A Scripta

Degenerate watched the Fortunata come into his office. She wore the helmet that would protect her from telepathic influences - most of the time. However, this one man was allowed entry.

"I was concerned about you, Ariane."

You disgust me.

She grunted as he forced his way into her mind. Is that any way to treat me?

"No," she said, though her thoughts were very different.


Take off your helmet.

She struggled, as she always did, but he easily overpowered it and forced her hands to remove the helmet. Her blond hair was cut short in the normal Fortunata manner. She gave him an angry look.


You love me. You adore me.

Her gaze softened, and she smiled at him, a sexy, seductive smile. "Hi, stud."

He smiled. "Much better. Come over here."

When he finished, he gazed at her naked body in the dimming light of the setting sun. She smiled up at him adoringly. Ever since he had charmed his way into her mind, he knew exactly what to do to get her to do anything he wanted, and because of his assistance she was able to attain Fortunata status. Still, she never understood that, and he often had to force his way with her. Arachnos could attempt to brainwash her, but he could control her.

"So, did you find out about the man I told you about?"

"Yes," she purred, and lazily caressed his chest as she spoke. "According to Vanguard, Jack Whitney was a member of the Phalanx of Paragon City, but now he's a member of a group called Safe Havens. They operate out of Kings Row in Paragon City. There's about ten members according to our records."

"I might need their names later. Know anything about his powers?"

"Level 4 psionic. Telepath, telekinesis."

Dammit, so was he, at least that's the amount of power dampening they did to him in the Zig.

"He can put people to sleep, make them immobile, disturb them. Nothing about mind control like you." She gazed up at him. "Oh, and he was given Vanguard weapons, which he favors."

"Ack, guns. I hate guns."

"He also has a telepathic connection, according to the Phalanx files."

"Oh?"

"Yes it was --" she froze.

He got tired of talking, and instead invaded her mind and pulled out the information he needed. While he was there, he got the information about the traitors to the Phalanx and the subsequent joining with Safe Havens. He nodded and yanked out none too gently, leaving her panting for breath at the pain.

Rising from the couch, he reached for his clothes. "I have a performance tonight," he said. "You are welcome to join me."


I would never -- She froze again as he grabbed hold of her mind. "Sure, stud."