"Is it just me or are jobs fallin’ off trees around here?"

Shen Jiutai looks to Xiao Li, “Buy ya a drink?” she asks.

Xiao Li Marshall: You even have to ask?

Rae Overholt: Wore a coat this time.

Shen: Damn! I need a drink!

Xiao Li Marshall: Don’t we all...

Rae Overholt: Why do I have a feeling this wont go well? What am I supposed to report back to that guy Locum anyway? We went to Paquin and sat in a bar? I don’t understand why he wants our whereabouts anyhow.

Shen: Well, we did tell him we are here, didn’t we?

Rae Overholt: Yeah, but that can’t be all.

Shen: We’re on retainer! He’s paying our bills, we work for him.

Rae Overholt: He basically wants a copy of our logs then? Yeah, that retainer’s going to get us killed. And I’ll never be able to dress comfortable again.

Xiao Li Marshall snorts. “Try wearin’ long sleeves for *twelve years,* Cap’n.”

Gabriel Keats stands behind one of the short pillars, listens quietly. Fidgets in place.

Shen: Gabe, why are you standing there acting funny?

Rae Overholt: “Gabe?” She spins, looking.

Gabriel Keats realizes that he is *not* as good at covert operations as he should be. Curses under his breath in Mandarin.

Rae Overholt curses right along with him, Xiao Li’s comment completely out of her mind.

A large and well dressed man, with the obvious bulges of concealed weapons, enters the room and starts a conversation with a shady character at the end of the bar, who points at our heros. The man crosses the crowded room and approaches Rae, “Are you the Captain of the cargo ship Raven?”

Xiao Li Marshall eyes the man warily.

Rae Overholt spares him half a glance as she is still glaring at Gabe, “Yeah, that’d be me.”

Gabriel Keats looks at the door, then hears the man and steps back. Nothing to see here. Just a wandering performer. His hand stays at his hip.

Bodyguard: “My employer would like to have a chat with you, follow me, please.”

Roland Josephus ignores most of the talk, and turns back to the bar, nodding to the bartender, and pushing his glass forward.

Rae Overholt looks at him, “Who’s your employer?”

The stranger says nothing more, but leads Rae to the scene outside the Paquin Grand Opera House, where the crowd is milling after a performance, slowly drifting towards the End of Season’s Ball across the street.

Shen: I better follow Cap’n, Rol? Guys?

Gabriel Keats: “I’d take it as a kindness if you did. . .” He sounds exceedingly sheepish.

Xiao Li Marshall: Mm?

Roland Josephus looks over to Shen, “Figure if they wanted us dead.. they’d have done it before now. Sounds like Cap’n business.”

Shen: “I think she may needs some back up.” Shen hurries after the Cap’n.

Roland Josephus shrugs, and turns his attention back to his drink.

Xiao Li: ...what the hell, Gabe?

Gabriel Keats looks at Xiao Li. Looks at Roland. Says, simply, “Wei.”

Roland Josephus glances from the pilot to man and back.

Gabriel Keats: “Ta ma de, I’m still wearin’. . .” He takes off the stupid mask, shoves it in a pocket.

Xiao Li Marshall raises an eyebrow. “Nice disguise, Zorro.”

Roland Josephus empties his glass and sets it back on the bar.

Gabriel Keats: “Wasn’t a disguise. Was a statement of fashion. I was buskin’; can’t do if you look like every other guy out there. ‘sides, I figured there was less chance Rae’d shoot me if she didn’t recognize me.”

Xiao Li Marshall: Then you oughta, I dunno, get a haircut or something?

Roland Josephus just shakes his head, and reaches across the bar for a bottle.

Gabriel Keats: “laotian ye, y’think there’s a decent barber anywhere ‘round these parts? Say the closest one’s three planets away.” He coughs. “Also, I didn’t think of it.”

Xiao Li Marshall chuckles and shakes her head. “You’re *really* bad at this, y’know that?”

Gabriel Keats: “Weren’t like I was tryin’ that hard t’hide. That what’s goin’ out there’. . .that ain’t somethin’ I want to know about, is it?”

Xiao Li Marshall: How the tian xiao de should I know?

Rae Overholt stomps up to the bar and glares.

Xiao Li Marshall: Trouble, Cap’n?

Shen Jiutai stumbles forward, “Now I really need that drink!!!”

Rae Overholt: More threats, I”m getting used to it by now.

Roland Josephus looks up from the bar, and over to the Captain without saying anything.

Rae Overholt glances back at him, “Yeah?”

Roland Josephus shrugs, and turns his attention back to the bar, and his drink.

Gabriel Keats blinks. He’s taken off the mask and put his glasses back on. “Threats?” He looks at Shen, at the floor, pretty much everywhere except directly at Rae.”

Rae Overholt: One praised us and one threatened us. Neither would I care to have as my friends.

Gabriel Keats: “hm.” He doesn’t elaborate further.

Rae Overholt: Miss Small and Wallace themselves are here. And Shen’s old flame Jenna. Oh and Locum, who figures we don’t fit in with the fancies.

Xiao Li Marshall: “Please tell me we’re at least--” Xiao Li stops abruptly, going pale. “Wallace is *here*?!”

Rae Overholt: Yeah, so you don’t leave this bar.

Xiao Li Marshall: Fine by me.

Shen: “It sounded like we own you fair and square now Xiao Li, we did pay Niska for you...” She diverts her eyes, “I didn’t mean...”

Gabriel Keats blinks.

Roland Josephus glances over to Shen, and back to the pilot, “Meanin you ain’t an escapee anymore.....”

Xiao Li Marshall: Only technic’ly th’ deed of ownership still belongs to that hun dan Wallace. I wasn’t bought from *him.*

Shen: Yeah, I guess Niska paid him for Fan, afterall... so we own her... for what that’s worth

Xiao Li Marshall rolls her eyes. “Lucky me.”

Shen Jiutai walks up to the bar, and knocks back a shot, thinking of Jenna...

Rae Overholt glares at Shen, “Stop it. We got bigger problems.”

Roland Josephus pauses before he empties his glass and turns it upside down on the bar. He lights the end of a cigarette, and turns around to lean back against the bar.

Gabriel Keats: “How big?” He looks directly at Rae.

Rae Overholt: “Soon as this shindig is over, we’re out of here. Course...How big what?” She asks him with an icy tone.

Gabriel Keats: “‘re the problems?”

Rae Overholt: Not that it matters to you, but big. Dragons setting up shop in Washtown big, Jadi aligning with every crook this side of the core big and using us for her dirty work big.

Dominance Paine walks in, glances at the bar, and walks over, placing His back to a short pillar, eyeing the crew in silence for a moment, sizing them up individually

Rae Overholt spots the stranger and quiets , crossing her arms and waiting for more trouble to start.

Gabriel Keats: “The Dragons?” His eyebrows raise above his glasses. “I’d say that matters just a mite. . .” He trails off as she quiets.

Dominance Paine chuckles softly. “Well, well, well. If it isn’t the crew of the Raven. I might have work, if you are interested...”

Rae Overholt: Well if you know our name you know what we can do. What work do you have?

Shen Jiutai pushes her empty glass away and turns to watch the stranger.

Dominance Paine smiles, His eyes glinting softly. “I know only your reputations... I have three... employees... which I need transferred to a small planet on the outer rim..”

Rae Overholt: What can you tell me about these employees and who might you be?

Roland Josephus: “Passengers... Oh goody.” He turns back to the bar, and flips his glass over, nodding to the bartender.

Xiao Li Marshall stares levelly at Paine.

Dominance Paine smiles. “Me? Merely a businessman. These three employees of Mine are rather... shall we say, delicate. I am offering 750 cred, for a simple transport. No questions...”

Gabriel Keats crosses his arms and watches them talk.

Rae Overholt: Delicate as in sick with plague? Or as in sensitive to sunlight and must be kept out of everyone’s view.

Xiao Li Marshall: Seems like every “no questions” job we take ends with a lot of people wantin’ to question *us*.

Dominance Paine chuckles softly. “Certainly no. They are, in truth, rather lovely. But I would ask that they arrive without so much as a blemish upon their beautiful skin...”

Gabriel Keats: “Oh. . .” He murmurs to himself, and his jaw sets a little.

Rae Overholt: We’re not so much into slaving.

Dominance Paine chuckles softly. “Whoever said anything about slaving...? These are... employees... Not Companions, per se, but under My care, nonetheless...”

Rae Overholt: They under your care by their choice?

Dominance Paine smiles, leveling His gaze towards the woman. “For 750 cred, does it matter...?”

Xiao Li Marshall: YES.

Rae Overholt turns her back on him and looks at each of her crew.

Shen Jiutai shakes her head slightly.

Gabriel Keats: “Apparently he ain’t heard enough about our reputation.” He murmurs this under his breath, loud enough for only Xiao Li to hear.

Roland Josephus: Mister... If’n they’s slaves... These gals here will set them free.. If they are slaves.. and ain’t goin’ willin’.. You’d be best to find you another transport...

Dominance Paine ponders the crew for a moment, at last looking at the Raven’s Captain, His smile gentle, His eyes cold. “Take it or leave it. If you refuse the offer, I am sure there are other ships who need the creds...”

Rae Overholt: ‘Fraid we’re going to have to refuse. I’m sure you’ll find another ship.

Dominance Paine shrugs. “Fair enough, Captain. Shake on it? I have to say, your reputation holds true...”

Rae Overholt: Shake on it? We ain’t made no deal.

Dominance Paine: This is true. Still, no harm in it, and besides, I have heard about you and your crew. Honorable, and all...

Rae Overholt: “Alright.” She approaches him with her hand held out.

Xiao Li Marshall: Cap’n? I wouldn’t--

Rae Overholt looks back to Xiao Li. “I figure you all can drop him cold if he tries anything.”

Shen Jiutai nods to herself.

Gabriel Keats hand is already at his hip.

Dominance Paine smiles, offering his hand, clasping hers gently, firmly, taking advantage of her distraction to discreetly slip something into her pocket. With a firm shake, he at last opens His hand, releasing hers. “One hell of a rep you have there, Cap’n...”

Rae Overholt: “I’ll have to take your word for it.” She releases his hand after a firm shake and steps back, turning to Dione, the Bartender.

Xiao Li Marshall frowns. She could have sworn she saw something there...

Dominance Paine: Well, you can’t blame me for trying. I’ll be on my way then...

Rae Overholt nods at him and turns back to the crew.

Gabriel Keats gives him a long, piercing look

A few shady characters and dancing girls drift in and out of the bar.

Rez Gray: c’mere!

Roshelle Gustafson: hahaha Ohh baby

Rez Gray: ‘Allo all! Hey Di, can I get a whiskey and a beer for my astrogator here?

Dominance Paine raises his hands slowly, chuckling softly, as he walks slowly out of the bar.

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Captain Overholt. I am Morganna Wynnitfrye. I am the regional director of a “Business Consortium”. We have a need for some reliable, and discrete transportation.

Rae Overholt: SCUSE ME?

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Mr Tenens informed us that you would be able to transport some discrete cargo to Beaumonde. We are in no hurry, anytime in the next month is fine.

Dione Bingyi nods to rez, “Comin’ right up.”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: If you reach Beaumonde, without any “Allied” entanglements, our brothers and sisters there will probably pay you a 200 credit “tip,” for your “good service”. All we ask is that you not ask any questions, Dong Ma?

Roland Josephus: Is it just me or are jobs fallin’ off trees around here?

Shen: Why haven’t we come to Paquin before?

Xiao Li Marshall mutters to Rae, “Thinkin’ maybe we should try an’ change our ‘reputation,’ given the kind o’ clientele we’ve been attractin’....”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: I wouldn’t know, but I find Mr. Tenenes to be reliable if pliable.

Rae Overholt wonders suddenly why jobs are falling out of the black on them. “Maybe so pilot. Is the cargo living?”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: The cargo is three crates that I shall have delivered to the spaceport first thing tomorrow morning.

Xiao Li Marshall: Oh, an’ check yer coat pocket.

Roland Josephus turns back to the bar, “Just once I want a job that they say.... Ask all the questions you want.”

Gabriel Keats: “Those jobs don’t pay so well.”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: It is not living, and that is all you ned to know about it.

Dione Bingyi pops the top off a cold bottle of beer for Rez, and pours a shot of whiskey placing it on the bar. “There you go.”

Rez Gray: woot!

Rae Overholt: “Alright. Guess we dont have an option on this job,” she mumbles almost inaudibly. “Guess we’ll take it.”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Shiny. My associates will deliver it to your hold, sealed, in the morning.

Rae Overholt reaches into her pocket and blinks. “Fine.”

Xiao Li Marshall gets up to go drink in a different corner. Getting too crowded hereabouts.

Morganna Wynnitfrye: “We’ll be awaiting it’s arrival on Beaumonde. I thank you Captain.” She nods stiffly.

Shiro Takaaki: Evenin’ Folks

Rae Overholt: Evening.

Shiro Takaaki: Couldn’t help but overhear you might be looking to take on some work.

Rae Overholt: Seems we got some. What might you be needin’?

Shiro Takaaki: I’m looking for someone trustworthy who can handle a job I need to bail on. There isn’t any pay upfront, but there should be a big payoff when the job is done.

Rae Overholt: We supposed to trust your word on that?

Shiro Takaaki: Fair enough I suppose. My ship is in a bit of a pickle, and I need to take another job that can provide me with money right away. Word is that Raven will do the right thing, even if you’re kinda clumsy about it.

Rae Overholt: “We’re not clumsy!” She looks rather annoyed at this statement. “I’d say we’re right graceful under the circumstances.”

Roland Josephus: Well... Kevin.....

Shiro Takaaki: Well, rumors is rumors.

Gabriel Keats: “Ai ya. . .”

Rae Overholt: Yeah Kevin... but I ain’t Kevin. You’re askin’ for us to take on a pretty risky venture there fella. What was the deal you took?

Shiro Takaaki: This one apparently needs to be very :discrete:, so let’s try not to screw this one up. An old and trusted friend of mine is transporting a passenger carrying a valuable cargo, if you can, I’d like to entrust the final leg of the trip to Raven.

Rae Overholt: What do you get out of it?

Shiro Takaaki: Its a favor for an old friend. I save face and you make some scratch. It really is an easy job, just pick up this girl, and take her to Newhall, :quietly:.

Gabriel Keats: “Least objectionable offer we’ve had tonight...”

Rae Overholt: I can’t make a decision like that without my crews vote, you might be taking food out of their mouth to do it. What was the final pay out to be?

Shiro Takaaki: Well, since its ‘quiet transport’ I think 60 creds per day ought to be fair.

Rae Overholt looks to Shen, “What’s that bring us up to Shen if we take it? Will we break even?” She motions to Xiao Li.

Shen: That will help alot, Newhall is about 10 days out right now...

Rae Overholt: You folks object we do this?

Shen: Sounds legit to me, Cap.

Rae Overholt reaches into her pocket and then holds her hand out to Xiao Li, something hidden in it and waiting for her to take it. “Alright, we’ll take your cargo.”

Xiao Li Marshall plucks the ‘something’ out of her hand, tucking it inside her glove.

Shiro Takaaki: An old war buddy of mine, Captain Xavier Pendragon Able, a good man, flying Ophelia is supposed to meet me in the asteroid belt near Paquin at 2300 hours on the 30th, the coordinates are: X1138, Y1701, and Z2001. I will send him a wave to let him know the change of plan.

Rae Overholt: “Captain Xavier Pendragon Able eh?’ She gives Xiao li a ‘look’. “Right kind of you.”

Xiao Li Marshall nods knowingly back at Rae.

Rae Overholt: Get those coords Pilot?

Shiro Takaaki: Much obliged for you takin’ this job for me and saving me face in his eyes.

Rae Overholt: Good luck with your troubles.

Xiao Li Marshall: X1138, Y1701, Z2001. Got it.

Shiro Takaaki: Ok, take care o’ her Cap’n and I hope we can do business again.

Rae Overholt: Well, we going to be able to eat steak tonight Shen?

Shen: We could, but I’d like to actually see the creds in the account, still... things are looking good, why not? Steak it is!

Gabriel Keats quietly, “Got an extra seat, or. . .”

Shana Meads looks more than a bit flustered and rumpled as she makes a beeline for the bar.

Rae Overholt walks up to Gabe, stares him square in the eye and aims a left hook at his jaw.

Gabriel Keats takes the blow, staggering backwards a couple of steps.

Roland Josephus blinks in a bit in surprise, and shakes his head, “Pa always said.. Son.. if’n you’re gonna be stupid... Expect pain.” He looks over to Shana a moment, and lifts his glass to drink.

Gabriel Keats doesn’t look like he wasn’t expecting this. “An apology would be a gross understatement, wouldn’t it?”

Shana Meads gasps out to the bartender- Did she just -run- here? Flushed face, out of breath... “R-rum!”

Rae Overholt glances at Shana, “Run? What’s goin on?”

Roland Josephus shakes his head, ‘Rum.. Cap’n.. She’s thirsty...”

Rae Overholt: Oh.

Shana Meads shakes her head, stammering. “Nonono- rum! Need rum. Hands... everywhere.” She looks a bit in shock.

Xiao Li Marshall blinks and pulls up her goggles to look at the girl.

Rae Overholt turns back to Gabe, “I’ll deal with you later. ” ::turning back to Shana she asks:: “Hands everywhere? What you talking about woman?”

Roland Josephus nods over to Dione, “Rum.. better make it a double.”

Dione Bingyi: Comin’ right up. She puts a double shot glass on the bar and pours in a two fingers of Rum.

Shana Meads makes a vague gesture in the direction of the other party in town tonight. “Some, some-” She shakes her head- And hey, booze! Grab, chug, gasp.

Rae Overholt raises an eyebrow and then shrugs. “Alright. Nevermind then.”

Dione Bingyi glances up at Roland and slides the shot his way. “There ya go.”

Anastasia Christensen smiles as she walks in the door with Deacon, “I bet this place knows how to serve a drink.”

Roland Josephus nods to Dione, and picks up the glass handing it to Shana, “Here.. When you get done with that other one.… Now what’s got you all out of breath?”

Dione Bingyi looks up at Roland, and smiles...“Thank you for the tip.”

Shana Meads seems to calm down after draining half of it in one go- Then most of that promptly decorates Roland’s shirt as she does a spit-take. “Her!” Of course, her face flushes bright red as she stares at Ana.

Deacon Korhonen: “Well, I’ll let you two continue your evening. Thanks again for the dance, Ms. Christensen.”

Anastasia Christensen looks over towards the bar as she wraps her arm around Deacon’s, “Why don’t you get me something nice and -stiff-”

Roland Josephus just shakes his head, “Good waste of booze....” He looks over to Ana without comment.

Rae Overholt glances at Roland, glad she wasn’t standing there. “What? she try to wrangle you into working for her brothel?”

Roland Josephus looks over to the Captain, and shrugs.

Shana Meads shoots Deacon a ‘PleaseNo!’ look, followed by a rapid shaking of her head- Which Rae’s comment stops cold. “Bro-what?” She’s wearing a perfect ‘duh’ expression.

Deacon Korhonen: *with a wry grin* “Ms. Meads, I sure hope you’ve got on comfortable shoes. You might need to move pretty quick later.”

Rae Overholt shrugs, not unaccustomed to brothels herself what with being a dock rat and all.

Dione Bingyi looks over to Shen...“Thank you for the tip!”

Anastasia Christensen laughs as she looks at the end of the bar and the woman sitting on it, “Have no fear Miss Shana. I don’t mean it in a rude way but you are not brothel material.” She tilts her head a bit, “Though with a little work.... hmmmm”

Shen Jiutai nods and sets her empty glass in front of the tarbender.

Dione Bingyi: What’ll ya have?

Deacon Korhonen: “Well, folks, enjoy your evening. My boat should be good to go now, and I’ve got to run hard burn to get back to Persephone. Gotta keep a tight rein on my employees, or they’ll steal me blind.”

Shen Jiutai looks Dione in the eye, “anything that ain’t that Blue Sun Grain piss!”

Rae Overholt: “Who works for you?” She looks to Deacon at the mention of Persephone.

Dione Bingyi nods and reaches for the bottle of Wiskey.

Deacon Korhonen: “Oh, and barkeep...” another grin. “A drink for Ms. Meads’ friend here.”

Dione Bingyi nods at Deacon, “comin’ up sir”

Anastasia Christensen chuckles, “I’d like a wine please... and if you don’t have a good wine just give me whiskey.”

Shen: Make mine whiskey too.

Dione Bingyi smiles at Deacon, “Thank you for the tip.”

Shana Meads finishes off her drink in another long chug, and shakes her head. “Nono, notatall- Sittingataconsole’sfine-” Then the blush spreads as the Predatory Ana gets labeled her friend. Ack!

Dione Bingyi: two whiskeys and a wine comin’ up.

Deacon Korhonen: ‘Nite, all. good to see you. we’ll have to do this again.

Dione Bingyi sets two shot glasses on the bar and pours two shots of Whiskey for the ladies. She slides them down the bar. She picks out a wine Glass and uncorks a bottle...Pouring the deep dark liquid into the glass.

Anastasia Christensen reaches down the bar for her glass and swigs it down in one quick motion.

Shana Meads reflexively throws back the new drink, too, though this one shuts her up for a bit and leaves her looking a bit fish-like. Stronger than she’s used to!

Dione Bingyi refills Ms. Christensens Glass and slides it back.

Roland Josephus listens quietly looking to each as they speak.

Anastasia Christensen puts her empty glass down on the bar and smiles at Shana, “So I see you found a place you were a bit more comfortable at?”

Shana Meads: “Well, it was-” She claps her hands to her mouth as the words tumble on out unbidden. Whoops!

Xiao Li Marshall sits back in a corner, nursing a strong drink.

Rae Overholt: So, think thats all of them? The job offers I mean?

Shen: God, I hope so...

Rae Overholt: “Guess we head out tomorrow then. I think I need to have a few private minutes with someone if the excitement is over.” She nods at Dione and turns to level a cold stare at Gabe.

Shen: Well, did Li Mei say how many days she was booked for? When is that Rendezvous?

Gabriel Keats returns the stare, though, as his glasses are dark, it’s impossible to say what his expression is behind them

Anastasia Christensen chuckles, “Why Miss Shana, are you saying I make you uncomfortable? Why I am the most harmless person in this joint.”

Rae Overholt: Well then, guess I wasn’t thinking. Looks like we’re here a week or so. Hope you can all entertain yourselves without going destitute.

Xiao Li Marshall: ...and, what, I’m s’posed to stay here in the bar all week to keep off the radar?

Rae Overholt: Nope, you got some work to do on a few projects.

Gabriel Keats says something in Mandarin like, “as though you’d be that lucky.”

Shana Meads shakes her head, then nods, then shakes her head again. Her left hand is groping for -something- at her hip, that, apparently, isn’t there. She stares down at it, her face a mask of comic dismay.

Shen Jiutai stands, rather unsteadly, “I’m goin’ back and crash, anyone else goin’ to the spaceport?”

Gabriel Keats: “Don’t think so.”

Xiao Li Marshall: I’ll come with ya, Shen. Gettin’ too crowded in here for my tastes.

Anastasia Christensen laughs at the woman,“Well believe me you have nothing to worry about with me.”

Rae Overholt stalks past Gabe knowing he’ll follow.

Gabriel Keats does. So whipped

Shen Jiutai saunters over to Xiao Li, nods, and gestures to the door, then follows her out into the night.

Shana Meads pointedly crosses her arms over her chest. “I’m not all certain ‘bout that...” And what was probably -supposed- to be under her breath follows. “Where’s the gorram Marines when you -need- them?”

Anastasia Christensen laughs as she drinks the last sip of her drink, “She places the empty glass on the bar.” She stands up from her stool, “Not thanks needed.” She smiles at Shana as she turns to leave.

Shana Meads starts to slide off her stool- But when Ana does, she re-settles herself, watching the woman with an ‘I’m on to you’ expression. Flustered, she pays out probably well more than her tab. Oh well!

Dione Bingyi nods and glances over at Shana “Thank you so much for the tip”

Roshelle Gustafson smiles at Shauna “Thank you hun, your a doll”

“You are refreshingly different, Mr. Burnside. I like that in a man.”

Deacon Korhonen: evenin, folks.

Locum Tenens: Deacon!

Li Mei: Certainly, Mr. Burnside'

Elise Capalini helps herself to a glass of champagne, certain that will make the shindig smoother.

Tuo Li Burnside fusses with his tie and sash, nervous.

Li Mei looks around the ball room, "Oh .. this is very nice."

Rohan Wallace looks around, smiling. He ponders stepping outside, for some fresh air

Tuo Li Burnside: uh, i've never engaged a Companion before...

Li Mei looks at Tuo Li and smiles, "You look quite dashing tonight, Mr. Burnside."

Tuo Li Burnside blushes. "Thank you."

Li Mei: Treat me like you would any lady accompanying you to a dance.

Elise Capalini: Miss Mei, who made your lovely gown?

Tuo Li Burnside's face drains of color.

Rohan Wallace smiles, seeing the local law enforcement, content that security is as tight as it could be for tonight's event.

Li Mei smiles at Elise, "The gown was made by Miss Nicky Ree"

Tuo Li Burnside leans in to Li's ear. "Um, I've never done that either."

Elise Capalini smiles and takes notes.

Li Mei grins as she rolls her eyes just a little and whispers back, "Well then, just be yourself ."

Tuo Li Burnside whispers, "That's why Mother wanted me to hire a Companion. So I wouldn't be myself. But I'll do my best."

Cimorene Ronmark sighs at her boss. She likes him just the way he is.

Li Mei chuckles, "Your mother sounds like a wise woman ... just do your best and you'll be fine."

Tuo Li Burnside: Shall I get you some champagne?

Li Mei: Yes, I would love some champagne, Mr. Burnside.

Tuo Li Burnside: I'll be right back.

Li Mei examines her nails, appearing slightly bored

Tuo Li Burnside: “Here you are.” He hands Li Mei the glass

Li Mei takes the glass from Tuo Li and smiles, raising the glass in a toast, "To new friends."

Tuo Li Burnside smiles, a little less nervous. "To new friends."

Rohan Wallace nods, seeing his "associates” gather close to him, nodding to the six discreetly well-armed men in silence.

Elise Capalini: Mr. Sands, is it? Can I get you something to drink?

Tuo Li Burnside: I was actually surprised you accepted the offer for tonight, Ms. Mei.

CoolLuke Sands: I am good Ms. Capalini. I thank you kindly for the offer.

Li Mei: Oh? And why is that, Mr. Burnside?

Tuo Li Burnside: Well, Paquin isn't exactly Londinium.

Elise Capalini hears the word Londinium and glances at the man with the companion.

Tuo Li Burnside: We don't see too many Companions out this way.

Li Mei grins, "Well ... I haven't been to Londinium in a long time, I'm afraid."

CoolLuke Sands: I am new around these parts and word came around that this was the place to be and be seen.

Li Mei: I prefer life out here to the core these days.

Tuo Li Burnside: Really?

Elise Capalini nods at Mr. Sands. "They've called it the event of the season....I guess we'll see."

CoolLuke Sands: So do you frequent these social events Ms Capalini?

Li Mei nods, "Yes ... is that so surprising?"

Elise Capalini nods and smiles. "That's what a social editor does. I work for Cortex News."

Rohan Wallace smiles, glancing along the street. idly glancing at the time...

CoolLuke Sands: No. I am just making small talk.… just being polite so we can get to know each other.

Tuo Li Burnside: Well, the core is so rich. You have so many options there. I’ve had to do all my studies via Cortex. I could do research in the great libraries if I was on Londinium or Shinon.

Li Mei shrugs a little, hesitating before replying, “The options available to me in Londinium do not appeal to me these days.”

CoolLuke Sands: I just moved here about a week ago.

Elise Capalini looks at the cut of his suit. “You seem to be doing well for yourself.”

Tuo Li Burnside frowns a little. “I’m sorry to hear that, Ms. Mei.”

Li Mei nods, “You would love Sihnon, I’m sure. It is my home world.”

CoolLuke Sands: Well I do alright. I am a writer. I am well to do enough that I make my own way as I please.

Tuo Li Burnside gets a dreamy look in his eyes. “What’s it like there?”

Rohan Wallace nods slowly, a single time, to one of the men standing nearby, adjusting His tie once again.

CoolLuke Sands: I decided to move out here to the edge to experience humanity stripped down to its barest.

Deacon Korhonen: “Evenin, partner. Name’s Deacon, and I run Persephone Cargo over at the docks.”

Li Mei smiles, “It’s quite beautiful there. And very ... busy. Balls like this one happen nearly every week.”

Elise Capalini laughs. “Indeed...you’ll find that in abundance.”

Rohan Wallace smiles, nodding to the man. “Good evening. Rohan Wallace. Mine owner...”

CoolLuke Sands: I have secured some land in the Washtown area. Delightful little community. Some very interesting and … unique...characters that live there.

Elise Capalini can’t help but smile. “Washtown is my home as well, Mr. Sands.”

Tuo Li Burnside: “This is actually my first ball.”

Shana Meads meanders upstairs to lean against the railing. “Waooow...” A look over at the nearest other person, and she chirps up. “You know, I was almost expecting a floating chandelier, but it doesn’t really look like it’s needed!”

Sanpierre Juran looks around glumly. “No, it certainly doesn’t. It would be out of place with these dreary artificial floors.”

Deacon Korhonen: “Good evening, Mr. Burnside. How are you tonight?”

Rohan Wallace: Well, good evening, Miss Small.

CoolLuke Sands: They should provide me with...insight I guess is the word.… for the various walks of society that live out here

Li Mei: Your first? Well, there is nothing quite like your first time.

CoolLuke Sands: I mean no disrespect Ms Capalini. If I didn’t have the greatest admiration and affection for the place I would not have moved there.

Jenna Kasei enters and looks around the room, neither underly nor overly awed by the room. She’s the sort who feels at home at such events. She heads outside for a breath of fresh air.

Elise Capalini shakes her head. “None taken; it is a fine place for all manner of observations.”

Tuo Li Burnside: Is there anything in particular I should do?

Sanpierre Juran looks down at Mr. Sands. “If you’re so fond of the place, why’d you feel it necessary to pour snow on it rather than leaving it in its natural state?”

CoolLuke Sands: I moved in across the street from that general store on the edge of town....I forget its name. They have all those chickens running about the place.

Li Mei smiles at Tuo Li, “Well, if the music ever begins, a dance would be a perfect beginning.”

Cimorene Ronmark tries to start the dancing anyway!

Elise Capalini: The Big Red Button....a treasure trove, yes...

Sanpierre Juran sees Ms. Ronmark seeking a dance partner, and jumps in immediately.

Shana Meads, snubbed, makes a face at the retreating man’s back. “Nnnyeh!” Then a shrug, and a shoulder roll, and it’s back to wandering!

CoolLuke Sands: The work crews had a devil of a time getting the house setup. Luckily it was a pre-fab and was up in a day. So what career did fate lead you to in Washtown Ms Capalini?

Tuo Li Burnside: Can I ask you what brought you to the rim, Ms. Mei?

Li Mei smiles up at Tuo Li, “Shall we dance then, Mr. Burnside? I’ll tell you all about it while we dance.”

Tuo Li Burnside smiles. “Sure.”

Elise Capalini tilts her head at Mr. Sands. “I became a reporter, quite by accident, I assure you. But it’s a life that has treated me kindly.”

Deacon Korhonen: “Ms. Miles. How nice to see you again.”

Cimorene Ronmark smiles as she and Sanpierre glide gracefully across the dance floor.

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Good evening Deacon.

CoolLuke Sands: Ah. Another writer. No wonder we came together hear. The fates are wondrous with coincidences aren’t they?

Sanpierre Juran smiles back, lucky to be dancing with his favorite woman in the room.

Li Mei chukles, “Oh you are a wondefull dancer Mr. Burnside. Very light on your feet.”

Tuo Li Burnside: Mother paid for the best teachers they had out here.

Li Mei: It shows.

Elise Capalini helps herself to another drink and nods at Mr. Sands.

Li Mei: Perhaps I will teach you a few other things before our time together is done.

CoolLuke Sands: I have considered opening a business here. Perhaps a small publishing house maybe. I could go back to the law but am tired of that part of my life.

Shana Meads -sighs- as most all the others have paired up. “Ai ya...” So! She helps hold up the wall.

Elise Capalini raises an eyebrow. “You were a lawman?”

Tuo Li Burnside: So why did you come to the rim, Ms. Mei? If I can ask.

CoolLuke Sands: Ha. No. I was a lawyer for the law firm of Wolfram an...er...a law firm back on the home world....but that is behind me now and they say never look back but ahead.

Li Mei hesitates a monent before answering, “Well ... suffice it to say that it became better for me to be away from the core.”

Elise Capalini’s eyes narrow. “Wolfram and Hart, could it be?”

Deacon Korhonen: “Dearest, if they’ll let a worn out old pilot like me in, they’ll admit anyone.”

CoolLuke Sands briefly turns pale but quickly recomposes himself, “I see you have heard of them.”

Tuo Li Burnside: Well, I’m glad you came out here.

Elise Capalini snorts delicately. “They have a long reach, Mr. Sands, and an even longer reputation.”

Cimorene Ronmark appreciates the fact that the music is all waltz-friendly!

CoolLuke Sands: Yes, I did work with them for a brief time but we had a .... falling out of sorts. Luckily for us both we parted on...agreeable and mutually acceptable terms.

Elise Capalini nods. “Could have been nasty otherwise.”

CoolLuke Sands: But as I said, that is behind me and I have had a very successful 10 years as a writer.

Li Mei smiles at Tuo Li, “I’m glad I accepted your offer as well, Mr. Burnside. So tell me, what is it that you do here?”

Tuo Li Burnside: I study, mostly.

Li Mei nods, “And what do you study?”

Tuo Li Burnside: My family was one of the first on this world. They managed to get wealthy on land sales. A little bit of everything. Haven’t decided what to do yet.

CoolLuke Sands: I have heard they have inquired about opening a branch office out here on the rim, but fortunately all it is is rumor

Elise Capalini looks at Mr. Sands. “Have you considered a career in journalism, or is your craft strictly one of fictions? Not that journalism isn’t often fiction...” She clears her throat.

A voice drifts in from outside:
Jenna Kasei: "So, these folks have crossed you as well. Is there somebody in the system they haven't cheated or robbed yet?"

Li Mei seems distracted, but soon returns her attention to her escort, “And what is it that you want to do?”

Tuo Li Burnside: Study. I’m happiest when I’m with my books. Which is a bit of a disappointment to my family. Is something wrong?

Li Mei smiles as she shakes her head, “No, I’m fine ... I apologize, my attention was drawn away to the lovely decoration here.”

Tuo Li Burnside could have sworn she was looking away from the decorations and at the door. “All right then.”

Li Mei: You should not worry too much about disappointing your family ... if you are a success in something you enjoy doing, they will come around in time.

Morganna Wynnitfrye: So, Mr. Tenens. I understand you may have a lead on transport for my employer's cargo?

CoolLuke Sands: I have always felt that all good stories have a touch of fiction to excite the reader...as long as the general facts are true.

Tuo Li Burnside: I hope so. They were hoping I’d join the mining company as an executive.

CoolLuke Sands: I have thought of journalism, but as my frustrated Editor could tell you, I am horrible with deadlines.

Shana Meads looks a touch lost and self-conscious as she comes back in, with a look back outside and a shake of her head.

Elise Capalini smiles at Mr. Sands. “Yes, my boss is a sticker for deadlines.”

Locum Tenens: Hello miss Wynnitfrye. pleased to make your acquaintance.

Li Mei seems a bit taken aback at Tuo Li’s last comment, “A mining company? That does not seem to suit you.”

Tuo Li Burnside: I agree. But when your family owns a good chuck of a world, you at least get a seat at the table.

CoolLuke Sands: Most Bosses usually are. Thats why I enjoy being my own Boss. My Boss tells me to get up in the morning, I tell him to go to hell until after 9:00 AM. It is a very good working relationship.

Elise Capalini laughs at Mr. Sands. “I wish I could work for that one; he sounds like my kind of boss.”

A small group reenters the ballroom.
Rohan Wallace: Miss Small, the lovely Operatic, Miss Jenna Kasei. Miss Kasei, My associate, Miss Small...

Amelia Small: Oh no need to worry about me at all. I think I am able to see to myself just fine. I bet I can find a nice Alliance officer to spin me around the floor.

Rohan Wallace chuckles softly.

Jenna Kasei bows slightly to Miss Small. “It’s a pleasure.”

Morganna Wynnitfrye nods, “Mr. Tenens, you are known to my employers. and therefore to me as well..”

Locum Tenens: As I should be

Morganna Wynnitfrye: I understand you may know of someone with the capacity we require to deliver our materials to Beaumonde?

CoolLuke Sands chuckles, “Well ‘WE’ sometime get up for a morning constitutional to catch the sunrises. Nothing like watching 2 suns rising together.”

Rohan Wallace nods to one of the men nearby. “Ladies, do forgive Me. Miss Kasei, Miss Small here can help arrange transport to the Colony. Miss Small, I hope to catch up with you later...”

Jenna Kasei: Good evening, Mister Wallace. And good evening to you, Miss Small. I’m going to retire early tonight as well.

Rohan Wallace takes Jenna’s hand, and gently turns it, palm up, and lightly kisses the inside of her wrist. “The pleasure was Mine, I assure you...”

Amelia Small smiles at Jenna, “It is a pleasure to meet you.” She turns to nod to Wallace, “I am sure we will be meeting again soon.”

Rohan Wallace: I look forward to it, Miss Small...

Tuo Li Burnside: Do you have many clients out here?

Li Mei smiles, “At the moment, you are the only client that is important to me.”

Tuo Li Burnside blushes.

Li Mei laughs, “I do believe I can teach you a few things you mother is unable to.”

Tuo Li Burnside turns bright red. “Oh. Uh... shiny.” He get very sweaty palms.

CoolLuke Sands: I apologize. Where are my manners. Ms Capalini, would you care to dance with me?

Elise Capalini: that would be nice, Mr. Sands.

CoolLuke Sands: I would not be a gentlemen to allow someone as beautiful as your self become a wallflower as I babble on about writing.

Li Mei smiles, “You are refreshingly different, Mr. Burnside. I like that in a man.”

Elise Capalini: You dance quite well, Mr. Sands. Are you schooled in such things?

Locum Tenens: would you like to dance Miss Morgana?

Morganna Wynnitfrye: “Why not, Mr Tenens,” She offers her arm.

CoolLuke Sands: I have had lessons growing up as a child. Seasonal cotillions and all.

Locum Tenens takes her arm.

Elise Capalini nods. “Well they paid off.”

Tuo Li Burnside stutters a little. “I-I-I haven’t done much in that area I think you’re talking about, Ms. Mei.”

Locum Tenens: oh my!

CoolLuke Sands: Well thank you kindly Ms. Capalini. I fear I have not danced with a woman of your.… breeding and elegance in quite some time.

Anastasia Christensen walks in and looks around, “It looks a bit like this party is a little short on men.”

CoolLuke Sands: If I step on your toes I apologize profusely ahead of time

Li Mei grins, “You let me worry about that, Mr. Burnside. Let’s just enjoy the music and each other’s company for now.”

Shana Meads -sighs-, propping up the wall. “Tell me about it,” she adds to the complaint. And mutters something about ‘paid -how- much for this invite’ under her breath.

CoolLuke Sands: So where do you originally come from Ms Capalini?

Tuo Li Burnside wipes the sweat from his forehead.

Anastasia Christensen turns to look at the woman by the wall, “Well you know we could give these folks a show and dance together, miss.”

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Well, Mr Tenens, if you’ll excuse me, business awaits.

Elise Capalini wonders how much she should tell him. “Londinium,” is all she says, with a small frown.

Morganna Wynnitfrye: Thank you for the dance.

Locum Tenens: “The pleasure was all mine m’ lady.” He bows

Morganna Wynnitfrye curtseys.

CoolLuke Sands: I passed through there a few years back. I was only there on a layover for a few hours. There was a nice park next to the spaceport...… Churros cart there too if I remember right.

Elise Capalini laughs, having no memory of such a cart, but nodding anyhow. “I remember the parks...”

Shana Meads looks a bit taken aback at the offer. “Well, umm-” Blink, cough. She looks around. Then smiles weakly back. “Well, it beats just standing around.”

Li Mei looks into Tuo Li’s eyes and smiles, “This is lovely music, isn’t it?”

Tuo Li Burnside looks away nervously. “Uh, yes.”

Locum Tenens: Ah yes, the classics of Earth That Was.

Anastasia Christensen walks over towards the girl and takes her by the hand. She leads her out into the dance floor, “I promise not to step on your toes. I have plenty of... uh practice.”

Li Mei chuckles at Tuo Li’s bashfulness, “How about another glass of champagne, Mr. Burnside?”

CoolLuke Sands: I have not heard this song since I was a child.

Tuo Li Burnside: That sounds like a great idea. I’ll get get it.

Elise Capalini shakes her head; “I don’t think I’ve ever heard this song.”

Tuo Li Burnside runs off to the champagne fountain.

Li Mei laughs at Tuo Li’s eagerness

CoolLuke Sands: An old historical recording if I remember right. The Chuck Brown Singers.… or some such nonsense.

Shana Meads looks a bit nervous, but covers it up with a wry smile. “So, ah- What’s your name anyway, Miss?”

Locum Tenens: The Charles Brown Orchestra.

CoolLuke Sands: Grand parents always played it at Christmas time. Not certain of the significance.....But it is soothing.

Elise Capalini glances at Locum, surprised he knows the music.

Deacon Korhonen: “Excuse me, Mr. Sands. May I cut in and have a dance with this lovely young woman?”

Li Mei smiles at Mr. Burnside, “Let’s go to my shuttle, Mr. Burnside. I have some things to show you. She leaves the ball arm in arm with Tuo Li.

Tuo Li Burnside sweats as he leaves with the companion.

CoolLuke Sands: But of course sir. If that is alright with you Ms. Capalini.

Anastasia Christensen wraps her arms around the woman and begins to move them both to the sound of the music, “My name is Anastasia, but you can call me simply Ana. What might your name be?”

Deacon Korhonen: “Thank you, Sir. You don’t mind, do you, Miss?”

Elise Capalini shakes her head. “No, no...Mr. Sands, it was a pleasure.”

CoolLuke Sands kisses her hand, “No. The pleasure was all mine. Good evening Ma’am.”

Shana Meads suppresses a little jump(!), but lets herself be lead. Swaaaay, swaaaay. “Well, I’m Shana, but you can call me... Shana.” Nervous laugh. Someone’s not on her game tonight! “Are you from around these parts, Ana?”

CoolLuke Sands: I noticed that your dancing companion has left. Would it too forward of me to ask you to dance

Lena Lei: Not at all, Mr Sands.

Anastasia Christensen shakes her head, “Naw not really. I just feel like slumming every now and again.” She gives a laugh as her arms wrap tighter around the woman.

Roshelle Gustafson: uh huh

Elise Capalini looks at her dance partner. “Did I hear you say you were a pilot?”

Deacon Korhonen: “Yes, Ms. Capalini, I was. I still fly from time to time, but now I spend my days running one of the cargo companies at the Eavesdown docks.”

Cimorene Ronmark feels a buzzing on her wrist. Looking down, she sees an emergency code. “Oh no. I’ve got a comms breakdown. I need to get back to see what’s wrong. It’s been a pleasure dancing, Sanpieere.”

Elise Capalini glances at Cim. “I hope it doesn’t hurt the transmission of my next article for the paper...”

Sanpierre Juran looks concerned. “A problem, Ms. Ronmark? I would be happy to offer you the use of my private transport.”

Cimorene Ronmark: I’ll make sure it doesn’t, Elise. Thank you, that would be wonderful.

Elise Capalini grins. “That’s what I like about you.”

Cimorene Ronmark grins at Elise.

Sanpierre Juran beckons to Cimorene. “It’s this way. A bit hidden. Follow me.”

Shana Meads erps, giving a look down at Ana’s hands. “Umm-” She not-totally-casually nudges them a bit lower, into an area a little less awkward! “-This- is slumming?” The young woman takes a look at the material her dance partner’s wearing, and blanches.

Cimorene Ronmark: Good night, all!

Elise Capalini: The Eavesdown docks, you say... I may have been there in passing...

Deacon Korhonen: “Anyone who has been to Persephone has been to the docks. Have you done much traveling, Ms. Capalini?”

Elise Capalini nods slightly. “I used to travel extensively. These days, not quite as much, though reporting for the paper keeps me busy.”

Anastasia Christensen laughs as she leans closer to the Shana’s ear, “Not you my dear but these balls are always so terribly boring. I just come to them for a little amusement.” She looks the woman over casually, “Sometimes the amusement can be much better then others.”

Deacon Korhonen: “You’re a reporter? That’s wonderful! It must be a fascinating line of work.”

Elise Capalini’s lips curl in a smile and perhaps she snorts a bit--but delicately. “You have no idea...the things people will tell you...” She sighs, thinking of work. “My boss... I should log my report on the ball tonight...” She glances up at the room and sees how many people have left.

Deacon Korhonen: “I’ve seen and heard many odd things on my ships over the years, Miss. You wouldn’t believe what people do when they travel and think no one is watching.”

Shana Meads’s cheeks color a teensy bit. “I think we must be entirely different classes, Ana- This is the fanciest place I’ve been in years.” Her tone’s rather wry and self-deprecating.

Elise Capalini laughs. “Oh I propbably would.”

Anastasia Christensen smirks, “Well now, maybe we will just have to change that hmmm?” Her hands slide back upward on the woman.

Elise Capalini slips out of the pilot’s arms. “Thank you for the dance.” She glances behind her. “You too, Mr. Sands. It was a lovely evening.”

CoolLuke Sands: My pleasure Ms Capalini

Deacon Korhonen: “Have a lovely evening, Ms. Capalini. Feel free to drop by and say hello if you’re ever on Persephone.”

Elise Capalini smiles at those who remain. “My article will only be kind to all of you...”

Shana Meads -jumps- back, semi-stumbling to try and not step on anything breakable. “I’m, not, ah, entirely comfortable in this sort of setting-”

Anastasia Christensen looks down at the woman, “Well I am finding this party pretty lame myself. If I recall on my way in there was a nice little place down the street. Shall we go there and see what they have to offer?”

Deacon Korhonen: “Excuse me, Ms Meads. May I cut in and have a dance with Ms Christensen?”

Shana Meads erks- So much for the backup plan- Wait! Yes! She’s all a-flurry as she hears Deacon’s offer. “OhI’mcertainshewon’tmindwillyouAna-” It might be insulting how she’s accepting so quickly, but near-panic is kinda cute, isn’t it?

Deacon Korhonen: “Why, thank you, Ms. Meads. Very kind of you.”

Anastasia Christensen smiles at the woman and then the man, “I suppose it is alright. Miss Shana, I expect to be dancing with you again.”

Shana Meads stammers something unintelligible out, before slipping out towards the door. Safety!

Anastasia Christensen mutters under her breath, “We shall meet again Miss Shana.”

Deacon Korhonen: "So, Ms. Christensen, how are you this evening?"

Anastasia Christensen smiles over her shoulder, "Oh I am doing well and how are you Mister Korhonen?"

Deacon Korhonen: "Doing well. I simply must travel more often. This has been an enjoyable evening."

Anastasia Christensen laughs, "Oh yes it has been a very pleasant evening. Though this place has nothing decent to drink. You would think they would with all the money they spent."

Deacon Korhonen: "Anything is better than Mudder's Milk." He grimaces.

“Let’s hope that all continues to go so well for you and I.”

As the Bodyguard escorts the Captain of Raven towards the party, they encounter a familiar face.

Rae Overholt: You the boss man?

Locum Tenens: Ah how very nice to see you again. Are you sure you are at the correct party?

Rae Overholt: What do you mean?

Locum Tenens: Well, you aren’t exactly dressed for high society, and well... I prefer not to mix the help in with my clients.

Rae Overholt rolls her eyes and turns to go back to the bar.

The Bodyguard gestures to an exceptionally well dressed pair, deep in conversation and surrounded by six large, well dressed and heavily armed bodyguards. “This is the Captain of Raven.”

Rae Overholt: Oh.
******************************************************************************
Outside the Party:
Rohan Wallace: And how are you this evening, Miss Small?

Amelia Small smiles, “I am doing well and how are you?”

Rohan Wallace: “Actually, I am in a fabulous mood. Things have been going well...”

Amelia Small smiles and gives a little nod, “Let’s hope that all continues to go so well for you and I.”

Rohan Wallace smiles, a slow nod over His shoulder. “Indeed...”

Jenny Kasei stands beside Wallace and Miss Small. “Well, as parties go, this one is shaping up to be less than stellar, though it’s nicer than watching raisins dry, I suppose.”

Amelia Small chuckles

Rohan Wallace glances over his shoulder, shaking his head slightly towards the men with him. “Good evening. I don’t believe we have met... I am Rohan Wallace...”

Jenny Kasei smiles. “Of Wallace’s Mining? It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Jenna Kasei. Opera singer.”

Amelia Small smiles, “I think it will turn into a rather nice gathering and if it doesn’t. Well I am sure there is some way to recover something for the loss of time.”

Rohan Wallace arches an eyebrow slightly. “Well, I am indeed honored. Love your voice...”

Jenna Kasei wrinkles her nose as Shen approaches. “It appears that they’ll let anybody in these days.”

Rohan Wallace: And indeed, Miss Small. There is always a way...

Locum Tenens: The crew of the Raven finally flys...

Rohan Wallace stares coldly at the group on the street. “Indeed...”

Rae Overholt stands there, waiting.

Amelia Small smiles across the ropes, “Why Captain Overholt! I’m so pleased to finally meet you in person! We heard that you were here! Look at these decorations! Isn’t it so lovely! How is everybody on that fine boat of yours? That charming First Mate? That ever-so attractive silent one, was he your mechanic? I received your payment of my shares of the salvaged cargo, well done! You’ll be the first person I think of when I have more tricky work to be performed.”

Locum Tenens: my goodness Miss Small! I didn’t expect to see you here. the evening is looking up!

Rae Overholt’s eyes go cold as she sees Miss Small. “My crew is fine, can’t say the same for all those kids on that ship we salvaged for though.”

Amelia Small just stands there next to Wallace and gives a little shrug of her shoulders.

Jenna Kasei moves closer to Wallace, though they just met, and touches his arm as though she’s with him. “Rohan, allow me to introduce you to these fine spacemen. The little one is Shen. The taller one in the red dress has no manners. She nearly had me tortured and killed just for stepping aboard her ship.”

Rohan Wallace nods towards Jenna, wordlessly, “So this is Rae Overholt, I’ve heard much about you. Thanks to you giving transport to Fan, my mines are not running at peak efficiency. My associate, Mr Niska kept his word to Fan, and did pay me for her, so I hope she’s of value to you.”

Rae Overholt smiles at Wallace, negating to mention Fan is dead.

Rohan Wallace: It’s a shame he sold that Xiao Li to you instead of me, she would have been the perfect example for my workers, especially after Fan’s abrupt ‘resignation’.”

Rae Overholt: I’m sure she would have.

Shen Jiutai shifts nervously, attempts a small smile at Jenna...

Shana Meads meanders on outside for some air, and- “Well now.” Blink, blink. “So the party’s out here?” And she shamelessly ogles some of the bodyguard-types, letting the door close behind her.

Rohan Wallace lowers his voice and leans closer to Rae, “Miss Goodnight must have good reasons not to turn you and your moth-eaten crew over to me. However, I’ll tell you this: if your ship ever comes within 100 kilometers of my operation again, I’ll have that piece of gos-se blown out of the sky on sight.”

Rae Overholt: I’m sure.

Shen Jiutai shifts her weight, “How are you Jenna?”

Jenna Kasei looks at Shen long enough that she couldn’t have missed the smile, but remains expressionless until she looks over at Wallace and smiles. “So, these folks have crossed you as well. Is there somebody in the system they haven’t cheated or robbed yet?”

Shen Jiutai sinks, crestfallen.

Rohan Wallace smiles softly towards Jenna, straightening, adjusting His tie. Quietly, he murmurs. “A mistake they will not repeat...”

Shana Meads shivers a bit. Perhaps she shouldn’t be listening in on this... So! She slowly sneeeeeaks back inside.

Shen Jiutai looks to Rae, “Cap’n, are we done here? Is there anything more Mr Willis?”

Rae Overholt: I’m thinkin’ we are Shen.

Rohan Wallace glances over to the man. “No. I believe we are quite finished here.”

Rae Overholt turns and walks back to the bar, puzzled as to why she was there in the first place.

Shen Jiutai turns to leave, sparing a second for one last look at Jenna, sighs, and heads back to the bar with Rae.

Jenny Kasei ignores Wallace’s men and stands well within his personal space. “It must be awfully boring on a mining colony without any of the finer things to amuse you. Perhaps some art to divert your mind from the mundane everyday tasks of running a mine? Opera, perhaps...”

Rohan Wallace turns, facing the two lovely ladies, openly oggling the lovely Jenna. “Indeed. Perhaps I might convince you to come perform for Me there...?”

Amelia Small smiles, “Perhaps I should find someone to look after me that isn’t so distracted Mister Wallace.”

Jenny Kasei: I do so enjoy performing on new worlds, Mister Wallace. But do not let me keep you from your guest.

Rohan Wallace: Ahhhh... Miss Small. I was about to escort you both inside. I have another matter to tend to this evening.”

Jenny Kasei turns to Miss Small. “Where are my manners? We haven’t been properly introduced.”

Rohan Wallace: Allow Me...

You were a mime? I should shoot you for that alone.

Rae drags Gabe out to a street corner, to confront him.

Rae: So what’s your gorram problem???

Gabriel Keats: “Does it matter what I say?”

Rae: Wont know till you say it.

Gabriel Keats: “Felt myself slipping again.” He keeps his words clipped, short.’

Rae: So, without a word. Nothing. You desert me.

Gabriel Keats: “It wasn’t as though I got a whole lot of warning myself.”

Rae: You got warnin’ enough to desert me, not look back. Not say a word. Time to get off my ship and sneak off somewhere, plan an escape.

Gabriel Keats: “Who the ruttin’ hell said I planned anything?”

Rae: You ain’t dead. Had to have planned something.

Gabriel Keats: “Luck.”

Rae: Luck. Luck we could have used. All those pretty words you said to me, don’t mean nothin’ do they?

Gabriel Keats glares. “Why the hell do you think I was in the bar?”

Rae: Guilt?

Gabriel Keats: “I couldn’t stay away.” He sounds angry and scared balled up at once.

Rae: Why would that be?

Gabriel Keats: “Because I--” He stops. Clenches his jaw.

Rae Overholt crosses her arms, “Because what Gabe? You were worried about us?”

Gabriel Keats: “Because I couldn’t ruttin’ well stay away from you!”

Rae: You’re an odd man Gabe. Going from trying to kill me to sayin’ the pretty words you said to deserting me to crawlin’ back.

Gabriel Keats: “I could--I could lose it, Rae; I could go gorram crazy, and I know it could. . . I know people around me--” He takes a deep breath. “And I come back, and I put you in danger.”

Rae: We already had this gorram conversation Gabe.

Gabriel Keats: “Yeah. I know we have.”

Rae: And, as a side bar, what are you wearin’?

Gabriel Keats’s cheeks turn red. “Came to Paquin ‘cause I heard you were like to come here. Was low on money, so. . . I used some of my. . .” He mumurs the rest. “Some of what I learned in theatre...”

Rae: To do what??

Gabriel Keats turns bright red.

Rae: You dressed up like Zorro to get creds to crawl back to me?

Gabriel Keats puts his hands in front of him. He presses his palms forward, as though against an invisible wall.

Rae: You were a mime? I should shoot you for that alone.

Gabriel Keats , through gritted teeth. “Street. . . performer. . .”

Rae: Uh huh. Just so you know. You get the couch in the crew lounge tonight.

Gabriel Keats: “Didn’t think I’d be allowed on the ship.”

Rae: Can’t do without a first mate.

Gabriel Keats tosses her a small pouch with some credits in it. It’s a decent amount, for busking.

Rae Overholt catches it and looks back at him, puzzled, “Whats that for?”

Gabriel Keats: “If I’m still crew. . . .my earnings go to you.”

Rae Overholt tosses them back, “Use it to buy me something pretty, or chocolate.”

Gabriel Keats takes it back with a brisk nod.

Rae: Guess we should head back so you can get out of the mime clothes and change into something real and get your spot on the couch warm.

Gabriel Keats: “Might be a good idea. Rae, I-- Those weren’t just words.”

Rae Overholt looks at him, waiting. “Why’d you leave me like you did then Gabe?”

Gabriel Keats: “Because I didn’t want to hurt you without knowing that you’d be OK afterwards.”

Rae Overholt shakes her head. “You’re stupid for a reader.”

Gabriel Keats: “I try not to read--”

Rae: But you do, and you did and you know.

Gabriel Keats: “Knowing what to do and doing it. . . are very different.”

Rae: I can’t manage this ship without you Gabe. I’m not captain material. I need that extra set of hands and eyes and ..

Gabriel Keats: “You’re captain material, whether you believe it or not.”

Rae Overholt shakes her head, “I’ve got us nothin’ but trouble since this whole thing started.”

Gabriel Keats: “and you got yourself out of it.”

Rae: Nope, not really.

A Quick note from the Cook to the Captain

Cap'n Rae, I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you that just before we lifted off from Burnet, Ole' Jadi cornered me and made it clear she was expecting to have a clear accounting of how the money Mr Tenens was paying us was spent, and made me responsible. In effect, I think she has appointed me the Ship's Purser. She seems to think that her cut is 50% after expenses, and expects monthly updates. I was then escorted to Mr Tenens and, with Ms Jadi present, we worked out monthly payments to the ship of 833 credits for the next year.

By looking at our past logs, it seems we go through about 600 creds/month on fuel, 24 creds/month each for food for the crew and around 200 creds for Ammo, Med supplies and sundries.
For our crew of six plus our tenant, that works out to 944 creds, so we're in the lucky position of only needing to earn 135 creds each month to keep flying. Fortunately, with renting the shuttle for 300 creds/month, we have a whole 165 credits to split first with Jadi at 50%, leaving 82.5 to divide among us six crew-members.

I think it is time we re-examined crew salaries and/or percentages.

So the good news is that we can keep flying. The bad news is that we still gotta keep the work coming in, and with Jadi expectin' 50%, it's gotta pay, but at least we ain't gotta use 'Brina's pa's shine in the engines no more.

Is it really worth the risk to keep comin' back here?

THE STORY SO FAR: Our fearless crew has returned to Washtown only to find a rather un-dead and agitated Jadi Goodnight who orders the removal of Raven's ultra-tech, and expresses disappointment with the way the last few missions have been handled...

1 Week Later:

Shen Jiutai walks up to Rae, "Thank Budda those Hu-dans are gone!!! they.... well.... anyways, I'm glad they're gone..."

Rae Overholt: Huh?

Shen Jiutai shakes her head, "Aww it's nothing... I mean I think they might have taken a little more than just the extra equipment..."

Rae Overholt: like?

Shen Jiutai looks away and suddenly finds a passing bird very interesting, "Nuthin'." She gestures over towards the hoban... "Buy ya a drink Cap?"

Rae Overholt nods

Li Mei joins the pair on their way to the Hoban, "Ah, there you are, Rae. Could I have a word with you?"

Jadi Goodnight is lurking, yes. Or maybe looming. But yeah, doing the bodyguard-thing.

Shen Jiutai digs into her pocket and places a wrinkled bill on the counter, "Two whiskies, please," She glances at Li Mei, "you drinkin'?'

Anastasia Christensen is looking utterly bored and checking her new manicure.

Li Mei smiles at Shen, "Thank you, no. I'm fine."

Shen Jiutai takes the two glasses, hands one to Rae, nods to Li Mei, and keeps the second for herself.

Li Mei has a seat at the bar.

Rae Overholt turns to Li, "Yeah? Sure. What can I do for you Li?"

Jadi Goodnight spares a glance down at the inside of one of her wrists before murmuring to Ana. "They're late."

Li Mei hesitates a moment and then says, "Well, it would seem that I have a client."

Rae Overholt: Thats good news. Glad someone's luck is looking up.

Li Mei: I have been asked to attend the End of Seasons Ball on Paquin.

Rae Overholt nods, "Needing a ride there or you got service? Not sure if Jadi's going to let us offworld anytime soon."

Li Mei hesitates again, then adds, "I hate to ask this ... but I was wondering if it might be possible to get me there a few days early."

Rae Overholt: I don't see why not, if Jadi lets us lift off.

Li Mei: "Unfortunately, I have not been able to acquire any new clothes in ages, and I can't show myself at that affair looking like this. I need to get there early to be fitted for a gown."

Rae Overholt: Understandable. ::she nods at Li.:: When would we need to leave?

Li Mei smiles, "Well, as soon as possible. The ball is in a week."

Rae Overholt looks thoughtful as she turns to Shen, "Well? Think thats possible? Are we able to fly yet?"

Shen Jiutai checks her drink, "Yeah, Rol says we'll be able to fly... ain't that far out, this time o year..."

Anastasia Christensen looks over at the sharply dressed man, "Well hello there."

Locum Tenens: “Greeting Madame,” he bows. “Allow me to introduce myself. The names Tenens. Locum Tenens”

Anastasia Christensen smiles, "Well it is a pleasure to meet you Mister Tenens."

Locum Tenens: The pleasure is mine most assuredly

Shen Jiutai notices the stranger talking to Miss Ana.

Jadi Goodnight keeps an eye on the new fellow, keeping a pace behind her boss-lady. Ah, the things a bodyguard must put up with... She smiles slightly once she hears the name, though, nodding, and adding: "We've been expecting you. Was there any trouble en route?"

Locum Tenens: No trouble we couldn't handle. What a charming world you have here.

Anastasia Christensen chuckles, "Oh and the most charming pleasures you have not even seen yet. I am sure you will though in time."

Rae Overholt: Well, how about we see if we can head out now?

Shen Jiutai goes quiet watching the exchange at the other end of the bar.

Li Mei glances over at the 3 on the other side of the Hoban before looking back at Shen, "Oh, that's great. I should be able to get there in plenty of time, then."

Jadi Goodnight “hmms,” faintly amused. "If anything else comes up, do tell my people, or myself. When you entered our space, your... welfare... became my responsibility."

Locum Tenens: I'm loking for some.."friends"... the crew of the Raven. might you perchance know where they are?

Shen Jiutai elbows Rae.

Rae Overholt turns in Shen's direction, "Yeah?"

Shen Jiutai says below her breath, "Looks like we got company."

Jadi Goodnight raises an eyebrow, and looks over at Ana. Amazing... Someone actually managed to surprise her!

Anastasia Christensen frowns slightly, "Well if you must be off already you will find some of them over there at the bar. I do hope you will come by the ranch for a drink later."

Rae Overholt: “Good or bad?” she whispers.

Shen Jiutai: Dunno.

Locum Tenens: Madame a platoon of Reavers couldn't keep me away from such a charming invitation.

Anastasia Christensen smiles, "Well then I shall be looking forward to your visit."

Locum Tenens bows to the charming lady.

Li Mei whispers to Rae and Shen, "Do you know him?"

Rae Overholt turns and leans her back against the bar, watching now.

Shen Jiutai whispers to Li Mei, "No, but I don't like the look of 'im."

Mayor of Downing approaches Ana.

Anastasia Christensen turns to smile at the Mayor of Downing, "Well what a pleasant surprise."

Mayor of Downing: Just visiting some properties.

Locum Tenens approaches the Ravenites at the end of the Bar “Greetings. Spectacular night isn't it?”

Rae Overholt: “Quite lovely.” She turns to face him, face pleasant.

Shen Jiutai moves to a position where she can easily reach her weapons.

Mayor of Downing: However, I could use some relaxation. Just got some rough news from my home office.

Anastasia Christensen: Oh relaxation? Now just what do you have in mind?

Mayor of Downing: Well, i'm open to possibilities.

Jadi Goodnight gives the mayor a once-over and a nod, stepping back to let him and Ana talk... And to keep an eye on the crew at the bar.

Locum Tenens: I'm looking for the crew of the firefly class ship Raven. Might you know where I can find them?

Anastasia Christensen smirks at Jadi, "I think the Mayor and I have some business to discuss over at the ranch house."

Mayor of Downing smiles, “Lead the way, Madam.”

Jadi Goodnight nods. "With your permission, Miss Christensen, it might be best if I remain here. In case of an incident."

Anastasia Christensen nods, "Very well I don't think anything is going to come up at the house that I can't handle very well on my own."

Jadi Goodnight suppresses a faint flicker of a smile. "I would imagine so, Miss Christensen." With a nod at the two Important Peoples, she moves closer to the bar, being conspicuous.

Rae Overholt: Well, What would you be needing of them?

Shen Jiutai's hand hovers over her sidearm.

Locum Tenens: I hear told they are an industrious crew. Word is they get the job done.

Rae Overholt: I hear they do their best.

Locum Tenens: Words are words. I'd like to find out for real.

Li Mei listens quietly to the discussion

Rae Overholt: “Well, suppose I could help you out maybe.” She leans her elbow on the bar, “I'm Rae.”

Locum Tenens: Excuse me... I'm being rude. The names Tenens... Locum Tenens

Anastasia Christensen looks at the Mayor, "Shall we make our way over to the house?"

Mayor of Downing: Absolutely.

Rae Overholt: Rae, Rae Overholt.

Locum Tenens: Pleased to make your acquaintance.

Rae Overholt nods.

Locum Tenens bows. “And you would be the captain of the Raven?”

Rae Overholt: For the current time I would.

Locum Tenens: Splendid! Shall we speak of business or can I buy you a drink first?

Rae Overholt: I prefer to talk business with a clear head. What can I do for you?

Locum Tenens: That's the real question isn't it? I'm looking for a crew that can handle anything and doesn’t fear The Alliance. I'm the new head of my families affairs on Meridian and Burnet. I need a crew I can rely on to handle certain jobs that come up from time to time.

Rae Overholt: Well I'm a cautious woman. You find a crew that says they ain’t afraid of The Alliance its my firm belief you found a crew of fools. I believe a little fear is healthy.

Li Mei smiles.

Jadi Goodnight can't help but smirk a little at that.

Locum Tenens: Agreed. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. And you stand to gain a great deal.

Rae Overholt: Well, what do you need us to do?

Locum Tenens: Depends... ever rob a bank?

Rae Overholt: No.

Locum Tenens: No... well thats a shame. Smugglers then I'd wager from the looks of you. If you were bank robbers you'd be dressed better.

Shen Jiutai "Hunh"s

Li Mei glares at Tenes, "I'm not dressed well?"

Rae Overholt: This conversation is getting me nowhere. I have a drink I’d like to finish.

Locum Tenens: Pardon my bluntness but time is of the essence. So tell me then, mighty crew of the Raven, what is your speciality? Slave transport? Drug running? Black market beagles? Please enlighten me. It'll be more than worth your while. I can be a powerful powerful ally.

Rae Overholt’s gaze turns stony. "We don’t run slaves."

Locum Tenens: Yes, yes, I see... all the talk I hear about the Raven crew "getting the job done" is slowly evaporating like an Ice Planet in a child’s warm hand. So tell me... what IS your speciality. I'm dying to know.

Rae Overholt: Cargo.

Locum Tenens: A very vague word. Cargo can be many many things.

Rae Overholt nods.

Locum Tenens: Tell me, are you planning on a trip to the core anytime soon?

Rae Overholt: Might could make one.

Locum Tenens: You see, the people I represent are many. Linked together throughout the system. Controlling it. Guiding it. Mastering it. Like a Dragon one might say. We need to be many places at the same time. Do you catch my drift?

Rae Overholt: I do.

Shen Jiutai draws her katana and points it at Locum, "A Dragon!!!???!!!"

Jadi Goodnight ah-HEMs. "-Miss- Jiutai." Her hand is on her gun. "-Do- remember the rules of this world."

Rae Overholt: Weapons down.

Locum Tenens: Not polite to point such things mei-mei.

Rae Overholt keeps her back away from Locum.

Shen Jiutai grudgingly returns her sword to her scabbard.

Locum Tenens: I do admire a girl with... spirit... sure I can’t buy you a drink? Looks like you need one. No pun intended.

Shen Jiutai looks to Rae, "A Dragon, here?"

Rae Overholt nods, "Apparently Shen. I think I will pass for tonight."

Shen Jiutai holds herself back from saying anything too impolite, "What in the gorram hell is he doing here?"

Rae Overholt turns to jadi, "I reckon he's partners with someone here."

Jadi Goodnight gives Shen a Look, then spares a little of it to Rae. "Mister Tenens and his organization are the first of many invited guests of Miss Christensen. I would recommend remaining respectful."

Locum Tenens: Yes let us be friendly. Very well. Can we now speak of business? I have a load of cashy money just waiting waiting waiting for an industrious crew.

Shen Jiutai grunts.

Rae Overholt looks to Jadi, figuring there isn’t much choice. "Sure speak on."

Jadi Goodnight gives a slight nod and settles back, keeping a watchful eye on the tiny-yet-well-armed Ravenite.

Shen Jiutai walks over to Li Mei, "Mind if I borrow your shawl? the Cap'n looks cold." She takes Li Mei's wrap off without waiting for a response and places it over Rae's shoulders.

Rae Overholt secures the wrap, "Thanks Shen, I was freezing."

Li Mei looks taken aback at Shen's rudeness for a moment, then shrugs, "She does look a bit chilly."

Locum Tenens: What I want from you is very very simple. I have a need to be informed. Where you are going and the like. No need for details. Something may come up. Something lucrative.

Shen Jiutai looks to Rae with a serious 'we need to talk' expression in her eyes.

Locum Tenens: My dear, have you caught a chill?

Rae Overholt: “Seems so.” Rae Overholt holds the shawl tightly.

Locum Tenens: You are all goose bumped. I hope I have not frightened you.

Shen Jiutai tries to look casual.

Rae Overholt: I'm fine.

Li Mei hugs her arms tightly around herself, starting to feel chilled.

Locum Tenens: I...hope...so. So do we have and agreement yes?

Rae Overholt: What's the pay?

Locum Tenens: Enough to get you some more stylish "smuggling wear” hahaha... pardon... the pay is 10,000 per cycle for the information and your confidence. All else is negotiated at the proper time.

Shen Jiutai smiles "So, Mr Tenens, wasn't there an agreement with Mr Xeno and the Dragons?"

Locum Tenens: Xeno? ah yes... I'm tending the flock in the meantime. Speak only to me.

Rae Overholt: Alright.

Shen Jiutai: But... he was...

Locum Tenens: Was.. yes... someday maybe again... who can say. The wheel never stops turning.

Shen Jiutai frowns at the news, Xeno was a misogynistic bastard, but he was a known quantity.

Rae Overholt taps her ear and mumbles a moment before turning back to Locum.

Locum Tenens: 10,000. yes? no?

Shen Jiutai: You can't possibly mean 10K credits?

Locum Tenens smirks "Yes most definitely"

Shen Jiutai's jaw drops open at the figure.

Rae Overholt: Fine.

Locum Tenens: "fine" is neither yes nor no.

Rae Overholt: Yes..

Locum Tenens: “Splendid!” He offers his hand to seal the deal. “Shake on it. I insist.”

Rae Overholt holds out her hand.

Locum Tenens takes Raes hand and grasps it firmly, drawing her close.

Mayor of Downing straightens his clothing as he comes back in.

Li Mei notices the mayor straightening his clothes and smirks.

Locum Tenens: “My dear... you are shivering. This should be a happy occasion. You are about to become rich.”

Rae Overholt does her best to maintain some distance as she holds firmly on the shawl. She smiles, 'Cold night out, what can I say."
Mayor of Downing gets a scotch and bolts it.

Jadi Goodnight doesn't bother hiding a small, satisfied smile, and adds dryly: "Best of luck in your venture, Captain Overholt. I'm -sure- you won't disappoint."

Locum Tenens looks curiously at Raes shoulder and furrows his brow slightly... then smiles widely.

Rae Overholt shoots Jadi a veiled scathing look.

Shen Jiutai closes the distance between herself and Rae, "Perhaps we should check the ship then..."

Rae Overholt: “I agree.” She releases Locum's hand and darts off in the direction of the firefly.

Li Mei shivers, "If you will all excuse me, I'll go get my things from Ana's and get them back to the shuttle."

Locum Tenens: I expect a report on every move you make. Every move.

Shen Jiutai hustles Rae away from the place calling back, "We'll be in touch!"

Jadi Goodnight just smirks back at the captain, stepping out of the path of travel.

Locum Tenens bows low but never takes his eyes off the departing crew.

Mayor of Downing lights a cigar.
*************************************************************************************************



Shen Jiutai stomps into the cargo bay and sits on the catwalk. Looking down to a quiet Roland, she asks, "Did those hu-dons leave anything worth a damn?"

Roland Josephus: Well.. we can fly, and we don't have to hold our breath when we do it.

Xiao Li Marshall paces restlessly back and forth on the catwalk. “If we're not out of this gou-shi town in an hour I swear to God I'm stealing a gorram shuttle and going by myself.”

Shen Jiutai watches the fidgeting pilot as she passes by, "Nothing left? I bet they went through every nook and cranny..." her eyes go wide for a second and she jumps up and bolts up the catwalk and through the Port engine hatchway.

Roland Josephus shrugs, and goes back to work,

Xiao Li Marshall stops and watches Shen go. "What's gotten into her?"

Roland Josephus shrugs, "Sometimes it better if'n you don't know."

Shen Jiutai returns from the engine compartment with a slightly irritated look on her face muttering, "He chusheng zajiao de zanghuo!"

Xiao Li Marshall: What'd they take?

Shen Jiutai glances at the pilot, "Hunh? Oh, nothing..." She makes her way down to the Cargo Bay floor, "Is the Cap'n in town?"

Xiao Li Marshall shakes her head. "'s why I keep all my critical data on me 'stead of in my bunk. Fuckers tore out half my Cortex rig."

Roland Josephus shrugs, and flips his welding mask back down, "Couldn't say... She don't check in with me."

Xiao Li Marshall: Dunno where else she'd be...

Shen Jiutai figures it won't hurt to tell the alcoholic pilot about the booze that ain't there, "They took my 'extra rations' that what was left after springing you from Niska."

Xiao Li Marshall: ...ah hell. Didn't take any o' mine. Wonder why that is...

Shen Jiutai shakes her head, "3 cases of Blue Sun Grain... coulda’ got 30 creds for it, or better, if'n they're desperate..."

Xiao Li Marshall walks down to Shen. "For what it's worth, you c'n have some o' mine."

Roland Josephus flips up his mask for a moment or two, eyeballing the weld. He shakes his head, and nods once, flipping the mask closed, and bringing up the torch.

Shen Jiutai: That ain't the point... I traded , bargained and dealt for that stuff, it was like my security blanket... 'course mosta it went to Buck... for your release...

Xiao Li Marshall says nothing.

Shen Jiutai mutters some more unprintable Chinese and heads towards the hatchway, "I'm gonna go find the Cap'n."

Roland Josephus shuts of the torch, and grunts from under the mask.

Xiao Li Marshall resumes pacing again. She no longer likes Washburne. At all.

Roland Josephus: Easy there... We'll be back in black 'afore you know it.

Xiao Li Marshall: We'd better be.

Roland Josephus: Well you made it a week.. few more hours won't matter much... Sides worryin’ about it is like tryin’ to solve a math problem with bubble gum.

Xiao Li Marshall: ...that works better than you'd figure, actually.

Roland Josephus looks up at the catwalk silently.

Xiao Li Marshall shrugs. "A little Blue Sun ginseng chewin' gum on the circuit board in a public Cortex terminal... Stuff's surprisingly conductive."

Roland Josephus: What that got to do with you wearin’ a hole in the catwalk?

Xiao Li Marshall snaps testily, "Nothin'. Ain't you got weldin' to do still?"

Roland Josephus shrugs, "Nothen pressin’... I'd like to save the catwalks if'n I can though.. I need to walk on 'em ever once ,and again." He watches for a moment, "Calm down some, you'll do us both some good."

Xiao Li Marshall: How the RUTTING HELL am I s'posed to calm down?! Jadi all but said she'd sell us all out to Wallace if she got the chance! We're sittin' in the middle of a town that supports slavers, hell, we're *workin'* for someone who supports slavers! And you want me calm??

Roland Josephus: She's lose a ship.. Sides if she wanted you sold out.. You'd be sold out already.. Since you ain't, and since you're still Raven crew.. means you got a few folks at least that'd like to see you stay around a spell.... There’s always gonna be slavers... Calm pilot likely as not.. See a crew though.. Like a good ship."

Xiao Li Marshall shakes her head and marches up the stairs and out of the cargo bay, muttering curses under her breath.

Roland Josephus moves over to the coffee pot, and picks up the nearest cup. He peers inside it before sniffing it once, and filling it with the black brew, "Well... Its a heap better 'n pacin’... I'll give you that."

Xiao Li Marshall just grunts.

Roland Josephus chuckles, and lifts his cup to drink 'Fair enough." After a few minutes together in quiet, he set the empty mug down, and moves back towards the engine room without a word.

Xiao Li Marshall abruptly slams her drink down on the tabletop. "TA MA DE! What the hell is takin' them so long?!"

Roland Josephus sticks his head back into the galley, wiping his hands off on a rag, "Easy now."

Xiao Li Marshall: I. Want. To. Get. Off. This. Rock.

Roland Josephus nods, 'And you will. Soon as we're able."

Xiao Li Marshall: And when is that, Mister Genius Mechanic?

Roland Josephus: Well still need to run a few engine tests... Thirty minutes a piece.. and I reckon we'll need the rest of th’ crew.. Less'n you're a mind to strand 'em."

Xiao Li Marshall: An' that's the other thing. Where the tian xiao de is Kevin? He gets the holes from the guns patched up and then galavants off to who-knows-where!

Roland Josephus shrugs, "Couldn't say... Ain't really my week to keep up with 'im.. He'll be back I reckon."

Xiao Li Marshall snorts. "Wouldn't mind strandin' *him.*"

Roland Josephus chuckles, "He kinda sticks in a person's craw don't 'e?"

Xiao Li Marshall: An' when we could actually *use* his help he's nowhere to be found.

Roland Josephus: Well I reckon we can get along without 'im for a few days.. Sides.. He's prolly tryin’ to scrounge up a new gun to mount on 'er... He was mighty proud of it."

Xiao Li Marshall: Think we're gonna actually be able to *keep* 'em this time?

Roland Josephus shrugs, "I couldn't tell ya.. I jest don't want to patch 'er into the core coolant again.. No tellin’ how that will end up."

Xiao Li Marshall cringes.

Roland Josephus: But I reckon you can fire up 'er to say... 25%.. make sure she don't cough.

Xiao Li Marshall nods and gets up. It's something to kill time, anyway... Xiao Li Marshall hops into the pilot's seat and pulls down the comm. "Okay, Rol, get your mitts out of the engine, I'm startin' the test run..."

Roland Josephus punches the com button, "I'm clear.. just take her to a quarter.. Make sure the seals hold on the core."

Xiao Li Marshall: “On it. Starting up in 3...2...1...” She slowly powers up the engine... “Ten percent... how we doin' back there?”

Roland Josephus's voice comes through the com, "She's lookin’ good... Real good."

Xiao Li Marshall: 15%.... 16.... 17.... 20... 21... 22...

Roland Josephus: "You got any red lights on your board?”

You: Nothin' so far... 23.... 24.... 25% and holding steady!

Roland Josephus: Looks good from this end.. You might com the Cap'n and tell 'er we got a heartbeat.

Xiao Li Marshall: Powering down... And we're out.

Roland Josephus: Be another hour or so.. We'll run another.

:::::on comm system to Rae:::::

:::Xiao Li Marshall: Captain Overholt's comm unit buzzes at her.:::

:::Rae Overholt reaches up and taps it, "mmm?":::

:::Xiao Li Marshall: Cap'n? Rol an' I just ran a test on the engines. Runnin' smooth as silk at 25% power. Just thought you should know.:::

:::Rae Overholt: 'kay.:::

:::Xiao Li Marshall: What's the word on your end?:::

:::Rae Overholt: moment.:::

:::Xiao Li Marshall drums her fingers on the console as she waits.:::

:::Rae Overholt: *quietly into coms as she rushes away from the bar* “Dragons at the bar.”:::

:::Xiao Li Marshall: ...fuck.:::

Xiao Li Marshall quickly switches from the external to internal comm system. "Rol? We got Dragons."

Roland Josephus pause, and clicks, the com, "You say Dragons?"

Xiao Li Marshall: No, I said 'kumquats.' WHAT DO YOU THINK I SAID??

Roland Josephus: How much you had to drink there?

Xiao Li Marshall hisses into the comm, "The Dragons are a *crime syndicate,* you idiot! An' they got a claim on the Cap'n!

Roland Josephus clicks on the comm, "Nobody told me about that when I signed on.. Where are they?"

Xiao Li Marshall: At the Hoban, Rae's on her way back here...

Rae Overholt stomps into the firefly cursing.

Xiao Li Marshall slides out of her seat and fairly gallops down the corridor to the cargo bay. “Cap'n?”

Rae Overholt stands on the catwalk, cursing and glaring. "I wish that Jadi'd died. She’s gonna get us all killed.. The dragons are moving in by their invitation. Ana's just as bad as Jadi."

Xiao Li Marshall: ...Ta ma DE. Slavers AND gangsters? Cap'n, we gotta get out of there.

Rae Overholt: Got any ideas how?

Roland Josephus follows Xiao Li out, "You all know some really bad folks..."

Xiao Li Marshall: Well, we *are* kinda on a spaceship...

Rae Overholt: Yeah that she could trace in a heartbeat if she didn’t shoot us out of the sky. Locum wants info on every move we make.

Xiao Li Marshall shakes her head. "An' the guy who might be able to get us *off* their radar has gone off to god-knows-where again..."

Rae Overholt: Are we surprised?

Roland Josephus crosses his arms across his chest, and listens.

Li Mei returns from Ana's, carrying her bag and heads for her shuttle.

Rae Overholt takes the shawl off her shoulders and takes it to Li, "Thanks Li. Guess I gotta get a new wardrobe, or a tattoo removed'

Li Mei stops and the door to the shuttle and puts her bag down, listening to the conversation. She smiles, "Anytime Rae. I'm glad to be of some use around here finally."

Xiao Li Marshall: That makes two of us who are wanted in this town. Is it really worth the risk to keep comin' back here?

Rae Overholt: Three of us if we count Kevin.

Shen Jiutai looks grim, "Uh, Rae, these things are burned in at the molecular level, we can't just take 'um off."

Rae Overholt: Rio said...

Shen Jiutai: “Look, this is something I kinda did some research on...” She removes her jacket.

Rae Overholt looks.

Shen Jiutai pulls off her Raven tee shirt and turns her back, showing a tattoo similar to Rae's.

Roland Josephus blinks a bit in surprise, "All the women on this boat got those?"

Li Mei shakes her head, "No ... I don't"

Xiao Li Marshall: Hey now, I ain't got any tattoos. Just a slave brand and a shitload of whip-scars.

Rae Overholt: Great. We're both done for.

Xiao Li Marshall: See? I told you, we need to get OUT of here!

Rae Overholt: Well, they spread through the whole system. Don't know we can.

Shen Jiutai turns around, "Gorram Dragons deposed my family's 'business'…”

Roland Josephus looks down at the deck, and shakes his head.

Shen Jiutai: I was just a girl at the time, we all got them.

Xiao Li Marshall: There's gotta be something better than having our home base in a town that's RUN by them.

Rae Overholt: Seems this one is the only one here for now. Let's hope they think he does the job good enough they don’t send others.

Shen Jiutai: The impression I got was that he was just standing in for Xeno until... what did happen to Xeno anyways?

Rae Overholt: I imagine he ran.

Shen Jiutai: He seemed to be in charge when I had my... er... accident.

Rae Overholt shakes her head, "I imagine he crossed the wrong person."

Shen Jiutai nods and reaches to the floor and picks up her tee shirt.

Xiao Li Marshall sags. "I need a drink."

Roland Josephus: How soon we want to be up?

Shen Jiutai looks to Xiao Li, "Got any to spare? or are you drivin'?"

Rae Overholt: I say we get out of here now.

Xiao Li Marshall: We've only tested for 25% power...

Rae Overholt: Then test for the rest.

Shen Jiutai: 25%? Let's get outa here!

Roland Josephus nods, "Long as she tests alright... Cap'n.. I don't recommend it."

Rae Overholt: what do you mean?

Shen Jiutai grabs her jacket, "I'm gonna go find that lo se Kevin, and check Ana's place for the Doc, let him know he needs to pull his pants on, we're leavin'."

Rae Overholt nods.

Li Mei picks up her bag and heads for her shuttle

Roland Josephus: We need at lest three more tests....

Rae Overholt sits on the stairs and puts her head in her hands.

Shen Jiutai heads out of the cargo bay and up the hill muttering "Ni ta ma de. Tianxia suoyoude ren dou gai si."

And -what- have you been doing with Miss Christensen’s ship?

Setting: The crew touches down in Washburne for some R&R&R- Refueling, rest, and recreation.
*Int. day: Cargo bay*

Kevin Cliffe: Where’s the captain?

Roland Josephus shrugs, and thumbs toward the ramp, “How am I supposed to know?”

Kevin Cliffe: “Meh...” he hopes the landing wasn’t too hard...didn’t feel like the belly hit, but the ship did feel like it dipped a little far on the shocks...

Roland Josephus nods, “After we shut down I’m going to have ‘er offline for a couple of hours at least.. I’ll take a look at the gear.”

Xiao Li lifts her head off the mattress, realizing they’ve landed.

*The buzzer to the ship’s hold sounds. And again. Must be an impatient guest?*

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, hopefully I didn’t jounce ‘em. It’s been a while since I took us in to land. Least we didn’t smack the belly. “Ta ma de...”

Roland Josephus shakes his head, and glances back toward the bay door, “We expectin’ someone?”

Kevin Cliffe stabs the door controls. “No, but the captain’ll have my butt if we lose business on a closed door.”

*The door opens, and who should be there, but the long-missing-but-not-missed Jadi Goodnight, with Miss Ana standing behind her!*

Kevin Cliffe: Ms Anastasia, Ms. Jadi?

Xiao Li lifts herself up off the bed and rubs her tear-stained face.

Jadi Goodnight is standing in the lock when the inner doors open, tapping her foot and looking... well, not pleased. “And -what- have you been doing with Miss Christensen’s ship?”

Anastasia Christensen stands behind Jadi peering over her shoulder into the ship, “It isn’t busted is it?”

Kevin Cliffe: “Mostly, the work that we’re given plus trying to keep ourselves alive. The last job we had seemed to turn into something bad...” He looks over at Roland queryingly...

Roland Josephus shrugs, “She’ll fly true.”

Kevin Cliffe turns back to the women on the ramp. “There you have it.”

Jadi Goodnight -eyes- Kevin. “The last -few- jobs if my sources are accurate. Where’s Captain Rae?”

Anastasia Christensen leans over and whispers into Jadi’s ear.

Xiao Li drags herself down the stairs onto the catwalk, looking bruised, disheveled, and generally not presentable.

Roland Josephus: You didn’t pass ‘er? Stepped out as soon as we set down.

Xiao Li: Wha’s goin’ on? ‘M tryin’ t’ sleep...

Roland Josephus: Oh no

Jadi Goodnight’s glare darkens. “Well now. She and I will just have to have our talk later.” My, doesn’t -that- sound ominous. She clicks a communicator at her side, turning her head. “Get started.”

Anastasia Christensen gives a little chuckle.

Kevin Cliffe: Get started with what?

Xiao Li grunts and rubs her eyes again.

Roland Josephus looks over at the pilot, and nods once, “We’re down.. Looks like the bosses are here.”

*From behind the two women on the ramp, boots! Many, many, boots, as a small swarm of toolkit-carrying techie-types clomp into the Raven’s bay, ignoring the crew.*

Xiao Li: ...the fuck?

Kevin Cliffe: Excuse me...what is going on here?

Jadi Goodnight: The Raven has certain assets that we need for the town itself. As the Raven and all of its equipment belongs to Miss Christensen, I -trust- there won’t be any objections.

Kevin Cliffe: Uh huh...which assets?

Xiao Li: An’ since when does ALL the equipment belong to Ana?

Jadi Goodnight raises an eyebrow. “The type that officially, do not exist.” Then takes a long look at the pilot. “Since she -bought- the ship and hired you to crew it.”

Kevin Cliffe: And not ALL of the equipment is hers. I still hold the pinkslip on my tools and machine shop... Okay...STOP. Wait a second.

Xiao Li: An’ anyone who touches th’ stuff in my bunk is gonna regret it.

Kevin Cliffe: And if they start pulling out what I think they’re pulling out, THEY are going to regret it. are you kidding me?! You’re pulling the special equipment out of Raven?

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “They think we want their junk.”

Roland Josephus shakes his head, and crosses his arms across his chest, “We’re going to be down more than a couple of hours now.....”

Jadi Goodnight -sighs-. “Your -personal- effects are yours. But yes, -that- equipment, Captain Cliffe. We need it elsewhere.”

Kevin Cliffe: And that crew is going to be down a helluva lot longer than that. I haven’t been a captain for a long time. Hell, I’m not even an XO. But two things.

Xiao Li: You wanna take that gou-shi, you better be prepared to PAY for it like you should have when we installed the damn stuff!

Kevin Cliffe: One, the thermoptics aren’t going to do this town jack, they weren’t built for that kind of task. Two, that bunch of gao se that you just waltzed in here won’t know the first thing about how to set up the offensive assets.

Jadi Goodnight shoots another look at Xiao Li. “We provided the parts, you provided the labor. I -assume- Captain Overholt has been keeping your personal pay up to date, so I see no issues.”

Anastasia Christensen peeks at man over Jadi’s shoulder, “Well maybe I could just take him instead?”

Roland Josephus pauses, and glances behind him for a moment.

Kevin Cliffe: Um...hang on. You did? I put every nut and bolt into that hardware. Most of it was gutted from my old ship.

Jadi Goodnight looks back towards Kevin. “We have other specialists, -Mister- Cliffe. And I seem to recall our sources providing much of the material. Either way- Consider your payment being allowed to continue -working- on this ship, in leu of the profits you have failed to produce for Miss Christensen.”

Anastasia Christensen sighs, “I think on second thought Mister Cliffe talks to much. He’d run the customers off before I could get any to pay a cent for him. I do need a boy whore though. How many fella’s are working on this ship?”

Xiao Li: Considerin’ this is the first we’ve actually HEARD from Miss Christensen in about half a year now....

Kevin Cliffe: While I’m flattered, you’d better have the right kind of software for the fire control and a fusion reactor to supply plasma for and power the guns.

Jadi Goodnight casually rests a hand on the knife at her back, giving the pilot another Look. “-When- Captain Overholt surfaces, I will be getting the details of what has and has not happened from her.” And she looks rather unworried about Kevin’s warnings.

Xiao Li growls back at the bodyguard. “You. Do. Not. Want. To. Cross. Me. Today.”

Kevin Cliffe: You want to know what happened? Our pilot got abducted. We put our OWN money into getting her back. From Niska. Oh for crying out...

Jadi Goodnight smiles. Faintly. Sure, she’s been considered dead for what- Half a year? More? But she doesn’t really look worse for the experience. “Perhaps you need a drink, Miss Li. Before you do something regrettable.” And lifts an eyebrow at Kevin. “Which is better than spending more of Miss Christensen’s.”

Anastasia Christensen speaks from behind Jadi, “Why don’t any of the cute guys know how to keep their mouth shut?”

Kevin Cliffe: Well, I don’t know...

Roland Josephus moves toward the ramp, “Easy now folks.. I don’t think the lady cares much one way or the other... Like it or not.. Cap’n don’t own this ship.... She can cut it up for scrap if’n she wants.... ”

Anastasia Christensen hides behind Jadi again.

Kevin Cliffe sighs...“what do you want out of Raven? Because...oh for crying out...”

Jadi Goodnight nods approvingly. “Exactly so. This ship is an investment, with an anticipation of profit- And a -lack- of trouble. Investments perform, or they become liquidated.” She lets her glare cross each of the crew present. “Remember, that this ship represents the town. -Your- actions reflect on -us-.”

Kevin Cliffe yells at the techs trying to manhandle one of the weapon assemblies out of the bomb bay....“If you cut that, you’re going to end up with a face full of cryo-coolant! The harness is unplugged below the plasma conduit, and the coolant valve is to your LEFT!”

Roland Josephus nods slowly, “Well profit or not.. Raven is our home.... Let us see to the systems.. We’ll take ‘em offline, and get ‘em loose.. We got a vested interest in seein’ she don’t come to no harm.”

*The tech mutters something unfavorable about Kevin’s mother, before doing a double-take. Another dirty glare follows, and he -does- take the advice.*

Xiao Li: Yeah, well, that cuts both ways, don’t it? If the owner never pays any attention to her prop’rty, what does that say about her?

Kevin Cliffe: And if it says something about the town, then we can say that we stick together and we don’t leave our people to the dogs.

Anastasia Christensen points to Li Mei, “That girl over there, where did she come from? I don’t remember her ever being around.”

Xiao Li: See? SEE? You don’t even know who the gorram crew is!

Li Mei smiles, “My name is Li Mei. I am leasing one of the shuttles on your ship.”

Kevin Cliffe is glad that Li Mei chose to speak for herself...

Anastasia Christensen looks over to Alycia with a chuckle, “Oh I have been paying attention alright. Though what you do out in the black and don’t report to me hmmm, I can only get bits and pieces of. What I have heard I don’t like one bit.”

Jadi Goodnight smiles thinly. “You seem to misunderstand the reputation we are aiming for with this town. I trust you are familiar with the term, ‘free port’?”

Xiao Li: Funny. You never thought to mention that to US ‘til now.

Li Mei glares at Jadi, “Are you referring to my business?”

Anastasia Christensen burst out in laughter, “Why there are lots of things I don’t mention to you. Why should I?”

Kevin Cliffe: Roland, can you see that the guys working on the dorsal hardware can tell a wiring harness from a coolant line? I don’t think it’d help if they froze their faces off...

Xiao Li: Uh, because you’re our boss? In theory, at least.

Anastasia Christensen knods, “Yes I am your boss, you should report to me not me to you.”

Jadi Goodnight looks over at Li Mei slowly. “And which business would -that- be, Miss Mei?”

Roland Josephus: Well I offered to take it loose for ‘em.. If’n he cant’ figure it out... Well.. He looked like he had a fair set of tools....

Xiao Li: Why the tian xiao de are you HELPIN’ these guys, Kev?

Kevin Cliffe: Ever seen what coolant can do to human flesh?

Xiao Li: An’ that’s our problem how? This ain’t OUR ship, remember?

Kevin Cliffe: I put a lot of work into those weapons, Xiao. Sabrina and I both put this ship back together. So pardon me.

Li Mei smiles sweetly, “My business is just that ... my business. But rest assured, none of it is conducted in this town.”

Jadi Goodnight smiles back, thinly. “Just see that if your business attracts attention of the undesirable sort- For example, Alliance, or double-crossing an employer- That it -doesn’t- reach town.”

Li Mei chuckles, “I do not do business with undesirable sorts. Ever.”

Anastasia Christensen looks over to Li Mei, “If you are on this boat then it does become my business.”

Xiao Li glares at Jadi and Ana. “Then maybe you shouldn’t be on this ship, Li.”

Li Mei looks over to Ana. then back to Xioa Li, “I can speak for myself, thank you. And as far as my business being your business, I agree, which is why I pay rent.”

Roland Josephus lets out a long breath, “Alright folks.… Lets step back here.” He nods to Jadi, and Ana, “They’s jest lookin’ after their money.. Raven ain’t home to ‘em like she is us.” He steps forward, “We been on the ragged edge here lately... The black will jest plumb make a person crazy.. Reckon we need some land time, and some alcohol..... We free to get ‘er back in flyin’ shape and take the gig comes our way?”

Jadi Goodnight: “Good.” Dropping that matter, she looks over at the ship’s techies. “If you can expedite the process, by all means. And yes- Currently, we have no intention of grounding you longer than necessary.” Another of those thin, humorless smiles. “And by all means, we encourage you to find, take, and complete work in as -professional- a manner as possible.”

Kevin Cliffe: Ms. Christiensen, if it’s all the same to you, you don’t need to be speaking through your bodyguard.

Anastasia Christensen motions towards the door, “I think we should all go have a drink.” She turns back around to look at Kevin, “She over sees my interests so that I can spend time on the things I do enjoy, which isn’t metal.”

Roland Josephus shakes his head, and looks down at the deck.

Xiao Li stares at the two women for a long moment. “Fuck this. I need a drink.”

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, you can bet I do too.

Xiao Li storms off down the ramp, cursing in two languages.

Li Mei shrug, “Why not. A drink does sound good.”

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “I think you need more then a drink Mister Cliffe. Why you’re wound up tighter then an empty clock. Ya know I got just the thing for you.”

Jadi Goodnight turns slightly to watch those of the crew leave who are, and nods. “I see there is an understanding.” Not a -liking-, but really, since when has -that- been needed for business?

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah. Well, you pretty much just gutted my role out of this ship too. We’ve already got a pilot, an XO, and an engineer.

Anastasia Christensen smiles, “Well then perhaps you do need something to take your mind of things.”

Li Mei grins and mutters under her breath, “Wow ... she’s not very subtle”

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, like a bottle of single malt.

The crew and owners of Raven, make their way to the New Hoban, passing a few locals on the way.

Dui Zhang: Hrm... new load of freighter trash in town?

Elise Capalini: Doesn’t smell remotely fresh.

Jadi Goodnight casts a dubious eye on the citizens as she passes- Hey, wasn’t she on a poster?

*At the New Hoban*

Anastasia Christensen: You know this ain’t something I wanted to do. I hate unpleasantness.

Roland Josephus picks up the first shot glass he can find, and tosses down its contents without looking.

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah well, buying back our pilot from Niska isn’t exactly a fun time either.

Xiao Li orders the biggest, most potent drink on the menu, and sits nursing it, looking at no one.

Li Mei orders a cup of green tea.

Jadi Goodnight takes up her post, doing her ‘usual’ job- Keeping an eye out for unauthorized trouble.

Anastasia Christensen: tsk tsk, Now how in the world did you ever get yourself into that mess? why I’d think the least you could do is keep your own crew from being stolen.

Kevin Cliffe: Oh, I don’t know, maybe it’s because we were trying to do the right thing?

Anastasia Christensen smirks, “Well the right thing always has a price tag.”

Kevin Cliffe: You think I don’t know that?

Roland Josephus doesn’t say anything, and tips a nearby bottle into his glass.

Li Mei laughs, “It also helps to do the right thing with the right people ... not the wrong ones.”

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, well, Raven’s got no need for a tac guy.

Anastasia Christensen points to Li Mei, “I may like her after all. She seems to have some smarts about her.”

Xiao Li just grunts.

Roland Josephus empties his glass and sets it back on the bar.

Li Mei smiles, “Thank you. The guild is not in the habit of allowing people without brains to be a member.”

Anastasia Christensen smirks, “The guild huh... you know you could make much more money without them.”

Kevin Cliffe sighs...he wouldn’t insult a companion like that at all.

Anastasia Christensen looks over at Kevin, “Is something wrong Mister Cliffe?”

Li Mei frowns a bit, “I doubt I could do better than the guild.”

Anastasia Christensen smirks, “Oh I beg to differ. One can do very well if they are willing to take the chance. To each their own though.”

Li Mei: Besides, there are other benefits to being a guild member.

Anastasia Christensen eyes Li Mei, “Oh I am well aware of the guild and what it offers and what it doesn’t.”


Li Mei takes a sip of her tea, the looks back at Ana, “Oh? You are familiar with the guild?”

Kevin Cliffe looks at Anastasia... she just tore out the parts that made him matter on that ship as part of the crew and she asks “what’s wrong?” He turns back to his drink

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “I am very familiar with the Guild Miss Mei. Though have chosen a path I find much more to my liking.”

Rae Overholt walks up and peers around, keeping her face blank at the appearance of Jadi.

Jadi Goodnight smiles thinly at Rae- Oh, a greeting? It vanishes clear off her face when she speaks, though. “Captain Overholt- We need to talk.”

Dui Zhang swaggers in to the Hoban, headed towards a table with a view.

Roland Josephus looks up from the bar, and glances over to Rae, “Cap’n.”

Xiao Li grumps over her drink, not bothering to look up upon hearing Rae.

Rae Overholt nods at Roland,“Evenin.”

Elise Capalini studies her nails and wonders if she’ll meet her next column deadline.… surely there’s a story somewhere here...

Kevin Cliffe: Cap’n.

Li Mei smiles at Ana, “We each must choose the path that is best for us. I hope we have both chosen wisely.”

Anastasia Christensen moves over towards the bar to get a glass of wine, “I have no doubt I have. Can you say the same Miss Lei?”

Li Mei’s smile fades briefly, then returns, maybe a bit less than before, “I believe I can.”

Anastasia Christensen takes a sip of her wine as she eyes Li Mei, “Well then that is what counts. Though if you ever decide to take a different path, you know where to find me.”

Li Mei: I do Miss Ana ... thank you.

Jadi Goodnight a-hem-s. “-Captain- Overholt.” She’s looking impatient.

Roland Josephus glances over to Jadi, and back to the Captain.

Rae Overholt lets out an inaudible sigh and turns to Jadi, “Yeah, that’d be me.”

Xiao Li, it should perhaps be noted, didn’t bother to put on gloves or a jacket when she got up, so her slave brand is clearly visible.

Kevin Cliffe: You know...Xiao...maybe the doc can remove that?

Xiao Li looks up belatedly, finally realizing she’s being addressed. “Hm?”

Kevin Cliffe nods at the brand. “that mark.”

Xiao Li: What of it?

Kevin Cliffe: Just saying...the doc could probably take it off.

Jadi Goodnight smiles thinly. “You could at least -pretend- to remember me, Captain. Though I would prefer it if our deals, if nothing else, remained in your mind.” She gestures towards a door behind the bar. “Privacy may be best for what needs to be said.”

Roland Josephus reaches back to the bar for another drink.

Xiao Li: An’ you really think that’ll stop Wallace from comin’ after me again?

Kevin Cliffe: No. Maybe I should go out, find him, and put a bullet in his head.

Xiao Li: ...not so sure that’d do any good either.

Rae Overholt: I’m a little dealed out lately Jadi. The only deal I’d like right now is a drink.

Jadi Goodnight drops her pretense of a smile. “I’m well aware of that, Captain. This wasn’t a request.” She shoots a Look at Kevin’s back, on overhearing a bit of conversation, then transfers it back to Rae.

Rae Overholt: Fine then. Lead on.

Jadi heads towards a back room behind the bar, and holds the door for Rae.

Rae Overholt enters, turns to face Jadi and keeps a wary hand on her waist.

Jadi Goodnight closes the door behind Rae, muffling the voices inside. If someone were to deliberately eavesdrop, they might be able to make it out...

Rae Overholt hopes Xiao Li is enough of her old self to do her job and snoop.

Jadi Goodnight: Now, Captain... There’s a certain matter of profits to be discussed. The lack of, more precisely.

Rae Overholt crosses her arms. “We’ve kept her flying and we’ve kept food in the pantry. Thats the best we could do with the convicts we’ve worked with lately.”

Jadi Goodnight “ah-hmms” slowly. “What -I- have heard has been something different. Crossing certain employers, failing to deliver the goods as advertised- A reputation is a valuable thing, Captain Overholt.”

Rae Overholt: Well guess you heard wrong. They all got the goods they asked for.

Jadi Goodnight doesn’t sound particularly amused. “Indeed. Perhaps it’s time you tell me some stories, Captain. It would only be,” the corner of her mouth twitches. “Fair.”

Rae Overholt: What particular story you wantin’ to hear Jadi?

Jadi Goodnight: Hmm. Perhaps the one where a passenger was to be delivered, intact, to an arranged wedding. And where the groom failed to receive his intended, with rumors of aid from the delivering ship, based out of Washburne?

Rae Overholt: I’m afraid you’re mistaken, only an idiot would have aided that snotty woman in running off with that rat bastard Anton. Right under the groom’s nose. He got his bride. We shook hands on it and he sent us for some R&R. Not my problem he couldn’t keep her.

Jadi Goodnight ah-hmms. “And the rumors of certain accounts being, what was the term...” She rolls her eyes up as she remembers it. “‘Scoured’, I believe my report said. Shortly after this certain ship departed.”

Rae Overholt: “Guess that girls uncle shouldn’t have trusted Anton as much as he did should he? Does it look like we got the money?” She gives her a wry look, annoyed at this line of questioning from the absent Jadi, figuring if she dislikes her actions she can have her firefly back.

Jadi Goodnight smiles thinly. “Truth does not concern me, Captain. Reputation has very little bearing on facts.” She looks Rae in the eyes. “Perhaps more recently, then, hmm? Where the Raven has been -directly- connected with theft from a certain Mister Wallace.” Pause. She gets a -distinctly- irritated expression. “Who is, might I add, a not inconsiderable business partner of certain establishments here.”

Rae Overholt: That so Jadi? Didn’t realize you’d be consorting with slavers considering you were one yourself. Slave that is.

Jadi Goodnight goes silent, and -stares- at Rae. In a particularly low voice. “I do not know where you gained that particular piece of information, but I would recommend you distrust it in the future.” There’s an odd little tick at the corner of one eye...

Rae Overholt: “Uh huh.” She smiles, almost chipper, “Sure thing Jadi.”

Jadi Goodnight clenches and unclenches her right hand, silvery eyes boring into Rae. “The issue at hand, -Captain- is not my past.” Her voice is tight, holding back something that should probably -stay- held back. “I would -recommend- your concern remain with your future.”

Rae Overholt nods again, still smiling, “Point taken. So you got a job for us or you taking us off ship and sticking on another crew?”

Jadi Goodnight: “Do not tempt me, Captain.” She regains control enough to smile back humorlessly. “Remember that as the Raven represents this town, -you- represent the Raven. And after certain... ‘heroics’,” her mouth twitches at the word, “I am disinclined to trust some of our more delicate jobs to yourself or your crew. As are -many- of my contacts who would otherwise be providing such work.”

Rae Overholt crosses her arms, “Well now Jadi, I can’t be blamed when unsavory folks have someone turn on them. Folks are unsavory enough its bound to happen sooner or later. I can’t control that. I also can’t control if it seems we got bad timing and folks like to use us as scapegoats.”

Jadi Goodnight: “Never the less, Captain. The Raven was -intended- to show a certain amount of profit, and be a reliable agent for the town. If it cannot...” Another of those not-a-smiles. “- Well, Mister Wallace will not attempt anything while you remain flying under our name. But he has also extended an attractive monetary offer.” Her face goes hard again. “You do not want me to take him up on that offer, Captain. See to it that you and your crew are worth more in our employ than as cargo.”

Rae Overholt: Well, I’d hate it to come to that myself Jadi.

Jadi Goodnight smiles again. “So, do we have an understanding?”

Rae Overholt: “I reckon you could say that.” She nods and walks past Jadi, intending to leave.

Jadi Goodnight steps aside, letting her.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Dui Zhang mumbles quietly at the table with Elise, looking back over her shoulder on occasion at the spacers that occupy the bar.

Anastasia Christensen looks over to Roland who is standing next to her, “How about you? Have you chosen wisely?”

Roland Josephus glances up, at the question, and shrugs, “Ask me tomorrow.” He lifts his glass to drink , “Don’t seem so right now.”

Li Mei takes another sip of her tea, lost in thought

Elise Capalini leans toward Dui, then points behind her shoulder. “Wanna arm wrestle?”

Dui Zhang headshakes, “Not really... I feel like the reavers got me and et all the good parts. I still gotta shake this damn bug.”

Anastasia Christensen shrugs, “I guess the cat has his tongue.” She looks over her shoulder at the footsteps, “Why evening Mister Juran.”

Kevin Cliffe: You gonna eavesdrop on ‘em, Xiao?

Xiao Li smirks at Kevin and tapps her earpiece.

Sanpierre Juran: Good evening, Ana. Quiet group tonight.

Li Mei looks over at the well dressed gentleman at the bar, “Good evening, Sir. You look a bit well dressed for this establishment.”

Sanpierre Juran shrugs. “When it’s the only establishment in town, there’s no place else to go no matter how you’re dressed.”

Li Mei nods, “My name is Li Mei. And you are ...?”

Dui Zhang pulls out a small pair of dice and begins to play. She shakes them in one hand and tosses ‘em out on the table before Elise. “Fives . The point is five”

Sanpierre Juran takes another look back at the woman who addressed him. “You, on the other hand, are not only better dressed than we usually see here, but an entirely unexpected class of patron altogether.”

Roland Josephus grunts, and takes his glass, moving out from the middle of the conversation.

Sanpierre Juran belatedly extends a hand. “My deepest apologies, Ms. Li. I should have introduced myself earlier. Sanpierre Juran, I’m a local businessman, or I should say, a businessman with local dealings.”

Li Mei takes Sanpierre’s hand, squeezing it gently, “It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr. Juran.”

Sanpierre Juran notes the strength under Mei’s light touch. “An honor to make your acquaintance, Ms. Li.”

Li Mei looks around the bar before returning her gaze to Mr. Juran, “And what sort of business are you in, Mr. Juran?”

Dui Zhang chuckles, “Alright.... alright... I’ll teach. We’ll play for drinks.” She slides the dice closer to Elise and begins to explain the rules of the game with a gleam in her eye.

Roland Josephus lifts his glass to drink.

Sanpierre Juran smiles at Ms. Li. “Very pedestrian sorts of things. Hauling. Clean-ups. A little bit of environmental restoration. I have teams that do all the work, and I mainly take meetings and make small talk.”

Li Mei nods at Mr. Juran, “Environmental restoration? That sounds like a euphemism.”

Dui Zhang takes the dice up again, blowing across them for luck before giving them a fling. “C’mon five!”

Sanpierre Juran ‘s eyes travel unbidden up the slit in Mei’s dress. “Oh, it’s hardly a euphemism. Environments get damaged. There are all kinds of reasons. When they do, someone often needs them taken care of...and the more quickly, the better.”

Xiao Li , listening in on her comm, suddenly goes pale. “Wo de tian a...”

Sanpierre Juran’s ears perk up, hearing talk of a fellow ex-slave...but he stops himself from turning around.

Roland Josephus picks up his glass, and looks at it carefully, “Anyone remember where we parked?”

Kevin Cliffe: What, what is it?

Li Mei notices the direction of Mr. Juran’s gaze and smiles, taking another sip of her tea.

Xiao Li hisses to Kevin, “Wallace.”

Dui Zhang points to the high dice, it’s five dimples filled with black facing upwards to the sky. “I win, of course.”

Kevin Cliffe lowers his voice...“what about him?”

Xiao Li whispes, “He’s got business interests here.”

Roland Josephus shrugs, “I guess not.” He empties his glass.

Kevin Cliffe: Ta ma de...

Li Mei looks up from her tea in Ana’s direction, “Miss Ana? How has your business been lately? Other than the ship, of course.”

Sanpierre Juran realizes drink has made him incautious, and orders an espresso. “I’m sure my line of work must seem extremely dull to either of you two ladies.” He glances at Ana. “Other than the ship? Obviously I’ve been out of touch.”

Kevin Cliffe mutters...“He comes near you, me, or Raven again, and he’ll have business with the next life.”

Xiao Li clenches her drink tightly and fights to control her breathing. Trapped on this moon with no transport and Wallace’s people are here...

Li Mei looks back at Mr. Juran, “No, not at all, Mr. Juran. I find your line of work fascinating ... if a bit cryptic.”

Sanpierre Juran smiles back at her. “You’re flattering me, and I appreciate it! I get so little of it here. And if I’m cryptic, it’s only in order to sound a little more interesting and mysterious. You’ll humor me for that, won’t you?”

Dui Zhang sinks in disappointment. “Eh. You lucked out anyway. I need to be takin’ care of some business anyhow.”

Li Mei laughs, “Of course, Mr. Juran.”

Sanpierre Juran nods at her. “You have all the charm and graciousness of your profession. And a good deal more that comes naturally, I’m sure.”

Kevin Cliffe: “You stay calm, Xiao. We’re not letting him take you again.” He realizes that said, they didn’t let him take her the last time, either... his agent had to gas them all and screw with their nav board.

Li Mei grins, “Now you flatter me, Mr. Juran. Feel free to do that all evening.”

Xiao Li takes another gulp of her drink, perhaps to steady herself.

Sanpierre Juran cocks an eyebrow. “*All* evening? I can’t believe a woman such as yourself can have an opening that large on her social calendar for months and months.” He adds. “clearly you must be very selective in your choice of engagements.”

Li Mei shrugs, “Under normal circumstances, that might be true. Lately, however, it seems my circumstances have been... unpredictable.”

Kevin Cliffe keeps his voice low. “You packing, Xiao?”

Xiao Li: I can’t shoot for shit, remember?

Kevin Cliffe: Ta ma de. We’ll have to rectify that, won’t we?

Sanpierre Juran notes a change in Mei’s tone and decides to keep the conversation light. “We all experience unpredictability...I know it as well as most. But that only means your luck can change for the better.”

Li Mei mutters under her breath, “It sure as hell can’t get any worse.”

Sanpierre Juran lowers his eyes and his voice. “I know I was meant to hear that, Ms. Li. Though we’re strangers, I’d like to know if there’s any way in which I can be of help to you.”

Li Mei looks up a little sheepishly, seemingly a little embarrassed, “I appreciate the offer, Mr. Juran. I will be fine. I was just hoping that the Raven would be good for my ... business. And so far, it has not worked out that way.”

Xiao Li: Ni tamade tianxia suoyou de ren dou gaisi.... We gotta get out of here. Permanent-like.

Kevin Cliffe: Xiao, what did she say?

Xiao Li: That if we don’t turn a profit as crew, we’re gonna be cargo.

Kevin Cliffe slams his glass down on the bartop...then, takes some breaths to get himself under control. He lowers his voice...“you know, I wonder if we can get her, Wallace, and Niska all on the same skyplex before we blew it up?”

Anastasia Christensen can’t help but over hear the conversation between San and Li Mei, “Then I suppose all your decisions have not be fruitful.”

Li Mei nods, “No, they haven’t. But I’m sure not every business decision you’ve made has turned out as you had hoped.” and Li Mei looks around at the crew.

Sanpierre Juran smiles at Mei. “Whatever the situation with the Raven, I’m certain it can’t keep a woman like you down for long. I have full confidence that things will change soon. Yet I wonder why you yourself are not taking a more active hand in changing them, if they are not to your liking. Something about the situation must suit you.” He glances sidelong at Ana. He knows she has her sources of information. He wonders what they say.

Anastasia Christensen chuckles, “Or maybe they just appear to not be as I want them Miss Mei.”

Li Mei raises an eyebrow at Ana’s last comment, “Maybe I have underestimated you.”

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “You wouldn’t be the first person to have done so Miss Mei.”

Li Mei nods, “That I believe. And please, call me Li.”

Sanpierre Juran turns his attention from the women to his drink. He doesn’t know what Madame Ana has against Li Mei, but he knows he’d rather stay clear of it. Nobody needs extra hornet’s nests.

Roland Josephus blinks several times, and looks over to Kevin. He pulls a bottle away from the man putting his arm around it, and looking at the man indignantly.

Xiao Li: I’ll settle for getting us all outta here ‘fore Jadi decides that ‘cargo’ option is worth exploring.

Roland Josephus: “Can’t go nowhere.. They’s guttin’ the Raven as we speak.”

Xiao Li looks grim. “More than one ship in port right now...”

Kevin Cliffe: If worse comes to worse, I’ll raid the junkyard for a hulk and make it gorram fly.

Sanpierre Juran sips, and cocks an ear towards the crew. He knows a little about salvage himself.

Roland Josephus looks up at the Captain comes back out.

Jadi Goodnight nods. “Good. Spaceport technicians are taking certain components that do not officially exist from the Raven, to be repurposed for defense of the town. Estimates are you will be down for between a few days to a week. Mister Cliffe will give you the details.”

Rae Overholt looks to Xiao Li, catching her eye before turning to Roland and giving a “carefree” smile.

Xiao Li nods grimly at Rae.

Roland Josephus turns his attention back to his drink.

Rae Overholt: So Kevin, what are we losing?

Kevin Cliffe lowers his voice and leans in towards the captain...“main weaponry.”

Xiao Li wraps her arms tightly around herself, hiding her slave brand from view

Rae Overholt: Anything else?

Kevin Cliffe: Didn’t stick around, and I don’t think I could have done much if we did. Sounds like she’s got our hands tied.

Anastasia Christensen, “Very well then Li it is. You may call me Ana.”

Li Mei smiles, “Thank you, Ana.”

Kevin Cliffe: Cap’n...I dunno what’s up. But she just yanked out probably my job on Raven.

Rae Overholt: So we don’t know what all we might be missing.

Roland Josephus: We won’t know till we get back there Cap’n.. If’n they’re careful might be a couple of days before we can lift off.. If’n they jest ripped it out... We could be here a month or more.

Kevin Cliffe keeps his voice low...“ain’t much use for a tac officer without ordinance.”

Xiao Li: You want my advice? Next time we take off from here, we don’t come back. At all.

Rae Overholt: We still got guns and suits and things need taking care of Kevin.

Sanpierre Juran silently calculates the pros and cons of a Raven-less Washtown. More cons than pros, but he’s made the best of bad situations before.

Kevin Cliffe: You also got an engineer, a pilot, and an XO. I’m pretty much redundant.

Anastasia Christensen smirks, “If your stuck here for awhile Li, why I could let you stay in a spare room over at the ranch if you have a mind to.”

Li Mei grins, “That might be nice, Ana, assuming I don’t have to -pay- for that room by doing any ... work.”

Anastasia Christensen catches bits and pieces of the conversation going on behind her, “I’d advise you not to go making any hasty decisions where the ship is concerned.”

Rae Overholt turns to face Kevin. “I got some crew yeah, I lost more crew than I got. You saying you’re leaving then do it and get it over with. If not shut up and deal with what we got handed to us. Dong ma? Cause I’m not in the mood for whinin’. I lost just as much as you on this run.” She looks around as if making the point there’s no Gabe there anymore.

Anastasia Christensen laughs at Li’s words, “I’d not think of soiling your reputation nor mine with having you work in my establishment. You would be my guest.”

Roland Josephus crosses his arms across his chest, and glances down at the ground.

Xiao Li leans close to Rae. “Cap’n... if we *don’t* leave here for good, you might be losin’ me, too. Safer for everyone that way.”

Rae Overholt gives Xiao Li a glare.

Kevin Cliffe: I’m not holding to anyone getting snatched again. That’s just me. Maybe it’s my usual gun-happy solution but if I see Wallace again...

Sanpierre Juran gives Ana a warm glance while saying to Mei, “when Ana offers hospitality, I promise you there is none finer to be had, nor more honestly offered.”

Li Mei laughs, “I didn’t think so, Ana, but I don’t have a good record lately of knowing what I’m getting myself into, so I wanted to be certain. I’d be honored to be your guest for however long we’re here.” She looks over at Mr. Juran, “I’m sure that’s true, Mr. Juran.”

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “Understood, the bedroom downstairs is all yours if you wish to take it while your land locked. Just tell one of the boys what you need from the ship and they would be more then happy to fetch it for you.”

Li Mei: Thank you, Ana, I will.

Xiao Li: What, you’d rather I stay here and put y’all at risk with the bounty on my head?

Rae Overholt shakes her head and resists the urge to storm off.

Kevin Cliffe: Xiao, I’m a gorram fugitive from the core. No bounty, just kill me and everyone who’s seen me. I ain’t running anymore. And we need you to check out the helm. Cap’n, by your leave, I’d like to take Roland and do a rundown of the ship’s systems. See if we still have feathers in Raven’s wings.

Xiao Li: Gorramit, I--I *care* about you. An’ everyone else on this crew. I don’t wanna see you hurt or worse ‘cuz of me.

Rae Overholt: Go on then. Well Xiao Li, guess we care too and you’re stuck with us.

Kevin Cliffe: We’re don’t leave our people behind.

Anastasia Christensen looks over at the crew in the cluster, “They ain’t a bad lot, you coulda’ done worse.”

Roland Josephus turns back to the bar, and grabs a bottle of clear liquid, “All this excitement.. Ain’t sure I can stand it..” He nods over to Kevin.. “Alright lets see what they did to ‘er.”

Li Mei nods, “They have good hearts, I only meant that, so far, my decision has not been beneficial to my business.”

Kevin Cliffe: Let’s get moving, we’ve got a ship to get up to spec.

Rae Overholt: Good luck with it Rol.

Roland Josephus: I’ll work for free for a year if you let me choke him.. Just for a little while....

Rae Overholt whispers as they walk off, “I’d pay you triple for a year to choke him”

Kevin Cliffe: Xiao, you coming?

Xiao Li: ...you’re a stubborn pofu, y’know that, Cap’n?

Rae Overholt: “Get your pigu to that ship Kevin, you ordered folks round you be there with ‘um.” She glances at Xiao Li, “Must be to put up with you this long Xiao li, be thankful.”

Xiao Li nods and hurries after Kevin.

Anastasia Christensen smiles at the two left at the bar, “Well if you both will excuse me. I’ll go see that the room is up to standard incase Miss Li decides to come stay a night or so.”

Rae Overholt reaches around, grabs a bottle of clear liquid and slaps the last of her dwindling cred supply on the counter. Not concerned at this point how she’ll eat tomorrow, just determined to drown out the regrets and solitude for the time being as she turns and storms off.

Sanpierre Juran grins. “Come now, Ana. Would your rooms ever _not_ be up to standard?” He turns his head to watch the captain go.

Anastasia Christensen laughs, “Well that room hasn’t been used... at least not in the last few hours.”

Li Mei smiles, “Thank you, Ana, and I will be staying, until the Raven is ready to leave.”

Sanpierre Juran: Then I suppose I should leave the two of you to get settled.