Summary: Ever wanted to go shopping with someone you barely even know that annoys the crap out of you? Yeah… Neither does Cloud. That's why Dart is going to make it his goal to drive the poor blonde insane… BY GETTING AN ARMY OF EVIL AFTER THEM! And I do mean "army."
Word Count: 7,242
Rain's A/N: You think we would learn to never promise to update more when in reality we are a bunch of lazy asses that don't like to use our brains. :Sighs: Well, I do want to try to write more of these. The boys hold a special place in my heart and I want to make sure their awesomeness is shown. I know that Vix and I have lives that just LOVE kicking us in the ass but… I just HAVE to try. And I'll force her to try, also! Well… I got nothing else to say. Just enjoy the crazy and we'll see you soon… ish. I hope… ENJOY!
Vix's A/N: These breaks are seriously getting old! We need to stop going on such long vacations, I tell ya! Hopefully we'll be back and doing these much more often though. It's really nice to take a break from all the serious writing I do, and a waaaay too hectic (and real!) life to just enjoy my two favorite boys! :Hearts!: They bring such peace and cheer to my life like I can never express. So I'm just going to leave it at that and let you guys enjoy the chaos once again! And stay tuned for Rain's and my new updates of First Impressions right after this! For now, enjoy the show! :Winks!:
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Chapter Three: Shopping with Mall Cops
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Vix: Mwahahaha! Here we are again, Rain! And do you know what fearsome planet we're going to be dropping off the boys in this time? :Evil grin:
Rain: ...as long as it's not a volcano after the last smoldering heated place, I really don't care. :Experiencing a migraine:
Vix: Nope! We're going to give them a break and put them into OUR world! Yay air conditioning and claustrophobia! 8D
Rain: Okay... I got the air conditioning part... but what the hell do you mean by "claustrophobia?" :She asked nervously...:
Vix: Simple, my dear Rain! :Takes out pipe and starts pacing/smoking, acting like Sherlock Holmes: We shall be placing said beautiful men in the midst of one of the most heavily trafficked areas in our world today... A place where teenagers frequent, shops are plentiful, and crowding is inescapable. What do you deduce from that Wats—I mean, Rain?
Rain: ... :Eye twitches: Why would you ever want to take them to the redlight district! You sick little puppy! O.o
Vix: :Chokes on her fake pipe and bends over coughing for a good five minutes before she straightens: AHEM! ...no, I think we'll save that for the dress talk. XD I meant, we're sending them... TO THE MALL! 8D
Rain: ...I think they'd do better in the redlight district... :Cocks head to the side as she realizes what was said: "Dress talk?" Nevermind... I don't want to know.
Vix: Well I'll tell you anyway! In the meanwhile! :Snaps fingers for the bunnies to sentence the boys to their DOOOOO—uh, I mean...place them down nicely? Takes Rain by the hand and drags her away, explaining the "dress talk" to her:
Rain: :Being dragged: Oi... just where are you taking me for this "talk?" Shouldn't we be paying attention to the boys?
Vix: Don't worry! I tapped into the mall's camera surveillance system. ;D
Magical Bunnies: :Poof into the middle of a random store and drop them both...thankfully without the duct tape:
Rain: ...so this is what you've been doing in your spare time, Vix. I knew you were a pervert but I didn't think you'd stoop to this.
Vix: Stoop? :Blinks incredulously and then grins: Rain, you should know me better than that! I have no shame! :Laughs proudly!: Besides... if you don't want to watch the fun, you don't have to come. ;D :Goes on without her:
Rain: ...I didn't say I wasn't going to watch... :Continues to follow, donuts and milk in hand: Where's the movie? :Grins sheepishly:
Cloud: :Crash lands on a few mannequins: ... :Plastic leg protruding from his mouth; grunts and spits it out angrily: Those furballs... I'll roast them the next time they toss me into a dump. :Glances around: Where...? :Blinks: ... :Sulks: You've got to be kidding me...
Dart: :Falls on top of a clothing rack: Ughh... Pain in my... Ack! :Slips off the clothing rack onto the floor: Oof! My a-AH! :Clothing rack falls on top of him; silence...: AHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRGGGGHHHH! :Shoves clothing rack off of himself, flailing his arms to be rid of it and gets covered in hangers and a certain type of clothes in the process; finally crawls out and lays panting on the ground, a complete mess: FREE! THANK SOA!
Cloud: :Hears the racket from a very recognizable voice: You really have got to be kidding me... :Looks over his shoulder to see the man with the red armor: ... :Sighs: Perfect... :Stands up, letting all the plastic limbs fall from his form as he walks over to the other: Loud as ever, I see. Get up. Let's get out of this place... quickly. :Seems a bit disturbed by haunting memories:
Dart: :Lifts his head and grins as he notices the other man is apparently here too: Oh, hey! Dude, and here I was wondering where I was going to land, ugh... :Gets up, clutching his stomach: That fall really killed me. :Grimaces and then tries to shake his head to get a particular piece of cloth out of his eye: We landed in some... cloth factory? :Brushes it out of his hair before noticing more metal and plastic things with cloth pieces attached to his legs and shirt, tries shaking them off as he half-limps and half-hops after the other blonde: Huh? Why? Is there a problem? :Seems bewildered:
Cloud: No. Let's just get ou- :Eyes the man covered in the foul garments then sighs: You always seem to get yourself into these sorts of things... it suits you. :Removes one from the dirty-blonde's shoulder and holds it with just his index and thumb, as if disgusted by it: An exact replica? :Shudders: Let's go. :Grabs the other's wrist and begins making his way to the exit:
Dart: :Stops as the man picks the clothing off of him, grasping the item from the air as the blonde holds it with apparent disgust; doesn't say anything as he's being dragged through the store, only holds the item closer to his face for examination before suddenly realizing what it is: Wait. This is clothing. :Looks up at the darkly dressed man: What kind of clothing is this? :Waves the item to try to get the blonde's attention:
Cloud: :Stops abruptly, slowly turning to the other: You... really... don't... know? :Horrified: I thought you took off plenty of these! :Lowers voice: You seemed experienced enough. :Raises it again: I don't take kindly to one who messes with me... :Begins to crush Dart's wrist:
Dart: :Seems shocked at the expression on the other blonde's face, eyes widening slightly as he steps back slightly: Wh-whoa, wait a minute there, pal. :Winces as the other man's grip tightens around his wrist: Hey! What's the- :Suddenly his eyes catch sight of a nearby display...then slowly drift to the infuriated man...then back to the article of clothing in his hand: ...WHOA! THESE ARE GIRLS' THINGS! :Chucks the item over his shoulder and lurches forward against the other man, grabbing his shoulder as though desperately unsettled all of a sudden: WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME! :Shoves his face right up into the other blonde's, gritting his teeth: I don't want any trouble like I had the LAST time, got it? So let's just: Get. Out. Of. Here. NOW.
Cloud: Forgive me... I forgot you didn't have any common sense... :Pushes the slightly disturbed man off of him: We would have been out of here a long time ago if you didn't ask such a ridiculous question. :Begins rushing out of the store, addressing Dart without looking towards him: I might regret asking this... but... what exactly did you mean by "last time?"
Dart: :Fixes himself a little nervously, although getting considerably quickly over the discovery; follows after the man as swiftly as possible, keeping an eye out for anyone watching them and avoiding the gazes of others: Oh, well it was a half-educational, half evil plot experience devised by a friend of mine, which landed me in trouble with a, uh... another friend of mine. :Ducks low behind a shelf of clothing and slips towards the door to avoid a woman, lowers his voice to a whisper so only the other blonde can hear: The first friend, Meru, decided to educate me in the manners of girl-isms. Whatever those are. It ended up being awkward, uncomfortable, and then painful. :Grins suddenly at the memory, only a slight bit of embarrassment coloring his cheeks, but he does not continue:
Cloud: ... :Ignores a random giggle from a girl as he walks out the door and into the main walkway of the shopping center: "Awkward, uncomfortable, and then painful..." Sounds like my meeting with you. :Turns to the other: Do I really want to know where the story goes from there?
Dart: I don't know! You don't seem to be the type to be interested. :Grins easier this time and straightens before they walk out: You ask, I'll tell...at least most of it. :Looks around and sucks in a breath: ...hey, buddy. Where...are we? :Suddenly notices the huge ceiling, masses of people, and endless line of stores:
Cloud: :Sighs: I'd rather not know... :Walks past a noisy bunch of students, glancing from store to store, and walking away from the food court: I hope he doesn't notice... I don't think I can handle another escapade that involves his gut. :Quirks his brow to the dirty-blonde: It's a mall. A shopping center where you can purchase various goods. You don't have one where you come from?
Dart: :Nods: Thought so. I'm getting used to you a little bit. :Grins and lets his eyes roam, noticing the cleanliness, the unusual design, how pristine and white everything is, and shakes his head in response to the other blonde's answer: No. Well, maybe something like it. There's this large town I used to go through called Lohan that reminds me a little of this. But it wasn't this neat or cool... :Tilts his head up at the ceiling and the additional floors there: And it looks like we're walking inside a big city here, with a roof over it that has a giant bazaar inside of it. I've never been to a place like this... :Trails off as he keeps turning his head and looking around:
Cloud: "Lohan?" Well, then you should be able to survive. :Already searching for the nearest exit: Maybe this way... :Doesn't seem too impressed with the scenery as he passes an electronics store; takes note of a certain someone not following: Dart. Don't fall behind.
Dart: :Starts as he hears his name called and then stares at the other blonde in silent shock for a few moments: Did he just call me...? :Nods and then moves to catch up to him, still looking around, but not hiding the cautious glance that sneaks towards the other man:
Cloud: :Ignores him: I wonder if we're any closer to the exit? :Still trying to ignore him: Perhaps that way. :Looking towards the direction of a fountain; no longer can ignore him: What's with the staring?
Dart: :Shrugs and then grins casually at the question: Nothing, if you didn't notice it. :Walks near to the fountain, gazing at it with interest as they pass by; watches another group of teens walk past them, pointing to him and the other blonde and whispering not-so-quietly: What's with them?
Cloud: How annoying... Of course I noticed it... :Glares at the teens before answering: Who knows... maybe they want you to make a wish, since you keep staring at the fountain. :Deliberately stays away from the real reason they are being talked about:
Dart: What? Make a wish? :Looks at the fountain and takes a step out of their planned route to walk towards it: How do I make a wish? :Peers into the water: Hey pal! Someone left an entire purse of coins in here! Look at all of them! :Puts his hand in and pulls out a penny: Well this is the funniest coin I've ever seen. Can't be worth much, judging by how light it is.
Cloud: ... :Grabs Dart's ear and pulls him away: Are you trying to get arrested? You're not supposed to take the coins. You're supposed to leave them. :Exasperated sigh: Never made a wish, have you?
Dart: OUCH! Don't tug! Stop! :Smacks the blonde's arm away: Cut it out! You could ask! And no I'm not trying to get arrested! Why would I get ar—oh. Well thanks for telling me now. :Grumbles and crosses his arms, throwing a glare at the fountain: Why do I have to pay someone to make a wish anyway? It's my wish.
Cloud: :Twitch: Because that's not how it works. Some people believe that if you toss a coin into a fountain, you are paying tribute to water deities since water is seen as a gift from the gods in order to have their wish granted. Water is seen as a source of life, a natural resource with healing abilities. :Whispers into the other man's ear: Many people hold this custom in high regard so I would hold my tongue if I were you.
Dart: Oh... :Quiets and looks at the coin still in his hand before breaking away from the blonde and going back over to the fountain, placing the coin back under the water without dropping it, this time taking the time to wipe his hand on his pants; walks back to the other swordsman and nods with a smile: Lead the way.
Cloud: :Eyes the dirty-blonde curiously, studying each motion he makes intently: He took that better than I thought he would. :Blinks slowly whilst getting lost in his thoughts for a moment: I guess there's still hope for him... :Returns from the depths of his mind once he was addressed by the other: ...right. :Turns, tossing his head faintly in the direction he plans to go:
Dart: :Starts off in the direction indicated:
:Suddenly, a police officer shows up:
Police Officer: Hey, you two there! :Pulls out a gun suddenly and aims it at them: Stop where you are, fellas, and lift your hands, putting them up nice and easy, now!
Dart: Huh? :Looks over his shoulder, bewildered by the oddly dressed man and the object in his hand: Hey, buddy. Is that guy talking to us?
Police Officer: Oh a smart guy, eh? Come on! Be quiet! Put your hands up!
Dart: ...he is talking to us! :Eyes the man curiously: Hey. :Nudges Cloud: What do you think he wants?
Cloud: :Glares at the doofus: We are two very suspicious individuals and he's a police officer... what do you think he wants? If you say a donut I am so murdering you. :Snarls viciously:
Dart: :Stares at the blonde man for a moment and then glances to the strangely dressed 'officer': ... :Looks back to Cloud: What's a police officer?
Cloud: ... :Narrows eyes: You've been to prison and you have no idea what a 'police officer' is? You are hopeless.
Vix: ...did he just mention Dart going to jail?
Rain: He did... how in the world did he know that? :Is a bit scared by Cloud's know-it-all brain:
Vix: ...that's it. I'm placing guards around my surveillance systems. He will not break in anymore! :Roars!:
Rain: Uh... I don't think that's it... :Sweat drop:
Dart: ...OH! You mean something like a guard or a jailer then? :Grins: I know what that is! But why is he- :Points to the Police Officer: -telling us to stop and pointing that weird thing at us?
Cloud: Well, I don't know... why don't you take a real hard look at yourself, me, and then the passersby of this world? You might get an idea as to why he wants us to stop and why he's pointing his gun at us. :Has a feeling his sarcasm will be lost on the poor soul:
Dart: :Looks at Cloud, then at himself, and then at all the people beginning to gather at the scene: ...well we're clearly better dressed. Though I haven't the slightest clue what a "gun" is. :Shrugs and turns to the Officer: Sorry! We don't want any, buddy! Thanks anyway though! :Turns and begins to walk away:
Police Officer: H-hey! Where do you think you're going, punk! Stop! Or I'll shoot! :Aims his gun at the red man:
Cloud: ... :Hangs head low: You're not supposed to run from the police... However... seeing as how we'd probably get thrown in jail due to your idiocy... :Jumps over the officer, landing swiftly behind him, and lands a blow at the back of his neck, knocking him unconscious: ...we might as well get away while we still can. :Runs past the dirty-blond, grabbing his wrist once more to drag him away from the scene of the crime; educating him along the way: Dart, there will be more of these officers coming after us, I'm sure. They each carry a gun. "Guns" are weapons, which inhabit tiny projectiles called "bullets," used to kill in a quick and efficient manner. Guns are extremely dangerous so, for Shiva's sake, don't let the bullets hit you.
Dart: :Turning back to see what was taking the blonde so long just as Cloud runs up to him and then tugs him along: Whoa! :Breaks into a run but turns his head towards the other man as he begins to explain things; speaks up a minute after Cloud finishes: I understand, but what would they throw us in jail for? You said our appearance was different, but...that couldn't be it, could it? Was it the coin I took from the fountain? :Seems grieved by the thought: I didn't realize wish-making was such an important aspect of this "mall's" society.
Cloud: :Shoots a frustrated glare at Dart: You really haven't figured it out? How would you feel seeing someone dressed strangely with blades at their sides? Wouldn't you feel a bit threatened by that? :Notices three more guards coming for them; takes Dart's wrist from his right hand into his left whilst placing his right on Dart's back, forcing him to run faster than before: Take a good look around. Normal citizens do not carry weapons or wear armor so, naturally, we stand out.
Dart: :Furrows brows and glares over his shoulder at the blonde as he attempts to "help" him; increases his speed on his own: So we're a little different! All we did was talk, walk, and I accidentally took out a coin from the fountain dedicated to wishes! But I put it back! :Grabs the other man's arm and pulls him forward and around to break his hold and bring him almost in front of himself, then dashes swiftly into the first entrance around a corner: Let's hide for a whi- :Blinks as he slows and notices...: ...animals?
Cloud: ... :Stares blankly into the pet shop: ... :Narrows eyes to the other man: ...couldn't you have picked a better place? We are bound to get noticed here. :Glances at the puppies and kitties through the glass panel:
Dart: ...too bad. Let's hide! :Pulls him in further and goes towards the back, looking around at the small, fluffy creatures as they pass: They all look so docile. :Turns a corner so that they're out of sight of the entrance and his eyes land on a large glass stand separated into parts, and filled with puppies: Aww... look at these little guys! :Drops Cloud's arm and walks forward, crouching down in front of the display case:
Cloud: :Annoyed: Glad to see you are having fun... :Keeps a look out whilst allowing Dart to play with the animals: Just try to keep it down, will you?
Dart: :Completely didn't hear him, busy holding a gray and white puppy with a black spot over one eye just an inch away from his face: Who's a cute little buddy-wuddy? Are you, are you wagging your tail at meeee? Are you wagging it at meeeee! That little stumpy tail of yours! :Puppy licks his nose: Awwhawhawwwww~ You little fluffy rascal!
Cloud: :Slowly turns his head to look at the other, a bit confused: He really is... strange... doesn't even seem to care the kind of situation he has put us in... :Sighs and stares at the two creatures making kissy faces to one another: ... :Smiles a little at the small pup in Dart's hands:
Dart: :Snorts and laughs as the puppy makes a whimper: Alright, buddy. I know. You wanna give the other man some love! Come on little guy! :Stands up with the pup gently in his arm and turns around; reaches for one of Cloud's hands and pulls it out, gently depositing the small puppy into the blonde man's arms: He wanted to say hello. :Grinning down at the puppy: Isn't that right, fluffball? Yeah, of course it is. Ah! :Smiles as the puppy sniffs Cloud's arm and then gently takes his sleeve into its mouth: See! I knew he'd like you!
Cloud: W-wait... :Before getting his complete thoughts out, the little puppy was already chewing on his sleeve: D-don't do that. Hey! :Picks up the puppy with his free hand and glares right into his eyes: Bad puppy. :Continues to glare as the little guy lets out a tiny bark and places his paw on Cloud's nose: ...just like him, huh? Well... :Blows gently on his paw, grabbing him with both hands to stare at him a bit before placing the pup gently into his arms, giving him a warm hug: Feel like being disobedient now? Yeah. I didn't think so. :Triumphant:
Dart: :Watches the man interact with the pup with a deftness and gentleness that belied experience, smiling faintly at the sight, and saying nothing as the blonde fell into conversation with the little fluffer:
Cloud: :Still holding onto the puppy, brings him closer to his face after hearing the pup make a small sound: Hm? What's wrong? :Pup takes strand of Cloud's hair into his mouth, leaving drool at its wake: ...I'm guessing this little one is... hungry... :Puppy's tail begins wagging continuously: Yeah... he is...
Dart: :Chuckles and turns around, reaching into the display case and taking out small bag of the dried food: Here. :Holds it out in his palm to him:
Cloud: :Puppy still chewing on his hair: ...a little help first. :Makes no attempt to separate the little one from himself:
Dart: :Grins and walks up to the man, then gently wiggles his finger near the puppy's mouth, touching it to the side of his teeth until the pup turns its attention on the finger and licks it before biting down on it; winces and laughs: You're free now. Here. :Holds up his other hand full of the food: Now feed him before I lose a digit.
Cloud: :Wraps his hand on the wet tip of his hair, drying it out by rubbing down on it: "Lose a digit?" That really wouldn't be so bad but... :Grabs the food, holding a piece under the nose of the pup; watches as the pup loses interest in the dirty-blonde's finger to gobble down the tiny morsel: ...I wouldn't want to see your blood spilled all over the innocent. :Pours more of the bag of food's contents into his palm, placing it right under the puppy's mouth, allowing him a much more comfortable reach:
Dart: Well I was going to say "lose a limb" but I thought you'd nitpick. Apparently, that didn't stop you in the least. And don't you worry about him getting dirty. :Points to the pup as he lets go his finger before wiping it off on his pants: He'll do that all on his own without my help. :Takes the bag and places it away again, leaning against a shelf and watching the blonde with the pup; after a moment, he speaks up again: So have you had a dog before?
Cloud: :Lowers gaze to the pup eating messily in his hand: No... not mine... just a stray that hung around my hometown. I used to feed it whenever it came around my house but... that's all. :Looks longingly at the little guy:
Dart: :Watches the lowered gaze carefully: So is that who you meant when you mentioned "him"?
Cloud: :Eyes widens a bit, a small wince escapes his lips, but quickly recovers before the red-armored man notices: Yeah... I suppose so...
Dart: :Eyes widen fractionally for a second and he studies the man's face, but one instant too late, it seems: ... :After a moment longer, he tilts his head and then opens his mouth: OH. FELINES! :Actually bounds away at that point with a new spring to his step: Come and see the poofy little—AH! She hissed at me! Bad kitty! Don't eat the nice man coming to say hello! I think she just doesn't like me. Hey, come over here! :Turns grinning and beckoning to the blonde, a black and brown kitten in his hand, clawing happily at his glove:
Cloud: :With one last hug of the pup, he places him back in his little den then walks to where his not-so-intelligent companion stood: You have a way with animals, I see. :Sighs, gently taking the kitten into his hands, gently petting her in slow, soothing motions: Might not want to be so rough with felines. They won't hesitate to scratch your eyes out and make you blind. Now then. :Grabs Dart's hands and places them tenderly around the kitty, showing him the exact amount of pressure to use and the kind of gentleness to show: Try rubbing behind her ears. That should warm her up to you. :Shows him exactly where to rub whilst the kitty begins purring happily: See? Try it. :Backs away from the two and watches, a bit amused:
Dart: :Smiles to the blonde as he comes over and looks down at the kitten: Well she seemed to be enjoying herself. :Nevertheless he watches as the other man instructs him and when the kitten is placed back in his hands, he gently mimics the actions demonstrated; the kitten, much more satisfied, repeats its vocal delight: ...thanks. I think I got it now. Though uh. If I stop, will she scratch me? :Grins sheepishly:
Cloud: :Closes his eyes, hint of a smile tracing his lips: I'm sure she would. She's an intelligent being. There's no way she would pass up a chance in scratching a person like you. :Glances up at him then to the kitty, nodding to her as if giving her permission to execute such an action:
Dart: :Smiles wryly: Thanks, buster. You're always so reassuring. :Gently rubs his finger over the tuft of fur between the kitten's ears and then replaces her gently back in her display case with her companions, breathing a sigh of relief when he comes out unscathed: Okay. I think...by now we should have lost the scouts. Though I don't really want to leave until I see the chipmunks. :Glancing around through the cages now, walking slowly down the aisle:
Cloud: "Chipmunks?" :Follows idly behind: You can't buy them in a pet shop. They are only located in the wild... and in a zoo but I'd rather stay away from those places... Hey. :Stops following: We should get out of here while it's still quiet.
Dart: :Turns around and looks at the other blonde: What? You're kidding! :Seems incredulous about the entire thing but walks towards the front of the store regardless as he talks: How can you not sell chipmunks but sell vicious felines! It makes no sense!
Cloud: Chipmunks aren't exactly the friendliest of creatures either. :Stealthily searches outside the shop for any officers that may still be lurking around: Clear. :Glances at the other out of the corner of his eyes: Ready, chipmunk lover? :Takes his leave without waiting for a response:
Dart: You've probably never owned one, so you wouldn't know just how affectionately devious they can be. But I forgive you. :Follows the blonde after the short pause at the door, looking around but more alert to danger this time: So how do we get out of here?
Cloud: ... :Examines his surroundings, taking note of all possible escape routes: I won't lie... it's going to be difficult. There's still too many people around which means a guard can't be too far off. :Chuckles as he recalls an incident similar to this: If my friend were here, he'd insist on just running head first into the mass and forcing our way through. I must admit... :Narrows his eyes in the direction running between a DVD stand and a massage center, towards an escalator leading to the lower levels: ...he was effective in getting the job done, if a bit barbaric. :Turns gaze onto Dart: So? Think you can handle it?
Dart: :Grins at the recounting, imagining it for himself and clasping his fist in one hand, nodding curtly: I like his style! Let's go! :Decides not to wait and leaps onto the escalator railing, running down it effectively if needing to jump over an arm and a hand every once in a while on his way down: Come on! Aren't you supposed to be leading the way!
Cloud: ... :Sighs, shaking his head: Maybe I shouldn't have told him about Barret... :Jumps into the air, landing on the railing of the escalator: Too late now... :Slides down and jumps off once at the bottom, flips in the air to land at few feet away from Dart: I'm here, aren't I?
Guard 1: Oi! There they are!
Guard 2: Don't let them escape!
Cloud: Well, now... :Runs up to a little boy holding a light saber toy:
Little Boy: Wow, Mister! You jump almost as high as a kangaroo! :Laughs whole-heartedly:
Cloud: :Eye twitches: Really? Well, am I flattered... listen kid, can I borrow this? :Points to the saber:
Little Boy: But... you have your own sword. :Points to Cloud's blade:
Cloud: Yeah... but yours looks a lot more fun. :Goes down on one knee, gazing at the little boy with a smile on his face: I promise to return it to you.
Little Boy: :Seems a but flustered but hands over the toy: Okay, Mister. Enjoy! :Grins happily:
Cloud: :Takes the saber, patting the boy's head gently: Thanks.
Guard 2: You're mine! :Swings his baton at Cloud's side:
Cloud: :Dodges and whacks the officer's head hard with the plastic toy:
Guard 2: Wah! :Falls over, lying on the ground feeling dizzy:
Guard 1: Careful! He's a got a plastic saber! :Takes out helmet, placing it firmly on the top of his scalp:
Cloud: :Seems to be enjoying himself, tossing the sword back to the boy: Thanks. You just saved my life. :Runs off, making his way to the distant exit sign:
Little Boy: :Stares at the saber disbelievingly in his hands: Wow... that guy was awesome! :Yells after Cloud: You're welcome! You can borrow it any time!
Cloud: :Smiles faintly, passing right by Dart: Sorry for the wait.
Dart: :After landing he watches the other blonde following him with plenty more speed and show, this time not surprised at the trick or two; however as the blonde turned away, borrowed the child's toy, and proceeded to disable and stall the guards, he stands back, his arms crossed, a comfortable lopsided grin on his face the entire time; as Cloud comes running to and past him, Dart turns and bolts after him: You know, you're quite the unusual fella. Half the time I think you're too stuffy, and the rest of the time I think I respect you quite a bit. :Grins at the blonde as he runs beside him: This time though, you can seriously lead the way.
Cloud: Glad to know he respects me half the time... :Seems rather annoyed but brushes it aside rather quickly whilst being more focused with the task at hand: It doesn't seem I have a choice in the matter... fine. :Kicks a cart of bouncing balls at a slow moving guard, who succeeded in tripping over them anyway, then sees a hot dog stand, a clothing store, and an electronics store: ...I don't think we are getting any closer to the exit of this never-ending abyss. :Glances at a little girl who's pointing and laughing at him: ...?
Little Girl: Look, Mommy! She looks like my doll, Stacie! :Begins giggling again:
Cloud: :Vein pop: Even in this world... :Hangs head low, addressing Dart: Just... pick a place.
Dart: :Blinks and looks at the blonde man curiously, having caught the comment by the little girl and his companion's reaction: Uh... this has happened to you before? :But gets distracted in looking for a place, making a mental note to ask about that later on; he spots a large store filled with many shelves and shiny boxes and grabs Cloud's arm, pulling him in there with him and slowing to a walk as they enter, he leads them further and further in, not noticing which sections they're entering: Think they saw us come in here? :Glancing over his shoulder:
Cloud: :Shakes his arm loose from Dart's grip: If you don't see them chasing after us anymore then the only logical answer would be "no."
Dart: Well good then! :Blinks and gets distracted: Hey, what are these? :Points to one of the large black, flat boxes: Why is it moving? What's in there?
Cloud: "Those," you uneducated baboon, are call "television sets." Or "T.V.'s" for short. It's a telecommunication device created for transmitting and receiving moving images. Its main purpose is used for entertainment. However, watch enough of it and you'll see it's meant for other uses as well. :Answers automatically, already used to his companion's limited amount of knowledge:
Dart: :Bluntly continues: Whooooaaa… Never seen anything like it in my life! What "other" things? :Grins like a kid as he leans in close to the nearest "T.V." screen and presses his face flat against it:
Cloud: Don't do that! :Takes his turn in grabbing Dart's arm, pulling him away from the television: Watching T.V. that close can strain your eyes. Do you want to go blind? Besides, if any of the employees catch you, they might throw us both out. :Shakes his head whilst groaning lightly: Worse than a kid. :Releases Dart: To answer your question. The other things are… :Stops short: …you don't need to know. Come on. We're leaving. :Goes to check if it is safe to exit the store:
Dart: Come on! I'm totally old enough! Calling me a kid! I can know! Hey, how old ARE you? :Catches up to him and hovers next to his side, not bothering to keep an eye out since he knows the other man's doing it:
Cloud: :Glances over his shoulder for a brief second: Older than you. Now stop distracting me. :Goes back to his previous task: There's one guard over at the vending machine… seventeen feet away… if we time this perfectly… :Trails off as he calculates something in his head:
Dart: Hmph! Always ignoring me! Well, then, come on! :Grabs Cloud by the shoulder of his sleeve and runs:
Cloud: …then we might ju—hey! :Nearly being dragged: Are you insane? They're going to—
Police Officer: There they are! Grab those miscreants!
Cloud: :Glares at the ignoramus with a deep burning hatred: Doing things without putting much thought into it is always a proud moment for you, isn't it?
Dart: Hey I've seen you run! They won't catch us! :Throws a grin over his shoulder at the blonde: Right, Blondie? :Pulling him, he continues to race through the people towards the way the other man had been scouting:
Cloud: :Allows himself to be dragged by the red one… though still not very happy with him: … :Eyes Dart curiously for a moment before responding: If you fall behind, I'll make sure to never keep you in my memories. :Finally dashes into a full-on run, still allowing for his unwanted companion to keep hold of him: Move it.
Dart: Now that's what I'm talking about! :Puts on speed too to try and keep up, letting go of the other so he can run faster: Hey! Look! :He points and grins, still running: There's the exit!
:Up ahead, the doors with their neon red EXIT signs above come into view. Unfortunately, so does a group of police officers, armored vehicles, and people in masks:
Dart: Whoa! :Skids to a stop and grabs the other man to slow him as what seem to be hundreds of armored soldiers gather in the area:
Commander: Halt! Go no further! Drop your weapons and lay flat on the ground with your hands behind your heads and we will not fire! I repeat, halt and lay flat on the ground and we will not fire!
Rain: Hey, Vix… where in the hell did all those armored people come from? I mean… I know the boys look suspicious… but isn't this a bit much?
Vix: I phoned the police and told them they were terrorists! 8DDDDDDDDDD
Rain: … :Whacks Vix over the head: WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU DO THAT!
Vix: I thought it would be hilarious! :Cracking up as she says it:
Rain: Well, bloody "Har Har!" Now the boys are in for a shitload of trouble… I just hope they don't blow anybody up… leave it to Dart… I'm sure he will. :Sighs:
Vix: Ahhh, they'll be fiiiine! See? Look at them!
Dart: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! :Grabbed Cloud by the arm and running the other way, dodging bazookas:
Vix: See? Perfectly fine! :Beams!:
Rain: …what are you talking about? HE'S RUNNING RIGHT INTO THE REINFORCEMENTS! DX
Vix: Ehhhh, they'll make it! X3
Cloud: Dart… :Puts his hand in front of Dart to prevent him from running: Dart… :Pauses for a moment, making sure he has the other's attention, then points nonchalantly to the backup officers: Not that way.
Dart: Oh. :Stares blankly at Cloud: …guess we'll have to do it then. :Smacks the blonde lightly on the arm: You go that way, I go this way. :He nods grimly, then leaps to the left, running to break up the reinforcements: Meet you on the other side! :He calls and grins, using the stalls in the middle of the walkway for cover as he moves past the troops:
Cloud: :Stares after his companion's fleeting form: Sure… now he's in a rush. Oh well… :Walks to the other side, unsheathing his sword:
Commander: Halt! Do not continue any further or we'll be forced to fire!
Cloud: He owes me for this. :Dashes right at them:
Lowly Subordinate 1: Uh… Boss? He's coming right at us.
Lowly Subordinate 2: W-What shall we do?
Commander: Ask him if he wants tea. WHAT DO YOU THINK, YOU IMBECILES! FIRE!
Cloud: :Dodges, swinging down his sword, blowing most of them (and the armored vehicles) away:
Commander: Damn it! Not again!
Lowly Subordinate 1&2: Looks like Team Torpedo is blasting of—
Commander: NO MORE ANIME FOR YOU!
Cloud: :Blinks: …I need out of this strange world. :Turns around: I wonder how Hopeless is holding up.
Dart: WAH-HOOOOO! :Somehow managed to get a hold of an armored ATV and is driving it erratically all over and between and through the different troops, straight towards Cloud. At the last possible second he swerves right towards the blonde and shouts: Come on, buddy! Get on! :He throws out an arm to grab him and keeps the vehicle moving while the bullets shoot all around them:
Cloud: :Narrows eyes as he looks towards the other man then, as he continues to stare, a small, barely visible smile forms: This… is what I'm to expect for the rest of this journey. Right, authors?
Rain: Hey! I told you to stop breaking the fourth wall!
Cloud: I make no promises.
Rain: … yeah, neither do I. :Snickers:
Cloud: :Raises his hand for the dirty-blonde to grab hold. Once inside the vehicle and making sure he's well in place to not fall out, he questions something everyone wants to know: How did you get your hands on one of these? Wait… let me guess… you talked a guard into committing suicide with your never-ending nonsense?
Dart: I lost them behind a few stands, climbed a pole, jumped on a group of three guys, in this weird thing, knocked two of them out of it, the other guy had his head stuck in that helmet, and the thing started moving. So I shoved him out, drove through a group of people that jumped out of the way, accidentally set off something that blew up behind me and then saw you! :Grins: Cool, huh?
Cloud: I prefer my version. Anyway… :Glances towards the exit: …we should try to get out of here. Drive this contraption over there. :Points: You see that sign? It says "Exit" in big red letters? Even if you can't read, you should at least know the color red. :Places his hand on Dart's shoulder: Be smart with me and I'm throwing you off.
Dart: Hey, I was the one who got this weird box thing for you! It's a good thing it's fast! And I can too read! :Looks at the blonde and accidentally makes the vehicle swerve: Whoa! Stop it! Strangest thing I've ever seen. This box is more sensitive than you!
Cloud: Fool! Don't look at me! Look where you're driving! You're going to get us killed that way! Where in the world did you get your li… cense… :Falls eerily quiet:
Dart: What's a license? :Looks at him again and catches himself right before the vehicle swerves once more: Stupid thing!
Cloud: Even though you basically told me with your response, I feel foolish enough to ask directly… :Inhales deeply: Dart, do you even know how to drive?
Dart: Drive? What's that?
Cloud: :Nods, slumping slowly to the floor of the ATV: And our fate has been sealed. Oh well… I lived a long and happy life. Hey, Dart, believe it or not, I'm sorta, kinda, not really, going to miss you. I would say "See you above" but we both know you're not going to end up there on account of your incredulous stupidity! :Suddenly stands and does everything within his power to not throw the poor fool off the vehicle: Get out of that seat right now if you know what's good for you. :Nearly hissing:
Dart: Come on! I'm doing a good enough job! And look! There's the exit! :Suddenly, they smash right through the glass doors into the outside: GREAT SOA! WHAT DID WE JUST HIT!
Cloud: That was GLASS you ignoramus! A see-through clear substance that—WHY AM I EVEN EXPLAINING IT! Get out of this seat! Right now! I'll drive!
Rain: Vix… me thinks this is going to end up badly. Look… they're headed for traffic…
Dart: I said I'm FIN—WHOA. There are MORE of these things?
Vix: …yeeep. Looks like they're gonna crash! 8D
Cloud: Of course there's more. We're in a city. A city. Do you know what that is? Or would you like me to give you a lesson on that as—LOOK OUT! :Grabs hold of the steering wheel and swerves them out of the way: Damn it… Dart… :Glaring evilly at the dirty-blonde; considering whether anyone will really notice if he commits murder:
Rain: Ya think? Dude, I'm ending this before it becomes too much of a disaster. Bunnies!
Magical Bunnies: :Poofs in from out of nowhere:
Rain: There're the boys. You know what to do.
Magical Bunnies: :Poofs in front of boys:
Cloud: Dart, you should let me—bunnies… not again. :Hangs head low:
Dart: Bunnies! Finally! Something I recognize!
Magical Bunnies: :Grabs hold of boys and poofs… again!:
Rain: Oi… my head.
Vix: I think it ended quite well actually! :Watches the car magically avoid all the traffic and crash into a random stop sign: …YEP! Good ending! 8D Let's go tell the bunnies where to drop 'em off next!
Rain: Snow! :Bouncy/happy/whee time!:
Vix: :Grins: …TOTALLY! LET'S DO IT!
Rain: Oh yeah! We're going to do it this time? I could have sworn we had something else in mind.
Vix: Ahhhh, who cares! We can save it for later! TO THE SNOW! :Dashes off to the next chapter!:
Rain: ... :Shrugs: I'm good with that. :Smirks: The cold can come in handy in many ways... :Skips off after them: