GR RP "Adventures in GunRunning" ACT 23

POSTED BY: CapnRahn
UPDATED: Sunday, November 7, 2004 21:02
VIEWED: 20489
PAGE 1 of 1

CAPNRAHN

Thursday, October 28, 2004 3:16 AM

PREVIOUSLY ON FIREFLY:
ACT 22: http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=7532

CREDITS & BIOS:
http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=3498

RPing TOOLS:
Tools and tricks for the hip RPer.
http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=4266

GREEN ROOM:
Storyline work and a place for the acKtors to hang out.
OOC 23

ARCHIVE:
Includes episode synopses and links to all the threads for prior acts
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=3681

MECHANICS OF RPing:
Tips and tricks and preferred RP methods, developed by the Gunrunners and Hitchers themselves
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=4266

DIRECTORIAL STAFF:
Guest DireKtor - DragonflyDireKtor { CapnRahn@aol.com AIM, MSN }
Guest Asst. DireKtor - MercedesTroy { tampa.cyberose@verizon.net AIM}
GameMaster - Geezer { fireflygeezer@cox.net }
Co-Director - FrauDirektor { htempe@hotmail.com, MSN, AIM: MissAstriana, Yahoo!: MissAstriana, ICQ: 9592266}
Co-Director - Channain { channain@yahoo.com; AIM}

STUDIO OWNER & RP DISTRIBUTION:
FireflyFans.net produced by Haken

GENERAL POST GUIDELINES
None have been established yet. Each player has a unique style for posting a move that is consistent within itself. You'll catch on!

ACRONYM DEFINITIONS & TERMS
EOM = End of Move
OOC = Out Of Character
POV = Point Of View

Last but not least, the Gunrunners and Hitchers would like to extend a big THANK YOU to Joss Whedon for creating a whole new 'verse for us to play in, and to Haken for giving us a bright, shiny new sandbox theater!

JossGunrunners & Hitchers
HakenGunrunners & Hitchers

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

CAPNRAHN

Thursday, October 28, 2004 3:21 AM

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?!!
At approx. 1950 hrs/7:50 PM to 2010 hrs/8:10 PM Alliance Mean Time ... In other words - Eight'ish!

BRIDGE: Mal, Zoe, Wash, Kaylee

FORE HALL: Damon

GALLEY: Merz, Jayne, Rowan and Inara

LOWER COMMON AREA: Thorn & River

PASSENGER DORMS: Book, in his.

The rest can just wait a mo till I can catch up with them!!!

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

SQUEE

Thursday, October 28, 2004 6:08 AM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - FRONT HALL

Damon returns his attention to Rowan when she starts talking to him again.

ROWAN: "And if it makes you feel any better, I'll get my talking-to tomorrow. I happen to know he talked to Merz too, so I think he's just making sure he didn't hire any mass murdering lunatics.”

No, we already had that talk. This is different. I screwed up and considering his mood, I’m probably going to get an earful. He considers saying as much but hesitates half a second too long. Before his thoughts become words, she is speaking again.

ROWAN: “Do me a favor and behave yourself, huh? you don't want to go for a vacuum swim, dong ma?"

Damon blinks, watching her walk down into the galley. He can hardly believe he heard her say that. Why would she care if I got spaced or not? I’m just a slave. A brief look of disgust flashes across his face as he gives himself an inward kick for even thinking that. But as hard as he tries, he can’t deny what is: as long as he has that thing on his arm he won’t be anything but Crofton’s property to the rest of the verse.

He inhales and lets out a deep sigh as he slides to the floor and leans back against the sloped wall, suddenly feeling the pain of his injuries and extremely tired again. For the life of him he can’t understand why he’s so tired. True, over the months of freedom his body’s been asking for more sleep and better care now that it isn’t being pushed to survive without. And yes, he’s injured and still doesn’t sleep much but that’s nothing new. Maybe it’s just cuz the pain killers have worn off and-

The pills! The pills I took this morning must have some side effects. I didn’t bother check. His mouth twitches into a slight smile of triumph.

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CAPNRAHN

Thursday, October 28, 2004 2:29 PM

LOCATION - BRIDGE
As...

As Kaylee speaks Mal gently slides the broken shards of the saucer into his pocket. A quick glance at his hand shows no blood. Nothing to have a scar about, nothing to remind him of his stupidity. At Kaylee's mention of a bridge, he focuses fully on her.

KAYLEE
... winding down...
"...Away team goes out the bay, drops about 5 feet to the dirt, and WASH takes the rest of us for a nice flight. Dong ma? Easy as pie.”

Kaylee stops breathlessly with a huge grin. Her face shining in anticipation of the crews reaction to her explanation. Mal looks a tad blank as he takes a second to digest the raw information Kaylee flooded them with. A half-grin creases his features as he nods at Kaylee's logic.

MAL
"Thats my girl - always thinkin'! An you got all-o this from rememberin' a kids foolhardy ole game." ... shakes his head ruefully... "Far as I can tell, your on the right track. Have at, pass it to the others and carry on."

He smiles at Kaylee and turns to Zoe and Wash. A single step towards them ends in a light, but final-sounding 'crunch'. He looks down, pivots his foot on the heel to reveal: the further shattered remains of the china tea cup Inara thrust upon him. Mal sighs, seems he is always putting his size twelves where they ought not be. Kneeling and not looking at the Crew, he gently picks up the pieces, wondering why it wasn't as easy to grasp the broken shattered remnants of life. Unobserved, the spilt tea slowly evaporates.

EOM

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

SAINT JAYNE

Thursday, October 28, 2004 2:59 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Those oily fish sticks go down nice and easy. Jayne tries to be contented with that; he tries to forget the tempation of the wonderful smell that still lingered in the kitchen despite the air reclamation vent just above him.

That's it. When he gets some time off planet side, he's shelling out for an honest to goodness meal at an eatery.

Jayne meets eyes with the women who enter the Galley and nods to them in turn. His mouth is still full, plus he doesn't have much to say. Not to that one, anyhow. Jayne watches Rowan's exchange with Merz until Inara joins him in the kitchen area.

CHANNAIN

Thursday, October 28, 2004 6:41 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Rowan did catch the little twitches - Merz shaking her head as if to vehemently deny something, then the abrupt change in her bearing, the resolute expression. Not on her face, because her features never change. It's something intangibly electric.

FLASHBACK

"They're coming in."

She understood Robert's tone, the finality of it, but not the look he turned to give her husband. They had always known this was a possibility, solidified by the crushing defeat at Serenity Valley. Now that the final moment was upon them, she found herself eerily calm about it all yet one question resounded back and forth in her mind.

How could it end like this?

She reached for him, took his square hand in hers and found it uncharacteristically cold and unresponsive. Then he turned to her and she saw the stark resolution in his eyes. It didn't occur to her what it meant, not until she saw him look past her and felt another, stronger hand on her arm.

"I'm sorry," was all he could say--after everything they had been through, just that woefully inadequate act of contrition.

She resisted. How could he expect her not to? And for a second his hand did grip hers, as if for the last time. But Li knew her too well and had come prepared. It was like something out of an ancient movie where the heinous villain kidnaps the damsel. The noxious fumes from the cloth he put over her mouth filled her senses, stinging her eyes. Darkness closed in all too quickly. There was no time to say anything. Not even goodbye.

END FLASHBACK

Rowan opens her eyes again - not entirely sure when they went shut this time - to find Merz simply handing her a folded up piece of paper. Appreciating the modicum of confidentiality, Rowan distracts herself from the latest wave of whatever-that-was with concern over the other woman's complete lack of response otherwise. Less than an hour ago, she and Merz were having a meaningful, human exchange. Then one talk from Reynolds and Merz is suddenly reset into ultimate TROY mode? What the hell did the gorram Feds do to her?

Not sure what to expect, Rowan unfolds the paper to read the results both from the infirmary diagnostic, and what must be Merz's own handwriting.

Negative

Looking up, she searches Merz's emotionless features for confirmation. She doesn't have to pose the question out loud to receive Merz's nod of confirmation. Terse and matter-of-fact, rather like she's giving a report to her superior.

So, no toxins, no strange brain chemistry combinations, not even so much as the implication of possible infection. Then what in all that is holy is going on with her head?

ROWAN: "Well, thanks anyway. I appreciate your work on this."

On a sigh, Rowan figures there's no sense worrying about it now when apparently nothing can be done. She has all but promised fresh bao and it's time to see if she can deliver the real thing, or come up with something comparable. Moving into the galley, she takes a look in the refrigeration unit and after some rummaging manages to unearth a small tin box from way in the back. Opening it, she discovers no less than a half dozen scallions. A true treasure trove out here in the black.

Grinning, she can taste the tangy-sweet delights as she looks up at Jayne. He's still giving her eerie-ass suspicious looks, but at the moment she could care less about it.

ROWAN: "At least something's looking up. Hey Merz, feel like shredding some protein for me?"

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

RAVENWHYTEWING

Thursday, October 28, 2004 7:35 PM

Slights move:

Slight comes out of his memories. He is still blind. And there is someone nearby. Abruptly, he feels someone searching him. A card is suddenly removed from his pocket. What the. . .Card?
Slight had made it a point to never carry any kind of ID. And access to the Cortex was made through a memory stick. No matter. Focus on the threat. Disturb. Threat clearly perceives no danger. Throw him off.
Slight waits until the intruder has removed his hands. Then he speaks, his voice making hisses as his organs try to compensate.
"Go pretty far for a first date. I generally like to know your name first."

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

MANIACNUMBERONE

Thursday, October 28, 2004 8:06 PM

Malachi's Move
Location: Slight's ship

Annoyed with himself for not checking the vitals on this thing more closely, and caught off guard at the same time, Malachi leaps to his feet and takes a few precautionary steps backwards. "You should be dead." Malachi says through the muffled protection of his helmet.

Malachi takes a few more steps backwards then stops, noting the eyes of the body on the floor, lifeless, unseeing. But the wires attached to him, like antennae... a problem. Cautiously, he opens a small panel in the right forearm of his suit and resumes the life support functions. Then he opens the stream, via his neural connection, to initiate the self-destruct on the second msr... but he waits. "Speak..." Malachi says with a commanding voice. "...and save your life. Who left you here?"

EM

RAVENWHYTEWING

Thursday, October 28, 2004 8:51 PM

Slight smiles. He wants him to speak, eh?
As he smiles, the umbilicals from his eyes crumble to dust, the nanytes having served their purpose. Idly, he wonders if his eyes are still red.
"How presumptious. Do you really think someone who's. . .dead. . .will surrender any information to someone who threatens him?"
He stresses the word dead to increase the impact. Keep him off balance.
"To answer your question, I was left here by," for a moment, he doesn't know what to say. Will his mind be open enough? More likely this man is not. "Niska. He's had an intensive surgery recently. Have you heard of Adelei Niska? He was escorted by someone called Troy. I believe. And now I think you owe me some answers. What's your name? How did you come by here? One as equipped as you does not exercise good Samaritan values in stopping to check for survivors. If I had to guess, I'd say whatever you've got in your hand brought you here.
"And one last thing. Dare to threaten me once more, you will suffer. Threaten me after that, you will die. I give this as no threat, but as a fact. I am a representative of the Blue Sun, and do not take to poor treatment from my colleagues in the business of death."

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

MANIACNUMBERONE

Thursday, October 28, 2004 9:32 PM

Malachi's Move
Location: Slight's Ship

Malachi doesn't turn his back to the man lying on the floor claiming to be blue sun, yet as the man addresses him, he walks slowly backwards all the same. No need to threaten him at all. Malachi thinks as he reaches the entry chamber to the hatchway and opens the door.

Sending a quick message to the msr, he grabs a hold of the doorframe and watches as the other tiny fore window explodes out into space, sucking with it everything not tied down. You'll get no repairs to your ship this time. Malachi thinks as the suction stops and the rooms' lack of gravity comes into equilibrium. He climbs/floats up the ladder and exits the ship.

EM

CHANNAIN

Thursday, October 28, 2004 11:00 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

ROWAN: "Let's make us some Bao."

Setting the tin of scallions up on the counter, she removes two bricks of compressed protein from the refrigerator and sets them aside. Then she's back into the cupboards again, pulling down the spices and sauces she saw the last time she was in there - soy, oyster, sesame, garlic powder, plus the basics. There isn't any more fresh garlic, which is something she'll have to remedy as soon as she can once they get to New Hokkaido. Always a good practice to leave galley stores as she finds them. Lining them up, she takes another peek out into the main area, where Merz is still sitting.

What kind of regimen has Merz been subjected to for only an entire lifetime? Some of the information they had garnered alluded to the idea that they were clones of soldiers who had been subjected to the exact same program more than 50 years ago, possibly longer. Only they never found any evidence of cloning activities within the Alliance. Robert was the one who came up with the crazy notion that the Alliance actually had a contingent of elite soldiers who were kept in a state of hibernation when not in use and then thawed out when they were needed for another war or police action or something else even more dark and despicable. There used to be a time when Rowan would have argued the point - she accused him of having played one two many VR games - but now she isn't so sure he wasn't so far off the mark after all.

Reminded of the message that still needs answering, yet unwilling to do so with Jayne in such close proximity, Rowan returns to her work.

The "bread" needs to be prepared first, so the protein has time to absorb the spices and taste like something other than bland paste. Rowan begins by giving Jayne the eye before unwrapping one of the bricks. Slamming it down on the counter, she rolls the wrapper up into a ball and shoots for two points into the trash receptor. From the drawer behind her, she takes out a stainless-steel rolling pin and shoves the drawer closed with her hip. Smacking the protein with the rolling pin, she begins to flatten it out.

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SAINT JAYNE

Thursday, October 28, 2004 11:48 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Every problem is an opportunity in disguise. That's what he'd heard Inara say on one or two occasions. Jayne decides to volunteer his rarely seen cooking skills to Rowan's bao. He'd made it once or twice himself when he was young, when there was a crowd to feed and his mother couldn't handle everything herself.

"Bao", Jayne says to Rowan as she prepares to roll the protein. "I can make bao. Lemme do that for you. Or I'm handy with a knife, too." He talks smoothly as he moves in towards Rowan, extending his free hand to the rolling pin.

MERCEDESTROY

Thursday, October 28, 2004 11:58 PM

MERZ move

LOCATION - GALLEY

MERZ heard and understood ROWANs question about the test results and was able to respond. She was coherent enough to nod her understanding of ROWANs implied question. But she was still slow to come back to reality from the cognitive state. Having gone that deep to assimilate events of the day, time was needed to catch up to the present.

Something JAYNE had said earlier had filtered in and been added to the mix. Having finally put context to what he had said, she looks up and attempts to catch JAYNEs attention. She will come back to ROWANs question momentarily …

MERZ
“JAYNE. Are you implying that it was Captain Reynolds that put those contusions on your face?”

He does not have to respond in words, she can read his reactions like print. She tilts her head and opens her mouth to speak again. But a shudder runs through her. The empty expression on her face twists into a rictus that in no way resembles a smile.

MERZ
“You said” … “you got off 'thout so much as a grill mark on yer face, so 'sider yerself lucky.” The speaking voice is not Merz’ voice. Not even female in register. When it shifts again it is a perfect match to JAYNE’s. But it changes back … once again. You are wrong, civilian. It is Reynolds who is lucky.” With a final sneer, MERZ’ face relaxes back to it’s normal mode.

ROWAN has moved off into the kitchen area and is deep in preparations for whatever she is … well, preparing. MERZ considers her last question. “… Hey Merz, feel like shredding some protein for me?"

Yes. Right now that is just what MERZ ‘feels’ like doing. ~ i have no idea what that means. i do not care. I do not choose to think about things for a while. I would learn something new … ~

MERZ stands and walks into the kitchen area. Catching ROWANs attention she nods again. “Yes, I will shred protein. Show me.”

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

DECOY

Friday, October 29, 2004 12:09 AM

Wash's Move
Location - Bridge

(Wash is staring at the Helm console, sipping his tea, reading the data on the nw security moniters that Rowan has discovered... he suddenly blurts out): "Hey, Kaylee, dear, can I have a cupholder up here? When I'm drinking hot tea, I really need a place to put it, because I might need my fingers for flying the ship, instead of having them hold bandages, you know?"

(A teacup and saucer shatter right behind him, and Wash slowly turns to look, figuring that Kaylee will now kill him with one of those tools she usually keeps in her pocket... only to find that the Captain has dropped his. He sees the look in Mal's eyes, and he turns back around, figuring that everybody has been and still is ignoring him... why did he have to ask for a cupholder at a time like this? Maybe I need to unwind, I'm acting too crazy, maybe...

Let's work on the drop course some more, as he brings up the maps...)

On the Earth that was, the Sun that was, was just setting over a particular place that was... and the time there was 20:11 AMT (8:11 pm) Luckly the time was the same here as well.

Decoy, they make me go first.

INARAESQUE

Friday, October 29, 2004 1:47 AM

Inara's move

LOCATION - GALLEY

Inara empties out the dregs of that last batch of tea, sighing very softly and trying to keep her annoyance from showing. Her mood is like the summer thunderstorms on Sihnon, cold fronts and warm fronts colliding, raging vividly. Unlike the thunderstorms, though, her mood is silent, inward, and shows little sign of passing quickly and melting back into sunny skies.

She's hurting from Mal's apparent inability to even acknowledge her and smarting from the sense of fairness that prevents her from being truly furious with him: she knows she's hurting him too. Perhaps the two of them are the summer storm, the cold and the warmth, the lightning and the thunder...

The kettle of water reboils and Inara tips more tealeaves into the pot. Jayne is there in the preparation area and she acknowledges him -- everyone else is getting on with something else, and so Inara remains quiet, brooding a little on Mal and the broken teacup.

Merz's peculiar behavior registers with her, and she bites her lip quietly, not sure that her interference would do more than cause problems.

Still...

Inara takes one of the galley's mugs and pours a mug of green tea from the new pot. Offering Merz a little smile that doesn't reach her eyes -- she's not feeling like smiling, but it is a Companion's instinct -- she offers the other woman the mug.

"Here, you missed the tea before. Would you like some?"

EOM

SAINT JAYNE

Friday, October 29, 2004 3:25 AM

JAYNE - GALLEY

"Jayne." Merz's voice interupts his attempt at opening a conversation with Rowan. Jayne leans back to get an unobscured view of her as she sits at the table. "Are you implying that it was Captain Reynolds that put those contusions on your face?"

Well, si lang gou¹, she certainly waited until enough people arrived before furthering what he tried to keep a private conversation. "I din't say no such thing", he throws back in an attempt to difuse her. It fails miserably. Instead, Jayne is left stunned by a playback of his own voice, word for word; was she even contorting her face to look more like him? That was hideous.

When Merz adds, "you are wrong, civilian. It is Reynolds who is lucky", Jayne's mouth leaps in to gear. "Cap'n got lucky with you? Well, what him an you are doin' behind closed doors ain't rightly my concern..."

"...Hey Merz, feel like shredding some protein for me?" Rowan breaks in.

Jayne's voice drifts off with a mutter of, "guess that'll show how civil I am." He lauches the empty fish stick container into the recycler.

¹ dead man doggie

CHANNAIN

Friday, October 29, 2004 4:26 AM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - Galley

So Reynolds is the one who put those marks on Jayne's face? Interesting. Recalling that little scene from the cargo bay when she and Jayne practically compared wounds, Rowan wonders what it was that would earn him that kind of treatment from his captain. And now he's gone from keeping his distance and giving her weird looks all day to offering to pound protein? Hearing a decided difference in Jayne's tone and seeing the eager way he's reaching for the rolling pin, at first Rowan starts to think maybe Reynolds may be on to something about that stalker gôu pì. Yet she's never felt entirely threatened by the man who's bigger than her and somewhat unpredictable.

Rowan is also getting the distinct impression that Merz's little interplay with Jayne is somehow specifically designed as a protection mechanism - as if Merz is intending to protect Rowan from the big bad man. Exactly why, Rowan has not a single clue, but it does pull Jayne's attention away for a pretty strange moment between the two of them.

Watching Merz's face change, hearing the decided difference in her voice, Rowan isn't entirely sure what to think, except maybe her theory about personality fragmentation might not be such a shot in the dark. Deciding it's time to bring a little touch of regimentation into the mix, she turns to Jayne.

ROWAN: "I imagine you're probably handy with a lot of things da jia huo. Turning compressed protein into something resembling bread dough does take some muscle, if you don't mind."

Holding out the rolling pin, she tightens her grip and tugs back when he tries to take it. Their eyes meet when he looks at her in askance.

ROWAN: "Go easy."

A lift of an eyebrow lets him know she's not just talking about the protein.

MERZ: “Yes, I will shred protein. Show me.”

Turning to see Merz standing at the ready, Rowan leaves Jayne to the first task and gives Merz a long look. She looks controlled enough, but there is still that underlying energy.

ROWAN: "It doesn't take a lot of precision, but it does take some control. I need the protein shredded, not pulverized, dong ma?"

Leaving Merz to properly process that information, Rowan goes for the kitchen knives and takes a medium-sized one, then the other brick of protein. Glancing over one shoulder, she sees Merz watching her every move as she moves a few feet down from Jayne. Cutting off a slice from the block, she slits the wrapper and removes it. She begins cutting the protein into squares, then drops them into the food processor. Adjusting the settings, she stands back and lets Merz see how long she holds down the button that activates the machine.

ROWAN: "Five seconds on the first burst... three on the second. Then pour it into this bowl." Quickly, she ducks down into a lower cupboard for a stainless steel one liter mixing bowl. "Then do it again. I only need half the brick shredded. Dong ma? And you."

Moving around, to Jayne's other side, she watches him try to flatten the protein down to something more closely resembling flatbread.

ROWAN: "Actually, that's pretty good. Not bad--seems you have done this before. Hold off a second, let me add something."

Reaching past him as he lifts the rolling pin, she grabs the soy and garlic powder. Sprinkling both, she spreads it over the surface as evenly as she can.

ROWAN: "There, work that in, then roll it out again. We'll start cutting the sections after that."

Hearing the food processor running with precision, seeing the little bit of tongue protruding from the corner of Jayne's mouth, Rowan relaxes just a bit and looks up to where Inara is standing by the stove. She's brooding about something, or more to the point, someone. Rowan figures if she were a kinder perso

INARAESQUE

Friday, October 29, 2004 5:20 AM

Inara's move.

LOCATION - GALLEY

"Cap'n got lucky with you? Well, what him an you are doin' behind closed doors ain't rightly my concern..."

And the storm is back, wind and lightning, chilling her to the bone. Inara's throat tightens painfully to the point where breathing seems to only exacerbate the sudden ache.

(Breathe. Just breathe.)

It's irrational.

Inara shakes her head a little, clinging to the shreads of control. Of her training. He shouldn't be able to do this to her. No one should. ... She'd sworn she wouldn't let him ruin her good mood. Wouldn't let him upset her again...

Another chill. The hairs on the back of her neck are almost standing up, and she feels cold. Quite, quite cold.

It's not true. It can't be true. It's just Jayne shooting his mouth off. Speaking without thinking, misinterpreting...

(Stop. Breathe. Calm down.)

She looks to Merz... no. No. She's certainly attractive, but...

(Is that why Mal won't look at me?)

This was Nandi and Saffron all over again: Inara was being completely irrational and more than a little hypocritical even thinking like this. And yet. The tightness in her throat is familiar.

Quote:
Flashbacks. Two. In rapid succession.

Cargo Bay. A shy redhead. Then Zoe's voice, triggering a stabbing pain in Inara's gut. Everybody, I want you to meet Mrs. Reynolds.

Heart of Gold. Early morning, heading to wake Nandi, just like old times at Madrassa. She hated mornings, and so Inara would sit with her, stroke her hair. The door opening. Mal emerging, closing the door quietly. Pulling his shirt on. Inara's stomach plummeting. She doesn't even remember the words exchanged. Just the tears that followed.

(Keep breathing.)

She has no claim on him... Inara knows this. Just "ifs and maybes", as Mal had once put it. Silent yearning. Foolish wishes that no trained Companion should ever...

There's hot prickle in her eyes and Inara clenches her jaw until the threat of tears is over.

(It's not true. There's not been the time. Mal's shown no signs of--)

Another glance at Merz.

(Stop it.)

She stirs the tea in the pot irritably, encouraging the tea to draw. She's breathing in the fragrance, hoping it will calm her down

(Breathe deep. Slowly. Uncoil that knot inside... Breathe in... and out, and try to let it go...)

EOM

MERCEDESTROY

Friday, October 29, 2004 10:56 AM

MERZ move

LOCATION - GALLEY

Another impression. She hears the voice now in playback –

INARA “Here, you missed the tea before. Would you like some?”

- and she is holding a mug of warm ~deep inhale~ spiced green tea ~ Did she thank INARA?

Jayne, he spoke too –

JAYNE “Cap'n got lucky with you? Well, what him an you are doin' behind closed doors ain't rightly my concern...”

That is clearly a reply. A reply to what? MERZ closes her eyes and concentrates … there is a discontinuity – a blank in her own perceptions. How strange? What does that mean?

As she ponders, she has continued toward ROWAN and the new task. She watches. She remembers to set down the mug before filling her hands with knife and protein. Concentrates; shredded, not pulverized, got it. Five seconds, then three; drop in bowl, repeat.

MERZ glances at Inara and finds her looking back. But her eyes … her bearing … her breathing even; something is wrong.

JAYNE talking in riddles, making happy chit-chat with ROWAN, smelling of paranoia and a little anger. INARA scenting of stress and perfume, and anger. ROWAN … she needs to speak to ROWAN.

Not now. Too many persons about. MERZ loses herself in routine, until half the block of protein is reduced to shreds. Turning to ROWAN she waits for the next step.

Confusion continues to color her mind. What was JAYNE trying to say? Was it important enough that she should ask someone? She sighs.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

RAVENWHYTEWING

Friday, October 29, 2004 2:02 PM

Slights move:

This man cannot leave!
Slight reformats his nanytes into a radio as he contacts Malachi. His mind reaches out, grasps the intruders mind.
He speaks softly to the man in his mind.
"I wouldn't go anywhere, boyo. I'm not finished with you."
He grins-he has it now. Slight exerts the pressure, and listens for the man to feel the blood vessels breaking. First it should be the nosebleed.

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

SAINT JAYNE

Friday, October 29, 2004 2:34 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

"There, work that in, then roll it out again. We'll start cutting the sections after that."

Jayne nods and procedes as he is instructed. He doesn't quite notice the tension in the room until he turns to Inara to see what she's doing there. Uh oh. She looks ill. Not like before, but she doesn't look good.

Jayne flattens the dough again until covers the section of the counter in front of him. He hopes that's the right thickness for Rowan, but if it's not, he'll hear about it.

He turns away for a moment to stare at Inara until she returns his look. "You good?"

CHANNAIN

Friday, October 29, 2004 6:23 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

The protein for the buns needs to be warmed just a bit to work in the spices. Studying the stove, Rowan turns a dial to preheat to 100 degrees and then goes back to her chef's assistants. Merz finishes up fairly quickly and Jayne makes fast work of his task as well, even with taking a pause to check out Inara. Once he's done, he turns to stare at Inara until she feels it and looks up to meet his gaze. Rowan steels herself, prepared to run interference for the woman if she has too. No sense pouring fuel oil on an open flame.

JAYNE: "You good?"

Wait...is that genuine compassion? Rowan doesn't realize her jaw is hanging open until she feels a set of eyes on her and looks to find Merz staring at her. Giving herself a little shake, she gets back to business. She takes a look in the bowl to find the protein exactly in the condition she needs it to be.

ROWAN: "Umm... okay, good. That's good. Now... I don't suppose you know anything about glazing?"

She looks at Merz hopefully, although already suspecting it unlikely.

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

INARAESQUE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 12:23 AM

Inara's move

LOCATION - GALLEY

Vaguely, through the haze of Inara's mood and attempts to calm herself, she slowly becomes aware of someone's eyes boring into her. It occurs to her that, perhaps, her mood is becoming conspicuous, so enough. She lets herself disassociate with the cold, faintly sick feeling, and looks up...

Jayne is looking at her, a kind, slightly worried expression on his face. Inara is simultaneously touched, and horrified. If her mood is obvious enough that Jayne can notice it...

Run-tse duh fwo-tzoo. Time to get a grip.

"You good?"

Small smile. Jayne's been nothing but kind to her since seeing her... like that. "I'll be alright," she tells him quietly, putting her hand on his arm in a gesture of gratitude. "I just... have things on my mind at the moment."

Which is not a lie. Huge understatement, but not a lie.

EOM

CHANNAIN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 12:46 AM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

INARA: "I just... have things on my mind at the moment."

Rowan shakes her head at that, marveling at the companion-oriented gift for understatement and so skillfully polishing a bald-face lie.

ROWAN (softly): "Things? I'd say it was just one thing in particular."

Inara's dark eyes shoot over to meet hers while Jayne looks on, somewhat mystified by the subtle girl-code. Rowan lifts an eyebrow at Inara, conveying her own sense of the ridiculous in a companion's pining for a captain who's obviously pining for her. Inara can take it as she will.

Returning her attention to Merz, Rowan reaches out to pat the smaller woman on the shoulder, noting the scars again and sending a silent curse to the authorities either directly or indirectly responsible for putting them there.

ROWAN: "Nevermind. You hang out for a second. I'll do the glazing and you can stuff later, hâo le ma? Jayne, that bun dough looks good. If you could cut that into three-by-three squares and start putting them on a pan - they have to set a bit in the oven before we start stuffing."

Taking the bowl to the stove, Rowan takes down the wok and puts it over a burner.

EOM

hâo le ma = okay

SQUEE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 1:28 AM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - FRONT HALL to GALLEY

After only a few minutes of sitting down, the voices from the bridge and galley start to meld together into a distant drone. Something about cup holders… glazing…

Quote:
"Last chance, Damon…"

Whoa! Damon’s head snaps up with a sharp breath. Shi, I almost did it again… No more pills. Looking around as the hall comes back into focus, he determines it’s only been a few minutes. He climbs to his feet, ignoring the painful complaints from his leg and gut. Time to find something to do, being idle is dangerous. He gives the bridge one last glance before turning to the galley.

Rowan, Merz and Jayne are in the kitchen cooking, Inara just off to the side making tea. Jayne cooks? Wouldn’t have guessed that in a million years. Damon makes his way down the stairs and heads for the kitchen to get a drink.

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

MANIACNUMBERONE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 1:40 AM

Malachi's Move
Location: Floating in space... just outside Slight's ship.

A sudden convulsion spasms his body. Malachi holds up his right arm, examining his life support readouts. Everything was fine with the suit. That gorram sunofalizardsniffer. He's one of ... NNggggaaaaooowww! He screams into the empty void around him.

EM

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 6:07 AM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Jayne really wants to push Inara for more. Not that he cares about whatever has her mind completely rapped - bad moods and love affairs come and go, but Jayne only sees a deeper problem in her now. But she seems alright.

"Jayne, that bun dough looks good." He turns back to the food preparations, remembering that he is supposed to be watching Rowan. "If you could cut that into three-by-three squares and start putting them on a pan - they have to set a bit in the oven before we start stuffing."

Jayne nods in acknowledgement. He unlatches the knife drawer and chooses a small blade. "Whatcha usin' fer glaze? We don't got no Hoisin sauce on board, an' I wouldn't know how to make it from scratch." Jayne lays the knife on the counter, the squares all sliced with precision, and gets a pan down.

MERCEDESTROY

Saturday, October 30, 2004 6:25 AM

LOCATION - GALLEY As ...

Merz is paused, just waiting for the next instructions. The protein is completed to specifications. She waits for ROWANs distraction to end, and soon enough Rowan turns back to her.

ROWAN
"Umm... okay, good. That's good. Now... I don't suppose you know anything about glazing?"

MERZ considers her words. She passes them through the data base, verifying definitions.

Glaz"ing\, n.
1. The act or art of setting glass; the art of covering with a vitreous or glasslike substance, or of polishing or rendering glossy.

2. The glass set, or to be set, in a sash, frame. etc.

3. The glass, glasslike, or glossy substance with which any surface is incrusted or overlaid; as, the glazing of pottery or porcelain, or of paper.

4. (Paint.) Transparent, or semitransparent, colors passed thinly over other colors, to modify the effect.

~ hum. context would indicate that none of these items have any bearing upon current activities. Prog indicates that number four is closest in possibility … and i am sure that the answer is still a negative one …

Slowly, MERZ shakes her head. No.”

Tensions in the room appear to be abating somewhat. Merz is still not at all sure what she is participating in, nor any idea what Bao actually is. Suspects some sort of food item, since kitchen is involved. Not at all sure what she is doing involved in this project. But it is better than being alone.

ROWAN
"Nevermind. You hang out for a second. I'll do the glazing and you can stuff later, hâo le ma? Jayne, that bun dough looks good. If you could cut that into three-by-three squares and start putting them on a pan - they have to set a bit in the oven before we start stuffing."

EOM

OOC: edited to add Rowan's last remark to Merz.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MANIACNUMBERONE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 7:35 AM

Book's Move
Location: His quarters

I'll join them soon enough. The Shepherd's was a different way of doing things. A little slower maybe, a little more time spent in the planning, a little more methodical at times (he liked to think)... perhaps some folks believed him doddering... all the better. It would only make what he had to do all that much easier when the time finally came.... if it ever did.

He had left his door open to listen to the words floating down the stairway from the galley. Sounded like many of the ship's compliment were gathered there. He leaned back into his room, from the odd position he had adopted for a moment, while trying to listen up the stairs and down the hall.

I care too much about these people. He thinks as he walks back to his small counter and looks into the mirror. The soulful eyes staring back at him. I'm certain they all suspect me of some evil or other... and some of them may be right, but I can't tell them who I am, who I was... what I've done. They'll...

Book looks down at a makeshift burner and brew-pot steeping a slightly oxidized tea. He pours himself a cup of the rare leaf blend and sits down on his uncomfortable sleeping pad. An odd contrast. The beautiful, green leaf unfurling in his cup, complimented by memory-inspiring flavor of the tea (still bearing the faint essence of the lillies that grew close to the plants)... and this uncomfortable pad.

Sipping his tea in solitude, Book tries to picture where Simon might be, what he may be doing, and who may be coming for him.

EM

CAPNRAHN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 9:34 AM

LOCATION - BRIDGE
As...

Out of the corner of his right eye, Mal notices Damon loitering just outside the Bridges lock. Mal looks Zoe in the eye and winks with his left eye - the one he knows Damon cannot see. The message is clear to Zoe - Follow my lead. He then glances at Wash and crooks the left side of his mouth in a very lopsided grin. It said "follow through, you'll enjoy it". Then in a deep tone that carries all the way to the galley. As a whisper, yes. But if a body was in the fore hall or the steps down to the galley, it could be clearly heard. Those in the Galley would have to really strain to get the subject. They could only tell that Mal was in "something's gone gorram wrong with the plan" mode of speech.

MAL
... looking determined and his voice drops an octive...
"Yep, 'bout that Damon fella, Doc told me some interestin' data about that boy before our Simon went space crazy an jumped ship."
... Mal nods as it seems Wash and Zoe to be understanding which direction he is going and willing to push forward too ...
"First off, Wash, lock down both shuttles NOW, doors and all."... Mal hits the ALL intercomm...
"Book, Mr Thorne would you be so kind to hustle into the cargo bay and secure the sounding charges and the armory. Book maybe you could say a prayer over them bang sticks."
... Mal knows Book will get the point and may participate as well. Positive also was that Mr. Thorne would figger it out too. Stress need to be relived after all. He clicks the comm off. His voice drops even further ...
"Our Damon is a runner. Doc says he is rabbitin' from ownership. You know how I feel about slavers - their plat is as good as the next."
... Mal slowly closes both eyes and opens them again in the pattern that meant 'you know what I really mean' to Zoe ...
"So a bit back, after I had a yap with him, I got curious and Cortex'd the boy. Now I know who he is, where he popped from and just who wants him back. The other purty bit is there is a hefty bounty on this youngsters head - must be PRETTY rammin' important."
... Mal shakes his head with a manic grin...
"This here trip is provin' to be more profitable by the minute."

He hits the ALL intercomm again.
"Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."
Mal wonders if Jayne'll get the attempt to soften the severity their past tete-a-tete and get it enough to know what to do with Damon. Leaning back on the bulkhead, Mal waits with an expectant twinkle in his eye. Being a mean mean man had its perks. Would be interestin' if the boy would learn anything. At the very least how to fade better while droppin' eaves.

EOM

SQUEE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 12:14 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Damon steps off of the stairs leading down the galley, but before he can get far, Mal’s low voice trailing from the bridge catches his attention.

MAL
"Yep, 'bout that Damon fella, Doc told me some interestin' data about that boy before our Simon went space crazy an jumped ship."

A frown crosses Damon’s features, wondering what the heck the doc could know from removing a couple bullets. He almost stops to look, but doesn’t. He slows to a halt, out of sight of those on the bridge and stands casually by the door.

"First off, Wash, lock down both shuttles NOW, doors and all."... Mal hits the ALL intercomm...
"Book, Mr Thorne would you be so kind to hustle into the cargo bay and secure the sounding charges and the armory. Book maybe you could say a prayer over them bang sticks." The com switches off.

Damon’s frown deepens, now accompanied by a flash of fear. Trouble. There’s going to be trouble… His mind is already racing. There are others in the room, most have noticed him, but can they hear Mal? He starts to move forward again, but doesn’t get far.

"Our Damon is a runner. Doc says he is rabbitin' from ownership. You know how I feel about slavers - their plat is as good as the next."

Damon only barely feels the blood drain from his face. Oh shit… oh shit oh shit oh shit… He stands there, only a foot away from the door, unable to move. Tzao gao, bu hao...

"So a bit back, after I had a yap with him, I got curious and Cortex'd the boy. Now I know who he is, where he popped from and just who wants him back. The other purty bit is there is a hefty bounty on this youngsters head - must be PRETTY rammin' important. This here trip is provin' to be more profitable by the minute."

More blood drains, leaving him whiter than a sheet. He knows… Oh shi… Oh God, I’m going to die… no, I better die. I can’t go back there… Damon moves back half a step, away from the people in the kitchen, his heart pounding in his chest. He looks up at them, fearful eyes on the verge of panic. The com sounds again.

"Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."

Damon’s gaze locks onto Jayne. No. The change is instantaneous. The fear disappears in a wave of lethal rage. His features darken, his posture stiffens, muscles coiled ready to fight. And for the first time since coming aboard, his eyes take on the unbroken savagery that has been lying dormant- the dark look of a man witness to much more killing and brutality than his age would betray. You come near me, you die.

He slowly backs up, eyes focused on the four people in the kitchen, ears focused on the people on the bridge. His hand is already groping at his weapons belt, but the holster is empty. See, now this is why I always stay armed cuz you never know when some hwoon dahn will try to screw you over.

Eyes now mostly on Jayne, Damon continues slowly backing toward the rear exit, keeping the table between them, waiting for Jayne to make the first move.

Knife in my boot, pocketknife in pocket... is that a gun satchel on the table?

Tzao gao, bu hao... = damn, not good
Hwoon dahn = bastard

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CAPNRAHN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 3:50 PM

All the while he was spinnin' this particular yarn, Mal was a cogitatin'.

Ever since Damon came on board he reeked of fear and had the eyes of the hunted. That little stunt in the galley underlined the fact that Damon needed to flush that fear out the lock.

Internally Mal laughs ironically, 'His rear iris is so clenched, I bet he could snip fine silk thread.'

Damon was plainly running from something - that look in his eye as he swung his shooter around in the galley was proof of that. A man can't run every day every second - death was always right around the corner. Damon needed to learn to live free, not be bound by another's reach.

'Plus we'll all see how he reacts under the pressure of extreme fear. Need to know if he's got the gumption or not.'

Sometime you had to put pressure on a body to refine it. If Damon could not keep his head, maybe he didn't belong on Mal's ship. A slip of one could put the whole ship in mortal danger. And Mal had had enough of that from the past year. Jayne's betrayal still stung, but Mal was sure that Jayne understood JUST where the line was now. Damon had to be shown too - but also shown that he was accepted and safer with folks to watch your back.

Burnin' out the constant fear should be the first step in that. Damon was carrying around that fear like a bloody letter upon his breast. Live in the now and sort out the future as it comes.

Tracy's face, as he lay dying, flashed into Mal's head.

'I can see a lot of Tracy in Damon. I just hope I ain't carrying the bullet with Damon's name, as well. I don't want ta have ta shuffle off another person I am beginning to care ...'

The word 'care' makes a connection and suddenly the face that swims in Mal's mind is Inara's. His heart thuds six times before he can get it under control. He tries to divert his own attention by concentrating on the prank side of this 'venture.

Mal chuckled inside 'If ole Damon had come into the Bridge and not malingered outside like a whupped puppy, I wouldn't to have ta take advantage this situation.'

EOM

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

CHANNAIN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 3:53 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Jayne nods in acknowledgement. He unlatches the knife drawer and chooses a small blade.

JAYNE: "Whatcha usin' fer glaze? We don't got no Hoisin sauce on board, an' I wouldn't know how to make it from scratch."

The very idea causes Rowan to shudder. She can still hear Fa-Zhou Huan's shrill voice echoing from the kitchen in her father's house, condemning the evils of additives in store-bought sauces. How a woman whose name meant happiness could spend her life causing nothing but hell on earth has always been a mystery.

ROWAN: "Qù tamade--if I used a pre-prepared sauce in my bao, you'd be treated to the vision of a Chinese banshee bearing a strong resemblance to grandmother Fa-Zhou Huan - Zuxian keneng baowei women - rising up from the floor here to strike me down. I can still hear her screeching at the kitchen servants."

Changing her voice accordingly to a pitch that would cause glass to shatter in despair, Rowan switches to fluent Chinese, but keeps the decibel level down.

ROWAN: "Chop this way, not that way - do not stir so fast - you are to knead the dough, not abuse it - shredding means shredding, not pulverizing!" then back to English. "She was a master chef in my grandfather's household. She could make bread out of sand if she had to. Everything I know about cooking I learned from her."

And why exactly is she telling him all this anyhow? Hearing a pan hit the counter behind her, Rowan glances up and sees Damon at the top of the steps leading down from the forward hall. She's about to greet him when the intercom next to her clicks on.

MAL: "Book, Mr Thorne, would you be so kind to hustle into the cargo bay and secure the sounding charges and the armory. Book maybe you could say a prayer over them bang sticks."

What the... what's that all about? Maybe Thorne has finally shown his hand and they've been suckered into a chop shop? She's heard about them, certainly, but never seen one. She isn't all that interested in seeing one up close though. Could be the girl, River, having some kind of fit again--who knew what the workings of an altered mind might conjure up? Rowan has to admit, though, of all the ships she's been on, this one certainly is the first to have such a plethora of entertainment on board.

Then Damon starts acting peculiar. His face goes very pale as his hands flex like he's looking for a tool...or a weapon. As he moves a half a step back as if to flee--and where would he go in space anyway--the hairs on the back of Rowan's neck rise slowly. Glancing at Merz, she can't tell if the smaller woman is perceiving Damon's sudden panic. Troys may not be equipped for that, but can she smell fear?

Then the intercom clicks on again.

MAL: "Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."

Damon's gaze shoots across the galley to Jayne and in an instant Rowan sees the fear turn into something terrible. Rowan has never seen such darkness before, rage mixed with fear and the pure, unadulterated instinct to survive against everything. No matter what.

She's torn. Rowan feels she should jump in, see if she can pull him out of it, yet she's never faced this kind of thing before. She's actually hoping Jayne will take control of the situation. Being bigger and better equipped to handle something like this, even if it's only physically, before Damon does someone or himself an irreparable harm.

EOM

qù tamade = fuck that
Zuxian keneng baowei women - May the ancestors protect us - or Chinese for "Saints preserve us!"

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Saturday, October 30, 2004 4:32 PM

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Temporarily without function, MERZ drifts back into scan mode. She can hear the voices drifting from the bridge. But suddenly MALs voice seems to intensify...

MAL
"Yep, 'bout that Damon fella, Doc told me some interestin' data about that boy before our Simon went space crazy an jumped ship."

His words are serious, his flow is not. What he says, how he says it does not match. Odd. "First off, Wash, lock down both shuttles NOW, doors and all."...

and then over the intercom ...
"Book, Mr. Thorne, would you be so kind to hustle into the cargo bay and secure the sounding charges and the armory. Book maybe you could say a prayer over them bang sticks"

Secure? Secure from what.

Off intercom MAL continues. Merz wishes she were closer, more able to judge his demeanor. But of greater interest is DAMONs reactions. Merz can see and feel and smell his rising panic.

"So a bit back, after I had a yap with him, I got curious and Cortex'd the boy. Now I know who he is, where he popped from and just who wants him back. The other purty bit is there is a hefty bounty on this youngsters head - must be PRETTY rammin' important. This here trip is provin' to be more profitable by the minute."

Apparently Damon can also hear what MAL is saying - his reaction increases - MERZ can all but hear his heartbeat increase. He is going from panic to fear and back again, increasing his own reactions. She does not know what is going on in his head, but his face ... this is not good.

There is still something ... this cannot be what it seems. It is not logical from what she has in her database for Captain Reynolds. She must trust him. She will trust him. She has promised.

The comm sounds again. "Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."

That was the last straw. Merz knows what she sees/smells. DAMON has found his predator place. His eyes go cold and flat. Ah, she knows that look from the inside. NOW he is dangerous, to himself, to this crew. She will NOT allow any injury, she has promised.

She judges angles, necessities, and orders. Unaware, she almost crouches, head lowered, muscles tensing. Her eyes are almost a mirror of Damon's; cold as ice and dead. Then she springs forwards. Unmindful of any observers in the area she leaps nimbly to the countertop, one foot set precisely between the bowl of shredded protein and an open bottle of soy sauce. She dives through the opening over the bar and into the dining room, rolling to her feet as soon as her shoulders touch the deck.

DAMON entered through the fore hatch and is slowly edging towards the rear hatch. MERZ sprints towards the aft hatch, rounding the table and placing herself in his path. She holds there, just beyond the edge of the table, arms at her sides but hands raised to defend or restrain if needed. Her knees are bent ready to spring in any direction - but she takes no action. The next move is DAMON's. She will not let him leave the room. She will not let him hurt anyone.

EOM

OOC: This is the one I had to edit. Sorry about that.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

CHANNAIN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 4:49 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Then in the blink of an eye, Merz takes action. Before Rowan is fully aware of how it happens, Merz is out of the kitchen, on the table, then standing poised between Damon and the door, ready for anything. Realizing her jaw is hanging open again, Rowan has only one thought.

ROWAN (softly to herself): And you didn't catch any of that on vid? Cao! Ni shi bai chi!

EOM

Cao! Ni shi bai chi! = fuck, you are such an idiot!

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 5:49 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Jayne does nothing but nod throughout Rowan's explanation of why she'd never use store bought sauces. His mother was the same, of course, not with that shrill voice, and for entirely different reasons. Jayne never learned those secret recipes since he was a man. That was the legacy of the female line of the family.

The intercom crackles on. Jayne stops his work and listens. His attention is gradually brought to Damon, who stands across the galley looking a little more than surprised and dismayed.

"Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."

Damon's gaze locks onto Jayne, who has been staring at him and shifting himself around the kitchen island. That's the look of a trapped man.

Merz adds to the tension as she springs to take position to block the rear exit. Was she helping? He thinks so. But he wasn't sure about Rowan. "'Nara, wouldja take Rowan to the ladies room or somethin'?" he says quietly.

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 6:03 PM

Standing tall and relaxed with his hands on each side of his belt, Jayne steps towards Damon slowly. Nice and calm. "I think the captain'd like a word with you."

CHANNAIN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 6:09 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

JAYNE: "'Nara, wouldja take Rowan to the ladies room or somethin'?"

Glancing behind, Rowan watches Jayne move out to follow the order, going slowly toward Damon. She feels Inara's hand on her arm, but doesn't move. She wants to see this through. Ridiculously, she contemplates using the cue stick to fend Jayne off, but once that was done, where would they go? They're out in space, and the shuttles are all locked down, not that they'd get very far. She's no pilot and not sure Damon is either. They'd end up sitting there staring at the controls and each other, feeling like idiots.

The whole thing is playing out like some odd little vid comedy.

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SQUEE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 7:03 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Before Damon can more than a couple feet, Merz is out the kitchen over the table and standing between him and the door. Their eyes meet. She’s on their side…

Okay, stay cool. Think. All exits are blocked, save one. All flight capabilities are blocked- save one. Gotta get to the bridge. Hostage would be nice… Shit, what am I going on about- I don’t have a chance in hell… Still, gotta try; giving up would be worse than a death sentence.

Damon’s eyes meet Rowan’s for a brief moment and he breathes an internal sigh of relief. She’s on his side- at least for now. Could be she just didn’t hear everything and will change her mind when she does. But now he has a chance- a small one. Merz will likely be a problem…

Jayne starts moving forward, slowly.

JAYNE: "I think the captain'd like a word with you."

“Jien tah duh guay! I see how it goes… let the goushi buru sucker work all day and then screw him over. Meh, tah mah duh hwoon dahn…”

In one swift movement, he pulls the knife from his boot and grabs the gun satchel from the table- the knife in his right hand, satchel in his left. He slowly backs away from Merz, moving toward the front hall. He glances quickly at Rowan and then the kitchen knives, hoping she’ll catch on.

Jien tah duh guay = Like hell
goushi buru = lower than dogshit/lowest of the low
Meh, tah mah duh hwoon dahn. = Mother humping son of a bitch

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CHANNAIN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 7:21 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Damon moved pretty fast to pull the knife and grab the satchel all at once. When he gives her that look of expectation, Rowan suddenly gets a bad feeling. He's expecting her to do something - to take one of the kitchen knives and go after Jayne with it? Jayne's twice as big as her and tetchy about her for whatever reason as it is. He's also considerably less inclined to be in any way accommodating.

If he gets it in his head that Damon is going to do something to any of the crew, he could snap Damon's neck like a twig. By the same token, Jayne's faster than he looks and if he were to stop her and grab her arm, doing her some manner of harm, she wouldn't be able to play in the tournament.

Still, it's Damon.

ROWAN: "Hey da jia huo! You ever consider finding someone your own size to pick on?"

Not knowing what in the 'verse she's going to do, she switches the stove off and steps around to the other side of the table, behind Jayne.

EOM

da jia huo = big fella

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 8:10 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

"I see how it goes... let the goushi buru sucker work all day and then screw him over."

Jayne is about to let out a careless comment such as "looks like" or "least yer only losin' half a share", but Damon interrupts him by slipping a knife from his boot and lunging for his gun satchel. Jayne's hand slips onto the handle of his pistol.

Damon's eyes flicker over towards Rowan. Gan ni niang, she could really complicate matters, and Jayne had more than just a hunch that she would.

Sure enough, after a moment he hears, "Hey da jia huo! You ever consider finding someone your own size to pick on?"

He repositions his stance to accommodate two hostiles. With two quick motions of the thumb, the holster strap is popped off and the safety is disengaged. His hand remains there with the weapon in its holster. "How's about you back on up outta there an' let us handle this all quiet like."

MANIACNUMBERONE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 8:26 PM

Book's Move
Location: His Quarters

Book pauses in mid-sip and cocks his head to one side. The intercomm clicks on and the Capn comes over... He wants me in the Cargo Bay? ...and he sounds urgent. Yet, what could make him sound like that, now? There's been no warning signal of an incoming ship. All these thoughts float through his mind as he stands up, deposits his cup on the counter next to the burner and exits in a rush. Grabbing up his Bible on the way out his door, he hurries into the Cargo Bay to find no one there. The locks on the armory cabinet doors completely safe, the sound charges intact.

EM

MERCEDESTROY

Saturday, October 30, 2004 8:29 PM

MERZ move

LOCATION - DINING ROOM As ...

That has done it. DAMON has crossed the line, pulled a knife and snatched what may or may not be working firearms. MERZ believes the guns are useless, she cannot smell propellant – but the knife is not to be endured. He is sidling towards the front hallway. He glares at her and then shifts his gaze to ROWAN.

MERZ trusts ROWAN to stay out of this, does not concern her. DAMON ... Damon will not understand her actions. So be it. She has too often followed her own path.

Around her everything slows. She knows that is not true – it is a perceptual anomaly having to do with relative velocity between two moving bodies. She flashes forward towards DAMON, not to harm. Not to injure. But he will not be allowed to act.

Her right hand takes his left wrist in a grip of iron. Her left grasps his right. She locks them both in position, holding him absolutely immobile. She looks directly into his eyes, her gaze mirroring his own cold eyes.

MERZ
“STAND DOWN!"

In the background she can hear ROWAN warning someone off, prog indicates JAYNE is likely. No, must not interfere, must not risk …

MERZ
ROWAN. You stand down too. No errors here. Wait. Trust. There is something … questionable here. Don’t, please."

She turns to JAYNE. “Call Captain Reynolds. NOW!”

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 9:12 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Once again, Merz's lightning moves are only caught peripherally as Jayne's attention is focused elsewhere.

Jayne sidesteps over to the forward portal and leans in to shout, "Cap'n! Looks like Damon an' Rowan are a little nervous 'bout seein' ya. You wanna come down here with Zoe 'nstead, or should I drag 'em up there?"

He keeps a wary eye on Rowan.

SQUEE

Saturday, October 30, 2004 9:37 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Jayne repositions his stance to accommodate two hostiles. With two quick motions of the thumb, the holster strap is popped off and the safety is disengaged. His hand remains there with the weapon in its holster.

Damon notes Jayne’s hand on the gun, safety off. Hopefully, he knows that dead bounty collects no coin- least not nearly as much- and will be hesitant to use it- though if things go bad, it might be better if he didn’t know.

JANYE: "How's about you back on up outta there an' let us handle this all quiet like."

“Yeah, you-”

Suddenly, Merz is in front of him, moving too fast for him to react to. Her right hand takes his left wrist in a grip of iron. Her left grasps his right. She locks them both in position, holding him absolutely immobile.

His first attempt is to simply pull away, but he can’t. His fist tightens around the knife, refusing to let go of what now seems to be his only hope. “NO! Let go, you liou koe shway duh biao-tze huh hoe-tze duh bun ur-tze!!” His heel comes down on Merz’s foot, followed by a hard kick to the shin. Still she doesn’t move. His pulse races, heart thundering in his ears.

MERZ
“STAND DOWN!"

“PISS OFF AND LET GO!!”

This can’t be happening… I’m dreaming, I fell asleep somewhere… Shit, no, I can’t go back…

Merz turns to JAYNE. “Call Capatin Reynolds. NOW!”

Desperation begins to set in, clouding all coherent and logical thought. He pushes, pulls, kicks, all the while yelling all the Chinese curses he knows. But still Merz doesn’t move. It’s like he’s handcuffed to an iron wall… The fear is back, slowly replacing the anger. But still he pulls, beads of sweat running down his face as he strains against Merz.

“Tzao gao, let me go!”

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CAPNRAHN

Saturday, October 30, 2004 9:40 PM

Mal hears a commotion in the Galley, he heads for the gangway at a spirted mosey. By eye he collects Zoe. Then he speeds up to a power walk.

Mid way he hears Merz say "STAND DOWN". Damon yell "TZAO GAO LET ME GO!" and then Merz again - "Call Captain Renyolds NOW."

EOM

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

INARAESQUE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 12:14 AM

Inara's move

LOCATION - GALLEY Where else? ;)

Mal's voice rumbles from the bridge and Inara sighs softly to herself. Rowan isn't wrong about 'one thing in particular' preying on her mind: it's a little simplistic to say that it's only the... situation with Mal -- which, lashî Rowan seems to have perceived -- that is bothering her. But... the other woman's not wrong, which is a strange, horribly naked sort of a feeling.

She's gathering a couple of cups, a tray -- the tea has almost drawn -- when the com clicks on. Mal's voice filters through, and it is absolutely plain that something is not right. Tianna, she thinks, what now?

"Book, Mr Thorne would you be so kind to hustle into the cargo bay and secure the sounding charges and the armory. Book maybe you could say a prayer over them bang sticks."

Mal's involving Rosie in the emergency? Inara's tension rises a notch, knowing all too well Mal's opinion of her client... She sets the breakables down carefully, adjusts the girdle of her robe, tightening it. The atmosphere in the galley has changed noticably from almost calm and friendly to tense.

Damon, in particular, looks like a cornered animal.

Intercom: "Jayne, I need you to herd that Damon fella up, step level priority."

That would, perhaps be why.

The cornered-animal look on Damon's face turns frightened, frightening. Ugly, dangerous and near-feral. Mal had better have a good reason for this, Inara thinks. Is the boy a threat to them all? Why would Mal broadcast it over an open com? It makes no sense. If the boy's a threat, why give him warning? Why give him a potential opportunity to take a hostage, to hurt someone?

Merz is the first to move on Mal's command -- again, a wave of nauseous-horrible irrational jealousy (stop it, Mal wouldn't!) -- springing like a jaguar, blocking the exit from the Galley. The movement was almost inhuman, but that's not Inara's first concern here. Lines in the sand are being drawn rapidly, and it's worrying. What's going on, Mal? Inara thinks, her eyes heading to the fore corridor, expecting to see Mal strutting painfully down to take control of the situation. But he's not there yet.

Beside her, Jayne looks over to Damon and Inara tenses a little for both of them, her protective instincts split between the two men. Jayne, thankfully is calm, moving slowly, not provoking anything further, but calm doesn't necessarily mean 'not dangerous'. She feels Rowan tense, and Jayne does, too.

"'Nara, wouldja take Rowan to the ladies room or somethin'?" Inara gently takes Rowan's arm; she doesn't plan on leaving the room, and can't imagine Rowan wanting to either, but for now she'll keep trusting Mal and Jayne...

"I think the captain'd like a word with you." Jayne's voice is low, almost gentle. Inara shivers a little, nervous, the tension in the room almost suffocating.

Damon erupts, pulling a knife, going for a satchel on the table, giving Rowan a meaningful look. "Jien tah duh guay! I see how it goes… let the goushi buru sucker work all day and then screw him over. Meh, tah mah duh hwoon dahn..."

Inara can taste potential bloodshed on the horizon, but she's holding back. Rowan slips her grip -- not surprising, Inara wasn't properly trying to restrain her, more keep her calm, but Damon and Rowan seem to have ended up quite close... This could be awkward.

Again, Inara looks to the front stairs, trying to will Mal into making an appearance to sort out the chaos his announcement has caused.

"Hey da jia huo! You ever consider finding someone your own size to pick on?"

Inward eye-roll. "Rowan, dear, you're not Jayne's size," Inara points out gently. "I think we should

MERCEDESTROY

Sunday, October 31, 2004 12:20 AM

MERZ move

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

She is strong, no doubt about it. But DAMON is taller than her, broader in all directions. She can hold him, but she cannot hold him still. Not without injuring him.

Her abilities were never geared for restraint ... His struggles are beginning to buffet them both, a perceptible sway in all directions. Still MERZ is frozen in her place, preventing DAMON from any real movement in any direction. She takes each blow landed on her with no reaction. She leans back against every pull, stands firm against every push.

A single bead of sweat drops down the side of her face, the only indication of the struggle that she shows.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

CAPNRAHN

Sunday, October 31, 2004 12:42 AM

Mal reaches the Galley lock as Jayne yells, "Cap'n! Looks like Damon an' Rowan are a little nervous 'bout seein' ya. You wanna come down here with Zoe 'nstead, or should I drag 'em up there?"

MAL
"I'm right here!"
As he enters to the top of the fore hatch stairs.
He surveys the little passion play that was incited by his test of Damon. Apparently the boy had failed-he was too unstable to trust. A savvy person would play casual and move slowly, evaluate potentials -- it was a wonder Damon had survived to this point.

The niggling doubt about Damon is now a full fledged worry. Kid musta not kept his head in a crisis. Didn't the little hwoon dahn remember ANYthing from the past few days.

Like the fact nearly EVERYBODY on Serenity was on the run from the Feds and not Alliance friendly enough to collect the Big bounties, you had to deal with the Marshall's. Jayne had learned THAT harsh lesson. Suddenly Book's com unit springs into his mind -- no, Mal trusted Book. Damon was no where near Book's caliber of honor. Now if Damon hurt anybody cause of this, Mal had seriously misread the boy.

MAL looks quizzically at the assembly and says "WhaHuhWho ... I only wanted Damon. Needed to talk to him. Bout him joining the crew."

Mal now knows that Damon was eavesdropping - if they had a situation - Damon was sure to panic at the first sign of perfidy -- and that could kill everybody aboard Serenity. Better to know from a prank, than in fire-fight with Niska's men or even just Early.

Damon had to go, if this was his standard reaction to sudden twists of events.

Locking eyes brimming with disappointment with Damon's, Mal walks slowly towards him - with his pistol in Mal's left hand.

The whole room seems riveted on Mal. He steps down the stairs slowly and with care. Striding over slowly he lays a gentle hand on Inara's shoulder and nods at her. She seems to be a bit flabbergasted, and automatacally moves aside just enough for Mal to face Damon.

He examines Damon's captured knife and hand closely and with great attention to detail .. slowly. He then leans in and whispers loudly in Damon's ear.

"Been pokin' yer ears where they ought not be? Heard stuff that could be misunderstood have ya? Then panicked ... Panic is a liability. You a liability?" He dosen't allow Damon to answer.

"I don't know a GORRAMED thing about you ... knew you were there dragging you ears where they wernt invited ... and I lied. I HAD thought I saw a spark of potential in you - I suppoz I was wrong."

He steps back and crosses his arms, his stormy blue eyes boring into Damon - spilling over with extreme disappointment and even a little pain.
OOC
Not final draft post - just an idea holder ... tootired to think right.

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

RAVENWHYTEWING

Sunday, October 31, 2004 4:29 AM

Slights move:

Slight slightly mocks Malachi, still speaking into his mind.
Better come back
Suddenly, he starts to feel a backwash. The power he has is limited. Apparently his "death" has limited his abilities. Oh well.
He lets his powers fade, hoping that the threat will not realize he ran out of juice.
Faster, faster, time runs out! Faster, faster, before you scream, before you shout!

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

INARAESQUE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 5:01 AM

Inara's Move.

LOCATION - GALLEY

"Cap'n! Looks like Damon an' Rowan are a little nervous 'bout seein' ya. You wanna come down here with Zoe 'nstead, or should I drag 'em up there?"

Jayne calls for Mal as Inara stands with Damon, trying to soothe the boy's terror. 'An entrance any moment now would be lovely, Mal,' she thinks. Damage control can only be so effective when there is something that desperately needs to be resolved. She can possibly hold this scene together a little while longer, but if Mal doesn't get his pigu down to the --

"I'm right here!" Mal's voice, instead of making her tense up as it has of late, is a welcome relief. Inara doesn't look to the voice, to the footsteps on the stairs, she's holding Damon's gaze, offering what reassurances she can without saying a word.

"WhaHuhWho ... I only wanted Damon. Needed to talk to him. Bout him joining the crew."

'Joining the crew'? There had better be more to this little stunt than that, Inara thinks. She thought Mal above stupid, sadistic little pranks -- particularly the kind that could end with someone getting hurt. Merz, for example, seems to be straining with the struggles of the larger figure she's restraining. There must be more to it...

She feels Mal's approach as much as she hears it, as much as she knew it was inevitable. Facing Damon and Merz, she tries to keep the mixed emotions from playing on her face. Then... his hand on her shoulder. Gentle. Strong. She can feel the warmth of him through the silk robe she wears, and feels the ache inside return full-force, shrugging aside anger and indignance.

Inara lifts her eyes to Mal's -- they're as intense and emotional as she's ever seen them, wild, almost, drowning-deep as ever.
Although his gaze is intensely locked on the boy before them both the silent communication between them is not interrupted. Trust me, he seems to say, let me at the kid. Little nod: Just trust me, 'Nara. The communication is silent, but as plain to her as if he'd spoken aloud.

Wordlessly, she returns the nod, and moves a little to his side, letting him approach Damon. Inara stands just at Mal's elbow to back him up or to play advocate for Damon, if necessary.

Mal examines the knife in Damon's hand closely, too closely, and leans into the younger man. A sudden, horrible vision flashes in her mind: Damon freeing his hand, slashing out at Mal. Cry of pain, blood spattering. She exhales deeply, slowly, pushing the vision away and refocusing on the moment.

Although Mal is whispering, Inara is close enough to hear what's being said:
""Been pokin' yer ears where they ought not be? Heard stuff that could be misunderstood have ya? Then panicked ... Panic is a liability. You a liability?" He doesn't allow Damon to answer.

"I don't know a GORRAMED thing about you ... knew you were there dragging you ears where they wernt invited ... and I lied. I HAD thought I saw a spark of potential in you - I suppoz I was wrong."
This was a test, she realises. What seemed dangerous and a little cruel was merely Mal's protectiveness asserting itself. She relaxes that last little shred of anger at the Captain -- for this incident anyway -- and stands at his side.

He seems genuinely upset at Damon's panicking and proving himself a potential danger to Serenity and those on board: Mal might be a sadistic boor sometimes, but he had a real sense of justice and nobility. If he could help Damon without endangering the ship and crew -- home and family to most of them, herself included if the truth were known -- he would do it. But no one and nothing endangered the little piece of sky Mal had claimed as his own.

She stays where she is, a breath away from Mal, offering silent support.

SAINT JAYNE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 6:30 AM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Jayne stays put, guarding the forward exit of the galley and keeping a firm eye on Rowan since everyone else seems concerned with Damon. He is relaxed - almost leaning up against the wall - and his expression is blank.

SQUEE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 7:34 AM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Damon’s kicking and yelling slows to a quick stop when he sees Inara approaching with her hands held up empty. His whole body stiffens as one of them move toward his face, his dark fearful eyes meeting hers. He tries to pull back, but can’t. He tries to shrug it away but can’t. His breath catches in his lungs as her cool, soft hand meets his hardened jaw. His knuckles around the knife handle are white, though he seems to have forgotten it’s there.

Inara: "Damon... calm down." She modulates her voice as though speaking to a skittish horse. "Let's wait and see what Mal wants. There's no reason to panic, dear. No one's going to let anything happen to you without very just cause."

He slowly releases his breath as Inara removes her hand, his heart feeling like its about to burst from his chest. But the tension between him and Merz remains constant.

"You have plenty of advocates here, no matter what Mal has gotten into his head. Just calm down... and give me the knife. No one's going to hurt you..."

Before he has time to much more than pull a few more lungfuls of much-needed air, Mal’s voice sounds from behind him.

MAL: "I'm right here!" Only a brief moment of silence before he continues: "WhaHuhWho ... I only wanted Damon. Needed to talk to him. Bout him joining the crew."

Confusion flashes across Damon’s face mixing in with the rest of the turmoil. He turns his head to see Mal on top of the steps, watching him. Damon’s gun in his left hand.

This doesn’t make any sense… What the hell is he talking about?

The whole room seems riveted on Mal. He steps down the stairs slowly and with care. Striding over slowly he lays a gentle hand on Inara's shoulder and nods at her. She moves aside just enough for Mal to face Damon.

Damon locks his eyes onto Mal’s and braces himself. For a moment, nothing happens as Mal inspects the knife gripped in Damon’s hand. Again, Damon’s body tenses as Mal leans closer, fear pouring off in the beads of sweat soaking into his shirt, again he tries to move/pull away and again he can’t. Again, again, again… it’s become an automated response, expecting the same result… His gaze meets Merz’s, pleading for her to let him go, and then drops to the floor over Merz’s shoulder as Mal whispers in his ear.

Mal: "Been pokin' yer ears where they ought not be? Heard stuff that could be misunderstood have ya? Then panicked ... Panic is a liability. You a liability?"

What’s he talkin about? Think gorramit! He forces his mind to focus.

Mal: "I don't know a GORRAMED thing about you ... knew you were there dragging you ears where they weren’t invited ... and I lied. I HAD thought I saw a spark of potential in you - I suppoz I was wrong."

Damon feels Mal move away, though his gaze hasn’t moved from the floor. Something is… different, something’s not right. Think… Can’t think… Everything’s too screwed up right now… He takes a long few seconds to glance around, trying to figure out the situation. His breaths slow the slightest bit. Most everyone is standing in front of him or behind Mal and Inara- to Damon’s left. Jayne guards the door to the front hall. Too crowded, all he can think about is getting space. Out of more desperation than anything else, he drops the knife and releases the tension between him and Merz to a gentle pull toward the wall to his right.

“Let me go…” His voice is quiet and all but solid, but his breathing has slowed considerably. He looks at Merz and then Mal, though doesn’t take any more than a few nervous glances. He tries his voice again, sounding more controlled the second time. “Please, just let go…” Merz is the one holding him, but it’s obviously Mal he’s asking.

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CAPNRAHN

Sunday, October 31, 2004 8:24 AM

Mal sees the confusion on Damon's face. Those demons the boy holds onto like family heirlooms must be powerful indeed.

The knife drops to the floor. Mal ignores it.

Damon soft, but more focused calls out to be released.

Mal decides.

"Zoe, please take our young charge in hand fer a moment. Be kind."

He turns to Merz "Move yer stuff to the passenger dorms fer a bit, Spazzer here needs some alone time to collect up his scattered wits. Bunks can be secured."

"Jayne, help Merz shift her gear, the speedier the better, dong ma," a statement, not a question. Mal glances at the gun satchel still in Damon's hand.

"Also, you may want to retreive your property."

Without looking - "Mz. Rowan, hows that bao comin'?"

EOM
OOC: still on autopilot - will fix all my "Idea holders" tomarrow.

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

MERCEDESTROY

Sunday, October 31, 2004 12:14 PM

MERZ move

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

MERZ desires desperately that INARA would have stayed away, remained out of reach of DAMON and his weapon. But DAMONs reaction to her approach is not that of one who would harm her. When she makes contact with him, he freezes, does not so much as exhale until she removes her hand from his cheek. Merz was not listening to her words really, they were not meant for her. But she makes careful note of her pheromones and the tone and rhythm of her voice. Information for the database – that could be very useful sometime.

The tension in the room does a subtle shift. MERZ knows the captain has arrived a split second before he speaks.

MAL
"I'm right here!"

She is obscurely relieved by his entrance. This situation will now be contained. He approaches their little tableau. DAMON continues to struggle. MAL moves closer to them, slowly and confidently. His next words cause a different reaction in DAMON. “... I only wanted Damon. Needed to talk to him. Bout him joining the crew.” She is aware of the impact of those words on DAMON. He is confused now, less certain of the whole situation.

DAMON fights on as MAL eases INARA away, and then comes close, too alachina close to the knife in Damon’s hand. If it had been possible, MERZ would have intensified her grip even further, she has a sudden and unfounded … fear … that Damon would free himself and do Captain Reynolds a hurt. She suddenly realizes the level of trust the captain has just shown her. Interesting.

DAMON moves his gaze to her face, looking deeply into her eyes. She knows what he wants. She cannot give it to him. Until she is released from this duty by a higher authority she will hold until her muscles give out. DAMON knows, and looks away.

The Captain speaks. She listens and records, but her main concentration is on her prisoner, and his reactions. When he releases the knife, she knows a decision has been made. He ceases to fight against her restraint. ”Let me go …” His voice is soft, pleading, and MERZ is aware of … feelings … “Please, just let me go…” She turns her attention to MAL.

MAL
“ZOË , please take our young charge in hand fer a moment. Be kind.”

Turning to MERZ he continues. “Move yer stuff to the passenger dorms fer a bit, Spazzer here needs some alone time to collect up his scattered wits. Bunks can be secured. Jayne, help Merz shift her gear, the speedier the better, dong ma.”

The word is given. Merz releases Damon and steps back. She loses Mal’s next few words as she shifts and puts pressure on her left foot. Just at the moment, Merz rather wishes she had put her boots back on after her bath. She will have to take a look, access the damage he might have done stamping down like that. Nothing she cannot deal with, but should be examined ASAP.

She turns away and moves towards the forward hatch and her bunk. Not sure she needs help – not that much to shift. May want Jayne out of the room for other reasons. Before leaving the room MERZ glances back at ROWAN. … I will return … she mouths at her. There is still cooking to be done and Merz desires to continue to help.

Merz leaves the room and moves towards her bunk, confident that Jayne will follow.

EOM

alachina = unholy, damned in this usage (Nepali)

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

SQUEE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 3:50 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

"Zoe, please take our young charge in hand fer a moment. Be kind."
He turns to Merz "Move yer stuff to the passenger dorms fer a bit, Spazzer here needs some alone time to collect up his scattered wits. Bunks can be secured."

The second Mal turns his attention else where, Merz releases him. For a moment, this seems to be more confusing than anything else that had happened in the last 5 minutes. He let me go? This is definitely a first…

Damon slowly backs up until his back touches the wall, feeling a weight lifted from him in a wave of relief as he gets more room. He rubs his aching wrists, relishing the circulation returning to his hands. He notices the satchel still in his hand, he had completely forgotten it. Jayne approaches and Damon hands it to him without comment. He can feel Jayne’s eyes on him, but he doesn’t look up at him- he’s not ready to deal with them yet. One step at a time…

The last of his adrenaline spent, exhaustion kicks in, but sleep is the last thing he’d be able to do right now. Taking slow, deep breaths, he works to smooth everything out. I’m okay… everything’s fine… If there was ever the smallest doubt as to whether he was awake or not, it’s gone now; dreams never end this good. A slight twitch of a smile crosses his lips for the briefest of moments- maybe someday he can look back on all this shit and laugh. Not today, probably not tomorrow, but someday, hopefully…

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

SAINT JAYNE

Sunday, October 31, 2004 5:14 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY to FORE HALL

Jayne leans forward from his wall and falls into a casual stride around the table. He keeps his stare locked on Rowan as he walks by her, then snaps his head forward and targets his gun satchel. He collects it silently, giving Damon a disappointed look before returning to the fore hall, following Merz.

Once out of the Galley, he speaks. "Did he hurcha much? Maybe I oughta take you to the infirmary. Jus pack up; I'll take yer bags to yer room. You should be keepin' offa that foot."

CHANNAIN

Sunday, October 31, 2004 5:34 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

INARA: "Rowan, dear, you're not Jayne's size."

Rowan gives Inara a clear look of understanding that basically says no kidding, but the companion is already focused on trying to calm the wildcat. Too late, Rowan realizes she should've just stayed back where she was. Tianna - what would Ru have done? He always knew exactly what to say and when to say it; when to step between his volatile sisters and when to leave well enough alone. Apparently, he was the only recipient of that particular gene in the Fa-Zhou clan.

Hearing the pop of the holster strap and the snap of the safety, Rowan stays right where she is. No sense making the situation any worse than Damon seems determined to make it be. Inara's right, there is no reason to panic. Rowan herself still can't escape the idea that Merz is entirely on target with this situation - it still feels like some manner of set up, or even a test. Reynolds is more direct than this. If he's having issue with one of his "hitchhikers", he's the kind of man who would face it himself. No doubt about it, he's definitely a fighter and a leader, the kind that leads by example not arrogant expectation. And wouldn't a leader want to put his people through tests now and again, to assess their skill levels and temperaments?

Rowan waits until Merz is occupied trying to restrain Damon, who actually tries a couple of schoolyard moves to break free. Stomping on feet and kicking shins is no way to break away from anything, Troy or no Troy.

Once attentions are focused elsewhere, Rowan pulls out the hand held, quickly accesses the sourcepad via remote signal and pulls up Spyhopper. Two touches on the tiny screen and the galley microcam is activated again, set to record. Once again, she missed catching Troy-like reflexes, but then again, who knows what else might happen. Seems like something does sooner or later on this ship. Quickly, she tucks the hand-held away again, just as Jayne looks back at her.

ROWAN: (Inwardly) Tianna - did he see?

JAYNE: "How's about you back on up outta there an' let us handle this all quiet like."

Folding her arms, and setting her weight on her right, Rowan returns a look that should tell the big brute that she's staying put. He can do whatever the hell he wants, but she's watching him.

JAYNE: Cap'n! Looks like Damon an' Rowan are a little nervous 'bout seein' ya. You wanna come down here with Zoe 'nstead, or should I drag 'em up there?"

MAL: "I'm right here!"

As those moody eyes take in the entire situation in the galley, Rowan surmises that her information-gathering instincts seem to be bang on after all. Then he focuses on Damon. Inara managed to calm him somewhat - probably more like she put him in shock when she touched him - but he's still on edge. Thank God for Merz - when Reynolds leans in close, Merz is the only thing between Damon getting himself into a worse predicament by maiming the captain. Rowan can't hear what's being said, and hopes that later on she can use the vid from the microcam to figure it out.

As Reynolds moves back, Rowan can see the change as it happens. Damon's confused at first. The flight instinct that had gripped him is still there, but it wanes more quickly than she expected. Slowly, but surely, he manages to relax. Not much, but just enough to lower the tension in the room. Then finally the knife drops with a resounding clang to the deck.

DAMON: “Let me go... Please, just let go…”

Never met a boy so desperate to be free of something, not since the war. In those days it was the fresh-faced boys with dreams of the freedom promised by the shiny dream of independence. This is something else - something infinitely more important. It's as if his life and his very soul depend upon it.

And it's not entirely lost on Reynolds either.

CHANNAIN

Sunday, October 31, 2004 8:12 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Watching Damon back up slowly, Rowan can't escape the notion that she's watching someone with a severe case of claustrophobia coming down from a particularly nasty panic attack. As he rubs his wrists she also takes note of some pretty aggressive scarring, which causes her to frown. It reminds her of the same marks on the wrists of a ship's cook she met about three years ago who had been in prison. If Damon's spent time behind bars - and fairly recently at that - that might explain a thing or three.

Seeing that Merz is about to leave - as ordered - Rowan catches her eye as Merz turns back and easily reads the message that she will return. Giving Merz a warm smile, Rowan nods her own acknowledgement.

Glancing at Reynolds who seems to be watching to make sure everyone's doing what they're supposed to, Rowan decides to go back to the kitchen. Once she's away from everyone, she takes out the hand held and checks the status of the microcam.

SPYHOPPER: Running.

With the memory available on the sourcepad, she could just let it go through the shindig. That's an awfully tempting notion too. There used to be a time when she would have done it and not thought twice about it. After some thought, she touches the screen

SPYHOPPER: Holding.

Slipping the hand held away again, she moves to get the pan Jayne had loaded with "bun" sections and puts them into the oven. She sets the timer for three minutes - just enough to set the protein and make it easier to work with. Getting the tin of scallions, and the garlic she sets them near the wok. Considering she only has garlic powder to work with, however, and not fresh, she decides to go hunting for more. Checking the cupboards again, she comes up with peanut butter, white vinegar, molasses and a true prize - hot sauce bearing a good quality Chinese label. Rowan smiles, her mouth already watering.

ROWAN: "Grandma, eat your heart out."

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Monday, November 1, 2004 1:46 AM

MERZ move

LOCATION - DINING ROOM to MERZ (former) DORM

As they clear the hatchway into the forward hallway, JAYNE says, softly. "Did he hurcha much? Maybe I oughta take you to the infirmary. Jus pack up; I'll take yer bags to yer room. You should be keepin' offa that foot."

MERZ is confused by his words. Jayne is not a teammate, why should her condition concern him? She cogitates and then thinks back. The A.P.E.’s were a team. And they were a crew. And there was a dynamic between them that almost resembled … well no, nothing she has ever seen really resembled her experiences with the TROYs, but …

Can it be that a crew can become - family? What really constitutes ‘family’? She turns these thoughts over in her mind while answering his question.

MERZ
Thank you Jayne, but it is of no consequence. I will verify, but it appears only to be bruised. Your concern is appreciated. This will not take long. I am … packed.

She does allow him to step ahead of her and open the entrance to her dorm for her, and she descends carefully as he steps aside to allow her to precede him. Once down the ladder she moves towards the bunk and frees the floor space for him to follow. She reaches under the bed and places the alicepak and the other bag on the bunk. She places her sunglasses in her left breast pocket, her hat on her head and the gun and belt around her waist. She dons the vest with the long rods nestled in their pouches on the back. That is the extend of her packing and her belongings.

She looks up at JAYNE. That’s it. Ready to go.”

EOM

OOC: small edit to account for one additional belonging, affects no one.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MERCEDESTROY

Monday, November 1, 2004 3:21 AM

Wash's & Kaylee's Move:
Location - Bridge to Bridge Lounge

Mal: "First off, Wash, lock down both shuttles NOW, doors and all."

(Wash does this, not really paying attention to Mal's or the bridge's occupants by-play going on right behind him. He is lost in his own thoughts... Who and why and how were spy monitors placed throughout Serenity, how did Rowan stumble across them, and how did Kaylee miss them? When he looks up from his course work, the bridge is cleared, except for Kaylee... there are some voices coming in from the open door to the bridge, but nothing to be worried about.)

(With a double-take he sees Kaylee is sitting on the floor, behind the navigation/gunnery console... and she appears to be... crying?)
Wash: (to himself): "Uh-oh... Zoe never cries... what to do?" (Louder, to Kaylee): "What's wrong? Did you hurt yourself?... It's ok about the monitors, I guess they're small, and you were never lookin' for them... Please stop crying... help me make you stop..."

**********

MAL's words, tossed off so casually, are still ringin' in her ears. "... before our Simon went space crazy an jumped ship." a reminder she did not need. And then that bit about 'slavers plat bein' just as good as anyone elses', when she remembers him sayin', "... best location for a slaver is the guest of honor at a funeral." He's looking back and forth between Wash and Zoe ... and she don't understand, quite, what is goin' on... He sends Jayne to collar Damon, and what's that all about?

Mal and Zoe leave the bridge and there's shoutin' from the Galley. More bad feelin's ... Her stomach hurts, and Kaylee sits on the deck and curls around the pain... and the pain in her heart.

"What's wrong? Did you hurt yourself ...?" Wash sounds awful concerned. Wonder who he's talkin' to? She looks up to find him looking her straight in the eyes. "It's ok about the monitors, I guess they're small, and you were never lookin' for them... Please stop crying... help me make you stop."

Dear Wash. He's such a softy. She looks up at him, and scrubs the tears from her eyes with her fists, like a small child.

KAYLEE
Oh, Wash, do you think Simon's OK? I'm so worried 'bout him. And all the bad feelin's here on Serenity and shoutin' and Mal and 'Nara tiptoein' round each other like they's land mines. Is it ever gonna get better?"

Wash stands up, and holds out a hand to help Kaylee up. Puzzled she allows him to bring her to her feet.

WASH
“Let’s go sit in the Pilot’s Lounge, and you can tell me all about it. It always gets better. You’ll see.”

EOM

To be continued...

OOC: the Pilots Lounge is the sunken chamber in front of the bridge reached by the forward stairs. There are futons and easy chairs located there, at Wash’s request.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

SAINT JAYNE

Monday, November 1, 2004 5:23 AM

JAYNE - FORE HALL

Merz looks up at Jayne. "That's it. Ready to go."

"Ya din't hafta go an' do that. Hell, I'll prob'ly catch shi just cause you were the one hurt an' not me." Jayne stands next to the ladder with one hand outstretched expectantly for her bag. Merz, however, walks around him and proceeds up the ladder.

Jayne stays for a moment. He looks under the mattress and the bed, in the recesses of the washroom equipment and the night stand drawers. After he is satisfied that no weapons have been accidentally left behind, he returns up the ladder to the fore hall and tries to catch up with Merz.

MERCEDESTROY

Monday, November 1, 2004 6:14 AM

MERZ move

LOCATION – (PERSON) DORMS

JAYNE"Ya din't hafta go an' do that. Hell, I'll prob'ly catch shi just cause you were the one hurt an' not me."

MERZ climbs the ladder one handed, the handles of both bags clutched in her left hand. JAYNE is delayed in his ascent, having taken the time to verify that nothing of interest is left behind in the room. A reasonable precaution, which she would have taken, had she not known the precise location of everything she had brought with her.

MERZ does not wait for him to finish casing her room. Mission Parameters were given: "the speedier the better," and she is obeying. JAYNE catches up with her about halfway through the Galley on the way to the passenger rooms.

MERZ
"No reason you should 'catch shi' for my actions, Jayne. It is my function, to go first. Captain Reynolds is an honorable man. He will understand. This hurt - is nothing."

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MANIACNUMBERONE

Monday, November 1, 2004 7:17 AM

Malachi's Move
Location: In pain

The blood drips from his nose and eyes, his temples throb with the pressure of the vessels constricting. Holding his gloved hands up to his helmet, he considers releasing the catch and ending it all. Damn Blue Sun! He knows what's happening to him, it's happened before, it always seems to happen when someone wants something from him that he doesn't want to give.

Why else do people become murderers, assassins? Aren't they all made to do so, like he was? Aren't their perceptions and inhibitions striped away? It didn't matter anymore. Nothing really did. He was long past caring who controlled him. Malachi hated everything. He hated this man, controlling him. He hated the ones who sent him here after this man. He hated himself. Perhaps this was his end. "I recognize you... your kind at least." He sneered soundlessly into the emptiness, knowing the man could hear him.

------
"Better come back"
------

Malachi considered. This man had already survived the impossible. Twice he had unexpectedly forced the man into a vacuum and twice the man had survived. It was more than likely that regardless of what he did, the man on the ship would survive. The only real choice that remained to him was whether or not he wanted to go on. It would be so easy to let go. An end to the pain. It would be so easy. But he was a survivor. He always had been.

"I come."

As he releases his will yet again to the Blue Sun, he remembers long ago how he tried to close off a part of his mind. Tried to keep it safe from them. A part that grew smaller with each passing year since he was a boy drawn out of school and taken away. The part that was himself. The part that he knew if he lost, it would be his ultimate loss. They broke down every wall though. And now I am what I am.

Inside his mind a deep laugh echoed and the pressure began to subside.

-----
"Faster, faster, time runs out! Faster, faster, before you scream, before you shout!"
-----

Malachi turned with a shot of pressurized air from a vent on his suit and began to float back towards the hatch of the man's ship, and as he did he spoke. "Tell me that you want to kill Book as much as I do."

EM

INARAESQUE

Monday, November 1, 2004 8:57 AM

Inara's move

LOCATION(s) GALLEY, INARA’S SHUTTLE & then back to the GALLEY

Inara remains a breath behind Mal as Damon pleads softly to be let go; her heart goes out to the boy. She stands her ground as Mal dismisses him, sending Merz and Jayne out of the galley, too. Mal seems... weary. Weary as Inara, herself, feels, but he's channelling it into action somewhat. She saw the look in his dark eyes change as he faced down Damon, can see the pain and tension in how he holds himself.

She places her hand gently on the small of Mal's back, before moving away. Bends, flashing a little more leg than she would like, and picks up the fallen knife, setting it on the dining room table. It's then Inara realises that she's cold. Silk, as a natural fibre, does preserve body heat well... but she's still cold. Mal's hand, warm on her shoulder, had been a contrast, and she should really put some clothes on... Especially if she's to be around the crew.

Rosie's not in the galley yet, so Inara slips down the back stairs, along the catwalks, and into her shuttle. She stops, sighs. This place is less of a refuge than it usually is... and it smells strongly of sex. She burns some ylang ylang incense, and watches the tendrils of smoke writhe in the half-light, watches the glow at the tip slowly eat away at the sweet-smelling stick. It's a meditative exercise, and one Inara could all too easily get caught up in.

She crosses to her wardrobe and removes the blouse and skirt that have become her casual wear, the pale skirt with the ruffles from the knees down, the orange embroidered silk blouse with the flared sleeves and the deep v-neckline. Inara hasn't worn this outfit in a while, she notes.

Her hands crush the material convulsively as she remembers why.

Remembers scrubbing Nandi's blood from the ruffles. Remembers her own tears. The last time she wore this was the beginning of the end. She remembers telling Mal she was leaving Serenity: a decision never followed through upon. A decision that had broken her heart and ultimately hollowed out something inside of her, leaving a gaping empty place that she's still trying to fill...

They're just clothes. Don't be stupid. (Except for the fact that, as a Companion, she knows that clothes are often the outward means of expressing an inward state of being, that clothes can frame a person and how others view them. There's no such thing as 'just clothes'.)

She sets the outfit down on the end of her (unmade) bed, resolving not to be silly, and brushes out her hair until it gleams, thick and glossy. Pins it up atop her head, a thoughtless, elaborate twist. Warm water, jasmine soap, and her soft sponge: a quick wash down before pulling on peach lace underthings and her clothes. Necklace, shoes, and she heads back out of the shuttle to rejoin the crew, hoping that things haven't gone to hell in her absence.

She climbs the back stairs again, and stands in the doorway to the galley. Lurking, again. Just quietly observing from the periphery. This is getting to be a habit...

EOM

SAINT JAYNE

Monday, November 1, 2004 2:18 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY to PASSENGER QUARTERS

Stepping quickly through the galley, Jayne waits until no one is talking before he calls out, "The room's clean, Mal."

He catches up to Merz as she begins descending the stairs to the lower levels, where she picks up the previous conversation. "No reason you should 'catch shi' for my actions, Jayne. It is my function, to go first."

"We'll see."

"Captain Reynolds is an honorable man. He will understand. This hurt - is nothing."

"Least I know you're good to have round in a fight. That's gonna make me breath a whole lot easier t'morra." Jayne wasn't spending a lot of concious time thinking about it, but he was becoming comfortable with Merz. This was completely separate from his appreciation of her fine physique and actually went beyond gender. She acted so efficient and with such strength, he could almost consider her "one of the boys".

CAPNRAHN

Monday, November 1, 2004 5:22 PM

ROWAN: "It'll be ready in time for your little shindig, captain. Provided everyone behaves from this point on. I've only started the prep work so far."

... If this woman was part of the skittish behavior Jayne was about, she certainly kept a cool head. Naw, Jayne is readin' wrong - as usual. But still, Rowan doesn't seem to be too riled and he could read in her this - she knew her time was soon coming to choose: to talk straight or not.

Eyes still locked on Damon, Mal is startled when a small cool hand rests on his lower back. ~~Connection~~ A warm sensation spreads from the point of contact, warming his resolve and reminding him of - her ... her strength. Steadied and resolute, his path was solidified. As silently as it was placed there, the hand withdrew.

Movement shifted around Mal in a shifting of colors, smells and indistinct sound. His attention was fixed upon Damon and all else was now inconsequential. Damon had backed up and was rubbing his wrists. His eyes were downcast and his who demeanor was of shock and numbness. A numbness that came from a crash from the heights of an Adrenaline rush.

Mal let him have his isolation for a few moments. Mal ears perked up as he heard the heavy tread of Jayne enter the galley.

JAYNE
"The room's clean, Mal."

MAL
... voice still eerily neutral...
"Excellent. Need to jaw with you -- don't go skippin' off too far."

Mal walks over to Damon and places a hand gently but firmly on his shoulder and squeezes once. Once Damon raises his head, Mal nods over his shoulder to the fore galley entrance. When the kids eyes flicker to the door, Mal drops his hand. Damon's eyes jump back only to see Mal turn and head for the stairs.

As Mal and Merz pass he glances over to her eyes. As they lock, his eyes fill with approval and appreciation. Without hesitation, Mal closes his left eye then his right and opens both together. This is an old military code that said: "Well done solider, carry on". He hope she knows it. And with that Mal was up the stairs and out of the Galley.

EOM

OOC: Sorry - yet another "Idea Holder" bizzy bizzy bizzy today!

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

RAVENWHYTEWING

Monday, November 1, 2004 5:41 PM

Slight chuckles.
Not today. But sometime, perhaps. Call me Puppet-I've actually left the Blue Sun. I have no desire to kill something right now. Let's just say our goal coincides at the moment.
Slight pulls out his pack, extremely tired. This is going to be tough. How is he going to get out of this one?

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

SAINT JAYNE

Monday, November 1, 2004 7:20 PM

JAYNE - PASSENGER QUARTERS back to GALLEY

Jayne follows Merz to the passenger dorms, but she obviously knows where she's going and doesn't need Jayne showing her how to use the door. "Make sure ya give that foot a good lookin' at. Don't want any surprises t'morra."

With that, he turns and heads back up to the Galley. He pauses briefly at the bottom of the stairs to look through the lower levels of Serenity. Not much happening down here. Good. With that, he pounces up the stairs.

SQUEE

Monday, November 1, 2004 7:46 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Damon knows his alone time is over when sees Mal’s boots stop in front of him. He tenses when Mal’s hand comes to his shoulder but he doesn’t make any move to show his discomfort. He raises his gaze, still visibly shaken by the whole ordeal, and locks eyes with Mal- not angry or fearful, just… waiting. Mal nods over his shoulder to the fore galley entrance and releases Damon’s shoulder when he looks. Mal starts walking and Damon knows he’s expected to follow.

Maybe it’s because he’s hurting and exhausted, maybe it’s because he’s still winding down from a familiar fear, maybe it’s because he knows he would have lost it all if this had been real, or maybe it’s simply because he knows that Mal is not Crofton. But whatever the reason, he is feeling unnaturally compliant- as if it no longer mattered what happened.

What are you doing? Come on, snap out of it. Everything’s going to be fine. Tomorrow we’re landing on NH, I’ll be given a job to do, I’m gettin paid…

He starts to follow Mal and winces as pain from his gut shoots up along his broken ribs. He lifts his shirt an inch or two to see fresh blood on his bandage- another reason why thrashing against Merz wasn’t the brightest of ideas.

Oh, shi- Merz…

Damon turns to see Merz passing, with Jayne on her heel. He feels a stab of pain pierce his chest at her betrayal and equally strong is a pang of guilt for hurting her. Women are not to be hurt. Part of him wants to say that she deserved it- anyone who grabs him like that is asking to get something bruised. But he doesn’t believe that. He knows she was just doing her job and now he knows that job has priority over everything else.

Mal’s boots against the metal stairs of the galley pulls his attention back. Time to finally talk. Damon starts walking again, feeling and looking more like himself with each step, ignoring the pain from his injuries as if it was second nature. He follows Mal down the hall and watches him decend into one of the bunks. When he hears Mal touch the floor, Damon follows.

The room is small, simple, undecorated. It has a bed, a chair at a small table and a small sink and mirror with what he knows will be what he calls a space toilet beneath it. No window. He would have traded his bed for a window. Oh well, at least he’ll have his privacy.

He stands with his back to the ladder and watches Mal with an inward sigh. It’s always something…

OOC: edited to have Mal enter first as requested

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CHANNAIN

Monday, November 1, 2004 9:46 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Merz, as predicted, makes quick work of gathering what little gear she does have and marching back through the galley with Jayne tagging along like an oversized puppy. He seems more than a little concerned about Merz's possible injuries during the tussle. Could be da jia huo's got himself a little crush, and if that is the case, some pretty interesting tastes in women.

Seeing Reynolds collect Damon and escort him out of the Galley with Zoe acting as a second guard, Rowan has a deep-seeded urge to go after them and insist on being part of whatever is about to happen. In the same moment she realizes Reynolds would never allow it anyway, so she sends a prayer after Damon instead. For strength, reasoning, and calmness of spirit--he's going to need it.

Back to the Bao. Taking another stainless steel bowl, she starts blending ingredients. Soy sauce first, then the peanut butter - not much, just to thicken but not overwhelm - then the molasses... a little less of that. Vinegar, garlic, sesame seed oil and stir until correct consistency is achieved. Then it's just a matter of adding the hot sauce and pepper until it's just right. Rowan is whisking the sauce base when the oven signals that the first batch of bao bun sections is done. Grabbing a towel, she opens the oven and pulls the pan out, setting it aside to cool. Dipping in the tip of her left pinkie finger, she tastes the base and deems it ready - bland, but ready. She'll wait as long as she can for Merz to chop the scallions - guessing she could make a quick task of it. But not much longer. Bao waits for neither man nor Troy.

A Troy. What is she doing away from her core group, anyhow? The preliminary research had indicated they always worked in a tightly-knit group, although no one was able to confirm the actual number of personnel involved. Robert had taken that project on himself, but he was also in the middle of about twelve others, as well as helping with the co-chair duties of the Revolution at Council. Basically, Rowan had let him have it because she thought his theories were just that side of asinine and didn't want to waste her time with it. Hindsight being twenty-twenty, she concedes that she probably should have taken him a bit more seriously, at least in that respect.

Maybe she'll pick his brain, find out as much from him as she can. Provided Thal has made any headway in finding him. Provided Robert is still alive. She can at least make his last moments worthwhile before she sends him to meet his maker. If she could be sure of complete solitude, she'd consider taking a look at Thal's message, but she can't risk having Reynolds or Jayne coming in and seeing it over her shoulder.

Setting the sauce base aside, she takes down a glass bowl, gets water and some pork bullion and preps it in the nutrowave oven. Pouring that over the shredded protein, she adds a touch of the oyster sauce and stirs that as well, coating the bits.

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 2:39 AM

MERZ move

LOCATION - GALLEY to PASSENGER DORMS

Passing through the galley, DAMON does not look at her. Observation shows he is calmer, although he almost flinches as she passes. MERZ is aware that things are now different between them. How long that will be, she cannot begin to determine.

She does catch MALs eye. As soon as he knows she is seeing him, he gives her a clear indication of his feelings. She knows 4 different types of battlespeak, as well as the A.P.E.s short talk. "Well done, soldier. Carry on."

Without hesitation she returns; closing both eyes slowly, and then rubbing one finger beside her nose while opening them simulatniously. "Aye, aye, sir. Understood." She is ... comforted ... by being under orders, by being understood. By understanding something finally. It is a relief to be in known territory.

She passes out of the galley and into the passenger area. JAYNE leaves her at the stairs and returns to his duties - his final words,"Make sure ya give that foot a good lookin' at. Don't want any surprises t'morra." Interesting. It feels ... sincere.

She locates an empty room and lets herself in. Just another civilian room to her, and a bed she will not use. Once again she distributes her belongings - packed bags under the bed, gun, vest, glasses and hat on top. That done she makes sure the door is closed and strps off her jumpsuit.

There are bruises over the front of both legs and the top of her left foot. She runs careful hands up and down her legs, manipulates the knees and then turns her attention to the foot going over the small bones carefully one at a time. As she believed, nothing is broken or more severely damanged than some minor sub-cutaneous blood. That will re-absorb soon. Pain is not much of an issue; she is good to go.

Dressing once again, she glanced around the room to verify all is as it should be, and exits back into the hallway. Closing the door, MERZ climbs carefully back into the galley and starts towards the kitchen. She was learning how to make bao. This lesson should continue.

EOM

OOC: away from home without access to my stuff. so no formatting to speak of. ROWAN, let her cook and I will let you know when I am talking to the internet once again. Debs

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 3:14 AM

Warning! Severely long-ass post ahead...

ZOË'S MOVE

LOCATION - BRIDGE to GALLEY to CREW QUARTERS

ZOË noticed DAMON hovering outside the bridge from her normal "see everything" position next to WASH. When MAL started spewing what must sound like total nonsense to the rest o' the crew, she takes in his "follow my lead" look and quickly cobbles together the gist - MAL's testing whether DAMON will be a danger to himself or others during the upcoming job.

ZOË nods almost imperceptibly at MAL to indicate she understands where this is going.

ZOË (internally): "Can't say much for his timin' today, but we gotta know - and better to know now, before the shootin' starts, than to find out in the middle, when the boy can cause our folks harm in a panic."

They hear the commotion from the galley, and MAL starts off, ZOË automatically falling in behind him with a quick pat at WASH's shoulder. Almost subconciously, ZOË reaches to check her side holster for the Winchester, then remembers that they've put off their sidearms while in flight. No real reason to worry, though.

ZOË's practiced eye takes in the scene as they reach the galley door: MERZ holding DAMON, ROWAN poised to put herself in harms way, INARA tryin' to calm everyone down, and JAYNE... well, bein' JAYNE. Seeing the knife held in DAMON's hand and the slight stiffening in MAL's back, ZOË takes no time at all to surmise that DAMON's time on the boat is gonna be real limited. Like off at the first stop limited. The boy obviously didn't handle MAL's test well, and was willing to cut anyone who tried to lay hands on. Didn't take a top-three-percent trauma surgeon to see he wasn't someone could be trusted in a hot zone. She sympathizes with the disappoinment she hears in MAL's voice.

MAL (to DAMON): "Been pokin' your ears where they ought not to be? Heard stuff that could be misunderstood have ya? Then panicked... Panic is a liability. You a liability? I don't know a GORRAMNED thing about you... knew you were there draggin' your ears where they weren't invited... and I lied. I HAD thought I saw a spark o' potential in you - I suppoz I was wrong."

ZOË watches the play of emotions over the faces of those present, ranging from confusion to relief. DAMON's knife falls to the floor and ZOË watches as he sags visibly, the fight draining from him.

MAL: "ZOË, please take our young charge in hand fer a moment. Be kind."

ZOË steps forward and gives DAMON a quick once-over, removing the remaining knife from his possession, while MAL continues giving orders. His pocketknife goes into a vest pocket and the boot knife INARA picked up off the floor is retrieved from the table and tucked into ZOË's own boot for the time being. She'd seen JAYNE retrieve his gun satchel, and had no worries on that score.

She finishes tucking the weapons away just as MAL turns. MAL leads DAMON out of the galley and down the fore hall, and ZOË quietly falls in behind them.

END MOVE.

~Astriana~
~Mostly-Invisible Long-Winded Goddess of Inter-Board Communication and Diplomacy a/k/a El Jefe Magnifico's Mistress... of Communications and Harems~

...I'm still free,
You can't take the sky from me.

CAPNRAHN

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 12:03 AM

Location: Last Bunk On the Left ...
8:30 PM / 2000hrs

As...

Mal's face is underlit from the blue'ish sideboard nitelites. Sinister is not even close a description. Lines etched in black and high-lighted blue draws the eye to the tight line of his mouth. Through near slits his eyes glitter and shine as if carved of the blackest and highly polished obsidian.

Mal
... voice deep and very fatigued, somewhat horse...
"Sit ... Lay down ... whatever ya need ta do to. Things are changin', you gotta cogitate on yer next move."
... Mal continues, uncharacteristically giving an explanation to what he normally would just do and not even bother to explain ...
"Power'll be goin' down in a minute, nuttin but the lights. Darkness makes you face yerself." ... unspoken but seen his flashing eyes: "And yer Demons" ...
... indicates hatch above Damon with his thumb...
"Not gonna be locked, but you as much as peek a nose hair above the deck, the rest'll the crew 'll be eatin' long pig for breakfast sausage. Dong Ma."

Without waiting to see or hear Damon, he brushes by brusquely and heads up ladder. He closes the hatch and turns to Zoe.

MAL
...business like, very fatigued and with a gruff sigh-like exhalation...
"Keep it unlocked, but plant a ping grid over the hatch. Set it and this bunks comm circuits to ping my talkie ONLY. Cut power, reroute circuits comms etc. Just keep the air, fresher and lights going. Let him stew in the dark."
... Searches Zoe's eyes...
"I'll come back and assess his state of mind. I got some other business to attend right now."

EOM

Lexicon
Last Bunk On the Left - Ref. to the horror Movie "Last House on the Left". If I got the name right!

Talkie - Archaic form of Walkie Talkie - both words popularized in WW2 referring to a mobile radio unit.

Ping Grid - a device that uses Infrared to make a grid that sends an alarm if the beams are broken. A single source with an expandable frame containing adjustable mirrors. Used to trap Tunnel Rats without blocking hole entrances.

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

ASTRIANA

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 3:53 PM

ZOË'S MOVE
LOCATION - FORE HALL, ABOVE THE CREW QUARTERS
Timestamp: 20:30 hrs (8:30pm AST)

ZOË follows MAL and DAMON down the fore hall to the crew bunk recently occupied - and vacated - by MERZ. DAMON hangs back, allowing MAL to enter the bunk first, then follows. ZOË waits in the hall, knowing MAL will want a few "private" words with the boy. She crosses her arms under her breasts and leans one shoulder against the bulkhead. Knowing MAL will expect to go over it later, ZOË cocks an ear to catch what's being said.

MAL: "Sit ... Lay down ... whatever ya need ta do to. Things are changin', you gotta cogitate on yer next move." MAL pauses, then continues... "Power'll be goin' down in a minute, nuttin but the lights. Darkness makes you face yerself."

ZOË almost physically hears MAL's unspoken words... "...and yer demons..."

ZOË (internally): "Boy must have demons a'plenty to pull a knife on JAYNE..."

ZOË returns her attention to MAL's voice as he continues speaking below.

MAL: "Not gonna be locked, but you as much as peek a nose hair above the deck, the rest'll the crew'll be eatin' long pig for breakfast sausage. Dong Ma."

ZOË hears MAL coming up the ladder and returns to her more attentive stance. As MAL closes the hatch and turns, ZOË preps herself for his next orders, expecting that the first one will be to secure the bunk. MAL sighs on an exhale.

MAL: "Keep it unlocked, but plant a ping grid over the hatch. Set it and this bunk's comm circuits to ping my talkie ONLY. Cut power, reroute circuits, comms etc. Just keep the air, fresher and lights going. Let him stew in the dark."

ZOË stifles her momentary surprise and meets his searching gaze with a sympathetic one of her own.

MAL: "I'll come back and assess his state of mind. I got some other business to attend right now."

ZOË: "Yes, sir."

ZOË pauses for a moment, as if carefully weighing her next words, then turns to the computer interface in the wall and opens the comm to the bridge.

ZOË: "KAYLEE? Need you to rig up a ping grid for one o' the crew bunks for our boy DAMON. I'll be waitin' in the fore hall for ya, so don't dawdle."

ZOË mentally notes MAL's departure while she's giving instructions, but figures she'll talk with him later, once his "business" is dealt with and they have a chance to discuss what to do about DAMON. Still working at the bunk computer interface, she keys the code to turn off the lights for this bunk, then turns to the rest of the tasks that MAL set for her. She locks out the power and re-routes the comm to MAL's talkie, and sets about coding the systems to run only life-support, fresher, and lights in this bunk. This done, she opens the permissions for these few things to be controlled from inside the room as normal.

When these tasks are complete, ZOË settles herself against the bulkhead and waits for KAYLEE to arrive with the ping grid. Keeping alert for sounds from DAMON below, ZOË allows herself to think about the situation at hand.

ZOË (internally): "Hope the boy takes the hint and gets himself worked out 'fore the Cap'n comes back to see him. Such a shame... Seein' a lot o' Tracy in that boy."

END MOVE.

{{OOC: Is bulkhead the right term for where Zoë's standing? And what is it with me and the long posts? }}

~Astriana~
~Mostly-Invisible Long-Winded Goddess of Inter-Board Communication and Diplomacy a/k/a El Jefe Magnifico's Mistress... of Communications and Harems~

...I'm still free,
You can't take the sky from me.

CHANNAIN

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 8:33 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Rowan isn't aware when Merz approaches from the aft entryway, so she's unaware of the presence of an audience when she starts to hum and then sing in a low tone that shouldn't go far beyond the kitchen. The stirring is mostly what brings the ancient song to mind, but it also seems to fit the current onboard climate as well.

"Round, like a circle in a spiral
Like a wheel within a wheel.
Never ending or beginning,
On an ever spinning wheel
Like a snowball down a mountain
Or a carnival balloon
Like a carousel that's turning
Running rings around the moon

Like a clock whose hands are sweeping
Past the minutes on it's face
And the world is like an apple
Whirling silently in space
Like the circles that you find
In the windmills of your mind"

Too bad Thorne isn't in the area. Recalling his operatic aspirations back at the Hera Cary, chances are pretty strong that he would know the next verse. Seeing Jayne return, she switches back to low humming.

Like a tunnel that you follow
To a tunnel of its own
Down a hollow to a cavern
Where the sun has never shone
Like a door that keeps revolving
In a half forgotten dream
Or the ripples from a pebble
Someone tosses in a stream.

Like a clock whose hands are sweeping
Past the minutes on its face
And the world is like an apple
Whirling silently in space
Like the circles that you find
In the windmills of your mind

Finishing up the stirring, Rowan pauses a minute. Closing her eyes, she tips her head first to the left, then the right, listening to the snap and CLUNK of her cervical spine resetting itself. Then she turns, intending to take the seasoned protein to the stove and jumps half out of her skin with a startled squeal when she sees Merz.

ROWAN: "Wode tìan! You're silent as a church mouse, aren't you?"

With a hand at her chest, Rowan takes a deep breath, then waves Merz into the kitchen.

ROWAN: "There's some chopping that needs done, if you're game."

Feeling only half guilty, she takes a scallion from the little tin box and puts it on the Lucite cutting board. Taking a medium-sized knife, she holds it out to Merz with a smile.

ROWAN: "Now THIS you can pulverize."

EOM

OOC: Thank you Dusty Springfield

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SAINT JAYNE

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 9:26 PM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Jayne moves in nice and close to watch Rowan prepare the meal. Almost as if he was trying to steal Rowan's grandmother's secret recipe for bao. He's not entirely focused on the food, though, and keeps glancing up towards the bridge.

SQUEE

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 10:44 PM

River
LOCATION - GALLEY

River walks through the aft hall toward the galley, trailing a hand along the wall as she sings softly. Now that all the excitement is over, it’s safe for her to come up. Not that she was afraid for her safety but she knows everyone else would have been.

“Like a door that keeps revolving
In a half forgotten dream
Or the ripples from a pebble
Someone tosses in a stream…”

She enters the galley, the slightest hint of distress still lingering in her eyes. The whole experience was nothing but one wave of emotion after another. Strongest of all was Damon’s fear, emanating like neon lights in a dark room. And then there was confusion. Most everyone was confused, maybe River more than any of them- having received nothing but thoughts and emotions from everywhere at once with no idea of what was happening. But things slowed down and seem to be going okay again.

She heads for the kitchen, her singing now synchronized with Rowan’s humming.
“Like a clock whose hands are sweeping
Past the minutes on its face
And the world is like an apple
Whirling silently in space
Like the circles that you find
In the windmills of your mind."

River sings the first verse again, as Rowan gives Merz instructions. She slows to a stop when Rowan looks at her, offering a small smile.

I'm not broken, in my dream I win...

CHANNAIN

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 10:54 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

River seems ten times better than when she last saw her. Humming happily, even singing with the song. Rowan can't help the smile and sees the girl's eyes dance.

Feeling Jayne on her left - moving in closer from the sentry position he took up once he got back - Rowan turns to give him a look.

ROWAN: "Are you breathing down my neck to get Grandma's secret recipe or is there something else on your mind?"

Turning back to Merz, she shows her the correct chopping method and lets the girl go at it. The song continues in her head, unbidden, chanting in Xiang's voice rather than singing in her own.

Keys that jingle in your pocket
Words that jangle your head
Why did summer go so quickly
Was it something that I said
Lovers walking along the shore,
Leave their footprints in the sand
Was the sound of distant drumming
Just the fingers of your hand

Pictures hanging in a hallway
And a fragment of this song
Half remembered names and faces
But to whom do they belong
When you knew that it was over
Were you suddenly aware
That the autumn leaves were turning
To the color of her hair

Rowan has to put her hand to the side of her head this time. It's more than the pain this time. Rapid-fire chopping on one side, Jayne's intimidating presence on the other side, the pungent onion smell of the scallion, anticipation of THE TALK with Reynolds a bit sooner than expected.

Why is it that nothing in the 'verse is allowed to ever go smooth?

EOM

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 11:04 PM

MERZ move

LOCATION - GALLEY
As ...

She slips back into the dining area, and around into the kitchen without any fuss. ROWAN is still cooking, stirring the contents of a bowl. Sniffing, Merz can detect the protein and various spices and additives. It smells ... interesting. She also notes the increase of saliva production that scent envokes. Also interesting. Hum... a referent for the term 'mouth-watering' she decides - and a new sensation indeed.

ROWAN is singing softly. MERZ stops behind her and listens. ~ ...singing is appropriate for cooking, ~ she decides. ~ ... I have observed this before ... ~ She memorizes the song, the 'tune', etc. along with ROWANs movements and actions. If this is a total process, then this is necessary for the outcome to be the same.

At the end of the song, and the process, ROWAN stops and works the kinks out of her neck with audible snapping sounds. MERZ desires that it is not necessary to reproduce that part. Picking up the bowl ROWAN turns and is visibly started by her presence. MERZ is puzzled. She has been there long enough, did not ROWAN notice. For the first time she wonders. This has happened before; can it be that they cannot sense/smell/taste/hear her behind them. She knew that civilians are ... limited, but the extent is startling. And yet their strengths are also startling....

While she is puzzling, ROWAN is speaking and she listens on another level.

ROWAN
"Wode tìan! You're silent as a church mouse, aren't you?" She waves MERZ towards the kitchen and a bare piece of countertop. "There's some chopping that needs done, if you're game."

She hands MERZ a knife and places a vegetable onto a protective cutting surface. Rowan smiles at her.

ROWAN
"Now THIS you can pulverize."

MERZ takes the knife. While not entirely sure what is required, she has watched cooking before and believes that she understands what is needed. Starting at one end of the vegetable she makes small, thin slices out of the larger piece. Concentrating on making each piece the same size as the last, she works slowly and methodically. And, because it IS part of the process, she sings. She has remembered a song that ... she hates to admit ... gave her a strange, tight feeling in her chest. Veila used to sing this in her galley and Merz wants to use it. To remember. To see if that odd feeling is still there. She is careful, maintaining the tune and the words, she makes a valiant effort to use her own voice. For the first time.

Nights are getting very lonely, days are very long,
And I am growing weary only, listening for your song.
And old remembrances are thronging through my memory,
Thronging till it seems the world is full of dreams, just to bring you back to me.

There's a long, long trail a-winding into the land of my dreams,
Where the nightingales are singing and the white moon gleams,
There's a long, long night of waiting until my dreams all come true,
And that's the day when I'll be going down that long, long trail with you.

Sometimes I think I hear you calling, calling sweet and low,
And I seem to hear your footsteps falling everywhere I go,
But though the road between us stretches many's the weary mile,
Somehow I forget that you're not with me yet, when I think I see you smile.

There's a long, long trail a-winding into the land of my dreams,
Where the nightingales are singing and the white moon gleams,
There's a long, long night of waiting until my dreams all come true,
And that's the day when I'll be going down that long, long trail with you.

She finishes the song, and the task at nearly the same time. Yes, that same 'feeling' has occured and in some obscure way Merz is pleased. If the same effect is present, she must have performed it correctly. And her thoughts turn to them, her friends.

She turns to ROWAN, trying a smile on for size.
MERZ
"Next?"

EOM

OOC: "There's a Long, Long Trail, Stoddard King and Zo Elliott.

If Justice is the

MANIACNUMBERONE

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 11:08 PM

Book's Move
Location: Cargo Bay to Infirmary

Book looks around at the empty bay. Only thing around here that needs tending is me. He thinks as he looks down at his clothes and is reminded that he needed to change a long time ago. He walks back to the infirmary and clicks on the comm.

------- In the fore hall
MAL: "Sit ... Lay down ... whatever ya need ta do to. Things are changin', you gotta cogitate on yer next move." MAL pauses, then continues... "Power'll be goin' down in a minute, nuttin but the lights. Darkness makes you face yerself."

The comm crackles and Book's voice rumbles hollowly over it. "Captain... what's going on?"

ZOË almost physically hears MAL's unspoken words... "...and yer demons..."
-------

back in the infirmary
Book waits next to the comm and only silence follows. Looking up through the ceiling of the infirmary, he wonders what's going on up there. Leaving the comm behind, he starts to walk down the passenger hallway to his room. ...and River... so lost in all her knowledge. I can't forget that River needs me too. Simon entrusted her safety to me.

EM

MERCEDESTROY

Thursday, November 4, 2004 12:00 AM

Blended Post - WASH and KAYLEE

LOCATION - PILOT'S LOUNGE

KAYLEE allows WASH to lead her down the steps and to his ratty old futon. Once he seats her WASH retreats to the far side of the futon and seats himself also. Now that he has her there, he has no idea whatsoever what comes next.

KAYLEE sighs. "It's just... things is so confusin' right now. I just know Simon is in some kinda trouble, but I cain't prove it, and cain't do nuthin' 'bout it. And that's hard. You been listenin' to everyone lately? Seems there's just so much that's goin' wrong or strange. I'm afraid 'Nara gonna think about leaving again... and I don't want that either. "

She scoots over next to WASH and leans her head on his shoulder. Warm tears drip on his shirt.

WASH sits, straight and stiff. ~ OK, this is an unsettlin' development. Gee I hope my ever-lovin' Zoe understands this. ~ Tentatively he reaches around with his left hand and pats her on the back. "It'll be ok Kaylee. It will get better soon. It always does."

They both sit silently for a time, just the two of them, far away from the conflict and confusion. A respite for them both, those gently souls. But time moves on, and so must we.

There is comotion, and footsteps. Distant shouting. And finally, over the intercom.

ZOË
"KAYLEE? Need you to rig up a ping grid for one o' the crew bunks for our boy DAMON. I'll be waitin' in the fore hall for ya, so don't dawdle."
KAYLEE looks up at WASH. "That's me. Guess I gotta run." She reaches up and pats his cheek gently. "I surely appreciate you takin' some time with me. Feel better. Zoe is a lucky woman."

She rises and climbs the steps. WASH watches her go. "Well, I am glad she feels better. Wish I knew why. Then I would know how to do it again."

Once back on the bridge she heads out into the hallway, retrieves her toolbox and heads back to the engine room.She knows what a ping grid is. MAL described it to her one time and it sounded kinda interesting. Now, building one from scratch is gonna be a challenge. But she's got some wood, and some ideas. Can't do infrared, don't have the means. Do have a laser level. Got an assortment of small mirrors needed to look around corners of the engine and like that. Got one warning alarm meant to be hung on a door. Good enough. It takes her a bit to rig something incorporating what she has into a functional device. Once done, she trots it off to where Zoe is waiting for it.

She sets two pieces of wood on their crossed block bases next to the door one on either side. They are about waist high. The laser level is partially disassembled so that the laser points at a mirror on the other side, which throws it across to a mirror on the other side, which does the same thing back. This produces a zig-zag pattern which was the best she could manage on short notice. There are wires all over the thing and the alarm at the bottom. Once set, KAYLEE turns it on and stands back.

KAYLEE
There you go. Anything breaks that beam and the alarm goes off. Best I can do."

EOM

OOC. Kiddies, comp is frelled. lost this post 4 times writing it. Going now. Debs

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

INARAESQUE

Thursday, November 4, 2004 1:33 AM

Inara's move

LOCATION - AFT CORRIDOR/Galley doorway area

Inara heads back out of her shuttle to rejoin the crew, heading back to the galley, hoping that things haven't gone to hell in her absence. Tensions are running high, there's no telling what will have transpired.

She climbs the back stairs again, Inara watches River wander the length of the corridor, singing softly to herself. The companion smiles a little, relieved to see the girl bouncing back from the screaming terror that had brought just about half the crew to her side. River has suffered so much, Inara thinks, but she keeps bouncing back. Perhaps she's the most resilient of all of the lost souls aboard Serenity...

Quote:
Flashback:

LOCATION – INARA'S SHUTTLE

Simon is there, looking young, tired and lost.

SIMON
I'm sorry. For my part in what happened. I've never... I don't know how to --

INARA
You're lost in the woods. We all are. Even the captain. The only difference is, he likes it that way.

MAL
(entering)
No the difference is, the woods are the only place I can see a clear path.

Sad little smile as she remembers, and Inara stands in the doorway to the galley. Lurking, again, quietly observing from the periphery. It's getting to be a habit...

Someone's singing.

Sometimes I think I hear you calling, calling sweet and low,
And I seem to hear your footsteps falling everywhere I go,
But though the road between us stretches many's the weary mile,
Somehow I forget that you're not with me yet, when I think I see you smile.

There's a long, long trail a-winding into the land of my dreams,
Where the nightingales are singing and the white moon gleams,
There's a long, long night of waiting until my dreams all come true,
And that's the day when I'll be going down that long, long trail with you.

The singing's so sweet, and the song so... resonant with Inara's mood, that the companion feels the hot sting of tears. She shuts her eyes, pushing them back, aching a little at the song, glad she's not in a place to be observed by any in the galley...

EOM

OOC: Fixing the timings & location a bit: with River wandering down the aft corridor & not seeing Inara, I'm now placing Inara as coming down the corridor after River.

SAINT JAYNE

Thursday, November 4, 2004 2:02 AM

JAYNE - GALLEY

Jayne just isn't getting into the "spirit" like he was before. The spirit of smiling and helping Rowan cook and keeping an eye on her. First of all that sort of espionage wasn't his style, and since Rowan had thrown him for a loop in a dangerous situation, Jayne just isn't... calming down. He finds himself leaning in on one side of her, with Merz (who probably wasn't in Rowan's good books right now for her role in Damon's apprehension) chopping food on the other. Almost boxing her in.

Jayne is thinking more and more about it. About her.

Rowan's eyelid flutters. She quickly moves her hand up to her face, hiding it from Jayne, but for a moment she looked pained.

"I'm not in'rested in yer secrets right now", Jayne finally answers. "I'm in'rested in what you was thinkin' you was doin' when Cap'n told me to bring Damon on over."

Rowan quickly regains her composure. Jayne keeps on talking. "We generally don't pick fights with each other here, an' any 'mounta brains'll tell ya not ta pick a fight you can't win. Now you know I gotta job ta do here. An' yer new job is to keep outta my way. Dong ma?"

CAPNRAHN

Thursday, November 4, 2004 7:54 AM

Mal moves to his bunk and boots the door open. For no real reason, he just slides down the outside rails of the ladder. In the near darkness, he moves over to his hidey hole and retrieves a leather-harnessed 2 gallon jug. It is shaped like a bent cone an made of a dark amber glass. Mal pulls the wooden top off and is assailed by pungent odor of premium 198 proof hooch. You could run an engine with this stuff, it burned so pure. Noting that the bottle is still three quarters full, Mal grunts as he nabs his pint’n’half hip flask. He fills it while looking around for another container. He spies one of those two and a half quart sports bottles with the self closing angled sippin’ straw. Capping his now full flask, he reaches for the sports bottle, splashes a shot of the hooch in and swirls it around. The fluid stays clear, indicating the bottle is poly-plas, so it is safe to store the potent alcohol in it. Jayne'll get a real kick outta this stuff. It had a mix of potassium and other minerals to make it a real clean and enjoyable blitzin'. Mal puts his personal flask into the deep front pocket of his pants. Grabbing his talkie out of its desk alcove, he clips it to his belt. One handed, he climbs the ladder and powers down his bunk.

Looking towards the Galley, Mal can see Kaylee moving down the hall towards the engine room.

Nodding at Zoe, he turns and moves down the hall to the upper catwalks. Mostly on autopilot, he finds himself in the Passenger Dorm section. In front of Book’s room. Without hesitation, he knocks.
EOM

OOC: will flesh out soon ...

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

RAVENWHYTEWING

Thursday, November 4, 2004 5:25 PM

Slight lights a cigarette. At this point, he's willing to admit an addiction. But, being recently dead, one should allow him some eccentricities, eh?
Thank the Void, his skin had been grafted with a tailored "web." While it hardly made him immune to space, it did grant him an hour or two. Slight waits for Malachi to arrive impatientently. Why was it the man was so eager to leave no trail? Book, that born-again. He hadn't tried to evaluate. Sloppy. He needed to clean up his act. Being on the run did not grant him any quarter to be lazy.

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

MANIACNUMBERONE

Thursday, November 4, 2004 6:16 PM

Book's Move
Location: His Quarters

Book has had time to change into a fresh set of preacher duds and pour himself a fresh cupa before there is a sudden knock at his door.

Setting down his cup and removing the Bible from his lap to a small empty table, he takes three steps and slides open his door. "Captain... I wouldn't have expected you to come all the way down here... just to give my comm call an answer." Stepping back from the doorway, Book gestures inside. "Please, come in."

EM

MANIACNUMBERONE

Thursday, November 4, 2004 6:35 PM

Malachi's Move
Location: Looking in the window of Slight's ship... from a distance.

A thought strikes him as he jets slowly through space... a thought he tries to hide from the man on the ship in his innermost mind. Malachi slows his motion and lifts his arm control panel up to his face. A few commands sequences later and his ship has powered up and is making it's way through the void to hover next to the other ship. He watches in bitter satisfaction as his ship sends out clamps and attaches itself to the other.

He'll have heard that... Too late now though. I know you can hear me. We live or we die together. Entering the last command on his control pad, Malachi views the readout display showing 20 minutes till self-destruct. Let's see how well you survive being in a million pieces. Malachi thinks to the man as he re-enters the doomed ship and floats down through the hatchway to once again confront the man.

EM

RAVENWHYTEWING

Thursday, November 4, 2004 7:02 PM

Slight shrugs, seeing him enter.
I have no arguments. If you feel this makes a level playing field, suit yourself.
He raises an eyebrow.
Consider, though-I already know every part of how you think. Do you expect me to allow myself to die? Die from a lackey disappointed at his boss's negligence? You give me far too little credit.
Slight rises from his sitting position. Now comes the hard part.
My only question is, do you feel like you could be pursuaded to work for someone else? Clearly, survival skills aside, I'm stuck. Nowhere to go, but an obscene amount of cash. We both work for people. Care to make some sort of arrangement?
You want to kill this Book, or at least have a long talk with him. I want to look into a. . .mercenary I last saw with him. Seeing as how we both are exceptional in the art of killing, as a team we should make an excellent pair. I can help you with any Blue Sun or Alliance trouble you may have. You can help me to recover, and keep me from getting killed. While we don't need each other, it might be beneficial, no?
Slight holds his breath. He can't try to pressure this man mentally-a man working under threat of force was rarely as much of an asset as a hassle. He can't help but offer a silent prayer.

We can't all be heroes, since some of us have to sit at the curb and clap as they go by.

CHANNAIN

Thursday, November 4, 2004 9:04 PM

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Merz finishes the song, and the task at nearly the same time, producing the most precise chopped scallion Rowan has ever seen, yet without the usual tears that generally comes from chopping one of those little devils. that served as Rowan's reason for handing the job off. that seeming pretty darn pleased with herself. An effusion of expression where a Troy is concerned and the sight of it warms Rowan's heart.

MERZ: "Next?"

Rowan smiles over her uncharacteristic flourish - although tame by normal standards - and the idea that Merz could hold a tune without a bucket.

JAYNE: "I'm not in'rested in yer secrets right now. I'm in'rested in what you was thinkin' you was doin' when Cap'n told me to bring Damon on over. We generally don't pick fights with each other here, an' any 'mounta brains'll tell ya not ta pick a fight you can't win. Now you know I gotta job ta do here. An' yer new job is to keep outta my way. Dong ma?"

Suddenly Rowan is feeling exceedingly weary. Exhausted might be the general vernacular, but really that doesn't cover it either. All she wants is a few stiff drinks and to collapse onto her bunk down in the dorms. Actually, there's more on her wish list, but for now that will entirely suffice. She breathes a long sigh, and gives a small shrug before she looks up at him and answers.

ROWAN: "Hell with it - you wanna know something? I don't know what I was thinking. It was a stupid thing to try and believe me it won't happen again anytime soon. Damon was in good hands as it was, and I knew something was hinky with the whole situation. Truth is, I'm a behind-the-scenes type--I stay back and let them as are stronger and faster and better than me take care of the hands-on situations. This time, I wasn't even sure who that was until the last second. Now I know. You want me out of your way, fine--I'm out. I have to practice for the UBA tournament on New Hokkaido, so I'll be up here using the table a lot before we get there. When I'm not here, I'll be in my bunk and when I'm not there, I'll probably be in the Infirmary getting something for this gorram migraine that keeps coming to visit. I don't sleep much these days, so you might see me at some pretty odd-ass hours."

Moving back toward him, she looks deep into those dark eyes, seeing only stalwart determination.

ROWAN: "I'm only trying to get from point A to point B, hâo le ma and Serenity just happened to be going my way. Once we get to New Hokkaido, you won't have to deal with me again. Ever."

She stands that way, unblinking, so that Jayne will at least take the sincerity of the moment to heart, if not the words. Then she turns to Merz and tips her head to one side, wondering if either one of them is ready for the learning experience she's about to offer. Figuring she might as well go all the way, she decides to go for it.

ROWAN: "As for you, xiâo péngyou, I'm thinking you might just be ready to learn the fine art of glazing. How brave do you feel?"

EOM

hâo le ma = big fella
xiâo péngyou = little friend

Fans come and fans go...but zealots are with you until the bitter black end.
I draw...therefore I am.
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Thursday, November 4, 2004 11:01 PM

MERZ move

LOCATION - GALLEY

ROWAN smiles back at her. Merz ponders. Perhaps she is starting to understand for herself how to fit in. It gives a sense of ... accomplishment.

Then JAYNE speaks and there is a change. Rowan is deeply affected by his words, evidenced by her own response and her body's reactions. And Merz is forcibly reminded that they will be parting company at New Hokkaido. But in light of her own resolve, that would have been occuring anyway. She pushes those thoughts aside, vehemently. That is for later. Now is for - bao.

ROWAN takes her attention from Jayne. Turning back to Merz she tips her head thoughtfully and says "As for you, xiâo péngyou, I'm thinking you might just be ready to learn the fine art of glazing. How brave do you feel?"

Slightly confused - she has never really considered kitchen duty to require much in the way of bravery, Merz responds. "I am ready for whatever you choose to teach me, mero saathi. Show me how to 'glaze'."

As she approaches closer, to watch and learn, MERZ speaks softly, for Rowan's ears only. "I have known you are in pain. Do you trust me to run a diagnostic on you?" Again, Merz tries out her new, real smile. "I promise to use the machine."

EOM

xiâo péngyou = little friend
mero saathi = my friend (Nepali)

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

DECOY

Friday, November 5, 2004 2:43 AM

Wash's Move:
Location - Pilot's Lounge to Bridge

(Kaylee leaves, and Wash is alone with his thoughts... He just simply stares out into the black... And then with a sigh, he goes back to his helm console, and goes back to work on the course that must be plotted for the run tomorrow.)

(On the Helm, in the Master Repeater Function Unit Command Status Screen (MRFUCSS) the time display reads: 20:35 AMT (8:35 pm) Wash says to Rex): "I'd better hurry, or I'll be flying blind down those canyons tommorow... I'm shure that Mal will like that even less than what I've got planned." He goes back to work, entering little post-it note like arrows on the planetary survey map screen.)

EOM

Decoy, they make me go first.

SQUEE

Friday, November 5, 2004 8:39 PM

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - SPARE DORM

Damon watches Mal for a few silent seconds, waiting for him to start whatever it is he has in mind.

Quote:
Mal
... voice deep and very fatigued, somewhat horse...
"Sit ... Lay down ... whatever ya need ta do to. Things are changin', you gotta cogitate on yer next move."
... Mal continues, uncharacteristically giving an explanation to what he normally would just do and not even bother to explain ...
"Power'll be goin' down in a minute, nuttin but the lights. Darkness makes you face yerself." ... unspoken but seen his flashing eyes: "And yer Demons" ...

The comm crackles and Book's voice rumbles hollowly over it. "Captain... what's going on?"

Mal doesn’t respond to Book and indicates hatch above Damon with his thumb...
"Not gonna be locked, but you as much as peek a nose hair above the deck, the rest'll the crew 'll be eatin' long pig for breakfast sausage. Dong Ma."

Without waiting to see or hear Damon, he brushes by brusquely and heads up the ladder. He closes the hatch.

Damon watches Mal disappear into the hall. The lights go out as promised, leaving him alone in the dark room. Just as well. There isn’t a night that goes by that Damon doesn’t ‘cogitate’ his circumstances, and now is as good a time as any, even if it’s ahead of schedule. He moves to the bed and drops himself on it, letting his back and head hit the wall with a soft thunk.

Mal’s right about the dark- Damon has always been able to think better in the dark. But if he thinks Damon can just ‘cogitate’ his demons away overnight, he’s got another think coming.

Shi, I wish it was that easy though…

He runs a hand through his hair, wondering if Mal’s reference to breakfast meant that he’d be staying down here overnight.

Hope not… nothing to do in here but sleep once I’ve finished contemplating how the hell I got into this ma lashi, or how I’m going to get out of it.

He sits up, putting his elbows on his knees, and hangs his head. So what went wrong?

I overheard something meant for Zoe and misunderstood? Surely can’t be the extent of it. If Mal wanted to talk to me all he’d need to do was ask. I was floating out in that hall for at least ten minutes waiting to talk to him. Hell, I was waiting to talk to him when he came down to the infirmary earlier but as soon as I turn my back he has to get Jayne to ‘escort’ me? No, he knew I could hear him; you don’t order shuttles and weapons lockers locked down to talk to someone. He wanted to know how I’d react.

Tzao gao, he knows I’m a slave… I don’t care what he claims to know or not know about me, it was no coincidence that he mentioned ‘slavers’. Can’t be.

His fingers run slowly over the scars on his wrist left by the handcuffs that had cut into his skin countless times as he pulled and fought.

What else does he know? I never gave them my last name so how could he know?

He closes his eyes and gives his head a slight shake.

Who am I kidding, all they’d have to do is check the cortex for news on yesterday. I must’ve left a trail of dead an’ injured Feds at least 10 blocks long…

Damon takes a deep breath and sighs, listening to the soft hum of Serenity’s engine in the otherwise silent room. He knows he should leave tomorrow, least if he wants to play it safe he should. But just the thought of having to leave threatens to drain him of what strength he has left. Another town to wander in without protection, more Feds to hide from, having to worry about where it’ll be safe to sleep or whether he can afford food, and then to start the cycle all over again on some other ship, assuming he finds one. When will it end? It has to end sometime- he can’t keep this up forever. Yesterday is proof of that. So the question is: where will it end? Mal had talked about him

SAINT JAYNE

Saturday, November 6, 2004 3:49 AM

JAYNE - GALLEY

I guess she understands. Jayne holds his intimidating manner until Rowan has finished talking and stares at him with ernest eyes; the kind of eyes that only a true professional could fake. "You do that then. Point A to B is good, just so long as ya keep clear a point J."

He backs off and takes a position next to the kettle. Leaning next to it, Jayne can feel a comfortable heat radiate from when Inara made tea, and that starts him thinking. Well, if she doesn't sleep much, odds are pretty good that neither will he.

Jayne snatches the kettle and takes it over to the faucet. He fills it halfway, judging by the sound of the water when that is because his eyes are still perched on Rowan and her every move. He flips the switch at the kettle's base and puts it back down. He then fishes blindly for the can of coffee in the cupboard. Gorramit, where is it? Who made coffee last?

GEEZER

Sunday, November 7, 2004 4:35 PM

THORNE's Move

Location: Various

River smiles and reaches for the ball only to have it pulled out of reach at the last second. He brings it back and she reaches for it again, only this time when he pulls it back out of reach, she grins a proud look of triumph and holds up the handkerchief she snuck from his pocket with a giggle.

“Got you.” she says.

THORNE's look of mock surprise slowly fades as a feeling of something important left undone comes over him. He stands and speaks to RIVER.

THORNE: "I've enjoyed our game, little one, but I have something important that needs doing right now. You'll be all right here for a while. I'll see you later."

He moves to his cabin, where, sure enough, the message light is flashing. He downloads the message to his personal link, decrypts it, reads it, and then curses fluently and imaginatively in several languages for quite a long time. He reads the message again and dispatches a short reply.

Connecting to the ship's comm, he records several time-delayed messages.

THORNE:"Cap'n, this is THORNE. I've been called away on urgent business and have to leave you now. I'm sure that you'll be just as glad to have me off your ship. I will rely on you to complete the drop. In my cabin you'll find a credit chit good at any bank for the agreed price, plus a little for your trouble and the spacesuit I'll be taking."

-----------------

"ROWAN. THORNE here. I'm off on a detour, but if you still want to participate in our little scam, contact the manager of the Greentree as we discussed. He will take care of everything. I'd wish you good luck, but you don't need it."

-------------------------

"RIVER. Sorry I won't be able to continue our game immediately. Something has come up that I have to handle personally. Something even more important than jacks. I will see you again sometime, and I am looking out for you, as much as is in my power. Take care, little one."

-------------------------

"This is THORNE. I have to leave the ship, but your job remains the same. Protect RIVER at all costs. You do not want to fail me in this. I will contact you later."

-------------------------

"INARA. I'm sorry, my sweet, but something has come up which I must attend to in person. It is not more important than my promise to you, but is a life or death matter, and more immediate. If I'm not back by the time you are ready to go to Ariel for treatment, call the comm code attached to this message. Everything will have been arranged for your passage and cure, and all you will have to do is get well and stay beautiful.

I enjoyed our time together, brief though it was, more than I can express. You are very dear to me, and I wish you every happiness. I hope that one day the scales will fall from your captain's eyes, and he will see the great treasure which he alone can have. Adeiu, sweetling."

Gathering a few belongings, THORNE looks around his cabin once more, then heads upstairs. He enters the dorsal airlock and dons one of the space suits there. Reaching out to touch the steel of the hull, he murmurs,

THORNE:"Goodby Serenity. You're a good old girl. Look after them for me."

Opening the outer lock, he steps off into space.

EOM

OOC: See my OOC.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

CAPNRAHN

Sunday, November 7, 2004 9:01 PM

LOCATION - BOOKs DORM
As ...

Book opens the slider and looks at Mal expectantly

BOOK
"Captain... I wouldn't have expected you to come all the way down here... just to give my comm call an answer. Please, come in."

Over the comms ...

Quote:
THORNE:"Cap'n, this is THORNE. I've been called away on urgent business and have to leave you now. I'm sure that you'll be just as glad to have me off your ship. I will rely on you to complete the drop. In my cabin you'll find a credit chit good at any bank for the agreed price, plus a little for your trouble and the spacesuit I'll be taking."

"This is THORNE. I have to leave the ship, but your job remains the same. Protect RIVER at all costs. You do not want to fail me in this. I will contact you later."

... Oh what the gorram hell is goin' on now ... Mal thinks irritably. He grabs his talkie and keys to the Bridge.

MAL
... irritated and tetchy ...
"Wash, I didn't hear one of my shuttles detach, so which hatch did he swim outta?"
... know'n Thorne, it could been a bit ago - meebe why he neglected to answer my request during the Damon prank...
" And WHEN the hatch was opened ..."

... for no real reason and under his breath... "i'll smoke him a smeggin' kipper."

... turns to Book as he unkeys the talkie.
"Well, Shepherd, that was one of the reasons I came here - I wanted you to lead the ground team t'marrow."

EOM

OOC - sorry fer bad joke

- no sleep makes cap'n a frellin' git...

"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

CAPNRAHN

Sunday, November 7, 2004 9:02 PM

NEW ACT THREAD!!!

http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=7848&m=102349