A Hero’s Journey

Summer 2021, Week 5

Wednesday morning

William Side Diner, Museum District

Storyteller

The diner had been screened by one of the two police standing outside of the diner. Customers were allowed to enter and eat, but they wanted to make sure that there wasn't anything crazy going on. It wasn't needed. It wasn't like it was a normal public official coming down. It was Victory. The bullet proof, flying, smiling faced Victory. Protestors, fans, neither would matter that much.  

Victory

The Chief had arranged for an interview to be conducted between a local journalist and Andre to help with AERI's public image. The location chosen was a well know, but very local diner that would set a comfortable tone. Everything was prepared. Minus the journalist of course, but as the Chief said, 'If you can handle Bolt but can't handle questions, then I don't know how to help you.' It was set for 10am, but he landed at 10:05. Can't not finish training after all.   Landing on the path outside of the diner that joined the parking lot, his boots clicked on the concrete as he approached the door. He was wearing his regular uniform now. The black pants and boots, and gold accented Kevlar weave t-shirt--so it didn't rip. Walking up to the door, he gave the officers a wave. "Are they already here?" He could see through the glass door and saw people already staring at him. Giving a wave, he looked around the diner at the same time. He did a double take on the bear sculptures, and moved to look at them a bit closer. So well done. So...majestic.  

Percival Palomo

It's a lovely day out! Ah, this breeze is so nice in my hair-- Happiness. Well, that was understandable. It was fairly cool this morning. Shit shit shit, I'm late, I need to hurry up- Panic... Ugh, one of his least favorite emotions to absorb. I haven't slept for twenty hours... Ugh, you'd think teachers would give less work after the last few weeks- Nothing like a good dose of exhausted annoyance. Relatable. RIP. Holy shit, is that an Evo? Wait- fuck- look away- The absolute worst. Shock combined with a sudden embarrassment, mixing with the other emotions to make a gross mix that pulled Percy in fifty different directions.   ...Fucking hell. It wasn't easy to get Percy out of the house for this exact reason.   One hand came up to rub at his temple, the other carefully pushing open the door to the cafe, taking a step in and allowing himself to relax slightly in the diner's more muted atmosphere. He had dressed moderately nicely- a nice button up, a nice blazer- both carefully tailored to allow room for his wings. Blue eyes flicked around, struggling to remember his objective between the developing migraine and the flood of continued thoughts. The angel-like Evo stepped in, letting the door fall closed behind him. Icy eyes drifted down to his phone, clicking it on momentarily to check the time.  

9:55am.

Good. He was early. Perfect.   Continuing to rub at his temple, he strode up, got his table, and made his way over, attempting to ignore the glances and thoughts of the other patrons. Tired eyes stayed half-lidded as always as he settled down in his chair, shifting uncomfortably with how cramped his wings were.   Ah, yes. Chairs. The bane of my existence.   Finally getting comfortable, the man lifted a hand again, continuing to nurse his achy head as he waited- barely processing the passage of time. And as the time ticked on, he finally looked up, looking tired.  

10:05am.

Well, hopefully they'll be here soon.   And right on cue, someone notable popped up. Someone with boots, a uniform, and a very official presence. The tired-looking man glanced up, brushing a hand through white hair before raising it, giving a loose wave. That had to be him, right? There was an interview- and this was a good opportunity for Perce. Of all the people, he was picked for the task. If anything, it might help him out in some way or another when it came to his reputation in the town. New job offers? New opportunities? He'd be down for anything, honestly.  

Victory

Movement through the glass of the diner caught his attention and ripped it away from the artistry that was this bear bush. Seriously, what a random location and insanely well done. Had Andre been listening, he would have heard the officer say ‘Yes’ in reply to his question earlier, that’s neither here nor there. Stepping through the open door with one last look back, Andre found the inside of the diner to be cozy. Why haven’t I ever come here? Because you’re famous now and you can’t go anywhere, his mind answered. That and you don’t ever not work. A nearby waitress gestured him to the table the wave had originated from, and as he moved Andre tracked the looks. Some where in awe. Some a neutral interest. Only a few felt anything close to adverse. Thats why we’re here.   His sunset eyes did a quick examination of the reporter and the award winning smile started to spread with a hint of sheepish apology. “I’m sorry I’m late. Had to handle an incident on the way over. You haven’t been here long, have you?” I really hope he wasn’t waiting long. I knew I shouldn’t have stopped at the sirens. It was just a car accident. Thanks to his time spent with his resident mental invader, Andre’s thoughts were a bit more organized than others. More like complete sentences rather than partial phrases. Originally it was to talk to Sloane telepathically, but now he just found it useful for keeping mental notes in order. were clear, thanks to time spent with Sloane and a knowledge of how to keep mental notes in order. Granted if he was aware of a nearby Pather he’d try some of the tricks she suggested to hide those thoughts. But this was an interview and the thought of that alone sent his mind racing.   Noticeably, his thoughts about the reporter were few. A quick recollection of the term for Evos with physical evolutions. An appreciation for the tailors blazer. Trying to recall the name the Chief had said. But judgment? Hostility? Not from Andre.   Sighing to himself, he shook his head. “My manners, I’m starting to assume people know me. That’s terrible isn’t it? Sorry. I’m Victory, it’s great to meet you.” Holding out his hand, the hero waited. In his mind all that was heard was a constant repeat of Dont use your strength. Don’t break anything. Don’t break someone. The struggle the man went through in every interaction with people being made a bit clearer to Percy if he was tuned in.  

Percival Palomo

Andre arrived, and Percy gave a gentle nod of greeting as he approached- quickly looking over the man. There was the briefest moment of focus as Andre drew closer, the Pather quickly taking note of the lack of disorganization. Definitely a good sign. Of course, he wouldn't be deliberately trying to pry into the man's mind, but the organization made it slightly less of a headache to deal with. The thoughts of those around him brushed the corners of his mind. If he hadn't known Andre was someone influential, he did now. The mixed awe and intrigue was palpable to the empath, and was something he tabled for now in favor of his work.   Another moment, and he focused a bit on Andre's thoughts. Thoughts of his powers, thoughts of concern about car accidents... That was understandable. Of course, as easygoing and laidback as the angelic Evo was, he didn't find himself minding much. Things happened. Hell, Perce would understand- he had to leave early just in case there was an issue on the way here. Getting overwhelmed in the middle of the street wasn't the goal of his day, but it was something that happened occasionally. Thank fuck that didn't happen today.   "No worries," He finally spoke, his voice smooth and calm- it had a certain tone to it, somewhat sleepy and clearly relaxed, "Gave me time to find the perfect table. Every good interview also needs a perfect atmosphere, and I think this table fits the bill." He hummed, a tired smile slipping onto his face. Without hesitation, he met the man's hand with his own, shaking it firmly and professionally. If anyone understood power struggles, Percy did. Especially considering he struggled with his on an unfortunately regular basis.   "Percival Palomo, pleased to meet you." Spoken as professionally as always. He withdrew his hand, leaning back in his seat- his wings shifted a bit more, tail tapping rhythmically against the chair's leg, almost as if he were counting something. After another moment of lifting his hand to his head, rubbing at his temple again, he reached down, removing a small journal and pen from the bag at his side. Setting both objects on the table before him, he glanced up at the man before him, that sleepy look still on his face.   "Well, shall we begin? A lot's happened in the last few weeks, I've heard quite a bit."  

Victory

Getting through another handshake for the day without resulting in a crushed hand, he repeated the name to commit it to memory. “Percival. Got it.” Being a journalist looks almost as tiring as being a fire fighter. Or a AERI member. Andre smiled mentally at the thought when he registered the slightly sleepy tone and look. He grabbed the back of his chair and barely caught himself before he whipped it against the far wall. Sliding it, slowly, he eventually took a seat and crossed his fingers. Glancing up, he hoped to catch the eye of the waitress to ask for some coffee. Nectar of the gods. Meanwhile he spoke in the meantime with a smile that could be seen even as his head was turned.   “You could say that.” For such a large man, his slightly accented voice wasn’t too deep. For a hero it wasn’t too preachy. It was more conversational. Relaxed. “There’s a lot we could talk about. From being an Evo, to joining AERI, to…the Battle in Henry.” There was a slight pause in his voice then while at the same time his thoughts got sporadic for a fraction of a second.   And just like summer lightning, the thoughts and pause were gone. “I’m not sure what would be the most interesting for your readers. I’m sorry to say but I’m still not used to this whole Hero interview thing. Or hero thing. Or interview thing.”  

Sofia Taylor

It’s raining men! Hallelujah!   With angels walking into her diner and men falling from the sky, the red-headed waitress knew that today was going to be one of those days when she was going to be a total wreck. Not because they were Evos; one familiar and the other well, not to judge a book by its covers, but look at that cover! And not because these two were responsible for the added security, the officers out front, that would have her customers gossiping amongst themselves for the next few weeks. No, dear Lord. Her reasons were much shallower than that. Sofia’s one weakness was attractive people, and boy, these two were definitely that.   The waitress took a deep breath to calm her nerves and approached the two men with a bright smile fixed upon her lightly freckled face. “Welcome, welcome. What can I get started for you two? Drinks?” Amid the questions, she set two menus and napkin wrapped cutlery in front of them. She was the embodiment of a professional worker …on the outside. On the inside, she was at war with her inner teenager and all that hormonal bullshit that came with it, with a mantra put on repeat. Look at their eyes. Don’t bite your lip. Woman, control yourself. Breathe in, breathe out. Don’t say anything stupid.   The other Pather might notice that he couldn’t read anything off of her, thoughts nor emotions. Granted, it wasn’t difficult to see that she was somewhat nervous. There was a soft tremble in her hands as she had placed those menus, almost a quiver in her voice as she asked them what they wanted, and the beginning of a blush blooming on her face.  

Percival Palomo

Coffee. At the thought of that, the pather seemed to perk up a bit. Ah yes, the sweet, sweet taste of that beloved bean juice that made it that much easier to get through his days. His information-stuffed mind seemed to clear, if only for a moment, at the prospect of something warm and sweet. A nice blend, maybe? He had this delicious white chocolate raspberry mocha not too long ago, and damn that sounded good right about now.   Oh yeah. Interview. Focus, Percy.   With a deep breath, he readjusted his posture, folding opalescent wings in a bit more and making himself fit in the space he had chosen to occupy. If someone looked close enough, the mild discomfort was clear in semi-ruffled feathers and stuffy looking wings, a feathered tail coiled tightly around one chair leg to keep it out of the way of being stepped on. He was very aware of the glances. Being so obviously an Evo sucked at times. Those times being, like, always. Oh well.   Either way, he could judge with ease that Victory was a person who genuinely wanted to do their best, someone who wanted to protect those around them with their genetics-given powers. And sure, it was valiant- Percy would admit that. However, it was also dangerous and hard on someone mentally- easily told by the sporadic nature of his thoughts for a split second.   "True, there's quite a bit," He spoke calmly, taking a moment to focus on hearing his own thoughts, "I think being an Evo would make an interesting topic. Many Evos are still in hiding, I think getting a perspective piece from an Evo in a more public position may give them some hope, or at the very least, a glimmer of hope for improvement in the future." A pause, and he continued, "No need to worry about making things interesting. Putting the piece together is my job. Just relax, and stay authentic. Don't overthink." Big words, coming from him. Haha. Don't overthink.   Golden eyes slid over to Sofia as she approached, and his initially sleepy look changed to one more welcoming- a warm smile on the journalist's face a he gave her a gentle nod. And then, a moment of pause. Huh. He didn't hear anything from her other than her voice.   ...How curious.   "Oh, good morning," He started, a welcoming, warm tone in his voice, "Do you happen to have some sort of chocolate raspberry coffee? That would be lovely, if possible, thank you." Another pause, and he gave a slightly bigger smile, awkward, but sweet. "I'm Percival, by the way. It's a pleasure to meet you, this is a lovely establishment."  

Victory

"I think I can do that." Looking back at Percival, he seemed to organize his thoughts briefly before just letting it roll out as it came. "I can't say I had it too hard growing up. I grew up in New Orleans with my Mom and sibling, and we had a decent enough life as far as the Evo situation went. Money was tight. Mom worked two jobs before--" Before she got sick. "Before I moved out. As far as being an Evo, I didn't have any obvious signs. At least not until I got older and got...well...huge. Oh, save these." He pointed to his eyes which were a common sign of being an Evo. The vibrant color like a sunrise. "Most people just assumed I had a rare hazel so it was easy to shrug off. Still, Mom had a feeling. And sure enough, I got my strength when I was 11. My other powers came in at 13."   His eyes went distant for a moment as a true hint of a smile came on his face. "I remember the day. My Mom sat me down, wrapped her arm around me and kissed my head. She said, 'Dre, baby, you're special. But you can't let other people know that. They won't treat you kindly.' I took her word for it. Any kid would have, right? So from then on, I hid who I was." Hid who I could be to keep them safe. "It was hard at first. I had to watch the other kids to find out how strong I should be at that age. It was a constant learning curve. Do I throw the ball harder or softer. Should I be able to lift this weight. What sort of expression should I make when someone hits me. It was hard." That wasn't true. Compared to having his sister hide who she was, who she could be, it was the easiest thing in the world. The meeting with Tiana, her pain, nagged at him still. And without a means to address it by talking to her--   "After college I moved to New Victoria. Even before it had Sanctuary status it was a bit more friendly towards Evos, you know? I started at the Fire Department hoping I could help people. And I did. I enjoyed it." Memories of his friends at the Department flashed through his head. "I was good at it too. Never lost a person we arrived on time for. Never had to use my powers with a team that skilled. Until--well, there was a day though...this family was trapped in a burning building. We couldn't get them out. Not through conventional means. But I--I could get them out. If I just embraced who I was. And I did. I took down the door, walked passed the flames, and got all of them out safely."   "I'm strong. I'm sturdy. I can fly. I have all these gifts I was born with that could help people. But I hid from it. Not without reason. All Evos know the reason. That day though...the day I took a risk and exposed who I was to save those people. I wouldn't trade it in for anything." He had started looking at his hands at some point during the story and turned his head back up. "For nearly two decades I hid who I was because that's what they wanted us to do. But here, today, I wear this uniform and get to use my abilities to save people. I get to meet in a diner with a fellow Evo and talk about our lives. It's not perfect, it might not ever be. I think...well, I think when we have allies who give us the space to embrace ourselves and then when we each arrive at the point where we can...that'll give us that better future."   The last few sentences of his story ended as the waitress walked up. He greeted her with a radiant smile as his eyes picked up the name on her name tag--Sofia, before taking the offered items in his hand to rearrange. As Percival ordered, he positioned the menu and cutlery in front of him. Once it was his turn, he turned back to her, kind of enjoying the chance just to be a normal customer out for breakfast again. When was the last time you went out anywhere, Andre? "Hi, Sofia. Can I just get a black coffee with one sugar. And while we have you, what would you recommend for us to eat?" Looking over at the journalist, he grinned, "It's on AERI, so we might as well get the best."  

Sofia Taylor

Oh dear God. It should be illegal to be that good-looking. Both of their smiles were disarming, and it had the now flushing waitress pausing in the middle of – What exactly was she doing again? Light green eyes wavered between the two men for a couple of seconds as she floundered for a response, lost in the aura of their beauty, while her brain tried its best to reboot as quickly as possible. You’re the worst waitress in the world. Just end it already and tell Bob you’re quitting.   “I, uh…” The woman’s voice wobbled at first and then with a clearing of her throat, the sign of her self-respect returning, she reached into her apron and pulled out an order pad. A pen was taken from behind her ear, and it was like she was in control of herself again. “I–Yes. Percival, I’m delighted to make your acquaintance, and I’ll let Bob know how you feel about the place. He’s a sucker for compliments and might even give you both a discount. Isn’t that right, Bob?” She had raised her voice whilst speaking about Bob, the question tossed over her shoulder.   The diner had an open kitchen and that enabled anyone to see Bob, the owner and the master chef, hard at work. A metal spatula equipped in each hand, the old man was a magician when it came to diner cuisine and easily churned out delicious, cooked foods on the fly. The man never ever seemed to get swamped with orders. Bob gave a humorless grunt in reply.   Sofia chuckled mischievously and then started scribbling on her pad. “I’m certain we have the ingredients on hand for a chocolate raspberry coffee, so that’s easily doable. Black coffee with one sugar. And as for recommendations, the world is your oyster.” Her nose crinkled up with her playful smile. “Well, except for oysters. Bob isn’t a fan of shellfish, so you won’t find any on the menu.” She paused for a moment, tapping the end of her pen against her chin as she thought about what to suggest. “If you’re hungry, we have a giant platter just simply stacked with pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and three eggs that are cooked however you want. If breakfast food isn’t your thing, we do serve sandwiches and burgers of all sorts. Those come with a side of fries, soup, or salad. Personally, I am a fan of the Monte Cristo sandwich. Ham, turkey, gruyère on sourdough, dipped in an egg batter and then grilled to perfection. Raspberry jam on the side. Mmm.” All this talk about food had the woman’s stomach grumbling, and she smiled sheepishly. “Well, I know what I’m ordering for my lunch break.”  

Percival Palomo

Thoughtful, attentive nodding accompanied some intense note-taking, his gaze going between meeting the other Evo's, and looking down at his paper. For the majority of Victory's story, Percy seemed to be leaning forward, looking at the other Evo attentively- but, his notes seemed completely in order- staying on the marked lines of his notebook as his pencil scribbled rapidly to keep up with the man's words. Was this perhaps another Evo power? The ability to speed-write legibly?   ...Nah, he just had nice handwriting, and a good sense of where he was on the page.   It was easy to catch the thoughts sandwiched between his story, but he wouldn't be one to overstep someone's privacy like that. He was certain that if anyone- especially his job- was aware of him being a Pather, they'd try to get him to use those powers to get the best inside scoop possible. Unfortunately for them, he had a solid moral code, and he wasn't about to violate that for the sake of a quick buck or two.   He initially didn't reply to the story- that was a private thing, and he'd thank Victory for being willing to divulge such a story in a moment, once present company had walked away. And besides, he was quite interested in the menu now that the other man mentioned it. Percy had been living off of coffee far too long to consider eating anything besides just that. Healthy? Probably not. But, it did keep him working, which was good.   "That'd be kind of him, but there's really no need. I wouldn't want to short anyone change-wise." And besides, this was on AERI. He smiled sheepishly, glancing back at the menu. He stayed quiet as Victory spoke- glad that present company likely couldn't sense how awkward he suddenly felt. Talking to more than one person at a time was not one of Percival's specialties.   "A Monte Cristo sandwich..." He echoed, golden eyes wide as he considered that. That probably wouldn't be great with a chocolate coffee, but a sandwich did sound good about now. And it'd definitely be alright with a raspberry coffee. Sweet sustenance... He'd love that. "That sounds delicious, honestly," He smiled softly, "I think I might have that, if that's alright. And a raspberry coffee, please." He set his menu down before he could change his mind for a third time. If this was all on AERI, he could probably order more- take some leftovers back to his apartment. But, ordering a metric ton of food didn't sound like the best idea, for the poor cook or for him.   He dropped quiet again. He'd say more, maybe, if he could, but he had never been the best with words. Instead, his wings ruffled a bit in his own embarrassment, looking back at his journal as he reviewed his notes. Might as well... Do that... He guessed?  

Victory

Choosing instead to listen to the recommendations as opposed to using the menu, he kept his attention on Sofia as she rattled off some very excellent sounding choices. He had skipped breakfast and lunch today to handle training....and dinner last night? When was the last time I ate? No matter, time to fix that issue. Hands crossed still on the table and his smile permanently affixed, he waited for Percival to order first. "Can I have that breakfast platter, please? You wouldn't believe how many calories you burn when flying." Apparently that wasn't a joke according to what he read from the library, a topic which still confused him. How do you burn calories by flying? "And also whatever the best dessert you have is, for three." Looking back at the journalist he grinned like a kid in a candy store, "I told my teammate I'd bring her back a snack. But we can have some too. Or just take it home."   Getting ready to hand the menu back to Sofia, he was distracted by a tiny tap on his leg. Looking over, he saw a young girl, no more than 7 or 8, with a complexion like his but blonde ringlets that framed her sharp features. Her father must be the man standing stopped in place a step or two away, likely just having failed from grabbing his daughter before she could come over. The girl seemed to have lost whatever courage she had, all rigid and stiff holding a--"Can I see that?" Slowly, the girl handed over a folded and nearly torn cover of a magazine released from the day he was announced as Victory. It couldn't be more than 2 or 3 weeks old, but the paper was handled so often it was already looking old. "What's your name?" A soft voice barely got out Alana. "Want to make a trade, Alana? How about you let me have this, and in return I ask your Pa to take a photo of me and you. Does that sound good?" The girl hesitated for a fraction of a second before nodding. Turning in his chair, Andre picket Alana up and sat her on his leg while the Father took way more than one photo.   The girl wrapped her tiny arms around him when it was done and sprinted to grab the phone and look at the photos with a grin on her face. "Sir, one second." He handed the father the magazine cover back, with his name signed on the bottom using a marker he kept in his cargo pants. "Can you hold onto this for her? For it she wants it later." The man nodded and proceeded to whisper something to Andre, which he nodded back to. A thank you and the interaction, which must have lasted for only two minutes, was over. Seeming to come back to his senses, he looked at the journalist. "I'm sorry, she reminded me--she was a fan I guess." Smiling it off, he finally handed Sofia the menu.  

Sofia Taylor

Sofia’s ovaries pretty much exploded as she watched Victory interact with the child, and she couldn’t help the soft, dreamy sigh that escaped her. Oh my god. How can he be so–Don’t you dare lose focus now. She quietly cleared her throat as she regained control of herself. Again. And once the scene with the father and daughter was finished, their menus taken and tucked under an arm, with Sofia glanced down at her order pad. “Mmm. Okay. So we have a Monte Cristo with a raspberry coffee and the breakfast platter. Plus our best dessert times three.” That would be their peach cream puffs, a lovely summer treat, and easy to transport to the other teammate. Or home. A pause would be given, just in case they wanted to modify their order.   Before she turned away to deliver the order to Bob, she leaned subtly over to Percival, her next words low enough, so the other customers in the diner wouldn’t overhear. “Also, if you want, I can exchange your chair for a stool..” Earlier she had noticed the restless shift of his wings, him searching for a more comfortable position,, and it hurt her to see him suffer like that. “..or, you guys can move over to the front counter and I can bring your food there. ” Sofia gestured to the aforementioned counter and gave a shrug. “In any case, if you choose one of those, or none at all, I just wanted to put the offer out there.” She’d patiently wait for an answer and then beam a smile before she left. “I’ll be back with your drinks.”  

Ilya Medvedev

The bear man was excited for his morning check in with his sweet lady waitress. Pulling up in his truck, he parked in the diner's lot and hyped himself up a bit. His hand slipped into the center console and pulled out his flask before he exited the truck. Walking up the walkway, something caught his eye on the topiary. "What is this? Leaf out of place?! No. No no no. Will not do. You need work, diner bear." He stepped into the mulch and began primping the topiary. When he got it to a satisfactory place, he stepped back and reviewed again, squinting his eyes. "Not good enough. Ilya will be back for you later. Coffee first."   He stomped his shoes on the sidewalk, ridding them of the dirt so as not to make a mess inside, pushed his hair behind his ear, and then pulled open the door to the diner. Just as with every other time, the scent of nature followed him in and announced his presence. He saw Sofia first, but she was busy getting drinks so he looked around to see if any of the other regulars. Then his eyes got wide as he bounded over to their booth.   "Golden flying man! You are here! In my diner! I see you on news. You do the city good. Very proud. Ilya thought of applying, but I have been busy. Lots of bears and bushes and bear bushes to see to. But Triple B is at your service. Just call. Chief has my number. Another good man."  

Percival Palomo

Oh, dessert? "Sounds good, I wouldn't be opposed." Anything tasty worked for him. For a moment, he found himself almost frustrated he couldn't poke into the waitress's mind- take a look at what that dessert happened to be. The fact he couldn't take a look was telling enough, though, his mind wandering throughout the diner all on its own as he subconsciously scanned the thoughts of everyone around him, his conscious mind desperately attempting to focus on the writing before him.   So much happened in only a few moments. During the instant he had lowered his head, finishing his scribbles, he glanced up to the man he had been speaking to. First there was a kid- and then the waitress had lowered her voice- he barely caught what she said, taking a moment to process it. Almost instantly, his wings stopped fidgeting- the man well aware of his subconscious shifting and moving. After a minute, he finally looked at her, responding with a soft, awkward, "Ah- yes, please. A stool would be lovely, thank you." That awkward smile only grew, sheepish at being caught in his discomfort.   Percy turned back to the man from where he had briefly spoken with Sofia, taking a deep breaths as he settled his hand above the page where he was writing, jotting a few quick notes as he tipped his head, noticing the hero now speaking to him. Remind you of someone, He completed on his own in his head- keeping that quiet thought to himself. Not that it was especially easy to think- the many minds around him all seemed to drift about, adding white noise in the background of his own mind.   "All good. It's not surprising- it's nice to see kids have a good role model." He hummed, looking back to his notes.   And then, someone new appeared. His presence was bold enough that Percy noticed it instantly- and even if he hadn't bounded over, the man's thoughts were enough to basically take Percy off-guard, flinching slightly at the sight of the man running up to them.   And then, he stopped. Whew. He took a deep breath, golden eyes wide as he glanced from the man, to Victory, to the man again, to Victory again, and he gave a gentle, awkward nod, almost unsure what to say. "Ah... Hello," He spoke softly- not condescending in the slightest- more curious, but shocked. Almost instantly- more out of confusion than anything else- he found himself starting to attempt to probe this man's mind, something new and confusing and- well- he had no clue who he was. Allegedly Ilya, as he said, but what about bears and bushes and bear bushes? Bear bushes? Bush bears?   He just sat there, looking somewhat like a startled chicken with ruffled feathers and wide, surprised eyes.  

Victory

Andre's eyes lingered on the young child, images of Tiana when she was that age flashing through his mind. So small yet so brave. Turning fully back to the Percival, he shrugged and gave a slightly shy smile. "If I'm honest, they're the real role models. Living as themselves, unafraid of being who they are." Pausing for a moment, he continued. "But if I can be a little bit of a beacon, I'll do my best. I'll strive to be someone worth looking up to."   Andre, like Percival, tracked the man as he bounded over and recognized him after a split second and stood. "Ilya." Holding his hand out for a shake, he smiled. "I've heard a lot about you from the Chief. It's an honor to finally meet a legend in the flesh. So many people owe you so much, for more than just your artistry." Tilting his head at Percival to give a slight suggestion he was presently otherwise engaged, he made sure to say, "We could use someone like you with AERI when the times get tough. Maybe I can set something up with the Chief and AERI and we can all have a sit down to discuss some possibilities. If you're up for it?"  

Storyteller

In between them talking and conducting the interview or whatever it was they were doing, the fiery haired waitress would return to their table a few times. First, to deliver their drinks, the coffees. That’s when she saw him, her face lighting up at the sight of the charming bear man; however, the morning crowd and the interview, which drew even more customers, kept her from stopping to say hello to him. Her second trip was for the stool for Percival and then finally, to bring their meals. The dessert was cream puffs filled with peaches that were roasted in brown sugar and vanilla and whipped cream. Though that wouldn’t show up until they were closer to finishing their food.  

Ilya Medvedev

"Golden man, no one owes Ilya anything. What I do is because of goodness. Not debt. But you saying you need Ilya? That is high honor for bear man. Have Chief call me, I will be there. Any day, any time. We will talk and plan. Maybe AERI needs bear bush in addition to bear man. Yes?" Only then did he seem to notice that Victory had company. "Ilya is being very rude and interrupting your meeting with friend."   He shifted his focus over to the new man. Ilya's appearance wasn't imposing in a man of strength way like Victory. He was lean, his musculature hiding under his work clothes. He had on coveralls this morning as he planned on getting messy once he got to the zoo. He searched the man's face and then stared into his eyes. There wasn't a challenge in the way he looked at Percy; no, he projected comfortability and confidence. "Ilya is very sorry, Mr...?"  

Storyteller

Percival takes the time to introduce himself to Ilya, before recalling the purpose for him being here today. Sharing this with Ilya, the beautiful creation realizes that he has intruded. Giving many sorries, he once again shakes Victory’s hand and slides a well designed card with a pressed image of a bear on the back and well designed bushes on the front, telling Victory to contact him at some point in the future. After that he takes a seat at the far end of the diner before diving into a conversation with their waitress and pulling out a flask before putting some white liquid into his coffee.   The interview continues. Percival seemed to have done his research on DeAndre Walker, asking questions about his normal life, the impact of American laws on his day to day and how limited he had to be to comply, the freedom he felt with New Victoria, why he signed up to be a part of AERI. So many questions. As Andre answered them, Percival wrote in his notebook and a crowd seemed to grow around them. The little girl who had seen Andre at first was sitting on the floor, listening as he talked and as Percival asked exactly the right follow up questions.   At the conclusion, both parties looked up to see their audience. Percival, not used to this, quickly stands and shakes Victory’s hand before excusing himself to finish the article. The hero stays and talks to a few of the customers before departing himself an hour later.   The resulting article, titled “A Hero’s Journey” results in the local paper having its highest sales in a decade, results in two crashed websites, and earns Perceval quite a bit of money. Enough to not have to worry about food for a while, and get some tailored jackets for his back.