(no subject)
This Entry is ICly Friends-Only
I don't know if this was the virus talking or what, but... Good Jean Grey broke the rules a little bit last night!
Oh, nothing harmful, and in fact, I think it might actually have some very positive results, and in any case, it's certainly a more healthy breakout than going out and getting loaded with Storm (No hangover!) but I definitely broke SOP a little bit.
After a day of spending half my free time meditating so I didn't sound like Biology Teacher Barbie, and the other half staring at still more blood samples that told me nothing I didn't already know, it was time for a break. So, I made a phone call on my cell, set up a meeting place, dodged whatever poor soul was stuck on Jean-watching duty, and headed into New York to sit on a park bench in the best clandestine fashion, and... talk to a reporter.
Yes, I know, I'm so bad. ;-) But really. I wasn't cleared to do it, didn't mention it to anyone, didn't tell anyone where I was going, and was generally very stupid. Hah. Felt good. Felt even better to talk to them just as Jean, no Dr. Grey, no X-Men (I'm not that stupid, even when I'm trying.) Just a little chat with a noted pro-mutant writer about what life is like as a telepath. A nice girl... I scanned her mind before I met her openly, so, nothing to worry about there.
And now to look for the article in the Globe newspaper. The Mansion people ought to be able to figure out that it's me.
Read the OOC Log
X-Men MUCK - Thursday, June 05, 2003, 11:56 PM
----------------------------------------------
< NYC > St. Nicholas Park < NYC >
St. Nicholas is a relatively small park in comparison to some of the others dotting Harlem, but it's regarded with fond affection from nearest residents that flock here on many a sunny day to picnic on the green. Small bodies of water and fountains scatter amid the plains of green grass and manicured gardens, wooden and ironworked benches residing neath a veritable forest of lightly knit apple and pine trees, heavy with snow in the winter and the former spreading soft pink petals in the spring like the cherry blossoms of DC.
[Exits : [H]arlem ]
[Players : Wade ]
Wade
Wade Rowan is your typical red-haired, spunky little leprechaun of an Irish woman. Her hair is short, not much longer than shoulder-length and usually held back in a quasi-curly ponytail. As a reporter, she tends not to dress /too/ casually when wandering about, just in case a story should pop up. Wade wears a pair of black slacks and a white tanktop. Her tanktop is covered occasionally with a black, pocketed vest, and a few necklaces including a cross rest around her neck.
Wade only stands at about 5'1", though her boots may give one the impression that she is taller than she really is. Her eyes are a deep green color, though nothing really unearthly. She /is/ human, of course..
Jean
Beautiful in a slight and academic way, Jean is hardly one to go out of her way for her looks. The straight, shoulder length fall of her auburn hair is generally tied back out of her face in a messy sort of bun, sections too fine, wispy and generally disorganized to be considered sidelocks falling loose to soften the chiseled lines of her jaw. Blue-green eyes are sharply intelligent beneath arched and sculpted eyebrows, observing the world with a scientist's cool gaze softened and humanized by deep rooted convictions and passions that lend mobility and expression to a regally cast face with its aquiline nose and a mouth generally slightly pursed in concentration or thought She stands five feet, eleven inches and no spare change, muscles lean and a whipcord strength belying her slim frame with it's almost anime-long legs. All in all, she carries herself as one not so much unaware of her physical gifts, but... post-aware. After all, the only permanent beauty is in the mind.
A black wool knee-length jacket in a conservatively fashionable cut keeps the evening air at bay with the aid of a grey wool scarf and a sharp looking hat, also in black. The hemline of a grey skirt in Donna Karan's unmistakable styles floats demurely about her calves, and the high collar of a cream silk blouse can be seen above her coat's lapels, accented by a small gold and diamond broach and matching earrings.
Wade sits on one of the benches in the park, enjoying the warmth of the evening as night falls upon the city skyline. The girl is dressed a bit more formally than normal, simply because she's having an interview with a renowned doctor... She doesn't want to look ill prepared, especially since this is going to be such a prestigious interview. Or, at least it will hold more weight than the random street interviews she's done. The girl glances at her watch briefly, before glancing down the street to see if anyone is on their way to arrive.
And arrive someone does, a wool coat against the evening chill coupled with a gray scarf and a fashionably anonymous hat to shadow their features and cover all but a flash of bright auburn hair. It seems that Jean Grey is taking no chances on being casually recognized. Strange, for a telepath who could quite concievably run through downtown New York naked, and leave no-one noticing. But there's something to be said for a little discretion now and again. Spotting a waiting presence on a park bench, the woman slips easily off the path and behind an apple tree to run a quick psychic scan of the area, one last check to see if she's walking into a trap, before with shoulders squared slightly she marches down the cobbles with a clicking of her heels, and settles herself on Wade's bench, likewise looking up at the backlit skyline. "A nice evening," is commented, the idle chit-chat of one stranger to another, before with a shift of her voice, the illusion is dispelled. "Ms. Rowan, I presume?"
Wade gives a confirming, "Mm hmm.." in response to the comment about the evening, though her eyes then shift over to the person sitting beside her. Well, she knows her name.. and Wade gives a little nod in response. "Yes..and you must be Doctor Grey." The girl stands briefly, a formality well ingrained in her, as she reaches out a hand to shake the other woman's. "I apologize if the location was far to travel.. There tends not to be people here. I find that the interview environment is much more at ease if we're outside on a night like this, as well." She offers a smile, brushing a lock of her own red hair out of her eyes. Her voice is tinted with an Irish accent, not heavy or unintelligable, but just enough to note her heritage... or confirm who she is, if one is so inclined to wonder.
"Just Jean, please," the owner of that name waves off the title with an easy smile and a surprisingly firm handshake for a supposed career academe. "I'm here as myself, not as my professional persona. And no apologies necessary... I'd have suggested something similar myself. A little cloak and dagger keeps life interesting, eh?" A brief Canadianism in her speech... perhaps the good doctor's been hanging around a certain metal-laced product of that nation too much lately? Jean settles herself a little more comfortably on the bench, leaning her elbows atop the back and crossing her ankles as she looks over and asks "On that note, of being here as myself and not Dr. Grey... are you going to be recording this interview on tape?" with one eyebrow quirked in caution.
Wade offers a faint smile at her words.. "Alright then, Jean. And on that note, please, call me Wade." She reaches into her pocket for her tape recorder at Jean's words, hesitating briefly before pulling it out. "I normally do.. but I don't have to. Really, it's all your call. I don't have to use your name.. take direct quotes.. anything, if you don't feel comfortable. And I can understand, with someone in your position, why an interview like this might be a bit controversial.. I've used no one's real names in the articles, so far. No one has wanted me to." Another dry chuckle sounds, as her green eyes raise to meet Jean's, to study her briefly. "How would you like to do this?"
"All right, then, Wade." Jean agrees. "And if you call me 'Jean' alone on tape, and keep any specific identifiers of me out of it, I think that should be suitably anonymous. I don't want to be difficult, it's just that, as I'm sure you know, there are more than a few people that would like me dead, and might well go after you, if you're seen as linked to me." All this is stated with remarkably matter-of-fact calmness, as if Jean is discussing the latest twists and turns of a television drama as Jean simply sits, occasionally adjusting the set of her hat, and lets Wade study her for as long as she likes. "How would -I- like to do this?" There's a quick grin in the words. "Despite what you might think, I really don't talk to the press that much. I'll let you direct the interview as you wish. And while I might not be able to answer all of your questions for security reasons, I'll be honest in what I can answer and tell you when I can't. Deal?"
Wade gives a nod at Jean's words, not yet hitting the button as she quirks an eyebrow at Jean's words. "Sounds good to me.. And I'll try to ask questions that wouldn't.. directly have an influence on your security issues." She hits the record button, setting the small black box between the two of them on the bench and leaning an arm across the back as she glances back up to the Doctor.. "Well, I've first got to ask why you answered my request for an interview. What is the main focus that you would like to have portrayed to the world through this interview? Many I've interviewed already have stated their concern about the 'evil' mutants in the news.. Others have shown their support for the mutants that can do good. I'm just curious as to your position on this issue, Jean." She pauses, leaning back slightly and awaiting a response.
Jean eyes the recorder warily for a moment, before settling back and ignoring it from here on in, or at least trying to, once more staring up at the darkening sky, where only the stubbornest stars are managing to break through the city glare. "My position? Well, I think that most of the violence, norm against mutant, or mutant against norm, can be traced back to a root cause of fear. Plain and simple. The FoH and their ilk fear mutants because they don't understand their capabilities, or understand them but don't understand how they couldn't -not- be used for harm. Mutants fear norms because they're afraid of being harmed, because they're afraid that they're so unlike norms that they'll never be accepted... It all boils down to fear of the unknown. One of our common human failings, regardless of genetic complement, it seems." Jean's words are measured and cadenced, obviously chosen with some care, albeit with her inflections warm and unfeigned. "So, how do we reduce the fear? Through the method you've already chosen. Reduce ignorace, you reduce fear. I think what I'd like to speak on is the normal, day-to-day lives of mutants. What it's -really- like, living with the gifts our genes have given us. Despite what the news says, blowing up things and brawling in the streets really -isn't- how the majority of our time is spent." Her statement made, she settles back, eyes intent on Wade, as if willing her to catch the purposefully-dropped 'our'.
Wade is willing and able, though she does no more than quirk an eyebrow at Jean's remark. Well, this certainly would help her understand just /why/ the good Doctor would come to have an interview with you. "'Our', Jean?" Wade asks, offering a faint smile in remark. "I'm glad my request got through to the right people then. Indeed.. reducing ignorance will reduce fear. I'm actually quite curious to hear what normal life is like. I've mentioned before that the news only seems to catch the most absurd moments, much like humans.. Though for a person looking into the society, they may know nothing." She settles back a bit into her seat, her eyes glazing over Jean.. looking for some kind of physical mutation. It's more of a curiosity measure than anything else.. "So what /is/ daily life like for a mutant? Is it really that much different?"
The little tape recorder will pick up the sounds of the light chuckle Jean gives at the roving reporter's suddenly roving eye. "You won't see anything, Wade, unless you have a needle for a blood sample and a gene sequencer sitting in your back pocket. It's all up here." the doctor makes a tapping motion against her left temple. "I'm a telepath and a telekinetic. My family has a history of it for generations... the advent of the X-Factor simply made the abilities useful for more than card tricks." Silently, she projects << And now you see why I'd like to keep my public persona out of this, no? >> with a mindvoice equal to that of her speaking voice, except sounding echoed down a long tunnel, and with nary a twitch of her lips. "But as for daily life? Well, -my- daily life is unusual by -anyone's- standards, but no, it's not that different at all. Except that I have a way of scratching that one spot in the middle of your back that your fingers just can't reach." the older woman jokes gently, seemingly quite reconciled to her abilities. "Would you like me to tell you what an average day is like? What would you like to know about the mundanities of my life? Would you like to get a telepath's eye view on certain situations?"
Wade stays silent as she allows Jean to speak.. Rule number one of journalism, being that the interviewee /must/ talk more than the interviewer. The statement about her telepathy does bring a widening of the eyes from Wade, and even more so as Jean projects words into the girl's mind. "An excellent demonstration.." she states, blinking in surprise and having no idea as to an appropriate response for such an action. Her attention diverts back to listening to Jean, as the tape rolls between them.. Well, this is all certainly more interesting than she expected it to be. "I'd love to get a telepath's view on just what might be different in a normal, mundane day in a mutant's life, versus what you would see for someone without powers," Wade finally replies, thinking her words through carefully before speaking. "Can you see any noticable difference, tension? Of course, I'm not sure if you've ever experienced the daily life of someone who /isn't/ a mutant.. but still.. Our society is so scared of mutants, but would a normal day actually consist of using powers to blow up a city block?" Her eyes have a bit of amusement in them as she states this.. They all know how the news portays mutants.
"Hmmm..." Jean vents consideringly, leaning back even more after briefly sitting forward to nod to a passing police patrolman. "Well, telepaths differ from even other mutants in that we have to exercise a lot more control over ourselves, for our own sanity, really." is begun, the pauses increasing as Jean racks her brain for just how her life -is- different. Without going into the whole superhero gig, of course. "Society seems to be under the impression that telepaths are always listening in on what everyone's thinking. That's not true... most of us spend inordinate amounts of time raising and maintaining strong enough mental shields so that we -don't- hear what people are thinking. The average mind isn't that pretty a place, deep inside, and I certainly don't want to catch thoughts without a damned good reason, pardon my French. And since many of us end up misdiagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia after we start hearing voices when our powers first manifest, well..." The doctor trails off and smiles wryly. "I'm sure you get the picture. So, my day, like that of most trained telepaths, starts off with some meditation to center myself and my shields. This doesn't totally cut me off from the world... I can always pick up on emotions, sort of like Counselor Troi off Star Trek, and I can feel others around me... Being anything above a very weak telepath means that you're always connected to the world, on some level. I sometimes think if everyone could feel that background tapestry, there wouldn't be any racism or geneticism... because we really -are- all human. I've lost access to my powers temorarily now and again, and... it's like I've lost one of my senses. Like suddenly being unable to touch." Turning pensive at the thought, Jean shudders visibly, before shaking her head at the last question. "No... I've had more than a couple days trying to -prevent- people from blowing up city blocks, but the average mutant is just like the average norm. They just want to get through their day as peacefully as possible, and settle down with a beer to catch the ballgame. Live and let live, with alterations in routine made to accomodate their gifts, just like a tall person might take note not to walk down an avenue with low-hanging tree branches, or a wheelchair bound person might find the route with the least steps."
Wade purses her lips together as she listens and digs a small notepad out of her jacket pocket to scribble down a few notes while Jean speaks. A recorder can never catch everything.. such as the little body movements, a shudder. These are essential to the entire mood of the interview.. "You call them gifts..." she finally speaks when Jean pauses... "Others call them powers.. and yet they, from what you just spoke of, seem more of a hinderance than anything else. This is one of the things the FoH has mentioned often, that mutants seem to place themselves above humans because of their ..abilities." There.. she chose a fun neutral word.. "Does it really seem that way, living among mutants? If they'd just like to sit down and watch the ballgame, does that entitle any feelings of superiority over normals.. or is it more of excess baggage that one must carry around, deal with, in order to lead a normal life?"
Jean purses her lips thoughtfully once more, staring up at the lightspill-faded stars as if drawing her words from their inspiration. "I'd be lying if I said that my own views are shared universally. There are as many different opinions among mutants as there are among any other group of humanity, and there -are- those mutants who hold views of which the FoH speaks. Personally, I think it would be nice if we could drop off all of them and all of the FoH on some suitably remote island and let them fight each other in perfect contentment while the rest of us get on with our lives, but that's a bit of a pipe dream, I admit," she twinkles again. "But more to the point, I'd say that those of the mutants who hold that belief are caught in a very adolescent worldview, more suitable to teenagers fancying themselves invincible and -so- much better than their parents. Most teenagers grow up to be adults, and I can hope that those of my genetic complement harbouring those juvenile opinions likewise grow up, in time. As for me? I've lived with my powers for 17 years now... I've come to terms with the fact that they make me no better or worthwhile than anyone else out there, any more so than an olympic athlete is inherantly a better human being because of -their- gifts. But as for individual mutations? Some are blessings, some are curses, but they are all gifts... at least according to Lois McMaster Bujold." The doctor name-drops a favourite SF author of hers. "One of her characters once said that tests are gifts... and that great tests are great gifts. Power of any sort is a test. Will you have the moral integrity to use it wisely? -You- have power, reporter that you are."
Wade notes much of this down on her notepad as she listens to Jean.. "Yeah.. that's another point I've tried to make in my articles.." At this, she grins faintly.. ".. but alas, much of it was edited out. Mutants have the power to destroy, and yet, a child finding a parents' handgun could kill someone just as easily. Much like the teenagers who believe they are better than anyone else, a few limitations set forth by responsible adults could halt a problem until they are mature enough to handle such responsibilities. Am I right on this?" She pauses briefly, before continuing. "But surely, there are some mutants about who believe they are invincible and that humans are weaklings.. I've heard the name Erik Lensherr come up quite often, and from what I've seen, he surely isn't a teenager. What do you think can be done to help those adults who /haven't/ grown to respect life? Can the same precautions be taken with them, or must greater measures be enacted?" Is she making sense? Probably not.. but it sounds good.
ns from phonetics!!! XD I suck at Linguistics O.O But I know what you mean!! like.. Abowt.. abaaut.. or something!!
Jean taps her lips with one finger, as the conversation now draws into territory that cuts close to classified material. No matter how much she might be trying to flex her wings by talking to the press without Xavier's knowledge, Jean's not going to be stupid about it. "If by responsibilities, you're talking about revamping the criminal code to cover such novel crimes as mind-rape or other exclusive-to-the-X-Factor cruelties, then I'm all for it. Across-the-board bans are short-sighted and more hurtful than helpful, because they don't address the root crimes that prompt the fear that calls for them. I'd like to see police forces not just getting training in taking down dangerous mutants, but also working with them in a positive light. Could you imagine the benefits a police psychic could bring? Or an officer with enhanced senses? How about a CSI worker who could identify substances simply by contact with them? I favour integration, not segregation, and equal rights, not special ones." Her first little speech given, she pauses to glance at her watch, before embarking on a second. "But as for Eric Lensherr, as much as I feel for him, thanks to the horrors of his past... If a mutant shows little regard for life and the safety and freedoms of others, then they should be treated just like a regular killer and hate-monger, albeit with provisions made to secure them properly. No special rights, just equal ones."
Wade notes the tap, and gives a slight nod of recognition. Classified material is always fun.. but considering Jean's worry and the fact that Wade's recording everything, the discretion is clearly needed. "That was going to be my next point.. Integration. I earlier proposed mutants actually becoming involved with security.. As much as our police officers can be trained to take down a dangerous person, a mutant is surely going to have more powers over them.. The most well-trained normal could be brought down in an instant by a poorly-trained mutant." She quirks a brow, setting her notebook down for the time being.. "You say they should be treated like a regular killer.. but how do you propose giving these equal rights if, one, they have the power to evade the police and, two, if mutants are reluctant to help in security issues?" She pauses.. "Most I have talked to, while caring about the state of everyone in this city, are reluctant to give aid. Do you really think there's a chance of enough powerful mutants joining up with security that these other mutants may be stopped? From others opinions that you've seen.. and your own, as well.."
"And here we run up against what I can't tell you, even off the record." Jean admits, with a wry twist of her lips. "I apologize for that. But what I -can- tell you is that your question has already been answered. And the answer is 'yes'. I'm afraid I can't break confidentiality with my information sources on this to tell you any more than that. But they -are- out there, and I've spoken with them." she confirms, holding Wade's eyes for a steady moment, not giving away the slightest hint that she herself is one of the 'them'. But then again... who'd believe it? Isn't she busy enough with her public persona?
Wade grins faintly, even though her question was not entirely answered.. "Well, that's good enough information, I suppose.. Though, I have one quick question.. whether you can answer it or not.." Her eyes twinkle at discovering this information.. it's top-secret.. and that's what makes it more fun.. "Are they working on their own, or is this a joint effort with the NYPD and security in the area? If the latter, it would definitly begin making integration easier, I would assume.." And if the former, then that means there's a group of mutants out there, teaming up to protect the citizens of New York..
Jean gives a distant smile at that, and allows in her own version of off-the-record, saying that it's "Currently the former..." << Perhaps some day the latter. Their leader is as large a proponent of integration as I am, so I don't doubt that idea is in their mind. >> before smiling a little more alertly. "That latter half's off the record, naturally."
"Indeed.." Wade states with a wry grin upon her features. Well.. it seems there's more going on than she was originally aware of .. and that always helps in an investigation. "Well, hm.. I think that I'm just about out of questions.. Unless you have anything else you'd like to add?" Plus, she wants to make sure they both can get back home before it gets /extremely/ late .. New York isn't the most fun place to be at night.. as she learned recently. "Your input has been extremely valuable, Jean.. I really appreciate you coming out here.." She flips through her notebook briefly, before glancing back up to the other woman with a faint smile.
Jean shakes her head. "No, as I said before, I'm not really that used to interviews... so, nothing further, your honour." the redhead jokes, offering a parting handshake before getting to her feet and settling her scarf at a jaunty angle. "And thank -you-... it's not often I get a chance to just sit and share my views. Can I give you a life home? Or at least walk you to your car? As you now know, for your own little secret, I'm not as defenceless as I look."
Wade shakes Jean's hand, a jovial grin still upon her features as she chuckles.. "I'm not either.. Though probably not at all in the way that you aren't. I'm glad we had this interview.. Watch the paper.. I'll be getting an article out shortly.." She chuckles.. "Actually, if you brought your car, a lift home would be great.. I've got to learn to stop walking places.. by the time I get home, it's late. If not, that's fine.." Or whatever.. She doesn't need a mutant to protect her..!! .. Or she'd like to think so, at least.
"Oh, I fully intend to, and my car's just parked over at the entrance there... hope you don't mind my driving." Jean replies with an airy grin. The fact that she drives like a dogfighting pilot will just be left for the intrepid reporter to discover on her own... And so the elegant woman strolls off, assumably with Wade close behind.
I don't know if this was the virus talking or what, but... Good Jean Grey broke the rules a little bit last night!
Oh, nothing harmful, and in fact, I think it might actually have some very positive results, and in any case, it's certainly a more healthy breakout than going out and getting loaded with Storm (No hangover!) but I definitely broke SOP a little bit.
After a day of spending half my free time meditating so I didn't sound like Biology Teacher Barbie, and the other half staring at still more blood samples that told me nothing I didn't already know, it was time for a break. So, I made a phone call on my cell, set up a meeting place, dodged whatever poor soul was stuck on Jean-watching duty, and headed into New York to sit on a park bench in the best clandestine fashion, and... talk to a reporter.
Yes, I know, I'm so bad. ;-) But really. I wasn't cleared to do it, didn't mention it to anyone, didn't tell anyone where I was going, and was generally very stupid. Hah. Felt good. Felt even better to talk to them just as Jean, no Dr. Grey, no X-Men (I'm not that stupid, even when I'm trying.) Just a little chat with a noted pro-mutant writer about what life is like as a telepath. A nice girl... I scanned her mind before I met her openly, so, nothing to worry about there.
And now to look for the article in the Globe newspaper. The Mansion people ought to be able to figure out that it's me.
Read the OOC Log
X-Men MUCK - Thursday, June 05, 2003, 11:56 PM
----------------------------------------------
< NYC > St. Nicholas Park < NYC >
St. Nicholas is a relatively small park in comparison to some of the others dotting Harlem, but it's regarded with fond affection from nearest residents that flock here on many a sunny day to picnic on the green. Small bodies of water and fountains scatter amid the plains of green grass and manicured gardens, wooden and ironworked benches residing neath a veritable forest of lightly knit apple and pine trees, heavy with snow in the winter and the former spreading soft pink petals in the spring like the cherry blossoms of DC.
[Exits : [H]arlem ]
[Players : Wade ]
Wade
Wade Rowan is your typical red-haired, spunky little leprechaun of an Irish woman. Her hair is short, not much longer than shoulder-length and usually held back in a quasi-curly ponytail. As a reporter, she tends not to dress /too/ casually when wandering about, just in case a story should pop up. Wade wears a pair of black slacks and a white tanktop. Her tanktop is covered occasionally with a black, pocketed vest, and a few necklaces including a cross rest around her neck.
Wade only stands at about 5'1", though her boots may give one the impression that she is taller than she really is. Her eyes are a deep green color, though nothing really unearthly. She /is/ human, of course..
Jean
Beautiful in a slight and academic way, Jean is hardly one to go out of her way for her looks. The straight, shoulder length fall of her auburn hair is generally tied back out of her face in a messy sort of bun, sections too fine, wispy and generally disorganized to be considered sidelocks falling loose to soften the chiseled lines of her jaw. Blue-green eyes are sharply intelligent beneath arched and sculpted eyebrows, observing the world with a scientist's cool gaze softened and humanized by deep rooted convictions and passions that lend mobility and expression to a regally cast face with its aquiline nose and a mouth generally slightly pursed in concentration or thought She stands five feet, eleven inches and no spare change, muscles lean and a whipcord strength belying her slim frame with it's almost anime-long legs. All in all, she carries herself as one not so much unaware of her physical gifts, but... post-aware. After all, the only permanent beauty is in the mind.
A black wool knee-length jacket in a conservatively fashionable cut keeps the evening air at bay with the aid of a grey wool scarf and a sharp looking hat, also in black. The hemline of a grey skirt in Donna Karan's unmistakable styles floats demurely about her calves, and the high collar of a cream silk blouse can be seen above her coat's lapels, accented by a small gold and diamond broach and matching earrings.
Wade sits on one of the benches in the park, enjoying the warmth of the evening as night falls upon the city skyline. The girl is dressed a bit more formally than normal, simply because she's having an interview with a renowned doctor... She doesn't want to look ill prepared, especially since this is going to be such a prestigious interview. Or, at least it will hold more weight than the random street interviews she's done. The girl glances at her watch briefly, before glancing down the street to see if anyone is on their way to arrive.
And arrive someone does, a wool coat against the evening chill coupled with a gray scarf and a fashionably anonymous hat to shadow their features and cover all but a flash of bright auburn hair. It seems that Jean Grey is taking no chances on being casually recognized. Strange, for a telepath who could quite concievably run through downtown New York naked, and leave no-one noticing. But there's something to be said for a little discretion now and again. Spotting a waiting presence on a park bench, the woman slips easily off the path and behind an apple tree to run a quick psychic scan of the area, one last check to see if she's walking into a trap, before with shoulders squared slightly she marches down the cobbles with a clicking of her heels, and settles herself on Wade's bench, likewise looking up at the backlit skyline. "A nice evening," is commented, the idle chit-chat of one stranger to another, before with a shift of her voice, the illusion is dispelled. "Ms. Rowan, I presume?"
Wade gives a confirming, "Mm hmm.." in response to the comment about the evening, though her eyes then shift over to the person sitting beside her. Well, she knows her name.. and Wade gives a little nod in response. "Yes..and you must be Doctor Grey." The girl stands briefly, a formality well ingrained in her, as she reaches out a hand to shake the other woman's. "I apologize if the location was far to travel.. There tends not to be people here. I find that the interview environment is much more at ease if we're outside on a night like this, as well." She offers a smile, brushing a lock of her own red hair out of her eyes. Her voice is tinted with an Irish accent, not heavy or unintelligable, but just enough to note her heritage... or confirm who she is, if one is so inclined to wonder.
"Just Jean, please," the owner of that name waves off the title with an easy smile and a surprisingly firm handshake for a supposed career academe. "I'm here as myself, not as my professional persona. And no apologies necessary... I'd have suggested something similar myself. A little cloak and dagger keeps life interesting, eh?" A brief Canadianism in her speech... perhaps the good doctor's been hanging around a certain metal-laced product of that nation too much lately? Jean settles herself a little more comfortably on the bench, leaning her elbows atop the back and crossing her ankles as she looks over and asks "On that note, of being here as myself and not Dr. Grey... are you going to be recording this interview on tape?" with one eyebrow quirked in caution.
Wade offers a faint smile at her words.. "Alright then, Jean. And on that note, please, call me Wade." She reaches into her pocket for her tape recorder at Jean's words, hesitating briefly before pulling it out. "I normally do.. but I don't have to. Really, it's all your call. I don't have to use your name.. take direct quotes.. anything, if you don't feel comfortable. And I can understand, with someone in your position, why an interview like this might be a bit controversial.. I've used no one's real names in the articles, so far. No one has wanted me to." Another dry chuckle sounds, as her green eyes raise to meet Jean's, to study her briefly. "How would you like to do this?"
"All right, then, Wade." Jean agrees. "And if you call me 'Jean' alone on tape, and keep any specific identifiers of me out of it, I think that should be suitably anonymous. I don't want to be difficult, it's just that, as I'm sure you know, there are more than a few people that would like me dead, and might well go after you, if you're seen as linked to me." All this is stated with remarkably matter-of-fact calmness, as if Jean is discussing the latest twists and turns of a television drama as Jean simply sits, occasionally adjusting the set of her hat, and lets Wade study her for as long as she likes. "How would -I- like to do this?" There's a quick grin in the words. "Despite what you might think, I really don't talk to the press that much. I'll let you direct the interview as you wish. And while I might not be able to answer all of your questions for security reasons, I'll be honest in what I can answer and tell you when I can't. Deal?"
Wade gives a nod at Jean's words, not yet hitting the button as she quirks an eyebrow at Jean's words. "Sounds good to me.. And I'll try to ask questions that wouldn't.. directly have an influence on your security issues." She hits the record button, setting the small black box between the two of them on the bench and leaning an arm across the back as she glances back up to the Doctor.. "Well, I've first got to ask why you answered my request for an interview. What is the main focus that you would like to have portrayed to the world through this interview? Many I've interviewed already have stated their concern about the 'evil' mutants in the news.. Others have shown their support for the mutants that can do good. I'm just curious as to your position on this issue, Jean." She pauses, leaning back slightly and awaiting a response.
Jean eyes the recorder warily for a moment, before settling back and ignoring it from here on in, or at least trying to, once more staring up at the darkening sky, where only the stubbornest stars are managing to break through the city glare. "My position? Well, I think that most of the violence, norm against mutant, or mutant against norm, can be traced back to a root cause of fear. Plain and simple. The FoH and their ilk fear mutants because they don't understand their capabilities, or understand them but don't understand how they couldn't -not- be used for harm. Mutants fear norms because they're afraid of being harmed, because they're afraid that they're so unlike norms that they'll never be accepted... It all boils down to fear of the unknown. One of our common human failings, regardless of genetic complement, it seems." Jean's words are measured and cadenced, obviously chosen with some care, albeit with her inflections warm and unfeigned. "So, how do we reduce the fear? Through the method you've already chosen. Reduce ignorace, you reduce fear. I think what I'd like to speak on is the normal, day-to-day lives of mutants. What it's -really- like, living with the gifts our genes have given us. Despite what the news says, blowing up things and brawling in the streets really -isn't- how the majority of our time is spent." Her statement made, she settles back, eyes intent on Wade, as if willing her to catch the purposefully-dropped 'our'.
Wade is willing and able, though she does no more than quirk an eyebrow at Jean's remark. Well, this certainly would help her understand just /why/ the good Doctor would come to have an interview with you. "'Our', Jean?" Wade asks, offering a faint smile in remark. "I'm glad my request got through to the right people then. Indeed.. reducing ignorance will reduce fear. I'm actually quite curious to hear what normal life is like. I've mentioned before that the news only seems to catch the most absurd moments, much like humans.. Though for a person looking into the society, they may know nothing." She settles back a bit into her seat, her eyes glazing over Jean.. looking for some kind of physical mutation. It's more of a curiosity measure than anything else.. "So what /is/ daily life like for a mutant? Is it really that much different?"
The little tape recorder will pick up the sounds of the light chuckle Jean gives at the roving reporter's suddenly roving eye. "You won't see anything, Wade, unless you have a needle for a blood sample and a gene sequencer sitting in your back pocket. It's all up here." the doctor makes a tapping motion against her left temple. "I'm a telepath and a telekinetic. My family has a history of it for generations... the advent of the X-Factor simply made the abilities useful for more than card tricks." Silently, she projects << And now you see why I'd like to keep my public persona out of this, no? >> with a mindvoice equal to that of her speaking voice, except sounding echoed down a long tunnel, and with nary a twitch of her lips. "But as for daily life? Well, -my- daily life is unusual by -anyone's- standards, but no, it's not that different at all. Except that I have a way of scratching that one spot in the middle of your back that your fingers just can't reach." the older woman jokes gently, seemingly quite reconciled to her abilities. "Would you like me to tell you what an average day is like? What would you like to know about the mundanities of my life? Would you like to get a telepath's eye view on certain situations?"
Wade stays silent as she allows Jean to speak.. Rule number one of journalism, being that the interviewee /must/ talk more than the interviewer. The statement about her telepathy does bring a widening of the eyes from Wade, and even more so as Jean projects words into the girl's mind. "An excellent demonstration.." she states, blinking in surprise and having no idea as to an appropriate response for such an action. Her attention diverts back to listening to Jean, as the tape rolls between them.. Well, this is all certainly more interesting than she expected it to be. "I'd love to get a telepath's view on just what might be different in a normal, mundane day in a mutant's life, versus what you would see for someone without powers," Wade finally replies, thinking her words through carefully before speaking. "Can you see any noticable difference, tension? Of course, I'm not sure if you've ever experienced the daily life of someone who /isn't/ a mutant.. but still.. Our society is so scared of mutants, but would a normal day actually consist of using powers to blow up a city block?" Her eyes have a bit of amusement in them as she states this.. They all know how the news portays mutants.
"Hmmm..." Jean vents consideringly, leaning back even more after briefly sitting forward to nod to a passing police patrolman. "Well, telepaths differ from even other mutants in that we have to exercise a lot more control over ourselves, for our own sanity, really." is begun, the pauses increasing as Jean racks her brain for just how her life -is- different. Without going into the whole superhero gig, of course. "Society seems to be under the impression that telepaths are always listening in on what everyone's thinking. That's not true... most of us spend inordinate amounts of time raising and maintaining strong enough mental shields so that we -don't- hear what people are thinking. The average mind isn't that pretty a place, deep inside, and I certainly don't want to catch thoughts without a damned good reason, pardon my French. And since many of us end up misdiagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia after we start hearing voices when our powers first manifest, well..." The doctor trails off and smiles wryly. "I'm sure you get the picture. So, my day, like that of most trained telepaths, starts off with some meditation to center myself and my shields. This doesn't totally cut me off from the world... I can always pick up on emotions, sort of like Counselor Troi off Star Trek, and I can feel others around me... Being anything above a very weak telepath means that you're always connected to the world, on some level. I sometimes think if everyone could feel that background tapestry, there wouldn't be any racism or geneticism... because we really -are- all human. I've lost access to my powers temorarily now and again, and... it's like I've lost one of my senses. Like suddenly being unable to touch." Turning pensive at the thought, Jean shudders visibly, before shaking her head at the last question. "No... I've had more than a couple days trying to -prevent- people from blowing up city blocks, but the average mutant is just like the average norm. They just want to get through their day as peacefully as possible, and settle down with a beer to catch the ballgame. Live and let live, with alterations in routine made to accomodate their gifts, just like a tall person might take note not to walk down an avenue with low-hanging tree branches, or a wheelchair bound person might find the route with the least steps."
Wade purses her lips together as she listens and digs a small notepad out of her jacket pocket to scribble down a few notes while Jean speaks. A recorder can never catch everything.. such as the little body movements, a shudder. These are essential to the entire mood of the interview.. "You call them gifts..." she finally speaks when Jean pauses... "Others call them powers.. and yet they, from what you just spoke of, seem more of a hinderance than anything else. This is one of the things the FoH has mentioned often, that mutants seem to place themselves above humans because of their ..abilities." There.. she chose a fun neutral word.. "Does it really seem that way, living among mutants? If they'd just like to sit down and watch the ballgame, does that entitle any feelings of superiority over normals.. or is it more of excess baggage that one must carry around, deal with, in order to lead a normal life?"
Jean purses her lips thoughtfully once more, staring up at the lightspill-faded stars as if drawing her words from their inspiration. "I'd be lying if I said that my own views are shared universally. There are as many different opinions among mutants as there are among any other group of humanity, and there -are- those mutants who hold views of which the FoH speaks. Personally, I think it would be nice if we could drop off all of them and all of the FoH on some suitably remote island and let them fight each other in perfect contentment while the rest of us get on with our lives, but that's a bit of a pipe dream, I admit," she twinkles again. "But more to the point, I'd say that those of the mutants who hold that belief are caught in a very adolescent worldview, more suitable to teenagers fancying themselves invincible and -so- much better than their parents. Most teenagers grow up to be adults, and I can hope that those of my genetic complement harbouring those juvenile opinions likewise grow up, in time. As for me? I've lived with my powers for 17 years now... I've come to terms with the fact that they make me no better or worthwhile than anyone else out there, any more so than an olympic athlete is inherantly a better human being because of -their- gifts. But as for individual mutations? Some are blessings, some are curses, but they are all gifts... at least according to Lois McMaster Bujold." The doctor name-drops a favourite SF author of hers. "One of her characters once said that tests are gifts... and that great tests are great gifts. Power of any sort is a test. Will you have the moral integrity to use it wisely? -You- have power, reporter that you are."
Wade notes much of this down on her notepad as she listens to Jean.. "Yeah.. that's another point I've tried to make in my articles.." At this, she grins faintly.. ".. but alas, much of it was edited out. Mutants have the power to destroy, and yet, a child finding a parents' handgun could kill someone just as easily. Much like the teenagers who believe they are better than anyone else, a few limitations set forth by responsible adults could halt a problem until they are mature enough to handle such responsibilities. Am I right on this?" She pauses briefly, before continuing. "But surely, there are some mutants about who believe they are invincible and that humans are weaklings.. I've heard the name Erik Lensherr come up quite often, and from what I've seen, he surely isn't a teenager. What do you think can be done to help those adults who /haven't/ grown to respect life? Can the same precautions be taken with them, or must greater measures be enacted?" Is she making sense? Probably not.. but it sounds good.
ns from phonetics!!! XD I suck at Linguistics O.O But I know what you mean!! like.. Abowt.. abaaut.. or something!!
Jean taps her lips with one finger, as the conversation now draws into territory that cuts close to classified material. No matter how much she might be trying to flex her wings by talking to the press without Xavier's knowledge, Jean's not going to be stupid about it. "If by responsibilities, you're talking about revamping the criminal code to cover such novel crimes as mind-rape or other exclusive-to-the-X-Factor cruelties, then I'm all for it. Across-the-board bans are short-sighted and more hurtful than helpful, because they don't address the root crimes that prompt the fear that calls for them. I'd like to see police forces not just getting training in taking down dangerous mutants, but also working with them in a positive light. Could you imagine the benefits a police psychic could bring? Or an officer with enhanced senses? How about a CSI worker who could identify substances simply by contact with them? I favour integration, not segregation, and equal rights, not special ones." Her first little speech given, she pauses to glance at her watch, before embarking on a second. "But as for Eric Lensherr, as much as I feel for him, thanks to the horrors of his past... If a mutant shows little regard for life and the safety and freedoms of others, then they should be treated just like a regular killer and hate-monger, albeit with provisions made to secure them properly. No special rights, just equal ones."
Wade notes the tap, and gives a slight nod of recognition. Classified material is always fun.. but considering Jean's worry and the fact that Wade's recording everything, the discretion is clearly needed. "That was going to be my next point.. Integration. I earlier proposed mutants actually becoming involved with security.. As much as our police officers can be trained to take down a dangerous person, a mutant is surely going to have more powers over them.. The most well-trained normal could be brought down in an instant by a poorly-trained mutant." She quirks a brow, setting her notebook down for the time being.. "You say they should be treated like a regular killer.. but how do you propose giving these equal rights if, one, they have the power to evade the police and, two, if mutants are reluctant to help in security issues?" She pauses.. "Most I have talked to, while caring about the state of everyone in this city, are reluctant to give aid. Do you really think there's a chance of enough powerful mutants joining up with security that these other mutants may be stopped? From others opinions that you've seen.. and your own, as well.."
"And here we run up against what I can't tell you, even off the record." Jean admits, with a wry twist of her lips. "I apologize for that. But what I -can- tell you is that your question has already been answered. And the answer is 'yes'. I'm afraid I can't break confidentiality with my information sources on this to tell you any more than that. But they -are- out there, and I've spoken with them." she confirms, holding Wade's eyes for a steady moment, not giving away the slightest hint that she herself is one of the 'them'. But then again... who'd believe it? Isn't she busy enough with her public persona?
Wade grins faintly, even though her question was not entirely answered.. "Well, that's good enough information, I suppose.. Though, I have one quick question.. whether you can answer it or not.." Her eyes twinkle at discovering this information.. it's top-secret.. and that's what makes it more fun.. "Are they working on their own, or is this a joint effort with the NYPD and security in the area? If the latter, it would definitly begin making integration easier, I would assume.." And if the former, then that means there's a group of mutants out there, teaming up to protect the citizens of New York..
Jean gives a distant smile at that, and allows in her own version of off-the-record, saying that it's "Currently the former..." << Perhaps some day the latter. Their leader is as large a proponent of integration as I am, so I don't doubt that idea is in their mind. >> before smiling a little more alertly. "That latter half's off the record, naturally."
"Indeed.." Wade states with a wry grin upon her features. Well.. it seems there's more going on than she was originally aware of .. and that always helps in an investigation. "Well, hm.. I think that I'm just about out of questions.. Unless you have anything else you'd like to add?" Plus, she wants to make sure they both can get back home before it gets /extremely/ late .. New York isn't the most fun place to be at night.. as she learned recently. "Your input has been extremely valuable, Jean.. I really appreciate you coming out here.." She flips through her notebook briefly, before glancing back up to the other woman with a faint smile.
Jean shakes her head. "No, as I said before, I'm not really that used to interviews... so, nothing further, your honour." the redhead jokes, offering a parting handshake before getting to her feet and settling her scarf at a jaunty angle. "And thank -you-... it's not often I get a chance to just sit and share my views. Can I give you a life home? Or at least walk you to your car? As you now know, for your own little secret, I'm not as defenceless as I look."
Wade shakes Jean's hand, a jovial grin still upon her features as she chuckles.. "I'm not either.. Though probably not at all in the way that you aren't. I'm glad we had this interview.. Watch the paper.. I'll be getting an article out shortly.." She chuckles.. "Actually, if you brought your car, a lift home would be great.. I've got to learn to stop walking places.. by the time I get home, it's late. If not, that's fine.." Or whatever.. She doesn't need a mutant to protect her..!! .. Or she'd like to think so, at least.
"Oh, I fully intend to, and my car's just parked over at the entrance there... hope you don't mind my driving." Jean replies with an airy grin. The fact that she drives like a dogfighting pilot will just be left for the intrepid reporter to discover on her own... And so the elegant woman strolls off, assumably with Wade close behind.