[ QUOTE ]
Out of the corner of her eye, she can see another table. Steve!
Amadeo, leave him alone! She struggles frantically against her bonds. She can hear them strain, but she cant break free
Dr. Giacomo, Paul says diffidently. I dont think we want to do anything that might wake him up. Theres something about his bio-readings that I dont understand
Have no fear, Paul. We will learn all about him once Manx is through with him.
Leave Steve alone! Mynx howls.
Steve? Paul says. Did she say Steve?
Steve is bound as Mynx herself is bound, but he has yet to wake up. By twisting her neck so hard that it hurts, she can see him now. He looks so vulnerable
God, how could she have let anyone get so close to her? Hes going to die because of her! Steve! Steve!
Mynx? Steve asks groggily, shaking his head.
Steve? Paul is frantically consulting a PDA. Steve
Berry?
Thats my name, Steve shakes his head. Where am I?
Dont hurt him! Please dont hurt him! Mynx hates the weakness in her voice but she cant stop herself.
Mynx? He stares at Manx who seems transfixed by his face. He glances around the lab and struggles against his bonds. Mynx!
His eyes begin to crackle with electricity.
Amadeo, you fool! Thats Synapse! Thats Synapse! Paul rushes forward.
And thats when the lightning strikes.
[/ QUOTE ]
Ay this point, it's rather ridiculous to say the cat's out of the bag.
Now Synapse's main problem will be the cat's reaction to being in the bag in the first place.
I hope he has lots of catnip available. 
I've actually grown somewhat fond of Synapse over the course of this story.
I hope he can think of something! 
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
Welp, they're screwed.
"Don't you know dead is spelled m-e-n-t-a-l in CoH? - SapphireShot
[ QUOTE ]
I've actually grown somewhat fond of Synapse over the course of this story.
I hope he can think of something!
[/ QUOTE ]
Think of something? I would think a bit of TRUTH would help more than any slick phrasing at this point; though they may have to wait a little bit before having that conversation.
There are a couple dozen people who may not like their nice, clean lab being trashed.
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I've actually grown somewhat fond of Synapse over the course of this story.
I hope he can think of something!
[/ QUOTE ]
Think of something? I would think a bit of TRUTH would help more than any slick phrasing at this point; though they may have to wait a little bit before having that conversation.
There are a couple dozen people who may not like their nice, clean lab being trashed.
[/ QUOTE ]
At times like this, I like to remember Batman's line to Lois Lane from the "World's Finest" episode of Superman: TAS.
"Now, I never actually said I wasn't Batman..."
/em popcorn
More, please?
There is an art, or, rather, a knack to flying. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss. --The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Steven Berry has awakened to find himself in hell once more.
Hell for him has long been a Crey laboratory. Its his nightmares come to life. For a minute, panic threatens to overwhelm him.
But then a voice brings him back to himself. A voice pleading for mercy on his behalf. A voice that seems terrified
for him.
Mynxs voice.
Hes drugged, but his metabolism has already kicked into high gear. Fear turns to anger and anger turns to power. He can feel his eyes burning with electricity.
Amadeo, you fool! Thats Synapse! Thats Synapse! The Crey scientist has a hypo in hand and hes rushing at Steve like a man whose house is on fire.
But hes already too late.
Hes bound hand and foot, but thats not a real problem for him. Lightning flashes from his fingertips and stops the scientist dead in his tracks. He does the herky-jerky dance and then falls flat on his face.
Steve! Mynx cries, astounded. Youre Synapse! You lied to me!
With a mental shrug he short circuits the restraints holding them to the operating tables. Now is probably not the best time for us to be talking about this, Mynx.
Manx! Amadeo screams. Kill him! Kill him now!
Mynx stretches and stares at her double as she advances on Steve
no, on Synapse. She tenses her muscles, readying herself to leap into combat
And then she sees Amadeo.
Mynx growls.
Amadeo pales and spits out an epithet. Stop her! For Gods sake, stop her! And he bolts out of the lab.
Mynx growls and leaps after him, popping her claws.
Mynx! Synapse readies himself to run after her, but hes suddenly struck by a black and gold clad freight train in female form.
Shes small, but she bowls him over and he finds himself flat on his back with her hidden face staring at him once more. Hi there. Im Synapse. My friends call me Syn. You know, there are a lot more interesting things we can do
She pops her claws and strikes.
Only Synapses super fast reflexes enable him to turn his head enough to dodge the blow. Her claws strike deep into the metal of the floor, denting it.
Let me guess. Youre the strong silent homicidal type of girl. He spins himself around like a whirlwind, tossing her off and jumping back to his feet. An electric fence should keep you out of trouble
She leaps out of it as nimbly as Mynx had done weeks ago.
Well, fudge. He dodges again, but she comes close enough this time to rip his shirt right off his body.
Oh, well. It was a birthday gift from Ray. Straight off the rack of Nerds R Us. Small loss.
I dont want to hurt you
Manx or whatever your name is. I dont suppose youd be willing to give yourself up?
She leaps again.
He dodges, but this time his left arm is clipped by a freeze ray fired by a Cryo Scientist. Hey, do you mind? Super powered battle going on here! Wait your turn!
He dashes forward and clotheslines the Scientist with his frozen arm, shattering the ice in the process.
Manx jumps forward again, this time scoring on his side.
Synapse spits out a curse and claps his hands together with a burst of lightning that knocks her flat on her back. Youre really starting to annoy me!
The Riot Guards and black suited Agents begin firing at him.
Oh fine. You all just have to get your licks in too, eh?
Hurling ball lightning at the Riot Guards takes almost all of them out at once. He races to the Agents. Leaping up, he smashes his hands down on one of them in a thunder strike attack that knocks them off their feet and temporarily out of this world.
Who says a blaster cant pick butt? He stops and puts a hand to his side to check the wound that Manx had given him
.
And then she collides with him and smashes him into the wall. Her claws rake his chest, digging deeply into the flesh.
Synapse screams. Ive only got one chance! If I dont take her out Im dead! The only thing that might save me now is thunderous blast!
Going past the pain, he focuses on the power inside him and unleashes it once more.
Manxs body twists and writhes in the full fury of the blast and falls to her knees.
Synapse slides to the floor. Thank God that worked
She looks at him. She puts her hands to her head and shakes it gently.
Or not.
She brings her claws to his throat.
Synapse looks at her, waiting.
And she retracts the claws. Reaching up, she takes hold of the gold and black mask that covers her face and takes it off.
The face that looks back at him is completely hairless, lacking even eyebrows, but its a face that he knows well. Mynxs face.
She takes hold of his face and kisses him on the lips. Smiling, she gets up, and runs out of the room.
Well, that was unexpected. Synapse groans. I have to get up and stop Mynx before she does something shell regret.
A door slides open that he hadnt noticed before. In the doorway stands a man. A very large man.
Oh, I wouldnt worry about that, Steven. Im quite sure that we can put a stop to young Ms. Stevens actions before she causes too much harm.
Synapse shuts his eyes and sighs. Hello, Hopkins. Long time no see
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
Mynx is hunting.
Katherine Stevens fear is gone. Her concern for Steven Berry is gone. Nothing remains to her now except the hatred, and the hunt.
Amadeo Giacomo is running.
He is running for his life. Anger is gone. The desire for revenge is gone. All that remains now is the white hot terror of a man that knows that something terrible is after him.
Stop her! He orders to every Riot Guard or Agent that he finds in the hallways. Stop her! Kill her!
But they dont stop her. They cant stop her. Nothing can stop her now.
She slams heads into walls. She claws weapons into pieces with a blow of her mighty claws. She slaps, slams, punches, kicks, and claws her way through his men as though they dont exist.
And then they stop listening to him. They stop fighting for him. They see her coming, and they turn and run before her. They run for their lives as he is running.
But she doesnt want them. She only wants him.
If I can just make it out of the complex Ill be safe! Shell never find me once Im in the city! Ill be safe! Ill be safe and Ill hunt her down againand the next time Ill kill her where she stands! Yes, next time Ill just kill her
When he reaches the elevators, he realizes there will be no next time.
Locked! He frantically punches the button, but the elevators stubbornly refuse to open. No! No! Open, damn you! Open!
But they dont open. Hes been locked out.
Hopkins! You son of ayou locked me out!
Looks like youve run out of friends, Amadeo. Her claws extend and retract rhythmically as she steps closer to him. Her eyes are narrow slits. Her face is a mask. It looks like youve run out of time!
Katherine, dont do this. You know that you dont want to do this. He presses his back against the elevator, holding his hands up in a gesture of surrender. This isnt who you are.
Its not? Isnt this what you built me to be, Amadeo? A monster? A killer? She reaches him and rips his shirt open with one hand. Katherine Stevens wouldnt have done anything like this, I agree. But Im not Kat Stevens anymore. Im Mynx. A freak. A monster. And you made me that way.
Katherine---
Her claws slide down the front of his chest, just breaking the skin. Blood immediately begins to flow from the slight wounds.
Dont call me that, Amadeo. Call me Mynx.
Katherine
The claws dig deeper this time. Mynx!
Mynx! Mynx! Dont do this! Dont kill me! Please dont kill me!
I like the way you beg, Amadeo. Do it some more. This time, on your knees. Beg me not to kill you on your knees and maybe Ill let you live. Maybe.
He drops to his knees. Please dont kill me!
I begged too, Amadeo. Do you remember? I begged you not to hurt me. I begged you to let me go. You didnt listen. Why should I listen to you now?
He starts to cry. Please--!
She draws her claws back. At least Ill be quick, Amadeo. I promise you that.
Synapse! The word comes to him like a prayer. Synapse!
He cant hear you now, Amadeo. Hes not here.
You left him. With Manx. Shes you, Mynx. Everything you are with no humanity at all left in her. Shell kill him, Mynx. Shell kill him unless you stop her.
Hes a hero. He can take care of himself.
Can you be sure of that? Maybe shes killing him right now. Maybe shes got him on his knees like you have me right at this moment. Maybe hes begging
She slaps him with a backhanded blow. Shut up!
But he doesnt shut up. Its his only chance. Whats it going to be, Mynx? Kill me or save him? Take a life or save one? He smiles then despite his terror. Are you the monster I made you or something else?
She stares at him long enough to leave him wondering if hes going to die after all. Then
This isnt over, Amadeo! Youre going to pay for what you did to me! I swear youre going to pay for what you did! She turns and runs back the way they had come.
Amadeo almost sobs with relief as she leaves. Next time, Mynx. Itll be different next time. He forces himself to his feet and begins walking towards a side hallway. Emergency exit. Ill get out. Ill be safe. And the next time, youll pay for all of this. Oh how youll pay
And then he hears the sound again; the sound of claws extending and retracting.
I thought we had this conversation, Mynx He turns. Oh, Manx. Did you kill Synapse already?
She doesnt answer him. She cant, of course. She just walks towards him, extending and retracting her claws.
Wheres your mask, Manx? I didnt give you permission to take it off!
Shes smiling now. Hes never seen her smile before. Stop, Manx! Dont come any closer!
She doesnt stop.
I told you to stop! He yanks the remote out of his belt and savagely thumbs the activation button. Stop!
She doesnt stop.
He glances down at the remote and his eyes widen in horror at what he sees on the tiny screen: Pain Implant Deactivated.
No. Oh no. He turns to run.
He doesnt get far.
No, Manx! No! Please And he starts screaming.
Eventuallya very long time laterthe screaming stops.
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
ok. Synapse's electriity deactivated the pain implant. That's why Manx kissed him... maybe.
Now the question is what did manx do to our favorite doctor?
I'm not worried about Synapse meeting an old 'buddy'. He doesn't know it, but he has reinforcements coming and I doubt his 'friend' can handle BOTH of them.
[ QUOTE ]
Heh.
[/ QUOTE ]
My sentiments exactly. 
#69397 Get Grog a Drink!
#155312 No Good Deed Goes Unrewarded
#229565 Take Back the Park! (lowbie friendly)
Praetor of the [url="http://www.forgottenlegion.net"]Forgotten Legion[/url] SG and mod for the HUB player community. All hail the mighty Grog!
Do NOT tick off any catgirls, or feline based characters. You'll pay for it in the end, painfully.
"Don't you know dead is spelled m-e-n-t-a-l in CoH? - SapphireShot
[ QUOTE ]
If I can just make it out of the complex Ill be safe! Shell never find me once Im in the city! Ill be safe!
[/ QUOTE ]
Not very smart of him. Appearently he forgot WHO and WHAT he's running from. The city would favor HER, not him.
She could follow his scent or follow on the rooftops.
She could leap over many obstructions he would have to go around.
She is truly better much prepared to chase him in the city than he is to flee from her.
Of course, not everyone thinks clearly when their life is on the line.
Hopkins is a big man. Tall, broad, and possessed of a glacial temperament. He wears a finely tailored suit, but the fine lines cant disguise the muscles and power of the man.
Steve groans and tries to get to his feet. So how have you been, Hopkins? Can I call you Hoppy? I havent seen you in ages.
Call me what you wish, Steven. More Crey begin filing through the room behind Hopkins. The big man pays no more attention to them than he would a gnat. It looks like youve got yourself in quite the pickle. Injured, alone, your power drained from your fight with Giacomos creation. I dont imagine youve been this weak for ages. A prime opportunity.
A Medic kneels beside Steven and waves his medical scanner at him. I dont like the looks of that wound, Mr. Hopkins. We should take care of it immediately. If he doesnt receive care soon hes going to need a transfusion.
Ill let you know when Mr. Berry will receive assistance, Simmons. Check on our employees. Pay particular attention to young Summerfield. Without his constant reports, this situation could have gotten quite out of hand.
Yes, sir. The Medic looks at Synapse one more time and then walks over to the scientist that Steve had originally stunned.
So, Hoppy. What was going on here? Was Mynx part of some kind of super soldier plan of the Countesss?
The Countess is always looking for a way to improve the world, Steven. The sunglasses make it impossible to read Hopkins expression. The Countess will be glad to make your acquaintance once more. In all the years since, we have not been able to duplicate Beins experiments. There is much we can learn from you.
Steve coughs and grins impudently. The Countess could have just asked me over for dinner. I would have been willing to tell her anything I coulda woman who fills a dress like she does could get me to do just about anything for her.
An almost imperceptible frown crosses Hopkins face. You never do know when to be quiet do you, Steven? As I recall, thats how it all began for you in the first place.
Steve forces himself to his feet, holding one hand to his wounded side and leaning heavily on the wall in order to stand. I wont let you get me back on another one of those tables, Hoppy. Ill die first.
I dont recall asking your permission, Steven.
Steves right hand starts to spark. Im warning you, Hoppy!
Hopkins hands begin to glow with energy. Oh do be serious, Steven. Do you think that I would get this close to you if you had anything like a chance against me?
Ah, doing a little augmentation on yourself, Hoppy? I guess you werent man enough for the Countess before, eh?
Hopkins frowns again. You really are very annoying, Steven.
So Ive been told, Hoppy. I dont think I can run half a dozen feet, but Im going to have to try it. If he gets his hands on me
Leave him alone!
Claws extended, Mynx runs and jumps into the lab, landing in front of Steve like a mother tiger protecting her cub. Touch him and die!
Mynx
Hello, Ms. Stevens. We have not been properly introduced. I am Mr. Hopkins. I hold a number of positions under the Countess. He pauses and glares at Steves impudent laughter. I must say that you have far exceeded our initial expectations. To elude capture for as long as you did is a most impressive feat.
Did you order this? Mynxs voice is soft, dangerous. Did you tell Giacomo to make me into what I am?
Of course he didnt, Steve says. Dont do it, Mynx. I know what youre thinking, but dont do it. You havent got a prayer. And even if you win, youll lose. Hoppy is the Countesss toady and chief flunky. He just cleans up the messes she makes.
Crey exists to make the world a better place, Ms. Stevens. Countless lives have been saved through our research and development projects. Unfortunately, sometimes science has
casualties. You may take comfort in the fact that the suffering you have experienced is not in vain. It will serve a greater good.
Mynx growls. Her legs tense. Youre worse than Amadeo.
Dr. Giacomo craves power, wealth, and fame. I do what is necessary because it is necessary. I do not take any pleasure in what was done to you, Ms. Stevens. If it had not been you it would have been someone else. I regret your pain, but I acknowledge its necessity.
Well, theres also the fact that youd do anything the Countess would ask you too because you have the spine of a jellyfish, Hoppy. Steve grits his teeth. I have to back her up. Shes going to do something stupid. I can just tell.
Hopkins frowns. You know, Steven, I am going to enjoy watching them cut you open like a Christmas turkey
Mynx jumps.
She slams into Hopkins with all the force that her legs and tiny body can generate. Perhaps if he had been expecting her attack, if he had been braced, it wouldnt have done anything. But he wasnt, and momentum sends him toppling onto his back with such force that Steves knocked off his feet.
Mynx! No!
Mynx doesnt seem to hear him. Her hands are almost a blur as she claws at Hopkins chest. The air is suddenly filled with torn bits of cloth.
The only thing that saves her from instant annihilation is that the Crey are reluctant to fire on her for fear of hitting their boss.
Are you quite finished, Ms. Stevens? Hopkins looks at her with an annoyed expression on his face. That was my favorite shirt and tie.
Mynx stares down at Hopkins chest, shaking her head in amazement at what shes seeing:
Theres not a scratch on him. Her claws have not even left so much as a mark on him.
Hopkins fist blurs with energy and the resulting blow is enough to send Mynx flying.
Steven is bleeding to death as we speak, Ms. Stevens. I have almost a hundred men with me, and more are coming along all the time. Even if you could defeat me by some miracle, what makes you think youd leave this lab alive?
Mynx growls in her throat. You deserve to die!
There are those whod say that, Hopkins acknowledges, ripping the remains of his shirt and jacket off. But are you willing to die yourself?
I wouldnt ask her that if I were you, Hoppy, Steve says. He painfully climbs to his feet once more. But theres one thing for sureyou arent taking either of us back under the knife again. Not while were breathing.
Hopkins sighs. Very well, Steven. If thats the way it must be He makes a gesture with his hands and the lab doors begin to close.
Run, Mynx. Steves free hand begins to glow with electricity once more. Ill hold them off while you get away.
Im not the one with super speed, Steve. You run. Ill hold them off.
Youre an awfully stubborn woman.
And youre a pretty sneaky guy. Dont think Ive forgotten the trick you played on me!
Can we have this discussion sometime when were not fighting for our lives?
Hopkins clears his throat. As I was saying
this really doesnt have to be such an unpleasant experience. If the two of you simply surrender I promise to make the procedure as painless as possible.
Hoppy? Go suck an egg. Steve tosses a ball of lightning at him that knocks the big man down to his knees.
Mynx grins and a jump kick to the chin knocks Hopkins flat on his back again.
Kill them. Hopkins does not sound angry or particularly upset. At best, hes just annoyed.
Youd think we could at least get a rise out of him before he kills us, Steve thinks wryly as he turns to face his would-be assassins.
As one, the Crey Riot Guards and Agents raise and arm their weapons.
And then the lab door which was just closed is ripped open like a piece of cellophane.
Manticore dives through the door and rolls to his feet, with his bow drawn.
Positron rockets through the door. Synapse!
Sister Psyche serenely floats into the lab.
Finally, brushing his hands together, Statesman walks into the lab like he owns it. They just dont make doors like they used to.
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Blue's Assembled Story Links
Hamina hamina hamina hamina hamina hamina hamina hamina. Thank you.
What in response to what Cuddles wrote or the latest chapter?
My COX Fanfiction:
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Mynx stares. Thats Statesman!
Yeah, I know. Steve smirks.
I thought hed be taller.
Synapse. Statesman nods in his direction. He turns to Mynx and smiles at her. Young lady, I dont believe weve met. My name is Marcus Cole, but most people call me Statesman.
Hello, sir. Mynxs awestruck voice is little more than a whisper.
What are you doing here, Statesman? For the first time, Hopkins loses his composure. To say that he looked nervous would have been an understatement.
Hello, Hopkins. Ill be with you in a minute. Positron, it looks like Synapse has been injured. Can you take a look at it?
Positron hasnt waited for permission, however. He kneels beside Steve, spamming radiant aura. You idiot. You could have been killed.
Its good to see you again too, Posi. Mynx, this is Positron.
Will he be all right? Mynx kneels beside Steve, squeezing his free hand.
Hell be fine. Positron rises to his feet, easily helping Synapse stand once more. Ive healed the wound. The blood hell have to make on his own. But hes out of danger.
Im glad to hear it, Positron. Statesman turns to Hopkins once more. Now where were we?
Youhow did you find this place?
A broken bird told me, Hopkins, Sister Psyche strides angrily up to the big man. The Countess. Where is she? I want to talk to her. Now.
Whats she talking about, Posi? Steve gets up. Hes rather enjoying the way that Hopkins is flinching from Sister Psyche. Maybe Mynx and I dont scare him, but States and Shalice sure do!
Im not sure. We got worried when you missed your checkin time and started looking for you. Some crazy homeless guy in Skyway came up to Sister Psyche and babbled to her. She led us straight here after that.
Shes away at a business conference, Hopkins sputters in reply to Sister Psyche.
I think you had better call her here, Hopkins. Statesman turns and looks at the assembled Agents and Riot Guards who are milling about uncertainly, holding their weapons in the general direction of the Freedom Phalanx. Id feel a lot better if you boys would lay those guns down. He smacks his right fist into the open palm of his left hand. The impact is like thunder. Now.
The guns clatter to the floor.
I love when he does that, Steve whispers to Mynx.
Im not going to ask you again, Hopkins. Get Countess Crey here now or we start taking this place apart! Sister Psyches eyes are filled with tears; her beautiful face is twisted in anger.
Shalice? Manticore lays a hand on her shoulder, but she brushes him off and walks away, hugging herself.
Hopkins turns from them and pulls out a cell phone. Shell be here in a minute. I really do suggest that you leave as soon as possible, though. We would have to have to press trespassing charges on the citys greatest heroes.
Trespassing charges! You kidnapped us! Mynx pops her claws. You tortured me! You made me into a freak!
I wouldnt toss unsubstantiated accusations around like that, Ms. Stevens. Hopkins smiles at her. Unless, of course, you have proof.
Manticore walks over to Mynx. Let him talk. Eventually, hell give us enough rope to hang him with. I promise you that hell go downand so will Crey.
Hopkins and Manticore match stares for a long moment, but Hopkins is the one who looks away.
So theyre just going to get away with it? Mynx asks in frustration. Everything theyve doneand we cant do anything to stop them from doing it again?
Im deeply sorry for your pain and suffering, Ms. Stevens. A woman walks out of the same door that Hopkins had used to enter the lab. But Crey Corporation is not to blame.
Countess Crey. Statesman nods in her direction, but his eyes are cold as steel.
Statesman. I want to thank you all for uncovering this horrible tragedy. The Countesss face is the perfect picture of sincerity. I had no idea that Amadeo Giacomo was performing such terrible experiments.
Yeah, right. I believe thats what you said when Bein got through with me. Steves hands are crackling with electricity.
Hopkins moves to the Countess side, staring straight into Steves eyes.
I assure you that all records and files will show that Ms. Stevens
condition is the sole responsibility of Amadeo Giacomo. He gave all the orders. His assistants had no idea that he was acting on his own.
Then where is he? Mynx asks. I left himI left him to help Steve! If hes the only one responsible, then let him take the blame!
Where is Dr. Giacomo, Countess? Statesmans face is impassive, but his eyes still remain fixed on the Countess face with laser intensity.
Im afraid that theres not much left of Dr. Giacomo, the Countess says with a small smirk on her face. We just found him
what was left of him, anyway.
Steve looks at Mynx.
I didnt! I wanted to, but I didnt! I left him to help you! I swear he was fine when I left! She looks desperately into Steves eyes. You believe me, dont you?
Yeah, yeah I do. Steve looks at Statesman. If Mynx says she didnt kill him, then she didnt do it.
He was torn up quite thoroughly, the Countess tells them.
Manx, Mynx whispers.
Thats my guess, too. Steve looks at Statesman. Giacomo claimed to have cloned Mynx here. I fought something--- someone that could have passed for her sister. Shes probably the one who got to Giacomo. Couldnt have happened to a nicer guy.
But your men found no trace of her, Countess? Statesman asks.
There was no one there but Giacomo. But he was found in an emergency exit. If this Manx person does exist, she could have used it to leave the complex. She could be in the city at this very moment. Perhaps you heroes have more important things to do than badger me for information.
We have to find her, Mynx whispers. I have to find her.
Well find her, Steve promises. Hopkins, she was wearing a uniform of some kind. Knowing you, theres bound to be some kind of tracking device in it. We need the tracker.
Cloning being illegal, Crey obviously has nothing to do with this Manx creature, the Countess says innocently. But anything like that in Dr. Giacomos lab I will gladly turn over to the authorities in the interest of public safety.
I dont need a tracking device, Mynx says. She found me. I can find her. I have to. She looks at them all one final time, then turns and runs out of the lab.
Countess, if you dont get that tracker to me right now Im going to trash this lab myself! Steve threatens.
Steve, you can barely stand, let alone fight. Let us handle this, Positron cautions.
Stuff it, Posi. Mynxs no killer, but Manx is. Theres no way that Im going to let her go out there by herself!
Countess. Sister Psyche has said nothing while the others spoke. She simply watched. Now she walks over to join them. Her eyes are red from crying, but there are no more tears.
Sister Psyche. Its good to see you again, dear. Youre looking well
all things considered.
Sister Psyche stares deeply into the eyes of Countess Crey.
Suddenly, the Countess drops to her knees, screaming.
Hopkins screams a curse and aims a punch at Sister Psyche, but his fist goes through her.
Detention field, Hopkins. You cant touch anyone or anything until I let you. This is between the Countess and myself.
Shalice
Statesman begins.
Dont try to stop me, Marcus. Im not going to kill her. I dont do that. But I am going to have a talk with her. Countess, you can hear me, cant you?
The Countess screams.
Until you say something, the pain will continue, Countess.
Ihear you! the Countess gasps.
I know what you did to him, Countess. Im not going to speak his name, but you know who Im talking about, dont you?
I didnt! It wasnt me!
Please. Spare me. You know who Im talking about, Countess. I found him. Rather, he found me. Hes done quite a good job of staying hidden from you until now, but I know that itd only be a matter of time before you found him if you made a real effort to do so. I have one word of advice for you: dont.
The Countess screams again.
Youve done enough to him. If anything happens to himif he disappears or dies under mysterious circumstances, then Im coming for you, Countess. Your little parlor tricks are nothing compared to what I can do. You understand me, dont you, Countess?
I She screams again, but forces the words out. I understand!
Good. I dont want to have this conversation again. Now get Synapse the tracking device he asked for before I get really angry.
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
Delicious. 
"If I had Force powers, vacuum or not my cape/clothes/hair would always be blowing in the Dramatic Wind." - Tenzhi
Characters
Wow! The can-can man has a real advocate in Sister Psyche.
I always considered psionics to be THE master power set (in game and in RL). Sister Psyche has proven it... again.
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Delicious.
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She thought the pain would end with the Maker, but it hasnt. It has changed, but it has not gone away.
She no longer hurts. The constant thread of agony that had been with her since she first came into being ended when the one called Synapse freed her with a burst of electricity. That pain is gone, but another has taken its place.
It began with the kiss.
She had known the name of the thing as soon as she had done it. It had been a brief contact, lasting scarcely more than an instant in time. His lips had been soft and warm. It had been
pleasant.
She keeps thinking about it. About him.
She isnt meant to know pleasure
or to give it. She isnt supposed to know what its like to kiss someone. That isnt who she is.
But it hurts to know this.
Giving pain to the Maker had felt good, felt right. That was her purpose, after all. He was not Mynx, but he had deserved pain.
Her only regret is that it ended so soon.
She wants to be free of pain. She does not want to hurt. She does not want to cause pain any longer. She wants to be free.
But her first moments of freedom showed that she could not escape her destiny.
She had barely had a chance to taste the night air when the green men found her. They had leered at her, made mocking comments in their crude manner. Her silence and lack of fear had enraged them.
They wanted something from her that she could not give them. She gave them the only thing she could.
She left her uniform with their bodies.
She is Manx. She exists to cause pain. There is nothing else for her.
The man who had met her near the bodies of the Trolls had not judged her. He had given her new clothing to wear. Dirty, but it wasnt what the Maker had given her.
He followed her when she left. When she had chosen to climb to the top of the highest building she could find, he had been waiting for her.
Little cat that cannot speak. I know what you seek. No matter how high you go, peace you will never know.
He had not been happy to say it. She could see the sympathy in his eyes. He did not create the truth; he just spoke it.
She is Manx. There is nothing else.
He does not speak again. He simply stands beside her and watches as the sun rises.
The warmth feels good on her face. She closes her eyes and when she opens them, Mynx is there before her.
Her claws pop out. Mynxs do the same.
It doesnt have to be this way. I dont want to hurt you.
She does not want to hurt Mynx. She has no choice. She is Manx. She exists to cause pain to Mynx. There is no other way.
Can Man, get away from her. Shell kill you!
It is not I who will die this day. I am simply here to see the play.
She leaps at Mynx, but Mynx moves just as quickly and she misses her charge. She skids, but does not fly off the roof. She stares at Mynx in silent anger.
They must fight. One of them must die. Cant she see that? There cant be two of them.
I can help you! Mynx cries. You dont have to be what Amadeo made you! Youre free now! You dont have to be a killer!
There is no freedom for her. She is Manx. She exists to cause pain. That is all she is; all she can be.
She leaps and Mynx does the same.
I wont fight you. I wont kill you. Theres got to be another way. We dont have to do this. Please. Let me help you, Manx.
Her eyes narrow. Mynx will not fight her, and she is too fast for Manx to catch her. She must make Mynx come to her.
Now she knows why the Can Man is here.
She leaps againbut not at Mynx. She knocks the Can Man down to the roof and draws her claws. She cuts him. Once. Twice.
Mynx tackles her before she can strike a third time.
The two of them wrestle on the roof, clawing, snapping at each other with their teeth.
This is the way it is supposed to be. This is the way she is supposed to be. Kisses and sunlight are not for her; this is the only destiny she has or will ever have.
Mynx manages to kick free and they stare at each other. Mynx is bleeding from a long gash on her stomach. The gown she is still wearing is turning red with her blood. She glares at Manx defiantly. You want me, come and get me!
Manx leaps.
Mynx dodges.
And Manx goes sailing off the roof.
No! Mynx cries.
Manx has just enough time to look at Mynx one final time. She smiles at her.
She is Manx. She has brought pain to Mynx. She can rest now.
For the first time in her life, she is free.
She smiles all the way down.
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
Damn. I thought it would end something like this, but I was hoping it wouldn't.
At least Manx finally got release.
Damn that doc.
If Manx had a little life experiance, maybe it could have been different. That was NOT to be.
Now which story arc is that doc in? red or blue? I have several toons I'm itching to show to him.
Amadeo
Amadeo, wake up.
His head hurts. Curiously, its the only thing that hurts.
Amadeo
The voice is gentle, but insistent. It will not be denied. Cannot be denied.
Amadeo Giacomo opens his eyes and finds himself staring straight into the face of the Countess Crey. She smiles at him. Ah, its good to see youre awake. Do you remember what happened, Amadeo?
Mynx
Manx
Claws
Theres something wrong with his voice. It sounds
mechanical.
No, Amadeo. Im afraid thats just a dream spawned by the delirium of your condition. The Countess lays a gentle hand on his forehead, stroking it gently. Dont you remember? The radical heroes who broke into your lab as you were working on your experiments? The explosion
how can you not remember the explosion?
Of course. How could he not remember the explosion? I
I remember now, Countess. Manx and Mynx
even now, the dream is fading. His thoughts are sinking into quicksand. But whats wrong with me? Why cant I feel my arms or legs? Whats wrong with my voice?
Amadeo, you should rest. The Countess seems reluctant to say more.
Whats wrong with me?! Countess, tell me please! He cant believe hes shouting at the Countess. Shes always been so kind and gentle with him
I suppose youll have to see for yourself. Doctors, bring the mirror.
A couple of doctors bring a rolling mirror over to Amadeo
he stares into it for a full moment before he reacts.
Then he screams. Again and again, in his strange new voice, he screams.
Finally, the Countess rushes to his side and gently strokes his forehead again. Its all right, Amadeo. Its all right.
Ill kill them! Ill kill them all!
Its too late for that, Amadeo. The heroes who caused your injuries died in the explosion. Its taken weeks, but the greatest minds of Crey have managed to save your life
if not your body.
You call this living, Countess?
He knows now why his voice sounds so odd to him. Its an electronic reproduction of a human voice. Lifelike, but not his own. The only thing thats still his own is his head
for everything else is gone.
His head is mounted on a pedestal attached to a bank of life support machinery. His voice box is gone along with most of his neck. His trained eye can see the equipment that breathes for him, supplies his brain with oxygen, blood, and nutrients.
I am sorry, Amadeo. He can hear the regret in the Countess voice. But I could not let you die while I had the power to prevent it. You know how sacred life is to me.
Countess, of what use am I to you? He hates the thought of being useless.
You can still help me make this world a better place, Amadeo. You know about the experimental armor division? We will adapt a Crey Protector suit into life support machinery for you. You will have hands again, Amadeo. Your genius will be able to continue to work to make the world a better place. I promise you, you will still be of use to Crey.
Thank you, Countess. If you dont mind, I would like to be alone now. He wants to cry. Thats the only human thing left to him, and he wants to do it in private.
Of course, Amadeo. Of course. Rest now. We will speak later. She kisses his cheek and then gestures for the doctors to leave with her.
Amadeo watches her go gratefully. He had lost everything else; now he exists solely to work for the greater glory of the Crey Corporation.
It worked, Hopkins notes when the Countess walks back into her office.
Of course it worked. The Countess wipes her mouth with a wet cloth and applies a fresh coat of lipstick. Do you doubt my abilities?
Never, Countess. He is proud of the fact that he no longer uses her real name, even in private. One never knew when someone might be listening. Your psychic powers are obviously growing ever stronger.
Thank you, Hopkins. He cant remember the last time she used his first name. But obviously I will have to step up the program. If I had just been a little stronger then I could have showed Sister Psyche who the real master psi of Paragon City is.
It was the first time since it happened that the Countess had referred to her humiliation at the hands of Sister Psyche. Hopkins himself could scarcely stifle his own rage when he thought of it. To have seen her stricken down and not be able to defender her--!
Sister Psyche would pay for that. He would see to it. Manticore, he whispers to himself.
What did you say?
Nothing, Countess. Nothing. Sister Psyche might think her powers made her immune to anything that Hopkins could do, but there were other ways to hurt her. He had seen the way she looked at Manticore. When the time was right, he would strike backnot at the Psi herself, but at the man she so obviously cared for. Then she would know what it was like to see someone hurt the one sheNo, best not to think about that, especially not around the Countess. I am curious as to why you put such effort into saving Giacomos life.
After giving Mynx the opportunity to kill him in the first place, you mean? The Countess leans back in her chair and looks out the window. Amadeo has his uses, but I am still a woman. Mynx deserved the chance to repay him for her torture. It was also a test.
A test?
Yes. We wont waste any further resources pursuing Mynx. If she was not willing to kill Amadeo after everything he has done to her, then she will never make a useful assassin. Still, the experiment was not a total loss, was it?
No, Hopkins agrees. We still have the DNA samples that Giacomo used to create his Manx and the data her uniform recorded. Amadeo himself made an admirable scapegoat, and his death means that we can still make use of his genius without having to lose him to the authorities.
And without his raging hormones, he should be much more predictable, the Countess observes with a smile. Well reassign him to the Mind Control project, though. I think that young Paul Summerfield has demonstrated sufficient cool under fire to be given full authority to run the Revenant Hero Project. His work with Dr. Friedkin wont last much longer anyway. The Countess absentmindedly licks her lips. In fact, I think Ill tell him about his promotion over dinner
tonight. You can have the night off, Hopkins.
Thank you, Countess, Hopkins says stiffly. Is there anything else?
No, I think thats all I need for you at the moment. Ill see you at lunch.
Very well, Countess. Until then. Hopkins turns and walks out as though nothing in the world touches him at all ...
My COX Fanfiction:
Blue's Assembled Story Links
WONDERFUL!!!
The doc got almost everything he deserved. Almost? Well, he could still use the mirror and hear sounds.
THAT would have made his fate full.
I know I can be a mean witch; but that doc deserved a mean fate.
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Hee hee!
Amadeo, you fool! Thats Synapse! Thats Synapse! Paul rushes forward.
And thats when the lightning strikes.
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Oh, snap!
#69397 Get Grog a Drink!
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