Chapter LI - Not Without a Clause ~Multehx

Jaded rubbed his jaw, frowning as he never bargained for that blow. Still, he deserved it. He grinned to himself, rustling some coins newly present in his pocket. He wasn't sure of the currency, but money was money to him. He'd find some planet to change them on. But still, that was a cheap shot…

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CR wasn't too sure how it happened, but he turned his head, and there was Jaded. He blinked, then cleared his throat and said, "Ehm, Jaded, nice to make your acquaintance again."

The tall, well-built man waved a hand. "Forget about it, Cos. This isn't a long stay. I only intend to remain in your presence until one of your travelers leads me to something I want. You'd try and beat me there if you knew of it."

CR raised a brow slightly. "You mean...a Creation's Weapon?"

Jaded grinned, folding his arms. "Could be...you'd love to know, wouldn't you?"

The Rip Watcher shook his head. "Yes, and you must love it that I can't find out from you...exchanging the bullets that were prize for the hunter competition of ‘89 for a mental wall to keep your mind unreadable…you still pride yourself, don't you?"

Jaded grinned behind the bandanna and nodded.

CR shook his head, grinning. "You bastard, you never change."

Jaded began to say something, then turned, looking down slightly. Ian was leaning against the wall there, arms crossed as well. The mercenary half chuckled, turning to CR again. "He's getting good, you know that?"

"Yes, really is. But we're not through the waters yet. Though he buried it and refuses to awaken it, the Time Bender still has a hold on him through it, and having him here both gives us a fighting chance, and damns us all."

Ian looked at the ground for a time, and Jaded grinned.

"You'd have it no other way, would you?"

CR shook his head. "Nah." He looked over to Ian. "This one fascinates me. We've had our close calls, but we tend to make it out intact."

The mercenary shrugged and walked over to the engine window. He stared out at the stillness for a bit.

"Do you really still believe in..." He trailed off, shaking his head. "No, forget it; I'll take my leave now."

As he headed for the passenger car, CR asked, "What do you plan to do now?"

His reply came almost instantly. "I'll be gone before even reaching the other car. If you need me...nevermind…I'll know when you need me."

He grinned to himself and was gone in no time.