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You're uh, one of the more tranquil people I've seen finding themselves on the ship.

[The human at the other end of the video link is in his mid-30s, military in his bearing if the uniform isn't giveaway enough, but seems to be a fairly good natured sort himself. There's a little weariness hanging in the set of his shoulders, the last hints of dark circles under his eyes, but he's certainly a much more pleasant sight now than some earlier arrivals got.

Currently he's lifted a hand to rub at the back of his neck in an awkward, established habit.]

Although... departing might be a bit of a problem. The ship crashed ages before any of us here now woke up, and we don't have a clue who the original crew was, or why they'd gathered us all up. So, uh, repayment might be a little tricky.

If you'd be interested in helping out anyway, we've got a long list of things to do.

[A human! Always interesting to deal with them, and crises always seem to follow. Walker glances back at him through the video feed, looking overtly fascinated - then concerned, judging by his general 'wear and tear'.]

Yes, I quickly realized that I will probably not be leaving so soon. So, here I will stay.

[Walker's already busy; Kaidan might have to squint a little at the strange, blue shine coming across the feed, coupled by the sound of voices - grateful voices - as this fellow proceeds through a small crowd of people.]

May I ask your name?

[Kaidan is known to produce his own strange blue shine, but biotic energy doesn't look anything like this, and usually people it's applied to (outside of certain specific circumstances) aren't terribly grateful about it. He peers at Walker with some head-tilted fascination of his own]

Kaidan. Uh. Major Kaidan Alenko, if you want the whole thing. And that doesn't look like biotic energy to me -- what are you doing?

[The fact that the voices sound happy are what's kept his voice neutral-to-friendly rather than overtly suspicious -- the locals can certainly use a little relief at this point.]

Edited 2012-07-09 02:07 (UTC)

[Walker's attention had been somewhat divided - half his time was spent looking back into his communicator, engaging the good Major as much as possible, while other half greeting and speaking briefly with others. Best not to keep this up, though, lest Kaidan think him rude.]

Ah, I am trying my best to heal some of the citizens gathered around this ship, Major. These people...it seems many of them have been suffering lately...

[He sounds a little dismayed, but his smile hardly falters. He even manages a short laugh.]

I can see that I'll be very busy while I am here.~

Healer?

[Kaidan hasn't encountered aliens that can do such a thing before, but when you live in a world with telepathic aliens and you yourself can lift things with your mind... well, the borders of possibility reach a little farther out.]

Damn. We'd be more than grateful for whatever help you can offer. Don't spend yourself too thin, though. We had a wildfire go through two weeks ago, and there was a stampede of some of the larger local wildlife as a result -- building collapses, injuries... we're at the point where the most critical have either been treated or didn't pull through, and we're trying to rebuild now.

Do you need anything? For most of us, using abilities like that can put a real drain on your system.

[Hearing more of the story - the fire and stampede - seems to give Walker another little jab to the chin; he lowers his head briefly, clearly concerned, but he's back up and looking resolute again in a flash.]

I see. No, for now, I'm at full strength, and the people here are regaining Hope. I cannot heal everyone, but I will make sure my presence here is felt.

[Simply putting out the individual fires wasn't going to suffice, though. Walker knew he'd be better off containing the source.]

Major. What can you tell me about this planet? No need for the whole story, but any important details would be appreciated.

[Kaidan catches the capital letter applied to the quality, but, aside from a curious glimmer of his eyes, he doesn't pursue inquiries. Instead he nods assent to the question, and pauses a moment to gather his own thoughts and to twiddle with a setting on his communicator.]

I should warn you that I haven't been here more than a month myself, so my information's not complete. But this planet is called Verdana, and it has a sister planet that engaged in an inter-generational war with the population here. Some of the society retreated to live in cities behind energy domes like the one there.]

[He lifts the device to let the camera take in a glimpse of the dome from where he's standing.]

Conditions in there, from what we can tell, aren't great. Totalitarian police state, they all have compromised immune systems, and dissenters can get tossed out here into the ruins, where they die in short order... although we do have one who's hanging on. He's starting to fade again, though.

Out here, you have the locals. They try and get by as best they can, and they're doing pretty well for what they're up against -- trade-based economy, low tech level, a lot of scavenging in the ruins. Then you've got the alien ship we came out of. Crash-landed some time nobody can remember, there's a legend that we were sent by the aliens to help retake the domes, free the people, that sort of thing.

[Kaidan's smile is a wry one.]

Not something I've got any problem with doing, but given the difference in tech levels between the Outer Authorities -- that's the military police squad that comes out and stomps the people here if they look like they're organizing -- and the locals, it'll be a slow process.

[Quiet, mind open, the Blue Lantern takes everything in, piece by piece. He nods on occasion, and seems to be staring off into the vague distance while his focus stays on Kaidan's brief.

Once it comes to a close, Walker begins to smile again, a very gentle, hushed expression that does well to mask hesitance or fear on his part, if any.]

So, we are...something of a resistance.

Well! Thank you, Major - I believe this is more than sufficient, and you did a wonderful job of summarizing everything.

[...yes, he's still serious.]

I believe I will stay in this general area for now and provided a little more assistance to these people, but I hope to meet with you later. Please, call on me if you should ever find yourself in danger.

[The gentleness, the quiet... this is definitely an alien, even without the features that are humanoid rather than anything human. Kaidan is, at least, used to interacting with them, even if this species is new. He crooks a small smile.]

Well, I think we need to get a lot more of the basic infrastructure in place before we count as a resistance... but yeah. Eventually.

I'll definitely give you a call if I need a hand. Take care of yourself -- there might be some scavengers still loose on the streets.

Edited 2012-07-10 13:19 (UTC)

Commander Shepard, Normandy SR2.

Mind if I ask where you're from?

[She sounds downright curious rather than demanding in the least, blunt as the question may have been.]

Commander, I am pleased to meet you.

It seems as though I hardly have time to operate out of only one place these days, but my current home is a lovely planet known as Odym.

[He's no psychic, but he can hear that tone of interest in her voice; it brings an odd smile to his face.]

Please, let me know if I may be of use to you.

Odym. [She echoes the word thoughtfully, then presses:] Any chance you know what system that one's in?

[After a second, she explains:]

Excuse the questions, but I've been all up and down our galaxy and haven't seen anyone quite like you.

Not at all! I'm an open book, you see.

[Impenetrably chipper, Walker merely shrugs, genuinely happy to talk. Sensing something unmistakably strong about the Commander, it makes the conversation much more interesting - he's a pretty good judge of character, y'see.]

Odym is safely tucked away within the Polaris system.

...based on a few other chats I have enjoyed here, though, I believe my home may be very far away from most, or something more "complicated".

[This seems to puzzle her a bit.] That's not in the known galaxy. [She sounds almost awed, though just slightly. Intersystem travel has always been a fascination of hers, but she's pretty much covered everything in the Milky Way.

But he already knows that, it sounds like. Not that that matters much to her, she's a bit fascinated anyway.]

In that case, Commander Shepard, would it interest you to see a few star charts I happen to have available?~

[This is something -else- he already knows for certain, still able to read the tone of her voice quite well, so he speaks with a slightly teasing lilt. He's very seasoned as far as traveling goes, too.]

Additionally, would it be presumptuous of me to say you are from Earth? Fascinating planet.

[The hint of a grin tugs at one corner of her mouth at his offer.] Yeah, I'd say it would.

[To his question, though:] Never set foot there, myself--if it's Earth you're interested in, I'd talk to my SIC, Kaidan Alenko.

Very well! I look forward to meeting you soon, Commander.

[He doesn't say it - out loud, at least - but there seems to be something hidden just slightly behind that broad smile of his. Concern, maybe? Other conversations he has been 'enjoying' may have steered him in this direction.]

Oh, yes, Major Alenko and I just finished a nice chat. You two are familiar then.

[A pause. Walker looks deeply at the screen, reading the face looking back at him. He's not psychic, but he can certainly sense danger hovering in the air.]

...Commander, it is my greatest Hope that you and I are able to meet soon. Please, contact me if you are ever in need.

[And this conversation just took a turn for the entirely-too-personal, but she can't quite put her finger on why or how. But the intensity and sincerity of the lock of his gaze on the screen sends an unsettled twinge down her spine.

It's time to go.]

Appreciated. I'll keep that in mind.

[The woman in the feed was evidently in some sort of catacomb or tunnel, sitting on a long, black box (actually a coffin). She was dressed in a white dress, and was wearing a weird hat as well.

Her red eyes showed little interest, but of course, she was replying...]

Kindness? You are a complacent one to find positive things in an abduction.

[She smirked, showing fangs.]

I'm Alucard. I have my doubts that I'll see you leave anytime soon.

[Oh, my. Such Anger. Such devotion to Fear. Walker stares back into the screen with a very curious expression - he even leans in for a better look.

Oh, hello there! Yes, you may call it complacent - I call it 'hopeful'.

[He grins, showing...well, a pretty normal set of teeth.]

I am Saint Walker, and gladly, we are already in agreement. I have already decided to stay, as there seems to be plenty for me to do.

...oh, are you in need of some help as well?

Hopeful? Quite a human's outlook.

[She didn't seem to see that as an insult, actually, as her tone wasn't mocking. It sure was a hands-on approach.
Nor did she seem particularly bothered by his strange features - figuring him to be some sort of supernatural entity of some kind]

Me? Unless you happen to be in posession of large quantities of banked blood, not particularly. It is always a bother to hunt down a bandit or two.

[Sure, she had been scouting, but that wasn't something to say over the network. And, yes, she had just implied to be hunting down bandits for blood. Mostly just to check for Walker's reaction - she wasn't quite sure what he was, after all. And ]

[He chuckles a little.]

Must it be a 'human' outlook, Sister? I'd say it is more of a universal thing. It is much more of a healthy perspective as well - much less stressful than a lot of negative thinking.~

Ah, then I suppose you feed on this blood? I'm afraid I have none but my own, and I am somewhat attached to it.

[He didn't seem to be overtly worried about the fate of any bandit she may come across, but nothing seemed to stop him from jokingly making himself a target as well.

Walker hadn't met any 'vampires', per se, but he did know of species that simply needed to sustain themselves thusly. Circle of life, and all that; he'd really only have something to say against if she were doing so just for kicks, and hopeful as ever, such a conclusion wasn't his first. Instead, just as warm as ever, he kept right on smiling - it was hard to tell exactly, but he may have even been glowing.]

[That caused a laugh.]

I wouldn't call it negative thinking - all it means that there are beings, maybe even people, that need to be dealt with.

[After all, she liked her conflict. Quite a bit, even. As for the blood-related question, she simply nodded.]

Then I will have to feed on the unwilling. Just as well.

[Her facial expression did not suggest that she was unwilling to do so, though.]

[Walker lets out a tiny sigh, but his bright and sunny demeanor doesn't cloud over just yet. Instead, calmly folding his hands together, he visibly appears to be growing more amused.]

But tell me, Sister Alucard - will it ever be your turn to be dealt with?

No doubt, there are creatures here that are cruel. They mete out punishment based on their own interests. They are excessive and unfair, and their undeserved actions inspire Rage among those they hurt.

[Walker tilts his head slightly, offering Alucard a sympathizing glance.]

The scales tip easily, Sister. I can only Hope that your decisions do not bear too much weight.

[Alucard spread her arms (in the kind of "here I am, shoot me" gesture)]

It takes a human to truly end a monster, including myself. Were a courageous human to try, I would welcome it. Of course, they would have to fight beyond their limits to achieve any sort of victory.

[That was what Alucard actually believed, after all. Surprisingly, many 'monsters' in her world were entirely fine with dying, as long as the battle leading up to it was good.
The next lines irritated her a bit.]

Cruel? I would compare them more to children messing about without truly thinking. Eventually, they will get stung.

[Walker holds his hands up in a conciliatory gesture, and his amicable smile never fades. He can't help but laugh lightly over how quickly the discussion had turned towards a battle to the death.]

Do not misunderstand - I certainly have no intention of fighting you. I only urge that the path you walk does not run parallel to their's. When you prey upon others, may it only be for sustenance and not amusement.~

That is a shame. But I am patient. You should be able to find me if you ever reconsider your opinion.

[The vampire looked a bit disappointed for a moment, but the mood recovered quickly - the vampire was expecting war, soon.

Sadly, Saint Walker was right - Alucard really was not a vampire that killed random humans. She was happy to kill, when it was required (especially Nazis and their like!), but she looked down a lot on vampires that killed humans randomly. In fact, she had a tendency to kill these vampires rather brutally herself. It was, pretty much, her job. Hence, she sadly couldn't really taunt Walker by pretending she was totally going to kill random humans.]

Oh, I will behave as I see fit - but it likely won't conflict with you too much. Ah, I wonder where all the fanatics went. Outside of the vatican, all of you are so peaceful.

[Wing is bringing back fresh water for the injured people, water containers slung over his chassis.]

[He keeps his distance, at first, because most people don't seem to respond to Giant Armed Robot. Perhaps for natural reasons.]

Do you need water? Medical assistance?

[The sound of propulsion had been caught by Walker's keen senses as it had approached not long ago - perhaps even another sound, something odd, akin to metal shifting and re-assembling? - but he thought little of it, too accustomed to air-traffic anyway.

But when Wing did approach in full view, the Blue Lantern blinked his eyes freshly at the sight, then began to grin broadly as he looks up...and up...and up...]

Why, no, Brother. But thank you!

[Walker bows lightly, placing his palms together as he lowers his head. The ring on his right hand is still glowing freshly from use, a gentle trail of blue light following behind.]

I only just woke and emerged from the ship. Very kind of you to offer, though.

['Brother'? It's such a difference from his usual reception that for a long moment, Wing just blinks. Before smiling.]

If there's anything I can help you with...

[He notices the blue light from the ring. And thinks he recognizes it.] You have the biotic energy, as well?

[Walker is quick to fill that long moment by approaching Wing a little more closely, eager to gain a closer look at this enormous creature, all the little parts and components pieced together so perfectly.]

Another kind offer! And I will extend the same to you, of course.

[And with that, Walker lifts himself from the ground, a very thin cusp of the blue light surrounding his frame as he hovers up and meets Wing at eye-level.]

There is that word again - Biotic. I'm not familiar. Ring?

"No Definition", says a small, artificial voice.

No, my energy...it is a little bit different. [he laughs gently] May I ask your name?

[Wing can't help but stare. Which he has heard is rude, but, well, he's seen flight, and he's seen hovering, but he's never seen anything quite like that. ]

Forgive me. It looked--superficially--the same. Some of our fellows have that ability.

I am Wing. [His attention is drawn to the voice, though. He's never run into that before.] Do you have a friend with you?

No need for apologies, Brother Wing. None at all - quite the opposite, it is very good to meet you.

[Walker holds up his right hand, displaying the small, smooth surface of the blue ring; its head is stamped with a strange insignia, and it continues to glow soothingly.]

It is something of a friend, yes - my ring. Very helpful, you see; it has something of a 'computer' on board. It can translate speech, and contains a great deal of information regarding alien cultures.

Not many people say that, especially after waking here.

But it is always good to have another friend.

[He leans closer to study the ring.] What is your ring's name?

[He presumes it is a fellow sentient creature--it has a voice after all.]

Waking here, waking there...so long as we are able to wake, there is work yet to be done.~

[Walker's indefatigable smile shines on, and he holds the ring up a little closer to the large creature's optics. Keenly, he catches on to Wing's understandable notion of the ring having an identity and quickly seeks to come to an understanding while he hovers there, suspended weightlessly as if held aloft by tiny little threads.]

No, I'm afraid it isn't like that. I do not wish to sound demeaning, but it has no intelligence of its own... [another light laugh] Certainly not as advanced as you!

[Proving that he has a fair amount of agility, even in the air, Walker begins to circle around Wing's sizable frame, his lean, wiry body bending slowly and smoothly as he orbits the Autobot's body.]

So, Brother. What do you do here?

True.

[Sweet spark, it was like talking to himself.]

Oh. It is merely a verbal interface? It seems that with a companion like that you would perhaps...not be lonely.

[N-not that Wing is.]

[He stands still, rotating his head, merely as the other circles him.]

Here, I try to help. Carry water, stabilize the ship, keep watch against the Authorities.

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stabs her timezone

do timezones bleed?

Maybe if you stab them hard enough.

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Ah, morality clashes.

[action perhaps?]

[action, indeed]

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*stabs her timezone*

*do timezones bleed?*

Maybe if you stab them hard enough.

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Ah, morality clashes.

[action perhaps?]

[action, indeed]

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stabs her timezone

do timezones bleed?