MALL RAT // open

[Miranna D'Amato]

Mira giggled like a three year old as she practically pranced over the archway. She saw the doll shop and smiled brightly at it. Her hands went to to window as she glared through them with a sudden longing. Dolls. Oh how she loved dolls. It was more than just her mutant abilities that made her love puppets and dolls and action figures. Mira loved having control over the little things... making them do as she wanted. Daddy loved controlling people, but people already had life of their own. Mira, as a child, made her dolls come to life and played tea party's and meetings of negotiations. And even Daddy gave her the pleasure of sitting in with her sometimes. She turned to her subordinates and waved as she went inside, giggling.

Ernie sighed. The missus always acted like this at the mall. She would drag Mack and him once a month to the mall. There she would buy and buy and buy until her limo was completely full. And don't he dare tease her about it. When she got angry or upset, that...THING... showed up. Ernie was always afraid of... what did she call it, Stalker? It was death itself put into the hands of a seventeen year old rich mafia girl. Who had herself a temper. Who had to be pleased with her.

"Ain't she cute, Ernie?" Mack said patting his back. Ernie sat the arms full of crap that Mira had pulled out. Ernie glared down at his small compatriot. The man was head over heels in love with the girl. Mira knew it. Her father knew it. Hell, everyone that knew Mack knew he was in love with the girl. But Mira saw him as a subordinate. And as a subordinate she left the relationship at that, no more, no less.

Mira walked up to the store clerk and smiled happily. Placing the small white teddy bear on the counter she began to rifle through her purse for money, when the strangest thing happened. A man came running full speed from the back of the store and ripped her purse from her. Mira stood there stunned. Her two subordinates seemed to be as stunned as she was and Mack ran inside. He inspected her closely, and saw the lines on her forehead set in.

"Uh oh... Mira. Mira, baby. Remember your temper."
"That man. Stole. My purse."
"I know but your temp-"

Ernie strode into the store sighing. "Would you like to hunt for the poor bastard?"

Mira shot Ernie a fierce look but then finally checked her temper. She knew not to let her emotions get the better of her in public. Her abilities were to remain a secret. "Let's. I want to bring him to Daddy. Oh I have plenty of ways to... persuade him not to do it again. But Daddy has been bored and I want to see him happy."

Ernie and Mack visibly shivered. Mr. D'Amato, or Boss as Mack called him, was an extremely unforgiving man especially when it came to her daughter. And Mira just loved watching people squirm under her father's gaze. They both nodded and escorted the girl out of the store and out into the mall to track down the unlucky man.

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,415,bTable]

[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke made his way through the busy mall, eyes focused ahead on the task at hand. He was merely here to buy something. He wanted to be in and out quick. For one, he really didn't have the time to just wander around the mall aimlessly. And of course he didn't like being in busy places like this. It made him worry about his powers slipping. Not that it seemed to be much of a problem anymore, considering he had finally got a good control over it finally. But the fear of being found out was still there so it was better to be safe than sorry he supposed. He was simply here for the book store within, hoping to find some more information. He doubted there would be much of anything there but the more research material he had, the better. He would figure this out soon. He was sure. It would just take some hard work on his part. That and to not run into any trouble. Unfortunately, he seemed to be a trouble magnet. Most of the time, jerks liked to challenge him after hearing the rumors that he was a tough guy. Other times, he just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Perhaps just like now. Daisuke's eyes widened in surprise when he felt someone run into him, the man loosing his balance and falling back while Dai managed to keep upright with his shadow keeping his feet planted. He looked down to the man, about to offer to help him to his feet when he noticed the purse as well as the rather panicked look in his eyes. It didn't take him long to put two and two together. Looked like he just got bumped into by a petty thief. As the man scrambled to his feet, trying to escape before he was caught, Daisuke grabbed him by the back of his shirt, pulling him back and getting a tight grip on him to keep him from running off. "Where are you going in such a hurry?" he began. "How about you hand over that purse and make this easier on yourself?" he offered with a serious look on his face. The guy immediately struggled to get free, even going further to try and make up excuses for why he had the purse. "Right." he said sarcastically. "It really goes well with your outfit." he smirked. He never liked these sort of guys. It was one thing to steal but from a woman? There was no way he was going to let him get away from it. And he didn't seem like he was going to admit to his crime and give up anytime soon. So with that in mind, he punched him fiercely in the gutt, watching the purse fall as he folded over onto the ground, arms around his waist as he groaned in pain. "That's more like it." he chuckled before picking up the purse and looking around the area for any sign of the girl he'd stolen from whilst keeping a close eye on the man in question. There was no way he'd get away now though. He was controlling his shadow to keep him glued to the floor. WORDS! 543 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! Hope this is okay. :] [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

"Alright," Ernie started as they exited the store. The big man was scratching his head and then sighed looking around. "Where to start..." he grumbled to himself. Mira giggled slightly and then shook her head. She loved her two bodyguards, though she would never admit to it. They kept their eyes on her and made sure she was safe. Sure, she hated being taken cared for, but she still appreciated the gesture nonetheless. Ernie nodded and then turned to Mack. "You watch Mira. And by watch, I mean take care of her. And by that I mean protect her." Mack glared at Ernie indignantly but Ernie already turned to Mira. "I am going to the security office. If I find anything, I'll call you."

Mack waved Ernie off but Mira was already walking down the mall. She didn't quite get a good look at the man, but she knew if she saw him again, she would know. Mira started for the first place if she were a thief go: the bathroom to count her spoils. Mack followed her and when he realized where she was headed, into the men's bathroom, he stopped her. "Mira. You can't go in there..." She looked down at the hand at her soldier and turned to look Mack straight in the eye. There were a thousand and one things she wanted to say to Mack, most importantly, "do you want to live today?" But she knew Mack.

And when Mack saw the rage in her, he let go quickly, sighing. "Ernie is going to kill me." She slammed open the bathroom door to a view of few guys, and old man and a teen at the urinals. She glowered and growled. Not here. She turned and left. Mack peeked inside and smiled nervously. "Sorry 'bout that, gents," he said cordially and took off after Mira, who was stalking her prey again. It was when she heard a sudden groan of pain did she find the man. A dozen yards in front of her, the man who stole her purse was on the ground at his stomach. Her purse was now in the hands of some young man.

A smile lit up on Mira's face. Now this was a man worth keeping. Daddy wanted her to get married so that he could seal his line of the D'Amato family. Not that she couldn't run it all by herself, but grandchildren were always a plus in his eyes. She walked up to him leisurely and held out her hand. "That belongs to me... Thank you." She was about to inquire on name and everything else, when mack growled at the man on the ground. He kicked the face of the man on the ground spraying blood on the ground from an obvious broken nose.

"Don't you DARE steal from Mira again. You got that? Hey Mira, you still wanna take him back to the boss or..."

He turned around to see a hand go across his face. "MAXAMILLION! HOW DARE YOU!"

He stared blankly at her. "Wh-Wha-"

'Sorry Mack. I must look my best in front of others.' "We are not gangsters on the street. We will report him to the proper authorities." She turned back to her hero and smiled. "I'm sorry about that. Mack get's a bit... ahead of himself. I am Miranna D'Amato. May I have that purse?" Mack stepped away from her muttering something about "crazy bitch". Mira's eye slightly twitched and she made a mental note to be sure to punish the man for even think those thoughts.

(OOC NOTES: D'Amato name is a pretty infamous one. Criminal gang and all so Daisuke may or may not know it.)

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

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[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Of course the man struggled a bit. But finding he was stuck on the floor was pretty quick and he seemed to panic, onlookers watching him confused. They couldn't quite understand what was going on, nor could they tell just what was holding him down. It definitely worked in Daisuke's favor. He wanted to make sure he could bring this man to the authorities. Just letting him run off wasn't his plan. And the punch to the stomach wasn't enough of a punishment to him. So he'd just have to rely on the law to take care of it. It wasn't long until he noticed a younger woman walking up to him, claiming it was hers and thanking him. He smiled, glad to be of some use today. But when he was about to reply and hand her her things, he caught sight of the brute following her kicking the man's face. And being stuck to the ground, he didn't even have a chance to dodge if he wanted. Dai's eyebrows lifted in surprise at the act, a little caught off guard. Sure the man probably deserved it but he didn't expect someone to do something like that so openly in a place like this. But he kept quiet, even when she slapped him across the face for it, casually releasing the beaten up thief from his shadows of a bind and watching him fall to the side, tired from the abuse and struggle. He didn't pay him much of a second thought, turning his attention once more back to her. He chuckled, excusing the behavior without a second thought. Sadly, he was used to stuff like that by now. He'd been in enough random fights with people on the street that fights didn't bother him as much anymore. "Of course." he began with a warm smile, handing her the purse. "I'm Daisuke. Daisuke Sakuraba. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss D'Amato." he replied, being as kind and gentlemanly as usual when addressing a lady. He did make note of her name though. He didn't remember what exactly it associated with but he knew the name from somewhere. Perhaps he happened to come across it through his studies. He wasn't too sure but passed it off for now. "I'm just glad I managed to stop him before he could get away. I would have felt bad for letting someone steal from a beautiful woman like yourself." he chuckled, shamelessly flirting. But of course, it was no lie. She was pretty attractive. He did try to tread carefully though. He still wasn't quite sure the relationship between the two. But the man who was following her didn't seem too pleased to be around her at the moment, only confusing Daisuke more. He smirked at the thought. WORDS! 466 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! I'll just have him know the name for now :] He might figure it out what exactly is behind the name later XD [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

Mira smiled as she was handed her purse and gave a small bow in thanks. She mouthed name quietly to herself. Daisuke... She shrugged. It was a cute name. She agreed to leave it at that and smiled again up at the man. It was then when the compliment dropped and her face went red with embarrassment. "B-Beautiful... quite the charmer..." she half-whispered, half-said aloud. Mira turned away, but then was interrupted by the loud ringing of her phone. She blinked and dug into her purse. She flipped it open and placed it to her ear, mouthing "I'm sorry," to Daisuke.

"Hello?"
"Missus." It was Ernie. Punctual as always.
"I found my purse."
"I can see that. The punk giving you any trouble?"
"Nononono. He helped! He got my purse."
"Oh... I see. I alerted the officers and they are on their way. Is there anything I can help you with?"
"Take Mack yourself scarce. You can tell him to go home with my shopping."
"What will you be doing then?"

She smiled and then flipped closed the phone. "Good. Security is on the way. Well, my handsome rescuer..." Mira started walking past him placing the purse strap back on her shoulder. "I know we've only just met. But I want to finish doing some shopping. Would you mind accompanying me around? I know you have to be busy, and as a reward I'll gladly pay for anything you may need." Mack stepped in between her and Daisuke.

"Mira, baby. C'mon now... You've done enough shop-" and then came the puffed up glare. Mira stared at Mack with an upmost annoyance.

"Mack. Your affection for me is quite annoying; I told you to make yourself scarce." Mack's jaw set but a vein popped out in Mira's head. "I don't want to lose my temper. If I make a scene, Daddy will hear about it. And he will want to know what the cause of it was."

Mack threw up his hands in disgust and then glared over at Daisuke. "I've got my eye on you. Make sure Mira stays safe, or I will break you." Mira shook her head as he walked down the hall away from them.

"I apologize again for all that. He thinks I am his personal maiden. Don't mind him; he's all bark." She winked and then daintily moved towards the rest of the mall. "Well? Where to? It's the least I can do for all your help today."

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

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[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke caught the blush from his compliment and couldn't help but smile at the sight. He always thought blushing was cute. And he was glad to receive such a response. It meant she really took it to heart. He simply chuckled when she called him a charmer though. "I mean it." he assured with that confident grin of his before they were both interrupted by her cell ringing. At her apology he smiled. "It's fine." he spoke, not at all worried about it. He tried not to pry on her conversation, thinking once again about what he set out here to do. He was kind of rushing to avoid any trouble but of course, that didn't turn out very well. Oh well. At least it seemed alright now. Wait... Was he being mentioned in the conversation? He diverted his eyes, he needed to learn his space. Oh well. What could he do? He'd wait until she finished, seeing what she'd do before he'd head off to take care of his errand. He wondered if he'd even find it. Well, at least now it wouldn't be a total waste coming here. He chuckled at the thought till she hung up, turning his attention back to her as she mentioned security. "That's good." he smiled, glad to see he'd be taken care of. But then she went further, beginning with a compliment towards him of her own before asking if he'd like to join her for the rest of her shopping trip, even offering to pay for whatever he needed as a reward. He smirked, about to answer whenever the man stood in between them. Well it seemed he found out some sort of reasoning behind all this. He seemed to have some sort of feelings for her. He figured it had to be something like that and simply stood there as the two argued, not sure whether he should step in or not. But finally she seemed to make a good enough threat to get him to leave and he looked over to him as he glared, not at all threatened by his words. He was much to used to threats by now. He simply smiled back, showing he wasn't intimidated. "Don't worry. I'll take care of her." he smirked slightly, perhaps coming off as a bit teasing the way he said it. He would make sure she was safe though. That was a guarantee. As soon as he walked off, he looked back over to her. "He's not the nicest guy around is he?" he pointed out jokingly as he scratched the back of his head. "It's fine, I promise. Wouldn't be the first time I've dealt with guys like him." he admitted with a smile. "But neither of you have anything to worry about. I won't let anything happen to you." he promised. "Do whatever shopping you'd like first." he smirked. "Besides, you really don't owe me. I was just glad I could help." he spoke, being completely honest. "So while the offer to pay is kind, I don't think you should trouble yourself about it." he explained. "But if you want to give me a reward, the offer to accompany you for a bit is a great enough award as it is." he chuckled. WORDS! 538 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! -- [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

Mira was a mere novice at these things. She had plenty of boys and men sweet talk her, but never had she wanted to do the reverse. Her usual comments were lame insults and the shooing of the current charmer. But Daisuke seemed complacent. Not in a, he didn't want more, way. More like... he was just happy to be in the moment. Mira envied him now, only slightly. Mira had always been told to want more, because without more, there was always someone who would take it from her. As her father said, "I can either buy a drink of water, or own the company that makes it. If I can have the latter then why do the former."

Mira grabbed Daisuke by the hand absently and pulled him along. The gesture was simply meant to bring him to her first destination, another doll shop. "I...I know it's girly and childish... But... But I like dolls. From teddy bears to action figures, I just have my own little collection." She walked inside and she felt herself began to glow with her own content. This was where she belonged... Sure, she was a bit ruthless especially when it came to negotiations on her forgeries... but here she felt nothing but wonder. She picked her way through the boxes and dolls and teddy bears. "I know it's probably not your thing... but it's what I enjoy. Please don't mind." Mira snarled at herself. When had she grown so timid?

She exited the store, a bag in hand. "I don't usually do this. Rewarding someone. People usually have to beg me to help them or something..." and her voice suddenly trailed off. 'If he finds out who I am, he'll want nothing to do with me...' a sudden piercing thought occurred to her. "I... I mean... Damn it, Miranna. Stop stuttering." She breathed in slowly and then exhaled. She felt a bit of tension release and she smiled. "So... what is it that you want? Money, a gift, some new clothes perhaps? My number?" she ended teasingly. Mira had a bit of tease in her still, and she still wanted to know Daisuke.




Mack punched another guy in the stomach but was grabbed from behind by another thug. Ernie was already on the ground out cold. The big guy usually didn't fall for anything of the sort but they had gotten a jump on them. It was rare for something like this to happen. But twenty men were there, in their black suits as usual. Mack watched a shorter man approach him as the others watched him. "Where's the girl? D'Amato family is going to have a sudden loss today." Mack spat his face but the man dodged it. "Show him how we handle idiots."

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

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[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke didn't expect the sudden contact, a brow cocking in questioning before he smirked. Hey! He wasn't going to complain. He was fine with holding her hand if she wanted. He chuckled at the thought as he followed along after her to a doll shop. Well. It definitely wasn't a place he ever saw himself entering but he did give her the option to choose where they'd go first. He didn't say anything, again, not caring too much. It was more of the surprise than anything. He was the kind of guy who could go with the flow for most things. So going into a doll shop wasn't that big of a deal. Of course if he was alone that might have been a different story. At least this way he had an excuse for being in there. He smiled as she tried to excuse herself, holding up a hand to stop her and assure her it was of course fine. "Everyone's got something they are interested in." he pointed out. "Nothing wrong with being girly and childish." he smirked. "It's kind of cute." he admitted. He figured it was perhaps the innocence about it. He always had an affection for those who acted all shy and innocent. Almost as if they were oblivious to how fucked up the world was around them. He pushed that thought aside though. He had a girl like that once and he didn't really want to think about it right now. He needed to keep his focus on his company. He obediently followed her about, looking over the dolls. He honestly never was a fan. Frankly they kind of freaked him out slightly. But he didn't let his uneasiness show about it, able to appear as calm and cool as ever even whilst in a girly shop. He was sure most of the thugs that fought him would laugh if they saw it. He shrugged at the thought. When did he ever care what they thought. He was brought back out of thought when she spoke again, laughing. "I promise, it's fine. I mean, I'm a guy who likes messing with engines in cars and everything." he explained with a smirk. Most women were never too interested in mechanics. He only was because he was raised in the home of a mechanic and always had the chance to take apart and recreate machines. "So yeah. Like I said, everyone has something they enjoy that other's might not." he chuckled, wanting her to relax. He didn't seem like that judgmental of a guy, did he? As they left the store, he listened to her speak about never really rewarding someone before. That most begged. "Consider it a bit of pride but I don't really care for begging." he admitted with a chuckle. "I find more satisfaction in getting things yourself." he continued with a shrug. "But hey, that might just be me." he smiled. It wasn't long before once again she asked him what he wanted, smirking at the last offer. "I think I could swallow my pride enough to ask for a number." he joked. "You don't have to give me anything, I told you. But a number could be cool. It'd be nice to meet you again." he spoke honestly, still not quite aware just who it was he was talking to. Not that he really cared at this point. She seemed like a pretty nice girl. WORDS! 538 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! Can't wait to see how they react to the thugs >8] *excited for some action* lol [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

Mira pouted and then folded her arms defiantly. "Daisuke, you are going to let me reward for your trouble. That's that." She turned around stubbornly and then tapped her foot. He was into cars, right? Suddenly a smile turned up in her head. Her father told her not to abuse her position as her daughter too often, and the truth was, she didn't. But she could make an exception, every one in a while right? This was worth it right? "You are into cars? Then how about a new one. My treat." Mira suddenly remembered who she was and then shook her head. "I... I mean..." she started to stutter. "I... I... My business..." She breathed in slowly and then exhaled. Don't let your emotions trip you up. That's how bad things happened.

"What I mean to say is that my business is doing well. I am a... collector. I sell valuable objects at exorbitant prices." It was mostly true. She did sell things at extremely high prices that people wanted badly. Problem was that Mira rarely had genuine valuable objects. She sold fakes, replaced them, and put the real ones up on the black market. It was a simple trade in the market, but Mira had gotten VERY good at it. Even her father was impressed by the level of intuition. "I know it seems like a lot... but it really isn't for me. I'm a rich girl... and being rich has its benefits." Mira suddenly grimaced. "I don't mean to show you up. I know... I know a lot of guys don't like girls who can pay for things..." Now she was just rambling.

Just then, her phone began to ring. "Oh!" she said, honestly surprised. She mouthed sorry again and then flipped it open. Mack. She sighed. "What is it Mack?"

"Miranna." Miranna froze.
"Who is this!?"
"A client. Who is not happy with the items you sell."

Mira's brow furrowed and then she turned away from Daisuke. "What do you want?"
"You want your little bodyguards safe? There's going to be a fire alarm. I want you on the bottom floor standing in the food court. If you don't, I will kill both of them."
"How do I know they aren't already dead?!"

"...Mira...run..." a voice weakly responded.
"Mack! ARE YOU OKAY! MACK!"
"Food court. Now."

The call dropped and Mira could only stand there staring at the floor listening to the dial tone. Stupid. Stupid stupid stupid. "Daisuke...?" She pulled out a scrap of paper from her purse and hurriedly wrote down her number. "I'm... I'm sorry... I have to go." She gave it to him without even looking at the man and hurried off to the Food Court. She couldn't have him involved. Then he would know. Then he would hate her. And Mira thought that would just be as soul crushing as it gets.

A loud alarm rang out and people began moving to the nearest exits. This was no joke. Mira nearly broke down right there. Her big outing and the first time she had a comfortable date... and it was ruined because she had sent Mack and Ernie away. Stupid Mira. Stupid. She wanted to just start crying. But at the same time, there was another pent up emotion that was no filled to the brim. Rage. And she knew what she was going to turn it on.

Mira looked around the abandoned mall towards the food court. These men had this planned out. But they had not counted on Mira being what she was. She would do it here. She didn't care; she didn't want Mack or Ernie hurt. They were bodyguards, friends, and almost brothers. Yeah, Mack thought otherwise, but Mack didn't realize that it wasn't because she didn't like Mack. It was just... she couldn't see him that way. And Ernie always played the part of the annoyed older brother. She teased and bothered him, but in the end, Ernie down deep, she knew, loved her for it. They were a family. And nothing was going to stop that.

She saw the some thirty men standing there in their suits. A much shorter one stood front and center with Ernie and Mack bound and gagged on the floor. The sight made Mira's blood boil.

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,415,bTable]

[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke smirked at the pouting. "Oh really?" he spoke questioningly in a teasing manner, obviously none too fazed by her defiance. Actually he thought it was just cute more than anything and teasing her just seemed too fun to pass up. He was glad she really wanted to get him something but he really didn't want to bother her about it. He was being honest. He was perfectly fine without a reward. He honestly didn't think he deserved one in the first place. It wasn't like he saved the world or anything. He chuckled at the thought, watching her tap her foot as she perhaps tried to find a way to convince him. What she offered certainly surprised him. Was she serious? That would be way too much for just getting her purse back! He was about to object when she began to excuse why, chuckling when she said she didn't mean to show him up and that she was rich and it was no big deal. Still, he thought it was way too much and wasn't about to accept it. He'd feel like he was taking advantage of her or something. But before he could say anything, she got a call again and Daisuke chuckled, simply nodding in agreement to her apology. He expected it to be another, somewhat normal conversation. But it wasn't long until the tone changed a bit and Daisuke couldn't help but pay attention. When the phone call ended, he knew something was up. Unfortunately, he didn't have time to ask what was wrong as she gave him her number and ran off. "Miranna!" he called out to her but she had already sped off. "Dammit..." he growled lowly to himself. Well he didn't want to pry into her business but at the same time, he had promised he'd take care of her. He never broke a promise. So with that in mind he chased after her, trying to catch her before she got into any trouble. It obviously wasn't just some argument. He heard her mentioned knowing if people were dead. Definetely not safe sounding. He would find her though. He was sure. And the fact everyone was running out while she had went deeper in meant it should be a little easier. He just hoped he'd get there in time. WORDS! 387 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! -- [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

"Well well... It's as they say. This D'Amato is a soft one." the short man chirped happily. Mira gritted her teeth but said nothing. She placed her bag on the floor and walked towards them smoothly and calm. She did not recognize him, but he seemed to know her. She noted his small stature and decided to make it a weapon. Men who were small usually also barked as loud as toy poodles. Her eyes went to Mack and Ernie. Mack seemed to have gotten the brunt of it. He was battered and covered in bruises with a swollen eye. She knew that if he had had a gun, he probably wouldn't be in this state. But no, that just wouldn't do for Mira's outings. She would have no violence during them.

Ernie, however, was not looking good. He didn't have much on him but the one thing that he did have made her worry to no end. His head seemed to be bleeding. A lot. Mira prayed that he was alright. "What do you want?" Mira asked standing a few yards away from all of them.

"Want?" the man asked, with a touch of ice in his tone. "I want you to pay. You told me that the diamonds you sell were genuine. I took it to my jeweler and he found out that you modified the gems to look like them."

Mira sighed. Of course it would have happened to her. She had suspected that her latest shipment of diamonds had been faulty. But she didn't care. She didn't like gems and all they were was money which she had plenty of. She sold them away to who knows and got them out of her hair. "If you want money. I have plenty of it. You don't need to make a sce-"

"QUIET WOMAN!" Mira froze. The short man scowled angrily at her. "Do you know why I hate women? Oh yes their comforts are exquisite but beyond they are useless. They think about nothing but themselves. And then they are pampered like royalty." And Miranna's boiling point began to rise. "Stupid women." Her eye twitched. "Should just remain like whores like they are."

"WHY. YOU. IN-"

"NOT ANOTHER WORD," the man bellowed. One of his subordinates came over and placed a shotgun to the back Mack's head. "I've heard the stories of the kind of monster you are. That's why I took a precaution. You talk or move, he dies." She looked over to Mack who shook his head. Kill them, his eyes seemed to scream.

And Mira didn't move. She couldn't do it.

"Ahhhh. Good. Now." The man walked over to her and smiled up at her. "But... you are a pretty little thing aren't you? Maybe I could keep you as a personal pet. Your father would have a fit wouldn't he?" Mira did not move. She only stared at her family with solid determination. He placed a hand on her back and slowly ran it down her figure. "Yeees... I think I will."

A single tear fell down Mira's face. It wasn't fear or hopelessness. It was canned anger. She wanted to tear the man to ribbons but she dared not move. She couldn't let them die. She wouldn't let them die.

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,415,bTable]

[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke continued to run through the mall searching for her, following the sound of yelling as he made his way closer to the scene, his shadow seeming to grow with each step as if preparing for whatever lied ahead. He knew it wasn't good and logic was telling him to just leave before he got himself hurt. But he just couldn't do it. He wasn't a selfish coward. So he'd face this head on if he had to. And sure enough, the situation seemed to call for it whenever he arrived, finding the whole group there. He definitely had no idea what he was getting into. But that didn't stop him. Anyone who knew the guy was aware of how stubborn he was and how reckless he could be. This point was to be proven at this moment, taking advantage of not being noticed yet and using his ability to transport from his own shadow to the one behind the supposed leader of the thugs. He'd be the ideal target to settle down the others. He then suddenly appeared behind him, not even giving him the chance to react to his sudden appearance as he stood there with a solid black knife at his neck, pushing it into his neck slightly to alert him to his current situation. There was one thing he really couldn't stand. And that was disrespecting a lady. And this guy was sure to find out before the day was through. "I suggest you get your hands off of her." he began, the knife made entirely of compressed darkness digging into the skin a bit. "You know, I don't appreciate the way you spoke to Miss D'Amato here." he began, his voice cool but equally threatening, sure to intimidate the obviously shocked man. He had definitely heard enough to where he himself was angered by what this asshole said. And it was never a safe thing to get him pissed. He was pretty sure everyone was wondering where the hell he came from. But to him, that wasn't important. "And I don't think you guys threatening to kill her friends is very wise either." he went further. "So I think it would be a good idea for you to call off your men before my hand slips." he continued, giving the man a bit of a taste of what he meant by cutting his throat slightly. He didn't want to kill anyone. He didn't like to. But if these guys didn't cooperate, he wasn't sure if sparing them would be much of a choice. "Oh. And please do apologize to her. I don't think what you said was very nice." he smirked, that usual playful smirk now looking more dark and evil. It was natural when he used his powers. He seemed to show a darker side of himself. And the fact he was pretty angry about the situation certainly didn't help much either. WORDS! 488 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! Sorry if this is horrible XD I kinda went overboard with the action >8U [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

As Mira struggled to contain herself, a voice she at first did not recognize perked up. She turned to the man behind her and the source of the voice to see Daisuke standing behind the man. At knife point Mira watched the man slowly turn to panic and begin to sweat. Mira's relief was so great she nearly wept. "Daisuke..." she started but then wiped her face of her tears. "Quite the gentleman. Saving a woman in distress." She turned back to Ernie and Mack. Ernie still slouched over but by his face he seemed to be regaining consciousness. Mack was looking over at his compatriot groaning, urging Ernie to wake up.

"OI! KID! LET GO OF HIM!" the one with the shotgun screamed. "Else this guy gets it." He shoved it a little harder at Mack. This finally snapped Mira's anger back into full force and then some. She turned back to the man that Daisuke had at knife point.

"Do you know why they call me a monster? Because it's almost true."
"Wha- No. I didn't mean it!" the man started pleading. "It was a joke. A joke."
"Am I laughing? DO I LOOK AMUSED?! STALKER!"

A low hum began to churn throughout the mall. Mira raised her hand and a made clawing like motion. With it a massive form fell from the shadow of the ceiling within the mall's archway and fell behind Mira. A large scythe spun and its point hit the ground cutting into the tile stone floor. The form ruffled and took shape. It was cloaked in a dark cloth, but it seemed to be a massive mannequin. The mannequin took hold of the massive scythe and brandished it lovingly and protectively around Mira. Mira smoothed the cloak a bit and then looked to Daisuke. "Have fun with him. I am going save my family." She turned away and the cloaked figure turned to the gang behind them.

"Stalker. Punish."

It leaned forward and seemed to scream but a loud, wretching hum only came. The one with the shotgun to Mack's head froze and dropped the gun. It went off but pointed at Stalker. The thing seemed to catch the bullets with its cloak and did not even flinch from the impact. Stalker at first seemed to be surprise by the attack. But then it lunged. And they screamed. The first one he got to was instantly impaled by the scythe. A few of them with enough stupidity to go after Mira got passed Stalker to get to the girl. But none of them reached. As soon as they each got within a few feet of her, Stalker vanished into a puff of smoke only to reappear behind Mira screaming. One was smacked across the floor slammed into a wall.

And throughout the chaos, Mira simply walked to Ernie and Mack. When he got to them both he undid Mack first, who, with relief, stumbled to his feet. Ernie however didn't move.

"Ernie... Ernie!"
"...missus..."

Mira looked to Mack. But his arm looked mangled. Broken obviously.

"Daisuke!" she called out. "Daisuke I need help. He's hurt bad!"

She certainly couldn't get Stalker to help. Mira was making him deal with the thugs around them. Stalker seemed more like a ghost of death than anything else.

[Daisuke Sakuraba]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,415,bTable]

[atrb=style, background-color: #222222; border-top: 5px solid #4477aa; border-bottom: 5px solid #4477aa;][STYLE=border: 4px solid #111111; height: 100px; width: 100px; margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: -33px; margin-top: 7px;][/style][STYLE=float: right; width: 277px; font-size: 50px; color: #4477aa; font-family: georgia; text-align: center; margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 123px; text-transform: lowercase; margin-top: -45px; letter-spacing: -3px;]MY SACRIFICE[/style][STYLE=background-color: #464646; border-top: 4px solid #111111; margin-right: 15px; font-family: arial narrow; letter-spacing: 2px; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: -9px; margin-left: 123px; padding: 5px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; color: #4477aa;]ABOVE ALL THE OTHERS, WE'LL FLY[/style] [STYLE=margin-right: 15px; margin-left: 15px; font-size: 10px; font-family: arial; text-align: justify; background-color: #464646; padding: 17px; color: #AEAEAE; margin-top: 8px; opacity: 0.9; border-top: 4px solid #111111; border-right: 1px dotted #111111; border-left: 1px dotted #111111;]Daisuke smiled, unfortunate to see her cry but glad there didn't seem to be any injuries. At least not to her. Unfortunately he couldn't say the same for the guys. He just hoped this would go calmly from this point. He could already feel the man tremble beneath his grip. It shouldn't be long until he gave up. He chuckled at the comment. "I try." he spoke back calmly as if they weren't in a serious situation. He looked over to the man with the shotgun as he screamed for him to let him go. He didn't seem to fazed at first. Until the threat came of course and his eyes narrowed, the shadow behind him once again stirring and losing it's defined shape, turning more into a monster as his anger began to stir as well. He definetely didn't want to kill anybody. But at the same time a part of him was beginning to rationalize that it might be the only way. But luckily he was no longer alone standing up to these people and he listened as Mira spoke. As he began to plead, he held the knife closer to his neck, threatening him to quiet down before he ended up getting himself killed. Then all of the sudden, things began to take a surprising change and before he knew it, a large form that looked like death itself arrived. Then she mentioned she would be saving her family and he looked to Stalker before nodding. She wasn't as defenseless as he thought. Another mutant it seemed. She'd be fine. But just in case, he'd keep his eye on her. But for now, it was time to take care of this guy. "Well... Looks like you fucked yourself." he spoke lowly, stopping him before he had the chance to speak. "I wont kill you, but I can't say you'll survive long if you keep this up, jackass." he chuckled, the knife slashing across his neck, leaving a nice clean cut before disappearing all together. But before the guy could remotely even do anything, his own shadows turned against him, binding him, even stretching across his mouth to keep him silenced before roughly pulling him down to the ground, the impact to the back of his head enough to knock him out. "That should do..." he spoke to himself, turning back to see the gang taken care of and Miranna freeing the men. It was then she ended up calling out to him and Daisuke was quick to make his way over, looking over the scene. "Fuck..." he muttered before kneeling down next to the man still not moving, checking out his status. He didn't look good. "We need to get him to a hospital." he spoke before tossing the man's arm over his shoulder and pulling him up, waiting for Mira's lead. WORDS! 475 TAGS! Miranna. NOTES! -- [/style]

[STYLE=width: 400px; text-align: center; font-size: 9px; color: #4477aa; letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: -4px;]made by kiwii at btn & ote![/style]

[Miranna D'Amato]

Ernie knew something was just... wrong. He could feel everything... hear everything. But he just couldn't move, or wake up. There was someone screaming at him. His eyes fluttered slightly and as he saw the face a small smile went across his lips.

"...missus..." he could barely get out. He wanted to hug the girl for being alright. They had been ambushed and the only thing he could think about was Mack and Mira. The two of them were all he had left in this world. He refused to let them go, not by a long shot. Someone was lifting him now under his shoulder. He was a big guy, but the person helping him was just as strong it felt like. His eyes darted over and grinned at the sight. It was the boy the missus had suddenly been sweet to earlier. Brave lad to come out and save her. Ernie tried to thank him but only incoherent growling came.

"A hospital!?" Mira cried in despair. Stalker was too busy to get anyone anywhere in Ernie condition. She didn't want to do the alternative but she had to. "STALKER! MY PURSE!" The mannequin disappeared in a puff of smoke, dropping the man he was dangling by the leg. Stalker reappeared where Mira had dropped it. It picked it up leisurely and leapt to her side. Draped over her, Stalker hand her her purse and went back to work, terrifying the thugs. Some of them had began gathering themselves and were firing rounds at the cloaked figure but Stalker did not even seem to notice.

Mira flipped open her phone and speed dialed the only person she knew who would take care of all this.

"Daddy!"
"Yes, princess? Are you still at the mall? There is a fire there."
"DADDY! ERNIE'S HURT!"
"Wh-What!? Calm down! Tell me what happened!"
"Daddy, men are trying to hurt me. My puppet can only do so much. Ernie's bleeding too much... help me..."

Mack walked over to the other side of Ernie and helped Daisuke carry him. "Thanks kid... dunno what we would have done." Mira flipped closed her phone and smiled.

"Daddy's coming."

Mack froze. "You... You asked him to come? But..."

"Ernie needs attention. You need it too. He was on his way to have lunch with me after my shopping. H-"

Ernie suddenly lunged for Mira pushing her to the ground. Mira cried out and opened her eyes from the impact and saw Ernie hit the ground. A bullet wound sat square against his shoulder. Mira's eyes went wide.

"...missus...should be careful..." And then he seemed to black out.

Mira turned to the commotion and saw one man with a hand gun, pointed and shaking at her. "M-Monster!"