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[Snowpocalypse] Stuck and Unstuck (H 3.1)
To Hadden:
A week or so has passed. Mostly lying low, working stuff on the side. Handplant and K2 haven't been around much, but Oakley has been working double-time. You've got a new crew member lately, not official, but sort of a trial basis. Who is it?
Let's see how your downtime has been. Roll +Hot. On a success, choose options. On a 7-9, choose two. On a 10+, you got a line on Seatbelt, plus you can choose three options.
* Arbor wants you to set up a meet with the Preservers about some shit he found in Underlake
* Mimsy has NOT caught up with you to give you shit about Molotov and vengeance for Underlake
* You're rocking those gigs! Take a +1Forward on Moonlighting
* Trespass escorted you out of Roxy's place of business, but she set up a private meeting for you "later"
PS: Don't forget to roll Moonlighting!
A week or so has passed. Mostly lying low, working stuff on the side. Handplant and K2 haven't been around much, but Oakley has been working double-time. You've got a new crew member lately, not official, but sort of a trial basis. Who is it?
Let's see how your downtime has been. Roll +Hot. On a success, choose options. On a 7-9, choose two. On a 10+, you got a line on Seatbelt, plus you can choose three options.
* Arbor wants you to set up a meet with the Preservers about some shit he found in Underlake
* Mimsy has NOT caught up with you to give you shit about Molotov and vengeance for Underlake
* You're rocking those gigs! Take a +1Forward on Moonlighting
* Trespass escorted you out of Roxy's place of business, but she set up a private meeting for you "later"
PS: Don't forget to roll Moonlighting!
Comments
No shit laying low. I figured I'd bop out to Squirrel, find Seatbelt, and then just fucking split that eight jingle while trying not to laugh that we're selling them their own damn generator back.
See how well that's working out. And I thought I was paranoid before? Handplant and Oakley are probably worried about me. I don't even know what the fuck Molotov is doing - he's gotta know I'm looking for him - is he want me insulted and pissed off? And I can't barely even think about anyone else lest I break any more dishes.
Since it looks like Rossi's out of the saving-my-ass business, I've had to hook up with CTO of all people, he's been watching my back. The knife is for show... mostly. He favors a crossbow and is a total asshole about always digging out his bolts. Makes sense, but still, I get it, you don't need to tell me again. Of course he's good with a gun, too. Not sure it's gonna work out in the long run.
This is CTO, by the way:
(Rolled: 2d6+1. Rolls: 3, 5. Total: 9)
- Deliveries (1-barter/bushwacked)
- Brokering deals (1-barter/shut out)
- Obligation gig: Keeping K2 happy (you keep her happy / you fucking blow it)
- Obligation gig: Keeping Tindy happy (you keep her happy / you fucking blow it)
(Rolled: 2d6+3. Rolls: 3, 3. Total: 9)Let's pick up at Red Brick Road. This tune is playing:
There are a few merchants here, talking deals. A dandy sits by the bar. A boy toy is chatting him up, seems to be going well. Four Soulja Boys have just stopped in, looking around. No Lootenant, lucky for you. They've got standard issue pistols and M-16s, they could tear up some shit if they were so inclined. But they look mostly worn from patrolling.
You're currently sitting with Tindy, sharing a drink. She was escorted here by Arbor. You just left Oakley at Market where he was setting up deals and trying to work in some side stuff overlake for Silica. CTO is with you, though.
Tindy takes a long drink from the glass she bought. She's dripping jingle. "Haddy, your Mimsy is sorely pissed at you. It was all I could do to get her to agree to let me hunt you down. When are you gonna get Molotov for what he did? Or at least, what should I tell her?"
She looks over her shoulder at Arbor, then back at you, "He knows. We can be cool, Haddy." Then she raises an eyebrow, making sure you are cool. Are you?
I've got a drink, but I'm not drinking drinking. Gotta stay sharp. When the Soulja Boys come in, I miss Rossi even more. She was good luck for me way back then. Last time I saw her... I dunno. I take another pull at my drink, take a looksee at the table where it happened. The three dudes there seem to be doing okay, lots of hand motions, pointing at notes. I keep hoping I'll just turn around and see Seatbelt. I wonder if someone got to him already?
Dagnabbit, I don't want my mom mad at me, or worse yet, think I can't do this. Because Hadden.
I've indeed got my head above ground for right now with the jingle, but damn, Tindy. What the fuck did Merrell find down there? I'm just looking at her, somewhat appreciatively, remembering how she looks when she dances and thinking how to bring up getting Jester some work down by her, then she mentions Arbor. I keep the surprise off my face, but barely. I think she missed it, but I keep cool enough everyone else will miss it.
"Truth is, I haven't seen him in going on a month now. I'm only barely sure that he survived the Greasefire. He may be gone to ground somewhere, licking wounds. You heard one of Poke died of a shotgun infection? Gonna be hard for the rest of us need medicos." I lower my voice, lean in, tiny nod to the Souldja Boys. "Don't say his name too much- they're look looking for him, intense and committed."
I look at her, watching her eyes, the little tension in her jaw. Is she worried about me? How much does she know about what Merrell found? I look over Arbor- what about what he knows?
(Rolled: 2d6+1. Rolls: 6, 2. Total: 9)
Yes, Tindy is concerned about you. She reaches over to touch your hand, the one with the drink you're not drink drinking. She glances over at the Soulja Boys when you mention Molotov is being hunted. "Haddy. Why don't you come back home. We can talk to Mimsy and him together.... well, not together together, but I'd back your play." She traces fingertips along the back of your hand, "Besides... I miss you."
What to be on the lookout for?
The Soulja Boys are tired of "hunting" for a ghost. Arbor and CTO could handle them, most likely. That boy toy, named Smokin. That's your danger.
What's the last thing you said to Smokin?
Why doesn't Smokin work for Roxy anymore?
What's the beef between Smokin' and Handplant anyways?
Fuckballs.
This is Smokin, by the by:
"Bitch, I am not going to hire you on. You're bad for business." After Roxy and I parted ways, I put out word for crew and Smokin wanted in. No way I could have him on the menu. He's cute, though. Maybe with a gun to his head, just in case... but not my style. Handcuffs, maybe. I didn't trust him. Don't.
That punk ass ribripper is somewhat of a con artist and black widow, or is he a bluebeard? Blue widow? Anyway, a few too many of Roxy's johns got shorted or robbed or sliced or worse- she can't abide for that on her doorstep. I always figured someone would have gotten revenge on his ass (or neck, or whatever) by now. Looks like he's trying to run away from his reputation if he's this far north.
I remember Handplant caught Smokin doing some plotted scale thievery, maybe something with K2 and Silica, and she got him blackballed from Market for a month. You know how hard it is to eat if you can't buy food?
I indicate Smokin with my eyes to CTO, like no really.
Mmm, that Tindy. I am tempted. Haven't heard from Lemma, haven't heard from Squirrel. Maybe I should just go myself.
Choosing words,"Tindy, I know my man's not ultimately responsible for the Collapse." I look to Arbor, still making like I'm speaking to her. "I just need some proof he was set up. I can't bring it to mom without proof." I look down to the little chemical heater around my cup, slosh it a bit musically, sip some. It feels coarse, with some spicysweet something in it. "How is she doing, with everything, really?"
I make sure my jacket is unzipped in case I need to pull. With the Soulja Boys and Smokin both here, who knows what will go down.
Arbor nods when you look to him. But it seems he's playing this as a side thing, doesn't want Tindy in on it. Are you going to honor that?
"I don't give two shits for Molotov T Gunlugger, Haddy." Tindy says as she strokes your hand. "I want you to come home. We both do. Mimsy's starting to suspect him, but he's there, filling her head with lies and you... you're gone. Sure, the serpent's tongue tickles her ears. But it makes sounds that you don't."
She pouts for a second, her luscious bottom lip sticking out slightly. "What proof do you need? Somebody's word? A candlestick inna library?" You feel her foot gently glide against your shin.
If Arbor wants on the QT, then I'll oblige. I need anything I can take.
Yeah, I do give a shit about Molotov. But also for crazy old Newton and old Mill. I would've probably even see Kettle by Squirrel's except Collapse. I finish my drink, feel the weight of the cup in my hand, regard it. Tindy probably can guess all the people weighing my heart.
I feel her trying to work me, and I'm not opposed, but is it manipulation if you want to do the thing anyway? Fuck, I haven't even told mom what I know, and if he's working her, what's he doing to Slash, or even to Lashfight? There's even cousins I haven't met yet liable poisoned against me. I press the warm cup against my temple for a beat, close my eyes.
"How'd you two get dirtside? I got to let the crew know I'm going Underlake. CTO, have you been down under?" I can get some work for Jester, raise some extra scratch, Oakley can handle the deliveries... Tying up loose ends.
I open my eyes when I feel her foot on mine and wonder who else sees that, just in time to catch her lip move, which doesn't distract nearly as much as I'd like. "Proof enough for mom, incontrovertible for all of Underlake. A signed confession would be lovely." There's a wan smile there. I'm definitely not that lucky these days.
I resist ordering another drink.
Arbor answers the q&a on travel gruffly, "We went out on the ice, then around..."
Tindy interrupts him, adding, "That kid Nose is the new overlake guide. Pretty sharp."
You ask CTO about Underlake and he nods, like "who hasn't?"
When you react to her foot on you, Tindy grins wickedly for a flash, then covers it with, "Mimsy's in deep with him, you know. She's been ignoring what's obvious for years. I think you'll need one of his to speak out. Or, yeah, signed confession, him admitting it, that kind of hand's-red kinda thing." She glances over at the Soulja Boys nervously, then away.
Tindy slips her foot higher, up your calf, to the inside of your knee. She's trying to look all serious, but you catch that naughty look in her eyes.
As for who can see? Nobody has a good vantage point that you can tell. Other than Arbor, and he's pointedly not looking.
Not sure which Nose she means. There's a whole passel of the Nose clan. Poor little Nosegrab... I set down my cup.
She succeeds in getting a hint of that old sparkle back in my eye. "Okay. Can't take my truck. Too obvious. How soon you two heading back?" Thing is I want to talk to Tindy and Arbor both private. Looking not to happen this go. I hope that dandy went to one of the booths with Smokin so I can duck the Soulja Boys and GTFO.
"I'm leaving as soon as we're done. Just came here. For you." Tindy adds the last bit with a wink.
"Nose-pick is hanging out waiting for us." Arbor finishes, sort of getting annoyed at Tindy's open flirting.
You see the dandy leaving with your "boy" Smokin. Smokin catches your eye on the way out, throws you a wave. He has a smart aleck smirk that tells you he's up to no good.
"Hey!" somebody calls as soon as Smokin's left. It's one of the Soulja Boys. His name is Privates. He's looking right at your table. "Which one o' you is Hadden?"
Tindy freezes. Arbor grunts unhappily. CTO sucks his teeth, like maybe he thinks this is gonna be awesome.
What do you do?
"I am." I look up, steady. I move my leg and hand clear of Tindy. I try to keep the layout and everyone's positions solid.
"Lootenant wants to see you," Privates says, all matter-of-fact, like he's assuming you're coming along.
CTO has a hand under the table, it's on a weapon, you know. The one in the back, Semen, he's got a hand on his pistol. He suspects this might not go as well as Privates expects.
Tindy stands slowly, slips behind Arbor a bit, saying, "I'm Tindy of Underlake. Merrell's wife. If you fellas want Hadden, he's Underlake, too. We can set up a meet with Lootenant, no worries. But he aint going with you."
Privates sneers, "What if I ask real fucking nicely?" He glares at Tindy and her resolve is faltering.
What do you do?
"Yeah, I got a message for Lootenant, too. Obviously I don't have a generator in my pocket. And obviously you lot haven't found it yet. So this goes down in one of two ways: you four get a round on me then all go back to Lootenant and tell him the truth, that we're off to Underlake to track down Seatbelt's ass and Molotov's head." I scratch my ear, out my hands back on the table.
"Or one of you gets to go back and tell the story of how CTO put a crossbow bolt in your nutsack." This is matter-of-factly, like who wants to lose their nuts? I've seen CTO's work, I know he's ready for some action.
Real nicely: "What's your poison?"
(Rolled: 2d6-1. Rolls: 5, 4. Total: 8)
It feels like Privates is going to push the issue. He eyes CTO, and CTO gives him a tight grin, a challenge. But Semen puts a hand on Privates' shoulder, "Hey, Pea. Be cool. No need to get all of Underlake pissed." Semen looks to Tindy, "Tonight. You bring him to the Field tonight to chat with the Genral." It isn't a question.
Tindy looks over to you, you can tell she's hoping you'll say yes.
What do you do?
I nod, once. "I'll be there after sundown." I'll signal to the bartender to give 'em a round. Maybe they'll actually listen.
"Let's all be cool. We both want that generator returned."
I look at my group like, let's GTFO.
Privates looks at you, then Tindy. It feels like he's going to push his luck, up the ante, something. CTO tenses, Arbor lowers his chin, like he's some bull about to charge.
"Back off, alright?" Tindy says, her voice cutting the tension. "You got my word and my husband's riding on it. Haddy'll be there, even if we drag his unconscious ass there."
And with your threats and her word, that's enough. Brick starts serving them up, and Semen pulls Privates over, and like that, you're free to go. At least, it seems like it.
CTO grunts his displeasure at "missing out", but like normal, he shrugs it off and falls in line behind you.
Tindy snickers in relief as you open the doors to outside. "Holyshit, that was a rush, yeah?"
Yeah, GTFO. I sidelong look at CTO like next time, fight another day.
"I hate being on the hook to those guys. I said I'd deliver. Fucking Seatbelt making me look bad. I need to bring something tonight or else. Don't think I can talk me way out of the Field." This is half to myself, half to the others. Zero to the Soulja Boys.
Not going to thank Arbor & CTO here, but I look at them and nod like I appreciate.
Outside: "Clock just got wound up. Let's go."
CTO gives you a "no biggie" kind of response with his nod. Arbor just glares a bit, like you still owe him and that's why he backed you this time.
Tindy slips an arm in between yours and your side. "Looks like we stuck together until I haul your ass to the Field tonight, babe." She grins, like that was part of her plan all along. "Where to? What on your To Do's needs doing first?"
We're outside Red Brick Road, and there's the damn Bean, all iced over:
It's pretty, crazy, and sad, somehow. Some dude imagined this, and made it, and here it still stands. When you walk under it, there's an extra weird inverted spot in the bottom on purpose, all the reflections warped and bent around themselves.
It's a good place for a think or a quiet talk or sometimes a date. I remember showing Rossi the place.
I'm a little surprised Tindy's letting the physicality show out and about, but. The sharp cold wind in my nose and the sight of the Bean help me focus. "I'll get Chicane or one of the other runners to leave word at Backside Misty's for my crew, so they know what the what. After Underlake, I'll meet by Roxy's and maybe catch up to the Sparekeys. Before that, it's all about Seatbelt, which means I need to talk to Squirrel." I start walking to the Bean.
"CTO, mind keeping an eye on Tindy and environs for a few?" It's not a bad job, eyeing Tindy. I nod my chin over at the Bean, hands still in pockets. "Arbor, let's just you and me talk."
For all the closeness, Tindy keeps it chaste, a pretend of familial closeness, not a lover. You realize she really stuck her neck out for you back there. Is that a first for her? What do you think her angle is?
CTO nods his assent, and walks away with Tindy, who leaves you to her big escort. Bit Arbor walks with you, looking down and scowling. He keeps quiet until the Bean. Once you're in that undercrawl, where he has to stoop a bit, he asks, "What is it, Hadden?"
She's really a skilled actress and I know it. That's why she's been able to cover me in the past. I think she does it partly for the thrill and partly for mom. They are close. Were close, even before. And she cares for me, for what happens to me. And likewise, a bit, I don't want her to fall to Merrell on my account.
But here, with Arbor. "I owe you for K2. I'm going to do right by you, never doubt that." I look up to our twisted reflections above us. I look back to Arbor, candid. "I gotta ask. Do you know what Merrell found? And is there anything you wanna say elsewise, just us?" I don't know enough about him. Going to need to know more.
Arbor glares down at you, through you. He ignores your reflections and looks only at you. "K2 was a trifle. Just a stupid kid thing."
He scowls for a long moment. Then, "None of this comes down on me. Give me your word."
"To you, a trifle. To me, Merrell don't cut off her hands for thievery."
I think for a sec, put my hand out. "I want Merrell to go down. Unless you tell me that you're behind the whole thing, you're clean. My word."
Arbor nods when you reaffirm the worth of his help for K2. Then you lay out your target, give your word. "Merr's got his whole gang, Hadden. Your crew aint built for hitting, and your hitter is AWOL. I'll tell you this. He did bad wrong, but he's still in control."
He puts a finger in your face, not angry, just making sure the point is driven home, "The minute I think you can lay down an accusation and Underlake survives it, I will roll on that bastard. But his crew is fifteen hard men with much jingle and guns. A weakass sin laid at his door would only get you, your crew, Mimsy, even Tindy, and of course me, swinging and left for the birds."
He steps back, out of your face, still watching you. Then asks, "You get me?"
Fifteen? He's gotten bigger. "I get you better than you think. I've known him a long long time. If you think forty-two dead civilians is a weakass sin, what happens when he aims big?" I let that sink in.
"Maybe I can better my odds, if others see like you. What about Noseblunt? He knew my dad. Or old Hill's kid, Omatic?" And I fix him with a serious gaze, a plan's starting to form. "Importantly, if I come in with a couple squads of hitters, is there anyone else needs to live on your say-so?"
This is Arbor, except in a solid parka with fur, by the way:
Arbor looks out to CTO and Tindy for a few breaths, thinking. "Hard to say right now, things are fluid. Anyone who looks like they want out is on Merr's short list, and get dead. You build your side, and I'll put out feelers on who would side. Noseblunt and Omatic... probably."
He pauses for a moment, the scowl drops and you see him without the artifice of his bluster. "I didn't know until after. I don't fucking abide this, but I'm not going to move until I know Underlake can handle it. Get me?"
I really feel akindred right now. Looking at him, some of my weary years of putting up with Merrell showing through, Arbor may realize just how many pegs he just went up in my book. "We're of the same mind. Don't risk your ass, but I gotta know who needs whitelisting."
We share a moment, but just a moment. Time's slipping.
"Who all knows what he found down there?" I don't want to reveal Lemma's involvement just yet... I hope she's okay, but it must be primo interesting. Marmot didn't seem worried.
"The gang knows," Arbor replies, obviously not liking it. "He needed that many to haul the shit out. Told them he discovered it searching for bodies." He laughs a scoffing laugh, "That's how we grew so fast."
Whoa. "The whole entire gang to haul the shit? Jesusfuck, it is another cruise ship?"
"Better." Arbor says. And he means it. " We stripped clean an entire fucking underwater ship. Guns, food, gizmos, you name it. All of it was inside when the Big Freeze came. All of it was pris-fucking-tene."
He nods, "Enough to fuck with Kemper. Enough to take over Chi-Town." He looks over to Tindy, who seems restless, but he continues, like holding this in is killing him. "Merr's trying to build an army on the sly. And he's got enough jingle to do it."
"Holy living fuck." I lean my head back against the cold Bean, for support. Bigger than Kemper? I'm reeling, imagining the kind of hell Merrell would bring to Chi-Town if he could. It's almost too big to imagine- but that bastard would do it.
"Arbor, I gotta stop him." I catch wind of Tindy's skittishness, and it is time to go, even though we've only talked for a couple minutes. I give Arbor a look like, I don't know what, grateful? worried? indebted?
Time to move: Squirrel first and hopefully Seatbelt, then Roxy's and the Sparekeys, then the Soulja Boys. Plus mom and Merrell in there somewhere, maybe Lemma... small wonder she's been occupado with a find. I need some coffee and food for this day, and I'm really glad I didn't have more than one drink.
Arbor shrugs a "Underlake stick together" shrug. You and Arbor head back to catch up with Tindy and CTO.
Let's skip to you meeting up with Nose-pick out on the ice.
Nose-pick is there, all by himself. You work your way from the shore to the lake and meet up with him. He gives you a guy nod of hello, then starts leading you back. You notice One-Footed isn't with him. Those two are thick as thieves. Maybe she's working with Silica on something.
Yeah, this is why I got a minitruck. The walk kinda sucks for big deliveries. Wait a second, how is Merrell moving all that boat shit, anyway? Big deliveries would be noticed. Maybe it's just stashed somewhere. Somewhere I can get to it. Fuck, I might have to work with Stink Bug's crew to get that gennie back. "How goes, Brother Rat? Are Silica and Sister Rat back at Squirrel's?" I haven't heard from Silica lately, either. Hope she's okay. Maybe she'll actually talk to me if Rossi's not around.
"How's Silica doing, anyway?"
Nose-pick looks at you, and you can tell right at that moment, something bad's happened. He looks away, answers in a pained voice, "Footie's dead, Hadden. A couple of Stink Bug's assholes shot her. Fucked up Squirrel, too. Silica killed one of them... she's okay, but she left with some masked guy." He swallows, glances back at you.
Tindy knew. Arbor, too.
Oh, shit. Shit. The news stops me in my tracks.
I quick look back at Tindy and Arbor, like why teh fuck keep me in the dark about that? Then to Nose-pick, "I'm sorry, Brother Rat. I didn't know." I'll put a hand on his shoulder, squeeze. More contact if it's accepted.
Aw, fuck, Squirrel? And then Silica killed one of Stink Bug's dudes? And that masked motherfucker showed up again? The confusion chases grief and anger across my face, plain.
"What needs to be done?" He knows I mean for ceremony and for revenge... maybe for rescue, if it comes to that.
Yeah, he doesn't flinch away from a hug. He's pretty torn up about it. He answers, "I kissed her eyes and left her for the sky already. Squirrel's doing better, but his face is fucked. As for..." He looks away, not finishing the sentence.
"As for payback," Tindy butts in. "We paid Dice a bit to put the hurt on them. Nose here described the one who got away, and Mimsy is fronting the hit."
It's rough. Poor kid. I can help spot the walk back, it's a little different on foot, but the track is basically the same route. I'm glad she got sent skyward. But damn, Squirrel. "Why did Stink Bug's mooks come gunning for Squirrel and Sister Rat?"
That asshat again, even if he is in the business of saving Silica's ass. "That masked motherfucker got everyone hunting for him. You hear he killed half of Poke?"
Nose-Pick is quiet, letting you lead sometimes, sometimes moving ahead. He doesn't really want to talk about it. But he answers, "They thought Squirrel knew about the Soulja Boys' gennie. Whipped him a few times. Then..." His voice breaks, but he keeps going, like this is a ulogy, "Footie... she tried to stop them. And that fucker shot her! He fucking shot her dead. And Silica, she stabbed him right in the fucking neck."
Arbor is the one who answers you about Samaritan. "That masked fucker is trouble all round. Swings his dick like it's ten inches long. He'll get it chopped off soon enough. He's just lucky he aint hurt Underlake, or we'd take him out ourselves."
Tindy rolls her eyes at Arbor's "hard talk", but he doesn't see.
The trip to Underlake isn't that long right? Tunnels just up ahead.
I let it drop. But I give him a look like, I'm here. I should pay my respects somehow, before I leave. Shit, if Squirrel didn't give up Seatbelt and Sister Rat fucking died for it, I don't even know what. He's gotta be able to tell me something. I can't be still chasing ghosts. And Silica zilched the guy, that's still a little wowza. Seems out of character, shit must've gotten deep back there.
I drop it about that masked motherfucker, too. Dude's got poor impulse control.
It was only a couple weeks I've been gone. Seems like ages. This tunnel visit gonna be different. "I gotta see Squirrel."
Let's skip ahead to that then, shall we?
----------------
The lot of you come into the mines. Tindy sticks around, which means Arbor does, too, unless you convince him Tindy is safe with you and CTO, your call.
Squirrel's tunes precede him. You hear this echoing down the windy passages before you reach his nexus point:
And, just like always, Squirrel is there. He's got a new pair of Rats, both boys, just a bit younger than Nose-Pick. Rail thin, almost gaunt. They are carefully cleaning fish, moving them from one bucket to another. Their movements are slow, which would normally have Squirrel berating them. But not today, for some reason.
There's Squirrel. Seated this time, when he almost always paces around. He's got a huge white bandage on one cheek, taped on by his own hand. He sees your five come in, gives you a smile. At least, he starts a smile, but then his cheek disagrees with it, he winces and gives you a nod.
No, I would want Arbor around for eyes and appearances.
Pisses me off to see Squirrel down like this. I nod to the Brothers Rat, go straight to my boy. I'm down almost on one knee, at his eye level.
"Dude."
There's a world of conversation in that word. Like, brother, where does it hurt and how can we get them; whatcha need and you know why I'm here. I'm totally gonna throw in for that hit. I'm angry and and kicking myself I didn't get out here sooner. On both ends, either end.
Squirrel gives you a tight nod. "Handled." Then, his posture changes, and he pushes on the table to help himself stand. "I got some new fish to show you. C'mon." He wants to chat with you privately.
He starts walking towards the deep tunnels, calling over his shoulder, "Nose-pick, c'mere!" Nose picks up walking after you two.
What do you do?
I look back to the group, like wait here for me. Tindy may be not exactly gleeful to be hanging with in the mines, but. Might actually do her a good turn to see how the other half lives. "Cool, is it flounder or grouper?"
I will totally help him walk if needed or let him fly solo if pride demands.
Pride demands. He can walk, but he holds his shoulders back like his back really, really hurts. "Neither. Shark. Believe it or not."
You walk for maybe fifty yards, moving through side passages until you hit a hidden alcove and duck in. Squirrel reaches up to put a hand on your shoulder. "Noose is tightening, brother. I think Seatbelt is dead. Because he sure as fuck didn't leave us hanging like this."
"My head's already in the noose, brother. Already talked my way out of a firing squad twice. I'm meeting with Genral tonight, man, to-fucking-night. I've gotta give them something. I just wanted to sell them their generator back." I'm breathing hard through my nose, eyes wide. I run my hands through my hair, drop my voice. "Do you know where he was? Where it is?" Please say yes.
Squirrel gives you a wry look, "You think that asshole could store something like that on his own?" He looks over to Nose-Pick, head waves the kid to go. Nose gets it, heads out of the alcove. But you see it hurt him a bit, to be excluded.
"I can't go get it, Hadden." Squirrel explains quietly. "Once Stinky sent some fuckers, now I'm a target." He looks at you like he wants to ask you something, but he isn't sure.
What do you do?
I watch Nose-Pick, noting his mood. I nod at Squirrel like, go on.
"I'm a target in a different way. If I can deliver it, tell them the guy who stole it is dead, they'll have what they want... I still gotta deal with Molotov, but I still gotta deal with him anyway."
Real low low now, almost in his ear. "Planning to use some reward as barter for services. Against him." I give him a look like, nobody else knows this, I trust you, brother.
"My truck's back dirtside. How big is it, anyway?"
Squirrel listens in, and when you say "him", you can tell he knows who you mean. He nods, like selling it back is as good as whatever Seatbelt set up originally. "We hauled it out on a fucken dolly through the sewers. It'll fit on your truck, but you'll need some strongbacks. Which I aint got."
He whispers back, "It's under MOCAC, brother. East entrance, sub-basement." Then that's it. You know. The thing he was whipped for, that One-Footed died for, that almost a hundred Soulja Boys have roughed up all of Chi-Town for, you know where it is.
Relief.
I put my left hand on his shoulder, lean my forehead against his, close my eyes, let out a long breath I didn't know I'd been holding. This is totally doable. "That's just an hour drive down Lakeshore, brother." I think about the timing to sundown, counting backwards. Hour drive to Soldier's Field. Hour to load the thing and avoid trouble. Hour to MOCAC. Time enough to meet with mom. It's what, noonish? Can do. Can fucking do.
Looking at his sliced face, I got much respect for Squirrel right now. He didn't give it up to Stink Bug's thugs, and poor Sister Rat paid an ultimate price. I could kiss him. There's a way out of this trap, and I'm gonna do it. Because Hadden.
I wish I had Molotov, Rossi, and Oakley all three- we four could schlep, secure, and ship the thing and get out without shots fired.
Arbor and CTO are who I got now, but I think if there's anyone else I trust trust.
Squirrel nods, "I know, brother. But I've been stuck here for over a week. You wanna do the swap, if you think you can pull it off and live through it, then do it with my blessings."
I assume that's all you need, right? Anything more?
Fistbump. "My other option is to go up against the wall at sundown. I won't guarantee any jingle this late in the deal, but getting these fucks to lay off all of Chi-Town is worth something, right?"
One last thing before rolling, with a bit more sheepishness than usual for me. "In case this all goes really south... Dude, Nini's a no-go. I really stepped in it with her. But I haven't forgotten, brother. Go to Roxy's and put one on my tab if ya hard up."
I don't want to exclude Brother Rat, but he may not be up for this gig.
"It's worth something, yeah." Squirrel agrees. "But I sure as shit didn't do this as a public service."
You advise him about Nini and offer Roxy's. He shakes that off, "No problems, brother. If I need my wick dipped, I got it. I was looking for something long term. Just... keep an eye peeled."
"Oh sure, haven't you heard of the great philanthropist Squirrel? I'll have a statue made for you. You know I won't fuck you on profit. 90-10 is fair." He can tell I'm joking by the cheeseeating grin. But reality of business sets in. "I don't know what I'mma hafta shell out to protect my ass delivering the thing, or even if they'll honor their eight offer. So, no specific numbers. How's an even two-way split after expenses?"
I do not want to fuck over Squirrel. But I'm not in this as a public service, either. But I do want to get out of this with my skin intact, which is also worth something. Better to have this discussion up front, too. I won't push the deal and be satisfied like 60-40 in his favor. I figure a jingle per gun hand gonna eat into the payoff bigtime. And I don't know if the Genral will be feeling givey this night.
Once we settle on a split, I'll head back with him along the tunnels. Don't forget Brother Rat. Shit, I almost thought "and Sister Rat." She was so quiet. I still have Silica and that masked fucktard on my list to worry about, too.
Squirrel is evidently more than ready to be done with this. "Even up works. You're the one doing the meet. But if Seatbelt is actually alive, I want him to get 20. It was his plan in the first place."
Unless that's a problem, you settle on a split, spit and shake hands. The deal is done.
Now what do you do? Head to MOCAC, right? Take the group traveling with you now? IF you want Nose-pick along, Squirrel won't object to that. But the truck will get crowded.
We shake on it, do that forearm grab deal thing.
Yeah, I'm a sexist pig. I don't want Tindy along to Soldier's Field. Brother Rat is welcome if he knows he won't get made by the Soulja Boys- I don't have all the details of how it was stolen. CTO is on, of course and I trust Arbor. Gotta make sure I have enough tarps and shit for the drive.
I want to see mom, maybe the sibs before I go, and I don't want to run across Merrell. But I don't think the clock is on my side?
Let's skip ahead to meeting Mimsy. She's back at home, the home you grew up in, with several of your sibs. Merrell is out and about "with his crew".
When you came in, your Mimsy had a very sharp bone knife that she was using for carving soap that your kid sister Lashfight had cooked up. Lashfight was busy making some kind of collage, just a bit of decoration for the house. She's crafty like that.
Slash is sitting near the door, stitching and mending furs and coats. Busy work, but you can tell from his posture that he's keeping watch over the family. That, and the crossbow standing up against the wall right by him.
You enter. Tindy comes in behind you, with Arbor and CTO sticking around outside. Mimsy looks up from her work, and gives you a smile like it's a reflex. But then she shifts, puts the lye away and asks Tindy, not you, "What has he done about Molotov?"
Tindy answers, "Whoah, Mims. He's working hard and the outside aint loving on our own, if you recall. Talk to him yourself." Then, she points to herself, "Because Sweden."
Mimsy looks at you, gives you a withering stare, like excuses about the Soulja Boys won't cut it. Only payback for the forty-two will do.
What do you do?
That soap smell takes me back to when I was the one had to do it. Half chore, half skill, rendering down the fish oil over a time... I ruffle Lashfight's hair like dad used to do to me. She's a good kid, focused when she's doing her thing. I give Slash an approving dude-nod, that crossbow looks well-maintained. Of course I learned some sewing, too. Keeps the fingers nimble.
Great, looks like I'm due for the silent treatment instead of yelling. "Hi, mom." Never hug a woman with a knife. Even if she's your mom. "Molotov and the Sparekeys probably been hiding after the Greasefire. Turns out Roxy's with him these days. I got a meet with her after I pull my ass out the line of fire. Squirrel's, too."
I wait, not sure which road she'll take. With my luck these days, it'll be some fourth thing.
Your Mimsy listens to you, giving you her attention, not giving you any spite. She is disappointed, but she does love you.
"Ask him, Tindy, how long this generator problem will delay him from doing right by the forty-two?" Mimsy asks you, through Tindy.
Tindy doesn't insult anyone by repeating the question. She actually seems rather frustrated by this.
I bite my lip a little, averted. Her disappointment cuts. She knows.
"Mom, the dead will see their right without my wronging further the living." All of 'em. "If I don't solve this generator problem, they'd hunt me down first, then keep tearing apart Chi-Town." And eventually to Underlake. She knows.
I touch her hand lightly but with purpose, the one holding the knife. "And mom? I love you." She knows.
Your Mimsy turns to look at you, Her gaze isn't angry, but it's touched with worry. "Hadden... Underlake folk aren't worried about the Soulja Boys and their stupid generator. If they want to fuck with us, we'll blow the tunnels and let them rot." She places the knife on her lap, and reaches up to hold your wrist. "You're next in line, son. If you do right by the people. If not, then some sniveling shit like Smith will be hand-picked over you, with nobody to blink an eye. Because honor. Because Underlake."
Mimsy raises an eyebrow as if to ask, "Get me?"
Yeah, I get her. The words pull at me with their weight. I'm a little misty-eyed, but smiling a little too. She's good. "Smith is a real shit." I give her a big ol' hug, feel a little better. "I still got people dirtside I can't let swing if I don't show up. Because honor."
"Mom, I've got so much spinning right now. People depend on me, and I can juggle a lot, but those balls still gotta make it 'round... and they all kinda depend on the motion of each other." I bet Jester can juggle something fierce. I don't blame Rossi for wanting to be nailing him instead of nailing the Anti-Hadden League at Soulja Field.
Something makes me look at Lashfight. Slash knows this one, I bet."You know that old joke about how to eat a whale? One bite at a time?" Hope I get at least a small giggle. "Don't matter if you start at the head, tail, or side, you still gotta work your way to the middle. I got whales of problems, kiddo." I look over to Slash, then wick to his crossbow, then mom, and back to him. Real small smile and shoulder motion, like brothers, like dude, like we can't both not come back.
Your mother, your real mother, doesn't approve of the other folks you juggle, at least when it causes Underlake to suffer. You know this, and she won't bring it up again. Since it falls on deaf ears.
Lashfight snickers, she's easily amused by your jokes. Slash nods, like yeah, he knows. He's got the home front, Merrell or no.
Hey, curious. When you shared your concerns about how your father died and Merrell moved in with these two sibs... which one of them completely believes you, and which one is on the other side, thinks you're crazy?
I respect the hell out of my mom. It hurts... and Underlake suffers now, with Merrell. Maybe this problem would be better solved with a bullet. But I know that's not true- it might be an easier path, but not the right one. And that shit Smith - or someother flunky would just take me out. And crapcrapcrap crappity crap, I can't just deliver Molotov dead if Merrell's raising an army. If I brought Kemper in to Underlake, there'd be too many more innocents dead.
Slash knows. He's old enough to remember, to put pieces together, to be a threat. Lashfight's younger, and she's told me that she doesn't remember dad too much, just a few flashes here and there. She knows Merrell's not her real father, but the serpent indeed has a tongue. She's also part of the reason I must prove Merrell did it. If he just got zilched, she might hate me for it...
Fuck.
The silence has stretched on probably too long, lots of meaningful looks being passed.
Kinda wish I kept some poison handy.
"I'm coming back, mom. Because family."
Mimsy nods. "You better. If I find our you got clipped running around with Chi-Town regulars, I'll hunt down your ghost and stick you in a candle." It's an empty threat, based on an Underlake legend. In her own way, she's telling you to be careful.
Tindy walks out with you, saying, "Haddy, need to rap with you about some up-top bidness." She kisses Mimsy goodbye, Lashfight, too, playfully punches Slash's arm, then catches up to you.
Once you're out of their range, she slides an arm into yours, "I lied, Haddy. Don't have any uptop stuff. It's just... if you're going into danger, I want you to be, you know, inspired and shit." She grins wickedly, "Wanna blowjob, baby?"
What do you do?
Mmm, that Tindy.
My smile is there, but restrained. "Any other day, I'd be down for some road head like you wouldn't believe." I could really use a good blowjob, too. It's about a half hour drive, but you can make it last an hour, can you dig it? No way in the truck with Arbor, CTO, and Brother Rat riding shotgun, plus a gennie... as amusing as that might seem.
"But tick tick tick, my dear- the clock waits for no man. I fear you'd charm me 'twixt the sheets for hours." I squeeze her hand like a promise, whisper in her ear. "You can do that a different night."
Tindy stops you, grabbing hold of your shirt to make sure you know she wants you to look at her. "Haddy... don't stick your neck out too far, okay? I like it where it is, keeping your pretty head on." She goes up on tippy toes to kiss you, lightly, her hand snaking around your neck to keep you from escaping.
"And... you're an asshole for not taking me along." She says it sharply, not hurt, just resigned and annoyed. But you know you don't have to give reasons, or talk her into it. She gets it, she just wants to be there, too.
CTO hovers nearby, coming into your line of sight, like a reminder of all the things to juggle.
What do you do?
I fall into the kiss. She's a good kisser. She knows it. We fit well together. "I feel like I've been trying to pull back my neck for weeks."
I'd rather her annoyed than hurt, or worse. "I know I'm an asshole for it. I just have a bad feeling about bringing along your cute ass into this. Mom would kill me three times with a stake if I would come back without you... and then think what he would do." Hundred angry Soulja Boys and a hot piece of ass? Not on my watch. Starts to piss me off, but I reel it in. Go in angry, might make mistakes.
"Yo, CTO, we good to go?" I crack my knuckles.
CTO nods, he's ready. More than ready. Tindy smacks your ass on the way out.
Then you're on the way back to the truck, right? Makes sense that you five drove to somewhere near the Pier then walked to Underlake from there, right? So that's where you return to get the truck.
Handplant is there, sitting in the driver's seat, reading a paperback novel. She's alone.
What do you do?
I tell CTO, Arbor, and Brother Rat to hunker down in the bed. There's plenty blankets, plus the bigass tarp. I really gotta look into better passenger accommodations. Maybe Lemma can rig up a lectric blanket to run off the engine? If anyone remembered to bring a hot-water bottle, I can rewarm off the heater and pass it back. There's no in-flight movie.
Lots of feels when I see Handplant. Always happy to see her, she's good people. A little worried about her and her woman. Not as worried about her going to Soldier's Field, but she's a badass. Obviously no K2, which is good and bad for a whole fuckton of reasons. I hop in shotgun, slide the glass closed. "Want to talk about it now or later, Handplant?" What's she reading?
I hope I don't deserve whatever she tells me.
The men hop in the back, pull a tarp and blankets over and huddle down to avoid the wind. Arbor raps on the side and nods, ready to go.
Handplant starts up the truck as they're doing this, putting her tattered novel up on the small dashboard. It's cover is white, with multi-colored pills on top and says Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann. "What's to talk about, Hadden?" Her lips are tight, she's under control, professional, ready to work. Upset. Hiding it well, but you know her.
I look out the window, watching the snowfall, the sky. I'm hoping to see a bit of the auroras up in the clouds between the buildings. I'd take almost any good omen about now.
"Everything that's upsetting you, maybe? I somehow doubt it's the book." This crazy-ass plan, K2, her love life, Molotov, dead Poke, Merrell's army... "If you want me to go first, I got a long-ass list of things that been upsetting me, and we got some driving to do this night."
Shit, Handplant. We're friends, right? I worry about her sitch, I value her opinion, I like her, she's a kick-ass go-getter, and is wicked good with a knife. Especially if there's something more than just me and K2 she's thinking on. If she looks, she'll see my concern.
Handplant looks over at you, pauses when she sees the concern, turns back to driving. She relaxes a little, the tension in her neck seems to ease. "You first, Hadden."
Deep breath.
"Where to begin, girl? I feel like I'm fucking up and people don't need me. Molotov has been blowing me off for weeks, then come to find out he killed Carnation and took over the gang. That means Never Summer is working for him. Then I find out that Molotov's with Roxy. Like work and with with. So that's a whole bunch of emotional shit right there.
Lemma's been busy with some new project, I don't blame her for the newness in her life. It's a pretty amazing thing. I miss talking to her, though. Right as we started to patch up the old thing.
Squirrel got whipped to an inch of his life. He might have a wicked cool scar on his face. Looks like he's gonna keep the eye. But I feel a bit responsible- Like if if would've stepped in sooner, it wouldn't've happened.
And Sister Rat died over this thing.
And Poke died. Half of Poke. I can't even imagine what that does to a person, losing a sib, much less Poke. Seems like this masked motherfucker is a deathbringer in a bad way. Shit.
With bidness, I stepped in it like at least three times in a row- I didn't get Backside Misty to go for an actual partnership to improve the flats. Palmer's squeezed too much by Dice, so he couldn't afford a go-between. I tried to set Nini up with Squirrel and got laughter and tears both. So there's that, like maybe I'm losing my touch.
I'm worried about walking into the fucking nest of the fucking Soulja Boys with this stupid fucking generator of theirs. It took too long, and they're too riled up. I just wanna get paid and have them back the fuck off the whole of Chi-Town. I got a crazy plan about that, too. See how it works out., I can barely voice it to myself.
I saw some really weird aurora shit couple times. I don't know what it means and I don't know if people think I'm cray cray.
And Silica, I don't even know what's going on in there. I thought I felt something with her, between us, you saw it. But I can't get a straight answer out of her. A friend gave me some insight, so that helps.
I ran into Rossi, did you hear? She's got a new squeeze, so no Hadden ass-saving or sexytimes because wounds and because Jester. I'm glad to have CTO, make no mistake, but it's just another rejection on my shoulders.
Mom's mad at me, too. About the Collapse. Not mad, but disappoint. Even if Molotov T. Gunlugger 'twere right here, I can't just bullet him because.... because more death won't bring justice to they who needs it. There's a whole kettle of shit I gotta sift for back home, and I need some real hitters to pull it off.
I think K2 may indeed be twitterpated. I like her, Handplant. I want to do right by you and she. But she's young and I know I'm just a stepping stone in her life. A mighty sexy and awesome stepping stone, mind you. So's I don't blame her.
I think Oakley's okay by me. At least I haven't picked up on anything weird by him.
I'm a little worried about you and your woman; It's like we don't talk any more. If yall are having real troubles, I would want you to come to me, have some tea or beer or weed or something."
I take a big gulp of water from the canteen, let it slide down. Slouch a little, not really on purpose.
"I've had some real real dark thoughts lately, Handplant. All these failures right in a row grind a soul down. I really hope I'm not trying to shuffle it, like subconsciously."
Handplant drives, gives you an occasional glance over, and a "mn hmn" when appropriate. It's genuine, she's listening. She gives a shit, which I'm sure is a comfort. As you're spilling your guts, outside, you see outside the window a set of matched buildings that look like this:
Handplant drives you straight over what was once neatly trimmed lawns on this campus, now one of the few places where no cars are frozen solid. You finish up on the other side of the campus, as Handplant pulls left on East Chicago, coming the long way south of MOCAC.
"Hadden, you've had a string of bad luck, maybe one or two bad calls mixed in." Handplant says calmly. "But you're not duffing it on purpose. Don't fret that." She looks over at you, "K2 is completely struck, Hadden. And I'm not angry at you, or her. But I see the road ahead, and it won't be pretty. You aren't what she wants, and you shouldn't pretend to be."
She pulls up over the curb to get close the right spot, minimizing your efforts. "And thanks for asking after Hitec. She's fine. She's tougher than I am, Hadden, you know that. We're fine. She's... less understanding about you and K2, which is a whole load of bullshit I don't want to drag out here. But trust me, me and her, we're okay."
She stops, throws the truck into park, looks over. "You wanna go save the city?"
Handplant. She's good people. I definitely listen to her. Gotta talk to K2 at some point, clear the air. Also must remember to make nice to Hitec next time I see her.
I hold up for a fistbump. "All of us heroes, you betcha. Home for supper, right?"
Before I open the door, I give her a look. "And don't think you're getting out of spilling your heart to me, sugar lips." I will totally accept and deserve a good-spirited punch in the shoulder. But I wonder what's really upsetting her. Last time, it was Silica.
I'll hop out the truck, looking around to see what the what.
Handplant returns the fist bump, gives you a flash of a smile of camaraderie. "The moment I come blubbering to you about my woman troubles is the moment you got me blistering drunk, Hadden. On your dole." She huffs a laugh, doesn't punch you, then hops out of the truck.
The guys are already piling out, stretching a bit, and waiting for you to lead them to the gennie.
I would totally cover the tab to get blistering drunk with Handplant. It would be epic.
But, game face on. I secure the truck with the dingus under the hood, get one last hopeful peek at the sky, check for anything else going on nearby, and lead the crew into MOCAC.
You and your crew hump it to the east entrance. CTO shoulder bumps open a door that wasn't locked, just frozen closed. Handplant shines a flahlight ahead as you take a set of stairs down to the sub-basement.
After some looking about in the frigid place, you find the storage room marked with Squirrel's sigil, open the door... and it's empty.
"What... the fuck?" Arbor says low, quiet and annoyed.
What do you do?
Fuckballs.
I blink hard, just in case I'm seeing things. Or not seeing things. Whatever. "Fuck fuck fuck fuckity fuck fuck mcfuckerson."
Still staring at the spot, I sidelong ask, level-headed, "Brother Rat, we in the right spot? Tell me this is a diversion or maskirova or something." Are there any clues or tracks or signs or a fucking ransom note? Maybe there's a different storage room.
Nose-pick looks over, shakes his head, "This is where Squirrel told us. His mark outside... it's gone."
Arbor punches the door in frustration. CTO starts looking about like there might be a trap or something, but nothing.
Handplant offers calmly, "If the Soulja Boys found it, then at least they'll settle the fuck down."
"Yeah, that would be just dandy, Handplant. What are the odds with my luck, right?" I'll give a token look around in case there's something CTO missed.
"Brother Rat, anybody else knew it was here? Not likely someone just stumbled across it." I can't avoid a meet with Genral. I need something. Hiding's not an option.
Nose-pick answers quick, "Just Squirrel and Seatbelt. And, uhm, that asshole Beef Carpaccio."
Arbor grumbles, "For shit's sake, this is a waste!"
I nod at Arbor like yeah thanks, I know. Way to help, big guy.
"Beef Carpaccio? Where's he stay?" I look to CTO like I bet you can get an answer from that asshole.
How's the clock?
CTO shrugs, like Beef aint one o' mine, but Handplant answers, "He drinks at Monarch's. Fucker always makes a pass at me. Thinks he can bring me back. heh. Fat chance."
Arbor grunts, "Let's fucken go, then."
You've lost about an hour. Time's short.
Oh, I already don't like this guy. "Shit, Monarch's is right over there. Let's roll." I really want to slam the door from frustration, hear that nice loud booming sound, crack some ice, but I don't want the crew to see me lose my shit. Handplant knows me though, she can tell.
A bad idea strikes me, I don't like it. "Handplant, think you could fake lure him out with your charms them? Might be faster than me trying or a fight." I need answers and time moves ever onwards.
You're all walking back out of the sub-basement when you throw that her way. Even in the dim light of the flashlight, you see that Handplant gives you a withering stare, "You want me. To go tell that fuckwit I've changed teams?"
She glares at you for a few steps, right up to the stairs. "I want a fucking trout for this, Hadden. Butter. Wine. All the fixings."
Is she seriously? The look on my face is comical. "This guy can't be that stupid, can he?" Can he? I owe her so much already. Hitec wouldn't forgive me, and what would K2 think? I gotta get them some wine.
"Forget it. Bad plan. CTO, you wanna bring him out?" I glance at Arbor like, no disrespect.
You're all coming up to ground level when you ask CTO. Handplant raises a hand, "He is that stupid, Hadden. It's... a better plan than fighting your way into Dice's favorite bar. Just... don't even tell anyone."
She starts walking briskly to the truck. The others follow, hopping in the back. When you get in the passenger side, close the door, Handplant says, "You have any idea how long it's been... since I've flirted? With anybody? ...forever."
I'm guilty of thinking with my dick as much as the next guy, but wow. I kind of shake my head at the infinite power of human stupidity.
"Okay. Brother Rat, you can drive, right? When we get to Monarch's, you're on point, ready to drive. Handplant will go in, do her magic, bring out the rube. We'll have a little conversation with him in the truck bed while you're truckin' down Lakeshore. We'll bungee down first, and nobody — nobody — falls out without my say-so."
I look at CTO, and Arbor too. "If shit goes down, we need him ready to talk, savvy?"
Once we're in the truck, "Tell you what- I'll skip the juicy details and won't tell anyone that you came to me for flirting advice." I kind of laugh a little, to myself. "It's easy for guys. Just say you want to make them come in some new or interesting way and you're in. Er, so to speak."
I close my eyes, stretch my neck a little, turn to her - this is going to be weird - and give her some bedroom eyes and a little bit of the voice. "Hey, there Beef. My woman and I got to feeling a little lonely and I thought of your offers. Want to come over, join both of us for a couple hours of fun?" I drop the act quicklike, roll my eyes. "Is he really this dumb?"
Sure, I've thought about fucking Handplant and Hitec both, but not seriously. Because Handplant. Also, she'd have my guts for garters.
Handplant has to slow down to stay on the road because she can't stop watching your little act. She giggles when you drop it, and her face lights up with a natural smile. "He's pretty dumb, yeah." She glances in the rearview, "My hair... fuck. I can't remember the last time I fixed it. Hitec's always..." she looks back over at you, "Doesn't matter."
The truck speeds up a bit as Handplant takes it to the boat dock, then down onto the ice. Within a few minutes, you're coming up to Monarch's. Handplant parks near the four snowmobiles near the west side of the boat. Some of the Skegs are here.
What do you do?
I roll my eyes so she can see. "Butter, wine, and high-end professional-grade conditioner. Got it." I think I may actually have some hair product back in a stash. She's got a nice smile, I don't see it often enough. Hitec's a lucky woman.
And now... fuck, Skegs? I check the sky, the time. I nod at the sleds. "Handplant, watch your ass. I hear Dice is pretty choppy these days. Rossi told me he cut off her dude's toes. You want me for backup inside?"
Handplant does a bit of a double take. "Wait... Jester is with Rossi? And uh, Rossi likes boys?" She frowns, "Well, shit. Hitec and K2 were both right."
She does a little bit of an impromptu booty shake as she heads to Monarchs, "You can watch my ass, Hadden." Then she chuckles a little and tries to work on "walking like a girl" until she gets to the ladder up.
Nose-pick slides around to take the wheel. Arbor asks, "You want us to hide out or somethin?"