1371/Parkour Time!

Parkour Time!
Date of Scene:	25 April 2020
Location:	Chinatown - Founder's Island
Synopsis:	Parkour and Dumplings
Cast of Characters:	Carrie Kelley, Henry McCoy

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Carrie Kelley has posed:
The time and place was set, and Carrie had waited for Hank to show up as he'd said he would. She's already waiting with jogging pants on, sneakers, and a t-shirt that she had tied around her waist to give it some extra tightness to ensure it didn't end up catching on anything while she was running. She's currently crouched retying her sneakers and making sure the trialing ends weren't hanging while waiting for him at the corner of Bleakman and 5th in Gotham. It was a good place to start for a run and she had an end location in mind to make it suitable as well.

Henry McCoy has posed:
No sneakers for the Beast. He's got on a loose fitting t-shirt, cargo shorts, and a smile. He grins to the woman, meeting her at the arranged spot. "Carrie... hey!" The man waves as he comes nearer. "How are you doing?" He asks, stopping a bit away so he can stretch his legs before the run. He looks a bit tired, but he's no longer sporting a bandage.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley stands again with a grin as Hank approaches giving him a welcoming nod. "I'm doing all right," she admits with a bright smile even though she looks a little tired herself. Reaching back she gives her ponytail a bit more of a tug to ensure it's not going to slip loose either. "We had some trouble here the other day that we can chat about after. I've got a good spot for us to wrap things up at that I think you might like." She pauses before considering, "You like Chinese?"

Henry McCoy has posed:
He cants his head, still stretching. "Trouble? Hopefully everyting is all right?" He comments, but then the subject is left to lay until after. A grin. "You have a finish point? Excellent - and yes, I am a fan of most Asian cuisine." Hank beams. "Where are we starting from, here?"

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley smiles faintly. "We had our own outbreak of individuals changing into gorillas and dinosaurs," she explains simply. "It hit mid-town yesterday afternoon. A number of people were affected." She pauses here to glance up toward one of the nearby buildings. The buildings here were suitably close enough that it wasn't a huge danger to be parkouring around, but also still of sturdy construction. "The alley over there, up over the roof, and then there's some interesting duct work before the next," she explains the route in general. "Pretty straight forward. There's some stairs at one point and... Ah, well you'll see. It's a course I've run a few times because there's this great little dumpling house at the end in a alley."

Henry McCoy has posed:
Hank chuckles at that description of the route, nodding. "Seems like these changes are happening all over the place. Wish I could find a source, so we could forewarn and protect people." He says, stretching one last time. "I supppose I'll follow the leader, then?" Even so, his eyes are going to the route that's visible, his face a grin of anticipation.

A glance to her, and a nod. "How often do you get out to run? I am sure your family gives you no end of 'be careful' speeches?" He guesses.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley gives a rather warm laugh at the mention of her family telling her to be careful along with a nod. "It depends which one, really. The oldest, Dick, he was originally from an acrobat family so I think he kind of understands the urge to just be energetic and have fun sometimes. Usually I run around the manor which isn't quite as much fun," she admits. "The city? Maybe a couple times a month depending on the weather."

As she talks she stretches one arm to the side catching and holding it in the crook of her opposite elbow, and then repeats the process the other direction. Satisfied with that little stretch she gives a nod to Hank along with a grin. "Okay. Let's go!" With that she lopes off into a run toward the alley she had pointed out.

There's no stopping when she gets to the wall. Instead she runs up it three steps before rebounding to the other wall. Back and forth she jumps upward completely ignoring the fire escape that was in the alley in the process. One final jump and she throws her arms forward tucking herself into a roll to come up onto the roof itself almost immediately springing back to her feet out of the roll.

Henry McCoy has posed:
The Beast nods. "Running the same ground can get a bit predicable - finding new paths is the fun part, in my opinion." He works over his legs, lifting one foot behind him and reaching back to stretch it as he does. The same process is repeated for the other leg. All nice and limber, he grins. "Unless of course, you re-arrange things at the manor." A wink.

True to his word, he's playing follow the leader. He chases after her, loping along easily. Four ambidexterous appendages really helps - especially with the gorilla-esque feet he has! Bouncing between the walls like a well-hurled superball, he lands atop the rooftop after a flip, following her in motion.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley glances behind her just long enough to make sure that he was doing all right. Of course she somehow had a guess that he would. It still earns a grin as she continues on running to the far end of the roof just to leap off into what appears to be open air. The next roof over is lower, so a flip mid-air brings her down landing on her feet easily with knees bending just enough to absorb impact without losing her speed.

The path she leads him through continues in a similar manner for awhile until they've crossed several city blocks. Enough distance for the familiar brick buildings to begin to change into the more heavily adorned sort that Chinatown in Gotham posessed. It was a little trickier here with clay shingled rooftops, but the utility poles that are tightly packed together help aid in that as well.

Finally though she comes back down to ground level resting her hand against a wall while sucking in several quick breaths. She wasn't totally winded, but going from full tilt running to stopping was always a bit jarring.

"Okay. End of the line for now," she assures with a laugh as she turns to lean her back to the wall to finish catching her breath.

Henry McCoy has posed:
There's a constant grin on Hank's face - he's clearly in his element. He used to get the adrenaline when playing football - now, after being outted, he's moved up to more exciting and risky maneuvers. He doesn't move to show off, but his body demands the extra panache. He never surpasses her, letting her lead the path - happy to allow her the honor. It is clear he trusts her, following over the blind jump with a look of glee on his face.

As they make it towards the more Asian flared buildings, he makes various comments regarding the architecture and how it always seemed more peaceful to him. Odd conversation for the pair vaulting and hopping from rooftop to telephone poles. Still, he's enjoying the conversation - even if it ends up being one-way.

Once they reach ground level, he's not showing any sign of windedness - mutant genes were good to him in that aspect. "That was fantastic. I enjoyed not knowing the path." A nod of enthusiasm. "End of the line..." His peers around. "I think I can smell the food..." A wry grin.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley offers a response here or there to his comments as they go but overall she was focused on the path it seemed. Or maybe she wasn't as good as keeping at a talking level while exerting herself. She was just human after all, even if she was apparently in decent enough shape for someone that was considered 'upper crust' thanks to her adoption. Here though she's grinning quite obviously enjoying herself and there's a little flush of color on her face from the run.

"Yep! It's a bit rustic to warn you," she offers as she pushes away from the wall and gestures down the alleyway they were in. Here the alleys weren't just the back doors of businesses, but cut through from one side of the street to the other. Packed in as much as it was, it was clear that those who lived here made use of every inch of space they could get from laundry lines to signs in windows offering services or other things. A good amount was in Chinese though.

At the end of the alley she turns directly to the building next to her and the entrance there. It was just a red door with a single window that displayed chickens strung up in the window. The only sign said 'Hot Dumplings'.

"This place has the best soup dumplings you will ever have in your life," she explains as she opens it and steps inside, keeping the door open for him to pass through as well. The shop itself smells of spice and food. It's a bit weather worn with old wood booths and tables, and toward the back there seems to be some older men set up playing around a Mahjong table placing bets. They all look up when the pair enter, but apparently Carrie was recognized and they go back to their game.

The old woman by the counter at the door looks their way as well. It's here Carrie pauses to greet her in Mandarin, gesturing between herself and Hank, and then pointing toward a table that she was apparently familiar with. The old woman responds waving them through.

Henry McCoy has posed:
There's no judgement from the man, other than his elation that he found someone as interested in the runs as he was. "You picked a wonderful route, Carrie. Thank you. It was exhilirating." The Beast assures, grinning from ear-to-ear. He carefully picked his way through with her, careful to not jostle or disturb anyone. He was a visitor here, and one who didn't want to cause a scene!

His eyes would wander, though - taking in the sights of the packed alley. "Do you know if this is Mandarin? Cantonese?" He motions to the varying signs. "I haven't brushed up on Chinese dialects, yet. Japanese was one of the first Asiatic languages I learned." A slight grin.

Once inside with Carrie, he breathes in the aromas. It's clear he approves, his stomach giving a little rumble of impatience. Those who look to him get a polite bow of his head in return, along with a smile. "These are the best places - authentic. No chains, no coporate hand in them - just honest people making what they love." He motions to the table they'd been directed to, grining. "After you!"

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley chuckles as she heads to the table to plop down into it with a sigh of relaxation at getting off her feet from that run. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. I don't really get to do that with people often, though I did find a trainer once that liked to at least run in the city. He's a boxer mainly though." A small shake of her head is given. "Primarily this area is Mandarin though there's another subset that is used in the take-out Chinese shops. I was told what it was called once but forgot." A little shrug is offered toward him. "I only know a bit of Mandarin from this place. I used to come quite often when I was younger so I started learning a bit. I can do basic conversations at least."

"So, how are things going with you lately? I know you mentioned you were working on the whole dinosaur change thing," she inquires conversationally while reaching out to grab one of the menus that were rather poorly translated. There weren't even any pictures.

Henry McCoy has posed:
Hank is quite cautious when sitting - he's got mass and he's not wanting to damage furniture. Once settled, he takes up one of the menus. Seeing no pictures, he doesn't bother with his reading glasses. "I was wondering..." A wry grin. "You seemed to have a good grasp of the phrases you used, no doubt." The man nods. "Did you have a favorite here? I'm up for being adventurous and letting you order." A motion to the menus. "I can't read this in any case." There's a warm chuckle from the man.
As the subject turns to dinos, he nods. "I think I am close at the dinosaur issue, at least with a possible solution. As for the gorillas, I hadn't even started on that." A slight frown. "So many balls to keep in the air when juggling scientific endeavors." A shake of his head. "I am sure my friends, and any sany doctor, would tell me to get more rest. I just don't feel I can do that with so much at stake."

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley nods in apparent understanding with that. "Yeah, when people are in need it's kind of hard to justify taking more time to yourself. Hopefully this will at least offer you a bit of a mental break. And thank you for joining me today as well. It was rather fun." Her gaze skims over the menu only breifly before setting it aside again.

"Oh, I've got tons of favorites. Definitely the pork soup dumplings... Unless you've some dietary restrictions?" She hazards realizing she didn't konw if that was the case or not. "They have Ma Po Tofu as well that's authentic. If you can do spice. But I do highly recommend the dumplings."

Henry McCoy has posed:
There's a moment of thought, before he answers. "Both. I think both will be good for me." A chuckle - he's got a metabolism to keep up with! Hank relaxes a bit in the seat, secure that it's not going to collapse under him. "No restrictions, per say. I do have my preferences, but I imagine we all have those." A nod.

The menu is placed back where he got it, his fingers lacing together after that. "I appreciate the reprise from the situation." Henry offers over, warmly. "Hopefully it's a bit of a break for you, as well?"

Carrie Kelley has posed:
The decision for both earns a broad grin, and she looks over toward the woman at the counter. Apparently this wasn't the sort of place where you really dealt with waiters or waitresses coming over for your food. The order is placed in Mandarin as she was familiar enough with how to do that, and then she leans her elbows on the table in a casual sort of slouch with one hand resting on her fist.

"It's definitely nice to get out. I'm done with classes but I've been taking on more work at the Wayne Foundation. There's a lot to learn there. Researching charities to find out which ones are legitimate and worth investing in, seeking alternative measures, and of course trying to find those who are willing to donate as well. There's already a large fund through the Wayne name itself, but it's not infinite." A half shrug is given. "I'm actually looking at attempting to raise awareness among the populace as to which charities are worthwhile so whether they donate to the Foundation or not, at least they're ensuring what they donate actually goes to what it's supposed to."

Henry McCoy has posed:
With the food ordered, he looks quite pleased. Henry grins over to her, listening as she describes her own busy schedules. "So, I think I missed it, but you are in class for what major?" He asks, stretching his leg out to the side, under the table. No way to trip anyone, or cause a scene.

"Wading through the mire of hokey charities - I do not envy you. It must get a bit depressing, seeing people trying to put up a front of goodwill, only to be conning people on the backend." He chuckles. "I wonder if Mr. Wayne and Mr. Stark should pool their resources and tackle some of the various problems in the world." A smile.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
"It's not the most pleasant thing to do. I've always enjoyed researching things a bit though. Makes me feel like some kind of detective," Carrie puts forth as she chuckles quietly. Ducking her head forward a moment she hesitates on answering about her major. "I'm afraid I turned out to be one of those rich kids who tried to 'find themselves' during college. I started with business administration and finance because of Wayne Enterprises, but I quickly realized I'm not really suited to that sort of environment. I like a bit more of an active role in things, and besides, my brothers have that end covered well enough." Her hands spread out in a shrug.

"I took several information technologies courses, a few public relations and marketing, and finally ... I actually was working on a psychology degree."

"There's so many instances of mental health problems in Gotham. Arkham Asylum sees more breakouts than releasing people they've helped. It was while I was looking into that, that I realized it's not the psychologists fault, so much as the administration. The root of the problem wasn't being addressed. That's why I began to get involved with the Wayne Foundation."

"If we can help to educate and offer assitance to lower income families and those at risk, there's a far better chance of ensuring that we can help those with issues instead of them feeling there's no choice but to turn to a life of crime."

Henry McCoy has posed:
A nod to her as she mentions the detective work. "I can be kind of thrilling, I suppose. Chasing after the bad ones." A smile, little does he know! "Nothing to be afraid of. At least you recognize you want college. That's a far better start than some others." A grin. "Some people with the means, ignore education as a waste of time. The fact that you want to learn, speaks volumes to people."

"Psychology? Quite a tricky subject, did you enjoy it?" He asks, before listening to the plight of the mental health issues in Gotham. "Administration is always a concern in any health field. Too many corners cut, too many dollars saved in lieu of lives." The doctor shakes his head. "It's a shame. Kudos to you for getting involved in the solution." Hank smiles to her. "Perhaps one day, as a society, we'll move past the collection of wealth and instead look to the betterment of lives globally."

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley grins warmly at that particular sentiment. "That would be great. It's something worth working toward." As for psychology... "It was a fascinating subject, but there's so many differing opinions on the topic as well."

Before she can go much further into it, perhaps thankfully, the meal comes. A bamboo steamer basket is set on the the table between them, along with a small pot of rice, and a very large plate of Ma Po Tofu. Individual plates are given as well as chopsticks, soup spoons for the dumplings, and forks as well. Just in case.

"Ah, perfect. I'm starving after that run!"

Henry McCoy has posed:
He was listening to her, not minding the passing of the time - quite enjoying the conversation! And then the food arrives, and Henry's eyes get a bit wide. "Oh dear." He chuckles, picking up a pair of chopsticks. He rubs them together out of habit, grinning to her. "I'd forgotten how hungry I was." The man teases, draping the napkin over his lap.

"That is one of the best things about science - there are always so many varied opinions. It's how we continually challenge our understanding of the world." A nod, motioning for her to help herself first.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley plucks up her own chopsticks doing something similar to rub off the little bits of loose bamboo. It's the spoon she goes for first though. The top of the steamer basket is removed displaying at least a dozen delicately wrapped dumplings. One is taken up with her chopsticks and dropped into the spoon to snip a little part of the pouch open letting the broth flood the spoon. "Usually best to go for these first, unless you don't want a chance to taste them," she points out with a chuckle. "Oh, and naturally it's hot. VERY hot."

That doesn't stop her from bringing the spoon up to slurp the broth and then pop the entire thing in her mouth with an inward whistle of air drawn to cool it down in the process. It was one of those pains that tasted so good after all!

Henry McCoy has posed:
He was not shy about grabbing some for himself. He spit it relatively evenly, allowing half for her and half for him. The dumplings are plucked up with the chopsticks, placed on his plate. "I imagine so, with the steam." A wink to Carrie, the doctor getting some of the rice and the Ma Po Tofu as well.

He blows carefully on one of the dumpling, before popping into his mouth. The traditiona blessing of "Hashsahshahsha" is repeated as he tries to cool the hot dumpling in his mouth.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley reaches for her water after the dumpling is gulped down to cool her scalded tongue with a quick gulp. "Hoo. Yeah the steam does it, but it's so worth it." Grinning at his own attempts to eat it she turns her attention to scooping her own load of rice and Ma Po. At least that is allowed to cool a little on the plate as she opts for another dummpling. This one though is also allowed to cool a smidge more.

"Good so far I hope? Actually I know it is, but it's always nice to hear other people's opinions on this place, too." A grin is flashed and she takes another sip of water. "Anywhere good in New York that you're aware of? I really don't get out in that area too often. I should."

Henry McCoy has posed:
Scalded tongue be damned! Hank works through the molten dumpling, giving a purr of approval after the fact. "It is delicious, though I will wait a bit to try the next one." A deep laugh. "This place is wonderful, for the dumplings alone. I am sure the other dishes will be just as excellent." He nods.

"Plenty of great places in New York, aside from the obvious. Getting into the cultural neighborhoods is a fantastic way to enjoy all the city has to offer. A treaure trove for gourmets." He explains. "I'd be glad to show you to a few places, if you are ever in town again?"

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley seems to consider that a moment with a slow nod of thought. It did make sense to go to the cultural areas, after all. Still she can't help but smile. "I'd like that. I do enjoy trying new things food-wise. Even if this is good old comfort food to me." A waggle of the Ma Po Tofu is indicated as to which she means. Soup dumplings were a newer thing for her but one she definitely liked.

"I suppose I should let you get back to work after this. I've stolen so much of your time today already."

Henry McCoy has posed:
Hank looks pleased at punch as she admits to interest in the food tour of the Big Apple. He nods, trying a bit of the Ma Po and rice. A mmm of satisfaction, not minding the spicy heat at all. "I try most things, though if I don't favor them I tend to not revisit." A smirk.

As she mentions taking up his time, he foot-scuffs. "I don't mind at all. I enjoy speaking with you, Carrie - as well as running." He assures.

Carrie Kelley has posed:
Carrie Kelley takes a testing poke at her second dumpling with her chopsticks before scooping up some of the Ma Po herself. A little lick ensures none of that mouth numbing spice gets past her lips as she indulges in the spicy dish. She does at least take up her napkin to dab her mouth after before risking speaking again. Just in case. "Well then. I guess if it's not a bother I'll have to take you up on that offer of visiting New York soon."