Thieves, Scoundrels, and All Kinds of Riffraff

Chapter 4

Ok, finally, here's the 4th chapter. I've gotta tell you guys that I really have to keep my writing to one chapter a week now. I've got to write some papers, and I'm not going to have much time during the week to work on this. And could some of you guys help me? You see, I'm using MS Word to write this up, and for some reason, italics and bold words don't show up in FF.net. Yet, I see people being able to do that. Could one of you kind people perhaps enlighten me? It's not completely necessary, but having italics and bold words do give me a certain flexibility when trying to convey certain feelings.

Disclaimers: Addy and Carey belong to yours truly, and Fayre and Eclipse belong to Icequeen and Phoenixdreams respectively.

Oh, and to everyone who reviewed, thank you soooo much!! Reviews really make my day. I'm a sucker for praise. To Sorceire and Pantera, I'm honored that you're reading this even though your characters aren't in it, and to Phoenixdreams… you liked the Psylocke fic? You really, really liked it? I am sooo happy!! XD This has convinced me to start writing all over again. Once I've finished this, of course. I'm sorry, but I've resolved to do only one story at a time. This ensures maximum quality, and it works since I don't have the time to do more than one story at a time. So I'll finish this, then I'll finish the Psylocke fic. And then I'll get started on my next one- I already have the plot in my head. It's going to be a Batman Beyond/Witchblade crossover. But at this rate, that's gonna take a few months at least, so cross your fingers!

* * * *

Cascade Cliffs, Montana

* * * *

Adrienne practically stumbled out of the plane. Her face was green, and combined with the redness of her sunburned face (which had, unfortunately, started to peel), made her look like the Grinch who stole Christmas. The plane flight had been TERRIBLE. Turbulence, sunburn, and bad, rock hard airplane peanuts had joined forces to make this one of the worst flights Adrienne had ever taken. But, she really didn't have much of a choice. After all, Amethyst had said that this was the fastest way to get to- in short, the middle of nowhere. The middle of nowhere that just happened to be named Cascade Cliffs, Montana. I'm never getting on one of THOSE again after this. Ever. The mere thought about even getting back on that plane for the return flight back made her even more uncomfortable.

She heaved her duffel bag up and looked out onto the airport tarmac. This wasn't an airport. This was a long strip of highway set up in the mountains, with a small building nearby that double up as the terminal. She then groaned at the weight of her bag. Carey had told her to pack some heavier clothes, as it was still pretty cold up in the mountains. So she'd called Amethyst, gotten a shopping allowance, and went nuts. And this is what I get for my greed- sore, strained arms and cranky airplanes. The thought occurred to her that if that was what happened to her when she got greedy, she'd better cancel the mission now. Then, she swatted it to the back of her mind, and shook her head. Nah.

Amazingly enough, there was a car rental place at the 'airport', and sure enough, Amethyst had arranged for a car for her. Well, perhaps it would've been more accurate to call this… THING masquerading as a truck a beat up pile of junk. Adrienne sincerely hoped that it was reliable enough, because she definitely did NOT want to have it break down on her in the middle of nowhere. She sighed, and heaved her bag over into the cargo area of the truck. She'd never envisioned herself driving a truck. Nor would she ever have wanted to. It really was amazing how circumstances could force one to change one's expectations and outlooks.

* * *

2 Hours Later

* * *

Adrienne was relieved as she finally pulled over into was vaguely resembled a town. The place had so many back roads and twists and turns that it had taken her a couple of hours to drive over a hill. Throw in the couple of times that she was sure the truck had nearly broken down on her and it all amounted up to be one VERY interesting ride. I never knew LDD (Long Distance Driving) could be so… interesting. She blew out her breath, and sat there for awhile. Well, then, better get some dinner into you, and figure out how to find this Fayre Donnelly, and figure out exactly where she stayed with that address that Carey had given her.

She drove up to a small diner that had to be the heart of the town's social life and parked there. Getting off, she walked into the diner, and was immediately assailed with all the smells and sounds of a small diner filled to the brim with people who had all just come to relax and engage in the town gossip after a hard day's work. And it sure SMELLS like it, too. The warmth of the diner encouraged the mingling of the wonderful smells of food cooking with the vague sourness of dried-up perspiration, and the potent mixture hit Adrienne like a truck.

She wove around the tables and found a two-person booth in the corner of the diner that was unoccupied. She sunk gratefully into it, and soon, a plump, platinum blond, red-faced waitress with a warm, pleasant smile came over to serve her. "Well, hiya, Hon. I'm Marge. Never seen you around before. Are you new around these parts?"

Adrienne smiled, grateful for the warm welcome. "Sort of. I'm actually looking for somebody. I'm not sure if you know who she is? Fayre Donnelly?"

A look of recognition dawned on the waitress' face. "Ah, Fairy. She's pretty well known around these parts. So you want to go and find her now, or order your dinner first?"

"Oh, definitely the dinner. I'm starved. So what do you recommend?"

"Oh, the bacon, eggs, flapjacks and sausage always sell. It's good for anytime of the day, not just for breakfast. Cookie's bacon and cheese hamburger's also pretty popular. And the kids always love the milkshakes."

"Hmm…." Breakfast right now sounded good. "I'll have the bacon, eggs, flapjacks and sausage. And coffee will be a godsend."

"Comin' right up. How do you like your eggs?"

"Scrambled, please. Oh, and one more thing. Do you think you could give me directions to her place afterwards? I have her address, but now that it's dark, it's not gonna be very useful."

"Sure thing, hon. I'll even call her and tell her that you're comin' over. It's not a good idea to surprise Fairy. Things get ugly when that happens. Now you just sit there and hang on a little longer, and I'll have your dinner over in a jiffy."

Adrienne sighed and leaned back. Finally, a little bit of rest. She decided to see how things were going with Amethyst, but then, she decided against it, thinking that she would probably have things under control in LA. I swear, I am sick and tired of moving around. All this traveling is exhausting me. The sooner we get our crew together, the better.

Then, to her relief, her coffee arrived. "I'm sorry this took so long, Hon, but I had to brew a fresh pot. Here you go. You look like you could use it. Your food's on its way. And as soon as I get a chance, I'll call Fairy, and she'll be over here ASAP. I guarantee that you'll be talkin' to her by the time you're done with your dinner."

"Thanks." Adrienne was genuinely grateful to the kindly waitress for helping her out. "I really appreciate this."

"It's nothin'. You remind me of one of my own, and I know that if I were your ma, I wouldn't want to have to worry about you. Besides, the good Lord would want us to help each other, huh? Now you sit tight, and just wait for your dinner to come, ok?"

* * * *

Ontario, Canada

* * * *

Carey shivered as he stepped out into the cold. It was supposed to be springtime in Canada, but who could forgive him if he wasn't used to the cold? He lived in California, for crying out loud. He pulled the collar of his trench coat up, and jammed his hands into his pockets. The sooner he found Eclipse, the better. He just wanted to get out of the cold.

After a short ride in the taxi, he managed to arrive at his destination. He quickly paid for the fare and got out. The taxi had dropped him off in a slightly shabby area of Ontario, where the people weren't exactly poor, but they certainly weren't rich, either. The neighborhood was relatively clean, and it was safe enough to walk around in the daytime, although night was a completely different matter. This seemed like a place where Eclipse would hide out, all right.

Word had it on the street that Eclipse was on the run again. It seems that something had happened, and she was a bit of a wanted person. But then again, weren't they all wanted? Raykel was in trouble with a big honcho (although he had absolutely no idea who it was- they didn't discuss such things in this business), and he and Gabe had been in their fair share of scrapes. Jay was a big-time car booster, the best in the business, and that made him every Auto Theft police department's living nightmare. In fact, the only people he could be certain were NOT wanted by somebody were Adrienne, and maybe, just maybe, Amethyst. She often funded such operations, but it was a behind-the-scenes thing, and it was unlikely that anybody would really know about her illegitimate business dealings.

He looked up at the sign above the shabby wooden door. The wooden sign had seen it's own share of wear and tear, but in the right light, one could faintly read the words "Night's Pub". It was a fitting name for a place where types such as him often gathered to do some anonymous socializing, gossiping, and drinking. The neighborhood was quiet enough that the cops weren't stationed here 24/7, but at the same time, shady enough that a guy could come here and do a bit of drinking with no questions asked. And this kind of place was perfect for a person like Eclipse to take temporary refuge in.

He sighed. I'm not even sure whether she's here. But I suppose this is as good a place to start as any. Although THAT was not a comforting thought. Trying to find a shape shifter who didn't want to be found was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Deciding that he had stood outside the pub long enough, he stepped forward, and pushed the doors open. The darkness was pungent, reeking with the smell of alcohol and cigarette smoke. He paused, giving himself a moment to let his eyes adjust.

It was a common tactic to have the place dark. That way, anybody who first came in was momentarily blinded, and had to pause before proceeding. The platform in front of the door extended for a few steps before it suddenly dropped into a flight of precarious steps, and anybody who didn't know about them would have a very unpleasant surprise in store for them. So, it was prudent to wait until one could see properly again. In addition, the dimness of the pub ensured that whoever was inside at the moment could give the newcomer a good once over; just to see what their next course of action was. Fleeing was always an option, if one felt that one's safety was compromised, and attacking somebody whom one had a grudge with was also a course that some might take. But most of the time, the patrons simply filed the newcomer away into a corner of their minds, returning to mind their own business after a few moments. If the newcomer fell, a good laugh or two would be ensured.

But always, minding one's own business would be a very prudent choice of action. Getting in trouble with this lot was not a good idea.

Carey made his way down the steps, and headed over to the counter, and the bartender behind it. It was a little early in the evening for alcohol, but what the heck, he didn't have to drive anyways. "Tequila, on the rocks."

The bartender, a scruffy old man in his late 40's, grunted in acknowledgement and set to work. He certainly goes with the décor of this place. Old and scruffy. Carey's order was set in front of him, and he took a seat, surveying the area. He knew that looking this way for Eclipse was hopeless, but trying never hurt anyone. "Hey, bartender. You know of anyone named Eclipse who's been through here recently?"

The old man stared at Carey as if he had just sprouted a third nostril. "You're in the wrong place, kid. I suggest you get out before something happens to you."

Carey sighed. That had come out completely wrong. "Forget it."

Meanwhile, in the corner of the dim bar, under the shadows of the counter, a small mouse nibbled at a crumb, it's pink nose twitching as it sniffed the air, and it's large ears twisting this way and that, honing in on various sounds that filtered out from the murmured conversations taking place in the various corners of the shady pub. It paused, as it caught a very familiar word. "… named Eclipse who's been through here recently?"

Interesting. This could be risky, but one never gained profit without taking risks. Jumping in would not be prudent, however. So testing the water was a must. The mouse looked around, making sure that the way was clear, before scurrying away to the restroom. She would change shape there. And then, she would see why this person was looking for her.

Carey sipped at his drink, trying to think of another way to go about looking for Eclipse. He was beginning to get frustrated. He'd never expected finding her to be easy, but at this rate, he might as well give up. Having a shape shifter would be an invaluable asset, but it wasn't entirely necessary. He still needed to look some others up, because a crew of 5 would not be enough to pull this off.

Just then, he saw somebody slip into the seat beside him. It was a middle aged man, short, who was a little on the stout side. His whiskers were slightly dirty, and his teeth were yellow, stained from years of cigarette smoking, no doubt. Carey knew because the man had grinned toothily at him shortly after he'd looked at him. This immediately put Carey on edge. People here didn't smile.

"Can I help you?" Despite his suspicion, it was always a good idea to remain polite. No sense angering somebody when there was no need to do so. He had his own share of enemies, and really wasn't keen to add more people to this list.

"Word around here is that you're askin' around for Eclipse."

"What's it to you?"

"I might be able to help. So why are you lookin' for her?"

"Some guy hired me to find her for him."

She immediately began to be suspicious. "Who is he?"

"Sounds like an interrogation." Mused Carey, as he nursed his drink. "What are you, some kind of cop?" He kept his eyes on the bartender, who was 'inconspicuously' drying shot glasses at the other end of the counter.

The old man mentally narrowed his eyes. Does he know? One thing was certain, this wasn't going anywhere. Time to take another risk. "Look, I've got… connections to her. But I have to be… careful."

Carey pondered about accepting this offer. Something told him that he was very close. Maybe, maybe he just might be able to get Eclipse on his crew after all. Addy wouldn't like you calling it 'your crew'. He was rather amused at that thought. Well, it is my crew. If she's upset, then she's just gonna have to deal with it. "The guy's called Carey Li."

It was all she could do to prevent herself from starting. That was one person she'd never expected. And since when had Carey started to hire people to do his work for him? Li was known for his scrupulous attention to detail. He would never trust others to do his work for him. Unless… this was Li himself. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Smart, very smart. He'd nearly had her fooled. Well, two could play this game.

"Talk ain't cheap." The simple statement hung in the air, and she waited for his response.

Carey sighed. Frankly, he wasn't surprised that this hadn't happened sooner. He reached for his wallet, and opened it. He drew out a US 50 dollar note, and slid it over the counter to the informant. "Talk."

She picked up the note, rubbing it between her now thick, rough fingers. Not bad. "Tomorrow, at the L'Aigle d'Or restaurant in downtown Ontario. 12 o'clock pm sharp. Get a table for two. She'll approach you, so don't bother looking for her. G'night, sir." The man got up, and tipped his hat to Carey. He then left, pulling his coat tighter about him as he stepped out into the chilly night air.

Carey sighed. I suppose I should try and book a table at that place. Goodness knows that it's not gonna be easy.

* * * *

Cascade Cliffs, Montana

* * * *

Adrienne sighed in pleasure as she put her fork and knife down. Dinner had been fantastic. Over the course of her long, and very quiet dinner, the after-work crowd at the diner had thinned out, most of the people going home to eat dinner with their families. There was going to be work tomorrow, and they'd wanted to squeeze in some quality time with their families before they went to bed. Marge had come and gone, always showing up at the perfect time, filling Adrienne's coffee cup just before it was empty. I can see why Fayre decided to settle down here. It's peaceful, quiet, serene. The people here are good, too. Kind, friendly, and generous. The darker side of civilization hadn't ravaged this town yet. It was all the more reason to treat this place like the haven that it was. Adrienne made a mental note to find and settle down in a place like this after the heist. She could do without the dark, crowded city from time to time.

Suddenly, a sudden movement out of the corner of her eye then startled her. Looking up, her eyes met with a pair of deep blue eyes, set in a face framed by silky jet-black hair. "Hey! You must be Adrienne. Marge said you were looking for me. Mind if I take a seat?"

Adrienne grinned back at the newcomer, her friendly greeting contagious. "Please do. You're quite the godsend. I've been looking for you for the past day or so. You're Fayre, right?"

"Call me Fairy. Most of the people around here do. And I'm sorry that I took so long to come over. I was busy, taking a shower."

"What're you apologizing for? I should be the one saying sorry. I should've gone looking for you, not the other way around. I'm exhilarated that you came down here. That way I don't have to go back out into the cold."

Fayre laughed. "Anything for Marge. And you're not from around here, are you? We 'hill billies' around here think this is warm. It's lovely weather, compared to what we have during winter."

"Riiiight. Whatever. You know, don't mind me saying this, but at first, I couldn't understand why on earth you would come here to live. But now, after spending some time here, I can understand. Maybe, after I retire, I might do something similar. Just with someplace warmer."

"A little early to be talking about your retirement, huh?"

"Not as early as you think." Adrienne leaned forward, and lowered her voice a notch. "Fairy, I'm gonna make a proposition to you. One that is impossible to pass up. And if you accept, and it carries through, you'll be able to retire permanently in, oh, say 3 months time, a very rich and happy woman."

Fayre raised one eyebrow. "That's a very impressive promise."

"You're a person with impressive skills. If you accept, you'll be en route to LA tomorrow morning, preparing to immerse yourself in the challenge of a lifetime."

"What if I choose not to accept?"

"You can come back here, to your peaceful existence. No obligation. Except of course, your silence."

"Hm." Fayre's eyes took on a distant look as she thought about her decision. "Ok then. I'm in."

* * *

Ontario, Canada

* * *

The Next Day

* * *

Carey glanced around the busy French restaurant, keeping a sharp eye out for anybody who might be approaching him. It had been hard enough to get a table on such short notice, and he certainly didn't want it to go to waste. Which means you might as well order, idiot. He said that Eclipse would approach you. So why're you racking your brains? He reluctantly acknowledged the common sense of his inner voice, and so, he picked up the menu, getting ready to order his lunch.

The waiter took his order, and he ordered a bottle of wine to go with his lunch. The food came, and Carey sat through the appetizer, the main course, and was getting ready to select the after meal cheeses when she finally showed up. A leggy blond Amazon slid into the chair opposite his, flashing a dazzling white smile at him. "I'm sorry, hon." She leaned forward, and kissed Carey full on the lips, startling him in her sudden invasion of his privacy. It was really all he could do to stop himself from pulling away. "I was a little held up at work. The photographer just insisted on taking more pictures until he got them absolutely perfect." Spying the waiter and the cart of cheeses that he was pushing, she arched a perfectly groomed eyebrow. "I see you didn't wait for me, huh?"

"Well, uh, I didn't think that you were gonna show up." That was the truth, and the only answer he could think of right now. He finally understood how Gabe had felt when he had ambushed him. "W-would you like to have a drink?" They had to keep up appearances.

"Of course. I'll just have what you're having." She nodded at the wine in his glass.

Carey looked expectantly at the waiter. "Coming right up, sir. And which cheeses would you like to have? I believe you hadn't made your selection just yet." The stranger who had just kissed him set about ordering cheeses for the two of them, allowing Carey some blessed time to gather his wits about him and figure out just what the hell was going on here.

Carey looked at the woman sitting opposite him, her platinum blond hair reflecting the sunlight streaming through from the window. He still wasn't completely sure that she was Eclipse, but at this point in time, he really didn't have a choice as to whether or not he should go along with her. But, nobody else would have known about his appointment here at L'Aigle d'Or with the shape shifter. She turned back to him after she had finished ordering.

"Well, Carey, honey, you wanted to talk to me about something?"

He had to verify that this was really Eclipse. He couldn't tell just anyone about the heist. So, he decided to test her. "How do you know about me?"

The previous warmth that had been present in her speech and expression melted away to reveal stony features and hard eyes. "Heard you were looking for Eclipse. Well, you wanted to talk to her, and you got what you wanted. Don't think that your little charade last night didn't fool me."

"It was just a precaution." Carey's eyes narrowed a little, and his voice lowered a notch. He had forgotten just how much of a pain Eclipse could be. Still, her skills were worth braving her personality faults. "I've got an offer to make."

"Talk, because I'm starting to get impatient. I'm not here to waste my time. And if I find that you've done just that, I'm going to get very uspet. And you know that you DON'T want that to happen."

"It's a heist. A big one. With an estimated take of at least 40 million US dollars."

"I'm in." The abruptness of her decision astounded Carey. Most people needed some time to consider their options. She hadn't even bothered to ask about the details. There was something suspicious about this whole thing.

"It's because you're in trouble, aren't you?"

"You were the one looking for me. Don't ask questions." She snapped.

"Very well, then." He opened his jacket, and reached his hand in to take out an envelope. He handed it to her, and she took it, fingering the stationary delicately. "There's a ticket to LA inside, along with a fake passport and ID. There's a number to call when you reach LA. Follow the directions that it gives you. I suggest that you leave as soon as possible, because that plane leaves in a short while. Now, if you would excuse me." He pushed his chair back, and got up. "Have a nice flight."

He then turned and walked out of the restaurant, leaving Eclipse to pick up the tab. Bitch. The hairs on her neck bristled. She hadn't even eaten anything. Signaling for the check, she quickly paid, and left. He wasn't kidding when he said that the plane was leaving soon. In an hours time, to be exact.

Bitch.