What's Laid to Rest Part 2

In the apartments above The Black Hole nightclub owns, Ryan Yamada scrunches pomade into his hair in the bathroom and then sees the time on his phone "Shit Indy...we gotta go. Are you ready?" Thankfully he's at least dressed, but the hair is an art.

India Tor was able to put her hair up in a nice bun, more than just locs tied any kind of way. Now she is working on her dress. Hopping up and down. "Come zip me up. I can't get it." the side zipper doesn’t want to go all the way up on her skirt. An obvious sign of weight gain.

Ryan gives his head a turn in each direction and then nods at himself in the mirror before washing his hands to get the product off. He walks over to India and starts to zip but hesitates "You sure you'll be comfortable in this? I think our little person is crowding you out Love."

India inhales deeply and exhales, causing her body to deflate while Ryan zips her up. "It's this of go like some ghetto hood rat in a jogging suit so." she exhales. "It's not TOO tight but .. yea .. I guess I need to do some shopping." she winks at him and straightens her clothes. "Your hair looks great, baby." she compliments him through a cheeky grin, loving that he takes twice as long to do his hair as she does to do hers.

Ryan smirks and runs his hand lovingly over her little baby bump. He acknowledges the compliment with a smarmy "I know." before giving her a quick peck on the cheek and complimenting her back as he heads through the bedroom door "But yours is pretty damn hot." He jogs down the stairs towards the front hall to grab his shoes and keys.

India laughs and then snorts as she follows him down the stairs. "Watch it, Officer." she warns as she steps into her shoes. "All that butt pattin how we got this one." she opens the door and heads out, not needing to put more swing in her hips ... she's always had plenty.

Ryan scoots out after her and pats her butt just to be a brat "What were you saying about butt patting? Have some decorum Madam!" He teased.

India shakes her head and chuckles to herself, ready for the short walk. "Looks like a lot of people showin up."

Michael Reinhardt walked in alone and remained near the back entrance. Officially he was here simply out of respect for the man he had only met once, liked and then found himself assigned to his missing person’s case. And officially he'd come up with officially nothing. His face is quite stoic and when he stands it is just the side of military attention. The Quake Takers bunch he ignores. The interviews with them are long over an officially he has no reason to continue any association with them.

Ryan nods, taking India’s hand as they walk towards Spokes "Yeah parking lot's full...good thing we live close." He sees a hulk of a redheaded male walk up towards the steps of Spokes. It's his partner Michael but he doesn't see them and his entry into the building is efficient.

"Well there's Mike..."

India sees Michael too ... he's difficult to miss. She moves up the steps and glances inside before reaching for the door handle.

Ryan grabs the door handle before her in a grandiose yet rather tongue and cheek gesture "M'lady..." He becomes a little less silly as they enter the room and take in the sombre mood. Ryan also sees Chief Callahan immediately as he hovers by the entrance "Good day Sir." He says respectfully.

He spots Michael past Callahan and exhales a bit, stepping past and moving to the other side of Mike. Of course the Yamada radar kicks in and Ryan sees Sakura waving madly and Hiro negotiating with people to shuffle around and make two spots. He manages to essentially free up a section of bench that would just fit Ryan and India, if they want to squish right against Hiro. Sakura, Garrett and Tristan are pressed into the wall to make it an option and Tristan looks a little awkward.

India only grins a little bit, but as they pass, she grabs Michael's hand. "Come on, I ain't tryin to let you stalk here in the back like this is some gangster funeral or somethin. Come on, boy."

Michael half considers protesting, but he doesn't want to cause a scene, so he just lets India lead him to her family.

Hiro sees India dragging his son's partner and his eyes pop out a bit. How is he going to make room for the huge man? He leans forward and starts nattering at Stephanie and Tamela. Stephanie frowns at her father slightly as if not understanding what his deal is and then Tamela looks back, waggles her fingers at Michael, Ryan and India and scoots over saying "Reinhardht, come be the meat in our sandwich."

Stephanie blinks at Tams and then looks up at Michael and turns a little pink. She crosses her legs and arms but then smiles politely at Michael "Hi...."

Hiro chuckles delightedly, pats Tams on the shoulder and then gestures to the spot for Michael before settling back into his own spot.

Garrett let out an audible guffaw and then looks self consciously around, remembering they were at a funeral.

Ryan just shakes his head laughing quietly. His family always contributed to every awkward scene in town. Add Tams in and it was a shit show guaranteed.

India can't help but giggle a little bit. She stands in the aisle and shows no signs of wanting to sit. "You sit. I'm standing. I have to with THIS skirt." she grins at Michael, innocently, glad others are helping to pull him out of his shell.

Michael was about to beg off when Tamela speaks and he turns a bright strawberry red. He gives Tams a look promising revenge and sits, watching Stephanie crossing both arms AND legs. "Hi." he murmurs. "I haven't managed to insult you ALREADY, have I?" he wonders, sitting as comfortably as he can given his broad shoulders.

Ryan leans in towards India as she says she needs to stand "Want me to come with you?" Hiro didn't hear her and is looking at the spot beside him expectantly. Sakura eyes India and her eyes travel to India's abdomen. She grins delightedly at the inklings of a baby bump and gives India an unexplained thumbs up.

The jovial antics of the Yamada row attract the attention of some of the Chen cousins who look over judgmentally and whisper among themselves.

Stephanie smooths her skirt and shakes her head politely at Michael "If you think I'm easily offended you haven't spent enough time with my family and friends." She leans forward giving Tams a pointed look. Tams chuckles and then makes eye contact with some whispering Chens, giving them a smile and a nod.

 India blushes and nudges Ryan to sit beside Hiro, blushing slightly at Sakura's thumbs up and then turns her attention to Michael and Stephanie. "He needs to socialize. Break that anti-social cherry, Steph." she deadpans.

Adum watches from his position and coughs, looking down at the floor with his shoulders shaking with suppressed laughter.

Michael is about to open his mouth to reply to Steph when India speaks. "India!' he stares at her as if she’s the embarrassing little sister.

Stephanie lets out a little alarmed squeak and then clears her throat, blinking rapidly at India before taking out her phone "Oh look it's one minute to start..." she mutters "thank god..." under her breath after.

Tams snorts and leans back to Ryan, pointing at India "I like her."

Garrett wipes at his eyes, turning his face to the wall to hide his continued laughing.

Tristan looks between the adults with a slightly confused expression.

Sakura catches the glances from the Chens and puts a finger to her lips looking sternly at the lot of them "Shhhh!"

Ryan had been laughing breathily through his nose with India but then nodded, sat down and pursed his lips, trying to look serious.

Anna had been half watching the Yamadas and company with mild amusement and gave them a look like she'd rather be sitting in that row than where she was now and about to do what she had to do to facilitate this service.

India stands in her tight skirt, able to keep her expression deadpan from long years of acting in her own videos. She places her hand on Ryan's shoulder and stares straight ahead.

Michael hears Steph and agrees with her. "Amen." he looks straight ahead also, waiting for the beginning of the end of it all.

Adum had overheard the Yamada's and glances back, then he leans forward, shoulders shaking. "Poor guy. Thats Ryan's partner, I think."

Megan just chuckles and shakes her head "My sister's not helping at all. I can tell. Pass the popcorn...."

Adum straightens his face out and sits up. "Well, at least I'm not bored. Lets pay attention, eh?" he offers and does his best, to set the example.

Oshi Shikigami arrived dressed in a conservative looking white suit-coat and skirt, with white gloves.  Noting the time she sat in a row close to, but not directly with Anna. And just observe how things are going. As regarding others there, those that she knows, she will give a brief smile to if they look towards her, but she will not go out of her way to mingle. Oshi considers Anna, and by extension, all her relatives, to be a good friend. Although they do not have years to relate to, the time they have had together, has been good. However, Oshi also knows that Anna has many lifelong friends, so she will just make sure that Anna is aware she is there for her, as she wants or needs, but try hard not to interfere with those whom she has a longer relationship with, or family

The last person to walk into the room was Mayor Shirley Douglas. She was down to earth and unpretentious and took an open seat in one of the back rows on the Wright side despite several offers from townspeople to be closer to the front.

What's Laid to Rest Part 1

Lee Chen Wright had been missing since the devastating earthquake on May 22^nd . The police had stopped looking for his body months ago.  Reluctantly, the family had decided to have a memorial. He was thought to have fallen into the sea and drowned. Lee was 38 years old and had a reputation in Cedar Point for drinking too much, picking fights with people and leaving a trail of disastrous relationship carnage with women. There were still some who knew him hoping he was alive somewhere, but others who mourned and needed closure. There was an eclectic gathering of townsfolk filing into the Spokes Community Hall and quietly finding seating among the old church benches. An iPod plugged into a portable dock at the front of the room played a mix of Lee’s music that his sister Anna had compiled into a play list. The current song was Everybody Hurts by REM and quite appropriately timed.

Lee’s mother, Ushi Chen, sat stoically at the aisle seat on the left hand first row. Beside her was Lee’s 10 year old daughter Rosalee leaning into the crook of her Aunt Jade’s arm and quietly sobbing. Jade was crying into the top of her niece’s hair. Beside Jade Chen was Michael Chen who looked misty eyed and held the hand of his and Jade’s 9 year old daughter Lian. Lian looked sadly down at her small sandaled feet. Ushi and Michael’s other living brother Wei took up the second row with his now second wife Miyoun his two grown children; Emma and Joseph and two grandchildren Peyton and baby Chase sitting with and on Emma. Baby Chase was fussing and Emma scooped him up in her arms and walked to the back of the hall, pacing with him and trying to will him to settle. 

The Wright and Beal side of Lee’s family sat on the opposite side of the hall. Anna was seated in the aisle with her mother Tallulah Beal beside her. Tallulah’s cousin Jennifer was next over beside Tallulah’s brother Alan and his wife Patricia. Morgan Wright was not sitting among the family at the front but awkwardly perched on a bench at the back on the same side, looking ready to make a hasty exit at any time. His brother John Wright was at the front, one row back from Anna in the aisle. Uncle John was in a wheelchair so the second bench had been pushed a little further back to accommodate him.

Anna sat sideways on her end of the bench and had a whispered conversation with her uncle. She had noticed her father and his purposeful absence from the family group seating and given him a hopeful look. Morgan had smiled sadly back at her and shaken his head. Uncle John held her hand in both of his and spoke words of comfort.

Beside John were some old family friends of the Wright brothers, known to the town as some of the original Quake Takers.  The Quake Takers were said to be a cult like group that emerged in the 1970s, spouting the view that people who disappeared in the Quakes were part of some elaborate government conspiracy and cover up. Tallulah glanced back and gave the group an awkward smile as she had heard them slide into the bench after helping John position his chair. As the room kept filling up, Chief of the CPPD crept in, scanned the room and stayed purposely at the back, on the opposite side from Morgan Wright. The two men exchanged a curt nod and Nick Callahan stood right by the doorway and leaned against it, not remotely looking like he was even planning to sit. Tallulah smiled knowingly at Nick and appeared to ignore Morgan. Morgan glanced between Nick and Tallulah and quietly sighed.

Wolfgang Pots, with a cane in hand, hobbles in quietly as he can, feeling awkward to be included in such an enduring private moment. He is at the same time honor to have known Lee.. enjoying a drink after work with him from time to time.. He felt necessary to pay his last respects to his bar buddy .

He is dressing in a simple but elegant black suit and tie.. a bit more dressy than his usual garb of choice but leaning back to his rich upbringing. He removes a black felt hat as he enters.

He walks toward the Wright side.. and politely gets Anna attention. With a soft "pardon me, Miss. Anna ' he says softly "so fer yer lost.. yer brother was a hoot and the black hole is sure a bit more quite without his laughter .. ain't the same . He say in softly ..holding his hat with a look of deep sympathy ..

Anna looks up from her conversation with her Uncle, noticing Wolf approaching. She takes in the cane and the formality and swivels on her seat until she can stand, offering him open arms for a careful hug if he's so inclined to accept it.

"Thanks Wolf. It means a lot that you came today."

Wolf accepts her hug gingerly and he nods "wild drunken horse's couldn't keep me away from paying my respects to the old orney fella. He chuckles softly . "Always had a good joke fer me went I had a helluva day" he smiles and makes to go to find a seat on the Wright side

Anna steps back, chuckling and puns "Wild and drunken horses huh? You southern boys get up to some interesting farming. And you've chosen the right side." Her Uncle John and her mother both give a little groan at the pun and Anna smiles smugly as she sits back down.

The room was getting surprisingly crowded now. Anna’s friends Tamela Douglas and Stephanie Yamada arrived together and found two spots on the Wright side. Anna noticed them and they all exchanged a kind but silent greeting. Some of the custodial staff from the school that worked with Lee came in as a group along with a couple of Rosalee’s teachers and the school principal. That group took the Chen side and occupied two rows behind some more distant Chen cousins and some of the staff from the grocery store. Jack Douglas arrived with some of his staff and regular patrons from the Black Hole Nighclub. For good or ill, Lee had been a regular there. The Black Hole group settled in a scattered pattern on the Wright side. Jack ended up diagonally behind his daughter Tamela and tapped her on the shoulder before sitting down. She leaned back and gave him a hug and he exchanged some words with Tamela and Stephanie.

Brandy Miller looked apprehensively around the room and quickly took a seat in the back row at the wall on the Chen side. She was perfectly made up as always in a little black dress and a pair of thigh high boots that looked simultaneously alluring and deadly. Arriving directly behind her was Garrett Yamada. He lingered in the wake of her perfume and watched her sit down, hesitating and looking like he was contemplating trying to join her in the empty row she only took up one bit of. Brandy unconsciously flipped her silky long blonde hair.  He shifted his stance from foot to foot, thinking. Behind him, Nick Callahan stifled a chuckle and then did a little face palm like he just couldn’t watch. Tamela happened to glance in Garrett’s direction, inhaled quickly at the site of Brandy and then snorted at Garrett. She elbowed Stephanie beside her who rolled her eyes and then waved frantically at her brother and pointed behind him. Their parents Hiroshi and Sakura were arriving and they had her son Tristan with them. Tristan was in the care of his grandparents so Stephanie could be more present to Anna at her brother’s funeral. Hiro was oblivious to Garrett’s distraction and simply herded him into a row with his wife and grandson. Tamela and Stephanie looked like they were trying to keep a straight face.

Megan Douglas steps out of Adum Brate’s car as they arrive at the Spokes Hall and gives him a grateful smile "Thanks for coming with me. I hate these things....we've had too many..."

Adum closes the car door Megan came from and nods. "I agree.' he moves towards the door with her, his arm casually and comfortingly around her, remembering how scared shed been to find out about the quake.

Megan sighs "Lee was kind of a dick, but I like Anna so I'm here for her. I'm sure my sister's already in there, which is good." She starts walking but slow enough so that it's easy for her and Adum to walk with his arm around her. She just catches the back of Garrett Yamada as the door shuts behind him.

Adum smiles. "It's got to be hard on her. I haven't asked about the investigation, but ... it's pretty obvious they haven’t found his .. him." he corrects himself and avoids saying 'his body'.

Megan nods and says quietly "Just like my mom...." She reaches for the door and steps forward from being in his arm hold as they approach it. As it opens you can just see Nick Callahan face palm as he hovers by the entrance.

Adum only nods and stays close to her, offering his support. He nods to Nick and, as they move in, notices other officers, obviously either off duty or in plain clothes around. A town event, to be sure.

Megan noticed the tail end of some kind of exchange between her sister and the Yamadas. She was sitting beside Stephanie and looking back so Megan gave her a little smile. Tamela smiled back after some silliness that seemed to be happening and then poked their father. Jack Douglas turned around and saw Megan and Adum, waved, and then spoke to the Black Hole staff and patrons around him. The group rearranged, freeing up space for the two to join Jack. He beckoned them over. Megan looked at Adum in asking and head jutted back to her father.

Adum nods at the head jut and nods for her to head on over. "Ryan gonna make it?" he asks as he lifts his hand in acknowledgement of Jack Douglas.

Megan looks around and shrugs "I dunno. I don't see them...." She walks towards her father's row, hugging him before sitting down. Jack reaches out to shake Adum's hand.

Adam continues to follow. "He better or it looks bad." he grumbles softly, then reaches out to shake Jack's hand. "Good to see you again, Mister Douglas." he keeps his manners in check.

Megan observed another Yamada kerfuffle and then saw the parentals waving. She follows Sakura's gaze and gives Adum a little nudge to look back. Jack had muttered something about Mister Douglas being his father but wasn't pressing the issue. He got quickly distracted by one of his staff pulling him into another conversation.

Cedar Point Brunch Sept 11

Anna Wright picks up a coffee pot as she sees a familiar face "Dr. Ayala. good morning. Sit anywhere."

Ziven Ayala nods and smiles. "Thank you .. and some coffee, please ... and keep it coming." he looks a smidge tired.

Anna Wright comes over and pours "We have lots. I'll come back after you've had a few sips. I know those mornings." she smiles.

Ziven Ayala reaches gratefully for the coffee with a smile. "I wish it was that fun." he blows to cool and sips it black THEN adds a little sugar and creamer. "Since I am only in town on the weekends ... I had a bit of a backlog with surgeries." he admits

Michael Reinhardt walks into the brunch and raises a hand to the Dr, as if he might be considering saying something, but then moves to a chair and sits. "Mornin Anna .. let me have the granola and fruit please. And coffee." he asks.

Anna Wright turns and smiles at Michael "Morning and absolutely." She looks back at Ziven "Do you know what you'd like to eat before I hit the kitchen?"

Ziven Ayala sees Michael walk in and wave. He takes another sip and calls out. "Good morning, Officer Reinhardt. And April is fine. She's a little trooper." he winks a bit, already knowing what Michael is worried about. "I want her to rest a bit more, but I will drop her off before I go back to my week job ... station or your apartment?" he looks at And. "Actually that granola sounds good. I'll take that too. The regular breakfast has eggs in it right? So yea .. the granola."

Michael Reinhardt heaves a bit of a sigh. "Thanks Doc. I appreciate that. I SHOULD be home by around three thirty or four. So my house if possible. If not drop her off at work and someone will slide her under my desk for a couple hours if she’s alright for that."

Anna Wright smiles "Kitty mascot for the CPPD! We can do a tofu scramble if you want the full breakfast Ziven." She moves towards Michael, pouring him a coffee but looks back, still in earshot before her trip to the kitchen.

Ziven Ayala chuckles, but doesn’t reply to the comment about the CPPD.  "No ...  I think the granola will be fine, but thank you for the offer.  I just can't eat eggs and look my falcons in the eye later."  he teases.

Michael Reinhardt laughs. "I doubt that." he tells Anna. "I .. found a kitten during the earthquake and .. I'm just .. now getting her all fixed and her shots and all that." he tries to sound mildly annoyed. "Since no one claimed her after the quake. You know .. I put up the posters and all, but .. so .. I took her in is all."

Ziven Ayala chuckles.  "Which reminds me, Officer.  Because of your sacrifice, I a giving you the shots for nothing.  It's a special I give rescuers."  he drains his coffee.  "One time only, but I know both April AND I appreciate your taking her in."  he smirks.  "Pain in the butt that it may be and all."

Doctor Song: Looks around and shyly asks for some granola and coffee.

Anna Wright sees the new patron and walks over, pouring a coffee "Of course. Good morning and welcome to Cedar Point."

Michael Reinhardt blushes, but chuckles himself. "Appreciate it, Doc." he says nothing more, really about it. He looks at the newcomer and nods a quick greeting.

Doctor Song: thank you, just sailed in yesterday evening

Ziven Ayala looks at the newcomer with a nod of greeting and then looks at Anna, lifting his coffee mug for a refill.  "Please."  he adds the verbal to the request.

Anna Wright smiles at the woman and then walks over to Ziven, giving a new refill "The docks are so nice this time of year. Not so many tourists." She heads for the kitchen next to make all the granola bowls.

Michael Reinhardt nods at the woman. "Welcome to Cedar Point." he greets her with a friendly and quasi official smile, as he represents Cedar Point as a peace officer.

Doctor Song: thank you it’s a pleasure to visit

Ziven Ayala smiles as he watches the black gold poured into his cup.  "Bless you."  he chuckles.  He looks at the woman.  "Are you syaing or only visiting?"  For him the tourist season is over, but his work is not usual.

Anna Wright comes back out with three bowls, dropping them off in the order they were ordered, to Ziven first, then Michael and then the new patron "Bon appetite." she says to the room.

Michael Reinhardt smiles. "Thanks Anna." he looks into his bowl. "How's it goin?" he asks her, casually. He knows she is still dealing with the mess with her brother and is well aware of how he hasn't been the biggest help in many ways.

Doctor Song: Thanks Miss , I am visiting the area for now until my home is finished down the coast.

Ziven Ayala thanks Anna and picks up his spoon.  He murmurs something quickly that is unintelligible.. It’s perhaps a prayer.  Then he begins to eat, not speaking much as he does so.

Anna Wright replies to Michael "It's going.....this week is a bit intense." She smiles wryly and then steps closer to the new patron "And you sailed here? I'm Anna by the way."

Michael Reinhardt eats a bit of the granola and nods at Anna's reply. "I bet." he glances at the newcomer. "Oh .. my manners. I'm Officer Reinhardt. Michael Reinhardt. Just one of the cops about town." he introduces himself, without commenting on the sailor aspect of this woman.

Doctor Song: Hi Anna, Officer,Dr.Rose Song, Friends call me Rosie, yes I sail all over it seems as of late.

Ziven Ayala eats neatly but quickly .. one of the signs of a man on a relatively tight schedule.  He does take a pause to introduce himself.  "Ziven Ayala.  The local part-time vet."  he doesn’t use the term doctor.  That part is pretty obvious in his opinion.  Even though he has only been paying half attention, it’s safe to assume she called him 'Doctor' because Michael or Anna did.

Anna Wright gives Michael a little smile at his introduction and then nods at Doctor Song "May I call you Rosie? And are you a medical doctor or is it an academic title?" She glances at Ziven and adds "Because we seem to be 50% docs in here today."

Michael Reinhardt chuckles and gets back to concentrating on his meal for the now, listening to the whole doctor confusion with mild amusement.

Doctor Song: Ret. Norwegian Navy Medic served in Kosovo conflict now a day I do charity work.

Ziven Ayala grins and drinks of his coffee.  He arches a brow.  "So you aren't a medical physician?"  he wonders, knowing little about Canadian or Norwegian militaries, mostly only American where physicians aren’t medics.  "Interesting."

Anna Wright looks between the two doctors, not knowing the finer points of the training, education and title and then over to Michael with a shrug. She stays quiet so as not to talk over Ziven's question.

Michael Reinhardt looks at Anna and winks. "I can apply a bandage AND call for an ambulance at the same time." he makes it sound like he's bragging about his complete lack of higher medical education.

Doctor Song: aside from stitching up the wounded I suppose your right but then I have done the nastiest work of piecing together small bodies after a bunker blaster tears though apartment blocks /tears up a little/

Ziven Ayala offers a grin as he chews and shakes his head at Michael as he swallows.  "But you may be more important to me on a day to day basis, Officer." he compliments.  "Oh no .. no insult intended."  he apologizes.  "I was advised against joining the military in the U.S., and of course never joined here, even if I am half Aboriginal.  Seems the medics are the ones who get the people TO the doctor, so ...."  he shrugs and offers the woman an olive branch.  "What do I know?  I work with Peregrine falcons during the week and pets on the weekends."

Anna Wright had laughed at Michael's bandage comment and then was reaching for the coffee pot again when she heard Doctor Song talk about stitching small bodies. She turned, clutching the pot to her, reacting to the words and the woman's emotion with her own breath catching in her throat a bit. She nods vaguely at Ziven, appreciating his words diffusing the intensity in the air and then peers into the cups in the room, looking around "Anyone for a refill?" she asks a little quietly.

Michael Reinhardt arches a brow at the conversation's direction. "It can get interesting. I was never military, but I worked in a civilian war zone." he shrugs. "But without one, the other fails and the person, a.k.a the patient dies. No man is an Island blah blah blah." he looks at Anna. "I think I strained my little brain on that one. So yes, more coffee for me, please." he touches his temple. "I need a vacation." he murmurs.

Doctor Song: Yes, Please breathing a sigh just memories things I have to let go of, its why I sail, it helps me. And maybe someday I would love to see the falcons.

Ziven Ayala watches Anna's reaction and Michael's reply.  "Yes, more coffee for me Anna."  and with that he kills the coffee he HAD been drinking.  With his empty cup he mock salutes Michael.  "I heard that."  he agrees, apparently needing one as well.  Looking at the woman, he nods a bit.  "We would love to have you on the island.  It's beautiful and relaxing .. not that Cedar Point isn't but ...  I'm not used to all this hustle and bustle, even only on weekends."

Anna Wright walks around and fills all the cups. When she's at Ziven's table she says "I'm coming there next weekend. You work with my friend by the way, Charlotte. I figured it out after the pizza place. She's invited me up to decompress." She gives Michael a poke after the fills his "You should join me. It's really nice there and this is the time of year to go." Moving to Doctor Song's table she says "Falcon Island, Deisling Provincial Park. You could sail there I'm sure. It's less than a day's journey. I'm going to go to escape some stress. I have to deliver a eulogy next Thursday...for my brother Lee...I need a break after."

Michael Reinhardt laughs a little at Ziven suggesting that Cedar Point was hustle and bustle. "See, I was thinking Cedar Point WAS beautiful and relaxing ... compared to The Devils Kitchen  ... the neighborhood in Vancover I worked with the PD there." he shakes his head. "The idea there is MORE peace and quiet than HERE?" he shakes his head, clearly a city boy. He looks up at Anna after her blatant assault on his person. "I'd love to .. seriously. I need a couple days off to decompress ...." he pauses. "Or whatever passes for it in my life."

Doctor Song: I am so sorry, for your loss, and maybe I will sail by after I resupply and check the rigging on the boat. It’s a busy week of things for me /laughs at her internal joke about beings busy/

Ziven Ayala raises his brows at both Michael’s words and Anna's comment. "You know Charlotte? Nice. We'd love to have you. When I get back tonight I will see about tidying up the place." he finishes his granola and fruit. "Might even iron my uniform for company." he teases even though he's always pretty put together and professional. He wonders about the comment abut her brother, but doesn’t follow through. None of his concern so no need to rip at what is clearly a scab.

Anna Wright smiles a bit at Michael "It's quieter than here. Basically a little cabin retreat. Hope you don't mind outhouses." She nods at Doctor Song "Thank you. It was the quake that took him...like too many here." She chuckles a bit at Ziven "I used to babysit Charlotte when we were young. She was always trying to save the starfish and crabs that were beached...now she just gets paid to." she pours herself a coffee now and stands, drinking it.

Michael Reinhardt grins at the doctor’s early welcome. "I can do quiet ... um ... yea ...outhouses ... I ... I'm ... teachable?" he offers, although it sounds like he isn’t' completely sure he can handle something that complicated.

Doctor Song: Giggles at the outhouse comment, I am sure outhouses won't pose a big treat.

Ziven Ayala chuckles over his coffee.  "I'll write you up a quick instructional pamphlet and provide toilet paper from my PERSONAL stock, Officer."  he promises, not mocking, just teasing a bit.  "It is far from rocket science.  You'll do fine."

Anna Wright snorts "Michael....you look like you could take down a bear...but you can't shit in the woods?" She seems highly amused by this and smiles at both Ziven and Doctor Song.

Michael Reinhardt snorts. "I appreciate that, Doc. Really, I do." he shakes his head and drains the coffee. "Anna .. let me know when you want to go and I will make sure to be available. Ryan and India can cat sit for me. And Doc I will see you when you drop off April." he stands, going for his wallet to pay, nods to the woman and exit for his shift.

Doctor Song: pays her bill and leaves a generous tip.

Ziven Ayala laughs aloud and kills his own coffee.  "And I have to see a couple of patients before I can head back to Falcon Island.  But I will see you in a couple days." he also pays and leaves, turning in the opposite direction Michael turned to continue his day.

Doctor Song: thank you kindly Ms. Anna that was wonderful.

Anna Wright waves as Michael passes "I'll text." and smiles at Doctor Song "thanks so much. Have a great day and see you again. Cheers Ziven.  I look forward to it." She starts to gather dishes, smiling at him too. 

Cedar Point and Alexandra News Bulletin Sept 12, 2016

***on all channels, broadcasts and social media in print and video format***

Vancouver police are investigating a rash of pharmaceutical and cash thefts in the lower mainland area. No less than 7 storefront pharmacies and two pharmaceutical warehouses were victims of robberies over the last week and a half. Four suspects are described as male, dressed in black ski masks and black clothing and carrying automatic assault rifles.  Anyone with information on the robberies is asked to contact their local police department immediately.

Mariner’s Pub Role Play in Cedar Point RPG August 27, 2016

Michael Reinhardt wanders into the Mariner, pausing to look at the afternoon crowd. Showing up in uniform is always a crap shoot, but it makes people behave, so it’s all gravy. He notes Anna at a table with another young woman, so, for a bit he loiters at the doorway.

Tallulah Beal glances up from a bite of broccoli and smiles at the officer. She chews, swallows and says to Anna "One of Nick's boys." offhandedly. She's not trying to be quiet and her tone is jovial.

Anna Wright chuckles at her mother mid sip and then swivels to follow her gaze. She grins when she sees a friendly face "Michael. How's it going? "

Michael Reinhardt overhears the woman and chuckles slightly. He sees Anna and moves a bit closer. After a polite nod to the other woman, he looks at Anna. "I'm good. Ryan and I are on lunch, so I went home to feed April and he just went home." he snorts. "Who’s your friend?" he offers one of his most charming smiles.

Tallulah Beal laughs "I'm her mother. You know I'm sure I've seen you around but we haven't been introduced. I'm Tallulah." She extends a hand.

Anna Wright wiggles her brows "Hope Ryan's not too late getting back then."

Michael Reinhardt arches his brows in stereotypical charming mock surprise. "I have seen you but I didn't know ..." he takes her hand and shakes it, opting not to go overboard by kissing it. Then he looks at Anna. "I might have the rest of the day off ..... again." he winks. "It's not like they can make another baby." he pauses not wanting to impose himself on mother and me time.

Tallulah Beal: Tallulah shakes the hand, laughing along "No that's a one way ticket but best to get their jollies while they can. Are you here for a meal Michael? You're welcome to grab a chair and join us. Then I'll really have something to tease Nick about."

Anna Wright nods "The chief bailed on dinner with Mom so she texted me. He's apparently drowning in paperwork again. Course I had a late lunch so it's just a pint for me."

Michael Reinhardt smiles and pulls up a chair. "I'd love to." and then he freezes, putting two and two together and coming up with unemployment insurance. "As long as I get to keep my badge and get no new scars." he winks, realizing who Tallulah is. "I suppose it’s alright, since everyone knows how head over heels I am with Anna here." he grins, teasing Anna, which is always good for a giggle.

Tallulah Beal raises a brow looking at her daughter and back to Michael "Why am I always the last to know?" She has a suspicious look like she might be thinking he's kidding.

Anna Wright rolls her eyes and laughs and then pretends to fan herself "I bet you say that to all the girls." She hears the door open and looks back, giving Oshi a wave.

Oshi Shikigami: Oshi waves back, but does not interrupt. Finds a seat, and waits to order.

 Michael Reinhardt smiles and leans between them, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "I do, but don't let the word get out." he whispers. He leans back and looks aver at Deidre, who is watching with slightly narrowed eyes. "Fish and chips and coffee, please." he calls out, then notices Oshi and nods at her.

Oshi Shikigami nods back

Tallulah Beal gives Oshi a big smile and then shakes her head at Michael before saying to Anna "Better keep an eye on this one." She digs into her salmon now. It's got that deep Pacific red perfectly flaky quality that makes it simply divine.

Anna Wright smirks and then glances back at Oshi "Let's invite another female to the table so Michael can just be a total stud." She cranes around "Oshi are you on your own over there? Would you like to join us?"

Oshi Shikigami: Yes, on my own it would seem. Thank you for the invite, I will be right over! She smiles, stands a bit wobble, as she now has a cane, and not a crutch, and seats herself at the table with the others.

Michael Reinhardt chuckles and rolls his shoulders. "See." he stage whispers to Tallulah. "She’s always trying to foist me on others. It's heartbreaking ... really ... it is."

Tallulah Beal laughs heartily "Well two redheads....the world might implode. Hello Oshi. How are you this evening? How's that foot? "

Anna Wright gives Michaela fake withering look "You're too much for me all on my own." she teases and winks and then looks at Oshi "Still rough eh?"

Oshi Shikigami: Oh, me, I guess I am doing OK, Just got the cast of, and trying to navigate with a cane instead. Doesn’t hurt too much unless I move just right.

Michael Reinhardt snorts slightly "And that's why your my kind of woman." and looks at Oshi. "And you look lovely today. How is Tatsu? Anyone else inquiring at her school?" he wonders.

Tallulah Beal looks kindly at Oshi and just keeps eating, listening now with curiosity.

Oshi Shikigami: Oh Michael, so glad you asked. Well it is a long story, and only beginning. Perhaps I could buy all of you a drink first? I would be honored to do that for my friends. Oshi smiles and attracts over the barkeep, and says to her, whatever they would like, it on me...

Anna Wright half smiles and then it falters "Is Tatsu having trouble in school? She seems so bright."

 Michael Reinhardt arches his brows. "Oh?" he glances over. "Just coffee for me, thanks." he has every intention of paying, but doesn't tell Oshi. Deidre knows, however.

Oshi Shikigami: Well we don't have to have the police investigate any more. So that's a good thing. Tatsu, well Tatsu is in Australia now. But not for long. She is going back to Japan. But there is so much more...

Michael Reinhardt nods. "With her parents?" he wonders, casually.

Tallulah Beal chews her salmon, looking between them, intrigued.

Anna Wright's eyes go wide "Is everything OK? Police?"

Oshi Shikigami: Anna, well we were concerned about some people that came to school with a bunch of tests for Tatsu, that seemed well real odd. But now I have answers, and although very odd are not as bad as we feared. Two days ago her parents phoned from Australia, and they wanted her to come as soon as possible, but did not really say why.

Michael Reinhardt pauses a moment as his food is delivered. "They didn't say, eh?" his fries seem to be a double order and he picks one up, munching it thoughtfully. "SO .. now they want her...."

Tallulah Beal looks rather confused "Want her for what? Some kind of academic exchange in Australia?"

Anna Wright nods along with her mother confirming she holds the same question in her mind and then looks at Oshi.

Oshi Shikigami: Tatsu has flow alone before, so I know she could deal with that, and her parents asked, so I had to let her go. When she gets there, they tell her, that the government had indeed had those tests done. They were from the Japan Defense Force, the military if you will. They wanted her to join! Now she is a minor of course. So they need her parents’ permission. And as it is all volunteer, not "draft" she had to choose to as well.

Michael Reinhardt blinks, another French fry halfway to his mouth. "She's ... thirteen, is it? Fourteen?" he seems even more confused.

Tallulah Beal blinks "What does the Japanese military want with a young girl?"

Anna Wright looks worried "This sounds kind of frightening."

Oshi Shikigami: She got perfect scores in math. PERFECT. They don’t even have a place for a third digit on their digital scoring. LOL. So, they think it would be huge PR for starting up a program for smart military and young. Oh, and she is 13. True. But I know of some cadets in Defense Force military schools who are 15 years old, now. I guess they lowered the age requirement?

Michael Reinhardt eats the fry. "But Oshi .... perfect scores or not ... I thought there were worldwide restrictions and sanctions AGAINST using child soldiers .... and fifteen is still a child. Japan can't really ... you'd expect that more from North Korea, I would think." he's blunt as a plane flying into a building sometimes.

 Tallulah Beal sighs "Some countries have mandatory service but usually it's at eighteen. Does Tatsu really want this?"

Anna Wright looks anxiously for Oshi's answer.

 Oshi Shikigami: I would not be surprised, if they were going to get her involved in some very technical research projects. Yes, but you forget, their constitution forbids acts of military aggression. They do not train them for combat but "self defense". And even kinds deserve to know how to defend themselves, Yes?

Michael Reinhardt picks at his fish, but doesn’t eat. "Is that what they're calling it these days/" he murmurs darkly. "I'm sorry Oshi, but the only think I can think of is Hitler Youth and other child soldier programs that began the same way." he sighs and goes back to moving the food around his plate.

Tallulah Beal says gravely "I hope she never needs to use that defense. Is this more of a military school or funded facility?"

Anna Wright says quietly "I hope she stays safe."

Oshi Shikigami: What does Tatsu want? She is a teenager! Who can determine. She is smart, but she also feels an obligation. Japanese can be like that. Obligated to her parents, and her country. And maybe she has some info or inclination of what is involved. I saw her do research on the net, about some very interesting stuff, involving math like that.

Oshi Shikigami: And they have been watching North Korea launching missiles right up to their waters. All that can affect ones thoughts on the matter?

Michael Reinhardt pushes his plate away, having only eaten two of the fries. He opens his mouth and closes it, then slowly shakes his head.

Tallulah Beal asks carefully "If she decides...that's it's not for her...can she withdraw from this choice easily? Like you say she is still figuring out what she wants in life, still maturing...."

Anna Wright observes Michael's lack of appetite and takes a slow sip of her pint, watching Oshi.

Oshi Shikigami: In any case, it is settled. Her parents asked, and her country asked. And she said yes. For whatever reason you can suppose. And she is heading back to Japan, and getting assigned. And perhaps the most odd, is that they are making her a "Warrant Officer." She will have the option to resign, if that is what she chooses...

Michael Reinhardt snorts and picks up his coffee, staring into its depths. He sets it down, undrunk and begins to stir it vigorously, clearly upset.

Tallulah Beal silently processes, nodding slowly and looking pensive.

Anna Wright looks at Oshi pointedly "How are you with all this?"

Oshi Shikigami: You must understand, this is all real new to me. And I have not had chance to sort it all out. But please also understand that the Japanese people have very strong feelings both about family obligation and obligation to country. Hell, I don't know. I am so sad to loose her, after so much and so little time. Tears start to fall on Oshi's cheeks.

Michael Reinhardt stops stirring his coffee. "Oshi .... " he pauses again and stirs into his still swirling coffee. "I understand stories about obligation to country and family. Believe me. I've hears stories from my own family so .. I sort of ... ugh." he growls and runs a muscled hand through his red locks.

Tallulah Beal reaches out and pats Oshi's hand "I know this is hard on you."

Anna Wright looks sympathetically at Oshi "I can't even imagine..."

Oshi Shikigami: Oshi pulls out her phone, and shows a picture on it to all. Tatsu did this for me, She says she will be writing a detailed letter soon.

The picture on Oshi's phone is a drawing in anime style of a young Japanese woman in military uniform, her hair windblown, with a Japanese flag in the background. The woman depicted is holding a sword in one hand and a sheath in the other.

Michael Reinhardt looks at the picture and buries his face in both of his hands, groaning.

Tallulah Beal looks at the picture and then at Michael before looking at Anna and then Oshi in question to his reaction.

Anna Wright looks at the picture , trying to be positive and starts to say "It's a good drawing..." and then Micheal groans and she watches him hunch into his hands. She shrugs at her mother and Oshi, not knowing why it's hitting him this way and wondering.

Oshi Shikigami: Oh my! I need to notify the school, and some of her friends too, Aw, poor Hani, it will break his heart!

Michael Reinhardt stopped at the first groan, but keeps his head down in his hands.

Tallulah Beal looks sadly at Oshi and then concernedly at Michael "Did you have a connection with Tatsu...or are you feeling unwell?"

Anna Wright: Anna nods at Oshi "It will be a shock for sure." She reaches out a hand towards Michael and just gives him a little light finger tap on the back of his elbow.

Oshi Shikigami: Tatsu really likes Michael, he taught her some nice self defense moves, and always has a kind word for her.

Michael Reinhardt looks up and clears his throat, gruffly. "Well, Tatsu is a good kid and I'm not pleased with this news, but ..." he sighs deeply and keeps his eyes lowered. My granduncle was Deutsches Jungvolk at eleven. Then he went on to be Hitlerjugend." he sighs again. "The sole official youth organisation in Germany and was partially a paramilitary organisation. Emphasis on paramilitary, Oshi. DO you see my problem with all this?"

Tallulah Beal looks taken aback and swings her gaze between Michael and Oshi like she's watching a tennis match.

Anna Wright exhales into a low whistle, letting her gaze fall to the table.

 Oshi Shikigami: Yes, I can but all countries have worked hard to not make that happen again. Although she is brilliant, she also has a very good and kind heart. I cannot see her doing anthing that would bring herself dishonor.

Oshi Shikigami: Oh, and I promise to keep you all up-to-date, as much as I can with what is happening to her there in Japan. Who knows, it is at least possible, it will be good things?

Michael Reinhardt sighs deeply. "I am sure my grand uncle felt the same, but he .... " he holds up his hand in the classic stop sign. "Anything is possible, Oshi." he replies, but a bit stiffly and mechanically.

Tallulah Beal looks down now too and then up at Oshi "Will she be close to where her family is at least?"

Anna Wright gives Oshi and encouraging little smile and then inhales audibly as she glances at Michael. There's clearly more to this for him.

Oshi Shikigami: Michael, you have my word, if I see even the slight of anything like that happening, I will move heaven and earth, to get her out of it! Oh Tallulah, her parents are in Australia now. Of course my parents are in Kyoto, and she has some relatives most everywhere in Japan as well.

Michael Reinhardt nods, very slowly. "I know you'll try." he closes his eyes. "So her parents are staying in Australia? Seriously?" Tatsu's parents are not on his list of favorite people. He looks at Anna and sighs a bit more softly.

Tallulah Beal furrows her brow "Are the parents working in Australia? Will they go back to Japan?" She darts a look between Michael and Anna before giving Oshi her full attention again.

Anna Wright glances at each speaker at the table as they verbalize, focusing briefly on Michael as he sighs. And then glances up just as her mother gives her a little look. She turns her head and rolls her eyes.

Oshi Shikigami: Well for now, they are in Australia. In a few months, or a year? Well all bets are off on that. They are "Dilettante Travellers" That globe trot, as it suits them, and they can profit from it. In other words they have been incredibly lucky with business ventures, and they can go to wherever, whenever, they want, and do.

Oshi Shikigami: It is the only way I could afford to care for her, as they have been paying me to care for her. They do not begrudge money for her, only time, it would seem.

Michael Reinhardt shakes his head. "Well, the government can take care of her from this point, I guess." his voice is heavy with sarcasm and more than a little anger.

Tallulah Beal leans back now, folding her arms "Well it will be an interesting path for all of you. I do hope it goes as well as it can."

Anna Wright sighs "Tatsu's pretty well adjusted, considering all that. As long as she keeps her head straight. I think you've probably given her more support than she's had before Oshi. She'll miss that."

Oshi Shikigami: Michael, it is just possible, they might do a better job? Oshi looks half serious as she responds. And yes Tallulah, it is not like there is a lot I can do to change this, at least for now. And yes, Anna. I know she will. More than she would admit too. But all in all, I do have faith in her. She is one of the best parts, of her up-coming generation. And I do feel she will prevail and make something marvelous for a life.

Michael Reinhardt nods, but ignores the whole better job thing. . "I'll miss her. The cemetery probably will too. And the Chief may have been thinking of hiring her to answer the phones." he gives a smile a valiant attempt and mostly succeeds.

Tallulah Beal had smiled at Oshi and now can't help but outright laugh at Michael's words "Maybe just his phone to divert a few more callers."

Anna Wright smiles at Oshi warmly and then laughs along with her mother about Tatsu being hired for the cop shop phones.

Oshi Shikigami: Well you tell the Chief, that I am sure she would be honored to do phones any time she is here LOL Yeah, the cemetery is going to be a lot more "ordinary" too. I hope she has time to do and send her art back this way.

Michael Reinhardt chuckles, welcoming another subject. "He would like that. He liked the kid, but if he cries when he finds out, you know why." he grins. "You know who gets sent out on Ushi calls now, don't you?" he looks at Oshi. "I like the cemetery. Have lunch there a lot." he shrugs as if this is the hottest place in town for a picnic.

Tallulah Beal shudders at the word Ushi like it's the beginning of a severely allergic reaction. She then shakes her head around and stands "Speaking of Nick. I was going to drop him off some take out. It's been nice meeting you Michael." She looks pointedly at him and then Anna "I'll see you at home dear...." Her eyes bore into her daughter briefly before she turns to Oshi with a tone of warmth "Good luck with it all and all the best to Tatsu." She picks up her empty plate and heads towards the bar.

Anna Wright chuckles a bit about the cemetery and then looks exasperatedly at her mother "Behave yourself Mom. Later."

Oshi Shikigami: Well perhaps sometime I can join you there for lunch. We can share sushi and the sea, and maybe reminisce a bit too? Tallulah, a pleasure for sure. Hope to catch up with you soon again.

Michael Reinhardt smiles at the look mother gives daughter and looks at Anna as if dying to be a fly on the wall of THAT conversation. "I'd better go too ... see if my partner is done with his lunch." he snorts, rolls his eyes and goes into his wallet paying for his uneaten meal.

Tallulah Beal thanks Deidre and walks away with a takeout container, giving a little wave behind her as she saunters off.

Anna Wright watches Michael walk by and nods "OK see you soon...take care eh?" She waves at her mother briefly and turns to Oshi "I should head out too but if you need to talk more, don't be shy to get a hold of me."

Oshi Shikigami: Michael, Have a great time for the rest of the day, you deserve it. And try not to worry too much? And Anna, so many thanks! I still need to sort things out for sure. And I just may well take you up on that. I appreciate your common sense. Thanks!

Oshi Shikigami bows “ SO I will be scooting too...”

Michael Reinhardt winks as he passes Anna and leaves the Mariner with a mischievous grin on his face.

Anna Wright gives a little bow back to Oshi, chuckles and rolls her eyes at Michael and then stands up to pay for her pint "Cheers."

Special Delivery

This is a role play log from a grocery rp night we had at Chen's Supermarket.

Rory the grocery clerk comes out of the back room and sees the officer "Hello Officer. Can I help you find anything?"

Michael Reinhardt walks into the grocery and heads for the post office stand. "I have to change my address ... my mail is still going to Vancouver."

Rory the grocery clerk looks a bit nervous "Uh...I'm not the usual postal clerk but I can...try..." he heads behind the counter and starts opening drawers for various forms.

Michael Reinhardt watches him fumble for forms. "That’s OK, I don't do this every day anyway."

Rory the grocery clerk frowns and clicks a button on the intercom "Post office?" He digs through a few more drawers "Hmmmm.....oh maybe...." He pulls out a stack of somethings "Yes...these..." he passes one over and then fumbles for a pen. Finding it he looks up and smiles and then looks past the officer "Huh, funny time for a delivery...."

Oshi Shikigami: Hello Michael! Good to see you officer san :-)

Michael Reinhardt takes the pen and looks over his shoulder. "You aren’t EXPECTING that truck?" he asks, mostly casual.

Rory the grocery clerk shakes his head and then smiles at the woman "Hello there Miss." He walks past her to the windows "That's not the loading zone....geez....what the heck..."

Oshi Shikigami: (Oshi sees her friend is preoccupied with 'business' and continues shopping)

Michael Reinhardt turns and watches the clerk. Since 9-11 everything is suspect. He sets the pen down and turns taking a step forward, seeing Oshi and simply nodding, his senses on alert.

Rory the grocery clerk pushes the door open and hollers "Hey buddy I think you have the wrong place." The man spits out a toothpick, walks up to him and hands him an invoice. Rory's eyes go wide and he grits his teeth.

Michael Reinhardt listens and watches, noting the kid’s expression, but for all he knows it is a gross of condoms instead of bananas and the kid is freaking out.

Oshi sees the officer's concern, and decides to pop outside and check on Tatsu.

Rory the grocery clerk walks back in looking nervous muttering "Oh man oh man......." and heading for the intercom behind the cash. He winces as he reaches to push the buzzer.

 Michael Reinhardt moves his eyes from the clerk to the truck outside and simply waits to hear what the kid has to say. All he was trying to do was fill out a form in five minutes, but nooooooooo.

Rory the grocery clerk talks into the intercom "Ms Chen, we have a delivery....not it's not that...um it's from your son's landlord...well former....you better come see...

 Mitch Newmore: Oh geez...I forgot my list!

Michael Reinhardt arches his brow and murmurs. "For fucks sake." and goes back to the counter to fill out the simplest of forms.

Mitch Newmore looks over the salad fixings...

Rory the grocery clerk nods nervously still talking into the intercom phone "Yes I understand...." and then hangs up, looking nervously outside at the furniture truck.

Mitch Newmore “Geez, I didn't think pumpkins were in season. (scratches head) these must be from Costa Rica or Thailand.”

Michael Reinhardt fills out the form slowly, so he only has to do it once. He struggles with the small boxes and grumbles to himself

Rory the grocery clerk starts walking around to try to calm his nerves "You doing OK Officer?" He asks as he passes.

Mitch Newmore: “...or maybe Cleveland.”(heads over to the packaged meats)

Michael Reinhardt nods. "Are you, Kid?" he sets the pen down and turns around looking at the delivery truck calmly.

Rory the grocery clerk laughs nervously "Have you met my boss? She’s not happy...not happy at all..." he sounds jittery and walks a bit more and addresses the man by the meats "Finding everything OK?"

Mitch Newmore thinks: I always think, awww I don't need a cart but then I always am juggling too much stuff)...geez...

Oshi and Ryuko are chatting about what food to get for dinner, and for tomorrow. They are discussing in a mix of Japanese and English and it seems that She is more interested in western fair, and he in Eastern.

Michael Reinhardt chuckles. "I only know her by reputation." and it occurs to him he may be meeting the woman live and in person. "Um .. where do I stick this thing?" he waves the change of address card as if to dry the ink.

Rory the grocery clerk walks back to the officer to take the card "I'll ask where it goes.....thanks." He hears other customers speaking in English and Japanese and glances in the direction of the voices for a moment and then back to the officer.

Mitch Newmore: Excuse me? The salmon? that wasn't frozen, was it? (looks at the fish counter man, giving him that third degree look. like that'll change anything)

Michael Reinhardt hands the card over. "Thanks kid." he looks at the truck again and pauses a moment before leaving the store. If what he has heard about the owner ... he may get called right back if he leaves.

Ushi Chen storms out of the back room like a raging bull and stops just short of ploughing into the man in the orange shirt. Rudely she barks "Do you mind?!" at him.

Mitch Newmore: uhhh? no, i don't mind? ...what...what would i be minding?

Michael Reinhardt hears the disturbance and watches, carefully. Silently. Well aware he is in uniform.

Rory the grocery clerk practically cowers from his spot and mutters again "Oh man...oh man...."

Oshi Shikigami: So, you do have some fresh Salmon then? Well then I will take two pounds please, er one kilo, oh whatever...

Ryuko is reading labels on some of the kitchen utensils and a rice maker, seems to be contemplating something.

Ushi Chen stares up at the orange shirted man, way up but her height doesn't contain her fiest. She gestures behind her "This is a door. It opens this way......do you like your head?" her question is vague and sounds a little nuts but she's ready to burst a gasket over something that has nothing to do with it.

Mitch Newmore: uhhh, sorry Miss. I didn't....uhh, i was trying to order some salmon. (turns to the counter) two pounds?

Michael Reinhardt watches the kid clerk cringe and continues to watch Ushi. The woman’s voice makes him cough but then he goes to loitering, finally observing Ushi live and in person.

Rory the grocery clerk retreats back to the cash desk and engages in busy work putting bags on hooks, stacking random piles of stuff, hiding in general.

Oshi Shikigami: Perhaps we should have salmon tomorrow?

Ryuko Shujinko: Yeah, I know a tuna recipe with fried rice that will knock your socks off! Better than the tuna Cheetos from the university, I promise you. LOL

Ushi Chen navigates around the man and harumphs ad then makes a beeline for outside yelling as she opens the door "You can't park there!!!!"

Mitch Newmore: orders his salmon from the man at the counter. Turns to Ushi and says toward the man at the counter, "I'd like to get my tuna rectified, if that's possible"

Michael Reinhardt watches the kid scamper and finds it all amusing, even though his face reveals nothing. He moves to the counter and stays well out of the way. It both improves his view and may make the kid feel safer. Ushi moves outside bellowing like an angry hockey player and he leans against the counter casually, wondering if he and his uniform will be spotted.

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 walks through the doors of the supermarket making a beeline for the post office to pick up his mail at his post box.

Rory the grocery clerk nods at the man heading to the post office and then watches out the door with a look of worry. He looks back at the officer "This isn't going to be pretty."

Mitch Newmore: thinks: This is the longest God-damned salmon order in BC history. I coulda gone out to the bay and caught one myself. Smiles at the counter man and accepts the salmon in the brown paper wrapping. "And my rectified tuna? ...Oh, one pound please. 0.4535924 kg if you prefer. Smiles

Michael Reinhardt sees Wolf and nods, then at the clerk. "From what I’ve heard, that’s probably a hell of an understatement, kid." he half considers calling in Nault, then decides there is no need to aggravate the situation.

Oshi Shikigami: Well, I don’t see any 'Code Red' here, you may just have to survive with regular mountain Dew? *snicker*

Ryuko Shujinko: Oh, I think, under the circumstances, that is a fair trade-off. He chuckles.

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 pick up his mail  'what got her bloomers in a twist " he whisper soflty 'what sorta hornet nest did i step in ta'he say in a low voice

Ushi Chen can be heard through the glass "I AM NOT PAYING C.O.D. SEND IT ALL BACK TO THAT ASSHOLE!"

Mitch Newmore: Smiles at the counter man as he expects the rectified tuna. "Thanks.:" turns toward a loud yelling...something about Assholes...or Fuckers...nope, it was Assholes......smiles and goes over to the canned goods.

Michael Reinhardt arches his brows again, still looking mostly deadpan, but he moves from one side of the counter to the other ... towards the doors and the pandemonium. As he does he murmurs to Wolf. "Be ready to duck and cover, sailor."

Mitch Newmore: *expects...accepts the rectified tuna

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002: aye , captain , 'he salutes the officer ..

Rory the grocery clerk just mutters "Oh man oh man....."

Oshi Shikigami: Mac and cheese? Really? Well yeah I have a recipe for one, a bit different though. Hope you are not one of those Catchup sucks on Mac types though...

Ryuko Shujinko: Well, I kinda thought I was a 'purest', but if you say you have something um, special, well who am I to say, at least without tasting.

Ushi Chen starts shoving the boxes back on the truck "I'LL TELL YOU WHERE YOU CAN SHOVE IT PUNK!"

Mitch Newmore: ...compares shampoo. "This one is three dollars...but this one is 3.50. And it has zest appeal. Gee, do i need zest appeal?"

Michael Reinhardt watches and nods. "That’s my cue." he murmurs to no one in particular and steps outside. "What seems to be the problem?" he asks as if he has just been beamed down and is clueless.

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 looks over the magazine and grab him a bottle of  Shady lane sweet tea and some kit kats and places it and the some adult mags on the counter

Rory the grocery clerk turns to ring through the blonde man "Find everything OK today?" he asks nervously.

Oshi Shikigami: I just wish they had some prepared bentos. Sometimes it is a real pain to get a good meal for Tatsu for school, every day.

Ryuko Shujinko: It's ok, give me some sheets of seaweed and a few hotdogs to make into octopuses, a slice of cheese... I can make an mean bento.

Mitch Newmore: thinks, "Geez this supermarket plays great music...for a .....Supermarket." Mitch studies the tampons. "Geez, I hate when Patty sends me out to do this." squirms...looks at the laundry detergent again.

Ushi Chen swivels and stares up at the cop "Arrest him! He's taking all my parking spots. Tell your Chief.....this is trespassing, harassment, loitering with intent to...." she's so mad she can't even come up with more "Just take him down!"

Michael Reinhardt looks at the irate woman with raised brows. Then he looks at the truck. "Just pack it up and move the truck." he orders, mildly, as the man IS parked illegally. "Now."

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 smiles 'doing fine 'he laughs 'just breath there sonny boy 'he smiles in a sorta fatherly way .. not knowing the kids age but he had be at least old enough to be his own kid '

Rory the grocery clerk starts bagging and sees the magazine. His eyes go wide and he awkwardly blurts out "That'll be 22.50...Sir..."

Oshi Shikigami: Speaking of anime, you did set up that Roko account so we can get it on our flat screen? I don't mind paying for it, if it works, but I never get it to work.

Ryuko Shujinko: Yes, it is all set along with three other services. You can see every anime broadcast to Canada, and a lot of them for Asia only Shhh, do tell anyone though.

Ushi Chen sighs "Fine." She gives the officer a little shove "Don't you like to cuff people? If I was a cop I'd cuff him...then I'd be good cop and bad cop...Which one are you?"

Mitch Newmore: waits in line, juggling a ridiculous amount of groceries in his arms...dropping the shampoo as he reaches for a bag of Smarties...smiles at the counter clerk and the customer in fron of him...embarrassed

Michael Reinhardt doesn’t move. He is a mountain of a man, but he looks at her, as if amused shed try. "You want me to arrest him? Fine. Then his truck will be in your lot for at least another three hours while he is processed and his vehicle impounded." he waits a moment to see if she wants him to do it. "And then he can sue all of us, since illegal parking is not a crime anyone gets arrested for. SO while he is being processed, you call your attorney, ma'am."

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002: he laughs the rack over there say there was a two fer.. is that right 'he say curious .. Did you get that deal or does that offer apply ' he say wave around a copy of Busty black bosoms

Rory the grocery clerk gestures to the magazine turning beet red "A two for....sorry..." He pulls the magazines back out and rescans “16.75...."

Oshi Shikigami: Did you see Tatsu's latest pastel painting? It was outside, when you came in. She shys it is coming. Whatever "it" is? And she is slathering sunscreen on her for "protection"? What the... Zinc Oxide. For protection? From what, sunburn? It is all so weird.

Ryuko Shujinko: Ok, I got to think that one trough. It is a painting of some plant creature bursting forth from the ground, yes? Hummmm.

Ushi Chen rolls her eyes "Oh fine...just move the truck, and don't unload it to the store. Put it by the stairs to the apartment."

Mitch Newmore: ...hears the shouting from outside and looks toward it...then back at the cashier...hopes whatever is going on outside is done before he gets there. He  looks out there again.

Michael Reinhardt nods to the driver. "You heard the woman. Unload by the stairs and clear out." He’s heard about a C.O.D and rephrases. "On second thought, just clear out. I believe the lady mentioned she was not accepting the delivery, in which case you need to return it to the sender. Have a nice day, sir."

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 smiles handing over the money happily 'thank ya kindly "

Rory the grocery clerk pushes the man's bags at him like he's eager to get rid of them and smiles awkwardly at the next customer "Hello....how are you....today..." he stammers, glancing outside and then back.

Oshi Shikigami: What do you think? Enough for now? We can always get more. The fridge is good, but only holds so much.

Ryuko Shujinko: Yeah, I think I will get this rice cooker though. You never know. Besides you can do mac and cheese in it!  LOL

Ushi Chen looks surprised and delighted by the officer's words and then wags her finger "Next time he'll cuff you!"

Mitch Newmore: "What do you mean my credit card is rejecting the charge?"

Michael Reinhardt glances at Oshi then back to the driver. "Maybe shoot you too. Now clear off."

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 watches through the window seeing if the hornets have left .. ie the coast was clear looking at his mag as he waits

Rory the grocery clerk looks at the man about his card "Uh...do you want to try again?"

Oshi puts an odd assortment of foodstuffs on the counter and digs into her purse for payment.

Ryuko, looks a Oshi turns his head, and says, this is on me. I am the person adding to your grocery list!

Ryuko Shujinko: he slaps a card on the counter.

Ushi Chen looks at the officer in aw "What's your name? I like you. You're not an idiot like some of the people in this town.'

Mitch Newmore: uhhh, yes, try again please. ...starts to perspire, gets out his only other credit card, the expiration date in May 2016. does that mean it’s no good now? Or it's still good now?

Michael Reinhardt turns to her. "Michael Reinhardt, ma'am. At your service." he introduces himself.

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 sees it simmer down and tucks his mag back in the bag and start for the door "

Rory the grocery clerk reaches to swipe the card uncertainly "Ok this one?" He pushes the pin pad to the man "We'll give it a try eh?"

Oshi Shikigami: I am going to have to stuff those many 'K' of Yen, into your unmentionables, if you do that! LOL and she blushes when she realizes what she said sounds like.

Ryuko Shujinko: UM, Uh, That will not be at all necessary! he give a mock blush and fidgets with his card.

Ushi Chen reaches out a hand to shake "Ushi Chen. That was my son's stuff. He got evicted and his landlord shipped it all here. I don't know what the hell is going on with him."

Ryuko Shujinko: "Sir I beseech you, let me pay!"

Mitch Newmore: ...breathes a sigh of relief as the same credit card works fine this time. "21st century" he says to the cashier, "Oh that modern technology, eh?" he smiles at the clerk, smiles at the others in line...looks outside toward where the hollering was before and slowly edges toward the door

Michael Reinhardt takes the small elderly hand and shakes. "Well, he'll be getting it all back. If it comes again, just keep refusing to accept it, Miss Chen." he replies politely.

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 walk tentatively passed Ms Chen and walks toward the pier

Rory the grocery clerk watches the one guy go "Have a good one." and then turns to the people arguing over who pays and waits to see how they resolve as he starts swiping stuff through slowly "Hello. Find everything OK today? We take Mastercard, Visa and Debit as well as Canadian cash.."

Oshi is digging through a pile of yen, looking for Canadian cash.

Ryuko pulls out a multicolored stack of Canadian cash, and slaps it on the counter. “Well, just ‘because’.”He says with a smile.

Ushi Chen nods and then lets go "Thank you." she sees the blond man walk past and glances briefly at him. Looking back in she sees a line up in the store ebbing away "And at least it didn't hurt business too much." She nods to the man in the orange shirt with a bit of a sour look.

Oshi Shikigami: You booger! Why did you do that? I am hosting you!

Mitch Newmore: ...passes Ushi on the way out, smiles, even though she has a distressed look on her face...nods at the officer...heads home

Michael Reinhardt nods. “Well it all took place outside and it’s all sorted now." he nods to her. "I need to get back on the beat, ma'am. You have a fantastic day, alright."

Oshi Shikigami: They both bundle up their items, and walk out of the store, and seem to have an animated conversation just starting!

Wolfgang.Pots @hypergrid.org:8002 turn to see Oshi and knocks on the glass and waves madly

Rory the grocery clerk gave change as needed and wished them a good day and then exhaled, looking outside.

Ushi Chen: You too Michael Reinhardht.

Oshi Shikigami: Oshi looks at wolf confusion on her face, and in a moment, smiles and waves at him. Turns and continues on her way.

Puff the Magic Dragon

Anna walks through the town of Cedar Point at night, dimly lit by the street lights and warm glows from the windows of residents and businesses. The police station that never sleeps is a bustle of activity with officers walking around inside talking to each other. She cranes to see if Tamela is on duty but there’s no sign of her. Instead she sees Angie Johnson barking at a beefy young bald cop who Anna recognizes as Cody Nault from Tams’s complaints about him. She chuckles to herself and keeps walking, rounding the corner now and heading to the door of the Mariner’s Pub.

She would dearly love to be going home to her bed and not to a second bar. She was supposed to meet her brother Lee at the Black Hole but it seemed they got their messages crossed and he had come here instead. She had waited for some time and run into Oshi and her friend Ruyko talking about some very complicated mathematics and model rockets. Anna suspected there might be a bit of a spark between the two of them and if it ignited, they would be perfect for each other. Partly due to the fact that no one else she’d ever met could talk about that much math for fun.

Anna pushed the door open into a sparsely populated beverage room. There were two old men in the corner Anna recognized at once; Hiroshi Yamada and Yuki Tanaka. Hiroshi, or Hiro as he was usually called, was Stephanie’s father and the long time beloved sushi chef of the town before he recently had to retire because of a heart condition. Hiro looked like and older version of Garrett but carried himself more confidently through age and experience. Yuki was the tiny man who ran the fish and chip stand at the docks. Yuki had run it forever it seemed, like a one man show of crispy oily goodness. He was a stocky little man with round wire frame glasses, a cheerful round face and a golf style cap. Yuki was known for speaking with his hands and was gesturing wildly in the air at Hiro who seemed to be replying with minimal words and facial expression. A moment later they both burst out laughing and Yuki smacked the table three times with his stubby palm down open hand. A half full pint almost careened over and Hiro just caught it in time, making both of them laugh even harder. They saw Anna and smiled at her, Yuki waving while wiping at his eyes and Hiro holding up what was left of his beer in a toast gesture. 

Anna shook her head and smiled at them and gave a little wave back before walking up to Deidre at the bar “You let those guys in here but my brother got kicked out? Geez…what did he do this time?”

Deidre rolled her eyes and grinned “Those two are harmless Anna, just a couple old goofballs reliving their glory days. I wish I could say Lee didn’t deserve it but he was kind of an ass to his date. They got in a fight and then she switched tables and told him to leave her alone and he wouldn’t. He slammed back quite a few rum and cokes. I would have kept count better but we were hopping in here and I don’t think he’d eaten anything before drinking. It hit him hard and fast and it wasn’t pretty. Mick from the flower stand held him back while the girl got in a cab and took off. Then he tried to pick a fight with Mick and just wouldn’t shut up so I told him to get out. Probably wouldn’t have taken as long if Eien was on tonight. I’m not very tough looking but I did tell him I’d call the cops next.”

Anna sighs “Ugh I’m so sorry. Was it that hairdresser girl? Where did he go…or which way if you saw…”

Deidre “Yeah the blonde…Candy or something right? I didn’t watch Anna, I’m sorry. He didn’t pay his tab either but I don’t care.”

Anna feels her face flush in embarrassment “It’s Brandy, the girlfriend…or ex maybe…I dunno. Shoot, let me pay it so you’re not out….” She pulls her backpack around and fishes her wallet out of the small pocket.

Deidre sheepishly digs out the bill “You can’t choose your family. This isn’t on you….but I probably have to make this disappear from my boss’s radar if it doesn’t get paid so I’ll take your money. It’s twenty seven fifty.”

Anna quietly nods and pulls out her debit card, wishing her brother had chosen to get wasted on beer instead. Tired and fed up now, she left the Mariner’s, stopping under the awning of the hotel to send a text to Lee.

Where the hell are you now? I just paid your stupid tab!

She held onto her phone and took a few steps down the side walk looking around the streets to see if he was out walking. Suddenly she heard someone yell her name from diagonally across the road. It was unmistakably Lee calling her.

“Anna I’m up here!”

Anna squinted in the direction of his voice, confused and then saw him leaning out of his former apartment window and took off running towards him “Jesus Lee! Be careful!”

She stood right under the window and Lee ducked back in so it was just his head sticking out, his black brown hair cascading messily around his face as he looked down.

“Can you believe that fucker changed my locks? All my shit is still in here!”

Anna’s eyes went wide “Oh my god Lee! What are you doing in there? You got evicted. You need to come out now.”

Lee waived her off like she was being ridiculous “Nah it’s fine. Come in, I’ll put on tea. “Now he descended into the ludicrous “Ave ye got any crumpets Governor?”

Anna curses under her breath and heads quickly to his door. She finds it open with obvious pry marks around the lock and cringes before bolting up the stairs “Lee, we have to go. This is breaking and entering. He could press charges for this. You could go to jail!”

Lee is in his kitchen holding a bottle of rum over his tea pot “So that’s a no on the crumpets then?”

Anna’s green eyes flash “Are you fucking hearing me? Jail! You have a kid and a job….Lee seriously! Let’s go!”

Lee shrugs and decides not to bother with the tea pot and instead takes a swig from the bottle before saying “Alright, but first you need to see my mural. It’s a legacy of my rental here, a beautiful fucking legacy.”

Anna’s expression shifts from anger to slightly horrified curiosity “What?!”

Lee takes his sister by the hand and leads her to the living room. He’s drawn and written extensively on a large section of the main wall with what looks like a black sharpie marker. There is a caricature of a cartoon dragon in a bathtub smoking a giant dooby with the words underneath saying “Be Kind Smoke Pot Take Baths”

Anna’s jaw falls open and she just stares at it for almost a full minute before muttering “Jesus Fucking Christ Lee.”

Lee takes it as a huge compliment and beams gleefully “I KNOW RIGHT!”

She face palms and then says exhaustedly “Pack some clothes, I’m checking you in.”

“Checking me in where?” Lee inquires.

“I should consider the nut house but for now, the B&B will do.”