RP: Badger's Betrayal" or "Adventures in GunRunning" ACT 5

POSTED BY: CapnRahn
UPDATED: Thursday, January 22, 2004 13:39
VIEWED: 21151
PAGE 1 of 2

Malcom Renyolds Personal Log
"Here's how it is: Earth got used up, so we terraformed a whole new galaxy of Earths, some rich and flush with new technologies, some not so much. Central Planets, them was formed the Alliance, waged war to bring everyone under their rule; a few idiots tried to fight it, among them myself. I'm Malcolm Reynolds, captain of the Serenity. Got a good crew: fighters, pilot, mechanic. We even picked up a preacher, and a bona fide companion. There's a doctor, too, his genius sister from some Alliance camp, so they're keeping a low profile. You got a job, we can do it, don't much care what it is."

LAST TIME ON FIREFLY

GREEN ROOM: http://www.fireflyfans.net/fireflychat.asp

TEASER:
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=3135

Mal set up a deal with Badger to pick up some goods in Serenity Valley on Hara. While en route, Mal got a wave from Niska, who has apparently taken up with one Jubal Early. Neither Niska nor Early had anything immediate to say, so Mal told them to wave him when they felt like talking.

Wash, having not slept for three days for fear of River killing him in his sleep, has begun having sleep-deprived hallucinations and has taken the ship off course. Serenity is now rapidly headed toward the edge of explored space.

Zoe has been attempting to get Wash to wake up completely from the drug-induced, waking nightmare that is driving him, while Shepherd Book goes looking for Simon, hoping the good doctor can give Wash something to either bring him out of his nightmare or put him more fully to sleep.

While Inara points out the ship's current path will take them into Reaver territory, Jayne and Zoe try to convince Mal of the insanity of heading to Serenity Valley for a pickup...

ACT 1:
http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=3197

The crew was thrown into chaos over the mad dash into the edge of Reaver space and the resultant disabling of Serenity. Simon was knocked unconscious, Jayne armed himself in preparation for a Reaver attack, and Wash passed out from exhaustion after finding evidence the the ship had been sabotaged, probably by Jubal Early.

River took over care for Simon, Mal and Book took steps to revive Wash, and Zoe and Kaylee began repairs to the engine. Inara, thinking things under control, began dressing in her shuttle only to find that things were about to get much worse.

With the ship in disabled and in chaos, Niska and Early attacked. Mal, Zoe, and Jayne took out Niska's lackeys, but not before Early snuck up to Inara's shuttle and managed to get Inara stripped, bound, and gagged.

Niska avoided shooting and capture, then headed for the unconscious Simon in the infirmary. He found a scalpel and tried to hold Simon hostage for Mal to put down arms, but Wash managed to get the drop on Niska, pinning him and exacting revenge for his treatment at Niska's hands in War Stories before Niska passed out. Between them, Wash and Simon subdued Niska as Mal and Zoe entered the infirmary, leaving Jayne to deal with the bodies of the dead goons.

Book took Early by surprise, letting Inara get to safety in the cargo bay. Early and Book fought, Early finally knocking Book unconscious and stealing Inara's shuttle. As her shuttle disappeared, Inara freed herself and found Jayne's workout towel to wrap around her nakedness.

Kaylee, coming down from the engine room in the all-clear, found Mal exacting a little revenge of his own on Niska (in the form of taking off Niska's ear). There was no one on the bridge to see the proximity alert echoed in the sensors of Inara's shuttle. Book and Early made an agreement to work together to survive what's coming.

Reavers.

ACT 2:
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=2&t=3208

As the Reavers locked their docking clamps onto Serenity, Book and Early worked together to draw them away. Early left Inara's shuttle and attacked the Reavers from Niska's ship, while Book used Inara's shuttle to ram the docking clamps, making them release Serenity and being knocked unconscious by the impact

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Simon's Move
LOCATION-Cargo Bay

Simon is not focusing on much, his head is in his hands while he tries to focus past the roiling images, feelings and sounds. Which feel like they are rebounding, with a vengance, from off the insides of his skull.

EOM

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Cargo Bay

Kaylee sits next to Simon, placing a cool hand on the back of his neck.

"You ok?"

Simon gives one grimace of pain and continues to cradle his head.

"Look, I don't know what went on with you 'n Niska in the 'firmary. I do know that he's bad-real bad-and whatever ya did, ya had to do. We're family, Simon, and family sticks ta'gether. That's what my parents always said, and they ain't steered me wrong yet. Let it go."

Kaylee gives Simon's neck a little squeeze and moves off to wait for Mal & Zoe.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_________
River waits for an answer from Wash, and when she recieves none, she leaves. She goes back to the secret hatch (As before mentioned).

Hello.
_________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

OOC: Hey all! Sorry for the delay in posting. Only have a sec now: Son, take care of your friend. May be able to get on tomorrow inthe AM or for a bit in the evening.

Until then, Zoe can head to the cargo bay to check in with the rest, then go with Mal to the meet.

Capn, you did a great job. I'll send you the new synopses for Acts 2, 3, and 4 when I check back in.

See y'all tomorrow.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

OCC
Thanks, just did the ole cut-n-paste-n-edit.

No rush, seems that this has been a busy weekend.

SerenitysSon - again, my sincerest condolances.

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[Armed with pistol in holster, backup revolver in his boot, and Winchester rifle strapped to his back. Loaded for bear, just in case. Mal finishes with mule.]Says aloud to all: "Well Kaylee, Zoe, and I are off now. Jayne, you're in charge. Stay on the link in case we run into trouble. Wash, you and Doc' make sure everyone is ok healthwise. Don't forget to fuel up Serenity pronto though." [Mal moves in and takes Simon by the arm to speak to him privately.]Says to Simon:"I understand you got Niska on ice now. If we can't get any info out of him, might be I can find another use for the chao-shang tza-jiao duh tzang-hao. Keep him in cold storage 'till we return. Also, been a while since I saw your mei-mei. Might want to keep close tabs on her as we're in civilization now."[Mal turns on his heel and gets on mule. Gives a whistful glance at Inara. Knows something is wrong, but is too proud and stubborn to give in to his feelings for her.] Says to Zoe and Kaylee:"Are we going or what?"END TURN.

OOC:Nice job on the synopsis Capnrahn!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn

By the time Inara finishes bathing, getting dressed, and twisting her hair back into a complex crown of curls, she begins to feel much stronger.

Whatever narcotics Jayne dispensed to her have taken away the weakness and tremble aftereffects of the seizure.

"Hara central medical facility...I can get what I need there..."

Inara has been to Hara before--as a Companion, she's been to most planets Serenity can access..and some Serenity can't.

Inara takes one last look at herself, folding a hem in on the front of Mal's white shirt to hide the blood drops there.

Jayne has proceeded to the cargo bay, and is currently in charge of what's happening on Serenity while Mal, Zoe and Kaylee are gone for the pickup.

She will make a short stop at her shuttle to find some suitable clothing from what's left, reapply her mask of makeup and jewelry, and retrieve what money she has left.

End Inara's move

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

River appears in the infirmerary. She says to Wash: "I'm fine. Nothing will happen." She smiles at him.

..WASH'S MOVE

Wash turns and sees River. His jaw drops and he just stands there like an idiot for several seconds.

"You.. you're okay? I mean--"

Suddenly his demeanor changes to one of overenthusiastic relief.

"You're okay! Well, that's great! Wow that's.. that's just great! If you didn't creep me out so much I could hug ya."

Mal and the others say their piece, as Wash looks around at the group. Gives each person a long, curious look. When his eyes fall upon Inara he kinda does a doubletake at her and then shakes his head. Then Mal says to Zoe and Kaylee "Are we going or what?"

"Wait, Mal before y'all go... So everybody's okay? We're all okay? No impending doom looming over anyone's heads? Not that I was expecting any but.. Okay. Well. That's great. I'd just like to take this moment to say that even though we just uhm.. We're just nine people who for various reasons have each ended up together on this ship. I uh, I kinda think of us as a sorta ..well you're like family. I just don't wanna see any of us, y'know.. Uh, hurt. We gotta look out for each other. So.. Doc? As Mal said let's uhm, you make sure no one's got bruises or bleeding internally or caught some flu bug or something, okay? We all went through quite a bit on the way here. We seem to go through a lot all the time, don't we? Give everybody ..physicals. Yeah that's it! Mal and Kaylee and Zoe you can get them when they get back. I'll go get the refueling procedures started with the dock, uhm.. Out there." Wash motions for Mal and the ladies to go that he's done talking and he apologizes if he was being a little mushy.

He kinda shrugs, as if he can't shake this feeling of impending doom even though he sees no evidence before him that doom's coming. He turns to go out and down the ramp. Calling back to the doctor, "You can gimme a physical too Doc, soon as you're done doin' everbody else. I'll uh, be outside."

And he's out of the ship. Doing whatever it is Wash does in order to successfully get the ship refueled.

..END MOVE

------------------------------
"Hang on, travelers..."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn, supplemental
--------------------------------
Mal and the others say their piece, as Wash looks around at the group. Gives each person a long, curious look. When his eyes fall upon Inara he kinda does a doubletake at her and then shakes his head. Then Mal says to Zoe and Kaylee "Are we going or what?"
--------------------------------

Inara smiles at Wash, as he looks at her oddly.

She has returned from her salvage trip to her shuttle, wearing a deep green sheath that shimmers with a myraid of hidden colors--blue, green, gold...Her hair is as always, impeccably curled, and caught up in silver pins with emerald detail.

She has reapplied her makeup, and her lips shine with her usual deep burgundy lip color. She again smells of lily of the valley, instead of cold sweat and Jayne's bunk.

In a tiny bag inside her bodice rests a large wad of currency.

Her face reveals nothing of the last few hours...
She glances significantly at Jayne, who merely nods his head and returns his gaze to the assembled.

----------------------------------
So.. Doc? As Mal said let's uhm, you make sure no one's got bruises or bleeding internally or caught some flu bug or something, okay? We all went through quite a bit on the way here. We seem to go through a lot all the time, don't we? Give everybody ..physicals. Yeah that's it
----------------------------------

Inara's back stiffens. She glances first at Wash, then Simon

"I've recently had my physical at Ariel when we were there last. I assure you I am in perfect condition, and harbor no ill effects from our little adventure!"

"I really can't stay, I actually have a client I must briefly meet before we are off again. If you all will excuse me."

Lies...lies...it's always been this way, and I suppose it always will. Hiding from the ones I love the most, just as I have always done.

Inara begins to make her way toward the cargo doors
End Inara's supplement



Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_______
River leaves, and goes back to Simon.

Ge-ge, relax.
_______

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

LOCATION CARGO BAY
On Hera

SIMON LOOKS UP AS RIVER SPEAKS. HIS FACE IS CONTORTED IN CONTROLLED PAIN

SIMON
"Mei-mei ... I did something ... really stupid... as usual.

TRIES TO LAUGH, BUT SUDDEN PAIN FORCES HIM TO PRESS THE HEELS OF HIS HANDS INTO HIS TEMPLES AND THEN SLIDES HIS HANDS OVER HIS FACE.

SIMON
VOICE MUFFLED AND BARELY HEARD
"Is this a portion of what you go through... I never truly understood...
EOM



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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_______
River immeadiatly screams:

Ge-ge! Don't leave me! Please! I won't let them take you!

She starts hugging Simon, and starts crying into his shirt.
_______

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

LOCATION CARGO BAY
On Hera

AS RIVER SCREAMS, SIMON'S PAIN IS PUSHED BACK. HE HUGS RIVER VERY CLOSE AND STROKES HER HAIR

SIMON
"It's just too crowded in here ... indicates forehead and does a silly, yet pained grin... I just need time to sort it out.

EOM

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

______
River looks up at Simon.

But I'm afraid you won't be able to. Please don't leave me.
______

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

Thorne slowly climbs to the edge of the bar, and gestures to the bartender.

"Hey! Beer me!"

The bartender draws a liter stein and slides it down the bar. Thorne catches it in passing,chugs half, sets the stein on the bar, and gazes at it fondly.

"Beer. Foamy."

He chugs the other half and produces a contented belch.

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Back of the Mule, heading out for parts.

Looking back into the bay, Kaylee sighs as she sees the interaction between Simon and River. Her thoughts travel back to the farm where she grew up, running around after her brothers...playing with the machines they managed to break. She misses them something fierce, but tries not to let it bother her. She's with people she loves, doing work that she loves just as much. She's even able to send most of her take back to her parents.

Sitting behind her Captain, she watches Hera unfold before her and thinks wistfully about her first home.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Cargo Bay

Book remains silent during the Captain, Kaylee and Zoe's departure. He doesn't need to move closer to hear the conversations with Simon. He merely observes Simon closely, waiting for a sign he doesn't want to see.

Book to himself

"That boy's done something foolish and I fear he's not gonna be the only one to pay for it."

Feeling that Jayne could benefit from his experience, (and the cap'n could've left someone better in charge,) Book leaves River and Simon in the cargo bay and goes to the bridge.

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[Driving mule with Zoe and Kaylee onboard. They arrive at Hara Carey Bar. Mal gets off mule and motions for Zoe to do same.]Says to Kaylee:"You go pick up the parts we need for repairs kiddo. Here's some coin to spend. Take the mule with you. We'll meet up later at the ship. Dong ma? If you run into troubles just yell on the link and we'll come a runnin'!" [Turns to Zoe.] Says to Zoe:"Well, lets meet our contact. [Turns and heads into bar. Asks bartender where he can find someone named Thorne. Bartender points him out.Mal orders a glass of beer, then heads on over.] Says to Thorne:"Nice day today. Ever do any hunting? I do. Ran into a Badger I just couldn't seem to do away with back on Persephone. You know the kind of "Badger" I'm talking about friend?"[Has Zoe on other side of Thorne as he's talking. Mal keeps his hand on pistol grip. Waits tensely for Thorne's reply.]END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne's move

Thorne looks up at Mal, and Mal, and Zoë, and Zoë.

“Who ‘r you wans’a know? I’ll tell you summin…I…I…Oh. ‘scuse me jus’ a sec. Whoa, Nellie!”

Thorne struggles to his feet, swaying and looking slightly green. He closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, bends forward at the waist clutching both the bar and his stomach, and suddenly...snaps erect and opens his eyes. He is now stone cold sober, with the color returning to his face.

“Ah, better now. Captain Reynolds, I presume?”

At Mals’ nod he removes a small rectangle of white cardboard from his pocket. With a flourish he hands it to Mal. The card reads:

Roosevelt Thorne
Expediter
Import/Export
Salvage
c/o Hara Cary Bar, Hara

“ I’m Roosevelt Thorne. Most just call me Rosie, so you might as well. Lets get a table and get down to business.” Aside to Zoë. “Ma’am, have we met before? You do look familiar. No? My bad then.”


EOM


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne - follow-on

As they walk to a corner table, Thorne continues:

“You mentioned my “dear” brother-in-law. I won’t ask how he got you involved in this deal, but I want you to know that I don’t like him, I don’t like the way he does business, and I’d have wasted him long ago if he wasn’t married to my baby sister. Fool child.”

They reach the small table. Thorne, Mal and Zoë all attempt to take the chair facing the room. After a moment’s pause, they rearrange the chairs and table so they are all sitting with backs to the wall.

EOM


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[Looks at Zoe as if to say:Is this guy for real? Then shrugs and finds a seat at table. Still apprehensive of Thorne.] Says to Thorne:"You got the "merchandise" we're here for? Or do We need to come back when you're feeling a might sober?[Motions to Zoe, and they stand up and get ready to leave bar. Still has hand close to handle of pistol. Mal's feeling tetchy and his back wound is starting to throb with pain.]END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

“What's the matter? Never see anyone sober up before? I’m ready for business now if you are, so please have a seat, we're burning daylight."




"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge

Book settles into the tactical chair, takes a lingering look out the port window, then turns his attention to the sensors and read-outs coming into the system. He switches through local channels and adeptly finds the chatter of Alliance underlings discussing a routine cargo transfer.

Alliance forces of unknown rank discuss --
1st underling: "Only 2 crates?! Why.... What a waste of time."
2nd underling: "Never you mind. You just keep track of what you're doing."

Book switches incoming channels to a lesser known frequency. He listens attently but no transmissions occur. Switching back to the previous channel, he wishes he hadn't checked the other channel.

2nd underling's voice "...too valuable to take any chances. You have your orders. With our main force en route, you need to make sure all remains calm and nothing happens. Now clear this channel."
1st underling "but sir, we've been told to keep an eye out for these ones. If only,"
2nd underling "I don't need you to tell me how to do my job. I've already made the appropriate calls. I don't report back to you when I do! out!"

Book says aloud

" I hope they expedite things. This looks real bad. Alliance transfer goin' on near abouts the Hara Cary Bar, seems they might have recognized our distinguished captain... perhaps not though."

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

OOC: Oops. move out of turn. Will mod

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[Smiles to himself. Now I got him off balance and on the defensive. Ok, now lets get to the nitty-gritty.] Says to Thorne:"What kind o' cargo are we haulin', where's it at, and what are we gettin' paid for haulin' it?" [Mal looks around bar and takes in occupants.]END TURN.

OOC: Like the interesting side stories being developed. Nice work all!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

Thorne shakes his head, as if to say :Lord. Dealing with amateurs again.

“Look. I know that my weasel brother-in-law quoted you a price already. I also know that your Firefly is configured to fastload a conex container. Well, I’ve got one that’s stuffed with enough hardware to equip two heavy companies. Everything from sidearms to light anti-aircraft and mortars. I have the coordinates, so we can lift over to the Valley and pick it right up. There’s just two conditions: One - we spend as little time on the ground there as possible. Two - I go where the cargo goes. I’ll tell you where when we get loaded. You can agree or hit the road, Jack.”


EOM

OOC: I believe Rowan has already left the building.


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

OOC - since I don't know who's on the bridge...

Book reaches over his head to the comm as another transfer comes in... he waits, poised on the comm.

Voice, different than the first, but still Alliance in procedure speaks, (we'll call him 3rd underling) "Confirmed sir, It's Reynolds alright, and he's apparently oblivious of own man on the inside. He's taking a drink with some off-worlder. I'm sending the off-worlders specs now." [beat]
Another voice, Book recognizes as the previous 2nd underlings voice responds, "Received. [beat] You're not to do approach them, leutenant. Keep your man in the bar where he is, and the rest of your men guarding the cargo... Wait for reinforcements."
3rd underling "Yessir."

Book calls over the intercom

"Wash... Jayne... To the bridge."

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book said, "Wash... Jayne... To the bridge."

..WASH'S MOVE

Wash walks up the ramp just as Book makes that annoucement, having finished up with the refueling procedures successfully. However, he was just out of earshot and didn't hear the message. Fortunately, since he knows Zoe is in town with Kaylee and Mal, Wash doesn't have any motive to go anywhere other than back to his bridge. Which is what he does, and is mildly surprised to find Book on the bridge when he arrives there.

"So preacher man," Wash says with a good natured laugh, "I know it's been several years since my last confession but there's no need to make a housecall."

Wash takes his seat and checks some readings. Unless Book is in his seat, in which case Wash politely and patiently waits for him to vacate it. Smiling.

..END MOVE

------------------------------
"Hang on, travelers..."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:Says to Thorne:"All the trouble with Reavers and Alliance patrols weren't part of any deal I agreed to. Your brother-in-law can kiss my ass! We're renegotiating our cut now. No one said I'd be hauling YOU to New Hikido! I want a bigger cut o'profits or same in trade. I hit the road now, I'm taking your front teeth with me. Now stop jacking me around with your mealy-mouthed tough talk. I'm here to do business, gorrammit!! Lets do some business. Now...what's our pay again?"END TURN.

OOC:Corrected the Rowan entry.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

Staying calm, Thorne recognises Mal's type, and decides how to play him.

"Son, your problems up to now aren't my concern. If you don't take my load, your future problems aren't my concern either...and you will have future problems. That sleeze at the bar in the blue jacket is an Alliance narc, and he's been comming someone regular since you came in. If we make a deal it's in my interest to get you out of here in one piece. Otherwise I'll just sit back and watch the fun. But if you deliver my load, and me with it, don't worry, I'll make it worth your while.

Thorne sits back and crosses his arms.

EOM

OOC: and off to bed.


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn


everyone else seems to be either leaving Serenity or going about their business.

Inara takes on last look at the seemingly ill Simon and goes down the ramp onto the dock.

She makes her way into the center of the city-from shabby neighborhoods where she clutches her shawl about herself in fear, and the locals look at her as if she's grown an extra eye--to more genteel sectors where the inhabitants look down their noses at her, assuming a woman unescorted must be up to no good...in a way, she was.

Finally she finds herself in the courtyard of Hara Central Medical Facility.

She enters the sliding door, and a rush of cool, sterilized air hits her. All around there are facility employees, bustling about doing the jobs they are meant to...

She walks up to the desk and asks if there has been a package left for Misses Wildwood. While she dressed in her shuttle, she put in a call to her contact in the facility, a Dr. Liu. He agreed to leave what she needed with the receptionist on the grounds that she pay twice the usual price, and leave quickly. Inara bristled at his rude tone, but she was quite desperate for this medication, and had no time to argue manners.

The suprised receptionist looks up from her charts, and reaches beneath the counter for the small silver box containing Inara's salvation. Before she offers it, she holds her hand out--palm up. Rolling her eyes, Inara places the small velvet pouch in the woman's hand.

"bai chi" Inara mumbles under her breath as she takes the box from the woman--more forecefully than necessary, and turns to exit the hospital.

Inara leaves the facility, and turns down one of the darker, grubbier alleys. Hands trembling, she opens the small box and retrieves the syringe and one of the brownish vials held within--the clear vials are for after. She readies the syringe, drawing a few cc's of the amber liquid into the chamber.

She pulls her clothing aside to bare one pale hip, and jabs the needle deep into the muscle. She lays her head back against the wall of the alley, and sucks her breath in sharply between her teeth.

The rush of the narcotic makes her blood sing--her back arches as tingles of pleasure run up it. She smiles lazily, her lips curving up softly. She slowly removes the needle from her flesh and returns it to it's case. This had cost her extra too. The doctor was a bit of a hard sell on the coagulants she needed--they were a much-needed drug here. The narcotic was easy, if expensive-she just couldn't bear the nausea and insomnia that came with the coagulants...not without this soother.

Inara draws up another syringe with the clear liquid and injects herself with it as well.

Righting her clothing, and stowing her silver box in a hidden pocket, Inara heads back toward the edge of town--and Serenity.


have no place I can be...since I found Serenity

End Inara's turn



translation: bai chi--idiot



Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[Motions to Zoe to take care of the Alliance 'narc. Turns to Thorne with a growing sense of dislike.] Says to Thorne:"Only thing I give for free is ass-kickings. You sour this deal, I'll turn your world into a raging sea! This better be made worth my while, mister. Reckon it looks like you got youself a transport ship." [Mal, feeling his darker nature showing, masters himself quickly.]END TURN.

OOC:Wanted to explore Mal's dark side. Hope it wasn't too heavy.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge


Book looks over his shoulder at Wash to answer at the same time another transmission comes in.

2nd underling again "Confirm ID."
3rd underling "Positive, the outlander is Thorne. I've checked Thorne discretely with infrared eye scans to be sure."

(beat) Book stands up and moves to the gun locker near the back of the bridge.

2nd underling "Stay put. Reinforcements which were on the way to receive those crates are being diverted to you first."
3rd underling "Understood."

Book snaps his eyes to Wash, looking hard.

"The Captain and Zoe and are in serious trouble. Alliance's got something going on nearby, not sure what, but it's not gonna come to any good and our are folk gonna get caught up in it. Where's Jayne?"


OOC --(in the faint distance of the future, Mal's voice floats through the void)-- "why can't things ever go according to the gorram plan?"

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

..WASH's MOVE

Wash shrugs when Book asks about Jayne.

"Ain't seen him since we all met in the cargo bay. Do ya know where this bar was they were talking about? Just gimmie a plain revolver. Something small that won't bring about suspicion. This is Alliance we're talking about. Just aiming a gun in their general direction is cause for a hangin'."

Wash follows Book's lead.

..END MOVE

OOC: I recall a message awhile back where the player doing Jayne said he'd be outta pocket, so maybe we should move forward without him and if he can come back he can like be our backup or somethin'.

Oh. And I'm goin' to bed so I'll try to check back in sometime maybe late tomorrow.

------------------------------
"Hang on, travelers..."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge

Book to Wash

"Cap'n and Zoe didn't take a radio into the bar with them did they? Did Kaylee go into the bar with them? (beat) Too many questions, I know, I'm sorry son. No need to answer what ya can't possibly know."

(Another pause)

"I know you're gonna want to rush off headstrong and try to save your wife, but I want you to think. What happened last time you wanted to save Zoe from trouble?"

Book looks down the hallway

Book calling down the hallway

"Jayne.... JAYNE!"

Turning back to Wash

"We can't wait. I've got a plan, but it won't account for almost everything... (beat) all it may count for is you being able to land this ship on a dime, cause we're probably gonna need Serenity before this is over."

Book picks up the radio he wishes the Captain had taken.

"I wish Jayne were here... this city's about to come to a boil."

Book prays that this isn't the last time he will find Serenity

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

OOC: Still out of town for funeral arangements but will try to log on from other computers when able.

Jayne's turn:

"Ain't much use wishin' shep, yur prayers are already answered" says Jayne as he pulls back the bolt on Vera and lets it slam into place with a resounding metalic "ca'chang".

"Been down in the bay, overhaulin' some o' that stuff we done took off Niska's men. Made a few refits to that older mule we had down there an' I think I done got it runnin' and ready for some action."

"Now then, if'in ya' follow me down I'll show ya' the new toy"

Jayne slings Vera across his back by the shoulder strap and heads down to the cargo area.

PLOT POINT: Due to the fact that I will be unable to post reliable updates to Jayne's activities untill after the funneral, Jayne has moddified the broken mule (now fixed and running) with two belt fed machine guns taken from Niska's assault force. It's a bit of a patch job for now, not too pretty to look at but, it will tear things up.


Also... I can kill you with my brain...

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Man, I've been here, but haven't replied much. Okay...
_________
River is in the infirmary. She doesn't leave, for she is afraid for Simon. Instead, she tries to help him. She tries to put various medicines away.
_________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

Thorne smiles to himself. He likes Mal's nerve, but realizes his machismo is likely to get them all killed, so he decides to offer a carrot. He's been around here quite a while, and nothing goes through the Hara docks he doesn't know about. He also realizes any effort to get Mal will draw down dock security.

"Listen, boy. Ask the young lady to leave old Smitty alone. Purple-bellies aren't at the top of my Christmas list, but the one's around here are good. If they think they're burned they'll come for you, and they'll come hard..two or three squads with heavy weapons and body armor. Probably a couple of combat cars and maybe air cover. If you want to commit suicide, this is an appropriate place, but I'd hate to see the bar shot up.

If you really want to excercise your shooters, There's a stop we can make on the way back to your ship. Plenty of chance for gunplay, but less of getting smeared, and a nice haul. Just comm your little buddies and have them meet you at Alliance dock 4. Sooner would be better. The Federales are right outside."

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move:

Keeping an ear on the conversation and an eye out for trouble, ZOE notes the Fed just as THORNE points him out. Gets MAL's signal to 'take care of' the Fed and immediately hears THORNE's suggestion to let the Fed sit. Pulls MAL aside for a private convo.

To MAL (quietly): "Hate to say it, Sir, but I gotta agree. Probably not be our best move to take out a Fed in the middle of a crowded bar on an Alliance planet. We've already seen more trouble on this run than we generally like. Let's just load the cargo, Thorne if we have to, and head on back to Persephone."

Keeps an eye out for any further trouble while patiently waiting for MAL's response, one hand at the concealed radio at her hip and the other resting on the stock of her rifle.

End Move.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge

Book hears the sound of Jayne's favorite gun being cocked, turns and breathes a sigh of relief.

Book to Jayne

"Well, at least you're always ready for action. Alliance's comin' down right on top of Mal and Zoe, but I don't think they took a radio."

Book looks to the storage cupboard and notices that indeed what he thought was a radio was in fact only a radio case. The Cap'n and Zoe did take a radio with them.

"ahhh good, this makes things much easier."

Book whispers softly into the radio he's holding while looking at Wash

"Zoe?"

Book waits for a response on the radio while following Jayne down to the rennovated second mule.

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move (Supplemental):

Before MAL can answer her, ZOE hears her radio beep. She gives MAL another significant look and responds:

"Talk to me, Shepherd."

End Move.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn, supplement
Inara returns to the docks, and begins perusing the various items for sale at vendors scattered about.

She buys a stacking doll for River and some honeysuckle perfume and hairpins for Kaylee. She finds some fabric to make some dresses to replace the ones she's lost.

Inara remains on the dock, awaiting the return of the others
End Inara's supplement

ooc--Inara will remain here until someone talk to her or calls for her--waiting to see what my best position is



Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Just outside the bridge

Book stops short as he hears Zoe's voice,

"Talk to me, Shepherd."

Abandoning going down to the cargo bay, Book turns and calls Jayne back. Quickly walking back up the stairs to the bridge, he sits back in the tactical chair and looks over at Wash in the pilot chair. Book transmits:

"There's Alliance watching your every move in that bar. Not sure if they're monitoring this transmission. They've ID'd Mal and the fellow your sitting with, Thorne. Reinforcement troops are arriving... they got something important going on nearby, but not before they cause you all a whole lot of trouble."

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move:

Hears BOOK's message; looks at MAL to confirm that he also heard.

To BOOK: "We've marked the Fed inside. Thorne seems to think they'll let us alone if we don't move on 'em. Standby."

Looks questioningly at MAL.

To MAL: "What's our move, Sir?"

End Move.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Roaming around, looking for parts.

After much haggling with the various parts vendor's she found, Kaylee heads back to Serenity with the loaded up mule. She's very happy, as she was able to get everything and a little something extra to tinker around with, for the coin that Mal gave her.

Slowly making her way through the tents & shops near the dock, she spies Inara wandering around.

"Hey, 'Nara!" she calls when she's close enough. "You out doin' some shoppin'? Guess you'd have to replace your stuff that's gone missin'."

Pulls up next to Inara and cuts the engine.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's move:
To establish what she's been doing all this time.

It took a bit to get back to the storage facility on foot from the Hara Cary. Who knew there would be only two places on Hara that had billiards systems at all, and only one that actually worked without shorting?

The proprietor gives a gap-toothed grin from behind the counter as he sees her approach his establishment. How his gaze swept over her and the gleam in his eye said he thought he knew exactly what she would look like out of her clothes.

Moving past him, she feels his eyes on her back as she moves off down a row of dingy little sheds. Some are standing wide open, and the ones that aren't have small red lights above the doors indicating secure status. She goes directly to the one on the end, taps in her six-digit code and steps back as the door rises. Inside are two small bags in the center of an oversized space - a small duffle and a slim attaché. Loading one onto each shoulder, she turns and leaves the door open as she heads back out. Seeing the proprietor still leering, and noting that his hands never once appeared from under the counter, she walks back out into the street and makes for the docks not two blocks away.

With ships landing every day, there has to be at least one suitable. Since she doesn't have enough currency for full passage anywhere (at least, not without dipping into her stash), that means bartering to become temporary crew. Most ships generally come in with all the crew they need, but there are times when some get the idea to leave in order to switch ships, or even settle down. Not entirely rare for a crewmember to be "escorted" off ship either. Captains can never be too sure about the folk they hire on, and bad apples had a tendency to turn up on occasion. Once she even witnessed a crewman removed by way of a pine box, and rightly so since the fella was skimming. She learned that by way of the captain when she signed on as a replacement, and figured the circumstances were legitimate.

Keeping her head down so her hair hides her face, she walks right on past the Alliance guard post and onto the docking grounds. Used to be a time when they were few and far between on Hara, before the war. Funny how governments so confident in conquest feel they have to show a strong front after the dust settles. Then again Rowan figured conquering a planet was the simple thing - hanging onto it afterward, now that would take a fair bit of high maintenance.

Tossing her hair aside again as she looks up, Rowan notes several ships have come and gone in the time she ended up spending down at the Hara Cary. One of the new arrivals, fifth one down the row, was a Firefly class, and a nice sturdy R3 to boot. Smiling softly, Rowan decides to see if her captain might be in the market for a cook, or a welding technician, tertiary systems engineer or even a cleaning woman. Spotting movement out of the corner of her eye, Rowan glances to her right, and calms some when she doesn't see more purple bellies, then looks again.

A companion would never be hard to spot in a port like this one, but this one would have been exceptional even among her own kind. Dark featured, with the flawless olive complexion that indicated Italian blended with a hint of the Asian, she is an incomparable beauty. Combined with the bearing of one who is taught how to walk, a gaze that focused on nothing yet observed everything and the warm smile of one who understands human emotion, and it's plainly obvious that this companion is unique.

And also headed straight for the Firefly.

EOM

OOC: It's a little wordy, and maybe a little dull. Not to worry, though, the spice is coming!

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's Move (Supplemental)

Rowan sees the person driving the mule is a girl with a bright smile and gregarious open demeanor that seems a little more down to earth against the companion's polished elegance. Watching the companion smile and respond, Rowan realizes quickly that these two know each other fairly well and suddenly has a stray thought. What are the chances that this Firefly is crewed entirely by women?

EOM


I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn
phew--hope I can learn to live up to Channain's writing!


Inara turns as Kaylee drives up to the docks in the mule. She takes a moment to look at the sweet girl.
Kaylee's hair is coming out of her ponytail in becoming little wisps. Her cheeks are bright red from exertion and excitement. She has her trademark grin plastered from ear to ear...she looks like sunshine incarnate. Kaylee has obviously had a profitable day--the mule is loaded down with various bits and pieces.

-----------------
"Hey, 'Nara!" she calls when she's close enough. "You out doin' some shoppin'? Guess you'd have to replace your stuff that's gone missin'."
-----------------

Inara smiles her brightest and nods to her friend:

"yes, I picked up some fabric to make a few new gowns. I will probably have some left over, and we can make a little something for you!"

"I bought you something!" Inara reaches into her bag and produces two wrapped packages...she offers them to Kaylee.

Kaylee squeals with delight and begins to tear the brown wrappers.
Kaylee: Oh 'Nara! You didn't hafta get me anything! Shiny!

As Kaylee unwraps her gifts, Inara takes a moment to look around the dock. She spots a young asian woman observing she and Kaylee closely. She has a look of intense curiousity on her face. Inara smiles at her warmly, as she is taught...though even with no companion training, she would have...this woman is one of the most lovely she's ever seen. A warmth spreads to Inara's face as she admires her. The woman's eyes meet hers--unflinching.

The woman is tall, with dark, upturned eyes and full lips. Her face is heart-shaped, her hair is long and glossy black. Her skin is smooth and glowing with health. She is dressed inconspicuously, but her confident demeanor and frank gaze make her exceptional.

Inara notices that the woman is walking directly toward she and Kaylee--not breaking her gaze.


End Inara's turn



Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Sorry, might be something different...

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

something.....different? :P

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Close to Serenity, talking to Inara on the docks.

"This stuff is great, Inara! This perfume smells so good. It reminds me of my first home...had honeysuckle vines growin' right outside my window. Some of River's seein' 'bilities musta rubbed off on ya!" Laughing, Kaylee leans over to give Inara a hug.

Kaylee notices that Inara is looking at something-or someone-over her shoulder. She turns around to look and sees a beautiful Chinese woman walking towards them, carrying two cases. "She looks determined", thinks Kaylee.

"Do you know her, 'Nara?"

As Inara shakes her head, Kaylee turns back to the woman as she approaches them.

Smiling, she asks the woman, "Hey, there! Lookin' for someone?"

End Move

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's Move:

ROWAN (to herself): The companion has AMAZING eyes.

Without breaking eye contact or her stride, Rowan moves toward the Firefly, practically to the foot of the boarding ramp. Not four feet from the companion, she pauses and lowers the duffle from her right shoulder. They spend a moment, gazing into each other eyes at first, then perusing further. Rowan wonders if a companion's skin is every bit as luscious as it looks.
-----------------------------------
Kaylee turns back to the woman as she approaches them. Smiling, she asks the woman, "Hey, there! Lookin' for someone?"
------------------------------------
ROWAN (unable to hold back a smile): "After a fashion - I'm looking for passage off planet, but I'm short part of the fee and wondered if your captain would be in the market for short-term crew."

The girl on the mule has a sparkling beauty all her own. Aside from luxurious hair that Rowan once would have given her left thumb for, and sharp luminous eyes, her brilliant smile has more than a thousand watts behind it - a genuine spirit refusing to be contained.

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Just outside the ramp of Serenity

"Hmmm...depends on what ya can offer, I guess. The Captain'll be back soon. I'm Kaylee, and this is Inara. What's your name?"

Kaylee smiles at the woman, pushing the wisps of hair off her face. She manages to leave a thin smear of grease across her forehead.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's Move:

ROWAN (to herself) If she could be any cuter, I can't see how.

ROWAN to Kaylee: "I'm Rowan. And I can provide just about any service he needs."

She lifts an eyebrow slightly to acknowledge the companion's direction.

ROWAN to Inara: "Not the kind that would infringe on your work, but I have some experience in all manner of tasks from cooking to ship-board computers."

Rowan scans the Firefly and makes note of the name painted on the cockpit.

ROWAN (to herself): Serenity. Nice.

ROWAN: "This is an R3, right? How long since you got to do an upgrade?"

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Simon's Move
LOCATION - INFIRMARY
Just minutes after the rest of the crew goes their own way.

Simon sits hunched over on the Cyrocase as River busies herself around the infirmary. He can't close his eyes without seeing horrific scenes of torture flow by seemingly without end.

Long thin glass ampoules filled with a green liquid inserted in a mans unirary tract and smashed...

The slow methodical flaying of deltoid muscle off of a shackled & fettered young female, who's screams have nearly ruptured her throat...

An Achilles tendon being pulled out of a males calf like a packing strap cutting through cardboard and sounding like a grisly shripping sound of torn velcro.

And continuously through these gut wrenching images and screams a soft and strange chuckle floats - a laugh that is somehow insidiously familiar

SIMON
softly almost inaudable
"River ... mei-mei ... help me..."

EOM

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn


Still holding the newcomer's jet black eyes with her own deep brown, Inara is lost in them for a moment. They speak of exotic pleasures and secretive trysts...they also are hard as stone, and a bit colder. A moment before their gazes break, the eyes soften and she sees something there....but then it is gone. Inara shudders as the woman turns to speak to Kaylee. Inara hears her mention her name: Rowan....the tree of protection and sanctuary....quite fitting indeed. She looked like she could protect herself--maybe a few others too.

------------------------------------
KAYLEE: "Hey, there! Lookin' for someone?"
------------------------------------
WOMAN: (unable to hold back a smile): After a fashion - I'm looking for passage off planet, but I'm short part of the fee and wondered if your captain would be in the market for short-term crew.

she lifts an eyebrow slightly to acknowledge the companion's direction.

ROWAN to Inara: Not the kind that would infringe on your work, but I have some experience in all manner of tasks from cooking to ship-board computers.
--------------------------------------

Inara tucks her chin down and smiles--"Very kind of you to consider my work, Rowan...but I don't service those aboard this ship. At least not in any professional capacity"

Inara's eyes twinkle--Mal's face flashes in her subconcious--she feels a small pang of guilt.

Will you come with us? I'm sure the Capitan will be back soon, the least we can do is introduce you to our dear Serenity.

End Inara's turn

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Quote:

---

something.....different? :P

---

It was something, now it no longer is.
__________
River is sorting medicines, and she finds a bottle. It's one she takes. She hands it to Simon.

It'll make the voices go away. You said it would. Ge-ge, I'm here for you.
___________
Sorry for confusing people!
............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Still outside Serenity

"Rowan, huh? What a shiny name! Yeah, Serenity's an R3. Haven't had much chance to upgrade NavSats, though. Workin' on the engines right now. Had a bit of a rough ride comin' into Hera, and my girl's banged up some. No worries, though. I got everythin' I need right here to fix her up good and proper."

Kaylee pats the boxes behind her.

"You got a good eye, Rowan. Hope the Cap'n says it's ok for you ta come with us. New people, new stories. Shiny!"

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Simon's Move
LOCATION - INFIRMARY
Just minutes after the rest of the crew goes their own way.

Instead of taking the bottle Simon clutches River to him in a bear hug, using her touch to ground himself to the real world

SIMON
takes a shuddering breath
"I never knew ... what they did to you ... what type of human animals live ... Niska ... The Academy butchers ... just for the sake of pain"

strokes River's hair and buries his face in her shoulder.

EOM

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_________
River is comforting Simon now (For a change).

Shh, shh, ge-ge.

She strokes Simon's hair, and drops the bottle.
_________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's Move:
Location: Outside Serenity

Rowan chuckles over the girl's enthusiasm, admiring her spunk and envying her a bit for her innocence.

ROWAN: "Sorry to hear about that. I'm a good hand with a wrench too, if you need one. As to the Nav Sats, I could offer at least a stage 5 upgrade."

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Simon's Move
LOCATION - INFIRMARY

Upon hearing the bottle hit the ground, Simon looks up into River's eyes and seems to be startled at the role reversal. Still Holding her, he leans over and gently retrieves the bottle

SIMON
takes a steadying breath this time
"Thank you meimei ... I'll need a hypo, can you please get it for me?"

River reluctant to release Simon, attempts to snatch a sealed hypo from the just-out-of-reach work tray, nearly upsetting both the tray and Simon's perch on the Cryrobox. At the clatter River quickly looks back to Simon who, while blanched and aged looking, gives her a reassuring grin. He takes the hypo and tries to prepares it with shaking hands. River gently takes the hypo and bottle and expertly loads it and looks at Simon with questioning eyes.

SIMON
"Yes, it might be better if you do it, I know you can"

River swabs his carotid artery and efficiently injects the medicine. Simon closes his eyes and goes limp over the Cryobox

EOM

OOC
I am bushed ... last post fer awhile!
"Remember, there is only ONE absolute - There ARE NO absolutes!!!"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan's Move:
Location: Outside Serenity

ROWAN (to herself): I lingered too long, let the companion see too much. My fault - haven't seen anyone like her since I left the core. Like finding a swatch of red velvet in a stack of burlap.
------------------------------
Inara: Will you come with us? I'm sure the Captain will be back soon, the least we can do is introduce you to our dear Serenity.
------------------------------
ROWAN (hesitant): "As I can't quite pay the whole fee, I'll admit I'm leery about boarding without the captain's word. I've been on ships with captains who didn't take too kindly to the idea that I was on for barter. Nearly got jettisoned out an airlock once. Until he tasted my hot and sour soup, that is."

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne:

Zoe To MAL: "What's our move, Sir?"

Thorne has heard all Zoe had to say. He approves of Zoe. Not only is she a looker, she also doesn't seem to be one to go off half-cocked, unlike her hot-head boss. If he can get these kids out of here in one piece, maybe he can teach them enough to make them useful. He decides to soften up a bit, to see if the situation can be salvaged.

"Girl makes sense, Cap'n. Look, I admit we got off to a bad start, but we can all make out like bandits if we work together. The fee for my cargo plus that little extra helping over at dock 4 can keep you flying for quite a while. So come on. Besides, this little lady's [nods at Zoe] too pretty to get all shot up. What you say?

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

________
As River injects the fluids into Simon, she says:

Time to go to sleep.

She hugs him, then goes out where Kaylee and Inara are meeting Rowan.

Nine-ball.
_________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL: Says to Zoe:"I want you to go over and start a fight with that Alliance narc. Get some pushing and shoving going. We'll duck on out the back and lose these Alliance pricks in the confusion, dong ma?"

Says to Thorne:"Cai bu shi. Looks like you got yourself a deal, wo de tien ah. We'll meet up at Alliance dock 4 in, say, two hours? I want to load up 50 cases of Tequilla to use as our cover story 'case we get boarded. Oh, one final thing. I ain't your boy, and you ain't my daddy, Jack!"

[Clicks on radio mike.] Says to Serenity crew:"Get ready for some action. Zoe and I are heading back. Deal went ok. We're in business! Next stop:New Hikido!"


[Leaves bar with Zoe and heads back to Serenity at a brisk pace.]

END TURN.

OOC:Way to go with the RPing all! Very entertaining.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Slowly working her way up the ramp of Serenity.

"Oh, hey, River! How's the doc? Sure looked bad before I left. You been keepin' watch?"

Kaylee looks back at Rowan.

"Well, come on, silly! Time's a'wastin'. Oh, this is River, another one of our crew. She takes a little gettin' used to, but she's really sweet, and you'll figure her out right enough."

Kaylee drives the mule up into the cargo bay, Inara & Rowan trailing behind her. She parks the mule and starts to unload it.

"Hey, River! Wanna gimme a hand with this? Got alot a stuff ta go down ta the engine room."

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne's move:

Thorne watches Zoe start a small brawl. As Mal and Zoe sneak, not so inconspicuously as they believe, out the back door, he thinks:
[Lord save me from heroes. If they'd have just listened I could've gotten them out of here with no one the wiser, plus tied up half the Feds in town waiting for them to come out. Now they're gonna run into that squad out back and get the shooting match that boy's looking for. Time to go to work, I guess.]

Thorne rapidly climbs the back stairs to the second floor. As he goes, he removes the hollowpoints from his revolver and replaces them with eight new rounds, each carrying a "ZZZ" etched on the cartridge head.

Reaching the second floor balcony, Thorne takes a quick look over the rail at Mal and Zoe walking briskly towards the docks. He also sees the squad of armored Feds waiting to ambush them.

He thinks [Work, work, work. Work, work, work. Work, work, work.] as he rises again, draws his revolver, and fires eight muted shots, seemingly without aiming. The eight Fed squaddies slap at various unprotected patches of skin, and collapse to the ground...out cold.

Mal amd Zoe continue down the street, never seeing their sleeping ambushers.

Thorne goes back down stairs, where the fight has calmed down, and orders a beer. He has a couple of hours to kill before the meet at dock 4.

EOM


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL:[As they're heading back to Serenity, Mal lets out a laugh.]

Says to Zoe:"I think I got the best of that good old boy back there! Ha! Ha! We're going to make money hand over fist on this caper, eh Zoe?"

[Looks over at Zoe with a smile and winks slyly.]

END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_________
River goes to help Kaylee, and passes by Rowan. She says to Rowan:

Nine ball.

She then says to Kaylee:

Simon is asleep. It was his time.

She picks up some stuff, and heads off to the engine room.
__________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge

Book waits for an answer from Zoe, but silence tells him volumes. He waits and listens, eventually going to the storage locker, removing another radio and tossing it to Wash.

"Keep an ear out for more Alliance troop transmissions Wash, things went quiet real quick. Keep Zoe and the Cap'n apprised. I'm going down to check things out."

Book leaves the bridge and goes down by way of the aft stairs. He stops by his room and pockets his ID card, then moves to the door of the common room. He stops as he see's Kaylee and Inara on the end of the lowered cargo bay door talking to a slight woman whom Book thinks he recognizes. Looking beyond them, Book breathes easy as Mal and Zoe, heads together discussing, come into sight around a far corner. Book turns and goes back to his room to think.

Book to himself

"That went a little too easy."

Em

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne's move.

Thorne sits at a table in the bar, doing serious damage to a plate of filly fillet, haricort vert, and fried yucca. He runs through a mental list of what he'll need to take with him on Serenity:
[Let's see. The Barrett M-210 for long range work. A shotgun's good...doesn't overpenetrate in a ship. Couple of spare handguns. Ammo, including the specials. Level IV back & brest. And rope...If you don't have it you're sure to need it. The usual spices. Wonder if anyone on that tub can cook? Probably not. Now what did the kid say? Tequila, yeah! Toss in a couple cases of limes, at least. Marguritas away! Hah! (pause) I'll need one or two after we clear the Valley. Pray to God this is the last time I ever have to go back there.]



EOM



"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move:

After the short brawl, ZOE heads out the back with MAL toward the ship. As they walk, she keeps watch and a hand on her rifle. At one point, she thinks she hears a body fall. She looks around, sees nothing, but takes her alertness up to battle-ready.

MAL says: "I think I got the best of that good old boy back there! Ha! Ha! We're going to make money hand over fist on this caper, eh Zoe?"

He winks, and she looks at him like he's a bit out of his mind.

"Cap'n, we get word that not only is the place crawlin' with Feds, but they've IDed us, and there's no one out the back waitin' to haul us in? That getaway didn't seem just a little too easy to you?"

Sees BOOK poke his head out and then disappear back into the ship. Notices KAYLEE driving the mule up the ramp with INARA and another woman following on foot.

"Looks like there'll be more to tell on this end, too."

End Move.


~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Book's Room then the Common Area

Book stows away the radio and small gun he was carrying, again takes his Bible in hand and returns from his room into the common area with a shepherdly presence.

Noticing that none of the others have yet come back to the common area, Book furrows his brow, sits down in one of the many cushioned chairs and begins to pretend to read.

In his mind he wonders how Zoe and Mal could have escaped the Alliance? ...indeed what happened to the Alliance? and where is their back-up now?

Book looks up to the infirmary and another question arises in his mind ...what did Simon glean from Niska?

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan’s Move:
Location: Outside Serenity

ROWAN (to herself): "I think it’s been ten years since I smiled, let alone genuinely laughed. Did it ever simply flow out like that? Maybe once – one day, like a flash in the pan. Lord, it all happened so fast. Did the cause destroy it all?

Rowan can’t help it – there is just no other way to respond to such sparkle except with a smile.

ROWAN: "Well, can't very well refuse such a shiny invitation, now can I?"

Glancing at the companion, the two share a look of mutual agreement before the companion gestures again toward Serenity’s cargo hold. Lifting the duffle back to her shoulder, Rowan looks upward at Serenity’s profile before turning her focus to the boarding ramp. She’s halfway up the ramp before she feels someone approaching from behind. Looking over her right shoulder, she sees two individuals on their way toward the ship like they’re on a mission from the Almighty. The woman is striking, with the kind of dark beauty that would have launched ships in the ancient history of Earth-that was. The fella beside her, matching her stride for stride, carries himself like a man who knows his own mind and isn’t afraid to go for what he wants.

Both of them are wearing brown coats. Hers is lighter, more khaki, but his is obviously an officer’s coat direct from the Independent uniform series from the early, more prosperous years of the war. So not on any mission other than likely outrunning some trouble with the local Alliance. Rolling her eyes upward, she sends a nasty look toward the Almighty.

ROWAN (to The Great Whoever): I’m shipping out on a vessel crewed by Independents. Frankly? Could have done without the ironical omniscient sense of humor -- thanks!

EOM

OOC: Keep forgetting to end my move!

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

..WASH's MOVE

Wash goes to follow Book but he forgets that he put the gun down when Book gave him the radio. So he goes back to get his gun, and then he drops his radio. When he picks it back up, he hears on his radio..

Voice1: (sounds out of breath) "..reporting in. Got Reynolds. He didn't put up much of a fight."
Voice2: (garbled) "That's a neg-- *static* Reynolds *static* --my sites. They're at--"
*static*
Voice3: (deep scratchy voice. sounds like a commander of some sort) "Sargeant get off the line."
Voice1: "But Sir he's right here. We got Reynolds!"
Voice3: "That's not Reynolds you idiot! You're in the wrong bar!"
Voice2: *static* "Looks like Thorne. *static* --with Thorne."
Voice3: "You positive corporal?"
Voice2: *static* "--hundred percent affirm sir."
Voice3: "ABORT! Clear channel!" *static*
Voice2: "Aborting capture mission." *static* "Operation" *static* "Is a go."

Wash looks at his radio in disbelief. Then quickly moves out of bridge down hallway looking for Book, who's already moved on.

"Book! Hey, wait up! Did you hear this?"

..END MOVE

OOC: Assume when Wash catches up with Book that Wash relays what he heard to Book. If Book had his radio on, Book did NOT hear the same thing Wash heard. For more clarification please ask me questions in the OOC thread.


------------------------------
"Hang on, travelers..."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Taking supplies & parts down to the engine room.

"Thanks for the help, River! Never can find a man ta help out when ya need one. Hey, did you call Rowan "Nine Ball"? Do you know her?"

Continues on to engine room with River.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Common Area outside the Infirmary

Book, still pretending to be engrossed in his reading, looks up with concern as Wash runs up to him, radio in hand and a look of crazed uncertainty on his face.

Wash paces in front of Book, the radio almost flying out of his gesturing hands. Book stands and tries to calm Wash, taking the radio from him and setting it on the table. As Wash relays the incoming transmission to Book, (who had left his radio in his room,) Book goes quickly to the aft stairway.

Book to Wash

"We need to get this info to the captain. It sounds like Alliance troops may have captured our contact, Thorne."

voice dropping low as he continues up the stairs.
"Things are starting to make some sense."

raising his voice again
"Was there any more to the transmission?"

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne: move

Thorne looks on as three guys in civvies jump some tourist wearing a brown jacket and haul him out the door. None of his business. He finishes his Key Lime pie and goes upstairs to his room to pack. As he throws weapons, clothes, and a wire whisk into a duffel bag, he trys to figure how to decoy some of the Feds away from Dock 4, now that Mal has screwed up Plan A. Thorne has to live here after this deal goes down, and folk offing a bunch of Feds makes things a mite uncomfortable.

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan’s Move
Location: on the boarding ramp, just after spotting Mal and Zoe

-------------------------
River goes to help Kaylee, and passes by Rowan. She says to Rowan:

Nine ball.
-------------------------
Rowan starts violently and turns around to her right just in time to see the girl pass. Little bit of a thing, a waif really. Light on her feet, there was a dancer’s grace in her movements, and a boldness of innocence. Young too. Watching her help Kaylee, she sees a shy smile and figures she can’t be more than sixteen.

ROWAN (to herself): What is a sweet young thing like you doing out here? And how in nine hells do you know I play billiards?

Then the girl looks up and Rowan finds herself starting again. They are enormous, and should have been the kind to betray any and all self-centered thoughts that careened through a teenage mind. Instead they are shielded--showing nothing--and intuitive--seeing everything. Staring right into her and through her, Rowan can’t help but feel that for the second time in her life, someone else knew her innermost thoughts and every secret she has been harboring for the past decade.

ROWAN (to herself): How much can she know?

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

_________
River says to Kaylee:

But, I don't...she won the nine ball game...

River almost looks confused.
__________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn


Inara leads the way into Serenity's cargo hold. She steps aside as Kaylee drives the mule up the ramp and begins unloading it with the help of River.

She glances back at Rowan, and notices her looking back down into the docks. She glances out into the bright scene, Serenity's cool shadow making the day seem all the more dazzling.

Zoe and Mal are trotting toward the ramp at a brisk pace. Mal with a look of smug good humor, Zoe with her usual "business" face--utterly impenetrable and unreadable. It seems, at least to Mal's thinking, that the deal went well.

Inara smiles inwardly at the broad grin on Mal's face as he enters the bay. He looks at her curiously.



End Inara's turn

--edited to fit later post

ooc ok I tried to narrate a little--yell at me if I messed anyone's plan up, and I'll rewrite *ducks*





Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MALS TURN:

Says to Zoe:"See. There you go again with the negative vibes. We got somethin' those gorram Feds don't. We're so damn pretty! Now don't worry that pretty little head o' yours over shoulda beens and coulda beens. Lets focus on all that coin we're gonna be getting after this job is over. Juh hen sh guh kwai luh duh jean jan!"

[Mal approaches Serenity and sees Inara and Rowan in cargo bay. Mal looks to Inara with a curious look on his face.]

Says to Inara:"A new client?"


END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne's turn:

Thorne props his duffel by the back door and walks over to the bar. Smitty, the Fed snitch, is sporting a shiner and a split lip. Thorne decides Smitty can create his diversion and clean up some bad business at the same time.

"Hey Smitty, you look like crap. Have one on me. What'd you say to that little gal caused her to hand you your ass?"

"Thanks, Rosie. I could use a drop. Don't know what the slut's trouble was. Just hauled off and slugged me for no good reason. If I'd a been ready I could'a taken her. Hell. You were talkin' to 'em. What was that about?

"Oh, my brother-in-law, the "interstellar entrepreneur", sent 'em to me for a cargo, but they're looking for the kind of stuff an honest trader doesn't sell. I shuffled 'em along to Elmore's. The whole lot of 'em can get kraunched until their brains run out their ears, for all I care."

"Always said you're an honest man, Rosie. Just ask anyone. Never would deal in that junk."

"Well thanks, Smitty. That means a lot to me. Gotta go now. You take care if you see them runners again. They were armed to the teeth and looked pretty trigger-happy."

Before Thorne even gets to the back door, he can hear Smitty babbling into his comm. "Yeah. They're on their way to Elmore's. Sure I'm sure. Reliable source. They're packin' heat and not afraid to use it."

Thorne loves it when a plan comes together. Even though the Feds won't find anyone at Elmore's, they'll be drawn off the docks, and they'll probably take the opportunity and rough him up a bit for their trouble. Dirt should be cleaned up whenever possible.

EOM


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Inara's turn, supplemental

Inara's lips part slightly in shock at Mal's frank question. It's as close as she gets to slack-jawed suprise.

Why no, Capitan. I wasn't planning on Rowan becoming a client of mine, but who's to say? Certainly not you. I'm sure you weren't prying into the legal affairs of a registered companion, now were you?

glances significantly at Rowan

I will be in my shuttle, Rowan, if you would like to come for some tea. I am sure we have much to discuss.

Inara nods her head to Rowan, and smiles serenely at Mal before heading up the stairs to her shuttle

Inara's heart flutters with the minute look of jealousy on Mal's face at that last statement.

End Inara's supplement

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL'S TURN:

[Gives Inara a 'well, la-dee-da' look. Staring hungrily after her as she ascends stairs.]

Yells to Inara:"Oh, by the way, not meanin' to intrude on your affairs, but I'll be gettin' my shirt back: when?!"

[Turns to Zoe.] Says:"Why don't you see to getting us underway to make our appointment with Thorne?"

[Looks at Rowan.]Says:"Well Miss. I see you've met some o' my crew. Is there something I can do you for?"

END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move:

Heads up to the bridge looking for WASH and JAYNE, to clue them in on the next step of the plan. As she goes, hears INARA's invitation to ROWAN and notices the almost defiant look on INARA's face. Also sees MAL's not-so-subtle reaction, grins and shakes her head like an indulgent big sister.

To herself: "Those two..."

A little alarmed at finding only JAYNE on the bridge, ZOE calls over the ship-wide comm...

"WASH head on up to the bridge, we got some plannin' to do before we leave this rock."

When WASH arrives on the bridge with BOOK in tow, ZOE fills them in on the details.

"We made the meet with this THORNE. Seems we're to take the man on as a passenger in addition to the cargo. We're meetin' THORNE at Dock 4 in two hours for a little side job he's got to sweeten the pot a bit."

Turns to JAYNE: "JAYNE, you and I'll start gettin' ready for the job at Dock 4."

Turns to WASH: "KAYLEE's back with the parts she needs and another possible passenger to boot. Cap'n wants 50 cases of tequila on board to throw off any questionin' by the Feds. Take the mule and get what we need as quick as you can, then get Serenity ready to head out as soon as we finish this side job."

Turns to BOOK: "Shepherd, I'd appreciate it if you could see your way clear to make up a bunk for THORNE in the passenger dorm. And maybe one for this ROWAN. Cap'n's talkin' to her now, might be she's comin' with us."

Looks around at all three: "Any questions?"

End Move.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Bridge

Book leads the way up the stairs, but he is overtaken by Wash as they both hear Zoe calling out his name. Book follows Wash onto the bridge, listens to Zoe explain the situation and then nods.

Book to Zoe

"I'm sure I can manage to help get the passengers settled Zoe... but tell me, how did you escape Alliance troops?"

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Zoe's Move (Supplemental):

To BOOK: "Went out the back in the brawl that grew outta my pickin' a fight with the Fed they had inside. Cap'n's idea. Sumthin' ain't sittin' right with me about how easy we got out the back, but I ain't 'bout to look that gift horse in the mouth."

End Move.

~A~

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

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move Supplemental

Book to Zoe

"Then we both have the same uneasy feeling. Wash heard something on the radio about Thorne, but we're unsure what it means."

Book goes to the door of the bridge, then turns back to Zoe.

"We need to keep an extra close eye on this Thorne... and the other passenger might not be just coincidence. I hate to sound untrusting, but we've dealt with one shady passenger after another."

Book turns to leave.

"I'll go set those new passenger rooms up near mine, right now."

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Rowan’s Move:
Location: Serenity’s Boarding ramp, on the way inside.

-------------------------
River says to Kaylee:
But, I don't...she won the nine ball game...
River almost looks confused.
-------------------------

ROWAN (to herself) The cue stick case.

Touching the black leather strap crossing her chest that secured the case diagonally across her back, Rowan relaxes. If the girl is living on the ship, she has to have seen a pool game in one of the ports once or twice. That has to be it. Someone said something once about space dementia – how it can cause paranoid delusions at the drop of a hat. Rowan smiles at herself – at what Kaylee would call silliness - realizing she has been in space long enough to have gotten more than a little delusional. Not that there certainly isn’t reason for it, but to suspect that even 16 year-old girls are agents for the Alliance? That is a just a little over the top.

-------------------------
Inara: I will be in my shuttle, Rowan, if you would like to come for some tea. I am sure we have much to discuss.
Inara nods her head to Rowan, and smiles serenely at Mal before heading up the stairs to her shuttle.

Mal: [Gives Inara a 'well, la-dee-da' look. Staring hungrily after her as she ascends stairs.]
-------------------------

Rowan accepts the companion’s generous invitation with a single nod of her own. Curious, she turns to look at the fella in the Independent brown coat and decides she’s now in the presence of Serenity’s captain, who also happens to be the companion’s—Inara’s landlord. It also isn’t lost on her at all that under the guise of aggravating him, Inara is also flirting shamelessly, which, if Rowan understands the occupation correctly, is not something they normally have to do. Not so very different from the kind of flirtation Rowan herself implements when she’s hustling a mark.

And then there’s the look in the captain’s eye. The kind of yearning that goes beyond a man’s basic attraction to the elegant sexuality suggested by a companion. No, there is something running much deeper in this one, and Inara chooses to respond to it by trying her best to put him off.

ROWAN (to herself): That is what I would definitely call interesting. Now what, I wonder, would happen if these two just said to the ‘verse with it and gave each other a real chance?

Thinking briefly of Xiang, Rowan swallows back a quick sharpness in her throat as the captain speaks.

-------------------------
Mal: [Looks at Rowan.]Says: "Well Miss. I see you've met some o' my crew. Is there something I can do you for?"
-------------------------

Rowan gives him a half smile.

ROWAN: "Might be something I can do you for, captain. If you are - captain, that is.

EOM

I draw, therefore I am
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Passenger Area

Book makes up a room for each of the new passengers. He decides to set up things for Rowan, (whom he has yet to meet) next to Simon's room. (indicated on the map with an R) Book sets up Thorne's room across the hall from himself. (indicated on the map with a T)

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Kaylee's Move
Location: Engine Room

Kaylee thanks River for helping her carry supplies back to her lair.

"Why don't you go check on Simon, River? Make sure he's still sleeping."

As Kaylee begins to putter around, putting stuff away, taking stuff out, she thinks about how she wound up here. The Captain sure was nice to offer her a job doing what she was born for.

Almost without effort, she's back on her parent's farm, arguing with her dad. She's all of 8 years old.

"Dad, the thing's not gonna work. It doesn't like what ya done to it."

"Kaylee-girl, what in the Sam Hill do ya mean? Gorram thing needs a'couple whacks wit' this here hammer and she'll be right as rain."

Rolling her eyes, she replies, "Da, don' hit it, 'k? Gimme a minute."

She stands still and closes her eyes. Turning her head ever so slightly, a smile crosses her features.

Opening her eyes, she says, "Ya jus' need ta move this here dohickey to that there openin', then put some o' this stuff in tha pan there, and...see?"

The machine starts to hum nicely as she works on it. Her father stares at her.

"Damn, Kaylee-girl, but ya got talent! Comere, sweetheart." Her dad engulfs her in a huge bear hug.

Laughing, she says, "I'll check tha other machines, too, Da, 'n see what's wrong wit' 'em."

The now-grown Kaylee smiles as she remembers the exchange. She misses her family--especially her dad--terribly, but knows that she left them in much better shape before she left. She begins to hum the song from the party on Persephone as she gets down to the business of fixing her girl.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL'S TURN:

[Aware of Rowan's scrutiny, Mal quickly hides the yearning he has for Inara, so evident on his face. Feeling a tightness in his throat, Mal clears his throat, swallows hard, and forces himself to smile at his unexpected new arrival.]

Responding to Rowan:"Oh, juh jen sh guh kwai luh duh jean jan! Sheh-sheh! Something you can do for me, huh? Yep, I'm the Captain of Serenity. I'm for sure and for certain of that."

[Mal looks at Rowan suspiciously. Thinks "Ok, what's she selling?"]

Says to Rowan:"Think I got all that I need though. I'm thinking, whatever you can do FOR me has already been done TO me by someone else, I'm sure. Now, unless there was something else, I've got a ship to run and cargo to deliver on New Hikido! So, xei-xei, but no thank you. Have a nice day bao bei!"

[Mal turns on his heel. Thinking to himself "Well, that's that! Now to pick up that cargo."]

END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Thorne’s Move:

Thorne shoulders his duffle and walks slowly toward Dock 4. He has plenty of time, and doesn’t want to draw any undue attention. “Back to the Valley again.” He thinks. “last time pays for all.”

{Flashback: Thorne and his father on the front porch of the family main house in Serenity Valley. Nighttime.}

“Roosevelt, I can’t believe this. The Alliance has given you your rank, your training, your whole life. How can you quit them and support these rebels? “

“Not rebels, father. Just folk that want control of their own futures. And the Alliance isn’t what it was when I joined. Things I’ve seen lately...I can’t stand by and let it go on”

“If army life isn’t for you any more, resign your commission and come back to the Valley. You could manage the new farms. I’m getting on and could use the help. Just come home, son.”

“I can't now, father. I’ve got this to do. When it’s over I’ll settle down and we can grow some crops together. Don’t tell the family I was here. If it gets out it’ll just bring you trouble.“

{present}

“Never even got to say goodbye. And trouble came anyway.”

Thorne walks on towards Dock 4

EOM


"Keep the Shiny side up"

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

Book's Move

Location: Common Area doorway

Satisfied that he's finally done something useful, Book leaves the common area and walks up the steps leading to the cargo bay just as
Mal says to Rowan:

"Think I got all that I need though. I'm thinking, whatever you can do FOR me has already been done TO me by someone else, I'm sure. Now, unless there was something else, I've got a ship to run and cargo to deliver on New Hikido! So, xei-xei but no thank you. Have a nice day bao bei!"

Book sighs and waits on the edge of the new-comers vision to see if she concinves the captain otherwise. Mal turns and begins to walk away.

Book thinks to himself,
"Perhaps getting a room ready for her wasn't so useful after all."

EM

NOTIFY: N  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

___________
River takes Kaylee's advice, and goes to check on Simon. She tries to move him, and she fails. Shes says over the intercom:

Help is needed. Please come.

She looks down on Simon, and says:

We are all dreaming.
____________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

MAL'S TURN

[Still waiting on Rowan's response, Mal hears River's voice come over the intercom.]

Says to River over intercom:"I'll be right there Xiao mei-mei!"

Says to Rowan:"I got a matter to attend to. Why don't you go on with your pitch while I look into this? Walk and talk, yeah?"

[Mal keeps on walking toward Infirmary without looking to see if Rowan's following.]

[Mal arrives at Infirmary, sees River and the unconcious form of Simon.]

Says to River:"Wu de ma! River, what happened to your ge ge? Was he feeling sick earlier nien ching duh?"

[Mal proceeds to check Simon's vitals. Heartbeat, pulse, respiration, etc. Having had some medic training in military.]

END TURN.

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME

________
On seeing Mal do all this she starts to laugh.

Ge-ge needed to sleep.

She stops laughing and smiling.

The voices in his head won't stop. He asked me too.
_________

............................................................................................
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Keep flyin', and remember, THEY can't take the sky from US!

NOTIFY: Y  | REPLY  | REPLY WITH QUOTE  | PERMALINK  | TOP  | HOME