♠ 001 ♠

[jackalpi]

[Once again, a newcomer appears on the Plane. This one is a man with shaggy brown hair and a vaguely hang-dog expression, wearing a cream colored shirt, a brown leather jacket and a pair of khaki pants. He has a messenger bag slung over one shoulder, and a duffle bag in his other hand that he's dragging behind him as he walks. The kiosk, naturally, catches his attention, and he's quick to pull up the brochures it offers, his eyes flying over the screen, fast enough to easily outpace the accompanying narration. In fact, Spinelli is done reading well before the voice is done speaking, and soon moves away to look around the area for himself. It doesn't take him long before he starts inquiries of his own.]

Gracious greetings, fair denizens of the Plane. Might the Jackal inquire if there is anyone about? While the proffered brochures have been most enlightening, and it is always a boon to find there are others with the same love for language that he holds, it remains that he has still found himself in...well, to put it as succinctly as possible, space. Truly, are the words printed upon the screen an accurate assessment of the situation that exists here?

[He breaks off for a moment, looking around him with something that might, under other circumstances, might have turned into an exuberant grin. But today of all days he can't quite muster the usual enthusiasm he might otherwise have for such a discovery. Still, it he can't quite help but feel some growing interest in his surroundings, simply because of where he's found himself.]

If so the Jackal must admit he has found himself in a most fascinating situation. And while he holds out very little hope of finding Stone Cold or the fair Maximista, any assistance would be gratefully accepted. As the Jackal finds himself currently fated to wander the world and helping those in peril, he is also willing, of course, to offer any assistance of his own, be it something that it is within his power to accomplish in this strange and wondrous new place. Or if nothing else, the simple art of conversation would be most welcome, for surely there is someone to be found here?

[Letting his voice drop back to more normal levels, he looks around once more, a hint of uncertainty in his expression.] ...at least, the Jackal hopes this to be the case. Perhaps more exploration would be in order.

Comments

[inhumanity]

[Christopher stops. And stares.]

[It's like the Poet's long-lost brother.]

Greetings! [Christopher bows with great flourish.]

If it's conversation you seek, why, I will do my very best to provide. Yes, it would be an honour! The beauty in your speech moves me to my core!

[jackalpi]

[Spinelli turns back towards the newcomer, blinking for a moment when he takes in the other man's appearance. Either the brochures were right, or someone has a fondness for costume. There's a small part of him hoping it's the former rather than the latter.]

Ah! Truly, the Jackal thanks you for your kind words, although his skill at such is trifling, especially when compared with the likes of the Bard or some of the noble poets of times past.

[He hesitates for a second before shrugging lightly.] In truth, most of those of the Jackal's acquaintance find his speech to be more than a bit confusing at times, so it is refreshing to find one who wishes to converse. May the Jackal inquire to whom he is speaking?

[inhumanity]

Who can compare to the great Shakespeare? Ah, but words spoken from the heart reach the heart of another!

[He really is excited to meet someone who talks as ridiculously as Spinelli. There is an extra bounce in his step as he introduces himself.] I am Christopher Chareau de Red. I take it that you are called the Jackal?

[jackalpi]

There is none who can, in truth. We can only strive to reach for such a standard as he has set for us.

[Seeing the excitement in Christopher's step, some of Spinelli's bleak mood fades a little. It seems the other man is truly pleased to meet him, and that is a bright spot in an otherwise dark time.]

Ah, well, if one must go by the most common of introductory protocol, I would more properly be called by my given name. However, I must admit to a fondness for my nom de guerre.

[He offers out a hand for Christopher to shake, should he wish to do so.] Damian Spinelli, aka the Jackal, at your service. If the most Noble Christopher prefers to use my surname, he is certainly welcome to. Most of my closest comrades back home do, so it is certainly something I am comfortable with.

[inhumanity]

If the Jackal is what you wish to be called, then the Jackal is what you must be! [The proclamation is made as Christopher accepts the handshake—but clasps with both hands, smiling broadly at Spinelli.] One who loves words so well could only choose his own name wisely. I embrace it.

[jackalpi]

[Spinelli ducks his head a little, making a noise in the back of his throat that somehow manages to be sheepish and pleased all at the same time - because he's secretly quite happy about having that name accepted so readily by someone who isn't a fellow hacker.]

The Noble One is too kind.

[The first few words carry an extra bit of emphasis to them. It may change later on, but for now it seems he's settled on a nickname for Christopher.]

Now that the matter of introductions have been settled, would it be presumptuous of the Jackal to inquire if his newest acquaintance is a native of this locale, or merely a traveler like himself?

[inhumanity]

[Christopher accepts the nickname with ease. He really likes Spinelli already, and besides: he has said crazier things to saner people.]

Like you, I am a traveller from a distant time and place! Or perhaps not so distant. I hail from America, 1932.

[jackalpi]

Ah, 1932! A year full of both tragedy and triumph, with more than one event that has stood the test of time and grown to be a part of our history.

[There was Babe Ruth's called shot, the kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh, Jr, the debut of Ravel's 'Concerto in G', the year the heath hen became extinct...but it occurs to Spinelli that Christopher could be from any part of that year and therefore not aware of these particular occurrences yet. Or, given his slightly unusual appearance, could be from some alternate Earth where none of these things happened. Either way, he isn't sure if his saying what happened might be a problem.]

Although perhaps it is best not to go into detail lest it causes irreparable damage to the timeline. Even in a multidimensional nexus, the effects of such an action could stretch far and wide. But...it likely would do no harm to admit that I am at least from your future, in the year 2009. Or, at least, a potential future. Even the Jackal must admit that there is the possibility of our dimensions not being exactly the same, even though we hail from the same continent.

[inhumanity]

[Christopher may have missed the memo as far as time travel shenanigans go.] Ah, it would be difficult to tell, wouldn't it? After all, my existence has been erased from the history books. Yet I want to believe that there is such a connection between friends.

[grip_on_reality]

[the minute she hears Spinelli calling out to find someone, she starts walking in his direction. from what she's hearing, he strikes her as a bit eccentric--but in a place like this, that's hardly a surprise, and she's not one to leave a person in need. by the time he finishes his speech, she decides she's probably close enough to start calling back]

Don't worry; this place is never empty. New 'ere, I take it? [and, noticing the bags, she raises an eyebrow] Ah, are you planning to move in?

[jackalpi]

[Eccentric could very well be one way to describe it - and probably one of the more polite terms that could be used. He spins around on his heel at the sound of the new arrival, something in his face lightening as he sees he's not alone.]

Gracious greetings, fair questioner. It is true, the Jackal is but recently arrived, so your observation is a most salient one indeed.

[However, as he catches sight of that raised eyebrow, his gaze drops down to the duffle bag, which he'd actually almost forgotten about given his surroundings. He grimaces faintly.]

Ah, no, it was not the Jackal's intent to appear as though he was going to crash on the Plane's metaphorical couch, as it were. But circumstances back home have dictated that he remove himself from his preferred abode and take up a more nomadic sort of lifestyle.

[There's a brief pause before he gives her a slightly sheepish look.] In truth, I was on my way to the airport when a quest for sustenance led to a most peculiar shop, and that apparently led to this place.

[grip_on_reality]

Well, I wouldn't worry about missing your flight. Time won't pass there while you're 'ere.

[while her tone is casual, she's curious about his mention of a "nomadic lifestyle." there are a few reasons she can think of that would necessitate a change like that. but, as this is the Plane rather than an investigation, she's willing to wait before asking him too much]

Oh, and to answer your question? Assuming you read Naismith's brochure, then yeah, it's all true.

[jackalpi]

And most succinctly put as well, if the Jackal may be so bold.

[The fact that Spinelli found that one to be succinct may be a bit telling when it comes to his view of things. Or at least when it comes to his general appreciation for language.]

So not only does this place provide a wondrous opportunity to meet those from all times and places, there is no need to worry about the inexorable march forward of the clock? The Jackal has no need to fear the wrath of the governmental ones or move forth with his necessary but unwanted plan?

[The more he talks, the happier he seems to become - and louder too. Excited by the prospect, it becomes harder and harder for him to contain himself, until at the very end he tries to hug Menzies out of sheer joy.]

This is most excellent news!!!

[grip_on_reality]

The governmental ones? [her question is soft, more to herself than to him. he's painting an interesting picture of the reason for his airport visit, which certainly has her attention]

[but then he hugs her, which, incidentally, is a very good distraction tactic. she stiffens, immediately trying to push him away] Oi! I can tell you're excited without the dramatics, thanks.

[jackalpi]

[And that's just the tip of the iceberg, too. He barely seems to notice her stiffening, but the push is a bit more noticeable, and he promptly lets go.]

Deepest apologies, fair questioner. The Jackal did not mean to cause you any undue distress. His excitement simply could not be contained.

[But it would have been short-lived at any point, because there's still some problems with this situation, and as it occurs to him, he deflates noticeably.]

But alas, that does not solve the conundrum the Fearsome Federal one has placed him in. For even with the flow of time halted back home, it does not change the fact that the Jackal must still leave, only delays the inevitable.

[grip_on_reality]

Oh, obviously not. [while her reply is sarcastic, her tone is exasperated rather than angry or even annoyed]

[as the Jackal brings up his current issues once again, though, Menzies decides he's given her enough reason to pursue the topic]

So what's this about the "Federal ones" and you becoming a sheep-herder, anyway?

[because she has to pick at his use of the word "nomadic." it was too good of an opening]

[jackalpi]

[He seems unfazed, swiftly replying with a correction to what he percives to be an erroneous conclusion.]

While it is true that many nomadic tribes are of a pastoral nature, the Jackal's specific state would be more akin to a peripatetic nomand, offering a craft or trade during their travels. And while it is not perhaps the Jackal's chosen lifestyle, he has no choice thanks to the continued egregious actions of the Fearsome Federal one, for he is the one who persists on attempting to cocerce Stone Cold into the betrayal of those he has remained loyal to for years. Stone Cold has already honored the deal brokered in exchange for the Jackal's freedom.

[The longer he talks, the more agitated he gets - and the louder he gets, until at the end he is gesturing wildly and he is the very picture of indignation.]

Such continued attempts are nothing more than sheer blackmail!

[behisequal]

[Loki, cloaked with an invisibility spell, has been following this one around for a fair few minutes after spotting him at the booth of information. But if he were visible, "the Jackal" would see Loki's expression that's torn between amusement and general not knowing what to make of this creature. Clearly this human's brain is addled in some way.

He almost walks away--but the mention of receiving a favor in return stays his feet. Such a boon could prove useful in future. So, he dismisses his spell and approaches this very curious human from behind. (Thankfully, he is in his regular attire, his armor very much stored away for the time being. His normal manner of dress will be strange enough.)]

Ask and you shall receive, my friend. [His expression has a slight warm smile to it as he clasps his hands in front of him.]

[jackalpi]

[Fortunate indeed, for that armor would be likely to bring about many curious questions at the very least. As it is, Loki's normal attire causes Spinelli to stop for a moment, brow knitting faintly as he tilts his ever so slightly to one side.]

Most curious.

[He shakes off the puzzlement after a moment, instead returning the smile with one of his own, his expression open and guileless.]

Apologies. The Jackal found himself momentarily distracted. Your offer of assistance is welcome, of course. And it is true he did have some questions, but might he first inquire as to the veracity of the brochures provided by the kiosk? Admittedly the information within the one seems to be most complete in the one, but the purpose of the second eludes the Jackal, save as some form of parody, perhaps,

[behisequal]

[Loki waits patiently for the mortal to come to an end about what he means to say.] It is a jest, surely, but I must admit I have no knowledge of the writer of the second brochure, as you call it. The first, however, is absolutely true. What you see in there is merely the beginning. [He sweeps his arms out in a broad gesture.] There is far, far more for you to see here, and know that some questions cannot be answered straight away. Hopefully, you are not the type to become discouraged too hastily.

[jackalpi]

Nay, on the contrary. The Jackal welcomes the challenges and mysteries that such a place can provide. In fact, you can say that investigation of new phenomena is a part of his blood, much as with any detective.

[Sorry, Loki. He's more than a bit wordy at times.]

Ah, but forgive me, for I have neglected the common courtesies that should have already taken place prior to any questioning. Damian Spinelli, aka the Jackal, at your service.

[behisequal]

[Loki has noticed this and waits patiently. He does, however, find it very interesting that the mortal has been speaking of himself in such a way these past few minutes.] Then consider yourself well met, Damian Spinelli the Jackal. I am Loki of Asgard, son of Odin.

[jackalpi]

[That small revelation by Loki actually has the effect of getting Spinelli to wind up staring in surprise - which means that he's actually not talking for once. Well. At least not as much as he usually does.]

Loki...?

[He's familiar enough with Norse mythology that that name and lineage is recognizable - and trusting enough that he believes what he hears. Which may not be the best thing to be sometimes, but right now that's not even a thought in Spinelli's head. Instead, he's looking at Loki with something just short of wonder, because meeting a god is pretty damn cool.]

Truly, for all the brochure stated this was a nexus, I never once imagined that I would meet one such as yourself. It is an honor, sir. A most wondrous honor.

[behisequal]

[Loki is beginning to enjoy this reaction whenever he reveals who he is. Some on Asgard could care less about him, or even suspect he may be up to something if Thor has been particularly victorious recently--but there is no Thor on the Plane, and no one knows what he's done in the past. It's all really and truly refreshing.]

[He smiles and gives a small nod of his head.] You flatter me. Here on the Plane of Astral, we can converse with many from all walks of life. Surely, I cannot be the only one of legend you have met?

[jackalpi]

Alas, so far the Jackal has only had the good fortune to make the acquaintance of the Noble One and the Law Abiding one upon this Plane. And while, perhaps, one could consider that infinite worlds could be brought together here, there are no such legends that walk the Earth that the Jackal calls home, so you would, indeed, be his very first.

[And trickster god or no, he's still excited. Granted, he's an excitable person normally, but this time it is with definite reason.]

But there are many tales of you amongst my people even so, in many mediums. I must say, it is incredibly exciting to be in the presence of one so exalted. Would it be possible to...

[There was something he was going to ask for, but then he thinks better of it. Breaking off the request, he closes his eyes, shaking his head and waving his hands at the same time.]

Nay, the Jackal dare not ask. Pray, forget that I even began to bring up such a request.