yarnkittymon: :  ::it's very early in the morning, before dawn, when a man with weathered skin and only one ear comes to the door, knocking::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::wasn't up yet, but he hears the door and heads downstairs, hoping not to wake Maeve::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks up at Isaac, a desperate look in his eyes, calling::  My daughter.

maggybeths: MV: ::she stirs slightly when she doesn't feel Isaac beside her. When he comes back into the room, she props herself up; softly:: Isaac?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::blinks away the rest of his tiredness:: Just give me a minute to get ready ::goes off to do so::

yarnkittymon: :  ::a dark expression enters his eyes as Isaac's back turns::

Quantum Catz: IS: There's a guy downstairs, he needs me to heal his daughter

maggybeths: MV: ::she frowns and gets out of bed, intending to get dressed:: Oh? Is she sick?

Quantum Catz: IS: I don't know - i figured i should get dressed first. I can ask him on the way ::stops to look at her:: You don't need to come, it's pretty early, you could probably do with some more sleep

maggybeths: MV: ::she shakes her head:: I won't be able to go back to sleep anyway.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks rather upset, tapping his foot, murmuring to himself::  Don't have much time.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::hesitates:: Alright ::starts to finish getting ready::

maggybeths: MV: ::looks a little surprised he gave in so easy, and goes to get ready herself::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::waits for Maeve before he heads downstairs::

maggybeths: MV: ::she finishes, and gives him a tired smile before she leads the way downstairs::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks up anxiously::  You might already be too late.

Quantum Catz: IS: How far away is she?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  A little closer to Pine than Marquis.  I've got the cart.  ::looks rather surprised to see Maeve::

maggybeths: MV: ::she smiles weakly at the man; quietly:: I'm sorry to hear about your daughter. I figured I'd come along to help if there was anything I could do?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  Isaac will either save her or not...it's a long trip; you should stay back.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::glances at Maeve:: If we have to get there in a hurry, maybe you should stay here. You don't need to be racing around just now

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man turns away, scowling, but all he says is::  She's dying.  Please hurry.

maggybeths: MV: ::she bites her lip, looking hesitant. She subconsciously puts a hand on her stomach, and turns a bit pale, knowing how the last time she went out to help almost cost her the baby. She reluctantly nods her head; quietly:: Okay... Just be careful, Isaac?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::smiles:: Aren't I always? ::leans down to kiss her:: I'll be back as soon as i can

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man can't help but tremble in rage, as the group keeps talking, even while they're thinking his daughter is dying::

maggybeths: MV: ::she cringes, and follows them to the door:: I could wake Eli and send him with you?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::hesitates, then says:: Let him sleep. He can catch up with me later if he wants to

maggybeths: MV: ::she nods again, though she looks like she wants to change her mind::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::glances a bit at the man, mistaking the trembling for worry rather than rage and look at Maeve:: I need to go, i'll see you later ::kisses her again and turns away::

maggybeths: MV: ::she watches them go, looking worried, and kind of suspicious of the man but she shrugs it off. Once they're out of her sight, she shuts the door::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man starts walking quickly; there's a cart with a rather thin horse harnessed to it, and he motions::  Come on.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::follows him:: What's wrong with your daughter? Do you know?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  She had a high fever, and was crying out even in her sleep.

Quantum Catz: IS: I'm sorry. I'll do what i can for her

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man says::  It's likely too late.

Quantum Catz: IS: We won't know that till we get there, there's no point in losing hope yet

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man doesn't look any happier, but he urges the horse on::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::remains quiet, not sure what to say to the man::

yarnkittymon: :  ::it's probably 9 or 10 AM before they reach some developed farmland, and the horse nickers quietly, entering familiar land::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::had been starting to drift back to sleep but sits up when the horse nickers:: Are we nearly there?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man nods grimly::  Just another mile.  ::the horse knows well enough to go off the main road and onto a side road, before the man even urges him::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::sits quietly, thinking of the poor girl and hoping that they won't be too late::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man stops in front of a very small but well-kept house, and hops out of the cart, rushing inside.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::follows after him::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the house itself is kept very clean; in the main room, there's what appears to be an unconscious, motionless girl on a cot, but if Isaac comes closer, he'll see it's a plaster mask on a body made of pillows--a death mask::

Quantum Catz: ((a death mask as in an imprint of her face?  that would take longer to get round to than the time they've been travelling, right?))

yarnkittymon: ((It's made of plaster, so MAYBE it could've been done if they had the things ready and did it soon after the man left, but yeah, it would at the very least look very suspicious :P))

Quantum Catz: IS: ::stops short when he realises that there isn't a girl there and he sees what it really is; looks at the man:: What's going on?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man closes the door behind them, shaking his head, his eyes dry::  I brought her to Marquis...she was all I had left in the world.  And you weren't there.  Your substitute couldn't do a thing, and she died.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::winces:: I'm sorry. I can't be there for everyone.  I wish i could

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head; in a quiet voice::  When my wife was giving birth to our second child, I sent away for you.  You wouldn't come, and she died.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks confused:: When was that?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man says::  Middle of August.  My entire family is dead now.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::hesitates:: I'm sorry.  I really am.  I don't leave town unless it's important - the same reason i've left town right now

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  You didn't even ask why I didn't bring my daughter.  You fool.  ::he clears his throat::

Quantum Catz: IS: Sometimes people are too ill to be moved ::takes a step back towards the door:: Why did you bring me here?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  You'll see.  Carson?

maggybeths: ::a door opens in the back, and another man steps into the room, grinning. He's in slacks, and a buttoned shirt with a worn hat on his head:: Are we ready Mr. Sadler?

Quantum Catz: IS: You won't gain anything from hurting me, except making sure that some other family is going to suffer like you did when i'm not there

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  But you *will* be there, Isaac.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::frowns:: What're you talking about?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man nods to Carson, grabbing Isaac's wrist, and holding out his other hand to the stranger::  I'm ready.  It's easier to show you than to explain.

maggybeths: ::the man nods and takes Sadler's hand. He closes his eyes, and begins to concentrate::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Mr. Sadler tightens his grip, and Isaac finds himself growing numb::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tries to pull his arm away::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Isaac feels himself growing weak, and then almost feels like he's floating.  Everything looks strange, and then his head feels odd; his hearing is altered::

Quantum Catz: IS: Whatever you're doing, it won't work - my brother's probably already on his way here

maggybeths: ::the other man lets go of Sadler's hand, and steps away, looking smug::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::groans, his free hand going up to his head::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Isaac's hand feels rough on his head, and something just feels wrong.  His groan doesn't sound like his own::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::stares at his own image in front of his face, rather dazed:: How...?

yarnkittymon: :  ::Isaac hears his own voice mutter::  Now you get it?

Quantum Catz: IS: My family won't fall for this

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man who looks like Isaac is smiling::  It came at a price, of course.  Carson here will be draining my life away.

maggybeths: ::Carson smirks:: And I suggest you get moving. Your days are numbered.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  I have some of your memories, and you have some of mine.  ::nods to Carson::  I need to make sure.  Punch him.

maggybeths: ::Carson raises an eyebrow at the man:: Punch him? You have to be kidding. ::he flexes his clean hands. They don't appear to have done even a days worth of hard labor. He smiles a little, says a short spell and attempts to zap Isaac::

yarnkittymon: :  ::a small bolt comes from Carson's hand, towards the man who looks like Sadler::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tries to avoid it, but is still rather dazed; when it hits him, he drops to his knees, groaning and then wincing just at the sound of his own voice::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man with Isaac's body comes forward, reaching out, trying to heal him; he's outright delighted when it appears to work::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::glares up at him:: Some memories or not, they'll know something isn't right

yarnkittymon: :  But they won't know what to do about it.  ::shakes his head::  Carson, can you take care of him?

maggybeths: : ::Carson smirks:: What do you want me to do with him? Killing him will cost you a few extra days.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  Just lock him up.  ::smiles slightly::  I'll have done what I need to with his family, by the time he works his way out of magic locks.

maggybeths: : ::Carson shrugs and begins to chant::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::gets to his feet, looking towards the door:: Eli won't let you touch any of the others

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man smirks, looking more evil than Isaac ever has::  If you have to believe that, all right.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::makes a run for the door::

maggybeths: ::a glowing cage starts to appear where Isaac was just standing::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man runs forward, aiming to tackle Isaac::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tries to fight the man off, vaguely hoping that he might have some kind of power to help him::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man with Isaac's body aims to punch his old body::

maggybeths: : The cage is ready whenever you get done messing around.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tries to block the punch, but finds it rather disconcerting to hit himself, so hesitates::

yarnkittymon: :  ::if Isaac knew what power he was supposed to be using, there's a good chance he could do some good, but he can't just figure out what he should be doing by trying::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler, however, hates himself, and has no trouble decking himself, or shoving him towards the cage::

maggybeths: ::the cage door swings open, ready for it's prisoner::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::stumbles into the cage and immediately tries to get out of it again::

maggybeths: : the cage door swings shut on it's own, trapping Isaac::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler nods gratefully to Carson::  Remember, we have a deal.  ::smirks::  And when I'm gone, you're welcome to him as a bonus.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::bangs against the door:: This isn't going to bring your family back!

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler shakes his head::  No, it's not.  Don't worry...Maeve's pretty enough...I might keep her.

maggybeths: : ::Carson takes a seat in one of the chairs, looking like he has all the time in the world::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::curses and hits the door again:: She'll see through you

maggybeths: : ::he looks up:: Don't bother banging on it please. You aren't getting out.

yarnkittymon: :  She won't think I'm just ill?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::pales a bit at the man's words and doesn't say anything::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler shakes his head::  And *I'll* stay in town for *anyone* who needs help.  ::turns and leaves::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::shouts after him:: I helped everyone I could!

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler doesn't look back::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::looks at Carson, desperately:: Would an animal notice that he isn't me? A dog or a cat? Would they smell it?

maggybeths: : ::Carson grins:: How could they? It's your body that just walked out of here.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::groans and rests his head against the cage, desperately hoping that one of the others will notice *something*::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler hurries back to Marquis, making it well before supper time; the first thing he asks when he comes in the door is::  Did I miss anyone who needed me while I was gone?

maggybeths: MV: ::she opens her mouth to say one thing, but ends up frowning and shaking her head instead:: Well, yes. Mrs. Peterson stopped by. She has a bit of a cold... but what about the little girl? Did you make it in time?

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler looks down, shaking his head once; quietly::  I'm a monster.  ::closes his eyes, trying to visualize where Mrs. Peterson lives::

maggybeths: MV: ::her eyes widen:: What? She's okay Isaac... it's just a cold. ::she moves closer to him, reaching for his arm. Are you okay?

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler shakes his head, leaning into Maeve's embrace, though his body feels rather stiff::  She's dead, Maeve.

maggybeths: MV: ::quietly:: It's not your fault Isaac. You did everything you could do.

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler shakes his head again, silently::

maggybeths: MV: ::she tightens her hold on him, unsure of what else to say to comfort him::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::comes out from the kitchen:: Hey, i went looking for you earlier to give you a lift back but-- ::Stops when he sees them hugging::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler tenses slightly, looking over at Eli::  It's all right; he let me borrow his cart.

maggybeths: MV: ::she pulls away, reluctantly and smiles worriedly at Isaac:: Are you sure you're okay?

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler quietly says::  It's not wrong to be upset about not being able to save someone.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::rolls his eyes:: There's someone every day you can't save. Used to be a time when you were too busy fishing to do any healing

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler looks just briefly confused, before everything comes together, and he nods::  But I didn't have Maeve.  It's a fair trade.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks at him a bit confused:: Oh yeah, i'd kill to go back to that life

maggybeths: MV: ::she smiles weakly:: Well, I'm glad I could be your ticket out of a life of fishing. Anyway, dinner is mostly ready... of course the other downside to getting me is getting my cooking.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::smirks:: You're getting better - i'm not as worried about food poisoning as i used to be

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler smiles back, though he still looks rather haunted::  I'm sure it will be fine.

maggybeths: MV: ::she smiles, shrugging a bit as she heads for the kitchen::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::rolls his eyes:: You'd probably still try to tell her that if it was charcoaled

maggybeths: MV: Which is why *he's* the nicer brother. ::she smiles at Isaac, and calls out a hello to Josh before she starts moving things to the table::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::comes back from his afternoon jog, smiling a hello before he goes through to the bathroom to wash up::

maggybeths: LA: ::comes in quietly after Eli, having not said anything but the dialog has certainly amused her::

maggybeths: MV: ::she frowns:: Isaac, if you need to talk about it... but I know you did everything you could for her...

yarnkittymon: :  ::Sadler quietly says::  I have.  ::goes to help set the table::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks at his brother:: You sure you're alright?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man nods::  Still feeling a bit off...of course I would.

Quantum Catz: EK: She's dead, there's nothing you can do now - think about the baby, that usually puts a dopey grin on your face

yarnkittymon: :  ::Memories or not, Sadler looks slightly surprised, and the promised smile doesn't come; quietly::  I'm sorry.

Quantum Catz: EK: What for?

yarnkittymon: :  ::shakes his head, silently::

yarnkittymon: :  ::shakes his head again, trying to smile::  I'm here now.  And I have a baby coming...::smiles again::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::comes back to the table::  Can I help?  ::he's still breathing a little hard from his run::

maggybeths: MV: ::smiles back at him::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::quietly::  Sorry I was late.

Quantum Catz: EK:  Isaac just got back as well

maggybeths: MV: Everything is ready

maggybeths: MV: ::quietly finishes setting up the table and then takes a seat::
yarnkittymon: :  ::the man who looks like Isaac nods to Josh, then sits down, glancing at Maeve, then down at the table::
Quantum Catz: EK: ::nudges Leyla towards a seat as he goes to sit as well::
maggybeths: LA: ::she smiles slightly as she slides into her seat::
maggybeths: MV: ::she looks back at Isaac, frowning a bit. Figuring that he must still be upset, she gets up to start serving which is something Isaac usually took care of.::
yarnkittymon: :  ::when his meal in in front of him, the man takes a small bite, grimacing::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::kicks his older brother's foot under the table, a bit surprised at his brother since he wouldn't usually be so obvious as to grimace::

maggybeths: LA: ::they hear a small gasp from Leyla who quickly hides her face::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks up at Leyla, frowning::  What is it, D--Leyla?

maggybeths: MV: ::she pales just a bit, and looks away.:: Sorry... I guess it's even worse than usual even if it isn't burnt...

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head, quietly saying::  Cooking's not your strong suit.

maggybeths: LA: ::quietly:: Nothing

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks at Leyla, conerned, then slants a look at his brother:: Hey, that;s my line

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man frowns, glancing over at Maeve::

maggybeths: MV: ::she tries to shrug it off but it's easy to see that she's tense. She pushes her food around on her plate a bit, afraid to even test it herself.:: I guess we could go out to eat...

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  A shame to waste food.  ::gets to work eating::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::quietly::  I don't know what Isaac's upset about, Maeve.  It's pretty good.  ::takes a big bite::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::smiles, though looks a bit annoyed at Isaac:: Definitely better than it used to be

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man has to keep from clearing his throat::

maggybeths: MV: ::she forces a tiny smile, grateful to them for trying.::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::clears his plate and asks for seconds; he's been eating quite a bit lately, so he's probably not just patronizing Maeve::

maggybeths: MV: ::she grimaces:: Are you sure Josh? ::she scoops out another portion for him anyway::

maggybeths: LA: ::she is quietly cleaning off her plate::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::smiles::  I've never even gotten sick from your cooking.  It's perfectly fine.  ::makes a face at Isaac::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man who looks like Isaac hasn't eaten much at all::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::still looks annoyed at Isaac; looks at Leyla:: Fancy a run later? Cat versus dog - betcha I'll win

maggybeths: LA: ::she points her little button nose up in the air:: Ha. Cats are better than dogs. Everyone knows that.

yarnkittymon: JH:  Eli could be a cat to make it fair.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::smirks:: How would that prove that dogs are better though?

maggybeths: LA: It wouldnt but it would still prove that I am the better cat.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks at them, considering whether to say something, but he decides against it, instead picking up his mostly-full plate and clearing it into the garbage::

maggybeths: MV: ::after a second. she picks up her completely-full plate. and the mostly empty dish of food, and clears them from the table as well.::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks from Isaac to Maeve, looking annoyed again::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man glances at Eli, coldly saying::  Don't look at me that way.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::frowns and growls:: Don't talk to me that way. What's gotten into you?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  A bad day.  That's all.  ::heads towards the stairs::

Quantum Catz: EK: :mutters:: You've had worse days. Stop taking it out on Maeve and me

maggybeths: MV: ::murmurs:: It's fine Eli.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man scowls at Eli, then heads back towards the stairs::  I'm going to bed.

maggybeths: LA: ::she sinks down in her chair, not liking the situation::

Quantum Catz: EK: You mean you're going off to hide. Least you could do is say sorry

maggybeths: MV: ::she continues to clean off the table::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  I've let the both of you get away with too much around here.

maggybeths: MV: ::she drops a plate and it clatters to the floor, breaking into pieces:: What?

maggybeths: LA: ::she jumps at the noise::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::is staring on with wide eyes::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks back at Maeve, coldly::  I thought if I married you, you'd learn to keep a better house.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::stands up and moves towards his brother, looking angry::

maggybeths: MV: ::all the color completely drains from her face, and she grabs for the chair, narrowly missing the shards of glass around her feet:: What? Isaac...

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  I'm tired of pretending, Maeve.

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::stares at his brother::  You don't mean it.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man glares at Josh::  Don't you get started!

Quantum Catz: EK: ::grabs Isaac by the shirt and pulls him forward; softly:: Shut up, now, before you say something you'll regret

yarnkittymon: ((Eli's probably about Isaac's size or bigger, isn't he?))

Quantum Catz: ((probably, he could take him in a fight, i'm sure ;-)))

maggybeths: MV: ::she looks completely devastated now. She shakes her head, and tries to slip past them and up the stairs:: Fine! It's not like you didn't have any warning!

Quantum Catz: ((though, i meant to say, that isaac's been practicing trying to drain things with his power, so in theory, if it occured to the guy to try, he might be able to do it - if i'm allowed to add to his power anyway :-)))

yarnkittymon: ((Nah, it probably wouldn't occur to the guy :) ))

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks a little pale, but looks Eli in the eyes; quietly::  This is how you repay the years I sacrificed myself for you.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::quietly:: I'm trying to stop you from hurting the people you love. And we all know you love Maeve, so i don't know why you're saying all this ::sighs, looking uncertain despite his words:: I *know* you don't think it was a sacrifice

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man finally admits::  Sacrifice may not have been the right word.  But I think I deserve some respect from you.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::lets go of his shirt:: You know I respect you - I'd die for the lot of you. But Maeve deserves *your* respect, she's family now too

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks rather bewildered at that, even taken aback; quietly::  Eli...

Quantum Catz: ((bewildered at which part? :-) not that eli could tell))

Quantum Catz: EK: Are you gonna apologise to her or not?

yarnkittymon: ((the dying part))

Quantum Catz: ((ah :-)))

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man cringes, heading for the stairs, more slowly this time::

maggybeths: MV: ::she's upstairs, fighting to keep her tears in check. She has no idea what just happened, but she isn't planning to stay around for more of it. Now, if she could only find something to stuff her things into...::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::watches him go and then turns to look at Leyla and Josh:: What was that all about?

yarnkittymon: :  ::there's a soft knock on Maeve's door::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::shakes his head; quietly::  He said he had a bad day, but it sounded like it was someone else talking.

maggybeths: MV: ::she scowls at the closed door, and then turns her back on it, not answering::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::shakes his head:: I didn't think i'd ever hear Isaac say something bad about Maeve

maggybeths: LA: :she bites her lip, looking worried::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::quietly::  We need to find out what happened when he went out.  He's usually not *mad* when he can't heal someone.

Quantum Catz: EK: I flew over and saw him in that cart earlier - he was in a rush to get back. ::shrugs:: Or maybe to get away from something. Leyla and I could go check it out

maggybeths: LA: Do you know exactly where he went?

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::shakes his head::  He would've told Maeve, though.

Quantum Catz: EK: We could track that horse back to where it came from

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::nods::  It probably knows the way.

maggybeths: LA: ::she nods:: Yes, we could that. ::she gets up::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man knocks on Maeve's door again, calling::  Maeve?

maggybeths: MV: ::snaps:: What do you want?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  I've been under a lot of stress.  The...::calls to his memory::...the mayor's been yelling at me, I've let so many people die lately...

maggybeths: MV: ::she stalks over to the door and yanks it open:: And? That's suddenly made you realize this isn't what you want?

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks at Josh; half-jokingly:: You should stay here and make sure Maeve doesn't fireball him

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::frowns, shaking his head; softly::  I'm tired of being left behind.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  It just put me in a sour mood.  I'll say I'm sorry if you like.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::hesitates:: I don't like the idea of leaving them alone, not when he's like this

maggybeths: MV: ::she slams the door in his face:: I don't want to hear it if you don't mean it!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man puts his hands up::  Maeve, I mean it!

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::exhales deeply; without smiling::  I might get practice in firefighting, I guess.

maggybeths: MV: ::she turns back to look at him, still scowling:: Oh really?

maggybeths: LA: We'll try to hurry.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  Were you really going to leave Eli and Josh and Dolly?

Quantum Catz: EK: ::nods:: We'll see you soon, Josh ::glances at the stairs and then heads for the door::

maggybeths: MV: Well if you are "tired of pretending", I wouldn't have much of a choice now would I?

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still looks unhappy, but he lets them go::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  So you're not the best cook.  We can eat out.

maggybeths: LA: ::smiles weakly at Josh, trying to encourage him a bit before she follows Eli out.::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::looks at Leyla:: You alright to turn into a bird? I'll get us to where I saw Isaac then we can pick up the horse's trail there - flying'll be faster

maggybeths: LA: ::she bites her lip and after a moment of hesitation, she nods her head:: I can try. :she closes her eyes and tries to concentrate on shifting her form. It's a slow and weird looking process but in time she might be able to do it::

maggybeths: MV: ::she stares at Isaac for a moment, trying to figure out what changed::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man pauses, saying::  You didn't eat much at supper.  Let's go get something now.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::waits until Leyla manages to change and then turns into a bird himself; heading for where he saw isaac earlier::

maggybeths: MV: ::she shakes her head, turning away.:: I'm not hungry. Go ahead if you like.

maggybeths: LA: ::she has a bit of trouble getting off the ground, but once she makes it she does just fine::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head, slipping into the bedroom::  Don't be upset with me.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::Stays near Leyla while they fly::

maggybeths: MV: Well? What do you expect? You've never made such a fuss over the cooking before. In fact you've been encouraging!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  I told you, I had a bad day.

maggybeths: LA: ::she squawks a bit when the wind tosses her around unexpectadly, but otherwise is having a good flight. Probably would be more fun under different circumstances::

maggybeths: MV: ::she sighs, and slowly turns to face him again:: I know. And I'm sorry. But it still isn't like you... ::she shrugs and lowers her gaze again::

Quantum Catz: ((hmm, how much faster than a horse would a bird go, d'you think? it took the horse a few hours to get all the way there))

yarnkittymon: ((If they're soaring birds, quite a bit faster, but we can take our time))

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head::  Well, you've had your own spells.

maggybeths: ((take all the time in the world.... lol. ))

maggybeths: MV: ::she frowns:: What?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  You've snapped at me before.  That's all I'm saying.

maggybeths: MV: ::softly:: But I've never been cruel about it.

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head again; quietly::  I'm sorry, Maeve.  It's my fault.

maggybeths: MV: ::she finally looks up at him. nodding slightly. Hesitantly, she takes a step towards him.:: I'm sorry it was a bad day....

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man reaches for Maeve, looking almost as if he's seeing her beauty for the first time::  Don't apologize, sweetheart.

maggybeths: ((has Isaac ever called her sweetheart before?))

yarnkittymon: ((That's up to Caroline :D ))

maggybeths: ((what happened to Eli and Leyla?))

Quantum Catz: ((doubt it, i don't like sweetheart - probably darling or honey at times))

Quantum Catz: ((was working out how much faster they were than a horse ;-)))

Quantum Catz: ((six times the speed if the horse was cantering/trotting and they're going fast :-)))

maggybeths: MV: ::she raises an eyebrow at him, looking amused:: Sweetheart? ::she does let him pull her to him::

maggybeths: ((will being a horse make tracking harder? For THEM anyway? Leyla might not even be able to change to something that big... a my little pony perhaps :D))

Quantum Catz: ((they don't need to be horses - they're tracking the scent of the bad guy's horse, she can do that as a cat))

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man does his best not to look startled, and he leans forward to kiss Maeve on the cheek::

maggybeths: MV: ::she frowns, looking confused again:: Wow, maybe you should get some sleep?

maggybeths: ((then why were you calculating how long it would take for a horse to get there?))

Quantum Catz: EK: ::they can fly a lot faster than it took the horse to cover the distance and Eli soon drops down towards the path he saw Isaac on::

Quantum Catz: ((cos isaac travelled there by horse and it took hours))

maggybeths: LA: ::she follows him, making a fairly graceful landing::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man nods; softly::  Are you going to lay down beside me?  ::he suddenly cringes, looking a little ill::

yarnkittymon: ((Which is me remembering he's supposed to be being drained ;) ))

Quantum Catz: EK: ::changes into a dog, sniffing the ground, and glances at Leyla, waiting for her to change again::

maggybeths: LA: ::it takes her a while to morph again but when she manages it, she scampers off ahead of Eli, hot on the scent::

maggybeths: MV: ::her eyes widen, and she reaches for him:: Are you feeling all right?

Quantum Catz: EK: ::makes a grumbling noise almost like a laugh and runs after her::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man cringes; softly::  I'll be all right...

maggybeths: MV: ::lookinh\g embarrassed now, she lowers her head:: Maybe I should run out and get you something to eat while you rest?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man cringes again; quietly::  No...that won't help.  ::pauses::  Thank you, though.

maggybeths: MV: Well, then what will help?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head; softly::  Laying next to you might.

maggybeths: MV: ::that coaxes a small smile out of her as she leads him over to the bed::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man lays down, taking Maeve's hand::

maggybeths: MV: ::she curls up next to him, still a little tense, but she's trying to shrug it off::

maggybeths: ((I think we should go back to Isaac just before they find him :D ))

Quantum Catz: EK: ::nudges Leyla to slow down when the scent of humans gets stronger::

yarnkittymon: ((Yeah, probably, but I have no characters there))

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man gently rubs one of Maeve's shoulders::

Quantum Catz: ((we can do it while doing everything else :-)))

maggybeths: LA: ::she slows her pace, and looks around, not really wanting to meet up with anyone else::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::meanwhile, has decided that since he has nothing better to do, he's going to try and work out if this man has a power. He's going through every one he can think of, attempting to use it, and knowing it's most likely pointless; groans and hits the cage for the umpteenth time::

maggybeths: MV: ::she looks up at him, smiling slightly, and then lays her head back down::

Quantum Catz: ((was this guys house on its own or in a village/town?))

maggybeths: : ::Carson looks up from his books for the umteenth time:: When are you going to give it a rest?

yarnkittymon: ((I thought on its own))

Quantum Catz: IS: ::mutters:: When the cage breaks

maggybeths: : ::Carson laughs:: The cage is not going anywhere.

Quantum Catz: IS: Well i've got nothing better to do except try

maggybeths: : Well, I would prefer it if you didn't. The sound is annoying.

Quantum Catz: IS: I'm so sorry for irritating you after you let some guy steal my life from me

maggybeths: : Technically you still have a life since you are still alive.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::hesitates:: You said you were draining him - how long will *he* be alive for?

maggybeths: : ::Carson shrugs:: A day or two, maybe three.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::moves forward, noticng a house up ahead::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::softly:: Then he gets nothing from this but...but hurting my family.

maggybeths: : ::Carson shrugs again:: That's what he wanted. Well, actually he just wanted a family again. But it comes with a price. ::he smiles::

maggybeths: LA: ::she croutches down, low, and moves along side Eli. She sniffing, trying to figure out how many people are around.::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::mutters:: Some price

maggybeths: : ::smirks:: Not to him I suppose. ::he puts his book down, and eyes Isaac:: Well, the whole thing isn't complete yet but perhaps it's not too soon to start using you.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tenses:: Using me?

maggybeths: : I need someone to test out my spells on.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::glares at him:: You can't do any worse than you already have

maggybeths: : ::Carson smiles:: We'll see. ::he reaches for Isaac's arm, trying to grip it tightly, as he quickly utters a short spell::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::moves towards the house, rather uncertain what to do, since what he wants to do is walk right in and demand to know what the guy did to his brother::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Isaac suddenly sees Maeve, through the eyes of the man who took his identity::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::tries to pull his arm away again; his chest tightens when he sees his wife:: Maeve...

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man gently touches Maeve's cheek, then leans forward to kiss her::

Quantum Catz: IS: No! Don't touch her!

maggybeths: MV: ::she still looks a little pale, but she smiles a bit as Isaac leans in to kiss her, oblivious to the real Isaac's turmoil::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::upset:: Maeve, it isn't me!  It isn't me!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man finally draws back from Maeve; softly::  Good night, my darling.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::clenches his fists and tries to kick at Carson:: Break the spell! Stop this!

maggybeths: MV: ::she smiles; quietly:: Good night.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::creeps towards the window, hoping to peer in and see if anyone's there::

maggybeths: : ::he is safely on the other side of the bars::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::wills it all to stop, trying to block the image of maeve from his mind::

maggybeths: LA: ::she goes around to another spot to see if she'll have any luck::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man Isaac can still see through leans against Maeve, putting an arm around her::

maggybeths: MV: ::she snuggles closer to him, looking content enough::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::is still wishing for it to stop, trying to yank away from the man::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Carson suddenly finds himself frozen, though his mind works just fine::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::decides to change into a cat so he can see better and jumps up onto the window ledge::

maggybeths: : ::the shock breaks his concentration, and Isaac finds himself free of his control::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::backs away, not sure what to do now, since he's still trapped in the cage::

Quantum Catz: ((let me know if the curtains are open and either eli or leyla can see in as well :-) if so, isaac may notice eli ))

yarnkittymon: ((Even if they're not open, they might not be fully shut, if that makes sense))

maggybeths: : ::if looks could kill, and if he was able to make any facial movements right now, Isaac would be dead. He's silent for a while, trying to work on a spell to free him of this::

yarnkittymon: :  ::Carson would only be able to speak with the very deepest of effort::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::stares at the man, willing him to stay frozen, though he's not sure how long it'll last::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::sees movement on the window ledge and, rather hopefully, shouts:: Eli? Leyla? ::though he can't help but think that it's probably just a stray, or even his torturer's cat::

maggybeths: : ::curses again when he's finally able to move. He glares at Isaac:: No one is coming for you. You saw what was happening. They've taken to him quite nicely!

Quantum Catz: EK: ::jumps down and runs round to find Leyla::

maggybeths: LA: ::her cat ears picked up on that and she darts back around to find Eli::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::glares at him:: He'll slip up, he's nothing like me and they'll realise

maggybeths: : It doesn't look like your wife is catching on.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::winces, looking away, not wanting to think about it::

maggybeths: : ::he smirks and begins to chant again. Isaac may feel the blood in his veins getting quite hot::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::changes into a human when he sees Leyla; whispers:: You heard them, right?

maggybeths: LA: ::she changes back as well and nods:: I heard it.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::cries out, dropping to his knees, and tries to freeze the man again, though it's hard to concentrate through the pain::

Quantum Catz: EK: If that could be Isaac in there, then we have to help him. But that cage...the guy could be a sorcerer

maggybeths: : ::he continues to chant, taking up the heat as far as he dares, until he sees a bit of blood on Isaac's skin.::

maggybeths: LA: If we can pin him fast enough maybe he won't be able to hurt us? It would be easy enough for us to sneak in though as mice?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::screams and falls to the floor::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::hears the scream and suddenly looks angry:: Stay out of the way ::changes into a dragon, albeit a small one with rather stunted wings since he rushed the change, and blows flames at the house::

yarnkittymon: :  ::it hasn't been particularly dry, so the house resists the fire at first; however, after a bit it does start to smoulder::

maggybeths: : ::he turns at the noise, his eyes widening:: What's that! ::he backs away, glancing at the back door::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::keeps burning at the walls and then runs forward, smashing them with his head, barrelling towards the man to knock him down before he can voice a spell::

maggybeths: : ::too stunned to even move, Eli hits him dead on, and sends him flying into the back wall. He slumps down, not moving::

maggybeths: LA: ::she's outside, looking worried again.::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::groans, his body trembling from the spell on his blood:: Eli...

maggybeths: LA: ::she carefully sneaks inside and approaches the man, looking concerned. She kneesl down next to him; quietly:: Isaac?

Quantum Catz: EK: ::glares at Carson for a long moment and then changes back to his human form when he doesn't move; goes in search of rope and a gag::

yarnkittymon: :  ::there's some rope in a small closet, and sheets that could be torn into gags in a pinch::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::groans:: Leyla...we need to...need to...

maggybeths: LA: ::she cringes, and shakes her head:: We'll go as soon as we've secured that man and you've had a chance to rest.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::pulls the ropes probably a lot more tight than they need to be and rips sheets to gag the man::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::wincing:: He's with Maeve

maggybeths: LA: She'll be fine, I'm sure. Josh is there.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::groans again and and his eyes fall closed::

maggybeths: LA: ::reaches out to shake him; sounding a bit scared:: Isaac?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::just seems to have fallen unconscious::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::moves towards them:: This is really weird.  He certainly doesn't look like isaac, doesn't even smell like him

maggybeths: LA: ::she shrugs:: Well, that man is a sorcerer right? And this guy knew who we were...? I don't know.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::glances at the sorcerer again:: But why would someone do this to Isaac?

maggybeths: LA: I dont know. The only people that can answer that are unconscious. Or maybe whoever it is back at the house?

Quantum Catz: : EK: ::sighs:: We should get home ::looks at the sorcerer:: We'll have to take him with us, he might be the only one who can reverse whatever this is

maggybeths: LA: How are we going to make it back with the two of them?

yarnkittymon: ::  ::back at Isaac's house, the man who looks like Isaac is nuzzling Maeve in his sleep; he murmurs::  Marilla...

maggybeths: MV: ::she was still wide awake and she stiffens when she hears Isaac mutter another name. Knowing now that something must really be wrong, she stiffens and tries to pull away::

yarnkittymon:  :  ::the man calling himself Isaac slowly stirs, murmuring::  What's wrong, darling?

MV: ::snaps:: Who are you?

:  ::the man quietly says::  Isaac.

MV: ::she glares at him and reaches for his collar, trying to seem threatening:: Games over! You just called me Marilla. Now who are you!?

:  ::the man shakes his head::  My first girlfriend.  She had...nothing on you.  ::reaches for Maeve, trying to kiss her again::

MV: ::the nagging feeling she's been getting all night intensifies, and doesn't go away with his excuse so she tries once more to pull away from him:: I don't believe you. You haven't been yourself all night... even considering what happened...

:  ::the man looks surprised, though he doesn't release Maeve::  I'm sorry...I told you; I'm upset.  ::sighs::  Maybe the girl's haunting me.

MV: ::she raises an eyebrow at him:: And now you believe you're being haunted?

:  ::the man shakes his head, pulling Maeve closer::  Please, just hold me.

MV: ::she tenses and then tries to wiggle out of his arms:: I'm not falling for that again!

:  ::the man glares, kissing Maeve, forcibly::

MV: ::she lets out a panicked whimper as she tries to turn away from him, fighting to get out of his arms::

:  ::the man doesn't let go::  Come on, Maeve; don't be so cold.

MV: Let go of me or I swear I'll burn you!

:  ::the man pulls back, looking hurt::  Maeve...

MV: ::she glares at him:: I already know you aren't my husband. You should have brushed up on your acting skills before you tried to trade places with him! ::she tries her best to hit him but at such a close angle it's rather difficult for one as uncoordinated as her::

:  ::the man steps back, and grabs Maeve, forcing her onto the bed::  Dry up!

MV: ::she tenses, her eyes widening:: If you're suppose to be convincing me you're doing a horrible job! ::her hands get a little warm but at the last minute she backs off, afraid she'll somehow be hurting the real Isaac::

:  ::the man coldly says::  You never thought I might have been faking being good all that time?

MV: ::the color drains from her face and she tries her best to kick him off of her:: Get off of me!

:  ::there's a loud knock on the door, and Josh calls through::  Isaac!?  What's wrong!

MV: ::is still fighting her way out from under the Isaac impersonator; panicked:: Josh!

:  ::there's several thuds on the door before it finally breaks open::

:  ::the man kisses Maeve again::

MV: ::she whimpers again, her hands growing quite warm against his chest where she's trying to push him away at. She's still a little afraid about hurting him with her power and that alone is enough to bring tears to her eyes::

JH:  ::calls out::  Isaac!  What are you doing?

:  ::the man pulls back::  Josh, this is grown-up stuff!  Leave us alone!

MV: It's not him! I mean it is, but something is wrong!  ::she fights to push him the rest of the way off of her::

JH:  ::shakes his head::  Isaac...

:  ::the man scowls::

MV: ::she hits at him, completely livid:: Whatever you've done you'd better undo it! Or I swear I'll roast you! Even if you are occupying his body!

:  ::the man backhands Maeve, trying to knock her away::

MV: ::she wouldn't have expected that from Isaac, and the man gets what he wants as she slides right off the bed and onto the floor::

:  ::the man stands over Maeve, and Josh springs at him, throwing a punch::

MV: ::she tries to scramble away, using the bed as crutch so she can get up quicker::

:  ::Josh's punch lands, and the man staggers back, then cracks his knuckles::  You little brat!  ::jumps at Josh, knocking the kid down::

MV: ::she goes at the man, trying to push him away from Josh:: Don't you touch him!

:  ::the man glares, stepping back from Maeve; he ducks near the mattress::

MV: ::she stands there, glaring back at him:: Who are you? How did you get here?

JH:  ::gets to his feet, shaking his head::  What did you do with Isaac?

:  ::the man quietly says::  I don't know what happened.

MV: ::she shakes her head:: I don't believe you.

:  ::the man raises one hand, like a vow::  I swear, I don't know.

MV: ::she eyes the man for a moment and then looks over at Josh. She doesn't believe it but she's afraid she's wrong::

JH:  ::looks rather troubled::  If...if it's you...we have to find out what's wrong.  Maybe take you to a doctor or something.  ::looks at Maeve; quietly::  I'll spend the night with him; you can have my room.

MV: ::she swallows hard, feeling strangely guilty; softly:: I can't just leave him Josh if that's the case. Besides, maybe the doctor in town will be willing to make a house call?

JH:  ::nods; quietly::  You go fetch him, then.

MV: ::she bites her lip, and looks in-between the two of them; softly:: Are you sure Josh?  ::she shudders, not sure she wants to be left alone with him but in a sense she refuses to be scared of her husband::

JH:  ::nods again::  I'm sure.  ::smiles at his brother::  You'll be all right; we'll help you.

MV: ::she looks back at her husband, worriedly. Her lip is already swollen, and cracked from where he hit her::

JH:  ::looks back at Maeve, frowning::  Go...get the doctor, *please*.  ::he wants help for his brotehr, but, just as strongly, he wants Maeve to be safe::

MV: ::she turns to face him but suddenly cringes, feeling her swollen lip.:: I can't go out there like this Josh. People will know and they'll get the wrong idea...

JH:  ::looks up at Isaac::  If it wasn't you that hit her, heal her.

:  ::the man nods, frowning, and holds out his hand::

MV: ::she looks rather hesitant as she approaches him::

:  ::the man closes his eyes, and heals Maeve with a little effort::

MV: ::she licks her lip and then leans down towards him, looking him in the eye; quietly:: Isaac? ::she looks a tad scared really but she's hopeful that maybe it's all over with::

:  ::the man looks rather worried::  Did I do that, Maeve?

MV: ::confused, she shakes her head:: I..don't... I guess, technically? ::she shrugs::

:  ::the man frowns, shaking his head; quietly::  I'm so sorry.

MV: ::she reaches for his hand:: Are you feeling all right?

:  ::the man quietly says::  Of course not.  Not if I struck you.

MV: ::softly:: You obviously weren't yourself. ::she rubs at her jaw, still a little disturbed by it::
 
JH:  ::quietly::  Maeve...he needs the doctor.

MV: ::she jerks, looking back at Josh and then nods her head:: Right. ::she gets to her feet again, and heads for the door::

:  ::the man who looks like Isaac quietly says::  Be careful, Maeve.

MV; ::forces a weak smile:: Aren't I always? ::she slips out the door::

HR:  ::is walking down the street, on patrol, looking rather tired; he had a long day with Stephanie::

MV: ::she sees Harry and runs over; quickly:: Harry, can I ask a huge favor?

HR:  ::frowns::  Maeve, what are you doing up?

MV: ::she bites her lip, hating to have to lie; quietly:: Isaac isn't feeling well. We need the doctor but I don't want to go to far...

HR:  ::looks rather worried; nods::  Of course.  He's one of our top priorities to protect.  I'll be right back.  ::hurries off::

MV: ::she sighs, thankful that's taken care of, and runs back into the house::
 
:  ::as Maeve goes up the stairs, she hears a brief, sharp cry that cuts off suddenly::
 
 
MV: ::she pauses, going a bit more pale before she runs up the stairs at a double speed:: Josh! ::she stops short just inside the doorway::

JH:  ::is lying on the ground, a knife lodged in his stomach, just below the ribcage; the man who looks like Isaac is staring with wide eyes::

MV: ::her jaw drops open and she rushes to Josh's side; weakly:: Josh? ::she reaches for the knife but pulls back, unsure of what to do. She look up at Isaac; panicking:: Do something!
 
:  ::the man suddenly breaks into a coughing fit::

JH:  ::shudders, his eyes cringed closed::

MV: ::she turns back to Josh; wincing:: Hang on Josh... I have to get something to press on the wound. ::she struggles to her feet and rushes over to the dresser, yanking out the first thing she sees which is one of Isaac's shirts.::
 
JH:  ::isn't moving anymore::

MV: ::sharply:: Josh! ::she reaches for the knife but pauses again, afraid if she removes it she'll cause more damage. She eventually gets to her feet again and turns on Isaac:: You fraud! There's no way Isaac could have done that to him! I don't care if you are in his body you'll never even be half the man he is! Or else prove it and save Josh!

:  ::the man clears his throat and kneels next to Josh; quietly::  I don't know...what happened...just take the knife out...

MV: ::she goes back to him, and takes a deep breath before she pulls out the knife. She doesn't start shaking until she's actually holding the thing in her hand::

JH:  ::still doesn't move::

:  ::the man puts his hands on Josh, but nothing happens.  The man claiming to be Isaac looks terrible, rather near death, himself::

MV: ::snaps:: What is going on! ::she reaches for him:: I swear, if you aren't Isaac.... just please tell me what's happened!

:  ::the man shakes his head, his voice breaking::  He's not supposed to die...I'm not....

MV: ::urgently:: What are you saying?

:  ::the man shakes his head again; softly::  The boy...

HR:  ::shouts from the doorway::  Maeve, where are you?

MV: ::she looks at the man and then turns to shout towards the doorway:: Harry! Hurry up!
 

Quantum Catz: EK: ::decided that speed was more important than him having his powers, so has changed into a large dragon and is flying isaac and the sorcerer back::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  Josh, wake up.

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still isn't moving::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she gets up and runs to the doorway of the room:: Harry! Where's the doctor? Josh is bleeding...

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::comes running, only holding some bandages; he looks very pale::  He left town this evening, and Toby's gone off too.

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she goes another shade of white; she shakes her head:: He's going to need a doctor Harry! Where's Toby? Do you know where he went?

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::quietly::  I sent another guard off for the doctor.  Toby went off with Becky, I think.  All we can do is do our best until then.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::starts to stir just as Eli's coming into land at the closest large clearing to their house and suddenly panics:: Maeve, Josh!  We have to get home *now*!

MaeveOwens: MV: ::shakily takes the bandages from him and goes back to Josh. She winces as she applies pressure to the wound:: I hope he gets here quickly. We don't have much time...

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still feels warm, but he doesn't move at all::

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::clears his throat, looking rather embarrassed::  I can...get the pastor...if you want.

MaeveOwens: LA: ::she startles a bit at Isaac's outburst and turns to look at him; quietly:: Is something wrong?

Quantum Catz: EK: ::grunts, wishing he could tell his brother just to calm down and hold on, tries to fly towards the ground as gently as possibly::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::snaps:: No! We're not going to need one! ::she reaches out brush a lock of hair from Josh's forehead:: Come on kid. Wake up...

Quantum Catz: IS: Something happened! They're hurt!  I know they're hurt!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man posing as Isaac shakes his head; quietly::  Wasn't supposed to....

MaeveOwens: MV: :;she looks up at him, glaring:: Well then why did you do it!? Why are you even here!?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  So he knows what it's like...

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she cringes; quietly:: What have you done with my husband?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man says::  He'll be dead soon.  That body deserves to die anyway.  ::shakes his head::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::nearly falls in his rush to get to the ground once Eli lands and runs for the house::

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::looks rather bewildered at the entire scene::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she gapes at him and a second later she leaves Josh's side, trusting Harry to take over, and she practically leaps at the man:: Where is he!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  He...can't heal, and he'll never...make it in time.

Quantum Catz: EK: ::as soon as everyone's off his body he turns back and looks at Leyla:: You need to go after him, two dragons in one night's too much for me. ::mutters:: Isaac's body or not, if that guy hurt Josh or Maeve you've my permission to rip his throat out.

MaeveOwens: MV: ::desperately:: I don't believe you! Tell me where he is!

MaeveOwens: LA: ::she frowns:: You're not coming? ::she glances towards the house::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head; quietly::  I begged the same thing from your guards here.  ::glares at Harry::

Quantum Catz: EK: We can't leave this guy, I'll bring him - you get after Isaac before he puts himself in danger as well

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she shouts at him, shaking her head:: I don't care what you did! I want my husband back!

MaeveOwens: LA: ::she nods; quietly:: All right. ::she changes into a cat and darts after Isaac::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man doesn't reply::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::reaches the house out of breath but keeps running anyway, hoping that the dream-like image of Josh in his mind really was just a dream; nearly stumbles up the stairs and freezes in the doorway, going pale:: No...

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still doesn't move::

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::has no idea who just came in::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man who looks like Isaac smiles at the man who just came in, though there's a bit of sadness in his look::  Not fun, is it?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::turns to glare at the man; shouts:: Heal him!

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man quietly says::  I tried.  ::puts his hands on Josh, and nothing happens::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::quietly:: We need to get the two of you switched...

MaeveOwens: LA: ::she bounds in behind Isaac and comes to a stop at his feet, ready to attack if the need should arise::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::Drops to his knees beside Josh; touching his chest, desperately wishing none of this was happening:: The sorcerer's unconscious, Eli knocked him out to stop him hurting me

MaeveOwens: MV: ::her eyes widen:: Hurting you? What was he doing?

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::doesn't stir, and it's hard to tell if he's breathing::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::still looking at Josh; softly:: The second spell wasn't as bad as the first ::looks towards his imposter with miserable eyes:: You proved your point, are you happy now?

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man looks steadily at Isaac::  I can't be happy.  And I don't want Josh dead.

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she winces, and looks away:: He's not going to die. Where's Eli and that sorcerer? ::she moves towards the doorway::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::doesn't look like he believes the man:: If you didn't want him dead, you wouldn't have done this to him ::turns back to his brother:: I'm sorry. I'm sorry I can't heal you - you need to hang on

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man coldly says::  You didn't *want* my family dead either, but it happened.

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still doesn't respond; he's bled through the bandages::

Quantum Catz: IS: I didn't *stab* your family

Quantum Catz: IS: ::presses his hand on the wound, hoping the extra pressure will help::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head; quietly::  I don't...know why I can't...::touches Josh again, concentrating; very quietly::  Unless he's already gone.

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she's already out searching for Eli, knowing that they don't have much time::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::it isn't too easy to move the unconscious sorcerer but he's just reaching the house as maeve leaves::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::snaps:: He's still bleeding, he can't be gone! And even if he was... ::pauses, wincing:: You should still be able to do *something*

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she looks very pale in the moon light, and her hand is shaking when she reaches over to grab one of the man's arms, intending to help him:: We've got to hurry. We have to wake this man up...

yarnkittymon: :  ::the man shakes his head; quietly::  I won't fight you...not now.  That's all I *can* do.

Quantum Catz: EK: He's been unconscious the whole way here, i knocked him pretty hard

MaeveOwens: MV: ::desperately:: We'll try water! He's got to come out of it now! Josh is dying and if we don't get them switched.... ::she cringes, unable to finish the sentence::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::pales:: Can't he heal him? Isaac used his power before

MaeveOwens: MV: Somethings wrong. It's not working and I only hope that reversing the spell will fix it...

Quantum Catz: EK: ::softly, coldly:: If it doesn't then that guy's gonna pay ::takes the man to the living room so they can put him down::

MaeveOwens: : ::he groans when he feels himself being set down::

MaeveOwens: MV: They're both going to pay. I don't think there's much time to do this. The guy already said something about Isaac not having enough to time to get here to undo things...

Quantum Catz: EK: ::slaps the sorcerer's face when he groans:: If you don't wake up now you're going to be in for a world of pain later

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::is looking very pale, and no matter how much pressure his brother applies, he doesn't stir::

MaeveOwens: : ::he groans again through the gag in his mouth, and tries to duck away from Eli::

Quantum Catz: IS: Come on, Josh - you're not going to let a little thing like this stop you, are you? It's not time to give up

Quantum Catz: EK: ::grabs the man by the chin to stop him moving:: Awake then?

MaeveOwens: :: ::his eyes blink a few times and then finally open. He stares back coldly at Eli::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still doesn't move::

Quantum Catz: EK: Here's the way it goes - you're going to switch my brother back into his body and, in return, i might not kill you at the end of all this

MaeveOwens: : ::the man looks like he doesn't believe the threat and makes no move to cooperate::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she's pacing, thinking this is taking way too much time::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::without a word, he punches the man in the stomach::

MaeveOwens: :: ::he doubles over, gasping for breath::

Quantum Catz: EK: We could keep going, or...i could get my friend to turn her hand into a claw and rip your stomach open...then, you'd have to help Isaac because he'd be the only one who could help you

MaeveOwens: : ::he cringes, shuddering and finally nods his head::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::pretends to hesitate:: Maybe i should get her to do it anyway, wouldn't want you changing your mind at the last minute and doing some other spell

MaeveOwens: : ::he pales and shakes his head, muttering an incoherent plea::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::unties the man's legs and grabs him by the arm, pulling him towards the stairs:: Let's get on with it then

MaeveOwens: :: ::looking sick, the man doesn't protest at all even though he does have an issue walking.::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she follows closely behind them::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::pushes the sorcerer into the room ahead of him::

yarnkittymon: :  ::the imposter turns a bit paler when he sees the sorcerer, though he holds out his hand, silently::

MaeveOwens: : ::he reaches for the man's arm:: If I do this, I get to walk out of here a free man.

Quantum Catz: IS: ::breathes an audible sigh of relief when he sees the sorcerer awake and does the same, though rather uncertainly::

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::slips around to the door, closing it::  You do this and you might be *able* to walk when we're through with you.

Quantum Catz: EK: We already covered this, ripping your stomach open is still an option, so i'd get on with it if i were you

MaeveOwens: : ::he cringes and then begins to chant::

yarnkittymon: :  ::both of the men feel very strange, and then suddenly everything seems right again, as their perspectives suddenly shift::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::winces at he glances at his younger brother while he waits::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::instantly moves towards Josh to heal him::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::still doesn't move::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she's standing near the door, looking anxious::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::keeps on using his powers:: Come on, Josh, wake up for me

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::cringes::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::finally, a little bit of color returns to his face, and he coughs weakly, still bleeding::

Quantum Catz: IS: ::doesn't stop until he's sure Josh is completely better::

Quantum Catz: EK: ::kneels down beside Josh when he coughs::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she comes forward but stays back, keeping out of the way::

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::his bleeding finally stops, though the boy still looks pale and ill, even when his eyes come open--when he sees Isaac, he tries to crawl backwards, away from him, yelling::  Don't you touch Maeve!

Quantum Catz: EK: ::puts his hand on his brother's arm:: It's okay, it's really Isaac

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she cringes and kneels down beside Josh. She hasn't quite looked at Isaac yet; softly:: It's over now. Are you feeling okay?

Quantum Catz: IS: ::pales at Josh's words and looks towards Maeve:: You're not hurt, are you?

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she glances quickly at Isaac and then down at the floor. She shakes her head:: I'm fine. I wasn't even here when- ::she cringes:: I'm sorry Josh I shouldn't have left.

yarnkittymon: JH:  ::looks at Maeve, very worried; softly::  Are you all right?

yarnkittymon: HR:  ::pulls out his handcuffs, debating who to get, and who needs tied::

MaeveOwens: MV: ::she nods:: I'm fine. I was more worried about you?

MaeveOwens: : ::he turns to try to get out the door