LoK: Rise of the Equalists

zutara21
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 8:08:47 GMT -6

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Post by zutara21 on Jun 7, 2012 8:08:47 GMT -6

OOC: YAY!

-----

The overwhelming scent of vomit and liquor permeated her nose as she picked up bottle after empty bottle that was strewn around their small living area. In the center of the chaos slept her poor, sad Father. The couch was where he planted himself when he couldn't make it into his bedroom. The couch was where Quyen normally found him sleeping. She sighed, staring at her sleeping Father who was disheveled and had a 5 o'clock shadow, growing more towards 10.

The sun was trying to shine through the cracks of their shutters and she took her eyes off her Father, moving towards the window. She pushed the shutters open, letting light spill into the room and the stench to leave it. With the fresh air filling her nostrils, she gave a nod and pushed through her chores.

She thought about the night before when he left the house, already slightly buzzed. She had tried to stop him, as she did every night, to no avail. She fought, plead, even used bending to stop. But his addiction was so strong, sometimes she wondered if he really wanted Quyen to end it all for him. The sadness in his eyes always pulled at her heart and she allowed him to leave.

She picked up her Father, after the bottles and debris were cleared, like a sack of potatoes onto her shoulder and put him in his bed. She dropped him unceremoniously which made him stir lightly before he turned his back to her and went back to sleep. Quyen was just happy she didn't need to fight the drunk bender this morning! She pushed a few rouge strands of hair off her forehead and took her shirt sleeve to wipe away the sweat that was building.

After leaving a meal for her Father and a note pleading him not to drink because they didn't have the money available, she left in her work clothes, helmut and lunch.

Closing and locking their very modest home, she checked to make sure there was no one to be wary of around. She had no problem dealing with these people on her own, but when her Father was in this state, it was not safe for him.

She had time and she was going to enjoy her walk to work, trying not to think of her home life.

-----

"The end is near! Run while you still can!" These were the words sprouted by a man in the park with clothing tattered and torn and wearing no shoes. His hair was mangled and knotty and his beard was growing into a nest. And the sole listener to this man's rant is a scruffy looking dog sitting very still and staring at the crazy man a few feet away.

Hands flailing in the air, he approached some woman holding groceries. "They took my bending! They made me go crazy!"

The woman jumped, frightened and taken off guard by the stranger. She dropped a few apples in her attempt to run away, whimpering as she did so.

The man grabbed at his head, resting a few fingers on his temples. "What are you talking about?! You can't bend! You could never bend! Get out of my head!" A few more people scurried away from the man and the dog had finally risen from where he sat and walked over to the apples that were now left discarded. The dog took one in his mouth and brought it over to the bent over homeless man. When he caught sight of the dog with the apple, he almost smiled, forgetting what he was just doing. He saw the other apple on the ground and ran to pick it up, looking one way and then the other before taking it and jumping into a bush.

His hand popped out from the bush as he signaled for the dog to follow. The dog almost looked like he sighed before trudging over to said bush and pushing his way in. "Good job Scruffy! What a great find. Breakfast is served!"

They both dug into their apples, a very funny pair.

Panda
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 9:30:34 GMT -6

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Post by Panda on Jun 7, 2012 9:30:34 GMT -6

OOC: I can claim daddy...

It was unfortunate that events had to become this; become what Garin had always protected Bao from. He felt the blood seeping from the gash given to him by these young, ruthless gang members. He would've had the funds returned to them in time, just as he had in the past, only if his wife didn't spend that surprise bout in the hospital.

If it had been in his years of youth, Garin would have fought his way through them. He knew he was skilled enough, even now, but age had taken its toll on his joints. Stances were more difficult to perform every day that passed and even walking every morning to work was a feat. He only had his voice.

"Please! I need only one more day! Twenty-four hours and I will have the rest of what I owe! You have my word - which has been good in the past!" He pleaded, aware he was only a few hundred yuon away from making the amount. He had been working overtime ever since he realized he was short.

If pleading would not work, he would have to resort to involving Bao... And he would never want to disappoint his son that way. But if he could not get out of this alive, Garin knew his son would have to live with knowing the death of his father was over everything his family was against.

Please...

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

It was strange.

It was strange that Bao's father wasn't here yet. They always met at the tea shop at the crack of dawn, most times even before it opened. But here he stood, outside of the doors, waiting for a father that was already late enough. Bao would be more worried if he had any sneaking suspicions about his father. But he didn't, so he just figured the old man had slept in again and mother was too kind to hit him awake.

Sighing, Bao shifted weight between his legs and scanned the streets. He should be arriving soon enough... Right?

zutara21
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 9:42:34 GMT -6

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Post by zutara21 on Jun 7, 2012 9:42:34 GMT -6

Up ahead, Quyen saw the silouhette of a guy, leaning against the wall of a shop she knew. Looking by his stature and the aura about him, she knew exactly who it was. When you grew up in Republic City since birth, you know of one another. She held up a hand as she said, "Hey Bao. Fancy meeting you here. Aren't you missing someone?"

She had always remembered seeing Bao and his Father together when she was headed into work. There were times when she would stop and talk and other times where she just waved as she ran to make sure she wasn't late for work.

It was a strange sight just Bao. She liked Bao. He was hardworking and wanted to make his own way, just like she did. She just wished her Father was more like Garin. Garin was always a proud and sweet man to her. He would always ask how Quyen was doing and worried over 'that stupid Father of yours'.

If she had to call any a friend, she would definitely say Bao was the closest, just based off of idle conversation.

Brystine
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 12:37:09 GMT -6

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Post by Brystine on Jun 7, 2012 12:37:09 GMT -6

Ghao reclined against a sack of flour and lit a cigarette with the tip of his fingers. He loved watching the sun rise from the docks like this, even if he was enjoying the view from yet another Triad assignment.

There were a few ships coming in the harbor, still far out on Yue Bay. One of those ships, the one with seven sails, held a person of interest for the Triad, some rich fancypants returning from some fancypants vacation out on some fancypants resort island. He and his family needed a proper welcome from Agni Kai. Bows, nice words, an escort to their house, and all that proper fancypants nonsense.

Eh, it wouldn't be the worst morning Ghao'd ever had.

Lorin's morning was off to an awful start, mostly due to how the night hadn't actually ended. She spent the entire night with a tiny chunk of metal, twisting and bending her ideas into it.

The little automobile felt heavier than it should, weighing down her bag as she stepped out the door. A quick movement fused the handle to the frame, locking her apartment for the day.

Tea sounded like a worthwhile stop this morning; she had plenty of time to get to Cabbage Corp. The Four Dragons wasn't too far and they had an excellent cup of green tea.

Someone familiar was leaning against the outside wall. Someone from the production line or maybe the testing division at work, Lorin thought, but she was a little too weary to place him at the moment.

Lorin vaguely nodded in his direction and pushed her way inside the tea shop.

Panda
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 13:27:07 GMT -6

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Post by Panda on Jun 7, 2012 13:27:07 GMT -6

Bao perked up at the sight of Quyen. While he was familiar with her home life, he was never as open about mentioning it as his own father was. Smiling, Bao greeted her in return. "Good morning, Quyen! Yeah... Speaking of him, have you seen my father? I mean, even on your way here... He probably just slept in, heh..." Bao tried to mask his ascending worry. He was sure that even with his small attempt at humor, it was obvious.

Just as quickly as he had started conversation with Quyen, he noticed Lorin. She was a beautiful woman that made a name for herself at Cabbage Corp. Bao ignored rumors or even slander about her, and admired that she had seemingly come out of nowhere to be a prominent figure in the company. She looked exhausted as she shuffled into the shop, so Bao only nodded in return, not wanting to keep her from her plans.

zutara21
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 14:27:41 GMT -6

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Post by zutara21 on Jun 7, 2012 14:27:41 GMT -6

She watched his recognition to her and was happy that he seemed okay, even though the look grew worried as his Father was brought up. "No, I haven't seen him on the path today." His look was still full of worry, even if he did try to hide it, so she pat him on the arm all chum-like. "Hey, it's your Dad we're talking about here. You're probably right about him sleeping in. I'm sure he's fine."

Something in the back of her head was strangely telling her otherwise, but she just ignored it. Just after the words were out, his attention was placed on a very pretty woman walking towards them. I had thought that she was going to stop but she pushed past into the shop, acknowledgements being passed between her and Bao.

Quyen raised a curious eyebrow. She even felt a little embarrassed watching the transfer and rose slightly colored her cheeks. She didn't really know much about guys and girls things. "So, what was that about? Do you know her? I didn't know you liked the pretty type. I always thought you were interested in Old Aunt Joo Dee!"

She thought that Bao would be perfect for the pretty girl that walked in. They were both very attractive and had that air that drew people towards them.

Last Edit: Jun 7, 2012 14:37:48 GMT -6 by zutara21

Ocean Wolf
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 15:22:29 GMT -6

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Post by Ocean Wolf on Jun 7, 2012 15:22:29 GMT -6

It was generally the same dynamic whenever they worked together, which was often. Kori was at the bottom of the chain of command. It was his sister Liandri who took charge though, so he wasn't particularly bothered by it. If any person had earned his respect, it was her.

At his sister's command for some "excitement," he let out explosions and streams of flames. His only struggle was making sure it was just to scatter the crowds away from the target rather than let them all be trapped inside and burned alive. He could handle it, his firebending skills were there, but it was just much more in his nature to be as violent as possible to get what he wanted. That was why his sisters were always the ones making the calls.

That, and the constant reminder that he was, in fact, the baby. Liandri ordered him to take the roofs, and he did as she said. Hearing his nickname still irked him, but in the middle of business he let it slide off of him. Only Liandri and Shuri. When they first joined the Triple Threats he was only thirteen and truly the baby of the Triads. It wasn't uncommon for them to have desperate street kids do some work for them, but not often did they become full-time members like Kori had. When his sisters called him Bay-Bay and the others overheard, it caught on. It became a joke. Kori became a joke, and he did not like that. The boy had never been good at hiding his anger, and after a few messy incidents nobody but his sisters dared to call him by that nickname anymore. He'd proven himself skilled and dangerous enough to the rest of the Triple Threats, even if it had gotten him in trouble with the higher-ups on a few occasions. The fact that his sisters had been able to get him out of trouble with the gang for his outbursts was the reason they still had the right to use that stupid nickname.

For a few moments, the firebender continued to rain down fire on people below, watching them scatter and run in every direction he forced them. It was pathetic how weak and terrified they were. How easy they were to intimidate, manipulate, and control. There was so little separating people from insects, it was no wonder they were so easy to crush. After he had any problematic witnesses out of the way, he hurried across the rooftops and kept his eye on the target, counting down in his head until the moment that Shuri had him cornered. As if the old man ever had a chance to escape.

Now came the boring part. He crossed his arms and watched from above as Shuri used one of her many intimidation techniques on the target. He hated the useless talking. Just put rocks in his eyes, Shuri...

Fortunately, he didn't have to wait much longer before she was raising a stone up to him. "A little heat, please, brother," she requested. A little heat? Without hesitation he uncrossed his arms and put as much fire into that pebble as he could without destroying it.

Then the man had the nerve to plead for another day and Kori's annoyance boiled over. He called down to his sister and the man below. "How many times have we heard that before? We came here to collect and you'll pay one way or another. If you don't burn him, I will."

~Aratak~
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 18:20:12 GMT -6

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Post by ~Aratak~ on Jun 7, 2012 18:20:12 GMT -6

"Man, this is just about the worst assignment I've ever been on," Chozen remarked as he began fixing his tie once seeing the boat coming in. He had only half slapped on the fancy suit because he hated wearing the darn thing and now he grumbled as he straighten it up. He had hoped to be able to burn it some day because it reminded him of the fancypants living that he hated. The thought never crossed his mind that the Agni Kais would make him wear a suit. He had had to drag it out of the closet and get it cleaned and now it was stiff and uncomfortable. The firebender rolled his shoulders and glanced at himself in the water once to check he was decent enough, slicked back his hair some, then leaned back again.

Chozen looked over at his partner, Ghao. "Got one to spare?" After receiving a smoke from Ghao he too lit it up and blew a smoke ring with a smirk. Then he shot a fiery arrow through the center with his fingertip.

********

Linda sat in the tea shop, sipping on her morning tea before she had to go to the market to sell vegetables. She looked up and smiled, waving in a small sort of way to her best of friends Lorin. An empty cup already sat opposite of Linda ready to be filled once her friend had arrived. She murmured to the waiter that the cup needed to be filled, and was extra sure to ask for the tea that Lorin treasured most. Looking at the tiredness of her friend, he also asked for a couple extra cubes of sugar. Perhaps they might need them.

Brystine
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 7, 2012 23:32:19 GMT -6

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Post by Brystine on Jun 7, 2012 23:32:19 GMT -6

Ghao smiled and handed Chozen a cigarette, "Of course, brother."

Chozen's impatience had always amused Ghao. Ghao sat up, leaning forward to peer at the horizon. "This ain't a half bad assignment, Cho. No fussin' or fightin'. Just strollin' through town with a fancy man and his fancy wife." He took a long drag off the cigarette and tossed it in the bay. "And you look good in that suit. You oughta wear it next time we go out drinking. Some gal might take a likin' to you all fixed up like that."

The boat with seven sails was well within eyeshot. "We best stand up and look presentable, Chozen. Gotta impress our betters."

Ghao stood up and brushed his shoulders off as the boat slowly pulled to the dock. Several uniformly dressed sailors tied the boat in and let down a ramp.

A well dressed, elegant husband and wife descended the ramp with an excruciatingly slow pace.

Ghao bowed, hoping Chozen did the same, as their well-shod fancypants feet hit the dock.

"Mr. and Mrs. Kuan, my cousin Phaoi sends his warmest regards and hopes you enjoyed your complimentary stay at the resort," Ghao greeted them, slang and accent suddenly gone. "It is our pleasure to escort you back to your home."

Lorin smiled at the younger girl. Linda. The name always got stuck in the back of her mind, had an open space and an expectant smile.

She had just enough time to chat and chug and Linda had ordered her favorite jasmine wulong blend. Lorin didn't stop often at the Four Dragons, but Linda seemed to be there, waiting each time. Lorin idly wondered what Linda did on the days Lorin didn't stop by.

"Hey, Linda," said Lorin cheerfully. She sat down. "I'm afraid I--" She yawned and continued, "I might not make good company today. Stayed up all night working. Now on my way to do more work, go figure."

The guy from work outside moved just so and she could see him through the window in the door. Bao, she remembered. Maybe it was time she owned up to being bad at names. Maybe it was the sleep deprivation--she didn't understand how she could've forgotten the name that goes with a face like his.

Her attention snapped back to Linda. "I'm sorry, I didn't catch what you said."

The Kat
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 1:37:30 GMT -6

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Post by The Kat on Jun 8, 2012 1:37:30 GMT -6

She jerked awake, lifting her face from the kitchen table.

A piece of paper stuck to her cheek. She peeled it off, staring at it in disgust. Bills. Endless bills. And now this one was covered in drool.
She threw it to the ground. A ray of sunlight glimmered in through the window, and she squinted at it, frowning.

"... Seriously?" She didn't even get to bed last night. She rubbed her face; the wood-grain was indented into her cheek.

"Good morning!" rang a deep, musical voice. Makoto.

"Morning father," she grumbled, monotone.

He bounded into the room, dressed in his best salesman finery. The gold and red suit made him look distinguished, like the gray streaks in his hair.
He fixed his beautiful golden eyes on her, squinting playfully. All of his crow's feet crinkled. "Well, well..." he chided. "Sounds like someone got up on the wrong side of the bed."

"... I fell asleep on your bills," she mumbled.

He blinked. Then he walked over to her, glancing at the piles of paperwork on the table.
He waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, don't worry about those. We'll take care of them later."

She gave him a desperate look. "But some of them can't wait until later!"

He wasn't paying attention.
He leaned down to kiss her forehead, ruffle her hair.
"Don't you worry, my little Chi!" he said again, heading for the door. "Oh, and I almost forgot; there's a delivery for the Four Dragons that's scheduled to go out today. I told Mr. Feng you could handle it!"

She frowned. "Feng Junior or Senior?" she called after him.
But he was gone.

A feeling of dread crept up her spine.

She was no stranger to working odd jobs at the Jade Lion, her father's import and export business.
Xing Feng, the man who owned the company, was one of the richest and most powerful men in Republic City.
But it wasn't the thought of that particular Feng that worried her.

Her palms grew sweaty as she imagined his son's beautiful, arrogant face.

"Shin..." she snarled, and she felt the smoldering embers flare up in the stove behind her.

There was no one in the world she hated more than Shin Feng.

But ... she'd do anything for her dad.
Even if that meant facing the most loathsome person in Republic City.

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

PiaoXin Feng loved everything about his life.

He loved being wealthy. He loved having easy power.
He loved the way people jumped to meet his every demand.
He loved his own face.

In fact, it is quite possible that PiaoXin Feng loved his own face most of all.

Accordingly, he was doing some loving of his own face in his father's office that morning, turning it this way and that in the mirror beside his father's desk.
He admired the sharp lines of his jaw, the smart way his eyes arched up at the corners.
He grinned, and considered the beauty of his pearly white teeth.

"Shin, stop staring at yourself and come take these forms to your father."

It was the secretary in the hallway.
She was leaning against the door, tapping her foot, holding a packet of papers. Shin flashed her a winning smile.
She'd always been a little too old for him, but hey.
It's impossible to be too charming.

"Right away, Miss Li," he crooned, sounding seductively earnest. "It'd be a shame to keep you waiting for anything."
He fixed her with his foxish green eyes, and as he reached out to take the papers, his fingers brushed against hers.

She blushed, unable to hold his gaze.
"Go on, then, get out of here," she mumbled, shaking her head.

Triumphant, Shin stepped past her, very deliberately brushing against her in the doorway. His eyes never left her face, although she'd long given up looking back at him.
"I'll be back soon," he murmured, winking. Her blush deepened and she scurried away into the office.

Too easy, he thought, moving down the hallway. She usually puts up more of a fight.

A beautiful new intern sidled past; he gave her his best wink and smile.
She blushed on cue.

"Hey, Shin," came a shy voice from an office to his right.

He glanced over, catching the eyes of the quiet, mousy secretary of Makoto Amagawa.
Already blushing, she smiled at him unsteadily, oozing self-doubt.

Shin grinned back, oozing the opposite.

Her eyes darted back down to her desk, and her cheeks reddened even more.
"H-hope you have a nice day," she called to him softly, staring down at paperwork.

"You too, Nishi," he said gently, and she squeaked at the sound of her name.

Too easy, he thought again.
Not that it surprised him.

The ladies fell at his feet.

He caught a glimpse of his reflection in another mirror, and grinned to himself.

And I really can't blame 'em.

He sauntered all the way to the east-wing warehouse, where he was sure his father was overseeing.
Gliding between rows and rows of imported packages, he looked for his familiar face.
Then, rounding a corner, he almost tripped over someone bending to retrieve a package.

"Woah there," he cried. Then he smiled, realizing it was a girl.
In his best sexy voice, he said: "If you wanted me to fall for you, all you had to do was ask."

Heaving up the crate, the girl got to her feet, twisting around to face him.

"In your dreams." Mimi's voice was flat.

Shin's eyes widened. "Amagawa?"

She pursed her lips. "I'm making this delivery. Make sure your dad finds out."

Shin's face was stony now, completely uninviting. He was like a beautiful statue: Emotionless. Cold.
"That's your father's delivery," he drawled. Even his tone was changed. All of the seductive, crooning notes were gone.

"I know," Mimi snapped. "I'm doing this for him."

Shin rolled his eyes. "What else is new."

She shook with a wave of anger, feeling her blood start to boil.

"Better watch it," Shin warned, his voice icy. His eyes narrowed, looking snakelike. "Bending in the warehouse is grounds for arrest."

Mimi closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. "Get out of my way," she gritted.

Shin made no move to let her by.

She fixed him with a fierce gaze, holding her own.
"One day, you won't be able to push everyone around like this," she whispered.

Shin's eyebrows raised. "Is that a threat? Because I could have you arrested for that, too."

Mimi's eyes flashed. She held his gaze a moment longer, then shoved past him.
He gave way, but not much; she had to push across his body. The clean, enticing smell of him filled her nostrils, and she gagged.
She ran out of the warehouse as fast as she could.

Shin watched her as she vanished, crate and all, into the streaming sunlight.

And he made a decision.

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

Mimi felt a bead of sweat trickle down her brow as she approached the facade of the Four Dragons.
She heaved the crate higher on her hip, but it didn't help much.
With both arms wrapped around it, it was all she could do to stay upright as she approached the door.

Forget about back-entry.

She was going straight in the front, and no one could stop her.

Last Edit: Jun 8, 2012 1:45:37 GMT -6 by The Kat

Sarcasmic Canadian Moderator We're back baby Posts: 113	LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 2:41:51 GMT -6 Quote Select Post Deselect Post Link to Post Member Give Gift Back to Top Post by Sarcasmic Canadian on Jun 8, 2012 2:41:51 GMT -6 OOC: I dropped Rob, my head is already spinning from characters and some of us haven't even posted yet... Plus I have no real plans for him.

theasianwonder
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 3:41:53 GMT -6

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Post by theasianwonder on Jun 8, 2012 3:41:53 GMT -6

Several things were flitting through Shuri's mind. She wanted to show this man just what she was capable of but she knew Liandri wanted him buried twenty feet into the ground after getting even a portion of their money. Shuri wanted to do things her way but this wasn't her bounty. Indecision caused her to be silent as the rock heated. She kept the small stone in her brother's flame until it was red hot. "I don't appreciate being spoken to in such ungrateful tones, sir," she said, a gleeful look brightening her eyes. Too many people have told her she was beautiful. The combination of her white hair and bright green eyes was often too difficult not to look twice but it was only when she was fulfilling a mission that true glee sparked beauty in her face.

"Twenty-four hours... hmmmm..." she told him, considering his pleas. Her mind reeled through the information they'd collected on his family and a simpering smile was met. Lost in thought, the smile only gathered steam as the idea solidified in her mind. "Do you know what I can get in twenty-four hours?" Slowly, she turned on her heel and looked at her elder sister. "His son." It was the closest Shuri would come to asking for Liandri's permission. It was ultimately her call whether the old man died now and they raided his home or they gave him 24 more hours while Shuri toyed with his boy. Really, it was up to Liandri whether the man suffered emotional pain or physical pain.

~Aratak~
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 8:59:58 GMT -6

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Post by ~Aratak~ on Jun 8, 2012 8:59:58 GMT -6

OOC: Hehehe, urp. I got confused XD Linda is supposed to be besties with Sada. Woops. BUT SHE IS STILL A FRIENDLY PERSON AND FRIENDS WITH LOTS OF PEOPLE <3

Linda nodded politely as she sipped her tea. She was always a good listener, and even at times provided advice. It was usually sound and simple advice like getting a good night's rest or taking a moment to just breathe. "You work too hard. Maybe you could find a different job that isn't so tiresome. Maybe try being a secretary."

Linda looked up from her tea to see that Lorin wasn't listening. Her light brown eyes flicked to the window where her friend was looking. She smiled in her small sort of way as Lorin flicked her attention back to her. "Do you know him? He's cute."

********

Chozen shot Ghao an incredulous look with a raised eyebrow. "Are you kidding me? That's why it's so terrible. It's so boring, and pompous too. You know what these rich folks do all day? Sit on their ass and eat miniature cakes and sandwiches and gossip about new cars over cigars and a brandy. It's the dullest life. What's I'd give for some fussin' and fightin'."

With a sigh, Chozen straightened his posture and without really thinking about it shifted back into the gentlemanly drills that were pounded into him from birth. Shoulders slightly back, chin slightly up, placing one arm behind his back and the other straight at his side. He scowled when he realized what he was doing and dropped his arm back down.

When the couple paraded off the boat with their finery Chozen silently clicked his heels together and bowed straight, keeping his head up to watch their descent. When he rose he simply nodded his agreement to what Ghao said. He may have slipped physically back into the fancypants life, but he refused to talk like them too.

Panda
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 9:49:37 GMT -6

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Post by Panda on Jun 8, 2012 9:49:37 GMT -6

"I didn't know you liked the pretty type...!"

Bao blinked a few times, playing in his mind the multiple responses he could have to that remark. But something about the innocence behind Quyen made Bao's face hot, a blush rising to his ears. Was he subconsciously oogling Lorin as she passed? Did it make Quyen uncomfortable? Angry? Did he offend her?

"Aunt Joo Dee can never be replaced in my heart!" He flashed a smile and laughed, trying to deflect from discussing anything about his personal interests in women. Bao just never felt comfortable revealing such things, almost as if it were improper.

In light of the moment, Bao almost let his worry completely melt away. What he wanted to do was invite Quyen in for tea, but something in his chest twisted tight, and he had a different idea...

"Hey, Quyen..." He started with an almost-whisper, stepping closer to her. "Would you mind coming with me to get my father?" His eyes fell on her, wandering shortly at the features of her face before locking on to her stare. In his mind, he pleaded for help.

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

THUD!

"Mmmm... ow!" Sada groaned, collecting herself from the wooden floor she had just made contact with. Literally rolling out of bed wasn't exatly what she had in mind. Rubbing her eyes, Sada shuffled towards the window, catching sight of the sunray spilling through the edge of the curtain.

With a loud, obnoxious yawn, Sada threw open the curtains and winced.

Damn, I'm late for tea again!

Rushing to her closet, Sada grabbed white trousers and a plain blouse. She shoved her legs through the pants as she stumbled out the bedroom door and down the narrow stairs. She slipped her feet into worn shoes as she made her way to the exit. Bursting through the front door, Sada had her shirt halfway on, pushing her arm through the second sleeve and hurrying down the street.

Why does this always happen? I hate mornings!

zutara21
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 10:34:25 GMT -6

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Post by zutara21 on Jun 8, 2012 10:34:25 GMT -6

She didn't expect the response to be any different than what was given, but still. The pause between that response made her wonder. She wondered whether his thoughts were still on his Father or had he seen the embarrassed blush she gave from the exchanged familiarity between the pretty lady and Bao.

Quyen wasn't given the time to think it over because Bao lowered his voice, saying her name, and stepped closer to her. She had never been this close to Bao. Thinking of it, she had never been so close to any man that wasn't her Father. She had to look up to meet his eyes that she found filled with concern. Her heart strings pulled, as they did when she looked at her Father when he wanted to drink.

"Would you mind coming with me to get my father?"

This line probably sounded casual to most people, but Bao never asked for anything. He was never that type. Quyen knew it was serious. Looking up into the sky, the sun was positioned in the sky telling her it was about time for work. She had never been late for work in the whole year that she had been there. Well, there's a first time for everything.

She grabbed his wrist and squeezed. "Of course I will. You want to try his house first?" She grinned up at him and let go of his wrist while also unconsciously taking a step back, finally being able to breathe again. She moved her helmut off her head and snapped it to her belt allowing her hair to flow with the wind as the mess it was. She waited for Bao to direct them where to go.

Last Edit: Jun 8, 2012 12:12:54 GMT -6 by zutara21

The Kat
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 11:50:15 GMT -6

Quote

Post by The Kat on Jun 8, 2012 11:50:15 GMT -6

Mimi barged in the front door of the Four Dragons, crate and all.

"Tea delivery," she said in a loud voice, walking sluggishly across the room.
Her eyes roamed across the faces in the joint.

Many of the people she knew to be benders. Not surprising.
The Four Dragons had always been popular with the bending community.

She wandered behind the bar in the back of the room, looking for a place to drop off the crate.
Every space looked occupied, and there didn't seem to be anyone back here to tell her what to do.

"... Guess I should have used the delivery door after all," she mumbled, still poking around behind the bar.

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

Across the street, Shin leaned against a storefront, watching the activity around the Four Dragons.
It wasn't very exciting. For such a popular tea-shop, there wasn't much traffic going in and out.

"Mr. Feng!" cried a wheezy voice.

Shin glanced over. It was the vendor of the store he was leaning against.
He didn't know his name, but he flashed him a charming smile nonetheless.

The old man bowed to him in greeting. "Is there anything I can do for you? Anything? I'm so honored by your visit!"

Shin blinked. Sure, he was a well-known fellow. He was even used to this kind of treatment.
But he had no idea who this man was.

"No, thank you," he said, using his best polite voice. "I'm just passing through."

The man bowed again. "Of course, of course! Oh, what an honor it is to see you! Give my regards to your father!"

Ah, so this man knew his dad. That made much more sense.
Shin nodded to him, grinning again, keeping eye-contact.

The man beamed at him, reaching out a trembling hand.
Shin stared at it a moment before accepting it.

"I owe the Feng family my entire life," quavered the man, shaking Shin's hand enthusiastically. "Your father gave me an opportunity when I had nothing else! And look at me now. My own business." He smiled widely at Shin, before faltering. "Though, I wish it was in another part of town..." His eyes darted to the Four Dragons. "I've had trouble with harassment in the past ... "

Shin glanced over at the tea-shop, too.
Benders.

"Thank you for your hospitality," he said in a monotone, pulling away.
The man called praise after him as he started across the street, but Shin didn't hear it.

He sauntered up to the door of the Four Dragons, slinking inside.

"Shin?" came a confused, flirty voice. He glanced over toward the source.
A table full of girls giggled at him, and he smiled, walking over.

"Well, well, well..." he crooned, taking a seat with them, spreading his arms around as many shoulders as he could reach. "Looks like I need to come here more often."

The girls giggled loudly.

Ookami
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 8, 2012 18:38:34 GMT -6

Quote

Post by Ookami on Jun 8, 2012 18:38:34 GMT -6

((OOC: STUPID I KNOW BUT JUST AS AN FYI TSURU'S EYES ARE THE SAME COLOR AS THE PAIR ON THE BOTTOM

ALSO, THIS IS AN AWESOME MAP OF THE CITY WITH LABELED BUILDINGS AND PLACES
24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m3w1anjWE21ruots8o1_r1_1280.png))
((OOC: ALSO! Kat, I'm assuming since Mimi barged in she had to open a door quickly and barge in or something? If not I can make it some random person who does that)
===================================
His green eyes looked towards a table of people across the room. He fixed one of the beautiful yet small and simple jade plugs in his ears meant to pull out the strange green of his eyes and swept his blackish-brown hair back up into a small ponytail held into a loop that had the end pointing up and spiking into a fountain shape held up by a piece of wood shaped like a rounded band and adorned with carvings of a crane fasted with a thick chopstick-like rod of the same wood. adorned with three small saffron-colored beads near the thickest end; goodness, his hair was beginning to get long. The young man was dressed in a simple but elegant hanfu, that served as his server's uniform (like the man in this photo's robes), though each server wore a unique outfit but all were some kind of robes, either yukata, kimono, or hanfu like the young man with the jade eyes and ear jewelery, and all were varied shades of greens. moved gracefully between tables carrying a platter holding a small, cast iron tea kettle adorned with two dragons dancing on each of its sides(like this) raised above five small cups (like these) each on their own small square saucer and platform accented with green that surrounded it and in a neat and elegant set (like this except with the teapot and cups and colors I described). He seemed as if he would be able to maneuver through the maze of tables and chairs with his eyes closed and not hit a single item, as his long legs moved gracefully with light steps as he flowed like a winged water snake between furniture and the occasional person on his way across the room to the table he was serving. A just as he neared the group of customers, a loud boom of a heavy wood door nearly slamming shut, sent the young server's nerves into a sudden panic and his his muscles tingled and tensed, sending a jolt through his body that made him jump a bit, making the tea set he carried clatter and a cup began to tip and send it toppling onto the head of one of the seated members of the table he was serving. But as quickly as the cup began to fall, the man's hand shot towards it as he suddenly was standing on one leg to extend his reach at the same time he shifted the platter holding the rest of the green cast-iron cups and one heavy cast-iron teapot all balanced on their own individual square saucer onto his other arm and kept uncannily perfect balance as his reaching hand caught the stray cup just as it began to fall of while still keeping the rest of the tea set still; all of this done standing on one, long leg. The other was lifted and bent with his toes pointing downward; the pose bearing an incredible resemblance to a long-legged water bird, like a crane, perhaps.

Always the calm, dignified one, the young man took a breath and placed the fugitive tea cup back onto it's saucer to rejoin the set, and thus returned balance and order. He shifted smoothly back onto two feet and grabbed a hold of the plate in his hands with a firm, two-handed grip and with his former refined poise returned after a moment of upheaval, he gently placed the tea in the center of the table; wide-eyes watched him, the widest pair belonging to the man who could have had a cast-iron teacup greeting his cranium just moments ago.

"I am extremely sorry for that, sir." The server spoke in a quiet, calm tone. "If I may, please let me see if I can give you this order of tea free of charge for the inconvenience." He said to the whole table and offered amends for the fiasco. They thanked him; the man who was saved from a possible, unpleasant bump on the head was the most enthusiastic and commended him for his dexterous actions.

He turned around to find the shop's owner and ask if he could give those people their order free of charge.

But first... there was that. His green eyes darted back towards the entrance to the restaurant.

=================================

The smell of salt of sea air lingered in her nose and hair as she headed from the direction of the harbor to the direction of what she thought was the right direction toward some tea shop that was supposed to be called "The Four Dragons" in the main downtown section of Republic City. It was indeed a city. She couldn't even believe the amount of people she'd seen just bustling around the harbor and docks. She was glad to have changed out of her heavy parka. It was not anywhere near as cold as the frozen tundra she called home. Home. The North Pole was so far away from her. Now, she had her one companion as the only one from her home here in this city. Beside her, a towering white beast padded alongside her owner, earned stares from any they passed. Many seemed frightened. Kai could understand why. Her companion was a towering white wolf from the North, that seemed the size of a platypus-bear. A strange saddle rested on its back cushioned with a blanket and pelt. It was handy to have a giant arctic dire wolf to carry your luggage.

Before Kailani went to find the place her father had told her to find, she stopped at the inn situated in a nice area in the city. It was hard to find a place that would let her keep a giant wolf. But her father had a friend who suggested the White Snow-Stag Inn, which was run by owners who used to live in the Northern Water Tribe and were familiar with arctic dire wolves like Kai's.

She decided to let Atka, the dire wolf of her's, to rest back at the inn and continue her search for the Four Dragons. She kept glancing at the scrap of paper on which her father wrote the name and directions to the place and the name of person she was supposed to meet. It was so huge, this city. People of all kinds swarmed around her as she wandered, feeling like she was setting closer and closer to being very lost... Her homeland was a large citadel compared to their sister tribe in the South Pole... but this place made the Northern Water Tribe's frozen city look like a snowball next to a huge snow drift! Not to mention the incredible diversity among its denizens. There were people from all places, a mix of Fire Nation, Earth Kingdom, and even Water Tribe clothing and facial features and a culture that came from the blend of these to create a unique, thriving culture that belonged to the city.

Speaking of the culture of the city... Kailani felt uneasy at the sight of some of the citizens. Some groups of tough-looking people hanging around storefronts.

This was no North Pole.

Last Edit: Jun 8, 2012 21:35:49 GMT -6 by Ookami

Sarcasmic Canadian
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 9, 2012 17:16:21 GMT -6

Quote

Post by Sarcasmic Canadian on Jun 9, 2012 17:16:21 GMT -6

"Good idea Shuri, you find his son. I'll take Kori and we'll take the old man to his place for a financial transaction," said Liandri, impressed by Shuri's initiative and she drew some water out the bottom of her quiver and formed ice cuffs around the old man's wrist, making sure they froze his wrists to the point of searing pain.
"Mind telling us where we can find your son?" asked Liandri, tracing an ice cold finger along his jaw and leaving a bright red sore where she had touched him. The man held his tongue however and Liandri sighed and turned to her sibling, "Shuri, before you go, mind making him talk?"

==========

"That's it kid! You and your rash attitude let those Equalists get away! That's the third time in two weeks Officer Gabineau!" The rest of the lecture blurred out in Gabe's head while he tried to think of the right thing to say in this situation.
"We're benders, not a group of kids pretending to be vigilantes and throwing pebbles!"
"Then don't get so 'bent' out of shape sir," said Gabe, using humor to work his way out of a scolding.
"Enough with the jokes Gabineau. We're a unit, we don't have room for heroes! Why do you think your partner ending up dy...?" Gabe was on his feet before Lin Bei Fong could finish and was suddenly restrained by two other officers to avoid physical confrontation.
"Temper, humor, and acting rash is all you consist of Gabineau. When you can learn to be part of a team, maybe you'll have a place here. Until then, you're relived of duties."

Last Edit: Jun 9, 2012 17:29:11 GMT -6 by Sarcasmic Canadian

theasianwonder
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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 9, 2012 18:46:18 GMT -6

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Post by theasianwonder on Jun 9, 2012 18:46:18 GMT -6

Despite the fact that she was an accomplished water bender, Li hated boats. They rocked, they swayed, and they were slow as fuck. The train was much faster and she knew for a fact, due to "test driving" most of them, that the Kuans had every Hiroshi Sato model living in their garage. The seven sailed ship was just pretentious. Either way, it wasn't her place to say anything -- not that she would, anyways. Vocalizing any complaint wasn't necessarily her style.

"Li! Hurry up and get dressed! We can see the port from here! Kyoshi, child!!" a deep voice cursed at her.

Li's attention was snapped onto her father. There were a small slew of maids standing behind him to which she assumed were to make her look glossy and rich. Giving a slight head bow to her father, she passed through the doorway into the Lady Kuan's cabin where she would be dressed and pressed for an extremely long day of being Li-the-Goddaughter. Republic City was dangerous these days, or so her father said. Never had Li spent an extended amount of time in the city of peace not was she eager for it.

In no time at all, Li was being ushered alongside Master Kuan and his wife. Cracking her neck, knuckles, shoulders, elbows, fingers, and wrist, Li felt limber enough to step into the role. It was easy for her due to her extreme fondness of the Lady Kuan. She'd do anything for the woman. As the deck was lowered, both Kuans began their harrowing descent to the dock. Putting on a rather meek expression, Li also followed dutifully behind. Her job was to stick out enough to be family but blend in enough to be able to do her job.

As their feet hit the docks, Li's eyes caught the form of a taller man with tanned skin and the man next to him. Both were extremely pretty in their own respect and Li made a mental note of them before looking about the crowd for any other faces. The moment introductions were made, Li ticked the tall one off as harmless but the short one still made her suspicious. A scowl like that wasn't something Li enjoyed seeing although she felt like scowling herself. Her knives were hidden in various places but the dress itself was always a topic of complaint for Li.

Momentarily forgetting her role, Li nearly began walking before her own introductions were made. Lady Kuan gave a tinkling, genuine laugh as she said, "Our goddaughter, Li, is quite eager to get off these docks. She's not a fan of sailing." With that, a demure smile left her lips while her eyes raised to the taller one's face as she gave a respectful bow of her own. The more she watched the short one, the more she didn't like the twitch of his brow but she was smart enough to wait and watch... and follow the important people to their new vacation home.

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

A smile lit Shuri's lips the moment "Good idea" left Liandri's. This was what she was made for. Sure, blatant pain was all fun and games when she needed to impose a quick lesson but giving mental torture was what she was made for. This old man would live the rest of his life knowing he killed his son and his son would die realizing his father was not the man he thought he was. Kori liked the torture, Shuri liked the chased. A look of pure glee took over her features giving her a harsh expression -- her beauty ruined with the ecstasy behind it.

Shuri turned back to face the old man, her head rolling leisurely. The man's spirit was strong especially in the face of putting his family in danger but Shuri knew better than to harm the man to get the information out of him. He would be Kori's to slaughter. Walking closer to him, she leaned closer to him and whispered, "All I need is a name, old man. A name and I won't immediately give away your secrets. A location and I won't immediately hurt him. He can either die right away knowing you were a failure, or you play my game and both of you have a chance of living." Standing up straight, Shuri turned on her heel and stopped with her back to the man. "I'm even gracious enough to give you the first move."

Casually, she walked closer to Liandri and two paces before she was gone, she heard a choked cry from behind her. "Bao. Please... " Shuri looked at Liandri and winked, "Location, old man. I always keep my promises." It was true, it didn't matter what it was about, not a single client could say Shuri had ever lied to them. "Four Dragons." Another choked sob. "Twenty four hours," Shuri started, turning to Liandri, "I never promised his safety." And with that she darted off to go find Bao.

---

It didn't take long for Shuri to flat out run to the Four Dragon tea house. She knew no one that worked there, no one that frequented it, and most of all, she knew no one that could have barged in only moments before her. Giving her legs full steam ahead, she burst through the doors of the tea shop with much fervor and heaving of air. Absolute fear and panic whooshed out of her every pore as each gasp of air was demanded from her lungs. "Bao Roshan! Your father was taken!" she said into the room. Her brows creased as her eyes looked around the tea house for the man who owned the name "Bao Roshan"

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LoK: Rise of the Equalists Jun 9, 2012 19:27:34 GMT -6

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Post by zutara21 on Jun 9, 2012 19:27:34 GMT -6

As she waited about to leave with Bao, Quyen saw a woman pound passed them, entering the tea shop as if her life depended on it. Curiousity tugging at her, she listened, hearing the gasps of breath before the woman finally spoke. Her careful green eyes looking around the room not matching her voice that was frantic.

"Bao Roshan! Your father was taken!"

At that moment, Quyen's heart dropped. She instinctively grabbed Bao's arm, holding tight. Upon closer investigation, she thought the woman looked familiar, but from where? The way she was dressed and those green eyes, she would have definitely noticed her before. But still, something was grabbing at the back of her mind as she tried to think.

She was scared for Bao and didn't know if he had heard the strange woman. She whispered to Bao, "That woman that just rushed in, she said that your Father was taken. Why would she know that? Why would your Father be taken?"

LoK: Rise of the Equalists

Post by zutara21 on Jun 7, 2012 8:08:47 GMT -6

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Post by ~Aratak~ on Jun 7, 2012 18:20:12 GMT -6

Post by Brystine on Jun 7, 2012 23:32:19 GMT -6

Post by The Kat on Jun 8, 2012 1:37:30 GMT -6

Post by Sarcasmic Canadian on Jun 8, 2012 2:41:51 GMT -6

Post by theasianwonder on Jun 8, 2012 3:41:53 GMT -6

Post by ~Aratak~ on Jun 8, 2012 8:59:58 GMT -6

Post by Panda on Jun 8, 2012 9:49:37 GMT -6

Post by zutara21 on Jun 8, 2012 10:34:25 GMT -6

Post by The Kat on Jun 8, 2012 11:50:15 GMT -6

Post by Ookami on Jun 8, 2012 18:38:34 GMT -6

Post by Sarcasmic Canadian on Jun 9, 2012 17:16:21 GMT -6

Post by theasianwonder on Jun 9, 2012 18:46:18 GMT -6

Post by zutara21 on Jun 9, 2012 19:27:34 GMT -6