Alexandre copied the shrug, a little chaos never hurt. That was a blatant lie and he was well aware, but it was easier to keep the nerves down this way. Those pre-battle nerves, he never really got used to the feeling of facing down one of those abominations. Nor the...<i>things</i>they created. It was anxiety he often channeled into witty remarks, hiding a seething hatred beneath a pokerface of humor and confidence. No one - not even the reaper himself - dared to call his bluff.<br/><br/>He took his place behind the wheel, making sure to stretch his limbs for maximum nimbleness. Part of him<i>really</i>wanted to go for a joy ride. Test the limits of this beast. But he'd only just arrived, and he was out of cigs. Better not get kicked out just yet. "Subs, eh? Sounds like you're familiar?" He asked, more out of curiousity than anything. "I'm familiar." He added with an enigmatic mixture of pride and resentment to his voice. So very familiar. "Just stick close to me,<i>cherie</i>. I'll pop the restraints off when we're in the hot zone,<i>ça va</i>?"<br/><br/>Although "reading" and "rules" and "health and safety" weren't his forté(s), Lowett assumed there was protocol against unleashing a Tainted partner in a civilian area, even if that area was the sub-level. If they were to go berserk, the already shaky reputation of PAGAN would take a hit. Not to mention, he'd probably get fired. But what would happen to Mishka? The knuckles of the hand holding on to the steering wheel turned white momentarily. Best not to think about it. Best not to take the chance.<br/><br/>As the engine roared to life, momentarily so did the pilot's heart. Beating almost as if to match the speed of the metal beast it's owner occupied before slowing to a crawl. Lowett smiled calmly, confidently.<br/><br/>"Thanks for the offer,<i>cherie</i>..." A sideways glance, he couldn't resist a wink. "Won't be necessary."<br/><br/>Simulations were almost as good as the real deal when it came to practise, but they could never emulate the feeling of speeding through the sky. The winds howling around the hull, the occassional burst of turbulence smoothed out by subtle steering motions. No, since the inception of humanity's self-awareness, nothing could ever emulate the feeling of conquering the sky.<br/><br/>"So, Mishka?" Not using the pet name he'd given her for once. It seemed the renegade-turned-lawbringer was serious... for once. "Anything we should know before we touch down? The little lady said there'll be Re-animators...you've got the experience here, how do you usually take them out?"