The New Sheep is a Vixen~ (part 2)
WHO: Excellen Browning, Roy Fokker, Sanger Zonvolt, Misato Katsuragi, Agrias Oaks
WHAT: The Sheep Get a New Member, and she has a lot in common with the Commander!
WHEN: 14 April 2007
WHERE: Various Locations of the SDF-1
"I drink whiskey, lady." Roy says to Excellen as he brings the jeep to a halt outside the Black Sheep common area. "Beer is for pansies or babies." he smirks, turning off the engine, and climbing out to help take up Excellen's gear. "You'll be next door to Christina for now. Bernie's living with her at the moment, so don't mind the noise /too much/." he teases.
"Let's see.. the Sheep." the pilot considers for a moment. "When I first came through the Gates, there was very few of us that piloted mecha of any type. But there was a definite threat out there, and at the time, we were the fast deployers. I talked to the IPA and got permission to find like minded and equiped individuals to make a squadron. We answer to Havelock and Superman, but they only have command of us in the loosest sense of the word."
"Anyway, we have our own wars to fight, and I realize that. That's why I'm willing to be really flexible as far as that goes. We take care of each other across the board and Gates." Roy shrugs. "But if you need to take care of something personally, such as what Kyosuke is doing at the moment, I understand that and allow for such."
"Anyway, other than that, I believe that we're a team, and a family in a sense. We do things like organized sports, combat drills, and really try to behave as both a team and a unit, if that makes sense."
"..." There's a long pause at the mention off Roy's drink of choice. Then, Excellen reaches over to rest a hand on his arm briefly, expression dead serious and lashes fluttering. "I think, Commander Handsome, that we're going to get on -famously-." Mmmhmmmhmm.
Picking up her jacket, arms slide easily through the fabric before gloves are adjusted to rest sleeve cuffs comfortably at the wrist. She doesn't zip up, however, settling for smoothing out her collar before making to grab for her bag -- then leaves it be, since Roy's being quite the gentleman here. Brows do wiggle a bit at the mention of a potential 'noisy neighbour', but there's no comment; no problems for her, at any rate. "Sounds like quite the party! Must make for some hectic scheduling, having so many different units under your command, huh?" What he's saying makes a great deal of sense, especially with the sort of setup in play here. "Do you have more of these ships out there for that sort of thing? I didn't see any other PTs like the Alt stashed in the bay.."
There's a faint 'hmmm' in answer to his comment about Kyosuke, before the strawberry blonde bounds after him. "It'll probably take a few days for all the paperwork and transfer tape to get tied up," she admits after a moments thought.
"If you mean units that can work in multiple enviroments, then plenty. Actually your world's tech is not too far off of our own and that of the Gundam pilots like Amuro and Christina." Roy grins at the hand on his arm, and he winks. "I'm a pretty easy going Commander. I can bring the hammer if I need to, but I've been in enough wars to know that jumping up and down on heads don't work." he shrugs, absently wondering who would be madder - Ranpha or Agrias.
As he grabs the bag, he continues to answer the question, however. "Quite a few people have unique mecha. Mine is one of the few that's mass-produced, though I hear that style is quite common on your world as well." As he carries the bag to the quarters, he reaches into his pocket and pulls out an envelope with a map and a pass key. "You'll need these. If Sanger's right, this ship is larger than any you may have served on in the past. The restricted areas are marked, and the key pass won't let you into them."
"So, now that all the formalities are out of the way.. want to go down to the bar and grab a drink?" he asks with a wink.
"I saw a few of your own units. Really cute guy escorted us in, too," she sighs. Someone like Katina could never appreciate the finer points of enjoying the view, even if all she had to go on was the head-shot visual. Honestly, the girl was in dire need of a super robot to set her head on straight. And that's not the most immediate suggestion that springs to mind for Excellen regarding the rabid blonde.
"I noticed a few similarities.. Huh. So, you've got gespensts of your own?" Surely nothing like her Weissy, though. Girl's got to have some pride. Navigating the area set aside for the Sheep doesn't appear half as troublesome as learning the entirety of the ship, and the offered map and keycard are accepted gracefully. The map is partially unfolded, then refolded and stuffed in a jacket pocket. "I don't think we've anything quite this back home," the Moon and Earth Cradles certainly wouldn't count, "but I'm sure someone would be happy to help me find my way back here."
Excellen has a better sense of direction than Masaki, after all.
Technically, the formalities will be over once she's checked in with Sanger, but.. "I thought you'd never ask!" Teeth flash, and keycard is slid into an inside jacket pocket. "Since you know where the booze is.. After you!"
"Oh, I'm sure." Roy responds with a shake of his head and a chuckle. After she's settled her bags inside, the pilot starts to lead the way to the bar. "Ah, that was Lieutenant Sterling. He used to be a Sheep but decided to return back to the Skull Squadron after the last big offensive."
The 'bar' of the Black Sheep was supposed to be a small meeting room, but since Roy believe in a more open atmosphere, he had a jukebox moved in, a bar placed in, and there's enough room for most of the Sheep to fit comfortably. There's a card table and a dart board set up.. with pictures of what is listed on the screen as 'The Divine Crusaders'.
Guess who?
By the looks of things (notably, the stacks of empty bottles and cans), Misato's been here quite a while, along with Sanger. With the trial recessed, she's had to find something to do, after all, and so long as she has to stay on the SDF, well.... She finishes draining her can of beer and slams it down on the countertop. "Ahh!" The red tinge on her cheeks is evident, adding to the testimony that she's been working on it for quite a bit.
In an instant, another can is snatched up and popped open, and she is about to start chugging again. However, out of the corner of her eye, she spots some familiar faces closing in. "Hey, Commander! You should have let me known you had a stash of booze like this for the Sheep. I'd have joined that much sooner!" And the thing is...she's probably not kidding. Don't worry, she'll contribute to the bar fund soon enough to make sure it's well stocked for the future. "Who's your new friend?" A slight leer added now. "Does Lady Oaks know?" Eyebrow waggle. Though she knows that Roy, for all his flirting and such, is really quite a faithful guy.
Sanger Zonvolt is in a bar. Truly, death has gripped the world in its cold, icy fingers.
The white-haired man is not drinking, however. Excellen's boss is sitting at a table, opposite a woman, with a glass of juice in his hand. He takes a long sip of it. His back might be to Excellen and Roy as they enter, but missing him would be hard - his white hair, tall build, and heavy red coat are hard to not notice. His samurai sword gives it away.
"Are you /certain/ you aren't drinking too much, Major Katsuragi?" he asks of the woman sitting across from her. Then, he turns to regard the newcomers. He blinks, upon recognizing both of them - and one he didn't expect.
"Lieutenant Browning," he says. "I hadn't expected your arrival."
"Ah, Misato, you know I'm saving the torrid affair for you." Roy says with a wink. As he goes over to the autodispenser, he yanks out a pair of whiskeys, unbuttoning his formal jacket as he does so. "Evening, Sanger. I found her while I was coming off duty. One of yours, I think?" he asks with a smirk. "She wasn't wearing a collar or anything." Handing Excellen one of the shots of whiskey, he goes to sit with the others.
"Any news on Kyosuke?" he asks Sanger. "Because if you don't, I do." the pilot offers, seeming none too happy about the idea.
Speak of the devil, and he will appear. Fortunately, Agrias Oaks is no devil, no matter how much young and unattached females of Macross City may resent her relationship with their beloved ace pilot.
Actually, she's looking fairly normal; almost casual. Boots, jeans, a dark long-sleeve shirt tucked into them. Brown leather belt. One of those leather jackets like the Black Sheep Squadron has. Bomber. Surplus. Instead the patch is the Vanguard Detachment's winged sword. Ever-present black ebon cane.
She brushes knuckles against the doorway in what might be a knock, if the ambient sound of the place didn't swallow the sound. Golden eyes scan the crowd. He isn't hard to find. Ah... there.
She stares him down long enough for inevitable eye contact. Signal his attention. He can come when he isn't busy. And with that, she makes her way over to the bar, not too far from Sanger and Misato. She doesn't speak to them, though, instead ordering ehrself something. Wine. She takes her glass and seats herself at the counter, leaning her cane against her stiff right leg.
Bag ditched and room (and neighbours!) left to be investigated later, the strawberry blonde is certainly keen to learn the location of the most important room on the ship!
..Now this IS homey, isn't it? The dart board and its variety of targets will get a good look-in later, but it's the two occupants seated at the table who catch Excellen's eye; a brow lifts curiously at Misato, before a grin is given Roy's back. Darn, spoken for are we? Tsk, tsk, getting a girl's hopes up like that~. And oh, hey, here's the Boss.
...
...Waitwaitwait. Hand comes up in a salute to Sanger, one blue eye winking cheekily. "Assault-2, checking in as ordered by the EFA, sir~" You weren't expecting her? Odd. "The Hiryu Custom was requested to deliver some aid for Commander Handsome's ship here, and they dcided to deliver me, too! ..Bullet got held back due to technical issues with the T-Link system and that new unit Mao Industries is breaking out."
And then there's a shot of whiskey in her hands.
Bonus life! "Thank you," Excellen doesn't quite crow, savouring a sip from her glass before bouncing towards one of the couches lining this table; Agrias' entrance hasn't been noted yet, as the pilot is busy saluting Misato with her glass. "Second Lieutenant Excellen Browning, ATX Team. And you are~?"
Then gaze shifts back to Fokker at the keyword. And then a half-pout over her glass at Sanger. You never let /me/ go gambling, Boss.
"Pfft, Major Sanger, this is nothing," Misato insists, now taking a hearty swig. "You should have seen the last weekend bender I was on, we must have destroyed two bars' worth of alcohol...." Nevertheless, she is at least pausing between drinks, perhaps to allow for more conversation. "Oh, stop it, Roy," she says with a snort and a grin, reaching out to whack his arm as he goes past.
Sensing the conversation taking a slight turn for the serious, she straightens up a little bit. "What's going on with Kyosuke? Nothing too bad, I hope?" She pauses, nods to Excellen. "I'm Major Misato Katsuragi of the NERV member group, on the command staff for the Black Sheep." Adding in a salute, she smiles. "Welcome to the Squadron, Lieutenant."
Ahh, and there she is. "Evening, Dame Oaks," she calls to Agrias and offering a friendly wave. She decides against trying to wave the Vanguard captain over, though; if Agrias wants to join them, then she'd go ahead and do that herself.
"I believe he has been in training," Sanger replies to Roy. He gives him a nod, before he turns his head and looks at Excellen. Is it any surprise? Sanger expects his team to train a great deal. He gives her a salute. "I see. Good work, Assault-2. And a shame about Lieutenant Luckfield... nonetheless."
He frowns at the shot of whiskey. "Good to have you with us." Then, he looks at Misato and sighs. "I suppose..."
It's just because he has the tolerance of a twelve year-old!
See, Misato, you don't need Rei to summon the devil. She's right here.. oh wait. Roy gives Sanger a look. "You didn't see the news report or the bill I got, did you?" the Commander asks, "The casion decided since they knew who it was, they'd send me the bill. But what's with the girl he's traveling with. Lamia?" it's the first he's heard of her.
The pilot takes the shot of whiskey, then rises. "Beg pardon." Going over to the dispenser, he presses a few buttons until he has a glass of red wine. Which he carries over to Agrias. "Good evening, m'lady. A spot of wine to help calm you after a /really/ long day?"
"It's a pleasure," purrs the slinky blonde, one leg folding over the other as she takes another sip of whiskey. WooHOO, now this is good stuff. Perhaps she should drop a note to XO Sean, /he'd/ appreciate a decent drink.
Command staff, huh? There's a smirk at the exchange between the dark haired woman and Roy, before her head shakes slightly. "Ah, but I'm not part of the Squadron.." There's an unspoken 'yet' tacked on there. Primarily because she's been assigned to the Gungrust's pilot's command and not the IPA's. She'll go where he tells her to, like as not. "Commander Handsome here is graciously loaning me a room till the paperwork's settled. It'll be up to Boss after that."
Neck cranes then, looking across to this Oaks lady Misato just pointed out by her greeting. Ooho~! What's this? Glancing speculatively between the Vanguard's Captain and the Sheep commander...Excellen opts to turn her attention to the drink instead. And talk of Kyosuke, of course. Which is why her expression is briefly serious. "Commander Fokker said he'd been MIA..? But the Alt's parked in the hanger." She set down the Weissritter right next door, after all. And *who is* this mysterious 'Lamia' person? If Excellen were the type, she might even feel a little jealous.
The Captain of the Vanguard Detachment is known for a certain aloofness. Most assume it's just her nature, haughty or detached... but really, she's just shy. It's a little-known fact.
Agrias blinks as a glass of red is suddenly held before her, and there's Roy, standing there with his mock courtesies. She gives a dry chuckle, accepting it with a nod. "You have no idea."
"Not entirely unpleasant, but long. Yesterday I met with the newest recruit. Colette Brunel. Sweet girl, and eager to prove herself. Capable. I have a good feeling about her. Her file makes little sense to me, though. I will have to read it again. And let us not begin to... ah, that reminds me."
"Ivalice has agreed to accept assistance from the IPA." Her expression darkens, though. "Granted, it took a certain measure of grovelling before His Majesty--" The inflection on the title seems a mockery more than anything else, "--before he would acknowledge the offer. He is bitter... perhaps he blames me for surviving, where Sir Beoulve did not."
She gives a snort, taking a sip of wine. "I do not care. My intention is to rebuild the kingdom, free of the shackles of war... we shall see. In the meantime, I have duties here to see to."
Eh?
She glances over, as though finally noticing the others whom she'd chosen a spot near. "Ah. Hello, Major Katsuragi. Major Zonvolt." She spares them a tired smile and a listless salute. "My apologies. I did not see you there."
Agrias casts a brief glance over to Excellen, the unknown. That's about when Excellen glances down into her own drink; shrugging, Agrias merely turns her attention back to Roy.
"Lamia? I do not know - on either grounds." Sanger frowns with this bit of information. Clearly, he needs to find Nanbu and have a word with him quickly; he hadn't heard about this situation. He sits up a little straighter, looking back at Excellen. She would ordinarily know.
"It seems we will have to find him, Lieutenant. I do not doubt that the Black Sheep... will assist in this matter." His eyes turn left and right, looking at Roy and Misato for a moment. "That he left without the Alteisen surprises me, as well."
Then, he looks at Agrias. He blinks, then nods. "Captain Oaks. You are well?"
Misato's eyes crinkle a moment. "What, non-Squadron members are allowed in here? You were holding out on me, Roy!" But the mock-anger dissolves pretty quickly, and she chuckles and shakes her head, taking another drink of her beer. "Well, welcome anyway, Excellen. I'm sure you'll find a good spot with us in whatever group you might end up in. We can always use another good soldier."
To Agrias, Misato just waves off the apology. "Quite all right, Dame Oaks; I know that look on your face. I've had the same kind of day before. Just relax and take it easy." And, she thinks to herself, Agrias is probably pretty well and truly fed up with a number of things. She knows that the knight's homeland is going through some pretty rough political times. She grimaces, imagining how well she herself would hold up under that sort of a trial.
"Things to attend to here?" Roy asks in some confusion, pressing a kiss against her cheek before he sits down next to her, and grabs a fresh whiskey. "I didn't want you drinking me out of stock, lock and barrel, Misato!" the Commander shoots back at the woman before he smirks.
Sanger regrabs his attention, however. "Of course. We're a team, Sanger. As I was explaining to Excellen." the Commander of the Sheep explains. "If you need help tracking down Kyosuke and his friend, I'll spare what resources we can. Especially since he mentioned a vehicle with a Tesla drive." Roy shrugs. "Ah. Excellen Browning, this is Misato Katsuragi, my operations officer.. and this is Lady Agrias Oaks, Captain of the Vanguard Detachment, my fiancee, and a whole lot of other titles that if you get me drunk enough I can recite by heart. Oh, and conquerer of hedge mazes."
Not only going through the threat of a war that would tear it apart, but she -- in order to treat with the king, politically -- must sneak incognito from the Gate to the Imperial Palace. What a mess.
"Thank you. I believe taking it easy is about all I have left to do, at this point." As for herself, Agrias just gives a slightly strained-looking smile. "Anything else rests on His Majesty, and I do not have the power or the influence to sway his mind or speed his thinking. Things are... strained, betwee us, and I am fortunate he does not have me seized as a heretic and a criminal. Negotiations are difficult, at best."
She takes several sips of wine. "Eh," she sighs, dismissively. One hand waves a bit. "There is little to be done about it. Aye, Major Zonvolt, I am well; thank you for asking." She takes a sip of wine. "How are you, Majors? I trust you are well? And you, Commander Fokker?" There's a certain mirth when she returns his overt courtesy with her own. "I trust you, too, are w--"
The knight reaches up and covers her face with a hand, for a moment, groaning. "Honestly, Roy. I'd almost forgotten about the hedge maze incident." The hand lowers, and Agrias twists, giving an abbreviated bow to the indicated newcomer. "However, it is a pleasure to meet you." Her mouth twists in a wry smile. "Aye, as Roy says, there are a number of other titles I have been associated with. Unnecessary, for the most part, and largely former. All you need know is that I am Captain of the Vanguard Detachment. It is an honour."
Excellen is, unfortunately, also at a loss. However, she WAS assigned to a space ship attached to a moon base for the past few months. It's a little difficult to get a postcard in space. Let alone get Kyosuke to write regularly. And for the record, you both write exceedingly boring reports. Whatever happened to play by play, blow by blow accounts of your battles?!
This is, primarily, the reason Excellen is not given the task of writing up reports. Fear of embellishment.
There's a broad grin for Misato, and glass extends across the table to 'clink' obligingly in toast, should the Major care to indulge. "I'll drink to that," she winks, before chugging back her drink and clapping the glass back onto the table.
And gives Sanger a sharp nod. "Aye, aye, Boss." She'll certainly be up for seeking out Assault-4. It can't have been a training mission if the Alt's still here -- unless he took the Wildrauptier..? Although, she does have to wonder.. "How bad -was- the bill anyway, Commander Handsome?" She doesn't seem at all bothered about calling him that in front of Agrias, who she turns about in her seat to get a better look at.
An honour..? There's a two-fingered salute for the Vanguard's leader, but Excellen can't help but chuckle. "I think that's the first time anyone's said that to me," and meant it honestly, for which she can't help but be a little grateful. "Still, it's nice to meet you, ma'am."
Misato cackles. "Yeah, well, now that I know this place is here, it's too late!" She whoops and drains the rest of her beer, slamming it down and popping open yet another one. This is what the weekend is for: boozing with friends. Delightful, isn't it?
Quickly, though, she settles back down a bit--don't want to scare off new recruits after all. She nods as Roy describes her position in a little more detail. "I've known Roy for a while--ever since NERV joined the IPA a couple years ago, more or less--but I'm relatively new to the Squadron itself." She raises her beercan in a sort of toast to Agrias--and then redirected to clink against Excellen's proffered glass. "Cheers!" Chug! "Well, I'm doing pretty well myself, Captain--no complaints here." Especially as compared to how Agrias is doing.... "Basically just killing time here on the SDF while waiting for the trial to resume."
In the meantime, beneath the effusive and mildly intoxicated cheer, Misato continues listening to the various topics being traded back and forth. It's true, she is still relatively new to the Sheep, so she wants to be sure to get a handle on the various people and dealings that are taken care of by the squad. Some of the pilots, she's still only very passingly familiar with, after all.
"I am," Zonvolt replies. He nods his head to Agrias, before taking his glass of juice and having a sip. You see? A true samurai doesn't drink alcohol - he drinks /juice/. It makes his body stronger, his mind clearer, and his blade sharper. Or so Sanger would have you believe.
"We'll leave together, as soon as possible," the man says to Excellen. He nods his head. "He has been gone long enough." Then, a look back at Roy. He wants to know that piece of information himself! It may affect how much Kyosuke will get chewed out when the Chief finds him.
Roy frowns. "I haven't gotten the official bill yet, but after talking to the casion staff.. it's in the millions." And he's none too happy about that, either. "Right now they don't know it was a pair of Black Sheep, and I want them shepered in as quickly and quietly as possible. Sanger, if you want her on the Sheep, I can get Excellen the frequencies and access she needs.. but it's ultimately up to her."
Then Roy blanks for a moment, and turns to Agrias. "Wait, you mean.. Ivalice is helping?" he asks in confusion. "This isn't to get your head on a pike, is it?"
"Do it," Sanger replies to Roy. He gives a nod of his head. "I would rather have her with the others. Especially to prepare in case I am not around." Why wouldn't he be around? It couldn't be increasing doubts about whether the Black Sheep have faced nemeses that will shape them to be ready for the great threat of the Space Monsters, could it?
No. Probably just paperwork. Carry on!
Alcohol may certainly dull the senses, but after the last few days she's had, Agrias Oaks would be grateful for any help the wine can lend. She takes another sip, golden eyes lingering on the others.
She's naturally quiet, never one to lend her opinion or comments unless necessary. They call to her directly, though, and she affords Excellen a taut and humorless smile. "I trust you would call your superior officer by his proper rank. Commander Fokker, is it? Aye?" Her eyes are hard, for just a moment, before turning back to the assembled company. Grrrr.
"Good." This, and a tired smile, for Misato. "At least somebody around here is, in fact, having a better day than many I have met with today. Including myself." Another sip of wine, and she's feeling a little less overwhelmed by the day's stresses. Lovely grapes. "Aye, it sounds like many of us are waiting for the trial to resume."
"Ah?" She glances back over to Roy, giving a nod. One hand rises to brush her hair from her face, and her expression twists into another wry smile; bitterness in the hard angles. "Let us say that it was a mutual exchange of goods. The IPA will offer aid to the Kingdom of Ivalice. In exchange, I will not be introduced to whomsoever King Hyral is keeping as a headsman these days." She shakes her head. "I cannot say I trust the man, though. He is not of Atkascha blood. He is common-born. And while these are not necessarily derogatory... I will say that the circumstances by which he came into the throne are more than a bit suspicious."
"But no, it will not get me killed, if that is what you worry over." This time, her smile is predatory; dangerous. "And if it came to that, rest assured that I would take as many of the corrupt Glabados jackals to the grave with me as possible."
Another draught of wine. "But let us hope it does not come to that, yes? Ivalice is corrupt, but I sincerely hope it is not beyond saving. Someday, I would like to return there... when it is not my head on a pike for doing so, of course... but technically speaking, I do not think it is even feasible for Ivalice to contribute anything to the IPA. Her back is broken; two successive wars and threat of a third have trampled the peoples' spirits. And with good reason."
Put her off? Oh, Misato. Between yourself and Roy and all this alcohol, Excellen is already eager to find out exactly what it is life with the Black Sheep Squadron might involve. Although what would have been puppy dog eyes for the Boss turns into a quzzical look at the very idea of his 'not being around'. What?
...You're not giving her authority, are you? Because that's just a scary, scary idea.
"No objections here," the blonde interjects agreeably, before smiling beautifically at Agrias. Oooh ho, someone doesn't like flirting about, hmm? "I'm afraid he's not my superior officer yet~, but I'm sure the good Commander has nothing to worry about from me." She likes them tall, dark and handsome, see. Alas, Roy, you are but a flirt in the night~ But two outta three ain't too bad.
"..What kind of beer is that?" she finally enquires dubiously of Misato, running a finger along the rim of her now-empty glass. All gone.. Where's the rum?
Lots of rum. "...The millions?" echos Assault 2, eyes widening some. "I'm not sure I want to imagine how that happened--you did say a casino earlier, right?"
Apparently, someone's luck mojo doesn't work on betting odds. Or perhaps they worked too well?
There is a pained moment, as Misato finds herself with a mouthful of beer just entering her esophagus when 'millions' is said. She manages to swallow instead of spraying it everywhere, but it obviously costs her; eyes widen in distress for a moment before she wheezes quietly. "What...what's the process for approving a payment on that scale, Roy?" she says, once she's recovered. She knows all about filling out expense reports and fine payment processing.
She actually puts down the beercan for the moment, frowning at the thought of all that money. "That's...well. Damn." She sighs. "Anyway. Well, I'm sure karma will come back to bite me in the rear soon enough, Agrias," she says with a sardonic smile, shrugging slightly. "We all have our good days and bad days. I'm sure things will turn up for you again. Just...be careful in Ivalice." She rather likes the Holy Knight, and also knows that anything happening to her will affect Roy rather badly, and that's not something she wants to be seeing anytime. "We'd rather not have you taking anyone at all to the grave if it can be helped."
What a mess, Ivalice. Misato knows that the world of Tokyo-3 is messed up, but this kingdom has some very special issues of its own. The political intrigue there makes her head spin. "Eh? Oh, this? This is Heineken, from the Netherlands of Roy's world, I assume. We have it in my world too, though the Netherlands got swallowed up by the rising ocean years ago. It's pretty good--not my favorite, but very drinkable." She plucks a fresh can from the refridgerator and slides it over Excellen, if she should want one.
"Done." Roy says to Sanger. The pilot partially understands exactly where the training officer is coming from. As he looks over at Agrias, the pilot smirks. "She's not as bad as Ranpha, hon." the Commander points out. "..and that is a fair exchange, I suppose." he admits to her. He doesn't like it, though.
"Ivalice... it sounds like a troubled country," Sanger says. There is a frown there, but he says little else; he cannot do much there. The Sheep, after all, can't do much in that country in his mind - they are a little too obvious for the subtlties of politics. He doesn't even like dealing with subtlties.
If he had to deal with Ivalice, he would just find evil and cut it. And that might be a lot of cutting.
He glances at Excellen, then, and sighs. "I knew his luck was good. Perhaps... he decided to put that luck to the test. Perhaps it was too good for the casino to believe."
Then, he looks back at Roy. The samurai nods. "Thank you."
Agrias glances over as the female of the two Majors manages to choke on her beer for a moment. She seems about ready to ask if she's okay, but Misato recovers her composure quickly enough. Then again, if Agrias found herself having to foot the bill for a payment like that... she'd choke, too.
Despite the utter mess that is her homeworld, the Holy Knight seems relatively unconcerned, beyond a political standpoint. And the fact that having to deal with them means potential messy, bloody death.
"Troubled?" The laugh that she gives can almost be described as a cackle, and she has to put her wine down for a moment. "You have no idea. That is a rather mild word to use for Ivalice. The kingdom has been in war for the past fifty-five years. What little remains of the kingdom is in threat of being overwhelmed by a third conflict, this time over which of two dominant organizations controls the land the Gate is located in. A ruined temple, as fate would have it."
She shakes her head. "I have more or less given up on it. I will treat with them, on behalf of the IPA. I will do what is needed to restore the country; that is my duty, as knight and as Holy Knight. But I have given up hope of ever returning to what was once my home. It is here, now, with Roy. That is reality. And that is where I want to be, at this point. What have I to return to, anyway?" She takes another sip of wine, shrugging. "Ash? No. I will take this life, here; it is a gift the likes of which I never imagined receiving. I would be a fool to scorn it."
She snorts at Roy, scowling, though there's a certain measure of mirth to it. "Well, so long as she knows what she cannot have." She then tosses a half-salute to Excellen. "I jest, lass; be welcome. I mean no harm." She even grins. Maybe she did need that wine. "Welcome to the IPA. Aye, the good commander ought not to worry about you... he knows he is taken, aye; Roy?" This, with a pointed tug on the Commander's sleeve. Heh, heh.
Roy Fokker finishes a synch up. "Ladies and gentlemen of the Sheep, welcome Lieutenant Excellen Browning."
Roy Fokker says, "Callsign.. Flirtini."
Christina MacKenzie pauses, "Hello."
Rook Bartley sound of mechanical monkeying around. Sound of wrench clanging to the ground. "OW DAMMIT." Pause. "...Hey! Welcome to the Sheep! Flirtini, heheheh."
Ruri Hoshino, bored. "Hello."
Roy Fokker says, "Oh, Christina."
Roy Fokker says, "She's your next door neighbor."
Excellen Browning says, "...Flirtini?"
Misato Katsuragi says, "Ahh, now you're in. Welcome, Excellen."
Christina MacKenzie says, "Oh really?"
Excellen Browning says, "I /like/ it~ *sip* Hi, folks!"
Roy Fokker says, "I name all the Sheep after drinks, Excellen."
Ilyse Amsel says, "'sup."
Toji Suzuhara says, "The commander likes his booze, y'see. But we don't hold it against him, he's still cool."
Roy Fokker says, "I wanted to be a long hard screw against the wall, but it didn't fit."
Molly snickers. "Welcome to the club, Excellen."
Excellen Browning says, "That's a bit of a mouthful too, Commander Handsome. Flirtini suits me just fine~"
Roy Fokker says, "Hey, I like them with a mouthful."
It seems she has a lot of reading to catch up on. Excellen regards the talk of Ivalice with polite interest, but since it appears to be a command-level matter, there's not much she can say. Or do, for that matter. She might pilot the 'White Knight' of the ATX team's personal troopers, but the blonde isn't likely to be galloping along on any chargers any time soon.
The ATX team as a whole are about as subtle as the Colossal Blade, after all. Gaze softens a bit, and there's a faint whistle from the lieutenant as the can slid over by Misato is caught in hand. "Kyosuke likes testing his luck, Boss," she shakes her head a bit, before fiddling with the bottle. "But it isn't like him to not report in." Unless he became less of a stickler for following orders in the time he's been with the Sheep?
It's not an American beer, which automatically makes it 'drinkable' in her book. "Thanks, Major M," trills Excellen, before taking a chug. Then gives her can a long look. "..Wow, that's.. Not bad. Not bad at all~!" CHUG.
Let it not be said she's easy going in ranking company. "Hmmm, I like a challenge, Ma'am, but even Kyosuke wouldn't play those sorts of odds," she giggles, saluting Agrias with the can before taking another swig. No hard feelings at all.
Ilyse Amsel says, "So I've noticed. Anyway, hi, I'm Ilyse Amsel. No title, I'm not in the military."
Roy Fokker says, "Her rank is Bavarian Goasshalbe, though,"
Roy Fokker says, "Someday, try to drink your way through the callsigns."
Rook Bartley snickers. "Tequila Sunrise, here. Or, if you prefer, Rook. Rook Bartley. I don't really have any military ranks, seems how I'm part of a scattered gurreilla fighting force on what's left of Planet Earth." This, all delivered quite cheerfully. "...Well, not Uncle Drinky's Earth, anyway. There's a gap of about thirty-something years, there, if my estimates are right."
Sanger is convinced that Kyosuke hasn't changed in /that/ regard. The man shakes his head, and then looks once at Excellen. "No, it is not. We will find him. Unfortunately..."
He finishes his juice off, and then looks at the rest. "I have a training course to attend to. Enjoy your rest and relaxation, everyone," the man says. He nods to them. "Major Katsuragi, if she needs assistance getting settled in, I trust that you'll see to it."
After all, Misato seems enough like her!
"Farewell, everyone." Why can't he say see you later like a normal person? The samurai nods, before brushing his hair back. The man turns on a foot, then, and starts off!
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't even know what a Bavarian Goasshalbe is. I tried to look it up."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Normally I just drink, you know, beer."
"See you later, Boss~!" There's a proper salute for Sanger. Because. He IS the Boss. Even if Roy is now technically going to be Excellen's commanding officer now.
Rei Ayanami says, "Rei Ayanami. Designated pilot of Evangelion Unit Zero."
Rei Ayanami says, a moment later, "'White Lady.'"
Roy Fokker says, "It's beer mixed with Cola, Ilyse."
Toji Suzuhara says, "Toji Suzuhara, Evangelion Three. We don't get ranks either."
Ilyse Amsel says, "That's weird, I should try it."
Roy Fokker says, "Toji is Black Fog."
Toji Suzuhara says, "We do get those awesome plastic ID cards though."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't get those either."
Excellen Browning says, "Well, I guess I'd better introduce myself too, huh? Second Lieutenant Excellen Browning of the EFA, ATX Team, and, I guess formerly 'Assault-2'? Pleasure to meet you all~!"
Toji Suzuhara sound of something whizzing past the mike. "I bet you could seriously injure someone with this thing if you had a mind to."
Roy Fokker says, "Yes, I think Misato scratched out some of the info on hers!"
Ilyse Amsel says, "Oh, I pilot the Wildcard. It's the one with the nifty colours that looks handmade."
Molly says, "Oh, I'm Molly! I pilot the Whizzing Arrow III, callsign Rabbit's Revenge. Good to meet you!"
Misato fires off what is a remarkably snappy salute for someone who's put away as much beer as she has. "Absolutely, Sanger. I'll take care of her like she were one of my own." She pauses a moment. "I suppose she is, actually, now that she's one of the Sheep." Grin. "Go and take care of your training course, we'll lock up after ourselves."
She turns a little in her seat and nods approvingly at Excellen. "You know how to put away beer too. We're going to get along great." She once more raises her drink in a toast and chugs. "In the meantime, I suppose I should read up on Mister Nanbu's record. He's not usually a troublemaker, is he?"
Misato Katsuragi says, "Eh, what, Roy?"
Christina MacKenzie says, "Lieutenant Christina MacKenzie, Earth Federation, pilot of the Gundam "Alex"."
Ruri Hoshino says, "Ruri Hoshino, Chief Science Officer of the battleship ND-001 Nadesico. Callsign Pina Colada."
Roy Fokker says, "For the record, I'm Commander Roy Fokker, pilot of the VF-1S Veritech Valkyrie, designation 'Skull One or Skull Leader', callsign Whiskey Sour."
Roy Fokker says, "Or as the Crusaders call me, That $@@@er."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I thought you wanted that title."
Christina MacKenzie says, "...oh, and...Louisville Slugger."
Misato Katsuragi says, "Roy! There's children on the channel."
Roy Fokker says, "Do you hear me complaining, Ilyse?"
Molly says, "Children who pilot giant death machines, ahem."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't care if he says it, people at school say worse anyway."
Molly whistles.
Misato Katsuragi says, "Yeah, but still."
Roy Fokker says, "Molly, are you making out with your boyfriend again."
Toji Suzuhara says, "Yeah. C'mon, I punch giant space monsters in the face. Give me a little credit here."
Excellen Browning sips her drink again. "Hmmm, well, I can't leave out my Weissy!" Clears throat. "I pilot the PTX-007-03C 'Weissritter', currently parked next to the EFA's Hiryu Custom in one of the hangers here in the SDF1. ...Not sure which one, though."
Molly says, "Why, do I sound perkier than usual?"
Roy Fokker says, "Yeah."
Molly says, "Busted."
Ilyse Amsel says, "OK, look, I live in Detroit, I own a TV, I can hear all the bad language I want with and without it."
Rook Bartley says, "Oh, yeah. That beautiful red VAF-6 Alpha and the lovely VTR-038-LT Cyclone are mine. All mine. Touch 'em and I'll kill ya with a spanning wrench."
Roy Fokker says, "I'm so making you people tie a sock to your door knob to your room or something."
Rook Bartley says this all too cheerfully.
Excellen Browning pause. Mental rewind. "...Oooh, would people be up for that? Sounds like a great party drinking challenge~"
Roy Fokker says, "Rook is still learning how to fly the Alpha."
Roy Fokker says, "Ain't ya, Rookie?"
Rook Bartley audible grinding of teeth.
Roy Fokker fingersnaps. "That reminds me!"
Roy Fokker says, "Sanger?"
Roy Fokker says, "Can you take Rook out for some training, your way?"
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't like the sound of 'party drinking challenge' because I'm afraid I'll lose."
Molly says, "I, er, absolve myself of any responsibility for injuries caused by Rook going postal. She's a good roommate, but very territorial about her machines. So, heads up and hands off?"
Roy Fokker says, "Maybe she can go with you guys to gather the lost Sheep - since she's more interested in polishing her gear than using it."
Roy Fokker so neddling.
Molly says, "...no, not YOU! *click*"
Excellen Browning says, "...Oh wow. You sure about that? Boss is pretty, uh," beat, swig, "strict with training."
Rook Bartley says, "...I'ma kill you, Fokker."
Rook Bartley says, "And I'mma enjoy /every second of it/. Gimmie that damn mission; I'll prove I can do it and get it done better than you can with that old antique of yours!"
Roy Fokker has disconnected.
Ilyse Amsel says, "Meh, training."
Excellen Browning says, "OOC: ...Rook, you weren't meant to challenge him so hard he got knocked offline..! XD"
Christina MacKenzie says, "OOC: EXTREME CHALLENGING"
Molly says, "OOC: Rook is scary."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I never train and I do just fine!"
Excellen Browning says, "*chuckles* ..Don't ever say that around Kat."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Who?"
Excellen Browning clears her throat. Sounds far more amused than she should. "Second Lieutenant Katina Tarask, Octo-1 on the Hiryu Custom. She, uh.. She doesn't approve of people getting to pilot PTs without full training first."
Ilyse Amsel says, "What's she going to do, take it away from me? I built it."
Misato Katsuragi says, "Well, in the case of developmental craft, I'm sure you have to make exceptions. Especially personally developed hardware."
Excellen Browning starts giggling then. And sips her drink. "Nah, she just gets grouchy. She'll probably take it out on Russel and the rest of Octo Squad."
Ilyse Amsel says, "The Wildcard is as good or better than any of the mass-produced crap, /and/ it's way cooler. - Oh, uh, right."
Rook Bartley snorts. "Pfft. I have no qualifications, if you're talking about the military." Her tone of voice implies, 'if she has a problem, she can take it up with me, and I will tear her a new one.'
Ilyse Amsel says, "Qualifications suck! So does the military."
Vanilla H says, "Vacuums also suck. As well as some species of insect."
Misato Katsuragi says, "..."
Ilyse Amsel says, "No offense."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I meant the military at home."
Ilyse Amsel says, "They're not very good, they seem to want to arrest me half the time, AND they don't even have awesome robots."
Misato Katsuragi coughs. "Okay."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Mostly I'm just hoping they don't decide to bother my parents, but I think they've given up since I started spending more time out of plane."
WHAT: The Sheep Get a New Member, and she has a lot in common with the Commander!
WHEN: 14 April 2007
WHERE: Various Locations of the SDF-1
"I drink whiskey, lady." Roy says to Excellen as he brings the jeep to a halt outside the Black Sheep common area. "Beer is for pansies or babies." he smirks, turning off the engine, and climbing out to help take up Excellen's gear. "You'll be next door to Christina for now. Bernie's living with her at the moment, so don't mind the noise /too much/." he teases.
"Let's see.. the Sheep." the pilot considers for a moment. "When I first came through the Gates, there was very few of us that piloted mecha of any type. But there was a definite threat out there, and at the time, we were the fast deployers. I talked to the IPA and got permission to find like minded and equiped individuals to make a squadron. We answer to Havelock and Superman, but they only have command of us in the loosest sense of the word."
"Anyway, we have our own wars to fight, and I realize that. That's why I'm willing to be really flexible as far as that goes. We take care of each other across the board and Gates." Roy shrugs. "But if you need to take care of something personally, such as what Kyosuke is doing at the moment, I understand that and allow for such."
"Anyway, other than that, I believe that we're a team, and a family in a sense. We do things like organized sports, combat drills, and really try to behave as both a team and a unit, if that makes sense."
"..." There's a long pause at the mention off Roy's drink of choice. Then, Excellen reaches over to rest a hand on his arm briefly, expression dead serious and lashes fluttering. "I think, Commander Handsome, that we're going to get on -famously-." Mmmhmmmhmm.
Picking up her jacket, arms slide easily through the fabric before gloves are adjusted to rest sleeve cuffs comfortably at the wrist. She doesn't zip up, however, settling for smoothing out her collar before making to grab for her bag -- then leaves it be, since Roy's being quite the gentleman here. Brows do wiggle a bit at the mention of a potential 'noisy neighbour', but there's no comment; no problems for her, at any rate. "Sounds like quite the party! Must make for some hectic scheduling, having so many different units under your command, huh?" What he's saying makes a great deal of sense, especially with the sort of setup in play here. "Do you have more of these ships out there for that sort of thing? I didn't see any other PTs like the Alt stashed in the bay.."
There's a faint 'hmmm' in answer to his comment about Kyosuke, before the strawberry blonde bounds after him. "It'll probably take a few days for all the paperwork and transfer tape to get tied up," she admits after a moments thought.
"If you mean units that can work in multiple enviroments, then plenty. Actually your world's tech is not too far off of our own and that of the Gundam pilots like Amuro and Christina." Roy grins at the hand on his arm, and he winks. "I'm a pretty easy going Commander. I can bring the hammer if I need to, but I've been in enough wars to know that jumping up and down on heads don't work." he shrugs, absently wondering who would be madder - Ranpha or Agrias.
As he grabs the bag, he continues to answer the question, however. "Quite a few people have unique mecha. Mine is one of the few that's mass-produced, though I hear that style is quite common on your world as well." As he carries the bag to the quarters, he reaches into his pocket and pulls out an envelope with a map and a pass key. "You'll need these. If Sanger's right, this ship is larger than any you may have served on in the past. The restricted areas are marked, and the key pass won't let you into them."
"So, now that all the formalities are out of the way.. want to go down to the bar and grab a drink?" he asks with a wink.
"I saw a few of your own units. Really cute guy escorted us in, too," she sighs. Someone like Katina could never appreciate the finer points of enjoying the view, even if all she had to go on was the head-shot visual. Honestly, the girl was in dire need of a super robot to set her head on straight. And that's not the most immediate suggestion that springs to mind for Excellen regarding the rabid blonde.
"I noticed a few similarities.. Huh. So, you've got gespensts of your own?" Surely nothing like her Weissy, though. Girl's got to have some pride. Navigating the area set aside for the Sheep doesn't appear half as troublesome as learning the entirety of the ship, and the offered map and keycard are accepted gracefully. The map is partially unfolded, then refolded and stuffed in a jacket pocket. "I don't think we've anything quite this back home," the Moon and Earth Cradles certainly wouldn't count, "but I'm sure someone would be happy to help me find my way back here."
Excellen has a better sense of direction than Masaki, after all.
Technically, the formalities will be over once she's checked in with Sanger, but.. "I thought you'd never ask!" Teeth flash, and keycard is slid into an inside jacket pocket. "Since you know where the booze is.. After you!"
"Oh, I'm sure." Roy responds with a shake of his head and a chuckle. After she's settled her bags inside, the pilot starts to lead the way to the bar. "Ah, that was Lieutenant Sterling. He used to be a Sheep but decided to return back to the Skull Squadron after the last big offensive."
The 'bar' of the Black Sheep was supposed to be a small meeting room, but since Roy believe in a more open atmosphere, he had a jukebox moved in, a bar placed in, and there's enough room for most of the Sheep to fit comfortably. There's a card table and a dart board set up.. with pictures of what is listed on the screen as 'The Divine Crusaders'.
Guess who?
By the looks of things (notably, the stacks of empty bottles and cans), Misato's been here quite a while, along with Sanger. With the trial recessed, she's had to find something to do, after all, and so long as she has to stay on the SDF, well.... She finishes draining her can of beer and slams it down on the countertop. "Ahh!" The red tinge on her cheeks is evident, adding to the testimony that she's been working on it for quite a bit.
In an instant, another can is snatched up and popped open, and she is about to start chugging again. However, out of the corner of her eye, she spots some familiar faces closing in. "Hey, Commander! You should have let me known you had a stash of booze like this for the Sheep. I'd have joined that much sooner!" And the thing is...she's probably not kidding. Don't worry, she'll contribute to the bar fund soon enough to make sure it's well stocked for the future. "Who's your new friend?" A slight leer added now. "Does Lady Oaks know?" Eyebrow waggle. Though she knows that Roy, for all his flirting and such, is really quite a faithful guy.
Sanger Zonvolt is in a bar. Truly, death has gripped the world in its cold, icy fingers.
The white-haired man is not drinking, however. Excellen's boss is sitting at a table, opposite a woman, with a glass of juice in his hand. He takes a long sip of it. His back might be to Excellen and Roy as they enter, but missing him would be hard - his white hair, tall build, and heavy red coat are hard to not notice. His samurai sword gives it away.
"Are you /certain/ you aren't drinking too much, Major Katsuragi?" he asks of the woman sitting across from her. Then, he turns to regard the newcomers. He blinks, upon recognizing both of them - and one he didn't expect.
"Lieutenant Browning," he says. "I hadn't expected your arrival."
"Ah, Misato, you know I'm saving the torrid affair for you." Roy says with a wink. As he goes over to the autodispenser, he yanks out a pair of whiskeys, unbuttoning his formal jacket as he does so. "Evening, Sanger. I found her while I was coming off duty. One of yours, I think?" he asks with a smirk. "She wasn't wearing a collar or anything." Handing Excellen one of the shots of whiskey, he goes to sit with the others.
"Any news on Kyosuke?" he asks Sanger. "Because if you don't, I do." the pilot offers, seeming none too happy about the idea.
Speak of the devil, and he will appear. Fortunately, Agrias Oaks is no devil, no matter how much young and unattached females of Macross City may resent her relationship with their beloved ace pilot.
Actually, she's looking fairly normal; almost casual. Boots, jeans, a dark long-sleeve shirt tucked into them. Brown leather belt. One of those leather jackets like the Black Sheep Squadron has. Bomber. Surplus. Instead the patch is the Vanguard Detachment's winged sword. Ever-present black ebon cane.
She brushes knuckles against the doorway in what might be a knock, if the ambient sound of the place didn't swallow the sound. Golden eyes scan the crowd. He isn't hard to find. Ah... there.
She stares him down long enough for inevitable eye contact. Signal his attention. He can come when he isn't busy. And with that, she makes her way over to the bar, not too far from Sanger and Misato. She doesn't speak to them, though, instead ordering ehrself something. Wine. She takes her glass and seats herself at the counter, leaning her cane against her stiff right leg.
Bag ditched and room (and neighbours!) left to be investigated later, the strawberry blonde is certainly keen to learn the location of the most important room on the ship!
..Now this IS homey, isn't it? The dart board and its variety of targets will get a good look-in later, but it's the two occupants seated at the table who catch Excellen's eye; a brow lifts curiously at Misato, before a grin is given Roy's back. Darn, spoken for are we? Tsk, tsk, getting a girl's hopes up like that~. And oh, hey, here's the Boss.
...
...Waitwaitwait. Hand comes up in a salute to Sanger, one blue eye winking cheekily. "Assault-2, checking in as ordered by the EFA, sir~" You weren't expecting her? Odd. "The Hiryu Custom was requested to deliver some aid for Commander Handsome's ship here, and they dcided to deliver me, too! ..Bullet got held back due to technical issues with the T-Link system and that new unit Mao Industries is breaking out."
And then there's a shot of whiskey in her hands.
Bonus life! "Thank you," Excellen doesn't quite crow, savouring a sip from her glass before bouncing towards one of the couches lining this table; Agrias' entrance hasn't been noted yet, as the pilot is busy saluting Misato with her glass. "Second Lieutenant Excellen Browning, ATX Team. And you are~?"
Then gaze shifts back to Fokker at the keyword. And then a half-pout over her glass at Sanger. You never let /me/ go gambling, Boss.
"Pfft, Major Sanger, this is nothing," Misato insists, now taking a hearty swig. "You should have seen the last weekend bender I was on, we must have destroyed two bars' worth of alcohol...." Nevertheless, she is at least pausing between drinks, perhaps to allow for more conversation. "Oh, stop it, Roy," she says with a snort and a grin, reaching out to whack his arm as he goes past.
Sensing the conversation taking a slight turn for the serious, she straightens up a little bit. "What's going on with Kyosuke? Nothing too bad, I hope?" She pauses, nods to Excellen. "I'm Major Misato Katsuragi of the NERV member group, on the command staff for the Black Sheep." Adding in a salute, she smiles. "Welcome to the Squadron, Lieutenant."
Ahh, and there she is. "Evening, Dame Oaks," she calls to Agrias and offering a friendly wave. She decides against trying to wave the Vanguard captain over, though; if Agrias wants to join them, then she'd go ahead and do that herself.
"I believe he has been in training," Sanger replies to Roy. He gives him a nod, before he turns his head and looks at Excellen. Is it any surprise? Sanger expects his team to train a great deal. He gives her a salute. "I see. Good work, Assault-2. And a shame about Lieutenant Luckfield... nonetheless."
He frowns at the shot of whiskey. "Good to have you with us." Then, he looks at Misato and sighs. "I suppose..."
It's just because he has the tolerance of a twelve year-old!
See, Misato, you don't need Rei to summon the devil. She's right here.. oh wait. Roy gives Sanger a look. "You didn't see the news report or the bill I got, did you?" the Commander asks, "The casion decided since they knew who it was, they'd send me the bill. But what's with the girl he's traveling with. Lamia?" it's the first he's heard of her.
The pilot takes the shot of whiskey, then rises. "Beg pardon." Going over to the dispenser, he presses a few buttons until he has a glass of red wine. Which he carries over to Agrias. "Good evening, m'lady. A spot of wine to help calm you after a /really/ long day?"
"It's a pleasure," purrs the slinky blonde, one leg folding over the other as she takes another sip of whiskey. WooHOO, now this is good stuff. Perhaps she should drop a note to XO Sean, /he'd/ appreciate a decent drink.
Command staff, huh? There's a smirk at the exchange between the dark haired woman and Roy, before her head shakes slightly. "Ah, but I'm not part of the Squadron.." There's an unspoken 'yet' tacked on there. Primarily because she's been assigned to the Gungrust's pilot's command and not the IPA's. She'll go where he tells her to, like as not. "Commander Handsome here is graciously loaning me a room till the paperwork's settled. It'll be up to Boss after that."
Neck cranes then, looking across to this Oaks lady Misato just pointed out by her greeting. Ooho~! What's this? Glancing speculatively between the Vanguard's Captain and the Sheep commander...Excellen opts to turn her attention to the drink instead. And talk of Kyosuke, of course. Which is why her expression is briefly serious. "Commander Fokker said he'd been MIA..? But the Alt's parked in the hanger." She set down the Weissritter right next door, after all. And *who is* this mysterious 'Lamia' person? If Excellen were the type, she might even feel a little jealous.
The Captain of the Vanguard Detachment is known for a certain aloofness. Most assume it's just her nature, haughty or detached... but really, she's just shy. It's a little-known fact.
Agrias blinks as a glass of red is suddenly held before her, and there's Roy, standing there with his mock courtesies. She gives a dry chuckle, accepting it with a nod. "You have no idea."
"Not entirely unpleasant, but long. Yesterday I met with the newest recruit. Colette Brunel. Sweet girl, and eager to prove herself. Capable. I have a good feeling about her. Her file makes little sense to me, though. I will have to read it again. And let us not begin to... ah, that reminds me."
"Ivalice has agreed to accept assistance from the IPA." Her expression darkens, though. "Granted, it took a certain measure of grovelling before His Majesty--" The inflection on the title seems a mockery more than anything else, "--before he would acknowledge the offer. He is bitter... perhaps he blames me for surviving, where Sir Beoulve did not."
She gives a snort, taking a sip of wine. "I do not care. My intention is to rebuild the kingdom, free of the shackles of war... we shall see. In the meantime, I have duties here to see to."
Eh?
She glances over, as though finally noticing the others whom she'd chosen a spot near. "Ah. Hello, Major Katsuragi. Major Zonvolt." She spares them a tired smile and a listless salute. "My apologies. I did not see you there."
Agrias casts a brief glance over to Excellen, the unknown. That's about when Excellen glances down into her own drink; shrugging, Agrias merely turns her attention back to Roy.
"Lamia? I do not know - on either grounds." Sanger frowns with this bit of information. Clearly, he needs to find Nanbu and have a word with him quickly; he hadn't heard about this situation. He sits up a little straighter, looking back at Excellen. She would ordinarily know.
"It seems we will have to find him, Lieutenant. I do not doubt that the Black Sheep... will assist in this matter." His eyes turn left and right, looking at Roy and Misato for a moment. "That he left without the Alteisen surprises me, as well."
Then, he looks at Agrias. He blinks, then nods. "Captain Oaks. You are well?"
Misato's eyes crinkle a moment. "What, non-Squadron members are allowed in here? You were holding out on me, Roy!" But the mock-anger dissolves pretty quickly, and she chuckles and shakes her head, taking another drink of her beer. "Well, welcome anyway, Excellen. I'm sure you'll find a good spot with us in whatever group you might end up in. We can always use another good soldier."
To Agrias, Misato just waves off the apology. "Quite all right, Dame Oaks; I know that look on your face. I've had the same kind of day before. Just relax and take it easy." And, she thinks to herself, Agrias is probably pretty well and truly fed up with a number of things. She knows that the knight's homeland is going through some pretty rough political times. She grimaces, imagining how well she herself would hold up under that sort of a trial.
"Things to attend to here?" Roy asks in some confusion, pressing a kiss against her cheek before he sits down next to her, and grabs a fresh whiskey. "I didn't want you drinking me out of stock, lock and barrel, Misato!" the Commander shoots back at the woman before he smirks.
Sanger regrabs his attention, however. "Of course. We're a team, Sanger. As I was explaining to Excellen." the Commander of the Sheep explains. "If you need help tracking down Kyosuke and his friend, I'll spare what resources we can. Especially since he mentioned a vehicle with a Tesla drive." Roy shrugs. "Ah. Excellen Browning, this is Misato Katsuragi, my operations officer.. and this is Lady Agrias Oaks, Captain of the Vanguard Detachment, my fiancee, and a whole lot of other titles that if you get me drunk enough I can recite by heart. Oh, and conquerer of hedge mazes."
Not only going through the threat of a war that would tear it apart, but she -- in order to treat with the king, politically -- must sneak incognito from the Gate to the Imperial Palace. What a mess.
"Thank you. I believe taking it easy is about all I have left to do, at this point." As for herself, Agrias just gives a slightly strained-looking smile. "Anything else rests on His Majesty, and I do not have the power or the influence to sway his mind or speed his thinking. Things are... strained, betwee us, and I am fortunate he does not have me seized as a heretic and a criminal. Negotiations are difficult, at best."
She takes several sips of wine. "Eh," she sighs, dismissively. One hand waves a bit. "There is little to be done about it. Aye, Major Zonvolt, I am well; thank you for asking." She takes a sip of wine. "How are you, Majors? I trust you are well? And you, Commander Fokker?" There's a certain mirth when she returns his overt courtesy with her own. "I trust you, too, are w--"
The knight reaches up and covers her face with a hand, for a moment, groaning. "Honestly, Roy. I'd almost forgotten about the hedge maze incident." The hand lowers, and Agrias twists, giving an abbreviated bow to the indicated newcomer. "However, it is a pleasure to meet you." Her mouth twists in a wry smile. "Aye, as Roy says, there are a number of other titles I have been associated with. Unnecessary, for the most part, and largely former. All you need know is that I am Captain of the Vanguard Detachment. It is an honour."
Excellen is, unfortunately, also at a loss. However, she WAS assigned to a space ship attached to a moon base for the past few months. It's a little difficult to get a postcard in space. Let alone get Kyosuke to write regularly. And for the record, you both write exceedingly boring reports. Whatever happened to play by play, blow by blow accounts of your battles?!
This is, primarily, the reason Excellen is not given the task of writing up reports. Fear of embellishment.
There's a broad grin for Misato, and glass extends across the table to 'clink' obligingly in toast, should the Major care to indulge. "I'll drink to that," she winks, before chugging back her drink and clapping the glass back onto the table.
And gives Sanger a sharp nod. "Aye, aye, Boss." She'll certainly be up for seeking out Assault-4. It can't have been a training mission if the Alt's still here -- unless he took the Wildrauptier..? Although, she does have to wonder.. "How bad -was- the bill anyway, Commander Handsome?" She doesn't seem at all bothered about calling him that in front of Agrias, who she turns about in her seat to get a better look at.
An honour..? There's a two-fingered salute for the Vanguard's leader, but Excellen can't help but chuckle. "I think that's the first time anyone's said that to me," and meant it honestly, for which she can't help but be a little grateful. "Still, it's nice to meet you, ma'am."
Misato cackles. "Yeah, well, now that I know this place is here, it's too late!" She whoops and drains the rest of her beer, slamming it down and popping open yet another one. This is what the weekend is for: boozing with friends. Delightful, isn't it?
Quickly, though, she settles back down a bit--don't want to scare off new recruits after all. She nods as Roy describes her position in a little more detail. "I've known Roy for a while--ever since NERV joined the IPA a couple years ago, more or less--but I'm relatively new to the Squadron itself." She raises her beercan in a sort of toast to Agrias--and then redirected to clink against Excellen's proffered glass. "Cheers!" Chug! "Well, I'm doing pretty well myself, Captain--no complaints here." Especially as compared to how Agrias is doing.... "Basically just killing time here on the SDF while waiting for the trial to resume."
In the meantime, beneath the effusive and mildly intoxicated cheer, Misato continues listening to the various topics being traded back and forth. It's true, she is still relatively new to the Sheep, so she wants to be sure to get a handle on the various people and dealings that are taken care of by the squad. Some of the pilots, she's still only very passingly familiar with, after all.
"I am," Zonvolt replies. He nods his head to Agrias, before taking his glass of juice and having a sip. You see? A true samurai doesn't drink alcohol - he drinks /juice/. It makes his body stronger, his mind clearer, and his blade sharper. Or so Sanger would have you believe.
"We'll leave together, as soon as possible," the man says to Excellen. He nods his head. "He has been gone long enough." Then, a look back at Roy. He wants to know that piece of information himself! It may affect how much Kyosuke will get chewed out when the Chief finds him.
Roy frowns. "I haven't gotten the official bill yet, but after talking to the casion staff.. it's in the millions." And he's none too happy about that, either. "Right now they don't know it was a pair of Black Sheep, and I want them shepered in as quickly and quietly as possible. Sanger, if you want her on the Sheep, I can get Excellen the frequencies and access she needs.. but it's ultimately up to her."
Then Roy blanks for a moment, and turns to Agrias. "Wait, you mean.. Ivalice is helping?" he asks in confusion. "This isn't to get your head on a pike, is it?"
"Do it," Sanger replies to Roy. He gives a nod of his head. "I would rather have her with the others. Especially to prepare in case I am not around." Why wouldn't he be around? It couldn't be increasing doubts about whether the Black Sheep have faced nemeses that will shape them to be ready for the great threat of the Space Monsters, could it?
No. Probably just paperwork. Carry on!
Alcohol may certainly dull the senses, but after the last few days she's had, Agrias Oaks would be grateful for any help the wine can lend. She takes another sip, golden eyes lingering on the others.
She's naturally quiet, never one to lend her opinion or comments unless necessary. They call to her directly, though, and she affords Excellen a taut and humorless smile. "I trust you would call your superior officer by his proper rank. Commander Fokker, is it? Aye?" Her eyes are hard, for just a moment, before turning back to the assembled company. Grrrr.
"Good." This, and a tired smile, for Misato. "At least somebody around here is, in fact, having a better day than many I have met with today. Including myself." Another sip of wine, and she's feeling a little less overwhelmed by the day's stresses. Lovely grapes. "Aye, it sounds like many of us are waiting for the trial to resume."
"Ah?" She glances back over to Roy, giving a nod. One hand rises to brush her hair from her face, and her expression twists into another wry smile; bitterness in the hard angles. "Let us say that it was a mutual exchange of goods. The IPA will offer aid to the Kingdom of Ivalice. In exchange, I will not be introduced to whomsoever King Hyral is keeping as a headsman these days." She shakes her head. "I cannot say I trust the man, though. He is not of Atkascha blood. He is common-born. And while these are not necessarily derogatory... I will say that the circumstances by which he came into the throne are more than a bit suspicious."
"But no, it will not get me killed, if that is what you worry over." This time, her smile is predatory; dangerous. "And if it came to that, rest assured that I would take as many of the corrupt Glabados jackals to the grave with me as possible."
Another draught of wine. "But let us hope it does not come to that, yes? Ivalice is corrupt, but I sincerely hope it is not beyond saving. Someday, I would like to return there... when it is not my head on a pike for doing so, of course... but technically speaking, I do not think it is even feasible for Ivalice to contribute anything to the IPA. Her back is broken; two successive wars and threat of a third have trampled the peoples' spirits. And with good reason."
Put her off? Oh, Misato. Between yourself and Roy and all this alcohol, Excellen is already eager to find out exactly what it is life with the Black Sheep Squadron might involve. Although what would have been puppy dog eyes for the Boss turns into a quzzical look at the very idea of his 'not being around'. What?
...You're not giving her authority, are you? Because that's just a scary, scary idea.
"No objections here," the blonde interjects agreeably, before smiling beautifically at Agrias. Oooh ho, someone doesn't like flirting about, hmm? "I'm afraid he's not my superior officer yet~, but I'm sure the good Commander has nothing to worry about from me." She likes them tall, dark and handsome, see. Alas, Roy, you are but a flirt in the night~ But two outta three ain't too bad.
"..What kind of beer is that?" she finally enquires dubiously of Misato, running a finger along the rim of her now-empty glass. All gone.. Where's the rum?
Lots of rum. "...The millions?" echos Assault 2, eyes widening some. "I'm not sure I want to imagine how that happened--you did say a casino earlier, right?"
Apparently, someone's luck mojo doesn't work on betting odds. Or perhaps they worked too well?
There is a pained moment, as Misato finds herself with a mouthful of beer just entering her esophagus when 'millions' is said. She manages to swallow instead of spraying it everywhere, but it obviously costs her; eyes widen in distress for a moment before she wheezes quietly. "What...what's the process for approving a payment on that scale, Roy?" she says, once she's recovered. She knows all about filling out expense reports and fine payment processing.
She actually puts down the beercan for the moment, frowning at the thought of all that money. "That's...well. Damn." She sighs. "Anyway. Well, I'm sure karma will come back to bite me in the rear soon enough, Agrias," she says with a sardonic smile, shrugging slightly. "We all have our good days and bad days. I'm sure things will turn up for you again. Just...be careful in Ivalice." She rather likes the Holy Knight, and also knows that anything happening to her will affect Roy rather badly, and that's not something she wants to be seeing anytime. "We'd rather not have you taking anyone at all to the grave if it can be helped."
What a mess, Ivalice. Misato knows that the world of Tokyo-3 is messed up, but this kingdom has some very special issues of its own. The political intrigue there makes her head spin. "Eh? Oh, this? This is Heineken, from the Netherlands of Roy's world, I assume. We have it in my world too, though the Netherlands got swallowed up by the rising ocean years ago. It's pretty good--not my favorite, but very drinkable." She plucks a fresh can from the refridgerator and slides it over Excellen, if she should want one.
"Done." Roy says to Sanger. The pilot partially understands exactly where the training officer is coming from. As he looks over at Agrias, the pilot smirks. "She's not as bad as Ranpha, hon." the Commander points out. "..and that is a fair exchange, I suppose." he admits to her. He doesn't like it, though.
"Ivalice... it sounds like a troubled country," Sanger says. There is a frown there, but he says little else; he cannot do much there. The Sheep, after all, can't do much in that country in his mind - they are a little too obvious for the subtlties of politics. He doesn't even like dealing with subtlties.
If he had to deal with Ivalice, he would just find evil and cut it. And that might be a lot of cutting.
He glances at Excellen, then, and sighs. "I knew his luck was good. Perhaps... he decided to put that luck to the test. Perhaps it was too good for the casino to believe."
Then, he looks back at Roy. The samurai nods. "Thank you."
Agrias glances over as the female of the two Majors manages to choke on her beer for a moment. She seems about ready to ask if she's okay, but Misato recovers her composure quickly enough. Then again, if Agrias found herself having to foot the bill for a payment like that... she'd choke, too.
Despite the utter mess that is her homeworld, the Holy Knight seems relatively unconcerned, beyond a political standpoint. And the fact that having to deal with them means potential messy, bloody death.
"Troubled?" The laugh that she gives can almost be described as a cackle, and she has to put her wine down for a moment. "You have no idea. That is a rather mild word to use for Ivalice. The kingdom has been in war for the past fifty-five years. What little remains of the kingdom is in threat of being overwhelmed by a third conflict, this time over which of two dominant organizations controls the land the Gate is located in. A ruined temple, as fate would have it."
She shakes her head. "I have more or less given up on it. I will treat with them, on behalf of the IPA. I will do what is needed to restore the country; that is my duty, as knight and as Holy Knight. But I have given up hope of ever returning to what was once my home. It is here, now, with Roy. That is reality. And that is where I want to be, at this point. What have I to return to, anyway?" She takes another sip of wine, shrugging. "Ash? No. I will take this life, here; it is a gift the likes of which I never imagined receiving. I would be a fool to scorn it."
She snorts at Roy, scowling, though there's a certain measure of mirth to it. "Well, so long as she knows what she cannot have." She then tosses a half-salute to Excellen. "I jest, lass; be welcome. I mean no harm." She even grins. Maybe she did need that wine. "Welcome to the IPA. Aye, the good commander ought not to worry about you... he knows he is taken, aye; Roy?" This, with a pointed tug on the Commander's sleeve. Heh, heh.
Roy Fokker finishes a synch up. "Ladies and gentlemen of the Sheep, welcome Lieutenant Excellen Browning."
Roy Fokker says, "Callsign.. Flirtini."
Christina MacKenzie pauses, "Hello."
Rook Bartley sound of mechanical monkeying around. Sound of wrench clanging to the ground. "OW DAMMIT." Pause. "...Hey! Welcome to the Sheep! Flirtini, heheheh."
Ruri Hoshino, bored. "Hello."
Roy Fokker says, "Oh, Christina."
Roy Fokker says, "She's your next door neighbor."
Excellen Browning says, "...Flirtini?"
Misato Katsuragi says, "Ahh, now you're in. Welcome, Excellen."
Christina MacKenzie says, "Oh really?"
Excellen Browning says, "I /like/ it~ *sip* Hi, folks!"
Roy Fokker says, "I name all the Sheep after drinks, Excellen."
Ilyse Amsel says, "'sup."
Toji Suzuhara says, "The commander likes his booze, y'see. But we don't hold it against him, he's still cool."
Roy Fokker says, "I wanted to be a long hard screw against the wall, but it didn't fit."
Molly snickers. "Welcome to the club, Excellen."
Excellen Browning says, "That's a bit of a mouthful too, Commander Handsome. Flirtini suits me just fine~"
Roy Fokker says, "Hey, I like them with a mouthful."
It seems she has a lot of reading to catch up on. Excellen regards the talk of Ivalice with polite interest, but since it appears to be a command-level matter, there's not much she can say. Or do, for that matter. She might pilot the 'White Knight' of the ATX team's personal troopers, but the blonde isn't likely to be galloping along on any chargers any time soon.
The ATX team as a whole are about as subtle as the Colossal Blade, after all. Gaze softens a bit, and there's a faint whistle from the lieutenant as the can slid over by Misato is caught in hand. "Kyosuke likes testing his luck, Boss," she shakes her head a bit, before fiddling with the bottle. "But it isn't like him to not report in." Unless he became less of a stickler for following orders in the time he's been with the Sheep?
It's not an American beer, which automatically makes it 'drinkable' in her book. "Thanks, Major M," trills Excellen, before taking a chug. Then gives her can a long look. "..Wow, that's.. Not bad. Not bad at all~!" CHUG.
Let it not be said she's easy going in ranking company. "Hmmm, I like a challenge, Ma'am, but even Kyosuke wouldn't play those sorts of odds," she giggles, saluting Agrias with the can before taking another swig. No hard feelings at all.
Ilyse Amsel says, "So I've noticed. Anyway, hi, I'm Ilyse Amsel. No title, I'm not in the military."
Roy Fokker says, "Her rank is Bavarian Goasshalbe, though,"
Roy Fokker says, "Someday, try to drink your way through the callsigns."
Rook Bartley snickers. "Tequila Sunrise, here. Or, if you prefer, Rook. Rook Bartley. I don't really have any military ranks, seems how I'm part of a scattered gurreilla fighting force on what's left of Planet Earth." This, all delivered quite cheerfully. "...Well, not Uncle Drinky's Earth, anyway. There's a gap of about thirty-something years, there, if my estimates are right."
Sanger is convinced that Kyosuke hasn't changed in /that/ regard. The man shakes his head, and then looks once at Excellen. "No, it is not. We will find him. Unfortunately..."
He finishes his juice off, and then looks at the rest. "I have a training course to attend to. Enjoy your rest and relaxation, everyone," the man says. He nods to them. "Major Katsuragi, if she needs assistance getting settled in, I trust that you'll see to it."
After all, Misato seems enough like her!
"Farewell, everyone." Why can't he say see you later like a normal person? The samurai nods, before brushing his hair back. The man turns on a foot, then, and starts off!
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't even know what a Bavarian Goasshalbe is. I tried to look it up."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Normally I just drink, you know, beer."
"See you later, Boss~!" There's a proper salute for Sanger. Because. He IS the Boss. Even if Roy is now technically going to be Excellen's commanding officer now.
Rei Ayanami says, "Rei Ayanami. Designated pilot of Evangelion Unit Zero."
Rei Ayanami says, a moment later, "'White Lady.'"
Roy Fokker says, "It's beer mixed with Cola, Ilyse."
Toji Suzuhara says, "Toji Suzuhara, Evangelion Three. We don't get ranks either."
Ilyse Amsel says, "That's weird, I should try it."
Roy Fokker says, "Toji is Black Fog."
Toji Suzuhara says, "We do get those awesome plastic ID cards though."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't get those either."
Excellen Browning says, "Well, I guess I'd better introduce myself too, huh? Second Lieutenant Excellen Browning of the EFA, ATX Team, and, I guess formerly 'Assault-2'? Pleasure to meet you all~!"
Toji Suzuhara sound of something whizzing past the mike. "I bet you could seriously injure someone with this thing if you had a mind to."
Roy Fokker says, "Yes, I think Misato scratched out some of the info on hers!"
Ilyse Amsel says, "Oh, I pilot the Wildcard. It's the one with the nifty colours that looks handmade."
Molly says, "Oh, I'm Molly! I pilot the Whizzing Arrow III, callsign Rabbit's Revenge. Good to meet you!"
Misato fires off what is a remarkably snappy salute for someone who's put away as much beer as she has. "Absolutely, Sanger. I'll take care of her like she were one of my own." She pauses a moment. "I suppose she is, actually, now that she's one of the Sheep." Grin. "Go and take care of your training course, we'll lock up after ourselves."
She turns a little in her seat and nods approvingly at Excellen. "You know how to put away beer too. We're going to get along great." She once more raises her drink in a toast and chugs. "In the meantime, I suppose I should read up on Mister Nanbu's record. He's not usually a troublemaker, is he?"
Misato Katsuragi says, "Eh, what, Roy?"
Christina MacKenzie says, "Lieutenant Christina MacKenzie, Earth Federation, pilot of the Gundam "Alex"."
Ruri Hoshino says, "Ruri Hoshino, Chief Science Officer of the battleship ND-001 Nadesico. Callsign Pina Colada."
Roy Fokker says, "For the record, I'm Commander Roy Fokker, pilot of the VF-1S Veritech Valkyrie, designation 'Skull One or Skull Leader', callsign Whiskey Sour."
Roy Fokker says, "Or as the Crusaders call me, That $@@@er."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I thought you wanted that title."
Christina MacKenzie says, "...oh, and...Louisville Slugger."
Misato Katsuragi says, "Roy! There's children on the channel."
Roy Fokker says, "Do you hear me complaining, Ilyse?"
Molly says, "Children who pilot giant death machines, ahem."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't care if he says it, people at school say worse anyway."
Molly whistles.
Misato Katsuragi says, "Yeah, but still."
Roy Fokker says, "Molly, are you making out with your boyfriend again."
Toji Suzuhara says, "Yeah. C'mon, I punch giant space monsters in the face. Give me a little credit here."
Excellen Browning sips her drink again. "Hmmm, well, I can't leave out my Weissy!" Clears throat. "I pilot the PTX-007-03C 'Weissritter', currently parked next to the EFA's Hiryu Custom in one of the hangers here in the SDF1. ...Not sure which one, though."
Molly says, "Why, do I sound perkier than usual?"
Roy Fokker says, "Yeah."
Molly says, "Busted."
Ilyse Amsel says, "OK, look, I live in Detroit, I own a TV, I can hear all the bad language I want with and without it."
Rook Bartley says, "Oh, yeah. That beautiful red VAF-6 Alpha and the lovely VTR-038-LT Cyclone are mine. All mine. Touch 'em and I'll kill ya with a spanning wrench."
Roy Fokker says, "I'm so making you people tie a sock to your door knob to your room or something."
Rook Bartley says this all too cheerfully.
Excellen Browning pause. Mental rewind. "...Oooh, would people be up for that? Sounds like a great party drinking challenge~"
Roy Fokker says, "Rook is still learning how to fly the Alpha."
Roy Fokker says, "Ain't ya, Rookie?"
Rook Bartley audible grinding of teeth.
Roy Fokker fingersnaps. "That reminds me!"
Roy Fokker says, "Sanger?"
Roy Fokker says, "Can you take Rook out for some training, your way?"
Ilyse Amsel says, "I don't like the sound of 'party drinking challenge' because I'm afraid I'll lose."
Molly says, "I, er, absolve myself of any responsibility for injuries caused by Rook going postal. She's a good roommate, but very territorial about her machines. So, heads up and hands off?"
Roy Fokker says, "Maybe she can go with you guys to gather the lost Sheep - since she's more interested in polishing her gear than using it."
Roy Fokker so neddling.
Molly says, "...no, not YOU! *click*"
Excellen Browning says, "...Oh wow. You sure about that? Boss is pretty, uh," beat, swig, "strict with training."
Rook Bartley says, "...I'ma kill you, Fokker."
Rook Bartley says, "And I'mma enjoy /every second of it/. Gimmie that damn mission; I'll prove I can do it and get it done better than you can with that old antique of yours!"
Roy Fokker has disconnected.
Ilyse Amsel says, "Meh, training."
Excellen Browning says, "OOC: ...Rook, you weren't meant to challenge him so hard he got knocked offline..! XD"
Christina MacKenzie says, "OOC: EXTREME CHALLENGING"
Molly says, "OOC: Rook is scary."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I never train and I do just fine!"
Excellen Browning says, "*chuckles* ..Don't ever say that around Kat."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Who?"
Excellen Browning clears her throat. Sounds far more amused than she should. "Second Lieutenant Katina Tarask, Octo-1 on the Hiryu Custom. She, uh.. She doesn't approve of people getting to pilot PTs without full training first."
Ilyse Amsel says, "What's she going to do, take it away from me? I built it."
Misato Katsuragi says, "Well, in the case of developmental craft, I'm sure you have to make exceptions. Especially personally developed hardware."
Excellen Browning starts giggling then. And sips her drink. "Nah, she just gets grouchy. She'll probably take it out on Russel and the rest of Octo Squad."
Ilyse Amsel says, "The Wildcard is as good or better than any of the mass-produced crap, /and/ it's way cooler. - Oh, uh, right."
Rook Bartley snorts. "Pfft. I have no qualifications, if you're talking about the military." Her tone of voice implies, 'if she has a problem, she can take it up with me, and I will tear her a new one.'
Ilyse Amsel says, "Qualifications suck! So does the military."
Vanilla H says, "Vacuums also suck. As well as some species of insect."
Misato Katsuragi says, "..."
Ilyse Amsel says, "No offense."
Ilyse Amsel says, "I meant the military at home."
Ilyse Amsel says, "They're not very good, they seem to want to arrest me half the time, AND they don't even have awesome robots."
Misato Katsuragi coughs. "Okay."
Ilyse Amsel says, "Mostly I'm just hoping they don't decide to bother my parents, but I think they've given up since I started spending more time out of plane."