FunnyGuy

Young Justice

Location: Somewhere in the Everglades
Interactions: The Team (minus Metamorph)
Mentions: Metamorph

---

After making his suggestions to Daphne, Viktor stood by to listen to what her final decision would be. He might have had more faith in her but she seemed troubled while managing her communication with the Green. The way she winced every now and again before relaying a message from the flora concerned him some. It was indeed a reminder of the power these universal aspects had on those who tapped into them. The Red with Ja, the Green with Daphne, and the Black with Casper. As useful as such abilities were, they did not come lightly.

The team was quick to advance as Vincent and Cora took the sky while remaining low per Daphne's instructions. He'd have to compliment her on favoring overall stealth for better coverage and lay of the land. For now, he needed to move with the others.

Kassy had with much effort had managed to bring platforms of earth up above the surface of the swamp. They varied in quality due to the nature of the swamp. Few appeared to be made of solid stone, while most were soft or bumpy on the surface.

Daphne and Will took to the available trees and roots, which left Viktor, Kassy, and surprisingly Pei to the platforms at the lowest level above the water.

“I guess you're not flying, Iceburn.” Viktor commented with a shrug. “I’ll take point, you follow me, and Mirage can provide support from the rear.” Viktor instructed as he naturally formed a miniature squad of sorts with those left around him. Just before he got ready to take his first jump, he looked up at Zach. “Zatara, if you have any means to make our traversal easier, don't hold back.”

And with that, he jumped to the closest platform before immediately moving to the next.

"Talos, here. I've got an armed guard, some dude, and Florida Man bickering. I'll wait until Florida Man gets chased off and see where they go."

We’re close. Good. Viktor thought as he stopped on the third platform. At the same moment, Kassy made note of the alligators up ahead. Viktor figured the team might have been able to avoid the creatures but what she stated caused him to slightly tense up. She commented on the abnormality of them not only grouping up together but actively advancing toward their direction.

“... they're not pack hunters.”

“Let’s bank on them still being averse to cold. We could try to lead them away to reduce any attention to us-”

"Change of plans. I'm going in." Viktor winced while maintaining some shred of optimism but his thoughts on the situation regressed.

“Talos, Stormcaller. Fast and violent,” He directed coldly.

Avalia

Time: Noon → Evening
Location: Roshmi City → Camp
Interaction: @princess Mari, @Alivefalling Aerilyn, [@Apex Sunset] Scathael, [@Shining Sector] FIVE

---

The moment the misfit party of would-be manticore slayers got to Aerilyn’s camp, Thraash took off. He had said something along the lines of “I'll be back.” before walking along a dirt path leading deep into the wilds on his own. He was quite sure there'd be no argument with his decision, and if there was, he couldn't give two shits. No one was going to stop him from getting the fresh alaberries he wanted before the Nest went batshit, even if he had to pick them himself.

Picking alaberries beneath the warm sun might have been a pleasure to most but Thraash had the worst luck finding the sweet red berries that helped fuel his Muse Tank amplifier. Venturing back and asking for assistance from one of the others was a viable option but he felt it would make him look soft in front of the noobs.

“I’ll just fucking do this the long way.” Thraash stopped in his tracks and took a look around at his surroundings while testing out his sense of smell. His nostrils flared several times as his snout fixed in one direction at a time. What was he doing now?

“Yeah, this is it. Smells wet this way. Hehehe, I wish it wasn’t simply a stream.” Thraash was all but subtle as he set out toward the water source, trudging roughly between trees and brush while making all manner of sounds. CRUNCH. CRACK. He'd already wasted too much daylight and would sacrifice any manner of noise discipline to reach his destination. He was sure there would be questions for him upon his return but the others would have simply mind their own damned businesses!

“There!” Thraash smirked as he caught sight of a stream running steadily through the woods. A light cackle escaped him as he detached his Muse Tank from his pants. “Time to get your fill.”

—-

Hours later…

Thraash had arrived back at the camp shortly after Mari, following the scent of the freshly cooked stew that wafted from Aerilyn’s pot. In his grip was a thick fallen branch ignited in flame. It had been the third torch he had made on his way back due to how quickly his flames burned through the dry wood. As he approached, he used his rough-scaled hands to grind what was left of the enflamed branch, putting it out with a few wrist movements.

“‘Bout damn time you got somethin’ good on the flame. ‘Specially after you got us all kicked out of the fucking Nest for fighting. I mean… Who the fuck gets kicked out of the Nest FOR FIGHTING?! Us! That’s who. You damned scrubs.” Thraash complained as he proceeded to the pot until he was towering over it. He couldn’t deny its savory contents that would rest within his belly in mere moments. Snatching the ladle, he looked it over before eyeing the pot again.

He immediately noticed that drew the attention of a disapproving Aerilyn and chuckled.

“Chill, Ears! I’m not gonna put my mouth on the thing.” He set the ladle down and simply grabbed the sides of the pot and lifted it to his maw, attempting to gulp down the stew from the pot.

Young Justice

Location: Somewhere in the Everglades
Interactions: The Team (minus Metamorph)
Mentions: Metamorph

---

Viktor found himself at the very rear of the airboat, taking sole responsibility in its operation while Daphne fed him directions… Many confusing directions. He grimaced under his visor but kept quiet since he didn't have many options for how he could lead the Team to the facility they were searching for. It was hard not to think of how valuable Ja’s tracking and zoolingualism abilities would be on this mission.

“No excuses. There's never an excuse. You failed your objective.” A remnant of the past reminded.

He and the rest of the Team would have to adjust and persist.

The boat had finally reached its limit, unable to traverse in waters many thick roots reached its surface. Daphne spoke up first, informing the Team that this was the end of the line for the airboat. There were limited options but Viktor's mind was already at work. Zach made quick use of his magic by levitating, and Viktor was quite sure Cora would accomplish the same. Then there was Vincent who possessed the ability to fly using his wings. That left Kassy, Daphne, Pei, Will, and himself. They could all take the plunge into the swampy waters but Viktor considered the risks. Crocodilians and exposure to chemical contaminants were at the forefront of his mind.

“Team!” He stood up in a jungle camo-patterned version of his usual mission gear. “If Zatara can't grant us his levitation, then I recommend having Stormcaller and Talos accompanied by Iceburn follow the river while scouting forward down this waterway. It's a path we haven't taken yet and the plants gave us a hint regarding the chemical dumping. Mirage, your staff may be of use. Can you raise stone platforms in the shallow waters for us to keep us mostly out of the water? Nymph, take a break from your abilities for now. If you can use your petal form to keep above water, I recommend it. Tal- rrgh Quiver, Mirage, and I would only have to focus on keeping our footing and remaining sharp to our surroundings. Zatara would be left to give us support from above.”

Viktor felt the desire to simply everyone around but fought against the urge. Leaving an opening for nuance was necessary. Even if KJ was absent, he was far from being out of mind.

“I should be able to use the sound emitter on my rifle to disturb any opportunistic threats in the water. Agitating them might have mixed results but we'll have their positions… Objections?” He said the last word with less enthusiasm than usual which most might have found impossible.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi City → Abroad the Righteous Tern, Northbound on the Eastern Sea
Interaction:, Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, Zeva @Pink Khione, Brigitte @Tae (optional)
Mention: .
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring, Oak Wood Staff IS BACK, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 659 Amas.

---

The answers to Mister Luum’s several questions posed to the group earned a pleased grin and nods of interest from him. Even Bowyn’s charged answers failed to break his excitable spirit! Although, Zeva’s comment concerning her favorite also being purple caused a slight narrowing of his eyes. Who are you really? The words nearly lept from his lips as he continued to listen to the young elf share more about herself. He wouldn’t blurt out his thoughts this time around! Surely, it might happen again… Hell, it would definitely happen again… It was just a matter of when.

All the while, Brigitte was waiting her turn to share with the group, though she felt uneasy about what she should share. It was apparent that not every question required an answer. No one was forced to elaborate further on any response either. There was also the option of possibly just slipping into the background without uttering anything. She was almost sure no one would notice since she seemed to be in competition for least talkative with Rue, Raze, and Starfire. Still, she cleared her throat, prepared to take part with the others, or so she intended.

“Brigitte here is the second student of the University of Luum… or was it House of Luum? Eh, it matters not. Anyway, she’s traveled with and served me for a number of years now, helping me with my lifelong goal of becoming Avalia’s greatest sniper by being my spotter.” Mister Luum placed a gentle hand on Brigitte’s head while shooting her his grin. “She’s a good scout because she can see, smell, and hear things even most demihumans cannot…” He let those words linger for a bit before continuing. “She also has a love for hunting but more than anything, she loves to read and learn new things.” Mister Luum shrugged while removing his hand from her head as if there was nothing else interesting to add about her.

Once the group had finished their meal, they headed to the shops… together. Well, mostly together. Though they weren’t hand in hand or grouped up like a school of fish, they remained in eyeshot of each other. Mister Luum managed to purchase an oak wood staff to replace the one he lost previously while stating he wouldn’t allow “this one” to be stolen again. At some point, Brigitte managed to sell some of the loot taken from the gut of the malnourished owlbear. Mister Luum had wondered how the thing was alive with what the young woman had found after cutting the beast open. He didn’t even consider the poor soul that was eaten who might have been an upstarting jeweler of sorts. Excluding the 400 amas and Ring of Levitation in the leather pouch she retrieved, Brigitte was able to sell 1600 amas worth of gemstones.

When the shopping concluded, the group made a small tour of Roshmi City before boarding the ship that would take them to their destination of North Pass. The Righteous Tern, a ship belonging to Captain Treppie Blackclaw, a gruff badger demihuman who made his amas ferrying travelers across the eastern and northern see, though the latter fetched a steeper price due to the distance and occasional harassment when Avalian naval vessels searched his cargo. Mister Luum had talked the captain into making their trip private and paid him a hefty 1400 amas to allow only the Lumineers to passenger the ship for a one-way trip to North Pass. The deal warranted little argument since the travel fee was only 30 amas per person, and even transport of Starfire wasn’t questioned. Once aboard, Mister Luum found it fitting to divide the amas up amongst the other Luumineers, each receiving 100 amas for not fighting the owlbear, but for “being patient in receiving the loot.” As for the Ring of Levitation that was left over from the loot. Mister Luum tossed it to Bowyn but didn’t openly say why he chose him to take it.
. . . .

Time flew by and evening set in as the pink-hued sun sunk into the horizon. Still, its light left a faint impression on the sky while Roshmi City helped in keeping the evening in the evening of the sea from feeling like a plunge into an abyss. The ship had plenty of amenities onboard since the travel would last several hours, though some were modest. There were more than enough rooms for the group to each have their own quarters, though there were enough bedrolls in each for up to three to share a single space. Other than the Lumineers, there was the crew that handled the operation of the Righteous Tern from manning the sails to ensuring precise navigation on the waters. Beneath a canopy of the ship was a makeshift bar that had a small selection of alcohol with some recreational drugs stashed for those who were willing to ask.

As far as food, up to two meals would be provided for no additional cost though it was limited to the crews’ catch. Fish were aplenty this evening and would likely be served as a midnight snack or breakfast depending on when people felt the need to eat.

Mister Luum found himself leaning against the edge of the deck as he watched the last rays of sunlight leave Avalia. He took a deep breath of the salty sea air and exhaled a deep breath of relief. The man was unbelievably quiet as he had just remained in this very spot watching the sunset.

“We made it this far… Good.” The words softly escaped his lips as he admired the end of day. The thought of the well-being of the other groups was fleeting to him at best, though he did want to check in on Malachi. He wondered if he finally got back to smiling again.

Brigitte could be found seated at the bar toward the center of the ship, as far from the sight of water as she could. It was a mild fear but she would never want to be in a situation where she fell overboard. Her eyes scanned across the pages of a book she held titled, Majestic Scales: Dragons of Avalia. It was a book recommended by Mister Luum, though he seemed to have never read it himself which was usually the case if it didn’t exclusively pertain to magic.

tldr

Mister Luum found interest in everyone's answers and then spoke for Brigitte before she could share what she had to say to the group. The Luumineers went shopping, which was when Mister Luum purchased a staff and Brigitte sold the owlbear loot. Mister Luum used the loot to sail to North Pass privately with his group and distributed the rest of the amas to the others. He gifted Bowyn an enchanted ring of levitation. With the group traveling to North Pass, Mister Luum is watching every last trace of sunlight leave Avalia while Brigitte reads a book at the bar.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Peninsula North of Roshmi
Interaction: Cyrene @Tpartywithzombi
Mention:
Equipment: Backpack, fishing net, fishing pole, 3 medium red potions, 3 small blue potions, 1 green potion, fire starting kit, poncho, rope, frogfly named “Beebee,” cooking pot, hygiene pouch, water purifier, wooden spear, handcrafted bow and arrows, knife, wool blanket, big fish

---

“We got a fish ooh! She’ll make us rich ooh! We got a fish ooh! She’ll make us rich ooh! Scale glow at night! That’ll be a sight! Gold in my hand! Acres of land! If she sings her song! Eros won’t be wrong!” Eros sang merrily, voice booming from outside of the tent with fervor. He performed a bit of a dance as he shut his eyes and shimmied his shoulders in excitement. This was the first big break he’d gotten in a decade, so Eros couldn’t help but be giddy at the prospect of successfully catching a possible siren by sheer luck. Not only was removing a threat to weak-minded sailors from the seas, but he’d be filling his pockets as well.

Though he wished he had music, Eros was happy with just the sound of his raspy singing voice. The sudden sound of his pleading captive was not enough to take him out of his moment of joy as he hummed his song as he entered the tent where she sat uncomfortably. Within the tent he continued to bop his head to his hummed tune until his eyes landed on the naked woman.

“Oh…. OH!” Eros’ eyes widened as he noticed the exposed parts of the woman before him. “Cover! Yeah, you’re going to need um….” He searched around for anything that could assist the woman in keeping her dignity against his curious eyes. His eyes scanned the interior of the tent rapidly before they locked onto his poncho. Yes! With a swiftness he sprang to the poncho and immediately threw it at the woman. “It’s something. Not a blanket or clothes but something. Good? Good. That’s the best you’ll receive from the likes of me if you’re a siren. And don’t bother singing if you are. I have a countermeasure for any song you have prepared. In fact! I am prepared for any ability you believe may work on me if you are indeed a scourge of the sea Hmph.” Eros’ eyes held a tinge of fire in them as spoke his last words, though his confidence could not amount to the abilities he claimed.

Was he bluffing? Yes, but she didn’t know that.

Avalia

Time: Late Morning
Location: The Nest, Roshmi City
Interaction: @princess Mari, @Alivefalling Aerilyn, [@Apex Sunset] Scathael, [@Shining Sector] FIVE

---

More and more. Bit by bit. Thraash regained feeling. Initially, it was simply his fingers and toes, wriggling against the fading numbness. Momentarily, his entire body swayed against the floor while his limbs found strength. A low growl preceded a groan from his effort to push himself up.

The conflict seemed to have already been resolved but Thraash was feeling more ornery than ever. Once again, Mari’s silver tongue had saved their asses. It was always that or his Muze Box. Their talents were a wicked combination of separate art styles that collaborated strangely well in tandem. He had saved her smooth hide at the fort so this made them even… Then again, he was so close to being wasted in this trash heap of a bar.

Thraash couldn’t help but grit his teeth as he established his balance upon standing up, his arms out to keep balance before his eyes met the visage of the warforged. As solid as he thought the metal man was, he couldn’t help but want to get another go at him. Poison was cheap. Sure, he could have easily been born with the same breath weapon as his mother, concentrated chlorine gas but… Who was he kidding, he’d use that shit because it was solid as fuck. To make your foes drop with a whiff of your toxic breath was something to admire. Still, Thraash was a poor sport at the moment. With his teeth still grit, he took a step toward the warforged, the two closer than what most would deem comfortable. He stared for several seconds before he let loose a scoff.

“Dispell any hostility henceforth?” The dragonborn smirked as if to challenge the repeated words. “It’s a deal, warforged, but you gotta fix your fuckin’ voice box or somethin’. No offense to Mari but you sound like a haughty light elf with shit taste in music. Fix it.” Thraash shook his head rapidly in an effort to shake away the slight numbness he still felt before he picked up his axe from the floor. “If not then just… talk less if you can help it. Name’s Thraash. You probably already know it since you’re a dying fan…Hmph… killing fan would fit better but…” Thraash leaned in a bit, closing the distance just a little more. “That’s passed huh? You’re part of our solid band of elite cutthroat hardcore killers. Fuckin’ rebels to the society around us. The leftovers. The fuckin’ ragers that ain’t gonna fuckin’ stop until we incinerate the system around us! You’re either solid or weak. And you. You’re solid as fuck, and I’m not talking about the steel for skin you got on your body.” He took a step back and turned to Mari.

“Good shit, little light. You fucked up our parley with Ears at the start but now we got a shockwave hammer-wielding bunny and a warforged that might be just as solid as I am."

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Peninsula North of Roshmi
Interaction: Cyrene @Tpartywithzombi
Mention:
Equipment: Backpack, fishing net, fishing pole, 3 medium red potions, 3 small blue potions, 1 green potion, fire starting kit, poncho, rope, frogfly named “Beebee,” cooking pot, hygiene pouch, water purifier, wooden spear, handcrafted bow and arrows, knife, wool blanket, big fish

---

“Hmm…” Eros stared inquisitively at the collapsed seafaring demihuman he had swiftly knocked out. He crouched down and poked his index finger against her forehead, cheeks, and shoulders. “Beebee, I don't think she's a siren. That was way too simple…. Hmm, or maybe I was clever in striking swiftly before she could trick me with her voice.” Despite speaking to the frogfly, he kept his eyes on the stranger.

Eros knew he had to remain wary of the possibility of the creature lying here being a murderous siren. He heard many tales of them in his youth, of how they lured their victims in with their beautiful voices and appearances. Once drawn in close enough, their target is drowned and later eaten raw.

A grimace showed on the monkey man's face as he thought how many this one might have killed if she was indeed a monster of the depths. Using his fingers, he carefully parted her lips, revealing the sharp teeth beneath.

“Beebee… I think she's a siren,” Eros said, quickly contradicting his previous statement. The frogfly simply chirped unintelligibly with no rhyme or reason except for creating a responsive noise to Eros' words. “So we're in agreement. Good… No. Great!” With a grin, Eros removed his fingers from the woman's mouth and moved to undo his rope from the net he had cast. It only took him several seconds to unfasten the knot before he returned with his loose rope in hand. “We got a big catch, Beebee. It isn't a fish for eating but a monster for selling!” He started to tie the rope around the stranger's wrists. “All we need is to find a black market and become the richest duo in all Avalia. Imagine it! We could buy so much good fruit. The expensive ones too! The expensive ones are always tasty or so I hear.” With a low grunt, Eros hoisted her up over his shoulder with little to no consideration in the comfort of his captive. Her front half was hanging facedown over his back, while her tail drooped over his front.

“Let's go Beebee! We have to pack and set our sights for Roshmi… Ugh, I hate Roshmi.” Beebee chirped once more. “Right, we both hate Roshmi. Well, we can at least relish the trek there. And maybe even run our final test on our purse along the way too.” He patted the potential siren's tail where her backside would be. “Our pockets will be tight if her scales glow at night! Haha!”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Roshmi!
Interaction:Brigitte @Tae, Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, Zeva @Pink Khione, Brigitte @Tae (optional)
Mention: A strange What If scenario.
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring, Oak Wood Staff!, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 560 Amas. Oh! And Owlbear loot that he hasn't shared

---

After Mister Luum and Brigitte received their delectable treats, the two took seats at the table with everyone else. Mister Luum couldn’t help but grin at the warm and sticky honeyed toast oozing with sweetness!

“Whoever decided that we should come here needs to be paid and laid right this moment.” He snatched a slice of honeyed toast from the plate he and Brigitte were sharing and nearly stuffed his mouth in his attempt to eat it in one bite. Using a finger, he forced the toast to submit to the demands of his appetite, pushing into through his lips. Brigitte on the other hand, remained her modest self, taking small bites out of the slice she carefully picked from the plate.

The table had fallen silent for quite some time. The treats were simply that good. To put such a tense group at peace was impressive, yet such a feat would not last long as Mister Luum’s eyes lingered on each person at the table. His grin remained intact, making his silent staring all the more creepy.

“Hmm…” He gave his following words a bit of an introduction with this. He also noticeably cleared his throat, took a deep breath, and gave his chin a soft rubbing. The elf had to be sure his merry band was listening to what he said next. “I think we could be doing much better as members of the Luumineers. I’ve been around you people for what? A month? I don’t even know what your life goals are! No knowledge of any of your favorite colors, sexual preferences, likes, dislikes, kinks, fears, pet peeves, beliefs, debts owed… Nothing!” Mister Luum actually frowned for once as he nodded his head to affirm the lack of connection with this group.

“You know what…” He was still nodding but his expression seemed to pick up some. “As the lead Luumineer, I should be the one to start. Yes! To share who I am with my fellows. Yes! So, here goes nothing… Oh, and you all will participate. You will. Okay, I’m ready. I am Mister Luum… formally, so I think it’s safe for you lot to simply say ‘Luum’ if you like. I personally think the Mister gives my name some needed zest but you can drop the Mister if it suits you. My favorite color is violet, though I also like certain shades of purple! I like talking about magic theory and telling stories about my epic adventures! I… very much dislike illusionists. Seriously, they should die or something… Anyway, my religion, yes. I primarily worship the mighty and philanderous god, Solaris. He’s basically my spirit animal. A man able to juggle two women for eons is deserving of godhood. Fuck being the god of the sun I say… And there I go rambling. Sorry, I am very religious. Anyway, debts… The important ones are paid. Now, my life goal. I have a big one but it is also quite simple. I, Mister Luum, desire to be Avalia’s greatest sniper. Yes! The best anyone has ever encountered on the battlefield.” He shut his eyes and shrugged smugly. “Bowyn? Bardulf? One of you should go next. Do it for the Luumineers won’t you..”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Peninsula North of Roshmi
Interaction: Cyrene @Tpartywithzombi
Mention:
Equipment: Backpack, fishing net, fishing pole, 3 medium red potions, 3 small blue potions, 1 green potion, fire starting kit, poncho, rope, frogfly named “Beebee,” cooking pot, hygiene pouch, water purifier, wooden spear, handcrafted bow and arrows, knife, wool blanket

---

Eros’ amber eyes squinted into those of the fish woman lying on the bank before him. He attempted to discern what she truly was while understanding food was no longer an option… not unless he chopped his catch at the waistline.

"You do not wish to dine on me, sir, I assure you," He simply frowned. Maybe if you were a delicious tuna… The waistline would still be a fish, right? Right?! Hmm…. Eros couldn’t help but lick his lips as he looked at the bottom half of the mermaid, even despite her words.

"Please, release me from this, and I shall swiftly depart. I'm even prepared to compensate you for the inconvenience of your damaged net."

"I can provide you with coin for your troubles if that would help persuade you."

Eros grunted before approaching the woman and crouching in front of her tangled form. Again, his tongue flicked at his lips, his eyes still narrowed. With a swift movement of his hand, Eros pinched Cyrene’s cheek. The gesture was swift and almost like a poke on her cheek except for the faintest feeling of pain.

Beebee chirped behind him, causing him to briefly glance back at the miniature pet of his.

“Enjoy the mermaids while the sun is bright… Beware the sirens glow during night… Hmm… Yes.” He wore a serious expression as he nodded to the maiden, not exchanging another word. His hand was swift as before, but a pinch was not in order this time around. Without a word or warning, Eros bopped the woman with a closed fist on the top of her head. A strike so vicious and violent with the intent to knock Cyrene out cold in a single bash.

Young Justice

Zach & Viktor

The Warrior and Wizard's Parley PARTAY!

---

The day had finally come, and Viktor was well prepared for what he was going to get ready to do. The team seemed to be in especially low spirits at the moment. Alisa had left the team, KJ had been benched, and Daphne was on her period… so it only seemed right to try to mend the bridge once burned with Zach. Things hadn't been right since the Last Vegas mission and this one-on-one was long overdue.

Viktor entered the lounge where he figured Zach might be. The magician had one of the couches to himself. Hell, he had the lounge to himself until Viktor walked in with a legal pad and two pens in hand.

“Greetings, Zach.” Viktor simply stood by the couch with his supplies in hand.

Zach was playing on his phone, and then he looked up and raised an eyebrow when Viktor spoke to him. “Oh, you’re actually talking to me outside of work? To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Well…” Viktor made a look of discomfort before he sat down beside him. He felt like his thought-out plans for this were already beginning to crumble. “Yes, I am. I want to… I need your help… and I want to make things right between us.” Viktor set the legal pad down on the coffee table. “We're both very different people but we're also on the same team. And being a team is more than just the missions we go on, yes?”

Zach nodded. “Absolutely!” Zach sighed. “Alright, I guess… I should say it first. I’m sorry about the Vegas thing…”

“Vegas…” Viktor averted his gaze, scowling at a spot on the ground. “Well… I am surprised you apologized for that. It's a good thing. It is but my issues with you stem from more than just the ‘Vegas thing.’” Viktor's eyes met Zach's again, his expression dull. “At times, I think you should be called ‘Iceburn,’ Zach. It's Pei's alias but it describes your nature.”

Zach raised an eyebrow “What is that supposed to mean?”

“Iceburn.” Viktor quickly looked around to ensure he didn't summon her. “Cold and hot. Sometimes you're dependable. Hot. Sometimes you're not. Cold. Why is this? Why can't you just be… consistent?” Viktor's tone was more curious rather than harsh. Even his face looked to be seeking an answer he himself hadn't come up with.

“Because I’m Zachary Zatara darling. You never know what you’re gonna get!” He replied in a sassy tone. “After all, I am a magician. Being an enigma is my specialty!” Zach laughed, but he could tell very quickly that Viktor wasn’t joking. “In all seriousness though. I wonder that all the time…

“Hmm… I can admit you've at least gotten better at being hot so-” Viktor sighed as he realized his choice of words. He knew using metaphor might be problematic sooner or later. He winced at first but then he chuckled.

“Apologies. I meant to say, maybe your relationship with Mateo isn't a bad thing.”

“Thank you! I like him a lot. I just wish I could bring him here. This long-distance thing is killing my vibe… Um… Anyway, what did you need help with?”

“I…” Viktor looked toward the legal pad. It seemed he expected Zach to have more pushback but perhaps Viktor didn't know the magician as well as he thought. “I wanted to plan a second Vegas trip as a getaway of sorts. And it has to be better to make up for what occurred last time. I figured the ‘Shock and Awe’ duo would be best suited.”

“Sounds fun. I’m in!”

“Perfect.” Viktor managed a rare smile at Zach. “Since we're not 21, we have two options. We break the law with fake identities or we make use of the attractions suited to us. There's plenty to do but… should this be another guys' night?”

Zach nodded. “Yes. Yes, it should. The girls have plenty of fun without us anyway.” Viktor had already begun to pen down notes but stopped upon hearing this.

“They do?” Viktor raised an eyebrow before writing “Girls” and striking an “X” through it.

“Of course. The whole reason I did the Vegas thing the first time was because they had a slumber party without us…”

“A slumber party? You mean the gathering they had in the lounge? Fun?” Viktor shrugged and dared not explain how he knew about the slumber party. “To each their own, I guess. Also, a smaller group might be better for this trip… Mateo could come as well. If you want him to.”

Zach’s eyes lit up. “Oh my gosh yes! I would love that! A trip to Vegas with my BF would be great.” But then he realized something. “Wouldn’t that be kind of awkward for you though? You’d be the third wheel…”

“Third wheel? Zach, I would be the sixth wheel since my intention is to invite Vincent, Kila, and… Will.” Viktor forced the final name out with aversion. “Despite that, thanks for the consideration… friend.” Viktor smiled warmly.

Zach grinned from ear to ear. “You’re welcome. And… neat, Young Justice Boys night! This will be great! Vegas won’t know what hit them!” Zach threw a hand up in the air and shouted. Ittefnoc! A bunch of colorful confetti came out of Zach’s hand and got everywhere while smiled, actually finding the spectacle amusing. The “Shock and Awe” of the team were finally back in sync.