2013-03-03 Shift Into Flight

Winter has begun to give way to Spring and as such the weather has started to warm. This has head led the double doors to the balcony of Thor and Sif's apartment being opened and the cool breeze allowed to make it's way through it's halls. The apartment smells of... something. It's a scent that would be difficult for any but the Asgardians and, perhaps, Eddie and Billy who have been to Asgard, to recognize. It's a warm and pleasantly musky scent with a hint of floral undertones.
The Handmaidens from Thor's Hall have already come and gone. The apartment is as clean as it can possibly get and there's a meal that has been prepared and set out on the table for when Thor and Sif decide to partake.
Even from the hallway outside, the sounds of a harp being played can be heard. Inside, the Goddess sits on the couch, legs curled under her with her lap harp resting in her lap. She's dressed in a casual Asgardian gown of gun-metal grey with red and silver embellishments, her feet bare and her hair left to hang, slightly curled from drying naturally.
"Well, this is the place." Vic (Anole) states back to his companion, Jocelyn. "At least, I think its the place. I've never actually been here." He looks to Joce. "You don't think its an issue to come over without calling, do you? I wanted to surprise him." Him, of course, being Eddie.
Nervousness aside, Vic squares his shoulders and lifts that big-ole-fist to knock at the door.
*DOOJHDOOJHDOOJH* Vic seems surprised by the force behind his knock- it was quite a bit more than required. "I'm still getting used to the arm." he says over to Jocelyn, his unexpected and very welcome companion. "Thanks for coming, too."
"Not a problem". Jocelyn knew that the first time coming over to your boyfriend's house was a little bit nerve-wracking, no matter what. "Sorry about getting pulled away the other day," Jocelyn tells Vic. But maybe it gave Vic some alone time to talk with Eddie. Did she actually plan that when the annoying phone call came? Maybe. Maybe not. She herself isn't quite sure, but she does hope it helped. The teenager has a light blue jacket on over her t-shirt today, and is wearing her standard black gloves as well. "I doubt it's a problem. I can't see him objecting to you coming over to visit," she adds.
Jocelyn smiles at the knocking. "You didn't break the door down. That's a good start, Trust me," Jocelyn points out with a knowing grin. "You'll get the hang of it. Just give it time". She figured Vic would be alright with that massive right arm of his. Sometime she'll have to ask exactly how he got that arm. Nobody else got massively buff bodyparts out of the trip!
"Spider-Man, Spider-Man, Does whatever a Spider," Ben sings then pauses, "I'm not him," the words come out but are extremely hard to hear since he's saying that while swinging between buildings dressed in the red and black costume with a green backpack strapped on. Some group decided to release a Spider-Man song and it is quite catchy. After a while Ben begins to sing, "Scarlet Spider, Scarlet Spider, Does whatever a Spider can," he smirks, "But better!" Yeah this song is going to be better in his mind but that could be the self-delusions talking.
As his mind starts to think of more lyrics a pecular sound hits his ears. "Is someone playing a harp!?" he thinks, "In NYC and not in the cultured area!?" These are strange thoughts to have but a harp is just not all that common. The build isn't quite recognized by the teen even though he should. Several times he's been in the place thanks to the generous hospitality from Thor, but there is a difference between seeing the building from on the ground and while swinging way up in the air.
Landing on the building with a gentle "thump!" Ben crawls down closer to the open window. By now the smell of the food runs up his nose before he's able to peek into the balcony. All of the roast meats and everything else made his stomach gurgle, "I know buddy," he whispers to assuage it. Big red spider-eyes peek into the place and his face is taken back a little bit.
Now Ben recognizes the place, "Thor's having another party!?" Quickly the teen starts to jump and climb up the building. Once on the roof he starts to hunker down, and change out of the uniform and into something more civil. Inside the green backpack Ben always keeps clothing. His costume didn't slip on with magic or suddenly appear thanks to alien technology, it has to be put on the old fashion way. Doing away with the red and black for a blue fantastic four long sleeve shirt, a hoodie that's a shade darker than the shirt, black jeans and a pair of vans that nearly match the pants, Ben walks through the roof entrance and heads down the stairs.
Seeing the familiar hallways the teen is all smiles as he waits by the door that belongs to the friendly neighborhood god called "Thor."
It was nice to have handmaiden's about. Thor lounged on teh balcony out of their way - out of hearshot of their tittering about hte hair cut - in a tunic and pants from his home. No need to wear armor for the moment. After all, he's not actively flying off to every little prayer he heards. Instead, Mjolnir resting on the ground by his hip, the Thunderer remains on the balcony, feet propped up on the edge of the firepit, the sPad from Pepper in his hands. He's swiping at some brown tiles that make soft clacking sounds, and seems rather engrossed. A tiny furrow of concentration creases his forehead between his eyebrows as the Asgardian sorts out puzzle 63 on Unblock Me. The sound of the doojhdoojhdoojh upon his door lifts his head from his puzzle.
"I shall attend to that, beloved," calls the prince just loud enough for Sif to hear as he sets the touchpad off to one side. Sif's music is lovely, and Thor is loathe to hear it stop just to answer the door. On his feet, Thor strides toward the door and reaches out for the knob. Pulling the door open, Thor smiles at the two unfamiliar faces upon his threshold.
"Greetings and warm welcomes, mortals, Ben Reiley," Thor greets, giving a nod to the two he doesn't know and the one he does. Since Ben is with them, the Thunder God takes a step back, unobstructing the doorway, while his left hand motions inside toward the living room.
"Do enter, and make thyselves comfortable, Ben and Friends of Ben," Thor adds with grace, clearly assuming Jocelyn and Vic (Anole) are friends with Ben. Why else would they all be standing near together upon his doorstep? The Asgardian is all warm smiles and hospitality. Just another Sunday morning in the halls of Thor.
These lazy Sunday mornings have a special place in the Goddess' heart. They bring forth so many memories from their time on Asgard. Times before Thor and Sif existed. Times of when they were younger.
The knocking on their door causes Sif to lift her head towards it but before she can stop and set the harp aside, Thor is up and moving. There's a gentle, sweet smile the touches her lips at this. She knows why he's doing it and she's all too happy to continue to play for him.
Her eyes, a soft glacial blue, never leave the door and when those on the other side are revealed to her, she bows her head slightly. "Greeting and good morn! Welcome to the Hall of Thor." Her voice this morning is gentle and warm and there's a serene happiness that can be heard in it.
Greeting given, her eyes slip to Thor and a brow arches. Those silent words hanging in the air. Does she continue to play or rise and tend to their guests?
"Er. Um, I don't know Ben." Vic states, "I um, came to see Eddie. Is he in? I wanted to surprise him. I'm Victor Borkowski. We're.. Um. Close friends." The young man takes a moment to look back towards Ben, giving a nod of his head. "Nice to meet you, Ben, all the same-" he offers, with a little wave of his large, clawed hand. "You must be Thor, Eddie's told me a little about you, and.." Eyeridges come together in thought, "Sif. He speaks /very/ highly of the two of you." he nods towards Jocelyn, "This is my friend Jocelyn." he then introduces the young woman near by, smiling to her thankfully once more- mouthing, 'Thank you for coming' as he turns from the Mighty Thor.
"I can come back later if he's not around." Vic then states, "It looks like you're expecting company. I don't want to be a bother, or anything."
Jocelyn nods to Vic slightly when he mouths that. She wasn't turned to the door immediately. But then she does.
Jocelyn was going to say something intelligent here. Really she was. Something like 'Hello' or 'Good to meet you'. It would be polite. But when you can see energy and you are greeted by the God of Thunder, well...one might get a little overwhelmed at first. Not that Jocelyn is quite sure what it is she's seeing, but that doesn't matter.
The girl lowers her head and puts her hands up to cover her eyes, biting the inside of her lip hard, almost as though she is in pain.
Instead, she manages to mumble something in a pained voice that sounds like "Sorry to bother you if Eddie isn't home". No. No she wasn't expecting to meet a god of any type today.
"You know Eddie?" Ben asks Vic before extending his hand toward the green teen, "Ben. Ben Reilly. He's talked about you once or twice, nothing but good things I assure you." His gaze turns to Jocelyn, "Ben Reilly," he takes her hand then kisses the back of it like a gentleman. Hopefully a certain girlfriend wouldn't get angry over this if she saw it.
Ben turns toward the friendly neighborhood thundergod, "Is there anyway we can ummmcome in? Hang out?" he sniffs the air, "I smell something delicious that you, the lovely Sif, the hand maidens and the coffee lady have made." He smiles big, "Maybe they can wait for Eddie, I'm sure he'll be here in a few minutes," Ben shrugs. Deep down the teen recognizes Jocelyn's tone because wellhe had that same tone for Thanksgiving. Thor is just going to invite them in anyway. However, maybe it would make them feel a little better if someone else got the ball rolling for the invite.
"Most assuredly were Sif and I expecting company, and lo hath thou appeared upon my door step. Come in, once more, and be made welcome. Eddie is not currently at home, off being the hero his heart demands of him, no doubt. That thou wouldst stay to await his triumphant return, as Ben Reiley hath just suggested, is no bother. Rather, thy company is a thing to be celebrated for friends of the House are to be cherished and rejoiced," declares Thor, giving weight and agreement to Ben's words. Catching sight of that wordless question from the lady, Thor smiles, partially closes his eyes, and shakes his head faintly. The silent reply: Nay, beloved. Sit and play as thou doth love. I shall attend our guests. ....afterall, the handmaidens left prepared food out. He doesn't have to worry about trying to figure out the microwave.
It's a beautiful early spring day. Clear blue skies and a slight breeze. The double doors to the balcony of Sif and Thor's apartment is open to let the air in. The home smells clean and 'warm'. The front door is also open. Three mortals stand in the threshold and Thor just on the inside as he welcomes and invites them in to partake of the meal the handmaidens had made before departing for Asgard.
A smile is given to Victor as he introduced himself. "Young Ben is correct. Eddie has spoken highly of you. It is a pleasure and an honor to meet one who means so much to my little brother." She inclines her head is something of a bow. Even as the Goddess speaks, her fingers never still and the music continues to drift through the apartment.
She knows the pained tone of Jocelyn very well and it causes a concerned look to be given to the girl. "Is all well, Lady Jocelyn?" A brow arches at the girl and there's a slight tilt of her head.
After a few seconds of studying Joce, Sif turns her attention to Ben and smiles. "You smell the midday meal that the Handmaidens have prepared, yes." She nods her head towards the table in silent invitation.
Silvery-eyes are turned to Thor, the love, adoration and devotion she has to him shining brightly in her eyes. Even from where she sits on the couch, it's difficult not to see the respect she has for the man. She gives her head the smallest of nods in return then turns her attention back to her music, letting her eyes close to focus on it.
First, Ben's hand is given a careful shake, "Nice to meet you, Ben." Vic offers, before turning then to Jocelyn to check on her, and hide the slight pinkness that's come to his cheeks. "Hey, Joce, you okay?" he wonders of his friend. "Oh, right.. Man. We gotta talk to someone about getting you some glasses or something. It might help the headaches," he whispers as he checks on his friend.
Thor and Sif get a giant smile. "Oh! He's out doing that? Okay, yeah- I mean, thank you for the hospitality! We'd be glad to come in. Eddie's spoken highly of the two of you, as well. I'm glad you're both a part of his life." The young man says, nose twitching as the bewitching scents of Asgardian feast tickle his senses. Vic waits though for Jocelyn to enter, or at least show she's doing alright.
"Ow. Yeah, I'll be fine. Thanks for the invite. Just...could I maybe get a hand to the nearest seat?" Jocelyn asks. Well, if she had any doubt these two weren't normal humans, it's gone now. The tall girl gives a brief nod to Ben in greeting, but doesn't otherwise say anything to him quite yet. "I'm Jocelyn. Pleasure to meet you, sir," she adds. "Sorry for my condition. There's...a lot going on here, and I'm afraid it's a little overwhelming".
Ben gives the woman a concerned look, but he gives Vic room to move his friend into the apartment. Ben would not take that silent invitation until he knows the woman is okay. "You going to be okay?" he asks quietly.
Well, it had been risky enough for Shift to leave the Xavier Institute's campus. The doctor had adamantly opposed it. Shift had, of course, not hesitated to provide 'the finger', as it were, and left the institute with a handful of students in tow. Chaperones are required, of course. He won't break just -any- rule.
Thankfully, one of the older students had permission to drive into the city, which means that Shift has the freedom of taking his motorcycle for a spin. The Harley Sportster 2013 Iron 883 was about the sexiest bike imaginable, at least in Shift's perception, and as he cruises the streets of Manhattan, he does so in style. The X-Men uniform remains safely concealed behind a pair of designer jeans (purchased at sample sale, of course), an off-white button down shirt, and a dark brown leather riding jacket.
The text message from Jocelyn he receives at an intersection in lower Manhattan, however? That gives him pause. A frown develops beneath the helmet, and with a screech of tires, he rips through a right turn on red (ignoring the whole 'No Turn On Red' deal), and heads toward the SoHo Abbey at high speed.
He's already going to be in enough trouble as it is. He'd better play the role of chaperone and make sure that whatever Jocelyn and the other students are getting into, it's not trouble!
Pulling up outside the apartment building, he kicks the stand and removes the helmet, before peering up at the building dubiously. "Kween nbaya boin," he murmurs in his own native language, with a thoughtful undertone. The engine is killed, and he hops off the bike before making way for the front entrance.
Thor is quick to extend his left hand to Jocelyn in offer to escourt her into the apartment proper.
"Must assuredly, lady Jocelyn. Come. I shall escourt thee, and see that thou art brought a drink," Thor says with a glance at Sif and a slight lean to his words. Mortal needs drink. Fetch, woman! For now, the menfolk are ignored. Afterall, a lady needs assistance!
In the doorway of the apartment stands Jocelyn, Vic and Ben though the lady is now being escorted inside by the Thunder God himself, leaving the door open for the others to enter at their will.
With both front door and balcony doors open, it would be hard for anyone trying to find this particular apartment to do so. Between the spring breeze, the scent off food and, for lack of a better term, Asgard as well as the harp music and the sound of voices... It's pretty much a beacon.
The tone of Thor's words has Sif springing into action immediately. Before anyone can do anything more than blink once, the Goddess vanishes from sight only to reappear right next to Jocelyn with a glass of Asgardian fruit juice in her hand. "Drink this, Lady Jocelyn. It is juice." There's a clear but distinct tone of concern if the Sword Maidens voice.
"Why w-wouldn't ir, sir. It's j-just an apartment building," comes a voice from nearby Shift. Wherever Eddie had come from...probably that alley nearby, he's approaching the abbey with the intent to return home. He'd been out on a morning patrol and gotten sidetracked by hero business but now he's back and a little surprised by an unfamiliar face at the front of the building. He's in jeans, his Captain America styled leather jacket, and a Green Lantern logo t-shirt today, and looking at Shift curiously. He pauses when he picks up on the scent of food and glances up the building towards a certain balcony and smiles. "That smells good..."
Seeing that Thor had JOcelyn well in hand, Vic follows along behind her and Thor. "She gets headaches." Vic explains in Ben's direction, as he takes a quiet look around Thor and Sif's home. "Its a lovely home, thank you again for your hospitality." he reiterates, as he takes a moment to gaze around with a whistle. "This is very nice. Do you have any idea when Eddie will be back?" he asked, as Joce got fussed over. "I mean, when you're done with Jocelyn." His mind was preoccupied, and since Joce wasn't bleeding from the nose he figured she'd be fine when her eyes 'adjusted'.
"It'll be alright in a few minutes," Jocelyn assures Thor as she takes his hand, glad she chose to wear her gloves now. Not that her sparking would likely impact the God of Thunder in the slightest, but that'd be a whole lot harder to explain away! She follows the man inside and takes a seat on whatever couch or chair she is shown to. "Thank you," she takes, reaching out to take the juice. She takes a drink. "Sometimes I just get really bad headaches and I have to sit, but they're getting rarer these days," she explains.
The teen looks up and over at Vic. "I'll be alright, Vic. Just give me a minute and I'll be fine". She's been working at keeping this stuff under control, and she has gotten better.
She looks over at Sif. "I'm afraid I don't think I heard your name. Forgive me," she says by way of apology to Sif.
Ben just looks over Jocelyn making sure she is truly okay. Vic doesn't seem too concerned about his friend. I mean he does but it seems like it is common. Plus whatever is in that juice would probably super charge her. Ben walks over to the living room area. Usually Ben would get caught up in conversation, greetings, eatings and he never looked over the place. Today his eyes are taking in all of the cultural knick-knacks and anything else that screams "Asgardian." Ben's curiousitity about the Gods has always been there, but it gets distracted way too easily sometimes. Roast Beast with a Thunder God often confuses many senses the first few times.
It doesn't take long at all for Kwabena to recognize the smells and the sounds that waft from the balcony above. This draws a frown to his face and a smile to the edges of his eyes, a clear display of his consternation. What on earth, indeed, had Jocelyn and Vic gotten themselves into here?
The voice beside him is enough to startle him. "Hah!" he emotes, and turns to regard Eddie with two blinks. "Meen pwana studa!" -You startled me!- A careful studying of the shorter man is given, and a flurry of excuses come to his mind which are never spoken. Instead, he looks back up toward the balcony, then back toward Eddie. "Studee pwen nye kl'tan peena." -I've come to chaperone wards.-
Without further adieu, Shift turns and enters the building, making for the open elevator beyond. He does nothing to prevent Eddie from coming with, of course, but it would seem that, until Shift -really- knows what's going on here, he's not going to be much for small talk!
Deposited on the fifth floor, the African starts walking carefully toward the open doorway of apartment 5B. As he goes, he steadies his mind and tries to focus, recalling the meditative practices he'd employed before his most recent near-death experience. PTSD was a real drag, but he'd rather avoid relying on Dr. McCoy's Universal Translator if possible.
Jocelyn didn't catch Sif's name? This must be remedied! The Prince takes a knee at Jocelyn's feet, keeping near to assure himself she's healthy and whole.
"My apologies. My manners did slip. I shall make introductions to thee," Thor says glancing from Jocelyn to Vic. "I am Thor Odinson, called Donar the Mighty, Child of Jord, Son of Frigga, Lord Thurdheim, Favored of the Earth and Scion of Asgard. Lo, am I known as Weilder of Mjolnir, Lord Master of Storms, the Lightning Giver, Protector of Midgard, and God of Thunder." Pause, Thor motions to indicate Sif. "This is my betrothed, the Valkyrie Sif, Shield Maiden of Asgard, Sword Maiden to Thor the Odinson, Sister of the Bifrost Guardian, the Lady of Blades, and Goddess of War." Did Thor miss any?
Eddie jumps too, offering an apologetic smile. "S-sorry," he offers. He waits for Kwabena to answer him, hoping it won't be anything bad. The answer he gets just makes Eddie look confused. "Uhh...okay..." he trails off, watching Kwabena walk. Shaking his head quickly, the teen scurries after Shift to catch the elevator. He gives the taller man a nod of thanks for not hitting the close door button and presses himself against the wall as he waits. Seeing which floor Shift picked has his eyebrows raising and Eddie glancing at the man curiously. He stays quiet though, no small talk from him either.
As they arrive up there on th fifth floor, Eddie can't help but smile at the scent of all that food since it's stronger up there. He starts towards the open apartment door too and blinks when he sees Shift heading for the same place. "Umm...your w-wards are here, sir?" he asks, surprised and now far more curious who Kwabena is. He's also curious about just who's in there with Thor and Sif.
The Goddess smiles softly. "The fault is ours alone, Lady Jocelyn." When she's introduced, Sif dips her head before managing to bow and curtsey at the same time once the juice is taken. "It is an honor and a pleasure."
Straightening, she turns her attention to Vic and Ben. "The meal is prepared. If you will both have a seat, I shall prepare plates for all of you immediately. Do you have a preference in drink?" Quite the hostess the Goddess is, isn't she? Thor has Jocelyn well in hand so it is time for Sif to tend to the rest of the Guest in his Hall.
"Oh, no preference here. I'll eat or drink just about anything." Vic replies with a smile as he goes to take a seat near Jocelyn, not that the fussing seems to have subsided. "It smells amazing, I can't place it though." Victor says, as he just takes a look towards his friend, "Is it getting better, Joce?" he wonders of her, quietly.
Blink. Blink. God and Goddess? Jocelyn really needs to start inquiring more as to just who they're going to be visiting on various trips. A broom-flying superhero one day, and now a pair of gods. Jocelyn seriously has to start asking these very important questions. "Pleased to meet you both, Sir". He's a god. You capitalize the 'sir' in your speech. The girl rolls her shoulders and looks up, slowly taking in the room, letting her eyes adjust.
"Yeah. The headache is fading away. I'll be fine," the tall redhead assures Vic. "You don't have to worry. I've been in a far worse state than this more times than I'd like".
She then turns to Ben. "Ben, I think I heard? I'm sorry for not introducing myself earlier. It's good to meet you. You know Eddie too?" she asks the boy.
Somewhere, in the back of her mind, she wonders how weird Shift is going to find this. Oh geez. Maybe she should text him. The thought and action, however, don't quite link up yet. She's still recovering.
"I work with Eddie and he's a friend," Ben replies as his brown eyes scale over all of the details. Sif's voice echoes in his mind and eventually the teen makes his way back to the table. Sitting down he looks at Jocelyn, "Eddie's a good guy. Heart's in the right place even if he fanboys all over the place. I'm almost afraid to tell him of my second job...to be honest."
"What about you and Vic? How did you guys meet him? Tell me about that." Ben waits for either of them to speak up in detail about how they are connected to Axiom.
If Eddie is confused, then certainly, so is Shift. He looks slowly over and down at the teenager, while one eyebrow shoots upward curiously. He takes a long breath, further steadying himself in spite of that 'weird feeling' he's getting, enough that he's able to provide some broken English in response. "It... it would seem dat way."
Now thoroughly perplexed, Kwabena turns back toward the doorway and, with a few bold steps, decidedly walks right in, just as Thor is introducing himself and Sif. He had encountered the God of Thunder before, but seeing Jocelyn and Vic inside such walls is certainly not what he expected.
"Um." Kwabena reaches up to scratch behind his ear, awkwardly. "Hello."
Assured that Jocelyn is feeling better, Thor rises to his feet in a single smooth motion. Blue-gray and stormy eyes remain on Jocelyn for a moment as Ben speaks and requests a story. A warm smirk appears as his gaze drifts to Ben. Such as Asgardian habit, requesting a story. Thor gives a faint, almost impreceptible nod, then turns to the door just as Shift walks in. That introduction, briefly overheard, would have been heard as whatever language is native to each individual listener. On his feet, the tall Thunderer looks over Kwabena for a heartbeat, then smiles warmly.
"Greetings and welcome! Art thou likewise a friend of my beloved's little brother, Edddie the Spear of Thrudheim?" asks Thor of the new house guest. ((OOC: Thor has the All Tongue ability. he understands all Earth Languages and whenhe speaks any one born of Earth that hears him hears him speak in the most formal and elegant form of their native or most comfortable language.))
Eddie's right behind Shift. Overhearing those introductions, Eddie blinks. And then he's inside and he sees the gathered people. For a moment, he just stands there, brain trying to process the sight of Sif, Thor, Ben, Victor, and Jocelyn together. "Umm...h-hi?" he eventually gets out. Something clicks with him and he looks up at Kwabena. "So you're from the...oh..." he trails off, looking around the apartment again with a 'what is going on?' look on his face.
That blue gown sweeps along the floor as Sif moves quickly, efficiently yet gracefully. Plates are prepared for Jocelyn, Ben and Victor. "The feast has been prepared with provisions that have been brought from Asgard itself," is noted to Vic when he mentions not being able to place the smell. Once each plate is handed out, drinks follow immediately.
Of course, then there's two others coming into the apartment and plates are immediately fixed for them as well as Thor. All three are held out to the gentlemen as the Goddess approaches, a warm smile on her lips. "Welcome home, little brother," is directed at Eddie before she turns to Shift and dips her head. "And welcome to the Hall of Thor." It's as close as they're going to get to a proper name for the place in this realm.
"I met Eddie while I was out shopping. We just sort of clicked." Vic makes no mention of Axiom, he's not about to 'out' Eddie. Smiling still, he continues to chat with Ben "He's a good friend to me, and I'm glad to know him. What about yourself?" Kwabena's entrance gives a bit of a start- Vic clearly not expecting a chaperone of /any/ type. "Mister Odame! How nice to see you, a surprise!" He eyes Jocelyn and her pretty and new and oh-so-fancy starkPhone. With its fancy text messaging, and games, and handy map feature. Never has a fouler creature existed for the young man on the go.
But suddenly, Eddie. Vic grins and stands, " Eddie!" he exclaims. "I..thought I'd surprise you with a visit." he says, with a grin, "I didn't know it would be a feast day." Vic scratches the back of his head with that big clawed hand, still smiling wide. Clearly happy to see the other young man. He puts the plate down and approaches the other young man to capture him in a hug.
"Hi Kwabena," Jocelyn says upon spotting Kwabena. "This is Kwabena Odame, one of our mentors," Jocelyn says by way of introduction, using the formal term for teacher, and in many ways he was different than the other teachers at the school. "Vic wanted to meet Eddie and give him a surprise. Bethany is just a building over doing some shoe shopping," she explains, Bethany being one of the eighteen year olds who could chaperone. Jocelyn had at least kept to the letter of the rule. The spirit...eh. That's flexible.
"I met Eddie through Vic," she explains. "Though only briefly, I must admit," the teenager comments, explaining how she came to know the boy. Of course, she's hoping Shift doesn't yell at them too much for this. They're obviously safe...if in a slightly weird situation.
She looks over at Thor and Sif. "I have to admit to not knowing as much about Asgard as I should, so forgive me if I ask what might seem like some very basic questions at times," she adds to them. "This certainly smells better than most anything we had in Detroit".Ben snaps to his attention when his phone starts to make noises. Buzzing and coming to life Ben snags the phone and opens it up. Reed apparently needs to see the intern about something. The word "Urgent" is used in the message. Rising from his spot Ben looks at the group, "I need to run. Dr. Richards needs to talk to me about something. Sue will probably be there too by the sounds of it," he says with great regret in his voice. Going to Sif, Ben bows then takes her hand kissing the back of it, "M'lady. A pleasure as always. Keep Thor out of Trouble."
He rises to Thor, "Sir. May you and your hammer continue to be just," he hugs Thor and braces himself to be crushed back.
Going to Vic Ben extends a hand, "Keep an eye on Eddie. It was good to see someone's he's mentioned once or twice. Jocelyn is next whom he kisses on the hand, "I hope your headache cures itself." Eddie is next on the hit list, "I'll see you at work. I need to talke to Kate about the office phones," he hugs Eddie.
Last up is the new person named Kwabena. Ben's not sure to handshake or hug, but he goes with the hug even if Kwabena looks very standoffish. "Kwab. Good to meet you albeit briefly," on those words Ben gives a wave then rushes out the door.
And so it is that Thor Odinson's regal voice is heard by Kwabena Odame in the language of the Ahnbareen Province, spoken like one of the tribal priests of the Adeemra Heritage.
This, of course, makes absolutely no sense to Kwabena. Where are Thor's brightly colored clothes? Where are the oranges, the yellows, the rich maroon and bright purples? And the color of his skin? Far too pale.
It's no matter. Kwabena is quick to cast it from his mind (though not without a rather owlish blinking of his eyes). To Eddie he turns next, and speaks in his own native language, a rapid fire round of foreign language that to those without translation abilities, would come across as gibberish.
-If you are Eddie, the Spear of Thrudheim, then I am Kwabena Odame, the emissary of Adeemra, Ghana.- He turns then to Thor and Sif, bowing his head deeply. He'd made an ass of himself the first time he met Thor... it might be wise to make amends. -It is most kind of you to permit me as a guest.- A hand gesture is given toward Jocelyn and Victor. -I come to keep watch over my wards, Jocelyn and Victor, however I can see that they are quite well protected within these walls.- He reaches for the plate that is offered with an expression of gratitude and a timely bow of his head that is reserved for the Lady Sif.
Of course, that move to engage Eddie? He certainly didn't want Eddie to accidentally out him as an X-Man. He'll have to have -words- with the students later.
For now, he turns his attention to Jocelyn and Victor when they introdice him. It takes him a moment to prepare his recently damaged mind for speaking in English, and it comes across slightly broken. "Victah. Jocelyn. Good to, s-see you both, re, laxing, so c- c- com, fortably."
Ben's hug? Takes him right by surprise. He stiffens a little, but once Ben lets go, Kwabena smiles. "Goodbye," he offers, watching as Ben departs with an altogether quizzical expression that doesn't seem ready to go away any time soon.
"S-sure. I'll let her know. I have to talk to you later too," Eddie offers to Ben as they hug and his friend departs. It clicks with a moment later that Ben said 'Dr. Richards'. "Oh m-man," he grins, looking towards the door. "Lucky," he murmurs. He lets Victor capture him, smile widening a bit as he returns the hug. He's happy to see him alright. "This is a n-n-nice surprise. Sorry I wasn't here to greet you guys. A bunch of b-b-bee keepers were causing trouble," he says.
He then looks to Kwabena and blushes a bit. "That's m-me. You can just call mke Eddie though. And umm...it is really safe here. We've g-g-got two awesome gods and I might not b-b-be much but I am a mutant too."
Thor glances at Jocelyn as she introduces her teacher. A respect-filled smile comes to his face and he bows to Kwabena.
"An honor to meet thee, Mentor Kwabena Odame. Thou art most welcomed within my hall herre upon Midgard," Thor says to the man from Ghana, not at all seeming to recall their previous run in. So any ass-hattery has been completely forgotten. Lucky for Kwabena, that Thor sometimes has the memory of a gold fish. An Asgardian goldfish, but a goldfish nonetheless.
Watching Vic embrace Eddie, Thor just smiles and seems non-pulsed. After all, it is right and well and good for men to embrace as brothers. If only Loki and Thor were on speaking terms right now. Thor almost sighs lightly at the musing thought. The Thunderer misses the Laughing Trickster that is his brother. (What? Loki did something heinous to them recently? Whatchoo talkin' 'bout, Willace!?)
"Beloved, I thank thee for serving our treasured company. I am certain thou did set any Apples aside," Thor says, the pitch of his voice turning the last statement into a question of the War Goddess. And then Ben bids his farewalls, and Thor embraces the lad back mightily but carefully. It would not be a good idea to break the mortals.
"Thou art too modest of thine own abilities, Eddie Resilver!" boosts Thor as Eddie speaks to Kwabena. And because Thor had limited sense of 'not outing the mutants', he continues on, "Tell us what wrongs thou did seek to right whist thou wast away from thy home and hearth, Eddie known as Axiom, Valiant Spear of Thrudheim!" And then, to add to the oddity, Thor seems almost ot off-handedly say to Sif, "Woman, bring me a drink."
Vic hugs Eddie nice and tight, and then a hard little something in his pants begins to vibrate. Followed by happy little music. "Ah. That's the 'rents, gotta take this call. I'll be right back."
A smile is given to Jocelyn and the Goddess shakes her head. "Ask any question you might have, Lady Jocelyn. It will be answered, I assure you." The God and Goddess are proud of their home!
Ben coaxes a bright laugh from Sif before she bows her head. "I shall try. Stay well and safe, young friend." And then Kwabena is bowing and it brings a smile from the silvery-eyed woman.
"Of course, my love," is answered in reference to the apples. The shift in ways she's spoken to gets an amused look from Sif before turns and... Yep! Does just as she's told! What? Food has been served. It's time for drinks! Juice is given to Eddie and mead to Kaw and Thor with a slight bow of her head. "As you requested, Thor." And yes, that's amusement in her voice too.
One of these days she'll get to make her own plate and eat.... Maybe... When the food is cold... Thank Odin for microwaves!
Jocelyn gives Kwabena a look. It's the look that says 'I did NOT tell him'. It's a little glance with the eys and shift of the shoulders in Kwabena's direction. She figures the man is savvy enough to pick up on that, given what she knows of his background. She'll be more than glad to explain things to him later. Really. She starts working on the meal a little bit. The tall girl is still rather hungry, but then again, she was always hungry.
"So, what or where is Thrudheim?" Jocelyn asks, letting her studentness work to her advantage here. "The food is delicious," she adds. Those who are leaving get polite waves, though she blinks at Ben's kissing of her hand. This was a VERY formal place. She felt a little underdressed. If she had known she was going to meet a god and goddess, she'd have worn a dress instead!
Instead, she waits to hear what stories Eddie has to tell. This would be interesting, at the very least!
That look from Jocelyn is, in fact, noticed, and it seems to put Kwabena at ease. He joins the others at the table, setting his meal down and studying it for a moment. He's... never seen anything like it before, but it smells -delicious-. Perhaps not as wonderful as the Ghanaian food Danvers had brought to him yesterday, but, you can't blame a man for having preference!
When mead is given, however, Kwabena brightens. The way to a Shift's heart is through fermentation. "Oh, tank you," he speaks in English, then looks across the table at those gathered. The oddness of everything still rests on him, but, suffice it to say he's gotten used to strange encounters. "Dis is all qu, quite nice. Tank you." For the moment, he seems content to sit and listen to the conversation that develops while sampling the Asgardian meal. An upshoot of the eyes is given very quickly. Seems he likes it!
Eddie jumps when he feels that vibration thanks to being pressed up against Victor. Going red, he nods when Victor explains what it is. "Okay," he says, giving Victor another quick squeeze before letting him go. Turning to the others, he just blushes deeper when Thor boasts. "Oh m-man," he says sheepishly. Taking a deep breath, he glances around the table and gives Sif a silent smile of thanks when he's given the juice. "I went on m-my usual patrol route but I took a detour into Queens. There's been some weird stuff happening there lately and I thought I'd check it out. I was poking around the mall when I n-n-noticed this weird truck and a g-guy with a really big gun. He started shooting as soon as he saw me and ran into the mall. I chased him down and knocked him out but he had two friends. They were a little harder to b-b-beat since it was two on one but I got them to hit eachother and that t-took care of them. I don't know what they were doing but they said they were from AIM. I handed them over to the c-c-cops but the first guy woke up and drove away while I was dealing with the other two. I c-c-couldn't figure out what's been going on out that way though. Just weird m-m-m-monsters made of strange dust attacking places."
"Oh! Wait! I forgot my hammer," Thor suddenly blurts out with his mead part way to his lips. In an almost child like manner, the Thunder God rushes (read: flies) to the balcony doorway, calls the relic to him, then returns while clipping it to his belt. It would NOT do to need it and have to bust open the wall (again) to get to it. Just in time to hear Eddie tell his tale. Thor goes silent and brushes one of Sif's shoulders as he pulls out her chair before he takes a seat at the table... the head of hte table. Because Thor's a little old school like that.
"Strange creatures made of dust," muses the Avenger aloud after a mighty drink of his mead is taken. "I know of no realm with such monsters...." He glances at Sif, the thought clear to read on his face: Has the Bifrost been breached?
The reaction to the Asgardian food that Kwa has sets a proud smile on Sif's features. "You are most welcome, Sir." She gives a small bow of her head before looking over at Jocelyn. "Thrudheim is the personal Hall of Prince Thor in Asgard," is answered smoothly. "I am most pleased that you find it enjoyable."
There's a soft laugh from Sif as Thor 'dashes' for Mjolnir. When he returns that gentle brush against her shoulder earns him that smile from Sif that reserved only for him and a softening of her eyes that only happens in his presence.
Her seat taken, her attention turns to Eddie as he speaks. A brow arched over at him. "Your days become more exciting with each tale you tell, my brother. Soon we will have to return to Asgard so that you can regale the Warrior's Three with your adventures!"
"Creatures of dust? I haven't heard of anything like that, outside of fiction books," Jocelyn says once Eddie finishes his story. Shift gets another brief look, this one more of a questioning one. Dust creatures that were causing problems seemed like a concern to her, but that was Jocelyn's view, and as the resident rookie, she was going to let Shift take the lead there.
"Thank you for the explanation," Jocelyn replies to Sif. She had no idea Eddie was nearly so important to the Asgardians. You learn something new every day indeed.
The girl then notes Thor with his hammer. Well, if she had any doubts he was the Thor of legend, they're gone now. "If I run into anything like that, however, I'll be sure to let you know if I find out anything that might help you, Eddie," she does offer. That much, Jocelyn knew, she was free to offer. And she seemed to be a small magnet for trouble, or at least hung around trouble magnets.
The mead is delicious. The food the same. It's all a little bit much for Kwabena, which might be what the doctor was warning him about when he was told not to leave the Institute's grounds. However, Kwabena is not so distracted as to miss Eddie's tale, the least of all those creatures he speaks of. Looking over at Eddie, Kwabena's fork actually clatters onto the plate, forgotten.
"Wait a moment," he breathes, his English suddenly seeming to come across with more ease. "I had a simalah encountah!" he exclaims. "At de Sundollah Cafe in Queens. Creatures just like dat attacked and tried to eat de patrons, but we fought dem off. Dey were -not- normal. No warmth to de touch, no breathing, and when we hit dem, dey shattered into a strange dust."
There may yet be a reason why Kwabena fails to expound on who 'we' were, or how he was able to take on these creatures and survive. He hasn't admitted to being a mutant yet, but his eyes look dubiously toward Jocelyn and Anole, as if to suggest to them that they follow -his- lead on that particular subject. Jocelyn seems to already be up on the matter. Points to her.
"Now that I think about it," he says with a quieter voice, while turning and eyeing the door through which Ben departed. "I believe -he- was dere, too, fighting to protect de patrons with us." He looks back toward the others at the table, specifically those he was none too familiar with, and his eyes eventually fall upon Thor. As the resident X-Man and chaperone for the students, it would be up to him to decide how much information about he, Anole, and Jocelyn's abilities to divulge.
Seems he'll be biding his time on that one, for at least another of the proverbial rounds.
Eddie smiles at the hammer-fetching and then nods. "Whatever they are, they've attacked twice so f-far. Once in a shopping mall and once at a coffee shop," Eddie explains. He then looks to Sif and laughs a little. "M-man, I don't know if I can handle regaling them again. Last t-t-time, Volstag nearly broke me in half," he says, joking.
Looking to Jocelyn, Eddie smiles. "Thanks. I haven't r-run into any of them myself yet but if there are monsters attacking p-p-people, I'm going to give it my all to stop them and save people," he declares with a nod. Kwabena dropping his fork gets Eddie's attention and he looks over quickly. His eyes widen a moment as the olde rman tells his information, Eddie nodding a little. "Weird," he says. "He...Ben?" he pauses, making a mental note to ask his friend about that later. "Whatever's going on, h-hopefully someone can stop it before someone else g-gets hurt."
Thor's eyes settle to Kwabena, head tilting to one side as the teacher states he was there, and Ben as well. Stormy gaaze turns to Eddie, and the God smiles proudly.
"I commend thee, the company of heroes and warriors thou doth keep, Axiom," comments the Prince softly, before growing more serious. His gaze returns to Kwabena.
"It does my heart good to know that Midgard hath more protectors, and to meet them as well, to feast with them and share tales of the trials and turbulations we do save my Mother's realm from. While I can not speak for the Avengers, I can speak for myself and my Lady, and someday for Asgard itself: in this fight, thou doth have our blades. We have done our best to see to training Axiom's abilities and skills, and so, if mentor thou art to these young warriors, thou doth have our arms to further assist them in gaining the needed skills and experience they will need to continue that which their hearts are pulled by Midgard to do," states the Prince, leaning a bit toward Kwabena on a forearm resting upon the table.
"Of these creatures, I shall certainly see to it that the good Captain is informed, as well as Director Fury," Thor adds, pausing here to nod to Sif for help with that. She's got the main contact there, after all. He muses lightly then, eyes remaining upon Sif. His gaze seems to darken a hue, more like ocean blue than storm blue. The Protector of Midgard is once more listening to his beloved realm, senses reaching out to locate those in fear and in need of rescue... even if Thor seems to try to mask the shift by lifting the mead to his lips.
Sif spends a great deal of time listening to the conversation going on around her. Perhaps her recent trip to Asgard still hasn't worn off. A look is given to Thor before she bows her head lightly, a subtle way of excusing herself.
Quick, silent footsteps takes her over to the small area of the room where her full size harp sits. She isn't looking to stop the discussion going on but merely ease the tension that is filling the room as it is spoken of.
"Prince Thor..." /That/ look is given to the God as she catches what he is doing and a warning glance is shot at him before her fingers being to dance over the strings of the harp as she plays while her Lord and their Guests dine.
"Yeah, Mom, yeah." Vic stated into the phone, "I love you, too. Tell Dad the kielbasa were a great hit at the island. Okay, bye, Mom." Vic stated as he returned to the area, picked up his plate from where it had been left and moved to stand near Eddie. "So. What I miss?" he asks, smiling wide still.
Jocelyn continues listening to the discussion. Yeah, being a junior member meant that you didn't get a lot of say, so it was going to depend a lot on what Kwabena said and did here before she said too much. Instead, she continued to eat and drink while the others discussed this situation. Instead, she looks over at Vic as he returns. "Eddie was telling us about some dust creatures that have been showing up and attacking people," Jocelyn explains to Victor. "Turns out Kwabena has seen them too". That should give Vic the basics of what he missed. The full details, well, those could be provided later.
"Your offer is most generous, Prince Thor," Jocelyn responds when he makes his offer, both of assistance and of apparently training. Though she doesn't say any more, letting Shift take it from there. But it was only polite to show gratitude to them, regardless of how Shift responded.
Perhaps it was wise to have waited the proverbial round, for before he knows it, Thor Odinson is offering the blades of Asgard as an ally to... to whom? No matter. What ever concern and fear that was building inside of Kwabena seems to go to ease, both with Thor's words and the playing of the harp. He draws in a long, deep breath, and relaxes his shoulders just so, before bowing his head in a gesture of gratitude toward the God of Thunder.
"In my experience," offers the Ghanaian in accented English, "dere is always a motive. Someone or some thing is responsahble for de creatures and dere actions. If we are to simply destroy dem, we may nevah find out who has sent dem, and why." He gestures with the mead in hand, looking specifically toward Anole and Jocelyn. "Dese creatures are constructs. Dey are not living. Without the heat of breath or de scent of sweat and waste, it will be difficult to track dem. If they are meant to exist like de kamikaze planes of de second world war, den dere may be no hope in finding the source. Howevah, should a way be found of provoking them to -fear-, they may run. And if dey run, -den- dey can be followed." He raises the glass of mead again, then offers, "From one warrior to anodah, I will commit my talents and dose of my students in any effort to stop these terrors."
It takes so much not to give Joce and Vic a good wink. Scott Summers is going to kill him.
The look from Sif earns a near pout in reply. Seeming about to argue the point, Thor instead blinks away the Call of Midgard and returns his full attention to Kwabena.
"Thou doth speak well and true. Should one or the other of us spot them, how should we send a missive of that which we see? After all, I am well versed in seeing to it that my foes to flee before me," offers the Thunderer, forgetting that little thing called Eddie's cell phone.
Eddie smiles and moves a little closer to Vic when he comes back. He smiles the green mutant's way and nods as Jocelyn speaks. "And Thor was offering his h-help to you guys and your classmates and teachers," he chimes in. He glances over as Sif starts playing the harp and smiles. Nodding to Kwabena, Eddie takes a deep breath. "If they're constructs, then whoever or whatever is m-making them is probably nearby whenever they attack," he says. Thor's question gets a smile from Eddie. "I'll c-c-call them and let them know," he pauses, glancing Sif's way and grinning a moment. "Messenger of the Goddess afterall, r-right?"
For the most part, Sif remains silent and serene as she concentrates on the music the harp produces. That doesn't, however, mean she's completely unaware of what's happening around her. Icey-blue eyes land on Eddie and she smiles warmly at him. He truly is her little brother in every way that matters and she's obviously very proud of him. "Aye, my brother." And then her eyes drift Thor and she chuckles softly. "I know, beloved. I understand." Because even if he didn't say anything, she does. "Listen but filter, aye?"
"Well, I've got a few errands I need to run here before we're out of the city, my parents want me to send them some doo-dads and touristy things. My dad collects those little spoons, for some reason." Vic shrugs, and leans over to kiss Eddie on the cheek. "See you soon, alright? I'll call and we'll set up another date." His voice is low- but probably not low enough to be hidden from Gods or Goddesses.
"I may be able to help with that, if they're nearby during an attack," Jocelyn says after a moment. "If they're being controlled, then I should be able to tell who is directing the energy and what we're dealing with in terms of types of power". Shift just solidified that alliance, so Jocelyn sees no reason to not mention that tidbit of information. That may also explain to the Asgardians why she suddenly had a really wicked headache, if they stop to think about it, when she arrived and saw them for the first time.
A slight stiffening of the shoulders and headtilt might indicate to Shift her preparedness to help with something like this. "Though I don't think we can jump to any conclusions about just what they are yet or how they come to be. If we had some of the dust, I might have a chance of offering some insight into it, but it'd be slim". She's guessing the power would disappear once the creature was killed, so to speak. Another look is given to Shift when Vic gives Eddie a kiss on the cheek as if to confirm what just happened there. It might explain some things.
Before Vic is able to rush off, Kwabena gestures for the mutant. "Before we go back to school, I will take you and de oddah's to de New York Zoo. Dere are a great many things you can learn about wildlife by watching dem in captivity." A touch of loathing exists in the African's voice when he mentions captivity. He may have fought tigers in the jungle when he was younger, but because of that, he held a great respect for the creatures.
He also considered the constructs something of an abomination.
The kiss given doesn't seem to bother Shift at all. He noticed it, and it brought a smile to his face, but he catches the look from Jocelyn and seems no worse for wear. Approval, one might say. "When the time comes, I will have to leave dat to those bettah suited for tracking energy signatures, and causing their foes to flee before them." A quirky grin is cast in Thor's direction. "I'm afraid my talents lie in de business of distractions and, well, causing a lot of noise." To put it lightly.
Eddie blushes after the kiss and nods. "Okay," he says. "I have good idea for one too," he says. Eddie's planning to take Vic somewhere nice. "Stay s-safe out there," he says. He watches Victor go before turning to Jocelyn and nodding. "That's a good idea," he says. "It'll be a big help to figure out who's b-behind this," he says. "I just make p-p-people better at what they do," he says with a little laugh.
Thor gives the kiss on the cheek a glance, but little more. Rather, it is Jocelyn and her comments that earn the most attention. His lips purse and the Storm Lord nods thoughtfully. Another sip of mead is taken.
"Beloved, let us away and see if we might find some of these for ourself, that perhaps we can learn more of them?" Thor asks, half thinking aloud as he turns to look at Sif. If only Loki were here! Unless these sand creatures were /from/ Loki.... Thor sets his drink down to stand, looking to Kwabena. A smile given, and the God nods.
"Aye, Kwabena," Thor says before turning to Vic and Eddie.
"It was good to meet so gay a friend as thou art to Eddie," says the Norse Diety to Vic, a hand coming to rest on Eddie's shoulder. Because Thor loves gay people, apparently. To Jocelyn, the Prince bows and as Ben did, collects her hand as if to kiss her knuckles. Actually, he merely brings them to his forehead, as if he were far too rough and clumsy and not at all worthy of holding said hand, let alone to press his lips to it. He straightens after a moment, letting her hand go, and summons his armor to him with a crack of thunder and a bolt of lightning through a window. Those poor curtains!
"Once more art thou being far too modest of thine abilities, Axiom. Hast thou forgotten, already, of when thou did stand at my side against my brother? Had thou not been there to give him such distraction, we would likely have seen the rise of Ragnarok that day," says Thor, once more placing his hand upon Eddie's shoulder. "Call to me, if thou has need of me. I shall take Sif with me, should I require a swift egress," adds the Asgardian, looking to Sif in the hopes that she too is ready to go. It's moments like these that leads weight to Thor's 'never remove the armor' habit.
"Oh. Uh, thanks, Prince Thor." Vic offers to the Thunderer before he's off, waving to Eddie on his way out. "See yah, Eddie! I'll catch you guys back at school." he offers towards Shift and Jocelyn both, and then? He's gone- off to pick up kitsch for his parents.
The window breaks and Sif sighs. "Thor..." She gives him a reproachful look as she stands and walks over to him, taking up her sword from it's place on a low stand begind the couch. She really doesn't need the armor for a recon mission and if they get in trouble, well... They get in trouble.
She gives a bow to their guests. "Please stay and make yourselves at home." Her eyes land on Eddie. "You are far more than you give yourself credit for, Eddie." With that, she and Thor make their way out to the balcony and are gone in only a manner the Lord of Storms can manage.
Jocelyn watches the various people take their leave, and that leaves the girl with Shift and Eddie at this point. "Thank you for your hospitality," the girl says to the departing gods. Once they have left, the girl looks over at Shift.
"You know, when we're going to drop in on people, I do wish people would tell me when they're going to be actual gods and goddesses". She rubs at her eyes. "Ow".
She then looks at Eddie with a nod. "Well, if I see any, I should know. You know anything else about them?" she asks out of curiosity.
The bolt of lightning causes Shift to jump, and he has to steady the glass to keep mead from spilling. As the God and Goddess make to depart, Shift bows his head and speaks in his native tongue once again. <<May the earth shine favorably upon you.>> He leaves out the part about 'how will we get in touch again'. If they were deity types, they'll manage.
Once they have departed, Kwabena looks over toward Jocelyn with raised eyebrows. "If my family had -any- idea what I was doing, dey would disown me. Again. And banish me. Again." He shakes his head, then looks toward the balcony with a sense of irony. "Gods and Goddesses. Blasphemy," he murmurs.
Give Eddie a few moments. What Thor says breaks his brain and he needs a few moments for rebooting. By the time it does, Sif and Thor are gone and Vic's departed. Blushing, Eddie shakes his head and looks around. "S-sorry. Most people don't believe it when they hear the God of Thunder and Goddess of War are right here on Earth," he says, rubbing the back of his neck. "And n-n-no. I don't know anything else about them yet. I got sidetracked from my p-poking around by those beekeeper guys," he adds. His expression sinks a little when he hears Kwabena speak. He just offers the man a concerned look. "Umm..." he bites his lip. "I think I m-m-might have a little explaining to do," he admits after a little thought.
"Well, I suppose it is a good thing they don't have any idea what you're doing," Jocelyn responds to Shift with a small smile in an attempt to disarm that situation. The girl takes another bite of her meal that she hadn't finished yet. "Go for it," Jocelyn says to Eddie, encouraging the boy to speak. Her brain was still adjusting a little bit too. She was starting to think she had to make a list of weird things she'd experienced in the last three weeks.
It would be a long list.
Lifting the glass in a mock toast to Jocelyn, Kwabena takes another drink before setting it down and once again resuming his own enjoyment of the Asgardian feast. He looks toward Eddie politely, though his mismatched eyes seem most curious in what he has to say. "I would ask forgiveness for dat," he asides. "I'm not really a man of faith, but... well. I grew up in Ghana." And that country is heavily inundated with Christianity, after all.
Eddie gives a little smile. "I'm...really not big on religion either b-b-but another friend of mine said he talked to a priest once about the whole gods thing and said that for his faith, the gods here on Earth were just part of a larger religion plan thing," he says awkwardly. Taking a deep breath, he sips his juice before speaking. "You um...probably already guessed but I already know about where Jocelyn and Vic g-g-go to school and where you teach. Well...I'm pretty sure I do. I pieced together a lot of information from t-t-teaming up with a bunch of different people. But like I told Wolverine when he asked me t-to keep some secrets...I'll protect it with my life. I'm n-n-not going to be spilling the beans to anyone."
Jocelyn raises her eyebrows at Eddie. She clearly hadn't figured out that Eddie had pieced that together, but she hadn't spent that much time with him yet. Though if he's talked to Wolverine and promised him that the secret would be kept, well...she'd really rather NOT cross Wolverine. So the girl wasn't actually too worried about Eddie's reliability, if the clawed man would vouch for it. "I suppose, with your abilities, teaming up with a lot of different people makes sense, depending on the situation".
She shrugs a little on the discussion of faith. "Honestly? After the last two weeks I've had, I don't know what to believe, so I'm going to take things a bit more as they come, I think". Jocelyn was still trying to sort all that stuff out.
It's probably not entirely unexpected that Eddie is a fast receiver of one hairy eyeball, courtesy of Shift. He quite literally stares at the younger mutant for some time while the explanation is given. "See to it dat you don't," is all he says on the matter. No threats, no long speeches of why such secrets are so important. Rather, he just lets the stare and the weight of his words do the job.
"The eyes can even play tricks on you," Kwabena offers to Jocelyn. "It's... something I have learned. Evaluate, listen, and think." He offers a slight chuckle and admits, "I'm still learning dat one. Too often I'm... ready to jump de gun, be a loose cannon." Canting his head back toward Eddie, he forks another chunk of Asgardian deliciousness before asking, "Eddie, I don't suppose you wouldn't mind sharing what ability is given to you by the X-Gene mutation?"
Eddie lets out a little squeak and sinks back into his chair when he gets that look from Kwabena. He gets the message and it is true. He'd take the secret to his grave. "I w-will," he replies firmly.
He stays quiet as the talk of faith goes on, just eating his meal. When asked about his powers, he perks up. "Sure. I um, well I m-make people stronger. And then I c-can do what they do," he says. "It's easier to show than explain."
"I'd suggest you demonstrate on me, but that's probably a really good way for you to get a very large headache very fast," Jocelyn says. Suddenly seeing all the energy around you, especially where they were? Yeah. That wasn't for someone new to her ability. Not that she counted as old hand to it, but it was still true.
"You're not the only one, Kwabena," Jocelyn tells him. "I've had a few moments where I wish I'd taken that advice to heart". But she wasn't too terrible at it, most of the time. Despite what Doug seemed to think, but she just had this way of botching things spectacularly around him.
She lets Shift handle the detail of reinforcing the secrecy of their existance to Eddie. She figured Eddie wasn't going to do anything to put Vic in danger anyway.
With an odd look, Kwabena sets down his fork and knife, and turns to face Eddie more fully. "Well, I don't suppose... maybe a little demonstration wouldn't hurt."
The doctor is going to murder him.
"Okay, so, I will demonstrate what I can do, den, you show me how yours works." After all, his mutation was, and could be, generally harmless. Smoke wouldn't hurt the Hall of Thor, right?
Scooting back a bit, Kwabena stands, and then with a bit of focus, his body poofs into a cloud of roiling, black tendrils of smoke. The jeans, jacket, and t-shirt stay right where they are, as if being held aloft by the smoke.
"It wouldn't be the first time I had a headache from c-copying someone. Borrowing telepathy is nuts," Eddie chuckles. When Shift offers to demonstrate, Eddie nods. He watches curiously, eyes widening when Shift goes all smokey. "Whoa! That's r-really cool!" he says, grinning. "Oh man. That's g-gonna be a new one," he says, standing. "Alright. I'll wait till you um...change back," he says, getting ready to show his powers off.
Jocelyn just focuses on watching for now, mostly keeping an eye on Shift. She could keep an eye on him comfortably, even in smoke for, so if he wasn't able to change back, well, she couldn't force him back. But she could try and talk him back to himself. It seems to have worked a few times before. And hey, his clothing was still hovering there! That was a positive development.
The smoke hovers there for a few moments longer than perhaps it should have, but eventually, the sound of air being displaced fills the room as Shift reforms. There is a grimace on his face as he does so, as if accessing the feelings that draw that mutagenic nature was again difficult for him. Looking down, he smoothes out his clothes for a moment, before taking his seat again. "'Cool' isn't the half of it," Kwabena offers, studying Eddie for a moment while fighting a grin from forming on his face. "I can also do liquid, and a more solid state." Now, that grin shows up. "But, you... won't ask me to demonstrate -dem- today. I'm afraid dat could get a little ugly."
Eddie nods and glances to Jocelyn. "Since you c-can see energy. This might get um...bright," he warns. Focusing on Shift, Eddie starts using his powers. As he activates his boosting power, he lights up brightly with faith energy to Jocelyn's senses. Once Eddie finishes boosting Shift, he nods and there's another little flash of light. When it clears, Eddie's clothes have shifted into a fusion of his own and Shift's outfit. He looks down at himself before just going all 'poof' into smoke form himself just like Shift did. He stays that way for a moment longer before becoming solid again. "Wow."
A slight bit of concern crosses Jocelyn's face, but Shift does rematerialize, so she is spared having to figure out some way of dragging his smokey butt back to the manor. Probably in a vacuum cleaner or something. It would be most undignified.
It wasn't as bad as Thor and Sif's energy, Jocelyn figured. Really it wasn't. Jocelyn does nod, however, as she watches the demonstration, and she blinks just a bit at the flash of energy. "Impressive, and I imagine it's pretty useful," Jocelyn suggests. The clothing change does cause her to blink a few times. "Your clothes change too?" That was just a little odd to the teenager, though she could see how it makes a little bit of sense.
Kwabena reaches up to shield his eyes from the bright light for a moment, then blinks and watches slackjawked as the teenager mimics his own mutation. "What the..." Looking down at his own hands, he considers the warmth that seems to have spread throughout his body, the strength that bursts into his veins. A rush of excitement comes to him, and then, he turns and looks toward the balcony.
"Jocelyn..." He starts walking toward that balcony with purposeful steps. "If this goes bad, I will take full responsibility." He breaks into a run, and then, upon reaching the balcony, the mutant bursts into smoke. This time, however, the clothes are left behind, and the column of smoke goes -leaping- into the air, zooming off into the cityscape in a blur.
Eddie blushes as Jocely calls him impressive. "It has b-been pretty useful," he admits. When asked about the clothes, he nods. "Y-yeah. And if I copied Vic, I'd turn all green t-too," he says. "It's a little weird and I've ended up in s-s-some embarrassing outfits but it happens and I don't know why," he shrugs. When Shift starts walking towards the balcony, Eddie glances Jocelyn's way. He's not sure what the man is up to before he starts running. Eddie lets out a little squeak before scurrying after him. He follows Shift into the air in smoke for, no clothes left behind for him. "H-hey! If you go too far, you'll be out of my range," he calls.
Jocelyn dashes towards the window, pulling in kinetic energy of her own, just in case she needs it. "Kwabena!" she calls at the man as he goes flying. Then Eddie goes flying off, leaving her in Thor's Hall, alone.
This prompts her to mutter under her breath and sigh. "Courtney...where the hell are you when I need you, damnit?" Seriously, she could use Stargirl and her staff of Make Jocelyn Fly right about now.
That cloud of smoke is traveling well beyond its normal pace, reaching subsonic speeds that blast it far out over the Atlantic Ocean and beyond, until New York City is no longer in sight. However, Eddie's voice carries to him in closeness, and Kwabena's face forms in the tendrils of swirling black, etched with glee.
That is, until he recognizes the words Eddie is calling out to him.
"What? Oh!" Their voices, while in smoke form, sound a bit hollow when they come forth. "Well, let us go back!" With a smooth arc, Shift arcs back around against the wind, zooming right back toward the balcony of Thor's apartment. The landing is a bit inglorious, smacking into the balcony so hard that Shift's smoke-form is dispersed over the entire balcony, but soon it reforms, leaving the X-Man clothed in his gunmetal gray attire of unstable molecules.
And he's laughing, heartily.
Category:Logs
Category:RPLogs