An Inspection Connection || Gupta

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 828

Tags: @egyptiangod

Notes: That name, Dee. That name. Enter however you'd like.

Alfred sighed as he flipped through his wardrobe one last time. He'd been up prepping since dawn. Alfred rarely put that much prep into his work, but this was an exception. Alfred had never really tried this sort of job out. He didn't expect too much to go wrong. At worst, he could just do a quick look-see and exit the store. He'd done enough research to thoroughly baffle his target with terms that only an engineer would even bother to learn. Alfred was good to go.

He surveyed himself in the mirror briefly. When Alfred pulled cons, it seemed a lot simpler. He knew how to act, how to be. Sure, it required research as well, but it was different. Alfred was used to playing the role of the salesman or the businessman.

This time, there was no monetary gain in it for him. It was purely for the Freedom Fighters.

It was easy enough to do if Gupta—what was the man's name again? Alfred should have this memorized by now—Muhammad...Hassan wasn't too suspicious. All Al had to be was the endearing inspector. Things should go smoothly.

...Of course, if they didn't, Alfred could also just leave.

Satisfied with his rough, blue inspector top and a pair of worn out jeans, Alfred turned to his kit. Just basic materials he might need, a few copies of the needles he'd swiped so he could make sure he was getting all the parts correct, an innocent looking hard drive, and a few other miscellaneous items Alfred figured he'd need. Unfortunately, Alfred had been unable to get one of the tracking chips to examine, but perhaps he could get one out of this trip...

Alfred attempted to smooth down his hair one more time to no avail before he headed out the door. Ah well. It was a desperate attempt anyways.

About half an hour later, Alfred stood in front of the shop he was looking for. Hassan Pets and Supplies. A simple, nice and rather ordinary pet shop. Alfred wondered how the government had convinced the owner to allow them to chip mutants. Maybe the owner didn't like mutants. Or maybe he simply needed the money. There was a time when Alfred would do almost anything for food in his stomach.

Stepping into the pet shop, Alfred once again wondered how such a beautiful, simple place could have been turned into a weapon by the government. But that was what the government and society did, didn't it? Propaganda, brainwashing...it was all encoded into their agenda.

Alfred leaned down to greet a welcoming golden retriever that wagged its tail happily for the attention. Animals were so much easier to understand than people sometimes. Dogs were loyal, always there for you, regardless of what you did. Or whales. Whales just did what they had to do. They didn't hurt people because they were selfish or because they wanted to. Animals were much better than humans.

The golden retriever licked Alfred's hand and for a moment, Alfred could imagine just staying there. Working a normal job, living a normal life, forgetting everything that happened. Feeding dogs and just enjoying life. Things would be so much simpler if he could just forget and move on like that. They would be so much happier if Alfred could just ignore what he thought was right.

If life's only goal, Alfred thought, was to find happiness, life would be so much easier.

The dog snuggled closer to Alfred and the warmth seemed to melt Alfred's resolve a little more. He hadn't had such limitless, unrestrained affection in a long time. He wanted a dog or a horse, or hell, a whale. Would it be alright if he bought this one? He shouldn't—no doubt he'd have to fill out paperwork and one could never live his life with attachments like a dog—but the idea was so tempting that Alfred actually allowed himself to consider it. He could live like this. He could give up the Freedom Fighters, the scams, the cons, and just live something normal. Where he wasn't risking his life every other day.

Or could he? Would he be able to live with himself? Alfred didn't think so.

Still, Alfred couldn't seem to stand up. All he wanted to do was kneel next to this dog, play with it, and take it home. Dogs were the perfect companion, the greatest companion. Man's best friend. Alfred sort've wanted a best friend. There was Francis, but he could never see the man as much as he would like. A dog would be able to fill the space that Alfred had filled with his work.

But he couldn't do that, could he? Just...just forget. Alfred wished he could. Things would be so much simpler.

He had only been in the shop for a few minutes, yet Alfred understood why people would be drawn to it. Because now that Alfred was here, he never wanted to leave.

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia

[Deleted]

Word Count: 1697

Tags: Alfred F. Jones

Notes: Sorry for the like 1000+ word description of his store. Gupta has no life

When opening the shop years prior to the current day it was a worry of Gupta that it would appear to be out of place among the other shops on the Russian streets. Plain white walls weren’t a style the Egyptian liked or even would be willing to consider for a shop that would share his name. When moving into the shop the walls were white creating a washed out feel to what his mind has envisioned for the shop. Pet store or not that didn’t mean the store had to be simple; luxury suited his taste better than practical styles.

What was once white walls vanished underneath a mixture of shades of gold mixed with browns and whites that created a fake texture along the walls of the main room. Upon entering the shop guests were given a view of what appeared to be aged inbus gold marble. Polished walls appeared to be cracked marble with brown highlighting the flaws upon the surface. Adding to the beauty of the walls of the shop the window frames and door frames were painted to be a cream colored marble the seemed to pair well with the dark shade of the surrounding walls. The desk that held the cash register and the shelves around the front were painted similar to the door frames continuing the lavish design throughout the store. On the side of the shelves were small carvings of animals that could only be viewed for their full detail if the shelves were only feet away. Against the back wall were small cages holding a mixture of animals ranging from birds to rodents and from rodents to reptiles. The cages were all surrounded by gold framing and decorated with objects that relate to the natural habitat of each animal. The floors were titles colored a shade or two darker than the cream color of the door frames throughout the room.

From the left of the entrance was a window and open doorway leading into the section of the shop reserved for the canines. Above the door was a small carving of Anubis, the carving was filled by a brown color highlighting it against the marble painted wall. The room was painted a blue macubus colored marble with shades of blue highlighting the cracks making the detail stand out against the pale color. As with the front room the door frames and window frames were decorated with a celeste blue marble paint job creating a rich look to the room. The large titles decorating the floor were the same shade as the door frames to keep the attention of the animals in the room but not rob the floor of the beauty present throughout the room. Half of the room had silver cages stacked two high circling around the room on the three walls. Each kennel had the floor of the cage covered with a plush blanket meant to keep the dogs from being cold. Two silver dishes sat to the left of the cage door and in the back of the large cage rested a bed sized for the breed of dog the cage held.
A four foot silver gate separated the play area from the kennels. In the play area toys of all types littered the floor along with a large celeste blue cabinet that held treats, food, and cleaning supplies for accidents. Dog beds of all sizes lined the walls for any dog the wished to nap. During the winter each of these beds were equipped with a small heater to provide warmth that might be absent when on the titled floor. In he back right corner of the play area sat a large box holding fake grass.

Like the canine room the feline room could be seen to the right from the front door of the large pet store. A simple carving of Bastet was etched into the wall above the door frame to the room, to highlight he detail it appeared to be filled with a shade of brown that highlighted flaws in the marble around the main room. Walls were painted a quetzal green marble the kept the room a little darker than what was in the canine room. As in both other rooms the door frames and window frames were painted shades lighter than the walls making them all only a few shades above white, in this room they were a ming green. Titled ming green floor covered the large room once more kept light to focus more on the cats within the room but still make the store appear to be luxurious. Mimicking the layout of the other room half the room was covered in bronze plated cages stacked two high and the other half was a large play area. A bronze gate created a divide between the cages and the play area of this room. Each of the cages for the feline room held two bronze color bowls set to the left of the door, a large litter box rested at the back of the cage. As it was with the cages for the dogs a blanket covered the bottom of the cage keeping the animals within warm. Held in the play area were countless toys that covered the floor giving humans and kittens alike a variety of choices. To the right of the gate sat a large ming green cabinet holding treats, food, kitty litter, and cleaning supplies similar to what was found in the canine room. Scratching posts and empty shelves were found around the room giving the small kittens the ability to begin to climb as they grew. On select few shelves and on the cat trees around the room a small bed was perched for the kittens. Two large litter boxes sat in the play area on in the back right corner and the other in the front left corner of the play area.

Behind the desk in the main room is a large cream-colored door that led back into a small office where he preformed small medical procedures. Keeping the theme found thin the other rooms of he store the office was a petal pink marble with pale pink marble accents and cabinets. On a desk against the right wall sat a computer equipped with a scanned used for chipping mutants and pets. In the middle of a room sat a large examining table was clearly intended for animals but was stable enough to support mutants of all sizes. Each cabinet had a keyhole keeping all the medical supplies locked away from being accessed by anyone but the owner of the shop himself. The room seemed to be cleaned daily leaving not even a speck of dust to be found on any surface.

Outside the shop the sign seemed rather ordinary lacking the careful detailing of the shop within. Hanging from the store, curled lettering spelled out Hassan Pets and Supplies against a white background. What appeared to be the only extra details were a drawing of an Anubis inspired dog and a Bastet inspired cat decorated with a gold collars along with eyes outlined in gold.

In the midst of providing serves to a customer Gupta didn’t react hearing the door open and fall shut as Alfred entered the shop. People were free to roam the shop and he believed it rude to cut someone off to welcome another. Though he didn’t turn his attention to watch where the new man went a dog who sat at attention next to his desk did. Soon the dog followed after the blonde with silent steps, stopping just outside the room to observe the actions. A simple dog appeared to be a pharaoh hound, its collar consisted of three gold bangles and it had gold outlining the eyes. The dog appeared to be a statue come to life. Not making a sound or moving to be pet like the golden retriever the dog continued to observe.

Ringing the cash register alerted the empty store that who he had been speaking to purchased what they had been looking for and no longer held his attention. Waving at the customer as they left his pale green eyes searched the shop to find where the man who entered moments ago disappeared. Noticing his dog perched outside the dog room he was sure he had found where the man sat. Silent steps fell as he moved with light feet to peer into the room. The sight that greeted him made a gentle smile come to his face. Could any cruel man play with a puppy showing such bliss?

Sometimes Gupta found himself fearing that humans and mutants would find him cruel for what he did but it was nothing he could help. He followed his government even if it meant doing something he felt possibly crossed the line of cruelty toward the mutants. The Egyptian was the only one in town with the training to be able to plant chips into living beings and it wouldn’t take much training to learn how to do this to the mutants he was presented. Never having been one to question the government he simply agreed to do as they wished, there was no sense of fighting and having the government attempt to put him in his place. This shop and the animals within were his family now; he’d do anything to assure things were easy.

Moving forward his tanned hand pushed a latch allowing the cage to open and the gold retriever sprang out knocking the inspector on his back before showering his face with kisses. Corners twisted upward forming a gentle smile on his often-stoic face. This wasn’t a scene he saw often enough, humans seemed to prefer using mutants as their pets giving little reason to have many animals through his shop. “Welcome to my shop, I am Gupta Muhammad Hassan. How may I be of assistance to you?” Extending his right hand outward toward Alfred the Egyptian no longer wore a smile but his eyes showed sincerity to his words and actions. Where the ancient looking dog once sat was now empty as the dog moved back to a bed resting next to the desk.

made by MISSO for use only by DEE

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 803

Tags: @egyptiangod

Notes: PUPPY. ;;

There was the clicking of something opening. For half a second, Alfred legitimately thought that something terrible was about to happen. Unlike what he had expected though, the creature that pounced on him attacked him with kisses. Alfred laughed as he fell over onto his back as the golden retriever started licking him all over. It seemed to like his face a lot and it tickled Alfred, who couldn't seem to keep a serious face with the dog on him. The puppy was surprisingly heavy already and Alfred once again considered the possibility of taking it home. It certainly seemed to like him well enough.

Although Alfred would have liked nothing more than to sit there all day in the pet shop, he remembered that he was here on business. Ah, if only he wasn't.

Straightening himself and desperately trying to ignore the whining, jumping puppy at his feet, Alfred dusted himself off, picking up his toolbox as he did so. Time to get back into the job. There was an odd feeling of disappointment. Alfred normally liked cons, the thrilling sensation of breaking the law. This time though, he would've given a lot not to be on one.

The owner of the shop approached him and for the first time, Alfred really got to see Gupta Hassan. An Egyptian man, his skin was tanned and very different from the pale skin that most people had around here. It was a bit refreshing, to be honest. He rather looked the part as well, with his loose, plain white robe. His pale forest green eyes stood out against his tanned skin. They looked kind enough. Gupta extended a hand in greeting.

"Welcome to my shop, I am Gupta Muhammad Hassan. How may I be of assistance to you?"

Alfred took Gupta's hand heartily. "Hey!" he said cheerfully. "I'm Alfred. I was sent here to inspect some of the chipping equipment."

Chipping equipment. Alfred hated chipping. It was like treating a mutant as a...a pet. No, maybe even worse. Still, his smile was unwavering. If he had to play his role, he would, and Alfred would play it until he'd exhausted it.

"Nice shop you have," he commented to Gupta. It was amazingly intricate and detailed, now that Alfred's attention had shifted away from the puppy he'd been playing with. It obviously showed hours and hours of hard work, something that Alfred could appreciate. He wasn't very knowledged  in Egyptian styling or art, but if it was like this, he might just have to go and check it out himself.

...Though, Alfred had to admit, it would probably be wasted on him. Alfred liked art, but he didn't exactly have the greatest appreciation for it as some people did. He'd probably go to Egypt, take a couple pictures next to the pyramids like some tourist, and ride a camel. Yup, that sounded about right. He really wasn't sure what else there was to do in Egypt. Camels and pyramids were all anyone ever talked about. Camels...Alfred frowned. He wondered if it was like riding a horse, which he'd done back in the States.

No, he had to focus on his job. Alfred usually didn't get distracted by cons. Maybe it was just the difference in the environment. Most of Alfred's cons took place in formal attire with people he simply honestly could not stand. The warm, simple atmosphere made Alfred feel at ease. Perhaps too at ease. He needed to focus.

"Would you mind taking me to the—" Alfred was cut off by the puppy yanking at his trousers, playing a game with it. It was growling a puppy growl and trying to attack it.

Even though Alfred knew that he really shouldn't, he leaned down to pick the puppy off the ground. "Oh come here, you rascal." Although at first it seemed a little disappointed that its game had been interrupted, it soon changed its mind and started licking Alfred's face again. Alfred laughed a little, cradling the puppy in his arms.

...Oh, some diversion couldn't hurt, could it? Alfred smiled as the puppy squirmed around in his arms, looking for something to play with.

"He's adorable," Alfred said, smiling. "How old is he? Does he have a name?"

Gosh, he really shouldn't be getting attached to such a cute animal. Alfred's job wasn't exactly one that allowed for attachments. At any moment, he could have to move somewhere new, to start all over again. But Alfred really just could not resist. The puppy's fur was so soft and it was so eager to greet everyone.

The retriever's rough tongue licked Alfred again and he scratched its head, looking into its warm eyes. He chuckled a little. He really did want to bring the little guy home. Unfortunately, he couldn't let himself.

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia

[Deleted]

Word Count: 967

Tags: Alfred F. Jones

Notes: Sorry this took forever. buy the puppy!

It wasn’t often that adults wondered into the shop and instantly went to one of the animals excitedly waiting to be pet. Recently he had been encountering more people who viewed the mutants, purchased during the most recent auction, as pets. Collars and leashes were often purchased and used on the mutants that often looked fearful or were dragged through the store as if they were nothing more than a stubborn dog. The sight alone always made Gupta feel uncomfortable but he didn’t have the right to stop the humans when the government approved on this treatment. Even if they were to continue seeing the mutants as lower class beings the idea of abusing them just wasn’t something that sounded appealing. How mutants were treated wasn’t a manner in which the Egyptian believed any living being should be treated. Be it a reptile, avian, or mammal each deserved happiness and not to feel fear any day caused by the humans.

Anyone who instantly found themselves playing with one of the small animals couldn’t be one of the humans that abused the humanoid creatures called mutants. Seeing what looked like an official playing with the lovable puppy made it clear they were a kind man. If not often the dogs would bark or start barking, sometimes even whimpering in fear from just feeling the presence of the human even nearing the shop.
Seeing the wagging golden retriever shower the blonde with affection was a pleasant sight after seeing mutants mistreated day after day. When he was lucky sometimes children would visit the shop and play with the different animals. It seemed to be rare that even children knew how to respect anything but the government that taught them to hurt anything that wasn’t human. It was a terrible world they were currently living in. Humans never seemed to learn from their own mistakes.

The uniform made it clear that the young blonde was an inspector but Gupta remembered that he usually was informed about inspects but the government often seemed to suddenly change their minds on if they were going to inform him of things or not. Upon inspecting the American he couldn’t determine what they were sent to check out.

His hand met with a tight grip and a hard shakes making his lips press together and his body cringed but yet his hand didn’t retreat until he felt the tight hold loosen. Even after years of living in Russia he couldn’t get used to rough handshakes. His own touches were usually gentle and tender many here didn’t seemed to act the same way. There had been more than once someone had patted him on the back making him massage his back once they were done.

“Sorry but are you sure you have the right location? Normally I receive something informing there will be an inspecting sometime soon.” It wasn’t like Gupta often had to deal with inspections, his equipment was replaced often and everything was kept sterile.

Hearing a sudden compliment Gupta’s lips twitched into a smile but the lips returned to their straighten state in a blink of an eye. The shop had been painted by his own hands giving the unique look to every surface. “I’m glad you think so. It took weeks to get the details applied.” His shop was like his second home as he had put blood, sweat, and tears into the design over the simple idea. It was as if he were having his home country complimented when anyone expressed pleasure from the sight.

Green eyes moved from the blue eyes to watch the small puppy try to gain the male’s attention once more. Backside raised in the air the puppy pulled at the pant leg before shaking its head with the fabric still clutched right between the pearly white teeth. The teeth only released to let out a quick bark and the yellow bundle hopped from side to side before latching back onto the pant leg. Giving it another moment Gupta planned to scoop up the playful runt and put them in with others to play only to see the blonde lift them once more. It seemed the puppy was content licking at the face instead of continuing the game with Alfred’s pants. Seeing the inspector didn’t show any upset over small holes caused by the small creature Gupta assumed it wasn’t too big of a deal but, never the less, he would offer to pay for the damage done.

“I believe he’s about three months, maybe a little older. He’s one of the puppies I rescued so I can only go off his size but he was the runt of the litter.” Giving a gentle look at Alfred and the yellow fluff Gupta couldn’t help but hope this lead to a home for the young creature. “Even if I would like to I try not to name the puppies, makes me grow too attached.” A month ago Gupta had come across a sickly dog with a litter of puppies curled up against here. The puppies appeared to be healthy but the mother looked as if she would collapse at any moment. He carefully brought the family to his shop and set out some food for the mother as he set to work on cleaning her puppies and make sure they were free of parasites. Returning to the room he saw the mother had passed away. It seemed she was only holding out until her puppies were safe. It didn’t take long for the other puppies to find homes but the runt now rested in Alfred’s arms, the last of the small litter. “Looks like he enjoys your company.” The small puppy seemed to quiet down and just stare up at Alfred wagging his little tall at the American.

made by MISSO for use only by DEE

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 879

Tags: Gupta

Notes: No worries! Al will have to get the puppy later... ;;

"Sorry but are you sure you have the right location? Normally I receive something informing there will be an inspecting sometime soon." Gupta seemed confused, and for good reason. Luckily, Alfred had an answer for him.

Alfred gave the man an easy wink. "Spot inspection," Alfred said breezily. "A minor change of administration...you know how it is. They all want to prove that they're worthy of their new position." It was so easy, lying.

Gupta seemed to be a reserved man, barely allowing a smile to cross his features for more than a second when Alfred complimented his shop. Whether this was due to a genuine humbleness or simply a typical reaction from the man, Alfred couldn't tell. "I’m glad you think so. It took weeks to get the details applied."

"That accounts for it!" Alfred said cheerily. It definitely seemed like something the man had put a great deal of time and effort into. He took another moment to admire the scene.

Alfred smiled as the puppy licked its nose, its tail wagging back and forth with excitement. Did this puppy always react this way to strangers or was it desperate for some affection? Either way, Alfred was happy to provide the puppy with the attention it so desperately craved. The puppy's fur was unbelievably soft—undoubtedly Gupta kept a clean, neat shop.

"I believe he’s about three months, maybe a little older. He’s one of the puppies I rescued so I can only go off his size but he was the runt of the litter." The runt of the litter, huh... The puppy settled down as Alfred thought about those words. The smallest guy, and yet he'd beaten the odds and gotten here. And he was still happy. The last one, the one left behind, but still here. Still okay. Alfred ruffled the puppy's fur and scratched him behind the ears.

"Even if I would like to I try not to name the puppies, makes me grow too attached." That made sense, Alfred supposed. He'd never be able to own a pet shop. He'd get too attached to every single creature that was ever brought through the doors. Just like he was getting way too attached to this puppy right now. It seemed to return the feelings, licking Alfred affectionately. How hadn't this puppy been bought yet? It was so lively and full of life, yet it still sat here in this shop.

"Looks like he enjoys your company." Certainly did seem so.

And you're not considering getting him at all, right Alfred?

...Shut up. He really shouldn't be playing with this puppy right now. He had business and Alfred was all too aware that he really...shouldn't...get...attached...

The puppy looked up at him, as if knowing exactly what was running through Alfred's mind. It blinked slowly, large brown eyes rounded in innocence...

...Goddamn puppy eyes.

"Well," Alfred said, gently setting the dog down on the ground, "Unfortunately, I came here for business." He couldn't quite keep the disappointed expression off of his face. He gave Gupta a half-hearted smile. "Afraid I'll have to wash my hands before inspecting your equipment...would you show me to the sink? And then it'd be great if you could show me to the equipment you've got." Already, Alfred was shifting back into business mode, as reluctant as he was to do so. He picked up the toolbox he'd brought along with him (he'd dropped in when the puppy had tackled him) and dusted off his faux-uniform.

There was a whine and Alfred saw that the puppy was demanding attention again. Alfred smiled before petting its head. "I'll come play with you afterwards, 'kay?" Again, a stupid decision—he should be trying to get out as quickly as possible—but he honestly could not have forgiven himself if he had simply walked out on the poor puppy.

He headed into the back of the shop to see the equipment, setting his toolbox on a counter where he could open it up and examine things freely.

"So, Mr. Hassan," Alfred said, addressing the man formally, shifting to a much more businesslike tone, "How long have you been chipping mutants anyways?" This was a fake inspection after all, he'd have to start playing the role properly. Alfred took out a clipboard. He'd printed the inspection sheet last night. It looked legitimate—he'd hacked into old records to retrieve the form after all. "And..." Alfred hesitated, "I'm curious. You earn a perfectly nice pet shop. Why mutant chipping?"

An innocent question, perhaps, but not for Alfred. If there was any chance that Gupta didn't actually care for aiding the government in tracking mutants...well, Alfred wasn't about to let an opportunity pass by. Having someone like Gupta on the Freedom Fighters' side could offer many benefits. Of course, it would also be directly illegal for someone like Gupta to help the Freedom Fighters but that was a minor detail.

"Oh, and I may need to take a quick glance at the records of the mutants you've inserted tracking chips into," Alfred added. "Need to make sure that all the data is being processed correctly and double check to see if there's anyone who should have been in here that hasn't yet."

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia

[Deleted]

Word Count: 897

Tags: Alfred F. Jones

Notes: Run Al Run!

Every seemed scripted and Gupta seemed to note that in the back of his mind as the sunny blonde winked at him, something about this all was off but Gupta had yet to decide what made this different. “I apologize but I do not, I own my own business here and am my own boss when it comes to my dancing too. Sorry for your strife in the work place.” The polite nature that always was Gupta had yet to fade even as he continued to decide what was off about Alfred. It wasn’t a challenge to keep up his own polite act as he tried to put pieces together.

Part of Gupta never seemed to break his quiet nature that always made people seem to feel a wall between the two. It wasn’t as though he didn’t like someone more so that he seemed to not want to upset anyone or have any words twisted. All seemed to be calculated. It wouldn’t be a surprised if someone thought Gupta was as fake as Alfred’s current act but if any felt as such they never seemed to let him know or simply just didn’t care to tell Gupta that they felt he was too reserved. Maybe if he were told he seemed reserved he would work to make his actions seem more genuine but it didn’t appear that anyone would ever mention this in his presence. Either way he felt humbled that someone would compliment his shop in the manner Alfred had, it was always a nice feeling to know someone had taken time to admire his work.

“All things you care for are worth taking time,” it was a soft reply seeming to have other meaning to it. While he didn’t seem to plan to fight for the mutants if one wished to do so they had to put the time into what mattered.

While he knew most people would demand to have the puppy pulled away Gupta was pleased to see the dog grow attached and demanding attention for someone that wasn’t him at the moment. No matter who many scratched the puppy or even at least spared him a glance the sweet creature never seemed to get enough. Always pawing at Gupta or another dog to get them to play with him.

Seeing Alfred had turned back to do his job Gupta carefully picked the puppy off the ground and cradled him close. Moving to open a gate in the room he set the small dog in with other puppies that bounced around the area. Hearing a whine he noticed the small creature trying to slip past to get to Alfred once more. Closing the gate behind him locking the puppy behind it Gupta gave a soft smile and pet them through the bars. “Behave, don’t let the others pick on you today.” Looking back toward Alfred he gestured to the side of the room where there was a sink for cases just as this where an animal left someone slobber covered. It was best that the inspector wasn’t left a mess when trying to inspect the shop but once they entered the office Gupta was going to keep a close eye on the man.

Once both washed their hands Gupta led the man toward his office where he preformed the chipping. “If my memory serves me right I have been chipping mutants for nearly two years.” The amount of time he had been doing this job wasn’t something he often thought about, as he didn’t want to dwell on it too much. “The government told me to chip them and then paid me for it. I was never really asked if I wished to perform this service just given it and did as the government told me to do.” There wasn’t much to Gupta business than being told he was to chip mutants and doing just that. The best way one could explain this was it was as if your mother asked you to clean your room but deep down you knew it wasn’t a question.

Pausing Gupta looked at Alfred and the suspicion was back in his eyes, “No, even if I allowed you to glance at my records it would be of no use and the government already knows that.” Moving to his computer and typing in a password he pulled up a file that all the words were written in Egyptian Arabic scrolling for affect he then closed the file only to then lock the computer as well.

Looking at Alfred trying to think just how to voice his concern he moved so his back was to the wall and he was able to watch the man. While he wouldn’t be able to run he also wouldn’t be able have the man lash at him from behind. “Your performance seemed rather spot on for an inspector but asking to see my files was a flaw. Who are you? I will not call the authorities as you have not stolen or done me harm but tell me why you are here.” Green eyes darkened a bit and Gupta tried to think in the back of his mind how he would get out of the room if need be. His dog wasn’t in the room and he wouldn’t risk her any harm by calling for her but he also wasn’t one to be armed at all times.

made by MISSO for use only by DEE

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 728

Tags: Gupta

Notes: *silently begs Gupta not to call the cops*

Gupta was so polite it was almost off putting in a sense. Really, almost too polite. Hopefully that would mean that things would go smoothly. But of course, things never went as smoothly as Alfred wanted them to.

His answers towards Alfred were careful and guarded. Whether this was the way Gupta normally acted, Alfred didn't know. Probably. But it could also be because the man was suspicious. Wouldn't be the first time. Alfred could wiggle himself out of a tricky situation if it really came down to it, but hopefully it wouldn't. The solution was to work fast. Work fast and get out fast.

Alright, Alfred. Let's get down to business.

Gupta worked with the puppy while Alfred concentrated on pretending to work, which was a job within itself. He scanned the perimeter carefully. There was a back door that he could use if it really came down to it, but hopefully not. A window...yeah hopefully not that either.

It was a neat and orderly place; it seemed like all of Gupta's shop was. Alfred finished washing his hands. Hopefully he'd just have to "double check" the equipment and declare it good before thanking Gupta and walking out the pet store, never to be seen again.

"If my memory serves me right I have been chipping mutants for nearly two years," Gupta said in reply to Alfred's earlier question. Alfred nodded, making a mental note. "The government told me to chip them and then paid me for it. I was never really asked if I wished to perform this service just given it and did as the government told me to do."

"Makes sense," Alfred said out loud. A moment later he wanted to take the words back...they weren't too bad though. "You don't really seem like the sort of man who'd do this...but hey. Whatever pays the bills, right?" Alfred cracked a smile at Gupta.

Ah, no. There it was. Suspicion. Alfred could see it light in Gupta's eyes. He'd known that his question had been an odd one. And he knew what was coming next.

"No, even if I allowed you to glance at my records it would be of no use and the government already knows that." Gupta typed in a password and Alfred looked at the screen behind him to see...well, ancient runes. Basically. Arabic. Which was basically one step from hieroglyphics which was basically the same as ancient runes. Shit. This was worse than encryption. Encryption Alfred could do. Translation? No way. It'd take him years.

His heart sank.

"Your performance seemed rather spot on for an inspector but asking to see my files was a flaw." Yeah, apparently. Had the government asked him to write them out that way? Was that why they had chosen Gupta instead of some other random pet shop owner? Maybe. Damn it. He hadn't planned for this. "Who are you? I will not call the authorities as you have not stolen or done me harm but tell me why you are here."

Alfred paused for a moment before answering, putting a confused look on his face. "I'm here to do my job, sir," he said, straightening a little. "I know it's not standard protocol to ask to see the files, but the boss wanted me to do a detailed inspection this time. He didn't tell me about that though." Alfred nodded in the direction of the computer. "I guess it slipped his mind. I'm sorry about that." He was indeed sorry, just maybe not about that.

"I'm sorry about the mix up and we can ignore the files for now...I'll tell my boss about it." Alfred's tone was apologetic and sincere.

"But please, sir...I...I still need to do my job." Alfred's voice was a little firmer. Still hesitant, but more determined. Maybe Gupta might be suspicious, but the situation could possibly be remedied. He just had to do everything precisely. "I'll just inspect the equipment and be on my way...sir."

Alfred couldn't afford having the authorities called in. If it came to that he would run. Run and probably go into hiding for a little while. Gupta didn't seem quite like the sort of man to call him in but there was no telling. He seemed like a law abiding citizen. And sometimes law abiding citizens were the worst.

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia

[Deleted]

Word Count: 737

Tags: Alfred F. Jones

Notes: bad Al tell the truth

Russia seemed to always have a habit of causing Gupta to face matters that he would have never come across if he had stayed back in his motherland. Back in Egypt having a pet shop would have not been possible causing him to live off his dancing and possible another simple job but he wouldn’t have any of the opportunities present in his current life. Living in another country made it difficult to read others but over time Gupta had grown used to the many differences found in the frozen land of Russia. One day he would return home to visit but he now belonged to country of Russia.

Green eyes seemed to manage to follow each and every one of Alfred’s movements as if making sure he didn’t try to run. Noting every twitch and glance of his eyes Gupta was careful to keep himself light on his feet to be able to reach any destination Alfred moved for keeping the American trapped within the room. It would be a while before he brought forth the issue and allowed the man to leave. There wasn’t much a reason to report someone that hadn’t harmed him or even stolen something from the shop. If theft had happened Gupta would already have the police searching for Alfred and his dog would be hot on the thief’s heels until the police managed to catch him. Thievery wasn’t something Gupta took lightly no matter where he lived. Everyone led a different life, Alfred’s seemed to be one that had led to crime and Gupta wasn’t one to judge him for turning to such a life if it got whatever goals he had set accomplished. All Gupta wished was that the criminal boy understood no matter how noble he believed his actions that they were against the law and would not be supported by many. Most of the criminals were freedom fighters from what he had been told. Each of them had a goal and a reason for going against the government, Gupta didn’t have such a reason and thus obeyed as a good citizen ought to. There would have to be passion for Gupta to ever do what these people did, he was against the treatment of the mutants but he wouldn't risk himself to free them when he lacked a true reason to. With his position he was able to sneak food to mutants and try to aid them in other ways but none were anything that would result in Gupta being punished or even given a fine.

Clicking his tongue Gupta showed how annoyed he was that still Alfred continued to lie when all he wished for was the truth. “It didn’t slip his mind because your boss doesn’t exist and the government officials don’t wish to have anyone access these files even to inspect they are accurate.” Closing down the computer Gupta moved toward the door making sure he was between the criminal and freedom to prevent any rash reactions.

“I didn’t know the freedom fighters were this unorganized. This is your last chance to speak the truth or the authorities will have you cuffed for trying to steal from the government. We don’t do not wish for a silly arrest so speak now or surrender yourself.” Even if Gupta appeared young his voice commanded obedience and he would not accept anything less now that he had caught Alfred in this lie that just seemed to become more muddled as he tried to twist the story to escape. Green eyes bore into Alfred giving even more warning than his words did. Alfred was to speak quickly if he didn’t wish to leave being arrested for trying to help mutants. Even if Gupta didn’t wish to have the boy arrested he wouldn’t take to having someone lie so foolishly to his face when all he wished for was to know what they were up to before he told them to remove themselves from his store if they wished to continue life as a free man.

Tapping his foot Gupta’s body language showed that even with his calm expression his temper was ticking away. “You’re not to steal my equipment. If you believe I am the enemy of mutants you are wrong as I only do what I can to aid them whenever given the chance. Stealing my equipment or copying it will not aid you in your goals.”

made by MISSO for use only by DEE

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 807

Tags: @egyptiangod

Notes: Please for the love of God don't throw him in jail.

Alfred didn't like Gupta's stare. He...really didn't like it. It sent an uncomfortable feeling up his spine, like he was being x-rayed or something. He'd been under suspicion before, but it always set him a little on edge. He tried to meet the man's gaze as much as possible, tried not to let his eyes wander to the window or the door...

Easy, Alfred, easy. Breathe. He doesn't have anything concrete against you yet. Still, the instinct to run was there. He anxiously wanted to move, to do something...anything.

Gupta clicked his tongue like he was scolding Alfred or something. "It didn't slip his mind because your boss doesn’t exist and the government officials don’t wish to have anyone access these files even to inspect they are accurate." Well then how the hell did they get anything done—shit. Gupta closed the computer and ever so casually moved to block the door from Alfred.

Alfred's mind was racing at a thousand miles a minute as he tried to plot out how he was getting out. Big companies were so much nicer...even with their bajillion security guards, there were at least a dozen escape routes, most of which Alfred would have plotted out ahead of time. Not so with a small pet shop. Alfred had gone in without a layout of the shop. More importantly though, he was here for something that was definitely atypical for a thief of any sort. Who would want to rob a pet shop?

"I didn’t know the freedom fighters were this unorganized. This is your last chance to speak the truth or the authorities will have you cuffed for trying to steal from the government. We don’t do not wish for a silly arrest so speak now or surrender yourself." The man's voice was commanding and firm and he was standing in the doorway. Shit. Ah...shit. Alfred could not end up in jail. That was not a viable option for him. Not now, not ever. Jail meant abandoning the Freedom Fighters, jail meant interrogation, jail meant being deported and sent back to the States and then...then what?

Jail meant being locked up and alone and there was no way in hell that Alfred was going to let that happen.

The FF. Alfred had to protect that. First and foremost.

Gupta tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for an answer. "You’re not to steal my equipment. If you believe I am the enemy of mutants you are wrong as I only do what I can to aid them whenever given the chance. Stealing my equipment or copying it will not aid you in your goals."

Alfred held his hands up in surrender, heart pounding. "Okay. Okay. Okay. Yeah." Alfred took a shaky breath. "Yeah, I'm not an inspector. Not even close. I...no. I'm not."

He closed his eyes and took another breath, lowering his hands a little. "I don't really want to steal your equipment...that was just a cover...I just...I needed to see the computer..." Alfred swallowed. "Look, I'm sure you're a nice guy and all and I really wouldn't want to rob you and it was just a name I was looking for, a name and an address...I just...I mean..."

He was starting to rant a little, but Alfred continued anyways. "I mean...he's my brother. And I just...I needed to know. If he was even alive. I haven't seen him in years and I really needed to know and I thought...I mean it's not even really stealing or at least not in my mind...he's all I've got."

It was really Alfred's first time admitting it, at least to someone he didn't trust with his life, because Alfred sure as hell did not trust Gupta.

Another breath, and then Alfred continued.

"I'm not part of the Freedom Fighters or whatever...they don't do anything at all except protest in the streets and I don't really care as long as my brother's okay. I'm not gonna risk my life or his for a bunch of people who can't do anything. He's my only family. I thought I could just...take a look at the computer and then go find him if he's in there. That's all I wanted. Really."

Alfred looked up at Gupta, meeting the man's green eyes for the first time in his confession. "I'm desperate. He's the only person I have left. And I...I need to know he's okay. So please don't call the cops on me." Alfred's voice shook ever so slightly. He wasn't even sure if he was just acting anymore. "Please. I'll help out in your shop or promise to stay away or write a sorry letter or do whatever you want me to...just please don't have them arrest me."

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia

[Deleted]

Word Count: 706

Tags: Alfred F. Jones

Notes: sorry I've been so slow

The nervous aura around Alfred was nearly visible to Gupta as his green eyes kept trained on Alfred. The smallest shift in his eyes or the tensing of his body wouldn’t be missed by the store owner who prided himself in being able to read bodies with little trouble. Strangers always were more interesting to him as he wasn’t aware of their mannerisms and had to study them to be able to predict thoughts or even the next move. It was common that people would look toward the door when speaking with his showing they wished to escape the awkward interaction. Gupta couldn’t blame most for not wishing to continue much of a conversation with him as he didn’t speak much even when spoken to.

Part of Gupta wondered if the government never questioned him as he seemed to be difficult to understand, or at least to most. Even if he didn’t bother writing in another language not many knew much about him so guessing his password would be near impossible. Either the government were foolishly trusting or more calculating than he once believed.

Keeping his eyes trained on the American when Gupta spoke at having them arrested he knew that his threat was enough to get to most people but it seemed to not press Alfred to answer at the speed Gupta had anticipating. Even with the small delay it wasn’t a surprise that the man began to spill forth a lot to the man he didn’t know as if he seemed to hope Gupta would forgive him once some sob story was brought to his attention. The tale made sense and yet part of Gupta wanted to stay hardened, untrusting for the young boy in hopes of getting him to give up more information without too much pressure. As long as he felt the truth was told Gupta had no reason to go back on his word. Ren didn’t need to always be involved in such situations. Having run the shop alone for a while Gupta believed he was able to handle most of it without someone attempting to give him aid.

Tapping his fingers against the wall the tanned face remained blank as it finally was admitted that this man was not an inspector as he had claimed. “Never fake to be what you are not if you don’t know how to play the part.” The harsh words were spoken with a soft voice that wasn’t as commanding.

“I do believe you wanted to find a name in my system but I do not believe you weren’t after some of the equipment. You’re not the first to want to get a hold of the ID placed in mutants but even if you were able to hack the system those do not hold a tracking device. They simply are meant to tell the police where the mutant belongs if they are ever found wandering about.” Crossing his arms over his chest the Egyptian kept his doubts apparent as he pressed to gain the truth to this entire matter. Lies, even small ones, were not accepted by the man. The government would get some bite if it were ever revealed they had lied to Gupta as well. “No, but you intended to hack my computer which is a crime. In a way you would be stealing as your plan involved taking information even if it was just to locate your brother.”

Tilting his head slightly it seemed as though Gupta was thinking what he wished to get out of this as the man gave him options. “I do need help in the shop but someone who attempted to fool me isn’t welcome to work here even if there was a letter of apology attached.” Moving forward the green eyes kept focused on the blue orbs behind the glasses. His look was meant to feel as if you were bare when around the man and he had no plans of backing down from this painful watch.

“Prove to me you deserve help and I might tell you if he is in my system. I promise nothing other than I will not report you to the authorities this time. Do not give me reason to regret this.”

made by MISSO for use only by DEE

[Alfred F. Jones]

it's a

revolution

Word count: 785

Tags: @egyptiangod

Notes: Gupta pleeeeeeease be nice

Gupta was intimidating in the most silent of ways. His green eyes moved back and forth as if scanning Alfred and reading his every move. For some reason, Gupta struck Alfred as almost ancient, even though he actually looked rather youthful.

It was difficult not to feel nervous or panicked. Alfred tried to keep his breathing steady even as his heart pounded in his chest.

He had no desire to go to jail. Of course, Alfred knew it would probably happen someday at some point, but until that day arrived he would carry on as if it would not happen. Alfred was just a thief after all (well, minus the Freedom Fighters). A thief that had gotten away with a fair amount, but just a thief nevertheless. He didn't want to be in jail with murderers and psychopaths. Not to mention... Alfred was also technically an illegal immigrant with an illegal passport. Which meant he'd probably get deported...or whatever else would happen while Russia and the U.S. bickered over what to do with him. All around it would be unpleasant and Alfred was keen to avoid that fate.

Gupta tapped his fingers against the wall as Alfred confessed. The noise bothered Alfred immensely for one reason or another. Yet the words that came out of Gupta's mouth seemed more chastising than anything, as if Alfred was a child and Gupta was scolding him. He fidgeted a little, shifting from one foot to the other. Interestingly, it seemed less like Gupta was reprimanding Alfred for attempting to steal and more like he was simply saying Alfred should have done a better job of it. Which was technically true. Alfred really should have done his research more thoroughly. Though how he was supposed to know that Gupta had all his files stored in Egyptian... Literal hieroglyphics. Well, basically. Alfred had just assumed it'd be a stereotypical password or locked file and assumptions were dangerous in his line of work.

As Gupta spoke about the chips, Alfred's face fell. Disappointment rushed through him. He'd hoped... Well, Alfred had assumed that the government was more thorough than simply tagging mutants. For once, the government had been more careless than Alfred had anticipated and it had not worked in his favor. "Oh," he murmured. So there was no way he could track down Matthew's location, only hope that he had an owner.

Gupta tilted his head slightly, considering Alfred's words. Alfred watched him carefully, praying that Gupta would give him some kind of option to not get arrested. He met Gupta's gaze as evenly as he could, though his eyes flickered downwards a few times uncertainly. Gupta never seemed to blink, just stare. It was unnerving in many ways. It was a thin line between showing regret and being composed. Gupta was already taking pity on him after all.

Gupta rejected Alfred's offer to help in the shop immediately. "Yeah, that would make sense," Alfred said. What else could he have done though? Alfred didn't have much to give. He had money, but Alfred got the feeling that Gupta would look down on Alfred for bribery of any kind. Gupta seemed like the kind of upstanding guy who always followed the rules and was extremely concerned about morality. Though then again, he hadn't called the cops yet.

Alfred perked up slightly when Gupta mentioned that he might tell Alfred if his brother was in the system. His heart leaped. He'd thought that everything had been lost and gone for good, yet this man was giving him a chance to find Matthew once and for all. Maybe. But in Alfred's mind, there was little doubt that that computer held the key to all of his hopes and dreams.

"I..."

How did one prove that they were deserving of help? Alfred could tell Gupta all about his life story and how he'd been searching for Matthew, but Alfred doubted it'd do much.

He had to try though, he had to...Matthew. It'd been five years. What if that became ten, then twenty? What if his brother was dead?

"I don't know." Alfred's eyes flickered away from Gupta's briefly. "It's...just, he's my brother and it's been five years and if he's dead..." Alfred's voice faltered. "I don't know if I deserve help, necessarily, but I need it. And I'd do anything to find him again, I..." Alfred swallowed. "Please. I've screwed up and made a lot of mistakes but my brother...he's a good guy. He's always been. And I know you don't want me working here and that makes sense because I wouldn't want me working here either but I'd really do just about anything you ask, just...please."

i suppose

by Worldie for Leia