Beth's In Nomine IOU 23: Shopping!

You say "So, is Mallory going to drag Jolie back over to Blaine's room to go Mallcrawling?"

Mallory says "Certainly possible."

You say "And is Blaine up for this?"

Hamilton says "Sure."

<<Scene Start>>

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Mallory and Jolie have left Tarot's office.The secretary, on the phone, waves a slip of paper with seven numerals scrawled on it, and "Deb" above that."

<<OOC>> Hamilton quirks an eyebrow....

Mallory plucks the slip of paper from 'Deb's' hand, and nods. "We'll talk."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Is the secretary after Mal?"

<<OOC>> arcangel grins.

Mallory leads Jolie out the door, and back towards Monty Hall. As he walks, he says, "Do you have any other questions at the moment?"

<<OOC>> Mallory is being hunted for posing and the like.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "That lusty wench secretary... ;>"

<<OOC>> Tarot hugs people, snickers, and watches.

Jolie clasps her hands in front of her. "I don't know, m'-Mallory. So much is new, I hardly know where to start _thinking_ of questions."

Mallory nods.

Mallory says "I suggest you start with current fashions. You might ask Mademoiselle Blaine. She's more likely to be up to date than I am."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Heading back to pick up Blaine before Tarot's class, I presume?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Yup. Mall run."

<<OOC>> Hamilton thinks Blaine would be a better choice for fashion selection than, oh, her dear roomie... ;>

Jolie looks around at the few other students who are dragging themselves around. "Thank you, Mallory. The clothing is... very strange."

Mallory says "I tend to agree."

Mallory says "Very boring, too, I'd add."

Mallory says "Everyone appears to be going to a funeral. I'm extremely disappointed in Andre's servitors. If nothing else, they used to be good at promoting interesting fashions."

Jolie nods. "Hardly any flowing skirts, or scarves, or sleeves..."

Jolie looks wistful as she speaks of clothing.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Andre's servitors have obviously been outwitted by Kobal's in fashion lately, with the return of the 70s and the jeans-falling-off-your-hips-and-showing-your-crack fashions of late."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "So it would seem."

<<OOC>> arcangel smites bell bottoms.

Mallory trudges the thirteen floors up to Blaine's floor.

Jolie follows, dutifully.

In Blaine's room, Raven is even more comatose than before, with a pillow half-dragged over her face. Her spider pokes hopefully at the wall of its container.

<<OOC>> Hamilton will have gotten ready, since they had a date.

Mallory knocks lightly on the door. Strangely enough, thirteen flights of stairs, and he's not even winded.

Jolie is likewise breathing evenly. She waits patiently behind Mallory.

Hamilton swiftly opens the door, on the off-chance that the knocking would otherwise wake Raven.

Mallory nods, which somehow comes across as a bow.

Raven says, "*snogggrzt*"

Mallory says "Apres vous, Mademoiselle."

Jolie nods to Blaine silently.

"Good morning," Blaine whispers. "I'll be right out."

Hamilton grabs her purse, which matches her outfit, and heads out the door, shutting it quietly behind.

Mallory ponders Blaine for a moment, then sighs, and heads for the elevator.

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins

Jolie follows, her green eyes wide. She watches the button be pressed with great intentness.

Hamilton is sizing Jolie up, discreetly, while waiting for the elevator.

Mallory says "I hope you're feeling more awake, Mademoiselle. If not, I am prepared to supply us with coffee."

Jolie is quiet, drop-dead gorgeous, and dressed ecclectically.

After a short pause while the elevator rumbles up to the 13th floor, the doors slide open like a black-gummed maw.

<<OOC>> Tarot | Feed me, Seymour.

Hamilton grins. "I'll admit to being a bit more a night person," she says as she steps into the elevator. "Though school forces the schedule a bit."

Jolie follows Mallory into the elevator, looking around with a tiny line of perplexity between her fine, thin, inky brows.

Hamilton says "I've tried to adjust."

Mallory smiles. "I understand, although I myself tend to be up early."

<<OOC>> Mellor thought you wrote 'dressed ecclesiastically' for a moment there, and wondered abotu Mal and nuns ;)

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins

<<OOC>> Mallory's player was raised Catholic. Do not inquire too closely about nuns.

<<OOC>> arcangel eeps.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Don't even ask what girls in catholic school uniforms do to my libido."

<<OOC>> Mellor went to... uh.. never mind.

Mallory presses the 'L' button with one finger, and then appears to brace himself slightly against the corner of the elevator.

Hamilton has noted Mal's tenseness in elevators before, so doesn't look too perplexed at this. She is watching Jolie.

The elevator closes its doors with almost palpable satisfaction and the tiny room begins to rumble downward. Jolie makes a tiny squeaking noise and clutches at Mallory's arm.

Mallory attempts to look somewhat comforting. "It will be over soon."

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 3 6 CHECK: 1.

Mallory winds up not looking that comforting--but at least he isn't straight-out panicked.

The elevator makes a *ping* noise and shudders at every floor. Jolie doesn't crawl into Mallory's arms, or scream, but does look wild-eyed.

Hamilton says "The elevators in IOU dorms do tend to make one a bit nervous."

*ping*shudder* *ping*shudder* *ping*shudder*

Hamilton considers scaring them with the story of the time her father was stuck in one for a couple of hours...

...but concludes that would be too cruel, though interesting.

Mallory considers summoning Baal and offering Blain to him if the General Prince will take Vapula by the ears and make him pay for this indignity.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Alas, Blaine does not really seem the sort that the Lord General would find interesting."

<<OOC>> Hamilton quirks an eyebrow. "Nownow! You wouldn't want Raven picking out Jolie's clothes!"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Now, if she were only a scantily clad barbarian warrior princess..."

Eventually, after an eternity of terror, the elevator reaches the bottom. After about three seconds, during which it is patently considering how to swallow, the elevator finally opens its jaws, uh, doors again.

Jolie darts out instantly.

Mallory musters all of its will, and lets the ladies out first.

<<OOC>> Hamilton wonders if these are simple mechanical elevators or some other sort, here...

Hamilton smiles at Mal's gentlemanlyness in face of obvious phobia and steps out quickly to allow him to exit quickly as well.

Jolie is across the hall from the elevator door, her back pressed against a wall.

Mallory skips out of the elevator almost on Blaine's heels.

Hamilton notes this with interest. She must be from some *very* remote part of France if she's never dealt with elevators.

Mallory mutters something like, "And people wonder why I prefer to walk..."

The elevator doors slide shut, obviously sorry to have reliquished the meal.

Hamilton leads the two out of the building and across the campus to where the bus to the mall stops.

Jolie clings to Mallory's arm -- not as desperately as in the elevator -- as they walk.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "...and hopes a bus ride won't be *too* terrifying for Jolie...."

Several students seem to have set up a blockade in front of the bus-stop -- one that appears to be intended to block the bus from going on without them.

Mallory waits patiently for the bus. "I take it you'd prefer your coffee at the mall?"

Hamilton nods. Very efficient.

Hamilton says "If that would be okay. I rather enjoy people-watching."

Mallory says "Perfectly fine. Jolie?"

Jolie blinks. "Uh, yes. That is fine."

Mallory checks money again. Everything here costs money. He murmers to Blaine, "I will, of course, be paying for Jolie's wardrobe, but perhaps we should work out an upper limit on what is to be spent."

Hamilton says "There's a nice little cafe with a view of the mall concourse I found last time I was there."

Mallory says "Good idea."

Hamilton nods to Mal. "Of course. A budget is always a good thing to stay within."

Mallory fiddles with the various bills and other things he has with him, counting up numbers.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "So how much is Mal carrying, including any credit cards?"

Hamilton then turns to Jolie. "While we're having coffee, I can point out some different styles on the people who go by."

Jolie nods to Blaine. After a pause, she murmurs, "Thank you."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Probably about $70, and a MasterCard that was apparently issued by a bank with a strange logo."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Ah. Why do I have the sinking feeling that Mal's going to learn 1) what the limit on this card is and 2) the meaning of Credit Card Debt Hell?"

<<OOC>> arcangel smirks.

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "First Bank of Mammon?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "And, possibly, the meaning of 'part-time job'?"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "YOu can always sell her sexual favours to get more money, so don't worry about it..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "He and she can pose for Deb!"

<<OOC>> arcangel giggles muchly.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Now there's a thought."

<<OOC>> Lucas says "Mallory, Anti-Christ, Porn Star"

<<OOC>> arcangel giggles.

<<OOC>> Mellor says "(I never lose sleep about spending other people's money...)"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "So is the bus here yet?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "ahem."

The bus comes into view around the corner, tipping slightly. It stabilizes and comes barreling down toward the blockade. Jolie makes a tiny whimpering noise and clutches at the back of Mallory's shirt. The bus screeeeeeeeeches to a halt bare inches from the leading sawhorse of the blockade. The girl sitting on the sawhorse gets off and moves the sawhorse to one side while the other half-dozen students get onto the bus, flipping their IDs casually at the driver.

The driver would appear to be a student, from her age. On the seat immediately behind her is a grizzled, older guy who seems to be making some sort of instructor-style commentary.

Hamilton boards the bus and shows her ID, then wonders if Jolie has one.

Hamilton moves forward to allow the others to board and looks for a seat near the front, where there's less likelihood of getting bus-sick.

Mallory hops onto the bus, flashes his ID, and says to the driver, "My friend just enrolled today. She's having the usual difficulty with papers, but I assure you, she's a student."

<<OOC>> Mallory will resist the Jedi Mind Tricks at least at first.

Jolie stays clinging to the back of Mallory's shirt.

The bus driver looks at the instructor. The instructor squints at Jolie (who cringes). "All right. Lemme see your ID again, so's I know who to come knocking for if we never see her with an ID?"

Mallory shows his ID. "Mallory Bernlack, and Jolie Dubois."

<<OOC>> Hamilton doesn't think that's gonna work...

The instructor squints at the ID, then shows it to the driver. "Write that down."

Mallory coaxes Jolie back to where Blaine is sitting.

The driver does so, and then hands the card back to Mallory with a cheerful grin.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Would Aimee like to be catching the bus to the Mall?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton waves.

<<OOC>> Hamilton just hopes DANNY isn't catching the bus to the mall...

<<OOC>> arcangel snickers.

<<OOC>> Aimee says "Danny is a cutie, but I could lay him on his backside. He'd like that too much, though."

<<OOC>> Tarot is a tutor, thank God, so can avoid the bus.

<<OOC>> Mellor needs to collect some photos from you sometime (after you've been given then, obviously)

<<OOC>> Aimee will be on that bus or she'll be raising heck! :)

<<OOC>> Danny waggles his eyebrows at Aimee.

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins. Then imagines him stepping on the bus, spotting that sorceror Jude told him about and dragging her off as bait to get to Leo.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Look, Aimee! A bus to the Mall! Quick, run and catch it!"

Aimee eyes the bus closely for a second, then her watch. Her eyes goes up again and she begins to move. Faster. Faster. Her eyes promise immeasurable doom and suffering for those who would delay her.

<<OOC>> Aimee says "Dark eyes :"

Students scatter out of Aimee's way after a bare glance at her determined form!

The bus driver, a young woman, is starting to close the door when she notices Aimee's intent, arrow-straight dash. She pauses, her jaw dropping, to watch Aimee run for the bus.

Aimee skids to a stop, hops on the bus, giving the driver an approving nod "Thanks." and quickly scanning for available seating.

Weakly, the bus driver says, "Uh, ID please?"

From afar, Aimee is the cool, colleced one.

Aimee gives a small sigh of weariness and disapproval, before fishing out her ID from its usual hiding spot in her backpack and presenting it with a flashy smile.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Aimee can see that there is an older, grizzled instructor guy in the seat immediately behind the driver. On the other side, at the front, is a small, waifish young woman, and a drop dead lovely pair with her. One is obviously female, with midnight black hair sifting over her T-shirt. The other is an elegant blond... And... Int roll?"

The driver looks at the ID and nods, then starts closing the bus doors.

<<OOC>> Aimee says "Eek! An int roll!"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Muwhahaha."

<<GAME>> Aimee rolls the d666 and gets 2 6 CHECK: 2.

<<OOC>> Aimee coughs "Hell" *cough* "no."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Three young ladies. Clearly."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Long hair, slender. Not very buxom, but still -- quite attractive young lady."

There's a scattering of students in the rest of the bus.

Aimee gives everyone a real quick look-over as she makes her way to a seat in the middle of the bus, sitting sideways with her back to the window, so she can keep a close eye on all parts of the bus.

<<OOC>> Tarot says "And at the back, a handsome Malakite of Judgement in shirt and slacks."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Nononono."

<<OOC>> arcangel thinks Danny is in Judgment Therapy after last night.

<<OOC>> Aimee says "Poor Danny!"

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Heh."

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins.

The bus rumbles into motion, pulling away from the curb and running over a sandbag from the barricade that didn't get pulled far enough away.

Hamilton will pull out a small notepad and pen and start a list of what Jolie needs, starting with shoes and socks...

Mallory murmurs to Jolie, "Remember, bland detatchment."

Mallory works on bland detachment himself. This is not anywhere near as nice, or as dignified, as Madame di Ordo's automobile.

Jolie takes a deep breath and sits back in her chair, eyes closed, her hands white-knuckled clasped in her lap.

Fortunately, it's a pretty straight shot to the Mall, and it's early enough that not _too_ many other cars are out to get run over. Soon enough, the bus is pulling up (with a bit more care than it had on campus) in front of . . . the Mall.

Mallory holds one of Jolie's hands. Almost gallantly.

Aimee relaxes her guard slightly, taking time to stretch a bit before standing from her seat, waiting for others to pass before she rises.

Jolie holds Mallory's hand back.

The Mall is a tall pyramid. Very tall. Not quite so tall as Monty Hall, but certainly wider. Jolie gapes out the window at it.

Mallory looks moderately impressed. What it lacks in architectural grace it certainly makes up for in size.

Once all have debarked, and a few people climbed onto the bus, it rumbles away, leaving the small group looking at the impressive glass and chrome doors of The Mall.

Aimee isn't impressed too long, having been here before and having more important things to do. She marches towarsd the pyramid, listening carefully to the sounds around her.

Mallory lets Mademoiselle Blaine lead the way.

There are students chattering, including a pair who seem to be discussing something about armor, weapons, and whether you can actually get up in plate mail or not.

Aimee decides that the students discussing weapons and such are much moer interesting than paranoia. She directs her concentration towards such a group and tries not to move out of range of hearing.

Mallory peers at the students. Plate mail? Good lord, they're thinking about using *plate mail*? Rank amaters.

Mallory says "So, Mademoiselle Blaine, where would you suggest we start? Keeping in mind that Jolie will require nearly everything."

The students seem to be discussing things like, "Strength 10 can't _move_ in plate!" and "No, really, I read it on the web -- armor was balanced a lot better! Besides, light mail is the way to go." and "No way, man. My DM'd never let me do that."

Hamilton leads the way for Mal and Jolie, heading for the cafe she knows of.

Another student, not one of the pair, sniffs. "That dee and dee stuf is all Satanism!" She turns and flounces off.

Mallory looks tempted to inform them that a skilled fencer with a rapier can kill a man in plate and a longsword before that worthy can so much as wind up for his swing.

Mallory is saved by Blaine.

Mallory follows along, keeping Jolie in hand, lest she wander off.

Aimee sighs softly at her misunderstanding of what is said and manages a snicker, before losing interes t and becoming paranoid again.

The Mall cafe is easily found, not having moved since the last time Blaine was there. Jolie rubbernecks at the indoor plants, the huge interior, all the stores...

<<OOC>> arcangel eyes her cat, who only wants to eat from her _hand._

<<OOC>> Aimee says "Aww, that's so cute."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Hard to type, though, when bent over, with one hand full of cat food."

Aimee considers the mall as she enters its lovely interior. Sporting goods stores are her first stop on any such trip. Then there's that little matter of a job...

There's a sporting goods store just across from this nice little corner cafe. It has hunting crossbows, fencing gear, other archery gear, as well as climbing equipment, flares, and more mundane jogging clothes.

Mellor has connected.

Aimee eyes the fencing and archery gear closely, considering price and income and where she'd put the stuff.

The fencing and archery gear is reasonably priced -- for such things. Which means that Aimee will have to save up her money carefully. Good thing she doesn't eat...

On the way to the cafe, Jolie whispers to Mallory, "How does it stay _up_??"

Aimee murmurs "Thank God" as she realizes her lack of a grocery bill is suddenly a big big advantage. She makes a few mental notes concerning these things and begins to make her way out.

Mallory points to a few support beams and the like. "It's well disguised."

Aimee pages: Have I gotten that job yet? :)

You paged Aimee with 'Not yet -- Campus Security has been being coy.'.

You paged Aimee with 'You may be here to find out about the Mall Security Health Plan. O:> Or just hang out.'.

From afar, Aimee shakes her fist at them "They're trying to wear me down with time."

Long distance to Aimee: arcangel nods! "Or they're trying to make you seek them out, or something silly like that."

Mallory lets Blaine pick her spot, and gets coffee for everyone. Jolie gets another mocha, he tries a cappuccino, and Blaine gets whatever she likes.

From afar, Aimee will get to them later...

<<OOC>> Aimee hugs everyone and must disappear.. :(

<<OOC>> arcangel snugs Aimee, who vanishes into the sporting goods store.

<<OOC>> Aimee will be back later!

<<OOC>> The sporting goods store goes *gulp*.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Blaine, if you'll give my your IP, I might be able to help a bit."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Or at least aid in diagnosis."

<<OOC>> Hamilton called and told Mike about it. Mentioned it was probably beyond his control, though.

<<OOC>> Mellor awws and wanted to see Mal do the Jedi mind trick on a network

<<OOC>> Mallory grins at Mellor.

<<OOC>> Tarot laughs.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Okay, I'm on from io.com. We'll see if that changes anything."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Ping!"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Pong."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Peep?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Yay!"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Good. Let us continue."

Mallory lets Blaine pick her spot, and gets coffee for everyone. Jolie gets another mocha, he tries a cappuccino, and Blaine gets whatever she likes.

Hamilton gets coffee, black.

Hamilton shows the list she's made to Mal and Jolie.

Mallory looks aid said list, but lets Jolie take the lead. They are, after all, her clothes.

Jolie looks at the list, reading through it quickly.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Are undergarments on the list?"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "can she read English?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Apparently, though her lips move."

The list is shoes-- casual, dress; socks; hose; underthings?; jeans, casual slacks, dress or skirt?, blouses, jacket

Jolie says, "Are, ah, smallclothes the same as underthings?"

Hamilton considers. Seems to think that's a British-ism for underthings and nods. "Yes."

Jolie smiles, which lights up her entire face. "Then yes, this looks -- nice. Very nice."

Hamilton considers Jolie. "We might also want to get some toiletries. I'm assuming all that was lost in your... er... accident?"

Jolie nods, her face sliding to a bit of blankness. She sips her coffee.

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Also pens and notebooks to take notes. ;)"

Hamilton adds shampoo, soap, razor, deoderant, toothbrush, toothpaste and feminine supplies to the list.

Mallory sips his cappuccino.

Jolie blinks at all these, looking curious.

<<OOC>> Hamilton is nothing if not efficient.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Hey, they need the help..."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "And then some."

<<OOC>> Mellor smirks

Hamilton sees Jolie's apparent confusion and goes over the list, quietly-- "Hair cleaning, body cleaning, body hair removal, ummm... body odor suppressor, teeth cleaning, and... things for your time of month. Oh, yes!" Blaine adds hairbrush and comb to the list.

Jolie blinks. "Oh. Ah, right. Of course." She considers her fingernails, then waggles them. "And something if these break?"

Hamilton adds 'manicure set' to the list... and 'make-up'

Jolie watches this in fascination. Especially the pen that Blaine is writing with.

Hamilton says "You're enrolling, right? You'll need some school supplies-- paper and pens and pencils and such. You can get them a bit cheaper at some places here."

Jolie nods. "Oh. Right. I should have things to write with. And, um, a type-writer? Can those be gotten?"

Mallory says "And perhaps one of these satchels in which everything is carried."

Mallory points out a backpack.

Hamilton flips the page and writes on the back 'paper, pens, pencils, notebooks, typewriter, typing paper, backpack'.

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Laptop, cellphone, washing machine..."

Mallory says "If there is not time for all of these, we can return later. I think we should concentrate on proper attire first."

Hamilton nods. "Of course."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Trust the fae to be a clothes horse."

<<OOC>> Hamilton is rather getting him into debt, eh?

Jolie sips her coffee quietly, letting Mallory decide what gets bought first.

Mallory says "I believe I can find school supplies while you two examine clothing where my presence would be inappropriate, as well."

<<OOC>> arcangel imagines Mallory loose in the Mall on his own. Heh heh heh.

Hamilton finishes her coffee, slowly, pointing out a few different styles here and there, discreetly. She nods to a girl in an orange-and-yellow striped top with butterfly embroidered, flair jeans and platform sandals. "If you're looking for something a bit more... colourful, there is that style there. Somewhat of a retro to the 70s thing." Blaine rolls her eyes. "I guess it's better than goth, though."

<<OOC>> Tarot just points Jolie to the nearest New Age store with flowing draperies, shawls, velvet skirts, and silk blouses.

Jolie looks briefly horrified. "Uh... I'd rather not..."

Mallory decides to hold his tongue about styles. If whatever Jolie picks is unbearable, he'll intervene. Otherwise, it wouldn't do to dictate. not in public.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Describe her to me again"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Dark hair, green eyes?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "A little shorter than Mallory, who is a little on the slight side for a guy. Paleish skin (though not so horribly pale as Raven tries for), bright green eyes. Very fine, dark dark black hair with just a little wave to it."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Definitely more curvacious than Mallory, of coure... O;>"

<<OOC>> Mallory snorts.

<<OOC>> Mellor says "I dunno. He's quite curvy.. *duck*"

Hamilton thinks Jolie would look stunning in a green silk shirt...

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Blaine will note that Jolie seems to go in for flowing things that show off the body once moment and conceal it the next."

Hamilton says "All right, let's start with one of the discount stores for the basics-- socks, underwear, and so on. They'll be cheaper and just as good of quality.""

<<OOC>> Hamilton is thinking some place like Target or Walmart.

Jolie drinks up the rest of her coffee.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "A Target-style store can be found in the Mall, if you roam it long enough. O:>"

Mallory nods. "If you'll point me to the school supplies, I'll purchase those."

Hamilton says "For shoes, I would highly recommend an actual shoe store, though it won't hurt to glance at the discount store's selection."

Hamilton turns and points to the escalator. "Floor 18 has an Office Depot. Or maybe it's an Office Warehouse... or Staples... One of those things."

Hamilton says "They all have red signs and office furniture in their windows, so I never quite noted which it was."

<<OOC>> arcangel notes that there is, in the middle of the Mall, a glass-sided elevator which moves up and down smoothly.

<<OOC>> Hamilton is assuming she found a couple of places in her last visit... ;>

Mallory says "All right. I will meet you both back here in...an hour, say? I would like to see what you purchase once you are finished with the underthings."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Well, yeah, but I wanna see Mal on an escalator."

Hamilton nods. "Ah hour will do."

Jolie pauses, then bites her lip. She murmurs to Mallory, "I have no silver as of yet."

Mallory says "Ah, right."

Mallory ponders prices. "I suppose I will use the card for everything"

Mallory says "Perhaps I had best accompany you, then."

Mallory does not wish to deplete his supply of ready cash overmuch.

From afar, To Tarot, arcangel: Mellor imagines Mallory walking into a bra shop and the assistant rushing over and saying 'I have just the thing to help you make the most of your cleavage' ;)

Long distance to Mellor: arcangel cracks up.

From afar, Tarot giggles.

Long distance to Tarot: arcangel cracked up at the cleavage thing...

Jolie looks down into her nearly-empty coffee cup.

Hamilton notes the odd choice of words for money....

Mallory says "Very well, we have our plan. Let us follow it."

Mallory says "Please, show the way, Mademoiselle."

Jolie drinks the last of her coffee, giving every evidence of savoring it like fine wine.

Hamilton stands and leads the way toward the center of the mall, keeping her eye open for shoe stores and the like and watching Jolie's reactions to store displays.

Mallory follows along, having long ago finished his coffee.

A knife shop, with a display of a giant swiss army knife that opens and closes its blades, attracts Jolie's attention, and she gapes at it for a moment before forcably dragging her gaze from it and continuing. Her expression is probably trying for bland, but looks a bit more fixed. The first clothing store that shows evening dresses has her all but pressing her nose against the glass, though.

The jewelry store next door has a display of diamond rings, which likewise attract Jolie's attention, like an overwrought magpie.

Mallory watches, with a certain amount of amusement.

Hamilton makes mental notes. Obviously, evening dresses and jewelry is not first priority, but styles are noted.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "For instance, that Jolie was probably not too terribly interested in the black evening dresses that seem so popular nowadays..."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Color and flowing styles. Mist-pale grays, though, too..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "She probably likes Blaine's preference for wearing pale grey, then..."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Uh-huh!"

The group makes their way to the escalator, to head up a level, with Jolie alternately trying to be calm and darting from store display to store display. Once she sees the moving stairs, she blinks and hangs back a little.

Mallory murmurs to Jolie, "If circumstances warrant, you shall have one of these dresses. But first things first."

Mallory peers at the stairs, mutters something, and carefully steps onto them, leading Jolie along, if necessary.

Jolie is drawn onto the moving stairs.

The escalator carries them up smoothly, without a shudder or mysterious ping whatsoever.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Mallory would probably get the distinct impression that Blaine couldn't actually handle the stairs all the way to her room."

Hamilton steps off and checks the stor listing for this level.

Mallory walks off the stairs neatly enough.

Mallory decides that he likes the grace of moving without moving. Imagine that.

There is, indeed, a Target-style store on this level.

Jolie follows, gracefully enough, but casting little startled looks at the escalator.

<<OOC>> Jolie . o O (How many people do they have under that, making the stairs move?"

Hamilton leads the way to Target-style store.

Mallory is moderately astonished at all the stuff, although his astonishment, as ever, is undercut by the lack of style and flair in most of it. He's steadily becoming convinced that this modern world is fully of bland wonders.

Jolie is soon back to darting about. She pauses by a pushcart full of blown-glass figurines, including a selection of little hanging stylized fairies.

Mallory gives Jolie a $20 bill. "Here. An advance on your library wages. You may pay me back."

Mallory says "For small, inexpensive things you might like to by."

Jolie takes it and eyes it curiously. "Thank you, Mallory." She looks hopefully at the pushcart's salesperson.

Hamilton smiles and leads the way to the sewing section, where she picks up a measuring tape and pays for it at the counter there (I hope)

Jolie follows along after getting one of the little glass faries.

Indeed, Blaine can get measuring tape.

Mallory has a bad feeling that Jolie may turn out to be one of those females constantly surrounded by small items of negligible value but which take up space and look 'pretty'.

Hamilton also picks up a pattern for a full outift that has measurements and sizing chart on the back and leads Jolie to the changing rooms, where she can take measurements in privacy.

Jolie follows along, clutching her carefully-wrapped glass fairy.

Mallory watches Blaine and Jolie disappear into the changing area (and almost follows them, until he realizes what he's about to do).

Mallory looks around to see if anyone noticed, and then goes to look 'round the store.

Hamilton, once there, takes measurements and jots down the proper sizes for Jolie. "We'll have to figure out your proper shoe size in the shoe department. They usually have a size guide there somewhere."

No one seems to have noticed -- or at least, not been shocked by it. The rest of the store has fabrics, embroidery flosses, thread, buttons, scissors, knick knacks, oddly-shaped things which are labled "Sewing Machines On Sale"...

Jolie lets herself be measured, looking mild and curious. She does try to keep hold of her little fairy, though.

Mallory looks through the fabrics. He's used to selecting them for his own clothing, and is wondering what's available these days.

Mallory mostly comes away looking impressed with the tight weaves and fabric quality, and disgusted with the patterns.

In the store proper, Mallory can find cottons, linins, polyesters, spandex, satiny things, fake fur in a horrible shade of pink (as well as brown, white, black, zebra, and leopard), and something that feels a bit like leather.

On one of the patterns' packets, however, there is a female dressed in skin-tight black, including a hood with little pointy ears.

In the dressing room, Jolie is quiet and agreeable.

<<OOC>> Hamilton suspects there are lots of cool, colourful fabrics, which are invariably displayed made into little girls' dresses and quilts.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "and craftsy things."

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Really? Here they almost always display them as unbelievably gorgeous evening dress type of things -- draped over models."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "People in the US don't make their own clothes."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Or they usually don't."

<<OOC>> Mellor says "If that was true, why have fabric shops?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Actually, lots of people make their own clothes. They just don't make a lot of the basic things, which are cheaper mass-produced than you can make them yourself."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Or you have to make stuff for the kid's school play."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "The quadruple layer of denim in the seams of jeans, for instance, is just impossible for your average sweing machine to handle."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Anyhow..."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Hamilton can find that Jolie is quite well proportioned. And drop-dead lovely, of course. O:>"

After a goodly amount of time, Blaine and Jolie emerge, having determined Jolie's pants, dress, shirt and bra sizes.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Hah. RP it. };;;>"

<<OOC>> arcangel snorts.

<<OOC>> arcangel threatens Mallory with the Ranma1/2 Discord.

<<OOC>> Mallory looks unafraid.

<<OOC>> Mellor thinks Mal should spend all his money on fabrics!

Mallory has, by this time, identified the five or ten fabrics and patterns that he actually likes.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "most of which are probably craft or upholstery fabrics..."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Probably."

A saleslady comes over to Mallory about the time Blaine and Jolie have emerged, and asks, "See anything you like, dear?"

Mallory looks up. "Ah. Merely perusing while waiting for my companions. There they are. Thank you."

The saleslady smiles and heads back to her counter.

Hamilton tells Mal the sizes they're needing and heads for the appropriate clothes aisle-- underthings first.

Mallory follows along, not suspecting what's about to happen.

Jolie tags along, holding her fairy, which seems to keep her from boggling _as_ much.

<<OOC>> Hamilton is sure Jolie will LOVE some of the underthings-- paisley satin underwear and bra sets, etc.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Little hearts!"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "You'll have to show her how to do them up :)"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "And the sleepwear! Woohoo!"

Into the store, a right turn, a left, a short-cut through the purses... And undergarments! On every side, panties and bras are displayed brazenly, with pictures of female hips and chests demonstrating how they are to be worn.

Hamilton says "Do you prefer front-closing or back-closing bras?""

Jolie looks at a table which has silky thongs on sale, $10 for two. "Um. I, ah, don't know."

Hamilton leads Jolie to a display that has packages of 6 panties, in various styles. "You'll probably want a package or two for everyday wear, and then a couple of... fancier pairs for special occasions," she suggests.

Jolie's eyes are big. "Oh... yes. Definitely." She hesitantly looks at the various styles of panties.

Hamilton says "Cotton or nylon? And do you like full briefs, high-cuts or bikini?"

Mallory is looking around, eyes big.

Jolie says, "Um -- the silky ones are nice."

Hamilton selects the nylon pairs in the three different styles, in Jolie's size and holds them out. "Which style?"

There are tables of bras, panties, and racks and racks. Plain white, pale peach, black, white with little burgundy spots... Silky, cottony...

Jolie finally picks the high-cuts. "Those are nice."

Mallory thinks these people may have gone overboard with variety.

A roving saleswoman comes by and asks Mallory, "Are you looking for anything specific?"

Mallory blinks. "Ah, I am waiting for my friends, thank you."

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 6 3 CHECK: 2.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Not panicking not panicking..."

<<OOC>> arcangel chuckles.

<<OOC>> Mallory has not been shown the 'guy seats', obviously. The place where the guys shopping with women are put to wait.

A roving saleswoman says, "Ah. But do remember, we've got a sale on. Ten percent off everything with a red sticker."

Hamilton sticks a couple packages, in fancy colours, into the cart.

With that, the roving saleswoman roves off.

Mallory walks up to Jolie and Blaine and says, with all the dignity he can muster, "I am told that there is a ten percent sale on everything with a red sticker."

Jolie is looking at the bras, with apparent fascination. "Some of these seem too attractive to wear under anything," she murmurs, mostly to herself.

Hamilton nods. "I'll keep my eye out."

Mallory says "Are you finding what you need, Jolie?"

Jolie blinks up. "Oh! Oh, yes, Mallory. I think so." Her eyes shine.

Hamilton nods to Jolie. "Well, the idea is that that special someone gets to see them."

Jolie looks enlightened. "Oooohhhhhhhh!"

Hamilton says "And no one else.""

Jolie giggles.

Mallory says "Again, I must thank you, Mademoiselle. I am afraid I would be unhelpful to Jolie in," his eyes trail around the assorted underwear, "these matters.""

Hamilton says "You'll probably want a couple of plain bras for everyday wear and then maybe a couple of fancier ones. Maybe those underwear and bra sets over there."

There are, beneath Mallory's eyes, skimpy things that seem a small triangle of material and some thread for straps.

Jolie moves over to the sets. "Oh, my." She plucks out a pale gray set. "This is useful."

Mallory shakes his head. Perhaps this place is a well disguised Tether of Lust. Or at least one of their shopping areas.

Hamilton smiles at Mallory. "It's okay to like them, you know," she whispers. "That's what they're made for."

Mallory chuckles softly. "I tend to prefer them after the woman's already chosen to wear them, you see. I don't give them as gifts, as a rule."

Mallory motions to one of the six packs, "Nor do I usually enounter them in 'day to day' wear."

Jolie is carefully picking out a plain gray set of undies and bra, and a black spandex sports-bra. She then goes looking for the nylon undies.

(Shopping is, apparently, easy to pick up.)

Mallory says "As opposed to special occasions."

Mallory appears to have the opinion of himself as a 'special occasion' sort.

Hamilton grins. "Well, I'm sure any girls you've... ah... gotten to see wearing them for you selected the special occasion ones."

Mallory smiles back. "As a rule, yes. Although the variety of styles here is impressive. And this is the 'discount' place, you mentioned."

You paged Hamilton with 'Take him to Fredricks of Hollywood or Victoria's Secret someday... O;>'.

Hamilton says "Yes. It means they carry a lot of stuff, and since they order in such large quantities, they're given a discount."

Hamilton says "However... if you *really* want to see variety..."

Jolie comes back with a few more bras. "The ones with the red dots are better?" she asks, pointing to a red sticker that reads "10%".

Hamilton nods. "They take ten percent off the price."

<<OOC>> Tarot says "But if they're cheaper, then they're not as good quality, clearly!"

Jolie shakes her head enigmatically, contemplating the bras she has. "They don't seem any worse than the others." She shows the ones she has to Blaine. "This is the right size?"

Hamilton says "Though, if the price is higher than a non-discounted item, it may not actually be cheaper."

Hamilton checks the size and nods. "Yes. That's the right size. They're probably discounted because they only have a few left and wanted to make room for other things, rather than because they're of a worst quality."

Jolie just looks a tad round-eyed. "Oh."

Hamilton considers economics lectures, but concludes it'd take too long.

Jolie contemplates the selection of undergarments she has. "Will this be enough?"

Hamilton says "Quality is only one element of price."

<<OOC>> Hamilton suspects she had MORE than enough... ;>

<<OOC>> arcangel grins. Yup. Though not utterly overboard.

Hamilton nods. "That'll do you for a while."

Mallory eyes some of the prices, and does some quick math in his head, comparing it with the $70 he has on him.

Mallory pales a bit.

Jolie smiles at the selection.

Hamilton says "Socks and panyhose next.""

Mallory hopes that plastic card has more credit attached to it than he expects.

Jolie follows Blaine's lead, seeming almost bouncy.

Mallory seems rather less bouncy. One gets the feeling he'll be relieved when this is all over.

As they head down the aisle, to socks and hose, they pass some lacy, frothy, translucent shirts -- or maybe they're short dresses...

Hamilton, as she starts to head out of the section, pauses at the 10% off rack and picks out a bra and panty set, setting them off by themselves in the cart. "For me," she explains.

Mallory observes, "I'm sure you'll look wonderful in them."

Hamilton winks at Mal.

Mallory chuckles.

Mallory notes sizes in Blaine's and Jolie's, just in case he winds up buying some as gifts.

Mallory is a practical sort when it comes to romance. Size appears to now count for rather a lot.

Jolie looks down the aisle, and over a turning. "Oh! There are the men's?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Blaine will see that it's men's swimwear..."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Mallory may note that there are models of male torsoes, wearing bright-colored scraps of cloth, over where Jolie was looking."

Mallory also suspects that his usual habits of giving jewelry won't work on his current allocation of funds.

Hamilton says "Swimwear," Blaine explains. "Speaking of which, you might want a swimsuit."

Hamilton says "But, we'll look after socks and hose."

Jolie murmurs, "Swimsuit?" Then she nods. "Okay."

Hamilton .o0 (They *do* wear swimsuits in France, right?)

Hamilton says "Bathing suit," she adds, thinking that may be the proper British term, which Jolie seems a bit more familiar with. "For wearing in the pool or to the beach."

Jolie nods. Her expression is still a little blanker than Blaine might expect.

Hamilton shrugs and leads on.

Hamilton is beginning to think this girl's been locked in a closet somewhere all her life.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Hardly for all her life. Perhaps the past millenium."

The socks and hose are nearby, and Jolie blinks at the displays of hose on abbreviated fake legs.

Hamilton selects a few different pairs, including one in pearl grey, in Jolie's size and shows them to her for approval. "This'll do for a while."

Jolie nods happily.

Hamilton tosses them in the cart. "Now, for socks, if you have any sort of PE... er, physical education class, you're going to want a few pairs of athletic socks."

Jolie says, "I don't think I have any of those..." She glances over to Mallory.

Mallory says "You will probably need them."

Jolie nods then. "All right."

Hamilton nods and points to a package of 6 pairs. "Those should do, and they're inexpensive and all the same so you can match any one with any other one."

Jolie nods again. "That sounds good."

Hamilton tosses an appropriately-size package into the cart and proceeds to dressier socks. "Some women like to wear socks with dressy-casual outfits. Others prefer hose. Up to you whether you want any."

Jolie says, "Um... Maybe one pair of dressy caual socks?"

Hamilton nods and leads to the enormous display of such.

Jolie looks overwhelmed.

Hamilton takes pity and finds a nice pair of grey socks and offers them to Jolie. "Grey works with almost anything, and you don't have to worry about what you wash them with."

Tenatively, Jolie takes them. "Oh. Right."

Hamilton consults her list.

Hamilton concludes she might as well take Jolie and drag poor Mallory through most of the women's areas of the store. If there's something Jolie likes, it'll be cheaper here.

<<OOC>> arcangel can, if poor Mallory wishes, fastfoward though the store. O:>

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Probably best... ;>"

About an hour or two of serious shopping later...

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Figure she finds a couple pairs of jeans and some casual shirts and such..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "... the most embarrassing of which was probably trying to get some sort of decision from Jolie about feminie supplies... ;>"

<<OOC>> arcangel grins. "Jolie mostly went with, 'Whatever you think best.'"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "And Blaine probably went for the middle ground and wondered what'n'th'heck they do in France for such things."

<<OOC>> arcangel giggles.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "And now to pay!"

<<OOC>> Tarot covers her eyes.

<<OOC>> Hamilton thinks 'She acts like she's never seen this stuff before. Surely she... Well, she would say, wouldn't she? Or with him here...?'

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Maybe she's being shy with Mallory around? O:>"

<<OOC>> Hamilton is much too practical to be shy with Mallory around, but this is the kid whose father would forget to get dressed in the morning...

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "or whenever it was he got up."

<<OOC>> arcangel giggles.

<<OOC>> Mallory would imagine Jolie would prefer skirts over jeans. More covering.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "To the point of being adamant about it."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "It probably depends on whether Mallory expressed disapproval over jeans or not. Jolie might get one pair, because it seems expected."

<<OOC>> arcangel idles quickly for cat-feeding.

<<OOC>> Mallory is being distinctly non-interfering about her clothing. If she doesn't choose jeans, he doesn't make an issue of it. He's thinking of it as role maintenance. And, frankly, jeans don't impress him.

<<OOC>> arcangel nods.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "One pair, then, but more because they seem expected than because Jolie likes jeans."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Skirts, now..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Probably an inexpensive pair at that."

<<OOC>> arcangel nods. Definitely inexpensive.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Still, if Mallory's keeping track..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton probably picked up a couple things. The bra and panties. More laundry soap...

Eventually the group and their cart trundle for the cash-registers...

Mallory has a distracted air, and keeps tapping his hip pocket, which is where the card is.

Jolie blinks up at Mallory, with her wide green eyes shimmering. "This place is wonderful, Mal," she sighs.

Mallory nods. "I'm glad it meets with your approval."

Mallory eyes the heap of clothing.

Jolie says, "It's wonderful." She leans her head against Mallory's arm.

Mallory says to Blaine, "Presumably there are other, more discriminating shops such as the one that sells proper gowns?"

Hamilton says "Yes. This is a discount store where the more basic pieces of attire can be found inexpensively."

You paged Hamilton with 'Blaine may, if she wishes, have figured out that this pair are _almost_ as clueless as the aliens in Teenagers From Outer Space games. O:>'.

Mallory nods.

Hamilton says "There are stores for specific athletic attire, evening gowns, wedding attire, lingerie, men's suits, small sizes, large sizes, you name it..."

Mallory says "It's an impressive variety."

Hamilton pages: Oh, she has... ;>

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel grins.

Hamilton says "Sometime, I'll have to take you two to the Victoria's Secret just a floor up from here..."

Mallory chuckles. "Oh?"

Mallory lets the conversation flow. It's better than worrying about whether or not he'll be shamed when he tries to pay.

Hamilton says "If you thought the selection of lingerie here was impressive, you ought to see a whole store dedicated to it. Though they do have a few other things."

Mallory says "Hmm. Well, if we have time, as a treat to Jolie."

Mallory looks up at the register, and eyes the mounting numbers with some trepidation. He retrives the card from a pocket, and puts it on the counter.

The line in front of them is fairly short, and moving quickly enough. All too quickly, they are unloading the clothing from the cart, while the checker waves a strange hand-held device over the tags upon the clothes.

Mallory smiles at Blaine, "Unless you were thinking perhaps to model some of the garments. In which case I would gladly watch, no matter what the company."

The eventual total is in the triple digits, of course.

Hamilton is careful to keep her things separate.

Mallory suppresses a wince, and watches what happens.

Hamilton smiles at Mallory. "I suppose that might be a possibility," she says quietly.

The checker takes Mallory's card, runs it through some other device, waits a moment, and then prints out a bit of paper, handing it to him along with a pen. "Please sign here."

Mallory signs 'Mallory Bernlack', with an exquisite bit of calligraphy. Well, making up for the shortcomings of the pen.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Ooo! She actually ASKED him to sign. She must be used to clueless IOU kids..."

The checker takes the paper back, returns Mallory's card to his possession, and then tears off another bit of paper which has the purchases and their prices itemized upon it. "Here you are. Thank you for shopping at Tarmart."

The checker then starts on Blaine's purchases.

Hamilton's purchases are, of course, much less than Mallory's.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "The clothes were put in plastic bags as the checker went, mostly, and a few more while Mallory signed."

Hamilton pays for her purchases with plastic as well.

Mallory distributes the bags between himself and Jolie, and waits for Blaine to be done.

Jolie tucks her carefully-wrapped glass fairy into the undergarments bag and carries that.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "is there anything left to get that's vital, and how's our time doing?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Well if we got there at 9, and spent an hour or 90 minutes in the discount store..."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "If class is at three, there should be plenty of time."

<<OOC>> arcangel nods. What Mal said. "That sounds good to me."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Works for me."

<<OOC>> Mallory will even treat Blaine to lunch. Particulary if she shows inclinations for a fashion show. <g>

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

<<OOC>> Hamilton is not a prude, though I doubt she's had much romantic experience.

Hamilton finishes with her purchases and leads the two to a shoe store.

Mallory mentions, "Jolie will be working part time at the Library, so she should have something suitable for that. I don't think it needs to be over formal, but it should look appropriate."

Jolie trots along, as if dancing through a realm of magic.

Hamilton motions to what she is wearing-- pleated grey slacks and a cream-coloured silky blouse, with understated jewelry. "Would something like this do?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton will leave it to the imagination what she may be wearing underneath...

Mallory says "Judging by what I've seen some students wearing, that would be more than adequate."

Hamilton says "My attire is a bit on the conservative side. It's the law student in me."

Mallory chuckles.

Mallory says "I find it somewhat more attractive than all these jeans and t-shirts."

Mallory manages to say this without irony, despite being dressed in both jeans and t-shirts.

Well, one t-shirt.

Hamilton smiles. "I have been known to wear the occasional jeans and tee shirt, but that's usually for mucking about when I don't want to get my better clothes dirty. For instance, the Rocky Horror Picture Show is not something you want to wear nice clothes to.

<<OOC>> arcangel falls over, half-dead, thinking of Mallory and RHPS.

<<OOC>> Hamilton surreptitiously adds a " to the end of that...

<<OOC>> Hamilton imagines him being auctioned off as a 'virgin'

Mallory says "I have honestly never been."

Hamilton shrugs. "I went once so I could say I'd been. It's... interesting."

Hamilton says "I got bought for a wadded up chewing gum wrapper and the lint in someone's pockets."

Mallory says "Ah."

Mallory looks mystified.

<<OOC>> Tarot laughs.

Hamilton enjoys mystifying Mallory...

Mallory says "Perhaps you would explain this further. Some type of entertainment involving the selling of others?"

Hamilton says "RHPS is a movie that's become rather a cult classic. People like to participate along with the movie, throwing toast when a toast is called and so on. Those who have never been are known as 'virgins' and are typically 'auctioned off' to the highest bidder. Nothing really comes of the auction. It's just part of the atmosphere."

Jolie dances about (despite the bags of clothes she carries), not paying attention to the conversation, humming a light, airy melody.

Mallory says "Ah, I see."

Hamilton glances about for a shoe store.

Mallory says "Rather like the imitation of peasants by the gentry for 'fun', but involving no actual work or anything else that would be considered beneath them."

A Payless Shoe Store is visible, down the corridor, past the elevator.

Hamilton grins. "Other than being valued at a chewing gum wrapper and some lint. And I auctioned high, even."

Hamilton motions. "Shoe store."

Jolie finishes her hum with a "mrp?" She looks at the shoe store and trots inside, bags bouncing.

Mallory chuckles, and, after a moment of looking impressed, follows Jolie and Blaine in.

There are shoes here. Lots and lots of shoes, in a multitude of styles.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Well, it's not _that_ good a selection, Blaine will note. But it's tolerable."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "A women's shoe store, or a more general shoe store, by the way?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "General."

Hamilton whispers, "Best keep an eye on her. Shoes get expensive."

Mallory chuckles.

Hamilton leads Jolie in the direction of her size.

Mallory replies, "Perhaps you might suggest only the most appropriate pairs for her outfits, keeping the number relatively low."

Jolie peers at high-heeled shoes which have rhinestones upon them, then goes on to a pair of gold-leather medium-heeled.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Blaine will detect the presence of a Sale Rack of shoes, which is what Jolie is peering at."

Hamilton whispers to Jolie, "Too gaudy. You don't want people ignoring the rest of your outfit to stare at your feet."

Jolie forms her mouth into an "O" and nods. "Right." She looks around and rustles the bags she's holding. "Is there anywhere to rest the bags?"

Hamilton takes the bags from Jolie over to Mallory and sits him down on a bench, surrounding him by bags of clothes. "Wait here, if you would, Mal. This may take a bit."

<<OOC>> Tarot laughs.

Mallory says "Certainly."

Mallory waits there.

Jolie looks at the flashy shoes more, but seems to be trying to look at the others as well.

Hamilton then returns to the sales rack and looks to see if there's really anything worth buying among its offerings before proceeding to the regular aisle.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "If you have size 6 feet, or size 12 feet, then there are some nice shoes there... The rest look a bit picked-over."

<<OOC>> Hamilton nods. She might very well have size 6 feet... ;>

<<OOC>> arcangel grins.

Hamilton shakes her head. "Let's see what they've got that's not on sale."

Jolie says, "All right!" She follows Hamilton cheerfully.

Mallory sits surrounded by bags. In the middle of a women's shoe shop, this gives him a somehow masculine look.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Ah, but this has shoes for both genders."

Hamilton thought he looked cute.

Hamilton leads to the regular racks and begins picking out a few likely pairs of shoes.

Jolie watches this, wiggling her toes in her borrowed sandles.

Hamilton says "Have you ever worn high heels?"

Jolie says, "Um, no."

Jolie volunteers, "I usually go barefoot. When I can."

Hamilton leaves the pair of heels behind. "Best not to start, then. They ruin your feet."

Jolie asks, "Why do people wear them, then?"

Hamilton concentrates on flats or near-flats, which will severely limit the selection.

<<OOC>> arcangel chuckles. No kidding.

Hamilton says "They think it makes them look sexy. And it makes you look taller, too."

Jolie considers this. "I don't want to look taller."

Hamilton says "Good. Then we need not worry about heels.]"

Jolie smiles. She says, "There are a lot of them with heels, aren't there..."

Hamilton selects more than Jolie can possibly use, knowing that some of them will not quite fit right and need to be returned to the rack upon trying them on. "Yes, there are, rather. I've often thought the shoe industry was in league with the podiatrists."

Jolie says, "Podiatrists?"

Hamilton says "Foot doctors."

Jolie blinks. "Oh." She looks at her feet. "I don't think my feet are likely to get sick. Are they?"

Hamilton smiles. "Not likely, especially if you don't wear heels. But sometimes they do get injured."

Jolie opens her mouth as if to say something, then obviously changes her mind midstream and only says, "Oh. Right."

Hamilton points to a selection of about a half-dozen pairs. "Any you absolutely can't stand?"

Jolie considers the shoes. "They look fine to me. We should check them with Mallory, maybe?"

Hamilton says "He'll get to see them when you try them on. Even though they're all your size, not all of them will fit."

Jolie says, "I don't understand."

Hamilton hands Jolie 3 boxed and takes 3 herself, heading for the bench where Mallory is. "Even though there are standard sizes, each foot is a little different and each style of shoe is a little different in how it conforms to the foot. Some styles with some feet just don't go well together."

Mallory asks, from among the bags of clothing, "Did you pick up an athletic pair of shoes?"

Hamilton nods to a couple of pairs in her arms. "We'll see which pair fits better."

Jolie goes "Ah" to Hamilton, taking the boxes and following along.

Mallory nods.

Mallory watches with interest. He, of course, has a few pair of shoes.

Hamilton clears off a couple of bags from beside Mallory and nods to Jolie. "Sit down and try them on and I'll run any we don't like back to the racks." Blaine pauses and looks around, locating the little box of footies and hands a pair of them to Jolie. "Put these on first."

Jolie looks for a clear spot of bench and sits down. As instructed, she takes off her sandals and puts on the footies without comment.

Hamilton is rather enjoying her role of tour-guide to Earth.

Hamilton says "Are you right- or left-handed?"

Jolie considers this. "Which is better?"

Hamilton looks mystified. "Neither is better, I don't suppose. I was just wanting to know to figure out which foot was liable to be bigger."

Jolie swings her footie-clad feet up. "I don't think either is bigger," she says, very seriously, as she considers her appendages.

Hamilton shrugs and hands Jolie the right shoe from one of the pairs of athletic shoes. "Try this on, then."

Jolie examines the athletic shoe carefully, tugging at its tongue, then finally slips her foot into it.

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 1 3 CHECK: 5.

Mallory roots around the floor, and hands over a foot measurer. "Perhaps this will help?"

<<OOC>> Mallory is a lot of things. But he's not dumb.

<<OOC>> arcangel grins.

<<OOC>> arcangel notes that for _best_ results, when trying on shoes, one should have socks on equivalent to the ones one will be wearing normally... O:>

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Yup"

Hamilton takes it and waits for Jolie's reaction to the tennis shoe.

Jolie gets the shoe on. "It's hard to wiggle my toes. Is it supposed to be a little loose?"

Hamilton says "You'll likely want it to be a bit loose, since you'll be wearing socks with them. Looks like they don't quite fit, then."

Jolie says, "I'm not sure. It's a little loose around my heels, but I'm not sure about the toes."

Hamilton considers. Takes the shoed foot. "Wiggle your foot back till the heel is all the way back."

Jolie wiggles her foot obediently.

Her foot slips into the shoe a little more securely.

After the heel is all the way back, Blaine will pull the tongue straight and the laces tight, but not too tight and tie. "How's that?"

Jolie considers it. "Oh. That's better." She smiles shyly. "Not quite as good as barefoot, though."

Hamilton says "Never is."

Jolie nods and sighs. "Should I try on the other one, too?"

Hamilton hands Jolie the other shoe. "Put this on and then try walking around."

Jolie does so, a bit less clumsily than the first one, and duplicates fixing the tongue and laces. She stands up and walks around. "My. They're almost broken in already."

Hamilton says "Is there a bit of space yet? You will be wearing them with socks, after all."

Jolie thinks, then nods. "I think so." She looks up. "We bought socks -- should I put some of those on?"

Hamilton says "Sure."

Jolie sits down to swap shoes for socks for shoes with socks...

Mallory digs through the bags, opening up the athletic socks and passing over one pair.

Jolie asks, "Mallory, which of the other shoes do you like?"

Hamilton turns boxes so prices can be seen.

Mallory looks over the various pair. "The ones that match your outfits, naturally. Plus we will look for another, more formal outfit or two for your work at the library and and other occaisons.

Mallory says "So perhaps upon completing our shopping for those, we can look for matching shoes."

Mallory picks a couple of pair of flats in neutral colors, and some leather sandals-cum-flats that he thinks would look all right with jeans or some of the skirts.

Hamilton arranges the other 4 pair by matching-ness and goes through trying them on, with footies for the ones that would be worn with hose.

Jolie repeats the shoe-testing, only wincing at one pair. "The toes are so narrow!"

Hamilton puts those and the other pair of athletic shoes bac,k.,,,

Mallory thinks Jolie would definitely not like high heels.

Jolie, while Blaine is gone, schooches a little closer to Mallory and murmurs, "They wear shoes with spikes on the heels, Mallory! Even though it breaks their feet!"

Mallory nods. "Remember, humans and vanity..."

Mallory has not heard of chinese foot binding, or he'd mention it to Jolie at this point.

<<OOC>> Hamilton grins.

Jolie shakes her head,then rests her cheek on his shoulder, murmuring, "Ah, m'lord. What fools these mortals can be... And yet such wonders!"

Hamilton returns. "So, is 4 pair too many?"

Mallory pats Jolie gently on the shoulder.

Jolie replies to Blaine, "Um. I don't know -- maybe sandals, and some for dress, and the athletic ones?"

Mallory says "I would say three pair now, with one, more formal pair, purchased later. The athletic, the sandals, one of the 'flats', and whatever Jolie likes to go with her nice outfit."

Jolie beams at Mallory.

Hamilton nods. "So, which of the flats do you like better?"

Jolie examines the flats, finally picking one in a nice grayish tone.

Mallory does not seem, for whatever reason, to be disturbed or even slightly embarassed at Jolie's deferral.

Hamilton takes the other pair back.

Jolie smiles, blinking back tears for a moment. "It's been so long since I had anything fine."

Mallory says, utterly without rancor, "You will of course repay me for the clothing, once you have an income of your own. Except for the good outfits. Those you may consider my gift. My reward will be seeing you wear them, as appreciating a woman's beauty should be a reward for any man."

Jolie smiles, still misty-eyed. "Thank you."

Mallory says "You are welcome."

You paged Hamilton with 'Jolie is definitely subsurvient to Mal. For whatever reason. Hee.'.

Hamilton pages: Yup!

Hamilton pages: Of course, she could be assuming since Mal is covering expenses right now that it makes a certain amount of sense for him to be putting a limit on money spent.

You paged Hamilton with 'This is true!'.

Hamilton pages: However, Blaine has noted the deferral even in areas of style and taste...

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel chuckles. "Maybe she's in love with him?"

Hamilton pages: That's one possible explanation. Blaine's still curious about how she ended up with Mal sans clothes...

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel chuckles.

Hamilton pages: Maybe they got caught together and fled without retrieving clothing...

Long distance to Tarot: arcangel giggles at the list. Yeah! And nods.

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel laughs!

You paged Hamilton with 'Maybe she arrived on his doorstep in something utterly inappropriate.'.

Hamilton pages: Considering Blaine's wondering what planet she came from, that's a possibility, too.

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel giggles!

Hamilton returns from reshelving shoes. "Okay. Where now?"

Mallory checks the time. "Perhaps you would care for some lunch? Or would you care to regale us with this 'Victoria's Secret' place you were mentioning."

Jolie bites her lip and looks curious.

Hamilton grins and arches an eyebrow. "Let's go to Victoria's Secret and then do lunch."

Shoes are gathered up -- and paid for. The three pairs don't _quite_ break two digits. _Quite._

Hamilton arranges bags about her person as the others do the same, then leads them to the escalators to go up a floor to where she noticed the VS the other day.

<<OOC>> arcangel has a spouse waking up and muttering about food... Probably needs to break here...

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "What an evil place to break!... ;>"

<<OOC>> arcangel is evil!

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Quite."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "On the other hand, I need to commute, so it works well."

<<OOC>> arcangel hugs.

<<Scene Stop>>

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Hehe. Just reading the archived account of the session with Mal, Jolie and Tarot-- Deb never said what KIND of posing, did she?... ;>"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Nope, never did."

<<Scene Start>>

Hamilton watches Jolie to see whether she's acclimated to escalator-riding.

Jolie hesitates at the escalator until Mallory steps onto it first, but doesn't insist on grabbing his arm.

Hamilton rides up, gets off, and consults the floor map to orient herself.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Or Victoriant herself, as the case may be..."

Down the hall, turn a corner, turn another corner, turn a third corner, nip down that hall, and it's the fourth store on the left.

Hamilton conveys this to her companions and sets off walking.

Mallory leads Jolie along nonchalantly.

Hamilton leads on and around, glancing in the occasional window along the way.

Mallory's eye catches on a shop selling fine italian men's clothing.

The Mall flows about the trio, and soon enough, they are at a storefront which has, inside it, headless, armless mannikins of female bodies, wearing bras and panties (quite silky ones) . . . and with a pair of small feathered wings each.

Mallory snorts, amused.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

<<OOC>> Hamilton has a player who wants to play a Lilim working for VS, so she can honestly claim to be an angel...

<<OOC>> arcangel laughs!

Racks just inside the doors have silky and satiny fripperies with bits of lace and translucent fabric.

Hamilton ignores Mal's snort of amusement and steps inside, looking for the nightgowns, bustiers, and so on.

Mallory follows along, suitably impressed at the even larger (and lacier) selection of underclothing.

Hamilton says "They make bras with real diamons on them," she comments to Mal. "Just a *small* sum of money for those..."

Mallory chuckles. "One would imagine.

Inside, to the right are racks of sleepware -- long gowns and robes, as well as pajamas. To the left are tables and drawers of bras and underwear.

Jolie follows Mallory in, wide-eyed.

In the room beyond, there are more tables, and a door to the right.

Beyond _that_ door, are more bras, and racks with bustiers.

<<OOC>> arcangel blatently swipes the local VS floorplan.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

Jolie looks around, obviously boggled at all the intimate garments.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "A lot of this stuff looks perfectly wearable on a day-to-day basis, but there are other things that are obviously intended to be removed after a short while..."

Mallory is quickly coming to the conclusion that overmuch intimate clothing in one place is merely interesting, and possibly impressive in quantity, but not tremendously erotic.

Jolie shifts bags in her hands until she can pluck at a satinesque robe of an exceedingly rich sapphire hue. "Oh my."

Softly, softly, Jolie murmurs, "I remember... riding to the hunt, and the bridle was this hue, like silk in my hands..."

Hamilton begins looking through the bodysuits and camisoles and such.

Mallory watches Blaine and keeps an eye on Jolie.

Since the Mall isn't hyper-busy yet, a roving salesgirl drifts by to ask if Hamilton needs help finding anything.

Jolie looks as if she'd like to sort of haul everything off and make herself a silky nest.

Hamilton says "Just looking right now."

The saleswoman smiles. "All right. Ask if you need anything." She roves away from Blaine.

<<GAME>> Arcangel rolls the d666 and gets 2 3 CHECK: 1.

The roving saleswoman roves towards Jolie.

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 3 5 CHECK: 3.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Hm. Their lace top is certainly daring..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "http://www.victoriassecret.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ExecMacro/001.d2w/report?ProdText=22-125264 That's something like Blaine's looking for..."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Mmmm!"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Very enticing."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "BTW, Mal, you can spot the roving saleswoman if you're paying any attention to Jolie at all."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Which he said he was."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Which I would be yes. one doesn't let one's (new, untried) servants out on a long leash in public."

The saleswoman roves towards Jolie, with obvious intent to ask if she can help the nice young woman with anything.

Hamilton spots the lace bustier and matching panties and pulls a couple sets out, comparing the white, black and taupe. She puts the taupe back and continues considering...

Jolie, glaze-eyed, is only marveling at the colors and fabrics, not noticing the saleswoman at all.

Mallory circles round towards Jolie, arriving at roughly the same time as the saleswoman.

The saleswoman asks Jolie, "Can I help you with anything, miss?"

Jolie looks up, blinking.

Jolie says, with a decided fae accent at the moment, "These -- how much silver?"

Hamilton turns to ask Mallory's opinion on colours and pauses to watch.

Mallory adds, in a neutral tone, "I believe she means dollars, Madame."

The saleswoman blinks. "Ah. Right." She checks the tag. "This one is twenty-one ninety-five. Are you an exchance student?" she asks brightly.

Jolie shrugs and looks back at the robe she's considering, with her eyes glittering.

The saleswoman turns to Mallory. "And you?"

Mallory says "Yes, I am, thank you."

The saleswoman parses this, and smiles. "Of course. Can I help you find anything?"

Mallory laughs softly. "No, thank you. I am merely here with my friends."

The woman continues to smile. "All right. But remember to come back if you need anything special." She roves on.

Jolie murmurs to Mallory, "If only I had a little Essence..."

Mallory shakes his head. Humans.

Hamilton then clears her throat and holds up the black bustier. "Mal, what do you think?"

Mallory looks up at Blaine. "It looks intriguing."

Mallory asks Jolie, "And what would you do with this Essence?"

Mallory asks this in the same murmur, at that.

Jolie murmurs back, dreamily, "She'd give it to me..."

Hamilton switches to white. "Or do you like white better?"

Mallory chuckles. "Such things are against the rules, cherie. On campus and in this mall. You would not dream of breaking them, would you?" His eyes suddenly take on a slight edge.

Jolie pauses, and sighs. Still murmuring, still with a distinct fae accent, she replies, "Ah. I had forgotten for a moment. I am sorry, Mallory."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Is Blaine particularly pale or tan?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Tends toward pale."

Mallory says "Try the black first, I think. More suited to your complexion."

There are changing rooms...

Hamilton takes both with her to the changing room.

Mallory pats Jolie's hand. "When you are not bound by the rules, you are welcome to take advantage of your gifts. But only then. And I do not think you should go outside the boundaries of the mall or the university to begin with, for your own safety. Perhaps later."

Jolie stays looking mournfully at the robes. "I understand, m'l--Mallory. I... was remembering riding to the hunt. I will not let it happen again."

Mallory says "You will have the opportunity to purchase them later, with your own silver. Remember that. Now, look for something that you think might go well with an outfite like that of Mademoiselle Blaine's, for when you are at work."

<<OOC>> Hamilton hopes she understands that to be what Blaine wore to the Mall, and not what she's trying on...

Jolie smiles up at Mallory. "I'm not sure if any of this will go well or not, depending on how much my outer clothes will be revealing."

Hamilton, meanwhile, is trying on the bustiers, and concluding that she likes the black better.

Jolie pauses, and adds, "Though this robe would match your eyes wonderfully, Mallory."

Mallory chuckles softly. "Would it now?"

Jolie nods, her own eyes a soft, melting green.

Mallory adds, a touch dangerously, "Surely you aren't trying to dress me as a woman, Jolie?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Maybe she likes crossdressers..."

Jolie blinks. "Oh. No, no. Is the style so definitely a woman's, then?" She plucks at the robe, with its belt tied fast around it.

Mallory ponders this, and the robe, closely.

The robe looks like it would hit about mid-thigh, though it is next to one which is definitely a floor-length _dress_ style, and is belted.

The robe in question is a rich shade of blue.

Hamilton eventually emerges from the changing room and returns the white bustier to the rack.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Is Blaine wearing the black?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Carrying it, with apparent intent to buy..."

Jolie sighs wistfully at the robes, but doesn't ask for anything.

Mallory looks mock-devastated, "Whatever happened to your offer of a show?"

Hamilton winks. "Maybe someplace more private?"

Jolie glances at Blaine, but without apparent jealousy.

Mallory chuckles. "Ah, but then we would not have the variety before us." He picks up a camisole, "This, by itself is merely a wisp of cloth. There are many such wisps about us."

Mallory says "Whereas you will have but the one someplace else."

Hamilton smiles. "Well, I'm buying this one, so we'll save it for later..."

Mallory says, to Jolie, "Would you like to at least try on the robe?"

Jolie perks up. "Oh, yes!"

Hamilton then goes to select a few things for show...

Mallory says "Go ahead then."

Jolie juggles her bags again and looks plaintively at Mallory.

Mallory looks through the robes a bit more. Tempting. Certainly more color and elegance than he's seen yet in this dull time. And he's certainly worn more lace in his day.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "So, do these VS have 'modeling' areas where one sits the man accompanying?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Or other companions?"

<<OOC>> arcangel nods. "A chair, actually, next to the entrance into the short hall which has the dressing room doors off it."

Mallory points to the chair. "Place the bags there, Jolie. I will watch them while you change."

Jolie bounces off to the chair, deposits her bags (the one with her little glass fairy is deposited very carefully), and darts back. "May I try on more than one?"

Mallory looks about.

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 5 3 CHECK: 4.

<<OOC>> Mallory probably doesn't spot the 3 or 5 or whatever item limit, does he?

<<OOC>> arcangel thinks not. "It's not obvious anyway."

Mallory says "I don't see why not. Go ahead."

Mallory looks amused. Perhaps he'll let Jolie take her free time by coming here and trying on fripperies.

Jolie takes the robe in question, something almost entirely lace, and something very very sheer.

Jolie then heads off to the changing rooms.

Mallory hunts down Blaine.

Mallory says "Mademoiselle, a favor if you would."

Mallory says "If there are any customs to trying on clothes in this country, particularly such intimates... if you might instruct my friend..."

Hamilton says "Yes?"

Hamilton nods.

Mallory says "My thanks."

Mallory goes back to perusing robes and keeping an eye on the bags to prevent theft.

Hamilton has selected a few things-- whatever the limit is.

<<OOC>> arcangel thinks about 4-6.

Some of the robes are clearly female fripperies. Others are elegant. Kimono-like.

and so goes to the changing area with Jolie.

Jolie looks up, having figured out hanging the clothes hangers up on the hook, and also having stripped down to, well... skin ...in record time.

Hamilton pages: I see to recall that undies must be worn with intimates... Blaine's in for a surprise...

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel nods and chuckles. "Well, if you wear anything against the crotch."

Mallory picks out two or three of the more elegant ones and, when he thinks nobody is watching, holds one up before himself in a mirror.

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Awww."

Hamilton pauses in surprise. "Ah..." She looks to see what Jolie is trying on.

That shade of blue (the one Jolie picked not being the only one) does indeed match his eyes. The black makes him look very pale. All are quite pleasent to the touch.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Anything where she's supposed to be in undies?"

Jolie has robes -- no undergarments. She's currently reaching for a satiny robe that wraps across the front, to be belted.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Though most people do wear undies with those, really..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "True"

Mallory looks amused. There are, he supposes, no male changing rooms. Probably for the best.

Hamilton says "You could probably leave your underwear on, you know."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Hm. Is Blaine slightly boggled by this? And would she make a Perception roll?"

<<GAME>> Hamilton rolls the d666 and gets 3 5 CHECK: 1.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "I think that's a miss."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Ah, well."

Jolie says, "Underwear?" She pulls the robe on, belting it. At least she's not showing much except, well, some cleavage.

Hamilton says "Panties... smalls..."

Jolie says, "Oh!" She looks down. "I didn't bring any that we bought in with me."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Blaine can now see that this is the case..."

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 1 3 CHECK: 1.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Huh, I might have even heard that."

<<OOC>> arcangel grins. Sure.

Jolie admires herself in the mirror. "How wonderous clear it is," she murmurs, mostly to herself. To Blaine, she asks, "Is it permitted to walk out a moment, to display the clothing?"

Mallory looks amused. He reaches into one of the bags, picking out a package of panties, and sets it on the top of the pile inside the bag. Just in case someone asks for it.

Hamilton says "Oh." Blaine seems to now be absorbing the extent of Jolie's missing wardrobe. "So, what... Oh, never mind."

Jolie blinks at Blaine.

Hamilton says "Certainly. Go show Mallory. And you might want to retrieve a pair of underwear while you're out."

Jolie smiles. "All right!" She bounces (quite...) out.

Outside the dressing room, Jolie dances into view on tiptoes, giving a spin to show off the whole outfit. The blue doesn't quite match her eyes well, but it does bring out highlights in her hair.

Mallory smiles. "It's very pretty, cherie. It goes well with your hair."

Jolie beams. She dances closer. "The mirrors they have are wonderous clear. Oh! And Blaine says I should have the smallclothes."

Hamilton, meanwhile, is pulling on something herself.

Mallory smiles, and without so much as looking, reaches into a bag, and pulls out a packet with one pair of neutrally colored panties inside. "Here. And I believe the Mademoiselle called them 'underthings'.

Jolie nods. "Yes, yes. Underthings." She takes the package, smiles most winsomely, and then bounces (bouncily) back to the dressing room.

Mallory chuckles at the bouncing and murmurs to himself, "I could have sworn I instructed her not to overdo her bosom."

Jolie slips back into the dressing room, already starting to doff the robe.

Hamilton strides out in some black lacy number...

Jolie pauses, shrugging the robe back on, and follows Blaine out carefully, hanging back to see what the reaction will be.

Hamilton pirouettes, slowly.

Mallory makes an appreciative noise, and his eyes caress Blaine's figure in a way that seems both extremely old fashioned and more than a little up to date.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

Jolie watches Mallory's expression for a moment, then slips back into the dressing room.

Mallory has rarely seen lace done so finely, and Blaine puts it to excellent use.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;> Mal

Hamilton strides slowly back to the changing area.

Mallory thinks Blaine is somewhat thinner than the women he's used to, but she makes up for it by appearing in better health.

As Blaine gets back, Jolie (fortunately in undies, though showing a bit of pigment at the breasts...) emerges, in ice-white lace that highlights her fine, pale skin. She all but floats, her feet almost not touching the ground as she goes to show off to Mallory.

Mallory looks over Jolie. "Truly, Jolie, you impress me. Your beauty does credit to your people."

Jolie flushes delicately, but the white lace makes it obvious. She murmurs, "I am glad you approve, Mallory." She spins, almost in slow motion, and the lace drifts and swings interestingly.

Mallory says "I do approve."

Jolie hugs herself and wiggles. "One more to try on..." With a grin which would probably get described as "pert" by many, she sways back to the dressing room.

Mallory chuckles.

Mallory suspects a certain fey wench will try to persuade him into purchasing one or more of the outfits for her. He ponders if he'll let himself be persuaded.

Hamilton emerges in a forest green satin cami and tap pants.

Jolie pauses to see Mallory's reaction to Blaine again.

Mallory looks over Blaine appreciatively. "I like the originality of the wisps here. And the color suits you very nicely."

Hamilton smiles. "Almost decent enough to wear in public," she comments.

Mallory chuckles. "Almost."

Mallory says "Certainly you're welcome to wear it in my presence any time you like."

Hamilton heads back to the changing room, with a certain saucy spring to her step. She is having too much fun with this.

Jolie gives Blaine a nod as she swaps out, in the sheer white nightie that drifts around and hardly conceals a scrap of her form.

Hamilton says "This is entertaining, isn't it, Jolie?" Blaine asks."

Mallory looks about to see if the store sales people are watching him watch the ladies.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Whoops. Ah, well."

Jolie nods to Blaine, cheerfully.

Mallory looks around a bit more.

No one seems to be noticing. Though they might be studiously not noticing.

Mallory, based on the way people keep treating him, halfway expects the staff to ask him why he's not part of the show.

Jolie drifts out and does another slow twirl, with the sheer fabric floating around her like mist.

Mallory smiles. "Very pretty, although it hardly counts as clothing. Accent, perhaps."

Mallory says "Though I will not fault your beauty."

Hamilton slips on the next outfit, a pale yellow nightgown with laces up the bodice, which she leaves untied, and an overrobe of mostly lace.

Jolie giggles. "Thank you, m'lord," she murmurs back. "I once had a gown entire of a cloth like this..." She spins and dances a few steps, the movements rather out of place in the strong lighting of the store.

Mallory mmms.

Hamilton pages: And can Blaine hear that 'm'lord'?

You paged Hamilton with 'Give me Perception. O:>'.

Mallory says "Pity I don't sketch. Ah well, memory will have to serve."

<<GAME>> Hamilton rolls the d666 and gets 2 6 CHECK: 6.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "I think not."

<<OOC>> arcangel coughs, pages that...

Hamilton pages: Not without bonuses.

<<OOC>> Mallory raises an eybrow or six.

Jolie smiles. "Perhaps there are those upon the campus who can sketch."

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Deborah!!!"

<<OOC>> arcangel looks innocent, as if the thought had not crossed her mind.

Hamilton waits for Jolie to step back in before stepping back out.

Jolie dances her way back to the dressing room, to a tune eldritch and fey, inside her head.

Mallory chuckles. "Good point. In fact, I know at least one person who does. And who might even pay for such a fashion show so she could sketch."

Jolie beams at Mallory as she goes.

Mallory imagines Jolie attempting to talk Madame di Ordo's secretary into paying for her fashion habits.

<<OOC>> Tarot covers her face. Jolie, Porn Novel Star.

Hamilton slips out with a wink to Jolie, and walks slowly and seductively toward Mallory.

playing with the laces on her gown as she does so...

Jolie peeks out from the dressing room to watch. Again.

Mallory smiles. "Lovely again. Words fail me, Mademoiselle. I am surrounded by a surfeit of beauty."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "That's right, go ahead and tease the balseraph."

<<OOC>> Jolie . o O (Who said anything about teasing?)

<<OOC>> Hamilton doesn't know...

Mallory is perhaps a bit unusual in Blaine's experience in that he doesn't stare dumbstruck. In fact, it's rather like having a conissieur appraise a fine wine. A certain appreciative detatchment, a knowlegeable eye, underlain with an abiding passion in the subject.

Hamilton leans closer and whispers, "This would be fun in private, where a few of the little bra and panty sets could be modelled..."

Mallory smiles. "It would, most certainly."

Mallory doesn't mentioned that the location doesn't seem to have stopped Jolie from wearing essentially transparent clothing, although she did keep her panties on underneath.

Jolie, being thought of, peeps out, wearing normal clothing once again, but only watches.

Hamilton says "But, perhaps, later. I do have a few of their things already."

Mallory smiles. "You and Jolie put on a beautiful show."

Hamilton says "Thank you."

Mallory ponders a teasing aside about Raven wishing she might be here, but discards it as unnecessary and unworthy.

<<OOC>> arcangel . o O (Blaine will hear Raven wailing about it later anyway...)

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "You bet!"

Hamilton wonders how much of a show Jolie has already put on in private...

Hamilton goes back and slips back on her normal clothes and returns items to hangers.

Mallory supposes he should show some chivalry under the circumstances.

As Blaine gets back to the dressing room, Jolie emerges (dressed), with the clothes neatly back on their hangers.

Mallory says "Jolie."

Jolie pauses. "Yes, Mallory?"

Mallory says "You may pick one, assuming my card retains sufficient credit."

Mallory says "I suggest the robe, if you wish to wear it in public, or the sheer, as it is the most 'fey' of the three."

Jolie's face lights up. "Thank you!" She sits down on the chair and begins comparing the price-tags carefully, and eagerly. The lace is, however, set aside almost instantly.

<<OOC>> Mallory wonders if Jolie changed into some of the clothes she purchased, or is in Mallory's borrwed clothing.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Borrowed -- she didn't take anything into the room with her save that, and the panties. (The package of which, opened, one missing, she brought out and set in one of the bags after she sat down.)"

Mallory waits for Blaine to emerge, so he can suggest lunch.

Jolie finally looks up. "The sheer is slightly less silver, but the robe could be worn for many more things than just private ones."

Hamilton does emerge and returns things to racks.

Mallory says "Your decison, Jolie. Pick that which you like more."

Jolie sighs, thinks for a bit longer, and then goes to put the lace and the sheer back on the rack.

Hamilton smiles at Jolie and carries the black bustier to the counter.

Mallory picks up bags, and then follows along with Jolie to the counter.

Jolie follows, with the silken blue robe.

Mallory plucks out his card, and again reminds himself to find out just how much credit he has.

Hamilton purchases the bustier, with plastic.

Purchases are quickly rung up, and, indeed, Mallory enough credit -- or, at least, the saleswoman behind the counter doesn't say anything to indicate otherwise. She wraps each item carefully in pink paper with gold hearts, and slips it into a paper bag.

(And again, Mallory must sign his name on a slip of paper.)

Mallory signs, again with that elegant handwriting.

Bags are retrieved, and Jolie is all but walking on air as the group exits...

Mallory says "Would you care for lunch, Mademoiselle, or should we pick up the more formal outfit and return to campus?"

Hamilton says "Perhaps a quick lunch. There's a commons with various food places surrounding it. Hamburgers, Philly steak, pizza by the slice, Chinese, Japanese... You name it."

Mallory nods.

Hamilton says "That way we could all get what we like."

Mallory looks curious at some of the names, and nods.

Mallory says "Please, lead the way."

Hamilton leads the way, curious as to whether Jolie will pick out her own food or go with 'whatever Mallory's eating'...

<<Scene Stop>>

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Ren's being a silly boy-- brought me the fingernail clippers and keeps coming and sticking one finger out, lets me trim the nail, and then wanders off again."

<<OOC>> arcangel laughs.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Giggling the whole time."

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Aww."

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

<<OOC>> Mallory says "I believe we were headed for lunch?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "The Mall's Food Court, as I recall."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Yup"

<<Scene Start>>

Mallory follows Blaine up the escalator, increadingly loaded down with bags.

Jolie trails along, starting to actually take escalators in stride now.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

When they arrive on the proper floor, Blaine leads the pair to the food court, and pauses to consider what she would like.

Mallory gets his first good look at the food court. "Is it for dining, or a circus?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Ooo! Catch 22"

One stand has a giant representation of a potato, while another has pizza slices. A third has huge ice cream cones. A Taco Bell, Burger King, and Orange Julius are also in evidence.

Hamilton was thinking Chinese.

Mallory looks a touch baffled.

Mallory says "Which would you recommend?"

At the far end, there are places proclaiming Oriental Express, and something that serves sandwiches with odd sprouts on it.

Jolie just gapes for a second, then attempts to look bland. Bland rubbernecking doesn't quite work.

Hamilton says "I think I'm going to go with Chinese." She nods at the Oriental Express. "Well, psuedo-Chinese."

Mallory says "I see."

Mallory says "What is this... Orange Julius?"

Hamilton shrugs. "Hamburgers and the like. They have rather good fruit frosty things."

There is a stand at its counter of twisted bread pretzles, and odd brown things rotating on a metal device, and a _lot_ of things in paper cups being handed to customers.

Jolie edges a little closer to Blaine and says, "I think Chinese sounds good to me, too."

Hamilton says "And you, Mallory?"

Mallory, having never had Chinese, looks unsure.

Mallory says "I believe I will try one of those fruit frosty things."

Hamilton says "They're quite good. I may get one to drink with my Chinese."

Mallory nods.

Mallory watches Blaine to see what she does.

The Orange Julius place has a menu at its back wall, with a large image of something frothy in a cup.

Mallory reads the menu, observes what people are being served, and does some quick mental calculations about how much it will all cost.

Mallory orders one of the medium sized orange drinks. That's all.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "About $3 for a medium."

Hamilton orders a medium strawberry Julius.

The teenager behind the counter rings up the orders and then goes back to scoop ice into a pitcher-like container, dump in fruit and some white powder, and brings it back, setting the pitcher into another small boxy contraption. She presses a button, and the contents are whipped up into a froth. Then the resulting liquid is poured into cups.

Jolie squeaks quietly and hides behind Mallory.

Mallory looks a tad suspicious. More Technology tricks.

<<OOC>> Mellor hi5s Technology.

Mallory says "Mademoiselle, is there nowhere in this place where food is cooked in a more...traditional manner?"

Hamilton considers.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "There's a health-food place over beside the Chinese."

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Hardly traditional... ;>"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Details, details. The SubWay over at the far right? O:>"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "KFC per chance?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Sure. It's a big Mall."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Blaine may wonder exactly how it's all supported, mind. It's not like it's in the middle of a huge city. But it's there."

Hamilton says "There are a few restaurants about, and a cafeteria, but they take longer, and are more expensive. That's why I suggested the food court. You may find the Chinese to your liking. And the KFC there has fried or broasted chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, cole slaw, biscuits..."

Mallory hmms.

Mallory takes his drink, and sips warily.

It is very orange, and very sweet.

Mallory says "It is a bit sweet, and does not have as much fruit as I am accustomed to."

Mallory was, after all, the type who would go down to the south of the country on the mediterranean and have the good stuff.

Albeit rarely.

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Not wine?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "And lots of wine, none of which appears to be served here."

Hamilton nods.

Hamilton says "It's sort of like a milkshake, only lighter."

Mallory says "For the moment I will satisfy myself with this."

Jolie asks, "Should we find a table? For the bags?"

Mallory nods.

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 3 5 CHECK: 6.

Mallory fails to spot a table.

<<GAME>> Hamilton rolls the d666 and gets 3 3 CHECK: 1.

<<GAME>> Arcangel rolls the d666 and gets 4 4 CHECK: 3.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "After much thorough looking, a free table can be spotted, though it takes a certain amount of methodical peering."

Mallory smoothly cuts through the crowd, and claims the table.

Hamilton deposits her Strawberry Julius and turns to Jolie. "Off to get Chinese now?"

Jolie deposits bags at the table and nods.

Mallory guards the table, and bags, and sips his Orange Julius to accustom himself to it.

Hamilton heads to the Chinese place and looks to see what the special for the day is.

The Oriental Express has various items on its menu, hung in back of their alcove. Special of the day appears to be Beef Lo Mein.

There is also a little container of chopsticks, along with plastic forks, the napkin dispenser, etc.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Ah, on the effects of MSG on Celestial Vessels..."

Hamilton orders Moo Goo Gai Pan, with fried rice and egg roll.

Jolie orders the special of the day, with white rice and egg roll, and tea to drink. She asks Blaine, "Are the chopsticks things to buy too?"

Hamilton shakes her head. "You can eat with either fork or chopsticks. Those are for the people who prefer chopsticks."

Jolie plucks out a pair of chopsticks. "Thanks."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Hmm, so do the fey know about chopsticks..."

<<OOC>> Hamilton considers the character sheet...

The food is prepared quickly, as befits a place with "Express" in its name, and served up on styrofoam plates. Jolie's tea is in a paper cup.

Hamilton takes a couple of napkins, a packet of soy sauce, a packet of sweet and sour sauce, and both a fork and pair of chopsticks, having never mastered eating fried rice with the chopsticks.

Trays are available, for those who don't wish to balance everything.

Mallory waits at the table, sipping his drink. If it were a diet coke, he'd probably look a little too much like a teenaged girl on a diet.

<<GAME>> Arcangel rolls the d666 and gets 4 5 CHECK: 3.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Fortunately, no Team members show up to harass Mallory. Or hit on him."

<<OOC>> Tarot says "What about Triad? :)"

<<OOC>> arcangel snickers. "No triads in evidence..."

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Team members?"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "The IOU Team. Football, Meepsball..."

Hamilton pays for her food, puts everything on a tray and carries it back to the table.

Jolie also pays, having, fortunately, enough change left over from her glass fairy purchase. She gets a tray too, in immitation of Blaine. Getting back to the table, she slides into an empty chair, sets down the tray, and unwraps her chopsticks. She then displays great proficiency with them.

Mallory peers at Jolie with a bit of interest.

Jolie smiles at him. "It's quite good. Would you like some, Mallory?"

Mallory says "Looks somewhat like pasta."

Hamilton uses the chopsticks to attack her moo goo gai pan. On first bite she says, "Mmmm... Just like home."

Jolie nods to Mallory. "It is." She offers him a small bite, with the chopsticks.

Mallory blinks at Blaine. "I had not realized you were Chinese, Mademoiselle," he chuckles.

Mallory leans over and takes a careful bite.

Hamilton grins. "My father frequently forgot to buy groceries. There was a Chinese place that delivered. Chinese and pizza were staple foods in my house."

Noodles in an orientalesque sauce, a bit of beef. Very fresh beef, really.

Mallory nibbles. "Hmm, I think I like it somewhat better than the drink."

Jolie asks, "Shall I fetch some for you, Mallory?"

Hamilton says "Or you could try a different dish."

Mallory says "Another time. I am not particularly hungry."

Hamilton says "And we could share around a bit."

Mallory isn't, either.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Of course not!"

Jolie nods and applys herself to her food, apparently enjoying it hugely.

Hamilton says "Would you like to try a bite of mine?"

Mallory smiles. "If you don't mind, I'd certainly like to try the taste."

Hamilton motions. "Moo goo gai pan-- chicken with various oriental vegetables, primarily Chinese cabbage; eggroll-- a pastry with vegetables and pork inside; fried rice-- rice in an oriental sauce.

Hamilton says "Try any you like. I'm unlikely to finish."

Mallory nods.

Mallory looks for an extra fork, and goes to retrieve one if there are none handy.

Jolie offers her chopsticks. There are also plastic utensils at nearly all of the various food-places.

Mallory says "Thank you, but I am not conversant with their use."

Mallory then goes to get a plastic fork, returning shortly.

Mallory takes small bites from Blaine's tray, in order of most-present to least present.

Jolie chases around a few individual grains of rice with her chopsticks, quite adeptly.

<<OOC>> Hamilton considers the name Urban Breed, smiling

Hamilton eats, like the waif she is.

<<OOC>> arcangel shakes a fist at Blaine. Thin people! Foo!

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "I know. They're disgusting."

Jolie eats happily, like someone who never heard of calories.

<<OOC>> Hamilton isn't IRL among their company

<<OOC>> Hamilton's sister is, however.

<<OOC>> arcangel shakes a fist.

Hamilton finishes with about half the food still on her plate, minus whatever Mallory had.

Jolie finishes all her food and leans back to savor her tea with a satiated smile.

<<OOC>> Mellor says "He's male. At this point he should say 'I'll finish that, if you don't want it'; :)"

<<OOC>> Tarot laughs.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "But that would ruin his girlish figure!"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "I'm sure he can think of a way to work it off."

Off on the fringes of the Food Court, an attractive young man in leather pants wanders, looking at the assembled diners with an expression rather like a wolf's looking at sheep.

Mallory has a few more bites of food, but hardly finishes. One would think he was on a diet.

Hamilton pages: And do we all see this?

You paged Hamilton with 'Oh, yes.'.

Hamilton considers the leather-clad fellow quietly.

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 3 2 CHECK: 2.

Mallory notices Blaine noticing the leather guy.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "The fellow is most definitely trying to be noticed, it would seem."

Mallory says "Who is that?"

Hamilton shrugs. "I have no idea. I was rather more noticing his expression..."

The leather-clad young man starts prowling through the aisles of tables, a slight smile upon his elegant features.

Mallory frowns slightly.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Suspicious people might think he was heading in their direction, even."

Mallory takes a sip from his drink, and then lowers it to the table with just enough force, and at just the right angle, to make a loud 'clap'.

The man looks over at the noise, less startled than someone who wasn't _really_ watching the person start to make the noise in the first place. His smile broadens just a trace, as he meets Mallory's eyes.

Mallory's eyes narrow slightly.

Hamilton says "It appears he may know you...""

Mallory says "Apparently. Jolie, stay here."

It becomes more obvious that the man is heading towards the group. He has a definite swagger, and the tightness of his clothing leaves little of his musculature to the imagination.

Mallory says "You as well, Mademoiselle."

Jolie sips her tea and nods. But does shift to a better viewing angle.

Mallory rises from his chair, and steps away from the table, towards the man.

The man's grin becomes positively welcoming.

Mallory smiles politely back, although it doesn't reach anywhere near his eyes.

The pair meet next to one of the trash containers. The man is, annoyingly, several inches taller than Mallory, and he looks down with a smug expression. "Hi, there," he says, with what Mallory is quite capable of recognizing as a bedroom voice.

Mallory says "Monsieur. I do not believe we've been introduced."

The man continues to smile. "A horrible oversight I'd like to correct. Call me Leonardo."

Hamilton observes quietly, inventorying what she might have to hand for a weapon.

Jolie finishes her tea and tidies the dishes.

Mallory nods. "Mallory. Are you with the university?"

Leonardo shakes his head. "No -- are you a student there?"

Mallory says "Ah. The mall staff then, perhaps?"

Leonardo shakes his head again. "Definitely not. I just like to -- see who's new around." He makes it sound like an invitation.

Mallory says "I see."

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 2 4 CHECK: 1.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Bah. Not a useful PER roll."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "What were you trying to Per?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "Him, for anything particularly unusual. Like, say, is he human."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "No way to tell, really -- he doesn't seem to have the Aura Discord, certainly."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "If you want to tell if he's human, you could always try breaking him a little. O:>"

Hamilton says in a low voice to Jolie, "I don't believe he's interested in *fighting* with Mallory."

Jolie says, "I didn't think he was."

Hamilton says "Unfortunately, I think he has mistaken Mal's gender..."

Jolie blinks. "Oh dear. I think Mallory gets upset when that happens."

Hamilton nods. "The one time I saw it, he did, yes."

Mallory says "I am currently under the auspices of the university, yes."

Mallory 's voice is a bit tight, and a bit high.

Which makes it a rather nice, if strained, alto.

Leonardo makes a tsking noise. "They're so uptight on-campus sometimes. But there are some nice off-campus places... I could show you a very nice little restaurant. Your friends, too," he adds, with a little motion of his nicely-shaped chin.

Mallory says "You have some...difficulties with the campus administration?"

Leonardo shrugs, muscles in evidence beneath his shirt (which is, on closer examination, apparently silk). "They told me not to go on-campus, last year."

Jolie asks Blaine, "Is he going to get in trouble if he kills this other person?"

Hamilton says "I would expect so, yes. Murder is generally frowned upon, even in America."

Jolie frowns. "You may want to remind him of this."

Hamilton nods and stands.

Leonardo smiles at Mallory, with dark bedroom eyes.

Mallory's expression changes, just a touch. It lightens, although only at the surface. "Barred from campus? *tch* You must be quite the rogue."

Leonardo smiles. His voice drops a trace. "Well, that's what all my friends tell me. Must be the leather and the fast car."

Mallory says "Ah, the the proper trappings for a rogue, in this day and age. And how did you come by them?"

Hamilton walks over to Mallory and drapes herself over him. "Mallory, dear, let's leave. I was *so* wanting to show you that little item I bought at Victoria's Secret..."

Mallory says "A mere moment, Mademoiselle."

Leonardo blinks, then smiles at both Blaine and Mallory.

Hamilton's voice is a tad whiny and she sounds like an airhead...

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "She is a blonde, after all... ;>"

Mallory has, in his view, just given Leonardo deadly insult. One gentleman does not ask about the income of another. Let's see if Leonardo bites, or if he's too dull to do so.

<<OOC>> arcangel chuckles.

Mallory curls one arm around Blaine in a surprisingly sensual hug/caress of the 'She's -mine-' type.

Leonardo says, in response to Mallory, "Oh, here and there. I do... photography. Would you and your friend be interested in posing for me sometime?"

Hamilton leans in and whispers, breathily in his ear, "We want to have time before class, you know... just in case..."

Mallory smiles softly. "That's the second time today I've been offered the position. One would think it was a common hobby."

Leonardo pauses. Something in his eyes sharpens. "Oh? And who else was offering that?"

Mallory is amused. He did everything but inquire if Mal wanted to see his collection of ancient roman statuettes from the temple of Venus.

Mallory shrugs it off. "Another photographer, no doubt. Possibly with similar trappings. I did not see the car." He smiles knowingly.

Hamilton whines, "Malllloryyyy... We gotta go sooon..."

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Phew. ;)"

Leonardo asks, "Was this on-campus?"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Clearly, he works for the Game."

<<OOC>> Mellor says "(It's the leathers)"

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Well, despite the leather, he's obviously NOT a Malak."

Mallory says "I was under the impression that the artists at the university were able to obtain sufficent subjects for their works."

Mallory gives another slight smile. "Your pardon, Monsieur. As my friend says, we have a prior engagement. You are often here?"

Leonardo nods. "Oh yes. I can give you my card, too. Drop in sometime. With your friends, alone..." He shrugs, muscles doing things that would be interesting if Mallory were human fem, probably.

Mallory smiles. "That would do nicely. Alas, I'm without proper cards, so please forgive me if I don't offer one of my own."

Leonardo produces, from a rear-pocket in his leather pants, a single card. It has a set of numbers, in white on black background, and the name Leonardo Gallo.

Mallory looks over the man's stance. Does he look like he's been trained in combat.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Gimme a roll. Big bonuses."

<<GAME>> Mallory rolls the d666 and gets 1 5 CHECK: 4.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Definitely not combat-trained."

Mallory takes the card without touching the man. Habit.

Mallory says "Merci."

Leonardo tries to brush his fingers across the back of Mallory's fingers as Mal takes the card, anywa.

Mallory flicks his fingers down, as if in a feint.

The contact is avoided. Leonardo then smiles at Blaine. "A pleasure to meet you both," he murmurs.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "So, what are the current relations between Lust and The War, again?"

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Hostile covers it."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Mutual Hostile, even."

Mallory says, voice almost crooning, "I'll be in touch. Come along, Mademoiselle."

Mallory leads Blaine away, somehow managing to keep his distance and never quite turn his back to the guy.

Leonardo gives a slight bow, and drifts off, stalking like a predator.

Mallory murmurs to Blaine, "You should not have come, Mademoiselle. It would be safer for his attention to be fixed on me."

Hamilton says "His attentions were fixed on all of us already. And I have my ways..."

Mallory chuckles softly, his arm still around her, "No doubt."

Mallory says "Come, let us collect Jolie and our things, and return to campus."

Jolie has all the trays and disposable dishes arranged neatly and is waiting patiently.

Mallory says "We can return another day for Jolie's work outfit."

Mallory smiles rather more kindly, "And you did promise me a show."

Hamilton says "Indeed, I did..."

Jolie looks up as the pair get back, noting Mallory's arm around Blaine without her expression changing from mild interest.

<<OOC>> Tarot | Hamilton . o 0 ( I'm sure I can work out ways to summon and bind incubi. To the trained sorcerer, anything is possible! )

Mallory doesn't feel the need to explain himself, but he does disentangle himself from Blaine, and help Jolie with the packages.

Packages are gathered and distributed about people's persons.

Hamilton says "So much fun to play the bimbette, somtimes."

Mallory ponders acquiring a pair of sunglasses.

Mallory chuckles. "With his kind, it's best for a woman to be underestimated, I agree."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Mallory will have seen that there are sunglasses stores in the Mall."

<<OOC>> arcangel grins.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

Hamilton checks her watch.

<<OOC>> arcangel says "It's getting close to the time when people might want to catch a bus back to campus, to allow for delays."

Mallory picks up a pair of inexpensive but effective mirrorshades. They just contribute to the cool, androgynous look.

Mallory says "Jolie, we will return another day to complete your wardrobe. I would suggest, for the moment, that you not come alone."

Jolie nods. "I do not think I'd like to face this place alone anyway, whether there were ... dangers or not," she murmurs.

Hamilton nods vigourously. She has seen how clueless Jolie is.

Mallory smiles, looking a bit reassuring.

Jolie smiles up at Mallory, meltingly.

Mallory says "I believe the second infernal contraption awaits us."

Jolie blinks. "Infernal contraption?"

Mallory says "The bus."

Jolie makes a small cringing motion. "Oh. That."

Mallory looks to be of tolerably good humor.

Jolie says, "Is it really infernal?"

<<OOC>> Mallory says "You can probably imagine what the first infernal contraption is."

<<OOC>> arcangel says "The Elevator!"

Hamilton grins and in her best bimbette whine says, "Come on, Mallory..." and smiles again.

Mallory chuckles. "Doubtful, Jolie."

Jolie looks relieved.

Mallory says "Although I'll take no wagers on the elevator at our residence."

Jolie says, "I think I like the stairs..."

Hamilton blanches a bit at the thought of climbing 13 sets of stairs...

Mallory smiles again, and lets Blaine lead the little band back to the bus stop.

Mallory says "It is, if nothing else, excellent exercise."

The Mall is somewhat more crowded by this time, including packs of young humans (of indeterminate gender) in baggy clothing; young girls in tight, bright clothing; and the roving group of elderly people with canes who seem to be Walking A Mall For Their Health.

Mallory admires the prettiest of the girls, although he has the good taste to be somewhat circumspect about it.

Hamilton keeps an eye out as the travel to the exit where the bus stop to the university is.

That Mallory might be catching a few admiring glances himself is something that he doesn't think about much.

Several of the girls look at Mallory -- some perplexed, some envious, and some admiring. So do several of the baggy-clad beings.

<<OOC>> arcangel grins.

The leather-clad Leonardo does not appear to be following the group. They reach the bus-stop without incident.

Hamilton waits for the bus.

Mallory looks about. "The barrier is not required here, to signal it to stop?"

Hamilton says "Well, it shouldn't be required anywhere."

Mallory says "Ah. The University is unusual in this respect, then?"

Mallory does not seem particularly disturbed by this.

Hamilton says "It's just a wise precaution. Some of the drivers just like to keep on going."

Hamilton says "I suppose the university is a bit unusual this way, yes."

Mallory nods.

Mallory says "What did you think of the mall, Jolie?"

Jolie looks thoughtful. "Big."

Mallory chuckles.

Mallory says "I'd agree."

Mallory thinks a bit wistfully about the italian suits. "We will come back soon."

Jolie looks over her shoulder, to where the Mall towers above. "That will be nice."

Mallory then ponders what he'll do when he returns to campus. Perhaps Madame di Ordo's secretary knows something about this Gallo rogue.

Hamilton says "It's rather fun once you get used to it."

<<OOC>> Tarot thinks Mallory is going to have to get a job to pay for this. ;)

<<OOC>> Mallory could model for Gallo. ;)

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Model for Deborah. It's safer. :)"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "For all concerned."

<<OOC>> Mallory chuckles.

Jolie nods to Blaine.

Mallory nods at Hamilton. "I have my doubts about some of the places, but one certainly cannot fault either the amount or range of choices.

Mallory is of the opinion that the mall could teach those tasteless hacks in Shal-Mari a thing or sixteen about conspicuous consumption, even with all the Technology.

Mellor has reconnected.

Mellor has partially disconnected.

<<OOC>> Hamilton ;>

After about 10 minutes, the bus appears at the far end of the parking lot, screeching in, tipped at a 45-degree angle. It whomps to the pavement, swerves around a line of parked cars and pulls to a sedate stop. The doors open, and several shakey passengers debark.

Hamilton embarks, flashing ID and finding a seat near the front.

Mallory raises an eyebrow. Perhaps he was wrong about the infernal connection.

Mallory prepares to repeat his ID experience with Jolie.

The driver (not the one who brought them there) bounces in her seat. "IDs? IDs?" she asks, like an impatient bird.

Mallory presents his, and explains about Jolie.

The driver eyes Mallory and Jolie. "Yeeeeaaaahhhh, right. Whatever. C'mon, c'mon, don't block the aisle."

Mallory moves backwards, and sits, bags piled about.

Jolie sits next to Mallory, and clutches the bag with her glass fairy. Other passengers get on, with greater or lesser degrees of alarm.

Eventually, the doors close, and the bus zooms off in a way that all but defies the laws of momentum.

<<OOC>> Hamilton says "Ofanite at the wheel..."

<<OOC>> Tarot is imagining this 45-degree leaning back in the air.

The bus does, indeed, lean again as it turns out of the parking lot and onto the road. Jolie whimpers and clutches Mallory's arm.

<<OOC>> Mallory imagines that was more to one side.

Mallory curses under his breath and works on his bland expression. The sunglasses help some.

Hamilton clutches packages about her, to be sure they're not lost.

Despite the speed, the passing of a sports-car with a very surprised bleached-blond wench in it, the occasional shrieks from the back of the bus, and the fast breaking near a police car, the trip is accomplished safely, and soon everyone is being let out at the stop near unto Monty Hall.

<<OOC>> Tarot says "Braking or breaking? :)"

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Braking."

<<OOC>> Tarot thinks that's a Freudian slip.

<<OOC>> arcangel smacks her fingers. Bad fingers. Don't reveal the GM's thoughts.

Mallory helps Jolie off and makes sure all the packages make it along. Fortunately, he seems rather good at doing two or three things at once.

Jolie hurries off the bus, packages clutched tightly.

<<OOC>> Mallory says "How are we doing for IC and OOC time?"

<<OOC>> arcangel is fine with OOC times. IC times probably have an hour or two.

Mallory mentions brightly to Jolie, "Strangely enough, I still prefer it to the elevator. At least one can see out of it."

Jolie shivers. "I don't like either."

Mallory nods, and says drily, "Neither is my first choice either. Perhaps I can garner the use of one of these automobiles at some point."

Hamilton smiles, arranges packages and sets off across campus.

Jolie looks at the bus. "A smaller one?"

<<OOC>> Mellor says "Maybe that nice man will give you a ride in his fast car..."

Mallory says "More like a private carriage."

Mallory points out a few of the private cars.

Jolie nods, slowly. "Ah. Yes, those seem more... wieldy. Though a good horse..." She sighs wistfully.

Hamilton pages: We haven't played it out, but I'm assuming Blaine read the assignment last night, probably while doing laundry with Leo

Long distance to Hamilton: arcangel nods. "That sounds reasonable, yeah."

Mallory says "Would be frightened out of its meagre wits."

Jolie thinks this over. "True."

Mallory offers Jolie the choice of elevator or stairs.

Monty Hall looms ahead. And... the elevator of Doom.

<<OOC>> Hamilton wonders what's up with pine. It's been switching mailboxes now for 5 minutes...

<<OOC>> arcangel says "Eeee."

<<OOC>> Mallory says, with an absolutely straight face, "Perhaps it is in emotional distress over the lack of its native fjords."

<<OOC>> arcangel groans.

<<OOC>> Tarot giggles.

<<OOC>> Hamilton smacks Mallory.

Hamilton chooses elevator.

Mallory says "Thank you very