Ch. 1 Viscosity pg. 2

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Chapeau rushed to her Labs eager to try something out she was working on. Bangle was not exactly the easiest to communicate with. They had a barrier and while they worked on it, they needed some assistance. There came the modified google glasses that Chapeau had been working on. They were much sleeker than their earliest counterpart but appearance wasn't the focus. The focus was on the extra microphones installed along the stems. Chapeau had changed the operating system and its sole reason for existence for speech to text. It'd present Bangle with whatever Chapeau would be saying. Just in case hands and lips weren't in view. A good half hour later, Chapeau was sitting on her couch waiting for notice of Bangles arrival. And right on the minute she received a message on her phone. The snipers had spotted her walking up the drive-way. With that, Chap sat up and walked to the door. Once in range Chapeau would sign as best as she could to 'follow me'. Once inside, she closed the door and lead her over to the couch. She turned around and motioned for Bangle to sit down.
'You look wonderful today Bangle, how have you been?' starting with the small talk as she examined anything that was presented. She'd give Bangle a moment to settle before offering the glasses. "Put these on, please it'll be easier on us both." At least Bangle would see what Chap was saying regardless of orientation. Chapeau could simply glance at Bangles hands and/or device. Once she decided to put it on, Chapeau gave it a test. "Hows it look? Lot better than holding a huge tablet to read on right?"

Honestly the house was impressive no matter how many times Bangle saw it, she had issues imagining living in anything that large. Sure, the home she shared with her sibling was a fair size, but much of it was a greenhouse, it didn't really count, she surmised. A short bow indicated her understanding and gratefulness for Chapeau's offer before she crossed the threshold and followed Chaps common household mannerisms. Shoes were such a pain.
Her tablet wasn't quite active yet, but she figured she could simplify her response enough, especially if she mouthed the words as well <<I've been well, if busy. The way I should be. Thank you! And yourself?>> even then, she signed slowly and very clearly, not the slurred and blurred mess that happened between her and Cuff. God help anyone else trying to translate those two.
When able, Bangle had unpacked a couple of rolls and allowed her tablet to boot. At the very least she wanted to keep the blueprints from getting bent or otherwise damaged. She was finicky about that. So, so finicky. Would practically steam press paper if she saw creases in it.
Chaps gesture of handing the glasses, though, threw her off. Why in Hells name...? A request was a request, of course, but it was an odd one, and she never was the type for glasses. aving placed them on her head, however, she gave Chap a mildly confused expression that changed quickly to surprised at the text. Well then!
<< I can't deny that! >>

Of course the mouthing of the words worked, it was Bangle remember? Who could resist look at those lips? Not this worthless lesbian who now had an excuse to watch. 'Yeah I'm just reading, no big deal' Chap loved when things worked out. Chap motioned for a table to roll over and provide a flat surface for blueprints. She had a few robots laying around the house and some of them were furniture. Sometimes she was too lazy to come to the couch, so she'd have the couch come to her. Technologically brilliant but incredibly fucking lazy. She placed her hands on it and raised it up to a suitable height as it was near footrest levels. "I apologize however for the technological fashion nightmare on your otherwise flawless face. But at least it works, maybe we'll make some out of it. You should be able to work hands free, no?" Coming across clear as day for Bangle. The text to speech was superior considering the extra microphones and the memory being allocated solely to translation. If anything those glasses only served that purpose alone.
"Now while we wait, I love your hair I don't think I've gotten a chance to tell you. It is so lovely, makes you fierce and I can appreciate that." Especially considering how different Bangle was from years ago.

Bangle, in typical Bangle fashion, would reply with a simple soft smile. That expression could mean many things with her, but in this circumstance it was genuine and sweet. She could suffer the way it looked for this in all honesty. It couldn’t be that bad. They weren’t clubmasters or raybans or something - those looked awful on her. So who cares? Her hand slid over her tablet and she booted her speech program, taking the waiting opportunity to pull out one sheathlike, smokey object, and other small blueprints. Styping quickly, she unfurled them as the program spoke.
< Some Research Leads and I have been looking at ways to make the Neutralizers more easly accessible and cost efficient since the Whiplash breach back in September. This one -> she pointed to the first blueprint. < was the original designs. However, the second one is more streamlined; we think that while Ghost Sins can increase the potency of our weapons, Gluttony ones seem to negate them by absorbing some strength from them - but also from the Ghosts as well. This is more efficient than the previous method we had to utilize with...more Heavenly aligned persons, regardless of the hunting. > Her expressions matched the speech where it lit up on the screen, giving inflection to her words. Some of that certanly seemed disdainful at the least; especially those who are aligned with the opposing species < This way, if we were cleared to exit the gates more frequently, we can do on the scene training for HQ employees, and capture some Ghosts at the same time. This could allow us to build more up for later, and upgrade the Neutralizing weaponry. >

There she go, the smile curving up again, what was she thinking? With Bangle it wasn't incredibly hard to tell. It was all in her beautiful eyes and facial expression. But you had to be able to stare at her long enough to see it. Though she didnt miss Bangle pulling out a few objects. What exactly was the smokey object? She'd let Bangle explain when it came time to do it. Interrupting the head Researcher mid explanation was disrespectful.
"Are these early ones similar to what I saw back in September?" If so she had seen them in action and had already approved them personally. The streamline and far more cost effective version were welcome though. She gave them a good look before focusing on the next set of blueprints. Bangle had it all thought out and that was appreciated. Time was money and Chapeau preferred information to be clear and with her best interests in mind, good job Bangle. "We'll have to test them out then wont we. Much smaller sample size this time, another Whiplash would be too much." It was clear however how Bangle felt about the other species. Though it was not a surprise considering how long the species had been at war. At least she knew Bangle had no loyalty qualms. "Wonderful, I am in favor of the idea of two birds and one stone." Normally she hated giving clearance to leave as the Wastelands werent a great place to be but she understood the need. Bangle was also experienced and the infantry that would accompany the groups was second to none. "You have my approval for clearance, I'd like to see these things in action. Whiplash was a little too big for a standard test."

It was unusual to see Chapeau's words scroll across the screen in translation, but very convenient - and worked as a wonderful tool for practicing lip reading more than Bangle had previously. For this the odd little device was appreciated, regardless of how bizarrely it sat on her face. Her questions were expected, and met with positive body language and quick typing, her fingers sounding soft taps on the screen as she did < These are similar to the original Neutralisers that you are long familiar with, correct. Our sample shouldn't be terribly large and unless things go awry past the walls, should remain that way. Infantry has managed to scout an area not far from the city for the targeted Ghost, but not near enough to be of threat. What they spotted can't be considered much of a nightmare, but they suspect it will be a little more difficult to take down by virtue of its armoured body and subterranean nature. This could be good practice for them regardless, even with trained hands behind; by the context photo it doesn't appear to be overwhelming in size either. > She navigated through the tablet as it spoke for her, eventually pulling up the hologram of a lengthy, odd looking beast of a storey and some in height, hunched from its exoskeleton and body type. < As shown. We've seen similar Ghosts out by the destroyed Angel Base as well, but as of late they have been dissipating, what with the odd fog in some areas. Those are still under investigation - as requested. However, Mistress, would you like to test the cover out? In reference to simple attachment to your weapon, of course. > From there Bangle surmised she could explain the rest.

Having things so well set up were a blessing to Chapeau. This was a business meeting and as such, her time was important. Bangle understood that and Chapeau appreciated it. Chapeau devoted her attention to the tablet, whenever it began and would make a few nods confirming she understood. "I would appreciate a little test especially with something on a much smaller scale. Whiplash taught me we aren't ready for big ones." With that, she scanned the hologram and weighed the options. "In this case, I think we can definitely take that considering we handled Whiplash. It would be nice to have something toned down too. You have my blessing for this task, I think it'd benefit us both greatly." Training and a supply run, how could Chapeau argue with that. If anything, Efficiency was a sure fire way to earn her favor. She was always looking for faster and easier ways to do things. It was what gave her that untouched edge with Daten. "As for the cover, give me a moment and I shall retrieve a hat." Chapeau then scooted over to the other side of the couch and looking toward the hall. "Ruban, throw me a hat!" And receiving a confirmation, before a Hat flew out from the hall to which Chap would catch. "3 points! You didn't get it in my hands" And receiving some bitter comment about being gipped. With the hat in hand, Chapeau pulled at the peak of the hat and extended Ordo out. She used the extra space to set it down for application. "I'll use the big Ordo."

Bangle nodded in agreement as Chapeau stated the gist of what Bangle had been aiming for with the teams. It was incredibly important to be on the same page, and she was more than glad that they were. With Chapeaus consent, Bangle typed out a description of what she was doing and allowed the tablet to speak. With the highlighted word cues in her periphery, she pulled the displayed Neutraliser sheath closer and took a very light grip of Ordo, lifting the sword with the same sort of care she would for her own blade. She tapped the sheath against the table to demonstrate its solidity.
< As you are already aware, these sheaths were previously custom made, but it is evident here that this sheath does not match with Ordo. This is no issue. > She angled the edge of the blade into the sheath, which almost shuddered under the edge, expanding and adjusting for the sword much like it was made of some sort of silicone. < With the addition of the Gluttony serum, we've also taken the liberty to optimize the Neutralisers to remove this customisation and allow for more universality. > the metallic ring of the tablet continued, its bizarre pronunciation echoing about as she continued to move the sword down, the blade bottoming out t the base of the sheath, which had expanded and conformed to the weapon itself. < This allows for us to place these along the walls, which may require less Enforcement training and will also be made easily accessible to employees across the city. This can save production time and effort, along with armoury space. > Bangle's tablet continued as she respectfully held the sword back out to Chapeau, the sword now having dulled from its vivid red to a silvery tone while the black remained intact. It clearly looked insulated, but the edge very obviously remained. The only real difference was a slight increase in thickness of the weapon.

"Fascinating, Its good to know we are on the same page. With each ranking weapons change, it'd become costly to replace or adjust sheathes so this is good news. I'd like to find a more abundant alternative though, but I will be putting much more support in Research" If anything Chap may actually allow a few more runs to do some collections.

Once Ordo was in Chaps hand, she'd stand move a good distance and take a practice swing. Not much difference in weight, but it had gained some thickness. This was the reason she invested in a new Research department when she first became the Potentate. Research and Development always had some interesting things to show. This was one of the many fruits of her labor, most specifically Bangle in this case and her team. "A reminder of why I continue to support R&D. It reminds me of all blades I have used simply from thickness. Nostalgia aside, I am impressed, very nice Job." Chapeau recognized good ideas from the start. Supporting this further mean security in the future for ghosts. Considering Whiplash, this was direly needed and not up for question. She wasn't risking that event happening twice.
She returned and set it down, waiting to see if Bangle had anything else to show. And of course, she wanted to watch Bangle take it off. "What is next?"

It was an interesting experience to receive translation as she typed, immediately having a response for Chapeau's statement. Of course, Mistress, she had planned ahead for this. Why else would she be known to be as thorough as she is if she did not? Bangle's attention broke upon the weapons test, content with seeing the blade leave a light trail of the same shade the Neutraliser had made it. No red in sight. Beautiful. < It may be possible to synthesize alternatives, but we aren't at that phase of development. Though it is in progress. > and with that she pulled through the duffel bag, rooting around some extraneous items before pulling out a box and placing it on the table. Undoing the ribbon on her neck, a small key was removed from the centre of the bow and used to unlock it - the two placed back around her person immediately. Opening the box, a small amount of what appeared to be smoke eased out, giving the impression of some sort of temporary cryogenic process taking place. She typed another quick explanation before continuing.
< I've been meaning to show you this. These are simply serum samples from various Naturalized Sins that we have captured, many being remainders from the False Angel events of the 2087 project. However, some are more recent in capture. > She lifted the Greed serum as this was highlighted. < Such as the Whiplash samples. > With that she placed the test tube back.
< Would you like to give it a quick test with an extremely minor ghost from the Serums? We've been testing the Neutralisers with regularity and I can assure you it will be of no risk. >

"That is fair, I look forward to hearing progress. I know you have the same ideas I do in the future for it, so I'll put my full support into the project. You may approach me directly if needed." It'd be nice to be back with Research after handing the reigns over so long ago. But that would be if she was needed which she doubted. It would be nice just to see the labs though, she heard improvements were made. The next item produced however was unexpected. Certainly interesting but very unexpected at least from what she thought this meeting was about. "Its good to see them in person, I had been wondering about their application for a while. But that is a project for another day." She didn't want to spread Bangle any thinner. Especially considering she might snap if Chap did that. Bangle was smaller than her thighs, Chapeau was sure of it.

"I will not pass up a small test, but before we start I'd like a detailed run down of what you want me to do. So you know, we don't have any misunderstandings." And of course, she had to figure out proper use of the Neutralisers. Chap might bend the rules often but she knows them quite well. The same applied to procedure and she very rarely skipped procedure. She was just (as she reasons) a good example of what not to be. Ruban from the nearby room felt an intense desire to yell 'You are garbage Chappu-chan' but refrained because of company.

Her responses were almost automatic - it was handy to know your boss well. Then you could predict what they'd want and ask with at least some certainty. < Of course. All it would be is a step by step process. I get the serum on the ground outdoors, prod it into a very small Ghost - for such a small sample it won't do much beyond get slightly tangible - and you can prod it around and return it to serum state. It's just a demonstration of what the sheath is capable of in comparison to the old ones, which would simply allow for damage and corralling. >

Bangle was ideal when it came to projects. She was well prepared and that made Chap far more willing to co-operate. Especially when factors such as ghost manipulation were involved. Even this close to her would be enough for her not to be interested, but Bangle was far different that other researchers. She was certain Bangle had at least 2 fail safes should anything go wrong. And she knew her craft well enough to trust her with experiments. Not that Chapeau couldn't handle it, but part of leading a group was trusting your subordinates. "I'd be honored to try it out. With my seal of approval I am sure there should be no reservations over using it."

With a soft gesture and a new vial, Bangle waved Chapeau outside, only then pulling the bracelet from her wrist and swinging it around her hand. The metal transformed with each spin, widening in diameter and darkening in colour, eventually leaving a trail of light behind it. It would be annoying to have the tablet for this portion, so instead she elected to run on the instructions previously given to her superior and rely on her understanding. Once certain Chapeau was ready, she unscrewed the vial and poured some of the strange, oozy fluid into her palm, which responded with a sharp hiss and a flash of red. Blowing the bit of smoke from it, she flicked her wrist towards the ground and swiftly sliced her ring blade directly through it, the bifurcated serum coming back together into a barely tangible shape. A few quick hits later, and it was corporeal enough to be slapped around, but not do very much. It was barely recognisable for...whatever it was, beyond a Wrath sin - the most common of the Pures that they had. She gave Chapeau a welcoming hand motion to give her blade a test with it, screwing the vial back up just afterwards.

With the blade in hand and a very quick text Chap followed Bangle outside. Once outside, Chapeau would wave her hand and give a thumbs up for a solid 5 seconds before Bangle began. This was simply to advise the snipers that she wasn't a hostage. It was one of the many ways she could confirm she was safe, but this one was the most visible. "Okay I'm ready" And with that the Potentate took her position.
'prod it around and return it to serum state' was simple but it would take her a moment to do. She very gently reached out and bapped it on the head. She bapped it a few times to see what mere contact did. If anything she wanted to learn the limits of the device. Once content she gently and firmly grasped the blade. She followed this with a hammer like motion and hit the beast with the guard to dematerialize.

Any of Chapeaus bopping simply caused whatever the hell this Ghost would later manifest as, with more energy, to stumble about a little bit. Completely fucking worthless shitty Ghost. It was't even particularly aggressive, just sort of...looked offended, really. Even though it didn't have a face you could tell it was not impressed that Chapeau was slapping it around, but it didn't grow...though it did dull slightly with each tap. Upon Chapeau causing what was lethal damage to such a small Ghost, the Neutraliser picked up a slight reddish tinge where she had hit the Ghost, equivalent to the amount of Sin within it. Giving Chapeau a moment, Bangle then reached out and took handle of the Potentate's blade. She was very careful of her grip with it, but she then demonstrated how to slip the sheath off, almost like peeling it away. With the Neutraliser removed, she returned the sword to its rightful owner and gestured back inside, placing the empty vial back in the cryo area and...wringing the Ghost Serum out? How queer.
< The Neutralisation gear is porous and can absorb strength, but does not permanently rob it from a Demon's weapon. This is unlike what aggressive actions towards a Ghost will do, which will take away their strength. These condensate within the Neutraliser's materials and can be wrung out, as you saw, by hand. As of yet we haven't found a maximum capacity for the Neutralisation gear, even at full and brightest colour the fluid volume will still increase without change to the gear itself. >

"That was a fun experiment, I definitely learned a lot" Especially after watching her Wring out Ghost Serum. Though as a Researcher, she could not doubt Bangles true intentions. After all, she would never waste anything especially ghosts. "I'll need to borrow a set like we just uses to show DJ, I hope you do not mind. I'll return it end of day, I just need to make sure he understands the fundamentals." Especially if Bangle or Chap suffered a knock out or something. He could help teach if needed too which was far more efficient than having Bangle or Chap do it.
Once they were cleared to enter, Chap followed behind and got a good view. She closed the door when they finally entered and followed Bangle back to the couch. "Keeping busy in Research though? Good to see, I was worried for naught. I guess we'll need to work out the kinks though. But at least from this test, we got more than just a prototype. We should celebrate, but first, whats left?"

With a little bow, Bangles smile grew and softened. < As of now, that's all I wished to show you for examples, Mistress. However, you've every right to speak with DJ on the subject and are more than welcome to make use of some of the gear for examples. >

"Molto Bene, I'm thinking Italian for celebration. A job well done Research, consider yourselves blessed. I definitely was waiting but now I have no reservations about raising the budget for your section. I'll get in contact with him though and visit him a little later on. Its early in the day, he is sure to have paperwork to finish."
With that Chap smiled and the two were done with business.  ROLEPLAY LOG CAN BE FOUND HERE