I was hoping to enquire about renting one of your shuttles.

Kevin Cliffe: Anyway, Roland, the captain says I can show you the cool stuff...which is probably necessary given that you might find it anyway.

Shen Jiutai looks a little grumpy, "I hope I don't have to cook for it or nothing, But if it eats the rats, instead of you usin’ my galley to cook ‘um, I guess I like him..."

Kevin Cliffe: Well hopefully we'll run out of rats.

Roland Josephus arches an eyebrow, "Well sounds like somethin’ else I'll have to fix... You better show me then."

Kevin Cliffe: “I hope not, but, better you know about it. I'll give you the specs as soon as I can.” He pulls up a floor panel, revealing a conduit that's not part of the standard firefly design...slightly thinner than the plasma conduits that would feed the turbines port and starboard.

Xiao Li idly scratches Nigel behind the ears.

Kevin Cliffe: That is the ventral feeder conduit for a set of 10mm paired rotary barrel plasma cannons.

Roland Josephus nods slowly, 'How are they cooled?"

Kevin Cliffe: I put a few mods on the coolant compressor, so it uses the same lines as the reactor core magnets.

Kevin Cliffe: There's a second conduit for the cannons on the dorsal side.

Roland Josephus: "That means the reactor is going to run hot if you fire them up... Less coolant, plus that line is liable to heat up, and it runs next to the coolant lines...Who put it in?

Kevin Cliffe: Sabrina and I did. And the system's set up to increase coolant flow. The reactor ramps up too to produce more plasma and feed more power, so the guns will work and the turbines don't lag. Xiao rewrote the software and we checked the arming process, no problems.

Roland Josephus kneels down, and looks at the conduit, and shakes his head, "I don't like it hooked to the reactor lines......I guess we could insulate those two lines, and see about getting a bigger coolant reservoir....

Kevin Cliffe: That'd be a good idea. The fact that it runs as is means that doing that would give us a better safety margin.

Shen Jiutai relaxes into her seat and looks to Xiao Li, "So, anything exciting happen while I was stuck on Meridian?"

Xiao Li: Other than an asshole passenger pullin' out the compression coil and leavin' us driftin' for a day an' a half, you mean?

Shen Jiutai looks up in suprise, "Passengers? On the drift? Sounds like perhaps bein' stuck with a grumpy Sabrina wasn't all that bad..…”

Xiao Li: I still think we shoulda killed that hun dan when we had a chance.

Shen Jiutai: And who exactly was this Hu-dan?

Xiao Li: Fella name of Anton Machin. Escorting Xeno's niece off to an arranged marriage on Newhall.

Shen Jiutai looks ashamed, "Oh, you met Xeno and Anton, I guess I must have left you guys with some unfinished business."

Xiao Li raises an eyebrow. "You could say that."

Kevin Cliffe: Anyway the weapons are concealed when not in use.

Roland Josephus: "What it means is... if you guys up front have to fire those guns... The coolant system for the reactor won't blow up, and kill us all with a containment breach.”

Kevin Cliffe: This is a tokomak type core, it won't blow unless you deliberately make it blow. But yeah...the system's tested and hasn't blown us up. There are a set of blow-vents for the conduits, just in case.

Roland lets out a long breath, and thinks for a moment, "Alright I can get the lines insulated without a problem... Think you can fabricate a tank big enough to hold the extra we'll need?"

Kevin Cliffe: Something that big isn't easily fabricated...I can salvage something, and maybe we can hide the extra line to make it look like spare fuel.

Roland Josephus shrugs, "Doesn't much matter.. If they know what to look for.. It won't fool 'em, and if they don't.. They won't know what they're looking at."

Shen Jiutai blushes and finds the buckle on her jacket very interesting, "I reckon I owe you all some apologies."

Xiao Li: I reckon you do.

Shen Jiutai stops fiddling and looks up, "I guess I was only thinking about myself." She pauses, "I'm sorry. I'll try to make it up to you somehow."

Xiao Li just nods, gazing levelly at Shen.

Kevin Cliffe: Oh, you haven't seen the neatest part yet. Full suite of sensors, plus extras, enough for targeting and...some neat tricks. And yeah, they might find it IF they knew what to look for. Heh heh heh... Under here... are the extra breakers, so if we do need to cut power to the special hardware, we have the main, dorsal, ventral, and thermoptic buses... Here, I'll show you the other neat thing.

Roland Josephus rubs his chin, "Hmmm Well .. I can set some relays....Run the controls circuits through the buss... If you get it programed... You can turn it off from a console.

Shen Jiutai diverts her eyes, "This boat, and this crew... I thought it was just Sabrina, but it's not... after being on Meridian for all of those weeks, well, I don't know how to say this, but I feel like I've finally come home again."

Kevin Cliffe: That much we've got worked out already, right Xiao? The control systems?

Xiao Li: Most of it, yeah.

Kevin Cliffe reaches up under a panel and pushes a button, flipping some holograms into existence over the display...the copilot's chair now seems more like fire control. He then lifts up a floor panel... “A second Quan-Tec mainframe. Just like the one the nav computer uses. Except this one is dedicated. It's the nerve center for a thermal-optical active camouflage system.”

Roland: "And I guess thats hooked to the reactor as well.

Kevin Cliffe: Nope. Standard power draw.

Roland: What kind of power usage are we talking about?

Kevin Cliffe: Well, the draw is usually low, 500 watts. When we run it, we turn on the emergency lighting instead. The emergency lighting draws less power, but more importantly, it's easier for the camo to work with.

Roland: 500 watts to hide a whole ship?

Kevin Cliffe: Yep. It's basically a wraparound hologram...two, actually. One in the visible spectrum, the other in infrared. Under the right conditions we're really hard to find.

Roland Josephus nods, "As long as they dont' scan us..."

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah. That's the big problem. I'm thinking about trying to make an active jamming system...but the problem with that is it makes too much noise.

Roland Josephus nods might as well hang a sign out that says, "Here we are" if you try jamming.

Kevin Cliffe: “If they use active scanning, we have to really hope they don't point it in our direction. And what's worse, the fed operators are well-trained. I'd like to try to avoid running the active camo around them. They might still pick up trace emissions from the reactor. But if we're far enough away, we can drift by. Outside of the feds, we don't need to worry. Pirates, Reavers, crime syndicates...” He turns off the fire control systems, and it looks just like a copilot's console all over again.

Roland: Prolly be better to shut down, and make like a hole in space... less you move the better... The less the computer has to adjust the hologram for what’s behind you.

Kevin Cliffe: Exactly. Drifting at constant velocity, it can easily handle. Standing still, it can easily handle. Slow maneuvers, we blur a little. If we're jinking, running with engines hot, we blur a lot. And if we use the guns, the system can't hide the muzzle flare. The weapons we have could put a hole in an alliance cruiser, but that same cruiser could then gut us stem to stern in a heartbeat with a plasma projection tube.

Roland Josephus shakes his head, "Be like throwing a turnip at a tank..."

Kevin Cliffe: Not really. Like I said, the guns are effective. Just that the alliance has weapons that are MORE effective, and they have ships full of people trained to use them. I'm almost worried you haven't asked the obvious question.

Roland Josephus shrugs, "What’s that?"

Kevin Cliffe: How I know all this.

Roland: Well that ain’t really any of my business.. Somethings it’s better I don't know.

Kevin Cliffe: Most of the rest of the crew knows already. But I won't force it on you.

Roland Josephus nods.

Kevin Cliffe: Let's just say there are things that I'm not too proud of, and one day I decided I'd had enough, and that's why I'm here.

Roland: Why yer here ain't none of my concern either.. Don't monkey around with the engines or the reactor, and we'll get along fine.

Kevin Cliffe: Hey, I don't monkey around with the things that keep me breathin' out in the black. I helped keep 'em running once or twice. But they're your engines now, and you don't need me stickin' an extra hand in where it won't do any help. So we're cool.

Roland Josephus nods, 'Good."

Kevin Cliffe: And I think it'd be better if we both work on the weapons where it concerns the feeders, because we're going to need to stay on the same page, right?

Roland Josephus nods, "Well I need to know what kind of power drain all these extra systems will have... I don't much care about guns, or holograms, or sensors.. I care about CO2 scrubbers, and reactor containments, and little stuff that keeps us breathin’…”

Kevin Cliffe: If you've got a cortex reader, I'll run a copy of the stats.

Roland: You guys run a full load test on all of it?

Kevin Cliffe: Yep, though we may need to do one again. It's been a while.

Roland Josephus nods, 'Well landing pad on an alliance controlled work prolly ain't the best place to start one."

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, particularly if the test doesn't repeat the results of the last one. Last one ran fine. If the blow-vents trigger top and bottom and they decide to get anal...

Roland Josephus nods, and glances around, "Any other nasty surprises thats going to throw my specs off?"

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah. The rats. Always the rats. Although now that we have a cat that should be taken care of. We have, or had, a nest of rats in the works somewhere. We lately insulated and sealed off as much of the soft spots as possible. The feeders, both the weapon and the turbine feeders, are sealed, but the little bastards keep finding SOMETHING to chew on. Hence the cat. He's already bagged a few.

Roland Josephus: Goram rats? Can't you spray or something?

Kevin Cliffe: We tried that. Hell, I think we even tried opening the ship up in hard vacuum.

Roland Josephus just shakes his head.

Kevin Cliffe: At least this time we have a crew-mate that can get into the tight spaces and get the little pieces of gao se.

Roland Josephus winces, "I can't imagine."

Kevin Cliffe: The only other thing that could is a prototype that I was working on...the Patchbot. It can get into tight spaces in the event of a hull breach and detonate a foam canister, The foam expands, hardens, and plugs the hole.

Roland Josephus nods slowly.

Kevin Cliffe: Can't use it though...the foam is standard issue hull patch, but the bot still has trouble running in the tight spaces between the armor hull (just standard ship plating that keeps the micrometeors and radiation out) and pressure hull.

Roland Josephus: Temporary fix anyhow... You're still on the clock

Kevin Cliffe: Hm?

Roland Josephus: That foam will do you for awhile... But it ain't a fix.. Sooner or later.. it will fail.

Kevin Cliffe: Yeah, it's only until we hit atmo anyway. Especially if it's ventral...then we really need to ramp up the engines to offset the burn-through.

Roland Josephus nods, "Well lets hope we don't have to worry about that."

Kevin Cliffe: Always good to think ahead, though.

Roland Josephus nods, 'Ayup."

Kevin Cliffe: Ah well. Well, if you need any parts machined I can see what I can do. Ooh, also the ventral feeder supplies a furnace I have in my room. I'll get you the power draw on that. It's actually quite minimal, because it doesn't vent plasma, it circulates it and returns the gas to the reactor.

Roland Josephus nod slowly, "Fair enough...We're gonna need that coolant tank... Built or salvaged one."

Kevin Cliffe: I'll go raid the junkyard. Think the main compressor will give us enough push for a pressure test?

Roland Josephus: The pressure shouldn't be a problem... The extra coolant won't add enough weight to tax the pump very much... But it will give us some extra cooling for the reactor.. Just in case you get to shoot those guns.

Kevin Cliffe: Hey, like I said, we checked the weapons. The system will run on the coolant we've got if we need to. But...hey, it still makes sense.

Roland Josephus nods, 'Thats why you guys pay me."

Kevin Cliffe: That it does. 'sides, if we lose coolant, and find ourselves in a position where we need to fly AND shoot still...meh.

Roland Josephus nods, “Then we're hurtin.”

Kevin Cliffe: We lose coolant, the magnetic containment fails. Without containment, the plasma expands and loses density. No density, no fusion. No fusion, no power, everything shuts down. Not a good situation when we've got Reavers breathing down our necks...

Roland Josephus: "Well that pretty much goes without sayin..

Kevin Cliffe: Or if the coolant goes when we go to full burn...

Roland Josephus: It shouldn't... Unless something else is burning it up that I don't know about.

Kevin Cliffe: Like I said, you'll get full stats. Actually I meant more along the lines of a coolant leak, like a ruptured or damaged line.

Roland Josephus nods.

* * *

Shen Jiutai glances over to Xiao Li, "Well, I guess I'll go see about that cat food an’ litter... and I think Cap'n wanted some hot chocolate."

Xiao Li nods

Shen Jiutai: Need anything else?

Xiao Li: Nothin' comes to mind just yet. I'll let ya know.

Rae Overholt stands in the cargobay. Thinking.

Shen Jiutai nods and heads for the stairs. “Hey Cap'n, I'm headin' in to town..”

Rae Overholt nods. "What you going to get there?" She spots Xiao Li and nods. "Going to town too?"

Xiao Li shrugs. 'Might as well. It's that or listen to the boys talk shop all day.'

Rae Overholt: Anything particular you going for?

Li Mei: Excuse me, are you Captain Overholt?

Rae Overholt looks up at the fancy stranger. "I am. What can I do for ya? Needing passage somewhere?"

Xiao Li: *please* tell me you ain't got an escort.

Rae Overholt lets out a laugh and pokes Xiao LI with her elbow.

Li Mei smiles, "Yes, I was hoping to enquire about renting one of your shuttles."

Rae Overholt's eyebrows go up in surprise. "Well, haven’t rented a shuttle before. Xiao li? What's the going rate for a shuttle now days?"

Xiao Li raises an eyebrow, looking from Rae to the strange woman and back again. “I'm thinkin' maybe... 20 a week?”

Rae Overholt: Well you heard the pilot, 20 creds a week.

Li Mei frowns, appearing to run numbers through her head. “It sounds a bit steep, but I suppose it might be acceptable.” She hastens to add, "But at that rate, I would have some conditions."

Rae Overholt: What would those be? I'm not much of a tea maker myself and my crew aren't so good at being servants.

Li Mei smiles a little too sweetly and says, "I can manage brewing tea, and I have no need for servants."

Rae Overholt thinks back on their bratty passenger. "What would you like then?"

Li Mei: I only ask that none of the crew enter the shuttle, unless I invite them in, which I assure you is unlikely.

You: Well I don't have a problem with that. Don't rightly let them enter my cabin either.

Li Mei: I also need to know that I will be able to be near planets where I can conduct my business, and not be afraid that you will strand me there.

Rae Overholt gives her an odd look. "And leave one of my shuttles behind? Don't think you need to worry about that"

Li Mei nods, "I apologize, it's just that I've had some . . . unfortunate turns of events before, and I want to make sure they aren't repeated."

Rae Overholt: I imagine I can understand that. We'll do right by you. Won't we Xiao Li?

Xiao Li: If she pays we'll do right by her, sure.

Li Mei smiles, "Then does that mean we can do business"

Shen Jiutai approaches, "We takin' on a renter?"

Xiao Li: Could be.

Rae Overholt: Now, do you have anything we need to know about? No dragons after you? No Alliance? Clients gone mad?

Xiao Li: Ain't allergic to cats, are ya?

Li Mei hesitates, "No, definitely no dragons or Alliance issues. And I absolutely adore cats."

Rae Overholt: You sound a little like you're hedging. What story you leaving untold?

Li Mei looks offended, "I'm not hedging anything,"

Rae Overholt: “Alright.” She gives Xiao Li a look. “What might be your name?”

Xiao Li nods knowingly at Rae.

Li Mei: Oh, excuse me, I should have introduced myself. I'm Li Mei, And I know your name, but the rest of your crew . . .?

Rae Overholt: This here is Xiao Li, our pilot. That over there is Shen our..cook. Kevin our tactical officer and Roland our mechanic are on the ship... Gabe... he's missing today but he's my first mate.

Xiao Li: We also have a medic, at least in theory...

Li Mei bows her head slightly, "I'm pleased to meet you"

Rae Overholt: Well, the men folk might be able to help you get your things in.

Shen Jiutai looks to the Captain, "I'm goin' up the hill, I guess I could lend a hand..."

Li Mei: That would be most helpful.

Rae Overholt: Thank you Shen. Xiao Li, you up for it? I can go get the fellas? Where were you staying Li?

Li Mei: My home is just up the hill, behind the market.

Xiao Li rolls her eyes and lets out an exaggerated sigh. "I *guess* so."

Rae Overholt: Alright then. I'll be right back.

Li Mei: Thank you all so much.

Rae Overholt: Roland?

Roland Josephus grunts from behind his coffee cup, "Cap'n?"

Rae Overholt: Got a moment to help lug our new ‘what seems to be companion’s’ stuff to her shuttle? Everyone here is lending a hand.

Roland Josephus coughs, and lowers his coffee cup, "We got a companion on here? Why don't ye jest take the mule?"

Rae Overholt frowns, "knew I hired you for a reason... Still."

Li Mei nods, "That will be fine, thank you. I will see you all shortly, then."

Shen Jiutai nods.

Li Mei heads up the hill to her house.

Rae Overholt: We'll take the mule

**Xiao Li, Shen and Rae board the mule and fly up the hill to meet Li Mei at her current Washtown residence.”

Li Mei points at a large, but not huge trunk, "Most of my things are packed in this trunk. The rest I have in my bag, which I can carry"
Rae Overholt: “Okay.” ::she sighs and goes to lift a corner:: “C'mon ladies, the men chickened out on us.”

Shen Jiutai walks to the trunk and takes one end.

Li Mei grins, "Men usually do"

Shen Jiutai bends her knees and waits until the other end rises then lifts the trunk.

Rae Overholt: “He can unload it.” She looks a little less than happy as she begins to work towards the mule with the luggage.

Xiao Li is... supervising. Yeah, that's it.

Rae Overholt glares at Xiao Li as they shove the trunk onto the mule. "You get to offload as well"

Shen Jiutai heaves the trunk into the mule, "Guess I need to get to the store now."

Li Mei: I will pick up the rest of what I need the next time we're near a . . . more civilized world. I love this moon, but it lacks in shopping facilities.

Rae Overholt: See ya Shen. You need me to come back with the mule for you?

Li Mei: “That won't be necessary. I need the exercise anyway."

Rae Overholt: How about you Shen?

Shen Jiutai: Yeah, I figure I might as well lay in enough supplies to last a while in the black, you got the creds on account at the store, right?

Rae Overholt: Yeah.

Shen Jiutai: OK, then just come back in, say half an hour.

Rae Overholt nods.

Li Mei nods, "I will see you all then"

Shen Jiutai wanders off to the store.

***Rae and Xiao Li take the mule back to the spaceport as Li wanders down the path.***

Xiao Li clambers into the back of the mule to lift one end of the trunk

Li Mei hears a cat somewhere and looks around for the kitty.

Rae Overholt yells out, "ROLAND GET YOUR KEESTER DOWN HERE TO CARGO AND HELP UNLOAD"

Roland Josephus: You ain't got to hollar.. I heard ye.

Xiao Li: Where's Kevin?

Roland Josephus: Ain't my day to keep up with the man... He ran off ...something about the junk yard...

Li Mei looks at Roland, "You must be Roland. I'm Li Mei."

Roland Josephus glances over to Li Mei, and back to Rae, "Where you want all this stuff?"

Rae Overholt: Starboard shuttle.

Roland Josephus nods once, and moves toward the MULE reaching for two of the bags.

Rae Overholt: The one big trunk. Xiao Li will help as she didn’t earlier. Li can get the other.

Li Mei: Yes, thank you, I can manage this bag, it's just the trunk I need help with.

Xiao Li: Okay, Rol, you get that end, I'll get this one...

Roland Josephus shrugs, and reaches for his end of the trunk. He lifts up on the handle, and blinks a bit in surprise, before dropping his other hand to the task.

Xiao Li hauls upward with all her not-very-much might. Hey, she got hired for her brains, not her bulging biceps.

Rae Overholt chuckles.

Li Mei looks around the cargo bay, "This is nice. Much larger than it appears from the outside."

Rae Overholt: Firefly's are the best out there. Not much to look at, but they'll go forever with a good mechanic.

Roland Josephus just grunts, and hefts up on the trunk, moving toward the stairs.

Li Mei nods, "A ship is only as good as her crew."

Xiao Li: Hey hey hey slow down...

Li Mei stares at Roland's biceps, "And it looks like you have a fine crew"

Xiao Li struggles to keep her end of the trunk up.

Rae Overholt: A fine crew that was absent earlier..

Roland Josephus winces, and slows down for the woman. "Hurry up will ya.. I got a dozen things to get done before we can lift off.…”

Li Mei follows Roland and Xiao Li to the shuttle.

Rae Overholt: So, companion. Guild trained then? What brings you out here?

Li Mei stops, turns to look at the captain, "Yes, I am a member of the guild. I came out here originally because life in the core was beginning to bore me"

Xiao Li: Well if you weren't so busy gabbin' at Kevin you coulda’ done it all already...

Li Mei: "Unfortunately, locating suitable clients out here has proved more difficult than I thought."

Rae Overholt: Well, you shouldn't be bored out here.

Li Mei smiles, "I don't doubt that."

Roland Josephus just shakes his head, 'I can't help it if the man is long winded... Think you can make it up the stairs?"

Li Mei: "I need more . . . mobility, to conduct m business out here. That is why I contacted you about the shuttle."

Xiao Li eyes the stairs warily. "Think maybe you should take the bottom end for that."

Rae Overholt nods, "Sure, aughta do you good then. Make things easier for you"

Li Mei: "I certainly hope it will"

Roland Josephus slowly sets the trunk down, and nods once, "Fair enough.. Lets switch."

Rae Overholt: “For the love of Buddah.” ::she dashes up the stairs and takes hold of Xiao Li's end to give her a hand:: "Let's move on then."

Li Mei giggles at the crews struggles with the trunk, but attempts to hide the giggle.

***Somehow, they manage to wrestle the thing up to the catwalk with only minor injuries sustained***

Rae Overholt comes back down nursing a bruised shin and heading back for the mule to go get Shen.

Xiao Li limps toward the galley, muttering curses under her breath.

Roland Josephus calls after the to injured women, "… Sorry..."

Li Mei heads towards the shuttle, "If you will excuse me, I'll go unpack my things"

"Thank you Cap'n, You're the best Cap'n there is!!!"

Shen Jiutai notices a stranger enter the room, "Uh, hello..." She says tentatively.

Roland Josephus grunts a reply, and without another look at the woman, moves toward the counter, with his cup in hand.

Shen Jiutai frowns, "you must be the new wrench..."

Roland Josephus: I hope so.. Other than coffee, I can't cook for shit.…

Rae Overholt walks in and smacks Gabe on the butt.

Gabriel Keats grins, reaches behind him as he's smacked and takes her wrist

Rae Overholt grins at him, eyes mischievous.

Shen Jiutai sniffs at the pot and decides it might be worth it to try some of this stranger's coffee. She pours herself a cup, "Cap'n, what is that cat doing in the galley?"

Roland Josephus lets out a long breath, lifts his cup to drink.

Rae Overholt: Reckon it was smelling your delicious vittles.

Shen Jiutai sniffs at the coffee, "I ain't been around... and who is this mysterious coffee guy?" She decides it must be safe and takes a sip, her eyes closed, fearing the worst, "Hmm, not bad... Hi I'm Shen..."

Gabriel Keats: "Morning, Rae." He turns around and gives her a quick, sudden, hopefully surprising kiss.

Roland Josephus grunts his reply again, and lifts his cup to drink.

Rae Overholt blinks and returns his kiss, smiling brightly when he finishes. "That was a nice hello."

Gabriel Keats: "You surprise me, I surprise you."

Shen Jiutai rolls her eyes at the exchange...

Rae Overholt: I'll remember to surprise you more often.

Shen Jiutai takes another sip of her coffee, "Does this here coffee guy got a name?'

Roland Josephus looks up, and nods once, 'Ayup."

Rae Overholt: It'd be Roland.

Shen Jiutai sips her coffee, "Well at the very least you can brew a pot, even if you don't say much.… Roland, Hmm"

Gabriel Keats nods a hello at Roland.

Rae Overholt smirks at Roland. "Might help if you introduce yourself to folks what haven't met you yet."

Roland Josephus nods over to Gabriel, before looking over to Merasu, "We down for a spell Captain? Like to shut a couple of systems down and take a look see." He pauses, and shrugs, "They want to know bad enough.. They'll ask usually."

Rae Overholt laughs. "Guess so. yeah, we'll sit a spell if you need to check her out."''

Shen Jiutai fusses around the Galley, straightening the mess that a month of others cooking in her space has produced. "It's OK, Cap'n, I get it, the silent type, I kinda prefer that to some..."

Gabriel Keats: "Can ya keep a ship runnin'? Without an overabundance of drama?"


Roland Josephus looks back to Gabriel, "She'll fly true.. Keep folks out of the engine room, and let me work.. She'll be flyin’ long after we're gone."

Gabriel Keats: "Right. That's all I needed to know."

Rae Overholt shrugs one shoulder and leans on Gabe. "I'm good with that."

Shen Jiutai does a quick inventory of the food stores, "You guys must've been out there some time, practically everything is gone... I afraid I'm gonna need some creds for some food, Cap'n."

Rae Overholt: We should hae plenty of creds, that Heir fellow paid us right well to let his daughter-in-law run off with Anton.

Shen Jiutai looks up, "What? Damn! the fun I miss!"

Rae Overholt: Reckon its your come uppance for bein stupid Shen.

Shen Jiutai: “Er, who is Anton?”

Rae Overholt gives her a look. "Anton, is the fellow what works for Xeno, the boss you had us make those botched runs for."

Gabriel Keats shifts, looking at the wall.

Shen Jiutai pouts, "Ya don't have to be all insultin'... was that called for? Botched runs?"

Rae Overholt: Girl, if you didn’t cook so good, I'd give you a beat down to teach you a lesson. Yeah. Happened right as, well, never-mind. He's gone now too anyway. Anton that is. Heard he might be getting married.

Gabriel Keats: "Married? That hwun dan?"

Shen Jiutai sighs and looks down, "I reckon I owe you an apology too Cap'n..."

Rae Overholt: mmHmm. Apologize by stocking my galley.

Roland Josephus stays quiet, looking to each as they speak.
Shen Jiutai: “That ain't hardly anything... I guess I wasn't thinking about anyone but myself, and if you knew what the last month on Blackburne was like...” She trails off. “Well I guess I need to make it right by you...”

Rae Overholt shrugs it off, "Reckon you'll do what you want to do Shen. I just want to be able to eat when I'm hungry and keep my crew fed."

Shen Jiutai: I'll get us all good and provisioned, any special requests?

Rae Overholt: Chocolate? Hot chocolate?

Shen Jiutai grins at the Cap'n, "If it will make you feel better, I'll stock up that good an' proper! I even have a few special recipes for that..." She pulls out a piece of paper and starts scribbling a list, muttering to herself in Chinese.

Rae Overholt: I think I'd like that.

Gabriel Keats: "We're out of whiskey."

Shen Jiutai looks to the Cap'n after that last comment, "I thought.... Cap? Is he drinking again?"

Gabriel Keats: "I ain't the one who drank it. It was that little bantamweight child bride."

Roland Josephus clears his throat, and looks between Gabriel, and Shen, before glancing back at Merasu, "Hate to bring up credits.... There’s some parts we'd be better off to have on hand.."

Rae Overholt: Well, give me a list and tell me why we need them and I might can find the creds for it.

Roland Josephus nods once, "Fair enough."

Rae Overholt: I'm not an unreasonable woman.

Roland Josephus: "Never thought otherwise Cap'n.. Nothin’ fancy... Jest some parts to keep up safe out in the black.

Rae Overholt nods, "Shouldn’t be a problem then." She settles into the common room, “So folks. Our next gameplan. I heard there was a contact for us to meet for work. Didn't run into her yet, we'll keep looking though. So I figure we get things worked out on the ship, restocked, let folks in town know we're OK.

Shen Jiutai nods, "Work is good, although I guess we've done well in my absence."

Rae Overholt: Scraped by.

Voices are heard as a small group of townsfolk enter the boat and make their way to the upper decks.

Cimorene Ronmark: Just curious... Where's the kitty?… Appears to be. I'm looking for the crew...

Shen Jiutai: Well, I think I have what I need, I reckon I'll head on in to Washburne an' get those groceries...

Cimorene Ronmark shouts: Permission to come aboard?

Tillery Woodhen: ever been on a firefly, Hannah?

Shen Jiutai: I think we have guests..

Cimorene Ronmark: Greetings and salutations...

Hannah Tobias: Um hi.

Cimorene Ronmark: Where is the cat!

Tillery Woodhen: hey folks

Rae Overholt: Wei Till.

Cimorene Ronmark: OHHHH! There you are.

Tillery Woodhen: So what's new in the 'verse?

Shen Jiutai looks at the people that appear to have wandered into the ship, wishing she had her side arm with her.

Tillery Woodhen: Last we heard in town, you had an interesting cargo.

Rae Overholt: Well, got us some creds on our last job to stock up. Met some colorful folk... Did we though.

Cimorene Ronmark: By "colorful" do you mean "hope to never meet again"?

Shen Jiutai starts to draw a large knife from the rack.

Rae Overholt gives Shen a reassuring nod. “That I do.”

Shen Jiutai returns the knife.

Cimorene Ronmark: Ah, the most entertaining type of "colorful" then.

Tillery Woodhen: We had a bit of fun ourselves recently.

Rae Overholt: “Wanna share?” She turns to Till.

Cimorene Ronmark eyes Shen warily.

Shen Jiutai pretends to fuss in the galley.

Tillery Woodhen: I just wanted to make sure y'all got back okay, after that, uh, one adventure.

Cimorene Ronmark is not reassured by Shen's fussing...

Tillery Woodhen watches Shen out of the corner of his eye.

Roland Josephus stays quiet, and lifts his coffee cup to drink.

Rae Overholt: They fixed up the ship at-least before leaving us. I was right nervous for awhile, I won’t lie.

Hannah Tobias gapes at everything.

Cimorene Ronmark: Fixed it? What the heck did they DO to it?

Shen Jiutai looks to the Captain as these people who have invited themselves aboard ask too many probing questions.

Rae Overholt: Replaced the catalyzer.

Cimorene Ronmark: Oh, the Alliance folk is who you're speaking of?

Roland Josephus adds, "Poorly."

Cimorene Ronmark: As only the Alliance can...

Rae Overholt: Got us to you so you could do her up proud though Roland so I can't complain.

Cimorene Ronmark: “That's why they have you, Roland!” She grins at Roland.

Roland Josephus just grunts and turns his attention back to his coffee cup.

Shen Jiutai raises an eyebrow, "I reckon some here do know this guy …”

Tillery Woodhen: You don't have to lay low right in town, our customs "officer" isn't around. Evidently had to answer some questions back home. So the town is totally safe right now.

Cimorene Ronmark: “Something about our visitor, I believe?” She looks inquiringly at Tillery.

Shen Jiutai looks up, "Visitor?"

Tillery Woodhen: The private. He asked a few too many questions about the G-23.

Cimorene Ronmark: Oh yes, a rather terrifying visitor a couple few days back. We don't recommend them.

Rae Overholt: What's that about then?

Shen Jiutai looks interested... her voice goes soft, "What kind of visitor?"

Cimorene Ronmark: Reaver...
Rae Overholt coughs. “Reaver???!!!”

Shen Jiutai curses and runs to her bunk.

Tillery Woodhen: Only one, and it's dead.

Cimorene Ronmark: Turns out that our Private was of the opinion that they didn't exist.

Rae Overholt: They don’t travel, in "only one"

Cimorene Ronmark: We have no idea why we got so lucky, that there was only one.

Shen Jiutai rummages around and finds her favorite pistol.

Tillery Woodhen: This one was grown here. There was the Pax gas that they used on Miranda, somehow a tank appeared here.

Shen Jiutai looks under the bunk.

Hannah Tobias: What on where?

Roland Josephus: Reavers here? Don't we have a pressin’ need to be somewheres else right about now?

Shen Jiutai looks in the closet.

Cimorene Ronmark: Fortunately, it appears that our little adventure has resulted in the Private's recall for the moment.

Hannah Tobias: Maybe it'll make a man out of him. If he don't go crazy.

Tillery Woodhen: He asked his bosses what the hell the gas was doing here.

Cimorene Ronmark can only hope that he will come back without re-indoctrination....

Rae Overholt: so, how'd we get ONE reaver??? He try snortin pax in a shed somewhere or something???

Shen Jiutai returns to the galley and walks up to the Captain, "Um, Cap'n, where is my.." she lowers her voice, "Where's my sword?"

Rae Overholt: You ain't gettin a sword anytime soon Shen.

Tillery Woodhen: the tank leaked, in one of the crates near the Hoban

Shen Jiutai: "Cap'n this ain't no joke!"

Cimorene Ronmark: Lucky we weren't all affected.

Tillery Woodhen: just got the bandage off my arm from where it gnawed on me.

Shen Jiutai: "Cap'n, I need my sword.…”

Rae Overholt: SHEN, what you going to do with it?

Tillery Woodhen: The Reaver and the gas are gone now.

Cimorene Ronmark does not want to be nearby when Shen gets a sword.

Roland Josephus nods, "I agree with Nosy Cook there.. This ain't a passel of shepherds we're talking about here..."

Cimorene Ronmark fears her Wok of Doom will be no match against a sword.

Shen Jiutai looks down at her feet, "It... well I... I just feel safer with it..."

Tillery Woodhen: And we've been livin' with the possibility. you don't see us flippin'.

Rae Overholt: “I don’t feel safer with you having it right now Shen.” She sighs and facepalms.

Cimorene Ronmark shoots a relieved grin at Rae.

Shen Jiutai stops, a tear begins to form in her eyes, "Cap'n... please."

Rae Overholt reaches out and wraps an arm around Shen's neck and draws her into an awkward hug. "Don't worry, I got your back."

Cimorene Ronmark looks incredulously at Shen with tears welling in her eyes.

Tillery Woodhen shuffles in the awkward silence.

Shen Jiutai sighs, "I promise not to do anything stupid..." She stands stiffly during the hug...

Cimorene Ronmark: So, in other news. Cap'n, are you still interested in that discussion we had earlier?

Rae Overholt: Yeah, I think I am.

Tillery Woodhen raises an eyebrow, still curious about the conversation Cim wants to have. “When you get a chance, Rae, stop by my office. Have a few tidbits and possible contacts you may be interested in.”

Cimorene Ronmark: How long will you be in port?

Rae Overholt looks to the News-Man then back to Cim. "We need someplace private to talk?Thanks Till, will do. Possibly tonight."

Cimorene Ronmark: It can wait.

Tillery Woodhen: So can I.

Cimorene Ronmark waits to find out who can out-wait the other...

Tillery Woodhen gives a slightly irritated air. “Do one expose... I'll see you in town. Hannah, want a ride back?”

Hannah Tobias: I actually want to look around the ship, if that's okay with the folk here.

Cimorene Ronmark looks sadly that Till didn't offer HER a ride.

Hannah Tobias: I've only been on the one that took me here before.

Tillery Woodhen: That's up to them. See you folks, later.

Rae Overholt: Ok Till.

Tillery Woodhen: I thought you wanted to talk.

Shen Jiutai looks very uncomfortable.

Cimorene Ronmark: “A girl can want EVERYTHING, can't she?” She batts her eyes at Tillery.

Tillery Woodhen sighs.

Hannah Tobias rolls her eyes.

Rae Overholt stands there, the one waiting this time.

Cimorene Ronmark: So, ma'am, care to walk and then talk?

Tillery Woodhen: “Later.” He heads out, muttering about paranoid spacers.

Cimorene Ronmark sighs, as it is not her secret to tell!

Hannah Tobias: “Can I see more of the ship?” She looks hopeful.

Rae Overholt: Sure thing. Lets go up to the bridge Cim.

Hannah Tobias hears a kitty.

Cimorene Ronmark: I'm following...

Shen Jiutai 's eyes follow Hanna like they are glued to her.

Hannah Tobias: ...what?

Roland Josephus shrugs.

Hannah Tobias: I don't bite or nothin’. Hello kitty!

Shen Jiutai decides that Hanna can be left to pet the cat, and follows the captain.

Cimorene Ronmark: Can I speak freely, captain?

Shen Jiutai: Cap'n.

Rae Overholt: yes you may

Cimorene Ronmark: Very well. Comes fully loaded with the launch key.

Rae Overholt: Officers with launch keys eh?

Cimorene Ronmark: Available in pieces or as a whole, as I hear her tell it.

Rae Overholt: And who might we be delivering to?

Cimorene Ronmark: Funny what you can find lying around when people are otherwise occupied. Well, actually, she's looking for a ... shall we say, liquidators. Though it occurred to me that you might know someone who might have need of the whole. Alter the marking, change the nav-sat and beacon, and you might have yourself a handy disguise. I use "you" loosely here. So if there's interest, or if you think you might know someone who'd be interested, I'll set up a meeting for you.

Rae Overholt nods, thinking. “Ideas Shen?”

Shen Jiutai: Kinda missed the first part, are we snagging a ship?

Cimorene Ronmark: Of course, my apologies. My contact ... shall we say, obtained an alliance shuttle, fully loaded. My contact is looking to move it to a good home.

Shen Jiutai nods approvingly.

Cimorene Ronmark: Either whole or in pieces, as is the buyers' preference. The captain indicated that you might have use for it. Or know someone who might.

Rae Overholt: I reckon we can find someone. Think Shen?

Shen Jiutai considers, "Well, Cap'n Mikki was the last one I saw around here that wasn't afraid to fly Alliance hardware..."

Hannah Tobias enters the bridge “Um, hi.”

Cimorene Ronmark: Hi Hannah.

Rae Overholt: ‘Scuse us hannah. Talking a bit here. We'll let you tour the bridge a little later.

Hannah Tobias: Mr. Josephus said it was fine for me to come in long as I didn't press no buttons.

Cimorene Ronmark: Could we catch up in a bit, Hannah?

Hannah Tobias: Okay, I'll be quiet.

Shen Jiutai eyes the intruder...

Hannah Tobias: ...what?

Cimorene Ronmark: No, I mean we're having a bit of a business meeting. Could you excuse us for a few?

Hannah Tobias: Oh, want me to vacate then? Sure.

Cimorene Ronmark: Thanks, Hannah!

Rae Overholt: Well, I imagine we should get in touch with Mikki then. Tell her what we got.

Cimorene Ronmark: Do you know how long you're to be in-world? I'll let my contact know. Could be the best thing would be for my contact to just come visit the ship, friendly-like.

Rae Overholt: I'll allow it.

Cimorene Ronmark: “Thank you, captain. I'll make the arrangements. So you're in-world until further notice? Any worries about our spaceport friends while you're in-world?” She eyes Shen speculatively, wondering if the Private has any outstanding warrants in her name...

Shen Jiutai looks at Cimorene, "You ain't referin' to Reavers?"

Cimorene Ronmark: No, not so much. I refer to those as are in charge of "customs." I mean to say.

Rae Overholt: Not while he's gone. So lets get it done before he gets back shall we? Or, find him a nice pretty lady to distract him.

Shen Jiutai giggles, "Those Hu-dons? like they could catch us... er... sorry Cap'n."

Cimorene Ronmark: I shall make every effort to help you get out the door in a timely manner. And with that, I shall begin to endeavour now! Unless you have anything else, Captain? I'll take my leave.

Rae Overholt: That should do it, I appreciate it Cim.

Cimorene Ronmark: My pleasure as always. Shall I send Hannah along to continue her tour, should I run into her?

Rae Overholt: Sure thing.

Cimorene Ronmark: Assuming that Shen won't impale her with sharp objects or projectiles.

Rae Overholt: She's safe for now.

Cimorene Ronmark grins

Shen Jiutai grumbles as the stranger leaves. She looks to Rae, "What do you make of her?"

Rae Overholt: She seems good folk. She tried to save our hides when the catalyzer broke, had one ready to deliver right as the alliance showed on our doorstep.

Hannah Tobias: Hi.

Shen Jiutai nods.

Hannah Tobias: You ain't talking about stuff not fit for the ears of me anymore?

Shen Jiutai eyes Hannah suspiciously.

Rae Overholt: Hi Hannah.

Hannah Tobias: Hello.

Rae Overholt: This is the bridge, where half the hoodoo voodoo happens. The other half is at the butt end.

Hannah Tobias: The other half's in the engine room? Wow. This must be neat when you're actually in space and can see stars and planets and stuff... There. I am clever that way. So I hope if you're staying here a spell, you'll come to the restaurant. I'll make some bao and spring rolls. Assuming that's what you want, y'know, you can order anything on the menu.

Rae Overholt giggles at hannah.

Hannah Tobias: Unless it's got chicken. We're fresh out.

Rae Overholt: I would love to visit it. Be nice if Gabe would take me out.

Hannah Tobias: “Anyhow, I think I'm'a disembark and get out of your hair. There's good food waiting at the Joy Luck if you want it.” She waves bye.

Rae Overholt: Soon as I find Gabe we'll be on our way. Thanks Hannah!!

Hannah Tobias: Nice meeting you all! Later!

Rae Overholt: Maybe one day if we do a cargo run for you you can come along.

Hannah Tobias: “Wow, really? Um, I mean, sure, that would be nice.” She smiles sheepishly.

Rae Overholt grins to herself.

Hannah Tobias: Bye Mr. Josephus. I'm heading back to town.

Shen Jiutai watches the exchange, and as Hannah leaves, she looks back to the Captain. "Cap'n, I really would feel safer with my Katana, especially if there are Reavers around..."

Rae Overholt: Just the one Shen.

Hannah Tobias: Bye!

Rae Overholt: You're safe enough.

Shen Jiutai grins, "Thank you Cap'n you won't regret it!"

Rae Overholt sighs and rolls her eyes heavenward. “Shen. You try something stupid again. I'll make sure its a painful mistake.”

Shen Jiutai wonders if Rae thinks she hasn't felt enough pain lately, "The stupid thing I did was try to keep Jenna a secret from Sabrina..."

Rae Overholt: Well, that's true. But, its over. I'm thinking of the future.

Shen Jiutai nods and returns to her galley, wondering when Rae will actually give her her sword back.

Rae Overholt sighs and calls out, "Locker under the stairs in the cargo bay Shen!"

Shen Jiutai grins and scampers down the stairs, "Thank you Cap'n, You're the best Cap'n there is!!!"

Rae Overholt: GORRAM RIGHT I AM!

"Firefly you say? That ain't a bad ship... "

Xiao Li Marshal stretches her legs in the cockpit, glad to be away from Heir and his flunkies.

Rae Overholt walks up to the second chair and plops down in it, "I owe you a drink Xiao Li. Know how you dislike dancing and all."

Xiao Li Marshal: Yeah, just so long as you remember it.

Rae Overholt chuckles, "You aren't just happy with the good deed of keepin’ a girl out of slavery?"

Xiao Li Marshal: Oh, I'm fine with that, don't get me wrongly. But I still say we shoulda kept a little more o' that coin for ourselves.

Rae Overholt: Well, you've forgotten our crate from Heir. We should be able to live off that for awhile. Reckon? She presses the com button and calls out, "GABE, got any tea left?"

Xiao Li Marshal: I sure hope so. An' I definitely hope everything holds up long enough for us to get to Blackburne.

Gabriel Keats: "Shr ah, should be some left in the cabinet."

Rae Overholt: *continues to press com button* "Shiny. Also, wanna thank you for what you did, distracting lump and all."

Gabriel Keats doesn't respond.

Rae Overholt: *coms* Wanna come up? Discuss a few things? Bring me my, tea?

Gabriel Keats: "Sure. Shiny."

Xiao Li Marshal smirks. "That was fun to watch."

Rae Overholt lets go of the com and looks to Xiao li. "You ain't right girl."

Xiao Li Marshal: So I've been told.

Rae Overholt lets out a laugh. She eyes Xiao Li. "You reckon I was too hard on our Mechanic?"

Xiao Li Marshal: Frankly? I'm amazed you put up with 'im this long.

Rae Overholt: Well, I put up with you don't I? ::She grins widely and leans back to mimic Xiao Li's relaxed pose.::

Gabriel Keats preps the tea in the galley, face closed off, pours two cups and heads towards the bridge.

Xiao Li Marshal smirks teasingly. "That's because of my winning personality."

Gabriel Keats walks up and holds both the glasses out.

Rae Overholt takes her feet off the instrument panel as she hears Gabe approach. Twisting around in her seat she gives Xiao Li a wink as she turns and grins widely to Gabe. "My hero has arrived."

Gabriel Keats laughs a little, waits for them to take the plain tea.

Rae Overholt takes the tea and sips on it, standing up so Gabe can have the seat. She blows on the tea as she debates what to discuss next, knowing she needs to address the ever shifting crew. Looking from one to another she waits to see if one of them will bring it up.

Kevin Cliffe arrives at the general store, pays a fee for the cortex terminal, and punches in a few codes...plus one ID code he knows all too well...and fires off the wave...

Xiao Li Marshal lifts her head as the console buzzes. "Huh. Got a wave comin' in. From... *Kevin Cliffe*?"

Rae Overholt: Well I'll be a monkeys aunt. What's he got ta say for himself? Wanderin’ off like that without tellin’ nobody?

Xiao Li Marshal: Let's find out, shall we?

Rae Overholt nods and peers over her shoulder at the screen.

Xiao Li Marshal punches up the wave.

Gabriel Keats half-sits against a wall, waits for Xiao Li to take her cup--he will leave with it if she doesn't take it.

Kevin Cliffe smiles and waves at the faces that come up..."Thought I might get through."

Xiao Li Marshal: “Where the tian xiao de have you been, man?” She reaches behind her without looking and grabs the cup from Gabe just as he's about to leave.

Kevin Cliffe: Trying to find you mostly...and trying to keep one step ahead of...well our mutual acquaintances. They caught me in a bad spot, I couldn't link up.

Xiao Li Marshal: C'mon. Someone as savvy as you couldn't figure out a way to get in touch?

Rae Overholt: We've met a few of our "mutual acquaintances" lately. Did them right proper if I say so myself, right Gabe? ::She grins a mischievous grin::

Gabriel Keats laughs and nods.

Kevin Cliffe: Easier said than done. At this point I can guess you've filled the void in my absence.

Xiao Li Marshal: You'd think so, wouldn't you? We've had a hell of a time trying to keep people on, though.

Rae Overholt: Which void?

Kevin Cliffe: Oh you know, Raven's special features.

Rae Overholt places one hand on the shoulder of Xiao Li's chair and leans closer to the screen. "Can't say as we have."

Kevin Cliffe: Well where you heading next? We can try to hook up.

Rae Overholt leans back and decides to let Xiao Li handle the conversation from here.

Xiao Li Marshal: We're en route to Blackburne, lookin' for a new mechanic. That anywhere near your neck of the woods?

Kevin Cliffe: I'm at the general store right now. Hey, I'm a fair hand with a wrench, you know, if it comes to it.

Rae Overholt calls out, face unviewable from her position, "Don't do us no good to have a wrench we can't never find."

Kevin Cliffe: Check under the grates.

Xiao Li Marshal: Hey, a hypothetical mechanic's better'n none at all, right?

Rae Overholt: MMhmm, always were cong ming de Kevin.

Kevin Cliffe: There's at least two candidates here. by the way, anyone I should watch out for?

Rae Overholt: Why dont you give them a good grilling for us. See if they'd work for us, fit in nice. After the last one, I prefer a team player.

Kevin Cliffe: Well one of 'em's 'Brina, if that helps.

Xiao Li Marshal raises an eyebrow.

Rae Overholt: Well, that mean she's coming back to us???

Kevin Cliffe: Cap'n, I was speaking with her while I was here...you'd have to convince her yourself.

Xiao Li Marshal: Well, we'll be touching down in 'bout an hour's time. We'll see what happens then, right, Cap'n?

Rae Overholt: That we will.

Kevin Cliffe: “Meet you at Firefly's.” He stabs the end call button...

Rae Overholt looks around the cabin, "You folks reckon he can stay still long enough for us to get from one port to another? I'd be awful upset if I woke up one night and he was missin’. What with only a vacuum being out there. Wouldn't put it past him though.” ::She takes another sip of her tea::

Xiao Li Marshal: We *do* have suits, y'know.

Rae Overholt nods. "Well, guess we'll see. Get us there and we'll see what they have for us"

Xiao Li Marshal: Already on it, Cap'n.

Rae Overholt nods to her, busy looking at the other data screen.

Cimorene Ronmark: <>

Rae Overholt peers at the data screen and punches a button, leaning low over it. "Here."

Cimorene Ronmark: Doin a bit of research, ma'am. Got a moment?

Rae Overholt: Sure thing Ms Universe.

Cimorene Ronmark: I've been contacted regarding some ... parts. Parts that are in the way of being ... sought after. Wondering if Raven might have any interest?

Rae Overholt: That so. :::she says in a neutral yet friendly voice:: Might can help you out there.

Cimorene Ronmark: Indeed... it seems that my contact has come into possession of a certain fully-loaded shuttle.

Rae Overholt nods, "Where might this individual need these parts taken? Got a roster on the parts? We're avoiding the God made kind lately after a little run in recently. Prefer to stick to the man made ones."

Cimorene Ronmark: My contact has a roster in the works. Looking to offload some such things as might prove useful to other folk.

Rae Overholt: Well, we just happen to be in the offloading business. Might can help you out there. Where can I meet your contact?

Cimorene Ronmark: Let me see what I can do for you. Due back in the world sometime soon?

Rae Overholt: Should be later in the day.

Cimorene Ronmark: Good to hear.

Rae Overholt: Contact you when we arrive?

Cimorene Ronmark: All right then, see you in the world. You know where to find me.

Rae Overholt nods and closes the wave, then exits the ship to meet the folks at firefly.

Sabrina McGee refills Rol's double bourbon.. "Sure thing.."

Xiao Li Marshal: Ah, that's the stuff.

Sabrina McGee: Some of Pa's best, Xiao Li..

Kevin Cliffe: Cap'n Overholt I presume?

Sabrina McGee: Umm.. Cap'n, is that you?

Rae Overholt: Presume all you want, just don’t accuse.

Kevin Cliffe: I didn't say anything.

Roland Josephus nods once to Sabrina, "Thanks." He picks up the glass and glances around as the bar begins to fill up.

Rae Overholt: So, Xiao li, I owe you a drink right?

Xiao Li Marshal: Yep. Once I'm finished with this one.

Rae Overholt tosses some creds on the bar and grins at Brina, "Hey girl. Get our pilot a drink. You gotta dance with me after though."

Sabrina McGee: All righty, another shot of McGee 10 year after this one..

Xiao Li Marshal: Ah hell. There's always a catch, ain't there.

Rae Overholt grins, "You know you want to. Hard to give it up when you got a taste for it."

Xiao Li Marshal gives Rae a Look. "No. I don't."

Kevin Cliffe: Hear you're in the market for a mechanic...

Rae Overholt: So, hear we got a couple candidates here?

Kevin Cliffe: Three...actually...I'm handy with a wrench, there's 'Brina, you know she's great with the firefly...and this guy here at the bar smells like engine grease...

Rae Overholt: That so. Brina, you coming back to us?

Sabrina McGee: Umm.. Dunno why Kevin keeps countin' me..

Rae Overholt: Cause you're here, and your our mechanic.

Kevin Cliffe: Because you know Raven better than I do in terms of every nut and bolt. You always have.

Sabrina McGee: I got a home here now.. I work here at the bar.. I play music and serve up drinks..

Rae Overholt: Fair 'nuff.

Sabrina McGee: I've got a girl here now.. it's not perfect.. I miss Raven and all.. and I miss wrenchin'.. but..

Roland Josephus lifts his glass to drink.

Rae Overholt approaches the patrons, nose sniffling lightly looking for the engine grease one. Stopping at Roland she leans past him and props on the bar, "You a mechanic?"

Roland Josephus pauses, and looks over to the woman a moment before nodding once, "I reckon so."

Rae Overholt: You reckon you need a job? Got references?

Roland Josephus smiles slightly, "Refrences? I been wrenchin most of my life.. I'm still here... Sides, don't know I want to crew for ye.. What are you flyin? Osprey? Somethen’ worse I bet."

Kevin Cliffe: Don't knock the osprey.

Sabrina McGee chuckles and stays out of it..

Xiao Li Marshal finally reaches the bottom of the glass.

Rae Overholt gives him a smirk, "Firefly. Best there is, named the Raven."

Sabrina McGee pours another shot for Xiao Li and sets it in front of her... “Cap'n, can I get you a drink?”

Rae Overholt: Nah, one drink and I'm out. Gabe ain't here to keep an eye on me. Better not. Thanks though Brina.

Xiao Li Marshal looks at the shot. Looks at Rae. Looks back at the shot. “...ah, to hell with it.” She downs the drink.

Roland Josephus glances over to Fionn, "I reckon I'll knock whatever I ple..." He pauses, and looks back to Rae, "Firefly you say? That ain't a bad ship... " He rubs his chin, "Cargo runs?"

Rae Overholt nods at him.

Sabrina McGee: She's a great ship.

Kevin Cliffe: Better than great.

Sabrina McGee: I practically rebuilt every system on that ship myself.

Roland Josephus looks over at the bartender, "Did ye now? What about the bussing?"

Sabrina McGee: Yup.. she's been all rewired. One of the first things we did. Kevin'll vouch for that.

Xiao Li Marshal: Me too. I pulled more dead rats outta the walls...

Kevin Cliffe: Oooh yeah, boy did we rewire her. How many times did we have to run that high-density insulation and repatch the eighty kilovolt relay lines?

Kevin Cliffe: Need a hand with the guns?

Roland Josephus sets his glass down, and looks over, "You the Captain?" He looks at Rae a moment.

Rae Overholt: That I am.

Roland Josephus falls quiet for a few moments, "I don't take to folks messin’ around in my engine room.… That be a problem?"

Kevin Cliffe looks to the captain...and wonders...

Sabrina McGee bristles at the "my" engine room.

Xiao Li Marshal: Problem?? Hell, that'll get you my fondest regards.

Rae Overholt: After my last run. Naw, I give you permission to shoot.

Kevin Cliffe: Ow, captain, that's gonna suck for whoever's running the left seat.

Rae Overholt: Left seat runner ain’t the mechanic. Thats what com's is for.

Roland Josephus looks between the pilot, and the captain, "I'd have to look at her first....."

Rae Overholt: We could manage that.

Kevin Cliffe: That saying you want me back on?

Rae Overholt: You gonna disappear on us every two days?

Kevin Cliffe: I hope not.

Rae Overholt: I'll give you another chance then.

Kevin Cliffe: All I can expect, captain. Besides...you'll know if I've really left.

Xiao Li Marshal: By what, the trail of bodies?

Rae Overholt: Well, drink up folks, then we get Shen and head back. Hear tell we got a job.

Kevin Cliffe: 'sup?

Roland Josephus empties his glass, and stands up. He tosses some credits on the bar for his drinks, and nods, "How soon you lifting off Cap'n?"

Rae Overholt: Thats a pilot question. I'd tell you as soon as we grab our crew and our boots hit the grating.

Kevin Cliffe: Hey, Roland, you'll love the engine space. And for the most part you won't have to worry about too many spare parts...if my tools are still on board I can machine you most things.

Xiao Li Marshal looks sidelong at Kevin. “...we REALLY coulda’ used that on this last run.”

Kevin Cliffe: Well now you've got it for this run.

Roland Josephus nods slowy, "Fair enough..." He looks at Kevin a moment, "The Raven...How many you got crewing her?"

Kevin Cliffe: Wait, I've been gone this long and nobody's figured out the special stuff yet?

Rae Overholt: SO folks, lets gather Shen up, show the mechanic here our baby and see what we do next.

Kevin Cliffe: Can you handle a wrench in hot combat? Under fire, your life on the line, resting on a technical solution?

Roland Josephus looks over to Fionn, and looks back to Merasu, "Combat?" He shrugs, "Been my experience... Most things in the engine room react poorly to gunfire."

Rae Overholt turns and heads out towards the clinic.

Rae Overholt: Well, I dare say its fallen onto disrepair since we were last here. Hope her care was better than the janitorial service.

Xiao Li Marshal: It'd *have* to be.

Rae Overholt snickers as Shen walks up in much better state. "There we go then. Let's get back to the ship."

The crew returns to Raven at the Blackburne landing dock.

Rae Overholt: “Well, what do you think?” Rae Overholt crosses her arms and waits for Roland's decision.

Roland Josephus wanders around for a bit, Taking it all in. He pauses several places to look inside the workings of the ship.

Kevin Cliffe waits for him to sign on before he shows the good stuff...

Xiao Li Marshal just watches, occasionally popping her gum.

Roland Josephus nods slowly, 'Well your back up atmo scrubber needs some work... Some of the wiring needs attention.. Doesn't look like anyone has cleaned a buss since they got here... "

Rae Overholt: Don't let Brina hear you say that.

Kevin Cliffe: It kept the rats from eating the wiring.

Xiao Li Marshal: I kept sayin' we should just get a cat.

Rae Overholt: “I agree, why haven't you? So, you onboard or not?” She shifts from one foot to another, hiding her anxiety.

Roland Josephus shakes his head, "No cats in the engine room... " He crosses his arms across his chest, before nodding, "She needs some work, but I'll get 'er straight."

Kevin Cliffe nods...looks to the captain..."should I show him now?"

Rae Overholt 's mouth stretches to a slow, wide grin. "You dance too? Show him after we get in the black. You need to pick up anything or can you go like you are?"

Roland Josephus: "Tools.. Won't be a few minutes.." He glances over to Kevin and back to the Captain,

Rae Overholt: We'll wait.

Kevin Cliffe: Once we get back to Washtown, want me to see about getting us a cat?

Fionn Wolfstein: I think I might like one. Xiao li can take care of it.

Rae Overholt turns her grin to Xiao Li.

Xiao Li Marshal: ...I had to open my big mouth, didn't I.

Rae Overholt: That you did. You'd think that gum was more useful.

Kevin Cliffe: I'll help. After all, it'll keep the rats out of the more delicate wires. Kevin feels for the hidden breaker switches... "Huh...these were left on."

Xiao Li Marshal: An' I guess it'll be an emergency food supply if we need it.

Rae Overholt gives Xiao Li a look that clearly states "not a chance in hell."

Roland Josephus leaves the conversation heading off ship. He returns in less than an hour hauling his tool bags.

Kevin Cliffe raises a brow...well, then again, this guy isn't moving in a machine shop...

Rae Overholt: Ok, get us up there Xiao, stow your stuff, what'd you say your name was? We're off to Landing.

Xiao Li Marshal: On it, Cap'n.

Roland Josephus mumbles his name as he passes by heading for the engine room, "Roland."

“We sold her off.”

Tristan Pennell slaps Xiao Li's ass as he passes. “Hi Lena.” He looks bashful.

Lena Lei: Hello Tristan

Tristan Pennell: He's up is he?

Lena Lei: Who?

Tristan Pennell: Anton...doc had him down last time I checked. Hello Anton.

Xiao Li Marshal heads for the cockpit to make sure everything's still in good working order.

Anton Machin grunts.

Tristan Pennell slips a blade out of his holster. “I won't let you near the engine again.”

Lena Lei yawns, where are we?

Anton Machin looks at Tristan with boredom.

Tristan Pennell: Don't make me kill you.

Anton Machin puffs his smoke, "Don't make me fall asleep."

Tristan Pennell: Go sit and have tea... and put that goramm thing out!

Xiao Li Marshal pulls down the comm. "Setting a new course for... where the gorram hell were we goin' again?"

Lena Lei sighs, "Somebody get me some tea too, I'm thirsty"

Rae Overholt: Water planet...what’s its name?

Tristan Pennell: Maybe you could look after your charge, Anton? Can you boil water on that attitude?

Anton Machin gestures to the Galley, The water is right there Babycakes...

Gabriel Keats: "Pressurized cabin. You can boil whatever luh suh y'want."

Tristan Pennell call the comms...Anton is self medicating Doc!

Lena Lei looks at the Galley, then back to Anton, "Well, boil me some water then! I'm not doing it."

Tristan Pennell: I have a ship to shovel coal into

Gabriel Keats looks at Rae. "You want me to take care of this, Cap?"

Rae Overholt: I swear to buddah. SOMEONE get that PIGU some water for her tea!! You're better at it than I am Gabe.

<<<******spurt****** A Wave from Meridian comes in over the cortex>>>

Xiao Li Marshal: Cap'n, we got a wave comin' in from Meridian, you might should be up here for it...

Rae Overholt: “ANTON YOU PUT THAT THING OUT MORON! You know what you could do with it?? Ok Xiao Li.” She heads up to the cockpit.

Anton Machin takes a sweet drag from his joint and looks over his glasses at the Captain.

Lena Lei mutters under her breath, "I can't wait ‘til I'm off this ship."

Gabriel Keats walks to the kitchen, pours two cups of water.

Rae Overholt: I will implant those glasses permanently in your face you keep that up!

Gabriel Keats puts one on to boil. He walks over to Anton with the other, and, with a quick, decisive motion, dumps it over his head, and the joint. "No smokin' on the ship, dong ma?

Lena Lei laughs, "Serves you right, Anton"

Anton Machin is unhappy with Keats and pulls his gun.

Lena Lei: Put that down, Anton!

Tristan Pennell: I jut put more power to the atomo scrubbers

Gabriel Keats: "Thats six kinds of stupid."

Tristan Pennell: Anton.… don't make me kill you.

Gabriel Keats: "If you got a problem, I will pay for what I ruined. But you ain't smokin' on the ship."

Rae Overholt looks back down the hall at the ruckus. "You shoot that here and I'm dumping you out the cargo hold. Threats or no."

Gabriel Keats's hands stay near his guns, but he doesn't draw.

* * *
Rae Overholt walks up and opens the wave.

Xiao Li Marshal picks up the wave when Rae arrives in the cockpit.

<<< Xeno Here... what in the Gorram Hell took you so long getting to Newhall!!!>>>

Rae Overholt smirks into the camera, "Well, I reckon it was the … poor mechanical help you sent us."

Xiao Li Marshal is more blunt. "Your ben tiansheng de yidui rou of an escort thought it'd be a good idea to poke around in the engine room."

Rae Overholt: “That he did.” She nods at the camera. “Reckon you owe us for a catalyzer he broke. Almost killed your niece. Might want to pick a new bodyguard for her next time.”

<<< Xeno: Well Ole' Anton always does manage to get himself into a little trouble, put him on!>>>

Rae Overholt grins and chuckles, "We let her pay him back for it though." She looks back and calls over her shoulder, "ANTON, get your pigu to the cockpit, boss wants ya."

* * *
Anton Machin: “Sounds like my boss...”

Tristan Pennell pulls a thin metal dagger out of his holster.

Gabriel Keats seems supremely unconcerned about this, and goes to get the now-boiling water on the stove.

Tristan Pennell: You managed to make the political one leave. I'm still here.

Anton Machin swings his piece on Tristan... "Now I think you should put that letter-opener away Haus!"

Gabriel Keats: "Tristan... We don't gotta escalate this. He aint' gonna shoot."

Tristan Pennell: "Yes, Sir"

Lena Lei rolls her eyes, "The testosterone in here is a bit high, don't you think boys?"

* * *

<<< Xeno: I want to speak to my man!>>>

Xiao Li Marshal: Thought you said you wanted to speak to Anton.

Rae Overholt: “Can't make him move faster than he'll move, maybe he don’t respect you as much as you think and is loitering.” She calls over her shoulder, "I SWEAR ANTON, PUT THAT THING OUT"

Xiao Li Marshal: Lao tian ye...

Rae Overholt nods at Xiao Li and shoots her a mischievous grin.

Xiao Li Marshal checks over the consoles while she's waiting, making sure Anton's little escapade didn't do any damage.

* * *
Tristan Pennell: Ain't making him any less idiotic.

Gabriel Keats prepares the tea. "Well, we ain't givin' him an IQ test, are we/"

Tristan Pennell: Aren't we? Idiot nearly stranded us... now he wants to puncture the hull.

Gabriel Keats gives Lana a cup; he offers the other to Anton with a steely look. "Then I'd say he already done took the test."

Tristan Pennell: I say duct tape him to the cargo bay floor.

Anton Machin: excuse me, I think the Captain wants to talk to me.

Lena Lei takes the cup and grunts, "Thanks"

Tristan Pennell: I really doubt it.

Anton lights another joint as he walks to the bridge.

* * *
<<< Xeno: That you there Anton?>>>

Anton Machin grunts at the screen.

<<< Xeno: What in the hell have you people been playing at on that boat??? You should have been there a week ago!!!!>>>

Rae Overholt waves her hand in the air and mutters a comment about henchmen playing with wacky weed.

Xiao Li Marshal scowls at Anton. "I told you, blame *him.* An' NO SMOKIN' ON MY BRIDGE!"

Anton Machin looks to the Monitor, "Well boss... these here Ravenites took me on a little detour..."

Rae Overholt: THESE HERE??? *she reaches out and cuffs anton on the back of the head*

Xiao Li Marshal yanks the doobie out of Anton's mouth, drops it on the floor, and grinds it under her heel.

<<< Xeno watches the exchange..."When did you start letting little girls hit you Anton?">>>

Anton Machin rubs the back of his head...

Xiao Li Marshal: Since he PULLED THE CATALYZER OUT OF OUR ENGINE, that's when.

* * *
Lena Lei takes a sip and looks disgusted, "Ugh, I'll be glad to get to Newhall and get something decent to drink"

Tristan Pennell: Hi Lena.

Lena Lei looks over her cup at Tristan, "What do you want?"

Tristan Pennell: Just saying hi... you don't remember me do you?

Gabriel Keats: "I got some honey if'n y'want."

Anton Machin saunters to the bridge..."Hello'Captain’... what gives?"

Tristan Pennell: I was at the bar... Hoban... before your uncle gave us this gig. We danced one night...I guess its ok.

Lena Lei: Oh, that crappy place? I was probably drunk

Tristan Pennell: yeah....me too

Lena Lei: I usually have better taste in dancing partners.

Tristan Pennell: But I remember your perfume, it was spicy, not sweet.

Lena Lei rolls her eyes, "Whatever."

Gabriel Keats shrugs, preps the cup he was gonna give to Anton, and saunters up to the bridge.

* * *
Anton Machin laughs, "And they like to make up stories... what can you do..."

Gabriel Keats clears his throat. "Stories?" He stands in the background, having just come up to the bridge, and sips his tea.

Xiao Li Marshal gives Anton a death glare.

<<< Xeno "Look here Anton, let me make this perfectly clear.... You're late, perhaps Sugartits and her little wisp of a "pilot" have been taking you for a joy-ride, but if Lena doesn't make that Marriage, you'll only be able to count to eight!! Dong Ma?"

Anton Machin looks nervous and swallows, "Yes S... s... Yes Sir!"

Xiao Li Marshal looks smug.

Rae Overholt giggles.

Gabriel Keats manages to mostly hide his annoyance at Xeno's comments and pretends to inspect an instrument panel

<<< Xeno: "Now what in the gorram hell have you girlies been doing with my Niece?">>>

Rae Overholt: I reckon we've kept her stocked with books and tea. What do you expect for us to do?

Xiao Li Marshal: *We* haven't done anything. She's fine.

<<< Xeno: "I rekon if you wanna get packed by old Anton there, that's your issue, but you will not mess up this business arr...er marriage!!!">>

Xiao Li Marshal: I told you, THIS asshole is the only one messin' things up.

Rae Overholt: Whatever it takes to help you sleep at night Boss.

<<< Xeno: I will see to it you never land on Meridian again, or that pathetic dust-ball you call Burnet!!!>>>

Gabriel Keats turns away from the vidscreen and rolls his eyes.

Anton Machin coughs, "You didn't mention the Alliance..."

Rae Overholt: I'm sure you will. We ah.. seem to be getting a little interference with the wave now though, must be system malfunction. *She kicks Xiao Li lightly as a signal*

Xiao Li Marshal turns a dial and the screen fills with static. "Yeah, you're breakin' up..."

<<< Xeno:"Did he say ALLIANCE???!!!">>>

Rae Overholt: Looks like we gotta turn this off, might be draining precious resources from elsewhere Boss. Talk to you when the deal is done.

Xiao Li Marshal quickly disconnects the wave.

Rae Overholt turns and leans back on the console, crossing one leg over the other and crossing her arms. "You know Anton, I think you might be draining precious resources too."

Anton Machin gently traces his fingers over his piece, "heh"

Gabriel Keats clears his throat behind them.

Rae Overholt: I don't think you'd be able to get us all before Xiao Li here made this bug unflyable for you.

Anton Machin: Well I guess youse gots some 'splainin' to do when you get home...

Xiao Li Marshal grabs the comm. "We're approaching our destination. Everybody get strapped in. An' somebody get this waste of sperm off my bridge."

Rae Overholt plops in the copilots chair and buckles in.

* * *
Tristan Pennell: So...we're alone now...can you not be a bit nice, miss?

Lena Lei laughs, "And why should I be?"

Tristan Pennell: I gave you whiskey...better 'n that one Gabe managed to find.

Lena Lei shrugs, "That's true."

Tristan Pennell: See..I got some style, not just a monkey.

Lena Lei laughs, "Too bad, I kinda like monkeys."

Tristan Pennell: And our dance was good...close and slow, remember that?

Lena Lei shakes her head, "I don't remember a thing, I must have been pretty blitzed."

Tristan Pennell: “'s OK. I had fun, no matter where you are going now...a water planet..that should be fun, lots of bathing.” He looks a bit shy.

Lena Lei shrugs, now looking a bit worried, "I suppose."

Tristan Pennell: I like a bit of water...it's so different from the black, you know?

Lena Lei nods, takes a sip of her tea and puts the cup down on the table.

Tristan Pennell: I heard today on the wave...it's raining in Washtown... rain... so amazing... clouds crying.

Lena Lei looks away, and seems lost in thought, "Yes . . . amazing."

Tristan Pennell: Clouds crying...what do you think they cry about?

Lena Lei shrugs, "I don't know. Maybe they aren't where they want to be."

Tristan Pennell: I think they cry because we left them behind, because we went to the black and left them.

Lena Lei: Maybe. Or maybe they just didn't want to be clouds.

Tristan Pennell chuckles, “Like you don't want to go to your wedding?”

Lena Lei looks away and frowns, "I don't know what you're talking about."

Tristan Pennell: Yeah you do, you’re going to be a bit .… owned aren't you?

Lena Lei glares at Tristan, "No one, and I mean NO ONE, owns me!"

Tristan Pennell: A price for gansgsters to brag about.

Lena Lei looks down and whispers to herself, "I have to get out of this."

Tristan Pennell: “You will...I see that. Come one...lets have a drink.” He pulls a flask out of his hip pocket and passes it to her. “Are you so against it you want to run?”

Lena Lei takes the flask and takes a sip. She hands the flask back to Tristan, "Yes, I think I might."

Tristan Pennell: Don't tell Xiao Li...it's our secret OK? We could talk to the captain... she's great and won't send you to a thing you can't manage.

Lena Lei leans back and crosses her arms, "I dunno. Maybe it won't be so bad. This guy's got money, right? Maybe he won't be an asshole."

Tristan Pennell: “Maybe.” He passes the flask back.

Lena Lei takes another sip and hands the flask back to Tristan. “Don't give me anymore, I don't need to be drunk right now.”

Tristan Pennell grins..."you’re a real lady, ain't you? Really? I mean that.”

Lena Lei shrugs, "I don't know what a ‘real lady’ is, but thank you."

Tristan Pennell: Yeah...I ain't met many...but you fit it. You and Xiao Li. Thing you have, it’s a... its a thing you have... special.

Lena Lei: Xiao Li? She's the pilot right?

Tristan Pennell looks a bit lost.."yeah, my other half... her... she points it, an I push it."

Lena Lei: Sorry, I'm not very good with names.

Tristan Pennell: We have a ...symbiosis... she points and I push...simple, yeah?

Lena Lei laughs, "Is that what they call it now?"

Tristan Pennell: don't ask her.… she'll call me annoying. I took over from Bina, you know... I'm a bit outside too.

Lena Lei looks confused, "Who's that?"

Tristan Pennell: She ran this bug for a long time.… she had to go... I’m an outsider trying to fit in and trying to make her purr.

<<>>

Xiao Li Marshal: This is Firefly Raven. We have locked on to your landing beacon and are proceeding as instructed.

<<>>

ON THE SANDS OF NEWHALL:

Anton Machin walks up to Sadi, "Hello, this is Lena." He gestures to Lena... "Lena... oh Lena..."

Lena Lei follows Anton, "Charmed."

Rae Overholt watches the exchange.

Sadi Minion nods once, to Anton, and smirks, "Looks like you made it... Who hit you?" He looks over to Lena, and takes her arm turning her as if to check a piece of property.

Rae Overholt glances over her shoulder at the observer.

Lena Lei frowns, "Hey! Get your hands off me!"

Anton Machin rubs the shiner that all of the doctor's skill couldn't hide...

Rae Overholt narrows her eyes slightly. “No one hit him, he fell.”

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Rae Overholt: Gets slippery on them catwalks sometimes.

Xiao Li Marshal watches, an even bigger scowl on her face than usual.

Anton Machin: “Well... see some things are a group effort...” He takes a drag on his joint and blows the smoke at Rae.

Rae Overholt gives him a smirk.

Sadi Minion blinks once at the outburst. The back of his hand moves quickly, striking her across the mouth, "Speak when you're spoken to!" He jerks her closer to prove his point, before looking at the rest of them, 'Heir Maelstrom is waiting... He doesn't like to wait."

Gabriel Keats watches, eyes icy, arms crossed.

Tristan Pennell: Captain... we're done... let me kill him.

Rae Overholt looks to Tristan, "Down boy."

Tristan Pennell slips a dagger out of his holster.

Anton Machin pulls his gun and points it at Tristan.

Lena Lei puts her hand to her face, and glares at Sadi, but keeps quiet.

Tristan Pennell: I can move faster than you...

Anton Machin: "Now now, you don't want to mess up this business arrangement..."

Sadi Minion glares at the two men, "Put them away .. Now.. You kill each other on your own time."

Rae Overholt: Yeah, we want anton to be able to count to nine now don't we?

Anton Machin holsters his gun.

Tristan Pennell: Captain said no... captain said no... no other reason.

Sadi Minion: "You're all on the clock.. Let got talk to the Boss."

Anton Machin: Lead the way...

Lena Lei looks scared and rubs her face.

Tristan Pennell: Be strong girl.

Sadi Minion jerks Lena into step beside him, half dragging her along, as he leads them across the sand.

Lena Lei follows Sadi, glancing back at Anton.

Rae Overholt: S'pose this is the lucky groom.

Tristan Pennell: Hey... be nice mate...

Sadi Minion deposits Lean in front of Heir, "She’s got a mouth on 'er Boss."

Heir Maelstrom extends his arms out to his sides in mock greetings, head tipping forward ever so slightly to nod his hat towards the ground. "Greetings my most honored associates and welcome to my world..." His eyes dart from each member of the crew before seeing Lena, face a tapestry of pleasant, if not fake, emotions. "Come here girl, let me have a closer look."

Lena Lei opens her mouth to say something, but closes it quickly. She moves cautiously closer to Heir.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Sadi Minion looks back at the crew, “Shhhhh."

Lena Lei glances back at the crew and at Anton, a pleading look in her eyes.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Heir Maelstrom appraises her a moment, the physical abrasions quite visible and slightly disturbing considering. He knew she wasn't going to be used by his son anyway, so as upsetting as it may seem, he felt nothing, but on his face a veneer of happiness shown. Time tested business moxy it was, always give them your best.

Rae Overholt raises an eyebrow at Lena and gives her a contemplative look. Shifting from one foot to another.

Lump Maelstrom wanders up to the gathering, eyeing the men slowly.

Xiao Li Marshal clenches her teeth and runs her hand over her left forearm, over and over and over...

Anton Machin looks back at Lena with detachment.

Tristan Pennell: Lena!

Rae Overholt casually leans so that she puts her arm on one of Xiao Li's shoulders, bent and draping off.

Xiao Li Marshal looks sharply at Rae

Heir Maelstrom: Son, get over here... we have a marriage license that need signing... *a thickly rolled piece of parchment seemingly emerges from his hand as if from no where...*

Sadi Minion looks back at Tristan, "Shut up.. She's with the Boss."

Tristan Pennell: phht

Lump Maelstrom gazes at Tristan's bicepts, "Aww... Dad!!!! Do I got to?"

Tristan Pennell: not my boss

Sadi Minion is about to say something to Tristan, but his attention is drawn to the drone of engines coming from the water. He looks over, “Excuse me Boss? You're afternoon appointment. He's late."

Lena Lei looks at the groom to be, eyeing up and down, realizing that this may not be the kind of man who would make the best husband.

Lump Maelstrom walks up to Lena and extends a fishy hand, "Er, Hi..."

Heir Maelstrom were he less controlled, one might have heard a sigh of disappointment, the whore’s egg must have ruined the value of his seed. This much was obvious from looking at the offspring before him. "She's a good match for you and a valuable asset to us..."

Lena Lei squeezes his hand and forces a smile.

Lump Maelstrom checks Gabe out.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Rae Overholt watches all the checking out with a hidden smile.

Gabriel Keats arches his eyebrows at Lump.

Sadi Minion walks toward the docks, as a boat speeds up. Two men emerge from it, dragging a third man, with a hood over his head. Sadi walks over to the hooded man, and drags him to the sand. He puts a foot in the mans back, and pins him to the sand., while reaching down, and taking the man's hood off.

Lump Maelstrom: Dad, do I gotta marry her?

Rae Overholt: Well, looks like the wedding is going to have to be on hold. Seems you got visitors. *She motions to the men in the sand behind her*

Heir Maelstrom rolls the parchment back up a moment, turning his head to look out across the beach towards his associate. His jaw visibly inclined from one side to the other as if aggravation and loathing were roiled beneath his calm exterior.

Lena Lei looks a bit relieved.

Gabriel Keats suddenly laughs, a little red, tries to hide it.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Rae Overholt: “Tristan. Go check on those repairs to our ship.” She gives him a meaningful look.

Heir Maelstrom glares at his son a moment, his eyes firm and unyielding. "You, stay put..."

Sadi Minion keeps the man face down in the sand with a boot in the middle of his back. He looks up at the group for a moment.

Heir Maelstrom turning to the rest of the assembled party... "My apologies valued clients, one moment of your time..."

Rae Overholt turns to look Anton square in the eyes.

Sadi Minion looks up at Heir, and shrugs, "He was late."

Lena Lei turns around and looks at the crew one by one, then at Anton.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?


Heir Maelstrom extends an open gloved hand to the henchmen, fingers curling in that time honored 'gimmie motion'. "One musn't be late to their own funeral... Baituo, Anjingeedyen..."

Sadi Minion reaches down, and unholsters a pistol, spinning it to hand to the man.

Tristan Pennell: Lena, you don't need to follow.

Rae Overholt continues to look Anton straight in the eyes, face neutral.

Lump Maelstrom smiles at Gabe, "Pa calls me 'Lump'."

Gabriel Keats: "Are you excited about getting married. Having a *man* made out of you?" He gives a mysterious smile.

Xiao Li Marshal shifts from foot to foot, rubbing her arm and wishing she were anywhere but here. And also that she had some alcohol.

Tristan Pennell: Mate! Is that appropriate? She's being sold! Can we mange that?

Anton Machin returns Rae's gaze, face poker neutral.

Rae Overholt says Tristan's name sharply.

Tristan Pennell: yeah?

Heir Maelstrom holds in firmly, gripping the handle tight as he places it to the top of the mans head, almost digging it against the flesh covering the skull. Reaching down he cocked the gun right there. Without a second thought he pulled the trigger, small amounts of particulate brain casing and bloody matter showering the sand behind him. "Dispose of these..." was all he said, dropping the gun on top of the mans dead body.

Lump Maelstrom: Dad! why did you make such a mess?

Rae Overholt turns from Anton back to Heir.

Gabriel Keats winks at the one called "Lump."

Lump Maelstrom smiles back at Gabe

Sadi Minion nods once, and reaches down to retrieve the pistol. He grabs one of the dead man's pants legs, and starts to drag him towards the boat.

Heir Maelstrom pulling his glove slightly tighter over his hand, he smoothly returned to the gathering crowd, face a little less friendly and slightly more cold. Reaching to his waist, he pulls out the parchment once more and holds it out between both hands. “Sign, both of you. I trust you can find the dotted lines.…”

Lump Maelstrom looks at Heir reluctantly... "Oh alright!"

Lena Lei looks at the parchment and hesitates.

Gabriel Keats tries to subtly catch Lump's eye. It's all he can do.

Lump Maelstrom takes the pen from Heir and signs the paper. He smiles at Lena, "Go ahead..."

Rae Overholt: “She throws a mean left hook, make sure she signs with her left hand.”

Sadi Minion kicks the body into the open boat. He takes a moment to pay the boat crew, and whisper some instructions before making his way back to the ceremony.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?!

Gabriel Keats mutters something unintelligible.

Lena Lei takes the pen, looks back at Anton, then signs the paper.

Anton Machin slides his hand along his pistol.

Tristan Pennell looks at his boots.

Heir Maelstrom smiles quite openly, that pleasantness returning to his demeanor. "Ah, yes, quite splendid..." Turns the paper over to inspect the names.

Xiao Li Marshal 's fists clench.

Tristan Pennell: Lena?

Lump Maelstrom sighs, "Dad, can I be... well are we done?"

Lena Lei looks at Tristan briefly, then looks down.

Rae Overholt nods and smiles at Gabe, rather fakely.

Tristan Pennell: Life happens around us Lena.

Heir Maelstrom: It seems that all is in order... Be sure that the Raven crew’s payment is delivered to their ship, I do imagine the trunk near the dock to be sufficient to carry it all, with extra in leu of gratuity...

Anton Machin grunts "Congrats you two."

Lena Lei mumbles, "Sometime life happens to us"

Tristan Pennell: Lena? Remember us? OK?

Xiao Li Marshal: Smack Anton around for us a few times.

Gabriel Keats: "Lena, girl? You still got my anthology?"

Tristan Pennell grins.

Lena Lei looks at Gabriel and nods.

Sadi Minion nods, 'Right Boss." He smirks, "Looks like you're done here Raven... Who wants to get paid?"

Lump Maelstrom slides up to Heir, "They can stay a while, right?" he eyes Gabe.

Tristan Pennell: I need some party time.

Rae Overholt: I reckon we're ready to get paid and get out of here. Got other business, here there's work in Landing.

Gabriel Keats: "Mind takin' me to it right quick? I left some notes in there. . ."

Tristan Pennell: Yeah a good gig from what I hear.

Heir Maelstrom turns a moment to look down the beach, a solid second spent contemplating the future of his son, and a smiling return back to the Raven crew. "Before you go, do spend some time here on my property... It is an ever so lovely beach and guests are always welcome..." Looking to Sadi a second, eyes trailing down to his firearm, "Within accepted reasoning of course..."

Rae Overholt: Time of the essence though.

Gabriel Keats gives Lump a quick, confident smile.

Tristan Pennell: Time is a manufactured thing, Captain.

Rae Overholt: Sure it is Tristan. Well Anton, guess we gotta get you home.

Tristan Pennell: Leave him to sharks.

Heir Maelstrom: I insist you stay, I would take it as a personal insult otherwise... *those last words seem to hide somewhat of an ulterior meaning*

Sadi Minion nods, 'Let get you loaded.. Then you can have clearance whenever you want."

Lena Lei looks at the crew, and at Anton, pleading in her eyes.

Anton Machin nods to Rae and under his breath he says "don't rush..."

Rae Overholt: You'd prefer we missed our next job?

Tristan Pennell: Captain?

Gabriel Keats: "I don't see why we can't stay a bit, Cap. . ."

Tristan Pennell: I don't want to watch this!!!!

Heir Maelstrom: You would risk insulting me and my organization, dashing hopes of further... work...

Xiao Li Marshal is silent.

Anton Machin whispers, "Really... don't rush."

Rae Overholt: Fine, lets get our boat loaded, then we can take a break.

Anton Machin sighs and smiles.

Tristan Pennell sighs.

Rae Overholt eyes Heir, "You got something special planned for us?"

Lena Lei looks relieved at hearing the captain say they're not leaving just yet.

Rae Overholt gives Anton a "look."

Anton Machin returns the look.

Sadi Minion just shakes his head, "Who's callin’ the shots here anyhow? Helluva way to run a ship."

Lump Maelstrom makes a small wave at Gabe, like 'c'mon here.'

Rae Overholt: “That would be ME!” She looks over her shoulder at him.

Xiao Li Marshal marches toward the ship, muttering "I need a drink..."

Heir Maelstrom: Have you seen the sunset on a beach that goes on forever? It is to be dreamed of, I can assure you that half my clientele will never see it...

Rae Overholt raises an eyebrow at Heir, "Then I don't guess we can turn it down."

Anton Machin: Well, this sure beats the hell out of Burnet!

Gabriel Keats tips his head as he walks over to Lump.

Tristan Pennell: Pilot? Got more than one back here?

Rae Overholt grins at Gabe.

Heir Maelstrom turns his head ever so slightly, accentuating both a single eyebrow and the firm grin of a winning smile thats crossing his lips. "No, I suspect you cant."

Gabriel Keats: "Congratulations, sir, on bein' indoctrinated into a world of *womanly* pleasures." He gives Lump a wry grin.

Lump Maelstrom blushes...

Rae Overholt follows Xiao Li to the ship, shooting Heir a disarming wink.

Tristan Pennell follows Xiao Li..hoping to get a bi drunk.

Gabriel Keats extends a hand. "I'm Keats."

Lump Maelstrom meets Gabe's firm grip with a fishy shake and smiles, "Pleased to meet you..."

Tristan Pennell: Xiao Li, this happens a lot? We work as salvers?

Lena Lei looks around the beach, forgetting for a moment the slap from earlier, "Somebody get me a drink. I need one."

Rae Overholt glares, "We ain't no slavers."

Tristan Pennell: “We sold her off.” He looks at his boots.

Heir Maelstrom vanishes down the beach, heading off to another functionary of his business further along. Trusting his current staff of servants and guards to handle the Raven crew in his stead...

Rae Overholt turns and walks out in search of Anton.

Gabriel Keats: "You got somethin' on your mind? Wedding night jitters?"

Tristan Pennell winces and tries not to pull a knife clear.

Rae Overholt walks up to him and grabs his ear, dragging him after her to the ship.

Lump Maelstrom looks at the beach... "Perhaps I could show you the sunset... I like this bonfire, would you sit with me?"

Gabriel Keats smiles. "If'n you wish for company, who'm I not to oblige?"

Sadi Minion walks over to Lena with a smirk, "I'll get you a drink girly. " He grabs her arm again, and walks her towards the bar.

Lena Lei tries to yank her arm back, "I told you, don't touch me!"

Sadi Minion Thats all it takes for Sadi to backhand her again. This time hard enough to snap her head back, "You best learn quick girly... How things work around here."

Lena Lei look hurt and scared, her hand up to her face.

Gabriel Keats leans in close. "You ain't gonna let him hit her like that, are ya?"

Tristan Pennell: Pilot, save me.

Xiao Li Marshal: Save ya from *what*?

Tristan Pennell: I'm lost here, can we let her go? Into slavery? You should Know Xiao Li.

Xiao Li Marshal: "Ain't up to me," Xiao Li mutters into her drink.

Lena Lei looks down, a tear rolls down her cheek.

Anton Machin whispers to Rae... "Wait for the right moment."

Sadi Minion takes Lena's arm again jerking her towards the bar, "Now ask nice.. I might get you a drink."

Lena Lei follows Sadi to the bar, looking defeated, "Please …”

Gabriel Keats hears the note of defeat in Lena's voice. It's all he can do not to reach for his gun.

Tristan Pennell: Captain?

Rae Overholt gives Tristan a death glare. "Stand down."

Tristan Pennell: Captain...its slavery!

Anton Machin shoots Tristan a "Don't fuck this up" look.

Rae Overholt: It's a marriage.

Tristan Pennell: Yeah, right...you know this Xiao Li? Marriage right?

Rae Overholt gives Xiao Li a "look."

Sadi Minion smirks, "Thats better... You might even get to like it here." He reaches over takes a handful of Lena's hair, "Pretty too... " He reaches over the bar, and grabs a bottle.

Lena Lei grimaces as Sadi pulls her hair, but says nothing, staring down at the sand.

Anton Machin wanders over to the bar, "Hey Barkeep, one for me?"

Lump Maelstrom snuggles closer to Gabe.

Gabriel Keats murmurs. "C'mon now, boy. You're way too much of a man to let him treat your property that way. " He grins, leans in, whispers, "unless, of course, she isn't what you want."

Lump Maelstrom looks up, "Hmm?"

Anton Machin slaps Sadi on the back, "Looks like you really made out on this deal..."

Sadi Minion takes little notice of Anton, taking the cap off the bottle, and tossing it aside. He grunts at Lena, "Open yer mouth Pretty, and tilt your head back."

Lena Lei shuts her eyes and does her best to keep her mouth closed, trying not to drink.

Rae Overholt looks to Xiao Li, "You got those specs worked out for our trip?" eyes speaking volumes.

Xiao Li Marshal: "Workin' on it, Cap'n."

Anton Machin , not deterred helps himself to a Mai Tai...

Gabriel Keats tries to subtly--very subtly--stroke his hair. "She isn't what you want, is she?"

Anton Machin: So, Um, do you hang around here for fun, where does a guy take his new property these days on Newhall?

Sadi Minion reach up suddenly catching Lena's face in one hand., "What’s the problem? I thought you wanted a drink?"

Lena Lei shakes her head and whines, "hmm . . . . mmm . . . no!"

Anton Machin shoots Lena a knowing look that says "Don't Panic."

Sadi Minion pauses, and looks back to Anton, "Huh?"

Anton Machin: Well, I was just wondering where the hot spots are 'round here... looks like you're getting ready to paint the town red...

Sadi Minion looks back to Lena a moment before letting her go, and taking a pull on the bottle, "Maybe...There’s huts all over.... I get my pick."

Tristan Pennell: Anton...do you remember that smacking she gave you? Do you remember us trying to genderfy you?

Anton Machin grins and nods to Tristan, "Good times..." He turns back to Sadi, “Well, huts, yeah, but ain't there someplace to show off your new toy? Heck, first drink will be on me!” He grins at Sadi.

Tristan Pennell: Pompous ass!

Sadi Minion rubs his chin, "I didn't think about that.... Can she dance?"

Anton Machin: “Heck yeah she can dance...” He nods to Lena.

Xiao Li Marshal: I'd better go... check an' make sure the cargo's secure, Cap'n...

Rae Overholt: You do that Xiao Li, plenty of time to relax after.

Xiao Li Marshal saunters, rather quickly, toward the ship.

Tristan Pennell: Lena don't dance.

Lena Lei glares at Anton.

Anton Machin tosses his eyes at Lena in a "Say yes" fashion.

Tristan Pennell: Don't Lena...

Lena Lei looks at Anton, and decides to trust him, "Yes, I dance."

Sadi Minion looks over to Tristan, "You don't have to watch... Shut up."

Anton Machin grins at Sadi, "That's right he don't."

Tristan Pennell: I'm not small. I can stand up yo you.

Anton Machin shoots Tristan another "Don't fuck this up" look.

Xiao Li Marshal, some time later, returns and sidles up to the Captain. "Got our 'course' all planned out."

Tristan Pennell: Fuck what up? a slavery purchase?

Sadi Minion looks at Tristan, "You want to take a boat ride too?" Lena's words snap him out of it, "I bet she'd be a helluva dancer."

Xiao Li Marshal hands Rae a datapad, face-down.

Anton Machin grins, Come on you two, let's go get some more civilized company.

Rae Overholt shakes her head at Tristan as she takes the datapad and glances at it, nodding and slipping it back.

Tristan Pennell gabs a blade. “You think you can take me? Slaver?”

Sadi Minion shrugs, "So what? Good money in slaves."

Anton Machin looks to Rae...

Rae Overholt gives Anton a helpless look. "Tristan, I could use some help with stowing some cargo."

Anton Machin clears his throat. “I think your Captain needs you Tristan...”

Tristan Pennell: Captain...unless the argo has feet I'M BUSY!

Anton Machin whispers in Tristan's ear "Busy endangering your crew?"

Rae Overholt: Tristan. The cargo is precious to me.

Tristan Pennell: The Captain doesn't need me Anton.… she wants me to be nice. Do you think I'm Nice?

Anton Machin whispers, "I've got this covered."

Rae Overholt: TRISTAN!

Tristan Pennell: “Aye captain!”

Xiao Li Marshal has a whispered argument with Rae, then walks away with a scowl on her face.

Tristan Pennell: He's an ass and need an ass whipping.

Rae Overholt: You can whip his ass after you help me with my cargo.
Anton Machin: That would be bad for business.

Lena Lei gives Tristan a look as if to tell him to cut it out.

Xiao Li Marshal walks up behind Tristan. "Trish. Cap'n needs you. NOW."

Sadi Minion laughs, "You best listen to your friends.. You're about to get in some real trouble."

Tristan Pennell: fine.... this will not be my last stand.

Xiao Li Marshal: So... Anton...

Tristan Pennell: He needs a bit of handling.

Xiao Li Marshal hands the datapad to Anton, making sure Sadi can't see the screen.

Anton Machin glances at the data pad, "Yes... Yes... OK thank you... I think that will work just fine..."

Tristan Pennell leans in to Anton's ear..." you suck.… I'll make sure its vacuum."

Rae Overholt: “Tristan, follow.” She points in front of her. He follows the Captain out of earshot of those by the bar. “Tristan, you're new to my crew, so I'm gonna give you a freebie. Do not question my orders.”

Tristan Pennell: I'm no slaver
Rae Overholt: Do not question my orders. because of your actions tonight, I might not be able to do any good for that girl.

Tristan Pennell: I could.

Rae Overholt: You do what I say. If you payed enough attention you'd noticed the rest of the crew. Hell even Anton and what they was doing. You think we all aren't tryin’ to pull somethin’ off? You ain't stopped yappin’ long enough ta watch and listen and learn. We're gonna go back to that group, you're gonna keep up your insults, cause thats what they expect now, but don’t you lay a hand on Anton.

Tristan Pennell: Fine, and so I'm too new to know?

Rae Overholt: What's to know Tristan? You want me to stop in front of Heir and his henchman and say "HEY EVERYONE got a plan to YANK OUT THAT BRIDE?"

Tristan Pennell: You sneak around to the rest.

Rae Overholt: Ain't no plan circulatin’ ‘cept between Xiao li and I. If'n you'd watched people's body language you'd have figured out my crew knows me fairly well and just did what they could.

Tristan Pennell: If you want me to follow, you have to lead.

Rae Overholt points a finger in his face and glares, "The rest of my crew seemed to know how to follow my lead. Don't you ever accuse me of not leadin’, you don’t know me well enough."

Tristan Pennell: You have no right to accuse.

Rae Overholt: NEITHER do you!

Xiao Li Marshal walks up to where Tristan and Rae are talking. "You OWE me for this, Cap'n."

Rae Overholt: Yeah Xiao Li, I think you'll be OK with it in the end.

Tristan Pennell: Wonderful.

Rae Overholt: You realize, we get linked up in this Tristan we could all be dead, this pigu is poised to take over this system! We're going to play it stealthy. Don't reckon you're going to let us though, so you do as you were, go back there and scream and yell. Let them think you hate that boy but don’t touch him.

Tristan Pennell: That's not the point.

You: Then what IS the point?

Sadi Minion shouts: "We're takin’ yer wife dancin’...That OK?"

Tristan Pennell: We're playing slavers here, I can't... Xiao li... can you?

You: Then we'll drop you off at the first spot. Cause you ain’t getting it.

Xiao Li Marshal: The operative word there is "playing," Tristan.

Tristan Pennell: Show me how we get out of it then.

Rae Overholt looks to Xiao Li, "I'll let you do this, diplomatic don’t seem to be doing it." She storms off.

Tristan Pennell: And give me a swig Xiao Li.

* * *

Anton Machin hands the pad back to Xiao Li...

Sadi Minion in the meantime, has sidled back up to Lena, trying to get her to drink again.

Anton Machin looks to Xiao Li, "Hey Red, we're gonna hit the hot spots... wanna go dancing?"

Lena Lei takes a drink and leers at Sadi, hoping to keep him distracted.

Xiao Li Marshal scowls at Anton. “What the hell makes you think I'd dance with you?”

Sadi Minion grins, "There you go girly.. You'll get to like it here... We're gonna have a good time."

Anton Machin grins remembering Xiao Li straddling him, "Oh, just a thought..."

Lena Lei forces a grin, but it looks more like she just drank toilet water.

Xiao Li Marshal: Don't make me beat you up again, little man.

Anton Machin laughs, "So.... rain check then! Sadi, are we gonna blow this Bao Stand?"

Xiao Li Marshal tosses the datapad in Anton's lap and walks away.

Sadi Minion nods, 'Lets see what she looks like under all that."

Lena Lei tries not to, but looks at Sadi with disgust.

Anton Machin places the pad in his pocket, "I seen her since she was a kid... kinda scrawny..."

Sadi Minion reaches over, and grabs her arm laughing, "Come on. .. You don't want me mad."

Lena Lei frowns at Anton, and silently mouths, "Scrawny?"

Anton Machin grins, “Are we gonna dance or not? Sadi, you must know where there are some babes..."

Sadi Minion nods, 'Place near the landing pad.." He shouts: "We're takin yer wife dancin...That ok?" “Come on.” he orders Lena.

Lump Maelstrom looks up from Gabe, "Whatever"

Lena Lei follows Sadi and Anton.

Anton Machin produces small packet of powder..."For the trip" he says as he sniffs some and hands the bindle to Sadi.

Sadi Minion looks over at Anton, and back down at the packet, "What is it?" He sniffs it anyhow, handing it back."

Gabriel Keats murmurs. "If she isn't what you truly want. . . then you should let 'er go. Free yourself."

Anton Machin: Rae, we're going out... don't wait up...

Rae Overholt nods at the packet, "You're not givin’ that stuff away are you Anton, thats worth prime creds."

Anton Machin scoffs, "Provincials! Let's go somewhere sophisticated, you two..."

Rae Overholt scowls at him, "Sure, and I’m the rude one." She turns and stalks off.

Sadi Minion grabs Lena's arm again and drags her back towards the landing pad, "This way..."

Lena Lei follows Sadi to the landing pad, almost tripping from the rough treatment.

Anton Machin gestures to the small ship sitting next to Raven, "That your ride Sadi?"

Rae Overholt: I'm thinking we had enough fun, I've seen the sunset. You guys ready to head out?

Anton Machin follows Sadi to the landing pad...

Sadi Minion shakes his head, "Naw.. Thats the Boss’s shuttle."

Rae Overholt grabs Gabe's hand and drags him to his feet.

Lump Maelstrom frowns at Rae.

Rae Overholt: Sorry Lump, I got work for Gabe here.

Lump Maelstrom pats Gabes knee and smiles, "I guess you gotta go be Cap'n Pet ‘night"

Gabriel Keats seems to be doing an impression of a long-departed crew member as he stands, smiling. "Remember what I told you." He winks, wets his lips, then turns away, eyes closed.

Sadi Minion pauses, "We won't be gone long... Can you fly?"

Anton Machin 's face bursts out in a wide grin, "Why I think I've been behind the wheel of one of these before..."

Rae Overholt rolls her eyes at Anton's statement.

Sadi Minion smirks, and drags Lena up the ramp of the shuttle, "Come on Girly."

Anton Machin expertly presses the buttons opening the doors and powering up the shuttle...

Lena Lei stumbles up the ramp behind Sadi.

Anton Machin straps in to the seat, and helps Lena with her safety restraint.

Anton Machin: "You'll be fine right there Sadi" Anton says as he engages the Main Grav coupling...

Sadi Minion: Don't get comfortable.. You ain't gonna be in that seat long Pretty..

Lena Lei folds her arms across her chest and looks away.

Anton Machin leers at Sadi, "That's right, we've got a big night planned for you, don't we?” he winks at Sadi as the shuttle lifts off."

Sadi Minion sits down in a seat, and fumbles with the safety harness.

Lena Lei sits quietly, watching Anton intently.

Anton Machin takes the shuttle to a height of 20 Meters, and before Sadi can buckle in he sweeps over the water and pops open the door, Tipping Sadi into the surf. "Hope you can swim.!!!"

Sadi Minion looks over that the hatch, before looking back just in time to see Anton kick him out. The cursing can be heard even over the roar of the wind.

Lena Lei watches Sadi fall out of the shuttle and smiles.

Xiao Li Marshal grins broadly as she watches Sadi drop into the water.

Anton Machin winks at Lena. He spins the shuttle over the Raven crew and wags the wings as he rockets off into the sunset.

Lena Lei smiles at Anton, "I was starting to think you were going to let that maniac have me."

Anton Machin smiles at Lena, "Nah, he had to think it though..."

Anton Machin: "Marry me kid, although..." He hands Lena the Data pad, "this is yours even if you say no."

Lena Lei looks at the pad, "What is this?"

::The Datapad shows a bank account with lots of credits in it::

Anton Machin: "Let's call it a wedding present. Hey wait, I guess you're already married..." He grins as he puts his arm around Lena and the two fly off together.

Lena Lei grins broadly and looks up at Anton, "The answer is yes."

Rae Overholt: Guess we should head on out now?

Xiao Li Marshal: Guess so. I'll go warm up the engines.

Lump Maelstrom watches as the shuttle flies off with Lena, "Hunh."