ROAD TRIP- DALLAS AND ONWARD

[While Jackie, SFX and George took care of some business, Steve 
decided to experiment with his powers...and became trapped once again 
in a divergent personality. When the others return and find Steve 
missing, Jackie furiously decides she's had enough, and they get ready 
to leave.]

=======================================================
=======

[GM]

George starts the RV, while SFX looks out the window pensively.

"He mighta got in trouble or something," the kid says to Jackie. "I mean, 
he could've just taken off, sure, but maybe he changed into some other 
wierd form that decided to go wanderin' off. Sheesh, dude's gonna get 
himself killed, I guess you're right, it ain't our job to babysit some wacko 
who can't even control what his powers do to *himself*. Still, havin' 
someone like him wanderin' around on the loose is kinda troubling."

Then he says, "What the hell?" as two people come striding out of one 
of the hotel room, directly across the parking lot towards the RV.

The woman is tall, brunette, and utterly gorgeous. She's dressed in a 
stylish black, clingy designer outfit that doesn't seem to fit quite 
right...she keeps having to pull the bodice up because it's too large. In 
her hand, she's carrying a pair of wooden, Dutch-style shoes, which she 
regards with considerable disdain. Her skin is extremely pale, as if she's 
never been out in the sun. She has a commanding air about her, and 
strides up to the door of the RV with an expression of irritation.

Staggering out the door after her is a man whose clothes are barely 
staying on as well...in fact, he's having considerable trouble getting his 
pants and shirt to hold together; they seem to have fallen into pieces 
which he's trying to tie together with little strings. He has a confused and 
frantic look on his face.

His face does not match his body. His body is tall and powerful, a 
gorgeous match for the woman he's trying to follow, with smooth 
muscles rippling over a physique that's not even barely concealed by his 
ridiculous, tattered outfit, and Jackie feels an involuntary momentary 
increase in her pulse rate when he sees him....until she notices his 
head. It's the head of a balding middle-aged man with pudgy cheeks, 
and seems bizarrely unsuited to the body on which it's perched.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

       Slamming open the door to the RV, Jackie looks over the 
two trying to determine which one is Steven.
       "If one of you is Steven, you've got a LOT of explainin' to do, 
we were about to leave you here.  You leave again without listenin you 
are on your own, period.  If I tell you to stay put, you stay put!  I'm not a 
baby sitter, as it looks you need one.  Havin fun are you?  This better be 
real good! Real good!"

<><><><><>

Chaos:

**Damn, still haven't _quite_ got the hand of this.** she thinks as she 
tugs at the bodice and scowls and the shoes.

[Bodice just too big? Or did her body change?  And what of the other 
clothing?  Did she get that as intended?]

Listening to Jackies comments set her to chuckling.  No matter how 
badly Jackie exploded, Stephenie simply will _not_ lower herself to the 
level of actually arguing or, even getting mad, at a woman like _her_. 

"Dahling," she says to Jackie, "Do _I_ look like that pathetic boy 
Steven?  Reaally."  She indicates herself. "Seems he pissed off some 
mob men with _big_ guns and had to do a quick disappearing act.  It 
wasn't _quite_ what _he_ intended."  She laughs. "But, he _did_ finally 
got it right."

"This," she indicates Jason, "is my friend.  Not quite as wealthy as I'm 
used to, but..." she looks over his body from the neck to the feet, 
conspicously not looking at his face, then back at Jackie with a smug 
grin of anticipation, "rather nice body, wouldn't you agree?  He'll be 
coming with us.  We'll take the bedroom in back."  She says imperiously.

"Come along, Jason," she says to the man as she starts to walk into the 
RV, then pauses as she is face to face with Jackie and- staring directly 
into her eyes with every ounce of haunty, upper-class arrogance and 
touch of quiet menace, and says with a very insincere smile, "Oh, and 
Jackie, don't. you. EVER. give. me. an. order. or. use. that. tone. of. 
voice. with. me., again."

She then laughs again and, head held high, moves inside, gesturing for 
Jason to follow.  A look of utter disgust crosses her face when she sees 
the pit of an RV, but she just sighs.  "Oh," she calls back to Jackie, "in 
case you didn't notice, dahling, you not dealing with either than little 
whimp Steven or that fluff of a girl, Stephy.  Think of what I can do and 
ask yourself, wouldn't you really rather have me as a friend than an 
enemy?"

She then turns her back on Jackie again and simply moves to the back 
bedroom, Jason in tow.  She usher's him into the bedroom, then calls 
forward, "And, oh, yes, I expect a stop at Neiman-Marcus before we 
leave, say in about... an hour.  I simply _must_ get some descent 
clothes."  She then walks into the bedroom and closes the door behind 
her.

[Poor SFX... <g>]

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie stares in disbelief for about 1 second as "Stephy" makes 
her way to the door of the Rv, with her "chimp" in tow.  The metallic pit 
bull scampers up to the stairs into the RV and it's mouth widens treble 
the size of it's head, bear trap jaws gnashing.
       Jackie's jaw clenches and her teeth audibly grind, her anger 
is slowly burning to an overload, shiny metal spikes ripple over the dog's 
body.
   "I been called stupid before, in the can.  Almost got me killed. 
There, in this city, a few other places.  Stubborn as a mule, they called it. 
It's my life girl, my life to throw away.  You want thin's your way go and 
do them your way.  We got you out, that's what we planned on.  
Honeymoon's over girlie, you are out.  Take your pet chimp and hit the 
asphalt.
        Your power, my power, big deal.  I looked down the barrel 
before, I been left in an alley with my blood leakin' out and I didn't give 
up then.  You think it'll happen with you?!
         A snot?  A lil punk with a bit of juice.  Same as a kid with no 
brains and a gun, real tough guy.  Can't do the new math, but can snuff 
a life out like a candle.  Can't do the tough thin' makin' the hard way, 
only the easy, pullin a trigger.  You want to snuff me?  Do it.  But do it 
sane and stop hidin behind these damn masks.
      You want me Steven?  Come get me, as Steven.  Or will you 
have one of your schizoid avatars do the dirty?"
        Jackie lights up a cigar and draws the smoke in, as if for the 
last time.  Removing her jacket she throws it down and reveals sturdy 
dancers muscle under her khaki tanktop.  She blows the once stylish 
black hair out of her face, clearing the weary blue eyes for a full look.  
She looks very tired, a wary tired, the kind from too much adrenaline, 
caffeine, sugar and nicotine.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie stood before the door to the RV giving Jackie an appraising 
look. 

**How badly do I need these people?**, she thought.

"Jackie," she said in the most reasonable manner she could summon, 
"who ever called you stupid?  And, who said anything about throwing 
your life away?  Really, you look half dead.  Are you sure you're thinking 
straight?" 

"I told you-- I am _not_ Steven.  _He_ doesn't 'want' you.  If fact, he 
rather respects you in an odd way.  _He_ would apologise and take your 
jive.  Nor am I Stephy.  _She_ would probably break into tears and run 
to SFX." 

"This is _not_ a mask.  Nor am _I_ hiding anything.  _I_ am Stephenie.  
No more than Stephy was Steven or Paddington was either.  _I_ am, 
well, if not a _separate_ person, certainly a different one.  I have thier 
memories and... something of thierselves.  Quite a lot, actually.  But, _I_ 
am my own woman."

"No one wants to 'snuff' you.  You don't like being bullied.  You don't 
want _me_ telling _you_ when and how to wipe your nose.  Fine.  Do 
you think _I_ like _you_ doing the same to me?  You want _me_ to allow 
you to treat _me_ as you seem to think _I_ am treating you?"

"You didn't like prison?  Then why do you think you have the right to put 
me in your prison with you?  Why do you treat me as if you were the 
warden and I the inmate?  _You_ didn't like that, do you think _I_ like it 
any more?  Or that even Steven or Stephy liked it?"  

"In a curious way, _you_ are well be responsible for my manifestation.  
_You_ told Steven to try and alter his appearance.  He _did_ as you told 
him.  The result was that he _just_ had to go try to pick up the prettiest 
woman he could find.  He chose the wrong one.  Rather than bring the 
mob to _your_ doorstep, he changed himself again.  And here I am."

"Yes, you did break Steven out.  We _all_ appreciate that.  Steven gave 
you his word he would not use his powers on you or SFX, and as long 
you do not continue to insist to treat me like a child or a babbling idiot or 
try to use your powers on me, I will abide by that promise.  I can do a lot 
worse than kill someone, Jackie.  That is _not_ a threat.  It is a simple 
statement of truth.  But, I have no more desire to make you my enemy 
than I would think you wanted to make me yours."

"And, despite what you think-- you _are_ the one who started this.  
_You_ are the one who treatened _me_.  Quote: 'If you tell me to stay 
put, I stay put' or 'I am on my own'?  Really, Jackie.  How would you 
have liked me saying that to _you_?"

"As much as you do not seem to want to understand it, Steven is _not_ a 
child.  Confused, yes.  Who wouldn't be.  But, as should be obvious, I 
am neither Steven nor a child either.  And, I am _not_ confused by it."

"I _am_ sorry if the thought that I will not jump when you say frog is not 
something you can live with."  She shruggs elegantly.  "But, then I 
thought you wanted a partner, not a slave.  _I_ was quite willing to be a 
partner.  With our abilities, we could definitely acheive great things. And 
make no mistake, Jackie, with or without you, _I_ will acheive great 
things.  It is ordained.  Perhaps, together it would be even greater.  
Perhaps, not."

"As for Jason," she smiles, "Jackie, we are both women.  We have 
needs and appitites.  I would think you would find this preferable to 
Stephy always making goo-goo eyes at SFX, or me trying for your 
George."

"So do not threaten me.  I am quite capable of taking care of myself if 
need be.  The choice is your's.  Together we might be unstoppable.  But, 
if I must do it alone, well then..."

"The choice is yours."

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie listens to Stephenie (?) with a pained thoughtfulness, not 
interrupting for one of few rare occasions.  When this new woman 
finishes, Jackie tries to hide a weary smile.
        "Ok, you are right about some thin's here.  Maybe I'm to 
blame a little for what happened, but you can't expect me to know 
everythin' about what happens when you use this power.  If it is drivin' all 
of you as crazy as I'm goin' right now, then I can be a bit sympathetic.
       I'm not puttin' you in a prison.  You have a choice.  Steven 
knows, so that means you know.  I been straight with exactly what I want 
to accomplish, I ain't been hidin' that at all.  Who the hell knows what 
you want besides Pee-wee here.  My plan stands, you have to decide 
what you're goin to do stay and work somethin' out or go and shake the 
world.
     What I told goes for Steven, I wa willin to accept him as a 
partner, never said such to Stephy or you.  If you are a new person, then 
we have to work on that.  If you want to be someone else or are some 
one else don't expect us to accept you with open arms warts an all.  I 
trust Steven more than you sister.  Stephy too.
    I'm lookin out for the group, not myself, not anymore I guess. 
that's hard enough for me, d**n hard.  As for bein a partner, the Kid and I 
agreed to Steve, SFX would have to agree to you joinin up, which I ain't 
sure I want to go along with.  We're partners if we are on the same side.
         It's my show and the Kid's we been doin all this work to 
make it happen.  That makes it up to us what goes on, George is workin 
for us. If you want to be an employee, we can work something out, but 
Steven's the only one we was goin to make some sort of partner and 
didn't even get to talk about it.
          If you want to work out some terms for employment and 
helpin in our goals, great.  But the chimp isn't part of them.  He's not 
an..Ace <Jackie glares at SFX for sticking this term into her head, so 
much she's using it>.  We're tryin to blend in and Pee-wee doesn't blend 
in."
       Jackie shakes her head "NO" an

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie listens to Jackie, part of her thinking, **Do I really need this?  
Maybe not... But, it would be nice to have allies... someone to watch my 
back.  I _did_ hit some buttons, but still...**

After Jackie finishes, Stephenie sighs.  **She _is_ tired.  And standing 
up to me, knowing what I can do... She does have balls, I'll give her that.  
Ok, so maybe it's worth trying a _little_ more.**

Outloud she says, "Jackie... You're tired.  And this _is_ confusing.  I 
don't blame you for thinking its crazy."  

"And... some... of what you said is reasonable.  Of course you can't be 
expect to know 'everything about what happens' with my power.  Any 
more than I.  It _has_ only been a day and a half, after all."

"But, Jackie... I am _not_ an employee," the word is said with distate, 
"nor, must you feel you have the weight of the world on your shoulders 
or are the only one here capable of 'running the show'.  SFX certainly 
was surviving before you came along."  

She says to SFX, "No?" 

"I can understand your need to be in control."  **Believe me, I can!** she 
thinks.  "After years on the street, in prison, you no doubt feel that if you 
_don't_ control everything, sooner or later you will end up back there."

"But Jackie... You are _not_ in control of everything.  SFX?"  She asks 
him, "You don't want to be controlled by Jackie do you?  Your not going 
to put her back in prison, are you?", rhetorically.

"Now Jackie," she raises a hand to forestall interruption, "I know you're 
going to say that's not it.  But, just _listen_ to yourself.  "'Its my show'.  
Really?  Doesn't SFX have _anything_ to say about 'your show'?  Or is 
your idea of a partnership so hollow? You call him a 'partner', but it 
sounds to me more like you think of him as your 'employee'."

"You don't trust me?  Fair enough, I suppose.", her tone indicates that 
she thinks it is anything but fair.  "But, dear, remember what you just 
said?  You trust Steven?  You wanted him for a partner, not an 
employee?  Well, just _where_ do you think Steven _is_?  If it helps, just 
think of me as Steven the way he _should_ have been," her tone 
indicates that that is precisely what she thinks.  "Everything he was, is 
still here," she touches her chest, feeling her breasts and smiles, "only in 
a _much_ better package."

"Jackie... I am _not_ _anyone's_ 'employee'.  You say you're not trying 
to put me in a prison?  Then why do you insist on saying where I can go, 
who I can see and what I can do _without_even_asking_me_or_SFX_ 
first?  Why do you insist on being my _straw- boss_?  That sounds like 
prison to _me_."  

"You and SFX have been doing all the work?  Well, _excuse_ me, but 
how long have I been, or Steven or Stephy, at this party anyway? And, 
you might consider that you haven't bothered to _ask_ me, us, to _do_ 
any work.  If fact, if I remember correctly, both of you were pretty 
insistent on Stephy and Steven _not_ doing any 'work'.  Though, I _do_ 
seem to remember Stephy saving your bacon from Ms. Smoke, and," 
she looks at SFX, "having something to do with your keeping Dom from 
caving _your_ head in."

"If you agreed to accept Steven as an employee, after knowing him 
what? a hour? two?  Then why on earth do you continue to insist on 
treating you like your _servant_?  As I said, just _where_ do you think 
Steven _is_?"

"As for what I want?  Well, if I remember correctly _your_ plans where 
pretty much limited to paying back some scum and seeing how much 
you could steal along the way.   I _certainly_ would be more than willing 
to help with the first.  It would give me an opportunity to learn more 
about my power.  And imagine just how creative and _tortorous_ your 
revenge _could_ be.  I'm not sure exactly what they did to you, but... 
Well, to take a stab...  An old boyfriend jilted you?  Fine.  Let me turn 
him into a little nympho bimbo and see how _he_ likes being on the 
receiving end.  One of your former 'partners' the reason why you ended 
up in prison?  I'm _sure_ we can think of something absolutely horrifying 
for him.  The possibilities are endless."

"But Jackie... think.  Think about what you and SFX and I can do.  And 
all you want to do is _steal_ stuff?  I'm not quite sure what I want.  But, I 
_am_ sure that it can be, it _will_ be, much more earth- shattering than 
being just a theif.  And if you'll just stop and think about it, and think 
about everything a partneship- not 'employment'- a real partnership with 
me and SFX _could_ mean...  Well, as I said, the possibilities are 
_endless_."

"However, I _do_ have certain needs.  And Jason..." she gives Jackie a 
knowing smile.  "Don't worry about Jason.  He's only _too_ glad to do 
whatever I say, _whatever_ I say." she leaves the implication of that 
hanging in the air a second.  "He'll stay out the way in the back room if 
you wish." She runs a hand down his face. "Won't you Jason?"

{...}

"Jackie a _partnership_, a true partnership, mean everyone listens to 
everyone else, no one runs the 'whole show' and _no one_ gets 
_everything_ they want.  _But_, it also means that you compromise.  
You agree to let your partner's do and have certain things, so long as it 
does not harm you.  One of the things _I_ want right now is Jason.  
Believe me, he can do nothing to hurt you _or_ interfer with _our_ plans.  
In fact, he can _help_ us.  Just take a look..." she says as she shows 
Jackie the cash and gold and other credit cards in the wallet.  

"This way you won't have to worry about spending _your_ money on me.  
Jason will be happy to buy me the things I need.  Won't you Jason?"

**God, I hope that worked on him like I wanted.**

"Sure he's not an 'Ace'.  But, the only male 'Ace' I know right now is SFX.  
Are you suggesting I _play_ with _him_?"  She looks at SFX.  "How 
about it SFX, you want to to play with me?"

{...}

<><><><><>

[GM]

SFX has been standing and listening the whole time, fists clenched and 
eyes blazing. Seeing Jackie glancing at him, he finally erupts.

"You f***ing crazy psycho b****!" he snarls at Stephanie. "Are you outta 
your f***ing mind? Who the hell do you think you are acting like the 
motherf***ing Queen of Egypt? I don't know which of all your umpteen-
jillion incarnations is real, but whatever you think, I'm bettin' the next 
time you lose your cool or have someone shootin' at you, you're gonna 
go pfft! just like Steve an' Stephy and that goddam teddy bear did, and 
be someone else!"

He steps down from the RV and holds up a fist at the voluptuous, 
imperious woman. "You think you're real hot f***in' s***, huh?" He 
gestures at the parking lot, and a horrible screech that deafens Jackie 
and Stephanie both for several seconds tears through the air. Ten feet 
away, asphalt explodes into a cloud of dust, leaving behind a crater two 
feet across.

"Yeah, I'll bet you prob'ly could turn me or Jackie into somethin' weird. 
Maybe. But you just manifested, you can barely control your power, it 
seems as likely to f*** YOU up as the person you aim it at. MY power 
works the way I want it to, every f***ing time. So before you point your 
finger at me or Jackie, lady, you better remember that I can point mine 
just as fast. And you might turn me into a chick or a teddy bear or a 
f***ing stuffed Barney the Dinosaur, but if I still have my powers in that 
form, I'm still gonna waste your a**!"

"HELL no I don't trust you an' I sure as hell don't wanna work with you, 
an' I think you better change your a** back to Steven or Stephy or 
SOMEONE who's got some tiny shred of sanity! Who the hell is this 
dude?" he demands, gesturing at Jason. "You didn't conjure him outta 
the air, DID YOU? He's some poor schmuck you used your power on, 
an' you're talkin' about him like he's some f***in' TOY you're just gonna 
bring along for the ride? Who ARE you, dude?" he asks Jason directly. 
Glaring back at Stephanie, he says "You don't think nothin' of turnin' 
people into your slaves, you are a f***ing crazy psycho b****, no I don't 
f***ing trust you one tiny little bit-"

he points his fist at Stephanie's face-

"- and I'm calling you out. Change your a** back to Steven, or try to ace 
me and pray you can take me out before I blow your head off!"

Abruptly, all the voices in Stephanie's head are silent.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie looks down her nose at SFX, anger boiling up inside her but 
suppressed because she suspects the same thing he does- too angry 
and she goes pfft! and she does _not_ want to relinquish the body, oh 
no she does not.

"Well then, arevadirchi!"  She turn on her heel and begins walking away, 
pauses and turns back and says to SFX, "You're one for big words, SFX.  
You going to shot me in the back?  Are you a murderer, SFX?  Steven  
_promised_ he would not use his power on you.  _I_ said I would keep 
that promise.  Just because you can't handle wanting Stephy now that 
you know she was a he...", she shrugs elegantly. "Oh well, Stephy says 
bye.  Steven too. Your loss.  Happy theiving!"  She marches back to the 
room, trusting Jason will follow.

[Does he?]

[If SFX attacks anyway, Stephenie will 
1) concetrate very hard on creating an area of complete permanent 
silence around him, 
2) if that doesn't work- and she still can- make a dash for him, try ot 
touch him and concetrate _very_ hard on making him _absolutely_ in 
love with whoever has Steven's body/whichever personality is 
manifested.  If he kills her anyway, maybe he'll be so consumed with 
guilt he'll off himself.]

<><><><><>

[GM]

SFX doesn't attack, but looks over at Jackie questioningly as Stephanie 
walks away. Jason looks from the group at the RV to Stephanie 
questioningly, then reluctantly follows Stephanie.

"Umm, where we goin'....Mistress?" he says to Stephanie. She notices 
that his speech sounds more ponderous and less articulate than before 
she transformed him.

SFX says to Jackie [Stephanie does NOT hear this]: "I was kind of 
bluffin'; I *can* blast her unconscious without killin' her. I don't like that 
b**** at all, but I dunno if we ain't leavin'....the others, to a real nasty fate 
themselves if she stays in charge. Not to mention, that poor fool she 
turned into her little boy-toy. But like you said..." he smiles with a touch 
of sardonicism, "you're the boss..."

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie looks over to Stephenie and yells, "Hold on a sec, let me 
talk it over with the Kid."  Jackie walks over to SFX and they start a 
discussion.

 Jackie walks up to SFX and whispers, "Can you damp our talkin'
a a little?"  Taking a draw of her cigar, she edges in a bit closer.
   "Kid I hope your just pullin my leg with this 'Boss' stuff, I
don't need you pissed at me too.  I thought we worked it all out...s*** I
neneed all this like a hole in the head.
      What do you say we go along with the chick?  So far all of 
Stevey's avatars last for a max, what 8 hours?  I'm gettin tired of this,
we're talkin in circles.
       He seems to get worse everytime he uses his powers, I can
imagine a real problem, we'd be screwed as bad as the enemy.  Damn, 
am I
really that bad?  I think she's right, I need a handle on everythin' or I
feel like I got no hope of keepin things together.
    But what I said before, you are a partner...don't let me treat
you any less, not that you'd let me.  I'd rather not tell this chick what
we was workin on before, the "Quantum cats" stuff, if at all Steven, 
maybe.
   The problem is there has to be some kind of order, what's the
point of helpin other Aces and just lettin them run wild?  I think it 
could work, on most of them, money and protection.  Think we should 
tell her
about it?  That's even if you decided to go along with it.
      I could use some sleep.  Just remember Kid you aren't alone,
if she tried anythin funny one of us would get her.  She'd have her head
blowed off or a 6 inch bite taken out of her chest."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie stops and Jackie's yell, her back to Jackie and (unseen by 
either Jackie _or_ SFX a tiny smile crosses her lips).  She wipes the 
smile from her face, then turns and calls to Jackie, "Very well."

While waiting she calls Jason to her and, telling to keep his voice to 
whisper, questions him to try and determine just how stupid he has 
gotten.

**Well,** she thinks, **I wanted a happy servant, I should have expect 
this.  <sigh> I have so much to learn about this.  Perhaps, after I 
understand this better, I can restore his intelligence but preserve his 
devotion to me?  Hmm... Something to think about, and perhaps 
experiment with.  Hmmm...  I do believe Jackie actually talks the kid into 
it.  I can't wait to try something _really_ wild on some of the creeps she 
wants revenge on.  Hopefully, she'll think they're fair game... and maybe 
she'll have some wild idea for that herself?**

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jason seems to have been made not so much stupid as confused; he 
speaks like someone under the influence of a mildly mind-numbing drug.

[to Jackie]

SFX says "Don't worry 'bout it, girl, you *are* kind of the head honcho; 
you're bank rollin' this thing, anyways. Don't worry, it ain't like all of a 
sudden I'm gonna start kissin' your boots." He smirks, then the smirk 
fades as, looking over at "Stephanie", he says "That's probably what that 
chick is into. Look, white girl, 'member when you said you been looked 
at like dirt by rich yuppies? Well, I get the same kinda looks, but a lot 
more often than you, I'll bet. I don't go around whinin' about race, 'cause 
I know it's nothin' like when my folks were my age, but I still get my share 
of dirty looks, and a lot of it is about color. I know the look when I see it, 
and she's got it. It may not be 'cause I'm black, 'cause she was lookin' at 
you an' George the same way, but she sure thinks she's some kinda 
queen, and we're just the dirt under her fingernails. I don't see how we're 
gonna be able to bring her along with her expectin' to boss us around 
like she's in charge, and I ain't takin' no s*** from some arrogant white 
b**** who's into slavery. If we take her aboard, we gotta somehow make 
her change that poor fool back, unless you really wanna have her boffin' 
her pet stud in the back, while we become kidnappers. Plus whatever 
she says, I don't trust her not to try messin' with us when she don't get 
her way. I can play along for maybe eight hours, like you say, but if 
somethin' don't make her change back soon, we're gonna have major 
problems."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

**Oh jezz.  And some of those things disappeared after a night.  If this is 
temporary... I could be in big trouble when it wears off.**

"Listen to me closely, Jason." **I'll have to remember to call him Jason.** 
she thought as she carressed his face. "From now on you can call me 
Stephenie, not 'Mistress'... unless you wish to call me Mistress, that is.  I 
know you're confused.  Frankly, I am a little as well.  But, think about the 
wonderful, young, new body you have.  Think hard about that." She 
pressed herself against him for a moment. "I think your body is dreamy." 
She positioned herself to give him a good look down her clevage 
revealed by the overlarge bodice of her dress.  "Think about that too."  

"If there comes a time when you wish to leave me, tell me.  Also tell me 
what kind of body you would like.  I believe I can find a way to give you 
anything along those lines you wish.  However, if you runaway or try to 
hurt me, I won't be able to do so.  Do you understand?  You need to 
remember that.  If you hurt me, I won't be able to help you."

{...}

**Ok, girl, hope that worked.  And in the meantime, if I can _ever_ get a 
chance to enjoy his endowements... and there's enough time, surely I 
can make sure he won't want to do anything but what I want, even if it 
does wear off.**

**Hmmm... Speaking of that... I best get some condoms for him.  
Wouldn't do to get pregnant from a prol.**

<><><><><>

[GM]

//Why don't you just make him sterile?// Mr. Nasty snickers. //Whatsa 
matter, not convinced of the reliability of that method of birth control? 
Hey, here's a thought; you can probably get pregnant *without* having 
sex. Maybe just by thinking about it too hard. Then again, you can 
probably make yourself UN-pregnant with a thought.//

**You're sick** says Steven

//Oh, but aren't these interesting thoughts?// Mr. Nasty continues, 
unabashed. //Oh, you go ahead and ride the high hard one with your 
little sex slave, 'Stephanie', and don't worry about the possibility that 
maybe us 'voices in your head' can actually affect YOU and the 
manifestation of your powers, maybe have been doing so all along...//

*Holy s***....** gulps Steven. And the darker voice laughs.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

To Mr. Nasty's first comment, Stephenie replies, **How _dare_ you 
suggest either.**  She agrees with Steven, Nasty is sick, though there 
are some things about him she understands.  **Do you could handle a 
pregnancy, Nasty?  May it would just suck you out of my head and into 
the child?  Maybe then I _would_ abort it.  What would you think of 
that?**

**And how _dare_ you, a _man_ of all things,** the irony of this given 
both there sources escapes her, **even suggest you have a say in what 
_I_ do with _my_ body.  As for my power's, well, Steven pulled you back 
once, I can surely do better than that.**

A large part of her agrees with Steven's last comment, but a smaller part 
is wonders if it is true which of them is responsible for producing _her_ 
from Steven's panicked attempt to change and debating complementing 
their taste-- except for the blue skin.

She waits for the results of Jackie's talk with SFX.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie smiles at the Kid, "Yeah, the prejudice hard stare.  Got it 
back on the streets, livin with the foster parents, even in the can.  In my 
case, as long as I don't open my mouth, I ain't pegged as white trash.
    I say we head out on the road, nothin like a few hours of road 
haulin, some of George's music and tedium to put anyone out.  Maybe I 
can get a few drinks into her too.  Steven or Stephy should be able to 
change the chimp back.  That's what bothers me, this chimp.  No matter 
what kind of pressure you put on someone, they got a choice.  This poor 
dork has been whammied but good.
   I decided to give up on my...personal business.  This is more 
important.  You work on the computer stuff and I'll work on the Queen."

 Jackie looks at Stephenie, "Ok, the Kid and I talked it over. You 
can come with us, but no hanky panky with, um...Jason until you tell me 
exactly what happened over the past few hours.  And you stick to your 
promise, or Steven's promise, or whatever.
        "We're headin out now.  We have to get back on schedule, 
this is more important than my personal vendettas," Jackie grits her 
teeth at the last comment.
      "So, it'll be us gals, talkin all friendly like.  The Kid will be 
busy, so will George.  Um, Jason can get some rest and we can talk."
   Jackie walks back to the RV stairs and the metallic pit bull 
moves away, sits and freezes still.  Inviting all aboard, she goes to the 
fridge and pulls two bottles of champagne out.
       "Good job George, looks like Froggy champagne.  
Taittinger? Sounds good," Jackie pours two glasses and offers one to 
Stephenie.
      "So tell me what happened."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

 [Assuming the talk between Jackie and SFX is not obviously telepathic 
(since I didn't see mention of them going off to talk- but maybe I juast 
missed that?  Tho, I- but not Chaos- already half suspect the kid is either 
empathic or telepathic to some degree.  but, then Stephenie didn't see 
his bluff either... Go figure <g>]

 ***

Stephenie listened to Jackie, then smiled winningly.  "Jackie, Jackie I 
said I would keep Steven's promise, now didn't I?  But... there you go 
given me orders again.  'No hanky panky until you tell me..' Of course, 
_if_ you _ask_ politely...?"  she leaves it hanging.

{...}

[Assuming Jackie- no doubt swearing a blue streak mentally <g> 
phrases it as a request...]

Stephenie smiles again, point made (no matter how reluctantly by 
JAckie) asks Jason, "Anything important which can't be replaced in the 
room or car?"

[If so...]

Stephenie makes a point of _asking_ Jackie if Jason may have a 
moment to get a few necessary things.

[If Jackie agrees... Jason does while Stephenie waits for him...]
[Once done, or if there is nothing to get...]

Stephenie murmurs, "Come along, Jason," to him and enters the RV.  
Once inside she asks Jason to go to the back bedroom and wait for her.

When Jackie hands her the champaign glass, Stephenie smiles, puts 
the glass down and take the entire magnum, saying "Big things demand 
big responses."

**And I'm going to trust you not to drug me?  Not!**

Taking the bottle, she walks over to and sits in a chair, waiting for Jackie 
to join her.  

[Assuming JAckie does...]

Then she puts the bottle out in front of her, saying "A toast, then?" When 
Jackie clinks her glass with the bottle in Stephenie's hand, Stephenie 
says, "To partners, then?", and lifts the bottle to her mouth- but does not 
drink until after Jackie does (and she makes she Jackie actually drinks 
and is not merely faking it.)

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie laughs at Stephenie's tsk tsk routine, "Nah, it's my RV, 
who says I'm goin' to let you and lover boy mess up the few bunks we 
have?  No, they're for George and the Kid...to sleep.  They're pullin 
some real work, we can settle in the kitchenette, he can sit up 
front...there ain't any more room for anythin else.
   And let me take a wild stab in the dark, this guy, well if he 
needs somethin I can spot him some green.  We're leavin now, already 
too much of a trail been left behind.  The Kid an I aren't riskin any more 
with the government AND KKK whackos trackin us down.  Your antics, 
no matter who's fault don't help mch in keepin thin's quiet.
    No matter what else, this RV is our home and you'll conduct 
yourself as our guest.  For now, that's what you two are, guests."
 Jackie takes a swig of the champagne, "I ain't drinkin to 
partners, I don't know you at all.  Tell me what happened back there, 
then we'll talk about partners an such.  I got plans, most of which will see 
things run as a...well later.  Like I said I don't know you.  So speak up."
       Drinking the rest of her champagne, she sees Stephenie has 
claimed the bottle, so she open the next one and pours herself a glass.  
Her heads whips to the side, "Ok boys, let's get movin!  Outta here 
George."

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jason isn't quite ready to follow you onto the RV.

"Miss....uh, Stephanie. Where are we going? I still have to get to a 
convention!"

//How long are you going to keep him *enslaved*?// asks Steven.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

At Jason's question, she walked to him, put her arms around his neck, 
pressed her body against his, and gave him a long, deep kiss- with eyes 
screwed shut.  **Yeeck!  I _have_ got to do something about his face.**

Breaking kiss, she said, "Jason, darling, forget about going to the 
convention.  You want to sit around with a bunch of boring old men?  Or 
do you want to play with me?  We'll stop somewhere and you can call 
them with your apologies and tell them something came up.  Alright?"

To Steven, she replied: **I'm not sure he _is_, boy.  And I haven't 
thought that far ahead.  At least until he buys me a new wardrobe- on 
that fits- and finally helps me scratch this itch.  After that...?  Well, a lot 
depends on whether I can make him forget about us...**

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jason frowns, and says "S'the biggest convention of the year....don't 
wanna miss it..." he looks down your dress, eying your cleavage, and 
says "Well....OK. I gotta get my suitcase and clothes and business cards 
from my room...hey what about my car?" It *is* a nice car, an Acura 
Legend with all the options. Not quite a Lamborghini or a Porsche, but it 
seems a shame to abandon it.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie flicks her finger lightly under Jason's chin.  "Oh, Jason," she 
says seductively, "I don't plan to let you have any time for _business_.  
Or to wear _too_ many clothes." She grins. "This is just for pleasure.  
Tell you what, lover, why don't you hurry up and throw the clothes and 
stuff in the suitcase- and don't forget the condoms.  Then follow us in the 
car.  But, hurry up, lover," she gives him a promise loaded kiss, "the 
sooner we get going the sooner we stop and you and I can..." she trails 
off as she runs her fingers down his chest to his crotch and gives him a 
slight squeeze.

[If that doesn't get him to do it in record time, nothing will. <g>]

She waits until he loads the car and then enters the RV.

After Jason has loaded the Acura, Stephenie enters the RV alone.  
"Jason will follow us in the Acura.  Might be nice to have some wheels 
that aren't so... conspicuous, don't you agree?  We can't just dump him, 
he knows us.  Best to keep him with us, no?"  

She lowers her voice to keep SFX or George from hearing, "Besides the 
fact that I don't _wish_ to.  Unless you want me to make a play for 
George or the kid, which I do _not_ really want to do and would be 
bound to create all sorts of new problems in any event."

She smiles at Jackie's comment about the bedrooms and says, "Well, 
since he's driving the car, I can wait... for a while."

After they sit for their little 'girl talk', Stephenie says, "Needs something? 
Jackie dahling, the only thing he and I need right now is to be alone in a 
bed for a few hours.  You saw his credit cards.  He has plenty of money, 
owns a chain of car lots.  Plenty of toys for SFX, eh? Though, I _would_ 
appreciate it if could stop and let me pickup a few things.  Somethings 
that *fit* better." She indicates her oversized bodice. 

At her guest comment, Stephenie replies, "Jackie.", shaking her head in 
wonder. "Still don't trust me?  Well, if I am a guest, then," she chuckles 
again, "why should I not claim guest's privilege and a bedroom... later 
on, of course?"  She smiles and continues quickly, "Don't worry, I'm sure 
Jason and I can find _somewhere_ when we stop.  Though, I _do_ hope 
you understand if I get a little witchy before then?"  
As for my 'antics'...", she shrugged.  "Really, I don't believe any one will 
connect us with them."

"What happened?  Hmm... Well, I've told you most of it.  But, too repeat, 
Steven took your advice to heart after you left.  tried to alter his 
appearance so he wouldn't be recognized.  Gave himself a simply 
scrumptious body too.  Then, like so many men who look like that, he let 
his little head do the thinking.  Thought he was superman I guess."

"The body change produced this little speedo bathing suit.  It wasn't 
much of a jump for him to decide to check the women at the pool out.  
Only he stupidly couldn't keep his eyes from her body long enough to 
realize she was married.  Her husband- the mafia don? - was there 
and... Well, one thing lead to another and the next thing you know he's 
running for his life with some armed goons after him."

"Poor dear.  He panicked.  Couldn't lead them back to your room.  Then 
they would connect that Greek god's body with you.  So he decided to 
change himself, which he did as soon as he was out of their sight."

"And he got _me_."  She chuckled. "Lucky boy."

"So, there I was _naked_ for pity's sake, running down that pit of a 
hotel's hallway, with Don Corleon's muscle chasing me.  What could I 
do?  I found an occupied room, ducked into it... and there was Jason."

"The goons were still following.  I _had_ to do something before Jason 
kicked me out into their arms, didn't I?  So, I used my... charms and my 
talents to try to ensure he would be more willing to help me.  As usually I 
didn't get quite what I wanted.  But, what I got worked."

"Then...," she carressed his chest through his shirt.  "As I said, I _do_ 
have needs.  Only, before we do could anything except get me all hot 
and bothered, I heard the RV.  I grabbed a bedsheet, zapped up some 
_barely_ acceptable clothes for us and..."

"You were there for the rest." 

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie frowns, "Uh huh.  So what did you do to him?  He's a big 
boy now, but he follows you around like a puppy.  He doesn't look 
normal, I don't care who he is.  I don't want anythin attached to him; 
money, cards, whatever.  You keep him to yourself.  Totally to yourself."
 Looking at Stephenie, Jackie smiles *Real class act, drinkin from 
the bottle mouth*, "I'd appreciate it if you drank that, it ain't cheap. Or 
would you want somethin stronger?  Not used to real booze are you."  
Jackie smiles condescendingly.
        "Ok, tell me what you plan to accomplish, you said you had 
your own destiny and that.  Why hang with us white trash?  Make you 
feel good to rub with the commoners?"

<><><><><>

Chaos:

"What did I do to him?  Well, the body is obvious, though I have no idea 
why the color came out that way any more than on myself.  It _is_ rather 
exotic.  But, all the same, I'd as soon we pickedup some very good 
tanning lotion as soon as possible.  As for the rest?  Well, I'm not really 
sure I did anything else to him- except what _any_ beautiful woman can 
do to _any_ man.  But... if I did, I'm not sure about that either."

Seeing her get the other bottle, Stephenie says, "Oh there's no need for 
that.  Now that I've seen you drink from it.  After all, you _don't_ trust 
me."  she smiles sweetly.  Then gets up and gets herself another glass-
one which is not a champange glass and pours a liberal amount of 
champaign in it as she returns to the seat.  Sher sips the champaign, 
completely ignoring the insult- for now.

"Commoners?  Plul-ease Jackie.  You and SFX and me, we're... what 
was that word you used?  Oh yes,... Aces.  Dahling, we're the new 
aristocracy.  Only, unlike the old, we actually deserve it.  And, like you 
said there _is_ that matter of those people who are trying to kill Steven.  
I don't like that.  You might say, he and I are close.  And speaking of 
'commoners', Jackie, what of George?"

As for what I plan?  Maybe its doing something _absolutely_ dreadful to 
those people who were rude enough to try to kill me.  Let me think about 
it some more before I actually put it into words.  In the meantime, do you 
know anything else about them?"

"Oh... and, Jackie, any other questions?  Or do you trust me enough yet 
to talk partnership?"

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie sips her champagne, with a frown.  "George may not 
have any real fancy powers, except for bein real lucky, but I'd trust him 
now with my life.  We've had a bad time of it, but we've known each 
other a while.  He's workin for me and the Kid.  I don't care about 
'common' or nuthin, I figured you would.
 Say, you drink anythin besides this fruit juice?  I mean we chicks 
are the ones in control, right?  The men are doin the hard work; George 
is drivin, the KId is computin.  We got a chance to unwind and have a bit 
of a party, let's not blow it.  How about some micro wave fries and my 
namesake, some Jack Daniels?"
        Jackie moves over to the fridge and cabinets and removes a 
sealed bottle of Jack Daniels, crackers and cheese (the squeeze bottle 
type), the squat metal shape of the dog moves aside and lopes over to 
SFX.  It seems to peer over his shoulder and licks him.
       She pours a few shots worth into a tumbler and gulps it and 
offers the bottle to Stephenie.  Squirting some cheese onto a rye 
cracker, she starts to chew, "So girlie, nice clothes.  Why don't you 
fix'em.  You can right? I mean, you got the chance now, it's ok.  I don't 
mind.
        I been meanin to ask, which is harder to do, change stuff or 
change you?  You seem to have less control when you do it bigger as 
opposed to smaller.  Panic really ruins the power you got, stress.  Learn 
more about it with a little practice, little, keep it little.
      Take the bottle and I dunno, make it into somethin that fits 
you, crystal or somethin.  Maybe tryin to be too broad is hurtin your skills 
with it.  I mean a blue blood like you should make it easy to make 
everyone in tuxes and top hats, but might have trouble with makin guns."  
Jackie shrugs and eats some more crackers.

 Jackie will try to spell out meassages to SFX while Stephenie is
focusing on something else.  Write script on table top with dog's tail, will
communicate..."Dump chimp?  Can. Easy."
     "Dampen chimp sound?"
    If he says yes, block off car gas line with a metal seal, try to
do it while she's distracted.

<<trying to get her drunk.  I envision Jackie's booze intake better than 
anyone here except maybe George! <g> >>

<><><><><>

[GM]

SFX's voice whispers in your ear; "Yeah, maybe a good idea...but if we 
leave the poor fool behind, how we gonna get super-bitch to change him 
back?"

<><><><><>

Chaos:

"Well, I'm glad to see we have _one_ thing ing in common.  But, please, 
Jackie. It's 'we women, not 'chicks'.  'Chicks' is _their_ word."

"And of _course_ I care about 'common'.  But I didn't see Prince Renier 
hanging around that dump, did you?"

"Party?"  She chuckled.  "Well, Jackie, I _did_ have something like that 
in mind with Jason.  A _lot_ more fun tan alcohol.  Less fattening too.  
Only you nixed that, remember?"

**Or maybe I misjudged her and George?**, she thought, **She _did_ 
say she was in prison.  Maybe, she wants me all for _herself_?!** She 
chuckled silently at that thought as she gave Jackie's body a quick 
appraising look.  **Not bad.  Not exactly what I had in mind, but...**

"As for what I drink...  Hon, _Steven's_ drunk, smoked, snorted and 
eaten almost everything at what time or another- you know how they get 
at that age.  But, after that little episode with the spiked punch that 
landed Steven in the loony bin, excuse me if I don't try anything harder 
than this 'fruit juice'."

Stephenie declines the fried and cheese, but accepts a cracker.  Before 
nibbling on it, however, she stares at it as if it were a locked boxed. **If I 
change stuff, maybe I ought to start looking at them closer.  Can you 
even see quantua or probabilities?**

"Change them?  Oh, my clothes... I thought you didn't want me using my 
power in the RV?  Why the sudden change?"

The rest of Jackie's words made sense though.  Maybe some little 
things.  Of course, there was also the risk of it getting away from her...   
But, if she kept it minor... perhaps...

"Besides, Jackie, there's nothing quite like having a bunch of people 
fawning all over you as you try on something simply _sinful_, is there?"

**Poor dear. Probably doesn't know what she's been missing.**

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 "Well you have to try sometime.  If you have trouble with the 
small stuff, how can we feel good about you helpin us later?  The more 
practice you get the better right?  The more possibilities.  Try just the 
bottle and your clothes.  Let's try a few thin's.
       Change the bottle to a weapon for starters, first thin' that 
comes to mind.  Next how about makin it change back to what it was, 
exactly the way it was.  You should find how tirin' it is and how quick you 
can do it when you are in control, not in a panic.  How about tryin it 
blindfolded or eyes shut, the same test.  Might be useful to know if we 
can rely on you without your senses helpin.
  Mine don't work that way.  I could be blind and deaf and it 
wouldn't matter at all.  So far we've only seen you work under a panic, 
give it a try."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

"Jackie, if I'm wrong about this I apologise for it in advance.  I hope you 
understand how much _that_ means?"

"But, please.  I'm not stupid.  And I don't mean that as an insult or a 
threat.  You've made no bones about not liking or trusting me.  You and 
SFX both had babies anytime... the others used the power in the RV.  
_You_ specifically told me _not_ to use it.  Now suddenly your asking 
me to, and being nice about it?  And in the RV?"

"Jackie... Why the sudden change of heart?  Why shouldn't I feel you're 
just hoping maybe something might happen to make me go pfft! ?  
Maybe trying to strain my power too much, or tire me out?  you don't 
trust me?  How can I trust this sudden change of heart?"

"I'm not saying I don't.  Convince me."

"But, Jackie... Well, I have no intention of going pfft! if I can help it.  
Steven may be going ape*** over having breasts and a vagina, but _I'm_ 
not Steven.  I'm not a man with a woman's body.  I _am_ a woman. And, 
I _like_ myself this way."  

"I've used it without being 'panicked', as you put it.  Steven wasn't 
panicked when he turned himself into speedo-boy.  I wasn't panicking 
when I created this outfit.  Both times we didn't get _exactly_ what we 
wanted." She indicates the oversized bodice of her dress.

"That said, though, you _are_ absolutely correct.  I should use them, try 
to find thier limits, start out small, the whole thing.  It might make the 
difference between life and death.  For all of us."

"So if your absolutely sure about it?..."

Then, as if by after thought, "Oh, and Jackie, just in case you think it will 
make me go pffft!, so far I've been successful in preventing that.  I'm 
pretty sure I can the power on other things and still remain just like I am.  
Even on other people."

**As long as I keep track of my fatigue.**, she thought.

"But... if your serious about just wanting me to test them..." she shrugged 
and watched Jackie closely for her reaction.

<><><><><>

[GM]

"B**** talks too much," SFX can be heard muttering.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 "Dahlin'," Jackie says with a mocking tone, "if I wanted you out I 
coulda arranged somethin' better than this.  I coulda tried knockin' you 
upside the head while my doggie clubbed you out and the Kid knocked 
you with a sonic boom.  I'm askin' because as you pointed, every time 
the power of yours was used around me was under stress.  I'm hopin 
you have better finesse with some practice.  The outfit you did was 
good, but it isn't perfect.  It might come down to doin somethin perfect 
when our lives count on it.
      I don't know how the Kid does his thin', but it helps me to 
visualize.  Maybe you can alter thin's, but thinkin hard wouldn't hurt.  
Like for instance, maybe you could picture the Victorian era ballroom 
scene when we are faced with whackos with guns.  Make them into tux 
wearin monkeys with canes instead of guns.  Or create Rick's cafe outta 
Casablanca.
      It's bad enough dealin with each of you, but if your powers 
aren't reliable, you aren't goin' to be much of any help to us.  Maybe 
each personality has different levels of control.  I dunno, I ain't a 
scientist.
         Give it a try and stop the blabbin'.  Man, your mouth flaps 
like a whipperwill's a**!"

Spell out " ?.  Maybe snap back? Not problem car trouble :)"

     With an alcohol buzz, Jackie has a thought. *If this guy, um... 
girl, Stevey can make marmelade, maybe I'm goin about this stuff wrong*
     *Philosophy stone*  Jackie concentrates on turning the pit bull 
to pure silver.

<><><><><>

[GM]

With his super-ventriloquism, SFX says "Huh?"

(Perhaps your alcoholic buzz is inhibiting your communicativeness? 
<g>)

The pit bull shimmers and ripples, and seems to become a little shinier 
and more silvery...but you can tell with your metal sense that you didn't 
actually change its composition.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Jackie's last comment got a rise out her, for a moment, then she 
chuckled.  "I was only trying to explain enough so that you might feel you 
could trust me."  She shrugged.

"Oh very well...  But, not the bottle, at least not while it still has bubbly in 
it.  Could you give me the least expensive of the outfits you got for 
Steven?  I want to see if its easier to change something within its... ah, 
class I suppose you'd call it."

[If she does...]

Taking the clothes, Stephenie concentrates- increasing the strength of it 
until the change occurs- on changing it into another designer outfit for 
her, fitting as perfectly as possible.  She of course also concentrates 
hard on changing _nothing_ about herself.  She also tries to follow the 
change with whatever senses she can to see if she can discern anything 
about what it is she does.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie gets some basic clothing from one of the shopping bags; 
sweats, underwear, socks and a sweatshirt.  Frowning, "Look I wanted 
you to try out somethin' with different what you call it, composition.  Turn 
glass into a gun and then back to somethin like glass, crystal maybe.
    I mean big deal, you waste some fruit juice.  Drink it then, or 
better yet see if you can make your own."

<><><><><>

[GM]

[The Acura is tailing the RV at a comfortable distance.]

Stephanie holds the clothes that Jackie bought for Steven, and 
concentrates.

They ripple, and the twittering of songbirds can be heard from within the 
folds of the garments. SFX turns and looks over his shoulder, muttering 
to himself and looking like he's ready to blast whatever develops from 
this latest manifestation of Chaos' powers.

The Dockers jeans and preppie shirt becomes a shimmering, translucent 
black dress, very stylish and made of very good material.

But Stephanie's power keeps going. The table ripples, and the cheap 
plastic surface becomes smooth crystal- still layered over the cardboard 
and aluminum foundation. The champagne bottle shifts and becomes an 
elegant crystal carafe...and the champagne turns into some 
unidentifiable green liquid. Jackie's cheese bottle ripples and becomes a 
similarly-shaped plastic bottle, with a label printed in odd lettering, an 
alphabet you've never seen before. And her crackers turn black and 
moldy. Jacqueline leaps back away from the spreading transformation 
effect, but it stops at the edge of the table.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie surveys the results.  **The dress looks nice.  The other 
effects... Hmmm...  Because I didn't also concentrate on changing _just_ 
the clothes?  But, the dress is almost exactly like I imagined it, if it fits.  
So does that mean I can get what I want if i let the effect 'splash' onto 
other things, but if I try to prevent the 'splash' then what I get is 
somehow not right?  And, its almost like my nature determined the 
results of the 'splash' changes.  These look like things that I'd like to 
have.  I wonder...**

"Well, I don't think we should try that in the RV again just now..."

She sniffs at the green liquid and examines Jackie's transformed 
cheese-bottle.

"And I don't think I want to taste either of these.  But, I do think they 
might be worth keeping, especially this writing.  SFX?  Got any idea 
what language this is?"

{...}

"Hmmm...  Jackie, I have another idea.  If you'll stop the RV somewhere 
isolated?  I want to see if I can limit the effect, keep it from spreading like 
that.  I think I can and that I just forgot to do so.  And I agree, its time to 
try something more ambitious, maybe making something into a gun or 
some such.  But, I'm not sure you want to risk this in here again.  And in 
the meantime, I want to see if thise thing fits."

[If she agrees, Stephenie retreats to the bathroom or bedroom and, after 
a quick survey of her body to make sure there were no surprises there, 
slips into the black dress, examines its fit, etc.  She then rejoins Jackie.]

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie drops the moldy crackers, "My dinner!  S***! Hot Da**! 
Maybe I was right. *Guess I ain't that uneducated*  This looks like your 
style girl, the crystal, the table and the dress.  Wow.  Umm, George keep 
an eye out for somethin' a bit deserted, stop the Rv when you are sure. 
see if you can change this stuff back.  That is just as important to find 
out, keep the dress, but change the table back.  Then the cheese," 
Jackie grins.
        "One at a time, carefully,  We got plenty of time.  If you take 
what's available to make stuff, we can use sand and dirt, instead of this 
stuff. Let's keep the bottle and see how long it lasts."
        Jackie rummages through various boxes and bags and 
comes out with a box of shotgun shells.  Taking a handful out, she starts 
feeding them to the pit bull.  She shrugs.  She then takes out a shotgun 
and loads it.  Putting it away she pulls out a Flak Jacket and shows it to 
George, "If thin's get hairy this stuff is here George."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Having returned from putting on the new dress. "Actually, I kind of like 
the table.  But, I'll see what I can do after we've stopped and everyone 
has a chance to step out.  As for the cheese... Well, I'd really like to 
keep that to.  At least, until we decifer the writing.  Besides, I'm not too 
sure I'd be in a hurry to eat anything I 'quantumed-up?'... Hmm... it'll 
work for now."

Seeing Jackie with the shotgun, Stephenie says, "Uh... I really wish you 
wouldn't do that. At least until we get things settled between you and 
SFX and I.  And George too I guess.  Call me paranoid, but I'm not in a 
hurry to find out what gunpowder does if this effect catches it."

"And you do know, Jackie, if we take this practice thing to its 
conclusion... that means I'll have to try it on people sooner or later.  
Well," thinking of Jason, "other people."

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie laughs, "Yeah, the shotgun is a lot more harmless than 
the three of us.  if it gets to us...Anyways I wanted to make George feel a 
bit safer around us or anyone after us.  I know how I felt after that 
whacko attacked me with metal claws...I thought I was dead."
   She visibly winces at Stephenie when she talks about trying 
the power out on 'other people', "Umm, not a good idea.  Until all of you 
get the hang of simple stuff, I don't want you even tryin' it.  Your control 
is shaky enough, I mean look at Jason, he looks like a geeky cartoon."
 Jackie takes a swig of Jack Daniels and grits her teeth, "Look, 
I'm goin' to be straight with you, not necessarily because I like you, but I 
don't want you pissed and ready to run next time you come into reality.  
When I'm talkin about partners, I mean for real, a real business.
     Me an the Kid have been workin on a plan to finance a bunch 
of stuff, make us pop stars, rich and get thin's done in the world.  SH**, 
we can make this a nice place to live.  I've been financin' it all along and 
can for a long time legally.  The Kid has some skills, contacts and info 
that will do us a world of good.  We've been a good team.
       My idea is to create an agency that employs Aces, offerin' 
good money and a place to go where there are others.  For safety, for a 
sense of normalcy.  The idea is to build up a stable of Aces to be the 
core of this agency, whether by rescue or offerin' of employment.
         I don't want to play "it's my ball and you can't play", but 
everyone can't be president, or leader, or whatever.  That's the problem 
in a nutshell.  I don't want to drive anyone away, we all work better 
together.  I don't want to play super bit**, but in that frame, is how I see 
thin's.
      That's the line, or path I'm followin' now, everythin leads to 
that.  There's no room for much else.  No time for vendettas.  If you want 
to be part of it, think like that.  If you want a piece, let's get over who's 
the bit**y one, givin orders, that sort of thin'.
        Obviously, everyone has a say, whether they want to do this 
or that.  Titles mean crap, you want to think about workin' with us or for 
us is your call, but it don't matter much.  As long as it gets the job done.  
The gang...the company is there for you.  You'd get a cut of what you 
did, we'd get our cut.  It's not a matter of money or prestige, but of 
survivin' and makin' the dream happen.
        That's it.  that's why I don't want certain thin's to happen, 
that's why I'm overly tempermental.  You're free an clear, make your 
choice. Live like a hedonistic Cleopatra or a lady with real class.
        On your own, you could make plenty of cash easy.  Doin' 
make overs for the rich and flabby, the old and rich.  A million a pop, hell 
maybe you could cure cancer.  But we'll never know with all this petty 
crap.
         With all I said, are you with us, with all this in mind?  I'll try 
to treat you with a bit more respect, BUT you have to respect they path 
we follow and help with it.  No tangents.  We can't afford them, we can't 
survive them.
          S***!  You aren't even scratchin' the surface of what you 
can do.  Can you create live stuff....from inanimate junk?"  Jackie slumps 
back in the chair.
         "Boob jobs for the rich and famous....no silicone!  The vain 
of the world need apply!"  Jackie's eyes close and soft snoring ensues 
soon after.  No doubt the past day and a half without sleep, no food and 
alcohol have done her in.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

She replies to Jackie's comment about people, "I didn't mean to go rush 
out and do it right now.  'Cept maybe Jason's face.  I intentionally left it 
that way because I figured we needed it to use his credit cards and 
such.  But, I can't leave him half-way forever.  I'll need to try to change 
him back or take him all the way.  I think. But not right now."

After Jackie finishes the rest...

"Jackie I appreciate you being straight..." She heard the snores.  

Stephenie got up, went to the bedroom and got a blanket, then came 
back and tucked it around Jackie.  She reached out and gentle brushed 
the hair from Jackie's face.  No matter what else, she did appreciate 
their rescue.

She whispered, more to herself than anything else, "Its not a bad dream 
Jackie.  Maybe not big enough... but not bad."

Then she waited for George to pull over.

After the RV stops at a suitably deserted spot, Stephenie - after asking if 
either George and/or SFX want to come observe the effects and maybe 
suggest anything and if they think they should waken Jackie- exits to 
find a spot not visible from the road or other obvious observers but them 
and Jason.  She warns all of them to stand well clear of what seems to 
be the area of the 'splash' effect.

As she performs _all_ of the following she also concentrates on not 
making any changes in herself.  If any changes occur in her, she gets 
tired/fatigued or something really weird occurs, she will stop.

First, not controlling for the 'slapsh' effects, she tries to change the 
wooden shoes into high-heeled shoes appropriate for her present outfit.  
She also tried to change the first outfit so it fits her.

[If that works...]

After putting them on, she walks over to the others and takes a pair of 
Steven-sized sneakers and returning to the 'test area', tries to change 
them into appropriate shoes for her- this time also trying to control the 
'splash' effect.  She notes the results.

Then, she tried to change some trash from the RV into a jar of tanning 
creme, controlling also for the splash effect.  She notes the results.  

Then she tries to change it into a gun, also controlling for the splash 
effects.

Then to change it back to the same trash it was originally, also 
controlling for the splash effects.

[After all that... if she still can, and warning them to continue staying 
clear...]

Without controlling for splash, she changes some dirt into otherwise 
harmless, permanent light-tanning creme, in containers, sufficient 
quantity for both her and Jason.  If that's successful, she goes over and 
has Jason apply a sample then hold them as they wait to see the results.


[NOTE AGAIN, ON ALL CHANGES SHE ALSO CONCENTRATES ON 
MAKING NO CHANGES WHATSOEVER TO HER OR THE CLOTHES 
SHE IS WEARING.]

[Unless she is tired...]

She then looks around for a small animal.

<><><><><>

[GM]

George reluctantly pulls the RV over, but stays inside, having no desire 
to be anywhere near Stephanie when she starts bending reality again. 
SFX grimaces and leaves Jackie behind, but stands a "safe" distance 
from Stephanie, and between her and the RV. Jason pulls his car over 
behind the RV, and gets out, looking confused and asking Stephanie 
what's going on. SFX looks at the pale Adonis with the pudgy 
accountant's head and shudders, then regards Stephanie with a baleful 
glare.

When Stephanie holds up the wooden sandals and concentrates on 
them, they ripple and burst into flames. Stephanie yells and drops them, 
shaking her slightly scorched hand...and notices that the fingernails on 
that hand seem to have turned to metal.

//So much for superior control!// the voice of Steven's super-egotistical 
incarnation chortles. //Blew that one, didn't you?

\\Well, do you have the guts to keep going?\\ says Mr. Nasty, in an 
amused, challenging tone.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

"F***!" Stephenie yells when the shoes burst into fire.  She examines her 
fingernails, **Metal?  Jeez.**

She ignores the voices for now.

She then gives SFX and Jason an appraising look.  "Jason, could you 
please go back to the car?"  Then turning to SFX, "SFX, I know you don't 
like me.  But, this is important- for all of us.  What were you thinking just 
now, before the shoes caught fire?  Where you thinking of burning or 
Jackie at all?"

{...}

[If so, stop it here...  If not, continue as follows...]

Stephenie asks SFX to go back to the RV.

**Look, folks,** she addresses her internal voices.  **It's in all of ...  our... 
interests to try to figure this out.  So if that was one of you, if you really 
do influence this stuff, stop.  Its not going to do anyone any good if I 
burn up.  And, if you could help me control this, get the result I want... 
that would be useful.  Next time someone's chasing... us... with guns, if 
this thing screws up... we could _all_ end up dead.  Alright folks?**

She didn't like this bargaining with them, but how else to deal with them 
escaped her.  If they were influencing the effect, she couldn't just ignore 
them.

[Go ahead with the next _two_ (dress & shoes) experiments as listed 
previously, concentrating on not changing anything about herself or her 
clothes as well.  Stop if there's any other changes to her, weirdness, 
etc.]

<><><><><>

[GM]

SFX snorts. "Don't blame ME for YOUR power f***in' up! Actually, I was 
hopin' you'd turn back into Steven, if you really wanna know."

Jason walks obediently back to his car, but SFX merely walks a few 
paces further away, then turns and looks back at you. "I ain't goin' where 
I can't see what you're doing," he says.

//Stephanie, daaaaaahling// says Mr. Nasty, in a grossly exaggerated 
drawl, //it wasn't MY idea to set the damn shoes on fire! Of course I don't 
want to harm OUR body. If I *could* interfere with your use of our power, 
my thoughts were actually pretty close to the kid's; I was trying to get 
you to turn into ME!//

\\Ditto\\ says Steven.

Your attempt to fix your dress seems to work...very cautiously, you 
examine yourself after causing the dress to shift and shimmer and 
conform itself more closely to your curves, but it seems to have gone off 
perfectly.

With a smile, you concentrate on the shoes again...they transform into 
high heels all right; stilleto heels, literally, because they're made of 
metal, albeit with padded cushioning inside. The stilleto points look like 
they could seriously puncture something.

SFX shakes his head. "If I was Jason," he says with a frown, "I'd be 
REAL f***in' scared of what's gonna happen when you finally drag'm into 
your bed."

**Oh, great** Stephie mutters. **See if you can turn him off any more, 
why don't you?**

<><><><><>

Chaos:

**Stephy.  I'm not trying to do it.  But, don't you think it's curious he said 
he wanted Steven back instead of you?  On the other hand...**
She slips the heels on.

"Actually, SFX," she says turning on the charm, "I plan to drive him 
simply crazy with pleasure.  That's much nicer than being mean, don't 
you think?"

**Easier and longer lasting, too.**, she thinks, 'course, not until after he 
pleasures me completely.**

"I do think they'd come in handy though if anyone ever tried something 
like Dom did with Stephy, don't you?"  She gives him a dazzling- 
innocent smile.  "But, in case your wondering, Stephy doesn't care for 
them either."

**That's the best I can do Stephy.  There's something seriously freaking 
that boy and I don't think its the fact that I've got t***... exactly.**

**As for you Steven, lean back and enjoy the ride.  How often do you 
think a man gets to see what's its like to be a fabuolous woman from the 
inside?  After all, if all of us came from you- and there doesn't seem to 
be any other candidates, unless you came from _me_- then part of you 
must _want_ to be me.  Don't wuss out now that you finally got it, hon.**

 ***

Concentrating on not changing anything about herself or the clothes, 
etc. she's wearing, and trying to control the splash effect, she continues 
with the other experiments.

<><><><><>

[GM]

The sneakers Jackie bought for Steven turn into little balls of fur....alive 
or not, you can't tell, but they kind of resemble tribbles. The ground 
under them turns into bubbling blue mud, into which the furballs start 
sinking. Little crackling sparks of electricity comes drifting out of the mud 
and begin floating around your ankles.

//Strike two!// says Mr. Nasty.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

She moves away from the electric fizz, kicks off her heels and then tries 
to pull the furballs out of the mud with the harnd without the metal 
fingernails, careful not to get her clothes in it and as little on her fingers 
as possible.

Standing up and brushing her dress off, she thinks.  Then says, "SFX
I hope you understand its in your interests that I figure this out to.  So if 
you have any ideas, don't keep them to yourself.  Now, let's see.
First one, flames.  Second, worked ok.  Third, kind of right. Fourth, 
weird-o.  No, the first one was in the RV.  Maybe it takes time to 
recharge to a controllable level?  Or maybe I really _am_ Chaos?"

She thinks, **Ok.  So far, none have been harmful.  Well, to _me_ any 
way.**

"SFX, any idea?"

[If not, she'll try to determine if she is fatigued, then- if not- wait about 30 
minutes and try the tanning creme.]

<><><><><>

[GM]

SFX says "My power's pretty simple. I point and make a loud noise. But 
refining some of my other talents took a little time. I dunno how long it 
took Jackie to be able to make metal pit bulls, but she couldn't do it right 
away, I bet. You've had this power, what, less'n a day? And who the hell 
knows how it works? You seem to be tappin' into your subconscious, 
and maybe other peoples' as well. You creatin' things you didn't even 
imagine. You got some weird power, and you probably ain't gonna be 
able to make it do exactly what you want right away, if ever. Prob'ly you 
can improve it with practice, but the way it seems to pull all kindsa s*** 
out of your psyche, I'm thinkin' to a certain extent, mebbe it's got a mind 
of its own."

"Could be all kinds a things affect it. You just had a coupla glasses of 
bubbly...not the best condition to be tryin' controlled experiments in 
alterin' reality. You're also prob'ly tired, an' stressed 'cause you had 
some guys shootin' at you, and who knows what the hell is goin' on in 
your head, when you seem to change personalities every time you 
change bodies. Best thing is prob'ly you practice a little more, then lay 
off any more of this quantum crap until you get a good night's sleep."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

**Yeah, 'if ever'**, she thought.

"You know, SFX, you're one smart cookie.  I was thinking the same 
things."

**Though, what I really need,** she thought, **is a bit more than just a 
little sleep.**

She proceeds with the tanning creme stuff- concentrating on also 
making sure there are no changes to her or her clothing and controlling 
the splash effect- stopping immediately if she feels tired or anything else 
changes as to her.

After that, she returns to the RV, checks on Jackie, tells George to go 
ahead and drive and asks SFX if he turned anything in the police reports 
and other stuff for the Mardis Gras thing.

<><><><><>

[GM]

With a grimace, you pull the furballs out of the mud. They don't seem to 
be alive, but hell if you know what they are.

You think of tanning creme, and do your thing again. The furballs melt 
into a warm green goo that drips all over your hand, and dribbles onto 
the ground with wet splats.

SFX says "Maybe you just better not push your luck anymore today." 
Inclined to agree, you return to the RV, kick off your heels, and think 
sourly about Jason, that wonderful, hardened physique just a couple 
car-lengths behind you....and totally inaccessible, for the moment.

As you get back underway, SFX slaps a fist into his palm and exclaims 
"YES! Finally got the goddam modem an' satellite hookup workin' again." 
He looks over his shoulder at you and says "Now maybe I can see about 
gettin' some info. Just try not to do that psycho-LSD thing anymore, 
electronics don't seem to deal well with havin' their quantum-whatevers 
messed up."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

She gave SFX a warm smile and says in a sultry voice, "Ooo, I love a 
man who likes his work.  Mind if I sat and watch?  I promise," she 
crosses her bosom slowly with the fingers of one hand, "no psycho-
LSD."

She waits a while as SFX works, watching his body move with growing 
interest.  

**He's actually not bad.  And, if I could do this right, it'd give me lever 
over him... and Jackie.  Thought actually, I could just really use the 
f***.** she thinks.

After a while, she waits until SFX is looking her way, then rubs her legs 
and feet slowly and sensuously.  "You know, SFX," she says, "your 
awfully cute when you're working."

She is careful not to make an overt pass until after he has the info from 
the net, etc., settling for showing him bits of cleavage, stretching 
nonchalantly to show her body off and generally just reminding him now 
and then that there's a gorgeous, sexy, available woman sitting just a 
few feet away from him.  However, she is careful not to tweak him too 
hard.

<><><><><>

[GM]

//Like, aren't you a little *old* for him?// snaps Stephie, cattily.

SFX taps away at the computer, and seems to be making a deliberate 
effort not to look at you. He doesn't respond to your little come-ons, but 
from the way he shifts nervously and keeps staring with ever-greater 
intensity at the computer screen, you can tell he's not oblivious to them.

After a while he reluctantly turns towards you, his eyes flickering to your 
cleavage, which you're displaying to full advantage, just for a moment 
before returning to your face. He looks annoyed, as if his gaze was 
diverted against his will.

"I couldn't get much out of the New Orleans' police system...they ain't 
totally stupid, and know what kind of crap hackers could pull if their 
arrest records an' stuff was accessible from the outside. My friends are 
still workin' on gettin' more info. They pulled a coupla newspaper 
articles, about a police bust at a party that got outta hand durin' Mardis 
Gras. Seems like half the people there were on LSD, hallucinatin' and 
actin' real crazy. Accordin' to the article." He looks at you warily. "Also 
some fires got set, and people were 'injured', but the newspapers didn't 
go into much detail, 'cept that some cops were among the injured. No 
mention of any names in particular. But it took place on St. Ann's street, 
near Jackson Square. Sound familiar?"

\\Yeah\\ comes Steven's voice glumly. \\That's where we went...for the 
party...can't remember much after that though...ask him about Richard!\\ 
The last comes in a demanding tone that you like not at all.

"They also got into the Louisiana State Police network", SFX continues, 
"and there's an APB out on you- that is, Steven Moore. You're listed as 
'armed and extremely dangerous', and the police are bein' told to contact 
the FBI if you're sighted. It's now goin' out to all neighboring states, 
which means the troopers in Texas'll be lookin' for you- Steve, I mean, 
as well. That FBI tipoff prob'ly means that the feds know you're a 
superhuman, but they ain't tellin' the local cops. Me and my friends, 
we're pretty sure the feds have some kinda shadow agency that tracks 
Aces, and maybe they have some Aces on their side."

He stands up and stretches. "Which is just f***in' great," he says with a 
yawn. "I always wanted to be on the run and harborin' a fugitive from a 
loony bin. With a dangerous, crazy Ace...at least from *their* point of 
view," he adds at your irritated expression, "you can bet they ain't gonna 
mess around."

You're starting to contemplate whether you want to make a serious play 
for the kid now, when from up front, George clears his throat and speaks 
up; you'd almost forgotten about your chauffeur until now. "Uh, your 
friend, whatsisname, Jason, he's weavin'.....shee**, he just swerved over 
to the side of the road!"

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie replies silently to Stephy: **Hmmm... Oh I wouldn't say 6 
years is too old.  And after all, if he'd just do it, maybe he'd forget about 
Steven or get over it or something.**

Stephenie notes SFX's gaze and annoyance, **Well... that's 
interesting.**

When Steven pipes up and demands, she replies, **Hush, boy.  I was 
going to, but now I think I'll wait just a little bit.  I'll ask him, don't worry, 
but when _I_ want.**

She chuckles at the word on the APB, and says to SFX smiling 
dazzingly, "Well, then its a good thing that I'm not Steven, isn't it?  Nope 
not a thing like him."

When George pips up: **Oh hell.  Perfect timing.**

To George she calls sweetly, "Then pull over to."

Turning to SFX, she says, "SFX, I know you must be tired, hon, but 
could you help me with Jason."

Meanwhile, she's thinking about the annoyed look on his face and what 
a lark it would be if she could just make him try to kiss her.

[If SFX joins her outside...]

As they walk over to Jason's car, Stephenie asks SFX what if anything 
he found out about Richard.

When they get to the car she checks Jason out, questoning him as well 
to see if she can figure anything out.

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jackie is abruptly shaken awake by SFX. "Yo, white girl!" Through 
bleary eyes, Jackie sees the black teenager peering into her face. "Yo, 
there's a problem with Queen Crazy's pet stud, better wake up!" George 
is pulling the RV to the side of the road.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie snorts at SFX's comment.  **Queen Crazy indeed.  You horny 
little... If it wouldn't freak Jackie out to no end... I ought to just zap your 
head like Jason's and then turn you into a gorgeous little bimbo.  
_That'd_ get you over it.  Might be fun too.**

"I'm going to check on Jason," she said as Jackie pulled herself 
together.  

When the RV stopped, she left and walked to the Acura.

**Bet she didn't even notice the blanket.**

When she got to the car, she checked Jason out, questoning him as well 
to see if she can figure anything out.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 Jackie glares at SFX, shooting daggers at him, but catches 
herslef as pieces of metal start to skitter across the floor at him.  Taking 
seconds to remember who she is and the potential for danger, she jumps 
up and grabs SFX, "Ok, what?!"
    She looks around for the LED clock and groans when she 
sees it's barely been a few hours since she apparently dozed off.  *At 
least there isn't a thin' wrong with the RV*

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jackie staggers out of the RV just behind SFX, as Stephanie, ahead of 
them, approaches Jason.

He jumps out of his car, pointing at Stephanie, and she realizes that he's 
reverted to his original body, now with the clothes created for his taller, 
muscular frame hanging loosely around him.

"Get away from me!" he screams, panicked, as he sees Stephanie 
approaching him. "What did you do to me!?"

//OOPS!// says Mr. Nasty in mock-horror. //Gosh, guess we got a 
problem, huh?// He laughs.

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie sees the change in Jason.  **Oh brother...**

He accuses her.

To Mr. Nasty's remark she replies, **Not necesarily.**

To Jason she says, archingly, "Why, whatever do you mean, Jason?  
'Do to you?'  Last I saw, you were only too happy to follow me with your 
tongue hanging out."

To Jackie, "Isn't that just typical of a man.  Blame the woman for the fact 
that he made a damn fool of himself chasing after her."

Turning back to Jason: "Just what is it that I'm supposed to have done, 
hon?"

<><><><><>

[GM]

"You....you....you CHANGED me!" Jason exclaims. "You did something 
to my head...and my body! What are you, a space alien or something?"

SFX catches up to Stephanie, and mutters "Looks like your 
transformations ain't permanent, at least on people. So much for havin' 
your own private boytoy."

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 *I knew it, I knew it*  Jackie rolls her eyes and starts for Jason 
and his car.
       Staring hard at Stephenie, Jackie growls, "Get in the RV, I'm 
asking you.  I'll clean this mess up.  I don't have time for arguments and 
have too much patience for delays like this."
   To Jason, "Look buddy, I'm glad you're out of your drug high 
now, you've given us enough trouble.  You had your fun with my friend, 
but the party is over.  I don't know what drugs you two took, but they 
must have been good.  If you don't stop followin us I'm goin to call the 
cops.  My friend has had enough of a good time.
   It's over Romeo, you had your fun.  You try anythin with me I'll 
kick your a**, that's a promise.  They got laws against stalkin you know."

<><><><><>

Chaos:

Stephenie did not _really_ want to lose Jason, she could always zap up 
another hardbody for him she thought.  But... it would make matters 
simpler.  Besides, SFX was more of a challenge.  And if they were the 
new aristocracy, then Jason _was_ rather common.  Nor, did she like the 
tone Jackie was taking with her.  However, seeing Jackie trying to send 
that ugly little man away confused and guilty almost made up for it.  
Almost.

She huffed, but said nothing, and just stood watching Jason's reaction.

When it came, she laughed.  "'Changed' you?  'Space alien'?  My your's 
must have been a whole lot better than mine!  Got anymore of those 
drugs, Jason?  Or are you saving them all for your wife?  I wonder how 
she'd react when she found out that you took advantage of a poor, 
defenseless young woman?"

She was laughing inside.

<><><><><>

Jacqueline:

 *Good, not that she's dumb, but I guess she can follow my lead 
just as well as bein scarce*  Jackie smiles to Stephenie.
        "Look bud, I don't like the way you been treatin my friend, I'd 
hightail it outta here toot sweet, get my meanin?  George this guy's givin 
us some trouble, be a good ole boy and show this creep our shotgun.  
You think since you got money bub that you can treat anyone like trash?  
You picked the wrong gal.  Get out of here while you got your teeth!"
  Jackie glares manacingly at Jason, pouring real anger from 
being awoken so abruptly into it.

<><><><><>

[GM]

Jackie and even Stephanie can't help feeling a little sorry for the poor 
fool, as his eyes bug out and he looks back and forth between the two 
women, and at the black teenager who is regarding him with a mixture of 
pity and irritation. Behind the group, George is leaning out the window of 
the RV, watching, and looks surprised when Jackie asks for the shotgun.

"You...you....I didn't....you're crazy! You- I-" the chubby car salesman 
gapes, looking around in a panic as he's accused of drugging them.

"I didn't do anything! You did it! You're crazy!" he screams, as he runs 
for his car, jumps in, and throws it into reverse with a horrible screeching 
of tires.

As he swerves back onto the highway and makes an abrupt U-turn 
across the road, gunning the engine as hard as he can, SFX shakes his 
head. "Girl, that was cold....quick thinkin', but cold."