YarnKittymon: : ::late that night, Dolly suddenly wakes, feeling a definite urge--even a need--to go outside, to the forest at the west side of town. She knows clearly that if she doesn't sneak out, she'll be caught, and she knows she doesn't want to be caught, and can't stop to think about why::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she quietly slips from her bed and tiptoes down the stairs::
YarnKittymon: : ::when Dolly slips out the door, she sees that there's already several girls in the street, all younger than 18 or so; even Sara's there, all heading West::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::it doesn't seem to bother her, infact she's rather comforted that she isn't alone, and she moves on with the rest of them::
YarnKittymon: : ::more girls join them as they go, and soon it's an eerie exodus of probably all the girls in town old enough to walk::
YarnKittymon: : ::when they reach the forest, they find themselves in front of a middle-aged woman who looks rather haggard, and a tall, thin man with an eyepatch who doesn't look much better. The woman snaps out of what appeared to have been a trance, and glares at the man:: Did I tell you to get all of them?
YarnKittymon: : ::the girls start to come to themselves a bit more, though they're still in a daze, and very highly suggestable; no one yells or tries to flee::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she blinks but cant really seem to find anything to say so she just stares at the two strangers in front of her::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man opens his eyes wider, and whispers, loud enough for all the girls to hear:: All right...which one of you's an orphan with your brother taking care of you?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her hand starts to go up, but she pauses, trying to fight the urge to answer::
YarnKittymon: : ::when no one answers, the man repeats the question, louder, and no one can resist::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her hand raises higher::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man steps forward and grabs Dolly by the wrist; all the other girls instantly feel compelled to go back home and get back to bed::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes widen in alarm and she makes a small whimpering noise::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man growls:: Dry up. ::and forces her onto a horse; he and the woman lead it, walking quickly, farther West::
YarnKittymon: : ::they veer off the main path after about an hour, onto a path that's hardly discernable at all from the main road. They don't reach a small cabin until after the sun has been up for a couple hours. The man lifts Dolly off the horse and forces her inside the barely-furnished cabin, where he chains her to the corner with a leg-shackle. Once there, he hands her a pencil and paper, and growls:: Write something to your brother. Tell him you're here. ::he lets Dolly's mind completely free so she can perform her task::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::too scared to even question him, she starts writing to Isaac, her hand shaking so bad she can barely finish his name::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man looks over Dolly's shoulder as the woman comes in--the man curses:: Who's Isaac?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she scrunches up closer to the wall:: My brother...
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman glares at the man:: Montcy, you fool!
YarnKittymon: : ::the man sits down next to Dolly; quietly:: Then who the devil's the mayor's sister?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she shakes her head helplessly:: I don't know... are you going to let me go now?
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman hisses at the man:: I told you we should've tried the orphanage first!
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy glares back:: You've seen how he dresses; you thought he'd keep his sister *there*? ::curses, and turns to leave, growling:: I'll be back.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::looking rather panicked:: Wait! Aren't you going to let me go?
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman grimaces at Dolly:: Late for that now, isn't it? Thank Montcy over there.
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy rolls his eyes, and storms out of the cabin::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she looks up a the woman with wide, frightened eyes:: Then what are you going to do with me?
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman glares:: Tell you to be quiet, for one thing.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::quickly shuts up, instead focusses her energy on getting her powers to work on command for once::
YarnKittymon: : ::after a minute or so, Dolly gets the vague idea that maybe it's better this way--Isaac will appreciate her now that she's gone::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she finds it rather easy to listen to the vague idea, and she leans back against the wall. After a moment she sits up again, thinking about the mayors daughter. Feeling guilty about the fact that she might be able to help her, she tries again::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she appears in the main room of the orphanage, looking rather startled, and quite amazed that it worked::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::it's late at night so no one's really meant to be up but Jenn's lying on her back on the sofa, looking bored. Dolly's appearance startles her so much that she disappears and reappears by the door::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::jumps when she sees the girl disappear, turns around to look for her again, then yelps when she suddenly appears at the door. She stares at her, not sure what to do just yet::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::suddenly laughs:: Wow, i never realised how freaky it could be for people for me to just appear - guess i got my comeuppance. Are you new here? No one told me about you...they normally say
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she shakes her head:: No... I'm here looking for the mayor's sister. There's a man on the way here that's coming to take her. ::she looks down at her transparent self, and shifts uncomfortably.::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::looks confused for a moment:: The mayor's...you mean Ella?
Maeve Owens: DK: I don't know her name but you should tell someone... ::she looks down at the ground sadly:: And maybe tell them that they still have my body since they thought I was her...
YarnKittymon: : ::suddenly, pretty much all the girls in the orphanage wake up, and start to head outside, still in their nightclothes; Dolly's unaffected, however::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::flickers for a moment, her mind trying to escape the control, and then starts to move for the door::
YarnKittymon: : ::the control is just a tiny bit weaker this time, but that doesn't stop Ella from going along with the others, as she doesn't even know there's any reason she shouldn't::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes wdien and she grabs for Jenn's arm, remembering rather belatedly that she cant touch anything. Frustrated, she tries to block her path:: Wait! You cant leave! You have to stop Ella!
Quantum Catz: JN: ::flickers again, this time neearly completely disappearing but the man's powers still hold her and she keeps on going::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::gives up on her and moves to find another being in the house unaffected by the calling::
YarnKittymon: : ::one of the workers at the orphanage wakes, and suddenly shouts at the girls:: What are you planning? Girls!
YarnKittymon: : ::the girls don't pay their teacher any mind at all::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::approaches the woman shyly:: They're being called. Somone is looking for Ella
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman looks around, alarmed:: Ella! Ella, where are you?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::is already out the front door, heading west::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::sadly:: She's probably already out with the others heading west...
YarnKittymon: : ::just as the woman's going out to check, she drops to the ground, her eyes closed::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::when she sees Ella she nearly disappears again but still doesn't::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she gasps, looking rather alarmed.::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman starts to snore softly, so at least Dolly can hear she's alive::
YarnKittymon: : ::the other girls walk out west, too, almost all of them barefoot::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::gives up on her too and decides to head west with everyone else, see if she can yell loud enough to break the spell. When she sees Jenn again, she stops in front of the girl:: You have to stop Ella!
Quantum Catz: JN: ::suddenly vanishes; she reappears back in the living room, where she was standing before the man's powers took her over. Then she starts to run out of the building and after Ella, she can feel the man's powers pulling at her an d she's not sure how long she can stay free from them::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::has no idea where the girl went but she runs forward, shouting Ella's name and for everyone to stop moving::
YarnKittymon: : ::the crowd of girls suddenly stops walking, and every one of them feels a probing command in their mind that Jenn hears, too:: Ella, come forward!
YarnKittymon: EW: ::a girl wearing a long nightgown, every inch of her skin covered in green fur, obeys, making her way through the group and continuing on her way::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::sighing in frustration, she runs forward:: Stop! They only want to hurt you!
Quantum Catz: JN: ::catches up to Dolly and keeps running to try and get in front of Ella::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::looks rather tired, and keeps trying to walk, even when Jenn gets ahead of her::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::looks to Jenn:: Can you do that disappearing thing and take her with you?
Quantum Catz: JN: ::tries to push Ella back:: That's not how it works - my body just likes resetting itself sometimes. Ella? Ella, listen to me - we don't have anyone but ourselves and trust me, you don't want to do this
YarnKittymon: EW: ::is bigger than Jenn, and she pushes the girl aside, a bit roughly::
Maeve Owens: DK: Ever knocked anyone out before? This might be the time....
Quantum Catz: JN: ::mutters:: No, i haven't - and i'd like to see you try to knock her out. What about everyone else who isn't affected? Can't you get one of them?
Maeve Owens: DK: I tried. They put her to sleep. And I'd try knocking her out if I could but I can't touch anything. I can try going back for someone else but you're going to have to figure out *some* way to stop her...
Quantum Catz: JN: ::runs after Ella again to try and stop her moving forward:: Ella, use your powers - maybe that'll break you out like mine did
YarnKittymon: EW: ::pauses, looking at Jenn a bit confused, before she starts walking again::
Quantum Catz: JN: Ella! Remember what Mrs Hamilton said - you've got to focus, clear your mind! Stop listening to whoever's calling you ::tries to stop Ella moving again::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::pauses, and then suddenly reaches her hand out to strike Dolly:: *You*! It's *your* fault this happened! But we'll take it out of you yet.
Quantum Catz: JN: ::looks scared for a moment and disappears back to where she was a minute ago::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::even though the girl cant touch her, she instictively moves out of the way. She looks rather panicked:: I didn't do it!
Quantum Catz: JN: ::murmurs:: She isn't talking to you - it isn't even her talking. Ella? Can you hear me? ::moves forward again::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::growls at Dolly, then suddenly turns to face where Jenn was before she'd vanished:: *You're* the one who had this stupid idea! ::then the girl suddenly stops, gasping, and looking terrified; she whimpers when she sees Dolly:: Who are you?
Quantum Catz: JN: She's some girl they thought was you - you back now?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::too confused to say anything, she just stares at the two of them:::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::laughs weakly:: Who was stupid enough to mistake *her* for *me*?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she frowns, not exactly sure what she means by that::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::shrugs:: An orphan with a brother was all they were looking for, i guess
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head, puzzled:: What...what are we doing here? I...I guess he was calling me?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::sadly:: He might be close by.. you might want to go back to the orphanage...
Quantum Catz: JN: How will that help? He obviously knows to look for her there
Maeve Owens: DK: Because there are people there that can help? You certainly cant stay here...
YarnKittymon: EW: ::cringes; softly:: They weren't...looking for me to hurt my brother, were they?
Maeve Owens: DK: I dont know... they were having me write a letter to my brother when they realized I wasn't the right one...
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head, suddenly veering into the forest:: No way. They won't take me.
Quantum Catz: JN: Ella, wait up - where are you going? ::runs after her::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head:: I've been nothing but trouble to him since I was born, Jenn. Leave me go.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she follows slowly behind them, looking rather frightened since she has no idea what's going to happen to her but they apparently have bigger things to worry about::
Quantum Catz: JN: But you can't leave the orphanage
Maeve Owens: DK: ::quietly:: Aren't you afraid you might be walking right to him?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head, sounding scared:: Where can I go, then? How can I keep from being caught?
Maeve Owens: DK: Go to town! To the guards maybe? ::a little more desperate:: Someone needs to get me out of their cabin!
Quantum Catz: JN: I don't know - maybe someone can help us stop him - but...who else do you have if you don't have us back there?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head, looking at Jenn; softly:: Thanks for helping me...but I don't want you dragged in, any more than I want my brother to be a part of this.
Quantum Catz: JN: No, i'm not leaving you
YarnKittymon: EW: ::looks at Dolly, frowning:: And what about you? What cabin?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::looks surprised they even remembered she was there; tearfully:: I don't know... it's west of here.
YarnKittymon: EW: ::quietly:: I shouldn't go to town, but maybe you two could.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::sadly:: You shouldn't be left alone if he comes looking for you again.
YarnKittymon: : ::the two flesh-and-blood girls suddenly feel a pull again, though it's weakened greatly from the first time::
Quantum Catz: JN: What about Mrs Hamilton? Couldn't she do something? She could get you further away, anyway - and maybe even get her out of the cabin
Maeve Owens: DK: ::quietly:: I'm chained. She wont be able to move me.
YarnKittymon: EW: ::whimpers suddenly, wrapping her arms around herself and cringing her eyes shut:: Clarence...
Quantum Catz: JN: ::looks at Dolly:: How do you know what she could do? Do you know her?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she nods::
Quantum Catz: JN: Then maybe we should go to her - she could at least tell your family your okay
YarnKittymon: EW: ::doesn't move, still whimpering::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she nods:: I guess... if she took Toby along then he could get me free.
Quantum Catz: JN: ::looks at Ella:: Are you okay?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::doesn't reply, shuddering::
Maeve Owens: DK: We should all just head for town...
Quantum Catz: JN: ::nods and reaches for Ella's arm:: Come on, let's get going
YarnKittymon: EW: ::shakes her head, not moving; softly:: Can't.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::frightened:: Well you cant stay here where they might get you! And you *cant* fight them alone and we dont have time to argue!
Quantum Catz: JN: Why not, Ella? Mrs Hamilton can help us
YarnKittymon: EW: ::tears roll down her cheeks, darkening her fur; she just shakes her head::
Maeve Owens: DK: You dont have to tell anyone who you are if thats what you're worried about. ::is on the verge of tears about now::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::very suddenly starts chanting something Becky taught her::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::takes a deep breath and says:: We have to go before they find you, ella
YarnKittymon: EW: ::suddenly looks at Jenn, her voice shaking:: Too late for that. ::screws her eyes closed and tries weakly to walk towards Marquis::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she'd be happy that they were finally moving if her already ghostly image wasn't fading.::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::follows Ella:: What d'you mean?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::whimpers again; softly:: Something's in my head, Jenn.
Quantum Catz: JN: ::puts her hand on Ella's back and pushes her to keep going:: Come on then, we need to get away from here
YarnKittymon: EW: ::nods, and suddenly walks forward with more determination, heading for the main path towards Marquis as though she means to get there quickly::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::follows after her, looking back to check dolly's coming with them::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she's watching the ground in front of her, whimpering slightly when she sees herself fading even more::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::keeps walking, paying no attention at all to Dolly::
Quantum Catz: JN: Are you okay?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she bites her lip, nodding, even though its apparent the girl is rather terrified::
Quantum Catz: JN: Is something...happening to your body? We have to...we have to get Ella away before they try to get her bacl
Maeve Owens: DK: ::shakes her head; sadly:: I don't think so. My energy is fading... but I dont want to go back to that cabin...
Quantum Catz: JN: ::glances back to where Ella is, to make sure she's still heading for Marquis then turns to Dolly:: Mrs Hamilton taught us all a chant we could do to try and clear our heads and control our powers better ::recites a short, simple chant:: Just keep saying it over and over, it might help you
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she frowns, rather unsure of it at first, but then starts to repeat it quietly to herself::
Quantum Catz: JN: I'm sorry - i have to go with Ella - if you manage to stay then try to catch up with us ::runs after her friend::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::keeps walking quickly, and Jenn has to run pretty quick to catch her; Jenn just sees a man in a bathrobe up ahead of them on the path, walking towards them::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::sees the man and gets nervous:: Ella, stop
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she keeps chanting while she walks, but it doesnt seem to help since she's quickly running out of energy::
YarnKittymon: EW: ::stops for a moment, looking at the man as he draws closer--she suddenly runs forward, launching herself into his arms, throwing her arms around him::
Quantum Catz: JN: ::is just confused now::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she approaches them slowly::
YarnKittymon: MR: ::the man in the robe is the mayor, and he softly asks:: Are you all right, Ella?
YarnKittymon: EW: ::just whimpers, burying her face against her brother's shoulder::
Quantum Catz: JN: We need to get her away from here before they try to get her again
YarnKittymon: MR: ::nods, his eyes drifting to Dolly; softly:: What's happened to you?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::looks down; sadly:: I left my body to warn Ella...
YarnKittymon: MR: ::softly:: I appreciate that, Dolly, but why?
Quantum Catz: JN: WE don't have time for this - we need to get someone who can help stop this guy
YarnKittymon: EW: ::suddenly shrieks like she's been hit::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she flickers once, and she cries out in alarm, thinking she's about to return to the cabin::
Quantum Catz: JN: Ella? ::takes a step towards her, looking worried::
YarnKittymon: MR: ::looks at his sister, then Dolly, in alarm, and shakes his head; quietly:: Let's get them back to town. If I'm right, Ella at least will be as good off there as anyone else.
YarnKittymon: EW: ::doesn't have any visible wounds, though bruises wouldn't show under her fur anyway::
Quantum Catz: JN: That's where we were going - we were going to go to Mrs Hamilton
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes fill with tears but she says nothing more even as she continues to flicker every now and then::
YarnKittymon: MR: ::softly, helping his sister along:: That may help Dolly, but I'm afraid it won't help Ella.
Quantum Catz: JN: Why? What's wrong with her? Can't we just stop the guy and then it's over?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::quietly:: He's holding her mind ransom.
Quantum Catz: JN: How? Do you know who he is?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::walks on quietly behind them::
YarnKittymon: MR: ::shakes his head:: I received a threatening note a few days ago, but I thought nothing of it...and then when I woke today there was a note on my door, saying they'd destroy Ella if I didn't pay them. This must be what was
YarnKittymon: meant.
Quantum Catz: JN: ::looks at Ella:: D'you think she'll be okay?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::suddenly sounding very tired:: Of course she will. You can go on back home, ah...
Quantum Catz: JN: No, i already told her i'm not leaving her
Maeve Owens: DK: ::quite suddenly:: Maybe Jack can protect her...
YarnKittymon: MR: ::looks back at Dolly, surprised; softly:: How?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::looks away guilty, thinking that maybe she shouldn't have said anything; softly::: He has a shield... it stops objects but it might be a long shot since this is more...mental... sorry...
YarnKittymon: MR: ::doesn't reply; as they approach town he quietly says:: If you want me to bring your brother here, Dolly, so you don't have to spend the energy.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she shakes her head; sadly:: He probably doesn't even know I'm gone. We can just go get Toby and Becky I guess...
YarnKittymon: MR: ::looks at Jenn; quietly, reaching into the pocket of his robe and handing her a key:: Can you try to get Ella back home and in bed?
Quantum Catz: JN: I...where do you live?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::describes the small house in the center of town:: It's painted green; you can't miss it. ::turns to Dolly:: You want me to go to Toby and Becky, then?
Quantum Catz: JN: ::leads Ella away to the mayor's house, still looking worried::
YarnKittymon: : ::the girl is hard to lead; she keeps trying to stand still, and can't even think of trying to break the man's hold on her again; still, she makes it in the end::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::as she nods, her body flickers again. She's getting harder to see by the second and it worries her that at any moment she'll be returning to the cabin::
Maeve Owens: ((of course you know if we wanted them to actually discover dolly missing and isaac come running out... we could do that too :D ))
Quantum Catz: ((but he's asleep :P))
YarnKittymon: MR: ::softly, to Dolly:: Don't worry; we'll get this sorted. ::walks to Toby and Becky's house quickly, knocking on the door::
Maeve Owens: ((i thought it was morning? wasnt the sun rising?))
Quantum Catz: ((who's gonna answer?))
Quantum Catz: ((was it?))
YarnKittymon: ((Actually, yeah, it had been, but I forgot that myself :P ))
YarnKittymon: ((Still probably early morning, though, before 9 :P Maybe the town's hung over and sleeping in :P ))
Maeve Owens: ((riiiiight.... sure... let them never discover she's gone :D ))
YarnKittymon: ((People can be up; I'm just saying if many people. were about, they should've been reacting to the mayor :P ))
YarnKittymon: ((and his green-furred sister :P ))
Maeve Owens: ((ok. :D ))
Quantum Catz: ((plus isaac's useless unless someone's hurt :P))
YarnKittymon: ((Except for angsting ;) ))
YarnKittymon: TY: ::answers the door, still in his pajamas, and looking rumpled, with the attitude a bit like one who's lost a coin flip; sleepily:: What?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::quietly:: Dolly Kindall here thinks you might be able to help her.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her voice shakes along with her image:: They took me and now I'm sitting chained to a wall in a cabin somewhere...
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at Dolly for a few moments, and finally goes to the bedroom to wake Becky::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::flickers once more and is gone::
YarnKittymon: MR: ::stares at where Dolly was, looking worried and impatient::

YarnKittymon: : ::when Dolly wakes up back in the cabin, her mouth hurts, and her shoulder is bruised; the woman holding her there looks furious:: Took you long enough!
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she whimpers, then tries to move away from her.:: Let me go.
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman shakes her head:: We can get something for you, yet, even if that fool Montcy can't catch the right girl.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes dart around the room, trying to see if there's a key in sight.::
YarnKittymon: : ::the room is fairly large, with a bed made neatly in one corner, a bedroll next to it, and a coal stove at the end farthest from her, along with some trunks--there's no key, though::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she slumps back against the wall, bringing one hand to gently feel the bruise around her mouth::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman nudges the pencil and paper back to Dolly:: Write to your brother, girl.
Maeve Owens: DK; ::she takes a deep breath to calm her nerves, knowing that Becky and Toby should be here at any moment. She picks up the pencil and does as she's told.::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she looks up at the woman:: What do you want me to say?
YarnKittymon: : ::coldly:: Tell him you're here and you're scared.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she frowns at the woman before she ducks her head to write. She's thankful Isaac will likely never see this:: Dear Isaac, Some people have me locked away in a cabin. Don't worry, I'm okay. I think they want some money for me.
Maeve Owens: DK: Love, Dolly.
YarnKittymon: : ::when she's finished, the woman takes it from Dolly's hands, writing on the bottom, "500 gold or we kill her. Leave it with Ella's money." Then she waits::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she'd cry if she didn't know Toby and Becky were on their way. as it is, she sits and waits too::
YarnKittymon: : ::it's over an hour later when Montcy comes back; he and the woman stare daggers at each other::
YarnKittymon: :: ::the woman finally asks:: Well?

Maeve Owens: DK: ::she uses her hands to guide her way up the wall and into a standing position, afraid the man knows she did something::
YarnKittymon: ::Montcy glares at the woman, then suddenly reaches out, striking Dolly:: *You*! It's *your* fault this happened! But we'll take it out of you yet.
SP00KY One: DK: ::she cries out, backing away from him::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman shakes her hand:: She might be worth something yet, Montcy!
YarnKittymon: : ::the man growls at Dolly, and then suddenly turns to face the woman:: *You're* the one who had this stupid idea! It's at *least* the whipping post for us if we're caught, if not...::raises a fist over his own head and jerks upwards, making a choking noise::
SP00KY One: DK: ::whimpers:: Let us go now and you can walk away from this!
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman shakes her head:: I think this stupid girl's the sister of someone pretty well-liked in town. The mayor will pay for her safe release. And you! Where's his sister? Did you fail with that too?
YarnKittymon: : ::the man sits down on the bed, glaring:: I've got her mind. Might be enough, but it's not much fun, let me tell you.
SP00KY One: DK: ::insistantly:: Then let us go!
YarnKittymon: : ::the man shakes his head:: Dry up, little girl. It's not your place to tell others how to make their living.
SP00KY One: DK: ::she shifts her feet, unsure of what to do.::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy growls:: Just get rid of her, Hart. I'm tired of this; one girl is enough.
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman frowns, and then after a moment, she suddenly steps back further from Dolly and kicks a knife towards her, at that moment giving the girl the impulse to do the very first thing that comes to mind::
SP00KY One: DK: ::looking genuinly scared for her life, she quickly grabs the knife and jams it into the key hole, trying to pop the lock::

YarnKittymon: : ::the woman frowns, but doesn't say anything about that::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy sarcastically says:: Nice work, Hart.
YarnKittymon: : ::Dolly has no luck with the lock, at least, not at first::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she has nothing better to do, so she keeps trying. Of course it hasn't really entered her mind yet that even if she gets out she still has to get past two people::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy finally lays down in bed; quietly:: You watch her, Hart. I don't have the energy now.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::sighing heavily, she gives up on the lock, however, she keeps the knife close to her just in case.::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy sits up tiredly, looking about ready to hit someone:: Give the knife back, little girl.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::shakes her head;meekly :: Give me the keys...
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy growls, and suddenly walks forward, striking Dolly in the face, harder than Mrs. Hart had::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::it knocks her to the floor, and she ends up slicing herself in the process. She cries out, but fear makes her keep a hold of the knife as she scrambles to get away from him::
YarnKittymon: : ::finally, Dolly sees Isaac coming for her, and then Montcy stabs him through::
Maeve Owens: DK: No! ::she screams out rather loudly, turning to face him, wanting to hurt him for even thinking about it::
YarnKittymon: : ::when Dolly comes to herself, she's grappling with Montcy for the knife; he has his hand around hers::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she whimpers in surprise then quickly tries to kick him:: Let go...
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy doesn't let go, though she makes contact with his ribs; he's trying to twist her arm to make her release the knife::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she tries but she isn't strong enough to resist, and she ends up dropping the knife::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy elbows her hard in the ribs:: Don't try that again, girl.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she doubles over, gasping for breath::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy goes back to the bed, laying down heavily on it::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she eases herself to the floor, curling up against the wall again, trying to make herself a small enough target::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman looks up at Montcy; softly:: It was still your fault.
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy curses and tells her to shut her mouth, and the woman does::

Quantum Catz: BM: ::yawns and rubs her eyes when she hears Toby come back:: Who was it?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly:: The mayor and Dolly...Dolly's kidnapped I guess...
Quantum Catz: BM: ::sits up, frowning:: Why would someone kidnap her?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly:: I don't know. I guess she's chained?
Quantum Catz: BM: ::quickly gets out of bed:: I guess we'd better get dressed then - does Isaac know yet?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quickly gets into his clothes, shaking his head:: I don't think so.
Quantum Catz: BM: ::sighs:: He going to love us if i have to take Dolly to him to be healed
YarnKittymon: TY: ::frowns:: Well, it's not *our* fault. ::slips his shoes on:: If she's chained, how can we get her out? I guess there'll be a fight.
Quantum Catz: BM: If you can unchain her, i could get her away...but i couldn't take you both
YarnKittymon: TY: ::flashes a grin:: A challenge, huh?
Quantum Catz: BM: ::makes a face at him:: Funny ::moves over to him and taps his nose with her finger:: Just be careful - i don't want to have to be taking you to Isaac too
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head, still smiling at her:: Don't worry; I'll be fine. ::heads to the door::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::goes back to the front door, looking worried:: Where's Dolly?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::quietly:: She vanished.
Quantum Catz: BM: Did she tell you who actually has her?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::shakes his head:: I haven't a clue. ::frowns:: Who shall I find to help the two of you out?
Quantum Catz: BM: Well unless you happen to know where they are, no one else is going to be able to get there
YarnKittymon: MR: ::shakes his head; softly:: They said to leave the money out by that fallen tree a quarter-mile outside town on the way to Gate Town, but I don't expect that's where they are.
Quantum Catz: BM: ::frowns:: Is there someone else there? I'm assuming it isn't Dolly they're asking *you* for money for...
YarnKittymon: MR: ::shakes his head; quietly:: They seem to have taken my sister's mind a hostage as well.
Quantum Catz: BM: ::repeats:: Her mind?
YarnKittymon: MR: ::quietly:: I could be wrong, but she seems to be trapped in a nightmare or something. I haven't had the time to try to speak with her as I should have.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::grimaces:: Don't suppose there's any easy way to get her out of *that* mess.
Quantum Catz: BM: ::sighs:: Poor Ella ::glances at Toby:: Maybe this isn't the best way to do this - if they can do that to her, they might be able to do it to one of us
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods; quietly:: I think you and Dolly could make it out all right, and maybe I could take care of them before they touched me.
Quantum Catz: BM: But if you couldn't, all that'd happen is they'd have you instead
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shrugs:: I guess Jack might be able to make it in all right, but then they'd just put a knife to Dolly's throat and we'd be stuck again.
YarnKittymon: MR: ::nods, frowning:: I guess I could at least go ask him if he has any ideas; he'd have a better shot at getting it done than the town's guards. ::looks back at Toby and Becky; quietly:: Isaac should be informed, too.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::frowns; shaking his head; softly:: You want to draw straws over who gets to do *that*?
Quantum Catz: BM: ::sighs:: He doesn't get the easiest life at times
YarnKittymon: MR: ::shakes his head:: He'll find out soon enough, but I'll go tell him now. He should hear it straight, after all. ::walks off without another word::
Quantum Catz: BM: We should probably let Maeve know as well - at least then she can be there for Isaac
YarnKittymon: TY: ::cringes:: Yeah. I'll check the shop; you check her house.
Quantum Catz: BM: ::nods:: Okay
YarnKittymon: TY: ::goes over to Libby's shop, walking right in, and looking rather worried::
Quantum Catz: KZ: ::has only just got there herself and is rather surprised to hear anyone come in so early since she thought she'd left the door locked:: Oh, Toby!
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smiles sheepishly:: Opened the door for you; sorry. Have you seen Maeve anywhere?
Quantum Catz: KZ: She's hiding in the back ::smiles weakly:: I tend to leave her be while it's still this early
YarnKittymon: TY: ::laughs slightly before he quickly sobers; heads towards the back room, knocking on the door; quietly:: Maeve?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::he hears a startled yelp and the sound of some falling boxes before the door is quickly yanked open. Wide eyed, and a bit confused:: Toby? uh.. what are you doing here?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks rather serious:: We thought you should know...the mayor's telling Isaac right now. Dolly's been kidnapped.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::sharply:: What? ::tries to open the door to come out of the room but one of the boxes, which is stuck to her foot, is in the way, and she fights with that and the door in order to get out:: Who? Why?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head:: Ransom money; I don't know. We figured you could help Isaac through, anyway.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::frowns:: Well, whose getting her back? ::she pauses; disbelief eveident in her voice:: Ransom money?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shrugs:: They sort of have the mayor's sister too.
Quantum Catz: KZ: ::softly, as if not really talking to them:: A whole group of girls were brought...but they only wanted one...
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks back at Kizzie; quietly:: What?
Quantum Catz: KZ: ::blinks and then turns to look at Toby, looking uncertain:: There was a voice - calling to them all, and then just asking for one
Maeve Owens: MV: ::looks even more confused, and rather unable to form a single thought this early in the morning::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at Kizzie sharply; slowly:: Maybe you could help us.
Quantum Catz: KZ: I don't see how - this must've happened while i was still asleep - the voice is gone now
YarnKittymon: TY: Do you have any idea where she was taken?
Quantum Catz: KZ: No, but they might - if i went and asked them
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: You should, if it's not too much trouble. ::looks back at Maeve:: And you should probably help Isaac a little.
Quantum Catz: KZ: We can't close the shop though - so few people-- ::stops, looking down::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::quietly:: This is more important. ::she nods to Toby, even though she feels like she should be doing more::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::frowns:: Where's Libby? She could probably watch it for a bit; her name's over the door, after all.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she goes to grab the keys:: She's probably at home sleeping. If anyone wants to go get her... but until then I'll lock up.
Quantum Catz: KZ: ::softly:: People don't like her serving them though...
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at Kizzie, completely taken aback:: What?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::sadly:: I know, but it's still her place and if she wants it to stay open then she'll need to come in. Or you can come back once... you've done all you can do. ::she smiles sadly at Toby and shakes her head::
Quantum Catz: KZ: ::shrugs at Toby:: People can be scared of lots of things they shouldn't be ::reaches for her coat and heads towards the front door::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she hangs back, looking worried:: I want to be there for Isaac... but I'm kind of afraid that maybe I'll just be in the way. With Eli and Josh of course... ::gives him a helpless look::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head, looking even more upset, but then he slightly smiles at Maeve:: Josh'll be glad to have you there. And maybe you can keep Eli from just running off after her.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::smirks:: Yeah right, not likely. He listens to me about as much as my last pet did.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smirks:: I'll tell him you called him your pet.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::deadpans:: I did not and that's not funny.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::heads off to Isaac's house::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::locks the door behind them before she follows them off to Isaac's::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::knocks on the door to Isaac's house::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::feeling a bit awkward, she stops right next Toby::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::opens the door looking pale and stressed out - when he sees Maeve, he pulls her into a tight hug::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she knows there's nothing she can say to make things better, so she just returns the hug, trying to comfort him more that way::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: We're gonna bring her back, Isaac.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::still holding Maeve:: I've already had to stop Eli from running off after her - but part of me just wants to do the exact same thing
YarnKittymon: JH: ::comes to the door, looking rather scared; quietly, to Toby:: How much is the ransom?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head:: We're not paying any ransom, Josh.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she lays her head on his shoulder while one hand is running up and down his back in a soothing manner that she probably doesn't even realize she's doing; quietly:: Do you guys have a plan then?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head:: I'm sure I could get Dolly back without any trouble, but they have the mayor's sister too, and Becky and I can't rescue the both of them.
Quantum Catz: IS: The mayor said they were using some sort of mind control on his sister though, anyone who goes near them might just end up like her - it's the only thing that managed to stop Eli from just leaving though he's still insisting that if he's an animal it might be okay
Maeve Owens: MV: ::quietly:: If you needed to get them out of the cabin in order to get to Dolly he might be a good distraction though... ::she winces, not sure if its a really good idea though::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::looks up at Isaac and Maeve:: Why don't we just pay the ransom?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she looks away from Josh's gaze, and up at Isaac, not wanting to say what she's thinking::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::doesn't really want to have to voice his thoughts to Josh either, so instead he kneels down next to the boy and says:: We'll get her back - we just need to be...prepared...to get to her if we need to...
YarnKittymon: JH: ::quietly:: I'll bet if we asked everyone around town they'd help us pay for it, though.
Quantum Catz: EK: ::from the living room:: They won't let her go after they get the money - that's what they're all thinking, Josh - she's stuck unless we get to her
Quantum Catz: IS: ::winces::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::looks back at Eli, horrified, and shakes his head::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::quietly:: It'll be okay Josh. We'll get her back.
Quantum Catz: EK: We should be doing that right now - there must be someone in this town who can get round some stupid mind control
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at them; softly:: I guess the mayor's trying to get a party together now. I'm gonna go see if I can help.
Quantum Catz: EK: I want to come too then
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smiles weakly:: Have you ever been to a town meeting, Eli? All they do is talk, sometimes for hours.
Quantum Catz: EK: Then what use are any of them to us? What if we don't have hours?
YarnKittymon: JH: ::suddenly hugs Isaac, shuddering::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::hugs Josh back, shooting Eli a look to tell him to stop saying things like that in front of his little brother::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head:: We're going to get her back. ::looks at everyone:: See you later. ::and heads off towards the mayor's office::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks at Maeve:: Are you staying are or you going to go with Toby? ::doesn't look like he really wants her to go::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::smiles weakly:: I'll stay, ::she pauses; hesitantly:: if I'm not in the way. ::she looks briefly at Eli, then Josh::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::takes Maeve's hand silently::
Quantum Catz: EK: ::shrugs and turns away:: Someone had better turn up with a plan soon or i'm out of here anyway
Maeve Owens: MV: ::softly:: Toby and Becky are pretty smart, they'll figure it out.

YarnKittymon: TY: ::goes to Isaac's house after their half-hour meeting; knocks on the door, asking for Maeve::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::hears her name and comes over to the door:: What's going on?
YarnKittymon: TY: We're gonna try to get whoever's coming for the money. ::motions to a sack he's holding, smirking:: Or chocolate, if you will. Can you help?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she quickly nods:: Sure. What do you want me to do? ::refrains from insisting that this is a big waste of perfectly good chocolate::
YarnKittymon: TY: Just stick close to Jack and help us catch whoever comes for it.
Quantum Catz: EK: ::standing nearby:: Will Jack's shield thing stop the mind control?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods:: I think so.
Quantum Catz: EK: ::opens his mouth to say something and then stops, frowning, and says instead:: You'd better not mess it up
Maeve Owens: MV: ::smiles weakly:: Thanks for the vote of confidence.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smiles at Maeve and Eli both:: Come on; we don't have any time to lose.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::softly:: Be careful - i don't want to lose you anymore than i want to lose Dolly
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she smiles sadly at him, then gives him a quick hug:: We'll be both be back before you know it.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::smiles weakly, feeling tired:: Good luck
YarnKittymon: TY: ::turns and walks quickly towards the place where the gold was supposed to be left, a fallen tree a quarter mile away, on the way to Gate Town::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::reluctantly leaves Isaac to run after Toby::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::had already gone on ahead, to check out the area around where the money's to be left; looks up when he sees Toby and Maeve coming along:: All ready?
Maeve Owens: MV; ::nods:: How long do we have?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::throws the sack into its place:: Probably an hour. You find a hiding spot, Jack?
Quantum Catz: JK: Yeah, there's a coupla places good enough to keep us hidden till he reaches he money
Maeve Owens: MV: Do we have a plan once that happens?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: Subdue him as best we can. They're already bringing in that girl who can take away powers, and the guards think they can hold him 'til then.
Quantum Catz: JK: Whatever happens, you two have to stick near me - if this guy's the one with the mind powers then we don't need you two turning on each other - 's more likely that guy stayed with Dolly, though
Maeve Owens: MV: Do we know who the other one is?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::frowns:: Kizzie said it was a woman, kind of older. Didn't see too much of her.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::shakes his head:: Apparently all the girls in town went out there last night and the rest of us were none the wiser
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods:: None of 'em remembered today, either. ::quietly:: We should probably hide, in case he's early.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::winces:: Okay, I can do this... waiting an hour in a bush... ::she smirks:: I hope he's early.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::nods and leads them to the best hiding place he found::
YarnKittymon: : ::it's about an hour later when a woman Maeve recognizes as Mrs. Hart comes up to the sack of "coins" and takes it, looking around her suspiciously as she does so::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::a hand goes to her mouth to stiffle her gasp, and she quickly launches a fireball at the bag she's carrying::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman cries out, dropping the bag as its dense contents start to melt::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::has a couple daggers made already, ready to throw them, but not showing himself::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::since Jack isn't moving, she leaves the bushes, aiming to catch her off guard and tackle her to the ground, making sure that's the only impulse she has to do at the time::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::curses Maeve for moving away from him and then signals to Toby to move forward with him::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman sees Maeve moving, and yells again, stepping backwards, and trying to make Maeve act on her impulses, preferably some kind of guilt::
YarnKittymon: : ::Toby hurries alongside Jack::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::tries to ignore it, reaching out to burn her:: Cut it out!
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman screams, focusing on Jack and Toby as well now::
Maeve Owens: MV: She isn't the one with mind control. Just try not to get any impulses to do anything. ::she glares at the woman::
Quantum Catz: JK: Look, lady, your tricks aren't going to work - so you can either give up now or we'll have to do this the hard way
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman smirks at Jack:: Hadn't you better be hurrying to Dolly? My partner can read minds, and he knows we've been crossed.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::looks at her coldly:: Anything happens to that girl and you're both gonna wish you'd never set eyes on her by the time i get through with you
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman edges away, shaking her head, and focusing hard on Jack, telling him to hurry to Dolly; he probably gets just the slightest inclination that maybe he needs to go after the girl after all::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she looks to Toby:: You want to tie her up? We need to do something to her?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly, though he's near Jack:: We need to make sure Dolly's all right, don't we? ::even so, his hands start forming ropes::
Maeve Owens: MV: I doubt it. He's probably too busy with Ella.
Quantum Catz: JK: We don't go to Dolly till this one's sorted - loose ends can mess things up
YarnKittymon: TY: ::stays by Jack, handing him the new ropes:: Then you tie her...I don't want to.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::glares at Hart:: How'd you get out of prison? I figured they would have locked you up good enough.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::moves forward to tie the woman up::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman shakes her head, scowling as she's tied, but she doesn't say anything::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly:: Let's hurry, Jack.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::rolls her eyes:: Well, maybe they'll do a better job this time.
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman scowls at Maeve, still not speaking::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::once he's tied the woman up he turns to Maeve:: There's no point in you coming to the cabin with us - anyone with me needs to be free from being controlled and that's easier if i just have one person to deal with
Maeve Owens: MV: :::she frowns, looking like she might protest:: I guess less is better,... ::eyes Mrs Hart.:: Guess I could take care of her...
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman smirks:: Sure.
Quantum Catz: JK: We could knock her out - might not be healthy for her skull but i'm not particularly bothered about that right now
Maeve Owens: MV: Guy killed her the last time so that might be a step up. ::smirks::
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart shakes her head::
YarnKittymon: TY: Anyone know a sleeper hold?
Maeve Owens: MV: I'll take her back to town and if she tries anyting, I'll knock her out. ::grins::
YarnKittymon: TY: Good enough...be careful, Maeve.
Maeve Owens: MV: Sure enough.
Quantum Catz: JK: See you later
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart walks along with Maeve silently for a minute or so before quietly saying:: They shouldn't have left you behind, you know.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::pushes Hart along:: It's not going to work. I'm not listening to you.
YarnKittymon: : They're likely to get hurt without you, though. ::focuses on using her powers on Maeve::
Maeve Owens: MV: And they might get hurt worse with me there. Shut up before I knock you out.
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart laughs:: That's right...you're useless, aren't you?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::smirks:: Pretty much.
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman laughs:: The world would be a better place without you.
Maeve Owens: MV: It'd be a better place without you too. ::makes a small flame appear and she holds it over the woman's skin:: Now shut up or I'll scar you for life.
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman yells, trying to pull back:: What's wrong with you?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::shouts back:: What's wrong with *me*? What's wrong with *you*? You've kidnapped two little girls and if Dolly has been harmed in anyway.... trust me, you'll wish I had just burned you alive compared to what the others will do.
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart raises her head primly:: *I* never touched her.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::her eyes widen:: What did *he* do to her then? ::she pulls on the ropes roughly to stop the woman'coldly:: And you're just as much to blame since you didn't stop him.
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart smirks:: I'm just a woman; you know as well as I that I can't *stop* anyone from doing anything.
Maeve Owens: MV: ::coldly:: I bet you could if you thought it'd benefit you. ::she pushes her forward again::
YarnKittymon: : ::Mrs. Hart grimaces as they near town, trying to find someone who doesn't care for Maeve::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman's eyes light on a giant cat, and she gives it a try::
YarnKittymon: DN: ::his eyes light up:: Maeve! ::and he pounces her, his claws retracted::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::yelps in surprise as she's taken to the ground:: Daniel! Not now! ::tries to peer around the massive furball on top of her to see what Hart is doing::
YarnKittymon: : ::the woman gets to her feet, running off as quickly as she can; a kind-looking person starts to untie her::
YarnKittymon: DN: ::rolls off of Maeve, looking puzzled::
Maeve Owens: MV: No! ::she scrambles to her feet, trying to put herself between the two:: She's one of the kidnappers!
YarnKittymon: : ::the man looks back at Maeve, every bit as puzzled as Daniel:: This sweet old lady?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::grimly:: There's nothing sweet about her. ::tries to take the ropes back and re-secure her hands together.::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man suddenly shoves Maeve:: You leave her alone!
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she stumbles forward a few paces before she hits the ground on one knee. She quickly pushes herself back up, then thinking quickly, comes back to swing at Hart, hoping to knock her out::
YarnKittymon: : ::it's a clean hit to Mrs. Hart's jaw, and the woman drops to the ground like a sack of bricks::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she shakes her fingers out, wincing slightly, as she wearily gazes at the stranger, hoping he really was under her influences::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man looks at Maeve, rather confused:: What just happened?
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she shakes her head, then reaches down for Hart's arm:: She had you hooked thats what. ::she glances up at him:: But since you're hear, you can help me get her back to town. ::grins::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man nods:: What did she do?
YarnKittymon: DN: ::meows, looking at Maeve:: You won't tell Becky I skipped school?
Maeve Owens: MV: She's one of the ones responsible for the kidnappings. ::she pauses to glance back at Daniel, not sure how to answer that and looking rather torn:: Well, maybe if you go back to school... I'll conveniently forget I saw you?
YarnKittymon: DN: ::hisses a bit; quietly:: All right. ::slinks away::
Maeve Owens: MV: ::winces, thinking either Becky is gonna be mad or Daniel will find another time to pounce on her; guiltily:: Bye Daniel

YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly, as they approach the house:: He has two hostages, doesn't he? How do we get him to let them go?
Quantum Catz: JK: I know another guy with mind powers...he can't hold them all the time - everyone's gotta get tired
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: We should've just had your friend come, then. I guess we have to knock him out or something?
Quantum Catz: JK: He's in Gate Town, which ain't much good right now - and yeah, that's what i was figuring
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly:: If I made you a baseball and a hole in the wall, think you could get him?
Quantum Catz: JK: Couldn't be sure...and then we'd lose our advantage if he wasn't knocked out
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: Well, how do we keep our advantage, then?
Quantum Catz: JK: I think we need to draw him out, at least then he's not near Dolly
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods:: You can do that and I can probably sneak in and get her away.
Quantum Catz: JK: It's probably better if we stay together - i don't need him controlling your head if he realises you're there
YarnKittymon: TY: ::frowns:: But how do we get him out of the house, then? I guess I could set up some kind of...rock or something to fall when I pulled a string, maybe make him come out...but that's a longshot.
Quantum Catz: JK: Hey, rescuin' hostages ain't exactly something i've done a lot of, or havin' t'stick around t'shield people
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smirks:: You did a decent job of getting Libby and Maeve out of a spot back when you first came here.
Quantum Catz: JK: Well that was just against a normal person - all you gotta worry about wi'them is checkin' for weapons - ain't so easy with people on this island
YarnKittymon: TY: ::quietly:: How about we leave some "gold" on his doorstep, knock, and run like mad, try to sneak in through the back?
Quantum Catz: JK: ::chuckles a bit:: Shame Becky couldn't just teleport us both into the place - what d'you reckon on just facing him down and tryin' to get in between him and Dolly once he's out here
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods:: Worth a shot. If we grab him I guess you can knock him out pretty quick. ::quietly:: It looks like that's the place, up ahead.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::looks ahead:: Guess so ::smirks slightly, a part of him not really believing the things he's gotten involved in since moving to the island:: Time to play the heros...
YarnKittymon: TY: ::stoops to pick up a rather big rock, forming it into a baseball bat as he walks; pauses outside the house, hoping no one saw them through the windows::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::follows him, he has a knife with him but he doesn't want to pull it out unless he has to::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods, forming a rotten tree branch into a round bit of metal shaped like a plate--he strikes it with the bat, and the noise resounds like a gong, echoing through the forest::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy was just starting to drift into sleep, but the noise startles him fully awake; he glares at Dolly; sharply:: What was that?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes wide, she shakes her head:: I don't know...
YarnKittymon: : ::the man gets up and peers out the windows, but can't see anything out of the ordinary; he looks back at Dolly again:: Is someone coming after you?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she swallows hard then shakes her head:: They probably don't even know I'm gone. ::she glances over to where she had last seen Mrs. Hart place the letter for her brother::
YarnKittymon: : ::the letter's missing::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy glares, opening the door just a crack, turning his back to Dolly and willing anyone who's out in the forest to come near::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::almost starts to move, but stops himself, edging closer to Jack; softly:: He's calling us.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::quietly:: We need him to come out more...
YarnKittymon: TY: ::rings the gong again::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy just keeps trying; after a long while he shouts:: Who's out there?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at Jack questioningly::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::softly:: Maybe if we look like we're following his powers he'll come out more
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods; softly:: If I start to go ahead of you, stop me, though. ::edges forward just a bit::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::moves forward with him::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man opens the door a little wider, peeking out; when they come into view, he shouts:: Good. Stop there. Now what brings you out here?
YarnKittymon: TY: ::completely deadpanned; motions to the gong:: Chasing dragons, sir.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::adds:: We here there might be one about here somewhere
YarnKittymon: : ::the man just shakes his head:: A *dragon*?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her eyes widen even more when she hears the familiar voices, and she very carefully gets to her feet::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods:: A Chinese dragon, sir. ::motions to the gong::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy glares:: Well, get out of here; this is my property.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::softly:: We're going, sir, but...::stops, his eyes seeming to be riveted on the doorway behind the man::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy glares at them:: I said *get*!
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she stares fearfully out the open doorway, too scared to intervene less she ruin their plans.::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods, edging away a bit, raising his baseball bat:: Yes, sir, but one just crawled into your house...
YarnKittymon: : ::the man frowns, looking into his house, turning his back to them; at the same moment, Toby tosses Jack a baseball::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::throws the ball at the man's head, aiming to knock him out, or at least disorient him::
YarnKittymon: : ::the baseball hits the man in the shoulder, and he looks back at Toby and Jack, glaring::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::sheepishly:: Thought we could hit it from here...come on back, let us deal with it, huh?
YarnKittymon: : ::the man rolls his eyes, turning to go back inside::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her gaze grows more fearful when she sees him coming back in and she struggles to think of something. She glances around her again, looking for anyhing she could use against him::
YarnKittymon: : ::there's nothing within reach of Dolly::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::cringes, forming a throwing knife; bites his lip and just throws it, aiming for the man's leg::
YarnKittymon: : ::the knife goes fairly far into the man's calf, drawing his attention back to them:: What's *wrong* with you two? ::he growls, concentrating harder on making the two men come closer, and pulling the knife out of his leg, ready to use it on one of them if they come near::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::finds himself moving forward::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::suddenly screams::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::follows Toby, moving closer to him to try and block out the man's call::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::slows down, though he keeps moving forward::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::reaches for Toby's arm::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::stops maybe ten feet away from the man::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man steps out of his house, slamming the door behind him, and smiling:: Come on, now. ::motions for them to draw nearer::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she drops back to the floor, upset that she couldn't even distract him::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::is near Jack, so he doesn't feel tempted; softly:: What was that scream in there, anyway?
YarnKittymon: : ::the man grins:: Not your concern, lads. Come *on*!
Quantum Catz: JK: ::pulls out his knife:: Come on, what?
YarnKittymon: : ::glares, backing away:: What's *wrong* with you? Drop those weapons!
YarnKittymon: : ::Toby nearly does so::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::glances at Jack, considering just running forward and trying to deck the kidnapper::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::takes a step forward, holding Toby's arm again to make sure he goes with him::
YarnKittymon: : ::all at once, it dawns on Montcy, and his eyes widen as he reaches for the doorknob:: You know if you kill me, it'll leave the mayor's sister mad for life!
Quantum Catz: JK: ::tries to still feign ignorance:: Who you talkin bout, mate?
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy narrows his eyes at Jack, shaking his head:: I don't know what's gone wrong. ::looks blankly at them for quite a while::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::moves forward a bit more with Toby:: You alright, y'look a bit lost
YarnKittymon: : ::the man suddenly looks up at them, completely alert:: The mayor's sister's in incredible pain now. If you leave right now I'll let her out of it; if not, I'll hurt the other one too.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::frowns at the man, trying to look as confused as he can:: Who're you talkin' about?
YarnKittymon: : ::the man glares:: The mayor's sister! ::shakes his head:: Look, get out of here, get back to Marquis, or a girl's going to get hurt. All right?
Quantum Catz: JK: ::glances at Toby to try and subtly indicate that if they're going to rush forward it's to be then, and together::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods, gripping his bat tighter, and he suddenly jumps forward, aiming a blow for the man's head::
YarnKittymon: : ::and Toby barely hits his shoulder::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::runs forward too and when Toby misses the man's head, aims to grab the man's neck and catch him in a choke hold::
YarnKittymon: : ::Jack gets the man in a chokehold, though the prisoner tries to struggle free; inside the cabin, Dolly suddenly feels like she's being stabbed by half-a-dozen sharp knives::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she gasps in horror at first before she starts screaming in pain. She falls back onto the floor, curling up into a ball:: Jack!!
Quantum Catz: JK: ::tightens his grip quickly to try and knock the man out::
YarnKittymon: : ::Montcy's struggles stop about thirty seconds later, and all the pain leaves Dolly::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she stops screaming but she remains in a tight ball whimpering softly::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::instantly reaches for the door, pushing it open; goes inside, calling:: Dolly?
Quantum Catz: JK: ::lowers the man to the ground:: We need more rope for this guy
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she looks up at Toby, her eyes full of tears and she weakly calls his name::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::goes running over to Dolly, calling to Jack:: Get some in a minute! ::he kneels by Dolly and melts off her shackle, smiling:: That better?
Quantum Catz: JK: ::stands in the doorway and smiles at Dolly::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she sniffs a little, nodding, and then slowly sits up::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::takes the blanket from the cot and makes it into a length of strong rope; tosses it to Jack:: Let's hurry up and get back home. ::looks back at the former prisoner:: Don't worry, Dol; he won't bother you again.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::sets about tying the man up::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::weakly:: I'm ready to go.
YarnKittymon: TY: Can you walk okay?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she nods:: I'm fine. ::although she looks farm from it since her face is still bruised and there's a cut caked with dried blood on her arm::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::cringes when he sees Dolly in better light; quietly:: Your brother will take care of that right away.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::looks over at Toby:: How we gettin this guy back to town?
YarnKittymon: TY: Figured we'd carry him. ::smirks:: Unless we just wanna off him; doubt the mayor would mind.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::feeling rather vulnerable in her nightgown, she follows them out, keeping her head bent to conceal the condition of her face as well::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::raises an eyebrow:: You wanna kill an unconscious man? Can't carry him on m'own - yer gonna have t'help
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods, picking up the man's feet:: He did enough, wouldn't be surprised if he gets executed anyway.
Quantum Catz: JK: Ain't never been the kind of man to kill in cold blood, if the law decides that for 'im then fine, but i ain't gonna decide for 'em
YarnKittymon: TY: ::looks at Dolly; then back down at their prisoner; softly:: Yeah...I know...
YarnKittymon: : ::they're about halfway to Gate Town when the man groans::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she jumps, looking rather scared::
Quantum Catz: JK: ::looks at Toby:: We're gonna have to knock him out again till someone can do something about his powers
YarnKittymon: TY: ::nods, looking up at Jack:: You're a little better at that than I am.
Quantum Catz: JK: ::lowers the man to the ground so he can hold him properly and then presses his fingers to pressure points in the man's neck that should make him lose consciousness again::
YarnKittymon: : ::the man lapses back into unconsciousness before he has a chance to act::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::picks up the man's feet again; quietly:: I'll be glad when this is over. You think Maeve got the other one put away safe?
Quantum Catz: JK: Most likely, i'm sure - and that woman didn't seem like the dangerous one anyway
YarnKittymon: : ::it's nearing nighttime when they finally make it back to Gate Town::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::a couple of the guards hurries forward to take their prisoner from them; one claps Jack and Toby on the shoulder:: You caught 'im, huh?
Quantum Catz: JK: Make sure he stays unconscious or he'll end up doin' the same all over again
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she looks up at Jack and Toby; quietly:: Thanks for coming for me...
YarnKittymon: : ::the guards nod to Jack::
YarnKittymon: TY: ::smiles at Dolly:: Happy to help.
Quantum Catz: JK: Couldn't just leave you there, could we?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::mumbles to herself:: Isaac probably wouldn't have noticed.
YarnKittymon: TY: ::shakes his head:: You get back to him quick; your whole family was worried sick.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she nods, looking rather sad, and heads off towards home::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::gets up from the dinner table as soon as he hears the door open, and comes running when he sees who it is:: Dolly!
Quantum Catz: IS: ::goes through too and quickly pulls his sister into a tight hug::
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she cries silently as she holds on to them::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::softly:: Dolly, are you OK?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::forces a smile, but winces when it hurts the side of her mouth; softly:: Yeah, I'm fine...
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks at his sister's face, frowning and for a moment looking angry, then he forces the feeling back and touches her face, easing the bruises with his power::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::smiles happily when Dolly's healed; softly:: I wish you would've been here to make dinner today.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she grimaces; pulling away:: Sorry, I'll make sure to make it back before dinner next time. ::starts to walk away without even thanking Isaac::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looking worried:: Dolly, are you sure you're okay?Is there anything you want us to do?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she waves them off::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::frowns:: I just meant, you're a much better cook than Isaac and me.
Maeve Owens: DK: ::tears sting her eyes as she continues to walk away, not bothering to answer::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looking helpless:: Please Dolly, let me do something - i've been sitting here helpless all day, just waiting to here something
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she turns around to glare at them:: All day? Or just until you noticed breakfast wasn't ready? ::she doesn't wait for an answer before she continues to stalk back up the stairs::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::cringes, looking rather sad; quietly:: Should we leave her alone?
Quantum Catz: IS: ::just looks hurt:: I guess i'll go up and talk to her once she's had some rest, she's been through a lot today ::tries to smile at Josh::
YarnKittymon: JH: ::sighs; softly:: When I got home from almost being hurt, I just wanted to hug everyone.
Quantum Catz: IS: I guess eveyrone reacts differently
YarnKittymon: JH: ::looks at Isaac; softly:: I'm not hungry anymore; do I have to go back to dinner?
Quantum Catz: IS: No, it's okay
YarnKittymon: JH: ::nods at his brother, and looks like he wants to go back up and comfort Dolly, but after a moment he sighs, and just goes to the radio instead::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks like he wants to go upstairs as well but instead murmurs:: I'd better clear up the dishes
Maeve Owens: MV: ::softly:: Don't worry about it. I'll get it. ::she smiles sadly, then turns to leave before he can protest::
Quantum Catz: IS: I'll at least help, i need something to do
Maeve Owens: MV: ::she smiles sadly:: It looks like you already have something to do. ::she glances up at the stairs then back to him:: Go on. I'll tackle the dishes and if they cooperate... I promise not to break everyone single one of them.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::hesitates and then says:: Okay ::heads up the stairs and knocks on Dolly's door:: Hey, can i come in?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::her voice barely travels through the closed door:: Sure.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::opens the door and tries to smile at Dolly:: I just...wanted to talk to you...
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she drops her gaze and then shrugs::
Quantum Catz: IS: Dolly...I...don't know what to say...i love you, you know that, right?
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she looks back at him; crying softly:: Love me for who I am or because I cook the meals? That's the only time I'm even noticed anyway.
Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks like he wants to cry himself:: That isn't true, it isn't true at all - you don't have to cook anything, you just always seemed to want to
Maeve Owens: DK: I did- I do! But I go away and the only thing everyone seems to notice is that the meal isn't as good as it normally is! ::she buries her head in her hands, suddenly thinking it sounds utterly absurd but still needing that reass
Maeve Owens: urance::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::moves to sit down on the bed:: Josh was only joking, he was just glad to see you again...
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she shakes her head:: I know but even before today... I'm not really needed unless it's time to eat.
Quantum Catz: IS: You don't have to be needed, you have to do anything for us to love you or want you around
Maeve Owens: DK: ::the weight of everything that's happened is finally too much to bear, and she breaks into fitfull sobs. She leans towards him, just wanting to be held now more than anything::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::wraps his arms around her, resting his head on hers:: It's okay, we're all here for you, if you want us
Maeve Owens: DK: ::she quickly nods her head:: I'm sorry. All I wanted was to come home and then I thought I'd never see any of you again and... ::she shakes her head, trying to dispel the image of Isaac dying::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::hugs her more tightly:: You're home now, you're safe...
Maeve Owens: DK; ::she just cries a little harder, and snuggles into his embrace, content with letting him hold her till she falls asleep::
Quantum Catz: IS: ::just sits there holding her, grateful that she's alright::

On to Tuesday, July 4, 1933

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