, do I look like an edge-lord? Omen,” she rolled her eyes as she mocked the name.

“Omen…” Aleen’a quietly repeated to herself. This made no sense. They should have been briefed that there was another team involved in the investigation of the missing teens. It was highly unlikely of the Justice League to hide such information from their team that would be of great help to their mission. Was it possible Cecile was speaking the truth or was it all just a ruse to trick them? It’s highly unlikely Cecile would admit to who they were working for as well because Aleen’a and her teammates would never disclose such important information. Not only could it jeopardize the mission, but it could also endanger the kidnapped teens.

“Our team is called… The Outsiders.” She said, glancing at Alisa before continuing. “We are all outcasts of our home, outsiders to our own community. We became the Outsiders in the hopes that no one would feel like one again as long as we are here.” Aleen’a ate another nacho chip before sighing. Cecile raised an eyebrow. She wasn’t fond of that name either. At least it had a decent explanation to go with it.

“Yes! Yes. The Outsiders!” Alisa beamed. “Omen’s not that bad, and ours is a little edgy too.” She took another chip, chewing on it slowly and glancing at Aleen’a. The poor girl looked stunned. She’d have to explain later.

“I wasn’t going to admit that.” She smiled as she finally took a chip for herself.

Well, she’d have to come up with an explanation later. Alisa herself wasn’t entirely sure what she’d gotten them into. “So? Should we collaborate? Try to find all the missing boys?”

“I can’t imagine going forward any other way! A team-up. You get your people, and I’ll get mine… After nachos of course.” Cecile appeared as if the excitement might jump off of her. This is going to be AWESOME!

Code Vein (Closed)

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Location: Desmond & Amelia's Room, Observatory
Interactions: Lys @Force and Fury, Desmond @Theyra, Poppy @dreamingflowers
Mentions:

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Erik should have predicted Desmond’s reaction to his baseless assumption and he almost wished he hadn’t said anything, at least not the way he had. The old revenant held back a sigh of displeasure and instead set his gaze on the siblings. Desmond… I don’t think he could take losing her again, but… There was slight brief wincing of his eyes. ...what if she isn’t there when she wakes? Erik didn’t believe Amelia would simply forget her own brother, but Erik knew too well how even a single experience can make up so much of a person.

“The Commune will figure this out for sure.” And Mr. Optimism was back. “Amelia has the two best docs and her brother. Couldn’t ask for a better team to nurse her back to health.” He smiled warmly to assure the concerned Desmond.

When Lys had returned, she had both the blood beads and testing kit supplies with her. When handed to him, Erik held a blood bead in each of his hands.

“Oh, you know I would never get in the way of greatness. We have two of the peachiest docs working side by side.” He grinned before holding up the blood bead in his right hand, admiring the bright red liquid within. “But just in case…” He deliberately trailed off.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Myra @13org, Maeryn @princess, Alaia @Alivefalling
Mentions:

Equipment:

Outfit (left)

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^{Mother… my time here has been… ehhh… it has been fruitful, yes. More and more of these creatures accept our eventual conquest… and my violence. My brethren… The sins… I hate them… I know why you sent those fools and… I will kill… No… Yes! I will kill their ability to impress you… Yes, mother, I shall… I will amass more followers. I spread more violence. Gnash, shred, peel, tear… I will… I will show them all what violence is. No one will be a stranger to it. I promise mother. I promise… I promise…}

This was one of the many mutterings from Vrexen that were mostly too low and incoherent to pay any attention to. During their travel, the red-faced demon kept to himself whenever he wasn’t being directly addressed. Anything to keep himself sane. Sleep usually kept his lust down, and so that’s what he did toward the tail end of their journey to River Port.

“Darkness…” His eyes shot open and he peered up to the sky to find the absence of the sun that had tortured him on the way to Aldrakh. Vrexen wore a toothy grin towards the two moons. “Goooood.” He simply commented.

“Agreed. You are no fun in the sun, my friend.”
Astra commented with a grin.

“I am not your friend you fool!”

Well fuck you too.

---

Moments later…

Astra strode across the boardwalk with a slight grin on her face as she looked at the other races the group passed. She looked in Maeryn’s direction with every murmur that escaped him. Vrexen on the other hand just took in the scenery, finding this location to appear much different from those he had traveled to previously. The group took a brief pause as Maeryn removed his backpack before digging through it. A low growl escaped Vrexen from the sudden holdup. Once the dark elf hunter popped up with a peculiar ring, Astra couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Now that’s probably the second-worst proposal I think I’ve gotten. But seriously, do y-”

"Nobody likes you."

“Tch! You say that as if orcs are welcomed everywhere, you dwarf-fodder!” Astra hurled an unneeded insult back. Her scowl towards the towering orc shifted to Maeryn who looked the least comfortable she’d seen him so far. “Calm down, handsome. The war isn’t here yet. See?” She pointed at the children running around with small mallets in hand. “Can’t believe I missed Slime Day… Anyway, I’ll get the rings I purchased in Aldrakh so we can disguise the nudists.” Astra reach into her bag to grab two rings, one being many sizes larger than the other.

“Disguise?” Vrexen questioned while taking a step toward Astra.

“Yeah, it’s something to keep-”

“Hand it over! I shall only use it to stalk my prey.” Vrexen snatched a large gold ring from Astra before slipping it onto one of his clawed fingers. Astra reached forward and turned the ring. A brief flash converted his appearance to that of a large red-scaled lizard demi-human. Vrexen looked upon his new appearance with a snarl, appearing unsure if he favored his faux appearance. “I am no stranger to new forms. Violence will be delivered all the same”

“If you like it, I love it.” Astra gave Vrexen a wink before facing Myra with a ring. “Now, I got yours set to give you something to cover you up. Clothes that don’t get in the way.” Astra would place the ring on Myra’s finger and turn it if she let her.

₁

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Dante @Alivefalling, Menzai @samreaper
Mentions:

Equipment:

Sword
Old leather hat
Worn and torn sweatpants and t-shirt

---

Lunch was definitely needed for Darius and Dante and it was apparent with how much they both scarfed down. The younger of the two brothers stole curious glances at the canine demi-human who offered to essentially be their safety net while they remained in Avalia. It wasn’t the worst deal. With how he continued to explain it at the table, the two pretty much had plenty of freedom until they did something that would surely get them killed. Darius would have preferred a more hands-on companion but beggars couldn’t be choosers.

“Menzai is here to help us, but we need more than just his type of help y’know?” Darius sighed. “We don’t have much to spend but I think we could use some sleep.”

At first, the Cheap Chambers was suggested but rooms were booked to hell due to Slime Day. Darius wondered where they could go to get a nap, and thats when Dante pointed to the beach. Darius thought his brother was kidding before Dante began to go on about sand being a good combination of soft and firm. All they needed was shade which was somewhat provided by a cluster of palm trees close to the Inn by the Sea. The group would likely be confused for homeless vagrants by the natives of this world but some sleep was needed. Oh yeah, and it also helped that this side of the beach wasn’t littered with slime.

It took some time, but Darius drifted off to dreamland, sleeping outside yet again.

“Wake up!” Dante’s loud voice was enough to wake him from his slumber with a low groan. The once sunlit beach was not shrouded in the darkness of night. The two moons above provided enough light for Darius to make out Dante and Menzai.

“It’s wake up Sir Blackbourn to you, Major Payne.” Darius chuckled as he sat up and stretched out his arms. “That was way better than sleeping in the forest. Still could use an actual bed but it is what it is, right?” He stood up and brushed sand from his clothes. “What should we get first? And Menzai you are welcome to give us some insight.” Darius didn’t care if Menzai was meant to be a fly on the wall, he’d pull the guy in whenever possible.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: The Inn, Myriamor
Interactions: Leaf @Helo, Aurora @Mole, Caelan @Alivefalling, Sophie @princess
Mentions:

Equipment:

Pocket watch
Black stetson
Hat and Cowl
Black Duster Outfit
Repeating Crossbow
12 Iron Bolts
Champ (Oak Horse)
One-horse open sleigh
Hunting knife
Rope
Saddlebag
Black neckerchief
Tinder box
Canteen
Matches
Two Gold nuggets
$40
Black swim trunks

---

From the blacksmith to the inn. That was the plan, and Slick ensured that plan went along smoothly. The man would go along with whatever would keep him alive, especially after witnessing what might be the fate of any human that wasn’t careful.

The bold outlaw left the blacksmith’s shop after purchasing 30 steel bolts for 450 amas. It hadn’t been the deal he hoped for but he felt he was better equipped than some of the others. The prospect of wielding elemental magic lingered in the back of his thoughts. He was aware it was something he’d need to hone, but right now the only tangible solution in a tight situation was a few fired bolts or a good stabbing with his bowie knife.

When leaving the blacksmith, the group headed to the inn with Slick generally leading on account of his ability to see and having been to the spot previously. Leaf assisted as well, with his general knowledge of the city. The cheetah demi-human was mostly responsible for keeping Slick from taking “the more scenic route” which had been the outlaw’s excuse when taking any unnecessary turns.

Once at the inn, Slick noticed it was exactly as he remembered it… well almost. The tired gecko man was no longer working at the front, replaced by a smiling wide-eyed elven man. The others had purchased their rooms while Slick mosied over to the one he had shared with Kuroi. Once unpacked, he enjoyed another meal with the others and subtly joined in on how to plan out training with their magic. It wasn’t easy trying to think of a location for the humans to openly use their magic, and so Slick volunteered Leaf and himself to find some spots outside of town to serve as discreet campsites. It was during the alone time with Leaf that Slick mentioned helping free the lioness from Sturdy Stables.

“I reckon it’ll be easy.” Were one of his many assurances as they traveled from location to location until the pink orb in the sky was halfway beneath the horizon.

Returning to the inn yet again, Slick looked at Leaf before they’d reunite with the others.

“I’m thinkin’ this catknappin’s gonna be a two man job… If you’re pickin’ up what I’m puttin’ down. The others ain’t got a taste for this flavor of life.” He shrugged. “Then again, it’s your call.”

Avalia

The Other Bandits

Time: Night
Location: Desert
Interactions: @hide on mana Kuroi, @dragonpiece Uzul

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“We found ‘em! There they are!” The boisterous shout of a feline demihuman alerted Kuroi and Uzul to the presence of their attackers.

“This is supposed to be an AMBUSH!” An elven woman yelled in annoyance while summoning an orb of light in her left palm.

“Whatever, let’s kill them.” A blue dragonborn in black armor holding a large battle axe spoke closing in on the two.

A snake demihuman calmly joined, snapping a serraded whip. He paused to glare at the feline. ”I hope you die, you infantile waste of air.”He hissed at him. Nonetheless, his attention turned on the vulpine and he suddenly charged him. He snapped his whip forward in his direction, not wasting time.

A pale-skinned orc covered in blood snickered from the shadows creeping ever closer crawling on all fours, a mass of fast moving hair made from spiders sprawled down his back. “Yesss! Yesss! Your blood and flesh will make a fine meal for my children.”

Code Vein (Closed)

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Location: Desmond & Amelia's Room, Observatory
Interactions: Cerise @medili, Lys @Force and Fury, Desmond @Theyra, Poppy @dreamingflowers
Mentions: Akaia @Exit]

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Even when Lys spoke discontentedly toward him, Erik continued wearing a cheeky grin. Allowing Poppy and Desmond to take the lead, Erik waited for Lys in the hall who was quick despite the appearance of her flushed face.

“To Amelia we go!” With that Erik briskly walked alongside Lys to Desmond and Amelia’s room. “I wonder what it is.” He commented lowly before the two entered the room. Naturally, he wanted to take in everything set in place within the living quarters so unfamiliar to him. The revenant had always been interested in how others set up their rooms but now was not the time. His eyes rested on Amelia who appeared to be mildly uncomfortable. He took a few steps forward as he tried to guess what was going on for himself. He was nowhere near as versed in taking care of people and addressing ailments as Lys and Poppy but he was the only revenant in the room right now. And on the topic of rooms.

He watched Poppy move from Amelia and silently shut the door in Akaia’s face. A brief furrow of his brow gave away how he felt about the medic’s actions… Again, now was not the time. Letting his expression soften, he faced Poppy who spoke of running blood tests.

“Blood test?” He echoed. “Listen, I’m not a doctor but maybe instead of taking blood from of a revenant, you should give her some instead.” Erik walked close to the head of Amelia’s bed and crouched down at her bedside. “Revenants don’t get sick. They frenzy.” He stated as if presenting an argument while keeping his eyes on the resting revenant. “So someone should go grab a blood bead or one of you two can make a generous donation.” Well received or not, a smile of amusement formed on his lips.